Iran’s Foreign Ministry An Iranian Oil Official Says That a Announced the Release of Contract Between Iran and China Two Kuwaiti Nationals Who To Develop the Iranian Yadavaran Had Been Recently Arrested for Oilfield Has Been Stopped “Illegal” Entry Into Iranian Waters

VOL. XXV, No. 6666 TEHRAN Price 20,000 Rials www.irannewsdaily.com SATURDAY, MAY 4, - ORDIBEHESHT 14, 1398 2 4 8 DOMESTIC 3 DOMESTIC INTERNATIONAL SPORTS Iran Cooperation Warded Iran to Increase Maduro Exhorts Chelsea Set Record, Venezuela Military to Off Disintegration of Iraq Gas Exports Fight Any Coup Plotter Arsenal Register Big Win > SEE PAGE 2 > SEE PAGE 3 > SEE PAGE 4 > SEE PAGE 8 Iran Needs No Permission to viewPoint Boost Defense Capabilities Impossible to Eliminate By: Hamid Reza Naghashian..... TEHRAN (MNA) - President Hassan Rouhani said that INSTEX Not to Be Operationalized Iran needs defense equipment and seeks no permission from any other country to strengthen its defense capabilities. Iran From Oil Market Unless London Wants He made the remarks late on Wednesday in Kermanshah An especial-purpose vehicle and mechanism for province Administrative Council and added, “The enemy facilitating the trade or financial interactions between is seeking to induce tough and hard conditions in the small businesses of Iran and EU was established in country while it has false imaginations in this regard.” January 2019 by France, Germany and the United The country and government belong to people, he said, adding, Kingdom but so far no serious measure has been taken “government makes its utmost efforts to render quality services by EU to operationalize the mechanism. to the noble nation of Islamic Iran. Today, we are witnessing Suppose we accept this definition of the EU that the unity and amity among all walks of life in the country.” Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX) Enemies have dragged the country to an all-out economic and is an especial-purpose vehicle (SPV) to facilitate the psychological war and people also know that their government non-oil trade with Iran against the U.S. sanctions which has not been the initiator of this economic war waged by the was established in January 2019 by France, Germany United States against the country, Rouhani emphasized. “As and the United Kingdom. The SPV is headquartered in we did not allow the enemy to occupy an iota of our land and Paris, France, and is headed by German national Per territory during the eight years of Sacred Defense [Iraqi Fischer, who formerly served as Head of Financial imposed war against Iran in 1980-1988], today, the government Institutions at Commerzbank, between 2003 and 2014. will move the country out of difficulties successfully with the The SPV was aimed at preparing the ground for unity and amity of people,” Rouhani added. saving normal financial activities between European He pointed to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action small medium-sized enterprises with Iran and in the (JCPOA) and said, “landmark nuclear deal was inked first step, it was to cover medicines and food trades. between Iran and six world’s major powers on Jan. 16, The head of the SPV Mr. Fischer went to London last 2016. The Islamic Republic of Iran has not violated the week to talk with British businessmen, traders and deal and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has financial institutes to find legal mechanisms and repeatedly reiterated that Iran has fully lived up all its grounds for launching the SPV, and ways to lessen commitments within the framework of JCPOA .” fears of British businessmen from the U.S. reactions. In a meeting with the British commercial companies IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK and officials in London, he presented an explanation on Will Never Sit for New Round the function of the system and addressed concerns of the British companies in doing business with Iran. TEHRAN - Secretary-General of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Mohammed The meeting was held on the initiative of the UK Of Talks under Pressure Sanusi Barkindo says it is not possible to exclude Iran from the oil market. Department for International Trade and the British Barkindo, who was in Tehran to attend the 24th International Oil, Gas, Refining and Petrochemical Exhibition, Iranian Chamber of Commerce. TEHRAN (IFP) - Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for noted that there is no unilateral decision in the OPEC. In London, Fischer said that he was there to develop Political Affairs Seyed Abbas Araqchi says the He further mentioned that the Islamic Republic had faced similar issues in the past years and “I am sure it can interactions between the INSTEX and British banks American officials are exerting further pressure on Iran overcome these challenges.” and business institutes, adding that he was happy to to force it into sitting for a new round of talks to achieve Iran has never forgotten its people. Iran is a hero in terms of diversifying its energy sources, he said. say that the INSTEX was seriously seeking to what they deem to be a better nuclear deal, but Iran ‘I congratulate Iranian people for displaying integrity at the time of floods and gathered women and children in conduct the first trade exchange with its similar would never do so under pressure. certain areas to help the flood-affected. Iranian company in the shortest time possible despite Addressing a Turkish think tank in Ankara, the Iranian ‘You can confront natural disasters and I hope you will be successful to confront environmental challenges. existing challenges. See Page 7 diplomat described the U.S. policy towards Iran as ‘Iran is one of OPEC founding members and has been cooperating with the organization for over 60 year. I am ridiculous and said the Americans should know that the 28th OPEC secretary general and the first OPEC secretary general was Iranian. Iran will never sit for talks under pressure. ‘Mr. Zangeneh is the longest lasting oil minister in OPEC and I have met with him times and times because of “The Americans seek a better deal through exerting his experiences. Zangeneh is a supporter and fan of OPEC over decades and has played a significant role in the India Eyes Guyana as pressure on Iran to sit for a new round of talks. They quit a cooperation of OPEC and non-OPEC producers. treaty to make another one and this is ridiculous,” he said. ‘I consulted with Mr. Zangeneh prior to the 2016 historical OPEC statement. According to Araqchi, the U.S. is desperately trying to ‘We enjoy the expert cooperation of Iranian experts at OPEC secretariat that are streamlined by Mr. Hossein Iran Oil Supplies End push Iran into quitting the JCPOA. “They first withdrew Kazempour Ardebili. from the nuclear deal and then re-imposed their sanctions ‘Iran is one of the key energy centers in the world and enjoys the largest oil and gas reserves in the world.’ NEW DELHI (Dispatches) - Faced with U.S. sanctions on the Islamic Republic. Now, they have decided not to “Over the 60 years after the launch of OPEC, we have faced many problems, but the unity of member states has on one of its top suppliers Iran, India is charting new re-issue waivers for main importers of Iran’s oil to drive always helped us. If we can preserve this unity, we can overcome the challenges again,” he said on Thursday. geographies to meet its energy needs. The world’s third-largest oil importer is looking to secure an interest down Iran’s oil exports to zero.” See Page 7 He further underlined that he was concerned about differences among OPEC members, stating that “Iran’s challenge does not just concern this country; it also impacts OPEC as a whole and what happens to Iran, in Guyana’s oilfields that are being hailed as one of the Libya and Venezuela would influence the market and the oil industry.” See Page 7 world’s largest oil finds in recent times. A six-month sanctions waiver for India and seven other countries to continue importing oil from Iran Uptick in Iran-Pakistan Ties expired on Thursday, effectively shutting out Iranian crude beginning 3 May. After Recent Diplomatic Efforts Europe Tries to Sidestep the U.S. Finance System There is a growing interest in Guyana after ExxonMobil, one of the world’s largest publicly-traded ISLAMABAD (Dispatches) – Pakistan’s Foreign Minister LONDON (Bloomberg)-The standoff between the Trump administration and Iran is escalating, and Europe is energy firms, announced an estimated reserve of more Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Thursday apprised lawmakers caught in the middle. The U.S. is exerting pressure through renewed economic sanctions, and hardliners in than five billion oil-equivalent barrels in the offshore of recent developments in Pakistan’s ties with Iran, saying Tehran are issuing fiery threats of retaliation. Stabroek block in the South American country. The they had recently seen an uptick following the sharing of Brussels and national governments in the U.K., France and Germany, meanwhile, have been criticized by both sides for expectations have also swelled because Guyana information regarding developments at the border and the promising to preserve trade with Iran while also treading softly with the Americans to avoid a full-blown diplomatic crisis. borders Venezuela, which has one of the world’s prime minister’s visit to Tehran. Europeans “speak eloquently”, Iran’s foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said in February. “They also need to walk the walk.” biggest oil reserves. Qureshi, speaking to MNAs on the floor of the National But it would be wrong to dismiss Europe’s efforts as hopeless. “We have an opportunity in Guyana. Exxon has Assembly, said that some governments don’t want positive A big source of contention for both Washington and Tehran is Instex, a special-purpose vehicle unveiled by recently found a major oilfield there. It is going to turn relations between Pakistan and Iran. “Geopolitics comes into Paris, Berlin and London in January. Its ultimate ambitions are bold: To keep trade between Iran and Europe the tables around and make Guyana one of the major the mix,” he said. “There are many elements involved who going without relying on cross-border financial transactions (which might fall foul of the U.S.). While not producers,” said an Indian government official, don’t wish matters to improve, so now and then there is some explicitly a sanctions-busting vehicle, it was clearly designed with President Trump in mind. It was his requesting anonymity. sort of incident and they try to breed misunderstandings re-imposition of the U.S. trade ban that led to Iranian banks being cut off from the SWIFT banking network, and India’s move comes against the backdrop of the between Iran and Pakistan,” Qureshi explained. “Our to international businesses scrapping their investment plans in the Islamic Republic. need to find alternative sources of energy at a time government has tried to remove these misunderstandings.” By using Instex like a central clearing house, the idea would be that buyers and sellers in Iran and Europe could get when it needs to procure a total of about 12 million The foreign minister pointed out that some MNAs may their money without making transfers into and out of the Middle East country. It’s a complicated system, but in a very tonnes of extra crude over the year to urgently already know that Iran and some other regional Muslim simplified form you could imagine having a European trader who wants to buy gas from an Iranian supplier and a bridge a supply gap that will be caused by the exit countries have a sensitive relationship, while “they have good European manufacturer who wants to sell aircraft parts to an Iranian company. Instead of the trader paying the Iranians of Iran from its energy basket. Apart from Iran, the ties with us”. “It’s a delicate balance that we have to maintain, for the gas, they would transfer the money to their fellow European manufacturer (in lieu of payment from its Iranian customer). Donald Trump administration has imposed and the House must understand those sensitivities and At the same time, the Iranian aircraft company would pay its compatriot gas supplier for the supplies sent to Europe. sanctions on Venezuela’s state-owned oil firm concerns,” the foreign minister said. See Page 7 Hence no cross-border money flows. See Page 7 Petróleos de Venezuela SA. See Page 7 2 IRAN NEWS DOMESTIC SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019

TEHRAN - The EU is trying to support the continued involvement of private European companies in the oil, gas and petrochemical sector of Iran, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Iran Jacques Werner said. He noted that European private companies have their own trade European Private Companies to Be Supported in Iran Trade programs and solutions. Werner added that the task of EU embassies and officials is to help these companies and ensure that they continue their cooperation with Iran. Iran Cooperation Warded Websites Review Off Disintegration of Iraq Oil For Goods, Investments TASNIM* - Foreign companies can choose to receive crude oil instead of hard currencies for the IRAN NEWS NATIONAL DESK goods they sell to Iran, the CEO of Iranian National Oil Company said. Masoud Karbasian asserted, “There is a possibility for foreigners, who are inclined to deal with Iran, to TEHRAN - Iran’s defense minister says if it weren’t for Iran’s invest in the country’s oil development sector and cooperation, Iraq would have been disintegrated by ill-wishers receive crude in return for their commercial venture,” Karbasian reiterated. and enemies of peace and security. Retaliating, the Islamic Republic Minister of Oil, Brigadier General Amir Hatami made the remarks in a Thursday meeting with Bijan Namdar Zangeneh maintained on Wednesday, commanders of the Iraqi Navy, Air Force and air defense units. May 1, that Iran is exploring new ways of selling oil, He also touched upon the current political-security situation in the Middle adding, “We have agreed on new ways, but should East region and across the world, calling for closer collaboration between study their process.” Tehran and Baghdad. “The threats and opportunities facing the two countries make it all the more against terrorism in Iraq and Syria. With this move, they intended to prevent the trend necessary for their military and state officials to hold further consultations in order to of political-security stabilization in Iraq and Syria, and care should be taken in that Persian Lion Returns to Iran secure the interests of both nations and boost economic growth and development of regard,” he noted. the two countries and ensure stability and security in the region,” said the top general. He said Iran-Iraq defence cooperation will ensure balance, peace, stability and IRIB* - Iran lost its last Asiatic or Persian lion almost He said a heavy price has been paid to ensure stability and security in the region. security in the region. 80 years ago, and it became extinct in the country due to “The blood of faithful, dedicated and patriotic Iranian and Iraqi youth guarantees “The two countries are determined to boost mutual relations,” he said. indiscriminate hunting and habitat loss, but the lion is the stability and security of both countries,” said the top general. In the meeting, Iraqi military top brass expressed content over their visit to Iran, now back home. Elsewhere in his remarks, he touched upon Washington’s putting Iran’s Islamic stressing the need to further reinforce bilateral defence cooperation based on the Under a new project, a Persian Lion has been sent from Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) on the list of terrorist groups. principle of good neighborliness as well as political, security, religious and social Britain’s Bristol Zoo to save the rare cat by reproducing it “Calling the IRGC a terror group by the US was in revenge for the IRGC’s actions bonds between the two countries in conformity with the interests of both nations. in the country. Born in Britain six years ago on Christmas day, the male lion named Kamran, a son of Kamal, arrived in Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Airport on Wednesday night, and was sent to the Tehran Zoo. Iran Missile Program “National Defense Issue” A Persian lioness will also arrive soon from Ireland to help re-introduce the world’s last ranging population of NEW YORK (IRNA) - ran’s permanent envoy to the Responding to a visit by the U.S. Special explain why it withdrew from the nuclear deal and Persian lion to their original habitat. United Nations reaffirmed that the country’s missile Representative for Iran, Brian Hook, to New York for violated the Resolution 2231, as the deal was a part of Seyyed Mohammad Reza Parhizkar, the head of program is non-negotiable and Tehran will not retreat mobilizing UN Security Council members against the Resolution and Washington’s pull-out from the deal Tehran Zoo, says “Our main goal is to try to from its stance on the program as it is a matter of Iran’s missile program, Majid Takht-e Ravanchi said was a blatant violation of the Resolution 2231. ‘In the re-introduce this species firstly to help the generation national defense. Thursday, ‘In a statement we announced our stances. statement the U.S. Secretary of State has issued on the of this animal and, secondly, to make people acquainted Our missiles are by no means subject to the Resolution visit of the official to New York, the Resolution 2231 with our country’s wildlife.” 2231. The Resolution that was proposed and ratified by and the nuclear deal have not been mentioned, and this On the return of these lions to Iran, Parhizkar said the U.S. itself and other countries stipulates that only is evidence that they are misleading others, but they due to the membership of the Tehran Zoo in the Union the missiles that are designed for carrying nuclear will get nowhere,’ he said. Iran Never to Accept U.S. of European Zoos (EAZA) these lions are returned warheads are forbidden.’ Iran’s stances are absolutely clear, he said adding that under the program of proliferation and maintenance of The permanent representative added that the Iranian the country is in contact with the opposed members of Illogical Demands endangered species. missiles are not meant for such a purpose and Tehran the Security Council. ‘The missile issue is a matter of has repeatedly announced and clarified the issue. national defense, and therefore, it will not be negotiable, The 14 reports issued by the International Atomic and there is no contradiction between the program and TORBAT HIDARIYE (IRNA) - Majlis Energy Agency (IAEA) are evidences that Iran’s Resolution 2231 whatsoever,’ the Iranian permanent No Fuel Price Hike Speaker Ali Larijani said on Thursday that the nuclear activities are peaceful, Takht-e Ravanchi said. representative to the UN said. Islamic Republic of Iran will never accept the U.S. The issue raised by Washington is not legitimate at Hook has convened a meeting with the Security ISNA* - Iran’s Deputy Oil Minister for Legal and illogical demands. all, he said adding that this was the U.S. that had to Council members on Iran’s missile program. Parliamentary Affairs Shojaeddin Bazargani has said that ‘The U.S. has trampled upon the internationally so far no announcement has been made about implementing recognized JCPOA and has set 12 preconditions to quotas or gasoline price increase. revive the JCPOA, but admission of their call Tehran Welcomes Tashkent Policy “The government will make the decisions about leaves no dignity for Iranian people,’ he said. gasoline prices, so any decision would be announced No one should ask ‘us to admit the U.S. illogical For Reviving Islamic Civilization publicly. Until then all the news in social media on the demands as their move will bring the Iranian nation subject aren’t reliable,” he said. humility, so we have no option except resistance’, TEHRAN (MNA) – Head of Iran’s Foreign Policy Iran attaches great He noted that the oil ministry is waiting for the Larijani said. Strategic Council Kamal Kharrazi hailed Uzbekistan importance to its government to make a decision. Incapable U.S. administrators will be forced to accept policy for the revitalization of Islamic civilization. relationship with its “In the process of decision making the oil ministry Iran’s call and this requires resistance, but if ‘we lose Islamic Republic of Iran and Uzbekistan should neighbors, he said, would announce its expert view but the final decision patience, they will step forward and treat us’ like Saudi recognize their common cultural identity and build their adding, “Iran strives to maker is the government, while the National Iranian Oil Arabia, he said. ‘We are now experiencing a very tough modern civilization based on it, he added. broaden its relationship Refining and Distribution Company and National Iranian situation, but we should change the current He made the remarks in his meeting with Uzbek with neighboring Oil Products Distribution Company will be the initiators circumstances through empowering our economy to Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Kamilov in Tashkent, countries in line with of fuel and energy decisions,” he explained. attain self-dependency,’ he said. Uzbekistan on Thursday. spreading stability and Bazargani indicated that the oil ministry has not security in the region.” received any announcement from the government about The relationship increasing the price or creating quotas. between the two “In case of any decision by the government, it would be SECOND ANNOUNCEMENT PERMIT NO : 1398.624 countries is on the announced on the government’s official website,” he said. growth and development NATIONAL IRANIAN SOUTH OILFIELDS COMPANY AHVAZ-IRAN track, Kharrazi added. Iran and Uzbekistan Air Force Capability Unique TENDER NO.: 08-21-9740010 enjoy a rich cultural and civilization MEHR* - Commander of the Iranian Army’s Ground NATIONAL IRANIAN SOUTH OILFIELDS COMPANY ( NISOC) INTENDS TO PURCHASE THE FOLLOWING GOODS: heritage, he said, adding, “when different Uzbek Forces Brigadier General Kiomars Heidari said that air cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara and force of the Islamic Republic of Iran is an undisputed ITEMS MATERIAL DESCRIPTION QUANTITY Khwarazm are listed, we observe that each of power in the Middle East region. these cities was home to distinguished and He made the remarks on Thursday in his meeting with CASING, API GRADE L-80 , SEAMLESS “VAM” FJL “THREAD,RANGE 3(MAX LEN: 40.5FT) AS PER API 5CT/ISO11960 outstanding scientists.” the commanders of Iraqi Army Aviation commanders here 01 MARKING : COLD DIE STAMPED IN ACCORDANCE WITH API 5CT SIZE (OD) , WEIGHT (PPF) , AS SPECIFIED NOTE : LEVEL OF 6000LE INSPECTION : 1(L,O,I:1) “ QCP/MPS DOCUMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL TO REVIEW & CONFIRM “ ITP DOCUMENTS IS ESSENTIAL Elsewhere in his remarks, Kharrazi touched upon the in Tehran. FOR TECHNICAL EVALUATION REF , PT CITRA OR APPROVED EQUIVALENT 5 IN.18PPF , VFJL way of construction of road and rail infrastructures The two sides exchanged their views on issues of

CASING, API GRADE P-110 , SEAMLESS “VAM” FLUSH JOINT “THREAD,RANGE 3(MAX LEN: 40.5FT) AS PER API 5CT/ between the two countries and proposed, “setting up an mutual interest. 02 ISO11960 , PSL I:2 SIZE(OD) , WEIGHT (PPF) . AS SPECIFIED MARKING : COLD DIE STAMPED IN ACCORDANCE WITH API 5CT 2000LE airline, which can connect capitals of the two countries Air Force of the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to SIZE (OD) , WEIGHT (PPF) , AS SPECIFIED NOTE : LEVEL OF INSPECTION : 1(L,O,I:1) “ QCP/MPS DOCUMENTS ARE ESSENTIAL TO REVIEW & CONFIRM “ ITP DOCUMENTS IS ESSENTIAL FOR TECHNICAL EVALUATION 5 IN.18PPF , VAM FLUSH JOINT directly, is essential.” cooperate with Iraqi side, he said, adding, “Iran’s Air For his part, Uzbek Foreign Minister Abdulaziz Force has attained self-sufficiency in all areas and has Participate ” letter via fax to the following number along with their resume according to qualitative assessment Form no. 2, available at www.nisoc.ir not later than 14 days after the second announcement, otherwise, their requests for Participation in the tender will be disregarded.The applicants should Kamilov pointed to the amicable ties between Iran high capabilities and potentials to establish cooperation have relevant background in supplying the required goods and capability to provide and submit a bid bond of 163,312 EURO or 7,824,612,302 RIAl in and Uzbekistan and said that a brief look to the with Iraqi Army Aviation in technical and training fields, favor of NISOC. Tender documents including the materials thorough technical specifications and Qualitative Assessment Forms can be accessed vie: history of the two countries shows that Iran and organizing training courses for Iraqi pilots, and www.nisoc.ir-material procurement management tab Uzbekistan are on the considerable development manufacturing specific helicopter weapons.” NO ADVANCE PAYMENT WILL BE PAID and growth track. Joint and long borders between Iran and Iraq have To prevent regional threats and hazards, a created a religious and cultural link between the two FOREIGN PURCHASING DEPARTMENT comprehensive roadmap should be formulated countries, he said, adding, “Iran is also ready to Bldg, No. 104, Material Procurement Management Complex kouy-e-Fadaeian Islam (New Site) , Ahwaz, Iran between the two countries, he said, adding, Uzbekistan cooperate with Iraq in the fight against global Tel / NO.: +98-61-34123455 Fax No.: +98-61-34457437 is ready to cooperate with Iran to establish security arrogance for the restoration of security and stability Public Relations: WWW.NISOC.IR WWW.SHANA.IR http://IETS.MPORG.IR and stability in the region. in the region.” SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 DOMESTIC IRAN NEWS 3

Noon (Zohr) 13:01 37. And a Sign for them is the Night: Evening (Maghreb) 20:12 We withdraw therefrom the Day, and behold they are plunged in darkness; PRAYER TIME 38. And the sun runs his course for a period determined for him: Tomorrow’s Dawn (Fajr) 04:33 that is the decree of (Him), the Exalted in Might, the All-Knowing. Surah 36. Ya-sin ( 37 - 38 ) Tomorrow’s Sunrise 06:08

Iran to Increase Iran Oil Production To Continue Strongly Gas Exports TEHRAN (Shana) - An Iranian Oil Deputy Petroleum Minister said the country’s oil production was ongoing IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK strongly without any disruptions except for recent flash floods in certain oil-rich regions. Speaking on the sidelines of the 24th Iran Oil Show, TEHRAN - Iran is about to raise gas exports to neighboring Iraq Masoud Karbasian said that the showcase displayed Iran’s industrial capabilities in the oil and gas sector. to 35 million cubic meters a day this year, head of the National The 24th Iran International Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Iranian Gas Company (NIGC) Hassan Montazer Torbati said. Exhibition (Iran Oil Show) kicked off on Wednesday, May 01, and will continue until May 04. “Last year we exported gas to Turkey, Baghdad and Basra with an average of over Karbasian who is also the CEO of the National 40 million cubic meters a day, and this year, gas exports to Iraq will reach more than Iranian Oil Company (NIOC), said he was optimistic 35 million cubic meters per day,” he told a news conference in Tehran. about the future of trade ties between Iran and China. Torbati also said Iran’s gas refinery and transmission capacity will reach more than a dues. However, “we are considering cooperation with Turkmenistan for gas imports Karbasian stated that trade ties between Iran and China billion cubic meters a day by the end of the current Iranian year on February 20, 2020. either by state or private sectors.” NIGC registered 750 million cubic meters of gas was positive and problem-solving, adding, “I hope that the Iran is currently increasing gas exports to a number of countries including Turkey, transmission record last calendar year (which ended on March 20), the official said. bilateral ties would not be influenced by U.S. threats.” Iraq, Armenia and Azerbaijan, officials say. “This year, the volume can cross 900 mcm.” “I am optimistic about the future of trade ties between Torbati said in March Turkey, which depends on gas-fired plants for nearly Torbati further added that Iran’s gas exports to Turkey, Baghdad and Basra reached Iran and China,” the official added. 40 percent of its electricity, had requested to purchase more natural gas from Iran. 40 mcm/d on average last calendar year. Iran’s gas exports to neighboring Iraq will The 24th Iran International Oil, Gas and Petrochemical Turkey is currently a key importer of Iranian natural gas, with 11 billion cubic cross 35 mcm/d this year, he went on to add. Exhibition (Iran Oil Show) kicked off on Wednesday, meters shifted along the Tabriz-Ankara pipeline annually. On increasing the price of gas in the country, he said that the company does not May 01, and will continue until May 04. Montazer Torbati said NIGC was planning to start liquefied natural gas (LNG) intend to increase the price, adding that one of the priorities of the company is to feed exports in the coming years. the petrochemical companies. On the Oil Show, he said that holding such exhibitions The official said that NIGC, supported by powerful domestic contractors, could step is one of the suitable ways to confront the U.S. sanctions because it can put on display in major projects in neighboring countries. national capabilities for foreigners. He said Iran had not made a final decision as to sue Pakistan for the gas pipeline. Torbati also said that by 3 years, the whole country will come under coverage of gas AIC Chief Calls for Reform “We are fully ready to export natural gas to Pakistan; maybe the recent meetings by supply and Iran will be the first whose territory is fully under gas supply coverage. officials of the two countries pave the ground for gas exports,” he said. He also added that the company is pursuing joint investment with Azerbaijan for And Observing Portfolio He said NIGC was not in agreement with Turkmenistan over the amount of their transfer of gas to Europe.

New Steel Mill Tehran, Damascus Can Overcome Sanctions by Developing Trade Ties TEHRAN (IRNA) - The head Eldbash said: ‘The relations of the Syria’s Chamber of between Tehran and Damascus Starts Operation Industry, said on Wednesday are in a good level in most that Tehran and Damascus are areas,’ he added. ‘It is necessary under the influence of cruel to try to develop more and more TEHRAN (IRNA) - President Hassan Rouhani sanctions and it is possible to trade relations.’ opened on Wednesday a new steel company with get rid of sanctions by The Syrian official stated that nominal capacity of 250,000 tons a year and developing economic relations. the relations between Tehran IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK creating 600 jobs. Addressing the Iranian-Syrian and Damascus are in a good First phase of the Bisotoun Steel Company, in the Trade, Economic Conference in level in most areas and TEHRAN - The CEO of Asia Insurance Company west of Iran, was inaugurated on Wednesday by Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the development of Iran has urged all representatives of the Iranian President Rouhani who is on a visit to the Industry, Mining and Agriculture, of business relations. company and officials to observe the combination western Kermanshah province. Samer-al-Dabs noted on Syrian ambassador to Tehran of the company’s portfolio. The mill’s first phase, that includes smelting and Wednesday, ‘The development Adnan Mahmoud, also Speaking in the annual general assembly of the casting units, has a nameplate capacity of 250,000 of economic, and commercial relations between the two considered the holding of the economic, trade conference Center for Syndicates of Representatives of Asia tons per year. The Bisotoun Steel Company is set to countries can help expand cooperation in various fields. refelects the serious determination of the two sides to Insurance Company, Mr. Masoud Badin urged the have a Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) unit as well as a “Syrian government is making best efforts to facilitate develop trade and economic relations and went on to say, representatives and the officials to observe the 15-megawatt power station in the near future. the transfer of Iranian goods to the country, and will “Now it is necessary to create a strategic economic combination of the portfolio and to avoid focusing The company will add 250,000 tons of steel to pursue to remove high tariffs for Iranian goods,” the partnership between Iran and Syria in order to meet the only on third party insurance and called for Iran’s annual output that increased 7.1% during the Syrian official said. interests of the two countries.” boosting other types of insurance services. first three months of 2019, according to the World Samer-al-Dabs emphasized that Iran has been and He added, ‘There is now a new era for Syria, and priority Felicitating participants for electing the new presiding Steel Association (worldsteel). remains Syrian’s friend and brother and has been along is the development of economic activities during this board for the center and praising the former members Iranian steel mills produced a total of 6.22 million with this country in all problems, and highlighted, period, and the continued emphasis on the presence and of the board, he highlighted the performance of the tons of crude steel during the first quarter of 2019, ‘Today, at the time of reconstruction, we will pay participation of the private sector of Iran at this stage.” company in the past year. up 7.1% compared with the corresponding period special attention to the presence of Iranians and The senior Syrian diplomat emphasized the presence Badin noted that most targets of the company in the of 2018, the report shows. prioritize the presence of Iranian companies.’ of the Iranian private sector for the reconstruction of last Iranian calendar year have been materialized Iran is currently ranked 11th between Italy and The head of the Syria’s Chamber of Industry Syria and said that reconstruction of the infrastructure, especially in the technical field, then reviewed the Taiwan with 6.28 million and 5.81 million tons of underlined that the Iranians can move through the buildings and other parts of the country should be done major activities and measures of Asia Insurance crude steel production respectively. country to export goods to other countries and transfer with the help of Iranians. Company last year and pointed to the company’s This steel company that has been constructed with an their goods to Syria and also expressed his interest in The Syrian ambassador referred to insufficient programs for the current year. investment of nearly $155 million (based on the launching an exhibition to familiarize Iranian knowledge of the two sides private sectors about each He also pointed to the strong financial capabilities of official exchange rate of 42,000 rials). businessmen with the Syrian side, as well as expressing other as a factor in the lack of promotions of the the company in the past year and expressed hope that Iranian steel industry created some 1,500 jobs. readiness for holding Iranian exhibitions in Syria. economic relations, saying that it is necessary to this trend would continue in the current year through an promote the recognition of the two countries with the accurate planning and cooperation of colleagues in the holding of exhibitions. Trade and Economic Conference sales network of the company. of Iran and Syria Republic commenced in the venue of Badin also called for reform in the combination of the Iranian Chamber of Commerce this morning. the portfolio of the company and its observance by SECOND ANNOUNCEMENT PERMIT NO : 1398.626 According to Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization of all representatives. He then urged the representatives Iran, Tehran-Damascus have increased its trade turnover of the company to focus on the portfolio rather than NATIONAL IRANIAN SOUTH OILFIELDS COMPANY AHVAZ-IRAN from $ 125 million in 2013 to $ 185 million in 2017. focusing on one service like third party insurance. TENDER NO.: 08-21-9240036

NATIONAL IRANIAN SOUTH OILFIELDS COMPANY ( NISOC) INTENDS TO PURCHASE THE FOLLOWING GOODS: NIDC’s Active Presence in Social Responsibilities ITEMS MATERIAL DESCRIPTION QUANTITY IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK

CASING, API GRADE I-80 , SEAMLESS “VAM” “N.VAM “OR” SEC” TEHRAN – The CEO of National Iranian Drilling Company says efficiency in the operations is 01 THREAD , RANGE 3 (MAX LEN:40.5FT) AS PER API 5CT/ISO11960 SIZE (OD) , WEIGHT (PPF) , AS 1600LE SPECIFIED MARKING : COLD DIE STAMPED IN ACCORDANCE WITH API 5CT 7 IN. 35 PPF DRIFT : 5.875 IN. the major objective of the company for the current year, and meeting demands of the flood-hit people of Khouzestan Province is its priority of observing its social responsibilities. Vendors who intend to participate in aforesaid tenders are requested to send their “Intention To Participate ” letter via fax to the Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the 2th International Oil Show in Tehran, following number along with their resume according to qualitative assessment Form no. 2, available at www.nisoc.ir not later than Eng. Seyed Abdollah Mousavi hailed the studious personnel of the company in meeting the 14 days after the second announcement, otherwise, their requests for Participation in the tender will be disregarded. demands of the national oil industry and their efforts during recent floods which inflicted heavy The applicants should have relevant background in supplying the required goods and capability to provide and submit a bid bond damages on the cities and villages. He went on to say that the company in compliance with the oil minister’s of 61,784 EURO or 3,047,000,000 RIAl in favor of NISOC. emphasis has had effective presence in helping the flood-hit regions by mobilizing its staff and equipment. Tender documents including the materials thorough technical specifications and Qualitative Assessment Forms can be accessed vie: Mousavi noted that over 700 experts of the company were involved in helping the flood-hit regions. He reiterated www.nisoc.ir-material procurement management tab that the whole company has covered support and help in an area around 100 kilometers on the shores of Karoon, NO ADVANCE PAYMENT WILL BE PAID Karkheh and Dez rivers. He added that the staff of the company in the operational sector have drilled seven oil and gas wells and registered about 20,000 meters long drilling in the oil fields from March 21 to end of April. FOREIGN PURCHASING DEPARTMENT Mousavi asserted that activities for drilling machines in some areas have come on a halt due to the floods. Bldg, No. 104, Material Procurement Management Complex kouy-e-Fadaeian Islam (New Site) , Ahwaz, Iran Tel / NO.: +98-61-34123455 Fax No.: +98-61-34457437 He also pointed to other aids and activities of the company for observing its social responsibilities for the flood-hit areas like offering medical services, distribution of medicine, distributing warm food, mineral water and hygienic Public Relations: WWW.NISOC.IR WWW.SHANA.IR http://IETS.MPORG.IR items, adding that the company is now fully prepared for implementing its drilling projects. 4 IRAN NEWS INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019

Russian, U.S. Top Bashir to Face Quetioning Diplomats to Meet on May 6 Over Financing Terror MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov may KHARTOUM (Dispatches) - Sudan’s prosecutor general on Thursday ordered meet U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on May 6 in Finland, RIA the questioning of deposed president Omar al-Bashir over money-laundering and “financing terrorism”, as protesters staged a vast rally in Khartoum to news agency reported on Thursday citing a Russian official. demand a civilian government. Sergei Ryabkov, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, said Lavrov may A source in the prosecutor general’s office confirmed reports on state media that meet Pompeo in the city of Rovaniemi, which would host Arctic acting public prosecutor general Al-Waleed Sayyed Ahmed had ordered Bashir’s Council ministerial meeting, RIA reported. questioning under “anti-money laundering and financing terrorism laws”. Maduro Exhorts Venezuela Monster Cyclone Military to Fight Any Coup Plotter Smashes Eastern India

CARACAS (Dispatches) - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday called on the armed forces to oppose “any coup plotter” after a military uprising in support of opposition leader Juan Guaido fizzled out, and subsequent street clashes left four protesters dead. On Tuesday, Guaido -- who has been recognized by more than 50 countries as the crisis-wracked country’s interim president -- urged the armed forces to rise up against the embattled leader. A small group heeded the call, but the movement failed to ignite -- the military leadership ratified their support for the government, and Maduro is standing his ground despite international pressure. NEW DELHI (Dispatches) - Cyclone Fani, one of the “Yes, we are in combat -- keep morale high in this biggest storms to come off the Indian Ocean in recent fight to disarm any traitor, any coup plotter,” Maduro years, slammed into India on Friday, tearing down trees, said Thursday at a televised event with the military high blowing away food stands and cutting off power and water. command, at which he was surrounded by soldiers. The monster weather system, which threatened to bring “No one can be afraid -- it is the hour to defend our a dangerous storm surge that could flood low-lying areas, right to peace,” he said at a ceremony attended by 4,500 was packing winds of up to 180 kilometres (110 miles) an military personnel, according to the government. hour as it ripped into the country’s east coast. Defense Minister General Vladimir Padrino said: Forecasters say the areas could see gusts of up to 200 “We’ve come to ratify our loyalty ... to the supreme kilometres per hour, equivalent in strength to a commander of the armed forces, who is our only In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump offered killed in the northern state of Aragua on Tuesday. Category 3 to 4 hurricane. president, President Nicolas Maduro.” prayers at a White House service for “the people of Human rights organizations and health services In recent days authorities in Odisha, where 10,000 The failed uprising sparked two days of protests Venezuela in their righteous struggle for freedom.” reported that dozens of people were hurt on both people died in a 1999 cyclone, have evacuated more against the government in which four people were “The brutal repression of the Venezuelan people must Tuesday and Wednesday. than a million people as they fret about a possible 1.5- killed, including two teenagers who died of their end, and it must end soon,” he warned. The government said more than 150 people were metre (five-foot) storm surge. Hundreds of thousands injuries on Thursday. Opposition lawmakers and family members announced arrested on Tuesday. more people in West Bengal state have also been given Meanwhile, Venezuela’s supreme court ordered the Thursday that two teenage protesters had succumbed to So far, 25 rebel soldiers have sought asylum at the orders to flee. Special teams were moving through re-arrest of influential opposition figure Leopoldo Lopez injuries sustained in the anti-government protests. Yoifre Brazilian embassy. holiday villages urging tourists to get to safety. -- who made a dramatic appearance alongside Guaido on Hernandez, 14, was hit by gunfire during Wednesday’s Speaking from the Spanish ambassador’s residence, India’s National Disaster Response Force shared Tuesday after he was freed from house arrest. Lopez has clashes in Caracas, while 16-year-old Yosner Graterol Lopez said the small rebellion on Tuesday would images of several uprooted trees along the coast in since taken refuge at the Spanish embassy. suffered a gunshot wound during unrest in the northern town eventually lead to the end of Maduro’s “dictatorship.” Andhra Pradesh state to the south. The NDRF teams were The 48-year-old Lopez was a prominent opposition of La Victoria on Tuesday, lawmakers and relatives said. “It’s a crack that will become a bigger crack ... that trying to remove the fallen trees and branches to ensure leader in 2014 when he was imprisoned after calling for Jurubith Rausseo, 27, died Wednesday after being shot in will end up breaking the dam,” said Lopez. they don’t become projectiles if the winds intensify. protests against Maduro. He was transferred to house the head, the non-governmental Venezuelan Observatory Madrid said it would not hand over Lopez to Fani was expected to barrel northeastwards into West arrest in 2017. of Social Conflict said on Twitter. Another person was Venezuelan authorities, nor would it ask him to leave. Bengal state and towards Bangladesh, on a trajectory that will take it over the homes of 100 million people. Meteorologists have warned of the “total destruction” of thatched houses, the uprooting of power and Pelosi Says U.S. Attorney Turkey Cannot Quickly communication poles, the “flooding of escape routes” General Lied to Congress Abandon Iranian Oil and damage to crops in some areas. ISTANBUL (Reuters) - Turkey will be unable to diversify oil imports quickly after the United States ended waivers on purchases from Iran, the Turkish foreign minister said on Thursday, a day after a U.S.- Albanian Opposition Blocks imposed sanctions deadline passed. Turkey’s statement follows comments by China, which Roads in Push for Snap Polls said last month it opposed “long-armed jurisdictions implemented by the United States” and would continue “rational and legal” cooperation with Iran. The United States told buyers to stop oil purchases “It does not seem possible for us to diversify the by May 1 or face sanctions, ending six months of sources of the oil we import in a short time,” he told a waivers that had allowed Iran’s biggest customers to news conference, adding that Washington should import limited volumes. review its decision. Turkey and China are the only two countries so far to “We have to renew the technology of our refineries WASHINGTON (Dispatches) - House Speaker Nancy have expressed a desire to continue large purchases of when we buy oil from third countries. That would mean Pelosi on Thursday accused the top U.S. law-enforcement Iranian crude. Other major buyers, such as India, Japan the refineries remaining shut for some time. This, of officer of committing a crime by lying to Congress, and South Korea, have signalled they would bow to course, has a cost.” escalating the showdown between Donald Trump’s U.S. pressure. The White House has put pressure on its strategic administration and the Democrats investigating him. Turkey has reduced its heavy reliance on Iranian Persian Gulf ally and top global oil exporter, Saudi Pelosi levelled the rare charge after Attorney General crude in the past year, but Turkish Foreign Minister Arabia, as well as the United Arab Emirates to export Bill Barr skipped out on his scheduled testimony before Mevlut Cavusoglu said its refineries were not suited to more oil to meet potential shortages arising from TIRANA (Reuters) - Several thousand supporters of a House of Representatives panel eager to probe his handling oil from some other countries. Iranian sanctions. Albania’s opposition parties blocked national roads in handling of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report on a dozen towns on Thursday evening, the latest in three Russian interference in the 2016 election. months of protests to try to push the government to Infuriated Democrats quickly threatened to censure Pentagon Warns on Risk of Chinese Submarines in Arctic accept snap elections. him for contempt. Barr, in the job since February, had WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Deepening Chinese activities in the Arctic region could pave the way for a strengthened The opposition, alleging fraud in the 2017 parliamentary been grilled a day earlier in the Republican-led Senate, military presence, including the deployment of submarines to act as deterrents against nuclear attack, the Pentagon elections, has staged rallies and cut its ties to parliament where Democrats accused him of whitewashing said in a report released on Thursday. to press for early polls, but the government of Prime Mueller’s report in order to protect Trump. The assessment is included in the U.S. military’s annual report to Congress on China’s armed forces and follows Minister Edi Rama has dismissed the allegations. But he was a no-show at a hearing before the House Beijing’s publication of its first official Arctic policy white paper in June. The European Union and the United States have Judiciary Committee, after its leadership announced it In that paper, China outlined plans to develop shipping lanes opened up by global warming to form a “Polar Silk called the government legitimate and have urged the would have lawyers cross-examine him following a Road” - building on President Xi Jinping’s signature Belt and Road Initiative. opposition to return to parliament and take part in local round of questioning by the panel’s elected members. China, despite being a non-Arctic state, is increasingly active in the polar region and became an observer member elections on June 30. The leader of the main opposition Barr’s absence appeared to antagonize Pelosi, of the Arctic Council in 2013. That has prompted concerns from Arctic states over Beijing’s long-term strategic Democratic Party, Lulzim Basha, speaking on Thursday Trump’s Democratic nemesis in Congress, who objectives, including possible military deployments. to a meeting of his allies with media analysts, said accused the attorney general of misleading lawmakers. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will attend the meeting of the eight-nation Arctic Council in Rovaniemi, Rama should step down, then his party would talk to “He lied to Congress,” Pelosi said, apparently Finland, starting on Monday, which comes amid concerns the ruling Socialists about setting up an interim referring to Barr’s testimony under oath before over China’s increased commercial interests in the Arctic. government to prepare free and fair elections. lawmakers in April. “That’s a crime.” The Pentagon report noted that Denmark has The protests are taking place two months ahead of a In that hearing, Barr claimed not to know whether expressed concern about China’s interest in Greenland, decision by European Union member states whether to Mueller supported his controversial memo which has included proposals to establish a research approve the start of accession negotiations with summarizing the report and said he did not know why station and a satellite ground station, renovate airports Albania and North Macedonia. members of Mueller’s team would be frustrated over and expand mining. “I call on our European and international friends not to the summary. It emerged on Tuesday, however, that “Civilian research could support a strengthened Chinese punish Albania,” Basha told a rally in Elbasan, central when Barr said this, he was already in possession of a military presence in the Arctic Ocean, which could Albania, referring to the pending EU decision. “There March 27 letter from Mueller outlining the special include deploying submarines to the region as a deterrent will be no elections without the country’s opposition. counsel’s frustrations. against nuclear attacks,” the report said. There will be no false election process,” he added. SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 PROMOTIONAL ITEM IRAN NEWS 5 6 IRAN NEWS INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019

ANKARA (Dispatches) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Turkey was determined to achieve targets for the exchange rate and inflation. Erdoğan also said he was sensitive about minimizing interest rates as the country pursues economic growth. He spoke at a televised meeting of businessmen in Ankara on Thursday. Turkey Determined on Exchange Rate, Inflation Targets Turkey has no official target for the value of the lira, though investors have speculated that the central bank and state-run lenders under the government’s control have been using up their reserves of foreign currency to support the lira.

IMF Has Bad News for the UN Chief Calls on All Middle East And Oil Is to Blame To Defend Journalists’ Rights TEHRAN (UNIC) – United Nations Secretary-General ABU DHABI (Oil Price) - Heightened volatility in oil prices as well as political Antonio Guterres in his message on World Press instability will combine to pressure economic growth in the Middle East, the Freedom Day, 3 May 2019, while emphasizing on the International Monetary Fund warned in the latest edition of its Regional Economic essential role of free press for peace, justice, sustainable Outlook Update for the region. development and human rights, called on all to defend Inflation in the Middle East will remain high, at about 10 percent, according to the the rights of journalists. report, with economic growth declining from some 2 percent last year to 1.5 percent this year. Yet these are the average figures. In reality, the countries in the Middle East The full text of his message reads: face rather different challenges. A free press is essential for peace, justice, Iran is the country that will suffer the most from the trends the IMF talks about sustainable development and human rights. because of the U.S. sanctions. According to Jihad Azour, the fund’s department No democracy is complete without access to director for the Middle East and Central Asia, the recession already gripping Iran will transparent and reliable information. It is the deepen to 6 percent this year from 4 percent in 2018. Since Tehran has signaled it has cornerstone for building fair and impartial no intention to give the U.S. what it wants—a new nuclear deal as Washington has institutions, holding leaders accountable and stated—chances are this scenario is the one we will see play out in one of the Middle speaking truth to power. East’s largest countries. year, although this will be accompanied by an increase in budget deficits as well. This is especially true during election seasons -- Yet even sanction-free U.S. allies such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab The news isn’t good for the energy importing countries in the region. Egypt, the focus of this year’s World Press Freedom Day. Emirates are not going to have it too easy this year, if the IMF’s analysts are right. Lebanon, Jordan and others in this club, will also see slower economic growth and Facts, not falsehoods, should guide people as they The Saudi economy will grow more slowly this year, with the growth rate declining higher inflation than the rich oil boys’ club, although the average inflation rate will choose their representatives. from 2.2 percent in 2018 to 1.8 percent. remain relatively unchanged on 2018. Yet while technology has transformed the ways in On a wider scale, the members of the Gulf Economic Council, which include, Besides the overall trend of slowing economic growth, which echoes the slowdown which we receive and share information, sometimes besides Saudi Arabia, also the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, and Kuwait, will see on a global scale, the Middle East and North African countries have another reason it is used to mislead public opinion or to fuel GDP growth relatively unchanged at an average 2 percent but they would need to for worry: political unrests in Algeria, Sudan, Libya, and Yemen, along with the violence and hatred. Civic space has been shrinking double down on their diversification efforts. The six countries need to create about a simmering tension in the Middle East, always there and ready to flare up. worldwide at an alarming rate. million new jobs annually over the next five years at least in order to maintain Investors have been traditionally wary of the political dynamics in the region, but And with anti-media rhetoric on the rise, so too are unemployment rates where they are, the IMF said. recent events are likely to make them even warier and less willing to put their money violence and harssasment against journalists, However, the diversification efforts are beginning to pay off even if they are burdening there regardless of ambitious economic diversification plans. “This may feed back including women. state budgets: the IMF said non-oil revenues for these countries will rise moderately this into further oil price volatility and regional uncertainty,” the report’s authors said. I am deeply troubled by the growing number of attacks and the culture of impunity. According to UNESCO, almost 100 journalists were killed in 2018. EU to Shield Its Companies in Cuba Via WTO Hundreds are imprisoned. When media workers are targeted, societies as a BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The European Union could from other countries, although she did not name whole pay a price. take the United States to the World Trade Organization them. European, as well as Canadian companies, On World Press Freedom Day, I call on all to or use retaliatory sanctions to protect its companies in have invested in Cuba’s tourism and energy defend the rights of journalists, whose efforts help Cuba after President Donald Trump lifted a ban on U.S. sectors and Trump’s decision is likely to further us to build a better world for all. Thank you. citizens filing lawsuits against investors there. strain ties. “The EU considers the extra-territorial application of The Trump administration last month lifted a unilateral restrictive measures to be contrary to long-standing ban against U.S. citizens filing lawsuits international law and will draw on all appropriate against foreign companies that use properties seized by Asia Accounts for Over 40% of measures,” the EU’s foreign policy chief Federica Cuba’s Communist government since Fidel Castro’s Mogherini said in a statement. 1959 revolution. Global Economic Output Mogherini said those steps could include a World The major policy shift, which the State Department Trade Organization case on the issue or using a said could draw hundreds of thousands of legal claims “Blocking Statute” that allows EU companies sued in worth tens of billions of dollars, is intended to intensify the United States to recover any damages from U.S. pressure on Havana at a time Washington is demanding claimants in EU courts. an end to Cuban support for Venezuela’s socialist Mogherini said the EU would also seek support president, Nicolas Maduro. Armenian Economic Revolution Has Come to Naught Central Banks Boost Gold Demand Amid Geopolitical Worries YEREVAN (Dispatches) - Hopes fora happy future after the velvet revolution are LONDON (Dispatches) - The world’s demand for gold rose in the first three disappearing, as Armenian economic indicators continue their rapid decline. months of 2019 as central banks diversified away from the dollar amid Armenian Statistical Committee published macroeconomic data for January to March concern over geopolitical instability, the World Gold Council industry body 2019 in relation to the same period last year. From the very beginning of this year, the said Thursday. ANKARA (Dispatches) - Asia, a continent with the greatest disappointments lie in the sphere of foreign trade turnover. For three months, the Global demand increased by seven percent to 1,053.3 tons in the first world’s 21 largest cities, accounts for more than 40 indicator of foreign trade turnover fell by 5 percent, exports by 8.6 percent, imports by quarter compared to a year earlier, the WGC said in a quarterly report on the percent of global economic output, Turkey’s foreign 3.1 percent as compared to the same period of 2018. precious metal. minister said on May 1. A miracle did not happen, and the data for the first quarter of 2019 shows that the Armenian Purchases by central banks hit 145.5 tons of gold, up 68 percent. That was the best “Asia is returning to be a center for global economy, despite all the loud authorities’ declarations, cannot be reoriented towards exports. performance for that period since 2013. economic activities,” Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu said at the The figures are significantly inferior to those of even the first quarter of 2018. “Central banks are diversifying away from the dollar,” WGC spokesman John Asia Cooperation Dialogue’s foreign ministers In January to March 2019, agriculture indicators saw 7.6 percent decrease. The Mulligan told AFP. meeting in Doha, Qatar. Statistical Committee publishes data on agriculture only quarterly, due to the The report added that “diversification and a desire for safe, liquid assets were again He added: “It has become the main growth engine seasonality of production in this area and the need to smooth out sharp fluctuations the main drivers of the purchases”. of the world.” in production from month to month, dictated by unstable climatic conditions. Gold demand from exchange-traded funds (ETFs) meanwhile jumped 49 Referring to recent terror attacks in New Zealand Taking into account the chronic degradation of agriculture, the monthly indicators percent to 40.3 tons. and Sri Lanka, he said: “There should be no of economic activity without the constantly minimizing agrarian sector now look ETFs -- which allow investment without trading on the futures market -- witnessed distinction between terrorist groups, and we need to much better, so the decision of the statistical committee has also a political aspect. the biggest inflows in the United States and also in Europe. address root causes of terrorism and extremism.” Despite the efforts of the statistical committee to hide the existing problems, the ETF demand for gold was “underpinned by continued geopolitical instability” in He went on to say that regional cooperation was first quarterly indicator for agriculture has been published and amounts to Europe, the WGC said. crucial to achieve inclusive economic growth, 99.8 percent, compared to the previous year indicator. It means that there is nothing The main two drivers of gold -- which is regarded as a safe haven investment in sustainable development and social justice. Çavuşoğlu ‘revolutionary in the agrarian sphere, and a ‘counterrevolutionary rollback occurs times of economic turbulence -- are investment buying and jewellery. stressed Turkey became part of the Asia Cooperation even from the indicators achieved in 2018. In the first quarter, jewellery demand rose one percent to 530.3 tons on particularly Dialogue and other forums “to maximize the potential More important is what happens in the industry. If in 2017 and in early 2018, the keen demand from India. of Asia and to address issues that affect daily lives.” industrial complex on equal terms ended in growth rates with the same services and Bar and coin investment demand however fell one percent to 257.8 tons from a year He added that to increase trade volume efficient trade, in recent months this most important sector of the Armenian economy has earlier, hit by profit taking in Japan. transport networks and energy infrastructure were crucial. hopelessly lagged behind them. “In the light of increasing trade volume, developing During the 1st quarter of 2018, the industry showed an increase of 8.2 percent, secure and efficient transport networks will have although this figure was 12.6 percent in 2017. The quarterly growth rate of the significant impact in generating economic rings. current year is only 2 percent. Thus, in this most important area, Armenia can only “We should focus on establishing a regional dream of the former high growth rates. In January 2019, industrial output just went energy infrastructure network and developing down by 0.4 percent, renewable energy resources and promoting energy While the level of industrial inflation in January was 2.6 percent in red and efficiency programs.” He also stressed the power of 1 percent in red in February, the indicator ended at 0.3 percent in black in March, cultural exchange and tourism. which does not contribute to the revival of industrial complex. “As someone born and raised in Turkey’s The figures for the production Mediterranean part, our main tourism region, I mean of electricity also fell sharply. Antalya, I know first-hand how tourism and cultural In January, this figure fell by as exchange positively contribute to prosperity and much as 22.3 percent, in stability,” he said. Çavuşoğlu later met his Iranian January to February the decline counterpart Javad Zarif and Qatari counterpart was 21 percent, and in January Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. to March it ended at 14 percent. Meanwhile, Turkey will chair the Asia Cooperation It is unlikely that a 14 percent Dialogue, the foreign ministry announced on April 30. drop in electricity production “Turkey will assume the Chairmanship of the Asia can be seen at least some signs Cooperation Dialogue in September 2019 for one year,” of a future revival of industrial the ministry said in a statement. life in the country. SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 WORLD NEWS IRAN NEWS 7

TEHRAN (MNA) – Iran’s export value of non-oil products to Pakistan in the last Iranian calendar year (ended March 20, 2019) hit $1.247 billion, showing a considerable 36 percent hike as compared to the same period the year before. Despite lack of banking channels between the two countries and various Iran Non-Oil Exports to Pakistan Hits Record High customs and tariff barriers, Iran’s export of non-oil products to Pakistan recorded a 36 percent growth.

INSTEX Not to Be... Iran Won’t Allow U.S. to Threaten Persian Gulf Security FROM PAGE 1 He added that the meeting indicates that London is IRAN NEWS POLITICAL DESK “As we have stated before, Iran won’t permit the U.S. to threaten the fully eager to take Persian Gulf,” the foreign minister added. advantage of this new TEHRAN - While Iran doesn’t want to escalate tensions further with He also reiterated accusations that a handful of world leaders — from the mechanism “INSTEX”, Washington, it won’t allow the U.S. to threaten the security of the Persian U.S., Israel, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates — were actively adding while they are getting closer to the launch Gulf, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said Thursday. promoting conflict between the U.S. and Iran. of the mechanism, those “Aggravating the situation between Tehran and Washington isn’t in Iran’s Those leaders, which Zarif has previously described as the “B-Team”, talks become important in interest,” Zarif told Qatar’s Al Jazeera television channel on Thursday. include U.S. National Security Adviser John Bolton; Israeli Prime Minister order to become certain that the mechanism is on the “But we want to keep the Persian Gulf safe and open to everyone, including Benjamin Netanyahu; Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman; and right track, saying that the mechanism has been Iran,” he said. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. prepared in accordance with Iran’s demands. Before his meeting in London, Fischer had meetings with Iranian officials in late April. He then in London No Oil Leak in Red Sea got necessary licenses and green-lights and both sides U.S. in No Position to Lecture Others on Human Rights signed agreements for the next steps and UK’s share By Iranian Tanker of the INSTEX. IRAN NEWS POLITICAL DESK TEHRAN (Shana) - National Iranian Tanker Company Mousavi also noted that the U.S.’ economic terrorism, European sides have claimed that since February, (NITC) said Happiness 1 Vessel of the company had which is being practiced by imposing indiscriminate the INSTEX has witnessed good progresses and leaked no oil in the Red Sea despite “engine failure TEHRAN - Foreign Ministry Spokesman Seyyed Abbas sanctions against a nation, serves as the greatest and effective steps have been taken, adding that after and loss of control”. Mousavi has denounced a recent anti-Iran statement by most widespread violation of economic and social removing hurdles, it will become operational. According to NIDC, the vessel is now safe and no his American counterpart, saying the US is in no place to rights of human beings. Many in Iran believe that Europe will never enter injuries have been reported so far. NIDC said no comment on human rights situation in other countries. “All countries need to observe human rights, but the this game with Iran and the INSTEX is like an environmental damage was caused by the incident. In response to the meddlesome statement of his American United States, which has a dark record of human rights elusive rattlebox which has been created to On Tuesday, the vessel, with 26 crewmembers aborad, counterpart, Mousavi said it’s now well-known to the whole inside and outside the country, needs to carry out an entertain Iran for a while. was sailing in the Red Sea towards Suez Canal when its world that the U.S. regime neither believes in human rights urgent review in this regard,” he said. That it is said some good progresses have been engine failed due to water leakage to the engine room. 24 nor is ethically qualified and has the legitimacy to meddle in “Continuous violations of racial and religious made since February is like a joke and this progress of the crew members are Iranian and 2 are Bangladeshi. such issues and take the gesture of a human rights advocate. minorities inside the US, export of billions of dollars’ has not been felt by any Iranian to confirm this belief “The shameful silence of the U.S. State Department worth of weapons for the massacre of civilians, acts of that Europe has been really after a solution. towards beheading and crucifixion of 37 political activists torture in notorious jails, and imposition of unilateral India... and religious minorities in Saudi Arabia is the latest and brutal sanctions on other nations are just part of the example of the reality that in the U.S.’ view, positions on US’ dark record in this area,” he said. Impossible... FROM PAGE 1 human rights which previously served as a political means “Iranians don’t need the deceitful and war-mongering FROM PAGE 1 have turned into a commodity, as well,” he said. support of the U.S.,” Mousavi concluded. Guyana offers an attractive alternative. While OPEC is determined to avoid a global “energy crisis” ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production as some of its members are facing international Guyana Ltd is the operator and holds 45% interest in sanctions and others struggling with unrest, the the Stabroek block spread over 26,800sq. km, Special Mechanism for Financial Operations Between Iran and EU cartel’s chief said. US-based Hess Corp. and China’s largest offshore oil “As an organization, we will remain focused on our and gas producer CNOOC hold 30% and 25%, IRAN NEWS ECONOMIC DESK goal of avoiding an energy crisis that may affect the respectively. ExxonMobil is also the operator of the global economy,” Barkindo said on the sidelines of Canje and Kaieteur blocks in offshore Guyana and TEHRAN - After the development of a special mechanism for trade and financial operations between Iran and the the exhibition. expects to produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil a day EU, it will be implemented in coordination with Iranian and European banks, CEO of the special Iranian joint stock Barkindo’s remarks come as Turkey said it cannot from the Liza Phase 1 development in early 2020. company for trade and financing between Iran and Europe (SATMA) Ali Asghar Noori said. replace Iran’s exports. Qatar has also warned that the “Essentially in Guyana, we are looking at whether we According to Noori, following joint meetings of officials from European countries and INSTEX, an initial sanctions on Iran’s oil would certainly harm the can get farm-in opportunities. We are also looking at financial transit is supposed to be carried out via coordination of both parties. countries that are dependent on the Iranian oil. getting steady supplies and to establish term contracts In his words, the Iranian side is ready for the mechanism to be launched. He also stressed the importance of “The sanctions should not be extended because they for our oil companies, among other things,” said the speeding up the implementation of the financial mechanism. have an adverse impact on countries benefiting from government official cited earlier. Under a “farm-in” “Coordination meetings have been held with Iranian banks to this end, and several meetings will be held next Iranian oil,” Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh contract, an energy firm acquires a stake in a discovered or week to introduce the mechanism and its capabilities to Iranian importers and exporters,” Ali Asghar Noori said. Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani told a press producing field the lease of which is owned by another firm. The Central Bank of Iran and other Iranian banks continue taking steps to launch of this mechanism in the nearest future. conference in Doha on Wednesday. Typically, “farm-in” contracts are costlier than those inked for The U.S. announced its withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action in May 2018. Three European Meanwhile Iran’s Oil Minister warned that OPEC is non-discovered fields. Queries emailed to spokespeople of signatories of the agreement including France, Germany and the UK (shortened as E3) officially announced the in danger of collapse as some nations seek to India’s ministries of external affairs and petroleum and natural creation of the Instrument in Support of Trade Exchanges (INSTEX), a special purpose vehicle, to allow them undermine their fellow members, an apparent gas, and CNOOC on Monday night remained unanswered. bypass US sanctions in the trade with Iran. INSTEX facilitates non-dollar trade with Iran, allowing European reference to Saudi Arabia’s pledge to fill the supply A spokesperson for Hess in an emailed response companies to trade with the Islamic Republic without being hit by the sanctions. gap created by U.S. sanctions on Iranian exports. said: “I can confirm that Hess holds 30% working “Iran is a member of OPEC for its interests and any interest in the Stabroek Block and also has a 15% threat from member states won’t go unanswered,” interest in the Kaieteur Block offshore Guyana. For Bijan Namdar Zanganeh said after a meeting with all other questions regarding these blocks, I would Orban Says EU Conservatives Must Work With Populists Barkindo in Tehran on Thursday, according to the oil direct you to the operator ExxonMobil.” ROME (Reuters) - Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor “The EPP is preparing to commit suicide and wants to ministry’s Shana news agency. Robert R. from Dallas-based ExxonMobil’s media Orban has said the European Parliament’s main centre- tie itself to the left,” Orban said. Zanganeh had already censured “two neighboring relations team on Monday night said over the phone that right group must forge an alliance with populist, Matteo Salvini, the head of Italy’s far-right League, is states” for voicing readiness to fill the gap of Iranian the company would respond to queries from Mint. The nationalist groups after impending EU elections, receiving trying to put together a Europe-wide alliance of barrels in the market. “I told Mr. Barkindo that OPEC responses were yet to be received till the time of going to a swift rebuke from Germany’s conservative leader. nationalist, anti-immigration parties. is in danger by the unilateralism of some members press. Till now, Indian energy firms have invested around Orban’s ruling Fidesz Party was suspended from the Orban alluded to this, saying: “We need to find another and the organization faces the risk of collapse,” he $38 billion to buy equity energy stakes in 28 countries, mainstream European People’s Party (EPP) in March path through cooperation with Europe’s right wing.” said on Thursday, stopping short of naming names. including Australia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brazil, over its record on respect for the rule of law, freedom of But German conservative leader Annegret Kramp- Canada, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Nigeria and Russia. the press and minorities’ rights. Karrenbauer, a potential successor to Chancellor Orban has denied violating any EU principles and said Angela Merkel, was dismissive. “If Orban chooses to Uptick... he wants to remain part of the EPP. But in an interview move further away from the EPP, there is no way back Europe Tries... FROM PAGE 1 with the Italian newspaper La Stampa published on to the EPP for him and Fidesz,” she said. “Since the FROM PAGE 1 Wednesday, he said the group had to drop its aversion suspension in March, Orban and Fidesz no longer have Qureshi explained the steps Pakistan and Iran had To be clear, Instex right now only wants to deal in to the far right. any influence on EPP policy.” taken to engage with each other. “I held meetings humanitarian essentials – medicine and food, for with the Iranian foreign minister four times ─ example – but Europe has said it wants to expand the Will Never Sit... twice in Islamabad, once in Tehran and once in facility in the long term. Combined with new Istanbul. During that we discussed the overall “blocking regulations” that make it an offense for EU FROM PAGE 1 situation, border challenges, ways to maintain businesses to comply with U.S. extraterritorial peace on the border, ways to manage it by agreeing sanctions, there’s a loud message here that Europe’s Araqchi warned that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) may come to an end as early as possible to create a joint center,” he said, so that if there are leaders want to go their own way. due to the US approach towards the deal. any attacks, there are procedures in place to deal Criticism has focused on the everyday practicality of “The JCPOA is not an economic deal but a security one connected to regional and global security,” he noted. with them. using Instex beyond those humanitarian aims, plus the He went on to say that the JCPOA was ratified by the United Nations Security Council in Resolution 2231. “We have cooperated with each other, some steps wisdom of Europe resisting its key NATO ally, whose “Violating the nuclear deal means violating the UNSC resolution. The US has not only pulled out of the deal but have been taken. We are increasing some of our dominant currency affords it huge extra-territorial reach also pressurized other members of the UNSC into following its footsteps,” he said. According to Araqchi, Iran Frontier Corps regiments, we are building a when waging economic war. For the Trump administration, has been sanctioned because of its full commitment to the United Nations’ resolution. headquarters in Turbat so that there is a rapid response, the special purpose vehicle is a misguided attempt to The Iranian diplomat added that unlike the American officials’ claim, Iran’s commitments under the nuclear our helicopter surveillance (near the border) has “break” American sanctions and offer cover to the Islamic deal are permanent. “We started the JCPOA negotiation in a good faith. The final achievement of our marathon increased, and we have agreed on the formation of a Republic. For Iran, it’s a paper tiger. Zarif says Europe has negotiations was the JCPA. It was globally welcomed. But all of a sudden, a man pushed his way into the White joint border center and border fencing,” he said. dragged its feet and is clearly reluctant to launch the system. House and said the nuclear deal was the worst deal in the US history,” he said. “The prime minister, during his visit to Iran, spoke Neither complaint is entirely fair. Instex is obviously a Araqchi said Iran has given a one-year time to the remaining signatories of the nuclear deal to adopt appropriate to Iranian leadership and laid matters out before them. work-in-progress, a sketch on paper more than a reality. But mechanism to keep the nuclear deal alive and added the Islamic Republic of Iran can’t wait forever. “We will make The misunderstandings that existing between our for London, Paris and Berlin, whose unity tends to crumble a due decision against the US sanctions. The global failure to keep the JCPOA alive will have dire consequences.” security officials were removed and a more positive under U.S. pressure, a public commitment to this vehicle is a The Iranian deputy foreign minister called the U.S. regional policy wrong and said the policy could have and enabling environment has been created,” he said. kind of success in itself. And it is being taken seriously by various negative consequences. “By withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal, the US is seeking to ruin the He recalled two recent instances that took place parts of the American establishment, who are aware of any region’s only diplomatic achievement. This will have dire regional repercussions. The regional people will lose near the border with Iran ─ the first in which at risks – however distant – to the dollar’s dominance. “The their confidence in diplomacy. This will contribute to resistance movements in the region. People now have come least 12 Iranian border guards had been abducted plumbing is being built and tested to work around the United to this conclusion that talks with the west leads nowhere.” The Iranian diplomat slammed the U.S. for its allegedly by Jaish al-Adl militants, and the second States,” former Treasury Secretary Jack Lew warned in destructive policy towards the region and said Iran is after peace and security. in which some 14 Pakistanis were killed on the February. “There will increasingly be alternatives that will Araqchi described as “dangerous” the US decision to blacklist Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Makran Coastal Highway by terrorist groups chip away at the centrality of the United States.” as a terrorist organization and said the US should be held accountable for any consequences of the move. allegedly based in Iran. Woods to Receive IRAN NEWS Marquez Bidding Licence Holder: Sokhan Gostar Institute Presidential Honor To Bounce Back EW YORK (Dispatches) - Tiger Woods, who made a Switchboard: E-Mail Address: ONDON (Dispatches) - Reigning world champion Marc (+98) (21) 44253448 [email protected] Nstunning comeback from injury to win the Masters last ISSN 1024-6053 LMarquez will be hoping to get his title defence back on Public Relations Tel: month, is to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from 15875-8551 track when MotoGP’s 300th race takes place this weekend. (+98)(21) 44253450 P.O. Box: President Donald Trump on Monday. Address: No 13, Pajouhesh St., Marquez’s crash and retirement at the Circuit of Americas last Editorial Board: 44253449 White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said Trump will Goletan II St, Goletan St.Marzdaran month meant the Honda rider left empty-handed and now trails

bestow the award, the nation’s highest civilian honor, on the Public Relations Fax: Blvd., Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, the leader in the standings, by nine golfing great in the White House Rose Garden. (+98)(21) 44253395 Printed by:Honar Sarzmin Sabz points after three rounds. “Jerez is always a special race because The 43-year-old Woods won the Masters in April for his Advertising Department: Ditributed by: it is the first in Europe and there’s a lot of support from the 15th major title, his first since the 2008 US Open. Tel/Fax:(+98) (21) 44253335-9/44253234 Cities of Iran Cultural and Spanish fans,” Marquez said ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix. Website: Artistic Institute http://www.irannewsdaily.com Managing Director: Fereydoon Taherpour Asl

8 IRAN NEWS SPORTS SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2019 Blazers Hold Off Nuggets Chelsea Set Record, Casillas Stable After Heart Attack To Level Playoff Series ADRID (Dispatches) M- Veteran goalkeeper Arsenal Register Big Win Iker Casillas said “everything was under control” after suffering a heart attack in training, he posted on Twitter on Wednesday. The 37-year-old, who has 167 Spain caps and played more than 500 games for Real Madrid, suffered what his club, Porto called an “acute myocardial infarction” in training earlier in the day. “Everything is under control, a big scare but all is EW YORK (Dispatches) - C.J. McCollum intact. Thank you very much for the messages and Nscored 20 points as the Portland Trail Blazers affection,” Casillas said. held off a late rally from the Denver Nuggets to The club’s statement on Wednesday said “the score a series-leveling victory in their NBA Western training session was interrupted to provide Conference playoff duel. assistance,” adding that Casillas was in a Porto McCollum led the scorers in a hard-fought 97-90 hospital “well, stable and his heart problem solved.” victory on the road at Denver’s Pepsi Center to tie Portuguese media reported Casillas had undergone the best-of-seven series at 1-1. surgery and his season was over. Portland talisman Damian Lillard had a relatively Porto are second in the Portuguese championship, just quiet night, restricted to just 14 points after shooting two points behind leaders Benfica, and face Sporting five-of-17 from the field. However, double-digit Lisbon in the Portuguese Cup final on May 25. contributions Enes Kanter, Zach Collins, Rodney Hood ONDON (Dispatches) - Chelsea drew 1-1 with “At 1-0 down we were a bit in trouble,” Chelsea and Al-Farouq Aminu helped Portland get over the line. LEintracht Frankfurt while Arsenal’s Pierre- captain Cesar Azpilicueta said. “I really liked our approach in the first half, Emerick Aubameyang struck a vital late goal to seal a “I think the last 15 minutes of the first half we Alonso Joins Seven Past Winners particularly the first quarter,” Blazers coach Terry 3-1 win over Valencia. dominated with great chances. We scored the goal Stotts said. “I thought we were a lot better offensively Chelsea set a Europa League record of 16 successive before halftime and in the second half I think we had Among Indy 500 Entrants than in game one. We did a better job on the ball. I matches unbeaten on Thursday with 1-1 semi-final more chances than them.” Both sides are fourth in their liked the tone we set for most of the game.” first leg draw at Eintracht Frankfurt thanks to a Pedro domestic leagues, with the Europa League offering an ONDON (Dispatches) The Blazers looked to be cruising towards a equaliser on the stroke of half time. Serbian Luka alternative route to next season’s Champions League. L- Two-time Formula comfortable victory after a dominant first half, Jovic had put the hosts ahead after 23 minutes. The second leg is at Stamford Bridge next Thursday, One champion Fernando surging into a 50-35 lead at the break. The draw meant Chelsea, Europa League winners in when the positions in the Premier League will also Alonso of Spain and seven They opened up a 17-point lead early in the third 2013, surpassed Atletico Madrid’s 2011-12 unbeaten run. come into clearer focus before the final weekend. past winners are among quarter, and led by 14 heading into the final period. They took time to find their stride, however, with Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck a vital drivers for 36 cars That, however, was the cue for a sustained Denver Jovic stooping to head past the outstretched Kepa late goal to seal a 3-1 win over Valencia on Thursday announced Wednesday as assault, with the Nuggets slowly chipping away at Arrizabalaga off a cross from compatriot Filip Kostic and give his side breathing space for the second leg of entrants for the 103rd the Portland lead. A driving layup from Nikola Jokic with a goal that raised the decibels in a stadium famed their Europa League semi-final in Spain next week. Indianapolis 500. put Denver within five points at 95-90 with 34 for its atmosphere. Jovic, firmly on the radar of top Alexandre Lacazette scored twice in the first half The May 26 IndyCar oval seconds left on the clock. clubs across Europe, has now scored nine goals in the after Mouctar Diakhaby had stunned the Emirates classic around the famed But a foul by Mason Plumlee gifted two free competition and 26 in all this season. crowd with an early header to give Valencia the lead. 2.5-mile (4km) Indianapolis throws to Hood, who coolly drained both attempts Frankfurt failed to press home their advantage, The tie was still balanced on a knife edge, however, Motor Speedway offers to take the Blazers 97-90 clear with 17 seconds however, running out of energy in a second half before Gabon striker Aubameyang’s 90th-minute Alonso a chance to complete global auto racing’s remaining. Jokic led the Denver scorers with 16 dominated by the visitors with Jorginho dictating play. volley put his side in control ahead of the second leg “Triple Crown” with Monaco Grand Prix, 24 Hours of points while Jamal Murray added 15. Paul Millsap Ruben Loftus-Cheek led the fightback, blasting just in Valencia’s Mestalla. Le Mans and Indy 500 triumphs. finished with 14 points. wide in the 42nd minute and then nimbly beating Unai Emery’s team will need to show more steel The 37-year-old Spaniard led 27 laps as an Indy 500 Stotts meanwhile praised the defensive effort that defenders before feeding the ball through to Spanish than they have done away from home for much of the newcomer in 2017 before a mechanical problem restricted Jokic, but was unhappy that the Serbian winger Pedro who hammered in a low left-foot shot. season, though, if they are to reach the final in Baku ended his race with 20 laps remaining. He was named managed to haul down 14 rebounds throughout the game. Chelsea were far livelier after the break, with the and a possible meeting with London rivals Chelsea. the Indy 500 Rookie of the Year for his efforts. “I thought we pressured him a little bit more,” Stotts hosts having another close escape when David Luiz Arsenal, Europa League semi-finalists last year, had Alonso’s career includes F1 crowns in 2005 and said. “He didn’t get the clean looks that we gave him rattled the crossbar from a dipping free kick. lost three consecutive Premier League games to drop 2006, Monaco victories in 2006 and 2007 and a in game one. He got too many offensive rebounds in Frankfurt captain David Abraham headed over the to fifth place in the table with two games left share of the 2018 24 Hours of Le Mans title from the the fourth though. We were very fortunate that we bar while unmarked with six minutes remaining after undermining their hopes of qualifying for the pole alongside teammates Sebastien Buemi of weren’t hurt as badly as we could have been.” an optimistic appeal for a penalty came to nothing. Champions League via a top-four finish. Switzerland and Kazuki Nakajima of Japan. Shadab Fights Carter Coming Hepatitis Ahead of Back for Record World Cup 22nd NBA Season SLAMABAD (Dispatches) - Pakistan’s fast-rising EW YORK (Dispatches) - Vince Carter says he Iall-rounder Shadab Khan was Wednesday battling to Nwill return next season for a record 22nd NBA be fit for the World Cup after contracting hepatitis, campaign at age 42, although it might not be with his reportedly from a dentists’ non-sterilized instruments. current club, the Atlanta Hawks. The 20-year-old was last month ruled out of Pakistan’s Once among the NBA’s elite players, eight-time NBA ongoing tour of England after blood tests revealed he was All-Star swingman Carter will find himself alone in NBA suffering from hepatitis. Pakistan media reported that Shadab endurance if he can sign a contract for another season. contracted the virus during dental treatment in Rawalpindi. Retiring Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki, The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said Shadab had a check-up former Boston star centers Kevin Garnett and Robert with a UK-based doctor and was advised two weeks rest. Parish and forward Kevin Willis are the only players in “Shadab had a check up with Dr Patrick Kennedy, a world renowned gastroenterologist and hepatologist who NBA history to match Carter’s 21 league seasons. specializes in liver disease in elite sportsmen and was put on medication,” said a PCB release. Carter revealed his plans on his “Winging It” podcast, saying,”I’m coming back.” After two weeks rest, Shadab will undergo another round of blood tests in Lahore after which his availability for But when asked if his return would be with the Hawks, who signed him to a one-season deal last August for $2.4 million, Carter the World Cup will be assessed, a PCB spokesman said. was less certain, saying only: “I would like to. We’ll see what happens.” Carter averaged 7.7 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists Shadab was included in Pakistan’s 15-man preliminary World Cup squad announced last month. over 17.5 minutes a game in 76 appearances for the Hawks, who went 29-53, 12 games behind Detroit for the final Eastern All ten teams in the tournament have until May 23 to change their squads for the World Cup which starts in Conference playoff berth. Carter cracked the 25,000 career point mark, placing himself among the league’s all-time top 20 scorers. England and Wales from May 30. The fifth overall pick in the 1998 NBA Draft by Golden State, he was traded to Toronto for pal Antawn Jamison. A leg-spinner of great potential, Shadab has been Pakistan’s key bowler in one-day internationals and Twenty20 He was named the 1999 NBA Rookie of the Year and won the 2000 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, his high leaping cricket since his debut in 2017. acrobatic slam dunks earning him such nicknames as “Air Canada” and “Vinsanity” while helping the Raptors to He has 47 wickets in 34 ODIs and 44 wickets in 32 T20Is. their first playoff berth in 2000 and first post-season series win in 2001.