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ISO 9001:2008 C E R T I F I E D N E W S P A P E R Gold down on higher shares Business | 17 Thursday 1 January 2015 • 10 Rabial I 1436 • Volume 19 Number 6297 <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1"><a href="/goto?url=http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com" target="_blank">www.thepeninsulaqatar.com </a></li><li style="flex:1"><a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] </a>| <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank">[email protected] </a></li><li style="flex:1">Editorial: 4455 7741 | Advertising: 4455 7837 / 4455 7780 </li></ul>The Peninsula wishes all our readers Doing business to become easier Draft law to enable single-window clearance system gets cabinet nod DOHA: A single-window clearance system in the offing is likely to make doing business in Qatar easier. be a highlight of the simplified rules. draft law incorporat- view to increasing the listing on the Qatari bourse and attracting more foreign investment. requirement for a listed entity, will be incorporated into the law that is on the anvil. Aing the necessary amendments to make company formation and monitoring rules much easier was approved by the State Cabinet yesterday, Qatar News Agency (QNA) reports. The draft has been forwarded to the Advisory Council, which will study and give its recommendations. The draft extensively deals with terms of establishment of public shareholding companies, the launch of initial public offer- ings (IPOs), formation of company’s board of directors and remuneration of board members. Above all, rules governing annual general meetings (AGMs) of listed companies, called in Qatar as general assem- bly, their powers and the capital “The draft has been prepared to cope with latest developments in the realm of business and investment and to simplify company formation procedures,” QNA said quoting the Cabinet. The draft takes into consid- eration international standards, according to which countries are ranked in terms of ‘Ease of Doing Business’, the news agency added. THE PENINSULA To improve its ranking on the global ‘Ease of Doing Business’ Index, Qatar is simplifying the law that regulates formation and supervision of commercial companies. A single-window system where all clearances — including civic and environmental ones — needed to establish a business could be The focus of the draft, according to QNA, is mainly on easing rules regulating the setting up of <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">obtained in </li><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">short time, will </li><li style="flex:1">publicly-traded entities with </li><li style="flex:1">a</li></ul>Palestinians turn to ICC Don’t tamper with khubz weight: Ministry DOHA: The government has warned bakeries against breaching weight-related specifications set for the traditional Arabic bread ‘khubz’ or face action. of millions of riyals a year to bakeries that make these breads. The flour for ‘khubz’ is made available by the government to the bakeries at much cheaper rates. The other kinds of bread and bakery products are sold by the bakeries at uncontrolled prices. The Ministry of Economy and Commerce said it has adopted a tough stance against the bakeries after a massive crackdown on sales outlets, including sweet shops and grocery stores, revealed violations of weight-related specifications of the traditional RAMALLAH: President <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">yesterday </li><li style="flex:1">Mahmoud </li><li style="flex:1">Abbas </li></ul>signed a Palestinian request to join the International Criminal ‘Khubz’ is a dietary staple and a popular append- age to many Arab and Asian meals and being priced at QR1 per packet, it is a favourite food of the common man. <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">Court, seeking </li><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">new avenue </li></ul>for action against Israel after a failed UN resolution to end the occupation. The Palestinians hope ICC membership will pave the way for war crimes prosecutions against Israeli officials for their actions in the occupied territories. The price of the traditional ‘khubz’ that are sold packed in polythene wraps for QR1 a pack, has been controlled by the government for decades. It is because the state provides subsidy to the tune Arabic bread. THE PENINSULA Continued on page 7 But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly hit back, saying the Palestinians have “more to fear” than Israel from the Hague-based tribunal. He cited the Palestinian leader- ship’s links to Hamas, the militant group Israel describes as a terror- ist organisation, which is part of a unity government with Abbas’s Car showroom shut down for violation DOHA: In less than three weeks, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce has shut down the showroom of yet another major foreign car dealer here for taking customers for a ride. the dealer’s outlets revealed that they were repairing and repainting damaged cars and passing them off as new to customers. The Ministry said its inspectors have found many such cars in the company’s show- rooms after customer complaints. As punitive action, the ministry said, it has shut down the agency’s main Dubai celebrated the New Year with a midnight light and sound extravaganza at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower yesterday. The 828-metre tower was lit up with coloured panels as the clock counted down to 2015. The main showroom of Domasco Honda, local dealers of Japanese Honda cars, was ordered shut for a month for violating the consumer protection law. In a statement, the Ministry said surprise raids on Fatah movement. AFP See also page 10 showroom for a month. THE PENINSULA Continued on page 6 THURSDAY 1 JANUARY 2015 <a href="/goto?url=http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com" target="_blank">www.thepeninsulaqatar.com </a>HOME 02 New Year greetings sent to leaders Cabinet okays new fiscal year plan DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani sent New Year congratulation cables to the leaders of friendly countries, wishing them the best of health and happiness and their people further progress and prosperity. DOHA: Qatar will likely have a new fiscal year that will follow the Gregorian calendar (January to December) from 2016. to QNA, the Cabinet examined report of the National Committee for Traffic Safety and its suggestions. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani chaired the Cabinet meeting at Emiri Diwan. final account, borrowing, loaning and investment. to Qatari employees of Qatar Business Incubation Centre. <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">H</li><li style="flex:1">E</li></ul>The draft law that abolishes Law No. 14 of 1987 on imposing fees to obtain certificates issued by the Ministry of Education, is to be referred to the Advisory Council. <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">It also examined </li><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">letter by </li></ul>the minister of economy and commerce on the outcome of the 30th session of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation, which was held last month in Istanbul. Finally, the cabinet reviewed a letter by the minister of labour and social affairs on the outcome of the 31st session of the GCC council for ministers of development and social affairs and the GCC council for ministers of labour, which took place last month in Kuwait. The recommendations of the Advisory Council on this report were also taken into account by the Cabinet. Also, the Cabinet approved a draft law that seeks to replace an existing law (Number 14 of 1987) that regulates the fee structures of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. The draft law basically doubles the fee to QR10 for various certificates issued by the Supreme Education Council, and fixes the fees for the Council’s other services. The Cabinet yesterday cleared a draft law for approval by the higher-ups for implementation to change the financial year from the present April to March to follow the Gregorian calendar. The draft has already been approved by the Advisory Council which also gave its recommendations. At its weekly session yesterday, the Council of Ministers also raised the issue of traffic jams on Doha roads. According to the provisions of the draft law that seeks to change the fiscal year, its provisions would apply to all the government financial units. The Ministry of Finance would be responsible for the management of public funds and the execution of the state’s monetary policy. The bill also featured provisions related to the preparation and implementation of the state’s general budget, government accounts, overseeing the implementation of the fiscal system and the state’s The Deputy Emir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent similar cables to the leaders, deputies and crown princes of friendly countries. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani also sent congratulation cables to the leaders of friendly countries and heads of governments. The cabinet also ratified the minister of education and higher education’s draft decision on determining fees of some services provided by the Supreme Education Council (SEC). According to the draft decision, a fee of QR10 is to be paid to obtain certificates issued by the SEC. The meeting approved the application of Law No. 24 of 2002, on retirement and pensions, In this context, according THE PENINSULA Premier receives message from Iran DOHA: The Prime Minister <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">and Interior Minister </li><li style="flex:1">H</li><li style="flex:1">E</li></ul>Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani received a written message from Iran’s First Vice-President Eshaq Jahangiri on means to enhancing relations in various fields. Iranian Ambassador Mohammed Jawad Asayish delivered it. Woqod to open 13 new petrol stations this year DOHA: Qatar Fuel (Woqod) is gearing up to open 13 new petrol stations across the country this year, including one at Hamad International Airport. technical inspection services (Fahes) for vehicles, Bitumen, LPG, Marine Services, retail stores (Sidra) and projects out- side Qatar. time and efforts for our clients.” Additionally, there are four new technical inspection centres to be constructed in Al Shihaniyah, Al Shemal City, Al Khour and Al Wakra. These centres are currently in the design and approval phases, and are projected to be fully operational during the period 2015-2016. This was announced yesterday by Ibrahim Jaham Al Kuwari, CEO, Woqod. About the projects in design and tendering stages, he said seven new petrol stations will be developed at Smeismah, Al Thameid, Al Thamamah (Al Hadarmah), New Mesaimeer, the Educational City (Bani Hajar), the Educational City (North) and Umm Qarn. These projects are expected to be completed by the end of 2016. WOQOD is also coordinating with the Educational City and Lusail City on the establishment of two new petrol stations in each location, in addition to new stations in the Economic Zones, where discussions and coordination are currently underway. “We are also coordinating with the Ministry of Municipalities and Urban Planning for the comple- tion of procedural requirements in the designation of 25 new locations that are suitable for the construction of petrol stations, with the aim of providing the best and UAE ties reviewed DOHA: The Prime Minister “Work is in progress on 13 new petrol stations in Al Wakra, Al Wajba, Al Jmayliyyah, Al Aqla (Lusail), Al Thakhirah, Al Qotayfah, Al Mesahabiyah, Al Shemal City, New Rayyan, Sodanthel, Fulayhah, Bin Derham, HIA in addition to Woqod fuel station in Saudi Arabia,” Al Kuwari told a press conference at the company’s headquarters. He said some of the projects were almost complete, while oth- ers are in the construction phase; however they are expected to be inaugurated this year. The press conference was held to providing update on Woqod’s current and future projects and plan for 2015-2019. The company has wide areas of operations, including market- ing, transporting and storing of petroleum products and jet fuels, <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">and Interior Minister </li><li style="flex:1">H</li><li style="flex:1">E</li></ul>On retails stores, the CEO said that efforts are underway for the construction of four new Sidra convenient stores at Hamad Hospital, Ascott Tower, Barwa Commercial Center and Barwa City Complex. These projects are currently in the design and approval phases and are expected to be completed during this year. As part of a long-tern strategy, Woqod has announced an expansion plan to establish a network of 100 fuel stations, given the pro- vision of suitable locations, and its network of FAHES inspection centres for vehicles through the construction of new inspection lines at existing stations that are roomy enough to accommodate such lines. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met UAE Ambassador Salih bin Mohamed Al Ameri and discussed relations. Ibrahim Jaham Al Kuwari, CEO, Woqod, addressing a press conference at the Woqod headquarters in West Bay yesterday. SALIM MATRAMKOT Charity builds 433 mosques abroad most convenient and comprehen- sive coverage for the majority of the areas within the country, with special emphasis on Doha City, Al Madari Road, the East-North Road, and other highways,” Al Kuwari said. He also said that expansion works at ten existing fuel stations namely Ain Khaled, Mouayther, Al Tha’ayen, Al Hilal, Bu Faseilah, Al Seiliyah, West Bay, Wadi Al Banat, Mesaimeer East, and Al Gharafa are progressing. Some of these works have been completed, while the remaining are expected to be completed during the year 2015. Commenting on technical inspection centres, he added: “Most recently, we have inaugurated Fahes centre in Wadi Al Banat area and completed the DOHA: The Sheikh Eid Charity built 433 mosques in several countries all over the world in 2014, at a cost of QR31m donated by Qataris. Ali bin Khaled Al Hajri, Head, Project and Foreign Aid Department, Eid Charity, said they built 80 mosques in Sudan and Nigeria besides Mauritania, Pakistan, Yemen, Kenya, Ghana, Senegal, Palestine, <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">works at </li><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">Mesaimeer Fahes </li></ul>inspection center, which is to be inaugurated very soon. These centres are among the most advanced centres in the deployed technologies and one-window service, which conveniently saves THE PENINSULA Somalia, Niger and Togo. QNA THURSDAY 1 JANUARY 2015 <a href="/goto?url=http://www.thepeninsulaqatar.com" target="_blank">www.thepeninsulaqatar.com </a>HOME 04 PM receives Omani minister Premier to open Banana Island resort today First-of-its-kind resort will be operated by Anantara DOHA: The Prime Minister and Interior Minister by Anantara. The resort is on Qatari crescent-shape <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">pool and poolside cabana. </li><li style="flex:1">surfing techniques than at sea. </li></ul>Guests can energise them- selves with laps or a leisurely dip in the 100-metre-long lagoon pool or enjoy the fun at the children’s pool complete with water slides. Guests looking for recreation options on dry land are also spoilt for choice, from tennis, beach volleyball and a fitness centre to an entertainment centre with a nine-hole putting golf course, eight-pin bowling alley and a VIP cinema theatre. Eight dining options offer <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">H</li><li style="flex:1">E</li></ul>aThe eight two-bedroom Over Water Villas and trio of three- bedroom Anantara Over Water Villas offer 360 square metres of luxurious space and a 62sqm personal pool ideal for families and friends. The resort has a marina with 30 berths and a fully equipped dive centre with a practice pool ideal for beginners. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Al Thani will today inaugurate the ‘Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara’, island in the Arabian Gulf, about a 20-minute journey by luxury ferry from Al Shyoukh Terminal in the city’s downtown area or a 10-minute helicop- ter ride directly from Hamad International Airport. The crescent shape of the island provides a natural har- bour framed by an 800-metre- long private beach where guests can relax and swim in the calm, safe waters of the turquoise sea. The 141 luxury guest rooms, suites and villas are designed in Arabian style with signature Anantara touches, including 54 Premier Sea View Rooms, 16 Deluxe Sea View Rooms, eight Sea View Suites, 18 Anantara Suites and 34 spacious Sea View Pool Villas featuring a personal The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani yesterday met Oman’s Minister of Civil Services Sheikh Khalid bin Omar bin Said Al Marhoon and his delegation. Talks dealt with means of enhancing relations. on island. <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">Qatari crescent-shape </li></ul>The resort will be the first of its kind to be operated by Anantara, the company special- ised in resorts and hotels management, and developed by Al Rayyan Hospitality which has developed hospitality projects, including Souq Waqif, London’s Orya Hotel, Salwa Resort, and the hotel and spa at Masila. The ceremony will be attended by Mohammed Al Qahtani, President, Al Rayyan Hospitality, and Sami Ayari, General Manager, Banana Island Resort Doha Water sports range from the relaxing pace of kayaking, pedalos and stand up paddle boarding, thrills of wakeboard- ing, banana boat, triple tube and donut rides, water skiing and jet skiing to luxury yacht cruises and fishing trips. Condolences sent to Malaysia, Indonesia DOHA: The Emir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani yesterday sent cables of condolence to King Almu’tasimu Billahi Muhibbuddin Tuanku Al Haj Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah of Malaysia and President of Indonesia Joko Widodo for the victims of the Malaysian plane that crashed in Java Sea. <ul style="display: flex;"><li style="flex:1">a</li><li style="flex:1">choice of Middle Eastern, </li></ul>Italian and international cui- sines at spectacular locations around the island from the marina, poolside, by the shore- line and on over water decks with tranquil views and soft sea breezes. THE PENINSULA The Deputy Emir H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al Thani sent similar cables to King Almu’tasimu and President Widodo. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister H E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani also sent cables of condolence to President In the resort’s two-lane surf pool, the waves can be controlled to suit different skill lev- els, making it easier to master Widodo and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. QNA Qatar, Oman sign deals DOHA: Qatar and Oman yesterday signed two memorandums of understanding to enhance cooperation in the field of training, development and quality. The Minister of Administrative The Minister of Administrative Development H E Dr Issa Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi and Oman’s Minister of Civil Service Sheikh Khalid bin Omar bin Said Al Marhoon at the event. Development H E Dr Issa Saad Al Jafali Al Nuaimi and Oman’s Minister of Civil Service Sheikh Khalid bin Omar bin Said Al Marhoon signed the agreements deal to enhance cooperation in the exchange of expertise and knowledge through visits and projects. The ministers hailed the distinguished ties which are experiencing rapid development, thanks to both countries’ keenness to further develop them. The ministers said the of expertise, trainers and

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