Times of Oman - October 1, 2015

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THURSDAY, October 1, 2015 / 17 Dhul Hijja 1436 AH

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Omani school student dies in Mudhaibi accident REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: An Omani kindergarten student died in a road accident in Mudhaibi on Wednesday morning, while another child is battling for his life, police officials said.

Twelve other children were also injured in the accident.

“Two vehicles were involved in the collision. One was a car and the other was a minivan in which the children were travelling. The accident occurred on Al Mudhaibi highway,” the police official told Times of Oman.

Road safety experts have been

calling for effective measures for tackling dangerous driving practices that put the lives of children at risk daily.

They have also been urging the authorities for the promulgation of proper law to regulate the school bus transport and drivers.

On March 5 this year, the department dealing with buses at the Ministry of Education, issued guidelines regarding standards which the government school buses must meet.

Oman has seen many accidents in the recent past in which many children have died or suffered injuries. >A6

TRAGEDY: The minivan involved in the accident in Mudhaibi on Wednesday.

Bosses abuse amnesty to save money A top official from Manpower says that employers who use the immigration amnesty as a loophole to save money will face court

REJIMON K /FAHAD AL GHADANI

reji@timesofoman.com fahadnews@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Companies in Oman accused of misusing the immigration amnesty to save costs and avoid their responsibilities to employees have been warned they will face court, a top official at the Ministry of Manpower told Times of Oman.

There have been reports that employers have been letting their workers’ visas expire and then cutting them adrift without paying their notice period or flight home, which is the legal duty of any boss.

During the immigration amnesty, fines for overstaying workers are waived and the illegal employee is forced to pay his own fare home, thus some companies have seen this as a loophole to avoid their obligations.

However, Said bin Naser Al Sadi, advisor to the Minister of Manpower, told Times of Oman that the ministry will stand with workers, not bosses, if it can be proved the amnesty has been abused.

He said: “If a worker approaches us with such complaints with tangible evidence, then we will probe the case and if their claims are genuine, we will stand with them and fight for their rights in the court.

Whenever an overstaying expatriate approaches us, we look into his issues and then sort it out.”

EXIT OPTION: According to three Asian country embassies in Oman, around 21,000 overstaying migrant workers have left the country by using the amnesty. –Supplied photo

According to three Asian country embassies in Oman, around 21,000 overstaying migrant workers have left Oman using the amnesty which was announced in May this year. The amnesty was extended for another three months in July, which will come to an end on October 31.

“We have learnt from our earlier mistakes. We want to streamline the job market,” the advisor added.

An official from the Bangladesh embassy said that around 14,353 Bangladeshis have left Oman making use of the amnesty.

“Around 8,000 are waiting for their turn to complete the procedures and fly back home,” the official added.

While an official from Pakistan embassy said that around 4,000 Pakistanis have left Oman and 500 more are waiting, an Indian embassy official said that a total

Alawi meets Lavrov at UN

of 2,937 Indians have registered with the Indian embassy to avail of the amnesty.

“The exact figures of those who have actually left Oman under the amnesty is not available with us,” the Indian embassy official said.

The previous amnesties were granted in 2005, 2007 and 2010.

“It’s good to know that many are turning up to make use of the amnesty. Around 25,000 overstaying from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan have made use of amnesty in 2010 which also lasted for six months officially,” Shaji Sebastin, a Muscat-based social worker said, urging that those who are overstaying should come forward and make use of the amnesty.

When the amnesty was announced, the three Asian countries had estimated that at least 50,000 overstaying migrant workers in Oman would make use of the scheme.

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MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) on the death of Prince Nawaf bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.

In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan has expressed his sincere condolences and sympathy to King Salman, praying to Allah the Almighty to rest the deceased’s soul in peace and grant his family patience. -ONA HM sends greetings to China, Cyprus and Nigeria >A6

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

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Gift new toys to children in the Sultanate

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Do you want to donate new toys to children? What’s Happening Muscat, Oman? (WHMO), a popular Facebook page in Oman, has launched a “Toys for Children” drive for children who are sick.

“We are hoping to get enough toys together and put smiles on the faces of some very brave children,” said Jo James (JoJo Bird), the administrator of WHMO, which has more than 23,000 members in the group.>A4

SOHAR PLANT

Tech glitch to disrupt water supply Times News Service

MARKET

SPORTS

Iran seeks joint ventures with Oman

Oman to field strong team in Asia Cup

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Companies in Sultanate of Oman are being encouraged to form joint ventures with their Iranian partners to utilise the untapped potential in Iran in various fields including infrastructure development, mining and the development of industrial areas. >B1

the Ministry of

HM sends condolences

With an eye on the future development of hockey in the Sultanate, the Oman Hockey Association is aiming to prepare a strong team for the forthcoming Men’s Junior Asia Cup to be organised in Malaysia. The governing body is planning to give all the support needed. >C1

MUSCAT: Technical problems in the Sohar Desalination plant are likely to disrupt water supply in the North Al Batinah and South Al Batinah and Buraimi Governorates during the next 48 hours.

The Public Authority for Electricity and Water (PAEW) tweeted, “The Sohar Desalination Plant is experiencing technical difficulties and water supply is expected to be affected in the North and South Al Batinah and Buraimi Governorates during the next 48 hours.” >A6

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TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015

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TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

OMAN Puccini’s opera Turandot returns to ROHM as season-opener show Franco Zeffirelli’s genius is to create staging that complements the action and flows with the music Umberto Fanni, acting director-general of the ROHM

fate when the heroic Calaf, Prince of a vanquished realm, arrives on the scene and falls in love with the fatefully beautiful princess.

Set in ancient imperial China,

Regal splendour The morning after his famous declaration “I shall win!!! I shall win,” Calaf solves the riddles, but an enraged Turandot refuses to marry him. Calaf’s love is so great that he offers to sacrifice his life for Turandot’s satisfaction. What happens next is quite unexpected.

The 2011 production was of a grandeur seldom seen in recent times on the great opera stages of the world. Indeed, the regal splendour of the sets might well have surpassed the decoration of the imperial court in ancient China.

An imperial palette of burnished gold, ethereal blue, and pale ivory was chosen for the sets as well as the costumes.

the opera unfolds a compelling story based on a twelfthcentury tale

Times News Service MUSCAT: As the Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) enters its fifth year of operation, the inaugural opera, Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot, will return in all its glory.

The original production of the opera was commissioned by famous Italian filmmaker and set designer Franco Zeffirelli.

One of the world’s most important opera interpreters, Zeffirelli is renowned for productions with authentic detailing. Following the inaugural performance of Turandot on October 12, 2011, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who had graced the occasion with his presence, conferred the Order of Oman, First Class, on Franco Zeffirelli to honour him for a lifetime of outstanding achievement in the arts, and to recognise the excellence of his contribution to the inauguration of the ROHM. Evocative music The magnificent sets and costumes that Zeffirelli designed remain the property of the ROHM and will be used for the upcoming performances on October 1, 3 and 4. The opera will be performed once again by the prestigious Fondazione Arena di Verona.

Turandot is loved most of all for its beautiful and evocative music.

Puccini (1858-1924) was ahead of his time as a master of innovative

RECOGNITION: Following the inaugural performance of Turandot on October 12, 2011, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, who had graced the occasion with his presence, conferred the Order of Oman, First Class, on Franco Zeffirelli to honour him for a lifetime of outstanding achievement in the arts, and to recognise the excellence of his contribution to the inauguration of the ROHM. – Supplied photo

orchestration, using new, powerfully expressive motifs, along with evocative Oriental melodies to impart to the music, greater drama and an exotic flavour.

Set in ancient imperial China, the opera unfolds a compelling story based on a twelfth-century tale narrated by an Iranian poet.

Turandot is a princess of leg-

endary beauty whose heart is cold as ice. She believes that Princess Lou-Ling, a powerful ancestor who once ruled the kingdom, is part of her own psyche. Lou-Ling reigned in peace and happiness until the fateful day when a conquering prince seized the throne and savagely murdered her.

Vowing never to let a man into

her life, Turandot is bent on revenge and self-protection. An imperial law decrees that any man who desires to marry Princess Turandot must first attempt to solve three almost impossible riddles; and if he fails, he will be executed.

The fair young Prince of ancient Iran has just suffered this

Zeffirelli’s genius Umberto Fanni, acting directorgeneral of the ROHM, Muscat, remarked: “Franco Zeffirelli’s genius is to create staging that complements the action and flows with the music.”

“His production has tremendous visual impact. For Turandot, Puccini turned to the Far East as a setting for what would be his final opera, as he had done nearly two decades earlier for Madame Butterfly.

The allure of the Far East was widespread among composers, writers, artists and designers of Western Europe during the early 20th century, and so Turandot is an enchanting Western fantasy of what ancient China might have been. Zeffirelli makes this fantasy seem wonderfully real,” he added.

Exciting new talent A cast of more than 250 opera stars, singers, actors, musicians and chorus have arrived in Muscat from Verona. But this time, the 50 extras did not come from Verona as they were locally recruited. ROHM’s 2015 Turandot features exciting

new talent, including the 27-yearold rising star, Andrea Battistoni, who conducts the orchestra, along with the fabulous Italian tenor, Carlo Ventre, who sings Calaf, and Swedish soprano Iréne Theorin, who has been hailed by opera-britannia.com as ‘the world’s reigning Turandot,’ in the title role.

Carlo Ventre is a spinto tenor, that is, a singer whose voice has both lyric and dramatic capability and can ‘slice’ through the sound of the orchestra.

Signature aria When the plot reaches its first great climax Carlo will sing one most beautiful arias in all of opera. Nessun Dorma (None shall Sleep), which became ‘immortal’ as the signature aria of Luciano Pavarotti.

Iréne Theorin, whose voice has been described as “pure and gleaming,” sang her first Turandot in 2005, and over the past decade has perfected her interpretation of the role. One of the leading singers from the 2011 performance returns. Irina Lungu, who sang Turandot now stars in the role of Liu, the loyal slave girl who is secretly in love with Calaf and sacrifices her life for him.

Among world’s leading With her shimmering voice full of ‘brightness, warmth and bloom’ (The New York Times), Lungu now ranks among the world’s leading opera singers, and is bound to enrich the production.

After the spectacular success of the Jonas Kauffman Concert and a grand celebration of the Thirtieth Anniversary of The Royal Oman Symphony Orchestra, ROHM’s ‘World-Class Quality Season’ continued with an exciting encore of its great inaugural opera.

Those who saw Turandot in 2011 will get another chance to immerse themselves in this sumptuous experience, and those seeing it for the first time will witness a production of legendary magnificence.

DIPLOMACY

INFORMATION MINISTER MEETS EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Dr. Abdul Munim bin Mansour Al Hasani, Minister of Information, on Wednesday met editors-in-chief of local newspapers in his office in the presence of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information and the Director General of Information. The meeting discussed a number of issues related to information work, and the obstacles and difficulties faced by the local press at the current stage, and to find appropriate solutions. A number of officials of the Ministry of Information also attended the meeting. -ONA

Alawi meets Lavrov at UN

BOOSTING TIES: Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs, held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Norwegian Foreign Minister Borg Brende and Lebanese Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil separately in New York. – ONA

NEW YORK: Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs separately met on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with Sergey Lavrov, Russian Foreign Minister, Borg Brende, Norwegian Foreign Minister and Gebran Bassil, Lebanese Foreign Minister.

The meeting reviewed the

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bilateral relations between the Sultanate and these countries and means of enhancing and promoting them in various fields.

The meeting also discussed the

latest developments at the regional and international arenas, particularly the refugees issue and the situations in Syria, Yemen and the occupied Palestinian territories.

The meetings were attended by Hunaina bint Sultan Al Maghiriyah, the Sultanate’s Ambassador to the US and the delegation accompanying bin Alawi. -ONA

I N I T I AT I V E

Gift a smile to a suffering child Time News Service MUSCAT: Do you want to donate new toys for children?

What’s Happening Muscat, Oman? (WHMO), a popular Facebook page in Oman, has launched a “Toys for Children” drive for children who are sick.

“We are hoping to get enough toys together and put smiles on the faces of some very brave children,” said Jo James (JoJo Bird), the administrator of WHMO, which has more than 23,000 members in the group.

The toys are for children belonging to the age group of one

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month to 12 years. “The toys must be new, as giving second hand used toys may pass on infection if they are not properly sterilised,” she told Times of Oman.

The Toys for Children drive aims to collect as many toys as possible in the next week or so. “ WHMO is asking their members to donate new toys for children. We recently helped a family

of a mother from the Philippines who passed away from cancer leaving six small children. We raised nearly OMR800 over a weekend. “WHMO really does come together at such times,” she added.

She also said that they have a number of drop off points all over Oman, and members can drop toys off prior to their visit the day the toys are handed out next week If anyone would like to drop off a new toy can they can visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/ whatshappeningmuscatoman/ and request to join the group and the Toys for Children drive.

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M I N I S T R Y O F H E A LT H

‘Work on five new hospitals progressing as per plan’ MUSCAT: In view of the government’s efforts to expand the health services umbrella and meet the needs created by population growth, the Ministry of Health said it is proceeding with its plans to build five new hospitals.

The new hospitals will be built in the Governorates of Musandam, North Al Batinah, North Al Sharqiyah and South Al Batinah, said Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Saeedi, Minister of Health in a statement to the Oman News Agency.

He added that the final designs for the Khasab Hospital in the Governorate of Musandam and the Al Najat Hospital, which will serve residents of the wilayat of Shinas and Liwa in North Al Batinah, have been completed and sent to the Tender Board.

The contractor will complete the final designs for the Saham Hospital, which will serve the residents of the wilayats of Saham and Al Khabourah, and Al Nama Hospital in the wilayat of Al Mudhaibi next October. The final designs for the Al Suwaiq Hospital will be sent to the Tender Board, sometime in mid-October. As for the other projects, the Minister pointed out that his Ministry is implementing a number of health projects as per the pre-set health plans, which have been revised in light of the current developments.

Work has already started at the said five hospitals and some of them have completed the final designs. The Ministry is waiting for the remarks of the Tender Board on the designs.

Meanwhile, the Al Nama’a Hospital in the Wilayat of Al Mudhaibi will include outpatient clinics, an accident and emergency department, an operation room, a delivery ward, medical labs and radiology, a department in addition to the inpatients wards, an ICU, a Paediatric ICU, a service building and other facilities. -ONA

OMAN

Oman on course to raise genetic expert numbers raising public awareness on important issues, such as pre-marital testing.

Ten Omani medical experts, representing all the governorates, have been selected for the nine-module training course

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

elham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Around five genetic counsellors are expected to become available in each region of Oman in 10 to 15 years as the National Genetic Centre began a first-of-its-kind genetic counselling course on Wednesday.

Genetic counselling, as a specialty and science, was introduced in 2005-2006 and is considered a fledgling field all over the world, Dr. Musallam Said Al Araimi, Molecular and Community Geneticist at the National Genetic Centre, told the Times of Oman.

According to him, there are currently only two qualified genetic counsellors available in Oman. The geneticist made these comments after a training programme was launched by the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Saeedi.

Ten Omani medical experts, representing all the governorates, have been selected to participate in the ‘on-the-job training course,’ which comprises

Dr Musallam Said Al Araimi, molecular and community geneticist, National Genetic Centre. –Supplied photo

of nine modules and includes training on theoretical concepts, as well as clinical and laboratory rotations. The course features various subjects, such as Down Syndrome, cancer genetics, newborn screening programme, practical ethics, metabolic disorders, genetic law and guidelines, the psychological aspects of genetic counselling and the impact of consanguinity or an intermarriage of genetic disorders.

16-month course Al Araimi, who developed the curriculum for the 16-month course and is the chief organiser of the event, said this is the first time that such a well-defined genetic counselling course is being offered in the region.

Genetic counsellors can help provide necessary information on genetic disorders to the patients and their families in simple and understandable terms, provide guidance and psychological support, and help secure financial support in cooperation with the authorities.

They can also play a crucial role in promoting the prevention of genetic disorders by

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Certificate Al Araimi said that after the trainees complete the course, they will be issued an ‘on-job certificate degree in genetic counselling,’ which will make them eligible for post-graduation study, such as pursuing a Masters degree in the subject.

“So, for them, a Masters degree will be shorter than the usual two years,” he added.

He added that the centre plans to encourage the trainees to pursue post-graduate degrees and therefore the whole team will be sent abroad or will be provided with an opportunity to complete their Masters degree in Oman.

Al Araimi said the centre also plans to train more individuals in genetic counselling after the first batch completes their training.

It is expected that around five genetic counsellors will become available in each region in Oman during the next 10 to 15 years, he added.

Follow-ups According to him, certain mechanisms will also be put in place to follow up the performance of those who have received training. They will be placed under the governorate’s Directorate, but will also coordinate with the Centre for practical, management and educational activities, Al Araimi explained.

“We also plan to have an integrated tutorial programme for doctors. This will be about the basics of genetics and use of molecular genetics,” he noted, adding that the programme will be launched in 2017.

PILGRIMAGE

11,200 went for Haj from Oman this year MUSCAT: A total 11,200 pilgrims went from the Sultanate to perform the Haj this year, statistics released by the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) reported. The number showed stability during the period from 2013 to 2015.

The stability of the Sultanate’s pilgrims (Omanis and residents) is attributed to the stability of the Sultanate’s quota, with expectations that number will remain the same in the coming years.

The number of Omani pilgrims was 10,015 , forming 89.4 per cent , while the number of Arab residents

was 580 pilgrims and non-Arabs 605 pilgrims, forming 5.2 per cent and 5.4 per cent, respectively.

Statistics Statistics showed a 31.6 per cent decline in the number of Omani pilgrims between 2012 and 2015.

The number of Omani pilgrims in 2010 amounted to about 13,220, fell to 13,045 in 2011, and went up to 14,638 in 2012 before it was fixed at 10.000 pilgrims in the years 2013, 2014, and 2015.

In contrast, the number of nonArab pilgrims was stable in 2014 and 2015. - ONA

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TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015 We are focused on two critical areas for the development of Omani executives in this module Professor Michael Wade, Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation

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Programme to boost top Omani executives Sponsored by the Public Private Partnership Committee, the programme is aimed at promoting latest leadership thinking among senior private sector leaders

SHAPING SKILLS: The 30 participants of the programme were selected from across Oman’s industry sectors and organisations, of which 34 per cent are from small and medium enterprises.

Times News Service MUSCAT: With the blessings of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, and for fostering leadership in the private sector and achieving a distinctive milestone in the region, the National CEO Programme (NCP) has completed Module 2 of a 6-module year-long programme.

Sponsored by the Public Private Partnership Committee, the programme is aimed at delivering latest leadership thinking and research among a cross-section and cross-region community of senior private sector leaders.

The 30 participants of the programme were selected from across Oman’s industry sectors and organisations, of which 34 per cent are from small and medium enter-

prises representing seven governorates.

Professor Michael Wade, Professor of Innovation and Strategy and Cisco Chair in Digital Business Transformation, commented on Module 2, “We are focused on two critical areas for the development of Omani executives in this module.”

Successful innovations “Firstly, the need to think ‘outside of the box’ and translate those ideas into successful innovations. We worked with tools to evaluate innovation across the entire organisational value chain.”

He continued, “We also focused on quantitative skills and financial acumen. The participants were made to understand the funda-

mentals of finance, value creation, and mergers and acquisitions.”

NCP Director, Lynn Sadler commented, “The wealth of tools and knowledge from our learning partners at IMD are key enablers of leadership, which the programme participants can deploy for the benefit of their organisations and stakeholders. They are part of the CEO’s toolbox, which we’ll add to as the learning process continues.”

The National CEO Program Module 2 concluded a successful week of classes covering innovation and finance.

The module looked at the role of innovation, entrepreneurship, and breakthrough thinking in business. Corporate innovation was extensively taught from a variety of perspectives, including how to

innovate across the organisation value chain, how to build a culture of innovation, and how to use innovation to disrupt organisations and industries.

The participants were given the tools to make well-informed financial decisions, including coverage of financial statements, financial ratios, managing cash flow and financial value creation.

They also learnt how to value an organisation, and understand the valuation of financial markets, leading to a discussion on mergers and acquisitions. Finally, they considered the financial trends that will affect future competitiveness in the Middle East and across the world.

Patronage The initiative was launched in April 2013 about the Public-Private Partnership Committee as an extension of the patronage of His Majesty the Sultan for the private sector, and in order to enable the sector to play its role as an active partner in the social and economic development of Oman.

The committee includes six ministers and six members from the private sector that are selected in rotation from among 30 representatives of the sector, including business owners who have been chosen by a wider private sector group.

The initiative is an inclusive effort structured in a manner that allows for the rotation of private sector members, thereby including a broad number of participants and views from the private sector.

CABLES

HM sends greetings MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of congratulations to President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China on the occasion of his country’s National Day. In his cable, His Majesty the Sultan expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Jinping and the Chinese people further progress.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has also sent a cable of congratulations to President Nicos Anastasiades of the Republic of Cyprus on the occasion of his country’s Independence Anniversary.

In his cable, His Majesty has expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and wellbeing to President Anastasiades and his country’s people further progress.

His Majesty the Sultan has also sent a cable of congratulations to President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria on the occasion of his country’s National Day. In his cable, His Majesty expressed his sincere congratulations along with his best wishes of good health and happiness to President Buhari and the people of Nigeria further progress and prosperity. -ONA

T W O - D AY V I S I T

British defence secretary arrives

MUSCAT: Michael Fallon, Secretary of State for Defence in the United Kingdom and his accompanying delegation arrived on a two-day visit to Muscat on Wednesday.

The UK official and his accompanying delegation will visit the Special Economic Zone in Duqm. They will tour its facili-

ties and installations, and meet with officials of the Special Economic Zone Authority of Duqm (SEZAD).

The British guest and his accompanying delegation were received at Muscat International Airport by head of the Military protocols and Public Relations at COSAF. -ONA

CRACKDOWN ON CRIMINALS

GCC national arrested for dealing in drugs Staff Reporter MUSCAT: A Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) national was arrested by the Directorate of Narcotics Control of the North Al Batinah Police Department for smuggling, possession and trading in narcotics.

Officers seized two blocks of hashish and some money earned from selling the drugs.

13 arrested for prostitution The Directorate General of Inquiries and Investigations arrested 13 Asians, including eight women, on charges of carrying out prostitution in a rented house in the Central Salalah area.

Following the incident, the Royal SCHOOL BUSES

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School A1 bus safety In January 2014, three students of Pakistan School were killed when it spanned out of control, and hit the truck at the Qurum Heights Road killing three children besides injuring several others.

In February 2014 a school bus carrying 37 pupils of the Indian School Sur was involved in a head-on collision with a car, killing the driver and the passenger of the car.

Wadi Kabir In April 2014 Four Indian School Wadi Kabir (ISWK) students were injured when their school bus met an accident in front of the Sheraton signal at around 3pm on Sunday.

In 2012, a 10-year-old old Indian School Seeb (ISS) student was killed when the driver lost control over the bus while overtaking and hit a road divider.

Fifteen other students were also injured in that crash.

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The Public Authority for Electricity and Water apologised for the inconvenience caused and advised subscribers to take necessary measures to store water and to use it sparingly.

Oman Police (ROP) called on realtors and property owners to ensure the identity of the renter before renting the property out and report any acts of violation against public regulations.

Kidnappers arrested A housemaid was kidnapped by four Asians after she left her employee’s residence in the Saada area in Salalah. The kidnappers reportedly detained her and tied her up in a rented house.

After investigations, the Directorate General of Inquiries and Investigations of Dhofar ROP, were able to arrest the suspects, who confessed to their crime.

The suspects have been sent to the public prosecution for further

action into the matter, pending a court hearing.

Four arrested for robbery Three cases were registered with the Shinas ROP after the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) arrested four individuals in separate robbery cases.

The first case involved two Omani nationals, who had stolen an expat’s ATM card and pin number while helping him complete some immigration requirements.

They reportedly stole OMR600 from the expat’s account. In the second case, the CID received a call from a national regarding an expat janitor, who had asked for the key to labourers’ quarters for cleaning. The janitor reportedly

G E N E VA

38 held in Buraimi A foot patrol team affiliated with the Buraimi ROP arrested 38 expats, belonging to different Asian nationalities.

Twenty of them were charged with illegally entering the Sultanate while the residency statuses of remaining 18 had expired. Legal procedures have been initiated and the detainees were sent to the relevant authorities.

BILLION TOURISTS

Oman condemns Israeli intrusion of Palestinian land MUSCAT: Oman has condemned the Israeli violations of Arab and Palestinian territories.

In the Sultanate’s speech before the 30th session of Human Rights Council, Abdullah bin Nasser Al Rahbi, the Sultanate’s Ambassador and its Permanent Delegate to the UN and other organisations in Geneva, affirmed the importance of Article 7 of the Human Rights Council session which discussed ‘the Status of Human Rights in Palestine and other Arab occupied territories.

This Article is meant for noble human purposes and not related to politics or employs double standards. “While condemning the Israeli violations of Arab and Palestinian occupied territories, Oman appreciated some countries’ respect for this Article, he added.

“The Sultanate severely condemned the dangerous escalation

by Israel, the occupation force, its recurrent assault on Al Aqsa mosque, limitation of freedom of worship and systematic attempts to Judaise Al Quds occupied city, change of its demography and isolating it from the Palestinian surrounding,” he added.

He said that Gaza Strip, which is part of the Palestine State, is still under the Israeli siege for years now. These acts are blatant violations of the civil, economic,

stole OMR2,000 from their room.

In another case, an expat entered his colleague’s bedroom through a window and stole OMR1,000 and 40 phone recharge cards. All the accused have been referred to the public prosecution for further investigations.

The Sultanate condemned the dangerous escalation

by Israel, its recurrent assault on Al Aqsa mosque, its further limitation of freedom of worship and systematic attempts to Judaise Al Quds city social and cultural rights of the Palestinian people despite the many international calls to lift this siege.

He also affirmed that the Palestinian right to self-determination is one of the pillars for a people that have been deprived of its land and home country. “The Sultanate’s delegation, thus calls for forcing Israel, the occupation force, to comply with international calls and resolutions and withdraw from all the Palestinian and Arab occupied lands including the Syrian Golan Heights as this will lead to comprehensive and fair peace, a desire for all in the region,” he concluded. -ONA

Oman Tourism College marks tourism day MUSCAT: Oman attaches great importance to the development of tourism and Oman Tourism College (OTC) marked on Wednesday the World Tourism Day (which falls on September 27 every year). The celebration this year was held under the theme “Billion Tourists ...

Billion Opportunity.”

A tourist forum was held with the participation of experts from the Sultanate, the United States and the European Union, and tourism specialists from hotels, travel and tourism companies, tourism developers from the Ministry of Tourism, and a number of operating companies in the field of tourism.

Several seminars were held on the sidelines of the forum.

They included a number of themes related to the theme of this year. The participants discussed the available potentials in the tourism sector to drive economic growth, protect the environment and promote sustainable development, as well as the contribution of the tourism sector in building mutual understanding and preservation of cultural heritage.

Oman’s tourism potential gives it an edge on the world tourist map, as security and stability along with cultural, historical and natural diversity, in addition to the tourism services are important elements in securing tourist flow.-ONA

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015 The men were among 18 employees of major Turkish construction firm Nurol Insaat abducted on September 2 in the Sadr City area of north Baghdad, where they were working on a football stadium project.

REGION

Russia launches first air strikes in Syria Russia would not get sucked into a protracted military operation in Syria, said President Vladimir Putin

MOSCOW: Russia launched air strikes in war-torn Syria on Wednesday, its first military engagement outside the former Soviet Union since the occupation of Afghanistan in 1979.

Russian warplanes carried out strikes in three Syrian provinces along with regime aircraft as President Vladimir Putin seeks to steal US President Barack Obama’s thunder by pushing a rival plan to defeat IS militants in Syria.

But France immediately raised doubts over whether the Russian raids were aimed at IS. Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius told reporters at the United Nations in New York that there “were indications that the Russian strikes did not target IS”.

Putin, who earlier Wednesday won parliamentary permission to use force abroad, warned Russia would be hunting down IS militants before they target Russia.

Putin also said Assad should be ready for compromise with the opposition. “We are counting on his active and flexible position, his readiness for compromise for the sake of his country and his people,” Putin said in televised remarks. He pledged that Russia would not get sucked into a protracted military operation in Syria and called on countries to join an intelligence task force

DEVASTATED: A picture taken on September 30, shows damaged buildings and a minaret in the central Syrian town of Talbisseh in the Homs province. Russian warplanes carried out air strikes in three Syrian provinces, including Homs, along with regime aircraft on Wednesday, according to a Syrian security source. – AFP

Moscow is setting up with Iran, Iraq and Syria. Russia will also present a UN draft resolution to the Security Council on countering terrorism to build up the fight against IS, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.

Addressing the General Assembly for the first time in a decade, Putin on Monday proposed creating a UN-backed coalition to fight the militants.

Putin’s proposal is seen as a direct challenge to Obama who has vowed to crush IS and called on countries to join the United States in its campaign.

Russia’s air strikes drew a rebuke from Washington which has expressed concern that Moscow’s support for its Soviet-era ally may complicate operations of the USled coalition.

US Secretary of State John Kerry told Lavrov that Moscow’s move “runs counter to their stated efforts of deconfliction and is not helpful to that effort,” a senior US

official said. American officials insisted Russia’s strikes would not alter their coalition’s strategy.

Putin is seeking to muscle his way back onto the world stage after months of Western isolation following Russia’s seizure of Crimea from Ukraine and support for a separatist insurgency in the east of the ex-Soviet country.

Putin and Obama agreed at a meeting this week that their defence and foreign ministries would be in contact on Syria.

“They gave us a heads-up they were going to start striking in Syria,” a US defence official said. “It was in the vicinity of Homs.”

The upper house of the Russian parliament, the Federation Council, had earlier Wednesday unanimously approved Putin’s request to use force abroad. The decision was taken after Assad asked Russia for military support.

Putin’s chief of staff Sergei Ivanov said the Syria operation would be limited in duration and

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ruled out ground operations by Russian troops.

Putin had also sought permission from parliament to deploy military forces in Ukraine ahead of Russia’s annexation of Crimea last year.

Washington and its allies blame Assad for the mayhem in Syria, where four years of bloodshed have killed more than 240,000 people.

Washington says the Syrian leader must go if the Islamic State group is to be defeated.

Russia argues however that the West should support Assad in his fight against the militants.

France meanwhile said it had launched a probe into Assad’s regime for alleged crimes against humanity, saying it was forced to act in the face of “systematic cruelty”. France, which is part of the US-led coalition, carried out its own first air strikes against extremist positions in Syria on Sunday. — AFP

CONSTRUCTION WORKERS

16 Turkish hostages freed in Iraq BAGHDAD: Sixteen Turkish workers who had been kidnapped in Iraq nearly a month ago were freed on Wednesday and are in good health, Turkish officials said.

The men were among 18 employees of major Turkish construction firm Nurol Insaat abducted on September 2 in the Sadr City area of north Baghdad, where they were working on a football stadium project. Two of them were

released in the southern city of Basra two weeks later.

The release of the other 16 had been expected after a video in which the kidnappers said their demands had been met was posted online on Sunday. “Our 16 workers have just been received by our Baghdad ambassador. I talked to some of them on the phone,” Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu wrote on Twitter. — AFP

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TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015 We will develop a real blue-water navy which will dominate the Indian Ocean region. We still lack in fire power Manohar Parrikar, Defence Minister

INDIA ILLEGAL MONEY

Government talks tough on black money in hunt for hidden billions NEW DELHI: When an Indian deadline for declaring illegal assets expired on Wednesday, billions of rupees hidden in foreign bank accounts or funnelled into property abroad will emerge into the light —or so the government hopes.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took power last year pledging to crack down on the “menace” of so-called black money — vast piles of wealth kept secret from the tax authorities — with a battalion of new measures.

A three-month window ended on September 30 allows tax evaders to declare their stash and pay a softer penalty, with immunity from prosecution, or risk up to ten years in jail if they get caught.

“The era of tax havens has come to an end. It is no longer safe to keep your assets overseas illegally,” Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in May, shortly after the Black Money Act was passed.

Challenge On the campaign trail two years ago, Modi claimed Rs1.5 million ($23,000) could be given to

every citizen if illegal funds were brought back from overseas.

But the challenge of cajoling back into the economy the $439.59 billion that fled India illicitly from 2003-2012, according to estimates from the Global Financial Integrity group in Washington, is dizzying.

India is one of the most cashintensive societies in the world, corruption is endemic, and strict tax laws encourage people to keep money off the official books.

The wealthy channel money to tax havens such as Switzerland or Singapore, convert it into jewellery, antiques, paintings or property, or send a relative abroad for half the year to avoid tax.

“The intention is clearly to target Indian citizens who have stashed wealth overseas and want to come clean,” Sonu Iyer, partner for India tax services at (Ernst & Young) said of the declaration window.

“It is a warning before the government brings in a very harsh law.”

The Black Money Act is the latest in a widening crackdown by India’s government, which has set up

ing the names of suspect account holders in May. “Those days when people could hide things abroad and think they will never be found out are largely behind us,” V. Anandarajan, Joint Secretary of the Central Board of Direct Taxes, told a forum last week.

On the domestic front, targets for investigation include temples and ashrams, where lavish donations can be a front for money laundering, and cricket betting.

The property sector too is awash with black money, with analysts saying cash is a component in most transactions.

PLEDGE: A money changer shows new Indian rupee currency notes to a customer while sitting on the side of a road in Kolkata. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took power last year pledging to crack down on the ‘menace’ of so-called black money — vast piles of wealth kept secret from the tax authorities — with a battalion of new measures. - AFP file photo

a team of regulators and ex-judges to identify illicit account holders and repatriate hidden funds.

It has started bringing in biometric identity cards tied to bank accounts and last year handed a secret list of 627 people suspected

‘No witch hunt’ “Realty is one area where black money is huge. Politicians, investors, entrepreneurs park money, then cash it out later,” Pankaj Kapoor, managing director at Liases Foras, a real estate research firm in Mumbai, said.

But the Black Money Act and another new law that seeks to stop properties being acquired in another person’s name have spooked buyers, with sales already taking a hit, Kapoor said.

of concealing money abroad over to the Supreme Court.

The tough stance comes as the global net tightens on tax evaders, with new information-sharing accords between countries and even secretive Switzerland releas-

Five sentenced to death for 2006 Mumbai serial blasts 2002 that left some 2,000 people dead, most of them Muslims.

Prosecutors accused militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba of being behind the 2006 attacks, although a little-known outfit called Lashkar-e-Qahhar claimed responsibility.

Over the course of the nine-year trial, the court examined nearly 250 witnesses.

The accused were initially represented by Shahid Azmi, a Muslim rights activist and lawyer, who was mysteriously killed by unidentified gunmen in 2010.

Wednesday’s ruling is believed to be the largest number of death sentences handed down in one go since 2006, when 11 people were sentenced to hang for deadly bomb blasts in Mumbai in 1993.

Ten of those sentences were later commuted to life in prison, however. Only Yakub Memon, who was hanged in July, had his death sentence upheld on appeal.

The 12 men were convicted of murder, conspiracy and waging war against the state with the coordinated attacks that killed 189 people and wounded more than 800

MUMBAI: An Indian court sentenced five men to death on Wednesday for a series of bomb blasts that ripped through packed trains in Mumbai in 2006, killing nearly 200 people and injuring many more.

Another seven people found guilty of involvement in the attacks in India’s financial capital were sentenced to life imprisonment by the special court, their defence lawyer told reporters.

The 12 men were convicted of murder, conspiracy and waging war against the country over the coordinated attacks that killed 189 people and wounded more than 800.

Defence lawyer Wahab Khan said all 12 would appeal the verdict.

“We still believe they have been

VERDICT: In this July 11, 2006 file photo, a train coach is damaged by a bomb blast at Matunga railway station in Mumbai. A court on Wednesday sentenced five suspected militants to death and gave seven others life in prison for the bomb attacks. - PTI

framed and the court has relied on confessions and not on mitigating evidence,” he told reporters outside the court.

The bombs were packed into pressure cookers and then placed in bags and hidden under newspapers and umbrellas in the trains.

The seven blasts ripped through the suburban trains during the evening rush hour on 11 July 2006.

“Many families lost their breadwinners that day and this judge-

ment brings some amount of relief,” Mahendra Pitale, who lost his left hand during one of the explosions, said.

In all, police charged 30 people over the bombings.

‘Some justice’ Krishna Raghuvanshi, who led the investigation while head of Maharashtra state’s anti-terrorism squad, said he wished all of the alleged conspirators of serial

blasts had been caught.

“There is, however, satisfaction that we could get some justice and closure for the victims and for the city of Mumbai,” he added.

Prosecutors said the devices were assembled in Mumbai and deliberately placed in firstclass coaches to target the city’s wealthy Gujarati community.

They said the bombings were intended as revenge for riots in the western state of Gujarat in

Can appeal conviction The men convicted on Wednesday can appeal to Mumbai’s high court and then India’s Supreme Court.

If those appeals fail they also have the option of making a mercy plea to India’s president.

“The whole process could take a year,” terrorism and security expert Sameer Patil at think-tank Gateway House said.

The Supreme Court has said that capital punishment should only be carried out in “the rarest of rare” cases in India, among a dwindling group of nations that still have the death penalty on their statute books. - AFP

Opinions on the law range from punitive to draconian, with business body Assocham lambasting it in August for spreading “confusion, fear and panic” among investors. The government says it does not seek to name and shame and that its purpose is simply to force shadowy assets back into the mainstream.

“We have said no witch hunts, no fishing inquiries. We are going to take what is declared at face value,” tax official Anandarajan said.

But the crackdown has triggered reports of mass anxiety among India’s rich, who fear difficult questions may follow if they come forward. Only a handful of people are said to have declared assets so far, although authorities say they have received Rs65 billion and expect most to arrive in the final week.

Anil Kumar, a former High Court judge, told a forum in Delhi that the promise of immunity may not be enough to allay fears of retribution.

“There is still ambiguity in the minds of the people, whether this will exonerate them from prosecution,” he said. - AFP U T TA R P R A D E S H

Man beaten to death over rumours GREATER NOIDA: Tension prevailed in a village in Dadri in Uttar Pradesh after a 50-year-old man was beaten to death and his son seriously injured by a mob which barged into their house following rumours that the family had consumed beef.

Around 200 people attacked the residence of Iqlakh on Monday night after rumours spread in the village that a cow has been slaughtered and the beef was stored in his house, police said on Wednesday.

The mob allegedly beat Iqlakh to death while his 22-year-old son Danish was critically injured in the attack and is undergoing treatment at a hospital, they said.

An FIR has been filed against 10 people for attacking the family, six of whom were arrested, police said.

PAC and additional police force from Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr and Hapur has been deployed in Bisrakh area to prevent any communal flare-up, Senior Superintendent of Police of Gautam Budh Nagar, Kiran S, said.

Narrating the ordeal, Jaan Mohammad, a relative of the victim, said, “An announcement was made in a local temple that a cow has been slaughtered here, following which a large number of people attacked our family.”

The victim’s daughter said the mob stormed the house and assaulted her father and brother.”

“They harassed me and also beat up my grandmother,” she said.

The attackers looked into the fridge for beef, but it was only goat’s meet which had been brought for Eid, another woman relative said, claiming that police had later confirmed it. - PTI

I N D I G E N O U S LY- B U I LT

INS Kochi navy warship commissioned MUMBAI: Naval warship INS Kochi, a stealth guided missile destroyer, was commissioned on Wednesday by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, who said the navy has chalked out an indigenisation plan for the next 15 years.

“The navy has chalked out an indigenisation plan for the next 15 years. There is renewed enthusiasm in the defence production units, PSUs and private sector,” he told reporters on board the warship at Naval Dockyard here.

“We will develop a real bluewater navy which will dominate the Indian Ocean region,” Parrikar said, adding, “We still lack in fire power.”

The minister also spoke of a ‘mixed success’ on the missile system technology front.

Indigenisation plan “In the next 5 years there will be indigenisation to a large extent in missile technology,” he said.

The finish of the INS Kochi is as “good as any foreign (naval) ship”, he said, lauding those who built it.

INS Kochi is the second ship of the Kolkata-class (Project 15A) guided missile destroyers.

The contract for three ships

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ANOTHER MILESTONE: Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, R. K. Dhowan (third from left), Chief of Naval Staff, S. P. S. Cheema (fifth from left), Commanding in Chief, Western Naval Command along with other officers during the commissioning of naval warship INS Kochi in Mumbai on Wednesday. - PTI

of Kolkata class was signed as a follow-on of the legendary Delhi-class destroyers, which were commissioned into the navy more than a decade ago.

Designed by the navy’s inhouse organisation, Directorate of Naval Design, and constructed

by Mazagon Dock Ship Builders Ltd in Mumbai, the ship is christened after the vibrant port city of Kochi.

Although conceived as followon of the earlier Delhi class, this ship is vastly superior and has major advancements in weapons and

sensors. The ship incorporates new design concepts for improved survivability, stealth, sea-keeping and manoeuvrability.

With a displacement of 7,500 tons, the majestic ship spanning 164 metres in length and 17 metres at the beam, is propelled by four gas turbines and designed to achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots.

The ship has a complement of about 40 officers and 350 sailors.

The accommodation and living spaces have been designed with special emphasis on ergonomics and habitability.

Enhanced stealth features have been achieved through shaping of hull and use of radar-transparent deck fittings.

A bow mounted sonar dome, the second of its kind in an indigenous naval platform, has been introduced to enhance sonar acoustic performance, according to a navy spokesperson. - PTI

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INDIA

Won’t allow BJP, RSS to scrap quotas: Lalu The RJD chief made it clear that Mandal politics will top his agenda for the elections in Bihar WOOING VOTERS: RJD chief Lalu Prasad addressing an election rally in Begusarai on Wednesday. - PTI

PATNA: Unfazed by an FIR against him for his alleged casteist remarks, RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Wednesday said he is ready to be “hanged” but will not allow BJP and RSS to scrap quotas for the backwards and dalits, making it clear that Mandal politics will top his agenda for the polls in eastern Indian state of Bihar.

“I am prepared to be hanged, but will not allow BJP and RSS to succeed in scrapping reservations,” Prasad said.

The RJD boss, for long considered a messiah of the backward classes, described the electoral contest in the Hindi heartland state as one between “Jungle Raj 2” and “Mandal Raj 2”.

“BJP has given the slogan of

Jungle Raj-2 against which I am saying Mandal Raj-2...what is the crime in saying this?” Prasad told reporters, a day after an FIR was registered against him for his alleged casteist comments.

Addressing a rally to launch his son Tejaswi Yadav’s campaign in Raghopur from where he is making his electoral debut, Lalu had on Sunday described the assembly elections as a direct fight between “the backward castes and forward castes” and given a call to Yadavs and other backward castes to rally behind the secular alliance to defeat BJP-led NDA. The Election Commission had found the remarks violative of the

model code of conduct for elections and ordered registration of an FIR against him.

Several top BJP leaders including its president Amit Shah have warned people against return of “Jungle Raj” if the JD(U)RJD-Congress alliance is voted to power.

The opposition had coined the ‘jungle raj’ phrase to describe alleged lawlessness during the 15year RJD rule from 1990 to 2005.

Lalu and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had quickly latched on to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s recent call for a review of quotas and claimed that the Modi government wanted to scrap reserva-

REMARKS

Modi’s visits need to be backed up with action on ground: Rajan NEW DELHI: Reserve Bank Governor Raghuram Rajan on Wednesday described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as being “ahead of us” but said his visits abroad need to be backed up with “action on the ground”.

“I think it is changing positively,” he remarked on the world view of India in the aftermath of Modi’s foreign visits.

He is a “very articulate spokesman for India”, he added.

“What we need to do is back up his visits with action on the ground which reinforces the good impression that is created,” Rajan told NDTV. The RBI governor, who has often been seen as not toeing government line on the monetary policy and other issues, acknowledged Prime Minister’s initiative to market India as an investment destination but said the message of a strong Indian economy has to be backed up with action on the ground.

“I think he (Modi) is ahead of us. So we have to come up to speed in a number of dimensions.

For example if the idea of India as a strong economy is sold outside and they come in, and they don’t find the ease of doing business, the permissions, etc. people aren’t (happy),” he said.

Expectations He said it is known abroad that “there are some issues that they have to deal with, but it should not be worse than their expectations.

“So I think we need to steadily improve the reality on the ground, this attempt to improve the business environment which is proceeding on many fronts is I think a great step in the right di-

What we need to do is back up his visits with action on the ground which reinforces the good impression that is created Raghuram Rajan Reserve Bank Governor

rection,” he said. Rajan said the relationship between the RBI and the government has been strong, but added that he did not always agree with the finance minister’s point of view.

“Otherwise, the public should start getting worried that the central bank is becoming too acquiescent. In a sense we have to be a gatekeeper and sometimes say no!” he said.

Meanwhile, questioning Narendra Modi’s foreign tours, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday wondered if it behoved the Prime Minister to visit individual companies like Google and Facebook to seek investment, even as AAP said PM’s travels have not brought any concrete outcome and claimed FDI was dwindling.

CPI(M) had on Tuesday ridiculed Prime Minister Narendra

Modi’s remarks that he wants to convert the country’s economy from $8 trillion to $20 trillion, saying his “lack of of knowledge” of the country’s financial system was a “national embarrassment”. “@narendramodi says wants take Indian Economy of $8 Trillion to $20 Trillion? It is National Embarrassment!!!

“PM does not even know the size of Indian Economy which just crossed $2 trillion mark in 2014,” party general secretary Sitaram Yechury posted on Twitter.

Projecting India as a “heaven” for investors during a question and answer session at Facebook headquarters in the US on September 27, the prime minister had said his government is working on deregulation and ensuring ‘ease of doing business’ as he aims to convert size of the country’s economy into $20 trillion. - PTI

tions, a sensitive issue in the state to which B P Mandal, the author of the Mandal Commission Report, belonged.

Sharp polarisation along caste lines had helped Lalu and his party stay in power for an uninterrupted 15-year stint.

Lalu, while making it clear that “Mandal politics” would continue to be his major poll plank, later told an an election rally at Lakhisarai that he had asked Nitish Kumar to take action against one of his MLAs Anant Kumar Singh in connection with the recent murder of a “child of the Yadav caste”.

Singh, an upper caste Bhumihar leader, is under arrest in a case of abduction and murder of a Yadav youth, and is contesting from Mokama this time as an independent.

Lalu also took a dig at the BJPled alliance for not declaring its chief ministerial candidate, saying “Nitish Kumar is the bridegroom of the grand secular alliance, but who is the bridegroom of Modi’s barati?”

Lalu said since the BJP central leadership considered party leaders in Bihar as “bewakoof” (fools), it sent leaders from outside to stump for NDA candidates. - PTI

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A 10

TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

PAKISTAN OUTREACH

US consulate launches site in Sindhi language

BACK HOME Pakistani Haj pilgrims are met by relatives as they return home in Lahore on Wednesday. More than 40 Pakistanis died and more than 60 are missing following a deadly stampede near Mecca, in Saudi Arabia, during the pilgrimage.— AFP

KARACHI: US Consulate in Karachi launched its Sindhi language website at the US Consul General’s residence on Tuesday evening.

The website will increase the outreach as not everyone in Pakistan is fluent in Urdu, said the US consul general Brian Heath.

“Over the years we have increased the number of languages. We have been releasing press releases in Sindhi for some time as well as in Balochi and Pashto, depending on the subject,” he added.

There are 60 million Sindhi speakers locally and globally, the consul general said. “Potentially we will reach millions of Sindhi speakers,” said Heath, adding that it is something to celebrate and not to be ashamed of.

Heath referred to a saying while comparing diversity to a recipe of soup, that more the ingredients, the tastier the soup would be. “If anyone can appreciate the spices of soup, it is the Pakistani audience,” he said.

Speaking to the audience, the Sindh Education secretary Fazlullah Pechuho said that the Sindhi website was not only much needed, it was also a good addition.

“There are around 40 million people living in Sindh and most of them already use Facebook and Twitter in Sindhi,” Pechuho said. — Express Tribune

Government plans Rs44b overhaul of major airports

Rabbani lashes out at civil-military bureaucracy KARACHI: Senate Chairman Raza Rabbani accused on Wednesday Pakistan’s civil-military bureaucracy of corruption and called for an across the board accountability.

“There should be accountability across the board without taking into consideration any sacred or holy cows,” Rabbani said, while addressing a gathering at the Federal Urdu University in Karachi.

According to Civil Aviation Authority documents, the much overdue short and medium term projects will help renovate infrastructure, upgrade facilities and equipment as well as enhance security at major airports

ISLAMABAD: The government is planning a massive Rs44 billion overhaul of major airports over the next two years as part of its new aviation policy announced earlier this year.

According to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) documents, available with The Express Tribune, the much overdue short and medium term projects will help renovate infrastructure, upgrade facilities and equipment as well as enhance security at major airports.

While the documents do not provide specific project details or disclose the source of funding for most of the projects, they outline timelines to complete them, with most slated to be completed over the next two years.

In Quetta, a project worth Rs1.6 billion has been earmarked to

ALLEGING GRAFT

RENOVATION: Passengers of a London-bound state-run Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) queue to enter the departure hall at Islamabad International Airport in this file photo. —AFP

upgrade the terminal building at Quetta airport during the ongoing fiscal year. Work on new passenger bridges, concourse hall and allied facilities are expected to start by the end of September.

Simultaneously, a Rs2 billion revamp of the terminal building and other amenities at Bacha Khan International Airport in Peshawar is expected to commence in October. Further, a CAT- I instrument landing system (ILS) is being installed at the airport Lahore airport is racing against

time to complete installation of a new ILS, the US $25 million CAT3 B — gifted by Qatar. The civil aviation hopes to have the system in place before the winter fog rolls in which virtually shut the airport down last year.

While the ILS at Karachi airport has already been upgraded, the CAA plans to replace old radars with new ones at both Karachi and Lahore airports by December next year at a cost of Rs1.5 billion The CAA also plans to replace

23 year-old aerobridges at Jinnah International Airport in Karachi.

The 12 aerobridges at the airport had been installed in 1992. Under the Rs1.6 billion project, all of the boarding bridges will be replaced with state of the art concourses manufactured by Spanish engineering firm Adelte by October 2016.

The government has also decided to enhance facilities at the new Islamabad airport, whose construction is expected to be completed by 2016. The CAA is

planning to increase the number of boarding bridges from the nine planned to 15. Further, instead of the CAT-2 ILS system, it will install the more advanced CAT-3/B ILS at the new airport.

Boarding bridges With the new international airport in Multan, inaugurated in March this year, attracting attention from six foreign carriers, the CAA plans to install two more boarding bridges by December this year. — Express Tribune

Monitor performance The Senate chairman said while corrupt politicians have looted the country’s wealth the bureaucracy has also been involved in the same practices. He demanded that a separate committee or commission should be formed to monitor the performance of the National Accountability Bureau (NAB). “Who will do the accountability of NAB, which does the accountability of all institutions?”

If a politician is tried in a special court then all others should also be tried in the same courts irrespective of their ranks or statuses, he added.

On September 16, a day after expressing his concern over the ‘disconnect’ in civil-military ties, the Senate chairman had turned down a request seeking discussion on statement of a former minister, who claimed that head of a premier intelligence agency had plotted to topple Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government during opposition parties’ marathon sit-ins in Islamabad last year.

Rabbani had disallowed the adjournment motion moved by PPP Senator Farhatullah Babar to discuss former minister for climate change Senator Mushahidullah Khan’s interview with BBC Urdu, quoting rules. — Express Tribune

A P P R O P R I AT E A M E N D M E N T S

Opposition parties plan to block cybercrime draft bill ISLAMABAD: Dissatisfied with the current draft of the cybercrimes bill, opposition parties plan to block the government from moving forward with the legislation until appropriate amendments have been incorporated in it.

The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI) have drawn parallel drafts to force the ruling Pa-

kistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) into removing certain ‘contentious’ clauses from the cybercrimes bill approved by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication.

“We have serious reservations over [the bill] in its present form and are tabling a set of amendments in the National Assembly,” said Dr Shireen Mazari, the

PTI’s whip in the lower house of parliament.

PPP lawmaker Shazia Marri said: “We have already raised objections over the process [as] the panel did not complete the due process and the bill was rushed through.”

An insider told The Express Tribune that after an election tribunal unseated the then National Assembly speaker Sardar

Ayaz Sadiq, the IT committee led

by Captain Muhammad Safdar refused to hold a public hearing on the bill in accordance with the ruling of the former custodian of the house.

Without consultations The committee hastily wrapped up its work without holding consultations beyond those that took place behind closed doors.

Lawmakers from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) had also voiced their concerns over the bill before they resigned from the house.

A member of the committee said that at a time when the government was not even considering convening an assembly session due to the speaker’s ‘unceremonious’ ouster and the MQM’s resignation issue, Safdar opted for fin-

ishing the challenging task.

An official of the information ministry said the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Bill 2015 was the brainchild of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s two non-elected key advisers – Advocate Khawaja Zaheer Ahmed and Barrister Zafarullah Khan – who played an important role in getting the bill approved from the committee. — Express Tribune

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WORLD

UN urges Sri Lanka to probe missing people Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High

Reports have continued to suggest the existence of secret and unacknowledged places of detention.

These require urgent investigation

Commissioner for Human Rights, said the presidential commission to investigate missing persons should be ‘disbanded and its pending cases transferred

Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein

to a credible and

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights

independent institution’

GENEVA: Sri Lanka must investigate reports of secret places of detention and set up a “credible and independent” body to clarify the fate of people missing since the long war that ended in 2009, the UN said on Wednesday.

Some Tamils allege that the military maintains detention centres and tortures former Tamil rebels who surrendered after defeat.

The military rejects the charge.

Tamils who went missing in the war’s final phase are alleged to range from many thousands to a few hundred.

Secret detention centres “Reports have continued to suggest the existence of secret and unacknowledged places of detention. These require urgent investigation,” Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human

Rights, said in a speech.

The presidential commission to investigate missing persons should be “disbanded and its pending cases transferred to a credible and independent institution”, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said.

The government has yet to clarify the number and identity of detainees still held under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, Zeid said, citing credible reports from activists that 19 people have been arrested this year and some have been tortured.

Surveillance and interference continue in the mainly Tamil areas in the north and east, “including harassment and intimidation by military and intelligence services”, he said, calling for fundamental reform of the security sector.

He was addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva by videolink from New York a day before the 47 member state forum is expected to adopt a resolution that

seeks justice for victims of the 26year war.

The resolution, co-sponsored by Sri Lanka, fails to specify the powers and role of foreign prosecutors and judges in trying war crimes suspects under a national mechanism — a major shortcoming, in the eyes of activists.

Pledge Reformist President Maithripala Sirisena, elected in January, has pledged to pursue perpetrators and in an address to the UN General Assembly in New York said he had two objectives — sustainable development and reconciliation.

“A fundamental requirement in this context is dealing with the past honesty and building a modern Sri Lankan nation,” he said.”In dealing with the past, we will follow a process of truth seeking, justice, reparation and non-recurrence.”

A judicial process with teeth would hold out a realistic prospect of punishment for senior figures in

A11

ex-president Mahinda Rajapaksa’s government and military, as well as Tamil Tiger rebels, who waged a bitter final battle in which the UN has said up to 40,000 people were killed.

“While initial progress has been made by the new government in strengthening democratic institutions, land restitution and finding solutions for internally displaced people, much more work remains to be done, including ensuring justice and accountability,” US Ambassador Keith Harper told the rights council.

The resolution is not binding, but seen as a commitment by the government, which will have to report back to the council on its progress. - Reuters

ECONOMIC BLOCKADE

India breaking international law: Nepalese leader KATHMANDU: A senior Nepalese lawmaker, tipped to be the next prime minister, on Wednesday accused neighbouring India of breaking international law by deliberately halting cross-border trade, forcing the landlocked nation to ration fuel.

Since last Thursday, members of an ethnic minority living in Nepal’s southern plains have blocked a critical trade route into the country from India in protest over the new constitution adopted on September 20.

Officials say cargo movement through other border checkpoints has also declined sharply since last week, sparking fears of a fuel shortage and long queues at petrol stations.

K.P. Oli, chief of the ruling UML party, said the Indian government, rather than demonstrators, was responsible for the border stoppage, in an unofficial protest over its dissatisfaction over the constitution.

His comments reflect mounting public anger in Nepal where many accuse India of being behind the blockade. New Delhi has denied the allegations and urged dialogue with the protesters to end the stand-off.

“India is saying those people (protesters) are in no man’s land, they are blocking the roads so

(Indian trucks) are not being able to supply, that’s not true,” he said.

“There is no gas, no vegetable supplies, no fuel for vehicles, no fuel for airlines, and life is about frozen,” Oli said in an interview.

“We don’t want this type of friendship.”

“India should not violate the treaties and agreements between our two countries, one. Second, India shouldn’t undermine and violate the international norms and rights of the landlocked countries in general.”

More than 40 people have been killed in clashes between police and protesters representing ethnic minorities who say a new federal structure laid out in the constitution will leave them under-represented in the national parliament. New Delhi, fearing instability on the border, has criticised Nepal for rushing the constitution rather than resolving the concerns of the minorities, many of whom have relatives living in India. Oli is seen as the top candidate when parliament votes on a new prime minister to head the government in coming weeks in the wake of the constitution’s adoption.

His comments signify a stronger stand against India which has traditionally exerted significant political influence in Nepal. -AFP

HAVE YOUR SAY Send us your comments at facebook.com/timesofoman blog.timesofoman.com haveyoursay@timesofoman.com

PROTESTS: Nepalese student union activists take part in a protest against India at Kakarbhitta on the eastern Nepalese border with India on Wednesday. - AFP

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PAULA DWYER «

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Justice, the biggest obstacle to climate deal

Location: Al Khairan Village, Yiti Photo: Ravikumar Kannaiyan

T

here is unprecedented momentum for a real international agreement at the Paris climate talks in December: The US is on track to make significant cuts in greenhouse-gas emissions, China has announced a cap-and-trade programme and many others have made commitments of their own.

The biggest obstacle? Justice — or at least two ideas about justice.

The first involves redistribution. As part of any agreement, poor nations, such as Brazil and India, want wealthier countries to pay them a lot of money, both for scaling back their emissions and for adapting to a warming climate.

Their argument has traction. Wealthy nations have agreed, in principle, to provide $100 billion by 2020 to the United Nations’ Green Climate Fund. Last year, President Barack Obama pledged to give $3 billion. (Disclosure: My wife, Samantha Power, is the US ambassador to the United Nations.) Recently China announced that it would give another $3.1 billion, and Prime Minister David Cameron said that the UK would give $8.8 billion. But both Obama and Cameron face significant opposition from their national legislatures — and in Paris, poor nations seem poised to demand far more, perhaps even trillions.

Are those demands justified? Rich countries have a lot of poor people too, and they face multiple demands on their budgets. Though developed nations can be spectacularly generous, they are likely to resist giving many billions of additional dollars in foreign aid. And if the real goal is to help poor nations, the argument for specific funds to combat climate change seems weaker than the argument for a general cash grant, which poor countries could use however they like (for example, to combat malaria).

But poor countries have a second and perhaps more compelling idea: corrective justice. In particular, they call for “reparations,” a term used over the weekend by Indian Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar.

Their contention is that rich nations, which created the problem of climate change, have an obligation to fix it, not least by providing compensation for the high costs that, in their view, global warming has already imposed. Their argument

adds that rich countries have got rich as a result of cheap energy (mostly coal); poor countries should be paid if they are to be deprived of the same opportunity.

That isn’t entirely crazy, but like other arguments for reparations, it runs into serious objections. For one thing, it depends on notions of collective responsibility. Most people in wealthy nations — whether rich or poor, or whether American or British or German — did not intend, and are not personally responsible for, the harms faced by citizens of India. Are they nonetheless obliged to pay reparations?

The corrective justice argument also conflates current generations with past generations. Much of the current “stock” of greenhouse gas emissions was produced by the actions of people who are now dead. The median American was born in 1979. How, exactly, does he or she owe reparations to people now suffering from warmer climates in India, Vietnam or Bangladesh?

There is a subtler problem. Through industrial activity, trade, and technology, rich countries have conferred big benefits on poor ones, not least in the form of improved health and opportunity.

Consider the recent response to the Ebola crisis, life-saving medical innovations or the dissemination of cell phones throughout the world.

A full accounting might require poor countries to pay the rich ones back for those benefits. No one in rich nations is asking for any form of restitution. (And they shouldn’t.)

But if we are really interested in measuring who has helping and hurt whom, a claim for reparations puts the issue on the table.

Some poor countries might respond that they are facing a catastrophic threat against which they cannot easily protect themselves and for which they are not responsible. They might add that even if people in wealthy nations didn’t intend to harm anyone, their own standard of living is a direct product of the coal and oil used to build national economies.

Whether or not the moral arguments of poor nations are convincing, there is a cruel irony. If the economic demands of those nations are exorbitant, they will present serious obstacles to an effective agreement — and if such an agreement cannot be reached, the world’s poorest nations will be the world’s biggest losers. – Bloomberg News

READERS’ FORUM Online visa facility shouldn’t have technical snags This refers to the news story, UAE’s online visa facility lauded by people in Oman (September 28). The method worked for me but it turned out to be nightmare for a couple I know. On my advice, he applied for an online visa for him and his wife and uploaded the required documents. The payment was made and he waited for the visa, which never came. He took the risk of travelling up to Hatta border thinking this would get sorted out there but he was asked to go back. The UAE authorities have to sort out such technical issues so that such kinds of incidents are avoided.

— Mohammad Osama Rawat, Ruwi

Counting the sheer number of hours spent on the job isn’t the best way to measure industriousness. A better measure is productivity, in which the US excels. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development ranked it third in productivity relative to GDP bit.ly/usworkethicsandvoters

Yemen conflict needs to end to prevent more civilian deaths This refers to the news story, Suspected air raid kills 40 at Yemen wedding, (September 29). It is very unfortunate that the unrest in Yemen is still continuing. The death of 40 innocent civilians, including children, at a wedding party is shocking. The fighting between the Saudi–led coalition and the Houthi rebels seems to be unending. According to the United Nations, around 5,000 people, majority of them civilians, have died in the civil war in the last six months. The coalition forces and the rebels should stop fighting and take initiative for a peaceful and lasting solution. This conflict has to end to prevent more civilian casualties in Yemen.

— P. A. Jacob, Muscat Scan this QR code to send letters to the Readers’ Forum, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by mail (Times of Oman, P.O. Box 770, P.C. 112, Ruwi).

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FROM OUR ARCHIVES SEPTEMBER 2000 Workshop on natural heritage concludes MUSCAT: A regional working session on preservation of natural heritage organised by the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Environment, in collaboration with Unesco’s World Heritage Centre and the Omani Commission for Education, Culture and Science, concluded yesterday. The four-day workshop tackled the skill of the development in the field of preserving natural heritage, including the administration plan of preserving the Arabian Oryx sanctuary.

WATER PRODUCTION IN THE SULTANATE From February to April 2015 (in cubic metre) March April

February

25,104.9

27,172.3

27,712.4

TODAY IN HISTORY

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

1791: Mozart’s opera The Magic Flute is performed for the first time in Vienna

Protect the welfare of your workforce through New India’s WORKMEN COMPENSATION POLICY.

1846: The first anesthetised tooth extraction is performed by Dr. William Morton in Charleston, Massachusetts.

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1949: The Berlin Airlift is officially halted after 277,264 flights.

1966: Bechuanaland ceases to be a British protectorate and becomes the independent Republic of Botswana.

0 Source: National Centre for Statistics & Information

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015

WORLD

The presidential palace, which was destroyed during recent fighting, is seen in Yemen’s southern port city of Aden in this September 27 file photo.

US-led soldiers fight Taliban near Kunduz It was the first report of on-the-ground clashes between Taliban militants and foreign troops supporting their Afghan allies during three days of heavy fighting for control of the strategic city ON-THE-GROUND CLASHES: An Afghan National Army (ANA) soldier carries a colleague who was wounded during an offensive with Taliban insurgents in Kunduz on Wednesday. – AFP

KABUL: Special forces from the US-led military coalition in Afghanistan battled insurgents on Wednesday near the northern city of Kunduz that was captured by the Taliban this week, a coalition spokesman and Afghan official said.

It was the first report of on-theground clashes between Taliban militants and foreign troops supporting their Afghan allies during three days of sometimes heavy fighting for control of the strategic city of 300,000. Kunduz is the first provincial capital to fall to the Taliban since the hardline movement was toppled from power in 2001.

The swift re-taking of the city promised by President Ashraf Ghani has failed to materialise, as Taliban fighters dig into positions around the city and mine roads to prevent reinforcements from reaching weary Afghan forces.

They have also placed large containers across streets to further limit people’s movement in and out of Kunduz, said Ahmad Sahil, a local television producer who was inside the city.

In another setback for the government, nearly 200 Afghan se-

curity personnel abandoned Bala Hissar hill, a key outpost in Kunduz that overlooks the city’s main roads, after running out of ammunition and food, said an Afghan security official. Troops fled the strategic position in pick-up trucks and Humvees. Dozens headed for shelter at Kunduz airport, where thousands of police and soldiers have already retreated in the last two days of fighting.

To the south, in neighbouring Baghlan province, a group of 800 Afghan troops on its way to reinforce Kunduz repelled a Taliban ambush and was waiting for bomb squads to clear the road into the city, said Afghan army officer Sayed Ahmad Mujahid. They had only advanced about one kilometre during the day, he added.

Afghanistan’s intelligence agency said in a statement issued late on Tuesday that an air strike had killed Mullah Abdul Salam, the Taliban’s shadow governor for Kunduz province, and 15 others on the outskirts of the airport.

It was not possible to verify the report independently, and the Tali-

ban denied the claim, later releasing what they said was an audio statement from Salam recorded on Wednesday. At least three US air strikes have targeted Taliban positions near the city since the fighting broke out on Monday.

US special forces had been advising Afghan troops while operating from a temporary base at the Kunduz airport for several weeks, according to a special forces commander. Coalition spokesman Colonel Brian Tribus gave few details about the foreign troops’ engagement with insurgents while supporting Afghan forces overnight, including the troops’ nationalities. “Coalition special forces advisers, while advising and assisting elements of the Afghan Security Forces, encountered an insurgent threat in the vicinity of the Kunduz airport at approximately 1am, 30 September,” Tribus said.

He confirmed special forces fought the insurgents, but added: “This was done out of self-defence.

When they encountered the threat, they defended themselves.”

A senior Afghan security offi-

A13

cial said about 100 members of US special forces fought off Taliban attackers threatening to breach the airport in the early hours of Wednesday.

The heavily armed troops, wearing night-vision goggles, left the airport and killed the assailants before returning, added the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

An undisclosed number of coalition troops were dispatched to Kunduz this week to support the Afghan army. “They are in a noncombat role. That said, they also maintain the right to defend,” Tribus said of the coalition forces.

NATO had more than 100,000 troops in Afghanistan at its peak, but most had withdrawn by the end of 2014 and the far smaller mission now is designed to “train, assist and advise” local forces.

In Kabul, Afghan lawmakers called on Ghani to resign over his government’s “shameful” handling of the battle, the latest blow to the leader whose first year in office has been marred by political infighting and escalating violence. — Reuters

NAT I O N AT WA R

Devastation shows extent of human crisis in Yemen ADEN: The shell holes, burntout tanks and endless rubble that now disfigure the Dar Saad neighbourhood of northern Aden illustrate the violence of Yemen’s civil war and point to the challenges facing its other ravaged cities.

Even before the shells started to fall in Yemen early this year it was one of the poorest Arab states, suffering malnourishment, illiteracy, scant medical care, unemployment and weak infrastructure.

Now, after months of war that has left much of the southern cities of Aden and Taiz in ruins from shelling and streetfighting, the northern city of Saada wrecked by coalition airstrikes, and many other areas extensively damaged, Yemen faces an acute crisis. “Yemen is one of the most dire places anywhere,” said World Food Programme spokeswoman Bettina Luescher in Geneva.

Battles between Saudi-backed forces against the northern Houthi militia and troops loyal to a former president continue in many parts of Yemen, but most fighting stopped in Aden in July, and efforts to resume basic services have begun. Reuters toured the city on a visit arranged by the Saudi army, giving an early glimpse at the extent of its destruction, weeks after the end of four months of intense street fighting.

Dar Saad suffered more fighting than most other districts of the city because of its location on a main road north, but even here, the sight of women and children scurrying into an alleyway shows life is starting to return.

Inside Republic Hospital, one of Aden’s largest, but now lying empty, without electricity, and badly damaged by shelling on its first floor, a few workmen this week started to repaint a ward as engineers assessed the work needed to reopen it. Work on the hospitals, on electricity stations, on schools and on restarting some form of police service,

is being paid for by Gulf countries whose armed forces started a military campaign in March to restore President Abdrabbo Mansour Hadi to power.

At Aden’s airport, C130 transport planes constantly land, bringing in relief supplies from Gulf countries. In areas controlled by the Houthis, by contrast, Gulf warplanes are hammering enemy targets - and, say local residents, often hitting civilians too, something the Saudi-led coalition denies. The United Nations says at least 5,428 Yemenis have been killed in the civil war since coalition air strikes began on March 26, but beyond the direct casualties from warfare, many others may have died from a lack of food, medicine and shelter.

Outside Aden’s port, the country’s largest, container ships and tankers could be seen waiting their turn to dock. But a coalition naval blockade and an inability to deliver aid that arrives, has exacerbated the crisis, the UN says.

“Ten out of 22 governorates in Yemen are classified as facing food insecurity at emergency level, that is just one step below famine,” said Luescher.

Near the port, on the isthmus road to Aden’s peninsula, an elderly minibus taxi, its door open and with a yellow stripe along its white side, bumped past a flock of flamingos wading in the turquoise bay on one side, and a burnt-out car on the other.

The driver peered over the spiderweb of cracks spreading from two bullet holes in the windscreen as he drove a woman and child towards Abyan Beach, where the Eid holiday crowds had gathered to enjoy the golden evening sun and warm sea breeze.

Two headscarved girls buzzed along the sand on a quadbike, past a group of a dozen boys playing with an orange football that they had to keep retrieving from the waves. — Reuters

A 14

TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

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the county of Liucheng in Guangxi region

BEIJING: Seven people were killed on Wednesday when 15 letter bombs exploded in southern China, state media said, with blasts reported in multiple locations including government offices.

Police described the blasts, which injured 51 people on the eve of China’s national day, as a “criminal case”, ruling out a “terrorist act”.

They said a 33-year-old local suspect had been identified but

gave no immediate motive and were seeking his arrest.

The explosions occurred in at least 13 locations in the rural county of Liucheng in the Guangxi region, the Nanguo Morning News, a local newspaper, cited police as saying.

They included a prison, a government office and a shopping centre, it said.

Pictures posted online, which could not be verified, showed portions of six-storey buildings gutted and collapsed, and streets littered with glass, bricks and other debris.

Other photos showed overturned cars, victims bandaged and laid on makeshift stretchers and plumes of grey smoke rising above a residential district.

The explosives were apparently placed in express delivery pack-

ages, the official Xinhua news agency said. “The public security department has quickly started to work and has already determined it was a criminal case,” it quoted Liucheng police as saying.

Preliminary suspect A “preliminary suspect” was named as M. Wei, aged 33 and living in the town of Dapu in the county. “Currently, public security organisations are sparing no efforts to carry out investigation work,” it added.

Liucheng county is under the administration of the city of Liuzhou.

In recent years several disgruntled Chinese citizens have bombed local government offices and public places to try to draw attention to their grievances.

In 2013 a man set off a series of home-made bombs packed with ball-bearings outside a provincial government headquarters in northern China, killing at least one person and wounding eight. Xinhua said at the time he sought to “take revenge on society”. — AFP

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Muscat 5,787.69 + 26.84 + 0.27%

Dubai 3,593.28 + 38.85 + 1.09%

Abu Dhabi 4,502.79 + 26.81 + 0.60%

Saudi Arabia

7,404.14 + 66.93 + 0.91%

Kuwait 5,725.96 - 25.24 - 0.44%

Bahrain 1,275.89 + 0.88 + 0.07%

Qatar 11,465.22 + 190.10 + 1.69%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

Type ............................Delivery...........Price

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.28 Pound ........................................... 1.70 Indian Rs ............................. 170.65 Pak Rs ...................................266.60 Bangla Taka.......................199.28

Indian Rs ...................................170.05 Pakistan Rs .............................270.25 Sri Lanka Rs ........................... 362.19 Bangla Taka.............................201.70 Phil Peso ..................................... 121.15

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......14.45

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........$44.04 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$44.04 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ........$45.06 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........ $43.75 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) .........$48.12 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) .........$45.10

* Rates are as of Sept. 30 Source: Bank Muscat

* Rates as of Sept. 30 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......13.95 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............136.25 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............ 129.50 * Rates as of Sept. 30 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Iran seeks joint ventures with Oman Omani firms have been urged to utilise the untapped potential in infrastructure, mining, and development of industrial areas

Times News Service MUSCAT: Omani companies are being encouraged to form joint ventures with their Iranian partners to utilise the untapped potential in Iran in various fields including infrastructure development, mining and the develop-

ment of industrial areas.

Hundreds of billions of dollars have to be invested in these fields over the next 10 years and joint Iranian-Omani companies will be able to take advantage of these opportunities, said the head of Iran’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries, Mines and Agriculture.

“If we start joint economic activities, we will be able to obtain a good market in the region,” Mohsen Jalalpour said at a recent meeting with an Omani delegation, Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported.

In an interview with Times of Oman earlier this year, Ali bin Masoud Al Sunaidy, Oman’s minister of commerce and industry, had said that there are 259 Iranian-Omani joint investment companies in the Sultanate and called for the expansion of Iran-Oman trade ties.

Jalalpour also emphasised the need to enhance economic cooperation between the two countries and said, “The opportunity to develop business and economic ties

has not been available over the past few years due to the sanctions.”

“Iran intends to turn the trade between the two countries into long-term economic cooperation,” he said, adding that Iran’s stability and its position in a region with a 400-million-people market have provided great opportunities for strengthening trade relations between Iran and Oman.

“With regard to human resources and engineering companies, Iran is a self-sufficient country and can have good partnership with Omanis who have good access to financial resources,” Jalalpour noted.

The official also urged the Omani side to invest in Iran’s tourism industry as Iran is expected to receive

more tourists in the next 10 years due to the insecurity in some countries in the region.

Investment in Duqm In another recent development, a promotional campaign entitled ‘An Invitation to Invest in Duqm’ began in the Iranian capital Tehran on Monday.

The latest promotional campaign by the Special Economic Zone Authority of Duqm aimed to shed light on the investment environment in Oman and encourage Iranian companies to invest in the Duqm Special Economic Zone.

The campaign included several meetings with Iranian investors and businessmen to promote

investment opportunities in the Sultanate in general and Duqm in particular.

Ali Akbar Sibeveih, Iranian ambassador to Oman, had said earlier that Iran plans to invest $4 billion in Duqm to implement a number of projects through the participation of Omani companies.

According to the latest statistics of Oman’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the value of Oman’s imports from Iran stood at OMR215.77 million in 2013, showing a 172.2 per cent rise compared to 2012 during which Oman imported OMR79.26 million from Iran. Also, Oman’s exports to Iran totalled OMR124.26 million in 2013.

B2

TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

MARKET MSM index ends higher

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................5,793.47 ...............5,755.48 ....................5,787.69 ................... 5,760.85................. 26.84 ................... 0.47 Financial Index .................................... 6,893.94 ............... 6,847.61 ...................6,893.94 ................... 6,871.32................. 22.62 ................... 0.33 Industrial Index ....................................7,330.55 ...............7,305.94 ................... 7,305.94 ................... 7,326.83................-20.89 .................. -0.29 Services Index ....................................... 3,231.31 ...............3,224.81 ................... 3,225.49 ...................3,220.88.................... 4.61 ................... 0.14 MSM SHARIAH INDEX...................... 904.97 ..................901.93 .......................902.01 ...................... 903.37...................-1.36 .................. -0.15 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 26,558,498 ..................7,384,012 ..................1,091 ...............14,594,156,023 ................ 15 ........................8 ....................20 .........................43

The top gainer was Bank Muscat, up by 5 per cent, while Oman Cements, down by 3.08 per

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

cent, was the top loser ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

MUSCAT: Propelled by trading in large cap financials, MSM 30 Index ended the quarter on a positive note at 5,787.69 points, up by 0.47 per cent.

On the other hand, MSM Sharia Index declined by 0.15 per cent to close at 902.01 points.

Bank Muscat was the most active in terms of volume as well as turnover. Also, the top gainer was Bank Muscat, up by 5 per cent whereas Oman Cements, down by 3.08 per cent was the top loser.

As many as 1,091 trades were executed in the session generating a turnover of OMR7.3 million with over 26.5 million shares changing hands.

Out of 43 traded securities, 15 advanced, 8 declined and 20 remained unchanged.

At the close of the session, Omani investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR222,000 followed by foreign investors at OMR62,000. Arab and GCC investors, who were net sellers, sold shares amounting to OMR284,000. Financial Index had gains of 0.33 per cent to close

at 6,893.94 points. Bank Muscat, United Finance, Ahli Bank, Bank Sohar and Al Anwar Holding increased 5 per cent, 1.48 per cent, 1.01 per cent, 0.63 per cent and 0.58 per cent respectively.

NBO, Oman & Emirates Holding, HSBC Bank and Oman United Insurance declined 1.35 per cent, 1.01 per cent, 0.89 per cent and 0.87 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index declined 0.29 per cent to close at 7,305.94 points.

Oman Packaging, Gulf International Chemicals, Dhofar Cattlefeed and Oman Cables increased 4.17 per cent, 1.96 per cent, 1 per cent and 0.81 per cent respectively. Oman Cement and Galfar Engineering declined 3.08 per cent and 1.08 per cent respectively.

Services Index advanced 0.14 per cent to end the session at 3,225.49 points. Al Batinah Power, Phoenix Power, OIFC and Ooredoo gained 1.43 per cent, 1.34 per cent, 0.61 per cent and 0.53 per cent respectively.

Al Jazeera Services, down by 1.49 per cent, was the only sector loser. – United Securities

REGULAR MARKET .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 5,242,812 .. 2,864,538...................142 ........... 0.520 ........... 0.572 ...........0.518 ........... 0.546 .............0.520 ........... 0.026.............5.000 ................0.530..............0.540...................0.558................ 1,251,335,138 ......0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 112,150 .............29,141......................17 ........... 0.255 ...........0.260 ...........0.255........... 0.260 .............0.255 ........... 0.005..............1.961.................0.259..............0.257...................0.259....................5,460,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ...................................................... 45,000 ............... 6,145........................3 ............0.136 ........... 0.137 ...........0.136 ............0.137 ............. 0.135............ 0.002..............1.481.................0.137 .............. 0.135...................0.136...................42,574,797 .........0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER................................................ 105,650 ........... 22,503..................... 10 ............0.213 ........... 0.213 ...........0.213 ........... 0.213 .............0.210 ........... 0.003............. 1.429 ................0.213 ..............0.213...................0.218.................. 143,751,023 ........0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 3,928,475 ...... 784,512.....................40 ............0.192 ...........0.204 ...........0.190........... 0.200 ............. 0.198............ 0.002............. 1.010 ................0.204 ............ 0.204...................0.000 .................285,007,229........0.100 OM0000001707 ............OMAN CABLES INDUSTRY......................................21,300 .............39,762......................11 ............1.850 ........... 1.880 ...........1.850 ............1.865 ............. 1.850.............0.015 ..............0.811.................1.880 ..............1.850...................1.880..................167,290,500........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 1,049,164 ......168,820..................... 47 ............0.161 ........... 0.162 ...........0.160............0.161 .............0.160 ............0.001 ............. 0.625 ................0.160.............. 0.161...................0.162..................232,071,840 .......0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 568,826 ............93,915......................31 ............0.166 ........... 0.166 ...........0.163 ............0.165 .............0.164.............0.001 ............. 0.610 ................0.166 .............. 0.163...................0.166...................33,000,000.........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 4,093,668......704,322................... 179 ............0.171 ........... 0.174 ...........0.170 ............0.172 ............. 0.171 .............0.001 ............. 0.585 ................0.170 ..............0.170...................0.173 ...................25,812,900.........0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 270,230 .........205,321......................21 ............0.768 ........... 0.768 ...........0.752 ........... 0.760 ............. 0.756............ 0.004............. 0.529 ................0.752 ..............0.752...................0.756.................. 494,717,615 ........0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ..............................................................53,000 .............12,445......................11 ........... 0.235 ........... 0.235 ...........0.230........... 0.235 .............0.234 ............0.001 ............. 0.427 ................0.230..............0.230...................0.234 .................363,011,208 ........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS .............................................................37,000 ..............11,173........................8 ........... 0.300...........0.304 ...........0.300 .......... 0.302 .............0.302 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.304............. 0.300...................0.304 ..................15,100,000 .........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ...................................................... 114,628 ...........131,590......................17 ............1.150 ........... 1.150............1.100 ............1.150 ............. 1.150............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.100 .............. 1.100................... 1.150 ................. 230,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 1,059,203 ......529,590........................6 ........... 0.500 ...........0.500 ...........0.484........... 0.500 .............0.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.484..............0.484...................0.500 .................276,430,821........0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ................................245 .....................49........................1 ........... 0.200...........0.200 ...........0.200 .......... 0.200 .............0.200 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.200 .............0.190...................0.199...................24,979,592.........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 504,595 ........... 53,209..................... 48 ............0.107 ........... 0.107 ...........0.105 ........... 0.105 .............0.105............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.107 ..............0.106...................0.107....................9,450,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 167,388 .............16,212......................18 ........... 0.097 ...........0.097 ...........0.096........... 0.097 .............0.097 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.097..............0.097...................0.098.....................5,707,792 ..........0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. ...... 42,800 ............ 84,744........................3 ............1.980 ........... 1.980 ...........1.980........... 1.980 .............1.980 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................1.980..............1.950...................1.980..................136,620,000........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 191,700 ..........309,849.....................44 ............1.615 ........... 1.625 ........... 1.615 ............1.615 ............. 1.615 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.625 ...............1.615...................1.625 ................ 1,211,250,000 ......0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 1,169,947 ...... 129,852......................31 ............0.102 ........... 0.115............0.102............0.111.............. 0.111 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.107 ..............0.106...................0.107.................. 22,200,000 ........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 1,159,310 ....... 184,358......................17 ............0.160 ........... 0.160 ...........0.159 ............0.159 ............. 0.159............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.159 .............. 0.159...................0.160................... 46,213,512 .........0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER............................................................ 207,400 ............70,516........................9 ........... 0.340...........0.340 ...........0.340 .......... 0.340 .............0.340 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.340..............0.338...................0.340 ..................75,143,400 .........0.100 OM0000004669 ...........SHARQIYAH DESALINATION ................................10,000 ............ 45,550........................3 ............4.555 ........... 4.555 ...........4.555........... 4.555 .............4.555 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................4.555............. 0.000...................4.575...................44,548,884.........1.000 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 785,882 ........... 67,304......................17 ........... 0.086 ...........0.086 ...........0.085........... 0.086 .............0.086 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.085..............0.084...................0.085...................15,050,000 .........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER .................................................. 548,223 .......... 116,811..................... 26 ............0.213 ........... 0.215 ...........0.213 ........... 0.213 .............0.213............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.213 ..............0.213...................0.215..................152,168,550 ........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ..................................55,714 .............12,728........................7 ........... 0.225 ...........0.230 ...........0.225........... 0.228 .............0.230 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.870 ...............0.230..............0.226...................0.230 ................. 22,800,000 ........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 696,457 ........... 76,959..................... 25 ............0.110 ........... 0.118............0.110 ............0.111.............. 0.112............-0.001 ........... -0.893 ...............0.118 .............. 0.112................... 0.118 ................. 222,034,720 .......0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 152,553.............14,989......................13 ........... 0.099 ...........0.099 ...........0.098........... 0.098 .............0.099 ...........-0.001 ............-1.010................0.099..............0.098...................0.099................... 11,943,750 .........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 691,682 ............63,575......................41 ........... 0.092 ...........0.092 ...........0.091 ........... 0.092 .............0.093 ...........-0.001 ............-1.075................0.092..............0.092...................0.093...................26,678,219 .........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 145,558............ 42,455........................7 ........... 0.292 ...........0.292 ...........0.291 ........... 0.292 .............0.296 ...........-0.004 ............-1.351 ................0.291 ..............0.292...................0.295..................391,487,393 ........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES .......................................... 125,503............ 49,923......................14 ........... 0.396 ...........0.400 ...........0.396........... 0.398 .............0.404 ...........-0.006 ............-1.485................0.400..............0.398...................0.416...................24,359,301 .........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ............................................................21,242 ...............9,346........................1 ........... 0.440...........0.440 ...........0.440 .......... 0.440 .............0.454 ...........-0.014 ........... -3.084 ...............0.440..............0.440...................0.454..................145,583,992........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 23,377,305 6,952,205...................868 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

INDIAN MARKETS

........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......32........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Sensex vaults; rupee rises

PARALLEL MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000001608............OMAN PACKAGING ......................................................6,090 ............... 1,523........................3 ........... 0.250 ...........0.250 ...........0.250........... 0.250 .............0.240 ............0.010 ............. 4.167 ................0.250..............0.254...................0.000 ................... 8,108,965 ..........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 2,581,142 ......390,544...................180 ............0.150 ........... 0.152 ...........0.150 ............0.151 .............0.149............ 0.002............. 1.342 ................0.152 ..............0.150...................0.152................. 220,852,820 .......0.100

MUMBAI: Driven by upbeat global markets and central bank’s surprise 50 bps rate cut on Tuesday, the benchmark BSE Sensex on Wednesday rallied over 376 points — its biggest single-day percentage gain in three weeks — as it retook the 26,000-mark on continued buying in blue-chips.

In line with the trend, the NSE Nifty topped 7,900.

The 30-share index barometer stayed in the green throughout and ended at 26,154.83, up 376.17 points, or 1.46 per cent — its biggest single-day percentage gain since September 9. The index has

added 538 points over the past two days. The broader NSE Nifty soared 105.60 points, or 1.35 per cent, to close the day at 7,948.90.

OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED ............................................15,000 ...............3,030........................1 ........... 0.202...........0.202 ...........0.202 .......... 0.202 .............0.200 ........... 0.002............. 1.000 ................0.202 ............ 0.200...................0.210...................15,554,000 .........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ......................................................... 2,547 .................. 130........................2 ............0.051 ........... 0.051 ...........0.051 ............0.051 ............. 0.051............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.051 .............. 0.051...................0.054 ...................6,375,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002077 ...........AL OMANIYA FINANCIAL SER. .....................................22 ....................... 7........................1 ............0.310 ........... 0.310 ...........0.310........... 0.310 .............0.310............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.310 ............. 0.000...................0.310................... 76,159,413 .........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING.......................................1,370 ...................118........................2 ........... 0.086 ...........0.086 ...........0.085........... 0.086 .............0.086 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.085..............0.086...................0.090 ................... 6,467,888 ..........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 538,198............ 32,863..................... 27 ........... 0.062 ...........0.062 ...........0.060........... 0.061 ............. 0.061............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.062..............0.061...................0.062 ..................91,500,000.........0.100

Rupee highest in 5 weeks The rupee surged to its highest level in five weeks to end at 65.58 by gaining 38 paise against the US dollar as exporters and banks stepped up dollar sales amid aggressive policy measures from the central bank.

Strong rally in equity markets and softening dollar sentiment overseas too aided the home currency. - PTI

.............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 3,144,369 ......428,214...................216 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 7........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BONDS MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000005971 ............B.MUSCAT COMPL. CONVR. B.B.3.5 .....................25,267 ...............2,394........................3 ........... 0.090 ........... 0.095 ...........0.090........... 0.095 .............0.090 ........... 0.005............. 5.556 ................0.095..............0.095...................0.100...................30,795,353 .........0.100 OM0000004628 ...........BANK SOHAR BONDS 4.5 ............................................ 6,077 ..................608........................1 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100..............0.100...................0.109.................... 7,150,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ...................................................24 .......................2........................1 ........... 0.100 ........... 0.100 ...........0.100........... 0.100 .............0.100 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.100.............. 0.101...................0.105...................31,964,268 .........0.100 OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 .......................... 5,456 .................. 589........................2 ............0.108 ........... 0.108 ...........0.108........... 0.108 .............0.109 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.917................0.108..............0.108................... 0.115 ...................32,696,904.........0.100 .............................................SUM: ....................................................................................36,824 ...............3,593........................7 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........4........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

STOCK MARKETS

Foreign funds unload $5 billion as Southeast Asian stocks sink HONG KONG: Foreign investors are selling Southeast Asian stocks at the fastest pace on record as the region’s economic outlook worsens and the United States gets closer to raising interest rates.

Overseas funds unloaded a net $5.1 billion of Indonesian, Thai and Philippine shares in the third quarter as the MSCI Southeast Asia sank 21 per cent. The combined outflows are poised to be the largest since Bloomberg began collecting the data in 1999.

US borrowing costs Record-low US borrowing costs fueled gains of more than 200 per cent in the three nations’ benchmark equity gauges in the six years through 2014, as investors seeking riskier assets poured $16.3 billion into stocks. The deepening slowdown in China’s economy, the largest in Asia, is roiling emerging markets and spurring a commodity rout.

“These three markets will see more outflows,” said Win Udom-

rachtavanich, Bangkok-based chief executive officer at One Asset Management, which oversees about $3.5 billion of assets.

Weaker currencies “Their economies are being hurt by the global economic slowdown and commodity-price slump.

Weaker currencies have also encouraged most investors to withdraw money.”

The Indonesia rupiah has fallen to 17-year lows, limiting scope for the central bank to cut interest

rates amid the slowest economic expansion since 2009. Most Thai economic indicators have weakened this year as exports shrink and the military government struggles to spur local demand.

The Asian Development Bank this month cut its 2015 growth forecast for the Philippines, where net foreign direct investment slid 40 per cent in the first six months of the year.

Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen reiterated last week the central bank’s stance that higher interest rates are likely appropriate later this year. There’s a 41 per cent probability the Fed will raise rates by its December meeting, according to futures data.

Foreigners have withdrawn a net $1.2 billion from Indonesia shares this quarter, the biggest selloff in two years.

The Jakarta Composite Index has dropped 15 per cent in the period, poised for the biggest loss since 2008, while the rupiah has tumbled. - Bloomberg News

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015

B3

MARKET CRUDE OIL MARKET

Asian imports of Iranian oil grow by 10% TOKYO: Asian imports of Iranian oil rose almost 10 per cent from a year ago in August following a landmark agreement on Tehran’s disputed nuclear programme that sets the stage for a significant increase in the OPEC member’s crude shipments next year.

Imports by Iran’s four biggest buyers — China, India, Japan and South Korea — totalled just over 1 million barrels per day (bpd) last month, 9.9 per cent higher than a year earlier, government and tanker-tracking data showed.

Tehran is desperate to recover market share lost under United States and European Union sanctions and boost growth after decades of diplomatic and economic isolation. But Iran’s oil sales look to be headed towards a six-month low in September, down 16 per cent from August, with tanker loading data showing Tehran has struggled to raise exports despite the optimism over the landmark deal.

Massive reserves To entice buyers, Iran has dropped its quarterly price for term oil supplies to the lowest in three years.

It is also offering crude buyers the chance to join joint ventures to produce oil and gas from its massive reserves, some of the biggest in the world.

The sanctions were designed to keep Iran’s exports at around 1 million barrels per day, down from 2.5 million bpd in 2011, and get Tehran to negotiate on its disputed nuclear activities, which Western powers say was a cover for building an atomic bomb.

Under the accord reached in Vienna on July 14, Iran will be subject to longer-term restrictions on its nuclear programme in return for the removal of US, UN and European sanctions. - Reuters

Oman, Bahrain, Saudi set to record huge budget deficits Fiscal policy responses by GCC economies to lower oil prices are likely to be small compared to the loss of revenues over 2015 and 2016, said Fitch Ratings

Times News Service MUSCAT: Fiscal policy responses by Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) sovereigns to lower oil prices are likely to be small compared to the loss of revenues over 2015 and 2016, said Fitch Ratings.

The size of the fiscal challenge VALUE-ADDED TAX: Efforts to boost non-oil revenues have been modest and the varying requirement from cheaper oil varies from coun- for fiscal adjustment complicates pan-regional initiatives, such as plans for a Gulf Cooperation try to country, broadly in line with Council-wide value-added tax. – Bloomberg News hydrocarbon production per capita.

The international rating agency expects Bahrain, Oman and Saudi by other oil exporting-sovereigns adjustment complicates pan- we expect capex to rise as the imArabia to record double-digit defi- are harder to enact, or carry regional initiatives, such as plans proving relationship between the cits in 2015, although all three will greater risks, for GCC sovereigns. for a GCC-wide value-added tax. government and parliament supbenefit from some narrowing next “For example, we do not expect Rationalisation of expenditure ports implementation, and Qatar, year (notably Saudi, where we pro- any change to exchange rate pegs through better-targeted subsi- which is committed to a high level ject the deficit to drop back to 8.7 in the region to ease fiscal adjust- dies and public efficiencies is on of capex until 2020, partly in prepper cent of GDP from 16.7 per cent, ments. Pegs are key nominal an- several GCC sovereigns’ agendas, aration for the football World Cup. reflecting some one-off spending chors against inflation, are backed but can be hard to achieve due to this year) as capex is scaled back by huge reserves and receive spending and political opposition. Kuwait and Qatar Capital spending is therefore Kuwait and Qatar may have more strong political commitment, and and oil prices start to recover.

However, general government the private sector has no experi- the main overall source of adjust- tolerance for maintaining capital debt levels for these three sover- ence of exchange rate volatility,” ment among GCC sovereigns, expenditure in the face of lower oil with current projects generally prices, as they have the lowest fiscal eigns will continue to rise in 2016, noted Fitch in its report.

Efforts to boost non-oil rev- continuing but fewer new pro- breakeven oil prices among GCC as borrowing resumes or increasenues have been modest and the jects going ahead. There are ex- sovereigns ($57 per barrel and $55 es to help finance deficits.

Some policy responses deployed varying requirement for fiscal ceptions, such as Kuwait, where per barrel, respectively).

E X PA N S I O N

We do not expect any change to exchange rate pegs in the region to ease fiscal adjustments. Pegs are key nominal anchors against inflation and are backed by huge reserves and receive strong political commitment Fitch Ratings “We forecast Kuwait to run a budget surplus in both years even with our revised average oil price (Brent) forecast of $55 per barrel for 2015 and $60 a barrel for 2016, and Qatar a small (0.6 per cent of GDP) deficit in 2015, although this rises to 5.3 per cent next year,” the rating agency said.

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T E L E C O M M U N I C AT I O N

Higher taxes on telecoms will hit investment: Ooredoo Oman chief

EXPANSION: The 13th branch of Muscat Insurance in Al Wusta governorate was opened under the auspices of Sheikh Aimen bin Ahmed Al Hoosni, chairman of Muscat National Holding Group. – Supplied picture

Muscat Insurance expands branch network to Duqm Times News Service MUSCAT: Muscat Insurance, a leading insurance service provider in Oman that is part of Muscat National Holding Group Company, has opened its thirteenth branch in Duqm in Al Wusta governorate, under the auspices Sheikh Aimen bin Ahmed Al Hoosni, chairman of Muscat National Holding Group.

“We look forward to catering to the aspirations of the people of the region and protecting them with trust. As a leading insurance service provider, we are committed to living up to the expectations of customers, employees and share-

holders,” said Philip K Philip, group chief executive of National Holding Group Company.

“We look forward to building long term association with the local communities and working closely with them. Growing to serve, serving to grow with our customers,” he added.

Ramesh P. L., general manager of Muscat Insurance, assured the dignitaries that his team would work hard and is committed in providing best in class products and services to its customers with a motto “A friend cares.”

The new branch will be a full service branch, offering all products and services of Muscat In-

surance Company. Muscat Insurance is celebrating its two decades of trust and is expanding its branch network across the Sultanate.

The company draws its strength from proximity to customers, commitment to delivering outstanding service and dedication of its staff trained to delivering right solutions.

The company runs exclusive schemes and benefit programmes for its customers and is one of the most competitive and trustworthy players in the insurance sector. The expansion will help deliver better service, as well as better availability of its products.

DUBAI: A proposal to raise taxes on Oman’s telecom companies to help pay for the country’s budget deficit will put future investment in the industry at risk, the chief executive officer of the Sultanate’s second-biggest mobile network operator Ooredoo Oman has said.

Last November, Oman’s Shura Council, which advises the government, suggested reforms to boost Oman’s non-oil tax income, including a 12 per cent royalty on telecoms operators’ revenues.

“That’s of significant concern to us because it’s a direct hit to our profitability,” Greg Young, Ooredoo Oman chief executive said on the sidelines of a conference in Dubai.

“There’s a direct linkage between our profitability and our ability to continue to invest,” he said.

“Our view is that change is necessary at the company taxation level and should be applied univer-

surplus a year earlier because of lower oil export prices.

Greg Young, Ooredoo Oman chief executive. – Times file picture

sally across all sectors, rather than something specifically aimed at the telecom sector.”

Oman posted a budget deficit of 1.50 billion rials ($3.90 billion) in the first five months of this year, swinging from a 232.9 million rial

Royalties Ooredoo Oman, majority-owned

by Qatar’s Ooredoo, and former monopoly Oman Telecommunications (Omantel) pay 7 per cent of their gross revenue in royalties - or tax - plus 12 per cent of profits in corporation tax.

The company’s capital expenditure to revenue ratio was 34 per cent in 2014, which compares to a global average for operators of about 17 per cent in 2014-19, according to IT and telecoms analysts Ovum.

Greg said his firm could spend so heavily because of current tax rates. But he said Ooredoo Oman’s ratio would likely fall to 30 per cent this year and to below 30 per cent in 2016 as some of its long-term projects near completion. - Reuters

B4

TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

FEATURE

The resource revolution After centuries of wasteful production and consumption practices — facilitated by ever-lower commodity prices that have declined by an average of 0.7 per cent a year in peacetime over the past century — the world is in dire need of technologies that enable producers and consumers alike to do more with less

the shift toward electric and hybrid vehicles – though sales were increasing at a rate of more than 50 per cent annually – until their sales of conventional cars plummeted in key markets. Likewise, many are shocked that the cost of solar power is increashe ingly undercutting that of nuclear, coal, and world gas technologies, even though this shift is in line is on the with a trend that began in 1970. threshold of Companies should devote more attention to developthe biggest business opportunity ments in related industries as well. Automakers must in a century, rivalling both the first high-resolution monitor the consumer electronics industry to track adIndustrial Revolution, which transformed screens to manoeuvre vances in battery technology. labour productivity, and the second, which drill bits through geological formaAnd power companies need to analyse the developmobilised unprecedented amounts of capital tions. Individual companies have pioneered ally to achieve an increase in profits, and many ment of semiconductors to anticipate the likely drop to build cities. The new revolution centres on change in other sectors. have focused almost exclusively on capital and in demand for electricity, after more than a century the third primary factor of production: natuCree and Philips have developed LED lightlabour productivity. As a result, even the most of growth. To win in the resource revolution, comral resources. ing technologies that offer 23 times longer life, successful managers lack the skills to cope with panies must balance technological, physical, and The revolution arrives not a moment too measurably better colour, easier control, and 85 today’s resource-constrained markets. human-capital inputs, while adopting a more intelsoon. After centuries of wasteful production per cent lower operating costs than traditional In this environment, companies cannot comligent approach to organisational design and taland consumption practices – facilitated by incandescent bulbs. pete on the basis of twentieth-century (if not nineent management. ever-lower commodity prices that have deSimilarly, OPower has used behavioural science teenth-century) technologies and practices. There Whether the primary imperative is spotlightclined by an average of 0.7 per cent a year and cloud-based software to motivate consumers is much more value in pioneering new, higher-proing data and analytics or forming new partnerin peacetime over the past century – the to cut their energy consumption by 2-4 per cent ductivity business models, based on five key changes: ships in other sectors to gain access to speworld is in dire need of technologies that annually – a change that is beginning to reshape • Substituting costly, toxic, or scarce materials cialized expertise, aggressive innovation, and enable producers and consumers alike to with cheaper, more efficient, higher-performance, and ambitious efficiency goals are critical. do more with less. Making matters more power markets. And DIRTT (Doing it Right This Time) is building office interiors at as little as half more abundant alternatives.

Forward-thinking entrepreneurs are alurgent, resource extraction is becoming the traditional cost through software-enabled virtu• Embedding software in resource-intensive indusready reaping the benefits of this fast-movincreasingly expensive, as production alisation, waste elimination, and optimisation of the tries to optimize their production processes or products. ing revolution. Those who fail to adapt will shifts to locations that present difficult construction process.

• “Virtualising” processes – that is, moving them out of fail to survive – and soon. — STEFAN HECK & MATT logistical – and often political – chalThese innovations exemplify the massive potenthe physical world. lenges. Meanwhile, levels of air, water, ROGERS*/Project Syndicate tial for businesses to improve resource productivity.

• Embracing circularity, which entails finding value in and soil pollution are rising rapidly in Indeed, using tools provided by information technolproducts after their initial use.

China, India, Indonesia, Brazil, and * Stefan Heck is a consulting professor at the ogy, biology, and nanotechnology, the world can triple • Eliminating waste. other emerging economies.

Precourt Institute for Energy at Stanford growth in resource productivity, raising it to 3 to 5 per The good news is that progress is already being made.

In order to achieve their growth obUniversity. He is the co-author of Resource cent annually over the next two decades.

America’s burgeoning shale oil and gas industry, for example, jectives, companies must fundamenRevolution: How to Capture the Biggest But this cannot occur without strong and forwardhas transformed its entire energy sector by revolutionising retally rethink the way they integrate Business Opportunity in a Century. thinking leadership, which, unfortunately, is sorely lacksource extraction. technology and use natural resources * Matt Rogers, a senior partner at Mcing in today’s business environment. Indeed, managers Today, drilling is not only a dirty process characterized by in their productive processes. Over Kinsey & Company, is the co-author of today seem consistently surprised by the pace of change heavy equipment, toxic mud, and sulphurous fumes. With the the last two decades, companies Resource Revolution: How to Capture and thus find themselves behind the curve. integration of information technology and hydraulic-fracturing have had to improve their perforthe Biggest Business Opportunity in (“fracking”), the central players are experts using joysticks and a Century.

For example, many automobile manufacturers ignored mance by only 1-2 per cent annu-

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Mazda2 SuperStriker on display at malls The all-new Mazda2 is stylish yet sophisticated and is much bigger in size, offering a lot more space, comfort and stability for both driver and passengers

MUSCAT: The fourth generation award-winning Mazda2 SuperStriker is on display at the Muscat Grand Mall and Barka Grand Centre and is drawing the attention of scores of mall visitors.

Winner of the 2014-2015 Car of the Year Japan award, the allnew Mazda2 is stylish yet sophisticated and is much bigger in size, offering a lot more space, comfort and stability for both driver and passengers. Available in Comfort and Prestige sedan and hatchback models at Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributors of Mazda range in Oman, the all-new Mazda2 brings a level of functionality and added-values that exceeds the expectations for a car of this class, says a press release.

A senior spokesperson of TAC comments: “The all-new Mazda2 brings you chic style, and its SKYACTIV technology unlocks quickwitted agility and outstanding fuel economy. This excellent performance is enhanced with elegantly flowing KODO – Soul of Motion design - that reflects the dynamic beauty of an animal leaping into action. The all-new Mazda2 guarantees a comfortable and pleasurable ride in a compact vehicle, thus it is truly a #SuperStriker in its class.”

The fourth-generation Mazda2 with the 1.5L SKYACTIV engine 6 Speed Activematic transmission has a compression ratio of 12:1 that offers excellent fuel economy and performance. The model also features a wide range of cutting-edge technologies such as the Mazda

Connect next-generation car connectivity system.

Based on KODO - Soul of Motion design, the all-new Mazda2 features a chiselled exterior and a plush interior with more space and a bigger boot than before – thanks to an 80mm increase in wheelbase. It offers outstanding safety, eco-performance and the brand’s trademark driving pleasure due to its low-weight body, agile chassis and the brand-new SKYACTIV engines and transmission.

The Prestige model comes with some exciting features such as bluetooth with voice command control on the steering, steering mounted cruise control, commander switch controls and rear parking camera with static line indicators. Sport shift gear switch, push button start/KL entry with

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boot access, traction control system and type pressure monitoring system and many other features are available in both Comfort and Prestige models.

Towell Auto Centre provides service to all models of Mazda and makes owning a Mazda extra pleasant with its efficient after-sale services with the most advanced diagnostic tools, latest software upgrades and highly trained staff who pride in their quality of service. With a network of 13 service outlets and 10 parts outlets spread across Oman, TAC is the only Mazda distributor in the world to win the Mazda Customer Service award five years in a row. With 98.2 per cent parts deliverability, TAC also offers quick, efficient service with genuine parts available for all models.

POSITIVE GROWTH

MGM registers 10% increase in footfall MUSCAT: Showcasing its popularity and unique offerings, Muscat Grand Mall reported an impressive footfall of over 800,000 shoppers as on September 2015, including the holy month of Ramadan and the festive periods of Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. The mall announced that it has witnessed a 10 percent increase in footfall as compared to the same period last year.

As one of the Sultanate’s most popular retail and leisure destinations in Muscat, housing many brands unique to Oman, the mall has had an allure for local shoppers as well as visitors to the Sultanate. To cater to the local customers as well as visitors from across the GCC, the mall organised daily activities that entertained and delighted visitors of all ages, says a press release.

Throughout the year and especially during special occasions, Muscat Grand Mall has been a popular hub for events. During Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr, shoppers had the opportunity to make the most of MGM’s ‘Shop and Win’ contest running between May 15 and July 31, with customers who spend OMR20 or more getting the chance to win one of four Chevrolet Cruze cars. More-

over, during Eid Al Adha, the mall organised a Haj educational event for children. Additionally, a number of interactive competitions, activities and initiatives were organised to engage visitors to the mall.

Home to over 140 international brands, many of which have entered the Oman market for the first time — Muscat Grand Mall has increasingly become the retail destination of choice among the people of the Sultanate. With this influx of new global outlets, increasing the choice for customers, the mall has witnessed a steady boost of visitors.

C E L E B R AT I O N

IRRESISTIBLE OFFER

KR extends its Samsonite Eid offer MUSCAT: Khimji Ramdas Group is extending its Samsonite Eid offer so customers can bag the chance for a free cabin size luggage with every purchase of a Samsonite full-size luggage, says a press release.

Commenting on the ongoing promotion, Rohit Shah, general manager of Khimji’s Luxury and Lifestyle Division said, “Samsonite is the world leader in quality travel and business luggage.

The company has maintained its exceptional quality standards for over a century, and we are very pleased to represent the brand in Oman. We are glad to come up

with an offer that is packed with value for our customers; this offer is not one that you would want to miss out.”

Renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality, Samsonite is an international luggage manufacturer and retailer, with products ranging from suitcases and backpacks to travel accessories. In Oman, the brand is represented by the Khimji Ramdas Group. Customers can buy their Samsonite products from any of KR’s lifestyle stores such as House of Samsonite at Oman Avenues Mall, Aalami – Qurum, Samsonite – Muscat City Centre and at Khimji’s store – Salalah.

IS Wadi Kabir marks Teacher’s Day in style

NEW MODEL

Bentley Bentayga: The luxurious, fastest and most exclusive SUV MUSCAT: Bentley Motors recently announced full details of its pinnacle, sector-defining new model, the Bentayga.

The Bentley Bentayga combines unparalleled luxury with effortless performance and everyday usability. With an all-new W12 powertrain, the Bentayga is the fastest, most powerful, most luxurious and most exclusive SUV in the world. It offers a true Bentley driving experience and showcases innovative technology features, says a press release.

Designed, engineered and handcrafted in Crewe, the Bentayga’s styling is pure Bentley. Sculptural with an elegant, timeless execution, it perfectly balances athleticism with confidence. From the four round LED headlamps and large matrix grille, to the distinctive power line and muscular haunches, the Bentley DNA is apparent throughout.

The Bentley Bentayga boasts the world’s finest automotive cabin, with unrivalled levels of precision.

The detailing in metal, wood and leather – including meticulous tolerances between elements of trim – is the epitome of modern British luxury. This level of perfection is only achievable thanks to the exceptional craft and skill of Bentley’s colleagues in Crewe.

An all-new twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre W12 engine is at the heart of the new Bentayga. The mighty 12-cylinder unit combines efficiency and refinement with ultra-luxurious levels of power and torque.

With 608 PS (600 bhp / 447kW) and 900 Nm (663 lb. ft) delivering

a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds (0100 km/h in 4.1 seconds) and a top speed of 187 mph (301 km/h), the Bentayga is the world’s most powerful and fastest SUV. Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, comments: “The Bentayga is truly the Bentley of SUVs. It redefines luxury in the SUV sector and offers a genuine Bentley experience in any environment, thanks to a combination of unparalleled attention to detail, go-anywhere ability and cutting-edge technology. With this extraordinary car we are looking forward to an exciting period of strong growth and sales success for Bentley. The Bentayga is the next step in our brand’s bold future.”

The Bentayga make its full public debut at the IAA Frankfurt

Show. Customer deliveries commence in early 2016.

Innovative features A suite of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems and infotainment features designed to enhance safety, comfort and convenience make the Bentayga an innovative, advanced and connected luxury SUV. It offers the widest range of on- and off-road drive settings of any vehicle via Bentley’s Drive Dynamics Mode and optional Responsive Off-Road Setting. Up to eight modes are available, allowing drivers, at the simple turn of a dial, to select the perfect dynamic set-up for any surface or road condition. This versatility is complemented by Bentley Dynamic Ride (electrically activated 48V active

roll control) and Electric PowerAssisted Steering (EPAS).

Responsive Off-Road Setting allows the customer to select the appropriate vehicle settings for a wide range of off-road surfaces, while the Driver Information Panel displays information on pitch, roll, wheel articulation, steering angle, compass bearing and altitude.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) including Stop & Go, Predictive ACC and Traffic Assist enables the driver to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. Predictive ACC uses the navigation data, sensors and cameras to predict upcoming corners, city boundaries and speed-limit changes and can then modify the vehicle speed accordingly, improving both comfort and fuel economy.

MUSCAT: Fun and fervour marked the Teachers’ Day festivity at Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) on Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s 128th birthday unerringly along the lines of his words “No one who holds himself aloof from the activities of the world and who is insensitive to its woes can be really wise”.

The first morning of this twoday long celebration was a presentation of a precious pageant filled with an exposé of grandeur of the theatrical and tuneful talents in the making, outstandingly put up by the middle, secondary and senior secondary students in the school multipurpose hall, says a press release.

Every performance ran for less than a couple of hours as the students had to anyway turn their attention to the regular lessons during the time outside of their performance schedule notwithstanding the approaching first summative (half-yearly) exams.

The School Management Committee also hosted a thanksgiving dinner for all the staff members and their families the same evening. The senior-most faculty members thus started the ball rolling by lighting the candles.

Another time the old saying reverberated that thousands of candles can be lighted from a single one but the life of the candle will never be shortened as wisdom never shrinks by being shared.

All members of the managing committee including the principal and the vice principals lit the candles. Harshendu Shah, the chairman of the SMC delivered a very effective extempore. Then nobody had time to look back in time as the merriment made everyone turn their back on the world around.

The soiree was crowned with a garland of extraordinary extravaganza steered by an event management team of high repute.

Teaching and nonteaching staff and their families most enthusiastically pushed the boat out by joining the Very Hungry Caterpillar Game (for gentlemen only), Cinderella’s Princess Makeover Using ‘flotsam and jetsam’ Cartons (for ladies), Tug of War (separately for both genders), and whatnot. Prizes sprinkled, surprises speckled.

The Primary wing staged a buoyant burlesque exposing all the hurdles the teachers tackle in and around their classrooms.

The department of physical education stole the show making it everybody’s affair when even the principal was carried away all the way to the stage to shake a leg. The vice principal read out a message offering a tribute to the teaching faculty.

The evening came to a close as teachers and their families mingled over a sumptuous dinner hosted by the SMC.

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Toyota Prius: A car for the 21st Century Whether it is North America, Europe or Asia, a new lifestyle is evolving globally and more people are signing on to buy the Prius hybrid

MUSCAT: The worldwide appeal and environmental impact of the Toyota Prius has to be seen to be believed. In the story below you will discover the momentous steps that led to the making of this 21st Century marvel – the Toyota Prius, says a press release.

During the 1990s, the global automotive market was still coming to grips with the need for a vehicle which would contribute to reduced emissions, and minimise the impact on the environment.

The situation was ripe for change and a new approach to developing a successful mass-produced environmentally friendly vehicle.

People were getting conscious of global environmental imbalance.

The Industrial Revolution has drastically changed man’s relationship with nature — and not for the better. The modern lifestyle is powered by fossil fuels — petroleum, coal and natural gas. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere alone has increased about 40% since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution. Massive release of CO2 and other greenhouse gases such as methane are producing runaway climate change, with global temperatures projected to rise as much as 4.8 or more by the end of the century.

Global warming is a primary cause of extreme climatic changes everywhere. It is said that global

warming will result in an extreme increase in high temperature, heat waves, and increase in heavy rain. In recent years, we have seen events such as powerful sand and dust storms in the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa, and these are signs that signal even more trouble on the horizon. Dust, itself contributes to global climate change.

Desertification is another threat — not just in the Middle East and North Africa — but worldwide. In Brazil, for example, large parts of the Amazon rainforest may soon turn into desert, with drastically increasing deforestation.

A rise in sea levels caused by global warming is becoming a serious issue. As the polar ice caps melt, it leads to thawing of glacier and tundra and rising ocean levels due to thermal expansion of the oceans. Polar bears moreover are on the verge of extinction. Some small island countries in the South Pacific are already affected by the rising seas, with developed areas sinking, as coastal outlines change shape. Venice is already at risk of being inundated by the end of the century due to the sea.

In this scenario, we have to ask: Are cars the problem or the solution?. The question does arise when we see that cars are one of the problems contributing to this global environmental imbalance due to their emissions. But they can also be a solution.

Facing severe environmental

problems such as global warming, it became necessary to create a new kind of car. As one of the pioneers of eco-technology, Toyota was quick to recognise the severity of the environmental challenges facing the world and decided to take up this challenge.

Toyota’s Top Secret Project “G21” or the Prius project began in the early 1990s. In 1993, Toyota created G21, a project researching future generation cars for the 21st century. In January 1994, Takeshi Uchiyamada was appointed to head G21. He would later become chief engineer for the Prius. His first step was to set up a team with 10 engineers specializing in areas such as engine, chassis, body design and production technology. The activities of the G21 team were known only to a few and carried out on an executive office floor completely separate from the rest of the company. Rumours spread throughout the company about “a mysterious team working on a mysterious project”.

Toyota was aiming to create not one and a half times, but double the fuel efficient car. In 1994, Akihiro Wada became executive vice president for Research and Development and chief executive for the G21 Project. Uchiyamada had originally targeted an increase in fuel efficiency one and a half times better using direct fuel injection and a new transmission. Wada realised that this goal, ambitious

AMBITIOUS PROJECT

as it might seem, was not enough.

What was needed was double the fuel efficiency, and he insisted that the project would be cancelled immediately if this could not be achieved. For Uchiyamada and his team, that meant creating a totally new kind of technology — the hybrid power system.

Of course, it wasn’t called a hybrid back then. When the concept car debuted in the fall of 1995, it was powered by something known as the Toyota Energy Management System — a dual motor system with an electric motor assisting a gasoline engine. Searching for a name for this car, Toyota decided on “Prius” which is the Latin adverb for “prior” (coming before), an appropriate choice since this was well before the environmental movement went mainstream. The technology was there. The design and engineering concepts were ready. The next step was manufacturing and marketing. The team set a target date just two years ahead—1997. The story was about to begin.

In 1997 Toyota introduced the world’s first mass produced hybrid vehicle — the Prius — offering much better fuel economy than any other vehicle powered by a gasoline engine. Prius surprised the world. The idea of the Prius has caught on since then. In 2008, there were a million2 new Priuses on the road. By 2013, it was three million, indicating that the new eco-technology had gone mainstream and was no longer just something for a few environmentally conscious progressives — but rather the best choice for just about everyone.

Hybrids are clearly becoming more and more popular. By July 2015, Toyota had sold more than 8 million 2 hybrids globally — which meant about 58 million tonnes less CO2 in the atmosphere .

Whether it is North America, Europe and Asia, a new lifestyle is evolving globally and more people are signing on to buy the Prius hybrid.

H E A LT H Y C H O I C E

McDonald’s welcomes OWA to try out its new premium salad range MUSCAT: As part of McDonald’s commitment to provide a variety of healthy food choices that cater to its customers’ different lifestyle needs, McDonald’s Oman (Al Daud Restaurants) delightedly welcomed into its restaurant the members of the Omani Women’s Association at Seeb to experience the brand’s new premium salad range.

McDonald’s special day with the Omani Women Association (OWA) at Seeb demonstrates its support to the group on their ongoing drive in promoting their rights, empowerment and effort in creating greater awareness on cultural, social, religious and health aspects, says a press release.

Chadi Zakharia, director of Operations at McDonald’s Oman took the lead in welcoming their guests, giving them the opportunity to tour around the kitchen and demonstrated the restaurant’s standard operational procedures, stringent food safety processes from sourcing to preparation; quality, hygiene and sanitation standards. OWA guests had this rare opportunity to see for themselves how the food is prepared to the best quality standards at the same time to try out the brand’s new premium salad range.

Ibtisam Hamdan Mohamed Al Farsi, member of OWA Seeb, said: “It’s a great opportunity for us to see how McDonald’s

food is prepared in the kitchen.

We gain greater understanding, knowledge and confidence on the quality of food that we eat at McDonald’s. The new premium salad range of McDonald’s is such a special treat.

“I’m a salads lover myself. Indeed it’s great to know that McDonald’s now has salads options that are perfect to my taste.”

Salad range McDonald’s new premium salad range, namely, Quinoa Fattoush, Feta Garden, and Chicken Caesar are the brand’s new innovations that deliver impeccably on its promise to offer delightful food prepared to the best standards of food quality and safety all the way from the farm to the customer’s tray.

McDonald’s Quinoa Fattoush is a healthy salad bursting at the seams with quinoa - the nutritious super food that closely resembles couscous, plus tomato cherry, onions and Rocca leaves.

The Chicken Caesar salad is delicious with tender grilled chicken strips served on a bed of romaine lettuce and crumbly croutons with a sprinkling of shredded Parmesan. The Feta Garden is packed with baby spinach, feta cheese cubes, yellow pepper and cucumber. Now a part of McDonald’s permanent menu, the new premium salad range delivers the brand’s promise of promoting healthy food options.

HOME TRENDS

Land Rover supports research Home Centre’s new catalogue expedition ‘No Man’s Land’ features inspiring new designs DUBAI: Land Rover is supporting a Royal Geographical Society expedition (with the Institute of British Geographers) which will investigate the geographical and political effects of No Man’s Lands on modern day society, while charting their origins and development throughout history.

The ‘No Man’s Land’ expedition team, led by Dr Alasdair Pinkerton, of Royal Holloway University of London and Dr Noam Leshem of Durham University, will travel from the hamlet of Nomansland in Devon, England, to Bir Tawil, says a press release.

The six-week research expedition is funded through a Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) Thesiger-Oman Fellowship and supported by Land Rover with the loan of a Discovery Sport. With an aim to build on the current research and understanding of No Man’s Lands throughout history, its research findings will also be used to develop educational materials for secondary level geography students in the UK (aged 15+).

‘No Man’s Lands’ have existed within the English language for over 1,000 years to describe pieces of unowned or abandoned land, the cracks between uncertain international borders, or the disputed ground between oppos-

ing militaries. Whilst many associate the term with war or think that No Man’s Lands are a thing of the past, Dr Pinkerton and Dr Leshem will use academic fieldwork to link together multiple No Man’s Lands through the expedition, while documenting the lives of those still affected by these challenging spaces.

A Discovery Sport support vehicle will play a crucial role in the expedition. The highly capable and versatile premium compact SUV will be essential in negotiating the challenging route across 19 countries. Its class-leading allterrain credentials will be put to the test as it transports the team and their equipment across epic landscapes in extreme conditions, covering thousands of miles of varied, inhospitable terrain.

Alasdair Pinkerton, expedi-

tion co-leader said: “This is an extraordinarily ambitious project that goes way beyond standard academic research – 6,000 miles, 19 countries, a demilitarised Buffer Zone and the world’s last truly unclaimed territory, all in little under six weeks.

“The support and expeditionary expertise of the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG) has been absolutely crucial in the formulation of the expedition, while the training and the Discovery Sport provided by Land Rover will allow us to negotiate some of the most challenging environments and terrains anywhere in Europe and North Africa.”

Mark Cameron, Jaguar Land Rover Global Experiential Marketing director said: “Land Rover is proud to be supporting this ambitious expedition.”

MUSCAT: Home Centre, the region’s leading name in home retail, has announced the launch of its much-anticipated 2015/16 annual catalogue. Featuring an array of new designs and concepts for home decoration, the catalogue fulfils Home Centre’s promise of inspiring beautiful homes for the last 20 years.

Every year, the annual catalogue offers customers consistent newness and a guarantee of quality products at a great value. Yet again, this edition will reflect the year’s global trends in home furnishing, customised and presented beauti-

fully for regional shoppers, says a press release.

195 styles The catalogue features more than 195 new inspirational styles. A distinct focus this year is on ‘The Collections’ – an exclusive range of discerning furniture that can weave harmony into homes with a cohesive range of furniture for the living, dining and bedroom.

Creating a strong sense of design synergy for the entire home will be simple with The Collections, as beautiful details and colour palettes find resonance from one

room to the next. The Collections – Juliette, Helen and Prestige – will offer customers affordable luxury for the entire home.

The catalogue is designed to appeal to Home Centre’s diverse customer base. While there are classic elegant options to choose from, those looking for glamorous, modern designs in store will not be disappointed either.

In addition to furniture, customers will also get a glimpse of Home Centre’s wide assortment of lighting and home accessories, as well as bath, bedroom and kitchen essentials in this edition.

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baituna home finance promotion a great hit The attractive offer is available for purchasing ready homes and apartments across Oman with add-on benefits, including free home contents insurance

MUSCAT: The first-of-its-kind home finance offer launched by Bank Muscat granting customers the option to buy their dream home and start repayment in 2016 has evoked big response across the Sultanate.

The limited period offer was launched by the flagship financial services provider in step with its ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and commitment to partnership in facilitating a home for every family. The attractive offer is available for purchasing ready homes and apartments

across Oman with add-on benefits, including free home contents insurance worth OMR13,500, says a press release. baituna facilitates access to prime residential projects in Oman as all leading property developers are associated with the bank. The attractive features of baituna home finance include low interest rates with maximum loan tenure up to 25 years for Omani customers. The low interest rate is a big attraction to avail the best home finance deals in the Sultan-

ate. Citizens and residents can obtain easy and convenient credit approval across the bank’s 140 branches and dedicated baituna centres in the Sultanate.

Bank Muscat reckons the real estate sector as a major component of the national economy and is committed to extending all possible support to achieve the objective of a ‘home for every family’, especially youth. baituna home finance is tailored to offer citizens and residents easy access to mortgage finance, thereby contributing to revitalisation of the real estate sector and enhancing its role in the national economy. The attractive home finance offer with repayment holiday is positioned to give a boost to the real estate sector and benefit citizens across Oman to fulfil their dream homes. baituna offers convenient mortgage plans to suit everyone’s needs with simplified documentation, flexible repayment options, insurance coverage and

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processing across the bank’s extensive network of branches and dedicated centres.

Omani and GCC nationals can avail baituna finance for purchase and construction of new homes as well as land for residential use while expatriate customers can avail home finance for properties in integrated tourism complex.

The bank also undertakes refinancing of home finance.

The baituna tie-up with leading property developers include The Wave Muscat, Al Argan, Bader Al Qurum, Bader Al Hamra, The Links, Dar Al Zain, Zain Properties, Yassmin Complex Taameer, Muscat Hills, National Mass, Vintage Modern, Evening Homes, Omani Homes, Palm Residence, Bait Yousif, Arabian Properties, Al Nujoom, Al Firdous and Amlak with the list of tie-ups continuously growing. Offering finance for a gamut of requirements, Bank Muscat fulfils the aspirational needs of people.

INDIAN ENVOY INAUGURATES ISC SALALAH HALL Indra Mani Pandey, Ambassador of India, opening the renovated second multipurpose hall of the Indian Social Club Salalah in the presence of Manpreet Singh, chairman, and management committee members, conveners, co-conveners of the linguistic wings of the club. — Supplied image

EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS

Bollywood singer Jaspinder alizz selects Wolters Kluwer Narula to judge ‘Muscat Icon’ Financial Services solution

MUSCAT: Dr. Jaspinder Narula, a celebrated Bollywood playback singer, will be the judge (Hindi Category), for the upcoming mega event ‘Muscat Icon – Minara Singing Little Gems- 2015’.

Jaspinder shot to fame after her super chartbuster Pyar to hona hi tha from the 1998 film Pyar To Hona Hi Tha for which she won the 1999 Filmfare Best Female Playback Singer Award and Star Screen Best Female Playback Singer Award, Her other notable films include Judai, Virasat, Fiza, Aa Ab Laut Chalein, Pinjar, Soldier, Dulhe Raja, Major Sahib, Mission Kashmir, Mohabbatein, Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani and Bunty Aur Babli.

In 2008, she again won the title of India’s Best Live Performer in NDTV Imagine’s celebrity singers reality show, Dhoom Macha De. She is the 1st Indian singer who introduced the Sufi chartbuster Dama Dam Mast Kalandar to Indian audiences at a young age of 8 at the inaugural function of Doordarshan Kendra, Jalandhar, says a press release.

Jaspinder was born in a family of musician and singer. Her father S. Kesar Singh Narula is a renowned music composer of Punjabi film and music industry and her mother Mohini Narula a noted Punjabi folk singer. She started learning music from her parents. Apart from her father, she also learnt from Gurus like Pt Sita Ram ji and Padam Shri Ghulam Sadiq Khan Sahib of Rampur Sahaswan Gharana at Delhi.

As a child artist she was the winner of ‘Shankar’s Singing Award’.

Initially Jaspinder Narula kept away from film singing to complete her studies and meanwhile

specialised in singing Shabads, Bhajans, Bhents and Sufiana compositions. After her Bachelors, Masters and MPhil degrees in music, she completed her Ph.D. in Hindustani classical music from Delhi University in 2008.

She started her career at a very early age and it was in 1974 when her first tour abroad started with UK and Canada. And thereon she travelled across the globe delighting billions of music lovers with her melodious voice and heart rendering numbers.

Her first Super 7 record of devotional songs was released by HMV (His Maters Voice) in 1975.

She not only excelled in Bollywood singing but also commands completely on Sufi, devotional, Punjabi folk, classical and Western music. She has countless number of songs in all genres of music recorded in almost all languages of India and rest of the world. Noted music composer Kalyanji Bhai and his son and music director, Viju Shah, gave her initial break in films like Master, Aar Ya Paar and Bade Miyan Chhote Miyan.

She has also won numerous national, international and state level awards and honours. To name a few: Legislative Assembly Alberta, Canada, Silver Nightingale of Uzbekistan and many other distinguished institutions of USA, UK, Canada, South Africa, North Africa, East Africa, Mauritius, New Zealand, Holland, Belgium, Norway, Bangladesh, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Surinam etc. Apart from singing a large number songs of successful Bollywood films, she has lent her voice to record numerous

music albums, Non-Filmi Ghazals and devotional numbers.

Arabic category judge Omani musician composer Kamil Al Balushi will be the judge for Arabic category. Kamil Al Balushi is a versatile singer, composer and conductor of music. He has taken extensive training in music in Egypt. At present he is working and conducting music at Royal Sultan’s Band. He has been encouraging young Omanis to pick up music; he has been also training and grooming them. He also owns a recording studio.

English category judge Sarthak Swami will be the judge for English category. Born in Mumbai, but raised in Muscat, this eccentric and talented young man has lived in both worlds. He has finished his education from The American International School of Muscat, A.B.A, and Dhahran Academy.

He has completed his Bachelors in Mass Media and a Post Graduation in the field of Advertising.

But music has always been and will always be his one true love.

He has now completed a Diploma in Vocals from the True School of Music also. And he’s now one of the current faculty members there as well.

He has been playing gigs and private parties all over India, from the Mahindra blues fest, to Chino’s in Goa. He has a wide range of techniques and experience under his belt at this young age. He believes – “Music has to live and breathe inside every single person across this world. It’s a way to truly understand one another”.

MUSCAT: alizz Islamic bank has signed up to use Wolters Kluwer Financial Services’ OneSumX solution for Asset and Liability Management (ALM). The bank will use the solution for the effective monitoring of liquidity, sensitivity analysis, income analysis, income and earnings simulation and fund transfer pricing (FTP), says a press release.

OneSumX provides an ecosystem of complementary and comprehensive solutions and services to manage the intersection of governance, finance, risk and compliance, increasing organisational profitability, efficiency and growth. The ALM solution is based on Wolters Kluwer Financial Services’ integrated data architecture, providing an enterprise-wide risk solution. The solution enables balance sheet modelling, risk measurement, risk management and regulatory compliance. alizz Islamic bank, which was founded in November 2012 to provide retail and corporate finance, will use Advanced Financial Solutions for the implementation of the Wolters Kluwer Financial Services offering. A subsidiary of Midis Group, Advanced Financial Solutions specialises in providing software solutions and consulting TRAINING

CBFS launches certification course in branch management MUSCAT: The College of Banking and Financial Studies (CBFS) has launched a certification training course in branch management for retail banking branch managers (BM) and assistant branch managers (ABM) of the banking industry in Oman.

The first open enrolment batch of this course commenced on September 9 and is being attended by 25 participants from 5 commercial banks.

In addition, few other banks have already run/are currently running the course in-house for their BMs and ABMs.

services for financial institutions in the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey.

“We spoke to several vendors and chose the Wolters Kluwer

Financial solution, based on its ability to provide a suitably robust ALM framework for the bank,” said Ghalib Al Busaidi, chief financial officer of alizz Islamic bank.

“Furthermore, the reputation of Advanced Financial Solutions has been very good as the firm has successfully implemented several solutions for financial institutions over the years.

“We look forward to working with them to implement the OneSumX solution for ALM. This is an important investment for us and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring an effective and strong risk management culture.”

The solution supports several approaches of FTP and, going forward, the bank intends to extend the solution to generate Regulatory Returns on Liquidity Coverage Ratio and Net Stable Funding Ratio.

“OneSumX ALM is contractcentric solution that builds up the balance sheet based on details of contracts from which various risk metrics can be calculated,” said Kris Van Bavel, vice president, Sales, for EMEA at Wolters Kluwer Financial Services. “We are, of course, delighted to have been chosen by this leading Islamic bank to provide our ALM solution.”

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FRANCHISE STORE

Ooredoo launches store in Musannah

Jashn-e-Baharan, a grand musical evening, is being organised by MKP in association with Majan Events

MUSCAT: Popular Bollywood playback singer Javed Ali and his team will rock the Qurum Amphitheatre in their live performance at Jashn-e-Baharan concert starting at 6.30pm on Friday, October 9.

Javed Ali, the most versatile Bollywood playback singer will be accompanied by Manisha Jambotkar, leading female singer, Anand, a multi talented Bollywood artiste, and highly professional musicians.

‘Jashn-e-Bahaara’, a grand musical evening, is organised by MKP in association with Majan Events.

Besides his most popular Bollywood hits, Javed Ali will be ren-

dering Sufi songs, Killimanjero... a Tamil song he has sung in Rajnikanth’s blockbuster Robot and also an Arabic number specially prepared for Oman audience, which will also be treated to a special raffle by Renna mobile for exciting prizes at the venue.

Sharaf DG, Rainbow Milk products, Renna Mobile, Voltamp Energy, Mother’s Recipe, Al Ansari Group of Companies, Mustafa Sultan Exchange, Swiss Arabia (SAPIL), Al Rawahy International, Ramniklal B. Kothary & Co, A.A.K. Enterprises, and well wishers are going to be the sponsors of this show. Technical support from leading sound and light experts

Talentz Enterprises and official airline Jet Airways are the power banks of the show. Online partner esaver.co have been accepting online booking of show tickets with assured door delivery thereof.

“We are indeed proud to get a versatile singer Javed Ali for the first time to Oman. He has been travelling the world over with great music wizards like A. R. Rahman. Javed Ali has agreed to sing an Arabic song specially for this show and we are really grateful to him,” said Dipti Raval, a leading organiser and producer of MKP/ Majan Events.

“Javed Ali and his 12-member team will surely create a turbulence with live music and dances choreographed by Oman’s leading professional choreographers with their trained dancers. We have

LUXURY ON THE WHEELS

maintained our trend of promoting local talent even in this show and insisted on dances with local dancers and choreographers in this show,” she added.

“Show tickets are available with Puranmal Restaurant (CBD), Lulu Hypermarket (Darsait) Al Taqdeer Fashions (Ruwi), Majan Gift shop (Al Falaj Hotel), Fashion World-Shop # 19 in Dhofar Building, Sharaf DG in MGM. Besides, tickets can be booked online on esaver.co. and will be delivered at your doorsteps.”

Majan Events have organized more than 1,000 shows in Oman.

“We have organised cultural, regional, corporate, sports and social programmes in the last three decades in Oman” said Sheikh Kaleem, managing director, Majan Events of Kaleem Enterprises.

MUSCAT: Ooredoo has launched its first franchise store in Musannah, South Al Batinah, with its long-term partner and store operator Enhance, a WJ Towell company.

The store provides Ooredoo’s inspiring range of products and services and vibrant branding to customers and local communities in the area. The new branch, Ooredoo’s 10th concept store, was inaugurated by Sheikh Ghusan bin Zaher Al Abri, Deputy Wali of Al Musannah, accompanied by members of Ooredoo’s management team, says a press release.

“Our concept stores are an important part of our strategy to reach even communities throughout the Sultanate, to bring us closer to our customers in all regions,” said Feras Al

Shaikh, director of Consumer Sales at Ooredoo.

“Providing an unforgettable customer experience is at the heart of everything we do; so to open a store in a new area where we have a growing number of customers is very important.

“This is an important part of connecting with our customers and inspiring people through our dynamic brand.”

Ahmad Abbas, general manager of Retail Solutions at Enhance Oman, commented, “The opening of our store in Musannah marks our first in the region and will undoubtedly add great value to the local commercial experience, as the people of Musannah can now explore Ooredoo’s products and services without having to travel outside of the wilayat.”

SPECIALIST TRUCK

All-new Mercedes Zetros: Versatile power for any task

‘Festival of Joy’ incentives make Toyota Aurion more attractive MUSCAT: Toyota Aurion has made an impressive mark on customers in search of well-balanced luxury and performance. The Aurion is packed with a host of superior features that promote an enhanced driving experience while making an impactful impression with its refined looks.

“This impact is even greater, considering the benefits that accompany every Aurion,” points out an enthusiast.

In fact, till November 12, the 2016YM and 2015YM Aurion of 2015 production is available with ‘Festival of Joy’ benefits that include a service package of three years/30,000km (whichever is earlier) covering three services at 10,000km service interval for petrol models based on normal operating conditions. Also available is comprehensive one year insurance (Oman only) that would be given to the extent applicable for private vehicles. In addition to the above, customers also get registration for the first year. These benefits are applicable for all purchases except government organisations and ministries.

“My joy truly knew no bounds and I went ahead and made the best of the offer!” said the customer with a smile as he stepped into his shiny, new Aurion. A refined masterpiece, the Aurion is made with an emphasis on luxury and quality, creating a unique classy look. The cabin of the Aurion is spacious and the dashboard has an exclusive horizontal T-Shaped design, which significantly enhances

the feeling of prestige. The ‘Quieter Cabin Experience’ is due to the reduced road and wind noise. The feeling of quality is enhanced with leather stitching, while the curved woodgrain and silver accents create a sense of functional beauty.

The ECO-meter allows drivers to recognise when they are driving in a fuel efficient and economical manner. Chrome accents on the air conditioning vents and audio controls complete the sense of prestige that extends even to the smallest of details, including the audio switches on the steering wheel and a two-seat position memory system.

Available with 6-speed Multimode automatic transmission mated to a 3.5 L,V6 engine, with Dual VVT-I, the Aurion surges forward on an awesome 268 hp. Thin, long headlamps on either side of the impressive front grille and elevated hood lend it a majestic and powerful presence. The side of the Aurion is accented for a stronger appearance through a flared bottom section and an accented doorcross section.

Advanced luxury The Aurion’s 17-inch wheels enhance the character of the vehicle and provide a feeling of advanced luxury. The rear of the Aurion blends into the rear combination lamps for a greater emphasis on width.

The bumper corners protrude outwardscreating a ground-hugging stance. Cutting-edge aerodynamic technology ensures that the

Aurion experiences straight-line stability, while the column mounted electric power steering mechanism allows an optimum level of vehicle control.

The Aurion’s VSC (vehicle stability control) plus TRC (traction control) technologies give it a ‘firmer footing’ while the HID (high intensity discharge headlamps) help to see better in the dark, by improving nighttime visibility.

The Aurion offers utility features such as front and rear parking systems, which alert the driver when approaching obstacles.

The Aurion also has an audio system with a 7-inch navigation system, a USB/AUX terminal for external audio devices, advanced bluetooth communication compatibility, smart entry and push button start, dual-zone air conditioning and a back window power sunshade.

All specifications listed above are standard Toyota equipment.

Safety kit (fire extinguisher, warning triangle, tyre pressure gauge & first aid kit) is a dealer installed non Toyota item provided on Toyota models as standard equipment. The vehicle specifications may change without prior notice. Pictures and colours may differ from actual specifications of the vehicles.

In Oman, the nationwide parts and service network of Saud Bahwan Automotive supports Toyota’s outstanding product quality. No wonder then that today, Toyota is one of the most trusted and well-known brands.

MUSCAT: For more than 100 years, the name Mercedes-Benz has been associated with specialist trucks of the highest quality. Proud bearer of the star, Mercedes-Benz knows that history well and continues to set industry standards with trucks that are purpose built to conquer, on and off-road. It’s no surprise that trucks designed under the star have conjured strong demand for a truck with unsurpassed reliability, durability and sustainability.

The answer to that demand is the all new Zetros 3643 AS 6x6 Truck, says a press release.

Bearing the bonnet-type highmobility design, the Zetros is an adaptable and flexible truck capable of meeting any challenge with the ability to operate on all terrains. It is the culmination of 11 decades of truck expertise combined with decades of off-road know-how, chassis-powertrain technology, and the high-quality production the world expects from Mercedes-Benz.

Tailor-made for ME The Zetros is more than your average off-road specialist, made to master the harsh terrain of the Middle-East and the GCC. Wedding outstanding traction with supreme mobility, the Zetros is capable of coping with extreme weather conditions. The all-new truck is perfectly equipped for operations in the most challenging environments, carrying out extreme operations and mastering any setting, at any time. A quick look under the hood reveals why.

The Zetros is equipped with a two-stage transfer gearbox with an off-road gear ration of 1:1.69, increasing tractive power under the most extreme conditions by almost 70%. Its amazing tractive power is supplemented by permanent four-wheel drive, a reinforced frame, fording depth of up to 1.19 meters, and multiple locks.

Developed by Daimler in Wörth, the Zetros is a monster on the roads and capable of transporting raw materials to regions only accessible by air.

An off-road giant needs a reliable and economical engine, like the Zetros’s compact six-cylinder in-line engine with an exhaustgas turbo charger and intercooler.

The engine is exceptionally well-

prepared to handle demanding operations over difficult terrain.

Its durable construction with low-fuel consumption, perfectly tuned gears/axle combination and the Telligent engine system provides the Zetros with an efficient, diesel-saving powertrain that can survive anything the Middle-East throws at it. In addition to this, the highest ergonomic standards and outstanding comfort meet in the Zetros to keep operators cool and calm during hot conditions. It comes with a generously proportioned cockpit, offering plenty of legroom and an optimum layout of control elements and displays.

Customer needs The Zetros was designed with the end user in mind, built to accommodate tough work done in even tougher terrains. It was constructed expressly for attachments and mounted bodies, making it more than capable of being utilised by firefighters, the military, and in major construction sites. It won’t let you down no matter the circumstance, given its strong service network, easy to repair technology, and prompt spare availability.

The vehicles versatility should come as no surprise, after all, it was purpose built by Daimler engineers to transport goods, hazardous materials or people, and for rescue missions, disaster intervention, expeditions and agriculture use. It is an absolutely state-of-the-art truck, staying true to the Mercedes-Benz penchant for innovation.

Safety ownership The good all-round visibility of the driving seat behind the front axle supplements the special tuning of the Zetros chassis to provide an ideal place to work when off road. Fewer bumps, jolts and less pitching increase passenger comfort and take the strain off both driver and co-driver. Getting in and out is easier and safer and the lack of an engine tunnel allows more freedom of movement.

Total cost of ownership Whether boosting a business or expanding a fleet, purchasing a Mercedes-Benz Zetros is a reliable and safe investment. Their German engines are powerful,

durable and fuel-efficient and the vehicles, thanks to their high quality, have a very high residual value if ever re-sold.

A comprehensive network for excellent service Understanding the need for sustainable trucks, Mercedes-Benz has done everything it can to make the Zetros as sturdy as a tank. Should a repair be needed, thanks to its large regional spare parts warehouse with over 72,000 different spare parts in stock, original parts can be easily and quickly replaced. The MercedesBenz network of authorised dealers guarantees outstanding after-sales services, of which its regular fleet service weeks are a popular feature. The MercedesBenz Regional Training Centre guarantees all technicians are kept fully up-to-date with the latest advances in repair and maintenance techniques. All workshops are regularly monitored by the Mercedes-Benz Specialised Technical Department Team.

Testing Every Zetros is developed, built and tested with daily use in mind.

Long and tough reliability test trials are conducted under extreme conditions, identifying weaknesses and rigorously eliminating anything not durable enough to withstand the extreme demands of the Middle East.

Special climate and adverse conditions testing takes place over several months and trucks must also complete long test stretches on rough roads, motorways, gravelled and muddy tracks. The engines of the Zetros are required to pass endurance trials that equate to over 3.6 million kilometres. Propshaft tests involve 58 different combinations of engine speeds, torques and bending angles. Extremely rigorous customer trials constitute one of the most important Mercedes-Benz tests.

Three words sum up MercedesBenz’s range of commercial vehicles: durable, reliable, and strong.

They are trucks you can trust, fusing years of experience with ingenuity and taking innovation to new heights, delivering exactly what the world has come to expect from a Mercedes-Benz.

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Oman aiming to field strong team at Junior Asia Cup hockey tourney The Sultanate’s hockey body is leaving no stone unturned in their attempt to give all the support needed to Oliver Kurtz-coached Omani squad as they gear up for the November 15-22 Junior Asia Cup

A SESHAGIRI RAO

raoas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: With an eye on the future development of hockey in the Sultanate, the Oman Hockey Association (OHA) is aiming to prepare a strong team for the forthcoming Men’s Junior Asia Cup to be organised in Malaysia.

The governing body of Oman hockey is leaving no stone unturned in an attempt to give all the support needed to Oliver Kurtzcoached squad as they get ready for the Asian challenge.

According to OHA General Secretary Mohammed Ridha Al Lawati, the young Omanis have just returned from a camp in Europe and they will continue with rigorous training, both at home and abroad, and play some tough matches in the run-up to November 14-22 Junior Asia Cup. “We are taking the Junior Asia Cup very seriously,” said Mohammed Ridha.

“We have to be realistic of our chances. No doubt about that ... because we will be competing against the big teams of Asia.

“But we don’t want our boys to go to Malaysia just to participate but to compete and compete well.”

“We are focussing on this team because we know they are the future of Oman hockey. That’s the reason we are giving them all the support they need. If they manage to achieve good results in Malaysia that will augur well for the future of our sport,” he added.

The fact that OHA has sent ‘this Oman junior team’ for the first time to train in Europe shows how serious the association is about the development of the junior team.

“The team has just returned from a three-week training camp in Europe. They worked hard and shaped up well under coach Oliver (Kurtz). It has been a very tough tour for them as they trained both in Germany and the Netherlands and also played some very tough matches against strong local teams there,” the OHA official added.

“But the best part is the team has gained a lot from the European trip and we believe they are a better side now.”

Mohammed Ridha stressed there will be no let up from the rigorous training even though the team have just returned from the Europe.

“The team will soon gather again and start training. They will be

CLICKED DURING TRAINING: Oman hockey team with Oman Hockey Association officials and coach Oliver Kurtz pose during a training camp in Europe recently. – Supplied photo

Oman to host FIH World League round, AHF offers U-18 Asia Cup Sports Reporter MUSCAT: The Sultanate’s status as the leading hockey nation of the Gulf region and the Oman Hockey Association’s ability to organise successful championships with the support of the Ministry of Sports Affairs has been recognised by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) and the Asian Hockey Federation (AFH), with both bodies awarding the hosting rights of two prestigious international tournaments to Oman.

The international federation, in fact, not only invited the OHA to field a team in the FIH Hockey World League for the third successive time but also asked it to host a first round event here in Muscat.

“We are very delighted with the FIH’s decision. It shows our efforts have been recognised by the international body, especially after we have successfully organised a similar first round event in September 2014 when the FIH chief Leandro Negre visited Muscat and was impressed by the way we have conducted the tournament,” OHA General Secretary Mohammed Ridha Al Lawati said.

“We will be hosting the first round matches here from

training right up to the start of the tournament in Malaysia,” he said.

Japan, China friendlies Meanwhile, OHA Technical Director Mohie Saad Al Zaghlool said Oliver Kurtz’s boys will undergo a training camp at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex.

“The team will be training here from October 22 to November 7,”

It shows Oman’s status as leading hockey nation in the Gulf has been recognised by the FIH and AHF body, especially after we have successfully organised similar events in the past few years Mohammed Ridha OHA general secretary

October 1 to 7 in 2016. As in the past we want to host a successful tournament. The initial planning has already begun and our various committees will soon start working. We will soon be making all the arrange-

he said. “The team will head for Malaysia right after the domestic camp on November 8. The team will be reaching there almost a week ahead of the Junior Asia Cup to get acclimatised to the conditions and to have further training,” he added.

Mohie also informed of Oman’s plans to play two friendlies before the start of the tournament. “Our

ments needed to host the World League matches,” he said.

Hockey World League, which also serves as the qualifying event for the FIH World Cup, is an ambitious programme launched by the FIH to involve

team will be playing friendlies against Japan and China, both of them are not in Oman’s group,” he said.

Oman will play their first friendly against Japan on November 9 and China on November 11.

The eighth edition of the Junior Asia Cup, which also serves as the qualifying event for the 2016 FIH Junior World Cup, will take place at the Wisma Belia Hockey Sta-

all the hockey-playing nations in the process. The first WL took place from 2012 to 2-13 while the 2014-15 league is scheduled to conclude in India later this year.

The third edition of the World League will run from 2016 to

dium in Kuantan, Malaysia, from November 14 to 22, where Oman are placed in Pool B along with South Korea, Pakistan, Oman and Bangladesh. Defending champions and hosts Malaysia are in Pool A with India, Japan and China.

Fixtures Nov 14: Korea vs Oman, Pakistan vs Bangladesh, Malaysia vs China, India vs Japan.

2017 with several matches within the different rounds to be played across the globe before culminating in the finals. The eight-team finals will be played in India in December 2017.

Oman team took part in both editions when they managed to reach the second round.

Mohammed Ridha also revealed AHF in a letter addressed to the OHA General Secretary offering the hosting rights of the Under-18 Asia Cup to Oman.

“We have just received a letter from the Asian Hockey Federation. They want us to host the 2016 under-18 championship,” he said.

“The fact these two tournaments have been awarded to Oman shows that both FIH and AHF have recognised our efforts and they believe in our organisational abilities,” he added.

The OHA official said: “Now we have to work out suitable dates for the championship after getting in touch with all the concerned authorities. Then we will get back to the AHF to finalise everything.”

Besides Oman, the other teams who will be taking part in the Under-18 Asia Cup are Bangladesh, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Pakistan and Malaysia.

Nov 15: Oman vs Bangladesh, Pakistan vs Korea, China vs Japan, Malaysia vs India.

Nov 17: Korea vs Bangladesh, Oman vs Pakistan, India vs China, Japan vs Malaysia.

Nov 19: Quarterfinals.

Nov 21: classification matches and semifinals.

Nov 22: classification matches and the final.

ASIAN EVENT

Asia’s strongmen, women arrive for Bench Press Championships Sports Reporter

GEARING REPORT: Officials inspect the arrangements at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, the venue of the Asian Bench Press Championships. – Supplied photo

MUSCAT: Asia’s top strongmen and women arrived in Muscat as Oman is all set to host the Asian Bench Press Championships at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex from Thursday.

The curtains will go up on the Asian championships, which will see the best men and women athletes of the continent competing for top honours in various categories, with Khalfan bin Saleh Al Naabi, Advisor at the Ministry of Sports Affairs, officially declaring the championships open dur-

ing the inaugural ceremony.

According to Oman Committee for Powerlifting, which is chaired

by Said Al Ghabshi, the opening ceremony will be brief and beautiful and will be attended by several dignitaries, including Asian Powerlifting Federation President Farshid Soltani.

The real action will begin on Friday with the women’s competitions while the men will get started with their events on Saturday.

More than 200 delegates from as many as 12 nations have arrived in the capital to take part in the championships, which the Oman

Committee for Powerlifting, with the support of Ministry of Sports Affairs, is hoping to make a great success. Besides the hosts, the other participating nations are Japan, Iran, India, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Mongolia, Lebanon, the UAE and Kuwait.

The men’s competitions include open, sub-juniors, juniors and masters categories.

The women’s competitions will be held in open, sub-junior, juniors and masters categories.

Some of the athletes who will be representing the Sultanate in the open category are Abdulmajeed Al

Battashi (-59kg), Yahya Al Kiyumi, Khalifa Al Jamahi (both in -66kg), Aiman Al Hasani (-74kg), Yousuf Al Hasani (- 83kg), Nabil Al Muharrami (-93kg), Aidh Al Mandhari (+120kg), Alkhattab Awlad Thani (-74kg), Nabras Awlad Thani, Mohammed Aulad Thani (both in -83kg), Fahad Al Nabadi (-105kg), Idrees Al Ubaidani (+120kg).

In the junior category, the Omanis who will be in action are Omar Al Zakwani (-74kg), Mazin Al Khusaibi, Omar Al Hasani (both in -83kg), Salim Aulad Thani (-93kg), Musaab Al Farsi (-105kg) and Qais Al Hasni (-120 kg).

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TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

SPORTS

PCB chief optimistic of India cricket series Pakistan and India are mulling playing

We have received BCCI’s reply and they have told us that they will meet on the sidelines of the ICC meeting to talk

two Tests, five oneday internationals and two Twenty20 matches in December and January in the United Arab Emirates

LAHORE: Pakistan’s cricket chief on Tuesday said he was optimistic about a proposed series with arch-rival India as officials from the two countries prepare to meet in Dubai next month.

The current political tension between the two countries, with frequent ceasefire violations on the Line of Control in the disputed Kashmir region, has cast serious doubt over the first full series between the teams since 2007.

Pakistan and India are mulling playing two Tests, five one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches in December and January in the United Arab Emirates.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Shaharyar Khan said he had received a reply to his letter sent to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which promised to hold talks on the sidelines of an International Cricket Council (ICC) meeting in Dubai.

“We have received BCCI’s reply and they have told us that they will meet on the sidelines of the ICC meeting to talk and I have full hopes that the series will happen,” Khan told reporters.

The ICC meeting will be held from October 8-13 in Dubai.

India halted cricket matches with Pakistan in the wake of the 2008 terrorist attacks on Mumbai, which they blamed on militants based in Pakistan.

Pakistan paid a short visit to India to play two Twenty20 matches and three one-day internationals in December 2012 but that failed to revive the bilateral series between the rivals.

Shaharyar Khan PCB Chairman

Pakistan add spinner Asif to ODI squad KARACHI: Pakistan on Wednesday announced they would retain off-spinning allrounder Bilal Asif for the oneday series against Zimbabwe to assess his potential ahead of next month’s series against England. The 30-year-old was not played in the two Twenty20 match series which Pakistan won 2-0 in Harare on Tuesday.

The three one-day internationals start from Thursday.

Chief selector Haroon Rasheed said Test captain Misbah-ul Haq wanted to see Asif in action ahead of the three-Test series against England in United Arab Emirates (UAE). “The request to retain Asif had been made by the team management and in a separate discussion with

However, a breakthrough seemed possible after Pakistan and India signed a Memorandum of Understanding following the revamp of the ICC last year, agreeing to play six series between 2015-2023.

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Misbah, we decided to assess Asif as another spinning option against England,” Rasheed was quoted as saying in a Pakistan Cricket Board release.

“Misbah believes that since the England team contains five left-handed batsmen and because of (Mohammad) Hafeez’s inability to bowl at international level, we were left with no off-spin bowling options in the Test squad,” he added.

Pakistan already have leg-spinner Yasir Shah and left-armer Zulfiqar Babar in their 15-man squad for England Tests which begin in Abu Dhabi on October 13. A spin-heavy Pakistan attack was inevitable after their 3-0 rout of England, then ranked number one, the last time the two sides met in

Khan raised new hopes that the two sides will meet soon following Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s backing of the series.

“It’s a welcome sign that our PM has backed the series and I hope that India will honour the writ-

the UAE three years ago. Offspinner Saeed Ajmal took 24 wickets while left-armer Abdur Rehman nabbed 19 wickets.

Ajmal was not selected for the upcoming series as he continues to struggle with a remodelled bowling action he was forced to devise after being suspended for chucking last year.

“Misbah suggested that since Asif is presently the standout available option in the domestic circuit and should be assessed in case we intend to add him as the 16th member in the Test squad against England.”

The other two Tests will be played in Dubai (October 22-26) and Sharjah (November 1-5), followed by four one-day and three T20 internationals. - AFP

ten commitment,” said Khan, who leaves for India on Wednesday.

“My visit is not related to the series as I am going there to condole Jagmohan Dalmiya’s death,” said Khan, in reference to the BCCI president who died last week. - AFP

C O M M E N TA RY

India versus South Africa will be a series to remember

T

he South Africa tour of India provides the Indian team under Virat Kohli with it’s first serious challenge. True, Mahendra Singh Dhoni is in charge of the limited-overs teams and those games are to be played before the four Test matches start in November but at the back of everybody’s mind is how will the Indian team fare against the top ranked Test team in the world.

The South Africans have generally done well in India as they have the balance to their teams that most touring teams lack. This time though their spin quality is pretty much unknown and that can often be decisive on the Indian pitches as England showed in their excellent Test series win in 2012-13.

However, it’s the limitedovers series that is the focus now and these games become important because it will give the Indian players a good workout and tell us which player is playing well for the Test series to follow. Since the players for the three formats are pretty much the same, early form will be crucial and it will give the players belief and confidence when the sterner Test matches come along.

Virat Kohli for example will need to look at the old weakness of poking outside the off-stump that got him into serious trouble in England and as we saw in Sri Lanka he still is bit tentative in that area especially at the start of his innings. Shikhar Dhawan has announced in emphatic fashion that he is back to full fitness with his century against Bangladesh ‘A’ and that is good news because he is just the kind of batsman that India will need to tackle the late swing of Dale Steyn. Steyn’s outswingers are lethal to the right-handers and if the left-handed Dhawan can take most of the strike it will help India enormously to nullify Steyn’s threat to a great extent and to get off to a good start. Mind

Barcelona hit by injuries, first signs of fan anger

Fan frustration To make matters worse, some supporters began whistling the team when they were trailing Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in Tuesday’s Champions League Group E game, although they were soon silenced as Barcelona stormed back to win 2-1 thanks to late goals from Sergi Roberto and Luis Suarez.

It may seem incredible that

you Steyn is not a one trick bowler and he will certainly have plans for the Indian batsmen.

That’s why the one-day series becomes important for if the Indians can bat well there it will help them combat the South African pace threat in the Test matches. The South Africans also will use the limited-overs games to suss out the Indian spinners especially Ashwin, who is the main dangerman for them in all three formats.

Harbhajan Singh also gets an opportunity to establish early ascendancy over the Proteas batsmen especially the newcomers to Indian conditions.

The South Africans did the smart thing sending an ‘A’ team to play in India a couple of months back and that exposure to the pitches and conditions for some of their players will come in extremely handy in all formats of the game. India generally start favourites when playing at home but this is perhaps the first time in many years that it is hard to say that. It’s a team in transition with tremendous potential so there could be some hiccups but whatever it is it guarantees to be a series to remember. — PMG CHAMPIONS TROPHY

FOOTBALL

BARCELONA: Barcelona coach Luis Enrique woke up on Wednesday confronted with the twin problems of a lengthening injury list and the first signs of discontent this season among the demanding fans at the Nou Camp.

Barca’s Spain playmaker and captain Andres Iniesta was the latest to be sidelined, following the likes of Lionel Messi and Rafinha, picking up a thigh muscle strain that local media suggested could keep him out for more than a month.

Team India generally start favourites when playing at home but this is perhaps the first time in many years that it is hard to say that

some home fans are angry a mere four months after Barcelona secured a treble of Champions League, La Liga and King’s Cup titles but their performances of late have been less than convincing and supporters in Spain are notoriously impatient.

Luis Enrique said Barcelona would remain competitive despite the rash of injuries and hit back at the disgruntled fans, saying the players deserved greater respect.

“We need more support from people when things aren’t going our way,” Luis Enrique told a news conference.

“You can clearly hear the whistles from beside the pitch,” added the former Barca and Spain midfielder.

“If we are not running enough fine but the team made a big effort. There are going to be players out there (due to the injuries) who need confidence not whistling.”

One reason Barca have been

left short is a FIFA ban on registering players for the past two transfer windows.

Barca bought Turkey playmaker Arda Turan and versatile Spain midfielder Aleix Vidal in the close season but as things stand neither can play until January.

Seeking permission Barca have asked permission to register Arda due to Rafinha’s long-term knee injury and local media have reported they are prepared to take their fight to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) if necessary.

Tuesday’s victory lifted Barca to the top of the section on four points from two matches, with Leverkusen second on three points, level with BATE Borisov.

BATE beat AS Roma 3-2 on Tuesday and the Serie A side are bottom on one point.

Barca’s next outing is a La Liga game at Europa League holders Sevilla on Saturday. - Reuters

Windies fail to qualify for Champions Trophy LONDON: The declining fortunes of West Indies cricket hit a new low on Wednesday when the Caribbean team failed to qualify for the 2017 Champions Trophy in England. Restricted to the world’s top eight-ranked sides, the West Indies missed out on the lucrative event after slumping to ninth place on Wednesday’s cut-off date.

Their failure to qualify marks the first time the West Indies will be missing from any of cricket’s three big limited-overs events.

Their spot in the 2017 Champions Trophy was effectively taken

by Bangladesh, whose last appearance at the tournament was in 2006, although they finished seventh in the rankings, just ahead of Pakistan.

Australia, India, South Africa, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Pakistan also qualified, along with the host-nation England. - Reuters

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015

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SPORTS Jose Mourinho on the defensive as Chelsea’s slump continues Terry’s continuing absence a mystery

The Chelsea manager was furious with

PORTO: When Chelsea captain John Terry signed a new one-year contract last May he could hardly have envisaged sitting impotently on the sidelines for half of the new campaign as his beloved club stuttered to one of their worst starts in years.

In the wake of another poor defensive performance by Jose Mourinho’s team while losing 2-1 away to Porto in the Champions League on Tuesday, pundits and supporters alike are questioning how long the manager can continue to ignore a player he once described as ‘untouchable’.

Before meeting the Portugese club where he made his name, Chelsea’s manager was forced to admit that none of his players came into that category now, which he proved by leaving out Player of the Year Eden Hazard, the previously reliable Nemanja Matic, Brazilian midfielder Oscar and Terry.

After playing for every minute of the 38 Premier League games last season, it was the fourth time in five matches that the club captain

his team’s display in drawing 2-2 with Newcastle United in the Premier League last weekend and made significant changes to his line-up, but on this occasion he simply said that two mistakes cost them dear in Portugal

PORTO: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho was left to defend his team selection and his side’s performance after their slump continued on Tuesday with a 2-1 Champions League defeat to Porto.

Maicon got what proved to be the winning goal for Porto at the Estadio do Dragao after a superb Willian free-kick had cancelled out Andre Andre’s opener in a tremendous Group G encounter as Mourinho returned to face his former club.

The Chelsea manager was furious with his team’s display in drawing 2-2 with Newcastle United in the Premier League last weekend and made significant changes to his line-up, but on this occasion he simply said that two mistakes cost them dear in Portugal.

“It was a performance with two ridiculous mistakes. Sometimes you make that kind of mistake and you are not punished but we were,” said Mourinho of Chelsea’s defending of the corner that produced Maicon’s winner and of a later delivery that Danilo headed off the post.

“The second goal is a really bad mistake. We watch dozens of repetitions of Porto taking corners -- I thought we were completely ready for that.

“We had another similar mistake when they hit the post but apart from that it was a balanced performance. The defenders played well, had no problems, but two ridiculous mistakes and we were punished.”

Mourinho, who coached Porto

the substitutes’ bench while Ivanovic seemingly survives error after error, match after match?” asked the Daily Telegraph on Wednesday.

“The reason remains a mystery,” the Daily Mail wrote of Terry’s continued absence.

“Can they be much worse with Terry at the back? He would bring leadership and organisation at least.”

At 34, it is generally accepted that Terry may have lost a little pace, but many observers believe his vast experience would compensate.

Former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand, though he has had his differences with Terry in the past, spoke on Sky Sports of Chelsea “lacking leaders”.

Steve McManaman, once of Liverpool and Real Madrid, who was also covering the game, described him as “the ultimate professional” and said there will be games when he is called upon again.

For many Chelsea fans even this Saturday’s home game against Southampton would not be soon enough. - Reuters

WORRYING TIMES: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho during the Champions League match against Porto. – Reuters

to Champions League glory in 2004, has now gone back to his old club three times with Chelsea and is still to win.

This defeat followed a loss by the same score in late 2004 and a 1-1 draw in 2007, but of more importance is the defeat in the context of Chelsea’s season.

They languish in 15th place in the Premier League and have already suffered five defeats in 11 games in all competitions, winning only four times.

“The players reacted in a positive way,” added Mourinho of their second-half performance, when Diego Costa hit the woodwork and Chelsea had appeals for a penalty for handball against Ivan Marcano waved away.

“They tried to get a result. Diego hit the post, (Branislav) Ivanovic had a chance one metre from goal, there was a last-minute situation, a clear penalty.

“So for me, I don’t think my players deserve me to be critical at them. I’m not going to point the finger at one or another, but two

mistakes cost us the game, a game that I think was fantastic.”

Selection worries Mourinho had dropped Eden Hazard and Nemanja Matic to the bench, while Oscar, Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao — the former Porto striker — were not in the squad at all as Ramires, Willian and John Obi Mikel started.

He insisted that his team remained in a good position to qualify for the last 16, despite slipping to third in Group G behind Porto and Dynamo Kiev, who won 2-0 at Maccabi Tel-Aviv.

However, he admitted recent results were not helping when it comes to naming his starting line-up.

“When the team is not winning, it’s normal that you have to make changes, but games like today are difficult to analyse after,” said Mourinho, who insisted the decision to drop Falcao and Remy completely was “no punishment”.

“Because the result doesn’t mean we played bad. Big mistakes we made twice doesn’t mean we

KEPT ON THE BENCH: Chelsea’s John Terry on the substitutes bench during the Champions League match against Porto on Tuesday. – Reuters

defended bad. It’s easy to make drastic decisions after a disaster, but this is harder.”

Chelsea now have crucial Premier League games at home to Southampton and Aston Villa before going to Kiev next month.

“It’s obviously important for us to get two good results in the Pre-

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Bayern to toast Zagreb mauling at Oktoberfest MUNICH: Pep Guardiola said Bayern Munich will toast their 5-0 rout of Dinamo Zagreb during Wednesday’s annual visit to Oktoberfest after Robert Lewandowski’s phenomenal goal-scoring run continued with a hat-trick.

Bayern romped to the top of Group F in the Champions League as Dinamo’s 45-match unbeaten run was halted in emphatic fashion.

Lewandowski again ran riot at the Allianz Arena as Mario Goetze and Douglas Costa also netted to put Bayern top of their group following their 3-0 win at Olympiakos a fortnight ago before they face Arsenal away in three weeks.

Poland hot-shot Lewandowski has now scored 10 goals in his last three games after netting five in just nine spectacular minutes of Bayern’s 5-1 hammering of Wolfsburg last Tuesday before claiming two more in Saturday’s 3-0 win at Mainz.

Bayern host Borussia Dortmund on Sunday in a top-of-the table clash in the Bundesliga, but their Spanish head coach said they can enjoy a few beers at Munich’s annual bumper beer festival before focusing on their next match.

The Spaniard put Lewandowski’s success down to the width on Bayern’s game from fleet-footed wingers Costa and Kingsley Coman.

“That was a good team performance over the whole 90 minutes,” said Guardiola.

“Six points means we’re on the right path. Tomorrow we’re off to Oktoberfest, after that we’ll have time to think about Dortmund.

has been left sitting among the substitutes. In only the second game of the season he had suffered the ignominy of being taken off at half-time as the defending champions lost 3-0 to Manchester City.

Instead of glamour matches against the likes of Arsenal and Porto, his only appearance recently was in front of barely 10,000 people for a League Cup tie at third-tier Walsall.

For the big games, England international Gary Cahill has been partnered in central defence with the 20 year-old Frenchman Kurt Zouma.

Neither impressed in the two most recent matches against struggling Newcastle United and Porto as Chelsea conceded two goals each time.

They have already lost more matches than in the whole of last season.

With right-back Branislav Ivanovic given the captain’s armband and looking completely out of sorts, critics are wondering how long it can be before the Terry is recalled.

“What must John Terry think as he watches from

TIME TO CELEBRATE: Bayern Munich’s Austrian midfielder David Alaba, Bayern Munich’s Spanish midfielder Thigao Alcantara and Bayern Munich’s Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, right, celebrate a goal against Dinamo Zagreb in Munich. – AFP

“With Douglas Costa and Kingsley Coman our playing style is much better, we can play out wide more and the strikers have more chances.

“Even our counter-attack game was very good.”

Bayern captain Philipp Lahm said the game was over after 30 minutes as the hosts took a 4-0 lead against a woeful Zagreb team, whose defence capitulated in their first defeat since November 2014.

“We played in a very concentrated fashion from the start and when you take your goal chances, the game was over after 30 minutes,” said Lahm.

Lewandowski, the Bundesliga’s top scorer, will be hoping to add to his tally against ex-club Dortmund on Sunday.

“I am happy to get three more goals, but the main thing is that we won 5-0,” said Lewandowski.

“It doesn’t matter how many goals I score as long as we keep picking up points. The whole team played well, which creates opportunities for me.”

But with 10 goals in eight days, Lewandowski is in incredible form. “He’s had an unbelievable week behind him,” admitted Lahm, who joked that he expects at least three goals from Lewandowski per game from now on.

Olympiakos’ shock 3-2 win at bottom side Arsenal means Zagreb drop to third in the group and Dinamo’s coach Zoran Mamic admitted his side was outplayed.

“Bayern have showed how strong they are and we caught them on a very good day, they were better than us in all departments,” said Mamic as his side suffered their heaviest away defeat in Europe. “The difference in quality was huge and we were brutally punished. “They have a lot of good players, they are all fast, and it’s hard to commit tactical fouls against them.

“They deserved to win by that margin.” - AFP

mier League. The players need self-esteem and to feel good to be able to play.

“When everything goes against you it’s difficult to get that feeling.”

Porto coach Julen Lopetegui was delighted with his side’s display but refused to read too much into it before they face Maccabi

Tel-Aviv in a double-header.

“This means three points. It doesn’t mean anything more than that in terms of numbers,” said the Spaniard. “It was a great game against fantastic opponents. I think they played well too. We had 20 shots on goal against a team like Chelsea, which is not easy.” - AFP

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SPORTS

‘CLEAR CONSCIENCE’ M

ichel Platini’s comments came after Swiss prosecutors had accused embattled FIFA president Sepp Blatter of making a ‘disloyal payment’ to Platini in 2011 for work he carried out between 1998 and 2002.

Can you explain exactly what the work undertaken by yourself on FIFA’s behalf from 1998 à 2002 consisted of?

I was employed by FIFA as a special advisor to President Sepp Blatter, working on various matters related to football, such as the international football calendar. It was a full-time job.

How were the payments staggered? Was a first tranche paid before 2011?

Like I explained to the Swiss authorities, I received only part of the agreed salary between 1998 to 2002. This occurred because at the time, FIFA informed me that they would not be able to pay me the total agreed amount. Of course all the moneys received at the time were declared to the pertinent authorities.

How do you explain that a final payment was made to you as late as 2011, nine years after your work was completed ?

Mr Blatter informed me when I started my role as his advisor that it was not initially possible to pay the totality of my salary because of FIFA’s financial situation at that time. I never doubted, however, that the remaining amount owed to me would be paid eventually, so I did not actively pursue it. I even put the matter to the side for a while, before finally requesting that the outstanding balance was paid in 2011.

What is your state of mind today?

I am calm and totally serene since I don’t have reasons to be concerned. I have also received many messages of support from many people around the world who trust me and who hope I can soon restore credibility to the governance of world football.

Have you already paid taxes on these payments in Switzerland?

Yes I declared all moneys received to the Swiss authorities and paid all tax due.

How do you respond to those who say that this last payment came in the year that Blatter was elected for the fourth time, with certain media deducing from this that Blatter paid what he owed you for not standing against him?

Like I have said, the outstanding amount for the work I did was paid when I finally requested it to FIFA. The fact that this payment was made a few months before the FIFA Presidential elections is irrelevant since I never had any plans of becoming a candidate. As a matter of fact, I was extremely happy to be re-elected as UEFA President at the UEFA Congress in Paris in March of 2011.

Are you worried about being suspended by the FIFA Ethics Committee? Have you been contacted by the FIFA Ethics Committee on this subject?

Actually it was I who personally took the initiative to contact the Ethics Committee on Monday to tell them that I was at their full disposal to answer any question or to clarify any situation. I don’t fear a suspension because I have done nothing wrong.

UEFA chief MICHEL PLATINI said in an exclusive interview that he did nothing wrong in accepting a €1.8million ($2million) payment from FIFA and that he was “still determined” to stand for the presidency of the troubled world organisation

Have Swiss authorities opened a criminal investigation against you?

Absolutely not. I was heard last week by the Swiss Authorities only as a person providing information and I cooperated fully.

Have you been hurt by this speculation?

Do you expect other controversies or even attacks given that the election will only happen in February 2016?

I have known for a long time that I would be the target of many unfounded attacks and I am conscious that these attacks will continue until the FIFA elections take place. I have to say, however, that I am disappointed with the speculation in some media, especially the one coming from a French Tabloid that talks about there being “doubt” around me. There is no doubt about my integrity. I have done nothing wrong. That is why I have made myself fully available to cooperate with the relevant bodies and authorities to clarify whatever may be necessary.

Do you think it will be possible one day to re-establish a relationship of trust between football fans and FIFA? I am still determined to present myself as a candidate for the FIFA Presidency so I can introduce the governance reforms that are necessary to restore the order and credibility to world football. I would also like to put football at the heart of FIFA once again and make sure that we continue to develop this beautiful sport around the planet. - AFP

The outstanding amount for the work I did was paid when I finally requested it to FIFA. The fact that this payment was made a few months before the FIFA Presidential elections is irrelevant since I never had any plans of becoming a candidate

MORE THAN JUST A WITNESS

Platini faces fresh questions in FIFA scandal GENEVA: Fresh questions emerged on Thursday over a twomillion dollar payment Michel Platini received from FIFA, as Swiss prosecutors confirmed that the former French star is more than just a witness in their criminal probe.

The powerful head of Europe’s UEFA confederation has insisted he did nothing wrong and will stay in the race to succeed Sepp Blatter at the top of world football’s sleaze-tainted governing body.

A Swiss investigation against Blatter, opened last week, is focused in part on a two million Swiss franc ($2 million) payment he made to Platini in 2011, apparently for consulting work done between 1998 and 2002.

Switzerland’s Attorney General Michael Lauber has said there is evidence that the payment was “disloyal” to FIFA’s interests. Platini, 60, said his compensation was delayed because of financial constraints at FIFA in 1998-2002. The state of the world body’s finances for the period are unclear however.

FIFA’s worst-ever crisis be-

gan in May when US prosecutors charged 14 football officials and sports business executives over involvement in more than $150 million of bribes.

With the scandal steadily widening, uncertainty has mounted over FIFA’s present and future leadership.

Blatter, 79, insists he will stay on until February when a special election is called to choose his successor.

Platini had been the favourite to win that vote, but some believe his implication in the Swiss probe will derail his candidacy.

And, rumours persist that FIFA’s ethics committee is set to open its own inquiry, which could lead to the suspension of both Blatter and Platini, still the two most powerful men in world football.

Cash-strapped FIFA? In an interview on Tuesday, Platini said he worked as special advisor to Blatter from 1998 — when Blatter took charge of FIFA — until 2002. “Mr Blatter informed me

Troubled FIFA and UEFA cancel annual staff match ZURICH: Troubled international football bodies FIFA and UEFA, both with leaders involved with a Swiss criminal investigation, have cancelled their annual staff match.

The friendly game had been scheduled to take place in Nyon, home to European

when I started my role as his advisor that it was not initially possible to pay the totality of my salary because of FIFA’s financial situation at that time,” Platini said.

According to a financial report published in April 2003 and available on FIFA’s website, world foot-

governing body UEFA and its president Michel Platini.

“In a joint decision it was agreed to postpone the UEFA-FIFA challenge 2015, which had been scheduled for Friday, 2 October, until further notice,” a FIFA spokesperson said on Wednesday. - Reuters

ball’s governing body had a 115 million Swiss francs surplus at the close of the four-year cycle from 1999-2002.

But, in the same report, FIFA reported an expected loss of 134 million Swiss francs in May of 2002, when Platini finished his work as

an advisor and joined FIFA’s executive committee.

Those losses were linked to a bankruptcy scandal that hit International Sports and Leisure (ISL), a Swiss media and marketing firm in partnership with FIFA through the late 1990s.

FIFA earns significant revenue from the World Cup, and so the upturn in its financial fortunes after May 2002 was likely linked to income from the tournament.

A source familiar with FIFA’s finances at the time, but who requested anonymity, said the organisation had enough money to pay Platini.

“The financial situation was strong enough to handle such a payment,” the source said.

In the interview, Platini said he “never doubted” he would be paid, and had “put the matter to the side for a while,” before requesting the balance of his compensation in 2011.

He said he is being targeted in “unfounded attacks”, which he expects will continue until FIFA’s next president is chosen.

Between witness & accused In a statement released on Monday, Platini said he had been interviewed by Swiss authorities “not as a person accused of any wrongdoing, but simply in my capacity as a person providing information.”

But speaking to reporters on Monday, Lauber said: “we didn’t audition Mr. Platini as a witness.

That is not true. We investigated against him in between a witness and an accused persons.”

Lauber declined to say whether Platini’s explanations were satisfactory as that could “damage” the investigation.

FIFA’s ethics committee has said it typically launches inquiries against its officials once there is an “initial suspicion” — regardless of their rank. But it has so far remained silent on the case of Blatter and Platini.

South Korean tycoon Chung Mong-Joon, a rival candidate to Platini in the FIFA race, has called for a task force to run FIFA because of the “total meltdown” at the world body. - AFP

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SPORTS

OMAN UNDER-19 AND UNDER-23 NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAMS ARRIVE IN DOHA Oman under-19 and under-23 national football teams arrive in Doha on Wednesday to take part in the AFC U-19 Championship qualifiers and WAFF Championships respectively. Rasheed Jabercoached Oman under-19 team will vie for the top place in the Group D qualifiers of the AFC U-19 Championships from Friday. They are scheduled to begin their campaign against Lebanon on Friday.

They will play their second match against Kyrgyzstan on October 4 before completing their engagements with a match against Qatar on October 6. Hamad Al Azzani-coached under-23 team will compete in the inaugural Under-23 West Asia Football Federation (WAFF) Championship. Oman are placed in Group C along with arch-rivals the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Syria. They will play their first match against the UAE on October 4 and then complete their group engagements on October 7 with a match against Syria. — Supplied photos

Returning Azzan eager to tee off in Hong Kong The Omani champion golfer is hoping to make the cut at in Hong Kong tournament, his first competitive outing after he underwent a knee surgery early this year

MUSCAT: Azzan Al Rumhy, Oman’s top golfer and the national champion, is returning to competitive golfing with the Asia Pacific Amateur Golf Championship, to be held in Hong Kong from Thursday.

The four-day competition will take place at the scenic course of the Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club.

Azzan said from Hong Kong: “This is the first competitive tournament that I am going to take part after undergoing a knee surgery earlier this year.”

“I have recovered well. I started practising a month ago and I took part in monthly medal tournaments in Muscat. However, those cannot be compared to this tournament,” he added.

The Asia Pacific Golf Championship is one of the world’s premier tournaments in amateur golf. Over 140 golfers from 37 countries will be participating in this year’s tournament at Hong Kong’s iconic Clearwater Bay course. Azzan has been grouped with two Saudi Arabian players, along with Aidarali Asanov from Kyrgyzstan.

He is expected to tee off on the

BACK IN ACTION: Azzan Al Rumhy poses for a photograph at the picturesque Clearwater Bay Golf and Country Club in Hong Kong. – Supplied photo

opening morning with Phetnoy Siboupha from Laos and Soti Dinki from Papua New Guinea.

“My ultimate goal in this competition would be to make the cut because I haven’t been practising enough for the tournament because of injury lay-off and the surgery. So it will be a very challenging goal to achieve. Some top golfers from around the world are

participating in this tournament, so it would be nice to gain some valuable experience by playing alongside them,” the Omani golfer said.

Mundhir Al Barwani, the Chairman of the Oman Golf Committee (OGC) said: “We cannot put too much pressure on Azsan as he has recovered from surgery very recently. But it’s good to see he has

been very keen to participate in this tournament.”

Oman had been selected to take part in this prestigious tournament only last year after the OGC became a member of the Asia Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) in 2014, after which Oman debuted in the Asia Pacific Amateur Championship later that year in Australia.

BADMINTON

Prayag clinches a double at ISC tourney MUSCAT: Prayag Mohanty put in a dazzling act at the on-going National Bank of Oman-sponsored Annual Badminton Tournament organised by the Indian Social Club (ISC) Muscat and won the boys under-15 singles title to clinch a double crown.

Winner of the under-13 title, Prayag, who moved to Muscat a few months back from Hyderabad, added the under-15 singles crown to his collection after putting in a brilliant act of recovery to stun giant-killer Tarun Jayadeven.

In the final, when Tarun won the first game, it looked like Prayag’s fine run was coming to an end.

But Prayag played with maturity beyond his young shoulders and scripted a marvellous fightback and rallied to win the crown with final scores of 15-21, 21-14, 21-6.

Prayag gave away negative points as Tarun raced to a 11-5 lead in the second game. A change of strategy saw Prayag dominate the rallies and levelled at 14-all.

ing the under-15 singles title. Second seed Mohamed Harouz faced stiff resistance in the first game before advancing to the second round of the Open Men’s Singles with a 23-21, 21-13 victory over V.T. Nair.

FINALISTS: Prayag Mohanty, left, and Tarun Jayadevan.

From there, Prayag rattled the next seven points to level the score at one-game-all.

Prayag’s determination and skill was evident in the way he

controlled the rallies. He created scoring opportunities and was equally skilful at the net.

Tarun toiled under pressure but could not stop Prayag from claim-

Sluggish start In another first round match, No. 3 seed Percy Pereira overcame a sluggish start before overcoming a defiant Girish Pillai 21-19, 21-6.

In second round action of the same event, Shebaz Nasar looked in good nick and registered a confident 21-18, 21-13 win over Manoj Varghese.

Mathew Thomas was solid in his approach and denied the hardworking Prabhu AR any liberties with a 21-17, 21-18 victory.

Talented teenager Leon D’Souza scored a fine 21-11, 2113 win over Mohamad Amir and Geemon Baby rallied to defeat Sharath Kumar in three games 1521, 21-14, 21-15.

TENNIS

Brilliant Konta stuns Halep at Wuhan Open WUHAN: Britain’s Johanna Konta pulled off a stunning thirdset revival on Wednesday as she floored top seed Simona Halep in the biggest upset yet at the shockprone Wuhan Open.

As defending champion Petra Kvitova joined the exodus of top seeds, world No. 2 Halep appeared to have the measure of 66th-ranked Konta when she led 5-1 in the third.

But 24-year-old Konta, who reached the US Open last 16 as a qualifier, bravely fought her way back to take it 6-3, 3-6, 7-5 and set up a quarterfinal with childhood idol Venus Williams.

“I wasn’t actively thinking ‘I can win this’ or ‘It’s over’. I was just trying to stay out there as long as possible and keep fighting every single point,” Konta said.

She added that she grew up watching Williams, the seventime Grand Slam title-winner, and that the chance to play the American was “a bit of a childhood dream”.

Konta will now overtake Heather Watson to become Britain’s No. 1, and will almost certainly move into the world’s top 50 when new rankings are released on Monday.

She is also the the first British woman to beat a world number two in 34 years, after Sue Barker won against Tracy Austin in Brighton in 1981.

Halep said: “I can say I was dominating the third set till 5-2, then I don’t know what hap-

pened. I have no idea. What I know is that I lost from 5-2.”

One-way traffic It was the most remarkable result so far of what has been a highly unpredictable tournament in central China after a rash of upsets and retirements.

Last year’s winner Kvitova had looked exhausted after Tuesday’s three-set tussle with Daria Gavrilova, and it was no surprise when she went down to US Open finalist Roberta Vinci.

The Czech led 4-0 in the first set but she eventually lost the opener in a tie-break and then struggled in the second as Italy’s Vinci took it 7-6 (7/3), 6-2.

With Maria Sharapova, Victoria Azarenka, Caroline Wozniacki, Belinda Bencic also departing early, Ana Ivanovic became another big name to fall when she lost Garbine Muguruza.

The Serbian former world No. 1 won the first set but it was oneway traffic thereafter as Muguruza suddenly rediscovered her mojo and romped home 4-6, 6-1, 6-0.

“First set, I lost. I was a little bit disappointed,” said the hardhitting Spaniard.

“I said, look, I’m going to fight again and see what happens. I found my game again.”

Muguruza, currently ranked eighth, is among several players in the running to reach this month’s eight-player WTA Finals in Singapore, where at least five places remain up for grabs. - AFP

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Michalak and France seek boost ahead of Irish clash Philippe SaintAndre — who ends a controversial three-year reign after the World Cup — is hoping he will not have to repeat his Alex Ferguson hairdryer moment in last week’s game against Romania

LONDON: Philippe Saint-Andre wants a dominant French performance in their World Cup match against Canada which could see fly-half Frederic Michalak become his country’s all-time best points scorer in the tournament.

The French coach — who ends a controversial three-year reign after the World Cup — is hoping he will not have to repeat his Alex Ferguson hairdryer moment in last week’s game against Romania.

A woeful first-half performance provoked the 48-year-old former France captain into a dressingroom rant during the break which was caught on camera.

France pulled away in the second period from 17-6 up to prevail 38-11. But they still trail Pool D leaders Ireland by a point.

“A coach needs to be able to scream when needed, and to congratulate his players when things are going well,” coach Saint-Andre said ahead of the Canada game in

EYEING THE RECORD: France’s fly half Frederic Michalak kicks the ball during a training session. – AFP

Milton Keynes. “Apparently cameras are mandatory, so next time I’m getting upset, we’ll go under the showers.”

However, Saint-Andre accepts his side will have to go up a notch against a Canada side that showed a marked improvement in the 2318 loss to Italy last weekend from the one mow down by a relentless Irish surge of attacks in the opening 50-5 thrashing.

“We have to be better in the rucks,” said Saint-Andre.

“In modern rugby, there are 150180 rucks per match, so we have to be more accurate. I expect my team to be better in this area and show more discipline on Thursday.”

Michalak, who resumes his halfback partnership with Toulon teammate Sebastien Tillous-Borde that Saint-Andre prefers, should garner the three points he requires to pass Thierry Lacroix’s World Cup points national record of 124.

Saint-Andre, though, has given some key players a rest. Fijianborn wing Noa Nakatici and No 8 Louis Picamoles, who have played both pool games and the warm-up tests before will sit the match out.

The absence of Nakaitaci allows the first blooding at this level of Remy Grosso.

“Louis played the three friendlies in the lead-up to the World Cup, then two matches with a

four-day turnover, just as Noa Nakaitaci,” opined Saint-Andre.

“They need some recovery time — to gain back some freshness — and will work on other skills in the next few days.”

Best of the tournament Canada coach Kieran Crowley is the only handler at the tournament to have won the Webb Ellis trophy as a player. He has established a side with some useful backs and DTH van der Merwe’s try against the Italians is certainly one of the best of the tournament so far.

Crowley’s main fear is that the short space in between the two games against two fully profes-

sional sides as opposed to his which numbers some amateurs in it will prove too much for his plucky Canucks and a similar scoreline of 46-19 from the last World Cup could be on the cards.

“That’s the biggest challenge when you have short turnarounds, the mental side of it,” said the 54-year-old, who was a member of the All Blacks squad that won the inagural trophy in 1987 beating the French.

“You put a lot into it physically, but you also put a lot into it mentally. When I was involved in test match rugby it used to take me about a week to come back down before I was ready to go again.” - AFP

RUGBY WORLD CUP

Wales seek Fiji springboard towards quarterfinals CARDIFF: Sam Warburton’s Wales can take a giant step towards securing an automatic World Cup quarterfinal qualifying spot when they face Fiji on Thursday.

The Welsh skipper said that after their dramatic win over England, the team are determined not to talk themselves out of another victory.

The Welsh are second in the “Pool of Death” on points difference from Australia, the two sides having both notched up two victories in two matches.

England sit third having lost 2825 to Wales and play the Wallabies at Twickenham on Saturday in a must-win match.

Warburton said the team had been buoyed by their outstanding win over England even though it came at an injury cost, Hallam Amos and Scott Williams ruled out and Liam Williams undergoing concussion protocols.

“The players are talking to each other and we definitely can’t let this slip now against Fiji,” Warburton said. “I know the players aren’t going to be in the wrong mindset going into the Fiji game because it would be so easy to slip up against Fiji, who I guarantee won’t be 66-0 like it was four years ago.

“We know we’re going to have to be at our best to get a good result,

so there’s going to be no complacency whatsoever.”

Indeed, that rogue result in New Zealand four years ago aside, it was Fiji who produced one of the performances of the 2007 World Cup in France when they beat Wales 3834 to send the Welsh home early.

“The performance against England sort of proved to ourselves we can compete and we’ve got a fantastic chance of doing well and we’ve always believed that but it’s one thing believing it and another thing seeing it,” Warburton said. “Being able to go to England and win at Twickenham was a massive confidence booster for the whole squad.”

Fiji discipline worries Wales coach Warren Gatland said he wanted his players to build a run of victories.

“The longer we are together the better we get and when we’ve won Grand Slams and stuff and big performances the momentum carries us through and that’s what I’m counting on for Thursday,” Gatland said.

Fiji -- who have lost Nemani Nadolo to a ban but welcome back Dominiko Waqaniburotu from his week on the sidelines -- now have little left but an upset to hope for in the tournament’s toughest pool.

In an arduous opening to the tour-

nament, Fiji played and lost to England and Australia in just five days.

“It is tough,” said assistant coach Tabai Matson who played for Fiji in the 1999 World Cup and later played 10 games for the All Blacks.

“But in saying that we are still enjoying ourselves and we have got a great opportunity in front of us. The mountain just got steeper.

Now we are relying on other teams to fall over.”

Fiji have lost two players — prop Isei Colati and wing Waisea Nayacalevu — through injury, but Matson said they have taken heart from the way Wales overcame a horror run of injuries to overpower England. - AFP

WORLD CUP WINNER

Johnson urges England to stay positive LONDON: Martin Johnson experienced the ultimate high and some painful lows in his Rugby World Cups as player and coach and says the current team and management are still well-placed to reach the quarter-finals if they focus on what is in front of them.

After losing to Wales last week, the knives have been out for England and coach Stuart Lancaster, though victory over Australia on Saturday would put them in a strong position to advance.

“It sounds obvious, of course, but they just need to win on Saturday,” the former England captain told Reuters in an interview. “It’s essential that they get the Wales game out of their system, which I’m sure they will have done after the reviews, and focus everything on Australia.

“If they win that, then it’s game on.”

Johnson said he was frustrated by some aspects of England’s approach against Wales, particularly after getting themselves into such a strong position when leading by 10 points early in the second half.

“I just felt they stopped playing a bit,” he said at an event organised by tournament sponsor MasterCard.

“It seemed they were just trying to hold on to what they had and I was watching it thinking ‘no’ when they kept kicking the ball away.

“There was that moment in the second half when we were on the attack and Wales had just lost two backs to injuries and we opted to try to drive it. I felt that was the time to try to move the ball, though of course it’s always easy to make those calls when you’re not out there.”

In his defence, Johnson usually made the right calls when he was out there, and he has been at the sharp end in three World Cups as a player and one as coach.

He was part of the team who beat Australia in the 1995 quarter-finals with a last-minute Rob Andrew drop goal, only to be brought crashing down to earth in the semis by New Zealand and Jonah Lomu.

Four years later the boot was on the other foot as Jannie De Beer’s five drop goals for South Africa sent England packing at the quarter-final stage.

In 2003 England finally came good, with Johnson hoisting the Webb Ellis Cup in Sydney before retiring as a player.

Somewhat reluctantly, he was dragged back to coach the team and guided them to the Six Nations title in 2011 and then another run to the World Cup quarter-finals before a somewhat meek performance resulted in defeat by France. - Reuters

PA I N F U L LY L O N G R O L L C A L L

No gain without pain, this is Rugby World Cup LONDON: A World Cup that has left mangled knees, disjointed shoulders, two broken jaws and a litany of other injuries is heading for another painfully long roll call as the physical demands of rugby become ever more onerous.

The sight of three Welsh players — Scott Williams (knee), Hallam Amos (shoulder) and Liam Williams (concussion) — carried or transported off in a dramatic four minute period against England epitomised the increasingly gladiatorial efforts required at the World Cup. Halfway through the pool qualifying games 16 players have already been ruled out of the 2015 World Cup. South Africa captain Jean de Villiers retired from international rugby after breaking his jaw for the second time in six weeks with the Springboks.

According to one World Rugby study that is one more injury than for all of the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.

The global governing body of the sport is still looking at the casualty rate though it has made a priority of players health, bringing in a host of new rules and cameras to monitor players in trouble on the pitch.

Some coaches are already questioning the short turnaround between some World Cup matches — as short as four full days — and

Petition slams Faith’s rendition of World Cup anthem LONDON: A petition urging British host broadcaster ITV to drop award-winning Paloma Faith’s rendition of the Rugby World Cup anthem approached 10,000 signatures on Wednesday, with many comparing it to a strangled cat.

While ITV is backing the eccentric singer’s idiosyncratic version of “World In Union”, the song heard in full at the start of its World Cup coverage, and going into and out of every advertising break, has proved too much for some.

“Already sick of Paloma Faith’s awful rendition of “World In Union”? Worried that it might ruin your Rugby World Cup? Then sign this

whether more protective measures are needed.

“It’s a pretty brutal game at the moment,” said Wales’ New Zealand coach Warren Gatland.

“I don’t know whether four or five day turnarounds in a World Cup are too short.”

petition and let ITV know your thoughts!”, reads the petition on the change.org website, started

by Jonathan Wilson of Worcester in central England.

The letter to ITV Sport calls for Faith’s song to be removed from the television broadcasts “in order to make it a more enjoyable experience for all spectators.”

Faith has had hit singles such as “Only Love Can Hurt Like This” and won the 2015 Brit Award for the best British female solo artist. But that has cut no ice with signatories lambasting the 34-year-old Londoner.

“Excruciatingly awful,” typified the comments.

More money, more injuries “This is rugby where the physical dimension has become paramount,” said France’s coach Philippe Saint-Andre, who lost wing Yoann Huget for the rest of the tournament when he suffered a serious knee injury in the open-

Others included: “Sounds like a cat being strangled”; “absurd vocal gymnastics”; “a parrot being tortured”; “the singing is criminally awful”, and “I am drowning in pain”.

“She soured my Guinness and made 1 of my kids cry,” said one petitioner.

“This version make me want to pour boiling wax down my ears. Please stop this massacre!” wrote another.

“This is the single most awful decision about rugby since its inception, including rugby league,” said one.

Even Faith’s fans have put the boot in. “The song is done in her style and I congratulate her on that. That said, it is dreadful,”

ing win over Italy. “All nations are well prepared, not just the best four or five.

“There are no easy matches. And when you have a long preparation with players who are in top form, hyper prepared, there has to be injuries. And having two matches so

wrote one signatory.

ITV does not seem likely to change.

“We are happy with Paloma’s rendition,” an ITV source said.

Faith told BBC radio: “Some people are slating it; I feel like they don’t like change, but I don’t mind. I think they don’t like it because it’s being played too much.”

“World In Union” was first sung at the 1991 World Cup in New Zealand by Kiri Te Kanawa. The melody is “Thaxted”, the stately theme from Gustav Holst’s “Jupiter, the Bringer of Jollity”, part of the British composer’s orchestral suite “The Planets”, completed in 1916. - AFP

close together increases this factor,” said Saint-Andre.

“It’s hard to say that it’s one particular thing,” said Mike Catt, England’s attack coach and a World Cup winner in 2003.

“It’s a tough sport. They are proper athletes and are very, very

mobile. In a contact sport things will always happen. It was a lot easier when I played with defences that didn’t tackle as hard and weren’t as organised,” he added.

World Rugby has ordered greater attention be paid to overly aggressive play that could result in serious injuries.

Referees have been ordered to clamp down on tackles around the neck and the match officials have made greater use of the video referee to single out violence — especially to the head.

World Rugby president Bernard Lapasset said before the World Cup rugby must not be a sport that ‘leaves players concussed’ but one that can be played by everyone.

World Rugby plans a reform of the rules after the World Cup. It could even look at the format of the competition to allow more rest days, according to Lapasset.

However, rugby has become a sport where brutal impacts are part and parcel of the professional era.

“You get hit hard, there is no longer a game,” said France lock Pascal Pape, who accepts the sacrifices he has made to his body but will call it a day in a year’s time.

With a half-serious smile, Pape said the new generation will also have to put up with the battering.

“The young ones? They will earn more money so they will have to put up with a bit more pain.” - AFP

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OMANI DESIGNER, NADIA AL SHAMSI WON HEARTS AND MINDS WITH HER EXQUISITE JEWELLERY IN LONDON

Modernity, Tradition, and Global Appeal The 60th International Jewellery Exhibition in London saw the participation of top jewellery designers from 74 countries, but Omanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nadia Al Shamsi, the lone female Arab exhibitor in the prestigious event, shone brightest with her unique jewellery designs.

Story T.A. Ameerudheen Photography Ismail Al Farsi

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adia Al Shamsi still soaks up in the accolades she won at the 60th London Jewellery Exhibition recently.

The Omani jewellery artist was the only Arab exhibitor at the prestigious annual event held in September, which saw participation of top designers from 74 countries.

However, Nadia became the cynosure of all eyes as she showcased hand-made necklaces, finger rings, bangles that reflected the rich traditional heritage of the Sultanate.

“My brand, Mazayen, won appreciation from potential buyers and gem suppliers across the world.

They were curious to know about the specialty of my designs. I told them that I drew inspiration from the Sultanate’s rich cultural heritage and the traditional Omani jewellery to create impressive designs in silver, brass, and copper,” said Nadia on her return from the famous jewellery show in the world.

The unique collection is a kind of self expression for Nadia, whose tryst with art and design began since her school days. When most of her friends were engaged in outdoor activities, Nadia immersed herself in painting, beading and stitching clothes sitting in the cool confines of her home.

“I inherited the artistic skills from my mother,” she asserts.

Being passionate about jewellery, Nadia soon started to create ornaments using beads and strings. In 2009, she launched her company, Nadia Al Shamsi Trading, manufacturing accessories.

“It all started from my home, and I rebranded it as Mazayen in 2014. I am happy to continue it as a home based business,” said the entrepreneur who works at the Ministry of Heritage and Culture.

Her home close to Grand Hyatt Hotel in Shatti Al Qurum has a mini workshop with all the machinery for manufacturing ornaments. “I will begin my work after returning from office on weekdays. Weekends are hectic as I spend the entire day inside the workshop,” said Nadia, who works in the Ministry of Heritage and Culture.

Even before Mazayen products made a mark abroad, Nadia had won the hearts of fashion-conscious customers in Oman. “I am a perfectionist and I take utmost care in producing the best products. My designs are inspired by Omani culture. The brand name, Mazayen, which means beautiful woman or ‘Miss Camel’, too, implies Omani heritage.”

As the brand grew from strength to strength, Nadia craved to learn more about jewellery design. So she went to London and enrolled at the London Jewellery School.

In 2014, she earned her Diploma in Creative Jewellery Design with distinction. From then on, there was no looking back for Nadia. She incorporated the lessons learnt which helped Mazayen carve a niche for itself.

She also began to participate in exhibitions and network with artists from other parts of the world.

“I organised my first exhibition, Handmade in Oman, at my home.

I asked the participants to bring handmade products. And it was a huge success,” she said.

Later, she figured in an exhibition in UAE, titled Wonders of the East. And the London event was her biggest achievement so far. “It was a nice experience. I am feeling proud of myself.”

Mazayen’s unique items captured the imagination of visitors and Nadia was happy to receive orders from two major institutions in London. “I exhibited two rings with stones and a chain around it, and it won good appreciation. I got orders from a museum and two boutiques in London,” she said.

Nadia is now busy manufacturing jewellery items for her British clients. “I will deliver the products by the end of October,” she said.

MAZAYEN Nadia Al Shamsi, who began designing accessories in 2009, launched Nadia Al Shamsi Trading company in 2012. The company was rebranded as Mazayen in 2014. Mazayen makes unique handmade jewellery. The designs are inspired by the heritage and culture of Oman but with a modern twist. Nadia became the first Omani and only Arab artist to exhibit in the 2015 edition of the International London Jewellery Exhibition.

Contact: +968 9946 9007

INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY LONDON For over 60 years, International Jewellery London has connected the worlds’ most influential jewellery designers, brands, gem suppliers, allied services and manufacturers with senior level retailers. Organisers of International Jewellery London - Reed Exhibitions, organise 13 global jewellery events throughout the year. The portfolio is designed to deliver the industry with the business contacts and content needed to achieve success around the globe.

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GOMEZ FEELS LUCKY TO HAVE ANISTON AS A FRIEND

Singer-actress Selena Gomez feels very lucky to have actress Jennifer Aniston as a friend, and knows she can turn to her for advice at any time. The Same Old Love hitmaker shared that the Cake actress, 46, is a kind, warm and a helpful person. “I’m very lucky to have her as a friend and we’ve talked a lot about dealing with the media attention and having your life exposed at times. I know I can call her for advice and that’s a nice feeling,” Look magazine quoted Gomez as saying. “I met Jennifer through my management company and she’s been so wonderful to me. She’s invited me over to her house and made pizza for me and just been so kind and warm,” she added.

LISTEN RUSSELL CROWE TO STAR IN HISTORICAL DRAMA Actor Russell Crowe will star in the survival drama In Sand and Blood, set in Africa in the early 19th century. The project has been in development since 2010 with Public Enemies writer Ronan Bennett penning the script, based on Dean King’s non-fiction book Skeletons on the Zahara: A True Story of Survival.

MATT DAMON WANTS TO GO TO MARS

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The Martian actor Matt Damon has joked he wants to go to Mars to escape the everyday stresses of family life. “It’s funny because in my life I’m rarely by myself. With four kids I could use some time alone on Mars,” Damon, who plays an astronaut in the new Ridley Scottdirected sci-fi movie said.

— IANS

Human Indignity

A

s I was taking a breather from my long walk, I saw a truck stop at a traffic light.

The driver threw carelessly the cigarette he was smoking on the roadside. A gust of hot wind swept it away and it landed on dry grass about twenty feet from where I was standing.

It was a reckless action. Needless to say that such people cause catastrophic fires from one single moment of neglect.

That was not all. His 40-feet long truck carried some 300 sheep pressed together.

The animals were obviously in great distress. Some had their heads trapped between two supporting woods at the back of the vehicle. It was a pitiful sight.

The traffic light changed to green and the truck disappeared with its distressed load. Barely five minutes later, a similar truck stopped at the same spot.

This time, to my amazement, the back of the vehicle had people hurdled together.

Each of them had a haunting look in their eyes, staring unsee-

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ingly in front of them. Then a pathetic thing happened a few seconds later.

With the glow of orange, the vehicle pushed forward, swerved to the right, lurched to the left throwing the labourers on top of each other.

The driver then slammed the brake and the truck came to a grinding halt. The door at the back was flung open and half a dozen men spilled over to the hot asphalt road.

A group of youths behind me thought it was funny and roared with laughter.

The driver jumped out and strutted out. He treated the laughter as a round of applause for entertaining onlookers.

He almost bowed at the youths as he was entering a small supermarket. It was not surprising that nobody bothered to check the welfare of the labourers.

They just helped each other up, brushed away the dust, and calmly returned to the truck.

If you think the Gulf countries have put a brake on such practices, then think again. Everybody

turns a blind eye.

I once had pictures of these trucks and offered them to a local newspaper. As a reporter, I thought I should awaken the conscience of top businessmen.

The editor read the story that went along with the pictures and returned it with a thank you note. I was shocked when he explained that it had “no human interest” and his readers would not appreciate it.

If it was not an insult to the animals then it certainly was to human beings driven in a cattle truck with no protection.

Later on I learned that the owner of the newspaper had a large livestock company and a construction firm.

I could not argue with an editor who was paid to do what he was told and not what was really happening. The irony was that the labourers were his countrymen.

But then who cares two hoots about people who carry bricks all day long.

I still have the pictures and the faces that stare back would haunt anyone in their right minds.

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Destination

Arrival Operating time days

SUR Black Mass (Biography | Crime) (12+) Cast: Johnny Depp, Benedict Cumberbatch, Dakota 12:00, 02:30, 04:45, 09:30, 11:45 PM Singh is Bling (Hindi) (Action) (TBC) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Amy Jackson, Kay Kay Menon 12:00, 07:00, 09:25 PM Puli (Tamil) (Action | Adventure) (12+) Cast: Vijay, Sridevi, Shruti Haasan 6:40 PM Sicario (Action | Crime | Drama) (12+) Cast: Benicio Del Toro, Emily Blunt, Josh Brolin 4:30, 11:55 PM SALALAH Pay the Ghost (2D) (15+) (Horror/Thriller) 12:30PM Black Mass (2D) (12+) (Biography) Cast: Johnny Depp, Benedict Cumberbatch 12:05/09:15/11:30PM The Walk (3D) (PG) (Adventure) 10:15AM/07:00PM Hotel Transylvania 2 (3D)(PG) (Animation) 10:30AM/02:20PM Sicario (2D) (12+) (Action/Crime/Drama) 02:10/ 09:35 PM Straight Outta Compton (2D) (18+) (Drama) Cast: O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, 1:30/4:25PM Operator (2D) (12+) (Action/Drama/Thriller) Cast: Mischa Barton, Ving Rhames, Luke Goss 10:15AM/04:00/11:50PM Singh Is Bling (2D) (TBC) (Action) 4:00/09:15/ 11:45PM Man Up (2D) (18+) (Comedy/Romance) 11:50AM/ 05:45PM Puli (2D) (12+) (Tamil) (Action) Cast: Vijay, Sridevi, Shruti Haasan 6:30PM

BAHJA CINEMA Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com Black Mass ( Biography,/ Crime/ Drama) Cast: Johnny Depp, Benedict Cumberbatch, Dakota Johnson 5.00, 9.30 & 11.55 pm CP No: 2645 (12+) Straight Outta Compton (Biography/ Drama/ Music) Cast: O Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchel 5.00, 9.30 & 11.55 p.m.

CP No: 2643 (18+) Pawn Sacrifice (Biography/Drama) Cast: Liev Schreiber, Lily Rabe, Toby Maguire 1.00, 3.00 & 7.30 pm CP No: 2644 (PG 12) 99 Homes (Drama) Cast: Andrew Garfield, Michael Shannon, Laura Dem 1.00, 3.00 & 7.30 pm CP No: 2646 (PG)

STAR CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om Pulli (Tamil) (Act) Cast: Vijay & Shruthi Hassan 3-00, 6-30 & 10-00 Pm At Cinema Main Singh Is Bling (Hindi) (Act/Com) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Amy Jackson & Lara Dutta 3-45, 6-45 & 9-45 Pm Cinema-3 // 9-30 Pm cinema -2 Kunji Ramayanam (Mal) (Dram/Com ) Cast: Vineet Srinivasan, Aju Vargees & Srinda 3-45 , 6-45 & 9-45 Pm cinema-4 Shivam (Telugu) (Rom/Act) From FRIDAY Cast: Ram, Rashi Khanna & Brahmanandam 3-30, 6-30 & 9-30 Pm At Cinema -2 Programmes are subject to change

WITH LOVE

WITH LOVE

WEATHER RELATIVE HUMIDITY

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36)

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

15:00 15:00 15:00

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

Quriyat Sur Jaalan

16:30 18:00 19:30

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

34 27

07:00

Ruwi

10:25

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

06:00 06:00

Nizwa Ruwi

Daily Daily

Fahud Yibal

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

08:40 11:00

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

Marmul

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

15:00

Salalah

07:00

Daily

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

THIRUNISHA October 2, 2008

LISTINGS

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence 24569603 Directorate General of Customs 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries 24510228 Public Relations Admin 24560099 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

07:00

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

Ruwi Ruwi

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

06:00 14:30

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100) Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

ZOYA AZAM October 1, 2012

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 17 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to extra@timesofoman.com

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

SARVESH NIRMAL GHEEWALA October 1, 2009 Daily

TO SUR (ROUTE 55)

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

NAGA SINDOORI T. October 1, 2008

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

10:20 12:30

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) Sur Sur

KRITTIK T. October 1, 2012

0

ROYAL OMAN POLICE 07:30 14:30

BHARAT NANDAN BODALA October 1, 2006

Minimum

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

40-80%

0

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 20:50

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334

Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

23291635

HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre 24485052 Atlas Hospital Ruwi 24811743/ Ghubra 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi 24563641 Azaiba 24499269 Sohar 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre,

Hamriya 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb 24420740 Ceregem National Raak 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic 24563217 Elixir Health Centre 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre 24472274 Hamdan Hospital 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital 24760100 24 Hrs Emergency 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar 26751128 MBD 24799077 Al Khuwair 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC 22004000 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours) 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot 24704455 Air Arabia 24700828 Air France 24562153 Air India 24799801

Air New Zealand 24700732 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 24701128 British Airways 24568777 Cathay Pacific 24789818 Egypt Air 24794113 Emirates Air 24404400 Ethiopian Airlines 24660313 Gulf Air 80072424 Indian 24791914 Iran Air 24787423 Japan Airlines 24704455 Jazeera Airways 23294848 Jet Airways 24787248 Kenya Airways 24660300 KML Royal Dutch Airlines 24566737 Kuwait Airways 24701262 LOT Polish Airlines 24796387 Lufthansa 24796692 Malaysian Airlines 24560796 Middle East Airlines 24796680 Oman Air 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines 24792471 Qatar Airways 24771900 Qantas 24559941 Royal Jordanian 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24789485 Singapore Airlines 24791233 Shaheen Air 24816565 SriLankan Airlines 24784545 Swiss International Airlines 24796692 Thai Airways 24705934

T HURSDAY, O CTO BER 1, 2015

C11

LIFESTYLE A Town From the Pages of The Arabian Nights

GHAWI BAZAAR

BUY LOCAL: POTTERY

PHOTOGRAPHY: ISMAIL AL FARSI

PHOTOGRAPHY: VENECIO DATAN

Earthenware pots are part and parcel of traditional Omani life and have been used as multipurpose containers for dates, water and grain. Though the demand has been dwindling every year, potters in Bahla, Bidbid, Saham, Bilad Bani Bu Hassan, Dhofar, Wadi Al Ma’awil, and Sumail still carry forward Oman’s rich legacy.

WHAT One can find pottery in different sizes and shapes in souqs across the Sultanate. Pots known as Jihal are used for keeping water; red pots with a thick layer known as Khuroos are used for preserving dates and pots known as Brams are used as cooking utensils.

Pottery is also made as coffee pots and thermoses.

BY SALEH AL SHAIBANY

WHERE

W

hen I was entering Bidiyah, it was as if the time had stood still for this town in the Eastern Region of Oman. There were camels roaming freely in the narrow streets, competing with humans, sheep, goats, and even donkeys. I drove about 230km from Muscat to reach this enchanting and colourful town that has 15 villages, each one with its undefined beauty and uniqueness. I know this because I drove to each one of them and it took me two days to accomplish this mission. Al Hawayih village is my favourite. The old souq retains the charm of the ancient history of Oman. The air was filled with spice, fresh Arabic coffee, frankincense, the sweetness of the halwa, and of course the banging noise of the silversmith.

I walked in the narrow alleyways flanked by shops, jostling with tourists and an odd donkey saddled with dates. I stopped in the middle and allowed myself to absorb the surrounding. What I saw was exactly what I read as a boy in the pages of The Arabian Nights’ stories as narrated by Princess Scheherazade to the Sultan of Persia. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw this old shopkeeper standing just a few metres from me. I walked towards his shop and started talking to him. He smiled and acknowledged my Salaam Alaikum. He stroked his long, white and flowing beard as he listened to me. His name was Khalil Al Hajri and he told me he was too old to bother to count his age.

“Bidiyah is one of very few towns in Oman that has not changed at all,” he said, while tugging his beard.

I agreed. The icy cold fingers of the vast development machine have not really touched the delightful little place. Khalil’s shop was full of curio cabinets laden with old silver items such as bracelets, earrings, necklaces, daggers, knives, incense burners

The old souq in Al Hawayih village retains the charm of the ancient history of Oman. The air was filled with spice, fresh Arabic coffee, frankincense, and the sweetness of halwa

and items of home decorations.

He said they were all antiques made more than a hundred years ago by local silversmiths. Those days, he explained, silver was imported from India, melted in Bidiyah and the items designed and moulded by master craftsmen.

I entered his shop and the air was scented by frankincense that was burning in the bakhoor vessel on top of a shelf. He explained to me that silver and frankincense were two important heritages that have been handed over to every Omani house since ancient times.

“You cannot be a proper Omani if you don’t have these two things in your house. Frankincense is soaked in perfume oil

and burned in a silver vessel to scent your house. Before I left his shop, I opened up my wallet to buy my wife a few trinkets of silver and the scented frankincense. My next stop was a ten minute walk to the local camel breeder. Ahmed Mahfoodh has his five acre farm at the end of the souq. He has three camel pens and each one was home to twenty beasts. The amazing thing was that Ahmed named each camel. He saw the amusement on my face and said, “a good breeder must bond with his camels to breed more camels. When you called them by their names, they respond in a loving way. That’s how a breeder and his

camels connect to forge an affectionate relationship.”

Unlike the scented shop of Khalil, the air in the camel’s farm had a foul smell of stench of their droppings mixed with hay and grains from what they feed from. Ahmed stroked the base of the neck of a camel he called Asma and was talking to the animal in a very affectionate tone.

When I queried the reason of his extraordinary action, he answered, “she is pregnant. I have to assure her that everything will be alright and God is with her to ensure a safe delivery.”

Ahmed also walked to another camel standing just a few minutes away. He did not stroke the beast but patted it on its side and mumbled a few words. When I raised my eyebrows, he said with a smile on his face, “Ismail is responsible for this pregnancy and I have to congratulate him for his efforts so he can be more prolific.”

I left the farm with a pot of camel’s milk as a parting gift. I walked back to the parking and drove to my desert camp because the town has no hotels.

Over the camp fire that night, I shared my experience with tourists about the shopkeeper and his intriguing tale of seduction and the way a camel breeder bonds with his animals.

Pottery manufacturing dates back to the fourth millennium BC, and it is proven by the archaeological excavations in Buraimi, and the north of Oman. Clay is the main component of pottery. Bahla is the centre of the industry in Oman as the soil is rich in clay.

Have a favourite Omani product or shop?

Tell us about it: ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

Have a favourite Omani product or shop?

Tell us about it: ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

C1 2

TH UR S DAY, OCTOBER 1, 2 015

LIFESTYLE A BRIEF INSIGHT ON Come November 12, UK UK’s K’s s biggest live acts, The Stereophonics, will ill perform pe erform m at Shangri-La’s Barr arr a rr All

Platinum Pl P Pla latinu um m records

Jissah Resort & Spa. pa. The Th he event promises to ob be ea revelling evening with g filled dw itth songs you’ve heard rd d before and some brand new tracks. Doors open n at 7pm and the show w starts at 9pm. Visit it stereophonicsoman. an. an. com for details

Studio a albums Music videos eos

6times es es Is the year when Ste Sterophonics formed und under the band name “Trag “T rag Love Company” “Tragic

live ep performances e fo er erfo orm rmances mances

Youtube Youtub be videos vide eos views vie ews

Richard R ichard J ones Jones

Kelly K elly e ll lly y Jones Jones

Adam A dam Zindani Zindani

Jamie J amie Morrison Morrison

bass guitar and backing vocals

lead vocals and guitar

guitar and backing vocals

drums

Richard and Kelly are not related although sharing the same last name. Both of them are the only members that have been in the band since the beginning in 1992

In 2007 Kelly Jones brought out his first solo album, Only the Names Have Been Changed, as a limited edition release, which managed to reach number 1 on the iTunes download chart

Adam Zindani joined Sterophonics in 2007 as a live guitarist then became a permanent member a year later.

He is also the lead vocalist and guitarist for the Birminghambased band, Casino.

Jamie Morrison joined Sterophonics in 2012.

He also designs and sells ponchos via his Poncho Club clothing line and runs his Ninjas & Wolves Record label.

Sources: BFI, IRPA, Youtube, Stereophonics.com

in the UK albums ums um ms ch chart hart

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D6

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D2

T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE FOR RENT

2BHK, 2 Baths, Split A/C, Wadi kabeer towards Al bustan, Near Indian Elementary School.

Contact 99441193, 93004802 New 1/2 B/R RES/ Comm. flats near Medical College Bausher directly from owner.

Contact: 92158031 2 Flats single bedroom available in Wadi Kabir 100/- including electricity & water. Contact: 99441798 5 Flats single bedroom available including electricity & water 110/in Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99441798 Recently refurbished ground floor apartment near Indian school Wadi Kabir, 2 Bedrooms and sitting, 2 baths, kitchen. Contact: 98011224 For Indian executive bachelor or single lady – single room with attached bathroom in Mumtaz area.

Rent R.O 125/- incl . Water / electricity. Contact: 99839629 Villa at al Khuwair having six bedrooms, six bathrooms, sitting, dinning, hall, kitchen Etc. Contact24833972/24833974/99367448 Single BHK flat available in Honda Road Ruwi. Contact 24833972/24833974/99367448 Villa for rent in south Mabela 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family lounge, kitchen & 3 toilets. Contact92212212 between 10 am to 5 pm Fully furnished 2 BHK apartments available at Bareeq Al Shatti.

Contact 92888063 2BHK flats & shops available for rent at Honda road in a brand new building (dish & split A/C provided in flats). Contact: 91165807 / 92976611 Shops for rent at City Seasons hotel Al Khuwair. Contact: 24394800 Single room available for Executive bachelor near Zakhar mall behind Kamat Restaurant.

Contact 94271085

02 BHK Commercial / residential (with Split A/C) flat at Honda road.

Contact : 99342733 / 99795241

Room Al Khuwair R.O 120/-.

Contact : 97799175

2 BHK residential flat opposite to AL Nadha Hospital. Contact : 99342733 / 99795241

1BHK Mumtaz R.O 250/-.

Contact: 97799175

2 bedroom villa in Sidab.

Contact: 95755953 / 95555162

1,2 BHK Darsait. Contact : 97799175

1BHK Ruwi & 3BHK Bosher.

Contact: 99024730

2BHK Ghubra RO 325/-.

Contact: 97799175

2BHK new Amerat with AC 230/R.O. Contact: 99024730

1BHK Ghubra R.O 275/-.

Contact : 97799175 2 BHK Wadi Kabeer R.O 300/-.

Contact : 97799175 Small office space for rent near Ruwi Mosque & Badr Hospital.

Contact : 99512270 Flat for rent in Wadi Kabir near Indian Primary School 2B and 1k.

Contact : 92222922 Flats for rent near Indian School in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99777122 Deluxe 3 BHK Penthouse with Seaview, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact 9772 1313 / 95070421 New Building in Mutrah, 2 B/D Room Flat + Setting Room,3 Baths+ Kitchen with split unit Ac’s. Behind Khimiji’s main office/opposite to Oman House Call 99419712 Flat for rent, 2 bedrooms, 1 sitting room, 3 toilets next to Al Hassan Company in W/K. Contact: 99210008 For rent : showroom / storage space available (area 290 SQM, 6M height) facing Al Mina street, Jibroo.

Contact: 99360631 / 96760819 Wadi Kabir, 2 Bed Room Flat with sitting Room, 2 Bath Rooms+ Kitchen. Opposite to Kuwaiti Mosque.

Close to Indian school.

Call 99419712/99261628

House for rent 4BR family hall, fitting room, dining room, kitchen, store with A/C & satellite reception at Mawaleh south , behind Sultan discount center rent R.O 550/-.

Contact: 93653311 600 SQT commercial flat for rent opposite Oman flourmill Darsait more details. Contact: 91214849/ 99364735 Shops for rent in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 99888390 Villa for rent - Al Seeb/Al Mawelah Block 5 - 4 bedrooms with attached bathrooms , Majlis, 2 halls, kitchen and storeroom. split Ac and carpark Contact 99564616 / 99498448 2BHK with split AC near PDO Gate No.2 Qurum available for immediate renting. Contact : 94057023 2 BHK with split AC Al Khuwair -33 for residential & commercial use.

Contact : 94057023 New flats for rent in Darsait Al Sahal. Contact: 99777351 Flats, shops for rent in Ruwi, MBD & Mumtaz area. Contact 97293708 3BHK flat Darsait Near I.D card Medical 450/- R.O. Contact: 99358589 / 95570288 1, 2 BHK in Azaiba. Contact: 99385835 / 99428143

New deluxe villas at Madinat Qaboos. Contact: 99369081 1,2 BHK flats in Wadi Al Kabeer.

Contact: 99369081 1000 sq mtrs Industrial land in Ghala suitable for ware house workshop etc. Contact: 24700120 / 92584715 One Bed room flat with full furniture available at ruwi high street, Rent RO 200. Furniture cost RO 350.

Contact 99445675.

500/1000 sqm industrial land with compound wall at Misfah behind Oman Oil filling Station.

Contact : 99342733 / 99795241 1& 2 BHK flats for rent at Wadi Kabir, Wadi Adai, Hamriya, Al Khoud and Mabela and shop at Al Khoud land line. Contact : 24834644 GSM 93994401/ 02/ 03, 3 lines 1bedroom attached, toilet & kitchen in AL Khuwair R.O 140/-. #95154331 3BHK , 3bathrooms , 2balconys NRAL Hassan W/ Kabir R.O 320/-.

Contact: 99384640 2BHK close to Indian School Kindergarten Wadi Kabir R.O 300/-.

Contact: 99476728 / 98484415 1BHK R.O 225/- close to Indian Nursery, Darsait. Contact: 99476728 / 98484415 Flat for rent in Wadi Kabeer (2 bedrooms, 1 Majlis, 3 toilets, 1 Kitchen & hall. Contact: 95562646 Villa for rent in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 95562646 / 94059333 Fully furnished luxury 2 bedroom flat for rent at Ghala for short or long term basis. # 99886386/ 99881653

Villa for rent in Al Khuwair 33, 8 bedrooms & 5 bathrooms with parking area near Taimur Mosque.

Contact: 99366624 1BHK flats available for rent in CBD area. Contact: 98116480 Flat for rent in Hamriya.

Contact: 99341112 2 bed room flat at Al Khoudh Commercial Street Souq.

Contact: 99224748 / 99332297 3500 sqr mtrs open Industrial land for rent in Rusail. Contact 99792181

Furnished room for rent at Al Khuwair R.O 225/- for family only.

Contact: 99251975 Flat and show room for rent Al Khuwair 33, Al Ghubrah, Darsait and Jibroo. Contact: 24485240 / 24485241 / 93651633 / 92109563 1 & 2 bedroom flats available for rent in wadi-kabir (opp: pencil bldg), ideal for company staff / families bulk corporate deal possible.

Contact: 97677170

AVAILABLE Party & Wedding equipment rentals.

Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

FOR HIRE

1000 sqr mtrs store in Mabela industrial area. Contact 99792181

Trailor with driver for hire.

Contact: 92303774

New 1 & @2 Bhk Flat in CBD opposit Al maya supermarket.

Contact: 99792181

Bobcat Grader and roller for rent.

Contact: 94584688

1 BHK flat in Ruwi ( Honda Road).

Contact 99792181 2 BHK Flat in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181 Commercial cum residential new building looking for one company, location Muttrah near Police Station.

For more details contact: 99364735 / 95729711

New flats for rent in Darsait, Al Sahal. Contact: 99311525

Twin villa 6BR hall, kitchen at Al Ansab-2. Contact: 99747560 / 99444786

Big room bathroom attached with kitchen near Riyam Park Muscat RO 100. Contact: 95094028

1BHK flat with A/C AL Khuwair 250/- R.O. Contact: 99358589 / 95570288

NRI Plot for sale 10 cent plot facing the lake for sale in Kollam town, 2 km away from Mulangadakam temple.

Please contact: 00968 91271516 Old Goan Portuguese house for sale location Parra Bardez North Goa build-up area 150 sq mtr Total area 400 sq mtr price 1.85 CR negotiable India. Contact: 919225903788 Oman.

Contact: 93277007 (call after 7 pm)

T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5

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DAILY GUIDE

AFFORDABLE QUALIFIED STAFF AVAILABLE: EŽ ƟŵĞ ƚŽ ƐĐƌƵƟŶŝnjĞ ƐƚĂī ĂŵŽŶŐ ƚŚŽƵƐĂŶĚƐ͍ EĞĞĚ ŝŶƚĞƌŶĂƟŽŶĂů ƐƚĂī Ăƚ ĂŶ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚ͍ tĞ ĂƌĞ Ă ŵĂŶƉŽǁĞƌ ĂŐĞŶĐLJ ǁŚŽ ŚĞĂĚͲŚƵŶƚ ƚŚĞ ƐƚĂī ĨƌŽŵ ĂŶLJ ƉĂƌƚ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ǁŽƌůĚ͊ tĞ ƐĐƌĞĞŶ ƚŚĞ ĂƉƉůŝĐĂŶƚƐ ƐĞǀĞƌĂůůLJ ƚŽ ĞŶƐƵƌĞ ƚŚĂƚ LJŽƵ ŐĞƚ ŽŶůLJ ƚŚĞ ďĞƐƚ ŝƐĐŽǀĞƌ ǁŚLJ ƚŽƉ ĞŵƉůŽLJĞƌƐ ƉƌĞĨĞƌ ƵƐ ĨŽƌ ƐƚĂĸŶŐ͊

Hurry and call this number now!

95967902 UNIVERSAL SCRAP BUYERS AT AMAZING PRICES Convert ANY type of Scrap into Money by selling us the scrap Great prices are guaranteed for our clients!

Call this number now for urgent response -

96059470 *Kindly note that the scrap should be 50 tons onwards

FOR SALE 5 Seater sofa with cushions Center table and 2 side tables in excellent condition for immediate sale.

Contact: 96027403 Shop for sale or rent at Ruwi City.

Contact: 99103077 Shop for sale in Sohar- Office purpose in the main centre of Sohar Contact – 99437086 Muscat hill luxury 4 bedroom apartment 209 sq. meters under construction for sale for RO 15000. only 10% paid. Balance in easy installment.

Expected completion in Jan 17. Contact: 98083217 Beauty Salon for sale in Azaiba prime location behind Al fardan building. With sponsor and 1 staff and 1 ready visa clearance.

Contact: 95318629 Used Fabrication machinery for sale : Fabrication machinery and tools in excellent condition for immediate sale. Contact 94652485/ 99273774/ 99202278 Shop for sale in CBD area prime location G. Floor + mezzanine low rent.

Contact: 90112434 Used air condition.

Contact : 97093793 Building material shop for sale at Misfah near Oman Cement factory.

Contact : 99617464 / 95961577 Ice Cream & juices shop in Ruwi good location for sale suitable for beauty parlor also.

Contact: 92150455 Computer training centre for sale. contact 94412557 Ladies parlor for sale at Ansab.

Contact: 98806430 For sale land in Amerat 3000 Sq.mt with petrol pump permission.

Contact 99323957 / 92702891

SITUATION WANTM.V. FOR SALE 40 Feet Atlas Trailor 2010.

Contact: 99454425

CLASSY, CREATIVE AND AFFORDABLE INTERIOR DESIGN 'Ğƚ ĐƵƐƚŽŵŝnjĞĚ͕ &ŝƫŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ƵŶŝƋƵĞ ŝŶƚĞƌŝŽƌ ĚĞƐŝŐŶƐ ŵĂĚĞ ĨƌŽŵ ƐĐƌĂƚĐŚ͘ Our professionals give YOU: ͻ ƵƚŽ ĂĚ >ĂLJŽƵƚ ͻ D W ƌĂǁŝŶŐƐ ͻ Ϯ ĂŶĚ ϯ ĚƌĂǁŝŶŐ ͻ /ŶŶŽǀĂƟǀĞ ŽŶĐĞƉƚ ĞƐŝŐŶ Hurry now and call this number

91494149 ĨŽƌ ĂŶ ĞdžĐůƵƐŝǀĞ ůŝŵŝƚĞĚͲƟŵĞ ŽīĞƌ ĚŝƐĐŽƵŶƚ͊​͊​͊

ACC. AVAILABLE Room for rent available in a flat for Executive bachelor at Azaiba behind AL Meera Market with attached bath with cot & A/c, rent RO 175/- per month including water & Electricity.

Contact 96404166 / 97433992 Two bed rooms with 2 toilets and sharing, Kitchen available near Al Falaj hotel. Contact: 90269652 Large room furnished sep / entrance Wadi Kabir. Contact: 99336206 Furnished room available in Ruwi for bachelor. Contact: 93086584 2BHK available for office Ghubra.

Contact: 99269751

GOOD NEWS

Single exclusive room available for Executive bachelor furnished separate toilet, kitchen sharing Wadi Kabir behind Golden Oasis hotel.

Contact: 99335145

Rashid Said Salmeen Al Saeedi & his Son for the sale Iron & Scrap ASSO Company which is recorded under the commercial register in directorate general for trade industry number 1120940 is going to change its name to Mortafaat al Haweel Al Jadeeda for Trad ASSO Company .

This is to inform anybody who concerns about that.

Single room, bath Darsait R.O 140/-.

Contact: 93289652 Sharing accommodation for Indian family Ruwi high street.

Contact : 99895616 A big room in available near Hamriya R/A for Muslim couple / small family / Executive bachelor rent 150/- per month including W+ E. Contact: 99495131 Accommodation available for indian executive bachelor’s (no kitchen).RO:125 including water and electricity Contact no. .. 98145825, 98949724

SITUATION WANTM.V. FOR SALE Toyota YARIS. Model 2008. KM 69000. Expat driven, All services at Toyota. Very clean. Rate: 2900.

Contact 99445675.

Lexus GX 460, 2013.

Contact : 99336093

MANPOWER

For sale BMW 730 Li, 2008 model, 3000cc, maroon colour with beige interiors, 14500KMS, serviced at dealer, single Owner driven, R.O 5500. Contact: 95731861 /92265958

Mitsubishi 10 ton Truck 2006 model company body, registration valid till May 2016 for sale.

Contact: 95150329

RC Girl (Trissur) 28, 152 cm slim (middle class) MBA, working in Muscat seeking suitable alliance.

Contact: 93867447 A respectable Hindu kapu( Naidu) family from Vijayawada A- P- India invites alliances for their daughter 25 years old B.teh computer science father working in Oman.

Contact: 95097913, 99744870 Email: sarathbabureddi@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTM.V. FOR SALE

Nissan Altima 2005 automatic.

Contact: 99454425

MATRIMONIAL RC, Keralite ( Kottayam) male, 27 yrs, Civil Engineer, working in Muscat from decent family looking for suitable alliance.

Contact : 95035953

31 years RC boy, M. Com MBA - working in Sohar - Seeks alliance from Christian families - Contact 94219830 Leading manpower agency to hire Recruiter from India housemaids.

Contact: 99226093, Email: fesalwardi48@gmail.com

Seeking alliance for our son from Muslim families. Interested families Contact: 99889590

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

NOTICE

Genuine Ayurvedic treatments & massage, Ayurvedic clinic at Al Khuwair. Contact: 24478618 / 97263637 / 93309131 FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 99250777, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133. For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit:www.islamfact.com Ayurvedic Treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis , IDEAL CARE Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street, Azaiba Contact: 99639695 / 98342990 Ayurvedic massage backache, joint pain, neck pain etc. #98254909 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

Al Mazayaa Al Motaleqa for Trad & Cont joint company which is recorded under the commercial register number 1050158 in the treading & industry Al Batinah is going to change its legaly shape from Al Mazayaa Al Motaleqa for Trad & Cont joint company to Al Mazayaa Al Motaleqa for Trad & Cont ASSO company And in accordance with Article 13 of the Commercial Companies Law No. 4/74. And change name to Al Mazayaa Al Motaleqa for Trad ASSO Company. This is to inform anybody who concerns about that to 2 months from the date publishing this advertising

LOST Mataz Jamal Aldin has lost Czech Passport No. 35411314. Finder please handover to ROP Mohammad Ayub has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. E 1663620 .

Finder please handover to ROP

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T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Part Time Accounting, Accounts Finalization, Audit Preparation, Internal Audit, Accounting System for New Companies, #96975454, email :ibfc.gcc@gmail.com Indian female B.Com Graduate 2 years Oman experience in tally ERP 9 seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 95186652 SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH 13yrs experience, 6 yrs Oman in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, capable of handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement. NOC Available. Call+968-98932752, mail:jjohnmuscat@hotmail.com

ADMIN Omani Receptionist required receptionist, well presented with excellent communications skills and telephone manner, fluent in Arabic and English required for Ruwi office. Candidates should be familiar with MS English and Arabic office suite. Send CV and covering email to mj-co@omantel.net.om

B.Com (Indian Male) with 5 years experience (2 years GCC) in Accounts & Audit field. # 95584531 razikthumbe@gmail.com Indian male, 34 years MBA finance, having 9 years experience, looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa. Contact: 92914869 Email: noblev1982@gmail.com

ACCOUNTANT Wanted Accountant for an insurance brokerage office. Interested please send CV on fax: 24601729

BEAUTICIAN Urgently required Gulf experienced Beautician for a well known parlor in Muscat. Send the details to 1974ambi@gmail.com or contact 0096896789862 Urgently required experienced Beautician. Contact 96616731 or send CV to pbm.ibra@gmail.com

CATERING Cooks & helpers for café.

Contact: 95529970 Restaurant Staff urgently required Tandoor roti maker, waiter/ helper required in restaurant in Saham.

Contact : 98029701 / 95821905 Required Catering Supervisor, Chef, Asst. Cook & Chapathi makers for a catering Company in interior area. Apply with NOC. SMS : 99242984

DESIGNER Required Graphic Designer (minimum 2 years experience) Client Service Executive with Omani license (minimum 2 years experience) visa available. Contact: 96727631 send CV to dollydhian@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELP Required one Waiter cum house boy for a Royal Omani family in Al Khoudh. 2 to 3 years experience candidates should send their CV on fax no 24811352 or contact Mr. Tauqir Ahmed on GMS no 92174983

DRAUGHTSMAN A leading Construction Company in Muscat urgently requires Draughtsman (Civil).

Send CV : hr.azatllc@gmail.com or call 99344279

DRIVER Required heavy duty truck driver holding Omani driving license w/ 5 years experience please Contact 92001111 Driver with Oman driving licence needed. Visa available.

Contact 94288863 Looking for an experienced house driver for an Omani family. Interested candidates may Contact: 96203333

ENGINEER/TECH/MECH Urgently Required: MEP EngineerDegree holder and with 7 years experience in building construction, MUST have NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com Biomedical Engineer is required, preferably with Oman exp.

Contact: 99337840 Reputed metal fabrication company seeks fabrication supervisor, structural steel fabricator, Machine maintenance Technician and Electrician.

Contact: 99102383 Email: hr@khancogroup.com

ENGINEER/TECH/MECH

MEDICAL

Urgently required a Indian Diploma Civil Engineer with 1-2 years of experience and should valid G.C.C driving license.

Email: smtcoman@gmail.com

Wanted a Lab Technician with valid M.O.H license and N.O.C to work in a polyclinic. Salary R.O 450/- per month (package).Contact: 96493058 (2 pm to 4 pm).

Email: ap_sdsudhi@yahoo.com

A Mechanical Engineer with salesmanship experience of 5 years & above preferable with Oman drivers license and NOC. Please forward your CV to almaadhi.trd@gmail.com

EDUCATION A leading institution in Muscat requires a Teacher for Indian Classical Dance. The candidate should be well qualified and experienced. Send your resume to dance.oman@gmail.com A private School looking for an English teacher, preferable (Philipino - Jordanian) Nationality for more information. Contact: 98982088 Post Graduate researcher required.

Contact 99229700 A well – known private School require English, Mathematics, Science, Computer and KG Teachers. Contact: 96910649 Email: staffing.oman@gmail.com

MANAGER/SUP An Omani Co. located at Muscat start a new workshop with three divisions: Steel, Carpentry and Aluminum and looking for experts Supervisor and Foremen. The candidate must have minimum 10 yrs. experience and GCC driving license. Send C.V to kwk585@gmail.com A 10 yrs successful steel workshop with 25 staff members, looking for an experienced Manager who has to lead successfully, control overall expenditures & deliver more opportunities to the Workshop. Successful candidate will be paid as percentage of monthly workshop revenue.

Contact: 97080700 General Foreman. Required Foreman (MEP) with 4 to 5 years experience for maintenance of building.

Having valid Omani driving license.

Contact: 94652485 E-mail: realconsco@gmail.com Required Sales Manager for a hotel supply company with minimum 5 years experience. # 92035162

MEDICAL Urgently needed female Dermatologist with minimum 5 yrs experience. Send CV : elixirhealthcenter@yahoo.com P.S. details of salary and benefits will be sent after submitting the CV Looking for pharmacist with a valid MOH license to work in Bidbid. Send CV to abumustafaclinic@gmail.com Required urgently General Physician Gynecology, Pharmacist, LAB Technicians staff nurse.

Contact: 95133572 Email: kunoozghala@gmail.com Wanted Nurse for dental centre in Mawaleh South & Qurum.

Contact 93431024, Email : drasyanaseem@gmail.com Required Pharmacies with license, needed for clinic in Al Khoudh , Contact :+968 97696502 , mail CV to towershr70@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS

Indian female 28 years M.Com, Accountant having 6 years experience in Accounts, finalization, Tally currently on visit visa.

Contact : 95595083 Email: merlinfernandes16@yahoo.in Part time accountant, senior accountant, doing all type of accounting works, up to finalization. contact.95254864

Required Salesman, Store keeper, Private driver, preferably with good experience and communication skills. Contact: 91408759 Email: hanaa.alritaj@gmail.com

Indian male 23 yrs B.com having 3 yrs accounts exp in India looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa.#:94131842 / 93516968, Email: jithujithin05@gmail.com

A leading Construction Company in Muscat urgently requires the following candidates: - 1) Electromechanical Supervisors 2) Electrical Foreman 3) Plumbing foreman 4) Electricians 5) Plumbers.

Send CV : hr.azatllc@gmail.com or call 99344279

Part time Accountant, up to finalization, looking for job after 5 pm (location prefer – MSQ to AL Hail).

Contact: 95694737

Building material Salesman, Electrician cum Plumber & C.C.T.V Technician. Contact: 99383044

SALES / MARKETING Wanted Sales man with valid Oman driving license for an electrical trading company.

Email: amuloman@omantel.net.om Required Graduate with Omani driving license preferably Indian willing to travel outside Muscat.

Contact: 99454425 Required Salesman, Tailor & Barber. Contact: 96964767 Required experienced Sales & Marketing Executive for sports club. Preference will be given who has experience in Oman and valid driving license. Please send your CV to dasanthas1@gmail.com or saud7kh7@gmail.com Sales Incharge 5 years experience (Oman) language English, Arabic.

Contact: 24566813 Email: hammadhassan5786@gmail.com Sales man (Dairy) 2 years exp as a Sales man with FMCG in GCC , Location Muscat, Barka, Khaboura , Ibri, Izki & Al Kamil, key skills Salesman (Dairy) & Sales (Dairy) / business development. Contact: Ahmed Al Salami 96929227 Telephone: 26940215 Fax: 24811565 Email: ahmed.alsalmiy@unikai.com Looking for a Staff has experience in Oman in real estate and real estate valuation. Interested Contact: mobile: 99109094 Email: aburashid94dd@gmail.com Marketing Manager with Oman experience & driving license.

Contact: 95766844 Looking for qualified, good communication and computer skills candidate with experience for position of : Sales Manager to work in high-end window tinting business. Minimum academic requirements: bachelor’s degree and own a driving license.

Kindly email your CV to abdullah.alhinai86@gmail.com Required experienced Sales / Marketing Executives having light license. Send your CV ocean@omantel.net.om

SEC/OFFICE

ACCA finalist, Recent B.Com Graduate, Indian female, looking for full time employment in Accounting and Audit. +968 96964379, sangeethaumesh5@gmail.com Accounting B.Com male Diploma in computerized professional Accounting, professional & manual accounting, 25 yrs, Indian, 25 yrs, Keralite, India. Contact: 0091 9746838659 Email: jijesh567@gmail.com Finance Manager 26 years experience including 22 years Oman with NOC. # 91302906 / 91335205 Accountant Indian female on visit visa, degree B.Com exp Tally ERP-9 finalization of Accounts, Tax Accounting, Stock maintenance, pay roll, etc. # 91551164 / 91175456, mk.jothipriya@gmail.com Chief Accountant, 12 years Oman experience looking for suitable position. Contact: 99513082 Accountant with 8 years U.A.E experience, on visit visa, looking for a job. Contact : 96166512 Senior Accountant 10 years experience, looking for accounts parttime works and finalization works.

Contact: 96247295 Accountant 7 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. #97712084 Indian male, 27years, MCom, having 2years experience in Accounts looking for suitable position.

Presently on visit visa. #93455055 gibingeorge88@gmail.com 25 yrs female Indian with B.Com MBA looking out for a job in finance / marketing / HR field with a work experience of 1 year, 3 months at Bank Muscat & 7 months at India.

Contact: 94657403 / 95537261 Jordanian Accountant (ACPA) with more than 15 yrs experience in Oman (Accounts, Purchase & finance.

Contact: 92881223 Email: kamal_sarhan@yahoo.com

ARCHITECT Sr. Architect male 5 yrs exp having NOC looking for suitable position.

Contact: 91546108 Email: morshed_arch@yahoo.com Senior Architect, Indian male 15yrs exp. having DL& NOC, Looking for suitable position.

Contact: 97239313 Email: abdul_muq2000@yahoo.co.uk

SITUATION WANTED ADMIN Experienced Manager in HR, Administration and Finance. More than 10 years gulf experience including four years in Oman. Having Oman Driving License and NOC Contact 93264005

Housemaid (exp 20 years) looking for English, family.

Contact: 99564133 / 96534195

Indian female 24 years BE Electronics now in Oman visiting visa searching job for any Administrative Sectors telecommunicating, banking, teaching. Contact: 95935867 / 99536948 Email: anjujose011@gmail.com

Indian Civil Auto cad Draftsman looking suitable placement 5 years experience. Contact: 97465102

Indian male BBA Graduate 12 years experience in Administration level 15 months exp in Oman having NOC available looking for suitable placement. Contact : 91458388 Indian Female MBA, 3 years experience in Admin MIS, family Visa.

Contact 98234427, jkjsmith01@gmail.com Indian male 25 years MBA (HR) Now in Oman visiting visa searching job for Administration, HR Customer relation. Contact: 90196322 / 91049868 Email: nithinvarghese19@gmail.com Filipina, 10 yrs experience in Fashion Retail, Shipment, Logistics, Inventory, Warehouse Control and Store Management is seeking employment. Call +971565833126 or 97728418.

14 years of gulf experience in HR / Admin & logistics fluent in Arabic / English with D/L looking for suitable position. Contact: 95824598 Indian 17 yrs experience in Admin and have knowledge in Accounting seeks job. Have driving license and release. Contact : 99573353

DRIVER Light driver looking for job.

Contact: 93985153 Pakistani light vehicle driver having 2 yrs exp. Contact: 96105925 Light driver looking for full time job.

Contact: 95154610 4 years exp driver need a job.

Contact: 94208089 Pakistani driver with car.

Contact: 91248202 Driver looking for job.

Contact 92303744 Light driver Pakistani age 24 years.

Contact: 97106232 Indian driver with experience in Oman. Contact: 96255558 Looking for driver job.Contact 93650209 Bangladesh 24 years, 2 years experience. Contact: 97806144 Light driver with car Hyundai Accent 2016. Contact : 94039796 Bangladeshi light driver (AG) 48) expe, 14 years, need job & visa have release paper transpire.

Contact 99165961

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

DRAUGHTSMAN

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian diploma Civil Eng, 2 yrs Infrastructure Projects (4G, Towers, substation) landscaping & Auto CAD. Contact: 94756183 Email: indianexpat1@gmail.com Electrical Engineer (B.E) with 5 years experience (3 yrs in Gulf) NOC available. Contact: 92119851 Email: mayurdevadiga@gmail.com Resident Engineer B.E civil 25 years exp 12 yrs in Architecture consultancy having Oman Dubai D/L NOC available. Contact: 95732453 Email: milindj951@gmail.com Civil Engineer B.Sc -6 years experience with constructions companies - 1 years in Oman - qualified as Site Engineer & Planning Engineer.

Contact+968-94682217 B.E in Mechanical post Graduation Diploma in piping Engineering.

Contact : 94786570 Email: asim.hajwani6@gmail.com Automobile Engnr Indian with 7 yrs experience 2 yrs Toyota and 5 yrs Jaguar corporate experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact immediately: 93709706 currently on visit visa for 10 days only Civil Engineer Pakistani 12+2 years Oman experience D/L required placement. Contact: 94392616 Building site supervisor, since March 2010 in Oman with Omani D/L looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 93061107 Mechanical Engineer (UK ) 28 years, male looking for suitable placement with valid Oman driving license having 3.5 years experience in Oman NOC available. Contact 968 97612297 immediate availability.

Email: ymirza11@caledonian.ac.uk Mechatronics (Electrical, Mechanical) Engineer, 3 years of experience. Contact: 91234024 Email: ammar.r.elerris@gmail.com Indian male 29, having 7 years exp in construction field& Auto Cad in Oman. Having valid driving license.

Fluent in English & Arabic. Looking for suitable job in reputed firm.

Contact - 99650569 BE (Civil) Indian male with 20 years experience with reputed consultancy companies & working for one of the prestigious project of Muscat since 2008 seeks suitable position.

Contact: 92511428, Email: manoj_t2000@yahoo.com Mechanical Engineer, 24 having knowledge in HVAC looking for suitable placement. Contact: 95434381 Email: shuhaibusman313@gmail. com

Driver. Contact: 95084826 Pakistani male light vehicle driver looking for job. Contact: 96474528 Driver with car. Contact :91452930

Sir Lankan Secretary with experience in recruitment field.

Contact: 92809528

DOMESTIC HELP

Wanted driver.

Contact 95112461

Agriculture Engineer Egyptian in Oman available till 10th Oct experience 5 years. Contact: 90155723 Electrical and Electronics Engineer with one year experience and GCC licence holder seeking a job mail – shyjalpk@gmail.com

T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ENGG. / TECH./MECH.

MISCELLANEOUS

Indian Mechanical Engineer, 30, having 8yrs of UAE Sales/Business Development. experience in Electromechanical and Irrigation sectors. Contact no- +971558763220 email id-sangowri@outlook.com Sudanese Telecom Engineer 5 years experience in Oman.

Contact: 93391008 Young Electrical Engineer looking for suitable placement. Having specialization in electronics.

Contact 99227861 Project Manager (Interior fitouts décor & MEP) B.E. Arch having 8 years experience looking for a suitable position in a reputed company.

Local release is available.

Contact: 91528851 M.Tech BE civil 9 yrs experience Project Management Indian male (34 yrs) with NOC seeks suitable placement in construction industry.

Contact : 99156291 / 95281545/ 00919579666999 (Whatsapp) Email: kashidss@gmail.com HSE Engineer (Indian, 26 yrs), B.Tech Mechanical, Nebosh, 5 yrs experience in oil & gas construction.

Contact 94616721 B.E Arch with 8 years experience as 2 Project Manager in Interior fitouts décor & MEP works looking for suitable. Local release is available.

Contact: 91528851 Indian male diploma in Civil Engineering with 20 years experience in interior fitout with valid driving license NOC and local release available. Contact: 98048410 Professional Civil Engineer 25 yrs experience with N.O.C Management and Supervision with D/L. Contact: 97290338 Bangladeshi Diploma Civil Engineer 3 years experience in Bangladesh 2 years in Oman.

Contact: 93796905 / 97319361 Civil Engineer, Indian M 29 5yrs exp. having DL & NOC Looking for suitable position. Contact: 94576233 Email: suhailmullah@gmail.com Degree Engineer Civil, 6 years experience Oman D/L, N.O.C available for a suitable position.

Contact: 93523507 / 95961336 Indian male BE civil project Engineer 15 years Oman experience in building projects with valid D/L NOC available. Contact: 92178471 BE Electrical Engineer 8 years experience 4 years in Oman with Oman driving license.

Contact 96942032 Civil Engineer (Diploma) seeking for placement. Contact: 95200650 Electrician 3 years experience in Building lines in Oman and other related experience also. NOC available. Stay till 29.09.2015. Contact: 94057129 / 95964419 Email: raheemdadbaloch@hotmail.com Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com C-SWIP 3.1 ASNT level 2 QC Mech.

Engr 5+ yrs exp Indian male 26 seeks placement.

Contact : 91823331 Email: kannasekhar46@gmail.com SUPERVISOR: Indian male site supervisor (AIR CONDITIONING) 25 years of experience with valid Oman Driving lic Contact: 97498809, 93391910 Email: hilariankj@gmail.com Engineer with 3 yrs experience in Indian in MEP, HVAC& mechanical maintained field on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 99191535 Email: fareed029@gmail.com Btech computer science graduate 2015 passout.. Android application marketing.. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Contact 91024385 Indian male BE Mechanical currently on 2 yrs free visa with NOC & local release. Looking for suitable job in Muscat. Contact – 90296975 / ali.syedausaf@gmail.com Indian BE (MECH) aviation BE degree diploma in material quality management 17 years Navy aviation 13 years construction purchase stores professional on visit.

Contact: 90205082 /98796982 *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

HOSPITALITY Dynamic result oriented hospitality professional with 20 years of international exp. MBA in Hotel Management, specializing in Hotel/Restaurant start ups, concepts & Franchise development with proven records.

Seeking for Challenging positions in reputed groups as GM/COO/CEO/ Business Head. (NOC available) Contact : 96059470

IT Oracle ADF Developer, Msc (IT), 2 yrs of Experience in Software Development (Oracle ADF, sql, pl/sql), Oracle OCA & SQL Expert, Currently on visit visa. # +968 93755858 / 92141644 Email : shiralkarmuzammil@yahoo.com IT Engineer, MBA, PMP trained, having Omani driver license, 18+ years of experience in software industry, looking for a challenging positing. Contact: 91244967 Net working Technical with driving license NOC having 2 years experience in data and telephone structured cabling epabx and CCTV installing looking for suitable.

Contact: 96027516 Indian male 25 years MCA, CCNA Certified MCSE2012 having 16 months experience in network and system administration looking for suitable placement. Contact 97703253 / 92365310 Email: albinmperakkattu@gmail.com Software Engineer, 6 yrs exp in software projects & development (Java,PL/SQL Unix) on visit visa.

Contact: 99487493 Indian male, 29 yrs, B. Eng in CS, CCNP, JNCIA, MCSA, MCITP, ISO/ IEC27002, 8 yrs exp in IT, Networking and Server support. #98285401 Email: maneshm3@gmail.com CCNA MCITP Network support/ Network technician with 2 yrs experience Indian male having bachelors degree on visit visa.

Contact 93080871, email :sean.f.peters@outlook.com

MEDICAL

MISCELLANEOUS

SALES / MARKETING Filipino (male) 37yrs. old having 8 years experience in operation(shiping&logistics) currently on visit visa looking for a suitable job GSM:97121525 Filipino lady looking for Receptionist Sales girl having good experience in Muscat. NOC will be available ready to join immediately. Contact: 92664896 / 91107941. After October 1st week. Contact: + 639759460269 Indian male more than 8 years experience in UAE in Office , Sales Marketing with good computer skills having driving license looking for suitable placement.

Contact : 99369081 Email: shazulashraf60@gmail.com Indian male, U.K Post Graduate M.A, MBA, 3 years Experience, looking position within Marketing, Branding, Business Development & PR. Contact: greetings111@hotmail.com BBA Graduate with 3 years experience in Sales & Marketing valid Omani D/L looking for job.

Contact: 97378073 Email: samaanmohammed@gmail.com Indian male MBA having 4 yrs Gulf experience in logistics and Counter Sales currently on visit visa and looking for suitable job.

Contact 96695541 Looking for Driver & Salesman vacancy 10 years Oman experience Oman license holding.

Contact 98234893 Indian male 30 yrs, B. Sc food science and quality control 7 years experience in G.C.C 3 years experience in laboratory related jobs, valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 93405643

CCNP Network Professional with 6 years experience having Bachelors degree on visit visa looking for suitable job. GSM: 96760618 Email: varghese.manthara@gmail.com Indian male with 18 years of Indian and Overseas experience in hospitality industry, with excellent cooking, operational, managerial and communication skills seeking a suitable job from reputed groups and organizations. On a visit visa.

Contact: 95363751 31 year Indian male PG in HR , with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement. Contact me on 93488914, email-Kaarthickshankar@gmail.com INDIAN MALE , MBA. Having 10+ years experience as Automotives Sales Manager .Worked with M/s TALWAR AUTO GARAGES PVT LTD India’s Largest Selling Dealer for VOLVO EICHER commercial vehicles .Seeking for suitable Job in Oman.

Contact no: 98045482 Email: dmstalwar@gmail.com 26, Male, Indian, BBA (Finance), MBA(HR), Looking for suitable placement in Finance/HR/Marketing. Contact immediately. Contact 98176105, nruknaddin@outlook.com Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, now on Visit Visa ,looking for suitable position. Contact: 90196235 29 years Indian female (MBAFinance) with 4 yrs experience in Accounts, seeking suitable placement in Accounts/Admin/HR. NOC available. Contact:96141283 ACCOUNTANT: Indian male 25 having 4years experience in accounting & having well knowledge in tally. Contact:968 094535881, 0091 9037622048.

Email: vishnuraj889@gmail.com

Wanted salesman job, with driving license. Have exp. ins selling goods, experience in shops special experience in car parts seeking any job related to selling. Contact: 94162434

Well experienced management finance specialist having 18 years experience available for placement.

Contact.95602518

Indian male Nurse, prometric passed seeks suitable placement.

Contact 97284508I

Indian male 35 years BBM, diploma in A/C, 5 years experience as Sales Executive in Oman with valid D/L and NOC seeking suitable placement in Muscat area. Contact : 92683606 Email: abhi.abrahm09@gmail.com

23, Male, ACCA Affiliate, OBU Bsc, 2.5 years of experience in audit and finance in Big 6 Firms, Looking for permanent placement in similar field. Release NOC available. Contact: #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com

33 years, Indian male Dentist having 7 years of experience with MOH license is seeking suitable placement. Contact: 91559265 Email: praveengp_82@yahoo.com

MBA 15 years experience in Sales & Marketing in telecom, FMCG, presently in India C/O Saif Kazi.

Contact : 99625957 Email Id: a_kazi123@yahoo.co.in

22, Male, Indian, BBA (Marketing),1 year experience in India, Looking for suitable placement in Sales and Marketing. #91897046, azzamsiddique1@gmail.com

Indian male 25 yrs BBM Graduate 3 yrs of experience Sales / Marketing in Oman looking in suitable placement. Contact : 93185316 Email: karsh794@gmail.com

Indian Male,27,ACCA Part Qualified,B.COM with 7+ yrs exp in receivables and credit control in Oman looking for suitable placements. NOC available.

Contact 9657 4343.

An Indian female GNM Nurse having 10 yrs experience in Indian with Oman MOH license seeking suitable placement currently in Oman.

Contact: 97895004 Email: sandhyamol26@gmail.com

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Procurement Manager: Indian male (B.Com) having 6 more years of purchasing experience in civil construction & MEP sector is looking for a suitable position(NOC available).

GSM:97700967 Project Manager (B.E. Arch) in Interior décor fit outs & MEP having 8 years experience looking for a suitable post in a reputed firm. NOC is available. Contact: 91528851 Sudanese procurement Manager three years experience in Oman.

Contact: 93391008 Senior Manager Indian, 30 years in FMCG Business in Oman looking for better opportunity at management level. Contact 99231513

MISCELLANEOUS Omani female Arabic and English speaking searching for job.

Contact 92387170

SECRETARIAL & OFIC. Indian male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin, Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills.

Having Driving license and NOC available, looking for suitable placement. Contact 95149624

Egyptian very good marketing and sales skills experience 10 years in tourism. Contact : 90155723

MISCELLANEOUS 50 years Indian male 15yrs experience as Manager in Steel and paper Plant seeking suitable placement.

Kindly contact me on +91 9840943638 Chartered Accountant, Indian male, 25, two years experience, on visit visa. Staying with parents. Also has B.com+computer Application.

Contact: 24492638/98164467. shyamal008@gmail.com

Indian Female, Science Graduate, 3 years Experience in Teaching back home. Looking for a suitable job opportunity as a teacher, in Schools in Muscat Region. Contact : 96431456 / 95704814 Indian Male, 25, Chartered Accountant, working with ICICI Bank India.

On a Visit Visa in Oman. Staying with parents at Azaiba.

Ph: 24492638.

Email: shyamal008@gmail.com Looking for a suitable job as Jr. Accountant/ Jr. Administration in a reputed company. NOC Available.

GSM # 93004738.

Diploma in Civil Engineer. I have 6 year experience in Oman seeking for suitable position Oman. #97415597, email: Nasir.muscat@gmail.com

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, 8 years experience ,Oman driving licence,Noc available. Seek Suitable opportunity.

GSM- 98184170

8+ years experienced senior accountant looking for a better placement. Contact No. +968 92935684.

Email - shabeerkkm@gmail.com.

NOC available.

ACCOUNTANT, Male, 8 years experience, presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license. NOC available, seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854

Indian Male, 38 years, BE and MBA in Marketing from UK seeks suitable placement in the IT industry.

Call 91200413.

Chemical Engineer Indian 2 years of experience in production field Contact: 91247222 Email:sahadpoonchola@gmail.com

Syrian male 3yrs. exp in IT support, Networking, Security systems, Server support, IT sales and marketing.

Valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement. Contact 91033395

Indian male 22yr BBA with LOGISTIC Diploma, exp in tally and data entry seeking in suitable placement.

Contact; 90151739 email shakeeb.mp280gmail.com

Indian female, MBA, 25yrs Having 4yrears of experience in MNC, hands of experiences in recruitment and administration, flexible for any suitable job placements currently in visting visa.

Contact Tel : 98864639 Email : neethuvijayan06@gmail.com

Mechanical Draftsman, Indian male 27, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering having 7 years of experience in Auto CAD looking for a suitable placement. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708 E-mail : mohammednazeer07@gmail.com

Indian Male, 26 Yrs, Business Management, 6 years in Oman.

Knowledge of MS Office and Arabic Language. Seeks suitable position.

Contact 93931935 Indian Mechanical Engineer, 30, having 8yrs of UAE Sales/Business Development. experience in Electromechanical and Irrigation sectors. Contact no- +971558763220 email id-sangowri@outlook.com Indian male, with finance and Law degree, having more than 25 years of experience in Finance/ Accounts / Audit (5 years of Oman experience) seeks suitable placement. NOC available. Contact: 98421619.

E-mail: talemadhamu@yahoo.com.

Indian male Executive Secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. Contact : 99514286 Pakistan Male: 24 years,M.Com Finance having 2.5 year experience as a accountant & marketing executive looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 97670816, E.mail: naeem.ahsan68@gmail.com Indian female with MBA in finance seeking immediate placement.

Contact: 968-93316493 Civil Engineer B.Sc -6 years experience with constructions companies - 1 years in Oman - qualified as Site Engineer & Planning Engineer .

Contact+968-94682217 ACCOUNTANT: Indian male 25 having 4 years experience in accounting & having well knowledge in tally.

Contact:968094535881, 0091 9037622048, Email: vishnuraj889@gmail.com 31 year Indian male PG in HR ,with 5 yrs Professional experience in HR in Construction Oil & Gas Oman seeking for a suitable placement. Kindly contact me on 93488914, emailKaarthickshankar@gmail.com Sudanese/26/Bsc Computer Science /3 years exp/skills Excellent knowledge in operating systems and maintaining computers Java Programmer Web Developer Linux SMS solutions Android developer/ email khalid.omx@gmail.com/contact no 944958080 and 99758186.

Civil Autocad Draughtsman part time work for job mob :96023726 Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA, MCSA,MCSE, 2.5 yrs + exp. in IT support, networking and server support valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532 Indian B.E Computer Science graduate 2012 passout. 1 .5 yrs exp. in Accounting. Having good communication skills and mindset to work in a team. Having NIIT certificate in Diploma in Java Technology. # 97767894 Email: jinsonjacobjohn@gmail.com Indian male 24 YEARS, B.Tech (Electrical & Electronics), having 2 yrs. exp as Electrical Site Engineer. Done IOSH & NEBOSH- IGC certifications, seeking for suitable placement in any related industries.

Contact 98045482, Email: mastanshaik1008@gmail.com Indian male, 24 years, HSE Engineer having 2 years of Indian experience.

Done IOSH & NEBOSH- IGC certifications, seeking for suitable placement in any related industries.

Contact 98045482 27, male, ACCA finalist, have professional experience up to finalization of Accounts, Statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & Oracle Software, have 3.5 years experience in accounts till finalization, seeking for permanent replacement ,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com M. Tech VLSI design, B. tech Electronics and instrumentation, Indian female,3 years teaching experience for graduation level students, seeking suitable placements .

Ph:00968 92904155. email-achusooraj@gmail.com

ACCA Affiliate, OBU Degree, 2.5 years experience in audit and finance in Big6 firm, Looking for permanent placement. NOC release available. Contact: #95140445, a.saran891@gmail.com B.Tech EEE with 4+ years experience in the field of it, networking, ex-tonics etc. presently working in Amazon India development centre as a content quality associate seeking for suitable jobs in Oman. Contact : +91 9940514005, 93116402 email: mail2nbn@gmail.com MBA Finance with more than five years of experience in Finance & Accounts including GCC, looking for a suitable opening. Having UAE driving license. Contact no..91391802.

Senior Accountant. 8 Years experience. NOC available. Oman driving license. Seek suitable opportunity.

GSM- 98184170 B.E Mechanical Engineer with 2 years’ experience in HVAC field on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 93442296 Email Id: sal201091@gmail.com.

MBA (F) B.COM Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for full or part time job. Presently on family visit visa.

Contact: - 96259171. Email: bhumicapandya@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA, Talented management expert having 6 year experience at U.A.E, India and Oman in luxury goods and Retail. Seeking suitable openings in related or same field. Contact:92700670 Email: jobcareer44@gmail.com MBA Finance with more than five years of experience in Finance & Accounts including GCC, looking for a suitable opening. Having UAE driving license. Contact no..91391802 Indian 26M, B. Tech Computer Science graduate, 3 years exp in India, looking for suitable job in Muscat.

Contact : 93125669, Email : amritrajGT18@gmail.com Indian Male Nurse with Moh licence & Noc seeking a job with Family Status gsm:95817579.

E.mail:vasudevanv2005@gmail.com Part- Time Accountant, well experience senior accountant ,doing all type of accounting works, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact 98803439 Sudanese/Bsc IT/26/2 years experience/excellent Eng-Arb speaking/ Omani driving license/96387227/ henrykarrar@gmail.com MBA - (F), M.Com, B.COM. Indian female having knowledge of accounts with Tally looking for part time or full time job. Presently on family visa.

Contact- 91892264. mail: yv.dixit@yahoo.com Indian male Accountant, 12 years experience, looking for a full time or part time job, experience in tally also. Contact 98983122 Pakistani, Male, Pak, Exp 14 Years in IT Trainer / Computer Teacher, looking for a better position in Oman, already working in Prestigious Construction Company. # 95983711.

Join.mtmali@gmail.com Indian Male (Diploma in electronics Engineering and CCNA.) having 9 years of experience in Networking, 5 years’ experience in Oman. Looking for a suitable Placement. NOC available. GSM- 93787098, Email –anishktr@gmail.com INDIAN MALE 24 YEARS,B. Tech (Electrical & Electronic).Having 2 years experience as Electrical Site Engineer in Constructions. Done IOSH & NEBOSH- IGC certifications.

Seeking for suitable placement in constructions or in any related industries. Contact no: 98045482, Email: shannu.hse@gmail.com Admin, having 10+ years experience in Admin/HR/Logistics/Time Keeper, in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat.

Contact- 968 94369965 mail - satya1528@gmail.com

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

TOURS

SITUATION WANTED CARGO

SITUATION WANTCARGO

SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

T H U R S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 , 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SIT.WANTED ACCA finalist, Recent B.Com Graduate, Indian Female, looking for full time employment in Accounting and Audit. Contact +96896964379, sangeethaumesh5@gmail.com Admin, having 10+ years experience in Admin/HR/Logistics/Time Keeper, in reputed companies. Presently working in Muscat. Contact- 94369965 ,mail satya1528@gmail.com Indian male . 14 yrs experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel field ( Electrical . Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) N O C available mob : 95 25 36 40 . email = hareeshma24@yahoo.com Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA,MCSA,MCSE, 2.5 yrs + exp. in IT support, networking and server support valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/ Server support. Contact 92607532 ACCA Affiliate, Indian Male, Fresher, looking for full time employment in Tax and Audit.+968 91291520, shahidazeez5@gmail.com Indian Male, 24 years old recently completed M.Tech in Offshore Structures from NIT Calicut, looking for suitable position.

Contact : +91 9833 2485 68, Email: shihabpatel91@gmail.com Diploma in civil engineering having an experience 24years (20years in Oman) experience in Estimator / quantity surveyor looking for a suitable placement, willing to join immediately Contact : 96328687 Indian male B.Eng. in IT,CCNA, MCSA, MCSE, 2yrs + exp. in IT support, networking and server support valid Omani D/L seeking suitable placement in IT/Network/Server support. Contact 92607532 Indian male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel field ( Electrical. Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) N O C available #95253640 . email = hareeshma24@yahoo.com

DRIVING

SITUATION WANTBUSINESS ED

WEBSITE

ME Civil- structural Engineer, 8 Years Structural engineer experience, Looking for Structural Designer, supervisor or site engineer Position. Iranian male. #93696929, Email: mhsaz1359@gmail.com

CLASSES

Indian Male 26 years MCA, MCSE 2012 certified, Microsoft Exchange Server Administration, having 1 year experience in IT/System Administration looking for suitable placement.

Contact Mob : 00968 92745708 Email: nabeelmmkty@gmail.com, Light duty driver, Young and honest.

Can speak Arabic, Hindi and understand English. Release available.

Ph.92854775 / 93487450 Indian female with MBA on visit visa seeking immediate placement.

Contact - 968-93316493

We want regular finance on short term or long term basis from individuals of Omani nationals or expatriates for trading business.

Contact: 99462591 or 93525028

27,male,ACCA finalist, have professional experience upto finalization of accounts, statutory and internal audit, expertise in using tally and focus & oracle software, have 3.5 years experience in accounts till finalization and statutory audit, seeking for permanent replacement ,GSM-97654769,email idabdullah.nooralam@yahoo.com

Want regular financing for profitable small projects. Contact : 92162623

Sudanese male, 31 years, have 3 year Diploma in electrical engineer , 6 year experience in construction and electrical production plant .

Mobile No ; +96894549609

SIT.WANTED

Indian male, B.com, MBA, having 5 years experience (3 years in U.A.E) is currently seeking suitable opportunities within finance/accounts/ admin dept.Contact:93953613, allen.mathew83@gmail.com B.Com graduate, 11 years experience in Accounts, 9 years Oman experience , Oman valid driving license, looking for suitable post.

Mob:92758404 NOC Available.

Indian male 27 years B.E & MS Mechanical Engineer working in Delhi for last 4 years inJcb India pvt. ltd., seeks placement in Oman.

Contact: 93393768 Driver looking for job exp 2 yrs.

Contact: 98522914 Female MBA gold medalist, with computer proficiency, Oman driving license looking for job opportunity in event management companies in Muscat. Ph : 99012949

Required investors for different projects. Contact: 99674870

COMPUTER

We will register LLC trade license for foreign investors and do all actions. Contact: 92833566

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, Indian male,29 years.8 years experience .Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license. NOC available.

Seek suitable opportunity.

GSM: 97705854 Indian Male, 32 yrs, MBA-HR, Trainer & Faculty worked on Omanisation & nationals development activities with 10 yrs of experience seeking suitable job. Contact : 93891401 saiprasad_18@yahoo.com Sudanese 29 male (Bsc computer science,diploma computer engineering), 6 yrs. experience dba oracle plsql , ms sql-server ,ms visual studio vba,network Omani Driver licence language English, Arabic Tel: 91415886 Piping Design Engineer, Indian male 27, looking for suitable placement in Piping Design & Engineering. Having 7 years of experience in AutoCAD. Also familiar with PDMS (11.6 Version),CAESAR ll. Contact : 97351786 / 96143708/97357143

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. #24793614/ 99314807

Split & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact: 96236476

Window & split unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 93769089 / 95323517

SIT.WANTED

Pest Control Gulfa Intl .LLC. Contact: 92326955

Two year experience in Oman, experience in sales, purchase and system admin, Having GCC license.

Contact number 97475860, Yadhukrishnan08@gmail.com

Indian Male 22 Years , Graduation In Electronics Seeking Jobs In Supervisory , Sales & Sales Co-ordination Fields , Good Communication Skill Contact 96141317, E-mail: akhilek5@gmail.com

Split & widow unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080

Air condition maintenance installation window AC, split a/c, ducted AC and package type units.

Contact: 98667326

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

Indian female, 24yrs, M.COM (Accounts) having 3 yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeking Suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available.

Contact: 99654913

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Transportation. Contact98505294

Pest Control Treatments, Cockroaches, Ants, Rodents & Termites, Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723/ 99357908

Transportation in Muscat.

Contact: 95530908

Supply fixing Wallpapers, all carpets. #99834373 / 6642500

Transportation for saloon car& delivery van. Contact : 95530908

One stop shop business services : Public Relation (PRO) formation new companies, LLC companies, Investor visa, business setup, prepare businesses & companies accounts, legal services, representing you and your company. Contact Saleh: 96723485

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation. Contact 99508282 Transportation available.

Contact -955 70 429

Window & split unit A.C servicing & maintenance.

Contact: 93769089 / 95323517 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 House shifting & packing.

Contact: 99657644 /98518013 General cleaning & Shampooing. Ocean Center LLC. Contact: 99344723/99357908 Used house & office furniture & electronic items. Contact: 99834373 / 96642500 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & antitermite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. contact 24810137, 99450130 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS99320217 /24788722

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624