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Tuesday 20 January 2015 • 29 Rabial I 1436 • Volume 19 Number 6316 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780

Qatar beat Slovenia Anti-Muslim Driving schools incidents soar in France PARIS: The number of anti- told to use four Muslim incidents in France has soared since the Islamist attacks in Paris two weeks ago, an organisation that tracks Islamophobia said yesterday. wheelers too The National Observatory Against Islamophobia said 116 anti-Muslim incidents had been reported to authorities since the No complete ban on trucks in city January 7-9 shooting spree. The two-week tally was more DOHA: The Traffic tunnels across the city. than double the number of inci- Department has asked driving Speaking to the Qatar News dents recorded for the full month schools to familiarise the train- Agency (QNA) on the sidelines of January 2014, the observatory ees with different types of cars, of a seminar on traffic safety at said, reporting 28 attacks on including four wheelers, a sen- the Qatar University, Al Kharji places of worship and 88 threats. ior official has disclosed. said, “Currently we lack bridges The observatory’s president, Most driving schools have been and tunnels for pedestrians and Abdallah Zekri condemned the using small saloon cars to train this is a problem we have been “acts of hatred towards French people seeking a driver’s licence. facing. This is one of the factors people of the Muslim faith, the Brigadier Mohammed Saad Al that makes pedestrian casualties immense majority of whom Kharji, Director of the Traffic higher compared to the number of Qatar’s Memisevic E (left) attempts to score against Slovenia during their Group A match at the 24th Men’s respect the values of the Republic Department said that these schools drivers (dying in road accidents.)” Handball World Championship, yesterday at Lusail Multipurpose Hall, outside Doha. Qatar beat Slovenia 31-29 and secularism.” have been asked to use other types On preventing trucks entering to enter the last 16 stage after a gap of 12 years. (SALIM MATRAMKOT) of cars as well so that a newly Doha, the official said a total ban See also pages 26 and 28 US to urge Cuba to licensed driver should not have is not possible especially when difficulty in driving a bigger car. mega projects are being imple- lift travel curbs Sources from some driving mented in the country. However, schools said yesterday that they the new truck route opened WASHINGTON: The United have started implementing this recently has reduced the number Rebels surround Yemen PM’s house States will urge Cuba to lift travel new directive. “We are now using of trucks entering the city. restrictions and agree to estab- four wheelers, besides the small The official explained that a lishing US and Cuban embassies in saloon cars in training, espe- vehicle can be impounded for SANA’A: Yemen’s power- representatives were talking with assassination attempt. Bahah’s historic talks in Havana this week cially for housemaids,” said a three types of violations — over- ful Houthi movement fought the president. residence, the Republican palace, aimed at restoring diplomatic ties, senior official of a driving school. taking from right, parking in artillery battles with the army “Houthis in meeting with was later cut off. a senior State Department official Housemaids mostly seek a driver’s places designated for people with near the presidential palace in president to agree on terms for “The gunmen have surrounded said yesterday. licence for the purpose of driving disabilities and double parking. Sana’a yesterday, surrounded releasing chief of staff in return the palace and the prime minister The talks from January 21 to 23 cars owned by their employers. Brigadier Mohammed Al the prime minister’s residence for changes in constitution and is inside,” government spokesman will be led by Roberta Jacobson, the Al Kharji also said that primary Malki, Secretary of the National and drew accusations they were national authority,” Information Rajeh Badi said. Two eyewitnesses top US diplomat for Latin America, indicators about death rate in road Traffic Safety Committee, said mounting a coup. Minister Nadia Al Saqqaf said on confirmed the siege. in the first visit to Cuba in 38 years accidents in Qatar in 2014 shows a that 35 percent of the work plan Explosions echoed across the her Twitter account. Government ministers said by a US assistant secretary of decline compared to 2013. The data in the five-year national traffic city and smoke hung over down- Earlier yesterday, Saqqaf said a ceasefire had come into force state. “We are looking forward to will be released soon, he added. safety strategy was implemented town buildings as the most intense Houthi fighters had fired on in the evening after the Houtis the Cubans lifting travel restric- The official said that pedes- in one-and-a-half years. clashes since the Shia Houthi Prime Minister Khaled Bahah’s had seized the state news agency tions, to trying to lift the caps on trian casualties in the country are “There is regular assessment movement seized the capital in motorcade after he left a meeting and television station. Nine peo- the number of our diplomatic per- higher compared to the number every three months to check the September, throwing the fragile with Hadi and a Houthi adviser ple were killed and 90 wounded, sonnel, to trying to gain unimpeded of drivers being killed in road progress in implementation of the Arab state deep into turmoil. that had been called to try to Health Minister Riyadh Yassin shipments for our mission and to accidents. To address this issue, strategy and find out the difficulties In the evening, the govern- resolve bitter disagreements over told state news agency SABA. the free access to our mission by the department in collaboration which may hinder some of the plans ment said a palace in central a draft constitution. Final numbers are likely to be Cubans,” the official said. with the Public Works Authority and suggest solutions,” he said. Sanaa where the prime minis- A Yemeni government spokes- higher. (Ashghal) is working to build a THE PENINSULA ter lives had been encircled by man described the shooting at REUTERS GCHQ captured number of pedestrian bridges and Continued on page 6 Houthi forces and that Houthi Bahah’s armoured convoy as an See also page 10 emails of scribes

LONDON: Britain’s Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ)’s bulk surveillance of Bahrain opposition chief to go on trial for regime change bid electronic communications has scooped up emails to and from journalists working for some of MANAMA: A Bahraini oppo- after leading a protest rally change of the political regime by concern over Salman’s detention The kingdom has been gripped the US and UK’s largest media sition leader will go on trial this against elections that were held force and threats,” it added with and his arrest has sparked pro- by tension since a 2011 uprising organisations, analysis of docu- month on charges of promoting in November and which his party reference to Sheikh Salman’s tests at home. by majority Shias demanding ments released by whistleblower violent regime change, the pub- boycotted. charges. The last demonstration was on reforms and a bigger role in run- Edward Snowden reveals. Emails lic prosecution and his lawyer “Hearing has been set on Defence lawyer Abdallah Al Friday when around 150 protest- ning the Sunni-led country. from the BBC, Reuters, the said yesterday, in a move that 28/1/2015 before the high criminal Shamlawi said in a Twitter mes- ers clashed with security forces Authorities quelled that revolt Guardian, the New York Times, could further inflame tensions court,” Bahrain’s public prosecu- sage that Salman was facing four in Manama. At least two people with support from other mem- Le Monde, the Sun, NBC and the in the kingdom. tion posted on its Twitter account. charges including promoting were wounded by tear gas canis- ber states of the Gulf Cooperation Washington Post were saved by Sheikh Ali Salman, head of “Criminal prosecution for a politi- regime change by force. ters, and Al Wefaq sent journal- Council but sporadic unrest has GCHQ and shared on the agen- the Al Wefaq Islamic Society, cal association ... on charges of Washington, a close ally of ists photographs of men wounded continued. cy’s intranet as part of a test was arrested on December 28 promoting the overthrow and Bahrain, has expressed deep by bird shot. REUTERS exercise. AGENCIES

Temperature EU to appeal court ruling to fall further today: Met office taking Hamas off terror list DOHA: After a chilly evening BRUSSELS: The European pending a judgment by the Court yesterday, the temperature is Union said yesterday it would of Justice. The General Court likely to fall further today. The appeal against an EU court rul- found that the decision to sanc- minimum temperature is likely ing that the Palestinian group tion Hamas, which Israel holds to settle at 12 degrees Celsius in Hamas should be removed from responsible for years of violence Doha. The minimum temperature the bloc’s terrorist list. against it, was based on media recorded last night in Doha was The move was criticised by reports, not considered analysis. 14 degree Celsius, according to Hamas but welcomed by Israel, The EU will challenge the General Qatar Meteorology Department. which had condemned last Court’s finding that the EU must pro- The department has forecast month’s decision by the bloc’s vide evidence that Hamas remains a clouds today and has warned of second-highest tribunal that the terrorist group when it updates its strong winds. A combination of executive had failed to make its terror list as well as the argument strong winds and clouds will lead case for blacklisting the move- that the EU cannot use evidence to colder night. The minimum ment that controls the Gaza Strip. from the Internet, an EU official said. temperature is expected to be EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini said the EU was also in the range of 11 to 13 degree Mogherini noted in a statement studying “other appropriate remedial Celsius while maximum tempera- that the General Court made its actions” it could take to avoid similar ture is likely to be 18 to 19 degree ruling on procedural grounds. As court decisions in future removing Celsius. a result of the appeal, Hamas will groups from the terrorism list. THE PENINSULA remain on the EU’s terrorism list REUTERS See also page 3 Municipal workers remove rain water from a road in Doha yesterday. QNA and its assets will remain frozen See also page 7 TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 02 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME

Participants at the session.

www.swiss-belhotel.com Tel Fax QF holds orientation session

Tel Fax for Doha Youth Forum DOHA: Qatar Foundation environmental crimes, among Dr Khalid Al Khanji, Deputy sessions on issues. Supervising (QF), in coordination with others. Head, Students’ Affairs, tutors explained to students Tel Preparatory Committee for He also spoke about Qatar’s HBKU, called on youth to use the role they can play and the Fax 13th United Nation Congress efforts to make the upcoming the forum in making their issues to be discussed. on Crime Prevention and congress successful through voice heard, asserting that the Dimitri expressed optimism Criminal Justice, organised visits to countries to unite forum will discuss the same about students’ preparations an orientation session for stu- visions on the issues on the issues discussed by the 13th for the forum and said they are Tel + 974 44298888 dents participating in Doha agenda. congress. willing to provide the congress Youth Forum from April 7 Dimitri Vlassis, Head, Shiekha Amal bint Thamir with great ideas. Fax to 9, coinciding with the UN Corruption Prevention and Al Thani, CEO, Health, Safety, “I was surprised by two Congress. Economic Crimes, UNODC, Security and Environment, things. First, the diversity in Speakers welcomed the stu- praised efforts of Qatar and QF, highlighted QF’s efforts students nationalities and aca- Tel dents at the session at Hamad its preparatory committee to enhance students’ capabili- demic professions and, second, Bin Khalifa University’s to organise the congress and ties in many aspects of life, and their determination to discuss Fax Students’ Center. stressed that it can’t be suc- the importance of the forum in the issues provided in sessions The Deputy Head, cessful without political deter- providing students with oppor- seriously. Preparatory Committee of the mination by all participating tunity to enhance knowledge The forum is a Qatari ini- Tel 13th Congress, Ambassador nations. and gain experiences. tiative for the first time in Fax Ahmed Hassan Al Hammadi, He also praised Qatar’s will- Jassim Telfet said QF’s the history of UN crime con- briefed the students on ingness to make the congress a efforts complement those gresses, which is organised by UN’s Crime Prevention and point for start, and not a point exerted by the Ministry of the preparatory committee of Criminal Justice Congresses of arrival, and said the world is Interior to provide security for the 13th Congress and QF. Tel and their importance in gath- changing fast, which requires all in Qatar and to make the The congress will be held Fax ering experts and practitioners from the international commu- congress successful. at Qatar National Convention to unite international efforts nity to join hands to achieve the Students formed three Center from April 12 to 19. www.doha.hilton.com against cybercrimes and post-2015 development goals. groups and had separate THE PENINSULA

Tel 44233333 974+ Fax 44233000 974+ Qataris prefer construction industry to work

DOHA: Construction is the Morocco and Tunisia. property, and 38 percent want rather be an employee than an most preferred industry to The survey showed that to spend more time with family. entrepreneur — though 39 per- work for Qatar residents while around seven in 10 respondents Eight in 10 (83 percent) Qatar cent would like to have their oil, gas and petrochemicals is in Mena have set professional respondents feel positive about own businesses. the most preferred for resi- goals, with 26 percent having 2015. In Qatar, 52 percent of Tel dents of Mena (Middle East long-term ambitions to achieve Financial issues are the top respondents would prefer to be and North Africa) region, in the next five years. The worry for 51 percent of Mena an employee compared to 30 Fax said the Bayt.com Career most common goals are to get respondents and 53 percent of percent who would rather have Aspirations in the Middle a higher salary (54 percent), a Qatar respondents. their own businesses. East and North Africa survey. new job (53 percent), and learn In Qatar, this is followed by The preferred industry to The study was conducted new skills (52 percent). career path uncertainty (38 work in, according to Qatar Tel by Bayt.com and YouGov, In Qatar, 71 percent of percent) and work-life balance respondents, is construction. Fax a research and consulting respondents have set pro- (31 percent). The ideal retire- The top three factors most organisation. fessional goals they want to ment age for Qatar respond- important to Qatar respondents Data was collected online achieve, the top three of which ents is considered after 60 when selecting their jobs are from last December 3 to 10, echo those of the region. (37 percent), in line with the salary and benefits (84 percent), Tel with 8,963 respondents from In terms of personal goals thinking of 43 percent of Mena opportunities for career growth Fax the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, for 2015, 73 percent of Qatar respondents. (64 percent) and job security (27 Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, respondents want to save more Four in 10 (42 percent) percent). Syria, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, money, 37 percent want to buy respondents across Mena would THE PENINSULA

Tel Al Rawabi Mini Hypermarket opens Fax Shura Council Tel reviews Qatar Fax urban plan

Tel DOHA: The Advisory Council Fax held its weekly meeting under the Speaker, Mohamed bin Mubarak Al Khulaifi. It reviewed a memoran- dum from the Cabinet General Secretariat to the Ministry of Municipality and Urban Planning on the council’s recommendations on Qatar’s comprehensive urban Tel plan; and a memorandum from Fax the Cabinet General Secretariat to the Ministry of Interior on the council’s recommendations to ease traffic congestion in Doha. Tel The council also discussed a Fax report by the cultural and media affairs committee on a draft law regulating sports clubs and www.marriottmarquisdoha.com decided to refer it to the panel for further study. Tel + 974 44195000 Meanwhile, the council’s finan- Fax + 974 44195100 cial and economic affairs com- mittee met under Rapporteur Sheikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Ali Al Thani, Director, Umm Salal Municipality, recently inaugurated Al Rawabi Mohamed Ajaj Al Kubaisi and Mini Hypermarket in Umm Salal Mohammed in the presence of Sheikh Hamed bin Thani bin Mohammed studied a draft law on commer- bin Jassim Al Thani, Sheikh Khalid Hassan Abdu Raheman Al Thani and Al Rawabi Group Managing cial, industrial and public stores Director, Mohammed Abdulla M. P., Managing Partner Mohammed Sadikh, Administration Manager, and vendors and decided to sub- Mohammed Jamsheer, and other officials. mit a report to the council. QNA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 03 Sharq Crossing project Rains flood Doha roads, cause traffic chaos

DOHA: Slippery roads and may miss FIFA bus water-logging following heavy rains and gusty winds yester- DOHA: Qatar’s prestigious MEED said. day slowed down traffic, leading Sharq Crossing Project is likely The move may be initially congestion on roads. to miss its schedule as authori- regarded as negative, but as work The wet conditions brought ties have decided to prioritise on projects continues to ramp up traffic to a standstill in most parts the projects the country needs this year, it should be regarded of Doha, with motorists forced to for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. as a positive move. manoeuvre through water. Sharq Crossing reportedly The report said Sharq Most roads in the Industrial failed to find its place in the Crossing delay is good for Qatar. Area were affected and some government’s priority list, the The delay in its construction will areas were flooded, said a Karwa business intelligence publication give some respite to Doha’s over- taxi driver who identified himself MEED reports. heating constructions sector. as Abdullah. Unveiling the ambitious engi- With the simultaneous launch “I have two regular clients to neering project in 2013, Public of mega projects, contractors pick up in the Industrial Area in Works Authority (Ashghal) had face the risk of dealing with the morning and bring them to said the 12km series of under- severe price inflation, materials their work place in Doha. water tunnel and bridges con- shortages and other supply chain “Usually, we are always on time necting Doha’s key centres is issues as the market attempts to but today we were late because of expected to start work some time deliver too much too quickly. rain and water-logging. in 2015. The multi-billion-riyal Construction companies will “It was a hassle to get to their project was expected to be com- undoubtedly rue the work they homes and another to drive back pleted in 2021, a year before the will lose out on this year, but at to Doha with traffic moving very FIFA event. the same time, the firms already slowly.” ‘The inevitable has started to working in Doha will welcome He said there were minor acci- happen. Doha has started to pri- attempts to cool a market that dents, mostly because motorists oritise the projects it needs for is stretching the supply chain could not control their vehicles the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and to the limit. The supply chain on the slippery roads. These acci- has begun delaying non-essen- will continue to be tested this dents also delayed traffic. tial infrastructure schemes... year as more essential projects Authorities used social net- The first major casualty is the continue to be built, such as the works to warn people to take pre- $12bn Sharq Crossing scheme. main stadiums and key transport cautions while driving as rains, The iconic project, designed by schemes such as major highways strong winds hit different parts Workers draining out floodwater from a road in Doha yesterday. Spain’s Santiago Calatrava, was and the Doha Metro, which will of the country. expected to be the postcard pic- be used to ferry visiting football “It takes longer to apply the account, including urging motor- tail lights, check the wipers and there were strong winds and ture that tourists would flock to fans around the city. brake on wet roads than on dry ists to co-operate with traffic replace them if old, check that high waves in the sea with winds see when visiting Doha in 2022”, THE PENINSULA roads. Keep a little more than police to prevent accidents and tyres have enough tread, not be blowing from 12-22 knots to up usual space between the vehicles,” congestion on the roads. distracted by mobile phones, wear to 30 in some areas along the sea. the Ministry of Interior posted on The ministry also advised the seat belt, not to speed and He said there was poor visibil- its English Tweeter account. motorists to maintain space other rules. ity in some areas due to the fog More messages were posted between cars, make them more According to an official from in the morning. Leshta Festival opens on the ministry’s Arabic Tweeter visible by turning on head and the Meteorological Department, THE PENINSULA at Katara on Thursday DOHA: Katara will launch play on winter in the country the second annual Leshta and the people’s interest on stars, Festival on Thursday at Katara their locations and effect on peo- Beachfront. ple’s daily lives. It aims to remind 18 Qatari women graduate The five-day festival will see people of Qatari traditional life the participation of several cen- and document its social history. tres and institutions, includ- Science and skills workshops to ing Childhood Cultural Centre, improve children’s knowledge will Doha Youth Centre, Qatar also be organised along with those Heritage and Identity Centre, on agriculture in which children from Springboard course Gannas Association, Al Ghalayel will be taught how to identify Championship, Katara Cultural various types of seeds and their Market and Bin Muftah Medical uses in addition to steps and tools DOHA: Eighteen Qatari Polyclinic, in addition to tradi- in agriculture. women from poor families have tional bands and Al Adam Harley. Story-reading sessions and tra- graduated from the fourth Katara General Manager, Dr ditional games will be held and Springboard course on empow- Khalid Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, said visitors will be introduced to tra- erment organised by Qatar Red Katara is keen to diversify its ditional Qatari and Arab cuisine. Crescent (QRC) in cooperation events to attract different seg- Children will also enjoy sculp- with British Council in Qatar ments of society such as the tures made from sand from 3pm and Springboard UK. Leshta Festival which offers to 5pm throughout the festival The fourth batch of trainees a combination of culture and days, the best five of which will attended the programme under entertainment. be awarded prizes, in addition to the theme ‘Make Your Future by The participation of institu- Arabic games in which children Yourself’. tions reflects the openness of are to assemble alphabets and It aimed to achieve professional, Katara to work with institutions images. economic and social empower- to achieve public satisfaction by Katara FM Radio will organ- ment of Qatari women as part providing quality cultural activi- ise a contest for the public from of the human development pillar ties, he added. “The festival tar- Thursday to Saturday from 4pm of Qatar National Vision 2030, gets children and students whom to 5pm. Questions about Katara QRC said yesterday. The women we are inviting to attend activities will be asked and those who give were taught by Instructor Rana throughout the festival,” he said. the correct answers will receive Marawan Al Qatami over four Childhood Cultural Centre will prizes. The term ‘Leshta’ is tra- weeks at Millennium Hotel Doha. participate with a village com- ditionally used to mean winter With its four courses so far held Four of the graduates with their certificates during the closing ceremony of the course. prising five houses with activities which people eagerly anticipate at a cost of QR148,000, the pro- and displays to match children’s to engage in activities, includ- gramme has received 72 women apply them in their careers,” said of individual capabilities and skills. attain their potential at work interests and age. ing desert trips for hunting and from low-income families. Rashid bin Saad Al Mohannadi, Al Moallem said the course is and in life. It serves institutions, Qatar Heritage and Identity entertainment. “We are proud to graduate the Director, QRC Social Development effective in developing women’s universities, government bureaus, Centre will present a theatrical THE PENINSULA fourth batch of 18 women of our Department and Al Khor Branch. skills and making them more ministries, municipalities and low-income families. I would like Hanadi Al Moallem, Head of interactive and open towards their banks, including the British to thank British Council, which Empowerment, QRC said the society, and even better contribut- Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is a leading training institution, QRC-British Council partnership ing to its inputs and influencing and HSBC Bank. Qatar-France relations reviewed our low-income families for mak- helps advance low-income families its outputs. The council translated it into DOHA: The Advisory Council Speaker, Mohamed bin Mubarak Al ing the programme a success and and empower them to face chal- Springboard is a women-cen- Arabic to help Arabic-speaking Khulaifi, yesterday met French Ambassador Eric Chevallier and QRC staff for their efforts. lenges in the labour market, which tred programme that has won women discover their capabilities discussed parliamentary relations between the two countries and “I hope that the graduates will are rapidly changing due to the global awards for enabling women and make more achievements per- cooperation between the council and French parliamentary institu- benefit from the experience and dramatic developments worldwide. in many countries to have more sonally and professionally. tions. QNA knowledge they have gained and This requires continuous updating appreciation and influence and THE PENINSULA Armed forces attend mobility innovations and solutions workshop DOHA: Qatar Mobility environment. Innovations Center (QMIC) The workshop was the first organised a workshop for the in a series to be held by QMIC Qatar Armed Forces on mobil- with departments of the armed ity innovations and solutions at forces to identify collaboration Qatar Science and Technology and partnership in the areas Park (QSTP). of mobility innovations and to Abdulla Zaid Al Talib, become self-sufficient in the field Chairman, QMIC, highlighted of technology. the role QMIC is playing to real- It introduced the armed forces’ ise a knowledge-based economy top officials to QMIC’s innova- in collaboration with key national tions such as Masarak (intelligent entities. He also highlighted on transport and logistics manage- the role of innovations and knowl- ment system), Hawa’ak (envi- edge creation in realising Qatar’s ronment monitoring system), vision. Connected Vehicles (a futuristic Brigadier General Nasser V2V and V2X technology ena- Abdullah Al Sulaiti, Commander, bling the next generation of Road Joaan Bin Jassem College for Safety) and an overview on the Officials from Qatar Mobility Innovations Center and officers of Qatar Armed Forces at the workshop at Qatar Science and Technology Park. Leadership, reviewed the objec- Labeeb Internet of Things (IoT) tives of the military forces from platform. to engage and partner with key like-minds come together to pro- Jassem Military College for the workshop. the workshop and emphasised “Our mission is to have our national organisations to facilitate mote local R&D and put locally Leadership, Emiri Navy, Air Based on the outcomes of the their interest in learning more R&D efforts result in creating development and market deliv- built innovations to serve the Force, Land Force, Ahmed Bin series, a plan for establishing about QMIC’s initiatives and national assets, which can play ery of innovative systems and needs of the armed forces,” said Mohammed Military College and innovations partnership between innovative solutions in areas, a role in supporting the needs solutions. Dr Adnan Abu-Dayya, Executive information systems, security, the armed forces and QMIC will including telematics/logistics of market segments and mega “The workshop is a manifes- Director and CEO, QMIC. environment and other depart- be prepared. management, road safety and projects. Our strategy has been tation of our strategy where the Top officers from Joaan Bin ments the armed forces attended THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 04 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME QU names module contest winners DOHA: Qatar University’s Digital library to add Center for Advanced Materials (CAM) has announced the win- ners of the eighth cycle of its ‘I am Discovering Materials’ module. A total of 430 students pre- one million pages sented their ideas and 88 prod- ucts were evaluated by a panel of RasGas Head of Well Work and Focus on Islamic world, Arab culture and Gulf history Completion Engineering, Fahad Al Qadi, Director of Research DOHA: Over one million pages & Cultural Studies Department of rare, historical documents on at Ministry of Culture, Arts the Islamic world, Arab culture and Heritage, Dr Marzook bin and the Gulf’s history will be Marzook, Qatar Shell Outreach shared with the public through & University Collaboration Qatar National Library’s (QNL) Manager, Maha Sultan Al online Qatar Digital Library Mannai, Secretary-General of (QDL). Qatari National Committee for The digitisation of these docu- Education, Culture and Science, ments in the next four years is part Hamda Al Sulaiti, Qatar Rail of the second phase of partner- CEO, Saad Al Muhannadi, ship between Qatar Foundation Qapco Learning & Development (QF), QNL and British Library Manager, Abdulla Naji, and QPI announced yesterday. Gas Technologies Manager, Idrees The next stage of the col- Mustafa. laboration, which will last until The winners were: Art in Science December 2018, follows on from — Al Khor Independent Secondary the initial partnership announced School for Girls (Group Dalton); in 2012 which has raised aware- Best Poster — Al Bayan Complex Students watch one of the projects at the event. ness of Gulf and Middle Eastern for Girls (Group Geniuses); history. RasGas Al Bairaq — Al Khor Maadeed, said: “Al Bairaq con- We are pleased to continue sup- QDL will add an additional Independent Secondary School tributes to fostering scientific porting this programme and our 970,000 pages from the India for Girls (Group Gold); Most development by promoting scien- judges are impressed by the level Office Records dating from the Active Social Media — Al Shamal tific culture and research to solve of innovation and creativity exhib- mid-18th century to 1951 and Independent Secondary School for problems and achieve a sustain- ited by the students.” historical maps and photographs. Girls (Group Altatweer); Most able development.” Maersk Oil Qatar Deputy It will also include 56,000 pages Popular Social Media — Arwa RasGas Head of National Managing Director, Sheikh of Arab Islamic sciences manu- Bint Abdulmotaleb Independent Development, Thamer Al Kaabi, Faisal bin Fahad Al Thani, said: scripts, and about 100,000 pages Secondary School for Girls (Group said: “RasGas is committed to “Scientific and technical educa- from private papers, includ- Stars); InstaBairaq Social Media proactively meeting the need for tion as well as research and inno- ing those of Lady Anne Blunt, A photograph of Doha provided by British Royal Air Force from the file ‘Air- — Al Khor Independent Secondary engaging Qatari high school stu- vation are closely aligned with our thought to be the first woman to route to India: Arab coast route; emergency landing ground at Qatar’. (1934) School for Girls (Group AL_Khor_ dents in applied sciences, engi- commitment to develop skills and cross the Arabian Desert in the Gold8). Prizes were also given for neering and mathematics, which capacity of future generations to 19th century. the Gulf and Arab and Islamic world to advance knowledge and Most Cooperative Teachers and are essential to ensure a long- achieve a diversified and healthy Following digitisation, the history and culture. The project is mutual understanding. The goal Best Participant School. term development of their edu- knowledge-based economy.” material will be added to QDL a testament to QF’s commitment of the collaborative project with CAM Director, Dr Mariam Al cational and professional future. THE PENINSULA which originated out of the first to foster greater understanding QNL is to create a 21st century phase of the partnership and was of Qatar’s heritage and share the online library to transform the launched in October 2014. collection of resources with the study of the modern history of QDL provides students, whole world.” the Gulf and Arabic science.” Falcon festival contest postponed researchers and the general pub- “The partnership aims to Richard Gibby, Head, British lic in any part of the world with explore and raise awareness Library-QF Partnership, said, DOHA: The organising committee of the sixth The committee said the decision to defer the con- free online access to over half a about the history of the Gulf and “Our goal in launching QDL was Qatar Falcons and Hunting Festival postponed test was to give the same chance to all participants. million pages of historic archive the wider region while creating to create a resource which will the first round of Dau competition yesterday due The first round of Dau has been moved to Friday and manuscript materials. one of the world’s most ambi- advance world knowledge and to bad weather conditions. The venue in Sabkhat morning. The committee has urged participants to It received exceptional reac- tious and accessible resources for understanding of the Gulf’s cul- Marmi in Mesaieed yesterday experienced strong be at the venue at 6am. Meanwhile, it has announced tions from the online community studies into Gulf history and Arab tural heritage. winds and blowing dust which forced the organis- that the free Qarnas competition will be held this with nearly 780,000 page views in Islamic sciences,” said Dr Claudia “The second phase of our ers to remove the tents and turn off the generators. evening. THE PENINSULA the first month. Lux, Project Director, QNL. partnership will add depth and Saad Al Muhannadi, President, Roly Keating, Chief Executive, breadth, stimulating new research QF, said, “The planned new British Library, said, “One of the and enabling new discoveries,” materials will preserve and add purposes of British Library is to Gibby added. insights into the history of Qatar, work with partners across the THE PENINSULA

Ministry inspectors attend training

Inspectors attending the training programme.

DOHA: The Ministry of granted to the inspectors to curb and private properties, and rules Municipality and Urban encroachments. for reconciliation in case of Planning has launched a week- The participants were briefed violations. long training programme on how to catch violations and Trainees have been given for its inspectors monitor- complete paper work. practical lessons by taking them ing encroachments of public They have also been educated to field visits to show them properties. on liabilities and inspection talent. encroachments, how to catch The programme includes They are being taught the law violations, and deal with violators. lectures on judicial powers No. 10 of 187 regarding public THE PENINSULA

Alert over use of CCTV cameras DOHA: Experts have cau- violation of individuals’ privacy. Director of one of the companies tioned people against excessive Some families hesitate to visit dealing in cameras, said demand use of closed-circuit television relatives because of cameras in for CCTV cameras has risen in (CCTV) cameras by installing their homes and are uncomfort- the last few years. them in every part of house. able by knowing that their activi- Prices start from QR150 and Psychologists told Al Raya that ties would be recorded. reach QR15,000 depending on installing too many cameras may Psychologists advise that cam- the quality of cameras and their violate the privacy of guests and eras should be installed in the capacity to store data. teenagers. They not only make rooms of children who are very Hasan Sharif, a Qatari, said it guests uncomfortable but also young and at the entrance. is better to respect individuals’ create distrust between parents People say cameras have privacy and the cameras should and teenagers. become necessary because par- be installed only at main hall and Recording every activity of ents want to keep a watch on corridors. teenagers will make them believe their maids and servants. Cameras are instrumental in that their parents do not trust The reason behind increased checking crime against children them. sale of camera is rising crime by maids and servants. Mae Al Marrisi, a psycholo- against children and the trend of Now, small cameras are also gist, said excessive use of cam- parents staying out of home for available in the market which can era by installing them at every long hours. secretly record servants’ activi- place, even in maids’ rooms, is a Majeed Al Ali, Executive ties. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 HOME www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 05 Dentons Law Firm honours Sheikh Thani 2014 Dentons Award for Social Impact recognises his global social, humanitarian and charitable projects DOHA: Sheikh Thani bin of Dentons which concluded that school, a central laundry, a water centres. Abdullah Al Thani has added he fully deserves the award. well and separate bathing facili- another achievement to his long This is an unrecorded prize by ties for men and women. Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Al list of exceptional undertakings Dentons to Sheikh Thani for his There is a plan to implement 40 Thani Foundation for Integrated by receiving the 2014 Dentons exceptional social and humanitar- projects in these villages in differ- Projects Award for Social Impact. ian achievements echoing across ent fields, including agriculture, Sheikh Thani is the Founder It was presented to him in rec- the globe. industry, livestock, bakeries, sew- of Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah ognition of his accomplishments, The CEO of Dentons Middle ing workshops and charity cen- Al Thani Foundation to support contributions and well-known East, Safwan Mubayyidin, said, tres. This will be done through integrated projects. global projects to provide social, “The international award dem- community development by sup- It is a private institution which humanitarian and charitable onstrates the impact of Sheikh plying all basic means of survival serves those with limited income services around the world. Thani’s social and humanitarian to the local population to help by improving their lifestyle Matthew Jones, Global projects for the welfare of the glo- them become self-sufficient. regardless of their religion, race Executive Director, Dentons bal community. Especially that his In Africa, Sheikh Thani or gender. It also offers financial Law Firm, presented the award humanitarian organisations have recently launched a campaign to help, other forms of support and to Sheikh Thani in a special cer- no geographical boundaries in collect money for those affected needed facilities to enable them to emony at Ezdan Hotel. order to reach out and feed the by war and conflicts in Central build a stable, promising future. The president and executive hungry, give to the poor and gen- Africa, with special aid to Chad. Recently Sheikh Thani donated board of directors of Dentons erally extend a hand to those in In Asia, RAF is building QR100m through this organisa- Law Firm Middle East (their first need regardless of their affilia- orphanages in India at a cost of tion to support those who have office globally), senior executives, tions and backgrounds.” around QR2.79m. valuable and creative ideas for employees and administrators He said the 225-year-old trade projects in poor countries. from Sheikh Thani’s social and Dentons is the world’s most pres- The Qatari Association for business organisations, media tigious law firm, with offices in Rehabilitation of Persons with The Association of Friends of professionals and supporters were more than 80 countries. It employs Special Needs Mental Health (Wayyak) present. lawyers of various nationalities Sheikh Thani is the Board Sheikh Thani sponsored a cam- Sheikh Thani expressed happi- and its clients include govern- Chairman of the Qatari paign under the motto, Wayyak ness, especially that the award is ments, international and global Association for Rehabilitation (meaning ‘together’), to launch from a globally-renowned organi- corporations, decisionmakers and of Persons with Special Needs, the Association of Friends of sation, and said, “I am glad and dignitaries. founded in 1992 as a non-profit Mental Health, a charitable honoured to receive the award, charitable organisation. organisation that aims to educate knowing that our humanitar- Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah’s It started work and activities in society on the importance of men- ian and social efforts have been Foundation for Humanitarian the same year. Its goal is to pro- tal health through programmes recognised by a world-renowned Services (RAF) vide social, medical and psycho- and activities directed first-hand organisation. Sheikh Thani’s generosity was logical care for people with special to youth. “This means that we have suc- extended to start non-profit Sheikh Thani bin Abdullah Al Thani receiving the award from Matthew needs through its specialised cen- One of its goals is to provide ceeded by God’s grace to serve the organisations to help the needy Jones, Global Executive Director, Dentons Law Firm, in a special ceremony tres to prepare them profession- better psychological care by poor, the destitute and the needy and the destitute locally, region- at Ezdan Hotel. ally, educationally, psychologically spreading awareness. not only locally and regionally but ally and globally and Sheikh Thani and socially. also globally.” bin Abdullah’s Foundation for health, orphanages and charitable RAF built orphanages for 2,000 The association has several The QR12bn Waqf He said the award and recog- Humanitarian Services (RAF) is organisations helping people with and supported school projects and activities for men and women, Sheikh Thani announced his nition reflects the humanitar- considered the largest non-profit special needs. educational programmes. provided through these centres endorsement of 605,066,037 ian and social perspective people charitable organisation in Qatar. Sheikh Thani’s charitable In Syria, RAF executed dona- run by professionals, experts and shares in charitable contributions should follow regardless of their Sheikh Thani is a major sup- activities have been extended to tion programmes to support specialists in accordance with its to needy people around the globe race or social status. porter of humanitarian and chari- many countries worldwide. These families affected by unfortunate policy to spread awareness among through his allocation from Ezdan This also coincides with the table activities. He established international charitable activities incidents in the past few years people with special needs. Establishment. wise directives of the Qatari lead- RAF under the slogan, ‘Human are numerous and diverse, such and enabled Syrians to remain in The social and cultural centres He established this humanitar- ership who is always advising local mercy is a virtue’. as establishing a university in their homeland. publishes a periodic magazine Al ian initiative for Qatari society by businessmen to contribute to the RAF provides charitable Kenya, building homes for those RAF consistently sent relief Hayah which covers issues related providing a stable income and it world community, he added. activities that go beyond Qatar afflicted by earthquakes and other convoys to the Syrian-Turkish to disability and other matters runs under one of the biggest real Jones said Sheikh Thani is not and helps the needy all over the natural disasters, funding medical border to provide food and medi- related to persons with special estate establishments in the coun- like any other Qatari business- world. Its services include finan- surgeries for the poor worldwide cal care to needy Syrians. needs, including physical reha- try and the region. man but rather a generous human cial support for needy Qatari and and other activities. Sheikh Thani issued orders to bilitation, social, medical, and Sheikh Thani expressed hap- being recognised by his humani- non-Qatari families in addition Sheikh Thani has participated build bakeries, mills and villages. psychological topics. piness about this achievement, tarian and charitable contribu- to educational support and food in the social rehabilitation of He intends to build a housing vil- It is distributed for free to which will serve people globally, tions across the world that were contributions, financial support people affected by the prolonged lage for displaced people. Each vil- miniseries, government agencies, especially the poor and the needy. evaluated by a special committee for projects related to education, civil war in Sri Lanka where lage costs QR3m and includes a national organisations and foreign THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 06 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com HOME Al Attiyah returns with Dakar trophy Al Mazrouah Yard offers Organic vegetables from local farm

DOHA: Organic vegetables offered by a local farm are being sold for the first time at Al Mazrouah Yard, almost at the prices of original produce. The prices of organic vegeta- bles are about five times more than those grown traditionally in local markets (malls and shop- ping complexes) but are available at affordable prices at the yard, said the Ministry of Environment in a statement. Organic produce at the win- ter market are attracting a large number of consumers, especially Arabs and foreigners. The Minister of Youth and Sports H E Salah bin Ghanem bin Nasser Al Ali (second left), with Qatar Rally Team Organic vegetables are natu- ral produce and chemicals are driver and Dakar Rally winner Nasser Al Attiyah (third left), Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani (third right) not used to grow them. They are Secretary-General, Qatar National Olympic Committee, Nasser Khalifa Al Attiya (second right), QMMF President, quality produce with good taste, and other officials with the Dakar Rally trophy. Al Attiyah arrived with the trophy last night. ABDUL BASIT claimed the ministry. A total of 972 tonnes of fresh vegetables and 398 tonnes of fruits have been sold in the past seven weeks at seasonal vegetable Free parking for visitors to ministry markets — Al Mazrouah Yard, Al Khor Yard and Al Wakra Yard. DOHA: In a unique move, The new facility will be avail- the ministry. Fresh meat, fish and chickens the Ministry of Justice has able for visitors to the minis- The ministry also taken steps are also available at Al Mazrouah announced to provide free park- try from 6am to 2pm, Al Sharq in the past to reduce the suffer- Yard and Al Khor and Al Zakhira ing for its visitors at the under- reports. ing of its visitors due to a lack Yard yards offer only fish along Boxes of organic vegetables from Al Safwa Farms at Al Mazrouah Yard. ground parking facility of Doha The ministry is also working of parking spaces in the area. It with fruits and vegetables. Exhibition Center opposite of to provide additional parking signed a deal with Kahramaa to Al Wakra Yard that was opened until January 17, the ministry said. of chickens were sold at Al Wakra ministry building. to meet the growing demand of allot some its parking spaces for this year is offering only fruits Al Mazrouah Yard ranked first Yard (2,868 pieces) followed by Al The move aims to reduce the visitors. visitors to the ministry. and vegetables. with sale of 401 tonnes of fresh Khor and Al Zakhira (1,011 pieces suffering of visitors looking for It has coordinated with the It also signed a contract with Thirty-three tonnes of fresh vegetables, 91 tonnes of fruits, 22 each). spaces for hours to park cars in Ministry of Municipality and Karwa to provide bus services fish, 456 sheep and 4,775 chickens tonnes of fish, 456 sheep and 896 The yards are open from the Tower area of West Bay where Urban Planning and Ashghal to every 15 minutes for its visitors. have been sold at these markets chickens followed by Al Khor and Thursday to Saturday from 7am the ministry is located. allot parking slots for visitors to THE PENINSULA since the beginning of the season Al Zakhira. The highest number to 5pm. THE PENINSULA

The Minister of State for Defence Affairs H E Major General Hamad bin Ali Al Attiyah (left) attending the graduation ceremony and (above) greeting a graduate. 10th batch graduates from military college DOHA: The Ahmed bin Affairs H E Major General In a statement, the Minister we in the Armed Forces are in The college’s military section was held for nine students for Mohamed Military College yes- Hamad bin Ali Al Attiyah, and congratulated the graduates and constant evolution and intend to teaches military and police sci- nearly one year and they obtained terday presented certificates to Qatar Armed Forces Chief of their families from Qatar and establish a maritime college and ences, parachuting and thun- the diploma in military science. the graduates of the 10th batch Staff Major General (Pilot) friendly states and wished them a technical college. derbolt, among others and the The Commander of the college, of officer cadets and military Ghanim bin Shaheen Al Ghanim, success in their careers and in “We are looking forward to academic section teaches disci- Brig. Hamad Ahmed Al Nuaimi, sciences diplomas to university who presented certificates to the the service to their countries. seeing these colleges in the near plines, including business admin- presented commemoration gifts graduates. graduates. “Under directives of the Emir future.” istration, law, accounting and to the Minister and the chief of The ceremony was attended by Several armed forces officers H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad The four-year course was held information systems. staff. the Minister of State for Defence and parents were present. Al Thani to invest in education, for 92 officer cadets. The university graduate course QNA

Lebanon praises QA cargo service to Ahmedabad soon Interpol team visits Qatar’s support DOHA: Qatar Airways Cargo DOHA: The Minister of (QAC) has announced to launch Culture, Arts and Heritage its seventh freighter destination Search & Rescue HQ H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz in India. Al Kuwari yesterday met The new service begins on DOHA: The Director of international tasks it has taken Lebanon’s Grand Mufti Abdul February 3 to Ahmedabad, the Operational Police Support part in. Latif Darian and his delegation. largest city in the western state Directorate at International He said the team took part in Darian praised Qatar’s support of Gujarat, according to a state- Criminal Police Organisation many overseas search and rescue for Lebanon. Talks also dealt with ment yesterday. (Interpol), Michael O’Connell, operations, provided assistance, efforts to promote cultural and The twice weekly Airbus has praised the Qatari search contributed to mitigating the religious dialogue. QNA A330 service will depart Doha and rescue team, which man- impact of crises and disasters on Tuesdays and Fridays with a aged to get international trib- on victims and supported them stop in Mumbai before heading to ute, thanks to its cadres. in various forms. Plan to reduce Ahmedabad. O’Connell led an Interpol team, The most important opera- Departure from Ahmedabad to including Ali Mohammad Al Ali, tions included search and res- traffic death rate Doha is on the same day. Qatar Airways Cargo will begin twice weekly Airbus A330 service to Officer in Project Stadia which cue efforts after earthquakes Continued from page 1 QAC will operate the serv- Ahmedabad on February 3. ensures security at major sport- in Kashmir and Indonesia, in The strategy includes 220 work ice alongside daily passenger ing events, and Rabab Bsieso, Lebanon, and providing aid to plans and over 13 governmental flights the airline operates to Qatar Airways Chief Officer of QR Pharma for pharmaceuti- Operations Assistant at the the people of Gaza, Mauritania, agencies are involved in its imple- Ahmedabad. Cargo, Ulrich Ogiermann, cals and healthcare products and project, visited the Qatari search Haiti and other countries. mentation. The aim is to reduce Ahmedabad has emerged as an said: “We are looking forward QR Fresh for perishable prod- and rescue team premises. During a press conference the death rate in traffic accidents important economic and indus- to commencing operations to ucts; and the migration to the O’Connell said the Qatari on the sidelines of the meeting, to six for every 100,000 people in trial hub in India, and textiles, Ahmedabad, our seventh freighter fully automated cargo facility at team includes an elite group Maj. Al Muhannadi underlined five years. The death rate in 2013 chemicals, automobiles and phar- destination in India. We carry Hamad International Airport. of promising young men who the importance of enhancing was nine for every 100,000 and the maceuticals are some of its major cargo on the lower deck of daily QAC also launched 11 freighter participated in relief and sup- the team’s efficiency through 2014 results will show a further industries. passenger flights to the city and destinations in 2014, including port operations at international advanced training, stressing that decline, he added. It also has a growing biotech- being the only international car- Delhi and Hyderabad in India. level, and in practical exercises training is key to the develop- He said the committee is nology industry with the presence rier to provide freighter services This year the airline has com- and the team also has the best ment of a distinct and integrated working to set up a joint data- of over 50 biotechnology firms and to Ahmedabad, we will be able to menced operations to the Swiss equipment in the field of search work system, and improving the base for traffic accidents under around 66 support organisations. provide more capacity into and city of Basel and launched the and rescue. level of response to all risks and the Ministry of Interior and data The city is renowned as the out of the industrial city and Pharma Express route, linking the Qatar Search and Rescue challenges in and outside Qatar. will be available for all govern- largest supplier of denim and one Gujarat.” pharmaceutical hubs of Brussels Team Officer Maj. Abdullah He highlighted the team’s con- ment agencies concerned. of the largest exporters of gem- The year 2014 was highly pro- and Basel via Doha to the expand- Eid Al Muhannadi highlighted tinuous efforts for UN recogni- THE PENINSULA stones and jewellery. ductive for QAC with the launch ing network. THE PENINSULA the team’s capabilities and tion. THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 MIDDLE EAST www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 07 Iran general killed in Israel’s Golan raid Tehran confirms Allahdadi was with Hezbollah fighters during Israel’s bombing

BEIRUT: An Israeli strike on Syria killed an Iranian general, Tehran confirmed yesterday, as thousands of supporters of Lebanon’s Hezbollah gathered to bury one of six fighters killed in the same raid. The attack on Sunday near Quneitra on the Syrian-controlled side of the Golan Heights enraged Hezbollah’s supporters, but ana- lysts said the group would avoid a major escalation with Israel. Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards confirmed the death of one of their generals in a state- ment on their website. “General Mohammad Ali Allahdadi and a number of fighters and Islamic Resistance (Hezbollah) forces were attacked by the Zionist regime’s helicop- ters,” it said. “This brave general and some members of Hezbollah were martyred.” A source close to Hezbollah said six Iranians had been killed in the attack. Hezbollah said that it was not the source of that toll. Among Hezbollah’s dead was Supporters of Hezbollah carry the coffin of Jihad Imad Mughniyeh, son of late Hezbollah leader Imad Mughniyeh, during his funeral, in a suburb of Beirut, Lebanon, yesterday. RIGHT: Ahmed, Jihad Mughniyeh, the son of an son of Hezbollah commander Mohamad Issa known as Abu Issa, mourns his death in front of his father’s picture in their home in Arab-Salim, south Lebanon. assassinated commander from the group, and Mohammed Issa, “God willing, the resistance see as the fighters’ “martyrdom”. precision Israeli strike, days after like a roadside bomb on the cease- Israel, analysts made the same a commander responsible for will retaliate but the leadership Hezbollah’s Al Manar television Nasrallah’s bellicose remarks, fire line with Israel it claimed last calculation. Hezbollah’s operations in Syria of the resistance will be the one said the six were killed as they stood to embarrass Hezbollah. year, but would avoid a more seri- “Hezbollah doesn’t want a and Iraq. to decide the nature and timing,” carried out reconnaissance. “What happened is that the ous response. full-fledged war,” said Yoram Once solely focused on fight- said Hassana Sadaqa, as she pre- But an Israeli security source Israelis called Hezbollah’s bluff Speaking to reporters at the Schweitzer, a former Israeli mili- ing Israel, Hezbollah is now deeply pared to pay her respects. said an Israeli helicopter car- last night,” said Hilal Khashan, funeral, Mahmud Qmati, a mem- tary counterterrorism chief. involved in the war in neigh- Mourners chanted “Our ried our a strike on “terrorists” a professor of political science ber of Hezbollah’s political bureau, “It has a number of possibilities bouring Syria, where it backs party is Hezbollah, our leader is who were preparing an attack at the American University in said all-out war was unlikely, but to respond in different arenas. We President Bashar Al Assad. Nasrallah” as the coffin was car- on the Jewish state. The strike Beirut. But he said Hezbollah’s that “the war of (limited) strikes, assume that it currently does not With its forces spread thin, and ried through the streets and shots came days after Hezbollah chief response was likely to be limited assassinations and intermittent want full contact,” he said. little appetite in fragile Lebanon were fired into the air. Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah threat- “because if it retaliates, it will be confrontation continues”. Israel occupied parts of for a new conflict with Israel, Mughniyeh was buried in the ened to retaliate against Israel for another war. Hezbollah is in Syria But another Hezbollah official, Lebanon for 22 years until 2000 analysts said Hezbollah would same cemetery as his father Imad, its repeated strikes on targets in and it is not ready for another MP Bilal Farhat, refused to say and the two countries are still seek to respond to the raid with- who was killed in a 2008 car Syria and boasted the movement war against Israel.” what might happen next. “Let’s technically at war. out provoking a full-on war. bombing that Hezbollah blamed was stronger than ever. He touted Walid Charara, an analyst close wait and see,” he said. In 2006, Israel fought a bloody Yesterday afternoon, thou- on Israel. its sophisticated arsenal, includ- to Hezbollah, said he had “no doubt” Lebanese media weighed the war against Hezbollah that sands of mourners gathered As the crowds marched ing Fateh-110 missiles, which have that the group would respond, prospect of conflict, with the Al killed more than 1,200 people in in Hezbollah’s southern Beirut through the streets, residents a range of 200km or more and are either from Lebanese or Syrian Safir newspaper saying Hezbollah Lebanon, mostly civilians, and stronghold for Mughniyeh’s threw confetti down from their capable of hitting much of Israel. territory. Khashan said Hezbollah needed something “more than a some 160 Israelis, mostly soldiers. funeral. balconies, celebrating what they Analysts said the could resort to small-scale attacks, reply and less than a war”. In AFP

Syria starts Salafists protest razing chemical EU appeal to keep us on weapons sites THE HAGUE: Syria has begun terror list immoral: Hamas destroying its remaining chem- ical weapons production sites, GAZA CITY: Palestinian Federica Mogherini said. the blacklist on several grounds. despite being hampered by bad Islamist movement Hamas Israel, which slammed the Israel’s closest ally the United weather and logistical problems, slammed as “immoral” yester- December ruling, said it was not States has urged the EU to keep the world’s chemical watchdog day an EU appeal to keep it surprised about the EU’s latest up its sanctions on Hamas, saying said yesterday. on the bloc’s terror blacklist, a move. the US position had “not changed” “Destruction operations month after a European court “It’s not a surprise, we’re and Hamas is still a “designated commenced in December,” ordered its removal. happy. We expected them to do foreign terrorist organisation”. Organisation for the Prohibition “The European Union’s insist- this in the first place,” a foreign Hamas fired thousands of rock- of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) ence on keeping Hamas on the ministry official said on condition ets at Israel during a 50-day war spokesman Peter Sawczak said in list of terrorist organisations is of anonymity. last summer in which the Jewish The Hague, without elaborating. an immoral step, and reflects “We do expect that they will state pounded Gaza with thou- Syria had said previously the EU’s total bias in favour of correct this procedural error that sands of its own strikes. demolition of the 12 hangars and the Israeli occupation,” Hamas was identified,” he added. The war killed nearly 2,200 tunnels would begin in November, spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri said. The ruling by the EU’s second Palestinians, mostly civilians, but work stalled when the con- “It provides it (Israel) with the highest court had said that the and 73 on the Israel side, mostly tractor pulled out. cover for its crimes against the blacklisting of Hamas in 2001 soldiers. Two other Syrian companies Palestinian people,” he added. was based not on sound legal The EU ministers were meet- were given the project but the Foreign ministers from the 28 judgements but on conclusions ing in Brussels to discuss how to firm tasked with destroying five EU member states decided at a derived from the media and the boost cooperation in the face of a Hamas policemen push back Palestinian Salafists during a protest against tunnels had to wait for deliver- meeting to appeal the decision Internet. growing Islamist militant threat the printing of satirical sketches of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be ies of explosives and equipment, taken by the General Court of Hamas, which has dominated following deadly Paris attacks and upon him) by French satirical weekly Charlie Hebdo, on their way to the Syria told the United Nations in the European Union on December the Gaza Strip since 2007, had anti-terror raids in Belgium. French Cultural Centre in Gaza city yesterday. November, after running months 17, the bloc’s foreign policy chief appealed against its inclusion on AFP behind schedule. The OPCW, which is oversee- ing the dismantling of Syria’s chemical weapons programme, in July gave Damascus 60 days to finish demolishing the sites. EU to launch anti-terror projects “The destruction has began. They are starting on the tun- nels,” confirmed a Hague-based source yesterday, asking not to with Arab nations and Turkey be named. “There was a bit of a delay on BRUSSELS: The EU wants Mogherini said the 28-nation security issue, it covers the intel- the pouring of cement because of to launch counter-terrorism bloc agreed on the need to share lectual, cultural, media and reli- the snow,” the source added, say- projects with Arab nations and intelligence “not only with the gious spheres and that is what we ing “they aim to tackle one tunnel with Turkey in coming weeks EU but also with other countries are trying to get,” he said. each month.” to boost cooperation following around us.” Europe is on high alert after Syria’s UN Ambassador Bashar the Paris attacks, foreign policy This would include not just three French gunmen killed Jaafari has said the destruction chief Federica Mogherini said nations around the Mediterranean 17 people at the Charlie Hebdo process will be completed by June. yesterday. and in the Arab world, but also as satirical magazine and a Jewish Syria finished disabling the “We are looking at specific far afield as Asia, she said. supermarket in Paris earlier this production sites by October projects to launch in the com- “Terrorism and terrorist month, claiming they were act- 2013, however the structures ing weeks with some specific attacks are targeting most of ing on behalf of Al Qaeda and that house them still needed to countries to increase the level of all Muslims in the world so we the Islamic State group. Two be destroyed. cooperation on counter-terror- need an alliance,” Mogherini told suspected militants were also A total of 1,300 metric tonnes ism, and I would name Turkey, reporters. killed in a police raid in Belgium of chemical weapons have been Egypt, Yemen, Algeria and the “We need to strengthen our on Thursday. removed from Syria, with the Gulf countries,” she told a news way of cooperating together, first Many of the ministers will meet majority being destroyed aboard conference. of all with Arab countries but also again on Thursday in London the US Navy ship MV Cape Ray. The European Union would internally. The threat is not only when US Secretary of State John After an August 2013 sarin also send “security attaches” the one we faced in Paris but also Kerry co-hosts talks with some 20 attack outside Damascus that to the bloc’s delegations in the spreading in many other parts of countries, including Arab states. much of the international com- EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini (right) exchanges documents Muslim world to develop anti- the world.” The EU meeting was to prepare munity blamed on President with Arab League chief Nabil Al Arabi after they signed a memorandum terror policies, Mogherini said Al Arabi said that “every coun- for a special European summit on Bashar Al Assad’s government, of understanding between the European external action service and the after meetings with Arab League try in the world is suffering from February 12 dedicated to fighting the regime agreed to turn over general secretariat of the Arab league at the EU headquarters in Brussels Chief Nabil Al Arabi and EU for- terrorism.” terrorism. its chemical arsenal. AFP yesterday. eign ministers. “It is not just a military or AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 08 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com

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HE probe into the AirAsia QZ8501 crash yesterday Cartoon Arts International / The New York Times Syndicate declared that there was no evidence to suggest that terrorism had any role to play in the incident that Tshook the aviation scene and raised fresh questions about air safety in the southeast Asian region. The Indonesian probe has deciphered the cockpit voice recorder of the plane that crashed in the Java Sea with 162 people on board. The goose named Putin keeps The investigators, at least at this stage, are going by what they hear after transcribing the cockpit voice recorder. It has been said that there are no noises to suggest that there was a laying more golden eggs terror threat. Investigator Andreas Hananato said no terrorism was involved “because if there were terrorism, there would have BY LEONID BERSHIDSKY been a threat of some kind.” that expects politicians to own assets and where the state’s importance both The plane was flying from Surabaya in Indonesia to only in Russia. He is, however, a wealthy as a regulator and as the owner of the Singapore and disappeared from radar screens an hour into ere’s a story that sheds man: His company makes car licence most lucrative assets keeps growing, the two-hour flight on December 28 amid rough weather. The some light on why Russian plates and all kinds of official stationery these men know they have to be part President Vladimir Putin is used by Russian government agencies. of the system to keep and increase their pilot had asked air traffic controllers permission to climb to so firmly entrenched as his Ponomarev is not one of Russia’s wealth. 38,000 feet from 32,000. The plane was the lowest one flying H country’s ruler and sole serious decision richest men, nor even one of the 15 After 14 years of Putin’s rule, such in the region and the pilot’s request was prompted by stormy maker. It has to do with the vast wealth “Government Order Kings” named bureaucrat-burghers have a strong weather. AirAsia is a Malaysia-owned low-cost carrier and even his low-level allies — not to men- annually by the Russian edition of Forbes sense of entitlement. Sunday, Vladimir the crash came as the country was smarting with two air tion his inner circle — have been able magazine. That is perhaps good for him: Yakunin, a Putin friend who runs disasters within a space of few months. Malaysia Airlines Flight to accumulate while he’s been in power. Some of the people on top of that list Russia’s railroad monopoly, said he London tabloid the Daily Mail has are also on sanctions lists in the US and might quit his job and go into private MH370 disappeared an hour into flight from Kuala Lumpur been writing about Russian President Europe. Ponomarev’s main business, business if the government follows early last year and investigators are yet to find its wreckage Vladimir Putin’s fully dependent on the government’s lar- through on its threat to have all state after a vaunted multi-nation search. To aggravate the woes of Spanish villa gesse, doesn’t require exclusive access to companies publish the incomes of their the beleaguered carrier, another since 2012, when Putin. It’s enough that Ponomarev sup- top managers. The finding Malaysia Airlines plane was shot Vladimir Yakunin, a British contrac- ports the pro-Putin United Russia party, “This is illegal interference with my down over Ukraine under suspicious tor working in the and his fish business in Kamchatka is personal life, with my information,” ritzy Marbella the party’s major donor in the region. Yakunin told state television. “We are that AirAsia circumstances later in the year. a Putin friend area attributed The parliament seat is just a tangible a natural monopoly, we live according QZ8501 didn’t Now that the probe into the who runs the palatial build- sign of his relative importance in the to decisions taken by the state, so we AirAsia crash has purportedly ing, then under Russian establishment. make as much as the state allows us go down cleared the air, at least to some Russia’s railroad construction, to And yet his house on the Costa del Sol to make.” extent, Malaysian authorities know Putin. The last is, in the eyes of locals and British jour- That’s quite a lot. According to a monopoly, said Daily Mail readers nalists, “fitting for a king... or Russian Navalny investigation, Yakunin’s chil- because of that it wasn’t terror that caused heard about it just president,” as the Daily Mail wrote. dren control a network of firms that terrorism the crash. Investigators came out he might quit his a week ago was Men like Ponomarev number in the do business with the railroad monopoly. with the interim findings after job and go into that the Russian thousands. Their names are hardly ever It’s tempting to theorise that these would come transcribing half of the cockpit leader was plant- in newspapers. Many of the husbands people could overthrow Putin in a palace as a relief to voice recorder. “We didn’t hear any private business ing a vineyard on of “The 50 Richest Wives of Russian coup now that Russia’s a poorer country sounds of gunfire or explosions. the estate. The Officials” are obscure men from the and Western sanctions threaten their if the government Spanish press, too, middle layer of the Russian govern- wealth. Everything they own, however, Malaysia. For the time being,based on that, has had a lot of ment hierarchy who, according to their is only theirs because “the state” has we can eliminate the possibility of follows through fun with the Putin income declarations, aren’t rich at all allowed them to have it. Any change terrorism,” said an investigator. on its threat to mansion story. (owning property is what wives, sons that might upset the balance of “the However, in keeping with Indonesian laws, the probe can’t Now it appears and daughters, and often more distant state” would mean making new deals, reveal what happened during the final moments of the flight. have all state that that the relatives, are for). It is their Bentleys forging new allegiances, and potentially This sounds quirky as the final moments before the crash are home and the and Porsches that still zip through losing lucrative commissions and assets companies vineyard had Moscow traffic in these lean times, to hungrier newcomers. The United crucial to determining what was behind the disaster. nothing to do with and it’s their villas that investigative Russia crowd already has its hands full The National Transportation Safety Committee of Indonesia publish the Putin: An investi- reporters find in European resort towns taking care of what’s already been built, is working with French, Chinese and Singaporean investigators incomes of their gation by the team and in walled compounds outside the seized, stolen or carved out. These pal- to go behind the cause of the disaster involving an A320-200 of Russia’s leading Russian capital. aces are, in a sense, all Putin’s — but he flown by experienced pilots. Generally, major air crashes see top managers. anti-corruption The reason they work as humble lets his people use them. activist Alexei bureaucrats or sit in regional legisla- That’s why there will be no palace the involvement of the National Transportation Safety Board Navalny revealed tures, wasting valuable time that could coup even if all the “Putin mansions” of the United States. The absence of the US organisation in that it’s owned by Zoya Ponomareva, be better spent making money, is that are confiscated by hostile Europeans. QZ8501 probe is intriguing. What also surprises is the relative the daughter of Valery Ponomarev, a the money-making part of their lives The goose named Putin will lay more insulation of Malaysian authorities from the investigation. Russian parliament member from the is dependent on the bureaucratic or golden eggs. Without him, who knows. It seems the probe is grappling with multiple challenges — remote region of Kamchatka. He never political one. In a country where private — Leonid Bershidsky, a Bloomberg View posed by nature and the vagaries of international politics. One declared any foreign property — that property is protected only if its owner is contributor, is a Berlin-based writer. would have raised questions in a country in good standing with the right people, WP-BLOOMBERG hopes the probe would be able to overcome these barriers. The other side Quote of Need to improve primary school education the day

LL IS not well on the education are perceived to be better than State- enrolled in Class 5 could read simple each child’s learning ability and provide front, especially in the quality funded ones by many parents, as English sentences. This number is virtu- additional instructions if required. of state-run schools. This compared to girls. ally unchanged since 2009. However, After years of dilly-dallying, the Ais clear from the Annual The reason for such a slow but the decline is visible in upper primary erstwhile Planning Commission had Status of Education Report (ASER), steady shift towards private schools is grades. Math also continues to be a emphasised on learning outcomes in which is facilitated by Pratham, a easy to decipher: The quality of State- serious and a major concern. One 2012. The NDA’s Padhe Bharat Badhe non-governmental innovative learning run schools is poor and this, as the of the main reasons why this dismal Bharat, a sub-scheme of the RTE, has I’m the coach, organisation. The key findings of its 10th report shows, reflects on the perform- trend continues is that while the state now set an outcome goal of 85% chil- year report, which was released in New ance of the students. In the last 10 governments have invested hugely in dren in Class 1 and 2 reaching speci- at least for the Delhi on Tuesday, was not different from years, the report says, the overall situ- infrastructure and teaching personnel, fied learning levels. This is a good move the earlier ones. The enrolment levels ation with basic reading continues to be the emphasis has always been on enrol- but what about older children who have moment. You are 96% or higher for the 6-14 age extremely “disheartening” in the country. ment and not on learning-related activi- huge deficits in basic skills? One way never know for the group for the sixth year in a row, the For example, in the latest report, only a ties. The thrust is always on finishing out of this mess could be to group stu- proportion of children enrolled in private fourth of children in Class 3 can read a the syllabus and not on improving the dents according to the level of learning future. schools has increased slightly from last Class 2 text fluently. The ability to read learning abilities of students. However, capabilities. On the input side, teach- year. Interestingly, a higher proportion English is unchanged for lower primary the Right to Education (RTE) Act says ers need better training and motivation. Djamel Belmadi of boys go to private schools, which grades. In 2014, about 25% of children it’s the duty of the teachers to assess Hindustan Times Qatar football coach TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 VIEWS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 09 Obama to lift legacy, with new plans US President is trying to shore up his legacy and help Democrats seeking to win the White House in 2016 with policies intended to aid Americans who have failed to benefit from the recovery. BY JEANNA SMIALEK quality-of-life value as earning money from work, said Mark Calabria, director arack Obama this week will of financial-regulation studies at the Cato lay the foundation for the last Institute in Washington and a former two years of his presidency. Republican Senate aide. Amid low wage Helping middle- and lower- growth, he said, “the bottom fifth has not income households will be the done well.” Bcornerstone. The White House said Obama Now the president is proposing meas- would propose new taxes on the wealthiest ures that could do more by promoting fam- Americans to fund expanded tax credits ily stability and education. for higher education and child care and “Our job now is to make sure that every create a new break for two-earner couples, American feels that they’re a part of our policies that will aid the middle class. country’s comeback,” he said in his Jan. 17 From expanded health coverage to weekly radio address. broadening a tax credit for workers, the Obama directed federal agencies to let president also wants to put more money employees take six weeks of paid leave to in the pockets of lower-income earners. care for a new child or ill family mem- In the run-up to his State of the Union ber. It’s the first step in what the White address tonight, he has been unveiling ini- House says will be a renewed campaign to tiatives including one for paid family leave expand benefits for workers, including a and another to make community college push for Congress to pass legislation allow- free. His plans face opposition from the ing them to get seven days of paid sick Guests look at silent auction items including this framed Giclee print of President Obama titled “Let Me Be Clear” during the 86th birthday Republican-run Congress, which wants to leave per year. About 43 million workers celebration for Martin Luther King Jr. at the annual Salute to Greatness Awards Dinner to honour the slain civil rights leader in Atlanta. cut taxes and spending. are without any sick leave, senior Obama “Now that the economy’s in a stronger adviser Valerie Jarrett said in a posting place than it’s been in a very long time, on LinkedIn. initiatives could pass the Republican-run taxes on asset transfers at death. That Jean Busby, 59, has watched in disap- we need to double down on our efforts to “People with the cushiest jobs and the Congress, said Isabel Sawhill, a senior fel- would fund a $500 tax credit for married pointment as economic growth has failed deal with wage stagnation and declining biggest salaries have the most flexibility at low at Brookings. couples when both spouses work, and tri- to trickle down. She has got both a bach- economic mobility,” Dan Pfeiffer, a sen- work,” said Jared Bernstein, former chief “I’m not sure any of these proposals will ple the maximum tax credit for child care elor’s and a master’s degree since being ior adviser to Obama, said on CBS’s “Face economist to Vice President Joe Biden and get off the runway, but I’m glad that the to up to $3,000 for children under 5. That laid off from her full-time position in 2009 the Nation” programme. “In divided gov- a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and plane is loaded with our baggage,” she said. credit could be claimed by families making yet only landed a part-time, $20,000 job ernment, each side should lay out their Policy Priorities in Washington. A single “It shows what his intentions are.” as much as $120,000. as a community organiser in Charlotte, agenda, what they think is in the best mom who switches her fast-food restau- The drive for new initiatives has been Obama would also consolidate several North Carolina. She’s living with family interest of the country. And then we can rant shift “can lose her job for it.” bolstered by the Center for American education tax breaks into a single tax members and struggling to pay $92,000 figure out if there are things in the middle The president has proposed free com- Progress, a research group with close ties credit worth up to $2,500, and is propos- in student loans. we agree on.” munity college education for millions of to Democrats, including Obama and 2016 ing to end taxation of some student loan “I figured I’d get this degree, I’d get a Many Americans have continued to lose students, at a cost of $60bn over 10 years. Democratic presidential front-runner debt forgiven under income-based repay- good job, so I could pay the loans back,” ground since the recession ended. Median The plan would provide about three-quar- Hillary Clinton. ment plans. Busby said. “But that’s not the real world household income fell 3.9 percent to $51,939 ters of average tuition, with states kick- CAP, founded by Obama counselor and Earlier this month, he announced that — because people are not hiring.” in 2013 compared with 2009 when Obama ing in the rest. Forty percent of college expected Clinton campaign chairman John the Federal Housing Administration Obama last year proposed expanding took office, US Census Bureau data show. students attend a two-year institution, Podesta, released proposals last week that would cut its mortgage-insurance premi- the earned income tax credit for child- The poorest fifth fared even worse, with according to a White House fact sheet, it says will promote prosperity for all. ums by about 37 percent, enough to save less, unmarried workers. Under the plan, incomes dropping 5.9 percent to $20,900. and as many as 9 million could benefit from The centre’s president is Neera Tanden, most borrowers $900 a year on their loan about 7.7 million workers would qualify While workers at the bottom have been the program. a longtime policy adviser to Clinton who payments. The Department of Housing for a larger credit and 5.8 million more aided by government transfer payments, Community college has kept Luis Veloz, worked in the Obama White House. This and Urban Development predicted the would become newly eligible, according to the picture is grim: Transfers boosted 21, attached to higher education. Veloz left administration isn’t new to ambitious move will bring 250,000 first-time buyers an administration analysis. after-tax 2011 income for the bottom fifth Southern Methodist University, forfeiting plans to benefit the poor: The president’s into the market. Obama also called on Congress to raise from $15,500 — based solely on earnings a full-ride scholarship, to support his fam- health law is intended to offer low- income The administration’s homeownership the minimum wage to $10.10 from $7.25, from work — to $24,100, according to a ily after his father fell sick in 2012. The Americans stability through insurance. focus provides little relief to poor rent- which would benefit 28 million Americans, November 2014 Congressional Budget Dallas student has been attending com- Obamacare was projected to increase ers, Calabria said. For low-income house- according to the Department of Labor. Office analysis that uses different data munity college and working double-shifts incomes for the bottom fifth of earners by holds, “first and last, the biggest expense While the proposal stalled in Congress, than the Census report. in a restaurant, and his family has saved almost 6 percent in 2016, using the most is housing, and that cost has not mod- almost half of US states increased the The safety net stabilised income in the enough that he plans to return to a four- generous estimates, based on a Brookings erated on the rental side,” Calabria said. floor on January 1. 2007-2009 recession and its aftermath, year school this fall. Even so, he’s skeptical Institution study from last January. That Median asking rent climbed to $756 in the Such measures wouldn’t be enough to said Richard Reeves, a senior fellow at about free community college. gain would come as people get access to third quarter 2014 from $716 for the same alleviate pain for many of America’s poor. the Brookings Institution in Washington. “I don’t think a lot of students get that subsidies to buy insurance and expanded period in 2009, based on Census data. About 45.3 million Americans were in pov- While most policies were in effect when guidance, and that mentorship, that they Medicaid. Obama has also sponsored pro- Homeownership policies would benefit erty in 2013. Of prime-age adults, just 10.7 Obama entered office, his economic-stim- need” at community college, he said. “That posals intended to help middle-income poor Americans only if they can earn million of the impoverished worked, while ulus plan — which included initiatives such worries me when I go into these classes Americans. enough to pull themselves up — and the 15.7 million didn’t. “The No. 1 thing that as an expansion of a refundable tax credit — although the teachers are amazing, a The latest plan, released on Saturday, outlook isn’t good. Wage growth remains can really help workers is a stronger econ- — helped keep households afloat, Reeves lot of the students, like myself, are work- would increase the top tax rate on capital tepid, and falling gas prices, a boon to the omy,” said Elise Gould, an economist at the said. Critics say that’s not enough. ing full time or have children.” In any gains and dividends to 28 percent from middle class, have done little to help low- Economic Policy Institute in Washington. Transfer payments don’t have the same case, chances are slim that such sweeping 23.8 percent and impose capital-gains income Americans, who often don’t drive. BLOOMBERG Freedom of expression versus hate speech BY DR MOHAMED KIRAT French policies and programmes to inte- about the state of Israel and the holocaust. respect, particularly of religion, is key to grate the second and third generations of He was tried, jailed and fined $50,000. To the success of multicultural societies. You any journalists said we have immigrants from the Maghreb and Africa. the French officials blaspheming Prophet might expect such diverging opinions in to accept freedom of expres- There are six million Muslims in France; Muhammad (peace be upon him) is free- liberal democracies, but overall, “the West sion, but we have also to be they have French passports, but they are dom of expression and it is a right for eve- seems to have gradually fallen out of faith Mresponsible for the impact considered second and third class citizens. rybody to do so; however nobody has the with free speech,” says Jonathan Turley, these drawings have on other people and After the Charlie Hebdo attack, there were right to criticise the holocaust and this a law professor at George Washington other countries. Because the problem is more than 500 incidents against mosques is how the French conceive of freedom of University and frequent commentator on not only French. There’s a French context and Muslims. Here we are witnessing a big expression. issues around freedom of expression. but all these questions also have an influ- problem of intolerance and integrating the Two issues, two parameters and two Shortly after the attacks, President ence all over the world. other — no matter what his or her colour, ways to deal with freedom of expression. François Hollande vowed to protect the Free speech is generally understood to religion and faith. Asked about the Paris terrorist attack, freedom of expression embodied by the be any communication that doesn’t libel France has failed over the decades to the Pope answered: “One cannot provoke; satirical journal. But since then more than or lead to the physical harm of another integrate the second- and third-generation one cannot insult other people’s faith; one 50 people have been detained or jailed for individual. But it’s the latter principle that of immigrants. Despite the evolution expe- cannot make fun of faith”. The pope went a range of remarks, shouted out or posted is causing problems for many Western rienced by mankind throughout history, on to say: “There is a limit. Every religion on social media. Young people in par- countries, because what is viewed as valid the international community still suffers has its dignity… in freedom of expression ticular are denouncing what they see as criticism — of a religion, for example — from a lack of tolerance, understanding, there are limits.” double standards: cartoons satirising the can be viewed as hate speech by others. dialogue and respect for others regardless In the last few days French authorities Prophet are given support in the name of Government should not be in the business of race, colour, religion and beliefs. arrested more than 55 persons because free speech while people are prosecuted of judging that fine line. Terrorism is a chronic disease that they justified terrorism, or they were criti- for comments that appear to condone The attack on the French magazine disappears and then suddenly reappears, cising the way France has been handling terrorism. Charlie Hebdo raised so many questions and as long as France did not dare to con- the issue of terrorism and the marginali- On Wednesday, French comedian and that were not asked systematically by the front the problem seriously, objectively sation of immigrants. In the week since polemicist Dieudonné was arrested for French, European and international news and responsibly, terrorism will reign as Islamic radicals killed 12 people at the condoning terrorism after posting “I feel media. The questions are related to the long as its causes are there. France did office of Charlie Hebdo, there have been like Charlie Coulibaly” on Facebook. This perpetrators of the crime: Who are they? not set clear parameters for dealing with solidarity marches, vocal commitments was just after some 3.7 million people had Where do they come from and where were the problem of integrating expatriates to democratic ideals — and, according to taken part in the “Je suis Charlie” (“I am the French authorities all these years? and communities living on its territory. free-speech advocates, a lot of hypocrisy. Charlie”) unity marches across France. Many questions are raised about the The two men who carried out the Charlie A number of influential people, including Dieudonné has been convicted on charges Afghan demonstrators chant slogans while 5,000 Europeans who left their countries Hebdo attack are two French young men, British novelist Salman Rushdie, himself of anti-Semitism in the past and the holding placards during a protest against to join the ranks of IS and Al Qaeda; 1,300 who were born, raised and studied in the target of Muslim extremists once, are comment was interpreted as supporting Charlie Hebdo in Jalalabad yesterday. of them were from France. The issue here France. They are the product of France; warning that a fear of Islamic radicalism is Amedy Coulibaly, the gunman who killed is the fact that the media are more into unfortunately the French society failed leading many Western countries to waver a policewoman and four Jewish men in a sensation and oddity than tackling the to integrate them and make out of them in their commitment to free expression. kosher supermarket just over a week ago. the difference between freedom of expres- real causes of the problem. When you have good citizens instead of delinquents and But other prominent opinion leaders, Pope Francis summed up the mixed mes- sion and hate speech, a harsh critique and hundreds of thousands of youth margin- terrorists. including Pope Francis and a number of sages during his visit to the Philippines, an insult, something Charlie Hebdo didn’t alised and living in a world of drugs, and Holocaust criticism is punishable under British newspaper editors, say that the saying that “to kill in the name of God is see and didn’t want to see. crimes, you will end up with delinquents the 1990 Gayssot law, and carries up to a Charlie Hebdo incident shows there are an absurdity,” but “you cannot provoke, The writer is a professor of Public Relations and terrorists. What the French media year in prison. Roger Garaudy, a French no absolutes when it comes to free speech, you cannot insult other people’s faith.” It’s and Mass Communication at the College of forgot to look at is the failure of the intellectual and thinker wrote a book and that enforcing some sort of mutual about time that journalists should explore Arts and Sciences, Qatar University. TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 MIDDLE EAST 10 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com Deadly battles as Yemen crisis deepens Fighting shakes capital Sana’a before ceasefire takes effect; nine killed

SANA’A: Shia militia fought and are refusing to publish any of a new government and the deadly battles with the army in government statements,” she appointment of Houthis as presi- Yemen’s capital yesterday before tweeted. Sakkaf said Houthis dential advisers. It stipulated that a ceasefire took hold, in the big- had also fired on Prime Minister in return the Houthis would with- gest challenge yet to President Khalid Bahah’s convoy as he left draw from key state institutions. Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi’s rule. the presidential residence but Mubarak’s kidnapping came At least nine people were killed that he was unharmed. just before a meeting of the as the militia, known as Houthis, Witnesses said the fighting national dialogue secretariat to seized an army base near the erupted early yesterday after the present a draft constitution divid- presidential palace in Sana’a and militia deployed reinforcements ing Yemen into a six-region feder- took control of state media as well near the presidential palace. ation, which the Houthis oppose. as fired on a convoy carrying the The military presidential guard The rebels, who hail from prime minister. sent troops onto the streets sur- Yemen’s remote north and fought The ceasefire came into effect rounding the palace and outside a decade-long war against the after several hours, with a secu- Hadi’s residence. government, rejected the decen- rity official saying it had been A security official said the army tralisation plan last year, claim- agreed in a meeting of the defence intervened when the Houthis ing it divides the country into rich and interior ministers with a began to set up a new checkpoint and poor regions. “The Houthis’ Houthi representative. near the presidential palace. decision to kidnap Mubarak was This was confirmed by the inte- But a prominent Huthi chief, a serious escalation that now rior ministry, and residents in Ali Al Imad, accused the presi- appears to be spiralling out of areas around the presidential pal- dential guard of provoking the control,” said April Longley Alley, ace said the fighting had subsided. clashes. “Hadi’s guard is trying an analyst with the International A joint committee of the gov- to blow up the situation on the Crisis Group. ernment and Houthis was later security front to create confusion Since their takeover of the formed to ensure the ceasefire is on the political front,” he said on capital, the Houthis, also known adhered to. Facebook. as Ansarullah, have pressed At least nine people were killed Tensions have been running their advance into areas south in yesterday’s violence, including high in Sanaa since the Houthis of Sana’a, where they have met fighters from both sides, and 67 abducted Hadi’s chief of staff, deadly resistance from Sunnis people were wounded, among Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, in an including Al Qaeda loyalists. them civilians, said Deputy apparent bid to extract changes Yemen’s branch of the jihad- Health Minister Nasser Baoum. to a draft constitution that he is ist network, Al Qaeda in the The clashes raised interna- overseeing. Arabian Peninsula, is considered tional concerns, with the Arab Mubarak is in charge of a its most dangerous and claimed League, Britain and the United “national dialogue” set up after responsibility for this month’s States calling for their immedi- A vehicle from the Presidential Protection Forces is positioned on a street during clashes near the palace in veteran strongman Ali Abdullah attack in Paris on French satiri- ate end. Sana’a yesterday. Saleh was forced from power in cal weekly Charlie Hebdo that The Houthis seized control of February 2012 following a year left 12 dead. Sanaa in September and strategi- that Hadi’s government, which is tightening their hold on the cap- total control of state television of bloody Arab Spring-inspired Hadi’s government has been cally important Yemen — which a key ally in Washington’s fight ital yesterday, saying they had and the official news agency. protests. a key ally of the United States, borders Saudi Arabia and is on against Al Qaeda, will collapse seized an army base on a hill over- “Yemeni satellite channel is not The Houthis said they had allowing Washington to carry key Gulf shipping routes — has and that Yemen will become a looking the presidential palace. under state control, nor is state seized him to prevent the viola- out regular drone attacks on Al since been wracked by unrest. failed state similar to Somalia. Information Minister Nadia news agency Saba. The Houthis tion of a UN-brokered agreement Qaeda militants in its territory. The violence has raised fears The Houthis appeared to be Sakkaf said they had also taken have completely controlled them that provided for the formation AFP

Woman dies Libya recalls former of bird flu in general for duty Egypt, fourth

BENGHAZI: Libya’s interna- active army duty. Haftar’s air death this year tionally-recognised government force chief Saqer Al Joroushi has recalled retired general and lawmaker Idris Abdullah CAIRO: An Egyptian woman Khalifa Haftar to army duty, confirmed the contents of the died of H5N1 bird flu, the health officials said, cementing its alli- decree. It was issued weeks ago ministry said yesterday, the ance with him in a struggle but had not previously been fourth person to die of the ill- against a rival administration made public. ness in the country this year. claiming national authority. Libya Dawn has denounced The 47-year-old was in criti- The decision shows the increas- Haftar as a Gaddafi loyalist try- cal condition when she arrived at ing influence of military figures in ing to stage a counter-revolution a hospital in Assiut province, a the official government and par- with former regime officials. rural area where an H5N1 death liament, which has been forced to Haftar helped Gaddafi seize was reported last week, ministry operate from the east of the coun- power in 1969 but fell out with spokesman Hossam Abdel Ghaffar try since an armed group called him in the 1980s after a dis- said. The ministry announced two Libya Dawn seized the capital astrous defeat during a war in other cases in treatment, bring- Tripoli in summer. Chad. ing the total number of cases in Frustrated with the loss of Haftar has said he only wants Egypt to 20 this year so far. This Tripoli and lack of an efficient to rid Libya of Islamist groups includes four deaths as well as six army or police, the elected par- such as Ansar Al Sharia, blamed recoveries and 10 cases still under liament and its allied Prime by Washington for a 2012 assault Members of the Iranian security services watch a demonstration in front of the French Embassy in Tehran yesterday. treatment, Abdel Ghaffar said. Minister Abdullah Al Thinni have on the US consulate which killed The World Health Organization gradually built up a military alli- its ambassador. says there has been a jump in the ance with Haftar. In a video message in February Protest at French mission in Tehran number of H5N1 infections in Haftar, a former general under he announced what some feared people in Egypt, but that there Gaddafi, is one of dozens of com- was a coup, though that did not does not appear to have been manders of irregular forces which materialise. TEHRAN: More than 2,000 of which turned deadly. demonstration was to “condemn any major genetic change in the have refused to disarm after the Later he demanded a special Iranians protested yesterday Iran denounced the Paris mas- the insult of Charlie Hebdo,” flu strain to explain the rise in ousting of Muammar Gaddafi in council to run Libya. Haftar outside the French embassy sacre but it also condemned the but also to denounce that “the human cases. 2011. has also drawn support from an in Tehran, chanting “Death to magazine’s new cartoon, where embassy forces women to remove At least 10 people died from In May he launched his own armed group in the western town France” and urging the ambassa- the prophet holds a “Je suis their veils to get a visa”. the disease in Egypt in 2014. The war against Islamist fighters in of Zintan which was blamed for dor be expelled because of a car- Charlie” sign under the heading In Iran, women, regardless WHO said last week that between the eastern city Benghazi. an attack on parliament in Tripoli toon of the Prophet Mohammed “All is forgiven”. of their religious denomination, December 4 and January 6 there But his warplanes have also in May. (peace be upon him). Plans for yesterday’s pro- must have their hair and neck had been 18 new laboratory-con- attacked commercial airports Senior officers linkled to Haftar The demonstration was in test led the French ambassador covered by a veil under a female firmed human cases of H5N1 infec- and a steel plant in western Libya. have also been given top posts in response to French satirical mag- to announce that the embassy, dress code in force since the tion in Egypt, including four deaths, They hit a Greek-operated fuel the recall. azine Charlie Hebdo’s use of the located in busy downtown Tehran, Islamic revolution in 1979. the highest ever monthly number of tanker in Derna this month, kill- Libya Dawn says Haftar is sup- cartoon in an edition published a would be closed all day. “The least I can do is protest human cases in the country. ing two seamen, after Haftar’s ported by Egypt and the United week after 12 people were killed by The gathering, organised by against this insult, we condemn forces claimed it was carrying Arab Emirates, which are wor- Islamist gunmen at its Paris offices. students but attended by all age insults of the prophet,” a woman Islamist fighters. ried about the spread of Islamists. The image has angered many groups, was given a heavy security in her 50s wearing a traditional Ansar claims attack A copy of an official decree He denies this but some analysts Muslims as depictions of the detail of around 150 Iranian police, head-to-toe black chador said. obtained by Reuters recalled wonder how the tiny air force is Prophet are forbidden in Islam, and although noisy it passed off As in customary in Iran, men on Sinai pipeline Haftar and 108 other former able to stage almost daily attacks. and has triggered protests in Asia, peacefully after two hours. and women were segregated at Gaddafi-era army officers for REUTERS Africa and the Middle East, some One speaker said the the protest. AFP CAIRO: An Egyptian militant group claimed yesterday to have bombed a pipeline in the Sinai that carries gas to Jordan, saying it was targeted over Amman’s role in the US-led war on the Islamic State (IS). Saudi border guards get shoot on sight orders Ansar Beit Al Maqdis, Egypt’s deadliest militant group which RIYADH: Saudi border guards three border guards killed in the Saudi Arabia is among Arab infra-red cameras, shooting two inaugurated the first stage of a has pledged allegiance to IS, have been given orders to shoot January 5 clash with four Saudi countries taking part in US-led of them dead. protective fence and surveillance tweeted unverified pictures of infiltrators on sight after three infiltrators, two of whom blew air strikes against the Islamic Thousands of riyals (dollars) system stretching for about 900 the claimed attack, without say- troopers were killed on the Iraqi themselves up. State jihadist group in Syria, rais- were found on their bodies, sug- km along the northern desert ing when it was carried out. frontier earlier this month, a “After that, we will not negoti- ing concerns about possible retali- gesting they had hoped to reach a frontier. Since the 2011 uprising that spokesman said yesterday. ate with anyone,” Ghamdi said. ation inside the kingdom. target elsewhere in the kingdom, “It’s very high-tech,” Ghamdi toppled president Hosni Mubarak, The orders apply to guards “We will shoot them directly Ghamdi said he did not know Ghamdi added. said. there have been 27 confirmed patrolling the southern border without any warning, without any if the “terrorists” belonged to IS, Security officers later arrested The shoot on sight order also attacks on energy pipelines in the with Yemen as well as the north- negotiation.” but they came from the direction seven suspected associates of the applies to the southern border Sinai Peninsula, the most recent ern frontier with Iraq, Major He said security officers on the of Iraq and tried to enter through four infiltrators. with Yemen, where Al Qaeda in of which was on December 23. General Mohammed Al Ghamdi Iraqi side had been told of the new an official crossing in the Arar For security reasons, Ghamdi the Arabian Peninsula has estab- Jordan is among a number of said. orders. region. declined to say how many officers lished a major presence amid Arab states that have joined the Senior commander General No group has claimed respon- Officers tried to stop the infil- are stationed on the frontier. deepening instability. US-led campaign of air strikes Odah Al Balawi was among the sibility for the border clash but trators after spotting them on Last September, the kingdom AFP against IS. AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 INTERNATIONAL www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 11

British boy hit Shelling hits Ukraine hospital with invoice over party Kiev alleges Russian troops cross border; Security Council to discuss crisis on Wednesday no-show DONETSK, Ukraine: including one doctor and five the last 24 hours and another Ukraine launched a massive coun- Kiev issued further accusa- Sporadic shelling hit a hospi- patients. The building’s front 66 wounded, but claimed to be ter-offensive with tanks and other tions on Monday, saying some 700 LONDON: A five-year-old tal in Donetsk and shook other was damaged and windows were in control of the airport. “We heavy artillery on Saturday that Russian troops had crossed the British boy was handed an parts of the region yesterday blown out. are not giving them the airport,” continued into Sunday. border into rebel-held territory invoice for a “Childs Party No while Ukraine alleged that hun- A university across from the said military spokesman Andriy Intense clashes followed, with earlier in the day. “This morning, Show Fee” and threatened dreds of Russian troops crossed hospital was also hit. Lysenko. “It is under our control.” repeated heavy explosions ring- two groups of armed forces from with court action after miss- the border to help rebels fight- “I walked out of a store and took Rebels have disputed Kiev’s ing out from the area surrounding the Russian Federation crossed ing his schoolmate’s birthday ing for control of the country’s two steps, then I heard ‘boom! account and there was no inde- the airport, while some were also the border,” Lysenko said. party to spend the day with his east. boom! boom!’” said 35-year-old pendent confirmation, with jour- heard closer to the city centre. Russia is under heavy sanctions grandparents. Ukraine’s fresh charges of Denis Rybkine. “By reflex, I lay nalists unable to approach the site. A recent upsurge in violence from the West over its alleged Torpoint Nursery and Infant Russia backing the rebels comes down on the ground, and I saw The blackened and wrecked in eastern Ukraine has been actions in Ukraine, and the UN School in southern England said after each side blamed the other red bricks (from the hospital) fly airport has been hit by repeated centred around Donetsk airport Security Council is due to discuss that one of their teachers had for a complete breakdown of a and windows explode.” on-off clashes, and control has and has left in tatters an often the worsening crisis at a meeting been asked to pass on an envelope September truce in recent days, Larissa Polyakova said students often been divided between a violated September truce, which on Wednesday. from the birthday boy’s mother with heavy combat having rocked at the university barely missed new and old terminal and other was followed by another accord The conflict has killed more to youngster Alex Nash as he the area around Donetsk airport. being hit. installations. in December. than 4,800 people since April last returned from the Christmas Despite the sporadic explosions “Shells fell on the window,” she An army spokesman said Kiev and Moscow traded blame year and has become Europe’s break. yesterday, the overall violence was said. “Miraculously, the students that the counter-offensive had for the breakdown of the cease- worst humanitarian crisis since Inside, father Derek Nash found far less than in previous days, had left the room 15 minutes accomplished its goal. “It’s much fire as the airport battle raged, the Balkan wars of the 1990s. a demand for £15.95 ($24.18), when heavy clashes rocked the before. Can you imagine what more calm today,” said Vladislav while UN Secretary General Ban Thousands of people held according to British press reports. area around the airport north- would have happened if they were Selezyov. “Our soldiers had a con- Ki-moon voiced alarm and called for a common prayer and peace The invoice seemed to appear west of the city after Ukraine still inside?” cise task: Push back the rebels an immediate end to the violence. march on Sunday in the capital as if it came from Plymouth Ski launched a major counter-offen- Elsewhere, in Debaltseve some who were attacking us. The 93rd Ukraine and Western nations Kiev attended by President Petro Slope, the venue of the “slide and sive to push back the rebels. 60km north of Donetsk, artillery airport brigade accomplished it. say Russia has supported the Poroshenko, who vowed the coun- ride” party that included three The hospital hit yesterday is fire killed three people yesterday The separatists can no longer fire rebels with troops and weapons, try would not yield to rebels he toboggan rides, a hot meal, ice located in the centre of the city, and wounded 12. on our positions at close range.” charges Moscow strongly denies says have been backed by Russian cream, jelly and balloons. and rebel officials who control Ukraine’s military reported at With rebels at one point despite witness claims to the troops and weapons. “It was a proper invoice with the area reported six wounded least three soldiers killed over claiming to control the airport, contrary. AFP full official details and even her bank details on it,” Nash, 45, told the British press. Having not yet paid the bill, Royal chat the family is now threatened with action in the small claims Govt letter to UK imams court, which deals with minor civil disputes. “The money isn’t the issue, it’s the way she went about trying to stirs controversy get the money from me.” Julie Lawrence, who issued the LONDON: Britain’s biggest Muslim Council of Britain. “This invoice, stood by her demand in Muslim association yesterday week Muslims have experienced a statement issued to the press. accused the government of stok- heightened tension when mosques “All details were on the party ing Islamophobia and making a and Muslim institutions have been invite. They had every detail far-right argument over a letter attacked and sent hate mail.” needed to contact me,” she said. urging community leaders to do Shafi said the group took more to root out extremism. issue “with the insinuation French leader’s But Prime Minister David that extremism takes place at Cameron defended the letter say- mosques, and that Muslims have ratings soar ing it was “reasonable, sensible not done enough to challenge the and moderate”. terrorism that took place in our PARIS: French President “Anyone... reading this letter, name”. Francois Hollande’s ratings, who has a problem with it, I think The MCB’s Talha Ahmad ear- scraping historic lows just really has a problem,” he said. lier told Sky News: “The letter weeks ago, have soared in the The controversy surfaced has all the hallmarks of very poor aftermath of deadly Islamist as security was stepped up for judgement which feeds into an attacks in Paris, data showed British police, who were told to Islamophobic narrative.” yesterday. Hollande’s ratings withhold their home addresses Deputy Secretary General leapt by a record 21 percentage from electoral lists, two weeks Harun Khan added that “the points to 40 percent, according after attacks in Paris in which 17 idea that Muslims and Islam are to an opinion poll carried out by people including three police offic- inherently apart from British the Ifop polling company. ers were killed. society” was a well-worn argu- Britain’s Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (right) speaks with Rosie Benson and her son Zach as she formally AGENCIES The letter sent to mosques ment made by the far right. opens Kensington Aldridge Academy in London yesterday. praised British Muslims for Conservative MEP Sajjad rejecting the attacks but said Karim later told BBC Radio 4’s imams must do more to pre- “World at One” programme that vent radicalisation in their own Pickles was placing “a responsi- communities. bility on a section of our com- Prosecutor who accused Fernandez found dead “You have a precious oppor- munity that it is impossible for tunity, and an important them to fulfil”, but added that responsibility: in explaining and “most of the letter is actually very BUENOS AIRES: The He had said the scheme papers were still on his doorstep. just a few days earlier, he had told demonstrating how faith in Islam constructive.” Argentine prosecutor who intended to clear the suspects so Nisman’s mother found the the newspaper, “I could end up can be part of British identity,” Police in Britain meanwhile accused President Cristina Argentina could start swapping door to his flat locked from the dead because of this.” Nisman, in said the letter from Communities said they had given security Fernandez of orchestrating a grains for much-needed oil from inside and had to get a locksmith a separate TV interview, had also Secretary Eric Pickles. advice to officers, bolstered secu- cover-up in the investigation of Iran, which denies any connection to open it. She found her son’s been considering agreeing to have “There is a need to lay out more rity around police buildings and Iran over the 1994 bombing of a with the bombing. body on the floor of the bathroom, his security detail increased. clearly than ever before what increased “levels of specialist sup- Jewish community centre has “Alberto Nisman was found blocking the entrance, and called “In the coming days we will being a British Muslim means port, including firearms officers”. been found dead in his apart- dead on Sunday night in his flat the police. determine the cause of death with today: proud of your faith and “Our experience of policing ment, authorities said yesterday. on the 13th floor of the tower Le “Next to Nisman’s body ... a an autopsy,” prosecutor Viviana proud of your country,” it added. London and the UK tells us that Alberto Nisman, who had Parc, in the Buenos Aires district 22-calibre handgun was found, Fein told journalists gathered at The Muslim Council of Britain our key focus should be on how to been delving into the blast at the of Puerto Madero,” the Argentine together with a bullet casing,” the the scene in the early hours. “I ask responded with its own let- prevent attacks,” a police state- AMIA Jewish community cen- Security Ministry said in a ministry statement said. for seriousness, I ask for prudence.” ter to Pickles, accusing him of ment said. tre in Buenos Aires that killed statement. Nisman, who local media said Lawmaker Patricia Bullrich insensitivity. “The best way to do this is to 85 people, said last Wednesday The ministry said Nisman’s was 51, had been due to take part told television channel TN that “We feel your letter to Muslims, engage even more widely with our Fernandez had opened a secret security guards had alerted his in a closed-door hearing in par- members of parliament would at this critical time, could have communities to encourage them back channel to a group of mother on Sunday afternoon that liament yesterday to explain his meet yesterday morning to dis- been worded differently,” said to pass on information,” it said. Iranians suspected of planting he was not answering his front accusations against Fernandez. cuss the situation. Shuja Shafi, secretary general of the AFP the bomb. door or phone, and the Sunday The Clarin daily reported that REUTERS

Chechens protest against Charlie Hebdo US hacked N Korea systems in 2010

WASHINGTON: The United provided the evidence that per- outdated and unsophisticated, its States secretly penetrated suaded President Barack Obama cyberwarfare capabilities have North Korea’s computer sys- that Pyongyang was behind the long been considered a significant tems four years ago — a breach Sony hack, the Times said, cit- threat. that allowed Washington to ing an anonymous official familiar South Korean intelligence insist Pyongyang was to blame with the NSA mission. believes North Korea runs an for the recent cyberattack on US investigators concluded that elite cyberwarfare unit with at Sony Pictures, the New York North Korean hackers spent two least 6,000 personnel, trained in Times reported yesterday. months mapping Sony’s computer secret government and military Citing former US officials systems in preparation for what programmes. and a newly released National became the biggest cyberattack in A number of experts suggest Security Agency (NSA) docu- US corporate history. the North’s cyber capacity is ment, the Times detailed how North Korea denies any heavily reliant on China, in terms the US spy agency in 2010 “pen- involvement, although it had pub- of both training and the necessary etrated directly” into the North’s licly threatened Sony if it released software and hardware. systems via Chinese networks and the comedy film “The Interview” They say telecommunications connections in Malaysia favoured about a CIA plot to assassinate giant China Unicom provides and by North Korean hackers. leader Kim Jong-Un. maintains all Internet links with Primarily aimed at gather- Given that threat and the the North, and some estimate ing information on the reclu- reported level of US penetration, that thousands of North Korean sive nation’s nuclear program, the Times report raised the ques- hackers operate on Chinese soil. the NSA’s clandestine operation tion of why the NSA was unable According to South Korea’s switched focus to the growing to warn Sony in advance. National Intelligence Service, threat posed by North Korea’s According to one US official more than 75,000 hacking hacking capabilities following a cited by the newspaper, the intel- attempts were made against destructive cyberattack on South ligence agencies “couldn’t really South Korean government agen- Korean banks in 2013. understand the severity” of the cies between 2010 and September A member of law enforcement forces stands guard during a rally to protest against satirical cartoons published Hidden US software provided attack that was coming. 2014 — many of them believed to in Charlie Hebdo, in Grozny, Chechnya, yesterday. Tens of thousands of people participated in the rally. an “early warning radar” for While North Korea’s conven- be from Pyongyang. North Korean activities, and tional military hardware is largely AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 12 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com ASIA / PHILIPPINES General puts peace onus on rebels Fresh unrest in Myanmar’s Kachin YANGON: Myanmar’s army since last week around Kachin’s chief said peace in the war- Hpakant township, a jade-rich ravaged nation is in the hands area near the border with China, of ethnic rebels, in an interview which officials have blamed on broadcast yesterday, as a fresh the KIA. surge in unrest in northern “There are so many reasons Kachin state casts doubt over to believe that elements within ceasefire efforts. the KIA who do not want peace Senior General Min Aung have intentionally tried to disturb Hlaing said peace was the “only the nationwide ceasefire accord path” if the country is to continue process,” Information Minister its democratisation and develop- Ye Htut said in a post on his ment, in a rare interview with Facebook page. Singapore’s Channel NewsAsia. The latest unrest was sparked “Do they really want peace? on January 15 with the brief If they really want peace, there abduction of the Kachin state is no reason that they cannot transport minister, who was later have it,” he said, referring to the released, and three policemen country’s many ethnic minority believed still to be held. armed groups who have fought Several attempted bomb Students rehearse a dance, hours prior to the departure of Pope Francis, at Villamor Airbase in Manila yesterday. for greater autonomy for decades. attacks on security forces and “We cannot keep disagreeing. mining firms have been reported Disagreeing hinders the coun- in recent days in the area, accord- try’s development,” added the ing to the state-backed Global army chief, whose troops have New Light of Myanmar news- Pope ends record-setting tour of Asia engaged in sporadic heavy fight- paper yesterday, although most ing with rebels from the Kachin were unsuccessful. MANILA: Masses of cheer- President Benigno Aquino then chaperone during his five days in walked by, greeted three people, Independence Army (KIA), Local activists said a consor- ing believers in the Philippines led a red-carpet farewell on the the Philippines. given them something and moved despite ongoing efforts to reach tium of religious and civil society turned out to bid farewell to tarmac, as children sang and Throughout his stay in the on,” he said. a nationwide ceasefire. groups had sent some 200 cars to Pope Francis yesterday, a fit- danced, before the pope gave a Philippines — where a quarter The pope said the main reason Tensions in Kachin, where a try and remove civilians from the ting end to a week in Asia that final wave to the Philippines and of the population lives on 60 US for visiting the Philippines was to 17-year ceasefire between rebels area but had been prevented from saw him draw record crowds boarded his plane to return home. cents a day or less — the pope meet survivors of Super Typhoon and the government splintered in getting through to the village by and campaign relentlessly for Sunday saw one of the high- spoke out against the forces that Haiyan, the strongest storm ever 2011, have overshadowed efforts the national army. the poor. lights of his Asian journey, with entrench poverty. recorded on land which hit the to call an end to the multiple civil Tsa Ji, director of Kachin The pontiff visited Sri Lanka six million people turning out in In a speech at the presidential country in November 2013, leav- wars in Myanmar’s ethnic minor- Development Networking Group, as well as the Philippines on his Manila as he celebrated mass — palace, the leader of the Catholic ing more than 7,350 people dead ity borderlands that have blighted told AFP that schools were closed second trip to Asia in five months, a world record for a papal gath- Church lectured the nation’s elite, or missing. the country for more than half a and fear had spread through the seeking to promote the Catholic ering. The Philippines is famed calling on political leaders to show He flew on Saturday morn- century. area. “The villagers want to get Church in one of its most impor- as the Catholic Church’s bastion integrity and do something to end ing from Manila to Leyte island, Reaching a nationwide ceasefire out. They are afraid just seeing tant growth regions. in Asia, with 80 percent of the the nation’s “scandalous social ground zero for the typhoon, and deal with some 16 rebel groups is (Myanmar) soldiers in uniform. More than one million people former Spanish colony’s 100 mil- inequalities”. celebrated a deeply emotional seen as a cornerstone of reforms There is no safety for women,” he gathered along his motorcade lion people following the faith. He again implored people to do mass with 200,000 survivors. by Myanmar’s quasi-civilian gov- said, referring to long-standing route in the Philippine capital of But even the pope was stunned more to eradicate poverty, after “Some of you have lost part of ernment, which replaced outright claims of serious human rights Manila yesterday morning for a at the size of the crowd, which an emotional encounter in Manila your families. All I can do is keep junta rule in 2011. abuses by Myanmar’s armed final glimpse of Francis, the city’s surpassed the previous world with a 12-year-old girl who asked silent. And I walk with you all But while the government has forces. planning agency chief, Francis record of five million set during a why God would allow children to with my silent heart,” he said. pinned its hopes on reaching an He said he believed the fighting Tolentino, told AFP. mass by John Paul II at the same get into vice trade. Francis had planned to spend agreement within weeks, the in the area was directly linked to The 78-year-old pontiff showed venue in 1995. He said superficial compassion a full day in communities where peace process continues to stum- the lucrative mining industry. no signs of fatigue from a gruel- “I cannot fathom the faith of for the poor shown by many in homes were flattened by monster ble on decades-old mistrust and The control of plentiful ling week on the road, smiling the simple people,” Francis said, the world, which amounts to just winds and tsunami-like ocean the Kachin conflict. resources is a major source of and waving to the crowds from according to the archbishop of giving alms, was not enough. surges, but was forced to return Activists say hundreds of peo- resentment in Myanmar’s ethnic an open-air “popemobile” on the Manila, Cardinal Luis Antonio “If Christ had that kind of at lunchtime to Manila to avoid ple have been caught up in clashes minority border areas. AFP way to the airport. Tagle, who acted as the pontiff’s compassion, he would have just another tropical storm. AFP

General strike in Indonesia says no proof of terror role in AirAsia crash Nepal today over JAKARTA: Indonesian inves- second-biggest city of Surabaya pilots,” said Nurcahyo Utomo, constitution row tigators said yesterday they had to Singapore. There were no another investigator. “We didn’t found no evidence so far that survivors. hear any sounds of gunfire or KATHMANDU: Nepal’s terrorism played a part in the When asked if there was any explosions. For the time being, Maoist leader warned yesterday crash of an AirAsia passenger evidence from the recording that based on that, we can eliminate of “conflict” if ruling parties try jet last month that killed all 162 terrorism was involved, Hananto the possibility of terrorism.” to push through a constitution people on board. said: “No. Because if there were Utomo said that investigators by a Thursday deadline with- Andreas Hananto told Reuters terrorism, there would have been could hear “almost everything” on out opposition agreement, and that his team of 10 investigators a threat of some kind.” the recording contained in one of promised to press ahead with a at the National Transportation “In that critical situation, the the flight’s two “black boxes”. The general strike. Safety Committee (NTSC) had recording indicates that the pilot other is the flight data recorder, The Maoists have ordered fac- found “no threats” in the cock- was busy with the handling of the and both have been recovered tories, schools, colleges and pub- pit voice recordings to indicate plane.” from the wreckage at the bottom lic transport to shut down today foul play during AirAsia Flight Investigators said they had lis- of the Java Sea. to protest at what they say are QZ8501. tened to the whole of the record- He declined to give details the ruling parties’ plans to hold a The Airbus A320-200 vanished ing but transcribed only about about what was said during the parliamentary vote on disputed from radar screens on December half. doomed flight’s final moments, issues in the draft constitution. 28, less than half way into a “We didn’t hear any voice of citing Indonesian law. Seats of crashed AirAsia flight QZ8501 recovered from the sea at the port The Maoists, now in opposi- two-hour flight from Indonesia’s other persons other than the REUTERS of Kumai in Indonesia’s Central Kalimantan yesterday. tion, say discussions must con- tinue until a deal is hammered out — even if that means missing Thursday’s deadline. “We are trying to forge consen- sus... there has to be consensus,” Daughter of Korean Air chief pleads said Pushpa Kamal Dahal, known better as Prachanda, at a press conference. AFP not guilty in infamous nut rage case Sri Lanka chief SEOUL: Korean Air heiress five years on additional charges were based on “exaggerated state- justice barred Cho Hyun-Ah, charged with of coercing KAL staff to give false ments” and that there had been aviation safety violations fol- testimony and interference in the no breach of safety laws, given from conference lowing a now notorious “nut execution of duty. that the plane was on the ground rage” incident that triggered The charges all stem from and had not even reached the COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s attor- a national uproar, pleaded not an incident in which Cho alleg- runway when it turned back. ney general barred the country’s guilty at the opening of her trial edly forced the chief purser off “The charge that she violated chief justice from attending a yesterday. a December 5 New York-Seoul aviation safety rules should be regional conference yesterday Cho, who has been in custody KAL flight, compelling the taxi- reconsidered,” her lawyer said, after allegations he tried to help since her formal arrest three ing plane to return to the gate so adding that Cho was “extremely the former president retain weeks ago, was whisked into the he could disembark. remorseful” about her behaviour. power illegally. western district court complex Cho, who was a KAL vice presi- The incident triggered a huge Chief Justice Mohan Peiris is in Seoul by bus through a crowd dent at the time, had taken excep- public backlash. Cho was seen under growing pressure to stand of mediapersons. tion to being served macadamia as emblematic of a generation of down after he was implicated in Wearing a green prison uni- nuts she had not asked for — and spoilt and arrogant offspring of an alleged coup attempt by former form, she stood with her head in a bag, not a bowl. owners of the giant family-run president Mahinda Rajapaksa, bowed in the packed courtroom, She has denied physically conglomerates, or “chaebols,” who lost power in an election answering preliminary questions assaulting the chief steward, Park that dominate the South Korean earlier this month. in a near-whisper. Chang-Jin, who says she made economy. Sri Lanka’s bar association The 40-year-old daughter of him kneel and beg for forgiveness Cho resigned from all her KAL had threatened to boycott the Korean Air chief Cho Yang-Ho while jabbing him with a service posts and publicly apologised for Conference of Attorneys General, could face a maximum 10-year manual. her behaviour, which her father held in Colombo yesterday, if he Cameramen take pictures of a prison bus carrying Korean Air heiress Cho sentence if convicted of aviation In their opening statements, also criticised as a “foolish act”. attended. AFP Hyun-Ah as she arrives at a court in Seoul yesterday. safety violations, and a possible Cho’s lawyers argued the charges AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 PAKISTAN / AFGHANISTAN www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 13

Afghan labourers Pakistan to Fresh trouble implement national food for formation of security policy

ISLAMABAD: The draft Afghan cabinet national food security policy, seeking a major shift from tra- ditional crops to value-addition in farm produce, is now ready, Nominee quits, others in doubt and a strategy is currently being evolved for the implementation KABUL: The Afghan presi- to lawmaker Abdul Qader Zazai, of the policy recommendations. dent’s bid to form a cabinet a member of the committee vet- The policy drafted in January nearly four months after taking ting nominees. The constitution 2013 by the ministry of national office ran into fresh trouble yes- stipulates that ministers must be food security and research, shut- terday after his candidate for solely Afghan citizens. tled between the standing com- finance minister withdrew and Second nationalities included mittees of the parliament, the doubt was cast over as many American, Australian, Canadian, ministry and stakeholders for as 11 nominees believed to hold British and Turkish. Diplomats months. Finally, the document dual citizenship. at two embassies confirmed that is back to the ministry whose President Ashraf Ghani is nominees held their citizenship responsibility is to send it to the hoping to finalise a 25-member as well, while others declined to cabinet for approval. ministerial team after overcom- comment for privacy reasons. The much-debated new pol- ing disagreements with his chief Ghani’s office was not immedi- icy seeks a major change in the executive, Abdullah Abdullah, who ately available to comment on any agricultural development vision shares control over appointments aspect of the cabinet nomination in order to move beyond sim- under the deal to share power fol- process. Nominees face a confi- ply increasing production to a lowing a disputed election. dence vote in parliament at the Labourers shovel coal onto a truck at a coal dump site outside Kabul yesterday. Each labourer earns an aver- more people-centric, livelihood The lack of leadership at min- end of the week. age of $10 per working day, with most of them coming from the northern provinces. approach. istries has left many projects in “We will never vote in favour The political disclosure on agri- limbo and frustrated efforts to of any nominee with dual citizen- culture has so far been dominated restore confidence in the economy ship, as it is clearly prohibited by by how to increase production of a after a destabilising election last the constitution and we can’t few strategically important crops year that threatened to deepen break the law,” said Kabul law- Cop guarding polio workers shot — mainly wheat, rice, sugarcane ethnic and regional rivalries. maker Qais Hassan. and cotton. Relatively, little atten- It has also detracted from The impasse has added to tion has been given to other crops, efforts to fight an escalating embarrassment after the nominee KARACHI: Gunmen yester- livestock and poultry. Taliban insurgency that has taken for agriculture minister admit- day wounded a policeman who According to Iftikhar advantage of the withdrawal of ted his name was on an Interpol was guarding a polio vaccina- Ahmed, Chairman of Pakistan most foreign troops last year. wanted list for tax evasion. He has tion team in Pakistan’s port city Agricultural Research Council, Ghani’s nominee for the key denied any wrongdoing, however. of Karachi, the latest in a series provincial agricultural depart- position of finance minister, Ghani’s ongoing struggle to of attacks on the teams in the ments, provincial research bodies, Ghulam Jilani Popal, withdrew for appoint a cabinet with his rival- country. agricultural universities, farmers’ “personal reasons”, according to a turned-partner Abdullah has The attack took place on the community, agro-based industry senior presidential palace official. dented public confidence in the first day of a four-day local anti- and NGO’s have been taken on Another government official president, who based his cam- polio campaign in the western board to finalise the policy. said Popal disagreed with the paign on promises of greater neighbourhood of Orangi. Advices were also sought president on a number of unspeci- transparency and new faces in “Two gunmen opened fire at from the Food and Agricultural fied issues and was instead being government. the policeman who was on duty to Organisation and the International considered for the Independent “This is a business enterprise, guard the vaccinators,” Ali Asif, a Centre for Integrated Mountain Directorate of Local Governance not a cabinet,” said senator for senior police official, said. Development. (IDLG). Both sources said the southern Farah province, Gul The policeman is critically ill Since agriculture is the back- new nominee for finance minis- Ahmad Azami. after a bullet passed through his bone of the economy, it was felt ter would be Eklil Ahmad Hakimi, “Language, allegiance and reli- skull, Doctor Mohammad Abid in that merely focusing on tradi- the current Afghan ambassador gious belief count for more than the city hospital said. Pakistan is Residents look on at the scene after gunmen fired on a polio team in Karachi. tional crops would not serve; a to the United States. talent, experience and commit- one of only three countries where shift is needed to achieve value- Popal was one of up to 11 cabi- ment. I’m 100 percent sure that polio remains endemic. Attempts attacks on immunisation teams claim that polio vaccination is a added growth for both domestic net nominees who reportedly people of Afghanistan will not be to stamp it out have been badly hit that have claimed 68 lives since front for espionage or a conspir- and export markets, he said. hold dual citizenship, according satisfied.” REUTERS by opposition from militants and December 2012. The militants acy to sterilise Muslims. AFP INTERNEWS

Punjab, Sindh Clash kills three soldiers, seven militants near Afghan border to complete KHAR BAJAUR: At least house-to-house “search and cor- three soldiers and seven mili- don operation... to clear the area tants were killed yesterday in of militants”, the official said. land record a clash in Pakistan’s troubled A group of militants attacked US drone strike kills five militants northwestern tribal belt near them in the afternoon triggering PESHAWAR: A US drone are coordinating their military says it has killed more than 1,800 the Afghan border, officials said. “a heavy exchange of fire which strike yesterday killed at least efforts. Pakistan, however, offi- militants so far, with 126 soldiers digitisation Heavy exchange of fire took lasted for several hours”, the offi- five militants in a Pakistani cially denounces the strikes as having lost their lives. The lat- place during an operation to cial said, requesting anonymity as tribal region where Islamabad a violation of its sovereignty. “A est strikes came after Pakistan ISLAMABAD: The digitisa- clear suspected militants from he was not authorised to talk to launched a full-scale military US drone fired two missiles at a ramped up its anti-terror strat- tion of land records is expected the mountainous Banda area of media. offensive last year, officials compound in Shahi Khel neigh- egy in the wake of a December 16 to be completed in two major Salarzai town in Bajaur tribal The clearance operation is still said. bourhood of Shawal, killing five attack on an army-run school in Pakistani provinces of Punjab district along the Afghan border, ongoing with intermittent gun The strike targeted a Taliban terrorists,” a security official Peshawar that killed 150 people, and Sindh during this calen- local and security officials said. fire, the official added. compound in North Waziristan, said. 134 of them children. dar year. This would make “Two soldiers and an army cap- Bajaur is a part of Pakistan’s one of seven semi-autonomous Another security official con- Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif documentation transparent tain have been martyred while seven tribal districts which are tribal districts that border firmed the strike and casualties. has announced the establish- and instantly accessible to the seven militants were also killed rife with homegrown insurgents Afghanistan, and an area that The area is generally off-limits ment of military courts for public. in the clash,” a security official as well as Taliban and Al Qaeda has been a hub for Al Qaeda and to journalists, making it diffi- terror-related cases in order to And to quote experts, digitilisa- said, adding that two soldiers operatives. The mountainous Taliban militants since the early cult to independently verify the accelerate trials, and he has also tion is poised to radically change were wounded. Banda area is considered to be a 2000s. Recent drone attacks by number and identity of the dead. lifted a six-year moratorium on the country’s economic matrix. Pakistan paramilitary Frontier particular stronghold of militant the US have raised speculation The military launched a major the death penalty, reinstating it Apart from enabling a more effec- Corps and local tribal police groups, a senior government offi- that Washington and Islamabad offensive in the area in June and for terrorism-related cases. AFP tive public planning, a secure pri- early yesterday launched a cial in the area said. AFP vate land ownership will generate tangible collateral to support a flurry of market activity. Contrary to general impres- sion, Sindh was discovered to be ahead of other provinces in Facing public anger, Pakistan promises to solve fuel crisis terms of technology and coverage. Land records in the province have already been scanned and about ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s gov- by months of opposition protests 95 percent of it has been punched ernment, facing public anger last year. into the computer in a centralised over severe petrol shortages, At a meeting chaired by Sharif programme. promised yesterday the cri- yesterday, the government The collected data, a source in sis that has led to long queues decided to buy additional petrol to the Sindh government confirmed, outside petrol stations would be defuse the crisis. “From today we has been passed on to the district solved within a week. have started buying 15,000 metric administrations for physical veri- Already frustrated by crippling tonnes of petrol and in the next fication. The records have been electricity and gas shortages, 5-6 days it will be much easier made accessible to the public from Pakistanis have accused the gov- to buy petrol,” said Petroleum the service centre in Hyderabad, ernment of not acting fast enough Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. and the facility will be extended to preempt a decrease in domestic The state importer says it buys to Karachi and Sukkur by March. fuel supplies at a time of falling up to 90 percent of fuel oil and Unlike other provinces, Sindh global oil prices. petrol abroad, but this month self-financed the extensive exer- The crisis started this month it was forced to cut purchases cise and developed dedicated apps when the cash-starved state fuel because it had not been paid by for the purpose. The records are importer slashed petrol imports its customers on time. said to be in Sindhi for better by half and skipped overseas fuel The government subsidises accessibility to a majority of peo- oil purchases altogether, worsen- electricity, but rarely pays the ple in the province. ing power cuts and leading to pet- subsidies to power companies on Punjab, which had started the rol shortages around the country. time. They, in turn, cannot pay exercise much earlier, is following “This is the height of incompe- for their fuel imports, leading to close and is also reported to have tence and gross mismanagement a buildup of unpaid bills referred covered nearly 95 percent of the by the government,” said opposi- to as “circular debt”. task. In a press report, it declared tion senator Saeed Ghani. Some ambulance services were that it will complete the project The anger over the govern- forced to suspend their work by November. The cost of project ment’s handling of the crisis has because of fuel shortages, media in the biggest province is being added to the list of problems fac- reported. On the streets, disgrun- shared by multilateral donors. ing Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, tled motorists said they were run- Men wait to get fuel for their motorcycles at a fuel station in Rawalpindi yesterday. INTERNEWS his authority already weakened ning out of patience. REUTERS TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 14 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com INDIA BJP’s Nupur Kiran Bedi BJP’s Delhi CM candidate Sharma to take on Kejriwal BJP defends Bedi, cautions members against bickering Former UPA minister NEW DELHI: Former IPS stance of party as it had earlier officer Kiran Bedi (pictured), said it will not project a chief who had joined the BJP less ministerial candidate, Shah said than a week back, will be the that party had also projected chief Krishna Tirath joins BJP party’s chief ministerial can- ministerial candidates in states didate in the February 7 Delhi such as Rajasthan and Madhya NEW DELHI: In a jolt to Maken said it showed the BJP’s assembly elections, taking on Pradesh. “There is an atmos- the Congress ahead of the “nervousness and desperation”. her former anti-corruption stir phere. A decision is taken after Delhi assembly polls, Krishna He said the BJP has to colleague Arvind Kejriwal of taking into account all factors, Tirath, who was a minister in “import leaders from other par- the AAP. the political factors,” he said. the previous UPA government, ties because they have no faith She will contest from Krishna Before it took decision to yesterday joined the BJP, say- in their own leaders”. Nagar seat in east Delhi. It was induct Bedi and project a local ing there was “discipline in Tirath was women and child earlier held by Harsh Vardhan, face, the BJP in Delhi appeared this party”. development minister in the NEW DELHI: The BJP yester- the chief ministerial candidate in to bank mainly on Prime Minister Tirath, who met Bharatiya United Progressive Alliance-II day fielded a young party mem- the December 2013 elections and Narendra Modi. Janata Party (BJP) president government. ber Nupur Sharma to take on now a union minister. Answering a query about Bedi Amit Shah, said her role will be She was also a minister in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Making the announcement being an outsider, Shah said that decided by the party leadership. Sheila Dikshit government and Arvind Kejriwal (pictured) in after the meeting of party parlia- party had provided platform to “I joined the BJP because there was among the prominent faces New Delhi seat in Delhi assem- mentary board, Bharatiya Janata people from various fields and is discipline in this party... My of the party in Delhi. bly polls. The party’s first list Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah they had delivered successfully. role will be towards public serv- A Congress leader admitted of 62 candidates included new expressed confidence that the “The decision was taken with ice,” Tirath told reporters here. that Tirath’s joining the BJP entrants Kiran Bedi, Krishna decision will result in the party consensus. It has support of all,” Tirath also said the Congress came as “a kind of surprise”. Tirath and Vinod Kumar Binny. getting full majority. party leadership that it needed he said. leadership should seriously Tirath’s induction is being The list includes former union “BJP parliamentary board has a credible local face to take on Shah said the party will think why party leaders were seen as an effort by the BJP to minister and Congress leader decided that the party will fight Kejriwal who has strong anti-cor- continue to have tie-up with leaving and joining other politi- consolidate its support among Tirath from Patel Nagar. Tirath the forthcoming polls under lead- ruption credentials. AAP finished Shiromani Akali Dal in Delhi. cal parties. women and the Dalit commu- got the BJP ticket on the day she ership of Kiran Bedi. Kiranji will close to BJP in the 2013 assembly On Bedi, he said: “She has lived “There is lack of discipline nity in the national capital. declared her association with the also be the chief ministerial can- poll. The party’s decision came in Delhi throughout her life. She and vision in the Congress. The Tirath is the third well- party, creating a record of sorts. didate,” Shah said at a late night just two days before the end of is a well-known name in the fight party needs to think why its known name after former IPS Kiran Bedi has been fielded from press conference. “I feel the name nomination process for the elec- against corruption and in service leaders are quitting,” she said. officer Kiran Bedi and former Krishna Nagar, a “traditional” seat that the BJP has decided will tion to the 70 member assembly. of people.” She also praised Prime Aam Aadmi Party leader Shazia of the party. Binny, a former AAP meet the peoples’ expectations Bedi has been an anti-cor- Answering a query, he said Minister Narendra Modi. Ilmi to join the BJP over the MLA, will contest from Patparganj. and our decision will definitely ruption activist, a former tennis that decision to field Bedi from Reacting to Tirath cross- past week. IANS He joined the BJP on Sunday. lead to victory,” he added. player and her innings in Delhi Krishna Nagar, a “traditional ing over, Congress leader Ajay Briefing reporters after the Shah said that workers were Police is still widely remembered seat” of the party, had been taken meeting of party’s central elec- feeling enthused since Bedi took in the city. She initiated prison so that she could devote time to tion committee and parliamentary membership of the party. “It has reforms in the Tihar Central Jail campaign in all the seats. actor-turned-politician’s state- reporters. “We need a leader, and board, BJP leader and union min- raised their morale,” he said. Bedi when she was heading it. She Earlier in the day, in view of a ments to the media, the BJP not a policeman, who can take ister JP Nadda said that party’s had joined the BJP on January 15. has won the Ramon Magsaysay party MP criticising Bedi in pub- “cautioned all” not to say any- everyone along,” he said. Delhi unit chief Satish Upadhyay Shah dismissed suggestions award, an honour she shares with lic, the BJP “cautioned” its leaders thing which could go against its The BJP defended Bedi’s “con- will not contest the polls. that there were differences Kejriwal. Both were part of the against making comments “con- interests, party sources said. duct” and said she was doing all Nupur Sharma a former among party leaders over Bedi’s anti-corruption agitation led by trary to the party line” that might Tiwari was quoted as saying that to strengthen the party. Delhi University Students Union projection as chief ministerial Gandhian Anna Hazare. affect its prospects in the upcom- that Bedi “is a party worker” and “She wants to form the gov- president. She was associated candidate. “Every worker is one Since her induction in the BJP, ing Delhi assembly election. must behave like one. ernment (in Delhi), she wants to with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi on this,” he said. Bedi has talked about her priori- After BJP Lok Sabha member “She should be humble, she strengthen the party, that’s why Parishad, the student wing of the The BJP’s decision on naming ties — as a likely candidate to lead Manoj Tiwari commented against has been brought in as a BJP she’s meeting MPs,” Delhi BJP in- BJP. Her name was being consid- Bedi, 65, as chief ministerial can- the party’s campaign. the induction of Bedi, and some worker. She is not the chief min- charge Prabhat Jha told report- ered by the party against Kejriwal didate came after feeling in the Asked about change in the other BJP leaders reacting to the isterial candidate so far,” he told ers. IANS even in 2013 elections. IANS

Workers atop hoarding Kerala saw Kerala bar owner’s tapes suggest jump in tourist arrivals, revenue leaders knew of KM Mani bribe THIRUVANANTHAPU- Following the release of the THIRUVANANTHAPU- RAM: Two audio recordings tapes, Chief Minister Oommen RAM: Kerala witnessed an of telephone conversations Chandy (pictured) said no one increase in tourist arrivals, rev- between a whistleblower bar could destabilise his government. enue and the number of rooms owner and leaders of Kerala’s “My government cannot be during 2014, a minister said. ruling UDF released yesterday destabilised by anyone, because Final figures for the calendar ostensibly showed that the poli- this is a government that has the year 2014 are being finalised, ticians knew about the Rs1crore support of the people. The people Tourism Minister AP Anil Kumar (Rs10m) bribe allegedly taken are with us as could be seen with told the media while outlining the by state Finance Minister KM our victories in the bye-elections tourism department’s plans for Mani. and also in the Lok Sabha elec- 2015. Whistleblower bar owner tions,” Chandy said here. “The figures for the first three Biju Ramesh alleged in October Chandy also vehemently denied quarters of 2014 showed a jump in 2014 that Rs1crore was given to Pillai ever told him such things. both arrivals and revenue, though Mani as the first instalment of “I have not met Pillai for some the industry suffered a setback the Rs5crore he demanded to time now and he has never said for a while in the last quarter on help reopen bars in the state. was taking bribes from several any such thing to me at all,” the account of the bird flu scare. But Following the allegation, the vig- business groups. Pillai is heard chief minister said. on the whole, for the year, there ilance department registered a telling Ramesh that he should Pillai later told reporters that has been an increase and very case against Mani. not backtrack on his statement, it was wrong of Ramesh to have shortly we will be releasing the The audio recordings aired and should approach the Kerala made a private conversation pub- complete figures,” Anil Kumar on TV channels revealed that High Court seeking a probe by the lic. “I do not deny anything what said. Ramesh had called R Balakrishna Central Bureau of Investigation has been aired. I had told Chandy Kerala Tourism is readying a Pillai, a senior leader in the (CBI) into the bar graft case. about this and also of another new plan for boosting tourism in Congress-led United Democratic A second conversation involved minister who was taking bribes,” the fiscal starting April 1. “We Front (UDF), who said he Ramesh and PC George, govern- Pillai said. will concentrate on markets like knew about the bribe allegedly ment chief whip and party vice Defending himself, George China, and Middle East. Already demanded by Mani. Pillai is heard chairman of the Kerala Congress- said all that he did while speak- we have made inroads into the saying he along with his son KB Mani. George is heard saying that ing to Ramesh was to save Mani. Middle East. China is one mar- Ganesh Kumar — a former min- even though he defends Mani on Ramesh said he will hand over the ket where we will be holding road ister in the Chandy cabinet — had TV channel debates, it should not audio tape to the vigilance depart- Labourers work at an advertising hoarding in Mumbai yesterday as the shows,” Anil Kumar said. IANS told the chief minister that Mani be given any importance. ment today. IANS financial centre is home to the majority of the country’s high-rise buildings. Police arrest nine after men burnt alive in Bihar communal violence

NEW DELHI: Police have inspector general of police in Police said 10 adjoining houses arrested nine people after a Muzaffarpur district. were also gutted and 15 vehicles mob torched a house and burnt “The hunt is on for others. damaged in the violence, which to death three men thought to Three persons were burnt alive,” lasted for four hours on Sunday be Muslims in an outbreak of Nath said. “One accused in the morning. Couples from different communal violence in northern murder of the teenage boy has religions in India are often tar- India, an official said yesterday. also been arrested.” geted by their families and com- Police in riot gear were patrol- The body of 19-year-old munity members for supposedly ling a village where Sunday’s Bhartendu Kumar was discovered bringing “dishonour”, sometimes hours-long rampage and attack on Saturday in his native village resulting in confrontations and occurred in Bihar state, with ten- of Saraiya, 102km from the state even deadly violence and full- sions still high between the major- capital Patna, after he disap- scale riots. ity Hindu and minority Muslim peared days earlier. Critics say Hindu hardline communities. A mob armed with sticks and groups have become more embold- The attack was triggered by the other sharp weapons attacked ened since the Hindu nationalist discovery of the body of a teenage the house of one of the people Bharatiya Janata Party stormed Hindu boy, allegedly murdered by suspected by Kumar’s family of to power at elections in May. family members of a Muslim girl kidnapping and murdering him, Alongside the 80 percent Hindu who objected to the pair’s sus- police said. majority, Muslims make up 13.4 pected relationship. Rioters set his house on fire, percent of India’s 1.2 billion popu- “We have identified the attack- killing three residents, thought to lation, with Christians, Buddhists, ers and nine accused have been belong to the Muslim community Sikhs and other religions account- Burnt wreckage of vehicles, set on fire by a rioting mob, are seen in front of a charred house at Sareya village in arrested,” said Paras Nath, and injuring two others. ing for the rest. AFP Muzaffarpur district of Bihar yesterday. TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 INDIA www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 15 Tharoor questioned by Fair at Sangam police in Sunanda case Five-member team of SIT questions Congress MP

NEW DELHI: Delhi Police Indira Gandhi International (IGI) yesterday questioned Congress airport around 2pm, he went to MP Shashi Tharoor (pictured) his house in Lodhi Estate area in in the mysterious murder of central Delhi without answering his wife Sunanda Pushkar in questions from the media stand- January last year. ing outside the airport. Tharoor reached the Vasant The SIT has questioned at least Vihar police station in south 12 people, including Tharoor’s Delhi yesterday evening — a few security staff members and hours after he was issued a notice. domestic help, who were present The questioning lasted over four in the hotel in south Delhi’s Leela hours. Police had constituted a Palace hotel when Pushkar was special investigative team (SIT) to found dead in a hotel room. probe the murder after register- Meanwhile, Delhi Police ing a FIR in the case on January 1 Commissioner BS Bassi, asked to this year. The FIR was filed based comment on reports about then on Pushkar’s third autopsy report information and broadcasting by the AIIMS medical board. 161 (examination of witnesses by minister Manish Tewari being A five member team of SIT — police) of the Criminal Procedure present in the flight from Kerala including a deputy commissioner Code. Tharoor was called for on January 15 on which the couple of police, an additional deputy questioning fist time in connec- had a fight, said: “The possibility commissioner, an assistant com- tion with his wife’s murder case. cannot be ruled out.” missioner and two inspectors — He had reached the national He said the process of sending had questioned Tharoor. capital yesterday from Bengaluru, the viscera of Pushkar to the US Police said that Tharoor’s state- where he had gone to attend a for special investigation was on. Hindu devotees walk across a pontoon bridge at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and the ment was recorded under section school function. Landing at the IANS mythical Saraswati, on the eve of ‘Mauni Amavasya’, or new moon day, in Allahabad, yesterday. Mauni Amavasya is considered the most auspicious date of bathing during the annual month long “Magh Mela” religious fair.

India Gate closed Modi says Sirisena will promote reconciliation to public ahead NEW DELHI: New Sri on him, an official statement according to him, was “a vote for cooperation and reconciliation covering the entire expanse of Lankan President Maithripala said. Samaraweera is on his first unity and change in Sri Lanka”. efforts in Sri Lanka. the “close and friendly (bilateral) Sirisena will promote reconcili- foreign trip after Sirisena took Ending a decade of rule by his Indian development partner- relations”. of Republic Day, ation in his island nation with power on January 9. He met predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa, ship projects in Sri Lanka and Samaraweera indicated that his a vision for inclusiveness, Prime his Indian counterpart Sushma Sirisena stormed to power mainly issues related to the alleged tres- choice of New Delhi as his first Obama visit Minister Narendra Modi said Swaraj on Sunday. on the strength of votes he gar- passing of Indian fishermen into destination “reflects the priority yesterday. Modi admired Sirisena’s vision nered from Muslims and Tamils Sri Lankan waters were also dis- the new Sri Lankan government NEW DELHI: Entry to World Describing Sri Lanka as “a of a “truly Sri Lankan govern- as well as his own strongholds in cussed on Sunday. gives to relations between our two War I monument India Gate truly close neighbour and friend”, ment”, inclusive of all voices, and Sinhalese areas. At the Sushma Swaraj- countries”. was shut for people from yes- Modi offered New Delhi’s contin- the initial steps taken by the new Thanking Sirisena for accept- Samaraweera meeting that lasted India and Sri Lanka agreed to terday in view of heightened ued support and partnership to government for political reconcili- ing his invitation to visit India, three hours, New Delhi agreed re-engage on the issue of repatri- security for US President Colombo and the Sri Lankan peo- ation and inclusiveness. Modi said he looked forward to to work “closely and extensively” ation of Tamil refugees currently Barack Obama who will be the ple in “realising their aspirations”. Modi also congratulated receiving him at an early date. with Colombo. in India. A meeting of officials on chief guest at the Republic Day The prime minister made the Sirisena and Prime Minister Modi also accepted an invite to An external affairs ministry this will be held later this month. parade on January 26. US and observations when Sri Lankan Ranil Wikramasinghe for the Colombo. Samaraweera, who statement said the two ministers They also agreed to resolve the Indian agencies yesterday con- External Affairs Minister former’s impressive victory in met Sushma Swaraj Sunday, dis- “had extremely cordial, posi- dragging row involving Indian tinued to work out issues con- Mangala Samaraweera called the presidential polls which, cussed ways to enhance bilateral tive and substantive discussion”, fishermen. IANS cerning security in the capital. Sources said security officials of the two countries had discussions concerning deployment and there were suggestions from US officials for deploying snipers on buildings Apex court to hear plea for Opposition slams Mamata over in the vicinity of Rajpath. The suggestion to deploy only US snipers was not likely to be monitoring Saradha probe accepted as the Indian personnel woman’s torture by police had the requisite expertise. A seven-layer security ring NEW DELHI: The Supreme for the present consider it neces- KOLKATA: Strongly con- Party state president Rahul this heinous act? Her silence is will be thrown around the VVIP Court said yesterday it will hear sary to constitute a monitoring demning the alleged torture Sinha also demanded a state- reflective of the anarchy that is enclosure at Rajpath during the petitions by the West Bengal team to monitor the progress of of a housewife by police in ment on the issue from Chief prevailing in the name of admin- parade to be witnessed by the US government and the Trinamool the investigation into the scam. West Bengal’s Birbhum dis- Minister Banerjee. “The way her istration,” Sinha said. president and other dignitaries. Congress urging it to monitor But, we leave the exercise of that trict, the BJP, Congress and the entire body was slashed and police A BJP delegation led by party Security around Rajpath was the CBI probe into the multi- option open for the future.” CPI-M yesterday slammed the rubbed nettle leaves on her pri- legislator Samik Bhattacharya beefed up yesterday. The Central crore rupee Saradha scam and As Sibal sought an early hearing Mamata Banerjee government vate parts is a glaring example of met the woman’s family in Panrui Reserve Police Force has been alleged leakage of information. on Thursday, the court asked him and demanded action against not only barbarism of police but in the district and submitted deployed at various points lead- A bench of Justice TS Thakur the reason for the urgency. Sibal the police officials. is also reflective of the nexus of a memorandum to the police ing to India Gate. and Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel then said: “Information is reaching While the BJP sought the the Trinamool Congress govern- superintendent. The roads leading to the said it would hear the matter on other parties much earlier than intervention of Governor KN ment and anti-social elements,” Slamming the government over British-built India Gate, a sym- Thursday as senior counsel Kapil the West Bengal government as Tripathi, the Communist Party of Sinha said. the rising crime chart, CPI-M bol of Delhi, have been barricaded. Sibal told it that information from there was a leakage.” India-Marxist, besides approach- Sinha claimed Tripathi has state secretary Biman Bose The Republic Day parade the CBI reached the West Bengal Seeking the apex court monitor- ing the Calcutta High Court, ordered the director general of claimed the incident was a reflec- originates from Vijay Chowk, government and the accused much ing of the CBI probe into Saradha called for protest marches across police to immediately suspend tion of the administration giving close to Rashtrapati Bhavan, later than other people. scam, Trinamool general secretary the state today. the police personnel involved in patronage to criminals. another British-built building. Probing the scam that came to Mohua Moitra in her application The woman, who is recuper- the act. He said the party will take out The armoured and marching col- light in April 2014, the Central said: “CBI is now merely acting as ating in a hospital, alleged that Questioning Banerjee’s silence protest marches across the state. umns march down the tree-lined Bureau of Investigation (CBI) a tool in the hands of the ruling a police team on Saturday came over the matter, Sinha demanded CPI-M leader and advocate Rajpath. While the armoured and the Enforcement Directorate party at the centre and seems to looking for her nephew, a local the state government provide a Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya contingents halt at the India Gate have questioned many Trinamool be conducting the investigations to BJP leader wanted for involve- compensation of Rs10 lakh to the during the day approached the ground, soldiers and others who MPs. Sibal noted that the court strategically target the prominent ment in clashes in Parui. woman and said the party will Calcutta High Court. “Often march walk all the way up to the that while handing over the probe leaders of the party (Trinamool) Police forcibly took her away move the Calcutta High Court courts take suo motu cognizance Red Fort in Old Delhi. Traffic to the CBI, had said that it would so as to destabilise the state gov- to a jungle and tortured her to over the issue. in such cases. So I approached the restrictions have been imposed in not monitor this but could do so if ernment and leave the party bereft extract information about her “More than 24 hours have bench of Chief Justice Manjula the heart of the city. Key roads the need arose. of leaders at the helm in line with nephew, she said. passed but she (Banerjee) has not Chellur which admitted my plea like Rafi Marg, Janpath and Man The apex court by its May 9, agenda of the ruling party at the Besides seeking Tripathi’s spoken a single word. Does that to take suo motu cognizance,” Singh Road will be closed from 2014 verdict had said: “We do not centre.” IANS intervention, Bharatiya Janata mean she endorses and supports Bhattacharya said. IANS January 24-26. IANS

Kashmiri Pandit migrants protest Pahlaj Nihalani appointed new film censor board chairperson NEW DELHI: Four days 19, 2015 for a period of three years regulates the public exhibition of after Leela Samson quit, film or until further orders, whichever films under the provisions of the producer Pahlaj Nihalani, is earlier,” read a statement from Cinematograph Act 1952. younger brother of filmmaker the ministry of information and Samson, an acclaimed Govind Nihalani, was yester- broadcasting. Bharatnatyam dancer, was day appointed the chairperson The nine members appointed appointed its chair in 2011, and of the Central Board of Film with immediate effect include she and her members were con- Certification (CBFC), along Mihir Bhuta, Syed Abdul Bari, tinuing on interim extensions. with nine new members. Ramesh Patange, George Baker, Following her, 10 of the Censor Nihalani has produced films Chandra Prakash Dwivedi, Board’s members — Ira Bhaskar, like “Shola Aur Shabnam” Jeevitha, Vani Tripathi Tikoo, S Lora Prabhu, Pankaj Sharma, and “Andaz” in the past, and Ve Shekhar and Ashoke Pandit. Rajeev Masand, Sekharbabu is a former president of the The decision comes just days Kancherla, Shaji N Karun, Association of Motion Picture and after Samson resigned as CBFC Shubhra Gupta, TG Thyagarajan, Television Programme Producers. chairperson, citing interference, Mamang Dai and Arundhati Nag “The Central Government is coercion and corruption of panel — also put in their papers via a pleased to appoint Pahlaj Nihalani members. letter to the ministry, citing the Members of the Kashmiri Pandit group, All Parties Migrants Coordination Committee, protest 25 years of exile, as Chairperson of the Central CBFC is a statutory body “cavalier and dismissive manner” in Srinagar, yesterday. Board of Film Certification in an under the ministry of infor- in which the board is treated by honorary capacity from January mation and broadcasting. It the government. IANS TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 16 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com MORNING BREAK

PRAYER TIME Ice city

Fajr (Dawn) 5:01 Shorook (Sunrise) 6:21 Zuhr (Noon) 11:45 Asr (Afternoon) 2:48 Maghrib (Sunset) 5:10 Isha (Night) 6:40

WEATHER

Today Wednesday Thursday Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy Clear Clear Moderate temperature High: 19° High: 20° High: 20° during day with Low: 12° Low: 14° Low: 14° some clouds and cold by night.

DOHA - SUN & SEA

SUN TIDE SEA SUNRISE | SUNSET HIGH | LOW WIND 06:21 17:10 05:00 & 16:00 12:00 & 22:15 18-25/28 KT

THE REGION TODAY TOMORROW

HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER

MUSCAT 21/17 Partly cloudy 21/15 Partly cloudy MAKKAH 31/20 Clear 33/20 Clear KUWAIT 18/05 Clear 19/05 Clear Chinese and foreign tourists visit the annual International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival in Harbin, the capital of Northeast Heilongjiang Province. BAHRAIN 18/11 Clear 19/11 Clear The festival is the largest of its kind in the world, showcasing the largest ice and snow sculptures. SANAA 22/04 Partly cloudy 22/04 Clear RIYADH 18/06 Clear 19/06 Clear DUBAI 20/12 Clear 22/13 Clear BAGHDAD 18/04 Partly cloudy 19/06 Clear UK spies stored journalists’ emails THE WORLD TODAY TOMORROW LONDON: HI/LO WEATHER HI/LO WEATHER Britain’s GCHQ eavesdropping press releases to discussions between reporters accordance with a strict legal and pol- agency stored emails from journalists work- and editors about stories, were accessed by a tap icy framework, which ensures that our ATHENS 16/11 Partly cloudy 16/08 Clear ing for several large media organisations, on fibre-optic cables, saved by GCHQ and then activities are authorised, necessary and WASHINGTON 09/05 Mostly cloudy 06/02 Chance of rain according to documents released by former shared on its intranet as part of a test exercise. proportionate, and that there is rigorous SYDNEY 28/21 Thunderstorm 28/21 Chance of rain US spy agency contractor Edward Snowden, The Guardian said new evidence from oversight,” the agency said in a statement. the Guardian newspaper reported. British intelligence documents revealed by Snowden caused an international uproar LONDON 05/01 Mostly cloudy 04/00 Chance of rain The emails from the New York Times, Snowden also showed that a GCHQ infor- in 2013 when he disclosed details of the PARIS 03/-1 Mostly cloudy 05/01 Chance of showers the Washington Post, the Guardian, the mation security assessment had listed inves- extent of surveillance and electronic moni- ISTANBUL 12/08 Clear 12/08 Partly cloudy Sun, Le Monde, NBC, the BBC and Reuters tigative journalists as a threat along with toring by the US National Security Agency MANILA 31/23 Clear 31/22 Partly cloudy were among 70,000 harvested as part of a terrorists and hackers. Asked about the and its British equivalent, the General DHAKA 25/14 Clear 26/14 Clear 10-minute bulk surveillance exercise on one report, GCHQ said it did not comment on Communications Headquarters, or GCHQ. DELHI 20/10 Partly cloudy 18/10 Chance of rain day in November 2008, the newspaper said. intelligence matters. Facing charges in the United States, he fled ISLAMABAD 12/08 Rain 13/06 Rain The communications, which ranged from “All of GCHQ’s work is carried out in to Russia where he still lives. REUTERS New maps offer clearer view of global agriculture Mother’s milk WASHINGTON: To know pre- Analysis (IIASA) and accurate enough for most appli- This map was based entirely currently exists,” added IIASA bank in Jaipur cisely where agricultural land is Washington-based International cations. The global cropland map on crowd sourced data collected researcher and co-author Linda located for regional and global Food Policy Research Institute is a low cost solution to fill this through IIASA’s Geo-Wiki project See. According to the researchers, hospital soon food security planning, two new (IFPRI). need,” said IIASA researcher that looked at thousands of high the new maps show the power of maps offer a clearer view of glo- The first map shows global Steffen Fritz who led the project. resolution images of land cover to crowd sourcing for massive data JAIPUR: Mahatma Gandhi bal agriculture. cropland percentages at one-km The study also presents the determine whether cropland was analysis projects. Hospital (MGH), a multi-spe- The maps have been developed resolution for the year 2005. first ever global field-size map - present or not. The study appeared in the jour- cialty private hospital in the by Austria-based International “Current sources of informa- an important proxy for mecha- “The field size map is really nal Global Change Biology. western Indian state of Rajastan, Institute for Applied Systems tion on cropland extent are not nisation and human development. unique - no such global product AGENCIES is soon going to have a mother’s milk bank, hospital officials said. “We have already signed a memo- randum of understanding (MoU) Grab a handful Lighting balls with Inaya Foundation, an NGO, in this regard,” R C Gupta, addi- of nuts daily for tional superintendent, MGH, said. super health “We have started work to set up ‘Amrit” mother’ milk bank WASHINGTON: A study in our hospital with the help of involving 14,386 young adults Inaya Foundation and we hope to has found that the consump- start it in next couple of months,” tion of tree nuts — at least 44 Vikas Swarankar, member, Board grammes per day — is asso- of Management, MGH said. ciated with better nutrient MGH, a multi-specialty teach- adequacy in the diet and bet- ing hospital has 1,000 beds. All ter diet quality. beds in the general ward are free Tree nuts are almonds, for the masses of Rajasthan espe- Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, cially the poor and the weaker macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, sections of society. It would be the pistachios and walnuts. second such mother’s milk bank “Consumption of tree nuts in Rajasthan. The first bank was should be encouraged as part inaugurated in Udaipur in a gov- of a healthy diet by health ernment hospital, some 400 km professionals to improve from Jaipur, in April 2013. Similar diet quality and nutrient banks are situated in Pune, Surat, adequacy,” said Carol O’Neil, Mumbai and Kolkata. professor at Louisiana State “Mother’s milk can save the life University’s agricultural of an infant born in some particu- centre. lar condition. It is like giving blood He also stressed the need to an accident victim who needs it for nutrition education pro- immediately,” Inaya Foundation’s grammes that increase aware- secretary Nitisha Sharma said. ness and consumption of tree Rajendra Mishra, project nuts. advisor of Inaya Foundation, The team found that when said a survey conducted by the it comes to nutrient adequacy Rajasthan government found that for most nutrients, tree nut 42 percent of newborns in the state consumers fared better than were undernourished and needed non-consumers. Children play with lighting balls at the ‘Shake! Art Exhibition! and Learn and Play! teamLab Future Park’ at National Museum of Emerging Science and mother’s milk. IANS IANS Innovation in Tokyo yesterday. TeamLab is a collaborative of Japanese digital artists. Indian-made vaccine approved to fight meningitis in Africa

ACCRA: A vaccine against Africa. The MenAfriVac vaccine “Developing the MenAfriVac executive, Cyrus Poonawalla. Africa, and has been described by meningitis prepared by an was developed by the Indian vaccine fits exactly (with) SIIL was contracted by the MVP officials as “an innovative Indian company has been company, Serum Institute of Serum’s ingrained philosophy of Meningitis Vaccine Project and affordable vaccine that has approved by the World Health India Limited (SIIL), under a bringing down prices of vaccines (MVP) to produce the vaccine, all but rid the meningitis belt (in Organisation (WHO), paving project of the global non-profit so that under-privileged chil- which has finally been approved sub-Saharan Africa) of a major the way for its use to eradi- health organisation PATH and dren of the world are protected,” by the WHO for routine immuni- cause of deadly epidemics”. cate the disease in sub-Saharan the WHO. said the Pune- based SIIL’s chief sation of infants in sub-Saharan IANS Tuesday 20 January 2015 29 Rabial I 1436 Volume 19 Number 6316 Price: QR2

www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Saudi can last 8 years on low oil prices Riyadh has enough currency reserves to ride out long-term crisis, says former adviser

LONDON: A former adviser to faces western sanctions over its Saudi Arabia has said the coun- nuclear programme. try can withstand eight years or A meeting between Saudi No plans to call emergency more of low oil prices as tensions Arabia’s foreign minister and his over the price slump simmered Iranian counterpart was post- Opec meeting, says Iran between the world’s biggest oil poned partly because of disagree- exporter and Iran. ment over the falling oil price, DUBAI: Iran has no plans to call for an emergency Opec meet- Mohammad Al Sabban told the Bloomberg reported. Saudi Arabia ing to discuss the falling price of oil but was talking to some BBC that Saudi Arabia was con- and other producers in the Gulf members of the producer club about stemming the decline, the cerned about the falling oil price “are expected to make efforts country’s oil minister said. but its cash reserves and planned to stop the fall in oil prices and In remarks posted on the oil ministry’s website SHANA, Bijan budget cuts meant it could cope not let the decline have a lasting Namdar Zanganeh called for increased cooperation between mem- with a long period of depressed impact on oil-producing nations’ bers of Opec. “Iran has no plan (to hold an emergency Opec meeting) prices. economies”, said Hossein Amir- and is currently in consultations with other Opec member states in “Saudi Arabia can sustain these Abdollahian, Iran’s deputy foreign a bid to prevent the sharp fall in the oil price, but these consulta- low oil prices for at least eight minister for Arab and African tions have yet to bear fruit,” he said. years. First, we have huge finan- affairs. Opec oil exporters, led by Saudi Arabia, chose in November to cial reserves of about 3 trillion Tensions have been building maintain oil output despite the global glut and calls from some of the Saudi riyals (£527bn). Second, between Iran and other Arab oil cartel’s members - including Iran and Venezuela - to cut production. Saudi Arabia is embarking now states over what Iran has said is A diplomatic push by Venezuela and Iran for an Opec oil output cut on rationalising its expenditure, The GOSP2 (Gas Oil Separation Plant) burns off excess gas that cannot be an international plot to weaken has failed to soften the refusal of the group’s Gulf members to do so trying to take all the fat out of the sent to the refinery at the oilfield in Shaybah, Saudi Arabia. Tehran by forcing down the price for now, delegates said last week. The Organisation of the Petroleum budget,” Sabban told the BBC’s of oil. Saudi Arabia and Kuwait Exporting Countries accounts for a third of global oil output. World Business Report. “I think minister for petroleum. He also move out of the market on the opposed Iran’s unsuccessful effort Zanganeh said Iran had no plans to cut is oil production and added [Saudi Arabia] is worried but we suggested that lower oil prices one hand, and also if there is any to persuade Opec to cut output Iran’s budget should be based on oil at $72 per barrel, but Iran could [have to] wait for the full medi- could have long-term benefits for increase in demand that will be at its last meeting in November. withstand lower oil prices. “Even if the oil price goes down to $25 a cine that we have prescribed for Saudi Arabia. welcomed.” The price of crude oil has barrel, the oil industry will not be threatened,” the Fars news agency ourself to take its course.” Saudi Arabia has refused to cut His comments were a fur- more than halved since June quoted him as saying. REUTERS Without cuts in spending on production despite a more than ther signal that Saudi Arabia 2014 because demand has weak- infrastructure, sports stadiums 50 percent fall in the price of oil was prepared to use its finan- ened, particularly from China, and new cities, Saudi Arabia since last summer. “To shorten cial strength to ride out while the US shale boom has 1.8 percent to $49.29, as trad- by the European Central Bank can withstand low oil prices for the cycle, you need to allow depressed oil prices now pil- increased global production. ers expected gloomy economic on Thursday aimed at stimulat- at least four years, said Sabban, prices to go as low as possible ing pressure on other produc- Brent crude slipped back below growth figures from China today ing the eurozone economy. a former adviser to the Saudi to see those marginal producers ers, including Iran, which also $50 a barrel yesterday, falling and a bond-buying programme THE GUARDIAN

Firms in Mena raise Egypt allows QR41.9bn via IPOs pound to DOHA: Companies in the National Commercial Bank fall again Middle East and North Africa (NCB), Saudi Arabia’s biggest (Mena) region raised $11.5bn bank by asset size, was the big- CAIRO: Egypt’s central bank let (QR41.9bn) in 2014 through 27 gest IPO in Mena history and sec- the pound weaken yesterday for Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), ond largest globally. The IPO was the second day running, a move almost four times more than oversubscribed 23 times ahead of analysts said was aimed at stamp- the $3bn (QR10.9bn) raised in its IPO in November 2014. ing out a thriving black market as 2013 through 25 IPOs, accord- Mayur Pau, Mena IPO Leader, inflation concerns ease. ing to Ernst & Young (EY) EY, said: “The strong Q4 per- The bank allowed the pound Mena IPO Eye: Q4 2014. This formance closed 2014 on a posi- reach 7.24 pounds per dollar at was the highest amount of capi- tive note, as investor confidence yesterday’s auction, its weak- tal raised in 2014 since 2008. in the region remains high despite est level since dollar sales were However, the decline in oil the backdrop of volatile equity introduced in December 2012, and prices has left regional and markets and falling oil prices. was expected to let it depreciate international investors con- The impact of this has been felt further to close the gap with the cerned about the curtailment of in the regional stock exchanges unofficial rate that has been wid- future government spending on in Dubai, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Top dignitaries and officials at the signing ceremony on Sunday. ening for months. infrastructure, education and Qatar and Bahrain, which have The central bank made a simi- healthcare. This would have an tumbled over the past few lar move in the first half of 2014, impact on companies operating months. Investors are becom- but had held the pound steady in these sectors in the short run, ing more cautious despite other Nebras Power signs finance pact at 7.14 for over six months amid and investors would be cautious to market fundamentals remaining what currency traders said was raise money through IPO in the largely unchanged. Amid all the concern that further depreciation first quarter this year, according positive signs that indicate IPO for solar power project in Jordan would fuel inflation. to a statement. market growth, uncertainty still Inflation spiked in Egypt after Phil Gandier, Mena Transaction exists in the market.” the government slashed energy Advisory Services Leader, EY, The region witnessed the DOHA: Nebras Power, with its Board of Directors, and Khalid 2015 and commercial operation is subsidies in July, prompting the said: “The year 2014 was good for return of greenfield IPOs after partners Diamond Generating M Jolo, Chief Executive Officer. to begin by end of July 2016. central bank to raise rates by 100 Mena IPO markets, moving closer several years. Greenfield IPOs Europe and Kawar Group, have The financing of the project is Fahad Hamad Al Mohannadi basis points that month. to the pre-crisis capital raised in went out of fashion partly because signed a finance agreement jointly done by a group of inter- said: “We are very pleased to The rates at which banks are 2008 of $13.2bn. Despite the signif- of the authorities’ unfamiliarity for Shams Ma’an Solar Power national banks and export credit sign the financing agreement for allowed to trade dollars are deter- icant improvement in the capital with a structure that was not Plant Project in Jordan. agencies including Japan for Shams Ma’an project and we con- mined by the results of the cen- raised during 2014, many compa- directly asset-backed or based Nebras is a Qatari joint International Cooperation (JBIC), firm that Nebras Power continues tral bank sales, giving it effective nies took the decision to delay or on historical performance. The stock company in which Qatar Nippon Export and Investment with its commitment to expand control over official rates, whereas abort their IPO plans in Q4 due IPO of Marka, Dubai Parks and Electricity and Water Company Insurance (NEXI), Mizuho Bank internationally in a conservative many businesses and ordinary to declining oil prices. Although Resorts, and Amanat Holdings (QEWC) owns 60 percent, Qatar and Standard Charter Bank. manner while sticking to its core people use the black market. there is a healthy pipeline of IPOs in 2014 signalled significant suf- Holding LLC owns 20 percent and Nebras Power along with its areas of expertise. The impor- It introduced a fourth weekly for 2015, companies are adopting ficient investor confidence in the Qatar Petroleum International partners in accordance with tance of this project comes from auction in December to ease a “wait-and-see” approach until UAE in particular to invest in Ltd has 20 percent stake. this agreement will finance the being the first project and invest- mounting currency pressure, markets have settled. The inter- these companies. The finance agreement for development of the project and ment for Nebras Power and is but this proved ineffective. est is still there, but companies Both Amanat and Dubai Parks Shams Ma’an solar power plant own and operate the Shams a confirmation of the company’s Foreign reserves fell to $15.33bn are watching the markets closely, and Resorts were oversubscribed project in Jordan is for 18 years Ma’an solar power plant in Ma’an policy of diversifying the fuel in December after Egypt repaid a waiting for the right window of similar to Marka, however, both with capacity of 52.5MW. Nebras Jordan. The project’s importance its future investments.” Qatari deposit and defended the opportunity to float.” companies have lost value since Power owns 35 percent of the comes from being one of the first Khalid M Jolo said: “We are pound. Saudi Arabia and UAE were IPO following volatility in the project, while DGE owns 35 per- renewable energy projects and the proud of this investment which is Expectations the bank would the two most active IPO markets equity markets to 16.5 percent cent and Kawar Group owns 30 largest of its kind in Jordan. considered an expansion to Qatari devalue had grown since it in the region in 2014. Both mar- and 20 percent, respectively, percent, a regulatory filing on Shams Ma’an Power investments in Jordan and a trans- announced a surprise 50-basis- kets have collectively raised close while Marka’s value at year end Qatar Exchange noted yesterday. Generation company has already lation of the exceptional relation- point cut in benchmark interest to $10bn in IPOs. Industrial man- remained stable. The signing ceremony took signed power purchase agreement ship between Qatar and Jordan. rates on Thursday, saying plum- ufacturing was the most active However, a decline in the share place at the Prime Ministry with National Electric & Power This project will support meeting meting global oil prices had eased sector in 2014 with five IPOs, fol- value for these greenfield com- building in Amman, Jordan, Company of Jordan in March the power demand requirements the inflation outlook. lowed by three IPOs each in food panies in particular, following on Sunday, in the presence of 2014. It also signed an engineer- in Jordan and will have positive Egypt is an energy importer and beverages, oil and gas and volatility in the equity markets Jordan Prime Minister Abdullah ing, procurement and construc- impact on the continuous develop- and a major wheat importer. real estate sectors. The fourth in Q4, 2014, has prompted the Ensour and Japan Prime Minister tion contract and operation & ment in Jordan. Nebras Power will Global commodities fluctuations quarter (Q4) of 2014 witnessed UAE Securities and Commodities Shinzo Abe. Nebras Power was maintenance contract with First strongly focus on building its port- can have a major impact on its the largest listing in Mena history Authority to consider banning all represented during the sign- Solar of USA in July 2014. The folio in a balanced manner which balance of payments and inflation, and the second largest globally but a limited class of start-ups. ing ceremony by Fahad H Al project construction is expected to will include renewables.” affecting rate decisions. raising $7.4bn through eight IPOs. THE PENINSULA Mohannadi, Chairman of the start in the second half of March THE PENINSULA REUTERS TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 18 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Private sector pushes Qatar banks’ credit growth by 20pc in 2014

DOHA: The Qatar banks’ loan the month of December 2014. 13.1 percent MoM (+43.3 percent 4.2 percent MoM and are up 20.4 book increased by 4.9 percent Delving into segment details, the in 2014). percent in 2014. Real Estate fol- and the deposits inched up by government institutions’ segment The overall loan book posted a lowed by Consumption & Others 0.3 percent month-on-month declined by 8.1 percent MoM (+4.2 strong performance. Total domes- and services positively contrib- (MoM) in December 2014. The percent in 2014). Moreover, the tic public sector loans increased uted toward the loan growth. Real loan book was up 13.1 percent semi-government institutions’ by 5.8 percent MoM (still down Estate increased by 5.9 percent year-on-year (YoY) and depos- segment posted a modest decline 2.6 percent in 2014). The gov- MoM. Consumption & Others its rose by 9.6 percent YoY. of 0.9 percent MoM (up 4.8 per- ernment segment’s loan book increased by 4.1 percent MoM. Private sector pushed total cent in 2014). Furthermore, the went up by 26.2 percent MoM Services increased by 5.0 percent credit growth up 4.2 percent government segment decreased (reversed its downward trend and MoM. MoM (up 20.4 percent YoY for by 7.6 percent MoM (down 13.2 posted a 14.5 percent increase in Overall for 2014, consumption 2014). Moreover, deposits gained percent in 2014). On the other 2014). Moreover, the government & others followed by General by 0.3 percent MoM taking the hand, private sector deposits institutions’ segment grew by 5.6 Trade and Services were the overall 2014 growth to 9.6 per- increased by 4.1 percent MoM percent MoM and is still down biggest contributors to the loan cent. Thus, the loan-to-deposit (+14.1 percent in 2014). 7.9 percent in 2014. However, the book growth. Consumption & ratio (LDR) grew to 109 percent On the private sector front, semi-government institutions’ Others increased by 22.2% in as against 105 percent at the end the companies & institutions’ segment declined by 22.1 per- 2014. General Trade grew by 34.0 of 2013, QNB Financial Services segment increased by 7.3 percent cent MoM (down 7.4 percent in percent in 2014. Services segment (QNBFS) monthly banking sector MoM (+17.1 percent in 2014) while 2014). Hence, the government and grew by 21.3 percent in 2014. On update noted yesterday. the consumer segment posted a government institutions pushed the other hand, the Industry seg- The public sector deposits modest growth of 1.1 percent the overall loan book up for the ment only witnessed a 5.7 percent decreased by 6.8 percent MoM MoM (up 11.3 percent in 2014). month of December 2014. YoY increase in 2014. (down 0.9 percent in 2014) for Non-resident deposits grew by Private sector loans gained by THE PENINSULA

China stocks Qatar bourse suffer biggest one-day fall index down since 2008 SHANGHAI: China stocks suffered their biggest one-day percentage drop since the global financial crisis, dragged down 24.96 points by record tumbles for banks as authorities battled market speculation that fuelled a late 2014 spurt in share prices. Most Gulf equity markets pull back The two main indexes both fell 7.7 percent, their biggest losses DOHA: Qatar Exchange index sectors did well. Dubai Islamic since June 2008, and the plunge was down 24.96 points or 0.21 Bank’s (DIB) 2.2 percent gain wiped out around $315bn of mar- percent as it closed yesterday at was the main support. Two other ket value from the Shanghai stock 11,891.46 points down from the Dubai lenders, Emirates NBD and exchange, the country’s biggest. previous closing of 11,916.42. Mashreq, reported strong quar- The CSI300 index of the largest Among the top losers were terly results on Sunday and inves- listed companies in Shanghai and Commercial Bank of Qatar whose tors may be betting that DIB, Shenzhen ended at 3,355.16 points shares dropped 1.33 percent to whose board will review earnings and the Shanghai Composite QR66.60 and National Leasing on January 25, will follow suit. Traders work in front of the DAX board at the Frankfurt Stock Exchange yesterday. Index at 3,116.35. fell 0.05 percent to QR20.14 per Air Arabia jumped 2.4 percent The China market was one of share. Ooredoo lost 1.02 percent after announcing plans to launch the world’s best performers in to QR116.20 and Doha Bank a flight to Urumqi and become, 2014, thanks to surge of more than dropped 0.70 percent to QR56.60. it said, the first low-cost airline European marts rise; euro up 40 percent in the last quarter. That Gulf soft as oil slips; poor from the Middle East and Africa was led by brokerages, which tum- results weigh on Saudi to enter the Chinese market. LONDON: Europe’s main recovery for the eurozone isn’t striking record low levels yester- bled yesterday as authorities took Meanwhile, most Gulf equity Dubai-listed shares in Bahrain’s stock markets closed higher far off.” Stock indices had ral- day. The Spanish note dropped to steps to slash speculative trading. markets pulled back as oil prices Gulf Finance House (GFH) yesterday, the start of a pivotal lied on Friday on fresh signals 1.470 percent before rebounding China’s securities regulator pun- slipped again and negative fourth- dropped 3.4 percent and topped week for the region with the that the European Central Bank to close at 1.513 percent, and Italy ished industry heavyweights for quarter earnings weighed on trading volume on the emirate’s ECB forecast to announce fresh will launch a bond-buying stimu- closed at 1.664 percent after hit- illegal operations in their margin Saudi Arabia’s bourse. bourse after surging their daily stimulus measures and Greece lus programme this week, news ting a low of 1.619 percent. trading. Banks were hit after the Brent crude fell back below $50 15 percent limit in the previous holding a snap election. that has weighed heavily on the The euro recovered following its banking regulator issued draft rules a barrel on concern that the global session. GFH said on Monday that In London, the benchmark euro. The chronically low level 11-year low against the dollar on to tighten supervision of entrusted economic outlook was darkening it had no information to disclose FTSE 100 index climbed 0.54 of inflation across the single cur- Friday. At 1700 GMT Monday, the loans, a kind of shadow banking and after Iraq announced record that could explain the share price percent to end the day at 6,585.53 rency bloc has fuelled concern the European single currency bought product. He fall came a day before oil production. Saudi Arabia’s main movement. points compared with Friday’s region could slip into deflation — a $1.1630 compared with $1.1566 late China reports fourth-quarter and index slid 0.6 percent as petrochem- Property-related stocks such close. Frankfurt’s DAX 30 grew sustained and widespread drop in in New York on Friday. full-year economic growth data. It icals giant Saudi Basic Industries as Emaar Properties, which lost 0.73 percent to a record high close prices. Britain, which is not part “The main event this week is is expected to report an annual 7.2 fell 1.9 percent and Savola Group, 1.8 percent, came under pressure of 10.242,35 points, while the CAC of the eurozone, also risks falling the ECB’s policy meeting and percent pace, which would be the the kingdom’s biggest food maker, after consultancy JLL said in a 40 in Paris gained 0.35 percent to into deflation later this year. press conference on Thursday,” lowest in 24 years. dropped 2.3 percent. report on Sunday that Dubai’s 4,394.93 points. While falling prices may sound noted Neil MacKinnon, economist The banking sub-index plum- Savola reported a 23 percent markets for residential real estate “European stock markets are good for consumers, deflation can at financial group VTB Capital. meted by a record 10 percent, decline in fourth-quarter profit and hotel properties were peak- starting the new trading week on trigger a vicious spiral in which “The markets expect the ECB while the broader financial sub- on Sunday. It made SR434.4m ing as lower oil prices dampened a positive note seeing some early businesses and households delay to announce a QE programme index sank a record 9.6 percent. ($115.8m) in the period. Shares in sentiment. Abu Dhabi’s index follow-through buying after last purchases, throttling demand of anything up to 600bn euros All China CSI300 stock index Saudi Industrial Investment Group edged up 0.3 percent as blue Friday’s steep gains,” said Markus and causing companies to lay ($696bn) consisting of purchases futures were down at least 10 per- tumbled 3.6 percent after its fourth- chips Etisalat and Abu Dhabi Huber, senior analyst at broker off workers. Such concerns have of eurozone government bonds.” cent, except the September index quarter profit plunged 58 percent Commercial Bank added 0.5 and Peregrine & Black. fuelled speculation that the ECB Switzerland’s main stocks index which dove 11.7 percent. because of the fall in oil prices. 3.4 percent respectively. “Increasing optimism that the could launch a programme of sov- closed up 3.21 percent yesterday Plunges in mainland stocks Meanwhile, Almarai added 2.1 Egypt’s index added 0.7 per- ECB will finally announce QE ereign bond purchases known as after plunging 14 percent last impacted Hong Kong shares. The percent after reporting a 15 per- cent to 9,599 points as it rose (stimulus) during their monthly quantitative easing or QE when week following the central bank’s Hang Seng index fell 1.5 percent, cent rise in quarterly profit, in above major technical resistance meeting later this week is con- it holds its first policy meeting of shock decision to scrap its three- to 23,738.49 points, while the China line with analysts’ estimates. at 9,572-79 points, the peaks in tinuing to drive investors into the year on Thursday. year bid to hold down the value of Enterprises Index lost 5.0 percent, Dubai’s index slipped 0.2 per- November and December, with stocks. In addition a weak euro The expectation weighed on the franc. Wall Street was closed its biggest drop in more than three cent as property and construction which it had struggled in the last combined with low oil prices is borrowing costs, with 10-year yesterday due to a US national years, to 11,475.85 points. stocks fell while banks and other two sessions. QNA/REUTERS stirring hopes that a sustained Spanish and Italian bond rates holiday. AFP REUTERS Qatari company joins consortium to buy firm in Fujairah

DOHA: First Equity Partners (FEP), set to boost the demand for imports of Sharqi (Chairman Oryx Industries) and a Mena private equity firm, along- construction materials in coming years. Qais Al Maskati (Managing Director and side a group of strategic partners has Qais Al Maskati, Managing Director CEO of FEP) expressed optimism regard- announced the acquisition of Oryx and CEO of FEP, referred to the acquisi- ing the acquisition, given the lucrative Industries, a leading Fujairah-based tion as “a timely investment with strong market potential which is supported by the producer of building materials. FEP up-side potential”. He continued to dis- increasing demand for building materials and the strategic partners have col- cuss his future optimism regarding the in the construction sector. lectively committed a grand total of new agreement saying “FEP is proud Osman Ibrahim – Group President AED500m to the venture as of end of to play an integral role in the future of and CEO of Rawabi Holding, expressed December 2014. The initial acquisition Oryx Industries - a uniquely positioned his enthusiasm regarding the acquisition of a 50 percent stake will be followed by organisation that is set to benefit from saying “We are excited to be part of this a full acquisition by the end of the first the increasing demand for basic build- consortium and look forward to working quarter of 2015. ing materials in the construction sector. with FEP and the other strategic partners The consortium of investors who have FEP is able to identify first-rate oppor- to realise the full potential of this opportu- joined forces with FEP to execute this tunities and Oryx Industries is no excep- nity” he added “The Gulf region witnessed acquisition include State Holding (Qatar), tion. As a regional industry leader in the unprecedented levels of growth supported Sheikh Abdulla Al Sharqi (Chairman of areas of aggregate production, trading by the high level of government spending Oryx Industries), Rawabi Holding (KSA) and bulk transport and logistic services; which had a positive impact on construc- and Al Waab Real Estate (Kuwait). Oryx Industries is expected to play a vital tion related sectors and the companies The acquisition supports the ambi- role in many of the large-scale GCC real operating in this field.” tious expansion plan of the construction estate and infrastructure projects in the First Equity Partners is a private materials producer, which has delivered coming years.” equity manager, specializes in turna- robust growth in the recent past. It also Oryx Industries is a regional industry round situations to convert distressed capitalizes on the GCC construction leader in the production of aggregates and and underperforming ventures into high boom, driven by significant investment in ready-mix. It holds a 50 percent share of performance businesses that generate large-scale real estate and infrastructure the ready mix concrete market in Fujairah attractive investor returns over a com- projects, such as the Dubai World Expo and a 20 percent share of Fujairah’s aggre- petitive timeframe. Officials at the press conference. 2020 and Qatar World Cup 2022. This is gate export market. Sheikh Abdulla Al THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 BUSINESS www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 19 Germany Over 212 million continues to to be jobless in repatriate gold: Buba four years: ILO FRANKFURT: The German central bank or Bundesbank said yesterday that it stepped up the repatriation of its gold Inequality growing, warns UN body reserves from overseas storage last year. GENEVA: Unemployment will with the youth unemployment rate “The Bundesbank successfully rise by 11 million in the next five touching 13 percent in 2014, almost continued and further stepped up years due to slower growth and three times the rate for adults. its transfers of gold,” the central turbulence, the UN warned yes- The UN agency said the steep fall bank said in a statement. “In 2014, terday . in oil and gas prices would hit the 120 tonnes of gold were transferred More than 212 million people labour market hard in producing to Frankfurt from storage loca- will be jobless by 2019 against countries in Latin America, Africa tions abroad: 35 tonnes from Paris the current level of 201 mil- and the Arab world. But one of the and 85 tonnes from New York.” lion, the International Labour rare bits of good news was that the Germany’s gold reserves are the Organisation said. “The global middle class comprised more than second-biggest in the world after economy is continuing to grow 34 percent of total employment in those of the United States and at tepid rates and that has clear developing countries from 20 per- totalled 3,384.2 tonnes this month, consequences,” ILO head Guy cent in the 1990s, Ryder said. Visitors walk near solar-powered vehicles on display at the World Future Energy Summit 2014 in Abu Dhabi. according to the latest data com- Ryder told reporters here. However extreme poverty piled by the World Gold Council. “The global jobs gap due to the continues to affect one out of 10 For decades the Bundesbank’s crisis stands at 61 million jobs workers globally who earn less gold holdings have been kept in the worldwide,” he said, referring to than $1.50 a day, he added. A wid- Falling oil prices not to impact treasuries of other central banks the number of jobs lost since the ening chasm between the haves — in Paris, London and New York. start of the financial crisis in 2008. and have nots and an uncertain According to the German central The ILO World Employment and investment climate have made it bank’s own data, 1,447 tonnes are Social Outlook — Trends 2015 report difficult for countries to rebound clean energy: UAE minister stored at the Federal Reserve said an extra 280 million jobs would from the crisis, the report said. Bank in New York, 438 tonnes at have to be created by 2019 to close Cutting wages has been a key ABU DHABI: The United had voiced concerns that the oil prices to cut fuel subsidies that, the Bank of England in London the gap created by the financial tur- element in the international bail- Arab Emirates yesterday down- trend could spell doom for plans according to him, cost the world and 307 tonnes at the Banque de moil. “This means the jobs crisis is outs of eurozone members. But played fears that the fall in oil to shift to clean energy. $550bn in 2013. Renewable energy, France in Paris. far from over and there is no place there are concerns that excep- prices could negatively impact Speaking at the World Future which relies on solar, wind and Under the Bundesbank’s new for complacency,” Ryder said. tionally low price rises in the 18 the development of renewable Energy Summit opening cer- other sources, is essential for meet- gold storage plan in 2013, it The job scenario improved in countries sharing the euro could energy projects. emony in Abu Dhabi, Jaber said ing global CO2 emission targets. decided to bring back 674 tonnes the United States, Japan and augur a long period of slow growth “Our interconnected energy that globally, investments in clean The energy summit that opened from abroad by 2020 and store Britain but remains worrisome and falling prosperity. landscape has evolved beyond the energy have increased by 16 per- yesterday is part of a series of half of its gold in its own vaults. in several developed economies “If low wages lead people to point where the price of oil deter- cent during the past 12 months events organised under the banner “Implementation of our new of Europe, the report said. consume less, and investment mines the fate of clean energy,” amounting to $310bn. of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, gold storage plan is proceeding “The austerity trajectory... in remains subdued, this obviously said Minister of State Sultan Al Meanwhile, production capac- including also an International smoothly. Operations are running Europe in particular has contrib- has a negative impact on growth,” Jaber who is also chairman of ity of wind turbines and solar Water Summit. very much according to schedule,” uted dramatically to increases in Ryder said. “Income inequality in Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy panels increased by 26 In March last year, Abu Dhabi said Bundesbank executive board unemployment,” Ryder said. The some advanced economies now energy company. percent during the same period, opened the world’s largest oper- member Carl-Ludwig Thiele. report said eurozone powerhouse approach levels observed among Oil prices have fallen by almost producing 100,000 megawatts. ating plant of concentrated solar “We also called on the exper- Germany could see unemploy- emerging economies,” he said. 60 percent since June, crashing Renewable energy has shifted power, which has the capacity to tise of the Bank for International ment rise to five percent in 2017 The ILO said the income gap on worries over global oversupply “from an expensive alternative to a provide electricity to 20,000 homes. Settlements for the spot checks against 4.7 percent at present, was set to widen, with the rich- and weak demand in a faltering competitive technology,” said Jaber. On Sunday, the Abu Dhabi that had to be carried out. There while it was expected to fall just est 10 percent earning 30 to 40 world economy. “This growth has been driven by Fund for Development said it were no irregularities,” Thiele under the double-digit in number percent of total income, and Participants at the Inter- the sharp decline in cost and steady will provide $57m worth of con- said. Since the transfers began two eurozone economy France. the poorest 10 percent earning national Renewable Energy rise in technology efficiency.” cessional loans for clean energy in 2013, the Bundesbank said it The worst-hit segment globally between two and seven percent Agency (IRENA) conference in The Emirati official called for projects in five developing coun- has relocated a total of 157 tonnes were those aged between 15 and 24, of total income. AFP oil-rich Abu Dhabi on Saturday seizing the opportunity of falling tries, including Iran. AFP of gold to Frankfurt. AFP

Franc’s surge casts shadow on watch fair GENEVA: Geneva’s luxury watch show where shop owners search out such brands as Cartier and Piaget opened yesterday under a cloud as the franc surged after the Swiss central bank abandoned its bid to hold down its value. The fair in Geneva, attracting only professionals, aims to draw 14,000 visitors in just four days from the world over. On opening day, participants at the annual Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie were putting up a brave front, saying consumers would be willing to pay higher prices for true luxury and perfection. The luxury watch sector is now facing one of its most challenging periods, after the end of surging sales in Asia and new found competition from smartwatches connected to the Internet and capable of a plethora of functions. Sixteen of the world’s most expensive watch brands, of which three-quarters are produced by Swiss group Richemont, are on display at the show, a red carpet event drawing the biggest names in the industry and top celebrities. Since Thursday, the franc has shot up 20 percent against both the euro and the dollar, punishing leading Swiss watchmakers whose shares plummeted before rising again yesterday. They include Richemont’s top end brands such as Cartier, Piaget and Mont Blanc. Mont Blanc is entering the smartwatch fray led so far by the likes of Samsung and Google with a new offering priced at 2,690 euros ($3,126). An e-strap A Montblanc employee displays the new connected connected to a traditional watch turns it into a sporty wristwatch Timewalker Urban Speed with its “e-Strap” looking smartwatch with email and music controls. It in Geneva yesterday. lasts five days on a single charge. AFP

Egypt to issue $1.5bn Eurobond

LONDON: Egypt plans to issue to the international capital mar- create liquidity and our external a $1.5bn Eurobond in April and kets after a gap of four years now,” debt indicators are very low so we hopes to return regularly to Salem said during an investment have room to add to our exter- international capital markets conference in London. nal debt,” Salem said. Cairo will in years to come as it tries to The Arab world’s most popu- inform investors of its medium- rebuild the country’s battered lous country has been trying to term borrowing plans before the finances, a finance ministry repair an economy battered by issue, she said. official said yesterday. political upheaval, street protests Egypt has mostly relied on the The dollar-denominated issue and militant violence since 2011, local money market to finance its is likely to be split, said Hanan when a popular uprising toppled deficit since being frozen out of Salem, first deputy minister for autocrat Hosni Mubarak. The international markets, but Hanan economic and financial policies at turmoil has shut Cairo out of said feedback from investors was Egypt’s Ministry of Finance. international debt markets. encouraging. “We are looking to probably Egypt was looking to issue more “There is a really strong appe- divide this into two tranches ... Our Eurobonds over the years to come, tite for Egypt,” Salem said, adding intention is to create a yield curve, and was also exploring Sukuk issu- she expects the country’s credit so we might have one tranche that ance, though that would require rating to be upgraded soon. “We is ten years, and another tranche regulatory change, Salem said. should at least be a full rating that is different, that is on the “It is always good to have a notch above where we are cur- longer end,” Salem said. continual presence in the inter- rently rated,” she said. “This will be Egypt’s re-entry national market and it’s good to REUTERS TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 20 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com BUSINESS Oil fall: Gulf states face balancing act GCC faces first current account deficit since 1998; states will avoid mass sell-off of assets, say bankers

DUBAI: Plunging oil prices the International Monetary Fund. But even before oil began tum- Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of economy by tightening liquidity in smaller deficits with oil at $50, could prompt Gulf Arab sover- Most of that is invested overseas. bling, there was a trend for some Finance and the Saudi Arabian the banking system. and less pressure to sell assets. eign wealth funds to pull tens of But the growth is set to falter sovereign funds to bring more Monetary Agency did not imme- So much, or all, of the burden As they plot strategies for 2015, billions of dollars out of global as oil’s 60 percent tumble over the money home to support domestic diately respond to requests for of covering the deficit is likely to sovereign funds are expected to markets this year, with much of past seven months slashes govern- economic growth, said Michael comment. fall on the central bank’s foreign react differently to the new envi- the money expected to come out ments’ energy export revenues — Maduell, president of the US-based assets. This is what happened ronment. A few may become more of US dollar debt and deposits “petrodollars” — the main source Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute, DEFICITS when Riyadh last posted a big conservative in investment deci- with banks abroad. of new money for the funds. which tracks the industry. That Saudi Arabia may withdraw the budget deficit, a $12bn shortfall in sions, Maduell said, citing the But — in a crucial balancing act Capital Economics estimates if trend could strengthen, he said. most from global markets. The 2009 due to a collapse in oil prices. Kuwait Investment Authority as for funds tasked with diversifying Brent crude averages $60 a barrel Diego Lopez, an Abu Dhabi- central bank had the equivalent In that year, the central bank’s a possible example. their economies away from hydro- this year, the GCC will run a cur- based director at the sovereign of $732bn of net foreign assets in investments abroad dropped 7 But bankers noted even as oil’s carbons — many are expected to rent account deficit of $60bn, its wealth fund unit of consultants November, including $545bn of percent and its deposits abroad decline pressured governments’ remain active in making long- first deficit since 1998. That could PwC, said funds were looking to securities and $131bn of deposits fell 12 percent, before resuming finances, it was making it more term investments such as infra- halt net flows of fresh petrodollars invest in assets such as infra- with banks abroad. The vast major- their growth in 2010 after prices urgent for them to develop finan- structure and real estate, with into the funds entirely. structure and real estate, but as ity is believed to be in US dollars, recovered. cial bases that were not so vulner- an increasing focus on develop- In fact, flows could reverse. opportunities dried up in devel- especially US Treasury bonds. Elsewhere in the Gulf, Oman able to oil swings - so the funds’ ing nations as opposed to sluggish Governments will probably liq- oped countries, were increasingly The government has projected and Bahrain may face heavy activities were vital. European economies. uidate some of their fund assets seeking investments in emerging a record budget deficit of $38.7bn pressure to liquidate fund assets A senior Doha banker said For over a decade, the funds of to cover budget deficits as their economies. for 2015. Analysts believe that because they have the weakest the funds had grown so much the six-nation Gulf Cooperation revenues fall; if Brent stays at The Qatar Investment estimate assumed an average oil budget positions; Oman has pro- in recent years that they were Council (GCC) have been big play- its current level around $50, all Authority, for example, recently price of around $60, so if Brent jected a $6.5bn deficit for 2015 at becoming less reliant on receiv- ers in the securities markets of the GCC governments are likely to announced a big push into Asia, stays around $50, Riyadh could an average oil price of $75. But ing huge quantities of new petro- developed world, buyers of stakes run deficits. aiming to invest $15bn-$20bn over face a deficit in the order of their funds are tiny by interna- dollars every year. “There is still in high-profile companies such as The projected deficits are small five years to diversify away from $50bn-$60bn. tional standards: $19bn for Oman enough liquidity to ensure that Total and Volkswagen, and inves- compared with the size of the its Europe-focused portfolio. The It could cover that by borrow- and $11bn for Bahrain, according deals happen, even ones in the tors in European real estate. funds, so in contrast to crisis- Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, ing or running down some domes- to the IMF. $3bn to $4bn bracket,” he said. They have grown rapidly; hit oil exporters such as Russia, Qatar Investment Authority and tic assets — it has the equivalent The United Arab Emirates, “If you have a $500bn to $600bn including the foreign assets of Gulf states will avoid any mass Oman’s State General Reserve of $96bn deposited with Saudi Qatar and Kuwait are believed to fund, even just deploying the Saudi Arabia’s central bank, the sell-off of assets, say bankers and Fund all declined to comment. commercial banks. But Saudi need much lower oil prices than income from returns gives you GCC’s sovereign funds now total analysts familiar with the funds’ Bahrain’s Mumtalakat, the policy makers tend to avoid debt, Saudi Arabia to break even on maybe $20bn a year to spend.” about $2.43 trillion, according to operations. Kuwait Investment Authority, and they will not want to hurt the their budgets, so they would face REUTERS

Oil woes in Angola Russian economy to shrink: EBRD LONDON: Russia’s battered had their access to capital mar- economy will shrink by a far kets cut by sanctions. worse-than-expected 4.8 per- The EBRD added that Ukraine’s cent this year, as plunging oil shattered economy is predicted to prices add to fallout from the shrink 5.0 percent this year, down Ukraine crisis, the EBRD devel- from September’s forecast for a opment bank forecast yesterday. contraction of 3.0 percent. That The London-based European followed a 7.5-percent collapse in Bank for Reconstruction and Gross Domestic Product in 2014. Development (EBRD) sharply “The Ukrainian economy remains revised its September prediction in a particularly precarious state,” for a 0.2-percent contraction for the London-based institution said. the economy of the key oil pro- “In addition to the impact of the ducer in 2015. conflict in the east of the coun- “A sharp fall in the price of oil try, there is currently uncertainty has piled pressure on an already about the volume and timing of fragile Russia, and is hitting international financial assistance.” growth in energy exporters and The EBRD, founded in 1991 to other emerging nations with close help ex-Soviet bloc countries such links to eastern Europe’s largest as Russia and Ukraine make the economy,” the EBRD said in its transition to free-market econo- economic outlook. mies and democracy, added how- Oil prices have slumped by ever that some nations would win almost 60 percent since June, hit a boost from the tumbling cost hard by global oversupply, the of crude. strong dollar and weak crude The bank’s investment zone— demand arising from the stut- comprising mainly former com- An offshore oil rig on Block 3 off the coast of Angola. The second oil producer in Africa is to suffer the crashing of crude prices due to global over- tering world economy. Russia’s munist nations across central and supply. The country’s budget will be reviewed as austerity measures have been announced, which could fuel social discontent. economy is also buckling under the eastern Europe but which now weight of Western sanctions over includes also Turkey and emerg- the Kremlin’s actions in Ukraine— ing economies in north Africa and which remains plagued by unrest— the Middle East — was expected to and tit-for-tat sanctions imposted contract by an overall 0.3 percent in IMF chief warns on the West in response. 2015. That was a major downgrade Centrica cuts gas prices by 5pc Russia has strongly denied from the prior forecast for 1.7-per- sending weapons and troops cent expansion in the operating Greece on debts into the war zone despite wit- region that comprises more than LONDON: Britain’s largest encourage energy firms to pass on driven by anything in the politics,” ness claims to the contrary. At 30 countries. “Even this forecast is energy supplier British Gas, falls in wholesale prices to cus- British Gas Finance Director DUBLIN: International Mone- the same time, Russia’s economy subject to considerable risks,” cau- owned by utility Centrica, will tomers,” Cameron said in a post Michael Uzielli said on a confer- tary Fund chief Christine has been plagued by the tumbling tioned Hans Peter Lankes, EBRD’s cut household gas prices by on social media network Twitter. ence call with reporters. Lagarde yesterday warned of value of its ruble currency, sepa- acting chief economist. 5 percent from February 27, Wholesale crude and gas prices Rival provider E.ON announced “consequences” if European rate data showed Monday. Those risks included the impact becoming the second provider in Europe have taken a tumble a 3.5 percent cut to its gas tariffs countries try to renegotiate their Net capital outflows from of any further large falls in the oil to pass on a fall in wholesale in recent months on the back last week and Centrica’s news debts, ahead of Greek elections Russia more than doubled in price, a further escalation in the prices and put pressure on of a global supply glut, reduc- increases the pressure on rivals which an anti-austerity party is 2014 to $151.5bn, prompted by the Ukraine/Russia crisis, and any rivals to follow suit. ing some of the energy purchase to reduce their prices. The other favoured to win. Ukraine crisis and the plunging potential increase in uncertainty in The cut announced yesterday costs utilities incur. Finance min- major suppliers in Britain are “Collective endeavours are value of the rouble, according to the eurozone, according to Lankes. will result in an average energy ister George Osborne this month EDF Energy, SSE, ScottishPower welcome but at the same time a statistics from the central bank. Plunging oil prices were however bill reduction of £37 a year for urged energy companies to pass and RWE power. “It is likely that debt is a debt and it is a contract,” Russia in 2013 had already seen expected to boost countries in British Gas customers, further on those savings to customers, some or all of the remaining Big Lagarde told the Irish Times dur- its high level of capital flight, a central and southeastern Europe playing into the hands of Prime saying that action could be taken Six suppliers will look to offer ing a visit to Dublin. recurring problem for the coun- and in the south and eastern Minister David Cameron ahead of if they failed to do so. some price cuts of their own,” “Defaulting, restructuring, try, reach $61bn. The outflow Mediterranean region, offsetting Britain’s national election in May. “We’ve been watching this said Whitman Howard utilities changing the terms has conse- was accelerated by the payment weak demand arising from euro- “It’s welcome to see British Gas (price fall) for many weeks and analyst Angelos Anastasiou. quences on the signature and of debts owed abroad by Russian zone uncertainty, the bank added. cutting prices. We’ll continue to months and it really hasn’t been REUTERS the confidence in the signa- banks and companies, which have AFP ture,” she said. Alexis Tsipras, the head of the anti-austerity Syriza coalition, has called for renegotiation of conditions on Greek bailout loans set by its main creditors — the IMF and the European Union — Japan firms doing more firing than hiring: Report and a partial cancellation of its enormous public debt. TOKYO: More than half of Japanese “A significant fraction of Japanese observed in other developed countries. workforce,” said Swaim. “It means some Yannis Dragasakis, a Syriza who are laid off will still be out of work workers are laid off each year and then “The costs borne by displaced workers mobility between jobs, not meaning becom- lawmaker and deputy speaker of a year later, an international report said face long periods of joblessness before are likely to remain high in many cases... if ing permanently poor as a worker,” Swaim parliament, reacted to Lagarde’s yesterday, adding firms must be more finding work, often at much lower wages,” the employment opportunities available to said. comments. “It is necessary to flexible if Japan’s economy is to improve. the OECD said. mid-career job changers remain limited,” Deregulating the jobs market is a key adjust the debt because it is not The findings come as Japanese Prime On average between 2002 and 2013 only the report said. plank of Abe’s plan to turn around the currently sustainable. The Greek Minister Shinzo Abe embarks on his third 48 percent of those who are retrenched world’s third largest economy, with rigid economy has suffered a disaster year in power, after pledging to awaken the found a new job within 12 months, the LITTLE FLEXIBILITY rules on hiring and firing sometimes blamed and its capabilities are currently country’s long-slumbering economy, in part report said, adding those who do find The slow death of the culture of life- for the national flat-footed responses to limited,” he said. by cutting red tape. employment suffer an average 20 percent time employment and a greater depend- changing global markets. “Our proposal does not solely Around 1.4 percent of workers lose cut to their income. ence on part-time or casual employment Supporters say a more flexible workforce concern Greek debt, but the prob- their jobs each year, with older, less edu- The trend persists for the next three means Japan’s workers, not the firms that would better allow families to look after lem of excessive debt facing many cated employees and those on temporary years, and “even four years after the employ them, bear almost all the costs of children and the growing ranks of elderly, European countries,” he said. contracts at highest risk of remaining displacement, their earnings are about the little flexibility the job market has. as well as permitting firms to adapt more Irish Finance Minister Michael jobless, the Organisation for Economic 15 percent lower than they were,” said “In Europe there is a word called quickly. But critics say reforms run the risk Noonan favours a European debt Co-operation and Development (OECD) lead writer and OECD senior economist flexicurity, which means reconciling of taking away job security. conference, the Irish Times said. said in a report on Japan’s labour market. Paul Swaim, noting the same pattern is flexibility with security for the entire AFP AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 MARKET www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 21

QE Indices Summary QE Index 11,891.46 0.21 % WORLD STOCK INDICES GOLD & SILVER EXCHANGE QE Total Return Index 17,736.01 0.21 % QE Al Rayan Islamic Index 4,011.52 0.01 % RATE QE All Share Index 3,049.62 0.26 % INDEX Day’s Close Pt Chg % Chg Year High Year Low QE All Share Banks & Financial 3,154.14 0.62 % GOLD Buying Selling Services All Ordinaries 5288.997 10.222 0.19 5447.6 5248.5 QE All Share Industrials 3,730.87 0.31 % QR149.8730 US$ ...... QR 3.6305 QR 3.6500 QE All Share Transportation 2,316.49 0.21 % Cac 40 Index/D 4386.75 7.13 0.16 4387.22 4076.16 QE All Share Real Estate 2,245.38 1.16 % SILVER UK ...... QR 5.4868 QR 5.5634 QE All Share Insurance 3,695.72 1.06 % Dj Indu Average 17511.57 190.86 1.1 18103.4 15340.69 QR 2.0762 Euro ...... QR 4.1959 QR 4.2550 QE All Share Telecoms 1,380.37 0.74 % CA$ ...... QR 3.0131 QR 3.0723 QE All Share Consumer Goods & 6,939.82 0.35 % Hang Seng Inde/D 23738.49 -365.03 -1.51 24369 23312.5 Services Swiss Fr ...... QR 3.1643 QR 3.2232 QE Market Summary Comparison Iseq Overall/D 5292.07 7.97 0.15 5284.1 5072.7 Yen ...... QR 0.0308 QR 0.0314 Aus$ ...... QR 2.9602 QR 3.0194 Today Previous day Karachi 100 In/D 34014.26 227.82 0.67 33954.88 32134.82 CRUDE OIL 19-01-2015 18-01-2015 Ind Re ...... QR 0.0585 QR 0.0596 Index 11,891.46 11,916.42 Nikkei 225 Index 17014.29 150.13 0.89 17540.92 16592.57 Pak Re ...... QR 0.0358 QR 0.0366 Change 24.96 53.91 BRENT Peso ...... QR 0.0810 QR 0.0826 S&P 500 Index/D 2019.42 26.75 1.34 2093.55 1737.92 % 0.21 0.45 $ 49.75 SL Re ...... QR 0.0273 QR 0.0279 YTD% 3.21 3.01 Straits Times/D 3307.7 7.02 0.21 3375.13 3267.89 Taka ...... QR 0.0463 QR 0.0473 Volume 13,178,641 6,572,595 DUBAI Nep Re ...... QR 0.0367 QR 0.0375 Value (QAR) 626,326,197.26 312,295,997.30 Straits Times/D 3290.99 -1.82 -0.06 3387.84 2953.01 SA Rand ...... QR 0.3104 QR 0.3166 Trades 6,209 4,519 $ 44.65 Up 17 | Down 22 | Unchanged 02 Straits Times/D 3274.06 -8.82 -0.27 3291.83 2953.01

QATAR EXCHANGE | DAILY TRADING REPORT | 19-01-2015

INTERNATIONAL MARKETS A List of Shares from the world

COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume COMPANY CLOSE NET VOLUME Volume NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED NAME CHG TRADED A C C-A/D 1533.65 15.55 25584 Chowgule St-T/D 28.3 -1.25 50615 Him.Fut.Comm-T/D 19.3 -0.05 3511710 Kanoria Chem-B/D 38.25 -0.35 5598 Patspin India-/D 8.5 0.01 3238 Imperial Tobac/D 2932 40 638639 Aarti Drugs-B/D 1054.95 8.9 3203 Cimmco-B/D 74.2 0.35 3999 Himat Seide-B/D 88.7 -0.2 26148 Kg Denim-B/D 23.8 1.25 321876 Radico Khait-B/D 93.55 8.8 436844 Kingfisher/D 324.3 6.3 2393453 Aban Offs-A/D 477.55 3 254548 Cipla-A/D 657.4 10.4 304150 Hind Motors-T/D 7.99 0.03 38545 Kilburnengg-T/D 47.65 3.9 100574 Rallis India-A/D 224.05 5.3 24623 Land Secs Grou/D 1228 -6 505902 Aegis Logis-B/D 428.85 -1.4 7983 City Union Bk-/D 94.1 -0.7 37785 Hind Org Chem-/D 22.55 0.8 111246 Kopran-B/D 57.4 0.35 84390 Rallis India-A/D 224.05 5.3 24623 Legal & Genera/D 251.7 1.3 1882890 Ahmed.Forg-B/D 341.6 1.7 108929 Colgate-A/D 1944.05 -16.55 16804 Hind Unilever-/D 892.8 -49.65 779763 Lakshmi Elec-B/D 443 -2.75 5565 Reliance Indus/D 470.9 2.95 64185 Lloyds Bnk Grp/D 74.35 -0.09 40851505 Alembic-B/D 47.7 2.4 671746 Container Cor-/D 1381.2 4.75 12882 Hind.Petrol-A/D 559.8 -12.35 130336 Lakshmi Mach-A/D4048.75 107.75 3931 Ruchi Soya-B/D 35.75 -0.2 39166 Marks & Sp./D 457.116 3 1173638 Alok Indus-A/D 10.45 -0.2 1351472 Dai-Tichi Kar-/D 182.5 -0.9 9201 Hindalco-A/D 140.2 1.75 851154 Lgb Broth-B/D 655.9 18.75 2983 S Bk Bikaner-B/D 679.15 9.65 13426 Next/D 6886.6394 35 66053 Apollo Tyre-A/D 228.85 3 219709 Dcm Financia-B/D 1.12 -0.08 4904 Hous Dev Fin-A/D 1181.45 -11.8 121836 Lloyd Metal-B/D 9.71 -0.38 4953 Saur.Cem-B/D 42.15 0.05 116854 Pearson/D 1218 -3 597785 Asahi I Glass-/D 132.95 -1.25 23151 Dcm Shram Ind-/D 105.35 0.35 4447 I F C I-A/D 37.45 -0.1 368780 Lok.Hous&Con-T/D 13.02 -0.36 24232 Thirumalai-B/D 95.3 -0.45 3722 Prudential/D 1490.5 -9 999628 Ashok Leyland-/D 60.5 0.1 1544301 Dhampur Sugar-/D 43.45 -0.4 29295 Idbi-A/D 75.15 -0.25 308238 Lupin-A/D 1462.7 33.7 24685 Til Ltd.-T/D 541.55 12.15 37260 Rentokil Initi/D 123.6 0.4 649446 Bajaj Hold-A/D 1411.5 -22.9 6368 Dr. Reddy-A/D 3310 29.55 13719 Ifb Agro-B/D 390 10.15 5488 Lyka Labs-T/D 36.95 3.35 222422 Timexgroup-T/D 13.7 -0.07 41777 Rolls Royce Pl/D 869 8 2150983 Ballarpur In-B/D 16.1 0.15 255234 E I H-B/D 112.9 -2.3 18172 Ifb Ind.Ltd.-B/D 493.95 25.4 17761 Mah.Seamless-B/D 225.5 3.3 8978 Tinplate-B/D 64.1 1.6 38057 Rsa Insrance G/D 446.2 -1.6 474096 Bata India-A/D 1438.95 2.95 152300 E.I.D Parry-A/D 189.65 0.2 7169 India Cement-A/D 99.8 -2.35 340510 Mangalam Cem-B/D 340.9 3.3 28395 Ub Engineer-Z/D 7.55 0.3 5784 Sainsbury(J)/D 261.14 4.4 2923493 Bayer Crop-A/D 3712 48 2841 Electrosteel-B/D 18.15 -0.15 81865 India Glycol-B/D 102.6 0.15 24976 Maral Overs-B/D 22.95 -0.2 9271 Ucal Fuel-B/D 156.05 -2.05 59662 Schroders/D 2641 8 64293 Beml Ltd-A/D 925.25 7.4 212027 Emco-B/D 39.1 0.65 114440 Indian Hotel-A/D 116.3 0.8 73462 Mastek-B/D 406.95 0.9 61970 Ucal Fuel-B/D 156.05 -2.05 59662 Severn Trent/D 2119 -8 96280 Bh Electronic-/D 3252.25 -44.75 19510 Escorts Fin-B/D 7.53 0.35 23034 Indo-Tcount-T/D 351.6 -0.25 13191 Max India L-A/D 404 -2.25 74925 Ultramarine-B/D 70.1 0.45 13578 Smith&Nephew/D 1183.4664 7 643253 Bharat Bijle-B/D 707.25 12.6 7406 Escorts-A/D 132.35 2.1 307854 Indusind-A/D 830.2 -1.4 55809 Mrpl-A/D 47.65 0.55 53529 Unitech P -A/D 16.9 -0.1 9378533 Smiths Group/D 1082.2 -5 173779 Bharatgears-B/D 80.35 6.75 86360 Essar Oil-T/D 108.35 2.35 323286 J.B.Chemical-B/D 196.05 -3.55 26722 Nahar Spg.-B/D 94.1 0.85 15020 Standrd Chart /D 912.2 11.6 1559302 Bhartiya Int-B/D 408 -2.85 10392 Eveready Indu-/D 190.45 3.15 81820 Jagson Phar-B/D 36.55 0.5 30305 Nation Alum -A/D 47.1 0 176621 LONDON Tate & Lyle/D 649 -2 340181 Bhel-A/D 281.1 7.05 416118 F D C-B/D 157 1.6 14486 Jbf Indu-B/D 243.35 1.3 36551 Navneet Edu-B/D 112.25 -1.55 7953 Tesco/D 223.5 4.45 16182831 Bom.Burmah-B/D 483.6 20.05 156249 Federal Bank-A/D 146.6 2.15 214970 Jct Elect P -B/D 0.66 -0.01 33103 Nepc India-T/D 2.92 -0.02 12007 3I Group/D 434 -2.3 310462 Unilever/D 2729 -18 1324777 Bombay Dyeing-/D 66.55 0.6 265483 Ferro Alloys-B/D 6.35 0.04 26399 Jct Ltd-B/D 3.5 0.09 179640 Neuland Lab-B/D 508.9 -5.65 4811 Assoc.Br.Foods/D 3105 12 126418 United Util Gr/D 954 -10.5 244434 Camph.& All-B/D 262 -2.4 3795 Finolex-A/D 301.15 13.4 78739 Jenson&Nich.-B/D 6.62 0.2 154442 Nrb Bearings-B/D 136.2 0.4 7010 Barclays/D 227.55 3.2 31807893 Vodafone Group/D 231.05 3.25 18772520 Canfin Homes-B/D 633.4 2.5 35777 Gail-A/D 440.4 15.85 205608 Jktyre&Ind-B/D 126.95 0.9 188945 O N G C-A/D 347.7 1.45 205440 Bg Group/D 851 -1.5 3259219 Whitbread/D 4748 -21 73342 Caprihans-B/D 87.35 0.85 3843 Galada Power-T/D 15.98 0.76 21875 Jmc Projects-T/D 180.95 0.55 8324 Ocl India-B/D 507.15 15.8 4788 Bp/D 409.7 -3.65 12630434 Cast.Bo/D 506.5 -0.1 45604 Gammon India-T/D 24.6 0.2 66385 Kabra Extr-B/D 95 -0.5 9779 Oil Country-B/D 34.65 -1.05 5650 Brit Am Tobacc/D 3587.5 3.5 461144 Century Enka-B/D 175.5 -0.65 5745 Garden P -B/D 30.9 -0.6 8474 Kajaria Cer-A/D 671.85 16.85 33461 Orchid Chem-B/D 66.55 3.3 303433 Bt Group/D 412.75 3.7 5601452 Century Text-A/D 562.25 -9.3 97060 Goodricke-B/D 152.4 0.1 7280 Kakatiya Cem-B/D 119.1 -0.15 2803 Orient.Carb.-T/D 465.4 47.55 60581 Centrica/D 264.2 -0.7 3233962 Chambal Fert-B/D 61.5 1.95 94242 Goodyear I -B/D 622.95 -1.6 8478 Kalpat Power-B/D 233.35 -2.9 26457 Orient.Carb.-T/D 465.4 47.55 60581 Gkn/D 361.3 5.4 1251538 Chola Invest-B/D 516.7 1.95 18367 Hcl Infosys-B/D 51.55 0.95 353681 Kalyani Stel-T/D 160.3 0.9 29628 Oudh Sugar-B/D 20 0.05 3450 Hsbc Holdings/D 596.4 2.4 3902726 TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 22 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT NBA: Spurs Quartet targets greatness, outsmart Jazz 89-69

NEW YORK: Tiago Splitter became the 12th different player to lead the Spurs in scoring this Wiggins his tour de force season, recording a game-high 14 points in a comfortable 89-69 victory over the Utah Jazz. Nibali, Froome, Contador and Quintana gear up for 2015 season The Spurs (26-16) have won eight straight games against Utah (14-27) in San Antonio since a last PARIS: A mouth-watering string of doping cases last season. home loss to the Jazz in January four-way tussle for the Tour Having abandoned hope of 2010. de France title and Bradley securing a second Tour title after Guard Danny Green scored 13 Wiggins’s challenges on the his 2012 triumph, Wiggins, who points for the Spurs, all in the Paris-Roubaix and the hour reverts to track cycling midway Tour de fourth quarter, when he made record promise to make 2015 a through the season with an eye France three three-point baskets. vintage year for cycling. on the 2016 Olympics, is tak- Reserve center Rudy Gobert 2013 winner Defending champion Vincenzo ing aim at the Paris-Roubaix in led Utah with 13 points, a career- Britain’s Nibali, 2013 winner Chris April – tackling the cobblestones best 18 rebounds and four blocks. Froome, double champion Alberto prior to the wooden boards of the Christopher Forward Gordon Hayward scored Contador and the indefatigable velodrome. Froome 10. Nairo Quintana are expected to Victory in the Queen of the smiles on Spurs guard Patty Mills, who fight it out for the yellow jersey Classics, added to his road and the podium missed the first 31 games of the on a Tour tailor-made for pure track Olympic gold medals and in Paris, in season after undergoing shoulder climbers. his Tour de France crown, would this July surgery, has found his form of late Spaniard Contador is planning make the Briton one of most ver- 2013 file and added two three-pointers off to take the toughest road to Paris satile riders of all time, especially photo. the bench. AGENCIES as he will also compete in the Giro if he goes on to break the hour Froome will d’Italia, looking to become the record. be hoping first rider since the late Marco The revamped hour record to repeat his NBA Results Orlando 99 Oklahoma City 127 Pantani in 1998 to achieve that is currently held by Austrian show this particular double. Mathias Brandle but it is not season. San Antonio 89 Utah 69 “He knows how to get ready expected to withstand the chal- Toronto 93 New Orleans 95 for them and if anyone can back lenges of Australians Rohan up the Giro/Tour then I would Dennis and Jack Bobridge, say he’s the guy to do it,” Briton before world time trial champion Froome told Cycling Weekly. Wiggins has his tilt. “It’s not only difficult, it’s The Team Sky rider will then risky,” Contador, one of only six leave the road for good to focus ‘real deal’ and not just a flash in show he has what it takes to win Greipel and John Degenkolb as men with wins in all three grands on his 2016 Olympic challenge, the pan. one of the ‘Monument’ classics. well as France’s Arnaud Demare tours, said. leaving it to Froome to help the Their performances indicate German Marcel Kittel, the best and Nacer Bouhanni, who are not Like Froome, Nibali will avoid British outfit show more than a revival is gathering pace and sprinter in 2014, will have to hold on the same team anymore after a heavy race schedule ahead of last year, when Dave Brailsford’s there could be more to come with off the fresh challenge of Norway’s the latter left FDJ for Cofidis. the Tour in order to stay as fresh squad disappointed on the Tour. Warren Barguil showing at last Alexander Kristoff, while Briton With one year to go before the as possible. The Italian, who was The world’s greatest cycling year’s Vuelta that he too would be Mark Cavendish will be looking 2016 Olympics, the track cycling dominant on all terrains in last race will also reveal whether the a force to be reckoned with in the to fight his way back to the front world championships being held year’s race, will face increased French renaissance led by Jean- French ranks. This season will having massively underperformed in France next month will be of scrutiny as his Astana team are Christophe Peraud and Thibaut also be the occasion for Slovakian last season. greater importance to those seek- on the radar of the International Pinot, who finished second and prodigy Peter Sagan, who joined Other sprinters to watch in ing to hone preparations ahead of Cycling Union (UCI) following a third respectively in 2014, is the Contador’s Tinkoff-Saxo team, to 2015 include Germans Andre the Rio Games. REUTERS

Winnipeg Jets’ Dustin Byfuglien Warner defends ‘call’ to Sharma Root backs Crowe’s celebrates after his goal on Arizona Coyotes goalie Mike Smith (41) during the third period SYDNEY: Explosive Australian Umpire (in at MTS Centre on Monday. opener David Warner yester- idea of yellow cards red) comes day defended a heated on-field forward to exchange with Indian bats- BRISBANE: Having been on player for six months,” he added. intervene as man Rohit Sharma in which he the receiving end of Australian The confrontation with Rohit NHL: Rangers demanded the Indian cricketer Australia’s opener David Warner’s fiery follows Warner’s spat with “speak English”. David temper, England batsman Joe another Indian, Shikhar Dhawan, outclass Warner said the verbal fire- Warner (left) Root sees logic in Kiwi great in the Adelaide test last month, works at a One-Day International argues with Martin Crowe’s call for a soc- after which both players were at the Melbourne Cricket Ground India’s Rohit cer-like card system to curb fined. Penguins 5-2 on Sunday earned him a fine of Sharma player misbehaviour. Root felt Crowe’s suggestion 50 percent of his match fee from (right) The latest, against India’s Rohit made a lot of sense. NEW YORK: Rick Nash and the International Cricket Council. during their Sharma in Sunday’s tri-series “At the minute, people aren’t Derek Stepan each scored twice The Australian fielders had tri-series contest, cost him half his match happy with the way people are as the New York Rangers beat taken offence when the Indians match at fee and a reprimand from his holding themselves on the field the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2 to went for a single off an overthrow the MCG in own board, who have asked the and if that is going to sort it claim their 15th win in their which they wrongly believed was Melbourne 28-year-old “to stop looking for out then why not?” asked Root, last 18 games. in breach of cricket etiquette. on Sunday. trouble”. famously punched by Warner in Nash raised his season total to “When I went over to say “...there is a growing con- a bar in 2013. 28 goals after being held without a something to him, he sort of said cern that David Warner’s thug- “You are out there to either point in his previous three games. something in their language and Warner said: “I thought I was OK “No, because we were actually gish behaviour has gone too far,” score runs or take wickets, if That had followed a stretch of I said ‘speak English’ because, if by asking him to speak English going at each other anyway dur- former New Zealand captain that is not your main focus then nine goals in 14 games. you’re going to say something for and I am going to say it a couple ing the game,” he said. Crowe wrote in his ESPNCricinfo you are not doing your team a In other game Red Wings me to understand, theoretically I of times if he keeps saying it in During the summer’s Test column. full service,” Root said ahead defeated Sabres for another win cannot speak Hindi,” Warner told Hindi.” series against India, which saw “Soon one day, it will lead to of Tuesday’s tri-series one-day in the event. AGENCIES Sky Sports Radio. Warner admitted he should tense sledging, Warner said he an incident that will sully the international against India. “So I did the polite thing and not have confronted Sharma but would not be toning down his game for good,” added Crowe, “There have been a few things made a call him to speak English, said the pair had been engaging “banter” and he repeated that convinced fines can no longer act that have happened over the last NHL Results therefore he did and I can’t repeat in “friendly banter” during the stance yesterday. as a deterrent. six months and that is not good Detroit 6 Buffalo 4 what he said.” match, which Australia won with “If people get on the wrong “You have to take them out of for the game,” he said. Winnipeg 4 Arizona 3 Asked whether there was six balls to spare despite a cen- side of me, I’m not going to back the game for extended periods. “But I can’t really see it going Chicago 3 Dallas 6 anything wrong in the manner tury by Sharma, and he didn’t feel down,” he said. Two yellow cards should result in that far to lead to a punch-up... in which he asked the question, the need to apologise. AFP a red card, which should ban any it’s not ice hockey.” REUTERS Pittsburgh 2 NY Rangers 5 Participants heap praise on QOC’s ‘Be Fit’ programme

DOHA: A meeting was held on their communities. Karan Rekhi, He assured that the pro- and consequently to illnesses such Sunday in the Lusail Hall at the the VLCC Director for the Gulf gram will continue through the as diabetes. QOC tower, with the partici- region praised the participants National Sport Day and will He underlined that the VLCC pants in the second edition of attending the meeting who man- be further developed so that it uses the most developed tech- the ‘Be Fit’ programme. aged to reduce their weight in attracts as many participants as niques and equipment in the This programme was launched a scientific and informed way possible. world and counts in its staff spe- by the Qatar Olympic Committee under the supervision and with From his side, Waleed Messaad, cialists in various domains. (QOC) within the activities of the assistance and the follow up of the VLCC Public Relations One of the participants in the the National Sport Day, in coop- the VLCC representatives. Director, stated that there have ‘Be Fit’ programme, Karim Ali, eration with the VLCC Wellness He affirmed that the VLCC been some participants who could said: I managed, through my par- Center. has always been ready to provide reduce their weight by 50 to 70 Kg ticipation in the programme to The programme was highly every possible help to enable the after they had joined the center reduce 38 kg of my 138 kg weight, successful in its actual second participants getting rid of the before the ‘Be Fit’ programme due to the advice and support of edition and the number of par- extra kilogrammes and conduct- was launched. the VLCC staff and the therapy ticipants increased significantly ing a healthy life. The programme has also con- sessions in the center,” he said. as various categories and nation- Rekhi underlined that the pro- tributed to increasing the number “I am extremely happy to have alities took part in it. gram has been very successful in of participants in the center after finally been able to recover and to This reflects the civilisational Qatar and abroad, saying that highly positive registered results. participate in all activities which dimension of the mission targeted many people from Gulf countries Khalid Al Muqaddam, VLCC were too hard for me to do.” Partcipants say they have highly benifited from QOC’s ‘Be Fit’ programme. by the ‘Be Fit’ programme as it called for the programme to be diet specialist and in charge of Huda Aman Mubarad, another is aimed at encouraging partici- also organised in the countries weight reducing process, said participant in the program, pants to operate positive changes where they live, after the State that the programme represents expressed her happiness to have hope. After reaching the weight surgery or any similar surgery but in their lifestyle and behaviour of Qatar had taken the initiative the start of a new life where the succeeded reaching the weight of 116 kg, she managed to bring the physician advised her not rush and to permanently adopt those due to the willingness of its lead- participant could become healthy that she was targeting after she it down to 60 kg. She admitted to such solutions, with regard to changes, thus, contributing in ers to promote the health level of and active and avoid the bad diet took part in the ‘Be Fit’ program that at a certain point, she envis- their negative impact on health. increasing general awareness in the population. habits which lead to overweight me which represented for her real aged to undergo a gastric bypass THE PENINSULA TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 23

Australian Open Results Federer, Sharapova shine Results from day one of the Australian Open at Melbourne Park yesterday Men’s Singles First Round: Grigor Dimitrov (BUL x10) bt Dustin Brown (GER) 6-2, 6-3, 6-2; Joao Sousa (POR) bt Jordan Thompson (AUS) 6-4, 7-6 (7/5), 6-4; Martin Klizan (SVK x32) bt as women’s seeds scatter Tatsuma Ito (JPN) 7-6 (8/6), 6-2, 6-4; Marinko Matosevic (AUS) bt Alexander Kudryavtsev (RUS) 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 4-6, 7-5, 6-3; Kevin Anderson (RSA x14) bt Diego Schwartzman Comfortable victories for Nadal and Murray; Hradecka stuns Ivanovic (ARG) 7-6 (7/5), 7-5, 5-7, 6-4; Lukas Lacko (SVK) bt Maximo Gonzalez (ARG) 4-6, 6-2, 7-5, 6-7 (4/7), 6-1; Ricardas Berankis (LTU) bt Igor MELBOURNE: Roger Federer Sijsling (NED) 2-6, 6-4, 7-6 (7/2), 6-7 (6/8), and Maria Sharapova glittered 6-4; Andreas Seppi (ITA) bt Denis Istomin (UZB) under the Rod Laver Arena 5-7, 6-3, 2-6, 6-1, 6-4; Jeremy Chardy (FRA lights yesterday, restoring order x29) bt Borna Coric (CRO) 3-6, 6-4, 7-5, 6-4; at the Australian Open after Andy Murray (GBR x6) bt Yuki Bhambri (IND) eight women’s seeds crashed out 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (7/3); Richard Gasquet (FRA in the afternoon sun on a manic x24) bt Carlos Berlocq (ARG) 6-1, 6-3, 6-1; opening day. James Duckworth (AUS) bt Blaz Kavcic (SLO) The evergreen Federer strolled 6-2, 5-7, 7-6 (9/7), 3-6, 6-2; Rafael Nadal into the second round with a (ESP x3) bt Mikhail Youzhny (RUS) 6-3, 6-2, classy 6-4, 6-2, 7-5 win over 6-2; Tomas Berdych (CZE x7) bt Alejandro Falla Taiwan’s Lu Yen-Hsun before (COL) 6-3, 7-6 (7/1), 6-3; David Goffin (BEL fellow second seed Sharapova x20) bt Michael Russell (USA) 6-3, 6-3, 5-7, ruined Croatian qualifier Petra 6-0; Edouard Roger-Vasselin (FRA) bt Tommy Martic’s 24th birthday with a 6-4, Robredo (ESP x15) 3-2 retired; Lukas Rosol 6-1 victory. (CZE x28) bt Kenny De Schepper (FRA) 4-6, Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray 6-2, 6-7 (4/7), 6-3, 6-4; Phillip Kohlschreiber also enjoyed comfortable wins (GER x22) bt Paul-Henri Mathieu (FRA) 6-2, as three of the men’s ‘Big Four’ 6-2, 6-1; Bernard Tomic (AUS) bt Tobias shook out the early-season rust. Kamke (GER) 7-5, 6-7 (1/7), 6-3, 6-2; Leonardo Federer joined Sharapova in Mayer (ARG x25) bt John Millman (AUS) 6-3, the winners’ circle at the Brisbane 6-3, 6-2; Marcos Baghdatis (CYP) bt Teymuraz International this month and, on Gabashvili (RUS) 6-2, 6-7 (5/7), 3-6, 6-4, 6-4; his coach Stefan Edberg’s 49th Tim Smyczek (USA) bt Luke Saville (AUS) 7-6 birthday, the Swiss notched his (7/2), 7-5, 6-4; Jurgen Melzer (AUT) bt Victor 1,001st tour win. Estrella Burgos (DOM) 6-1, 6-4, 6-2; Dudi Sela “Winning in the first round, it’s (ISR) bt Jan-Lennard Struff (GER) 6-4, 4-6, 3-6, always a bit of a relief. I thought I 6-3, 7-5; Sam Groth (AUS) bt Filip Kranjinovic played good,” the 33-year-old told (SRB) 6-3, 7-6 (7/4), 6-4; Viktor Troicki (SRB) bt reporters after dashing around Jiri Vesley (CZE) 6-3, 3-6, 6-2, 6-3; Ivo Karlovic the court like a frantic teenager (CRO x23) bt Ruben Bemelmans (BEL) 6-4, 6-2, against the 47th-ranked Lu. 6-4; Roger Federer (SUI x2) bt Lu Yen-Hsun While seventh seed Eugenie (TPE) 6-4, 6-2, 7-5; Simone Bolelli (ITA) bt Juan Bouchard advanced with a Monaco (ARG) 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, 6-1; Malek Jaziri (TUN) bt Mikhail Kukushkin (KAZ) 6-2, 6-3, 2-6, straight-sets victory over 98th- 7-6 (7/3); Thanasi Kokkinakis (AUS) bt Ernests ranked German Anna-Lena Gulbis (LAT x11) 5-7, 6-0, 1-6, 7-6 (7/2), 8-6; Friedsam, half of the 16 women’s Nick Kyrgios (AUS) bt Federico Delbonis (ARG) seeds in action were swept away 7-6 (7/2), 3-6, 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3. before the sun had set on a glori- ous day. Women’s Singles First Round: Julia Goerges Fifth seed Ana Ivanovic was (GER) bt Belinda Bencic (SUI x32) 6-2, 6-1; the highest-profile casualty, the Simona Halep (ROU x3) bt Karin Knapp (ITA) 6-3, 6-2; Lara Arruabarrena (ESP) bt Renata former world number one falling Voracova (CZE) 6-1, 6-2; Magdalena Rybarikova in three sets to doubles special- (SVK) bt Ana Konjuh (CRO) 6-4, 6-4; Jarmila ist Lucie Hradecka of the Czech Russia’s Maria Sharapova reacts after winning a point against Petra Martic of Croatia during their women’s singles first round match at the Australian Gajdosova (AUS) bt Alexandra Dulgheru (ROU) Republic. Open, in Melbourne yesterday. RIGHT: Roger Federer of Switzerland celebrates after defeating Lu Yen-Hsun of Taiwan in their men’s singles first 6-3, 6-4; Peng Shuai (CHN x21) bt Tatjana Ninth-seeded German round match at the Australian Open. Maria (GER) 6-4, 7-5; Klara Koukalova (CZE) Angelique Kerber blamed a “bad bt Storm Sanders (AUS) 7-5, 6-4; Kristina day” at the office after being back after thrashing Russian vet- resplendent in a pink shirt and a his display at the refurbished title this year, had few worries in Mladenovic (FRA) bt Sabine Lisicki (GER x28) dumped out by Romanian Irina- eran Mikhail Youzhny. fluorescent yellow headband. Margaret Court Arena. a 6-3 6-2 rout of Italian Karin 4-6, 6-4, 6-2; Lucie Hradecka (CZE) bt Ana Camelia Begu in three topsy- Coming back after a long lay- “I hope this match will give “The whole match he made Knapp. Ivanovic (SRB x5) 1-6, 6-3, 6-2; Caroline Garcia turvy sets. off from injury and illness, Nadal me confidence as I play the next it very difficult, he played very Men’s seventh seed Tomas (FRA) bt Svetlana Kuznetsova (RUS x27) 6-4, Lucie Safarova (16), Carla gloomily ruled himself out of title round.” aggressively,” Murray said of Berdych went through without 6-2; Karolina Pliskova (CZE x22) bt Evgeniya Suarez Navarro (17) and twice contention before the event but Sixth seed Murray, bidding for Bhambri, the lowest-ranked fuss while number 10 Grigor Rodina (RUS) 7-5, 6-1; Anna Schmiedlova Grand Slam champion Svetlana the Spaniard eased quickly into a maiden Australian Open title player in the draw at 317. Dimitrov, tipped to rock the ten- (SVK) bt Chanelle Scheepers (RSA) 6-4, 4-6, Kuznetsova (27) were also among the Grand Slam groove with a 6-3, after three trips to the final, “He shouldn’t be ranked 300 in nis establishment after a break- 6-2; Polona Hercog (SLO) bt Wang Qiang (CHN) the eight sent packing. 6-2, 6-2 win. opened up with a 6-3, 6-4, 7-6 (3) the world.” out 2014 season, showed ominous 3-6, 6-3, 6-2; Bethanie Mattek-Sands (USA) It was steadier going on the “This first match here was win over Indian qualifier Yuki Romania’s Simona Halep, form with a 6-2, 6-3, 6-2 victory bt Duan Ying-ying (CHN) 6-4, 3-6, 6-3; Yanina men’s side where an undercooked tough mentally for me,” the 2009 Bhambri, occasionally berating seeded third and fancied to break over German Dustin Brown. Wickmayer (BEL) bt Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova Nadal felt the confidence flooding champion said on centre court, himself but pleased overall with through for a maiden Grand Slam REUTERS (RUS x23) 4-6, 6-3, 6-3; Katerina Siniakova (CZE) bt Elena Vesnina (RUS) 6-2, 7-5; Oceane Dodin (FRA) bt Alison Riske (USA) 7-6 (7/5), Australian Open 3-6, 6-3; Stefanie Voegele (SUI) bt Pauline ‘Solid’ Bouchard looks to improve on win Parmentier (FRA) 6-1, 3-6, 6-2; Monica Puig Schedule (PUR) bt Arina Rodionova (AUS) 6-0,-6-3; Order of play on show courts at MELBOURNE: Seventh seed She said she always felt in con- of last year’s Australian Open then the pace, snatching a break in the Christina McHale (USA) bt Stephanie Foretz the Australian Open today (x Eugenie Bouchard said there trol against the world number followed up with appearances in opening game. (FRA) 6-4, 1-6, 12-10; Ekaterina Makarova denotes seeding): was plenty of room for improve- 98 and was enjoying her tennis the final four at Roland Garros But her attempts at spectacular (RUS x10) bt An-Sophie Mestach (BEL) 6-2, 6-2; Rod Laver Arena ment after booking a berth in after a long off-season that ended and the Wimbledon decider. winners frequently went wide or Zarina Diyas (KAZ x31) bt Urszula Radwanska 11am (0000 GMT) the Australian Open second when she played the Hopman Cup The world number seven took into the net and Friedsam seized (POL) 3-6, 6-4, 6-2; Sara Errani (ITA x14) bt round yesterday with a “solid” this month and defeated world some time to warm up, conced- her opportunity with a double Grace Min (USA) 6-1, 6-0; Eugenie Bouchard Samantha Stosur (AUS x20) vs Monica win over Germany’s Anna-Lena number one Serena Williams. ing break points on her first three break back. (CAN x7) bt Anna-Lena Friedsam (GER) 6-2, Niculescu (ROU) Friedsam. “I haven’t played an official service games as unforced errors Bouchard refocused to take 6-4; Carina Witthoeft (GER) bt Carla Suarez Stan Wawrinka (SUI x4) vs Marsel Ilhan (TUR) The 20-year-old Canadian,a match in two-and-a-half months, mounted but managed to hold on control again and closed out the Navarro (ESP x17) 6-3, 6-1; Yaroslava Shvedova Novak Djokovic (SRB x1) vs Aljaz Bedene semi-finalist at Melbourne Park so it really does give your brain a and stay on even terms. match when Friedsam pushed her (KAZ) bt Lucie Safarova (CZE x16) 6-4, 2-6, 8-6; (SLO) last year, downed Friedsam 6-2, break,” she said. Her radar finally kicked in return wide, sparking celebra- Alexandra Panova (RUS) bt Sorana Cirstea (ROU) 7pm 6-4, cruising through the first set “For me, it makes me so excited at 3-2, when her returns began tions among the vocal “Eugenie 7-5, 6-0; Silvia Soler-Espinosa (ESP) bt Annika Lleyton Hewitt (AUS) v Zhang Ze (CHN) in 30 minutes then grinding out to play. I feel good mentally and to find their range and she ran Army” in the stands. Beck (GER) 7-5, 6-4; Roberta Vinci (ITA) bt Shelby Rogers (USA) v Ajla Tomljanovic (AUS) the second over 48 minutes. I’m just so ready to fight and leave Friedsam around the court, rat- “It’s never easy playing a first Bojana Jovanovski (SRB) 7-5, 6-1; Kiki Bertens Margaret Court Arena 11am “I started strong and it was a everything on the court. I don’t tling off five consecutive games round, especially of a Slam, so I’m (NED) bt Daria Gavrilova (AUS) 7-6 (10/8), 5-7, 6-2; Irina-Carmelia Begu (ROU) bt Angelique Nicolas Almagro (ESP) vs Kei Nishikori (JPN little bit windy,” she said. “I was feel tired at all.” to quickly wrap up the first set. happy I was able to get through x5) happy to stay solid but there’s still Bouchard rose to prominence The second was a see-sawing it,” the Canadian sensation said. Kerber (GER x9) 6-4, 0-6, 6-1; Maria Sharapova (RUS x2) bt Petra Martic (CRO) 6-4, 6-1. Taylor Townsend (USA) vs Caroline Wozniacki lots of things to improve.” when she reached the semi-final affair as Bouchard tried to push AFP (DEN x8) Yvonne Meusburger (AUT) vs Casey Dellacqua (AUS x29) China’s Li announces pregnancy to Aussie crowd 7pm Serena Williams (USA x1) vs Alison van MELBOURNE: Pioneering time. It’s really nice to be able are expecting our first child. We Uytvanck (BEL) Chinese tennis star Li Na to settle down and focus on her are overjoyed! And it really feels Lucas Pouille (FRA) vs Gael Monfils (FRA x17) announced she was pregnant in family and her husband and her like this baby is going to enter the Hisense Arena 11:00 am front of 15,000 cheering fans at future child,” Sharapova said. world already having about 15,000 Sloane Stephens (USA) vs Victoria Azarenka the Australian Open yesterday. In statement, Li said she was friends.” (BLR) The two-time Grand Slam overjoyed. Li, who won nine titles in her Illya Marchenko (UKR) vs Milos Raonic (CAN winner, hugely popular at the “A mere 12 months ago, I career, is credited with introduc- x8) Australian Open where she won stood on this court clutching the ing tennis to the masses in China. Petra Kvitova (CZE x4) vs Richel Hogenkamp the title last year and reached the Australian Open trophy tightly in She became a sporting pio- (NED) final in 2011 and 2013, unexpect- my hands, a huge grin on my face, neer in her homeland when she Maria-Teresa Torro-Flor (ESP) vs Venus edly retired in September. overwhelmed with joy and a sense decided to break from the state Williams (USA x18) She is a guest of honour at of accomplishment that I shared sports system in 2008 with a Show Court 2 Melbourne Park this year and told with everyone who had helped me group of up and coming players, Alenjandro Gonzalez (COL) vs Fabio Fognini the crowd at the Rod Laver Arena along the road to this incredible in a move dubbed by local media (ITA x16) ahead of Roger Federer’s opening achievement,” she said. “fly alone”. Robin Hasse (NED) vs Gilles Simon (FRA x18) match that she was expecting her “Today, all of those emotions The move meant she was first child. came back to me, yet I had extra able to choose her own coaches Olivia Rogowska (AUS) vs Nicole Gibbs (USA) “Dennis and I are so excited. butterflies in my stomach because and keep most of her winnings Kurumi Nara (JPN) vs Agnieszka Radwanska Our first child will arrive in the I wanted to share a very special rather than giving them to the (POL x6) summer,” she said to huge cheers secret with the Australian Open government. Show Court 3 and congratulations from Maria fans. Ton-up Serena Zhang Shuai (CHN) vs Alize Cornet (FRA x19) Sharapova. “Over the years, they have sup- Serena Williams marks her Dominika Cibulkova (SVK x11) vs Kirsten “I think she’d be a great mum. ported me and truly helped my 100th consecutive week as world Flipkens (BEL) I think it’s a really exciting new success, so it felt just right to let number one this week, only the David Ferrer (ESP x9) vs Thomaz Bellucci chapter in her life,” said the them in on a little secret I’ve been fourth player to ever complete Last year’s Australian Open champion Li Na of China waves to the crowd (BRA) Russian world number two. holding on to for a few months the feat, according to the WTA. as she stands next to the women’s singles trophy during an official Julien Benneteau (FRA x25) vs Benjamin “It’s something that I believe now. The American took top spot on ceremony at the Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne Park yesterday. Becker (GER) she’s wanted for a really long “This summer, Dennis and I February 13, 2013. AFP TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 24 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Windy Doha doesn’t bother Garcia The Spaniard ready to defend title at this week’s Commercial Bank Qatar Masters BY RIZWAN REHMAT Commercial DOHA: Sunday night’s pelting rain and accompanying strong Bank Qatar winds sent most scurrying for cover at the Doha Golf Club but for Spain’s Sergio Garcia the extends changing weather patterns seem to have played into his hands. sponsorship Garcia, the defending champion at this week’s Commercial Bank World number six deal Qatar Masters, said he is looking Sergio Garcia, forward to a compelling challenge who won the DOHA: Commercial Bank yes- at the 7,374-yard course that got Commercial Bank terday announced a three-year drenched during the unexpected Qatar Masters extension as title sponsor of heavy downpour forcing a massive last year, is the Commercial Bank Qatar dip in mercury yesterday. seen in action Masters, one of The European “I like the wind. I obviously at Doha Golf Tour’s marquee global events enjoy playing the wind,” Garcia, Club yesterday. with a $2.5m prize fund. 35, said yesterday. Commercial Bank is this year This week’s “It (the wind) asks you to do a marking its 10th year as title Commercial Bank lot more on the course. You just sponsor of the event, from 2006, got to deal with the best way pos- Qatar Masters and announced its latest extension sible. For some it is going to be begins tomorrow. with the Qatar Golf Association a little tougher than others. It (QGA) yesterday. The new agree- definitely makes the course more ment will cover title sponsorship challenging,” Garcia added. from 2016 through to 2018. “Yes, obviously the wind does The 2015 Commercial Bank effect the play. It becomes much Qatar Masters begins tomorrow tougher to control the ball flight at the magnificent Doha Golf and the distances. But obviously Club, which has hosted the event it is something that is not new since its inauguration in 1998. here in Qatar and we play outside Abdulla Saleh Al Raisi, CEO (and) sometimes we get windy of Commercial Bank, said: “This days,” the Spaniard explained. year Commercial Bank is cel- Last year, Garcia beat Mikko confident going into his first event possible opportunity to do well. the goal in 2015 is to keep play- Sunday rain caused a bit of a con- ebrating its 40th year as Qatar’s Ilonen in a thrilling play-off bat- of the new season. We will see how it goes,” Garcia ing well. cern for the staff managing the largest private bank and 10th year tle to start the 2014 season with “Preparations have been good. said. Garcia said there was no “(I want to) just to keep going greens. as title sponsor of the Commercial a win. I have been practicing at home,” pressure going into the event as in the right direction and trying “We are playing outdoor golf Bank Qatar Masters. Commercial “It feels great, obviously,” Garcia said. the defending champion. to keep improving like I have been course so it gets effected by strong Bank is now proud to announce Garcia said about his arrival as “You know it’s the first week “Honestly the great thing about doing the last three-four years,” winds,” Meyers said. “What it a three-year extension to our the defending champion. “It is and obviously there’s a bit of a it (starting as defending cham- Garcia said. “Last year was a very does it does to us (organisers) is sponsorship of the Commercial my first event of the year. It is an question mark but I am excited pion) is that you have done really consistent year for me. I played that we have to keep an eye on the Bank Qatar Masters, one of The event I look forward to every year. about it. Obviously it is a tourna- well. It is nice to win a tourna- well for most of the year. I would speed of greens in case the winds European Tour’s most prestigious I want to do well here,” he added. ment I really enjoy playing and ment you like. It is always a posi- like to play in same lines like last do get light. Otherwise the course and established events.” Garcia, who hasn’t played I have done well before. I am tive. Every year you start from year,” he added. can become unplayable (because He added: “We have worked active golf since mid-December, excited to be here. scratch,” Garcia said. Chris Meyers, the General of the strong winds),” he added. for a decade with our part- said he has hit enough balls to feel “I will keep myself in the best For the 35-year-old Spaniard, Manager at Doha Golf Club, said THE PENINSULA ners including the Qatar Golf Association, Qatar Olympic Committee, The European Tour and Doha Golf Club to help establish the Commercial Bank Garcia’s team wins Challenge Match Qatar Masters into one of Qatar’s greatest sporting spectacles and DOHA: World number our continued support is part of six Sergio Garcia won the our commitment to the Qatar Commercial Bank Qatar National Vision 2030. Based on Masters Challenge Match for Commercial Bank’s simple but the second straight year, as his powerful promise that ‘everything four-man team beat sides led is possible’, we look forward to the by World No. 2 Henrik Stenson tournament’s future with ambi- and World No. 5 Justin Rose. tion and confidence.” ‘Team Garcia’ recorded a score Hassan Al Nuaimi, President of of 25.4 in a Texas Scramble for- QGA, said: “We are delighted that mat, beating ‘Team Rose’ (27.4) our valued partner Commercial and ‘Team Stenson’ (29.2). Each Bank has extended its sponsor- Challenge Match team featured ship of the Commercial Bank one pro and three Qatari juniors. Qatar Masters through to 2018. Garcia, 35, was reunited with The tournament has grown Sami Qush, who was part of the immeasurably since Commercial Spaniard’s winning team last Bank signed as title sponsor in year, while the winning side also 2006 and we’re now proud to featured Abdullah Khamis, 16, host one of The European Tour’s and Ahmed Al Mutawa, 13. most popular events. Commercial “We had a lot of fun again and Bank’s continued title sponsor- the players did really well. It’s nice ship will ensure the tournament to win, but it’s more important FROM LEFT: Keith Waters, CEO and Director of International Policy for The European Tour, Fahad Nasser Al Nuaimi, General Secretary, Qatar goes from strength to strength to see that the young guys have Golf Association (QGA), Hassan Al Nuaimi, President, QGA, world number six Sergio Garcia, Abdulla Saleh Al Raisi, CEO, Commercial Bank, and enhances Qatar’s position on been taught good basics and are Mohammed Faisal Al Nuaimi, Head of Media, CBQM and Chris Myers, Tournament Manager and General Manager, at Doha Golf Club, yesterday. the global sporting map.” enjoying the game,” said Garcia, PICTURE: QASSIM RAHMATULLAH Keith Waters, Chief Operating who is the defending champion Officer of The European Tour, at this week’s Commercial Bank said: “The Commercial Bank Qatar Masters. a lot in the past 12 months – and “I feel like I played much bet- team, which featured Saoud Al where the young Frenchman Qatar Masters has been fortu- “I remember Sami well from said Garcia had also played better ter than last year and Sergio also Muhanadi, Arnab Jain and Sheik beat Rory McIlroy and Martin nate to have such a strong title last year and he’s made some nice than last year. played much better than last year, Abdulrahman Al Thani. Kaymer. sponsor for 10 years, so this three- improvement. “This is my second year win- so hopefully he wins the Qatar “It was great fun. It was great Commercial Bank Qatar year extension is fantastic news “All the guys played well today ning the trophy. Sergio is one of Masters again this year.” to get out there with the juniors. Masters tickets are avail- for the tournament and everyone and it’s great that the Qatar Golf the best players in the world and Rose was participating for the They’re very keen on their golf able to purchase now at Virgin at The European Tour thanks Association has a growing youth one of my favourite golfers. He first time in the Challenge Match, and they play it in exactly the Megastores (in stores in Doha Commercial Bank for their con- programme.” gave me some tips, so that will be which was inaugurated last year, right way,” said Rose, the 2013 and online), Doha Golf Club, and tinued commitment. The Desert Qush, 16, said he had improved useful for me,” the youngster said. and was full of praise for his US Open champion. the Doha Rugby FC. Swing has been a key factor in “You can tell they’ve been Each ticket purchased entitles the growth of golf in Qatar and brought up really well with the the holder to one free return drive the Middle East, and Commercial etiquette and traditions of the to the event at Doha Golf Club by Bank’s support of the Qatar game, and they’re playing exactly event partner UBER. Commercial Masters is key to this develop- as they should. They were a lot of Bank Qatar Masters tickets for ment.” THE PENINSULA fun to be around and they holed a adults are priced as follows: lot of good putts, which saved me Since 1998 the prestigious a lot of grey hair today! Qatar Masters golf tournament Past Champions “They know the greens really has been hosted by Doha Golf well and I was learning some of Club. 2014 Sergio Garcia (Spain) the lines from them. We had a The annual tournament is 2013 Chris Wood (England) really good time and everybody sponsored by Commercial Bank 2012 Paul Lawrie (Scotland) played their part. Everybody con- of Qatar and is held at the begin- tributed a nice shot or two and ning of each year as part of The 2011 Thomas Bjørn (Denmark) made a nice difference to our European Tour. 2010 Robert Karlsson (Sweden) score.” Many of the world’s top golf- Team Stenson featured ers compete on Doha Golf Club’s 2009 Alvaro Quiros (Spain) Abdulrahman Al Naimi, unique and challenging desert- 2008 Adam Scott (Australia) Abdulrahman Al Dahaimi and type Championship Course, which 2007 Retief Goosen (South Africa) Nada Mir. Stenson, Rose and has proven to be one of the long- Garcia are the top-ranked play- est par 72 courses on the tour. 2006 Henrik Stenson (Sweden) ers at this week’s Commercial Designed by Peter Harradine 2005 Ernie Els (South Africa) Bank Qatar Masters, which tees and unveiled in 1997, the 7,374- 2004 Joakim Haeggmann (Sweden) off tomorrow at Doha Golf Club. yard Championship Course Four-time Major winner Ernie features eight strategically 2003 Darren Fichardt (South Africa) Els and 2011 Masters champion positioned lakes, 65 giant cacti, 2002 Adam Scott (Australia) Charl Schwartzel are among the numerous imposing limestone other big names in the tourna- rock formations and an abun- 2001 Tony Johnstone (Zimbabwe) ment’s 18th edition, while Gary dance of lush and lengthy green 2000 Rolf Muntz (Netherlands) Spain’s Sergio Garcia and his team-mates celebrate victory in the 2015 Commercial Bank Qatar Masters Challenge Stal will also be in the spotlight fairways, presenting a startling 1999 Paul Lawrie (Scotland) Match at Doha Golf Club yesterday. after his sensational come-from- contrast to the desert that lies behind victory in Abu Dhabi, beyond. THE PENINSULA 1998 Andrew Coltart (Scotland) TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 SPORT www.thepeninsulaqatar.com 25 Ahmed stunner gives Bahrain victory over Qatar

Al Annabi fail to capitalise on chances as Bahrain finish on a high Jimmy Walker lifts the winner’s trophy after the final round of the Sony Open in Hawaii on Sunday. SYDNEY: Sayed Ahmed scored a stunning goal nine minutes Super sub from time to give Bahrain a victorious conclusion to their Walker cruises Asian Cup campaign with a 2-1 ‘Gucci’ wins win over Qatar in their final to 9-shot win Group C match yesterday. it for Iran With both teams having at Sony Open lost their first two matches at BRISBANE: Substitute Reza the tournament, neither could Ghoochannejhad scored in the HONOLULU: Jimmy Walker progress to the knockout stages first minute of stoppage time became the first back-to-back so only pride was at stake as they yesterday to give Iran a thrilling winner of the Sony Open since battled it out in front of a crowd 1-0 win over the United Arab 2004, successfully defending his of 4,841 at Stadium Australia. Emirates and the top spot in title in dominant fashion as he Sayed Dhiya Shubbar scored 10 Group C of the Asian Cup. blitzed the PGA Tour field on minutes before the break to give Ghoochannejhad, nicknamed Sunday. Bahrain a 1-0 halftime lead and “Gucci”, headed the ball past The 36-year-old American Ahmed’s strike was a worthy win- keeper Alireza Haghighi after a posted the biggest winning mar- ner, the midfielder curling the ball scramble in the box to send the gin in the 50-year history of the from 10 metres outside the box on majority-Iranian crowd of over event. He fired a seven-under 63 the left into the top right-hand 11,000 into raptures. to finish at 23-under 257, nine corner of the goal. The win means Iran will now shots in front of runner-up Scott Qatar, who equalised through play the runners-up in Group D in Piercy. Hasan Al-Haydos after 68 min- the quarter-finals, probably Iraq He also won just a week after utes, will count themselves or Jordan, and avoid a likely clash blowing a three-shot lead with unlucky not to have at least Bahrain’s Sayed Dhiya (left) congratulates his team-mate Sayed Ahmed after the latter scored a goal against with defending champions Japan. five holes to play at the Hyundai forced a draw given the number Qatar during an Asian Cup Group C match at the Stadium Australia in Sydney yesterday. The entertaining match looked Tournament of Champions in of chances they created but the headed for the first draw of the Maui. 2022 World Cup hosts paid the Shubbar had also found the Boualem Khoukhi should have Asadalla Thaimn blasting the ball tournament until the Charlton “I really wanted to finish out price for their profligacy. woodwork for Bahrain with a equalised for Qatar just before at Aldoseri with the goal at his Athletic forward popped up with the day today, which I didn’t do Young Qatari striker backpost header before he broke halftime but tried to flick the mercy after 49 minutes. the winner, beating the offside last week,” he said. “I kept grind- Mohammed Muntari crashed the the deadlock in the 35th minute. ball into the net with his right Muntari got the ball into the trap. ing and making putts and that’s ball against the bar with a header Impressive Bahraini winger foot rather than hit it first time net three minutes later only to be The match produced some of what I did today.” after 24 minutes and also headed Faouzi Aaish skipped past two with his left, allowing goalkeeper called back for offside and it was the most exciting football of the In this event last year, Walker narrowly over with another free Qatar defenders to get to the Hamad Mohamed Aldoseri to Al-Haydos who got his country’s tournament as the two teams emerged from a five-way tie to header in the 74th minute before byline before cutting the ball back save with his face. second goal of the tournament went for all-out attack. shoot a closing round of 63 and shooting wide from close range for Shubbar to fire it past Qatar The misses kept coming for when he fired a free kick under In a fast-paced opening to beat Chris Kirk by one shot. four minutes later. goalkeeper Qasem Burhan. Qatar after halftime with Ali the defensive wall. REUTERS the game both teams had good South Africa’s Ernie Els was chances as the play went from the last back-to-back winner of end to end. the Sony Open in 2004. UAE’s Khamis Esmaeel Walker shot four straight Belmadi blames hectic schedule for exit unleashed a blistering shot from rounds in the 60s this week at 25 yards out that just sailed the Waialae Country Club to fin- SYDNEY: Qatar have paid the is too much profligacy in front of goal. to win a game at this tournament wide, before teammate Omar ish the week at 23-under-par 257. price for a packed schedule, for us, espe- “When you miss goals it’s at least. We came here with a lot Abdulrahman caused Iranian The victory is his fourth on the believes coach Djamel Belmadi cially when about many things; it’s about of expectation and we didn’t win a flutters when he ghosted into the PGA Tour and his first since win- (pictured) after the Gulf Cup you have a luck, it’s about concentration,” he game. We are all, of course, really box on the 10-minute mark, only ning the AT&T National Pro-Am champions crashed out of the short time said. “Unfortunately, we created disappointed. For the positive for the defenders to put the ball last season. AFC Asian Cup Australia 2015 between chances but we didn’t score and things, I will see that later on.” behind for a corner. “Just more confidence, more without a point yesterday. the compe- this is what happens. THE PENINSULA However, the Iranians came comfortable,” Walker said. “I’ve “In one year, we had three tition, only “In my experience, especially as storming back and had two great got good people. I’ve got a great competitions, which is a lot for one month a player, I’m always worried about chances of their own, first Sardar trainer, Mark, a good coach in a national team,” he said. “We between. this kind of game and when you Asian Cup Today’s Azmoun’s shot was deflected Butch and a great wife and kids. won two, so it’s something that’s It’s not an don’t score you lose the game. for a corner and then Alireza Things are good.” not easy. One West Asian Cup at excuse, but a fact. This is what happened to us Fixtures Jahanbakhsh headed straight to Piercy posted his second home, one Gulf Cup away from “In three competitions, we won today.” Group D keeper Majed Naser. straight 66 to finish in sole posses- home in Saudi Arabia and we two of them. Maybe I will analyse The defeat was Qatar’s third Iraq vs Palestine (0900 GMT); Japan vs UAE went close again three sion of second place at 14-under know how difficult it is to win about this. It’s about our level, in a row at the tournament, the Jordan (0900 GMT) minutes before the break when 266. Harris English and Gary there. maybe too many competitions for country’s most disappointing per- Quarter-final Ali Mabkhout fired a dangerous Woodland both fired three-under “Maybe, this third competition one year.” formance since they last missed ball across the face of goal but a 67s, while Matt Kuchar fired a Thursday, January 22 Young striker Mohammed out on the AFC Asian Cup finals sliding Habib Al Fardan arrived one-over 71 and the trio finished Asian Cup Results Muntari missed a series of in 1996. South Korea vs Uzbekistan (0730 GMT); just too late to meet it. tied for third at 13-under 267. opportunities against Bahrain “We worked hard over the China vs Australia (1030 GMT) The second half was just as Rory Sabbatini (63), Jerry Kelly Uzbekistan 3 (Rashidov 2, 79, Shodiev 70) yesterday, hitting the woodwork last four days and we were really Friday, January 23 thrilling as both teams threw (66), Brian Davis (67), Zac Blair Saudi Arabia 1 (Al Sahlawi 60-pen) twice for a Qatar team that was concentrated and had the desire Iran vs Second runner-up of Group D (0630 everything they had at each other (67), Max Homa (69), Shawn China 2 (Sun 1, 42) North Korea 1 (Gao 56 on top for most of the game and to win this game,” said Belmadi. GMT); Winner of Group D vs United Arab without creating any clear scoring Stefani (68) and Justin Thomas OG) Belmadi was left ruing his team’s “We need confidence, we wanted Emirates (0930 GMT) chances. AFP (70) all ended tied for sixth at 12-under. Walker entered the final round with a two-shot lead and then Tevez fires Juve Messi lets his feet do the talking coasted out of the gate with seven straight pars followed by back to MADRID: Lionel Messi’s he has not explicitly denied claims Luis Enrique told a news confer- back birdies. future at Barcelona has been the his relationship with Luis Enrique ence on Sunday. But he showed no mercy on the five points clear subject of intense speculation in has broken down. “He has not dropped off at any back nine, recording five birdies recent weeks but the Argentina Whatever the reality of the moment,” added the former Barca and four pars to complete the ROME: Juventus reached the Fast-starting Juventus have captain showed again on Sunday situation, if Messi continues his and Spain midfielder, who took nine-stroke win. halfway point of the Serie A made a habit of scoring in the he is not letting it distract him prolific scoring form Barca will over from Messi’s compatriot Piercy shot a bogey-free round season with a commanding opening minutes of games, with from what he does best. have a good chance of returning Gerardo Martino at the end of with birdies on one, two, 10 and five-point lead over Roma after nine of their league-leading 42 Messi followed up a brilliant to winning ways this term after last season. 16, but there was no way he was thrashing Verona for the second coming inside the opening 15 showing in last weekend’s 3-1 La failing to win major silverware in Messi’s treble was his 22nd going to overtake Walker. AFP time in four days on Sunday. minutes. Liga win at home to champions 2013-14 for the first time in six in La Liga, one fewer than Paul Pogba and Serie A leading Pogba struck after three min- Atletico Madrid with a hat-trick years. Real Madrid’s Portugal forward scorer Carlos Tevez both scored utes with a precise low shot from in a 4-0 win at Deportivo La “He has been playing at a phe- Cristiano Ronaldo, who beat Sony Open Scores in the opening seven minutes as 20 metres. Four minutes later Coruna which kept Barca hard on nomenal level the whole season,” Messi into second place to win a Juve extended their lead at the Tevez scored, taking advantage of the heels of leaders Real Madrid. third FIFA Ballon d’Or award on HONOLULU: Leading final- top of the standings with a 4-0 a dummy by Pogba that left him Reports have been swirling Monday. round scores on Sunday in win. alone in the box. about a rift between Messi and La Liga Results Messi, voted the world’s best the $5.6m USPGA Sony Open Juve have 46 points from 19 Verona, however, held firm Luis Enrique, with the four-times player four times between 2009 (USA unless noted, par-70): games, with Roma on 41 after for the next 59 minutes before World Player of the Year appar- Getafe 0 Real Madrid 3 (Ronaldo 63, 79, and 2012, has hit 30 hat-tricks 257 Jimmy Walker 66-66-62-63 they were held 1-1 at Palermo on Roberto Pereyra grabbed his first ently unhappy with the Barca Bale 67) for Barca in all competitions and Atletico Madrid 2 (Mandzukic 34-pen, Raul 266 Scott Piercy 67-67-66-66 Saturday. goal for Juve. coach’s management style and three for Argentina. 267 Matt Kuchar 65-63-68-71, Gary Napoli are a distant third with Eight minutes later Tevez net- tactics and said to be seeking an Garcia 87) Granada 0 Real, who have a game in hand, Deportivo la Coruna 0 Barcelona 4 (Messi Woodland 70-65-65-67, Harris 33 points after beating Lazio 1-0 ted his second of the game after exit from the club he joined at the top La Liga on 45 points at the 11, 33, 62, Sidnei 83-og) English 66-69-65-67 in Rome on Sunday thanks to an receiving a pass from Claudio age of 13. halfway point of the season, with Elche 1 (Jonathas 12) Levante 0 268 Jerry Kelly 73-62-67-66, Rory 18th minute goal from Argentine Marchisio inside the box. Messi responded by saying he Barca second on 44 and Atletico Sevilla 2 (Bacca 36, Suarez 68) Malaga 0 Sabbatini (RSA) 64-67-74-63, Brian international Gonzalo Higuain. REUTERS was not thinking of leaving but third on 41. REUTERS Davis (ENG) 66-70-65-67, Shawn Stefani 69-66-65-68, Justin Thomas 67-61-70-70, Max Homa 69-67-63- 69, Zac Blair 71-66-64-67 269 Webb Simpson 62-66-72-69, Brian QMMF finalises Qatar International Rally route Harman 66-67-64-72, Russell Knox (SCO) 66-65-69-69, Daniel Berger DOHA: The Qatar Motor of Qatar. The rally will kick off regroup and service. The three QMMF for the podium ceremony. President and FIA Vice-president 68-66-68-67 and Motorcycle Federation from Doha’s Corniche at 7pm demanding gravel stages will be Altogether 539.84km will cov- Nasser Khalifa Al Attiyah. 270 Stuart Appleby (AUS) 68-69-67-66, (QMMF) has finalised the route on February 5. Teams will then repeated in the afternoon. ered by the rally and organisers “This year we have extended Pat Perez 67-68-70-65, Ryan Palmer for the 2015 QMMF Qatar tackle the super special stage Six further special stages are have planned 263.27 competitive the championship from six to 69-63-69-69, Jason Day (AUS) 65- International Rally, which is the before heading off to the Qatar planned on February 7. The popu- kilometres. eight rallies and are looking for- 69-68-68, Colt Knost 70-68-66-66, first round of the FIA Middle Aqua Park where the cars will be lar Mekanes special precedes a “We have been running the ward to getting the season off Jason Kokrak 67-69-64-70, Daniel East Rally Championship. kept overnight. stage at Salwa and a third timed event as the traditional opening to a safe and successful start in Summerhays 66-67-67-70, Russell The three-day event will be The bulk of the competitive test of 27.56km (the longest of round of the FIA Middle East Qatar,” he added. Henley 72-64-67-67, Robert Streb held over three days, February action will start the next morning. the rally). Another late morn- Rally Championship for many Entries will be accepted till 63-69-69-69 5-7. The first day will comprise Teams will tackle special stages at ing regroup and service precedes years and are continuously evolv- this Thursday and the QMMF is 271 Charles Howell 69-66-67-69, Chez a 2.27km super special stage and Umm Wishah, Al Shabana and a repeat of the three specials ing and making small improve- offering a special assistance pack- Reavie 67-67-68-69, James Hahn 12 gravel stages will held over Al Kharsaah before returning to on February 7 before the teams ments to the rally itself and age to international entrants. 69-64-69-69, Chris Kirk 66-67-74- the next two days in the deserts the Qatar Aqua Park for a midday return to the headquarters of the the special stages,” said QMMF THE PENINSULA 64 TUESDAY 20 JANUARY 2015 26 www.thepeninsulaqatar.com SPORT Ruthless Spain march into last 16 at World Defending champions crush Chile for third straight win

DOHA: A perfect Spain group matches. “If we won’t be coasted to an emphatic 37-16 hungry for victory there’s noth- win over Chile to become the ing to do for us here. “It was a first team to qualify for the great game for Spain. Very dif- last sixteen knockout stage of ficult to say what went wrong for Argentine fans cheer on their team during the Qatar 2015 24th Men’s the 24th Men’s Handball World us. We played like kids. We let the Handball World Championship match against Poland at the Duhail Championship. opponents do what they wanted. Handball Sports Hall in Doha, on Sunday. Yesterday at Duhail Sports Spain clearly showed us we’ve got Hall, the defending champions, problems.” who earlier won against Brazil Chile, which secured qualifica- and Belarus, registered their tion of the Doha championship Argentina ‘Gladiators’ third successive win of Group A in dramatic fashion scoring in to retain the unbeaten record. the penultimate second against The Spanish tactic going into Uruguay, started on a promising match was to defend in the first note taking the lead in the fifth set sights on Rio 2016 and attack in the second half and minute. that worked wonders. The Spaniards bounced back DOHA: Argentine coach practical in his approach to the “This game was played differ- two minutes later to pull one Eduardo Gallardo took young Gladiators preparation for the ently in the first and the second back. inexperienced players to his global Olympic forum next year half. In the first period we dem- Thereafter, Spain decided team back in 2007 and the in Rio. Half of his team is based in onstrated good defense and in stepped up the pace and took Argentina’s national side, Argentina and half of it is training the second we attacked well. We the lead. However, Chile refused known to its supporters as the and playing in France, including achieved an impressive goal dif- to throw in the towel. The dark ‘Gladiators’, began developing the driving force behind the fire ference,” Spanish coach Manuel horses showed no signs of bowing gradually since then gaining power of the Argentinian national Cadenas said. under pressure. confidence as well as valuable squad – the Simonet brothers. All “We qualified and now we The world champions enjoyed experience. three of them. will be concentrating on further a three-goal advantage going into Clear favourites to qualify So the Argentinian team’s stages of the tournament,” he the last ten minutes of first half for the Olympic Games in Rio style of play combines differ- added. and went into the break at the next year, the Argentinian ent approaches uniting different Goalkeeper Gonzalo Perez de score reading at 14-7. Gladiators have the Brazilian schools as it were. In Gallardo’s Vargas of Spain was delighted In the second half, the tempo Cidade Maravilhosa, as Rio is view this is a very healthy that they have secure the pre- of the game dropped significantly being known – A Marvellous City, development. quarter-final spot. “We were and it looked like the only Chilean firmly in their sight. “We are very open for the new better in every component of the preoccupation was to keep the Coaching staff and the play- ideas and we are learning every game, notably in fast breaks. Very goal difference to single figures. ers are using their participation day particularly when taking happy we’ve qualified and will It wasn’t happening for them in the Qatar 2015 24th Men’s part in an amazing event like have an opportunity to defend our though. Spanish were showing Handball World Championship as the World Championship here in title in the next round.” all signs of being a runaway train a spring board to get into optimal Qatar,” Gallardo said. Chile coach Fernando Capurro as increased their lead to more A Chilean player averts attack from the Spaniards during their Group A form before next year’s Olympic “So you cannot underestimate said nothing went right for his than points. The Chilean house match at the 24th Men’s World Handball Championship at Duhail Sports Games. the value of the experience we are team yesterday. “We’ve had a cards started to fall apart, with Hall. BELOW: Spain’s Jorge Maqueda (second left) attempts to score Gallardo, a former player gaining here while growing and really bad game. There’s nothing Spaniards registering 37-16 win. during the match. Spain won 37-16. PICTURES BY: KAMMUTTY VP himself, says his team is going improving as a team.” to add. We will be drawing the Valero Rivera top scored for through a four-year preparation The Argentinian players also conclusions from our mistakes.” Spain with seven goals while cycle. The final goal of this cycle realise the importance of posi- Chilean Pivot Marco Oneto Arraya andJaver Frelijj scored is a successful performance in Rio tive thinking and growing self- said the team needs to motivate three goals apiece. next year. esteem on their road to Rio too. themselves ahead of the nest two THE PENINSULA “We regard Qatar 2015 as an Argentina’s goalkeeper Matias integral part of our preparation Schulz emphasises the impor- for the Olympic tournament in tance of this approach. Today’s Order of Play Rio,” Gallardo said. “We need to think of the posi- Group C: Algeria, Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Iceland, Sweden “We concentrate our efforts as tive things,” Schulz said. “A few well as set our goals with the Rio years ago we could not have Day Time Match Venue Olympics in mind. Clearly taking dreamed of challenging teams 7.00pm Czech Republic vs Egypt Al Attiyah part in the World Championship like Poland and Denmark, but January 20 9.00pm Sweden vs Algeria Al Attiyah is an incredibly useful experience now this is possible.” 9.00pm France vs Iceland Duhail that could play to our advantage. So come next year in Rio we Group D: Argentina, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Russia, Saudi Arabia We oppose strong teams, we might see a much improved 7.00pm Argentina vs Saudi Arabia Duhail concentrate hard on achieving and more confident team from positive results. What could beat Argentina who could live up to January 20 7.00pm Poland vs Russia Lusail this?” its name – The Gladiators. 9.00pm Denmark vs Germany Lusail Señor Gallardo is being very THE PENINSULA Qatar 2015: Doha greets fans from around the globe

DOHA: The first weekend Bosnia’s blue and yellow colours was impressed with the event. of the Men’s Handball World and were delighted with the out- “I’m here for this weekend, and Championship succeeded in come of the match. if Bosnia continues to win then, bringing a diverse range of fans The third most popular sport in I will definitely come back to see to Qatar, with many register- Bosnia after football and basket- them. The facilities and organisa- ing their surprise and delight ball, handball has great commu- tion of this event have been fan- at the warm welcome they have nity support in the small Eastern tastic. To see this many Bosnians received. European country. Many fans turn up to support our team is so Handball brings an incredible have made the trip to Doha to amazing. selection of nations together in support their team’s efforts here. A boisterous and happy crowd competition, and for many visi- Bosnia and Herzegovina qualified of Russians were present at the tors, Qatar 2015 has been their for its first major international Duhail Handball Sports Hall on first visit to Qatar – or even to competition when it earned a Friday afternoon to watch the the Middle East. In particular, place at the 24th Men’s World showdown with Saudi Arabia. the Championship has welcomed Handball Championship. “The match environment has a large contingent from Eastern Layla Suljic, a Bosnian national been very exciting, and Duhail Europe and Bosnian Fans Thrilled and resident of Doha, was espe- arena is amazing. I play handball With Debut Win cially excited for her team. “I myself, and I can tell you that this Excited Bosnian handball fans always expected that our team facility is among the finest I have took off to the Lusail Sports would win and I’m so happy to see seen anywhere in the world,” said Arena to cheer on their team, them win here. The stadium and Alexander Kashirin, a Russian as they appeared in their debut the organisation has been amaz- national, who has lived in Doha World Cup game against Iran on ing!” she said. for three years. Friday. Coming from all over the Damir Kartal, who travelled Lusail Multipurpose Hall Brazilian fans cheer for their home side at the 24th Men’s World Handball Championship at the Lusail Multipurpose Gulf region, as well as Europe and to Doha from Dubai specifically saw one of the largest crowds Hall yesterday. PICTURE BY: SALIM MATRAMKOT Australia, fans came dressed in to watch Bosnia’s opening match on Friday, as FYRO Macedonia

took on Tunisia. Although signifi- cantly outnumbered by Tunisian supporters, the Macedonian fans were able to match them for vol- ume and cheering. Known as the “Macedonian Phalanx”, the fans travel around the world with their team and are highly com- Russian fans mitted to the game –they even support their team received a certificate of apprecia- in the game against tion from the IHF for their devo- Saudi Arabia at tion towards their team Duhail Sports Hall A Macedonian fan who lives in Doha said, “Everyone fol- on Friday. lows handball in Macedonia. It’s a really big sport for us. I came here expecting Macedocnia to win, since we have a really strong team this year. There are 20-30 people here from Macedonia to cheer our team on and especially German fans applaud during Germany’s match against Russia at the Kiril Lazarov - he’s the team’s Lusail Multipurpose Hall. superstar.” THE PENINSULA

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www.thepeninsulaqatar.com [email protected] | [email protected] Editorial: 44557741 | Advertising: 44557837 / 44557780 Qatar stun Slovenia to end jinx Hosts reach knockout stage after 12 years; Croatia, Macedonia advance at World

BY ARMSTRONG VAS complicated against a team of extended it to 10-7. Qatar came more but it was too late with the Slovenia’s class, but this is the back strongly with centre back hosts registering a 31-29 win. For DOHA: Hosts Qatar stunned deserved result of work which has Kamalaldin Mallash, the toast of Qatar, Rafeal Capote top scored Slovenia 31-29 – the 2013 semi- been done for a very long time.” the hosts. with 12 goals, while Jure Dolenec finalists – to maintain their Qatar’s right back Abdullah Al Mallash, who sat out of the scored eight for Slovenia. unbeaten record and qualify Karbi described the win as a ‘his- last match against Chile after The hosts, who won against for the knockout stage of the toric ‘one. the injury he had sustained in Brazil 28-23 on Thursday and on Qatari players 24th Men’s Handball World “This is a historic victory for us. the opening match against Brazil, Saturday defeated Chile 27-20, celebrate Championship. It was a difficult celebrated his will take on world champions after shocking Yesterday’s win at the Lusail match against a comeback. Spain tomorrow and Belarus in th Slovenia in Multipurpose Hall, the third suc- well organised 24 Men’s Handball He scored the concluding group match on their Group A cessive one in the six-team group Slovenian team, seven out of January 23. secured a place for Qatar in the which contains World Championship his team’s first Qatar become the second team, match at the pre-quarter-final stage of the some of the best 14 goals, and after Spain, to qualify from Group 24th Men’s championship, after a gap of 12 players in the Results together with A and join Croatia and Macedonia, Handball years. world.” Group A Goran Stojanovic who made it from Group B, after World The last time they made it was Slovenia coach Brazil 34 Belarus 29 in goal he played winning their respective matches. Championship in Portugal in 2003 where they Boris Denic said Spain 37 Chile 16 a great part in Macedonia secured a spot in at the Lusail picked up the 16th spot, in 2005 a number of Qatar going into pre-quarter-finals after a 25-22 Multipurpose Qatar 31 Slovenia 29 they came a distance 21st and in blunders cost the half time win over Bosnia and Herzegovina Hall, outside Group B 2007 and in 2013 picked up the them the match. break with a at Ali Bin Hamad Al Atiyya in Doha 23rd and 20th places. “We made Macedonia 25 Bosnia Herzegovina 22 three-goal lead Al Sadd. yesterday. “Of course, I am very, very too many tech- Croatia 41 Iran 22 at 18-15. At Duhail Sports Hall, Croatia PICTURE happy with this victory that nical mistakes Austria 25 Tunisia 25 In the second stormed to an easy 41-22 win over BY: SALIM secures our spot at the pre-quar- and missed too half, Slovenia Iran to register their third suc- MATRAMKOT ter-finals,” Qatar coach Valero many free scor- fought back and cessive win in Group B and book Rivera said. ing opportunities,” he said. with five minutes left equalised a place in the knockout stage. “I think our attacking play was In a fortune-fluctuating match, at 28-28. In another match of group A good today, but we won this game the Asian Games champions set Thereafter, the Slovenians did at the same venue, Brazil secured with our hearts and a bit with our the tone at the start but Slovenia not get any further goals while their first victory of the tourna- tactics,” he added. bounced back to go ahead at 8-7, Qatar scored three to widen the ment by defeating Belarus 34-29. “We knew it would be very 12 minutes into the match and lead at 31-28. Slovenia scored one THE PENINSULA