Times of Oman - November 8, 2016

TUESDAY

November 8, 2016 8 Safar 1438 AH

FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

To the members of the OCCI at Al Alam Palace, 1990

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ We have to develop and diversify our economic resources in order to lessen dependence on oil, and to secure for our national economy a solid basis from which to face the unstable international economic conditions and fluctuations in the world oil market.

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SAUDI ARABIA, EGYPT

HM receives thanks cables MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia in reply to His Majesty’s condolences cable on the death of Princess Nouf bint Badar bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. In his cable, King Salman expressed his thanks for His Majesty the Sultan’s noble feelings and sincere prayers, praying to Allah the Almighty to rest the deceased’s soul in peace and protect His Majesty against all harms.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has also received a cable of thanks from President Abdel Fattah El Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt in reply to His Majesty’s congratulatory cable on the occasion of the 6th of October Anniversary.

In his cable, President El Sisi expressed his utmost thanks for His Majesty the Sultan’s congratulations. He stressed his keenness to continue supporting the strong relations between the two countries and people and enhancing means of joint cooperation between them in all spheres, praying to Allah the Almighty to grant His Majesty good health and happiness, and the Omani people further progress and welfare.-ONA

Expat visa fee set to raise OMR148m INCREASE IN VISA FEE MEANS

Visa fee hike is likely

Workers in private sector

Domestic workers

1,485,615

to help the Omani

278, 444

OMR148 million extra

government generate additional revenue

Top five categories

Workers

Construction

639, 209

Automobile sector

209,888

Mining and quarry

189,477

amid financial crunch REJIMON K CHIEF REPORTER

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Increased work visa fees could add OMR148 million to government coffers over a twoyear period.

On Sunday, the Ministry of Manpower announced that fees for foreign workers in Oman will be increased by 50 per cent and the new fee structure will come into effect when it is published in the Sultanate’s official gazette.

Omani government figures for October reveal that, currently, there are 1,485,615 expatriate workers in the private sector here,

Hotels and restaurants

99,711

Real estate sector

80,374

(OMR100 increase in visa fee) OMR extra (in millions)

63 21 19 10 8

Source: National Centre for Statistics and Information

excluding domestic workers.

To hire a fresh expatriate worker or to renew the visa for an existing worker, employers will have to pay OMR301 instead of OMR201, after the new ruling comes into effect.

In the aftermath of a severe fall in global oil revenue, the Oman government will receive an extra OMR148 million in fees, should

Graphics

every worker currently listed in the government data renew the visa or be replaced by another foreigner.

Oman’s government posted a budget deficit of OMR4.32 billion ($11.4 billion) in the first eight months of 2016, according to latest official figures.

Tawfiq Al Lawati, a Majlis Al

Shura member, said: “Government doesn’t have any other option as the economic conditions are bad.

However, personally, I feel that this move will have a negative impact as the prices of services and goods will go up eventually when the cost of visa is going up,” the Shura member who is also a member of the economic panel, said.

Cushion budget deficit Ahmed Al Hooti, an OCCI member, said that government has only limited options to cushion the budget deficit due the oil price dip, but they all concerned by the move.

“This will push us to increase the rates for our services, prices for our goods and eventually shoot up inflation. People will feel the pinch,” he said, adding that this move should be reconsidered when the economic condition in Oman improves.

According to government statistics, most expat workers who come to Oman do so to work in the construction and auto industries.

There are 639, 209 expatriate workers in the construction sector, followed by 209,888 workers in the automobile sector. >A5

S P E C I A L PA R T N E R

Lord Astor arrives to boost special bond Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Lord Astor, the UK trade envoy, arrived in Oman yesterday for talks with education, defence and health ministries and to promote the special relationship between Oman and the UK. The Conservative peer and envoy to Oman held talks about training nurses, doctors, and young Omanis as part of the Omanisation programme, as well as discussing energy and defence issues.

The UK government is keen to foster stronger ties with Oman and the GCC, according to the UK

ambassador in Oman, Jonathan Wilks, who welcomed Lord Astor to Oman and was part of the talks.

He said Oman is “one of the most important countries” to the UK in terms of export finance, imports and exports.

Lord Astor added: “We want to strengthen our relationship and ensure that the UK is a partner of choice with Oman. “There are several countries of huge importance to the UK and Oman is one of those. It’s a country I have had a long relationship with and a deep respect for. My wife and I have been out several times.” >A5

Spectra exhibition begins

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TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Omanis to run Majid Al Futtaim’s malls

1

The Mall of Oman, City Centre Sohar and City Centre Sur will now be run

by Omani nationals, a senior official at Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) said. >A5

PAKISTAN

Police raid Karachi religious schools

2

Pakistani police arrested dozens of people in a crackdown on more than 90 seminaries in Karachi, following a series of sectarian shootings in the country’s largest city. >A9

MARKET

Bank Nizwa registers robust growth

3

Bank Nizwa registered an operating profit of OMR666,000 before provision for 9 months ended September 2016, compared to net loss of OMR3,265 for the same period in 2015. >B1

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

OMAN Oman plans farms in Africa to cut food import dependence Move is part of an overall plan to raise contribution of agriculture to gross domestic product to 3.1 per cent by 2020

GAUTAM VISWANATHAN

gautam@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: Oman plans to set up farms in Sudan and Tanzania in order to reduce its dependence on food imports.

“We are also going to do external investments in Tanzania and Sudan,” said Mustafa Al Riyami, coordination and follow-up specialist at the Public Authority for Stores and Food Reserve. “We will have wheat farms and animal farms. This is the plan for the future in order to have food security.”

“The output for these farms will not be the same as in recent

years,” he added. “It will take time for sure, but it is a strategic plan we have in place. It will take at least 15 to 20 years to start producing from these farms.”

“We are not expecting to increase our income from these farms very soon,” Al Riyami continued. “The second thing is that we might invest these crops outside as well. We might sell these to some other countries and we may make money from that.”

“The investment will be from both sides: either to get our own commodities or to invest this outside and get money from it.”

Investing in Africa will see Oman follow a development path taken by China, which has steadily built up massive businesses overseas. The Chinese have invested more than $1.3 trillion overseas since 2005. Oman’s plans to become more secure on the agricultural front are part of the nation’s plans to raise agricultural contribution to 3.1 per cent of the GDP by 2020. It is currently pegged at 0.7 per cent, totalling OMR224 million. As part of Oman’s Vision 2020 plan, an organisation has been set up to invest in food security.

“There is a semi-government company, the Oman Food Investment Holding Company that acts

ON GROWTH PATH: Oman is importing about 60 per cent of its food at present, and the target

is to reduce it to 20 per cent.

as an investor for Oman, both inside and outside the country,” Al Riyami told the Times of Oman.

MAny projects “There are many projects it is working on. One of these is to build a big farm in Buraimi to produce milk and white meat.

I am sure you have heard of the one million date trees project in Oman. It is one of the long-term projects designed to promote food security in Oman.”

Currently, about 60 per cent of the Sultanate’s food products are

imported, but Al Riyami is hopeful that the new wave of agricultural investment will that bring figure down sharply.

“We are importing about 60 per cent of our food right now, but if, and I say if, our targets are met with this investment, this importing will be very less,” he explained.

“Local production will be about 80 per cent and imports will be about 20 per cent.”

Arvind Venkataraman is currently the project manager at Al Arfan Farms, an organic farm located in Seeb. “Growing local

produce will help offset a lot of the costs for purchasing produce, and it’ll also help keep the currency within the country,” he said. “It’ll be rotated in the economy itself, as opposed to having it leave the country. It’ll boost the economy within the country.”

“The quality of food that you get in the market will definitely increase. European produce is supposed to be the best in the market, but it costs about seven to nine rials a kilo to buy. The difference now will be that you can buy that quality for a much lower value.”

Salalah Air’s headquarters inaugurated SALALAH: Salalah Air’s headquarters was opened yesterday under the auspices of Akram bin Hassan Al Marzaa, Director General of the Directorate General of Commerce and Industry in the Governorate of Dhofar in the presence of Marhoon bin Said Al A’mri, Acting Director General of the Directorate General of Tourism at the Governorate of Dhofar and CEO of the Company.

During the event, the attendants were briefed on the company system, organisational structure, the development of the work, the proposed location for operations building, the marketing and commercial proposal received by the company from other countries, as well as the company’s future plans and programmes.

Salalah Air inked a business deal with United Solutions IT to provide integrated solution to achieve requirements for growth.

It also signed an MoU with Safari Golden Company for the operation of Salalah-Bosaso route in the Republic of Somalia, to operate flights starting December 2016.

Salalah Air is a 100 per cent Omani company that was established using an amended model for the charter flights. The company has operation bases in Salalah, Sohar , Duqum and Muscat. -ONA L E G AT U M I N S T I T U T E

AV I AT I O N

Oman Air moves direct London flights to Heathrow Terminal 4 Times News Service MUSCAT: National carrier Oman Air announced on Monday that both of its daily Muscat to London flights will move to Terminal 4 at London Heathrow Airport from January 31, 2017.

Currently, the two daily Oman Air flights operate from Terminals 3 and 4; their presence at just one terminal of one of the world’s busiest airports will further streamline the customer’s journey on one of Oman Air’s flagship routes.

Terminal 4 offers visitors a world-class shopping experience, with retail shops, book stores, electrical outlets, souvenir shops and much more.

Oman Air passengers using Terminal 4 will continue to have usage of the designated lounge providing premium passengers state-of-the-art facilities prior to their flight.

Oman Air’s first service be-

AV I AT I O N

ON THE MOVE: Terminal 4 offers visitors a world-class shop-

ping experience, with retail shops, book stores, electrical outlets, souvenir shops and much more. – Supplied photo

tween Muscat and London was launched in 2007.

It departs Muscat at 14.00 and will now arrive at Heathrow Terminal 4 at 18.20. Return flights will depart from Heathrow Terminal 4 at 20.15 and arrive in Muscat the following morning at 07.35. The second service, launched earlier this year, flies through the night, departing Muscat at 01.25 and arriving at Heathrow Terminal 4 at 06.30.

Return flights depart Heathrow Terminal 4 at 08.25 and arrive in Muscat at 18.55. All timings quoted are local.

Oman Air believes that customer experience is paramount and has an enduring commitment to ensuring they are the airline of choice. Having both daily Oman Air flights departing from Terminal 4 would also help deliver seamless customer experience that Oman Air is known for.

Oman among four most prosperous Arab countries BERLIN: Oman is the fourth most prosperous Arab country according to the World Prosperity Index 2016 of Legatum Institute of Germany and published in English on its website.

At the global level, the Sultanate came 70th out of 149 countries round the world. The Sultanate came 51st in economic quality sub-index, 54th in the business environment sub-index, 9th in the sub-index for governance, 77th in the sub-index for education, 26th in the sub-index for health, 34th in the security sub-index and 66th in the social capital index.

New Zeeland New Zeeland topped the list and was followed by Norway, Finland, Switzerland and Canada. Data used by the institute for the index were taken from international organisations, such as the World Bank and World Health Organisation. -ONA

N OV E M B E R 1 0 D AT E

16 Indian schools to take part in 10th Jhankaar Spectrum Times News Service MUSCAT: More than 1,500 students from 16 Indian schools will take part in the Indian School Muscat’s (ISM’s) annual mega event, the 10th Jhankaar Spectrum, on Thursday, November 10, school authorities said.

Jhankaar Spectrum has provided a platform for students from Indian schools across the Sultanate to showcase their talent during the last few years.

The inaugural function will be held in the school’s multipurpose hall at 8:30 am.

Indra Mani Pandey, ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman will inaugurate the event, which will also draw members of the Board of Directors of Indian Schools in the Sultanate of Oman, principals of all Indian schools in Oman, members of the Indian School Muscat Management Committee, dignitaries, parents, teachers, students and well wishers.

Some 1,500 exceptionally talented students will showcase their talent as they compete in 27 events at 17 different venues on the school premises.

The highlights of the events during the first half (10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) include 18 events— Western Dance, Indian Classical Dance, Bharatnatyam, Elocution (Senior), Indian Folk song, Street Play, Indian Light Vocal,

PLATFORM: Jhankaar Spectrum has provided a platform for students from Indian schools across the Sultanate to showcase their talent during the last few years. -Supplied photo

Western Keyboard, Carnatic Vocal, Elocution (Junior), Essay Writing, Poetry Recitation, Short Movie Making, Create a TV Ad., Collage, Rangoli, Western Drums and Digital Photography and Album Making.

The second half (2:00 p.m. to 4:00p.m.) will encompass nine events—Mime, Indian Folk Dance, Indian Classical Dance, Western Vocal, Western Choral Singing, Comedy Skit, Indian Percussion (Tabla), Western Violin and Western Guitar. The first

three winners for each of these competitions will be felicitated with trophies and certificates of merit.

Each participant will receive a certificate of participation.

A valedictory function will be held at 5:30 p.m. The chief guest for the event will be Wilson V. George, chairman, Board of Directors of Indian Schools in the Sultanate of Oman. The exceptionally talented school that excels in the event will be honoured with a much coveted trophy.

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OMAN

E D UC AT I O N

Indian board tells schools to put all working details online REJIMON K CHIEF REPORTER

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Indian schools in Oman affiliated to Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will now have to upload finance, general, management, infrastructure, staff, and other details mandatorily on CBSE’s and school’s websites, AC C I D E N T D E AT H

Body of Indian truck driver to be repatriated in two days

Francis Devassy REJIMON K CHIEF REPORTER

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: The body of an Indian truck driver, who died after cargo offloaded by a crane fell on his truck died in Ghala, will be repatriated in two days, the victim’s friends said.

“We are coordinating with company and embassy officials to complete the paperwork to repatriate the body. We expect it may happen in two days,” friends of the victim said.

The victim, identified as the father of two, Francis Devassy, 51, is from the south Indian state of Kerala.

the authority has said.

The deadline to upload details, which is aimed at transparency, is November 30. In a circular quoting the affiliation by-laws of the Board under Chapter 2 Clause 11.1, CBSE stated that, “Fees charged should be commensurate with the facilities provided by the Institution.”

“Therefore, as a step towards bringing transparency on the fa-

cilities provided by the schools for information of the Board, parents, students and other stakeholders, it has been decided to make the mandatory disclosure of information as per the enclosed annexure by every institution/school affiliated with the Board,” the circular read.

The earlier deadline was October 31; however, as schools have failed to upload the details, the

Board has extended the deadline.

Even though the Indian Schools’ Board Chairman refused comment and provide details of the mandatory disclosure, the Board’s New Delhi office officially said all schools affiliated to CBSE are required to follow the guidelines/ circulars issued by it from time to time.

“The objective of getting the information from the affiliated

schools is to facilitate the Board to plan for examination, evaluations and academic activities efficiently,” the Board wrote in an email to the Times of Oman, adding that three Indian Schools in Oman have already uploaded the basic details, whereas eight Indian Schools in Oman are in the process of doing so.

The mandatory disclosure covers an unprecedented wide range

of information—from the number of taps to fee break-up, WiFi speed, admission results, reserve funds and balance sheets.

Welcoming the move, Indian school parents said it will bring in transparency for sure. A parent and a sub-committee member at the Indian School Muscat (ISM) said he was really happy to hear about the CBSE circular.

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T IME S O F O MAN

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

OMAN 14 photographers display their works at gallery Glowing Spectra Fourteen photographers displayed their artworks at the Photographic Society of Oman’s (PSO) headquarters in Al Mawaleh yesterday. Among the participants, 11 are Omanis, one Egyptian, a Kuwaiti and an Emirati. They are taking part at the gallery ‘Glowing Spectra’ which is being held under the sponsorship of the International Federation of Photographic Art (FIAP).

I NAUG U R AT E D

New public library to focus on history of the Sultanate this library would give everyone a chance to connect with the illustrious history of the Sultanate of Oman.

DEEBA HASAN

deeba@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: A public library, specialising in Oman’s history was inaugurated on Monday at the Al Rawahy Complex in Al Wattayah

by His Highness Sayyid Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, Minister of Heritage and Culture in Oman.

Located on the second floor of the complex, the library is open to the public and mainly consists of books and manuscripts in the Arabic language; however, there is also a section where books in English can be found.

Manuscripts and letters Besides books, there are also manuscripts and letters from important times in the history of Oman. Several old letters, and ancient artefacts from Omani history, have also been placed all across the library to reflect what’s in the books.

Traditional headdresses, san-

dals, guns, handicrafts and chests have also been placed in the library among other Omani items.

The inauguration was attended

by Sheikh Aflah Al Rawahy, the honorary consul of Belgium and the chairman of the Al Rawahy Group of Companies. The complex will house a public library, the Honorary Consulate of Belgium and showrooms and offices of the companies owned by Al Rawahy Holdings.

Sayyid Haitham congratulated Al Rawahy Holdings LLC on taking up this initiative of setting up a public library in Wattayah.

He stressed upon the need for all citizens to be proud of their heritage and culture and hoped that

Features Speaking on the occasion at the opening of the Library, Sheikh Aflah bin Hamed bin Salim Al Rawahy, the chairman of Al Rawahy Holdings LLC, highlighted some features of the public library, saying, “The library contains over 3,000 books and some very old, rare manuscripts that have been preserved by our grandfathers for centuries. In addition to this we have also displayed many artefacts that will remind us of our rich culture and heritage.”

He added that Arabic calligraphy has been an art practiced by many members of the Al Rawahy family; and the library will give visitors a chance to see some examples of classical Arabic calligraphy.

PAC D A

Desalination plant store fire put out BAKHA: A fire broke at one of the stores of the Desalination Plant in the Wilayat of Bakha, an official source at the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance said that.

Personnel of the Civil Defence and Ambulance with the support of personnel of Bakha Police Station rushed to the spot and managed to put out the fire. The fire resulted in damages to some spare parts but no casualties was reported in the incident.

The Directorate General of Drug and Narcotics Control arrested two Asian nationals in Al Ghubra in the Wilayat of Bausher on the charges of possession and tarding of drugs.

T I M E S OF OM AN

T IME S O F 8, O MAN TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 2016

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OMAN

Omanis to run Majid Al Futtaim’s 3 new malls While three new malls being built

by Majid Al Futtaim will be run by Omanis, the firm is also expanding opportunities for

BOOSTING EMPLOYMENT: Estimated at OMR275 million, the Mall of Oman will be the largest integrated retail, leisure and entertainment destination in the Sultanate when it opens in 2020.

citizens and plans to recruit new talent from Oman’s universities

RAHUL DAS

rahuldas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: The Mall of Oman, City Centre Sohar and City Centre Sur will now be run by Omani nationals, a senior official at Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) said.

Husam Al Mandhari, senior mall manager for City Centre Muscat said for the last 15 years, Majid Al Futtaim has been identifying, mentoring and employing Omani nationals to contribute to making the retail sector more sustainable. “Skills development in the creation, building, operations, and management of worldclass shopping malls and lifestyle destinations has ensured a longterm role for Omani nationals throughout Majid Al Futtaim’s assets in Oman.”

“As the company continues to invest millions of Omani rials in building three new malls, all of which will be run by Omani nationals, and maintaining its existing destinations, we will expand the opportunities for our existing

Omani colleagues to move to the new stages of their careers, while recruiting bright new talent from Oman’s universities,” he said.

Majid Al Futtaim is currently celebrating City Centre Muscat’s 15th anniversary.

When asked whether falling oil prices have affected their business, Al Mandhari said the company continues to make progress in the region. “This is because of our integrated business model, balanced portfolio across the region, tight focus on customer experience and a broad customer base, which protects us during short-term economic fluctuations. These attributes also allow us to benefit from the long-term trend of rising retail spending across our key markets, which is primarily driven by population growth.”

Revealing the latest on Majid Al Futtaim’s other projects in Oman, he said the company has three new projects in the pipeline.

“Estimated at OMR275 million, the Mall of Oman will be the largest integrated retail, leisure and entertainment destination in the Sultanate when it opens in 2020.

City Centre Sohar (estimated at OMR45 million), will open in 2018 and City Centre Sur (estimated at OMR15 million), will open in 2017.”

Majid Al Futtaim’s investments

said: “Since 2001, City Centre Muscat has offered a gateway for many international retailers entering Oman, with an impressive list of first-to-Oman international brands, including: Victoria’s Secret, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Bath & Body Works, Virgin Megastore, Bershka, American Eagle Outfitters, KoHusam Al Mandhari, senior mall ton, F&F fashion accessories, New Look, Guess Accessories, manager, City Centre Muscat Lovisa, and handmade cosmetics Lush, Shake Shack, Kosebaci are anticipated to create more and Ahwak to name a few.”

City Centre Muscat is the first than 42,000 direct and indirect job opportunities in the Sultan- and largest lifestyle shopping ate during the next five years. destination in Oman and attracts While the Mall of Oman will more than 10 million visitors angenerate 29,000 direct and indi- nually. Al Mandhari also stated rect job opportunities, the City that the company sees growth poCentre Sur and Sohar will gener- tential in all the locations.

“Overall, we are seeing a shift ate 3,500 and 8,000 employment in spending patterns as the popuopportunities, respectively.

Regarding City Centre Muscat’s lation becomes wealthier, while contribution to the Sultanate’s re- an increasing number of hightail industry, Al Mandhari said: net-worth individuals has led to “Since its opening, this mall has the growth of luxury and fashset the standard for retail, leisure, ion brands and the emergence of and dining experiences in the niche market concepts, such highSultanate. Over the past 15 years end retail centres.”

“Although spending patterns we have introduced countless international brands to Oman, have been shifting as lifestyles hosted unforgettable family ex- change, the Omani consumer periences and created great mo- price index shows that a large portion of household spending still ments for our customers.”

About the brands making their goes towards food and related entrance in the Omani market products, a trend reflected in the with City Centre Muscat, he steady growth of hypermarkets.”

UNFORESEEN COST

< FROM

A1 ‘Visa fee hike’ The mining and quarry sector has 189,477 expatriate workers, while hotels and restaurants have 99,711 workers. The real estate sector employs 80,374 expatriate workers, according to government data.

The top five sectors alone will bring in OMR136m extra for the government, should visas be renewed and departing workers are replaced by foreign labour.

Officials at Oman’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) said that they are concerned the move will put more pressure on business.

“Implementing many forms of taxes on the local private companies will put so much pressure on the sector,” Redha Juma Mohammed Ali Al Saleh, vice-chairman at the OCCI, said, pointing to the new visa fee hike.

“The consumer will ultimately pay the price,” he added, explaining that such rules need to be implemented gradually to avoid putting pressure on the private sector in Oman.

Shaswar Al Balushi, the chief executive officer of Oman Society for Contractors association, said that the visa fee increase will hit them

hard.

“Already the construction sector is struggling a lot due to economic conditions. Bills are getting stuck, projects are less too. At this time, to pay extra for workers’ visas will be a struggle,” Shaswar said.

“Majority of the companies would not have budgeted for this unforeseen cost. Now, they will struggle. Already, companies are taking money on interest to run the show. This extra cost will be a burden for them,” Shaswar added.

The government’s original 2016 budget plan envisaged state expenditure of OMR11.9 billion and revenues at OMR8.6 billion.

Officials said their 2016 economic plans assumed an average oil price of $45 a barrel.

Oman is imposing a series of austerity measures after it posted a budget deficit of about OMR4.5 billion last year. Petrol and diesel price subsidies have been cut and similar cuts are planned for electricity and liquid petroleum gas.

In August, the World Bank said Oman’s subsidy bill is expected to fall by 64 per cent this year as the government seeks to reform its finances amid lower oil prices.

OMAN TO UK

< FROM

A1 Exports jump 39% “The message is that the UK is an open and friendly business environment.

“UK exports to Oman in 2015 were £730 million, up 13 per cent year on year. UK imports from Oman in 2015 were £230 million, up 39 per cent year on year.”

Brexit, Britain’s exit from the European Union, could actually pave the way for better deals on the Omani side, according to Lord Astor, who said that the weak pound could act as an incentive in tourism, property investment and trade.

Speaking about the recent High Court ruling that British Prime Minister Theresa May should go to parliament to seek approval on her Brexit plans, Lord Astor added: “I’m optimistic that if it has to go through parliament that the government will get it through.

Brexit is going to give British companies opportunities. We have firm ideas on Brexit, there are a lot of brains working on this at the moment and we have been approached by a lot of countries wanting to do deals with us.”

Jonathan Wilks said training in health and education would help create the leaders of tomorrow in the Sultanate, “to help with the country’s Omanisation plans”.

Wilks added: “we want to train young Omanis. We want to be as good a partner as we can be with Oman.”

The delegation has been encouraging Omani business to look again at opportunities in the UK that, pre-Brexit and the weaker pound, may have seemed too expensive, but would now represent good value for money, a spokesman said.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

OMAN

Fahd praises Oman, South Africa ties The South African Minister conveyed greetings and best wishes of President Dr. Jacob Zuma of South Africa to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said MUSCAT: His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers received yesterday Nosiviwe Noluthando Mapisa-Nqakula, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans in South Africa, who is currently on an official visit to the Sultanate.

During the meeting, the South African Minister conveyed greetings and best wishes of President Dr. Jacob Zuma of South Africa to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, his government and the Omani people further progress and welfare.

Sayyid Fahd commended the

BOOSTING COOPERATION: His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin

Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers with Nosiviwe Noluthando Mapisa-Nqakula, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans in South Africa. – ONA

existing relations between the two countries and the progress witnessed, stemming from the joint keenness of both the sides.

The South African minister of defence expressed her country’s appreciation to the wise policy pursued by the Sultanate under the leadership of His Majesty the Sultan in tackling regional and international developments.

She also expressed her pride and that of her accompanying delegation over this visit, and the opportunity it availed to closely view the progress made by Oman.

The meeting was attended by Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Harib Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs and Lungile Chris Pepani, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the Sultanate.

General Sultan bin Mohammed Al Nu’amani, Minister of the Royal Office received in his office Nosiviwe Noluthando MapisaNqakula and her accompanying delegation.

The Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs gave an official reception to the South African guest

upon her arrival at Mu’askar Bait Al Falaj.

Sayyid Al Busaidi welcomed the guest and her delegation, wishing them a successful visit in the Sultanate.

They reviewed the relations and aspects of the existing military cooperation between the two countries.

The two sides also stressed their keenness on enhancing cooperation to serve the interests of the two countries.

The session was attended from the Omani side by Lt.Gen Ahmed bin Harith Al Nabhani, Chief of Staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) and Maj.Gen Mattar bin Salim al-Balushi, Commander of the Royal Army of Oman (RAO) whilst it was attended from the South African side by Lungile Chris Pepani, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the Sultanate and the delegation accompanying the guest.

The South African minister and her accompanying delegation visited the Sultan’s Armed Forces (SAF) Museum.

Brigadier Saud bin Khalifa Al Hatmi, Head of the Military Protocols and Public Relations at COSAF escorted them in a tour to various sections of the museum.

The guest and her accompanying delegation viewed the historic manuscripts and models. -ONA

WRITTEN MESSAGE

IMPROVING RELATIONS: His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud

Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers with Roland Dubertrand, Ambassador of the French Republic to Oman. – ONA

France thanks HM for release of hostages MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said received a written message from President Francois Hollande of the French Republic.

The message was received by His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers when he received in his office yesterday Roland Dubertrand, Ambassador of France to Oman.

The ambassador conveyed greetings of President Hollande along with his best wishes of success to His Majesty and his government and the Omani people further growth and prosperity.

He also conveyed thanks of President Hollande and the

French government for the Sultanate’s efforts in releasing the French hostages in the region, as well as for the existing cooperation between the two countries in several fields.

Conversation during the meeting touched on means of supporting fields of joint cooperation and exchanged viewpoints on several current issues and developments at the international arena.

Sayyid Fahd asked the ambassador to convey greetings of His Majesty the Sultan along with his best wishes to the French president and his government and the French people continuous progress and growth. -ONA

AT T E S TAT I O N D O C U M E N T S

MEETINGS

Minister of the Diwan of Royal Sultanate, Qatar sign pact Court bids farewell to envoys on security cooperation

END OF DUTY: Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal bin Saud Al Busaidi, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court bids farewell to the ambassadors of Syria and Turkey. – ONA

MUSCAT: Sayyid Khalid bin Hilal bin Saud Al Busaidi, Minister of the Diwan of Royal Court received in his office yesterday Farouq Mahmoud Qaddor, ambassador of Syria and Ugur Dogan, ambassador of Turkey to bid them farewell at the end of their tours of duties.

The meetings exchanged cor-

dial conversations and reviewed bilateral relations between the Sultanate of Oman and their countries.

The two ambassadors expressed their thanks for the cooperation extended to them during their tenure in the Sultanate, which had enabled them to carry

out their duties.

On his turn, Sayyid Al Busaidi thanked the ambassadors for the good efforts they exerted, which contributed in enhancing the relations between the Sultanate and Syrian Arab Republic and the Republic of Turkey, wishing them success. -ONA

MUSCAT: An agreement for exchanging attestation documents on security cooperation was signed at the Foreign Ministry yesterday between Oman and Qatar for enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the Sultanate’s by Mohammed bin Nasser Al Wahibi, Head of the GCC Department at the Foreign Ministry while it was signed on behalf of the Qatari government by Ali bin Fahd Al Hajri, Qatari ambassador to Oman.

Thus, the Omani and Qatari sides have completed the necessary legal procedures for the agreement to come into force in accordance with the article (14) of the aforementioned agreement signed between the two countries at Doha on 19th Rajab 1437 AH corresponding to April 26, 2016. -ONA

LEGAL PROCEDURES: The agreement was signed on behalf of the Sultanate’s by Mohammed bin Nasser Al Wahibi, Head of the GCC Department at the Foreign Ministry while it was signed on behalf of the Qatari government by Ali bin Fahd Al Hajri, Qatari ambassador to the Sultanate. -ONA

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MUSCAT: Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed an agreement that aims at facilitating transport of passengers and goods and for creating a suitable platform for the national carrier to UAE. Eng. Salim bin Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport and Communications said that the cooperation agreement between the government of the Sultanate and the government of the UAE in the field of passengers and goods transport emanates from the distinguished bilateral relations and common interests between the two countries.

It also comes in a bid to enhance communication and joint cooper-

ation in the field of land transport of passengers and goods.

He added that within the efforts made to carry out their obligations, the Ministry sought to expand its international relations in the field of land transport by signing cooperation agreement between the two governments.

Land transport “The agreement included a number of articles that regularise the traffic of land transport means between the two countries. The two sides agreed to find a standard mechanism for entry and exit of these means between the two countries, facilitating the financial transactions between the

two carriers, the levying of taxes and fines for violators of laws and transport regulations in both countries, he furthered.

The agreement relates to facilitating the traffic of passengers, their luggage, commercial goods and UAE land transport means to the Omani lands.

The national carriers in both countries are allowed to open offices or appoint representatives or agents as per the laws in force in both countries. -ONA

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U N I V E R S I T Y O F M U S C AT

Approval for new courses MUSCAT: Approval for a number of bachelor and masters academic programmes at the University of Muscat was given by the Programme and Institution Licencing Committee at the Ministry of Higher Education. The approval came at the committee’s 4th meeting for the year 2016.

The committee reviewed the

applications submitted by the university and gave approval for the following programmes: BSc Management Accounting, B.Eng. in Chemical Engineering, BSc. in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Sarmi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Higher Education,

The committee also approved the following master programmes: MSc in Aviation Management, MSc in Aviation Systems and Thermal Processes, MSc in Finance and Management, MSc. in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, MSc in Management and Entrepreneurship, and MSc in Operations Systems Engineering. -ONA

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

A7

REGION Peshmerga storm town near Mosul A 2,000-strong Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga force entered Bashiqa, some 15km from Mosul, on foot and in armoured vehicles

BASHIQA (IRAQ): Iraqi Kurdish peshmerga forces stormed an IS-held town northeast of Mosul on Monday, trying to clear a pocket of militants outside the city while Iraqi troops wage a fierce urban war with the militants in its eastern neighbourhoods.

The Iraqi operation, involving a 100,000-strong alliance of troops, security forces, Kurdish peshmerga and militias, backed by US-led air strikes and a global consensus against the militants, has so far gained just a small foothold in Mosul. In Bashiqa, some 15km (10 miles) from Mosul, the first waves of a 2,000-strong peshmerga force entered the town on foot and in armoured vehicles or Humvees.

Artillery earlier pounded the town, which lies on the Nineveh

GAINING FOOTHOLD: Smoke rises during clashes between Peshmerga forces and IS militants in the town of Bashiqa, east of Mosul, in Iraq, on Monday. – Reuters

plains at the foot of a mountain.

“Our aim is to take control and clear out all the Daesh (IS) militants,” Lieutenant-Colonel Safeen Rasoul told Reuters. “Our estimates are there are about 100 still left and 10 suicide cars.”

IS fighters have sought to slow the offensive on their Mosul stronghold with waves of suicide car bomb attacks. Iraqi commanders say there have been 100 on the eastern front and 140 in the south.

A top Kurdish official told Reuters on Sunday the militants had also deployed drones strapped with explosives, long-range artillery shells filled with chlorine gas and mustard gas and trained snipers. As a peshmerga column moved into Bashiqa on Monday, a loud explosion rocked the convoy, and two large plumes of white smoke could be seen just 50 feet (15 metres) away. A peshmerga officer said two suicide car bombs had tried to hit

the advancing force.

“They are surrounded... If they want to surrender, OK. If they don’t, they will be killed,” said Lieutenant-Colonel Qandeel Mahmoud, standing next to a Humvee, supported by a cane he said he has needed since he was wounded in the leg by two suicide car bombers four months ago.

Armed US soldiers, part of a 5,000 strong force Washington says is advising and supporting

OFFENSIVE AGAINST IS IN RAQQA

Syrian armed groups capture villages BEIRUT: US-backed Syrian armed groups have captured a number of villages in the first days of an offensive to retake the city of Raqqa from IS militants, a war monitor and a Kurdish source said on Monday.

The ground forces are being supported by airstrikes mounted by a US-led coalition, the source said. But he predicted the battle to drive IS from their Raqqa, their main stronghold in Syria, would “not be easy”.

The operation by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which includes the Syrian Kurdish YPG militia and some Arab groups, began on Saturday and aims to encircle and ultimately capture Raqqa. The attack, named “Euphrates Anger” so far appears focused on areas north of Raqqa, south of the town of Ain Issa, 50 km (30 miles) away. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, an organisation that monitors the multi-sided Syrian conflict, said the SDF forces had so far captured a number of IS positions but there had been “no real progress”.

The Kurdish source said a number of villages had been captured.

IS had set off five car bombs as part of their defence, he said.

“It is difficult to put a time frame on the operation at present.

The battle will not be easy,” the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The US-led coalition was pro-

MAKING PROGRESS: A Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) fighter stands near the rubble of a destroyed building, north of Raqqa city, Syria, on Monday. – Reuters

viding “excellent” air support, he added. The SDF has been the main ally on the ground in Syria for the US-led coalition against IS in Iraq and Syria, capturing swathes of northern Syria. The coalition said on Monday the SDF, supported by coalition air and advisory support, had begun the operation to isolate Raqqa.

“The isolation of Raqqa, when complete, will liberate strategically valuable terrain surrounding Raqqa and enable the liberation of the city,” Commander, Lt-Gen. Stephen Townsend said.

The operation will also cut off IS militants from Mosul as Iraqi

forces simultaneously try to take back that city, Townsend said.

Planning for the Raqqa assault has been complicated by factors including the concerns of neighbouring Turkey, which does not want to see any further expansion of Kurdish influence in northern Syria.

Additionally, Raqqa is a predominantly Arab city, and Syrian Kurdish officials have previously said it should be freed from IS by Syrian Arab groups, not the Kurdish YPG. Once Raqqa is freed from IS it will be run by a military and a civilian council made up of Raqqa inhabitants, Jihan Sheikh Ahmad,

an SDF spokeswoman, said.

This was the post-libertion model of government employed in the northern Syrian city of Manbij, near the Turkish border, after the SDF expelled IS in August.

Townsend said the coalition would consult with its allies throughout the campaign with its allies over plans for Raqqa’s seizure and how it will be governed after that. A US official told Reuters in Washington there was “no available force capable of taking Raqqa in the near future”, and US officials cautioned the process of sealing off and isolating the city could take two months or longer. — Reuters

CARGOES STOPPED

‘Saudi oil shipments to Egypt halted indefinitely’ CAIRO/ABU DHABI: Saudi Arabia has informed Egypt that shipments of oil products expected under a $23 billion aid deal have been halted indefinitely.

Saudi Arabia has been a major donor to Egypt since President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi seized power in mid-2013 but Riyadh has become frustrated at Sisi’s lack of economic reforms and his reluctance to be drawn into the conflict in Yemen. Saudi Arabia agreed to provide Egypt with 700,000 tonnes of refined oil products per month for five years but the cargoes stopped arriving in early October as festering political tensions burst into the open.

Valid Egyptian officials have said since that the contract with Saudi Arabia’s state oil firm Aramco remains valid and had appeared to expect that oil would start flowing again soon.

On Monday, however, Egyptian Oil Minister Tarek El Molla confirmed it had stopped shipments indefinitely. Aramco has not commented on the halt and did not respond to calls on Monday.

“They did not give us a reason,”

Egyptian Oil Minister Tarek El Molla confirmed Saudi Arabia’s state oil firm Aramco had stopped shipments indefinitely.

They only informed the authority about halting shipments of petroleum products until further notice

an oil ministry official told Reuters. “They only informed the authority about halting shipments of petroleum products until further notice.”

The move comes as a source in Molla’s delegation said late on

Sunday evening that he would visit Iran to try to strike new oil deals. Egypt and Iran’s diplomatic relations have been strained since the 1970s. Speaking to reporters in Abu Dhabi, Molla said he was not going to Iran. An Iranian oil of-

ficial later said that report by the semi-official Mehr news agency suggesting Molla would meet his Iranian counterpart in Tehran on Monday was “incorrect”.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Ahmed Abu Zeid said he had no information on the visit.

But two security sources and the source in Molla’s delegation said the minister had been scheduled to go though the low-key visit was now delayed after the news became public.

Gulf Arab countries, led by Saudi Arabia, have pumped billions of dollars into Egypt’s flagging economy since former general Sisi took over after a year of divisive rule by the Muslim Brotherhood.

But with the Brotherhood threat diminished, Gulf leaders have grown disillusioned at what they consider Sisi’s inability to reform an economy that has become a black hole for aid, and his reluctance to back them on the regional stage.

A deal to hand over two Red Sea islands to Saudi Arabia, made at the same time as the oil aid agreement, has faced legal challenges and is now bogged down in an Egyptian court. — Reuters

the Iraqi offensive, were accompanying the peshmerga in Bashiqa through streets lined by rows of damaged houses, some with entire floors collapsed.

Fighting was intense and at one stage a convoy of 40 vehicles was held up by a single IS sniper.

In eastern districts of Mosul, which Iraqi special forces broke into last week, officers say militants melted into the population, ambushing and isolating troops in what the special forces spokesman called the world’s “toughest urban warfare”.

Mosul has been held by the group since its fighters drove the army out of northern Iraq in June 2014. The campaign to retake it is the most complex military operation in Iraq since the 2003 US invasion which toppled Saddam Hussein.

IS leader Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, whose whereabouts are unknown but who is believed to be in northern Iraq close to the Syrian border, has told his followers there can be no retreat in a “total war” with their enemies. The militants in Mosul have been waging a fierce and brutal defence, although they have lost ground on all fronts outside the city itself.

To the south of Mosul, security forces said they had recaptured and secured the town of Hammam Al Alil from IS fighters, who they said had kept thousands of residents as human shields as well as

marching many others alongside retreating militants towards Mosul as cover from air strikes.

The United Nations has warned of a possible exodus of hundreds of thousands of refugees from a city which is still home to up to 1.5 million people. So far 34,000 have been displaced, the International Organization for Migration said.

Many of those still in Mosul feel trapped, including those in districts which the army entered last week. “We still can’t go out of our houses.... mortars are falling continuously on the quarter,” a resident of the Quds neighbourhood on the eastern edge of the city told Reuters by telephone on Sunday.

Security forces on the southern front have continued their advance, reaching within 4 km (2-1/2 miles) of Mosul’s airport, on the southern edge of the city and on the western bank of the Tigris River which runs through its centre.

To the north, a military statement said the army’s Sixteenth Infantry Division had also recaptured the village of Bawiza and entered another area, Sada, on the city’s northern limits, further tightening the circle of forces around IS. Militias known as Popular Mobilisation forces are also fighting to the west of Mosul to seal the routes to the IS-held town of Tal Afar and its territory in neighbouring Syria, to prevent any retreat or reinforcement. — Reuters

A8

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

INDIA India, Britain vow to fight terrorism British Prime Minister Theresa May held extensive talks with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on her first bilateral visit outside Europe

NEW DELHI: India and Britain on Monday pledged to fight terrorism and bring to justice terror groups and those who encourage them even as the two countries agreed not to allow fugitives escape law in each other’s territory.

As Prime Minister Theresa May made her first bilateral visit outside Europe and held extensive talks with her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, officials handed over a list of 57 fugitives New Delhi wants to be extradited and hoped for early extradition of industrialist Vijay Mallya to face probe in the money laundering case against him. After more than three hours of “extensive” talks, the two prime ministers agreed on boosting trade ties, with May saying that during her visit alone, India and the United Kingdom (UK) will ink more than £1 billion (INR 83,00 crore) of business deals.

At a joint press interaction with Modi, May announced two business-centric visa programmes -Registered Traveller Scheme and Great Club -- while India drew her attention to its students and working professionals getting impacted by the stringent visa norms in the UK. As per official UK figures, the number of study visas issued to Indian nationals fell from 68,238 in 2010 to 11,864 this year.

While boosting trade and simplifying visa regime apart from security and defence coopera-

BOOSTING TIES: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, right, and Britain’s Prime Minister Theresa May at a press conference during an agreement signing ceremony in New Delhi, on Monday. – AFP

tion were among the key bilateral issues, the two leaders also discussed regional and international matters of mutual interest including the need for South Asia to be stable, prosperous and free from terror. They called upon all countries to work towards that goal.

“Both Prime Ministers acknowledged that terrorism and violent extremism poses one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and in this regard called for concerted global action without selectivity.

“The two leaders called for urgent measures to counter and prevent the spread of terrorism, violent extremism and radicalisation,” a joint statement issued after the talks said.

The two sides underlined the importance of maintaining the legal order for the seas and oceans based on the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The remarks are seen as a veiled

CWC MEETING

tion front, Modi said, “I encourage British companies to look at the multiple opportunities in the Indian defence sector. Looking beyond trade in defence equipment, I invite them to build partnerships with Indian enterprises that focus on manufacturing, technology transfer and co-development.”

Recognising the potential for cooperation in defence manufacturing between the British and Indian companies in the ‘Make in India’ framework, the two sides agreed to encourage and facilitate such cooperation.

The UK will continue its engagement with the Indian Ministry of Defence and Indian defence companies to simplify and expedite export control regimes and to support the transfer of technology to enable projects in areas of mutual interest.

“The two prime ministers tasked the Defence Consultative Group (DCG) on November 15-16,

2016 to advance the bilateral defence cooperation agenda, including the UK’s proposals for capability partnerships, through a range of activities including military to military cooperation, training, exchange of subject matter experts, research and technology linkages as well as defence manufacturing,” the joint statement said.

Noting that ongoing cooperation between HAL and BAE Systems in manufacturing Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers in India was an example of partnership in defence manufacturing, the prime ministers agreed to apply innovative approaches to jointly promote products and services in international markets.

Britain also reaffirmed its support to India’s bid for permanent membership of the UN Security Council (UNSC) as the prime ministers of the two countries directed their officials concerned to have “close and regular consultations”

DELHI AIR QUALITY

Democracy going through darkest hours, says Rahul NEW DELHI: Rahul Gandhi on Monday made a scathing attack on the Modi government, saying democracy is going through “one of its darkest hours” with the ruling dispensation “obsessed with power and seeking to silence” all those who disagree.

Presiding over the meeting of the Congress Working Committee (CWC) in the absence of party chief Sonia Gandhi, the party vice president charged that, “hiding behind the cloak of national security, civil society is being intimidated for asking questions.”

Rahul charged, “The opposition is being arrested for holding the government to account”.

“Democracy under the present dispensation is going through one of the darkest hours,” he said, adding that all attempts by the government to suppress fundamental freedom by “abusing” state power would only strengthen the Congress resolve to defeat such “danger designs”.

“Asking questions is what discomforts this government the most, for they have no answers.

We must in every forum, in particular the upcoming session of Parliament, expose the government’s failures,” he said.

The Winter session of Parlia-

reference to the recent order by the UN on the South China Sea that was criticised by China, which refused to accept it.

Reaffirming their respect for and commitment to the freedom of navigation and overflight based on the universally recognised principles of international law, as reflected in the UNCLOS, the two leaders stated that all related territorial and jurisdictional disputes should be resolved by peaceful means, without resorting to the threat or use of force.

“They urged States to respect UNCLOS and refrain from activities which prejudice the peace, good order and security of the oceans,” the statement said.

Earlier in the day, May, who arrived here on Sunday night, inaugurated UK-India Tech Summit jointly with Modi and will fly to Bengaluru on Tuesday where she will attend business events.

On bilateral defence coopera-

on all matters related to the international body.

The UK also welcomed India’s entry into the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), a key global non-proliferation objectives, and backed India’s bid for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) as well as other key export control regimes like the Australia Group.

Modi and May also welcomed a fourth phase of the Joint UKIndia Civil Nuclear Research Programme that will look at new technologies for enhancing nuclear safety, advanced materials for nuclear systems, waste management and future civil nuclear energy systems.

Recognising that Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) is a global challenge, India and the UK announced new research partnerships worth £80 million, including establishment of a joint strategic group on AMR with a joint investment of up to £13 million.

The two sides said they would work together to support the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance.

“The growing India-UK cyber relationship is a success story of the Defence and International Security Partnership (DISP),” a joint statement said.

The two sides also expressed desire to enter into a Framework for the UK-India Cyber Relationship.

Projects to reduce post-harvest losses to benefit farmers, collaborations in health care and the launch of the second phase of joint research in women and children’s health in low-income settings were also announced.

May also signalled the UK’s intention to join the International Solar Alliance.

In their joint statement, both the prime ministers said they look forward to the celebration of 2017 as the India-UK Year of Culture and support the activities and programmes being planned, for example an exhibition of Indian Science in the Science Museum in London and another highlighting 400th death anniversary of William Shakespeare. — PTI

ment is set to begin on November 16. Rahul , who has been raking up the issue of OROP since the past few days, said, “In recent months, our jawans have suffered the highest casualties in decades. They are being cruelly rewarded by a callous government with denial of OROP and cut in disability pension.”

During the meeting, which will also strategise the party’s action plan for the upcoming assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and some other states, Rahul said the Modi government is expected to launch a “disinformation campaign and polarisation to exploit caste and religious issues”.

“With state elections due in the coming months as we can safely expect the Modi government to launch a campaign of disinformation and polarisation.

They will exploit caste and religious fault lines. We must anticipates and neutralise such devious strategies,” he said.

Underlining that Congress has “successfully exposed” the Modi government’s “anti-poor agenda and broken promises”, Rahul asked the partymen to continue the “struggle to expose the comprehensive failure of the Modi government on all fronts”. — PTI

Deregistration of 15-year-old diesel vehicles begin to ease pollution NEW DELHI: The Delhi government on Monday started a process of deregistering 15-year-old diesel vehicles in the city and also imposed a ban on use of fire crackers except for religious functions, following directions from Lt Governor Najeeb Jung to bring down air pollution.

Jung on Monday chaired a highlevel meeting attended by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, his deputy Manish Sisodia, Environment Minister Imran Hussain and representatives from other agencies.

A senior official at the LG office said decisions taken on Monday will be reviewed in the next meeting on November 15.

Apart from that, ban on construction and demolition activities will continue till November 14 and overloaded trucks and such nondestined will not allowed in the national capital. The LG has also issued strict action against polluting industries running in Delhi particularly in non-conforming areas and directed MCD and Delhi Police to jointly launch operations to shut down all such industries.

Due to deregistration of 15-yearold diesel vehicles, about 200,000 such vehicles will go off the capital’s roads. The move comes a day after Kejriwal announced closure of all schools till Wednesday, ban on construction and demolition

GRAVE SITUATION: Traffic drives through smog in Delhi, India on Monday. – Reuters

activities for next five days and temporary closure of Badarpur Power Plant. In its July order, National Green Tribunal (NGT) had directed Delhi government to deregister diesel vehicles older than 10 years.

Later, the NGT had directed the city administration to deregister 15 years old diesel vehicles in first phase. Monday’s meeting was intended to discuss the serious condition of air pollution in city and directed all agencies concerned to ensure immediate measures re-

quired to mitigate air pollution in Delhi are strictly implemented.

“Deregistration of 15-year-old diesel vehicles started from today.

Directions have been issued to all registering authorities/MLOs to start deregistration of diesel vehicles which are more than 15 years old in a phased manner.

“This will bring about a reduction of 200,000 diesel vehicles on the roads in Delhi,” LG office said in a statement.

Ban has also been imposed on fire crackers in the national capital

in marriages and other events, except for religious functions. “Strict enforcement of ban on construction/demolition activities will be in place from November 7 to 14. Municipal authorities and Delhi Police will ensure its strict implementation and prosecute violators,” the statement said.

Jung said that all authorities concerned must come together on a war footing while assigning responsibilities to various agencies for strict implementation of decisions. — PTI

SUPREME COURT HEARING

Kerala takes U-turn, favours entry of women in Sabarimala NEW DELHI: In a U-turn, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government of the south Indian state of Kerala on Monday informed the Supreme Court that it favoured the entry of women of all age groups in the historic Sabarimala temple in the state.

The counsel for the state government, which had earlier supported the ban on women’s entry in the temple in its additional affidavit filed in July this year, told the apex court it will now go by its original

response filed in 2007 favouring entry of women in the temple premises. Initially, the LDF government had taken a progressive stand in 2007 by favouring women’s entry in the temple, which was overturned by the Congress-led United Democratic Front dispensation later. However, the United Democratic Front (UDF), before losing power to the LDF this year, had taken a view that it was against the entry of women of the age group of 10-to-50 years into the temple as

such a practice was being followed since time immemorial.

“On being asked as to what is the stand of the state, senior advocate Gupta states that the state intends to place reliance on its original affidavit (2007) and not on additional affidavit...women of any age group should not be debarred from entry into the temple to worship the deity,” a bench comprising Justices Dipak Misra, R Banumathi and Ashok Bhushan said.

The bench also recorded the

submission of senior advocate KK Venugopal, appearing for the Travancore Devaswom Board which manages the hill-top shrine, that the state cannot afford to alter its stand as per their convenience.

The bench, which has now fixed the matter for hearing on February 13 next year, said the stand of the government is not the final one as it will take a decision after deliberating upon various aspects including the constitutional provisions with regard to gender equality.

“Can a woman, because of the biological phenomenon, be debarred from entering into the temple. Can there be a prohibition in law...she may or may not go to the temple, it is her choice,” the bench observed.

The apex court had on July 11 indicated that it may refer to a fivejudge constitution bench the issue of the centuries -old practice of barring entry of women between 10 and 50 years of age in the historic Sabarimala temple, saying it pertains to violation of fundamen-

tal rights. The apex court had observed that women are conferred rights under the Constitution and it would pass a detailed order in case the matter is referred to a fivejudge constitution bench.

It had remarked: “a temple is a public religious place. You cannot refuse entry to a woman who comes there...It violates the rights of women. We understand the seriousness of issue. Every right needs to be balanced but every balancing has its own limitations...”. — PTI

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A9

PAKISTAN

ECONOMIC CORRIDOR

China’s billions luring once shy foreign investors to Pakistan KARACHI: After years of flat direct foreign investment, it has taken China’s pledges of billions to get overseas companies to start looking beyond Pakistan’s negative headlines on security challenges and power outages.

While investment into Pakistan has been little changed in the three years since Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was elected, companies including Turkey home appliances maker Arcelik AS and Dutch dairy giant Royal FrieslandCampina NV are making acquisitions in Pakistan.

Along with a military crackdown against militants following a 2014 school massacre and the government’s plans to end power shortages by 2018, it is China’s vote of confidence in the country that has boosted investor confidence.

Soft loans, investments It pledged $46 billion in soft loans and investments in a so-called China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, or CPEC, announced last year.

“Pakistan has turned the tide,” said Mattias Martinsson, the Stockholm-based chief investment of-

ficer at Tundra Fonder AB, which holds about $160 million in Pakistani stocks.

“The CPEC agreement was probably the trigger for many investors to actively start looking.

We all know China does not take short term decisions.” New power plant projects fueled by Chinese investment are expected to help with Pakistan’s chronic outages and pave the way for investment in other industries. Consumer companies are taking the lead to cater to the world’s sixth largest nation by population.

“If you look at demographic and population, it’s just a great place to be,” said Naz Khan, Chief Financial Officer at Engro Corporation Ltd. whose food subsidiary is being bought by Dutch dairy company FrieslandCampina, which is looking to take a 51 percent stake in a deal valued at about $545 million at the November 4 closing.

Consumer Spending Consumer spending in Pakistan has increased 83.4 per cent in the past five years compared with 48.7 per cent in the Asia-Pacific region, according to data by Euromonitor Internation-

loan programme that averted a balance of payment crisis and boosted foreign exchange reserves to a record level.

The economy is expected to grow around five percent annually for the next three years and Arcelik plans to keep its sales growth

GAME CHANGER: Pakistan has turned the tide, said Mattias Mar-

tinsson, the Stockholm-based chief investment officer at Tundra Fonder AB, which holds about $160 million in Pakistani stocks. — File

al, a consumer research firm.

Its forecasts show Pakistan’s disposable income has more than doubled in six years. “Its young population, increasingly growing economy, makes it an enticing prospect as a market in the region,” Polat Sen, chief financial officer at Arcelik, said by e-mail.

“Pakistan is on the verge of an investment-led growth cycle.”

Arcelik is scheduled to complete

Police raid more than 90 Karachi religious schools The crackdown was aimed at both majority and minority sect seminaries, said the provincial police chief

KARACHI: Pakistani police arrested dozens of people in a crackdown on more than 90 seminaries in Karachi, following a series of sectarian shootings in the country’s largest city, officials said on Monday.

Provincial police chief Allah Dino Khwaja told Reuters the crackdown was aimed at both majority and minority sect seminaries. Five supporters of the Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamaat (ASWJ were killed in drive-by attacks in Karachi on Friday.

On October 29, five members of the minority sect were shot dead at a gathering in the city’s North Nazimabad area, an attack claimed by Lashkar-e-Jhangvi alAlami, one of ASWJ’s offshoots.

A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said

CRACKDOWN: Police stand guard as members of the minority sect blocked the main national highway and railway tracks to protest the detention of their religious workers in Karachi, Pakistan on Monday. — Reuters

that “dozens” had been arrested in the crackdown.

Among them were two men, members of Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, responsible for 28 targeted attacks on members of the minority sect and security forces, provincial Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah told reporters. The men were responsible for several highprofile attacks, including the killing of celebrated Sufi singer Amjad Sabri earlier this year, and the October 29 attack. Shah said that a “huge number” of weapons had been recovered after their arrests.

Over the weekend, three prominent leaders of the minority sect community were picked up by security forces for their alleged role in Friday’s shootings.

The arrests prompted protests by members of the minority sect in the Malir area of Karachi, where demonstrators blocked a road and were forcibly cleared by police firing tear gas, rubber bullets and automatic weapons.

It was not immediately clear if there were any casualties.

Police also searched the Siddiq-e-Akbar mosque, considered the Karachi headquarters of the ASWJ, on Monday.

The group’s secretary-general, Taj Hanafi, and 10 other suspects were detained, said a police official, speaking on condition of anonymity. The ASWJ was officially banned as a terrorist organisation in 2012, but its workers continue to operate openly. — Reuters

its purchase of Pakistan’s home appliance maker Dawlance for $243.2 million this month.

It plans to focus on the local market and closely evaluate opportunities in the current export markets of Dawlance, according to Sen. Pakistan’s government expects the economy to grow at the fastest pace in a decade after completing an International Monetary Fund

Military’s control Despite the optimism, Pakistan’s political outlook remains tricky with some some observers questioning the military’s control over the country.

The army has cracked down on militants but attacks are continuing, with at least 61 killed last month when three armed men wearing suicide vests broke into a police academy. And multiple economic challenges remain.

The nation’s overseas shipments for the year through June fell to the lowest level since 2010, current account has more than doubled in the quarter ending September and less than one per cent of the population are registered tax-filers.

“Foreign investors are definitely interested. I think what is stopping

them from jumping over the wall is element of unpredictability,” said Shahab Rizvi, president of the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry, whose members include local units of GlaxoSmithKline Plc and Coca Cola Co. “I mean government policies tend to change, primarily regulatory policies such as taxation. These actually move like a pendulum.”

Pakistan’s automobile sector has also attracted interest with Renault entering exclusive negotiations with Ghandhara and Al Futtaim to develop a brand in Pakistan, a spokeswoman said by phone on November 3.

Meanwhile, investments are expected to jump to $5 billion in the year starting July from $1.28 billion in the last fiscal year as power plants come on line, Miftah Ismail, chairman of the nation’s Board of Investment, said in an August interview. “I think you will also see Pakistan moving more toward merchant markets, you know people coming in and start taking risks,” Khan said. “ I think this is just the beginning.” — Bloomberg

ADJOURNED TILL NOVEMBER 15

Nawaz’s children submit replies in Panamagate case ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s three scions submitted their replies in Panamagate case before a five-judge bench of the Supreme Court on Monday.

In their written reply, Hussain admitted owning offshore properties while Maryam claimed she is a trustee and Hassan out-rightly denied owning property abroad.

Following their replies, the top court directed all parties to submit relevant documentary evidence before the court by Tuesday, November 15.

The case has been adjourned till November 15.

During the hearing, the top court gave a week’s time to Nawaz’s children to submit evidence and establish that they are legal owners of property abroad.

Justice Asif Saeed Khosa asked the Sharif family’s counsel Salman Aslam Butt to satisfy the court with documentary evidence if he wished to get a ‘clean chit’ for the premier and his family.

The replies contained an explanation for each of the properties mentioned in the case. Earlier, while giving details of the replies presented in the court, a PML-N leader told The Express Tribune

that Nawaz and his children have not transferred any money abroad from Pakistan and therefore have not committed any wrongdoing. “No laws have been infringed upon,” he said.

Not a dependent The court was told that Maryam Nawaz is a taxpayer in her own right and not a dependent.

In her reply, Maryam stated that she is not dependent on PM Nawaz in any way and is not a beneficiary of any foreign property. The reply added that she is a trustee of Nielsen and Nescoll Ltd. — Express Tribune

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

WORLD C O N T R OV E R S I A L L E G I S L AT I O N

China adopts cyber security law to boost national security BEIJING: China adopted a controversial cyber security law on Monday to counter what Beijing says are growing threats such as hacking and terrorism, but the law triggered concerns among foreign business and rights groups.

The legislation, passed by China’s largely rubber-stamp parliament and set to take effect in June 2017, is an “objective need” of China as a major internet power, a parliament official said.

Overseas critics of the law say it threatens to shut foreign technology companies out of various sectors deemed “critical”, and includes contentious requirements for security reviews and for data to be stored on servers in China.

Rights advocates also say the KHAKI BOMBER JACKET

law will enhance restrictions on China’s Internet, already subject to the world’s most sophisticated online censorship mechanism, known outside China as the Great Firewall.

Yang Heqing, an official on the National People’s Congress standing committee, said the Internet was already deeply linked to China’s national security and development. “China is an internet power, and as one of the countries that faces the greatest internet security risks, urgently needs to establish and perfect network security legal systems,” he told reporters at the close of a bimonthly legislative meeting.

More than 40 global business groups petitioned Chinese Pre-

mier Li Keqiang in August, urging Beijing to amend what they said were controversial sections of the law. Chinese officials have said it would not interfere with foreign business interests.

Contentious provisions remained in the final draft issued by the parliament, including requirements for “critical information infrastructure operators” to store personal information and important business data in China, provide unspecified “technical support” to security agencies, and pass national security reviews.

Those demands have raised concerns within companies that fear they would have to hand over intellectual property or open back doors within products in order to

operate in China’s market. James Zimmerman, chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, called the provisions “vague, ambiguous, and subject to broad interpretation by regulatory authorities.”

Human Rights Watch said elements of the law, such as criminalising the use of the Internet to “damage national unity”, would further restrict online freedom.

“Despite widespread international concern from corporations and rights advocates for more than a year, Chinese authorities pressed ahead with this restrictive law without making meaningful changes,” Sophie Richardson, China Director at Human Rights Watch, said in an emailed state-

ment. Zhao Zeliang, director of the Cyberspace Administration of China’s cyber security coordination bureau, told reporters that every article in the law accorded with rules of international trade, and China would not close the door on foreign companies.

“They believe that [phrases such as] secure and independent control, secure and reliable, that these are signs of trade protectionism.

That they are synonymous. This is a kind of misunderstanding, a kind of prejudice,” Zhao said.

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang told a regular press briefing that the law was similar to other countries’ rules and did not distinguish between foreign and Chinese companies

Many of the provisions had been previously applied in practice, but their formal codification coincides with China’s adoption of a series of other regulations on national security and foreign civil society groups.

Last year, Beijing adopted a sweeping national security law that aimed to make all key network infrastructure and information systems “secure and controllable”.

“China’s government has come to recognise that cyberspace immediately and profoundly impacts on many if not all aspects of national security,” said Rogier Creemers, a researcher in the law and governance of China at Leiden University in the Netherlands. — Reuters

Two Hong Kong lawmakers barred from taking office The move by China

SPARKING BUZZ: President Joko

Widodo in Jakarta, Indonesia, on Friday. – Antara Foto via Reuters

Indonesian president makes fashion statement JAKARTA: Indonesian President Joko Widodo called for calm after a violent protest by hardliners last week, yet it was his khaki bomber jacket that excited social media and triggered a rush by Indonesians to snap up similar clothing across the country.

The president, who normally wears a simple, white long-sleeved shirt, is rarely seen as a fashion icon by young Indonesians, who are among the world’s biggest users of social media like Twitter and Facebook. But Twitter was abuzz for hours with speculation over the brand of the jacket Widodo wore in a televised appearance shortly after midnight on Friday, in which he blamed ‘political actors’ for stirring trouble at a rally.

An executive at an Indonesian company that owns the franchise rights for Zara in the country said the jacket in question was made by the Spanish clothing retailer and it was already sold out in almost all of its stores. “The demand for these jackets keeps coming and we have placed a repeat order for them,” Fetty Kwartati, corporate secretary of PT Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk, told Reuters by telephone.

A Zara employee at a Jakarta shopping mall said customers had bought more than 100 of the jackets, which sell for 899,900 rupiah ($69) each, in just a few days and the store was trying to re-stock as fast as possible.

Local media reported that they were also sold out in other Indonesian cities like Surabaya. “Everybody started talking about it,” said Rovan, a 25-year-old hotel worker who was trying out the jacket. “After I saw it on social media, I am kind of interested in it.” — Reuters

came after proindependence lawmakers Yau Waiching and Baggio Leung pledged allegiance to the ‘Hong Kong nation’ and displayed a banner declaring ‘Hong Kong is not China’

HONG KONG/BEIJING: China’s parliament passed a ruling on Monday that effectively bars two elected Hong Kong pro-independence politicians from taking office, Beijing’s most direct intervention in the territory’s legal and political system since the 1997 handover.

The rare move by Beijing came after Yau Wai-ching, 25, and Baggio Leung, 30, pledged allegiance to the “Hong Kong nation” and displayed a banner declaring “Hong Kong is not China” during a swearing-in ceremony for the city’s Legislative Council in October. The National People’s Congress in Beijing ruled that lawmakers must swear allegiance to Hong Kong as part of China and that candidates would be disqualified if they changed the wording of their oath of office or if they failed to take it in a sincere and solemn manner.

The prospect of the ruling sparked protests in the former British colony on Sunday and it is now on high alert for any repeat of the weekend clashes. Members of the city’s legal profession are planning a rare silent march on Tuesday night amid pressure for them to take even stronger action.

Britain returned Hong Kong to Chinese control in 1997 under a “one country, two systems” formula that gives the territory wideranging autonomy, including

DISQUALIFIED: Baggio Leung, left, and Yau Wai-ching, right, of the Youngspirations organisation march during a protest in Hong Kong

on Saturday. China’s parliament passed an interpretation of Hong Kong’s Basic Law that says lawmakers must swear allegiance to the city as part of China. – AFP

judicial freedom guided by a miniconstitution called the Basic Law. The protests on Sunday night were reminiscent of pro-democracy protests in late 2014 that paralysed parts of the Asian financial centre and posed one of the greatest political challenges to the central government in Beijing in decades. “This incident shows us the Basic Law is a handicapped legal document and the so-called miniconstitution can be amended and controlled by the Chinese Communist Party at will,” said Joshua Wong, 20, one of the leaders of the 2014 protests.

Britain’s concern Foreign diplomats were watching closely, stressing the importance of the rule of the law to the city’s international reputation.

Britain said it was concerned.

“We urge the Chinese and Hong Kong (special administrative region) governments, and all elected politicians in Hong Kong to refrain from any actions that fuel concerns or undermine confi-

dence in the one country, two systems principle,” a Foreign Office spokeswoman said.

While the controversial decision effectively bars the two proindependence Hong Kong politicians from being sworn in, a court in the city must still rule on the case in a judicial review, taking Beijing’s decision into consideration. The promotion of independence has long been taboo in Hong Kong amid fears in Beijing it could spread among other activists and challenge the central government’s rule. “The nature of Hong Kong independence is to split the country. It seriously violates the ‘one country, two systems’ policy,” said Li Fei, chairman of the parliament’s Basic Law Committee.

“The Central Government is highly concerned about the grave dangers the Hong Kong independence forces bring to the country and to Hong Kong.”

Hong Kong leader Leung Chunying, who has governed during some of the city’s most violent and divisive times in decades, said his

government would fully implement China’s interpretation of the mini-constitution.

But Legislative Council president Andrew Leung said the Hong Kong judicial review needed to be completed before confirming if the pair were disqualified.

Simon Young, a professor at Hong Kong University’s law school, said he was still evaluating the ruling but it did seem to bar Leung and Yau from taking office. “I do worry we are only going to see more interpretations, and attempts by the NPC to flesh out local laws, if they really want to stop the separatists,” Young told Reuters, referring to China’s parliament.

Darragh Paradiso, a spokesperson for the US Consulate General Hong Kong and Macau, said by phone the United States strongly valued Hong Kong’s independent judiciary. “It is unfortunate that this particular situation was not resolved within Hong Kong’s Legislative Council or within its wellrespected courts,” she said.

The Basic Law grants China’s

NPC a power of interpretation above Hong Kong’s highest court.

While it has made four other rulings since 1997, this ruling is its first move to preempt an ongoing Hong Kong court case. Hong Kong Justice Secretary Rimsky Yuen said he still believed the oath-taking controversy could be resolved locally, but he also had every confidence that the city’s judiciary would uphold the rule of law. Beijing’s decision represents some of the worst privately held fears of senior judges and some government officials in Hong Kong, according to sources close to them.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lu Kang said at a regular press briefing he hoped the international community would see the decision reflected the will of the Chinese people.

James To, a lawmaker with the Democratic Party, said the central government had undermined Hong Kong’s judicial process.

“In future, people’s confidence in ‘one country, two systems’ will worsen,” To said. — Reuters

FEARS ABOUT BEIJING’S INFLUENCE

Malaysian PM risks backlash at home after deals with China KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak is facing grumblings back home that he is “selling off” his country after returning from China with about $34 billion worth of deals, which could help lift the economy ahead of elections.

The concerns emerge from a deep-seated distrust of the Chinese among Malaysia’s MalayMuslim majority, who form the support base for the ruling United Malay National Organisation (UMNO). Najib was quick to dismiss the concerns after concluding his six-day visit to China.

“Some have scaremongered that Malaysia is being sold off. This is absurd and absolutely false,” Najib said in a statement on Friday, insisting the projects will be owned and run by Malaysians.

The deals include Malaysia’s

first significant defence deal with China, an agreement to buy four Chinese naval vessels.

Najib’s visit followed that of Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, who announced his country’s “separation” from the United States and signed agreements and loan pledges worth an estimated $24 billion with Beijing.

UMNO leaders expect Najib to brief them soon so the party can start allaying any fears about China’s rising influence in Malaysia, said Shahidan Kassim, a senior member of the party’s supreme council and a federal minister.

“All of this has its pros and cons, but in UMNO we must have a policy statement on this,” he told Reuters.

Ethnicity and religion are sensitive issues in Malaysia, where Muslim Malays form a little over

pride’ rally blocked off Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur in a show of strength following an antigovernment rally dominated by Malaysian-Chinese. Najib’s government summoned China’s ambassador over his remarks ahead of the “Malay pride’ rally.

BOOSTING TIES: Prime Minister Najib Razak, left, and China’s Pre-

mier Li Keqiang at the Great Hall of the People, in Beijing. – Reuters File

50 per cent of the population of 31 million. Ethnic Chinese make up about 25 per cent and ethnic Indians about 7 per cent. Malaysia’s ethnic Chinese have long been a scapegoat for the Malay community, with UMNO leaders pointing

to ethnic Chinese economic dominance to unite Malays and keep a firm grip on political power.

Last year, ethnic ties became strained under the weight of two opposing demonstrations largely split along racial lines. A ‘Malay

Protest Clashes are expected again this year as thousands of anti-government demonstrators plan to protest in Kuala Lumpur on November 19, calling for Najib to resign over the money-laundering scandal linked to Malaysian state investment fund, One Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

A member of UMNO’s policymaking Supreme Council, Irmohizam Ibrahim, said Najib’s deals with China have stoked concerns among party leaders.

“We’re expecting the prime minister to address these issues at our next Supreme Council meeting,” Irmohizam told Reuters.

“We will then need to go down and explain to the grassroots that... the deals are purely for the economy and trade,” said Irmohizam, who also serves as Najib’s strategic director in the party.

Malaysia’s opposition is questioning the China agreements but for different reasons, saying it is tilting the country toward Beijing.

“Malaysia’s economic dependence on any single nation is unreasonable and will affect the country’s freedom and geo-political strategy and foreign policy,” jailed opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim said in a statement issued from prison.

Najib is planning elections in the second half of 2017, a government source has told Reuters. — Reuters

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

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WORLD

Zarif meets Lebanon new president Aoun The Christian leader also met an envoy sent by Syrian President Bashar Al Assad earlier in the day

BEIRUT: Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif on Monday became the first foreign minister to meet Lebanon’s new president.

A Christian leader and close ally of Lebanon’s Hezbollah who was elected president last week, Aoun also met an envoy sent by Syrian President Bashar Al Assad earlier in the day.

Iran, which welcomed Aoun’s election as a victory for Hezbollah, is a political and military ally of Assad in the Syrian civil war.

Assad’s troops are supported by Iran-backed militias and Hezbollah fighters from neighbouring Lebanon.

High profile delegation Speaking on arrival at Beirut airport, Zarif, who was accompanied by a high profile political and economic delegation, said he hoped to expand ties with Lebanon.

Former army commander Michel Aoun was elected by the Lebanese parliament as president last Monday, ending a 29-month presidential vacuum. Aoun then

STRENGTHENING RELATIONS: A handout picture provided by the Lebanese photo agency Dalati and Nohra on Monday, shows President Michel Aoun, centre, meeting Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, centre-left, at the Presidential palace in Baabda. —AFP/HO/ALATI AND NOHRA

asked Saad Al Hariri to start consultations to form a new government of which Hariri would be prime minister.

The empty presidency was a symptom of an underlying political struggle between rival factions in Lebanon, which has been made worse by the war in neighbouring Syria.

It has paralysed decision-making, economic development and basic services, and raised fears for the country’s stability.

The deal to appoint Aoun as president and Hariri as prime

minister has underscored Hezbollah’s dominant role in Lebanon.

Syrian envoy Mansour Azzam, who is head of presidential affairs, greeted Aoun on behalf of Syria’s Assad, saying he hoped Aoun’s election would contribute to stability in Lebanon and in the region.

No-new page Azzam said there would be “no new page” in Syria-Lebanon relations and they would continue in a balanced way.

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Aoun’s meetings with Iranian and Syrian dignitaries came on the same day as Prime Minister-designate Hariri said Lebanon’s new administration was a chance to revive ties with the Gulf Arab countries.

“The formation of the government is a chance to renew the emphasis on Lebanon’s Arab identity and return momentum and heat to Lebanon’s relations with its brethren in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC),” Hariri said after meeting GCC ambassadors to Lebanon. — Reuters

S TAT E M E N T B Y W H O

‘Disease stalks Yemen as hospitals devastated by war’ LONDON: More than half of warbattered Yemen’s hospitals and clinics are closed or only partially functioning, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said on Monday, warning a lack of adequate health services was increasing the risk of disease outbreaks.

Only 45 per cent of 3,507 health facilities surveyed by WHO were fully functional and accessible, while more than 40 per cent of districts faced a “critical” shortage of doctors, WHO said.

“These critical shortages in health services mean that more people are deprived of access to life-saving interventions,” WHO said in a statement. “Absence of adequate communicable diseases management increases the risk of outbreaks such cholera, measles, malaria and other endemic diseases.”

The 18-month-old conflict between a Saudi Arabia-led coalition and the Houthi group which con-

trols much of northern Yemen has destroyed much of Yemen’s infrastructure, killed more than 10,000 people and displaced millions.

UNICEF says the humanitarian disaster in the country has left 7.4 million children in need of medical help and 370,000 at risk of severe acute malnutrition.

Yemen’s Health Ministry announced a cholera outbreak in early October in the capital Sanaa. By the end of the month, WHO said the number of suspected cholera cases had ballooned to more than 1,400. In 42 per cent of 276 districts surveyed by WHO there were only two doctors or less, while in nearly a fifth of districts there were none.

WHO said new mothers and their babies lacked essential ante-natal care and immunisation services, while people suffering from acute or chronic conditions were forced to spend more on treatment or forgo treatment altogether. — Thomson Reuters Foundation

DIRE STRAITS: The United Nations Special Envoy to Yemen Ismail

Ould Cheikh Ahmed speaks during a press conference ahead of his departure at Sanaa international airport, on Monday. — AFP

IMPORT OF AIRCRAFT

Iran’s Airbus jet purchase gets boost from lease finance deal: Sources SINGAPORE/ANKARA: Iran has reached a deal with a foreign leasing company to finance the first 17 jets it plans to buy from Airbus, breaking a logjam in efforts to import aircraft following the lifting of sanctions, people familiar with the move said.

The deal removes a significant hurdle to securing the first tranche of jets, following uncertainty over financing and political opposition in the United States and Iran, though the sources caution months of talking have thrown up new potential hurdles. Iranian officials declined to name the lessor involved, but industry sources said in September that Iran was in advanced talks with the United Arab Emirates’ Dubai Aerospace about helping to finance the purchase.

“We have a deal to finance the first 17 aircraft,” a senior Iranian official told Reuters, without elaborating.

Dubai Aerospace and Airbus both declined to comment.

Under the deal, the leasing company would take over part of Iran’s order for dozens of new jetliners and then lease them to

the country’s flag carrier. A similar mechanism could be used to finance a provisional order for 20 turboprops from ATR, which is half-owned by Airbus, one of the people said. ATR had no immediate comment.

Tehran provisionally ordered more than 100 jets each from Airbus and Boeing this year after a deal with major powers to lift most sanctions on Iran in exchange for curbs on nuclear activities.

Completing the rest of the Airbus deal depends on receiving US export licences because of the number of US components in the aircraft.

US licences So far Airbus has US licences for 17 jets.

Airbus will unusually be paid in euros, avoiding dollars typically used by the aircraft industry.

The US financial system remains closed to Iran under core sanctions dating back to the Islamic Republic’s 1979 revolution.

Talks are expected to resume soon between Iran and Boeing to finalise the US company’s deal to

MAKING HEADWAY: Airbus chief executive Fabrice Bregier, right,

Iran Air chief Executive Farhad Parvaresh, left, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, rear left, and French President Francois Hollande attend a bilateral political, cultural and economic agreements signing ceremony at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, on January 28, 2016. — Reuters/Stephane De Sakutin/Pool/Files

sell or lease more than 100 jets: A transaction that could also involve third parties.

A Middle East spokesman for Boeing, Fakher Daghestani, said it had been allowed by the US government to talk to approved

OBITUARY

Janet Reno, first US woman attorney general, dies aged 78 WASHINGTON: Janet Reno, the first woman US attorney general who served eight tumultuous years with President Bill Clinton, has died aged 78. Reno’s goddaughter, Gabrielle D’Alemberte, said she succumbed to complications of Parkinson’s disease early on Monday in Miami.

The blunt-spoken lawyer worked as the top US law enforcement official under Clinton from 1993 to 2001, becoming the longest-serving attorney general of the 20th century.

Deadly raid Just weeks into the job, she authorised the deadly 1993 raid on the Branch Davidian cult compound at Waco, Texas.

Reno later authorised federal agents to seize six-year-old Cuban shipwreck survivor Elian Gonzalez from relatives in Miami in 2000, and headed the Justice Department during the government’s huge antitrust case against Microsoft.

The former Miami prosecutor,

She always said she made decisions based on evidence and the law.

Reno was only 38 days into the attorney general’s job when she approved the April 19, 1993, FBI raid that led to the deaths of about 80 people, including many children, at the Waco cult compound.

Janet Reno

picked by Clinton after his first two choices for the job ran into trouble at the confirmation stage, exhibited an independent streak and a brusque manner that often upset the White House.

Reno weathered White House complaints that she was not a team player and that she sought too many special prosecutors to investigate cases, including the Whitewater affair involving the finances of the president and first lady Hillary Clinton.

Warrant Federal agents had earlier tried to serve a warrant on the cult’s leader, David Koresh for stockpiling weapons.

Four agents and six cult members were killed in an ensuing shootout, leading to a 51-day standoff.

With negotiations at an impasse, Reno gave the go-ahead for the raid after hearing reports of child abuse in the compound.

The raid on the heavily armed cultists ended in an inferno that engulfed the site.

“I made the decision. I’m accountable. The buck stops with me,” a grim-looking Reno told a later news conference. — Reuters

Iranian airlines and that any final agreements would need further US approval.

The airplane deals represent a big economic prize for Western companies and also help the Iranian supporters of a more open rela-

tionship with the West after years of near isolation.

But negotiations have been held up by the reluctance of many Western banks to provide finance, fearing a regulatory backlash if there is a new setback in relations.

In particular they are concerned that the outcome of Tuesday’s US presidential election could lead to a new set of sanctions.

Republican candidate Donald Trump and conservatives in Congress have heavily criticised the nuclear deal.

Sources say the government of President Hassan Rouhani is keen to finalise contracts before the end of Iran’s fiscal year in March, boosting chances of securing the first high-profile delivery in time for Iran’s own presidential elections in May. “We have deadlines to meet,” the Iranian official said. Rouhani, who is seen in Iran as a pragmatist, has been harshly criticised by hardline rivals over the deals aimed at renewing Iran’s ageing air fleet.

“Rouhani wants to secure his second-term election ... Planes are not top of the list of what the coun-

try needs,” said a hardline lawmaker, who asked not to be identified.

A second senior Iranian government official said at least 20 Western airplanes would be added to Iran’s fleet by March 2017, followed by another 25 over the following four months.

“Our main priority is our nation’s safety,” the official said in reference to Iran’s old fleet and patchy safety record.

“That’s why the government is purchasing new planes.” Iran agreed in January to buy 118 Airbus jets, including 12 A380s, the world’s largest jetliner. The A380 part of the deal has already been thrown into doubt after Tehran conservatives objected that most Iranians would not benefit from the long-distance jet.

The A380s are only options, one Iranian official said.

Around six smaller jets that were originally meant to be delivered this year have also been discarded due to the delays in receiving US approvals, meaning the Airbus order - if completed - would involve no more than 100 jets, the sources said. — Reuters

A12

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

WORLD Clinton, Trump chase last-minute support in race for White House Obama and first lady Michelle Obama, as well as rock star Bruce Springsteen.

Speaking briefly to reporters before boarding her campaign plane in Pittsburgh, Clinton pressed her commitment to bringing the country together.

“I think that these splits, these divides that have been not only exposed but exacerbated by the campaign on the other side are ones that we really do have to. .. bring the country together,” Clinton said.

The latest opinion polls showed the Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton ahead of her Republican opponent Donald Trump FIGHTING ON: Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump

holds up a mask of himself as he speaks during a campaign rally in Sarasota, Florida, US, on Monday. — Reuters

PITTSBURGH/SARASOTA: Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump crisscrossed the United States on Monday, racing to sway undecided voters and to get their supporters to vote in a tight presidential contest that opinion polls show narrowly favoring Clinton.

With only one day left before Election Day, the Clinton campaign was boosted by Sunday’s unexpected announcement by FBI Director James Comey that the agency stood by its July decision not to press any criminal charges in an investigation of Clinton’s email practices.

The latest opinion polls showed former Secretary of State Clinton ahead.

A Fox News poll showed her leading Trump, a wealthy New York real estate developer, by 4 percentage points among likely voters.

Clinton also held a 4-point lead in an ABC/Washington Post poll and a CBS news poll released on Monday.

Financial markets brightened on Monday in reaction to the latest twists in what has been a rollercoaster presidential campaign.

Global equity markets surged, as did the US dollar, putting them

on track for their biggest gains in weeks as investors saw Sunday’s announcement by Comey as boosting Clinton’s chances of winning.

Opinion polls show a close race, but tilting toward Clinton, 69.

Major bookmakers and online exchanges were more confident than public opinion polling that Clinton will win.

PredictIt put her chances of capturing the White House at 81 per cent.

Both Clinton and Trump, 70, were spending the day racing across a handful of battleground states that could swing the election, given the Electoral College system that awards the White House on the basis of state-bystate wins.

Trump, who had never previously run for public office, held his first campaign appearance of the day in Sarasota, Florida, where he and Clinton have been locked in a tough battle in a state with a large Hispanic-American voting population.

Trump gave no ground to Clinton or to polls showing her with a narrow lead.

UPBEAT: Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton speaks to press before boarding her plane at Westchester County Airport on Monday in White Plains, New York. — AFP

The FBI’sJames Comey sent shockwaves through the race on Sunday when he told Congress that investigators had reviewed recently discovered emails and found no reason to change their July finding that there was no criminal wrongdoing in Clinton’s use of a private email server, rather than a government system, while she was secretary of state from 2009-2013

Predicting he would win, he told supporters in Sarasota that Clinton “is such a phony” and, “We’re tired of being led by stupid people.”

Trump also had stops planned in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire and Michigan, closing with a late-night rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The FBI’s Comey sent shockwaves through the race on Sunday when he told Congress that investigators had reviewed recently discovered emails and found no

reason to change their July finding that there was no criminal wrongdoing in Clinton’s use of a private email server, rather than a government system, while she was secretary of state from 2009-2013.

It was uncertain whether the announcement came in time to change voters’ minds or undo any damage from days of Republican attacks on Clinton as corrupt.

Tens of millions of Americans had cast early votes in the 10 days since Comey first told Congress of

the newly discovered emails.

“Nothing’s going to change between today and tomorrow to help (Clinton) win back” undecided voters, Trump campaign manager Kellyanne Conway said on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”

Trump, who drew wide criticism last month when he said the election was rigged against him and that he would not yet commit to respecting the outcome, questioned the thoroughness of the FBI review and said the issue would not go away.

Tammy Regis, 42, a disabled Army veteran who served in Iraq and now lives in Palmetto, Florida, said she would not trust the outcome if Clinton wins.

“If she wins, no I won’t.

I just think it’s really shady,” Regis said, adding that she did not know why Comey “flip-flopped” on Clinton’s emails.

Clinton was to make two stops in Pennsylvania and visit Michigan on Monday before wrapping up with a midnight rally in Raleigh, North Carolina.

She was to appear at an evening rally at Philadelphia’s Independence Hall with President Barack

Challenged norms Since entering the race in 2015, Trump has challenged political norms with bombast, personal attacks and unorthodox policies, including proposals to bar Muslims from entering the United States and build a wall on the southern border to keep Central Americans from entering illegally.

In October, his campaign was rocked by the circulation of a 2005 video in which he boasted about groping women.

While such controversies have given Clinton the edge among women and minorities, Trump enjoys solid support among noncollege educated whites.

For both candidates, turning that support into actual votes is critical to building the 270 electoral votes needed to win the election.

Markets have tended to see Clinton as the status quo candidate, with more uncertainty over Trump.

Global financial markets slipped last week as polls showed the race tightening, with news of the renewed FBI investigation apparently fueling a slide in Clinton’s poll numbers since late October.

The latest Reuters/Ipsos poll showed Clinton with a 5 percentage point lead over Trump nationally - 44 per cent to 39 per cent support - while races in Florida and North Carolina shifted from favoring Clinton to being too close to call.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

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1 Job visa fees for expats to rise

1 Police issue warning over

by 50 per cent in Oman

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2 Future-fit second runway of

Muscat airport in 2017, says Oman Air CEO timesofoman.com/Oman

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TIMESOFOMAN.COM/TIMESTV Following Times of Oman’s investigation that revealed Sri Lankan housemaids are being sold illegally in Oman, Sri Lanka ordered an inquiry

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government deserves credit for cobbling together the political coalition needed to pass such a complex reform, getting the nod from a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament and 50 per cent of state assemblies.

But the government may now be undermining its own victory

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READERS’ FORUM Streets must be kept walker-friendly This refers to the story. Oman roads: Time to make Muscat streets more friendly for pedestrians (November 6). There are not enough walkways in places like Ruwi, where during weekends and holidays people throng for shopping and relaxation. The multiple benefits of having walker-friendly streets and surroundings add value to health and it is everyone’s responsibility to preserve it. The crowded Ruwi street often appears filthy as waste is thrown and people spit on the walkways. — Ramachandran Nair, Ruwi 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 e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com).

Job visa fee hike possibly a prelude to removal of NOC This refers to the story. Job visa fees for expats to rise by 50 per cent in Oman (November 6).

This is potentially a positive sign as a prelude to removing the NOC later this month. Part of the reason the NOC rule was enforced was to stop expats rapidly changing jobs for the sake of a few rials after the employer had invested in travel, training etc. This may deter some from doing that. Of course there is the other side of the coin, ie, the unscrupulous employer or sponsor. The government needs to face up to if it wants to attract the right foreign workers to Oman.

—Graham Inett, via Facebook

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

“Insure with New India and be secure”

Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com There art two cardinal sins from which all others spring: Impatience and Laziness

FRANZ KAFKA

Can Lebanon escape the resource curse?

ARYEH NEIER

Under the 2002 Rome Statute, which established the court, a country remains an International Criminal Court member for at least one year after it notifies the UN of its intent to withdraw. Moreover, that country is required to continue cooperating with the ICC on any proceedings that began prior to the effective withdrawal date

fter two and a half years without a president, Lebanon’s Parliament has elected Michel Aoun to the post. Now, Lebanon can turn its attention to oil and gas production, with policymakers’ expectations running high – verging on irrational exuberance – that an energy windfall will jumpstart the country’s economy, which has suffered from poor political and economic governance and the spillover effects from Syria’s civil war.

Lebanon’s potential hydrocarbon wealth could indeed transform the country, as well as providing a model for other Middle Eastern energy producers to follow. But policymakers must be mindful of four major risks. For starters, oil and gas prices are volatile, and fossil fuels in general have an uncertain future. Oil and gas prices have declined by some 60 per cent since June 2014, and it is unlikely that they will recover over the medium term. We are in the age of oil’s “new normal,” defined by plentiful alternative energy sources. Second, the size of Lebanon’s recoverable energy reserves is uncertain. Equally important, even under the most optimistic scenarios, the country’s capacity to manage oil and gas extraction, production, and distribution is uncertain as well.

Third, ongoing territorial disputes in the region – and the absence of agreed maritime borders with Cyprus, Israel, and Syria – creates legal uncertainty about who owns and may exploit certain oil and gas blocks. Fourth, Lebanon’s leaders must deal with its dysfunctional politics and dismal governance, which are likely to frustrate any attempt to manage its natural resources transparently and sustainably.

So, can Lebanon escape the curse of the “devil’s excrement” that has afflicted many of its Middle Eastern neighbours?

The International Monetary Fund’s estimate of Lebanon’s potential oil and gas revenues optimistically assumes that production will start in 2021, reach full capacity by 2036, and continue until 2056. In this scenario, once production starts, resource revenues would constitute about 2.8 per cent of Lebanon’s non-oil GDP, and would account for about 9 per cent of government revenues at peak production, before gradually declining.

But even if oil and gas blocks are auctioned off almost immediately, in 2017, and then successfully explored, the resulting revenues would not arrive until 2022 at the earliest. Manna from heaven is not about to fall on Lebanon. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s new leadership must address the government’s dismal

fiscal predicament, including a 2016 budget deficit amounting to 8.1 per cent of GDP and government debt totaling 144 per cent of GDP – one of the highest public-debt ratios in the world. This means that Lebanon must undergo strong fiscal adjustments sooner, rather than later, and that any future oil and gas revenues will have to be heavily discounted.

But Lebanon’s governance is the more critical issue, because the country must now build a foundation to manage its fossil-fuel wealth properly. The main lesson from other resource-rich countries is that, in the absence of good governance – strong institutions, the rule of law, effective regulations – Lebanon’s energy windfall will likely lead to more corruption, as special interests and politicians try to capture the rents for themselves.

With Lebanese politics persistently in a quagmire, the new leadership must establish a sound fiscal regime and a robust governance framework to ensure transparency in energy exploitation and production, fiscal sustainability, and intergenerational equity. It can do so if it follows the right roadmap.

First, to guarantee that Lebanon’s natural resources are prudently managed, the government should formally join the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative. The EITI would require government agencies and companies to disclose information relating to hydrocarbon extraction and production. This would include contracts and licenses; details about how blocks – and exploration and production rights – are auctioned and awarded; revenue figures, to ensure that companies comply with the “Publish What You Pay” principle; environmental-impact studies; and reports on how the government allocates its revenues. Second, Lebanon should formally adopt the Natural Resource Charter. The Charter’s 12 precepts to guide stakeholders’ decision-making should be integrated into relevant legislation and regulations by the Lebanese government, Parliament, applicable regulatory agencies, and civil-society actors such as the Lebanon Oil and Gas Initiative. Third, Lebanon should establish an independent energy regulator, by making the Lebanese Petroleum Administration independent from the Ministry of Energy and Water and widen its mandate to manage Lebanon’s natural resources.

– Project Syndicate.

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES OCTOBER 2001 Gulf neurology conference opens MUSCAT: Dr Hamad bin Sulaiman Al Salmi, vicepresident of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) opened the second Arab Gulf Cooperation Council (AGCC) neurology conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel here yesterday. The two-day conference is being attended by neurologists from the six AGCC states - Oman, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar and Bahrain. In his opening speech, Dr Salmi said new advances were taking place in medicine all the time and the doctors are constantly being required to update their knowledge.

TODAY IN HISTORY INVITATION TO WRITERS We invite our readers to write articles on topics related to Oman. The articles should not exceed 800 words.

Send us your article along with your picture to akhtar@timesofoman.com

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PICTOGRAPH

PUBLIC FINANCE OIL PRODUCTION EXPENDITURE (in million Omani Rials) Total end of May 2015

2016

309.5

290.9

1576: The 17 provinces of the Netherlands form a federation to maintain peace.

1793: The Louvre opens to the pubic in Paris.

1864: President Abraham Lincoln is re-elected in the first wartime election in the United States.

0

1990: US and UK invade Axis-occupied North Africa

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

A 14

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

LIFESTYLE DINING

StoryĹ&#x2022; 1 .#Ĺ&#x2022; -!/*.

one are those days when being vegetarian was all about eating greens or some legumes. With so many innovative ways to present vegetarian food, vegetarianism is no more just about eating a handful of vegetables cooked in simple mediocre ways; it has not just become more creative, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deliciously made too with immense precision and care.

Seeing the rising number of vegetarians, most of the restaurants in town are gearing up to serve the needs of this new clientele. I was a born hardcore non-vegetarian, and no meal would ever seem complete without a piece of ďŹ sh and chicken on plate until I started experimenting with global cuisines that were completely different from the ones that I used to have from momâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen. Most of the dishes were not just new to my palate but some were so different in taste and cooking that at times I had to feign vegetarianism as a defence mechanism against those dishes that I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t sure of. And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s when I got drawn towards this cruelty-free haute cuisine, where having meatless dishes became more of a choice than a compulsion.

From Pythagoras and George Bernard Shaw to Paul McCartney the tribe of vegetarians have grown over the years who like to sink their teeth into the most delicious food and yet do not have to worry about biting down on a bad piece of meat.

While the Indian vegetarian cuisine is considered to be the highest and the most sophisticated form of vegetarian cooking with elaborate menu, while travelling in other parts of the world I realised that there are many global vegetarian cuisines that are equally delicious and making them involves painstaking and intricate culinary skills.

I wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have known about this global vegetarian cuisine if I had not stopped at a petrol ďŹ lling station in a remote town in Czech Republic during one of my holidays. While each one of us quickly grabbed a meaty burger, our guide cum driver, a Czech national, headed towards a different outlet for his bite. Overwhelmed with curiosity we asked him the reason and was surprised to learn that he has been a vegan by choice for years, despite the fact that being a vegetarian in the Czech Republic wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t very easy for him in his initial days. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Few years back restaurants here would

Seeing the rising number of vegetarians, most of the restaurants in town are gearing up to serve the needs of this new clientele.

have hardly any options as vegetarian dishes remained a mere afterthought, but now things have changed,â&#x20AC;? he said.

And in few days with him I realised getting a vegan meal wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t at all difďŹ cult in a country where I had thought meat was unavoidable and eating out was always a struggle for those who were vegetarian or were choosy about the meat, like me. From burgers and wraps, to salads and sandwiches it was heart-warming at times to walk into a restaurant and eat vegetarian food. Vegan pizza, with vegan cheese as topping still remain etched in my mind.

Few months back in Muscat, on a visit to the new sushi outlet in town called Sumo Sushi I was totally bowled over by their vegetariansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; options. For me sushi meant ďŹ sh or seafood and it was quite a surprise to know that there were many varieties of sushi that vegetarians could enjoy.

Be it the Forbidden Roll that is avocado, cucumber and asparagus rolled with black sushi rice and topped with a homemade kozo dressing or Kappa Maki that is cucumber wrapped in sushi rice and surrounded with nori or edible seaweed, choices were plenty at the

restaurant. There were even Tofu Steak, Veggie Bento, and more. Similarly at Kusharina, the only Egyptian restaurant in town, the Egyptian specialty Kushari is a pure vegetarian dish. A popular food available in roadside eateries and food stalls in Egypt. This dish is a combination of pasta, rice, and lentil with a spicy topping of tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. It is often served with a spoonful of cooked chickpeas on top.

So whether you are globetrotting or right here in Muscat, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no denying that the world is gradually becoming a hot spot for vegetarian cuisine. Eat your way around the world. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;swati@timesofoman.com Global Vegetarian Fare in Muscat Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022; !Ĺ&#x2022; /-"#Ĺ&#x2022; .Ĺ&#x2022; /')Ĺ&#x2022; /-"#Ăż , +Ĺ&#x2022; &Ĺ&#x2022; " ..#Ĺ&#x2022; && +968 2460 7050 Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022; ,#-*3Ĺ&#x2022; ,# Ĺ&#x2022; ! . & Ĺ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022; .Ĺ&#x2022; )& (Ĺ&#x2022; ,32Ĺ&#x2022; /1#ĂżĹ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022; +968 2470 2266 Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022;Ĺ&#x2022; /-" ,#Ĺ&#x2022; .Ĺ&#x2022; /-" ,#( /,/'Ăż +968 2202 7011 Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2022; ( "#& -Ĺ&#x2022; .Ĺ&#x2022; &#-"ĂżĹ&#x2022; /,/' + 968 2456 3656

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

WEATHER

TEMPERATURE

PRAYER TIMINGS

HUMIDITY

32 - 22 72-41% 0

0

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

11.56pm 3.06pm 5.29pm 6.42pm 4.59am

A1 5

LIFESTYLE

This Weekend Eat At…

Pictures Salim Al Afifi

Kurkum Restaurant

Where Kurkum Restaurant Must Eat Rogan Josh Curry Price OMR9.000 What is it?

A flavourful, thick, brown onion gravy cooked with big pieces of fresh boneless lamb.

Also Try Don’t forget to try their chicken with pickling spices, a mildly spiced, creamy dish made of Indian spices and yoghurt, and cooked with boneless chicken. And, if you fancy some seafood lunching, try their spicy prawn with spring onion, jumbo prawns cooked in a dense, mild sauce, and tossed with tomatoes and spring onions.

What’s Special Kurkum is a cosy restaurant located in the bustling, iconic corniche of Muttrah, where they serve a mix of authentic Indian cuisine, and a blend of Asian infused dishes. The restaurant is small in size but serves some of the tastiest curries in town, cooked perfectly and presented in huge portions that are enough for two. The prices might be a bit higher than other Indian restaurants in town, but think quality.

Besides, having a curry by the corniche is a heaven on earth in itself.

Another factor that makes this place unique, is the all-white interior that it sports, from the sofas, to the tabletops, to the plates. It’s definitely set to brighten your day any day.—salim@timesofoman.com Location Muttrah Corniche, Muscat +968 2471 4114 kurkumoman.com E AT I N G OU T

KITCHEN TIPS

9 Time-saving Kitchen Hacks

Signature Friday Brunch at Radisson Blu Hotel Muscat RADISSON BLU HOTEL Muscat has re-launched its popular Friday Brunch at Olivos Restaurant and Terrace. Muscat’s favourite Friday brunch is back with fresh concepts created by their talented chefs where guests can discover delectable cuisine influenced by global culinary destinations.

Friday Brunch welcomes adults and children to an exciting experience of new and improved concepts set amid spectacular views of hotel garden and swimming pool. A wide spread scrumptious buffet and live stations invites guests to choose between the ‘Friday Bubbly Brunch’ and ‘Friday Brunch’. Children will be entertained with activities including face painting, balloon sculpting, and more.

“Our team is delighted to re-

launch the Friday Brunch as it will offer guests a fun way to relax and enjoy their weekend in Muscat. Guests can explore our lively brunch and enjoy some new concepts,” said Mohamad Yassine, Cluster General Manager, Radisson Blu Hotels, Muscat and Sohar. Brunch is available every Friday, from 12:30pm to 4:00pm at the Olivos Restaurant with indoor and outdoor garden/lawn seating and priced at OMR20 per person inclusive of soft beverages and OMR28 per person inclusive of selected house beverages.

Children aged between 5 and 12 receive a 50% discount and free access to the hotel swimming pool during these hours.

For reservations, email reservations.muscat@radissonclu.com call +968 2448 7777.

—lifestyle@timesofoman.com

NO MATTER HOW BIG or small the group, gathering with loved ones over a delicious meal is a season essential. However, if you’ve offered to host the event, panic is likely to set in as you realise the amount of work it’s going to take to cook a memorable meal for friends and family. Fortunately, with some tips and tricks, cooking a feast doesn’t have to be stressful. Just use these time-saving kitchen hacks and you can enjoy more time savouring the season with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

Utilise the slow cooker Slow cookers are one of the most useful tools when hosting a holiday meal. You can cook early and keep virtually anything warm, including gravy, mashed potatoes or drinks like hot chocolate and cider. Need more slow cookers than you own?

Borrow from friends or hunt down

some at a bargain price at secondhand stores.

Prepare side dishes early Prepare as much as you can in advance. In the week leading up to the event, chop, boil, and blend whatever you can to save countless hours in the kitchen. You’ll cut down on stress and have enough time to visit with guests as they begin to arrive.

Use multitasking methods What if you could make a quick dinner in one simple step? With meals that taste like homemade and use high-quality ingredients allows you to serve signature holiday meals without the extra work.

The guests will be thinking you slaved away in the kitchen, but all you had to do is open and close the oven.

Buy cooking mesh From blanching to boiling, you

can quickly run out of stove-top space when cooking a holiday meal. To save time and space, use cooking mesh so you can boil several foods at once in the same pot of water while keeping items conveniently separated.

Fluffy mashed potatoes Whipping up a big batch of mashed potatoes? To avoid dense spuds and save time endlessly mashing, use a pinch of baking powder when whipping. The baking powder reacts with the heat from the potatoes to create tiny air pockets and, ultimately, fluffy mashed potatoes.

Grate frozen butter Baking a special dessert for the holidays? Rather than waiting for frozen butter to thaw or risk melting it in the microwave, use a cheese grater instead. Hard butter thaws quickly when shredded.

Keep drinks outdoors Fridge space goes fast when hosting a holiday soiree, so instead of worrying about where you’re going to fit cans and bottles, put them outside instead. The winter chill will keep them cool and you won’t have to give up precious fridge space. Just hang a sign so guests are directed to the right location to quench their thirst.

Clean as you go Rather than cooking everything at once only to end up with an unbearable amount of dishes, try cleaning as you go. By multitasking you’ll end up with less mess at the end when all you want to do is sit down with a slice of pie and visit with loved ones.

Embrace simplicity Following a big day of entertaining, a break by re-purposing leftovers and weaving in quality, alreadyprepared meals from your freezer.

—BPT

A16

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

LIFESTYLE

VERMICELLI Vermicelli Pie Cook 1 packet vermicelli and drain. Stir 2 tablespoons butter and 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese into the hot vermicelli. Add 2 well beaten eggs, stir well and bake at 350 degrees uncovered, until set. Set aside. Crumble 500g ground beef, in a skillet. Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and 1/2 cup chopped green pepper. Cook over medium heat until meat is browned. Stir in 1 can stewed tomatoes, 1 can tomato paste, 1/2 teaspoon garlic sauce, 3/4 teaspoon dried whole oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cover and cook for about 10 minutes over low heat; set aside. Spread 1 cup cream cottage cheese, evenly over pie shell. Top with meat sauce, cover with aluminium foil and bake at 250 degrees C for 15 minutes; sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese. Bake until cheese begins to melt. Garnish with 12 slices pepperoni and chopped parsley. Bake uncovered for about 5 more minutes.

ONE INGREDIENT NGREDIENT

FIVE WAYS

Vermicelli Pilaf Take 1 cup rice, 1/2 cup broken vermicelli, 3 tablespoon dried chives, 3 chicken seasoning cubes, 1 teaspoon thyme leaves, 3/4 teaspoon onion salt. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add all the above ingredients and sauté until light brown. Add 2 1/2 cups water and simmer, covered, until rice is tender for about 25 minutes.

Vermicelli Soup Take 4 leeks and cut lengthwise.

Sauté it in 3 tablespoons butter for 15 minutes in a pan. Add 2 tablespoons flour and cook for 10 minutes. Separately in a pot boil 4 cups chicken stock, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

Add a cup of this broth into the flour and leek mixture. Add 2 cups milk to it and cook gently, for 10 minutes. Boil the stock again and add 1/2 cup broken vermicelli and cook until soft.

Add this stock to the flour mixture. Serve hot.

Vermicelli Salad Take 1 packet vermicelli and break it and follow instructions for cooking. Drain under cold water to prevent sticking. Add 5 hard boiled eggs, 5 celery stalks finely chopped, 1/4 small yellow onion finely chopped, salt to taste, and 11/2 cups mayonnaise. Mix well.

Refrigerate. Take 2 cans shrimp, drained and chilled. Before serving, add shrimps to the mixture, and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of paprika.

Serve chilled.

Chicken Vermicelli Take 500g chicken and cut into pieces and cook until tender with 2 cups of chicken broth. Take 1 cup of broth from it and cook 2 cups of vermicelli in the remaining broth. In a separate bowl combine 1 can cream of soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of cheese and allow to melt over low heat. In a baking dish layer it as follows. Vermicelli, 1/3 cheese sauce, and chicken. Sprinkle salt and pepper. Top it with the remaining sauce and bake for 30 minutes at 200 degrees C. —lifestyle@timesofoman.com

FOOD NOTE

All you Need to Know about Cajun Blackening Seasoning

The technique of blackening is used all over the world to prepare food in the most delicious way. Spicy flavour and beautiful dark colour are the important attributes for this tasty dish. It was usually used as a recipe for fish preparation, but these days it is being used for all kinds of food including chicken and even vegetables. Cajun blackening seasoning provides a delicious and spicy taste to food, which is loved by people of all age groups. During the recent years, blackening seasoning has made a huge impact on the hearts of people. Now this recipe has evolved from traditional fish recipe to many other foods.

Origin of Blackening Seasoning There is a huge misconception that blackening is a traditional recipe like gumbo. Chef Paul Prudhomme has provided the concept of blackening seasoning to the world in New Orleans. This process was introduced by him nearly 30 years ago. The process has got the attention of people and now it has become most popular in the world. However, in the beginning only fish was used to apply this technique, but later it became popular for all other items. The most popular cajun recipes are cajun blackened fish and catfish.

No Standard Recipe One of the best things about blackening seasoning is that it has no standard recipe like other foods. People can include different ingredients to prepare the dishes on their own way. For most of the recipes, salt and pepper are the essential materials, whereas cayenne, garlic powder, and onions are used according to the various recipes alongside essential ingredients. It is not essential to include all these materials, but suitable materials should be added for a better taste. The process of blackening is applied before the pan sear in hot skillet.

Get the Mixes Right The process of blackening seasoning isn’t much difficult, but it can get wrong if you don’t mix the proportions right. Store bought blackened seasoning mix is preferred by most of the chefs. There is a wide range available to choose from. Usually these are kept with other cajun ingredients. While doing the process, chef has to make sure about selecting the cajun blackened seasoning instead of Creole seasoning as these two are different things. You can check the ingredient list if you have some problems with choosing the brands. To get a more delicious and authentic flavour, make sure to pick the brands having less preservatives and chemicals.

Finishing it Off After doing all the arrangements, you should focus on the cooking process. To start, you will require an iron skillet, some oil and butter along with the required item for cajun blackening seasoning. Start by adding some oil to your skillet and heat on a medium temperature. You should dip the item to the butter before coating it with the cajun blackened seasoning. When the whole process completes, you will get a spicy and dark crust with delicious flavour. — Artipot

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

MARKE

OMAN CRUDE PRICES RISE

Oman Crude (January delivery) increased by 9 cents to $43.38 per barrel, said Dubai Mercantile Exchange (DME). The average price of Oman Crude (November delivery) stabilised at $43.92 per barrel, 10 cents higher than October delivery. – ONA Muscat 5,458.45 - 6.24 - 0.11%

Dubai 3,280.92 + 2.96 + 0.09%

Abu Dhabi 4,288.20 - 3.77 - 0.09%

Saudi Arabia

6,197.68 - 91.37 - 1.50%

SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY LAUNCH THE VIDEO

DIGEST VIDEO Top stories in one minute with our new daily Digest

Kuwait 5,443.24 + 4.06 + 0.07%

Bahrain 1,149.39 + 0.47 + 0.04%

Qatar 9,964.02 + 15.28 + 0.15%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.32 Pound ..........................................2.06 Indian Rs ..............................173.10 Pak Rs ....................................267.38 Bangla Taka........................201.17

Indian Rs ...................................173.25

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......16.50

Pakistan Rs ............................. 271.90

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......15.85

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........$42.96 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$42.83 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) .........$45.15 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$42.45 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) .........$46.18 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) .........$44.81

* Rates are as of Nov 7 Source: Bank Muscat

Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 203.55

Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............156.50

Phil Peso ................................... 125.65 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 147.00 * Rates as of Nov 7

* Rates as of Nov 7

Source: Oman UAE Exchange

Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Bank Nizwa registers robust growth in its operating profit Times News Service

Sustainable growth was powered by its gross financing, which increased by 59 per cent to reach OMR383 million

MUSCAT: Bank Nizwa, Oman’s first Islamic bank, has registered operating profit of OMR666,000 before provision for nine months ended September 2016, compared to net loss of OMR3,265 for the same period in 2015.

The sustainable growth of the bank was powered by its gross financing, which increased by 59 per cent to reach OMR383 million, compared to OMR241 million for the similar period in 2015.

SECOND MEETING OF 2016

DELIBERATIONS: The second meeting of 2016 HSSA was held

on Monday at the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) head office and was chaired by Shaikh Dr Kahlan Bin Nabhan Al Kharoosi and attended by all its members. - Supplied picture

Experts discuss challenges faced in Islamic banking Times News Service Muscat: A key meeting discussed the progress of Islamic banking in Oman, challenges faced by the industry, need for market awareness and key role of Sharia Supervisory Boards (SSBs) in training and awareness of Islamic banking.

In addition, High Sharia Supervisory Authority met with members of SSBs of Islamic banks and Islamic banking windows

of conventional banks.

The second meeting of 2016 HSSA was held on Monday at the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) head office and was chaired by Shaikh Dr Kahlan Bin Nabhan Al Kharoosi and attended by all its members. HSSA made detailed deliberations on the issues presented to it, covering various Sharia aspects relating to Islamic banking business in Oman and gave its opinions in light of the discussions.

SHARIA SUPERVISORY BOARD

Al Yusr board meeting reviews several of its manuals and policies Times News Service MUSCAT: Al Yusr Islamic Banking, the Shari’a-compliant window of Oman Arab Bank (OAB) held its third Sharia Supervisory Board meeting for the year in its management offices in Al Athaiba.

The meeting, led by Dr Essam Al-Enezi, Chairman of Al Yusr Sharia Supervisory Board, met to discuss and update some of its manuals and policies that will strengthen the Bank’s offering by providing additional value added services.

During the meeting, the Board also highlighted the importance of independency of Islamic banking in business to avoid commingling between Islamic and conventional banking and maintain the reputation of such amenities.

In order to achieve this, the Shari’a Board updated its Sharia relevant policies and manuals as

well as its risk assessment methodology to enable the Bank to enhance the Shari’a audit function and improve existing services.

Said Abu Assoud, Head of Al Yusr Islamic Banking said, “It is important for us to assess and upgrad our policies to ensure that needs of our customers are matched with the most efficient services. We are grateful to the Sharia Supervisory Board for their continuous support in guiding Al Yusr to compete effectively with market competition and deliver the right services and benefits.”

The meeting was attended by Board Members Dr Ahmad Ayyadi and Dr Abdulaziz Al Qassar as well as Al Yusr Management, Abdul Qader Al Balushi, General Manager of Islamic Banking, Said Abu Assoud, Head of Al Yusr Islamic Banking Operations, and Dr Muhammad Iman Sastra Mihajat, Internal Sharia Reviewer.

Additionally, customer deposits portfolio increased to OMR299 million, supporting the sustainable growth in the market share of the bank and the customer’s willingness towards competitive Sharia-compliant products and services. The bank is now serving more than 66,000 retail and corporate customers.

“The financial results of the nine months ended September 2016 showed a strong financial performance where the bank was able to achieve net profit after pro-

vision of OMR187,000 which is the first time since inception which is in line with our long-term strategy.

This is an important milestone for the bank and we aim to further improve our performance and reduce accumulated losses,” Sayyid Amjad bin Mohammed Al Busaidi, chairman of Bank Nizwa, said.

“We succeeded in increasing the operating income by 51 per cent to reach OMR12.5 million compared to OMR8.3 million in the same period last year, while our operating expenses stood at the same level. “

“We also have a strong capital adequacy ratio to support longterm growth of business and operations. With all of these achievements in place, we look forward to achieve our goals for 2016 and beyond,” the chairman of Bank Nizwa further added.

Renowned for its Sharia-compliant range of progressive and efficient financial solutions, Bank Nizwa has quickly become the go-to reference of the industry in Oman. In 2016, the bank has been focusing on driving asset growth

and cross-sell in the retail business, while developing SME and Wealth Management portfolios.

It has also launched its own Strategy 2020, a five-year visionary plan that aims to further drive its operations to become the Sultanate’s leading Islamic financial institution.

The bank’s Strategy 2020 focuses on five pillars of development including financial performance, technological advancement, market share, team and culture, in addition to progressive organisation.

B2

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

MARKET Egypt to appeal IMF to approve $12 billion loan The push to finalise the loan comes as Egyptian banks on Sunday began freely trading foreign exchange on the interbank market for

BLACK MARKET: Removing the fixed exchange rate represented a major step for the central bank as it struggled to reel in a black market where the dollar was trading at almost twice its official rate. – Bloomberg News

the first time

CAIRO: Egypt will ask the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) executive board within a day or two to consider its $12 billion loan request, Finance Minister Amr El Garhy said, after the central bank freed the pound’s exchange rate to help spur investments and ease a dollar crunch.

The push to finalise the loan comes as Egyptian banks on Sunday began freely trading foreign exchange on the interbank market for the first time. The weakest rate quoted for the currency was 16.55 per dollar, compared with Commercial International Bank’s 16 to a dollar late on November 3, hours after the pound was floated.

A total of $15.8 million changed hands — a level which was “low but expected given that banks have been starved of foreign currency for such a long time,” according to Reham El Desoki, senior economist with Dubai-based Arqaam Capital. Volumes “should go up with time,” she said.

“The central bank will probably wait and see how the system

works in terms of self financing” before deciding whether to inject liquidity into the market.

Attention now turns to the IMF, which had tied the loan’s final approval to Egypt liberalising its exchange rate and cutting energy subsidies, both carried out last week. Egypt sees the accord as key to shoring up investor confidence in an economy that’s struggled since the 2011 ouster of then-president Hosni Mubarak.

Economists have said the measures could stoke inflation that for months has been at its highest level this decade.

Arab states Egypt has relied on billions of dollars of aid from Gulf nations since the removal of Mubarak.

The support has dwindled amid the drop in oil prices, prompting the government to turn to the IMF for help.

Removing the fixed exchange rate represented a major step for the central bank as it struggled to reel in a black market where the dollar was trading at almost twice its official rate. The spread between the two rates, coupled

with the shortage of hard currency, had suppressed business. The regulator also raised key interest rates 300 basis points. After the flotation, the pound slipped by as much as 45 per cent.

Inflationary risk The flotation carries an inflationary risk — one further augmented by the government’s announcement hours later that it was raising fuel prices by as much as 47 per cent effective on November 4. The step further frustrated many in the nation of more than 90 million who have been grappling with price increases and shortages in some key commodities such as sugar.

Despite concerns about the effect of price hikes on the population, Egypt’s benchmark EGX 30 index soared 6.1 per cent on Sunday to 9,349.9, its highest since March 2015, at close in Cairo.

- Bloomberg News

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

B3

MARKET R E A L E S TAT E

Rental rates for apartments, villas in Abu Dhabi drop Times News Service MUSCAT: Rental rates for both apartments and villas in Abu Dhabi have been directly impacted by the current macroeconomic challenges, witnessing declines of up to three per cent in third quarter 2016, according to the latest research report from property agency, Chestertons Mena.

Continued cost cutting and downsizing in the oil and government sectors has caused increasing economic uncertainty, job cuts and, in many cases, a drop in employment allowance, forcing residents to seek cheaper and smaller options. “Due to the continuing instability in the job market, de-

mand has weakened in the last few months with major demand arising from the middle and low income groups focusing largely on the affordable housing segments of the Emirate,” said Robin Teh, UAE country manager/director valuations & advisory UAE, Chestertons Mena.

“Further drops in rents are expected, in line with the trend in neighboring Dubai,” he added.

Al Bandar remains one of the most expensive areas to rent in the Emirate at Dh185,000 for an average two-bedroom apartment, despite an Dh8,000 reduction compared to second quarter 2016.

While at the opposite end of the scale, similar sized apartments in

showing no signs of apartment price depreciation. The average sale price of apartments is Dh1,330 per square foot; and Dh1,080 per square foot for villas.

Al Ghadeer are commanding an annual rent of Dh72,000, down Dh3,000 from the previous quarter.

In terms of the villa market, there was an average drop of three per cent across the villa communities covered in the Chestertons report. Three bedroom apartments in Al Reef, Al Raha Gardens and Khalifa City declined by 3 per cent

Swiss firm wins €10m order from Port of Salalah Cavotec will supply 16 MoorMaster MM400E15 units for container berths 3 and 4 at Salalah Times News Service MUSCAT: Marine systems innovator Cavotec has won a €10 million MoorMaster automated mooring order from existing MoorMaster customer, the Port of Salalah in Oman, for use at two container berths — another sign of the increasing acceptance of this innovative mooring technology by the global shipping sector.

“MoorMaster generates the safety and operational gains that are so critical to today’s port applications — this is especially true of container handling opera-

tions such as those at the Port of Salalah,” said Juergen Strommer, Cavotec chief operating officer for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

Maintenance contract Cavotec, a Switzerland headquartered company, is to supply 16 MoorMaster MM400E15 units for container berths 3 and 4 at Salalah. A three-year maintenance contract has also been signed — a renewal of an existing agreement — which will see Cavotec onsite service teams working closely with the port to provide support at all five MoorMaster berths.

“We’re delighted to continue our work with Cavotec — helping to improve safety and optimise operations with MoorMaster,” says Joe Schofield, Port of Salalah chief operations officer.

MoorMaster units were first trialled at Salalah in 2006, and the technology was then introduced at berths 1 and 5. The technology has successfully reduced excessive vessel motion, common to the port, caused in part by “long waves” that are especially pro-

nounced during the Khareef monsoon season.

The new units — eight each at berths 3 and 4 — are scheduled for installation before the 2017 Khareef season. Earlier this year, and prior to the 2016 Khareef season, eight MM400E15 units were installed at berth 6. These units have met all operational requirements even during the most severe periods of long wave activity.

MoorMaster is a vacuumbased automated mooring technology that eliminates the need for conventional mooring lines.

Remote controlled vacuum pads recessed in, or mounted on the quayside or pontoons, moor and release vessels in seconds.

The system dramatically improves safety and operational efficiency, and in many cases enables ports to considerable infrastructure savings.

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while similar sized units in Saadiyat Island declined by a marginal one per cent.

Five bedroom apartments had the highest drops reaching up to 5 per cent in both Al Reef and Al Raha Gardens. There was a marginal decline of 1% in the overall residential sales prices, with areas such as Al Ghadeer and Al Reef ABU DHABI

Conference on digital security Times News Service MUSCAT: Cisco will use RSA 2016 to address the evolving role of security in digital environments and discuss new ways for enterprises to secure themselves in a digital world, including key architectural approaches that enterprises can take to protect business both today and enable it for growth and innovation moving forward.

Scott Manson, Cyber Security Leader for Middle East and Turkey, Cisco will speak on ‘Cybersecurity in the Digital Economy’ on November 16.

Cisco announced its Platinum sponsorship of the RSA Conference 2016.

Attractive destination Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi still remains an attractive destination for investors, with gross rental yields reaching as high as 8.5 per cent in the apartment sector; and 7 per cent for villas.

“The capital’s position as a safe haven for investors has been consistent in recent years, offering returns of 5.5 per cent and above. This has remained true throughout 2016 with overall gross rental yields at a constant level to date within the re-

port coverage areas,” Teh said.

“Al Ghadeer and Al Reef Downtown remain the most attractive locations for investors with yields between 8 per cent and 9 per cent. Villas in Al Reef and Al Raha Gardens provide the highest yields between 6 per cent and 7 per cent,” he added.

The report also stated there were approximately 1,000 units delivered in Abu Dhabi during third quarter and a further 3,000 units are scheduled to enter the market by the end of 2016. Some of the major developments due for completion by 2020 include: The Square – Saadiyat Island, New York University Villas, Mayan Yas Island and The Island Abu Dhabi.

B4

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

MARKET MSM index ends lower

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,464.69 ............... 5,457.41 ................... 5,458.45 ...................5,464.69..................-6.24 ...................-0.11 Financial Index .....................................7,082.73 ...............7,069.99 ....................7,074.73 ................... 7,080.65.................. -5.92 .................. -0.08 Industrial Index .................................... 7,125.53 ............... 7,118.46 ....................7,122.83 ....................7,121.96....................0.87 ................... 0.01 Services Index .......................................3,015.92 ...............3,014.37 ................... 3,014.37 ................... 3,015.84...................-1.47 .................. -0.05 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................841.69 ................. 840.80 ...................... 840.80 ...................... 841.47.................. -0.67 .................. -0.08 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 6,633,039..................... 1,136,271 .....................394 ................ 17,186,101,858 .................. 5 ........................9 ....................26 .........................40

Takaful Oman remained top gainer, up 9.09 per cent while Gulf Investment Service was

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR MONDAY, NOVEMBER 7

top loser, down 1.87 per cent.

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: Subdued trading activity continues in Oman with the MSM30 Index closing at 5,458.45 points, down 0.11 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index declined 0.08 per cent to close at 840.80 points.

Al Madina Takaful was the most active in terms of volume while Bank Muscat led in turnover.

Takaful Oman remained top gainer, up 9.09 per cent while Gulf Investment Service was top loser, down 1.87 per cent.

A total number of 394 trades were executed on Monday, generating turnover of OMR1.14 million with 6.63 million shares changing hands. At the session close, Omani Investors stayed net buyers for OMR105,000 while GCC & Arab Investors were net sellers for OMR89,000 followed by Foreign Investors for OMR16,000 worth of shares.

Financial Index retreated 0.08 per cent to close at 7,074.73 points. Takaful Oman, Al Madina Takaful and Al Anwar Holding gained 9.09 per cent, 2.74 per cent and 0.61 per cent respectively.

Gulf Investment Services, Al Sharqia Investment, Al Izz Bank, HSBC Bank and Oman & Emirates Holding decreased 1.87 per cent, 1.74 per cent, 1.56 per cent, 0.88 per cent and 0.81 per cent respectively. Industrial Index was stable at 7,122.83 points, up 0.01 per cent. Galfar Engineering gained 1.06 per cent while Oman Fisheries lost 1.67 per cent respectively. Services Index ended at 3,014.37 points, down 0.05 per cent. Ooredoo and Port Services declined 0.62 per cent and 0.40 per cent respectively.

Emerging markets rebound Emerging-market stocks gained the most in almost three weeks and Mexico’s peso led an an advance in currencies on optimism a victory for Hillary Clinton in the US presidential election will support risk appetite.

The peso was set for its biggest jump since September after the Federal Bureau of Investigation reaffirmed that Clinton’s use of private e-mail servers wasn’t a crime. Egypt’s pound weakened 3.6 per cent after the central bank freed its currency while stocks in Cairo extended a rally for an eighth day. Hungarian shares reached a record high after the country was returned to investment grade by Moody’s Investors Service. The premium investors demand to own emerging-market sovereign bonds over Treasuries narrowed the most in two weeks.

The MSCI Emerging-market Index fell 2.8 per cent last week after the FBI announced its new investigation, while actively managed emerging-market equity funds lost a net $327 million in the week ending on November 2, their first outflow in 19 weeks, EPFR Global data show.

The MSCI Emerging markets Index rose 1 per cent, its first increase in five days, as of 11:23am in London. Ten of 11 industry groups advanced, led by energy companies and technology shares. The developing-markets measure has rallied 12 per cent this year and is valued at 12 times projected 12-month earnings, data compiled by Bloomberg show. The MSCI World Index is little changed in 2016 and trades at a multiple of 15.4.

Egypt’s EGX 30 Index gained 5 percent, Stocks in the Arab nation have rallied amid bets a decision to float its currency will help cement a $12 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund. Turkish shares headed for the biggest gain since Sept. 22 on a closing basis. The BUX Index in Budapest rose 0.8 per cent after Moody’s became the third main ratings company to give the former communist nation investment-grade status.

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

OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 1,615,851 ........121,561..................... 94 ........... 0.073 ........... 0.077 ...........0.073........... 0.075 .............0.073 ........... 0.002............. 2.740 ................0.075..............0.075...................0.076...................13,125,000 .........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 398,912 ............65,747......................16 ............0.164 ........... 0.165 ...........0.164............0.165 .............0.164.............0.001 ............. 0.610 ................0.165 ..............0.164...................0.165 ...................28,875,405 .........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 125,900 ........... 36,259........................7 ........... 0.288 ...........0.288 ...........0.288........... 0.288 .............0.288 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.288..............0.282...................0.288 ..................28,800,000 ........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ...............................................................3,000 ...............1,808........................4 ............0.616 ........... 0.616 ...........0.600............0.616 ............. 0.616............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.600..............0.594...................0.612...................33,880,000.........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT .......................................................... 1,000 ............... 1,525........................1 ............1.525 ........... 1.525 ...........1.525 ............1.525 ............. 1.525............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.525 ..............1.490...................1.525 ................. 305,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ..................................... 1,500 .................. 338........................1 ........... 0.225 ...........0.225 ...........0.225........... 0.227 .............0.227 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.225............. 0.220...................0.225 .................334,775,349........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 101,543.............18,381........................4 ............0.182 ........... 0.182 ...........0.181 ............0.181 ............. 0.181 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.181 ..............0.180................... 0.181 ...................36,200,000 ........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT .......................................................... 109,400 ........... 48,792........................6 ........... 0.446 ...........0.446 ...........0.446........... 0.446 .............0.446 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.446............. 0.000...................0.446 .................147,569,229 ........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 231,485............ 12,520......................19 ........... 0.054 ........... 0.055 ...........0.054........... 0.054 .............0.054 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.054..............0.053...................0.054 ...................11,186,175..........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ..........................24,001 .............35,281........................8 ............1.470 ........... 1.470 ...........1.470 ............1.470 ............. 1.470............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.470 ..............1.460...................1.470................1,102,500,000 ......0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ...................................... 25,000 ...............5,500........................7 ........... 0.220...........0.220 ...........0.220 .......... 0.220 .............0.220 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.220 ............ 0.220...................0.230 .................. 65,731,089 .........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 325,000 ........... 45,850..................... 10 ............0.141 ........... 0.142 ...........0.141 ............0.141 ............. 0.141............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.141 .............. 0.141...................0.142................. 226,234,407 .......0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .......................................................5,000 ...............2,250........................1 ........... 0.450 ...........0.450 ...........0.450........... 0.450 .............0.450 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.450..............0.450...................0.452...................27,225,000.........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ................................................. 50,000 ............ 24,397........................5 ........... 0.484 ...........0.488 ...........0.484........... 0.488 .............0.488 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.488..............0.450...................0.488...................25,620,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 303,971 ........... 42,556......................18 ............0.140 ........... 0.140 ...........0.140........... 0.140 .............0.140 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.140..............0.140...................0.142................. 204,764,204 .......0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION .........................68,532 ............ 16,944........................9 ........... 0.250 ...........0.250 ...........0.246........... 0.247 .............0.248 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.403 ...............0.246..............0.246...................0.249 ..................23,474,880.........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 369,139...........150,775..................... 30 ............0.410 ........... 0.410 ...........0.406........... 0.408 .............0.410............-0.002 ........... -0.488 ...............0.410 ..............0.408...................0.410................ 1,018,470,105 ......0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 196,309 ..........125,168......................18 ........... 0.640 ...........0.644 ...........0.632........... 0.636 .............0.640 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.625 ...............0.632..............0.632...................0.640 .................414,000,530 .......0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES .............................5,800 ..................609........................2 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ........... 0.105 .............0.107............-0.002 ........... -1.869................0.105 ..............0.105...................0.107.................... 6,178,538 ..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 3,961,343 ......756,262...................260 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......19........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ..............................97,402 .............19,901......................11 ............0.199 ...........0.205 ...........0.199 ........... 0.204 ............. 0.187.............0.017 ............. 9.091 ................0.205..............0.205...................0.000 ..................20,400,000 ........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. ....................86,124 ............... 8,145........................8 ........... 0.095 ........... 0.095 ...........0.093........... 0.095 .............0.094 ............0.001 ............. 1.064 ................0.094..............0.093...................0.094 .................. 27,548,161 .........0.100 OM0000001020 ...........OMAN CHROMITE............................................................ 200 ..................720........................1 ........... 3.600 ...........3.600 ...........3.600........... 3.640 .............3.640 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................3.600............. 0.000...................3.590...................10,920,000.........1.000 OM0000001152 ............OMAN NATIONAL ENGINE. INVT. .................... 213,614 ............ 30,974......................15 ............0.145 ........... 0.145 ...........0.145 ............0.145 ............. 0.145............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.145 .............. 0.145...................0.157 ...................14,500,000.........0.100 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS ................. 7,500 ............... 1,410........................1 ............0.188 ........... 0.188 ...........0.188 ........... 0.188 ............. 0.188............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.188 .............. 0.175...................0.190.................... 6,311,433 ..........0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ...................................................9,000 ...............5,904........................2 ............0.656 ........... 0.656 ...........0.656........... 0.656 .............0.656 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.656..............0.656...................0.720..................103,320,000 .......0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ..............12,000 ...............3,060........................4 ........... 0.255 ........... 0.255 ...........0.255........... 0.255 .............0.255 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.255..............0.250...................0.255....................5,355,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ........................ 11,000 ..................924........................1 ........... 0.084 ...........0.084 ...........0.084........... 0.084 .............0.084 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.084..............0.080...................0.087....................2,520,000..........0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ............................................................ 200,040........... 43,409........................5 ............0.217 ........... 0.217 ...........0.217 ............0.217 ............. 0.217............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.217 .............. 0.211...................0.217..................412,126,704 ........0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. ....... 57,939 .............83,722........................6 ............1.445 ........... 1.445 ...........1.445 ............1.445 ............. 1.445............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.445 ..............1.440...................1.445...................99,705,000 .........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ....................5,000 ..................890........................2 ............0.178 ........... 0.178 ...........0.178 ............0.178 ............. 0.178............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.178 .............. 0.175...................0.178 ...................35,600,000.........0.100 OM0000003265 ...........NATIONAL DETERGENT ...........................................3,000 ...............2,124........................1 ............0.708 ........... 0.708 ...........0.708........... 0.704 .............0.704 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.708..............0.708...................0.000 ..................11,976,800 .........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 958,678 ............74,777..................... 29 ........... 0.078 ........... 0.078 ...........0.078........... 0.078 .............0.078 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.078..............0.077...................0.078..................117,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH..................................................5,000 ................1,175........................1 ........... 0.235 ........... 0.235 ...........0.235........... 0.235 .............0.235 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.235..............0.235...................0.237................. 224,324,408 .......0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING..............51,131 ...............6,237........................5 ............0.122 ........... 0.122 ...........0.121 ........... 0.122 ............. 0.123............-0.001 ........... -0.813................0.121 .............. 0.121...................0.123...................14,868,750 .........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 696,000 ........... 78,002......................17 ............0.112 ........... 0.113............0.112 ............0.112 ............. 0.113 ............-0.001 ........... -0.885 ...............0.112 .............. 0.112................... 0.113 ................. 224,035,032 .......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 174,855.............11,020..................... 10 ........... 0.064 ...........0.064 ...........0.063........... 0.063 .............0.064 ...........-0.001 ............-1.563................0.063..............0.063...................0.064 ..................63,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ...................................................... 25,000 ............... 1,475........................1 ........... 0.059 ...........0.059 ...........0.059........... 0.059 .............0.060 ...........-0.001 ............-1.667................0.059..............0.059...................0.060 ................... 7,375,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING .............26,268 ...............2,973........................9 ............0.115 ........... 0.115............0.113 ............0.113 ............. 0.115 ............-0.002 ............-1.739................0.114 ...............0.113................... 0.114 ...................10,170,000 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 2,639,751....... 376,841...................129 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......19........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

— United Securities/Bloomberg News

PERFORMANCE

SMARTPHONE MODEL

HSBC's profit in third quarter exceeds Samsung seeks to estimates as capital buffer strengthens make a comeback LONDON: HSBC Holdings reported third-quarter profit that beat analysts’ estimates as Chief Executive Officer Stuart Gulliver pared costs and bolstered the lender’s capital cushion. The shares jumped by the most in two months in Hong Kong.

Adjusted pretax profit, which excludes one-time items, rose 7 per cent from a year earlier to $5.59 billion, Europe’s largest bank said in a statement on Monday. That compared with the $5.29 billion average estimate of five analysts compiled by Bloomberg News.

A UK regulator’s altered treatment of HSBC’s stake in China’s Bank of Communications Co. cut the British bank’s risk-weighted assets by $120.9 billion. That freed up $5.6 billion, which increased the lender’s capital ratio and will help to support its dividend and any future share buybacks, as well as providing a buffer for “the continuing uncertain regulatory environment,” Gulliver said.

Safety zone This should be enough to “allow the bank to maintain the dividend next year,” Sanford C. Bernstein & Co. analysts led by Chirantan Barua said in a note. “For yield investors who have been the source of support for valuation of this stock, this keeps the stock in the safety zone into the next six to nine months.”

The company’s shares rose 2.3 per cent in Hong Kong as of 1:28pm after earlier gaining as much as 3 per cent.

The bank’s common equity Tier 1 ratio rose to 13.9 per cent from 12.1 per cent three months earlier.

That beat estimates of Morgan Stanley analysts, who expected an improvement to 12.9 per cent.

with new Galaxy S8

ROBUST GROWTH: Adjusted pretax profit, which excludes one-time items, rose 7 per cent from a year

earlier to $5.59 billion, Europe’s largest bank said in a statement on Monday.

Gulliver’s task Almost six years into his tenure, Gulliver is striving to maintain revenue while paring global operations to trim $5 billion of annual expenses. His efforts to redeploy more assets into Asia have been complicated by China’s slowing economy, while the bank is also navigating tougher capital rules, low interest rates and misconduct scandals.

The stock had climbed 11 per cent in London this year, the second-most among major European lenders behind Standard Chartered at Friday’s close. Both get the vast majority of their profit in Asia and report in dollars, limiting the impact of Britain’s vote to leave the European Union. Even so, HSBC still trades below its book value.

Adjusted revenue gained 2.4 per cent to $12.8 billion. Adjusted operating costs fell 3.5 per cent to

$7.25 billion, compared with the $7.33 billion average estimate of the five analysts surveyed.

Since Gulliver started restructuring the bank in 2011, he’s slashed headcount by about 44,000 and pledged 25,000 cuts last year, exiting at least 80 businesses. Globally, it’s retreated to 71 countries and territories from 88. Nevertheless, as with most European lenders, HSBC has been struggling to boost profitability.

In August, management removed a target to surpass a 10 per cent return on equity by the end of 2017, citing economic and political uncertainties, and stepped back from its “progressive” dividend policy.

Adjusted pretax profit in Asia climbed 10 per cent to $3.8 billion in the quarter from a year earlier, while Europe reported a 5.4 per cent gain to $863 million.

— Bloomberg file picture

At the retail banking and wealth management division, adjusted profit rose to $1.8 billion from $1.5 billion a year earlier. In global banking and markets, which houses the investment bank, adjusted profit jumped to $2.5 billion from $1.93 billion in the period. The gain was primarily driven by the bank’s fixed-income businesses, which gained market share in Europe, HSBC said.

Finance Director Iain Mackay has said revenue is suffering because of record-low interest rates around the world, a particular problem for HSBC because it houses more than $400 billion of surplus deposits. Mackay said in August the lender would lose about $100 million of net interest income a year as a result of the Bank of England cutting its main interest rate by 25 basis points after Brexit. — Bloomberg News

SEOUL: Samsung Electronics plans to equip its next Galaxy S smartphones with a Siri-like digital assistant, seeking to make a comeback after the global debacle that precipitated the death of its flawed Note 7 lineup.

Samsung, which last month acquired US-based artificialintelligence (AI) software company Viv Labs, said the Galaxy S8 slated for next year will come with AI-enabled features “significantly differentiated” from those in the market, such as Apple’s Siri or Google. Those services now offer up potentially useful information from the weather to flight times based on user activity.

The flagship Galaxy S line will prove crucial to salvaging Samsung’s reputation in the wake of the fiasco surrounding a Note 7 device prone to bursting into flame. The recall and eventual cessation of the line is estimated to cost upwards of $6 billion and pushed profits at its mobile division to a record low in the September quarter. The company is now investigating the root cause behind the fires, but wouldn’t comment on progress so far.

“It will be significantly differentiated from the current services we see in the market now,” executive vice president Rhee In-jong said of the S8’s features.

He said last month the company plans to embed Viv’s technology in other electronics and home appliances beyond phones.

Global technology players are vying to build devices attuned to users’ lifestyles and daily behavior. Amazon is trying to sign up more developers for its Alexa voice technology, while Apple has

– Bloomberg file picture

recently touted more Siri capabilities and opened the technology to other developers. Google, considered the leader in artificial intelligence, is making its own push. Samsung is now getting into the game. It releases new versions of its top-tier Galaxy S series sometime in the first quarter of every year, typically during the Mobile World Congress in Spain. With the Note 7 line now defunct, the S8 will become its de facto showcase smartphone.

The company is keen to put the Note 7 behind it and resuscitate its business. Samsung reported a sharp decline in profit as the Note 7 recall took its toll. Net income fell 17 per cent to 4.41 trillion won ($3.9 billion) in the third quarter, bringing its mobile profit to a historic low of 100 billion won.

Samsung suffered a separate setback with a different product last week. The company is recalling about 2.8 million washing machines in the US amid reports that the top of the machine can become detached during use.

— Bloomberg News

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Nissan X-Trail reinvents compact SUV Nissan’s ongoing seasonal offers on the X-Trail are a huge hit among auto enthusiasts

MUSCAT: The Nissan X-Trail from Suhail Bahwan Automobiles is a compact SUV that comes with a 2.5-litre 4 cylinder engine, mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is all set to offer class-leading comfort, thoughtful technology and a rewarding driving experience with a completely refurbished interior and exterior styling.

Nissan’s ongoing seasonal offers on the X-Trail are a huge hit among auto enthusiasts. Its exclusive vehicle promotions are enticing and one-of-a-kind promising unlimited benefits to customers, says a press release.

Social media Customers can also get unlimited access to Nissan’s prestigious vehicle line up at the comfort of their homes or offices. Simply visit Nissan Oman’s facebook page i.e http://www.facebook.com/Sbanissanoman or send an SMS to get updated information on any of the Technology New X-Trail will be one of the most advanced cars on the road. Fully connected, the X-Trail is equipped with the latest generation Nissan Connect in-car navigation, information and entertainment system.

Drivers will also benefit from a comprehensive suite of assistance features that make up the X-Trail’s Nissan Safety Shield system.

New Nissan Connect is one of the foremost examples of Nissan’s engineering innovation. In its latest form, Nissan Connect has evolved to offer smartphone connectivity, to keep owners connect-

ed to the outside world wherever their journey takes them. With access to a projected range of apps covering music, social networking and 7-inch colour touch screen, the new Nissan Connect is the perfect fit for new X-Trail.

The system includes bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone integration as well as Aux-in and USB slots.

In addition to mobile phone integration, the system also includes bluetooth audio streaming. The driver also benefits from one of the most advanced meter displays developed. Featuring a 5 inch TFT colour display incorporating several graphic displays accessible on rotation, offering advice and warnings covering such things as; average and actual speeds, navigation turn-by-turn instructions, audio content, eco driving advice and torque distribution settings in 4WD mode.

Design The design brief behind the new X-Trail was to blend the sleek and stylish lines of a modern crossover with the robust appeal of a typical SUV. In place of the rugged, squared off lines of the previous generation, the X-Trail has a premium and dynamic appearance.

Sculptured muscular lines create a distinctive silhouette framed by elegant curves and high wheel arches. Its features include a number of Nissan signature cues such as the ‘boomerang’ rear

lights, structured headlights with LED daytime running lamps and the characteristic D-pillar shape.

LED headlights, for both high and low beams, are standard on high grade models while 18-inch alloy wheels also give new X-Trail an imposing look.

Inside, premium features include chrome, geometric metallic and piano black finishes making the new interior look modern and refined. The use of high quality and soft touch materials, elements like double stitching on the door panel, seats and center armrest combined with a very classy design puts the new Nissan X-Trail in a league of its own.

The spacious interior has theatre-style seating making every row higher than the row in front to increase the visibility of all passengers. The option of two extra seats to make room for seven inside is unique for the category.

Practical touches include rear

side doors that open to almost 80 degrees, far wider than normal, to allow both easy access and ease the loading and unloading of a child’s safety seat. Middle row seat comfort has been improved thanks to extra knee room generated by the longer wheelbase and the new front seats having more heavily sculpted seat backs.

The middle row seats recline and slide while, where fitted, the third row folds forward to increase luggage space.

In addition, access to the luggage area has also been made as easy as possible with remote operation of the power tailgate. The result is a dynamic mix of progressive exterior styling with a spacious, functional and high quality interior.

Chassis In keeping with the class leading standards set by the previous generation model, the new X-Trail adopts Nissan’s advanced elec-

tronic four-wheel drive system, all mode 4x4i. Controlled via a rotary switch on the center console, it offers a choice between two-wheel drive, Auto mode or Lock offering permanent four-wheel drive.

In the ‘default’ Auto mode, the system constantly monitors throttle opening, engine speed and torque to anticipate wheel spin and to distribute torque between front and rear axles as needed, at speeds of up to 80 km/h.

Above that speed, the system reacts to wheelspin, again shifting drive rearwards to restore traction as required. For tricky conditions and at low speeds, ‘Lock’ gives new X-Trail permanent four-wheel drive, while drivers also have the option of a two-wheel drive only version. Ready to exceed the expectations of compact SUV drivers, four electronic systems have been designed to make life with XTrail more comfortable and even safer: two are world firsts and a third is currently found on the premium Infiniti Q70.

The two world firsts are Active Ride Control and Active Engine Brake. Active Ride Control monitors the road surface to detect undulations. Active Engine Brake, meanwhile, harnesses the power and controllability of the Xtronic transmission to add a degree of engine braking while cornering or when decelerating to a standstill.

The benefits are greater braking control and enhanced feel with less pedal effort.

The third system, pioneered in the premium segment, is Active Trace Control. By using onboard sensors to monitor speed, steering angle, throttle opening and braking effort; Active Trace Control brakes wheels individually, as required, to reduce understeer and help the driver steer a safer path through bends: it is particularly effective on slippery, wet roads.

Finally new X-Trail benefits from uphill start support and advance hill descent control.

Drivetrain During the X-Trail’s development; refinement, environment and economy targets were to be best

in-class. This has been achieved on all counts by reducing weight wherever possible, even though new X-Trail has a larger surface area than the previous model. The tailgate, for example, is largely plastic, saving seven kilograms.

A great deal of attention has been paid to the car’s aerodynamics with carefully shaped door mirrors and even a spoiler that covers the exhaust box and rear panel.

Engineering innovation will also allow the new X-Trail to lead its class in terms of engine efficiency thanks to downsizing. By reducing power sapping friction in its drivetrains, new X-Trail provides excellent performance from the latest generation of downsized engines, providing the pace of a bigger powerplant with the economy and emissions of a smaller one.

Striking features: Standard features in the new Nissan X-Trail include power windows, power steering, electric mirrors, fabric seats, keyless entry with central locking, manual AC, AM/FM radio with CD/USB/AUX and alloy wheels. Optional features include push-engine start, better entertainment system with more speakers, bigger alloy wheels, parking sensors and automatic AC. Standard safety features include driver and passenger airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS brakes, electronic brake distribution and Brake Assist. The vehicle comes in two separate variants 5-seater and 7-seater respectively.

The 5-seater comes with 4x2 and 4x4 with only S Grades and the 7-seater comes only in 4x4 that has three grades comprising S, SV and SL. SBA is largely committed to supporting Nissan’s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman. With a national network of more than 20 showrooms, 24 service centres and 35 spare parts outlets, SBA has further built upon its legacy of trust, excellent customer service and providing value for money to each of its customers.

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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

ROUND-UP Nissan now available with exclusive offers

A’Saffa introduces ‘Ekhtiari’ range

Nissan Oman’s ‘Get the Nissan Excitement’ promotion offers the best of the deals for its customers. These offers vary across all models

MUSCAT: Oman’s most trusted automobile brand, Nissan is now available with attractive and exclusive offers under ‘Get the Nissan Excitement’ scheme.

Nissan, which was adjudged the most trusted brand in the automotive category in an online survey conducted by a local daily, is now available along with a variety of benefits. It was announced the winner of Oman’s Most Trusted Brands award in the automotive category at a ceremony held recently, says a press release.

The awards were presented by the chief guest, Yahya bin Said Al Jabri, chairman of Special Economic Zone Authority Duqm (SEZAD) and chairman of Capital Market Authority.

During the online voting period of the survey, a total of 189,023 votes were received. The public voted for their preferred brand in 10 categories including airlines, automotive, banks, hypermarkets,

L O W FAT P R O D U C T S

investment and finance companies, jewellery, money exchanges, private hospitals, telecom and Omani brands.

A senior official of Nissan Oman from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA) said, “We are honoured to receive the most trusted brand award in the automotive category. This highlights the trust and confidence that consumers have on our brand. To celebrate and pay tribute to our customers who have shown high regard for our brand we have come with this special offer. This recognition pushes us to work even more persistently for the benefit of our customers.”

Extending buyers, a surplus of appealing value propositions, which include attractive cash back offer, free registration, free periodic maintenance service of 10,000km, extended mileage warranty, Nissan Oman’s ‘Get the Nissan Excitement’ promotion offers the best of the deals for its customers. These offers vary across all models. The offer will be valid till December 15 on all models purchased for personal use only.

Talking about the promotion, the senior official said, “Excitement is at the heart of everything we do at Nissan, which is why we came up with this offer. The ‘Get the Nissan Excitement’ campaign

wants to reward customers who are enthusiasts of the Nissan brand and aspire to own a brand.

This offer makes the process of owning a Nissan vehicle easy and attractive. Brand Nissan is trusted by auto enthusiasts and we feel our customers deserve the best for their loyalty.”

The ‘Get the Nissan Excitement’ has been conceptualised to make the dream of owning a Nissan vehicle more economical.

will get free periodic vehicle service package for 1 year/10,000km (whichever is earlier) during the scheme period. This offer includes only the new service intervals of 10,000km and excludes any wear and tear parts.

Assured cash back Under the special offer, customers can avail assured cash back ranging from OMR750 to OMR2,000 varying model-wise except Civilian.

Loyalty scheme Loyal customers stand to enjoy additional benefits on purchase of a second Nissan vehicle in the family. Any person, who has two or more Nissan cars in his name or in the name of immediate family (husband, wife, unmarried children) and the new vehicles have been purchased from Suhail Bahwan Automobiles Oman, will be eligible for an exclusive Nissan Privilege Programme.

The members of exclusive Nissan Privilege Programme will be issued with a Nissan Privilege Card. These customers will be entitled to special benefits at Nissan showrooms, Nissan workshops, parts counters/ outlets, trade in car, in house finance and rent a car.

Suhail Bahwan Automobiles is largely committed to supporting Nissan’s growth in the Sultanate.

Special EMI rate Customers can avail a special EMI rates (terms and conditions apply) on Nissan vehicles.

Extended warranty All customers purchasing Nissan vehicles during this scheme period will be eligible for free 6 year unlimited mileage warranty except 370Z, Patrol Pick Up, Navara Pick Up, Urvan and Civilian. Applicable only on private registration, not on commercial registration.

Service package Customers purchasing any Nissan model/ variant under the scheme

NEW COLOUR COLLECTION

Free registration Nissan customers get free registration on all new vehicle purchased except Urvan and Civilian, for first year only.

MUSCAT: The ‘Ekhtiari’ range of low-fat, low-calorie frozen snack delights, from the house of A’Saffa Foods have been launched, and are now available at freezer aisles in hypermarkets, supermarkets and grocery stores throughout the Sultanate.

‘Ekhtiari’s nutritious frozen meals and snacks give parents a guilt-free, carefree, convenient way to feed children foods that they love and are good for them, says a press release.

Using pure and natural ingredients just like all of A’Saffa Foods’ other products; the Ekhtiari range provides families with lean versions of kid-friendly favourites such as chicken burger, breaded chicken burger, chicken franks, chicken nuggets, chicken fillet, and chicken finger.

A nearly organic and lowcalorie frozen product selection – ‘Ekhtiari’ means ‘my choice’, and provides consumers ‘wholesome taste and happiness – Mia Bil Mia’.

With the all-new ‘Ekhtiari’ range, shoppers who put an increased focus on the health and happiness of their families will be able to enjoy the quality of A’Saffa Foods conveniently at their local grocery store.

“Consumers should have the choice to indulge and eat without guilt, and be carefree; and that’s

why we’ve created the ‘Ekhtiari’ range of products,” Sidhartha Lenka, head of Marketing and Sales at A’Saffa Foods mentioned.

“Our point of difference is that meals created using ‘Ekhtiari’ will be both delicious and good for one’s body. Consumers who chose to have a lean product and are looking for convenient ways to eat better will love every bite!.”

He elaborated, “Through the ‘Ekhtiari’ range we want parents all over the country to be able make the simple choice of feeding their kids with a lean product.

Like our usual product lines in the A’Saffa Foods frozen category, the ‘Ekhtiari’ range too is Individually Quick frozen (IQF) to preserve flavour, nutrients, and natural texture.

Like A’Saffa Foods already existing range of quality frozen products, ‘Ekhtiari’ enables A’Saffa Foods to offer more accessibility to parents and families in Oman as well as the GCC who are looking for even more leaner and convenient meal-time solutions, without compromising on taste.

The launch of the ‘Ekhtiari’ range is a step towards providing individuals and families the choice of low-fat, low-calorie, protein-rich, wholesome, carefree and tasty snacks and meals; that keep them carefree, healthy, energetic and most importantly happy.

M O S T T RU S T E D B R A N D AWA R D 2 0 1 6

Jotun’s global 2017 wall trends Havas Worldwide Muscat’s 3 to inspire home décor designs affiliating brands recognised MUSCAT: Drawing inspiration from different countries, cultures, natural environment and styles across the world are the latest wall trends from Jotun, one of the world’s major paint manufacturers.

The new palette emphasises on accenting homes while providing a well-travelled and worldly feel in three different and inspirational styles: Nordic Living, Continental Living and Urban Living, says a press release.

This carefully designed palette reflects various different elements of an individual’s lifestyle – travel, food, music and much more. Mirroring these elements, the themes derived capture tendencies in time and highlight three distinct regions and styles for home décor.

The aesthetics of Northern Europe with cross-cultural references, travel memories that live forever and delightful urban surroundings define the themes and bring the global feel back to 2017 homes.

The shades for the coming year have been developed by a team of international and regional experts. While keeping up to date with forward-thinking and progressive design and décor, the palette is a vast resource of vibrant aspirations for home owners, both regionally and globally.

Jotun’s new colour collection aspires to create homes instilled with vibrant energies and soothing restfulness. An invigorating new display of these hues inspired by the ‘journey of travel’ is significantly characterised by spicy nuances of deep reds, browns and mustard. The elegant

pinks continue to take centrestage, complemented with warm diverse greens and neutrals. The perennial favourites are retained in the Nordic realm with lighter greys and sky tint blues and finished with gold tints.

“We are all inspired by different things. We travel, physically or online, and discover new places. The food we eat, the books we read and the music we listen to come from all corners of the world. With our new colour card we wish to reflect this curiosity in people’s homes, and we have come up with three themes that capture these tendencies in time,” said Lisbeth Larsen, Jotun’s Global Colour and Creative director.

“We are all individuals and have personal tastes. To us at Jotun, it is all about feeling safe and comfortable in your own home, and being brave enough to create a personal style inspired by the global landscape. The kitchen can have a Nordic touch, the bedroom be decorated in an Oriental style, while the living room can have a hint of 80’s Italian Memphis design.

“Through colours you can create different spheres, which adds excitement to the surroundings.

If you don’t like it, a simple fresh stroke of a brush using Jotun’s Fenomastic interior paint will help resolve,” added Larsen.

Stemming from Jotun’s most beautiful paint ever; Fenomastic My Home in combination with the unique Lady Design special effect wall paint, the 2017 Wall Trends breathe life and character into spaces. From the Fenomastic My Home range, Fenomastic My Home Rich Mattis superior quality paint with beautiful matt finish that makes colours appear rich while offering the best colour accuracy; the paint ensures homeowners achieve the exact look they desire. Fenomastic My Home Smooth Silk is another creation within Fenomastic My Home which offers super quality emulsion with a smooth silky finish, improved colour experience and accuracy in colours.

All colours and textures featured as part of Jotun’s 2016 Wall Trends are available across all its stores across the region.

MUSCAT: Havas Worldwide Muscat announced that three of the brands they are partnered with, have won the Oman’s Most Trusted Brand Award 2016.

Oman’s Most Trusted Brand Award 2016, conducted by a local daily and voted by the public, had 10 final categories enlisted, out of which three winners are the clients of Havas Worldwide Muscat.

Namely, Nissan (Oman’s Most Trusted Brand in the automobile category), Oman Air (Oman’s Most Trusted Brand in the airline category) and Oman Oasis (Oman’s Most Trusted Brand in the Omani brand category), says a press release.

The brands were judged and winners were chosen by customers based on the quality, value, and reliability they deliver, winning their trust and loyalty over time.

As the custodian of the winning brands, among many other brands the agency handles, Havas World-

wide Muscat is known for its leadership in creating brand connect through its strategic planning, creativity and effective communication. With the combined experience and expertise of its network, Havas Worldwide Muscat delivers its clients, distinct and result-

driven creative solutions fit for the offline and online world.

Commenting on the recognition, Nicolas Labban, general manager, Havas Worldwide Muscat said, “It is such a pleasure to see our affiliating brands get recognised, especially on a platform where the brands’ value of emotional connect with customers is acknowledged.”

“By developing strategic communication routes that resonate with the market, we’ve helped build these brands and businesses.

It’s an impressive achievement, one we’re particularly proud of, and would like to thank all our clients for their continued trust in our capabilities to help drive their businesses forward,” he added.

As the agency continues its integrated approach to offer its valuable partners more opportunities to create meaningful brand experiences, it also looks forward to seeing more of its clients in the next year’s winning list.

A D VA N C E D T E C H N O L O G Y

Bank Sohar enhances data centre with Cisco ACI MUSCAT: Bank Sohar has become the first bank in Oman to use Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) technology for networking, regarded as the most innovative resource in the data centre arena. The new enterprise data centre better enables the bank to simplify and accelerate the application lifecycle management in addition to optimising client services.

Cisco ACI and Firewall technology have been deployed at Bank

Sohar by implementation partner IITC, a long term Gold certified partner of Cisco. This technology has enabled the bank to manage its network and application services from a central management interface, the Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC), says a press release.

Sasi Kumar, acting CEO of Bank Sohar noted, “At Bank Sohar, we believe that our customers deserve nothing less than excellence.

That is why we constantly strive to maintain and further enhance our position as one of Oman’s leading banks, and this means investing in the latest cutting edge technology in order to boost our operations and overall customer experience.”

Mujahid Said Al Zadjali, DGM of IT and Alternate Channels at Bank Sohar, “From an integration perspective, our data centre has benefited from this technology as it has simplified our operational system.”

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46 artists paint for a cause at Bhavalaya ‘Paint for Peace’ event While the overriding theme was that of peace, the beauty of this ‘Paint for Peace’ event was that it was also a colourful tribute to the icon of peace, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, on the occasion of the 46th National Day of Oman

MUSCAT: The nation recently witnessed an eruption of colours for a noble cause at the Bhavalaya ‘Paint for Peace’ symposium.

The three-day live painting symposium was followed by exhibition and felicitation of winners at the Omani Society for Fine Arts (OSFA) which served as an ideal setting for a colourful cause of peace where 46 committed artists went on a painting spree to paint over a world of violence and darkness with their own visionary images that sparked a hope for a world with peace, love and happiness, says a press release.

The unique confluence of resident artists (23 Omanis and 23 Indians), who united for the cause of peace, produced 46 works of art as part of the ‘Paint for Peace’ initiative that provoked the viewers

to embark on a world without violence and to commit themselves to a safe future for their progeny.

While the overriding theme was that of peace, the beauty of this ‘Paint for Peace’ event was that it was also a colourful tribute to the icon of peace, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, on the occasion of the 46th National Day of Oman.

“The artists mesmerised us with wonderful images that have forever embedded in our hearts,” Dr J. Retnakumar, the brain behind this artistic venture informed the media post event.

Retnakumar, founder and chairman of Bhavalaya, a global platform for the promotion of art and culture, which has initiated this art-for-peace venture and this iconic tribute to His Majesty, the Sultan noted that the paintings were real eye openers and all of

the painters shared a common passion for peace.

“This, itself, bodes well for the future and it brings hope to the common man,” noted Dr Retnakumar, a trailblazer in the realm of organising such unique and thoughtprovoking events that united and bridged the gap between art, music, dance and the common man.

“Art is one of the best mediums that can unite minds and liberate lives – its language is universal.

Events like these would serve as role models for all countries and it would help remind them of the importance of peace and promote it. Since I live in such a peaceful country like Oman, which is ruled by the icon of peace, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, I realised that the best way to salute the great leader is to organise such an event. The expressions on the 46 canvases

will surely trigger more concern in society on the great need of peace and its significance in the progress of the nation,” Dr Retnakumar said, exhorting everyone to make their contribution to make their community a better place.

Glittering ceremony A glittering closing ceremony added to the flavour of the ‘Paint For Peace’ event. Sayyid Saud bin Hilal bin Busaidi, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat was the chief guest while Indra Mani Pandey, Indian ambassador, was the guest of honour. They, along with Mariyam Al Zadjali, director of the OSFA, and Dr Retnakumar presented the overall best painting award to the winner, Maazin Al Mamri.

Al Busaidi also presented awards to all six winners who were

chosen by the expert judging panellists. The first prize winner from the Omani category was Juma Al Harthy, while the second and the third prizes went to Ahmed Majeed and Hafsa, respectively.

In the Indian category, the first, second and third prize winners were Kanak Mitra, Soni Bodhia and Komal Talati, respectively.

The judges for this social-cumart competition were two top Omani painters, Anwar Sonya and Abdullah Al Riyami and two other well-known Indian painters, Amrut Patel and Prof. Rajeev Lochan.

All the judges were conferred with a lifetime achievement awards from Bhavalaya.

Artists K. T. Arun and Sudipta Choudry were given appreciation awards.

“Our vision is to create a universal platform for artists from all

over the globe sans cultural or regional barriers,” Dr Retnakumar said, adding that Bhavalaya will offer a diverse platform to all the aspirants who believes in serving the global society through various medium of ancient and modern art and culture.

While admiring the participants’ skill and talent, Dr Retnakumar noted that the two-day live painting event saw high-levels of camaraderie amongst the fellow painters, who poured out their heartfelt feelings of peace on bare canvases, which are now for sales to the general public. A 75 per cent share of the sale proceedings of the paintings will be donated to charity organisation Dar Al Atta’a and the remaining 25 per cent will go the artist concerned.

Dr Retnakumar commended OFSA for having played a major role in hosting the 46 artistes.

“Without the OFSA, this event would not have been possible. Our sincere gratitude to Maryam Al Zadjali, the director of OFSA and the entire team for all the support.”

The event also helped celebrate the close and friendly Oman and India ties. “There are innumerable similarities between the two countries, especially in the promotion of peace.

These similarities are prime reasons which have prompted this Oman-India friendship initiative,” Dr Retnakumar noted. “We thank the Indian Embassy and Indra Mani Pandey for all the guidance in this endeavour.”

The event was powered by Bank Muscat. New India Assurance Company, Khimji Paints, Apollo Hospital and Insurance Services Centre were the partners of this unique event while Falcon Insurance Co., Vision Insurance Co., Lakhoos Exchange, Aster Hospital and VLCC extended their support.

AWA R D C E R E M O N Y

R O YA L E L U X U RY

Black & Gold: The new colours Al Ghad Al Mushriq felicitates its primary wing students of luxury from Berger Paints

MUSCAT: Gold and black are colours that best define luxury – they spell luxury, affluence, richness on one hand and strength, power, elegance on the other.

It is no wonder the new Royale Luxury interior emulsion by Berger Paints has chosen these colours for its new look – it is not just the packaging but the additional features that are ‘wowing’ the customers, says a press release.

Created with Luminotech technology, Royale Luxury offers the brightest colour, total opacity and excellent finish, be it silk or matt. In addition, it offers superior washability that does not leave scuff marks even after many washes (one of the highest offered by any paint company), offers resistance to spreading of fire in case of one, is environment friendly with near zero VOCs and MPI Green Certification. It is anti-microbial with no

added lead, low on odour and free of heavy metals and formaldehyde.

In other words, it is a product that does not compromise in quality and at the same time, makes for stunning interiors that last. In the coming weeks, the customers will be able to consult with the shop consultant at any retail outlet in Oman that is a dealer for Berger Paints, across Muscat, Nizwa, Sur, Rustaq, Sohar, Ibri or Sinaw.

“There have been a number of trainings and meetings held with the contractors, dealers and consultants to make them aware of the new Royale Luxury Emulsion, so that the same can be passed on to the discerning consumer. In addition, the product has also been showcased to select representatives from the ministries,” stated P. K. Raj, general manager - Oman.

“There is a lot more in store for the Berger Paints customers that will

There have been a number of trainings and meetings held with the contractors, dealers and consultants to make them aware of the new Royale Luxury Emulsion, so that the same can be passed on to the discerning consumer P. K. Raj

MUSCAT: Al Ghad Al Mushriq Private Bilingual School celebrated its annual award ceremony for the primary wing recently.

Every year the school felicitates its meritorious students.

This year about 100 children were felicitated. Naheed Naveed Atif, the chief guest appreciated the efforts put in by the school in bringing the best out of the students while also helping build their future.

Speaking on the occasion, Zeba Masood, principal of the school thanked the faculty and parents

for their continuous support.

The award ceremony also witnessed absorbing cultural events performed by the students and teachers. The confidence of comperes, award winners and student

council members added a touch of class to the evening.

Fatima Asif Suhail, senior head mistress of the school thanked all the participants for making the event a grand success.

DEVELOPING SKILLS

BankDhofar participates in women leadership seminar

General manager - Oman be revealed shortly,” he added.

To reach out to the customer directly, Berger Paints will be participating in upcoming exhibitions that will provide an interactive platform for customers to experience the diverse range offered by the brand as well as clarify any queries they may have. The team is confident that the superior products and finishes are sure to draw loyal as well as new customers to their stand that would be keen to create ‘wall’ masterpieces.

MUSCAT: Within its concentrated efforts to empower women and accelerate their professional development, BankDhofar participated in the women leadership seminar which was organised jointly by Ministry of Social Development and Crowe Horwath.

The seminar was conducted recently at Al Bustan Palace in Muscat and was facilitated by Dr Bernice Ledbetter, director of Center for Women in Leadership at Pepperdine University in California. The one-day event aimed to enable the participants to

build their leadership confidence, strengthen their leadership identity and develop their leadership vision, says a press release.

Meanwhile, Abdul Hakeem Omar Al Ojaili, acting CEO hon-

oured BankDhofar’s Women Bowling Team members who participated in the 11th Bowling Tournament that was organised by the Ministry of Sports Affairs at the Oman Bowling Centre in Al Khuwair.

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Bank Sohar meeting focuses on future strategy, reviews progress Held at the Crowne Plaza Muscat recently, the meeting provided an ideal platform to cooperatively discuss the bank’s strategy

MUSCAT: Bank Sohar, as part of its ongoing planning and in order to pave the way forward, recently organised a meeting bringing together the board and management to review progress and further discuss strategies in order to outline the future vision for the bank as it heads towards 2017.

Held at the Crowne Plaza Muscat recently, the meeting provided

an ideal platform to cooperatively discuss the bank’s strategy. It was headed by Abdullah Humaid Al Mamary, chairman of the board, together with other members of the Bank Sohar Board of Directors, and attended by members of the bank’s executive, senior, and middle management.

Commencing the meeting, Al Mamary touched upon the significant milestones Bank Sohar has crossed and reinstated the direction going forward. He noted, “In just under a decade of opera-

tions, Bank Sohar has grown into one of the leading banks within the Sultanate. Were it not for the expertise, skill and experience of the bank’s management and the dedication of its staff, this would not have been possible. Moreover, were it not for the loyalty of our customers, the bank would not be in the position of strength it is in now. Therefore, in order to continue moving forward, our aim is to augment these strengths and take our customer banking experience to the next level by continu-

ing to invest internally, as we move on the path towards becoming the leading bank in the Sultanate.”

Following the speech from Al Mamary, an open forum was held for board members and senior management to discuss the strategy and way forward, as well as to discuss any operational aspects pertaining to the bank and outline the future vision. In line with its operational philosophy, the focus of discussions on future strategy revolved around investing internally on technology, and maintain-

ing and elevating customer experience to deliver a seamless range of financial products and services, whether in the branch or via online channels. As one of the most important pillars of the organisation, the vital importance of individual team member performance was also highlighted, together with the steps that could be taken to help staff focus on excelling in their individual areas of expertise to help the bank achieve its longterm goals and deliver exceptional results. Expansion plans were also

discussed for the bank to increase its presence across the Sultanate with the opening of new branches, and the opening of new ATMs for improving customer convenience.

Commenting on the discussion, Sasi Kumar, acting CEO of Bank Sohar said, “The meeting was an ideal opportunity for us, the bank’s management, to meet with the board on an open platform and discuss our current growth strategy as we head into the New Year.

With this meeting now behind us and our goals set, we, the bank management, under the guidance of the board, will continue to work in synergy with our staff leveraging industry best practices and technology to offer our customers the very best banking experiences in the years ahead.”

Bank Sohar’s dedication to excellence in all facets of its operations and the hardwork put in by its management and staff is clearly evident from the wide range if awards and recognitions it receives both locally and internationally year after year.

NEW OFFER

AL RUMAILA MOTORS

Attractive benefits on Great Wall, Haval Ooredoo promotion MUSCAT: Al Rumaila Motors which is part of Zubair Automotive Group, the official distributor of Great Wall and Haval vehicles in Oman, has announced special new offers on its entire 2016 model line-up.

As part of the offer, all Great Wall and Haval models will be bundling their already attractively low prices with high-value cash backs, free service packages, free registration, and free insurance, says a press release.

Commenting on the offer, Sulaiman Al Rashdi, the brand manager of Great Wall and Haval at Al Rumaila Motors said, “Over these past 12 years, our range of Great Wall pickups have earned a reputation for their performance, reliability and extremely affordable pricing. With this latest promotion we are sweetening the deal even further by offering generous cash gifts, free insurance, comprehensive service package and more across our entire model range; making it a deal that is very hard to pass up.”

Valid till December 31, this of-

fer applies to all Haval and Great Wall models comprising the Haval H9, H6, and H2 and the Great Wall Wingle 5 and Wingle 6. As part of the offer, Al Rumailla Motors offered a free service package up to 3-years/100,000km, free registration, free insurance and cash gifts of up to OMR1,600. Each of these models also comes with three years/100,000km warranty and very affordable pricing.

“As part of this amazing offer, we will be ensuring that every model purchased will benefit from a cash gift of no less than OMR1,200 guaranteed; with some models receiving gifts of as high as OMR1,600 as mentioned earlier,” added Sulaiman.

Operating out of Azaiba, Rumaila Motors is the sole distributor for China’s Great Wall Motors in the Sultanate of Oman.

H E A LT H C A R E

The Great Wall brand, the largest supplier of pick up vehicles in China is recognised as one of the fastest growing carmakers in the international arena, a success which has been mirrored in Oman market. Strategically placed showrooms in the capital city and other regional towns, spotlight this emerging brand from one of the powerhouse economies of the world and Rumaila Motors is currently capitalising on Great Wall’s acclaimed durability, powerhouse capability and good looks, to boost market share.

Great Wall’s latest product offering of a complete new range of SUV vehicles under the Haval brand demonstrates the company’s progressive and leading stance in the auto sector. Launched in Oman earlier this year, Haval has already made a name for itself in the Sultanate for offering a range of reliable and capable SUVs that include the tough off-road Haval H9, practical and intelligent Haval H6, and stylish and user-friendly Haval H2.

gives non-stop home broadband services MUSCAT: Ooredoo has introduced an exciting new offer to its home broadband portfolio, with fantastic deals for non-stop quotas on ‘Fast’ (LTE) services. Customers can now surf the internet continuously, as well as receiving a free modem, installation and no upfront payment.

The offer introduces a range of ‘no contract’ variants with no early termination charges and one and two year contract options, with no upfront fees for installation or customer equipment, says a press release.

Jaffer Al Khaboori, director of Planning, Insights and Performance at Ooredoo, said, “Every day our lives become more connected. At home, there are more online gadgets, appliances, phones, tablets, and game consoles than ever before. We know

that customers want and need more data, so we have upgraded our home broadband services to make sure their growing use comes at the best value. As our service is nationwide, wherever customers are in Oman they will benefit from great speeds and the additional value that this promotion offers.”

Giving its customers choice, Ooredoo added more bundles to its home broadband, rolling out three new plans for their fast home broadband service.

Z - C O R P I N I T I AT I V E

Ortho department at Aster Muscat offers quality care to its customers MUSCAT: The Aster Hospital and Clinics Muscat’s orthopaedic team is one of the largest team in the region, providing patients with musculoskeletal disorders a whole range of diagnosis, treatments and surgeries.

The orthopaedic surgery programmes are closely aligned with the physiotherapy and dietetics departments, in order to treat patients comprehensively from pre-op to post op.

Whether it be a broken arm, an accident or complex surgeries such as total hip replacement; total knee reconstruction/replacement; anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and fixation of a meniscus tear (menisectomy); spine surgery; fixation of hip fractures; key hole surgery of the joints (arthroscopy), etc, Aster Hospital and Clinics is committed to providing complete orthopaedic care to patients of all ages, says a press release.

Utilising advanced technology along with their skills and expertise its distinguished team of orthopaedists perform complex procedures that are not offered anywhere else in the region.

The team consists of: Dr Chetan Narayan Salian, Dr Rakshith Sannegowda, Dr Mohammad Niaz, Dr Rajesh Pawar H. S., Dr Shibu T., Dr Raghu Hospet and Dr Nikhil Bharadwaj.

Dr Salian is an integral part of the Aster Al Raffah hospital orthopaedic team, and specialises in arthroplasty and arthroscopic surgery.

With over 22 years of orthopaedic experience, Dr Sannegowda is part of the Aster Al Raffah orthopaedic team as an orthopaedic surgeon who spe-

‘Iqra’ opens libraries in Sur Hospital

cialises in arthroplasty and arthroscopic surgery.

Dr Niaz, the resident orthopaedic spine surgeon at the Aster Al Raffah Hospital, is experienced with a host of regular and complex surgical procedures including – minimally invasive surgery (microdiscectomy) on the lumbar and cervical.

Dr Rajesh Pawar is a highly experienced orthopaedic surgeon of basic, complex and neglected trauma. He is also equipped with specialised training in hip joint surgeries, paediatric hip joint surgeries as well as joint preserving surgeries.

A highly accomplished surgeon, Dr Shibu T has been with Aster Al Raffah hospital since 2010 in the capacity of specialist orthopaedic surgeon.

Dr Hospet’s experience and skills make him a valuable asset

to the orthopaedics department at the Aster Al Raffah polyclinic in Ruwi.

With over 12 years of experience, Dr Bharadwaj has been with Aster Al Raffah hospital since 2013. His philosophy of care includes knowing the value of relationship with his patients and respect the challenges faced. His motto is to support his patients by giving them the best treatment possible along with heartfelt encouragements and prayers.

Since being established in 2009, the Aster Al Raffah Hospital and Clinics have been at the forefront of providing the people of Muscat with high quality orthopaedic care. Its orthopaedists go over and above their duties to ensure that patients receive the best possible diagnosis, treatment and recovery care for all their orthopaedic needs.

MUSCAT: To cultivate a reading culture and promote Omani literature, The Zubair Corporation (ZCorp) has opened three libraries at the Sur Hospital under the ‘Iqra’ initiative. While the idea behind Z-Corp’s ‘Iqra’ drive is to launch libraries in hospitals and public buildings, it also aims to encourage and promote Omani authors, says a press release.

Launched last year, the ‘Iqra’ libraries come as part of the ZCorp’s strategy and vision to support the Omani society with sustainable programmes. A brainchild of Z-Corp’s Social Advisory Committee, several libraries have already been opened across the country including three each in Nizwa, Rustaq, Ibra and Ibri hospitals, another four in Royal Hospital in Muscat and some libraries at the National Cardiology Centre at the Royal Hospital in Muscat and Samail Hospital.

Additionally, to recognise the writing talents of well-known and aspiring Omani authors, Iqra libraries have been stocked with books written by them.

Ibrahim Al Salmi, Social Communication manager at Z-Corp said, “We are pleased to open three libraries at the Sur Hospital. Our ‘Iqra’ initiative which focuses on promoting reading habits and es-

tablishing libraries stocked with books by Omani authors at public places has received a great response from the community. The concept ideated by our Social Advisory Committee is today playing a vital role in creating an environment that enhances learning and encourages Omani writers. These libraries have been helping local communities have better access to books and giving them knowledge enhancing opportunities in a favourable environment.”

Apprising that the group has already launched over 20 libraries across Oman, Al Salmi said, “We will continue to establish more libraries across governorates in the coming years. We are convinced that this well-intentioned endeavour will go a long way in stimulating a culture of reading and broadening the pursuit for knowledge. We are also delighted that Omani authors will gain a lot through this project.”

Stressing that the group’s objective is to indulge in communitybased initiatives that prioritise the needs of the society, “We are carrying out our national duty by supporting the Omani society and contributing to its development by promoting the principle of participation by the private sector.”

Z-Corp has supported Omani authors by purchasing their publi-

cations and making it available for reading at these public places.

Voicing his gratitude to the ZCorp, Dr Mohammed Al Alawi, acting manager director for Sur Hospital said, “Iqra is an opportunity that focuses on a partnership between the private and public sector in achieving social responsibility. That it is establishing libraries at government hospitals speaks of the group’s commitment to the society. This is a wonderful community initiative. These libraries will help keep the inpatients and their families occupied with something meaningful during their time in the hospital.”

He added, “The Sur Hospital management would like to wish The Zubair Corporation the best and we hope they fulfil its objective of encouraging young Omani writers to pursue literature.”

Faisal Al Alawi, a member of the Z-Corp’s Social Advisory Committee said, “We are encouraged by the response our libraries have received so far. We have got great feedback from established authors and young aspiring writers.

We hope this initiative gives birth to a revival of the Omani literature scene. Meanwhile our committee will attempt to take up new sustainable initiatives that will benefit society.”

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OMAN FOOTBALL CEO AL ZADJALI RESIGNS

Oman Football Association (OFA) CEO and General Secretary Sultan bin Amin Al Zadjali has tendered his resignation.

Al Zadjali apologised to the OFA board members while expressing his desire to not continue as the association’s CEO and General Secretary. >C3

Five-star Rabada bowls Proteas to emphatic victory over Aussies SCOREBOARD

South Africa 1st innings: 242 Australia 1st innings: 244 South Africa 2nd innings: 540 for 8 decl.

Australia 2nd innings: S. Marsh c du Plessis b Rabada 15 D. Warner run out 35 U. Khawaja lbw Duminy 97 S. Smith c de Kock b Rabada 34 A. Voges c de Kock b Rabada 1 M. Marsh lbw Rabada 26 P. Nevill (not out) 60 M. Starc lbw Rabada 13 P. Siddle lbw Philander 13 J. Hazlewood c Elgar b Bavuma 29 N. Lyon lbw Maharaj 8 Extras (b-13, lb-11, nb-2, w-4) 30 Total (all out, 119.1 overs) 361 Fall of wickets: 1-52, 2-52, 3-144, 4-146, 5-196, 6-246, 7-262, 8-280, 9-345.

Bowling: K. Rabada 31-6-92-5 (w-3); V. Philander 22-7-55-1; J. Duminy 17-1-51-1; K. Maharaj 40.1-10-94-1 (w-1); S. Cook 2-0-16-0; T. Bavuma 7-1-29-1 (nb-2).

Umpires: Aleem Dar, Nigel Llong TV umpire: Richard Kettleborough Match referee: Andy Pycroft

Australia’s batsmen were unable to cope with Rabada’s pace and swing as the 21-year-old took his fourth five-wicket haul in his ninth Test, making light of the absence of injured Dale Steyn

PERTH: Paceman Kagiso Rabada took five for 92 as South Africa completed an emphatic 177-run victory over Australia in the first Test at the WACA on Monday after dismissing the hosts for 361 just before tea on the final day.

The tourists claimed a third successive victory at the WACA after 2008 and 2012 triumphs and a 1-0 lead in the series, which continues in Hobart on Saturday and concludes with a day-night match at Adelaide Oval.

Australia’s batsmen were unable to cope with Rabada’s pace and swing as the 21-year-old took his fourth five-wicket haul in his ninth Test, making light of the absence of South Africa’s injured pace spearhead Dale Steyn.

It was Australia’s first Test defeat at home since that 2012 loss at the WACA and there was more bad news at the end of the day when it was confirmed that opener Shaun Marsh had broken his finger and would not play in Hobart.

South Africa declared on 540

JUBILANT: South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, centre, celebrates with his teammates during the fifth day of their first Test match against

Australia in Perth on Monday. – AFP

for eight after lunch on Sunday, leaving Australia with an imposing 539-run victory target or more realistically almost five sessions to bat out for a draw.

It was a remarkable turnaround after Australia, having dismissed South Africa for 242 on day one, were 158 without loss before collapsing to 244 all out.

“We had some harsh words at the end of day one, we were very disappointed with how we played, and we wanted to come back and put

TEST SERIES

in a real solid performance,” said South Africa captain Faf du Plessis.

“The way we responded was quite ridiculous, it was incredible the way we turned it around and we backed it up on day three. Since day one, it’s just been unbelievable.”

Australia had resumed on 169 for four on Monday and Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Marsh and Mitchell Starc were dismissed before lunch with Peter Siddle following after the break.

Peter Nevill, who finished on

60 not out, and Josh Hazlewood stalled the march to victory with a dogged partnership of 65 before Australia’s number 10 batsman was dismissed for 29 to give Temba Bavuma his maiden Test wicket.

Nathan Lyon extended the tail further with a 21-ball eight before he was trapped in front by debutant spinner Keshav Maharaj to conclude the match. “Disappointing,” said Australia captain Steve Smith. “We need to try and let this performance go and come out in

Hobart and try and turn it around.

“We’re going to have to play better cricket against a quality South African team if we’re going to do it.”

Khawaja had provided the most spirited resistance for much of the innings and after he fell lbw to JP Duminy’s part-time spin three runs shy of his fifth Test century, Australia’s already tough task looked all bar impossible.

Man of the Match Rabada accounted for Mitchell Marsh (26) and Starc (13), both lbw, to take his

match tally to seven wickets.

Bavuma, whose brilliant run out accounted for opener David Warner on Sunday, almost claimed another key victim with his first delivery in Test cricket. Khawaja, on 84, was plumb lbw after the ball hit a crack and thudded into his front pad but the 26-year-old had overstepped the mark and umpire Nigel Llong called a no-ball.

Lefthander Khawaja had started the morning on 58 and continued to display the same grit and determination that got him through to the close on day four, hitting 11 fours and three sixes in his 182ball knock. Duminy’s first delivery skidded into Khawaja’s back pad, however, and the 29-year-old became the second Australian batsman to perish on 97 after Warner in the first innings, the wicket that triggered the collapse. - Reuters

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England face trial by spin against India

FIGHTBACK: Brian Chari played sensibly to help Zimbabwe provide a healthy reply to Sri Lanka. – AFP

Zimbabwe rally after losing early wickets HARARE: Zimbabwe lost two early wickets but recovered to finish 126 for two at the close on the second day of the second Test on Monday in reply to Sri Lanka’s first-innings total of 504.

Brian Chari and Craig Ervine were both 60 not out as Zimbabwe fought back after a poor start when they slumped to 17 for two but the hosts still trail by 378 runs. Sri Lanka, who won a closely contested first test last week, went from 290 for five overnight to being dismissed just before tea with Asela Gunaratne completing a maiden Test century.

Dhanajaya de Silva was before

caught and bowled by Zimbabwe skipper Graeme Cremer for 127.

Gunaratne, playing his second Test, made 116 and was the last man out.

He was on 91 when the ninth wicket went down and had to watch as No. 11 Lahiru Kumara fended off the Zimbabwe bowlers before reclaiming the strike and moving to three figures.

Sri Lanka’s stand-in captain Rangana Herath took the wickets of Tino Mawoyo and Hamilton Masakadza in the same over as Zimbabwe’s openers again failed to get their team off to a solid start. - Reuters

SCOREBOARD

Sri Lanka 1st innings: Karunaratne c Williams b Masakadza 26 K. Silva lbw b Mpofu 37 K. Perera c Mumba b H. Masakadza 4 K. Mendis c Moor b Tiripano 26 U. Tharanga c H. Masakadza b Cremer 79 D. de Silva c & b Cremer 127 A. Gunaratne st Moor b Williams 116 D. Perera lbw b Cremer 34 R. Herath c Moor b Tiripano 27 S. Lakmal b Tiripano 0 L. Kumara not out 7 Extras (b-9, lb-8, nb-2, w-2) 21 Total (all out, 144.4 overs) 504 Fall of wickets: 1-62, 2-66, 3-84, 4-112, 5-255, 6-342, 7-396, 8-471, 9-471, 10-504 Bowling: C. Mumba 23-4-80-0, D.

Tiripano 32-4-91-3 (nb-2, w-2), C. Mpofu 23-4-92-1, H. Masakadza 13-4-34-2, G. Cremer 40-1-136-3, S. Williams 8.4-1-31-1, M. Waller 5-0-23-0 Zimbabwe 1st innings: T. Mawoyo lbw b Herath 3 B. Chari not out 60 H. Masakadza c D. de Silva b Herath 0 C. Ervine not out 60 Extras (b-2, lb-1) 3 Total (for 2 wickets, 35 overs) 126 Fall of wickets: 1-17, 2-17 To bat: S. Williams, M. Waller, P. Moor, G. Cremer, D. Tiripano, C. Mumba, C. Mpofu Bowling: S. Lakmal 9-1-23-0, R. Herath 11-144-2, L. Kumara 6-0-24-0, D. Perera 6-1-23-0, A. Gunaratne 2-0-5-0, D. de Silva 1-0-4-0

MUMBAI: Alastair Cook’s England seem to have neither the form nor the resources to repeat their 2012 heroics against an Indian team determined to cement their top Test rankings in a fivematch series starting at Rajkot on Wednesday.

England’s two-Test series in Bangladesh was meant to be a dress rehearsal for their batsmen who are likely to be subjected to relentless spin on similarly turning tracks in India.

Instead, Cook and his men landed with bruised egos, having lost the second Test in Dhaka inside three days to settle for a 1-1 share of the series against the world’s ninth ranked test team.

They did not look very convincing in their victory in the Chittagong test either but bigger shocks awaited them in Dhaka where they lost 10 wickets in a session, exposing their frailties against spinners on turning wickets.

The last time England toured India in 2012, Cook’s side suffered a thumping loss in the opening test at Ahmedabad but then turned the tables on the hosts to win the four-match series 2-1.

Since then, India have not lost a Test at home, blanking Australia and West Indies, crushing South Africa and whitewashing New Zealand in September.

Cook accepted his team would go into the series as the underdogs.

“It’s a big challenge,” the 31-year-old told reporters in Mumbai. “Any time you play the number one or the number two ranked team in their backyard, who are very comfortable in their conditions, it’s a huge task for us.

“It’s a huge challenge to these guys who have not played a huge amount of cricket in the subcontinent as a group.”

That showed in Bangladesh where teenage off-spinner Mehedi Hasan claimed 19 wickets in his debut series, with 38 of the 40 English wickets claimed by the slow bowlers. Off-spinner

WARMING UP: Ahead of the first Test match against England, Indian players practice at Rajkot on

Monday. – PTI FA C T B O X

FIXTURES (all start at 0400 GMT): 1st Test - November 9-13, Rajkot 2nd Test - November 17-21, Visakhapatnam 3rd Test - November 26-30, Chandigarh 4th Test - December 8-12, Mumbai 5th Test - December 16-20, Chennai INDIA Test rankings: 1 Captain: Virat Kohli Coach: Anil Kumble Squad: Gautam Gambhir, Murali Vijay, Karun Nair, Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Wriddhiman Saha (wicketkeeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Amit Mishra, Ravindra Jadeja, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Jayant Yadav, Hardik Pandya ENGLAND Test rankings: 4 Captain: Alastair Cook

Ravichandran Ashwin, who took 58 wickets in India’s last seven home Tests against South Africa and New Zealand, will be licking his lips at the prospect of bowling against the English batsmen.

Ashwin-Jadeja combo Virat Kohli’s India can also call on Ravindra Jadeja’s left-arm spin to provide a foil for Ashwin, cur-

Coach: Trevor Bayliss Squad: Cook, Moeen Ali, Zafar Ansari, Jonny Bairstow (wicketkeeper), Jake Ball, Gary Ballance, Gareth Batty, Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler, Ben Duckett, Steven Finn, Haseeb Hameed, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Chris Woakes, James Anderson.

HEAD TO HEAD: Total: 112; England wins: 43; India wins: 21; Draws: 48 In India: Total matches: 55; India wins: 15; England wins: 13; Draws: 27 LAST FIVE TESTS: 2014 - England won by an innings & 244 runs, The Oval 2014 - England won by an innings & 54 runs, Manchester 2014 - England won by 266 runs, Southampton 2014 - India won by 95 runs, Lord’s 2014 - Match drawn, Nottingham

rently the top ranked Test bowler.

Batting might not prove to be the touring side’s only challenge in the series.

England’s 2012 success was built on the heroics of off-spinner Graeme Swann and left-armer Monty Panesar but their slow bowling resources have thinned.

The likes of Moeen Ali, Gareth Batty, Zafar Ansari or Adil

Rashid will have to conjure up something special to succeed against Indian’s wristy and nimble-footed batsmen.

The tourists received a timely boost with James Anderson cleared to join the test squad in India even though England’s leading test wicket-taker, recovering from a shoulder injury, will miss the opener in Rajkot.

India’s only worry seems to be at the top of the batting order with openers Lokesh Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan missing the first two Tests while a third injured batsman Rohit Sharma has been ruled out of the entire series with a thigh injury. Batsman Karun Nair and all-rounder Hardik Pandya are vying to make a Test debut in Rajkot, which will be hosting its first Test at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium.

If England can boast one edge, it might be in its experience using the Decision Review System.

The DRS, with all its component, will be employed for the first time in a bilateral series in India after years of resistance from the local cricket board which has agreed to accept it on a trial basis. - Reuters

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Not my last contract with Real: Ronaldo The 31-year-old forward joined Real in 2009 and is the European champions’ all-time leading scorer with 371 goals in 360 games

MADRID: Cristiano Ronaldo’s new five-year contract with Real Madrid which ties him to the Spanish club until the age of 36 will not be his last, he said on Monday.

The 31-year-old forward joined Real in 2009 and is the European champions’ all-time leading scorer with 371 goals in 360 games.

“The numbers are impressive. I certainly never expected to make history at the best club in the world,” the Portugal captain told a news conference.

“This new contract is a dream come true. But this is my penultimate contract. I want to end my career at Real. This is the club that is in my heart and I will always be linked to it.”

A three-times world player of the year, Ronaldo has helped Real win one La Liga title, two King’s Cups and two Champions League trophies in seven seasons in Madrid. “I want to continue to

ALL SMILES: Real Madrid’s Portuguese forward Cristiano

Ronaldo, centre, club president Florentino Perez and Portugal’s forward Cristiano Ronaldo’s mother Maria Dolores dos Santos Aveiro, right, pose during the official presentation of Ronaldo’s contract renewal, in the presidential box at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid. – AFP

give my best,” he said. “To continue to make history, win titles and score goals.”

Ronaldo is targeting 500 goals for Real. “It’s possible,” he said.

“I’m not going to obsess about it. Of course, goals are great and I identify myself with that. The most important thing are titles.”

Ronaldo is short-listed for the world player of the year award again after winning the Champions League with Real in May and captaining Portugal to their first European Championship title.

“This is the best moment of my life,” he said. “To win the Champions League, then win Euro 2016 and sign a new contract with this club, I can’t ask for more. It’s truly special.”

Ronaldo has failed to score in five successive games at the Ber-

nabeu stadium but he has mustered seven goals in 12 appearances this season and he thanked Real president Florentino Perez for his unwavering support.

“Football has no memory, but you (Perez) have a memory and so does Real Madrid and that makes me happy,” he said. “During a career, there are good and bad times but I always want to learn and football teaches you a lot.”

Perez is predicting many more great moments from Ronaldo, who earns about 350,000 pounds ($435,000) a week according to media reports.

“You never give up, you always want more and for that reason you remain in this club,” Perez told Ronaldo. “We know there will be more from you because you never get tired of winning.” - Reuters

CRICKET

We have plans on how to approach DRS: Rahane RAJKOT: The Decision Review System will be in focus when India take on England in the upcoming five-Test series and the home team’s vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane today said the side has made some plans on how to approach the controversial technology.

“It’s a completely new concept. We have to wait and see about DRS. We have been discussing about this from the last series (against New Zealand) and we have (formulated) some plans. We will spend some (more) time explaining about DRS (to team members), how it works and how we should approach it, but the main focus is to play good, attacking cricket and DRS will come later on,” Rahane told reporters ahead of the series starting on Wednesday here.

The DRS, which had been vehemently opposed by the BCCI in the past citing lack of accuracy, finally got its approval for the upcoming series on a trial basis.

India had refused to play under DRS after getting the rough end of the system in Sri Lanka eight years ago. “We are looking to play some good cricket. Right now we are focussed on building our strength and playing to our strengths,” said Rahane.

Rahane said the wicketkeeper and himself as a specialist slip fielder will need to give proper inputs to the captain to make optimum use of DRS. “The wicketkeeper is very important (in the use of DRS) and as a slip fielder you have that role to convey the message to the captain and the bowler. We have to wait and see how it goes in the series. “And as a batsman you are completely involved in the game.

You have to see where the ball is going and convey it to your partner. You have to be sure (whether to ask for a review or not) all the time,” he said. — PTI TEST

We have to be careful with referrals: Broad RAJKOT: England are quite familiar with the Decision Review System (DRS) but they have to be very cautious while opting for referrals in the upcoming series against India due to different conditions here, Stuart Broad said.

“We had a lot of referrals over there. We have got to be quite clear with the communication, It’s a bit different with the ball spinning in India rather than it seaming and swinging in England, so it is a bit hard to judge,” Broad said.

“It will play a big part in this series.” - PTI

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

C3

SPORTS AT H L E T I C S

FOOTBALL

Al Zadjali resigns as Oman FA CEO

GREAT RACE: Winners in various categories along with all the participants pose for a group photo after the conclusion of the second race of the MRR Zawawi Colas Winter Series. – Supplied photo

Emmet Jennings emerges overall winner at MRR Winter Series race MUSCAT: Emmet Jennings emerged the overall winner at the second race of the Muscat Road Runners Zawawi Colas Winter Series organised here recently.

The second race of the series took place at Al Ghubra Lakes Park with 65 people racing a fast and flat 10k around Al Ghubra and the Ministries district.

After a stiff competition, Em-

met Jennings took the overall top honours in a time of 35:13.

Edward Black in 37:07 took the second place while Stephen Griffiths in 42:39 finished third. Birgit Schulz was the first female and fifth overall in a time of 43:45.

The winner of the 3.5km junior race was James in a time of 19:43.

Ollie finished second in 22:31 and Lucy third in 27:38.

CRICKET

Mangalore tourney on November 24 MUSCAT: The Mangalore Cricket Tournament, hosted by the Al Hail School of Cricket, will take place at Al Hail Cricket Ground on November 24.

The matches in the inaugural event, which is being sponsored

by Oasis Water and Pocari Sweat, will be organised under floodlights with the action beginning at 7.00 p.m.

The teams who have confirmed their participation are MCCS Sohar A, MCCS Sohar B, MRCB, Kudla Strikers, Rising Stars, MFC, Kudla Blasters, Mangaluru Friends, VR1 Ghala and Friends XI. There will also be a women’s

event. The teams that have registered their entries are MCCP Strikers, MCCS Challengers and Mangalore Stars.

Growth of cricket Al Hail Cricket Academy chief Moula Baksh Al Balushi expressed immense pride at the academy’s decision to host the inaugural Mangalore Cricket Tournament event.

“We are proud to facilitate the participation and growth of cricket among the local communities in Oman,” Moula Baksh Al Balushi said.

For further details contact Deepak D’Souza (Ph: 98887478).

The organisers thanked race directors, the volunteers, water stations, photographs and Winter Series sponsors Zawawi Colas for supporting the event.

The next race will be organised on November 25. For further details visit www.muscatroadrunners.

Winter Series Race 2 (agecategory podium positions): Female Open: 1. Elizabeth Mu-

setti 45:10; 2. Irene Ng’eno 48:09; 3. Sally Hart 48:46. Female Veteran: 1. Birgit Schulz 43:45; 2.

Helen Chapell 56:46. Male Open: 1. Emmet Jennings 35:13; 2. Edward Black 37.07; 3. Stephen Griffiths 42:39. Male Veteran: 1. Rory Davies 45:39; 2. Andy Chapell 46:17; 3. James Shorter 46:23. Male Super-Veteran: 1. Paul Vlaarkamp 55:00; 2. Rob Borjal 58:34.

MUSCAT: Oman Football Association (OFA) CEO and General Secretary Sultan bin Amin Al Zadjali has tendered his resignation.

Al Zadjali apologised to the OFA board members while expressing his desire to not continue as the association’s CEO and General Secretary. His resignation comes just over a month after the new board members, under the chairmanship of Sheikh Salim bin Said Al Wahaibi, started their 2016-2020 term of office.

The OFA board is yet to accept his resgination.

Al Zadjali was appointed as the General Secretary and the acting

CEO of the OFA on November 1, 2014. He succeeded Saleh bin Abdullah Al Farsi.

Al Zadjali served in various other IT and administrative posts before being appointed as the CEO of the OFA. - ONA

C4

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2016

SPORTS Arab Golf Championship tees off at Ghala GC today

M O R O C C A N S D O M I NAT E

The championship,

Rachid wins third round of Oman Desert Marathon BIDIYA: Morocco’s Rachid El Morabity overcame difficult conditions and stiff competition to win the third round of the Oman Desert Marathon on Sunday. El Morabity covered the 26km race in a time of 2:09:24.

Ukrain’s Evgenii Gilyva (2:13:48) finished second while Jordan’s Salameh Al Aqra (2:17:13) settled for the third palce. Oman’s Sami Al Saidi and

Moosa Al Balushi finished fourth and sixth respectively.

Meanwhile, Morocco’s Aziza Raji won the first place in the women’s 26km race in a time of 3:34:09 followed by Portugal’s Carla Andre (3:55:39) and Switzerland’s Barbara Trechslin (4:01:36).

The 28-km fourth round of the 165-km Marathon will take place on Tuesday. - ONA

CRICKET

Deloitte, EY record victories

which will run till November 13, will see participation of top golfers from 13 Arab countries

MUSCAT: The Oman Golf Committee (OGC) is all set to organise the 36th Arab Golf Championship at the Ghala Golf Club from Tuesday.

The championship, which will run till November 13, will see participation of top golfers from 13 Arab countries.

According to OGC chairman Mundhir bin Salim Al Barwani the championship will be officially inaugurated by Sheikh Saad bin Mohammed bin Said Al Mardhouf Al Saadi, the Minister of Sports Affairs, in the presence of Sheikh Khalid bin Omar bin Said Al Marhoon, Minister of Civil Service, and other top sports officials.

The OGC chief also declared the Sultanate’s readiness to host a successful championship while announcing the details of the event.

“Hosting of the Arab championship is in continuation of OGC’s commitment to organise successful tournaments,” Al Barwani said while referring to the success the Sultanate had in hosting the GCC

HIGH EXPECTATIONS: A file photo of Oman national golf team. – Supplied photo

championships in the past.

With the exception of Kuwait and Algeria, the other Arab countries have confirmed their participation and they are the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Tunisia, Egypt, Morocco, Libya and Lebanon besides hosts Oman. The Libyan and the UAE teams were among the first teams to arrive.

Favourites The OGC chief also said that championship will produce exciting golf.

“We are expecting some exciting golf both in the individual and team competitions as all the teams will be looking get good results.”

Speaking about the favourites to clinch the top honours, he said: “Morocco and Bahrain teams will be the top favourites thanks to their experience and talent of their individual players.

The Tunisians are the other strong contenders and so are some of the Gulf teams.”

Al Barwani is also expecting a strong show from Oman team, which will comprise Azzan Al Rumhy, Ali Hameed, Fahd Al Kitani and Ahmed Al Balushi.

“We are expecting our stars to do well in the championship.

They are in good touch after taking part in the recent Oman Amateur Championship organised on the sidelines of NBO Golf Classic

Grand Final. These players have also taken part in different international tournaments in recent time and we hope that experience will come in handy for them.”

AGF meeting The OGC chief, meanwhile, thanked the Ghala Golf Club for providing the right facilities and technical and administrative staff for organising the tournament.

He also thanked the Ministry of Sports Affairs for fully supporting their efforts aimed in organising a successful event.

Al Barwani also informed that the Arab Golf Federation will have a meeting on the sidelines of the championship.

FOOTBALL

Bank Muscat’s Green Sports to benefit 15 teams MUSCAT: Deloitte and EY scored wins in the Al Yam Enterprises Auditors Cricket Cup. Deloitte beat HC Shah in the first match, while EY eased past IBN Hayan in the match that followed.

Put into bat first, HC Shah scored 64 runs for the loss of four wickets in 8 overs. Nikhil top scored with unbeaten 31 runs.

Atif claimed three wickets for Deloitte, who chased down the

target in the seventh over. Majid led the run chase with 26 runs.

Atif of Deloitte was declared the man of the match.

In the second match, EY put into bat amassed 107 runs with Soud remaining unbeaten on 31 and Omar contributing 36 runs.

In reply, IBN Hayan could manage only 62 for 4 in 8 overs to lose by 45 runs. Soud walked away with the man of the match trophy.

MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, has started receiving applications for 2017 Green Sports programme, according to a statement issued by the bank on Monday.

Marking the sixth year of the unique Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, the bank will support the development of 15 football fields across the Sultanate in 2017 in line with the ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and partnership

to promote Oman as a sporting nation. Green Sports application forms can be downloaded from the Bank Muscat website www.bankmuscat.com and are also available at the CSR department in the bank’s head office.

The bank will consider only new applications and the completed forms with supporting documents must be submitted at the head office before December 8.

The Green Sports initiative

launched by Bank Muscat back in 2012 has gained momentum with a total of 63 teams across the Sultanate benefiting from the support till date.

The scope of Green Sports support for sports teams include greening of football fields with natural or synthetic turf, floodlights facilities or water desalination equipment in areas facing problems of water salinity.

Providing wider representa-

tion, the Green Sports support is extended to develop sustainable sports infrastructure in all parts of the Sultanate.

The criteria for availing the Green Sports support include that sports teams should have been in existence for three years with a minimum of 300 members from the local community.

For further details contact the bank officials (Ph:24768987 or 24768505).

OMAN CRICKET LEAGUE

MCCC ease to seven-wicket win over ISD in U-19 match MUSCAT: Muscat Cricket Coaching Centre (MCCC) eased to a seven-wicket victory over Indian School Darsait (ISD) in the Khimji Ramdas-sponsored Junior Division Under-19 cricket tournament at the Ministry of Sports Affairs Ground II. Batting first, ISD were bowled out for 88 in 26.2 overs.

Ameen Majeed claimed five wickets for MCCC. In reply, MCCC scored 89 for three in 12.4 overs with Ameen Majeed and Mohammed Moshin scoring 33 runs each.

Brief scores: ISD 88 in 26.2 overs (Ameen Majeed 5/17) lost to MCCC 89 for 3 in 12.4 overs (Ameen Majeed 33, Mohammed Moshin 33). Points: MCCC – 5, ISD – 0.

ISAS down PSM In Al Turki-sponsored Under-16 B tournament, Indian School Al Seeb (ISAS) recorded an easy nine-wicket win over Pakistan School Muscat (PSM). Batting first, PSM scored 124 for seven in 20 overs. Ahsan Javed top scored with 53. Arul Sajeevkumar claimed our wickets for ISAS. In reply, ISAS raced to 128 the loss of just one wicket in 12.3 overs. Mohammed Kaif top scored with an unbeaten 57.

Brief scores: PSM 124 for 7 in 20 overs

ISM PERFORMERS: Bharat SriniMCCC STAR: Ameen Majeed.

U-13 B: BOC B players celebrate their victory over ISWK B.

(Ahsan Javed 53; Arul Sajeev 4/20) lost to ISAS 128 for 1 in 12.3 overs (Mohammed Kaif 57 n.o.). Points: PSM – 0, ISAS – 3.

Easy for ISM A In an U13 A match, Indian School Muscat A (ISM A) team defeated Pakistan School Muscat by nine wickets. Batting first, PSM were bowled out for 100 in 16.4 overs.

Bilal Asim top scored with 33 uns.

Bharath Srinivas claimed three wickets for ISM A. In reply, ISM A scored 101 for one in 8.2 overs.

Adarsh Nair (45 not out) top scored.

Brief scores: PSM 100 in 16.4 overs (Bilal Asim 33; Bharath Srinivas 3/17) lost to

ISWK A HERO: Yash Hemal Mehta.

vas and Adarsh Nair. – Supplied photo

in 20 overs. Kamalesh Reddy top scored with 45 runs.

Brief scores: ISAS 85 for 9 in 20 overs (Lakshmi Narayanapura 3/7) lost to ISG 87 for 1 in 9.4 overs (Gokul Lal 30 n.o). Points: ISAS – 0, ISG – 3.

Brief scores: BOC B 147 in 20 overs (Yashvardhan 60; Jaykrishnan 3/35) bt ISWK B 138 for 6 in 20 overs (Kamalesh Reddy 45). Points: ISWK B – 0, BOC B – 2.

ISM A 101 for 1 in 8.2 overs (Adarsh Nair 45 n.o). Points: PSM – 0, ISM A – 3.

BOC B beat ISWK B In an Under-13 B match, BOC B defeated Indian School Al Wadi Al

Kabir B (ISWK B) by nine runs.

Batting first, BOC B were bowled out for 147 in 20 overs. Yashvardhan top scored with 60. Jaykrishnan claimed three scalps for ISWK B. In reply, ISWK B scored 138 for six

Nine-wicket win for ISG In another Under-13 B match, Indian School Al Ghubra (ISG) eased to a nine-wicket win over Indian School Al Seeb (ISAS). Batting first, ISAS put on 85 for nine in 20 overs.

Lakshmi Narayanapura claimed three wickets for ISG. In reply, ISG scored 87 for one in 9.4 overs. Gokul Lal top scored with an unbeaten 30.

Yash stars for ISWK A In an Under-13 A match, ISWK A defeated ISM B by 51 runs. Batting first, ISWK A put on 165 for six in 20 overs. Yash Mehta top scored with an unbeaten 78. In reply, ISM B were bowled for 114 in 19.5 overs. Amanpreet Singh claimed four wickets.

Brief scores: ISWK A 165 for 6 in 20 overs (Yash Mehta 78 n.o.) bt ISM B 114 in 19.5 overs (Amanpreet Singh 4/21). Points: ISM B – 0, ISWK A – 3.

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

VACANCY

D2

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T U E S D AY, N OV E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

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T U E S DAY, N O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE

FOR SALE

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Wanted Construction Company for outright sale. With 20-30 labour and Engineer Contact 98201203/71168751

MATRIMONIAL Tamil Hindu boy 34 years, working as Marketing Senior Executive in reputed organization, with family status seeking for Hindu Tamil girl preferably working / home maker in Muscat , Wanted to finalized may.

Contact: 94026388 Marriage makers widow/ divorce/ new for Indian Kerala & Indian Muslims. Contact: Whatsapp: 00968 98796982 & calling 98604960 Ezhavaboy age 28 height 174cm Star anizhamBTech working in Oman Seeks suitable alliance.

Contact 99430227

D4

T U E S D AY, N OV E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT Reputed mineral water company required the following HEAVY/LIGHT DUTY DRIVERS VAN SALESMAN with Omani driving license

SALES SUPERVISOR/SALES KͳKZ /E dKZ with Omani driving license , >W Z^ ͳ džƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ϯ ƚŽϱ LJĞĂƌƐ

Contact - 90372638 tĂŶƚĞĚ &ĞŵĂůĞ 'LJŶĂĞĐŽůŽŐŝƐƚ ͕ Female GP and One Female Dental ƐƐŝƐƚ ĂŶĚ &ĞŵĂůĞ >Ăď dĞĐŚŶŝĐŝĂŶ͕ ƐƐƚ WŚĂƌŵĂĐŝƐƚ͘ ;&ƌŽŵ /ŶĚŝĂ Žƌ WŝůŝƉŝŶŽ Ϳ͘ tŝƚŚ Žƌ ǁŝƚŚŽƵƚ DK, >ŝĐĞŶƐĞ ĂŶĚ ĂƚĂ &ůŽǁ ĨŽƌ ů ^ĂĂĚŝ ^ƉĞĐŝůŝƐĞĚ DĞĚŝĐĂů ĞŶƚƌĞ͕ DƵƐĂŶŶĂ͘

Contact # 91262604, ŵĂŝů / ͗ ĐŚŝůůĂƉĂůůŝϳϲΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ

ACCOUNTS Urgent requirement Accountant B.Com Graduate minimum 3 to 4 years experience in Accounts and Oman D/L is preferable.

Send CV to Email: omaniacademy@gmail.com Urgently required an “Accountant” with minimum 5 years experience, well versed in Tally for a reputed Construction Company in Muscat. Interested candidates those who can join locally may forward C.V. to e-mail: assaud@omantel.net.om or FAX: 24953530 Accountant 2-3 years experience.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh@ bearingcitysc.com. Fax: 24509312

BEAUTICIAN Wanted experienced Indian / Philipino hair dresser / beautician for reputed ladies beauty center at Muscat.

Contact : 99791572 / 97453246 Email: radianceoman@gmail.com

CATERING Restaurant waiter, cook and helper. Visa available.

Contact: 95212017

DRIVER Required Driver / Business Coordinator should speak Eng/Hindi/ Arabic. Contact: 95327813 Omani Driver required with light license, must hold ROP license for at least 5 years with good knowledge of Oman roads & be able to converse in English. Send your CV: recruitmentmct21@gmail.com Wanted Driver for heavy (sewage vehicle) and light vehicle with valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 97991654 / 97991652 Kindly send CV at Email: construction@remasalseeb.com / remaschandran2020@gmail.com

DOMESTIC HELPER House maid required full time for an Indian family, salary RO 150/- , visa not available.

Contact : 96999333

DRAFTSMAN Draftsman with Oman experience needed to work on consultancy office in Muscat, send CV & works to: hr@touchcdc.com.

Contact : 99441122

MANAGER Required cleaning supervisor with 5 years experience can speak English & little Arabic. Should have driving license.

Contact : 92876832

MEDICAL Urgently required Staff Nurse clinic in Barka. MOH license preferred. Contact 92217469 Urgently required Orthodontist and Arabic speaking Pediatrician for a reputed poly clinic. Send the CV to manageribnalhaitham@ yahoo.com or Contact: 96721709 Required General practitioner & MD specialist MOH license for medical centre at Azaiba, Muscat.

Contact: 91960401 Email: n_thanigaimani@yahoo.com Wanted Radiologist, Internal Medicine specialist (male/ female) for a reputed Polyclinic, in Sultanate of Oman.

Send CV: arunjeni11@gmail.com or contact 97101062

SIT. WANTED

URGENTLY REQUIRED Staff Nurses, Pharmacists, Lab Technicians and Radiographers.

Physiotherapists & Receptionists (Preferable females) For Al Raazi Hospital in Salalah.

Forward resume to rafeekdr@gmail.com ZĞƉƵƚĞĚ ĂŵďƌŝĚŐĞ ^ĐŚŽŽůƐ ŝŶ DƵƐĐĂƚ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞ ǁĞůů YƵĂůŝĮ ĞĚ dĞĂĐŚĞƌƐ ĨŽƌ /' ^ Θ W ĨŽƌ ; ŶŐůŝƐŚ͕ DĂƚŚƐ͕ WŚLJƐŝĐƐ͕ ŚĞŵŝƐƚƌLJ͕ ŝŽůŽŐLJ͕ ^ĐŝĞŶĐĞƐ͕ <'Ͳ dĞĂĐŚĞƌ͕ ůĂď ĂƐƐŝƐƚĂŶƚͲ ŚĞŵŝƐƚƌLJ ĂŶĚ WŚLJƐŝĐƐͿ͗

Indian male B.Com having 10 years experience (5 years in KSA) with valid Oman driving license.

Accounting (Tally), marketing& customer service. Looking for suitable positions. Contact 95352176, shences1980@gmail.com Female Accountant, B.Com Graduate with 10 years experience in Oman with D/L looking for suitable position. Contact 91443796 Part Time Accountant.

Contact: 99882790

ϭ͘ 'ŽŽĚ ŶŐůŝƐŚ >ĂŶŐƵĂŐĞ ǁŝƚŚ ĂŶ / >d^ ƐĐŽƌĞ ŽĨ ϳ Žƌ ĂďŽǀĞ Ϯ͘ ,ŽůĚ Ă ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝnjĞĚ D^Đ ͬ ^Đ ͬ ͬ ͘ ĚĞŐƌĞĞ ĨƌŽŵ Ă ƌĞĐŽŐŶŝnjĞĚ ƵŶŝǀĞƌƐŝƚLJ ĨŽƌ ƉƌŝŵĂƌLJͬƐĞĐŽŶĚĂƌLJ ϯ͘ DŝŶŝŵƵŵ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ϯ LJĞĂƌƐ͛ ƉƌĞĨĞƌĂďůLJ ŝŶ ŝŶƚĞƌŶĂƟ ŽŶĂů ƐĐŚŽŽů ϰ͘ <ŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ ŽĨ ĂŵďƌŝĚŐĞ /ŶƚĞƌŶĂƟ ŽŶĂů WƌŽŐƌĂŵ ĨŽƌ Ăůů ůĞǀĞůƐ ŝƐ ĂŶ advantage. ϳ͘ Ʃ ƌĂĐƟ ǀĞ ƐĂůĂƌLJ ĂŶĚ ďŽŶƵƐĞƐ ďĂƐĞĚ ŽŶ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ĂŶĚ ĐĞƌƟ Į ĐĂƟ ŽŶ ͬ degrees

Indian Accountant having 8 years experience in Accounts (5 years ) in Saudi, Oman driving license excellent knowledge in tally, focus, quick books & MS. Office, seeking suitable placement. Contact: 93878624 Email: arunjames88@gmail.com

WůĞĂƐĞ ƐƵďŵŝƚ ͘s ƚŽ͗Ͳ ǁƉƐϭϵϴϲΛLJĂŚŽŽ͘ĐŽŵ WůĞĂƐĞ ĐĂůů͗ ϮϰϴϳϮϰϮϰ ͕ ϮϰϴϳϳϰϬϮ ĂŶĚ ϮϰϴϳϴϭϴϮ

Indian male, B.Com, MBA in Finance, 4 yrs in Larsen & Tourbo, 26 yrs in Oman, English/ Arabic speaking with driving license. NOC available. Contact 95588565

hƌŐĞŶƚůLJ ZĞƋƵŝƌĞĚ

PLANT OPERATOR ŝƉůŽŵĂ ͬ /d/ ŝŶ ůĞĐƚƌŝĐĂů ŶŐŝŶĞĞƌŝŶŐ ;&ƌĞƐŚĞƌ͛Ɛ ͬ džƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚͿ͘ WƌĞĨĞƌĞŶĐĞ will be given to candidates with ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ MASA / HENKE / BESSER Concrete Block DĂŶƵĨĂĐƚƵƌŝŶŐ WůĂŶƚƐ͘

Fax: 00968 - 24490463 E-mail : cfovacoman011@gmail.com MEDICAL Wanted Orthodontist, Pedodontist and oral surgeon, implantologist for a specialty dental clinic. Email medident5000@gmail.com Fusion Medicare Polyclinic, Muscat wants GP, staff Nurse holding MOH license & Receptionist (Omani) Contact 97698004 email: medicare@fusionlogicoman.com Required General Physician, Gynecology & LAB & X ray Technician. Contact: 99681325 Email: altaqwamedicalcentre@gmail.com Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 92989109, medicoport@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS A Lead courier & cargo company requires: Accountant male / female, Marketing male / female, Customer service head male / female & driver male. Send CV to info@atsglobex.com / naushad@atsglobex.com Contact: 00968 - 99101733 Required Indian female: Investment Manager – Offer (10001800) RO & depend in experiences & getting projects. Secretary of office trade offer (750) RO, MEP Engineer & AC & Plumbing Technician.

Email : joboman2017@gmail.com Urgent required : Store labors.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh @bearingcitysc.com, Fax: 24509312

SALES / MARKETING Required sales and marketing executive for a 4-star hotel in muscat.candidate with excellent communication skills and having 3+ years experience need apply. driving license will be an advantage. email: hoteljobsmuscat@gmail.com Carpentry workshop located at Muscat looking for expert Marketing executive with Oman driving license & NOC. Send C.V to kwk585@gmail.com Business Executive for experience in Sales & Marketing with Omani D/L. Contact: 98492112 Send CV to mirrorgo1396@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Required Sales man, Tailor, Barber. Contact: 91114884

SKILLED LABOUR Required Experienced Auto Electrician and Automobile Mechanic for a reputed service station.

Contact : 91232638 hashim@ramainvestment.com

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE Wanted Office clerk having two years experience.

Contact: 92891888

SIT. WANTED ACCOUNTS Sri Lankan Chartered Accountant (female), Graduate in B.Com (SP) having 2 years visa. Working experience in Accounting & banking sectors, looking for a suitable position in Muscat. Contact: 96356974 / 97488363 Email: hansikamail@yahoo.com Male MBA Finance, 10 Year experience in Accounting, Finance, Business Development, Administration & Banking (Import & Export). Proficient in Quickbook & Microsoft Suite.

Contact 91462125.

Valid Oman Driving License.

Qualified CA, ACS, 10 +years Managerial experience, working in Bank, looking for suitable opening, Open to any GCC, MBL: +968-90788509, Email: kartirevy@gmail.com Indian Chartered Accountant with 17+ years experience in Accounts , Finance and Business management working in reputed group in Muscat looking for suitable change. Oman Driving License and NOC available Contact 95562708, pandukp2016@gmail.com Chief Accountant / Senior Accountant having 16 years experience can handle accounts up to finalization, MIS, CFLOW budgeting, ERP, costing and liaising with auditors, looking for suitable position.

NOC available. Contact: 94885686 Email: zahid1233368@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH Oman D/L & 9 yrs experience, 8 yrs Oman & 1 yr India in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, independently handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement, srjob12@gmail.com Indian female 22 years, B.Com with 1 year experience in India as Accountant / Clark, looking for suitable opening. Now on visiting visa. Contact: 97754830 Indian male 24 years MBA in finance 3 yr experience in Auditing, Accounts / Admin on visit visa.

Contact: 94003325 Email: shafiqujive32@gmail.com

Wanted Sales man for a printing press Whatsapp: 94756618

Male MBA Finance, 10 Year experience in Accounting, Finance, Business Development, Administration & Banking (Import & Export), Proficient in Quickbook & Microsoft Suite, Valid Oman Driving License. Contact # 91462125

Required well experienced dynamic candidate in Real Estate Evaluation Field beside Building Management Techniques.

Contact 91246444, Email: rescooman@gmail.com

Post Graduate M.Com (finance) having 20 years experience in Accounts in seeking suitable placement, NOC available.

Contact: 96275019 Email Id: vjkmr9583@gmail.com

Required Indian Marketing man or woman Omani license required.

Contact: 99378253

ADMIN

ACCOUNTS

Indian Keralite Accountant male 27 yrs, B.Com tally, 3 years experience in Oman, 1 year in India. presently working in Muscat Municipality, valid Omani D/L, release available.

Contact: 93826450 / 99656398 Email: renjith78078@gmail.com Indian Senior Accountant, B com, Having 8yrs Experience in Oman, Up to Finalization, Oman D/L, Release Available, Contact - 93484122 Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com

Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa. Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com

A young dynamic with NOC & 12 years experience of purchase sourcing logistics & IT Admin looking urgent placement with D/L Oman. Contact: 92204552, Email: ikroyal@yahoo.com

Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: anishkhan991867@gmail.

Com Mobile: +968 9565 9415

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

Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Indian female, 26 years,brought up in oman,M.COM(FINANCE) CA Foundation(CPT),CA INTER(DOING) presently on family visa seeking for immediate and suitable placement.

Contact -97174201/99663957 Email-anishasasi@gmail.com Certified Public Accountant (Filipino, Male, 27-yrs-old) with four years experience, seeking suitable placement in accounting/ audit, currently on visit.

Contact; 94959606, email: czesar.42@gmail.com 7 Years experience as Financial Analyst, MBA in finance. Responsibilities- research contributor, financial statement analysis, generating MIS & efficiency report, managing TAT, business & clients.

On visit visa in Muscat.

Contact 90191628 / 96175780

Accountant 8 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084

ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact 99284193

8 yrs exp. in Admin & Accounts (3 yrs in Oman), MBA, exp. in Tally ERP 9, Indian (F) seeks placement.

Contact 97243806

Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394

Indian male, B.Com, having 28 yrs experience in Accounting field (18 yrs in KSA) worked in construction company, excellent knowledge in Tally, NOC available.

Contact 92641601, sreekumarppillai@gmail.com

Accountant B.com Indian male 12 yrs exp seeks suitable job.NOC available . Contact : 91212471 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com

Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have vocational M.B.A diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288 Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817 MCA, Indian female, holding driving license, seeking suitable job in administration or computer.

Contact: 99466062

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. Indian female B. Arch 3 years experience in Oman seeking job as Architect have valid driving license.

Contact: 98726932 / 95121139, Email: sharonjohn177@gmail.com Architect Indian male 10 yrs exp design, coordination & site (resident arch) Autocad, Revit , valid Omani D/L. Contact: 95876247 Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN

MBA professional Indian, 28, 5 years experience in business having valid Omani D/L & visa, NOC available after 3 months.

Contact: 96718915 Email: azim.s7@gmail.com MBA B.Sc, Food Science and Quality control 7 years experience in Oman (driving license) available.

Contact: 94401183 / 97632020 Sri Lankan Senior Accountant having BBA, MBA,CA Foundation with 6 Years (2.5 Years in Oman)of experience up to finalization of accounts, Oman D/L, Release Available Contact 93598736 Indian (M) MBA (F) more than 6 years of experience in accounts, proficiency in various A/C software, SAP(F1/CO) seeking for suitable placement.

Contact: 95920740, Email: abdulhameed1527@gmail.com Indian, Kerala Male B.COM & B.PE, Currently on Visit Visa. Looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store Keeper, Sales etc. Ready to join as early as possible. Contact 96988923 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com Chief Accountant / Senior Accountant having 16 years experience can handle accounts up to finalization, MIS, C FLOW, Budgeting, ERP, Costing & liasing with auditors, looking for suitable position. NOC available.

Contact: 97205058 / 94885686 Omani female Accountant, 32 years, having 10 years exp in admin/accounts seeks suitable placement. Contact: 93295953 Indian female 28 yrs B.Com 4 yrs experience in MNC’s currently in Muscat seeking suitable placement in Finance / Admin.

Contact :94743790 Indian female 26 yrs, MBA finance 2 yrs exp with MNC. Email: rilooozmali@gmail.com.

Contact : 90551366.

28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact : 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com

Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.

Contact: 96976240 Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Indian (M), 31 yrs, M Com 9 yrs experience in Oman, looking for Manager or Executive position in Fin & Accounts, NOC Available.

Contact 968 96166178/ +919768537435: mohammednajeem@yahoo.com

ADMIN Indian Female, MBA HR & Admin with 3.5 years Oman Experience in HR/Admin, NOC available.

M:99791008 8 years experience in administration and guest relations department in Oman With valid omani driving licence. Seeking suitable jobs. Ph: 98145825 email: getcb@rediffmail.com Omani, male, 26 yrs experience looking for job in reputed Companies as PR, having experience at airport / Emigration, Ministries/ Manpower with Oman D/L. Contact 95445779 Indian female 33 years with 9.5 years experience (1 yr in Oman) as Executive Secretary, Administration, Sales Coordinator, and HR coordinator seeks suitable placement. Contact 97985059, Email: sarithajbinu@gmail.com Indian male, MSc & PG diploma in Computers with 20 years of experience as Office Administrator & IT Manager looking for suitable administration related position in schools or reputed companies, on visit. Contact: 90104334 Egyptian woman resident, considerable experience in the Administration and Secretarial Executive for company.

Contact : 97221126

Canadian-Graduate interior designer. Proficient in many 3D & 2D design software. Speaks English, Arabic, and conversational French.

Mobile: 97945233 Autocad d/man / Site Supervisor, experienced knows 2d/3d arch stru, interior civil ITI / Diploma PH : 99506977 Freelance / part time 3d design works, interior /exterior.

PH - 97103168 Tunisian girl looking for job in media field, has 8years experience in publishing Contact 97816917 Free lance / part time autocad works / make boq 2d /3d arch , structural, shop drawings interior drawings. Contact 97103168 mkgroupoman@gmail.com Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR. PH : 92279784 Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman. Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

CATERING Part time Cook seeks placement in evening. Contact: 95799643

DRIVER Looking for driver job exp 4 years knows English, Arabic, Hindi & Education B.A.Contact: 94928736 Indian driver looking for job.

Contact: 93729371 Light duty driver, with 5 yrs experience. Contact: 97941771 Looking for driver job, 9 yrs exp.

Contact: 96216699 Driver available with Car Hyundai Creata model 2016 pick & Drop or permanent. Contact: 95983125 Bangladeshi, light driver looking for job, 4 yrs exp. Contact: 92681457 Experienced driver available with 4WD willing to work fulltime / part-time, familiar with all tourist destinations in Oman.

Contact: 24814231 / 91941545 18 yrs exp driver seeks job.

Contact: 95541940 Looking for job exp having driving license. Contact: 97363138 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 95892363

T U E S DAY, N O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED An experienced Chartered Accountant

,ŽƐƉŝƚĂůŝƚLJ ƉƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů /ŶĚŝĂŶ͕ ĐƵƌƌĞŶƚůLJ ǁŽƌŬŝŶŐ ĂƐ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů DĂŶĂŐĞƌ ŝŶ Ă ůĞĂĚŝŶŐ ,ŽƚĞů ŝŶ DƵƐĐĂƚ͘

with over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

ϭϴн LJĞĂƌƐ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ DŝĚĚůĞ ĂƐƚ & /ŶĚŝĂ͘ tŝƚŚ ƌĞůĞĂƐĞ ͬ EK ͕ ƐĞĞŬŝŶŐ 'ĞŶĞƌĂů DĂŶĂŐĞƌ ͬ KƉĞƌĂƟ ŽŶƐ MĂŶĂŐĞƌƐ ũŽďƐ ŝŶ ,ŽƐƉŝƚĂůŝƚLJ ƐĞĐƚŽƌ͘

96491030

Contact - 968 99589495, Email : mct2016job@gmail.com

ǁŝƚŚ ŽǀĞƌ ϮϬ LJĞĂƌƐ ŝŶ KŵĂŶ͘ ĂŶ ŵĂŶĂŐĞ ZW ƐLJƐƚĞŵƐ͕ ,ĂƌĚǁĂƌĞ͕ EĞƚǁŽƌŬ͕ tŝͲ&ŝ ĂŶĚ Biometric Devices.

EK ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘

/ŶĚŝĂŶ ŵĂůĞ͕ ϯϯ LJƌƐ͕ D͘ Žŵ, ,ĂǀŝŶŐ ϳ LJƌƐ ĞdžƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞ ŝŶ ĐĐŽƵŶƟ ŶŐ ǁŝƚŚ ŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞ ŽĨ dĂůůLJ Θ ĨŽĐƵƐ ĂďŝůŝƚLJ ŽĨ Į ŶĂůŝnjĂƟ ŽŶ ŽĨ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ͕ Į ŶĂŶĐŝĂů ƌĞƉŽƌƚƐ ůŽŽŬŝŶŐ ĨŽƌ Ă ƐƵŝƚĂďůĞ ũŽď͕ ǁŝƚŚ ǀĂůŝĚ ͬ>͕ EK ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘

Contact # 96654216

Contact - 93864278

džƉĞƌŝĞŶĐĞĚ /d WƌŽĨĞƐƐŝŽŶĂů

ENGG. / TECH./MECH.

DRIVER Experienced Indian driver with valid Oman light & heavy license.

Contact: 94201010 Looking for any driving job.

Contact: 98549627 Looking for driver job experience 6 years in Oman & 7 years in K.S.A, Education H.S.C. Contact: 93940319 Looking for driver job, 3 yrs exp.

Contact: 94987031 5 years experience of light duty driving in Oman. Contact: 95746203 Looking for L.T.V driving job.

Contact: 94986972 Looking for driving job.

Contact: 97418036 Looking job for driving (with car).

Contact: 92005311 Private driver Bangladesh , age 25 light driver looking for job 1 yr exp ,knows English, Arabic & Hindi education. Contact : 94338977

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. HSE Engineer 10+ years experience having NOC & valid driving license Contact: 97717468 B.Sc. Mechanical Engineer with 6 years Gulf Experience in Oil & Gas, MEP and HVAC. Contact : 92730137 Indian Male 22, BE Civil Engineer with few site and internship experiences looking for a suitable position in your firm. Got knowledge in (Primavera, Autocad, Staad pro).

Currently In visit visa. 98327644 or shakib842@gmail.com Young Mechanical Engineering Graduate with six months internship experience looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97945161 / 71033760 Email: iancardoz11@gmail.com Electronics Engineer (BE) with 6 years experience in projects & maintenance of CCTV, access control, fire alarm & PA systems, on visit. Contact: 99097485 Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp with Autocad & D/L. Contact : 98484123, Email: vinodpmani@gmail.com

AutoCAD Civil Draughtsman with diploma in Civil Engineering, more than 8 yrs exp in Oman, valid D/L, NOC available. Contact: 96785348 / 93129804 Male, 25 yeas Diploma Instrumentation and Control Instrument Technician, 2 years experience, looking for suitable placement.

Contact: 96946408 Email: anfeeranfu4@gmail.com Indian male 26 years Mechanical Engineer with 2 yrs exp in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 91328079 Civil Engineer looking for a job, 3.5 years experience in Oman in building construction and infrastructure have Omani license.

Contact: 98826802 / 94903195 Email: eng.mn12@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine.

Available NOC release.

Contact 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com Indian male Civil Engineer 1.6 yrs exp, having Omani D/L, looking for suitable position. NOC available. Contact – 92157694 / mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Civil Eng (DAE) with 4 years exp with Chinese company also good operator of AutoCAD, 3D Max, office etc. Contact: 90979849 Electrical Engineer, 23, Indian female having 1.5 year exp at 400KV substation(KSEB). Certified in electrical cad, looking for suitable vacancies. Contact-96278955/ steffysunny999@gmail.com Pakistani, Land Surveyor, experience 5 years, 3 years in Pakistani & 2 years in Oman Muscat, building and roads and 3 years civil diploma, NOC available.

Contact: 94791214 / 98489700 Indian female B.Tech (CSE), 22 with 4 months experience as System Engineer in leading MNC on visit visa seeks suitable opportunity as family resides in Oman.

Contact: 71198596 Email: divyamarch94@gmail.com Civil Engineer has N.O.S for immediately join, 7 years total experience, 3 years oman experience.

Contact +968 97983610 Gulf experienced diploma civil engineer wanted job Contact +96890636128

Electrical Engineer 2 years exp in construction & distribution seeking job available on visit. Contact: 98361217 / 94110178 Email:shariqsiddiqui09@gmail.com

Diploma Civil Engr, Site Engineer, experienced, NOC available.

Contact : 93837973

HSE Engineer, NEBOSH IGC and IOSH certified, having 3 years experience looking for a suitable position. NOC available. Please contact +968 91476537.

Electrical Engineer: Indian male 30 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in India, holding valid Oman D/L. Contact: 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

Diploma in Civil Engineering looking for part time job, 6 years experience in Oman with driving license. Contact: 94013285 Indian male 23 yrs, B.Tech Mechanical Engineer 1 year experience in India having piping engineering and quality control certification looking for suitable job, currently on visit visa.

Contact: 90957740 Email: nishadphoenix@gmail.com Electronics & Communication Engineering Graduate male 23 yrs seeking for an entry technical job, on visit visa. Contact: 91329719 Syrian Civil Engineer with 2 years experience in construction with driving license. Contact: 94799791 Mechanical Engineer with 4yrs exp in PAEW, Maintenance, Design and having GCC D/License Contact:+968 95712436 & tejab17@gmail.com Iraqi Civil Engineer has Master degree in Project management with 14 years experience.

Contact : 79038461 BE Mechanical Engineer 1 year experience, diploma Mechanical Engineer QA/QC Mechanical inspector. Contact: 99865023 Email: sachu.s17@gmail.com

Mechanical Engineer, Indian, 5 yrs Experience, Automobile Diploma, HVAC, On Visit Visa, Contact – 93042025 Indian male B-Tech instrumentation with 3 yrs exp in maintenance field looking for suitable position.

Contact: 0091-9633142249 / 92115535, Email: vishnuprvr@gmail.com Sudanese Civil Engineer male 6 years experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 95376205 Mechanical Engineer 7 years exp in oil & gas (PDO) piping / pipeline.

Contact: 90106204 Email: shivcb600@gmail.com B.Sc (Hons) & B.Tech (Electronics & communication) 2.5 years experience as B.T.S & microwave link installation & commissioning engineer currently on family visit visa. Contact: 96756964

Diploma in Mechanical Engg, 10 years exp in steel fabrication site work with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 94696192 Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrs exp seeks suitable position in a reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711 B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 24 with almost 1 year experience as Production Shift Engineer, has achieved training on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP.Currently in Oman on a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact: 95065955 email: mjs.jazeb@gmail.com B. Tech Mechanical HVAC site Engineer 4 years experience, currently on visit. Contact 92837696 / mdabdulather@gmail.com An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com Filipino Male Fire Inspector/Safety Officer/Instructor Experience in Oil/Gas Petrochemicals With NFPA, IOSH, NEBOSH Seeking for suitable placements.

Contact: 91274080, 98900346 Indian male on visit visa, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering having one year experience in Automobile field, looking for suitable job.

Contact: 97145322 / 79065670 Email: rolwin26@yahoo.com Project Engineer (Electrical) 6 years experience in OHL distribution & primary substations, Arabic nationality driving license. NOC available. Contact : 99410588 / 99007049 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Quantity Surveyor civil in Oman, looking for a job around 21 years experience in civil works.

Contact: 92801589 B. Tech Civil 6 years experience in Oman driving license (valid Oman). Contact: 90108915 Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973 Mechanical/ Piping Engineer (B.Tech.) on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 94703350 mail: nadeembcoolboy@gmail.com Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization.

Contact 96570891 Indian male Mechanical Engineer having knowledge in fire Alarm and fire fighting system & AutoCAD with valid visa and NOC available. Contact: 968 90355201 Email: jkkannan6@gmail.com Indian female B.Com having 3 years experience in MS Office programs and Tally ERP 9, currently on family visit visa.

Contact: +968 91968254 Email: krishnapriyas206@gmail.com 18 years experienced Indian Civil Engg. residential, commercial, high rise industrial buildings) with transferable visa. Contact: 92855910 Email: jk2_anu@yahoo.co.in Indian male 8 years experience in electrical field with managerial, office, site supervision, fault debugging and exposure to electrical devices now in visiting visa.

Contact: 90181566 Email: jittoandrewsnesto@gmail.com

Indian male 21 years fresher Diploma Mechanical Engineer with Automation in ACC, PLC. Contact: 92162445

Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Contact : 97964862, Email:jossyabraham20@gmail.com

B.Tech Civil with 6 years experiences (2 years experience in Muscat) with driving license.

Contact: 93050252 / 98286891

Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. Contact: 98921022

EDUCATION/TRAINING Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job.

Contact: 97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable.

Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).

Looking for a Suitable position.

Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa.

Contact: 92157694. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) on visit visa looking for suitable job, has certificate of rewit MEP. Contact: 97923238 Email: vvikhil4@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male, 30yrs. Experienced in Steam turbines and Thermal Power house seek employment.

Contact - +91 8130553668 or mohamedshah7@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283 Graduate Civil Engineer 20 yrs GCC experience with Omani D/L, seeking job NOC available.

Contact: 98621645 Email: imtiazcv@gmail.com Indian male 24 ,B.E ( E.C.E ) graduate with 3 years of experience in the fields of BMS and Low current systems and has good knowledge about Electronic Security Systems, currently working in Oman, NOC Available. Contact: 94737033/ mohdmuhafez45@gmail.com Civil Engineer, young Indian having almost 2 years experience looking for a challenging position seeks suitable position in Oman/ GCC. Please contact 92718490, Email ID: uvais.pk82@gmail.com Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784 Electrical Engineer, 24 yrs, Indian Male, Fresher, Training Undertaken in Electrical Draughtsman, Fire Alarm, Fire Fighting and Industrial Automation. Contact: 94989767, Email: Junaiz987@gmail.com Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat. Contact - 91176187 Email: syam036@gmail.com Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961 Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job.

Ph number: 97964862, Email: jossyabraham20@gmail.com

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact 99739415 / 92091528 Indian female 24. Masters in Computer science engineering, seeking job in colleges, schools and institutes. Having in good skill in teaching and advanced technologies. Contact : 93356858 Email id : annielino11@gmail.com Indian Female-B.com, MBA, having 12 years Gulf experience in teaching seeking suitable position in school or college.

Contact-99822708

Indian Female, Phd in Chemistry having 3.5 yrs of Experience in India. Staying here on Family Visa & seeking for a suitable placement.

Contact – 99675828, Email anupam.tiwari67@gmail.com Maths Teacher 30 years experience IGCSE bilingual I.B, A& AS levels. Contact: 98016336

MISCELLANEOUS Filipino Graphic Designer / I.T. looking for a suitable job with 10 years experience. Very good in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Photography, Knowledge in CCTV & Access Controls.

Call 79042628.

Indian male, 29 yrs, Diploma in Polymer Technology & Fire Safety,7 yrs of experience in Polymer Production Supervisor (Plastic & Rubber Industry).Seeking suitable placement. Contact : 9818 8418 B.Com,IICL Certified Container Inspector(No.150850),Visit Visa, Six months experience, need placement. Phone 90880935,99023279, Email solexyesudas@gmail.com.

Mathematics Lecturer , Indian Female, M Sc Mathematics from a Prestigious University, B.Ed qualified, distinction holder with 6 yrs teaching experience in colleges.

Contact : 91360147.

Sudanese male bachelor geology and mining with 3 years experience in MUD logging and training in soil investigation.

Contact 92956848

IT

MEDICAL

IT Engineer male, 28 yrs, over 7 yrs experience with NOC, D/L available seeking placement in IT / Network / Telecom field. Contact: 93563297 Email: monuzv24@gmail.com

An Arabic speaking Assistant Pharmacist with MOH license & over 5 years of extensive experience in public and hospital pharmacies (Mobile: 94109327)

MSC IT, male, 2 yrs exp in .NET, PHP, HTML, CSS looking for suitable position. Contact : 98143759

33 yrs, male, Graduate (Physiotherapist, 8 yrs experience having Oman driving license looking for any kind of job. Ph : 91904191 / 91168482 Mail:davismchittetu84@yahoo.com

Oracle DBA/ EBS developer, 9+ years experience in IT, Banking, financial, supply chain domain, currently in Muscat, NOC available.

Contact: 96494216 Indian male B. Tech IT having 4years experience in Project Management, web designing& Development. Now in Oman on visit visa. Contact 93528971, abhishekv97@gmail.com Over 9 years experienced (7 years in Oman) IT support professional looking suitable opportunities (NOC available). Contact: 97689128 Email: dd_mcp@hotmail.com CFA level 1 cleared (pursuing level 2) MBA operations research, female, 5 yrs experience as Analyst, have a valid Oman driving license, looking for related openings.

Contact 95818892

Indian, 24, BSc, Nursing, 2.6 yrs experience in Apollo Emergency Chennai MOH license, with NOC. Contact: 92694514 Pharmacist, D Pharm, experienced, prometric finished, on family visa.

Contact : 99825501 Veterinary Doctor: Indian Female looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96906534 /99014885, Email: monishmajeed@gmail.com Indian female Nurse with more than 10 yrs experience, MOH license, dataflow looking for job in Muscat. Contact: 90704174 Filipino male Medical / Sales representative with 3 yrs experience is looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: 92610394

Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available.

Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com

Dr.Ayman Abduljalil Ali, E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706, Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com

IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759

MANAGER / SUPERVISOR

Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement.

Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact 98660672 Female, master in mass communication, B.Ed, experience in media channel and teaching PH : 99362024

LOGISTICS Experienced Indian Male seeking placement in “Stores & Logistics”.

Contact: 91927039

MISCELLANEOUS 9 year experienced industrial painter and sand blaster with Oman driving licence. NOC available.

Seeks suitable placement. Contact ZakeerHussain 96681934.

21, Indian female B.com graduate on family visa looking for immediate and suitable placement. Holds valid Omani Driver’s license.

Contact: 97208869 Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable placements. NOC available.

Contact: 92066 523 BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com

Kaleem Indian 31YROLD Commerce Graduate, 10yrs Experience in Oman Retail/Administration.

Contact 968 97048622 Email: kaleem.ghori04@gmail.com Gulf experienced Construction Supervisor and also experienced in Sales representative Contact 92409737 Indian male 26 Graduate looking for suitable vacancy having 3 years experience in Supervision & Management. Contact: 98847095 Male FMCG retail store and ware house Manager, 4 years experience in South Africa , experienced language trainer with MA English, B.Ed on visit visa . Contact: 93531726 Operations Manager 15 years experience in banking & currency exchange looking for a suitable position. Contact: S .S. Hussain 92874739 / 95884239 Email: syshhu14@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE India PG diploma in Business Administration, 24 year experiences (22 years in Oman) in diverse field handling office administration independently, Sales and Marketing, highly motivated, hard working skillful and willing to work in hallenging environments seeks suitable placement. Having valid Omani driving license. Contact 99120500 Indian male, Executive Secretary with 17 years experience seeking suitable position, release available. Contact: 94142594 Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Contact 95244761 Indian male 29 years, D.C.E / B.C.A experience 9 years Secretary / computer operator. Contact: 94955438

D6

T U E S D AY, N OV E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SECRETARIAL & OFFICE

SALES / MARKETING

Secretarial & Office: Indian(F), MBA in Finance, 2 years experience as Associate in Branch Operations (Record Keeping, Desk job)on family visa. Ph: 93186865 ; email: ddthoppil@gmail.com

Indian male working as Sr. Sales / Marketing Executive with thorough knowledge of Oman market in Trading as well as in procurement for 10 years seeks suitable position. Contact: 99045512

Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827

Sales professional (Graduate) additional qualification CCNA & MCSE having more 10 years experience in handling IT hardware, Networking & security products (project based) and experience in Education and training Industry in Oman, seeking employment in relevant IT companies. Contact: 99354209, Email: sandy6673@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Mktg Indian M.Sc Oman exp 2 years NOC available.

Contact: 90947859 Email: wilsonvarghese1@gmail.com MBA Qualified lady Purchase Executive with 8 years Oman experience seeks employment in a reputable organization.

NOC available. Contact: 95834242 Procurement, Warehouse & Logistics, Pakistani Male, Graduate, Over 10 years experience, Looking for Suitable Placement, Currently on Visit Visa Contact Oman : +968-91257663 E-Mail:waqasmehar1@gmail.com Purchase officer 5+ experience in Oman, CPP & Eppm certified.

Contact: 95605084 Email: abdulsmr44@gmail.com Indian male 30 MBA visit visa seeking job in sales marketing experience 5 years.

Contact : 98934277 / 96264642 Email: safi18058@gmail.com Multinational FMGC experienced, qualified Sri Lankan lady seeking employment in Muscat. Marketing, Brands, Sales, Communication. Oman exp & DL available.

98250829 MBA (UK), raised in Oman & with 2 yrs work experience holding valid Oman driving license, seeks job in sales / business development. Contact: 99513132 Graduate 38 years with 07 years experience in sales seeks jobs in sales valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 92453375 Indian male, 15 years Gulf experience in store in charge, sales and office assistant job in Auditing firm, looking for suitable placement. Contact: 92305353 Proactive sale pro male, 30 MBA (Marketing), 5 yrs exp seeks immediate placement in leading company, NOC available. Contact: 95656162 India PG diploma in Business Administration, 24 year experiences (22 years in Oman) in diverse field handling office independently administration, Sales and Marketing, highly motivated, hard working skillful and willing to work in challenging environments seeks suitable placement. Having valid Omani driving license.

Contact 99120500 Indian male, looking for sales & marketing job, Oman license holder. Contact: 95642740 Email: shaijichakkara@gmail.com 24 yrs, B.Tech Engineer seeking job in sales, marketing and business development having 2 yrs Indian experience, valid Omani driving license. Contact: 92839558 Indian male, 28 yrs, B.Tech (Marketing) 5 yrs experience in Oman, seeking job in Marketing or sales valid Oman D/L, Noc available.

Contact 98726183, Email: sudeshsk@outlook.com

Indian male MBA and Diploma in management from Australia.

On visit visa, looking for a suitable job in sales & marketing.

Contact – 71189884 Indian male, Graduate, 11 years experience in Oman seeks job in sales & marketing. Contact: 96367331 Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity.

NOC available. Conatct 96001877 NOC available Indian male, 30 yrs, MBA (marketing), BE, (ECE), 7 yrs exp in Oman in sales, projects & marketing seeks suitable placement, valid Oman D/L. Contact: 98518776 Resident in Oman 18 years, 10 years experience in setup marketing plans and strategies, sales, import & logistics, procurement, Omani government tenders, organizing projects & events, import fireworks for festivals, NOC available, have car. Contact 94123939.

Email: 002015r@gmail.com Indian Origin, Portuguese Nationality male MBA (Marketing) excellent English vast multi-tasking experience 29+ years in Admin HR/PR Logistics sales facility management with Oman driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94034168 Email: sheriagnes@gmail.com Indian female 29 years Post Graduate with computer Knowledge 2 years of Oman experience in coordinator & 5 years of experience in customer service, client relation officer with excellent communication skill seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95337665 Client Relations and Sales Professional with 8 years in the Business Process Outsourcing industry, looking for suitable opportunity in Muscat. Contact +96879050752 Indian male with 6 years experience in sales in oman. NOC available, looking for suitable placement. Contact 95364128 Indian male 28 yrs, Sales Engineer 3 years experience in Oman looking for suitable placement.

NOC available. Contact: 93938727 Indian Male, 26 M.Com with 4 yrs of Experience in Accounting & Administration in a Financial Company in India, seeks suitable job, Currently in India. +918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com Indian male 1 yr exp in sales automotive (TBL) looking for best opportunity , NOC available.

Contact# 97793879 Email: shyampkn@gmail.com

Oil & gas experienced Indian lady with 6 years in sales & marketing to PDO and having valid Omani driving license. Contact 96143430 / 99875919 Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipments.

Looking for good replacement.

Contact – 92015894 /95774854 Indian male age 24, B.Com. having 2 year experience and currently in visit visa. Looking for suitable placement in Sales, Marketing & finance. Contact: 90766307 Email: shhaazz.007@gmail.com Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820 Indian male 26 yrs, Graduate, 3 years experience with Air India seeking suitable opportunity with reputed firms. Contact: 98847095 BBA Bachelor of business administration exp in custom clearance procedure, also done international logistics management & Nimb National Institute business management (US) certification all documentation work related logistics. contact – 91949050 / akram.chaush001@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian male Sr. Sales / Marketing Executive, with thorough knowledge of Oman market in trading as well as in procurement for about 10 years seek suitable position.

Contact: 99045512 Indian male, Accountant looking for part time accounting job / data entry / office job. Contact: 93884951 Email: mehreenraiz@gmail.com Indian male, Engineer, Procurement Officer, Construction. 23 years experience in Automobile Supply Chain, Production Planning, IT - Delivery Management, Business Analysis and Operations set-up. Contact: 90215985.

Indian male, 10 years experience looking for part time Accounts/ Data Entry job contact: 93884951 Mechanical/Production Engineer, 3 years’ experience in production industry, B. Tech in Mech Engg, Proficiency in AutoCAD, Primavera certified. Contact arn9895@gmail. com, Mob 00919895233155 Indian Male, 26 years, 3 Years’ experience in Projects of Tanks, Boilers and Steel structures, Aware of int. Standards, B tech in Mech engg. ContactMob-00917741032368, rahulkunnath23@gmail.com 9 yrs exp Site Engineer in Civil & Shade Structure. 2d, 3d draughtsman (holding Omani driving license) seeking job.

Contact : 93790601 BE-Diploma Mechanical Engineering with 4 years experience in Oman as QA/QC in production, looking for valuable offer, with valid driving license. Contact-99335742 3 yrs exp. in accounts field in construction and contracting trading co Muscat Oman, looking for suitable placement. Release available and immediately ready to join.

Contact: +968 94574596.

Highly Qualified male wanted decent driving job.

Contact 91243132

MISCELLANEOUS Pak. (Male), M.B.A (Management) having 2 years experience Admin + Accountant. Good Knowledge of Tally and M.S office in Oman on visit visa looking for job. Contact: 97094221, mubinbrw@gmail.com Physiotherapist Indian with valid MOH license looking for suitable placement. Contact : 91556011 Petrochemicals specialist, MBA 18 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN OIL FIELDS COM/plastics /Automobile/ construction/Polymer/Packaging, e-procurement /COMMERCIAL/ PURCHASE / LOGISTICS / SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT . NOC available . Contact: vved76@gmail. com cell:97813849 Indian Male 29 years MBA, B. Com having 8 years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact :97914340.

Email: kvraj30@gmail.com

33 years Indian Male MSC, MBA-HR having 8.5 yrs experience (HR / Payroll / Admin) with Oman valid DL. Seeking suitable opening in Human Resource, Payroll & Admin/ backend jobs.

Contact:00968-99322978 Indian Male, age 23, B.E. in Mechanical engineering. Looking for suitable job. Oman D/L available.

Contact 93027183 B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian.

Currently on family visit OMAN. Looking for job in various mechanical fields of production, manufacturing, technical and designing.

Contact 92113987,email : mohammedthanzeel@gmail.com Omani Male 35 years have an experience more than 10 years as a PRO , Looking for a placement as PRO and Admin job, Driving license is available. Contact : 98098089

Indian Female Nurse with MOH License, looking for suitable placement in Muscat.

Contact: 95537685.

Senior sales executive. Experience in trading industries with thorough knowledge of Oman market and wide customer contacts.

Driving license and NOC available, seeks senior position. #98487311

Electrical supervisor having 10 years gulf experience in different construction project (Grid, primary s/s, etc) seeking suitable position.

GSM: 95710831

Pakistani experienced driver available, fluent in English Oman experience. Contact 92415746

Indian male 27 MBA Graduate with experience looking for job in finance, Logistics or new field in Oman. Contact: 90884252, Email: tamjeedruk@gmail.com Filipina, Female, 37 years, having 9 years experience in Office Administration with good communication skills and knowledge in Microsoft Office. Looking for Admin/ HR related jobs, currently on visit visa. Contact: 96209384, Email: rechie.labandria@gmail.com HSE Engineer, 3+years of experience, bachelor of Engineering (EEE), Nebosh,Iosh,Dhse,First Aid. Contact : +97474018995, email: midhunmich@gmail.com, skype: midhunmike Pakistani experienced male, masters in economics with valid Omani driving license, fluent in English, needs any suitable job like accounting, teaching, management, marketing or decent driving.

Contact:91243132 Indian Male Wood Designer & Wood works 7 Years good working experience searching for suitable job. +919698637279, GSM : +96891894487 Heavy Driver looking for job.

Contact 95651928 28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honors, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently. NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Document control, office admin, sales coordinator, Indian male, seeks suitable placement.

Contact 97906386 / 99073690 Indian Male Store Keeper and Sales Person have Four Years Good experience searching for suitable Job. E-mail Id ajinantony9@gmail. com, Contact: +918056761888, GSM +9695694990 Indian Male, Kerala,B.Com, having 4-years of experience in OMAN, with Valid Oman Driving License, looking for a suitable job in Sales, Accounts & Administration. email:- jobhuntmuscat@gmail.com

Indian Male 23 yrs B.E Mechanical with 02 years experience, Currently on visit seeking for suitable job. Contact : 79063064, Email id : sayedwasif@gmail.com Bangladeshi male, University M.Com, working as an Administrator cum Accountant in Oman since last year; Tally ERP9, searching better job. Phone:94864966, email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com Indian Male 22 years B.com graduate well versed English, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam, Holding a valid Oman driving License searching for a suitable placement. Contact : 96799287 B.Com, 2 yrs experience in Oman, Indian Male, 25 yrs with Driving License. Handling day today accounts activities upto finalization. Proficient in Tally. Looking for suitable placement. Ph. 91470665 Bangladeshi Male, University M.Com, Working as an Administrator cum Accountant in Oman since last year; Tally ERP9, searching better job. Phone: 94864966, email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com Indian male, MBA Finance & Marketing 28 yrs,6+ Exp, with oman D/L & NOC, Hospital, Pharma, Herbal, FMCG, F&B Marketing , construction A/c & sales , Contact 93379044 Indian female 10 years exp as cook in Oman . south Indian & Gujarati special .looking for job.

Contact 95795971 Bangladeshi Male, University M.Com, Working as an Administrator cum Accountant in Oman since last year; Tally ERP9, searching better job. Phone: 94864966, email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com

Indian female, M.Sc. B.Ed SCIENCE TEACHER, IELTS Qualified, having 2yrs experience seeking suitable placement.

Contact 90670400, 93694636 Indian male Accountant. Completed MBA with 1 year experience, good working knowledge in Tally & Excel searching for suitable job. Email : jovin8910@gmail. com, Contact : 919715874548 , 918015907437 Indian Female, B.Com with 9 years experience currently working in an hospital visa seeks suitable placement preferably in Accounts or Admin in and around Al Khuwair. Contact 93675079.

28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honors, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently.NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian male B-Com Graduate, 1.5 Year exp. in various office works, Valid Oman driving license, looking for any suitable post.

Contact: 95322175 / 91987965 Indian male network cabling technician (19-years gulf experience) seeking for suitable placement.

Contact: 0091-8089909265 (India), Email: mohithavp@gmail.com Indian male 29 years MBA, B.Com having 8 years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact : 97914340.

Email: kvraj30@gmail.com BE in Mechanical Engineering (fresher) and diploma in HVAC designing and drafting, looking for a job in the field of mechanical and HVAC. Email: abdulquddusruknuddin@gmail. com +968 90834846 Indian male 28, Heavy Driver having one & half year experience with release letter looking for a suitable placement.

Contact : 91242867 SHAIKH FAHAD, Indian, B.Com, gold jewellery & other sector work experience 3 years India and Oman as a Sales cum Cashier & management of the shops.

Contact 0096898718428 Indian male 33 yrs, MBA-HR with 10.8 yrs. exp. in Recruitment, Training, PMS, OD, Sites-HR and Omani nationals development, seeking a job, NOC available.

Contact saiprasad_18@yahoo.com 94179499 Pakistani male looking for part time cleaning work. #96710189 Indian male auto cad draughtsman (Civil) 8 years experience seeking for part time job.

Contact : 00968 99070584, E mail: remluvp@gmail.com

Indian Male, 24 years, B.com, MBA (Finance) with overall 3 years experience in accounts/finance field. On Visit Visa.

Contact:90115058/ safwanmeadows@gmail.com

PROCUREMENT OFFICER, Indian-Male 34yrs,M.Com with 14 yrs work Exp.(8 yrs in Oman) working in Construction Co LLC (for ROAD,CIVIL,ELECTRO-MECHANICAL & Others Projects ) and having valid LT D/L, NOC/Local release available & ready to join within a week-M:+919440810180 Email: nagauae@gmail.com

Indian Male 6 years’ experience in Sea and Air Logistics of import and export documentation and clearance with valid “G” card.

Looking for suitable openings in shipping and Logistics.

Contact:- 91330415 / 99864348

Indian/male (26)/ MBA/2 years experience in procurement, coordination and distribution management, with valid Oman license available for immediate joining. Contact: 92536194, email:suhailbs@gmail.com

T U E S DAY, N O V E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

SITUATION WANTED TOURS

SITUATION WANTED SIT. WANTED Post graduate in power systems (transmission &distribution) electrical engineer, experience in substation, MV, LV systems. power and oil & gas projects, having valid oman driving license, presently working in Muscat- NOC available.

Contact : 94669679 mail: prsabarish@gmail.com

Indian Female Nurse with MOH Licence. Looking for suitable placement in Muscat. #:95537685.

Safety officer : 3+years of experience in construction and industrial safety, B.E (Electrical and electronics engineering), nebosh, IOSH, DHSE, first aid. Contact : +97474018995, email:midhunmich@gmail.com

25 years Indian male with 3 years experience in Oman, seeking job in admin accounts. release available.

Contact +968 94574596, email id: obaidkhattab@gmail.com

28,male,ACCA finalist, BSc Honours, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently.NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian male 21 bachelor’s of commerce (B.Com) looking for salesmen or any new field job in oman thanks.Young honest and hardworking guy right now on family visit visa. Contact: 94562777 mail: hammadakrami61@gmail.com Indian Male, 37 Yrs Age, M.com looking for Job any reputed organization. Having more than 9 years in Muscat in the area of HR & Admin seeks suitable position. Contact : 95218424 / 9610 6604.” N O C shall be provided by Current Co. Indian Male,7 years of experience in sales and Distribution, holding Oman driving License, presently in Oman looking for a suitable placement. Contact 97409636 28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honours, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently.NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian Male , MBA Finance & Marketing 28 yrs,6+ Exp, with oman D/L & NOC, Hospital, Pharma Herbal, FMCG, F&B Marketing, construction A/c & sales , 93379044 Indian male 33 having 4 year experience in oman. Have valid driving license, looking for job in any field.Contact: 98477536, Email: Irbqzahmed83@gmail.com B.Tech Mechanical indian with 2 years experience in Pipelines and HVAC projects currently available in Oman with visa. Looking for suitable placements. # 79062695, E-mail:aneespk37@gmail.com Indian female, B.Com, with 9 years experience currently working on hospital visa seeks suitable placement preferably in Accounts or Admin in and around Al Khuwair.

Contact 93675079.

Lady Secretary 10 years’ experience in Oman leading companies worked with sales and management team, seek immediate employment.

Call: 93095425 or 24791145

28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honours, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently.NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian male executive secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seeks suitable placement. #99514286, Email: azimmohd@yahoo.co.in Male 9 years experience in IT, 1 year experience in Admin & 8 years experience in oracle. Degree master, 34 yrs seeking job.

Contact: +968 92553452 Email: shahzadhussain919@gmail.com Indian male B.Tech Mechanical engineer 4 year experience (3 years in India & 1 year in Oman) Driving license Oman, NOC Available looking for job in Oman #93845629, Email:syedakshar@gmail.com Indian Male 29 years MBA, B.Com having 8 years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement. #:97914340.

Email: kvraj30@gmail.com Indian Female one year freelance experience in FFFD Company in Oman in technical, Planning and admin works. Contact:94355787, Email-pdeepthi53@gmail.com Light Driver looking for job.

Contact: 99594946 Indian Male (44), MBA, 19 yrs experience in Oman. Present Industry: Natural stones for construction. Responsibilities: Production, Business development and overall management. Looking for an immediate opening. # 90992631 Indian female B.Com, MBA in Finance, 5 years experience in Oman as an Accountant, looking for a suitable placements.

Contact: 99044292 / 94431842 Indian Female, 22 BBA Graduate, Looking for suitable jobs in Accounting/ Admin/ Purchase/ Secretarial with good Communication skill and computer knowledge, Settled in Oman. Cont: 92511657, 97334325, 93626288, Email:Sumiap1421@gmail.com

Enjoy Camping in Wahiba desert & all over Oman & tour.

Contact: 92226866 We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

SIT. WANTED RENT A CAR

Indian female (27) MBA (IT), BCA, CCNA, 2 years experience in IT operations in Oman. Graduated from Oman with good analytical, programming skills, presented in international conference, seeking suitable IT/Admin positions.

Contact: 93672143. Email: fathima.shoukath@gmail.com Indian male 27Yrs, BTS : MTM (Mater of Tourism Management) 3 years’ experience in Tour Operation; & Sales Marketing; Ticket reservation & Front office looking for suitable placement, on visiting visa Ph:98837395 , bijothomas427@gmail.com Indian female having B.Tech degree in biotech. Having computer skill & having experience in marketing administration seeking suitable job in any field. # 91287047 13 years experience Indian Accountant Tally, Busy Accounting.

NOC/Release available. #96133146.

Email:kkcjob786@gmail.com Assistance Accountant 6 yrs experience include in Oman B.Com, Tally & excel advance level.

Contact: 98002428 Indian female M.Tech (Biotech) with computer knowledge having experience in marketing, administration & accounting with resident visa seeking suitable job.

Contact: 91287047 Email: valliammai1000@gmail.com

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver.

Contact 99839898

DRIVING

Male 22 years B.Tech Mechanical Engineering University (India) looking for suitable job. Possession of driving license, fresh Graduate no work experience. # 97792809 Sales & Marketing Manager with around 10 years experience in India & Gulf looking for a suitable placement, have a valid Omani driving license, NOC available.

Contact: 98125226 B.Tech Electrical Engineer 9 years experience transmission substations and distribution Majan CEP , MEDC electrician license , driving license. #99545470 Email: liju982@gmail.com

Specialist for road test drum and slope. Contact 94022250

SIT. WANTED B.E Mechanical Indian/(quality control and quality assurance certification) 2 years experience in field of production and projects.

Contact 0096879063064 Email:sayedwasif@gmail.com

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T U E S D AY, N OV E M B E R 8 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi earn in two months

tion guaranteed

Tel: 95244310

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. Contact: 98294551

MANPOWER

WĞƐƚ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů Θ BƵŝůĚŝŶŐ ĐůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ăůů ŬŝŶĚƐ ŽĨ ƉĞƐƚ ĐŽŶƚƌŽů ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͘ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ɵ ůĞƐ ͬ MĂƌďůĞ ƉŽůŝƐŚŝŶŐ ŵŽŶƚŚůLJͬ YĞĂƌůLJ ĐŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘ Contact: 98814733 /98814740 ů ,ƵƐŶ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ >͘>͘

SERVICES tĞ WƌŽǀŝĚĞ ůĞĂŶĞƌƐ͕ Kĸ ĐĞ ďŽLJƐ͕ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ͕ General cleaning etc. ů DƵĚĂŬŚŝƌ EĂƟ ŽŶĂů Ɛƚ͘ >> Contact : 94277020

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807

WE SERVE OMAN

We undertake building construction and maintenance, we have 40 Indian skilled & labors.

Contact: 91797549 / 99539433 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting,Plumbing,Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. Contact 24810137, 99450130

SITUATION WANTFOR LADIES GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Affordable rates all types of curtain blind. Contact 99539521/ 95615642

Marble polishing & crystallization, building cleaning floor, floor polishing, carpet, sofa shampooing, pest control, anti termite, shifting maintenance. Contact: 99504275

Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

We undertake new construction & maintenance & gypsum works.

Contact 92711506, ammarayyub@gmail.com Carpet & Sofa Shampooing General Cleaning & Polishing Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact: 24707833

Painting & plumbing work.

Contact: 95963682 Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 99344723 Marble Crystallization & Grinding, Ocean Center L.L.C. # 92705130

Romantic Beauty Parlour Special packages, Facial, Eyebrow, Haircut, Waxing or Henna, 15 RO. Contact- 99410160/99467033

TRANSPORTATION Transportation available, pick & drop. Ruwi, Al Khuwair, Azaiba & Al Hail. Contact - 94297820 Transportation. Contact: 99664703 House shifting and transport.

Contact: 96737158 Transportation. Contact: 94087276 Transportation. Contact 94510847 Transportation. Contact 92015894 Pick & drop available 24 Hrs. Contact: 98522914