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TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 JAMADA ALAWWAL 8, 1437 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Ghanem Turkey renews ‘Revenant’ Bryant feels meets Syria shelling sweeps Baftas the love in Erdogan as air raids hit with three record-setting in Ankara2 MSF hospital8 top37 gongs All-Star20 Game Govt denies any plan to Min 09º Max 25º cut wages amid deficit High Tide 05:55 & 17:16 Low Tide Moves to limit numbers of marginal laborers 11:31 40 PAGES NO: 16788 150 FILS News By B Izzak and A Saleh in brief KUWAIT: State Minister for Cabinet Affairs and acting Electricity and Water Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al- Abdullah Al-Sabah denied yesterday reports saying that National holidays the government could reduce salaries of Kuwaiti on February 25-27 employees in its attempt to finance a huge budget KUWAIT: The Cabinet during its weekly meeting yester- deficit. The minister told reporters that he did not hear day approved a memo of the Civil Service Commission anything like that and it was only raised in the local press (CSC) concerning National Day and Liberation Day holi- without any foundation. days, which will begin on Thursday, Feb 25, and run But the minister said that the government presented until Saturday, Feb 27, Minister of State for Cabinet to the National Assembly’s financial affairs committee a Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah said. draft law for a new pay scale for civil servants with the Employees at all government institutions and public hope it will be approved as part of the economic reform bodies will resume work on Sunday, Feb 28, added package. Sheikh Mohammad said the government pro- Sheikh Mohammad, who is also the Acting Minister of vided the Assembly with its vision for rationalizing Electricity and Water. expenditures and agreed to meet again on Saturday to provide the Assembly committee with specific plans and data about economic reforms. The minister said the gov- MoI to stiffen penalties ernment rationalization policy will not affect infrastruc- for traffic violations ture projects, especially in the electricity sector, because KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior announced yester- these projects are linked to ambitious housing projects. day that it plans to stiffen penalties on some traffic A key meeting was held on Sunday between the gov- violations for the safety of people and to curb road ernment and the Assembly’s financial and economic accidents. Some studies have been made by some affairs committee to discuss government plans for cut- bodies in this regard in order to make traffic laws ting subsidies and introducing economic reforms. The and their penalties compatible with reality, the min- meeting was attended by the prime minister and speak- istry’s general department of relations and security er of the Assembly and a large number of lawmakers. media said in a press statement. The department The government wants to reduce subsidies provided to stressed continued contact with different media KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets Chairman of the Kuwait Chamber of outlets, noting that approving or amending traffic Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali Thunayan Al-Ghanem and KCCI members at Seif Palace yesterday. They petrol, electricity and water without impacting low- legislations or laws will be explained through a discussed with the Amir means of financial reform as well as Kuwait’s developmental vision in light of falling income people. But lawmakers asked the government to media campaign. oil prices. — KUNA (See Page 2) implement spending cuts before taxing citizens. Continued on Page 13 Saleh hails ties with IAEA KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Anas Al- Saleh hailed yesterday relations between Kuwait and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as being firm since 1967. Addressing a seminar on nuclear applications for sustainable devel- opment in GCC countries co-orga- nized by Kuwait and the IAEA, Saleh, who doubles is also acting minister of oil, said Kuwait has been keen to stick to all IAEA conventions and agreements with a view to creating international peace and security. Patronized by HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, the seminar comes within KUWAIT: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Yukia the framework of existing coopera- Amano (center), flanked by Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry Undersecretary tion between Kuwait and the Khaled Al-Jarallah (left) and Finance and acting Oil Minister Anas Al- nuclear watchdog, the minister Saleh, attends a seminar on nuclear applications for sustainable devel- added. The event is mainly meant to opment in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries yesterday at the share information and views on the Arab Organizations Headquarters. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat peaceful use of nuclear sciences and joined the agency in 1964, Saleh regional and international peace technologies in order to address var- said, appreciating the IAEA’s contri- and security, Saleh pointed out. The ious world challenges and buttress bution to achieving world peace and minister appreciated the Amir’s dis- social and economic development security through its role and efforts. tinguished initiatives purposed to at both national and regional levels, Over the last decades, HH the Amir support sustainable development, he noted. Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- fight poverty, pollution, food short- Kuwait has signed all IAEA agree- Sabah has exerted relentless efforts age, illiteracy and diseases and alle- ments, including the Non- to set out a new concept of humani- viate climate change impacts. Proliferation Treaty (NPT), since it tarian diplomacy to safeguard Continued on Page 13 ‘Silk Road’ train in Tehran

TEHRAN: The first train to connect China and Iran of this train in less than 14 days is unprecedented,” arrived in Tehran yesterday loaded with Chinese said the head of the Iranian railway company, goods, reviving the ancient Silk Road, the Iranian rail- Mohsen Pourseyed Aqayi. “The revival of the Silk way company said. The train, carrying 32 containers Road is crucial for the countries on its route,” he said of commercial products from eastern Zhejiang at a ceremony at Tehran’s rail station attended by the province, took 14 days to make the 9,500-km journey ambassadors of China and Turkmenistan. through Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. “The arrival Continued on Page 13

TEHRAN: Iranian officials applaud on the platform as the first train connecting China and Iran arrives at the capital’s railway station yesterday. — AFP LOCAL TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah is pic- (From left) Constitutional Court member Ahmad Bu-Ghammaz, Chairman of Kuwait’s Supreme Judicial Council and the Cassation Court, and tured with Chairman of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali President of the Constitutional Court Justice Yousef Al-Mutawaa, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Justice and Thunayan Al-Ghanem. —Amiri Diwan and KUNA photos Awqaf Minister Yaqoub Al-Sane and Supreme Judicial Court member Abdulatif Al-Sraiya. Amir receives KCCI Chairman, members Newly appointed judges take oath before Amir

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah They discussed with His Highness the Amir Highness the Amir on the occasion of assum- Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Seif means of financial reform, as well as Kuwait’s ing his new post. Palace yesterday Chairman of Kuwait Chamber developmental vision in light of oil prices’ His Highness the Amir received the Court of of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali Thunayan decline. The meeting was attended by Deputy Appeals Attorney, member of the Al-Ghanem, as well as KCCI members. Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Constitutional Court Judge Ali Ahmad Bu- Jarrah Al-Sabah. Ghammaz, as he also took oath before His “It is of great honor to me and the mem- Highness the Amir, on the occasion of assum- bers of the Chamber to meet His Highness the ing the post. Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- His Highness the Amir also hosted Attorney Sabah during such critical economic circum- at the Ministry of Justice, member of Kuwait’s stances encountering our country, regarding Supreme Judicial Court Abdulatif Sraiya’ Al- the decline in oil prices,” Ghanem said. Sraiya’ on the occasion of assuming his new “This requires efforts of all of us, hand in post. The meeting was attended by Deputy hand with His Highness the Amir in order to Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali set Kuwait in a prominent financial status”, he Jarrah Al-Sabah, and Minister of Justice, said. “The drop in oil prices has a great impact Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Yaqoub especially on the State’s budget, as 90 percent Abdulmohsen Al-Sane. of it depends on oil revenues, while many oth- Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir received er nations only depend on 50 percent of their Engineer Ahmad Abdullah Al-Manfouhi, the oil revenues, and yet has succeeded in their new Director General of Kuwait Municipality, endeavor”, he added. on the occasion of his assignment to his new His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Hamad Al-Sabah meets Director “As representatives of the Chamber, we are post. The audience was attended by Minister General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Yukiya Amano. working with the private sector to cooperate of Municipal Affairs Essa Ahmed Al-Kanderi with His Highness the Amir and the Cabinet in and Deputy Minister of the Amiri Diwan Amiri Diwan Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah. His Sabah received Chairman of the Kuwaiti order to reach the proper solutions and alter- Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah. His Highness also Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber National Security Bureau Sheikh Thamer Al-Ali natives besides oil in order to support our received Dr Waddah Bader Al-Sayedd Hashim Mubarak Hamad Al-Sabah also received Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and Director General budget and State revenues” he said. “His Al-Rifai, on the occasion of winning a GCC Amano, with attendance of Jarallah and of the Environment Public Authority (EPA) Highness the Amir encourages us and has giv- excellence award. Kuwait Ambassador to Austria and Kuwait’s Sheikh Abdullah Ahmad Al-Humoud Al-Jaber en us all the needed support” he affirmed. Permanent Representative to International Al-Sabah. IAEA Director Organizations Sadiq Maarafi. Amano also held Moreover, His Highness the Crown Prince Judges take oath Also yesterday, His Highness the Amir discussions with Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled on received the State Audit Bureau Acting Chairman of Kuwait’s Supreme Judicial Earlier, His Highness the Amir received received Director General of the International ways of cooperation between the two sides as Chairman Adel Al-Saraawi and members of the Council and the Cassation Court, and Chairman of Kuwait’s Supreme Judicial Council Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Yukiya Amano well as the latest regional and international organizing committee of the celebration for President of the Constitutional Court, and the Cassation Court, and President of the and the accompanying delegation. The audi- developments. the bureau’s 50th anniversary. His Highness Justice Yousef Jassem Al-Mutawaa takes Constitutional Court, Justice Yousef Jassem Al- ence was attended by Deputy Foreign Minister In other news, His Highness the Crown also received Minister Kandari and Kuwait the oath before His Highness the Amir. Mutawaa, as he took the oath before His Khaled Al-Jarallah and Deputy Minister of the Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Municipality’s new director Manfouhi. —KUNA Ghanem meets Turkish President

ANKARA: Kuwait’s National Assembly tial palace in the Turkish capital yes- Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to the Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem and his terday. Turkish President, who, in return, con- accompanying parliamentary delega- During the meeting, the Kuwaiti veyed his greetings to His Highness tion met with the President of Turkey top lawmaker conveyed greetings of the Amir and the Kuwaiti political Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the presiden- His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah leadership. The two sides discussed several important issues regarding the Kuwaiti-Turkish bilateral relations and latest developments on regional and international scenes, including devel- opments in Syria and Iraq, and the suffering of the Palestinian people in the occupied lands due to Israel’s con- tinued oppressive policies. They also discussed terrorism and stressed the importance of bolstering regional and international coopera- tion to counter this increasing and KUWAIT: His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah meets Qatari Minister of dangerous phenomenon, in addition Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammad bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani. — KUNA to finding ways to boost Kuwaiti- Turkish ties in political, economic, tourism, and cultural fields. Qatari FM leaves Kuwait The meeting was attended by MPs Kamel Al-Awadhi and Ahmad Al- Qedheebi, and Kuwaiti Ambassador KUWAIT: Qatar’s Foreign Minister ways to bolster them in all areas. He Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled and Deputy Abdullah Al-Thuwaikh. Earlier, Sheikh Mohammad bin Abdulrahman was also seen off by a number of senior Minister of the Amiri Diwan Sheikh Ali Ghanem held official discussions with Al-Thani left Kuwait yesterday after con- foreign ministry officials. Jarrah Al-Sabah. Sheikh Mohammad his Turkish counterpart Ismail cluding a two-day official visit. He was His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah also met with His Highness the Crown Kahraman at the parliament in seen off by First Deputy Premier and Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah had Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Ankara. Ghanem is on an official visit Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Khaled received the Qatari minister at Seif Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime ANKARA: Kuwait’s National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem meets to Turkey at the invitation of Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Earlier, the two palace on the occasion of his visit to the Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Hamad with the President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan. — KUNA Kahraman. — KUNA men discussed bilateral relations and country. The meeting was attended by Al-Sabah.— KUNA Cabinet holds weekly meeting

KUWAIT: Cabinet held its weekly Minister of Defense Sheikh Khaled Al- mendations of the legal affairs com- meeting at Seif Palace yesterday Jarrah Al-Sabah on results of the mittee on a draft decree approving under the chairmanship of His Munich Security Conference which Memorandum of Understanding Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh discussed means of promoting coop- (MoU) on technological and scientific Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. eration and contacts to combat terror- cooperation between Kuwait and Ministers were briefed on messages ism. Sudan, and a draft decree approving received by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Khaled told conferees an agreement between Kuwait and Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- about results of meetings with minis- Chile, Kuwait and Cambodia, and Sabah from Tunisian President Beji ters of defense of friendly countries Kuwait and Russia on visa-exemption Caid Essebsi and Sudanese President that focused on enhancing bilateral for holders of official, special or diplo- Omar Hasan Al-Bashir on relations cooperation to serve mutual interest matic passports. The Cabinet between Kuwait and the two Arab and combat terrorism which poses a approved these draft decrees and countries and means of promoting threat to the whole world. sent them to His Highness the Amir. them, and political developments. Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ministers were apprised of two They were apprised of two letters and Acting Minister of Electricity and recommendations of the committee received by His Highness the Amir Water Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to okay two bills on private security from Indonesian President Joko Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah briefed minis- companies and the system of Islamic Widodo on an invitation to participate ters that Central Agency for Organization of Food Security. They in the fifth exceptional summit of the Information Technology obtained the okayed the two bills and sent them Organization of Islamic Cooperation ‘best m-government service award’ in to His Highness the Amir to be (OIC) to be held in Jakarta in March, the Arab world. Ministers expressed referred to National Assembly. and on the “distinguished” relations their satisfaction over this achieve- Finally, the cabinet discussed several between the two countries. ment, seeing it as an accomplishment reports bearing on the overall politi- KUWAIT: First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah The Cabinet listened to a presenta- of the government performance. cal developments in both Arab and received yesterday credentials of newly-appointed Ambassador of Pakistan Ghulam Dastagir at the Foreign tion by Deputy Prime Minister and They also were apprised of recom- international arenas. — KUNA Ministry headquarters. — KUNA TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 LOCAL

Two Farwaniya buildings New rules for expats hiring without electricity Filipina domestic helpers

By Ben Garcia Contacting the Ministry of darkness for seven days now because By Faten Omar suggesting that they should be whereabouts. Electricity and Water on its emergency someone failed to settle the electricity stopped from hiring helpers Kuwait has faced a slew of chal- KUWAIT: At least two nine-storey number 152, the operator took the bills,” he said. Power cuts in apart- KUWAIT: The Philippine Embassy because some of them force maids lenges in recent years regarding the buildings in Farwaniya have remained details and promised to call back. In ments in Kuwait typically occur over has set a requirement preventing to work for others in exchange of recruitment, hiring and treatment in darkness for the last seven days 30 minutes, the ministry informed rent disputes. maid recruitment agencies from money. “We face some complaints of domestic helpers, most of whom after the Ministry of Electricity and Kuwait Times their personnel were at The haris too could not provide a allowing expatriates to hire Filipina about forcing the maids to work for come from impoverished countries Water allegedly cut the supply of elec- the location. They spoke to the haris, proper and accurate answer, and is no domestic help. The reason given by others by the hour,” said the in Asia. Last year, the parliament tricity due to unsettled electricity bills. but details of their conversation are longer answering calls by Kuwait the embassy is that some expats recruiter who wished to be identi- adopted its first ever domestic “We were told that the building owner not known. But a source told Kuwait Times. Earlier, the haris (building’s jan- were taking the Filipinas to work fied only by her first name Sharifa. workers labor law, regulating the has not paid the electricity bills for Times that the ministry personnel told itor) confirmed that power has been outside of Kuwait without informing “If the mother is not working then thriving industry. There are an esti- years now. We are suffering for the them they cannot do anything about cut for the last seven days. “Yes, it is the embassy. she does not need a helper.” mated 660,000 domestic helpers in past seven days, and we want the their electricity problem. true - there is no electricity for seven Abdrahim, who runs a maid Conditions for employment, how- Kuwait and the vast majority are electricity back,” said Veenu, a resident Calls to the landlord went unan- days now,” he said. “I do not know the agency in Hawally, told Kuwait ever, seem to vary from agency to brought by recruitment agencies of the building. “There are children, swered. “We’ve been calling many reason, but the cut was from the min- Times that the agency faced prob- agency. which charge fees of between KD elderly people and pregnant women people, but nobody wants to talk to istry. This is all what I know. People in lems when helpers they had recruit- 400 to KD 1,500 to hire a domestic who have no choice but to use the us and explain why we have to endure the building are suffering from lack of ed ended up in Egypt, Jordan, No policy worker for up to two years. Charges stairs to reach their flats. There are sick this situation. It is weird why they can- electricity. Things will get worse when Lebanon and Saudi Arabia. “This Cesar Chavez, Philippine Labor are typically determined by the people here as well. Our house rent is not explain things to us properly,” said the weather gets hotter, but what can order [from the Embassy] was Attache to Kuwait Attorney, told nationality of the domestic worker inclusive of electricity,” he added. Veenu. “All I know is that we are in I do - I am just the haris here.” applied one month ago in some Kuwait Times that there is no such with agencies charging the highest agencies,” he explained. “So we policy but the embassy does fees for Filipino domestic workers. asked anyone who needs Filipina require non-Kuwaiti families to get Under the new labor law, maids to get the approval from the an additional approval with no domestic workers are granted the embassy.” extra fees to give the embassy the right to a weekly day off, 30 days of Doctor jailed for abusing, However, not all agencies have information about the number of annual paid leave, a 12-hour work- applied the rule and when Kuwait family members and so on. Chavez ing day with rest, and an end-of- Times asked, several noted that they pointed out that if any family wants service benefit of one month a year half-blinding housemaid would still provide Filipina domestic to travel outside Kuwait for vaca- at the end of the contract, among helpers to expatriate residents. tion they must update their contact other rights. Kuwait is the first in One employer argued that non- information with the embassy so the Arab Gulf states to pass such a Councilor accused of land fraud working mothers are not required that it can maintain accurate infor- law but mechanisms for implemen- By A Saleh Talal Maarafi. Following the addition, attempts to refund the down payment to hire maids, and went as far as mation regarding the helper’s tation remain to be developed. the total number of cases increased to had failed. KUWAIT: The court of cassation yes- 12. Speaking on the sidelines of a terday sentenced a Kuwaiti female workshop organized by the manpow- Advisor doctor to 42 months in prison and a er authority under the title ‘Rights and Former Vice Chairman of the Man killed, three injured in crash KD 5,001 fine for abusing her house- Duties,’ Motoutah explained that the Municipal Council Jassar Menawer Al- maid and causing the loss of sight in new six cases include holders of Jassar was appointed advisor to the By Hanan Al-Saadoun worth KD 2,000, KD 23 in cash and survival tips and falling into the sea her left eye. According to the case Palestinian passports and documents, Municipal Council starting this month. four civil IDs were in her bag at a wed- while sailing. paper, the doctor had been torturing cases in which employers provide a KUWAIT: An Arab man was killed and ding party. Separately, an Indian man the maid daily and had also been waiver, getting a transfer approval Municipality complaints three others injured during a car acci- accused a citizen of beating him and accused in a similar case filed by from the labor department, dual spon- A report issued by Kuwait dent on Seventh Ring Road yesterday. submitted a medical report stating another maid in 2007. The victim sorship (like having a work permit reg- Municipality’s Public Relations Mubarak Al-Kabeer fire center the injuries he sustained. escaped from the doctor’s house istered in a sponsor’s name and resi- Department said that the total num- responded to a call and helped free when she hired new housemaids and dency in another’s), humanitarian cas- ber of complaints received through the injured from the vehicles. New directions reported the matter. es and those reviewed by a committee the hotline 139 in January was 81 Separately, a Kuwaiti student was Director General of Kuwait Notably, the criminal court had comprising of the Interior Ministry’s including complaints about cleaning, killed and two others were injured Municipality Ahmad Al-Manfouhi acquitted the doctor, but the victim’s assistant undersecretary for citizen- garbage, filthy streets and uncollected when their vehicle flipped over near issued a decision that bans carrying lawyer contested the verdict and took ship and passports affairs, the residen- garbage. The report explained that 24 Dahr on the Seventh Ring Road. The out work of establishing offices, stor- it to the court of appeal, which passed cy director, the manpower authority’s of those complaints were made with two injured persons were taken to age areas, central mixers or temporary a sentence of 4 years’ imprisonment director and his deputy for protecting the Capital governorate areas followed hospital in critical condition. construction inside a work site until and KD 5,001 fine, but finally the court labor rights. by Farwaniya, where 20 complaints after informing the safety department of cassation reduced it to 42 months were made, then Mubarak Al-Kabeer Human trafficking about what will be done before the plus the fine. The victim’s lawyer then Councilor charged and Ahmadi with 10 complaints each, Ten men and two women were start, according to a form prepared by filed another case demanding a KD Lawyer Mohammed Ahmed Taleb Hawally with nine complaints and charged with human trafficking after the municipality’s safety department. 250,000 compensation for his client. yesterday filed a case against a current finally Jahra with eight complaints. being caught in a suspicious place in member of the municipal council, Mangaf. Meanwhile, a citizen was also KFSD course Absconding reports accusing him of fraud. Taleb said his Beggar arrested arrested in Mangaf over a KD 51,000 The sea fire department at Kuwait Acting Director of the Public client had bought a piece of land from A beggar was arrested in debt. Fire Services Directorate (KFSD) Authority for Manpower Abdullah Al- the defendant for KD 238,000 and Mubarakiya Market yesterday with organized a course for the Interior Motoutah said that six new cases have gave him a down payment of KD possession of KD 1,707 in cash, accord- Bag stolen Ministry’s non-commissioned officers been added to those entitled to undo 48,000 pending a waiver, but the ing to sources. The suspect was identi- A citizen’s bag was stolen from a and the coastguard department. The absconding reports filed against them, accused started stalling. He added that fied as a 54-year-old Bangladeshi hall in Jahra. The citizen said jewelry course covered fighting fires at sea, as per directive number 29/2015. The on checking on the land ownership national, and police discovered that directive was issued by the residency deed, he found out that defendant did she is wanted by authorities for affairs department’s director Maj Gen not even own the land and that all absconding. Temperatures to rise gradually: Ramadan

By Meshaal Al-Enezi plots to build a bank in Siddiq has been approved.

KUWAIT: Meteorologist Essa Ramadan said that a gradual Sewage water rise in temperature is expected over the coming days with The environmental affairs committee at the Municipal the approach of spring, with temperatures between 18 and Council postponed discussing a proposal by former council 27 degrees centigrade. member Mona Boresli on suspending allocating sites to dump treated sewage water into the sea until further Hospital’s parking notice from the Environment Public Authority (EPA) and Head of the Hawally committee at the municipal coun- Public Authority of Industry (PAI). In this regard, committee cil Yousef Al-Ghareeb said that the committee approved chairman Mane Al-Ajmi said many government bodies during its meeting yesterday a request to build a multi- attended a meeting yesterday to discuss the problem cre- storey parking building outside Mubarak Hospital’s casu- ated by dumping Ghazali sewage line waste into the sea alty department. Ghareeb also said that a request by the and the damage this has done to both seawater and Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor to allocate two land marine life. Action plan to guarantee ‘ideal’ voting process: Justice ministry

KUWAIT: The committee tasked with supervising the February 20th by- elections has set an action plan to guarantee an ‘ideal’ voting process, Women make head of the committee counselor Adnan Al-Jasser said yesterday. The committee, of the Justice Ministry, assigned 84 members of the judicial up 16% of oil branch to all polling stations, all headed by chief of the primary commit- tee Judge Hamad Al-Hadhram, said Jasser, adding that 52 more judges sector’s were put on stand-by. The total number of eligible voters in the Third Constituency amount to 81, 812 (43,049 of whom females). employees: KPC Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has made all security prepa- rations and arrangements for parliamentary by-elections in the Third Constituency slated for next Saturday, said a senior ministry official. KUWAIT: The number of female employ- “The final touches for the process have been completely put in order ees in the Kuwaiti oil sector amounts to to impose security control and public order at polling stations,” Assistant 3,218 of total 19,290 employees, making Undersecretary of the Interior Ministry for Public Security Major General up 16 percent, said Nizar Al-Adsani, CEO of Abdulfattah Al-Al. He added that all human, technical and material capa- Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC). The bilities and requirements have been made available for Saturday’s by- oil sector in Kuwait and around the world elections. Ali added that such security measures are primarily intended to has employed several women in leader- ensure a fully transparent and smooth electoral process, pointing to coor- ship positions as one of the main pillars of dination and cooperation among other competent state bodies in this that sector, Adsani said in his speech at the regard. —KUNA ‘Woman and the Global Leadership’ con- ference, which kicked off yesterday. He added that women’s leadership role at KPC $120 billion projects executed is very significant and effective. He also said that women’s participation despite financial troubles: KCCI in the oil sector is not just a job, but also a KUWAIT: Regardless of the current economic situation, primarily dwin- strategic partnership that is vital and dling oil prices, major development projects valued in the vicinity of important, and proved females’ competen- $120 billion are being carried out, said a Kuwait Chamber of Commerce cy and potentials in the oil field, noting and Industry (KCCI) member. While meeting a visiting Omani commercial that women in the Middle East region delegation, KCCI Member Tareq Al-Mutawaa said Kuwait’s development make up only 12 percent of the total high- projects and civil servants making up roughly 90 percent of the country’s er administrative jobs. Meanwhile, Adsani public and private workforce would not be affected by the present finan- indicated that the number of population cial circumstances. He added that the Omani team’s visit mainly aimed to around the world will be around nine bil- explore Oman’s available investment opportunities for Kuwaiti investors, lion people in 2040 from current 7.2 bil- hailing bilateral strong social and economic bonds. The head of the lion, which will require more clean fuel to Omani delegation, Amer Al-Hajri said his country boasts a set of invest- meet economic and social developments, ment incentives, including foreign investors’ ownership of shares in expecting a demand increase for energy Omani businesses and tax exemptions. He added that Oman enjoys by 25 percent from 2014 to 2040. — KUNA political and economic stability, unrestricted transfer of money and prof- its and free trade and easy access to world markets.—KUNA TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 LOCAL No Zika virus cases in Kuwait: Minister

KUWAIT: Minister of Health Ali Al-Obaidi declared Kuwait as a would start operation in three health centers soon in addition studies program has been launched in cooperation with the Zika virus-free country. Speaking at the opening session of the to 140 others in Sabah Al-Ahmad specialized center which Faculty of Dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Fourth Kuwait Dental Administration Conference on Sundae, would be inaugurated in 2017. He noted that there is a great in which 300 Kuwaiti dentists had studied. Moreover, over 400 Obaidi confirmed that no Zika-infection case was reported in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Works to equip the Kuwaitis have been sent to study dentistry abroad during the Kuwait so far. He added the ministry is coordinating with the dental clinics at Jaber Hospital and prepare them for opera- period from 2000 to 2014. The ministry has offered training World Health Organization (WHO) to prevent the virus from tion in the near future. programs for 1, 026 dentists till 2014, added the minister. reaching Kuwait. The ministry is doing all in power to provide integrated WHO has recently declared a global health emergency health services through the primary health centers nation- 2,400 dentists over the rapid spread of Zika in the Americas as the outbreak wide, so it aims to open dental clinics in every health center, In the meantime, head of the organizing committee of the has coincided with an increase in head and brain malforma- he clarified. He revealed that the ministry has increased the conference and Director of the Dental Administration at the tions among newborns especially in Brazil. number of dental clinics in primary health center from 134 to Ministry of Health Dr Sabiha Al-Mutawa said 18 keynote Zika virus disease is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes 311 in during the period from 2000 to 2014. He added the speakers would deliver lectures in the conference which will mosquitoes. People with Zika virus disease usually have ministry has also equipped dental clinics with the latest-of- also host 18 diverse workshops. The event also attracts nearly symptoms that can include mild fever, skin rashes, conjunc- the-art technology for diagnosing and treatment. 2,400 dentists from Kuwait and other world countries. tivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise or headache. These Obaidi underlined that the state is keen on providing Mutawa stated that this is a biennial conference which symptoms normally last for 2-7 days. There is no specific treat- school students, people with special needs and senior people goes with the mission of the Ministry of Health to update and ment or vaccine currently available. The best form of preven- with high-quality dental treatment. There are 220 at schools upgrade the knowledge and skills of all involved with den- tion is protection against mosquito bites. The virus is known and mobile dental clinics for this purpose, he said. Kuwait also tistry. The edition is themed “Our Vision For A Better KUWAIT: Minister of Health Dr Ali Al-Obaidi speaks at the to circulate in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific. has increased the number of dentists dispatched abroad for Tomorrow” and it tackles several dental topics ranging from opening session of the Fourth Kuwait Dental post-graduate studies, especially through the Kuwaiti dental marketing, different aspects of clinical dentistry, labo- Administration Conference. — KUNA Dental clinics Dentistry Board Program in Ireland, he said. ratory technology, cone beam computed technology, behav- Meanwhile, the minister unveiled that 240 dental clinics Furthermore, he pointed out that a post-graduate dentistry ior management and basic life support techniques. — KUNA

Authorities join hands to contain foot-and-mouth KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Three times Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources Meanwhile, PAAAFR Director of (PAAAFR), in coordination with Kuwait Livestock Health, Dr Abdulrahman Al- Environmental Police, has taken all nec- Kanderi, said the department immunizes essary precautions to prevent spread of the cows in the country three times per the foot-and-mouth disease, PAAAFR year, with 28,000 shots each time. He also Director General Faisal Al-Hasawi clarified that the infectious disease does affirmed yesterday. not transmit to camels. “The health situation is stable; propor- Furthermore, the foot-and-mouth dis- tion of infections among the herds has ease “poses no hazard to human well- dropped,” Hasawi said, adding that the being,” Hasawi explained, however he not- Kuwait Environmental Police (KEP) have ed that only two cases were recorded in enforced a quarantine at Al-Sulaibiah Kuwait over the past 50 years. And that the farms. The Environmental Police, along patients had recovered. The disease out- with the Public Security, is staging break was first reported early this month patrols all over Al-Sulaibiah to ensure among a number of cows. Farmers had effectiveness of the quarantine, prevent- been guided on how to prevent it from ing entry or exist of cattle infected with spreading. the foot-and-mouth disease, he added. The patrols work round the clock and Conserving wildlife there are two fixed monitoring stations In other news, the Kuwait Environment there, as well. Protection Society emphasized the impor- tance of continuous productive coopera- Tight quarantine tion with PAAAFR for protection of vegeta- This file photo shows the Jaber Hospital under construction. Hasawi indicated that the special gov- tion, wildlife and marine creatures. It also ernment panel that groups representa- called for boosting cooperation in organiz- tives from PAAAFR, the Municipality and ing cultural and awareness activities Ministry to deliver Jaber Hospital in June the KEP as well as the Union of Fresh between both sides. Diary Producers (UFDP), is coordinating Secretary General of Kuwait KUWAIT: Minister of Public Works Ali Al-Omair stat- Parliament’s Priorities Committee meeting, Omair, ment for the hospital. The minister added that the efforts to enforce the tight quarantine in Environment Protection Society (KEPS) ed Sunday that the ministry aims to deliver Jaber who doubles as Minister of State for National meeting also touched upon the situation in other the region, warning that violators would Wejdan Al-Oqab said yesterday that a fresh Hospital to the Ministry of Health in June 2016, Assembly Affairs, said representatives of the mega projects such as the new Education Ministry be penalized. visit by a PAAAFR’s delegation to KEPS’ three months ahead of the schedule. In a state- Ministry of Public Works and Ministry of Health headquarters, Jaber Bridge, and Al-Jahra motor- No infections have been registered in headquarters tackled mutual cooperation, ment to KUNA after participating in the would meet soon to discuss the required equip- way. — KUNA more than half of the farms there, and besides a host of issues namely overgraz- the “livestock wealth is sound and their ing, grazing in prohibited areas, and their products are free from diseases,” said negative impact on wildlife, as well as Hasawi who also called on all relevant developing and protecting wild plants in authorities to cooperate with the farms. the country. Kuwait completes PAAAFR has diligently worked to cope The two sides also agreed on allocat- with such outbreaks that happen yearly ing selected public gardens to develop project to remove in the country, he added. and enrich their vegetation, besides dis- Hasawi re-affirmed that the dairy cussing unjustified damage and tamper- Oshairej harbor products “were sound and were not ing with plants and flowers in public gar- affected after a number of cows were dens. Meanwhile, Hasawi said both KEPS infected with the foot-and-mouth dis- and PAAAFRA share the same visions KUWAIT: Kuwait Dive Team completed a phased project ease, “ re-noting that standard process- towards various environmental issues to remove Oshairej port stretching over 200,000 square ing and enveloping are observed in the related to protection of Kuwait’s natural meters, lifting thousands of tons of waste and barricades. dairy products manufacturing. resources. Hasawi applauded the mutual The project took over three years to remove the port, Explaining further, Hasawi said the dis- cooperation with KEPS and hailed the lat- located in the southern coast of Kuwait Bay, head of the ease had actually infected non-immu- ter’s distinguished work in the environ- team Waleed Al-Fadhil said yesterday. The harbor was nized calves that do not give milk. mental field. — KUNA affecting water currents in the area, said Fadhil, adding that the team has removed 80 sunken ships and boats from the port. The official also said that the team has cleaned up fish- ing nets and plastic waste that were hazardous to the environment, in cooperation with Kuwait Municipality and the Environment Public Authority (EPA). Meanwhile, he noted that this area is of great significance as it con- tains different forms of marine life. The port was also a vital source of rocks that Kuwaitis used to build their houses in the olden times, he added. — KUNA

Zain official sponsor of Kuwait Grand Photography Contest

Free distribution of rare KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunica- participation of judges from Kuwait, Oman, tions company in Kuwait, announced its offi- USA, UK, China, and Italy. saplings to green thumbs cial sponsorship of the Kuwait Grand Zain’s sponsorship of the contest springs Photography Contest for the third year run- from the company’s core belief that equip- By Nawara Fattahova al and planting awareness in Kuwait through ning. The contest, considered the largest of its ping young people with skills and tools nec- teaching and encouraging people to engage kind in the country, comes under the patron- essary to help them navigate their future lives KUWAIT: Kuwait farmer Yousef Al-Kreibani, in home planting and expand green areas in age of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber is an opportunity it should not pass on. who was the first to plant black tomatoes in the country,” Kreibani told the Kuwait Times. Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Photography is developing to become a well- Kuwait, in addition to many other vegetables This initiative will include distributing more Zain’s support of this competition for recognized and regarded profession and Zain in rare colors, distributed saplings to the pub- than 20 varieties of rare saplings including three consecutive years comes as part of its is keen to support its further development lic last Thursday in Mishref. Due to great those of black and orange tomatoes, purple endless efforts to highlight and support within the local community. demand, the entire stock was exhausted and orange cauliflower, red and blue corn, Kuwaiti youth’s hidden talents, especially that Zain will continue to foster young talents, within 15 minutes, so Kreibani will again dis- red lettuce and others. Saplings of some trees photography is a hobby that has tremendous believing that the current generation of tribute saplings of rare vegetables and plants like cardamom and henna will also be distrib- widespread among youth in Kuwait. youngsters holds to the keys to the future to citizens and expats this Thursday February uted. “I advise people to come early to ensure The previous two editions of Kuwait Grand development of Kuwait and need to be well 18th at 4:00 pm on Abdullah Al-Salem Street they receive the saplings. I plan to repeat this Photography Contest witnessed overwhelm- supported by private and governmental enti- (New Street) in Mubarakiya. initiative in the future in various other areas ing local and regional success. This year’s con- ties. Registration is open until the 1st of “This initiative aims to increase agricultur- of Kuwait,” noted Kreibani. test will witness its international launch with March through kwtphotography.com. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 LOCAL Media important weapon to establish GCC national identity: Info Minister

KUWAIT: Minister of Information Sheikh Salman These plans should target youth as they are in the Gulf states in general. number of issues on the Gulf region, adding that Sabah Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah stressed that mostly affected by cultural and media produc- On the sidelines of the meeting, Ali Al-Rais, the institution sought last year to develop and media is an important weapon to establish tion which runs counter to “our values, traditions the Institution’s Director General, told KUNA that improve its performance under a direct supervi- national identity of GCC countries through acts and moderation of Islam”, he noted. Since its the meeting is held annually to approve some sion of Information Ministry of Kuwait. seeking to address challenges in order to pro- establishment, the institution, which is a title of recommendations and topics of agendas. Conferees were briefed on the report of the mote values of tolerance, love, peace and GCC joint action in TV and Radio program, is one Participants will discuss how to deal with social Institution’s Director General concerning what belonging. This came yesterday during a speech of pioneering cultural and educational institu- media which imposed itself as a reality on media has been fulfilled last year in this regard, he said. by the minister while inaugurating the 46th tions on the Arab level seeking to build Gulf per- and review what has been presented to male A number of topics proposed by member states Board of Directors of the GCC Joint Program sonality through “distinguished program pro- and female students at schools. on the institution’s performance and how to Production Institution’s meeting. duction”, the minister said. Meanwhile, GCC assistant secretary for cul- select programs to be carried in the coming “Our region is going through a very critical “As a result of events around us, and devel- tural and media affairs Khaled Al-Ghassani said phase will be discussed during the two-day and sensitive phase, and facing successive opments of media and communication, we in a similar statement the meeting discusses a meeting, he noted. — KUNA events and developments on both political and should develop concepts and goals of our security levels,” Sheikh Salman, also Minister of media and cultural message to achieve the Gulf State for Youth Affairs, said. “We should immu- cohesion and discard extremism and terrorism nize our countries and peoples against effects of for maintaining security and safety of our coun- these events and developments in line with the tries and peoples,” he pointed out. He stressed directives and visions of GCC leaders, and rec- the importance of program production in pro- ommendations of information ministers with moting tourism among GCC countries that has a Information Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah current and future plans,” he added. positive impact on economy and development Union urges papers Controversy over not to lay off staff KTV comedic dance KUWAIT: Nasser Al-Othman, Secretary possible, to assimilate laid off journal- KUWAIT: A visiting comedian who danced on KTV General of the GCC Journalism Union ists. He also warned of losing experi- during an interview stirred controversy yesterday (GCCJU) urged newspapers in the Gulf enced journalists who, along with with comments on social media about the dance. Cooperation Council (GCC) countries younger ones, were the pillars of GCC The incident prompted a statement from the to avoid laying off journalists and to journalism. Assistant Undersecretary for Television Affairs at the reasonably and fairly compensate Further, Othman urged journalism Ministry of Information Yousef Mustafa. them in case they had to. Othman societies and relative GCC establish- According to Mustafa, behaviors that run counter argued that some newspapers might ments to cooperate in attempts to find to the country’s traditions and customs, and values resort to laying off staff as a cost cut- suitable settlements that would help through the State TV are not accepted. He added in ting measure to face financial prob- Nasser newspapers continue operating as well a statement published by state news agency KUNA lems in view of the situations GCC states Al-Othman as help find ways out of this ‘hopefully that the behavior made by a guest during a program are going through because of the falling temporary’ dilemma. He also urged GCC contradicts rules and disciplines of Kuwait TV which oil prices. information ministries and authorities to do is a safe haven to the society. He noted that those Othman also urged newspapers that can their best to support journalism establishments responsible for the behavior will be investigated by safely go through this stage to try, as hard as and journalists. Ministry of Information. Ooredoo launches exclusive campaign for business owners during Hala February

KUWAIT: Ooredoo Kuwait, a member of the inter- and is at the core of our values at Ooredoo.” national Ooredoo Group, launched a special offer Ooredoo offers two different levels of plans for to support small business owners across Kuwait, in small and medium business owners: Shamel celebration of Hala February 2016 with Ooredoo. Business plans, which include free local minutes, Business owners who sign up to Ooredoo Shamel SMS, and internet. Additionally, customers can Business Pro plans, which start from KD 30, get a benefit from calls between the employees of the complimentary 2-night stay at the luxurious company, as well as free business hours. Banana Islands Resort in Qatar, with two first-class Additionally, Ooredoo offers Shamel Business airline tickets. Also, all new lines activated during Pro plans, which come with free international min- the month of February will have a one month free Marzouq said: “We are proud to be supporting local utes and data roaming. Additionally, Business Pro subscription. businesses with an exclusive offer during Hala customers get a free secondary SIM card that Commenting on Hala February offer, Ooredoo February. Supporting young and local businesses is allows then to share their local mobile internet Senior Director of B2B-Sales Division Hamad Al- among our corporate social responsibility plans, with a mini router that comes with the plan. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 FROM THE ARABIC PRESS

Al-Anbaa News In Brief Promise Legislation needed By Dr Nermin Al-Houti to change salaries word that has many meanings, and all lead KUWAIT: Chairman of Kuwait’s Supreme Judicial Council to one - commitment. We, in his era are and the Cassation Court, and President of the missing the meaning of promise, covenant Constitutional Court, Justice Yousef Jassem Al-Mutawaa A said that the salaries of Kuwaiti employees cannot be and commitment in everything in our daily lives. Our societies used to see that when an individual changed in any way without a legislation. Asked about the role the judiciary might play in light of the government’s committed himself to do something, regardless of new direction towards spending rationalization, Mutawaa its results and repercussions, as we heard from our said that “the issue has not been discussed yet at the grandfathers, that person used to fulfill his promise Supreme Judicial Council so far, but judges are like state towards the person he made the commitment to. employees, be it in rewards and others.” He said the judicia- Those were our societies in the past, that did not ry’s budget and financial affairs are in the hands of justice need contracts or witnesses - only keeping the ministry, and “we do not have a role in it.” — Al-Qabas ‘word’. But today’s promises are only lies being said in order to escape from the situation or take whatev- 1.6 km tunnel to be built KUWAIT: Informed sources at the Public Works er was wanted, then when you face the person Ministry revealed details of the final stages of the First whom you promised, the answer will be: “Forgive Ring Road development. The details include construct- me; you know the circumstances. I could not or I ing a tunnel that links the Grand Mosque with the did not promise.” Palace of Justice. The ministry will receive technical It is regretful for all those who gave a promise Al- Jarida offers for evaluation before awarding the projects. The but did not fulfill them. My message today comes sources said it is difficult to determine the cost of the from many individuals who sent me emails. When I final stage at this time, especially that the tunnel is the read them all, I found them leading to one thing, Interior minister defuses first of its kind in Kuwait. They added that the tunnel which is “promise”, and not committing to it will be built between 10 to 16 meters underground, between the two sides. Away from the contents and will be 1.6 kilometers long. They said that the proj- and privacy of some topics, I get astonished by ect is expected to start in November 2019 and will end some main characters in the stories of my readers, crisis with key Arab state in October 2021. — Al-Qabas who made promises and swore to commit to them. Despite the different stories and the conflicting Kuwaiti envoy admits paying official for information Govt pays 95% power bill plots of the stories I read, we find out that all those KUWAIT: Official statistics showed that the average cost people made promises, but they did not keep of power per one house is KD 11,560 per year, and the them when they got what they wanted. The clos- KUWAIT: Kuwait recently managed to ambassador with. Further, the source Kuwait’s ambassador was recalled to overcome a diplomatic crisis that had neither confirmed nor denied news Kuwait where he said that what he did state bears 95 percent of its costs at KD 11,010, while ing sentence of most stories I read was “I did not almost affected its relations with a about that country’s intelligence collec- was part of his duties as a diplomat to the consumer pays 5 percent only. The stats showed that promise you anything!” major Arab state when security forces in tion of a computer from Kuwait’s highlight the attitudes taken by the the cost of operating air conditioning for 16 hours a day Away from stories, we really miss the meaning that state accused Kuwait’s ambassador embassy to unload information on it. country he was designated to in order is KD 10,158, and heat lighting is KD 1,275 per house of commitment in our society, not only at the per- of bribing a senior official to provide “All measures needed to maintain the to help Kuwait’s foreign minister and each year as a general average. The recommendations sonal level, but at all levels in our daily life. We now him with information about the work sovereign body’s security have been the government make the right deci- calls for looking into the subsidies in a way that it is not chase promises in our society, until the promise and activities of the body he works for, made regardless of diplomatic norms sions. The sources also noted that the a reduction only, but instructions to use energy saving became a phantom whose alphabets we miss, be it said informed diplomatic sources in that because what happened had never ambassador used to send part of the material. — Al-Qabas at home, school, work or personal relations, until Arab state. happened before and cannot be let go, information he collected back to we became societies that lack the meaning of The sources explained that a while especially with Kuwait’s embassy, Kuwait. The sources added that when promise. earlier, security forces had detected the because both countries have the best told that offering money and rewards in Interior approves incentives A final word: For all those who gave a promise ambassador’s relationship with the sen- historic relations,” said the sources. return for such information might KUWAIT: The Interior Ministry approved the financial and did not keep it, remember the saying of ior official and on placing him under Further, the sources highlighted that described as ‘espionage’, the ambassa- and material incentives for its senior officials in its new Almighty Allah: “And fulfill the covenant of Allah close surveillance, they found that the all steps followed and measures made dor stressed that he had good inten- form as part of its budget this year, in a way that when you have taken it [o believers], and do not official had been providing the ambas- had been done with constant coordina- tions, adding that he asked to complete agrees with state policy to rationalize spending. The break oaths after their confirmation while you have sador with information, decisions and tion between that country’s intelligence the remaining three months of his ministry approved a financial allowance for every assis- made Allah, over you, a witness. Indeed, Allah discussions made by that sovereign and Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and tenure and return to Kuwait and retire. tant undersecretary at KD 250 that will be paid starting knows what you do. (Holy Quran 16:91) body concerning Arab issues or inter- Minister of Interior Sheikh Mohammad Finally, the sources said that a senior with March. The payment will be referred to as ‘rental — Translated by Kuwait Times Arab relations, namely those with GCC Al-Khaled Al-Sabah, who did his best to intelligence official from the concerned allowance,’ and will be paid instead of giving officials states. The sources added that the offi- wrap up the issue and fully cooperate country had visited Kuwait for a few luxurious cars, and sports utility vehicles for director cial denied the charges at first but col- with the concerned country’s intelli- hours where he conferred with Sheikh generals. A security source said the measures included lapsed on being confronted with docu- gence to limit the violation, claiming a Mohammad and expressed satisfaction the cancellation of vehicle fuel coupons, except for mented evidence and digital docu- ‘personal mistake’ on the ambassador’s on realizing that the whole matter was those that belong to the ministry, which has special Crime ments he had been providing the side. Moreover, the sources said that an individual action. — Al-Rai stations. — Al-Rai Report Face-veiled woman Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority lured maid to rapists embarks on roadshow campaign KUWAIT: Ahmadi detectives are looking for a face-veiled woman who lured a Filipina maid to a camp with men who raped her, with a possibility that the woman presented a Highlighting 2016’s festivals, activities stolen or forged ID to the maids’ office. A security source said that the domestic help office’s owner said a veiled KUWAIT: Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Thrilling activities woman asked for a maid and entered a room where the Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) will announce Once the summer months kick in, the maids were, and selected one, paid the down payment and 2016’s top festivals and activities during its whole family can also enjoy three months handed a copy of a civil ID. Roadshow Campaign in the capital cities of of thrilling activities and entertainment in The owner said he was surprised two days later with the the GCC as it actively promotes Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Summer Season 2016. Fun-filled return of the maid who told him that when she left the as a unique destination with a year-long events include superb comedy acts, world- office, a car was waiting, and they got in the backseat, program of events for families and tourists famous children’s shows, star-studded con- while two men were in the front. The car went to a desert alike. Headlining these events will be the certs, international theatre shows and area with tents. When they entered a camp, the woman action-packed Red Bull Air Race, which much more. disappeared, while the two men along with others took forms part of the Abu Dhabi Aerospace and With a host of hotels and attractions turns raping her. Detectives heard the testimonies of the Aviation Week in March. The race features offering attractive packages and special office’s owner and the victim, who said she was able to world-class acrobatic pilots who will be fly- Summer Season promotional offers, the escape when the suspects went to sleep. ing their planes at incredible speeds whilst entire family can also indulge in enjoyable twisting and turning through a tough shopping sprees at various shopping Gas cylinders stolen slalom course with the aim of recording the malls. Further adding to all the fun and A restaurant owner told Maidan Hawally police that fastest lap time. excitement is the chance to win amazing five gas cylinders were stolen from his store. He said an In addition, the always eagerly anticipat- prizes with the mega promotions and raf- eyewitness said a red car was used by the thief. ed Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi fle draws throughout Abu Dhabi Summer Grand Prix in November will see the finest Season 2016. Formula 1 race car drivers reaching top In December 2016, the annual Abu speeds of more than 300 KPH as they battle 2016, we have worked even harder to bring until the 10th of May from its launch in Dhabi Food Festival is all set to team up Suicide bigger and better events that offer more October of the previous year, the eight- A 22-year-old Indian man hanged himself to death at his each other on the Yas Marina Circuit for the with SIAL Abu Dhabi, the region’s profes- fun and excitement. Accordingly, we would month-long event features 26 classical con- sponsor’s home in Adailiya. A suicide case was filed and closing race of the 2016 Formula 1 season. sional business platform for the food, drink like to encourage families and tourists from certs and performances by some of the investigations are in progress. and hospitality industries, to bring togeth- Preferred destination the GCC to carefully plan their year-long world’s leading musicians, orchestras and er all the ingredients for a food extravagan- “The UAE’s capital of Abu Dhabi contin- calendar in order not to miss out on their the most prestigious names in Western and za across the emirate. Spread over three Drug abuse ues to live up to its well-established reputa- favorite events,” Mansoori added. Eastern classical music. These performanc- weeks, the festival, which attracted over A 22-year-old Kuwaiti girl was taken to the Drugs tion as a preferred and sought-after desti- The host of other events programed es will take place in the UAE capital, 50,000 visitors last year, will incorporate the Control General Department after discovering she was nation for exciting family-oriented fun and throughout the year that truly make Abu Saadiyat Island, Liwa desert and other his- already established and popular Street using drugs. A security source said the girl was walking entertainment,” said Sultan Al-Mansoori, Dhabi a year-long family-oriented destina- toric sites in the emirate’s heritage heart- Feast, Emirati Kitchen and Gourmet Abu near Adailiya cooperative and collapsed all of a sud- GCC Country Manager, TCA Abu Dhabi. “For tion include Abu Dhabi Classics. Running land of Al Ain. Dhabi strands. den. Paramedics were called, and she was found to be using drugs. VIVA participates in ABK launches Tap ‘n’ Go Service for Reckless drivers Mobile World Congress Premium Visa Credit, Prepaid Cardholders Policemen brought four reckless drivers in Ahmadi under control after they turned a crossroads into a racing track. 2016 in Barcelona KUWAIT: Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK) recently The four were drag racing and skidding tires, creating noise announced the launch of the all new Tap ‘n’ Go and disturbance. Police surrounded the area to prevent KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest- tion to the latest offers, services and service that is now available for Visa premium them from escaping, then arrested them. The cars were growing and most developed tele- products. VIVA reaped several credit and prepaid cardholders. The new service impounded, and the four are facing further legal action. com operator, announced its partici- awards for excellence in the Kuwaiti uses Visa payWave, a contactless payment tech- pation in Mobile World Congress telecom sector in 2015, including nology that enables cardholders to simply wave 2016 organized by Group Special “Best Industry Call Center” and “Best or tap their card on contactless payment termi- Neighbors’ fight Mobile association “GSMA” that will Medium Help Desk” from Insights - nals without the need to physically swipe or A fight broke out between two female Kuwaiti neigh- take place in Barcelona between 22 Middle East Call Center Awards insert the card into a point-of-sale. bors in Salmiya, who exchanged insults and threats, 2015, the only Call Centre dedicat- Tap ‘n’ Go uses a Near Field Communication after one of them accused the other of beating her ed, Professional Services (NFC) technology and allows customers to con- son. Neighbors attempted to cool things down but Organization in the Middle East. duct low value transactions in a faster, more failed. Hawally patrols went to the building took both Up to 2,200 companies from convenient and secure way at any terminal that places where and when they want them - women to the police station for further legal action. around the world will participate in accepts Visa payWave. whether they choose traditional cards, Visa this congress, specialized in Commenting on this advancement, Stewart payWave-enabled cards or smartphones with telecommunications, internet and Lockie, GM - Retail Banking at ABK said: “The Visa mobile payment functionality,” said Amit Compatriots’ row technology, in addition to more launch of the new Tap ‘n’ Go service is one step Vij, Kuwait Country Manager at Visa. An Egyptian man was beaten by a compatriot using a ham- than 90 thousands visitors who will further towards applying the Bank’s ‘Simpler Visa payWave is accepted globally and is mer following a dispute between the attacker and his wife. experience the latest in the mobile Banking’ strategy, which has been a priority. specifically of value when transacting in fast- The Egyptian told police that his female neighbor had a industry. ABK’s Emirates Visa Infinite, Signature and Gold paced locations like supermarkets, and public dispute with his wife over drying laundry on the roof and The GSMA represents the inter- Prepaid Travel cardholders can apply for a Visa transport in London, Paris, Rome and exchanged blows, so he went to rescue his wife, but the ests of mobile operators worldwide, payWave-enabled card at any of the Banks Singapore. neighbor beat him with a hammer and injured his hand. uniting nearly 800 operators with branches”. The Bank supports the adoption of innova- The Egyptian submitted a medical report as he lodged a more than 250 companies in the “Visa is pleased with Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait’s tive contactless-based payments as it is com- complaint. broader mobile ecosystem, includ- decision to implement Visa’s payWave technolo- mitted to servicing its customers based on their ing handset and device makers, soft- gy, which is in line with Visa’s objectives to pro- changing needs while providing them with and 25 February 2016. ware companies, equipment Man mugged vide easy, secure, and convenient payment ‘simpler’ banking solutions. VIVA’s CEO Eng Salman Bin providers and Internet companies, solutions to our consumers in Kuwait. For more information on Al Ahli Bank of A Bangladeshi man told Nugra police station an Abdulaziz Al-Badran will headed as well as organizations in adjacent unidentified person beat him and stole phone Delivering a seamless payment experience to Kuwait please visit www.eahli.com or contact VIVA’s executive delegation to the industry sectors. The GSMA also pro- our customers is a priority for us. Visa’s innova- an ABK representative via ‘Ahli Chat’ or by con- recharge cards and KD 25. He said he hung on to the congress at STC’s Booth, where all duces industry-leading events such car, but the suspect dragged him on the street. He sub- tion leadership means extending the benefits of tacting a customer service agent via ‘Ahlan Ahli’ VIVA’s achievements will be dis- as Mobile World Congress, Mobile electronic payments to more people in more at 1899899. mitted a medical report. — Al-Rai, Al-Anbaa played since its inception, in addi- Asia Expo. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Israeli former Olmert Plane returns to London; laser beamed into cockpit begins his prison term

Page 10 Page 8 Snow, sleet, rain hit Mid-Atlantic, Northeast

NEW YORK: A grab bag of weather conditions - in January 1994. Boston reached minus 9, including snow and sleet - will descend on breaking the record set in 1934 by 6 degrees. It communities from the mid-Atlantic to the reached minus 16 in Worcester, Massachusetts, Northeast, but with many people off for breaking the 1979 record of 11 below zero. Presidents’ Day it may be just another day to Providence hit minus 9 and Hartford minus 12, hunker down. After much of the northeastern also breaking records from 1979. United States experienced record cold on In Montpelier, Vermont, the overnight tem- Valentine’s Day, the National Weather Service perature hit minus 19, tying a record set in said yesterday would be snowy in many areas 2003. And South Lincoln, Vermont, recorded 27 before sleet or freezing rain started and rain below zero. Temperatures were so low in some finally arrived. spots, utilities were knocked out. A frozen regu- Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said she lator left about 400 customers in Connecticut deployed the DC snow team Sunday ahead of without natural gas service and officials believe the storm, which is expected to deliver a sloppy extreme cold in Vermont broke a utility pole, mix of snow, sleet and rain. One to 3 inches was knocking out service to about 1,500. a forecast for yesterday. Outside the nation’s cap- An emergency generator didn’t kick in for ital, the Virginia Department of Transportation Sheffield Selectboard Chairman Walter Smith, staged nearly 2,500 trucks to treat and clear who said he lost a greenhouse full of about 500 roads. Philadelphia also could see 1 to 3 inches orchids. “I’ve got it working now, but it’s too of snow and New York City could get up to 4 late,” he said. The cold kept many people inside. inches before the transition to wet weather In a New Jersey bagel shop that’s usually brim- begins. Meteorologist Bruce Sullivan said there ming with customers on Sunday mornings, Joe could be significant snowfall - anywhere from 4 Weir was among a small handful of people who to 8 inches - in eastern Ohio, western sat drinking coffee. “I just came from a church Pennsylvania and western New York. Some service, and it definitely wasn’t as packed as it mountainous areas such as in North Carolina usually is,” the 60-year-old Toms River man said. could get even more snow. The weather could “We have a lot of elderly parishioners, and have less impact because schools and many when the weather gets bad or real cold like this, workplaces will be closed for the federal holiday a lot of them choose to stay in and watch a and traffic should be lighter than usual. By today, Mass on TV instead of going to church. Can’t when temperatures increase, Sullivan said the say I blame them.” rain and some runoff could cause flooding in But on Sunday, officials were only con- some areas. Sunday’s teeth-chattering tempera- cerned by the cold they said was dangerous tures were some of the coldest on record. and could be fatal to those spending too much From New York and Boston to Providence, time outdoors - especially the homeless. Rhode Island, and Hartford, Connecticut, tem- Outreach teams brought 105 people into New peratures on Sunday morning dipped to as low York shelters, and 288 showed up at hospitals as minus 40 - on Mount Washington in New and health facilities including more than 20 Hampshire. The National Weather Service said who were brought in for care needed immedi- the temperature in New York City’s Central Park ately, New York Mayor Bill de Blasio said at a EVANSTON: A woman walks in the parking lot in Evanston, Ill. Snow has now overspread nearly all of the Chicago Metro area in fell to minus 1, a record low for the date. The news conference inside a lower Manhattan the early afternoon and is expected to continue into tonight. —AP last time it was below zero in Central Park was subway station. —AP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Britain to ban boycotts on Israeli goods

LONDON: British town halls and publicly later this week by Cabinet Office Minister Matt in recent years that have angered Israeli consumers are able to make informed choices News funded universities face “severe penalties” if Hancock during a visit to Israel, the government authorities. In 2014, Leicester City Council before they buy”. But an opposition Labor in brief they institute boycotts of “unethical” compa- statement said, without saying what penalties instituted a boycott on goods made in Israeli Party spokesman said the boycott ban was “an nies or Israeli goods under controversial new may be imposed. settlements in the occupied West Bank. A attack on local democracy”. rules to be outlined by the government this “We need to challenge and prevent these Scottish government notice to local councils “This government’s ban would have out- Retired Saudi security week. “Locally imposed boycotts can roll back divisive town hall boycotts,” Hancock was in Scotland also “strongly discourages trade lawed council action against apartheid South officer shot dead by IS integration as well as hinder Britain’s export expected to say. The measure would apply to and investment from illegal settlements”. The Africa,” he said. Amnesty International’s UK RIYADH: A retired security officer in southern Saudi Arabia trade and harm international relationship,” the the public sector as a whole, including the European Union last year backed the labeling economic relations program director Peter has been shot dead in an attack claimed yesterday by the Cabinet Office said in a statement yesterday. National Health Service. The only exception to of products from Israeli settlements, in a move Frankental also condemned the plan. “Where’s Islamic State group. Police spokesman Colonel Mohammed “Town hall boycotts undermine good commu- the boycott ban, which also covers action that Israel condemned as discriminatory and the incentive for companies to ensure there Al-Harbi said that a man in the Abu Arish area of Jazan nity relations, poisoning and polarizing against companies involved in the arms trade, warned could harm the peace process with are no human rights violations such as slavery region, bordering Yemen, reported at about 2:30 am (1130 debate, weakening integration and fuelling fossil fuel and tobacco, would be official sanc- the Palestinians. in their supply chains when public bodies can- GMT Sunday) that his father “was being shot at from an anti-Semitism,” it added. tions agreed by the central government. The Cabinet Office said it continued to not hold them to account,” he told the unknown source at his farm”. Police did not identify the vic- The proposed rules are due to be announced The move follows a series of local boycotts support labeling “to ensure that individual Independent newspaper. — AFP tim or give further details of his former security duties. They said a “criminal investigation” was under way into the killing. Usually the Saudi authorities describe IS-related attacks as “terrorism”. IS said in a statement that it had shot Israel’s ex-PM Olmert begins dead retired Brigadier Ahmed Fayie Assiri “at his farm in Abu Arish area of Jazan.” IS has claimed previous attacks on Saudi security forces as well as deadly bombings and shootings that targeted the Sunni kingdom’s Shiite minori- ty, which the Sunni jihadist IS group considers to be prison term for corruption heretics. Jazan and other southern border districts have also been subjected to shelling from Yemen since last March when Saudi Arabia began leading an Arab military coalition against Houthi rebels in the neighboring country. First Israeli ex-premier to serve jail time

RAMLE: Ehud Olmert, once feted for his US plane impounded; body peace efforts with the Palestinians yester- and cash found on board day became Israel’s first former premier to HARARE: Authorities Zimbabwe aviation impounded serve jail time as he began a 19-month sen- a US-registered cargo jet, a senior official said yester- tence for bribery and obstruction of justice. day, with a dead body and millions of South African With the nation transfixed and Israeli televi- rand reportedly on board. Civil Aviation Authority of sion broadcasting live, the 70-year-old Zimbabwe general manager David Chawota con- entered the Maasiyahu prison in the central firmed a plane registered with Western Global Airlines city of Ramle just before 10:00 am. He was was impounded at Harare International Airport on escorted to the prison by officers of Israel’s Sunday. A web site says Western Global Airlines is Shin Bet domestic security agency as a based in Estero, Florida. “The case is now in the hands crowd of journalists watched from nearby. of the state. It involves nationals and property of other A debonair man reputed to have a taste for countries so I am no longer qualified to give much fine cigars, Olmert’s prison term closes a detail but yes we impounded the plane on Sunday,” chapter in a long legal odyssey since he left Chawota said. “The crew requested to land for refuel- office in 2009. The charges against him ing but our ground-handling personnel discovered date to before his time as prime minister, to blood leaks and became suspicious. Talk to the police the years when he served as mayor of for more details,” he said by telephone, refusing to give Jerusalem and economy minister, among details about the crew or the cargo. Police spokes- other positions. woman Charity Charamba said she did not have the In a video message released yesterday facts of the case yet. State-run Herald newspaper, morning before he began his sentence, quoting unnamed sources, reported on Monday that Olmert maintained his innocence. “You can the MD-11 trijet was traveling from Germany to South imagine how painful and strange this Africa “stashed with millions of rands.” At today’s change is to me, my family, loved ones and exchange rate, 1 million rand is worth $62,500. supporters,” said Olmert, looking haggard and downcast. “I totally deny all the bribe charges attributed to me.” He added that “over the course of my extensive career I also made mistakes, though none of them were criminal by nature in my opinion. I’m RAMLE: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert (center) arrives at the Maasiyahu Prison in the central Israeli city of Ramle yes- paying a dear price for some of them today, terday as he begins a 19-month term for bribery and obstruction of justice. — AFP perhaps too dear. “With a very heavy heart, his appeal against a third sentence of eight Luxury travel and cigars efforts with the Palestinians at the Annapolis I’m accepting my sentence today. Nobody months for fraud and corruption. Born near the port city of Haifa, Olmert was conference in the United States in 2007, but the is above the law.” The Israeli Prisons Service says he has elected to parliament in 1973 for the rightwing corruption charges against him have come to been assigned to special block 10, “which is Likud party and served as mayor of Jerusalem define his legacy. US financier Morris Talansky, a Four pair of underpants intended to house prisoners who for various from 1993 to 2003. He later joined the cabinet. key witness in one of the cases, testified that Olmert was initially given six years’ prison reasons cannot be placed with the general He broke away from the Likud with then-prime Olmert gave him envelopes stuffed with cash in May 2014 for taking bribes in the early prison population.” He will join four other minister Ariel Sharon in 2005 to form the centre- and said much of the money may have been 2000s in connection with the construction unidentified inmates in block 10, which has right Kadima party and became premier the fol- spent on luxury travel and fine cigars. The testi- of Jerusalem’s massive Holyland residential a maximum capacity of 18, and he will even- lowing year after Sharon suffered a massive mony sent shock waves through Israeli politics. complex, but the sentence was later tually have to share a cell. Inmates are stroke and slipped into a coma. Olmert resigned Before taking over as premier in 2006, Olmert reduced to 18 months. Last week, an Israeli allowed to bring from home four pairs of as prime minister in September 2008 after police was recognized as a key strategist behind many court handed him an additional month for underpants, four pairs of socks, two towels recommended he be indicted for graft, but he of Sharon’s boldest moves, including Israel’s obstructing justice. He admitted to the and two sweatshirts without hoods or lining. remained in office until March 2009, when Likud 2005 withdrawal from Gaza and his decision to crime as part of a plea bargain in that case. They can also bring with them one blanket leader Benjamin Netanyahu was sworn in to the leave Likud and form Kadima. He was once seen His prison sentence could still be extend- (not a duvet), two sheets, a pillowcase, and post, which he has held ever since. Olmert won as among the most promising politicians in ed further. The Supreme Court is debating religious books and articles. international acclaim for relaunching peace Israeli history. — AFP Malki: Latest violence

HOBART: Photo shows a deadly Australia eastern brown shows Palestinians snake, which has enough venom to kill 20 adults with a single bite, in the Sydney suburb of Terrey Hills. — AFP at end of tether

Girl falls victim to a rare TOKYO: Renewed violence between Israelis and case of deadly snakebite Palestinians has its roots in the latter’s humiliation and des- SYDNEY: A young girl has died in Australia after being bitten by peration after decades of occupation, Palestinian foreign a feared brown snake, officials said yesterday, a rare fatality minister Riad Al-Malki said yesterday. Five Palestinians, even though the country is home to some of the planet’s dead- including three teenagers, were killed while carrying out liest species. The death of the six-year-old prompted emer- attacks Sunday, the latest in a wave of Palestinian knife, gency services to warn people to be on their guard against gun and car-ramming attacks on Israelis that erupted at brown snakes, whose bite is often painless. They are known as the beginning of October. Since then 172 Palestinians and nervous reptiles that strike with little hesitation. Police in New 26 Israelis have been killed. South Wales state said the girl was bitten on Friday on a rural Most of the Palestinians were carrying out attacks but property near Walgett, some 660 kilometers northwest of others died during clashes and demonstrations. Malki Sydney. She was taken to a local hospital and given anti-venom pointed to ongoing Israeli occupation of the West Bank, before being flown to Sydney Children’s Hospital on life sup- which began in 1967, saying Palestinians born under it port. But her condition worsened and she died on Saturday. have seen nothing “but humiliation, soldiers’ check-points, According to official estimates there are about 3,000 snakebite deaths and killing”. “They are born without any hope for cases in Australia every year, with 300-500 needing anti-venom the future... that’s why sometimes they (teenage assailants) treatment. Only an average of two a year prove fatal. Australia is decide to sacrifice their lives even at the age of 15... for the home to 20 of the world’s 25 most venomous snakes. The better lives of the rest of the Palestinians,” Malki told a press ISTANBUL: Protesters wheel a person overcome with the effects of tear gas during clashes in Istanbul between police Eastern Brown Snake causes more deaths than any other conference. He is visiting Japan with Palestinian president forces and people protesting against security operations against Kurdish rebels in southeastern Turkey. — AP species, according to the Australian Museum. Mahmud Abbas, who met Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe later Monday. During the meeting, Abe pledged $78 million in fresh UN urges UAE to release 5 economic assistance, according to Jiji Press and Kyodo Turkey shells Kurds as Libyans allegedly tortured News. Abe also “expressed Japan’s intention to continue its GENEVA: UN human rights experts are calling on the political and economic support so that Palestine will be an United Arab Emirates to release five Libyans, including independent, democratic, viable and contiguous state,” raids hit MSF hospital three with Canadian or US dual citizenship, who were Kyodo cited a joint press release issued after the meeting allegedly tortured while in detention over the last year as saying. BEIRUT: Turkey shelled Kurdish fighters in Syria for a third day Rifaat. The SDF has already seized the nearby Minnigh air- and a half. UN special rapporteur on the right to Malki, at his press conference, also said that Palestinian yesterday and a suspected Russian air strike on a hospital left base from rebel forces, and severed the road between Tal health, Dainius Puras, says most of the detainees don’t authorities do not advocate violence and are trying to pre- several dead, as violence shook the country ahead of a hoped- Rifaat and the key rebel-held town of Azaz on the border have adequate access to medical care and face health vent it. “But the international community has to under- for ceasefire. Ankara and Moscow also traded accusations over with Turkey. problems including loss of sight and hearing due to stand that there is a limit to everything,” he said. their respective roles in Syria, escalating a war of words that Turkey fears the Kurds will be able to create a contiguous the alleged torture. The UN yesterday identified the Some analysts say Palestinian frustration with Israeli has dampened hopes that a proposed cessation of hostilities Kurdish territory just across the border in northern Syria. five as Adel Rajab Beleid Nasef; Moad Mohamed Al occupation and settlement building in the West Bank, the will take hold this week. The cross-border Turkish artillery fire, Turkey’s Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu warned Monday Hashmi; Salim Alaradi, who also has Canadian citizen- complete lack of progress in peace efforts and their own which began on Saturday, comes amid deep concern in Ankara that Ankara “will not let Azaz fall” to the SDF, adding “the ship; and father and son Kamal Ahmed Al Darrat and fractured leadership have fed the unrest. Israel blames over advances by Kurdish-led forces in Syria’s Aleppo province. necessary intervention will be made”. Mohamed Kamal Al Darrat, who are also US nationals. incitement by Palestinian leaders and media as a main Turkey accuses the Kurdish forces of links to the Kurdistan The situation is a major headache for Washington, which The experts said they found a reply from Emirati cause of the violence. Peace talks collapsed in April 2014 Workers Party (PKK), an outlawed movement that waged a has backed the Kurds in their battles against the Islamic authorities about their cases “unpersuasive.” and since then, the situation has deteriorated, with the decades-long insurgency against the Turkish state. Following State group despite the discomfort of fellow NATO member prospects of fresh dialogue appearing more remote than similar fire on Saturday and Sunday, Turkish shelling again hit Turkey. In recent days, Washington warned the Kurds not to ever. Malki said that one-on-one talks with Israel were out several parts of Aleppo province on Monday, according to the “take advantage” of the situation in Aleppo to seize new ter- 2 killed, more than dozen of the question. “We will never go back and sit again in a Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor- ritory. Turkey is also a key member of the US-led coalition injured in Burundi blasts direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations.” ing group. An AFP journalist on the Turkish border said Turkish fighting IS in Syria, and is allowing coalition planes to fly sor- BUJUMBURA: At least two people were killed and more than He stressed that a multilateral framework to solve the howitzers opened fire yesterday afternoon for around 20 min- ties from its Incerlik base. a dozen injured in a series of grenade blasts in Burundi’s capi- Israeli-Palestinian conflict is needed and he praised an ini- utes from the Akcabaglar region near a border crossing with Ankara’s shelling has prompted criticism from Damascus, tal yesterday, witnesses said. Two of the explosions happened tiative discussed late last month by France to revive plans Syria. The Observatory said the shelling hit areas including a which has urged the UN Security Council to take action. in an open market in the Ngagara area of Bujumbura, killing for an international conference to end the conflict. And he road west of the town of Tal Rifaat, where the coalition of Turkey yesterday also denied claims it had sent troops into the two. Two other grenades exploded in the center of warned that without international involvement a vacuum Kurdish and Arab fighters known as the Syrian Democratic northern Syria and rejected reports it was planning a ground Bujumbura, injuring 11 people. Another explosion happened will be left that may end up being filled by the Islamic State Forces (SDF) has launched an assault. The town, only 20 km intervention. in the Buyenzi area, wounding at least three people. The wit- jihadist group. from the Turkish border, is held by an alliance of mostly Islamist In northwestern Idlib province meanwhile, suspected nesses insisted on anonymity, citing concerns for their safety. “If Daesh take advantage of lack of any brokers... then of rebels and one of their few remaining bastions in the area. The Russian strikes hit an MSF-supported hospital, the Although the witnesses said they saw two dead bodies, course, they might come and try to fill it,” he said, referring shelling killed at least two children in the area yesterday, the Observatory said. MSF confirmed the hospital’s destruction, Security Minister Alain Guillaume Bunyonyi, who visited one to Islamic State. “This is very dangerous,” he added.”If the Observatory said. without saying who was behind it, and reported at least sev- of the blast scenes, said one was killed and 32 wounded. Americans are giving up and the Europeans don’t have the en people had been killed, with another eight staff members Bujumbura has been plagued by violence since last April, courage to do anything and Arabs are really worried about Warning to Kurds missing, presumed dead. It said the dead were five patients, when President Pierre Nkurunziza announced he would seek a their own problems, what do you expect? Extremists The SDF was advancing despite the shelling, it said, and a caretaker and a guard, and added that an unknown num- third term in office, which he won. around might take over.” — AFP there was heavy fighting inside the western limits of Tal ber of patients were also missing. —AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Saunas, aquariums, bar found at Mexico prison MONTERREY: Authorities found “luxury crime exerted with the complicity of some cells” with aquariums, portable saunas and authorities.” The prison had “luxury cells” even a bar at a Mexican prison where 49 with air conditioners, mini-fridges, digital inmates were killed in a brawl, officials said televisions, aquariums and portable Sunday. The warden and superintendent of saunas, the government said in a state- the Topo Chico prison in the northern ment, adding that authorities had seized industrial city of Monterrey, Nuevo Leon everything. state, were arrested and accused of drug The prison had food stands, conven- trafficking and failing to apply security ience stores and even a bar that were oper- measures. ated by inmates, the statement said. A guard faces charges of fatally shooting Relatives of inmates said that the prison- one of the inmates during Thursday’s ers had to pay high prices to get water and melee. Zetas drug cartel leader Ivan food due to the bad quality of the meals Hernandez Cantu, alias “El Credo,” had a provided by the prison. Authorities also king-sized bed in his cell, a huge flat-screen found hundreds of figures of Santa Muerte, television and a luxury bath, the Nuevo a Grim Reaper-like “Death Saint” worshiped Leon state prosecutor’s office said. “At the by criminals but also millions of ordinary time of the attack, a lady was with him,” Mexicans. “All the privileges are over,” state chief prosecutor Roberto Flores said. public safety chief Cuauhtemoc Antunez Authorities say the battle stemmed from a said. The prison had 3,800 inmates at the dispute over control of the prison between time of the riot, 35 percent over capacity, Hernandez and another Zetas leader, Juan and it was housing drug cartel members as Pedro Zaldivar Farias, alias “Z-27.” well as suspects of less serious crimes Most of the victims died when they awaiting trial. Authorities transferred 233 MEXICO CITY: Pope Francis celebrates an open-air mass in Ecatepec-a rough, crime-plagued Mexico City suburb. — AFP were stabbed or beaten with sticks by oth- inmates, including the two Zetas leaders, to er inmates during the skirmish. The state other prisons following the violence. The government said Sunday that police took day after the massacre, officials found control of the prison and “put an end to the scores of makeshift knives, hammers and Pope wants Mexico free self-government that leaders of organized drugs inside the prison.—AFP

Scalia’s death sends jolts of ‘merchants of death’ through presidential race Mexicans urged reject the devil WASHINGTON: The sudden death of Justice that it should be left to the next president to Antonin Scalia, a towering conservative icon fill Scalia’s vacant seat. Republicans contended ECATEPEC: Pope Francis urged Mexicans on year-old emphasized. “Only the word of God can arrival, while 13 people were shot dead in the drug on the US Supreme Court, has set off an epic that no president in recent history has nomi- Sunday to reject the devil and build a nation free of defeat him.” cartel-plagued Pacific state of Sinaloa on Saturday. election-year battle over his successor that will nated a Supreme Court Justice in his final year “merchants of death” during an open-air mass with Francis used his visit to the National Palace and the shape American life far into the future. Scalia in office. But Justice Anthony Kennedy, nomi- 300,000 people in a crime-ridden city. The pontiff ‘Too many kidnappings’ capital’s cathedral on Saturday to bluntly urge died of an apparent heart attack at age 79, nated by Ronald Reagan, was confirmed in used the service in Ecatepec, a rough Mexico City Throngs lined the streets of Ecatepec, where political leaders to provide Mexicans with “true jus- leaving what had been a conservative-domi- 1988, an election year. Obama called on the suburb, to touch on two major themes of his trip to walls were decorated with graffiti art featuring the tice” and security. Many Mexicans, fed up with a nated court evenly divided in a year of block- Senate to give his nominee a “fair hearing and Mexico-drug violence and the plight of migrants. pope’s image, to cheer the popemobile on the sec- decade of drug violence that has left 100,000 dead buster cases-on abortion, affirmative action, a timely vote.” The president nominates The pope urged his flock to turn Mexico into a ond full day of a trip that will take him to other or missing, had hoped to hear such words from the immigration and President Barack Obama’s Supreme Court candidates, but Senate “land of opportunity,” where “there will be no need Mexican hotspots. Hundreds of police officers pope. health care law. approval is required for them to take up the to emigrate in order to dream” and where they will stood guard around the field. “What the pope said The news sent shockwaves through the lifetime post, a long tenure that allows mem- “not have to mourn men and women, young peo- was important. (Violence) is a delicate issue Serenaded by girl White House race, as Republican and bers of the court to be free from the political ple and children who are destroyed at the hands of because the authorities aren’t doing anything to After the outdoor mass, the pope met with sick Democratic candidates absorbed the implica- pressures of running for office. the merchants of death.” end this,” said Alicia Tejeda, a 27-year-old account- children at a pediatric hospital in Mexico City along tions of the surprise, potentially course-alter- Ecatepec, a city of 1.6 million people, has ant who watched mass on a large screen installed with first lady Angelica Rivera, who wiped away ing opening on the court. “I think last night ‘Rare talent’ become infamous for a spate of disappearances of near the field. tears when a girl sang for the pontiff. “Seeing your with the passing of Justice Scalia, we are Obama ordered flags to fly at half-staff women, whose bodies have turned up in aban- Patricia Flores Marin, 46, was touched by the eyes, your smiles, your faces made me want to reminded of how important this election is, across the United States to mark Scalia’s pass- doned lots or canals, prompting authorities to message about migrants because her daughter thank you. Thank you for the affection that you how high the stakes are and why we must win,” ing, praising him as “one of the towering legal declare a “gender violence alert” last year. The city illegally migrated to the United States, but she is have shown in welcoming me,” the pope told the Senator Marco Rubio, in a bitter fight for the figures of our time.” Scalia died at a private lies in the populous state of Mexico, where some glad her child no longer lives in Ecatepec. “I would- children. Francis has chosen to visit some of Republican nomination, told “Fox News ranch in the Big Bend area of West Texas dur- 600 women have been killed between January n’t be at ease having her here. There are too many Mexico’s most troubled regions during his five-day Sunday.” ing a hunting trip. Presidio County Judge 2014 and September 2015, according to the non- kidnappings,” she said. The Argentine-born pontiff trip to the world’s second most populous Catholic Firing the first shot in the succession battle Cinderela Guevara told WFAA television the governmental National Citizen Observatory of made it clear before his arrival in Mexico that he country. The pope will face other tough issues dur- hours after Scalia’s death, Obama said he cause of death was a heart attack. Appointed Femicides. Francis urged the faithful to resist the would speak out about the corruption and crime ing his trip. On Monday, he visits Mexico’s poorest would exercise his “constitutional responsibili- to the Supreme Court by Reagan in 1986, three temptations of Christ-vanity, pride and afflicting parts of the country. and least Catholic region, the southern largely ties” and name a successor. Leading Scalia championed originalism, the legal theo- wealth. “Brothers and sisters, let’s get this into our Two massacres served as reminders of Mexico’s indigenous state of Chiapas, where monks and pil- Republicans-including all six conservative ry that the meaning of the Constitution should heads: You can’t talk with the devil. You can’t talk ills during his visit: 49 inmates died in a prison riot grims began to arrive for a mass in three native lan- White House contenders-threatened to block be interpreted as fixed at the time it was rati- with him because he will always defeat us,” the 79- in the northern city of Monterrey on the eve of his guages. — AFP any nomination Obama puts forth, arguing fied, in 1788.— AFP INTERNATIONAL TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Bosnia submits EU membership application NATO, Montenegro begin membership talks

BRUSSELS: Bosnia yesterday formally submit- Hahn said in a statement that the Yugoslav sees as encroachment on a region crucial to its ted an application to join the EU, hoping to wars of the 1990s “were one of the most awful security. NATO officials said two days of talks in catch up with its Balkan neighbors after years pages of European history”. The fact that Brussels will cover the “details of membership lost following the bloody break-up of Bosnia now wanted to join the EU, even when including political, military and legal ques- Yugoslavia. In the early 2000s, Bosnia the European project was being tested to the tions, and provide an opportunity for both appeared set to join the now 28-nation limit, showed how important it was to the sides to clarify outstanding issues.” The meet- European Union but deep divisions between future, they said in a joint statement. “Today ing was a “mark of the progress made by its Serb, Croat and Muslim communities we celebrate another step towards a united Montenegro since regaining its independence. blocked the political and civil society reforms and peaceful continent. And we need unity in NATO membership will reinforce Montenegro’s demanded by Brussels for membership until challenging times,” they said. “As some forces security and sovereignty,” NATO negotiator last year. across our continent are questioning the very Thrasyvoulos Terry Stamatopoulos said in a Dutch Foreign Minister Bert Koenders, existence of our union, Bosnia and statement. During the accession process, whose country holds the six-month EU rotat- Herzegovina’s application shows that the need which NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg hopes to ing presidency, said the bloc was happy to see of a united European continent is still strong conclude this year, Montenegro will have to “Bosnia back on the reform path”. “It is urgent among our peoples.” push through a series of reforms to ensure it to maintain the positive momentum by con- Bosnia has been deeply divided along eth- meets the democratic and civil society norms tinuing to implement reforms,” Koenders said, nic lines since the bitter 1992-1995 war follow- expected in the alliance. stressing that the EU would look carefully at ing the break-up of Yugoslavia. The Balkan Montenegro Prime Minister Milo what would likely take some years. nation’s EU bid was stalling for years. Trying to Djukanovic has strongly backed NATO mem- Dragan Covic, the chairman of Bosnia’s tri- push unblock the process, Brussels in 2014 bership but the pro-Russian opposition has partite presidency, said he submitted the adopted a new approach to the country, called for his ouster. Djukanovic won a vote of application on behalf of all the people of under the leadership of London and Berlin, confidence in Parliament last month, insisting Bosnia-Hercegovina- Croats, Serbs and and focused on reforms to revive the economy the government remained “unconditionally Bosniaks. Covic noted that Croatia had joined instead of difficult constitutional issues. attached” to its goal of NATO membership. the bloc in 2013, while Serbia and Montenegro Bosnia’s unemployment rate is over 40 per- Stoltenberg says Montenegro is free to choose SARAJEVO: A bird flies among Bosnian State flags near the Bosnian State parlia- were now making progress towards member- cent, among the highest in Europe. Bosnian NATO membership and that the December ship too. political analyst Tanja Topic said violent ment building in Sarajevo, Bosnia. — AP announcement was “not directed at anyone.” Facing “years of many challenges ahead,” protests in February 2014, when demonstra- couraging stagnation period which lasted wrote. In another development, NATO began Among the other states of the former Bosnia needed to improve its economy and tors set fire to government buildings in anger eight years,” Topic added. Bosnia’s Dnevni Avaz talks yesterday with Montenegro over possibly Yugoslavia, Croatia and Slovenia have both show that it could be a “credible” member of at the country’s social and economic situation, newspaper warned that there should be “no becoming the 29th member of the US-led joined NATO, while many of the former com- the EU, he said. were a “turning point.” illusions” over the country’s EU aspirations. alliance currently embroiled in a crisis with munist states in eastern Europe once ruled “It was then that Brussels realized a bad sit- “Submitting the application for membership Russia over Ukraine. NATO formally invited the from Moscow have also become members. ‘Need unity in challenging times’ uation that the country was facing,” she said. does not mean that the doors of Europe are small Balkan state to join in December, spark- Russia sees this process, backed by a military EU foreign affairs head Federica Mogherini Submitting the application was “important at wide open. The hardest work starts as of ing a sharp response from Moscow which build-up in response to the Ukraine crisis, as and EU Enlargement Commissioner Johannes least symbolically to mark a break with a dis- today,” the paper’s editorialist Erol Avdovic warned it would have to respond to what it firmly directed against its security. — Agencies Into the mosh pit: Republican campaign talk gets nastier WASHINGTON: In 2011, eyebrows shot up when and people get concerned, but then the next per- former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin son doing it is less eye-opening.” The Democratic used a salty acronym - WTF - to mock the policies nomination contest has been tame in compari- of President Barack Obama. How quaint. Five son with the Republicans: Hillary Clinton com- years later, Donald Trump has blown right past plained of a “low blow” when Bernie Sanders said acronyms in a profanity-laced campaign for the she was a progressive only on “some days.” Republican nomination that has seen multiple Sanders, in turn, rejected Clinton’s accusation that candidates hurl insults and disparaging remarks his campaign had engaged in an “artful smear” by at one another and their critics. insinuating that she was beholden to Wall Street. In recent days, Trump has publicly lip-synced As for the GOP campaign, Trump is playing to the F-bomb, blurted out the S-word more than voters who have a disdain for anything associated once, hurled an offensive term for coward at rival with the establishment, including the whole idea Ted Cruz and fired a steady string of put-downs at of appearing “presidential,” says Norman Ornstein, other candidates whom he labels pathetic, liars, an American Enterprise Institute scholar who’s losers, nasty, evil and more. While Trump started been watching presidential politics for decades. it, other GOP candidates have jumped right into That makes it hard for Trump’s rivals to fight back the rhetorical mosh pit, readily trading versions of using traditional tactics. “liar, liar” in Saturday night’s venomous debate. “If you are trying to be a boxer playing by Cruz has said Trump is “losing it,” called out his Marquess of Queensberry rules and you’re com- “Trumpertantrums” and dismissed the billionaire’s ing up against a mixed martial arts guy who insults as “hysterical.” doesn’t even abide by the rules of mixed martial Before exiting the race, New Jersey Gov Chris arts, do you sink to that level?” Ornstein asks. Christie predicted that he could beat Hillary “There’s no easy way to respond, because if you’re Clinton in a debate, promising, “I’ll beat her rear trying to show you’re different from this vulgar end on that stage,” and tormented fellow guy, then he’s going to beat you up.” Greene sees Republican Marco Rubio as a fragile “boy in the the coarseness of the GOP campaign as evidence bubble.” Even Jeb Bush, whose 90-year-old moth- that “the contest to become the alpha male in the YORKSHIRE: Children trudge through new falling snow as winter weather hits the North York Moors, North Yorkshire, England yesterday. Many er recently complained that he was too polite, room has become more obvious this time than in parts of Britain are bracing for another week of wintry weather with snow forecast to fall. — AP belatedly joined in. Bush, a favorite target of previous elections.” That seems to be just fine Trump’s taunts, tweeted back: “You aren’t just a with the voters who have put Trump at the top of loser, you are a liar and a whiner.” This, after weeks the polls and handed him a victory in New Scarred by election flop, UK of calling him a “jerk.” It’s not that politicians are Hampshire’s first-in-the-nation primary. About a typically paragons of proper speech and eti- quarter of Republican voters in New Hampshire quette. They’ve just tended to keep their name- said “telling it like it is” was the most important calling and coarseness off-mic. quality to them in selecting a candidate, and two- pollsters diverge over Brexit thirds of those voters went for the potty-mouth Low blow guy who tells it like no one else. Now, it’s on the podium - and by design. “He’s real, right?” said Joanne Galvin, an inde- “There’s a general taboo-breaking that allows pendent voter from Pelham, New Hampshire, Online polls suggest EU referendum will be tight race more and more of it to happen faster and faster,” explaining her vote for Trump. She dismissed his says Robert Lane Greene, author of “You Are What use of a vulgarity about Cruz at a big rally by say- LONDON: If you believe online polls, Britain’s voters became more engaged. seems likely at least to some extent, then that You Speak,” a book about the politics of language. ing Trump was simply repeating what someone looming referendum on whether to quit the For now, a phone versus online debate is in could suggest a similar effect in the EU referen- “The first time somebody does it, eyebrows go up in the audience had shouted out. —AP European Union will be a tight race that the “out” full swing. One argument put forward in favor of dum polling. Boon said this was possible but camp could win. But if you trust telephone polls, phone polls is that web panels tend to attract speculative as he had found no evidence of UKIP the “in” camp should triumph by a wide margin. more politically engaged respondents, as people voters being over-represented in ICM’s online ref- The divergence has raised fresh questions about must voluntarily participate rather than receiving erendum polls. “My personal inclination is that whether polling is reliable after the industry suf- uninvited calls. This could skew online results the telephone polls are probably a bit too far one fered a severe blow to its reputation last year towards the out camp, regarded as the more way and the online polls are a bit too far the oth- when a general election resulted in a committed group. Tom Mludzinski, director of er way, which magnifies the separation between Conservative victory that it totally failed to pre- political polling at ComRes, said it was also diffi- the two,” he said. dict. The stakes in the referendum could hardly cult for internet polls to reach elderly voters. He be higher. saw a risk that those older people who did take ‘An intriguing mystery’ The EU risks losing its second-biggest econo- part in online surveys were not typical of their Anthony Wells, director of political and social my and one of its two main military powers, age group and potentially more passionate research at YouGov, said a further source of while the consequences for Britain in terms of about wanting Brexit. uncertainty was the fact that online polls were trade, growth and influence in the world could “Our experimentation has led us to view tele- getting a much higher proportion of “don’t be profound. The pollsters are desperate to get it phone to be the most reliable for this particular know” responses than phone polls. “If the differ- right this time. “I don’t think the polling industry issue,” Mludzinski said, adding that for certain ence between the two is how knowledgeable can afford to get this one wrong and I think the other contests online polls were better. But oth- people are and how strongly people feel and world will be looking at our performance,” said ers countered that respondents to phone polls how engaged they are in politics, then the ‘don’t Martin Boon, director of pollster ICM. may not be representative of the broader popu- knows’ should be the other way round,” he said, The trouble is that pollsters disagree on which lation either, because most people hang up and adding that this was “an intriguing mystery”. method - phone or internet - is producing better only a small minority take part. Boon said that in One risk is that people could be telling phone results, and independent experts say it is impos- one phone poll conducted by ICM before last interviewers they favor staying in the EU sible to know for sure. “The honest truth is there’s year’s election, it took 28,000 calls to get 2,000 because they don’t want to seem uninformed Pope John Paul II an awful lot of uncertainty surrounding this refer- interviews. He said low response rates were com- and they perceive that stance to be uncontrover- endum,” said academic John Curtice, Britain’s mon nowadays. Several pollsters noted that in sial, a psychological factor that would not affect BBC: Pope John Paul II had intense foremost expert on electoral behavior. “If the the run-up to the election, online polls over-esti- online polls. “If it is causing more people who online polls are correct it’s quite close, and we mated support for anti-EU party UKIP while don’t have an opinion to say that they would friendship with married woman don’t know which set of polls is correct, if either.” phone polls under-estimated it, which some said vote to stay in the EU then the leads for ‘remain’ Over the past six months, the two firms that have reflected how web surveys attracted the more in the phone polls are phantom,” Adam LONDON: Pope John Paul II had a close Library of Poland, the first dated in 1973 been conducting phone polls, ComRes and Ipsos politically engaged. If there is a correlation Drummond, who manages political polling at relationship with a married woman which and the last a few months before his death MORI, have consistently found the option to stay between the UKIP vote and support for Brexit, as Opinium, said in a blog. —Reuters lasted over 30 years, according to letters in 2005. “I would say there were more than in the EU was ahead by well over 10 percentage which feature in a documentary being friends but less than lovers,” he said. points, and in some polls by more than 20 points. shown by the BBC yesterday. While the “One of the fascinating stories that But online polls, which are being done more Plane returns to London after documentary does not claim he broke his comes out of these letters is of a struggle to frequently by YouGov, ICM and four other firms, vow of celibacy with Polish-born philoso- contain what was certainly a very intense have found that the two sides are neck and neck. laser was beamed into cockpit pher and writer Anna-Teresa Tymieniecka, relationship which mixed emotions and The largest lead in an online poll was nine points the tone of some of his letters to her points philosophical ideas in proper Christian for the out camp, in a YouGov poll published on LONDON: A British pilots’ union yesterday Unions warned that lasers were a growing to intense feelings between them, the boundaries.” A close associate of John Paul Feb 4. Curtice has been overseeing a “poll of demanded action after a laser beam dazzled the problem, with 9,000 incidents reported to the broadcaster says. The two spent camping II said it was “possible” that a married polls”, a rolling average of the six most recent co-pilot on a New York-bound flight, forcing the UK Civil Aviation Authority between 2009 and and skiing holidays together and went on woman had fallen in love with him before phone and web polls, which provides a summary Virgin Atlantic jet to turn back shortly following 2015. London Heathrow alone recorded 48 inci- country walks. In one letter from he became head of the Roman Catholic of the overall referendum polling picture. Last take-off from London’s Heathrow Airport. Police dents in the first half of 2015, followed by September 1976, he calls her a “gift from Church. “Women fall in love with priests all updated on Feb 7 when it showed 51 percent in responded to “reports of a laser shone in the Birmingham with 32, Leeds Bradford with 24 God”. “My dear Teresa,” he writes. “You write the time, and it’s always a big headache,” favor of remaining and 49 percent wishing to direction of a commercial flight that had taken and Manchester with 23. about being torn apart, but I could find no Father Adam Boniecki, editor-in-chief of the withdraw, the poll of polls has never shown a off at Heathrow” on Sunday night, a spokesman “This is not an isolated incident,” said British answer to these words.” progressive Tygodnik Powszechny Catholic lead for the so-called “Brexit” option. said. The Airbus A340 carrying 252 passengers Airline Pilots’ Association (Balpa) general secre- Also in September 1976, he writes: weekly said. and 15 crew from London to New York continued tary Jim McAuslan. “Aircraft are attacked with “Already last year I was looking for an “If she was in love with (Karol) Wojtyla, Engagement gap? over Ireland before requesting to return, flight lasers at an alarming rate and with lasers with answer to these words, ‘I belong to you’, she was most likely not alone,” said Pollsters pointed out that these were early radar showed. A crew member told air traffic ever-increasing strength. “Shining a laser at an and finally, before leaving Poland, I found a Boniecki, himself the author of a detailed days, with major uncertainties hanging over key control there was a “medical issue with one of aircraft puts that aircraft, its crew and all the pas- way-a scapular.” A scapular is a piece of account of the pontiff’s life. Tymieniecka aspects of the referendum. Those include when it the pilots after a laser incident after take-off,” sengers on board at completely unnecessary cloth worn as part of the habit of monastic “translated Karol Wojtyla’s books into will take place, whether some high-profile politi- according to flight radio recording. risk. Modern lasers have the power to blind,” he orders and the then Cardinal Karol Wojtyla English, making his work known to US aca- cians like London Mayor Boris Johnson will cam- A message on Virgin Atlantic’s website con- added. A man was arrested earlier this month gave Tymieniecka his. “The dimension in demics... but her translations caused ten- paign to leave, and what final deal on Britain’s firmed flight VS025 had returned to Heathrow after a green laser was shone into the cockpits of which I accept and feel you everywhere in sion between the two”, Boniecki said. The membership terms Prime Minister David “due to a laser beam incident”. “Following this passing planes over Kent in southeast England, all kinds of situations, when you are close, BBC has only seen John Paul II’s letters, not Cameron will secure from Brussels. Pollsters from incident the First Officer reported feeling unwell,” according to police. The eye of a British Airways and when you are far away,” he adds. Tymieniecka’s side of the correspondence. both sides of the divide also said they expected it said. “The decision was taken by both pilots to pilot was damaged in November by a “military” Edward Stourton, the senior BBC journalist She died in 2014. John Paul II was pope there would be some convergence between the return to Heathrow rather than continue the strength laser shone into his cockpit, according who made the documentary, said more from 1978 to 2005 and was made a saint by two methods as campaigning intensified and transatlantic crossing.” to Balpa. — AFP than 350 letters were found at the National the Catholic Church after his death. — AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 INTERNATIONAL News in brief As Indonesia hunts down Islamic

Punch-trunk love: Chinese State, homegrown jihadis regroup elephant crushes vehicles BEIJING: A heartbroken elephant acted out his thwarted crush on nearly 20 cars near a Chinese nature reserve dur- Jemaah Islamiyah active again, recruiting and collecting funds ing a sulk over the Valentine’s Day weekend, local media reported yesterday. The spurned pachyderm-angry after JAKARTA: As Indonesian counter-terrorism conflict in the Middle East has prompted the $50,000 spent to launch the Bali bombings Islamiyah-linked men who were found with losing a fight for a mate, the official Xinhua news agency forces hunt down supporters of Islamic State revival of Jemaah Islamiyah in Indonesia, the back in 2002. bomb-making materials, guns and books cited rangers as saying-wandered out of a national park following last month’s gun and suicide bomb world’s most populous Muslim nation. Jemaah Islamiyah once had cells across on waging jihad. and onto a road in Yunnan province, proceeding to smash attack in Jakarta, a quiet resurgence is Jemaah Islamiyah had links in the past to al- Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, the But senior security sources say monitor- and dent visitors’ cars in a fit of jealous pique. In a video, unfolding of a homegrown radical network Qaeda, which Islamic State sees as a rival, but Philippines and Thailand, with a goal of ing the activities of Jemaah Islamiyah Zhusunya, a male Asian elephant whose name translates to with a far deadlier track record here. That its resurgence is not being read as intra-jiha- establishing an Islamic state across the members is difficult because much of the “Bamboo Shoot Teeth”, pushed and hit a vehicle, provoking group is Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), whose net- di competition playing out in Southeast Asia. region. Current members say it is no longer group went underground after key figures shouts of surprise from bystanders. The broken-hearted work was until recently thought to have transnational and is focused on Indonesia, were arrested. One source said that, like bull damaged 14 cars during a rampage on Friday and been severely degraded by a crackdown that Organized and well funded where its strategy is to win public backing Islamic State supporters, Jemaah Islamiyah another four over the course of an hour on Sunday, Xinhua put hundreds of its leaders and followers Islamic State stamped its presence in the for its ideology and ambition. “We must be members use social media such as the mes- said. There was no estimate of damages, but it said visitors behind bars after a series of attacks on region for the first time last month when peaceful up to a certain point, otherwise saging app Telegram but tracking them is would be compensated. As of 2015, fewer than 250 wild Western interests in the 2000s. local supporters of the group launched a how will we win public support?” Abu harder. And, legally, little can be done to Asian elephants were believed to exist in China according But Reuters interviews with two active broad-daylight assault at a busy intersec- Rusydan, whom many believe to be its cur- stop the recruitment and education cam- to a study by China’s National Nature Science Foundation, and one former member of Jemaah tion in central Jakarta with explosives and rent leader, told Reuters by telephone. “If paign underway in parts of Indonesia’s primarily in Yunnan in the southwest of the country, part of Islamiyah have revealed that it is active guns. Eight people were killed, four of them the Indonesian government can under- most populous island Java. a habitat that extends into neighboring Laos, Vietnam and again, enlisting new supporters, raising the attackers themselves. Police are on alert stand our message through words then we Abu Rusydan, who spent 3-1/2 years in Myanmar. funds and sending men to train in war-torn for further strikes by Islamic State followers, don’t need to carry out (attacks like) the prison for his role in the Bali bombings, Syria. “JI is currently in preparation level. They but say these are likely to be far from the Bali bombing. When asked why Jemaah lives openly in Central Java where he leads have not done any operations but they are scale of the attack on Paris last November Islamiyah was sending men to Syria, Abu prayers and sermons at his neighborhood Eight family members recruiting people, strengthening their because the group lacks organizational Rusydan said it was “to provide humanitari- mosque. Taufik Andrie, who works with a knowledge, education, network and strength in Indonesia. an services”. deradicalisation non-governmental organi- die as train hits van finances,” said Nasir Abas, a former member. They believe Jemaah Islamiyah’s sophis- zation in Jakarta, says Jemaah Islamiyah is KARACHI: A train crashed into a van at a crossing in “I would not underestimate them.” ticated training, organization, and funding ‘In it for the long haul’ in for the long haul, recruiting very smart southern Pakistan, killing eight people and injuring Jakarta-based security analyst Sidney could pose a bigger security threat. Former Changes to Indonesia’s anti-terrorism and patient people. “They are very careful four from the same family, an official said yesterday. In Jones believes Jemaah Islamiyah’s member- Jemaah Islamiyah member Nasir Abas said law, which would give police more power about not pushing their members to get the latest accident to hit the country’s run-down rail- ship is back to around 2,000, where it was its ranks still include older men who trained to detain suspects pre-emptively and pro- involved in small violent actions,” he said. ways the northbound Fareed Express hit the van near before its most notorious attack, a bombing in Afghanistan in the 1980s and returned hibit Indonesians from joining overseas Analyst Jones believes they are unlikely to Allah Dino Sand, a village 170 kilometers north of on the resort island of Bali that killed over with combat experience and bomb-making militant organizations, are under considera- mount a major attack any time soon as it Karachi. A Sindh provincial health official, Dr Hasan 200 people, most of them Australians. JI sus- skills. Then there is the more ample fund- tion following last month’s attack. A Jakarta could lose them community support. “They Murad Shah, said the dead and the injured in the acci- pects arrested recently were found with ing: Experts estimate that the weapons court last week jailed seven men accused believe deeply they have to be ready ... dent Sunday night were from the same extended fami- caches of arms. Experts say there is no evi- used in last month’s attack on the of having links to Islamic State. Among sev- once the political situation becomes more ly of farmhands. Railway accidents in Pakistan general- dence that the emergence of the ultra-vio- Indonesian capital cost no more than $70, a eral suspected militants rounded up by amenable to make a push for an Islamic ly take place at the unmanned crossings. They lack bar- lent group Islamic State from the crucible of shoestring budget compared to the police since December were four Jemaah state,” she said. —Reuters riers and sometimes signals, leaving commuters to judge for themselves whether it is safe to proceed. At other times vehicles find themselves stuck on the tracks. Train accidents are common in Pakistan, which inherited thousands of miles of track and trains from former colonial power Britain. But the railways have Day of the seen decades of decline due to corruption, misman- agement and lack of investment. Shining Star

ebruary 16 is the birthday of Chairman Kim Jong Il of the National Defense Commission of the FDemocratic People’s Republic of Korea. It was designated as the Day of the Shining Star in 2012. The Shining Star, or Kwangmyongsong in Korean, is the byname of Kim Jong Il. Since his birth, he was called the Shining Star. With a lofty ambition to make Korea a prosperous people’s country true to President Kim Il Sung’s noble intention, he actively KASHMIR: People hold funeral prayers in assisted him in handling the affairs of the Workers’ Party, the state and the People’s Ratnipora for a civilian killed during clashes in the Army and made a lot of achievements worthy of spe- village of Kakpora, south of Srinagar. —AFP cial note in history. His outstanding leadership skills were fully dis- Tense Indian Kashmir shuts played by the close of the last century. The demise of down after civilian deaths President Kim Il Sung, the collapse of the Eastern NEW DELHI: A student makes her speech as Jawaharlal Nehru University students gather for a protest European socialist countries, the allied imperialist SRINAGAR: Indian Kashmir largely shut down yesterday as against the arrest of a student union leader in New Delhi, India yesterday. —AP forces’ desperate moves against the DPRK to put an a general strike was called to protest at the killing of two end to socialism, catastrophic natural disasters that civilians during a gunbattle between troops and suspected hit the country for several consecutive years and the separatist militants. Authorities also imposed a curfew in Indian students protest in thousands; ensuing economic difficulties and food scarcity-the parts of the region’s main city of Srinagar, where hundreds country was in dire straits. of police and paramilitary troops patrolled deserted streets government cracks down on dissent However, Kim Jong Il broke through the difficulties and erected checkpoints to halt any protests. “No one is with unparalleled courage and will. With clairvoyant allowed to leave their home. There are soldiers every- Ministers slam ‘anti-India’ behavior by students wisdom and extraordinary vision he advanced an where,” Umar Ahmed, a student, told AFP by phone from original theory that the army is precisely the Party, his home in Srinagar’s old quarter. Businesses closed NEW DELHI: India’s biggest nationwide student protests in a Anti-India sentiment the state and the people and, on this basis, held high- throughout the region after separatist leaders, placed quarter of a century spread across campuses yesterday after A leader of the student group that is aligned with the BJP said er the banner of Songun. He then made ceaseless under house arrest to prevent them leading protests, the arrest of a student accused of sedition, in the latest battle freedom of expression should not be misused to justify acts that inspections of army units and other relevant sectors. called for a strike, while Kashmir University cancelled stu- with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government over free- could harm the country. “You cannot be an Indian if you celebrate Under his leadership the People’s Army grew up into dent exams. Authorities also suspended train services in dom of expression. Outrage over the arrest of the left-wing the death anniversary of a terrorist,” said Saurabh Sharma, joint an invincible army and the country built up its mili- the region to stop protesters gathering. A female university student leader, who had organized a rally to mark the anniver- secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (All India tary strength in every way, foiling the imperialists’ student was killed on Sunday as troops cordoned off sary of the execution of a Kashmiri separatist, has led to Student Council). Home Minister Rajnath Singh has, meanwhile, adventurous military maneuvers. Kakpora village, 35 kilometers south of Srinagar, suspect- demonstrations in at least 18 universities. In the largest faced ridicule for citing a fake tweet to say that the JNU demon- Kim Jong Il led his people to overcome economic ing the presence of militants. protest, thousands of students and academics at New Delhi’s stration had been backed by Hafiz Saeed, a Pakistani militant difficulties and set up a firm springboard for the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) boycotted class- accused by India of being behind the 2008 attack on Mumbai in building of a thriving nation. Their struggle to this es and erected barricades for a fourth day in an escalating con- which 166 people died. Delhi police circulated the fake tweet at end started with the successful launch of Despite threats, over 100,000 flict with the authorities. the weekend in a warning to students “not to get carried away by Kwangmyongsong 1, the DPRK’s first test satellite, in join Pakistan anti-polio drive “The government does not want students to have a say,” said such seditious and anti-national rhetoric”. A spokesman did not August 1998. Thanks to Kim Jong Il’s broad magna- KARACHI: More than 100,000 health workers fanned Rahila Parween, vice-president of the Delhi unit of the All India answer calls to his mobile phone yesterday seeking comment. nimity of embracing the whole nation and deep love out across Pakistan yesterday, stepping up a drive to Students’ Federation, a left-wing student union. “It wants to dic- “The crackdown signals an utter lack of judgment in the gov- for compatriots, the inter-Korean summit meeting eliminate the polio virus this year from one of its last tate what students think, understand and say.” The incident ernment, where ministers manage to manufacture a national cri- was arranged for the first time in June 2000, 55 years bastions, despite continuing militant threats to vacci- marks another flare-up in an ideological confrontation between sis out of what were always, at best, minor affectations in student after the division of the nation and adopted the June nation teams. Pakistan accounts for more than 70 per- Modi’s nationalist government and left-wing and liberal groups politics,” Pratap Bhanu Mehta, a leading political commentator, 15 Joint Declaration, a milestone for Korea’s reunifica- cent of the world’s cases of polio, a virus that can cause that is prompting critics to compare it with Indira Gandhi’s wrote in the Indian Express newspaper. Since Modi rose to power tion. lifelong paralysis and is now endemic in only two imposition of a state of emergency in the 1970s to crush dis- in May 2014, people in India have been attacked by Hindus The greatest of his achievements was that he countries, Pakistan and Afghanistan. “We have intensi- sent. Members of Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) enraged at reports of cows - sacred in their religion - being developed the DPRK into a nuclear state and a power fied our efforts,” said Asher Ali, a project manager in accused the student leader, Kanhaiya Kumar, of “anti-India” sen- slaughtered, smuggled or consumed. There has been a series of with capabilities of manufacturing, launching and the southern city of Karachi for Rotary International timent. One BJP lawmaker said the university, which has a tradi- attacks on churches, while writers have returned awards in protest controlling artificial satellite. The successful launch of Pakistan, one of the groups involved in the effort. “If tion of left-wing politics, should be shut down. over the government’s silence over a series of murders of secular Kwangmyongsong 3-2, the first applications satellite we take normal action, it will never be eradicated.” “I can assure you that every action we take is to protect our scholars. of the DPRK, on December 12, 2012 was a brilliant Pakistan’s polio cases are declining, with just 54 cases country. Any anti-India activity will not be tolerated,” BJP At least 18 university campuses witnessed protests yesterday. fruition of his achievement and an expression of the of wild polio virus reported last year, down more than President Amit Shah, one of Modi’s closest allies, said at party Students in the eastern city of Kolkata burnt an effigy of Modi and greatest respect of the Korean people for him. It is 80 percent from 2014, when the country suffered a headquarters. Protests spread when Kumar was arrested last left-wing groups in the neighboring state of Odisha planned worth mentioning that the artificial satellites of the large spike in cases. The latest immunization push aims week for sedition, after giving a speech questioning the hang- state-wide demonstrations. Analysts said the student protests DPRK are named after his byname. Together with the to finish vaccinating every child in the country by the ing in 2013 of Mohammad Afzal Guru over his role in the 2001 were the most widespread in India since the self-immolation of a Day of the Shining Star, Kim Jong Il’s life and achieve- end of May. Efforts to eliminate polio in Pakistan have attack on parliament. Activists have long questioned Guru’s young Indian in 1990 after the government ruled in favor of pro- ments will be engraved in the minds of the Korean been complicated in recent years, as polio workers conviction, and India’s Supreme Court has described the evi- viding affirmative action to the lower castes in higher education. people and progressive mankind. - Material from the Embassy of the Democratic have faced attacks by militants who say the health dence against him as circumstantial. Scuffles erupted outside a “We are witnessing liberal India, particularly young people who People’s Republic of Korea in Kuwait teams are Western spies, or that the vaccines they New Delhi courthouse between lawyers and students where are usually more idealistic, fighting back,” said Satish Misra, a polit- administer are intended to sterilize children. Kumar, 28, was to appear before a judge yesterday. ical analyst at the Observer Research Foundation. —Reuters

Cambodian property tycoon Pakistan’s university reopens after attack jailed for assault on TV star PHNOM PENH: A Cambodian court yesterday jailed a PESHAWAR: The university in northwest Pakistan continue to carry their own licensed weapons as attend school or were made to stay home by scared property tycoon for a vicious assault on an actress at a where Taleban gunmen killed at least 20 people last long as they do not display them in classrooms, parents. “I know the university has been opened Phnom Penh restaurant, an attack that horrified the public month reopened for classes yesterday with teachers Marwat said. A chemistry professor who was killed today, but my parents didn’t allow me to go today,” after it was caught on CCTV. Footage of the July assault on - but not students - allowed to carry weapons. during last month’s assault had been lauded as a said student Ihsanullah Khan. “I am not afraid and Ek Socheata, better known by her stage name SaSa, Pakistani Taleban militants have threatened more hero for firing back at the attackers. But Marwat said will definitely join my friends very soon.” sparked outrage in a country where the rich are often seen assaults on schools and universities since the Jan. 20 the school decided to reject a request from some Vice chancellor Marwat said the university had to be beyond the reach of the law. Wealthy businessman attack on Bacha Khan University in Charsadda, fuel- teachers to issue them firearms. “After taking what- arranged counseling sessions for students and for Sok Bun fled to Singapore after the attack, but returned to Cambodia after calls from strongman Prime Minister Hun ing a growing sense of insecurity in the country. ever security measures were possible for protection recreational trips elsewhere in the country. The Sen to give himself up. He was arrested on arrival at the The attack had reminded Pakistanis of the horrors of students and faculty members, we opened the Pakistani army said the attack on the university was airport and charged with violent conduct. Sok Bun admit- that took place a little over a year earlier, when mili- university today for classes,” Marwat said. masterminded by Umar Mansoor, a Pakistani ted guilt and begged the public to forgive him. Yesterday tants massacred 134 pupils at an army school just 19 Students who owned weapons had to submit Taleban militant based in Afghanistan, who was a Phnom Penh court sentenced the tycoon to three years miles away, in Peshawar, the main city in Khyber them at the entrance of the campus, he said. also blamed for the Peshawar school massacre. The in prison. He will serve 10 months in jail while the rest of Pakhtunkhwa province. Before Monday’s reopening Firearms are easily available in northwest Pakistan, Pakistani Taleban is fighting to topple the govern- the sentence is suspended, Judge Sor Lina ruled. The the university took extra security measures, and gun ownership is ingrained in the culture of ment and install a strict interpretation of Islamic property magnate, who was not present in court due to installing new CCTV cameras, hiring more armed Pashtun tribes of the region. Many of the returning law. Yesterday, an IED blast in Pakistan’s volatile sickness, was also fined about $1,500. Violence against guards, and raising the height of boundary walls, students arrived at the campus with their parents South Waziristan region on the border with women is common in Cambodia but the public exposure vice chancellor Fazal Rahim Marwat said. and relatives, who waited while they went to class- Afghanistan left one paramilitary soldier dead and of the attack struck a nerve in the country. The university also decided that teachers could es. Several, however, were still too traumatized to three injured. —Reuters

NEWS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Students of St Scholastica’s College gesture the “number one” sign as they dance to take part in the “One Billion Rising” campaign in Manila yesterday. The campaign, the fifth to be held since 2012, calls for the end of all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls. The movement refers to UN statistics that one in three women, about one billion globally, will be raped or beaten in their lifetime. —AFP Four US reporters arrested in Bahrain

DUBAI: Bahrain has arrested four American a largely Shiite community south of the capi- country between Thursday and Friday on A statement on the state-run Bahrain News blamed regional Shiite power Iran for stirring journalists covering the anniversary of its 2011 tal that has seen repeated protests, circulated tourist visas. Agency said the journalists had “been afford- up the demonstrations, though a govern- uprising, witnesses said yesterday. Bahraini on social media, including one image of a “At least some of the arrestees were in the ed full legal rights in line with the kingdom’s ment-sponsored investigation into the unrest police said it detained four Americans for pro- woman being filmed while speaking to a country as members of the international procedures and constitution while investiga- said there wasn’t “a discernable link” between viding “false information that they were masked protester. media but had not registered with the con- tions continue.” Bahraini officials did not the protests and the Islamic Republic based tourists” while also alleging one took part in On Sunday, police arrested a photographer cerned authority and were involved in illegal respond to questions from the AP about the on the information the government gave an attack on its officers. The US Embassy in working with the group, the two witnesses activities,” the statement said, without elabo- arrests. The 2011 protests in Bahrain, which is them. Manama said in a statement yesterday it was said. Later that night, police surrounded the rating on what those activities were. Bahrain home to the US Navy’s 5th Fleet, were the Bahrain’s government committed to a “aware of the arrest of four US citizens in area with checkpoints and arrested the other requires international journalists to obtain largest of the Arab Spring wave of demonstra- number of reforms in the wake of the 2011 Bahrain” on Sunday but that it could not dis- three, the witnesses said. The witnesses spoke special media visas before entering Bahrain to tions to rock the Gulf Arab states. They were demonstrations, but low-level unrest con- cuss the case due to privacy concerns. to AP on condition of anonymity for fear of work. The island kingdom allows citizens of driven by the country’s Shiite majority, who tinues, particularly in Shiite communities. The identities of the journalists and being arrested. An Interior Ministry statement many countries, including the US, to get a demanded greater political rights. Small groups of activists frequently clash whether they worked for a specific media out- alleged one of the four journalists “was wear- tourist visa on arrival. Obtaining a media visa But while changes swept across the region, with riot police and bombs occasionally tar- let was not immediately clear. Bahraini police ing a mask and participating in attacks on takes several days if granted, and activists say Bahrain’s own protests found themselves put get security forces. Hundreds of Bahraini said one was a woman and three were men. police alongside other rioters in Sitra.” The Bahrain has denied media visas for some jour- down after Saudi Arabia and the United Arab youths protested Sunday on the fifth Photographs of the reporters working in Sitra, statement also said the journalists entered the nalists since the 2011 protests. Emirates sent in reinforcements. Bahrain anniversary of the uprising. — AP

Govt denies any plan to cut wages amid... ‘Silk Road’ train in Tehran Continued from Page 1 number of expatriate marginal workers. These decisions Continued from Page 1 Chinese President Xi Jinping and Iranian President Hassan will be linked to the mechanism of recruiting foreign Rouhani agreed last month to build economic ties worth up to In a related development, HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah laborers from abroad and the duration of their stay in The journey was 30 days shorter than the sea voyage from $600 billion within the next 10 years. It came during a visit to Iran Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah yesterday received the head of the the country, the minister said. Shanghai to the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, according to Aqayi. by Xi, the first by a Chinese president in 14 years, and just days Kuwait Chamber of Commerce Ali Al-Ghanem, who said Subaih said a decision will be issued to ban residency The railway will not stop in Tehran “as we are planning to extend after sanctions against Tehran were lifted under a historic nuclear they discussed the current economic situation in the transfers from cooperatives, and transfers will be limited the railway to Europe in future,” generating more income for Iran deal with world powers. wake of the sharp decline in oil prices. He said among to other cooperatives just like the agriculture, fishing, from passing trains, he added. The train will leave every month Xi’s signature foreign policy initiative known as “One Belt One the topics raised was how to find alternatives for oil rev- shepherding and industry sectors. She said the plan to and the frequency will be increased if necessary, Aqayi said. The Road” is touted as a revival of ancient Silk Road trade routes. The enues. halt transfer from cooperatives came after statistics train is run by private companies using existing routes, Iranian Silk Road is an ancient network of commercial land and sea Separately, the court of appeals yesterday overturned showed large numbers of workers have transferred from railway company spokesman Sadegh Sakari told AFP. routes, named for the lucrative Chinese silk trade, that were cen- According to Iranian media, more than a third of Iran’s foreign tral to business across the Asian continent connecting China to a two-year jail sentence and a large fine against former co-ops to the private sector, adding that 40 percent of trade is with China, which is Tehran’s top customer for oil exports. the Mediterranean Sea. — AFP minister of electricity and water Ahmad Al-Jassar and 15 corruption has been eradicated from the cooperatives current and former senior ministry officials, and acquit- sector. ted them. The lower court had passed the sentence after “We will continue to organize the labor market and convicting the officials of squandering public funds by limit the influx of marginal labor and concentrate on Saleh hails ties with IAEA approving a multi-million contract in 2007 that turned trained technical labor,” Subaih said, warning inspection out to be bad for the ministry. After the lower court campaigns will continue in order to arrest violating Continued from Page 1 well as nuclear applications and sciences with the main goal passed the verdict, Jassar submitted his resignation and workers in cooperation with the interior ministry. Subaih of eradicating poverty, protecting human health, saving later quit the Cabinet, barely a few months after taking denied any injustice or inequity against expats who are IAEA Director General Yukia Amano said IAEA’s efforts power and water and easing climate change effects, he said. up the post. At the time of approval of the contract, deported from the country, saying deportation is for vio- were at the forefront of the world’s moves to develop knowl- The nuclear watchdog is currently seeking to develop its Jassar was a top official in the ministry. lating the labor law, and “despite this, we are keen on edge and modern technology and provide valuable services labs to cope with modern advancements, he said, thanking Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Al-Subaih giving them all their rights”. She said the goal is to organ- to member states through research programs and activities. Kuwait for its recent donation of €3 million, along with its meanwhile said yesterday that the ministry will shortly ize the labor market and punish violators, be they work- The IAEA offers special programs in the fields of food, agricul- regular contributions to the IAEA’s technical cooperation issue a number of decisions that would greatly limit the ers, employers or even colluding officials. ture, human health and environmental managements as fund. — KUNA TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 ANALYSIS

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Focus Russia gets cold; Soviet neighbors catch pneumonia

By OlzhasAuyezov and Andrei Makhovsky

efore he left Russia at the end of 2014, Sayidhuja Rizoyev used to make up to $40 a day as a construction Bworker. Then his boss decided not to renew his con- tract, and he returned home to ex-Soviet Tajikistan. Now the 31-year-old father of one earns about $6-7 a day selling small items such as batteries in the capital Dushanbe. “So far, this has been enough to make ends meet,” said Rizoyev. The collapse in world oil prices to 12-year lows has crip- pled the economy of Russia, which shrank last year by nearly 4 percent, while its rouble currency has lost almost 60 per- cent of its value against the dollar since mid-2014. The small handful of other former Soviet states that also export oil have also been hit: police in Azerbaijan, which posted some of the Bigger role for Russia strategists in Syria fastest economic growth rates in the world a decade ago dur- ing an oil boom, have lately had to use force to break up By Mariam Karouny Russian officers and military experts had helped in the plan- (with militants) when they can, of course - in Douma and protests as growth has stalled. ning and directed the offensive in Latakia. According to other areas,” he said, in reference to an area east of But for ordinary civilians, the economic damage may be hile Russian fighter planes pound rebel positions their account, the Russians were in charge of artillery fire Damascus. severest of all in the outposts of the former Soviet Union that on the battlefield in Syria, Russian military strate- and provided artillery cover, not just air strikes. “The coast “Sometimes it is the militants who request mediation by have no energy resources of their own to sell, stayed poor Wgists are playing a far more subtle role in support battle was theirs,” said one of the sources. the Russians,” he said. Those wishing to relocate wanted while Russia grew richer and now lack stashes of accumulat- of President Bashar Al-Assad. Several sources - on both sides A Syrian military source, speaking on condition of guarantees of safe passage to rebel strongholds, and those ed petrodollars to cushion the impact. The oil price crash has of the battle lines - have told Reuters in interviews conduct- anonymity to Reuters in Damascus last week, said the wishing to stay wanted to be sure they wouldn’t be killed been felt in countries as far-flung as Tajikistan, Moldova, ed over the past two months that Russian advisers have Russians were partners, but he denied they had a leader- later on, he said. According to the non-Syrian sources inter- Belarus and Armenia. Kyrgyzstan’s som currency dropped been involved in drawing up plans to secure Damascus, ship role. “The Russian role in participation, in planning and viewed by Reuters, Russian advisers orchestrated two deals 22.4 percent against the dollar. Georgia’s economic growth Assad’s seat of power. Those interviewed by Reuters, includ- executing military operations is being reinforced all the in which hardline Islamist fighters were evacuated from the nearly halved last year. ing non-Syrian military officials fighting alongside Assad’s time. It is participation, not management,” said the source. south towards areas their groups control in the northern For many of the small countries at the fringes of the old forces, said Russia’s plans to buttress Damascus involve “The Russians take part in the ground and air planning, but and central provinces. Soviet empire, the main export has been citizens, who toil weakening rebel forces in the south of the country between at the end, the Syrian officers are the ones who know the One of the non-Syrian military sources said the Russians abroad mainly in Russia as informal labourers. Such workers the capital and Jordan. The aim is to reduce the rebels’ land, the fronts, the geography better.” worked “in the shadows” to facilitate the ceasefire deals. In have lost jobs or seen the remittances they send home drop in value. chances of launching a major offensive. Insurgents interviewed by Reuters, including a local some cases the Russians operated as guarantors for the The Russian Defence Ministry did not respond to written commander from the Ahrar al-Sham group, also said that deals. Dozens of cars left southern towns of Syria in Poltiical Tensions questions for this article. Russia has said it has no ground Russian troops took part in the fighting. Moscow says that December carrying fighters from Nusra Front with their A tiny country in central Asia on the old Soviet frontier troops in Syria beyond those protecting its bases. Russia its main goal in Syria is to target hardline Islamist groups families to the northern province of Idlib which is under with Afghanistan, Tajikistan relies on remittances from work- does concede it has trainers and advisers on the ground, which pose a global threat, including to Russia. Islamic State control of an alliance of rebels including Nusra Front. Weeks ers abroad for about 45 percent of its gross domestic prod- but only in an educational and advisory capacity. Russia’s commander Abu Omar al-Shishani is a Chechen. He is later a convoy left Hajar al-Aswad and Yarmouk camp areas uct, according to the International Monetary Fund. Migrant influence in military planning is already evident, rebel fight- believed to be leading thousands of fighters most of them near Damascus carrying fighters and families from Islamic workers in Russia often have put up with sordid living condi- ers and the non-Syrian military officials say. from Chechnya and Central Asia. State to the group’s stronghold of Raqqa. tions, racial discrimination and shakedowns by officials, but it They say Russian experts played a major role in a Syrian A second source who was informed of the deals said the is worth it because they earn more money than would be army offensive at the turn of the year in the western coastal Ceasefires fighters were given safe passage. The aim was to empty possible at home. province of Latakia, home to the Alawite population of Pro-government sources say the Russian role has these areas of hardline Islamists so clearing the way for the That calculation is now changing. Abduzohir Soatov said which Assad is part. That offensive helped pave the way for expanded to include facilitating local ceasefires in rebel- government to strike deals with the remaining rebels. “The he had been working in Russia but came home because of the Syrian army to push towards the Turkish border, cutting held areas around Damascus, with the aim of creating a Russians want all the battles to be focused in the north, the slowdown in the Russian economy. “It no longer makes the insurgents’ supply lines from Turkey. secure buffer around the capital. Syrian Minister of National they want the south and Damascus and the coastal line all sense,” he said. Tajikistan’s somoni currency lost 24 percent of Reconciliation Ali Haidar described the process as purely neutralized. Ultimately they are working towards achieving its value against the dollar last year according to the official Degrees of Involvement Syrian even if there had at times been Russian help. “The a wider political solution,” said the source. The Syrian gov- exchange rate, and more on the cash market. Central bank The extent of Russian involvement on the battlefield is truth is that since the presence of the Russians on Syrian ernment and its allies accuse the opposition and the insur- reserves cover only 1.7 months of imports, a precariously low disputed, however. Two military officials, neither of them land, they can play the role of mediator in some areas,” he gents of blocking efforts to end the fighting and reach a level by international standards. Syrian but both fighting alongside the Syrian army, said said at his offices in Damascus. “The Russians make contact political deal. —Reuters Economic woes translate into concerns about political stability in countries that mostly failed to build democracies after the Soviet Union split up. Tajikistan is still run by its Soviet-era Communist boss, President Imomali Rakhmon, Crimea Tatars resist Russian rule whose allies plan to hold a referendum that will allow him to run for president for an unlimited number of terms. He faced a coup attempt last September led by his former deputy By Nataliya Vasilyeva banned all trade. “Everyone, including Ukraine, left ment, Fukala spoke to the AP in the home of Officials in Crimea in charge of ethnic minorities defence minister, who then died in a gun battle along with us with no other choice,” said Islyamov, whose friends in a neighboring village. did not respond to the AP’s requests seeking inter- 37 of his supporters. Such political tensions “are aggravated lnara Asanova lives alone with her four small assets in Moscow and Crimea have been seized. Both the border blockade and the power out- views and comment. Officials in the Crimean gov- by the uncertain economic outlook,” said Deirdre Tynan, children because her husband, an ethnic “Most of us don’t want to go to war - we want to ages have put a big hole in the Kremlin budget at ernment have accused Tatar leaders who opposed Central Asia project director at the International Crisis Group ETatar, is in jail. Last April, when she was seven make sandwiches, take our children to school, go a time when plummeting oil prices have left the annexation of betraying the interests of the (ICG) think tank. months pregnant, police grabbed him from the shopping - but we’ve been forced to do this.” Moscow with little to spare on shoring up its Tatars and being agents of Ukraine. Under Russian streets of their village because he had taken part in Deliberate power outages have also become newest acquisition. Russia had to fly in supplies law, people can be punished for calling for the Farm Machinery a Tatar protest against Russian annexation of widespread. In November, unknown attackers and thousands of generators, and speed up the return of Crimea to Ukraine. Nearly 4,500 km away in Belarus, on the edge of the Crimea. She is not allowed to visit him, so she trav- blew up electricity pylons in Ukraine and tied construction of underwater power lines. European Union, similar economic hardship is being felt. The els to every court hearing. Once she took 7-month- Crimean Tatar flags to them, leaving 2 million peo- Islyamov is also working to set up a “battalion” Repression economy of the country, Russia’s closest ally, shrank about 4 old Mustafa, so her husband could glimpse the ple without heating. No one claimed responsibility of 500 Tatar activists to be stationed just a few The Crimean Tatars have a long history of percent last year while its currency lost nearly half its value child as he was led from the police van to the for the explosions, but Tatar activists were suspect- miles from the border. Tatar activists in military repression. In May 1944, all 200,000 Tatars, who against the dollar. In the first 11 months of 2015, Belarus sent courtroom. The court has refused to release him on ed. Tatars in Crimea cheered the power cuts, say- fatigues, some of them carrying automatic then made up a third of Crimea’s population, exports to Russia worth $3 billion, compared to $3.8 billion bail, describing him as a flight risk. “They say he will ing the blackout returned the world’s attention to weapons, now stand in the winter cold by the were put on trains and shipped to Central Asia in over the same period the year before. Production of combine run away. But where to?” said Elnara, a meek young the situation in Crimea. roadside of their tent camp. They used to search the space of three days. Thousands died during harvesters, traditionally sold to Russian farmers, was down 80 woman. She points to her children. “We live in the cars crossing into Crimea and back until blockade the grueling journey or starved to death in the percent last year. country. You can’t survive here without a husband.” Hardships leaders announced that Ukrainian border guards barren steppes upon arrival. Unlike other peo- “The state, companies, state enterprises have some accu- Two years after Russia seized Crimea from Ukraine, Muzafar Fukala, community leader of the vil- and customs officials would now do so instead. ples deported during World War II by Soviet dic- mulated capital, which for now allows them to postpone the President Vladimir Putin touts the move as a his- lage of Voinka, said losing light was “nothing” com- In November, Chechen intelligence officers tator Joseph Stalin, the Tatars were not allowed descent into crisis. But the reserves won’t last for long,” said toric achievement, looking on with a satisfied smile pared to the hardships Tatars had survived in the called on Islyamov’s 17-year-old son in Moscow, to return to their native land until the 1980s. Yaroslav Romanchuk, head of the Mizes analytical centre. from countless billboards across the peninsula. past. “I’m prepared to live in a complete blackout where he studied, and threatened him unless he A visit to a Tatar home today opens a window “The number of bankruptcies this year will at some point However, overwhelming opposition from the until this scum leaves,” he said, referring to sup- denounced his father publicly. Several hours later, to a parallel world far from the throngs of flag- start to increase exponentially.” A Belarussian businessman, Muslim Tatar ethnic minority puts a crack in this porters of the annexation. To avoid police harass- Islyamov arranged for his son to leave Russia. waving Russians who gave Putin a Hollywood who spoke on condition of anonymity in a country where for- picture of unanimous support, as evidenced in star reception on the streets of the Black Sea eign media are treated with suspicion, said the crisis in Russia interviews with more than two dozen Tatars across port of Sevastopol on his visit last summer. Tatars was already helping push down wages, which would affect Crimea. And the resistance appears to be growing. here all watch ATR, a Crimean Tatar channel consumer spending. Many described the intimidation of communi- owned by Islyamov, which was banished from “For me, the moment of truth came when I saw a job ad a ty leaders, the closure of Tatar language classes Crimea and now broadcasts from exile in main- few days ago. A serious company was looking for a reason- and a general atmosphere of mistrust of Tatar resi- land Ukraine. They talk of “better times” and a ably competent specialist and offered a (monthly) salary of dents. The AP conducted some interviews at other future “victory,” alluding to the eventual return of $200,” said the businessman. “Just two or three years ago we people’s homes because of worries about police Crimea to Ukraine. In almost equal measure, could not find a secretary for $500,” he said. —Reuters surveillance. The majority of the people in Crimea Crimean Tatars feel betrayed by Kiev, after are ethnic Russian and support Russia’s annexa- Ukrainian troops stationed on the peninsula sur- tion. The nearly 300,000 Crimean Tatars, who make rendered to Russian forces in February 2014 up less than 15 percent of the population, are without putting up any resistance. Later on, All articles appearing on these Muslims, although largely secular. Community most of these troops took Russian citizenship leaders say repression has left young people fum- and joined the Russian armed forces. pages are the personal opinion of ing, risking their radicalization along the lines of Left on their own, the Tatars at first made a the writers. Kuwait Times takes no the restive North Caucasus, a patchwork of pre- foray into the new Crimean government. responsibility for views expressed dominantly Muslim republics in southern Russia. Islyamov, who had Russian citizenship, was dis- therein. Kuwait Times invites read- Tatar activists are already fighting back. Before patched in April 2014 by the Mejlis, the Tatars’ Russia annexed Crimea, Lenur Islyamov was a busi- self-governing body, to become a deputy prime ers to voice their opinions. Please nessman with family and assets in Moscow. Last minister. Less than two months later, he send submissions via email to: opin- fall, he traded his business suits for military-style resigned. He said Russian leaders were not inter- [email protected] or via snail clothing to lead a resistance movement that ested in Tatar problems and every conversation mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. imposed a blockade on the peninsula in retaliation turned into a dispute about Russian supremacy. The editor reserves the right to edit for Russia’s persecution of the Tatars. In this photo taken Jan 23, 2016, a Crimean tatar activist stands guard at concrete “We saw that Ukraine had ditched us, that it was In September, the activists began stopping blocks at a checkpoint in the village of Chonhar in the Kherson region in southern inevitable that Russia was going to swallow any submission as necessary. goods from crossing into Crimea. Three months Ukraine close to the de-facto border with Crimea. —AP Crimea and the global community was doing later, the Ukrainian government stepped in and nothing,” he said. —AP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 SPORTS

Ex-Russian anti-doping Man Utd to name stand Defar runs year’s chief Kamayev dead after Bobby Charlton fastest 3,000m MOSCOW: The former executive director of Russia’s anti-doping agency LONDON: England great Bobby Charlton is to have the South Stand BOSTON: Ethiopian two-time Olympic champion Meseret Defar ran the (RUSADA) Nikita Kamayev has died two months after resigning his post, the at Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium named after him, 60 year’s fastest 3,000 metres as she returned to the track for the first time Tass news agency reported on Sunday. The report, citing the former general years on from his debut for the club. The Premier League side said on in more than two years at the Boston indoor grand prix on Sunday. The director of the scandal-hit agency Ramil Khabriev, said it appeared Monday that the formal naming would take place at the home game 2004 and 2012 Olympic 5,000 metres gold medallist romped Kamayev’s death had been caused by a heart attack. “He against Everton on April 2. Charlton, a United director, joined the to victory in 8 minutes, 30.83 seconds in her first race complained of heart ache after a skiing session. He has club as an apprentice in 1953 and made his debut in October 1956. since 2013. The birth of her daughter in 2014 and never complained about heart problems, at least to me. The 1966 World Cup winner made 758 appearances for the club, injuries in 2015 had kept her off the track. “I didn’t Maybe his wife knew about such problems,” it quoted scoring a record 249 goals. “Bobby is quite simply, the most iconic have confidence after a long break, didn’t know my Khabriev as saying. Russia was suspended from interna- figure in English football history. A player, a diplomat, a gentleman shape, but running 8:30 in my first race - I’m so hap- tional athletics last November after a special commis- and a tireless worker for charity, he represents everything that is py,” said the 32-year-old. Six other 2016 bests were sion of the World Anti-Doping Agency exposed wide- good about football and Manchester United,” said executive vice- set in the meeting including New Zealander Nick spread state-sponsored cheating and corruption. chairman Ed Woodward in a statement. The South Stand contains the Willis’ 3:53.27 victory in the mile and 19-year-old Kamayev and Khabriev stood down from their positions only original part of the 1910 stadium infrastructure, as well as the Ethiopian Dawit Seyaum’s 4:01.86 in the along with the rest of the senior RUSADA manage- directors’ box and old players’ changing rooms. The North Stand was women’s 1,500 metres. American Kurt Roberts ment in mid-December as Russia began named after the club’s most successful manager Alex Ferguson in upped the 2016 shot put best to 21.57 working on lifting the ban in time for its 2011 to mark his 25 years in charge. A statue of the ‘United Trinity’ of metres and compatriot Natasha Hastings athletes to compete at the Rio de Janeiro Charlton, George Best and Denis Law-the players who helped United delivered another top mark in the women’s Olympics in August. —Reuters become the first English club to win the European Cup in 1968 — 300 metres, 36.25 seconds. —Reuters already stands outside Old Trafford. —Reuters Return of Imura boosts Japan’s synchro hopes

TOKYO: The return of Masayo Imura, known on social media for her “betrayal” of her as the “mother” of Japanese synchronised homeland. However, Imura returned home to swimming, has bolstered the country’s hopes take over as head coach in 2014 and the ahead of this year’s Olympic Games to such switch reaped immediate dividends. The an extent the team will be considered “fail- Japanese took bronze at the World ures” if they return from Rio without a medal. Championships in both team and duet events Japan won bronze when the team event last year-success which captain Yukiko Inui was added to the programme at the 1996 said had jacked up expectations for Rio. Atlanta Olympics, and took silver in Sydney “Now we’re in a position where if we don’t and in Athens four years later. They also won take a medal, we’ve failed,” Inui told reporters duet bronze from 1984 to 1992 and silver in poolside after a recent practice session. 2000 and 2004. At the Beijing Games in 2008, “So we’re under a lot of pressure. The Japan took bronze in the duet but failed to Olympics will be even tougher.” To prepare for Olympic preliminaries in Rio this March, the team-which usually train and compete indoors-underwent rigorous training in Guam to acclimatise to an outdoor pool for Rio. “We practiced until we were satisfied,” said Imura, who is known for her hard training methods. “The swimmers had excuses written all over their faces: ‘the wind is too strong’ or ‘the rain is so heavy we can’t open our eyes’ or ‘the wind blew too suddenly.’ Many excuses.” Imura’s tough approach was on full display at the training session, where she paced pool- side as the team swam and flipped in a rou- tine based loosely on Japanese myths, occa- sionally shouting “No! You’re doing it all wrong!” While some athletes and visitors planning to come to the Olympics have expressed concern about Zika, a virus linked to birth defects in newborns, the Japanese swimmers did not seem overly concerned. “Synchronised swimming athletes don’t have the time to go out and relax in places CRANS MONTANA: Mikaela Shiffrin, of the United States, center, winner of an alpine ski, women’s World Cup slalom, poses on the podium with like parks,” Imura said, though she added the second placed France’s Nastasia Noens, left, and third placed Canada’s Marie-Michele Gagnon, in Crans Montana, Switzerland, yesterday.— AP Masayo Imura team is getting information from Brazil on potential measures such as mosquito repel- medal in the team event, while China, under lent. Imura’s guidance, finished third. Team captain Inui said the group was talk- Shiffrin wins WC slalom The Chinese then went one better in ing more about their routines and practice London with silver while Japan failed to make than Zika. “We’ll leave the worrying to our the podium in either category. Imura’s role in coaches and focus on what we do best,” she China’s success prompted scathing criticism added. — Ruters race after 2 months out

Snooker star declines maximum CRANS-MONTANA: Mikaela Shiffrin is defi- Colorado, and both by big margins, before the was thinking, ‘Oh it doesn’t look too bad.’ Then nitely back. Two perfect runs saw the training mishap in Sweden. She has won her I closed my eyes for about a minute, visualiz- 147 break as bonus ‘too cheap’ American win a women’s World Cup slalom by last six slaloms stretching back to last season. ing the course, and then when I opened them almost a half-second yesterday in her first race This was Shiffrin’s 18th win on the circuit, again I was like, ‘Hey, where did the slope Ronnie O’Sullivan was a few pots away from was 10 grand and I just thought that’s a bit after two months out with injury. moving her level with Tamara McKinney for go?’” achieving perfection in a frame of snooker. too cheap really,” said O’Sullivan, nicknamed Crossing the line smiling after her second the second-most wins by an American World Cup slalom leader Frida Hansdotter But, with a maximum break of 147 in his “The Rocket.” “To make a maxi, it’s such a run, Shiffrin turned to look at the timings woman. She turns 21 next month. Leading finished sixth, 5.89 behind Shiffrin. The Swede grasp, the sport’s most charismatic player massive achievement, and if they’re going to board then put her head in her hands at the after the first run, Shiffrin finished 0.45 sec- has 545 points, 99 more than second-best turned down the chance to complete the pay us 10 grand, I think it’s worth a bit more most coveted feat in snooker because he felt than that. realization she had won. “I came in blind a lit- onds faster than Nastasia Noens of France and Veronika Velez-Zuzulova of Slovakia, who was the prize money of 10,000 pounds ($14,500) “Once the prize goes up a bit, I’ll go for tle bit,” she said. “I knew my training skiing 0.50 ahead of Marie-Michele Gagnon of 10th. Shiffrin, who has won the past three was “too cheap.” the 147.” Winning the frame clinched a 4-1 was some of the best I was doing but I just Canada as several of her rivals struggled in titles, is 245 points behind Hansdotter. There In the latest controversial episode in victory over Barry Pinches, and O’Sullivan wasn’t sure. It was kind of close your eyes and difficult conditions. are only two O’Sullivan’s colorful career, he chose to pot grinned broadly as he left the arena in the go, see what happens at the end of the run. Three of the top 10 after the first run did slalom races left along with a parallel event the pink ball off the next-to-last red - instead Welsh capital of Cardiff. The incident revived “I didn’t know what to expect from the rest not finish: Michelle Gisin, Petra Vlhova and this month in Stockholm that counts in the of continuing his bid for the perfect break memories of a frame O’Sullivan played at the of the girls. I was just watching on television Erin Mielzynski. Lila Lapanja of the United slalom standings. “The slalom globe’s out. I’m with the more difficult black. The decision World Open in Glasgow in 2010. On that and wasn’t sure of the pace. I could see it but States also skied out. “That was a tough race, going to focus on GS a little bit now, try to see during a first-round match at the Welsh occasion, he just needed to pot the black it’s different from being there.” It was Shiffrin’s tough for all the girls,” Shiffrin said. “Some of how quickly I can get back, see how many Open yesterday drew a few jeers from the ball to complete a 147 when he decided to first race since tearing a ligament in her right the girls had really bad visibility. I had OK visi- points I can get overall,” Shiffrin said. crowd for the most popular player in the end the frame, on a break of 140. But after knee in December. The Olympic and world bility, I was struggling to see but at least I Shiffrin is targeting the super G and super sport. the match, the referee pleaded with him to slalom champion started skiing again only could see a bit. I’m relieved with the luck of combined in Soldeu at the end of the The five-time world champion went on to “do it for the fans,” so O’Sullivan returned to two weeks ago. having better visibility. month, but added, “That depends how train- clear the table for a break of 146. “I knew it the table and sank the black.—AP Shiffrin won two slaloms in Aspen, “I was at the top, looking at the start and I ing goes.” — AP KTA concludes U-18 juniors’ tournament

KUWAIT: Kuwait Tennis Association concluded the U-18 juniors’ tournament, as Salmiya club claimed first place, Yarmouk second and Kazema third. Technical Director of KTA Abbas Al-Busairi attended the final match along with other fans of the game. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 SPORTS

PAS shooting tourney concludes

By Abdellatif Sharaa All” Waleed Al-Sultan. Mansour Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, his Results of the tournament are as fol- and Mohammad Adel. The tournament was held over three deputies and all employees there for lows: KUWAIT: The second Public Authority days from 12th to 14th February in the their efforts in the interest of sports in 50 meter rifle prone - women: for Sports Shooting Tournament con- 50m pistol and rifle, as well as archery. general and shooting in particular. 50 meter air rifle, prone: Amal Al-Asem, Neeran Irzouqi and cluded on Sunday at Sheikh Sabah Al- Obaid Al-Osaimi said shooting com- Al-Osaimi lauded the large participa- Khalid Al-Subaie, Abdallah Al-Harby Heba Irzouqi. Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex. munity is happy to organize the PAS tion of shooters from the club and and Mishref Al-Daihani. The ceremony was attended by tournament which saw strong competi- National Guard, as this tournament is Olympic archery: President of Kuwait and Arab Shooting tion between shooters, and that the being held while the club is preparing 50 meter pistol: Bader Saleh, Faisal Al-Rashidi and Federations Eng Duaij Al-Otaibi, KSSF KSSC and KSSF highly appreciates the for HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Hassan Al-Mulla, Saad Mane, Ali Al- Abdallah Al-Harmy. and ASF Secretary General Obaid Al- role of Information Minister, State Al-Jaber Al-Sabah Sixth Annual Shooting Mutairi. Osaimi and Kuwait Shooting Sport Club Minister for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Grand Prix which begins from 1st to 8th Compound archery: Vice-president Mohammad Mustafa Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah, March, with the participation of nearly 50 meter rifle 3 positions: Faisal Mislem, Ahmad Al-Shatti and Karam and PAS supervisor of “Sports For Director General of PAS Sheikh Ahmad 45 countries. Abdallah Al-Harby, Khalid Al-Subaie Amer Al-Hajiri.

Jones looks to Joseph as Ireland loom for England

ROME: While Eddie Jones has a “pretty tal point of view,” said Italy captain Sergio good idea” of his squad for a crucial Six Parisse. Nations clash against Ireland in a fortnight, The speed and alertness of England’s there is a pretty good chance Jonathan replacements was soon felt, and error- Joseph will be in his starting XV. stricken Italy were hastened to a chasten- England, who flopped out of the World ing defeat when Joseph added another Cup as hosts last autumn, saw Joseph score two and Owen Farrell one. three second-half tries on his second con- For Jones, who was manager of Australia secutive start as Jones’ men followed last when Jonny Wilkinson’s last-minute drop week’s battling 15-9 win over Scotland at goal secured England the 2003 World Cup, Murrayfield with a 40-9 dismantling of Italy it was all part of the plan. in Rome. “We weren’t expecting to score a lot of Having escaped the injuries so dreaded points in the first half, we were expecting against the usually physical Italians, to do that in the second half and that’s how England are now set for two weeks of it turned out,” he said. intense focus on beating Ireland in a fort- “We could have easily scored 60 points night. out there.” “We’ve had two games and two wins Italy’s only real complaint was the mid- and no major injuries, so we’re sailing along air tackle dished out to Luke McLean by pretty well at the moment,” said Jones, who James Haskell, but Parisse said it could not became England’s first foreign head coach excuse Italy’s deficiencies. “When you con- when he replaced Stuart Lancaster in the cede 40 points and lose like this, you can’t wake of their World Cup flop. start complaining about certain decisions England have finished runners-up in the made by the referee,” said Parisse, who last four Six Nations and are set to welcome missed a late drop goal that would have an Irish side bent on atoning for an open- secured victory over France last week. ing draw with Wales and Saturday’s 10-9 Jones, meanwhile, was quick to credit defeat to France in Paris. the 24-year-old Joseph, while taking the But Jones, sounding jovial and bullish media to task for suggesting the Bath cen- after a much-improved second-half per- tre had previously fallen out of favour. formance saw Bath’s Joseph score his maid- The Australian said it was “a lot of talk en England hat-trick, says he has already from you guys, not from me. Let’s get that seen enough to know the nucleus of his right. He wasn’t under pressure for his spot. matchday squad. You guys had him under pressure.” MEMPHIS: Kei Nishikori, right, of Japan and Taylor Fritz of the United States pose with their trophies after Nishikori beat Fritz in the singles “I’ve got a pretty good idea in my head He added: “I thought he was very good. championship at the Memphis Open tennis tournament Sunday, in Memphis, Tenn. Nishikori won 6-4, 6-4. —AP at the moment,” said the Australian. Last week, his defence was outstanding... He added: “For each game we’ll have a sometimes, in a 13’s job, you don’t get a lot particular gameplan and depending on of ball. Today he did, and he was sharp on who is suitable for that game will play.” his feet.” Nishikori captures fourth Jones ruffled a few feathers when he Fly-half Farrell, who finished with 17 demanded England give Italy a good points, said of Joseph: “He’s sharp... he’s a ‘smacking’ in Rome, but after resisting on classy rugby player at the same time. He Memphis title in a row their way to trailing 11-9 at half-time Italy doesn’t make many mistakes and makes a finally caved in. lot of good decisions.” Joseph, who also When an alert Joseph intercepted played a full game against Scotland, played WASHINGTON: Japan’s seventh-ranked Kei Leonardo Sarto’s misplaced pass to Michele down suggestions had been trying to Nishikori captured his fourth consecutive ATP Campagnaro in the 52nd minute, Italy’s prove a point. “I wouldn’t say so. It was Memphis Open title on Sunday by defeating heads began to drop. more a case of just wanting to do my coun- 18-year-old US wildcard Taylor Fritz 6-4, 6-4. Taylor ends drought try proud, my family proud. I don’t take any ALERTNESS game lightly, I want to prove myself every Top seed Nishikori won his 11th career ATP “The turning point was the interception game and put in as much effort as I possi- crown by taking his 17th consecutive at Pebble Beach try. It changed the game for us from a men- bly can,” he said.—AFP Memphis match victory. He joins Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal as the only active players to have won the same LOS ANGELES: Journeyman Vaughn Taylor in the Ryder Cup in 2006, but fluctuating Goromaru not going event four years in a row. surged to victory in the PGA Tour’s Pebble form saw him lose his tour card, and he has “It has been amazing,” Nishikori said as he Beach Pro-Am on Sunday, firing a seven- bounced between the US tour and the under 65 for a one-shot victory over five- developmental Web.com tour in recent accepted the guitar-shaped champion’s tro- time major winner Phil Mickelson. For seasons. to Toulon, say Reds phy. “It was really fun on the court. This is Taylor, it was the end of a victory drought something I’ve never done before, something stretching to 2005, while Mickelson LONG TIME COMING new. I’m very happy for that.” BRISBANE: Australia’s Queensland Reds remained in search of his first US PGA Tour In addition to struggles on the course, yesterday said there was no truth in French Fritz, in only his third tour-level event, was title since the 2012 British Open. he endured a frightening boat accident reports that their star Japanese recruit the youngest American in an ATP final since a Mickelson had birdied 17 and had a while fishing on a river near his home in Ayumu Goromaru will join European cham- 17-year-old Michael Chang won at Wembley chance to force a playoff with a birdie at 18, 2014 — one in which he feared he would pions Toulon next season. in 1989. “It was a great week for me,” Fritz said. but to his shock his five-foot putt lipped drown. France’s Canal Plus on Sunday said full- “Winning the tournament four times, that’s out to leave Taylor to celebrate his victory “It has been a long time,” Taylor said, back Goromaru, who rose to fame during incredible. He was too tough for me today.” last year’s World Cup, had signed a one- on 17-under par 270. becoming more emotional as he spoke. “I Fritz smashed a backhand winner down year deal with the option of a second year Mickelson had looked poised to end his didn’t think it was going to happen. I’ve the line to break Nishikori’s first service game with the lavish-spending French outfit. long dry spell when he took a two-shot worked so hard and just kept getting of the match-his lone break of the contest- But a Queensland Rugby Union lead into the final round of the Northern knocked down and knocked down. I can’t spokesperson said the reports were “not and then held at love himself for a 3-0 edge. California tournament he has won four believe it. “I can’t believe it happened true”, without elaborating. But the Asian ace bounced back by winning times. again.” Goromaru shot to prominence when he six of the next seven games. But an even par round of 72 that includ- Taylor’s nine birdies on the par-72 scored 58 points as Japan won three of A double fault cost Fritz a break in the fifth ed four bogeys and two birdies wasn’t Pebble Beach Golf Links included four in a their four matches at the World Cup, includ- game and he struggled to hold in the sev- enough to get the job done and he settled row from the 13th. He capped that run by ing a stunning win over South Africa. He is enth, denying Nishikori break points on two set to make his Super Rugby debut in just for second on 271. “I’m certainly disap- rattling in a 29-footer at the 16th. “I wasn’t aces and a service winner. Nishikori broke in pointed that I wasn’t able to put it togeth- even thinking about making that putt,” under two weeks’ time with the Reds, who the ninth game on a forehand winner and already have Wallabies Quade Cooper and er,” Mickelson said. “But it makes me a little Taylor said. “I just tried to put a good roll on held at love to claim the first set after 36 min- James O’Connor playing in France with bit more determined to get this back it ... I just flushed it.” Toulon. utes. In the second set, Nishikori broke on a where I want it. With the win, Taylor-who calls Augusta, Goromaru, 29, caused a stir in his home- forehand winner for a 3-2 lead and forced Fritz “I played a little tighter than I wanted,” Georgia, home-booked a return to the land when he opted to join the Reds for the to save two match points in the ninth game he added. “A few more mistakes in the Masters for the first time since 2008. “Oh upcoming Super season rather than Japan’s before holding in the 10th on a forehand win- short game around the greens.” Sweden’s my God,” he said. “I’m thinking about the first ever participants, the newly formed ner to end it after 79 minutes. Jonas Blixt challenged early, aided by an Masters. I mean, are you kidding? Sunwolves. After starting the week 1-2 in ATP play, Fritz eagle at the par-five sixth, but finished with “I just wanted to play next week,” added French reports last week named him as will jump from 145th to 103rd in the world a 69 for 272. Taylor, is now qualified to do so. “I wasn’t world rugby’s best paid player, saying he rankings. “I’m sure he has got a bright future was earning 200,000 euros per month, Japan’s Hiroshi Iwata, tied for the lead even thinking about winning. Things were and is going to be among the top players very after his third birdie of the day at the 11th, just magical out there.” World number one mostly from sponsorships and endorse- soon,” Nishikori said of Fritz. ments. That would place him ahead of bogeyed 16 and 18 and finished tied for Jordan Spieth ended a disappointing week Fritz, last year’s US Open junior champion, newly-retired All Black Dan Carter, who fourth on 273 alongside Sweden’s Freddie on a relatively strong note. After just mak- helped New Zealand seal back-to-back made his ATP debut last year at Nottingham, Jacobson, who carded a 71. ing the cut-made after 54 holes to allow all World Cups in November before signing a beating Carreno Busta before a second-round Taylor, 39, captured his third tour title, to the field to play each of three courses used three-year deal with Paris club Racing exit. He lost to compatriot Jack Sock in five go with back-to-back victories in the Reno- in the event-Spieth carded a bogey-free six- Metro said to be worth about 1.78 million sets in the first round of last month’s Tahoe Open in 2004 and 2005. He played under 66 to finished tied for 21st. — AFP Ayumu Goromaru euros a season. —AFP Australian Open. — AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 SPORTS Coach Langer thrills in Voges’ late flourish

MELBOURNE: The amazing high of con- That smashed a 12-year record held and great people do, he’s grabbed his Australia captain rack up 1,358 runs at “I said ‘You are not going to make fidence and the sober knowledge of by Sachin Tendulkar who collected 497 opportunity with both hands. an average of 104.46 during an out- runs with that stance, go back to tap- cricket mortality have combined to runs between wickets in 2004. It also left “He’s confident and confidence is an standing Shield season in 2014-15. ping your bat and getting natural and inspire Australia batsman Adam Voges Voges with a Don Bradman-esque aver- amazing thing. And he knows that at his Just over two years before, however, relaxed and then watch the ball like a to the astonishing feats of his golden age of 97.46 from 14 matches. age he’s got to run with the opportunity Voges was in a major form trough and hawk, which is your trademark’. summer, according to his coach Justin Not bad work for a man who played for as long as he can, so he’s really hun- feared for his spot in the state side when “That was sort of a starting point in Langer. his first test at the age of 35 in June-and gry to do that.” Putting established team Langer took over as coach at the end of his turnaround in his fortunes. All of a Voges was named man-of-the-match promptly became the oldest debutant mates like opener David Warner and his 2012. Voges was sporting an awkward- sudden he was able to float, move his in the first test against New Zealand, fir- to score a century with an unbeaten 130 captain Steven Smith in the shade, looking batting stance somewhere feet properly, hit the ball on both sides ing the tourists to an emphatic innings against West Indies at Roseau. Voges’ 899 runs at a giddy average of between that of former England captain of the wicket.” The 36-year-old ‘rookie’, win in Wellington yesterday with a bril- Langer, Voges’ coach and mentor at 179.80 is Australia’s best from the seven Graham Gooch and ex-England batsman once picked in the test squad in 2006 liant 239, his second double-century of Sheffield Shield side Western Australia, matches over the summer. Peter Willey, who was famous for facing but denied a debut, will savour his his short test career. has been thrilled to see a player he once At the age of 35, Voges’ call-up for the bowlers front-on. moment all the more for having waited Having compiled an unbeaten 269 helped through a time of crushing touring squad to West Indies and “He had the most unorthodox, robot- so long, Langer said. against West Indies and 106 not out doubt become the game’s hottest play- England was something of a surprise for ic, mechanical stance I’d ever seen,” the “He’s super-fit and there’s no reason against the same team in his previous er. “It’s been magnificent. He could prob- local cricket fans, but not for Langer. 45-year-old Langer, who played 105 why he can’t keep playing,” Langer said. two trips to the crease, Voges amassed ably never have written a script of how tests for Australia, said. “It was the most “But he also knows he can’t get compla- 614 runs since his last dismissal-way well he’s playing,” Langer told Reuters in ROBOTIC, MECHANICAL STANCE bizarre thing I had ever seen. I remem- cent. He can’t stop scoring runs in club back in November during the maiden an interview yesterday. “That said there’s A gritty opening batsman in a succes- ber throwing balls at him at the WACA and Shield cricket because as soon as day-night test against New Zealand in no more deserving person. He’s an out- sion of great Australian teams from (ground) and I said ‘What are you doing?’ you do, ‘Mother Cricket’ will come and Adelaide. standing character. Like great players 1993-2007, Langer watched his Western He said ‘What do you mean?’. smack you.” —Reuters

India underline credentials as World T20 favourites

MUMBAI: Twenty20 series wins over Out of the eight seasons, we have played Australia and Sri Lanka have given top- seven seasons in India. ranked India plenty of cause for optimism “We have got a lot of players, especially as they launch their bid for a second world ones who are part of the team, who have crown in the sport’s shortest format on got very good experience of playing in home soil next month. India.” The return of batting mainstay Virat Champions in the inaugural edition of Kohli, rested for the Sri Lanka series, for the World Twenty20 in 2007, India blanked Ajinkya Rahane is likely to be the only hosts Australia 3-0 at the start of the year change to India’s starting side for the before returning home to rally for a 2-1 win upcoming Asia Cup T20 event in over Sri Lanka. Bangladesh and the subsequent World The three-match series started with a Twenty20. surprise defeat on a seamer-friendly sur- The strong form of India’s top order has face in Pune but India were spared the usu- left the middle to lower batsmen with limit- al outpouring of discontent that follows ed opportunities to impress, however, and any cricketing loss with convincing wins in while Dhoni would like to see that deficien- the remaining two matches. cy addressed, he realises it could be diffi- A green-tinged pitch like the one wit- cult to fulfil. nessed in Pune is unlikely to seen during “Not everybody has had a chance to bat the March 8-April 3 event and captain but we will keep facing this problem Mahendra Singh Dhoni has already identi- because our line-up is quite deep,” Dhoni fied his preferred 11 a month before the added. “We will try to give chances to a few hosts open their campaign against New of the players who haven’t batted so far. Zealand. But usually those who are batting close to “We are always a top contender when it six, seven and eight will have to develop comes to shorter formats,” Dhoni said after ways to play the big shots as soon as they India beat Sri Lanka by nine wickets in go in anyway.” Visakhapatnam on Sunday. “Also, with the Dhoni, who led the side to that victory World Cup to be held in India, we know the in 2007 and also the 50-over World Cup on spinners will come into the equation. It home soil four years later, was more relaxed gives us the added benefit. about his bowling options, saying the side “Added to that is the exposure of having had the right balance to tackle any condi- played the IPL (T20 tournament) over here. tions. — Reuters

WELLINGTON: Doug Bracewell of New Zealand plays a shot during day four of the first cricket Test match between New Zealand and ustraliaA at Smith delights as Australia the Basin Reserve in Wellington yesterday. — AFP close in on top ranking WELLINGTON: Australia’s aim of regaining REVERSE SWING Australia crush NZ the top ranking in test cricket has taken a McCullum also praised Australia’s major step forward following yesterday’s bowlers for their efforts on the first morn- comprehensive victory over New Zealand ing and for their ability to eke out some in the opener of their two-match series, reverse swing when New Zealand batted a according to captain Steve Smith. second time. with day to spare Australia thumped the hosts by an “When you know you’ve got favourable innings and 52 runs at the Basin Reserve conditions it’s not always easy to execute as shortly after lunch on the fourth day to put well as they did for as long as they did,” themselves in prime position to usurp India McCullum said of his side being reduced to WELLINGTON: Australia inflicted a crushing battle of wits with Hazlewood who fired down a charge of the Test from the time Smith won the at the head of the ICC test rankings. 51-5 inside the first 12 overs in the first innings defeat on New Zealand with a day to series of good length deliveries, seaming the toss and New Zealand were out within two ses- The triumph means Smith’s side can innings. spare in the first Test in Wellington when they ball away and tempting the left-hander to chase sions on a green-topped wicket. afford to draw the second test starting in “(Then) the way they went about the dismissed the home side for 327 yesterday. In a the shot. As the wicket flattened out, Australia were Christchurch on Feb. 20 as any series victo- second innings on that wicket, they identi- Test that will be remembered for two majestic When Nicholls refused to take the bait, able to score more freely with their cause helped ry, whether it be by a 1-0 or 2-0 margin, will fied pretty quickly the ball wasn’t swinging innings by Adam Voges and Usman Khawaja, as Hazlewood switched to a short delivery which by umpire Richard Illingworth wrongly calling take Australia past India. conventionally. well as an umpiring howler, Australia won by an was pulled to the square-leg boundary. no ball when Voges was bowled by Doug “We want to be number one in the “Once the ball is reverse swinging, its innings and 52 runs. Bird eventually claimed the 24-year-old with Bracewell on seven. world in all three formats and I think this another thing to apply pressure and exe- Nathan Lyon, Jackson Bird, Mitchell Marsh a good length delivery that bowled him as he The 36-year-old went on to make 239 while test match is a step in the right direction,” cute it and they did that outstandingly and Josh Hazlewood all shared the spoils as the tried to turn it to the on side. Southee and Craig Khawaja added 140 to have New Zealand effec- Smith told reporters. “I said when I took well.” last six New Zealand wickets fell for 149 on day delayed the inevitable, putting on 59 for the tively out of the game after the first innings. The over as captain that I wanted to win every Smith was keen for his side to build on four. Australian captain Steve Smith said it was ninth wicket. second Test starts in Christchurch on Saturday. It series away from home. their win, with pace bowler James the first step in their quest to regain the number Lyon finished with four for 91, while Mitchell will be the last international for the retiring “It’s great to be one-nil up in the series Pattinson likely to come back into con- one Test ranking which will require them sweep- Marsh took three for 73. Australia had been in McCullum. — AFP against New Zealand and hopefully we can tention, while seamer Peter Siddle would ing the two-Test series. take a step up in Christchurch.” Smith felt need tests on a back spasm. “We want to be number one in the world in his team had put in a complete perform- “We have played some very good test all three formats and I think this Test match is a SCOREBOARD ance against Brendon McCullum’s side, cricket over the last couple of months,” step in the right direction,” he said. “It was a pret- ty good toss to win. Having said that, we had to exploiting the green wicket on the first day, Smith said, referring to series wins over WELLINGTON: Scoreboard at completion of the first Test between New Zealand and Australia in put the ball in the right areas for extended peri- then building a patient innings when they New Zealand and West Indies. Wellington yesterday: batted to ensure they wore down the “Obviously to win both series at home ods and I think we did that. We put the NZ bat- home attack as conditions improved. and start this one the way we have has ters under pressure and reaped the rewards.” New Zealand 1st innings 183 (M. Craig 41 M. Craig not out 33 “It was a pretty good toss to win. Having been really satisfying and there is a lot of New Zealand were on the back foot from the n.o.; Hazlewood 4-42, Lyon 3-32, Siddle 3-37). T. Southee c Khawaja b Lyon 48 said that, we had to put the ball in the right improvement left in us, but I think we’re time they lost the toss and were 51-5 in the first Australia 1st innings 562 (A. Voges 239, U. T. Boult b Marsh 12 areas for extended periods and I think we going in the right direction.” session, according to skipper Brendon Khawaja 140, S. Smith 71; Anderson 2-79, Extras: (b2, lb5, nb4) 11 did that,” he said. “We put the New Zealand Australia top the one-day internation- McCullum. “Conditions were difficult on that first Southee 2-87). Total (for 10 wickets, 104.3 overs) 327 morning,” he said. batters under pressure and reaped the al rankings, are second on the test list Fall of wickets: 1-81 (Guptill), 2-121 “We came up against a team who played a New Zealand 2nd innings (overnight 178-4) rewards from that... and with our batting, but a lowly eighth on the T20 table (Williamson), 3-157 (Latham), 4-178 very, very good Test match and we were just a T. Latham c Khawaja b Lyon 63 we were willing to bat for long periods and ahead of next month’s ICC World (McCullum), 5-185 (Anderson), 6-214 (Watling), get through the tough periods.” Twenty20 in India. — Reuters little bit short. It’s not a reinvent the wheel situa- M. Guptill c Marsh b Lyon 45 tion but we’ve got to tidy up a few areas.” New K. Williamson c Nevill b Hazlewood 22 7-218 (Nicholls), 8-242 (Bracewell), 9-301 Zealand had been set a target of 379 just to get H. Nicholls b Bird 59 (Southee), 10-327 (Boult) in credit in their second innings after Voges’ 239 B. McCullum lbw Marsh 10 Bowling: Hazlewood 29-7-75-2, Bird 19-4-51-1 set up Australia’s first innings of 562. The recog- C. Anderson lbw Marsh 0 (nb2), Siddle 8-0-30-0, Marsh 17.3-2-73-3 (nb2), nised New Zealand batsmen made starts, but B. Watling b Lyon 10 Lyon 31-10-91-4 were unable to turn them into big scores. After D. Bracewell lbw Hazlewood 14 Result: Australia win by innings and 52 runs. getting to 218-7 it was left to the last three bats- men to add 109 runs. Tim Southee was in a one- day mood with 48 off 23 balls and Mark Craig contributed an unbeaten 33. At the top of the order, Tom Latham scored 63 and Henry Nicholls, on debut, added 59 while Martin Guptill made 45 and Kane Williamson 22. Williamson and BJ Watling are renowned as doughty batsmen capable of occupying the crease for a long time but neither lived up to their reputation in the face of a tight bowling attack. Lyon occupied one end with his off- breaks and the quicks were rotated at the other with a plan for each of the batsmen.

BATTLE OF WITS Watling has featured in two world-record stands for the sixth wicket at the Basin Reserve in the past two years. He batted for 510 minutes with McCullum in a 352-run stand that saved a Test against India in 2014 and last year batted for 479 minutes in an unbeaten 365-run stand with Williamson to beat VISAKHAPATNAM: A file picture taken on February 14, 2016 shows India’s Sri Lanka. Ravichandran Ashwin bowling during the third T20 international cricket match But he was undone in 40 minutes by Australia between India and Sri Lanka at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket when he attempted to cut a Lyon delivery and Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Ravichandran Ashwin underlined his status as India’s tal- was beaten by the turn with the ball taking an NEW DELHI: Industrialist and owner of the Indian Premier League’s Rising Pune Supergiants isman with a career-best 4 for 8 in February 14’s decider when he again opened the inside edge to ricochet into the stumps. cricket team Sanjiv Goenka (L) and team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni speak during an bowling. — AFP Nicholls resumed the day at 31 and won a event to unveil the team jersey at an event in New Delhi yesterday. — AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 SPORTS China millions lure poor South America players

MONTEVIDEO: They may lack Barcelona “As long as they are receiving those Colombian striker Jackson Martinez, background. Most of them have many Transfermarkt. or Chelsea’s glamour, but Chinese foot- millions, it doesn’t matter to them 29, moved in early February from relatives and friends to support and they China lost all three of its matches in ball clubs are luring skillful South whether China has good or bad football,” Atletico Madrid to Guangzhou look to maximize their returns.” the only World Cup it played in, in 2002. Americans with irresistible multimillion- he said. Evergrande for around $46 million. The trend for buying up players has It let in nine goals and scored none. Now dollar chaues in their quest to make Unlike US teams who have scooped “They are taking South American raised skepticism as well as excitement. Chinese President Xi Jinping, a self-con- China a world soccer power. up European stars nearing retirement players because we have different skills “China bursting onto the scene is harm- fessed football fan, has said his aim is for While Argentina’s Lionel Messi or such as England’s David Beckham and from Asian ones,” Molina told AFP. ful for Brazilian football because it is China to host and win a World Cup. Brazil’s Neymar bathe in glory as well as Steven Gerrard, Asian sides want top inflating the market without much guar- He wants to “turn China into a sport- cash at Barcelona, a lower-profile Latin players with their best years ahead of FOOTBALL CASH ‘BUBBLE’? antee of consistency,” said Ary Rocco, a ing power as part of the Chinese dream.” legion is hearing the call of the east, them. China’s Super League has no fewer sports marketing expert at Sao Paulo “In China they wanted to make football where big-money transfers offer pre- Clubs in China in particular are paying than 26 Brazilian players-its biggest for- University. “We do not know how long grow and they wondered why they cious economic security for players from huge sums to get them, matching the eign contingent. Twelve more Brazilians this investment will last. It seems to be weren’t making progress,” said Sergio poor families. level of major transfers in Europe-but play in China’s second division, accord- driven by a temporary bubble.” Garcia, a coach who used to run a foot- “As professionals we have to see it as focusing on Latin America, where such ing to tracking website Transfermarkt. ball youth training school for Chinese a work opportunity. We have short riches are a distant dream. Brazilian media have calculated that CHINESE ‘SPORTING POWER’ players in his native Argentina. careers. We have to think of the econom- Brazilian midfielder Ramires last 134 Brazilian players played in China In the days when such transfers were “The problem was that a youth player ic stability of our families,” said month transferred from Chelsea to between 2003 and 2010. “A Brazilian still rare, Guangzhou Evergrande won its could not start at 16, because he had to Colombian midfielder Mauricio Molina, Jiangsu Suning in China for $31 million player does not start out on his foot- first top league title the year it signed study in school all day. Now they have who played for six years in South Korea. and scored on his debut. His country- balling career aiming to play for the Argentine midfielder Dario Conca in decided to teach football in the primary Luis Paulo Rosenberg, an economist man Alex Teixeira, 26, has just joined him national side or sign for Barcelona,” said 2011. and secondary schools,” he said. “But I and former vice-chairman of Brazilian at the Chinese club, which outbid Rosenberg. In the current Chinese transfer win- think investing so much money is more club Corinthians, sees such players as Liverpool to sign him from Shakhtar “He starts out to solve the economic dow, Super League clubs have spent for marketing than to make the sport “purely economic actors”. Donetsk for $56 million. problems stemming from his humble $314 million so far, according to grow.” — AFP Man City’s Pep talk may come back to haunt them

LONDON: Manchester City may come to “We will see at the end of the season regret their decision to announce Pep which is the best team,” he said, “but the Guardiola’s appointment as manager four first problem is our team. “We need to months before Manuel Pellegrini relin- improve on a lot of things. We have 36 quishes charge of the Premier League club. points more to play for. I think all the teams City are still in contention to win four will lose more points from now until the trophies but their form in the two weeks end of the season but when you don’t since they confirmed Guardiola’s arrival in depend just on what you do of course it’s July has raised questions about their ability more difficult.” City have a number of to mark Pellegrini’s departure with silver- world-class players on their books, includ- ware. ing striker Sergio Aguero, midfielder Yaya Successive home defeats by leaders Toure and defender Vincent Kompany who Leicester City and second placed returned to the side against Tottenham Tottenham Hotspur have left City six points after six weeks out injured. off the pace with serious doubts about “There is not a chance we will give up on whether their expensively-assembled the title. We have to improve,” said squad is still playing for the manager. Pellegrini. They need to do so quickly. City Backed by the wealth of Sheikh face rejuvenated Chelsea in the FA Cup fifth Mansour of Abu Dhabi, City are proving round at Stamford Bridge on Sunday that all the money in the world cannot before a taxing trip to Ukraine and the first guarantee success on the field. leg of their Champions League round of 16 Pellegrini, who guided City to the tie against Dynamo Kiev. Premier League title and League Cup victo- Four days later they play Liverpool in the ry in 2014, was honest enough after the 2-1 League Cup final at Wembley and meet the loss to Spurs on Sunday to admit his team same opponents at Anfield in the League had been beaten by the better side. three days later. FLORENCE: Fiorentina’s forward from Senegal Khouma Babacar (C) celebrates after scoring a goal during the Italian Serie A football match He defiantly suggested, however, that Adverse results over the next two Fiorentina vs Inter Milan, on Sunday at Florence’s “Artemio Franchi” comunal stadium. — AFP they could still win the title even though weeks could signal the end of a four- they have taken only one point out of 15 pronged trophy assault and condemn this season from matches against Leicester, Pellegrini to a painful farewell before Spurs and Arsenal, the three teams above Guardiola arrives with a huge task to reju- them. venate the club. — Reuters Babacar steers Viola Klopp purrs over ‘real to dramatic Inter win

striker’ Sturridge ROME: Fiorentina striker Khouma Babacar bun- with players from both sides given their marching welcomed Genoa to the San Siro on the back of a dled home a late winner in a dramatic finish to seal orders at the death, leaving the hosts to finish with run of six games without defeat. BIRMINGHAM: Liverpool manager Jurgen a five-game winless run, ending a difficult a 2-1 win over Inter Milan that reignited La Viola’s 10 men and Inter nine. Inter later protested by “In this second half of the season we’re doing Klopp hailed Daniel Sturridge after he set period for Klopp, who saw Sturridge and hopes of European football next season. imposing media silence. well, and can do better. We have to keep it going,” his side up for a 6-0 victory at Aston Villa in Philippe Coutinho make a difference on Babacar was a late replacement for Josip Ilicic, Inter’s Alex Telles saw red for a second bookable said Milan coach Sinisa Mihajlovic “I’m happy for his first Premier League start for the their returns from injury. who had helped set up Borja Valero’s 60th minute offence eight minutes from the finish although Honda because in the past he has, like (Riccardo) German. England striker Sturridge started “It is good for us when we have all our leveller following Marcelo Brozovic’s 26th minute replays suggested he got the ball in his challenge Montolivo, fallen out of favour. But both have in the league for the first time since players available, but football and life is not opener for Roberto Mancini’s visitors. on Bernardeschi. In the dying seconds tensions shown that with will and sacrifice you can trans- October after a series of injury setbacks like this,” said the German. And the Senegal striker seized the day when flared, with Mauro Zarate shown a red card for form the jeers into cheers.” and scored the opening goal in Liverpool’s “You have to get results when your best Samir Handanovic failed to hold Federico grabbing Inter defender Jeison Murillo by the back Honda stung Mattia Perin’s gloves with a rasp- rout of Villa on Sunday. players are not all available and that is what Bernardeschi’s weighted cross-shot into the six- of the neck as they exchanged some choice words. ing shot that the ‘keeper palmed out of the top cor- Now Klopp hopes for an injury-free run we didn’t do often enough. yard box, bundling home at the second attempt in ner on four minutes. for the 26-year-old, whose all-round game “We know about the problems we had the first minute of added-on time. ‘ JEERS INTO CHEERS’ From the resulting corner the ball was kept in impressed his manager more than his and I know you (the media) are not always The win moved Fiorentina two places up to At the final whistle, Inter midfielder Geoffrey play and it was Honda’s cross, flicked on by M’Baye headed goal in the 16th minute. “Of course interested in this and that is OK. third place, eight points behind new leaders Kondogbia was also given his marching orders Niang, that found Carlos Bacca unmarked at the we need the goals of Daniel and he needs “We believe in our work and in the Juventus, who pushed Napoli down to second at a after sarcastically applauding the referee. back post to slam the ball past Mattia Perin after the goals, that’s clear,” said Klopp. squad and in the way we work and this point adrift with a 1-0 win in Turin on Saturday. Sousa further applauded his players, as they bid just five minutes. “It’s not a surprise that he scores goals, time we got the benefit.” “Overall, I think we deserved the win,” Fiorentina for an unlikely top three finish and a possible It was Bacca’s 13th league goal of the campaign but it surprised me how good he is with James Milner, Emre Can, Divock Origi, coach Paulo Sousa told Mediaset. “We played open, Champions League qualifying place. and took the Colombian joint second in the league the team and his movement. He is a real Nathaniel Clyne and Kolo Toure also scored attacking football and tried to exploit them down “These lads believe in themselves, even when scoring charts alongside Juve forward Paulo striker. “It is good to see him fit and when as Liverpool strolled to a victory that lifted deep on both flanks.” things aren’t going well,” added the Portuguese, a Dybala, who is 11 strikes behind runaway leader he hides himself on the pitch he is really them up to eighth, three points shy of the Referring to Babacar’s late winner, he added: midfielder with Inter in his playing days. Gonzalo Higuain of Napoli. Honda doubled Milan’s difficult to defend against because he is European places. “We capitalise on the fact some of the goalkeepers “They have a good work ethic and want to suc- lead just after the hour with a superb strike from 20 always somewhere and you don’t know his It was Villa’s worst defeat at home since from these big teams help you with their rebound ceed, and that makes me proud to coach them.” yards, his first goal of the season ending a 483-day next move. saves.” Inter remain fifth but are now 12 points off Japan midfielder Keisuke Honda hit a late winner in goal famine. Genoa striker Alessio Cerci, who “For us this is very important and 1935 and plunged the Premier League’s bottom club into deeper crisis. the pace, four behind Fiorentina and only two an inspirational performance for Milan as they con- moved to the club from Milan in the January trans- changes a lot of things of course, but we ahead of city rivals AC Milan, who secured a pre- tinued their resurgence with a 2-1 win over Genoa. fer window, prompted even more jeers from the can only speak about this when he is avail- They are now eight points adrift of safe- ty at the foot of the table with 12 games to cious 2-1 home win over Genoa earlier on Sunday. Milan are bidding to secure a Champions largely partisan crowd when he hit a late consola- able. “When he’s not we cannot say, ‘But Fiorentina’s win, however, ended on a sour note League spot for the first time in three seasons and tion for the visitors. —AFP with Daniel it would have been different.’ In go and thousands of supporters walked this game it was brilliant.” out with less than an hour on the clock. Sturridge returned to the scoresheet on Many of those that remained chanted the same day that his England team-mate against owner Randy Lerner, while some in Match-fixing attempts uncovered by Dutch probe Danny Welbeck made his comeback for the main stand shouted directly at chief Arsenal and scored the winner against executive Tom Fox. Manager Remi Garde AMSTERDAM: Attempts to fix the come of the match. There is not Leicester City. said: “It’s very disappointing. I feel humilia- result of a Dutch league match seven enough legal evidence to determine Both men are eyeing a place in tion. “It was very painful with six goals con- years ago have been uncovered by a whether Aerts was involved and it is England’s squad for Euro 2016 in France. ceded, but it is three points thrown away, Dutch football association (KNVB) unclear who the third person was,” “It’s great,” said Sturridge. “‘Welbz’ is a good not more. We don’t have time to moan too investigation, it said yesterday. added the KNVB statement. friend of mine and he’s feeling good. I much about this. “It’s the worst defeat I’ve It is the first time such a case has spoke to him the other day and it’s good to had as a manager and I have a lot of feel- been established in the Netherlands, BENEFIT MATCH see him back. “Hopefully we will be there ings, but I will keep some of them to the KNVB added in a statement. It also said a benefit match in the summer and we can help the coun- myself. It said the probe had uncovered a between Willem II and the Sierra try have some success.” “As a manager it was the worst perform- bid by Ibrahim Kargbo, then a player Leone national team in November ance I’ve had. It was a very bad defeat. I’m at Willem II Tilburg, to fix the out- 2009 was specifically organised with GARDE ‘SAD AND FRUSTRATED’ very sad and frustrated. I’m very sorry for come of a league match against FC the objective of manipulating the For Liverpool, victory marked the end of the fans.” —AFP Utrecht in August 2009 in co-opera- result on behalf of an Asian betting tion with convicted Singaporean syndicate. fraudster Wilson Raj Perumal. Results of Sierra Leone national “Dutch football is one of the last in team in other competitions might Europe to lose its innocence in this also have been fixed by Kargbo, who matter,” said KNVB operational direc- was captain of the team, according to tor Gijs de Jong. the statement. “We have long warned this could Allegations made by a Dutch happen in the Dutch league but it is newspaper last year that other still difficult to swallow now that this Willem II matches had been manipu- has been established. Hopefully it will lated were not proven, the statement add urgency in the Netherlands to added, with KNVB saying it would the fight against this plague.” send the report to soccer governing The KNVB said Kargbo had prom- bodies FIFA and UEFA and the Dutch ised the then captain Michael Aerts police. and a third unidentified player would The 33-year-old Kargbo, who last work together with him to throw the played at English non-league club match against Utrecht in return for Thamesmead Town, would not be 25,000 euros ($28,025) each. allowed to participate in any capacity But although Utrecht won 1-0, in Dutch football in the future, said Perumal, who has already been pros- the statement. Kargbo has already ecuted and jailed in other countries been suspended in Sierra Leone for for match fixing, refused to pay say- alleged match fixing. Perumal, 50, has ing the agreement had been for a featured in cases involving more than ASUNCION: Brazil’s Sao Paulo players celebrate their victory over Uruguay ‘s win by more than a single goal. 100 manipulated matches around NELSPRUIT: Sierra Leone’s Ibrahim Kargbo, right, as he challenges Liverpool in their final Copa Libertadores U20, football match at Defensores del “Nevertheless, it has been estab- the world and been jailed in Finland South Africa’s Bernard Parker during their Africa Cup Of Nations qual- Chaco Stadium in Asuncion on Sunday. —AFP lished that they agreed on the out- and Hungary. —Reuters ifier in Nelspruit, South Africa. — AP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 SPORTS Platini vows to fight ‘injustice’ at FIFA appeal

ZURICH: The fallen head of European foot- determined. ball, Michel Platini, faced a FIFA appeals But on Monday he said he would face committee yesterday in a bid to clear his the appeals committee “eye-to-eye.” “I have name and overturn an eight-year ban from done nothing and I am afraid of nothing,” the sport for ethics violations. he said. “We’ll see what happens... Maybe “I am not fighting for my future, but this is not over.” against injustice,” the former French star Platini had been the favourite to win told journalists outside the Zurich head- FIFA’s February 26 presidential vote but the quarters of world football’s governing December ruling levelled the final blow to body. his hopes of succeeding Blatter. While most football power-brokers typi- He withdrew from the race, leading the cally enter FIFA’s compound in luxury European confederation (UEFA) to back sedans with tinted windows, the 60-year- Gianni Infantino, Platini’s long-serving old Platini walked the final 100 metres (330 deputy at Europe’s governing body. feet) to FIFA’s gate, smiling and looking But UEFA has said it will not elect a new upbeat as reporters peppered him with president until Platini’s appeals have been questions. exhausted, meaning the Frenchman could “If I had anything to feel guilty about, I reclaim his post at the top of European would be in Siberia, hiding in shame,” said football if his ban is overturned. Platini, also a former FIFA vice president. “I’m very well. There are worse things in NOT BLAMING BLATTER life.” Platini and Blatter have been the most In December, FIFA judges ruled that a high-profile casualties in the unprecedent- mysterious 2 million Swiss franc ($2 million, ed, wide-ranging scandal that has seen 1.8 million euros) Platini received from senior football executives suspended or Sepp Blatter in 2011 violated the world fired, with 39 people indicted for corrup- body’s ethics guidelines and that both men tion by the United States. had abused their positions. The saga has provoked endless discus- Blatter, FIFA’s disgraced president who sion about the complicated relationship turns 80 in March, was also hit with an between Blatter and Platini, who previously eight-year ban over the payment. His were allies before the relationship turned BARCELONA: FC Barcelona’s Luis Suarez kicks the ball to score during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between FC Barcelona and Celta Vigo at appeal hearing is set for today. publicly sour. the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain. Lionel Messi put on another show at the Camp Nou on Sunday, scoring a remarkable goal from a Both men, once the most powerful fig- Platini on Monday seemed to dismiss free kick and then helping to set up a hat trick for Luis Suarez - including a daring assist from a penalty kick - as Barcelona thrashed Celta Vigo ures in world football, have insisted that suggestions that Blatter was responsible 6-1. — AP the payment was part of a legitimate oral for his troubles. contract reportedly for consulting work “Is it Blatter who put me in this situa- performed by Platini a decade earlier. tion? Not at all, because he is in the same If the appeals panel rules against them, situation as me, but someone pushed the Suarez hat-trick as both are expected to take their case the button (against me) and I will try to find Court of Arbitration for Sport in Lausanne. out who,” he said. The notorious 2011 payment is also part Meanwhile, as the two men fight to pre- of a criminal probe by Swiss prosecutors serve their football careers, the campaign Barca hit Celta for six targeting Blatter, in which Platini has been to replace Blatter is heating up with the questioned in a capacity that falls between vote 11 days away. a witness and an accused person. Infantino and the head of the Asian BARCELONA: Barcelona maintained their grip visitors were given a lifeline as Jordi Alba time. Atletico had a far more routine win at Football Confederation Sheikh Salman bin on the Spanish title thanks to a wonderful Luis chopped down Guidetti inside the area. Getafe to remain in the title hunt. Torres ended a ‘EYE-TO-EYE’ Ebrahim al-Khalifa are widely seen as fron- Suarez hat-trick to see off a spirited Celta Vigo 6- The Swede missed a spot-kick as Celta bowed five-month goal drought to net his 100th Platini boycotted his December hearing trunners, ahead of Jordan’s Prince Ali bin al 1 on Sunday. out the Copa del Rey semi-finals against Sevilla Atletico goal against Eibar last weekend and was at FIFA’s ethics tribunal, claiming that a Hussein, South Africa’s Tokyo Sexwale and Atletico Madrid remain three points behind in midweek, but the former Manchester City and brilliantly picked out by Yannick Carrasco’s low judgement against him had been pre- France’s Jerome Champagne. — AFP as they were 1-0 winners at Getafe thanks to Celtic striker dispatched the penalty confidently cross to get the visitors off to the perfect start. Fernando Torres’s first minute goal. into the bottom corner. Atletico then held on to record their 15th Real Madrid slip down to third, a further point Barca started much more brightly after the clean sheet in 24 Liga games this season to adrift of Barca, who also have a game in hand on break and Suarez hit the post following brilliant- leapfrog Real Madrid back into second place. both clubs from the capital. Lionel Messi’s bril- ly wing play from Neymar just 60 seconds into However, Diego Simeone’s men did suffer a big liant free-kick opened the scoring at the Camp the second-half. injury blow when Carrasco hobbled off with Nou, but Celta deservedly drew level before half- The Uruguayan was more precise on the hour ankle ligament damage early in the second peri- time through John Guidetti’s penalty. mark as he swept home Messi’s scooped od. However, Suarez took over in the final half through ball first time into the top corner. The Belgian international is now a major hour as he swept home Messi’s fine through ball doubt for both Atletico’s trips to PSV Eindhoven and before prodding home from point-blank MAGICAL in the Champions League last-16 next week and range. More magical footwork from Messi and the Madrid derby in a fortnight. The best was still to come, though, as Messi Neymar left Suarez with an open goal to move Elsewhere, Sevilla closed the gap on Villarreal passed a penalty into Suarez’s path to complete back ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo as La Liga’s top in the battle for the fourth Champions League his hat-trick before Ivan Rakitic and Neymar scorer 15 minutes from time. place to eight points with a 2-0 win over relega- rounded off the scoring. However, it was his third that will be replayed tion threatened Las Palmas. The final score was harsh on an under- the world over as after Messi was chopped down Second-half goals from Ever Banega and strength Celta, who acquited themselves well for inside the area, he causally passed the ball into Kevin Gameiro overcame the Canary Islanders’ the first hour before being blown away by the the path of the onrushing Suarez to slot home. resistance to register Sevilla’s 13th consecutive magic of Barca’s star front three. The party wasn’t finished there as Suarez’s home win in all competitions. Messi got a festival of brilliant goals started lovely through ball was looped over Sergio Basque minnows Eibar’s brilliant second sea- with a sumptuous free-kick from 25 yards into Alvarez by Rakitic for the fifth. son in the top flight continued as they saw off the top corner just before the half hour mark. And Suarez added another assist to a Levante 2-0 to move up to sixth. And Real Yet, Celta reacted positively and after Bravo sparkling performance for Neymar also to dink Sociedad moved into the top half with their parried Claudio Beauvue’s spectacular volley, the the ball over the stranded Alvarez in stoppage third straight win 3-0 over Granada. — AFP

ZURICH: Suspended UEFA president Michel Platini speaks to the media as he arrives to attend his appeal against a eight year ban from football yesterday at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. — AFP PSG facing internal crisis Arsenal fightback gives ahead of game with Chelsea

Wenger title belief PARIS: Despite enjoying a near-perfect season ganism and racism, and was everything but a hamstring and was substituted during the 5-1 on the pitch, Paris Saint-Germain is dealing with model of sporting stability. It has been trans- win over Newcastle in the Premier League on LONDON: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said. “In the last two days he was convincing a major internal crisis on the eve of its biggest formed into one of the world’s richest clubs, and Saturday. Terry trained on Monday but if he isn’t confessed that he had glimpsed the grim in training. I planned at the start, when I game so far. the Parc des Princes has been cleaned of its most declared fit, Chelsea likely will throw together apparition of Premier League title failures made my press conference on Friday morn- The runaway French league leader should be violent supporters. But PSG has yet to pass the Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic at center back past during his side’s nerve-jangling 2-1 vic- ing, to play him next week. full confidence as it prepares to welcome quarterfinals of the Champions League, and the to handle the threat of Ibrahimovic. tory over leaders Leicester City. “But in the last two training sessions he Chelsea at the Parc des Princes for the first leg of slick image its owners want to promote has Cesar Azpilicueta would be moved to right At half-time of Sunday’s table-topping was very strong and I decided just in the end their Champions League last-16 match today. been dented at the worst moment. back to accommodate Baba Rahman on the left. showdown at the Emirates Stadium, Leicester to include him in the squad. PSG is unbeaten in its last 44 domestic matches, Aurier has been a key player for Blanc, and is led 1-0 through Jamie Vardy’s penalty and “Everyone is extremely happy for him and key players Javier Pastore and Marco Verratti widely regarded as one of the best right backs COSTA REVIVAL Arsenal were staring down the barrel of an because he has been out for 10 months. have recovered from injuries in time. playing in Europe. But this isn’t his first run-in Striker Diego Costa is back to his best, and eight-point deficit to the summit. That’s an eternity for a player. Let’s not forget Instead, a poisonous atmosphere enveloped with authorities, as he was suspended for three that spells danger for PSG. But after Leicester’s Danny Simpson was he has not played one minute for us.” the club over the weekend after defender Serge matches last year for insulting a Champions He appeared to be more interested in fight- sent off, substitutes Theo Walcott and Danny Vardy’s goal on the stroke of half-time, his Aurier was suspended for insulting coach League referee on social media. ing than scoring at the start of the season, but Welbeck struck to lift Wenger’s side to within 19th of the season, put Leicester on course Laurent Blanc and some of his teammates in an Against Chelsea, he is likely to be replaced since Jose Mourinho departed, Costa has been two points of first place and rekindle hopes of for another big win after their 3-1 success at online video. During a live session with fans on either by Marquinhos or Gergory Van der Wiel. more focused on his primary job and scored a first league crown since 2004. Manchester City the previous weekend. social media, Aurier aimed abuse at Blanc and Ibrahimovic and Di Maria are expected to start eight goals in 10 games. “A loss today (Sunday) would have been But Simpson’s dismissal after two book- insulted Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Angel Di Maria. up front, with Lucas Moura and Edinson Cavani massive,” Wenger told his post-match press ings-for impeding Alexis Sanchez and hold- Aurier has since apologized but could soon in competition for a starting position on the left VERRATTI EXTENDS DEAL conference. “Even after that you get all the ing back Olivier Giroud-changed the course be placed on the transfer list. flank of the attack. Midfielder Marco Verratti has extended his negative vibes, the belief goes down. It would of the game and they finished the weekend The video left the club’s Qatari owners unim- contract with PSG until 2020. He has played a have been much more difficult. with Spurs and Arsenal breathing down their pressed, and president Nasser Al-Khelaifi said he MAKESHIFT DEFENSE crucial role in PSG’s rise to the summit of French “We would not have given up, but eight necks. Having only previously seen his side would not allow anyone to get away with dam- The central-defensive pairing of Kurt Zouma football since his arrival in July 2012. points is three games to come back. We beaten twice, Leicester manager Claudio aging PSG’s image. and John Terry also has been integral to Blanc has often expressed his admiration for would need to win three, they would need to Ranieri has not had much to rail against this Aurier’s comments are a setback in Qatar Chelsea’s improvement under coach Guus Verratti, who has 155 appearances. lose three.” Welbeck’s goal, a 95th-minute season, but he declared himself “very angry” Sports Investments’ attempt to turn PSG into a Hiddink, but it has been split up. PSG said the “contract extension demon- header on his return from a 10-month injury with referee Martin Atkinson’s decision to world-class club. When QSI took over in June Zouma was ruled out for the season last week strates the importance of the 23-year-old mid- lay-off, sets Arsenal up nicely for a run of send Simpson off. 2011, PSG endured serious problems of hooli- with a knee ligament injury, and Terry hurt his fielder.” —AP games that sees them tackle Hull City in the In stark contrast to Arsenal, Leicester now FA Cup and holders Barcelona in the have two weeks to prepare for their next Champions League before returning to league assignment-a home game with league action at Manchester United on Norwich City-and Ranieri said that he would February 28. They must also visit second- be giving his players a week off. place Tottenham Hotspur and fourth-place “It’s the same as if you won the match,” he Manchester City over the season’s closing said. “‘Go home, and we will see you next weeks, but Wenger said the nature of the vic- Monday,’ because they deserve it. They made tory over Leicester would give them great a fantastic performance today. They go, I heart. don’t know where. Dubai maybe. They go “It will strengthen our belief that we are in wherever they want.” the fight,” said the Frenchman, whose side Asked if Leicester’s title dream was still had won 2-0 at Bournemouth on their previ- alive, a smiling Ranieri answered cryptically. ous outing. “Because we had a bit of a dodgy “I have a dream,” he said. “But I don’t tell spell-with Liverpool 3-3, Stoke 0-0, we lost (1- you what is my dream.” — AFP 0) against Chelsea, played 0-0 at home against Southampton-so now after that we win two games. “We’re still mathematically in the fight and Matches on TV that will strengthen our belief of course.” (Local Timings) Wenger revealed that he had waited until the last minute before deciding to put Welbeck on the bench following his return UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE from a long-term knee problem. Benfica v Zenit St. Petersburg 22:45 beIN SPORTS ‘I HAVE A DREAM’ Paris Saint-Germain v Chelsea 22:45 “You know Danny Welbeck. He is a great beIN SPORTS guy, with a great mentality. He worked PARIS: Paris Saint-Germain’s Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (C) and his teammates warm up during a training session yesterday in Saint- extremely hard. That is why he is fit,” Wenger Germain-en-Laye, western Paris, on the eve of their UEFA Champions League football match against Chelsea. — AFP Shiffrin wins WC Match-fixing slalom race after 2 attempts months out uncovered by Dutch probe

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 201615 18

Australia crush NZ with day to spare Page 17

NEWARK: Milan Lucic #17 of the Los Angeles Kings plays the puck in the second period against John Moore #2 and Jacob Josefson #16 of the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on Sunday in Newark, New Jersey. — AFP Red Wings top Bruins 6-5 Datsyuk scored twice to surpass 900 NHL points

DETROIT: Pavell Datsyuk scored twice to surpass 900 NHL Henrik Lundqvist stopped 21 shots to help the Rangers points, and Henrik Zetterberg and Darren Helm also had two improve to 5-0-1 in their last six games. They also beat the goals apiece to lift the Detroit Red Wings to a wild 6-5 victory Flyers at home for the 11th time in 12 games. Brayden Schenn over the Boston Bruins on Sunday. Both teams blew two-goal spoiled Lundqvist’s shutout with 9.7 seconds left with his 16th Bryant leaves All-Star Game leads before Danny DeKeyser’s shot from the point deflected goal of the season, but the Flyers lost for the fifth time in six past goalie Jonas Gustavsson with 12:23 remaining in the games. Steve Mason finished with 27 saves. Stepan’s first winner, West rolls 196-173 game. Zetterberg was credited with the goal, and the Red score, at 10:34 of the third, was his 100th career goal. Brassard Wings held on to their 6-5 lead until the end. Boston’s Brad tied his career high with 19 and matched Mats Zuccarello for TORONTO: Kobe Bryant said his NBA All-Star Game Marchand set a franchise record for fastest goal by scoring 8 the team lead. goodbye and the next generation of the West’s best sent seconds into the game, and Zach Trotman, Loui Eriksson, him off a winner, rolling to a record-setting 196-173 victo- Dennis Seidenberg and Joonas Kemppainen also scored for DEVILS 1, KINGS 0 ry over the East on Sunday night. the Bruins. Boston’s Tuukka Rask was pulled after allowing five Keith Kinkaid made 25 saves for his first NHL shutout, The first All-Star Game outside the US was the highest- goals on 24 shots. It was the second time in three games he and David Schlemko scored in New Jersey’s victory over scoring ever, with both teams scoring more than any team allowed five goals. Marchand opened the scoring with a wrist Los Angeles. New Jersey won its third straight to pass the had ever managed. Bryant didn’t provide much of the shot after the Bruins won a faceoff in the Detroit zone. It was idle New York Islanders for third place in the Metropolitan offense but many of the memories. He finished with just the fastest in the NHL since Alexandre Burrows scored 6 sec- Division. Los Angeles has split the first four outings of their 10 points, so few that he lost his career lead in All-Star onds in for Vancouver on March 16, 2013, against Detroit, seven-game trip. Schlemko scored on a power play in the Game scoring to LeBron James, even though James also according to STATS. first period, beating goalie Jhonas Enroth through a screen. had a quiet night. Zetterberg tied the game less than three minutes later, and But Russell Westbrook scored 31 points in his second the Bruins needed only 14 seconds to take the lead again BLUES 2, LIGHTNING 1 when Trotman’s shot from the blue line beat Petr Mrazek. straight All-Star MVP performance, Stephen Curry added Robby Fabbri and Patrik Berglund scored on break- 26, Anthony Davis 24, and Kevin Durant 23. Paul George Eriksson scored to make it 3-1, but Datsyuk reached the 900- aways and Brian Elliott stopped 37 shots in St. Louis’s victo- point milestone when he scored during a scramble in front finished with 41 for the East, tying Westbrook’s total from ry over Tampa Bay Lightning. Elliott allowed only Nikita last year in New York that was one off Wilt Chamberlain’s with 5:15 left in the period. Helm tied it early in the second, Kucherov’s goal in the final minute. Tampa Bay lost for the and Datsyuk scored again with the man advantage. Helm’s record. John Wall added 22 points. third time in four games and had a nine-game home win- second goal made it 5-3 with 8:59 left in the second. James finished with 13 points, just enough to move ning streak stopped. Seidenberg made it 5-4 with a long shot just 22 seconds after ahead of Bryant for most ever in the All-Star Game. He has Helm had put the Red Wings ahead by two. Then 291, while Bryant, who is retiring after this season, leaves Kemppainen scored a short-handed goal 38 seconds into the SABRES 4, AVALANCHE 1 with 290. He checked out with 1:06 left to cheers and third, beating Mrazek from the left circle. Sam Reinhart had a goal and an assist as part of a three- hugs from his fellow All-Stars who now put up points in goal first period, leading Buffalo past Colorado. Jack Eichel, bunches the way Bryant did for so long. Bryant had seven RANGERS 3, FLYERS 1 Evander Kane and Marcus Foligno also scored and Robin assists and six rebounds, but shot just 4 for 11 in a game Derek Stepan scored twice in the third period to lead New Lehner made 34 saves to help Buffalo snap an 0-6-4 skid where there isn’t really much defense and had never been York past Philadelphia. Derick Brassard scored early and against Colorado. Erik Johnson scored for Colorado. — AP less. The 369 combined points were 48 more than last year’s record, and both clubs blew away the previous indi- NHL results/standings vidual team record of 163. But people just wanted to see Bryant play, not necessarily play well. The pregame was a NY Rangers 3, Philadelphia 1; Tampa Bay 1, St. Louis 2; Detroit 6, Boston 5; Buffalo 4, Colorado 1; New Jersey 1, Los Angeles 0. celebration first of Canada, then of Bryant. A video mes- TORONTO: Kobe Bryant #24 of the Los Angeles Eastern Conference Western Conference sage from Canadian Dr. James Naismith, basketball’s Lakers and the Western Conference shoots against Atlantic Division Pacific Division inventor, was followed by player introductions by two- Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat and the W L OT GF GA PTS Dallas 36 15 5 184 152 77 time NBA MVP Steve Nash and Grammy winner Drake. Eastern Conference in the second half during the Florida 32 18 6 158 133 70 Chicago 36 18 5 163 137 77 Canadian Nelly Furtado sang her country’s national NBA All-Star Game 2016 at the Air Canada Centre anthem. Detroit 29 18 9 145 143 67 St. Louis 32 17 9 143 138 73 on Sunday in Toronto, Ontario. — AFP Then it was time for two video tributes for Bryant, Boston 30 20 6 172 15766 Colorado 29 26 4 158 164 62 whose 18 All-Star selections are second only to Kareem and force that turned it into a rare All-Star blowout in the Tampa Bay 30 21 4 147 135 64 Nashville 26 21 9 149 149 61 Abdul-Jabbar. Bryant thanked fans who have given him second half. Montreal 27 25 4 155 152 58 Minnesota 23 22 10 135 140 56 more than 30 million votes in his career, and as he finished The West has won five of the last six even without Ottawa 25 26 6 163 181 56 Winnipeg 25 27 3 142 160 53 Buffalo 23 28 6 136 160 52 speaking all the All-Stars lined up in the background to longtime mainstay Bryant, who hadn’t played since 2013 Central Division Toronto 20 25 9 132 156 49 salute him. He took the opening jump ball against James - because of injuries. But players like Westbrook, Durant Los Angeles 33 19 3 153 131 69 Metropolitan Division neither team had a true center voted to the starting line- and Curry are more than ready to shoulder the load. At San Jose 29 20 5 160 146 63 Washington 40 10 4 181 125 84 up - and each East starter took a turn early covering 37, Bryant has trouble keeping up with the youngsters - NY Rangers 32 18 6 163 143 70 Anaheim 27 19 8 125 130 62 Bryant. especially the real young ones. Chris Paul’s son stole the New Jersey 29 21 7 127 130 65 Arizona 25 24 6 145 169 56 Toronto hosted the very first NBA game on Nov. 1, ball from him as Bryant warmed up for the second half. NY Islanders 29 19 6 157 140 64 Vancouver 22 21 12 131 152 56 1946. Neither Naismith nor anyone who saw that game But he was the star without playing a starring a role. He Pittsburgh 28 19 7 141 139 63 Calgary 25 26 3 146 162 53 would recognize the way it looked Sunday. had said he didn’t want players forcing him the ball in an Carolina 25 21 10 137 149 60 Edmonton 22 29 6 143 171 50 Curry and Durant launched shots from spots where effort to make him the MVP - he’s already got four of Philadelphia 24 21 10 131 148 58 Note: Overtime losses (OT) worth 1 pt and not included in loss only buzzer-beating heaves were once attempted, and them in this game - but he was never far from the center Columbus 23 28 6 148 178 52 column (L). Westbrook put together another combination of speed of attention. — AP UAE’s Aldar Properties manages stock release Page 22 Oil prices fell to 12-year lows before rebounding Business Page 23 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Drones becoming ‘real’ India faces hurdles despite better economic conditions threat to commercial aviation: IATA Page 25 Page 27

BEIJING: Customers queue up at the check out line at a supermarket in Beijing yesterday. Chinese trade slumped in January, authorities said as both exports and imports tumbled with feeble domestic and global demand dragging on the world’s second-largest economy. —AFP China exports and imports slump Central Bank fixes value of yuan higher

BEIJING: Chinese trade slumped in January, slow further this year, with the darkening perspec- drag on imports. “The sharp drop of trade in Year holiday and capital flows. The increase was its biggest rise in more than a authorities said yesterday, as both exports and tive contributing to plunges in global stock mar- January was a reflection of weak external demand,” Seasonal volatility meant it was “arguably too decade, according to Bloomberg News. In an inter- imports tumbled with feeble domestic and global kets in recent weeks. ANZ analysts wrote in a note, citing weakness in early to jump to conclusions” before the February view with Caixin magazine published over the demand dragging on the world’s second-largest It has also been a factor in the decline of the trade partners Korea and Taiwan, although they figures became available, he said. Customs earlier weekend, PBoC head Zhou blamed foreign specu- economy. Exports dropped 11.2 percent year-on- yuan currency in recent months, but analysts said added seasonal factors may have been an issue. gave the figures in yuan terms, which showed lators for volatility in the yuan and said there was year to $177.5 billion in dollar terms, Customs said, the record trade surplus gave Chinese officials Capital outflow from China was nearly $160 bil- exports down 6.6 percent, imports falling 14.4 per- no reason it to fall further. while imports plummeted 18.8 percent to $114.2 some breathing room to cope with the floods of lion in December alone, according to Bloomberg cent, and a trade surplus of 12.2 percent. “There is no foundation for continued deprecia- billion-giving the Asian giant a record monthly cash that have flowed out of the country. Intelligence.Over the weekend China’s central bank tion,” he told the magazine, according to a tran- trade surplus of $63.3 billion. Tremors in overseas Yesterday the yuan leapt up more than one per- chief blamed foreign speculators in part for volatili- Yuan intervention script posted on the bank’s website. The Chinese markets and weakness in partner economies have cent in onshore trade, its biggest gain for more ty in the yuan currency and said there was no fur- China’s central bank yesterday fixed the value of economy grew 6.9 percent in 2015 — the slowest weighed on China, a main driver of the world’s eco- than a decade according to Bloomberg News. The ther basis for depreciation. the yuan higher by the biggest margin for more rate since 1990 and capital has been flowing out of nomic growth, and the globe’s largest trader in large positive trade balance “should help offset “China has the world’s largest foreign exchange than three months after its chief Zhou Xiaochuan the country due to worries over the flagging goods. some of the capital outflow and alleviate some reserves,” People’s Bank of China governor Zhou said there was no reason the unit should fall fur- growth, causing the currency to weaken. Rock-bottom prices for commodities such as oil depreciation pressure on the RMB”, said the ANZ Xiaochuan said, according to a transcript of the ther. January’s decreases in the yuan fix represented and slowing growth in infrastructure spending analysts. interview posted on the bank’s website Saturday. The People’s Bank of China (PBoC) set the yuan a 1.4 percent fall and raised worries of a creeping have hit China’s import values, while exports have “RMB depreciation has failed to lift China’s at 6.5118 to $1.0, strengthening 0.30 percent from devaluation. They echoed moves in mid-August been hurt by frail overseas demand, along with ris- Happy new year? export growth so far,” wrote researchers with China the fix on February 5 which was the last trading day when China adjusted the yuan down nearly five ing labour costs and the increasing competitive- The export figures were sharply lower than the International Capital Corporation, adding that before a long holiday, according to figures from the percent over a week, spurring fears it was pursuing ness of rival economies. 1.4 percent slide in December, when imports had authorities should make clear their plans for the national foreign exchange market. It was the a currency war to help boost its flagging exports. “We believe the slump in trade growth mainly declined 7.6 percent. Inward trade was hammered currency. The benchmark Shanghai index fell as biggest jump since November 2. In January Beijing Chinese exports dropped 11.2 percent year-on- reflects weakening investment demand, possibly in January, falling in both volume and value terms, much as 2.95 percent in the morning after a week- guided the unit down by setting its daily fix lower year to $177.5 billion in dollar terms in January, from weaker property investment and measures to which a BofA Merrill Lynch research report said was long holiday for the Lunar New Year, but pared loss- for eight consecutive sessions. Customs said yesterday, as feeble external demand reduce overcapacity,” wrote Nomura analyst Zhao “due to weakness in domestic demand and further es during the day as other regional markets surged, China is seeking a greater role in global com- dragged on the world’s second-largest economy. Yang. The figures were far worse than expected, downward adjustments in commodity prices”. closing down 0.63 percent. merce for the yuan, but limits the currency to rising Analysts said the yuan was still likely to depreciate with economists forecasting a 1.8 percent fall in China’s leaders are looking to retool the econo- While the trade figures were shakier than or falling two percent on either side of the daily fix. further this year. “His (Zhou’s) comments signal exports in a Bloomberg News survey, and a 3.6 per- my to one focused more on consumer spending, expected, Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital In early afternoon yesterday the yuan was quoted against the intention for a sharp one-off devalua- cent slide in imports. but BofA Merrill Lynch said the lack of investment Economics said in a research note that “things may at 6.4900 to $1.0, up more than one percent from tion, but leave scope for possible further round(s) China’s economy grew 6.9 percent in 2015 — in fixed assets-such as the big-ticket infrastructure not be quite as bad as they look” due to distortions the February 5 closing rate of 6.5695, data from the of gradual depreciation,” Goldman Sachs said in a the lowest rate since 1990 — and is expected to projects that long fuelled China’s growth-would in the data resulting from the shifting Lunar New China Foreign Exchange Trade System showed. research note yesterday. —AFP

Russia: Better Iran-Saudi HSBC keeps HQ in London, rejects move to Hong Kong ties would help oil prices LONDON/HONG KONG: Banking group levy to HSBC’s overseas assets will only from last April when the group began its MOSCOW: Russia wants to see improved relations between HSBC Holdings has decided to keep its come fully into effect in 2021 at the earliest, headquarters review, hit by China’s flagging Iran and Saudi Arabia at a time when joint action is needed headquarters in Britain, rejecting the leaving the bank exposed to shifting politi- economic growth and market turmoil. to influence global oil prices, the RIA news agency yester- option of shifting its centre of gravity back cal winds in Britain in the interim, said For Hong Kong, the chance of luring day quoted Zamir Kabulov, a senior official at Russia’s to main profit-generating hub Hong Kong Investec analyst Ian Gordon in a research back HSBC, short for Hong Kong and Foreign Ministry, as saying. Russia, one of the world’s top oil after a 10-month review. note, who nonetheless kept a “buy” rating Shanghai Banking Corp, to its birthplace producers, has repeatedly refused to cooperate with the The decision by HSBC’s board, which on its shares. and to the heart of its Asian growth strate- Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in Europe’s biggest bank said was unanimous, Asked if the government had caved in gy has been lost for now. recent years despite the falling price of oil, the lifeblood of gives a boost to London’s status as a global to threats by the banks, a spokeswoman for “London is one of the world’s leading its economy. financial centre, under threat since the Prime Minister David Cameron said international financial centres and home to Any hope of sealing a global output deal has so far financial crisis of 2007-09 from tougher reg- Osborne’s budget last year had set out that a large pool of highly skilled, international foundered on Iran’s position. Tehran is boosting production ulation and rising costs. Yet Chief Executive the levy was introduced to raise revenue talent,” HSBC said in a statement. “It remains to try to regain market share after sanctions were lifted, Stuart Gulliver immediately warned that the and stabilise bank balance sheets. “It therefore ideally positioned to be the home paving the way for it to re-enter the market after a long bank could not stick with the status quo served its purpose, it worked but it risks base for a global financial institution such absence. The prospect of cooperation between Iran and were Britain to vote in favour of leaving the doing harm if left unchanged, he (Osborne) as HSBC.” leading producer Saudi Arabia is further complicated by the European Union in a promised referendum, said that clearly last summer.” A Reuters Analysts estimated the cost of moving fact that the two countries are geopolitical foes who sup- saying it would consider moving around analysis showed that moving to Hong Kong out of London at between $1.5 billion and port different sides in conflicts in both Syria and Yemen. 1,000 employees from London to Paris. might have actually increased the bank’s $2.5 billion, a hefty bill to swallow unless “We all need stability on the oil market and a return to Some investors had encouraged HSBC tax burden. HSBC was able to achieve clear tax and reg- normal (crude) prices,” RIA quoted Kabulov as saying. “And to consider moving its HQ from Britain, ulatory advantages. these are the key nations, especially Saudi Arabia and Iran, partly because of a tax on banks’ global bal- LESS AGGRESSIVE Hong Kong, where HSBC was founded which is striving to return to the oil market, anticipating the ance sheets brought in after the financial “Arguably, a more benign approach in about 150 years ago and where it employs removal of sanctions.” crisis which had cost it $1.1 billion in 2014. the UK to the regulation of banks, and a more than 20,000, was considered the Some OPEC countries are trying to achieve a consensus But following extensive lobbying by the less aggressive tone by politicians, also strongest relocation option as it accounts among the group, while some non-members back an oil banking industry, British finance minister played an important part in the decision,” for 46 percent of HSBC’s pretax profit. But production freeze, sources familiar with the discussions said George Osborne said in July he would said Guy de Blonay, a fund manager at gyrations in Chinese markets coupled with last week, a possible attempt to tackle the global glut with- halve the levy and, crucially for HSBC, no Jupiter Asset Management which holds concerns about China’s growing influence out cutting supply. Top exporter Saudi Arabia might be longer apply it to the overseas assets of shares in HSBC. “The bank can now turn its over Hong Kong had helped make it more warming to the idea, though it was too early to say whether British banks, part of efforts to help to keep attention to succession planning, likely to likely the bank would stick to London. it would give its blessing because any deal would mainly Britain an attractive place for banks. revolve around its Chairman Douglas Flint HSBC said it remained committed to its depend on a commitment by Iran to curb its plan to boost The bank denied using the threat of initially (2017), and then CEO Stuart Gulliver Asia “Pivot” strategy, under which it plans exports, the sources said. moving to force the British government to (2018)”. to invest more into China’s Pearl River Even as officials on both sides discussed the possibility, rein in the tax. The decision to stay in London comes Delta north of Hong Kong which already Russia and OPEC continued to pump oil at some of the “We had no negotiation with the gov- after a tumultuous period for European accounts for half of HSBC’s China revenue. highest levels in recent times last month, suggesting both ernment,” HSBC Chairman Douglas Flint banks, whose shares have tumbled on fears The Hong Kong Monetary Authority, which LONDON: A general view of the headquarters of told BBC radio yesterday. “The government of a global economic slowdown and the had earlier said it would welcome an HSBC were locked in a fierce struggle for market share. the banking giant HSBC, with the Poplar Dockland Benchmark Brent crude has fallen around 70 percent since was very well aware of our view ... but there impact on earnings from a prolonged peri- move to Hong Kong, said it respected the Light Railway station in front, at Canary Wharf in mid-2014. —Reuters certainly was no pressure put on, or no od of low or negative interest rates. HSBC board’s decision to maintain the status London yesterday. —AP negotiation”. The waiver on applying the shares are down more than 30 percent quo. —Reuters TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 BUSINESS Storm clouds over Italy’s budget horizon

ROME: Italy’s public finance difficulties are leeway in the rules and attacked the save the country from bankruptcy. minded governments in Lisbon and Madrid to corporate and income tax in 2017. At the set to deepen as its economy weakens, and Commission’s “budget pedants”. Experience But Renzi faces a toxic combination of thrown out of office recently and does not same time, he has pledged to narrow the it may be punished by the markets even if suggests a face-saving compromise will be faltering growth, stalled privatizations and, want to follow suit. His approval ratings deficit in 2017 down to 1.1 percent of GDP. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi reaches a com- reached. But the Commission knows it risks despite the shield of the European Central have slumped over the last year and How he hopes to perform this feat has not promise with the European Commission losing credibility. “Italy has benefited more Bank’s bond-buying program, higher bor- domestic hostility to cuts remains high due yet been explained. over this year’s budget. than any other country from budget flexibil- rowing costs. to the listless economy and high unem- Gustavo Piga, an economics professor at Gross domestic product grew just 0.1 ity,” its Deputy President Jyrki Katainen said There is also a growing risk of a full- ployment. He is under pressure from oppo- Rome’s Tor Vergata University, urged him to percent in the last quarter of 2015, data this month. “If we go on with this flexibility blown Italian banking crisis. The country’s sition parties eager to cash in on the strong take his dispute with the Commission even showed on Friday, as the recovery from a of the rules we won’t have any more rules.” lenders, burdened with some 200 billion rise in anti-European sentiment among further and renege on his budget commit- three-year recession petered out. The offi- But even if a deal is done, it will only push euros of bad loans, have lost almost 30 per- ordinary Italians. ments for 2017. cial forecast of 1.6 percent growth in 2016 back the problems for a few more months, cent of their value on the Milan stock mar- Nevertheless, Italy signed the tougher “Italy needs real fiscal stimulus,” he said. already looks far out of reach. Tax revenues and they are getting bigger all the time. ket this year. The gap between the yields on “fiscal compact” that the eurozone drew up “Renzi should tackle the 20 percent of may also disappoint, making it less likely 10-year government bonds (BTPs) yields in 2012 in response to the debt crisis, man- wasteful spending in the state sector, while Italy can bring down its huge debt for the DEBT MOUNTAIN and safer German Bunds has climbed to dating steep annual debt falls. It even made launching a program of public investment first time in eight years as Renzi has prom- Having delayed promised debt reduc- more than 1.3 percentage points from 0.9 annual balanced budgets a constitutional and hiking the budget deficit target to 4 ised. In another blow, officials say privatiza- tions for four years now, Rome would have points in December. requirement. But Rome has yet to put the percent.” Renzi is unlikely to follow that tions of the state railways and public air to make a much bigger fiscal adjustment to Some analysts fear Italy could follow rules into practice. Its debt has climbed advice, even with problems mounting from traffic control company are unlikely to go meet its commitments in 2017. Its public Portugal, whose bond yields posted their steadily and parliament has voted each all sides. Although growth is weakening, ahead this year as planned due to difficult debt ratio of more than 130 percent of eco- biggest weekly rise for more than three year to allow itself a special exemption to Italy has been out of recession for more market conditions. nomic output is the second-highest in the years last week as investors fretted over the balanced budget law. than a year, meaning that under current Before these setbacks, Renzi was already euro zone after Greece’s, and unless Renzi Lisbon’s public finances and the health of rules justification for more EU budget lee- locked in an unusually heated row with wins even more concessions he will have to the world economy. SQUARING THE CIRCLE way has all but disappeared. Brussels over his 2016 budget, which the find cuts of more than 15 billion euros ($17 “Italy is definitely vulnerable. As long as This year, if the Commission does not “There is no more room for flexibility, Commission says risks breaking the EU’s fis- billion) in 2017. there is a risk-off environment, there is a risk force Renzi to amend his budget, the deficit and it wouldn’t be good for Italy either,” said cal rules after he raised targets for the budg- Rome has not seen that kind of that the BTP-Bund spread could widen fur- will fall marginally to 2.4 percent of gross Daniel Gros, head of the Brussels-based et deficit and public debt. It will give a defin- entrenchment since the height of the 2011 ther,” said Daniel Lenz, a bond strategist at domestic product from 2.6 percent in 2015. economic think-tank CEPS. “Now, with mar- itive verdict in the spring, and may ask for debt crisis when former prime minister DZ Bank. Renzi must call an election by ear- After cutting taxes by more than 5 billion kets more averse to risk, Italy would be well adjustments. Renzi has demanded more Mario Monti passed draconian measures to ly 2018 at the latest. He has seen austerity- euros this year, Renzi has slated deeper cuts advised to be very prudent.” — Reuters

News in brief UAE’s Aldar Properties

Saudi Electricity expands sukuk program to $2.5bn manages stock release DUBAI: Saudi Electricity Co, the Gulf’s largest utility firm, said yesterday its board had approved expanding the amount of its planned US dollar-denominated sukuk program to $2.5 billion from $1.5 billion. Funds ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi’s Aldar Properties is scheme on Reem Island which was 90 per- ings of 760 million dirhams before the quar- recurring revenue assets, which contributed from the issuance will be used to finance some of the monitoring the amount of real estate it puts cent sold, Dhiyebi said. The state-linked terly breakdown was provided. The figure 62 percent of earnings in 2015 versus 34 company’s capital projects, it said in a bourse statement up for sale as it tries to manage the impact builder of Abu Dhabi’s Formula One circuit was above both the earnings recorded in percent in the previous year and would be a without elaborating. of a slowdown in the sector, a company said it made a profit attributable to equity the corresponding period of 2014 and the buffer against any slowdown in the market, executive said yesterday. holders of 735 million dirhams ($200.1 mil- 512.7 million dirham forecast of an analyst Fewer said. Aldar’s shares were down 2 per- He was speaking after the developer lion) in the three months to Dec. 31. at SICO Bahrain. cent at 0857 GMT against a 0.5 percent dip Egypt’s CIB agrees to reported a 5.6 percent rise in fourth-quarter Reuters had previously calculated earn- The growth was driven by income from in the wider market.— Reuters sell CI Capital for $118m net attributable profit, helped by higher CAIRO: Egypt’s largest listed company, Commercial recurring revenue from assets such as shop- International Bank (CIB), said in a statement yesterday ping malls, schools and hotels. OPEC members increasingly it had accepted an offer from Orascom Telecom to buy Economic growth in Gulf countries is its investment banking arm CI Capital for 924 million slowing as low oil prices have led to spend- keen to end oil glut: Nigeria Egyptian pounds ($118.01 million). Orascom Telecom ing curbs and job cuts across major sectors. Residential prices in Abu Dhabi, capital of plans to merge CI Capital with Beltone Financial, which ABUJA: The mood inside the Organization of are looking at what are the deficiencies, what nomic sanctions brings more crude to the it bought last year. the United Arab Emirates and home to most of the UAE’s oil reserves, rose 25 percent in the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is is the optimum.” market. OPEC has declined to trim output 2013 and 2014 but flattened in 2015. shifting from mistrust to a growing consensus Struggling oil producers have made without help from non-members, which so far that a decision must be reached on how to repeated calls for an emergency OPEC meet- have refused to participate. Russia, the world’s “We’re watching how much we’re releas- Saudi’s Arabian Cement end the global oil price rout, Nigeria’s oil minis- ing, but Kachikwu said that the timing had not biggest oil producer, has played coy by float- ing into the market,” Aldar Chief ter told Reuters. Oil prices have slumped by been right. The cartel’s next regular meeting is ing the idea of a cut without saying whether it cuts H2 dividend Development Officer Talal Al-Dhiyebi told DUBAI: Arabian Cement yesterday said it was proposing a more than 70 percent to near $30 a barrel over in June. “We haven’t been sure that if we held would participate. reporters on a conference call without giv- cash dividend for the second half of 2015 of 2.5 riyals per the past 18 months as OPEC, led by top pro- those (emergency) meetings that we could In an attempt to find a compromise, ing further details. “In the last two to three share. This compares with a proposed dividend of 3.25 ducer Saudi Arabia, sought to drive higher- actually walk away with some consensus,” Venezuela’s oil minister recently proposed a months, we’ve seen a slight slowdown on riyals per share for the prior-year period, according to cost producers out of the market by refusing Kachikwu said. “A lot of barrels are tumbling freeze on new production to place a cap on demand but we are selling at a smaller rate.” Thomson Reuters data. to cut production despite a supply glut. out of the market from non-OPEC members, so the growing glut while not requiring countries Transaction volumes in Abu Dhabi were The price crash has crippled some the Saudi philosophy is obviously working. to surrender market share. also flat, according to Matthew Green, head economies that depend heavily on oil sales for But it’s not influencing the price higher, which Kachikwu said that he would meet his of research at consultancy CBRE Middle income, such as Nigeria and Venezuela, and means that whether we like it or not some bar- Qatari and Saudi counterparts next week to Egyptian pound falls East, which could lead to deflationary pres- even Saudi Arabia is shoring up its resources rels are coming in from ... members and non- discuss the situation. “Have we got to the point to 9 pounds against dollar sures. Still, Aldar would raise capital expen- to withstand the painful revenue drop. “There’s members to cover whatever is dropping out.” where we can say there is a definite strategy? CAIRO: The Egyptian pound weakened to 9 against diture to around 2.5 billion dirhams this increased conversation going on. I think when In terms of production reduction or freezing, the dollar on the black market yesterday from 8.85 a year from around 1.1 billion dirhams in we met in December ... they (OPEC members) IEA WARNING no, I don’t think we have got there. But there is day earlier, two black market traders told Reuters. 2015, Chief Financial Officer Greg Fewer were hardly talking to one another. Everyone The International Energy Agency said on a lot of energy (behind the idea),” Kachikwu Egypt, which depends on imports for its food and said, as the company spend on six projects was protecting their own positional logic,” Jan. 19 that oil markets could be oversupplied said. “As you get closer to the statutory (OPEC) energy, is facing a foreign currency crisis and launched since 2014. Nigerian oil minister Emmanuel Ibe Kachiwku by as much as 1.5 million barrels per day in the meeting dates ... you are going to see a lot authorities are under increasing pressure to devalue Most of these projects had strong order told Reuters in an interview. first half of 2016 and warned that prices could more people get active in those conversations the pound. books, including its affordable housing “Now I think you have cross-logic ... they decline further as Iran’s emergence from eco- and try to find solutions.” — Reuters Defying global slump, Iran stock market soars

DUBAI: A leap by the Tehran stock market in the As a result, some commentators are warning will take six to 12 months to start to feed into com- Khodro, which announced a 50/50 venture to total outstanding near $100 million. past four weeks contrasts with gloom in many that the notoriously volatile market may not hold panies’ financials,” said Payam Malayeri, head of build cars with Peugeot, has rocketed 52 percent. “We may see $100 to $200 million of fresh for- bourses around the world and hints at Iran’s on to its gains. “The Tehran bourse is disregard- asset management at Griffon Capital, a Tehran- Pharmaceutical and engineering shares have also eign money in the next 12 months,” Rabii said. That investment potential as its economy, long isolated ing warnings and the condition of world markets based firm which last month launched an offshore surged; banks and petrochemicals have underper- would still be tiny compared to the market’s capi- by sanctions, rejoins the global trading system. ... It is going down the same road as in 2015, the equity fund focused on Iran. formed. talisation, equivalent to $94 billion at the free mar- The TEDPIX index has soared 18.3 percent since result of which will only be a lack of confidence “Investors are discounting that now - they are Almost all new buying of stocks has been by ket exchange rate, but it would begin to establish Jan. 16, when the sanctions were lifted after an and the flight of capital from this market,” the looking ahead to corporate earnings growth in local retail investors. Most foreigners remain cau- foreign investors as a significant force. international deal on Iran’s nuclear program. conservative Nassim news agency said in a com- 2017 and 2018.” Some economists think Iran’s tious and while sending money into Iran has There is plenty of risk. Debts in the banking Average daily trading turnover has tripled from mentary last week. gross domestic product could grow 5 to 6 percent become easier, full international banking ties have sector, red tape and restrictive labour laws may last year to around $150 million. The economy is But many investors are betting that by restor- annually in the next several years. That would not yet been restored. But foreign fund inflows are slow any economic boom. Initially, some compa- still struggling - growth is close to zero, the jobless ing Iran’s links with the rest of the world and boost corporate earnings 15-25 percent a year, picking up. Ramin Rabii, chief executive of Iranian nies or sectors could actually suffer as the lifting of rate exceeds 10 percent and many banks face attracting foreign capital and technology, the Malayeri estimated. Also, dividend yields are high investment group Turquoise Partners, which man- sanctions exposes them to more competition. mountains of bad debt. Political tensions between end of sanctions will trigger a long-term eco- at around 12 percent. ages most foreign portfolio investment on the Renaissance Capital says steel producers’ profit hardliners and moderates could slow efforts to nomic boom. So far, auto stocks have led the rally because of Tehran exchange, estimated $10-20 million had margins may shrink as imports of cheap metal address these problems. “The actual benefits of the lifting of sanctions prospects for tie-ups with foreign firms; Iran entered in the past three months, bringing the increase. —Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. GOLD Saudi Riyals 80.585 Asia 20 Gram 247.810 Jordanian Dinar 422.110 Bangladesh Taka 0.003426 0.004026 10 Gram 126.830 ASIAN COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound 38.157 Chinese Yuan 0.044080 0.047580 5 Gram 64.260 Japanese Yen 2.644 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.084 Hong Kong Dollar 0.036510 0.039260 Indian Rupees 4.394 Indian Rupees 4.400 Indian Rupee 0.004133 0.004523 Pakistani Rupees 2.862 Pakistani Rupees 2.863 UAE Exchange Centre WLL Bangladesh Taka 3.806 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000018 0.000024 Srilankan Rupees 2.081 Philippines Pesso 6.292 Japanese Yen 0.002557 0.002737 Nepali Rupees 2.742 CURRENCIES TELEX TRANSFER PER 1000 Cyprus pound 570.726 Kenyan Shilling 0.003110 0.003110 Singapore Dollar 215.750 Japanese Yen 3.625 Korean Won 0.000238 0.000253 Hongkong Dollar 38.420 Australian Dollar 203.14 Canadian Dollar 219.71 Syrian Pound 2.361 Malaysian Ringgit 0.068288 0.074288 Bangladesh Taka 3.807 Swiss Franc 311.02 Nepalese Rupees 3.737 Nepalese Rupee 0.002836 0.003006 Philippine Peso 6.293 Euro 340.15 Malaysian Ringgit 72.966 Pakistan Rupee 0.002666 0.002946 Thai Baht 8.447 US Dollar 299.60 Chinese Yuan Renminbi 46.238 Philippine Peso 0.006249 0.006529 Thai Bhat 9.384 Sterling Pound 437.30 Sierra Leone 0.000066 0.000072 GCC COUNTRIES Turkish Lira 102.431 Japanese Yen 2.68 Singapore Dollar 0.212094 0.218094 Saudi Riyal 79.843 Bangladesh Taka 3.813 South African Rand 0.012984 0.021484 Qatari Riyal 82.245 Indian Rupee 4.395 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001728 0.002308 Omani Riyal 777.677 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.081 Bahrain Exchange Company Bahraini Dinar 795.140 Nepali Rupee 2.749 Taiwan 0.008920 0.009100 UAE Dirham 81.517 Pakistani Rupee 2.859 Thai Baht 0.008109 0.008659 UAE Dirhams 0.08153 COUNTRY SELL CASH SELLDRAFT ARAB COUNTRIES Bahraini Dinar 0.7962 Europe Arab Egyptian Pound - Cash 36.750 Egyptian Pound 0.03815 British Pound 0.428092 0.437092 Bahraini Dinar 0.786885 0.794885 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 38.282 Jordanian Dinar 0.4261 Czech Korune 0.004526 0.016526 Egyptian Pound 0.034076 0.038412 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.397 Omani Riyal 0.7780 Danish Krone 0.041332 0.046332 Iranian Riyal 0.000083 0.000084 Euro 0.331914 0.339914 Tunisian Dinar 150.530 Qatari Riyal 0.08260 Iraqi Dinar 0.000196 0.000256 Jordanian Dinar 421.980 Saudi Riyal 0.07986 Norwegian Krone 0.030988 0.036188 Romanian Leu 0.085840 0.085840 Jordanian Dinar 0.418045 0.425545 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 2.134 Kuwaiti Dinar 1.000000 1.000000 Syrian Lira 2.134 Slovakia 0.008860 0.018860 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Swedish Krona 0.031719 0.036719 Lebanese Pound 0.000149 0.000249 Morocco Dirham 31.335 Swiss Franc 0.300362 0.310563 Moroccan Dirhams 0.020276 0.044276 Turkish Lira 0.096443 0.106743 Nigerian Naira 0.001227 0.001862 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Rate for Transfer Selling Rate Omani Riyal 0.770854 0.776534 US Dollar Transfer 299.250 US Dollar 299.650 Australasia Qatar Riyal 0.081485 0.082698 Euro 339.950 Canadian Dollar 218.200 Australian Dollar 0.204717 0.216217 Saudi Riyal 0.078913 0.079863 Sterling Pound 437.350 Sterling Pound 435.490 New Zealand Dollar 0.192386 0.201886 Canadian dollar 217.720 Euro 338.430 Syrian Pound 0.001267 0.001487 Tunisian Dinar 0.147127 0.155127 Turkish lira 102.240 Swiss Frank 293.805 America Turkish Lira 0.096443 0.106743 Swiss Franc 309.620 Bahrain Dinar 792.715 Canadian Dollar 0.210949 0.219449 Australian Dollar 216.060 UAE Dirhams 81.825 US Dollars 0.295150 0.299650 UAE Dirhams 0.080493 0.081642 US Dollar Buying 298.050 Qatari Riyals 83.030 US Dollars Mint 0.295650 0.299650 Yemeni Riyal 0.001352 0.001432 BUSINESS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Oil prices fell to 12-year lows before rebounding NBK OIL MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: Market bears continued Energy Agency’s (IEA) forecasts, commodity-dependent exporters from international sanctions. The b/d in the next few months and an level of 3.7 mb/d. Most observers to dominate going into the new may have to be delayed until 2017 including China, Brazil and Russia. Iranian authorities seem confident additional 500,000 b/d by year- reckon that this target is too opti- year, sending benchmark crude oil at the earliest. of returning quickly to internation- end. This would bring Iran’s pro- mistic given the weakened state of prices to a 12-year low in January. Indeed, the IEA reckons that Elevated OPEC production al markets with at least 500,000 duction back to its pre-sanctions oil infrastructure in the country. Amid a ‘perfect storm’ of unremit- 2016 could be the third year in a According to data obtained via ting crude oversupply, continuing row that supply will exceed OPEC secondary sources, OPEC pro- Decline in US shale output stock builds, weakening China-cen- demand by 1.0 mb/d, with the duction fell by 190,000 b/d in World crude supply expanded tered emerging market growth and imbalance only beginning to December to 32.2 mb/d. (Chart 4.) by 2.6 mb/d in 2015, following a strengthening US dollar, ICE unwind in late 2016 and early 2017. This figure now includes output gains of 2.4 mb/d in 2014. (Chart 6.) Brent, the international marker, fell Oil prices are therefore likely to from Indonesia after the country For 2016, however, all eyes will be to $27.8 per barrel ($/bbl) on 20 remain under pressure for longer, was readmitted to the group as its on non-OPEC output and the sup- January, a level last seen in and would require a sooner-than- 13th member at the 4 December ply response to low oil prices. November 2003. Similarly, West expected production cut by OPEC meeting. Having expanded by 1.2 mb/d in Texas Intermediate (WTI), the US (in tandem with Russia) or a steeper Saudi Arabia posted the largest 2015, non-OPEC supply is expected benchmark, dropped to $26.5/bbl. decline in US shale output to see decline among OPEC’s Arab pro- to contract by 600,000 b/d this year, Prices looked to have recovered any significant rise. A supply dis- ducers, with output slipping by according to the IEA. This is largely somewhat by month’s end, howev- ruption arising from a major 40,000 b/d to 10.1 mb/d. (Chart 5.) predicated on output moderating er, with Brent rising by 24% to geopolitical incident remains December marked the tenth con- in the US, where hitherto resilient $34.7/bbl after it was reported that another possibility; with OPEC secutive month that the kingdom US shale production is finally OPEC and Russia might consider a spare production capacity at histor- pumped more than 10 mb/d, beginning to suffer from cutbacks coordinated production cut. ically low levels in relation to global bringing the kingdom’s annual in capital spending and falls in oil In the futures markets, January supply (just shy of 2.5 percent), any average to an all-time high of 10.2 rig activity. was a particularly volatile month, disruption to supply could have an in 2015. The most recent data from the with hedge funds and speculators outsized impact on the oil markets. Riyadh remains deeply commit- US Energy Information seesawing between long and short However, judging by the ease ted to protecting its market share Administration (EIA) showed that positions. Towards the end of the with which markets shrugged off in the current low oil price environ- US crude output growth in 2015 month, many bearish positions the spike in tensions between Iran ment, so any potential cut in OPEC had slowed to 0.9 percent, or were being reversed amid renewed and Saudi Arabia relating to the production would likely be contin- 81,000 b/d, from 12.3 percent in optimism about a potential supply execution of the Shia cleric Nemr gent on the Saudi-led group secur- 2014. According to weekly data cut. Brent prices for delivery in 2017 Al-Nemr in January, markets’ toler- ing the participation of non-OPEC provided by the EIA, US crude out- and 2018 were ranging between ance of geopolitical risk may be nations such as Russia. And even put fell from a high of 9.6 mb/d in $41-$46/bbl, slightly below the higher than previously assumed. then, it is by no means certain that June 2015 to 9.2 mb/d as of 22 consensus of analyst’s forecasts. individual country production quo- January 2016, a decline of 389,000 Nevertheless, despite the four- Oil demand growth tas will be adhered to. b/d, or 4.0 percent. day rally at the tail end of January, World oil demand growth is Production in neighboring Gulf Oil markets are bracing them- market sentiment remains over- expected to slow back down to its countries, with the exception of selves for a volatile year. whelmingly bearish and reflective long-term average of 1.2 mb/d in Kuwait, showed slight gains com- Uncertainty surrounds OPEC’s of the issue at the heart of the oil 2016, after peaking at a five-year pared to November. Output in the potential production response, price downturn: persistent crude high of 1.8 mb/d in 2015, the IEA UAE and Qatar increased by a rela- including the additional volumes of oversupply. With Iran recently has estimated. The stimulus of low- tively small 10,000-20,000 b/d to crude Iran is likely to bring to the unshackled from international er oil prices on oil demand has settle at 2.9 mb/d and 0.67 mb/d, market, and the extent to which sanctions and looking to bring at begun to fade, while warm winter respectively. Kuwaiti output non-OPEC supply will be negatively least another 500,000 barrels per weather in the northern hemi- dropped by 10,000 b/d to 2.7 affected by the oil price downturn. day (b/d) of crude to markets by sphere has suppressed the tradi- mb/d in December. Looking ahead While there seems to be greater mid-2016, any relief that may have tional seasonal boost to oil demand to the rest of 2016, gains in OPEC scope for prices to rise in view of all been coming from a potential (for heating oil). Macroeconomic production are likely to come of the above, it cannot be taken for decline of 600,000 b/d of non-OPEC conditions have also weakened in mainly from Iran, now that the granted that oil prices reached their supply, as per the International several emerging markets and Islamic Republic has been freed bottom in January. Japan economy shrinks in Q4 in body blow for ‘Abenomics’ TOKYO: Japan’s economy contracted in the last quarter of 2015, official data showed yesterday, dealing another blow to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s faltering bid to boost growth. The figures will fan talk of fresh Bank of Japan measures, after policymakers shocked markets last month with an unprecedented negative interest rate policy-widely seen as a desperate move to kickstart the world’s number three economy. Weak demand for big-ticket items like cars and home appliances held back the vast economy which shrank 0.4 percent in October- December-or an annualised 1.4 percent drop. That was Japan’s second quarterly contrac- tion in 2015, although GDP edge up a tepid 0.4 SINGAPORE: This general view shows the exterior of US engine maker Pratt & percent for the whole year, underscoring Tokyo’s Whitney’s first manufacturing facility in Singapore yesterday. The company’s sub- challenge in slaying deflation and cementing a sidiary P&W NGPF Manufacturing Company Singapore Pte Ltd will produce fan sustained recovery. Tokyo brushed off the weak blades and other key components for Pratt & Whitney’s new PurePower Geared numbers, saying that “the fundamentals (of the Turbofan (GTF) engine family. — AFP economy) remain good”, but analysts countered that Abe’s growth plan was stumbling. The premier’s bid to revive Japan’s once-soar- Turkish assets weaken ing economy, dubbed Abenomics, has also been shaken by a bloodbath on equity markets since on fears of Syrian war the start of the year and a resurgent yen that TOKYO: Workers take a rest at a park beside a construction site in Tokyo yesterday. Japan’s threatened to dent companies’ profits. economy contracted in the last quarter of 2015, official data showed yesterday, dealing anoth- ISTANBUL: Turkish assets weakened yes- this morning is the killing of a Turkish sol- “The latest data show that it is difficult to say er blow to Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s faltering bid to kickstart the world’s number three terday, bucking the positive trend in dier at the Syrian border and talk of Turkish that the Abe government has achieved of its economy. — AFP emerging markets, on concern that the ground intervention in the region at the goal of a ‘virtuous cycle’ of rising incomes, measures as well as speculation about Tokyo “With what’s going on in the market, this is NATO member is being dragged ever deep- weekend.” The lira was the only emerging wages, and investment,” said Tobias Harris, politi- intervening in currency markets to stem the a temptation.” Abe’s growth plan-big govern- er into the war in neighboring Syria, where market currency weaker against the dollar cal risk analyst at US-based consultancy Teneo. unit’s rise. ment spending, central bank monetary easing government forces and Kurdish fighters are on Monday morning, slipping to 2.9495 by “Japan has remained too dependent on The wild volatility on world markets and and reforms to the highly regulated economy- pressing on its borders. 0851 GMT from 2.9294 late on Friday. export-led growth, which has suffered in light of sharp swings in the yen since the start of 2016 appeared to bear fruit at first. The yen weak- A major offensive has brought the Turkey’s main stock index fell 1.58 per- China’s slowdown and the effects it has had on prompted Abe on Friday to hold an emergency ened sharply, which boosted Japanese Syrian army, backed by Russian bombing cent to 69,813.61 points, lagging behind the global economy.” meeting with Japan’s central bank chief exporters’ profits and sparked a huge stock and Iranian-backed Shi’ite militias, to the main emerging markets index which Japan’s factory output has suffered as worries Haruhiko Kuroda. The BoJ shocked investors by market rally. almost 25 km (15 miles) from the Turkish rose 1.82 percent. persist about global growth, with revised data announcing the negative rate policy last month, But sustained growth has been elusive and border. Kurdish fighters have meanwhile The 10-year benchmark bond yield rose Monday showing industrial production contract- a plan that aims to prod banks into lending by Abe’s efforts to overhaul the economy have been exploited the violence, expanding their to 10.75 percent from 10.72 percent on ed 1.7 percent in December, worse than a pre- charging them for storing excess reserves with it. widely criticised as half-hearted. Tokyo will be foothold in territory abutting Turkey and Friday. Turkey began strikes on Saturday liminary 1.4 percent drop. However Tokyo’s But as his growth programme wobbles and watching labour talks this spring closely for signs drawing Turkish shelling. Defence Minister on the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia, which it Nikkei 225 stock index soared more than seven the BoJ struggles to hit an ambitious two-per- that firms are ready to put more cash into Ismet Yilmaz denied a report that Turkish sees as an extension of the Kurdistan percent Monday, boosted by bargain-buying cent inflation target, Abe must decide whether employees’ pockets, which would offer hope for a soldiers had entered Syria at the weekend Workers Party (PKK) which has waged a and a weaker yen following last week’s 11 per- to follow through with another sales tax hike pick-up in consumer spending. “The government and said Ankara was not planning such a three-decade insurgency for autonomy in cent drop. next year. The rise is seen as key to containing a plans to raise the consumption tax in 2017, so we move, but market nerves were heightened southeast Turkey and is seen by the United spiralling national debt, but it could further dent will probably see an increase in spending later by the death of a Turkish soldier on the bor- States and European Union as a terrorist ‘Not carved in stone’ spending. “It is not carved in stone, if the real this year ahead of the hike,” said Taro Saito, senior der. “Domestic geopolitical concerns are group. The YPG is, however, backed by The yen, which surged four percent last week problems are going on he can push it out,” said economist at NLI Research Institute. “But I don’t affecting us negatively despite some opti- both the United States and Russia in its against the dollar, turned lower Monday on talk Nicholas Smith, Japan strategist at brokerage think we should expect the fundamentals of the mism on a global basis,” said a forex desk fight against Islamic State, much to about the BoJ unveiling fresh monetary easing CLSA, referring to the planned tax rise. Japanese economy to recover easily.” — AFP trader at one Istanbul-based bank, declin- Turkey’s chagrin, even though Moscow ing to be named. backs Syrian President Bashar al-Assad “The reason for the lira performing more while Washington and Ankara insist he negatively than other developing countries must go. — Reuters Loan-deposit shift boosts New Zealand Inc on M&A radar after $1.33bn deals Saudi; most markets firm WELLINGTON: A pair of diverse New “advanced discussions” with the bidders. MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS Zealand firms said they received takeover Separately software company Diligent offers worth $1.33 billion in total, as low Corp said its board had agreed a NZ$941 DUBAI: Saudi Arabian stocks rose sharply yesterday But Arabian Cement dropped 1.8 percent after it lion) net loss for 2015 compared to a 36.7 million interest rates and the weak Kiwi dollar million buyout offer from US investment after the central bank raised banks’ maximum loan- said it was proposing a cash dividend for the second dirham profit in 2014. combine to put a range of companies in firm Insight Venture Partners. Diligent deposit ratio, while most other bourses in the region half of 2015 of 2.5 riyals per share, down from 3.25 But shipper Gulf Navigation rose 3.5 percent after a low-flying market firmly on the radar said its board has recommended share- were buoyed by a rebound of global markets. The riyals a year ago. it reported that its profit doubled last year. for global dealmakers. holders accept the deal. Saudi central bank, seeking to ease tightening liquidity Real estate stocks buoyed Qatar’s bourse after Telecommunications firm du fell sharply in early trade With one offer for an industrial manu- “There’s been a lot of talk that there’s caused by low oil prices, increased the ratio of deposits strong earnings from United Development Co, the after reporting a 10.1 percent fall in fourth-quarter facturer and another bid - already agreed potential for mergers and acquisitions in that commercial banks can lend out to 90 percent from most heavily traded stock, which jumped 6.7 percent profit, but it closed flat. Shares in du’s bigger rival, Abu - for a software maker, New Zealand the market as a whole and we are only 85 percent, industry sources told Reuters. in its highest volume since last July.The company Dhabi-listed Etisalat , rose 1.3 percent after it posted a watchers said on Monday the deals may now really starting to see it,” said Philip That may not make much difference in the long reported a 10.2 percent rise in 2015 net profit and rec- 2.7 percent rise in quarterly profit. The Abu Dhabi term to the pressures on Saudi banks, which face ommended a dividend of 1.5 riyals per share, up from index rose 0.8 percent. be the start of a broad wave of interest, Hunter, a broker with First NZ Capital. deteriorating credit quality as the economy slows as 1.25 riyals a year earlier. Other real estate shares rose In Egypt, the stock index also gained 0.8 percent as tipping cash-rich private equity houses Low interest rates combined with a weak well as demands on their funds from heavy govern- in sympathy, with Barwa Real Estate gaining 7.7 per- billionaire Naguib Sawiris’s Orascom Telecom surged as future potential asset buyers. New Zealand dollar create “a conducive ment bond issuance. The three-month Saudi inter- cent, and the overall Qatari index surged 2.7 percent. 3.7 percent. Beltone Financial soared 10 percent for a In the larger of the two deals, resins environment,” Hunter said. bank offered rate edged up on Monday to 1.73125 third straight trading day. and coating company Nuplex Industries Shares in both Nuplex and Diligent percent from 1.72875 percent. But the central bank’s DUBAI, EGYPT Commercial International Bank accepted Sawiris’s Ltd said Belgian rival Allnex Belgium surged on the deal news. Nuplex said it move was a welcome effort by authorities to support Dubai’s index fell 0.3 percent as DAMAC Properties bid to buy its investment arm CI Capital, market SA/NV, backed by private equity firm had first entered talks with Allnex last the economy, and the Saudi banking stock index slipped 0.8 percent and builder Drake & Scull , which sources said on Sunday; Orascom plans to merge CI Advent International Corp, made a bid October, and that after three revisions on climbed 2.1 percent. The overall Saudi equities index had risen on Sunday because of better-than-expected Capital with Beltone. Giza General Contracting valuing the company at around NZ$1.05 deal terms it now considers the offer to rose 2.4 percent as petrochemical giant Saudi Basic fourth-quarter earnings, fell back 0.9 percent. Islamic jumped 7.5 percent in heavy trade after a disclosure billion ($695 million). Nuplex said it’s in be “attractive” for shareholders. —Reuters Industries SE> gained 3.1 percent. Major real estate Arab Insurance Co fell 2.9 percent in unusually heavy statement showed a purchase of 1.17 million shares in developer Dar Al Arkan rose 2.3 percent. trade after it posted a 162.8 million dirham ($44.4 mil- it by a related party. — Reuters TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 BUSINESS Shares climb as firmer yuan eases deflation fears

LONDON: World stocks rose sharply yester- cent on Wall Street but U.S. markets will be unwound somewhat,” said RIA Capital back in the oil price. Brent and US after losing 10 percent of its value so day as China’s central bank fixed the yuan at closed for a holiday. Markets strategist Nick Stamenkovic. crude futures edged up yesterday far this year. European shares followed a much stronger rate and oil cemented Meanwhile, assets that tend to perform In China, spot yuan jumped more than 1 adding to Friday’s 10 percent surge on in their wake, led by a 4 percent recent gains, easing fears of global deflation. well in times of stress lagged. The Japanese percent to 6.4934 per dollar - its firmest this speculation that the Organization of rebound in banking stocks on news The rally belied a string of poor economic yen lost ground against the US dollar, top- year - after the People’s Bank of China set its the Petroleum Exporting Countries that the European Central Bank (ECB) is data from Beijing and Tokyo as demand for rated German bond yields edged away daily midpoint 0.3 percent stronger and the (OPEC) might finally agree to cut out- in talks to buy bundles of Italian bad safe-haven assets waned, yet investors from nine-month lows and gold slipped 2 head of the bank was quoted as saying put to reduce a world glut. Eurozone bank loans as part of its asset-purchase remained on edge due to lingering con- percent after its strongest week in four speculators should not be allowed to domi- long-term inflation expectations also program. cerns about growth and the health of the years. nate market sentiment. rebounded from record lows on Yet some strategists cautioned that financial sector. European stocks rose 3 per- “We had a very strong statement from A stronger yuan reduces the risk that Monday even as Germany’s yesterday’s rebound may prove short- cent, having shed nearly 10 percent over the the Chinese authorities signaling they are China will export deflation to the world, Bundesbank cut its forecast for con- lived, with concern that central banks last fortnight, mirroring a bounce in Asia. committed to a stable currency and that’s while worries about consumer price sumer price growth in the bloc’s have little ammunition left to fight off Futures pointed to notional gains of 1.6 per- helped sentiment ... safe-haven flows have growth have also been helped by bounce biggest economy. the heady mix of an oil-induced defla- tionary forces, capital outflows and DISCONNECT economic weakness in China, and pres- China’s weak exports and imports in sure on the world’s financial sector. January, down 11.2 percent and 18.8 “It’s possible we could see calmer percent year-on-year respectively, markets this week but we are not out of seemed not to disturb markets. The the woods yet,” Thomas Harr. global resulting jump in the country’s trade head of fixed income and currency surplus to $63 billion for the month research at Danske Bank in might have helped, as that may offer Copenhagen. support to the yuan. “For the last couple of weeks we The disconnect between markets have seen a bit of central bank fatigue - and economics was perhaps starkest in they have cut rates into negative but it Japan, where the Nikkei jumped more isn’t having much of an impact.” than 7 percent, putting its worst week Against a basket of currencies, the dol- since the depths of the global financial lar was up slightly at 96.433 having crisis in 2008 quickly behind it. This been at its lowest in almost four came despite data showing the econo- months. Likewise, it edged up to 113.99 my contracted by an annualised 1.4 yen, having touched a 15-month percent in the last three months of trough just under 111.00 last week. 2015, more than expected. The euro was last down 0.6 percent MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific at $1.1184, having slipped from a 3-1/2 shares outside Japan rose 2.3 percent, month peak of $1.1377. —Reuters TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 BUSINESS Sarajevo joins Air Arabia’s growing European network

SHARJAH: Air Arabia, the first and round Sarajevo offer a range of recre- International Airport at 13:10 and will largest low-cost carrier (LCC) in the ational and sporting activities, including land in the Sharjah International Airport Middle East and North Africa has added a well-developed skiing industry. at 20:35. another European destination to its route Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Air Arabia added 23 routes to its net- network with the addition of direct Officer of Air Arabia, said: “Following 12 work in 2015, including becoming the flights between Sharjah and Sarajevo months of significant expansion, Air first low-cost airline from the Middle East starting from March 18, 2016. Arabia is delighted to begin 2016 with and Africa to enter the Chinese market Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia the launch of a new European service. with the launch of regular non-stop serv- and Herzegovina and is home to more Sarajevo is a great all-year-round destina- ices to Urumqi, the largest city in Western than half a million people. The historic tion and we anticipate very healthy China. city, which was influenced by the Roman, demand for the service when it launches Sarajevo joins an array of Eastern Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, and in March.” European destinations served directly Austro-Hungarian empires, is a popular Flights will operate on Wednesdays, from Air Arabia’s hub in Sharjah. The car- tourism destination throughout the year. Fridays and Sundays, departing Sharjah rier also serves a range of cities in The city centre boasts a wide array of International Airport at 08.15 arriving at Western and Southern Europe through attractions, shops, restaurants and cafes, Sarajevo International Airport at 12:20. its Air Arabia Maroc operation based in while the hills and mountains which sur- Return flights will leave Sarajevo Casablanca. India faces hurdles despite better economic conditions Asiya Capital Investments Report By Camille Accad government, which has been hav- reduce interest rates further in the Janata Party (BJP), which leads the ing to pay less for subsidies, will first half of 2016, with potentially government, needs to hold a KUWAIT: The Indian economy has find it easier to reduce its fiscal more cuts as the US economic majority in the Rajya Sabha, India’s been resilient in an environment of deficit. Wholesale energy prices slowdown delays the Federal upper house. The lack of a majority slowing global growth and market have also been falling sharply in Reserve’s plans to raise interest there has hampered the govern- volatility, with GDP growth esti- the economy, which has helped rates. On the fiscal front, lower sub- ment’s ability to implement large- mated to accelerate to more than 7 boost manufacturing. Second, the sidy expenses will give room for scale reforms. State elections will percent YoY in the current fiscal Indian rupee depreciated around the government to spend more continue to take place in the next year ending in March. The IMF and 10 percent in the last twelve freely on other matters, which fiscal year, which will determine the Indian government expect months. The improvement in com- should be confirmed in the budget whether the BJP will get hold of GDP to keep accelerating next fis- cal year. According to the IMF, low- er commodity prices and a pickup in investment as a result of recent policy reforms will benefit growth. In our view, these projections may have to be trimmed down. SINGAPORE: Bob Leduc (second left), president of US engine maker Pratt & GDP for the fourth quarter of Whitney, shakes hands with Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry S 2015 was released last week and Iswaran (second right) as P&W’s senior vice president Danny Di Perma (left) registered a growth rate of 7.3 per- and David Hess (right), the executive vice president and chief customer officer cent YoY, a deceleration from an in aerospace for United Technologies, look on during the opening ceremony of upwardly revised 7.7 percent in the Pratt & Whitney’s first manufacturing facility in Singapore yesterday. —AFP third quarter. Investments grew by the least in over a year, exports wit- nessed the sharpest decline in Deal or no deal; how to more than four years and imports contracted by the most in two think and write about OPEC years. The main positive take away from the latest release was the LONDON: “Will Saudi Arabia, Iran and improved over time (“Verification of fore- increase in private consumption Russia reach a deal to boost oil prices by casts expressed in terms of probability”, growth. Also, imports contracted cutting production?” is precisely the sort Brier, 1950). more than exports which led to an of forecasting challenge tackled in Philip Expressing forecasts in percentage increase in the trade balance, an Tetlock’s book on “Superforecasting”. I terms becomes particularly important encouraging development regard- have no idea if Tetlock and his colleagues when the probability is likely to change ing India’s plans to reduce its cur- have put this particular question to the over time in response to unfolding events. rent account deficit. Overall, the panel of forecasters assembled by the Good forecasts are regularly reviewed and latest release of GDP showed that Good Judgment Project but their views updated in the light of new information external factors were benefiting petitiveness should help strength- later this month. Moreover, an the upper house majority. Second, would be fascinating. that confirms or contradicts the original the economy - the IMF expects en India’s weak export sector. expected increase in public worker more rainfalls are needed. Rural The question of whether there will be a assessment (“Psychology of intelligence them to continue doing so - but Major forecasters do not expect oil salaries will support household areas have suffered from two con- deal has polarised opinion among oil ana- analysis”, Heuer, 1999). that the domestic economy was prices and the rupee to recover, consumption growth, but the secutive years of drought, hurting lysts, traders and journalists, all of whom Any production-cutting deal between facing hurdles, which in our view which should continue to have a wage raises might take time to be the agricultural sector. A better can cite reasons why an agreement will or OPEC and non-OPEC countries could have will hold back growth next fiscal positive impact on growth in the implemented. harvest would give a much-needed will not be reached. a significant impact on oil prices if it were year. fiscal year 2016-17. Monetary and fiscal policies will boost to the primary sector. Passions run high on the subject and perceived as credible. So the probability On the external front, two key Domestic economic conditions help create a business-friendly Overall, both factors are out of the perspectives are becoming increasingly of a deal must therefore weigh heavily in factors will contribute positively to are a bit more mixed. Inflation and domestic environment. However, government’s hands and will have entrenched, which should make a neutral any forecast for oil prices even if the likeli- growth next fiscal year. First, as a policy rates are at the lowest levels two key factors need to change in to improve before the IMF’s and observer cautious about whether the pro- hood remains only 5 percent, 10 percent net oil importer, the decline in the since the global financial crisis. The order for growth to pick up next the government’s projections can fessional forecasters are becoming over- or 20 percent. The problem is that most price of oil is benefiting India. The central bank is widely expected to fiscal year. First, the Bharatiya materialize. confident. major commentators have avoided issu- Like all forecasts in politics, economics ing a forecast in percentage terms, mak- and international relations, any prediction ing it hard to assess the consequences about whether there will be a deal must and accuracy. EU steel workers protest be probabilistic (“Superforecasting: the Percentage forecasts would enable art and science of prediction”, Tetlock and traders, investors and policymakers to Gardner, 2015). There is no clear answer. understand how the forecast changes There must be some chance of a deal over time in response to comments from cheap Chinese imports happening, however slim, so the proba- key participants and incoming data on bility must be greater than zero, but it is supply, demand and stocks. If crude oil not certain to occur, so the probability stocks around the world continue climb- BRUSSELS: Steel company managers joined to Beijing. The European steel industry is accus- ers ringed some of the EU institutions to push must be less than one. ing, does that make a production-cutting thousands of their employees from across the ing China of illegal export subsidies and selling their demands to keep Chinese steel at bay. The Most of the expert commentary at the deal more or less likely, and if so by how European Union to protest yesterday against the products below production cost, all of which industry argued that if the EU recognizes China moment employs phrases such as “unlike- much? import of cheap Chinese products and to warn contributes to the crisis in the European steel as a market economy, a status that would allow ly”, “highly unlikely” or “remains improba- If US shale output starts to fall more the 28-nation bloc not to open the doors further sector. With whistles and firecrackers, the work- for even more imports, it would cost tens of ble” to convey the low probability of a quickly, does that increase or reduce the thousands of jobs. deal. chance of a production-cutting deal? “Everybody understands that there is a high The problem is that these words, com- If Russia’s economy slows more than need to act,” said Geert Van Poelvoorde, presi- mon in everyday speech, can convey expected, or Saudi Arabia’s reserves fall widely different estimates about the faster than expected, what does that do dent of the Eurofer industry group, which was probability of an event happening. Does to the prospect of a deal? The only way to behind the march. The EU currently has 37 trade unlikely correspond to a probability of think consistently about the oil market and legal actions going to make sure that steel less than 50 percent, less than 40 percent, outlook is in terms of probabilities (and imports are fair and provide for a level playing less than 30 percent or something else? the degrees of uncertainty that surround field, something which is especially critical in an What do highly unlikely and improbable them). age of overproduction and dumping into the actually mean? Given what we know about the past European markets. If China is given the recogni- The US intelligence community has activities of the US intelligence commu- tion of a market economy it would become been grappling ambiguity in the way nity, it is probable or almost certain ordinary language is used to express (using Kent’s terminology) that an intelli- even more difficult to take action against trade probability for over 50 years (“Words of gence analyst in Washington has already which is deemed unfair. The European steel sec- estimative probability”, Kent, 1964). been asked to produce an estimate of the tor employs some 330,000 people but the indus- Sherman Kent, the father of modern chance of a production-cutting deal for try official say hundreds of thousands of jobs are intelligence analysis, even tried to map the president and other senior policy- also at risk in the ceramics, glass, solar panels the terms used in common writing by makers. and other sectors. The Aegis alliance of major analysts into numerical probabilities The intelligence community’s forecast European industries says that three quarters of (http://tmsnrt.rs/1oDmZla). is almost certainly couched in probabilis- Kent’s efforts were never entirely tic terms. The public discussion in the all EU anti-dumping measures involve China and accepted but have powerfully shaped the media and the markets should follow the that the complaints about Beijing are only way in which intelligence analysts think same track. The next time someone says a increasing. A country might sell below produc- about and express their forecasts. production deal is unlikely or growing tion costs to gain market share or to clear out The best forecasts express likelihood more probable, challenge them to put a BRUSSELS: Steel workers hold placards reading “Stop China dumping” during a protest stock. “Market economy status to China would and uncertainty in percentage terms so percentage figure on that statement, and to demand urgent action against cheap Chinese imports, in front of the European be a full license to dump whenever and in every their accuracy can be evaluated after the ask what would cause them to update Commission in Brussels yesterday. About 5,000 protesters asked the European sector China wants to do it,” said Aegis fact and the forecasting process has that assessment. —Reuters Commission to ramp up tariffs on China to stop the dumping cut-price. —AFP spokesman Milan Nitzschke said. —AP Boeing official: Asian carriers more cautious with orders

SINGAPORE: Asian airlines which were famed in Singapore Airshow, said the time for big-ticket them are doing fine. In fact some of them want firmed an order for 250 A320neo planes from would be coming from North America. the past for multi-billion-dollar orders have orders may be over, replaced by smaller buys with their airplanes early, and our backlog is over 5,000 Europe’s Airbus in a deal worth $26.5 billion at cat- Speaking at an aviation conference yesterday, become more cautious in the face of thinner prof- shorter replacement cycles. “From the Boeing airplanes now so it’s difficult to accelerate any- alogue prices at that time. Tyler said Asia-Pacific carriers are expected to gen- its and a global economic downturn, a Boeing point of view, we are in a good spot,” said Keskar, body’s airplanes.” Tony Tyler, director-general of the International erate $6.6 billion in profit this year, equating to executive said yesterday. “In terms of the low-cost carrier market, our However, airlines had become more cautious. Air Transport Association, said Sunday some air- just over $5.0 per passenger, compared to $21 per “Nobody has come to us and asked for any big customer here (in Southeast Asia) is Lion Air. “You haven’t seen any substantial orders from this lines in the region may try to push back their passenger in North America. Airline savings from deferral,” said Dinesh Keskar, senior vice president We have delivered 165 airplanes for them and part of the world (recently) and I think there was a orders due to softer profits. low fuel costs are being eroded by hedging losses for sales at Boeing Commercial Airplanes covering they continue to take deliveries on time,” he told time when a hundred-plane order was considered He said that while airlines worldwide are and a strong dollar, Tyler said, noting that the the Asia-Pacific and India. reporters. “When we look at airlines like Virgin the fashion. It isn’t the case right now,” Keskar said. expected to deliver $36 billion in profits this year, greenback climbed 20 percent over the past 18 But Keskar, speaking on the eve of the Australia, Jet Airways or Spice Jet in India all of In August last year, Indian airline IndiGo con- up 10 percent from 2015, the majority of this months. —AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 press releases

Celebrate Hala February with Nissan Al-Babtain Genuine Parts $10,000 Grand Prize & 10 Winners Every Week

KUWAIT: As always, Abdulmohsen ter, the customer will be entitled to a Nissan Al-Babtain Genuine parts will integrity and total dedication, gaining a sphere of activities; including automotive, Abdulaziz Al-Babtain Co (AABC), the coupon which gives them a chance to hold a grand raffle draw at Nissan Al- solid reputation in the State of Kuwait and technology, investment, information exclusive agent of Nissan in the State of enter both the weekly and the grand Babtain showroom, Al-Rai to announce the Middle East area. technology, industrial and Finance. Kuwait, continues surprising their loyal draw. the $10,000 cash prize lucky winner, as a Today, Al-Babtain Group has licensing The automotive sector is the main customers with exclusive offers and gifts This exclusive promotion offers 40 finale for the celebration of the Hala rights for some of the world’s leading activity within Al-Babtain Group’s busi- in celebration of Kuwait’s National and prizes that consist of 10 giveaways week- February festival on Thursday March 16, brands stretching the globe from the USA ness, which represents some of the best- Independence day. This exclusive Hala ly, which include, a fully paid trip for two 2016. to the Far East. For more than 60 years, selling brands in Kuwait, in addition to Feb offer gives all their customers the (Air tickets and Hotel accommodation to Nissan Al-Babtain Genuine Parts, is Al-Babtain Group has experienced contin- heavy equipment. chance to win 10 weekly prizes and a the destination of your choice), Two known for always providing the cus- ued success and a large measure of this The Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al- grand raffle of 10,000$ cash up until the Iphone6s and seven 50KD Al-Babtain tomers with exceptional offers through- success came from the Group’s advanced Babtain Co. (AABC) is proud to be the 29th of February 2016. coupons, all on a weekly basis. Draws are out the year, the Hala February offer is a flexible management style and long-term exclusive agent and distributor of leading With each purchase of KD20 or above, on Mondays and as follow: 8th of continuation of the years surprises. vision. These astounding results were Japanese, European (French) and Chinese of Nissan Genuine parts from the Nissan February, 15th of February and 22nd of Al-Babtain Group was founded in achieved due to a versatile strategic for- vehicles in Kuwait such as Nissan, Infiniti Aftersales parts counter and service cen- February. 1948, to present a model of honesty, mula focusing on growth amongst its Renault & Citroen. Wadi Alsabeel Complex executed by KFH arm Kuwaiti Manager opens Bahraini CP inaugurates complex built at a cost of BHD 15m

KUWAIT: “Kuwait Finance House Complex executed by KFH’s sub- GCC, and the cooperation frame- entertainment venues. (KFH) is keen on assuming a signif- sidiary “Kuwaiti Manager”, in pres- work among its peoples, reiterat- Al-Khayyat added that this proj- icant role in supporting the devel- ence of Prince Salman bin Hamad ing KFH’s confidence in the robust ect will contribute in flourishing opment plans in the countries it bin Isa Al-Khalifa, Crown Prince of Bahraini economy that is charac- the retail sector in the Kingdom, operates in through the execution Bahrain, Deputy Supreme terized by an abundance of privi- while increasing job opportunities. of several projects, be it directly or Commander and the First Deputy leges and opportunities. He extended his thanks to the gov- indirectly through one of its sub- Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Meanwhile, Managing Director ernment of Bahrain for its cease- sidiaries. KFH achieves civilization- Bahrain, that the project is the first and CEO of KFH-Bahrain less efforts in consistently provid- al and constructional value when of three other projects owned by AbdulHakeem Al-Khayyat congrat- ing the highest level of services executing vital development proj- Bahraini Defense Forces and exe- ulated the Kingdom of Bahrain on offered to citizens and expatriates. ects, mainly in the sector of real cuted by KFH’s subsidiary compa- this remarkable event represented For his part, GM of the Kuwaiti estate and urban development ny “Kuwaiti Manager”. He indicat- by the opening of Wadi Alsabeel Manager Holding Company, Eng. Gulf Bank launches that is essential in energizing the ed, on the sideline of his participa- Commercial Complex that is con- Mohammad Hamed Alshalfan said market, yet offering job opportuni- tion in the inaugural ceremony, sidered as an added value to the that the company, specialized in new salary promotion ties and luring investments,” said that such projects affirm KFH’s retail sector. The complex has been executing and managing real Chairman at KFH, Hamad interest in operating in the gen- designed in a unique style to cre- estate projects, has executed the KUWAIT: Gulf Bank announces the launch for salaries at KD2000 and customers are Abdulmohsen Al-Marzouq. uine economy where KFH views ate links between internal and project in an area of 40,000 square of its new 2016 Salary offer for Kuwaiti salary entitled to a Gulf Bank Visa Signature credit He added in a press release, the Kingdom of Bahrain and external spaces. The complex meters through its subsidiary customers. This new promotion is valid card free for life. Additionally, all customers ahead of the inauguration ceremo- Kuwait as one country and one encompasses three major sections Kuwaiti Manager- Bahrain. The through 31 December 2016. will have the chance to enter a monthly cash ny of Wadi Alsabeel Commercial market within the confines of the which are restaurants, shops and project was delivered ahead of The offer is open to all Kuwaitis who draw to win KD 1,000 and quarterly car schedule with the commitment to transfer their salary payments to Gulf Bank. draws with the chance to win a new Cadillac. implementing the highest stan- Customers gifts are based on the amount of In addition to these exciting prizes, Gulf dards in terms of construction and their salary transfer and include either cash Bank is also offering other benefits as part of finishing. He expressed his appre- or Gulf Rewards incentives. Gulf Rewards is its salary offer. These include an annual fee ciation to the Defense Forces for the fastest and most rewarding points pro- waiver on new Gulf Bank credit cards for the their interest in the project and gram in Kuwait. It includes Gulf Points for first year; loans of up to KD70, 000 payable their role in overcoming obstacles free flights and hotels redemptions, as well over 15 years; and special vehicle discounts which resulted in outstanding as Gulf Bank Entertainer, Kuwait’s first geo- when financing the vehicle through Gulf results. locator mobile application offering exclusive Bank and available from the bank’s dealer- He revealed that the company deals in Kuwait, UAE, and London. ship partners. is currently implementing two oth- Upon transferring their salary, customers Using Gulf Points is easy as Gulf Bank cre- er projects for the Defense Forces will have a choice of prize depending on ated a dedicated webpage on its website which are the specialized clinics their salary range. If the salary amount www.e-gulfbank.com/gulfpoints-en where and parking lots with a value of transferred is between KD600 - KD800, the customers can view their points balances, BHD 21 million and a medical gift is either KD100 or 30,000 Gulf Points; if redeem points instantly online for free training complex project with a salary is between KD800 - KD1999, the flights and hotel stays, and benefit from spe- value of BHD 7 million, in addition choice is either KD200 or 60,000 Gulf Points; cial offers. to other projects in the Kingdom. It is noteworthy that the com- pany executed many projects in Kuwait such as the Headquarters of the Ministry of Awqaf under the Burgan Bank winners supervision of the Public Work Ministry, the public building and of Yawmi account services in Alwafra project in favor of the Public Institution of KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced yes- in the account, will entitle customers to Residential Care, Hanagers project terday the names of the lucky winners one chance of winning. If the account owned to the National Guard, of its Yawmi account draw, each taking balance is KD 500 and above, the MANAMA: Al-Marzouq with Bahraini Crown Prince ahead of inaugurating Wadi Alsabeel Kuwait National Museum Project home a prize of KD 5,000. account holder will be qualified for both Complex. and many others. The lucky winners for the daily draws the quarterly and daily draws. took home a cash-prize of KD 5,000 Burgan Bank encourages everyone to each, and they are: open a Yawmi account and/or increase 1. Bader Ali Yaqoub Al-Wazzan their deposit to maximize their chances Be inspired with flydubai.com 2. Mohammad Zeber Mohammad to becoming a winner. The more cus- Naeem tomers deposit, the higher the chances 3. Hussain Hameed Ahmad Mohammad they receive of winning. KUWAIT: flydubai recently launched its new web- receiving customized content based on their loca- Commenting on the new website Ramesh 4. Sh: Nawal Mohd Al-Jaber Al-Sabah For more information on opening a site, offering an enhanced browsing experience to tion and previous interaction with the site and a lay- Venkat, Chief Information Officer (CIO) at flydubai, 5. Fatma Lilo Naif Shaded Yawmi account or about the new quar- inspire customers to explore its network of 89 desti- out that automatically adjusts depending on the said; “We’re excited to see the launch of our newly To further add to the anticipation of terly draw, customers are urged to visit nations. The airline’s new website, which is available device being used. In addition, new destination designed website. The recent relocation of our reser- Yawmi account customers, Burgan Bank their nearest Burgan Bank branch and in English, Arabic, and Russian, has been redesigned guides and travel tips provide inspiration for plan- vation system from Orlando to Dubai alongside the now offers a Quarterly Draw with more receive all the details, or simply call the to offer a fresh look and feel and many new features. ning the perfect trip, holiday or last-minute getaway redesign of our website confirms our commitment chances to win higher rewards, entitling bank’s Call Center at 1804080 where When visiting flydubai.com, customers are now to one of flydubai’s hidden gems such as Bratislava, to providing our customers with the best possible one lucky customer to win KD 125,000 customer service representatives will be offered a more personalized online experience by Tbilisi and Zanzibar. experience when navigating flydubai.com.” every three months. The Yawmi Account delighted to assist with any questions now offers Daily and quarterly Draws, on the Yawmi account or any of the the Quarterly Draw requires customers bank’s products and services. Customers to maintain a minimum amount of KD can also log on to Burgan Bank’s 500 in their account for 2 months prior www.burgan.com for further informa- to draw date. Additionally, every KD 10 tion.

OgilvyOne MENA reinforces longstanding relationship with Unilever

KUWAIT: Unilever has aligned with approach adopted by Geometry Global OgilvyOne and Geometry Global to man- and OgilvyOne which was a massive con- age its digital and activation plans in the tributing factor to the win. We will work Gulf for three of its prominent brands: closely with our colleagues at OgilvyOne to Dove, Rexona, and Signal. offer Unilever brands effective experiential The combined team of OgilvyOne Dubai and digital marketing services across all and Geometry Global Dubai will lead the touch-points”. brands’ 2016 digital plans, developing their “The OgilvyOne MENA team showed a strategies and content, as well as executing great understanding of our brand and cul- Qalaa Holdings is platinum sponsor of their campaigns across all digital and on ture. We were impressed by their clear ground channels. Following the appoint- strategy and creative ideas developed for COMESA’s Africa 2016 Investment Forum ment, Nabil Moutran, Regional Director of the three brands’ 2016 digital activities,” OgilvyOne MENA commented: “Ogilvy affirmed Sabeen Fazli, Marketing Director CAIRO: Qalaa Holdings (CCAP.CA on the Chairman of Qalaa Holdings. “However, the African continent. These include ener- transport of goods and reduce the cost enjoys a longstanding relationship with at Unilever Gulf. “We are very excited to Egyptian Exchange), an African leader in this growth will be conditional upon the gy deregulation, demand for infrastruc- intra-regional trade creating global export Unilever around the world. For us to have align the Unilever-Ogilvy global partner- energy and infrastructure, announced continent’s ability to pool the global capi- ture, population growth, and the favorable hubs within the region. the opportunity to further build on that ship in the Gulf region. Together, Unilever today its participation in the Africa 2016 tal and expertise required to maximize economics of exporting,” said KarimSadek, RVR is Qalaa Holdings’ primary invest- partnership on brands such as Dove, and Ogilvy have produced some iconic Rexona, and Signal is a tremendous campaigns and we aim to replicate the Investment Forum, which will be held in efficiency and achieve sustainable and Qalaa Holdings Managing Director and ment in the African rail transport sector achievement and honor”. same success in the Gulf”. Sharm El-Sheikh on 20-21 February under impactful growth that will advance Africa’s Head of Transportation and Logistics with a 25-year concession to operate the OgilvyOne leverages ideas, knowledge, Embracing a cohesive account manage- the patronage of President Abdelfattah El- competitiveness on the global economic investments including railway operations Kenya-Uganda railway. Since the start of data, content and technology to deliver ment approach to ensure a consistent view Sisi. arena.” in Kenya and Uganda through RVR and the USD 287 million capital investment Customer Engagement solutions that help of Unilever’s 3 brands within the two agen- The event will bring together govern- “Africa has a clear US$ 93 billion annual river transport investments in Egypt and and turnaround program that began in its clients grow their businesses and cies, OgilvyOne and Geometry Global built ment officials, private sector leaders and deficit in infrastructure spending and South Sudan under the umbrella of Nile January 2012, RVR has invested in modern strengthen relationships with their cus- a consolidated team running by one other stakeholders from the COMESA that’s a massive opportunity by any count. Logistics. rail operating technology, rebuilding infra- tomers. With this in mind, the agency account structure with a single point of region who will collaborate to create a uni- With the continent set to become home “Ongoing collaboration and aligned structure, expanding haulage capacity brings the finest talents from specialized contact. Bringing together planning and fied visionbased on their collective experi- to the world’s largest working-age popula- vision on the economic front is integral to and developing modern rail operating skills into one team to give its clients creative talents will enable the team to ence ahead of the establishment of the tion within a few decades, there’s never achieving sustainable development in skills in the company’s 2,000 strong work- options that evolve with their business deliver greater value to the business as well Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA). been a better time to invest in Africa, Africa. The lack of efficient modes of trans- force. The time that it takes to move a con- needs. This approach helps engaging as efficient response to the client’s needs. “African markets continue to offer which stands today as a 1 billion-strong port is one of the major hurdles that stand tainer by rail from Mombasa to Kampala OgilvyOne clients in an effective manner “It was a long yet very rewarding experi- unique investment opportunities. Despite consumer market and home to seven out in the way of growing intra-regional trade has been reduced by more than half and while also developing solid integrated solu- ence working with Sabeen and her team in the challenges, Africa has unmatched fun- of the world’s 10 fastest growing volumes. Government efforts to coordi- trains are running on time for the first time tions. bringing back Unilever under our umbrella. damentals and remarkable potential for economies,” said Heikal. nate and upgrade cross-border regulatory in decades. RVR has also overhauled more From his side, Nick Walsh, General We are looking forward to revolutionizing growth that is commensurate with the “In each of the industries in which we frameworks must go hand in hand with than half of its fleet of locomotives and Manager of Geometry Global in the UAE the brand’s digital presence through cutting- aspirations of its young, growing popula- invest, we seek to address a specific value private sector investment to build new purchased 20 additional locomotives in said: “We are excited to continue working edge campaigns and help to support their tion,” said Ahmed Heikal, Founder and proposition that will help drive growth on infrastructure that would facilitate the addition to hundreds of new wagons. on Unilever, and thanks to the collaborative business growth,” concluded Nabil Moutran. TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 TECHNOLOGY EMC announces graduate project competition for MEA, Turkey

DUBAI: EMC Middle East yesterday over 65 projects from 272 participating stu- ty, significance and expected impact. the region. The program offers unique, courses offered as part of the EMC announced the successful initiation of the dents from across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Winners of the EMC Graduate Project “open” curriculum-based education that is Academic Alliance Program on topics Annual EMC Graduate Project Competition Egypt, Morocco and Kenya. An astounding Competition will be announced on the 1st aimed at helping students bridge the gap including virtualization, cloud computing, for Middle East and Africa. Titled “Envision 40% of these entries were submitted by of September, 2016 and will stand a chance between what they are taught in universi- big data analytics, information storage and the Future” and sponsored by the EMC’s young women from across these countries. to win financial exciting prizes. ties and the skills needed to succeed in the management, and data protection. The Egyptian Centre of Excellence (COE), the Now in the semi-final stage, 30 projects The competition is sponsored by the steadily evolving IT industry. courses based on truly “open” curriculum competition is being judged by a panel of have been shortlisted based on project EMC’s Egyptian Centre of Excellence (COE), As enterprises across the region contin- focuses on concepts and principles applica- 10 esteemed industry leaders and acade- abstract submissions that were created which continues to focus investments in ue to invest in third platform technologies ble to any vendor environment, enabling micians from across the globe. The compe- using only Open Source tools in areas relat- Universities’ program, community activities, such as cloud, social, mobile and big data students to develop highly marketable tition which was open to senior undergrad- ed to cloud and social networking apps, innovation and joint-research in a bid to to drive competitive differentiation and knowledge and skills demanded by today’s uate students from universities in Turkey, multi-clouds and hybrid cloud, software build and leverage a regional talent pool. enhance service delivery, the EMC evolving IT industry. Middle East and Africa enrolled in the EMC defined data center and networks, technol- Through this exercise the Egypt COE also Academic Alliance is a first of its kind indus- In 2015, 1000 students have earned the Academic Alliance program is aimed at ogy for big data apps and domain specific will identify and recruit aspiring profession- try- academia partnership that is designed prestigious EMC Academic Associate certifi- sparking innovation and creativity in IT big data applications. als as part of its growth plan to make more to help students acquire the education and cation demonstrating their proficiency to education. Shortlisted candidates will now move significant regional impact. practical skills required to manage and potential employers, and aiding their The EMC Graduate Project Competition into the next phase of the competition The announcement aligns with the rap- operate complex third platform driven progress to more advanced technology edu- was divided into five stages, kicking off with guidance from professors to put id expansion of the EMC Academic Alliance infrastructure. cation courses and certifications from EMC- with project abstract submission on the together competitive projects which will Program that has seen EMC partner with Over the last three years, over 5000 stu- all designed to help fill the current shortage 15th of October and has since witnessed be evaluated based on relevance, originali- over 170 leading universities from across dents across the region have availed of the of skilled workers in the IT industry. Drones becoming ‘real’ threat to commercial aviation: IATA Industry group calls for regulations

SINGAPORE: Civilian drones are increasingly becoming a “real and growing threat” to the safety of commercial aviation, industry group IATA warned yesterday, calling for regulations to be put in place before any serious accidents occur. Tony Tyler, director-general of the International Air Transport Association, said the threat posed by unmanned aerial vehicles is still evolving as people are only starting to discover the many potential, non-military applications of the technology. “I am as excited as you are about the CHAPEL HILL: A toddler participates in a speech perception experiment in a labora- prospect of having pizza delivered by a drone,” tory at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC. The toddler was condi- he said at an aviation conference in Singapore tioned to put a block in the bucket whenever she heard the “target” word. — AP on the eve of the Singapore Airshow. “They are here to stay. But we cannot allow them to be a New research finds noise hindrance or safety threat to commercial avia- tion,” he told industry executives and air trans- port officials. harder on kids than adults “We need a sensible approach to regulation WASHINGTON: From the cacophony of spend a long time in an incubator, their and a pragmatic method of enforcement for day care to the buzz of TV and electronic brains get used to the constant “white those who disregard rules and regulations and toys, noise is more distracting to a child’s noise” of the machine’s fan - different from put others in danger,” he added. As the use of brain than an adult’s, and new research a full-term baby who develops hearing drones expand from military to commercial and even recreational purposes, experts fear that shows it can hinder how youngsters learn. mom’s voice in the womb and thus is wired SINGAPORE: Tony Tyler, director general and CEO of the International Air Transport these radio-controlled flying devices, if not regu- In fact, one of the worst offenders when a to pay more attention to voices, said Dr. Association (IATA), speaks at the Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit in Singapore lated, could one day collide with a commercial tot’s trying to listen is other voices bab- Amir Lahav of Harvard Medical School. He yesterday. — AFP bling in the background, researchers said had mothers of preemies record them- aircraft with dire consequences. told AFP at the conference. “There’s going to be Thirty-six percent of these were considered as Saturday at a meeting of the American selves singing lullabies or reading stories, “The issue is real. We have plenty of pilot an increase in vehicles across the whole scope “close encounters”, it said. “We found that over Association for the Advancement of and filtered them along with the sound of reports of drones where they were not expected, and range from small to medium size to the larg- 90 percent of all incidents occurred above 400 Science. mom’s heartbeat into the incubator three particularly at low altitudes around airports... er unmanned vehicles.” feet, the maximum altitude at which drones are “What a child hears in a noisy environ- times a day when she wasn’t otherwise vis- There is no denying that there is a real and grow- allowed to fly,” said the report posted on the cen- ment is not what an adult hears,” said Dr. iting. The brain’s auditory cortex became ing threat to the safety of civilian aircraft (com- ‘Close encounters’ tre’s website. In 28 of the incidents, the commer- Lori Leibold of Boys Town National more developed in babies given that extra ing from drones),” said Tyler. IATA’s primary concern are drones flying at cial pilot had to manoeuvre to avoid collision Research Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. womb-like exposure compared with pre- Rob Eagles, an expert on drones in IATA, said low altitudes near airports which could threaten with a drone, it said. Of the 191 states within the That’s a Catch-22 in our increasingly emies with typical incubator care, Lahav the industry group did not have figures on the planes that are taking off or landing, Eagles said. International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), noisy lives because “young children learn found. Moreover, when those babies were number of drones in operation worldwide but Aviation regulators also want to make sure 63 so far have regulations already in place for language from hearing it,” said Dr. Rochelle big enough to leave the hospital, they paid anecdotal evidence showed they were mush- that the radio spectrum used to control the drones, Eagles said. Nine states have pending Newman of the University of Maryland. more attention to speech, he said. rooming. When the US Federal Aviation drones does not interfere with air traffic control regulations, while five have banned their use, he “They have a greater need for understand- “Exposure to noises and sounds very ear- Administration ordered a registration of drones systems, he said. The Center for the Study of said. “But there’s not a consistency across the ing speech around them but at the same ly in life will spill over to affect how our brain weighing up to 55 pounds (25 kilograms) last Drones at New York-based Bard College said in a regulations,” he said, adding IATA aims to help time they’re less equipped to deal with it.” is going to function,” Lahav said. Noise also is year, 300,000 were registered within just the first report that it recorded 921 incidents involving harmonize global rules. “There is an urgency It’s not their ability to hear. For healthy a special challenge for children with hearing month in December, he said. While 55-pound drones and manned aircraft in US airspace associated with it because it’s such a fast-mov- children, the auditory system is pretty well loss, who may need technology beyond drones are considered small, “this just gives you between December 2013 and September 2015. ing industry,” said Eagles. — AFP developed by a few months of age. standard hearing aids to cope, Leibold said, an indicator of the number of vehicles,” Eagles Consider how hard it is to carry on a con- describing special receivers that can trans- versation in a noisy restaurant. Researchers mit a teacher’s voice directly to the ear so it’s simulated that background in a series of not lost in classmates’ chatter. The research 1930s electricity co-ops experiments by playing recordings of peo- has implications for classroom design, too, ple reading and talking while testing how Leibold added, as the type of flooring or easily children detected words they knew, ceiling height can either soften kids’ natural such as “playground,” when a new voice noise or bounce it around. take Internet initiative broke through the hubbub, or how easily But learning starts at home, and they learned new words. University of Maryland child language spe- DENVER: When sisters Caroline Clark and Dianne of 25 Mbps for downloads and 3 Mbps for uploads, “We have been around the state, we have heard the The youngest children could recognize cialist Nan Bernstein Ratner often has par- Rissman set up their quilt shop in the house on their compared to 4 percent in urban areas. frustration,” he said. Making the math work despite one person’s speech amid multiple talkers, ents ask if they should stimulate a tot’s family farm in Iowa 2004, vendors they would call The numbers are similar in Colorado, according to the challenges is a concern for the 850 electricity but only at relatively soft noise levels, environment with interactive toys and edu- about fabric or thread would helpfully tell them it Brian Shepherd, who manages the broadband pro- cooperatives across the country who are members of Newman said. Even the background noise cational TV. “We tend to think bustling envi- would be easier to order online. gram of the state Office of Internet Technology. the National Rural Telecommunications Cooperative, during relatively quiet day care story time ronments and creating background noise is “And we’d say, ‘Yeah, it would, if we could get on Shepherd shared a story he heard from Delta, a its CEO Tim Bryan said. can be enough for tots to miss parts of stimulating for kids,” she said. But, she said, the Internet,’” Clark said and laughed. She remem- town of just under 9,000 that is 300 miles west of Bryan said numbers were hard to pin down, but what’s read, she said. It’s not just a concern “what’s stimulating on the part of the par- bered when it could take an hour to download a Web Denver, of farm kids bringing homework to the library that he believed about 10 percent of his electricity for toddlers and preschoolers. The ability to ent may not be for the child.” page using their old dial-up connection. Or, once they parking lot so they can do online research. members were providing broadband service to con- understand and process speech against switched to satellite, waiting until the late-night peri- They log onto the wireless network the librarian sumers. In Colorado, Arnold said the state wanted to competing background noise doesn’t Among the tips: od when service was cheaper to upload photos onto thoughtfully left running when she closed up. Fiona provide tax and other incentives to encourage the pri- their own site. Arnold, the director of the state’s Office of Economic vate sector to move into hard-to-reach areas of mature until adolescence, Leibold said. Don’t leave the TV, radio and other elec- Last fall, they signed up for a new broadband serv- Development and Trade, said policy makers are con- Colorado. As a measure of citizens’ frustrations, she cit- Nor is the challenge just to tune out the tronics on in the background. It’s not clear ice from their Allamakee-Clayton Electric Cooperative, cerned that the digital disconnect is increasing the ed not only rural utility cooperatives’ efforts, but elec- background buzz. Brief sudden noises - whether soft music is distracting, but lyrics which serves a region with a population so scattered it “divide between haves and have nots, between rural tions last November in which voters in 43 rural and someone coughs, a car horn blares - can might be, Ratner said. has just four customers per mile of electric line. and urban.” Broadband companies that answer to mountain Colorado communities called on their lead- drown out part of a word or sentence. An * Speak clearly and make eye contact. Last year, their Forest Mills Quilt Shop shipped kits shareholders say scattered populations and difficult ers to enter the broadband business. Colorado is one adult’s experienced brain automatically * Especially in noise, make sure tots see and materials to 27 states and Canada. access make business unprofitable in much of rural of 19 states with laws aimed at preventing govern- substitutes a logical choice, often well your face. They can pick up on mouth “And that’s all done through the Internet,” Clark America. “Distance, density and terrain are always fac- ments from competing with telecommunications enough that the person doesn’t notice, movements, Newman said. said. Cooperatives that have been bringing electricity tors,” said Mark Soltes, assistant vice president for pub- companies by providing Internet access. Here, the Newman said. * If the child doesn’t understand, try to rural America since the 1930s are getting into the lic policy and government affairs for CenturyLink, the restrictions can be overturned by voters on a munici- “Young children don’t do this. Their again with simpler words. broadband business, now that it’s communication and telecommunications firm which provides internet pality-by-municipality basis. brain doesn’t fill in the gaps,” she said. * If a child’s having school behavior information that power the economy. service in Colorado. The 43 measures on November ballots were the Children who were born prematurely may problems, make sure being unable to hear Allamakee-Clayton cooperative general manager most since the Colorado law was passed in 2005. have an additional risk. When preemies in class isn’t the problem. — AP Paul Foxwell said high speed Internet connections Broadband projects Better connectivity can have its downside. The Iowa could spur development and stem the flow of young Last year, CenturyLink got an FCC grant of just over quilting entrepreneur was responding to an order on people to the cities. His cooperative got a $1.4 million $500 million to use for rural broadband projects in 33 Thanksgiving and wondering who would be shopping Google ‘Project Loon’ grant under a 2014 federal program to build infra- states. Similar grants have been made to other major on a holiday. Then she realized the customer was in structure that includes wireless stations and repeaters, carriers. Soltes said talking to potential customers has Canada. “It is good to be occasionally unplugged from and the Forest Mills Quilt Shop is among its first sever- been part of preparing for the project in Colorado. work,” Clark said. — AP balloon enters Sri Lanka al hundred fixed wireless subscribers. “Rural America was being left in the dark with the extension of elec- for Internet tests tricity outside the cities,” said Jasen Bronec, CEO of the Delta-Montrose Electric Association. COLOMBO: Google’s balloon-powered 10 percent of the joint venture would be The group last year decided to offer broadband in high-speed Internet service known as offered to existing telephone service response to frustrations on farms, ranches and small “Project Loon” began its first tests in Sri providers on the island. towns that being unconnected hurts business, ham- Lanka yesterday ahead of a planned joint It promises to extend coverage and pers access to health care and leaves students behind. venture with Colombo, the country’s top cheaper rates for data services. Service Farmers in central Missouri were stuffing notes IT official said. One of three balloons that providers will be able to access higher into their electric bills asking whether the 25,000- will be used in the trials entered Sri speeds and improve the quality of their member Co-Mo could do anything to help with Lankan airspace yesterday, the existing service once the balloon project broadband, the cooperative’s General Manager Ken Information and Communication is up and running. The balloons, once in Johnson said. Co-Mo started building its broadband Technology Agency chief Muhunthan the stratosphere, will be twice as high as network in 2013 and now has 11,000 subscribers. Canagey said. commercial airliners and barely visible to Ryan Newlon got his Co-Mo connection just in “The first balloon entered our airspace the naked eye. The balloons will have a time, before a Missouri National Guard deployment to this morning. It was launched from South lifespan of about 180 days, but can be Kosovo in 2014. It meant he was able to Skype with America.” Canagey told AFP. “It is current- recycled, according to Sri Lankan officials his children, then ages 4, 6 and 9. ly over southern Sri Lanka.” He said a involved in the venture. Without it, he would have been largely limited to a Google team was expected later this Official figures show there are 3.3 mil- much more old-fashioned way of staying part of his week to test flight controls, spectrum lion mobile Internet connections and children’s lives during the nine months he was in efficiency and other technical matters. 630,000 fixed line Internet subscribers Kosovo. “The days of writing letters and waiting for The government announced earlier among Sri Lanka’s more than 20 million them to arrive, a lot of people think those days are this month it would take a 25 percent population. gone. But in rural America, they’re not,” he said. stake in a joint venture with Google to Sri Lanka became the first country in Mike Keyser, CEO of a Virginia co-op that will be deliver a high-speed Internet service South Asia to introduce mobile phones providing broadband within a year and a half, is con- vinced it is “up to the electric cooperatives to step up powered by helium-filled balloons. in 1989 and the first to roll out a 3G and provide. If they don’t, then the customers won’t Sri Lanka is not investing any capital, network in 2004. It was also the first in get it.” The Federal Communications Commission esti- but will take the stake in return for allo- the region to unveil a 4G network two mates 39 percent of America’s rural population is with- A Mexican worker assembles electric components for planes in one of the five Labinal Power cating spectrum for the project. A further years ago. — AFP out access to fixed broadband at a benchmark speed Systems factories of the Safran group in Chihuahua, northern Mexico. —AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 HEALTH & SCIENCE Mystery brain disorder robs patients of their words WASHINGTON: A mysterious brain disor- reach neurologists who realize they aren’t ing effects, she cautioned. Until there’s der can be confused with early repeating questions or forgetting instruc- better medical treatment, Voogt, the Alzheimer’s disease although it isn’t rob- tions that the diagnosis emerges. Virginia patient, illustrates how assistive bing patients of their memories but of communication devices can help the words to talk about them. It’s called Nobody’s talking to them patients’ quality of life. Now 66, Voogt primary progressive aphasia, and “Nobody’s talking to them, nobody’s was diagnosed 10 years ago, with a form researchers said Sunday they’re finding involving them. It’s very sad,” said Dr of PPA that makes him unable to say better ways to diagnose the little-known Margaret Rogers of the American Speech- words even though he can understand syndrome. That will help people whose Language-Hearing Association. Yet for and type them via email, text or his assis- thoughts are lucid but who are verbally many, “they can handle their own tive device. locked in to get the right kind of care. “I’m finances, they can drive, they can appreci- He owns a brain-injury rehabilitation using a speech device to talk to you,” ate music. There’s a lot that still works for center, and knew how to track down a Robert Voogt of Virginia Beach, Virginia, them.” Speech and language are hugely specialist for diagnosis when he first had said by playing a recording from a phone- complex. Just to speak requires activating trouble retrieving words. sized assistive device at a meeting of the 100 muscles between the lungs and lips Sunday, Voogt patiently answered American Association for the to produce at least 14 distinct sounds per Hillis’ questions by typing into a device Advancement of Science. “I have trouble second, said Dr Joseph Duffy of the Mayo called the MiniTalk, or calling up verbal speaking, but I can understand you.” Clinic. Stroke or brain injury patients phrases he’d pre-programmed into it. Even many doctors know little about often have trouble making sounds or Asked to say “dog,” Voogt forced out only this rare kind of aphasia, abbreviated PPA, retrieving words. PPA occurs for a differ- a garble. But asked what cowboys ride, but raising awareness is key to improve ent reason, because the brain regions he typed horses and the device “said” the care - and because a new study is under- that control language become diseased WASHINGTON: Robert Voogt uses the communication device MiniTalk to answer word. His form of PPA also impacts gram- way to try to slow the disease by electri- and degenerate, resulting in communica- questions during a news conference in Washington. Voogt cannot speak because mar so that he has difficulty forming full cally stimulating the affected brain tion difficulties that may mimic broader he suffers from primary progressive aphasia, a brain disorder sometimes con- sentences, Hillis said. region. PPA wasn’t identified as a separate dementia. fused with Alzheimer’s. — AP Asked to write that’s “it’s a cold day disorder until the 1980s, and while spe- Special MRI scans can tell the differ- wiring involved as active as possible. about two months after receiving the in Washington,” Voogt typed a minute cialists estimate thousands of Americans ence, Hillis said. They also can help identi- Now, Hillis’ team is testing if a kind of electrical stimulation than when they or two and the device’s recorder emit- may have it, there’s no good count. fy whose aphasia will worsen faster, and brain stimulation that sends electrical sig- received sham zaps with their regular ted “cold Washington DC.” Voogt typed Families may not even seek care because who has a subtype that can morph to nals through the skull can rev up the therapy, Hillis reported Sunday. They that he started relying on the device in they assume a loved one’s increasingly become Alzheimer’s-like, where they effects of that treatment. were more able to name objects they 2012, but lives independently and trav- garbled attempts to communicate are eventually do lose memory and the abili- hadn’t practiced, and brain scans els internationally. But asked how diffi- because of age-related dementia, said Dr ty to understand language. Standard lan- Medical treatment showed better connectivity in the affect- cult the loss of language is to live with, Argye Elizabeth Hillis of Johns Hopkins guage therapy has patients match pic- In the first 19 patients tested, people ed region. But it will take far more study he typed out a pretty bad rating - 70 University. Often, it’s when those people tures to the correct word, to keep the did better retrieving the right words for to prove if the treatment produces last- percent. — AP Students turn brainpower toward suicide prevention MIT looking for their own solutions

CAMBRIDGE: After seven suicides in two years, $50,000 in grants to support campus projects suicides since 2014, according to reports from students at the Massachusetts Institute of meant to improve mental health. They say the the school’s student newspaper. Technology are looking for their own solutions new work is a reflection of MIT’s culture, marked Sleep is for the Strong to prevent more deaths. The school unveiled a by a drive to solve problems. But students said Some students and alumni say that MIT’s cul- sweeping plan to bolster mental health last fall, they’re also meeting a demand for services that ture pushes students to extremes, sometimes at adding staff psychologists and expanding coun- were missing on the campus of 11,000 students. the expense of a social life or emotional health. seling hours, among other measures. But stu- “If we really solved the problem, we wouldn’t be “It’s heroic and glorified to push oneself to the dents have added their own ingenuity in recent running into this same cycle of mental illness point of our boundaries, of our physical or bodily months, starting a wave of grassroots projects that we’ve been seeing,” said Nikhil Buduma, needs,” said Sahar Hakim-Hashemi, a 2013 gradu- intended to defuse the stress of campus life who graduated last year and founded Lean On ate who’s filming a documentary called “Sleep is before it leads to a crisis. One group of students Me with two current students. The hotline, he for the Strong,” exploring mental health at MIT launched a texting hotline called Lean On Me added, lets students get help anonymously and and ways to improve it. “It’s like it shows how this month, letting students chat anonymously avoid stigmas tied to mental illness. hardcore and strong someone is.” And while stu- with trained student volunteers about anything Across the country, experts say, college stu- dents come with big ambitions, MIT officials said, that’s troubling them. Other students plan to dents are playing a bigger role in suicide preven- they don’t always have the skills to cope with the BRUGELETTE: Female giant Panda Hao Hao is pictured at Pairi Daiza animal park in install artificial light boxes on campus, meant to tion. And more often, schools welcome that kind pressure. “We recognize that a lot of kids coming Brugelette. Two Chinese experts have been called in to the animal park in Belgium to treat depression that can take hold during drea- of help. “We have found time and again that stu- in today are not as well-prepared for these chal- help two giant pandas Haoi Hao and Xing Hui reproduce. — AFP ry months. dents listen to students before they listen to lenges,” said Rosalind Picard, a professor of media By her count, sophomore Izzy Lloyd has anyone else,” said Nance Roy, clinical director at arts and sciences who leads the school’s cam- Unbear-lievable: doubts the handed out more than 4,000 specially made the Jed Foundation, a nonprofit group based in paign to support mental-health projects. wristbands that say TMAYD. It’s short for “tell me New York that works to prevent suicide among Picard says the new work on campus is a turning over Myanmar ‘red panda’ about your day,” a message that aims to get stu- college students. “These issues can no longer point. Beyond treating mental illness, she said, dents talking with one another. Lloyd started the just fall to the counseling center.” there’s a new focus on preventing problems. YANGON: Doubts were cast yesterday over found in Myanmar,” an official from the project last year after two of her freshman class- Roy said there’s no evidence that elite schools Meanwhile, some of the new student projects have a poignant tale of a rescued panda donat- forestry department’s wildlife conservation mates took their own lives in the same week. “It’s have disproportionately high suicide rates. But a begun drawing interest elsewhere. Six other ed to a Mandalay zoo, after an expert said a section told AFP requesting anonymity. suicide prevention by community building,” said national study suggests that MIT’s rate was schools have bought Lloyd’s TMAYD wristbands for photo in Myanmar’s state media showed a Pandas are also not found in Shan state, Lloyd, 19. “We’re showing people who may feel above average last year. The average suicide rate their students, and dozens more have said they’re creature that more closely resembled a he said. “We have red pandas in the north- like they have nothing left that they have a among college students was seven for every interested. The team behind Lean On Me has black bear. The “Himalayan panda”-a term ern part of the country... but I have no idea world of people who do care about them.” Other 100,000 students between 2004 and 2009, received inquiries about the texting hotline from sometimes used for the small copper- how many of them there are,” he said. projects take a lighter tone, like the new MIT according to research from the University of outside MIT, and they hope to bring it to other furred red panda-was found in a remote Scepticism also swiftly swirled on social Puppy Lab that will bring therapy dogs to cam- Rochester. Three MIT students took their lives schools. “It’s not a product built only for MIT stu- area of eastern Shan state near the border media. According to the International pus this semester. last year, translating to almost 27 for every dents,” Buduma said. “Our goal is really just to help with Thailand, according to the state- Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Campus officials recently awarded almost 100,000. There have been at least seven student people feel like they belong to a community.” — AP backed Global New Light of Myanmar. red list of threatened species, the red pan- The “little panda was donated to the da is only found in northern Kachin state Mandalay Yadanaporn Zoological Garden”, near the Chinese border. US House backs bill to the report said citing local officials and the The panda confusion has revived mem- forestry department. But a photograph ories of mistaken animal identity else- accompanying the article showed a crea- where. In 2013, a Chinese zoo tired to pass ture that was black from snout to paws. off a large Tibetan Mastiff as an “African ease calorie labeling “Looking at the news photo... it’s not a pan- lion”-but were rumbled when the hairy dog da. It’s just a Himalayan bear commonly started barking. — AFP WASHINGTON: Fast-food chains would get some relief from government rules on listing calories for things like bacon-wrapped deep dish pizza or dou- Blood-boosters ‘may give’ tiny ble cheeseburgers under legislation the House approved on Friday. The vote was 266-144. The leg- preemies developmental edge islation now heads to the Senate, where its fate is CHICAGO: Two blood-building drugs years, but treatment for medical prob- uncertain. The Obama administration said it oppos- injected soon after birth may give tiny lems and developmental delays linked es the measure though it stopped short of threat- preemies a lasting long-term edge, with prematurity has not kept pace, ening a presidential veto boosting brain development and IQ by Schreiber said. Republicans say the calorie labeling rules age 4, a first-of-its-kind study found. The He was not involved in the study. He scheduled to go into effect this year are too bur- study was small but the implications are said larger studies including more densome, and they have sought to ease the big if larger, longer studies prove the diverse patient populations are needed requirements and lessen potential financial penal- drugs help even the playing field for to determine if the drugs can help a ties for businesses that have to comply. Many these at-risk children, the researchers broader range of preemies. The study restaurants and other food retail outlets, such as and other experts say. Babies who got involved 53 children, most white or grocery stores, will have to post the calorie labels the medicine scored much better by age Hispanic, born more than a month pre- by December. The FDA rules will require restau- The sandwich board at a Panera store with the calorie count for each item is seen in Brookline, 4 on measures of intelligence, language mature and weighing less than 3 pounds rants and other establishments that sell prepared Mass. The House has approved legislation to give supermarkets, fast-food chains and other and memory than preemies who didn’t at hospitals in New Mexico, Utah and foods and have 20 or more locations to post the food establishments some relief from government calorie labeling rules. — AP get it. The medicine group’s scores on an Colorado. Two dozen normal-weight calorie content of food “clearly and conspicuously” important behavior measure were just as children were also included. on their menus, menu boards and displays. That would narrow labeling requirements for supermar- way they post calories, and restaurants and retailers good as a control group of 4-year-olds Results were published Monday in includes prepared foods at grocery and conven- kets, which have complained that the rules are con- could determine what constitutes a serving size, in born on time at a normal weight. Pediatrics. Shortly after birth the pre- ience stores and in movie theaters, bakeries, coffee fusing and broad, by allowing stores to use a menu some cases. In addition, the bill seeks to ensure that The results are “super exciting,” said emies were randomly assigned to shops, pizza delivery stores and amusement parks. or menu board in a prepared-foods area instead of establishments aren’t punished for mislabeling due Dr. Robin Ohls, the lead author and a receive injections of either erythro- The bill by Rep Cathy McMorris Rodgers, R- putting labels on individual items. to inadvertent human error. The menu labeling pediatrics professor at the University of poeitin (EPO), three times weekly; darbe- Wash., would leave the Food and Drug It would also allow restaurants like pizza chains rules were first required by Congress in 2010, but New Mexico. She said it’s the first evi- poetin once a week for several weeks; or Administration rules requiring the labeling in place that receive most of their orders remotely to post FDA took several years to write them as the super- dence of long-term benefits of the drugs no treatment. but make it easier for some businesses to comply. calories online instead of at the retail location. Pizza markets, convenience stores and pizza companies when compared to no blood-boosting The drugs build red blood cells and “This bill at its very core is about flexibility,” restaurants would also have more flexibility in the aggressively lobbied against them. — AP treatment. Even though the treated are approved to treat anemia caused by McMorris Rodgers said during House debate. youngsters didn’t do as well as the nor- cancer treatment or resulting from other Republican Rep Fred Upton, whose state of mal-weight group on most measures, conditions. Preemies lack the ability to Michigan is home to Domino’s Pizza, said it made Sea Shepherd struggling to their scores were impressive and suggest make new red blood cells and often no sense to require that calories be posted on a greater brain development than the oth- need frequent blood transfusions to menu board at the fast-food chain’s locations when find Japanese whaling fleet er preemies, Ohls said. replace blood taken for lab tests. The some 90 percent of orders are placed online. They scored about 12 points higher drugs are now sometimes used to try to Democrats argued that people want more infor- SYDNEY: Environmental activist group Sea expanded their area of illegal operations in the on average on IQ tests than the untreat- reduce their need for transfusions, in mation, not less, when deciding what to eat. Rep Shepherd admitted yesterday it was struggling to Southern Ocean. This makes finding them very dif- ed kids but about 10 points lower than doses similar to the ones studied. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill, who said she fought in the find Japanese whaling vessels in the vast Southern ficult,” said Sea Shepherd founder Paul Watson. the normal-weight group. On tests The drugs can increase endurance by 1970s to get expiration dates on food, said the Ocean and urged the Australian government to Australia, which has led global efforts to persuade measuring memory and impulsive boosting oxygen levels in the blood, and calorie labeling rules would help consumers make help. Its flagship Steve Irwin left Western Australia Japan to halt whaling, has previously floated the behavior, the treated kids fared as well have been implicated in some sports better decisions. for the remote area on January 18 to chase and idea of sending a customs vessel to monitor the as those born at normal weight. Here’s doping scandals. She said it is critical at a time when more than disrupt the annual hunt, which resumed in hunt in the Southern Ocean, but it appears not to how those differences would show up in Dr Sandra Juul, a University of 70 million Americans are obese, at a cost estimated December after a one-year pause despite a world- have followed through. a preschool setting: The untreated group Washington pediatrics professor, is lead- to be $147 billion a year. Schakowsky said wide moratorium and widespread condemnation. “Sea Shepherd was expecting that Australia or would be the kids who struggle a little in ing a larger multi-center study of both California, Vermont, New York City and some small- After a decade of harassment by Sea Shepherd, New Zealand would uphold their obligations as class, while the those who got the medi- drugs in preemies and said it’s too soon er cities and towns have already implemented the Japan was forced to abandon its 2014-15 hunt responsible members of the International Whaling cines would do OK but not as well as to recommend the medicines for treat- rules. “This unnecessary legislation would deny after the International Court of Justice said the Commission, to send a ship to intercept the those born at a normal weight, said Dr. ing developmental delays. Still, since consumers critical information about the food they expedition was a commercial activity masquerad- Japanese whaling fleet,” said Watson. “This does Michael Schreiber, a prematurity expert almost half of infants born extremely eat,” she said. ing as research. not seem to be something Australia or New at the University of Chicago’s Comer early have significant developmental The administration, in a statement this week, Tokyo maintains it is trying to prove the whale Zealand are willing to do.” He called on Canberra Children’s Hospital. problems, any treatment that could said the bill “would reduce consumers’ access to population is large enough to sustain a return to to provide Sea Shepherd with the exact coordi- Survival of extremely tiny preemies improve their lives “is incredibly impor- nutrition information and likely create consumer commercial hunting, and says it has to kill the nates of the whaling fleet “so that Sea Shepherd has improved dramatically in the past 50 tant,” Juul said. — AP confusion by introducing a great deal of variability mammals to carry out its “scientific research” prop- can do the job that Australia and New Zealand into how calories are declared.” The legislation erly. “The Japanese whaling fleet has greatly refuse to do”. — AFP TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 HEALTH & SCIENCE

LAGUNA: Farmers work in a rice field near the International Rice Research Institute in Laguna, south LAGUNA: Rice bugs are seen in a paddy field at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in of Manila. Laguna, south of Manila. — AFP photos DNA rice breakthrough raises ‘green revolution’ hopes

LOS BANOS: Rice-growing techniques learned American biochemist at the Philippines-based biggest genome sequencing firm. Leaf tissue expected to become an increasingly scarce com- Prize in 1970, have since reached a plateau. through thousands of years of trial and error are International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Since from the samples, drawn mostly from IRRI’s gene modity in many parts of the world. As scientists Although the DNA breakthrough has generated about to be turbocharged with DNA technology rice was first domesticated thousands of years bank of 127,000 varieties were ground by develop the tools necessary to harness the full much optimism, IRRI scientists caution it is not a in a breakthrough hailed by scientists as a ago, farmers have improved yields through vari- McNally’s team at its laboratory in Los Banos, near advantages of the rice genome database, the magic bullet for all rice-growing problems, and potential second “green revolution”. Over the ous planting techniques. Manila’s southern outskirts, before being shipped hope is that new varieties can be developed to believe that genetically modifying is also neces- next few years farmers are expected to have For the past century breeders have isolated for sequencing. A non-profit research outfit combat all those problems. “Essentially, you will sary. They also warn that governments will still new genome sequencing technology at their traits, such as high yields and disease resistance, founded in 1960, IRRI works with governments to be able to design what properties you want in need to implement the right policies, such as in disposal, helping to offset a myriad of problems then developed them through cross breeding. develop advanced varieties of the grain. rice, in terms of the drought resistance, resist- regards to land and water use. that threaten to curtail production of the grain However, they did not know which genes con- ance to diseases, high yields, and others,” said One of the key priorities of IRRI is to pack that feeds half of humanity. Drawing on a mas- trolled which traits, leaving much of the effort to Threats to rice Russian bioanalytics expert and IRRI team mem- more nutrients into rice, transforming it into a sive bank of varieties stored in the Philippines lengthy guesswork. The latest breakthroughs in Farmers and breeders will need the new DNA ber Nickolai Alexandrov. tool to fight ailments linked to inadequate diets and state-of-the-art Chinese technology, scien- molecular genetics promise to fast-track the tools, which scientists take pains to say is not in poor countries as well as lifestyle diseases in tists recently completed the DNA sequencing of process, eliminating much of the mystery, scien- genetic modification, because of the increasing- Food revolution wealthier countries. “We’re interested to under- more than 3,000 of the world’s most significant tists involved in the project said. Better rice vari- ly stressful conditions for rice growing expected Scientists behind the project hope it will lead stand the nutritional value.... we’re looking into types of rice. eties can now be expected to be developed and in the 21st Century. While there will be many to a second “green revolution”. The first began in the enrichment of micronutrients,” Nese With the huge pool of data unlocked, rice passed on to farmers’ hands in less than three more millions to feed, there is expected to be the 1960s as the development of higher-yield- Sreenivasulu, the Indian head of the IRRI’s grain breeders will soon be able to produce higher- years, compared with 12 without the guidance less land available for planting as farms are con- ing varieties of wheat and rice was credited with quality and nutrition centre said. Nese believes yielding varieties much more quickly and under of DNA sequencing. verted for urban development, destroyed by ris- preventing massive global food shortages Type-2 diabetes, which afflicts hundreds of mil- increasingly stressful conditions, scientists Genome sequencing involves decoding DNA, ing sea levels or converted to other crops. Rice- around the world. That giant leap to producing lion of people, can be checked by breeding for involved with the project said. Other potential the hereditary material of all living cells and paddy destroying floods, drought and storms more food involved the cross-breeding of unre- particular varieties of rice which when cooked new varieties being dreamt about are ones that organisms. The process roughly compares with are also expected to worsen with climate lated varieties to produce new ones that grew will release sugar into the bloodstream more are resistant to certain pests and diseases, or solving a giant jigsaw puzzle made up of billions change. Meanwhile, pests and diseases that faster and produced higher yields, mainly by slowly. IRRI scientists are also hoping to breed types that pack more nutrients and vitamins. of microscopic pieces. A multinational team evolve to resist herbicides and pesticides will be being able to respond better to fertiliser. But the rice varieties with a higher component of zinc, “This will be a big help to strengthen food secu- undertook the four-year project with the DNA more difficult to kill. massive gains of the earlier efforts, which earnt which prevents stunting and deaths from diaro- rity for rice eaters,” said Kenneth McNally, an decoding primarily in China by BGI, the world’s And fresh water, vital for growing rice, is US geneticist Norman Borlaug the Nobel Peace hea in rice-eating Southeast Asia. — AFP Climbing HIV infection rates in the Philippines

Women, infants at risk of HIV from ‘downstream’ infections

CEBU: When Clarissa’s younger sister died, she had HIV, like children who acquire the virus through Needle exchange programs aimed at ensuring little time to dwell on her own grief. There were the mother-to-child transmission. “Mother to child drug users could access clean needles were criti- three young children left behind to think of, two of transmission is definitely an emerging problem,” cized by Philippine legislators who said such pro- them HIV positive. Together with her own children, said Genesis Samonte, head of the Department of grams promoted drug use. Citing the Dangerous there are now seven youngsters crammed in her Health HIV/AIDS surveillance unit. Of the 84 chil- Drugs Act which criminalizes the possession and tiny, crumbling shanty in Cebu in central dren who acquired HIV through mother-to-child distribution of drug paraphernalia like syringes and Philippines. Space and money are tight as they all transmission since 1990, 17 - or one fifth - were a late 1990s city order that banned the sale of depend on Clarissa’s husband who is a day laborer. reported in 2015 alone. “Judging from the number syringes without a prescription, Cebu city officials “The kids have no father or mother now. They have of pregnant women we see in the clinics who test suspended needle exchange programs in 2009. NSEZI: 13-year-old Prince Mpofu packs last year’s harvest from the irrigated gardens no one,” said the slight 31-year-old. positive, this is definitely an underreported num- Drug users had little choice but to buy from the for storage in the village of Nsezi in Matabeleland, southwestern Zimbabwe. — AFP Clarissa’s sister and her partner both died from ber,” Samonte said. black market - or share. “Around this time we began HIV-related complications traced back to injecting seeing more HIV positive pregnant women,” said Severe drought affects 49 drugs. Clarissa suspects that it was her sister’s part- HIV rates climbing Ilya Tac-an, head of the Cebu City Health ner that got her started on drugs. “Charity groups In 2015 there were a total of 30,356 recorded HIV Department HIV/STI Unit. million in southern Africa said the child who does not have HIV could be put infections in the Philippines, more than 80 percent An injecting drug user is typically male, in his up for adoption. But I couldn’t bear for them to be of which were reported since 2010. At this current 20s or 30s. Despite his high-risk behavior, he is not HARARE: As many as 49 million people in fall in southern Africa, which would result in separated. And who will make sure the two take rate, the health department predicts that the total likely to know his HIV status, making early detection southern Africa could be affected by a one of the worst droughts on record, it their medication?” said Clarissa, who did not want number of HIV infections will grow to 133,000 by of HIV among female partners difficult. “Women dis- drought that has been worsened by the added. “It is estimated that 40 million rural to give her full name. Climbing HIV infection rates in 2022. While majority of the infections cluster cover they are positive when they are offered an most severe and longest El Nino weather people and 9 million poor urban people who the Philippines are bucking the global trend of around men who have unprotected sex with men, HIV test during their pre-natal exam,” Tac-an said. pattern in 35 years, the United Nations live in drought-affected areas could be decline. Along with Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri HIV among injecting drug users is centered in Cebu “There is a missed opportunity for prevention and World Food Program (WFP) said yesterday. exposed,” the WFP said in its latest report. Lanka in the Asia-Pacific region, the Philippines saw City. In shooting galleries that dot shantytowns, a early detection because her partner did not dis- The WFP, which has already said 14 million The drought has hit much of the region, the rate of new HIV infections increase by more person can get a narcotic shot for 50 US cents and close his status or does not know it.” people face hunger in the region, said the El including the maize belt in South Africa, the than 25 percent from 2001 to 2011. use a “service needle”, a syringe that the dealer has Chamberlain Agtuca, Jr head of the Sotto HIV Nino conditions had caused the lowest continent’s most advanced economy and Increasing infections among injecting drug on rotation for anyone to use for free. Treatment Hub in Cebu, said his clinic had treated recorded rainfall between October and the top producer of the staple grain. In users combined with low condom use and high fer- Department of Health surveillance studies show 42 HIV positive pregnant women since 2010. He December since 1981. Lesotho, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe, tility rates have health experts worried about that a service needle can be used four to six times estimated that 60 percent of the women were The forecast for January to March indicat- planting delayed by two months or more has “downstream” HIV infections - when the virus before it gets too blunt out and can infect as just as housewives and partners of men with high-risk ed a high probability of below-normal rain- severely impacted maize yields. — Reuters spreads to people who are not typically at risk of many people. behavior. —Reuters WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 JTC wins EQUATE transportation haulage contract for third consecutive period

assim Transport and Stevedoring Commenting on winning the bid, Adel quality logistical services to our esteemed Company W.L.L (JTC) has been award- Kohari, Chief Executive Officer for JTC client’s local operations”. Jed a three year contract from EQUATE said, “This is an extremely important and Kohari added, “JTC has been very suc- Petrochemical Company, Kuwait’s first competitive win for JTC. We are delighted cessful in catering to the needs of the oil international joint-venture in this indus- to have reaffirmed our longstanding part- and gas industry with a number of major try, to provide haulage and local overland nership with EQUATE Petrochemical players. This contract is a testament to transportation services for their Shuaiba Company. Our commitment to excellence JTC’s approach to delivering high levels of Port operations. and quality in our service delivery and service and new and improved trans- The contract went into effect from the operational structure has once more led portation solutions coordinated by a well- 1st January, 2016 and is the third consec- to a significantly renewed partnership trained and equipped team that ensures utive similar services contract between with one of Kuwait’s petrochemical giants our customer’s needs are met and EQUATE and JTC. and we look forward to providing high exceeded.”

NBK celebrates graduation of Fourteenth batch of NBK Academy

ational Bank of Kuwait (NBK) celebrated the gradu- of the newly hired young Kuwaitis. Salah Al-Fulaij, NBK NBK Academy programs run for four months and spe- them to realize their potentials. ation of the fourteenth batch of newly hired young CEO - Kuwait, attended the ceremony along with other cially tailored to provide trainees with theoretical and Annually, NBK offers many training programs for NKuwaitis from NBK Academy. NBK Academy aims NBK officials. practical skills covering the different aspects of the employees including Shabab program, and the first of its to train and develop the professional skills of young NBK Academy is the first initiative of its kind in the banking industry. kind NBK High Fliers Program. NBK also organizes execu- Kuwaitis as part of NBK’s strategy to attract and develop private sector in Kuwait and is part of NBK’s strategy to NBK maintains its leading position as one of the coun- tive training programs in line with the bank’s commit- national human resources. attract young Kuwaitis by offering them a range of try’s largest employers in the private sector and is com- ment to developing and investing in its key resource and NBK organized a special ceremony for the graduation career and professional development opportunities. mitted to supporting Kuwaiti nationals and empowering human capital.

The Kuwaiti Positivity Group participated in National Holiday’s celebrations organized recently by the Capital Governorate.

BSK students visit Nanotechnology Conference

he British School of Kuwait’s (BSK) Year 12 Conference and Exhibition (KINCE) 2016 held at Engineering Kuwait University, who spoke about and ask the international experts about their sci- and Graduate Studies Kuwait University, and his and 13 students and teachers visited the the Regency Hotel. The students attended a lec- the applications of Nanotechnology. Students entific innovations. The Conference Chairman, associates were generous in welcoming the stu- T1st Kuwait International Nanotechnology ture by Dr Yaser Abdulraheem, College of were given the opportunity to tour the exhibition Professor Ali Bumajdad, Vice-Dean for Academic dents to this prestigious event.

ICSK Amman students achievements

tudents of ICSK Amman branch have brought laurels to the school in various competitions held in Kuwait. Master Akash Raju Cherian of Class X from Indian Community School Amman was awarded the first prize for other performing arts (Tabla) in the ‘Sparsh Talent 2016’ in Season I and II. Master Alvin Jerry of Class II C of Indian Community School Amman stood first in the Solo Junior category in IOC SArt Festival 2015 held on 15-10-2015 at ICSK Senior School, Kuwait. The Principal of ICSK Amman Rajesh Nair applauded the winners for their efforts and commendable performance. WHAT’S ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 Make Marina Hotel Kuwait your one-stop-destination for all weddings

KUWAIT: The magnificent Shaikha Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Theater and Hall of Marina Hotel Kuwait, nestled in the heart of Salmiya with a spectacular sea- side location, is your one-stop-destination for all weddings. No matter what size wedding you are planning, Marina Hotel offers couples a truly memorable wedding to suit any type of wedding festivity. Having a great layout and capacity of up to 500 persons, the Sheikha Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Theater and Hall is an ideal place for your special event. The hall unravels beauty and flexibility with its expert wedding planning team who devote their attention to every detail ensuring that your wedding will surpass all expectations. The package is further complemented with an award winning culinary team comprising of dedicated chefs who constantly explore delivering tailor made menus and bringing to the hotelís guests a wide range of exciting experiences to each event.†Wedding guests can enjoy the wide variety of scrumptious delicacies from the elaborate buffet at Shaikha Salwa Sabah Al Ahmad Theater and Hall. The memories of your wedding day will last a lifetime and Marina Hotel Kuwait will ensure that your special day is perfect. The hotel is delighted to offer guests exclusive wedding packages across the year, which include accommodation for one night in a beautiful superior room and a romantic candle-lit dinner and breakfast in the room for the bride and groom. For the wedding celebrations, a custom-made, three-tier wedding cake is offered. Such a momentous occasion that unites husband and wife must be con- ducted in a venue that can provide only the finest setting. This includes the most delightful cuisine and a magnificently decorated ballroom. With a venue that can also bring back treasured memories of lavish wedding celebrations from previous generations, todayís weddings at the Sheikha Salwa Sabah Al- Ahmad Theater and Hall are among the most extravagant and memorable weddings imaginable. Combining unparalleled excellence in service and hospitality with out- standing presentation and personal service, the hotel holds a reputation as an expert in turning your wedding celebration into a truly magnificent event. If you are looking for a beautiful wedding ceremony venue, the wedding pack- age at Marina Hotel is available all through the year. For more information, please visit our website: www.marinahotel.com

New Cafe Meem Opens at Sea View in Mahboula

he scent of freshly roasted coffee fills the Marketing at MMC Catering said: “Cafe Meem restaurant, engulfing its visitors with nos- is designed to inspire the taste buds with bold Ttalgic feelings associated with the early flavors brought to you straight from the oven, morning hours. Visitor’s first take notice of the prepared with fresh ingredients to create a most delicious kinds of breakfast dishes that homey atmosphere” decorate their tables with fresh items imported “With its new look, Cafe Meem presents a specially from Lebanon, and bakery items pre- wide variety of items, including main courses pared on demand that come to you directly and side dishes prepared freshly, in addition to from the oven. Cafe Meem presents a family varieties of items imported specially from atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Lebanon,” Sebti added. With its charming ambiance, Cafe Meem at And as Cafe Meem returns to its customers Sea View in Mahboula is the destination for with a new look, the restaurant’s management gourmet and breakfast enthusiasts who are was keen on presenting a new menu, updated drawn by varieties of fresh food and coffee interior design while adding to the highest items. The Cafe was newly opened as part of levels of innovation, quality and customer MMC Catering’s strategy to improve and service the Cafe includes. develop its restaurants in accordance with the Cafe Meem is a completely new experience fast-evolving local community, in order to that will delight any food lover, while still present a unique dining experience. remaining a go to location to relax, have a cup In this regard, Lamya Sebti, Director of of coffee, and feel at home.

The Kuwait Banks Club (KBC) hosted its annual ceremony recently to award members of the social, sports and media committees for organizing KBC activities in 2015. p32.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/16 8:23 PM Page 1

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 TV PROGRAMS

13:50 Doctor Who 04:00 Killer Kids Specials 01:00 Bangkok Airport 19:00 Complications 14:40 Casualty 05:00 Beyond Scared Straight 01:50 Valentine Warner Eats 20:00 The Night Shift 15:35 Stella 06:00 Crime Stories Scandinavia 21:00 The Night Shift 16:25 Call The Midwife 07:00 The FBI Files 02:15 Eat Street 22:00 Supergirl 01:05 Hurly Burly 17:10 Doctor Who 08:00 The FBI Files 02:40 Eat Street 23:00 The X-Files 03:10 Monkey Shines: An 18:05 Doctors 09:00 Frenemies 03:05 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By Experiment In Fear 18:35 Doctors 10:00 Crimes That Shook Britain The Sea 05:00 The Beast Of Hollow 19:10 Death In Paradise 11:00 Nightmare In Suburbia 03:55 Food Lover’s Guide To The Mountain 20:10 Unforgotten 12:00 Beyond Scared Straight Planet 06:20 Limit Up 21:00 Unforgotten 13:00 Fatal Vows 04:20 Miguel’s Feasts 07:50 Brannigan 21:50 Ripper Street 14:00 Crime Stories 04:45 Miguel’s Feasts 00:00 Lone Survivor 09:40 Breakin’ 22:45 Death In Paradise 15:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 05:10 Carnival Eats 02:15 Psycho 11:05 Cannon For Cordoba 23:40 Doctors 16:00 Frenemies 05:35 Dream Cruises 04:15 Biker Boyz 12:50 Movers And Shakers 00:45 Doctor Foster 17:00 The FBI Files 06:25 A Marriage Of Flavours 06:15 Android Cop 14:10 Beachhead 01:40 Doctor Foster 18:00 Beyond Scared Straight 06:50 Bangkok Airport 08:00 The Scorpion King 4: Quest 15:40 Charge Of The Light 02:40 Ripper Street 19:00 Crime Stories 07:40 Valentine Warner Eats For Power Brigade 03:35 Casualty 20:00 Nightmare In Suburbia Scandinavia 10:00 I Am Legend 17:45 The Crocodile Hunter: 04:30 Starlings 21:00 Crimes That Shook Britain 08:05 Eat Street 12:00 Biker Boyz Collision Course 05:15 Starlings 22:00 Frenemies 08:30 Eat Street 14:00 Dying Of The Light 06:00 Roger & Val Have Just Got 23:00 Monster In My Family 08:55 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 15:45 The Scorpion King 4: Quest In The Sea For Power 06:30 The Cafe 09:45 Food Lover’s Guide To The 17:45 Oblivion 06:55 Casualty Planet 20:00 I Am Legend 07:50 Stella 10:10 Miguel’s Feasts 22:00 Dragon Blade 08:35 Call The Midwife 10:35 Miguel’s Feasts 00:50 River Monsters (Best Of 09:30 Doctor Who 11:00 Carnival Eats Series 1-5) 10:20 Casualty 00:20 Fast N’ Loud 11:25 Dream Cruises 01:45 Swamp Brothers 11:15 Death In Paradise 01:10 Gold Rush 12:15 A Marriage Of Flavours 02:15 Swamp Brothers 12:10 Stella 02:00 Gold Divers 12:40 Bangkok Airport 02:40 Treetop Cat Rescue 12:55 Call The Midwife 02:50 Pacific Warriors 13:35 Valentine Warner Eats 00:00 Adult World 03:10 Treetop Cat Rescue 13:50 Doctor Who 03:40 Storage Hunters Scandinavia 02:00 Date Night 03:35 Tanked 14:40 Casualty 04:05 The Liquidator 14:00 Eat Street 04:00 Beethoven’s Treasure Tail 04:25 Roaring With Pride 15:35 Stella 04:30 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 14:30 Eat Street 06:00 Roommates 05:15 Gator Boys 16:25 Call The Midwife Edition 14:55 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 08:00 Chef 06:02 Treehouse Masters 17:10 Doctor Who 05:00 How It’s Made: Dream Cars The Sea 10:00 Beethoven’s Treasure Tail 06:49 Treetop Cat Rescue 18:05 Doctors 05:30 How Do They Do It? 15:50 Food Lover’s Guide To The 12:00 Space Dogs 07:13 Treetop Cat Rescue 18:35 Doctors 06:00 Flying Wild Alaska Planet 14:00 The Misadventures Of The 07:36 Swamp Brothers 19:10 Death In Paradise 06:50 Highway To Sell 16:20 Miguel’s Feasts Dunderheads 08:00 Swamp Brothers 20:10 Unforgotten 07:40 Fast N’ Loud 16:45 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 16:00 Chef 08:25 Bad Dog 21:00 Unforgotten 08:30 Storage Hunters 17:15 Street Food Around The 18:00 The Nutty Professor (1996) 09:15 Treetop Cat Rescue 21:50 Ripper Street 08:55 The Liquidator World 20:00 Mystery Men 09:45 Treetop Cat Rescue 22:45 Death In Paradise 09:20 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 17:40 Dream Cruises 22:15 Idiocracy 10:10 Treehouse Masters 23:40 Doctors Edition 18:35 A Marriage Of Flavours 11:05 Tanked 09:45 How It’s Made: Dream Cars 19:05 Charlie Luxton’s Homes By 12:00 Bad Dog 10:10 How Do They Do It? The Sea 12:55 Bondi Vet 10:35 Gold Rush 20:00 Food Lover’s Guide To The 13:50 Treetop Cat Rescue 11:25 Gold Divers Planet 14:20 Treetop Cat Rescue 12:15 Pacific Warriors 20:25 Miguel’s Feasts 14:45 Gator Boys 00:00 What’d You Miss? 13:05 Storage Hunters 20:50 David Rocco’s Dolce Vita 01:30 Sunshine On Leith 15:40 Treehouse Masters 01:00 Charlie Rose 13:30 The Liquidator 21:15 Street Food Around The 03:15 When A Man Loves A 16:35 Tanked 02:00 First Up With Angie Lau 13:55 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop World Woman 17:30 Roaring With Pride 03:00 First Up With Angie Lau Edition 21:40 Dream Cruises 05:30 Upside Down 18:25 The Primeval Forest Of 04:00 Trending Business 14:20 Flying Wild Alaska 22:30 A Marriage Of Flavours 07:30 Se Puder... Dirija! Belovezhskaya Pushcha 05:00 Trending Business 15:10 Highway To Sell 22:55 Bangkok Airport 09:00 Safe Haven 19:20 Wild Capture School 06:00 Asia Edge 16:00 Fast N’ Loud 23:45 Valentine Warner Eats 11:00 Upside Down 19:50 Wild Capture School 07:00 Bloomberg West 16:50 How It’s Made: Dream Cars Scandinavia 13:00 Dr. Strangelove 20:15 Tanked 08:00 Charlie Rose 17:15 How Do They Do It? 15:00 Black Nativity 21:10 Roaring With Pride 09:00 Countdown 17:40 The Island With Bear Grylls 17:00 Safe Haven 22:05 Treehouse Masters 10:00 Countdown 18:30 Sean Conway - Running 19:00 Low Down 23:00 Wild Capture School 10:30 On The Move Britain 21:00 Thank You For Smoking 23:30 Wild Capture School 11:00 On The Move 19:20 Ben Earl: Trick Artist 23:00 Starred Up 12:00 The Pulse 20:10 The Liquidator 13:00 Bloomberg Surveillance 20:35 Auction Hunters: Pawn Shop 14:00 Bloomberg Surveillance Edition 00:00 Marry Me 15:00 Bloomberg Go 21:00 The Island With Bear Grylls 00:30 Weird Loners 16:00 Bloomberg Go 21:50 Men, Women, Wild 01:00 The Nightly Show With Larry 01:00 Deliverance Creek 00:45 Doctor Foster 17:00 Bloomberg Go 22:40 River Monsters (Best Of CHEF ON OSN MOVIES HD COMEDY Wilmore 03:00 Veronica Mars 01:40 Doctor Foster 18:00 Bloomberg Markets Series 1-5) 01:30 Brickleberry 05:00 Closed Circuit 02:40 Ripper Street 19:00 Bloomberg Markets: 23:30 Highway To Sell 15:57 Mega Builders 18:40 I Didn’t Do It 07:30 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 02:00 Comedy Central Stand-Up 07:00 Non-Stop 03:35 Casualty European Close 16:44 Space Pioneer 19:05 Miraculous Tales Of 08:00 Chopped 03:00 New Girl 09:00 Godzilla 04:30 Starlings 20:00 Bloomberg Markets 17:31 Prototype This Ladybug & Cat Noir 09:00 Barefoot Contessa 03:30 The Goldbergs 11:15 A Madea Christmas 05:15 Starlings 21:00 Bloomberg Markets 18:18 Meteorite Men 19:30 Violetta 09:30 Barefoot Contessa 04:00 Men At Work 13:00 The Theory Of Everything 06:00 Roger & Val Have Just Got 22:00 Bloomberg Markets 19:05 Weird Or What? 20:20 The Next Step 10:00 The Kitchen 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring 15:15 Million Dollar Arm In 23:00 Bloomberg Markets 19:50 Food Factory 20:45 Good Luck Charlie 11:00 The Pioneer Woman Jimmy Fallon 17:30 So Undercover 06:30 The Cafe 20:15 Food Factory 21:10 Good Luck Charlie 11:30 The Pioneer Woman 05:30 Fresh Off The Boat 19:15 Dracula Untold 00:15 California Investigator 06:55 Casualty 20:40 Space Pioneer 21:35 H2O: Just Add Water 12:00 Chopped 06:00 $#*! My Dad Says 21:00 In Fear 00:40 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 07:50 Stella 21:25 How It’s Made 22:00 Binny And The Ghost 13:00 Guy’s Big Bite 06:30 Community 23:00 Wild Card 08:35 Call The Midwife 01:05 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 21:50 How It’s Made 22:25 Sabrina Secrets Of A 13:30 Guy’s Big Bite 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 09:30 Doctor Who 01:30 The Haunted 22:15 Mythbusters Teenage Witch 14:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 08:00 Men At Work 02:20 Ghost Lab 10:20 Casualty 00:00 News Update 23:00 Food Factory 22:50 Sabrina Secrets Of A 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 08:30 Cristela 11:15 Death In Paradise 03:10 House Of Horrors: 23:22 Food Factory Teenage Witch 15:00 Man Fire Food 09:00 New Girl 00:30 Dialogue Kidnapped 12:10 Stella 01:00 News Update 23:45 Space Pioneer 23:10 Hank Zipzer 15:30 Man Fire Food 09:30 The Grinder 12:55 Call The Midwife 03:35 House Of Horrors: 23:35 Binny And The Ghost 16:00 Chopped 10:00 Hot In Cleveland 01:15 China 24 Kidnapped 13:50 Doctor Who 02:00 The Heat 17:00 The Kitchen 10:30 Community 01:00 Memory Loss 14:40 Casualty 04:00 California Investigator 18:00 The Pioneer Woman 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 02:45 Blue Elephant 2 02:30 News Update 04:25 California Investigator 15:35 Stella 03:00 Global Business 18:30 The Pioneer Woman Jimmy Fallon 04:30 Egon And Donci 16:25 Call The Midwife 04:45 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 19:00 Chopped 12:00 $#*! My Dad Says 06:00 Pim And Pom: The Big 04:00 News Update 05:10 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 17:10 Doctor Who 05:00 News Update 20:00 Iron Chef America 12:30 I Hate My Teenage Adventure 18:05 Doctors 05:30 The Haunted 06:30 Dialogue 00:40 Solved 00:05 Henry Hugglemonster 21:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Daughter 07:45 Jingle All The Way 2 18:35 Doctors 06:20 Fatal Encounters 07:00 News Hour 01:30 Commander In Chief 00:20 Calimero 21:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 13:00 Cristela 09:45 Dixie And The Zombie 19:10 Death In Paradise 07:10 True Crime With Aphrodite 08:00 Global Business 02:20 Somali Pirate Takedown: 00:35 Zou 22:00 Man v Food 13:30 Community Rebellion 20:10 Unforgotten Jones 09:00 News Update The Real Story 00:50 Loopdidoo 22:30 Man v Food 14:00 The Goldbergs 11:15 Daddy I’m A Zombie 21:00 Unforgotten 08:00 Dr. G. Medical Examiner 10:30 Sports Scene 03:05 Engineering Hurricanes 01:05 Art Attack 23:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 14:30 The Grinder 12:45 Blue Elephant 2 21:50 Ripper Street 08:50 On The Case With Paula 11:00 Global Business 03:50 Solved 01:30 Henry Hugglemonster 23:30 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 15:00 Hot In Cleveland 14:30 Hatching 22:45 Death In Paradise Zahn 12:00 News Update 04:35 Extreme Engineering 01:45 Calimero 15:30 Weird Loners 16:00 Moomins And The Comet 23:40 Doctors 09:40 Fatal Encounters 12:30 Culture Express 05:20 Deadliest Catch 02:00 Zou 16:00 The Nightly Show With Larry Chase 00:45 Doctor Foster 10:30 Murder Shift 13:00 Africa Live 06:05 Bizarre Foods 02:15 Loopdidoo Wilmore 18:00 Dixie And The Zombie 01:40 Doctor Foster 11:20 Deadly Affairs 14:00 News Update 06:50 Alps From Above 02:30 Art Attack 16:30 $#*! My Dad Says Rebellion 02:40 Ripper Street 12:10 True Crime With Aphrodite 14:30 Dialogue 07:35 Origins 02:55 Henry Hugglemonster 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 20:00 Minuscule: Valley Of The 03:35 Casualty Jones 15:00 News Update 08:00 Deadliest Catch 03:05 Calimero 18:00 New Girl Lost Ants 04:30 Starlings 13:00 The Will 18:30 Marry Me 15:15 China 24 08:50 Before We Ruled The Earth 03:20 Zou 00:10 Lawless Island 22:00 Hatching 05:15 Starlings 13:50 I Almost Got Away With It 19:00 Modern Family 16:00 News Update 09:40 Alps From Above 03:30 Loopdidoo 01:00 Primal Survivor 23:30 Moomins And The Comet 06:00 Roger & Val Have Just Got 14:40 California Investigator 19:30 Hot In Cleveland 16:15 Global Business 10:30 Bizarre Foods 03:45 Art Attack 02:00 Rebuilding Taiwan: Beyond Chase In 15:05 Dr G: Medical Examiner 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 17:00 News Update 11:20 Extreme Engineering 04:10 Henry Hugglemonster The Storm 06:30 The Cafe 15:55 Fatal Encounters Jimmy Fallon 17:15 World InSight 12:10 Deadliest Catch 04:20 Calimero 02:55 Inside The Mega Twister 06:55 Casualty 16:45 On The Case With Paula 21:00 Weird Loners 18:00 Asia Today 13:00 Skyfighters 04:35 Zou 03:50 Lawless Island 07:50 Stella Zahn 21:30 The Nightly Show With Larry 18:30 Culture Express 13:50 Bizarre Foods 04:45 Loopdidoo 04:45 The Known Universe Wilmore 14:40 Extreme Engineering 05:00 Art Attack 05:40 Britain’s Greatest Machines 01:00 PGA Tour Highlights 22:00 Brickleberry 15:30 Commander In Chief 05:25 Henry Hugglemonster 06:35 Cold Water Gold 02:00 PGA European Tour 22:30 You’re The Worst 16:20 Alps From Above 05:35 Calimero 07:30 Monster Fish Highlights 23:00 Big Time In Hollywood Fl 17:10 Deadliest Catch 05:50 Zou 08:25 Rescue Ink 03:00 Europro Tour 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 18:00 Engineering Hurricanes 06:00 Loopdidoo 09:20 The Known Universe 05:00 Trans World Sport 18:50 Bizarre Foods 06:15 Art Attack 10:15 Big Fish, Texas 06:00 World Rugby 19:40 Commander In Chief 06:35 Henry Hugglemonster 11:10 Lockdown: Scam City 06:30 Gillette World Sport 20:30 Origins 06:50 Calimero 12:05 The Border 07:00 Golfing World 20:55 Origins 07:00 Zou 13:00 Rescue Ink 08:00 PGA European Tour 21:20 Treasures Of The Royal 07:20 Loopdidoo 14:00 Monster Fish Highlights 07:35 Art Attack Captain 15:00 Cold Water Gold 00:00 Chicago Fire 09:00 PGA Tour Highlights 08:00 Calimero 22:10 Extreme Engineering 16:00 Big Fish, Texas 01:00 Quantico 10:00 Trans World Sport 08:10 Zou 23:00 Origins 17:00 Breakout 02:00 Rosewood 11:00 Golfing World 08:25 Loopdidoo 23:25 Origins 18:00 Drugs Inc 03:00 Allegiance 12:00 Welsh Open Snooker 08:40 Miles From Tomorrow 23:50 Treasures Of The Royal 19:00 The Border 04:00 Good Morning America 15:00 Trans World Sport 09:05 Sofia The First Captain 20:00 Cold Water Gold 06:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 16:00 Live Welsh Open Snooker 09:30 Goldie & Bear 20:50 Breakout 07:00 Backstrom 20:00 Golfing World 09:45 Jake And The Never Land 21:40 Drugs Inc 08:00 The Player 21:00 Trans World Sport Pirates 22:30 The Border 09:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 22:00 Live Welsh Open Snooker 10:10 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 23:20 Britain’s Greatest Machines 10:00 Quantico 10:35 Doc McStuffins 11:00 Backstrom 11:00 Sofia The First 12:00 Coronation Street 11:30 Goldie & Bear 00:00 Violetta 12:30 Coronation Street 12:00 Miles From Tomorrow 00:45 The Hive 13:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 12:25 Special Agent Oso 00:50 Sabrina Secrets Of A 14:00 The Player 00:00 Live NHL 12:40 The Hive Teenage Witch 15:00 Live Good Morning America 03:00 World Rugby 12:50 Handy Manny 01:15 Sabrina Secrets Of A 00:10 Carnival Eats 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 03:30 This Week In WWE 13:15 Jungle Junction Teenage Witch 00:35 Carnival Eats 18:00 The Player 04:00 Live WWE Raw 01:40 Hank Zipzer 13:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 07:30 World Rugby 02:05 Binny And The Ghost 14:00 Sofia The First 08:00 Monster Energy AMA ANDROID COP ON OSN MOVIES ACTION 02:30 Violetta 14:25 Goldie & Bear Supercross 03:15 The Hive 14:50 Doc McStuffins 10:30 Porsche GT3 Cup Middle 03:20 Sabrina Secrets Of A 15:15 Zou East 08:35 Call The Midwife 19:00 News Update 17:35 Murder Shift Teenage Witch 15:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 11:00 WWE Afterburn 09:30 Doctor Who 19:30 The Heat 18:25 I Almost Got Away With It 03:45 Sabrina Secrets Of A 15:55 Loopdidoo 12:00 NHL 10:20 Casualty 20:00 Africa Live 19:15 The Will Teenage Witch 16:10 Miles From Tomorrow 14:00 WWE Experience 11:15 Death In Paradise 21:00 Global Business 20:05 Deadly Affairs 04:10 Hank Zipzer 16:35 Jake And The Never Land 15:00 WWE Raw 12:10 Stella 21:30 Dialogue 20:55 True Crime With Aphrodite 04:35 Binny And The Ghost Pirates 18:00 NHL 12:55 Call The Midwife 22:00 News Update Jones 05:00 Violetta 17:00 Sofia The First 20:00 WWE Raw 13:50 Doctor Who 22:15 China 24 21:45 California Investigator 05:45 The Hive 17:25 Jungle Cubs 23:00 The PGA Tour Champions 14:40 Casualty 23:00 News Update 22:10 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 05:50 Mouk 17:50 Aladdin Highlights 15:35 Stella 23:15 World InSight 22:35 Who On Earth Did I Marry? 06:00 Lolirock 18:15 Gummi Bears 16:25 Call The Midwife 23:00 Deadly Sins 06:25 Sofia The First 18:40 Goldie & Bear 17:10 Doctor Who 23:50 Deadly Women 06:50 Gravity Falls 19:05 Miles From Tomorrow 18:05 Doctors 07:15 Miraculous Tales Of 19:30 Sofia The First 18:35 Doctors 19:55 Doc McStuffins Ladybug & Cat Noir 00:00 PGA European Tour 19:10 Death In Paradise 07:40 Jessie 20:10 Jake And The Never Land Highlights 20:10 Unforgotten 08:05 Shake It Up Pirates 20:35 Miles From Tomorrow 01:00 The Weber Cup 21:00 Unforgotten 01:00 Inside China 08:30 Shake It Up 21:00 Goldie & Bear 02:00 Welsh Open Snooker 21:50 Ripper Street 01:30 Managing Asia 08:55 That’s So Raven 21:30 Sofia The First 05:00 PGA Tour Highlights 22:45 Death In Paradise 02:00 U.S. Squawk Alley 09:20 That’s So Raven 00:35 Weird Or What? 22:00 Jungle Cubs 23:40 Doctors 03:00 Asia Squawk Box 09:45 Austin & Ally 06:00 World Pool Masters 01:20 Fire In The Sky: A Daily 22:25 Aladdin 06:00 Asia Street Signs 10:10 Austin & Ally 07:00 Super League Planet Special 22:50 Gummi Bears 08:00 Capital Connection 10:35 A.N.T. Farm 09:00 The Weber Cup 02:08 Strangest Weather On Earth 23:20 Lilo And Stitch 09:00 Squawk Box Europe 11:00 A.N.T. Farm 10:00 Europro Tour 02:55 Space Pioneer 23:45 Cars Toons 12:00 Worldwide Exchange 11:25 Jessie 12:00 The Weber Cup 03:42 Meteorite Men 23:50 Zou 14:00 U.S. Squawk Box 04:29 Weird Or What? 11:50 Jessie 13:00 Golfing World 00:45 Doctor Foster 17:00 Squawk On The Street 05:16 Strangest Weather On Earth 12:20 Miraculous Tales Of 14:00 World Rugby 01:40 Doctor Foster 19:00 European Closing Bell 06:03 Space Pioneer Ladybug & Cat Noir 14:30 The World Sailing Show 02:40 Ripper Street 20:00 Fast Money: Half Time 06:50 Prototype This 12:45 Fish Hooks 15:00 Inside Sailing 03:35 Casualty Report 07:37 How Do They Do It? 12:55 Fish Hooks 15:30 NRL All-Star Match 04:30 Starlings 21:00 U.S. Power Lunch 08:00 How Do They Do It? 13:10 Good Luck Charlie 05:15 Starlings 17:30 World Rugby 23:00 U.S. Closing Bell 08:23 Weird Or What? 13:35 I Didn’t Do It 00:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 06:00 Roger & Val Have Just Got 18:00 The Weber Cup 09:08 Meteorite Men 14:00 Dog With A Blog 00:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives In 19:00 HSBC World Rugby Sevens 09:53 Prototype This 14:30 H2O 01:00 Staten Island Cakes 06:30 The Cafe Highlights 10:38 Fire In The Sky: A Daily 14:55 Girl Meets World 02:00 Mystery Diners 06:55 Casualty 19:30 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Planet Special 15:20 Jessie 02:30 Mystery Diners 07:50 Stella Highlights 11:23 Mega Builders 15:45 Miraculous Tales Of 03:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin 08:35 Call The Midwife 12:08 Space Pioneer Ladybug & Cat Noir 03:30 Man Fire Food 20:00 HSBC World Rugby Sevens 09:30 Doctor Who 00:00 Ms. Murder 12:53 Prototype This 16:10 Violetta 04:00 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Highlights 10:20 Casualty 01:00 Measuring Evil: Britain’s 13:38 Weird Or What? 17:00 The Next Step 04:30 Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives 20:30 HSBC World Rugby Sevens 11:15 Death In Paradise Worst Killers 14:23 Fire In The Sky: A Daily 17:25 Liv And Maddie 05:00 Iron Chef America Highlights 12:10 Stella 02:00 Monster In My Family Planet Special 17:50 Jessie 06:00 Chopped 21:00 Europro Tour 12:55 Call The Midwife 03:00 Ms. Murder 15:10 Meteorite Men 18:15 Austin & Ally 07:00 Roadtrip With G. Garvin UPSIDE DOWN ON OSN MOVIES FESTIVAL 23:00 Trans World Sport Classifieds

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (11/02/2016 TO 17/02/2016)

SHARQIA-1 ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 5:30 PM 360º- 1 THE FINEST HOURS 1:00 PM THE FINEST HOURS 7:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:00 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 1:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 10:00 PM THE FINEST HOURS 2:30 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 3:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:30 AM THE FINEST HOURS 5:00 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 5:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 7:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 7:30 PM FANAR-3 THE FINEST HOURS 10:00 PM THE FINEST HOURS 10:00 PM FITOOR - Hindi 11:45 AM THE FINEST HOURS 12:30 AM THE FINEST HOURS 12:30 AM THE DORAEMON MOVIE 2:30 PM THE DORAEMON MOVIE 4:30 PM 360º- 2 SHARQIA-2 FITOOR - Hindi 6:30 PM BROOKLYN 1:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 11:45 AM FITOOR - Hindi 9:15 PM BROOKLYN 4:00 PM SHAKET DABOUS 1:45 PM MIN DAHAR RAGEL - Arabic 12:05 AM CHANGE OF NAME SHAKET DABOUS 3:45 PM BROOKLYN 6:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 5:45 PM MARINA-1 BROOKLYN 9:00 PM SHAKET DABOUS 7:45 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 11:30 AM BROOKLYN 11:30 PM I, Ghallester Valera De SHAKET DABOUS 9:45 PM BROOKLYN 1:30 PM Jesus, Passport No. SHAKET DABOUS 11:45 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 3:45 PM 360º- 3 BROOKLYN 6:00 PM THE DORAEMON MOVIE-3D 1:00 PM EC2905146. Petition for cor- SHARQIA-3 BROOKLYN 8:15 PM THE DORAEMON MOVIE 3:15 PM rection. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 11:30 AM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 10:30 PM THE DORAEMON MOVIE-3D 5:30 PM Place of birth Adan BROOKLYN 1:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:45 AM VERY BIG SHOT 7:45 PM Hospital, Kuwait GHAL PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 3:45 PM VERY BIG SHOT 10:00 PM BROOKLYN 6:00 PM MARINA-2 VERY BIG SHOT 12:15 AM LESTER to GHALLESTER. PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 8:15 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:30 PM (C 5132) BROOKLYN 10:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 3:15 PM AL-KOUT.1 14-2-2016 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:45 AM VERY BIG SHOT 5:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:15 PM I, Kaleel S/o Mohamed VERY BIG SHOT 7:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 2:15 PM Mohideen, holder of Indian MUHALAB-1 THE FINEST HOURS 9:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 4:15 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:15 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:15 AM SHAKET DABOUS 6:15 PM Passport No. G3449357, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 2:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 8:15 PM residing at No. 2 Samayana ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 4:45 PM MARINA-3 SHAKET DABOUS 10:15 PM ACCOMMODATION THE FINEST HOURS 6:45 PM Sheik Mohamed Moopan THE FINEST HOURS 9:15 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:00 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:15 AM Street, Melapalayam, THE FINEST HOURS 11:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 2:00 PM Accommodation available for ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 2:00 PM AL-KOUT.2 Tirunelveli Dist., Pin- 627005, Tamilnadu. Shall decent lady, couple, bachelor MUHALAB-2 ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 4:00 PM BROOKLYN 1:00 PM in Salmiya, Amman street, C-AC PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:45 PM SHAKET DABOUS 6:00 PM THE BENEFACTOR 1:30 PM henceforth be known as flat, new building. Contact: SHAKET DABOUS 8:00 PM THE BENEFACTOR 3:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 3:00 PM Kaleel Rahman. (C 5131) 55230154. (C 5133) BROOKLYN 5:15 PM SHAKET DABOUS 10:00 PM BROOKLYN 5:30 PM 11-2-2016 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 7:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:30 AM JANE GOT A GUN 7:45 PM 16-2-2016 BROOKLYN 9:45 PM THE BENEFACTOR 9:45 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:05 AM AVENUES-1 BROOKLYN 11:45 PM FITOOR - Hindi 11:30 AM MUHALAB-3 FITOOR - Hindi 2:30 PM AL-KOUT.3 SHAKET DABOUS 12:15 PM FITOOR - Hindi 5:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 11:45 AM 112 SHAKET DABOUS 2:15 PM FITOOR - Hindi 8:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 2:00 PM SHAKET DABOUS 4:15 PM THE REVENANT 11:30 PM VERY BIG SHOT 4:15 PM SHAKET DABOUS 6:15 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 6:15 PM SHAKET DABOUS 8:15 PM AVENUES-2 VERY BIG SHOT 8:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 10:15 PM BROOKLYN 12:00 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 10:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:15 AM BROOKLYN 2:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:45 AM Prayer timings BROOKLYN 5:00 PM FANAR-1 Fajr: 05:07 BROOKLYN 11:45 AM BROOKLYN 7:30 PM BAIRAQ-1 BROOKLYN 2:00 PM BROOKLYN 10:00 PM THE FINEST HOURS 12:30 PM THE BENEFACTOR 4:15 PM BROOKLYN 12:30 AM THE DORAEMON MOVIE -3D 3:15 PM Shorook 06:27 BROOKLYN 6:15 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 5:15 PM THE BENEFACTOR 8:30 PM AVENUES-3 ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 7:15 PM Duhr: 12:02 BROOKLYN 10:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 11:30 AM THE FINEST HOURS 9:15 PM THE BENEFACTOR 12:45 AM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 1:30 PM THE FINEST HOURS 11:45 PM Asr: 15:13 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 3:45 PM FANAR-2 PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 6:00 PM BAIRAQ-2 THE FINEST HOURS 1:00 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 8:15 PM SHAKET DABOUS 12:45 PM Maghrib: 17:38 ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 1:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 10:30 PM SHAKET DABOUS 2:45 PM ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE ROAD CHIP 3:30 PM PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES 12:45 AM SHAKET DABOUS 4:45 PM Isha: 18:55

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

Arrival Flights on Tuesday 16/2/2016 AXB 393 Kozhikode 14:20 Departure Flights on Tuesday 16/2/2016 PAL 669 Dubai/Manila 14:55 Airlines Flt Route Time SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 673 Dubai 15:00 BBC 143 Dhaka 00:05 KAC 672 Dubai 14:45 AIC 976 Goa/Chennai 00:05 FDB 058 Dubai 15:10 MSC 415 Sohag 00:05 KAC 788 Jeddah 14:50 FDB 072 Dubai 00:40 QTR 1079 Doha 15:10 KLM 411 Amsterdam/Dammam 00:20 GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 MSC 404 Asyut 00:55 AXB 394 Kozhikode 15:20 JZR 267 Beirut 00:30 KNE 472 Jeddah 15:05 JAI 573 Mumbai 00:55 FBA 832 Baghdad/Al Najaf 15:25 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 OMA 645 Muscat 15:30 MSC 416 Sohag 01:00 SVA 501 Jeddah 15:45 FDB 069 Dubai 00:55 NIA 251 Alexandria 15:30 BBC 143 Chittagong/Dhaka 01:35 GFA 222 Bahrain 15:45 THY 772 Istanbul 01:05 KAC 562 Amman 15:40 KLM 411 Amsterdam 01:35 KAC 617 Doha 15:45 DLH 635 Doha 01:35 ABY 127 Sharjah 15:45 THY 773 Istanbul 02:30 KAC 613 Bahrain 15:50 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:45 UAE 857 Dubai 15:45 DLH 635 Frankfurt 02:35 KAC 773 Riyadh 15:50 PGT 858 Istanbul 02:00 JAD 301 Amman 15:55 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:45 KAC 741 Dammam 15:55 UAE 853 Dubai 02:30 QTR 1072 Doha 16:10 UAE 854 Dubai 03:45 KNE 473 Jeddah 16:05 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:30 FDB 051 Dubai 16:30 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:55 ABY 128 Sharjah 16:25 OMA 643 Muscat 02:55 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:40 OMA 644 Muscat 03:55 NIA 252 Alexandria 16:30 FDB 067 Dubai 03:05 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 FDB 068 Dubai 04:00 OMA 646 Muscat 16:30 RJA 644 Amman 03:05 KAC 542 Cairo 16:55 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 JAD 302 Amman 16:40 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:15 JZR 266 Beirut 17:05 QTR 1076 Doha 03:15 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 KKK 6508 Istanbul 04:20 JZR 238 Amman 17:30 KKK 6507 Istanbul 03:20 MSR 614 Cairo 17:50 QTR 1077 Doha 05:00 ETD 304 Abu Dhabi 17:30 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 03:25 JZR 325 Al Najaf 17:50 THY 765 Istanbul 05:15 FDB 052 Dubai 17:35 THY 6376 Istanbul 05:05 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 JZR 560 Sohag 06:10 QTR 1073 Doha 17:40 DHX 170 Bahrain 05:40 UAE 875 Dubai 18:00 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 JZR 538 Cairo 17:45 THY 770 Istanbul 05:55 KAC 502 Beirut 18:00 THY 6376 Dubai/Istanbul 06:35 UAE 858 Dubai 17:45 FDB 5061 Dubai 06:30 FDB 063 Dubai 18:05 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 RJA 641 Amman 17:55 BAW 157 London 06:40 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 RJA 645 Amman 07:05 SVA 511 Riyadh 18:15 PAL 668 Manila/Dubai 06:55 KAC 680 Muscat 18:25 THY 771 Istanbul 07:05 GFA 216 Bahrain 18:20 KAC 416 Jakarta/Kuala Lumpur 07:15 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:30 FDB 5062 Dubai 07:10 JZR 184 Dubai 18:40 KAC 412 Manila/Bangkok 07:20 ABY 123 Sharjah 18:45 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 MSR 615 Cairo 18:50 QTR 1086 Doha 07:40 QTR 1080 Doha 18:55 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 JZR 124 Bahrain 19:10 FDB 053 Dubai 07:45 KAC 742 Dammam 19:05 QTR 1087 Doha 08:40 FDB 064 Dubai 19:20 SVA 512 Riyadh 07:50 KAC 614 Bahrain 19:10 BAW 156 London 08:45 ABY 124 Sharjah 19:25 KAC 302 Mumbai 07:50 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:25 SVA 513 Riyadh 08:50 UAE 876 Dubai 19:30 OMA 641 Muscat 08:00 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:30 OMA 642 Muscat 08:55 GFA 218 Bahrain 20:15 KAC 382 Delhi 08:00 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:25 KAC 283 Dhaka 20:35 KAC 354 BLR 08:15 KAC 618 Doha 19:35 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 KAC 361 Colombo 20:45 KAC 206 Islamabad 08:25 KAC 104 London 19:40 KAC 513 Tehran 09:45 KAC 351 Kochi 20:50 KAC 352 Kochi 08:30 KAC 674 Dubai 19:45 KAC 101 London/New York 09:55 QTR 1081 Doha 20:50 UAE 855 Dubai 08:40 MSR 618 Alexandria 20:05 KAC 541 Cairo 09:55 KAC 343 Chennai 21:00 KAC 332 Trivandrum 08:50 FDB 061 Dubai 20:20 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 MSR 607 Luxor 21:05 KAC 362 Colombo 08:50 OMA 647 Muscat 20:20 KAC 561 Amman 10:00 KAC 331 Trivandrum 21:10 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 FDB 5053 Dubai 20:50 KAC 671 Dubai 10:05 OMA 648 Muscat 21:20 KAC 284 Dhaka 09:10 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:55 ETD 302 Abu Dhabi 10:25 FDB 062 Dubai 21:20 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:20 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:55 KAC 501 Beirut 10:30 DLH 634 Doha 21:45 QTR 1070 Doha 09:25 QTR 1088 Doha 21:00 FDB 056 Dubai 10:35 DHX 171 Bahrain 21:50 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:20 KAC 165 Rome/Paris 11:00 FDB 5054 Dubai 21:50 IRC 6507 Shiraz 10:30 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 QTR 1071 Doha 11:00 JAI 571 Mumbai 21:55 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 ALK 229 Colombo 21:25 GFA 214 Bahrain 11:25 KAC 381 Delhi 22:00 IRA 675 Lar 10:40 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 IRC 6508 Shiraz 11:30 QTR 1089 Doha 22:00 UAE 873 Dubai 11:05 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 IRA 674 Lar 11:40 KAC 301 Mumbai 22:10 RBG 553 Alexandria 11:15 QTR 1082 Doha 22:00 RBG 554 Alexandria 11:55 ETD 308 Abu Dhabi 22:10 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 JZR 125 Bahrain 22:00 JZR 776 Jeddah 12:20 KAC 203 Lahore 22:10 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 KLM 415 Amsterdam 22:05 UAE 874 Dubai 12:30 MEA 403 Beirut 22:20 SAW 701 Damascus 12:20 AIC 987 Chennai/Hyderabad 22:25 MEA 405 Beirut 12:55 ALK 230 Colombo 22:25 FDB 075 Dubai 12:25 ETD 309 Abu Dhabi 22:25 KAC 785 Jeddah 13:00 GFA 220 Bahrain 22:30 MSC 401 Alexandria 12:30 FDB 059 Dubai 22:30 KAC 679 Muscat 13:00 UAE 860 Dubai 22:55 JZR 561 Sohag 12:45 PIA 239 Sialkot 22:35 FDB 076 Dubai 13:10 KAC 345 Ahmedabad 23:00 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 JZR 239 Amman 23:05 MSC 402 Alexandria 13:30 QTR 1083 Doha 23:05 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 JZR 185 Dubai 23:15 SAW 702 Damascus 13:35 KLM 415 Dammam/Amsterdam 23:05 QTR 1078 Doha 14:10 FDB 071 Dubai 23:45 JZR 176 Dubai 13:45 KAC 205 Islamabad 23:10 FDB 057 Dubai 14:10 THY 764 Istanbul 23:50 MSR 611 Cairo 14:00 ETD 310 Abu Dhabi 23:15 KAC 514 Tehran 14:10 JAI 574 Mumbai 23:55 UAE 872 Dubai 14:15 KAC 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:35 FBA 831 Al Najaf 14:15 MSC 403 Asyut 23:55 JZR 324 Al Najaf 14:25 FDB 060 Dubai 23:35 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION p34_p34 stars 2/15/16 7:21 PM Page 1

stars34 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

CROSSWORD 1170 STAR TRACK

Aries (March 21-April 19) Libra (September 23-October 22)

You are entering a phase of emotional directness, emotional beginnings, a When dealing with groups, if changes are necessary, you will probably fresh start, perhaps the establishment of new habit patterns. Some sort of encourage sweeping changes. Whatever you do, your ability to make things run smoothly change in the routine may have stressed everybody around your place of business. Taking should produce excellent results. Remove the emotions and go with the facts, especially time to make yourself clear and making sure you understand what others say will ease the when it comes to difficulties in communication. You can turn a difficult situation at work tensions. This may be a time of experimenting with new concepts and putting aside the into a positive one. You may stumble upon a remedy to some long-term problem. An familiar for now. Again, clear communication is imperative. Ambition and achievement extra step can be eliminated with the information you now have to offer. This may also can be tough taskmasters just now. You win reward, recognition and authority through mean an elimination of some transportation schedule, faster mail turnaround or better hard work and knowing the score. Now is the time to make a decision in the romance dialoging between departments. People close to you are optimistic. This evening, an old- department. Say what you mean and mean what you say. er friend will advise you, if you ask.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Scorpio (October 23-November 21) This is a good day to make a deal favorable for any business, financial or This should be one of those easygoing days when nothing is a really big legal ventures! Your mind is alert, your objectives are clear and your buoyant optimism will deal. It might be a good time to seek a solution to any technical or emotional problems help win your way. Lunchtime may be a good time to jog with a co-worker or shoot some that hang over your head. You have an open mind and are able to see all aspects of a situa- baskets. This afternoon you could complete or at least make great headway on those tion. Do not compromise away anything that is important to you, though it may seem eas- ongoing projects and clean off your desk. Stick to routine tasks this evening and avoid ier to do so. Your good feelings may tempt you to overindulge-put off any shopping until starting any new personal projects or heading out in new directions. A liberal and tolerant another day. If you are able to get together with friends for a while after work, do so . . . It is attitude is a very good thing to have on those winter days when you may feel trapped always good to have the opportunity to build on friendships. A secret may be revealed to indoors. You may be thinking of a move or adding on to the present home site. A roomier, you and will relieve your concerns from the past few days. Worry was not necessary-the more spread out feeling is desired. secret was a frivolous one.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

You will probably pull away from associates who have slowed your New solutions or inventions are on the brink of discovery and you and your progress. This may even mean a new job. Whatever the case, much can be accomplished co-workers dig in for another exciting day. You are inventive, original and before the noon break. Updating equipment or skills seems to be the focus for the after- high tech. You enjoy new discoveries whether you or someone else is the one to have cre- noon. New, futuristic ideas are part of this, but it’s much more than that: putting them into ated the discovery. Push to obtain your goals but try not to overdo and go too far too fast. ACROSS DOWN practice is essential. Any problems with personal relationships should melt away. Visiting Let things take their natural course, which should be an easy one now. At times you are 1. Cuddling and kissing. 1. Of or relating to or caused by streptococci. with old friends will prove beneficial in that someone may offer you a chance to make cautious with your co-worker friends but you look forward to the work projects as well as 5. A centare is 1/100th of an are. 2. City in Sudan. some money. Charisma is high and first impressions are exciting. The accent this evening planned get-togethers where there are many personalities grouped together. You enjoy the cordial socializing and may be helpful in the planning of social gatherings. After such 12. A form of address for a married woman. is on sociability, entertaining, love and affection. A new love interest could appear. You 3. A fully differentiated structural and func- may be inspired to compose a bit of poetry. a busy day, consider bringing home dinner. 15. (Norse mythology) God of war and strife tional unit in an animal that is specialized and son of Odin. for some particular function. 16. Regional and archaic. 4. An island state in the West Indies in the 17. A former agency (from 1946 to 1974) that southeastern Caribbean Sea. Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) was responsible for research into atomic 5. An ancient language spoken by the Kassite There is a tendency to be too strict with yourself. You will probably insist energy and its peacetime uses in the people. that whatever does not contribute to security and other long-term goals is trivial. Take You are learning to change the negative to the positive these days. It just United States. your breaks-there is a need for the accuracy that you are so well known for, so estimate the takes too darn much time to stay in the worry zone or on the slow track-shake it and use 6. A newt in its terrestrial stage of develop- your sense of humor around those that seem determined to have you worry! You could be 18. A feeling of intense anger. time it will take you to complete a job in an accurate fashion-give yourself plenty of time. ment. irresistibly drawn to a fascinating new person this afternoon. To those of you who are sin- Your ambition is intensified. You feel a love of order and law-an appreciation for responsi- 19. Cooked in steam. 7. (meaning literally `born') Used to indicate gle . . . This could be your future sweetheart. To those of you who are engaged . . . You bilities and duty. Business is growing and your skills are in demand. Do not settle for a sec- 20. A nucleic acid that transmits genetic infor- the maiden or family name of a married should be at home! Use a quiet time at home this evening to gather what is needed to mation from DNA to the cytoplasm. ond-class job when you and your skills are first-class. Demand proper pay for your work. work on tax and estate issues. Solid achievement is in front of you-leave yourself time to woman. You may be shopping this afternoon-looking for that perfect suit for your perfect job. enjoy each day to its fullest. Chase off the chill tonight with a fire in the fireplace, some 21. A genus of small kites of both Old and 8. An official language of the Republic of Have faith in your ability to attain your goals. New Worlds. toasted marshmallows, soft music and perhaps a shared massage. South Africa. 23. The work of cleansing (usually with soap 9. Dry brandy distilled in the Armagnac district and water). of France. 25. Low stingless nettle of Central and South Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) 10. Female ruff v 1. America having velvety brownish-green 11. Tropical starchy tuberous root. Emphasis today is on your work, profession or public image-not your pri- toothed leaves and clusters of small green vate life. You may wish to reflect on long-range plans and determine just how well things You may feel as though yo u are running a ra ce. Also, you may te nd to push yourself in order to ra ce with others. In sights are flashing to you unexpectedly-keep notes! 12. A member of a rural Finnish people living are falling into place. This may be a good time to announce your plans or take a stand on flowers. This is a great day for technical, scientific work or any kind of task that requires cleverness. in eastern Russia. some issue and get a dialogue going between yourself and others. Clarification is the key. 28. A brittle gray crystalline element that is a Make it a point to slow yourself-your work will be more valuable and you will better semiconducting metalloid (resembling 13. A city in western Nevada at the foot of the Delays, cancellations, difference of opinion would not be unlikely this afternoon. Through remember specific points. If you stop and think about where you we re this time last ye ar, the process of elimination you will find just where the problem started-this is where you silicon) used in transistors. Sierra Nevada Mountains. regarding finances, you will find huge improvements have occurred. Lady luck seems 14. The act of scanning. will untangle and fix most any problem. Good choices are available this evening for what- determined to stay on your team this year. Without taking undue risk, there are opportuni- 29. An item of factual information derived ever you want to achieve. Having and appreciating things of beauty and value plays a big 22. A benevolent aspect of Devi. ties to invest. Be diligent all ye ar long in health matters; habitual exercise, sleep and a bal- from measurement or research. role now. A few quality items are worthy investments. anced diet are wo rt h the effort. 30. Offering fun and gaiety. 24. Offspring of a male tiger and a female lion. 34. A town and port in northwestern Israel in 26. Italian violin maker and grandson of the eastern Mediterranean. Andrea Guarneri (1687?-1745). Virgo (August 23-September 22) 37. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. 27. Before noon. Pisces (February 19-March 20) You are a positive influence to others as this workweek opens. There 40. The longer of the two telegraphic signals 31. An island consisting of a circular coral reef You may prefer to be alone this morning. No big deal-you probably just used in Morse code. surrounding a lagoon. could even be an instance where others will change the wording of their sentences to a feel like tending to those business matters that need to be completed. If 41. The limits within which something can be 32. Yellow carotenoid pigments in plants and more upbeat and less corrupt content because of your presence. This is a lucky day, and you must confer with others, you would rather it be over something important-saving the along with your ability to make things run smoothly, it should produce some excellent effective. animal fats and egg yolks. small talk for another time. You may have much to accomplish. If ever you needed a day results. If you are consulting others today, now would be a good day to take some extra for methodical or contemplative work, this is it. After the noon meal, however, your daily 42. A short personal letter. 33. Punish with an arbitrary penalty. time to mull over any financial questions. You encourage others to settle old debts and to routine, which you normally do not think much about, should be upbeat and energized. 43. Of or relating to Aram or to its inhabitants 35. The unit of measurement for the propor- finish projects before starting another one. This is an excellent time to emphasize practi- You make an excellent listener, as anyone who comes to you for advice will know. After the or their culture or their language. tion of gold in an alloy. cality. This evening, you may be inclined to physical activities, like sports, especially with workday has ended, you will have plenty of time to visit with a friend. Your sense of humor your close friends. Enjoy but do not overexert your energies. 47. A radioactive element of the actinide 36. African mahogany trees. is sharpened and you enjoy your friends in the evening. series. 38. Of a temperature scale that registers the 49. (Irish) The sea personified. freezing point of water as 32 degrees F 50. A department of northwestern France in and the boiling point as 212 degrees F at Word Search Yesterday Solution the Pays de la Loire region. one atmosphere of pressure. 51. A political system in which the supreme 39. A boy or man. power lies in a body of citizens who can 44. Used at the dining table. elect people to represent them. 45. Founder in 1629 of the Massachusetts Bay 54. Conforming to or constituting a standard Colony (1588-1665). of measurement or value. 46. Using a pronoun or other pro-word 56. A rare heavy polyvalent metallic element instead of repeating a word. that resembles manganese chemically 48. The side of a sidewalk that is bordered by a and is used in some alloys. curb. 57. A colorless odorless gaseous element that 52. An international organization of European give a red glow in a vacuum tube. countries formed after World War II to 58. A shade of brown with a tinge of red. reduce trade barriers and increase coop- 59. Having undesirable or negative qualities. 61. Deliver a sermon. eration among its members. 68. A shout to attract attention. 53. A signal transmitted along a narrow path. 69. (Norse mythology) God of poetry and 55. Dip a foot or hand briefly into a liquid. music. 60. (Irish) Chief god of the Tuatha De Danann. 71. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which 62. Not widely known. the pilot is talked down by ground control 63. Other than what is under consideration or using precision approach radar. implied. 72. The bureau of the Treasury Department 64. An amino acid that is found in the central responsible for tax collections. nervous system. 73. Of a leaf shape. 65. Advanced in years. 75. A barrier constructed to contain the flow 66. Someone who works (or provides workers) or water or to keep out the sea. during a strike. 76. The 26th letter of the Roman alphabet. 67. God of love and erotic desire. 77. A spread consisting of capers and black 70. A Chadic language spoken in northern olives and anchovies made into a puree Nigeria. with olive oil. 74. The sciences concerned with gathering 78. A loose sleeveless outer garment made and manipulating and storing and retriev- from aba cloth. ing and classifying recorded information. Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 information

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Features Taksim plays romantic music at Feb Kuwait festival By Nawara Fattahova

s part of the Febrayer Al Kuwait festival, popular Turkish band Taksim Trio O2 performed on Sunday Aevening at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The band, con- sisting of three members, began its performance at 9:00 pm and presented classical romantic music on the occa- sion of Valentine’s Day, until 10:30 pm. Hosni Senlendirici plays on the clarinet, AytaÁ Dogan plays on the zither and Ismail TunÁbilek plays on the buzuk (lute). The band released its first album in 2007, and also distributed music for many Arab singers, including a popu- lar song by Kuwaiti veteran singer Abdullah Al-Ruwaished. This is not their first time performing in Kuwait. The band also sang part of Ruwaished’s song. Dogan said that they are happy to be performing in Kuwait, especially since the audience interacts with them. Valentine’s Day gets pulses racing at frozen NY Fashion Week

ew York Fashion Week got pulses racing on Valentine’s Day, with boyish allure from Victoria Beckham, a dance Nparty from Diane von Furstenberg and stunning magic realism from Prabal Gurung. Supermodel Karlie Kloss and Vogue editor in chief Anna Wintour led fashionistas braving 11 degrees Fahrenheit (12 Celsius) on one of the coldest week- ends in 20 years in New York on day four of the style bonanza that wraps up Thursday. Beckham began the day by sending a boyish yet fine-tai- lored feminine collection down a carpeted runway, with her English footballer husband David, and their children Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper front row. Models strode the carpet- ed runway in checks, houndstooth and stripes in a collection that showcased Beckham’s increasingly sophisticated and evolving personal style, her Spice Girls days long gone. Beckham’s answer to wrapping up warm is layering up, so spaghetti strap dresses were paired with luscious ribbed knits, checked double-breasted coats with ribbed sleeves and knit- ted leggings. “I don’t know what to say, I feel quite overwhelmed, so I’m really happy,” said the English designer backstage after win- ning praise from style editors, dressed unusually casually in white sneakers, tailored dark trousers and an oversized white (From left) Lily Aldridge, Irina Shayk, Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Karlie Kloss, Jourdan Dunn, Elsa Hosk and Alanna Arrington pose wearing sweater. “There are some more masculine fabrics, which I’ve Diane Von Furstenberg Fall 2016 during New York Fashion Week on February 14, 2016 in New York City. — AP/AFP photos used,” she told reporters. “It feels like a very feminine collec- tion to me but I love adding those menswear elements to real- danced in a little tableau. Von Furstenberg also joined them ly toughen it up.” Beckham, whose second store opens in briefly, throwing a few shapes with the models to the strains Hong Kong in weeks following the success of her Mayfair bou- of 1979 disco hit “We Are Family.” Prabal Gurung, the New tique in London, said she used light fabrics to take into con- York-based Nepalese designer, summed up his collection as a sideration her clients in different climates. “Asia is my fastest- fashion designer’s take on magical realism inspired by French growing market,” Beckham told AFP. “I really love Asian artist Henri Rousseau’s 1905 oil painting “Woman Walking in women, I feel that they really understand fashion and it an Exotic Forest” and the 1813 poem “She Walks in Beauty” by seemed like the perfect place for the second store.” There were Lord Byron. coats galore but also plenty of bare shoulders. There were luxurious oversized coats with exaggerated fur collars. A designer who often finds inspiration in nature, he Karlie, Gigi, Kendall opened the show with models dressed in snow white, and “I just wanted to look at what I’ve worn and what I love and intricate feather and leaf designs were picked out on coats in just rework those pieces to make them feel new and fresh, and prints and hand-embroidered lace. Contrasting with snow just show how my personal style has evolved,” Beckham said. were pewter, midnight, ivory, cherry, blackberry and pale blue One well-wisher presented her with a beautifully crafted posy sky, his classic east-meets-west approach mixed hand-knit of pink and white roses backstage and wished her a happy Nepalese cashmere and printed, pleated leather. Model Jourdan Dunn Valentine’s Day. But when asked if she had special plans later His coats were breathtaking, such as a snow wool duffle Sunday, the 41-year-old mother of four said: “I’ll be working!” coat with white fox fur trim, and an oversized pale blue jacket Diane von Furstenberg dispensed with the catwalk to invite with an enormous pale blue and midnight blue fox fur trim her guests to celebrate Valentine’s Day and “love power” by collar running down the front. “Amazing,” “wow,” breathed sipping champagne and nibbling vodka jelly hearts as models members of the audience as Gurung appeared for a little wave danced. at the end of the show and a burst of applause. — AFP She hosted the event at her studios in the Meatpacking District, where Kloss wore a long golden wrap dress, and mod- Model Coco Rocha els of the moment Gigi Hadid and Kendall Jenner posed and

Fashion designer Diane Von Furstenberg (left) and editor- The Victoria Beckham Fall 2016 collection is modeled during Fashion Week in New York. in-chief of American Vogue, Anna Wintour. lifestyle TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Awards ‘The Revenant’ and DiCaprio are winners at BAFTA film awards

he UK film industry showered Valentine’s amazing.” “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” won Day love on “The Revenant” Sunday, the BAFTA for visual effects. The black comedy Tawarding the endurance epic five prizes, anthology “Wild Tales,” written and directed by including best picture and best actor, at the Argentine Damian Szifron, won for non- British Academy Film Awards. Leonardo English language film. The famed Italian film DiCaprio cemented his Oscar-favorite status composer, Ennio Morricone at age 87 received by taking the best-actor trophy for playing a the music award for his score to Quentin bear-battling fur trapper in a brutally wild Tarantino’s “The Hateful Eight.” American West. Alejandro G Inarritu was named best director for what he called a A lifetime achievement “human and tender story,” and “The Revenant” The movie awards season has been domi- also won prizes for cinematography and nated by debate about why the film industry sound. remains dominated by white men. All the act- DiCaprio, who has been nominated three ing nominees for the Oscars both this year times before at the British awards without and last have been white. The BAFTAs are winning, said in his acceptance speech that he slightly more diverse, with two black actors was “absolutely humbled” to beat “The nominated - Boyega and Idris Elba, a support- US actor Leonardo DiCaprio poses with the award for a leading actor for Martian” star Matt Damon, “Trumbo”“s Bryan ing-actor contender for “Beasts of No Nation.” his work on the film ‘The Revenant’. Mexican director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu poses with the award for a Cranston, Michael Fassbender for “Steve Jobs,” Pioneering black American actor Sidney director for the film ‘The Revenant’ which won the award for best film at and Eddie Redmayne for “The Danish Girl.” He Poitier - the first black best-actor Oscar winner, the BAFTA British Academy Film Awards. — AP/AFP photos cited the influence on his work of British in 1963 - received a lifetime achievement actors including Tom Courtney, Peter O’Toole, award, the BAFTA fellowship. Winners Daniel Day Lewis and his “Revenant” co-star A group called Creatives of Colour Network Tom Hardy, and sent thanks and greetings to organized a protest beside the red carpet Film - “The Revenant” his mother, whose birthday fell on Sunday. against a lack of racial diversity in show busi- British Film - “Brooklyn” The British awards, known as BAFTAs, are ness. Demonstrators rallied under the hashtag Director - Alejando G Inarritu, “The Revenant” considered a portent of success at #baftablackout, and distributed leaflets Actor - Leonardo DiCaprio, “The Revenant” Hollywood’s Feb 28 Academy Awards. “The declaring the awards “male, pale and stale.” Actress - Brie Larson, “Room” Revenant” has earned DiCaprio his sixth Oscar The head of the British film academy said she Supporting Actor - Mark Rylance, “Bridge of Spies” nomination - and, many believe, his best shot supported the protesters’ aims. “Our industry Supporting Actress - Kate Winslet, “Steve Jobs” at finally winning. DiCaprio said it was out of isn’t diverse enough, so the pool of people to Rising Star - John Boyega his hands, but expressed pride in what he draw award winners from isn’t diverse British Debut - Director/producer Naji Abu Nowar and producer Rupert called “not just a film, but an epic journey we enough,” chief executive Amanda Berry told Lloyd, “Theeb” all went on.” “We put our heart and soul into the Daily Telegraph newspaper. Like Original Screenplay - “Spotlight” this movie ... It’s up to the world now and vot- Hollywood’s Academy of Motion Picture Arts Adapted Screenplay - “The Big Short” ers to decide,” he said at a post-ceremony and Sciences, the British film academy says it Film Not in the English Language - “Wild Tales” news conference. The best-actress trophy will work to make sure its 6,500 voting mem- Music - Ennio Morricone, “The Hateful Eight” went to Brie Larson as a mother trying to bers become a more diverse group. On the Cinematography - Emmanuel Lubezki, “The Revenant” shield her son from a terrible reality in “Room.” red carpet, Boyega said he was glad the issue Editing - “Mad Max: Fury Road” US actor Leonardo DiCaprio (right) poses with the award for a leading She won out over Alicia Vikander for “The was being aired. “I just think a larger conversa- Production Design - “Mad Max: Fury Road” actor for his work on the film ‘The Revenant’ with award presenter US Danish Girl,” Cate Blanchett for “Carol,” Maggie tion is being had and I think that’s a very, very Costume Design - “Mad Max: Fury Road” actor Tom Cruise (left). Smith for “The Lady in the Van” and Saoirse positive thing,” he said. — AP Sound - “The Revenant” Ronan for “Brooklyn.” Visual Effects - “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Makeup and Hair - “Mad Max: Fury Road” Doubt themselves Animated Feature - “Inside Out” Supporting performer prizes went to Mark Short Film - “Operator” Rylance, a soft-spoken Soviet agent in “Bridge Short Animation - “Edmond” of Spies,” and Kate Winslet, an Apple executive Documentary - “Amy” in “Steve Jobs.” Winslet dedicated the prize to Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema - Angels Costumes “all those young women who doubt them- Academy Fellowship - Sidney Poitier.-AP selves,” recalling that she once had been told to go for “the fat-girl parts.” “Look at me now!” Winslet said. “The Revenant” beat several hotly tipped awards contenders, including Steven Spielberg’s Cold War thriller “Bridge of Spies” and Todd Haynes’ lesbian romance “Carol.” Each had nine BAFTA nominations, but Sound editors Chris Duesterdiek, Martin Hernandez, Frank A Montano, “Bridge of Spies” won only for Rylance’s per- Jon Taylor and Randy Thom pose with their awards for sound for their formance, while “Carol” was shut out. work on the film ‘The Revenant’. Irish emigrant saga “Brooklyn” was named best British film, a distinct category, while the documentary prize went to “Amy,” a powerful portrait of the rise and fall of singer Amy Winehouse. George Miller’s dystopian thrill ride “Mad Max: Fury Road” took four prizes: editing, production design, costume design, and hair and makeup. Two leading Oscar con- tenders also won awards: “Spotlight,” the dra- ma about newspaper reporters investigating sex abuses in the Catholic Church, for original screenplay, nd “The Big Short,” the financial cri- sis dramedy, for adapted screenplay. On a crisp, cool London winter evening, hundreds of fans gathered to watch the stars arrive at the Royal Opera House. Among the arrivals were nominees DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Fassbender, Blanchett, Spielberg, Winslet, and “Star Wars” action hero John Boyega. Inside the plush auditorium, actor-comedian Stephen Fry hosted a ceremony that included a Valentine’s-themed kiss-cam stunt which saw seatmates including DiCaprio and Maggie Producer Steve Golin (third right), Mexican director, writer and producer Smith smooch onscreen. Alejandro G Inarritu (third left), winner also of the award for a director, US pro- Boyega won the Rising Star award - decid- ducer Mary Parent (second left) and US producer Keith Redmon (second right) ed by public vote - and dedicated it to “all the and US actor Leonardo DiCaprio (right), winner of the leader actor award, pose Lily Donaldson British actress Gwendoline young dreamers who are hard-working, who with the award for best film for ‘The Revenant’ with award presenter Tom Cruise Christie are determined and who quite frankly are (left). Sonoya Mizuno

British actor Idris Elba British actor Eddie Redmayne British actor John Boyega British actor John Boyega Award presenter British actor Sacha Baron Cohen

Award presenter British actor and director Stanley Tucci. Argentinian director Damian Szifron (right) poses with the award for a film not in the English lan- Director Naji Abu Nowar, left, and producer Rupert Lloyd pose with their guage for ‘Wild Tales’ with Hugo Sigman (second left) and award presenters Irish actor Domhnall awards for Outstanding Debut for the film ‘Theeb’. Gleeson (left) and US actress Carrie Fisher (second right). lifestyle TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Music & Movies

Tori Kelly sings during the Clive Davis & The Recording Academy’s 2016 Pre-Grammy Gala Adam Lambert Elle King show in Beverly Hills, California. — AP/AFP photos Grammys set with Lamar, Swift in front he music industry was set Monday to recognize its top Andra Day artists at the Grammys, with socially conscious rapper TKendrick Lamar and pop superstar Taylor Swift leading nominations. The music world’s annual extravaganza in Los Angeles kicked off with a gala late Sunday that brought a rare performance by the surviving members of Nirvana. Lamar, whose experimental rap opus “To Pimp a Butterfly” reflects on the state of race relations in contemporary America, stands to dominate the Grammys with nominations in 11 categories. The Grammy haul is the largest number of nominations for a single artist in one night since Michael Jackson following his massive “Thriller.” Lamar’s “Alright” has emerged as an unofficial anthem of the Black Lives Matter movement against police brutality. Another track on the album, “How Much a Dollar Cost,” a med- itation inspired by a panhandler in South Africa, was named by President Barack Obama as his favorite song of 2015. But Lamar faces tough competition from his sometime collabora- tor Swift, whose album “1989” was by far the best-selling album for the period. The 26-year-old, who with “1989” fully transformed from country prodigy to pop superstar, is up for seven awards including Record of the Year and Song of the Year for her chart-topping single “Blank Space.” Tied with Swift at seven nominations is Canadian R&B singer The Weeknd, who began his career in near anonymity in 2010 as he posted songs on the Internet but rose to fame last year with “Can’t Feel My Face.”

‘Uptown Funk’ Verdine White, from But a favorite for Record of the Year-which recognizes over- Grohl and Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic played a one-off left, Maurice White and all singles, whereas Song of the Year awards writers-is show together at a New York bar in 2014 following Nirvana’s Ralph Johnson of Earth, “Uptown Funk,” which spent a near-record 14 weeks at num- induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, but talk of a Wind and Fire perform. ber one of the US chart. With vocals by Bruno Mars set to a broader reunion by the grunge icons has remained specula- funky beat reminiscent of early Prince, the song marked a tion. Other performers included the 70-year-old Carly Simon, breakthrough as a solo artist by 40-year-old veteran British who has played sparingly in recent years. She offered a spirit- producer Mark Ronson. In a sign of the wide appeal of ed performance of her signature song, “You’re So Vain,” with “Uptown Funk,” among those rooting for it to win is glam met- her son Ben Taylor on guitar. Simon flew to Los Angeles at the al pioneer Alice Cooper, who said he was astounded by the last minute in anticipation of filling in for soft rock crooner production. “It’s not my kind of music, but it’s the best record Barry Manilow, who was rushed to a hospital last week for of the year easily,” Cooper told AFP. “Ronson did an amazing complications from oral surgery. But Manilow nonetheless job on that record. He’s the next big guy,” Cooper said. performed at the party, appearing in good form and spirits. Cooper will perform at the Grammys in his group The “We had no way of knowing until this very day, today, that he Jason Scheff of the band Chicago performs. Hollywood Vampires that features both Aerosmith’s Joe Perry would be able to perform,” Davis told the crowd.-AFP and actor Johnny Depp on guitars. Cooper-who described Depp as a “killer guitar player” despite being better known for movies-promised a loud rendition of Motorhead’s “Ace of Carly Simon Spades” in memory of the metal band’s late frontman Lemmy. The Grammys will pay tribute to a number of artists who recently died, chief among them the rock icon David Bowie. Lady Gaga, whose glittery outfits and sexual frankness bear a clear influence from Bowie, has promised a “multisensory” tribute to the Starman who died last month from a publicly undisclosed battle with cancer.

‘For two geniuses’ Bowie was also honored on the eve of the Grammys at an annual party thrown by veteran music executive Clive Davis, with alternative rock great Beck playing with surviving mem- bers of Nirvana. “This is for two geniuses who are no longer with us,” Beck said as he opened “The Man Who Saved The World”-a Bowie song famously covered acoustically by Nirvana shortly before frontman Kurt Cobain’s suicide. Beck, Honoree Irving Azoff who won Album of the Year in 2015, led the song with touch- accepts the Recording es of both versions as Nirvana’s Dave Grohl, now singer and Academy President’s guitarist of Foo Fighters, returned to drums. Merit Award.

Actor Sylvester Stallone (right) gestures as his wife Barry Manilow performs on stage. Adam Lambert, left, and Jack Antonoff perform on stage. Melissa Etheridge performs on stage. Jennifer Flavin looks on.

US band Chicago performs on stage. Pat Smear, from left, Dave Grohl, Beck, and Krist Novoselic perform on stage. lifestyle TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016

Music & Movies Kanye West says he’s $53 Million in debt t wouldn’t be a typical week in the Kanye West hype fashion label. According to Business Insider, his latest clothing machine without some head-scratching moments-this line is selling high-end coats and jackets for as much as $3,000 Itime around they included a Bill Cosby endorsement and a to $4,000. The Kanye sweatpants alone cost $510. In a 2015 second Taylor Swift feud. But on Saturday night, prior to interview with BET, the controversial rapper said he incurred releasing his eighth studio album and performing on $16 million in debt from his fashion business. “Saturday Night Live,” the rapper disclosed perhaps his biggest “I was trying to play a sport that’s a billionaire sport. It’s not shocker yet when he revealed that he was $53 million in debt. a millionaire sport and I’m proud of the debt,” he boasted. The 38 year-old West made the claim on Twitter shortly before West, on Sunday morning, asked Facebook CEO Mark the highly-anticipated album premiered exclusively on Tidal Zuckerburg to invest $1 billion in his ideas because he is “the and his website. greatest living artist and the greatest artist of all time.” In yet “I write this to you my brothers while still 53 million dollars another strange twist in the Kanye-”Life of Pablo” saga, phar- in personal debt,” he tweeted. “Please pray we overcome... This maceutical exec Martin Shkreli claimed he had been scammed is my true heart.” The “Life of Pablo” album download, howev- out of $15 million in an attempt to buy exclusive rights to er, was taken down quickly Sunday after less than 12 hours West’s new album. “Someone named Daquan said he was online, with the rapper explaining that he’d given the exclu- Kanye’s boy and I signed the deal to buy ‘Pablo’ and sent the sive stream to Tidal for another week before going on sale to Bitcoin. Call the police, this is b——t,” he wrote. , who was other outlets-a sign that the multi-Grammy-winner was likely recently arrested on securities fraud charges, told his Twitter in dire straits. After the “Life of Pablo” download link had dis- followers on Sunday that he’d been in touch with Bitcoin appeared, he wrote, “Please for all music lovers. Please sub- founder Satoshi Nakamoto, who promised to get his money scribe to tidal!!! I decided not to sell my album for another back. — Reuters week. Please subscribe to tidal.” Tidal, the Jay-Z backed streaming service, recently paid Rihanna an undisclosed fee for her latest album, “Anti,” though File photo shows Kanye West the February release was bungled when someone inside her gestures to the audience at the camp leaked it online. Samsung reportedly paid $25 million to unveiling of the Yeezy collection be a part of the campaign. West, who’s married to reality TV and album release for his latest star Kim Kardashian, has been putting tens of millions into his album, ‘The Life of Pablo’. — AP Producer says Grammys doesn’t have Oscars diversity issue

veteran Grammys executive producer says his awards listen to today, not just hip-hop, not just R&B, but all music has show does not have a diversity issue like the Oscars and been influenced and been shaped by African-American cul- Athat it is not fair to compare the two programs. Ahead ture, so I don’t think the same rules apply,” he said. “There of yesterday’s show, news outlets reported that the Grammys wouldn’t be a Grammys show today if it weren’t for the great could be under fire since it planned to pay tribute to white African-American artists who built the culture and wrote the performers such as David Bowie and The Eagles’ Glenn Frey music and we try to reflect that every year. I don’t think it’s fair with live performances, though the legacy of black acts such to level criticism, the same kind of criticism against us that the as Natalie Cole and Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire recent- Oscars are experiencing.” ly passed and were not receiving the same treatment. Ehrlich added that the music and movie industries are like Ken Ehrlich said he first thought of booking a performer to apples and oranges: “They might be the same shape, they honor Cole, but then he watched her 1992 Grammys perform- might get to you in the same form, but they’re entirely differ- ance of her singing in sync with her father, Nat King Cole, who ent art forms and they come from entirely different places.” appeared in video. It was the same year she won album of the Other performers at the Grammys, airing from Staples Center year for “Unforgettable... with Love,” which paid tribute to her in Los Angeles, will include Adele, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, the father with reworked versions of some of his best-known Weeknd, Carrie Underwood and Kendrick Lamar, who is the songs. Ehrlich called the video of the performance “unbeliev- top nominee with 11. Members of the Eagles and Jackson ably touching” and said it will be played at the end of the “In Browne will perform to honor Frey, who died on Jan 18. And Memorium” section of the awards show. Natalie Cole died Dec Lady Gaga, who Ehrlich booked to perform on the show 31. Earth, Wind & Fire - who were set to receive a lifetime before Bowie died, said the pop star asked to sing in tribute to achievement award before White passed - will accept the hon- the icon who died on Jan 10. “She (said) to me, ‘I would really or on live TV, speak about White’s legacy and present one of love to do a David Bowie segment and (I said) to her, ‘Of the top awards, record of the year, Ehrlich said. White died Feb. course. It couldn’t be more appropriate,’” he recalled. The Sisters Tair (center), Liron (left) and Tagel (right) found musical inspiration from women in their family who sang Yemeni 4 and Ehrlich added that there will also be a surprise with Grammys will air live on CBS at 8 pm Eastern. — AP folk songs. — AFP Earth, Wind & Fire. Same rules apply B.B. King, who died last year, will also be honored with a performance tribute by Bonnie Raitt, Gary Clark Jr and Chris Girl band marries hip Stapleton, Ehrlich said. The producer said though the Oscars have received a backlash for a second straight year of all-white acting nominees, the Grammys are not even comparable. “The fact of the matter is popular music is, it came from New hop with ‘Yemenite’ folk Orleans, it came from Memphis, it came from Kansas City, it came from the Islands, it came from Africa, and the music we Three Israeli sisters have built up a passionate fan base at over vast sands after slipping away from chores for an officer home and abroad with music where past meets present with in military uniform sporting a whip, the girls appear in the a twist: A mix of “Yemenite” folk, hip-hop and Arabic. Looking video wearing bright pink veils and singing in an unidentified rather like heroines from the Arabian Nights-apart from the Arabic dialect, before joining a dance session with three boys. tennis shoes-the sisters in traditional embroidered dresses “We wanted people to come to us with an open mind,” said who make up the band A-WA recreate a desert party at their Tair Haim. “We just wrote something like: ‘We are bringing you energetic concerts. “We belong to an ancestral tribe, that of a fresh desert breeze.’” our grandparents who left Yemen to emigrate to Israel,” said Army radio, the most listened to in Israel, helped make Tair Haim, at 32 the oldest of the trio that includes Liron, 30, Habib Galbi a summer hit, a first for a song in Arabic in the and Tagel, 26. Jewish state. Its “la-la-la-la” refrain has turned into a hit at The three sisters grew up in the desert village of Shaharut Israeli marriages, at clubs and on car radios, with enthusiasts in southern Israel, near the borders of Jordan and Egypt, the trying to replicate the girls’ dance moves-blend of folk danc- daughters of an architect and holistic therapist. They found ing and break-dance. their musical inspiration in a past that came alive through the women in their family who sang Yemeni folk songs, an oral ‘Girl Power’ tradition handed down from generation to generation. They Two million Internet views later, A-WA (pronounced “aywa,” were discovered by Israeli musician Tomer Yosef of the band or yes in Arabic) has also attracted a following in the Arab Balkan Beat Box and signed on as the opening act at his con- world, according to the sisters. “It’s incredible that we have so File photo shows Grammy winning singer-songwriter File photo shows David Bowie performs at Chastain Park certs, before they made their own impact on the music scene many fans in the Arab world,” said Liron Haim. In Europe, Natalie Cole poses for a portrait in promotion of her new Amphitheatre in Atlanta. and he became their producer. music festivals and radio stations are also discovering the trio, album “Natalie Cole en Espanol,” in New York. — AP photos “I heard traditional Yemenite music for the first time when I sometimes referred to as an “Israeli-Yemenite choir”. was young, at a henna ceremony,” a tradition at Jewish, Arab “I’ve been involved in the world music scene for 10 years, and Muslim weddings, Tair Haim told AFP. “I started to get and something like them has simply been lacking. I’ve never excited about this tradition. I learned the songs by heart. I seen anything like it,” their producer Yosef told Haaretz news- knew that I wanted to do something with it.” In a secret opera- paper. The three sisters-two of whom live together in Tel Aviv- tion dubbed “Flying Carpet” between 1949 and 1950, nearly have played several gigs in Europe since last summer. “We Emmanuel Lubezki wins all of Yemen’s 45,000 Jews left to the newly-created state of have telepathic moments on stage,” said Liron. “It’s like when Israel, the Haim family included. we were small and we played together.” A-WA is “a world of freedom and love and a combination of styles, old and new, ASC Award for ‘The Revenant’ Return to roots traditional and modern, hip-hop and Yemenite folk, and girl Israel’s cultural scene-not only in music, but also film and power,” Tair said. “But also a world where guys can feel com- mmanuel Lubezki earned top honors at the 30th annu- Wexler and Andrew Lesnie, among others, were acknowl- literature has undergone a recent trend of third-generation fortable in their own skins. It’s a cool and happy world.”—AFP al American Society of Cinematographers Awards at edged for their immense contributions to the craft. John Toll Jewish immigrants from Yemen or Morocco returning to their Ethe Century Plaza hotel on Sunday night for his work in received some of the biggest love of the evening as the roots. In the spring of 2015, A-WA posted an online music “The Revenant.” It was Lubezki’s fourth win in the feature film recipient of the ASC’s Lifetime Achievement Award for his video of “Habib Galbi” (Arabic for “Love of My Heart”), without category from the elite cinematographer organization, and work on such films as “The Thin Red Line,” “Legends of the mentioning they were Israeli Jews. Perched on a jeep cruising his third consecutive triumph. The Mexican-born director of Fall” and “Braveheart,” receiving a standing ovation from the photography, known as “Chivo” to colleagues inside and out- assembled. He thanked such mentors as Jordan Cronenweth, side DP circles, solidifies his frontrunner status in the Oscar adding that “we couldn’t do what we do if we weren’t just a cinematography race, which he also has won the last two little crazy.” years, for “Gravity” and “Birdman,” the latter of which was Geena Davis presented the Governor’s Award to director Long-awaited Charlie Chaplin directed by “Revenant” helmer Alejandro G Inarritu, who also and D.P. favorite Ridley Scott (“The Martian”) for his lush visu- hails from Mexico City. al sensibility on such films as “Blade Runner,” “Alien, In other wins, Vanja Cernjul (“Marco Polo”) bested the “Gladiator” and “Thelma & Louise,” in which she starred. competition in the TV series category, while Pierre Gill In accepting his award, Scott, via a video clip, quoted museum to open in April (“Casanova”) won in the miniseries/pilot category. The fairly Napoleon in stating his case for the cameraman’s role in museum showcasing the life and works of Charlie since 2008, the manor required major renovation work. new Spotlight category, which recognizes work celebrated telling a story visually: “a good sketch is better than a long Chaplin will finally open at his former Swiss home on Chaplin, who died in 1977, is buried in the nearby Corsier-sur- on the festival circuit or in limited release and presented for speech.” Lowell Peterson (“Desperate Housewives,” “Six Feet AApril 17 after more than 15 years of planning, organizers Vevey cemetery along with his wife. The site has been devel- the third year, resulted in a tie between Adam Arkapaw Under”) accepted the Career Achievement in Television announced Monday. The opening of Chaplin’s World in the vil- oped by French museum operator Grevin and will be the fourth (“Macbeth”) and Matyas Erdely (“Son of Saul”). The win also Award from actress Gina Rodriguez (“Jane the Virgin”), noting lage of Corsier-sur-Vevey will come a day after what would international site operated by the group, which runs waxwork places an exclamation point on the narrative surrounding that one of his inspirations as an aspiring D.P. was seeing have been the British screen legend’s 127th birthday. Chaplin museums in Paris, Montreal, Seoul and Prague. — AFP “The Revenant,” which has come to represent as much a Douglas Sirk’s “Written on the Wind” and talking about the spent the last 25 years of his life in Switzerland after he was physical endurance test as it does bravura filmmaking. In deep bond between lensers and actors, going so far as study- barred from the United States in the 1950s over suspicions that shooting the harrowing tale of survival and revenge in and ing facial anatomy in his training. he had communist sympathies, at the height of McCarthy-era around the Louisiana territories of the early 1800s (filming paranoia about Soviet infiltration. actually took place in Canada and Argentina), Lubezki and Winners list: Overlooking Lake Geneva, the large manor where Chaplin Inarritu placed the accent on natural light and absolute Film: lived with his wife Oona and their eight children will form half authenticity in terms of weather and hardship. Lubezki shot “The Revenant” (Emmanuel Lubezki) of the museum, while a separate building will house a digitally, using the relatively new Arri Alexa 65, which uses a Tv, Regular Episode: mocked-up Hollywood studio where visitors can delve into his larger, 65 mm chip for wider image and higher, 6K resolution. “Marco Polo” - “The Fourth Step” (Vanja Cernjul, ASC, HFS) on-screen work. Visitors will also get a glimpse of the artist’s In perhaps a nod to D.P.s-not used to basking in the spot- Tv Movie, Mini-Series Or Pilot: humble beginnings in London and his spectacular rise to light-and their tendency to seize the microphone longer than “Casanova” (Pierre Gill, CSC) become one of the biggest, most influential legends in is customary-a voice on the intercom early on goaded atten- Spotlight Award (Tie): Hollywood history. The project has faced repeated stumbling dees to their tables with, “ladies and gentlemen, please take Adam Arkapaw-”Macbeth” blocks over more than 15 years of drawn-out negotiations. your seats; we only have the room until midnight.” In the first- Matyas Erdely-”Son of Saul”.-Reuters It took seven years to get a building permit, and before that ever memorial tribute in the ceremony’s history, such recent- organizers had to wait five years to settle a lawsuit brought by a ly passed cinematographers as Vilmos Zigmond, Haskell neighbor worried about the implications of the build. Empty West says he’s $53 Million in debt

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2016 39

Members of the public admire the display at the UK Art Lantern Festival, installed at the Trafford Centre in Manchester, northern England, on February 12, 2016, in celebration of the Chinese New Year, which this year marks the beginning of the Year of the Monkey. — AFP When mum and dad go back to rock school...

t is every teenager’s worst nightmare-or so you would have ‘It’s cool, Dad’ thought. Mum and dad up on stage belting out rock It also helps that many rock standards have only three Ianthems in front of your friends. The horror! A few days chords, though as Domnarski said, “it is all about how you play before they face the toughest audience imaginable-their chil- them”. The experience has also turned the usual parent-child dren-the graduates of what is touted as the world’s first rock relationships on their head. “I admit I’m scared,” said Chabert- class for parents are joking about what’s the more nerve- Marcon, an Internet company boss. “But my kids who have wracking, this or childbirth. done it all before keep telling me, ‘Dad, it’s fine, you’ll see.’” “Can’t you see me shaking?” said Philippe Chabert-Marcon, Bass player Luc Heinrich, a complete musical novice, knew he whose 11 and 12-year-olds are already veterans of Paris’ Park was hitting the groove when his son winked at him as he Slope Rock School. But it is too late. The tickets have been sold passed the bedroom door as he practiced. “That was priceless,” for their first gig at a hip venue in the French capital. he said. To pile on the pressure, British pop star Jarvis Cocker is in the audience, one of several musicians to have enrolled their children in the school. Yet when the moment comes, their kids are on their feet with everyone else as the parents tear into “Born to be Wild”. “Wow! They were really great,” shouts nine- year-old Matthew Langlois who had performed earlier on the bill, awe-struck by his mother Michelle, who said she hasn’t sung with such abandon since she stood in front of the mirror as a teenager. Struggling to be heard above the cheers, Langlois, 48, said, “It’s a real high. I still can’t believe how far we’ve come.” When the group was put together less than four months before, only two band members could really play their instruments. And as Chabert-Marcon, also 48, admits, his “electric guitar has been gathering dust in the basement for nearly 30 years”.

Can’t believe their ears But all had seen how their children started playing from the very first day at Park Slope Rock School, founded in Brooklyn by American musician Jason Domnarski in 2008 before he opened a branch in the French capital three years later. At first Langlois could not believe her eyes, nor her ears. “The kids came home playing straight away ,” she said. “It is not at all how music teaching used to be. So I thought, ‘Why should they have all the fun?’” Laura Malone, on flute and lead Students of the Park guitar, had the same reaction. “After I saw my daughter play in The same basic rules apply for children and adults, Slope Rock School per- her band and saw the way Jason worked with the kids, the Domnarski insists. “It is about working as a team and sharing form on stage at La first thing I thought was ‘Why didn’t this exist when I was ideas and learning how to power through the nerves to get on Bellevilloise concert young?’” stage and perform in front of hundreds of people. It’s an hall. — AFP photos And so five parents on the wrong side of 40 came knocking amazing experience.” For Langlois and the others, playing in a on Domnarski’s door asking if he could do for them what he band has been a revelation. “I have tried to be a runner three had done for their kids. “I thought why not,” Domnarski said, or four times, but I never got the runner’s high. “But doing this though he admits that he doubted if they would adapt to his gets the adrenaline pumping and that emotional connection mould-breaking approach as well as their children. “I thought back to your teenage years, to goofing with the cassette they might be more worried about making mistakes, but they recorder with your friends,” he said. “You put that all away have been amazing from the get-go and so supportive of when you become an adult. When you get to be 40, you say each other.” Malone-a computer programmer who had never ‘OK, I am never going to be Madonna, I’m never going to the played guitar before-said the “dynamics of being in the band Olympics, and it’s all kids and school and downhill from here.’ helps get you over hurdles” that you might baulk at alone. But it doesn’t need to be like that...”. — AFP “The band has built this amazing bond just from practicing together for an hour and a half a week. I would never had Students of the Park Slope Rock School perform on stage. believed it had I not seen it myself.”

Students of the Park Slope Rock School wait before performing on stage. Students of the Park Slope Rock School perform on stage.