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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 JAMADA ALTHANI 2, 1435 AH www.kuwaittimes.net Sir John Major to NATO to bolster Jailed Israeli spy Neymar deliver inaugural forces in east could be key rescues lecture 2at KU Europe7 to peace8 talks Barcelona20 Kuwait to create Max 27º Min 12º High Tide telecom regulator 00:53 & 12:52 Low Tide Kuwait to upgrade connectivity 07:07 & 19:33 40 PAGES NO: 16123 150 FILS KUWAIT: Kuwait’s parliament yesterday approved a bill to Kuwait is the only Gulf Arab country without a telecom Many Kuwait residents have opted for mobile broad- conspiracy theories create an independent telecom regulator, which should regulator and the creation of such a body may indicate the band instead. The creation of an independent regulator end a conflict of interest as the Ministry of government will revive plans to privatize the fixed net- still requires the ruling Amir’s approval although that is Communications currently regulates the industry and work, which has been under consideration for more than considered a formality and would end about a decade of The summit hub operates the fixed-line network. It was not clear though 20 years. Market participants such as Internet service debate and indecision over the establishment of a telecom what the new regulator’s powers will be or what impact it provider Qualitynet have complained that state control of watchdog. Kuwait relies largely on ageing copper net- might have on the country’s four major Internet service the fixed network has left Kuwait lagging behind its Gulf works for fixed telecoms services. It has fallen behind providers or its three mobile operators, Zain, Saudi peers in terms of Internet connectivity. As of July 2012, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, whose Telecom Co affiliate Viva and Wataniya, a subsidiary of Kuwait’s Internet connection speed was a little over a third government-linked telecom operators have invested heav- Qatar’s Ooredoo. of the UAE’s, according to Business Monitor International. ily in fiber-to-the-home. — Reuters By Badrya Darwish Turkish president meets Amir
t was good that Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Minister of State for ICabinet Affairs refuted the information spread- ing on social media that the Arab Summit confer- ence held in Kuwait last week cost the government around KD90 million. Actually, Sheikh Mohammad gave the price - not only of the last conference held in Kuwait but also of the previous eight summits that had been held in Kuwait. Lately, Kuwait has become a summit hub, holding events like Friends of Syria, GCC ministerial meetings or Arab African Economic forums. There were other three Arab League summits held too in addition to more such forums. Since Kuwait has succeeded in becoming a sum- mit hub, I pray to God that we can become a finan- cial and touristic hub as well. That would be more beneficial for the nation. I am not going to bore you with the names of all the summits held here. But we do care about the size of the bill. According to Sheikh Mohammed the nine summits cost Kuwait KD40 million. But look at how rumors had spread. Prior to the official’s estimate of the cost of the eight conferences, diwaniyas in Kuwait were chew- ing on the rumors that the cost of the last summit alone was KD 90 million - almost the size of the budget of a country. The rumors also had it that a carton of tomato bought for the summit cost as KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah welcomes the Turkish President Abdullah Gul and his wife yesterday. The Turkish much as KD19. I think that a carton of the best president is on a three-day official visit to Kuwait. —KUNA (See Page 3) tomatoes you can buy in Kuwait would not cost more than KD4. I am sure the rumors were exag- gerated. The problem with rumors is that if there was something positive, people would not share it NA holds secret session over budget with others. If the case is about something negative then all tweets and WhatsApp will be buzzing - spreading it. By B Izzak I am sure Sheikh Mohammad was referring to the summits’ logistics cost. If he counts the contri- KUWAIT: The National Assembly yesterday agreed to butions and donations which Kuwait government postpone the issue of raising children and housing had provided to Friends of Syria and the African allowances until the next term starting late October at Summit, for example, to whom Kuwait is known to the request of the government, following a presenta- contribute, then the number will be far from the tion on the country’s financial situation in a closed ses- given one. Donations and contributions are a differ- sion. As the Assembly was about to start debating pro- ent thing of an event like this. posals to raise children allowance which stands at KD 50 The most important thing for us is the outcome per month per child, Finance Minister Anas Al-Saleh of these summits, especially the Arab Summit demanded to make a presentation on the country’s which was held last week. What was the real out- financial status behind closed doors. come? Without the picture options and hand- At the end of the two-hour debate, Speaker Marzouk shakes, we dream of serious action being taken at Al-Ghanem said the National Assembly agreed at the an Arab Summit, for a change. We want the nations request of the government to postpone issues which to wake up and realize that the only thing for them have financial cost until the next term. is unity. I don’t think any of them is blind not to see Continued on Page 13 that. We wanted them to talk for a change, admit their mistakes and open their hearts to each other and have a new start as a united nation. I think I am Qatar - UAE’s a dreamer. But sometimes dreams can be costly. KUWAIT: His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah gestures during a parliament session at Kuwait’s National Assembly yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat 8th emirate?
DUBAI: A top Dubai security official, General Dahi Khalfan, Apocalyptic prophecies fuel war in Syria has claimed Qatar as forming part of the United Arab Emirates, adding a new dimension to a dispute with Doha. BEIRUT: Conflict in Syria kills hundreds of intervention from the north and west of “Qatar is an integral part of the UAE,” the outspoken thousands of people and spreads unrest the country. Khalfan, a longtime critic of the Doha-backed Muslim across the Middle East. Iranian forces bat- The power of those prophecies for Brotherhood, wrote on Twitter on Monday, demanding his tle anti-Shiite fighters in Damascus, and many fighters on the ground means that country “reclaim” Qatar. “We must put up signs on our bor- the region braces for an ultimate show- the three-year-old conflict is more deeply ders with Qatar stating: ‘You are now entering the UAE’s eighth emirate,’” said Khalfan. down. If the scenario sounds familiar to an rooted - and far tougher to resolve - than The UAE is a seven-member federation. Leading up to anxious world watching Syria’s devastat- a simple power struggle between the region’s independence from Britain, Qatar and Bahrain ing civil war, it resonates even more with President Bashar Al-Assad and his rebel in 1968 joined the Trucial States, as the UAE was then Sunni and Shiite fighters on the frontlines foes. Syria’s war has killed more than known, but their union fell apart three years later. The - who believe it was all foretold in 7th 140,000 people, driven millions from their Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain last month withdrew Century prophecies. homes and left many more dependent on their envoys to Doha, accusing it of meddling in their From the first outbreak of the crisis in aid. Diplomatic efforts, focused on the internal affairs by supporting Islamists. the southern city of Deraa to apocalyptic political rather than religious factors driv- Qatar is a staunch supporter of the Muslim forecasts of a Middle East soaked in blood, ing the conflict, have made no headway. Brotherhood, viewed by most conservative monarchies in many combatants on both sides of the “If you think all these mujahideen the Gulf as a threat to their grip on power. Khalfan, who conflict say its path was set 1,400 years came from across the world to fight was Dubai’s police chief before being promoted to second ago in the sayings of the Prophet Assad, you’re mistaken,” said a Sunni in command of security, has more than 600,000 followers Mohammad (PBUH) and his followers. Muslim jihadi who uses the name Abu on Twitter. His comments on Qatar sparked a wave of con- Among those many thousands of sayings, Omar and fights in one of the many anti- troversy on the social network. A Kuwaiti user compared him to former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, whose YABRUD, Syria: A handout picture shows the bodies said to be those of rebel or hadith, are accounts which refer to the Assad Islamist brigades in Aleppo. “They confrontation of two huge Islamic armies are all here as promised by the Prophet. troops invaded Kuwait in 1990 calling it Iraq’s 19th fighters after pro-Syrian government forces took control of the Observatory 45 province. — AFP in the north of Latakia. — AFP in Syria, a great battle near Damascus, and Continued on Page 13 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 LOCAL
Sir John Major to deliver inaugural lecture at KU Iran wants talks KUWAIT: Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the British with KSA on Syria embassy in Kuwait, in partnership with the Euro-Gulf Research Unit at Kuwait University and Burgan Bank, announced yesterday that former Amir invited to visit Iran British Prime Minister Sir John Major By Nawara Fattahova will be giving the first ever ‘Dickson Lecture’ at Kuwait University tomorrow. KUWAIT: The Deputy of the Iranian Foreign The lecture will be attended by Finance Minister Hasan Abdullahyan is visiting Kuwait to Minister Anas Al-Saleh as the official hold talks with His Highness the Amir Sheikh representative of HH the Amir. Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and deliver Sir John will talk about the strong the invitation of the Iranian President Hassan historical ties between UK and Kuwait, Rouhani to visit Iran. During this visit he also and his own recollections as British discussed the bilateral relations between prime minister during Kuwait’s libera- Kuwait and Iran. tion. He will also focus on what the UK Abdullahyan praised the wisdom of the Amir and Kuwait can do now and in the in solving different regional issues. “During the future to build on their strong political meeting we discussed bilateral and internation- and economic ties. Sir John will look at al relations and it was a useful meeting. We the entire scope of British-Kuwaiti ties Sir John Major think that the safety of the region is important and offer his assessment of what they for both countries, as the extremist groups are Embassy is delighted that Sir John has executing terrorist acts in different countries. I mean in the modern world, and partic- agreed to deliver the first lecture, and blame the governments for this negligence in ularly in the context of a fast changing that the Euro-Gulf Research Unit at facing these terrorist groups,” Abdullahyan said and often unstable region. Kuwait University’s Faculty of Social KUWAIT: The Deputy of the Iranian Foreign Minister Hasan Abdullahyan addressing the news without naming any particular country. Iran and conference yesterday. Sir John was British prime minister Sciences has agreed to host the event. Saudi Arabia are on opposite sides of the con- between 1990 and 1997, during which Speaking about their support for the flict in Syria. through a serious discussion between the gov- Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa occupied by Iran are he oversaw Britain’s longest period of lecture and GREAT British Week, On the Syrian issue, he said that the solution ernment and the opposition. And Yemen’s state- one of the issues discussed at the Arab Summit continuous economic growth, the start Chairman of Burgan Bank Majed Al- should be diplomatic and not military. “Iran ments about Iranian interference are incorrect. held in Kuwait recently. “This issue of islands is a of the peace process In Northern Ajeel said: “Participating in the GREAT cares about the demands of the real Syrian On the contrary, we had positive negotiations misunderstanding. The Iranian stand on them is Ireland, and the UK’s participation in British Week demonstrates our commit- nation. Iran presented an initiative of possible with Sana’a and the future of our relations with historical,” he concluded. the liberation of Kuwait. ment to further encouraging bilateral solution to Al-Akhdar Al-Ibrahimi during his visit them is bright,” he pointed out. “President Rouhani has a proposal titled The Dickson lecture has been relations between two progressive to Iran, and we have negotiations with Turkey The foreign policy of Rouhani is part of the ‘World Against Violence and Extremism’. The named in honor of Col HRP Dickson, countries that share a historic bond. and Qatar. Soon the negotiations will include foreign policy of Iran. “It’s based on respect of president is also preparing an initiative to gath- and his wife Dame Violet Dickson, also Kuwait has come a long way since its other countries such as Saudi Arabia,” he neighboring countries. The recent visit of er regional cooperation which will be explained. known as Umm Saud. The history of the birth in 1613 and part of that growth Rouhani to Oman is the first of its kind and it announced soon. The issue of neutral zone According to Abdullahyan Iran is not interfer- Dicksons and their love for Kuwait is has included the resilient support of presents the best evidence of the goodwill. Also between Kuwait and Iran will hopefully be commemorated in the museum at ing in the internal issues of other countries. Rouhani’s invitation for HH the Amir is another solved soon, although such issues and cases the UK government through our “Some countries try to transfer their problems Dickson House and encapsulates the smooth and difficult times, especially step of improving the relations. There are differ- take years. During the past few months the outside their borders. For instance the problems ent forms of the possible expected cooperation bilateral relations were improved, there are fur- close history and friendship between during the 1990 Iraqi invasion. An in Bahrain or in Yemen are internal problems. the UK and Kuwait. The Dickson Lecture of the region’s countries,” noted Abdullahyan. ther joint issues from different fields that will be Important objective under Burgan Solving Bahrain’s internal problems can be done About the three Emirati island Greater and discussed next month,” added Abdullahyan. has been created with the blessing of Bank’s corporate social responsibility Col Harold and Dame Violet’s daughter, segment is to increase international Zahra Freeth. It will be annual event, presence and introduce gateways to a with alternating British and Kuwaiti world of possibilities that continue to speakers talking on a range of topics advance social and economic develop- broadly related to relationships ment in Kuwait through long-standing between the UK and Kuwait. The British allies like the UK.” MSAL unfamiliar with Awqaf minister’s charity activity KUWAIT: Ahmed Al-Sane, manager of board in any charity organization. the charities department at the Ministry Charities proclamation is done through of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) the cabinet and not the ministry of social stressed that the ministry was not affairs and labour”, he explained. informed if the Minister of Awqaf and Al-Sane remarked that MSAL was Islamic Affairs Dr Nayef Al-Ajmi had con- not concerned with responding to any ducted any charity activities. Al-Sane such accusations, “especially, if they had stressed that his list of responsibilities do no proof”. He warned that such accusa- not include his familiarization with the tions may provoke charity officials to be names of officials from charity organiza- more strict. tions. “The US treasury delegation occa- Commenting on the recent accusa- sionally meets with representatives from tions made by the US secretary of treas- the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour KUWAIT: Recently Kuwait’s traffic department awarded ideal drivers on occa- ury concerning Al-Ajmi’s support for ter- and other relevant government bodies. sion of the conclusion of a campaign for ideal drivers. The ceremony was held rorism, Al-Sane said that the ministry The delegation did not make any direct on occasion of the conclusion of the awareness campaign called “Thanks to you supervises charity organizations operat- accusations during those meetings”, he Kuwait is a better place. Thanks for being an ideal driver”. The campaign was ing locally regardless of the names of explained noting that the accusations held in collaboration with Boubyan Bank. The traffic department recently held their officials. “We do not know whether were made based on local media news a special ceremony to honor 20 winning drivers out of over 5,000 applicants minister Al-Ajmi has any charity activity stories about alleged charity violations who had no traffic violations. The assistant undersecretary for traffic affairs at the Ministry of Interior, Maj Gen Abdul Fattah Al-Ali and Boubyan Bank’s CEO or if he is a chairman or member of the without having any substantial evidence. and deputy chairman of the board, Adel Al-Majed awarded the winners.
Parliament asked to keep copies of KAC-Airbus deal
KUWAIT: The Minister of Communications Essa Al- Kandari sent a copy of the contract signed between Kuwait Airways Corporation and French plane manu- facturer Airbus to Parliament. The contract was signed as part of the carrier’s fleet renovation program.In a let- ter sent to Parliament Al-Kandari requested Parliament Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanim to keep copies of the con- KUWAIT: Two Asian expats were arrested for stealing tract at the office of the General Secretariat of the copper wires from various areas to sell them in National Assembly. In the letter he explains that these Amghara scrap yard. — Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun copies will be available for the exclusive viewing of lawmakers. The letter requested a ban on taking any of these copies for any reasons, Al-Qabas daily reported in the yesterday. The parliament voted last February to inves- news tigate all contracts signed by the state-owned Kuwait Airways, including the $4.4 billion deal signed the same month for the purchase of 25 Airbus aircraft and the New post for Al-Rumaihi lease of 12 others. KUWAIT: Ahmad Al-Rumaihi has been appointed Secretary General of Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority yesterday, according to the authority’s Chairman PAAET holds second Abdulrahman Al-Nemash. Al-Rumaihi expressed his appreciation for the trust he was given, saying he Kuwait heritage would do all he can to create more development, said the authority in a press statement. Al-Rumaihi was the exhibition assistant undersecretary for employment affairs in the Civil Service Commission. KUWAIT: The second Kuwait heritage exhibition opened here yesterday at the Public Authority for Citizens can file complaints Applied Education and Training (PAAET). KUWAIT: Upon instructions from the Deputy Prime “The exhibition aims at illustrating Kuwait’s past and Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammed Al- struggle of our forefathers through the student’s art- Khaled Al-Sabah to build communication channels works,” head of the exhibition’s organizing committee with citizens and expatriates in a bid to ultimately provide the best security services, the Undersecretary Suad Al-Hamar said. Lt. General Suleiman Al-Fahad resumed receiving citi- She added that the exhibition includes photography, zens and expats’ grievances, complaints and sugges- painting, and sculpture artworks that demonstrate the tions at his office. old Kuwaiti environment. On his part, photographer Hamid Al-Ameeri said Seminar focuses on violence expressed content over taking part in the exhibition as KUWAIT: Under the auspices of the Undersecretary of part of the judging panel, adding that students’ partici- the Ministry of Interior Lt. General Suleiman Al-Fahad and with the attendance of the ministry’s assistant pation in such venue would gain boost their confi- Camping season closed, sites cleared undersecretary for training and education, Lt. General dence, as well as hone their skills as young artists. By Hanan Al Saadoun A total of 33 truckloads of rubbish and abandoned mate- Ahmed Nawaf Al-Ahmed, The Strategic Studies Meanwhile, education technology Professor Ahmad rials were cleared from camping sites in Ahmadi, Nuwaiseeb Institute of the National Security College, yesterday Al-Sinafi said pointed out that holding such events KUWAIT: The Kuwait Municipality has begun clearing aban- and Wafra areas using half lorries, dump trucks and bulldoz- concluded a seminar titled “Violence in the Kuwaiti would help shed light on unexplored talents. “We need doned tents, poles, tires, furniture and other debris left in ers. Some of the left behind materials included old tires, Society and its impact on national security”. these exhibitions to encourage and foster their (stu- Kuwait’s camping areas following the official end of the wood for fires, tent materials, furniture, carpets and trash dents) talents”. — KUNA camping season. bins, poles, camping gear and sundry other materials. LOCAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
KUWAIT: Turkish President Abdullah Gul started yesterday a three-day official visit to Kuwait. The Turkish president is accompanied by a large high-caliber delegation including deputy prime minister, ministers of econo- my, finance and defense and several other top government officials. President Gul and his accompanying delegation were received at the airport by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, National Assembly Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanem, Deputy National Guard Commander Sheikh Mashaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Deputy Amiri Diwan Affairs Minister Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah, ministers and top army, police and National Guard commanders. — KUNA May 1 eyed as new date for foreign recruitment Ministry studying several proposals KUWAIT: Recruitment of foreign labor may be allowed controls over foreign recruitment facilitates the illegal beginning May 1, said unnamed sources within the trafficking in visas to expatriate workers and the abuse of Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor. Private companies sponsorship powers and rights over those sponsored. interested in recruiting staff in the country on commer- Other suggestions include academic and job specialty cial work visas cannot currently transfer their visas to qualifications as a condition for approving ‘visit visa to work permits due to restrictions placed by the ministry. work permit’ transactions, meaning to say that a worker The restrictions were expected to be lifted April 1 but must have a college degree and prior experience in the earlier this week the ministry announced that this would field of work they are recruited for. This was tested during not be the case. Transferring commercial visit visas to the past two months when the ministry gave exceptions work permits, one of the most common ways for foreign- to farmers and workers in other agricultural jobs to be ers to find a job in Kuwait, became officially suspended recruited in the same field. yesterday following the end of a one month period given The ministry is expected to announce the new regula- to allow those who came to Kuwait before Feb 16, 2014 tions when it officially announces reopening foreign to legalize their status. recruitment, which the sources indicate may happen at The MSAL managed in cooperation with the Interior the beginning of next month. Ministry to transfer nearly 3,000 visit visas to work per- mits during the months of February and March, which Labor Authority helped provide ‘sufficient number of workers’ for local The ministry could also be preparing to announce the business owners until foreign recruitment reopens, said official launch of the Public Labor Authority simultane- the sources quoted in an Al-Anba daily yesterday. ously or sometime close to reopening foreign recruit- “The ministry is studying several proposals that ment. include a suggestion to limit the number of workers that After the Cabinet appointed Jamal Al-Dousary, the an employer can recruit from outside Kuwait to 50 per- MSAL’s Assistant Undersecretary for the Labor Sector, as cent of the maximum number of employees they are General Director, in addition to Abdullah Al-Mutawtah, allowed to hire,” said the sources who spoke on the con- Badriya Al-Mekaimi and Ahmad Othman Al-Musa as his dition of anonymity because they did not obtain permis- deputies during its weekly meeting Monday, the next sion to speak to the press about plans under considera- step before the authority can start functioning is to com- tion. The remaining half are recruited from the local labor plete staff recruitment from the Labor Department in the KUWAIT: An open discussion called “The role of Media in Interreligious Dialogue” was hosted in the Alduaij market according to the proposal, the sources added. MSAL. Family diwaniya in Qadsiya on Monday. Ali Aslan, TV host of an international TV talk show on Deutsche This measure addresses rising concerns over Kuwait’s This process essentially aims at ‘merging’ the Labor Welle moderated the event which was organized by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation. Picture shows (from demographic imbalance, which observers say is fueled Department into the new authority after it is separated right) the ambassador of the Vatican to Kuwait Archbishop Petar Rajic, Osama Alduaij, host of the event, Ali by random foreign recruitment in the private sector. from the MSAL; which will be simply referred to as the Aslan, Rahma Janetzke from Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and Elvisa Alduaij, wife of Osama Alduaij and co- There are more than 2.5 million foreigners in Kuwait com- Ministry of Social Affairs when the labor authority oper- host during the forum. — Photos by Joseph Shagra pared with about 1.2 million Kuwaitis. The lack of proper ates officially.
Grandma takes boy after US Educational mother deemed ‘unfit’ Group visits Kuwait KUWAIT: The US Educational Group (USEG) will return to Kuwait to promote US colleges and universities at the Instagram costs mom custody of child Marina Hotel in Salmiya on Thursday April 3, at 6 pm. KUWAIT: The Court of Appeals yester- online. EducationUSA advisers will be present at the fair to day upheld a Court of First Instance Following a confrontation with her address students’ questions about education in the ruling which granted a woman cus- former mother-in-law, the woman cut United States in addition, US Embassy Consular Officers tody over her grandchild after she ties with her and refused to allow her will answer questions about the student visa process. argued that her son’s ex-wife was to see her grandson, leaving her with Representatives from USEG will provide information unsuitable for raising the boy. The little choice but to go to court in order about admission standards, financial aid opportunities, unprecedented ruling was based on to ‘save’ the boy, according to Al-Ajmi. summer programs, and student life at different US uni- pictures that the defendant posted on The Court of First Instance trans- versities. The US universities that will be represented at her Instagram account, which the ferred custody of the child from his the event are: Creighton University, DePaul University, grandmother provided as evidence to mother to his grandmother; a decision Indiana University, Kent State University, Marquette support her argument. that was ‘highly influenced’ by pic- University, McNeese State University, Middle Tennessee State University, Shoreline Community College, St The woman had taken pictures tures taken from the woman’s account John’s University, Southern Illinois University at with strangers and others which on Instagram and other social media Carbondale, University of Cincinnati, University of reflect her ‘erratic lifestyle’ which her outlets and which the grandmother Colorado: Boulder, University of Michigan: Flint, former mother-in-law said the mom provided. The mother appealed, and University of Southern Florida, University of Toledo, adopted following her divorce. the Appeals Court upheld the first rul- “My client noticed a change in the Western Kentucky University, and Western Michigan ing on the basis that the woman was behavior of her son’s ex-wife shortly State University. deemed unfit to raise her child. after the divorce, as she started Additional information about the fair can be found “The court confronted the witness- neglecting her duties as a mother at: www.aljamiatfairs.com For more information about es that the appealing party called with towards her son,” said attorney studying in the United States, visit http://www.educa- Mohammad Al-Ajmi in court. “[The the evidence, and they confirmed that tionusa.state.gov mother] began staying out late while the pictures are owned and were leaving the child under her domestic uploaded by the mother,” Al-Ajmi said. worker’s care. She also ignored my He also mentioned one picture client’s advice when she tried to showing the woman and her child Ministry considers explain to her the impact that her with a male stranger, who the witness- earlier school timings behavior could have on the child.” es confirmed was not related to them. According to Al-Ajmi, the kid’s “After hearing witnesses’ testimonies, KUWAIT: The Ministry of Education is considering a grandmother decided to go to court the court upheld the ruling that com- proposal to change the time of the start of public and claim custody rights of the child pels the woman to handover her child schools from 7:30am to 7am. The aim is to help after some relatives and friends intro- to his paternal grandmother to raise reduce traffic congestion on the streets of Kuwait in duced her to the defendant’s him,” the lawyer said. the early morning as parents would then need to drop their children off prior to 7am. Instagram account “which contains The case sheds light on the grow- The minister is currently surveying educational ing popularity of social media in pictures taken in inappropriate posi- zones for their opinions on the matter. The time tions and go against Islam’s teachings Kuwait, where open-minded opinions change might also even be applied to private schools and the Kuwaiti customs and tradi- are provided and which are used as a or only private schools but would impact parents, tions.” larger platform for free expression. teachers, school staff as well as other concerned par- “Some pictures were taken with The recent ruling received positive ties and would also be important for traffic patterns. strangers, including ones in which the reviews in comments on the news No date for a determination of the decision was giv- child also appears,” the lawyer said. He posted on Al-Aan news website yes- en. added that his client confronted her terday, as many people applauded the Currently the busiest times on the roads are early former daughter-in-law about the pic- grandmother for what she did, and morning between 7am to 8am and in the afternoons tures, and the latter did not deny tak- expressed appreciation to the Kuwaiti around 1pm to 3pm as this the opening and closing ing those pictures or posting them judicial system. times for schools and public sector employees. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 LOCAL
in my view wIn my vie Much ado about Didn’t i tell you that i don’t Health ministry’s women issues usual blunders want to see you in By Saad Dosari ministries again!!! t seems that women will continue to be one of the major topics of controversy in Saudi Arabia for the few years to come; and when I Isay “few years,” I am only saying it out of optimism, it could easily By Abdullah Buwair be “long years to come.” Reform Each and every issue related to women is an open arena of per- Bureaucracy sonal opinions and individual judgments that are mostly flavored by and religious and political debates. We talk endlessly about the way administrative women should move, wear, work, talk, or, to put it in few words, lead their lives. Actually, if you want any topic to make it to the headlines corruption and to be the hashtag of the day in the Saudi Twitterverse, throw the [email protected] word “women” in the middle of it. The relationship between Saudi man and woman is strikingly he common belief in Kuwait is that public hospitals unique and ... a bit confusing. It is always swaying in the shadows of have advanced equipment that are not found in love and hate, at the intersection of care and neglect, in the grey area Tmany countries around the world, yet lack special- between protection and overprotection. While a man can talk with a ists who are able to operate those machines. passionate sense of pride and honor about his direct family like An official in a state department told me about an inci- mother, wife, and sisters, he can switch gears in a second and shame- lessly slander other women he does not approve of. Al-Anbaa dent he experienced recently at a public hospital. While The subject of this article came to mind while reading the media walking in the corridors, the man was approached by a coverage of the Saudi Shoura member who “decided not to wear the Kuwaiti woman who seemingly recognized who he was, traditional black abaya” in one of the Shoura sessions. and asked if he could help her husband. She said that her If you started to read the coverage, and the tweets under the husband is admitted in the hospital as he has severe pain. hashtag that ignited the fire before seeing the controversial photo of However, his next checkup appointment falls after a Dr Hayat Sindi, the Shoura member, you would promptly assume that month. Dr. Sindi committed the unthinkable and came under the dome of the Shoura without her hair covered. Now if you know Dr Sindi, you “How come a patient has to wait for an entire month in will not only be surprised, but shocked, because Dr Sindi, with her kuwait digest order to get a checkup in the same hospital he is staying multiple international appearances, in addition to being actually in?” he wondered. The official also said that he met anoth- working abroad, has never been seen in public without her hijab. She What about our crimes? er citizen on his way out of the hospital, who had a similar is simply a Muslim woman who respects her religion. The same reli- story and asked if he could help. gion that promotes a decent attire and hair cover without ever giving Another patient told me that he went to the hospital a certain style or color the privilege of being the exclusive truth. By Ahmad Al-Sarraf after complaining of severe pain, and was diagnosed with Unjustified attack umors spread following a murder crime committed by an according to the source. He further states that the ‘lack of demand,’ has kidney stones. He came the next morning to the x-ray sec- She showed up for her Shoura session wearing the same simple Ethiopian domestic worker that the Interior Ministry planed to led to q ‘drop in prices’ of recruiting Ethiopian maids, and I have to ask tion to get an appointment as per the doctor’s request, hijab she was wearing when she appeared on the stage of King’s R‘kick out’ or stop renewing Ethiopian women’s visas, in addition here whether those terms mentioned in a newspaper’s report quot- but was given a date that fell after two months. How can a College to receive her pharmacology degree in 1995, when she to an earlier decision to stop recruiting labor forces from the East ing a state employee are considered decent human descriptions?! person tolerate pain for two months before the next received her Ph.D. in biotechnology from the University of African nation. I hope that the news is not true, otherwise Kuwait will Nevertheless, the source claimed that the campaign will continue in checkup? Cambridge in 2001, when she appeared in a documentary film become no different than countries ruled by dictatorships that order to help the Interior Ministry ‘deport’ Ethiopian housemaids once believe in collective punishment. their visas expire, and that “for the safety of citizens”, according to his sponsored by the office of the president of the United States pro- Crowded wards moting teaching science to youngsters, when she received the prize Furthermore, there was a recent case in which an Asian house- statements! of Makkah for science accomplishment in 2010, and when she maid is being held for questioning over accusations of throwing her And since the Interior Ministry is yet to deny that report, does this Prescribing medications is another story. Some appeared on the pages of Newsweek magazine. employer’s baby from the third floor. Is the Interior Ministry going to mean that it is true?! The problem or catastrophe is that a majority of patients are denied medications because they have to She has always been true to herself, to her beliefs, and it is truly ban recruiting domestic helpers from Asia if that maid was convicted around 80,000 Ethiopian workers in Kuwait are domestic workers, and wait a month or two before receiving the meds, according shameful for someone in her position to be the target for such too? There is no doubt that a large segment of domestic workers in are supposed to be supporting a similar number of families back in to what they are told by pharmacists at public medical unjustified attacks. Kuwait are subjected to inhumane treatment, either from official bod- their home countries. So is it humane to prevent this large number facilities. Meanwhile, some doctors ask patients to get the ies, recruitment offices or their employers. There are documented inci- from coming to Kuwait for work in the future? Why doesn’t the min- By the end of the day, it is the troubled social relationship medications they prescribe from pharmacies outside the dents of people who fell victim to human trade, such as a story of a istry leave it up to the employer himself? between men and women we have in our country that is promot- hospital. They even ‘recommend’ specific pharmacies to ing such attacks. It is only a part of our broader problem that is look- girl who thought that she came to Kuwait on a scholarship to study It is a very sensitive issue, and I do not mean to undermine the ing at everyone who is different than the way we perceive things Arabic, but discovered that she was brought through a domestic horrible crime committed recently or before by some Ethiopian go to! with a skeptical eye. And the reason we perceive things is nothing worker’s visa to work as a housemaid. domestic workers, but this should not motivate us to commit more During a recent visit to a patient in Mubarak Hospital, I but the outcome of our very narrow social and cultural circles. Meanwhile, a recent newspaper report quoting an unnamed horrible crimes against them. I do not have any personal relationship noticed patients on beds set up in the corridors. They were The incident of Dr. Sindi is a classical example of the vicious cir- source from the domestic workers’ department at the Interior Ministry with an Ethiopian citizen, but I do write this with hope to give this top- put there because all wards were full capacity at that time, cle of action and reaction we usually witness in our daily lives; she revealed an ongoing public campaign to ‘boycott Ethiopian house- ic the level of importance that it deserves. according to the doctors. Of course, what happens next in maids’, either by recruiting workers from other countries or return The start could be by transferring responsibility of domestic did something different, a group of people attacked her because of such cases is that a patient is prematurely discharged in those who are already hired back to the recruitment office. helpers from the Interior Ministry to the Ministry of Social Affairs and it, and then came a group to attack those who attacked her; we order to make room for another patient. That is not to men- usually end up forgetting the main topic that ignited the fire and The campaign, which was a reaction to the ‘series of crimes com- Labor. I am confident in the ability and courage of Deputy Prime tion private rooms that can only be obtained through vita- engage in pointless, goalless ideological struggles. It is truly amaz- mitted by Ethiopian domestic workers in recent years’, resulted in Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al-Khalid Al-Sabah ing that we purposely ignore a very simple, yet a universal, fact recruitment offices becoming ‘overcrowded’ with a large number of to make this critical decision, which further helps the Interior Ministry min ‘W’ (wasta or connections to get benefits or privileges about life; it is built upon differences, not similarities. Ethiopian maids who suddenly found themselves without a job, handle other more critical security responsibilities. —Al-Qabas that people cannot obtain under normal circumstances).
in my view How to handle oil-water nexus
By Alsir Sidahmed n addition to the conventional energy market linked,” said World Bank Group Vice President and issues, mainly oil, related to price and production, Special Envoy for Climate Change Rachel Kyte. “With Ithe industry seems to be gearing for a new worry demand rising for both resources and increasing - how to handle the oil-water nexus. challenges from climate change, water scarcity can A recent UN Water Day has a very simple message threaten the long-term viability of energy projects to deliver: Water needs energy and energy needs and hinder development.” water. The interdependencies between the two is To meet such challenge ideas are floating around strengthened and consolidated by the day. After all to identify synergies and exchange energy and water some 90 percent of power generation is water-inten- development plans, ensure cross-sectoral planning sive. to ensure sustainability for both water and energy in Using various parameters to look into the crystal terms of investments, in addition to coordination at ball, the world seems to be heading toward increas- decision-making level so as to come up with the ing its energy consumption by more than a third in desired outcome. only two decades. Such increase requires an addi- When the world managed to overcome the first tional increase of 85 percent of water consumption energy shock back in the 1970s many predicted according the consumers’ watch dog, the Paris-based that the scene was being prepared for water wars International Energy Agency (IEA). given the fact of growing population and that many With such increase comes completion for supplies rivers and water sources are crossing national bor- as the world population will top 9 billion people, ders with many disputes either taking place or are who need an additional 50 percent in agricultural in the offing. production. The pressure for Though that scenario did more supplies is not only not happen the way it was restricted to rural areas and Energy and particularly oil predicted, but the new agriculture, but the spread- emphasis on linkage ing urbanization - where five got the description as a between water and energy billion people expected to will revive the old interest be living in cities, towns and strategic commodity given and try to sort out some urban centers by 2030 - will its inseparable link to politics solutions that ought to be add to pressure to provide based on more rationale water to cater for their needs and security. Water can get than sensationalism. in food and energy supplies. more attention from leaders The first energy shock These future figures could brought with it too pes- easily be justified by the fact and rank and files alike. simistic scenarios, including that currently some 8 per- the Peak Oil theory that the cent of global energy supply After all, it is the source of life. world oil production has is consumed to meet pump- reached its peak and it has ing, treatment and trans- only one way to go - decline portation of water from one place to another. The at the time population growth and urbanization will unconventional energy source like sand oil in require more energy. Canada and fracking in the United States are both However, over time that prediction proved to be water intensive operations. simplistic and that there are more energy resources Moreover, removing water from its source, or that needs investments and technology to tap. The ground water abstraction, is believed to be increas- same could apply to water issues, where more inno- ing by 1-2 percent per annum. In addition, an esti- vative policies and administrative techniques are to mated 20 percent of the world’s aquifers are desig- be applied, in addition to rationalization of water use nated as over exploited. And that is why by 2035 the as in the case with energy. Such efforts can be pro- IEA thinks the world will increase its water consump- ductive if water-energy nexus is put under the spot- tion by 85 percent. light so as to allow for more serious debate and According to the World Bank, last year saw some exchange of ideas. troubling signs related to water shortage where ther- Energy and particularly oil got the description as a mal plants were closed down in India and power pro- strategic commodity given its inseparable link to pol- duction declined in the United States, while in China, itics and security. Water can get more attention from Sri Lanka and Brazil hydropower plants were threat- leaders and rank and files alike. After all, it is the ened. source of life. People can adjust their lives to reduced “The world’s energy and water are inextricably or no oil supplies, but can’t do that with water. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 LOCAL Gulf Bank sponsors Kuwait keeping abreast basketball charity game KUWAIT: Gulf Bank has announced of the latest on autism that it is to sponsor the Q8hoops Basketball Charity Game to help raise awareness about Autism in Kuwait. The event will take place on April 26 at No real ‘cure’ to date the Kuwait Basketball Arena in Kaifan KUWAIT: Kuwait is marking World Autism between 10 am - 1 pm. The one day Awareness Day today and has more than charity game will include all the bas- many to boast of in terms of care provided to ketball players of the Kuwait Center the autistic and their families and loved ones. for Autism. Kuwait Center for Autism was founded in Gulf Bank is supporting this cause 1994 as a Waqf project by Kuwait Public to encourage wider community Awqaf Foundation, with both the Ministry of understanding of Autism and what it Education and individual philanthropists pitching in later on to furbish the center and really means to children, young peo- improve its services. The center was the first ple and their families. This initiative is specialized institution in this field in the Arab intended to help raise awareness of World. Autism as a major public health issue The center’s activities and services span in support of World Autism Awareness Q8Hoops is a basketball-based beyond Kuwait to the Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab countries. It is the meeting Day, which is marked on April 2, and project that offers a variety of services as part of Autism Awareness Month, place and organizer of gatherings of special- such as basketball skills development, ists, researchers and training courses, and which is recognized around the world personal basketball training, group by holding events during the month boasts of the first ISO awards for institutions basketball training, basketball events in this field in the Middle East. of April. and camps. Based in Kuwait and Through efforts of Dr Samira Abdulatief Al- World Autism Awareness Day was established in 2011, the main goal of Saad, Director of Kuwait Center for Autism, created to focus public attention on Q8Hoops is to provide the latest and the Gulf Autism Association was later estab- Autism as a growing global health cri- most advanced basketball skills train- lished as well as the Arab Autism Network. sis. Gulf Bank is committed to sup- ing, strength and conditioning, injury The center organized a diploma program on autism in cooperation with the University of porting this cause, not just by helping reduction, nutrition tips, and drills to London in 2000 and 2003. It also hosted the children with Autism and their fami- aid players in increasing their basket- lies, but also by encouraging greater first Middle East international conference on ball potential. Q8Hoops organizers autism and social interaction imparities in understanding of Autism, with the attended various basketball skills and belief that educating the community 2000, among other achievements. conditioning camps and training in The activities and quality of service earned ultimately helps society provide the United States and learned from the center many awards and great recogni- greater support and understanding. the best in the game. tion. It obtained an ISO certificate, won a Philip Morris award in 2003, was granted a Jean Amos Comenius (UNESCO) award in 2009, and also won an EU prize in 2012. As for start of services to this group in Al-Ajmi highlights Kuwait, it was with one classroom for autistic KUWAIT: Naif Al-Mutairi honoring Muna Al-Ansari during one of the functions hosted by children at the home of a parent of such child the Kuwait Autism Centre in Kuwait. role of Quran in 1985. Another lady, Muneera Al-Mutawwa, later worked on opening a classroom for classroom became Jeddah Autism Center. Research suggests genetic as well as envi- autistic children at the Kuwait Society for the According to the American Psychiatric ronmental factors which contribute to autism. studies centers Disabled. Association, “Autism is a disorder of neural But though there are means to accurately Asrar Al-Qabandi for her part established a development characterized by impaired social diagnose a child, there is no real “cure” to date, KUWAIT: Opening here yesterday an the lives of people. child care center for children with special interaction and verbal and non-verbal com- only means to help some of the patients per- annual forum organized by the Ministry He further praised the given that the needs, which later grew into Khalifah School munication, and by restricted, repetitive or form better within their immediate society. of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Minister of Holy Quran poses a rich resource from after the liberation of Kuwait in 1991. stereotyped behavior. The diagnostic criteria Response to treatment and rehabilitation Justice Dr. Nayef Al-Ajmi extoled the which researchers and scholars can eas- And even during the Iraqi occupation of requires that symptoms become apparent depends largely on the level of complication role undertaken by Quran studies cen- ily draw material to teach the younger 1990, Dr. Al-Saad supervised a classroom for before a child is three years old.” of a child’s condition and timely access to spe- ters to propagate wholesome messages generation about the lofty values of five autistic Kuwaiti children in her home in Parents usually notice signs in the first two cialized care. on tolerance and amity among the Islam. On his part, the Ministry of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The class was later on years of their child’s life. The signs usually One of every 150 children is diagnosed human race. Awqaf’s undersecretary Dr. Adel Al- brought under the care and support of Al- develop gradually, but some autistic children with autism, and the number is higher at one He appreciated the cooperation Falah said that the ministry was keen Faisalya Women’s Welfare society, the king- first develop more normally and then in every 94 male children. The disorder is the between these centers and the Ministry on organizing and participating in such dom’s most active women group. regress.Early behavioral, cognitive, or speech fastest growing disability worldwide, with of Awqaf in spreading the good word forums which use different themes Princess Fahda bint Saud Al-Saud, society interventions can help autistic children gain more patients than those with cancer, AIDS, or on applying the principles of Islam into every year. —- KUNA chairwoman, then took a step further and the self-care, social, and communication skills. other diseases. —- KUNA WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 LOCAL
Kuwaiti-Cambodian meeting promotes bilateral trade Painter in custody for KUALA LAMPUR: The Kuwaiti- He said that KFAED representative Cambodian Committee discussed in its gave a thorough report in the meeting meeting yesterday in the Cambodian on the fund’s financing activities in rape in Al-Salam area capital city Phnom Penh means of Cambodia, adding that the Public boosting bilateral trade including clos- Authority for Investment presented in er ties between the two nation’s pri- the meeting a memorandum of under- vate sectors, said Kuwait’s ambassador standing on bilateral cooperation on Employee hurt in botched armed robbery to Cambodia Dhirar Al-Twaijri. joint investments. The Kuwaiti side also KUWAIT: Detectives arrested a painter accused of pany’s office in the same building and often sleeps Representing the Kuwaiti side of the discussed with the Cambodians a pro- raping a woman in Al-Salam area Sunday night. A at the office after work. On the day of the incident, meeting in Phnon Penh were posal calling for prevention of double Kuwaiti man told police that the suspect raped his three men broke into the compound before the Work of emerging Undersecretary of the Ministry of taxation. 20-year-old wife inside their apartment. He added Fajr (dawn) prayer, and tried to break the office’s Commerce and Industry Abdul-Aziz Al- The ambassador further said that that the Egyptian man came over to inspect the door open. He jumped from the window in a bid to Kuwaiti artist to Khaldi and representatives from the both sides agreed that a delegation apartment after he was called to paint the walls. save his life, which prompted the suspects to be showcased Kuwaiti Ministry of Finance, the Public from the Cambodian government Bayan and South Surra detectives worked together escape, according to the man. The suspects were Authority for Investment, and the presided by the minister of commerce and were able to identify the suspect and arrest masked, wore training suits and were armed with KUWAIT: An Amsterdam-based internation- Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic along with a number of businesspeo- him on Monday. Preliminary investigations indi- knives, according to the man’s testimony. al museum (Tropenmuesum) has chosen Development (KFAED), said the ambas- ple would visit Kuwait in the last quar- cate that the man assaulted the woman when she Investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest four art pieces from the emerging Kuwaiti sador. ter of the year 2015. — KUNA was choosing paint colors, taking advantage of the the suspects. photographer and artist Mohammed fact that they were left alone in the apartment. A Alkouh to be showcased permanently with- security source also revealed that the suspect was Cop’s car, gun stolen in its halls. planning to leave the country following his crime, A policewoman accused her ex-husband of “It’s a great honor and privilege to be KRCS distributes but police were able to catch him before he fled. stealing her car as well as her firearm that was left given this opportunity to represent my inside the vehicle. In her statement to Hawally country Kuwait in an international muse- Fugitive arrested for assault police, the woman said that her car disappeared um,” said Alkouh in an interview. aid for Typhoon A fugitive convict was arrested after he physi- from outside of her house and accused her Kuwaiti Alkouh added that it was such an excit- cally assaulted a man which helped police track ex-husband of stealing it. Investigations are ongo- ing experience to have a curator from the and locate him. Jahra police headed to a house in ing. museum visit Kuwait last week, during Haiyan victims Naseem where a Kuwaiti man reported that the which he saw the many scenes and build- suspect broke into his house and attacked his male Inmates fight ings Alkouh tried to document in his work. He continued to explain that his style KUALA LUMPUR: The field workers lowing natural and man-made disasters. servant. Police arrested the suspect who was kept Two inmates at the Central Prison face physical tries to mimic the era of the ‘golden age’ among the delegation of Kuwait Red His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah in the homeowner’s custody until police arrived. assault charges after they were accused in the bru- The suspect, a Kuwaiti man, reportedly blamed the tal beating of their cellmate. Jail officials gave Kuwait was enjoying during the sixties and Crescent Society (KRCS) to the Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah had seventies of the previous century, referring Philippines are about to distribute 10,000 announced $10 million in aid for the servant, an Asian national, of knowing someone police at the Sulaibiya police station a medical that robbed his camp. An identity check later report detailing the injuries that the inmate sus- to the style that uses old cameras and packages of aid supplies to alleviate the typhoon victims and KRCS was charged manual black and white printing on spe- suffering of the victims of Typhoon to oversee and manage distribution of revealed that the man was sentenced to 15 years tained, which included broken bones, a suspected in prison over three years ago for drug-related eardrum rupture and multiple contusions. The man cial silver-lining paper, then is colored Haiyan which hit the country in aid, and the first batch was distributed in charges. Police searched the man’s car at the said during questioning that two cellmates beat using classic and special paint by hand to November 2013, said the Kuwaiti December, 2013, the diplomat remarked. scene, and found drugs, cell phones and other him up violently over previous disputes. give it an “old and classic” feel. Ambassador here Walid Al-Kanderi, yes- Typhoon Haiyan, known locally as items. He was referred to the proper authorities. He further explained that this style took terday. Typhoon Yolanda, was a powerful tropi- Wife beater held for stabbing him more than three years of constant The ambassador noted this is the cal cyclone that devastated portions of Botched armed robbery A woman was hospitalized with stab wounds studying by reading and visiting the major team’s second visit, adding he and the Southeast Asia, particularly the A man was critically injured after he fell from which she said had sustained while defending cultural capitals of the world like Paris and aid workers met and discussed certain Philippines, on November 8, 2013. It is the third floor of an office while trying to escape herself from her husband’s attack. Police were Rome to research the history and methods aspects of cooperation with the the deadliest Philippine typhoon on an armed robbery. An ambulance accompanied by called to the Jahra Hospital after the woman of this style. Philippines’ Ministry of Social Welfare record, killing at least 6,268 people in police were dispatched to a commercial com- arrived with serious hand injuries. The woman told Alkouh also said that the museum was and Development to make sure their that country alone. Haiyan is also the pound in Farwaniya Monday at dawn in response doctors that her husband attacked her with a first introduced to his work through his mission runs smoothly and swiftly. strongest storm recorded at landfall, and to an emergency call, which reported the discov- knife following a domestic dispute, and that she blog on the internet after which they con- “Two more shipments of aid supplies unofficially the strongest typhoon ever ery of a dead body. Paramedics found the man received the wounds when she used her hands to tacted him asking for his work to be show- are expected in April, coming by sea,” he recorded in terms of wind speed. As of alive and sent him to Farwaniya Hospital where he cover herself. Police summoned the husband who cased permanently among an expedition said adding, “Kuwait is always keen to January 2014, bodies were still being was admitted to the intensive care unit. Police confirmed beating his wife, but denied attacking dedicated to that era of time of the many cultures and countries of the world. —- AP lend a helping hand to those in need fol- found. —- KUNA questioned the Egyptian man after his condition her with a knife. He remains in custody pending stabilized. He said that he works at a trading com- investigations. KES hosts patriotic operetta
A folkloric dance.
Sheikh Ali Al-Jaber Al-Ahmad, Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud Minister Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud (fourth from right) with other guests.
School students performing in the operetta. Shadi Al-Khaleej singing. — Photos by Joseph Shagra Sheikha Naeema Al-Ahmad Sheikha Fareeha Al-Ahmad with the audience. KUWAIT: Kuwait English School celebrated its 35th Duaij, Sheikha Fareeha Al-Ahmad, Sheikha Naeema Al- which expressed a sense of patriotism, and support for to this issue. anniversary, which coincided with Kuwait’s celebration of Ahmad, former miniser Salem Al-Athaina along with other youth who are given special attention by HH the Amir and He said the operete is an expression of the loving feel- its national days, with an operetta called “Kuwait Remain”. guests. The operetta was performed by Shadi Al-Khaleej HH the Crown Prince. He also thanked the school owner ings of those in the school, for this country and appreciat- The event was attended by Information Minister, State who sang patriotic songs with which the audience inter- Mohammad Al-Saddah for the event. ed the patronage and presence of Sheikh Salman Al- Minister for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem acted. Meanwhile, Al-Saddah said the school is keen on pro- Sabah. The operetta included 11 various songs, with out- Al-Humoud Al-Sabah, Asima Gvoernor Sheikh Ali Jaber Al- Information Minister and State Minister for Youth moting the patriotic spirit and loyalty to the country. He standing performance. They all spoke about Kuwait of the Ahmad Al-Sabah, Ahamdi Governor Sheikh Dr Ibrahim Al- Affairs Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah commended the operetta spoke about the schools many activities that are related past, present and future. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Syrian boys are breadwinners as parents struggle in Turkey Malaysian credibility in jet hunt challenged again Page 8 PAGE 12
BRUSSELS: John Kerry, William Hague, Andrii Deshchytsya, Anders Fogh Rasmussen British Foreign Minister William Hague, rear left, sits next to US Secretary of State John Kerry as they attend a NATO-Ukraine Commission meeting at NATO Headquarters in Brussels yesterday. At center sits Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Deshchytsia, next to NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen, center right. — AP NATO to bolster forces in east Europe No sign of Russia pullout from Ukrainian border
BRUSSELS: NATO studied new steps to bolster its military has said the country’s new pro-Western leadership is not Prime Minister Donald Tusk said yesterday that the pace The Russian forces included mechanized infantry, presence in eastern Europe yesterday while saying it saw seeking membership of NATO, but NATO is expected to at which NATO was increasing its military presence in armored units, Special Forces, logistics units and “fairly no sign that Russia was withdrawing tens of thousands of step up cooperation with Ukraine’s armed forces by train- Poland was unsatisfactory. Polish Foreign Minister substantial numbers” of planes and helicopters, the official troops from the Ukrainian border. Foreign ministers from ing officers, holding joint exercises and promoting reforms. Radoslaw Sikorski, who said earlier he would be satisfied if said. There was also little evidence that the troops were the 28 members of the Western military alliance met in The United States and its allies have made clear they have NATO located two heavy brigades in Poland, said on arrival there for training, the official said. There were some exer- Brussels for the first time since Russia’s military occupation no military plans to defend Ukraine, which is not a NATO at the NATO meeting that he would welcome any NATO cises but other units were moving to a location and staying and annexation of Ukraine’s Crimea region triggered the member, but they have assured allies in eastern Europe, forces being stationed there. A NATO military official, put. “It’s an indication of troops given orders to deploy worst East-West crisis since the Cold War. which joined NATO in the last 15 years after the collapse of speaking on condition of anonymity, said Russia still had somewhere and awaiting further orders,” he said. The They were discussing ways to boost NATO’s military the Soviet Union, that they will be protected. some 35,000-40,000 troops stationed near the Ukraine bor- Russian forces did not pose a threat to NATO countries but presence in former communist central and eastern Europe der and that there was no sign of any significant reduction. could pose a threat to Ukraine, the official said.— Reuters to reassure allies rattled by Russia’s moves. They will also All options step up cooperation with Ukraine and decide whether to Diplomats said the ministers would consider options cut the alliance’s relations with Moscow beyond the steps ranging from stepped-up military exercises and temporari- it has already taken, which include halting lower-level ly sending more forces to eastern member states to the meetings with Russian counterparts. permanent basing of alliance forces in those countries - a Calling Russia’s actions unacceptable, NATO chief step Moscow would view as provocative. Rasmussen said Anders Fogh Rasmussen said: “Through its actions, Russia NATO was “considering all options” to enhance its defenses. has undermined the principles on which our partnership is The United States and other NATO allies have already built, and has breached its own international commit- responded to the crisis by offering more planes to take ments. So we cannot go on doing business as usual.” part in regular NATO air patrols over the Baltic States. The Russian President Vladimir Putin told Germany’s Angela United States has beefed up a previously planned training Merkel in a phone call on Monday he had ordered a partial exercise with the Polish air force. withdrawal of Russian troops from the eastern Ukrainian In another sign of NATO support, Romanian President border, the German chancellor’s spokesman said. But Traian Basescu said the United States has asked to boost Rasmussen said NATO saw no sign of this. “Unfortunately, I the number of troops and aircraft it has stationed at an air- cannot confirm that Russia is withdrawing its troops. This is base in his country. NATO allies differ on how aggressively not what we are seeing,” he told reporters. they should ramp up forces in eastern Europe in response As NATO ministers met, Russia warned Ukraine against to Russia’s actions with eastern European states keen for integration with NATO, saying Kiev’s previous attempts to more NATO support while Western European countries, move closer to the defense alliance had had unwelcome further away from Russia, are wary of antagonizing consequences. Ukraine’s Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk Moscow. Protests erupt in Turkey as opposition cries foul
ANKARA: Riot police fired water cannon in Ankara yester- balcony of the AKP headquarters as fireworks lit the mid- day to disperse thousands of Turks demanding a partial night sky. recount in national polls that saw Prime Minister Tayyip The result was a bitter disappointment for the CHP, Erdogan’s ruling party sweep the electoral map. The despite the rise in its share of the national vote. The party Islamist-rooted AK Party kept control of the two biggest failed to shrug off its image as a bastion of the secularist cities, the financial centre Istanbul and the capital Ankara, elite, aloof from the realities of life for the majority in this and increased its share of the national vote in Sunday’s socially conservative nation of 77 million people. The CHP is municipal elections despite a corruption scandal dogging challenging the result in Ankara and in the southern coastal Erdogan’s government. city of Antalya, traditionally a CHP stronghold that fell to The opposition said it would contest some of the the AKP. Sarigul also called for a recount in Istanbul, while results. The crowd, calling for a recount of the Ankara result the CHP’s Ankara mayoral candidate, Mansur Yavas, said his which was particularly close, gathered in front of the party would go to the constitutional court if necessary. Supreme Electoral Council (YSK) chanting “Thief Tayyip!” and “YSK, the people are with you!” before the riot police Clashes in southeast moved in. No official results have yet been announced, but Despite a turbulent political past, previous elections in the tally published by Turkish media put the AK Party on Turkey have been largely seen as free and fair. The vote in around 44 percent of the nationwide vote to 26-28 percent southeastern Turkey, where a ceasefire has been holding for the opposition CHP. since last year as part of an effort to end a three-decade The election in NATO’s only predominantly Muslim state insurgency by Kurdish militants, was marred by isolated vio- took place amid a fierce power struggle between Erdogan lence. The pro-Kurdish BDP extended its control of and US-based Islamic cleric Fethullah Gulen, whom he provinces in the region, according to unofficial results. Eight accuses of pursuing a dirty campaign of anonymous post- people were killed in two separate shoot-outs in villages in ings of audio recordings that implicate the prime minister the southeastern provinces of Hatay and Sanliurfa near the in graft. Erdogan denies corruption, just as Gulen denies Syrian border on the day of the vote itself during clashes any role in the recordings obtained from secret govern- between supporters of rival candidates for local office. ment communications. Riot police fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse Opposition supporters, many of them students who protesters outside local government offices in the south- answered calls on social media, packed the basement of eastern district of Ceylanpinar near the Syrian border yes- the main opposition CHP headquarters, working shifts terday after results there showed an AKP victory, security through the night as they searched results sheets for sources said. The clashes were sparked by rumors of fraud, signs of fraud. “Whatever the election results are, it will including the burning of ballot slips, according to Hurriyet. unfortunately go down in the history of our democracy The pro-Kurdish BDP party was challenging the result. The as a dubious election,” the CHP’s defeated mayoral candi- newspaper meanwhile said ballots stamped with votes for date in Istanbul, Mustafa Sarigul, told a news conference. the CHP and the nationalist MHP party had been found in “The theft of a single vote is a black mark for democracy.” rubbish bags at six schools in a district won by the AKP in Erdogan, flanked by his family, gave a victory speech to the otherwise MHP-dominated southern province of thousands of cheering supporters on Sunday from the Osmaniye.— Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 INTERNATIONAL Vandals spray hate graffiti on convent in Israel
JERUSALEM: Vandals sprayed anti- The Our Lady, Queen of Palestine Moshe Dadon, head of the local torching of the door of a Trappist nantly ultra-Orthodox Jewish neigh- Christian graffiti on the walls of a con- convent, which was founded before council for the rural district in which monastery in Latrun, about 10 kilome- bourhood adjoining Tel Aviv. vent west of Jerusalem overnight and the creation of Israel in 1948, is dedi- the convent is located, said he was not tres (six miles) from the scene of the “Price tag” attacks normally target damaged vehicles parked nearby, cated to the Virgin Mary. persuaded that the vandalism was the latest attack. Palestinians and Arabs and tend to Israeli police said yesterday. The vandals also slashed the tyres work of hardline settlers. In the 2012 attack, the arsonists involve acts of vandalism against cars, Slogans including “Mary is a cow,” of five vehicles parked in the com- “It’s unusual, usually they strike at scrawled “Jesus is a monkey” on a mosques or olive groves. But over the “price tag” and “America (is) Nazi pound, Samri added. Arabs, not monasteries,” Dadon told nearby wall in an incident that past few years, the attacks have Germany” were sprayed in Hebrew on The term “price tag” is usually army radio. “It’s quite strange that a shocked the religious and political widened in scope to include Christian the walls of the Roman Catholic sanc- applied to politically motivated convent has been the target in this establishment. churches and graveyards, anti-settle- tuary, police spokeswoman Luba attacks by hardline Jewish settlers on incident.” Last July, two suspects were One of the suspects was a settler ment activists and even, on occasion, Samri said. Palestinians or their property. arrested in connection with the 2012 and the other a resident of a predomi- the Israeli army.— AFP Kerry meets Netanyahu in effort to prolong talks Deal to free Israeli spy could lead to peace talks extension
JERUSALEM: US Secretary of State John Kerry met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the second time in less than 12 hours yester- day in an effort salvage stalled peace talks with the Palestinians. Kerry broke into his travel schedule on Monday for a flying visit to Jerusalem and head- ed straight back to Europe after his early morn- ing discussions with Netanyahu. There was no immediate word of any breakthrough and a Palestinian official said Kerry might return to the region late on Wednesday to see Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. TRIPOLI: Libyans hold placards during a protest outside the office of the prosecutor The negotiations appeared on the brink of general yesterday in Tripoli after he decided on the release of the three Libyans who collapse at the weekend, when Israel failed to took control of a tanker illegally loaded with oil under a deal with rebels blockading press ahead with a promised release of several terminals. Last month, the “Morning Glory” evaded the Libyan Navy off Al-Sidra — dozen Palestinian prisoners. controlled by rebels seeking autonomy from Tripoli — after reportedly being loaded Israel wanted assurances the Palestinians with some 234,000 barrels of crude. — AFP would not abandon the talks, aimed at ending the decades-old Middle East conflict, when an initial deadline for an accord expires on April 29. Libya frees 3 nationals it US officials have said that a deal allowing negoti- ations to continue could include the release of seized on rogue oil tanker Jonathan Pollard, who has spent more than 25 years in an American jail after being convicted of TRIPOLI: Three Libyans who took control case. Members of the prosecutor’s office spying for Israel. of a tanker illegally loaded with oil have said the releases came under pressure from A freeze on construction in Israeli settlements been freed under a deal with rebels authorities, who have been working to find in the occupied West Bank, land Palestinians want with the Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem for blockading terminals, the official news a compromise to allow for a reopening of TEL AVIV: US Secretary of State John Kerry says goodbye to US Ambassador to Israel Daniel a future state, was also being discussed, officials agency Lana reported yesterday. oil terminals blockaded by rebels. Shapiro, left, as he leaves Tel Aviv, Israel yesterday, continuing on to NATO meetings in said. Sources close to the talks, who declined to “The prosecutor general has decided on The move came as government and Brussels after meeting in Israel with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the be identified, said that under the proposed the release of the three accused who rebel sources said a deal appeared to be Middle East peace process talks. — AP forced the captain and the crew of the imminent. The weak Tripoli government’s arrangement, Pollard would be freed before the tanker to enter Al-Sidra port and to steal failure to stop the Morning Glory plunged Jewish holiday of Passover, which begins in two officials said no decision on his release has yet “murderers”. Palestinians regard brethren jailed Libyan oil,” it said. Libya into one of its biggest crises since weeks’ time. been made. by Israel as heroes in a quest for an independent Last month, the “Morning Glory” evaded Moamer Kadhafi was toppled by a NATO- Israel, they said, would go ahead with the Pollard, a US citizen who was granted Israeli state. Israel views them as terrorists. the Libyan navy off Al-Sidra-controlled by backed uprising in 2011. promised release of a fourth group of citizenship in 1995, is due for parole next year Kerry, who has visited the region more than rebels seeking autonomy from Tripoli-after The ship’s escape after authorities had Palestinians, the last among the 104 it pledged and his early return could provide Netanyahu 10 times in little more than a year as he strives to reportedly being loaded with some repeatedly vowed to take all measures to to free as a confidence building measure under with the leeway he may need to convince coali- secure a peace deal, held talks separately upon 234,000 barrels of crude. stop it underscored the weakness of the an agreement that led to the renewal of the talks tion hardliners who object to the release of more his arrival in Jerusalem with Netanyahu and with On March 17, the US Navy intercepted central government, which has struggled in July. Palestinian prisoners. Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat. and boarded the tanker in the eastern to rein in heavily armed former rebels. A source said Kerry wanted Netanyahu to call However, Israeli Housing Minister Uri Ariel The focus of his mission appeared to have Mediterranean and escorted it back to Rebels pressing for autonomy for Libya’s a cabinet meeting yesterday to sign off on the said yesterday he would oppose any such shifted from reaching an elusive framework Libya. The three Libyans and 21-member eastern Cyrenaica region-epicentre of the proposed deal. Israeli officials declined to com- accord, telling Army Radio that Pollard himself agreement by April 29, including general princi- crew of various other nationalities on the revolt against Kadhafi-have been blockad- ment. was against being part of a prisoner exchange. ples for a final peace accord, to simply keeping Egyptian-owned vessel were handed over ing oil terminals in the east since July. “I was personally told he is against being both sides talking beyond that previously set to police. There was no immediate word on That has led to a decline in exports from Pollard doubts released in such a disgraceful deal,” said Ariel, a deadline. the fate of the crew but they were also 1.5 million barrels a day to just 250,000. The US intelligence agencies have long opposed member of the nationalist Jewish Home party, Kerry is due in Brussels today for a NATO min- expected to go free. The release of the Morning Glory was originally a North any early release of Pollard, who pleaded guilty arguing that Pollard deserved unconditional isterial meeting that will focus on Ukraine and Libyans stirred protests from lawyers and Korean-flagged ship, but Pyongyang said it in 1987 to charges of spying for Israel and U.S. freedom and not to be swapped for Palestinian Afghanistan. — Reuters magistrates, who demonstrated outside had “cancelled and deleted” its registry on the prosecutor general’s office yesterday the grounds it was carrying contraband against alleged political interference in the material. — AFP Syrian children are breadwinners as parents struggle in Turkey
KILIS: The busy market district of Kilis in south- cern echoed by middle-class Syrian mothers east Turkey is full of Syrian refugee children, among the refugees. repairing household goods, serving baklava He works alongside 13-year-old Hassan, who and selling jewellery to become the main is from an educated family and has become a breadwinner of their families because their par- whiz at Photoshop in the studio. Hassan’s father ents struggle to find jobs. is a teacher and his mother Najla was a women’s The civil war in neighbouring Syria has killed activist in the southern Syrian town of Deraa, more than 140,000 people and driven 2.5 mil- near the Jordanian border, where the popular lion abroad, at least 700,000 of whom have uprising against Syrian President Bashar al- been formally registered in Turkey under its Assad took shape in March 2011. “open door” policy reflecting support for the Hassan’s family fled after some of Najda’s Syrian uprising. friends and fellow protesters were imprisoned. But the total number of Syrians in Turkey is Najla said she sends Hassan, who is neatly believed to be much higher and the influx has dressed and softly spoken, to work after school transformed the southern borderlands, with to keep him out of trouble. many Syrian grocery shops selling all their “The environment here is different,” Hassan home brands and property prices sky-rocketing. said with his eyes down. “Sure, I’ve made some It has also put a strain on the local education friends but I have made more enemies,” alluding system with Syrian parents complaining that to tension and bullying among different group- schools cannot take any more students. ings of refugees. More than 220,000 Syrians are living in NAJAF: Vehicles drive past campaign posters on billboards in the holy Shiite Muslim shrine city of Najaf, in central Iraq, yesterday. Campaigning Turkish camps but the vast majority live outside Children boost gold trade for Iraq’s April 30 general election opened with Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki bidding for a third term as his government grapples with the them, without official permission to work. But At one gleaming window in a covered lane country’s worst bloodshed in years. — AFP they do not have to heed camp curfews and so of gold jewellery shops, Yehya’s 17-year-old some manage to land informal jobs on farms or brother Mahamet has learned enough Turkish Campaigning begins as posters adorn Baghdad construction sites, commonly accepting lower to serve as translator for Arabic-speaking shop- wages than Turkish counterparts. pers. His boss Seyfettin Koseouglu said thanks Only 14 percent of Syrian children living out- to Syrian refugees, his sales have doubled in the BAGHDAD: Campaigning for Iraq’s April 30 gen- ple, are those that depict tribes voicing their ed by a relatively new political party that has side the camps go to school, according to last two years. eral election opened yesterday, with Prime pride over one of their members running for par- made inroads in recent polls. Turkey’s Disaster and Emergency Management “In the first year they didn’t really know what Minister Nuri al-Maliki bidding for a third term as liament, while others attempt to link would-be Despite optimism the polls could break a Directorate (AFAD), with the majority taking up to do. But since then, Syrian families often have his government grapples with the country’s lawmakers with political leaders such as Maliki. long-standing political deadlock in the fractious work, however minimally paid, to help sustain six or seven children that go out to work. That worst bloodshed in years. “We started putting up our posters in crowd- national unity government, many voters have their families. could be an income of 50 lira for each of them a Posters went up around Baghdad and across ed areas of Baghdad, and in places we know expressed cynicism and expect little to change. Yehya, a 12-year-old Syrian boy from Azaz, a week,” he said with a grin outside his shop win- the country as candidates vie for one of 328 par- many people live and pass through,” said Munaf “There are new faces, but these are the same town near Syria’s northern frontier with Turkey, dow. “Turks who make money save it, but liamentary seats. No single party is expected to al-Haidari, running in the election for a break- old blocs,” said Mazin Rumayadh, a 26-year-old works in a photography studio in a dilapidated Syrians - they spend it on gold!” he added, pat- win an absolute majority and previous elections away offshoot of the premier’s party. employee of a Baghdad-based food wholesaler. mall around the corner from a string of gold ting the head of 13-year-old Abdulrahman, have seen lengthy periods of government for- “We have divided Baghdad into different “There is no need for them to fill the streets shops in the market district. another Syrian boy he employs who has quickly mation. areas, and we are targeting the areas where we with posters-they are only making the streets He runs memory cards and photos to and mastered Turkish. Though not officially confirmed, the vote have the most supporters,” Haidari said. dirty and causing traffic jams.” from the printers for a weekly wage of 35 lira Abdulrahman says all his siblings are trying appears unlikely to take place throughout parts Maliki’s State of Law Alliance is widely seen as The elections come with violence in Iraq at its ($16) - having just got a pay rise. to work but if he were in Syria, he would be hav- of the western desert province of Anbar, which the front-runner to secure the largest single highest level since 2008, when the country was He said he missed school in Syria, where reli- ing a more normal life going to school, where has been wracked by violence since the begin- number of seats in the polls, Iraq’s first since just emerging from a brutal sectarian war that gion was his favourite subject because “it teach- Arabic was his favourite subject. ning of the year, with militants holding control March 2010. But the bloc will encounter stiff left tens of thousands dead. Analysts and diplo- es us how to live right”, but he had little choice It is mandatory to finish secondary school in of an entire town on Baghdad’s doorstep. competition in its traditional Shiite-dominated mats have voiced fears that militants could try to but to take up any work available. Turkey, normally at the age of 17. This is a legal Iraqi voters have a laundry list of complaints, heartland of south Iraq from the Citizens list, a further up the pace of attacks in a bid to derail “My father worked for a couple of days (as a grey area for Syrians as they are classified mere- ranging from lengthy power cuts and poor run- formerly powerful group seen as close to Iran, the elections. security guard) but now he has no job,” he said ly as “guests” by the Turkish state, but few peo- ning water and sewerage to rampant corruption and the Ahrar party that was until recently Sunni militants, who regard the Shiite-led shyly. “We are five boys and two girls and four of ple are willing to acknowledge children are and high levels of unemployment, to say noth- linked to Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr. government as illegitimate and allied with Iran, us work, to support our family.” working. While Syrian children in the Kilis mar- ing of near-daily attacks that have killed more In the Sunni-majority west and north, a vari- are often blamed for violence in Iraq. The elec- Yehya complained that there is no space for ket serve their customers with smiles and feel than 2,200 people this year. ety of Sunni blocs are expected to compete for tions were briefly thrown into disarray by the him at Turkish schools and he did not know if gratitude towards their Turkish bosses, they But elections in Iraq are rarely fought over votes including those led by Iraq’s parliament mass resignation of the election commission, qualifications at Turkey’s 80 or so Syrian schools, remember their lives in pre-war Syria with sad- political issues, with parties instead appealing to speaker and a deputy prime minister respective- which blamed political and judicial interfer- concentrated in Istanbul and the southeast, ness. “Whatever life is like here, Syria is our voters along sectarian, ethnic or tribal lines. ly. And in the autonomous northern Kurdish ence, but the resignations were withdrawn would count for anything in the future, a con- country,” Yehya said. —Reuters Among the posters already erected, for exam- region, a historic duopoly could be further dent- within a week. —AFP INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
20 years on, Rwanda’s genocide generation still press for justice
KIGALI: In an almost empty courtroom in changed their appearances and identities A generation being judged Back at the courthouse, Mukurarinda ties ever occurring again. Rwanda’s capital Kigali, Leon Mugesera will be called to account. In many of the genocide memorial sites says that hearing the recollections of wit- “Even now, 20 years later, the problems stands trial, accused of whipping up a The United Nations International across Rwanda, heaps of clothes fill nesses-some of whom testify anonymous- of the genocide are still here, but we have storm of violence against the ethnic Tutsi Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, set up in churches where thousands of people hid ly for fear of reprisals from community a good basis for going forward thanks to group two decades ago with hate speech 1994 in neighbouring Tanzania to try the from attackers who blasted holes through members-is exhausting, but adds that the the trials in Arusha, of Gacaca and right including calls to exterminate ‘cockroach- alleged masterminds behind the geno- walls or crowbarred through windows to process must go on to avoid such atroci- here,” he says. — AFP es’. More than 800,000 people died over cide, only got round to hearing about 60 get to their victims. 100 days in a 1994 genocide that investi- cases. Identity cards, jewellery and chipped gations have shown the country’s leaders Over the course of 10 years, almost two glasses are displayed alongside rows of from the majority Hutu ethnic group million others passed through traditional skulls and neat lines of leg bones that belie planned and used militias to execute. village courts, called “gacaca”, meaning to the raw anger of the events of twenty “It doesn’t matter whether it takes 10 sit and discuss, whereby attackers faced years ago. or 20 years. We have to find out what hap- their victims. At the Kigali Genocide Memorial pened,” says prosecutor Alain Mukurarinda Human rights groups have cast serious Centre-the site of a mass grave for 250,000 of Mugesera’s case, which was transferred doubts over the fairness of these trials, people-the old photographs of genocide from Canada to Rwanda. “First and fore- which used judges elected from local victims posing for family portraits, on their most, the most important thing is that the communities that often had no legal back- wedding day or watching their children judgement is passed where the offences ground. Today the records of these trials, grow up, fill the walls. took place, so that the people here under- which include admissions to the most Their ripped and soiled clothes hang stand that Rwanda will not allow the per- heinous of crimes, heartfelt apologies and eerily from wires and their relatives, neigh- petrators to escape justice.” options for redress, are under threat. bours and friends speak of the indescrib- On April 7, Rwanda will commemorate They are documented in films, photos able horrors that they witnessed from the 20th anniversary of the start of the and files stuffed into 18,000 boxes that video screens. genocidal slaughter. And two decades on, now sit in police headquarters, while the Viewing the scene are groups of Rwanda is still recording every single government looks for backers to help digi- Rwandan schoolchildren wearing high nugget of information in a bid to make tise Rwanda’s history before it is con- socks and taking notes on a history they sure that the horrors are accounted for, sumed by humidity, theft, insects or fire. never experienced firsthand. “A generation recorded and never forgotten. “We have to preserve all those docu- is currently being judged for the crimes “I’m not worried about this taking too ments because the information we have is they committed in 1994 in Rwanda. But NIASHISHI TUTSIS REFUGEES CAMP: This picture taken on April 30, 1994 shows long, as there are ways to make sure that so important for history, memory, educa- after another 50 years, we’ll have another two French soldiers stand guard at the Niashishi Tutsis refugees camp. On April all the information gathered is legally tion and research,” says Jean-Damascene generation that will need to learn from the 7, 2014 Rwanda will commemorate the 20th anniversary of the start of the admissible,” says Mukurarinda. He is cer- Gasanabo, director general of The experience that happened to their parents, genocidal slaughter. More than 800,000 people died over 100 days in a 1994 tain that with these documents, even Research and Documentation Centre on their grandparents, criminals and sur- genocide that investigations have shown the country’s leaders from the majori- those “genocidaires” who have fled and Genocide. vivors,” says centre director Honore Gatera. ty Hutu ethnic group planned and used militias to execute. — AFP US landslide towns divided by mud, united by grief Deadly landslides in US history
ARLINGTON: “We’re still in shock, really,” says Ben Sullivan. in the region, close enough to the US border that you can becoming increasingly difficult, and most people acknowl- As the likely death toll from the monster landslide in the pick up Canadian radio. “It could devastate it,” said Bea edge only bodies will now be found. “I wouldn’t say they’ve picture postcard valley town of Oso climbs into the Sullivan, packing up her baked-goods stall after a day of given up hope,” said Parris, but added: “It’s been more than a dozens, that’s a common feeling round here, more than a fund-raising with her brother on the green at the end of week now, the toll keeps going up, everybody knows in the week after the catastrophe. “We all know someone who Arlington’s main street. back of their mind that it’ now recovery and not rescue. died, or is still missing,” added Sullivan, who ran a bake sale “It hasn’t been doing very well, even before this hap- The official death toll rose to 24 on Monday, and is Sunday with his sister Bea next in nearby Arlington, to pened,” added Graber, noting that the 530 is a key transport expected to rise significantly, with 22 people still missing. raise funds for families of the victims. Heart-wrenching sto- route for loggers to and from the huge lumber mill in One recovery operations manager, Steve Harris, said ries of victims and survivors of the massive mudslide have Darrington. “That would be a disaster if the mill closed,” he Monday that four to six bodies were being recovered every emerged. said. day. One of the most tragic is that of Natasha Huestis, whose He also acknowledged that, because of the sheer force of four-month-old daughter Sanoah and mother, who was ‘Hold on to Hope’ the landslide, bodies were not always intact. “It’s very diffi- babysitting for the infant, died at home while she was out. At the Blue Bird Cafe, the front window is filled with a cult, in some of the finds that they’re making, to make iden- “I wanted to be a good mom, like my mom,” the 26-year- tied yellow ribbon with “Darrington” on one side, “Arlington” tification,” he said. “You had whole-sized cars compacted old told the local Herald newspaper at the weekend. on the other, and “Oso” in the middle, under the slogan down to the size of a refrigerator .. there was just an incredi- Pointing to a photo of her baby, she said: “Isn’t she beau- “Hold on to Hope.” Inside, its burly manager said that is ble amount of energy as the material came down.” — AFP tiful? She was just learning to roll. And she was teething, so DARRINGTON: Snow capped Cascade Mountain range is we were waiting for her first tooth.” seen above the fire station in Darrington, Washington, on Ironically, while the tragedy-one of the most deadly land- March 31. — AFP slides in US history-has united the community in grief, it has also physically divided folk in the valley from the two towns either side of it. That is because the vast slab of rain-soaked CIA misled public hillside crashed down on the main road between Arlington to the west and Darrington to the east, making it impassa- WASHINGTON: The CIA misled the government and ble since the March 22 disaster. the public about parts of its interrogation program for Before the landslide the trip was an easy 30 minutes on years, the Washington Post said yesterday, quoting a state route 530. Now the trip takes up to two hours around report by the Senate Intelligence Committee. smaller roads meandering into the Cascade Mountains. Specifically, the US agency hid details about the Darrington, set amid snow-capped peaks and surround- severity of its methods, overstated the significance of ed by the forests which supply the region’s logging industry, plots and prisoners and took credit for critical pieces of is an extra hour at least from Seattle, 60 miles (95 kilome- intelligence that detainees had in fact provided before ters) to the south. “We all have family and friends in Oso and they were subjected to harsh techniques, the Post said, down in Arlington,” said Pam, who would only give her first quoting officials who have seen the 6,300-page report. name, after shopping at the nearby Darrington IGA grocery It was constructed with detailed chronologies of store, next to the town’s fire house. dozens of CIA detainees. The paper said the report Before the landslide, when Darrington people popped describes a long-standing pattern of unsubstantiated down the less mountainous Arlington, they talked about claims the CIA sought permission to use - and later “going down there” or “going down below.” tried to defend - excruciating interrogation methods that yielded little to no significant intelligence, accord- Strong community ing to US officials who have reviewed the document. Blayne Parris, whose family has run the Blue Bird Cafe in “The CIA described (its program) repeatedly both to the Department of Justice and eventually to Congress Arlington’s main street for generations, said of his as getting unique, otherwise unobtainable intelligence Darrington friends: “It’s not coming down anymore, it’s that helped disrupt terrorist plots and save thousands going around.” of lives,” said one US official briefed on the report. The road to Oso from either Arlington or Darrington ends “Was that actually true? The answer is no.” Current at roadblocks a mile or two before the mudslide area itself. and former US officials describing the report spoke on Only workers heading for the “pile,” as it is known, are the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity allowed through. Yellow ribbons flutter in the breeze, tied of the issue and because the document remains classi- around trees and hedges along Route 530, which locals fied. have used as their name for the disaster: the 530 slide. The report includes what officials described as A short distance before the Arlington end of the damning new disclosures about a sprawling network blocked-off area stands the Oso Community Chapel, where of secret detention facilities, or “black sites”, that was workers are busy loading water and foodstuffs into vans and dismantled by President Barack Obama in 2009. cars to take to families in need. Jerry Graber, the chapel’s The report describes previously undisclosed cases board president, said they had raised $20,000 since the of abuse including the alleged repeated dunking of a catastrophe. One of his church’s young members was terror suspect in tanks of iced water in Afghanistan. among the 30 people still missing. “We are a strong commu- This method bore similarities to waterboarding but nity. Everybody helps out in a crisis like this,” he told AFP. never showed up on any list of techniques approved The community may be strong, but the local economy by the Justice Department, the Post said.— AFP has struggled. Tourism and logging provide crucial income Report finds racial disparity in US children’s well-being
NEW YORK: African-American children’s poverty, poor hous- dren will be of non-white ethnicity. African-American children ing and lack of access to education pose a national crisis, said fared the worst in the study, and the situation “should be con- a report released yesterday that found a wide gap in well- sidered a national crisis,” the report said. Only 18 percent of being among US children of different races. In almost every African-American fourth-graders in US-born families and 7 region of the United States, African-American, Latino and percent in immigrant families scored at or above “proficient” in Native American children face far greater barriers to their reading, the report said. African-American children face the future success than their white and Asian counterparts, greatest barriers to success in Michigan, Wisconsin and across according to the study by the Annie E Casey Foundation, southern states, including Mississippi and Alabama, the report which aims to improve the life of all children. said. Asian and Pacific Islander children had the highest over- The “Race for Results” report used 12 indicators and a sin- all index score, followed by white children. gle composite score to determine a child’s chance at future African-American, American Indian and Latino teens are success. The factors included whether the children were born the least likely to graduate from high school on time, and at normal birth weight, if they were enrolled in preschool by teenage girls are less likely to delay childbearing than their the ages of 3 to 5, whether they lived with an adult who has at white and Asian peers. The country’s 17.6 million Latino chil- least a high school diploma, and their proficiency at reading dren are the least likely to live in a household where someone and math during elementary and middle school. “This first- has at least a high school diploma, an indicator of the “obsta- time index shows that many in our next generation, especially cles families of color face in gaining economic security,” the kids of color, are off track in many issue areas and in nearly study said. “Overall, the index shows that at the national level, every region of the country,” said Casey Foundation Chief no one racial group has all children meeting all milestones,” Executive Officer Patrick McCarthy. the report said. The report suggests that the breakdown of The report also says that by 2018, the majority of US chil- racial demographics can influence policy decisions. — Reuters INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Morocco relocation of migrants stirs ‘crisis’ warning
RABAT: Rabat’s policy of relocating sub- said, adding that one of the NGOs, Catholic Migration Minister Anis Birou. ‘Vague proposals, ongoing abuses’ work in Morocco-a small fraction of the Saharan migrants, apparently under pres- charity Caritas, had closed its office in Birou said Morocco was becoming a Rights groups say there have been 13,000 applications. sure from Spain to stem a surge in illegal protest. settlement, rather than a transit country some improvements since the new policy But Stephane Juliet, with the migrant border crossings, is creating a potential “Since November, the reception centres for immigrants, and insisted the govern- was announced, although only 300 support group GADEM, described the gov- humanitarian crisis, according to NGOs. have been overwhelmed by the number of ment’s response was “fundamentally migrants have so far been granted the resi- ernment’s new proposals as “very vague”. Within 48 hours of two massive migrants arriving... Some of those brought based on human rights.” dency permits that allow them to stay and Juliet highlighted the contradiction attempts to storm the border fence into here have quite serious wounds,” Vincent between Morocco’s desire to improve its Spain’s North African enclave of Melilla, six Sibout, the head of Caritas Morocco, told rights image and the abusive treatment buses arrived early Saturday at the main AFP. and forced displacement of immigrants. coach station in Rabat, carrying about 300 “What we don’t understand is that with Separately, Human Rights Watch last illegal immigrants, an AFP journalist this new, more respectful migration policy, week slammed Spanish authorities for reported. which we welcome ... They told us there summarily returning irregular immigrants Some of them had serious injuries sus- would be a moratorium on arrests and to Morocco from Ceuta and Melilla, tained during the assaults, aid workers deportations (to Algeria). Europe’s only land borders with Africa. said. Their arrival from the north was the “But instead, displacements are taking It said the practice violated Spanish, latest “forced displacement” by Moroccan place in the north in conditions that are European and international law, especially authorities, despite Rabat vaunting its new not respectful of human rights,” Sibout as “migrants forced back into Morocco face migration policy aimed at dealing more said. violence and other abuse at the hands of humanely with the growing problem. Morocco is clearly struggling to cope Moroccan security forces.” In the two separate incidents last week, with a rising tide of sub-Saharan Africans Abdelahi, one of those forcibly trans- between 800 and 1,000 migrants rushed heading to its northern shores in their bid ferred to Rabat at the weekend, spoke bit- the six-metre-high (20-foot) border fence to reach Europe. terly of his expulsion from Melilla. “After at Melilla. In February, 15 sub-Saharans Its security forces have come under fire getting in, they tied our hands and sent drowned trying to swim from Morocco to for beating, arbitrarily detaining and us back. We saw how these Europeans nearby Ceuta, Spain’s other North African deporting the immigrants to Algeria. In make the laws and then trample all over enclave. response to the criticism, Rabat them.” announced that it would halt the deporta- Another sub-Saharan, Abderrahman, Support groups ‘overwhelmed’ tions, vowed to strengthen the institution- said that after the Spanish authorities A network of 10 NGOs said that since al frameworks for accommodating the esti- expelled him from Melilla in an earlier inci- December, Moroccan security forces have mated 30,000 people residing illegally on dent, the Moroccan security forces beat been relocating to Rabat at first dozens, its soil and launched a scheme in January him and fractured his hand. RABAT: Sub-Saharan immigrants gather along a street in Rabat, on March 29, after then hundreds of migrants, who the to “regularise” their papers. “They brought me to Caritas telling me being deported back to Morocco from the Spanish port city of Melilia. Rabat’s poli- groups are then left to look after. Three new proposals-on the right to they would help immigrants. (The charity) cy of relocating sub-Saharan migrants, apparently under pressure from Spain to “The actions taken by our organisations asylum, immigration and human traffick- gave me some food and money for accom- stem a surge in illegal border crossings, is creating a potential humanitarian crisis, are inadequate to deal with what we con- ing-were presented in draft form to civil modation. But now Caritas is closed, there according to NGOs. — AFP sider a humanitarian crisis,” the network society groups last week in the presence of is nothing I can do.” — AFP Ukraine vote to disarm self-defence groups ‘Ukrainians are demanding order’
KIEV: Ukraine’s parliament yesterday met a Dnipro hotel. Sector after the shooting death of one of its key demand of both Russia and the West by A top Kiev city administrator and two other leaders during an altercation with the police. voting to disarm self-defence groups that were wounded in the incident. A subsequent About a thousand Pravy Sector members sprang up during months of deadly protests raid on the hotel unearthed a cache of arms held an angry rally outside parliament against Kiev’s pro-Kremlin regime. and led to the prime suspect’s arrest. Thursday night demanding that lawmakers The decision came in the wake of a night- But law enforcement agents have been sack the head of the country’s interior min- time police raid on the central Kiev hotel treading carefully in their dealings with Pravy istry. — AFP headquarters of a far right nationalist organi- PARIS: Outgoing French Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, right, shakes hands with sation that was instrumental in the February incoming French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, during the takeover ceremony at the Prime rise to power of a new team of pro-European Ministry in Paris, yesterday. France’s new prime minister is taking office after Socialist leaders who are seeking to end decades of President Francois Hollande named Valls on Monday as prime minister. — AP Russian dominance over the ex-Soviet state. Balaclava-clad members of Pravy Sector (Right Sector) still roam the barricade- French PM forms govt as clogged capital with clubs in hand-an omi- nous presence Russia has used in its cam- mammoth challenges await paign to delegitimize Ukraine’s new authori- ties. But the culturally splintered nation of 46 PARIS: France’s new Prime Minister Manuel Division within Socialist party million has also seen armed Slavic-pride Valls faced a delicate balancing act yesterday Aside from the realities of a dire econom- groups such as Oplot (Bastion) emerge in as he set about forming a new government ic situation, Valls also has the challenge of heavily Russified eastern regions that are tasked with reviving the economy and rein- ironing out divisions within the French left, looking at the Kremlin’s annexation of Crimea ing in public finances. particularly those who feel that the Socialists with envy and hoping to break their own ties President Francois Hollande nominated have adopted a pro-business stance. with Kiev. the tough-talking interior minister to the post Already ministers Cecile Duflot and Pascal Agitated lawmakers representing both on Monday after the ruling Socialists suffered Canfin have announced they will not be part Russian and Ukrainian speakers unanimously a drubbing at municipal polls, replacing of Valls’s government, and the EELV green agreed yesterday that it was time for the incumbent Jean-Marc Ayrault who had head- party they belong to says it has not yet police to break up these “armed formations” ed up a deeply unpopular government. decided whether to remain in the governing and reestablish a semblance of stability after Valls’s firm stance on crime and his coalition. four months of unrest. dynamism have won him respect from voters “Since he has been a government mem- “The Ukrainian people are demanding across the political spectrum, but the nomi- ber, Manuel Valls has never expressed his order,” acting president Oleksandr Turchynov KIEV: Armed special team police officers surround the Dnipro hotel in the center of Kiev late on March nation of the 51-year-old-considered on the views on the economy, on ecology, on social said ahead of the 256-0 vote. “Those who car- 31, to block the headquarters of Right Sector, the Ukrainian radical nationalists movement. — AFP right of the Socialist Party-has antagonised issues,” Francois de Rugy, an EELV lawmaker, ry arms-besides the police, the security servic- some ministers who have preemptively told Europe 1 radio. es and the national guard-are saboteurs who refused to take part in his new government. There is also strong speculation that the are working against the country.” Valls is arriving at a time of “very compli- mother of Hollande’s four children, Segolene A top member of Pravy Sector later told cated economic conditions”, said Frederic Royal, will be recalled from the political AFP that his group intended to keep the Bosnian Serb leader Dabi of the IFOP polling institute. wilderness. weapons its has legally register but could give Valls faces the challenge of “an economic Valls, who is officially due to take over up those it seized during protests from the context that has deteriorated sharply”, he from Ayrault in a ceremony at 1300 GMT, fallen government’s police force. seeks confederation added, with unemployment and a public met with an EELV delegation early Tuesday, “The so-called illegal arms that we grabbed deficit that remain stubbornly high after near- Green Senator Jean-Vincent Place told AFP. from law enforcement officers who were com- ly two years of Socialist rule. Dabi said the divisions should iron them- BANJA LUKA: Emboldened by events in autonomy, slowing progress towards the mitting crimes against the Ukrainian people Ukraine, the leader of Bosnia’s Serbs called European Union and NATO, which fellow ex- Growth, meanwhile, is almost non-exis- selves out once a new government is have all been stockpiled,” Andriy Bondarenko tent and the exasperation of the French was formed, adding that Valls was likely to have yesterday for Bosnia to become a confedera- Yugoslav republics Croatia and Slovenia have said in an interview conducted outside his tion of three states, and again threatened a already joined. reflected in Sunday’s municipal polls that saw more of a handle on his ministers than his group’s new office in Kiev. the Socialists lose a mammoth 155 towns and predecessor. referendum on secession if the proposal fails. “We have been negotiating with the interi- Milorad Dodik, president of Bosnia’s Crimea ‘convenient’ cities to the main opposition and far right. “Jean-Marc Ayrault’s personal image is or ministry and the security service about In a televised address on Monday, not too damaged,” Dabi said. “He appears autonomous Serb Republic, has long advocat- British politician Paddy Ashdown, a former either legalising these ‘trophy guns’ or giving ed Bosnia be scrapped as a state, but has international overseer in postwar Bosnia, Hollande charged Valls with implementing a pleasant, competent, serious, close to the them up,” he said. package of pro-business policies known as people, but he had a leadership deficit on grown increasingly bold as elections accused Russia last month of stoking Serb “We do not intend to do anything else with approach in October that threaten to shake separatist sentiment, citing among other the Responsibility Pact, which cuts taxes on his ministers, there was the feeling that he them,” said Bondarenko. “The only question is firms that are widely viewed as hampering didn’t really manage his government.” his 8-year grip on power. things Moscow’s offer of a loan to the Serb why these negotiations have dragged on for Dodik, who has courted Russian political Republic after the International Monetary employment and growth, and imposes He pointed to the widespread feeling so long.” spending cuts of 50 billion euros ($69 billion). among the French that the government flip- backing, has seized on Crimea’s referendum Fund halted funding for the country. At the same time, he also asked him to put flopped on issues and did not lead the coun- to split from Ukraine - which was followed by Dodik said he expected a first installment Disarming provocateurs Russian annexation - as a prime example of of 70 million euros ($95 million) in April. in motion a new “Solidarity Pact” that would try with a firm hand at a challenging time. Russian President Vladimir Putin has used include steps to boost spending on educa- “Through his personality, his dynamism... self-determination in action, unnerving Another 200 million euros were available over Pravy Sector’s example to justify his decision Western capitals uncertain about his true the coming year, he said, but did not specify tion and health and reduce personal income Manuel Valls could bring more leadership to both order troops into Crimea and use any taxes. over his ministers,” Dabi said. — AFP intentions. “Our next step is the opening of a the terms of the loan or whether it came from means necessary to “protect” compatriots dialogue ... on the restructuring of Bosnia as a the Russian state or through a commercial throughout Ukraine against attacks by mili- confederation consisting of three states,” he bank. Most analysts say Dodik’s rhetoric has tants that he says have been given free reign told a news conference in the Serb Republic’s more to do with playing the nationalist card by Turchynov and his ministers. administrative centre, Banja Luka. among voters than any real intention. Serbia, The Kremlin’s subsequent buildup of “If this proves impossible, Republika Srpska which fomented the war in Bosnia but has troops along Ukraine’s eastern frontier has retains the right to hold a referendum on its swung behind the goal of EU membership sparked the worst East-West crisis since the status.” A confederation is a non-starter for since the fall of strongman Slobodan Cold War era and forced Kiev’s new leaders to Bosnia’s Muslim Bosniaks - the chief victims of Milosevic in 2000, will not want to be seen to fear the possibility of a further dismember- Bosnia’s 1992-95 war - but may win some sup- be encouraging the breakup of Bosnia. ment of their state. port among ethnic Croat hardliners who have Crimea was “convenient” for Dodik, said Both Washington and EU nations have long called for their own entity within Bosnia. Sarajevo-based Kurt Bassuener, a senior asso- been putting pressure on the interim cabinet After a war in which some 100,000 people ciate at the Democratization Policy Council to take measures against Pravy Sector and were killed, a US-brokered peace deal split think-tank. “But obviously this is unlike thus limit the arguments Putin had for inter- Bosnia into two highly autonomous regions - Ukraine - Bosnia does not border Russia, vening in Ukraine’s internal affairs. the Serb-dominated Serb Republic and the there is no Russian troop presence here, and I US Secretary of State John Kerry said Federation, populated mainly by Bosniaks and don’t foresee the Russians flying paratroopers Sunday after his latest round of crisis talks Croats. to Republika Srpska to support its independ- with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov The two regions are joined by a weak cen- ence bid.” Aleksandar Trifunovic, editor of the that the “demobilisation and disarmament of tral authority, while the Federation itself is Banja Luka web portal “Buka”, said Dodik’s irregular forces and provocateurs” was a top split into ten cantons, creating a highly- comments should be seen in the context of priority for Ukraine. decentralized and unwieldy system that is fre- parliamentary and presidential elections due quently paralysed by ethnic bickering. Under in mid-October, with Dodik’s party losing VILNIUS: Pilot of US F15C Eagle jet fighter climbs into the fighter before take off during the Gunshots outside hotel Lithuanian - NATO air force exercise at the Siauliai airbase some 230 km (144 miles) east of the the peace accord, neither region has the right ground in opinion polls. Dodik has threat- Pravy Sector was forced to move offices to secede or can be scrapped. The Bosnian ened a referendum “so many times in public, capital Vilnius, Lithuania, yesterday. The air training event will involve F-15C Eagle of the US Tuesday after one of its members allegedly Air Force currently deployed on NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission, JAS-39 Gripen aircraft of Serbs have resisted any reforms at the state and so many times it has proven fruitless”, he opened fire outside a central Kiev restaurant level that they see as infringing on their said. — Reuters the Swedish Air Force, C-27J Spartan transport aircraft and Mi-8 helicopter of the Lithuanian and then took refuge in the city’s prominent Air Force. — AP
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 INTERNATIONAL
Changes at US embassy in Delhi offer chance to rebuild ties
NEW DELHI: The sudden resignation of A host of retaliatory measures taken upon the prime ministerial candidate of home in Delaware state. the US ambassador to India less than by India over the arrest included the the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at his “It is the internal matter of the two years into her troubled term opens withdrawal of additional security meas- office in the state capital of Gujarat. United States and we do not have a an opportunity for both sides to reboot ures at the US embassy and threats to “The sense in Washington is that comment to make,” an Indian foreign strained ties ahead of an expected close an embassy-run social club. they should have engaged with Modi ministry spokesman told AFP on change in government, analysts say. “The Indian government took a hard much earlier than February,” Deo Tuesday. Nancy Powell, US ambassador since stand after the arrest of (Deputy Consul explained. “He is being considered a But whatever the reasons, most 2012, had a torrid time at the helm of General Devyani) Khobragade,” said serious prime ministerial candidate by agree that her decision to leave offers one of Washington’s most important Neelam Deo, director of Gateway the United States.” both sides a chance to rebuild with new diplomatic missions as it became House, a foreign policy think tank in personalities amid speculation that US embroiled in one of the most serious Mumbai. ‘Cleaning the slate’ President Barack Obama will now downturns in relations in decades. While managing this, Powell was The Hindustan Times reported appoint a heavy-hitting figure to lead in New Delhi was incensed in late also central to a sharp-some say belat- Tuesday that Powell had been privately New Delhi. December when an Indian diplomat in ed change in US policy over opposition criticised by many officials for failing to On his visit to India in 2010, Obama New York was arrested, strip-searched leader Narendra Modi who is tipped to be more pro-active on lifting the boy- called the budding strategic relation- and then pursued in court over allega- emerge as prime minister after national cott of Modi. ship between the United States and tions she violated visa rules by under- elections starting next Monday. The same paper reported last week India as “one of the defining partner- paying a domestic servant. The US decided to end a decade- that her imminent departure was “an ships of the 21st century”. Powell, who has spent 37 years in long boycott of Modi, who was chief attempt by the Obama administration But after finally overcoming their the US foreign service, had to manage minister of western Gujarat state in to ‘clean the slate’ with India”. Cold War-era suspicions, the US Ambassador to India Nancy Powell the firestorm, contending with furious 2002 when anti-Muslim riots broke out, The reasons for her exit have been Khobragade episode has set back ties, “The change (at the US embassy) is Indian officials and even facing person- leaving more than 1,000 people dead. explained by the US State Department leading to a flurry of cancellations coming at a time when there is a down- al difficulties over threats to withdraw In February, long after European as her simply deciding to end her dis- between officials which have resumed turn in the relationship,” former Indian her travel privileges. powers had re-engaged, Powell called tinguished career early and retire to her only tentatively in recent months. diplomat G. Parthasarathy said. — AFP Malaysian credibility in jet hunt challenged again Frustration over progress with investigations
KUALA LUMPUR: It may mean little to investiga- tors that the last words air traffic controllers heard from the lost jetliner were “Good night, Malaysian three-seven-zero,” rather than “All right, good night.” But to Malaysian officials whose credibility has been questioned almost from the beginning, it means a great deal. Malaysian officials said more than two weeks ago that “All right, good night,” were the last words, and that the co-pilot uttered them. They changed the account late Monday and said they are still investigating who it was that spoke. The discrepancy added to the confusion and frustra- HERAT: An Afghan woman with a portrait of presidential candidate Abdullah tion families of the missing already felt more Abdullah on her scarf listens to his speech during a campaign rally at a stadium in than three weeks after Malaysia Airlines Flight the northwestern city of Herat yesterday. — AFP 370 disappeared. “This sort of mistake hits at the heart of trust in their communications. If Malaysia is changing Hunting Taleban ahead what the pilot said, people start thinking, ‘What are they going to change next?” said Hamish of the Afghan election McLean, an expert in risk and crisis communica- tion at Griffith University in Brisbane, Australia. KHOGYANI: In a small village in a poppy- “These roads are not finished, the insur- “Information is in a crisis is absolutely critical. covered valley in eastern Afghanistan, a gents have laid mines everywhere,” said When we are dealing with such a small amount group of soldiers rest and eat after shelling Colonel Shirin Agha. of information its needs to be handled very care- the Taleban for several hours-until a burst of Scarcely had he said this when a huge fully,” he said. Authorities have been forced on KUALA LUMPUR: This picture taken on March 31, 2014 shows a young devotee holding a plac- gunfire cuts lunch short. explosion echoed from further down the the defensive by the criticism, the most forceful ard as she offers prayers for passengers of missing Malaysia Airlines (MAS) flight MH370 at a The men of the Afghan army’s fourth road-a Taleban roadside bomb, but one of which has come from a group of Chinese rela- Buddhist temple in Kuala Lumpur. — AFP infantry brigade have been tasked with clear- which failed to cause any casualties. tives who accuse them of lying about - or even ing the Taleban from the Khogyani and The fall of evening brought darkness and involvement in - the plane’s disappearance. In last point of contact with air-traffic controllers, Airlines to inject some certainty into the fate of Sherzad districts of the restive province of the first skirmish with the militants. As the part responding to domestic political criticism, but it took about a week for officials to explain the passengers was a mistake. Until then, she Nangarhar, ahead of Saturday’s presidential soldiers reached the top of a hill, shots rang defense minister Hishammuddin Hussein has that radar had detected the plane in the area. said she thought the Malaysian government election first round. out, seemingly from nowhere. The soldiers taken to retweeting supportive comments on “There are some things that I can tell you and had acted responsibly, but the text message Whoever wins the race to succeed unloaded mortars and a cannon, and began Twitter. He has twice in recent days proclaimed some things that I can’t,” Malaysia’s civil aviation “totally violated my trust.” President Hamid Karzai will inherit a fragile firing on the snowy hillsides around the val- that “history would judge us well” over the han- chief said cryptically in the early days of the “I fell off the cliff,” Bacj said. “The way the text security situation with local soldiers fighting a ley. After a biting cold night for the soldiers dling of the crisis. search. message came, I expected proof. That they had still-resilient Taleban insurgency, soon with- on the hillside, the offensive began again in The government’s opponents disagree. “That was a terrible, terrible response,” said found the bodies, or that they had found con- out the support of NATO combat forces, the morning-artillery and American A-10 Opposition leader Lim Kit Siang said the correc- Lyall Mercer, the principal of Australian-based firmed wreckage, or something ... but they which are leaving Afghanistan. attack aircraft strafed the valley. After three tion set off a “medley of shame, sadness and Mercer PR, a public relations company. “It says didn’t actually tell us anything at all. The only The fourth infantry brigade’s “Operation hours, Colonel Zubair Ahmad, a tetchy, ener- anger” and strengthened the case for creating to the families that ‘we know things that we are thing they did was make a judgment statement Eagle 30” began before sunrise, with dozens getic commander shouting orders into a an opposition-led parliamentary committee to not going to share’ and that ‘something else is about evidence - unconfirmed evidence, mind of military vehicles roaring out of the base walkie-talkie to direct operations, called a halt investigate the government’s performance in more important than you’.” you.” The final words from the cockpit, and who into the countryside. The troops moved to the barrage. The convoy moved off and the search. The piece of information that families most said them, are of interest not only because there quickly and soon reached a valley of emerald stopped in a little village where the soldiers The communications skills of any govern- want to hear - whether their relatives are alive are few other clues to the disappearance, but green-poppy fields, the opium goldmine that threw themselves on a well to drink and lined ment or airline would have been severely tested or dead - has remained impossible to say with because the communication occurred just a finances the Taleban insurgency to the tune up at a huge cooking pot for a plate of rice by the search for the Boeing 777-200 and its 239 finality, creating a dilemma for the government. minute before the plane’s transponders were of millions of dollars a year. Briefing his men and a lump of meat-their first hot meal since passengers and crew. So far not a scrap of debris On March 24, it tried to address that. Malaysian shut off. the day before the offensive in a fortified leaving base. has been found. Airlines officials met families in Kuala Lumpur On March 16, government and airline offi- camp half an hour from the provincial capital A few minutes later their plates were flying “There has been very little to tell and a lot of and Beijing and sent a text message to others cials said the final words were “All right, good Jalalabad, General Dadan Lawang reminded and the men rushing to their weapons-the unanswered questions,” said Andrew Herdman, saying “we have to assume beyond any reason- night” and initial investigations showed they his “lions” of their historic duty. Taleban were attacking despite the army’s director-general of the Association of Asia Pacific able doubt that MH370 has been lost and that were spoken by the co-pilot. As of Tuesday they “As you all know, we are at a critical junc- morning-long bombardment. Airlines. “There is frustration on the lack of new none of those on board survived.” had not explained how they got it wrong. ture in Afghanistan at the moment-the presi- But if the rebels have the advantage of information, frustration over progress with PR experts and professionals said the impor- dential and provincial council elections,” he surprise, the Afghan troops are better investigations and the search. That frustration is Final words tant thing now was to try and give the families cried. equipped and their response was a brutal tor- being channeled to the Malaysian authorities At a news conference half an hour later, as much information as possible, before the “We must fight our enemies and eliminate rent of fire from rifles, heavy machine guns, but I think it’s a bit premature to use that to Prime Minister Najib Razak was less direct. He media gets hold of it, and to keep paying atten- the insurgents from this district,” he said, ges- and rocket-launchers, while the American A- reflect adversely on how they are doing.” said with “deep sadness and regret” that the tion to them even when the media gaze had turing to the rugged mountains where the 10s once again roared overhead to strafe the plane’s last known position was “a remote loca- drifted. Taleban hide, earning a noisy “Allahu akbar!” mountain. Terrible response tion, far from any possible landing sites,” and On Tuesday, the Malaysian government (God is greater) from his men. Since they were “Our convoy faced the enemy ambush and Still, the government’s handling of informa- that the flight “ended” in the southern Indian announced that technical experts from thrown out of power in 2001, the Taleban our army forces and police bravely gave them tion has at times fed perceptions that it was Ocean. Sarah Bacj, a 48-year-old American expa- Malaysia, China and Australia would brief the have led a bloody insurgency, which 12 and a a jaw-breaking answer-the enemy have fled holding back. From the first day of the search, triate teacher whose boyfriend, Philip Wood, families in a closed-door session in Kuala half years of Western military intervention from the area,” said Sergeant Ahmad Qais, crews were looking far to the west of the plane’s was on the flight, said the decision by Malaysian Lumpur.— AP have not succeeded in quelling. reloading his rifle. The militants still hold sway in certain Lawang too declared Operation Eagle 30 a parts of the country and they have vowed to success and spoke bullishly of the Afghan disrupt the election, prompting fears of low army’s ability to tackle the threat posed by Thai protester shot dead, turnout and a discredited poll. the Taleban-even without American military assistance on land and from the air. Shots and shivering The ability of the new president to lead rekindling political crisis Once in the poppy-lined valley, things Afghanistan to a more stable, prosperous start to get serious for the Afghan troops- future will depend greatly on this, and it BANGKOK: Gunmen opened fire on with scores wounded, since protest- raising the risk of further confronta- defunct Thai Rak Thai party. fearing ambush and roadside bombs, the remains to be seen whether the general’s a group of Thai anti-government pro- ers took to the streets in November in tion.. “We received three (of the) “Definitely the names we’re seeing convoy edges its way forward. confidence is well-founded.— AFP testers driving away from a Bangkok a bid to force Prime Minister Yingluck injured protesters at the hospital. on the list of winners are mostly pro- rally yesterday, killing one, wounding Shinawatra from office and erase the One succumbed to a gunshot wound government, with ties to the ruling four and raising tension in a political influence of her brother, ousted pre- to the head,” an official at party and coalition party,” Paiboon crisis that has gripped the country for mier Thaksin Shinawatra. Ramathibodi Hospital in Bangkok Nititawan, an appointed senator who Filipinos hoping for miracles months. Yingluck has resisted mounting told Reuters. has sided with anti-government pro- It was not immediately clear who pressure to step down and her “red In a rare piece of good news for testers in the past. queue to kiss Pope relics was responsible for the violence shirt” supporters have called for a Yingluck, who is battling negligence “It is not possible that the Senate which brought the death toll to 24, mass rally in Bangkok on Sunday, charges brought by the national anti- will get the three-fifths of votes need- MANILA: Hundreds of people queued in the Day. The relics will be exhibited at several graft commission, unofficial results of ed to remove the prime minister.” churches and other venues in the Philippines Philippines yesterday to kiss the hair, blood- Thailand’s weekend Senate election stained clothing and a cassock of the late over the next two months, tapping in to the suggest a pro-government majority. Plot thickens Pope John Paul II, beseeching the soon-to-be- excitement in Asia’s Catholic outpost at his Yingluck has been charged with While the Senate is officially non- sainted Polish pontiff to perform miracles for canonisation on April 27. dereliction of duty for her role in partisan, the majority of the 77 elect- them. “I am so happy. I am ready to die now “This pope was a lot like us Filipinos,” said overseeing a disastrous state rice- ed seats were likely decided on the that I have seen his relics,” retired grade Manila Bible teacher Lolit Legazpi, 42. buying scheme that has run up huge basis of endorsements from power- school teacher Gene Suarez, 67, told AFP at a “His heart was close to children and he losses. Should the National Anti- ful, party-affiliated institutions. small Manila chapel where they went on dis- was a devoted follower of the Virgin Mary,” Corruption Commission (NACC) for- It remains unclear when the NACC play. she told AFP. Former textile factory worker ward the case to the Senate for possi- will decide whether to forward Visitors with smart phones, computer Ronnie Fernandez was elated he finally “saw” ble impeachment, she could be Yingluck’s case to the Senate, drag- tablets and compact cameras snapped pic- a pope after missing out on both papal visits. removed from office. ging out weeks of uncertainty and tures of Karol Wojtyla’s hair strands, a blood- “He inspired me to devote my full time in That would require the votes of leaving Yingluck at the helm of a stained piece of fabric, a skullcap, cassock, the service of the Lord,” said Fernandez, who three-fifths of the senators. Thailand’s caretaker government with limited and a strip of the sheet from his deathbed. in 1988 quit his job and set up a Catholic 150-seat Senate is made up of 77 powers. And there is a further legal After a packed midday mass attended by group that organises religious processions elected senators. The other 73 are challenge. A group of 27 senators has about 300 people, worshippers lined up to and prayer rallies. appointed and are largely seen as petitioned the Constitutional Court kiss and touch their handkerchiefs on the Some visitors said they prayed to John opponents of the government. to rule that her removal of National items, some of which were encased in gilt- Paul II to help them solve their problems. Preliminary results released by the Security Chief Thawil Pliensree in edged glass boxes. “I hope he will be able to perform a mira- BANGKOK: Anti-government protesters carry their injured protester Election Commission on Monday 2011 violated the constitution. A Also on show were mementoes from a cle for me,” said ex-teacher Suarez, who said from a bus to an ambulance after an attack by suspected gunmen show winning candidates in the court ruling reinstated him last week. mass that John Paul II celebrated in Manila in she had run up 600,000 pesos ($13,410) in while on their way back from a protest in Bangkok, Thailand yester- north and northeast, Thaksin strong- The Constitutional Court will 1981, when he beatified a Filipino religious debts to a loanshark, with no hope of repay- day. Gunmen have fired on a convoy of anti-government protesters in holds, are largely linked to the ruling decide on Wednesday whether to martyr, and a second in 1995 for World Youth ing them on her meagre pension.—AFP Thailand’s capital, and four people have been wounded. — AP Puea Thai Party and Thaksin’s now- accept the case. —Reuters NEWS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Apocalyptic prophecies fuel war in Syria Qaeda mocks Saudi Continued from Page 1 to wait and see.” For the faithful, the hadith chart the course of Syria’s con- This is the war he promised - it is the Grand Battle,” he told flict from its beginning in March 2011, when protests erupted move to deter Saudis from joining rebels in Syria and then pos- DUBAI: Al-Qaeda’s Yemen branch has mocked tough new Reuters, using a word which can also be translated as slaugh- over the alleged torture of students and schoolboys who ing a security risk once they return home. Saudi Arabia’s Islamic counter-terrorism measures adopted by neighboring Saudi ter. wrote anti-Assad graffiti on a school wall in Deraa. “There will religious authorities have spoken out against Saudi fighters Arabia, saying they would not deter the Islamist group’s fighters On the other side, many Shiites from Lebanon, Iraq and be a strife in Sham (Syria) that begins with children playing, going to Syria, but the Interior Ministry estimates that around and that they proved the kingdom was in the pay of the United Iran are drawn to the war because they believe it paves the after which nothing can be fixed,” according to one hadith. 1,200 Saudis have gone nonetheless. Riyadh fears returning States. In an online statement, Al-Qaeda in the Arabian way for the return of Imam Mahdi - a descendent of the “When it calms down from one side, it ignites from the other.” fighters will target the ruling Al Saud royal family - as happened Peninsula (AQAP) also said Riyadh’s designation of the Muslim Prophet who vanished 1,000 years ago and who will re- Hadith on both sides mention Syria as a main battlefield, after the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Brotherhood - a group whose political wings have contested emerge at a time of war to establish global Islamic rule before naming cities and towns where blood will be spilled. An appeal contained in the counter-terrorism measures for elections in several countries - as a terrorist organization proved the end of the world. According to Shiite tradition, an early Hundreds of thousands of people will be killed. The whole fighters to turn themselves in had not been answered, Rubaysh that secular authorities would never tolerate Islamist groups. sign of his return came with the 1979 Iranian revolution, region will be shaken from the Arabian Peninsula to Iraq, Iran said, adding that this showed “there is no weight on the hearts AQAP, seen as one of the most dangerous Al-Qaeda branches which set up an Islamic state to provide fighters for an army and Jerusalem, according to some texts. Saudi Arabia will col- of the mujahideen (holy warriors)”. Saudi authorities also fear the after it plotted attacks on international airliners, is thought to led by the Mahdi to wage war in Syria after sweeping through lapse. Almost every country in the Middle East will face unrest. Muslim Brotherhood, whose Sunni Islamist doctrines challenge have several hundred Saudi militants fighting alongside Yemeni the Middle East. One statement says “blood will reach knee-level”. A widely cir- the Saudi principle of dynastic rule, has tried to build support counterparts against the government in Sanaa. On Feb 3, Saudi “This Islamic Revolution, based on the narratives that we culated hadith attributed to Mohammad says Sham, or Syria, inside the kingdom since the Arab Spring revolutions. Arabia announced tougher punishments for Saudis seeking to have received from the prophet and imams, is the prelude to is God’s favored land. Asked where the next jihad will be, he In Egypt, the Brotherhood, which won every election after join Islamist militant groups abroad and on March 7 the interior the appearance of the Mahdi,” Iranian cleric and parliamentari- replies: “Go for Sham, and if you can’t, go for Yemen the toppling of veteran leader Hosni Mubarak in 2011, has been ministry designated a number of groups, including the an Ruhollah Hosseinian said last year. He cited comments by ...(though) God has guaranteed me Sham and its people.” driven underground since the army deposed President Brotherhood, as terrorist organizations. an eighth century Shiite imam who said another sign of the Another refers to Muslims gathering “at the time of war in Mohamed Morsi, a member of the group which also suffered In the group’s first public response to the measures, senior Mahdi’s return would be a battle involving warriors fighting Ghouta, near a city called Damascus”. Ghouta, east of Syria’s repression in the Mubarak era. Rubaysh said the listing of the AQAP official Ibrahim Al-Rubaysh said of the Saudi authorities in under a yellow banner - the color associated with Lebanon’s capital, has been a rebel stronghold for the last two years. A Brotherhood as a terrorist group sent “a message for all groups an audio tape posted online: “Their employers are the White pro-Assad Hezbollah militia. “As Imam Sadeq has stated, when Sunni hadith speaks of a battle in a town called Dabeq, in who are softening their processes and abandoning some of House.” He added that Riyadh appeared to consider the US the (forces) with yellow flags fight anti-Shiites in Damascus northern Syria near the Turkish border, and intervention by a their principles” that they would never be accepted by the authorities as “gods.” Addressing pro-government Muslim and Iranian forces join them, this is a prelude and a sign of the foreign army to split the Muslim fighters - seen by some as a “heads of disbelief”. “Heads of disbelief” is a phrase used by Al- preachers in Saudi Arabia, Rubaysh said: “You are more American coming of his holiness,” Hosseinian was quoted as saying by reference to a possible Turkish incursion. Qaeda to indicate secular or pro-Western authorities. “It is than the Americans themselves.” Fars news agency. Under the new measures, Saudi Arabia will jail for up to 20 required to stand firm unto death if we desire the satisfaction of Arab Spring Allah,” Rubaysh said. — Reuters years any citizen who fights in conflicts abroad - an apparent Medieval battlefields Syria’s civil war grew out of the “Arab Spring” of pro- Islam split into its Sunni and Shiite branches during a war democracy revolts in the Middle East and North Africa in 2011 over the succession to the leadership of the faith in the gener- after Assad’s forces cracked down hard on peaceful protests. NA holds secret session over budget ation that followed the Prophet Mohammad’s death in 632. But because Assad is a member of the Alawite sect, an off- Continued from Page 1 Shaye said the presentation made by the government The hadith, or sayings of the prophet and his companions, shoot of Shiism, and most of his opponents are Sunni proves that the financial status of the country is deteriorat- have been handed down orally over the centuries and are the Muslims, the fighting quickly took on a sectarian character, He said that before then, the government promised to ing and will be very difficult in the future if squandering of most important sources of authority in Islam after the Quran which has largely overwhelmed the political issues. “These submit to the Assembly a comprehensive strategy on these public funds does not stop. itself. Many date back to those medieval battlefields in what hadith are what the Mujahideen are guided by to come to issues. No details were announced about the secret session. Shaye called for a revision of the government’s subsidies are now Syria and Iraq, where the two main Islamic sects took Syria, we are fighting for this. With every passing day we know MP Adnan Abdulsamad however said the government policy which is benefiting those who do not need it and has shape. that we are living the days that the Prophet talked about,” said did not make a presentation on the financial status of the encouraged over-consumption especially power and petrol. The historical texts have become a powerful recruitment Mussab, a fighter from the Nusra Front, a Sunni hardline country because it provided no figures about the assets The lawmaker called for devising a policy according to tool, quoted across the region from religious festivals in Iraq’s group linked to Al-Qaeda, speaking from Syria. managed by Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA) or any other which subsidies will go to those who need and urged the Shiite shrine city of Kerbala to videos released by Sunni Murtada, a 27-year-old Lebanese Shiite who regularly goes figures. Kuwait bases its budget on oil income revenue but government to present its strategy on subsidies before the preachers in the Gulf, and beyond. “We have here mujahideen to Syria to battle against the rebels, says he is not fighting for does not count or include earnings from assets or invest- next term. He said that it is true that MPs are supposed to from Russia, America, the Philippines, China, Germany, Assad, but for the Mahdi, also known as the Imam. “Even if I ments held by the KIA. safeguard the prosperity of the society but this should not Belgium, Sudan, India and Yemen and other places,” said Sami, am martyred now, when he appears I will be reborn to fight Parliamentary sources said that what the government undermine the country’s finances. MP Abdulhameed Dashti a Sunni rebel fighter in northern Syria. “They are here because among his army, I will be his soldier,” he told Reuters in presented was a number of possible scenarios on Kuwait’s said that the people should understand that the sustain- this is what the Prophet said and promised, the Grand Battle is Lebanon. Murtada, who has fought in Damascus and in the financial prospects depending on the price of oil and the ability of the welfare system is possible only when spending happening.” decisive battle last year for the border town of Qusair, leaves rapid rise in current spending, especially wages and subsi- is rationalized and squandering of public funds is stopped. Both sides emphasize the ultimate goal of establishing an his wife and two children when he goes to fight in Syria: dies which more than trebled during the past seven years. He however added that the government should also Islamic state which will rule the world before total chaos. “Nothing is more precious than the Imam, even my family. It is The government warned that spending cannot continue to stop squandering public funds and called for more cooper- Although some Sunni and Shiite clerics are privately skeptical our duty.” grow at a very fast pace - reiterating early warnings that the ation between the Assembly and the government on the of the religious justifications for the war, few in the region Syria’s civil war built upon sectarian conflicts elsewhere, country will start facing an actual budget deficit in less than critical issue. But opposition MP Riyad Al-Adasani wondered express such reservations in public for fear of being misinter- especially in Iraq and Lebanon, leading to a growing sense 10 years if spending continued to rise. that if the state budget is facing a deficit why it has been preted as doubters of the prophecies. “Yes some of the signs across the region that all those power struggles in individual The government made similar warnings at the start of providing generous aid to other countries. He also said that are similar but these signs could apply at any time after the countries were part of a titanic battle for the future. Abbas, a the current parliamentary term, telling MPs that the welfare there can be no free economy in Kuwait in the presence of fall of the Islamic state (1,000 years ago),” one Sunni Muslim 24-year-old Iraqi Shiite fighter, said he knew he was living in system in the country was not sustainable. Head of the monopoly, adding that the government is fully backing pri- scholar in Lebanon said, asking that he not be identified. the era of the Mahdi’s return when the United States and financial and economic affairs committee MP Faisal Al- vate projects without complaining it is making a loss. “There is no way to confirm we are living those times. We have Britain invaded Iraq in 2003. — Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 ANALYSIS
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Issues West stumbles as autocratic force trumps economics
By David Rohde
quarter-century after the fall of the Soviet Union, authoritarian rulers such as Vladimir Putin and Bashar AAl-Assad are showing they can and will defy interna- tional norms, suppress dissent and use military force. American policymakers are struggling with how to respond. “It’s a big philosophical question about how to deal with a strong state with anti-Western and autocratic proclivities,” said Michael McFaul, the most recent American ambassador to Moscow. “I would say on that score we are kind of confused as a country.” Citing the sweeping unpopularity of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, American officials have embraced economic sanctions as their primary means of pressuring foreign govern- ments. In an interconnected, 21st-century global economy, Russia, US negotiate the future of Ukraine President Barack Obama argues, economic sanctions are more powerful than ever. By George Friedman Action in the Baltics is possible; more assertive actions that it really learned in the Cold War. But it is more States is not clear on what it wants If Russia continues on its current course, Obama warned last the Kremlin could encourage does not want to undertake. Berlin is than that. If the Russians want to from the Russians. In part it wants to week, “the isolation will deepen, sanctions will increase and uring the Cold War, US secre- Russian minorities to go into the very busy trying to stabilize the reach a solution to the Ukrainian create a constitutional democracy in there will be more consequences for the Russian economy.” He taries of state and Soviet for- streets. But the Baltics are in NATO, European Union and hold together problem that protects their national Ukraine. The Russians actually do not may be proven right. Over the course of 2014, the threat of eco- Deign ministers routinely and the response would be unpre- Southern and Central Europe in the interests without forcing them object to that so long as Ukraine nomic sanctions may result in Putin backing down in Crimea negotiated the outcome of crises dictable. The Russians want to hold face of massive economic disloca- beyond a level of risk they consider does not join NATO or the European and Ukraine. And historic sanctions against Iran - which slashed and the fate of countries. It has been their sphere of influence in Ukraine tion and the emergence of an acceptable, the only country they Union, but the Russians are also oil sales and cut the country off from the world banking system - a long time since such talks have without breaking commercial and increasingly visible radical right. It can talk to is the United States. There aware that building a constitutional could produce an accord that halts Iran’s nuclear program. If not, occurred, but last week a feeling of political ties with Europe, particular- does not need a duel with Russia. is no single figure in Europe who democracy in Ukraine is a vast and a 16th-century Machiavellian truism will re-assert its dominance: deja vu overcame me. Americans ly with Germany. Russian troops The Germans also receive a third of speaks for the European states on a possibly futile undertaking. They The party most willing to decisively use force will prevail over a and Russians negotiated over every- moving into the Baltics would chal- their energy from Russia. This is of matter of this importance. The British know that the government is built noncommittal opponent. one’s head to find a way to defuse lenge Russia’s relationship with mutual benefit, but the Germans are speak for the British, the French for on dangerously shifting economic “What we’ve seen with Assad and Putin is a willingness to the crisis in Ukraine and, in the Europe. Negotiations to relieve the not certain that Russia will see the the French, the Germans for the and social sands. There are parts of smile at international norms and pursue power politics regard- course of that, shape its fate. crisis make sense for the Russians mutual benefits during a crisis. It is a Germans and the Poles for the Poles. the U.S. government that are con- less of the cost,” said Andrew Weiss, a Russia expert at the During the talks, US President because of the risks involved in risk the Germans cannot afford to In negotiating with the Europeans, cerned with Russia emerging as a Carnegie Endowment and former official in the George HW Barack Obama made it clear that potential actions and because they take. If Germany is cautious, howev- you must first allow the Europeans to regional hegemon, and there are Bush and Clinton administrations. “And if the West is not united Washington has no intention of think they can recover their influ- er the passions in the region flow, negotiate among themselves. After parts of the US government still and America’s interests are not immediately threatened, the expanding NATO into either Ukraine ence in Ukraine after the economic the Central Europeans must be cau- negotiations, individual countries-or obsessed with the Middle East that response immediately becomes attenuated.” How to respond or Georgia. The Russians have stated crunch hits and they begin doling tious as well. Poland cannot simply perhaps the European Union-might, see the Russians as challengers in has already become an issue in the 2016 presidential race. In that they have no intention of any out cash to ease the pain. disregard Germany, for example. for example, send monitors. But the region, while others see them as the weeks since Putin sent Russian troops into Crimea, further military operations in The United States might create bilat- Europe is an abstraction when it potential partners. Republican senators Rand Paul, Ted Cruz and Paul Ryan all criti- Ukraine. Conversations between The US perspective eral relations in the region, as I sug- comes to power politics. As sometimes happens in the cized Obama’s response. But none of them called for an Russian Foreign Minister Sergei The United States sees the gested would happen in due course, The Russians called the United States, there is complex ideo- American intervention in Ukraine. Lavrov and US Secretary of State Russians as having two levers. but for the moment, the Americans Americans because they understood logical and institutional diversity. The John Kerry have been extensive and Militarily, the Russians are stronger are not ready to act at all, let alone in that whatever the weakness of the State Department and Defense Economic connections ongoing. For different reasons, nei- than the Americans in their region. a region where two powers-Russia United States at this moment and in Department rarely see anything the Fiona Hill, a Russia expert at the Brookings Institution and a ther side wants the crisis to contin- The United States had no practical and Germany-might oppose this place, the potential power of the same way, and different offices of former National Intelligence Council official, said those who ue, and each has a different read on each have competing views, and believed the collapse of the Soviet Union signified the triumph the situation. then there is Congress. That makes of Western democratic capitalism were deluding themselves. the United States in some ways as A large number of Russians remained deeply skeptical of Russian perspective difficult to deal with as the Western norms. “It was only a very small elite around Yeltsin The Russians are convinced that Europeans. But it also opens oppor- who were buying this,” she said. “Too many people the uprising in Kiev was fomented tunities for manipulation in the (Westerners) saw what they wanted to see, rather than what by Western intelligence services course of the negotiation. was happening.” Then the global financial crisis strengthened a supporting nongovernmental Still, in cases of the highest perception in parts of the world that Western democracy was organizations and that without this, national significance, whatever the failing - both politically and economically, Hill added. Shadi the demonstrations would have diversity in views, in the end the Hamid, a Middle East expert at the Brookings Institution’s died out and the government would president or some other dominant Saban Center, said Obama’s decision to not intervene in Syria have survived. This is not a new nar- figure can speak authoritatively. In after last September’s chemical weapons attack created a per- rative on the Russians’ part. They this case it appears to be Kerry who, ception of American weakness. Strongmen, such as Egypt’s also claimed that the Orange buffeted by the divergent views on military ruler, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, had been emboldened. Revolution had the same roots. The human rights and power politics, can “They think they can get away with more than ever,” Hamid West denies this. What is important still speak for the only power that said. “And this is tied to a growing sense of weakness under the is that the Russians believe this. That can enter into an agreement and Obama administration, whether it’s fair or unfair.” Obama means that they believe that create the coalition in Europe and in administration officials deny that. They argue that another Western intelligence has the ability Kiev to accept the agreement. Russia costly intervention in the Middle East would further weaken to destabilize Ukraine and potential- suffered a massive reversal after for- the American economy. And they contend that economic and ly other countries in the Russian mer Ukrainian President Viktor technological strength - not brute force alone - will be the sphere of influence, or even Russia Yanukovich fell. It acted not so much dominant source of power for decades to come. SIMFEROPOL: A woman walks past a trainload of Ukrainian tanks which are set to leave itself. This makes the Russians wary Crimean peninsular near the Crimean capital Simferopol. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin to reverse the defeat as to shape per- Steven Pifer, a former American ambassador to Ukraine and ceptions of its power. Moscow’s of US power. has ordered last week all weapons and hardware left by the Ukrainian military after Crimea’s now a fellow at the Brookings Institution, argued that econom- The Russians also are not con- power is real but insufficient to ic inter-connectedness will have an impact on Putin. Pifer said vinced that they have to do any- accession to Russia to be returned to Ukraine. —AFP directly reverse events by occupying the Russian leader knows he needs trade with the outside thing. Apart from their theory on military options in Crimea, just as American action. United States is substantially greater Kiev. It will need to use Ukraine’s eco- world. “While the West may rule out the military option,” Pifer Western intelligence, they know they had none in Georgia in 2008. Washington, like Moscow, has than theirs. On a matter of such sig- nomic weakness, political fragmen- wrote in an email, “it has other tools, including political isola- that the Ukrainians are fractious and The United States would take limited options. Even assuming the nificance to the Russians, failing to tation and time to try to reassert its tion and financial sanctions that could inflict serious pain on that mounting an uprising is very months to build up forces in the Russian claim about US influence via deal with the United States would be position. the Russian economy.” Weiss, the Carnegie expert, argued that different than governing. The event of a major conflict in Eurasia. nongovernmental organizations is dangerous, and dealing with them In order to do this, it needs a Russia and Syria represent vastly different situations. Russia is Russians have raised the price of Preparation for Desert Storm took true, they have played that card and first would be the best path to solv- negotiated solution that it hopes will far more economically connected to the world than Syria, he natural gas by 80 percent for six months, and the invasion of Iraq it will be difficult to play again as ing the problem. be superseded by events. To have said. And Putin is not accused of killing thousands of his peo- Ukraine, and the International in 2003 took similar preparation. austerity takes hold. Therefore, the A US-Russian agreement on that solution, Moscow needs a signif- ple and displacing millions in a bid to hold onto power, like Monetary Fund’s bailout of With such a time frame the Russians latest events are logical. The defusing the crisis likely would bring icant negotiating partner. The United Assad. But Weiss said he was unsure that economic sanctions Ukrainian sovereign debt carries would have achieved their aims and Russians have turned to the the Germans and the rest into the States is the only one available. And alone would stop the Russian leader. “He’s thinking about with it substantial social and eco- the only option the Americans Americans to discuss easing the cri- deal. Germany wants a solution that for all its complexity and oddities, if it things in a very shrewd, pure-power way. “What leverage do nomic pain. As this pain sets in this would have would be an impossible sis, asking for the creation of a feder- does not disrupt relations with can be persuaded to act, it alone can we have against Putin?” he asked. “That’s why people are summer, and the romantic recollec- one: mounting an invasion of ation in Ukraine, and there have Russia and does not strain relations provide the stable platform that somewhat stumped about what to do.” In the case of Iran, tion of the uprising fades, the Russian-held territory. been suggestions of monitors being with Central Europe. The Germans Russia now needs. The United States years of false claims from officials regarding its nuclear pro- Russians expect a backlash against The Americans do not want the deployed as well. need good relations with the Central is not ready to concede that it has gram finally prompted Europe to agree sweeping economic the West and also will use their own Russians to exercise military options, Europeans in the context of the entered a period during which com- sanctions that rebounded on Europe more than on the United influence, overt and covert, to shape because it would reveal the US Significance of negotiations European Union. The Americans petition with Russia will be a defin- States. Barring a Russian military incursion deeper into the Ukrainian government. inability to mount a timely response. What is most interesting in this is want good relations, but have little ing element in its foreign policy. Its Ukraine, “the Europeans are not willing to go farther,” he said. Seizing eastern Ukraine would cut It would also reveal weaknesses in that with the next act being played dependence on Central Europe at internal logic is not focused on “They’re happy to compartmentalize and go back to business against this strategy. The Russians NATO. The Americans also do not out, the Russians and Americans the moment. Thus, the Americans Russia, nor are internal bureaucratic as usual.” —Reuters want the pro-Russian regions voting want to test the Germans since they have reached out to each other. The potentially can give more than the interests aligned. in Ukrainian elections, sending a don’t know which way Berlin will Russians have talked to the Europeans, even if the Europeans There is an argument to be made strong opposition to Kiev. Slicing off move. In a sense, the Germans Europeans, of course, but as discus- could have organized themselves to that it is not in the US interest to end all or part of eastern Ukraine would began the crisis by confronting the sions reach the stage of defining the negotiate. Finally, the United States the Ukrainian crisis, that allowing All articles appearing on these be irrational. Other options for the Ukrainians’ refusal to proceed with future and options, Lavrov calls Kerry has global interests that the Russians Russia to go deeper into the pages are the personal opinion of Russians are not inviting. There has an EU process and by supporting and Kerry answers the phone. This can affect. Iran is the most obvious Ukrainian morass will sap its strength been talk of action in Moldova from one of the leaders of the uprising tells us something important on how one. Thus, the Russians can link and abort the emerging competition the writers. Kuwait Times takes no Transdniestria. both before and after the protests. the world works. I have laid out the issues in Ukraine to issues in Iran to before it really starts. But the United responsibility for views expressed But while it is possible for Russian But since then, the Germans have weakness of both countries, but even extract a better deal with the United States operates by its own process, therein. Kuwait Times invites read- forces there to act in Moldova, sup- fallen increasingly quiet and the per- in the face of this weakness, the States. A negotiation with the United and it is not yet ready to think in plies for the region run through son they supported, Vitali Klitschko, Russians know that they cannot States has a minimal economic com- terms of weakening Russia, and giv- ers to voice their opinions. Please Ukraine. In the event of a conflict, has dropped out of the race for the extract themselves from the crisis ponent and maximum political and en the United States’ relative isola- send submissions via email to: opin- the Russians must assume that the Ukrainian presidency. The Germans without American cooperation, and military components. There are tion, postponement is not a bad idea. [email protected] or via snail Ukrainians would deny access. The have pulled back. the United States understands that it places where the United States Therefore, the negotiations show mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. Russians could possibly force their The Germans do not want a little will need to deal with the Russians wants Russian help on these sorts of promise. But more important, the way in, but then a measured action Cold War to break out. Constant and cannot simply impose an out- issues. They can deal. Russians have shown us the way the The editor reserves the right to edit in Moldova would result in an inva- conflict to their east would exacer- come as it sometimes did in the world still works. When something any submission as necessary. sion of Ukraine-and put the Russians bate the European Union’s instabili- region in the 1990s. Divergent US concerns must get done, the number to call is back where they started. ty and could force Germany into Part of this might be habits Most important, the United still in the United States. —Stratfor WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 SPORTS
Evans given doping ban S Korea probes federations Wawrinka targets Davis Cup GENEVA: Australian Open champion Stanislas Wawrinka acknowledges that Switzerland has its LAGOS: Lee Evans, the double Olympic champion whose world track records at the SEOUL: South Korea’s sports ministry has launched a probe into seven best chance in years to win a first Davis Cup title. 1968 Games stood for 20 years, has been banned from coaching for four years for winter sports federations in a bid to uncover any illegal activities and “We all know that we have a good opportunity, especially since Roger is playing and I am play- providing a minor in Nigeria with performance-enhancing substances, the coun- recover public trust in the organisations ahead of the 2018 ing,” Wawrinka said yesterday, ahead of a home quarterfinal against Kazakhstan. try’s athletics federation said. Evans, 67, was working as an athletics consultant for Pyeongchang Olympic Games. The tie opens on Friday in Geneva on an indoor hard-court, with Wawrinka ranked No. 3 and the Lagos state government and gave substances to the girl at a training camp last The ministry said in a statement on Tuesday the probe would look year that “may have been responsible” for her failing a doping test, the Athletics into the activities of the skating, ice hockey, curling, skiing, biathlon, Roger Federer rising again to No. 4. Kazakhstan’s best-ranked player is No. 56 Federation of Nigeria said in a statement on Monday. The federation’s bobsleigh/skeleton and luge federations and seek the cooperation of Mikhail Kukushkin. The winner faces Britain or Italy in September. The anti-doping committee banned another coach for life for tak- the police and prosecution if it uncovered any evidence of corruption. Swiss, who won the first-round tie in Serbia, would have another ing the same young athlete to a doctor, who injected her South Korean sport has been embroiled in several controversies home tie if Italy is the semifinal opponent. with an unknown substance which caused her to col- relating to the Sochi Winter Games in February, including the circum- Switzerland last reached a Davis Cup semi 11 years ago, when lapse, the AFN said. The AFN did not name the athlete stances surrounding the defection of short track speed skater Viktor Federer lost a key five-setter against Australia’s Lleyton Hewitt. because she was a minor, it said. A third man was Ahn, formerly Ahn Hyun-soo, to Russia. There have also been allega- It is 22 years since the Swiss lost the final to a stellar United cleared of wrongdoing in the doping investigation. In tions of physical abuse and sexual harassment levelled at members of States team of Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Jim Courier and John a statement, the AFN said Evans claimed he gave the the coaching staff in the national set-up. The sports ministry said that McEnroe. “We are not thinking already to the final,” Wawrinka cau- girl “supplements” for her “health” in February and with the home Winter Games just four years away, the role of the feder- tioned, though adding: “We are, on paper, big favorites for this March 2013 and that they were not prohibited. The ations was becoming increasingly important.”However, we have heard weekend.” With most tickets sold for Friday’s opening singles, four-member disciplinary panel found he provided continuing allegations of misconduct, as well as complaints such as sus- Wawrinka can expect a hero’s welcome in his first home match her with performance-enhancing substances picions surrounding Ahn Hyun-soo’s failure to make it to the national since winning his first Grand Slam title in January. “For sure, and banned him for four years from Feb. team, recent sexual harassment allegations within the curling team it’s going to be amazing especially after my beginning and... accusations that violence was used by coaching staff in the luge 17. The federation did not name the of the year,” Wawrinka said. “First (Davis Cup) quarter- team, therefore we are losing trust in sports organisations,” it said in a substances for which the girl tested final for me, playing in Geneva in front of 16,000. I’m statement. —Reuters positive. —AP excited for that.” —AP Brewers blank Braves
MILWAUKEE: Brewers star Ryan Braun Emilio Bonifacio went 4 for 5 for drew a standing ovation in his return from Chicago, but the Cubs were 0 for 11 with a drug suspension, then was ruled out in runners in scoring position and wasted a the first call overturned under baseball’s fine start by Jeff Samardzija, who scattered expanded replay system as Milwaukee beat five hits over seven innings. the Atlanta Braves 2-0 on Monday in a sea- son opener. MARLINS 10, ROCKIES 1 Braun went 1 for 4 and stole a base in Jose Fernandez struck out nine and the fourth inning that helped set up a two- allowed one run in six innings, and Marlins run double by Aramis Ramirez. A smatter- newcomer Casey McGehee drove in four ing of boos during Braun’s first at-bat was runs with two doubles to help Miami beat easily drowned out by the overwhelming the Rockies. applause. The former MVP was suspended The sellout crowd of 37,116 was the for the final 65 games last year in the largest yet at Marlins Park, which opened Biogenesis doping scandal. Later, Braun two years ago. The 21-year-old Fernandez had his infield single to lead off the sixth earned the victory while becoming the overturned to out after the call was chal- youngest NL opening-day starter since lenged by Braves manager Fredi Gonzalez Dwight Gooden in 1986, according to under Major League Baseball’s new replay STATS. format. Marcell Ozuna homered, doubled, sin- The review took 58 seconds. Yovani gled and scored twice. Giancarlo Stanton Gallardo (1-0) tossed six shutout innings for had an RBI infield single and a run-scoring the win. Making his first opening day start, double. Adeiny Hechavarria singled three Julio Teheran (0-1) allowed two runs and times and drove in a run. seven hits in six innings. Carlos Gonzalez homered for the Rockies in the sixth, but by then they CARDINALS 1, REDS 0 trailed 6-0. Jorge De La Rosa (0-1) allowed Yadier Molina’s homer broke a seventh- five runs in 4 1-3 innings in his first opening inning tie, leading St. Louis Cardinals to a day start. victory over the Reds. Adam Wainwright (1- 0) used his refined sinker to finally get the NATIONALS 9, METS 7 best of the Reds, who have hit him like no Anthony Rendon hit a three-run homer other team. Wainwright allowed three hits in the 10th inning and drove in a career- in seven innings, fanning nine. high four runs, twice rallying the Nationals St. Louis escaped a threat in the eighth. against the Mets’ suspect bullpen for an Trevor Rosenthal retired all three batters in opening-day victory. the ninth, finishing a three-hitter for the Denard Span hit a tying double with defending National League champions. two outs in the ninth off closer Bobby Bryan Price lost his managing debut Parnell, and Ian Desmond put the Nationals with Cincinnati, which opened the season in front for the first time with a sacrifice fly with eight players on the disabled list, its in the 10th. Rendon connected two batters most since 2007. Johnny Cueto (0-1) later against former Washington pitcher allowed three hits in seven innings. John Lannan, securing a win for Matt Williams in his first game as a major league ARLINGTON: Tanner Scheppers No. 52 of the Texas Rangers throws the first pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning PIRATES 1, CUBS 0 manager. during the MLB opening day game at Globe Life Park. —AFP Neil Walker homered off Carlos Stephen Strasburg struck out 10 over six Villanueva leading off the 10th inning as innings in his third straight opening-day the Pirates benefited from an overturned to start. Juan Lagares and Andrew Brown call to beat the Cubs 1-0 on opening day. both homered for New York after they were Phillies thrash Rangers Reliever Bryan Morris (1-0) won with the surprise additions to the lineup. help of an overturned pickoff call in the top Aaron Barrett (1-0) struck out two in a ARLINGTON: Jimmy Rollins hit a grand slam and TIGERS 4, ROYALS 3 Nolasco (0-1), who gave up five runs and 10 hits in of the 10th under Major League Baseball’s perfect inning to win his major league pinch-hitter John Mayberry Jr. had a two-run Alex Gonzalez drove in the winning run in his six innings in his Twins debut. new replay system. Starter Francisco Liriano debut. Jeurys Familia (0-1) took the loss, double that put the Philadelphia ahead to stay in Detroit debut, lining a single to left off Greg and four relievers combined for 11 strike- hurt by catcher Travis d’Arnaud’s passed a wild opening 14-10 victory over the Texas Holland in the ninth. Acquired by Detroit in late MARINERS 10, ANGELS 3 outs. ball. —AP Rangers on Monday. Marlon Byrd and Cody March following an injury to shortstop Jose Abraham Almonte hit a tiebreaking RBI dou- Asche also homered for the Phillies, who scored Iglesias, Gonzalez made a costly error in Kansas ble in the seventh inning and Felix Hernandez their most runs in an opener since beating the City’s three-run fourth but made up for that with struck out 11 in the new-look Mariners victory Boston Beaneaters 19-17 in 1900. a tying triple in the seventh. He then singled with over the Angels. Robinson Cano went 2 for 4 Cliff Lee (1-0) matched his career high by men on first and third in the ninth, giving Brad with a double and an intentional walk in the allowing eight runs and struck out only one, but Ausmus a win in his first game since replacing $240 million second baseman’s debut for new the left-hander made it through five innings. Jim Leyland as the Tigers’ manager. Seattle manager Lloyd McClendon. Tanner Scheppers, the first pitcher since Joe Nathan (1-0) pitched a scoreless ninth in Justin Smoak hit a three-run homer and Fernando Valenzuela for the 1981 Los Angeles his first appearance for the Tigers. Wade Davis (0- Dustin Ackley had a bases-clearing triple while Dodgers in 1981 to make his first big league 1) allowed a one-out walk to Alex Avila and a sin- the Mariners batted around in the ninth inning. start on opening day, gave up seven runs over gle to Nick Castellanos in the ninth. Mike Trout hit a two-run homer in the first four innings, including the slam by Rollins that Holland - who had 47 saves in 50 chances last inning and Albert Pujols had a run-scoring made it 6-0 in the second. Mayberry had his year - couldn’t escape the jam as the Royals lost double for the Angels. Hernandez (1-0) gave tiebreaking hit in the fifth off Pedro Figueroa (0- their sixth straight opener. up four hits over six innings in his seventh 1) for a 9-7 lead. opening day start for the Mariners. He outdu- RAYS 9, BLUE JAYS 2 eled Jered Weaver (0-1), who yielded six hits ORIOLES 2. RED SOX 1 David Price (1-0) allowed two runs and six hits and three walks. Nelson Cruz celebrated his Baltimore debut over 7 1-3 innings to beat R.A. Dickey in a by hitting a tiebreaking homer in the seventh off matchup of 2012 Cy Young pitching award win- INDIANS 2, ATHLETICS 0 Jon Lester (0-1), sending World Series champion ners. Matt Joyce drove in three runs for the Rays Nyjer Morgan hit a go-ahead sacrifice fly in Boston to an opening loss. with a sacrifice fly and two-run double off Dickey the ninth inning against new Athletics closer Signed as a free agent in February, Cruz hit 27 (0-1), who yielded six two-out runs in five Jim Johnson as the Indians sent Oakland to its homers last year with Texas during a season innings. Toronto’s Jose Reyes left the lineup after major league-record 10th straight opening marred by a 50-game suspension stemming his first at-bat because of a tight left hamstring. loss. MILWAUKEE: Dan Uggla No. 26 of the Atlanta Braves flies out to left field in from an investigation of performance-enhanc- Nick Swisher added an RBI single against the top of the fourth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers during opening ing drugs. After missing two seasons recovering WHITE SOX 5, TWINS 3 Johnson (0-1), who was then pulled from his day at Miller Park. —AFP from knee surgery, Boston center fielder Grady Alejandro De Aza hit two homers, and Jose A’s debut. In the sixth, crew chief Mike Sizemore marked his return from a 922-day Abreu had two hits in his major league debut. Winters became the first umpire to initiate a absence with a second-inning single for his first Chicago’s Paul Konerko got a loud ovation before review under the expanded replay system, MLB results/standings hit since September 2011. The three-time All-Star what was likely his final opener, although he wasn’t making the call after a collision at home in the lineup. The White Sox are coming off a 63-99 plate. Winters requested the review on a Pittsburgh 1, Chicago Cubs 0 (10 innings); Detroit 4, Kansas City 3; Washington 9, NY for Cleveland later hit his first home run since July 15, 2011, also at Camden Yards. Zach Britton season, their poorest record since 1970. close play that kept Cleveland from breaking Mets 7 (10 Innings); Philadelphia 14, Texas 10; Milwaukee 2, Atlanta 0; Baltimore 2, (1-0) pitched two scoreless innings, and Tommy Chris Sale (1-0) allowed three runs and five hits a scoreless tie. The call was confirmed in 59 Boston 1; St. Louis 1, Cincinnati 0; Chicago White Sox 5, Minnesota 3; Tampa Bay 9, Hunter worked the ninth for his first save. in 7 1-3 innings with eight strikeouts to beat Ricky seconds. Cody Allen (1-0) got the win. —AP Toronto 2; Miami 10, Colorado 1; San Francisco 9, Arizona 8; Seattle 10, LA Angels 3; Cleveland 2, Oakland 0. Stopping Bulls’ key for Hurricanes in Napier American League National League Eastern Division Eastern Division WELLINGTON: If the Wellington Hurricanes had peting in the air is one way of stopping it, so I flyhalf Jacques-Louis Potgieter kicks them down W L PCT GB Washington 1 0 1.000 - any clue how to negate the ‘truck-and-trailer’ think we’ll have to be really on to it with that.” field. Baltimore 1 0 1.000 - Philadelphia 1 0 1.000 - lineout drive employed by South Africa’s Bulls While the efficiency at their lineout drive is a With territorial gains, former Springboks lock Tampa Bay 1 0 1.000 - Miami 1 0 1.000 - this season, they were not letting on ahead of concern for the Hurricanes, the Chiefs managed Victor Matfield, who rejoined the team after NY Yankees 0 0 0 0.5 NY Mets 0 1 0 1 their Super Rugby clash in Napier on Saturday. to battle back from a 16-point deficit to draw retiring following the 2011 World Cup, then Toronto 0 1 0 1 Atlanta 0 1 0 1 The Bulls’ set-piece, resembling the kind of the game 34-34 and gave a hint on how to comes into his own as a world class poacher to Boston 0 1 0 1 lengthy, blue road-train seen barrelling along exploit the Bulls late in the match. put pressure on the opposition lineout. Central Division the dusty highways of Australia’s ‘Outback’, Pace out wide and quick interchanges Matfield also wins his own ball more often Central Division Milwaukee 1 0 1.000 - resulted in two tries against the Waikato Chiefs between players in support allowed them to than not. The 36-year-old Matfield is third in Cleveland 1 0 1.000 - last weekend and has left opposition coaches score three tries in the final 11 minutes. lineout takes this season with 27, behind the Pittsburgh 1 0 1.000 - Chicago White Sox 1 0 1.000 - scratching their heads as to how to counter it. The Hurricanes may be well placed to emu- ACT Brumbies’ Ben Mowen (34) and Auckland St. Louis 1 0 1.000 - Detroit 1 0 1.000 - Flanker Deon Stegmann scored one of the late the Chiefs. The Wellington-based side, Blues’ Steven Luatua (28). Matfield’s locking Kansas City 0 1 0 1 Chicago Cubs 0 1 0 1 tries, while the second was awarded by referee despite having won just two of their six games, partner Flip van Der Merwe has grabbed 20. Minnesota 0 1 0 1 Cincinnati 0 1 0 1 Craig Joubert after the Chiefs collapsed the are the most potent attackers in the competi- The Hurricanes, however, showed last week drive metres before Stegmann crashed over for tion. against the Canterbury Crusaders they were Western Division Western Division what would have been a certain try. They are equal first in tries scored (20), first in more than a match at the set-piece and compet- Seattle 1 0 1.000 - San Diego 1 0 1.000 - “I had a quick look at their game on the clean breaks (52), defenders beaten (146), car- itive from the start after starting slowly in their Houston 0 0 0 0.5 San Francisco 1 0 1.000 - weekend and it’s no secret what they bring,” ries (736) and total metres gained (2928). defeat to the Highlanders the previous round. LA Angels 0 1 0 1 LA Dodgers 2 1 .667 - Hurricanes lock James Broadhurst told In contrast the Bulls are 10th, 14th, 15th, “We were right in it from the start and the Oakland 0 1 0 1 Colorado 0 1 0 1 reporters. 13th and 14th in the respective categories. result looked after itself,” Hurricanes assistant Texas 0 1 0 1 Arizona 0 3 0 2 “We’ll have to be pretty sharp with our line- Instead, the Pretoria-based side rely on their coach Alama Ieremia told reporters. “It’s a big out defence and our counter drive (and) ... com- massive pack to bash their way forward before shift.” —Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 SPORTS Spurs rout slumping Pacers
INDIANAPOLIS: Tony Parker scored and then closed the half on a 22-9 Williams hit two crucial 3-point- Conference. Memphis plays both 22 points in the San Antonio Spurs’ run to take the lead and never ers from the corner in the closing teams once more - at the Suns on club-record 18th straight victory, a trailed again. minutes as the Hawks bounced April 14 and home against the 103-77 rout of the slumping back from an early 14-point deficit. Mavericks in the regular-season Indiana Pacers on Monday. BOBCATS 100, WIZARDS 94 The 76ers were coming off a vic- finale two days later. Boris Diaw added 14 points for Kemba Walker and Al Jefferson tory over Detroit, snapping an NBA The rest of the schedule the Spurs, who bettered their previ- each had a double-double as record-tying streak of 26 consecu- includes road games at Minnesota ous longest winning streak that Charlotte rallied from an 11-point, tive losses. But they couldn’t win and San Antonio, and a home game was set from Feb. 19 through March fourth-quarter deficit to beat two in a row for the first time since with Miami, which is battling for 31, 1996. Washington, preventing the Jan. 4. the top seed in the Eastern Paul George scored 16 points for Wizards from clinching their first Conference. Courtney Lee scored the Pacers, who have lost six of sev- playoff berth since 2008. Walker fin- KNICKS 92, JAZZ 83 19 points for Memphis, which en and their once seemingly safe ished with 21 points and 10 assists, Carmelo Anthony scored 34 stopped a two-game skid. three-game lead over Miami for the and Jefferson had 19 points and 11 points on 11-of-19 shooting as the Eastern Conference’s top seed. rebounds despite needing seven New York Knicks pulled away for CLIPPERS 114, While the Spurs (58-16) can’t stitches in the first half to close a victory over the Utah Jazz that kept TIMBERWOLVES 104 seem to lose right now, Indiana (52- gash above his right eye. them one game back of the final Darren Collison had 28 points 23), which had the best record in The Wizards came in looking to Eastern Conference playoff berth. and seven assists as Los Angeles the Eastern Conference since open- snap the third-longest playoff Tyson Chandler added 15 points didn’t miss a beat with Blake Griffin ing night, finished March with an 8- drought in the NBA, and led by 16 and nine rebounds, while J.R. Smith out with a back injury against SOUTH BEND: Notre Dame forward Natalie Achonwa reacts as she has difficulty 9 record. at the half and 11 with 9:13 left in scored 13 points and Raymond Minnesota. removing the net from the rim after beating Baylor 88-69 in their NCAA the game. But Walker scored nine Felton chipped in 12 points and six Chris Paul had 22 points, nine women’s college basketball tournament regional final game. —AP HEAT 93, RAPTORS 83 points in the final quarter, helping assists to help New York (32-43) fin- assists and seven rebounds, and LeBron James scored 32 points the Bobcats pull within two games ish 3-2 on its western trip. Matt Barnes scored 19 points for and Chris Bosh added 18 as Miami of Washington in the race for the Gordon Hayward scored 18 the Clippers (53-22). Griffin, the Notre Dame defeat Baylor moved into the top spot in the sixth seed in the Eastern points, Alec Burks added 17 off the team’s leading scorer, warmed up SOUTH BEND: Muffet McGraw and Notre with a lot of great players. This season is Eastern Conference with a victory Conference playoffs. bench and Derrick Favors chipped before the game but wasn’t quite Dame have become fixtures in the Final probably my most enjoyable. I like the team over Toronto. in 13 points and 13 rebounds for ready after being injured on Four. But with Skylar Diggins gone to the I’ve been around.” Chris Andersen scored 13 points HAWKS 103, 76ERS 95 the Jazz (23-52), who lost for the Saturday night against Houston. WNBA, it was hard to imagine the Irish The victory extended Notre Dame’s on 5-for-5 shooting and Mario Paul Millsap scored 28 points 16th time in their last 18 contests. Jared Dudley started in his place would make it back this season, let alone go home winning streak to 28 games. Baylor Chalmers added 12 for Miami, and Lou Williams added 22 off the and scored 16 points, while undefeated in the process. Yet they are, was the last team to beat the Irish in South which was again without Dwyane bench, rallying Atlanta to a victory GRIZZLIES 94, NUGGETS 92 DeAndre Jordan grabbed a career- beating Baylor 88-69 Monday night to Bend - doing so on Dec. 5, 2012 - but that Wade, Greg Oden and Ray Allen. that denied Philadelphia its first Zach Randolph had 20 points high 24 rebounds to help the return to the national semifinals. “It means team had 6-foot-8 star Brittney Griner. Miami (51-22, .699) moved per- winning streak in nearly three and 11 rebounds ans Mike Conley Clippers pull within two games of so much to our program. I think it’s a state- The Irish took control in the first half with centage points ahead of Indiana months. added 19 points as the Memphis Oklahoma City for the second seed ment,” McGraw said. “When Skylar (Diggins) senior Kayla McBride on the bench in early (52-23, .693), which lost at home The Hawks, clinging to the final Grizzlies kept pace in the playoff in the West. Kevin Love had 20 came in, I think people expected that we foul trouble. Trailing 21-17 midway through earlier Monday night to San playoff spot in the East, snapped a race with a win over the Denver points, 13 rebounds and four assists would be in the Final Four and then when the first half, the Irish got going behind Antonio. It’s the first time all season six-game losing streak and won for Nuggets. for the Wolves. Skylar graduated I don’t think anyone Achonwa and Loyd. Achonwa, who had a that Miami has been alone atop the only the seventh time in 27 games. The Grizzlies moved into a expected that we’d be back in the Final double-double in the first half, started a 14- East. The Heat were down 10 mid- They came into the night one game three-way tie with Dallas and BULLS 94, CELTICS 80 Four. So I think it says a lot about this team.” 0 run with a layup. Loyd then scored the way through the second quarter, ahead of the New York Knicks. Phoenix for seventh in the Western Mike Dunleavy had 22 points to Jewell Loyd scored 30 points and the next eight points, including a highlight reel lead five Bulls in double figures as unbeaten Irish continued their quest for three-point play that made it 24-21 and Chicago broke open a close game perfection in front of a raucous home whipped up the sellout crowd, which with 13 straight points at the start crowd. included Diggins. of the fourth quarter to beat “I couldn’t be prouder of this team,” said “That was huge,” McGraw said. “We need- Boston. McGraw, who is in her 27th season at Notre ed every single thing that she did. Jewell Joakim Noah had 19 points, 11 Dame. “This senior class came in unherald- felt like she could score whenever she want- rebounds and five assists, Jimmy ed and set all kind of records. To win it at ed. We were running things for her and she Butler had 18 points, Carlos Boozer home, to celebrate with our fans is special. delivered on every possession.” 16 and Taj Gibson 14 points and 11 Jewell Loyd, what a phenomenal game.” By the time Sims hit a pullup in the lane rebounds. Natalie Achonwa added 19 points and with 5:32 left the Lady Bears trailed 31-24. Chicago swept the home-and- 15 rebounds for the Irish (36-0), who will The Irish led 44-32 at the half as Loyd, who home series with the Celtics after bring a perfect record into the Final Four for earned most outstanding player of the posting a 107-102 victory in Boston the first time, facing either Louisville or region honors, finished with 21 points in on Sunday. The Celtics have lost 10 Maryland on Sunday night in Nashville. the first 20 minutes. straight on the road to drop to 8-28 The Irish did get a scare Monday when Sims rallied the Lady Bears, scoring the away from home. Their last road Achonwa hurt her left knee with just under first nine points of the second half to cut win was Feb. 10 at Milwaukee. five minutes left. McGraw said her senior the deficit to 46-41. After a Notre Dame bas- Brandon Bass and Jerryd Bayless center would have an MRI exam on Tuesday. ket Baylor was called for back-to-back offen- had 18 points apiece for the Celtics. “It sucked the air right out of the room,” sive fouls - the eighth and ninth called in McGraw said. “I don’t know what it is yet. ... the game - and coach Kim Mulkey had seen PISTONS 116, BUCKS 111 You hate to see a player go down like that.” enough, letting the officials know her dis- Greg Monroe had 28 points and It’s the fourth straight season that the pleasure. That earned her a technical foul. 14 rebounds as Detroit ended a Irish are in the national semifinals. Notre The teams traded baskets over the next three-game skid with a victory over Dame became the sixth school to reach the few minutes and Baylor closed to within 65- Milwaukee. Josh Smith scored eight Final Four in four straight seasons, joining 60 before Notre Dame took over by scoring of his 26 points during a 12-0 UConn, LSU, Stanford, Louisiana Tech and 16 of the next 20 points, including eight fourth-quarter run that wiped out a Tennessee. from the free throw line. The Irish were 30 98-92 Bucks lead and gave the The loss ended the brilliant career of for 33 from the foul line in the game. Pistons the lead for good. His 3- Baylor guard Odyssey Sims, who finished The game-changing run is when pointer with 1:11 to go and a sub- this season with 1,054 points - eight short Achonwa got hurt. She went down holding sequent dunk put the game away of Jackie Stiles’ single season NCAA record. her left knee and after a few moments got INDIANAPOLIS: Indiana Pacers center Ian Mahinmi (left) and San Antonio Spurs forward Boris in the matchup of the NBA Central Sims scored 33 points for Baylor (32-5), but up with help and pointed to her teammates Diaw battle for rebound in the first half of an NBA basketball game. —AP Division’s two worst teams. had little help on offense. Her teammates before heading to the locker room, telling Brandon Knight had 25 points were a combined 12 for 45 with no one else them to get it done. and Ramon Sessions added 20 scoring in double digits. They followed their senior leader’s NBA results/standings points and 11 assists for Milwaukee, “I had a great run. My four years, I’ve advice and came away with the victory. She which lost its 10th consecutive road enjoyed it,” Sims said. “Not one moment joined them for the celebration on the game and dropped the season have I been unhappy at Baylor. I got to play court. —AP Charlotte 100, Washington 94; San Antonio 103, Indiana 77; Atlanta 103, Philadelphia 95; Detroit 116, series 3-1 to the Pistons. Milwaukee 111; Miami 93, Toronto 83; Chicago 94, Boston 80; LA Clippers 114, Minnesota 104; Sacramento 102, New Orleans 97; Memphis 94, Denver 92; NY Knicks 92, Utah 83. KINGS 102, PELICANS 97 Michalak targets 2015 World Cup Eastern Conference Western Conference DeMarcus Cousins had 35 points and 14 rebounds as Sacramento Atlantic Division Northwest Division TOULON: Toulon playmaker Frederic World Cup in England. snapped a three-game skid by W L PCT GB Michalak’s recent run of impressive form “At 31 years of age, I have not got 10 Oklahoma City 54 19 .740 - beating New Orleans. Toronto 42 32 .568 - has left the former prodigy of French rugby years left in my career,” he said. “My goal is Portland 48 27 .640 7 Ray McCallum, starting because eyeing an outing for France in the 2015 clear: to go to the World Cup. And I don’t Brooklyn 39 33 .542 2 Minnesota 36 37 .493 18 of Isaiah Thomas’ right thigh injury, World Cup. just want to go there, but to win it.” NY Knicks 32 43 .427 10.5 Denver 32 42 .432 22.5 scored 22 points. Rudy Gay also The 31-year-old has come and gone in Michalak said he was enjoying his rugby Boston 23 51 .311 19 Utah 23 52 .307 32 scored 22, including a momentum- the French line-up over the last few years, at the moment, and happy to be staying at Philadelphia 16 58 .216 26 swinging 3-pointer after the winning 59 caps, but also opting to spend Toulon. “That’s important for me,” he said. Pacific Division Pelicans had pulled within a point two spells playing club rugby in South “I’m physically good, I no longer have any Central Division LA Clippers 53 22 .707 - in the fourth quarter. Africa in a bid to hone his skills in a differ- injury problems and that allows me to be at Indiana 52 23 .693 - Golden State 45 28 .616 7 Reggie Evans grabbed 12 ent environment. The Toulouse-born 100 percent and play without any hang- Chicago 42 32 .568 9.5 Phoenix 44 30 .595 8.5 rebounds before his ejection for an Michalak was largely ignored by Marc ups. Cleveland 30 45 .400 22 Sacramento 26 48 .351 26.5 elbow to Anthony Davis’ face on a Lievremont and left out of his 2011 World “I’m happy to be in form at this time of Detroit 27 47 .365 24.5 collision that occurred as Evans LA Lakers 25 48 .342 27 Cup squad, but his fortunes improved the season, in the final stretch. I’m loving it Milwaukee 14 60 .189 37.5 went up for a close-range shot. under new coach Philippe Saint-Andre at fly-half and, with my experience, it’s a Davis, returning from left ankle despite his inability to nail down a regular position in which I’m at ease. Southwest Division Southeast Division injury that forced him to miss a start at Toulon where he is in competition “In any case, I’m hungry to win and the Miami 51 22 .699 - San Antonio 58 16 .784 - start on Saturday, had 22 points. with English star Jonny Wilkinson. Having desire to win titles with Toulon.” He added: Washington 38 36 .514 13.5 Houston 49 23 .681 8 Anthony Morrow scored 23 points started at fly-half in Toulon’s last two “I’m chuffed to be staying with Toulon, Charlotte 36 38 .486 15.5 Dallas 44 30 .595 14 for the Pelicans, who have dropped games, Michalak is relishing the upcoming which continues to grow bigger and which Atlanta 32 41 .438 19 Memphis 44 30 .595 14 two straight on the heels of their weekend’s European Cup quarter-final has the goal of being at the highest level Orlando 21 53 .284 30.5 New Orleans 32 42 .432 26 season-high, five-game winning against Leinster, with a firm eye on making for a long time. “I also have ambitions to be streak. —AP Saint-Andre’s squad for next year’s Rugby in the running for the France team.” —AFP Toyota unveils most advanced TS040 Hybrid car in Racing DUBAI: Toyota Racing took the wraps off The new powertrain has been developed between motorsport technology and future Hybrid’s chassis is designed, developed and Toyota Racing ended its first full FIA the new TS040 Hybrid, the car which will in line with revised WEC technical regula- road cars is fundamental to Toyota, with the manufactured by Toyota Motorsport (TMG) World Endurance Championship season in take the team into the 2014 FIA World tions, which put an emphasis on fuel econo- TS040 HYBRID, like its predecessor, acting as in Cologne, Germany. It marks a major evolu- 2013 with victory in the Six Hours of Bahrain Endurance Championship (WEC) and a new my. Teams are required to use 25 per cent a real-life test bench for our latest hybrid tion of last year’s TS030 Hybrid, incorporat- race, which was the final round of the 2013 era of hybrid-powered motorsport. The new less fuel than in 2013, with savings achieved concepts and strengthening our core tech- ing design changes dictated by the new FIA World Endurance Championship. After car represents the most advanced hybrid through changes to powertrains, aerody- nology focus of developing next-generation championship regulations, including a maxi- the final race of the season, Toyota Racing’s technology in modern racing and will make namics and driving style. vehicles. Toyota has already sold 6 million mum width reduced by 10cm and the adop- 2013 total reads 152.5 points for second in its competition debut at the season-opening According to Nobuyuki Negishi, Chief hybrid road cars since the launch of our first tion of additional safety features. In terms of the Manufacturers’ Championship, two Six Hours of Silverstone race on 20 April. Representative, Middle East and North Africa mass production hybrid with the Prius in the driver lineup, Toyota Racing have shuf- wins, six podiums and three pole positions. Toyota will be taking on rival manufactur- Representative Office, Toyota Motor 1997.” Toyota Racing has made gains in effi- fled the pack of drivers for the new season, The win marked the 14th and final race for ers with a car that benefits from 480PS of all- Corporation, “Our participation at the World ciency and performance by using specialist with Alex Wurz, StÈphane Sarrazin and the TS030 HYBRID since its debut at Le Mans wheel drive hybrid boost in addition to the Endurance Championship is important as it lubricants that they have developed to suit Kazuki Nakajima sharing the No7 car and in 2012.Since then it has achieved five pole 520PS produced by its 3.7-litre V8 petrol strengthens our status as the world’s pio- TS040 engine capabilities. The more open Anthony Davidson, Nicolas Lapierre and positions and 10 podiums, including five engine, taking maximum power to 1,000PS. neering manufacturer of hybrid. Such a link regulations have also allowed the team to Sébastien Buemi piloting the No8 machine. wins. engineer a major increase in hybrid power, using a new motor-generator on the front axle in addition to the unit at the rear. Under deceleration, these motor genera- tors apply braking force in combination with the traditional mechanical brakes to harvest energy, which is then transferred via an inverter to a super-capacitor. When the car accelerates, the motor-generators reverse their function, delivering a power boost to all four wheels. The V8 engine has been engineered at the Higashfuji technical centre, the research base where Toyota’s next-generation road car technology is also developed. The TS040 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 SPORTS Devils see off Panthers
NEWARK: Travis Zajac scored the first of his career-best three goals after just 12 seconds as the New Jersey Devils held on for a 6-3 vic- tory over the Florida Panthers on Monday after nearly blowing a three-goal lead Zajac opened the barrage against Dan Ellis and then netted his second midway through New Jersey’s three-goal first period. He completed his first NHL hat trick at 9:37 of the third. Jaromir Jagr had a goal and three assists, and Ryane Clowe added a goal and two assists. Zajac also had an assist for the Devils, who are hoping a late-season rally can get them into the playoffs. New Jersey has seven games left. Jacob Josefson scored the other Devils goal, and Cory Schneider stopped all 13 Florida shots he faced after replacing Martin Brodeur in the second period when New Jersey’s lead was cut to 4-3. Brodeur stopped only six of nine shots, but was credited with the win. Dmitry Kulikov, Brad Boyes and Brandon Pirri scored for Florida, which lost for the sixth time in seven games. Ellis faced 32 shots, NEWARK: Dan Ellis No. 39 of the Florida Panthers lies on the ice after allowing Travis Zajac No. 19 including 18 in the first period. of the New Jersey Devils to score his hat-trick goal at 9:37 of the third period at the Prudential Center. —AFP SENATORS 2, HURRICANES 1 Ales Hemsky scored the only goal of the shootout as Ottawa edged Carolina. Hemsky fired a NHL results/standings shot off the post and into the net Ottawa 2, Carolina 1 (SO); New Jersey 6, Florida 3; Anaheim 5, Winnipeg 4 (OT); Minnesota 3, Los Angeles 2. PHOENIX: While posing for photographers, Karrie Webb, of Australia, smiles behind Cam Ward in the second with the winner’s trophy after winning the LPGA Founders Cup golf tourna- round to give the Senators their third straight win and fourth in fifth Western Conference Eastern Conference ment. —AP games. Atlantic Division Craig Anderson stopped all Pacific Division three Carolina shooters, including WLOTLGFGAPTS Boston 52 17 6 241 158 110 Karrie Webb is older, Montreal 43 26 7 199 189 93 Elias Lindholm with the final Anaheim 49 18 8 244 191 106 attempt, to earn the victory. Mika Tampa Bay 41 25 9 223 201 91 San Jose 47 20 9 232 184 103 wiser and still winning Zibanejad scored in regulation for Detroit 35 26 14 202 213 84 the Senators, and Anderson made Los Angeles 44 26 6 191 162 94 Toronto 36 32 8 220 239 80 CALIFORNIA: The good news for Karrie “It’s actually one of the things I’m most 30 saves. Jeff Skinner had the lone Phoenix 36 27 12 206 212 84 Ottawa 32 29 14 218 250 78 Webb is that her name doesn’t start with a proud of in my career,” Daniel said, goal for Carolina, which got 28 Vancouver 34 31 11 184 206 79 Florida 27 41 8 182 250 62 number. Beth Daniel remembers what that “because I was able to stay at a high level saves from Ward before the Calgary 31 37 7 192 223 69 Buffalo 20 45 9 142 222 49 was like. It started about the time she won for a long period of time.” And that’s what shootout. the Women’s Canadian Open to become she sees out of Webb. Edmonton 26 40 9 184 249 61 Metropolitan Division the oldest winner in LPGA Tour history, and They are close good friends, both resi- WILD 3, KINGS 2 thereafter she was referred to as “46-year- dents of South Florida, and Daniel sees the Pittsburgh 48 22 5 232 185 101 Matt Moulson and Mikko Koivu Central Division old Beth Daniel.” The number kept going up amount of time Webb puts in at the gym scored 62 seconds apart in the NY Rangers 42 30 4 205 183 88 St. Louis 50 17 7 240 168 107 until 50-year-old Beth Daniel retired in and on the golf course. Daniel is surprised third period, and Zach Parise con- Philadelphia 39 27 8 213 210 86 2007. by anyone making a fuss over Webb nected on a power play for the Colorado 47 21 6 227 202 100 Columbus 38 30 6 208 200 82 “My age became part of my name,” she already winning twice this year and being Minnesota Wild, who rallied for a Chicago 42 19 15 248 200 99 Washington 34 28 13 217 226 81 said Monday, laughing about it now. Webb No. 5 in the world. What should anyone victory that ended the Los Angeles Minnesota 39 26 11 189 191 89 New Jersey 32 28 15 184 195 79 is only 39. She is one year older than Tiger expect from a player good enough to get Kings’ six-game winning streak. Woods, four years younger than Phil into the LPGA Hall of Fame at age 30? Dallas 36 27 11 214 212 83 Carolina 32 32 11 187 210 75 Ilya Bryzgalov made 18 saves for NY Islanders 29 35 10 206 247 68 Mickelson. Unlike those two superstars Webb’s age is noteworthy only because Nashville 33 32 11 190 229 77 the Wild. It was the second time in Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point in the from the PGA Tour, Webb is healthy, win- everyone around her is so young. Consider eight games that the Kings lost in Winnipeg 33 33 10 212 225 76 standings and are not included in the loss column (L). ning and leading her tour’s money list the top 10 players in the women’s world regulation when leading after two going into the first major of the year this ranking. Two of them are teenagers (Lydia periods - something that happened week at the Kraft Nabisco Championship. Ko, 16, and Lexi Thompson, 19). Everyone only once in their previous 138 staged the biggest comeback in tion, scoring his 39th goal after lished a franchise record for most In February, Webb won for the 40th time else is in her 20s except for Suzann contests. Alec Martinez and Justin team history by rallying from four Anaheim pulled rookie goalie wins in a season. Anaheim in her LPGA career at the Women’s Pettersen, ancient at 32. The average age of Williams scored for Los Angeles, goals down to beat Winnipeg. Frederik Andersen for an extra remained atop of the Pacific Australian Open. Two weeks ago, she rallied the women’s top 10 is 26. The average age both capitalizing on turnovers by Andrew Cogliano and Luca skater. Division, three points ahead of from a six-shot deficit in Arizona to win the of the men’s top 10 is 33.5. Inkster surely defenseman Jared Spurgeon in his Sbisa assisted on Robidas’ fifth Nick Bonino cut the Ducks’ idle San Jose with a game in Founders Cup. Webb might already have spoke from her own experience when she zone. Jonathan Quick stopped 17 goal of the season. Anaheim out- deficit to 4-1 in the second peri- hand. The Ducks trail Western three wins this year if not for closing with a explained why Webb is still going strong. shots. shot the Jets 25-6 in the third od, and Ryan Getzlaf and Hampus Conference-leading St. Louis by 74 in Singapore to miss a playoff by one “You’ve got to have that desire, that pas- period and outscored them 3-0 to Lindholm scored in the third to one point. Jacob Trouba, Matt shot. sion. You’ve got to hate playing bad,” DUCKS 5, JETS 4 force overtime. set up Perry’s heroics. Andersen Halischuk, Blake Wheeler and Still, this already is the 10th multiple-win Inkster said. “Webby has that. I just think Stephane Robidas scored 16 Corey Perry tied it 4-4 with (18-5) stopped 32 shots. Eric Tangradi scored for season of her career, and the LPGA is only some people are satisfied with making seconds into overtime as Anaheim 22.7 seconds remaining in regula- The Ducks (49-18-8) estab- Winnipeg. —AP six tournaments into the 2014 season. money and getting out, and others are sat- Webb is not one for hyperbole, so she is isfied by winning. Webby has done it right. not about to say this is as good as she has She respects the game. She respects the ever played. Remember, this is a player who older players. She wears her emotions on completed the career Grand Slam quicker her sleeve and she’s hard on herself, but than anyone, male or female, by winning all she’s got a huge heart.” Al-Hafiz Jinnah XI lifts T20 Cup four majors in a span of seven starts. Webb pays enough attention to LPGA “I’ve played a lot of good golf in my history to know that Meg Mallon won a US Pakistan National Day Cricket Cup career,” she said Monday morning from the Women’s Open and two other tournaments California desert. “I can’t say what I’m doing when she was 41. And that Inkster won KUWAIT: On the occasion of the Pakistan players from various teams playing in Kuwait with team Manager Sajid Hassan. The match was now is better than another time. I think I three majors after turning 39. National Day, Pakistan Sports Association Kuwait participated in the match divided in two teams. supervised by famous umpires of Kuwait Cricket, understand my game more than I ever She still gets too hard on herself, but not organized a friendly cricket match under the Al-Hafiz Jinnah XI were led by M Naeem Jan Imran Haji and Abdul Qayyum. Saad and Daniyal have. I understand on any given day what like when she was younger. “There was a auspicious of Kuwait Cricket. The match was along with team Manager M Waseem Bajwa and were the official scorers for the Match. I’ve got for that day. And I think that allows time when I woke up every day and said, held at Sulaibiya Cricket Ground, Kuwait and PBC Iqbal XI was led by Mudassar Iqbal along The match started at 2:00 pm with Al-Hafiz me to understand how to score. I didn’t ‘How am I going to be the best in the Jinnah XI winning the toss and electing to bat. always have that ability.” world?’” she said. “Now it’s more like, ‘How They played strategically and managed to put What she has is longevity on a tour that can I be as good as I can be?’” on a massive score of 221 runs on the board is getting increasingly younger. Webb has Webb figures it will be time to walk with the loss of 6 wickets in the allotted 20 overs. won 41 times over 19 years, dating to her away when she starts to settle for less than Irfan scored 39, M Imran Khan 38 and Ali victory in the 1995 Women’s British Open that. And she’s not ready to walk away. “I Zaher remained unbeaten on 41. Omar got 2 when she was a 20-year-old out of look at some of the really great players in wickets for 27 runs. In reply, Iqbal XI started with Australia. Only five other women in LPGA the game, and one thing is different about a high moral but lost early wickets. In next 5 history have stretched out their wins over a a handful of players,” Judy Rankin said. overs Iqbal XI lost 4 more wickets and struggled longer period of time. That short list starts “They take great pleasure in being in the their way to reach the target. Iqbal XI were bun- with Daniel, who won her first LPGA event heat of the competition and winning - or dled out for a paltry 84 runs. Mudassar Iqbal in 1979 and her 33rd and final tournament trying to win - but they also take great played a captain’s inning with 24 runs to his in 2003. Kathy Whitworth (88 wins) and Juli pleasure in doing it well. And Karrie is one credit. Inkster (31 wins) went 23 years between of those people who gets a lot of satisfac- Chief Guest, Community Welfare AttachÈ their first and last wins. Inkster is still play- tion out of doing it well. And I think that’s from Embassy of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, ing at age 53, though her last win was in one thing that has kept her going for a very Noor Uddin Dawar along with the OPAC 2006. long time.” —AP Member, Chairman of Al-Hafiz Group, Hafiz M Shabbir, Paksitan Business Council President, M Arif Butt, Director General Kuwait Cricket, Asad Woods to miss Masters Baig, KPYS President, Osama Alhouli, Pakistanis In Kuwait, Atif Siddique, Director PNES, Majid LOS ANGELES: World number one Tiger the Masters. Chaudhry, PEFK Snr. Vice President, Nawaz, Woods said yesterday he would not be able “It’s a week that’s very special to me. It VOOP Media CEO Tariq Iqbal, PSA Founder and to play in the Masters after undergoing also looks like I’ll be forced to miss several director General M Irfan Adil enjoyed the thrills back surgery earlier this week to treat a upcoming tournaments to focus on my and excitement of the match. A large crowd of pinched nerve that has been troubling him rehabilitation and getting healthy. Pakistanis along with their families witnessed for several months. “It’s tough right now, but I’m absolutely the match. At the end, the prize distribution cer- “Sad to say I’m missing the Masters. optimistic about the future,” said Woods, emony was held conducted by Sr. Vice President Thanks to the fans for so many kind wishes,” who has had a succession of crippling PSA Maqbool Ahmed. Woods, a 14-time major champion chasing injuries over the last few years to his knees, He invited all the dignitaries on the Stage and the all-time record 18 majors won by Jack wrists and now back. thanked them for their unconditional support Nicklaus, said on Twitter and on his web- Woods has played in every Masters since and encouragement. Hafiz M Shabbir recited the site. It will be the first time Woods has 1995 and has become the tournament’s Verses of Holy Quran to mark the beginning of missed the Masters, which starts on star turn and biggest draw. The following the ceremony. Thursday, since he made his debut at year, he missed his only cut at Augusta Chief Guest, CWA, Noor Uddin Dawar, con- Augusta National in Georgia as an amateur National just a few months prior to turning gratulated PSA team for organizing an entertain- in 1995. pro. In 1997, in his first major champi- ing event. He emphasized that PSA should con- The surgery was performed on Monday onship as a pro, Woods won the Masters by tinue to hold such events in future to provide an in Park City, Utah, by neurosurgeon Charles a record 12 shots, the first of his 14 major healthy environment to the people residing here Rich, and the 38-year-old will require sever- titles. He went on to win the Masters in in Kuwait. al weeks rehabilitation. 2001, 2002 and 2005. PBC President, M Arif Butt said PBC would do “After attempting to get ready for the Since his last victory at Augusta, Woods its level best and continue their cooperation to Masters, and failing to make the necessary has seven top-10 finishes in eight appear- PSA Team for such events in the future. progress, I decided, in consultation with my ances and six top-5s, including last year, Certificates and medals were presented to all doctors, to have this procedure done,” when he tied for fourth, four strokes players. Mudassar Iqbal captain of PBC Iqbal XI Woods said in a statement. behind winner Adam Scott. was awarded with runner-up trophy and Al- “I’d like to express my disappointment “There are a couple [of] records by two Hafiz Jinnah XI lifted the winner’s trophy to the Augusta National membership, staff, outstanding individuals and players that I received by captain Naeem Jan. volunteers and patrons that I will not be at hope one day to break,” he added. —AFP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 SPORTS
World Twenty20 standings
DHAKA: World Twenty20 Super-10 round standings after yesterday’s matches (played, won, lost, tied, N/R, points, run-rate): Group One Group Two South Africa 4 3 1 0 0 6 +0.075 India 4 4 0 0 0 8 +1.280 West Indies 3 2 1 0 0 4 +1.223 Sri Lanka 3 2 1 0 0 4 +2.199 Pakistan 3 2 1 0 0 4 +0.893 New Zealand 3 2 1 0 0 4 +0.362 Australia 3 0 3 0 0 0 -1.549 Bangladesh 3 0 3 0 0 0 -2.315 England 3 1 2 0 0 2 -0.102 Note: Top two teams in each group qualify Netherlands 3 0 3 0 0 0 -2.176 for semi-finals. Small comfort in Australia’s T20 win over Bangladesh
DHAKA: Pre-tournament favourites Australia fin- “There are a few positives (from this tournament) ished their unimpressive World Twenty20 cam- but in a world tournament we need to do well as paign with a comfortable seven-wicket win over a team,” said Rahim. “Thanks to the crowd for Bangladesh in Dhaka yesterday. their support and hopefully we give back their Openers Aaron Finch scored a 45-ball 71 and faith soon.” Earlier Bangladesh, who batted after David Warner knocked a fiery 35-ball 48 to help winning the toss, were helped to 153-5 by Shakib Australia chase down a 154-run target in 17.3 Al Hasan’s 52-ball 66 for his fourth Twenty20 fifty- overs in the Super-10 Group Two match. the first from any Bangladeshi batsman in the Australia and hosts Bangladesh had lost their tournament. Shakib added 112 for the third wick- first three matches and were playing for pride in et with Rahim (47) in a much improved batting a match with no bearing on semi-final positions. display by the home team. The duo created a Finch and Warner put on a solid 98-run open- new Bangladesh record for the third wicket in all DHAKA: West Indies’ batsman Dwayne Bravo falls on the ground after he was hit by the ball during their ICC Twenty20 Cricket World ing wicket stand by the 12th over to quash any Twenty20 internationals, beating the 109-run Cup match against Pakistan. —AP hopes of a win for Bangladesh at a packed Sher- stand set by Aftab Ahmed and Mohammad e-Bangla stadium. Finch smashed four sixes and Ashraful against the West Indies at Johannesburg seven boundaries before he was bowled by in the 2007 World Twenty20. paceman Al-Amin Hossain who finished with 2- Bangladesh lost openers Anamul Haque Windies destroy Pakistan 30. Warner was also ruthless, hitting three sixes (nought) and Tamim Iqbal (five) in paceman and five boundaries before Hossain bowled him Nathan Coulter-Nile’s first two overs, leaving the with a beautiful delivery. Cameron White, who repair work to the two most senior players of the made 18 not out, hit a four and a six to seal the team. DHAKA: Defending champions West Indies The West Indies recovered from a top- The West Indies, who finished second behind unbeaten victory. Australian skipper George Bailey was sat- Coulter-Nile was the pick of the Australian charged into the World Twenty20 semi- order meltdown to post 166-6 after electing India in group two, will clash with group one champions Sri isfied with the result. “All the things we wanted to bowlers with 2-17. Shakib hit five boundaries and finals with a spectacular 84-run win over to take first strike, before three wickets each Lanka in the first semi-final in Dhaka tomorrow. do, we did today. Picked the balls, picked the three sixes before he fell to a brilliant catch by Pakistan in a key Super-10 match in Dhaka by spin twins Samuel Badree and Sunil India, who won all their four league matches, meet gaps and the bowling was good as well,” said Glenn Maxwell off Doug Bollinger. yesterday. Narine skittled Pakistan for 82 in 17.5 overs. South Africa at the same venue on Friday. The final will take Bailey. Rahim matched his illustrious partner as he place in Dhaka on Sunday. It was the first time Pakistan, “I think it’s still a game of basics, we just smashed five boundaries and a six off just 36 finalists in the inaugural World T20 in 2007 and champions haven’t done them well enough in crunch games balls, before he holed out off Shane Watson in in 2009, failed to reach the knock-out rounds in the five edi- and lost them. We had a side that was up for the the 17th over. India have already qualified for the tions of the tournament. The West Indies slumped to 81-5 challenge and I’d not want to take anything from semi-finals from this group. South Africa, who before skipper Darren Sammy and Dwayne Bravo led a dra- them.” meet India in the second semi-final on Friday, matic rescue act by adding 71 for the sixth wicket off just 32 Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim vowed and Sri Lanka have advanced to the last four from balls. to improve his team’s performance in future. Group One. —AFP Bravo smashed four sixes and two fours in a 26-ball 46, while Sammy remained unbeaten on 42 off 20 balls that contained five fours and two sixes. The West Indies plundered 71 runs in the last four overs, taking 21 runs in the 18th bowled by seamer Umar Gul and 24 in the 19th by off-spinner Saeed Ajmal. Bravo, who was named man of the match, said he would have preferred to share it with Sammy and Badree. “We have the bowling to defend any total, but I really did not expect the match to be so easy,” he said. “Pakistan did have our top order in some bother, but then our batting runs deep and we showed that today. “I think Sammy and Badree were equally deserving of the award. We have the momentum going into the semi- finals and I am confident we will do well there too.” SCOREBOARD Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez apologised for his team’s fans for not doing better in the key game. “I must DHAKA: Scoreboard of the World Twenty20 Super-10 group two match between Pakistan thank our fans for their support and apologise for letting and the West Indies played at Shere Bangla stadium yesterday. them down,” he said. “This was obviously not our best per- West Indies Pakistan formance, but we had the game in control at the start. “All credit to the West Indies for taking the game away D. Smith c Kamran b Tanvir 8 Ahmed Shehzad lbw b Santokie 0 Kamran Akmal c Bravo b Badree 0 from us. Those four final overs cost us dearly and then we C. Gayle st Kamran b Hafeez 5 panicked at the start of our chase. It became a very difficult Mohammad Hafeez c Gayle b Russell 19 L. Simmons run out 31 target to chase.” Umar Akmal st Ramdin b Badree 1 Pakistan never recovered after Ahmed Shehzad, who M. Samuels b Afridi 20 Shoaib Malik st Ramdin b Badree 2 scored a century in the previous match against Bangladesh, D. Bravo run out 46 Sohaib Maqsood st Ramdin b Narine 18 was leg-before to Krishmar Santokie off the first ball of the D. Ramdin c Umar b Babar 5 Shahid Afridi st Ramdin b Narine 18 innings. Sohail Tanvir c Sammy b Narine 14 Badree removed Kamran Akmal in the second over, DHAKA: Bangladesh’s bowler Taskin Ahmed bowls during their ICC D. Sammy not out 42 Umar Gul c Simmons b Santokie 4 Umar Akmal in the fourth and Shoaib Malik in the sixth to Twenty20 Cricket World Cup match against Australia. —AP A. Russell not out 0 Saeed Ajmal b Russell 1 leave Pakistan tottering at 13-4. Extras: (lb4, w5) 9 Zulfiqar Babar not out 3 Hafeez (19) and Sohaib Maqsood (18) fell in successive Extras: (w2) 2 overs to make it 42-6, before Narine removed Shahid Afridi SCOREBOARD Total: (for six wkts; 20 overs) 166 and Sohail Tanvir in four balls to hasten the end. Total: (all out; 17.5 overs) 82 Did not bat: S. Narine, S. Badree, K. Santokie. Earlier, the West Indies lost both openers by the fourth DHAKA: Scoreboard of the World Twenty20 Super-10 group two match between Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Shehzad), 2-1 (Kamran), over, with Chris Gayle stumped off Hafeez for five and Australia and Bangladesh in Dhaka yesterday: Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Gayle), 2-22 (Smith), 3- 3-9 (Umar), 4-13 (Malik), 5-37 (Hafeez), 6-42 Dwayne Smith caught behind off Tanvir for eight. Bangladesh: Australia: 61 (Simmons), 4-67 (Samuels), 5-81 (Maqsood), 7-74 (Tanvir), 8-75 (Afridi), 9-78 Lendl Simmons and Marlon Samuel add 39 for the third Tamim Iqbal c Bollinger b Coulter-Nile 5 A. Finch c Nasir b Al Amin 71 (Ajmal). wicket when both batsmen fell in the 11th over to reduce (Ramdin), 6-152 (Bravo). Anamul Haque c Watson b Coulter-Nile 0 D. Warner b Al Amin 48 Bowling: Santokie 2.5-0-9-2 (2w), Badree 4-0- the West Indies to 67 for four. Bowling: Hafeez 2-0-15-1, Tanvir 4-0-27-1 Shakib Al Hasan c Maxwell b Bollinger 66 C. White not out 18 10-3, Samuels 3-0-21-0, Russell 3-0-15-2, It soon became 81-5 as Denesh Ramdin holed out in the (1w), Babar 4-0-27-1 (2w), Afridi 4-0-23-1, Mushfiqur Rahim c Maxwell b Watson 47 G. Maxwell b Taskin 5 Narine 4-0-16-3, Smith 1-0-11-0 deep off left-arm spinner Zulfiqur Babar, but Sammy and Mohammad Mahmudullah not out 6 Bravo stepped in to play what turned out to be match-win- G. Bailey not out 11 Gul 2-0-29-0 (1w), Ajmal 4-0-41-0 (1w) Result: West Indies won by 84 runs. Nasir Hossain b Starc 14 ning knocks. —AFP Extras: (lb3, w2) 5 Extras: (b2, lb4, w7, nb2) 15 Total (for three wickets, 17.3 overs) 158 Total (for five wickets, 20 overs) 153 Fall of wickets: 1-98 (Warner), 2-135 (Finch), Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Anamul), 2-12 (Tamim), 3-124 (Rahim), 4-133 (Shakib), 5-153 (Nasir) 3-147 (Maxwell). Cook still unable to lift Bowling: Gazi 4-0-35-0, Al Amin 3.3-0-30-2 Bowling: Starc 4-0-25-1 (w2), Coulter-Nile 3- 0-17-2 (w2), Bollinger 4-0-31-1, Watson 4-0- (w1), Shakib 3-0-36-0, Taskin 4-0-24-1 (w1), 25-1 (w3, nb1), Maxwell 3-0-32-0 (nb1), Razzak 2-0-16-0, Mominul 1-0-14-0. the lid on Pietersen axe Christian 2-0-17-0. Australia won by seven wickets.
LONDON: England captain Alastair Cook said rebuilt and that to do that “we must invest in things went into the decision,” Cook said. “It yesterday he was “frustrated” at his inability to our captain Alastair Cook...with everyone was a tough decision. Andy Flower stood reveal the reasons behind Kevin Pietersen’s pulling in the same direction and able to trust down as England team director following the international exile, although he promised all each other”. Ashes thrashing and limited overs coach would become clear “soon”. Despite being The ECB added: “It is for those reasons that Ashley Giles remains the favourite to succeed England’s leading run scorer across all formats, we have decided to move on without Kevin him as head coach, although his prospects South Africa-born Pietersen was axed by the Pietersen.” But that statement still left unan- weren’t improved by the Dutch debacle. But England and Wales Cricket Board in February swered the question of what precisely having seen Giles guide England to the final of following the team’s 5-0 Ashes thrashing in Pietersen had done in Australia to deserve last year’s 50-over Champions Trophy final, Australia. But exactly why he was sent into such drastic treatment, with some in the Cook said it would be wrong to judge him on international exile, with seemingly no hope of England hierarchy saying confidentiality rea- the national side’s most recent results. return, remains a mystery and Cook was sons prevented them from speaking out more “Gilo has had a tough winter-we’ve all had a unable to shed any fresh light yesterday. fully. tough winter,” said Cook. “He’s a very, very “I can’t actually answer that question, total- good coach. He’s a fantastic coach and a very ly, at this precise moment in time which is ‘TOUGH DECISION’ good man as well.” Other reported candidates incredibly frustrating for me,” Cook told Sky England’s recent struggles, culminating for the post include former England coach Sports News at county side Essex’s media day. with the humiliation of Monday’s 45-run Peter Moores, now with Lancashire, “Everyone will say I’m sitting on the fence, defeat by minnows the Netherlands in the Nottinghamshire’s Mick Newell and Australian Zain announces first but there are a number of reasons which will World Twenty20 in Bangladesh, where a team Trevor Bayliss, who has coached Sri Lanka. become clearer soon. “You have to respect the without Pietersen and Cook, who does not “I think we are lucky that we can choose decision and the position I am in at this pre- play in T20 internationals, were dismissed for from a good number of candidates. Gilo will winner of WCup draw cise moment in time,” the left-handed opening just 88, have only led to fresh questions. certainly be in for that. I don’t make the deci- batsman added. Cook accepted the ‘Pietersen issue’ would sion,” Cook said. England face upcoming home KUWAIT: Zain, the leading telecommunica- part of Zain’s most recent promotional cam- tions company in Kuwait, announced Hind paign which targeted technology and smart- Initially the ECB would only cite the need not go away until England addressed it full on, series with Sri Lanka and India and Cook said Mohammed Al Melhem winner of two tick- phone savvy customers. The promotion for a new “team ethic and philosophy” as the but insisted he couldn’t do so at this moment they would mark the start of a gruelling bid to ets to attend the FIFA World Cup Final involved the purchase of any of Zain’s unique reason behind the axing of the 33-year-old in time. get back to the summit of world cricket. “It match in the company’s first weekly draw, device packages with a data bundle. Upon Pietersen, England’s leading run-scorer in the “Everyone is going to keep asking that took us three or four years to become the top- as part of its latest promotional draw for the purchase, customers will automatically Ashes. But, following fierce criticism from the question until we give the answers, but at the ranked Test side in the world under Flower and post-paid customers, giving them a chance be entitled to enter the draw for a chance to likes of Michael Vaughan, Pietersen’s first moment we just can’t,” said the 29-year-old. (then captain Andrew) Strauss after we were to attend the FIFA World Cup Final match in win two airline tickets to Rio de Janeiro, two England captain, over its inability to handle However, Cook added: “If anyone thinks the bowled out for 51 in Jamaica. “It is going to Rio de Janeiro when they purchase any FIFA World Cup finals match tickets, and two ‘maverick’ players, the board issued another decision was taken lightly and without a lot of take time. It’s going to take a lot of blood, device with a data bundle nights stay in Rio, along with free transporta- Today’s winner announcement comes as tion to and from the stadium. February statement saying the team had to be consideration and a lot of thought-a lot of sweat and tears to get there.” —AFP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 SPORTS Real path to ‘decima’ blocked by Dortmund
BARCELONA: As Real Madrid strug- gle to maintain their La Liga title bid, a greater emphasis has been placed on winning a 10th European crown and this week they face a Borussia Dortmund side who famously blocked their path last season. As each year passes, the desire for Real to claim a 10th European Cup, or ‘decima’, has become more of an obsession and president Florentino Perez has spent lavishly to try and make it a reality by bring- ing in top talent from around the FRANCE: Chelsea’s English defender John Terry (center) jokes with team- world. mate, Chelsea’s Spanish defender Cesar Azpilicueta (second left) prior to a They last won the Champions team training session on the eve of their UEFA Champions League first leg League back in 2002 and their quarter-final football match against PSG. —AFP hopes were raised once more last season when they reached the semi-finals only for underdogs PSG must go up to another Borussia Dortmund to conjure up a stunning upset. They face off again level against Chelsea — Blanc in their quarter-final first leg tie today with Real under pressure to PARIS: Paris St Germain must be ruthless secure a 1-0 win. The Ligue 1 leaders are enjoy some continental success in front of goal when they take on 2012 expected to be at full strength although after two defeats in three league winners Chelsea in a Champions League they have a slight doubt over Thiago Silva. games has derailed their domestic quarter-final first leg today, according to The Brazilian centre back is likely to have to campaign after a long unbeaten coach Laurent Blanc. play in a face mask after fracturing his run. The Ligue 1 champions-elect are on an cheekbone 11 days ago. Real may be facing a Dortmund SPAIN: Borussia Dortmund’s football players take part in a training session at the Santiago eight-game winning streak in all compe- Silva and full back Gregory van der Wiel, side which has been blighted by titions but the former France centre back who is recovering from a knee injury, were Bernabeu stadium on the eve of their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal first leg football injuries all season but coach Jurgen match against Real Madrid. —AFP knows Chelsea, under Jose Mourinho, rested against Nice. The last time Chelsea Klopp believes they can pull off a have the experience and defensive know- visited the Parc des Princes in the 2004-05 another surprise at the Bernabeu. DIFFICULT CAMPAIGN targets we set out at the start of are coming towards the end and how to strangle any opposition. group stages, for Mourinho’s first European “With our budget and list of Along with the players in the treat- the season. it could be better after two “We will have to be more efficient,” game as the London club’s manager, they injuries... we are the underdogs in ment room, they will also miss talis- “We will play like we always do. defeats but we are physically in said Blanc. “We will have fewer chances beat PSG 3-0. the tie,” he told Spanish newspaper manic striker Robert Lewandowski, We have to try and do our own good shape, mentally we reacted and those we create we will have to con- Mourinho will be desperate for a reaction Marca. “However, I always say that it who is suspended for the first leg. game in the Bernabeu. Madrid are well and we are optimistic,” vert. “We know we need to be at another from his players after they delivered an is not necessary to be the best team “It has been a very difficult favorites but we will try and get a coach Carlo Ancelotti told a level,” he added of the Parc des Princes abject show in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at in the world but to be capable of campaign from the start. We have result that will give us a chance in news conference. “Today, we will clash. Blanc’s expensively-assembled struggling Crystal Palace. Chelsea were slug- beating the best in the world in a faced extraordinary challenges the second leg.” have a good atmosphere (in the squad have no equals in the domestic gish in midfield and toothless in attack, one-off contest, and Borussia can and an injury crisis without prece- Real responded to the back- stadium). Everyone has a dream, league, leading second-placed Monaco prompting the Portuguese to say their beat the best. “That is the most dent,” Klopp added. to-back defeats, including the tenth, and everyone under- by 13 points with seven games left this Premier League title ambitions were now a important thing for me. Borussia “I have never seen anything against Barcelona, with a com- stands that we can win if we are season. thing of the past. have a chance and maybe we will similar but having said that, we prehensive 5-0 win at the week- all united and we can realise the PSG also sailed through to the knock- Gary Cahill, one of four defenders to catch them out.” are in a position to achieve all the end against Rayo Vallecano. “We dream.” —Reuters out stages of the Champions League escape Mourinho’s wrath on Saturday, said it from a group featuring Anderlecht, Porto was a painful experience for the squad. and Olympiakos Piraeus before dismiss- “It hurts losing any football match and it ing Bayer Leverkusen in the last 16. certainly hurt at the end of the game The key to both games against because we knew how vital three points Chelsea could be Blanc’s red-hot striker would be,” said Cahill. Zlatan Ibrahimovic. The Swedish interna- “It was massively disappointing, the feel- tional is the runaway leading scorer in ing at the end of the game was horrible, but Ligue 1 this term with 25 goals, 11 ahead all we can do is keep pushing ... we have to of team mate Edinson Cavani and bounce back.” Alexandre Lacazette of Olympique Lyon Midfielder Nemanja Matic and winger who share second place. Mohamed Salah are ineligible, after joining Ibrahimovic has also excelled in the Chelsea in the January transfer window. Champions League, bagging 10 goals in Brazilian playmaker Willian should be back this season’s competition. PSG, perhaps after being rested at Palace while Mourinho with one eye on the Chelsea game, pro- is hoping Samuel Eto’o can return up front duced a below-par performance at Nice after suffering a hamstring problem against on Friday and needed an own goal to Arsenal two weekends ago. —Reuters Chen ends Ulsan’s winning streak SINGAPORE: China’s Guizhou Renhe end- minute penalty by Zhang Xizhe to keep ed Korean Ulsan Hyundai’s 15-match their match against Beijing scoreless before unbeaten run in the AFC Champions Dutch defender Marcel Seip volleyed home League yesterday after coming from a goal Kim Seung-Yong’s cross four minutes later down in front of a home crowd. The to break the deadlock. Chinese FA Cup holders beat the 2012 AFC The win saw Central Coast move up champions 3-1 at the Guiyang Olympic to six points, one ahead of the other Centre Stadium. three teams with two rounds of games Ulsan took the lead in the 34th minute remaining. when Kim Min-Kyun’s accurate through ball Sanfrecce could have taken over top released Yoo Jun-Su, who outpaced the spot but they were denied victory in Seoul Guizhou defence before sliding the ball by a penalty deep into stoppage time. The between the legs of goalkeeper Zhang Lie Japanese champions twice took the lead at and into the net. the Seoul World Cup Stadium with substi- However, the Koreans’ lead lasted only tute Hwang Seok-Ho firing the visitors into five minutes as Chen Zijie equalised with the lead in the 71st minute after Gakuto his first goal of the night after he had beat- Notsuda’s opening goal had been can- en the offside trap. celled out by Yun Il-Lok. Guizhou then went in front six minutes They appeared to have secured the into the second half when Qu Bo slid in to points when Sanfrecce goalkeeper Takuto Zaltan Ibrahimovic turn home Rao Weihui’s dangerous low Hayashi stopped an 89th-minute penalty cross from the right. by Osmar Barba. Chen sealed victory with a fine finish But with the visitors reduced to 10 men Ibra rules out England move eight minutes from time as he rifled a low after defender Hiroki Mizumoto was sent off, shot from the edge of the box into the bot- the pressure finally told in the sixth minute tom corner of the Ulsan net to make it 3-1. of added time when Seoul were awarded a PARIS: Zlatan Ibrahimovic yesterday ruled out any 2012, added: “When I was at Milan I spoke to some insisted that PSG are a better side now than 12 months In addition to ending Ulsan’s long second penalty and Rafael Costa coolly dis- prospect of a move to the English Premier League as his English clubs, but I don’t think I’ll ever look back and say ago, when they were eliminated on away goals by unbeaten streak, the win also saw Guizhou patched the ball into the net. —AFP Paris Saint-Germain side prepared to face Chelsea in the I wish I had gone to England. “I respect the Premier Barcelona under Carlo Ancelotti. Champions League quarter-finals. League but I have no regrets about not playing there.” But under the Italian’s successor Laurent Blanc, PSG move up to four points, three behind Ulsan The French league leaders host the London side in are 13 points clear at the top of Ligue 1 and on course and two behind Western Sydney the first leg at the Parc des Princes on Wednesday with ‘SUPER FAVORITES’ to win the League Cup while also hoping to reach the Wanderers and Kawasaki Frontale. Ibrahimovic, who has scored a club record 40 goals in The meeting of PSG and Chelsea looks like the most last four in the Champions League for the first time in Kawasaki joined Western Sydney in sec- Matches on TV all competitions this season, their talisman. evenly balanced of all the quarter-final ties but, while 19 years. ond place after they also came from behind A winner of league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Ibrahimovic acknowledges that Paris represents his last Blanc has brought the best of his side with a 4-3-3 (Local Timings) to beat the Australian side 2-1 in Japan. Spain and France, the 32-year-old Swede has never chance to win the greatest prize in European football, formation and a possession-based game and he con- Labinot Haliti scored for the second game played in England and admits that he never will now he insists that JosÈ Mourinho’s side must be considered firmed that they will not change their way of playing in a row to give Western Sydney the lead in UEFA Champions League that things are going so well at a PSG side awash with the ‘super favourites’ to advance to the last four. just to counteract Chelsea’s counterattacking approach. the 24th minute but Kengo Nakamura Real Madrid v Borussia 21:45 cash since their takeover by Qatar Sports Investments in “I think that the biggest possibility to win it is with “We have analysed Chelsea and prepared this equalised in the 75th minute before Ryota 2011. Paris because this is my last contract in Europe,” he said match as we normally do. I suppose Chelsea will have beIN SPORTS 1 Oshima scored with two minutes remain- “I’m very happy here. The club is doing an amazing with a nod to a decade of disappointments at this level. prepared like us,” he said. ing to give Kawasaki the points. beIN SPORTS 3 job to become like other top clubs. I’ve seen big “This year we are in the quarter-finals against a fan- “We have contrasting styles. But which is the most There was also plenty of drama in Group beIN SPORTS 1 HD changes, developments on and off the field that I’ve tastic team. We have nothing to lose. I think we did a efficient? We will see over the two legs, but I think that F as Australia’s Central Coast Mariners, who beIN SPORTS 3 HD never seen elsewhere,” said Ibrahimovic, who has a con- fantastic season so far and every game we win from both teams will maintain their philosophy in both began the day in last place, moved a point tract to 2016 in Paris worth in the region of £15 million now on is a bonus for us. games. clear at the top after they beat Beijing PSG v Chelsea 21:45 ($25m, 18 million euros) per year. “It is a project (that has been) going on for two years “If we start to worry about Chelsea on the break and Guoan of China 1-0 in Gosford and the beIN SPORTS 2 “Either you aim low or medium, but these people, and we are beginners in everything we do. Chelsea has change our approach, our own game will become less match between FC Seoul of Korea and beIN SPORTS 4 they aim high! To come to England today is not a ques- a project going on for 10 years. They’ve already won natural and our collective performance will not be at Sanfrecce Hiroshima of Japan ended in a 2- beIN SPORTS 2 HD tion that is brought up. First of all I think it’s impossible the Champions League, the Europa League, they have a the level we want it to be. “We know how Chelsea like 2 draw. Central Coast were indebted to to take me to England. I don’t think the people behind great coach. to play and we know they will create chances on the goalkeeper Liam Reddy, who saved a 69th beIN SPORTS 4 HD this project will let me go.” “I think all of the teams in the last eight are strong break, so we will pay attention to that, but putting Ibrahimovic, who moved to Paris from AC Milan in but Chelsea are the super favorites.” The Swede also everyone behind the ball is not our style.” —AFP Guarin’s blunder costs Inter much-needed win ITALY: Inter Milan suffered another slip-up time before Paulinho pulled one back and the season, left them clinging to fifth place final kick of the first half, the Argentine’s poor finishing for his team’s troubles but it against lower-placed opponents after a late substitute Innocent Emeghara pounced on which would earn them a Europa League 14th league goal of the season, to put Inter was a defensive mistake which cost them blunder by midfielder Fredy Guarin allowed Guarin’s terrible back pass to equalise. place next season. seemingly in control. two points. lowly Livorno to snatch a 2-2 home draw in Inter badly needed a win after their previ- Hernanes put Inter ahead in the 37th Paulinho brought Livorno back into the Guarin underhit an awful back pass from Serie A on Monday. ous two games ended in a 2-1 defeat by minute when he fired home from inside the game when he scored following a well- the halfway line which was intercepted by Midfielder Hernanes, with his first goal Atalanta and goalless draw with Udinese, penalty area after team mate Mauro Icardi worked corner routine nine minutes after Emeghara and the Swiss calmly placed his since his January move from Lazio, and both at San Siro. missed his kick. the break. shot past Samir Handanovic with five min- Rodrigo Palacio put Inter 2-0 ahead at half- Monday’s point, their 13th league draw of Palacio then scored with a volley with the Inter coach Walter Mazzarri has blamed utes left. —Reuters Windies destroy Real path to Pakistan for ‘decima’ semis spot blocked by Dortmund
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 18 19
Karrie Webb is older, wiser and still winning Page 17
SPAIN: Barcelona’s Neymar celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during a first leg quarterfinal Champions League soccertch ma between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou stadium. — AP Neymar gives Barcelona hope
BARCELONA: Atletico Madrid have the upper hand head- after just five minutes as the ball fell to him inside the area later, though, as brilliant play from Messi fed Iniesta inside Barca laid seige to the Atletico goal in a bid to get back ing into the second leg of their Champions League quar- after an errant clearance from Jose Manuel Pinto, but the the area and his shot was blocked by Diego Godin. on level terms as Courtois turned Sergio Busquets’ well- ter-final against Barcelona after holding on for a 1-1 draw former Barca striker’s effort flew just past the post. It was the visitors who were then disrupted by injury to struck volley behind before Messi was unable to direct at the Camp Nou yesterday. Diego Ribas, who had come on A minute later Lionel Messi had his first opening as he a key player as Costa hobbled off with a pulled hamstring Dani Alves’ volleyed cross goalwards. Neymar did bring the as a first-half substitute for the injured Diego Costa, fired was upended by Gabi on the edge of the area, but the that will almost certainly also rule him out of the return leg hosts level on 71 minutes as his perfectly timed run was the visitors in front with a wonder strike from long range Argentine dumped the resulting free-kick into the wall. next week. matched by Iniesta’s through ball and the Brazilian slotted 11 minutes into the second half. Barca then suffered an injury blow as Gerard Pique was However, even without their top scorer, Atletico nearly the ball past Courtois first time. However, Barca responded like a side looking to make forced off after failing to recover from an awkward fall as went in ahead at the break as Villa this time found the tar- With the volume of the Camp Nou raised by the equalis- their seventh consecutive Champions League semi-final he challenged for an aerial ball with Costa. get with a low drive that was beaten away by Pinto low to er, Barca had all the momentum in the final stages and and were level when Neymar swept home Andres Iniesta’s Neymar had Barca’s first effort on goal on 24 minutes as his left. Courtois had to make a fine low save to his left to meet a pass 19 minutes from time. A fourth draw in as many Thibaut Courtois easily gathered the Brazilian’s weak head- The pace of the game rose at the beginning of the sec- curling effort from Iniesta and then turn a Messi free-kick games between the sides this season leaves the tie deli- ed effort. ond period and despite Barca’s early dominance of posses- behind. cately poised for the return at the Vicente Calderon next sion, it was Atletico who took the lead in spectacular fash- However, Barca couldn’t find a winner and will travel to Wednesday, April 9. DISRUPTED BY INJURY ion as Diego thundered a shot high into Pinto’s top left- Madrid needing to score at least once to reach the last four Atletico’s David Villa had the best chance of the first half The Atletico defence had to be at their best moments hand corner from fully 30 yards. once more.—AFP Champions Bayern held by resurgent Man United
MANCHESTER: Under-performing Manchester sent off in the dying stages to give United extra a night that stirred old passions at Old Trafford. United produced a vastly improved display to hope ahead of next week’s return leg in Munich. David Moyes’s side defended manfully and hold defending champions Bayern Munich to a 1- With Bayern having already successfully after Danny Welbeck had squandered a gilt- 1 draw in the home leg of their Champions defended their Bundesliga title and United floun- edged opportunity late in the first half, they League quarter-final yesterday. dering domestically, the English champions were took a 58th-minute lead through Inter Milan- Bayern midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger can- given little chance of success in the first leg, but bound captain Vidic. celled out Nemanja Vidic’s opener, but was then they turned in a laudably dogged performance on Schweinsteiger equalised nine minutes later, but United managed to preserve their unbeaten home record in this season’s competition, there- by breathing fresh life into a hitherto bleak campaign. Ten points below the Premier League’s top four, United probably need to win the Champions League to qualify for next season’s competition, OLD TRAFFORD: Manchester United’s Danny Welbeck (center) challenges for the ball but their courageous display suggested that that with Bayern’s Javier Martinez (right) and Jerome Boateng during the Champions may not be as fanciful a notion as previously League quarterfinal first leg soccer match. — AP thought. The draw also prevented Bayern from setting a one shot flying wide and the other drawing a the hosts went ahead. new Champions League record of eight succes- flying save from David de Gea. Rooney arced a corner towards the sive away wins, but Pep Guardiola’s side will The hosts spent most of the first half back post from the left flank and the nonetheless be the favourites to progress ahead watching Bayern string passes across the unmarked Vidic strained his neck to steer of the return game in Munich. United set out to face of their penalty area, but in the 40th the ball into the bottom-right corner with contain, with Michael Carrick, Marouane Fellaini minute they let a huge chance to take the the side of his head. and Ryan Giggs in central midfield, but they had lead go begging. Guardiola responded by introducing the ball in Bayern’s net in the third minute. Jerome Boateng’s inability to cut out a Mario Mandzukic for Thomas Mueller and Welbeck showed great skill to flick the ball through ball from Rooney left Welbeck one- the move paid swift dividends, with the over Javi Martinez and fire home, but because on-one with Neuer, but he elected for a Croatian heading down Rafinha’s cross for the Bayern defender lowered his head in the scooped finish that he miscued, allowing the Schweinsteiger to crash an equaliser into the challenge, the United forward was penalised for Germany number one to make a comfort- top-left corner. a high foot. able save. An injury to Alexander Buttner then Wayne Rooney gave United’s fans further Undaunted, United pressed on, with forced United into a defensive reshuffle, but encouragement when he forced Bayern goalkeep- Antonio Valencia seeing a shot deflected although Robben twice went close in the lat- er Manuel Neuer into a rushed clearance that over, and although Bayern enjoyed 78 per- ter stages, Moyes’s side held firm. went out for a throw, but bit by bit, the visitors cent of possession in the first half, the home Guardiola, meanwhile, must contend took control. side were holding their own. without the influential Schweinsteiger in OLD TRAFFORD: Manchester United’s Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini (left) and Bayern Franck Ribery put a cross marginally too far United introduced Shinji Kagawa for Munich next week, after he was shown a sec- Munich’s French midfielder Franck Ribery (right) compete for the ball during the UEFA behind Thomas Mueller, while Arjen Robben twice Giggs at half-time and after Schweinsteiger ond yellow card for sliding in on Rooney in Champions League quarter-final first leg football match. — AFP threatened after cutting onto his left foot, with had put a warning shot over De Gea’s bar, the last minute. — AFP Concerns over Dubai property sector ‘buildup’ Page 22
US manufacturing sector Business accelerates in March Page 23 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 2014 Cadillac ATS Japan shoppers see first sales tax rise in 17 years challenges world’s best compact luxury cars Page 25 Page 26
ATHENS: Meeting of Ministers for Economic and Financial Affairs at the Zappeion Hall in Athens yesterday. — AFP EU asks France, Greece to stick to reforms Athens closes one more difficult chapter in slow recovery
ATHENS: Euro-zone officials urged France’s announced a change of government. interest of Europe to have a strong France. (But) Greek progress on pledged reforms. Greece’s sions, Greece was “fully financed” for the next incoming government yesterday to stick to “It is essential that France act decisively, France has to deliver on its commitments under parliament on Sunday narrowly passed one 12 months. reform pledges, and Greece to capitalize on its both to ensure the sustainability of its public the growth and stability pact.” The French pub- more omnibus law of reforms to make the dis- This is a requirement set by the IMF, which austerity sacrifices in return for a long-delayed finances, and to address well known bottle- lic deficit, or gap between spending and rev- bursement possible. This leaves 1.8 billion euros makes its own loan payments conditional on 6.3-billion-euro slice of bailout cash. The loan necks to competitiveness and growth,” reacted enues, amounted to 4.3 percent of national out- remaining in Greece’s bailout program as far as Greece’s one-year funding viability. The global disbursal announced at a two-day meeting of EU Economic Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn. put last year, official data showed on Monday. the euro-zone is concerned, said Klaus Regling, lender will meet later this month to determine European finance ministers, after seven months “For the sake of refreshing our memories, the This is above the target of 4.1 percent agreed managing director of the European Stability how much of its own pending payments-about of tough talks between Greece and its EU-IMF existing deadline on France’s deficit has already with the EU, and raises the stakes as Hollande Mechanism. “The most important thing is to 3.6 billion euros-to release to Greece. Athens creditors, will enable Athens to repay maturing been extended twice,” Rehn said. oversees the composition of a new government now implement all the structural reforms that has so far received a combined 240-billion euro debt in May. Hollande wants EU authorities to take after a local election debacle on Sunday. have been agreed,” said European Central Bank bailout. Dijsselbloem refused to comment on As Greece closed one more difficult chapter account of structural reforms in the making in President Mario Draghi. “The thing to do is to whether Greece, which intends to start borrow- in its slow recovery, France seemed headed for France when analyzing the deficit. But Funding for Greece not unravel the fiscal adjustment, the progress ing on markets again later this year, might yet a fiscal discipline dispute with the EU. There Eurogroup chief Jeroen Dijsselbloem said yes- Athens will receive 6.3 billion euros ($8.7 bil- that has been achieved with so much pain and need another loan. were long faces as French President Francois terday: “I think France is well aware of its com- lion) from its pending EU bailout fund at the effort,” he said. “Let’s concentrate on the program that still Hollande said implicitly that Paris would seek mitments. It’s been given two years and there is end of April, Dijsselbloem said. Two more slices runs to the end of the year,” he said. Greek leniency from the EU Commission for over- obviously work to be done.” He said: “I will fully of 1.0 billion euros apiece will be disbursed in Nod to IMF unions have called for street protests in the shooting its public deficit target, as he agree with the president of France, it is in the June and July, but all the releases are tied to Dijsselbloem said that following these deci- capital in the evening against austerity. — AFP Egypt covers all dollar UAE, Qatar markets backlogs for investors gain; Kuwait drops CAIRO: Egypt’s Central Bank said yesterday it had covered the entire backlog of dollars owed to foreign investors seeking to repatriate funds from the country but did not say how much money was involved. Years of political turmoil, opaque MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS bureaucracy and continued dollar shortages have unnerved DUBAI: Financial and property stocks lift- lackluster performance compared with foreign investors in Egypt, though authorities say they are working hard to improve the business climate. ed bourses in the United Arab Emirates other regional markets masks a divergence In a push to restore confidence in the economy, authori- and Qatar yesterday, while Egypt rebound- between small- and large-caps stocks. ties opened a repatriation scheme in March 2013 guarantee- ed after three days of heavy profit-taking. “The bulk of the money now is no ing foreign investors in Egyptian stock and government bond Qatar’s benchmark rose 1.8 percent to longer focusing on the smaller companies,” markets access to dollars despite the severe shortages of the 11,849 points, extending a rally that begun said Fouad Darwish, head of brokerage at US currency. “The Central Bank of Egypt announces the cover- this week after the government adopted a Global Investment House. The large-cap age of the remaining foreign investors’ backlogs today after record $60 billion budget for the 2014/15 Kuwait 15 index, tracked since May 2012, previously covering 50 percent of these backlogs on March fiscal year. rose 2.2 percent to a new historical high of 13,” the central bank said in a statement. On March 13, the The index, now at a four-week high, 1,200 points yesterday, taking this year’s bank had said it would cover the remaining 50 percent in the faces resistance at 11,900 points, the gains to 12 percent. Small-cap stocks are near future. The bank said the backlogs had accumulated February peak. Qatar National Bank and retreating after “some huge gains that because foreign investors had refrained from using the cen- Islamic lender Masraf Al-Rayan were were made last year,” said Fouad Alhadlaq, tral bank’s repatriation mechanism. Egypt’s foreign reserves HONG KONG: People shop for fresh fruit in a street market in Hong Kong yesterday. The among the top gainers, rising 2.9 and 3.2 acting general manager at Al-Dar Asset fell to a critical low of $13.5 billion last year, down from $36 Asian Development Bank said yesterday growth in developing Asia will edge higher billion before the uprising that toppled autocrat Hosni percent respectively. Shares in Gulf Management in Kuwait. Mubarak in 2011. —Reuters over the next two years, but faces being constrained by China’s campaign to cool its International Services jumped 9.9 percent “The large-caps seem to be closing the economy. — AFP after the firm said it had bought a 30 per- gap.” Kuwait Projects Co, the Gulf state’s cent stake in Gulf Drilling International largest listed investment company, added from Japan Drilling Co, giving it full control 7.3 percent after saying it would start the of the firm. Dubai’s index rose 1.6 percent. process for an initial public offering (IPO) Russia tightens squeeze on Shares in Emaar Properties broke through of its pay-television unit OSN within the psychologically important level of 10 weeks. Another arm of Kuwait Projects Co, dirhams to end 1.5 percent higher at 10.10 Burgan Bank, rose 3.6 percent after Ukraine with gas price rise dirhams. Lender Emirates NBD added 2.7 announcing plans to raise more capital percent after conglomerate Dubai World, this year to comply with the Basel III bank- to which it has major exposure, said it was ing industry regulations. MOSCOW: Russian natural gas producer Gazprom “The December discount for gas cannot be applied resumption of such disputes. But the IMF has agreed a able to make upcoming debt repayments announced a more than 40 percent increase in the price anymore,” Miller said, adding that the transportation tar- $14-18 billion standby credit for Ukraine, in exchange on time and even ahead of schedule. Egypt of gas for Ukraine yesterday, stepping up economic iff for Gazprom’s gas to Europe via Ukraine was increas- for painful economic reforms, as part of a $27 billion Dubai Financial Market, which said on Egypt’s index, which had lost 8 percent pressure on Kiev in its crisis in relations with Moscow. ing by 10 percent, in line with earlier agreements. The international package aimed at getting the country’s Monday its daily trading volume has risen of its value in the previous three sessions, Price rows have in the past led to cuts in Russian gas new head of Ukraine’s state energy company Naftogaz, economy on its feet. 424 percent this year, was up 2.1 percent. rebounded yesterday to close 1.5 percent supplies to Ukraine and decreases in onward deliveries Andrei Kobolev, is expected to visit Moscow this week The IMF should be ready to hand over the first $3 bil- “What the market is turning its atten- higher. The dip was a result of profit-taking to Europe, but this time the financial blow to Kiev is set for talks on Russian gas supplies. Ukraine has been lion of the new aid package this month, its top tion to is first quarter numbers, which will by investors who had built up positions in to be cushioned by a new International Monetary Fund working on reducing its dependence on gas from European official has said. Even so, Prime Minister be out in about three weeks,” said Sanyalak anticipation of former army chief Abdel loan package. Russia, which meets a half of its gas consumption. Arseny Yatseniuk has said Ukraine will need energy from Manibhandu, manager of research at Fattah Al-Sisi’s run for president. Ukraine will now have to pay $385.5 per 1,000 cubic Before the December discount, Ukraine paid a price of the EU to protect it from the repercussions of its stand- NBAD Securities. Abu Dhabi’s index rose Sisi, who investors hope will stabilize metres of gas in the second quarter, an increase from around $400, which Kiev said was unaffordable for its off with Moscow, on which it depends for over half its oil 1.2 percent to 4,954 points, approaching the economy and carry out much-needed the $268.5 agreed in December and higher than the fragile economy. “The $385.5 price is absolutely expect- and gas. Tension between Moscow and Kiev rose when reforms, officially made the move last average price for clients in the European Union but ed and clearly in accordance with the contract. The Russian forces took control of Crimea last month and the February peak of 5,005 points, also around the level Kiev had expected. The decision, which (December) discount is not continued,” Kobolev told a the Black Sea peninsula voted on union with Russia in a largely on the back of banking and proper- week, prompting market players to book had been clearly flagged by President Vladimir Putin, news conference in Kiev. referendum which the United Nations General ty stocks. profits. ended a discount that had been agreed in December, Assembly declared invalid. Russia formally annexed Egypt’s central bank helped the market before the crisis over the ouster of Ukraine’s Moscow- Ukraine looks to EU Crimea on March 21. Gazprom has already approached Focus on large caps bounce back, saying yesterday it had cov- backed president and Russia’s annexation of Crimea. Gazprom has suggested a new conflict over gas pay- local authorities with a proposal to over Crimea’s oil and In Kuwait, the main stock index slipped ered the entire backlog of dollars owed to Gazprom’s Chief Executive Officer, Alexei Miller, said an ments and supplies - like disputes in 2006 and 2009 that gas sector, including energy company 0.2 percent to 7,558 points, leaving it near- foreign investors seeking to repatriate increase was justified because Ukraine’s debt for unpaid halted supplies to Ukraine and onward to Europe - Chernomorneftegaz, which hopes to double its gas out- ly flat year-to-date. But traders say Kuwait’s funds from the country. — Reuters gas bills now stood at $1.7 billion. could break out, though it has said it has no interest in a put next year to 3 billion cubic metres. —Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 BUSINESS Concerns over boom in Dubai property sector NBK ECONOMIC REPORT KUWAIT: Economic data and press reports ment conglomerate, is planning to launch the UAE remains fairly tepid, at 7 percent at have raised concerns over the potential projects worth up to AED 3.5 billion this the end of 2013. The systemic effect to the build-up of another unsustainable boom in year: it will be launching phase 3 of its banking sector of fluctuations in property Dubai’s residential property market. While Green Community project which will prices should be less damaging than dur- the boom likely has further to run, rising accommodate almost 250 units, 200 or ing the previous boom-bust cycle. housing supply should help to take some of more of those will be villas. It will also be Even so, there are other reasons to miti- the heat out of the market this year. Given re-launching its Mirdiff Hills mixed-use gate or avoid excessive property price Dubai’s recent economic history, the development project, which is valued at volatility. Given the sector’s prominent role authorities will remain keen to guard AED 3 billion and is expected to include in Dubai’s development, property market against further sustained rapid price 680 apartments. volatility can spur economic instability and increases. They will likely enforce various However, despite a potential modera- mal-investment. Moreover, with housing macro prudential tools. A sudden accelera- tion in price pressures this year, the local rents making up 39 percent of the CPI bas- tion in sales in Q4 2013 was largely attrib- authorities are understandably keen to ket, the property market can also have a uted to an abrupt jump in investor senti- prevent a repeat of the instability that significant bearing on inflation - and ulti- ment; following Dubai’s that quarter to host beset Dubai’s economy just a few years mately Dubai’s international competitive- the Expo 2020 event. Yet investor sentiment back. The UAE authorities have proposed a ness. Finally, against a backdrop of exuber- was strong for most of 2013, thanks to number of regulations to help mitigate ant property price increases, policymakers Dubai’s solid ongoing economic recovery. risks to banks’ balance sheets, limit the lev- must allocate time and effort towards con- The emirate’s Expo win gave investor senti- el of speculation and prevent price rises trolling them, often at the expense of ment a further boost, prompting more buy- from spiraling out of control. The regula- addressing other issues. For these reasons, ers to enter the real estate market in antici- tions include new maximum loan-to-value the authorities are likely to maintain a vigi- pation of higher returns. ratios for mortgage lending, which have lant watch over the property market - Price pressures appear to be greatest in and covers a broad spectrum of the proper- chance that the previous peak will be been devised to help limit banks’ exposure although this is no guarantee that they will the apartment sector. Apartment sales ty market - both the high-end housing mar- reached over the next year. to the real estate sector and keep specula- be able to rein in speculative activity com- prices grew on average by a staggering 60 ket and the mid-price market. According to Average sales prices are set to continue tion in check. The Dubai Land Department pletely. percent y/y and a whopping 23 percent q/q the data, mid-price range developments to rise this year, but at a slower pace, mainly is also planning to introduce new rules this Whilst the steep rise in sales prices is in Q4 2013, according to Asteco, a real have been catching up for the most part of due to a strong rise in new housing supply. year to control speculation on property causing concerns over a repeat of another estate services company. 2013, which is indicative of a spreading Jones Lang LaSalle, a property consultant, that is sold before completion (ie ‘off-plan’). property bubble, some companies, of Villa sales prices grew by a relatively recovery in the property sector. predicts that the supply of new residential Meanwhile, the doubling in the land trans- course, stand to benefit from higher prop- modest 35 percent y/y and 17 percent q/q, These types of price rises are almost units will grow by 8 percent y/y this year, as action fee from 2 to 4 percent back in erty prices. The rise in asset prices has giv- in the final quarter of last year. For 2013 as a comparable to the increases seen in the new projects continue to be launched and October 2013 had an almost immediate en some heavily indebted Dubai govern- whole, the rise in apartment sales prices previous boom. Of course, part of this previously mothballed projects are gradu- effect on sales transactions. ment-related entities the opportunity to outpaced that for villas for the first year involves a rebalancing, or recovering, after ally revived. This rate would be the highest Both current data and anecdotal evi- repay their debts early, for example. It has since the financial crisis. the steep price falls of 2009-2011; Asteco growth rate in four years. Major property dence suggest that - unlike in the previous also boosted confidence and re-asserted This is of course not the only measure of estimates that the average price of a resi- developer Emaar has launched five new boom - the role of the banking sector in Dubai’s status as the most dynamic busi- property prices in Dubai, but other data dential unit remains about 21 percent projects, and Nakheel has announced sales the latest run up in prices has been reason- ness hub in the region. Nevertheless, a sources provide a similarly robust message. below its 2008 peak. But at the current rate for land plots in its master developments. ably limited; cash buying has been more return to more measured rises in property Asteco tracks eight major areas in Dubai of increase, there seems a reasonable Dubai Investments, a diversified invest- common. Indeed, bank lending overall in prices will be desirable before long. News in brief UAE’s RAK Ceramics to raise
DAMAC sets price for capacity in India, Bangladesh 5-year dollar sukuk DUBAI: Dubai’s DAMAC Real Estate set price thoughts for its five-year, benchmark-sized US dollar sukuk issue, in RAS AL KHAIMAH: UAE-based Ras Al-Khaimah Ceramics, ness, tiles and sanitary ware. It might be in Ras Al- was exploring a sale of its shares in RAK Ceramics; the basis points, at midswaps plus the mid-300s, a document one of the world’s biggest makers of floor tiles, plans to Khaimah or outside,” he said. family wanted to sell a minimum of 25 percent of the from arrangers showed yesterday. The issue is expected invest $80 million this year on plant expansions in India RAK Ceramics saw its consolidated net profit jump 22 company and conceivably all of its stake, the source said. to be arranged this week. The proceeds will be used for and Bangladesh as well as technology upgrades at other percent to 272 million dirhams in 2013 while revenue Massaad said he could not comment on the issue as DAMAC’s general corporate purposes; benchmark-sized is plants, its chief executive told Reuters. rose 11 percent. In March, a source familiar with the mat- the company had not been briefed about its major share- generally taken to mean at least $500 million. Joint lead “This year we have an expansion coming,” Abdallah ter told Reuters that the ruling family of Ras Al-Khaimah holder’s intentions.—Reuters managers are Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Barclays, Citigroup, Massaad said, adding that new Indian production would Deutsche Bank, Dubai Islamic Bank, Emirates NBD and start coming onstream in June. The company, which National Bank of Abu Dhabi. DAMAC is the first Dubai makes ceramic wall tiles and sanitary ware as well as floor property developer to list equity in London. Its sukuk will tiles and is part owned by the ruling family of the emirate Algosaibi estimates assets at a be listed on the Irish Stock Exchange and NASDAQ Dubai. of Ras Al Khaimah, posted revenues of 3.5 billion dirhams ($953 million) last year. “This year we have spending on fraction of claims against it HSBC Bank Oman CAPEX of $80 million.” It is boosting annual production in India to almost 800,000 pieces of sanitary ware from appoints Long as chief DUBAI: Saudi Arabian conglomerate Ahmad Hamad funds that it says could be recovered in future from DUBAI: HSBC Bank Oman, Oman’s fourth-largest lender 300,000 to meet rising demand. Algosaibi & Brothers (AHAB) estimates its assets are Al-Sanea. There may be a substantial gap between by assets, said yesterday it had appointed Andrew Long Besides India, it runs plants in the United Arab as chief executive, replacing Ewan Stirling. Long joins Emirates, which accounts for around 70 percent of its worth less than a quarter of about $5.9 billion in claims and money available to meet them, however. from HSBC Bank Egypt, where he was deputy chairman overall production capacity, Bangladesh, China, Iran and claims made against it, a spokesman said as the The spokesman said the $5.9 billion figure was “an and chief executive, a statement to the Muscat Stock Sudan. Its capital expenditure totalled $60 million in group prepares a proposal to end one of the Middle estimate by AHAB of the value of claims made by var- Exchange said. The lender, created in June 2012 by the 2013. In Bangladesh, RAK Ceramics plans to increase East’s biggest corporate debt disputes. AHAB this ious institutions asserting claims against AHAB in merger of HSBC’s Omani assets and Oman International annual capacity by 3.5 million square metres of tiles from week invited more than 70 financial institutions, Saudi Arabia”. Bank, made a 2013 net profit of 10.9 million rials ($28.3 the current 7 million, and by 350,000 pieces of sanitary including Saudi, regional and international banks, to Meanwhile, AHAB estimates its assets, including million), compared to 5.8 million rials in 2012. ware from 1 million, Massaad said. The company is also a meeting in Dubai on May 7 to propose “a compre- its share portfolio and land in Saudi Arabia, at upgrading technology at factories in the UAE and else- hensive settlement” with creditors. between 4.2 billion and 5.2 billion riyals ($1.1-1.4 bil- Saudi’s NCB plans capital where. “Within the next two months, we will have tech- Banks will be asked to form a working group to lion), the spokesman said. “AHAB is prepared to con- hike before IPO nologies to produce the largest slabs available world- discuss the offer. If successful, it could end years of tribute significant assets to a settlement pool and, in DUBAI: National Commercial Bank, Saudi Arabia’s biggest wide,” he said. wrangling since the 2009 collapse of AHAB’s Bahrain addition, continue to fund the pursuit of recoveries bank by assets, plans to boost its capital by 5 billion riyals RAK Ceramics, in which Ras Al-Khaimah’s ruler Sheikh unit, The International Banking Corporation, and from Al-Sanea and his companies so that those ($1.3 billion) through conversion of its retained earnings Saud bin Saqr Al-Qassimi owns nearly 48 percent of the Awal Bank left more than 100 banks owed an amount recoveries can be used to significantly increase the into capital, it said in an emailed statement yesterday. The shares and the emirate’s government holds a further 5 that has been estimated at as much as $22 billion. size of the settlement pool,” he said without elaborat- announcement comes one month after the Saudi govern- percent, will finance its expansion through bank loans. Awal Bank is owned by Maan Al-Sanea, the Saudi ing. ment said it planned to float 15 percent of the state- Bond issues have not been considered, Massaad said. billionaire head of the Saad Group, who married into AHAB has interests ranging from real estate to owned bank on the stock exchange later this year in an Overall, the group has an annual capacity of 117 million the Algosaibi family 30 years ago and has been manufacturing. In January, a 60-year-old agreement initial public offer, the kingdom’s first bank IPO since 2008. square metres of tiles and 4.5 million pieces of sanitary accused by the family of defrauding it of billions of for AHAB to bottle PepsiCo drinks was terminated ware, its core businesses. It can also produce 24 million Mansour Al-Maiman, secretary-general of Saudi Arabia’s dollars after he was put in charge of its financial busi- after the Saudi company found it hard to invest in the Public Investment Fund and chairman of NCB’s board, pieces of tableware annually. The company’s Abu Dhabi- nesses. Al-Sanea and the Saad Group have denied operation. “AHAB has been under an asset freeze for said in yesterday’s statement that shareholders had listed shares are up 24 percent so far this year, outper- approved the plan to increase the bank’s capital to 20 bil- forming a 15 percent rise in the stock market index. the allegations, which have triggered a series of court nearly five years with no access to credit, which has lion riyals through the issuance of 500 million new shares. Massaad said a decision was likely to be made this year battles in New York, London and elsewhere. made it difficult to invest in any of its companies. This In addition, one new bonus share will be issued for every on possible further expansion plans, given a strong out- In an emailed statement to Reuters on Tuesday, an bottling operation had been one of the more signifi- three existing NCB shares. Shareholders also approved a look for the construction industry as the UAE and other AHAB spokesman said the settlement proposal cant operating businesses of AHAB,” the spokesman dividend distribution of 1.90 riyals per share for 2013. markets emerged from the global financial crisis. “We are would be based on the group’s existing assets plus said. — Reuters studying opportunities for expansions ... in our core busi- EXCHANGE RATES
Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. UAE Exchange Centre WLL Syrian Pound 2.950 Sierra Leone 0.000062 0.000068 Nepalese Rupees 3.895 Singapore Dollar 0.220900 0.226900 South African Rand 0.020714 0.029214 ASIAN COUNTRIES Malaysian Ringgit 87.425 COUNTRY SELL DRAFT SELL CASH Chinese Yuan Renminbi 45.925 Sri Lankan Rupee 0.001868 0.002448 Japanese Yen 2.736 Australian Dollar 265.93 262.93 Thai Bhat 9.705 Taiwan 0.009165 0.009345 Indian Rupees 4.717 Canadian Dollar 259.53 260.53 Turkish Lira 132.065 Thai Baht 0.008364 0.008914 Pakistani Rupees 2.878 Swiss Franc 324.08 322.08 Arab Srilankan Rupees 2.158 Euro 392.40 393.40 Bahraini Dinar 0.742881 0.750881 Nepali Rupees 2.953 US Dollar 281.90 284.90 Egyptian Pound 0.036820 0.039920 Singapore Dollar 225.100 Sterling Pound 473.83 476.83 Bahrain Exchange Company Iranian Riyal 0.000078 0.000079 Hongkong Dollar 36.421 Japanese Yen 2.79 2.81 Iraqi Dinar 0.000181 0.000241 Bangladesh Taka 3.633 Bangladesh Taka 3.631 3.901 CURRENCY BUY SELL Jordanian Dinar 0.394226 0.401726 Philippine Peso 6.317 Indian Rupee 4.724 5.024 Europe Kuwaiti Dinar 1.0000000 1.0000000 Thai Baht 8.740 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.158 2.593 Belgian Franc 0.007342 0.008342 Lebanese Pound 0.000137 0.000237 Irani Riyal transfer 0.271 Nepali Rupee 2.954 3.489 British Pound 0.463620 0.472620 Moroccan Dirhams 0.023439 0.047439 Irani Riyal cash 0.273 Pakistani Rupee 2.886 2.790 Czech Korune 0.006145 0.018145 Nigerian Naira 0.001194 0.001829 GCC COUNTRIES UAE Dirhams 76.82 77.28 Danish Krone 0.048007 0.053007 Omani Riyal 0.727733 0.733413 Saudi Riyal 75.363 Bahraini Dinar 750.30 752.37 Euro 0.383292 0.391292 Qatar Riyal 0.076886 0.078099 Qatari Riyal 77.653 Egyptian Pound 39.92 40.52 Norwegian Krone 0.043104 0.048304 Jordanian Dinar 401.21 406.86 Saudi Riyal 0.074697 0.075397 Omani Riyal 734.150 Romanian Leu 0.086978 0.86978 Omani Riyal 733.12 740.42 Syrian Pound 0.001752 0.001972 Bahraini Dinar 750.630 Slovakia 0.008083 0.018083 Qatari Riyal 77.85 78.40 Tunisian Dinar 0.174490 0.182490 UAE Dirham 76.965 Saudi Riyal 75.30 75.70 Swedish Krona 0.039589 0.044589 Turkish Lira 0.130426 0.137425 ARAB COUNTRIES Swiss Franc 0.312526 0.322726 UAE Dirhams 0.075932 0.077081 Egyptian Pound - Cash 39.700 Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Turkish Lira 0.130425 0.137425 Yemeni Riyal 0.001283 0.001383 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 39.922 Australasia Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.319 Australian Dollar 0.263060 0.264560 Tunisian Dinar 179.370 Rate for Transfer Selling Rate New Zealand Dollar 0.238405 0.247905 Jordanian Dinar 399.100 Al Mulla Exchange US Dollar 282.250 America Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.896 Canadian Dollar 258.310 Canadian Dollar 0.249953 0.258453 Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) Syrian Lira 2.014 Sterling Pound 471.100 US Dollars 0.278400 0.282750 Euro 389.895 US Dollar 281.950 Morocco Dirham 35.535 US Dollars Mint 0.278900 0.282750 Swiss Frank 319.545 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES Asia Euro 391.000 US Dollar Transfer 282.500 Bahrain Dinar 751.235 Pound Sterling 471.000 UAE Dirhams 76.825 Bangladesh Taka 0.003248 0.003848 Euro 390.560 Chinese Yuan 0.044321 0.047821 Canadian Dollar 256.600 Sterling Pound 472.060 Qatari Riyals 78.405 Indian Rupee 4.710 Saudi Riyals 75.540 Hong Kong Dollar 0.034327 0.037077 Canadian dollar 256.580 Egyptian Pound 39.920 Jordanian Dinar 397.775 Indian Rupee 0.004392 0.004793 Turkish lira 132.320 Egyptian Pound 40.452 Indonesian Rupiah 0.000020 0.000026 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.156 Swiss Franc 320.660 Sri Lankan Rupees 2.157 Japanese Yen 0.002649 0.002829 Bangladesh Taka 3.628 Australian Dollar 262.580 Indian Rupees 4.720 Kenyan Shilling 0.003263 0.003263 Philippines Peso 6.300 US Dollar Buying 281.300 Pakistani Rupees 2.873 Korean Won 0.000256 0.000271 Pakistan Rupee 2.873 GOLD Bangladesh Taka 3.628 Malaysian Ringgit 0.082841 0.088841 Bahraini Dinar 750.650 20 Gram 240.000 Philippines Pesso 6.297 Nepalese Rupee 0.002941 0.003111 UAE Dirham 76.750 10 Gram 121.000 Cyprus pound 693.260 Pakistan Rupee 0.002630 0.002910 Saudi Riyal 75.300 5 Gram 62.500 Japanese Yen 3.730 Philippine Peso 0.006394 0.006674 *Rates are subject to change WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 BUSINESS US manufacturing sector accelerates in March Construction spending remains lackluster Weak UK productivity ticks up at end of 2013 LONDON: Britain’s productivity economies has been a big question “Stronger overall productivity returned to modest growth towards mark hanging over the economic growth will require renewed invest- the end of last year, raising hopes recovery, especially for Bank of ment in the skills of the British work- that 2014 will bring an end to years England officials trying to set mone- force, making up ground lost during of bafflingly low levels of output tary policy. the years since recession,” he said. that have hindered the economic Analysts said yesterday’s data The ONS said output per hour in recovery. Productivity on an output- provided some tentative signs that 2013 was more than 3 percentage per-hour basis was up 0.3 percent productivity may be about to rise points lower than in 2008, before from October through December, more quickly. “Our view is that there Britain’s worst post-war recession. reversing a 0.2 percent drop in the is a substantial cyclical element in The BoE is concerned that low pro- third quarter, and rose 0.7 percent the weakness of productivity and it ductivity may limit Britain’s ability to on the year-ago period, the Office is likely to improve markedly as the make up for lost output without for National Statistics (ONS) said economy picks up,” Howard Archer, generating higher inflation in the yesterday. chief economist at IHS Global medium term. Output per hour in Britain was 21 Insight, said. But its governor Mark Carney percentage points below the aver- “We suspect that there is appre- said last month productivity may be age for the rest of the Group of ciable scope for many companies to moving towards its long-term trend. Seven industrialized economies in ultimately make more use of their “The most recent figures on produc- 2012, the widest productivity gap existing workforce,” he said. Geraint tivity suggest around a 2 percent BALTIMORE: Rows of the Caterpillar 2009 Challenger MT765C farm tractors sit on the docks of the Port of since 1992, the ONS said in Johnes, Work Foundation think-tank annualized growth rate, which is Baltimore’s Dundalk Terminal in this August 27, 2009 file photo.—AP February. Figuring out why Britain’s director, said the productivity rate coming for the first time in a very workers have produced much less remains below half its long-term long time towards trend,” he told WASHINGTON: US factory activity which accounts for about 12 percent percent in January. per hour than those in other major trend. parliament. — Reuters accelerated for a second straight of the economy. An unusually cold and snowy win- month in March as production Activity was buoyed by a rebound ter disrupted economic activity early rebounded, in the latest sign that win- in production, which ended a three- in the year. Activity, however, is show- ter’s icy grip on the economy was month string of slow growth. The for- ing signs of accelerating as tempera- loosening. But severe weather contin- ward-looking new orders index rose tures warm up, with employment China house price ued to hold back economic activity in to 55.1 from 54.5 in February. Even as growth, industrial production and the first quarter. Construction spend- the sector continues to break out of retail sales gaining momentum in ing barely rose in February, with pri- the cold spell, factory activity remains February. Construction spending in vate residential construction outlays slower than during the second half of February was curbed by a 0.8 percent rises slow in March recording their biggest decline in sev- last year. Warehouses are bulging with drop in private residential construc- en months, other data showed yester- massive stocks of unsold goods accu- tion projects, which was the largest day. “This is a bounce back from the mulated in the second half of 2013, fall since last July. However, a 1.2 per- BEIJING: Price rises for new homes in China slowed in same time local authorities in China make much of weather effect from what we were leaving businesses with little incentive cent surge in spending on nonresi- March for the third straight month, an independent their income from land sales to developers. Market seeing. We should see growth in man- to place large orders with manufactur- dential construction projects, which survey showed, as authorities say they are looking to control measures have included restrictions on pur- ufacturing the rest of the year with ers. include factories and gas pipelines, curb high housing costs. chases of second §and third homes, higher minimum the overall growing economy,” said The slow pace of inventory accu- lifted overall private outlays to their The average price of a new home in 100 major down-payments and taxes in some cities on multiple Gus Faucher, senior economist at PNC mulation and harsh weather are highest level since December 2008. Financial Services in Pittsburgh. expected to hold the economy to an The decline in private residential cities rose 10.04 percent year-on-year in March to and non-locally owned homes. Prices in March rose The Institute for Supply annualized growth pace below 2 per- construction was led by a 1.1 percent 11,002 yuan ($1,775) per square metre, according to 0.38 percent from the previous month, the data Management (ISM) said its index of cent in the first quarter. That would drop in single-family home building. the China Index Academy which compiled the survey, showed, slowing from February’s increase of 0.54 per- national factory activity rose to 53.7 in be a step back from the fourth-quar- Public construction spending released late Monday. The increase compared with a cent, but still marking the 22nd straight month-on- March, up slightly from February’s ter’s 2.6 percent rate. In a separate nudged up 0.1 percent in February, rise of 10.79 percent in February, according to the month gain. read of 53.2. Economists polled by rate, the Commerce Department said with a 5.8 percent jump in federal academy, the research unit of real estate website Beijing led the rise in new home prices among the Reuters had forecast the index rising construction spending edged up 0.1 government outlays offsetting a 0.5 operator Soufun. 10 biggest Chinese cities in March, with the average to 54.0 in March. Readings above 50 percent to an annual rate of $945.7 percent fall in state and local govern- The number of cities where new home prices grew cost increasing 27.13 percent year-on-year to 33,069 indicate expansion in the sector, billion. Spending had declined 0.2 ment spending. —Reuters by more than one percent decreased, the academy yuan per square metre, the data showed. said in its release, which “indicates real estate prices in Prices in the southern city of Guangzhou increased most cities are steadying further”. The government 20.48 percent year-on-year and those in nearby Kurds say oil export initiative on hold has sought for more than three years to contain rising Shenzhen gained 19.02 percent. In Shanghai, China’s property prices, while also promising to increase the commercial capital, the average cost of a new home ARBIL: Plans to resume oil exports ished, the KRG shall begin to export issue like this,” said the official on con- supply of affordable housing with price increases came to 32,339 yuan per square metre, up 14.89 per- from Iraqi Kurdistan are on hold due from the region,” said the statement. dition of anonymity. stoking discontent among ordinary citizens. But at the cent from the same month a year ago. — AFP to ongoing repair work on a pipeline Industry sources however say the Crude from Kurdistan used to flow running from the Kirkuk oilfields to Kurds could in theory bypass the through a Baghdad-controlled Turkey, the regional government said damaged stretch and feed oil into the pipeline to the Turkish port of Ceyhan, in a statement. pipeline where it passes through their but exports via that channel dried up Kurdistan said last month it would territory, before crossing the Turkish more than a year ago due to a dispute begin exporting 100,000 barrels per border. The proposal to export via the over payments for oil companies day (bpd) from April 1 through Iraq’s federal pipeline marked a break- operating in the region. Since then, official pipeline network as a “gesture through in months of US shuttle the Kurds have trucked smaller quan- of goodwill” to ease a dispute with the diplomacy and tortuous negotiations tities of oil across the border while federal government in Baghdad. But over oil exports from the autonomous building their own separate pipeline the Kurdistan Regional Government region, which Baghdad wants to keep to Turkey in defiance of Baghdad, (KRG) said the federal oil ministry had under its control. which retaliated this year by cutting advised that it was “not yet ready” to Iraq’s Deputy Prime Minister for the region’s monthly budget alloca- receive any crude because of damage Energy Hussain Al-Shahristani publicly tion. to the pipeline from Kirkuk to the welcomed the initiative, but an oil More than one million barrels of oil Turkish port of Ceyhan, which has official told Reuters yesterday it had have already flowed through the new been repeatedly sabotaged over the been dismissed from the outset. “We Kurdish pipeline into storage tanks at past year. did not even sit to discuss their pro- Ceyhan, but Ankara has sought “It has been agreed that as soon as posal, and talking about 100,000 bar- Baghdad’s blessing before allowing the repairs to the pipeline are fin- rels is not a solution to a complicated exports to begin. — Reuters Euro-zone unemployment steady near record high BRUSSELS: The unemployment rate “The figures suggest that the EU and 35,000 in the euro-zone. across the 18-country euro-zone economic recovery is still too weak The number of unemployed in was steady near record highs in to make a significant dent in the the EU was down by 785,000 over February, official data showed yes- high level of unemployment,” said the previous 12 months, during terday, indicating the economic analyst Jonathan Loynes of Capital which time the economy emerged recovery is not sufficiently strong to Economics. from recession and the recovery create enough new jobs. While the The rate for the wider 28- spread to the most crisis-hit number of jobless dropped slightly, nation EU - which includes economies in southern Europe. the unemployment rate remained members like Britain and Poland “While this is relatively encouraging, flat at 11.9 percent, where it has that don’t use the euro currency unemployment remains worryingly been since October, according to - dipped to 10.6 percent from high ... and seems unlikely to come Eurostat, the European Union’s sta- 10.7 percent in January. Some down markedly any time soon given tistical agency. It peaked at 12.1 per- 65,000 people found new jobs probably gradual recovery,” said cent last year. during the month in the wider Howard Archer, an analyst with IHS Global Insight. The European Commission, the EU’s executive arm, predicts the euro-zone economy will grow 1.1 percent this year while the EU’s will expand 1.4 percent. That would pale in comparison to the US economy, which some expect to grow 3 per- cent, but would still be the bloc’s best performance since 2011. The euro-zone unemployment rate for those under the age of 25 dropped slightly from 23.6 percent in January to 23.5 percent in February, echoed by a drop from 23 percent to 22.9 percent for the wider EU. The overall unemployment rates continue to mask huge national dis- parities. In Spain, which has the bloc’s highest rate alongside Greece, the overall unemployment rate fell from 25.8 percent in January to 25.6 in February. In Italy, the rate continued an uninterrupted climb from about 12 percent a year earlier to 13 percent in February. In Germany, the bloc’s biggest econo- my, the jobless rate remained flat at ATHENS: British Finance Minister George Osborne (left) chats with his German counterpart Wolfgang Schauble during the Informal Meeting of a low 5.1 percent, and it dropped Ministers for Economic and Financial affairs family photo at the Zappion slightly to 4.8 percent in Austria, Hall in Athens yesterday. — AFP according to Eurostat. —AP BUSINESS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 Fed gets markets off to solid Q2 start Slack remains in economy, job market: Yellen
LONDON: World stocks got off to a solid start in the sec- a sixth straight day of gains after they faltered in nary” commitment to support the US economy. That recent lows at $1.3790 at 0920 GMT. But bolstered talk of Beijing bringing in ond quarter, as reassuring remarks by the head of the February and March. Major currencies and bonds con- appeared to reduce the chances interest rates would it remained constrained by talk that the selective stimulus. “I don’t belong to the Federal Reserve and stronger-looking emerging mar- tinued their cautious jockeying before this week’s rise sooner than had been expected. The safe-haven European Central Bank, which meets on doom and gloom brigade on China,” kets helped to keep their recent rally alive. A flurry of European Central Bank meeting and US jobs data. Japanese yen eased as Japan’s sales tax went up, Thursday, may have to cut interest rates said Nick Beecroft, chairman and senior merger-and-acquisition activity gave European bourses Global shares were also supported by Fed Chair although Yellen’s comments meant the dollar slipped again to keep inflation from slowing fur- market analyst at Saxo Capital Markets. a 0.3 percent boost yesterday, putting them on track for Janet Yellen, who reinforced the need for an “extraordi- against the euro and sterling. The euro was off its ther. Worryingly for policymakers, “I think there is a longer-term rebalanc- Markit’s Purchasing Managers’ Index on ing taking place and there is already talk Tuesday showed that despite growth in of various stimulus measures if there is all corners of the euro zone, companies any significant slowdown in the econo- have resumed cutting prices to drum up my.” business. After a similar warning by the IMF on Monday , EU Economic and Gold sags Monetary Affairs Commissioner Olli Growing risk appetite undermined Rehn said he was worried about decel- lower-risk assets that drew investors last erating inflation, at a meeting of EU month, at the height of the Ukrainian finance ministers in Athens. “I am con- crisis. German government bonds lost cerned about a possibility of having a ground in early European trade as prolonged period of low inflation in the Italian and Spanish yields dipped back euro zone, because this would negative- towards their historical lows. Gold ly affect the rebalancing process of the dropped to a seven-week low of euro zone economy,” he told reporters. $1,278.34 per ounce , despite Yellen’s dovish comments. The yen slipped to a Emerging hope three-week low against the dollar of Asian stocks climbed to a four-month 103.44 yen and a nine-month low high overnight as a rebound in emerg- against the risk-sensitive Australian dol- ing markets helped to offset a minor slip lar. Crude oil futures were off three- by Japan’s Nikkei, subdued by the week highs following news Russia was prospect of new taxes cooling the econ- withdrawing some troops from the omy. Investors are buying back emerg- Ukrainian border. US crude futures ing-market assets after a bruising start stood at $101.31 per barrel, off Friday’s to the year caused by worries about a high of $102.24. reduction in US central bank stimulus, Copper prices hovered just off a pockets of political instability and three-week high. “It’s generally accepted China’s slowing economy. MSCI’s main that the Chinese economy is on a slow- EM index was at a three-month high, ing trajectory,” said James Glenn of having outperformed the S&P 500 in National Australia Bank in Melbourne. recent weeks. Calm in Crimea also saw “(But) we expect global demand to pick Russia’s rouble and main stock market up gradually over 2014 as the advanced climb to their highest since February. economies start to see some improve- More lacklustre Chinese data also ment.” — Reuters
MUMBAI: Indian office goers walk past the bronze bull outside the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) during intra-day trade in Mumbai yesterday. India’s central bank kept key interest rates steady in a widely anticipated move less than a week before the start of national elections, due to start April 7. — AFP Gold recovers from seven-week lows LONDON: Gold prices rose yesterday, lack of bounce yesterday following the recovering early losses, as comments somewhat dovish comment from from Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen Yellen... gave an indication of how the defending easy-money policies hurt the sentiment in gold has changed,” Saxo dollar, while a drop to seven-week lows Bank’s head of research Ole Hansen said. overnight sparked interest from bar- “With safe haven and physical buy- gain-hunting buyers. ing absent, the speculative position is Spot gold was up 0.3 percent at currently being scaled back, with $1,287.20 an ounce at 0940 GMT, while upticks seen as an opportunity to US gold futures for June delivery were reduce exposure.” up $3.70 an ounce at $1,287.40. The “The snappy bounce we saw metal fell to a low of $1,278.34 an ounce overnight could be a sign of some in Asian trade as stocks rallied on the emerging bottom fishing,” he said. The back of Yellen’s comments, which reas- dollar retreated, stock markets rose in sured investors that the bank would Europe and Asian shares hit a four- maintain monetary support for the US month high yesterday after Yellen’s com- economy. ments and China’s official PMI survey, Such comments would usually lift which showed the manufacturing sec- gold, which has benefited in recent tor managed to continue expanding in years from the low interest rates and March. Gold, which is priced in dollars, concerns over inflation sparked by the tends to take support from weakness in Fed’s ultra-loose monetary policy. “The the US currency. — Reuters Oil slips towards $107 on data, Libya ports
LONDON: Brent crude slipped towards barrel. US crude for May delivery fell 37 $107 yesterday due to lackluster manufac- cents to $101.21 a barrel. turing data from China and Europe and the Brent’s premium over US crude possibility of a jump in supplies from Libya widened to $6.29 a barrel, after hitting $6 a after rebels blocking eastern oil ports hint- barrel on Monday to match its narrowest ed at a deal with Tripoli. Activity in China’s point of the last three weeks. Investors also factory sector edged up in March, accord- continued to keep tabs on the Ukraine cri- ing to government data, which economists sis, which has raised fears of possible sup- said was not enough to dispel concerns ply disruptions from Russia, the world’s sec- that the world’s second-largest economy ond-largest oil exporter. In a gesture that slowed more than expected in the first could ease tension in the worst East-West quarter. stand-off since the Cold War, Russia pulled Growth in euro-zone factories also some troops back from near Ukraine’s east- cooled, a business survey showed yester- ern frontier, a move the United States said day, and firms have returned to cutting would be a positive sign if it is confirmed as prices in order to drum up business. Rebels a withdrawal. in eastern Libya may be close to reopening “The diffusion of tensions in the three oil ports, which accounted for Ukraine crisis has already helped to reduce exports of 600,000 barrels per day (bpd) Brent’s risk premium to near zero, with the before they were occupied last summer, a market tumbling from early March highs,” leader from the rebels’ tribe told state said Andrey Kryuchenkov at VTB Capital in media on Monday. London. Traders were also cautious ahead The comments were the most opti- of important US unemployment numbers mistic for months and came after the gov- later this week. “People are reluctant to ernment met a rebel demand to release take any fresh macro interpretation until three of their fighters, but a previous deal we see what the US unemployment data to reopen the ports fell through in holds,” said Mark Keenan, head of com- December. “I would be cautious on Libya as modities research in Asia at Societe we have heard such comments before Generale, referring to the non-farm payrolls without seeing exports return from the data due on Friday. east,” Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch “That’s going to be the major determi- said. “The situation in Libya could get nant for prices in the macro perspective.” worse before it gets better.” Libya’s oil US commercial crude oil stocks are expect- exports have fallen to less than 100,000 ed to have continued to build last week on bpd from a post-civil war peak of more higher imports, despite an expected than 1 million bpd as armed militias and upswing in refinery runs, while inventories protesters have seized and blocked facili- of refined oil products were projected to ties. At 1106 GMT Brent crude for May have fallen, a preliminary Reuters poll of delivery was down 26 cents at $107.50 a four analysts showed. — Reuters BUSINESS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 Crimea spurs German rethink on energy policy
BERLIN: Current tensions with Russia over Ukraine must be found.Last week, Chancellor Angela Merkel would constitute a clear ‘yes’ to the use of fracking,” last week, while Gabriel suggested there was “no sen- have turned the spotlight on Germany’s heavy said the Ukraine crisis would lead to “a new look at said one of Merkel’s former ministers, the conserva- sible alternative” to Russian gas. The issue is suffi- dependence on Russian gas and are pushing Europe’s energy policy as a whole.” Some people have inter- tive Peter Ramsauer. And “that, in turn, would beg the ciently important to be on the agenda of an energy biggest economy to reconsider its entire energy poli- preted this seemingly anodyne remark as a hidden question, why not tap our own domestic resources,” summit yesterday evening between Merkel, Gabriel cy. It is currently Germany’s aim to be able to meet as call to reconsider Germany’s plans and targets for the he said. and the heads of Germany’s 16 regional states. Berlin much as 80 percent of its energy needs from renew- energy transformation, formulated by Merkel herself With parliament yet to give its green light to the is counting on a deep reform of its system of subsi- able sources such as wind and solar power by 2050. three years ago. Others suggest that the remarks- general use of fracking, the technology’s advocates, dies for clean energy, currently the cornerstone of the The country is also committed to phasing out nuclear made in the presence of Canadian Prime Minister above all industry, never tire in pointing to the com- country’s energy transition. power completely over the next decade or so. Stephen Harper-could herald an about-face on the paratively high cost of energy in Europe. A corresponding draft law, one of Merkel’s key And gas — 35 percent of which Germany imports highly controversial technology of fracking. That, they argue, is due to the fact that fracking is projects during her third term in office, is to be from Russia-should act as a good stop-gap until the not currently allowed. And they hope that the current approved by cabinet on April 9. But the draft has country’s renewable capacity is fully in place. But with Fracking in spotlight debate over Germany’s dependence on Russia gas come under heavy scrutiny on the part of the regional the crisis over Ukraine and the threat of a tit-for-tat At a joint news conference, Harper said that will advance their cause. states who take issue with subsidy cuts. battle of sanctions, Germany may have to reconsider Canada was prepared to export its natural gas. But But Economy and Energy Minister Sigmar Gabriel “We mustn’t expect all differences to be ironed its energy policy. that could prove problematic in a country where and Environment Minister Barbara Hendricks, both out” yesterday, said Merkel’s spokesman Steffen Some, like the environmentalist Greens party, there is deep popular and political-opposition to centre-left Social Democrats, have firmly shut the Seibert. Gabriel wants substantial reductions in subsi- insist the country should step up its renewable drive hydraulic fracturing for shale oil and gas. “If the chan- door on such a prospect. dies for renewables, so as to bring down consumers’ while others insist that alternative sources of gas cellor is eyeing imports from North America, that “In no case do we want fracking,” Hendricks said electricity bills. — AFP Japan shoppers see first sales tax rise in 17 years Shoppers make last-minute dash to stores
TOKYO: Prices rose across Japan yesterday as a controversial sales tax rise came into effect, with everything from beer to washing machines costing more, sparking fears a drop in consumer spending will derail a nascent economic recovery. Tokyo hiked the levy to 8.0 percent from 5.0 percent as it looks to control a public debt mountain, but corpo- rate Japan’s concerns were highlighted by a closely watched survey of business sentiment showing bosses are cautious about the future. In a country beset by years of deflation, critics warn that already thrifty consumers JAKARTA: Laborers work on a building under construction in Jakarta yesterday. Indonesia swung to a would snap their wallets shut. Millions of higher-than-expected trade surplus in February as a jump in palm oil prices and slowdown in imports shoppers made a last-minute dash to stores boosted Southeast Asia’s top economy, official data showed yesterday. — AFP in recent weeks, while nervous retailers are now watching for signs of falling sales. The last time Japan rolled out a higher sales levy, TOKYO: People shop at the Itoyokado supermarket in Tokyo yesterday. Prices rose across Indonesia swings to trade in 1997, it was followed by years of deflation Japan yesterday as a controversial sales tax rise came into effect, with everything from and tepid growth, although other factors, beer to washing machines costing more, sparking fears a drop in consumer spending will including the Asian financial crisis, were also derail a nascent economic recovery. — AFP surplus on palm oil prices blamed. Among those waking up to the high- er prices was 18-year-old university student JAKARTA: Indonesia swung to a higher-than-expect- percent in February due to cheaper food costs, the Hibiki Ishida, who was not impressed when ed trade surplus in February as a jump in palm oil data showed, continuing a recent downward trend he bought his favorite chewing gum yester- India keeps rates on prices and slowdown in imports boosted Southeast after a surge last year sparked by a fuel price hike. day. “I get this gum every morning and I know Asia’s top economy, official data showed yesterday. However, the figure is still above the central bank’s the price is 120 yen ($1.15),” he said. The surplus of $785.3 million came after a $431 mil- target of 3.5-5.5 percent. The data is positive news for “But I handed 120 yen to the shop clerk hold ahead of polls lion deficit in January caused by a controversial ban on the economy after speculation the US Federal Reserve today and she told me it was now 123 yen- mineral ore shipments that hit exports. Economists would start to wind down its economic stimulus pro- that unnerved me.” Others, like a 20-year-old MUMBAI: India’s central bank kept key interest led by conservative hawk Narendra Modi, win- had expected a surplus of around $420 million. gram prompted huge falls in the Jakarta stock market graduate surnamed Yoshida-who is set to rates steady yesterday in a widely anticipated ning the elections which end in May. Foreign Inflation also eased in March, and both indicators and rupiah last year. start a new job and live on her own-have move less than a week before the start of nation- investors have driven up the Indian stock market add to signs in recent months that the economy has Both the currency and stocks have also recently been planning for the hike, with some help. al elections. After a meeting in the financial capi- in recent months, expecting a more business- stabilised after being hard hit by emerging market tur- regained strength but the central bank warned last “My mother has given me lots of daily tal Mumbai, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said friendly government to take over from the scan- moil last summer. The price of crude palm oil rose month economic growth was still at risk of further stuff like tissue paper and plastic cling wrap,” the benchmark repo rate, at which it lends to dal-tainted Congress party. Congress has about four percent in February, according to data from tapering and a slowdown in China. she said. commercial banks, would remain at 8.0 percent. become deeply unpopular after a decade in the national statistics agency. Analysts have said the bank may face pressure to “So I can survive for the time being.” The “At the current juncture, it is appropriate to power over a string of corruption scandals and Indonesia is the world’s biggest producer of the cut rates from the present 7.5 percent in coming rise has presented a huge challenge for Prime hold the policy rate, while allowing the rate the slowing economy, which is expanding at its commodity, which is used in numerous everyday months, as the country holds nationwide legislative Minister Shinzo Abe since he swept to power increases undertaken during September 2013- slowest rate in a decade. Despite the economic goods from biscuits to shampoo. Imports fell nearly 10 and presidential elections. Slightly offsetting the news, in late 2012 on a ticket to drag the world’s January 2014 to work their way through the slowdown, economists do not foresee rate cuts. percent on year to $13.78 billion, the data showed. HSBC’s manufacturing purchasing managers index-a number-three economy out of a cycle of economy,” RBI governor Raghuram Rajan wrote “We are staring at a long pause (on rates). “The trade surplus was beyond our expectation and gauge of manufacturing activity-narrowed further in falling prices and tepid growth. in his statement. The RBI last raised rates on Uncertainty on inflation will keep RBI on its toes we believe it was helped by the high (palm oil) prices March to 50.1, from 50.5 in February, with the bank January 28, the third hike since September last and prevent rate cut even in if industrial slow- and a decline in imports,” said Bank Central Asia econ- blaming a slowdown in domestic demand. A figure Nervous retailers year as part of its battle against high inflation. down sharpens,” Baroda’s Nitsure said. omist David Sumual. above 50 points to growth while anything below indi- Yesterday, defending the rise-which could Most economists had predicted yesterday’s Some believe the rate cycle in India has not Inflation eased to 7.32 percent in March from 7.75 cates contraction. — AFP be followed by another, to 10 percent-Abe decision as India’s most widely watched inflation yet peaked. “I am not sure 100 percent that we pointed to spiralling healthcare and social measure-the Wholesale Price Index-fell to a are in a pause,” said senior economist Arun Singh welfare costs, which are straining the public nine-month low of 4.68 percent in February from US business information group Dun & purse in a rapidly ageing society. The rise “is from 5.05 percent a month earlier. Rajan Bradstreet. “Upside risks to inflation are clearly meant to offset increases in social security remained concerned by retail inflation, however, visible. The RBI is focused on controlling inflation costs over the years and to maintain the due to the possibility of a weaker-than-normal and it has already said price rise needs to be con- country’s trust”, he told reporters, adding that monsoon and adjustments to state-controlled trolled for sustainable growth. So, further tight- the battle to defeat years of growth-sapping prices of agricultural commodities. Economists ening cannot be ruled out.” deflation would continue. had underlined that India’s parliamentary elec- India’s economy is likely to grow at between But a Kyodo news agency poll earlier this tions, set to begin next Monday, would make 5.0-6.0 percent in 2014-15 but faces downside year said about three quarters of Japanese the RBI cautious about making any changes to risks, the central bank said. India’s equity markets felt no impact from the growth efforts, which its policy. “RBI is facing a lot of uncertainties. The reacted little to the RBI decision with the bench- included an unprecedented monetary easy question of whether we will get a stable govern- mark index of the Bombay Stock Exchange con- program by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) that ment or not is yet to be answered,” Rupa Rege tinuing to hover 0.21 percent or 47.97 points helped sharply weaken the yen and boost Nitsure, chief economist at Bank of Baroda, told lower at 22,340.45 points. company profits. Retailers launched special AFP. Opinion polls point to the main opposition India’s currency and bond markets were deals to keep customer traffic steady, such as Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), closed for a holiday. — AFP offering more points on shopping cards or promising a boost to the quality-and in some cases, volume-of their pricier products. “There is a risk that my sales will drop,” said Masayuki Komatsubara, who runs a small Tokyo shop that sells seaweed and other dried food products. “I’m going to try to find cheaper stuff with the same quality...so that KARACHI: A Pakistani stockbroker watches latest share prices on a digital board during a trading my prices don’t rise too much.” Grocery store session at the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) in Karachi yesterday. The benchmark KSE-100-Index giant Inageya said it had to temporarily shut closed at 27565.50, with increase a 405.59 points at the end of the day. — AFP half its 130 locations yesterday, after technical problems tied to adjusting cash registers for the rate hike. Earlier in the day, a closely watched BoJ survey showed that business Australia keeps rates confidence soared to a more than six-year high in the January-March quarter. However, companies were cautious about the future as the survey of more than 10,000 MUMBAI: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan announces the first on hold at 2.5% firms pointed to luke-warm investment and bimonthly monetary policy statement at the RBI headquarters in Mumbai yesterday. slumping sentiment for the April-June quar- Rajan announced yesterday that the key policy rate will remain unchanged since retail inflation still remains “sticky” but introduced steps to increase liquidity and contain SYDNEY: Australia’s central bank yesterday kept while the unemployment rate-currently at 6.0 per- ter. volatility in the money market, according to a local news agency. —AP interest rates at a record low 2.5 percent for a sev- cent and already the highest in a decade-was “Firms are cautious about the future enth straight board meeting amid only tentative expected to rise “a little further in the near term”. course of the economy as the impact of the signs that the non-mining economy is improving. Looking ahead, Stevens said “continued accom- tax hike remains uncertain,” said Hideki The central bank indicated a “period of stability” modative monetary policy should provide support Matsumura, an analyst at Tokyo’s Japan in the cash rate as the commodity-powered nation’s to demand, and help growth to strengthen over Research Institute. German jobless rate transition away from its reliance on the mining sec- time”. “Inflation is expected to be consistent with While Toyota, Panasonic and other major tor struggles to take hold. the 2-3 percent target over the next two years,” he companies are boosting wages for the first “In the board’s judgment, monetary policy is added. The Australian dollar fell slightly after the time in years, exports are still struggling and continues to ease appropriately configured to foster sustainable announcement to 92.71 US cents, down from 92.81 Japanese factories logged a surprising drop growth in demand and inflation outcomes consis- US cents just before the data was released. “The in February output. FRANKFURT: Unemployment in Germany, In unadjusted terms, the German jobless tent with the target,” the bank said in a statement most important thing to note, in our view, is that Tokyo’s bid to stoke lasting inflation Europe’s largest economy, continued to ease in total fell by 83,100 to 3.055 million and the that was similar to a month ago. Governor Glenn the mining investment slowdown has barely start- appear to be taking hold which, together March, as the labor market benefits from the unadjusted jobless rate was fell to 7.1 percent Stevens said consumer demand had firmed “slight- ed,” said Capital Economics analyst Daniel Martin. with higher prices due to the tax rise, has improving economic outlook, official data from 7.3 percent, the office calculated. “The ly”, foreshadowing a solid expansion in housing “The government’s survey of investment intentions exacerbated concerns that the economy showed yesterday. German economy got off to a good start in construction, while business conditions and confi- suggests that mining investment will fall sharply in could lose its momentum. The government The number of people registered as unem- 2014,” said labor office chief Frank-Juergen dence had also improved and exports were rising. FY 2014/15 after year of strong gains. has launched a special budget to help count- ployed in Europe’s top economy fell by 12,000 Weise. But at the same time, resources sector invest- “So while there have been a few encouraging er any slowdown while some are looking to to 2.901 million, after adjustment for seasonal “Against the backdrop of the Crimea crisis, ment spending was set to decline significantly. “At signs in other areas of the economy over recent the BoJ’s easing campaign to help soothe the blips, the Federal Labor Office said in a state- short-term economic expectations have this stage, signs of improvement in investment months, such as the housing and retail sectors, it is impact of a fall in consumer demand. ment. Analysts had been projecting a smaller become somewhat cloudier, but remain at a intentions in other sectors are only tentative, as still far too early to say that the rebalancing will go “I believe in three months’ time we will be decline of about 7,500. The unemployment very good level,” Weise said. “On the labor mar- firms wait for more evidence of improved condi- smoothly.” Most economists saw nothing in the lat- saying the impact on the economy from the rate, which measures the number of people ket, the increase in employment is continuing tions before committing to expansion plans,” he est comments from the RBA to change their fore- tax increase wasn’t that bad,” Yuki Endo, an looking for work relative to the total of people and has even gathered momentum recently, said. casts for the cash rate with the next move widely economist at Hamagin Research Institute, in jobs or unemployed, was unchanged at 6.7 due not least to the very mild winter weather. Public spending was also set to be subdued tipped to be a rise, but not until early 2015. — AFP told Dow Jones Newswires. “The economy percent in seasonally-adjusted terms in March, Prospects are looking better for the unem- will overcome the tax hike.” — AFP the Federal Labor Office said. ployed,” Weise said. — AFP BUSINESS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 2014 Cadillac ATS challenges world’s best compact luxury cars
DUBAI: The Cadillac ATS compact luxury sports sedan challenges the world’s best premium cars with an acclaimed balance of performance and refinement, wrapped in a progressive expression of Cadillac’s Art & Science design philosophy. With one of the lowest curb weights in the segment - nearly 1,497 kg - the ATS’s driving dynamics are rooted in mass efficiency, which helps make it Cadillac’s lightest and most agile sedan. Germany’s famed Nurburgring served as one of the key testing grounds, along with addi- tional roads, race tracks and laboratories around the globe, where ATS engineers balanced per- formance with Cadillac’s trademark refinement. KIA Kuwait declared ‘Best A long, 2,775 mm wheelbase and wide front/rear tracks are the cornerstones of the ATS’s firmly planted stance, which is enhanced Premium Service Provider’ by short overhangs and taut sheet metal that appears to wrap tightly around the tires. KUWAIT: National Agencies Group, a sub- satisfaction in these areas,” explained Greg. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard on all mod- an instrument panel that wraps into the doors CUE and Navigation package. sidiary of Abdulaziz Al-Ali Al-Mutawa Key topics such as industry best prac- els. Bold vertical lighting elements - including and a center stack in the mid-instrument panel A seven-speaker Bose(r) premium sound sys- Group of Companies and the certified dis- tices, customer satisfaction and quality LED front signature lighting detail - as well as that flows into the center console. LED lighting tem with Active Noise Cancelation technology is tributor of KIA Motors in Kuwait, has suc- assurance were presented, debated and illuminating outside door handles and active for the bold gauge cluster enables clear, at-a- offered on the standard model. A 10-speaker cessfully hosted the 2014 KIA Middle East & discussed among delegates in order to grille shutters, lend technologically advanced glance viewing in all lighting conditions, while surround sound upgrade is included with Africa Customer Service and Quality agree upon solutions and action plans. style and function to the ATS. The grille shutters ambient lighting accents functional elements of Performance and Premium Collections. A navi- Conference at The Regency Hotel in Kuwait The conference also witnessed awards close when additional engine cooling is not the console and doors. Real wood, metal plating gation system is also available with Performance City during March 19-20, 2014. being given to the region’s top dealers in required, to reduce aerodynamic drag and and carbon fiber trim and Cadillac’s cut-and- Collections and is standard with the Premium The conference was chaired by the Service Quality, where National Agencies enhance fuel economy. sewn instrument panel, console and doors Collection. General Manager of Abdulaziz Al-Ali Al- Group was recognized as the best premium The new Intellibeam feature - included with enhance the emotional connection to the ATS. The ATS is offered with Cadillac CUE (with or Mutawa Group of Companies, Mr. Greg car service provider. the Driver Awareness or Driver Assist packages - Choices of many interior color themes, each with without navigation) - a comprehensive, in-vehi- Maine and attended by delegates from 21 KIA Motors has experienced tremen- automatically deploys high-beam headlamps unique accent trim material, cover a wide range cle experience that merges intuitive design with countries of the MENA region as well as dous growth in Kuwait and the MENA when needed and instantly turns them down of flavors - from light, open and warm to dark auto industry-first controls and commands for senior managers from KIA Motors regional region due to its introduction of award- when oncoming traffic is detected. HID, High and serious, bold technical and sporty. information and entertainment data. It is headquarters in Dubai and global head- winning cars which are characterized by Intensity Discharge headlamps, includes designed to be unique for each consumer, from quarters in Korea, who came together with outstanding quality, style, features and val- Adaptive Forward Lighting and LED vertical Additional available interior features include: the “simple user” to the fully connected “super the objective to share knowledge, cover ue for money. In its efforts to always serve light; signatures are standard on all models. * Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity user.” best practices and discuss ways to better better its growing customer base, National A driver-focused interior with integrated * USB, auxiliary and SD memory card ports The ATS is offered as a well-equipped stan- serve KIA’s growing customer base. Agencies Group offers four KIA service cen- technology and crafted materials complements * Keyless access and keyless push-button dard model and in Performance and Premium “In the age where technological ters conveniently located throughout the exterior elements and supports the ATS’s start Collections. Two engines - including one four- advancement and innovation are the norm, Kuwait, with two in Shuwaikh, one in driving experience. Everything from the place- * Full-color reconfigurable head-up display cylinder and a V-6 - deliver strong power to the we believe the chief differentiating factor Ahmadi and one in Jahra. The dealership ment of the pedals to the position of the shifter * Leatherette or leather seating surfaces. ATS and capitalizes on the car’s lightweight and for KIA rests in our aftersales service and also ensures adequate supply of spare is designed for effortless and intuitive perform- New for 2014 is a frameless inside rearview rigid structure to complement its performance support. Holding the KIA Motors MENA parts through various outlets& encourages ance driving. Available performance seats have mirror that contributes to the ATS’s technologi- with efficiency. Service & Quality Conference is essential to customers to always use genuine parts for power-adjustable bolsters to optimize lateral cally advanced and clean aesthetic. Also, a 230- The 2014 ATS is available in UAE showrooms ensuring that KIA’s regional partners are in their safety by providing them at the best support during high-load cornering. volt power outlet has been added to the rear of with an MSRP starting from AED 136,500 for the a position to achieve maximum customer possible prices. Contributing to the interior’s intuitive feel is the center console on models equipped with the 2.5L four-cylinder. Renault-Nissan partnership celebrates 15th anniversary Four key business units prepare to converge
DUBAI: The Renault-Nissan Alliance is celebrating nissan.com/page/timeline. Growing in emerging markets its 15th anniversary yesterday, only days before the When the Renault-Nissan Alliance was formed in global car group launches its next significant wave 2013: Another Record Year 1999, about 1 percent of total group sales came of integration. Renault and Nissan came together In 2013, the Alliance, including AVTOVAZ - from the so-called BRICs - Brazil, Russia, India and in1999, when Renault invested 643 billion yen Russia’s largest automaker - sold a record 8.3 mil- China. In 2013, more than 30 percent of total group (approximately 5 billion euros or $5.4 billion at the lion cars. sales came from these four countries alone. Also in time) for a 36.8 percent stake in Nissan, which at the The Renault-Nissan Alliance accounts for one in 2013, the Alliance launched an all-new shared vehi- time was close to bankruptcy. Since then, the com- 10 cars sold worldwide, the fourth largest car cle architecture specifically for emerging markets, panies have reached sales of 8.3 million units, up group globally. The Alliance has eight brands: called CMF-A. from 4.8 million units in 1999, and moved into the Renault, Nissan, Renault Samsung, Infiniti, Venucia, To learn more about CMF-A and the Alliance’s top tier of global automakers. Today, Renault has a Dacia, Datsun and Lada. emerging market offensive, click here: 43.4 percent stake in Nissan, while Nissan has a 15 The Alliance generated approximately Ä2.8 bil- http://www.media.blog.alliance-renault- SINGAPORE: A man walks towards the Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp (OCBC) head- percent stake in Renault. lion in synergies in 2013, another new record. nissan.com/news/renault-nissan-confirms-new- quarters building in Singapore yesterday. Singapore’s Oversea-Chinese Banking “Together, Renault and Nissan have significantly Synergies are generated from cost reductions, cost vehicles-specifically-tailored-for-growth-markets Corp (OCBC) said yesterday it has offered to buy Hong Kong’s Wing Hang Bank for expanded their global footprint and generated avoidance and revenue increases. Only new or Renault-Nissan is also pioneering zero-emission $4.95 billion as it seeks to boost its presence in the giant Chinese market. — AFP economies of scale vastly larger than either compa- incremental synergies - not cumulative synergies - mobility. In 2013, the Renault and Nissan sold a ny could accomplish on its own,” said Renault- are taken into account every year. cumulative 134,000 zero-emission vehicles world- Nissan Alliance Chairman and CEO Carlos Ghosn. By 2016, that amount is expected to rise to at wide since December 2010 when Nissan LEAF went OCBC offers $4.95bn for “Renault and Nissan have charted a unique course least Ä4.3 billion following the convergence of on sale, more than all major automakers combined. for 15 years, maximizing synergies while nurturing Engineering, Manufacturing & Supply Chain Since 1999, the Alliance has expanded to accom- HK’s Wing Hang Bank each company’s distinct brands and corporate cul- Management, Purchasing and Human Resources modate new projects and partners worldwide. ture.” on 1 April. Convergence marks the next step in the Today, the Alliance owns a majority stake in a joint The Renault-Nissan Alliance is now the auto sec- 15-year evolution of the Alliance. venture that controls AVTOVAZ, Russia’s largest car SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Oversea-Chinese and BNY International Financing Corp. who tor’s longest-lasting and most productive cross-cul- Under the convergence plan, the four key func- maker. Banking Corp (OCBC) said yesterday it has hold an aggregate 44.79 percent of Wing tural collaboration - a model business case in an tions will be jointly managed by Renault and The Alliance also has important strategic rela- offered to buy Hong Kong’s Wing Hang Hang shares. Other shareholders holding a industry notorious for corporate breakups. To learn Nissan, with a newly appointed Alliance Executive tionships with Germany’s Daimler, China’s Dongfeng Bank for $4.95 billion as it seeks to boost its total 3.37 percent of Wing Hang have also what independent, objective experts say about the Vice President leading each function, and a new Motor, India’s Ashok Leyland and Japan’s Mitsubishi presence in the giant Chinese market. agreed to accept the offer. OCBC’s wholly Alliance and collaborations in the auto industry, management committee to oversee implementa- Motors. The Renault-Nissan Alliance employs about OCBC said in a statement the acquisition owned subsidiary OCBC Bank (China) Ltd watch this mini-documentary: http://blog.alliance- tion. To read the full convergence plan, click here: 450,000 people around the world, including at would provide it with a platform to grow its has 16 branches and sub-branches on the renault-nissan.com /node/1856. To see a timeline of http://www.media.blog.alliance-renault- AVTOVAZ and Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle yuan-denominated businesses, and broad- mainland. significant events in Alliance history, check out this nissan.com/news/renault-and-nissan-to-converge- Company, Nissan’s joint venture with China’s en its access to US and Hong Kong dollar OCBC also has a branch in Hong Kong interactive infographic: http://blog.alliance-renault- four-major-alliance-functions-1-april Dongfeng Motor. funds. and another in Taiwan, while its private Hong Kong is the world’s biggest off- banking subsidiary, Bank of Singapore, has shore market for the yuan, which is gaining a branch in Hong Kong. Wing Hang has a international significance in tandem with network of 70 branches in Hong Kong, Brazil exports $14.037bn worth China’s growing economic might. OCBC Macau and China. “I personally think that said its “pre-conditional voluntary general what OCBC has offered is definitely a hefty offer” for Wing Hang was made through sum, but it is still slightly below the gener- of products to Arab states in ’13 OCBC’s wholly owned subsidiary OCBC al estimate consensus of what would have Pearl Limited. been paid for a Hong Kong bank,” said It offered to buy each Wing Hang share Kenny Kan, market analyst at CMC Markets Exports to Kuwait touched $306 million at HK$125, or a total of HK$38.43 billion in Singapore. “Without this acquisition, it ($4.95 billion) “in cash”, saying it has “suffi- would have taken a longer period of time cient financial resources” to finance the for OCBC to reach out to a larger base in DUBAI: According to the latest reports released by the reached $209 million. Michel Alaby, General Secretary and deal. The offer price gives a 1.6 percent pre- the greater China area,” he said. Kan said Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, Brazil exported CEO of the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, said: “The mium to Wing Hang shares as of their last Hong Kong is attractive because it is the $14.037 billion worth of its products and produce to Arab Nations and Brazil have been key trade partners and closing price of HK$123, and about 67.3 world’s largest offshore market for the Arab countries in 2013 to reflect thriving bilateral trade. this reflects in the robust increase in trade values. Besides, percent over the 90-day average price, yuan. OCBC chief executive Samuel Tsien Arab countries imported products such as livestock and traditional export items such as coffee, tea and sugar, there OCBC said in a statement to the Singapore said in a statement that acquiring Wing meats; fat and oil; grains, seed and fruits; sugar and is a growing demand for Brazilian livestock, food grains and stock exchange. Hang “is a strategic component of our spices; and tea and coffee from the South American fruits from Arab countries. The Arab-Brazilian Chamber of OCBC said the acquisition would greater China strategy”. nation during the past year. Commerce has always played a significant role in opening strengthen its “strategic goal of deepening Speaking at a media briefing after the Brazil exported products to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, up venues for traders from both regions to further their its presence in its four core markets- announcement, Tsien said OCBC plans to Qatar and Kuwait, among other Arab nations. The Kingdom trade relations. There is a tremendous potential in food Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the delist Wing Hang from the Hong Kong of Saudi Arabia was the biggest importer in 2013 with trade and we will continue to extend our support in order greater China region” comprised of the stock market as it wants to keep 100 per- imports worth $2.839 billion, followed by the UAE at $2.589 to boost this thriving business.” mainland, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. cent ownership. Remaining listed requires billion. Egypt was third with $2.201 billion, followed by The Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce was estab- The offer, however, is “subject to certain that at least 25 percent must be owned by Qatar $334 million and Kuwait $306 million. Among the lished to consolidate and expand partnerships, generate pre-conditions being satisfied, including the public, he said. “If it is not 100 percent products, the export of live animals from Brazil to the region opportunities, and bring Arab and Brazilian companies the obtaining of regulatory approvals”, it owned by us there would be leakages of increased the most, up 73.28 per cent from $88 million in together. It has been in operation for more than 60 years, said. the earnings that we contribute to the enti- Michel Alaby, General Secretary 2012 to $153 million in 2013. The export of food products playing an active role in boosting economic, cultural and OCBC said it has received “irrevocable ty which becomes unfair from our perspec- and CEO of the Arab-Brazilian such as grain, seed and fruits increased 52 per cent to reach tourism activities and facilitating the flow of information undertakings” to accept its offer from key tive because when we transfer knowledge Chamber of Commerce $262 million, while fat and oil increased by 26 per cent and between Arabs and Brazilians. shareholders, including the Fung family we don’t hold back,” said Tsien. —AFP Japan moves to expand foreign worker scheme
TOKYO: Japan is considering expanding a con- the concerns and we allowed people who had Such conditions “may well amount to slav- choose their workplace after coming to Japan. shrunk by a third from 1997, when public works troversial program that now offers workers objections to voice their objections.” Shiozaki ery”, the United Nations said in 2010, and called They are refused the right to sign and cancel peaked. By 2010, about a fifth of all construc- from China and elsewhere permits to work for said the LDP wanted to see harsher penalties on Tokyo to scrap the program. But Japan is contracts, so they have no freedom as labour- tion workers were older than 60. The lack of up to three years, as the world’s fastest-aging for Japanese companies that abused foreign desperate for more workers, especially in indus- ers,” said Ibusuki. workers has left construction companies strug- nation scrambles to plug gaps in a rapidly workers and would use external inspectors and tries such as construction and farming. With “If you don’t fix this structural problem, it gling to meet demand for new projects tied to shrinking workforce. local governments to monitor compliance. just under half its population expected to be doesn’t matter how much you tighten regula- the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and reconstruction Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s Liberal The program, started in 1993, sponsors aged 65 or older by 2060, Japan faces a severe tions, it won’t go away,” he said. Nearly 200 work in areas in northern Japan destroyed by Democratic Party yesterday submitted a pro- around 150,000 workers, mostly Chinese, for labor shortage that promises to hamper Abe’s companies were found to have mistreated the 2011 tsunami. posal to let workers to stay for up to five years, jobs in areas such as the garment industry and ambitious economic revival plans. trainees in 2012, a jump of 21 percent from two Shiozaki said two government panels report- relax hiring rules for employers and boost the farms. In theory, the foreign workers come to Shoichi Ibusuki, a lawyer who has represent- years earlier, government data show. There ing to Abe will discuss the proposal and consider number of jobs open to them. “We will Japan as trainees to acquire technical expertise, ed foreign workers based in Tokyo, said the pro- were 90 cases of failure to pay legal wages and it as part of a growth strategy to be announced strengthen the governance of the program,” but lawyers and labor activists say many face posed safeguards would not go far enough and more than 170 cases of violations of labor regu- in June. Foreign-born workers make up less than LDP lawmaker Yasuhisa Shiozaki, who authored abuse, from illegally low wages to the confisca- urged the government to abolish, rather than lations. The shortage of workers is most acute in 1.3 percent of Japan’s workforce, according to the proposal, told reporters. “We are aware of tion of their passports. expand, the program. “The workers can’t freely the construction industry, whose workforce has the 2010 census. — Reuters WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 technology Apple vs Samsung case starts before fresh jury
SAN JOSE: Jurors were selected for a million and is being appealed. If this Apple.” Price pressed prospective jurors Apple will get to present its case first. include more than half a dozen smart- high-stakes patent battle between new trial goes in Apple’s favor, it could about whether they would favor local Koh is allowing each side 25 hours phones from the Galaxy line, along smartphone rivals Apple and Samsung, result in an even bigger award since it company Apple with its headquarters a to present evidence to make its case to with the Galaxy 2 tablet. Samsung is setting the stage for attorneys to open involves better-selling Samsung short distance away in Cupertino over jurors Apple filed the suit against the countering with claims that Apple fire regarding who copied innovations. devices built with Google-backed South Korea-based Samsung. One South Korean consumer electronics infringes on its patented technology The case concerns smartphone and Android software. prospective juror from Apple’s home behemoth in February 2012 as “one for data transmission, imaging, audio tablet patents and is just the latest in a Unlike last year’s trial, this one takes city of Cupertino conceded she had an action in a worldwide constellation of and video in iPhone, iPad, iPod and long-running feud between the two aim at devices still on the market, such “affinity” for Apple and had read the litigation between the two companies,” Macintosh computer models. tech giants battling for supremacy in a as the Galaxy S3 from Samsung’s flag- biography of legendary Apple co- the judge said in a ruling prior to jury Apple has maintained publicly that multibillion-dollar market. ship line and iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S. founder Steve Jobs. selection. its patent battles are about “innovation Apple and Samsung lawyers will During a day-long interview process for At the behest of Samsung, she was Patents at issue in the case involve and the hard work that goes into begin opening remarks before of the weeding out potentially biased jurors, excused by the judge. Potential jurors unlocking touchscreens with gestures, inventing products that people love,” freshly-chosen panel of 10 jurors and candidates were asked what devices were also asked to share their thoughts automatically correcting words being and not about money. At a hearing ear- US District Court Judge Lucy Koh in the they or their relatives owned. about Google, the Internet titan typed, retrieving data sought by users ly this year, Apple demanded that California city of San Jose. The jury of behind Android software powering and performing actions on found data Samsung pay $40 per smartphone six women and four men promised Koh Jurors iPhone users Samsung smartphones at issue in the such as making a call after coming up incorporating its patented technology, they would keep open minds and only Jury candidates rattled off arrays of patent trial. Google engineers are with a phone number. according to court records. Any tri- consider evidence presented in her iPhones, iPads, iPods and Macintosh among those on the witness list for the umph at the trial would likely result in courtroom. computers, with scant mention of proceedings. While Apple has yet to Samsung counters a demand that infringing products be Koh presided over a trial last year Samsung devices other than television attack Google directly in court, the Apple argued in filings that a banned from sale in the US. that ended with a jury declaring sets or DVD players. “You are going to accusations in the trial here involve Google Quick Search Box in the And a ruling that patents were Samsung owed Apple more than a bil- hear that Samsung sold a lot of smart- features built into Android. Android-powered Galaxy Nexus steals infringed upon would also provide lion dollars in damages for infringing phones,” Samsung attorney Bill Price Apple lawyers told Koh that they from patented technology used by vir- legal ammunition to fire shots at newer patents with some older model said while questioning the panel. planned to call the company’s senior tual assistant Siri to answer queries in smartphone models or even those yet Android-powered devices. The dam- “Looking at you folks it may be hard vice president of worldwide marketing the iPhone. to be released, if they contain the same ages award was later trimmed to $929 to believe. I am getting Apple, Apple, Philip Schiller as their first witness. Samsung devices targeted by Apple technology. —AFP Syrup-makers go high-tech with wireless monitoring MILTON, Vermont: Maple syrup produc- monitors sap lines for leaks and provides tion has come a long way from metal buck- the information immediately on a smart- ets hung on trees, but even high-tech oper- phone or tablet. ations have had to rely on old-fashioned Nationally, maple syrup production foot patrols to fix a common problem - totaled 3.25 million gallons last year. leaks. The tubes that draw sap from trees Vermont led with 1.3 million gallons, fol- straight to sugar houses often get pulled lowed by New York, Maine, Wisconsin, Ohio, down or bent by falling limbs or chewed by Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, critters, meaning sugar-makers spend Massachusetts and Connecticut. Each of hours and sometimes days stomping those gallons of syrup required sugar-mak- through snowy woods to find and fix prob- ers to collect 40 gallons of sap. It takes lems - a big time-waster in a sugaring sea- warm days and cold nights for sap to flow, son that lasts just a few weeks. so the conditions are just right for syrup- But now sugar-makers are harnessing making for only about 4 to 6 weeks. And new technology to keep the precious sap cold weather has already pushed back flowing. Meadowbrook Maple Syrup in Vermont’s season this year. But Proctor January installed a monitoring system that researchers expect the new system to make is already paying off. Designed to help their operation more efficient and produc- mid-to-large scale syrup producers keep an tive. It will also give sugar-makers, who are electronic eye their sap vacuum lines, the prone to staying up late to boil sap down Tap Track system consists of solar battery- to syrup, a few extra hours of sleep, said powered radio units strapped to trees, with Brian Stowe, Proctor’s sugaring operations YEREVAN: Vahan Chakarian, president of the each unit monitoring the pressure on a manager. joint Armenian-US company Minno, shows half-dozen lines. The data is transmitted to “We find that a lot of sugar-makers get Armenia’s first tablet computer, ArmTab, YEREVAN: A man holds one of the Armenia’s first tablet computers, ArmTabs, designed by the a computer or smartphone, where it shows sleep deprived during the season, this designed by his company in Yerevan. —AFP up as a map with green dots indicating again they can take a quick look from their joint Armenian-US company Minno in Yerevan.— AFP lines with good sap flow and red dots indi- house and then they can go to bed and get cating leaks. Users can even get text mes- some good sleep and not have to worry,” sages alerting them to problems. Stowe said. Once a Soviet hub, Armenia “I think it’s the thing of the future. I really The ideal system would have a sensor at do,” owner Donnie Richards said. In the the end of each of the main lines. But that past, Richards and his crew would have to can be expensive for some sugar-makers - looks to revive tech sector walk the woods of Milton listening and about $200 per Smartrek vacuum sensor looking for leaks, which was time-consum- and $400 for a tank level sensor - so some ing. “And if you didn’t find the leak that day, sugar-makers may start with a smaller Strong heritage, unfriendly neighbors you didn’t get sap off that part of the number depending on what they want to woods all day long,” he said. monitor. YEREVAN: Once seen as a silicon valley of the ing capabilities in Armenia we plan in the near country’s economy and will bring in around $1 Now he uses his iPhone to check the “Whether it’s mine or Tap Track of any of Soviet Union, the tiny Caucasus nation of future that all the work on the exterior and billion,” said Vardanyan. system and can immediately see a leak and the other systems, the technology is fantas- Armenia is hoping the launch of its first tablet motherboard design and software implementa- when it is repaired. Richards’ operation tic,” said Eric Sorkin, of Thunder Basin Maple computer and smartphone could kickstart a tion will take place exclusively in Armenia.” includes about 5,000 taps, with about 18 Works in Cambridge, who was so Huge intellectual potential comeback for the country’s tech sector. The company already has a contract with miles of tubing spread out over more than impressed with Smartrek that he became a Some 500 tech firms are now working in the Designed-and soon set to be constructed-in Armenia’s education ministry to supply all first 100 acres. The new system costs $1 to $2 distributor. country and international giants such as graders in the country with a tablet computer by per tap, but inventor Jason Gagne said the In the past, Sorkin said, the only way to Armenia, the ArmPhone and ArmTab devices are Microsoft have started getting involved. “Our 2015. return on investment can be seen in one increase production was to make sure sap seen as a key steppingstone as the landlocked main task today is to maintain the current season. He said the test site of 20,000 taps is flowing in the system, and that meant state seeks to overcome crippling trade block- growth rates, increase the number of specialists Resurgence in Ontario resulted in a more than 5 per- lots of man-hours checking each line. “With ades from its neighbors to become an unlikely and then make sure they have well paid work to For many the resurgence of the high-tech cent increase in sap collection, or an extra these remote monitoring systems, we can industry hub. stop them being attracted abroad,” Vardanyan $15,000. effectively lower our labor costs and “The high-tech sector in Armenia already has sector in Armenia comes as no surprise. From said.For its part Armenia’s government has Gagne, who used to spend days on end increase our production,” he said. Gagne a long existence and now we need to take it computer systems in space ships to the electron- thrown its weight behind the industry by mak- patrolling his own sugar bush in Swanton, described an incident last year when his back to an international level,” Vahan Chakarian, ics in submarines, Armenia was at the heart of ing it a priority economic sector and pledging came up with the idea several years ago, system showed a leak where a porcupine president of the joint Armenian-US company the USSR technology sector. “One third of mili- that more help is on the way. “At this stage we teaming up with Canadian sugar-maker had cut the line. Just as workers had Minno behind project, said. tary electronics was designed and produced in have accumulated a huge potential for develop- Doug Thompson to develop the product. repaired the break, Tap Track showed “By building an Armenian tablet computer Armenia and there were several hundred thou- ment, but to move forward, we need to think The University of Vermont’s Proctor Maple another leak. we’ll create a brand that will make Armenia sand specialists worked on developing and man- and take new measures to help new companies Research Center is using a similar remote “You could follow the porcupine prints more recognizable on the world market,” ufacturing computer technology,” says Karen compete,” Prime Minister Tigran Sarkisian said at monitoring system for the first time this right to the next line where he’d cut it,” he Chakarian said. Compared to major international Vardanyan, executive director at the Union of a recent unveiling ceremony for the ArmTab and season, as the technology becomes more said. “Otherwise, it would have been a few brands funding and production targets for the Information Technology Enterprises in Yerevan. ArmPhone. commercially available. Smartrek, pro- more days before we found those two start-up are modest. The firm is spending some Armenia though faces considerable chal- “Now the government is preparing amend- duced by a Quebec-based company, also lines.” — AP $6.5 million over its first three years and aims to lenges if it is to compete on the international ments to the legislation that will mitigate tax get manufacturing levels up to some 100,000 level. Festering disputes with its two neighbors conditions for Start-up companies,” Sarkisian items annually. Turkey and Azerbaijan-including over the dis- said. Despite the challenges, all this leaves those Space tech provides Africa’s first While the devices are designed by Armenian puted territory of Nagorny Karabakh-mean that at the forefront sector optimistic for the future. experts, up till now production has been taking much of its borders are sealed off. “In Armenia there is a huge intellectual potential Islamic insurance for herders place in Hong Kong and the US. But those Those in the IT sector remain bullish about and favorable legislation that can help develop behind the project hope that will change soon. the prospects for development and point to this sphere,” says tablet producer Chakharian. “I WAJIR, Kenya: The son of a camel herder, “It is a cooperative welfare basket for the “We’ve been spending a lot of funds sending steady growth rates of over 20 percent despite am sure that in the next three to five years Hassan Bashir knows how tough traditional community,” Bashir added, who was our Armenian specialists to China to conduct Armenia’s flagging overall economic perform- Armenia will become famous for its IT produc- life in Kenya’s arid north is, where pastoral- inspired to switch from regular insurance quality tests where the tablets were being ance. “Our predictions show that by 2018 the IT tion and the ArmTab and ArmPhone will be the ists rely on livestock herds surviving boom broking to the Islamic system after “hot dis- assembled,” Chakarian said. “Given the engineer- sphere will become the dominant sector in the start of this.” — AFP and bust cycles of drought. But Bashir is cussions” with his family who refused his also an astute entrepreneur, developing “unethical” money. “I wanted to do some- Africa’s first livestock insurance scheme to thing to develop the people here,” he said. make payouts compliant with Islamic law, In 2011, fierce drought here in north- by bringing together Muslim scholars and eastern Kenya decimated herds with a dev- BlackBerry wins ruling number-crunching agricultural experts astating impact, and spiralled into famine using NASA weather satellites. in nearby war-torn Somalia. Like elsewhere “I’ve come from the community, and I in the Horn of Africa, vast numbers of live- against iPhone keyboard understand its needs,” said Bashir, a sharp- stock are kept as a form of savings account. suited businessman respectfully greeting But these living investments face natural elders dressed in traditional flowing robes hazards. “The animals are our lives,” said 65- SAN FRANCISCO: Troubled smart- further injury to BlackBerry from $5 billion today. phones under CEO John Chen, who in his hometown of Wajir, where goats and year old Abdi Aden Bulle, who lost some 40 phone maker BlackBerry has won Typo’s blatant theft of our patented The Canadian company is trying took charge last year. BlackBerry donkeys wander the dusty streets. Bashir, of his 50 cows, and eight of his 10 camels in an early round in its legal battle keyboard technology,” BlackBerry to bounce back by focusing more lost $5.9 billion in its last fiscal year 48, set up Takaful Insurance of Africa three the 2011 drought, a key driver in his deci- against an iPhone keyboard made said in a statement. Typo Products on its software than its smart- ending March 1. — AP years ago, which unlike ordinary insurance sion to join the scheme. by a startup co-founded by said it plans to appeal Orrick’s rul- schemes prohibited by Islam, takes only a “We sell the animals to get food, to pay “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest. ing. “Typo will continue to make management fee from clients. school fees, pay medical expenses.” Takaful A court order bans Seacrest’s and sell innovative products that “It is a fair and ethical way to protect made the first payouts this week in Wajir to company, Typo Products LLC, from busy people can’t live without,” the pastoralist’s livestock assets from natural 100 policyholders. On the bottom end, one selling its iPhone keyboard in the Los Angeles company said in a hazards,” said Bashir, whose 80-year old herder who had insured three goats and US while BlackBerry Ltd. proceeds statement. In court papers, Typo father was one of the first to receive a pay- paid a premium of $5 six months ago, with a patent infringement case Products warned that it might go out this week for his herd of 50 cows. received a payout of $7. against the product. BlackBerry out of business if it was not allowed Payments are assessed not according to At the higher end, a herder who paid contends Typo Products ripped off to keep selling its iPhone keyboard. deaths of individual animals as it would be some $940 to insure 50 cows received $720 the design from the physical key- Seacrest started Typo Products impossible to provide proof, but according in recompense, less than what he put in boards used for typing on with entrepreneur Laurence Hallier to an index drawn up by experts at the due to assessments of the severity of the BlackBerry’s phones. last year. The iPhone keyboard Nairobi-based International Livestock drought suffered in that area. US District Judge William Orrick went on sale in January as an alter- Research Institute (ILRI), using satellites to Rains were several weeks late this year. in San Francisco ruled that native to typing on a touch screen. measure vegetation coverage and thus the “It’s been very, very dry,” said herder Khalif BlackBerry is likely to prove its The physical keyboards on severity of drought. Mohammed, who lost three of his 15 goats infringement claims against Typo BlackBerry’s phones helped this year. Once cash payouts are made, Products and would be damaged if reshape the way that people used Community ‘welfare basket’ herders say they will use it to restock ani- the sales of the $99 iPhone key- mobile devices. But those phones The company is named after the Islamic mals, pay school fees or daily domestic board were allowed to continue. have been waning in popularity concept of takaful, in which risks are shared needs. Animals hold enormous cultural and The ban could be lifted later in the since Apple Inc. released the first among the community, rather than insur- emotional value and underpin society here. case if Typo Products prevails in its iPhone in 2007, threatening ance where policy holders effectively gam- “People can be made almost crazy when claims that its iPhone keyboard isn’t BlackBerry’s survival. As its losses ble risks against the company. Any surplus they lose animals in the drought, they based on any of BlackBerry’s have mounted, BlackBerry’s market money after payments are made is distrib- would be seen talking to themselves,” said patented designs or technology. value has plummeted from more The Apple iPhone 4s (left) is displayed next to the Samsung Galaxy S uted equally to remaining policy holders. Wajir governor Ahmed Abdullahi.—AFP “This ruling will help prevent than $80 billion in 2008 to less than III at a store in San Francisco. —AP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 HEALTH & SCIENCE Belgian ‘crown’ ready to knock US migraines on the head
BRUSSELS: A small technology company based in device with this design available in the United The United States accounts for 41 percent of the more administrative than cultural: medical multina- southern Belgium is set to take on the giant US mar- States. According to Cefaly Technology’s managing European medical technology export market, with tionals often have their headquarters or production ket with its crowning achievement: an anti-migraine director Pierre Rigaux, while the headband is China a distant second at 10 percent and Japan centres in these countries, and med-tech start-ups headband. already on the European market, the long-awaited third, at seven percent. tend to orbit around them. The product of years of medical and technologi- FDA approval will open the way to a 25-percent The figures show the importance to small com- Europe’s highly decentralised regulatory system cal research, the device is a diadem fitted with elec- boost in sales over the next five years. panies of obtaining FDA approval for those prod- may also play a role, with the myriad national regu- trodes designed to take the edge off migraines The device will hit the US market at a time when ucts which require it. latory bodies creating a more nimble and respon- before they develop into acute blinding pain. medical experts are putting more trust in non-phar- One of the creators of the migraine headband sive landscape than the large federal system in Migraine, a deep headache which develops maceutical responses to migraines. said that international technological developments place in the United States. behind the eyes and can last for days, is estimated Giles Elrington, the medical director of the in the field mean that “the course had been set” for As a result, new technologies can be introduced to stalk to some degree the lives of about one in National Migraine Centre, a British charity research the use of electrical stimulation to treat a number of in Europe years ahead of distribution in the United seven adults around the world, World Health centre, said that techniques targeting the patient’s pathologies, including headaches and insomnia. States, although a shortage of capital to support Organization data shows. head, in contrast to the use of drugs affecting the Before the FDA approval, Cefaly Technology’s research can push European countries to head It appears to be less common in the Far East, but whole body, will be a “huge area of development in short-term prospects in Europe had been reason- across the Atlantic, cap in hand. overall affects up to three times more women than coming years.” able, with 80,000 anti-migraine devices sold before Founded in 2004 by a 58-year-old medical doc- men owing to differences in hormonal activity. 2009, but its turnover was only 3.0 million euros tor and an engineer, Cefaly Technology took its first The band, developed by the Belgian company FDA approval ($4.13 million) for 2013. steps by researching the area of sports medicine, a Cefaly Technology, is worn across the forehead, and Such stories are common in Europe’s medical That has now changed: the small company, field in which electrical stimulation of muscles was sends electric currents to facial nerves. technology industry which is being driven by small based outside the town of Liege and with just 10 nothing new. Although the device is not a cure for severe businesses. employees, expects to sell 10,000 units a month in The challenge for the company was to apply headaches, the manufacturers believe it could stop According to data compiled by MedTech Europe, the US market. those techniques to the external stimulation of the transition from “episodic” migraines to the more an alliance of Europe’s medical technology industry nerves, where electrodes had traditionally been severe “chronic” category. associations, the sector employed more than Non-invasive treatment implanted to be effective-for example, into the The WHO says that migraine is one of the top 20 575,000 people in 2012, and comprised almost Germany is by far Europe’s leading exporter of spinal cord to treat chronic pain. causes of disability in terms of years of healthy life 25,000 medical technology companies in the EU. medical technology, however statistics suggest Rigaux believes that that research was a turning lost. The battery-powered headband, which was “European companies like this one are at the smaller countries Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland and point, because US authorities “immediately saw a given the green-light by the US Food and Drug forefront of innovation,” said MedTech Europe’s chief Switzerland, are punching above their weight. new treatment, which was non-invasive and not Administration (FDA) in March, will be the first executive Serge Bernasconi. The reason for that, according to Bernasconi, is involving drugs, as a positive.” — AFP Japan finds ‘fraudulent’ steps in stem cell paper Simpler way to replace damaged cells
TOKYO: Japan’s top research body yesterday accused the lead writer of stem cell papers hailed as a game-changer in the field of medical biology of misconduct involving fabrication, but the scientist called the findings unacceptable. Two papers published in the scientific journal Nature in January detailed simple ways to repro- gramme mature animal cells back to an embry- onic-like state, allowing them to generate many types of tissues. Such a step would offer hope for a simpler way to replace damaged cells or grow SIDOARJO: A health ministry worker discharges anti-mosquito spray as a preventive new organs in humans. measure to control dengue fever in Sidoarjo, East Java. Experts say Asia and the But reports have since pointed out irregulari- South Pacific, home to 4.3 billion people or 60 percent of all humankind, faces rising ties in data and images used in the papers, risks from climate change that threaten food security, public health and social order, prompting RIKEN, a semi-governmental research in a report given Monday by a United Nations scientific panel meant to guide policy- institute and employer of the lead writer, to set makers and form the foundation for a new climate treaty due next year. — AP up a panel to look into the matter. The panel said, for example, that one of the articles reused images related to lead writer Medical group slams migrant Haruko Obokata’s doctoral dissertation, which was on different experiments. “Actions like this detention conditions completely destroy data credibility,” Shunsuke TOKYO: Masatoshi Takeichi, director of the Riekn Center for Developmental Biology, Riken Ishii, head of the committee, told a news confer- executive director Maki Kawai, Riken institute head, Ryoji Noyori, and Riken executive director ATHENS: Thousands of migrants detained detergent, MSF said. “The consequences on ence. “There is no doubt that she was fully aware Minoru Yonekura bow before their press conference in Tokyo yesterday. — AFP in Greece for lacking the correct paperwork, these people’s health are very serious,” of this danger. We’ve therefore concluded this Obokata became an instant celebrity in Japan briefings, Obokata and other researchers took including some asylum seekers and Kotsioni said. “What we are asking is for this was an act of research misconduct involving fab- after the publication of her papers, with televi- skin and blood cells, let them multiply and then teenagers, are held in often appalling con- generalized, systematic detention to stop, rication.” In a statement, Obokata said she would sion broadcasting images of her wearing a tradi- subjected them to stress “almost to the point of ditions without access to basic hygiene and as well as for an end to the detention of soon file a complaint with RIKEN, challenging tional Japanese apron, rather than a lab coat, death” by exposing them to events such as trau- regular medical care, according to a medical people in inappropriate facilities.” the findings. “I’m filled with shock and indigna- and working in a laboratory with pink-painted ma, low oxygen levels and acidic environments. aid group which accused the Greek state of tion,” she said. “If things stay as they are, misun- walls. RIKEN did not confirm or deny the exis- Within days, the scientists - Japanese causing “unnecessary suffering and harm.” Main entry point derstanding could arise that the discovery of tence of STAP cells, but said it planned to launch researchers joined by others from Brigham and In a report released yesterday, Medecins Greece is one of the main entry points STAP cells itself is forgery. That would be utterly a verification process to see if they were real. Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School Sans Frontieres, or Doctors Without Borders, for migrants trying to gain access into the unacceptable.” That will take about a year to complete and in the United States - said they had found the expressed “grave concerns” and urged European Union. Tens of thousands make will be led by RIKEN President Ryoji Noyori, a cells had not only survived but had also recov- Greece to “put an end to the systematic and the perilous journey each year, either Instant celebrity 2001 Nobel laureate in chemistry. ered by naturally reverting to a state similar to indiscriminate use of detention” for attempting to cross over land from Turkey, Obokata, 30, refers to the reprogrammed “This is truly regrettable,” Noyori said, refer- that of an embryonic stem cell. migrants found in the country without the or heading to Greek islands from the nearby embryonic-like cells in her team’s research by ring to the probe panel’s conclusions. These stem cells were then able to differenti- correct documentation - many often picked Turkish coast, often in rickety boats that the term Stimulus-Triggered Acquisition of “I would like to apologise afresh that articles ate and mature into different types of cells and up during random checks after living in break down or sink. Pluripotency, or STAP, cells. RIKEN may reinvesti- RIKEN researchers published have damaged the tissues, depending on the environments they Greece for years. In mid-2012, the Greek government gate the matter if a complaint is filed. It has not credibility of the scientific community,” he said, were put in, they said. RIKEN said outside Respiratory and skin diseases abound, launched a crackdown on illegal migration, decided what penalty may be imposed on the bowing to reporters as camera flashes went off. researchers had been unable to replicate the exacerbated by unsanitary, crowded condi- nicknamed Operation Xenios Zeus, in which researcher, the research body said. According to the Nature papers and media research. — Reuters tions, the group said, and detainees were tens of thousands of migrants were round- displaying increased mental health prob- ed up from city streets for identity checks. lems including suicide attempts or extreme Those found without residents permits or US health law sign-ups forms of protest such as sewing up their refugee papers were sent to detention cen- mouths. In one center, dozens of migrants ters pending deportation. are locked in cells without access to toilets More than 6,000 people are held in for 22 hours a day, allowed out only for an migrant detention centers pending depor- set to meet target hour in the morning and another in the tation, MSF said. Hundreds, possibly thou- evening, said Ioanna Kotsioni, who handles sands, more are held in police holding cells WASHINGTON: Jammed phone lines and unre- migration issues for MSF. If they need to use where conditions are even worse as liable websites failed to stop a last-minute rush the bathroom during the day, they either detainees have no access to the outdoors, by hundreds of thousands of Americans trying have to attract the attention of a guard to and often have no fresh air or natural light. to sign up for health coverage by the midnight allow them out of their cell, or use a plastic Although the holding cells are not Monday deadline for President Barack Obama’s bottle. Throughout the system, migrant equipped to house people for more than signature domestic policy initiative. detainees lacked access to basic items such two or three days at a time, Kotsioni said Government officials said that they were on as clothing, clean bedding and personal MSF has encountered migrants who have track to sign up more than 7 million Americans hygiene items such as soap, toothpaste and been held for up to 17 months. — AP for health insurance by the deadline. The 7 million target, thought to be out of reach by most experts, was in sight on a day that Morocco steps up guard after saw surging consumer interest as well as vexing computer glitches that slowed sign-ups on the Ebola outbreak in Guinea HealthCare.gov website. Two government officials confirmed the mile- DAKAR: Morocco announced extra health Ebola will undergo medical tests for signs of stone, speaking on condition of anonymity screening measures yesterday at entry points to haemorrhagic fever, the ministry said in a state- because they were not authorized to discuss the the country, in particular at Casablanca airport, ment carried by MAP. It said no cases have been after the outbreak of the deadly Ebola epidemic recorded in Morocco, whose airport in matter ahead of an official announcement. in Guinea. “As a precautionary measure,” the Casablanca has daily links with Conakry, capital About 50 million Americans lacked health health ministry has stepped up “sanitary checks of Guinea. Medical aid organisation Doctors care coverage as the law began taking effect, at entry points ... especially at Casablanca air- Without Borders said Monday that the Ebola and supporters hope it will significantly reduce port,” a key transportation hub for north and outbreak suspected of killing at least 78 people the ranks of the uninsured. west Africa, the official MAP news agency in Guinea since January was an “unprecedented But the administration has not said how reported. epidemic” that had spread across the west many of those who already have signed up Travellers from countries with recorded cases of African nation. —AFP closed the deal by paying their first month’s pre- miums. Also unknown is how many were previ- ously uninsured - the real test of Obama’s health RICHMOND: Applicants wait to be called during a health care enrollment event at the Bay Area care overhaul. In addition, the law expands cov- Rescue Mission Monday in Richmond, California. Whether it’s a chance for a subsidy or to avoid erage for low-income people through Medicaid, a tax penalty, Californians are making a last-minute dash to sign up for health coverage. — AP the government health care program for the revoke or seriously undermine the program, People not signed up for health insurance by the poor, but only about half the states have agreed widely known as “Obamacare.” Those bills have deadline, either through their jobs or on their to implement that option. never made it to the floor in the Democratic- own, were subject to a federal tax penalty - a The months ahead will show whether the controlled Senate. House Speaker John Boehner threat that helped drive the rush. Affordable Care Act will meet its mandate to said Monday that Republican lawmakers remain The federal website operating in 36 states provide affordable health care coverage or committed to repealing Obama’s law. stumbled early - out of service for nearly four whether high deductibles, paperwork snags and Since the initial enrollment period began in hours as technicians patched a software bug. An narrow physician networks make it a bust. October, millions of Americans have signed up afternoon hiccup temporarily kept new appli- The 2010 passage of the Affordable Care Act for health insurance through the state and feder- cants from signing up, and the process slowed has been the No. 1 legislative achievement of al exchanges, with many of the policies heavily further as the day wore on. Overwhelmed by Obama’s presidency. subsidized to make them affordable for lower - computer problems when launched last fall, the and-middle income Americans. system has been working much better in recent Legislative legacy On Monday, supporters of the health care law months, but independent testers say it still runs Eager to deny Obama any kind of legislative fanned out across the country in a final dash to slowly. The administration announced last week legacy, Republicans have bitterly opposed the sign up uninsured Americans. The that people who started applying for health law which they say swells big government and HealthCare.gov website, which was receiving 1.5 insurance but were not able to finish before GUECKEDOU: A doctor in protective gear disinfects patients’ dishes inside the med- represents an unprecedented federal intrusion million visitors a day last week, had recorded Monday’s enrollment deadline will get extra ical humanitarian group Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors without Borders) isola- in the U.S. economy. about 2 million through noon (1600 GMT) time. tion ward in the southern Guinean town of Gueckedou. Aid organisation Doctors After winning control of the House of Monday. At times, more than 125,000 people The law’s supporters are already trying to Without Borders said an Ebola outbreak suspected of killing dozens in Guinea was Representatives in the 2010 elections, were simultaneously using the system, straining make the next open enrollment season, staring an “unprecedented epidemic” as Liberia confirmed its first cases of the deadly conta- Republicans have voted more than 50 times to it beyond its previously estimated capacity. Nov. 15 more consumer friendly. — AP gion. — AFP WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 HEALTH & SCIENCE Climate change responses to shape Asia’s future
YOKOHAMA: Challenges such as extreme “We have no choice but to start mitigating for percent of global emissions of greenhouse gases who is international adaptation coordinator for and deaths due to heat and expand the areas weather, rising seas and worsening scarcity of climate change today,” he said. contributing to global warming, fast melting the World Wildlife Fund. affected by disease-carrying mosquitoes. drinking water are forcing many Asian govern- Asia’s growing economic importance and rap- Himalayan glaciers are triggering floods as over- Assessing the risks for a region with geography ments to confront the changes being wrought by idly urbanizing populations will give it a pivotal burdened dams collapse. “We are not primarily Renewable energy that spans alpine plateaus to rainforests is daunt- a warming planet even as some point to rich role in humanity’s handling of climate change, responsible but we are the victims of climate Even in wealthy, industrialized Japan, changing ing, especially given the lack of research on areas Western nations as major culprits. said Saleemul Huq, director of the International change,” said Sandeep Chamling Rai, a Nepalese climate is expected to double the risks from floods such as central Asia, said Yasuaki Hijioka, a lead Millions of people in the region have already Centre for Climate Change and Development at author of the Asia section of the report. been displaced by floods and droughts thought the Independent University in Bangladesh. Asia has not made as much progress as Europe related to global warming, a United Nations sci- “It’s where the population is, it’s where the and the US in assessing risks, Hijioka said. Western entific panel said in a report meant to guide poli- young population is, it’s where the growth countries can draw up policies based on detailed cymakers and form the foundation for a new cli- dynamism will occur in the next few decades,” research, he said. “In our case, we can only just mate treaty due next year. Experts say Asia and Huq said after the IPCC met in Yokohama to show some case studies.” Yet Asia is not lagging in the South Pacific, home to 4.3 billion people or 60 endorse a summary of a 32-volume report. adapting to the changes already underway, said percent of all humankind, faces rising risks from The climate report outlines in unprecedented Huq of the International Centre for Climate climate change that threaten food security, pub- detail the regional-level threat of conflicts, food Change and Development. Use of renewable lic health and social order. shortages, rising deaths from diseases spread energy already is expanding rapidly as countries Scientists who back the Intergovernmental through contaminated water and mosquito- seek to reduce carbon emissions and to counter Panel on Climate Change say there is overwhelm- borne illnesses such as dengue and malaria. In a the environmental degradation brought on by ing evidence that carbon emissions from industri- region where memories of past famines remain full-steam-ahead industrialization. alization and energy-intensive modern lifestyles fresh, floods and droughts will likely worsen Progress is mixed, and it does not always have driven an increase in the world’s average poverty while pushing food prices and other depend on the wealth of the societies involved. temperature over the past century. Failed global costs higher, the report said. Having shut down all its nuclear reactors for efforts to significantly reduce emissions means “There are so many Asian countries that are checks following the March 2011 disaster in that nations are now focusing efforts on adapting among the most vulnerable. We’ve seen so many Fukushima, Japan has scaled back its targets for to a hotter earth. extreme events hit Asia in recent years,” said Kelly emissions reductions after ramping up use of coal, Levin, a senior associate at the World Resources gas and oil to fire its thermal power plants. Growth dynamism Institute. In Myanmar and Bangladesh, coastal Experts at the climate talks praised Just as colonialism determined much of Asia’s farmlands are tainted by sea water from storm Bangladesh, one of Asia’s poorest nations, for its past, adapting to profound disruptions from cli- surges and rising sea levels, making soil too saline efforts to reduce flooding risks by capturing silt to mate change will determine the region’s future, in key rice producing regions. In their seas, warm- DHAKA: A Bangladeshi woman looks skyward from inside her temporary home, a tent set raise ground levels in its low-lying coastal areas said Rajendra Kuma Pachauri, a co-chairman of ing temperatures and rising acidity are killing off up on the roadside, in Dhaka, as heavy monsoon rains have battered Bangladesh’s capital, and for building sturdy, multi-storied storm shel- the climate panel who has spent the past 26 tropical coral reefs, endangering vital sources of flooding streets and homes, stranding thousands and forcing businesses and schools to ters that are credited with saving many lives from years working on the issue. protein. In Nepal, which accounts for just 0.02 close. — AP surging sea waters during cyclones. —AP MANSOORI
WHAT’S ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 Gulf Bank joins Earth Hour for sixth consecutive year
ulf Bank recently participated in Earth lasting impact beyond the hour. Earth Hour Hour, a global initiative led by the World 2013 broke all records to become the largest GWildlife Fund and celebrated across the movement for the planet in human history, world, with businesses and consumers joining in spanning over 7,000 cities, 154 countries with a the great switch off to raise awareness of climate digital reach of 345 million. change. On Saturday March 29th at 8.30pm, the Gulf Bank is a strong supporter of the Earth Bank not only switched off all unnecessary Hour initiative. The Bank has a policy to use lights, lowered A/C units and turned off all non- energy considerately, and since 2009 it has con- essential electrical devices at the Head Office sistently participated in Earth hour and encour- but also eliminated unnecessary usage of light- aged its staff to turn off any unused systems and ing in the Al-Saleh building. lights to save electricity, whilst ensuring that the Gulf Bank this year took this initiative to safety and integrity of the Bank’s operations and another level by involving its social media reach security systems remain unaffected. to increase the awareness and encourage the Gulf Bank believes strongly in the importance general public to take a stand and participate. of environmental initiatives that have a direct For 3 days the Bank supported Earth hour by impact on the community. The Bank encourages posting awareness messages related to environ- organizations and individuals to take part in mental issues and invited the public to use this these eco-friendly causes, helping to increase opportunity and take action in support of the the level of awareness amongst society. environment, inspire others and make a real, Gulf Bank’s Head Office before & after switching off the lights. AAW supports Kuwait Nephrology Association (KNA) walkathon
ith the support of Dr Ali Al-Obaidi, the Minister of has seen an increase in cases of kidney failure in line with Health and Kuwait’s private sector leaders includ- the increase of obesity. Wing Ali Abdulwahab Al-Mutawa Commercial Co. AAW General Manager of Sports and Fashion, Khalid Al- (AAW) The Athlete’s Foot and Roche, more than 200 com- Mutawa said: “We thank everyone who walked this week in munity members participated in Kuwait Nephrology support of this cause and thank KNA for taking the neces- Association’s (KNA) walkathon this week to help patients in sary steps to help patients in Kuwait. We at AAW will con- Kuwait suffering from kidney disease. tinue to support these causes that make an important and Participants walked from Corniche Club in Sha’ab to positive difference in our community.” Green Island as part of the association’s annual outreach AAW has an on-going commitment in corporate social program to help signify the prevalence of kidney disease responsibility in more than half a dozen fields. In the last 10 across the country and commemorate World Kidney Day. years, AAW has contributed yearly to NGOs similar to Ali Abdulwahab Al-Mutawa Commercial Co. partnered with Hayatt Breast Cancer Foundation and also include Cancer KNA to fully support the walkathon. Awareness Nation (CAN),the Human Rights Watch, and the The prevalence of kidney disease is increasing dramati- Women’s Social and Cultural Society for causes like human cally worldwide, and the cost of treating it poses an enor- rights, helping children with terminal illnesses, and aid to mous burden on individuals and healthcare systems. With Syrian families. diabetes being the primary cause of kidney disease, Kuwait
Holiday Inn participates in The Earth Hour day
ith global warming on the rise, and social responsibility towards the community from 8:30 pm, the hotel management & hope for a cause that grows more urgent thoughts of the the management of the awareness on environmental and the planet in the Earth Hour day. staff turned off all non essential lighting with every passing minute. Holiday Inn Kuwait as they stood together Wpreservation increasing, Holiday Operating at minimum lights and turn- inside their offices reducing the electricity Taking part in the world’s largest global towards working better for the creation of a Inn Kuwait maintained its commitment and ing off the exterior lighting for60 minutes usage during this one hour as symbol of climate change initiative, voiced the brighter future for our planet. ILOA conducts amazing commencement ceremony
he Indian Learners Own Academy (ILOA) conducted comed the gathering. The cultural programme started with the prayer song. The graduation of Upper Kindergarten started in the the commencement ceremony of Upper In his address, Ambassador Sunil Jain complimented As the anchor recited “ thamasom ma jyothir gamaya” the alphabetical order with UKG A coming first followed by TKindergarten students and Open Day of Lower the facilities provided by ILOA. The ambassador expressed light leads us from darkness to light, from ignorance to UKG B,C ,D,E,F,G,H and I respectively. How intimately the Kindergarten ones with pomp and gaiety on the 6th of his delight that Learners Academy celebrates the achieve- knowledge. It was followed by lighting of the lamp. The teachers knew their students, was evident from their March in the school premises. ments of the kindergarten students through graduation welcome dance was a treat to the eyes. speeches. They were able to identify each child’s talents, The Chief Guest to the function was Sunil Jain the programme, which used to happen only for seniors in his The performances by the Lower Kindergarten children achievements and capabilities. Ambassador of India to Kuwait. The function was attended times. He also appreciated the efforts of the students and left the audience spell bound. “The Zam Zam Zambura, The function came to an end with the thanksgiving by prominent persons which included LOA’s CBSE the teachers in preparing the students for cultural shows Let’s Star Jump, Everybody Dance, Hey Baby, It’s a Small song by the UKG children thanking their teachers, parents Correspondent Dr Ashok, a veteran doctor, Dr Poonam, the and marveled the speeches rendered by the small stu- World, Lollipop” were some of them. The children in the and their juniors for making this a memorable event. Chairman of ILOA Sharma, and the sponsor of ILOA dents. He also invited the people from the Indian animal costumes looked cute performing the animal Ebrahim Al-Gurair, the parents of the students and mem- Community to approach the embassy to sort all kinds of dances like “Teddy Bear, Do the Monkey, Down in the jun- bers of the faculty. The Principal, Mrs Asha Sharma wel- problems faced by them. gle, If I were an animal and welcome to the jungle.” WHAT’S ON WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Radisson Blu holds Fun Run
o actively encourage a healthy lifestyle, appeared on all ages and faces. Some walked, Pellaud, General Manager of the Radisson Blu Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait held a Fun Run others ran, and kids were even more vibrant Hotel, Kuwait. Tfor Viking Club members and guests. The than adults, putting in excellent times for the Fun Run was fun for all the family and a great run. The finishing line, outside the hotel, was a Mens: way to start the summer as the weather is warm- place of celebration and joy. Everyone who took Greg Ziembinski, time: 10.09; John Britto - 10.15; ing up. Participants could run or walk as they part put in a great effort, were tired, but happy Cristo Craita - 11.05; headed from Messilah Beach to the Radisson Blu and excited with the achievement of making the Hotel. finish line. Under 14 years old: Before the start the runners joined together After everyone had finished they met at the Winner: Bradley Merg - 10:55; Runner up: Tor and were expertly led through a series of Viking Club to enjoy snacks, beverages and Lambert - 12:45; 3rd place: Jmoyen Lambert - stretches to warm up their muscles. The spirit of good company, having little talks, sharing laugh- 13:30. fun that surrounded the event was evident as ter and a bit of relaxation in the shade . The con- runners encouraged each other and wished testants needed this re-dehydration after they Ladies: each other good luck. Phillpe Pellaud, General had put in such a great performance. The win- Winner: Helen Searle -14:38; Runner up: Reem Manager of the Radisson Blu was there with a ners of the Fun Run were classified in 3 cate- Ahmed - 15:09; 3rd place: Rasha Mohtaseb - number of the Radisson Blu team who joined in, gories, under 14 , ladies and men .They were 15:43. Everyone is looking forward to the next running with the members and guests. Waiting rewarded with gifts and medals presented by ‘Fun Run’! behind the starting line, the excitement Ivan Tzenkov - Recreation Director and Phillipe Announcements Soorya India Festival on April 10 oorya Kuwait Chapter will present ‘Soorya India Festival 2014’ at 7 pm on April 10 at Sthe Indian Community School Auditorium, Senior, Salmiya. This time, Soorya is coming up with a mix of three oldest dance forms of India - a Bharatanatyam recital by well-known danseuse Dakshina Vaidyanathan, a Mohiniyattam recital by exponent Aiswarya Warrier and an Odissi performance by leading Odissi dancers Arupa Gayatri Panda and Pravat Kumar Swain. In addition, a solo fusion by Mridangam maestro Kuzhalmannam Ramakrishnan will also be presented. Indian Ambassador Sunil Jain will inaugurate the festi- val that aims to promote international integra- tion through culture. Entry is free. ‘Sahhtna’ website and smart phone app participated in the ‘Medical 4 Beauty’ exhibition that was inaugurated recently by Dr Jamal Al-Harbi, the Assistant Undersecretary for Technical Affairs at the Ministry of Health, at the Al-Raya Ballroom in Courtyard Marriot Hotel. KSNA Ad-Hoc committee Al Nibras organizes bazaar for d-Hoc committee of the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi’s (KSNA) AKuwait Chapter will be reconstituted at a Kuwait Cancer Control Center meeting at 4 pm on Thursday, April 10 at Indian Community School (Senior), Salmiya which will be presided over by KSNA Chairman Soorya Krishnamoothy. Malayali associations in Kuwait are requested to depute one or two representa- tives of their associations to participate in the meeting. IOC Arts Festival ndian Overseas Congress (IOC) will conduct Arts Festival 2014 on April 10, 11, 2014 at the IUnited Indian School, Abbassiya. Preparations are on to host this mega event among the Indian expatriates in Kuwait. Entry forms are also available on request through email. Entry forms can be sent to fax no. 24331461. Filled entry forms can be emailed to: [email protected]. Also, the final registra- tion date has been extended till Saturday, 5 April 2014. All Indian children are invited to par- ticipate in the various competitions to be held on April 10, 11, 2014 at the United Indian School, Abbassiya.
Super hit play n a social contribution embodies the participation and - games for students - talent Show - bands performances.... media institutions involved in the event. citizenship values and the role of social and educational and many others) were allocated to cancer patients at The Bazaar idea comes to reflect the school’s vision in ankaar Arts super play will be staged after Iinstitutions in interacting with the country’s issues and Kuwait Cancer Control Center. providing a supportive environment for the educational 5 years by public demand’ìBiwi Jawaan needs, Al Nibras Schools 3rd Bazaar was inaugurated on The bazaar was inaugurated by Fahd Sami Aman Al qualifying process where the student is considered the Miya Pareshan ‘on April 19, Saturday from 6 Friday, March 21, 2014. Nibras Schools’ representative and Sheikha Sheikha Al- center of the educational process and an active and posi- F Proceeds of the event (artifacts and handicrafts - appar- Abdullah Al-Khalifa Al-Sabah, the chairperson of Kuwaiti tive in his community. The event was sponsored by -9 pm at the Indian Embassy. el and accessories international cuisine - henna inscription Sports Club for the Disabled amid a huge audience and Western Union and Al-Muzaini Exchange.
Kids fashion promotion at Lu&Lu Hypermarket. TV PROGRAMS WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
11:00 BBC World 13:00 How Tech Works 12:00 BBC World 13:30 Sci-Trek 13:00 BBC World 14:20 Mythbusters A soulful Robert 14:00 BBC World 15:10 Scrapheap Challenge 03:15 From Pound Pups To Dog 15:00 BBC World 16:00 Mega World Cray tunes in to the Stars 16:00 BBC World 16:50 What’s That About? 03:40 From Pound Pups To Dog 17:00 BBC World 17:40 Kings Of Construction sounds of his youth Stars 18:00 BBC World 18:30 Mega Builders 04:05 My Pet’s Gone Viral 19:00 BBC World 19:20 The Gadget Show 04:30 My Pet’s Gone Viral 20:00 BBC World 19:45 How Tech Works eteran blues guitarist and singer Robert Cray has 04:55 Animal Cops Philadelphia 21:00 BBC World 20:10 Mythbusters set off on a new US and European tour with an 05:45 Animal Maternity Ward 22:00 BBC World 21:00 Stuck With Hackett album harking back to the early days of soul 23:00 BBC World V 06:35 Call Of The Wildman 21:25 Stuck With Hackett music, the kind that filled his ears as a youngster. “In My 07:25 Earthquake: Panda Rescue 21:50 Rocket City Rednecks Soul” - a title that sums up what is to come - is imbued 08:15 Mutant Planet 22:15 Rocket City Rednecks with mellifluous rhythm and blues redolent of the kind 09:10 From Pound Pups To Dog 22:40 Sci-Trek of tunes that came from the Chess and Stax record 23:30 Space Pioneer Stars labels in the 1950s, ‘60s and early ‘70s. “I grew up listen- 09:35 From Pound Pups To Dog Stars ing to this kind of music at home. It’s in my blood,” Cray, 03:30 The Killer Speaks 10:05 Shamwari: A Wild Life 60, told Reuters before setting off on a tour encompass- 04:30 Private Crimes 10:35 Shamwari: A Wild Life ing the US East Coast, South and Southwest then 05:00 Beyond Scared Straight 11:00 Animal Precinct Britain, France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. 06:00 The Devil You Know 11:55 Dark Days In Monkey City 07:00 Private Crimes 03:00 Couples Who Kill It is old-style bluesy crooning with an edge, epito- 12:20 Steve Irwin’s Wildlife Warriors 07:30 Private Crimes 03:45 Nightmare Next Door mized on the new album by the song “Hold On” in 12:50 From Pound Pups To Dog 08:00 Private Crimes 04:30 Murder Shift which a stressed-out man travels home to the woman Stars 08:30 Private Crimes 05:20 Forensic Detectives he loves, the only part of his life that keeps him sane 13:15 From Pound Pups To Dog 09:00 Private Crimes 06:10 Disappeared when the world closes in. The song, Cray notes in pub- Stars 09:30 Private Crimes 07:00 I Was Murdered 13:45 Man, Cheetah, Wild licity material, was deliberately produced as a “70s Philly 10:00 Fatal Vows 07:25 Stalked: Someone’s Watching 14:40 Shamwari: A Wild Life kind of thing” - basically richly produced soul of the kind 11:00 Beyond Scared Straight 07:50 Dr G: Medical Examiner 15:05 Shamwari: A Wild Life that came from Philadelphia. 12:00 Evil Up Close 08:40 Disappeared 15:30 My Cat From Hell Other songs on “In My Soul” include covers of 1960s 13:00 My Evil Sister 09:30 True Crime With Aphrodite 16:30 The Animals’ Guide To 14:00 Fatal Vows Jones Stax/Volt artist Otis Redding and Chess’s Bobby “Blue” Survival 15:00 Fred Dinenage: Murder 10:20 Murder Shift Bland. The instrumental “Hip Type Onions” is a tribute to 17:25 Crocodile Hunter Casebook 11:10 Forensic Detectives Stax’s Booker T & the MGs. Cray says producing such an 18:20 Predator’s Prey 16:00 Curious & Unusual Deaths 12:00 Disappeared album was not deliberate, it just happened. “This is a 18:50 Predator’s Prey 16:30 Private Crimes 12:50 I Was Murdered departure, (but) the way we record comes together by 19:15 Animal Clinic 17:00 Homicide Hunter 13:15 Stalked: Someone’s Watching 20:10 Animal Maternity Ward osmosis,” he said. It also does not mean that the current 18:00 The First 48 13:40 Dr G: Medical Examiner 21:05 Shamwari: A Wild Life tour will be taken over by the “In My Soul” sound. 19:00 The Devil You Know 14:30 Disappeared 21:35 Shamwari: A Wild Life “Having the record just expands our book,” Cray said. 20:00 Beyond Scared Straight 15:20 True Crime With Aphrodite 22:00 Animal Clinic Some of the songs will be added to the tour’s set but 21:00 Private Crimes Jones 22:55 Animal Maternity Ward 21:30 Evil Up Close 16:10 Murder Shift that the band will not just play from the album. 23:50 Animal Cops Philadelphia 22:30 I Killed My BFF 17:00 Forensic Detectives 23:30 Casanova Killers 17:50 Extreme Forensics Guitar 18:40 I Was Murdered Whatever it plays, there will be guitar. Cray, a five- 19:05 Stalked: Someone’s Watching time Grammy-winner and Blues Hall of Fame inductee, 19:30 Dr G: Medical Examiner is even better known for his playing than his singing, 20:20 Disappeared 03:25 Spooks 21:10 True Crime With Aphrodite having worked with the likes of Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray 04:15 The Weakest Link Jones Vaughn and John Lee Hooker. This latest soul offering is peppered with what Rolling Stone magazine has called 05:00 Tweenies 03:00 You Have Been Warned 22:00 Dates From Hell 05:20 Teletubbies 03:50 Border Security 22:25 Dates From Hell “razor sharp” guitar work, sometimes stalking the back- 05:45 Jollywobbles 04:15 Storage Hunters 22:50 Swamp Murders ground, other times dominating out front - all the time 05:55 Show Me Show Me 04:40 Container Wars 23:40 Most Evil at the crossroads of blues and soul. 06:15 Tweenies 05:05 How Do They Do It? Turbo It is perhaps a little ironic, given this, that one of 06:35 Teletubbies Specials Cray’s unexpected claims to fame was on bass, rather 07:00 Jollywobbles 06:00 One Man Army than lead, with the fictional Otis Day & The Knights in 07:10 Show Me Show Me PARANORMAN ON OSN MOVIES COMEDY HD 07:00 You Have Been Warned the cult film “Animal House”. But his six-string work is 07:30 My Family: The Heart Of 07:50 Flying Wild Alaska Christmas what matters, and what persuaded guitar maker Fender 08:40 Fast N’ Loud 03:15 Extreme Close-Up 08:00 Warrior Road Trip 12:30 Coronation Street 05:00 Switchback-PG15 08:00 The Vicar Of Dibley back in 1989 to create a customized Robert Cray 09:30 Border Security 03:40 Extreme Close-Up 09:00 Chasing UFOs 14:00 Necessary Roughness 07:00 Encounter With Danger- 08:30 Rev. Stratocaster for him and for general sale. It took around 09:55 Storage Hunters 04:10 E!ES 10:00 Brain Games 16:00 Emmerdale PG15 09:00 Eastenders a year and a half to get the pick up just right on the 10:20 Container Wars 05:05 THS 10:30 Diggers 16:30 Coronation Street 09:00 Regarding Henry-PG15 09:30 Doctors 10:45 How Do They Do It? Turbo 06:00 THS 11:00 Megastructures 19:00 Once Upon A Time In 11:00 Bobby Fischer Against The Strat, Cray said, adding that he does not know how 10:00 Upstairs Downstairs Specials 07:50 Style Star 12:00 Big, Bigger, Biggest Wonderland World-PG15 many have been sold but that he keeps being asked to 10:55 New Tricks 11:35 Gold Rush 08:20 E! News 13:00 Animal Intervention 20:00 Grey’s Anatomy 13:00 Falling In Love-PG15 sign them at shows. — Reuters 11:45 My Family: The Heart Of 12:25 Alaska Gold Diggers 09:15 Opening Act 14:00 Helicopter Wars 21:00 Mistresses 15:00 Hide Away-PG15 Christmas 13:15 Gold Divers 10:15 Married To Jonas 15:00 My Dog Ate What? 22:00 True Detective 17:00 The Presidio-PG15 12:15 The Vicar Of Dibley 14:05 Border Security 10:40 Chasing The Saturdays 16:00 China’s Great Wall 23:00 Breaking Bad 19:00 The Lucky One-PG15 12:45 Rev. 14:30 Storage Hunters 11:10 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 17:00 Bite Me With Dr. Mike Leahy 21:00 Deadly Spa-PG15 13:15 Eastenders 14:55 Container Wars 11:35 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 18:00 Hunter Hunted 23:00 Extremities-18 13:45 Doctors 15:20 North America 12:05 E! News 19:00 Air Crash Investigation 14:10 Upstairs Downstairs 16:10 Fast N’ Loud 13:05 Extreme Close-Up 20:00 Ultimate Survival Alaska 15:05 New Tricks 17:00 Ultimate Survival 13:35 The E! True Hollywood Story 21:00 Engineering Connections 15:55 The Vicar Of Dibley 17:50 Wheeler Dealers 14:30 Style Star 22:00 Air Crash Investigation 01:00 Good Morning America 16:25 The Weakest Link 18:40 You Have Been Warned 15:00 Keeping Up With The 23:00 Big, Bigger, Biggest 04:00 Rescue Me 17:10 Eastenders 19:30 One Man Army 05:00 Good Morning America Kardashians 04:00 3 Holiday Tails-PG 17:40 Doctors 20:20 How Do They Do It? Turbo 07:30 Coronation Street 16:00 Keeping Up With The 06:00 The Wishing Well-PG15 18:10 Being Erica Specials 12:00 Royal Pains Kardashians 08:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & 19:00 Last Of The Summer Wine 21:10 Storage Hunters 14:00 Live Good Morning America 17:00 Eric And Jessie: Game On Chrome-PG15 19:30 Me & Mrs Jones 21:35 Game Of Pawns 17:00 Royal Pains 17:30 Eric And Jessie: Game On 10:00 The Arrangement-PG15 20:00 Upstairs Downstairs 22:00 Dual Survival 19:00 24 18:00 The Drama Queen 12:00 Red Dawn-PG15 20:55 Mistresses 22:50 Bear Grylls: Escape From Hell 03:45 Python Hunters 20:00 Royal Pains 19:00 E!ES 14:00 Interview With A Hitman- 21:45 The Omid Djalili Show 23:40 Yukon Men 20:00 #RichKids Of Beverly Hills 04:40 Bug Attack 21:00 Zero Hour 22:15 Five Daughters 05:35 Shark Men 22:00 Rescue Me PG15 20:30 Giuliana & Bill 16:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & 23:05 The Weakest Link 21:30 Giuliana & Bill 06:30 Fish Tank Kings 23:00 Hemlock Grove 23:50 Eastenders 07:25 Python Hunters Chrome-PG15 22:30 Fashion Police 17:45 Fast & Furious 6-PG15 23:30 Chelsea Lately 08:20 Expedition Wild 09:15 Caught In The Act GPU 20:00 Prometheus-PG15 22:15 21 & Over-18 03:35 Sci-Trek Reversions Disney’s ‘Frozen’ 10:10 Leopard Queen 04:30 Space Pioneer 00:00 Beverly Hills Cop-18 05:20 Scrapheap Challenge 11:05 Night Stalkers 12:00 Hooked 02:00 Layer Cake-18 06:10 What’s That About? 04:00 Arctic Blast-PG15 03:00 BBC World 12:55 World’s Deadliest Killer Three 03:00 Super Rugby 07:00 Space Voyages 06:00 Soldiers Of Fortune-PG15 becomes top-grossing 04:00 BBC World 07:55 Joe Rogan Questions 13:50 Animal Intervention 05:00 NRL Premiership 03:00 Megastructures 08:00 Nick Of Time-PG15 05:00 BBC World Everything 14:45 Python Hunters 07:00 HSBC Sevens World Series 04:00 Light At The Edge of The 10:00 Deep Rising-PG15 06:00 BBC World 08:45 Sci-Trek 15:40 Expedition Wild 10:00 PGA Tour Highlights World 12:00 Alien Tornado-PG15 07:00 BBC World 09:40 What’s That About? 16:35 Dangerous Encounters 11:00 Golfing World 05:00 The Numbers Game 17:30 Man v. Monster 14:00 Nick Of Time-PG15 animated film ever 08:00 BBC World 12:00 AFL Premiership 10:30 Mega World 16:00 Dragonheart-PG 09:00 BBC World 06:00 Megastructures 18:25 Built For The Kill 13:00 Super Rugby 11:20 Space Pioneer 18:00 Alien Tornado-PG15 10:00 BBC World 07:00 Megacities 19:20 World’s Deadliest Killer Three 15:00 Super Rugby isney’s hit film “Frozen” has become the 12:10 Scrapheap Challenge 20:00 Starship Troopers: Invasion-18 20:10 Animal Intervention 17:00 PGA Tour Highlights top-grossing animated film in box office 22:00 Billy Bathgate-18 21:00 Python Hunters 18:00 Golfing World history, the studio said on Sunday as the 21:50 Expedition Wild D 19:00 AFL Premiership musical topped $1 billion in global sales. The film 22:40 Dangerous Encounters 20:00 NRL Full Time has sold $398.4 million worth of tickets at domes- 23:30 Man v. Monster 20:30 Futbol Mundial 00:00 Flypaper-PG15 21:00 NRL Premiership tic (US and Canadian) theaters since opening on 02:00 A Smile Like Yours-PG15 23:00 Premier League Darts Nov. 27 on the eve of the Thanksgiving Holiday 04:00 The Naked Gun: From The weekend. Foreign box offices have added another Files Of Police Squad-PG $674 million, for a global total of $1.072 billion, 06:00 Summer School-PG15 Disney said. 08:00 Snowmen-PG 03:00 How I Met Your Mother 03:00 AFL Premiership Highlights “Frozen,” inspired by “The Snow Queen” fairy- 10:00 Paranorman-PG 03:30 How I Met Your Mother 04:00 Indy Car Serier 2014 12:00 The Naked Gun: From The tale, is the story of a Scandinavian princess who 04:00 All Of Us 07:00 Golfing World must reconnect with her sister, the Queen, who 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring Files Of Police Squad-PG 08:00 Premier League Darts Jimmy Fallon 14:00 Three Men And A Little Lady- 11:30 Top 14 Highlights has the power of freezing anything into ice with 05:30 Better Off Ted PG 12:00 NRL Premiership her hands and accidentally sets off a long winter 06:00 The War At Home 16:00 Paranorman-PG 14:00 PGA Tour Highlights that is destroying their kingdom. The previous 06:30 Arrested Development 18:00 Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell Of 15:00 Indy Car Serier 2014 animated-film box office champion was 2010’s 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers Fear-PG15 18:00 NHL “Toy Story 3,” which racked up $1.063 billion in 08:00 All Of Us 20:00 Bellator MMA 2014 08:30 Better Off Ted 22:00 Super Rugby sales, according to Boxofficemojo.com. Both films 09:00 How I Met Your Mother were distributed by Walt Disney Pictures. “Frozen,” 09:30 2 Broke Girls which stayed in the top 10 films on domestic box 10:00 Trophy Wife office charts for more than three months, also has 10:30 Arrested Development 01:00 Comes A Bright Day-PG15 now become the 10th-largest grossing film in cin- 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 03:00 The Speed Of Thought-PG15 Jimmy Fallon 05:00 Me And You-PG15 ema history. — Reuters 12:00 The War At Home 07:00 Snow Flower And The Secret 12:30 All Of Us Fan-PG15 00:35 House Gift 13:00 Better Off Ted 09:00 The Speed Of Thought-PG15 01:30 Emmerdale 13:30 Arrested Development 10:30 Me And You-PG15 02:25 Coronation Street 14:00 How I Met Your Mother 12:15 The Wild Hunt-PG15 14:30 2 Broke Girls 02:55 Holiday: Heaven On Earth 14:00 The Flowers Of War-PG15 15:00 Trophy Wife 03:25 Agatha Christie’s Marple 15:30 The Daily Show Global 16:30 The Host-PG15 18:45 Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy-PG15 05:15 Ade In Britain Edition 06:10 House Gift 16:00 The Colbert Report Global 21:00 Being Flynn-18 Edition 22:45 Blue Like Jazz-PG15 07:05 Holiday: Heaven On Earth 16:30 The War At Home 07:30 Agatha Christie’s Marple 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 09:20 Ade In Britain 18:00 The Simpsons 10:15 May The Best House Win 18:30 Raising Hope 11:10 Emmerdale 19:00 The Crazy Ones 12:00 Coronation Street 19:30 Trophy Wife 03:00 Things We Lost In The Fire- 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring PG15 12:30 House Gift Jimmy Fallon 05:00 96 Minutes-PG15 13:25 Ade In Britain 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 07:00 Flower Girl-PG15 14:20 May The Best House Win Stewart 09:00 Hold Fast-PG15 15:10 Holiday: Heaven On Earth 21:30 The Colbert Report 11:00 Saving Grace B. Jones-PG15 15:35 Trevor Mcdonalds Queen & 22:00 The Big C 13:00 Encounter With Danger-PG15 Country 22:30 Web Therapy 15:00 Regarding Henry-PG15 23:00 Legit 17:00 Saving Grace B. Jones-PG15 16:30 Endeavour 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 19:00 Switchback-PG15 18:20 May The Best House Win 21:00 Rachel Getting Married-PG15 19:10 Coronation Street 23:15 True Confessions-PG15 19:35 Trevor Mcdonalds Queen & Country 03:00 Game Of Thrones 04:00 Revenge 20:30 Endeavour 08:00 Necessary Roughness 22:20 Coronation Street 11:00 The Blacklist 01:15 Caught Inside-PG15 22:50 Emmerdale ARCTIC BLAST ON OSN MOVIES HD ACTION 12:00 Emmerdale 03:00 Rachel Getting Married-PG15 23:45 May The Best House Win Classifieds
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Kuwait KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (27/03/2014 TO 02/04/2014) NOTICE March 24, 2014 SHARQIA-1 FANAR-5 DIVERGENT (DIG) 5:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:45 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 1:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 2:45 PM HAUNT (DIG) 4:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 10:30 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 4:45 PM THE DOUBLE (DIG) 6:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 1:15 AM Mr. Manoj Ramnaresh Saroj son of Mr. Ramnaresh Saroj, SABOTAGE (DIG) 7:45 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 8:00 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: DIVERGENT (DIG) 9:45 PM NO WED THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 8:00 PM Indian national, resident of H.No. 99, 2 Patrong Wadda, SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:30 AM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 10:30 PM WED Vasco Da Gama, Mormugao, Goa and Miss Marilyn Neri NO WED CAPTAIN AMERICA: Cercado daughter of Mr. Joel Sumagaysay Cercado, SHARQIA-2 BLOOD TIES (DIG) 12:45 AM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 10:45 PM MINUSCULE: VALLEY NO SUN+TUE+WED Philippines national, resident of PPK2, Kipalzli San Isidro OF THE LOST ANTS (DIG) 12:30 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: 360º- 1 Davao Del Norte, Philippines, both presently residing in NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 2:30 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 8:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 2:00 PM Kuwait, have given notice of intended marriage between 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG-3D) 5:00 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: DIVERGENT (DIG) 5:00 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 7:00 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 10:45 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 8:00 PM them under the Foreign Marriage Act, 1969. If anyone has NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 9:30 PM NO WED any objection to the proposed marriage, he/she may file CAPTAIN AMERICA: MARINA-1 DIVERGENT (DIG) 11:00 PM the same with the undersigned according to the procedure THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG-3D) 9:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:30 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 12:05 AM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 2:45 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: laid down under the Act/Rule within thirty days from the NON-STOP (DIG) 5:00 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 8:00 PM date of publication of this notice. SHARQIA-3 BLOOD TIES (DIG) 7:15 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: NON-STOP (DIG) 1:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 9:30 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 10:45 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 11:45 PM (S.K. Dudeja) Second Secretary BLOOD TIES (DIG) 3:45 PM Embassy of India, Kuwait. NO SUN+TUE+WED ;gfkmdYj!Yf\EYjjaY_]G^Ú[]j NON-STOP (DIG) 6:00 PM 360º- 2 P.O.Box 1450-Safat-13015 Kuwait. BLOOD TIES (DIG) 8:15 PM MARINA-2 FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 1:00 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 10:30 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:45 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 3:15 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:45 AM DIVERGENT (DIG) 2:45 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 5:30 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 7:45 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 5:45 PM FOR SALE CHANGE OF NAME MUHALAB-1 DIVERGENT (DIG) 7:45 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 10:00 PM 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 12:30 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 10:30 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 12:15 AM NON-STOP (DIG) 2:30 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: Mitsubishi Lancer 2012 - I, Sudheer Thopugunta BLOOD TIES (DIG) 4:45 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 10:30 PM 360º- 3 GLX, dark grey color, excel- holder of Indian Passport NON-STOP (DIG) 7:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 12:30 AM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 2:15 PM lent condition, km 62,000, No. K7916639 converted to BLOOD TIES (DIG) 9:30 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED BLOOD TIES (DIG) 4:30 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: BLOOD TIES (DIG) 6:45 PM KD 1950. Mob: 50994848. Islam do hereby change my (C 4681) THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 9:30 PM MARINA-3 BLOOD TIES (DIG) 9:00 PM name to Ali Haider Shaik NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 12:30 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 11:15 PM address in India N.T.R. MUHALAB-2 NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 3:00 PM AL-KOUT.1 Chever Tril Plazer 2008 - Nagar K. Kandulavari Palli NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 2:00 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 5:30 PM 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 12:30 PM black color, excellent con- (vi) Chitvel (MI) Kadapa Dist, NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 4:30 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 7:30 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 2:30 PM dition, KD 2200. Tel: AP. (C 4683) LEGEND (DIG) (Telugu) 4:30 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 10:00 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 5:00 PM 66729295. (C 4682) 2-4-2014 LAMO AKHZA (DIG) (Arabic) 7:45 PM CAPTAIN AMERICA: 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 7:30 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 9:45 PM THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG-3D) 10:00 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 9:30 PM 1-4-2014 NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 12:45 AM CAPTAIN AMERICA: MUHALAB-3 THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG) 9:30 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:30 PM AVENUES-1 NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 12:05 AM SITUATION VACANT DIVERGENT (DIG) 2:30 PM MINUSCULE: No: 16123 SABOTAGE (DIG) 5:15 PM VALLEY OF THE LOST ANTS (DIG) 2:00 PM AL-KOUT.2 DIVERGENT (DIG) 7:15 PM 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 4:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 2:00 PM An experienced person SABOTAGE (DIG) 10:00 PM LEGEND (DIG) (Telugu) 4:00 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 4:45 PM seeks an opening in 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 7:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 7:00 PM accounts/stores. Call FANAR-1 LEGEND (DIG) (Telugu) 7:00 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 9:45 PM 97835420. (C 468) NON-STOP (DIG) 1:30 PM LEGEND (DIG) (Telugu) 10:00 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 11:45 PM 31-3-2014 MR. PEABODY & SHERMAN (DIG) 4:00 PM 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 1:00 AM NON-STOP (DIG) 6:00 PM AL-KOUT.3 Lady Indian physiothera- FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 8:15 PM AVENUES-2 NON-STOP (DIG) 1:45 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 10:15 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 2:15 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 4:00 PM pist B.PT, M.Sc (UK) 4 years NON-STOP (DIG) 12:15 AM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 4:30 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 6:15 PM experience, transferable FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 6:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM visa, ready to join. Please FANAR-3 FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 9:00 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 10:30 PM call 99651572. (C 4677) SABOTAGE (DIG) 1:00 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 11:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:30 AM 27-3-2014 SABOTAGE (DIG) 3:00 PM FACTORY GIRL (DIG) (Arabic) 1:15 AM DIVERGENT (DIG) 5:00 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED AL-KOUT.4 SABOTAGE (DIG) 7:45 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 1:00 PM AVENUES-3 DIVERGENT (DIG) 9:45 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 3:30 PM ACCOMMODATION NON-STOP (DIG) 1:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 12:30 AM HAUNT (DIG) 5:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 3:30 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 7:45 PM 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 5:45 PM Accommodation available FANAR-4 NON-STOP (DIG) 8:00 PM BLOOD TIES (DIG) 10:00 PM in Kuwait city (Maliya) bed NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 2:15 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 10:15 PM HAUNT (DIG) 12:15 AM space/sharing room avail- 300: RISE OF AN EMPIRE (DIG) 4:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:30 AM able for decent Goan bach- NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 6:45 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED BAIRAQ-1 NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 9:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 1:15 PM elor from 1st April with 24835616/7 ,24833199 CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER (DIG- AVENUES-4 NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 3:15 PM kitchen facility. Contact: 3D) 9:15 PM DIVERGENT (DIG) 2:15 PM SABOTAGE (DIG) 5:45 PM 50195621. NEED FOR SPEED (DIG) 11:45 PM NEED FOR SPEED (DIG-3D) 7:45 PM 31-3-2014
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Arrival Flights on Wednesday 2/4/2014 KAC 538 Sharm el-Sheikh/Sohag 16:05 Departure Flights on Wednesday 2/4/2014 GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 Airlines Flt Route Time UAE 857 Dubai 16:40 Airlines Flt Route Time KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 JAI 574 Mumbai 00:10 QTR 1072 Doha 16:40 UAL 981 IAD 00:05 KNE 462 Madinah 15:45 AIC 982 Ahmedabad/Hyderabad/Chennai 00:05 JZR 539 Cairo 00:40 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:50 KNE 460 Riyadh 15:55 JAI 573 Mumbai 01:10 THY 772 Istanbul 00:45 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 KAC 538 Sharm el-Sheikh/Sohag 16:05 DLH 637 Frankfurt 02:10 QTR 1084 Doha 00:55 JZR 787 Riyadh 17:00 UAE 857 Dubai 16:40 ETH 621 Addis Ababa 02:45 DLH 637 Dammam 01:10 QTR 1072 Doha 16:40 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 THY 773 Istanbul 02:55 PGT 858 Istanbul 01:30 ETD 303 Abu Dhabi 16:50 ABY 127 Sharjah 17:25 PGT 859 Istanbul 03:20 RJA 640 Amman 16:55 ETH 620 Addis Ababa 01:45 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 UAE 854 Dubai 03:50 JZR 787 Riyadh 17:00 GFA 211 Bahrain 02:10 JZR 357 Mashhad 17:55 ETD 306 Abu Dhabi 04:00 SVA 510 Riyadh 17:15 THY 764 Istanbul 02:15 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 OMA 644 Muscat 04:05 ABY 127 Sharjah 17:25 UAE 853 Dubai 02:35 KAC 542 Cairo 18:05 MSR 613 Cairo 04:10 GFA 215 Bahrain 17:30 ETD 305 Abu Dhabi 02:45 QTR 1085 Doha 04:15 RBG 553 Alexandria 18:15 JZR 357 Mashhad 17:55 JAI 576 Kochi/Abu Dhabi 02:50 FDB 068 Dubai 04:40 JZR 777 Jeddah 17:55 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 OMA 643 Muscat 03:05 QTR 1077 Doha 05:15 KAC 542 Cairo 18:05 QTR 1080 Doha 18:40 MSR 612 Cairo 03:10 JZR 560 Sohag 06:20 RBG 553 Alexandria 18:15 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:45 QTR 1076 Doha 03:45 FDB 070 Dubai 06:30 JZR 177 Dubai 18:20 KAC 362 Colombo 08:45 FDB 063 Dubai 18:45 JAI 575 Abu Dhabi/Kochi 06:45 QTR 1080 Doha 18:40 JZR 164 Dubai 06:55 KAC 284 Dhaka 08:50 KAC 618 Doha 19:00 KAC 786 Jeddah 18:45 THY 765 Istanbul 07:05 ABY 125 Sharjah 09:00 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:10 FDB 063 Dubai 18:45 GFA 212 Bahrain 07:15 KAC 618 Doha 19:00 IRM 1186 Tehran 09:15 KAC 674 Dubai 19:25 THY 771 Istanbul 07:30 KAC 166 Paris/Rome 19:10 ETD 301 Abu Dhabi 09:20 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:30 KAC 537 Sharm el-Sheikh/Sohag 08:10 KAC 674 Dubai 19:25 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 FDB 055 Dubai 09:40 FDB 054 Dubai 08:30 KAC 774 Riyadh 19:30 QTR 1070 Doha 09:55 KAC 102 New York/London 19:35 BAW 156 London 08:45 GFA 217 Bahrain 19:30 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 OMA 647 Muscat 19:55 QTR 1087 Doha 08:50 KAC 102 New York/Heathrow, London 19:35 IRA 603 Shiraz 10:45 MSC 405 Sohag 20:05 KAC 787 Jeddah 09:25 OMA 647 Muscat 19:55 IAW 157 Al Najaf/Baghdad 11:00 FDB 061 Dubai 20:05 KAC 671 Dubai 09:30 MSC 405 Sohag 20:05 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:10 ABY 126 Sharjah 09:40 FDB 061 Dubai 20:05 KAC 789 Madinah 09:45 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 ABY 129 Sharjah 20:20 JAI 572 Mumbai 20:10 UAE 856 Dubai 09:55 ABY 129 Sharjah 20:20 TMA 213 Beirut 12:10 ETD 919 Abu Dhabi 20:25 GFA 213 Bahrain 10:40 MSC 403 Asyut 12:20 ETD 919 Abu Dhabi 20:25 AXB 489 Kochi/Mangalore 20:35 IRA 603 Shiraz 10:45 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 AXB 489 Kochi/Mangalore 20:35 MSR 606 Luxor 20:45 IAW 157 Al Najaf/Baghdad 11:00 MSR 606 Luxor 20:45 JZR 561 Sohag 12:55 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:55 JZR 165 Dubai 11:30 DLH 634 Frankfurt 20:55 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 MEA 404 Beirut 11:55 ALK 229 Colombo 21:10 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:15 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 TMA 213 Beirut 12:10 MEA 402 Beirut 21:20 IYE 826 Sanaa/Mukalla 13:30 KAC 1782 Madinah 21:30 MSC 403 Asyut 12:20 KAC 1782 Madinah 21:30 KAC 522 Al Najaf 13:45 UAE 871 Dubai 12:50 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:35 ETD 307 Abu Dhabi 21:35 FDB 057 Dubai 13:50 JZR 561 Sohag 12:55 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 UAE 859 Dubai 21:40 QTR 1078 Doha 13:55 MSR 610 Cairo 13:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 KAC 672 Dubai 14:00 GFA 219 Bahrain 21:45 CLX 792 Luxembourg 13:15 KNE 480 Taif 21:45 MSR 575 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:15 KNE 480 Taif 21:45 IYE 826 Sanaa/Mukalla 13:30 FDB 059 Dubai 22:00 KAC 790 Madinah 14:25 FDB 059 Dubai 22:00 KAC 522 Al Najaf 13:45 QTR 1074 Doha 22:00 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 QTR 1074 Doha 22:00 FDB 057 Dubai 13:50 JZR 135 Bahrain 22:05 QTR 1078 Doha 13:55 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:35 JZR 135 Bahrain 22:05 JZR 481 Istanbul 22:15 KAC 672 Dubai 14:00 GFA 221 Bahrain 15:00 JZR 481 Istanbul 22:15 JZR 554 Alexandria 23:05 MSR 575 Sharm el-Sheikh 14:15 QTR 1075 Doha 23:10 KAC 788 Jeddah 15:10 JZR 239 Amman 22:20 KAC 790 Madinah 14:25 JZR 502 Luxor 23:30 KNE 462 Madinah 15:45 AIC 975 Chennai/Goa 22:30 SVA 500 Jeddah 14:30 KAC 415 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 23:55 KNE 460 Riyadh 15:55 JZR 185 Dubai 23:20 KNE 472 Jeddah 14:35 DIAL161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION stars34 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
CROSSWORD 505 STAR TRACK
Aries (March 21-April 19) Libra (September 23-October 22)
Some form of education is in the wind and you may be the instructor. There Your judgment could be temporarily out of order. Perhaps you have other is also the opportunity to be taught. Also, a new discovery brightens your things on your mind. To head off any real problems with your work, check and recheck day. It may spur you into writing a bit of poetry. Whatever the case, you will want to share your progress. Your judgment of people and products is usually accurate but today’s plan- the discoveries of this day. Charity work is something you enjoy doing but this birth year etary energies may help to create a few distractions. There are impressionable moments you will probably become more focused on a particular cause. Not only will you become today and you could regret your decisions, particularly based on someone else’s influence- focused within this realm of activity but you will make a positive difference in whatever take your time. You may experience a heightened artistic inspiration that manifests itself in you choose to support. Because of your ability to be creative and expressive, you may find creative work or just the urge to experience the beauty of nature. Work in the yard or with ways to run free advertisements to help your cause. People want to help you celebrate plants can be quite calming later today and will help you to gain a focus on the more posi- this evening. Happy birthday! tive parts of your life. Balance is returning.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
You are quick to act and can save the day on more than one occasion. There You might like to ignore responsibilities and do some socializing today but is good communication among authority figures as well as your peers. Believing in your- you know that is impossible for now. You drag your mind back into the business world and self is very important to your wellbeing. Expand your vision and do not give into any nega- make your intentions to create some plans this evening to enjoy the company of your tive thinking that could suppress your progress. You may enjoy discussing your education- friends . . . Perhaps a dinner party this coming weekend. You aim to complete your tasks- al background with a co-worker today. You find yourself remembering the fun times as goals and work are soon accomplished. There is stability in your movements with the well as the struggles that you have worked through. You feel value in your life and it is objective to see end results. There will be an urge to communicate. Also, perhaps a short admirable to express your appreciation for your own hard work as well as for those that trip or a special phone call is in order. Later this afternoon you will find you have a lot of helped you. Your creativity is strong. Opportunities exist to gain in recognition, applause energy and drive to be with your friends. This is a very physical time in which exercise is and attention from wherever you navigate. fun and invigorating. Romance is possible this evening.
Gemini (May 21-June 20) Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
You may find yourself analyzing situations, perhaps even people, in order to Put your mind to work and take care of any details that you may need to come up with solutions to problems. Someone could be hard to get along pull things into a completion. There are improvements scheduled now. with and an underlying truth will help guide him or her through a misunderstanding. You Anything you do in groups or as teamwork will be successful. Throw away anything that crave organization and practicality and you want to get things accomplished. This person does not serve you and set aside those things that are in need of updating or correction. ACROSS 4. Tiny lobster-like crustaceans usually boiled or situation could slow your progress-be prepared. Taking care of business is a major You underestimate your creative skills and may need some positive feedback today in 1. An honorary degree in science. briefly. theme where your emotional orientation is concerned. Your earning power seems to be in order to continue with some particular project. Guard against any misunderstandings with 4. A literary language of Chinese Turkestan 5. Cause to suffer. a holding pattern and a loved one may be more important to you at this time. Plan some a parent or older family member this afternoon. You have been on such a roll lately-it fun as well as relaxing times around your family for tonight. Your earnings will pick up in seems only right that you provide time for rest. This evening, rest is everybody’s attitude- (named for one of the sons of Genghis Khan). 6. Pertaining to or containing any of a group of perhaps a movie or a good book would help. Protect your love interests. 12. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of rub- organic compounds of nitrogen derived from due time. This time will allow a healing to occur. berized fabric. ammonia. 15. An actor's line that immediately precedes 7. A mountain peak in the Andes in Argentina and serves as a reminder for some action or (21,654 feet high). Capricorn (December 22-January 19) speech. 8. Fermented alcoholic beverage similar to but Cancer (June 21-July 22) In-depth discussions and probing conversations find you at your mental 16. Shrubby lichens of the family Usneaceae heavier than beer. You may decide to pitch the idea of where you wanted your present profes- having a flattened thallus. 9. The periodic rise and fall of the sea level best. Your analytical abilities are at a high. At one point today, you may feel sion to take you and instead take on a new persona. Working for a charity organization or that it is important to prove your ideas. Back up and take the whole situation into consid- 17. A period marked by distinctive character or under the gravitational pull of the moon. a religious group may be exactly where you want to be at this time, and besides, there eration. It certainly does not hurt to express your view and give some short demonstra- reckoned from a fixed point or event. 10. An associate degree in nursing. may be a very important person of dating possibilities, just waiting for you to join in the tion; keep it simple and keep your audience wanting more. Your creative spirit is on auto- 18. A loose sleeveless outer garment made 11. A plant hormone promoting elongation of group. If you create a plan for yourself that includes helping others, you tend to excel. matic drive, making you very expressive-give people time to digest your presentation. The from aba cloth. stems and roots. However, if you wait until you are much older before deciding to work with charities, there drive for interactions with loved ones is strong. There is a desire for physical intimacy 19. (botany) Of some seeds. 12. (Greek mythology) A princess of Colchis will be fewer opportunities for you to be expressive and helpful to others. You have great tonight with your loved one. Feed the spirit through some form of art, music or dance. This 20. Wild sheep of northern Africa. who aided Jason in taking the Golden Fleece appreciation for others that have not progressed in life and may find yourself analyzing is a wonderful time to do something special for your loved one. 22. A member of a Bantu people living chiefly in from her father. and aiding in their future goals. Planning for the future is always good. Botswana and western South Africa. 13. An Arabic speaking person who lives in 24. (Akkadian) God of wisdom. Arabia or North Africa. 26. The compass point that is one point east of 14. (of a young animal) Abandoned by its moth- Leo (July 23-August 22) Aquarius (January 20- February 18) northeast. er and raised by hand. Taking care of business is a major theme where your emotional orienta- Your work is successful. If a little attention goes a long way, think of what a 27. A New York river. 21. Reveal the true nature of. dedication to your work would bring about. You could be making new discoveries-it is 28. Type genus of the family Arcidae. 23. A republic in northeastern South America tion is concerned. You crave organization and practicality and you want to get things accomplished. You aim to have a place for everything and everything in its place. Health important not to become distracted. An older person in the family may need help later 30. A silvery ductile metallic element found pri- on the Atlantic. today and you are ready to comply. See if there is some way you could enlarge the circle of marily in bauxite. 25. A river in north central Switzerland that runs and work goals take on greater importance now. Secrets, conspiracies and the hidden links that unite all things take on a great deal of mystery. Digging into the past for hints caretakers so that you are not alone in this endeavor. This afternoon you will find yourself 32. The network in the reticular formation that northeast into the Rhine. about the present and future uncovers a lot of answers to the questions that will not go visiting and communicating with your many friends. Perhaps a hobby has your attention. serves an alerting or arousal function. 29. A rapid series of short loud sounds (as might away. When an elderly person is responsible for an animal or has friends, he or she usually Your attitude is good and you are in a mood to communicate with everyone you see. 37. Well grounded in logic or truth or having be heard with a stethoscope in some types of remains more alert and invested in their own daily living. Consider buying a houseplant or Being more involved with neighbors or siblings satisfies a deep emotional need. This is legal force. respiratory disorders). a few fish for a special elder; check back occasionally. also a beneficial time to exchange ideas and look for new ventures. 39. Singing jazz. 31. A basin for washing the hands (`wash-hand 41. The branch of philosophy that analyzes basin' is a British expression). inference. 33. The syllable naming the fourth (subdomi- Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) 43. Kitchen appliance used for baking or roast- nant) note of the diatonic scale in solmization. ing. 34. Small ornamental ladies' bag for small arti- You would do well to play it low key today. A friend has something to talk The pace of your success is rather dizzying now. This is a great time to work 45. Bring to light. cles. about and you could schedule in some visiting time for after work, or per- with others in a sharing situation. If you are looking to improve your position in the work- 47. Straggling shrub with narrow leaves and 35. A knapsack (usually for a soldier). haps the noon break. You may be asked to listen to a customer’s complaint. There are place, become more public by helping others with their work projects. In your personal conspicuous red flowers in dense globular 36. Common house and field crickets. opportunities to make your thoughts known in positive ways. You know how to make life, your interest in caring for your home and your planet may find you teaching others. A racemes. 38. Dormouse of southern Europe and northern fussy customers happy in an instant. This day brings some opportunities for financial gain. strong need for nurturing is a bigger than usual element in your life. Food also takes on 50. Perennial herb of East India to Polynesia and Africa. There are, however, the usual difficulties in the workplace today, but nothing you cannot more importance for you and there could be a tendency to gain weight. In this case, how- Australia cultivated for its large edible root 40. Being one hundred more than three hun- handle. Your concentration is enhanced and you could discover mistakes or improve on ever, your culinary talents are great, and you could fine-tune your expertise by conducting steps to a quick resolution to whatever you are concentrating on now. If you want to classes in the early evening for teenagers that are interested in your skill. You would be yielding Otaheite arrowroot starch. dred. begin a diet, today and tomorrow will be a time of productive beginnings. 51. Ulcerated chilblain on the heel. 42. Norwegian composer whose work was teaching them survival, job skills and good nutrition. 52. Relating to the abomasum (the fourth com- often inspired by Norwegian folk music (1843- partment of the stomach of ruminants). 1907). 55. Take in solid food. 44. (law) A comprehensive term for any pro- Word Search Yesterday Solution 56. (often followed by `of') A large number or ceeding in a court of law whereby an individual amount or extent. seeks a legal remedy. 57. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a 46. A silvery soft waxy metallic element of the skewer usually with vegetables. alkali metal group. 61. A metallic element having four allotropic 48. The basic unit of money in Bangladesh. forms. 49. A royal German family that provided rulers 63. Divulge information or secrets. for several European states and wore the crown 67. Sweet liqueur made from wine and brandy of the Holy Roman Empire from 1440 to 1806. flavored with plum or peach or apricot kernels 53. A workplace for the conduct of scientific and bitter almonds. research. 71. An associate degree in applied science. 54. Stairway in India leading down to a landing 75. An informal term for a father. on the water. 76. A local and habitual twitching especially in 58. Malevolent aspect of Devi. the face. 59. A port city in southwestern Iran. 77. On a shore or reef. 60. A small pellet fired from an air rifle or BB 78. Type genus of the Aceraceae. gun. 79. Hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary 62. A particular environment or walk of life. gland (trade name Pitressin) and also by nerve 64. Set down according to a plan. endings in the hypothalamus. 65. United States writer (born in Poland) who 80. A literary language of Chinese Turkestan wrote in Yiddish (1880-1957). (named for one of the sons of Genghis Khan). 66. A one-piece cloak worn by men in ancient 81. A less than average tide occurring at the first Rome. and third quarters of the moon. 68. The front of the head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear. DOWN 69. The content of cognition. 1. Someone who works (or provides workers) 70. An association of people to promote the during a strike. welfare of senior citizens. 2. A communist state in the Caribbean on the 72. British dominion over India (1757-1947). island of Cuba. 73. A state of southwestern India. 3. The event of dying or departure from life. 74. Temporary military shelter. Yesterday’s Solution
Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 information
For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 Al-Madeena 22418714 Al-Shuhada 22545171 GOVERNORATE PHARMACY ADDRESS PHONE Al-Shuwaikh 24810598 Ahmadi Sama Safwan Fahaeel Makka St 23915883 Sabah Hospital 24812000 Abu Halaifa Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd 23715414 Al-Nuzha 22545171 Danat Al-Sultan Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd 23726558 Amiri Hospital 22450005 Sabhan 24742838 Maternity Hospital 24843100 Jahra Modern Jahra Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 24575518 Madina Munawara Jahra-Block 92 24566622 Al-Helaly 22434853 Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 Capital Ahlam Fahad Al-Salem St 22436184 Al-Faiha 22545051 Chest Hospital 24849400 Khaldiya Coop Khaldiya Coop 24833967
Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 Farwaniya New Shifa Farwaniya Block 40 24734000 Al-Farwaniya 24711433 Ferdous Coop Ferdous Coop 24881201 Adan Hospital 23940620 Modern Safwan Old Kheitan Block 11 24726638 Al-Sulaibikhat 24316983 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 Hawally Tariq Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25726265 Al-Fahaheel 23927002 Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 Hana Salmiya-Amman St 25647075 Ikhlas Hawally-Beirut St 22625999 Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh 24316983 Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 Hawally & Rawdha Hawally & Rawdha Coop 22564549 Ghadeer Jabriya-Block 1A 25340559 Kindy Jabriya-Block 3B 25326554 Ahmadi 23980088 Ibn Al-Nafis Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St 25721264 Mishrif Coop Mishrif Coop 25380581 Al-Mangaf 23711183 Kaizen center 25716707 Salwa Coop Salwa Coop 25628241 Al-Shuaiba 23262845 Rawda 22517733
Adaliya 22517144 Al-Jahra 25610011 Khaldiya 24848075 Al-Salmiya 25616368 Kaifan 24849807 Shamiya 24848913 INTERNATIONAL Shuwaikh 24814507 CALLS Abdullah Salem 22549134
Nuzha 22526804 Afghanistan 0093 Iran 0098 Albania 00355 Iraq 00964 Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 Algeria 00213 Ireland 00353 Qadsiya 22515088 Andorra 00376 Italy 0039 Angola 00244 Ivory Coast 00225 Dasmah 22532265 Anguilla 001264 Jamaica 001876 Antiga 001268 Japan 0081 Bneid Al-Gar 22531908 Argentina 0054 Jordan 00962 Shaab 22518752 Armenia 00374 Kazakhstan 007 Australia 0061 Kenya 00254 Qibla 22459381 Austria 0043 Kiribati 00686 Bahamas 001242 Kuwait 00965 Ayoun Al-Qibla 22451082 Bahrain 00973 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Mirqab 22456536 Bangladesh 00880 Laos 00856 Barbados 001246 Latvia 00371 Sharq 22465401 Belarus 00375 Lebanon 00961 Belgium 0032 Liberia 00231 Salmiya 25746401 Belize 00501 Libya 00218 Jabriya 25316254 Benin 00229 Lithuania 00370 Bermuda 001441 Luxembourg 00352 Maidan Hawally 25623444 Bhutan 00975 Macau 00853 Bolivia 00591 Macedonia 00389 Bayan 25388462 Bosnia 00387 Madagascar 00261 Mishref 25381200 Botswana 00267 Majorca 0034 Brazil 0055 Malawi 00265 W Hawally 22630786 Brunei 00673 Malaysia 0060 Bulgaria 00359 Maldives 00960 Sabah 24810221 Burkina 00226 Mali 00223 Jahra 24770319 Burundi 00257 Malta 00356 Cambodia 00855 Marshall Islands 00692 New Jahra 24575755 Cameroon 00237 Martinique 00596 Canada 001 Mauritania 00222 West Jahra 24772608 Cape Verde 00238 Mauritius 00230 South Jahra 24775066 Cayman Islands 001345 Mayotte 00269 Central African 00236 Mexico 0052 North Jahra 24775992 Chad 00235 Micronesia 00691 Chile 0056 Moldova 00373 North Jleeb 24311795 China 0086 Monaco 00377 Ardhiya 24884079 Colombia 0057 Mongolia 00976 Comoros 00269 Montserrat 001664 Firdous 24892674 Congo 00242 Morocco 00212 Cook Islands 00682 Mozambique 00258 Omariya 24719048 Costa Rica 00506 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 N Khaitan 24710044 Croatia 00385 Namibia 00264 Cuba 0053 Nepal 00977 Fintas 23900322 Cyprus 00357 Netherlands (Holland) Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 0031 Czech Republic 00420 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Denmark 0045 New Caledonia 00687 Diego Garcia 00246 New Zealand 0064 PRIVATE CLINICS Djibouti 00253 Nicaragua 00505 Dominica 001767 Nigar 00227 Dominican Republic 001809 Nigeria 00234 Ecuador 00593 Niue 00683 Egypt 0020 Norfolk Island 00672 El Salvador 00503 Northern Ireland (UK) Plastic Surgeons Paediatricians Ophthalmologists Endocrinologist England (UK) 0044 0044 Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272 Dr. Khaled Hamadi 25665898 Equatorial Guinea 00240 North Korea 00850 Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari 22617700 Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300 Eritrea 00291 Norway 0047 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Abdel Quttainah 25625030/60 Dr. Zahra Qabazard 25710444 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Estonia 00372 Oman 00968 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Ethiopia 00251 Pakistan 0092 Family Doctor Dr. Sohail Qamar 22621099 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Falkland Islands 00500 Palau 00680 Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581 Dr. Snaa Maaroof 25713514 Faroe Islands 00298 Panama 00507 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Physiotherapists & VD Psychiatrists Dr. Pradip Gujare 23713100 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Fiji 00679 Papua New Guinea 00675 Dr. Zacharias Mathew 24334282 Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Finland 00358 Paraguay 00595 Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 (1) Ear, Nose and Throat (2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288 France 0033 Peru 0051 French Guiana 00594 Philippines 0063 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, Rheumatologists: French Polynesia 00689 Poland 0048 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 DrAdrian arbe 23729596/23729581 FRCS (Canada) 25655535 Gabon 00241 Portugal 00351 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dentists Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Gambia 00220 Puerto Rico 001787 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr Anil Thomas 3729596/3729581 Georgia 00995 Qatar 00974 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Shamah Al-Matar 22641071/2 Germany 0049 Romania 0040 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 Ghana 00233 Russian Federation 007 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed 22562226 Internist, Chest & Heart General Practitioners Gibraltar 00350 Rwanda 00250 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer 22561444 Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Greece 0030 Saint Helena 00290 Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan 22619557 General Surgeons Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid Greenland 00299 Saint Kitts 001869 Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash 22525888 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Grenada 001473 Saint Lucia 001758 Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan 25653755 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148 Assistant Professor Of Medicine Guadeloupe 00590 Saint Pierre 00508 Dr. Bader Al-Ansari 25620111 Guam 001671 Saint Vincent 001784 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Internists, Chest & Heart Head, Division of Cardiology Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Neurologists Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital Guatemala 00502 Samoa US 00684 Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Guinea 00224 Samoa West 00685 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Guyana 00592 San Marino 00378 Urologists Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan 25345875 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Farida Al-Habib 2611555-2622555 Haiti 00509 Sao Tone 00239 Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Gastrologists MD, PH.D, FACC Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Saudi Arabia 00966 Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Dr. Sami Aman 22636464 Inaya German Medical Center Honduras 00504 Scotland (UK) 0044 Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Te: 2575077 Hong Kong 00852 Senegal 00221 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali 22633135 Fax: 25723123 Hungary 0036 Seychelles 00284 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Sierra Leone 00232 Soor Center Iceland 00354 Singapore 0065 Psychologists [email protected] Tel: 2290-1677 Kaizen center William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 India 0091 Slovakia 00421 /Psychotherapists www.soorcenter.com Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 25716707 Indian Ocean 00873 Slovenia 00386 Indonesia 0062 Solomon Islands 00677 lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 MUSIC & MOVIES Springsteen among those to fete Rock Hall class ruce Springsteen, Stevie Nicks, Carrie Frey will induct the singer. Underwood, Chris Martin: The stars are Michael Stipe of R.E.M. will induct Bturning out to salute the 2014 Rock Nirvana, Coldplay’s Chris Martin will induct and Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Peter Gabriel, Tom Morello handles those The hall of fame announced yesterday duties for KISS, and Ahmir “Questlove” that “The Boss” will fittingly induct and per- Thompson will induct fellow Philadelphians form with his loyal E Street Band, while a Hall and Oates. Inductees Daryl Hall and superstar lineup of Nicks, Underwood, John Oates, Gabriel and Cat Stevens will per- Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris and Sheryl form during the April 10 ceremony, which Crow will perform for Linda Ronstadt. Glenn will be broadcast May 31 on HBO. — AP This image released by Vivacity Media Group shows the cast in a scene from the musical ‘Heathers’ performing at New World Stages in New York. — AP Review: ‘Heathers: The Musical’ shallow but catchy
ll of the fantastically mixed-up charac- Heathers, the three-headed power-clique who of them include “Fight for Me,” a hilarious cafe- ters in “Heathers: The Musical” seem rule the school. Dressed in shoulder-padded teria brawl, the Heathers’ girl-power anthem Aplagued by the show’s timeless catch blazers and skimpy miniskirts - and generous- “Candy Store,” and “Shine a Light,” a spiritually phrase, a telling rhetorical question: “What’s ly accessorized with Swatches and scrunchies - uplifting school assembly scene. your damage?” There’s plenty of damage to go the girls terrorize less popular kids, while pep- Bruce Springsteen performs at the Stand Up for Heroes event at Madison Square around in Westerberg High, the wildly chaotic, pering their speech with the vague, disinter- Impressive acting chops Garden, in New York. —AP often cruel, but always colorful wonderland at ested appraisals “so very,” and cutting insults Thankfully, there is not a trace in McCartan the center of off-Broadway’s latest theatrical like, “Did you have a brain tumor for break- and Weed’s performances of the actors who remake of a cinematic favorite. Like the cult fast?” Likable narrator and protagonist, originated their roles on-screen a quarter-cen- classic movie it’s based on, this dark, dement- Veronica Sawyer (Barrett Wilbert Weed), tury ago, Christian Slater and Winona Ryder. ed comedy somehow keeps us in stitches barters her marketable talent for forging Rather than leaning on familiar impressions of Agron Joins Sudeikis, though treading not-so-lightly on some of the handwriting to gain membership into the the movie stars, they make the characters all most troubling subjects in the social curricu- group, instantly elevating her social status a their own, especially with the lovely duet lum of American youth - bullying, school vio- few notches. But when she has a falling out “Seventeen,” one example of the show’s lence and teen suicide. with Heather No. 1, she gravitates to JD (Ryan uniquely alluring ability to blend romance, Hall rom-com ‘Tumbledown’ Even bulimia is fair game, though accord- McCartan), a mysterious transfer student with humor and horror. ormer “Glee” actress Dianna Agron has ing to one of the musical’s three hopelessly a dark streak. That’s when the violence begins, The up-and-coming Weed (“Lysistrata joined Jason Sudeikis and Rebecca Hall in shallow title characters, “it’s so ‘87.” “Heathers” or as Veronica calls it, “teenage angst with a Jones,” “Bare”) has all the tools to be a star in the romantic comedy “Tumbledown,” opened Monday at New World Stages, 25 body count.” musical theater, a daring vocal style, impres- F which began principal photography in years to the day that the 1989 film was After getting its feet wet with a few concert sive acting chops and a natural flair for come- Massachusetts this week. Agron co-stars with released. The lively, campy tribute combines performances at Joe’s Pub in New York, dy. Katie Ladner delights as Veronica’s nerdy Joe Manganiello, Blythe Danner, Griffin Dunne all the twisted humor and teen spirit of its “Heathers” made a successful premiere friend, Martha Dunnstock (cruelly nicknamed and Richard Masur in director Sean Mewshaw’s predecessor with a charming score of mostly engagement in Los Angeles before coming to Martha “Dump Truck”), though her solo bal- first feature, written by first-time feature tuneful melodies and fresh lyrics by Laurence off-Broadway. The current production could lad “Kindergarten Boyfriend” seems mis- screenwriter Desi Van Til. The filmmakers previ- O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy. This reunion of do with some liberal trimming, running well placed near the end of a second act inter- ously collaborated on the short film “Last Westerberg’s social climbers, jocks, nerds and over two hours and weighed down by a cou- rupted as it builds to an explosive finale. Night,” which starred Frances McDormand and outsiders retains much of the original plot and ple of songs that are either not strong enough Another odd choice is the ensemble number premiered at the Venice Film Festival. revives many of the deliciously quotable lines to warrant inclusion or simply get in the way that opens the second act, “Dead Gay Son,” “Tumbledown,” produced by Kristin Hahn of the Daniel Waters screenplay is remembered of the narrative. But the extra polish it an ambitious gospel shout that lacks the Indigo Films and Aaron L. Gilbert and Margot for (including a certain now-famous expletive received before it arrived at New World Stages strong lead vocals you would expect from Hand of Bron Studios, takes place deep in the involving a chain saw and the adverb “gently”). is reflected in many of its irresistibly fun and such a song. Despite minor issues with pac- forests of Maine. Hannah (Hall) is unable to neatly executed ensemble numbers featuring ing, particularly after the intermission, move on after the death of her husband, an ‘It’s so ‘87’ more than a dozen cast members, under the “Heathers” pays off in the end with all-cast acclaimed musician and the subject of a biog- Most of these legendary quotes emanate direction of Andy Fickman with choreography finale that should send audiences away hap- raphy she’s struggling to write, when she meets from the crude but catchy lexicon of the by Marguerite Derricks. The most memorable py, at least by high school standards. —AP Andrew, a brash New York academic who has a different take on her husband’s life - and death. Dianna Agron The unlikely pair must collaborate to craft the sales are being handled by Sierra/Affinity. famous singer’s story and begin to write the Financing provided by Bron Studios, CW Media next chapter in their lives together. Finance, Corner Piece Capital and Coastal Whitford says film stars Capital. Van Til and Mewshaw are managed by CAA packaged the project and will be repre- are now seeking TV roles senting North American rights. International Anonymous Content. — Reuters ith A-listers like Matthew gonna be successful.” Whitford said that was true Oprah’s former McConaughey, Julia Roberts and Halle to a certain extent with “West Wing.” “Nobody WBerry jumping to TV, actor Bradley thought it was gonna work. ‘You can’t have a Whitford marvels at how show-biz stigma of the fake president. It’s about politics, that never stepmother small screen is now a thing of the past. Whitford works,’” he said. “People found it and it grew to is best known for his role as Deputy Chief of Staff be much bigger than we ever thought it would Josh Lyman on NBC’s critically acclaimed series be.” Whitford stars on the ABC comedy “Trophy “The West Wing” (1999-2006). “I remember think- Wife” (airing Tuesdays at 9:30 pm EDT). gets 60 days ing, oh thank god there’s this snobbery about He plays an older husband with a younger TV,” the 54-year-old actor said in a recent inter- wife (Malin Akerman). His character has two ex- view. “I was getting better writing by an expo- wives (Marcia Gay Harden and Michaela to vacate nential amount than Meryl Streep when I was on Watkins). Despite the show’s title, Akerman’s Kate ‘West Wing.’ I was so grateful. isn’t a stereotypical piece of arm candy for prah Winfrey’s former stepmother “Now unfortunately, all the movie stars, the Whitford’s Pete, much like TBS’ “Cougar Town” has been given extra time to vacate big flossers, have realized that not only do you isn’t about older women paired with younger Othe $1.4 million home she once get great writing, (but) it’s a really satisfying way men. Ratings for “Trophy Wife” have been so-so, shared with the father of the iconic TV talk- of storytelling. ... It’s not about blowing stuff up.” but Whitford is hoping for a second season. He show host. Winfrey spokeswoman Nicole He hopes this trend won’t mean qualified actors said he was “looking to do something different Nichols told The Associated Press in an email will be overlooked for someone with a bigger and comedy was definitely something I was that Oprah’s company has granted Barbara name. “If anybody had any idea that ‘Breaking looking for.” He also wanted to work with Harden. Winfrey 60 days to leave following her Bad’ was gonna be a tenth as successful as it was, He has seen her Tony-winning performance in request for more time. (creator) Vince (Gilligan) would not have been Broadway’s “God of Carnage” four times. “It was Barbara Winfrey and Vernon Winfrey allowed to write it,” Whitford said. “Bryan bordering on stalking,” he said. “By the way,” divorced last year. Court records show that (Cranston) would not have been allowed to be in File photo shows actor Bradley Whitford Whitford added, “on ‘West Wing,’ I was one of the Overground Railroad LLC filed paperwork it. None of that beautiful cast would be in it. arrives at the PaleyFest Previews: Fall TV young guys and now (on ‘Trophy Wife’) I’m earlier this month asking that Barbara Same with ‘The Sopranos.’ We never would’ve show ìTrophy Wifeî at The Paley Center for Wilford (expletive) Brimley. It’s prostate jokes and Winfrey be evicted from the Franklin, met James Gandolfini if anybody thought it was Media in Beverly Hills, Calif. — AP stuff! There was no segue way!” — AP Tennessee, home. Barbara Winfrey repre- sented herself in court. A phone number list- ed in public records under that name was not accepting messages. — AP Oprah Winfrey Sheriff: Man broke into Selena Gomez guesthouse uthorities say they’ve arrested a man who’s accused of breaking into Selena AGomez’s guesthouse while the 21- year-old actress and singer was home. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department says 20-year-old transient Cruz Che is being held Monday on $50,000 bail. Deputies didn’t know if he’d retained an attorney. Sgt Fray Lupian says Gomez arrived at her Calabasas home at about 9:30 pm Sunday when she heard a noise and called security. Shakira and He says the suspect knocked on the door Blake Shelton and a friend answered but slammed it closed when he asked for Gomez. Security found the suspect in the guesthouse and held him for deputies. Gomez, the former “Wizards of Shakira and Blake to duet on ACM Awards Waverly Place” actress turned pop star, was named favorite female singer Saturday night at the Kids’ Choice Awards. — AP lake Shelton will take a time out from They join previously-announced perform- Down” and “I’m a Lonesome Fugitive. Garth his co-hosting duties on CBS’s 49th ers Miranda Lambert, George Strait and Brooks will also be on hand to present BAnnual ACM Awards for a duet with Hunter Hayes. Lambert and Strait will pay Haggard with the award. Shakira. NBC’s “The Voice” coaches will duet tribute to country legend Merle Haggard, Shelton and Luke Bryan will co-host The on their recently-released single, “Medicine,” who’s receiving the Crystal Milestone Award ACM Awards airing live from Las Vegas’ MGM File photo shows Selena Gomez from Shakira’s most recent album, the self- this year, dueting on a medley of Haggard’s Grand Garden Arena on Sunday at 8/7c on performs in concert at the Giant titled “Shakira.” tunes, including “Tonight the Bottle Let Me CBS. — Reuters Center in Hershey, Penn. — AP LIFESTYLE37 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014 MUSIC & MOVIES Russian rock stars rail against Crimea campaign Indian Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, African actor Vipinno and Bollywood director Asshu Trikha speak onstage during a promotional event for the forthcoming Hindi film ‘Koyelaanchal’, produced and directed by Asshu Trikha, in Mumbai. — AFP
Nine Inch Nails’ Trent A picture taken on October 11, 2010, shows Russian rock musicians Andrey Makarevich and Boris Grebenshchikov speaking with Dmitry Medvedev, then Russiaís President, during their meeting Beat-Blues Cafe in Moscow. — AFP photos hile patriotic fervour grips Russia ‘From Crimea to the Yenisei!’ over its takeover of Crimea and The Kremlin has a cohort of stars Reznor feels ‘fresh start’ WPresident Vladimir Putin’s ready to turn out in support, however. approval ratings soar, some of the top For Red Square celebrations after rent Reznor says he feels “a fresh new start” for Nine Inch Nails after names in Russian rock have emerged as Crimea’s annexation, rock band Lyube- the band’s latest album and world tour. Reznor released “Hesitation among very few high-profile voices of said to be a favorite of Putin’s-swiftly Marks” in September after his long, self-imposed hiatus. In the five T dissent inside the country. Those who updated a patriotic hit to sing that Russia years since the industrial rockers’ last offering, he won an Academy Award have criticized the intervention in Crimea stretches “From Crimea to the Yenisei,” for his soundtrack work on “The Social Network,” married musician include several grizzled veterans of the referring to a river in Siberia. A host of Mariqueen Maandig and became a father to two young boys. perestroika-era rock scene as well as popular stars signed a Soviet-style public “In these few years, I kind of accidentally got into scoring films. I started younger stars. Among the most outspo- letter organized by the culture ministry a new band: How to Destroy Angels; we put two records out. I tried writ- ken critics is Andrei Makarevich, a curly- in support of Putin’s position on Ukraine. ing a TV show for HBO, which failed. I started a family, and surprisingly, I haired singer who led the hugely popu- Among them were squeaky-clean found myself inspired by that,” Reznor told The Associated Press before lar Soviet-era band Mashina Vremeni pop singer Valeriya and patriotic singer playing over the weekend at the Lollapalooza festival in Chile. And he felt (Time Machine), known for melodic Oleg Gazmanov, both listed in Forbes like writing some Nine Inch Nails songs. songs about personal freedom. Russia’s top 50 entertainment figures At first Reznor was hesitant about embarking on tour. “But we started “Everything that is happening in our and regularly shown on state television. rehearsing and it was fun, it felt fresh. I’ve been looking at things through country today-the rabid propaganda, the Rock band Alisa, which has played at finite eyes,” he said. “Life feels different at 48 than it did at 24. I don’t know frenzy of jingoism, even the Olympics- Kremlin concerts, this week cancelled a how much longer I’ll be doing this, or people will care ... it’s not as endless tour of Ukraine planned for May calling it as it once seemed, so I treat it more preciously.” While on tour, Reznor is in a state of “coup d’etat and anarchy.” also working on scoring director David Fincher’s upcoming film “Gone Girl.” “The main thing that I’m concerned about is putting myself in positions ‘Stop lying to your people’ and places that are often uncomfortable, to force myself to grow as an Yet Makarevich is not alone in break- artist,” Reznor said. “I don’t think I’ve written the best songs I can write. I ing ranks on Ukraine. Cult rock singer don’t think I know how to write songs very well yet. I’m not saying that to Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails performs at the Vive Latino music festi- Boris Grebenshchikov, reacted furiously be humble, but I’ve got a long ways to go.” — AP val in Mexico City, Mexico. — AP when state television used one of his hits as the soundtrack to footage of Kiev protests. How Paramount kept ‘Godfather’ of house music They combined footage of clashes in Kiev with his lyrics: “This land was ours ‘Noah’ from sinking and until we got bogged down in the fight. It Frankie Knuckles dies at 59 will die if it belongs to no one. It’s time for us to return this land.” beat the bad buzz - again rankie Knuckles, a pioneer of pulled at Disco Demolition Night and To retaliate, Grebenshchikov, the lead house music who also mixed it didn’t mean a thing to me or my singer of Aquarium, posted a simple anti- Frecords for the likes of Michael crowd,” Knuckles told the Tribune. war song on YouTube called “Love in a Jackson and Whitney Houston, has time of war.” “Stop setting one people died at the age of 59, news reports against others, stop lying to your people said early yesterday. The death of a Russian rock musician Andrey for the sake of the semblance of profit man dubbed the “godfather” of Makarevich performing in Beat-Blues today. Tomorrow it will lead to immea- Chicago house music was confirmed Cafe in Moscow. surably worse losses,” he wrote on by his longtime business partner, are very reminiscent of Germany in the Facebook. One of Russia’s most mysteri- Frederick Dunson, the Chicago late 1930s,” he wrote in a series of ous stars, rock singer Zemfira, who fierce- Tribune reported. Dunson said Facebook posts. “When the mass psy- ly guards her privacy, also chose to put Knuckles died unexpectedly at home. chosis ends (and it will), we will all out a pro-Ukrainian message. The cause of death for Knuckles, remember that Ukraine is our neighbor On March 2 the androgynous singer who over the weekend deejayed at and closest relative,” he added. The 60- posted on her official site a video of her the Ministry of Sounds’ club in year-old singer-who until now was not singing a song by ultra-political Ukrainian London, was not immediately known. seen as an anti-Kremlin figure and even band Okean Elzy which staunchly backed Dunson said more details on the sat next to Putin at a Paul McCartney the uprising against president Viktor This image released by Paramount Pictures shows Russell Crowe, death would be released today. left, and Ray Winstone in a scene from ‘Noah.’ — AP concert in 2003 — has faced a backlash. Yanukovych. “I want to support, say hi and Besides developing the sound and When Makarevich attended a peace to thank and join all Ukrainian musicians,” oah’ withstood a tsunami of of those - it was both.” She added: culture of house music, Knuckles march down a Moscow boulevard in late she wrote on VKontakte social networking bad buzz to score a $44 mil- “The key was to provide moviegoers mixed records for performers includ- March, wearing ribbons in Ukrainian col- site. Okean Elzy has had its concerts in ‘Nlion debut last weekend and with context, so that they would ing Houston, Jackson and Depeche “But it scared the record companies, ors, state television zoomed in on his face Russia cancelled following the crisis. capture the top spot at the box office. know what they were going to see.” Mode, the Tribune said. After learning so they stopped signing disco artists with a disapproving comment. More than Senator John McCain photographed its The opening won’t be one for the to be a club DJ in New York, Knuckles and making disco records. So we cre- 21,000 people have signed an online electrifying concert on Kiev’s record books, and with a reported From ‘World War Z’ to ‘Noah’ moved to Chicago in the late 1970s ated our own thing in Chicago to fill petition calling for Makarevich to be Independence Square in December. production budget of $125 million, Going into last weekend, the story and forged fame as one of the city’s the gap.” Knuckles would extend mix- Other more predictable figures to speak the picture must navigate more of “Noah” - the movie - was of a studio stripped of his state decorations includ- most influential dance music forces. es of soul and R&B records and turn ing the title of “People’s Artist” for march- out include shaggy-haired Yury Shevchuk, rough weather on its journey to prof- at war with director Darren He came to the city just as disco them into dance tracks, introduce itability, but it’s the latest example of Aronofsky, best known for “Black ing “with murderers from the Maidan” the leader of rock band DDT who is a reg- was dying out, a trend underscored new singles being produced by protest hub in Kiev. In response, writer ular at protests against Putin. “Each of us Paramount Pictures taking a pricey Swan,” and under siege from Christian when a local deejay Steve Dahl blew fledgling house artists and incorpo- high-profile movie that could have groups over deviations from the Lyudmila Ulitskaya and Russia’s top pop must simply do everything he can to up hundreds of disco albums. “I wit- rate drum machines to emphasize diva Alla Pugachyova were among those avoid a fratricidal war,” he wrote on his capsized under the weight of punish- Bible, while a wildly expensive pro- nessed that caper that Steve Dahl the beat, the Tribune said. —AFP ing headlines and launching it suc- duction hung in the balance. “Had to sign an open letter comparing his blog. He titled the entry “Don’t shoot!”-a cessfully. In the case of “Noah,” Darren made some choices that “hounding” to the treatment of Soviet hugely influential song DDT performed in Paramount remained sensitive to the would have made the movie more dissidents such as the physicist Andrei the early 80s inspired by the Soviet war in concerns of religious leaders, while orthodox, I think it would have got- Sakharov and writer Boris Pasternak. Afghanistan. — AFP selling the film with the kind of lavish ten more support from the Christian MGM rebooting special effects that appealed to secu- community, but it’s still a terrific lar crowds. opening,” Phil Cooke, a media con- Paramount pulled off a similar sultant who spoke with Paramount ‘The Pink Panther’ feat with Brad Pitt’s “World War Z” last during its outreach to Christian lead- as a live action-animation hybrid summer, and again with Martin ers, said. New music coming from Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Fidelity aside, Aronofsky’s take on “The Wolf of Wall Street” last the Old Testament tale debuted Christmas, both of which were domestically with roughly $10 million Michael Jackson estate plagued with stories about last- more than what analysts had project- minute reshoots and marathon edits. ed it would amass. It will cross the Those films not only averted disaster $100 million mark worldwide in two This May 31, 1997 but went on to box office success. weeks. From “World War Z” to “Noah,” file photo shows US The $190 million “World War Z” was the negativity came out before the Popstar Michael pilloried for budget overruns and for film did. But there’s more to it than Jackson performing jettisoning its original ending, but that. A willingness on the part of the during his ‘HIStory opened to a better-than-expected production team to be open to Tour Part II’ across $66 million in June and went on to change helps. Germany and make $540 million worldwide. It will Brad Grey, chairman and chief Europe at the spawn a sequel. The $100 million executive at Paramount Pictures, Weserstadion in “The Wolf of Wall Street,” which was green-lighted the film and was will- Bremen, North produced by Red Granite and distrib- ing to do whatever it took to put the he Pink Panther will be Mirisch. David Silverman, of “The Germany. — AP uted by Paramount, drew fire for its best film out there. Pitt’s zombie rebooted once again. MGM Simpsons Movie” and “Monsters, explicit scenes of drug use and sexual thriller “World War Z” went through Tannounced Monday that it is Inc.” will direct. debauchery. But instead of shying several endings, at no small cost, taking another pass at reviving the “I am proud that the ‘Pink away from the controversy, before it found the right one. And famed franchise, and this time Panther’ - both the feature films Paramount embraced it as a tool to “Noah” was extensively test-screened around, they’ll give it a very 21st and the great library of cartoons drive awareness. That film’s box office and tweaked before Aronofsky and century spin. The series, which ini- created by David De Patie and Friz is now up to $390 million worldwide, Paramount settled on the final cut. no small feat for an R-rated movie Aronofsky spent weeks creating tially launched in 1963, will still be Freleng that sprang from it - contin- centered on a financial fraudster. exploratory versions of the film, with executive produced by Walter ues to be one of the brightest jew- Megan Colligan, Paramount’s a particular line of dialogue or an Mirisch, but instead of a live action els in the crown of Mirisch films,” new posthumous album of previous- work as “contemporizing” in a Monday president of domestic marketing and extended scene, and getting feed- style - the first six of which starred Mirisch said. “Now, for the first ly unreleased Michael Jackson music news release. A deluxe version will include distribution, told TheWrap that back from test audiences. Paramount Peter Sellers as Inspector Clouseau - time, the live action franchise will Acomes out May 13. Epic Records and the original recordings. Few details were “Noah” was uncharted territory. also dealt with some of the criticism it will be a live-CGI hybrid. And, the be united with the world- famous the late pop singer’s estate will release shared Monday, but Reid did say the album “Darren delivered a movie that was of “Noah” head-on and began its out- new movie will focus on the pink cartoon character in a new hybrid “Xscape,” an album of eight new tracks that is named for a track produced by Jackson complicated, a little bit arthouse, an reach to religious leaders early in the cat that was the star of a decade’s feature film. I am excited by our have been updated musically by producers and Jerkins, then later updated by Jerkins. action movie and spiritual all at the process. They were invited to the set worth of cartoon shorts. concept and I look forward to an including Timbaland, Rodney Jerkins, It’s the only song on the album where the same time,” she said. “We couldn’t sell and had dinner with the studio’s top Julie Andrews, the wife of the outstanding movie entertainment.” Stargate, Jerome “Jroc” Harmon and John original producer freshened the music. it like ‘300’ and we couldn’t sell it like executives while the picture was still late Blake Edwards, who directed The last reboot, which starred Steve McClain. Jackson died in June 2009 at 50 from a ‘Son of God,’ because it wasn’t either shooting. —Reuters much of the original film series, will Martin as Clousseau, spanned two Executive producer LA Reid refers to the lethal dose of an anesthetic. — AP serve as a producer along side films, in 2006 and 2009. — Reuters lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
Features
An ornate stairway in Las Pozas.
Photo shows two spiral staircases leading nowhere amid an ornate concrete structure. In Mexican jungle, surreal art garden Las Pozas
t the end of a long, dirt road in Mexico’s northeast jungle, bought land through a Mexican friend and spent the next 20 though he was a millionaire, he often slept in a sleeping two spiral staircases appear, leading nowhere amid an years of his life building his garden. bag among the weeds,” Barbosa said. Walking through the Aornate concrete structure. Giant concrete fleur-de-lis The park was half-built by the time its creator died 30 years labyrinthine paths overrun by the jungle is an adventure. flank a path, and tall bamboo-shaped columns surround a ago, but it remains an impressive work of art, with an air of mys- And just when it seems that there is nothing more to see, a house with no walls. Oversize plaster orchids are in permanent tery added by the rust and deterioration brought on by nature. small, stone pre-Columbian house opens the way to a stun- bloom, while a natural waterfall ceaselessly flows down a The original project, interestingly, had nothing to do with the ning square where a giant concrete sculpture of a bloom- mountain. This is Las Pozas, a dreamy, little-known garden of garden’s ultimate design. ing flower sits. surreal art, where sculptures evoke the ruins of ancient Greece With park guides’ help, visitors can access the most but are overrun by exotic jungle plants. It was created by the Complex sculptures remote corners of the park, including a concrete bed late Edward James, a British multimillionaire and arts patron For years, James cultivated thousands of orchids on his land, shaped like a tree leaf where James used to meditate and who favored surrealists like Rene Magritte and Salvador Dali. but in 1962 a cold snap destroyed them, said Zaira Linan, the prepare for death. But James didn’t die in his precious park. park’s assistant director. James then ordered workers to build He died in 1984 in San Remo, Italy, when a stroke put an Future civilization cement flowers that weather couldn’t destroy, Linan said. The end to his delirious project. Since he didn’t leave any A view of Las Pozas. “Mr Edward wanted to bewilder,” said Carlos Barbosa, a park son of British aristocrats and grandson of a Canadian timber sketches for future sculptures, construction halted and the guide. He thought of the park “as a joke to a future civilization.” baron, James first came to Mexico in 1944 at the invitation of jungle began to take over, Linan said. And visitors are bewildered by Las Pozas, located on a 100-acre psychiatrist Erich Fromm. He joined a salon of intellectuals and In 1990, Gastelum’s son, who is also named Plutarco, (40-hectare) hillside where the Sierra Madre mountains and artists at Cuernavaca, the resort city just southeast of Mexico opened the park to the public. He remembers James as a coastal plains of the northeast state of San Luis Potosi meet. “I City. “tender” character whom he called “Uncle Eduardo,” and had seen videos and documents but I didn’t expect it to be so It was in Cuernavaca that he met Plutarco Gastelum, a says he is often surprised by the curious anecdotes he impressive,” said Vida Arellano, a tourist from the northern state Mexican friend who helped oversee the garden’s progress as reads about James, including one that claims he may be an of Chihuahua. “Once you are here, you are enveloped by nature, workers built wooden molds from James’ drawings and filled unacknowledged descendant of Britain’s King Edward VII. the sculptures, the architecture ... it transports you to a different them with cement to create the sculptures. “It wasn’t until I was much older that I thought, ‘How come I mental state.”Las Pozas means the pools. James’ imagination didn’t stop with the flowers. He began to have an English uncle?’” Gastelum said laughing. In 2007, The ferocity of the jungle in these hills of the Sierra Madre, a design increasingly complex sculptures, often inspired by artis- Gastelum turned the garden over to a foundation so more seven-hour drive from Mexico City, has destroyed many struc- tic philosophies he encountered in his travels. He would sketch resources could be devoted to preserving its 36 sculptures. tures in the garden. But that didn’t bother James, who liked to his sculptures on postcards and mail them to Gastelum. Today it draws 75,000 visitors annually. — AP think that future archaeologists would discover his lost city and Barbosa remembered with amusement James’ many eccentrici- wonder what kind of civilization had built it, Barbosa said. ties, including the time he asked a cook to make a banquet for a James inherited a fortune from his father and used the mon- menagerie of exotic animals he kept and loved like his children. ey to support the work of great surrealists, including Dali, Photo shows trees framed through a concrete philoden- Magritte, Leonora Carrington and Remedios Varo. Fascinated Uncle Eduardo dron sculpture at Las Pozas, a dreamy, little-known garden with Mexico, he arrived in San Luis Potosi in the mid-1940s, James “used to walk naked through the park and even of surreal art, in Mexico’s northeast jungle. — AP photos
A natural waterfall flows down a rock wall in Las Pozas. Photo shows a view of Las Pozas. A flower sculpture in Las Pozas. Is New York ready for an ugly Baroque swamp nymph? erman fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld is a sion. It will miss out on the spectacular, fashion- and emotionally it is cooler in some way.” Lionel de Fritsch said after seeing “Platee”. “The music, household name; 18th-century French com- inspired staging at Vienna’s Theater an der Wien and the satire, the production are not at all out of date,” Gposer Jean-Philippe Rameau isn’t. But the two Paris’ Opera Comique, where it ended a sold-out run Inventive music said retiree Dominique Walter. “It is completely mod- have been doing quite well together in a European on Sunday. But the singers, musicians and dancers French harpsichordist Christophe Rousset, whose ern.”— Reuters opera now heading briefly to New York. Two hundred will be the same. In Carsen’s production of Rameau’s period-instrument band Les Talens Lyriques will stage and fifty years after Rameau’s death, a revival of his opera, the nymph is sung by an in-drag high-tenor a Hollywood-themed “Platee” in Strasbourg in June, 1745 opera “Platee” about an unsightly swamp nymph Marcel Beekman. says that Rameau, who wrote a famous treatise on who falls for the god Jupiter - dressed in Lagerfeld- It featured a mirrored staircase modeled on the harmony, was also a great musician, on a par with like black and cradling a white cat resembling the one in the designer Coco Chanel’s famous Paris flat - Bach and an inspiration to Berlioz and Ravel. For designer’s prized “Choupette” - is to have a one-night the ultimate space in which to see and be seen. The “Platee”, Rameau wrote the first known music to delib- stand in the Big Apple this week after successful runs character of “La Folie” (Madness), who sings the erately imitate the croaking of amphibians, Rousset in Vienna and Paris. opera’s most famous aria, warning Platee that she is said. Some of Rameau’s other musically rich if implausi- deluded if she believes Jupiter really loves her, wore a “He (Rameau) said at the end of his life that he lost bly plotted operas are also making the rounds of succession of outfits worthy of Lady Gaga. Carsen, too much time composing music and he should have Europe for his anniversary. “The theatre of the 17th who set a Verdi “Falstaff” in a blindingly yellow 1950s dedicated more time to theories... but obviously he’s a and 18th century has a real harmony with our period, English kitchen, thinks there is a “false tradition of big artist and he created very moving music,” Rousset it’s very edgy,” Canadian director Robert Carsen, who embalming” opera and expressed regret “New York is said. The fact that these operas can fill theatres - albeit dreamt up the fashionista-themed production of not going to see the show which I think New York sometimes tiny ones - has drawn the attention of “Platee”, said in a telephone interview from Zurich. would have enjoyed a lot”. opera directors, among them Kasper Holten, director Performances of such operas are not unknown in the But he hopes to get “Platee into a costume” for of the Royal Opera in London which staged the Cavalli United States and elsewhere, but Europe, with its what he views as an opera very much of our time - opera jointly with the Globe. keen interest in the period-instrument movement even if it was first performed at Versailles for the mar- “It’s a genuine collaboration where we learn about that tries to replicate the sound of old orchestras and riage of Louis XV’s son. “It’s an absolutely wonderful each other and we learn from each other,” Holten told ensembles, has embraced them as nowhere else. piece, the music is divine and I mean Rameau is the- Reuters about “L’Ormindo”, which includes interaction The one-off performance by the Paris-based peri- atre,” Carsen said, adding that not a word or note of between singers and audience that would never hap- od-instrument group Les Arts Florissants at New the original had been changed. “It’s far away from the pen at Covent Garden. Audiences are lapping it up. York’s Alice Tully Hall tomorrow will be a concert ver- naturalism or even the realism of 19th-century opera “Baroque can be comic,” French government worker lifestyle WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 2014
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The St Regis Abu Dhabi Hotel: Al-Manhal’s bedroom details An outstanding experiment
estled on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, in the heart of the New business and social hub vibrant city and surrounded by the capital’s many The St Regis Abu Dhabi will encourage an era of lavish Nattractions, The St Regis Abu Dhabi presents itself as entertainment, sumptuous suppers and memorable meetings. one of the finest expressions of bespoke hospitality. A thoughtful blend of authentic Arabian hospitality and over a The St Regis brand’s rich heritage and beginnings date hundred years of remarkable St Regis tradition merge to Remede back to one of the most notable American families in history - become the business and social hub for Arabian royalty, cor- Ladies the Astors. Building on a family legacy, author and heir John porate executives and leisure guests from all over the world. Treatment Jacob Astor IV was personally responsible for creating The St Room Regis New York, the tallest, most advanced hotel of its time. In Accommodation the same tradition, The St Regis Abu Dhabi presents itself as a The hotel features 283 elegantly appointed guestrooms preeminent address in the nation’s capital, combining time- and suites from the 33rd to the 49th floor, offering captivating less traditions and uncompromising service with Arabian views of the Arabian Gulf. 228 Superior Rooms (2 disability grace and hospitality. Today it welcomes you in the same accessible) 17 Junior Suites, 15 Grand Deluxe Suites, 17 St manner inspired by the Astor family more than a century ago. Regis Suites, Three Al-Mushref Suites, one Al-Manhal Suite, one Al-Hosen Suite and one Abu Dhabi Suite. Signature venues From intimate to grand, extraordinary gestures to under- Al-Mudhaif ballroom - Banquet stated elegance, our function rooms lend gatherings an air of distinction. The unique variety of spaces adds a special touch to events, whether business related or social. From a perfectly conducted meeting or flawless dining experience, to the bespoke services only the St Regis Butler Service can provide, The St Regis Abu Dhabi exceeds all expectations.
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Pakistani brides talk as they attend a mass-wedding ceremony in Karachi. Some 115 couples participated in the mass-wedding ceremony organized by a local charity welfare trust. — AFP Roaring ’20s-themed weddings have all that jazz
he Roaring ‘20s live on in pop culture as a high- They also suggest silver-spangled mesh table cov- spirited whirl of a decade, full of dancing flap- ers, and candelabra dripping with pearl strands. You Tpers, dapper gents and an overall air of opti- could scrounge flea markets for inexpensive brooches mism. For many modern brides and grooms, it’s the and necklaces to trim napkins and cutlery. Lacy table- perfect vibe for a wedding. Baz Luhrmann’s “Great cloths are easy to find in antique stores. And peacock Gatsby” film remake rekindled interest in 1920s style, and ostrich feathers add flourish to floral displays. Pin and on television, even the prim Granthams of vintage family wedding photos on ribbons, clothes- “Downton Abbey” have left staid Victoriana for high- line-style, or decorate buffet tables with photos of old- spirited dance clubs - or at least Cousin Rose has. Think time stars such as Douglas Fairbanks, Clara Bow, creamy linens, lawn parties, Jazz Age music. Gilded Buster Keaton, Rudolf Valentino and Greta Garbo. details, and Old Hollywood hair and makeup. Dancing. Designer and illustrator Kris Shoemaker of “The sophisticated beauty and elegance of the Vancouver, British Columbia, creates paper embellish- period is the perfect inspiration for a wedding. The ments and cake toppers for vintage-style weddings, theme allows couples to honor the past and bring this especially sparkly stars, moons and figures of romantic lively age to life in a creative and bold way,” says couples made of high-quality paper and trimmed Marsha Hunt, co-owner with Bridget Connell of Haute with vintage German glass glitter and luxe ribbons. Flower Boutique in Minneapolis. They have incorpo- “I’ve always been drawn to the elaborate Art Deco rated elements of the era into wedding receptions illustrations of Erte and Georges Barbier,” she says. “I both contemporary and traditional, she said. The goal was initially inspired by the song ‘Say It’s Only A Paper is to find “that happy medium between being com- Moon,’ ‘The Great Gatsby,’ and the dream-like photo- pletely poised but also letting loose,” says Shira This photo provided by Jolie En Rose Vintage graphs taken in the 1920s of couples posing on giant Savada, Real Weddings Editor at Martha Stewart shows illustrator and designer Kris Shoemaker’s cardboard moons and stars.” Weddings. 1920s style paper embellishments as a cake top- per that she created for a vintage style wedding. The party The dress Compiling a playlist from the era will get everyone phy for table cards and other signage in the reception Brides might follow the lead of model Kate Moss, in the mood. If it’s within your budget, hire a jazz band space. Create your own, or employ a designer. Suggest who wed musician Jamie Hince in July 2011. Moss with a singer. Use an old-fashioned microphone for that guests also come dressed in Roaring ‘20s style. asked her friend John Galliano to make her a vintage- speeches. To get the dancing started, enlist a few For a summer wedding, a venue with big gardens style wedding dress, and the designer used Zelda friends to show off some simple 1920s moves like the and open space works well for an elegant, Gatsby- Fitzgerald as inspiration. The cream-colored, bias-cut Charleston and the Baltimore Buzz; how-to videos are esque lawn party. Linens, strung lighting and blankets gown featured an Art Deco motif along the bottom, online. Serve swanky beverages popular during on the grass provide an easy, relaxed background in and was embroidered with gold, spangled with gold Prohibition, like mint juleps and cocktails. which guests can feel comfortable, while you add as paillettes. Gowns of the ‘20s featured sequins, fringes On the sweets table, offer petits fours and cakes much luxury as you like with other elements, such as and other embellishments, but the cut was usually embellished with Art Deco designs and edible gold food, drinks and live music. Croquet was the game of simple. Dropped waists and low backs defined the for- leaf, on vintage silver serveware. Consider setting up a the moment back then, but other old-fashioned lawn mal silhouette. Necklines weren’t overworked, and black-and-white photo booth with props including games like badminton or bocce could amuse both most dresses were either sleeveless or given a little feather boas, long necklaces, straw boaters and news- younger and older guests. lacey cap sleeve, evoking the look of a slip dress, boy caps. Silent films projected on a wall might pro- For an indoor wedding, decorate with vintage suit- whether full or tea length. If you’re having a dress vide additional atmosphere. Favors could include sou- cases, globes, gramophones and cameras. Savada rec- made, don’t go for bright white, Savada says. Keep it venir drink glasses, silver cocktail sticks, mini flasks for ommends touches like embroidered handkerchiefs; within the vintage aesthetic - vanilla, ivory, or the the fellows, and stretchy beaded headbands or bead engraved silver pieces, such as lighters and tie clips; palest of pink, canary or blush. strands for the ladies. Instead of a standard guest and those remarkable cars. “They basically cry out to Jeweled headpieces, perhaps with lace, more book, set up a vintage typewriter and a stack of paper be incorporated into someone’s Roaring ‘20-style cele- sequins, rhinestones or feathers, might take the place so that well-wishers can type up messages for the bration,” she says. Hunt and Connell suggest a pleasing of a veil, although Savada suggests brides can do bride and groom. Wind the festivities down, perhaps, palette of blush, peach and ivory, with silver and both. “Pairing a bejeweled headband with a veil is a with a final flourish of metal foil confetti, a la bronze metallics. Add touches of bling with easy, timeless but nostalgic look.” Check the crafts website Luhrmann’s “Great Gatsby” revelries. — AP shimmery materials like charmeuse and voile, gilt- Etsy.com for handmade headpieces and bands. Satin encrusted ribbons, pearls and beading. Glossy black or soft gold or silver slippers, or peep-toed pumps, fin- accents add drama. ish the ensemble. Source dresses on Ebay, where silk, pearl and lace-trimmed originals go for as low as $75. Find lots of reproductions of gowns and flapper dress- es here too, great for bridesmaids. Online, Brides magazine has a slideshow of inspira- tion, with dresses by Jenny Packham, Nicole Miller, Monique Lhuillier and others. Many bridal retailers have good selections of vintage-inspired dresses. Grooms and groomsmen might look at three- piece suits in linen or light-colored wool for summer; for a more casual affair, consider a striped blazer, even a boater style hat, and suspenders. For winter, navy or charcoal-gray wool, or a tuxedo. Bow ties bring the look home, although a necktie in a prep-school pat- tern would also fit the style. And if gentlemen want to take things one step fur- ther, add a pair of two-toned brogues, light-colored oxfords, or patent-leather formal wingtips for the tuxe- do.
Setting the stage This photo provided by Jolie En Rose Vintage shows illustrator and designer Kris Invitations can set the tone with a vintage font - Shoemaker’s 1920s style paper embellishments as a cake topper that she created for a Park Lane, Gatsby, Nite Club and Atlas Regular, among others - and Art Deco details. Use the same typogra- In this July 1, 2011 file photo, British model Kate Moss and British guitarist Jamie Hince pose for photogra- vintage style wedding. — AP photos phers with unidentified bridesmaids, after their wedding in the village of Southrop, England.