April 26, 2012

THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012 Issue No. 1416

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150 Fils with IHT

Parliament rejects third annual plan

Staff Writers and Agencies

KUWAIT: The National Assembly rejected a draft bill on the 30 billion dinar ($108 billion) development plan on Wednesday as opposition deputies accused the government of failing to make progress on the major investments it provides for.

The plan, spread over four years until 2014, provides for a series of huge infrastructure projects including a new airport terminal, new oil refinery and hospitals and is aimed at diversifying an economy heavily reliant on oil.

Details of the plan must be voted on each year and parliamentarians rejected the part of the plan for the 2012-2013 fiscal year on Wednesday. There is a separate plan for the budget. Twenty-eight lawmakers voted against the bill, while at least seven abstained and 16 agreed to it.

Government officials say the plan is making progress, pointing to interest from interna-

tional companies for the future large tenders.

The Minister of Works said last month that Kuwait would launch an initial tender for construction of a second terminal at its international airport soon, a project worth around 700-800 million dinars.

Commenting on the issue, MP (Member of Parliament) Marzouq Al-Ghanem described the plan as “meaningless” and a “lie to the people of Kuwait”. For his part, MP Ali AlDiqbasi accused the government of obstructing the implementation of the development plan.

“We are not students of the government nor can its ministers lecture us,” the MP said.

MP Hamad Al-Mattar stated that the selection of ministers is not done in accordance with a specific approach, an action plan or a vision.

Meanwhile, MP Ahmad Lari viewed the plan as a “waste of time for the government, the Parliament and the people.” He suggested that it is presented at the beginning of the upcoming legislative term.

Parliament charges Audit Bureau to look into investments KUWAIT: The National Assembly charged the Audit Bureau on Wednesday to look into details related to the considerable losses in investments of the Social Security Institution abroad, upon a recommendation made by the lawmakers.

The Member of Parliament (MPs) approved recommendation states the bureau is to seek help of two international specialized offices to look into the accounts, criteria and mechanisms of allotting sums for investment, and the distribution of sums invested abroad.

The Audit Bureau is required to present an official report of its findings to the National Assembly within three months.

The vote on this recommendation was approved by 39 MPs whereas 16 abstained. Each of the 55 MPs were called at by name to cast vote.

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France wants 300 UN observers in Syria in 2 weeks

PARIS: France wants to see at least 300 UN observers in Syria within two weeks and will push for a “Chapter 7” resolution at the United Nations unless Damascus complies with the terms of a peace plan by early May, Foreign Minister Alain Juppe said on Wednesday.

Chapter 7 of the UN charter allows the Security Council to authorize actions which can ultimately include the use of military force.

Speaking to reporters after meeting opponents of Syrian President Bashar AlAssad, Juppe said there had to be a rapid

deployment of UN observers as the plan was “extremely compromised”. “This cannot continue indefinitely. We want to see observers in sufficient numbers, at least 300 ... deployed as quickly as possible,” Juppe said, adding that he wanted them in Syria within “two weeks not three months”. UN peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous has said it would take a month to deploy the first 100 monitors.

Juppe said it was “unacceptable” for Damascus to try to dictate which nationalities could take part in the mission.

-Reuters

In his contribution, MP Abdulhameed Dashti billed the plan as “mere rhetoric”, while MP Abdulatiff Al-Omairi squarely place the blame on the doorstep of the government, which according to him is laying hurdles before the plan.

Moreover, MP Osama Al-Munawer went as far as suggesting that the plan can be a subject of interpellation, claiming that the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public Works is one of the “corruption stalwarts.” Deputy Speaker Khaled Al-Sultan argued that the plan has failed to achieve the set objectives, due to a lack of leadership in the previous government.

MP Abdurrahman Al-Anjeri, for his part, opined that the real key to development would be a populist prime minister. “If the situation persists as it is, parliaments will come and go... and generations to come will curse us because we have failed to introduce genuine reforms,” the MP assertively said.

Bayern beats Real Madrid, to play Chelsea in final

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

EU urges Israel to reverse settler outpost decision CAPITALS: The European Union called on Israel on Wednesday to reverse its decision to legalize three settler outposts in occupied Palestinian territory.

“I am extremely concerned about the decision of the Israeli authorities regarding the status of the settlements of Sansana, Rechelim and Bruchin in the occupied Palestinian territory,” said EU foreign policy Chief Catherine Ashton.

“I call upon them to reverse this decision,” she said in a statement.

An Israeli ministerial committee decided Tuesday to legalize the status of the three communities, which were established in the 1990s but did not have Israeli status.

They will join the 120 official settlements across the occupied West Bank that are home to more than 342,000 people.

“The EU has repeatedly called on Israel to end all settlement activity. Settlements are illegal under international law, an obstacle to peace and threaten the viability of a two-state solution,” Ashton said.

The chief EU diplomat said the Israeli decision ran counter to the spirit of an April 11 statement by the Quartet of Middle East peace brokers, the European Union, United States, Russia and United Nations.

The Quartet, she recalled, “expressed concern about unilateral and provocative actions, including continued settlement activity.”

The United States also voiced concern about the decision, saying it was unhelpful to efforts to make peace with the Palestinians. Washington asked the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for “clarification.” -AFP

MADRID: Bayern Munich’s Philipp Lahm (center) vies with Real Madrid’s Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo during the UEFA Champions League second leg semi-final football match Real Madrid against Bayern Munich. Bayern Munich became the first team to advance to a Champions League final and will play Chelsea in the final at Allianz Arena on May 19. Chelsea eliminated defending champion Barcelona a day earlier. - AFP More on 20

KD 1,000 fine for barbecuing at banned locations: Authority

Kuwait 2011 current account surplus jumps 78% KUWAIT: Kuwait’s current account surplus surged 78 percent in 2011 mainly thanks to a jump in exports, the Gulf Arab country’s central bank said on Wednesday.

The current account of one of the world’s top oil exporters booked a surplus of 19.53 billion Kuwaiti dinars (70.3 billion US dollars) in 2011, or 54.8 percent of 2010 gross domestic product, compared to 10.98 billion in 2010, or 30.8 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), it said.

Analysts polled by Reuters had expected Kuwait’s current account surplus to reach 35.2 percent of GDP in

Amnesty says veil bans rob Muslims of jobs, education

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Saudi girls’ school defies clerics with basketball

Police arrest members of a combined group of ACT UP and Occupy Wall Street activists who chained themselves, blocking traffic, at Wall Street and Broadway, near the New York Stock Exchange, on Wednesday, April 25, 2012, in New York. (AP)

Egypt’s actor Adel Imam to appeal jail term for defaming Islam

CAIRO: The Arab world’s most famous comic actor, Adel Imam, will appeal a decision by an Egyptian court to sentence him to three months in jail for insulting Islam in his films and plays, his lawyer told Reuters on Wednesday.

A court found Imam guilty of defaming Islam on Feb. 2 and fined him 1,000 Egyptian pounds ($170) in absentia.

Imam has frequently poked fun at the authorities and politicians during a 40-year career and his more serious films have dealt with the rise of Islamist militancy.

The timing of his case - at a time when Islamists are in the political ascendancy - and his high own profile has raised fears that ultraconservative Muslims, who

swept parliamentary elections, are trying to force their views on society.

“Mr. Adel Imam will appeal to annul the verdict, which was given on the wrong legal basis,” Sawat Hussein, his lawyer, told Reuters.

“My client’s films were certified, not censored, by surveillance authorities before their release to the public.”

The case against Imam was brought by a lawyer with ties to Islamist groups.

Asran Mansour accused the actor of offending Islam and its symbols, including beards and the Jilbab, a loose-fitting garment worn by some Muslims, the Egyptian news portal Ahramonline reported.

More on 17

JEDDAH: A girls’ school in Saudi Arabia has defied a religious ban on female sports by erecting basketball hoops and letting pupils play at break-time, the Saudi daily Al-Watan reported on Wednesday.

Powerful clerics in the conservative Islamic kingdom have long spoken against allowing girls to play sports, with one senior figure saying in 2009 it might lead them to lose their virginity by tearing their hymens.

Saudi Arabia’s austere interpretation of Islamic law prevents women from working, opening bank accounts or having some elective surgery without the permission of a male relative. They are not allowed to drive.

King Abdullah has pushed for women

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to have better opportunities in education and employment and last year said they could vote and run for office in future municipal elections, the only official polls in the monarchy.

The school in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province has now become the first staterun girls school openly to encourage sports, Watan reported, quoting a supervisor as saying it would expend pupils’ energy “in a positive way”.

Private girls schools already offer sports classes.

In recent months Saudi Arabia has faced criticism for having never fielded a woman athlete at the Olympics, with Human Rights Watch calling for it be barred from this year’s London games.

Pakistan PM vows to face contempt verdict in person

2011 and 33.6 percent of GDP this year.

“That increase...was mainly an outcome of the rise in the surplus of the balance of goods,” the central bank said, adding that it soared by 66.7 percent on an annual basis.

It has not yet released 2011 GDP data for the member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) economy.

Growth in the net value of Kuwaiti residents’ assets abroad also accelerated during 2011, the central bank More on 9 said.

South Sudan frees prisoners to defuse tensions

JUBA/BEIJING: South Sudan freed Sudanese prisoners of war on Wednesday in a gesture it hopes will defuse tensions between Khartoum and Juba whose armies have been embroiled in escalating cross-border fighting that has threatened to tip into all-out war. Sitting atop one of Africa’s most significant oil reserves, Sudan and South Sudan have been unable to resolve a dispute over oil revenues and border demarcation since the South gained independence in July. Nearly all oil production has now stopped and the border fighting in contested oil-producing regions has grown more intensive, prompting China, which has economic interests in both countries, and the African Union to push for a diplomatic deal.

“The SPLA (South Sudan’s army) handed over prisoners of war to the ICRC. They were 14 who were captured during the battles of Heglig from April 10-15,” More on 4 Philip Aguer, spokesman for South Sudan’s army, said in Juba.

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France’s Sarkozy rules out deal with far-right

PARIS: French President Nicolas Sarkozy ruled out any deal with the farright National Front of Marine Le Pen, backed by nearly a fifth of voters in a presidential election first round, to give them cabinet jobs or help them win seats in parliament.

An opinion poll showed two-thirds of Sarkozy supporters want him to break with past policy and strike an alliance with the Front after Le Pen’s 17.9 percent score on Sunday made her 6.4 million backers key to a May 6 presidential runoff. Both Sarkozy and Socialist Francois Hollande, who beat the conservative by 28.6 percent to 27.2 percent on the first round and leads opinion polls for the runoff, are striving to respond to the protest vote without angering traditional supporters. Sarkozy said on Wednesday that listening to Le Pen’s backers did not mean he could envisage far-right ministers in a conservative-led government.

More on 5

A Tunisian journalist holds a TV frame on April 25, 2012 during a sit-in outside the theatre municipal in Tunis to protest against the aggressions committed against Tunisian Television journalists. Dozens of protesters had been camped outside the offices of Wataniya since March 2 in the capital Tunis, demanding the “cleansing” of the national broadcaster and jeering at journalists. (AFP)

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ALWATAN DAILY

kuwait

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Parliament rejects third annual plan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Attacking the Minister of Finance Mustafa Al-Shamali, Al-Anjeri accused the minister of covering up bigwigs, while the latter asked him to use proper words, adding that mutual respect should be maintained. Al-Shamali elaborated further by telling MPs that the Parliament is not “Okaz (open fair) market.”Al-Anjeri struck back at the minister, “The promise is under way. If you had enough dignity in your profession, you would have resigned.” In the same context, MP Khaled Al-Tahous remarked that there could be no genuine development under “corrupt leaderships,” adding that most ministers did not even read the plan.Likewise, MP Dr. Faisal Al-Mislem said that the real problem lies in the lack of a political lead-

ership able to implement the plan. “We will introduce constitutional amendments so that the people are empowered to select a prime minister,” the lawmaker pointed out. He revealed that he and a number of colleagues including MPs Abdurrahman Al-Anjeri, Faisal Al-Yahya, Ahmad Lari, Jamaan Al-Harbash and Adel Al-Damkhi will come up with a draft law for Constitutional amendments, so that ministers are stripped off their parliamentary membership. Responding to this preposition, the Minister of Information Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah asserted that the appointment of a prime minister is a prerogative of His Highness the Amir and that successive governments are Constitutional. The minister pointed out that the government is cooperative with the Parliament in discussing the plan.

Parliament Speaker contradicts himself by violating NA bylaw Article 83: MP Al-Ghanim Staff Writer

KUWAIT: In a press release made available to Al Watan, Member of Parliament (MP) Marzouq Al-Ghanim expressed his astonishment at the way an application made for the motion in the National Assembly is dealt with.

The MP Al-Ghanim was referring to the application made by the office of Public Prosecutor to lift the immunity from the members of the Legislative Authority. The MP believes that such request should be dealt with in lines with rules and regulations and that it should be based on the identity of the applicant.

The MP Al-Ghanim was also critical in the way the Speaker of the National Assembly MP Ahmad Al-Saadoun stopped him from talking and discussing the issue which is very important as it is related to lifting the immunity over the controversial issue of breaking and entering the parliament. He noted that he was given the opportunity by the Vice-President of the National Assembly MP Khaled Al-Sultan to discuss the topic however when he began to discuss the issue he was interrupted by the Speaker.

“One would assume that if the MP is given his turn to talk, he would be allowed to speak about the point of order he wishes to discuss, but Al-Saadoun refused to let me continue and thus he violated the National Assembly bylaw Article 83. I can only say that he is contradicting himself when he was an MP demanding that the bylaws are implemented and now that he is the Speaker he himself is violating them,” he explained.

The MP Al-Ghanim also maintains that the Speaker deliberately called the session off after he saw his name listed as one of the intended speakers.

As for lifting the immunity from some of the MPs, MP Al-Ghanim said that some of the MPs have expressed their desire to see the immunity being lifted, adding at the same time the fact that some of the accused have expressed themselves that the immunity should be lifted so that investigation takes its course of action.

KISR sets standards to setup renewable energy technology compound by 2015 Mervat Abdul Dayem Staff Writer

KUWAIT: Kuwait began taking its first steps to setup a compound for renewable energy technology to produce 70 megawatts of power per day in Al-Salmi. The renewable energy projects will produce 20 percent of the power required in Kuwait by 2032, which will turn Kuwait into a country that is advanced in using renewable energy and technology to produce power.

This was announced by the General Manager (GM) of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR) Naji Al-Mutairi Wednesday morning after signing a contract with an international counseling firm that will take part in preparing the engineering and technical standards and specifications to design and operate the compound.

He added that this project will move Kuwait from the phase of depending on one source of power to having multiple sources of power through focusing on renewable energy.

He revealed that the institute had begun earlier to prepare economic, technical, and environmental studies concerning the project. Those studies showed that the climate in Kuwait is suitable for generating power from renewable energy. He went on to say that the whole compound is expected to be ready by 2015, where tenders will be floated through the Central Tenders Committee.

Ministry of Electricity and Power Undersecretary Ahmed Al-Jassar stated that this project is an important step in the path of executing plans concerning experimental solar power stations.

The compound will introduce the new technology to Kuwait and will broaden its spectrum of usage, which allows Kuwait to become advanced in this field. He went on to say that this project has positive economic, environmental, and social effects on the long term, not to mention finding a solution to the growing power consumption that relies basically on crude oil and its derivatives.

No intention to shut Safwan checkpoint: Embassy

BAGHDAD: The Iraqi embassy denied on Wednesday press reports that Baghdad planned to shut Safwan border checkpoint. The embassy said in a statement that the passageway witnessed increasing activity, movement of travelers and commercial exchanges between the Republic of Iraq and the sisterly State of Kuwait. -KUNA

Al-Harbash called for a national dialogue, adding that the country is going through a gray phase; hence development projects should be introduced. “We want to lift Kuwait out of its staggering condition,” the MP elaborated. Correspondingly, MP Adel Al-Damkhi called for a Constitutional amendment that will enable the people to choose a populist prime minister. He added that it is inconceivable that the Parliament votes on the selection of a crown prince, while it cannot do so as far as a prime minister is concerned. In the meantime, the Parliament asked the Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee to speedily compile a report on a draft law for addressing the conditions of Bedoun (Stateless Arabs) and refer it to the Bedoun Committee so that it can be tabled before the National Assembly.

KD 1,000 fine for barbecuing at banned locations: Authority

KUWAIT: Persons who barbecue at banned public locations will be fined 1,000 Kuwaiti dinars, the Director-General of Kuwait Municipality warned on Wednesday.

Ahmad Al-Sebeeh, in a statement to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), indicated that the authority, after realizing that some citizens and residents do not abide by public cleanliness laws because of soft penalties, decided to increase the fine for such a violation from KD 100 to KD 1,000.

There are specific locations for barbecuing in 144 public parks, he said, stressing that grilling is restricted to these places.Municipal teams will monitor such violations, he restressed, urging the nationals and expatriates to abstain from inflicting damage on public properties, such as the seaside green spots, with such random barbecuing, dumping of ashes on plants and littering. Beautification of the public spots costs the State millions of dinars for entertainment and wellbeing of the people, thus these properties must not be target of such harmful acts and conducts. -KUNA

Municipality committee proposes recommendations on Rahya fire Environment Committee calls for securing Rahya tires dump yard in collaboration with Fire Directorate Staff Writer & Agencies

KUWAIT: The Environmental Committee in the Municipal Council proposed on Wednesday to annul a previous recommendation, dated to June, 2007, concerning auction of used tires in Rahya area south of Jahra.

Chaired by Member of Municipality Jenan Bushehri, the committee recommended that the municipality take all necessary measures to ensure safety in Rahya area, and provide all necessary conditions to maintain safety and tranquility in the area, including a recommendation to coordinate with the municipality and the Fire Department regarding other equipment and material found at the site.

Bushehri added that the committee also called for proposing tenders for eliminating the damaged, used, or ruined tires to be stored and packaged in accordance with the requirement of environmental standards as a first step prior to initial operation of waste recycling factories. She also noted that a request was submitted to the Environment Public Authority (EPA) to review and establish a report on Rahya area regarding environmental effects or consequences resulting from storing tires, and further the committee also called for a study on the site of the fire, including any effects on the soil or air.

On the other hand, the Environment Committee at the Municipality Council recommended during a workshop regarding the Rahya tires dump yard, the cancellation of the council’s decree issued in 2007 concerning an auction to sell used tires. It also asked the Kuwait Municipality to secure the site through assigning guards, in addition to taking necessary steps to prevent other possibilities of fire in collaboration with the Fire Directorate.

Head of the Environment Committee at Municipality Council Jenan Bu Shahri asked the municipality to float tenders to shred and stock up the tires at

the Rahya dump yard based on environment terms.

She explained that the committee had asked the EPA to prepare a study about the environmental status at Rahya, in order to determine the consequences of stocking up the tires for a period that exceeds eight years, and to determine the environmental impact of the fire. This study should include the effect of the fire on water, air, and soil. The authority must also set a plan to rehabilitate the burnt site and to contact the Industry Public Authority (IPA) to take effective steps to grant licenses for the recycling of the used tires.

Moreover, Municipal Council member Abdullah Fehad stated that everyone is shrugging off the responsibility of the fire; especially that carelessness resulted in the fire. He added that the council has made numerous recommendations regarding Rahya fire issue and a vote will be held on them. He stressed that the public criticize the Municipal Council because its officials do not want to be held responsible, and remarked that the IPA does not want to take over the Rahya site. He noted that burying the tires is not a logical solution.

Furthermore, Municipal Council member Abdul Kareem Seleem mentioned that handling used tires is challenging only in Kuwait; especially that the issue took political dimensions. He revealed that he does not wish to hand over the Rahya site to the IPA, because there is a company that made a request to invest in the project. He stressed that the Environment Department at the municipality should ensure safety procedures at the site, then float tenders and projects to take advantage of the tires.

Municipal Council member Ashwaq Al-Modaf believes that the Fire Directorate has handled the fire at Rahya disastrously, since it hailed soil on the fire, which damages the soil.

Municipal Council member Abdullah Al-Kandari said that the government failed to handle the situation effectively, and remarked that tires are discarded in the United States, while the government in Kuwait fails to discard two million tires. He stressed that the council is willing to allocate the Rahya area; especially after companies from Saudi Arabia and Qatar asked to invest in the tires in Kuwait. He asked the Fire Directorate to secure the site through installing firefighting equipment in case other fires break out in the area.

Iranian threats are rejected: American Ambassador Jameel W. Karaki Staff Writer

KUWAIT: Retired Lieutenant General, Ahmed Al Rejaib, asserted on the strength of the bilateral relationships between Kuwait and South Africa in all aspects during his participation in a celebration held by the embassy in Kuwait on the occasion of the Freedom Day, on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at Salwa Al Sabah Hall.

On his part Van Tonder, the South African Ambassador to Kuwait expressed, his pride in the citizens of South Africa who contributed in forming a free and democratic society, noting that their achievements have been achieved based on democracy.

Tonder also expressed his gratitude for the Kuwaiti investments in the tourism and infrastructure sectors, adding that his country is facing many challenges in the process of ongoing transformation, reconstruction and the development of his country especially in dealing with the phenomenon of inequality in society.

Meanwhile, the American Ambassador to Kuwait, Matther H. Tueller rejected the Iranian threats to American ships in the Gulf and explained that the US Navy and the international forces have been present in the international waters for a period of time due to its responsibility for the security of the Gulf, stressing that any threat against it won’t be acceptable.

As to the Iranian condition related to reducing the enrichment of uranium to lift sanctions, he said that the Security Council has constantly asked Iran to disclose its nu-

Van Tonder, the South African Ambassador to Kuwait and his wife during a celebration held by the embassy in Kuwait on the occasion of the Freedom Day, on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at Salwa Al Sabah Hall. (Al Watan)

clear program and to change its policy and approach, especially since there are indications to increase its nuclear activities for the operation of nuclear reactors.

Regarding what is published about the request of some Iranian lawmakers to create a new governorate that includes the UAE islands, he hoped that Iran would commit to the good relations with its neighbors and to stop intervening in the affairs of other countries.

Comminuting on the situation in Syria, he expressed his happiness regarding the new step taken by the United Nations on increasing the numbers of observers. “Unfortunately there’s a tragedy in Syria everyday happening to the civilians.”

Mustafa Bahya, the Tunisian Ambassador to Kuwait described the visit of the Tunisian President to Mohamad Al- Monsef Al-Marzouki as successful, where it had a political significance due to its synchroni-

zation with the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of establishing the diplomatic relations between Kuwait and Tunisia About the Kuwaiti investments in Tunisia and whether the country requested a loan from the Kuwaiti Fund for Development, he explained that there is a policy in Tunisia that stresses on not requesting for loans to maintain a balanced fiscal policy and to rely more on interior resources and attracting foreign direct investments.

In terms of attracting tourists, he noted that Tunisia received eight million tourist in 2010 compared to a 40 percent reduction in this number during 2011, adding that his country is going to organize a promotion to attract more Kuwaiti tourists to Tunisia.

In his commentary of what happened in Tunisia regarding clashes with protestors, he clarified that some protests were banned based on the request of the merchants and residents, where it’s a main street, however, the civil society didn’t accept this ban, where later on apologies were presented for those who were affected”.

On the sides of the event, Sudan’s Ambassador to Kuwait, Ibrahim Marghani appreciated the quick response of Kuwait by sending an aircraft to extinguish the fires erupted in Heglih area due to attacks initiated by the south.

He also described the Southern officials as provocateurs, noting that Sudan gave them 85 percent of oil (founded and financed by Khartoum, yet later the Southern government “closed the door and didn’t give Khartoum the 15 percent,” adding that it is no more a financial matter but dignity.

Disabilities organizations conclude 3-day workshop KUWAIT: Representatives from several disabilities organizations in Kuwait concluded a 3-day series of workshops led by Dr. Richard Welch, an American lecturer at Georgia State University on Tuesday, April 24.

This was stated in a press release issued Wednesday.

The workshop was held at the Center for Child Development and was co-sponsored by the United States Embassy and the Ministry of Information’s Office of Foreign Media; representatives of both participated in the workshop.

Participating disabilities organizations included; Al Nibras School for Special Needs, the Center for Child Evaluation and Teaching, the Kuwait Association for Learning Differences, Kuwait Association for Down’s Syndrome, Kuwait Society for the Guardians of the Disabled, the Public Authority for the Disabled, Training Gate International, Kuwait Society for the Handicapped, and Abeer2.

During the workshop, the participants studied a step-by-step process to develop public relations campaigns for their individual organizations. More broadly, the workshop focused on helping the disabilities community develop effective strategies to communicate with the broader Kuwaiti society about the important work being done by these NGOs. One participant commented that the workshop was invaluable as it taught her “how to be precise and targeted” with her outreach. A Ministry of Information official remarked that it was “a great pleasure to participate in this workshop with such outstanding representatives of Kuwaiti civil society who are truly dedicated to helping Kuwaitis with disabilities.”

Group photo of representatives from several disabilities organizations in Kuwait on Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

ALWATAN DAILY

KUWAIT

THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

Parliament charges Audit Bureau to look into investments KUWAIT: The National Assembly charged the Audit Bureau on Wednesday to look into details related to the considerable losses in investments of the Social Security Institution abroad, upon a recommendation made by the lawmakers.

The Member of Parliament (MPs) approved recommendation states the bureau is to seek help of two international specialized offices to look into the accounts, criteria and mechanisms of allotting sums for investment, and the distribution of sums invested abroad.

The Audit Bureau is required to present an official report of its findings to the National Assembly within three months.

The vote on this recommendation was approved by 39 MPs whereas 16 abstained. Each of the 55 MPs were called at by name to cast vote.

In response to some remarks by MPs, Minister of Finance Mustafa Al-Shamali said “the state of affairs of the institution’s investments is sound, good, and constantly monitored by the bureau. This is an important issue, and this is a suitable measure, and we have no objections in this regard. We shall cooperate with the bureau on the report.” The minister meanwhile urged careful choice of phrase when handling this issue. “Terms such as investigation could prove counter-productive, though we do recognize fully the National Assembly’s right to request the

Kuwait funds renovation of key road in Lebanon BEIRUT: Representative of Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) Nawaf Al-Dabbous inspected on Wednesday the construction side of a main road linking the district of Al-Hazmiah just east of Beirut and the resort town of Sofar, located approximately in the middle of the Beirut-Damascus highway.

The project is aimed at facilitating the flow of traffic between the capital and several regions, namely Mount Lebanon, the eastern Bekaa Valley and neighboring countries, said Al-Dabbous in remarks to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA).

KAFED is funding basic sections of the venture, such as Al-Sayyad roundabout, located at the eastern entrance of Beirut, where tunnels and causeways were being built, as well as Camille Chamoun Boulevard, also a key road intersection on the outskirts of the capital.

Large parts of the project will be finished in the end of the summer and the whole venture will be executed by the year-end, he added.

The venture also includes renovation of a five-km-long section between AlSayyad roundabout and the town of Al-Hazmiyeh, located on hills overlooking the capital. Three bridges and relays will be built in Al-Fayadiah district, where the ministry of defense is located.

Moreover, it is also aimed at building other tunnels and causeways farther eastward, in addition to beautifying the market of the resort town of Bhamdoun, a favorite recreational destination for many Kuwaiti tourists.

Totally, the project is aimed at rebuilding a road stretching for 24 kms, at a projected cost of 146 million US dollars. KFAED has offered Lebanon 17 loans to Lebanon since 1966 valued at $550 million. -KUNA

Audit Bureau to conduct any form of action.” We must make sure we keep to most fitting terms, and that efforts are steered towards a clear destination and objective, he said.

The National Assembly also charged its Environment and Nuclear Energy Committee to look into the Mishref Plant dossier. It also asked the committee to look into the Ahmadi gas leak dossier.

There was also discussion of conducting a survey of areas suffering inadequacy of services and public utilities and inadequate infrastructure and the drafting of a remedy program and inclusion of sufficient budgets in the state’s budget. -KUNA

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Amir orders renovation of Grand Mosque

FILE - Picture obtained from the internet shows State owned Grand Mosque located in Sharq.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah gave orders on Wednesday to renovate the Grand Mosque, located in Sharq.

Deputy Minister of Amiri Diwan Af-

fairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah stated that the Amir had given orders to the Amiri Diwan to take charge of necessary repair and renovation of the State Grand Mosque, on basis of forecast reports by relevant technical committees. -KUNA

Capital Governor meets Chinese Guangdong vice Governor GUANGZHOU, China: Kuwait Capital Governor Sheikh Ali Al-Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah held on Wednesday an extended meeting with the Chinese Guangdong Vice Governor Zhao Yufang.

During the meeting, Yufang thanked Sheikh Ali for his welcomed visit to Guangdong, hoping it would give impetus to bilateral ties.

She added that the exchanging visits between senior officials of both countries help achieve the desired

development in economic, commercial and industrial cooperation. Yufang said work in the Kuwait-Chinese joint petrochemical complex in Guangzhou is in full swing, hoping it would be a real translation of the strong Kuwaiti-Chinese relations. She underlined that Guangdong has made great stride in the economic sector in the past years, noting that the province contributes 13 percent of the total Chinese income.

Yufang pointed out that Guangdong economy is

ranked third on the list of the strongest economies among Chinese cities.

For his part, Governor of the Capital Sheikh Ali said talks with the senior officials of Chinese government revealed deep desire to bolster bilateral relations and cooperation, especially in the fields of energy, trade and industry.

Sheikh Ali praised the level of Kuwaiti-Chinese relations in the past few years. -KUNA

Developing psychiatric care in Kuwait ‘vital’, says official KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health held on Wednesday the 4th Kuwait Psychiatric Conference to further develop the psychiatric care and treatment.

In the opening speech of the event delivered by Health Ministry Undersecretary Omar Al-Sayed Omar, on part of Health Minister Dr. Ali Al-Obeidi, the official said that the three-day event would focus on educating and spreading awareness on the psychiatric health of children.

He noted that the psychological well-being of the parents would reflect positively on their children, adding that psychiatry was an ever developing field of medicine that required practitioners to further expand their skills.

On her part, head of the conference Dr. Haya Al-Mutairi said in her speech that psychiatric facilities in the Arab world were in need for development and integration to provide the best medical care available.

The conference is witnessing the participation of medical officials from Saudi Arabia and the UK, Al-Mutairi indicated, adding that workshops would be held on the sideline of the conference to provide latest treatment within the psychiatric field. -KUNA

E-government’s site ranks 50th on UN list: CAIT

LONDON: Kuwait’s e-government website is ranked 50th on a global scale, according a UN report listing the top sites on a global scale, said an official from the Kuwaiti Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT) here Wednesday.

CAIT’s Bashayer Al-Awwad told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on sideline of a conference on human development that the event, sponsored by the agency, Kuwait’s Civil Service Commission (CSC), and Microsoft, would focus on the role of IT in shaping skills of leaders and managers in government institutions.

She noted that the main theme of the conference would focus on the transformation to the digital cloud technology which would enable improving government services online.

Internet security is also to be touched upon during the event, said the Kuwaiti official, hoping that CAIT would contribute to the development of IT services in Kuwait. -KUNA

Kuwaiti delegation satisfied with Qatar visit DOHA: The activities and field visits by members of the Kuwaiti delegation, which ended its official visit to Qatar Wednesday, were satisfactory and allowed transparent discussion to take place on many issues of mutual interest and stressed the strength of bonds between the two nations and people, head of delegation Ahmad Barrak Al-Haifi said.

Assistant Undersecretary for Parliament Activities Al-Haifi recalled the meetings with Qatari Shura Council Speaker Mohammad Al-Khulaifi, with Deputy Premier and State Minister for Cabinet Affairs Ahmad Al Mahmoud, and Kuwaiti Ambassador Ali Slaiman Al-Haifi. The meetings tackled important issues and yielded positive outcome, he said.

Such official visits, he noted, boost joint action within the GCC region, and the efforts to guarantee this particular visit’s success on the part of Qatari authorities and Kuwaiti Embassy are praiseworthy.

The Kuwaiti delegation included representatives for the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Cabinet. -KUNA

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ALWATAN DAILY

regional

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Syrian forces shoot up bus, UN derided BEIRUT: Syrian security forces shot dead four civilians on a bus in the northern province of Idlib on Wednesday, dissidents said, as international pressure built on Damascus to honor UN-backed ceasefire pledges to order soldiers and tanks back to barracks.

In the latest violence to undermine the flaky 13-day-old truce, the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) said the four were killed at a checkpoint on the main road from Aleppo to the capital.

It said an elderly man was killed in heavy fighting in the southern city of Deraa, crucible of the revolt against President Bashar Al-Assad that flared after Arab uprisings elsewhere.

A woman who visited Douma on Tuesday night said the largely anti-Assad town east of the capital had been under constant shelling and was without water, power or mobile phone signal.

“There was bombardment all night. Artillery and tanks. We didn’t sleep at all. Not for a moment,” the woman told Reuters in neighboring Lebanon. “Most residents have gone down to live on the ground floor because most of the second and third floors have been hit.”

There was no mention of the bus shooting or bombardment in Syria’s rigidly controlled media or comment from the authorities in Damascus, which has barred most foreign journalists since the revolt started more than 13 months ago.

Former UN Secretary-General and ceasefire broker Kofi Annan told the Security Council on Tuesday that Syria had failed to withdraw weapons from population centers in violation of the terms of the April 12 truce.

The latest violence, occurring two days after 31 people were killed in Hama city im-

A handout image released by the Syrian opposition’s Shaam News Network, on April 25, 2012, shows smoke ascending from burning buildings in the area of Al-Qusoor in Homs province. (AFP)

mediately after UN ceasefire monitors left the area, may prompt more diplomatic pressure on Damascus.

“The situation in Syria continues to be unacceptable,” Annan said, according to a tran-

Jordan denounced for charging journalist AMMAN: International rights groups denounced Jordan on Wednesday for charging a news website editor with anti-regime incitement after publishing a report on a graft probe into a 7 billion US dollar housing project.

The detention of Jamal Muhtaseb, chief editor of Gerasa News, “is a serious violation of Jordanian law and freedom of information,” said Paris-based media watchdog Reporters Without Borders.

“His reporting of this corruption case has been in the public interest,” RSF said on its website.

For its part, the New-York based Human Rights Watch warned that Amman “risks earning a reputation for repression and intolerance” by arresting Muhtaseb.

Muhtaseb was arrested and charged on Monday after a report on his website quoted an unnamed lawmaker as claiming “lower house deputies had received royal directives not to indict a former minister for alleged graft.”

Last year, the government opened an investigation into the huge housing project for low-income citizens after calls by parliamentarians to probe suspected corruption.

The military state security court has remanded Muhtaseb in custody for 14 days pending trial, and he faces 15 years in jail if convicted.

Gerasa News reporter Sahar Muhtaseb, sister of Muhtaseb, was also charged and arrested in the same case but later released on bail of 5,000 Jordanian dinars ($7,000/5,300 euros).

“Using a state security court to try a journalist is completely illegal under Jordanian law and is indicative of the government’s nervousness and determination to suppress freedom of information in this af-

fair,” RSF said.

The court’s jurisdiction includes crimes that are deemed harmful to Jordan’s internal and external security.

“We call for (Muhtaseb’s) immediate release and the withdrawal of all the charges,” RSF added.

Christoph Wilcke, senior Middle East researcher at HRW, said “Jordan cannot claim to be making democratic reforms while prosecutors hunt down journalists doing their job.”

“Jordan’s parliament should eliminate penal code articles that punish non-violent speech offences, and in the meantime, authorities should instruct prosecutors to stop bringing charges under those articles.”

HRW said Muhtasab’s case is the latest in a series “in which people have faced charges for speech or demonstrations deemed critical of the government,” including a group of pro-reform demonstrators and a outspoken former lawmakers. It added that this is “a pattern that undermines the credibility of Jordan’s reform efforts.”

“Jordan’s talk of reform is meaningless as long as the law deprives citizens of meeting and speaking freely, especially about politics and their leaders,” Wilcke said.

The powerful Islamic Action Front, the political arm of Jordan’s Muslim Brotherhood, warned that “freedoms are retreating” in the kingdom.

“Targeting journalists must stop and the state security court must be dissolved,” the IAF said on Wednesday, demanding the government release Muhtaseb.

Jordan’s Centre for Defending Freedom of Journalists and the country’s press union have condemned Muhtaseb’s detention.

And journalists held a sit-in to demand Muhtaseb’s immediate release. -AFP

Hunger striker’s appeal rejected by Israeli court

JERUSALEM: Israel’s Supreme Court has rejected an appeal by a Palestinian prisoner who has been refusing food for more than seven weeks to protest being held without charge, his lawyer told AFP on Wednesday.

Hassan Safdi, 31, was arrested on June 29, 2011 and has been held without charge under a procedure called administrative detention, which means a prisoner can be held for renewable periods of up to six months.

He has been on hunger strike since March 5.

Safdi’s lawyer Osama Maqbul told AFP he had lodged an appeal against the administrative detention order with an Israeli military court last month but it had been rejected. A second appeal, this time to the Supreme Court, was also rejected, Maqbul told AFP, with the court urging Safdi to end his protest.

“His appeal was rejected yesterday by the Supreme Court in Jerusalem, which ratified the detention order based on the secret file which consists of intelligence information,” he said.

“The court advised him to eat because he will not be released.”

After 52 days on hunger strike, Safdi had lost 30 kilograms (66 pounds) and was “in critical condition,” Maqbul said, indicating that the prisoner was suffering kidney problems. Safdi is one of eight Palestinian prisoners who have been refusing food for an extended period of time, with six of them now being held in the hospital wing of Ramle prison near Tel Aviv.

“Six prisoners who started their hunger strike several months ago have been placed in the medical ward of the Ramle prison and are on a drip,” Sivan Weizman, spokeswoman for the Israel Prisons Service said.

Five of them are being held in administrative detention, and two -- Bilal Diab and Thaer Halahla -- are now entering their 57th day on hunger strike.

Over the past week, another 1,350 prisoners have begun an open-ended hunger strike to protest against the conditions in which they are being held.

There are 4,699 Palestinians being held in Israeli jails, of whom 319 are in administrative detention, according to Prisoners’ Club figures. -AFP

script. “The Syria authorities must implement their commitments in full and a cessation of violation in all its forms must be respected by all parties.” He also noted reports that security forces were targeting people who had met

members of the fledgling UN monitoring mission, which is meant to end a conflict in which the United Nations says at least 9,000 people have been killed.

Damascus says 2,600 of its security person-

nel have been killed by the anti-Assad armed groups that operate in parts of the country of 23 million.

Speaking to the 15-nation Security Council, Annan stressed the need to get “eyes and ears on the ground”, although so far there are only 15 unarmed monitors in Syria out of a planned final team of 300 to be deployed under the acronym UNSMIS. Reasons for the slow deployment are not clear.

Activists say even the minimal UNSMIS presence has led to a drop in the daily death toll, but UN peacekeeping chief Herve Ladsous said it would take a month to deploy the first 100 monitors - a timeline that drew derision from many Syrians.

“It takes them a month to arrive? Are they coming on horses?” asked a resident of Homs, a city which has endured sustained army shelling. He declined to give his real name.

Annan said Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Al-Mouallem had written to him saying that “the withdrawal of massed troops and heavy weapons from in and around population centers is now complete and military operations have ceased”.

However, Annan’s team also cited satellite imagery as evidence that tanks are lurking out of sight on the outskirts of cities, and even Syria’s ally Russia voiced concern.

“If this is the case, if the promise in the letter has not really been carried out, that would mean it is a breach of the promise they made on Saturday,” Churkin said. “I’m certainly going to bring it to the attention of Moscow.”

France said it still supported Annan’s peace plan but could not do so forever unless Syria implemented it fully. -Reuters

Libya bans religious, tribal or ethnic parties

TRIPOLI: Libya, preparing for elections in June, has banned parties based on religion, tribe or ethnicity, the government said on Wednesday, and a new Islamist party viewed as a leading contender signaled it would challenge the decision.

National Transitional Council spokesman Mohammed Al-Harizy said the council passed the law governing the formation of political parties on Tuesday evening. “Parties are not allowed to be based on religion or ethnicity or tribe,” he told Reuters.

He did not make clear how this would affect a political party formed in March by Libya’s Muslim Brotherhood and other Islamists. The new party was expected to make a strong showing in the election, the first since

last year’s overthrow of Muammar Gadhafi in a NATO-backed popular uprising.

The head of the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Development Party said the NTC needed to make it clearer what it meant by banning religious parties. He said this would cause controversy in conservative Libya, whose population of six million is made up almost entirely of Sunni Muslims.

“This kind of clause is only useful in countries where there exists many religions, not in Libya where most people are religious Muslims,” Sawan told Reuters.

“This law needs to be reviewed by the NTC and if it’s not changed, we would have to protest it.”

Libya’s NTC has already indicated that the

Top Shiite cleric offices in Iraq attacked

BAGHDAD: Unknown people have attacked the offices of two of Iraq’s top four Shiite clerics in the central city of Najaf with sound bombs, a security official there said on Wednesday.

“The office of Grand Ayatollah Bashir Al-Najafi in central Najaf city was attacked with a sound bomb on Tuesday evening,” the official said, adding that “there was an attack with a sound bomb that targeted the office of Grand Ayatollah Ishaq Al-Fayadh on Sunday evening.” Both are members of the marjaiya, which is composed of the four top Shiite clerics here.

The attacks, which came after the interior ministry said it had withdrawn “surplus” guards from the clerics, caused material damage but no casualties, the official added.

“The ministry withdrew the surplus of bodyguards ... because there are some personalities who have more than they need,” the interior ministry said on Wednesday. Sadr Al-Din Al-Qubanchi, a leading Shiite cleric, said during a meeting with Al-Najafi that “it is natural that the marjas are targeted, because they follow the true path,” said the head of Qubanchi’s office, Abdul Latif AlAmidi. “It is not possible to keep silent anymore and we wait for the marjas to condemn these actions and we demand the government to do its job,” QAl-ubanchi was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, Al-Amidi quoted Al-Najafi as saying the target “is not Bashir Al-Najafi or Ishaq Al-Fayadh; the target is the religion and the (Shiite) sect,” and that “we urge our brothers to call on the officials to do their job.” -AFP

Israel military chief says Iran undecided on bomb

JERUSALEM: Israel’s military chief toned down the rhetoric over Iran’s nuclear programme on Wednesday, describing the Iranian leadership as “very rational” and unlikely to take the decision to build a bomb. Speaking to the left-leaning Haaretz newspaper, Lieutenant General Benny Gantz said Iran was systematically approaching the point at which it would be able to decide on whether to build a bomb, but had not yet made that decision. “It still hasn’t decided yet whether to go the extra mile,” he said. So far, Israel and Washington do not believe that Tehran has actually taken the decision to develop a nuclear bomb, a decision which would require the ability to quickly produce weapons-grade uranium.

“In my opinion, he would be making a huge mistake if he does so, and I don’t think he will want to go the extra mile,” Gantz said, referring to Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei who is the final authority on all national issues.

The Iranian leadership was made up of “very rational people,” he said, and the international regime of hard-hitting sanctions was “starting to bear fruit.”

Defence Minister Ehud Barak was on Wednesday also taking a somewhat softer line on Iran, saying it had “not yet decided to manufacture atomic weapons” also suggesting the sanctions could work. “If the Americans, and the Europeans and we ourselves are determined, there is a change of stopping the Iranians before they acquire the atomic bomb.” Israel and much of the West suspect Iran is using its civilian nuclear programme as a cover for a weapons drive – a charge which Tehran vehemently denies. Israeli officials have repeatedly warned that a nuclear Iran would pose an existential threat to the Jewish state, and have refused to rule out a pre-emptive strike to prevent it from happening. -AFP

country will be run in accordance with Sharia, though the exact place of Islamic law in the legal system will be settled only once a new constitution is written after elections.

Political analysts have said the Muslim Brotherhood is likely to emerge as Libya’s most organized political force and an influential player in the oil-exporting state where Islamists, like all dissidents, were harshly suppressed during the 42 years of Gadhafi’s dictatorial rule.

Islamists have performed strongly in postuprising elections in Tunisia, Egypt and Morocco since October and they are also likely to do well in Libya, a socially conservative country where alcohol was already banned before the 2011 revolution. -Reuters

South Sudan frees prisoners to defuse tensions

Sudanese prisoners of war board International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) vehicles following their release in South Sudan’s capital Juba, on April 25, 2012. (AFP)

JUBA/BEIJING: South Sudan freed Sudanese prisoners of war on Wednesday in a gesture it hopes will defuse tensions between Khartoum and Juba whose armies have been embroiled in escalating cross-border fighting that has threatened to tip into all-out war.

Sitting atop one of Africa’s most significant oil reserves, Sudan and South Sudan have been unable to resolve a dispute over oil revenues and border demarcation since the South gained independence in July. Nearly all oil production has now stopped and the border fighting in contested oil-producing regions has grown more intensive, prompting China, which has economic interests in both countries, and the African Union to push for a diplomatic deal.

“The SPLA (South Sudan’s army) handed over prisoners of war to the ICRC. They were 14 who were captured during the battles of Heglig from April 1015,” Philip Aguer, spokesman for South Sudan’s army, said in Juba.

Aguer was referring to the Heglig oilfield which the SPLA had captured earlier this month, but later withdrew from, under international pressure. Juba has since accused Sudan’s armed forces of bombing its territory, a claim Khartoum denies.

South Sudan’s government and its army have said the deal had been brokered by Egypt during its foreign minister’s visit to both countries about 10 days

ago, and Aguer said the prisoners would be flown back to Khartoum via Cairo.

He said the men were mostly Sudanese from the north as well as one South Sudanese who he said had been recruited as a mercenary, adding the Sudanese army was holding at least seven SPLA members as prisoner of war.

“We have requested that they be released if they have not been killed,” he said. There was no immediate comment on the prisoners from Khartoum.

Clashes appear to have ebbed following weeks of cross-border fighting after Sudanese Foreign Minister Ali Ahmed Karti said Khartoum was ready to resume talks on security issues, a day after President Omar Al-Bashir had ruled out negotiations.

Earlier, residents of Bentiu, about 80 kilometer (50 miles) from the contested border, said the area had come under attack from Sudanese fighter jets, saying they feared their dusty town might be the next target in the conflict.

The African Union urged both sides to resume talks, which have collapsed several times, to strike a deal within three months or face a binding ruling.

The AU’s Peace and Security Council issued a seven-point roadmap late on Tuesday that called on both sides to cease hostilities within 48 hours and called for the “unconditional” withdrawal of troops from disputed areas. -Reuters

ALWATAN DAILY

WORLD

thursdAY, april 26, 2012

France’s Sarkozy rules out deal with far-right PARIS: French President Nicolas Sarkozy ruled out any deal with the far-right National Front of Marine Le Pen, backed by nearly a fifth of voters in a presidential election first round, to give them cabinet jobs or help them win seats in parliament.

An opinion poll showed two-thirds of Sarkozy supporters want him to break with past policy and strike an alliance with the Front after Le Pen’s 17.9 percent score on Sunday made her 6.4 million backers key to a May 6 presidential runoff.

Both Sarkozy and Socialist Francois Hollande, who beat the conservative by 28.6 percent to 27.2 percent on the first round and leads opinion polls for the runoff, are striving to respond to the protest vote without angering traditional supporters.

Sarkozy said on Wednesday that listening to Le Pen’s backers did not mean he could envisage far-right ministers in a conservative-led government.

“There will be no pact with the National Front,” he told France Info radio, saying there were too many issues on which the parties disagreed to imagine giving the party cabinet posts.

“There will be no National Front ministers, but I refuse to demonize men and women who in voting for Marine Le Pen cast a crisis vote, a vote of anger, a vote of suffering and a vote of despair. I have to listen to their message and take them into account, and not think it’s time to hold my nose.”

France holds a parliamentary election in June and Le Pen, whose party has no seats in the outgoing legislature, hopes to capitalize on the surge in her vote in the presidential contest.

Hollande told France 2 television he would not make concessions to the far right but he did want to show he had understood voters’ fear and anger about factory closures.

The Socialist, who has a 10-point lead over Sarkozy in voting intentions for the runoff, said that if elected, he

Pakistan PM vows to face contempt verdict in person PARIS: Pakistan’s embattled Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday vowed to appear in person to face the verdict in a contempt of court case that could see him jailed and thrown out of office.

The Supreme Court will rule on Thursday whether Gilani is guilty of contempt for refusing to write to the authorities in Switzerland to ask them to re-open corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari. The charges carry a maximum jail sentence of six months and conviction could lead to Gilani being disqualified from office.

“I will appear before the court tomorrow,” the PM told a cabinet meeting in Islamabad on Wednesday.

“We are satisfied with the input given by our lawyers and we are also satisfied with the input by the Attorney General.”

He did not say whether he would quit if he is convicted.

The Swiss shelved the cases against Zardari in 2008 when he became president and a prosecutor in Switzerland has said it will be impossible to re-open them as long as he remains head of state and is immune from prosecution.

Gilani insists that Zardari has full immunity. But in December 2009 Pakistan’s Supreme Court overturned a two-year political amnesty that had frozen investigations into Zardari and other politicians.

Zardari and his late wife, former premier Benazir Bhutto, were suspected of using Swiss accounts to launder about 12 million US dollars allegedly paid in bribes by companies seeking customs inspection contracts in the 1990s. -AFP

express their anger by voting for Marine Le Pen,” Hollande said.

“Regarding redundancy plans, I want us to have measures that can protect and reinforce our industry,” he said, without going into detail. “I will not allow this string of closures, that has been put off until after the election, to take place.”

Stemming decline

FILE - A supporter (right) sticks campaign posters of France’s incumbent President and right-wing ruling party Union for a Popular Movement (UMP) candidate for the French 2012 presidential election, Nicolas Sarkozy. (AFP)

would try to prevent a series of industrial layoffs which he said were being deliberately held back until after the election.

“I hear the anger. I see the workers who are wondering about the future of their jobs, who are fighting against outsourcing, who do not accept the redundancy plans, who

Insane diagnosis based on ‘fabrications’: Breivik OSLO: Confessed mass killer Anders Behring Breivik on Wednesday slammed a psychiatric report that declared him insane as based on “evil fabrications” meant to portray him as irrational and unintelligent.

“It is not me who is described in that report,” the right-wing extremist, who admitted killing 77 people in bomb and shooting attacks on July 22, said in court.

A second psychiatric examination found Breivik sane. The five-judge panel trying Breivik on terror charges for the attacks will consider both reports.

Breivik admits to the bombing of Oslo’s government district that killed eight people and a subsequent shooting massacre at a Labor Party youth camp that left 69 people dead, most of them teenagers.

He claims the attacks were “necessary” and that the victims had betrayed Norway by embracing immigration.

If found guilty, Breivik would face 21 years in prison, though he can be held longer if deemed a danger to society. If declared insane, he would be committed to compulsory psychiatric care.

After listening to testimony describing the horrific injuries of the bombing victims, Breivik showed no remorse, saying if anyone should apologize it was the governing Labor Party. He said he had hoped they would change policy on immigration after his attacks.

5

“But instead they continue in the same direction, so the grounds for struggle are unfortunately even more relevant now than before July 22,” Breivik said.

Sounding irritated, the 33-year-old Norwegian accused the two psychiatrists who declared him psychotic of deciding on the diagnosis prematurely, saying their

judgment was clouded by their emotional response to the attacks.

“They lack expertise in evaluating violent political activists,” Breivik said.

Earlier Wednesday, victim’s relatives sobbed in the courtroom as forensic experts presented autopsy reports of the victims, including two passers-by who were

Norwegian anti-Muslim fanatic Anders Behring Breivik speaks with a member of his defence team Tord Jordet in the courtroom in Oslo April 25, 2012. (Reuters)

torn to pieces by the explosion. Breivik was expressionless.

A 26-year-old man who was hit by debris on the street outside the building and hospitalized for three weeks after the bombing recalled that he didn’t immediately realize that he had been injured.

Eivind Dahl Thoresen testified that it was only when he rushed to help another victim that he realized something was wrong with him, too.

“The way he looked at me: ‘Are you going to help me? Look at yourself,’” Thoresen told the court.

Thoresen said he then saw blood pumping out of his left arm. His jeans were soaked with blood. He sat down and cried for help as panic started to set in.

Two people provided first aid, bandaging his wounds with clothes that Thoresen was carrying in a bag. Thoresen’s lawyer showed the court a picture of the grim scene, taken by one of the men who helped him. Thoresen was on the ground, grimacing in agony, his white T-shirt stained by blood.

“I felt alternately cold and warm,” Thoresen said. “At that point I was sure I would die.”

He was taken to a hospital where doctors surgically removed shards from his arms and legs. He had another operation just a few weeks ago and still walks on crutches. -AP

Malawi vows to allow diplomats to work freely PARIS: Malawi’s new President Joyce Banda vowed Wednesday to allow foreign diplomats to work freely, seeking to improve donor ties strained under the late leader Bingu wa Mutharika.

Banda spoke as she named career diplomat Bernard Sande as the new ambassador to Britain, one day after London resumed full diplomatic ties with Malawi and ended a year-long diplomatic feud.

“I assure the British prime minister of my commitment to improving Malawi’s economic and governance situation and to assure him that... all envoys accredited to Malawi will operate freely without obstruction,” she said.

Britain’s previous envoy Fergus CochraneDyet was booted from Malawi when a leaked diplomatic cable showed he had accused Mutharika of “becoming ever more autocratic and intolerant of criticism”. London responded in

kind. Donors have also suspended hundreds of millions of dollars in aid to Malawi in concern at Mutharika’s governance.

Banda, who took office two days after Mutharika’s death on April 5, has already urged major donors to restore their support.

The suspension of aid is one factor behind Malawi’s crippling foreign currency shortages, which has made it difficult for the country to import enough fuel to meet its needs. -AFP

Murdoch denies seeking favors from UK leaders PARIS: Media baron Rupert Murdoch tried on Wednesday to downplay his influence on British politics, saying in his first appearance at a press ethics inquiry he had never asked a prime minister for anything.

His testimony on oath at the Leveson inquiry in London came a day after claims emerged during evidence from his son James that a minister leaked details to Murdoch’s News Corp. about a bid for control of pay-TV giant BSkyB. The 81-year-old told British lawmakers last year that he had meetings with a string of British leaders including Prime Minister David Cameron, but on Wednesday Murdoch said he wanted to “put some myths to bed.”

“I’ve never asked a prime minister for anything,” Murdoch told the judge-led inquiry sitting at the Royal Courts of Justice, as he discussed ties going back as far as premier Margaret Thatcher in the 1970s.

Murdoch also rejected “untrue” rumors that he was unhappy with Cameron for ordering the inquiry following the phone-hacking scandal that closed down his News of the World newspaper in July last year.

But the fallout continued from the documents that News Corp. released to the inquiry on Tuesday, with culture minister Jeremy Hunt saying he would make a statement to parliament to rebuff calls for his resignation.

Emails and texts apparently showed that Hunt’s office leaked information to US-based

News Corp. about its bid for full control of the highly profitable BSkyB. The bid collapsed in July last year due to the hacking row.

Hunt, who is lead minister for the Olympic Games which open in London on July 27, was charged with the decision on whether the takeover should be allowed to go ahead.

“I am going to be making a very, very determined effort to show that I behaved with total integrity,” the minister told reporters as he left his home early Wednesday.

Cameron’s spokesman insisted the premier had full confidence in Hunt but the premier was expected to face a grilling at Wednesday’s Prime Minister’s Questions session in parliament.

Murdoch’s testimony at the inquiry is his highest profile appearance in Britain since he told a parliamentary committee last year that he had meetings with Cameron and former premiers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown.

Murdoch was also attacked with a foam pie at that hearing.

Giving evidence on Tuesday, James Murdoch, the deputy chief operating officer of News Corp., said he had discussed the proposed takeover with Cameron at a 2010 Christmas party.

Cameron has previously denied having had any “inappropriate conversations” with James Murdoch at the party.

Transcripts of emails and text messages between Frederic Michel, News Corp’s public af-

fairs executive, and Adam Smith, special advisor to Hunt, appeared to reveal close collaboration over how to counter the deal’s opponents.

In one text published on the inquiry’s website, Michel wrote: “Think we are in a good place, no?”, to which Smith replied: “Very yes.

Jeremy (Hunt) happy.”

Britain’s newspapers suggested the Murdoch family were exacting revenge after the government distanced itself from News Corp. in the wake of the hacking scandal.

“Murdochs turn tables on Cameron and Hunt,” said the Financial Times on its front page, while the Daily Mail carried the headline: “Revenge of the Murdochs”.

In Tuesday’s session, James Murdoch also repeated his assertion that he did not know about the extent of phone hacking at the 168-year-old News of the World.

The Sunday tabloid was forced to shut down after a wave of revelations that its staff illegally accessed the voicemail messages of a murdered teenage girl and the families of dead soldiers as well as dozens of celebrities.

The scandal claimed the jobs of two senior policemen with ties to the News of the World, and Cameron’s media advisor, a former editor of the tabloid.

Murdoch still owns The Sun, The Times and the Sunday Times in Britain. News Corp also owns the Wall Street Journal and Fox News in the United States. -AFP

Sarkozy, the first sitting president to lose the first round of a re-election vote, is being punished for economic malaise, rampant unemployment and his brash presidential style, which many voters dislike.

Making his own gesture to disgruntled factory workers on Wednesday, Sarkozy said it was important to realize that the impact of financial crisis was much harsher for people working in industry than those in secure civil servant positions. Sarkozy and Hollande battled for the blue-collar worker vote in their election campaign, but opinion polls show many in that group flocked instead to either the far right or hard left.

Hollande is citing Le Pen’s vote to fuel his push to add pro-growth clauses to Europe’s budget discipline pact. He said he would at once start talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on the need for a greater growth focus.

“I will renegotiate the treaty, Mrs Merkel knows that,” he told TF1 television late on Tuesday. “And if the French give me their backing, my first trip will be to confirm to her that the French have voted for a different kind of Europe.”

The risk of a revolt against Berlin’s emphasis on deficitcutting over promoting economic growth was highlighted by the collapse of the Dutch government in a row over budget cuts.

“There is a cry of distress against a Europe that is not going in the right direction. It needs to be able to drive us towards the future rather than being all about austerity,” Hollande said on Wednesday. -Reuters

Pakistan tests nuclearcapable ballistic missile PARIS: Pakistan successfully test fired a nuclearcapable intermediate range ballistic missile on Wednesday, the military said, less than a week after India test launched a long range missile.

The exact range of the missile was not revealed, but retired General Talat Masood, a defence analyst, told AFP intermediate range ballistic missiles could reach targets up to 2,500 to 3,000 kilometers (1,550 to 1,850 miles) away - which would put almost all of arch-rival India within reach. On Thursday India test fired its long range Agni V missile, which can deliver a one-ton nuclear warhead anywhere in China.

“Pakistan today successfully conducted the launch of the intermediate range ballistic missile Hatf IV Shaheen1A weapon system,” Pakistan’s military said in a statement. India and Pakistan - which have fought three wars since independence from Britain in 1947 - have routinely carried out missile tests since both demonstrated nuclear weapons capability in 1998.

Pakistan’s most recent missile test came last month with the launch of the short-range nuclear-capable Abdali, while in April 2008 it tested the Shaheen II, or Hatf VI, missile with a range of 2,000 kilometres.

Wednesday’s missile, which landed in the sea, was a version of the Shaheen-1 with improvements in range and technical parameters, the military said, and can carry nuclear and conventional warheads.

“This is part of Pakistan’s program to develop nuclear and missile deterrence. It has a series of missiles in its inventory. This is perhaps the longest range missile in its program,” retired general Masood told AFP. “The whole object is essentially India-centric while India’s own program is directed towards China. Pakistan is engaged in improving its missile system as India continues to increase its capability.”

Director General Strategic Plans Division Lieutenant General Khalid Ahmed Kidwai congratulated scientists and engineers on the successful launch, and the accuracy of the missile in reaching the target. He said the improved version of Shaheen 1A would further consolidate and strengthen Pakistan’s deterrence abilities.

Pakistan’s arsenal includes short, medium and long range missiles named after Muslim conquerors.

India’s missile test last week brought a muted international response, with China downplaying its significance, insisting the countries were partners not rivals, and Washington calling for “restraint” among nuclear powers. This was in sharp contrast to the widespread fury and condemnation that greeted North Korea’s unsuccessful test launch of a long-range rocket on April 13. -AFP

6

ALWATAN DAILY

OPINION

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Pragmatism should dominate our minds not mere caution Fuad Al-Hashem

I

n a reply to a comment made by some people over the participation of MP Shuaib Al-Muwaizeri in the recent majority MPs meeting, MP Shaye Al-Shaye said that the minister had called him and asked him to take part in the event “as a Kuwaiti citizen not as a minister”. According to Al-Shaye, he approved the minister’s participation based on such an idea.

Now let us see how many Kuwaiti citizens are in the country. According to the Civil Service Bureau the number of Kuwaiti nationals have reached 1, 700, 000 people.

So, if those people for the sake of the argument phoned MP Al-Shaye, I am sure that he would receive them all because of this particular principle in which he strongly believes in. Of course, we have to be realistic about this and admit that that was not the true reason behind the whole affair.

We know that there were different reasons all together. Minister Al-Muwaizeri took part in the event in his official capacity as a minister. Leaked information strongly suggests that. The minister’s warnings and observations are not meant to be made during an unofficial capacity.

This is alright but the issue here is the time and place the minister sought to deliver the message. My concern is not the ideas and ideologies Al-Muwaizeri entertains as a citizen. My concern is what Shuaib Al-Muwaizeri says as a minister.

As it turned out the minister was keen to address the

The minister’s warnings and observations are not meant to be made during an unofficial capacity.

issue of national security carefully and deliberately. Accordingly, one of the lines he had stressed on was “the issue of the national security of Kuwait would be compromised if Bashar Al-Assad’s regime was toppled.”

As a citizen, Al-Muwaizeri is in no doubt a decent and honest person. He is really down to earth and a Godfearing man. The problem here is that the minister AlMuwaizeri who had taken part in the meeting was over loaded with recommendations.

Let me remind minister Al-Muwaizeri who seems to be aware of certain but baseless fears and anxieties regarding the security of the country. It was not a long time ago, during the early 1990s when our ally the United States entered Kuwait and liberated us from the Iraqi invasion and then after that did away with the regime of former president Saddam Hussein ending his nearly four decades of power and brutal rule.

The entire group of leading figures in the former regime were all put on trial and punished one way or the other. The entire army is now controlled and ruled by either the Iranians or the Syrians. All this is happening while we here in Kuwait are enjoying peace and security.

The Muslim Brotherhood Movements in Kuwait and Egypt

In fact, we are thoroughly enjoying peace and quiet and the needed security so much so that some had broken into the National Assembly.

Others say that churches should not be built and some say that religious places should be under close scrutiny.

Not to mention of course the number of parliamentary interpellations conducted recently. This surely suggests that the country enjoys healthy freedom and that despite all nearby disturbances, conflicts and disputes in neighboring countries, there was never a direct impact on Kuwait and its people.

If this is happening when Iraq is bordering our country, so surely we should have no fear at all when the country in concern is Syria whom we have no borders with.

Problems were already there when the former regime of Colonel Qadhafi ended. The same thing goes for the former regime of Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak.

Again, in Yemen, there were demonstrations and armed fighting as in Libya, but again we never felt that the security and safety of Kuwait was seriously compromised. I would like the minister to imagine a message from a Syrian who has been in hellish condition for

many months and found out that the minister prefers that Assad’s regime would be removed from power because there is fear and anxiety on his part that the security and safety of the country would be compromised. Surely, the issue, among other things, of killing innocent people, children, women and elderly people would be raised.

Perhaps, the Syrian citizen would also say something to the effect that it would be unfair for the lives of 25 million Syrians to be sacrificed for the benefit and convenience of a few criminals ruling the country for many years with unmatchable brutality. Caution and pragmatism go hand in hand. I am sure you agree.

I shall now move to one brief news that I found to be extremely sad. The new recruits in the Israeli army are now busy throwing canned food over the fences separating them from the Syrian borders near the Golan Heights.

The soldiers are feeding soldiers in Brigade seven and 10 because they were abandoned by the top officer in the army as the latter are busy designing and planning how to kill more and more innocent people of Syria.

One Israeli soldier managed to take a shot of some of the Syrian soldiers as they were pointing out to their mouth gesturing that they were hungry and they needed food desperately.

This war criminal Bashar Al-Assad is fully preoccupied with killing and massacring his own people and then the Islamic Republic of Iran is fully endorsing him and his actions against the civilians! How bizarre!

T he d e velo p m e nt pla n

The movement in Kuwait did not even call for observing the performance of the executive authority or public expenses unlike the movement of Egypt which called for many things such as restricting large properties.

Khalil Ali Haydar

Gover nment

Nat io n al A ssem bl y

T

he Muslim Brotherhood Movement has been opposing two things for decades. Although the movement was the first to call for applying them both. The readers might bbbe surprised through discovering that the movement in 1952 had asked for assigning a president for Egypt wherein the very president can maintain the chair all his life. They called for such an issue before it occurred in any Arabian country. On September 16th, 2012- two months after the July Revolution- the movement submitted a draft constitution naming it the “Islamic draft constitution for Egypt”. The constitution consisted of 103 articles and the constitution named the parliament as a national assembly. According to the constitution the MP at that time represented the whole nation and not only with his electoral constituency. And MPs elected to represent the nation for five years.

The constitution indicated that people have the right to resist authorities if authorities could not achieve success for the citizens and the oppressed. Article 25 says that the MPs elect one of them as a president to the country and the president can maintain the chair all his life. The parliament also has the right to elect a prominent figure to hold the position of president even if such a figure is not an MP. The movement opposed other issues such as socialism especially the confiscating of lands and huge estates from landlords. The Muslim Brotherhood in Syria supported certain principles of socialism therefore a leader of the movement had published a book by Damascus University in 1959 about supporting some socialist principles.

The title of the book was “Socialism of Islam” and the book was published in Egypt many times.

In 1952 a researcher close to the movement prepared a research by the title “The Muslim Brotherhood and the Egyptian Society” and one of the prominent personalities of the movement had supervised preparing the research which was conducted as a university seminar. The researcher said people will get surprised when they discover that the movement was the first to call for restricting property in which such a step can be considered as one of the most important reform project at the time of the research. He added saying that the late leader Al-Banna called for that by the newspaper of the movement before 1948. The researcher unveiled that the leader said “Our Islamic instructions urge us to re-consider the property system in Egypt. As well as decreasing the huge property of people but the owners of such a huge amount of property should get convenient compensation in addition to encouraging owners of small projects to develop their projects in order to enable the poor to feel that they have something in the country and distributing the government property to the poor as well”. What about the Muslim Brotherhood Movement in Kuwait? The late Kuwaiti citizen Abdulaziz Al-Mutawwa established the first group for the movement in Kuwait in 1947 and it was similar to a bureau at that time after that it was changed into a society. Falah Al-Mudairees wrote a book about the movement but the movement did not call for putting a constitution to the country at that time. They did not even talk about freedom of faith, thinking or the right of establishing unions and societies although the movement in Egypt asked for such things. The movement in Kuwait did not even call for observing the performance of the executive authority or public expenses unlike the movement of Egypt which called for many things such as restricting large properties.

Mohmmed Thallab

mthallab@alwatan.com.kw

Why have we called for lifting immunity?

Dr. Waleed Al-Tabtabaie

W

e agreed with members of the Majority Bloc to approve the government’s request for lifting the parliamentary immunity of the MPs who were accused of storming the headquarters of the National Assembly on November 16th, 2011. Therefore, MPs voted for lifting immunity in the last parliamentary session.

However, we approved lifting immunity for many reasons. Such as that the MPs did not commit any crime by entering the headquarters of the parliament at night as MPs were practicing in national political activities.

The MPs also entered the building because security individuals blocked all ways to the parliament and assaulted some demonstrators and activists as a re-

The other thing is that the former government and its corrupt media sources attempted to show such a step as a dangerous crime. They also tried to fabricate stories against the MPs and youths who entered the parliament. sult MPs and many other youths rushed towards the parliament. The MPs and youths entered the parliament just to access the building safely and they were advised by some security leaders to head to the parliament to be more secure.

The other thing is that the former government and its corrupt media sources attempted to show such a step as a dangerous crime. They also tried to fabricate

stories against the MPs and youths who entered the parliament. For such reasons we decided to visit the fair Kuwaiti judiciary to finalize this issue and to disclose all the facts.

As MPs, it is not good for us to protect ourselves with the parliamentary immunity and let tens of youths down wherein the youths who participated in entering the parliament were sent to jail. We don`t

like to let youths face their fate at courts alone. Just because they don`t have parliamentary immunity.

The last thing is that this case can be considered as a new test to the Kuwaiti judiciary to prove being fair and independent which will never be subject to any pressures. We look forward to witnessing a further success by our fair judiciary through this test.

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views

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Euro zone’s backlash whiplash James Saft Reuters

I

t’s not simply an austerity backlash in the euro zone; it is a policy backlash, as everyone appears to blame everyone else for a host of overlapping and conflicting policies which clearly aren’t working.

A series of political and monetary ructions are showing that it is very difficult to predict with any confidence what path Europe will choose, much less who will lead it there or even how the euro zone will be constituted and organized.

All of this argues for increased risk premia on euro zone assets, a conclusion duly enacted on Monday by financial markets. Little surprise, given developments: Conservative French President Nicolas Sarkozy came second to Socialist Francois Hollande in a first round election over the weekend, and is expected to lose a May sixth runoff, leaving France likely led by a man who aims to renegotiate the European fiscal pact to make it more growth-friendly. Sarzoky’s hopes are now pinned on wooing enough of the nearly 18

The common denominator here is clearly some measure of revulsion at the prospect and impact of fiscal austerity, and not without some cause. percent of voters who opted for far-right, antiimmigration candidate Marine Le Pen. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte and his cabinet tendered their resignation after his coalition was unable to convince the anti-immigration, antieuro Freedom party to sign on for the budget cuts needed to hit EU targets.

On the same Sunday, May sixth, that France returns to the polls Greece is to hold an election, with the largest number of seats expected to fall to the New Democracy party, whose leader Antonis Samaras is pledging lower taxes, of all things, and to call a halt to across-the-board wage and pension cuts, expecting to make up the shortfall through better collections. Magic beans have thus far not been mentioned.

The common denominator here is clearly some measure of revulsion at the prospect and impact of fiscal austerity, and not without some cause. Austerity as it is being practiced, with nation-states expected to slim down without

recourse to a weakening currency but instead propped, inefficiently, by the ECB and, insufficiently, by the promise of collective action, is managing at the same time to both stifle growth and make the economy dependent on ECB pain relief.

It is not quite as simple as that. What makes the future path of events in the euro zone even more difficult to forecast is the mass support being won by fringe parties, some of which share antipathy to the euro and immigrants but some of which seem simply eccentric.

Even in staid Germany, the architect of fiscal austerity, things have taken a turn towards the bizarre, where the amorphous Pirate Party came third in a national opinion poll, behind only Angela Merkel’s ruling conservatives and her rival Social Democrats.

The Pirates, whose loose platform concentrates on issues of freedom of speech and freedom of the Internet, recently attracted censure

When credit cards go social

Barclaycard is also promising to publish its own P&L statement for the card, showing how much money it’s making from interest payments, from late fees, and from interchange fees.

Felix Salmon Reuters

T

here’s a new credit card out there, called Barclaycard Ring, which manages the rare feat of being a good, solid financial product even as it’s also incredibly gimmicky. It’s being branded as “the first ever crowd-sourced credit card” - a financial product “built on a community” which, by the looks of the stock photography on the website, is full of incredibly happy, healthy, outdoorsy types who live only in bright sunshine. You don’t just apply for this thing, you “join the conversation”.

Which is not to say you shouldn’t apply. This card has an eight percent APR, and no penalty APR. You miss a payment? You default on some other credit card debt? Your APR stays at eight percent. For “revolvers” - people carrying a balance - this has got to be one of the cheapest credit cards out there, and certainly one of the least dangerous. The fee schedule is the one place where you don’t find gimmicks: no 0% APR balance transfers (with three percent up-front fee hidden in the small print), no hugely complicated reward program you’re never going to use, no annual membership fee which you have to mentally amortize against the perceived value of all those hypothetical rewards.

I hope and trust that the idea of a card without a penalty APR will catch on. Under new regulations, credit-card companies aren’t allowed to apply a new penalty APR to the entire balance being revolved anymore; they have to apply it just to new purchases - and they have to pay that high-rate balance down first. As a result, penalty APRs aren’t nearly as profitable as they used to be. And when you do introduce a card with no penalty APR, it becomes incredibly easy to make apples-to-apples comparisons between cards: you should just go for the one with the lower rate.

Barclaycard is also promising to publish its own P&L statement for the card, showing how much money it’s making from interest payments, from late fees, and from interchange fees.

That’s going to be interesting, when it starts being published in the next few months. It says that any profit over and above its own reasonable hurdle-rate expectations will then be rebated back into the “community” somehow, although the exact mechanism here is unclear. The general idea seems to be that if the card members want something like onshore card servicing, then they’ll be given the choice to essentially pay for it, out of the excess profits that the card is rebating back to them.

At the same time, watching a big bank try to be all cool and down with the social kids can be rather like watching your father try to rap. The Twitter feed is embarrassing enough, but the sponsored posts are much worse. For instance: companies who “get” social media are “are the ones that are leading the fold and have good futures ahead of them”, says BrainFoggles, who seems to have been paid to write that by something called Dweeb Media, which specializes in “creating conversational blog post campaigns”.

And when I spoke to Barclaycard’s Paul Wilmore, I was far from convinced when he tried to sell me on the idea that if people with a Barclaycard Ring feel as though they’re part of a community, they’re going to be less likely to default on that card. That might be true with credit-union credit cards, where people really are part of a pre-existing community. But I doubt that the group of people with this Mastercard rather than that one will ever cohere into something real enough to change collective behavior by 200-300bp, as Wilmore is hoping.

For the representative of an exercise in radical transparency, Wilmore was also surprisingly reticent on some pretty basic issues. For instance, what’s Barclaycard’s profit margin going to be on this card? That number is going to be public, but he wouldn’t even give me a hint. Or, why do you need to become a cardmember before being able to read either the official cardmember agreement or the shorter summary agreement? Why aren’t those documents freely available on the card’s website, for people to read before they apply for the card?

Wilmore did tell me, quite proudly, that Barclaycard has filed no fewer than 14 patents around this card, which scared me a little: I’m not a fan of the idea that financial innovations can or should be patented.

Insofar as there are good ideas here, I want to see them broadly adopted, but if anything these patents seem designed to discourage anybody else from trying out interesting products in this space.

In a sense, then, I wish that Barclaycard had just released a simple no-annual-fee, no-rewards, no-penaltyAPR card and left it at that. I fear that the gimmicky social side of Barclaycard Ring is going to overshadow the fact that underneath its trendy exterior it’s actually a perfectly good product. Even if, as someone in financial media, I will admit to looking forward to those P&L statements.

Felix Salmon is the finance blogger at Reuters. The opinions expressed are his own.

FILE - A building of Swiss bank Credit Suisse in Zurich, Switzerland, March 12, 2012. (AP)

when a leading member compared the party’s rise to that of the Nazis, a blunder for which he has since apologized.

Clearly, we are in choppy, if not tremendously deep, waters, making it all the more difficult to predict how things will play out.

Also of interest, and concern, is the growing, if not new, rift between how the ECB believes it should be left to get on with its job and how politicians across the euro zone seem to think things ought to work.

Hollande has called on the ECB to cut rates and to begin to lend directly to governments, a step the bank is by charter forbidden to take.

Officials from Spain’s Economy Ministry have called publicly on the ECB to increase its purchase of bonds.

“The success of the next phase of the crisis response will hinge on Europe’s willingness and ability, together with the European Central Bank, to apply its tools and processes

7

creatively, flexibly and aggressively to support countries as they implement reforms and stay ahead of markets,” US Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner told the IMF at its recent meeting. The IMF also pressured the ECB to be more active.

Little of this sits well with the ECB, which probably ultimately will be forced to act in support if events spiral badly, but which surely would do so reluctantly and quite possibly be both a day late and a euro short.

ECB council member and Bundesbank chief Jens Weidmann turned his fire in the opposite direction in a speech in New York on Monday.

“More of the same will not take us anywhere,” Weidmann said. “The analgesic we administer comes with side effects. And the longer we apply it, the greater these side effects will be, and they will come back to haunt us in the future.”

Weidmann is right: he is being asked to do the impossible, and being asked to do it often by people who are only making his job more difficult and the results of ECB intervention less beneficial.

The only sensible and predictable actors seem to be those who, looking at the scene, are selling euro zone assets.

James Saft is a Reuters columnist. The opinions expressed are his own.

Cancer by the numbers

FILE- Lindfors opposes a measure approved by the state Legislature earlier this month, that would require health facilities performing mammograms to notify patients with dense tissue that they may want to receive additional screenings. (AP)

People’s discomfort with the findings stemmed largely from faulty intuition: if earlier and more frequent screening increases the likelihood of detecting a possibly fatal cancer, then more screening is always desirable.

John Allen Paulos Project Syndicate

I

t is difficult to communicate medical risk to a large audience, especially when official recommendations conflict with emotional narratives. That is why, when the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) in 2009 presented its guidelines for breast cancer screening, which recommended against routine screenings for asymptomatic women in their 40’s and biennial, rather than annual, mammograms for women over 50, the public responded with confused fury.

The key to understanding this response is to be found in the nebulous zone between mathematics and psychology. People’s discomfort with the findings stemmed largely from faulty intuition: if earlier and more frequent screening increases the likelihood of detecting a possibly fatal cancer, then more screening is always desirable.

If more screening can detect breast cancer in asymptomatic women in their 40’s, wouldn’t it also detect cancer in women in their 30’s? And, if so, why not, reductio ad absurdum, begin monthly mammograms at age 15?

The answer, of course, is that such intensive screening would cause more harm than good. But striking the proper balance is challenging. Unfortunately, it is not easy to weigh breast cancer’s dangers against the cumulative effects of radiation from dozens of mammograms over the years, the invasiveness of biopsies, and the debilitating impact of treating slow-growing tumors that would never have proven fatal.

The USPSTF recently issued an even sharper warning about the prostate-specific antigen test for prostate cancer, after concluding that the test’s harms outweigh its benefits. Chest X-rays for lung cancer and Pap tests for cervical cancer have received similar, albeit less definitive, criticism.

The next step in the reevaluation of cancer screening was taken last year, when researchers at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy announced that the costs of screening for breast cancer were often minimized, and that the benefits were much exaggerated.

Indeed, even a mammogram (almost 40 million are given annually in the US) that detects a cancer does not necessarily save a life.

The Dartmouth researchers found that, of the estimated 138,000 breast cancers detected annually in the US, the test did not help 120,000-134,000 of the afflicted women. The cancers either were growing so slowly that they did not pose a problem, or they would have been treated successfully if discovered clinically later (or they were so aggressive that little could be done).

A related concern is measurement. Since the patient’s duration of survival is calculated from the time of diagnosis, more sensitive screening starts the clock sooner. Survival times can thus appear longer, even if the earlier diagnosis had no real effect on survival.

Naturally, individual cases dictate which tests and treatments are best, but an additional concern about frequent screenings is the problem of false positives.When one is looking for something relatively rare (whether cancer or terrorists), it is wise to remember that a positive result is often false. Either the “detected” pathology is not there, or it is not the sort that will kill you.

Consider the following hypothetical example. Assume that the screening test for a certain cancer is 95 percent accurate, meaning that if someone has the cancer, the test will be positive 95 percent of the time. Next, assume that if someone does not have the cancer, the test will be positive only one percent of the

time. Finally, assume further that 0.5 percent of people - one of every 200 - actually have this type of cancer. If your doctor tells you that you have tested positive, does this mean that you are likely to have the cancer? Surprisingly, the answer is no.

A little arithmetic shows why. Suppose that 100,000 screenings are conducted. On average, 500 people will have the cancer.

Since 95 percent of them will test positive, there will be, on average, 475 positive tests. Of the 99,500 people without cancer, one percent will test positive, yielding 995 false positives out of 1,470 positive tests. In other words, even if you tested positive for the cancer, the probability that you actually have it is only about 32 percent.

That answer is decidedly counterintuitive and hence easy to reject. Most people do not think in terms of probabilities other than “50-50” and “one in a million.” But, whatever the probabilities, the fact remains that there will generally be a high percentage of false positives when screening for rare conditions.

Moreover, the patients who receive these faulty diagnoses will usually receive further treatments, which often will have harmful consequences.

The “availability heuristic” - a pervasive cognitive bias caused by people’s tendency to estimate the likelihood of a phenomenon by how easily an example of it comes to mind routinely clouds the issue. People relate much more readily to a friend dying of cancer than they do to statistics about strangers suffering from the consequences of testing.

But the bottom line is that the ongoing reevaluation of cancer screening is evidence-based. When it comes to policymaking, decisions must be based on facts and argument, not anecdotes and stories, however compelling those narratives may be.

John Allen Paulos is Professor of Mathematics at Temple University and the author of Innumeracy and A Mathematician Reads the Newspaper.

8

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Abu Halifa 2371 7656 Ahmadi 2398 0304 Ardiya 2488 1273 Bayan 2538 7762 Dahar 2383 0500 Dahiya 2256 0855 Dasma 2253 1917 Fahaheel 2391 2959 Faiha 2255 2693 Farwaniya 2471 1977 Ferdous 2489 0583 Fintas 2390 4388 Hawalli 2264 1116 Jabriya 2531 5855 Jahra Ind. Area 2457 5565 / 2458 7392 Jahra North 2455 2295 Jleeb Al Shouyoukh 2431 1234 Keifan 2483 2839 Kheitan 2472 2590 Mina Abdullah 2326 1144 Nugra 2261 6662 Omariya 2474 2160

Ambulance

Central Adan Amiri Hospital Da’iya Fahaheel Farwaniya Farwaniya Jahra Mubarak Al Kabir Sabah Salmiya Shuaiba

23940600 / 23941455 22422366 22510854 23919098 24883000 24725149 24570583 25311437 24815000 25739011 23261927

Private Hospitals

Al-Rashid Hospital Dar Al-Shifa Hospital Hadi Clinic London Hospital Mowasat Hospital Salam Hospital

Qadsiya 2257 4386 Qurain 2542 3772 Rabiah 2474 2160 Rawda 2256 0058 Riqqa 2394 1958 Rumaithiya 2562 4123 Sabah Al-Salem 2551 7229 Sabahiya 2361 5619 Salhiya (Kuwait City) 2242 7157 Salmi 2457 6576 Salmiya 2572 6950 Salwa 2562 6950 Shamiya 2484 5953 Sharq 2244 2466 Shuaiba Ind. Area 2326 1789 Shuwaikh 2481 3726 / 2484 4842 Sulaibekhat 2487 6555 Sulaibiya 2467 0672 Sulaibiya Ind. Area 2467 2728 Surra 2531 2220 Tayma’a 2457 1700 Wafra 2381 0412 Waha 2455 7902 Zour 2395 0160

Adan General Hospital Al-Sabah Chest Hospital Al-Sabah Maternity Hospital Amiri General Hospital As’ad Al-Hamad Dermatology Center

Farwaniya General Hospital Ibn Sina Hospital Jahra General Hospital Mubarak Al-Kabeer General Hospital Subhan Renal Hospital Sulaibikhat Orthopedic Hospital

25624000 22802555 1828282 1883883 25726666 22533177

Private Health Centers/ Clinics

Boushahri Clinic British Medical Center Care Clinic International Clinic

Public Hospitals

cons u l a tes

Fax 2532 6274 2251 9497 2537 9212 2256 3052 2232 2430 2535 5246 2533 0882 2531 6041 2574 8389 2251 6550 2539 2106 2532 8613 2532 1453 2256 4167 2533 3341 2254 9360 2240 2971 2252 9021 2534 1007 2256 3877 2533 1179 2531 7429 2532 4198 2257 1058 2252 0763 2481 7103 2535 4707 2532 3904 2257 1192 2481 9250 2252 9868 2535 6030 2530 9401 25353316 2257 2182

centr a l 4 7 2 2 0 0 0

94904040

hospital charges

medical services

Call, sms, Email us

O n- s i t e I T s e r v i c e s

23940600 24815000 24848067 22450080

1885544 23713100 22610666 25745111

Public Health Centers/ Clinics:

Dasman Clinic Faiha Polyclinic Farwaniya Polyclinic Hawalli Polyclinic Inaya Germen Medical Center Sabah Al-Salem Clinic Salmiya Polyclinic Shamiya Clinic Shuwaikh Clinic Yarmouk Clinic

24832067 24883000 24840300 24575300 25312700 24840027 24874240

22447602 22545188 24726033 22611645 25750777 25524821 25723500 25610660 24848913 25336482

DOCTORS & DENTISTS

I N PR I VAT E PR AC T ICE

Andrology, Male Infertility and Impotence Specialist Abdullatif A. Al Salim 2533 4438

Dermatologist & Venereologists Fahad I. Al Othman 2266 5166 Taibah M. Almonayes 2573 7477 Dr. Mohamed Bo Hamra 2266 5166

Dentists & Oral Surgeons Ahmed Al Balool 2262 2211 Badri K. Al Rayes 2574 2557 Duha Al Shaqan 2264 4614 Ebraheem Behbehani 2573 0000 Farida Al Herz 2257 3883 Maria Blanaru 2573 0000 Najat Essa-Bahman 2262 4595 Najeeb Kassim 2573 9277 Salwa A. Abdulsalam 2573 0000 Kuwait Medical Center 2575 9044 / 5 Endocrinologists Latifa Al Dowaisan Kamal Abdulaziz Al Shome

Gastroenterologist Mohamed A. Al Shimali 2532 2030 - 2263 9955 Urologist Fawzi Taher Abul Ali Yousef Mehdi

2565 0064 2533 3501

General Practitioner Dina Al Rifai 2533 3501 - 2533 3502 Obstetricians & Gynecologists Samira Al Awadi 2573 8055 Ma’asouma Maksheed 2573 1275 Mohamed Gamal 2534 9077 Mai Al Snan 2532 1171

2572 8004 2532 9924

Ear, Nose & Throat Surgeons Hossam Eldin Abdulfattah 2574 5056 Abdulmohsen Mousa Jafar 2565 5535

Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Adel Quttainah

2562 5030 / 60

Ministries

Awqaf & Islamic Affairs Commerce & Industry Communications Defense Education Health Higher Education Electricity & Water Finance

2248 0000 2248 0000 2481 9033 2484 8300 2481 7702 2487 7422 2240 1300 2537 1000 2248 0000

Foreign Affairs Housing Information Justice, Legal & Administrative Affairs Energy Planning Social Affairs & Labour Public Works

2242 5141 2530 1000 2241 5301 2248 0000 2241 5201 2242 8200 2248 0000 2538 5520

RESTAURANT • Café Library Lounge Al-Manshar Rotana Hotel Tel: 23931000 Hang.Out Lounge Galleria 2000 Tel: 25755588 Song Bird Café Hilton Kuwait Resort Tel: 23725500 Chit Chat Café Restaurant Safir Hotel & Residences -Fintas Tel: 25455555 Lounge Café Safir Hotel & Residences -Fintas Tel: 25455555 The English Tea Room Sheraton Hotel Tel: 1835555 Waterlemon Al-Raya Tel: 22244797 Marina Mall Tel: 22997666 Le Pain Quotidien Palms Beach Hotel Tel: 25633684 Marina Crescent Tel: 22244942 Avenues Tel: 24954632 • Casual Dining Applebee’s Bneid Al-Gar Tel: 22407536 Fintas Tel: 23714559 Burgerhub Gulf road Tel: 22464818 Chili’s Bneid Al-Gar Tel: 22452200 Chili’s Al-Bida’a Tel: 22253120/1 Hard Rock Café Salmiya Tel: 25710004 Ruby Tuesdays Bneid Al-Gar Tel: 22444454 T.G.I. Fridays Bneid Al-Gar Tel: 22544300

• Chinese China Hut Tel: 25656226 China Express Jabriya Tel: 25342399 Salwa Tel: 25653230 China House Salmiya Tel: 25713339 / 60 China Lake Al-Blajat St. Tel: 25713072 / 3 China Town Salmiya Tel: 25652541 Greens Al-Wafra Complex Tel: 22516031

Tel: 1815050 • French Le Notre Gulf Road Tel: 25758888 • Indian Dawat Restaurant Bneid Al Gar Tel: 22411728 Abu Halifa Tel: 23724251 Al Alamia Mall, Jahra Tel: 24554642 Taal Restaurant Salmiya Beda’ Tel: 22253142 Winner’s Salmiya Tel: 25739954 Abu Halifa Tel: 23711374 / 5 Riggae Tel: 24895501 / 2 Jahra Tel: 24560088/8800

Gulf Royal Tel: 23925390-Fintas 22622556-Hawalli 25710448-Salmiya 22244795-Marina

Asha’s Tel: 22244502/3/9 Marina Crescent Tel: 24954700

Noodles Salmiya Tel: 25712233

Bukhara Sheraton Hotel Tel: 22422055

The Peacock Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: 25673000

Tourist Restaurant Kuwait City Tel: 22411702

Noodle Factory Avenues Tel: 24954751

Mugal Mahal Farwaniya Tel: 24726126/7 Fintas Tel: 23915588 Salmiya Tel: 25722223/4 Sharq Tel: 22425132

• Continental Casper & Gambini’s Kuwait City Tel: 22430054 La Marina Sharq Mall Tel: 22426672 • Fast Food Burger King Tel: 22444466 Domino’s Pizza Tel: 1800800 Hardees Tel: 1888333 KFC Tel: 1888666 Little Caesar’s Tel: 1888855 Pizza Hut

Tikka Tel: 1822833 • International Al-Bustan Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: 25673000 Al-Hamra Sheraton Hotel Tel: 22422055 Al-Marsa Restaurant Le Meridien Tel: 22510999 Atrium Restaurant Courtyard Marriott Hotel

Tel: 22997000

L I S T I N G S

Beit 7 Kuwait City Tel: 22450871 Café Rio Al-Fanar Tel: 25732226 Dunes Ritz Hotel Tel: 22499911 Failaka Al-Manshar Rotana Hotel Tel: 23931000 La Brasserie JW Marriott Tel: 22455550 Ritz Shamiya Tel: 24820184 Shuwaikh Tel: 24844350 Square International Tel: 22437681 Test n’ Taste Villa Moda Tel: 24827010 Teatro Hilton Kuwait Resort Tel: 23725500

Kuwait City Tel: 22400737

Nino Gulf Road Tel: 22541900 Pizza Express Abdullah Al-Salem Tel: 22560273 Al-Bida’a Tel: 22253166 Airport Tel: 24342681 Tel: 23725500 Ricardo Sheraton Hotel Tel: 22422055 • Japanese Edo Shaab Tel: 22659590 Kei JW Marriott Hotel Tel: 22422650 Korea & Japan Restaurant New Park Hotel Tel: 25634200

Sakura Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel: 24742000

AlRoshinah Restaurant Safir Hotel & Residences -Fintas Tel: 25455555

Shogun The Palms Hotel Tel: 27070022

Il Forno Restaurant Courtyard Marriot Hotel Tel: 22997000 Johnny Carino’s Salmiya Tel: 22667050 La Piazza Kuwait City Tel: 24246639 Lorenzo

Manousha Salmiya Tel: 25722607 / 8

Al-Noukhaza Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel: 24742000

Fakhr Al-Din Restaurant Kuwait City Tel: 22423180

Villa Fairouz Shaab Tel: 22652030

Shrimpy Gulf Road Tel: 22563118 Totally Fish Marina Crescent Tel: 22244960/1

Garden New Park Hotel Tel: 25634200

Yeldes Palace Kuwait City Tel: 22455212

Kabab-Ji Tel: 1861616

Zahrat Tunis Hawalli Tel: 22662444/333

Mais Al-Ghanim Kuwait City Tel: 22402590

• Persian Kabab Al-Hijja Bnaid Al-Gar Tel: 22517512

Palm Palace Salmiya Tel: 25756331 Saj Express Kuwait City Tel: 22497822 Sarai Al-Bida’a Tel: 22253180/1 Shisha &

Sushi Club Al-Blajat St. Tel: 25712144 Wasabi Al-Bida’a Tel: 22253112 Kuwait City Tel: 22494000 • Lebanese Al-Berdawny Palace Tel: 25661117 Ayam Zaman Holiday Inn Tel: 18477777 Burg Al-Hamam Gulf Road Tel: 22529095

• Steak House Relais De L’Entrecote Al-Fanar Complex Tel: 25729600 Terrace Grill JW Marriott Hotel Tel: 22455550

Shabistan Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel: 24742000

The Gaucho Grill The Palms Hotel Tel: 25667370 -

• Seafood Al-Ahmadi Crowne Plaza Hotel Tel: 24742000

• Tex-Mex Chi Chi’s Salmiya Tel: 25625811

Al-Boom Radisson Blu Hotel Tel: 25756000

Tumbleweed Southern Grill Al-Bida’a Tel: 22253154/5

Maki Al-Blajat St. Tel: 25733561 Marina Waves Tel: 22244560

Flavors Restaurant Safir Hotel & Residences -Fintas Tel: 25455555

• Italian Ciro’s Pomodoro Kuwait City Tel: 22424004

Saj Express Kuwait City Tel: 22497822

Te l : 1 8 3 9 0 9 0

Salmiya - Jabriya - Keifan www.healthstop.com.kw

HOTELS

FIVE STAR Al-Manshar Rotana Hotel Crowne Plaza Kuwait Hilton Kuwait Resort JW Marriot Kuwait City Hotel Kempinski Julai’a Hotel & Resort The Regency Hotel & Resort Le Meridien Le Meridien Tower Marina Hotel Kuwait Movenpick Albid’a Movenpick Palms Beach Hotel & Spa Radisson Blu Hotels & Resorts Refad Palace Safir International Hotel Kuwait Sheraton Kuwait Hotel & Towers Safir Hotel & Residences Kuwait

23931000 24772000 23725500 22455550 1 844 444 25766666 22510999 22831831 22244970 22253100 24610033 22824060 25673000 23908630 22530000 22422055 25455555

FOUR STAR Carlton Tower Hotel The Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait El Joan Resort Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait

22452740 22997000 23281897 22415001

Ghani Palace Hotel Holiday Inn Khalifa Resort Kuwait Continental Hotel New Park Hotel Al Bastaki Hotel Al Dana Hotel Heritage Village Palace Hotel Shiik Flamingo Hotel & Resort Swiss-Belhotel Plaza Kuwait

25710301 1 847 777 23280144 22527300 25634200 22555081 23902760 22520600 1 821 111 25725050 22436686

THREE STAR Imperial Hotel Oasis Hotel Safari House Hotel Second Home Hotel Spring Continental Hotel Ibis Hotel Salmiya Ibis Hotel Sharq

22528766 22465489 22443136 22532100 25742410 25713872 22928080

TWO STAR International Hotel Kuwait Residence Hotel

25741788 22467560

BUSINESS

thursdAY, april 26, 2012

m ar ket watc h KUWAIT 0.14% 6337

Dubai lender ENBD posts $174.51 million Q1 net profit

DUBAI

QATAR

OMAN

0.59% 1660

0.13% 8653

0.65% 5914

ABU DHABI 0.28% 2512

DUBAI: Emirates National Bank of Dubai (ENBD) is wary of new regulations limiting loan exposures to state-linked entities, Dubai’s largest lender said on Wednesday, after posting first-quarter earnings that beat analysts’ forecasts. The United Arab Emirates’ central bank this month proposed introduced regulations which limited lending to state-linked entities to 100 percent of any bank’s loan book, a move designed to minimize the impact of problem loans.

See page 11

OIL MARKETS BAHRAIN

EGYPT

0.04% 1148

0.82% 4908

SAUDI 0.39% 7542

US Crude $103.62 $0.07 London Brent $117.82 $0.33 Kuwait Crude $116.29 $0.15 Information Courtesy: KAMCO

CURRENCIES US Dollar

British Pound

Saudi Riyal

Qatari Riyal

Indian Rupee

Euro

Japanese Yen

UAE Dirham

Bahraini Dinar

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Buy 0.2778 Sell 0.278 Buy 0.3668 Sell 0.3671

Kuwait 2011 current account surplus jumps 78% Bourse ends day’s trading at 6,326.5 points

KUWAIT: Kuwait’s current account surplus surged 78 percent in 2011 mainly thanks to a jump in exports, the Gulf Arab country’s central bank said on Wednesday.The current account of one of the world’s top oil exporters booked a surplus of 19.53 billion Kuwaiti dinars (70.3 billion US dollars) in 2011, or 54.8 percent of 2010 gross domestic product, compared to 10.98 billion in 2010, or 30.8 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), it said.

Analysts polled by Reuters had expected Kuwait’s current account surplus to reach 35.2 percent of GDP in 2011 and 33.6 percent of GDP this year.

“That increase...was mainly an outcome of the rise in the surplus of the balance of goods,” the central bank said, adding that it soared by 66.7 percent on an annual basis.

It has not yet released 2011 GDP data for the member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) economy.

Growth in the net value of Kuwaiti residents’ assets abroad also accelerated during 2011, the central bank said.

Taking into account the net value of external assets of some government institutions and the central bank’s own reserves, the account showed an overall surplus of KD 13.46 billion compared to a KD 10.48 billion surplus in 2010.

In more news, trading ended at Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) Wednesday on a mixed board, though main indices were green. The price index gained 8.9 points to reach 6,326.5 points, while the weighted index came to 419.53 points a drop of 1.75 points. Trades came to 5,505 spot transactions worth 38,599,110 Kuwaiti dinars, with 550,860, 000 shares changing hands till end of session.

As for sector indices, there were four readings in

The new iPad is seen in a window display at an Apple Store on April 24, 2012 in San Francisco, California. Based on high sales of the iPhone and iPad, Apple reported a 93 percent surge in second quarter earnings with a profit of $11.6 billion, or $12.30 per share compared to $6 billion, or $6.40 per share one year ago. (AFP)

green and three in red. Top gainer sector was industrial which put on 40.1 index points, while biggest loser was banking on a down of 85 index points.

Top share for the day was that of Manazel Holding Company, while biggest loser was the Gulf Franchising Holding Company stock. Top-volume share was that of Abyaar Real Estate Development Company.

Meanwhile, trading at Kuwait Stock Exchange starts the day in red with a drop of 2 points, reading 6,325.6 points at 9:39 a.m. Wednesday, while the weighted index came to 420.44 points, down 0.84 points.

Trades came to 1,220 spot transactions, valued at KD 8.6 million and with 113.6 million shares changing hands. -Agencies

Jazeera Airways announces record net profit of KD 10.6 million Shareholders approve 10% bonus shares distribution Compiled by Al Watan Daily

KUWAIT: Award winning Jazeera Airways Group held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Shareholders at the company’s headquarters in Kuwait where shareholders approved the Board’s recommendation to issue a 10 percent bonus shares to shareholders following a record-breaking year.

For the year 2011, the company earned record 10.6 million Kuwaiti dinars in net profit with an earnings per share (eps) of 48 Kuwaiti fils, a record KD 57.8 million in revenue, up 36 percent from 2010, and a record KD 14.9 million in operating profit.

FY2011 Financial Highlights:

• FY2011 revenue of KD 57.8 million, up 36 percent from FY 2010’s KD 42.6 million

• FY2011 operating profit of KD 14.9 million, vs. KD 1.0 million in 2010 • FY2011 net profit of KD 10.6 million, vs.

FY2010’s net loss of KD 2.8 million • FY2011 average yield: 46 percent

The results reflect the success of the company’s TurnAround Plan that was implemented in second quarter 2010 and had steered the company into continued profitability for the last six quarters.

Jazeera Airways Group Chairman Marwan Boodai said, “The year 2011 was a record-breaking year despite the continued over capacity, the impact of political unrest on travel within our network, and an increasing fuel cost. Jazeera Airways today has a solid network, increasing load factors, reduced cost, high aircraft utilization, in addition to an aircraft leasing arm with assets deployed across the globe, from the US to the Middle East to Asia.

Jazeera Airways Group today has a sustainable business model that has generated sustainable profitability quarter-on-quarter for six quarters in-a-row.”

Speaking to shareholders, Boodai gave an overview of the company’s focus areas and milestones in 2011. He

said, “We had three priorities in 2011. First, building on the momentum of record-breaking returns seen in Q3 and Q4 2010.Second, successfully mitigating the impact of the political unrest on the business. And third, capturing a strong market share on the Cairo-Kuwait route that was launched in May 2011.”

Bodai said that the initial indicators for the first quarter of this year show positive results and fair performance. He also expected that the public registration will begin next July to increase the capital of the company. Bodai said that the company is seeking to increase the capital by 20 million Kuwaiti dinars with 100 fils the nominal value for each share.

“The total amount of capital will then reach KD 44 million,” he remarked.

Bodai’s statement came during the General Assembly extraordinary meeting on Wednesday. He explained that the Al-Jazeera Airlines is about to complete procedures regarding hiring a new plane from the Sahab Company by net July.

He also said that the plane would be ready for operational purposes as the airlines is expecting more operational activities following the launch of Najaf Airport.

S&P downgrades India outlook to negative CAPITALS: Standard & Poor’s (S&P) on Wednesday downgraded India’s credit outlook to negative as a weakening economy and gaping fiscal deficit put the country’s prized investment-grade rating at risk. The agency maintained India’s rating at ‘BBB-’, but warned it faces at least a one-in-three chance of losing its status if its financial situation worsens.

The “BBB-” is one notch above ‘junk,’ which carries an increased risk of default and would see India having to pay higher interest rates on its public borrowing.

“India’s investment and economic growth have slowed and its current-account deficit has widened, resulting in a weaker medium-term credit outlook,” S&P credit analyst Takahira Ogawa said in a media conference call.

“We are revising the outlook on the long-term ratings on India to negative.”

Asia’s third-largest economy is battling stubborn inflation, the widest budget deficit of all major emerging economies, a weak fiscal position and slower growth on the domestic front.

Uncertainty in global markets and Europe’s long-running sovereign debt crisis have added to the pressures. India’s benchmark Sensex share index fell 150 points after the S&P announcement before retracing some of its losses to trade

Farmers carry baskets of cucumbers for sale at the market at Phaphamau in the northern city of Allahabad on April 25, 2012. Standard and Poor’s downgraded India’s credit outlook to negative as a weakening economy and gaping fiscal deficit put the country’s prized investment-grade rating at risk. (AFP)

down nearly a percentage point, or 133.21 points, at 17,090.98. Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee, seeking to reassure investors, said the government was “confident of overcoming difficulties”, telling

reporters “there is no need for panic”.

India’s economic reform process has been paralyzed by a string of political scandals that has beset Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s Congress-led government.

S&P in 2007 hiked India’s credit rating to investment-grade, a move that paved the way for global funds to invest in government bonds and other debt in the country.

But now, Ogawa said, “there’s at least a one-in-three chance we may move the rating down in the next 24 months if the external position deteriorates, growth prospects diminish or progress on fiscal reforms remains slow.”

India’s fiscal deficit was 5.9 percent of gross domestic product in the fiscal year ended on March 31, swelled by social spending programs targeting the country’s hundreds of millions of poor.

The government hopes to trim the deficit to 5.1 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) this year, but analysts are skeptical given the government’s record borrowing plans.

India’s economy is forecast to expand around 7.6 percent this fiscal year, from the 6.9 percent estimated for last year, the second slowest pace in a decade.

S&P’s negative outlook came as Moody’s Analytics, part of credit analysis giant Moody’s Corp, said India’s economy was growing well below potential.

“The government has lost all momentum” on economic reforms, Glenn Levine, senior economist at Moody’s Analytics, said in an investor note. -AFP

Buy 0.4476 Sell 0.448

Buy 0.003419 Sell 0.003422

Buy 0.0741 Sell 0.0741

Buy 0.07563 Sell 0.07569

Buy 0.07636 Sell 0.07630 Buy 0.7369 Sell 0.73746

Buy 0.005295 Sell 0.005289 Buy 0.00652 Sell 0.006507

Prices in Kuwaiti fils as of April 25, 2012 Courtesy: KAMCO

Burgan Bank Group reports KD 17.5 million Q1 net profit, reflects 48 percent growth

KUWAIT: Burgan Bank Group reported Wednesday 17.5 million Kuwaiti dinars net profits for the first quarter of 2012 (growth of 48 percent), compared to KD 11.8 million for the same period in 2011.

Earnings per share increased to 11.9 Kuwaiti fils compared to 7.8 fils for the same period in 2011. This was announced in a press release on Wednesday. Revenues has reached to KD 42.6 million reflecting a growth of 10 percent from KD 38.8 million reported in the first quarter of 2011. Operating profit grew by 15 percent to reach KD 26.6 million compared to KD 23 million for the same period in 2011.

Customers’ deposits grew to KD 3,040 million, a nine percent increase from year ended on Dec. 31, 2011, while loans grew by seven percent reaching KD 2,406 million. The consolidated financials include the results of the group’s operations in Kuwait as well as its subsidiaries, namely Jordan Kuwait Bank, Gulf Bank Algeria, Bank of Baghdad, Tunis International Bank, in which Burgan Bank has a majority stake.

During the first quarter of 2012, the subsidiaries have demonstrated a steady growth path and maintained profitability. Majed Essa Al-Ajeel, Chairman of Burgan Bank Group said, “We are pleased with our results during the first quarter of the year.

Our financial performance continues to be solid, and the Group demonstrates a consistent growth trend across its operations despite the slow economic growth in the region”. “Burgan Bank Group’s conservative strategy, prudent risk approach, and sustainable financial performance helped maintain the group’s overall position locally as well as regionally.The group announced earlier that it has entered into an agreement with Eurobank EFG to acquire a 99.26 percent stake in Eurobank Tekfen, Turkey. The final execution of the transaction is subject to regulatory approvals from Central Bank of Kuwait (“CBK”) and Turkey’s Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (BRSA).

The value of this transaction reflects a clear strategic approach, where Burgan Bank Group acquired an existing and leading banking platform that enjoys an extensive network of 60 branches across vibrant areas in Turkey, with a total price that equates to the cost of obtaining a license for an initial operational start-up,” added Al-Ajeel.

Dubai launches $1.25 billion two-part Islamic bond DUBAI:The Dubai government launched a 1.25 billion US dollar two-tranche Islamic bond on Wednesday, issue arrangers said, at the lower end of earlier indicated yield guidance, signaling healthy appetite for the emirate’s latest debt market foray. Dubai launched a $600 million five-year tranche at 4.9 percent and a $650 million 10-year tranche at 6.45 percent.

Final guidance issued earlier on Wednesday had been tighter than initial indications from the previous day.

Three sources said order books were almost four billion dollar when books closed at about 0830 GMT. Order books for the emirate’s foray into capital markets - a $500 million 10-year issue last June - were below $2 billion. The new bonds were already trading higher in the grey market, an indication of demand for the deal. The five-year tranche was trading 0.25/0.50 higher while the 10-year part was up 0.20/0.45 percent, according to two regional traders.

“The continued pickup in Dubai’s economy, led by the external sectors, should support demand for the issue along with the strong appetite for Islamic bonds,” said Monica Malik, chief economist at EFG Hermes. Dubai’s budget deficit narrowed sharply to 3.7 billion UAE dirhams (one billion dollar) last year, helped by higher oil revenues and lower spending on development projects, a sovereign bond prospectus produced by the emirate showed. Helped by an economic revival in trade and tourism and its safe-haven status amid the Arab Spring civil uprisings, Dubai has been climbing back from the depths of its debt crisis of 2009 which caused many jittery investors to flee overnight. Proceeds of the issue will be used to cover the budget deficit and refinancing debt, a senior government official, requesting anonymity, told Reuters on Tuesday.

The government has direct public notes’ maturities of 6.5 billion dirhams in 2013, according to the latest bond prospectus, and just over seven billion dirhams in 2014. In addition, related party debt, consisting of a $20 billion facility borrowed from Abu Dhabi in 2009 also matures in 2014. -Reuters

Credit Suisse reports plunging first quarter profits CAPITALS: Swiss banking giant Credit Suisse said Wednesday that its 2012 first-quarter (Q1) profit plunged to just 44 million Swiss francs (48.3 million US dollars, 36.6 million euros) from 1.1 billion francs a year ago. The bank said the poor result was largely the result of an accounting loss on its own debt, and weaker earnings from its investment bank activities. “Our reported results were adversely impacted by accounting driven fair value losses due to tightening of our own credit spreads,” chief executive Brady Dougan said.

He noted that the impact of those losses reached 1.6 billion francs. Credit Suisse said it had reduced risky assets by 33 percent over the past year to bring its books in line with new international regulations under the Basel III rules which were drawn up in the wake of the financial crisis to make banks reinforce their capital reserves. Basel III risk-weighted assets now stand at $210 billion, the bank said.While the net result represented an annualized 96-percent drop in profit, it nonetheless came in above analysts’ expectations.

Analysts interviewed by the financial firm AWP had on average forecast net losses of 337 million francs.

The investment banking division’s pre-tax earnings fell by a third from the same period last year however, while those at Credit Suisse’s private banking unit were down by 27 percent.

The asset management division was the only unit to report improved results, reporting income before tax of 250 million francs, an increase of 43 percent. The results caused little concern among investors. Credit Suisse shares were up 0.25 percent to 23.61 francs in morning trading on the Swiss stock exchange, which was 0.17 percent higher overall. -AFP

10

ALWATAN DAILY

BUSINESS

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Iraq April oil exports to hit 2.4 million barrels per day Qurna 2 output seen at 500,000 barrels per day in 2014

WEST QURNA, Iraq: Iraq expects oil exports to reach more than 2.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in April and is planning to export 2.9 million bpd in 2013, its oil minister said on Wednesday.

“Hopefully for this month, we will export more than 2.4 million barrels per day,” Abdul-Kareem Luaibi told reporters, adding the bpd estimate for 2013.

In more news, production at Iraq’s West Qurna Phase-2 oilfield is expected to hit 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2014, Iraq’s oil minister said on Wednesday, as drilling of the first oil well began.

Iraq is expected to be the world’s biggest source of new oil supplies over the next few years after signing contracts for big development projects with major oil companies. The supergiant oilfield in the south is managed by Russia’s LUKOIL. “This is the first oil well out of 23 wells to be drilled as (part of) the first phase of developing the West Qurna Two oilfield,” Abdul-Kareem Luaibi told reporters while getting ready to climb a rig and press a button to start the drilling.

Iraq’s oil production had been held back by decades of war and sanctions, but officials say they now expect it to rise quickly.

The head of state-run South Oil Co. said on Friday output from Iraq’s southern oilfields was seen reaching 2.75 million bpd by the end of the year.

LUKOIL sealed a 20-year deal to develop the virgin West Qurna Phase-2 oilfield in an auction in December 2009, pledging to boost output to a plateau target of 1.8 million bpd in six years.

Its partner, Norway’s Statoil, sold its minority stake in the field last month, making LUKOIL the sole foreign partner in one of Iraq’s biggest new oil projects.

LUKOIL said in a statement that drilling operations

FILE- In this image made on Sunday, May 31, 2009, employees work at the Tawke oil field in the semiautonomous Kurdish region in northern Iraq. Iraq expects oil exports to reach more than 2.4 million barrels per day (bpd) in April and is planning to export 2.9 million bpd in 2013, its oil minister said on Wednesday. (AP)

at five well pads would occur simultaneously and that wells would be as deep as 5,000 meters. It said total investment in the field would be around $25 billion.

“Production from the oilfield will reach 150,000 barrels per day by the end of 2013 and increase steadily to 500,000 barrels in the second half of 2014,” Sergei Nikiforov, a vice president for development and production at LUKOIL told reporters at West Qurna, 80 km (53

DekaBank courts investors in Kuwait Nancy Oteifa Staff Writer

KUWAIT: DekaBank, a pioneer asset management company in Germany held a roundtable discussion Tuesday at JW Marriot to talk about the bank’s future plans and the situation in Europe.The event was attended by Thomas Neisse Head of the Board of Managing Director, chief executive officer (CEO) at DekaBank, Ulrich Heugebauer Managing Director, and Head of Quantitative Products at DekaBank and Ulrich Kater Chief Economist at DekaBank.

Kater started by saying that there are three messages from Europe to Kuwait, the first one refers to the fact that the price of oil is very dependent in the current state of the economy. The world economy is relatively stable and there are some threats mainly from the financial system, he explained.

“There is stable development in the European currency union and so we support the last initiative by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to enhance the financial means to support the European system,” he stated. The second message is that we think that the euro as a currency is not in danger as we now have a strategy to cope with the problem. The strategy lies in the fact that the Southern European countries are obliged to adjust their economy to make reforms in the field of the labor market, and structure reform in the healthy sectors. This is currently in progress, he explained, but to be successful it will take years to show positive results.

The third message is important for countries that are wealthy like Kuwait, where financial markets are a little more dangerous than they were in the past due to the financial crisis and it is more difficult to maintain the wealth through the international financial markets.

“In Germany the country is very stable and we can’t see any symptoms of the crisis. Unemployment is very low, the economy is doing well and from there DekaBank is about to advise on how to invest your money in

this unstable world. Conservatism of our strategy is one of our main characteristics,” he stated.

Neisse added, “We have 180 billion euros worth of assets on management and DekaBank’s investment mainly serve a network of saving banks, which can be found all over Germany.”

“We have 230 saving banks together and these banks have been founded 200 years ago, initiated by the local authorities, to provide the local individual and local companies with banking services, including accounting, savings, credit and financing,” he said.

“It is a form of retail banking in its purest sense.

These saving banks are avoiding every risk, and they don’t invest in the capital market because it is a ‘lose market’. This business philosophy is reflected in our products and therefore we believe that we have a high skill in managing risks concerning investment risk, counterpart risk and we monitor our custody very closely,” stated Neisse.

He noted, “If someone wants his money to be invested very safely, then we can offer a lot of things, we are very German in our investment attitude and this is needed these days when financial markets shows fluctuation.” Kater added, “As Europe slowly continues its economic recovery, it offers excellent investment opportunities for investors looking for stability and long terms returns.”

“Since we were last here in November 2011, the Eurozone appears to have begun to make some progress on economic recovery, although there is still much work to be done. Unsurprisingly, the financial markets remain exceptionally risk-averse and no investment area can be considered risk-free, as it may have done in easier times. But although the market believes that quick gains are unlikely, it also understands that there are opportunities, although the return to European economic and political stability will take time to achieve.

We remain confident that there are exciting long-term investment possibilities today which will make very attractive opportunities for outside investors.”

miles) north of the southern oil city of Basra.

West Qurna-2 is the world’s second-largest undeveloped field with recoverable oil reserves of around 14 billion barrels, according to LUKOIL. South Korea’s Samsung Engineering signed a one billion US dollar oilfield service contract with Iraq for the field last month, part of an initial development plan to start production at the field. -Reuters

Biofuels driving up global food prices BRUSSELS: The European Union continues to ignore that its biofuels policies are driving up global food prices and pushing people in poor countries off their land, according to a report released Wednesday by the international aid agency, ActionAid. The report titled ‘Fuel for thought’ says that increased demand for biofuels may push global food prices to crisis levels; EU’s biofuels policies alone could push up oilseed prices by up to 33 percent, maize by up to 22 percent, sugar by up to 21 percent and wheat by up to 10 percent, between now and 2020.

Laura Sullivan from ActionAid’s office in Brussels noted that if the EU continues to ignore the impacts of its biofuels policy on people living in some of the poorest parts of the planet, it will effectively be sponsoring hunger and human rights abuses on a massive scale.

With an estimated 13-19 million hectares of land outside of Europe needed to meet the EU-wide targets, forced displacements of poor people from their land are set to increase, to grow fuel for the European market, warns the report.

The ActionAid report, launched at a biofuels conference with participants from the EU, United Nations, NGOs and business, in Brussels shows how a series of deals by European companies have led to mass displacements and rights abuses in countries in Africa and Latin America.

Eleven villages in Tanzania were affected when a British company seized 8, 200 hectares of land to grow fuel for the European market.

In Guatemala, a country that the EU labels as being a significant supplier of biofuels for the European market, the grabbing of land for sugar production has resulted in violent clashes and three deaths.

ActionAid called on the EU to investigate the full impacts of its biofuels policies on human rights and to drop its 10 percent target for renewable energy in transport by 2020, 88 percent of which will come from first generation biofuels. -KUNA

Foreign firms vie for Libya oil industry revival TRIPOLI: Libya’s first post-war oil and gas exhibition attracted dozens of foreign companies to Tripoli this week, avid to win new business and hopeful that questions about contracts and security will ultimately be resolved in their favor.

After a virtual shutdown last year, Libyan oil output has climbed to near pre-war levels of 1.6 million barrels per day since the conflict that ousted Muammar Gadhafi ended, but concerns remain over security and how the North African country’s new rulers will treat foreign companies.

Libya needs foreign investment and expertise to increase oil and gas production. But uncertainty about existing contracts and about the terms of any new deals will persist until a clearer landscape emerges after June elections for a national assembly. “(We need) a stable environment ... security. We also need answers to questions about what will be the role of IOCs (international oil companies) in the future,” Jean-Daniel Blasco, vice president North Africa for exploration and production at France’s Total, told a conference that ran alongside the exhibition.

“What will be the relationship between the ministry and National Oil Corporation? When will the next exploration rounds be issued? ... will EPSA 4 remain the model for future exploration? These are the main questions,” he said, referring to Libya’s last exploration and production sharing agreement program.

The interim government has set up a committee to look into corruption allegations in the Gadhafi regime. Its deter-

minations could lead to the reworking of lucrative deals in the member of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which has Africa’s largest crude oil reserves.

Meanwhile, a shake-up of the sector has given more power to the oil ministry and carved up the responsibilities of the state’s National Oil Corporation (NOC).

“We are cooperating with the committee, we gave them all the information we have,” Oil Minister Abdulrahman Ben Yazza told Reuters. “We hope they will finish their work soon and give out all the information needed.”

When asked about the next potential offering of blocks or contracts, he said: “We are studying this matter and we will (talk) about this soon.”

Increasing future production

The government has reiterated there will be no new deals until after the polls and that it is too early to say what future contracts would look like. In the meantime, businesses are ensuring they make themselves well known on the ground.

Companies from around the world exhibited their expertise in exploration, production, refining and services at the four-day Oil & Gas Libya 2012, which runs until Thursday. Among them were Total, Repsol, Wintershall and Statoil, already among the biggest firms already operating in Libya.

Repsol expects to reach its pre-war Libyan output of 340,000 bpd by summer. It hopes for a rise to up to 380,000 bpd in coming years, Nemesio FernadezCuesta, upstream director, said.

Gold holds above $1,640 ahead of Fed LONDON: Gold held above 1,640 US dollars an ounce in Europe on Wednesday as the dollar’s slide to a threeweek low against the euro supported prices, but moves were muted ahead of a policy announcement from the US Federal Reserve later in the day.

Appetite for nominally higher-risk assets such as stocks and commodities also improved, helping lift gold, as stronger-than-expected company earnings and solid demand for peripheral euro zone debt helped calm some investors’ jitters.

Spot gold was at $1,641.79 an ounce at 1217 GMT against $1,641.73 late on Tuesday, while US gold futures for June delivery were down $1.60 an ounce at $1,642.20.

The Fed is expected to say it will hold interest rates at record lows later, keeping the opportunity cost of holding bullion low. Its accompanying statement will be closely watched for signs that another round of quantitative easing is imminent.

Gold touched a high for the year above $1,790 an ounce in late February as investors bet on a fresh round of monetary easing. It quickly retreated, however, after a spate of firm economic data eroded those hopes and has held within a $70 range this month, its tightest monthly spread since last June.

“The Federal Open Market Committee announcement could be the trigger that takes gold away from its trading range,” BNP Paribas analyst Anne-Laure Tremblay said.

“Any mention of the need for further monetary accommodation would of course be positive for the precious metal. On the other hand, a focus on a higher inflation and employment forecast, rather than on current risks to economic growth, could see gold correct lower.”

The dollar remained the chief driver of gold prices.

Gold’s correlation with the euro/dollar exchange rate has been at its highest since early January this month.

An Indian man checks a gold ornament at a jewelry shop in Hyderabad, India, Tuesday, April 24, 2012.

The US unit fell to its lowest in three weeks versus the euro, making gold cheaper for holders of other currencies, as a rise in appetite for riskier assets encouraged cautious selling of the low-yielding dollar ahead of the Fed announcement.

The euro rose as investors were relieved when successful auctions sent yields on Dutch, Spanish and Italian debt

lower on Tuesday, after the Dutch government collapsed in a crisis over budget cuts.

Subdued Indian buying

Physical gold demand has been light in recent weeks, offering little support to bullion prices.

“Following the outflows from gold exchange-traded

“A lot of Libyan people know they need the international oil companies for financing, added technology, and we don’t foresee any major problems,” he told Reuters. “This process (regime change) can generate some difficulties, but we think we will be able to deal with them.”

Unlike in Iraq, the scale of the damage in Libya was limited, although oil officials have cited the need for maintenance and upgrades after fields were hastily shut down. That means potential business for the numerous European and Middle Eastern engineers, consultants and others at the exhibition.

“We hope to re-establish a lot of contacts with Libyan clients, existing and new,” Erik Huber, of Dutch engineering and environmental consultancy Royal Haskoning, said. “We trust that there will be a lot of investment in the Libyan oil industry.”

But behind the public statements of optimism, worries are evident. Protesters in Benghazi closed off the office of NOC subsidiary the Arabian Gulf Oil Company on Monday and Tuesday, and their demands included the ouster of Gadhafi-era officials.

“The problem is that some people want a clean cut from before (the Gadhafi-era), but some are needed for their expertise. Getting through change is key,” a European oil executive said. “We just have to be patient for now.”

Security also remains one of the biggest concerns of foreign companies returning to Libya. The numbers of expatriate workers still have yet to return to pre-war levels. -Reuters

funds the day before yesterday, demand in the United States also appears to be on the ebb from another side,” Commerzbank said in a note.

“The US Mint, for example, is on course to record its poorest rate of gold coin sales in April for five years. So far, only 17 thousand ounces have been sold this month, as compared to an average figure of 70 thousand ounces in the first three months of the year.”

Spending on gold in major consumer India at this year’s Hindu and Jain holy festival of Akshaya Tritiya on Tuesday was subdued compared with the usual heavy buying, as families struggled with rising expenses and high prices.

Price volatility could rise ahead of Wednesday’s May COMEX options expiry, as call and put options investors look to profit from heavy bets at the $1,650 strike price.

Platinum was up 0.9 percent at $1,553.49 an ounce, recovering some lost ground after its recent unperformance.

The metal widened its historically unusual discount to the gold to nearly $100 on Tuesday.

One ounce of platinum currently buys 0.94 ounces of gold, down from 0.96 ounces a week ago, and 2.3 ounces of palladium, against 2.4 ounces last Wednesday.

Silver was up 0.3 percent at $30.88 an ounce, while spot palladium was up 0.9 percent at $669.25 an ounce.

“Palladium has been somewhat of an outlier in that it has been moving slowly but steadily higher over the past 10 days and was in need of a modest correction,” INTL FCStone said in a note. “However, platinum has been weak for some time now, and deteriorating chart patterns have only exacerbated the selling.”

“Nevertheless, the precious metals complex as a whole could see a rather decent move higher if the upcoming Federal Reserve policy statement contains enough hints of a possible ease that, in turn, will enable fund money to flow back into the complex.” -Reuters

ALWATAN DAILY

BUSINESS

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

11

Dubai lender ENBD posts $174.51 million Q1 net profit Wary of central bank loan rules

DUBAI: Emirates National Bank of Dubai (ENBD) is wary of new regulations limiting loan exposures to state-linked entities, Dubai’s largest lender said on Wednesday, after posting first-quarter earnings that beat analysts’ forecasts.

The United Arab Emirates’ central bank this month proposed introduced regulations which limited lending to state-linked entities to 100 percent of any bank’s loan book, a move designed to minimize the impact of problem loans. Chief Executive Rick Pudner told a media conference call that the bank was currently assessing its exposure and would contact the United Arab Emirates (UAE) central bank before the September deadline.

“The rules will definitely affect our loan book. Not only for us but also for all commercial banks in the country,” Pudner said.

“We are currently reviewing our position and will discuss with other banks and the central bank at a later stage,” he added.

The lender is among the most exposed to state-linked entities restructuring debt and has seen its loan-loss provisions shoot up in the past quarters. Earlier on Wednesday, ENBD, 55.6-percent owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai, posted a forecastbeating 641 million UAE dirhams (174.51 million US dollars) firstquarter (Q1) net profit, helped by a near 50-percent rise in noninterest income and lower impairments.

In the year-earlier period, the bank had made a profit of 1.4 billion dirhams, boosted by a one-off gain on the stake sale of unit Network International. Two analysts polled by Reuters had forecast a net profit of 565 million dirhams and 570 million dirhams for the first three months of 2012.

The bank said it remained “cautious” in its outlook and the external environment remained challenging.

Impairments fell to 1.1 billion dirhams in the quarter, from 1.4 billion in the prior-year period, but rose slightly from end-December due to specific provisions in the bank’s corporate portfolio, as well as an increase in provision allowances, the statement said.

Shares in Emirates NBD dropped 2.8 percent on the Dubai bourse. They have fallen two percent year-to-date.

Integration

At the government’s behest, the bank was asked to absorb Dubai Bank in October after the debt-laden Islamic bank had to be rescued by the authorities. ENBD was given cash by the United Arab Emirates’ federal government and guarantees by Dubai to help it integrate the business. Integrating Dubai Bank with Emirates Islamic is in progress and expected to be finalized at the latest by the first half of next year, Pudner said.

“Work on the integration started a few weeks ago and we hope to complete it by end of this year or first half 2013,” he said. Sources told Reuters last month that ENBD was laying off 15 percent of its 8,000-strong workforce with a view to cutting costs.

The move led to savings of 140 million dirhams last year, Chief Financial Officer Surya Subramanian said on the call. The bank expects to save a further 80 million dirhams this year from the re-

Gatehouse Bank realizes 34.4 million pounds real estate investment in UK

FILE - Men walk past the head office of Emirates NBD on Baniyas Road in Dubai Feb. 6, 2012. Emirates National Bank of Dubai (ENBD) is wary of new regulations limiting loan exposures to state-linked entities, Dubai’s largest lender said on Wednesday, April 25, 2012, after posting first-quarter earnings that beat analysts’ forecasts. (Reuters)

dundancy plans. ENBD became the first Gulf Arab borrower to tap the offshore Chinese renminbi market when it priced a 750 million yuan ($118.8 million) three-year bond in March.

It also printed two dollar-denominated offerings during the quarter - a $500 million Sukuk, or Islamic bond, in January and a $1 billion conventional bond in March.

Emirates NBD is confident of meeting all its debt maturities this year. The bank has already paid 1.7 billion of debt during the first quarter and has more than eight billion maturing by the end of 2012, Subramanian said. -Reuters

Date of Closing Prices:

Date of Closing Prices: 25 / 04 / 2012 For more information please contact “Global” at (+965) 180 42 42 or www.globalinv.net

Company National Bank Gulf Bank Commercial Bank Ahli Bank Ahli United Bank International Bank Burgan Bank Kw Finance House Boubyan Bank

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Kw Investment Commercial Facilit.

Int'L Financial Adv. National Invest.

Kw Projects Ahlia Holding Coast Invest.

Int'L Investor Securities House Ind. & Fin. Inv. Securities Group Int'L Finance MARKAZ KMIFIC Aref Inv. Group Al AMAN Inv. ALOLA Inv. ALMAL Inv. Gulf Inv. House A'ayan Leasing Bayan Inv. GLOBAL Inv. Osoul Inv. KFIC KAMCO Nat. Int'l Holding Housing Finance MADAR Al Deera Holding Al Safat Inv. Al Salam Group Ekttitab Holding Al Qurain Holding Sokouk Holding Al-Madina Finance NOOR Tamdeen Inv. KW BH Int'l Exch.

Taiba Kuwaiti Holding Kuwait Syrian Strategia Kuwait China Inv. Manafae Inv. Gulf North Africa Amwal Al Masar Al-Imtiaz

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104 265 148 320 62 106 118 37.0 164 54 32 39.5 70 290 51 39.0 230.0 99.0 69.0 204 69 62 53 108

104 260 146 315 60 100 118 32.5 158 51 30 38.0 66 280 51 38.0 226.0 96.0 67.0 198 67 60 51 106

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Kuwait Insurance Gulf Insurance Ahlia Insurance Warba Insurance Kuwait Re-Ins. First Takaful Ins. Wethaq Insurance

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Kuwait R.E. United R.E. National R.E. Salhia R.E. Pearl R.E. Tamdeen R.E. Ajial R.E. Massaleh R.E. Arab R.E. Union R.E. ERESCO Mabani INJAZZAT RE Inv. Holding Grp Int'L Resorts Commercial R.E Sanam R.E. Aa'yan R.E Aqar Kuwait R.E Holding AL Mazaya Al Dar National R.E Themar Int'L Holding Grand R.E Projects Tijara & R.E Invest Al Tameer Arkan Al-Kuwait R.E Al Argan Int'L Abyaar Munshaat First Dubai KBT Manazel REAM Mena Real Estate Al Moudon Intl. R.E Markaz Real Estate Kuwait Remal R.E

56 116 138 242 238 102 38.0 95 1,020 75 19.0 65.0 89 62 74 87 21.5 87 44.0 66 70 51.0 31.0 41.0 24.5 37 59 345

Global Index - Real Estate

Nationl Ind Ind. Group Pipes Ind. & Oil Kuwait Cement Refrigeration Ind. Gulf Cables & Elec.

Heavy eng. & Ship.

Marine Services Portland Cement

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56 114 132 234 234 100 36.5 93 1,000 74 17.0 64.0 88 58 68 84 19.0 87 42.0 59 70 47.0 29.0 39.0 21.0 37 57 340

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226 122 450 1,240 285 156 850

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Last Close 180.46 6,336.50 Last Prev.

Close Close 1080 440 790 600 880 270 435 740 590 321.40

104 260 52 146 315 13.0 60 25.0 130 25.0 230 106 118 102 52 34.5 162 54 32 71 39.5 48.5 69 26.0 285 51 38.5 51 38.5 100 226.0 96.0 22.0 22.5 67.0 29.0 198 265 114 32.50 75 68 61 52 64 42.50 106 82.40 300 520 500 134 220 122 40.50 43.48

56 116 134 236 28.5 234 118 102 37.5 110 93 1,000 75 18.5 65.0 88 60 72 79 37.0 84 21.0 87 17.5 43.0 59 70 160 51.0 31.0 39.0 17.5 24.5 134 134 220 58 340 58.54

228 122 450 122 1,260 290 156 880

1080 445 790 600 900 275 435 750 590 323.16 106 265 52 146 325 13.0 60 25.0 130 25.0 230 102 120 102 52 35.0 158 51 29.5 71 38.5 48.5 66 26.0 280 55 38.5 51 38.5 100 232.0 99.0 22.0 22.5 69.0 29.0 196.0 265 114 32.50 75 66 60 52 64 42.50 108 82.82 300 520 500 134 220 122 40.50 43.48

Previous Close Change 181.23 -0.77 6,327.60 8.90 Trading Activity Tran. Value(KD) Chng Volume

DTD -0.42% 0.14%

Last Bid

Last Ask

MTD YTD 0.64% -1.49% 2.78% 8.98% Div. Annual Close High Yield Low P/E

-5 -20 -5 -10 1.76-

312,500 230,000 50,000 4,160,000 580,000 805,000 375,000 6,512,500

17 11 7 63 15 37 21 171

333,850 101,200 44,100 1,123,350 250,150 603,650 222,250 2,678,550

1,060 435 580 880 265 430 740 590

1,080 440 630 890 270 435 750 600

3.7% 0.0% 0.0% 2.5% 1.7% 1.9% 2.3% 2.0% 0.0% 2.0%

1,220 510 800 680 930 285 480 900 600 326.42

1,040 425 700 600 790 236 410 720 530 314.20

15.55 37.84 1240.61 18.04 33.01 25.83 13.29 26.75 128.53 19.60

-2 -5 -10 4 -2 0.54 3 3 1 3 5 -4 6.03.02.02.0 2 1 -2 0.42-

80,000 100,000 480,000 70,000 2,720,000 18,820,000 20,000 10,240,000 17,640,000 15,680,000 13,360,000 1,920,000 320,000 110,000 40,000 4,480,000 1,100,000 4,860,000 4,800,000 880,000 1,640,000 1,080,000 1,640,000 2,180,000 104,260,000

4 5 20 3 46 218 1 106 177 150 83 23 8 9 1 37 39 72 85 32 28 20 30 46

102 260 146 315 60 104 118 34.5 160 52 32 38.5 68.0 285 38.0 226.0 95.0 66.0 198 74 68 61 51 106.0

104 265 148 320 61 230 106 120 102 35.5 162 54 39.5 69.0 290 51 38.5 230.0 96.0 67.0 200 285 34 80 69 62 53 108.0

0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 6.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 2.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 3.5% 4.2% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 2.4%

112 285 67 182 345 18.5 69 25.0 130 36.0 230 122 120 102 52 35.5 150 65 35 71 44.0 48.5 70.0 26.0 295 65 39 51 47.5 104 270.0 130.0 25.0 33.5 96.0 29.0 190 310 114 32 89 73 60 59 64 42.5 140.0 85.99

104 255 40 144 295 11.5 50 25.0 130 21.0 230 99 102 50 52 24.0 106 47 21 71 28.5 48.5 64.0 26.0 242 51 36 51 26.0 61 99.0 19.5 19.0 16.0 38.0 29.0 154 255 114 26 58 50 51 47 64 42.5 106.0 74.96

16.16 9.83 0.00

1,243

8,320 26,350 70,160 22,350 165,320 1,942,000 2,360 364,160 2,833,840 822,120 420,840 74,920 21,920 31,400 2,040 172,400 249,960 474,840 323,840 176,520 111,280 66,600 86,040 233,600 8,703,180

Ex-D Ex-D Ex-D -

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270 460 124 116 28.0

300 510 475 144 132 43.0

6.7% 3.8% 5.0% 3.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 4.7%

325 610 540 148 220 134 40.5 44.91

280 520 450 102 220 102 40.5 42.22

2 -2 4 -

1,760,000 540,000 2,780,000 1,440,000 400,000 340,000 2,160,000 3,300,000 155,000 200,000 40,320,000 12,760,000 440,000 2,880,000 17,560,000 1,760,000 13,840,000 80,000 2,800,000 3,520,000 40,000 65,880,000 4,080,000 2,160,000 24,640,000 80,000 1,160,000 410,000 207,485,000

21 9 56 25 19 8 22 55 10 5 203 92 4 62 198 27 122 1 29 31 1 282 37 23 145 1 25 22

1,535

98,560 61,640 377,120 343,680 94,480 34,600 80,680 310,020 156,400 14,880 724,240 820,520 38,760 175,960 1,253,280 150,320 287,000 6,960 120,800 211,880 2,800 3,190,840 125,840 88,280 568,640 2,960 67,800 139,500 9,548,440

55 114 132 236 234 118 102 37.0 92 1,000 74 18.0 64.0 87 60 71 78 34.5 84 20.5 87 42.5 58 67 150 50.0 31.0 38.5 24.0 36 57 335

56 116 134 31.0 236 38.0 93 1,020 75 18.5 65.0 88 61 72 81 37.5 85 21.0 92 43.0 59 168 51.0 40.0 24.5 39 59 340

0.0% 4.3% 0.0% 6.4% 0.0% 3.4% 0.0% 6.9% 0.0% 6.4% 0.0% 1.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 5.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 7.1% 6.3% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 3.7% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 1.0%

63 118 152 246 37.5 250 130 100 52.0 120 104 1,080 85 20.0 68.0 97 75 73 90 38.0 92 23.0 91 17.5 45.0 70 80 174 52.0 39.5 40.5 28.5 25.5 134 40 220 70 480 58.54

47 97 108 200 28.5 224 114 77 27.0 108 94 840 62 11.0 35.0 77 54 52 74 33.0 59 13.5 87 17.5 31.0 57 64 116 27.5 22.0 25.0 17.5 15.0 134 31 220 49 270 49.06

1,560,000 1 560 000 240,000 60,000 27,500 300,000 40,000 65,000

25 9 6 6 25 2 6

353,040 353 040 29,400 27,000 34,600 86,800 6,240 55,900

226 122 445 122 1,240 280 154 850

228 124 455 132 1,260 290 162 880

0.0% 0 0% 0.0% 3.3% 0.0% 5.8% 3.4% 0.0% 7.4%

260 136 475 158 1,480 345 222 920

214 116 415 122 1,240 290 134 660

56 114 136 232 28.5 234 118 96 36.5 110 96 1,000 74 17.5 65.0 89 59 69 79 37.0 86 19.5 87 17.5 44.0 62 65 160 48.0 28.5 41.0 17.5 22.0 134 134 220 58 345 58.35

6 1.0 -3 1 1.0 1.01 3 -2 1.5 1.0-3 5 3 2.5 2.02.5 Ex-D -5 0.19

230 124 460 122 1,240 280 154 860

-2 -2 -10 20 10 2 20

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05 / 01 / 2012

For more Information please contact "Global" at (+965) 180 42 42 or www.globalinv.net

For more Information please contact "Global" at (+965) 180 42 42 or www.globalinv.net ź

profits upon exit, to manage the full life cycle of real estate investment for investor advantage.

As an FSA regulated bank, we are also uniquely positioned with a competitive advantage, given our ability to add a depth of product offering in liquidity and wealth management options for our investors, which adds further financial comfort and meets their objectives for wealth preservation.” Boodai concluded, “Combined with its recent successful exit of the VA Oceanside Clinic property in the US for $54.5m, the student accommodation realized investment showcases the caliber and track record of Gatehouse’s cross continental transactional experience in the US and UK real estate market.”

Stuart Jarvis, Vice President, Real Estate, Head of Student Accommodation commented on the transactional highlights of the transaction stating, “Despite the economic downturn, average rental growth rates in the student accommodation sector have remained extremely resilient, certainly when you compare the rates to traditional real estate investments in the past year.

We are seeing strong returns not just in London, but also in the regions, mainly due to the lack of supply of purpose-built student accommodation coupled with the rising demand of overseas students looking to study in the UK. “Gatehouse has earned an excellent track record in student accommodation; it’s an attractive investment sector that delivers good yields for our investors. We continue to actively look for investment opportunities to complement our current investment portfolio of student accommodation in Glasgow and Oxford.”

Gatehouse continues to provide an attractive portfolio of property investments for investor clients with more than 500 million US dollars in total real estate acquisitions. Gatehouse specializes in originating, structuring and funding investments in a Sharia compliant manner. To meet continuing investor demand for high quality property investments, Gatehouse provides leading advice and opportunities to investors across a diverse range of properties ranging from office, student and logistics sectors.

Trading Prices of Kuwait Stock Exchange Date of Closig Prices: 25/04/2012

Trading Prices of Kuwait StockStock Exchange Trading Prices of Kuwait Exchange

Global General Index KSE Price Index

LONDON: Gatehouse Bank plc, a Londonbased wholesale Sharia compliant investment bank, announced in a press release this week the successful delivery of its realized investment in UK real estate, through the sale of a two properties as part of a UK student accommodation portfolio in a deal worth 34.4 million Sterling pounds. The deal represents an excellent return for Gatehouse’s investors, who have benefited from an internal rate of return of 18.6 percent during the two year holding period, and a return on investment of 37.2 percent on exit.

Fahed Boodai, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Gatehouse Bank announced via an exclusive video link from London, “Over the past two years we have invested in the student accommodation sector on behalf of our investors, confident of the excellent return potential, which we believe we have successfully delivered in the realization of the UK student accommodation portfolio investment.”

Boodai added, “Gatehouse Bank was quick to seize the market opportunity to enable an impressive return on investment. We promised that we would deliver a solid return to our investors, and we have achieved that result yielding a 9.1 percent return in the first year, and an increase to 9.7 percent in the second year. When the time was right, we managed to deliver a successful exit result within two years, one year ahead of schedule as we have achieved our targeted returns. Importantly, we delivered the asset sale with a view to reward our investors with a profitable return on investment as a priority, rather than retain asset management fees for the additional holding period.

Gatehouse, has clearly demonstrated to its investor clients its ability to develop a commendable track record of transactional experience. This is due to our unrivalled expertise in the market, which includes a strong UK and US Real Estate team of originators, analysts, asset managers and a credit and market risk team who provide end-to-end commercial real estate solutions to investors. We have the capability to source and originate successful acquisitions, and also return

14.02 0.00 9.03 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 51.04 0.00 0.00 73.01 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 13.40 0.00 0.00 0.00 19.76 20.94 16.18 573.07

0.00 0.00 5.29 13.93 13.38 13.67 11.92 21.80 63.13 64711.96 13.38 50.32 13.63 16.47 22.83 10.78 15.16 23.37 29.41 0.00 15.34 422.48

116.65 0.00 12.82 8.00 219.94 0.00 0.00 26.88 439.41 0.00 0.00 19.29

20.11 7.29 13.08 19.53 31.52

Shuaiba Industrial

-

Global General Index 122 Metal Collecting Kuwait Foundry 345 KSE Price Index

120 345 226 88 Low 620 1,120 490 770 640 800 248 305 455 176 880 580 216 - 190 260 4074 170 300 12.5 52 420 - 730 76.0 - 108 158 - 108 138 - 2,420 130 108 49 - - 290 31.0 - 100 -18.0 - 75 - - 126 26.5 69.0

226 ACICO 91 United Industries Company High 620 Boubyan Petroch.

1,140 National Bank Gulf Glass Gulf Bank 495 Hilal Cement Commercial 770 Al Kout Ind.Bank Project Ahli Bank 640 K-PAK Ahli UnitedMaterial Bank 850 Building International 248 Nat. Ind.Co.Bank 305 460 Burgan Bank Equipment Holding 178 890 Kw Finance Industries House Consumer Boubyan Bank 590 Kuwait Gypsum Global Qurain Index - Banking216 Salbookh Trading Kw Investment - IKARUS 192 265 Commercial Facilit.

Boubyan Int'LAdv. Ind. 4177 Int'L Financial 174 National GlobalInvest.

Index - Industrial Kw Projects 300 National Cinema Ahlia Holding 13.5 Kw Hotels Coast Invest.

53 Agility 425 Int'L Investor Market Complexes Securities House ZAIN Ind. & Fin. Inv. - 750 Safat Energy 78.0 Securities Group Educational - Int'L Finance Group Indep. Petroleum 110 MARKAZ National Cleaning 166 KMIFIC Sultan - 112 Int'L Inv. Center Group Arabi Group 146 Aref Inv. Group City GroupDar Investment - Tele.

2,460 AlWataniya AMAN Inv. Kw Gulf Link 136 ALOLA Inv. 110 Kw Cable ALMAL Inv.Vision 50 Automated System - Gulf Inv. House NAPESCO - A'ayan Leasing KCPCInv. 290 32.5 Bayan GLOBAL K.S.H Inv. Osoul Eyas Inv. GULFINVEST - 102 Hits Telecom KFIC -19.0 Al Safwa Holding KAMCO - Human Soft Int'l Leasing & Holding Inv. Privatization 77 Nat. Int'l Holding - Nafaaes Holding - Housing NationalFinance Slaughter MADAR Aref energy 130 26.5 AlSafwan Deera Holding AlGulf Safat Inv. Petroleum 71.0 122.0 AlGulf Salam Group Franchising 27.5 114.0 24.5 41.0 - 39.0 Ekttitab Holding Credit & Collection -21.0 AlNational Qurain Holding -22.5 Ranges 16.5 Sokouk Holding 16.5 Burgan Well Drilling 255 248 Al-Madina Finance 40.0 38.5 IFA H&R NOOR 1,680 1,680 Combinted Group Tamdeen Inv. 160 158 84 84 Jeeran Holding KW BH Int'l Exch.

Palms Agro Taiba Kuwaiti Holding 73.0 73.0 Safat TEC Kuwait Syrian Trading Mushrif 106 100 Strategia 340 UPACChina Inv. 340 53 53 Kuwait ALAFCOInv. 300 295 Manafae Al-Muwasat - Gulf North Africa - Mashaer Holding 285 290 Amwal Fuel AlOula Masar - 265 - 260 Future Comm.

Al-Imtiaz 132 - 124 124 120 Hayat Comm.

Global Index - Investment 69 63 Mubarrad Transport Kuwait --KuwaitInsurance Resorts Gulf Insurance 810 Advanced Technolgy 810 Ahlia Insurance 365 365 Yiaco Medical 112 Warba Insurance 455 108 Al Jazeera Airways 450 Kuwait Re-Ins. Al Soor Fuel First Takaful Ins. Future Kid Wethaq Insurance 285 KGL 285 Global Index - Insurance82 82 Al Nawadi 48 Kuwait R.E. 48 Alrai Media United R.E. 100 - 100 Zima Holding 118 National 126 GlobalR.E. Index - Services 200 Salhia R.E. 204 LiveStock Pearl R.E. Trans.

Dana Al-Safat 22496 22495 Tamdeen R.E. United Poultry Ajial R.E. - Kw FoodStuff - Massaleh R.E. - United Food Arab R.E. 30.0 30.0 Kout R.E. Food - - Union 96 ERESCO Global Index - Food 98 860 840 Mabani Sharjah Cement 75 74 INJAZZAT RE Gulf Cement 87 86 12.0 11.5 Inv. Holding Grp Um Quwain Cement Int'L Resorts Fujaira Cement 78 77 Commercial R.E 126 126 Ras AlKheimah 70 65 Sanam R.E. ARIG 54 53 Aa'yan R.E United Gulf Bank 178 178 Aqar Egypt R.E Kw Holding - 290 Kuwait Holding - 290 Bahrain Kw Ins. 59 AL Mazaya 60 56.0 House 57.0 14.0 AlGulf DarFin. National R.E 14.0 InovestInt'L Holding 74 70 Themar - 172 Grand R.E Projects - 176 Ahli United Bank -37.5 Tijara & R.E Invest -39.0 Ithmaar Bank AlGlobal TameerIndex - Non-Kuwaiti Arkan Al-Kuwait R.E 70 70 Markaz Real Estate Safat Global AlInvestment Argan Int'L Funds 28.5 28.0 Abyaar Al-Bareeq Holding 23.5 - 23.5 Munshaat AFAQ First Dubai 26.0 - 25.5 Al-Shamel KBT 27.0 Al-Safat Real Estate 27.0 Manazel 16.533 15.531 Ajwan Real Estate REAM 550 Specialities Group 510 - Mena Real Inter.

Estate - Masaken Al Moudon Intl. R.E Dulaqan R.E Markaz Real Estate 57 56 Eid Food Kuwait Remal R.E 295 285 Maidan Clinic Global Index - Real Estate Flex Nationl Ind. Group 232 Dar Al-Thuraya Real E 242 Pipes Ind. & Oil Kw Medical Services 12870 12670 Kuwait Cement 455 450 Amar For Fin. & Leas.

Refrigeration Ind. Total Parallel Market 1,420 1,420 Gulf Cables & Elec.

Heavy & Ship.

Totaleng.

Market Marine Services GlobalCement Special Indices 720 Portland 720 GlobalIndustrial Index - Kuwaiti Co.'s Shuaiba 104 Metal Collecting 110 Cap. Global Index - 10 Large Kuwait Foundry Global Index - Islamic -

ŷ źŸ źŸ ŷ ź ŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ źŷ Ÿ ŷź źŸ źŷ ŷ źŷ ŷŷ źź źŸ źź Ÿ ŷ ŷ ŷ ź ŷ ŷ ŷ ŷ ź ŷ ŷ ŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷŸ ŷź ŷź ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ źŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷ ŷź ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷź ŷŷ ŷŷ ŷź ŷŷ ŷŷ Ÿź źŷ ŷŸ ŷ ź ź ŷ ŷ ŷ ź ź ŷ ŷ ŷ Ÿ ŷ Ÿ ŷ Ÿ ŷ ŷź ŷŷ ŷź ŷź źŷ źŷ Ÿ ŷŷ ŷŸ ŷ ź ź Ÿ ŷ ŷ ŷ ŷ ź Ÿ źŷ Ÿŷ Ÿź ź ŷŷ źŸ ŷŷ ŷŷ źŷ ŷŷ źŸ Ÿ ŷ Ÿ ź ź ŷ ŷ Ÿ Ÿ ź ŷ ź ŷ ŷ ź ŷ ź źŷ ŷŸ ŷŷ ŷŸ ŷŸ ź ŷ ŷ ŷ źŷ źŷ ź ŷŷ źź ŷŷ ŷ ŷ ŷ ŷ ź ŷ Ÿ ŷ ź źŷ ŷŸ źŷ ŷ ź ŷ ŷ ŷ ŷ ź ŷ

Last Close Previous Close - Change 216 216 177.24 -0.70 4,840 40,000 2 6 116 122 176.53 5 5,754.20 10,000 1 -27.30 3,450 340 3455,726.90 80,000 3 18,080 226 226 Last Prev.

Trading Activity -1 880,000 21 78,560 90 89 Close Close Chng - Volume 10,000 Tran.1 Value(KD) 620 620 6,200 3,796,050 - 1120 1120 69 3,377,500 1,100 1,100 20 495 495 - 830,000 407,950 216 216 770 770 10,000 1 7,700 - 415 415 640 -20 2 6,400 660 10,000 275 275 800 50 850 350,000 23 282,700 224 Ex-D 224 16 4 248 248 --5 700,000 173,600 60,000 310 305 18,300 460 465 -510 500,000 1046 229,750 168 3,980,000 178 708,320 890 -10 880 1,280,000 66 1,127,050 102 102 590 590 607,850 1,035,000 33 128 Ex-D 128 319.37 319.54 8,092,500 6,639,050 0.17- 216 560,000 24012 120,960 216 44 44 106 106 - - - - 192 40,000 190 7,640 260 265 -5-2 250,000 14 2 65,750 1,480,000 74 75 111,920 40 1,680,000 -1 1 67,160 41 1323 170 1,040,000 20 172 -2 177,720 9,432,500 194 0.171,671,250 167.97 168.14 300 110,000 5 33,000 295 5 960 960 7,040,000 12.5 12.5 46 90,920 280 280 1,280,000 22 52 53 -1 67,280 425 2,390,000 66 1,009,550 425 25.0 25.0 52 52 130 130 1,386,150 750 -10 1,875,000 740 106 31.0 31.0 880,000 78.0 15 67,720 78.0 230 230 110 110 -102 102 - - - 350 350 -108 112 73,920 680,000 18 344,000 2,120,000 164 160 4.0 50 50 -47 1,500,000 108 112 166,280 44.0 44.0 - -4 -43 142 7,700,000 1,105,000 140 144 52 52 --4 550 550 74 74 - - - - 37,500 2,460 91,700 2,460 28.5 28.5 -8 4,380,000 582,760 132 108 132 108 14 54,920 108 - 500,000 58 58 49 49.5 15,840 -1 320,000 4 300 300 23 - - 23 - - 330 330 71 - - 71 - - 290 104,400 360,000 290 31.0 31.0 58,760 1,840,000 2223 - 48.5 - 48.5 - - 255 255 - - 68 68 -Ex-D - 260 260 20.5 20.5 - -4 1,757,360 17,400,000 241 100 104 26.0 26.0 23,200,000 18.0 18.0 148 424,480 244 - 244 - - - 270 270 94 --2 94 -23 1,520,000 78 76 115,560 - - 51 51 - - 99 99 - 36 36 - - - 154 154 51 51 --6 15 126 132 440,000 56,320 26.5 26.5 2 6,360 240,000 540 540 75 75 -28 -70.0 70.0 2,480,000 173,640 8.0 120.0 112.0 1,305,280 2.0- 11,180,000 3,120,000 21239 27.0 25.0 80,560 2.039.5 41.5 24 77,080 1,920,000 120 120 19.0 19.0 - 1.0 194 1,084,280 21.5 22.5 49,360,000 16.5 5 7,920 16.5 480,000 2 7,510 -5 255 260 30,000 39.0 0.510,640,000 93 419,440 38.5 395 395 29.0 29.0 12,500 1,680 1,680 3 21,000 160 2.0158 12,680 80,000 4 -4 3 84 88 10,080 120,000 255 255 128 128 114 114 10 73.0 72.0 192,720 1.0 2,640,000 26.00 26.00 4 0 11 660 000 1 196 600 102 98 4.0 11,660,000 271 1,196,600 68 68 335 340 20,400 60,000 5.0 53 200,000 53 10,600 23 295 300 387,700 1,300,000 --5 60 -25 60 168 168 46.5 - - - - 46.5 295 290 186,050 650,000 64 --5 -21 64 260 13,050 265 50,000 42.50 --5 42.50 -3 265 265 128 130 -2 1,240,000 38 157,920 120 128,360 120 1,040,000 55840 76.02 0.1275.90 40,720,000 2,702,550 69 567,480 64 112 5 8,400,000 - - 325 325 - 47.0 47.0 --1 560 560 810 770 4,050 40.0 5,000 485 485 365 25,550 2 370 5.070,000 118 -8 120,000 110 6 13,200 455 94,700 5 450 5 210,000 220 220 Ex-D 236 236 114 114 108 108 Ex-D 40.50 40.50 285 205,200 285 40 720,000 43.63 43.43 0.19-1 120,000 61 13,200 82 3,280 81 40,000 1 3,840 49 -1 48 80,000 118 118 92,000 9 100 99 1 920,000 98 98 383,920 124 120 4 105 3,100,000 1,788 747.11 11,613,490 752.46 145,770,000 5.3512 104,680 200 204 -4 520,000 184 184 37.5 37.5 - - - - 95 7,640 80,000 96 32 224 10.0-1 100,000 22,400 234 136 136 120 120 - 1,360 1,360 82 - - - 82 - 340 340 1 30.0 80,000 30.5 0.52,400 560 560 - 108 108 - - 31,160 0.14 7,640 334.98 334.84 80,000 -1 320,000 98 97 82 1,656,950 10 1,935,000 850 57 860 80 80 2 8,960 120,000 2 75 73 88 1,960,000 169,880 86 14 -2 15 23,960 11.5 12.0 0.52,000,000 69 Ex-D 69 38.0 38.0 91 91 3 18,520 78 77 1 240,000 126 122 280,000 4 3 35,280 67,400 17 1,000,000 65 70 -5 114 114 4 10,720 54 -1 55 200,000 178 178 20,000 3,560 90 - -1 90 5 29,000 290 295 100,000 6 38.0 38.0 455 Ex-D 455 11 59 26,160 440,000 -4 63 57.0 745,120 57.0 126 13,280,000 1 80,000 1,120 14.0 14.5 0.5- 91 91 17,320,000 71 1,263,440 170 74 3 -41 17.5 17.5 549,520 174 174 3,160,000 31.0 31.036.5 39.0 41,200,000 211 1,580,760 3 59 59 4,376,560 43.39 0.12 43.52 77,320,000 572 -4 320,000 2 22,400 70 74 122 122 - - - 48.5 48.5 - - - 124 124 12 0.52,720,000 76,880 28.0 28.5 144 144 1.0- 80,000 1 1,880 23.5 24.5 106 106 0.5240,000 6,160 3 26.0 25.5 250 250 Ex-D 35,040,000 946,080 - 4 27.0 27.0 19.0 19.0 1,200,000 83 1.019,240 16.5 15.5 7,640 33 240,000 33 -1 134 134 73 437,900 825,000 520 520 - - 134 134 51 51 220 220 345 345 -1 240,000 6 13,520 57 58 106 106 47 610,850 295 290 5 2,110,000 2,260 2,260 0.02- - 53,085,000 - 332 4,151,200 49.73 49.75 39.5 39.5 232 92.0 128 70 450 55 150 1,420 335 212 720 ź 180 ź 104 460 ź

242 -10 13,220,000 - 154 92.0 128 -5 140,000 62 65 80,000 470 20 50,000 2 55 150 1,145,000 78 1,460 -40 2,500 1 335 - 550,860,0005,505 212 Close Prev. Close 720 230,000 19 191.02 180 190.12 186.223 106 185.04-2 80,000 460 565.27 570.59

DTD 216 -0.40% 124 116 340 -0.47% 350 226 228 Last Last 89 88 Bid610 Ask 620 1,120 1,140 1,100 490 495 222 216 770 780 390 640 660 255 840 850 246 248 305 310 460 465 178 880 870 590 580 218 216 102 106 190 194 260 265 4075 4076 172 168 295 300 960 1,000 12.5 13.0 51 52 415 425 750 - 740 33.5 76.0 78.0 - - 325 355 106 110 162 164 - 108 - 110 138 140 560 2,460 2,480 27.0 29.5 130 132 110 108 49 5057 295 320 21 24 320 - 290 285 31.0 32.5 - 250 64.0 - 99 - 100 - 17.5 - 18.5 - 238 270 -75 -76 - 54 102 - 184 128 126 26.0 27.0 540 520 70.0 69.0 120.0 118.0 26.5 24.5 39.0 130 20.0 18.0 22.5 22.0 16.0 16.5 250 38.5 39.0 400 385 1,700 1,680 156 160 84 88 270 126 73.0 74.0 27 102 104 63 73 340 350 53 52 295 300 61 178 47 - 290 285 69 - 260 - 265 265 124.0 128.0 122 120 69 325 300 49.0 46.5 610 510 460 500 375 365 108 114 450 460 234 236 110 106 108 43.0 280 285 85 82 49 48 120 112 100 99 106 126 122 202 200 37.5 22496 -95 126 110 130 1,360 1,380 85 350 - 290 31.5 540 580 112 118 95 98 860 870 76 71 11.5 12.0 85 87 35.5 37.0 62 64 77 79 92 86 65 126 130 53 54 116 108 91 186 40.5 - 174 290 295 60 14.5 13.5 9457 9056 - 74 - 73 33.5 30.0 172.0 174.0 57 70 74 116 126 28.0 28.5 25.0 23.5 25.0 25.5 255 24.5 28.0 16.5 20.5 15.532 16.035 130 520 530 29 3250 218 55 57 80 290 295 42.0 3,111,120 232 -93.0 17,800 12260 130 5,600 22,550 455 465 150 451,140 3,550 1,420 1,440 310 340 38,599,110 216 Change 710 DTD 165,600 720 -0.89 -0.47% 178 190 -1.18 104 -0.63% 8,480 108 435 -5.31 -0.93%

MTD YTD 0.0% 216 180 13.22 -1.55% -1.55% 0.0% 120 102 495 0.0% 315 -1.50% -1.50% 230 2.2% 196 28.05 Div. Annual Close 0.0% 102 79 36.43 Yield High630 Low550 P/E 0.0% 88.41 3.6% 1,120 14.74 1,400 1,100 1,100 17.40 3.6% 0.0% 510 490 33.95 216 206 12.38 6.9% 1.9% 790 770 88.62 340 9.94 415 8.4% 3.1% 660 640 17.34 300 275 5.20 0.0% 1.6% 850 790 29.68 228 35.32 2.2% 224 0.0% 255 248 23.59 260 24.93 325 3.3% 0.0% 475 46051 12.26 152 0.0% 2.3% 900 88093 25.07 102 0.0% 0.0% 590 590 18.88 128 112.24 128 5.5% 2.0% 18.61 222 318.41 210 13.15 0.0% 319.54 0.00 0.0% 0.0% 10651 10641 40.56 162 214 16.94 4.2% 8.5% 265 260 12.09 0.0% 0.0% 4288 4070 0.0% 174 170 88.93 163.04 13.80 174.76 2.8% 6.7% 305 295 12.13 18.02 910 4.4% 1,120 0.0% 13.5 12.5 1.33 280 0.0% 280 0.0% 54 52 430 16.45 340 7.1% 0.0% 25.0 25.0 0.00 65 41 0.00 0.0% 0.0% 130 130 900 690 11.15 8.8% 0.0% 36.0 31.0 81.0 45.0 0.0% 0.0% 230 230 110 110 58.86 0.0% 0.0% 102 102 0.00 295 350 0.0% 9.3% 116 108 170 20.96 110 3.0% 0.0% 50 50 0.00 102 136 0.0% 0.0% 44.0 44.0 0.00 11.83 132 0.0% 0.0% 52 5284 0.00 530 550 0.0% 0.0% 74 74 0.00 1,920 12.84 2,440 2.0% 0.0% 28.5 28.5 0.00 0.0% 132 0.0% 112 10895 0.00 0.0% 0.0% 5168 4958 230 22.18 8.3% 350 0.0% 23 22 7.6% 340 8.13 395 0.0% 71 71 0.00 3.4% 260 9.91 305 0.0% 31.5 31.0 0.0% 48.5 48.5 7.1% 255 12.82 260 0.0% 68.0 68.0 32.31 260 260 4.79 7.7% 0.0% 20.5 20.554 329.58 0.0% 132 0.0% 26.0 26.0 0.00 14.0 0.0% 23.5 0.0% 244 244 270 12.91 280 0.0% 0.0% 9484 9461 0.00 13.46 6.6% 0.0% 51 5184 116.80 0.0% 104 0.0% 36 36 0.00 154 9.95 0.0% 154 0.0% 51 5191 0.00 0.0% 120 0.0% 26.5 27.5 520 13.11 5.0% 710 0.0% 75 75 0.00 30.0 10.87 0.0% 78.0 99.0 0.0% 120.0 16.0 0.0% 28.5 19.5 0.0% 41.5 120 0.0% 140 19.0 0.0% 19.0 0.00 22.5 0.0% 12.0 0.0% 17.0 16.5 41.84 198 0.0% 275 0.0% 39.0 38.0 86.17 490 380 0.0% 0.0% 29.0 0.00 % 29.0 15.98 1,740 1,500 4.2% 156 8.28 3.8% 162 5.58 0.0% 89 73 255 22.77 255 5.1% 14.84 7.8% 126 86 11.92 114 0.0% 114 0.0% 78.0 57.0 26 0.0% 28 0 0% 0 00 0.0% 104 0.00 6880 43.00 0.0% 68 340 12.34 8.8% 270 53 0.0% 55 280 3.4% 315 3.86 60 0.0% 60 130 7.71 6.0% 168 47 10.8% 47 172 4.5% 10.32 305 64 0.0% 64 21.12 0.0% 305 265 42.5 0.00 0.0% 42.5 300 128.0 18.62 265 0.0% 0.0% 132.0 5.19 0.0% 124 75.90 70 10.01 2.4% 76.32 0.0% 72 51 16.97 6.2% 325 325 0.0% 62.0 44.0 20.47 12.90 4.5% 560 560 1.9% 770 640 33.57 9.91 5.2% 520 485 4.1% 390 11.96 345 17.37 9.1% 118 110 485 410 9.48 0.0% 296.83 220 220 2.7% 0.0% 270 236 17.36 0.0% 134 114 4.6% 14.91 98 114 40.5 0.0% 40.5 300 218 8.72 7.0% 12.60 4.7% 44.80 92 43.43 77 7.12 8.5% 37.20 0.0% 49 48 114 156 21.95 0.0% 12.83 0.0% 100 9994 0.0% 110 0.0% 120 22.21 128 791.90 705.36 11.42 12.1% 10.0% 200 17.83 208 182 15.27 222 0.0% 0.0% 37.5 37.5 114 0.0% 4.5% 234 22490 16.20 126 6.02 3.7% 136 0.0% 130 120 1,360 11.38 4.8% 1,500 6.1% 82 82 5.29 390 44.60 340 1.5% 0.0% 30.5 30.0 500 10.04 5.4% 610 6.5% 108 108 15.28 365.22 334.34 11.38 4.2% 0.0% 100 96 39.65 0.0% 860 840 21.70 0.0% 44 95 0.0% 76 73 55 0.0% 108 0.0% 0.00 12.5 11.5 73 43 32.06 10.1% 0.0% 38.0 38.0 46 0.0% 122 0.0% 78 14.56 77 118 11.30 7.9% 126 0.0% 75 65 102 0.0% 132 54 26.32 0.0% 55 172 0.0% 232 387.72 0.0% 90 90 6.9% 330 250 6.46 0.0% 38.0 38.0 5.5% 455 0.00 455 63 0.0% 59 0.0% 74.0 541.46 40.5 14.5 4.15 14.0 0.0% 0.0% 5.5% 91 91 17.5 17.5 0.0% 9.60 6.9% 0.0% 31.0 31.0 19.44 0.0% 0.0% 59 59 47.16 40.74 8.89 4.2% 0.0% 78 70 11.37 1,220 1,220 0.0% 0.00 48.5 48.5 0.0% 144 124 5.38 0.0% 29.0 28.0 27.28 0.0% 0.0% 24.5 23.5 4.7% 5.03 0.0% 26.0 25.5 6.0% 13.99 0.0% 28.5 27.0 0.0% 0.0% 16.5 15.5 0.0% 3.7% 134 134 23.07 5.5% 16.69 0.0% 32 32 0.0% 220 0.0% 220 18.82 0.0% 816.78 57 60 0.00 0.0% 0.0% 9.98 0.0% 295 270 0.00 0.0% 1.1% 49.86 49.73 16.27 0.0% 22.19 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 2.2% 0.0% 3.3% 0.6% 4.6% 3.0% 4.69% 2.4% 13.9% 5.6% 0.0% 4.3%

232 260 130 128 470 450 158 150 1,460 1,420 340 335 212 222 MTD 710 740 -1.58% 180 180 -2.75% 104 116 460 460 1.01%

70.58 18.38

14.56 6.49 8.02 14.75 193.84 YTD 96.15 0.30% 10.91 -2.66% 23.15 26.77 0.58%

STOCKS WITH NBK CAPITAL

12

ALWATAN DAILY thursday, april 26, 2012

April 2009 April21, 25, 2012

1% 6%

1% 6% Oman

-1%

-6%

Kuwait Dubai

90

Oman

GCC Best Performers

Saudi

95 25-Jan-12 85

25-Feb-12

25-Mar-12

MENA Best Performers

-1%

25-Apr-12

-6%-2

S&P Pan 3-Feb-09 Arab Large/ 18-Feb-09 Mid Composite S&P GCC Large/ Mid Composite 19-Jan-09 5-Mar-09 20-Mar-09 4-Apr-09 19-Apr-0

1

MENA Indices Highlights Country (Index)

Index Level

% Chg.

Sa Saudi Arabia (Tadawul All Share Index) Country (Index)

Index 7,542

UASa UAE (ADX Index) Saudi Arabia (Tadawul All Share Index)

2,512 5,250

Qa UAUAE Qatar (DSM Index) (ADSM Index)

8,653 2,695

Ku Kuwait (KSE Weighted Index)

UAE (DFM(KSE Index) Ku Kuwait Weighted Index)

OmOman UAE(MSM (DFMIndex) Index)

Level 420

Ba Bahrain (BSE Index)

Le Lebanon (Beirut SE Index)

Jo Jordan (Amman General Index)

Pa Palestine (Al-Quds Index)

M Morocco (Casa All Shares Index)*

Tu Tunisia (Tunis SE Index)

Le Lebanon (Beirut SE Index)* *Market Closed

Pa Palestine (Al-Quds Index)

5,478

1,681

10,324

463

1,177

2,825 470

10,621

5,082

1,094

3,282

-0.1% 0.6% 0.0% 3.9% -

5.1%

0.0%

0.4%

-0.4%

0.7%

-

2.2%

0.1%

0.1%

-

-

0.9% -

467

52 Wk Low

Turnover USD million

52 Wk 5,916 Low

Turnover 2,387 USD million

396

PE

Mkt. Cap. 393,411 USD million

139

Trailing

8,892 5,148

8,071 2,137

107 122

124,732 69,783

11.36 7.29

0 196

17,211 65,352

9.02 8.85

10

27,599

13.74

-

63,640

7.67

6,372 5,860

0.3% -18.8%

35.5%

0.7%

1,129 4,230

2,214

1,921

12,109

-6.8%

2,903

-7.2%

12,203

8.5%

1,033

0.0%

1,403

2.4%

5,044

-1.5%

513

-3.3%

14,635

23.6%

739

6.8%

5,115

-7.2%

2,119

13.6%

3,418

122 718

5,419 1,433

1,407 12,627 5,628

0.5%

1,301 316

11 305

3,587

-

4,224

1,572

10,233

328

1,164

2,551 465

9,406

1,043

-

2,837

-

407

18,202 37,413

4

18,727

1.68

1.61

8.07

10,522

33,782

12.71

8

10,060

15.56

2

2,079

1

1.34

1.29

15.12

2

67

3.22

1.56

6.32

2,517

0.85

2.15

9.04

59,990

1.15

18.36

8,507

3.95

1.77

6.47

0.86

8.67

6,576

MENA Worst Performers

2.50

13.85

1.92

SAUDI ARABIA *Market Closed

SULSultan Center Food Products Co.

225 Saudi Industrial Inv. Grp.

101 Riyad Bank

115

SAR 24.70

-6.4%

168,255,600

Turnover (USD)

163,065,446

115 Alinma Bank (KSA)

343,553,085 145,841,339

201 Basic Industries City Corp.(KSA) (KSA) 422Saudi Emaar the Economic

119,955,261 107,909,506

115 Bank (KSA) 201Alinma Saudi Basic Industries Corp. (KSA)

97,126,838

NBKNational Bank of Kuwait (KUW)

88,742,222

1020.SSE Bank Al Jazira

28.30

4220.SSE Emaar the Economic City

1 Alinma Bank

S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

546,948,774

42Emaar the Economic City

25-Apr-12

% Chg.

22.90

53.50

4.3%

3.9%

23.90

3.5%

2.9%

13.40

Turnover (SAR) 653,892,863 3050.SSE Southern Province Cement Co. 631,008,977 4190.SSE Jarir Marketing Co. 611,544,341 1050.SSE Banque Saudi Fransi

42Jabal Omar Development Co.

25-Mar-12

Close

2.7%

Worst Performers

43Dar Al Arkan Real Estate Dev. Co.

25-Feb-12

64,280,166

2290.SSE Yanbu National Petrochemicals Co.

Highest Turnover

105

-6.8%

174,357,482

425 Jabal Omar Development Co. (KSA)

1,475,370,165

Market Cap. (SAR '000)

114

-3.1% -8.9%

Turnover (USD)

MENA Highest Turnover

8,953,096

Turnover (SAR '000)

116

-4.6%

-3.0% -8.6%

430 Dar Al Arkan Real Estate Dev. Co. (KSA)

7,931 / 5,916 2250.SSE Saudi Industrial Investment Grp.

Tadawul Index 52 week High / Low

8.0%

AED 1.31 SAR 48.00

SAR 13.70

GCC Highest Turnover

2.00

Advance/Decline Ratio

3.9%

8.0%

% Chg.

KWD 0.315 SAR 22.95

80% 4250.SSE Jabal Omar Development Co.

% of stocks trading above 1yr avg. price

3.9% 8.6%

AED 1.14 -13.1% -3.4% KWD 0.265

7,542 (0.4%)

Tadawul Index (% Chg.)

125

4.3% 8.8%

KWD -3.6% Close0.108 % Chg.

EMAEmaar Properties (UAE) Best Performers

Summary

4.7% 9.8%

KWD 0.126

KFI Kuwait Finance House (KUW)

Rebased Performance

95 25-Jan-12

Close

AREAREF Energy Holding Co.

0.88 201 TAQ Abu Dhabi 1.74 Saudi Basic National IndustriesEnergy Corp. Co.

9.50

56,970

OMR 0.720

GCC Worst Performers

1.89 FAC DFM Dubai Financial Market 1.37 Commercial Facilities Co. 1.60 KPR Kuwait Projects Co. (Holding) 0.88 238 Rabigh Petrochem.

9.55

15,024

2

1.04 1.77

10.54 6.87

56,858

46

-

4,091

8.63 10.24

34,716 98,547

2.00

0.79 1.52

-1.4% 12.8%

1,754 787

66,354 264,263

QAR 21.60

BKMBankMuscat

PB

10.77 9.99

24 2,183

SAR 53.50

QGTQatar Gas Transport Co.

PB1.44

2,293 4,130

KWD 0.106 QAR 6.35

229 Yanbu National Petrochemicals Co.

PE 14.35

2,775 10,090

SAR 22.90 OMR 0.703

IFC International Finance Co. KCB Al Khaliji Commercial Bank

12.99

101,518

QAR5.60 17.59 SAR

425Galfar Jabal Engineering Omar Development Co. GEC & Contracting

Trailing

Mkt. Cap. USD million

4.5% 9.3%

3.8% 6.6%

546

Tu Tunisia (Tunis SE Index)* * Market Closed

0.3% -4.0%

3.4%

-0.7% 1.9%

2,003

Eg Egypt (Hermes Egypt Index (HFI))*

-0.4%

5,914 1,745 4,908

52 Wk 7,931 High

17.5% YTD

22.7% -0.2%

Jo Jordan (Amman General Index)

M Morocco (Casa All Shares Index)

% 0.4% Chg.

-0.6% 1.8%

1,148 5,590

OmOman (MSM Index)

YTD

1,660 406

Ba Qa Bahrain Qatar(BSE (DSMIndex) Index)

Eg Egypt (EGX 30 Index)*

52 Wk High

% Chg.

USD 0.145% Chg. 7.4% Close

AHC Aamal Co. 3 428 Kingdom Hldg. Co.

Period's Liquidity Ratio (PLR x)*

MENA Indices Highlights

Close

4 ITH Ithmaar Bank

Period's Liquidity 1 Ratio (PLR x)

-1

Abu Dhabi

-4%

Tunisia Abu Dhabi

95

-2%

Bahrain Bahrain Qatar

0%

100

Kuwait

Abu Dhabi

0%

100

105

0%

Palestine Palestine

Return DailyDaily Return (%)(%)

110

0%

Saudi

Abu Dhabi Dubai

Dubai Dubai

110

2%

Qatar Saudi Saudi

105

Qatar

Oman Qatar

111 114

4%

Oman Morocco

115110

Kuwait Lebanon

113

Kuwait

113

DailyIndex Index Performance Snapshot Daily Performance Snapshot

Jordan Jordan

120115

Bull/Bear Indicator Bull/Bear Indicator

Bahrain Bahrain

Rebased RebasedPerformance Performance

404,693,020

20Saudi Basic Industries Corp.

1040.SSE Saudi Hollandi Bank 2050.SSE Savola Group Co.

Close

% Chg.

102.25

160.50 38.10

28.70

34.50

-2.6%

-1.8%

-1.3%

-1.0%

-0.9%

Saudi SE

Quotes Company Name 1 Al Rajhi Bank

1 Alinma Bank 2 Almarai Co.

1 Arab National Bank

1 Bank AlBilad

1 Bank Al Jazira

Close 78.50

15.15

64.25

30.60

30.80

28.30

Daily % Chg. 0.6%

0.0%

0.0%

0.0%

2.3%

2.9%

High 79.00

15.25

64.75

30.90

31.20

28.50

Low 77.75

15.05

Turnover (SAR '000) 70,633

611,544

Volume ('000) 899

40,322

4,651

121

40.00

30.00

13.60

6.20

27.60

27,745

11.60

653,893

68.00

151,656

160.50

15,701

35.20

53,699

985

13.40

2.7%

13.55

13.00

546,949

21.95

631,009

12.00

19,551

1,595

22.65

31,115

1,366

50.25

18,385

33.50

35,133

4 Jabal Omar Development Co. 4 Jarir Marketing Co.

4 Kingdom Holding Co.

2 National Industrialization Co.

2 Rabigh Refining & Petrochemical Co.

1 Riyad Bank

1 Samba Financial Grp.

22.90

160.50 12.30

35.50

22.80

25.00

1.7%

0.3%

0.2%

0.4%

180.75

180.00

16,041

0.2%

103.00

102.25

404,693

0.0%

13.80

13.70

35,389

-0.8%

1 Saudi Hollandi Bank

28.70

-1.0%

2 1 Saudi Investment Bank 2 Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Co. 7 Saudi Telecom Co. 2

21.75

0.5%

22 Saudi Industrial Investment Grp.

Saudi International Petrochemical Co.

Savola Group Co. 0 3 Southern Province Cement Co. 0 1 SABB 3 Yamama Saudi Cement Co.

2 Yanbu National Petrochemicals Co. 7 Zain - Saudi Arabia

13.75

23.90 18.80

18.00

35.60

22.85

20,915

95.50

5 Saudi Electricity Co.

12.50

24.90

0.3%

102.75

23.35

163.00

25.00

33.60

2 Saudi Basic Industries Corp.

70.00

0.4%

-0.5%

180.75

3 Saudi Cement Co.

4.3%

-1.8%

50.50

2 Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Co.

1 Saudi Arabian Mining Co.

0.4%

51.25

34.10

96.50

28.90

23.00

0.0%

18.95

18.70

3,986

1.1%

18.05

0.0%

34.50

11,030

36.30

1,118

10,990

51.00

49.90

42,044

-0.5%

9.75

145,299

102.25

50.00

3.9%

17.75

107.00

-2.6%

0.6%

37,284

114,078

102.25

-0.9%

21.55

42.30

42.90

53.50

9,699

24.20

-0.5%

36.70

28.40

24,839

3.5%

42.40

34.50

95.00

97,080

21.80

34.90

36.70

54.00 9.90

-6.4%

17.20

4 Emaar the Economic City

69.00

-10.5%

32.90

204

38.10

7 Etihad Etisalat Co.

48.41

9.05

3,157

6,275

38.50

11.85

71.75

16.25

96,054

30.50

-1.3%

0.0%

67.25

29.90

393

52.00 9.65

130,417 292,128

33.70

31.90

26.60

50.75

11.10 7.05

35.10

-6.1%

-30.0%

-11.0%

24.25

98.00

55.50

29.30

21.42

89

200.00

165.00

3,942

112.00

87.75

2,575

16.30

338

4.3%

-2.7%

42.40

23.10

260

13.1%

82.3%

88.5%

15.3%

39.0%

-12.8%

-15.5%

3.4%

47.50

-39.9%

-28.6%

5.25

-15.2%

75.7%

29,972

11.50

41.60

-4.9%

0.8

1.5

9.5

2.6

17.8

9.9

nmf

nmf

8.3

nmf

11.9

10.6

2.4

1.7

1.7

2.4

1.2

1.6

-7.8%

308,250,000

10.7

2.1

-0.7%

57,290,665

23.8

1.1

31,080,000

14,611,500

11,391,030

nmf

15.4

11.2

1.8

5.0

1.5

-5.5%

10,755,000

21.7

1.7

-1.6%

10,340,000

14.6

1.2

-2.4%

61.7%

-20.7%

nmf

5.0

18.9%

20.2%

11.5

1.8

11.1

-4.2%

-2.8%

37,500,000

31.3

45,187,500

18.8%

83.25

56.25

3.3%

25.4%

838

2,453

-3.8%

-0.5%

63.25

34.20

19,788,711

1.2%

106.75 46.30

45,582,352

10.4%

-11.0%

105 31

-7.3%

9,630,000

12.9%

16.4%

23.70

42.2%

21,283,260

15.6%

-1.1%

-10.5%

33.00

51.4%

-2.0%

-15.6%

15.50

60.2%

48,300,000

67.5%

15.55

35.50

11,390,000

32.6%

6.8%

21.00

318

95.6%

-2.6%

-8.3%

212

42.60

1.8

12,690,000

22.6%

2.7%

25.8%

2,679

11.8

8,490,000

32.8%

-12.1%

21.30

34,443,081

-10.4%

18.55

8,107

2.0%

45,450,000

-9.6%

1.6

2.7

-7.8%

7.3%

12.0

1.4

28.3

8.4%

-7.1%

nmf

9,240,000

19,972,800

12.85

17.75

26,010,000

-23.0%

27.20 24.45

22,725,000

-1.9%

4,089 1,721

-8.4%

66.5%

27.8%

-1.5%

-23.5%

37.50

3.6

31.4%

26.90

1,040

22.4

0.4%

-4.8%

21.20

56.75

25,700,000

30.6%

839

362

17.6%

62.1%

105.50

29.80

3.6

48.5%

-15.2%

165.00

1,516

11.3%

55.2%

PB

16.0

6.05

50.00

13.10

12.3%

Trailing PE

117,750,000

46.3%

68.75

21.95

-9.2%

62.0%

Market Cap. (SAR '000)

1.9%

67.0%

2,200 97

-6.8%

13.0%

12 mths

-11.3%

13.85

27,815

-5.1%

YTD

15.75

55,603 41,036

on high

82.75

25,239

38.10

11.75

% Change

Low

63.75

1 Banque Saudi Fransi

4 Dar Al Arkan Real Estate Dev. Co.

52-Week High

25.9%

-9.8%

-20.0%

21.6%

4.4%

-14.2%

40.3%

7,975,000

27,000,000

10.8 nmf

1.5

1.8

84,800,000

11.1

1.8

14,315,000

15.0

5.9

17,250,000

36,700,000

13.6

12.7

10,125,000

13.8

13,650,000

nmf

30,093,750

9.5

2.1

2.1

3.0

2.9

3.5

STOCKS WITH NBK CAPITAL

13

ALWATAN DAILY thursday, april 26, 2012

KUWAIT Rebased Performance

Summary

Best Performers 6,337 (0.1%)

KSE General Index (% Chg.)

120

420 (-0.4%)

Advance/Decline Ratio

0.35 KAMCO.KSKIPCO Asset Management Co. 6,523 / 5,694 SRE.KSE Salhia Real Estate Co.

53%

% of stocks trading above 1yr avg. price

115

114

KSE General Index 52 week High / Low

Turnover (KWD) 1,942,000

ZA Zain Kuwait

1,386,150

A Agility

1,009,550

1,123,350

K Kuwait International Bank

25-Feb-12

25-Mar-12

25-Apr-12

S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

3.9%

0.880

2.3%

0.285

1.8%

0.236

1.7%

1.260

1.6%

Worst Performers

IFInternational Finance Co.

95 25-Jan-12

PCEM.KSE Kuwait Portland Cement Co.

Highest Turnover

100

% Chg.

0.106

28,211,813

Market Cap. (KWD '000) 104

International Finance Co.

38,653

Turnover (KWD '000)

105

IFC.KSE

467 / 396 CABLE.KSEGulf Cable and Electrical Industries Co.

KSE Weighted Index 52 week High / Low

110

Close

KSE Weighted Index (% Chg.)

603,650

K Kuwait Finance House

Close

% Chg.

AREFENRGAREF Energy Holding Co.

0.126

-4.6%

KPROJ.KSEKuwait Projects Co. (Holding)

0.315

-3.1%

SULTAN.KSSultan Center Food Products Co.

0.108

KCEM.KSE Kuwait Cement Co.

-3.6%

0.450

ABAR.KSE Burgan Co. for Well Drilling

-2.2%

0.255

-1.9%

KSE Weighted Index

Quotes Company Name

Close

Daily % Chg.

High

Low

Turnover (KWD '000)

A Agility

0.425

0.0%

0.425

0.420

1,010

T Al Themar Intl. Holding Co.

0.087

0.0%

0.087

0.087

7

A AREF Energy Holding Co.

0.126

A Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait

0.600

A Alafco Aviation Lease and Fin. Co. B Boubyan Bank

B Boubyan Petrochemical Co. B Burgan Bank

0.295

-1.7%

0.590

0.0%

0.0%

0.435

0.255

C Commercial Bank of Kuwait

0.790

F Commercial Facilities Co. G Global Investment House

1.680

0.0%

-1.9%

K Kuwait Cement Co.

0.450

K Kuwait Projects Co. (Holding)

0.315

-3.1%

M Mabanee Co.

M Mena Holding

0.880 1.000 1.080

N National Industries Co.

S The Securities House N Wataniya

Z Zain Kuwait

-31.6%

101

230 -

0.190

8

0.455

0.450

0.750 -

0.450

95

0.280

31

0.450

27

0.740

604

0.265

1,123

-

0.275

0.242

110

0.295

210

0.485

60

-

-56.2%

0.236

-3.4%

0.415

-26.0%

0.350

0.236

-22.9%

0.281

-22.2%

1.360

-0.9%

0.228

0.226

353

1,560

0.285

0.132

377

2,780

0.216

121

560

0.108

166

0.088

39

-1.9%

0.305

0.305

0.148

0.146

0.138 0.265

0.260

0.216

22

0.242

0.234

344

0.0%

0.238

0.234

94

-

-

-

0.730

1,386

-3.6%

0.088

-1.1%

2.460

0.0%

-

-1.3%

0.112 0.089

2.460

2.420

0.750

4.0

139,559

9.8

0.9 2.7

0.0%

64,309

nmf

nmf

-16.8%

-10.2%

179,283

nmf

3.9%

-24.1% 28.4%

-58.4%

0.0%

273.0%

-2.2%

-25.0%

-8.1%

-11.7%

16.8%

-11.2%

264,513

3.7

100,100 75,041

9.5

nmf

3.9

286,945

20.1

1.9

546,723

11.4

1.9

5.9%

-20.6%

280,078

8.6%

-21.3%

0.226

1.5

1.0

2,149,081

0.168

7.3

16.9

-26.0%

nmf

0.8 0.9

35.7

1.2

25.8

1.3

6.1%

-4.2%

4,701,777

15.5

2.1

-20.0%

-12.3%

-20.0%

295,283

nmf

0.056

-20.2%

4.7%

21.8%

0.186

-4.4%

0.260

0.270

0.216

0.0%

-10.3% -48.8%

0.0%

8.9%

-15.1%

-4.1%

13.5%

0.1

24.9

1.4

0.8

nmf

0.7

nmf

0.7

2.0

8.3%

121,003

16.9

0.9

1.7%

-10.0%

87,310

22.8

0.9

0.0%

0.0%

88,400

nmf

0.067

-9.3%

14.3%

-0.8%

26.8%

-38.3%

2.3

127,927 -

0.7

21.1

-10.0%

0.690

14.0

85,722

0.9%

-20.6%

1.880

105,592

-47.9% -11.9%

0.0%

21,780

-7.6%

-13.3%

-13.3%

421,021

0.0%

-27.8%

0.093

-

-44.3%

3.1

142,500 85,106

1.8%

1.9

4.2

0.144

1.200

16.7%

1.0

29.4

400

1,875

1,004,898

-30.7%

1.5

611,189

0.260

2.480

36.5

41.0%

0.200

38

53,454

1.2

13.3

37.8

0.192

-

34.3

1,158,558

-5.7%

0.097

-16.0%

300,762

1.4

1.3

0.246

-

-45.7%

4.3

nmf

31.5

1,440

440

8.8%

nmf

79,996

-

0.136

94,500

1.5

-19.0%

27.9%

0.360

1,500

-16.0%

0.0%

5.0%

5.8

-9.5%

-2.0%

0.285

50

92

16.4

23.9%

0.340

480

13

162,339

-44.3%

-

60

70

0.660

0.405

-

18

1.7%

1.580

70

-28.6%

0.720

0.909

65

-6.2%

1.000 1.620

4,160

0.096

0.120

0.630

805

-

-8.5%

11.8%

1.145

-

6.3%

-11.2%

0.138

313

-

672,061

0.214

334

0.315

-15.4%

40

1.060

0.320

-3.8%

-11.3%

-20.2%

1.0

1,031,459

-25.0%

0.285

1.9

-1.7%

1.240

0.495

0.5

20.0

0.0%

1.680

-20.3%

907,944

230,033

28

0.425

0.0%

-22.4%

-10.9%

18,820

-

-6.3%

0.019

0.552

1.080

-

0.108

0.740

0.192

35

-22.4%

-4.6%

0.055

0.0%

0.0%

0.130

1.240

-

0.691

0.146

0.234

1.260

-

1.020

-1.6%

0.236

-

0.700

155

0.305

0.260

-

0.940

156

0.0%

A The Commercial Real Estate Co.

0.255

-

0.198

1.000

0.216

T Tamdeen Real Estate Co.

0.380

-

0.420

1.020

-1.5%

S Sultan Center Food Products Co.

100

-

30

0.530

0.0%

0.134

S Salhia Real Estate Co.

26

-

0.630

56

N National Real Estate Co.

A Qurain Petrochemicals Industries Co.

0.0%

-13.6%

10

0.085

0.850

0.228

O Oula Fuel Marketing Co.

-16.0%

1.300

0.132

0.880

N National Industries Grp. Holding N National Investments Company

20.3%

0.280

2.3%

0.033

N National Bank of Kuwait

-39.3%

1.945

0.290

-1.8%

P Kuwait Portland Cement Co.

10.7%

13

1.8%

-

-1.6%

440

8

0.248

1,942

0.270

1.360

18.9%

21

0.255

0.100

K Kuwait International Bank

F Kuwait Food Co.

-4.5%

-17.0%

0.106

-2.2%

nmf

0.410

3.9%

-1.3%

88,088

0.524

-

0.740

-13.0%

580

-

K Kuwait Finance House

-4.4%

6

-

0.285

-16.3%

250

-

1.1%

0.079

-8.7%

0.430

0.395

0.455

0.104

0.590

0.435

0.440

0.106

80

0.657

-4.8%

0.440

JAJazeera Airways

16.5

0.530

-1.1%

-1.0%

444,906

0.620

0.440

0.190

0.0%

375

0.620

PB

13.3%

222

0.620

PE

-2.3%

-

56

Trailing

Market Cap. (KWD '000)

0.248

0.590

0.126

12 mths

0.435

0.600

0.130

YTD

2,390

0.380

0.260

1.6%

on high

1,300

0.265

-

% Change

Low

388

-1.9%

-

52-Week High

0.295

0.300

0.260

IK Ikarus Petroleum Industries Co.

K KIPCO Asset Management Co.

-

1.680

1.260

IF International Finance Co.

-

1.680

C Gulf Cable and Electrical Industries Co.

IF IFA Hotels & Resorts

-

0.0%

0.049

G Gulf Bank

-4.6%

0.620

A Burgan Co. for Well Drilling

C Combined Grp Contracting Co.

-

Volume ('000)

-17.8%

11.3%

237,600

-14.3%

62,514

18.9%

161,464

21.8%

1,239,921

-38.3%

3,187,576

13.1

1.1

nmf

0.9

15.3

0.6

7.0

3.4

1.5

11.2

1.5

UAE Rebased Performance

Summary

Best Performers 1,660 (-0.6%)

DFM Index (% Chg.)

135

2,512 (0.3%)

ADSM Index (% Chg.)

Advance/Decline Ratio

DFM Index 52 week High / Low 119

115

Highest Turnover 105

105

A Arabtec Holding E Emaar Properties

25-Feb-12 S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

25-Mar-12 Abu Dhabi SE

20,297,085

D Dubai Financial Market

25-Apr-12

1.1%

1.1%

1.0%

Worst Performers Turnover (AED) 118,987,003 DFM.DFM Dubai Financial Market 68,346,513 TAQA.ADS Abu Dhabi National Energy Co. 48,384,910 EMIRATES Emirates NBD

TATamweel

95 25-Jan-12

0.96

399,779,184

Market Cap. (AED '000)

114

1.8%

2.00

537,025

Turnover (AED '000)

2.2%

1.15 0.91

2,775 / 2,293 ADNH.ADS Abu Dhabi National Hotels

ADSM Index 52 week High / Low

% Chg.

3.20

64% ALDAR.AD ALDAR Properties 0.83 SIB.ADSM Sharjah Islamic Bank 1,754 / 1,301 ARKAN.AD Arkan Building Materials Co.

% of stocks trading above 1yr avg. price

125

Close ADCB.ADS Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank

17,249,736

A ALDAR Properties

UPP.DFM

Close

% Chg.

1.14

1.31

2.81

Union Properties

0.45

DEYAAR.D Deyaar Development Co.

0.38

-3.4%

-3.0%

-2.8%

-2.2%

-1.8%

Dubai FM

Quotes Company Name

Close

7,054

1.31

-3.0%

1.34

1.26

0.61

-1.3%

0.61

0.60

1.02

-

A Air Arabia

3.16

3.25

2.00

1.8%

1.16

3.62

0.3%

A Arkan Building Materials Co.

0.96

D Dana Gas

0.47

A Arabtec Holding A Aramex

C Commercial Bank of Dubai D Deyaar Development Co. D du

2.00

-0.3%

1.0%

A Amlak Finance

1.15

1.84

2.71 0.38

3.24

3.16

2.00

0.0%

0.48

0.46

0.0% -1.8%

0.0%

2.71

0.39

3.26

2.71 0.36

3.19

D Dubai Islamic Bank

1.99

-1.0%

2.03

1.99

E Emirates NBD

2.81

-2.8%

2.88

2.81

M Mashreq

N National Bank of Abu Dhabi N National Bank of Fujairah

N National Bank of Umm Al Qaiwain S Sharjah Islamic Bank

S Sorouh Real Estate Co. T Tamweel

1.09

91.45

-

-

1.94

-

-

3.31

8.79 9.11

-

-

8.75 -

-

1,019 163

4,418 3,197 3,399

20,297 4,424

-

-

8.65 -

-

4,531 -

777

-2.2%

0.45

11,335

-

-16.6%

8,154,750

12.5

1.1

0.57

-19.6%

3.6%

-18.7%

2,832,687

10.5

0.5

0.0%

1,530,000

nmf

1.98

0.76 -

1.13

12,842

2.95

2,767

-

-

-11.0%

0.0%

-1.9%

-31.0%

-9.1%

-28.1%

25.0%

-28.1%

0.0%

0.0%

-32.0%

7,472,471

2,000,000

4,697,898

6.5

8.0

7.3

1.1

0.2

0.7

1.1

32,758

3.63

1.24

-0.3%

127.7%

151.4%

5,411,900

21.3

1.8

15

1.65

0.71

-41.8%

-5.0%

-41.8%

1,680,000

nmf

1.0

9,375

0.69

0.34

-31.9%

4.4%

-31.9%

3,102,941

554 60

8,528

1,057

17,509 2,202

1.96

3.24 0.46

3.63

1.38

2.28

1.69

2.71

0.20

2.80

15

-

4.63

1.50

2.65

-39.3%

0.67

-27.3%

-

4.70

3.00

851

1.02

0.80

2.24

-10.7%

-12.7%

74.70

-

-16.9%

1.88

102.00 9.00

-16.3%

-17.4%

-

522

-6.1%

0.68

8.57 6.98

0.45

-

9.2%

11.20 10.75

68,347

3.95

-19.6%

1,671 440

43

1.25

U United Arab Bank

1.14

14,614 3,981

1.33 0.47

-

0.8

2.92

8.65 8.96

-1.6%

3.00

1.60

PB 5.5

2.41

1.26

-0.3%

-

PE

17,905,912

3.34

0.89

1.16

14,951

2.90

Trailing

Market Cap. (AED '000)

19.0%

14,724

0.93

0.9%

356

3.55

12 mths

15.1%

48,385

1.1%

1.14

168

YTD

-3.6%

3.27

0.91

2.99

* Closing Prices, Turnover and Market Cap. in USD

0.5% -1.0%

0.9%

U Union National Bank U Union Properties

-0.6%

8.68 4.51

0.76

14

1.14

G Gulf Cement Co.

12,576

713

0.95

1.18

8.75 9.04

7,637

0.96

-3.4%

E Etisalat F First Gulf Bank

1.63

1.1%

1.14

3.28

611

118,987

1.84

on high

803

531

3.56

1.85

% Change

Low 2.69

3.69

0.6%

52-Week High 3.32

17,250

-

Volume ('000) 2,207

1.14

-

D Dubai Financial Market

E Emaar Properties

Turnover (AED '000)

3.18

T Abu Dhabi National Energy Co.

A ALDAR Properties

Low

3.24

3.20

A Abu Dhabi National Hotels

High

2.2%

A Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank A Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank

Daily % Chg.

7.38

-10.3% -3.6%

927

3.90

2.82

-23.3%

-

0.50 4.50

0.24

3.28

-25.9%

0.6

-15.5% 2.7%

69,178,725 27,120,000

11.9 7.2

1.8 1.0

22.4%

15,617,347

894,996 -

1.0%

3,104,000

34.1%

-22.4%

2,992,500

3.5%

-10.7%

7,461,919

8.5%

-21.0%

-9.1%

74.4%

0.8

11.1

7.2%

109.0%

7.5

2.4

1.2

19,979,262

33,631,167

-15.4%

-12.2%

7,556,137

nmf

0.4

-1.8%

2.8%

8.3%

-23.0%

13.5

53.5%

-10.8%

0.6

14,811,429

-25.3%

-0.9%

0.9

6.1

-1.2%

9,120,000

1.4

6.9

nmf

-4.4%

7.0%

5,523,934

12.7

2,184,084

-10.4%

-9.9%

2,693,944

21.9%

2.6%

-4.0%

-13.4%

-5.1%

-17.4%

-4.2% 17.0%

0.67

24,773

12.1%

-3.7%

35.7%

-21.9% -15.9%

1.63

0.53

77.5%

27.6%

1.48 1.49

-1.9%

-1.8%

11,219 52,765

2.2%

8.9%

2.2%

27.3% 15.1%

6.2

nmf

18.8

0.7

1.3

9.1

1.3

9.7

0.9

4,961,000

17.7

2,207,205

8.4

2.4

0.5

8.9

0.5

4.9

0.7

1,260,000

13.6

1,515,086

nmf

3,935,785

0.4

11.4

0.6

0.6

2.0

STOCKS WITH NBK CAPITAL

14

ALWATAN DAILY thursday, april 26, 2012

QATAR Rebased Performance

Summary

Best Performers 8,653 (-0.1%)

DSM Index (% Chg.)

120

Advance/Decline Ratio

114

Turnover (QAR '000)

454,137,948

Market Cap. (QAR '000)

103

C The Commercial Bank of Qatar

25-Mar-12

S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

14,247,600

Q Qatar National Bank

25-Apr-12

16.53

0.4%

0.4%

129.00

Turnover (QAR) 43,721,607 VFQS.DSM Vodafone Qatar 30,400,697 CBQK.DSMThe Commercial Bank of Qatar 19,021,964 BRES.DSMBarwa Real Estate Co.

IQIndustries Qatar

25-Feb-12

0.4%

0.1%

Worst Performers

MMasraf Al Rayan

90 25-Jan-12

4.7%

69.70

141.30

QTEL.DSM Qatar Telecom

Highest Turnover

100

% Chg.

17.59

8,892 / 8,071 QEWS.DSMQatar Electricity & Water Co. 388,113 QGTS.DSMQatar Gas Transport Co.

DSM 52 week High / Low

110

Close

44% AHCS.DSMAamal Co. 0.50 QNNS.DSMQatar Navigation

% of stocks trading above 1yr avg. price

13,851,098

Q Qatar Gas Transport Co.

Close

% Chg.

8.35

-1.1%

27.50

-0.5%

73.00

ERES.DSMEzdan Real Estate Co.

-1.0%

19.05

DHBK.DSMDoha Bank

-0.5%

59.30

-0.5%

Doha SM

Quotes Company Name A Aamal Co.

Close 17.59

Daily % Chg.

High

4.7%

Low

18.00

16.80

8,356

27.30

9,002

16.44

-0.1%

C The Commercial Bank of Qatar

73.00

-1.0%

73.50

72.00

19,022

E Ezdan Real Estate Co.

19.05

-0.5%

19.05

19.00

133

D Doha Bank

27.50 59.30

-0.5% -0.5%

16.36

27.65 59.50

59.10

1,564

0.0%

146.50

144.80

30,401

0.4%

142.50

141.00

9,191

51.00

-0.2%

51.30

51.00

2,051

Q Qatar National Bank

133.40

-0.2%

134.00

133.40

14,248

Q Qatar Telecom

129.00

0.1%

129.00

128.50

IQIndustries Qatar

144.80

Q Qatar Electricity & Water Co.

141.30

M Masraf Al Rayan

Q Qatar Gas Transport Co.

Q Qatar International Islamic Bank Q Qatar Islamic Bank Q Qatar Navigation

26.90 16.53 77.40

69.70

V Vodafone Qatar

8.35

-0.2%

0.4%

-0.1%

0.4%

-1.1%

27.00

16.68

77.70

69.90 8.41

26.40

43,722

16.50

13,851

77.10

1,634

69.30

504

8.30

1,977

52-Week

Volume ('000)

High

475

909

K Al Khalij Commercial Bank B Barwa Real Estate Co.

16.45

Turnover (QAR '000)

21.90

55

on high

14.00

18.20

328

% Change

Low 16.06

33.25

27.50

-19.7% -9.7%

-17.3%

YTD 21.7%

10.0%

-8.2%

-14.2%

-4.3%

261

85.50

68.00

-14.6%

-13.1%

7

24.97

18.60

-23.7%

22.50

26

67.00

nmf

-4.3%

-3.4%

17.5%

20,175,000

16.47

-11.3%

-5.6%

-9.3%

76.30

-9.3%

-8.2%

129.50

40

56.20

45.50

107

141.73

122.73

7

284.77

127.70

7

941

237

87.50 9.22

-11.5% -2.5%

-4.5% -9.3%

-5.9%

69.40

-20.3%

7.24

-9.4%

-54.7%

-7.5%

8.9% 1.2%

16.5%

12,257,180

-1.8%

-2.4%

1.1

8.9

50,530,062

148.00

85.30

10,700,928

1.6

12.1

-19.8%

65

21

5,918,400

-14.2%

118.80

18.63

-9.7%

PB

19.5

9.5

148.50

835

9,577,755

Trailing PE

18,063,585

50.00

28.10

Market Cap. (QAR '000)

2.1%

209

1,637

12 mths

0.9

1.4

9.7

1.9

1.8

79,640,000

10.3

3.3

14,130,000

10.4

4.7

14.3

2.4

9,155,041

11.1

4.7

-1.8%

18,289,094

12.8

1.7

-8.9%

-15.9%

7,982,406

11.4

0.8

10.6%

5.6%

7,059,090

nmf

1.1

-5.6% -3.5%

-45.8%

8.7%

7,719,806

7.1%

93,343,907

-50.8%

22,704,000

11.5

1.7

12.0

2.3

8.8

1.1

OMAN Rebased Performance

Summary

Best Performers 5,914 (-0.7%)

MSM Index (% Chg.)

125

37% RNSS.MSMRenaissance Services

% of stocks trading above 1yr avg. price

0.67

Advance/Decline Ratio Turnover (OMR '000)

Turnover (OMR) 831,298 BKDB.MSMBank Dhofar 413,221 BKMB.MSMBank Muscat

B Bank Muscat

162,354

R Renaissance Services

25-Feb-12

25-Mar-12

S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

105,082

O Oman Telecommunications Co.

25-Apr-12

0.65

0.5%

1.07

0.0%

0.3%

0.62

0.0%

1.28

-0.2%

Worst Performers

B Bank Dhofar

95 25-Jan-12

% Chg.

0.30

OTEL.MSMOman Telecommunications Co.

Highest Turnover

106

105

7,007,958

Market Cap (OMR '000)

114

NBOB.MSMNational Bank of Oman

6,372 / 5,419 RCCI.MSM Raysut Cement Co. 4,261 OCOI.MSM Oman Cement Co.

MSM 52 week High / Low

115

Close

61,887

N National Bank of Oman

Close

% Chg.

0.45

-1.1%

OTEL.MSMOman Telecommunications Co.

1.28

-0.2%

RCCI.MSM Raysut Cement Co.

1.07

OCOI.MSM Oman Cement Co.

0.62

-0.5%

0.62

0.0%

0.0%

Muscat SM

Quotes Company Name

Close

B Bank Dhofar

0.449

N National Bank of Oman

0.302

O Oman Telecommunications Co. R Renaissance Services

B Bank Muscat

0.619

O Oman Cement Co.

R Raysut Cement Co.

Daily % Chg.

High

-1.1%

-0.5%

Low

0.454

0.622

Turnover (OMR '000)

0.440

831

0.617

52-Week

Volume ('000)

High

1,828

413

668

% Change

Low

on high

0.423

-18.2%

-1.3%

-17.2%

-3.2%

-1.6%

-2.0%

15.9%

18.5%

-37.0%

0.572

-8.8%

0.302

0.300

62

205

0.324

0.291

-6.8%

1.283

-0.2%

1.285

1.280

105

82

1.425

1.041

-10.0%

0.646

0.5%

0.641

162

251

0.458

-38.7%

1.070

0.0% 0.0%

0.624

0.624

1.070

1.070

0.650

0

1

17

0.629

15

12 mths

0.549

0.679

0.3%

0.624

YTD

0.416

1.112

0.711

1.053

-0.8%

-3.8%

-7.1%

44.4% 40.8%

Market Cap. (OMR '000)

Trailing PE

PB

493,952

12.3

2.2

334,624

9.8

1.2

8.6

1.9

-8.0%

1,112,215

3.3%

206,465

16.1

214,000

14.3

962,250

-2.5%

182,233

9.0

1.3

1.4 2.1

nmf

1.1

BAHRAIN Rebased Performance

Summary

Best Performers 1,148 (0.0%)

BSE Index (% Chg.)

120

Advance/Decline Ratio

114

1,407 / 1,129

BSE 52 week High / Low

180

Turnover (BHD '000)

110

6,488,381

Market Cap. (BHD '000)

100

#N/A

#N/A

8,213

A Ahli United Bank

7,690

N National Bank of Bahrain

25-Apr-12 Bahrain SE

7.4%

0.62

BATELCO.BBahrain Telecommunications Co.

Turnover (BHD) 50,716 BATELCO.BBahrain Telecommunications Co. 29,414 #N/A #N/A

IT Ithmaar Bank

25-Feb-12 25-Mar-12 S&P GCC Large/Mid Composite

#N/A

% Chg.

0.15

0.0%

#N/A

#N/A

#N/A

#N/A

0.46

-0.9%

Worst Performers

B Bahrain Telecommunications Co.

90 25-Jan-12

#N/A

Highest Turnover

101

Close

26% ITHMR.BSE Ithmaar Bank 1.00 AUB.BSE Ahli United Bank

% of stocks trading above 1 yr avg. price

-

B Albaraka Banking Grp.

AUB.BSE

Ahli United Bank

ITHMR.BSE Ithmaar Bank

Close

% Chg.

0.46

#N/A

0.62

0.15

BARKA.BS Albaraka Banking Grp.

0.93 -

-0.9%

#N/A

0.0%

7.4%

Quotes Company Name

Close

Daily % Chg.

High

A Ahli United Bank*

0.620

0.0%

A Arab Banking Corp.*

0.420

-

B Albaraka Banking Grp.* B Bahrain Islamic Bank

B Bahrain Telecommunications Co. B BBK

IN Investcorp Bank* IT Ithmaar Bank*

N National Bank of Bahrain U United Gulf Bank

* Closing Prices, Turnover and Market Cap. in USD

0.930 0.088

-

0.460

-0.9%

797

-

0.400

-

0.145

7.4%

0.260

-

0.545

0.0%

Low

0.620

0.620

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

0.464

0.460

-

-

-

0.145

0.140

-

-

0.545

Turnover (BHD '000)

0.545

Volume ('000)

22 -

-

-

-

35

51

-

110 -

78 8

52-Week High

% Change

Low

0.680

0.599

0.530

0.420

1.063 0.116

0.488

-26.3%

1,306,200

0.082

-24.1%

-2.2%

-24.1%

0.380

0.145

0.065

-

0.424

0.260

0.600

3,244,804

-14.6%

797

0.545

-20.8%

0.0%

Market Cap. (BHD '000)

-6.3%

-0.4%

540 14

2.8%

12 mths

-12.5%

0.390

797

-8.8%

YTD

0.857

0.426

-

on high

nmf

0.8

340,542

10.6

0.0%

-30.0%

637,560

-5.2%

-9.2%

466,171

0.0%

123.1%

-38.7%

-13.3%

-9.2%

45.0%

-36.0%

1.3

82,691

0.0%

-6.1%

10.3

0.8

17.3% -3.4%

PB 8.0

-5.7%

-6.1%

-5.4%

943,462

Trailing PE

662,400

388,276

216,986

6.2 8.3

0.4

1.3

1.4

4.5

0.6

10.1

1.7

nmf

nmf

0.7

1.0

LIFE

Stress fracture of the foot

The bones of your feet are designed to absorb the weight and energy of the rest of your moving body. But when nearby muscles are overused and can no longer absorb the shock of running, jogging or playing sports, for example, your foot may develop a stress fracture. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says possible warning signs of stress fracture of the foot include: •Pain that gradually worsens over time, increasing during weight-bearing activities and improving during rest.

•Swelling at the top of the foot and outside the ankle.

•Tenderness or soreness.

•Bruising.

THURSDAY, april 26, 2012

Campaign to save world’s ‘most threatened’ tribe launched

Awá men are skilled hunters who handmake their own bows and arrows. Awá tribespeople depend on the forest for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle.

NEW YORK: A new international campaign hopes to save a group of people who have been dubbed “the most threatened tribe in the world” - the Awá tribe of Brazil - from encroaching outsiders who are gobbling up their land according to LiveScience.

The Awá live in the Brazilian state of Maranhão on lands set aside for their hunter-gatherer lifestyle. But according to the tribal advocacy group Survival International, which is leading the new campaign, the tribe is increasingly under threat by illegal settlement and logging on their lands. One reserve set aside for the tribe, the Awá Territory, is one-third deforested, its trees stripped by illegal logging operations, some with sawmills operating only miles from Awá land.

“When the forest is destroyed, they either flee or they simply die,” said Survival’s field director Fiona Watson, who has worked with and interviewed many of the 360 surviving Awá who are in contact with society. On her last visit, she told LiveScience, “They were saying

to me, ‘We’re suffering from hunger now.’”

Tribal life under threat

The issue of indigenous people’s land rights is an international one. Survival International estimates more than 150 million tribal people currently live in 60 countries worldwide. The most voiceless of these are uncontacted tribes, people who live without interaction with the outside world.

Uncontacted tribespeople are often romanticized as “primitive” people who aren’t aware of the outside world, which is a myth, according to Survival. In fact, many are purposefully avoiding society after deadly run-ins with civilization in the past. Not only do clashes between native peoples and settlers sometimes result in violence, uncontacted people lack immunity to common diseases and can be felled by a simple flu virus.

Survival estimates that there are about 100 uncontacted Awá in addition to the 360 or so who have semi-settled in villages on their le-

The charred remains of burned forest on Awá land, only several kilometers from an Awá community. (Agencies)

gally protected land. After first contact with the Awá in 1973, the Brazilian government has opened up the region where the tribe has long roamed. After iron ore was discovered in the area, the European Community and the World Bank even helped fund a railway and other developments in the region.

“This acts like a magnet for settlers to pour in, and ranchers, so Awá land started to be invaded,” Watson said.

Land rights battle

The Awá’s right to their land was formally recognized in 2005, making mining and other activities by outsiders illegal; but satellite photos of the forest reveal that these rights are not being honored. Illegal logging has left the scar of deforestation on the land. This is especially devastating to the Awá, who depend on the forest for their survival, Watson said.

“When you talk to the Awá, it’s just so clear how much the forest means to them,” she said.

“They just get everything from it.”

Bullying, child abuse hasten aging in kids NEW YORK: Children exposed to multiple instances of violence age faster on a cellular level than children without violent experiences, a new study finds according to LiveScience.

Although childhood stress has long been linked with later disease risk and health problems, the study is the first to show accelerated biological aging in childhood as a result of stress. “Those kids are ‘older’ than they are supposed to be,” said study leader Idan Shalev, a postdoctoral researcher at Duke University.

If the cellular aging isn’t reversed, Shalev told LiveScience, the children would likely be at risk for premature death.

Violence and stress

To gauge biological aging, Shalev and his colleagues examined a portion of DNA called telomeres. These sequences cap the ends of our

Poor sleep heightens ‘ringing ear’ disease symptoms: Study

chromosomes (packets of DNA), but they get shorter with every cell division, acting as a sort of molecular “clock” that signals wear-andtear on DNA. Several studies have found that adults who experienced violence as children tend to have shorter telomeres than those with peaceful childhoods. But those studies couldn’t determine whether the telomeres had been shortened because of childhood stress or because of later adult health problems stemming from that stress, Shalev said.

To find out which was the case, he and his colleagues began a study that looked not backward, but ahead. Using a sample of 236 children from a British sample born between 1994 and 1995, the researchers took DNA samples by swabbing the children’s cheeks and then measured the length of each child’s telomeres

CONNECTICUT: For people with tinnitus, which features chronic ringing, buzzing, hissing or clicking in the head and ears, poor sleep makes it even more difficult to cope with the condition, researchers have found according to HealthDay News.

The study included 117 tinnitus patients treated at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit between 2009 and 2011.

The more severe the patients’ insomnia, the greater their complaints about their tinnitus symptoms and the worse their emotional distress, the findings showed.

“Tinnitus involves [mental], emotional and psychophysiological processes, which can result in an increase in a patient’s distress,” study co-author Dr. Kathleen Yaremchuk, chairwoman of the hospital’s ear, nose and throat department, said in a Henry Ford Health System news release. “Sleep complaints, including insomnia, in these patients may result in a decrease in their tolerance to tinnitus.”

“Treating patients with tinnitus is challenging,” Yaremchuk said. “A chronic tinnitus patient presents a challenging clinical picture that may include anxiety, depression, annoyance or self-reported emotional distress.

And one of the most frequent self-reported complaints of tinnitus patients is ‘getting to sleep.’”

The researchers said their study also offers further proof that treatment of insomnia in patients with tinnitus may reduce tinnitus symptoms’ severity.

More than 36 million Americans have tinnitus. The exact cause is not known, but several conditions have been found to trigger or worsen tinnitus, including exposure to loud noises, wax build-up in the ears, sinus or ear infections, head and neck injuries, and disorders such as Lyme disease, fibromyalgia and hypo- or hyperthyroidism.

The findings were presented at the recent Combined Otolaryngological Spring Meetings in San Diego, Calif.

The data and conclusions of research presented at medical meetings should be viewed as preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

at age 5 and age 10.

By the 10-year-old time point, 17 percent of the children had experienced domestic violence in their households, 24.2 percent had been frequently bullied and 26.7 percent had been physically abused by an adult, according to interviews with the children’s mothers.

(Some kids were already in protective custody as a result of this abuse.) Because some children experienced more than one type of violence, the researchers split them into groups: kids who hadn’t experienced violence (54.2 percent), kids who had experienced one type of violence (29.2 percent), and kids who had experienced two or more types of violence (16.5 percent).

Wear and tear

The results of the DNA analysis showed

That includes food - babaçu nuts and açaí berries as well as fresh meat - and medicines and supplies, such as the resin of the maçaranduba tree, which is used to make torches.

As the forest vanishes, the Awá are trapped in a legal battle to save it. In 2009, a federal judge ruled that illegal settlers had to leave the Awá territories within 180 days. A legal appeal by one of the largest cattle ranchers in the region delayed the ruling. In December 2011, a second federal judge ruled that colonists and ranchers had to leave the land by December 2012. Survival fears that continued legal wrangling will delay these departures, too. If the case continues in the legal system, it could take 20 or 30 years for the Brazilian Supreme Court to decide it. By that time, it will be too late for the Awá.

“Time is not on their side,” Watson said.

In addition, reports from Awá tribe members and from the Brazilian Indian affairs of-

fice FUNAI suggest that this land controversy can all-too-easily turn deadly. In 1988, for example, townspeople in west Bahia, Brazil, met a lone native man who turned out to be of the Awá tribe. The man, Karapiru, had been living alone in the forest since 1975, when ranchers killed his daughter and wounded him and his son. The ranchers had taken his son, leaving Karapiru to believe him dead. “It’s a violent part of the Amazon,” Watson said. “You have bows and arrows against guns.”

Other tribes have also been haunted by violent clashes. In August 2011, FUNAI officials were alarmed to find evidence of a fight between drug traffickers and uncontacted native people, who went missing after the violence.

Watson and her colleagues are hoping that their new campaign will put pressure on Brazil to honor the Awá’s legal right to their land and provide the funding needed to enforce the protected areas’ borders. “It’s a very simple, direct message to the Minister of Justice,” Watson said. “The land belongs to the Awá.”

that children in the final group, those who had experienced two or more types of violence, had significantly faster telomere shortening between ages 5 and 10 on average than the other children. The findings held true after controlling for health, body weight, gender and socioeconomic status.

The violence does not necessarily have to affect the child physically, the researchers report in the journal Molecular Psychiatry. Instead, it seems the telomere shortening is a result of cumulative stress. It’s not yet clear how stress translates to shorter telomeres, Shalev said, but inflammation, an immune response to stress, may be to blame. “We know that violence is associated with higher inflammation levels,” he said. “Higher inflammation levels are associated with shorter telomere length.”

There is some hope that telomere shorten-

ing can be halted, Shalev said. A healthy diet, physical activity and even meditation are associated with longer telomeres, he said. The researchers plan to follow up with their study participants, who are now 18.

But the study also highlights the long-term damage that childhood trauma can create, said Elissa Epel, a health psychologist at the University of California, San Francisco, who studies stress and cell aging, who wasn’t involved in the current study.

“Now we have some evidence that indeed children’s immune-system aging can be adversely affected by severe stress early in childhood, a scar that could last possibly decades later,” Epel told LiveScience. “This study underscores the vital importance of reducing violent exposures for children - both serious bullying and abuse in the family.”

Violence and protection

Climate right for Asian mosquito to spread in N. Europe

PARIS: The climate in northwestern Europe and the Balkans is becoming suitable for the Asian tiger mosquito, a disease-spreading invasive species, scientists said on Wednesday.

The warning comes from scientists at the University of Liverpool, northwestern England, who say the two regions have been having progressively milder winters and warmer summers.

These temperate conditions favor the mosquito, which gained a foothold in Albania in 1979 and is now present in more than 15 countries on Europe’s southern rim. “Over the last two decades, climate conditions have become more suitable over central northwestern Europe -- Benelux, western Germany -- and the Balkans,” they said.

At the same time, drier conditions in southern Spain have made that region less welcoming for the insect, they said.

The Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), a native of tropical and subtropical areas of Southeast Asia, can transmit viruses that cause West Nile fever, yellow fever, dengue, St. Louis and Japanese encephalitis and other diseases.

In 2005-6, it caused an epidemic of chikungunya, a disease that attacks the joints, on the French Indian Ocean island of Reunion.

A year later, it unleashed an outbreak of chikungyuna in the Italian province of Ravenna. In 2010, it was fingered as a transmitter of dengue virus in France and Croatia.

As of last December, the mosquito was

present in more than 15 countries, from southern Spain to parts of Greece and Turkey, according to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).

Reporting in Britain’s Journal of the Royal Society Interface, the Liverpool team looked at European weather records for 1950-2009 and ran a widely-used computer model to simulate weather trends for 2030-2050.

“Similar trends are likely in the future with an increased risk simulated over northern Europe and slightly decreased risk over southern Europe,” says the study.

“These distribution shifts are related to wetter and warmer conditions favoring the overwintering of A. albopictus in the north, and drier and warmer summers that might limit its southward expansion.”

The paper points out that weather alone does not mean that the species will automatically spread there.

It also notes that the study did not consider vegetation or soil types which also determine whether the mosquito would be able to breed there. In addition, cold snaps or hot, dry spell also help limit mosquito survival, and these too were not included in the investigation.

In the mid-1960s, the Asian tiger mosquito was limited to some parts of Asia, India and a handful of Pacific islands.

It has since spread to North and South America, the Caribbean, Africa and the Middle East, as well as Europe, mainly by hitchhiking a ride in exported materials.

-AFP

A bright star cluster, set against a dazzling landscape of glowing gas and dust clouds inside a slithering constellation, takes center stage in an amazing new photo by a telescope in Chile. The cluster, called NGC 6604, is visible in the upper left portion of the image, which was taken by the European Southern Observatory’s (ESO) Wide Field Imager on the MPG/ESO 2.2-meter telescope at the La Silla Observatory in Chile. The young star cluster is the densest part of a more sprawling cosmic group that contains about 100 luminous blue-white stars, according to ESO officials. In the new picture, NGC 6604’s associated nebula, called Sh2-54, is also visible. This stellar nursery is made up of glowing clouds of hydrogen gas and dust. NGC 6604 is located about 5,500 light-years away in the constellation of Serpens (The Serpent). Despite the brightness of NGC 6604, the cluster is often overshadowed by the nearby and more prominent Eagle Nebula, which is also known as Messier 16. (AFP)

16

ALWATAN DAILY

CULTURE

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Amnesty says veil bans rob Muslims of jobs, education LONDON: Bans on full-face veils in France and Belgium and a failure by other European countries to stop employers from enforcing informal dress codes means Muslim women are being denied jobs and education, Amnesty International said on Tuesday.

In a wide-ranging report highlighting examples of discrimination against Muslims across Europe, Amnesty said governments were pandering to prejudices by stopping Muslim women from wearing full-face veils and urged France and Belgium to repeal their own bans on such veils.

“Muslim women are being denied jobs and girls prevented from attending regular classes just because they wear traditional forms of dress,” said Amnesty researcher Marco Perolini.

“Rather than countering these prejudices, political parties and public officials are all too often pandering to them in their quest for votes,” he added.

The human rights group said countries like Belgium, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands were also failing to prevent employers enforcing informal policies that banned religious dress - such as headscarves worn by many Muslim women - on the grounds of preserving neutrality, promoting a corporate image or pleasing customers.

Pupils in these countries and others had also been barred from wearing religious and cultural dress, it said.

“Women should be able to wear whatever they prefer ...

States have focused so much in recent years (on) the wearing of full-face veils as if this practice were the most widespread and compelling form of inequality that women have to face,” the report said.

Amnesty called on the European Union to ensure European legislation banning discrimination by employers on the grounds of religion or belief was properly implemented across its 27 member states.

It also urged European leaders to avoid introducing bans on the wearing of religious or cultural dress at schools and universities.

France banned clothing that covers the face in April 2011 and Belgium followed suit in July of the same year, while similar legislation has been proposed in the Netherlands, Italy and some Spanish regions.

Citing individual witnesses, Amnesty said France’s introduction of the ban had increased hostility against Muslim women wearing the niqab, a veil across the face that only reveals the eyes.

It said the ban was the wrong approach to address concerns that some Muslim women were being coerced to wear such clothing against their will because of cultural or family pressures.

Governments should not try to impose restrictions on full face veils for security reasons or just because a section of the public found it objectionable, it added.

It cited cases in which employers had refused to hire women who declined to remove their headgear.

One Dutch Muslim woman told Amnesty how a travel agency in Antwerp said it could not employ her if she insisted on wearing a headscarf. “We cannot hire you for front-office positions, we do not want to lose clients,” she was told.

In the same report, Amnesty also urged Switzerland, which uses referendums to decide some legislation, to annul votes that were discriminatory after the country barred the construction of new minarets following a referendum in 2009.

“There is a groundswell of opinion in many European countries that Islam is alright and Muslims are OK so long as they are not too visible. This attitude is generating human rights violations and needs to be challenged,” Perolini said.

-Reuters

A Saudi woman looks at items on sale at a charity exhibition in Riyadh on April 22, 2012. Bans on full-face veils in France and Belgium means Muslim women are being denied jobs and education, Amnesty International said on Tuesday. (AFP)

‘Romeo and Juliet in Baghdad’: Iraqi take on Shakespeare’s 16th century classic FRANCE: Romeo is Shiite, Juliet Sunni, and they must contend not only with warring families but a country torn by conflict and sectarian strife: this is the story of “Romeo and Juliet in Baghdad”.

Pistols have replaced swords and some characters wear traditional dishdashas, abayas and keffiyah scarves, but the changes go far beyond props and costumes. The play is a distinctly Iraqi take on William Shakespeare’s 16th-century classic -- it is in the Iraqi dialect of Arabic, with an Iraqi cast and an Iraqi director who also adapted the play, weaving in the conflict and suffering with which Iraqis have had to live for the past nine years and more.

One of the final scenes combines the general horror of suicide bombings in Iraq with a reference to a specific attack on October 31, 2010, in which militants killed 44 worshippers and two priests in Our Lady of Salvation church in Baghdad.

Romeo flees to the church after killing the hot-headed Tybalt, and is later joined there by Juliet.

In the play’s biggest departure from Shakespeare’s original story, Juliet’s spurned suitor Paris enters the church wearing a belt of explosives and blows himself up, killing Romeo and Juliet.

Monadhil Daood, 52, who adapted and directed the play, said that Paris is a member of Al-Qaeda and is not an Iraqi -- a reference to foreign fighters who came to Iraq after the 2003 US-led invasion.

The reality of Iraq, and especially the sectarian violence here, ultimately provides a more tragic setting for the story of the two star-crossed lovers than Verona, Italy, where the original “Romeo and Juliet” was set.

In 2006, militants bombed the Shiite Al-Askari shrine in Samarra, unleashing a sectarian war of bombings and death

Actors from the Iraqi Theatre Company perform a scene from “Romeo and Juliet in Baghdad” during rehearsals on April 16, 2012 in preparation for the World Shakespeare Festival. (AFP)

squad murders that killed tens of thousands of Iraqis and forced many more from their homes. That violence was eventually brought under control, but attacks remain common even today, and many Iraqis face other problems such as severe deficiencies in basic services such as electricity and water.

It is the reality of life here, which they have experienced first-hand, that the play’s leading actors want to convey.

“Romeo and Juliet in Baghdad is (about) an Iraqi problem, 100 percent, so Romeo will suffer Iraqi sufferings,” said Ahmed Salah Moneka, 23, who plays Romeo.

“Now,” he said, “it is an Iraqi story.”

“I want to convey messages of the

suffering of this generation and previous generations, and the suffering of love,” Moneka said.

“There are two sects in Iraq and it has happened many times that two people from those two sects love each other and they cannot continue” their relationship, said Sarwa Rasool, 23, who plays Juliet, adding that this not only goes for Sunnis and Shiites, but also Arabs and Kurds.

Anyone “who has a goal must not put sectarianism in front of (that) goal, or this tribe or that, or any other matters that stop love,” she said. Both Moneka and Rasool have had personal experience with sectarian tragedy.

“My friend committed suicide because her lover was Arab and she was Kurdish

and her family did not accept him,” said Rasool, who is herself Kurdish.

And the Urr neighborhood in north Baghdad where she lives was hit by sectarian violence.

“During the time of Saddam’s regime, my area was mostly Sunni, but after its collapse it became mostly Shiite, and they started killing each other,” she said.

There was an old man who owned a shop in her neighborhood, which she could see from her home.

“Because he was from the other sect (Sunni), he was killed by the Mahdi Army,” she said, referring to Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr’s militia. “They came and killed him in front of my eyes; this is a simple example of what we witness.”

“Our generation grew up in a war and lived its childhood during a war and embargo,” Moneka said.

“I have friends who were injured in explosions, and I lost two of my friends during the sectarianism,” he said. “That made my performance stronger and deeper and more serious.”

The play, which opened to a packed house at Iraq’s National Theatre on April 16, was commissioned for the World Shakespeare Festival, part of the cultural program for the London 2012 Olympics.

It will show in Stratford-upon-Avon from April 26 to May 5, and in London from June 28 to 30. But it is ultimately a play tailor-made for Iraqis, and its director Daood said that it should be performed in Iraq again after its run in England.

“I think it’s a play that speaks directly to the Iraqi people first; it was written for Iraqis -- it wasn’t written for an international festival circuit,” said Deborah Shaw, who commissioned the play.

“I need to help my people,” said Daood. “I need to tell them, come and see yourself, because I am the mirror.” -AFP

Top Philippine dishes emerge from junk food shadows

Customers eat their lunch at the Bale Dutung, the house of chef and artist Claude Tayag in Angeles, Pampanga, north of Manila on March 17, 2012. (AFP)

Saudi girls’ school defies clerics with basketball

JEDDAH: A girls’ school in Saudi Arabia has defied a religious ban on female sports by erecting basketball hoops and letting pupils play at break-time, the daily Al-Watan reported on Wednesday.

Powerful clerics in the conservative Islamic kingdom have long spoken against allowing girls to play sports, with one senior figure saying in 2009 it might lead them to lose their virginity by tearing their hymens.

Saudi Arabia’s austere interpretation of Islamic law prevents women from working, opening bank accounts or having some elective surgery without the permission of a male relative. They are not allowed to drive.

King Abdullah has pushed for women to have better opportunities in education and employment and last year said they could vote and run for office in future municipal elections, the only official polls in the monarchy.

The school in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province has now become the first state-run girls school openly to encourage sports, Watan reported, quoting a supervisor as saying it would expend pupils’ energy “in a positive way”.

Private girls schools already offer sports classes.

In recent months Saudi Arabia has faced criticism for having never fielded a woman athlete at the Olympics, with Human Rights Watch calling for it be barred from this year’s London games.

Amid mounting international scrutiny of the issue, local media reported this month that the deputy education minister for female student affairs, the kingdom’s first woman minister, was looking into setting up “a comprehensive physical education program” for both sexes.

“The school administration is hoping to instill the importance of sports among the students and introduce them to its benefits, as well as allowing them to spend their spare time doing something beneficial,” Amina Bu Bsheit, a school supervisor, was quoted as saying by Watan.

She added that the school, which was not named in Watan’s report, still does not provide a physical education class but that the students play during weekly “activities classes”. -Reuters

FRANCE: Claude Tayag sees himself as a food missionary, hoping to convert people at home and abroad to the secret cuisine wonders of the Philippines.

The Southeast Asian nation’s table-fare has long suffered a poor reputation internationally compared with its regional neighbors.

Across the world, Indian curry houses compete with Vietnamese noodle soup shops or Chinese dim sum restaurants in offering a taste of Asian food, but there are comparatively very few places serving Filipino dishes.

Back home, many locals also undoubtedly prefer their meals fast and cheap -- in the style of their former American colonial rulers -- with deep-fried chicken and hamburger chains dominating the food scene.

But standing in his kitchen over a huge pot of pork bone marrow slowly simmering in a traditional adobo-style mix of vinegar, soy sauce and garlic, Tayag insists Philippine food can “wow” as much as any other in Asia.

“It’s a very misunderstood cuisine. Firstly, Filipino cuisine is so diverse,” Tayag says as he stirs the pork that he is preparing for dozens of guests who have gathered at his home.

“You cannot explain it in one sentence. You need a whole day, a whole month to talk about it.”

Tayag, an artist, writer and chef, has turned his rustic home a couple of hours’ drive north of Manila into an informal restaurant, where diners feast on a 10-course meal that takes them on a culinary tour of the archipelago.

The lunchtime extravaganza lasts for three hours and one version of his menu starts with an eclectic trio of dips -- fermented rice, crab fat and a pesto made from the native pili nut.

It ends with a Filipino version of the Italian panna cotta -- made from carabao’s milk, which has a higher fat content and is thus richer than that produced by cows.

Throughout the afternoon diners wash down their food with jugs of ice-cold tea made from calamansi juice, ginger, lemongrass and honey.

Bookings often have to be made weeks in advance for the restaurant that Tayag runs with his effervescent wife, Mary Ann, who entertains the guests as hostess with in-depth descriptions of all the dishes.

Tayag, 55, says his restaurant’s popularity is testament to a small but developing food culture in the Philippines.

“In every major province, there are people like us, working for the preservation and the propagation of slow-cooked food,” Tayag says.

“And one can say there’s a rediscovery of Filipino cuisine... it’s come about slowly with the emergence of high-end Filipino restaurants in Manila, but also the cable TV travel and cooking shows. And the food bloggers.”

Indeed, 15 years ago restaurants serving top-end versions of traditional Filipino food were a rarity in Manila, let alone in out-of-the way locations such as Tayag’s home in Angeles City.

Nowadays -- propelled also by a fast-growing middle class -- Filipino restaurants are starting to feature much more in the Philippines’ major cities.

Nevertheless, Tayag acknowledges that US-style junk food remains the most popular option for most of the nearly 100 million Filipinos when they choose to dine out, particularly the poor masses who need cheap options.

“We need to create awareness. We are fast losing our traditional ways... with the onslaught of these fast foods, the malls, and all that. You know, the American lifestyle,” he says. Asked to describe Filipino food, Tayag says it does not necessarily have the obviously bold, intense flavors like spicy Indian or hot Thai dishes.

“Our flavors are more nuanced... there’s a nuance of sweet, sour, salty and bitter,” he says.

Tayag then explains one of his favorite expressions to describe how people in the Philippines feel when they eat the food they love -- linamnam.

Linamnam, which has no direct translation in English, refers to a thrill, an excitement, a tingling sensation. -AFP

ALWATAN DAILY

entertainment Song Of The Day

Fahad AlSabah Staff Writer

Song: Sunflowers for Alfred Roy Artist: Mariah Carey Album: Charmbracelet Genre: R&B In short: Mariah Carey’s ode to her late father couldn’t have been more enticing or moving; “Sunflowers for Alfred Roy” is a subtle, yet powerful number that shows a different side of Carey. As usual, her vocals are always on point.

To listen to the song visit www.alwatandaily.com E-mail your feedback to falsabah@alwatandaily.com

The Buzz Beyonce named People’s most beautiful woman Grammy-award winning singer and new mother Beyonce was named the world’s most beautiful woman for 2012 on Wednesday by People magazine. The 30-year-old entertainer was awarded People’s top spot after she and her rapper husband Jay-Z welcomed their first child, a daughter named Blue Ivy Carter, who was born in New York in January. “I feel more beautiful than I’ve ever felt because I’ve given birth. I have never felt so connected, never felt like I had such a purpose on this earth,” the singer told the magazine. Beyonce topped the magazine’s annual list and joined other women who have held the title including Michelle Pfeiffer, Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman, Halle Berry, Jennifer Aniston, Angelina Jolie and last year’s winner Jennifer Lopez. The full list can be found on www.people.com/mostbeautiful -Reuters

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Murdoch ‘never asked a UK prime minister for anything’ LONDON: Rupert Murdoch rejected accusations on Wednesday that he used his media empire to play puppet master to a succession of British prime ministers, electrifying a media inquiry that has shaken the government and unnerved much of the establishment.

The appearance of the world’s most powerful media mogul is a high point in an inquiry which has laid bare collusion between ministers, police and Murdoch’s News Corp, reigniting concern over the cozy ties between big money, the media and power in Britain.

Murdoch, 81, was immediately asked about his relationship to politics and British “toffs”, a reference to his regular attacks on Britain’s gilded establishment, which the Australian-born tycoon has lampooned as snobbish and inefficient.

He said he was keen to put straight some myths about him.

“I have never asked a prime minister for anything,” Murdoch said calmly when asked about his links to former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, one of his favorite British leaders.

Cameron, under intense criticism for his own ties to Murdoch and facing calls to fire a senior minister who stands accused of breaking rules to help News Corp, told a raucous session of parliament on Wednesday that politicians from all parties had got too close to the magnate.

“I think on all sides of the House there’s a bit of a need for a hand on heart,” he told a chamber of jeering opposition lawmakers.

“We all did too much cozying up to Rupert Murdoch.”

Cameron and at least two former Prime Ministers are expected to appear for ques-

In this image from video, News Corp. chairman Rupert Murdoch appears at Lord Justice Brian Leveson’s inquiry in London, April 25, 2012 to answer questions under oath about how much he knew about phone hacking at the News of the World tabloid. (AP)

tioning in the coming months.

Some politicians had expected the magnate - courted by prime ministers and presidents for decades - to come out fighting, having been on the back foot for almost a year over a newspaper phone hacking scandal that has convulsed his empire.

But Murdoch appeared calm and laconic,

at times provoking chuckles from some of the 70 lawyers, family members and journalists packed into the Victorian gothic courtroom when he cracked jokes about the destruction of unions and a disgraced former British minister who lied in court.

The man who has for years portrayed himself as an underdog, said he had simply

Egypt actor to appeal jail term for defaming Islam

Fox picks up Axe Cop for Saturday nights “Axe Cop” has locked up a TV deal. Fox has acquired the rights to Malachai and Ethan Nicolle’s web comic “Axe Cop” for its upcoming Saturday night animated block Animation Domination HD. “Axe Cop” is the first addition to the slate, which will air from 11 to 12:30 on Saturday nights beginning in 2013. “Axe Cop,” which premiered online in January 2010, follows “the adventures of an axe-wielding police officer and his loyal team of allies as they fight bad guys.” With an axe. -Reuters

Deion Sanders cited for fight with estranged wife

“Big Brother,” the long-running reality TV staple, will return to the airwaves Thursday, July 12 at 9 p.m., CBS announced Tuesday. The network also unveiled the premiere dates for its new reality offerings “Dogs in the City” and “3.” “Big Brother” will air Wednesdays at 8, Thursdays at 9 and Sundays at 8, beginning with the Sunday episode on July 15.

The live eviction shows will air on Thursday. “Dogs in the City,” which stars New York City-based “dog guru” Justin Silver as he resolves issues between pooches and their owners, will premiere Wednesday, May 30, at 8 p.m. The dating series “3,” meanwhile, will kick off Sunday, July 22, with a 90-premiere at 9 p.m., and switch to hour-long episodes following the premiere, running Sundays back-to-back with “Big Brother.” -Reuters

E! network, Kardashians sign new reality show deal The Kardashian family will continue living life on TV for the next three years. The E! Entertainment network said Tuesday it had reached a deal with its most bankable franchise to make three more seasons of “Keeping Up With the Kardashians.” Terms were not disclosed. The sixth season of the show averaged 3 million viewers on Sunday nights, the cable networks’ top series. Five of the 10 most-watched shows in the network’s history, in fact, involved the Kardashians. The 18-episode seventh season begins on May 20. E! said the entire family is covered by the deal: Kim, Kourtney and Rob Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian Odom, and Bruce, Kris, Kendall and Kylie Jenner. E! will continue to have the first crack at any spinoff projects. -AP

Flying Burrito Brothers member Ethridge dies at 65 MERIDIAN: John Christopher “Chris” Ethridge II, a Mississippi-born musician, bassist and songwriter who was a founding member of the 1960s country-rock band “The Flying Burrito Brothers,” has died. He was 65.

Officials with Robert Barham Family Funeral Home said Tuesday that Ethridge died Monday at Anderson Regional Medical Center in Meridian. The family said in a statement that Ethridge had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in September. Born and raised in Meridian, Ethridge moved to Los Angeles when he was 17. Ethridge collaborated with another seminal Southern music figure, Gram Parsons, on several projects, including the Flying Burrito Brothers and the International Submarine Band, and he co-wrote several of Parsons’ solo tunes. Ethridge spent eight years on the road with Willie Nelson and can be heard on the country legend’s “Whiskey River.” Nelson wrote in a tweet Monday, “(Willie Nelson and Friends) are sad to hear of the passing of Family member & friend Chris Ethridge he was a talented musician & we were honored to call him Family.” Services will be held Wednesday in Meridian. -AP

CHAPEL HILL, North Carolina: Add this to the list of ways the President of the United States woos young voters in an election-year: He slow jams the news.

Obama, appearing on NBC’s “Late Night with Jimmy Fallon” show, joined the comedy host in a popular feature of his program. The president, looking in the camera, talked earnestly about student interest rates as The Roots, Fallon’s hip house band, laid down a rhythm. Then the camera cut to Fallon in the foreground, where he punched up the message in his own way. “Now is not the time to make school more expensive for our young people,” Obama said. Then Fallon: “Ohhhh yeaahh. You should listen to the president.” The episode was taped during Obama’s appearance at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. -AP FILE - In this Sunday, Nov. 11, 2005 file photo, Egyptian film actor and comedian Adel Imam, right, walks with Egyptian actress Laila Elwi, left, during the Second Dubai International Film Festival red carpet reception in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (AP)

CAIRO: The Arab world’s most famous comic actor,Adel Imam, will appeal a decision by an Egyptian court to sentence him to three months in jail for insulting Islam in his films and plays, his lawyer told Reuters on Wednesday. A court found Imam guilty of defaming Islam on Feb. 2 and fined him 1,000 Egyptian pounds ($170) in absentia. Imam has frequently poked fun at the authorities and politicians during a 40-year career and his more serious films have dealt with the rise of Islamist militancy.

The timing of his case - at a time when Islamists are in the political ascendancy - and his high own profile has raised fears that ultraconservative Muslims, who swept parliamentary elections, are trying to force their views on society.

“Mr. Adel Imam will appeal to annul the verdict, which was given on the wrong legal basis,” Sawat Hussein, his lawyer, told Reuters.

“My client’s films were certified, not censored, by surveillance authorities before their release to the public.” The case against Imam was brought by a lawyer with ties to Islamist groups. Asran Mansour accused the actor of offending Islam and its symbols, including beards and the Jilbab, a loosefitting garment worn by some Muslims, the Egyptian news portal Ahramonline reported. Among films and plays targeted by the lawyer were the movie “Morgan Ahmed Morgan” and the play “AlZaeem” (“The Leader”), the report said.

Court cases against directors, actors, artists and intellectuals accused of failing to respect religious authority are relatively common in Egypt.

Egypt’s most successful film star, Imam has been a box-office sell-out for much of his career.

Should his appeal be rejected, Imam would have to serve the sentence. -Reuters

President Barack Obama laughs with Jimmy Fallon during commercial break as he participates in a taping of the Jimmy Fallon Show, Tuesday, April 24, 2012, at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (AP)

Dancing With the Stars says goodbye to Gladys Knight

Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, TI headline Music Midtown Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam, T.I. and Ludacris will headline two days of concerts in September at Atlanta’s Music Midtown.

Organizers of the music festival announced on Tuesday that the event will take place at Piedmont Park. The musicians are slated to perform from Sept. 21-22. The two-day concert marks the second straight year Music Midtown will be held after a five-year break. Coldplay and Black Keys headlined the one-day festival last year. Tickets go on sale April 28 and start at $100 for a two-day festival pass. -AP

tried to shine a light on the country on the behalf of the working classes.

“I think that it is fair when people hold themselves up as iconic figures, or great actors, that they be looked at,” he said. “I don’t think they are entitled to the same privacy as the ordinary man on the street.”

But he admitted that his opinion had been carried by his Sun newspaper, one of his favorites for years. “I’m not good at holding my tongue,” he said. “If you want to judge my thinking, look at the Sun.” He also shed some light on recent British political history, saying that then Prime Minister Gordon Brown had reacted to the news that the Sun newspaper would be withdrawing its support for the Labor party by threatening to “declare war” on News Corp.

“I did not think he was in a very balanced state of mind,” Murdoch said.

Asked if as reported he had initially found Cameron to be lightweight, Murdoch replied: “No. Not then.” He had also not found it strange when Cameron took time out of his own private holiday to meet him on a yacht off a Greek island in 2008.

“I’ve explained that politicians go out of their way to impress people in the press,” he said.

As the questioning went on Murdoch started to appear agitated. The session was adjourned in mid-afternoon and will resume on Thursday.

Murdoch biographer Michael Wolff told Reuters he thought the News Corp boss had performed brilliantly. “I’d like to see fireworks as much as the next guy but that hasn’t happened,” he said. “Murdoch is very much on his game.” -Reuters

Obama, on the Fallon show, slow jams the news

Former Dallas Cowboys star Deion Sanders has been charged with misdemeanor simple assault in the wake of an altercation with his estranged wife that got her arrested at their mansion in suburban Dallas. Police said late Tuesday that further investigation led to citations against both Deion and Pilar Sanders, who still live together in Prosper. Police say the charge doesn’t warrant arrest. A police spokesman wouldn’t detail the allegations, but says simple assault could be as simple as touching or jerking from a grip. A message left with Sanders’ attorney wasn’t immediately returned. The Hall of Famer tweeted Monday that Pilar had attacked him, and he posted a photo of his children filling out police reports. He later removed the post. -AP

CBS announces premieres of Big Brother and more

17

In this April 23, 2012 photo released by ABC, singer Gladys Knight, right, and her partner Tristan MacManus perform on the celebrity dance competetion series, “Dancing with the Stars,” in Los Angeles. (AP)

NEWYORK: Motown week proved the ironic undoing of singer Gladys Knight on Tuesday’s “Dancing With the Stars,” but her final “dance duel” against the other bottom-finisher, Roshon Fegen, brought a split decision from the three judges as to who should go home. In the end, it was the singer who was escorted off the ballroom floor for the final time. She had started off rocky in the first weeks of season 14 on the hit TV dance competition, but had shown recent improvement and was never in the bottom two until this week. Yet her rumba to “My Girl” on Monday’s performance show earned the lowest score, 21, from the judges.

Disney Channel star Fegen fared only marginally better with a judges’ score of 23. But after fans voted the two as the lowest finishers, they had to face off in the newly introduced dance duel, in which the judges decide who is eliminated.

Knight, a 67-year-old Grammy-winning singer who was partnered with professional dancer Tristan MacManus, was poised and gracious in defeat, saying

she was “amazed at this journey.”

Judge Carrie Ann Inaba wanted to keep Knight over Fegen, but was outvoted by fellow panelists Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli.

“I learned so many things, and found so many friends and family,” she said. After Monday’s performance she was prepared for her demise, saying “More than likely they’re going to have us in the dance duel,” before adding “What-ever!”

Two other dancers, Melissa Gilbert and Maria Menounos, were also declared in jeopardy early on, but had good enough scores and enough fan votes to keep them from the final dance-off.

Opera singer Katherine Jenkins, who has wowed judges and fans consistently all season, scored a 29 as did Jaleel White, she with a samba and he with a cha-cha-cha. 1 Musical highlights of the Tuesday’s elimination round included Boys II Men performing “One More Dance” and Natasha Bedingfield singing “Wild Horses” to accompany a dance performance. -Reuters

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ALWATAN DAILY

AROUND TOWN / TIME OUT

THURSDAY, APRIL 26, 2012

If you have an event you wish to include, please email: aroundtown@alwatandaily.com

Feature o f

graffiti

the day

moderately confused

Splash showcases a tropical fashion paradise for Spring Summer 2012

KUWAIT: Celebrating 10 successful season’s Splash showcased its all new tropical collection to make the headlines.The brand hosted a fashion show at the Avenues showroom which was attended by local media and senior officials from Landmark Group Kuwait.

Attendees were treated to a sneak peak of the new colorful collection.

The collection inspired from the world of Aqua Mania, Out of the Blues, Survivor and Soul Searcher was presented by live models creating a contrasting medley.

Brimming with glitz, glamour and gloss this year’s Tropical collection is a mix of contemporary and traditional fashion statements. A perfect way to unwind with the 60’s for inspiration. The clean graphic lines of simple and dropped-waist shifts, pinafore dresses, A-line skirts, and collarless cardigan jackets, printed and knee-length shorts with highly decorated fabrics lend texture and depth. Shades of grey and white, offbeat mid-tones of burnt orange, parrot green, saxe blue and yellow ochre are contrasted with fabrics like lightweight suitings, drapy viscose, micro checks, twills and jersey.

Month a t

Sudoku

Elementary Speaking on the concept of Splash Fashion Paradise Saibal Basu, C.O.O, Landmark Group, Kuwait said: “We are very excited to showcase the new collection and give our customers the opportunity to experience new trends, tread unexplored fashion territory and immerse in cultural chic and discover the language of fashion. We aim to provide our customers with trendy fashion and edgy styles coupled with sophisticated glamour.”

Advanced

Intermediate

Splash’s growing presence in Kuwait is an indication that people are getting more discerning when it comes to fashion. We combine quality and style to appeal to a broad customer base. This season we decided to transport people into a travel destination that was surrounded by cool blues, tropical sunshine and the serenity of life.

Customers come to Splash and find something that fits their personal style and their budget.”

General A n n o u n c e m e n t s

a glance

Art exhibition April 15-26/ 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. / Gallery Tilal: Abdul Rasool Salman’s rhythms are mundane encounters of beauty that sprouted from the ego and surrounding events, creating emotions which dissolved into aesthetic visual messages.

Golden era club April 27/ 5 p.m. - 7 p.m./ Rumaithiya: Join the Golden Era (an exclusive seniors club) for a 3500 km, zero carbon footprint, journey to a beautiful European country credited with amazing achievements. Dr. Leos Tovarek’s dynamic presentation will give a unique insight into the Czech Republic; its history, culture, strengths, potential and future. Home sick Czech nationals are particularly invited to share their culture. Venue- House #34, next to AbuTammam Intermediate School for Boys, Sate Alhusari St., Block 2, Rumaithiya. For details call 97172788/ 66208183.

K’S PATH invites applicants for the adoption of pets Sepp is a Domestic Long Haired (DLH) male cat. He will be 2-years-old April 2012. This friendly, laid-back boy loves a good cuddle and likes a high vantage point in a cat tree or ledge to look out from. He would do best in a home with children over 12 years of age.

To adopt, contact +965 67006122 or visit the website www.kspath.org

Pretty Little Things Charity Edition

Gulf Jazz Festival Kuwait April 25 - 26/8 p.m./Al Hashemi II Grand Ballroom at Radisson Blu Hotel: Sponsored by Cadillac the Gulf Jazz festival will begin on April 25 with an opening concert and dinner performed by: Full Drive Quartet (Poland) and Vivian Buczek (Sweden). Following night will feature a special concert performed by Michaella Rabitsch and Robert Pawlik Quartet (Austria). Tickets are available at Radisson Blu Hotel in Al Bida’a to contact event holders visit http://www.gulfjazzfest.com/ or call +965 2567 3000.

NSPC Charity Exhibition April 25 - 27/ 10 a.m. - 10 p.m./Alraya Center: The National Society for Protection of Children would like to invite you to its annual charity exhibition on April 25, 26 and 27, from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m. at Al Raya Centre, ground floor in Sharq. The exhibition will include many participants offering kaftans, bags, accessories, fine jewelry, food, sweets, books and paintings from Kuwait and the GCC. The event is available for the public and is free of charge.

April 28 - May 1/3:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m/Sadu House: Try new things, meet the people behind regional brands, help raise funds to refurbish a part of the orphanage, chat under the stars by candlelight and stay a while. Opening day will be April 28 at 7:00 p.m. with special appearance by Fishyface booth and the event will extend from April 29 to May 1 from 3:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. held in Sadu House; Gulf Road; in front of the National Museum of Kuwait. Come and meet: Razan Al Azzouni, Fyunka, Sotra Boutique, Th\\’haba, May Jewelry, Paper Design Nest, The Yard, Peices By Farah, AK Eco Gioelli, Muneera Alsharhan, So Lulu, Baby B, Lina Jewelry Design, and more! For more information visit Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ events/122809627847930/.

Diwaniya presentation May 1/ 7 p.m. /The AWARE Center: The AWARE Center cordially invites interested Western expatriates to its diwaniya presentation entitled, “Criminal Laws in Islam,” by Dr. Teresa Lesher. Criminal law in Islam aims to safeguard the community and exists when there is potential harm to a second party. Join Dr. Teresa Lesher for a discussion of Islamic law (shariah) regarding the penalties for the major crimes, including murder, manslaughter, armed aggression, theft, rape, adultery, slander and intoxication, and how these rules protect the citizens’ material, spiritual and social development. Q&A follows a 20-minute presentation.

Dilbert

Mario is a gentle and affectionate 6-years-young Spitz male. This friendly boy does great with people and dogs of all ages.

Holiday Notice The Embassy of India will remain closed on Sunday, May 6, 2012 on account of “Buddha Purnima”.

Open House for Indian Citizens Ambassador of India would be holding an Open House for Indian citizens to address their problems\grievances on Wednesdays of the second and the fourth weeks of every month between 1500 hrs and 1600 hrs in the Embassy. In case Wednesday is an Embassy holiday, the meeting will be held on the next working day. To ensure timely action/follow-up by the Embassy, it is requested that, wherever possible, Indian citizens should exhaust the existing channels of interaction/grievance redressal and bring their problems/issues in writing with supporting documents.

Nancy

Horoscopes Aries: March 21 - April 19

Difficult as it may be for you to face all those projects you’ve left undone, Aries, know that you’ll be free to move on once they’re complete. People from your past figure prominently now. Perhaps they come forward to repay an old debt or possibly claim repayment from you. Don’t abandon your dreams. Once you’ve cleared a path for them, they’re more likely to come true.

Taurus: April 20 - May 20

You could have a “eureka!” moment today, Taurus, as events from your past unexpectedly bubble to the surface of your mind and crystallize in a surprising new way. Suddenly, you have a clear understanding of how these past events affect your present behavior. You can use this new knowledge to bring about change. There is clearly a situation at work or at home that is in need of transformation.

Gemini: May 21- June 21

Sometimes it’s easier to tend to life’s mundane details rather than lift your eyes and see the big picture, Gemini. For example, it’s likely that you’ve grown complacent at work. Could it be that you aren’t at the right job or in the right career after all? Busying yourself with trivia isn’t the way to avoid answering the question.

Cancer: June 22 - July 22

Change is in the air. Whether it’s a dramatic change of faith or a major shift in your life’s goals, prepare yourself for a profound transformation. It’s likely due to the fact that you now have more freedom to do what you want, when you want. Perhaps a financial windfall has made this possible. Take care to choose your new path wisely.

It doesn’t offer you the choice of returning to your old lifestyle.

Leo: July 23 - August 22

It’s time to refill the well of your soul, Leo. You spend so much of your life in service to others that it’s only natural that you feel drained sometimes.

Rather than try to push past this feeling and go on as though nothing is the matter, consider it a sign that something is amiss. Admit if you’re feeling unappreciated. You’ve spent too much time putting the happiness of others before your own.

Virgo: August 23 - September 22

You would make an excellent judge, Virgo. You’re able to consider all aspects of a situation. This is a bit of a blessing and a curse, because it can make it difficult to come to a decision. Today you could face the challenge of reconsidering past decisions. Once-binding contracts need to be reviewed and new ones created.

Libra: September 23 - October 22

Just because one person is no longer a part of your life doesn’t mean that all people are unreliable. People change, as do situations. It’s possible that this person was no longer a healthy influence on you, in which case the departure is for the best. You’re going to have to become more adaptable, Libra, because there are more changes on the horizon, especially where your career is concerned.

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21

It can be hard to release old habits and beliefs even as new, better ways of thinking struggle to gain a foothold. It’s time for you to do this, Scorpio. You might find it difficult to confide your feelings to another, but a frank conversation with close friends will do much to ease your mind. There’s no question that you’re changing. Your friends will show you that this transformation is positive.

Sagittarius: November 22 - December 21

You always suspected that your job was making you crazy, but it never occurred to you that it could make you sick, too. Is it really worth it? You may be asking yourself this question today. Fortunately, your talents apply to several professions. Why not take a closer look at other fields? One way or another, it’s clear that change is coming.

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19

Just how long has it been since you indulged in a big helping of your favorite guilty pleasure, Capricorn? It’s time to let the youngster in you come out and play today. Eat that chocolate, read those mindless magazines, or skip down the sidewalk. You’ve been taking life much too seriously lately. Even grownups are entitled to indulge in the pleasures of youth from time to time.

Aquarius: January 20 - February 18

If you feel like you’re trying to push a square peg into a round hole, you’re probably right, Aquarius.

Whether you’re having personal or professional difficulties, there are times when it just doesn’t pay to try so hard. In fact, it’s often a sign that there is something fundamentally wrong with the relationship. Try to take more of a philosophical attitude, Aquarius. If it’s meant to work, it will.

Pisces: February 19 - March 20

Things aren’t always as they first appear. People you thought you knew well and circumstances that you thought you understood thoroughly now seem anything but straightforward. Has the world really changed that much or has your perception altered somehow? It’s time to direct this “altered” vision inward.

ALWATAN DAILY

SPORTS

thursDAY, april 26, 2012

Cricket

19

Basketball

Patience key to unlocking Pavlovic rallies Celtics to 78-66 win over Heat West Indies potential

West Indies batsmen Adrian Barath (right) and Kieran Powell run a quick single during the third test match between the West Indies and Australia, April 24, 2012. (AFP)

ROSEAU, Dominica: West Indies were again guilty of letting a strong position slip from their grasp when they ended the second day of the third test against Australia 163 runs adrift, but their young squad will be given a chance to develop.

Australia’s tail wagged to punish the hosts, recovering from 169 for seven to reach 328 all out before the Caribbean middle order slumped as the home side fell to 165-8.

It was a disappointing day for the Dominican crowd, who had hoped to see Darren Sammy’s young team push on from their promising work on Monday and make a bid to tie the three-test series.

Despite the setback, assistant coach Toby Radford said that his inexperienced team were going to be given a chance to prove their potential.

“These are young guys, talented guys, who I think will have good careers and we’ve got to be patient with them,” the Welshman said.

“It’s not suicide for us. You learn, you come back and are stronger. Hopefully we can go to England and then perform there,” he said, looking ahead to the next action for West Indies.

Opening batsmen Adrian Barath and

Kraigg Brathwaite have not been able to give their team solid starts with just one half-century stand between them in this series.

Brathwaite, who made his third consecutive duck on Tuesday, is just 19-year-old, however, and his partner is only three years his senior.

With Darren Bravo, 23, and Kieran Powell, 22, also in the lineup, 37-year-old Shivnarine Chanderpaul is the only top order batsman with extensive international experiece.

Radford said the West Indies coaching staff were working closely with Barbadian Brathwaite, who made a half-century in the first test and is considered one of the most exciting prospects in the Caribbean.

“You chat with him. You talk with him.

You practice with him whenever you can and you remind him how good a player he is. He played very well in Barbados in that first innings,” he said. “Today he got out in a similar fashion to how he got out in the second innings in Barbados, just hanging the bat a little bit, but again you back him. He’s a good player. He’s a young player. Our job as coaches is to keep his confidence high and work on any little issues as they come along.

You’ve got to back your young players,” he added. -Reuters

BOSTON: With much more to lose in potential injuries than gain with another victory, the Boston Celtics and Miami Heat let their reserves decide the second-to-last game of the regular season.

Rest and recovery were of much greater importance as both teams looked ahead to the postseason and patched together lineups that hardly resembled last year’s second-round playoff series.

The result was sloppy at times, but turned into a relatively even matchup before the seldom-used Celtics rallied for a 78-66 win over the starless Heat on Tuesday night.

Sasha Pavlovic led Boston with a seasonhigh 16 points, scoring 12 in the fourth quarter as the Celtics pulled away by shooting 50 percent (11 for 22) in the period and forcing Miami into eight of its season-high 25 turnovers.

LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh were out for the Heat. Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo didn’t play for the Celtics.

Rivers said Rondo and Garnett should be back in the lineup on Thursday when Boston hosts Milwaukee in the final game of the regular season. By rallying for a win Tuesday, the Celtics - locked into the No. 4 seed in the Eastern Conference as a division winner - can still get home-court advantage for the first round of the playoffs against Atlanta with another victory on Thursday and a loss by Hawks. Atlanta heads into the season finale with a one-game lead but Boston won the season series.

The Celtics would prefer to open the playoffs on the road with a healthy lineup than be back at home with Rondo (back), Garnett (hip flexor) or Allen (bone spurs) still hobbled by injuries.

Dexter Pittman had 12 points, James Jones scored 11 and Udonis Haslem grabbed 13 rebounds for the Heat, whose 25 turnovers were a season high. Miami failed to score 20 in any quarter and had just 16 in each of the final two periods.

Boston Celtics Avery Bradley (center) goes up for a shot in front of Miami Heat players, April 24, 2012. (Reuters)

Marquis Daniels finished with 13 points, Brandon Bass had eight points and eight rebounds for the Celtics. Paul Pierce finished with eight points. He started the game, but sat out the fourth quarter while Pavlovic thrilled the remaining fans as the Celtics improved to 3-1 against the Heat this season.

The Celtics had almost as many turnovers (7) as points (10) in the first quarter and failed to score until a little past the midpoint of the opening period. But after the sloppy start, Boston’s patchwork lineup came together in the third quarter, tying it with a 10-0 run late and then outscoring the Heat 10-4 to start the fourth.

Sean Williams hit two free throws to put Boston up 58-54, then Pavlovic pulled up with a baseline jumper for a 60-54 lead with 6:35 re-

Jazz drop Suns 100-88, secure playoff spot SALT LAKE CITY: Paul Millsap scored 26 points and Al Jefferson went on a personal 8-0 fourth-quarter run as the Utah Jazz defeated the Phoenix Suns 100-88 Tuesday night to secure a Western Conference playoff spot.

The victory halted Utah’s seven-game losing streak to the Suns, dat-

South Africa turns down Bangladesh tour request JOHANNESBURG: South Africa have turned down a request from Bangladesh to play a limited over series in May primarily because of a hectic schedule, the country’s cricket board said on Wednesday. The Bangladesh Cricket Board, after their brief Pakistan tour this month was postponed following a court order, had approached Cricket South Africa (CSA) with a proposal to play oneday and Twenty20 internationals in May. “Unfortunately there are too many practical obstacles that prevent us from accepting this com-

mitment,” CSA acting chief executive Jacques Faul said in a statement.

“At the moment most of our senior Proteas are spread around the world in England and India and those who are at home are undergoing rehabilitation from injuries picked up during the past season. We also have to bear in mind that the Proteas have a hectic schedule ahead of it with very important tours to England and Australia with the World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka sandwiched in between,” he added -Reuters

maining and Miami called a time out.

Pavlovic continued to pick apart the Heat, driving for a dunk that put the Celtics up 62-56, then hitting a 3-pointer to stretch the lead to nine with 4:45 left.

Pavlovic’s previous high for the season was 10, two fewer than he scored in the final quarter.

Pierce hit a jumper, fed Bass with a pass under the basket for a dunk and then Pavlovic hit a jumper to get the Celtics started on a 10-0 run that tied it at 46-all late in the third quarter. It was tied at 50 entering the fourth. Daniels stole the ball from Juwan Howard and took it uncontested for a dunk that put the Celtics up 54-52, Boston’s first lead since 18-17 in the second quarter. -AP

Utah Jazz guard Alec Burks (10) dunks over Phoenix Suns forward Hakim Warrick (21) during an NBA basketball game, April 24, 2012. (AP)

ing to March 2010. Jared Dudley and Michael Redd scored 15 apiece for Phoenix, and Hakim Warrick had 12 for the Suns, who were without forward Channing Frye because of a shoulder injury.

The Suns won the season series but can’t catch the Jazz with just one game remaining. Utah can still claim the No. 7 seed if Denver loses its final two games. The Suns trailed 85-80 when Jefferson scored eight straight to put the game out of reach.

Jefferson finished with 18 points and 16 rebounds and is headed back to the playoffs for the first time since his 2005 rookie season. He raised his right index finger skyward then punched the air as the final buzzer sounded. Jefferson called Tuesday’s game the biggest of his career. He didn’t disappoint, spinning on the baseline for a dunk then making an 18-footer to start his personal run late in the fourth. He also had two of Utah’s eight blocked shots.

The Jazz return to the playoffs after missing out last year in a season that saw Hall of Fame coach Jerry Sloan abruptly resign Feb. 10, 2011, and the team trade superstar point guard Deron Williams two weeks later.

Utah also has played seven overtime games, including a doubleovertime loss to Toronto, triple-overtime win over Dallas and quadrupleovertime loss in Atlanta. Seventeen other games have been decided by five points or fewer. The Jazz go into the playoffs with seven of their 14 players age 26 or younger, including four who are 21 or younger - Gordon Hayward, Derrick Favors, Enes Kanter and Alec Burks.

Phoenix’s regular-season finale at home against San Antonio on Wednesday could be Steve Nash’s final game for the Suns. The two-time NBA MVP and eight-time All-Star will become a free agent this summer and is reportedly seeking a three-year deal The Jazz led by 10 points early in the third quarter after Jefferson’s 17-foot jumper and were still ahead 58-50 on a dunk by Millsap following Hayward’s steal.

The Jazz led 25-19 after one, fueled by Millsap’s 5-of-6 shooting and 11 points. Utah closed the quarter on a 6-0 run sparked by Josh Howard, active for the first time after missing 18 games because of left knee surgery. He entered with 2:43 left and hit his first two shots. The Suns surged ahead 27-25 in the second, scoring the first eight points of the quarter while the Jazz missed their first seven shots. Utah then went with its bigthree lineup, with Kanter at center, Favors at power forward and Millsap at small forward. The lineup produced an 8-0 Utah run. -AP

Tennis

Mardy Fish unsure when he’ll return to tennis tour BEVERLY HILLS: Weeks after waking up in the middle of the night feeling ill, Mardy Fish is not certain when he’ll return to the tennis tour and says he could miss the French Open. The highest-ranked American is also still trying to figure out exactly why he felt the way he did.

“I’m doing OK. We’re doing lots of tests to try to figure out what’s going on and what went wrong,” Fish said Tuesday in a telephone interview from California with The Associated Press. “It’s sort of unclear as to how or why it happened yet, but we’re trying to figure it out.

It’s not something I’m super comfortable talking about. It certainly was a scare.”

Hours after losing a match at Key Biscayne, Fla., on March 29, the No. 9-ranked Fish went to be checked by a doctor, then saw another doctor the next day. The diagnosis was fatigue, and he was ordered to take some time off. He pulled out of the US Davis Cup team’s quarterfinal against France the following week.

“That was really devastating and disappointing to not be able to go there,” Fish said. “If you know me, you know that it had to be something pretty significant.”

Fish then returned briefly, losing his opening match at a tournament in Houston on April 12.

As for his upcoming schedule, Fish said he’d like to take part in the European clay-court circuit by entering the events at Madrid, starting May 6, and at Rome, starting May 13. But he doesn’t know whether he’ll be able to participate there - or if he’ll make it to the year’s second Grand Slam tournament, the French Open, which begins May 27.

“I’m not 100 percent sure whether I’ll be back for that,” Fish acknowledged, “but that’s the goal.”

The 30-year-old Fish has a 7-6 record in 2012. Last

season, he reached a career-best ranking of No. 7 and took part in the season-ending tour championships for the first time. That meant his season was longer than usual, which might have worn him out.

“It was a good problem to have, but I kind of ran into

not having a break of more than four weeks in a row for 12 months. ... So I needed a break - and I’m taking it now,” Fish said.

“I’m taking some time now to kind of relax,” he added, “and try to keep my mind off tennis a little bit.” -AP

FILE - US Davis Cup team member Mardy Fish serves during a practice session in Fribourg, Feb. 8, 2012.

(Reuters)

Stosur sets up Stuttgart rematch with Goerges

STUTTGART, Germany: World number five Sam Stosur cruised into the Stuttgart clay court tournament second round on Tuesday with a 6-2 6-2 win over China’s Shuai Peng to set up a clash with last year’s winner Julia Goerges.

German Goerges, who beat Australian Stosur in the last four en route to the Stuttgart title in 2011, was made to battle a lot harder by Russian Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova before edging past the world number 23 5-7 6-3 6-4.

“It is normal if I come here as defending champion,” Goerges told reporters. “Of course there will be expectations and the pressure is on you. I need to improve my game.”

Fellow German Andrea Petkovic crowned her comeback on the tour after more than three months out with a back injury with a confidence-boosting 6-1 6-4 victory against wild card Kristina Barrois to set up a second round clash with world number one Victoria Azarenka.

World number seven Marion Bartoli also moved into the second round with a trouble-free win over Czech Iveta Benesova.

Former Wimbledon finalist Bartoli pinned the Czech back with a barrage of groundstrokes and got the first break to lead 3-2 in the first before breaking again to clinch the set with a powerful two-handed backhand down the line.

Qualifier Benesova broke straight back in the first game of the second set but Bartoli upped her game again to ease home.

World number eight Li Na needed a tie break to grab the first set against Czech Lucie Safarova but got a quick early break to clinch a 7-6 6-4 victory. -Reuters

THURSday, april 26, 2012

SPORTS

Football

Bayern beats Madrid on penalties to reach final

Bayern Munich’s midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger celebrates after scoring the winning penalty during the penalty shoot out at the end of the UEFA Champions League semi-final football match, April 25, 2012. (AFP)

MADRID: Manuel Neuer was the hero for Bayern Munich on Wednesday as his side went through to the Champions League final after beating Real Madrid 3-1 on penalties in the Santiago Bernabeu. They will face Chelsea in their own Allianz Arena in Munich on May 19th after losing their return leg 2-1 after extra-time, to send the tie into penalties with the Germans having won by the same score in the first game.

The keeper stopped Madrid’s two initial spot-kicks from Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka, and Sergio Ramos blazed one over the bar before Bastian Schweinsteiger held his nerve to put the four-times European Champions through to the final.

Earlier Ronaldo had scored twice for Real before Arjen Robben grabbed one back in a frantic first halfhour to level the tie. As the players gradually tired it became clearer that we would be seeing penalties becoming decisive in a semi-final for only the third time in the Champions League era. The game started at a furious pace and German international Sami Khedira had the first chance of the game on three minutes for Real forcing a save from Neuer in the Bayern goal.

Two minutes later and Madrid were ahead thanks

to Ronaldo from the penalty spot after Angel Di Maria’s shot had fortuitously hit the outstretched arm of David Alaba.

Bayern’s response was immediate and Robben should have leveled the game when he met Alaba’s cross in the six-yard box. Iker Casillas in the Madrid goal did enough to hurry the Dutchman whose shot spun over the bar when it seemed certain he would score.

At the other end the Bavarians searched for a breakthrough and Mario Gomez and Luiz Gustavo both came close with long shots as the match constantly switched from end to end. Their reward came from the penalty spot after Pepe pushed Gomez, and although Casillas got a touch, it was Robben who leveled the tie at 3-3 on aggregate with the two sides having replicated the first-leg score within 27 breathless minutes.

Gomez glanced a header wide for Bayern on the re-start as the Germans seemed to have halted the home team’s early dominance. The second-period then settled down as both teams took a more thoughtful approach to attack and a number of niggling fouls from both defenses made chances scarce. - AFP

Owen aims for return this season ENGLAND: Former England striker Michael Owen thinks he could still feature for Premier League titlechasers Manchester United before the end of the season, despite being sidelined by a string of injuries.

The 32-year-old has not featured since November 2 due to a thigh problem but is now back in full training.

With just three games of the league season left, Owen accepts he is unlikely to start but is keen to be involved from the bench.

Reigning champions United lead Manchester City by three points at the top of the table before a poten-

tially vital derby at Eastlands on Monday.

“I can’t imagine myself getting back and starting in the 11,” Owen told MUTV, United’s own television station, on Wednesday. “My mindset has got to be get myself ready mentally, physically and everything else because I might be needed for 10 or 20 minutes at a late stage of the season. Who knows? It could be the last game of the season at Sunderland.” Owen’s only league appearance this season was in a draw at Stoke in September but he has scored three goals in two League Cup matches. - AFP

Amateurs in name only, Quevilly set for Cup final

Sports Editors Highlight

LONDON: Manchester City will visit Malaysia for the first time in July, marking the English Premier League club’s only stop in Southeast Asia, the event promoter said Wednesday.The club will meet a select squad of Malaysian League players on July 30 at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium on the outskirts of the capital Kuala Lumpur, promoters ProEvents said in a press release. Manchester City will come to Kuala Lumpur after playing English Premiership rivals Arsenal in Beijing on July 27, it said. Malaysia has hosted several top English Premier League clubs in recent years as those have increasingly courted Asia, keen to nurture a fan base and to help attract sponsors. Earlier this month, Arsenal announced they would hold an open training session in Kuala Lumpur on July 23 and a match against Malaysian League players the next night. - AFP

Juve and Milan scrape wins as Cesena relegated ROME, Italy: Juventus and AC Milan’s thrilling tussle for the Serie A title continued on Wednesday as they both scraped 1-0 wins against struggling sides.

Juventus maintained their three points lead over Milan as a late goal by Marco Borriello was enough to defeat Cesena and consign the losers to Serie B for next season.

It was just as well Borriello popped up to score as Juve were off colour with Andrea Pirlo missing a ninth minute penalty.

Milan too made heavy weather against relegation-threatened Genoa before Ghanaian star Kevin-Prince Boateng pounced to score the winner four minutes from time to ease the nerves of the San Siro home crowd. Defeat leaves Genoa just one place above the drop.

The title contenders continue their battle on Sunday when Juventus are away to second from bottom Novara while Milan have the tougher task away to midtable Siena.

A rejuvenated Inter Milan are right back in the running for a place in next season’s Champions League after winning 3-1 at Udinese earlier on Wednesday thanks to an inspired performance by Wesley Sneijder.

The Dutchman scored twice as the nerazzurri came from behind at the Stadio Friuli to make it three wins and two draws in five games since former youth coach Andrea Stramaccioni replaced Claudio Ranieri in the dugout.

Inter capitalized fully on a slip-up

by Lazio, whose grip on third place was weakened by a 2-1 defeat at struggling Novara earlier in the day.

Lazio are a point clear of Napoli, who won 2-0 at Lecce, while Inter and Udinese

Cesena’s Guillermo Daniel Rodriguez Perez fights for the ball with Juventus’ Mirko Vucinic (center) during the Italian Serie A football match Cesena vs Juventus , April 25, 2012. (AFP)

are a further two points behind in fifth and sixth place respectively. Meanwhile, Roma lost 2-1 at home to Fiorentina and slip to seventh.

With the sides around them all dropping points, Inter are suddenly looking well-placed to salvage a top-three finish from a season overshadowed by coaching changes and a failure to impress in Europe.

They went behind after just six minutes in Udine when Danilo netted for the home side, but Samir Handanovic allowed a weak Sneijder shot through his grasp for the equaliser in the tenth minute.

Sneijder then put Inter in front after

excellent build-up play from Diego Milito and the 3-1 victory was complete before half time as Argentine midfielder Ricardo Alvarez turned the home defence inside out before slotting home.

Lazio are now three games without a win after substitute Giuseppe Mascara scored a delightful free-kick 11 minutes from time to give Novara a win that is likely to only delay their return to the second tier. Lazio now face a crunch clash with Udinese on Sunday. Having lost 4-0 to Juventus on Sunday, Luis Enrique’s Roma looked set for a draw against Fiorentina when Francesco Totti cancelled out Stevan Jovetic’s opener. - AFP

Mertesacker hands Germany a pre-Euro boost BERLIN: Arsenal’s Per Mertesacker has handed Germany coach Joachim Loew a pre-Euro 2012 boost by declaring himself fit for June’s European Championships. The 27-year-old centre-back has been out since damaging ankle ligaments in the Gunners’ 2-1 Premier League win over Sunderland in February, but expects to be fully fit for Euro 2012 which starts on June 8. Mertesacker said the injury, which allowed him to focus on his fitness, could have been a blessing in disguise.

“I hope so, and I think that by the time the Euro starts, I will have achieved a level of fitness like never before,” Mertesacker told German magazine Sport-Bild.

“In the past, I have always missed out when it comes to getting the optimal preparation time. I haven’t had to bend and twist to accommodate Arsenal to be fit for the Euro.”

Meanwhile, Loew has said he expects Germany’s rising stars Mario Goetze and Marco Reus to play a key role for him at Euro 2012. Dortmund’s Goetze, who turns 20 on June 3, and Moenchengladbach’s Reus have been in superb form this season. Attacking midfielder Reus, 22, has scored 16 goals to help Gladbach in their bid to qualify for a Champions League place.

Goetze has just returned after five months out injured, but impressed at the start of the season as Dortmund retained

FILE - Arsenal’s Per Mertesacker (left) challenges Sunderland’s Stephane sessegnon during their English Premier League soccer match at the Emirates Stadium in London, Oct.16, 2011. (AFP)

the Bundesliga title and he orchestrated Germany’s 3-2 win over Brazil last August. Both Reus, four appearances, and Goetze, who has scored two goals in 12 internationals, are relatively inexperienced, but Loew is backing them both.

“I believe that both of them will play more than just a role off the bench for us at the Euro,” he said. “Marco Reus hasn’t

played for the national team so often, but for me he is one of the success stories of the season. Goetze has also been involved for perhaps a year, but he plays as if he has always been a part of the team.”

Loew will name his squad for Euro 2012 on Monday May 7 and said only “four or five” positions are still up for grabs. -AFP

Chelsea defies expectations, humbles Barcelona Quevilly’s players celebrate with supporters after the French Cup semi-final football match Quevilly vs.

Rennes, April 11, 2012. (AFP)

PARIS: This Saturday’s French Cup final will be a veritable David versus Goliath affair as third-tier minnows Quevilly take on Ligue 1 giants Lyon at the Stade de France.

France’s national knockout competition is no stranger to giant-killing, with Calais famously going all the way to the final in 2000 before losing to Nantes.

Quevilly, who hail from a suburb of the Normandy city of Rouen, have a proud history in the competition too, having lost to Marseille in the 1927 final and also reached the last four in 2010, where they lost to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.

This year’s run has been nothing short of remarkable, with Quevilly beating Marseille 3-2 after extra time in the quarter-finals and then eliminating another top-flight side in the last four in the shape of Rennes. Of Quevilly’s 26-man squad, 17 are paid to play the game, including 14 who are on full-time federal contracts.

Goalkeeper Yassine El Kharroubi is on loan from second-division club while captain Gregory Beaugrard

and fellow defender Kevin Giboyau have contracts as youth coaches. Coach Regis Brouard, a former Montpellier player who has become one of France’s most coveted young managers, oversees daily training sessions and makes sure the day-to-day running of the club is just like that of a top-tier outfit. Things are improving behind the scenes, and Quevilly already invest in youth development.

In addition, they will have two artificial training pitches completed this summer, although for the moment Brouard oversees sessions on local municipal fields. Journeys to away games are undertaken by bus, and the players must pay for physiotherapy themselves.

And while the majority of Quevilly’s players are technically professional, the best-paid of those takes home 3,200 Euros ($4,224 US dollars) a month.

Meanwhile, Lyon’s biggest earner, Yoann Gourcuff, pockets a cool 450,000 Euros ($594,000 US dollars) a month. - AFP

LONDON: Chelsea has been defying expectations all season, from the surprisingly poor domestic campaign to the astonishing humbling of Barcelona. ‘’Miracle Men,’’ the Daily Telegraph called them on the front page of its sports section after the 2-2 draw advanced them to the final. The obituaries written for an aging team have been ripped up and replaced with tributes to a fearless squad that defied the odds to reach the Champions League final for the second time in four years.

Winning the European Cup for the first time had seemed an unlikely proposition when Andre Villa-Boas was booted out in March with the domestic campaign in turmoil and Chelsea seemingly headed out of the Champions League.

While the Blues struggled in the Premier League, they advanced 3-2 on aggregate to the final. Chelsea had to play with 10 men from the 37th minute when Terry was sent off for putting his knee into the back of Alexis Sanchez, and the captain will miss the final. ‘’For many teams it would be a killer,’’ Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech said. ‘’But we showed great strength of mind and character not to lie down.’’

Such fighting spirit has not always been evident this season.

When Villas-Boas was fired, the Portuguese was widely reported to be at odds with his squad, which was facing Champions League elimination after losing 3-1 to Napoli in the last-16 first leg.

Turning around that fixture provided Roberto Di Matteo with the ideal launch pad for his stint in the dugout until the end of the season. While the Premier League form has still not recovered, Chelsea is through to an FA Cup final against Liverpool and on course for the cup double.

The victory also helped to pierce the mystique attached to all-conquering Barcelona, which overwhelmingly dominated the two legs but failed to complete its slick passing carousels with enough goals. Chelsea is sixth in the Premier League and must overtake Tottenham or Newcastle to clinch the fourth qualification spot. - AP

Chelsea’s Ramires (2nd right) celebrates with team mates after scoring during their Champions League semi-final second leg soccer match, April 24, 2012. (Reuters)