Times of Oman - March 11, 2015

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WEDNESDAY, March 11, 2015 /20 Jumada Al Ula 1436 AH timesofoman.com

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SAUDI ARABIA

His Majesty receives thanks

RELIVING A DARING JOURNEY A one-hour documentary, ‘Into the Light’, on the journey of free-climbing athletes Stefan Glowacz and Chris Sharma during their climb of the Majlis Al Jinn, one of the world’s largest caves, was premiered on Tuesday.

Glowacz returned for a private screening of the documentary which was filmed in Oman with the support of the Ministry of Tourism exactly one year ago. This photograph was taken during the journey. — Courtesy Red Bull

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MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of thanks from Prince Maqrin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in reply to His Majesty the Sultan’s congratulatory cable on the occasion of him being appointed as a Crown Prince and Deputy Prime Minister in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

In his cable, Prince Maqrin expressed his thanks for His Majesty the Sultan’s generous feelings and sincere prayers, and wishing His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said good health, happiness and the Omani people further progress and prosperity. -ONA

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‘Get real over pay’, Omani recruits advised Employers who support Omanisation

2015 EDITION

say their job is

Times of Oman Inter School Quiz Contest finals on April 24

being made harder by unrealistic wage demands

ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

Times News Service MUSCAT: It’s time to see sharp young minds in action. The 2015 edition of the popular Times of Oman Inter School Quiz Contest (TOOISQC) is all set to roll.

While the finale is slated for Friday, April 24 at the City Amphitheatre, the mega prelims will be held on April 22. The prelims will start from April 15. “The venues for the prelims and mega prelims will be announced soon,” said the organisers. Appreciating Times of Oman’s initiative to run the inter school contest, quizmaster Giri ‘Pickbrain’ Balasubramanium said, “A journalist asked me recently if you were told to do only one quiz in a year which one would it be and I said Times of Oman school quiz”.

He added, “She asked me why and I said, Muscat quizzes are like a carnival and it’s more passion and love for quizzing than winning.” >A3

elham@timesofoman.com

Rains set to hit Oman today

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TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

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Will never forget Oman: Solar Impulse 2 pilot

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“I will remember Oman forever” tweeted Pilot Bertrand Piccard prior to take-off from Muscat as the solar plane started the second leg of the epic round-the-world bid. >A4

REGION

MARKET

Iraqi troops in Al Alam

Crude production

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Iraqi troops and militias drove IS militants out of Al Alam on Tuesday. >A7

Oman produced 26.8 million barrels of crude in February. >B1

ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company

MUSCAT: Inexperienced Omani job seekers are demanding overtly high salaries while shunning training designed to help them advance, say employers who have called on recruits to adopt a new mindset.

To comply with the Omanisation policy, private companies have been seeking to employ more locals but they say that some Omanis do not seem to believe in working their way through the ranks, and demand unreasonably high salaries even when they are new to the field or are not qualified enough.

Justifiable pressure Yusuf Nalwala, managing director of Al Ansari Group of Companies, said there is justifiable pressure from the Ministry of Manpower on companies to em-

ploy more Omanis, but many of the unemployed citizens do not possess the required skills and some are not open to the idea of receiving training.

Wishful thinking “Their mental expectation is more attuned to getting as much as possible in terms of salary and other benefits, to keep up with the cost of living. They have not fully understood the economic dynamics that commercial balance is achieved with the supply and demand phenomenon and not one-sided wishful thinking,” he told the Times of Oman.

“Private company employers are used to getting expatriates with high mental attitude to learn and oblige the employers by their loyalty and performance at a very competitive cost,” he said, adding, “the same mental tuning to take extra efforts to understand the job expectations is missing in many Omanis.”

Resistance to training “In fact, there is resistance to training that meets the needs of the organisation. In-house training is generally looked down upon and not given due respect.

They are focussed about working according to fixed timings and do job-specific tasks with very little commitment or consideration that the employer is running a commercial organisation and needs to get some extra returns for everything he invests in,” he said. >A6

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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W E AT H E R C O N D I T I O N S

Rains expected to hit Oman Times News Service MUSCAT: Different parts of Oman are likely to witness rain and thunderstorm starting from Wednesday until Thursday, according to the Directorate General of Meteorology and Air Navigation (DGMAN), which monitors weather conditions in Oman.

“Musandam witnessed drizzle on Tuesday night and the coastal areas of Oman too are likely to have rains,” said a senior official of DGMAN on Tuesday.

He added that most parts of the Sultanate will witness hazy weather with chances of convective cloud development with rains over the Al Hajar MounTIMES QUIZ CONTEST

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set A1 Stage for quiz The quiz is open to two-member teams from all international and private schools “Time for the facts to be brushed up on, on the newspaper always keep your eyes on, Greycaps’ research team has already switched on, for the annual quiz from Times of Oman!”

The quiz is open to twomember teams from all international and private schools and any number of teams from a school can take part. Each team will have two students from the same school.

Times of Oman inter-school quiz contest is conducted in two categories - junior (grade 8 and below) and senior (grade 9 to 13).

tains and Musandam governorate on these two days.

“Then there are chances of low level clouds development or fog patches on Wednesday morning along the coastal areas of the Arabian Sea,” it said.

Cloudy skies In the next 48 hours, it said, there would be partly cloudy skies over the governorates of Musandam, Buraimi, Al Dhahira, Northern and southern Al Batinah and Muscat apart from Al Dakhiliah and northern and southern Al Sharqiya with chances of rain and occasional thundershowers associated with winds and hail on Wednesday and Thursday.

“The sea will be rough over the Musandam governorate and the Oman coast,” it added.

However, till the filing of this report it had not rained as predicted, but the skies over Musandam were cloudy.

“We also heard reports that it will start to rain in the evening, but even though the skies are cloudy, there has been no rain,” confirmed a resident of Khasab, on Tuesday evening.

Meanwhile, the Public Authority of Civil Aviation has urged people to take all precautions while crossing wadis. It has also asked fishermen and seafarers to check weather forecasts before venturing into the sea.

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With their daring and determination, we can all fly into a new sustainable future Ban Ki-moon, Secretary general of United Nations

GLOBAL FLIGHT

Will remember Oman forever, tweets Solar Impulse 2 pilot MUSCAT: Solar Impulse 2 took off from Muscat International Airport on Tuesday, bound for India, on the second leg of its epic bid to become the first plane to fly around the world powered solely by the sun.

“I will remember Oman forever” tweeted Pilot Bertrand Piccard prior to take-off from Muscat as the solar plane started the second leg of the epic round-the-world bid.

The aircraft took off from Muscat at 6.35 a.m. for what is expected to be a 16-hour, 1,465-kilometre journey over the Arabian Sea to Ahmedabad in India. Pilot Bertrand Piccard was at the controls, taking over from fellow Swiss aviator Andre Borschberg.

More than 10 hours after leaving Muscat, Piccard was over the Arabian Sea, according to a website monitoring his progress.

Borschberg spoke of an “emotional” trip, telling reporters in Muscat that he cruised at 6,000

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metres (almost 20,000 feet) because the trip was “short”.

Ban Ki-moon, secretary general of the United Nations, hailed the venture and congratulated the pilots. “With their daring and determination, we can all fly into a new sustainable future,” said his spokesman.

Si2’s takeoff, which had originally been scheduled for Saturday but was delayed by high winds, capped 13 years of research and testing by the two Swiss pilots.

The pair is hoping the project will boost technology and awareness surrounding environmentally sustainable transport.

The wingspan of the single seater Si2 is slightly bigger than that of a jumbo jet, but its weight

is around that of a family car. From Muscat, it will make 12 stops on an epic journey spread over five months, with a total flight time of around 25 days.

Later legs will take it to Myanmar, China, Hawaii and New York.

Landings are also earmarked for the mid-western United States and either southern Europe or North Africa, depending on the weather conditions.

The longest single leg will see a lone pilot fly non-stop for five days and nights across the Pacific Ocean between Nanjing, China and Hawaii, a distance of 8,500 kilometres (5,270 miles).

Borschberg and Piccard will alternate flying the plane, which can fly on autopilot during rest breaks.

Both pilots have undergone intensive training for the trip, including in yoga and self-hypnosis, allowing them to sleep for periods as short as 20 minutes but still awake feeling refreshed.– AFP

AVIATION HISTORY: The aircraft took off from Muscat at 6.35 a.m. for what is expected to be a 16-hour, 1,465-kilometre journey over the Arabian Sea to Ahmedabad in India. –AFP and SOLAR IMPULSE WEBSITE

Rock climber relives cave adventure Climbing legend Stefan Glowacz

Entering this cave was my dream... When I entered the cave for the first time, it was amazing. If this cave does not impress you, nothing will

returned for a private screening of the ‘Into the Light’ documentary which was filmed in Oman

TARIQ AL HAREMI MUSCAT: A one-hour documentary highlighting the journey and challenges of two international free-climbing athletes, Stefan Glowacz and Chris Sharma, as they climbed from the bottom back to earth surface (over 300 meters up mostly horizontal roof ) and back ‘Into the Light’ was premiered on Tuesday.

Climbing legend Stefan Glowacz returned for a private screening of the ‘Into the Light’ documentary which was filmed in Oman with the support of the Ministry of Tourism exactly one year ago.

Red Bull held a premiere of the documentary at the Cave restaurant complex in Darsait Hills, as the architecture of the building is designed to resemble a cave and coincides with the overall theme of

Stefan Glowacz

ROCKY RISKS: Majlis Al Jinn proved to be one of the most challenging rock climbing expeditions that Glowacz and Sharma accomplished due to the steep climb and the curvature it forms towards the top.

Free-climbing athlete

– Supplied photos

the documentary. The documentary took people on a journey of the two climbers from the moment they arrived in the Sultanate to the time they rappelled down the cave to their gruelling two-week climb out in February 2014.

Majlis Al Jinn, also known as the ‘Cave of Spirits’, is one of the world’s largest caves. It is 340 metres long and 228 metres wide with the ceiling at a height of 120 metres.

“Entering this cave was my dream and you have to always pursue your dream and make it hap-

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pen,” said Glowacz, who was the only climber present at the screening. “When I entered the cave for the first time, it was amazing. If this cave does not impress you, nothing will,” he added.

Majlis Al Jinn proved to be one of the most challenging rock climbing expeditions that Glowacz and Sharma accomplished due to

the steep climb and the curvature it forms towards the top, forcing the climbers to go upside down during their ascent. “After 35 years of rock climbing experience, this is the first time I have seen walls like these,” said Stefan.

The pair had to plan their route to the top on the first day while using the second day to climb and install safety harnesses along their path. While preparing for the climb, Stefan accidentally fell from his position on the wall, but was saved from certain death by the safety rope he was attached to.

He suffered burns on his fingers from the rope and the injury was a challenge when climbing, but the pair prevailed.

“You have to be in the best shape, physically and mentally, to achieve a climb like this,” said Glowacz.

When asked if age could be a challenge, Glowacz said, “Age is a barrier, and as you get older it is harder to climb. But it is a wonderful feeling to see a younger climber (Chris)… it gives me inspiration.”

The climbers were accompanied by a crew of 23, including medical personnel, cameramen

and producers to film on location.

Most of the crew members were in the cave documenting the climb by using highly sophisticated drones installed with cameras and a balloon with light on a 600 metre rope to light up the chamber. The total length of the rope used during the two weeks was 3,000 metres.

In addition to their expedition, the climbers and crew members took the responsibility to clean the cave by filling 40 garbage bags.

The documentary is scheduled to be aired at VOX Cinema at the end of this month.

ARAB COUNCIL MEETING

Interior minister heads to Algeria MUSCAT: Minister of Interior Sayyid Hamoud bin Faisal Al Busaidi, left on Tuesday for the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria for the Arab Interior Ministers Council, due to begin on Wednesday.

The two-day meeting will discuss a number of security issues, including the strategy to combat terrorism, illicit traffic in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, and the Arab secu-

rity service project. They will also focus on plans to project in the Arab media security issues and to raise awareness about prevention of crime.

During the meeting, Sayyid Al Busaidi will be accompanied by a delegation comprising Maj.Gen Hamad bin Sulaiman Al Hatmi, Assistant Inspector General of Police and Customs for Operations, Nassir bin Saif Al Hosani, Sultanate’s ambassador to the

People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and a number of officials at the Ministry of Interior and Royal Oman Police (ROP).

The delegation was seen off

by Sheikh Said bin Mohammed Al Braiki, Advisor at the Ministry of Interior, Mahanad Saleh, newly appointed ambassador of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria to the Sultanate and a number of officials at the Ministry of Interior and ROP.–ONA

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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YOUSUF BIN ALAWI HOLDS DISCUSSIONS WITH MAURITANIAN, SOMALI FOREIGN MINISTERS AT CAIRO SUMMIT Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs, met separately in Cairo with Fatma Vall Mint Soueina, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Mauritania and Abdisalam Omar Hadlie, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, on the sidelines of the 143rd session of Arab Foreign Ministers Council. Deliberations of the 143rd session of the Arab Foreign Ministers’ Council concluded at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo on Tuesday night.—ONA

R E G I O NA L I M PAC T

Oman holds tourism

road show in Saudi Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman’s Ministry of Tourism held its first road show in 2015 in Saudi Arabia as part of its intensified campaign to promote the Sultanate’s main tourist attractions in the Kingdom.

In collaboration with Oman Air, the Ministry’s road show covered three major Saudi cities, namely the capital Al Riyadh, Al Khobar in the eastern province, and Jeddah.

Major local travel agents and corporate clients were given an opportunity to meet with the Ministry’s industry partners from Oman to discuss ways to bolster efforts that will position the Sultanate as a main tourist destination in the GCC region.

Salem Adi Al Mamari, Director General of Tourism Promotion, Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, said: “As in the past, the road show will give our tourism campaign a significant boost allowing us to strategically reach our tarBRIEFS

‘Islam Message from Oman’ exhibition opens SKOPJE: ‘Islam Message from Oman’ exhibition opened in the Macedonian capital Skopje, under the auspices of Dr Zoran Ilievski, political advisor to the President of the Republic of Macedonia.

The exhibition will run until March 19. The opening ceremony was held in the Macedonian National Museum. The exhibition aims to spread the values of understanding, coexistence, dialogue among peoples of the world.

Sheikh Benyamin Idris, head of the Islamic Civilization Centre stressed on reminding humanity of the importance of coexistence, understanding and tolerance.

RAO holds traffic ‘Open Day’ MUSCAT: Royal Army of Oman (RAO) on Tuesday organised an ‘Open Day’ on the occasion of the GCC Traffic Week, themed ‘Your Decision Determines Your Fate’.

The open day included a number of various programmes, apart from a lecture by an officer from the Royal Oman Police (ROP), who reviewed statistics of traffic accidents.

Bid to smuggle drugs foiled MUSCAT: Officers at Muscat International Airport arrested an Omani with 207 Alprazolam tablets concealed in his personal belongings while returning home from an Asian country, an official at the Directorate General of Customs said. A report has been lodged and the accused is in the custody of the Anti-Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Department. The ROP has called upon citizens and expatriates to notify any suspected attempt of smuggling.-ONA

The road show will give Oman tourism drive a big boost.

get market with ease. This year’s road shows aimed at highlighting our country’s beauty and the reasons it has been attracting global attention over the past few years.

“To help us in our goal of reinforcing Oman’s status in the growing regional tourism market, we partnered again with Oman Air whose travel packages have been helping to bring in more visitors.”

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They think it’s a tough game and women will fall down and hurt themselves. But if you use your technique you will be the best player. You can play without any problems Anisa Omar Al Shaddadi, UAE women’s handball team manager

Handball pioneer sees Rise in number tourists from women’s sports growth of Oman to Ehiopia P O P U L A R D E S T I NAT I O N

sem Chenoufi, was the goalkeeper for Tunisia’s national team, who were African champions, and she play for a league team in Tunisia for 15 years. She says in many Tunisian women are active in sports, and have been for years, but women’s leagues and participation in competitive and national-level sports by women in the GCC has taken longer.

“We feel that there is a revolution, like we say, in all the sports.

Despite all the challenges we see women in all sports now in the GCC. It’s good. I encourage them,” she says.

Team captain Fatma Al Mamari, who works as a police officer by day, says it’s good for women to participate in sports.

She says playing handball helps her stay fit for her job.

“Always sports are for men. But it’s healthy for us and women can enjoy any sports, too,” Al Mamari remarks.

It has taken some time for people to accept women playing sports, but now she and the other female handball players, some of whom are married with children, have a lot of supporters, says Anisa Omar Al Shaddadi

SARAH MACDONALD

sarah@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Anisa Omar Al Shaddadi, dressed in a track suit, running shoes and black hijab, cheers as members of the UAE handball team practice at Sultan Qaboos Stadium, preparing for their first match in the 4th GCC Women’s Games.

A pioneer of women’s handball in the UAE, Al Shaddadi, the team manager and a member of the UAE Handball Federation, is excited because for the first time handball is being included in the Games, which include Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE, since it’s a sign that women’s participation in sports is on the rise in the GCC. Encouraging attitude “We are talking about culture.

They have more knowledge, and the parents understand that life is different so they encourage their daughters to be on teams,” says Al Shaddadi, who was encouraged by her father to play sports when she was a child.

Al Shaddadi, 39, played handball in school from the time she was 8 to 18 years old, but upon graduation she was disappointed to find that there were no commu-

TRAILBLAZER: Anisa Omar Al Shaddadi, a pioneer of women’s handball in the UAE, the Emirati team manager and a member of the UAE Handball Federation, is excited because for the first time handball is being included in the Games. – Sarah MacDonald/Times of Oman

nity handball clubs for women, and not even a national team. She played volleyball and basketball for a women’s club in Sharjah, but kept pushing for handball to be added to the list of community sports for women.

“I tried to talk to all the managers in my country and different VIP people, very important people, to make them focus on handball and make a team. They all said no, it was all for men. I fought and fought,” she recalls.

Finally, the UAE Handball Federation decided it should have a woman on its membership. Al Shadidi quickly volunteered and became the first woman in the federation. It was a position from which she could help women’s handball develop.

In 2006 Al Shaddadi helped found the first women’s handball team, Al Ahli Club in Dubai, which was joined a few years later by four other teams. By 2013 the UAE formed its first national team, bringing together the best

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players from the five existing clubs. She says it took a while because some people though handball was too aggressive for women to play.

Matter of technique “They think it’s a tough game and women will fall down and hurt themselves. But if you use your technique you will be the best player. You can play without any problems,” she explains.

She adds that the teams are also careful to ensure the players can dress conservatively. They play wearing pants, long-sleeved shirts and closely-wrapped headscarves, which she says helps put their families, and the society in general, at ease.

One of the team’s coaches, Wis-

Passionate Passionate about handball, she grew up playing it in school and was happy when there were finally teams for women in the UAE. She says she is proud to represent her country here in Oman and hopes to become the best in the world and “become famous.”

Her teammate Sheikha Al Dhanhani, who works for the UAE military, also grew up playing handball in school and played for Al Jazira club. She says her family is very supportive of her athletic career, and she encourages other women to get involved in sports, too.

“Sports are good for people who have lots of energy. It’s better to be active and put it to good use, not just keep it inside, and not just go to coffee shops,” Al Dhanhani says.

Al Shaddadi says it has taken some time for people to accept women playing sports, especially publicly, but now she and the other female handball players, some of whom are married with children, have a lot of supporters, even men. Events like the GCC Women’s Games help them gain more fans, too, she adds.

“They are proud. They are proud we represent our country, with our flag on our shirts, on our hearts,” she concludes.

Times News Service MUSCAT: Ethiopia is becoming a popular destination for Omanis and the expatriate community in Oman, according to a senior official of Ethiopian Airlines in Muscat.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, Sami Muctar, country manager - Oman, Ethiopian Airlines, said that the number of visitors to Ethiopia is now growing by 10 per cent each year.

“Previously, some tour operators in Oman would not touch Ethiopia with a barge pole,” he said, and added, “With the introduction of direct flights from Muscat, things are changing.”

With more and more people visiting the country, Ethiopian Airlines at Muscat are planning to boost the market in Oman.

“We have launched an attractive package to Ethiopia and are processing Ethiopian visas at our local office in Ruwi,” he said.

While Omanis require a visa to travel to Ethiopia, Indians get a visa on arrival in this African country. Last year around 10,000 people visited Ethiopia from Oman and this year, and Muctar believes that the numbers will rise by at least 10 per cent in 2015.

“Ethiopia’s landscapes are no less dramatic, and range from the Simien Mountains National Park and Bale Mountains National Park, which offer tremendous trekking opportunities and innumerable interactions with dozens of animals and birds, to the Danakil Depression in Northern Ethiopia, an enchanting yet unforgiving and hostile environment offering extreme adventure. The remote lowlands in the sultry southwest are also home to untold adventures and house some of Africa’s most fascinating tribes,” he said.

Besides these, Ethiopia has a proud history which can be traced to the beginning of mankind.

“It is also a place where a live volcano is witnessed in Dallol, the lowest and the hottest place on earth,” he added.

Muctar also said that besides Ethiopia, they are looking at tourists who are eyeing Kenya and Tanzania which are famous for their safaris and wildlife.

“This is simply because we have

The number of visitors to Ethiopia is now growing by 10 per cent each year Sami Muctar Ethiopian Airlines official

excellent connectivity to almost all major cities in Africa. It is also a proud member of Star Alliance, and is currently the largest and most popular airline in Africa covering over 80 destinations across the globe. It flies to Washington, Toronto, Sao Paulo, London, Beijing, Muscat and almost all major African cities and 17 cities inside Ethiopia,” he added.

The East African country has been included as “the most emerging destination in 2015” by famous travel agency, Kuoni Travels.

The company was founded in 1906 by entrepreneur Alfred Kuoni in Zurich, Switzerland, and in 2013, the Kuoni Group was named the “World’s leading luxury tour operator” at the annual World Travel Awards.

Kuoni’s trips feature Lalibela, the low-key capital Addis Ababa, the towns of Gondar and Bahir Dar, the Bale Mountains National Park and the Simien Mountains National Park.

O M A N I S AT I O N

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A1 Need to raise work culture awareness Nalwala believes that the demand of the new recruits for higher salaries is one reason why organisations fail to achieve the expected Omanisation target.

Personal benefits They have perhaps realised that the companies have to recruit locals in line with the Omanisation policy and try to maximise their own personal benefits, he said.

“It has been suggested that we raise awareness about the work culture, self-esteem, dignity of Yusuf Nalwala labour and other psychological aspects right from the early stages of school and on the home front.

This would mentally prepare them to accept the reality of the real world and effectively engage in building their own career and this great nation,” said Nalwala.

Minimum salary Mohammed Hassan Al Ansi, vicechairman of the Committee of Logistics and Transportation Affairs at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), say that there should be a minimum salary for fresh graduates and job seekers should ask for better payment terms only after gaining the necessary experience.

Unfortunately, some fresh graduates demand high salaries even though they are not experienced enough, he said, adding that inexperienced job seekers should welcome training opportunities.

Incentives Al Ansi also said that many Omanis prefer to work in the public sector, but if private companies have the right long-term plans to promote employees and increase their salaries based on their efforts, more locals will be encouraged to join this sector.

In addition, the OCCI official said the government has certain

Mohammed Hassan Al Ansi

B. Venkat

Suraj S

training programmes for Omanis but training will be more effective if it is done after the employee joins the company.

He argued that employers should understand the motivation of the applicants before hiring them and this will show them whether they are open to training or not.

“They may have had a bad experience or their personality does not suit the job requirement,” he added. Syed also said that it is vital for an organisation to promote its employees ‘on merit’, adding that good HR and appraisal procedures should be in place to ensure that the workers are paid according to their efforts and qualifications.

B. Venkat, managing director of Reddots Training and Services, a company that provides training in a number of areas related to the

Understanding reasons Navaid Syed, head of learning and development at the Al Rumais Training Institute, W J Towell’s world-class training body, says that the reasons why some people do not want to be trained should be understood properly.

“Maybe, they have not had a good experience with training courses.

There maybe service providers who may promise a lot and not deliver,” said Syed who has the experience of working as HR director.

Navaid Syed

electricity and oil and gas sectors, says that some locals are not open to the idea of undergoing training when offered the opportunity.

They only look for a good salary, Venkat said, and added that a proper management system in each company regarding the training of staff can empower Omanis and contribute to the Omanisation process.

“That is what is lacking,” said the managing director of Reddots Training and Services, which offers a range of courses in a number of areas including health, safety and environmental (HSE) rules and standards, incident investigation and cable jointer training as well as IOSH and NEBOSH courses.

Suraj S., project engineer at Technical Development Trad. & Cont. Co, an electrical engineering contracting company, also said that Omani job seekers usually prefer government jobs because of better pay and benefits in the public sector.

He said that the company has achieved 30 per cent Omanisation and is looking for more qualified Omanis, adding, “More training is required especially in the health and safety section in addition to the technical section.”

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015 Israeli border guards detain a Palestinian girl protester during clashes following a demonstration by students from Birzeit University near occupied Ramallah against the incarceration in Israeli jails of Palestinian university students, on Tuesday, in the occupied West Bank village of Betunia, outside the Israeli-run Ofer prison. – AFP

SINAI PENINSULA

Bombings kill civilian, Egypt army officer CAIRO: Two bombings in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, one of them a suicide attack on a police base, killed a civilian and an army officer on Tuesday as an insurgency showed no let-up, officials said.

The rugged peninsula is the base of the IS group’s Egyptian affiliate, formerly known as Ansar Beit Al Maqdis, which has claimed the majority of attacks on the security forces in the region. The suicide bomber rammed a vehicle packed with explosives into the police base in North Sinai’s provincial capital of El Arish, killing the civilian, security and health officials said. Two civilians and 30 police were also wounded in the attack, which came just minutes after a nighttime curfew was lifted at 6:00am (0400 GMT). “The bomber drove a water tanker filled with explosives into the rear gate of the base,” a security official said.

“As the vehicle approached, police fired on it, detonating the explosives inside.”

Interior ministry spokesman Hani Abdel Latif said the death toll could have been much higher but for the swift reaction of the guards on the gate. “The security forces dealt with the vehicle near the checkpoint of the base which saved a lot of lives,” Abdel Latif said. — AFP

REGION

Iraqi troops, militias retake strategic town of Al Alam SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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Capture of the town

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paves way for Tikrit attack; residents celebrate army and militia’s entry to town as Kurds press on with offensive further north

AL ALAM (IRAQ): Iraqi troops and militias drove IS group militants out of the town of Al Alam on Tuesday, fighters and a local official said, clearing the way for an offensive to retake the nearby city of Tikrit from the ultra-radical group.

A Reuters photographer saw dozens of families, who had earlier fled Al Alam to escape IS group control, returning to the town, celebrating and slaughtering sheep for the victorious fighters.

“I announce officially that the town is under the total control of

UNDER CONTROL: Militia fighters cover their ears as a rocket is launched during a clash with IS militants in the town of Al Alam, on Monday. – Reuters

security forces, the Hashid Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation) units and local tribal fighters,” said local mayor Laith Al Jubouri.

“We rejoice in this victory and we want Al Alam to be the launchpad for the liberation of Tikrit and Mosul,” he told Reuters by telephone.

Tikrit, the home city of former president Saddam Hussein, is the

focus of an offensive by the army and militias known as Hashid Shaabi, backed by local tribal forces. An attack on Mosul is expected later this year.

The army and militias now control the two towns to the north and south of Tikrit along the Tigris river valley and appear ready to move on the city itself.

Security officials said the as-

sault on Tikrit could start as early as Wednesday, although the 10-day campaign has so far been marked by gradual and steady advances rather than rapid attacks.

There have been fears that the security forces and militias would seek revenge on local residents for killings carried out under the IS control of the area. In the nearby village of Albu Ajil, local officials

said houses had been set on fire by the militia, but there was no sign of revenge attacks in Al Alam.

IS militants seized Tikrit and much of northern Iraq last June before declaring a cross-border caliphate in regions of Syria and Iraq under their control.

If Iraq’s government is able to retake Tikrit it would be the first city clawed back from IS militant group and would give Baghdad momentum in its campaign to recapture Mosul, the largest city held by the ultra-radical militants.

IS group has sent reinforcements to Tikrit from other parts of its self-proclaimed caliphate further north, where it came under attack on Monday from Kurdish forces around the oil-rich-city of Kirkuk.

A Kurdish commander said his forces would press on with their offensive and had captured another village on Tuesday. They had stopped in an area called Kwas, but would resume in coming days, Major General Omar Hassan said. — Reuters

R A L LY I N G C RY

D I S P U T E O V E R PAY

Dubai construction workers protest DUBAI: Hundreds of foreign construction workers staged a rare public protest on Tuesday outside the opulent Dubai Mall, one of the main tourist attractions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in a pay dispute with their company.

Dubai authorities deployed riot police to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard in downtown Dubai, where the world’s tallest building is located, blocking some

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roads while negotiators tried to settle a dispute about overtime pay. The workers, from south Asia, said the company had stopped overtime work and pay at a time when basic salaries were too low.

The Dubai government media office, in a message over Twitter, said Dubai police helped to resolve the dispute. “Within an hour, Dubai Police resolved issues of Fountain Views workers gathered

in Boulevard demanding bonus,” it said. Details of the agreement between the protesters and the company were not announced, but the company’s general manager Hassan Auji later told Reuters that the workers’ demands were not legitimate.

“Their main complaint was on incentives - which, by law, we are not obliged to pay,” Auji said by telephone. — Reuters

‘Israeli-Palestinian peace deal needed to defeat IS militants’ STRASBOURG (FRANCE): King Abdullah II of Jordan warned on Tuesday that an Israeli-Palestinian peace deal was essential for combating IS extremists, saying the conflict served as a rallying cry for militants.

Abdullah told the European Parliament that the battle against the IS group in Iraq and Syria was “first and foremost” a fight for nations to carry out.

Jordan has stepped up its role in the US-led coalition against IS after the group burned to death a captured Jordanian military pilot in a grisly video released last month. But Abdullah said the root problem was the world’s failure to

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“defend Palestinian rights”.

“This failure sends a dangerous message,” he said.

“And it has given the extremists a powerful rallying cry. They exploit the injustices and the lingering conflict, to build legitimacy and recruit foreign fighters across Europe and the world.”

He added: “How can we fight the ideological battle, if we do not chart the way forward towards

Palestinian-Israeli peace?”

Around 20,000 foreign fighters are believed to have left their homelands to join extremist groups in the past few years -- including an estimated 4,000 since 2012 from western Europe. Abdullah however said that countries had to lead the fight against IS and other extremists. “This is a fight that has to be carried out by nations first and foremost,” he said.

Introducing the king to European lawmakers, Parliament President Martin Schulz offered his sympathies over the murder of the pilot. “It’s hard to imagine people could commit such gruesome acts,” he said. — AFP

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

INDIA

They should not put pressure on members to speak out against us or force Delhi MLAs to sign papers against us. Hope this statement ends all slander, planting of allegations.

Hope no more coercion of party functionaries and Delhi MLAs on this issue Yogendra Yadav, AAP leader

Lok Sabha passes land bill; opposition protests ity in the Lok Sabha, government reached out to its allies, making last minute calls to their leaders to persuade them not to break ranks.

Opposition had moved 52 amendments, which were either negated or were not pressed for by the members.

In an attempt to placate the opposition and some unhappy allies, government brought nine official amendments and added two clauses to the controversial legislation

NEW DELHI: The contentious Land bill on Tuesday passed the Lok Sabha test after Indian government carried out nine amendments to it and persuaded most of its allies to support, setting the stage for its consideration in Rajya Sabha where the numbers are loaded against the government.

Congress, Trinamool Congress, Samajwadi Party, RJD and BJD walked out of the House while NDA ally Shiv Sena abstained as

Government has decided to bring 11 official amendments such as limiting the industrial corridor to one kilometre on both the sides of the highways and railway lines, compulsory employment to one member of the affected family of farm labourers, hearing and redressal of grievances at the district level, acquisition of bare minimum of land the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Amendment) Bill 2015 was passed by voice vote.

Another NDA ally Swabhimani Paksha moved an amendment

which was negated. In an attempt to placate the opposition and some unhappy allies, government brought nine official amendments and added two clauses to the controversial legislation.

Notwithstanding its major-

Real test The bill is now set for the real test in Rajya Sabha where the NDA is in a minority and opposition is united in opposing it or sending it to a Parliamentary Committee.

Even while moving the bill for consideration, Rural Development Minister Birender Singh said the government has already incorporated several suggestions, many of them offered by the opposition, and was willing to accept any more suggestions of the opposition if those were in the interest of farmers.

The bill is now set to face a major hurdle in Rajya Sabha where NDA is in a minority and some allies are also not on board.

Anti-corruption Indian crusader Anna Hazare will set off on a month-long ‘padyatra’ (footmarch) to Delhi to mobilise public opinion against the land bill on March 25 from Sevagram, which houses an ashram of Mahatma Gandhi, here. - PTI

I N D I A N O C E A N I S L A N D NAT I O N S

Modi to bolster ties on three-nation tour NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he hoped to strengthen India’s “important relationship” with Seychelles, Mauritius and Sri Lanka as he left on Tuesday evening for the three Indian Ocean island nations.

This will be the first bilateral visit by an Indian prime minister since 1981 to Seychelles, located 3,800km away closer to Africa, and the first since 1981 to Sri Lanka, separated from India by a narrow strip of sea.

“I am keenly looking forward to my tour... March 10-14,” Modi said in his departure statement.

“We have a strong, multifaceted and important relationship with each (country) and they all occupy a very important place in our foreign policy.

“My visit to the three Indian Ocean Island countries reflects our foreign policy priorities in India’s immediate and extended neighbourhood.

“India attaches paramount importance to strengthening relations with this region, which is vital for India’s security and progress,” he said.

In the Seychelles, his first stop, Modi will get a unique Gujaratistyle welcome from the Gujarati NRIs in that country.

Modi said: “India’s relationship with Seychelles has been built on

UPBEAT: Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves as he departs for his three-nation tour, in New Delhi on Tuesday. - PTI

the foundation of mutual trust and shared values. “I am keenly looking forward to my meeting with President James Michel, a great friend of India.”

On March 11-12, Modi will be in Mauritius, where he will be the chief guest at the Independence Day celebrations on March 12.

On the last leg, Modi will be in Sri Lanka on March 13 and 14 when he will hold talks with President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, whose government took office in January.

“My visit to Sri Lanka will be the first standalone prime ministerial visit to Sri Lanka since 1987,” the year India and Sri Lanka signed a pact to end Tamil separatism. - IANS

RIFT WIDENS

Yadav, Bhushan wanted AAP to lose in Delhi: Kejriwal loyalists NEW DELHI: The simmering rift in AAP on Tuesday took an ugly turn with four top leaders launching a blistering attack on Yogendra Yadav and fatherson-duo of Shanti and Prashant Bhushan, accusing them of working for its defeat in the Delhi Assembly polls and trying to malign image of Arvind Kejriwal.

In the first official statement by the top brass since the infighting came out in the open, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, Transport Minister Gopal Rai, party General Secretary Pankaj Gupta and Sanjay Singh — all known to be Kejriwal loyalists — defended the decision to remove Prashant and Yadav from the powerful political affairs committee (PAC).

Yadav hit back at the party, alleging that Delhi MLAs were being “coerced” to sign papers against them while Prashant said the country would know the “whole truth” very soon.

A number of AAP leaders said

REFUTING ALLEGATIONS: AAP leader Yogendra Yadav arrives to attend the party’s national executive in New Delhi last week. - PTI

that circumstances “forced” the leadership to come out with the statement over the issue.

The four Kejriwal loyalists accused Shanti, Prashant and Yadav of acting against party’s interest, saying they wanted defeat for AAP in the Delhi polls.

“The trio, especially Prashant called up volunteers from other states and told them not to campaign for the party. I will not be campaigning for the party this time. You guys also don’t cam-

paign. It is necessary for the party to lose. It is only then Arvind (Kejriwal) will get some sense.

“In front of Anjali Damania (AAP leader from Maharashtra), he told the same to workers of Mysore. Those funding the party were discouraged from doing so,” said a joint statement by the four AAP leaders.

“When volunteers were sweating out to ensure party’s victory, Shanti, Prashant Bhushan and Yogendra Yadav were working for party’s defeat,” it said.

Strongly refuting the allegations, Yadav accused the party leadership of putting pressure on the members to speak out against him as well as Prashant and Shanti Bhushan.

“They should not put pressure on members to speak out against us or force Delhi MLAs to sign papers against us. Hope this statement ends all slander, planting of allegations. Hope no more coercion of party functionaries and Delhi MLAs on this issue,” Yadav said. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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‘National security not PDP ties top priority’ lated in this statement,” Singh said on the sidelines of the 46th Raising Day of central security force CISF in Ghaziabad.

Putting the government on the mat, the Opposition wondered whether BJP has a ‘secret pact’ with PDP on the issue and demanded

SPELLING OUT: Home Minister Rajnath Singh speaks in Rajya Sabha in New Delhi on Monday. - PTI

re-arrest of separatist leader Masarat Alam

GHAZIABAD/NEW DELHI: Pushed on the backfoot over the release of jailed Kashmiri separatist leader Masarat Alam, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday asserted that his government’s top priority is national security and not the continuance of government in the state where BJP is an alliance partner with PDP. His remarks came on a day Opposition parties in parliament upped the ante against the govern-

ment over reports that the Jammu and Kashmir government was planning to release 800 more separatists and sought to know if the state’s Governor has mentioned this in his report to the Centre.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made it clear in Parliament on Monday that release of Alam was not acceptable and that the government won’t tolerate any compromise with the nation’s integrity.

Putting the government on the mat, Opposition wondered whether BJP has a “secret pact” with PDP on the issue and demanded rearrest of Alam against whom there are 27 criminal cases, including

CBI COURT

D.P. Yadav sentenced to life imprisonment for ex-MLA’s murder DEHRADUN: Mafia donturned-politician D.P. Yadav was on Tuesday sentenced to life imprisonment by a CBI court for his involvement in the murder of former Dadri legislator Mahendra Singh Bhati.

Yadav surrendered to the court Monday but excused himself from the court proceedings on Tuesday, citing ill health.

Yadav’s three aides Pal Singh, Pranit Bhatti and Karan, who also surrendered on February 28, have been convicted as well and sentenced for life in the same case. The court also imposed fines varying from Rs.45,000 to Rs170,000 on the convicts.

Three other convicts in the case were present in the courtroom when the sentence was pronounced.

Prior to his surrender, Yadav had tried to evade the court hearing on medical ground.

But after announcing him guilty, the court asked the CBI, which has probed the murder, to arrest and bring him before the court. The Central Bureau of Investigations conducted three raids at his Ghaziabad residence but could not trace him.

Yadav surrendered in the trial court on Monday.

Bhati was peppered with bullets in broad daylight in what was believed to be a part of the gang wars in the western Uttar Pradesh. After initial probe into the murder, the case was recommended for a CBI probe.

The premiere investigative

VERDICT: Former Uttar Pradesh minister DP Yadav after he was sentenced to life by a court in Dehradun on Tuesday in the 1992 Mahendra Singh Bhati case. - PTI

agency took up the case on September 10, 1993.

Yadav began his formative political innings under former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav but later parted ways with him.

He was also in the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and also was a member of the BJP for a day, before being fired after a media furore on his entry in the party that claimed to be “different”.

Yadav has been a member of the state assembly four times from Sahaswan and Bulandshahr in western UP and also served as an MP, both in the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha.

His son Vikas Yadav was convicted of the murder of Nitish Katara, a bureaucrat’s son, and is currently in jail. - IANS

VIRUS

Flu toll rises to 1,482 NEW DELHI: The flu toll in India has swelled to 1,482 while the number of affected persons crossed the 26,000-mark on Tuesday even as a minister in the Rajasthan government tested positive for the disease.

The Union Health Ministry said that, as on March 9, the total number of deaths due to the H1N1 virus stands at 1,482 with as many as 26,455 people having been affected by the disease across the various states.

Rajasthan Food and Civil Supplies Minister Hem Singh Bhadana tested positive for swine flu and is undergoing treatment.

His sample was sent from Alwar on Sunday and health officials confirmed that he has been infected with the virus.

Health Ministry data showed that the toll due to the disease was highest in Gujarat where 347 people have died while the num-

ber of affected persons was 5,715.

The disease has claimed 343 lives in Rajasthan, whose total of 6,030 patients is the highest so far in the country.

The toll stands at 221 while a total of 2,703 persons have come down with the disease in Maharashtra, where Bombay High Court on Tuesday directed the state government to file an affidavit within four weeks on the measures it has taken to tackle the cases of flu.

Madhya Pradesh has seen 201 deaths and registered 1,608 cases of the disease.

Meanwhile, Health Ministry officials said that the figure on Tuesday also includes the deaths which occurred in Delhi this year of people belonging to various other states. These figures have been updated in the cumulative total in the ministry’s data, officials said. - PTI

murder, sedition and conspiracy.

He was detained eight times.

The Home Minister said, “My government will not compromise with national security at any cost.

For us any government, whether in alliance or not, that is not our priority. Our priority is country and its security.

“You should understand this intention of ours. I will only make only one statement as of now, as I had said in Parliament on Monday.

For us, government is not the priority but for us country is priority and it is topmost,” he said.

“You should understand this fact and I think everything is encapsu-

Abide court directives In Jammu, PDP said the Jammu and Kashmir government will abide by the court directives on the release of political prisoners.

“Whatever the Supreme Court and courts tell us, we are going to abide by that (on release of political prisoners in future),’ senior PDP leader and Minister for Sports, Imran Raza Ansari told reporters on the sidelines of a sports event.

Meanwhile, a letter written by Jammu and Kashmir Home department to District Magistrate of Jammu has stoked a fresh controversy over the release of Alam as it now claims that order for his release was sent in February this year when Governor N. N. Vohra was in charge of affairs of the state.

This letter puts both — Mufti Mohammed Sayeed governmentas well as the Governor — in a piquant situation as the new government was trying to claim credit for something done during Vohra’s tenure while the Governor is understood to be not aware of the move being undertaken by the state Home department. - PTI

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INDIA ECONOMIC GROWTH

Indo-US trade could reach $500b if reforms continue NEW DELHI: Bullish about growth potential in India, a top US lawmaker on Tuesday said bilateral trade between the two countries could jump from current $100 billion to $500 billion if the Modi government continues with reform initiatives and removes regulatory hurdles.

Chairman of the powerful US House Foreign Relations Committee Ed Royce called the government’s budget proposals “big jump” to boost economic growth and attract foreign investment into India.

“We are absolutely bullish on the opportunity for economic growth in India today. We looked at the changes that are occurring and we looked at the achievements and we believe that the bilateral trade could well be$500 billion from current $100 billion,” he told reporters.

Hailing efforts Hailing government’s efforts to encourage infrastructure spending and decision to cut corporate tax by 5 per cent over the next four years, he said though budget proposals were not “quantum leap”, they were big jump forward in revitalising the economy.

“It was not a quantum leap but it was a big jump and I think the commitment for infrastructure

spending is important. I think the 25 per cent (corporate) tax rate down from 30 will bring more investment. I generally agree with Prime Minister’s thesis of minimal government, maximum governance.

Improving efficiency “In other words, getting more efficiencies in government. I think that’s an approach reflected in the budget and it’s a step by step process. It is a big step in the right direction,” Royce said.

Emphasising that there was scope for improving efficiency in governance, he said it takes 80 permissions to set up a hotel in India against six in Singapore.

“I know from the companies across US how focus they are on the opportunities in India,” he said.

Royce said the bilateral trade volume was one fourth of what it was on Tuesday and taking it to $500 billion would not be difficult.

Asked about India’s position on the Ukraine issue, he said it will not have any impact on Indo-US ties.

Indian-American Congressman Ami Bera, who is part of the delegation, said there has been a real sense of energy in the ties and it was time to move the relationship forward. - PTI

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

PAKISTAN

We’ve seen time and time again that there is immeasurable injustice in Pakistan’s criminal justice system, with a rampant culture of police torture, inadequate counsel and unfair trials Sarah Belal, Justice Project Pakistan official

Death penalty moratorium lifted The interior ministry has directed provincial governments to proceed with hangings for prisoners who have exhausted all avenues of appeal and clemency, a senior official said

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has lifted its moratorium on the death penalty in all capital cases, officials said Tuesday, after restarting executions for terrorism offences in the wake of a Taliban school massacre.

The interior ministry has directed provincial governments to proceed with hangings for prisoners who have exhausted all avenues of appeal and clemency, a senior official told AFP. Another government official confirmed the news.

Pakistan has hanged 24 convicts since resuming executions in December after Taliban militants gunned down more than 150 people, most of them children, at a school in the restive northwest.

Terrorism offences The partial lifting of the moratorium only applied to those convicted of terrorism offences, but officials said it has now been extended.

“The government has lifted the moratorium on the death penality,” the senior interior ministry official told AFP. “The interior ministry has directed the provincial home departments to expedite the executions of all condemned prisoners whose

DRASTIC MEASURE: Pakistani policemen keep vigil outside the central jail in Karachi where authorities are said to have executed a prisoner. Pakistan has lifted its moratorium on the death penalty in all capital cases, officials said on Tuesday, after restarting executions for terrorism offences in the wake of a Taliban school massacre. — AFP

Mumtaz Qadri

mercy petitions have been rejected by the president.”

The official said there are around 1,000 condemned prisoners around the country whose appeals and clemency petitions have failed.

The home secretary of Balochistan, Akbar Hussain Durrani, said the government had issued instructions to resume executions.

Tuesday’s announcement could also pave the way for the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, a former police bodyguard who shot dead Punjab governor Salman Taseer in Islamabad in 2011 as on Monday a court in Islamabad upheld the death sentence passed on Qadri for the attack

“We have received a letter from federal government asking to expedite all death penalty cases for executions whose mercy petitions have been rejected,” Durrani told AFP in provincial capital Quetta.

Until December’s resumption, there had been no civilian hangings in Pakistan since 2008.

Only one person was executed in that time -- a soldier convicted by

a court martial and hanged in November 2012.

Rights campaign group Amnesty International estimates that Pakistan has more than 8,000 prisoners on death row, most of whom have exhausted the appeals process.

Supporters of the death penalty in Pakistan argue that it is the only effective way to deal with the

scourge of militancy. The courts system is notoriously slow, with cases frequently dragging on for years, and there is a heavy reliance on witness testimony and very little protection for judges and prosecutors.

Witnesses intimidated This means terror cases are hard to prosecute, as extremists are able to intimidate witnesses and lawyers into dropping charges.

Human rights campaigners and the European Union have been highly critical of the resumption of executions.

Sarah Belal of the Justice Project Pakistan (JPP) rights group condemned the move to extend executions as “irresponsible”, saying it put the lives of vulnerable citizens at risk.

“We’ve seen time and time again that there is immeasurable injustice in Pakistan’s criminal justice

system, with a rampant culture of police torture, inadequate counsel and unfair trials,” she said in a statement.

Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) chairperson Zohra Yusuf while speaking to The Express Tribune said the quality of investigation and prosecution was poor in the country.

“A person is tortured to confess and on that confession, he may be handed down the death penalty.

There is no way to bring him back to life in case he had an unfair trial or was forced to confess.”

According to the HRCP, there are currently around 8,300 prisoners on the death row in the country.

Citing the case of Shafqat Hussain, Yusuf said in the absence of a good lawyer, no one raised the issue of juvenility when Shafqat was awarded the death penalty by the ATC in 2004 at the age of 14.

“With the lifting of the moratorium, I foresee more hangings in future which is sad,” she added.

In the latest case, an anti-terrorism court in Karachi on Monday issued death warrants for two men convicted of murder during a house robbery.

The two men, Mohammad Afzal and Mohammad Faisal, are due to be sent to the gallows on March 17.

Tuesday’s announcement could also pave the way for the execution of Mumtaz Qadri, a former police bodyguard who shot dead Punjab governor Salman Taseer in Islamabad in 2011.

On Monday a court in Islamabad upheld the death sentence passed on Qadri for the attack, which he said he carried out to punish Taseer for questioning the country’s strict blasphemy laws.

But the judges also cancelled Qadri’s conviction terrorism charges, which before Tuesday’s announcement made it unlikely he would be hanged. — Agencies

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RED MOSQUE CASE

Bailable arrest warrant issued against Musharraf ISLAMABAD: A court on Tuesday issued a bailable arrest warrant against former Pakistani military ruler Pervez Musharraf for continuously staying away from the hearing in the murder case of Red Mosque cleric Ghazi Abdul Rasheed.

Additional Sessions Judge Wajid Ali Khan rejected pleas by the former president’s counsel to grant him exemption from appearing in court.

The court issued a bailable arrest warrant and ordered 71-yearold Musharraf to appear in person during the next hearing on April 2.

Police had registered a case against Musharraf in 2013 over the alleged murder of Rasheed who was killed in an army operation to flush out militants holed up in Islamabad’s Red Mosque in 2007. The ex-army chief has refused to appear in court on health and security grounds. It is not clear whether he will appear at the next hearing.

Musharraf faces a string of

Pervez Musharraf

Police had registered a case against Pervez Musharraf in 2013 over the murder of Rasheed who was killed in an army operation to flush out militants holed up in Islamabad’s Red Mosque in 2007

court cases dating back to his 1999-2008 rule, including treason charges over his imposition of emergency rule in 2007 and involvement in the killing of Baloch nationalist leader Nawab Akbar Bugti in 2006 and the assassination of former prime minister Benazir Bhutto in 2007.

He has also been charged in the judges’ detention case.

Musharraf came to power in a bloodless coup in 1999, deposing then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif. Facing impeachment following elections in 2008, Musharraf resigned as president and went into self-exile in Dubai.

He returned to Pakistan after five years of self-exile to contest the general elections in 2013 which he lost. — PTI

WA R N I N G T O A F G H A N P R E S I D E N T

Karzai lambasts Ghani over ‘concessions to Islamabad’ KABUL: Horrified over his successor Ashraf Ghani’s “unthinkable concessions” to Pakistan, former president Hamid Karzai on Tuesday warned that Afghanistan was in danger of sliding under “Pakistan’s thumb”.

“We want a friendly relationship but not to be under Pakistan’s thumb,” the 57-year-old former president said.

Cadets for training Karzai, who was president for 10 years until Ghani took over in September last, also slammed his successor’s decision last month to send six army cadets to Pakistan for officer training.

“We should not send troops

for training in any neighbouring country when they are sending us suicide bombers in return,” he said in reference to the fact that the leadership of the Taliban and much of the movement’s organisational and logistical muscle is allowed to operate freely inside Pakistan.

Afghanistan’s historic struggles against British imperialism and Soviet invasion will go in vain if the country succumbs to pressure from neighbouring Pakistan, Karzai said in an interview with the British daily Guardian.

Karzai’s willingness to send Afghan officers to India while spurning Pakistan has enraged Pakistan’s generals, who believe

the future leaders of the Afghan army were being indoctrinated by their “mortal enemies”.

Ghani has overturned the country’s traditionally hostile relationship with Pakistan in the hope of enlisting its help in brokering a peace deal with the Taliban.

Karzai’s associates have also spoken about their anger at Ghani’s Pakistan policy.

Rangin Dadfar Spanta, a former foreign minister and national security adviser, also slammed Pakistan saying, the new government’s policy amounts to the humiliating “appeasement” of a hostile power who would never change its ways. — PTI

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I N V E S T I G AT I V E R E P O R T

‘CIA sought to hack Apple iPhones’ FRANKFURT: CIA researchers have worked for nearly a decade to break the security protecting Apple phones and tablets, investigative news site The Intercept reported on Tuesday, citing documents obtained from NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden.

The report cites top-secret US documents that suggest US government researchers had created a version of XCode, Apple’s software application development tool, to create surveillance backdoors into programs distributed on Apple’s App Store.

It said the latest documents, which covered a period from 2006 to 2013, stop short of proving whether US intel researchers had succeeded in breaking Apple’s encryption coding, which secures user data and communications.

Efforts to break into Apple products by government security researchers started as early as 2006, a year before Apple introduced its first iPhone and continued through the launch of the iPad in 2010 and beyond, The Intercept said. Breaching Apple security was part of a top-secret programme by the US government, aided by British intelligence researchers, to hack “secure communications products, both foreign and domestic” including Google Android phones, it said. — Reuters

WORLD

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Investigators

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removed the bodies of Olympic swimmer Camille Muffat, yachtswoman Florence Arthaud and boxer Alexis Vastine from the charred wreckage of the two helicopters

BUENOS AIRES/PARIS: France mourned on Tuesday the deaths of three sports stars who were among 10 people killed when two helicopters collided in a remote region of Argentina during the filming of a reality TV show.

Investigators removed the bodies of Olympic swimmer Camille Muffat, yachtswoman Florence Arthaud and boxer Alexis Vastine from the charred wreckage of the

REALITY TV SHOW TRAGEDY: Men work amid the wreckage of the two helicopters which collided mid-air near Villa Castelli, in the Argentine province of La Rioja, on Tuesday. — AFP

two aircraft, but said it was still unclear what caused the accident on Monday afternoon in the rugged western province of La Rioja.

There were no survivors.

Amateur footage taken from the ground showed the two heli-

$1 BILLION AID PLEDGE

Qatar rebuilds Gaza homes GAZA: A Qatari official visiting a Gaza neighbourhood heavily bombed in last summer’s war with Israel said on Tuesday the Gulf Arab state had begun a project to rebuild 1,000 homes as part of a $1 billion aid pledge.

Mohammad Al Amadi, head of the Qatari Committee to Rebuild Gaza, said that earlier in the day Israel had allowed four truckloads

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of cement into the Gaza Strip so that the planned construction of the dwellings could begin.

“Today we are starting the $1 billion (effort),” Amadi told reporters as he stood in the rubble of a hospital destroyed during the 50-day Gaza war.

Palestinian and United Nations officials said 130,000 houses had either been demolished or dam-

aged, largely by Israeli air strikes and shelling, in the densely populated coastal territory.

“We want more countries to come and build Gaza. Gaza suffered from previous wars,” Amadi said.

At a donors’ conference in Cairo in October Qatar said it would provide $1 billion in reconstruction assistance for Gaza. — Reuters

copters flying in tandem at low altitude when one appears to deviate into the path of the other.

Both helicopters then plunge to the ground.

A second video showed dozens of people rushing through the

heavy undergrowth toward the helicopters’ burning wreckage.

The accident occurred around 5.15 pm local time (2015 GMT) “The sudden death of our fellow French nationals is a cause of immense sadness,” French President

Francois Hollande’s office said.

As part of the show, other contestants were standing blindfolded on the ground a few hundred meters from the helicopters’ flight path, French media reported.

They ran to the crash site but could not extinguish the fire, an assistant to the contestants told French broadcaster RFI. A magistrate judge at the site said all 10 bodies had been retrieved from the helicopters’ mangled ruins and were being taken to a morgue in the provincial capital.

Two pilots and several members of the ALP-TV production company involved in filming the adventure show Dropped for private TV station TF1 were among the dead, officials said.

A spokesman for Argentina’s Air Accident Investigation Board said it was too early to determine if human error, mechanical failure or something else was to blame.

France’s BEA investigation office said it had dispatched two investigators to Argentina to gather evidence on the crash. — Reuters

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No reason to delay Afghan withdrawal

THE INDEPENDENT

L

ast year, the Afghan Army lost more than 17,000 troops and civilian employees as a result of desertions, combat deaths and discharges, leaving a force that is authorised to employ 195,000 people significantly understaffed. In the fight against the Taliban, Afghan forces have been getting killed and injured at a significantly higher rate than in 2014, exacerbating attrition levels that appear to be unsustainable. As a new springtime fighting season approaches, the Afghan government of President Ashraf Ghani, installed in September, has yet to have its nominee for defence minister in the job — apparently, Western officials say, because members of Parliament are holding out for bribes before giving General Sher Mohammad Karimi the green light.

There is little indication that Ghani has the ability to turn these bleak trends around, or that an extended or even indefinite American military presence will lead to the defeat of the Taliban and a functioning Afghan state. Given this reality, the Pentagon is trying to build support for slowing the drawdown of the roughly 10,000 American troops in Afghanistan. The American contingent is scheduled to shrink to 5,500 by the end of the year and then be reduced to a skeleton force by the end of 2016.

Testifying before Congress last week, General John Campbell, the top commander in Afghanistan, said the government in Kabul could benefit significantly from having more American troops remain for the next few months for support and training as the country’s security forces continue to fight the Taliban over territorial control. Ashton Carter, the new secretary of defence, recently said that administration officials are reassessing their drawdown plan and intended to consult with Ghani when he visits Washington at the end of the month.

It’s not surprising that American officials, accustomed to long and costly wars, are making arguments for giving this military campaign a bit more time and money. But they have not convincingly explained how slowing the drawdown stands to accomplish goals that have remained elusive for more than a decade. The deep, underlying problems are perhaps impossible to repair, so the Obama administration is focused on temporary tactical issues. Keeping some 10,000 troops in Afghanistan beyond 2015, officials say, would allow the international coalition to keep a handful of bases outside the capital, giving it the option, for instance, of delaying the closure of the base in Kandahar Province in the south, the heartland of the Taliban insurgency.

It would be a mistake to change the withdrawal schedule without strong evidence that it would make a difference. Bringing the Afghan war to a successful close will require significant shifts in regional politics and a determination by the Taliban that they stand to gain more in the political arena than on the battlefield. It’s unlikely that keeping a few thousand American troops in Afghanistan for an extra year will do anything other than delay the start of that nation’s post-American era. - The New York Times News Service

ACT OF EXONERATION

Libya’s collapse not a fault of the West IAN BIRRELL

Science and stereotypes

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esearch by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development suggests that gender stereotypes remain welldefined when it comes to teenagers’ views about their most likely career path. At the age of 15, boys across OECD countries are four times as interested as girls in pursuing careers in fields including computing and engineering. In higher education and beyond, girls are far more likely to opt out of maths and science-related subjects. In tests carried out in 2012 as part of the OECD’s triennial Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa), females were found to fall behind their male peers in the ability to think like scientists. When asked to explain phenomena scientifically, the gap between boys and girls was particularly acute in the United Kingdom — 21 points, against an average of 15 points across all the countries surveyed.

And yet as the Pisa results show, the differences are not the result of innate, intellectual variances in the male and female brain: if they were, the outcome of tests would be broadly the same for all countries, which they manifestly were not. Instead, girls lag behind for cultural reasons. Indeed, in this country, girls are shown to be much more likely than boys to think they are not good at mathematics and science: their lack of confidence can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. It is important not to feel too gloomy.

In last summer’s GCSE results for science subjects, girls achieved more A* to C grades than boys. Ultimately, though, it is self-confidence in a subject as much as academic attainment which encourages individuals to study at a higher level or to follow a related career path.

Given this country’s skills shortages in areas such as engineering, computer science and manufacturing, there is an obvious imperative to address the feelings of doubt which lead many girls to give up on maths and science at the earliest possible opportunity. – The Independent

In Bangladesh, secularism indeed a restricted word This refers to the article, Where secularism is a restricted word now (March 9). Rise of religious intolerance in Bangladesh is indeed a matter of great concern.

The country’s slide into intolerance began during the mid-1990s.

But the process gained perceptible momentum in 2001 when Bangladesh National Party (BNP), not known for its democratic and secular credentials, stormed into power in alliance with a fundamentalist mainstream political party Jamaat-e-Islami. Jamaat, which had always maintained strong ideological ties with Al Qaeda and Taleban in Afghanistan.

It took full advantage of its alliance with BNP and spread the venom of fundamentalism, radicalised society once and for all, and even

imported extremism not known in the country until then. Politics in Bangladesh has turned more vicious than ever. Unfortunately, the country now remains in news because of an appalling radicalisation of the society.

Tashi Tsarong Muscat

Down Syndrome is not a malady; it is a condition This refers to the news story, Children with Down Syndrome need support (March 10). People have Down Syndrome and they do not suffer from it. It is not a malady and therefore it will not be proper to say that it is a genetic disorder. In fact, it is a genetic condition. If one wants to help raise awareness, one must realise that Down Syndrome should not

Libya today is riven by conflict with two rival governments and parliaments, while well-armed militias and zealots jostle for power, plunder national wealth and terrify residents.

Air strikes are carried out by foreign powers fighting a proxy war

T

here are few historic sites more wondrous than the ruins of Leptis Magna, a Roman city once home to 80,000 people, preserved by Mediterranean sands. It has forests of marble columns, intricate mosaics, imposing, triumphal arches, temples, theatres and an amphitheatre which was dug out beside the sea. Walking around the vast site, much of it still unexcavated, you feel an intense connection with the classical world.

Yet the rise of radicals in Libya has provoked fears for the future of Leptis Magna, along with all the other cultural treasures which can be found in Libya such as the Greek ruins in Cyrene and the 12,000-year-old rock paintings of lions and elephants that stretch for miles along a dried-up riverbed in the Saharan desert. Already militants have destroyed several monuments in Tripoli, and now Isis is beginning to spread its malign influence across the nation.

Such fears are justified at a time when these vile, religious zealots are destroying archaeological treasures in Iraq. The murder, rape and enslavement of human beings is far worse, of course, but bulldozing priceless relics from the past symbolises the crassness of their single-minded savagery.

The fact that Libya’s diplomats are raising the alarm over their nation’s incredible heritage serves as an urgent reminder of the chaos into which this unfortunate country has sunk.

Inevitably, as with other nations such as Egypt and Syria, we hear people say that perhaps it would have been better to have backed an autocrat — in this case the late, and unlamented Colonel Muammar Gaddafi — given subsequent events.

But Libya is different, since not only did Britain support the uprisings four years ago that ousted the dictatorial regime, but British armed forces played a supporting role in ensuring Gaddafi was overthrown after 42 years in power. With hindsight, was it wrong to have done so? Certainly the country is in turmoil. The current threat from the bloodthirsty, barbarous killers who call themselves Isis has been overblown, but it is clearly a presence as shown by the beheading of 21 Christians on a beach; indeed, it is probably also in Sabratha, home to a majestic, Roman theatre which was rebuilt by Italian archaeologists. Regardless, the country is riven by conflict with two rival governments and parliaments, while well-armed militias and zealots jostle for power,

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The only thing that overcomes hard luck is hard work HARRY GOLDEN

plunder national wealth and terrify residents. Air strikes are carried out by foreign powers fighting a proxy war. Little wonder that almost a third of the country’s 6.2 million population has reportedly fled, most to Tunisia.

It is not hard to portray this as another tragic example of misguided, Western intervention. After all, the words of Prime Minister David Cameron telling cheering crowds in Benghazi how they were an example to the world for choosing freedom over dictatorship feel more hollow by the day.

Yet for all the posturing and phoney pledges to help build democracy by the desert, I would argue that Britain and France were right to step in. The failures came later on. The decision to back the rebellion was taken on the grounds that Gaddafi’s forces were about to retake Benghazi, birthplace of the Libyan revolution.

Talk of a looming bloodbath was probably overdone, as were some stories about alleged atrocities, but there is no doubt the dictator and his thieving family would have sought brutal revenge on those that challenged their rule. And it should be remembered that this was not the unwarranted invasion of a foreign nation, as in Iraq, but limited air strikes in support of a popular uprising against a hated regime. The country has since disintegrated, defeated in its attempts to build a democracy. Unfortunately the West, scarred by experiences in Iraq, was reluctant to become too involved in the country’s postconflict reconstruction, while those in charge did not want help despite making silly mistakes such as putting militias on the state payroll rather than disarming them. President Obama says that this failure was his biggest foreign-policy regret. One regular visitor told me that whenever he goes to this benighted country he is asked why the West deserted Libya during its descent into darkness.

Despite the gravity of the problems, hope is not totally lost as the United Nations tries to broker a deal among rival forces. Representatives from Libya’s two, rival parliaments held direct talks for the first time; one source involved in negotiations said the aim was to persuade both sides to give up power and effectively start again.

If there is criticism of the West’s actions, it should be for failing to provide enough support for those trying to build a decent country. And most fundamentally, for still backing cruel regimes in Middle East that lurk behind so many of the problems inflaming the region and North Africa. – The Independent

be associated with terms related to diseases, such as “suffer from” and “disorder”.

Madhavi Gupta Denver, Colorado

Bangladesh showed how to perform without big stars Bangladesh proved that even if you don’t have stars in your side you can still beat a giant. It was such a delight to see England crashing out of the ICC World Cup 2015 losing to Bangladesh. What a fight Bangladesh put up against a mighty opponent! Bangladesh outplayed England in both batting and bowling and finally showed England the exit. The rise of Bangladesh in cricket certainly deserves all praise.

Hats off to the team.

Ashok Panicker Seeb

Victory of Bangladesh is now a part of cricket fable The thrashing that England got from Bangladesh has already become a part of cricket lore. I am sure the England cricket players will take a long time to come out of the shock. It was indeed a big shock for them. Who could have thought England will be thrown out of the ICC World Cup in the league round. I know Bangladesh will not win the World Cup and neither will it play in the final. But that is not important. That Bangladesh defeated England and moved up to the quarterfinals round is in itself a big achievement for the Asian team. These young and unknown boys have shown that they have also come up and are ready for any challenge.

D. N. Sharma Darsait

Letters, containing not more than 200 words with full name, address and telephone number, may be sent by mail (Times of Oman, P.O. Box 770, P.C. 112, Ruwi), by fax (24813153) or by e-mail (times@omantel.net.om)

T I M E S OF OMAN

WE DNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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PERSPEC IVE It’s time for Pakistan to ‘Make it happen’ in 2015 G

reen posters strung around street lamps partitioning Jail Road in Lahore this breezy, wet weekend made a powerful point. Images of women — in a niqab, a hijab or without head-covering — flanked by the caption “Hum barabar hain” (“We are equal”) and the insignia of the Government of Punjab, represented the provincial administration’s message on International Women’s Day. The declaration of the equality of men and women on the eve of March 8 is both relevant and important, particularly given the thematic focus of this year’s International Women’s Day celebrations.

The chosen theme for 2015 is to “Make It Happen” — to undertake effective action for the advancement, recognition and empowerment of women in all spheres of political, intellectual, economic and social life. Belief in gender equality is essential for the achievement of such goal.

Over these past few weeks, the gender question seems to have preoccupied the Punjab Assembly, which undertook somewhat rushed measures through the provincial legislature inviting harsh criticism from the opposition benches.

On March 6, the provincial legislature passed, without notice, three bills introducing muchneeded amendments to the laws governing child marriage, family court procedure and the partition and inheritance of property. The amendments were a response to oft-repeated criticism of the legal system: the insignificance of penalties imposed against those guilty of arranging and solemnising under-age marriages; protracted court procedures inflicting grave inconvenience and suffering on women seeking divorce or maintenance; legal loopholes that facilitate the denial to women of their inherited property.

The provincial executive has been as forthcoming on this front. Television screens have vociferously advertised the government’s decision to increase the reserved quota for women in government jobs from five to 15 per cent, the provision of a 50 per cent quota for women under the youth business loan scheme, and the inauguration of yet another daycare centre for children.

The provincial government is candid regarding the urgency of the recent legislative measures. Law Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman apparently emphasised the importance of communicating Punjab’s concern and activism for

SAHAR BANDIAL

This is patriarchy, the social structure that buttresses the relegation of women to men and feeds the mindset that justifies both obvious and more obscure instances of women’s oppression

women’s rights to the international community on International Women’s Day. Do the amendments then amount to mere lip service to portray a softer and more palatable image of Pakistan to the outside world? Are such measures sufficient to “Make it Happen”?

It is important to note that official assertions of a commitment to women’s empowerment have not surfaced for the first time this year.

The last decade has witnessed policy and legislative reform addressing issues of sexual harassment and violence against women, greater visibility of women in public life and a more open discussion of women’s subjugation.

Figures, however, continue to bemoan the familiar tale of oppression. Data collected by the Aurat Foundation records 10,139 reported cases of violence against women in 2014, an increase from the preceding year’s 7,852 cases, majority of which occurred in Punjab.

That six women were kidnapped, four raped, and six murdered on each day of 2014 in Pakistan, presents an even more horrifying account.

On the economic front, the labour force participation of women remains at a meagre 25 per cent, with low levels of female literacy and increased school dropout rate contributing to the statistic. The so-called emancipated, educated woman too encounters, accepts and internalises more insidious modes of oppression.

The unnerving stare at a public gathering, the sudden but calculated brush against her, the non-seriousness with which her colleagues view her intellect and ambition or disapprove of her success, the pressure to somehow also fit the stereotype of the submissive, docile, marriageable woman, or the realisation that her dreams are only secondary to the demands of male prerogative. This is patriarchy, the social structure that buttresses the relegation of women to men and feeds the mindset that justifies both obvious and more obscure instances of women’s oppression.

Though legislative and policy activism is essential to facilitate an enabling environment for women, the professed commitment to gender equality is meaningless without a change in such mindset. To “Make It Happen” we must think, challenge, critique and consider alternatives to existing structures of gender relations. The onus rests as much on women as men. – The Express Trinune

How to turn a crisis into an opportunity

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s oil prices continue to fall we in Oman should learn to cope with the situation and support the austerity measures likely to be taken to meet the challenges. It should not be taken as a matter of shame. We should rally behind our Government in its efforts to overcome this crunch, and work hand in hand to resolve them by sharing the burden. It’s important that we seek solutions and alternatives to get over the tough times.

We must learn to face national crises smartly.

We should not complain just because the authorities have hinted at taking harsh measures, but try to understand these policies and shoulder responsibility.

It is far easier to criticise Government measures, without even being aware of the significance of what one writes or states, completely ignoring the fact that we are facing a tough time.

The Government has assured that basic services would not be affected. The Government, no doubt, will keep its promise and will not put into use any harsh measures unreasonably which may affect people and public services.

This, however, does not mean

ALI BIN RASHID AL MATANI

that no austerity measures will be taken at all, including gradual withdrawal of subsidies on fuel, which costs the country a billion riyals annually. We can cope with this by rationalising our use of fuel, for instance by limiting vehicle use or using fuel-efficient cars.

Moving further, the public should assume a proactive role and cooperate in implementing specific policy measures designed for the common good. It’s also important that people are made aware of the importance of these measures as a strategic action plan to ensure continued national progress.

It’s time now to educate the people about the significance and urgency of adopting austerity measures. This may well cause misunderstanding, confusion and frustration among some.

This panic is being exacerbated by some fear-mongers who are totally unaware of the national priorities and requirements.

When people do not participate in national decision making or do not even appreciate policy undertaken for management of crisis, the Government has no option but to yield to creditor countries and their not-so-acceptable terms and conditions.

Once thus indebted, things may reach a stage when people will have to face greater hardships to meet debt obligations.

All these could be averted if we are ready to adopt austerity and shun extravagance. We can thus turn crisis into opportunity. We Omanis have done that many a time in the past. The Renaissance of the Sultanate is the result of our joint efforts and commitment towards our country, which we have built against heavy odds.

Our national unity is our pride and asset — cornerstones of our economic and infrastructural development. The stunning growth which we have achieved could not have been possible without our plurality fostered and nurtured

by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. We as a nation will never be intimidated by the crisis created by the falling prices of crude. We must retain our faith and confidence in our Government.

The author is a member of Oman Journalist Association and a senior writer for Arabic newspapers. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman.

A silk glove for China’s iron fist BRAHMA CHELLANEY

F

or years, China has sought to encircle South Asia with a “string of pearls”: a network of ports connecting its eastern coast to the Middle East that would boost its strategic clout and maritime access.

Not surprisingly, India and others have regarded this process with serious concern.

Now, however, China is attempting to disguise its strategy, claiming that it wants to create a twenty-first-century maritime Silk Road to improve trade and cultural exchange. But friendly rhetoric can scarcely allay concern in Asia and beyond that China’s strategic goal is to dominate the region.

That concern is well founded. Simply put, the Silk Road initiative is designed to make China the hub of a new order in Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

Indeed, by working to establish its dominance along major trade arteries, while instigating territorial and maritime disputes with several neighbours, China is attempting to redraw Asia’s geopolitical map.

The strategic dimension of the maritime Silk Road is underscored by the fact that the People’s Liberation Army has led the debate on the subject.

The PLA National Defence University’s Major General Ji Mingkui argues that the initiative can help China to craft a “new image” and “win influence,” especially as the US “pivot” to Asia “loses momentum.”

Yet PLA experts remain eager to disavow the Silk Road initiative’s link with the “string of pearls.” Instead, they compare it to the fifteenth-century expeditions of Zheng He, a Chinese eunuch admiral who led a fleet of treasure ships to Africa.

According to Central Military Commission member Sun Sijing, Zheng used the ancient Silk Road without seizing “one inch of land” or seeking “maritime hegemony” (though history attests to his use of military force — for example, executing local rulers — to control maritime chokepoints).

In reality, little distinguishes the maritime Silk Road from the “string of pearls.”

Though China is employing ostensibly peaceful tactics to advance the initiative, its primary goal is not mutually beneficial cooperation; it is strategic supremacy. Indeed, the Silk Road is integral to President Xi Jinping’s “China dream” ambitions, which entail restoring China’s past glory and status.

Xi’s use of a $40 billion Silk

Road Fund and the new China-sponsored Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to develop the maritime Silk Road reflects this approach.

Already, China is constructing ports, railroads, highways, and pipelines in the region’s littoral states, not only to facilitate mineralresource imports and exports of Chinese manufactured goods, but also to advance its strategic military goals. For example, China concluded a multi-billion dollar deal with Pakistan to develop the port at Gwadar, owing to its strategic location at the mouth of the Strait of Hormuz, which more than offsets the port’s limited commercial potential.

Twice last autumn, Chinese attack submarines docked at Sri Lanka’s newly opened, $500 million container terminal at Colombo Harbour — built and majority-owned by Chinese state companies. China has now embarked on a $1.4-billion project to build a sprawling complex roughly the size of Monaco on reclaimed land in Colombo — a “port city” that will become a major stop on China’s nautical “road.”

Zhou Bo, an honorary fellow with the PLA Academy of Military Science, admits that China’s mega-projects “will fundamentally change the political and economic landscape of the Indian Ocean,” while presenting China as a “strong yet benign” power.

This is important, because the new Asian order will be determined less by developments in East Asia, where Japan is determined to block China’s rise, than by events in the Indian Ocean, where China is chipping away at India’s longstanding dominance.

India is certainly suspicious of China’s behaviour.

But China is treading carefully enough that it can continue to advance its goals, without spooking its intended quarry. The American academic John Garver depicted it best using a Chinese fable: “A frog in a pot of lukewarm water feels quite comfortable and safe. He does not notice as the water temperature slowly rises until, at last, the frog dies and is thoroughly cooked.”

Seen in this light, it is not surprising that China has invited India to join the maritime Silk Road initiative. The aim is not only to help calm a suspicious neighbour, but also to slow the development of India’s strategic ties with the US and Japan.

China aims to fashion an Asian order based not on a balance of power with the US, but on its own hegemony. Only a concert of democracies can block this strategy. - Project Syndicate

Modi to counter China in Indian ocean Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to offer wide-ranging military and civilian assistance to Indian Ocean island states in a bid to wrest back some influence China has gained in those nations in recent years

Main Oil Shipping Lane Persian Gulf Arabian Arabian Sea

Bay Of Bay Of Bengal Bengal

TODAY IN HISTORY

OPINION POLL

537

The Goths lay siege to Rome.

1649

The peace of Rueil is signed between the Frondeurs (rebels) and the French government.

Do people risk their lives unnecessarily by disregarding weather warnings issued by the authorities in Oman?

1665

A new legal code is approved for the Dutch and English towns, guaranteeing religious observances unhindered.

Maldives 2 3 Seychelles

Indian Naval bases “String of pearls”: Ports built by China to exert control over trade routes in Indian Ocean

Bangladesh CChh i nnaa South Myanmar Myanmar South China China Sea Sea I Inndd iiaa

an

ist

k Pa

Agalega Islands 4 Mauritius

1 Sri Lanka Modi expected to tighten defence cooperation and push for final approval for 500 MW power plant to be built by Indian state- run energy firm in strategic port of Trincomalee

1 Sri Lanka

Indian Ocean 500km Indian Indian Naval 310 Miles O c e aBases n “String Of Pearls”: Ports Built

By China To Exert Control Over Australia Trade Routes In Indian Ocean

4 Mauritius Modi to commission 1,300-tonne Indian-built patrol vessel MCGS Barracuda. Future sales will include 13 fast attack ships currently under construction in India

1810

The Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte is married by proxy to Archduchess Marie Louise.

2 Maldives Requires surveillance assistance against piracy and threat from Islamic State supporters

New Delhi wants Mauritius to grant use of remote Agalega Islands to improve India’s air surveillance capabilities in Indian Ocean region

1811

Ned Ludd leads a group of workers in a wild protest against mechanization.

3 Seychelles India expected to sign agreement on mapping waters around archipelago

China is upgrading international airport after authorities cancelled deal with Indian firm in 2012

1935

The German Air Force becomes an official organ of the Reich.

Source: Wire agencies, Global Security

Graphic News /

Graphics

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FROM OUR ARCHIVES MAJLIS OFFICE HOLDS MEETING

MUSCAT: The Majlis Al Shura office yesterday held its first regular meeting of the year, under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Qatabi, president of the Majlis. After approving the minutes of its previous meeting, the office reviewed the steps to implement decisions of that meeting and conducted a comprehensive assessment of the first regular session’s works. The meeting also reviewed a message from the secretary general of the Council of Ministers.

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

WORLD

A seized arms cache is displayed at a National Guard post in Medenine onn Monday. Tunisian troops have captured a second large arms cache near the border with Libya, including Kalashnikov rifles and rockets, a security source said. Tunisia and Libya are waging campaign against hardline groups. – Reuters

Archaeologists dig up 3,000 skeletons at burial ground A team of 60 researchers will work in shifts six days a week over the next month at the Bedlam burial ground in London to remove the centuries-old skeletons

LONDON: Archaeologists in London have begun digging up some 3,000 historic skeletons including those of plague victims from a burial ground that will become a new train station, the company in charge said.

A team of 60 researchers will work in shifts six days a week over the next month at the Bedlam burial ground to remove the centuries-old skeletons, which will eventually be re-buried at a

HUGE TASK: Archaeologists work in the Bedlam burial ground on the future site of a Crossrail ticket hall next to Liverpool Street Station in London. – Reuters

cemetery east of London.

Crossrail, which is building a major new east-west train line in London, said the dig near Liverpool Street station was being carried out on its behalf by the Museum of London’s archaeology unit.

The company said in a statement that the bones would be

tested to “shed light on migration patterns, diet, lifestyle and demography” of Londoners at the time.

“Archaeologists hope that tests on excavated plague victims will help understand the evolution of the plague bacteria strain,” Crossrail added.

The Bedlam ground was used between 1569 and 1738 -- a period that spanned Shakespeare’s plays, the Great Fire of London and numerous plague outbreaks.

The excavation is also expected to further uncover the remains of an ancient Roman road, where Crossrail said that several ar-

tefacts such as horseshoes and cremation urns have already been found.

The area was London’s first municipal burial ground and was named after the nearby Bethlem Royal Hospital or “Bedlam” -- the world’s oldest psychiatric institution, which became a byword for all mental institutions and has since relocated outside London.

The burial ground was used by Londoners who could not afford a church burial or who chose to be buried there for religious or political reasons.

Members of the Levellers, a 17th-century political grouping that advocated popular sovereignty and religious tolerance, are believed to be buried there.

Following excavation, constructors will build a new ticket hall for Crossrail’s Liverpool Street station.

“This excavation presents a unique opportunity to understand the lives and deaths of 16th and 17th century Londoners,” said Jay Carver, Crossrail’s lead archaeologist. “The Bedlam burial ground spans a fascinating phase of London’s history, including the transition from the Tudor-period City into cosmopolitan early-modern London.” — AFP

OVER IS VIDEOS

Amman to replace orange jumpsuits for cleaners AMMAN: Jordan’s capital Amman said on Tuesday it is replacing the orange jumpsuits worn by its city cleaners because of their similarity to those of hostages murdered in IS group videos.

The jumpsuits — believed to be meant as a symbol of the US detention facility at Guantanamo Bay — have been worn by hostages killed

by IS in grisly videos, including a Jordanian pilot burned alive last month. Starting from March 20, Amman’s more than 6,000 street cleaners will trade in their orange jumpsuits for turquoise uniforms, city authorities said in a statement. The decision was taken at the request of city residents and the brother of Maaz Al Kassasbeh, the deceased pilot, because “the colour orange is now associated with the terrorist practices of IS,” the statement said.

Turquoise was chosen after a poll conducted on the city’s website and though social media, the statement said. IS, which has taken control of large parts of Iraq and Syria, has dressed hostages including Western journalists and aid workers, as well as Egyptian Coptic Christians, in orange jumpsuits before killing them in recorded executions. — AFP

NEW CRUISE SHIP Dancers perform ahead of the naming ceremony for the new P&O Cruises ship at the Ocean Cruise Terminal during the inaugural celebrations and naming SCAN THIS FOR ceremony in Southampton Docks on MORE PHOTOS Tuesday. Britannia is the largest cruise ship built for P&O Cruises and will take the fleet to eight ships. She will be able to accommodate up to 3,647 passengers and 1,350 crew over 18 decks and will feature a collection of work by contemporary British artists. The Queen has previously launched the QE2 in 1967, Oriana in 1995, Queen Mary 2 in 2004 and Queen Elizabeth in 2010. — AFP

A B D U C T E D F R O M L I B YA N O I L F I E L D

Bangladesh names kidnapped citizen DHAKA: Bangladesh on Tuesday identified a second citizen among a group of foreign workers taken hostage last week by the IS group militant group in an attack on a Libyan oilfield.

Foreigners have increasingly become targets in Libya’s turmoil, where two rival governments are battling for control and extremists have grown in the chaos that followed Muammar Gaddafi’s ouster four years ago.

Up to 10 foreign workers were missing after the attack on the Al Ghani oil field south of the city of Sirte, Czech and Libyan officials have said. There has been no sign of the oil workers from Austria, the Czech republic, Bangladesh, the Philippines and at least one African country who went missing, an Austrian foreign ministry spokesman said.

Bangladesh’s foreign ministry on Tuesday identified the second abducted citizen as Mohammad Anowar Hossain, a resi-

dent of Noakhali, about 165 km (103 miles) southeast of Dhaka, the capital.

He had mistakenly been identified as a Sudanese national with a similar name at first, the ministry added. “However, Anowar’s identification was confirmed by a Bangladeshi working in a neighbouring oil field,” it said in a statement, adding that Libyan officials had assured the embassy in Tripoli they were making every effort to rescue the men.

Militants claiming loyalty to IS militant group in Iraq and Syria have been blamed for high-profile attacks this year involving foreigners, including an assault on a Tripoli hotel and the beheading of a group of Egyptian Christians.

Militants this month also stormed and damaged several Libyan oilfields around Al Ghani, forcing the government to declare force majeure, pull out workers and shut down production on 11 oilfields in the central Sirte basin. — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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WORLD

Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, 83, was a deputy speaker of parliament after the 1979 revolution and headed the judiciary for a decade until 1999

Myanmar cracks down on protesters SCAN THIS QR CODE TO INSTANTLY VISIT

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In a statement

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N .C O M

posted on its website, the Ministry of Information said 127 people, including 20 women, were arrested

LETPADAN (MYANMAR): Scores of Myanmar protesters were arrested when baton-wielding police dispersed a student rally Tuesday, as the second crackdown in days deepens fears that authorities are returning to the repressive reflexes of the junta era.

Two large truckloads of protesters were taken away after riot police violently broke up the rally in the central town of Letpadan, according to an AFP reporter on the scene, ending over a week

BATON-CHARGED: Police hit a student protester during violence in Letpadan, Myanmar, on Tuesday. — Reuters

of stalemate between the authorities and students calling for education reforms.

The Ministry of Information said 127 people, including 20 women, were arrested in a statement posted on its website.

A senior police officer confirmed

R E P U L I C A N S E NAT O R S M E S S AG E T O I R A N

Lawmakers’ letter saps trust in US dealings: Zarif TEHRAN: Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif told top clerics on Tuesday a letter from Republican senators undermining a possible nuclear deal had sapped Tehran’s confidence in dealings with the United States.

Extending his criticism of the open letter, whose 47 signatories included several potential 2016 presidential candidates, Zarif said: “This kind of letter is unprecedented and undiplomatic.

In truth, it told us that we cannot trust the United States.”

Zarif’s remarks, reported by the Isna news agency, came in Tehran at a meeting of the Assembly of Experts, Iran’s top clerical body, where he gave an update on the negotiations with world powers for a comprehensive agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme.

He said on Monday that the letter had “no legal value”.

Effectively undercutting the White House, the senators wrote that President Barack Obama is in office only until January 2017, and a successor could scrap the agreement if Congress has not approved it.

While Iran and the United States are longtime foes, Zarif and his negotiating team have consistently said that the nuclear talks have been conducted in a good and serious atmosphere.

However he added Tuesday: “Negotiations with the United States are facing problems due to the presence of extremists in Congress.”

The Republicans’ letter appeared to be another bid to influence or even derail the talks between Iran and the P5+1 powers -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia as well as the United States.

Rare foray It also marked a rare foray by Congress into foreign policymaking, as US negotiations with other governments are a responsibility typically handled by the executive branch, not lawmakers.

Obama pilloried the letter, comparing the senators to Iranian MPs who seem opposed to detente, saying he would make his case for any possible nuclear deal to voters.

This kind of letter is unprecedented and undiplomatic. In truth, it told us that we cannot trust the US Javad Zarif Iranian Foreign Minister

“It is somewhat ironic to see some members of Congress wanting to make common cause with hardliners in Iran,” he said.

With a March deadline looming, negotiators are furiously working to agree the political outlines of a deal that would curb Iran’s nuclear programme in return for the lifting of Western sanctions.

Khamenei’s criticism The fine details of the accord are meant to be settled by the end of June but Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has criticised the two-step process, saying matters should be handled in one sweep.

A new round of talks between Zarif and US Secretary of State John Kerry is due to take place in Lausanne, Switzerland on Sunday. — AFP

A S S E M B LY O F E X P E R T S

Ex-judge to head Iran’s top body TEHRAN: Iran’s Assembly of Experts, the clerics who appoint and can dismiss the country’s supreme leader, picked an ultraconservative as their new chairman in a surprise appointment on Tuesday.

Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, 83, was a deputy speaker of parliament after the 1979 revolution

and headed the judiciary for a decade until 1999.

He gained 47 of the 73 votes cast at a closed-door meeting in Tehran, according to the website of state television, citing officials.

Yazdi was among five contenders whose names had been linked to the post by Iranian media in recent weeks. — AFP

protesters had been injured.

“Some were injured and taken to hospitals for treatment,” the police official told AFP on condition of anonymity, adding that some 16 police officers were also hurt by rocks thrown by demonstrators.

The crackdown has intensified

concerns that authorities are resorting to the repressive tactics of the previous authoritarian regime, as the nation stumbles towards a general election slated for the end this year.

It also comes just days after authorities used violence to end a supporting rally in Yangon, prompting condemnation from rights campaigners.

Criticising the use of “excessive force” in Letpadan, Phil Robertson of Human Rights Watch said the “disguise has come off and we are back to the bad old Burma of yesteryear,” referring to the country by its previous name.

The embassy of former colonial power Britain tweeted that it was “deeply concerned” about Tuesday’s events, while its US counterpart also took to Twitter urging “patience, compromise and

restraint” on Myanmar’s path to democracy.

Myanmar’s quasi-civilian government, which replaced outright military rule in 2011, has ushered in a number of major reforms that have lured foreign investment back into the isolated nation. But observers fear democratic reforms are stalling.

Defending the police Government spokesman Ye Htut defended the police after Tuesday’s violence, saying they were forced to react to provocation by the protesters.

“After many warnings that were not followed, police had to use force to disperse the protest because (protesters) attacked them and tried to destroy barricades,” he said in a post on his Facebook page.

The students have for months been demonstrating for reform in Letpadan, but plans by a core group to march to Yangon were halted on March 2 when police surrounded some 150 activists near a monastery in the dusty central town.

Tempers frayed early Tuesday when demonstrators tried to push through the security blockade after authorities apparently reneged on an agreement to allow them to continue their march.

“The police beat us,” one student protester, requesting anonymity, told AFP by telephone as he took shelter with some 70 other demonstrators in a monastery.

Student campaigners have been at the forefront of several of Myanmar’s major uprisings, including a huge 1988 demonstration that prompted a bloody military assault under the former junta.

The government has also defended its Friday crackdown on an unauthorised rally in Yangon from accusations that police and men in civilian clothes beat unarmed protesters with batons.

Students have demonstrated sporadically since November 2014 against a new education law, demanding changes to the legislation to decentralise the school system, teach in ethnic languages and allow the formation of student unions. — AFP

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WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W EDN ES DAY, M ARC H 11, 2015

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Muscat 6,462.04 - 59.56 - 0.91%

Dubai 3,752.52 + 0.76 + 0.02%

Abu Dhabi 4,512.79 - 65.41 - 1.43%

Kuwait 6,529.83 + 19.57 + 0.30%

Saudi Arabia

9,612.71 - 10.25 - 0.11%

Bahrain 1,471.73 + 0.55 + 0.04%

Qatar 12,264.38 + 28.56 + 0.23%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.37 Pound ............................................ 1.71 Indian Rs .............................162.65 Pak Rs ...................................260.28 Bangla Taka.......................199.28

Indian Rs .................................. 162.80 Pakistan Rs ............................ 263.25 Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 343.65 Bangla Taka.............................201.70 Phil Peso .................................... 114.25

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......14.90

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........ $55.97 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$55.83 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) .........$57.94 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) .........$57.80 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ........$58.00 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........ $49.77

Oil production in February at 26.8m barrels Total crude oil exports last month reached 26.16 million barrels or 934,289 barrels per day, showing a robust growth of 14.83 per cent over the previous month Times News Service MUSCAT: Oman’s crude oil and condensate production touched 26.8 million barrels, which is equivalent to 957,000 barrels per day, in February 2015, according to a statement from the Ministry of Oil and Gas. Total crude oil exports last month reached 26.16 million barrels or 934,289 barrels per day, showing a robust growth of 14.83 per cent over the previous month.

The Asian countries imported the biggest share of Omani crude oil for the second month in a row.

MIDDLE EAST REGION

Lower oil prices could lead to new tax measures Times News Service MUSCAT: Lower revenues as a result of the drop in oil prices and the need for diversification of government revenues in the Middle East countries are expected to lead to the introduction of new taxes or an increase in the rates of existing taxes to help support future growth, said a new report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC).

“Many regional economies have an ambitious agenda to stimulate economic activity and enhance growth. Nevertheless, tax reforms will need to be smartly designed to allow economies to remain highly attractive to businesses and foreign investments,” said Jeanine Daou, partner and Middle East leader for Indirect Taxes and Fiscal Policy in the report.

“Most countries in the region are looking to enhance their existing tax systems and explore alternative sources of revenue, notably through a broad-based tax system.”

“Among available options, VAT (value-added tax) is recognised as one of the most serious and efficient choices,” Daou further added.

Among Asian markets, China’s import of Omani crude oil declined by 7.41 per cent, although it is still the top importer, which reflects the strong and continuous demand for Oman crude oil by the Chinese consumers.

Likewise, Taiwan’s import of Omani crude oil increased with a share of 18.75 per cent, which shows a growth of 1.4 per cent as compared to February.

South Korea, India and Tanzania followed after these two top importers in the list of countries importing crude oil from Oman.

The ministry report said that the

* Rates as of Mar. 10 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of Mar. 10 Source: Bank Muscat

crude import of both Japan and Thailand came down to stabilise at low rates.

With regard to the movement of the oil markets in February 2015, the average oil price of West Texas stood at $51.32 per barrel, recording an increase of $3.70, compared to January 2015. While the average Brent crude stood at $59.26, showing a growth of $9.2 over January, 2015. The settlement prices for various global crude oils in February 2015 have seen a remarkable increase compared to the settlement prices the previous month, due to buying support.

There has been a fall in the number of rigs used for oil production since small producers and high cost fields discarded some of the fields. This is expected to influence supply of crude oil, which may prop up oil prices. Average price of Oman Crude delivery in April 2015 was $56.21 a barrel, recording an increase of $9.48 compared to March 2015.

RETURN ON INVESTMENT

BankDhofar revises its dividend payout Times News service MUSCAT: Based on the recommendation of the Central Bank of Oman, BankDhofar has revised the proposed cash dividend to five per cent of paid up capital and the bonus shares to 15 per cent instead of 10 per cent cash dividend and 10 per cent bonus shares.

The proposed dividends are subject to approval by the shareholders in the forthcoming annual general meeting, according to a disclosure statement posted by the bank on Muscat Securities Market (MSM) website.

BankDhofar earlier said that the bank has achieved a net profit of OMR40.45 million for 2014. The net profit for 2014 is 14.23 per cent higher than the previous year’s net profit (excluding OMR26.1 million written back from a legal case in 2013), but it shows a 30.74 per cent fall if compared to the previous year’s OMR58.41 million profit, which include the amount written back from the legal case.

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......14.35 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............ 140.75 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 133.75 * Rates as of Mar. 10 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

MARKET NEW PRODUCT

Apple unveils smartwatch, 18-karat gold edition to cost $17,000 SAN FRANCISCO: Apple launched its long-awaited watch on Monday, including yellow or rose gold models with sapphire faces costing up to $17,000, but some investors questioned whether chief executive Tim Cook’s first product would be a breakaway hit.

Apple’s first new device since Cook became CEO will be available for order on April 10 and in stores on April 24, including chic bou-

tiques in Paris, London and Tokyo.

Starting price $349 The Apple Watch sport will start at $349 for the smaller, 38-mm model. The standard version of the watch will start at $549 and the high-end ‘Edition’ watch will be priced from $10,000, said Cook, who loved the Dick Tracy ability to hold phone calls by watch. “I have been wanting to do this since I was

five years old,” said Cook.

The different models reflect different materials. A $17,000 Edition in the smaller, 38-mm size, has a case made from a customised version of 18-karat rose gold, which is especially hard, along with a sapphire display. It comes with a magnetic charging case.

In a nod to both fashion and technology, Cook shared the stage with model Christy Turlington

Burns, who used it to train for a marathon, and Apple engineers who showed how to send drawings, pictures and even heartbeats with the watch.

Apple shares barely budged, however. Investors and analysts agreed that Apple would sell millions to fans but questioned whether it had a ‘killer app’ that would engage a broader audience.

Apple in September gave a sneak

peek of the watch which included many features shown on Monday.

Members of the style establishment, in Paris for shows from the glittering likes of Chanel, Givenchy and Hermes mostly said they saw the watch as a gadget, not this season’s must-have accessory.

The Edition price tag which is inexpensive compared to a Patek Philippe Nautilus at just over $42,000 on 11main.com. - Reuters AGM DECISION

Air Arabia approves 9% cash dividend Times News Service MUSCAT: Air Arabia board of directors has approved the distribution of a nine per cent cash dividend of the company’s share capital for the year 2014, equivalent to nine fils per share.

During the annual general meeting (AGM), the assembly also approved the report of the company’s auditors for the financial year ending on December 31, 2014, as well as the balance sheet and profit and loss accounts for the same period.

The assembly also discharged the directors and auditors of the company from liability for the financial year ending December 31, 2014, and appointed auditors for the company for the next fiscal year in order to fix their remuneration.

The first and largest lowcost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa, Air Arabia (MENA), which now operates service to 104 destinations from four global hubs, announced earlier that its 2014 net profit reached Dh566 million, up 30 per cent compared to 2013. Air Arabia’s total turnover for 2014 reached Dh3.7 billion, an increase of 17 per cent on 2013, driven by increased passenger numbers.

WE DNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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MARKET LOCAL PRODUCTS

Omani products’ exhibition in Sohar to support local firms Times News Service MUSCAT: An exhibition of Omani products got underway in Sohar on Tuesday, in line with the Omani products’ campaign ‘Omani 2015’ aimed at promoting and generating awareness of locally manufactured products.

The exhibition, which will continue until March 12, was inaugurated at the Oman International

Exhibition Centre, Sohar, under the patronage of Sheikh Muhanna bin Saif Al Lamki, governor of Al Batinah North.

Organised by the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE) in cooperation with Silver Star Corporation, the exhibition offers a perfect gateway to reach highly potential markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

“It is essential to gather a signifi-

cant number of local companies and factories under one platform to introduce their products and services to the public. We hope there will be continuous exhibitions organised throughout the year to get the citizens, residents and tourists more acquainted with locally manufactured products,” said Al Lamki.

On his part, P.D. Nath, managing director of Silver Star said that

BankDhofar cuts interest rates on various loans are introduced to help eliminate any roadblocks that keep customers from fulfilling their goals or accomplishing their aspiration.”

This offer allows customers to enjoy 4.2% interest rate on personal loans and 4% interest on housing loans Faisal Hamad Al Wahaibi

Times News Service MUSCAT: BankDhofar said it offers 4.2 per cent special interest rate on personal loan and 4 per cent interest on housing loan.

To further facilitate personal loans, BankDhofar customers can now enjoy special rates when they apply for personal and housing loans from March 1 to June 30 for all new and buy-out loans. The special rates are fixed for six months. Customers who apply for loans after June 30, will H O S P I TA L I T Y

Qatar Airways buys Heathrow Sheraton Hotel DUBAI: Qatar Airways bought the Sheraton Skyline Hotel at London Heathrow’s airport in a first foray into lodgings outside the Gulf, and said it’s planning to add further properties in the UK and North America.

The deal follows a string of Qatari investments in the UK that includes a 20 per cent stake in Heathrow held by the state’s sovereign wealth fund and Qatar Air’s purchase of 9.99 per cent of IAG, owner of British Airways, the hub’s top carrier.

The four-star hotel, which features the tropical Sky Garden and pool, will continue to be managed by Starwood under the Sheraton brand, according to a statement from Qatar Air. London’s Canary Wharf The purchase advances its plan to expand in property beyond the five-star Oryx Rotana Hotel in Doha, which it owns, and the Hamad International Airport Hotel, which it manages.

A Qatari-led group succeeded in buying London’s Canary Wharf development on January 30, expanding a collection of assets that includes stakes in the Shard skyscraper, Olympic Village, Harrods department store and HSBC headquarters. Qatar Airways has six daily flights to Heathrow. - Bloomberg News

get the regular rates released beginning of January 2015, said a bank release.

BankDhofar has announced special offers and discounted rates for personal and housing loans, in addition to the diverse options of banking solutions.

Commenting on the various facilities and solutions provided by BankDhofar to enrich customer experience, Faisal Hamad Al Wahaibi, DGM - Retail Banking Division, said: “Personal and housing loan solutions from BankDhofar

Instant loan options “Our loan facilities come with minimal processing fee and attractive interest rates. This offer allows customers to enjoy 4.2 per cent interest rate on personal loans and 4 per cent interest on housing loans. We are committed to providing instant and personalised loan options that are specially made to suit our customers, fulfil their needs and exceed their expectations.”

Aspiring to be the best bank in the Sultanate and the wider Gulf area, BankDhofar is committed to provide customers with the best banking experience through a diverse range of unique products and services.

Today BankDhofar is one of the fastest growing banks in the Sultanate, with a strong presence in corporate and retail banking, investment and project finance.

The bank has an extensive network of branches across Oman.

the core objective of organising the exhibition in Sohar is to showcase locally manufactured and quality machinery, products, services and technology of international standard at competitive prices. “The exhibition also aims at strengthening the bilateral relations between the GCC countries and the Sultanate of Oman,” added Nath.

Visitors to the exhibition applauded the quality maintained by ECONOMY

China’s rate of inflation rebounds BEIJING: China’s consumer inflation rebounded in February from a more-than-five-year low, official data showed on Tuesday, but a plunge in factory gate prices added to persistent concerns about deflation in the world’s second-largest economy.

The 1.4 per cent increase in the consumer price index (CPI) compared to a gain of 0.8 per cent in January, according to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) figures.

The result, which exceeded the median forecast for a 1 per cent gain in a survey of analysts.

- Bloomberg News

Omani products, making them the first choice while shopping.

Karam Al Balushi, a visitor, said, “Omani products are always my first choice. I encourage everyone to go for the locally manufactured products in their shopping list as they are of excellent quality and they compete strongly with other products in spite of the varying prices of some products.”

Maha Sarkis from Lebanon

mentioned that Omani products are among her selected products when she goes shopping in Oman.

“It is not surprising that the Omani products have made their presence felt especially when we compare them with imported products in terms of quality,” commented Sarkis.

PEIE aspires to disseminate awareness on distinguished and high quality national products.

B4

W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

MARKET Index falls The top gainer of the day was Gulf Stones, up by 9.76 per cent, while Al Batinah Development, down by 5.35 per cent, was the top loser MUSCAT: Sell off on index heavy weighted stocks weighed on the MSM30 Index which closed at 6,462.04 points, down by 0.91 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index ended at 991.33 points, down by 0.19 per cent. Gulf International Chemicals was the most active in terms of volume while Bank Muscat was the most active in terms of turnover. The top gainer of the day was Gulf Stones, up by 9.76 per cent, while Al Batinah Development, down by 5.35 per cent, was the top loser of the day.

A total number of 1,472 trades were executed during the day’s trading session generating turnover of OMR7.02 million with more than 24.94 million shares changing hands. Out of 45 traded stocks, six advanced, 22 declined and 17 remained unchanged. At the session close, Omani investors remained net buyers for OMR714,000 while GCC & Arab Investors were net sellers for OMR415,000 followed by Foreign Investors for OMR299,000 worth of shares.

Financial Index declined

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 6,522.35 .............. 6,462.04 ...................6,462.04 ................... 6,521.60................-59.56 .................. -0.91 Financial Index ..................................... 8,116.63 .............. 8,002.14 ................... 8,002.14 ....................8,114.76..............-112.62 .................. -1.39 Industrial Index ................................... 8,649.26 ...............8,614.35 ....................8,615.77 ................... 8,615.47....................0.30 ...................0.00 Services Index .......................................3,547.83 ...............3,538.77 ....................3,538.77 ....................3,547.79.................. -9.02 .................. -0.25 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................993.27 .................. 991.33 .......................991.33 ...................... 993.26...................-1.93 .................. -0.19 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 24,947,183 ..................7,024,184 ..................1,472 ...............15,005,894,639 .................. 6 ..................... 22 .................... 17 .........................45

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR TUESDAY, MARCH 10 strongly to close at 8,002.14 points, down by 1.39 per cent.

Gulf Investment Services, up by 3.13 per cent, was only sector gainer. Al Batinah Devlopment, NBO, Al Anwar Holding, Global Financial Investment and Bank Sohar declined by 5.35 per cent, 3.41 per cent, 2.85 per cent, 2.78 per cent and 2.44 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index closed at 8,615.77 points, unchanged from Monday level. Gulf Stones, National Aluminium and Galfar Engineering increased by 9.76 per cent, 5.81 per cent and 1.96 per cent respectively. Al Jazeera Steel, Gulf International Chemicals, Al Anwar Ceramics and Oman Flour Mills decreased by 2.89 per cent, 2.21 per cent, 0.82 per cent and 0.35 per cent respectively.

Services Sector Index decreased by 0.25 per cent and closed at 3,538.77 points. ACWA Power and Sharqiyah Desalination increased by 1.45 per cent and 0.15 per cent respectively.

— United Securities

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

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

OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS .............. 45,000 .............14,752........................4 ........... 0.320 ...........0.328 ...........0.320........... 0.328 .............0.310.............0.018 ............. 5.806 ................0.328..............0.310...................0.328 ...............11,011,436 .......0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 6,853,942....1,131,183...................253 ............0.163 ........... 0.169 ...........0.160............0.165 .............0.160 ........... 0.005............. 3.125 ................0.161 .............. 0.161...................0.164.................9,709,131.........0.100 OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 1,745,857....... 272,177...................108 ............0.155 ........... 0.158 ........... 0.151 ............0.156 ............. 0.153............ 0.003..............1.961.................0.152 ...............0.151...................0.152............... 41,124,527 .......0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA ...............................................48,929 .............41,100........................9 ........... 0.840...........0.840 ...........0.840 .......... 0.840 .............0.828 ............0.012 ............. 1.449 ................0.840..............0.840...................0.880 .............134,400,000 .....0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ........................................................55,853 .............97,463........................3 ............1.745 ........... 1.745............ 1.745 ............1.745 ............. 1.745 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................ 1.745 ...............1.745...................1.780 ............. 349,000,000 .....0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST ......................................................................35,000 .............16,660........................2 ............0.476 ........... 0.476 ...........0.476........... 0.476 .............0.476 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.476..............0.466...................0.476..............160,289,668......0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ...............................................1,350 .................. 497........................1 ........... 0.368 ...........0.368 ...........0.368........... 0.378 .............0.378 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.368..............0.362...................0.368............... 23,135,215 .......0.100 OM0000002275 ...........SHELL OMAN MARKETING ...................................35,000 ............70,000........................2 ........... 2.000...........2.000 ...........2.000 .......... 2.000 .............2.000 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.000 .............1.950...................2.150..............190,000,000 .....0.100 OM0000002572 ...........OMAN OIL MARKETING ............................................5,000 ............. 11,150........................1 ........... 2.230...........2.230 ...........2.230 .......... 2.230 .............2.230 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.230..............2.230...................2.235..............136,643,250......0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. .........8,502 ............. 19,215........................4 ........... 2.260...........2.260 ...........2.260 .......... 2.260 .............2.260 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.260 ............ 0.000...................2.260 .............155,940,000 .....0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY ........................................................3,516 ............... 1,425........................7 ............0.418 ........... 0.418 ...........0.400 ...........0.418 ............. 0.418............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.404..............0.390...................0.418...............25,289,000.......0.100 OM0000003711 ............SOHAR POWER.................................................................7,550 ...............2,869........................5 ........... 0.380 ...........0.380 ...........0.380........... 0.380 .............0.380 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.380..............0.380...................0.384 ..............83,983,800.......0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO.........................................................................48,594 .............34,793........................7 ............0.716 ........... 0.716............0.716 ............0.716 ............. 0.716............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.716 ..............0.680................... 0.716 ..............466,076,069 .....0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ................................................ 24,000 ............. 13,776........................1 ............0.574 ........... 0.574 ...........0.574........... 0.574 .............0.576 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.347 ...............0.574..............0.520...................0.574...............90,405,000 ......0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 113,941 .......... 199,467......................31 ............1.755 ........... 1.760............1.750 ............1.750 ............. 1.760............-0.010 ........... -0.568 ...............1.750 .............. 1.750................... 1.755 ............1,312,500,000 ....0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ..................................................... 107,521 ............. 15,331......................13 ............0.142 ........... 0.143 ...........0.142........... 0.143 .............0.144 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.694 ...............0.142.............. 0.141...................0.142............... 39,326,891 .......0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ..................................67,197 ............ 32,628........................4 ........... 0.486 ...........0.488 ...........0.484........... 0.486 .............0.490 ...........-0.004 ........... -0.816................0.488..............0.484...................0.488.............. 119,966,541 ......0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS .............................................................52,464 ............ 24,355......................17 ........... 0.470 ...........0.470 ...........0.454........... 0.464 .............0.470 ...........-0.006 ........... -1.277................0.460..............0.450...................0.458............... 21,140,496 .......0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 440,256 ..........186,769..................... 34 ........... 0.430 ...........0.430 ...........0.418 ........... 0.424 .............0.430 ...........-0.006 ............-1.395................0.420..............0.412...................0.420 .............119,608,048 ......0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING........... 473,190 ........... 64,570......................51 ............0.141 ........... 0.141............0.133 ............0.136 ............. 0.138............-0.002 ........... -1.449 ...............0.133 ..............0.130...................0.133...............16,575,000 .......0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN ......................................................10,000 ...............1,340........................1 ............0.134 ........... 0.134 ...........0.134........... 0.134 ............. 0.136............-0.002 ............-1.471 ................0.134 .............. 0.133...................0.134..............268,041,914......0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 768,474 ......... 174,360..................... 65 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.225........... 0.227 ............. 0.231............-0.004 ............-1.732................0.225............. 0.222...................0.225 ..............45,400,000 ......0.100 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK ..................................................................... 24,500 ...............5,096........................4 ........... 0.208...........0.208 ...........0.208 .......... 0.208 .............0.212 ...........-0.004 ............-1.887................0.208............. 0.204...................0.208 .............269,461,380......0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 3,170,611 .... 1,818,859....................191 ........... 0.586 ........... 0.586 ...........0.564........... 0.574 .............0.586 ...........-0.012 ........... -2.048 ...............0.566..............0.566...................0.570............1,252,863,020....0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 2,187,159.......579,232................... 193 ........... 0.273 ........... 0.275 ...........0.260 .......... 0.265 ............. 0.271............-0.006 ........... -2.214 ...............0.267..............0.267...................0.268 ...............5,565,000 ........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING .............78,690 ............. 13,745......................11 ............0.182 ........... 0.182 ...........0.172 ............0.175 ............. 0.179............-0.004 ........... -2.235 ...............0.172 ..............0.170...................0.172............... 15,141,000 .......0.100 OM0000002614............ONIC. HOLDING ........................................................... 20,000 .............. 8,200........................1 ............0.410 ........... 0.410 ...........0.410........... 0.410 .............0.420 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.381 ...............0.410 ..............0.410...................0.428 .............. 71,103,533 .......0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 458,450 ............91,585..................... 23 ........... 0.203 ...........0.203 ...........0.198 ........... 0.200 .............0.205 ...........-0.005 ........... -2.439 ...............0.198 .............. 0.196...................0.200 ............ 228,800,000 .....0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ..................10,000 ...............1,050........................1 ............0.105 ........... 0.105 ...........0.105 ........... 0.105 .............0.108 ...........-0.003 ........... -2.778 ...............0.105 ..............0.102...................0.108...............21,000,000.......0.100

INDIAN MARKETS

OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 6,094,422 ..1,664,390...................245 ........... 0.280...........0.280 ...........0.265........... 0.273 .............0.281............-0.008 ........... -2.847 ...............0.270..............0.268...................0.270 ..............35,626,500.......0.100

Sensex, rupee drop

OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ..........................19,400 ............... 6,518........................6 ........... 0.336 ...........0.336 ...........0.336........... 0.336 .............0.346 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.890 ...............0.336..............0.334...................0.336............... 41,965,715 .......0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 258,085 ............ 87,813..................... 32 ........... 0.350 ...........0.350 ...........0.336........... 0.340 .............0.352 ...........-0.012 ........... -3.409 ...............0.338..............0.336...................0.338..............414,401,350......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 23,272,453......6,702,368 ..........1,330 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......32..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

MUMBAI: Indian stocks fell for the second day, with the benchmark index sliding to a onemonth low, on concern the recent rally may have exceeded the outlook for earnings growth.

The S&P BSE Sensex lost 0.5 per cent to 28,709.87 at the close, after changing direction at least 15 times.

The index slumped 2.1 per cent on Monday after data showing strength in the US labour market fuelled speculation the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates sooner than forecast. The Sensex had its fourth weekly advance after the central bank on Wednesday cut borrowing costs for a second time this year.

Rupee falls India’s rupee slumped to a twomonth low as speculation an improving US economy will prompt the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates as early as June boosted the dollar.

The rupee fell for a second day, losing 0.4 per cent to close at 62.78 a dollar in Mumbai, prices from local banks compiled by Bloomberg show. It touched 62.8050 earlier, the weakest level since January 8. Indian sovereign bonds fell, with the yield on the 8.4 per cent notes due July 2024 rising one basis point to a one-week high of 7.75 per cent, according to prices from the central bank’s trading system. — Bloomberg News

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

OM0000002671............GULF STONES............................................................... 25,000 ...............2,250........................3 ........... 0.090 ...........0.090 ...........0.090........... 0.090 .............0.082 ........... 0.008............. 9.756 ................0.090..............0.090...................0.000 ............... 3,267,000 ........0.100 OM0000004669 ...........SHARQIYAH DESALINATION ..................................4,999 .............16,522........................1 ........... 3.305 ........... 3.305 ...........3.305........... 3.305 .............3.300 ........... 0.005............. 0.152 ................3.305..............3.305...................3.450...............32,323,614 .......1.000 OM0000001269............COMPUTER STATIONERY IND. .............................. 1,000 .................. 283........................3 ............0.281 ...........0.285 ...........0.281........... 0.279 .............0.279 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.285..............0.281...................0.290 ...............2,790,000 ........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ...................................................... 62,400 ............... 4,151......................13 ........... 0.067 ...........0.068 ...........0.065........... 0.067 .............0.067 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.065..............0.064...................0.067................8,375,000 ........0.100 OM0000002564 ...........AL HASSAN ENGINEERING................................... 70,000 ...............9,020........................8 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.127 ........... 0.129 .............0.129............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.129 .............. 0.125...................0.128................ 9,701,832 ........0.100 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH................................................39,338 ............92,444......................15 ........... 2.350 ...........2.350 ...........2.350........... 2.350 .............2.350 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................2.350..............2.350...................2.390 ............ 224,324,408 .....1.000 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER..................................................52,238 ...............9,455..................... 10 ............0.181 ........... 0.181............0.181 ............0.181 ............. 0.181............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.181 .............. 0.181...................0.182..............122,154,625......0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ....................................................40,535 ............... 7,337........................7 ............0.181 ........... 0.181............0.181 ............0.181 ............. 0.181............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.181 .............. 0.181...................0.182..............129,307,548......0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ........................................................850 ...................513........................2 ........... 0.604 ...........0.604 ...........0.604........... 0.608 .............0.608 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.604..............0.600...................0.604 ..............30,400,000 ......0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 708,400 ........... 62,443......................16 ........... 0.089 ...........0.089 ...........0.088........... 0.088 .............0.089 ...........-0.001 ............-1.124................0.088..............0.087...................0.088..............132,000,000 .....0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ...................... 650,780 ..........115,364..................... 62 ............0.183 ........... 0.183 ........... 0.171 ............0.177 ............. 0.187............-0.010 ........... -5.348 ...............0.171 ..............0.170...................0.172................ 5,310,000 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 1,655,540 .......319,782...................140 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ...... 11..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

BOND MARKET .................................................................................................................................................................................

OM0000004867 ...........BANK MUSCAT C C B 4.5 ............................................. 9,595 ................1,017........................1 ............0.106 ........... 0.106 ...........0.106........... 0.106 .............0.106 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.106..............0.106...................0.108...............33,882,124 .......0.100 OM0000004602 ...........BANK MUSCAT CONV. BONDS 4.5 .......................... 9,595 ................1,017........................1 ............0.106 ........... 0.106 ...........0.106........... 0.106 .............0.108 ...........-0.002 ........... -1.852................0.106..............0.106................... 0.111 ...............32,091,406.......0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................... 19,190 ...............2,034........................2 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........2..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

WE DNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

ROUND-UP Holiday Souq to offer attractive packages The event aims at showcasing various travel products and hundreds of exciting holiday destinations across the world which can help people from Oman to plan their dream vacations in the year ahead

MUSCAT: Following the tremendous success of last year’s Holiday Souq, Bahwan Tourism, part of the leading travel consortium under Suhail Bahwan Group, is back with its second edition of Holiday Souq event on Saturday, March 14, at the InterContinental Hotel, Qurum.

In response to customer demands, this year’s Holiday Souq is being organised in a more spacious venue as more travel partners, airlines and tour operators have

joined the event offering more exciting choices of holiday destinations/packages across the world and with lot more attractive prizes to be won, says a press release.

Holiday Souq 2015 is supported by many international tourism bodies such as Thai Tourism Authority, India Tourism, Malaysian Tourism Authority and Abu Dhabi Tourism along with popular airlines such as Emirates, Fly Dubai and Thai Airways.

Also taking part in the event are major tour operators whom Bahwan Tourism represents in Oman viz. Thomas Cook India, Cosmos, Globus Family of Brands, Monograms, Avalon Waterways and Royal Orchid Holidays.

“We were the first travel agency in Oman to organise such an event of this scale last year, which was a huge success. Since then we have received several requests from our customers to repeat the event and so here we are this year on a bigger

QUIZ CONTEST

scale,” said, Shankar Bose, general manager, Bahwan Tourism.

This event is aimed at showcasing various travel products and hundreds of exciting holiday destinations across the world which can help people from Oman to plan their dream vacations in the year ahead. In addition to on-the-spot gift vouchers/discounts, there will be a raffle draw by which 10 lucky winners will be able to win free packages to various destinations across the world.

CULINARY SKILLS

Ready, set, grill with A’Saffa BBQ Challenge MUSCAT: Oman’s most prestigious barbecue cooking competition, the ‘A’Saffa BBQ Challenge’, will see 25 families battle it out at the Civil Aviation Club on March 13. This would be a terrific opportunity to showcase one’s barbeque culinary skills for a truly appetising family barbeque getaway, says a press release.

The teams will be judged by Oman’s celebrated master-chef Issa Al Lamki and his team of chefs and will also declare the winner, 1st runners up and 2nd runners up. Tune into Oman TV and Radio Shabab FM from 5pm to 6.30pm for Live telecast of the competition as it unfolds on March 13.

“Anyone coming to the ‘A’Saffa BBQ Challenge’ knows it’s just as much about having fun as it is about the intense competition.

Not only has the event appealed to families in Muscat, but we have competitors and visitors from all over the Sultanate who will come to Muscat to be part of the competition, and enjoy one of

the main things Oman is known for during this time of the year barbecue,” said Sidhartha Lenka, Head of Marketing and Sales, A’Saffa Foods.

He continued, “All eyes in the barbecue circuit will be on the ‘A’Saffa BBQ Challenge’ this weekend; and we as a leading poultry and allied products think this is the best on-ground event to promote our range of fresh, halal, healthy, tasty and 100% natural chickens.”

Three fully-dressed chicken will be provided to each team by A’Saffa at the competition. For their own convenience, participants have been asked to bring their own barbecue sets, coal, fuel, skewers, spices and culinary ware. The families will receive points based on: Taste, recipe innovation, recipe originality, cooking hygiene and preparation, and presentation. The event will also provide a special A’Saffa food fare for kids. Special events for the kids, such as a magic show, games and DJ have also been organised.

E X PA N S I O N

Kia Sorento’s digital contest Malabar Gold to open its new offers amazing gift voucher outlet in Salalah tomorrow MUSCAT: Visitors to http://www. kia.com/om/experience/promotion.html are treated to an exciting digital contest!!!

Promising an online gift voucher up to OMR100 from Roumaan, the ‘New Sorento Quiz Contest’ has been running for three weeks.

“In the first three weeks,” explains the spokesperson, “The focus was on unique features of the New Sorento (Adaptive front lighting system, smart tail gate, blind spot detection), and now in the last week, the quiz is on New Sorento.”

The spokesperson spelt out the exciting mechanism of the contest, “For the contest, a picture of a body part of the vehicle is put as a jigsaw puzzle. When a user answers a question correctly, a jigsaw piece falls in place. When all questions

are answered, all the pieces are in their correct places and the full picture reveals itself!”

After answering the quiz, participants are given an option to earn additional points by visiting any of the Kia showrooms, taking a selfie with a Kia and posting it on the contest page.

“The selfie they take with Kia gives them additional points - if it is as per terms and conditions,”

says the spokesperson, “The showroom visit also enables the digital participants to engage with the Kia team,” he adds.

Users’ points get added in a Leaderboard. “As this is the last week, we advise all Kia enthusiasts to try their luck and do their best to win the gift. Good Luck!,” adds the spokesperson. People can also go to these alternate links to take part in the contest: www. kiaOman.com and www.gct.om/ kia/NewSorentoContest.

Reliable International Automotive, the distributor for Kia in Oman provides a rewarding ownership experience for customers.

Excellent product attributes and unmatched facilities easily ensure their absolute satisfaction, every mile of the way.

MUSCAT: Driven by the increased demand for high quality gold and diamond jewellery in international designs, Malabar Gold & Diamonds, one of the leading jewellery retailers, announced the opening of its 128th outlet in Oman, which will be inaugurated by prominent Indian actress Preity Zinta tomorrow at 5pm.

This elegant showroom conveniently located at Al Salam street, Salalah, will be their second showroom in Salalah, seventh in Oman and 48th in the Middle East, says a press release.

Like all other Malabar Gold & Diamonds outlets, this showroom will also display a significantly large collection of traditional as well as contemporary jewellery in gold, certified diamonds, platinum and precious stone jewellery

Prominent Indian actress Preity Zinta will open the showroom tomorrow at 5pm

from across the world that can hold you spell-bound with their awe-inspiring beauty.

Inaugural offers To celebrate this occasion, the group has introduced fabulous inaugural offers for their customers.

With every purchase of diamond jewellery worth OMR500, the

SPECIALIST

TULIP INN STAFF RECEIVES APPRECIATION CERTIFICATE Waheed Al Balushi, Front Office Manager, Tulip Inn-Muscat Hotel, receives his Certificate of Appreciation after completing his training in Bahrain. Naji Abi Farah, general manager, expressed his wish to send more Omani staff for training abroad and see them in high positions in the hospitality sector. — Supplied picture

H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

AOL to organise Yoga Festival on March 21 MUSCAT: To promote healthy living, in collaboration with Ministry of Sports and Ministry of Health the Art of Living Foundation will be conducting Yoga Festival. The festival is planned at Marah Land, Al Qurum. It will be held on March 21 from 6pm to 9pm. The festival is free and open to people of all ages, says a press release.

Besides yoga demonstration, there will be stalls emphasising the importance of healthy food and life style modifications for a disease free body and a stress free mind. Art of Living (AOL) is conducting this entire programme as a not-for–profit project.

AOL is one of the world’s largest volunteer based organisation and is promoting healthy living through the practices of yoga and meditation in more than 150 countries. This festival is an Art of Living’s initiative to create awareness about yoga and create interest in its practice for a healthier and

happier living. It will highlight the benefits and practice of yoga in a simple and joyful manner. Various postures having benefits in chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, obesity which can be learnt and practiced regularly to help contain the usage of medicinal drugs.

This event would be the kick off for a month-long activity which will involve individuals, schools, colleges and other educational institutes, corporate sector, ministries and government departments across the Sultanate. It will promote the 12 pose Yoga Sequence which, if can be learnt easily and if incorporated in one’s daily routine, helps in promoting physical and mental well- being and can prevent major health disorders. The conclusion of the month long event will be with a grand finale in one of the sports complexes/ stadiums with a challenge to complete 108 rounds of the 12 pose Yoga Sequence.

customers will get a 1gm gold coin absolutely free and the customers can also avail a free gold coin with every purchase of gold jewellery worth OMR300. These offers are valid at their outlet in Salalah until March 31.

Unique jewellery One of the most important factors driving the group’s success are innovation in their strategies, designs, promotions and the trust Malabar Gold evokes. With a rich mix of traditional and trendy jewellery in gold, diamond and platinum, Malabar Gold is one of the most preferred destinations for quality jewellery. The combination of purest jewellery and cutting edge designs combining unmatched grace and style makes their jewellery unique.

APPOINTMENT

Renowned paediatrician joins Lifeline Medical Centre MUSCAT: Lifeline Medical Centre Darsait welcomed paediatrician Dr Rohini Joshi to their medical team, recently.

After specialising in paediatrics with top honours in 1985, Dr Rohini has worked as a paediatrician for over 30 years (20 years in Oman) and has a rich experience in clinical and preventive paediatrics. She is known in the local medical fraternity as an astute clinician with excellence in medical judgment. Apart from treating infectious as well as non-infectious ailments, Dr Rohini has in depth knowledge in vaccinology and is well versed with Ministry of Health policies regarding EPI, says a press release.

“With her expertise and experience, Dr Rohini is able to guide parents in monitoring the growth and developments of their children along with helping them understand appropriate dietary

or exercise requirements. Dr Rohini’s pleasant personality and friendly nature with children has made her a favourite amongst children and parents alike. We are extremely happy to have her on board and welcome her to the Lifeline family of medical care and expertise,” said Retnakumar Janardanan, CEO of Lifeline Hospital Group in Oman.

In addition to diagnosing and treating illness, the services offered by Dr Rohini include - preventive care with routine check-

ups, health-risk assessments and screening tests.

“The emphasis at Lifeline Medical Centre, Darsait has always been in taking doctors with proven experience. Dr Rohini fits in well to the existing panel of specialist doctors which includes Dr Hemachandran, Orthodontist, Dr Gayathri, Gynaecologist and Dr Tashli, Specialist Physician,” said Dr Rohil Raghavan, resident ENT specialist and Hospital Director of Lifeline Hospital Group.

“The medical centre has also recently started Visa Medical screening which has an added advantage due to its close proximity to the Infectious Examination office of Ministry of Health at Darsait. A premium speciality laboratory, high end X-ray with fluoroscopy capabilities, Ultrasound diagnostics are some of the highlights of the facility at Lifeline Medical Centre Darsait.”

PRODUCT LAUNCH

Dahabi Cheese Pastry: A perfect choice with unique taste, flavour MUSCAT: In response to consumer demand for ready-to-eat, quality bakery products, Atyab Bakery launched its new product, Dahabi Cheese Pastry in Oman yesterday.

Dahabi Cheese Pastry is a 100% Omani product which will have a shelf life of 14 days and be available at local food stuff and grocery stores across the country, says a press release.

Dahabi Cheese Pastry is baked using Atyab’s finest wheat flour, filled with feta cheese, which gives a unique taste and flavour.

Dahabi Cheese Pastry is the perfect choice for on the go

healthy snacking product for all age groups.

“Atyab Bakery, with its objective - ‘Taste the real quality from Oman’ is pleased to expand its product offering with the launch of the Dahabi Cheese Pastry.

“The bakery has consistently proved itself with capabilities in manufacturing fresh, frozen bakery products and confectioneries with its state-of-the-art automated production lines. The introduction of the Dahabi Cheese Pastry will further strengthen the market presence of the brand,” says Talal Al Maskeri – Sales Manager at Atyab Bakery.

TBY inducts new country manager for its project on Oman MUSCAT: The Business Year (TBY) has announced the appointment of Ligia Kleber as the Country Manager for its third project on Oman. TBY has initiated research in partnership with Ithraa for The Business Year: Oman 2016, says a press release.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Social Communication/Journalism and a Master’s degree from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama at the University of London, Ligia Kleber joined TBY in 2013 and has successfully directed projects in Mozambique and Nigeria.

In Oman, she will be responsible for overseeing the entire scope of the project, dealing with the most influential players of the Omani economy in both the private and public sectors. This year’s focus is on the key drivers of Oman’s diversification efforts as pressure comes from decreasing oil prices, a renewed emphasis on tourism, bank lending facilitating increased credit for new business operations, FDI opportunities, and the increased importance of Omani ports in regional and global trade. Kleber explained; “Oman has emerged as a hub for infrastructure development, given its strategic location. We are proud to document all the developments here for the third year from the leading figures’ points of view.”

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ROUND-UP

Omasco celebrates year of business excellence As part of the conference, Omasco launched its innovative ‘Afkari’ programme which is a think-tank for employees across all the Omasco business units

MUSCAT: Oman Marketing and Services Company (Omasco), a leading trading, property and financial services company in Oman with key activities in automotive, marine, electronics, projects and engineering and industrial products, recently held a special ‘Conference 2015 – A year

of Business Excellence’ for its employees at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. The aim of the event was to share the vision of the company with the employees and empower them with knowledge on the company’s strategy for the year ahead.

Over 300 employees from across the Sultanate came together to explore the culture of the organisation which endeavours to provide

RECRUIT QUOTES Winning is not a sometime thing; it’s an all time thing. You don’t win once in a while, you don’t do things right once in a while, you do them right all the time. Winning is habit. Unfortunately, so is losing.

— Vince Lombardi Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.

— Henry Ford Success in business requires training and discipline and hard work. But if you’re not frightened by these things, the opportunities are just as great today as they ever were.

— David Rockefeller

a value based customer experience with an engaged workforce, says a press release.

As part of this conference, Omasco launched its innovative ‘Afkari’ programme which is a think-tank for employees across all the Omasco business units. Employees are encouraged to think about what is best for the company and to put forward their ideas to enhance Omasco to even greater

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heights. The programme, which translates to ‘My Ideas’ in English, encourages innovation from within and will ensure the continued success of the company. This forum was also used to recognise and honour individuals who have been with Omasco for over 30 years for their long term association.

Commenting on the event, Hussain Al Lawati, Managing Director, Omasco said, “Omasco’s mission is at the forefront of every team members mind. The principles of choice, value and engagement comes together to achieve this.” He went on to say, “We have a lot of talent in house and we want to encourage them to actively participate in the success of the business.”

Delegates who attended the conference included Len Hunt, president, Al Futtaim Automotive, Colin Cordery, regional managing director and Sandeep Ajgonkar, regional general manager, After Sales. Omasco has focused plans for 2015 and is geared to achieve very competitive results. It has the best team in place to help it to reach its goals.

PROMOTION

Enter ‘A World of Fabulous Fares’ with Qatar Airways DOHA: ‘A World of Fabulous Fares’ awaits Qatar Airways’ passengers till March 13 as travellers can enjoy up to 25 per cent savings on all inclusive return airfares to a wide variety of destinations across the Middle East, Europe, Asia Pacific, Asia and the Americas when they travel between March 12 to July 10, says a press release.

Passengers can make their flight bookings either by visiting any Qatar Airways’ sales office, through appointed travel partners or via qatarairways.com/ globalsale. Seats are limited for the ever-popular Qatar Airways global sale.

Qatar Airways Senior Vice President Commercial – Qatar, Ehab Amin, said: “With ‘A World of Fabulous Fares’ sale, we will enable more travellers to experience Qatar Airways’ renowned in-flight hospitality and five-star service, while also taking advantage of our state-of-the-art gateway to the world — Hamad International Airport — for themselves. For loyal passengers

Avail up to 25 per cent savings to more than 140 destinations in the Qatar Airways’ network when travelling between March 12 to July 10

of Qatar Airways, we take pride in offering them diverse destination choices for both leisure and business, and our global sale allows them to experience even more of the world for less.”

As one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, Qatar Airways has experienced rapid growth in just 18 years of operation. Today it flies a modern fleet of 150 aircraft.

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ZNA pick-up range offers value for money Rich pick-up from ZNA is equipped to meet varying business needs and gives complete value for money

MUSCAT: Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile (ZNA) range has been highly appreciated by customers from different walks of life, including fishermen, farmers and businessmen.

It has been specifically lauded for its value for money proposition and state-of-the-art Nissan technology. Be it its comfortable interi-

ors or its reliable engine, the ZNA range has left its customers rather impressed, says a press release.

A senior spokesperson of Towell Auto Centre (TAC), the sole distributors of ZNA range in Oman, comments: “Quality, durability and safety and add to that reasonable pricing – all these factors have earned ZNA a great reputation and a customer base that is continuously expanding. Many people belonging to different strata of the society have shown interest in ZNA pick-up as it offers an impressive combination of power, capa-

bility and efficiency. Combining Nissan’s hi-tech quality standards and durability with low cost production facilities at Dongfeng, ZNA manufactures the same Nissan quality at a value which is very reasonable.”

“In a country where pick up is one of the main modes of transportation, the ZNA Single and Double pick-up range has proven to be a reliable workhorse. It has been especially designed for sectors that are the backbone of our country like fishermen, merchants, farm owners and those in the construc-

COACHING CLINIC

tion and transportation sector,” the spokesperson adds.

The Rich pick-up from ZNA is equipped to meet varying business needs and has complete value for money. Dependable for a wide variety of activities, it is available in single cabin 2 door and double cabin 4 door configurations. The powerful 2.4 litre 4 cylinder engine sees you through it all, be it a long drive to a faraway destination or hauling heavy loads. Thus, it can be used both for personal leisure and professional commitments.

The adjustable and compressible steering column, independent double wishbone suspension along with the plush interiors and a CD + USB + SD card enabled audio system make sure each drive in a ZNA is a comfortable one.

With a network of 11 showrooms, 13 service outlets and 10 parts outlets spread across the Sultanate, TAC is the sole distributor of the ZNA range in Oman.

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CONTEMPORARY MANAGEMENT

AOU set to organise seminar for senior managers tomorrow MUSCAT: Faculty of Business Studies of Arab Open University (AOU) will host a seminar on Contemporary Management Education and Practice tomorrow.

This seminar is targeted at senior managers from government and corporates, says a press release.

Saleh Al Musalhi, Head of Corporate Affairs, Oman Oil Company will deliver the key note address. Dr Bassim Shebeb, DeanFaculty of Business Studies & Director of MBA programme will present AOU-MBA programme.

Dr Moosa Al Kindi, Director, AOU Oman Branch will also participate in this seminar. Dr Mohammed Al Haziazi, AOU-MBA Programme Coordinator, Oman, along with other members of the faculty, coordinates this seminar.

Arab Open University is an International University having campuses in eight countries (Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia,

Lebanon, Jordan, Bahrain, Egypt and Sudan). AOU has academic partnership with the prestigious Open University, UK. Degrees are awarded by both Open University, UK and Arab Open University.

Arab Open University (Oman Branch) offers a range of programs both at Bachelors and Masters Level. AOU offerings include programmes in Business, IT, English Literature and Education. Visit us on www.aou.edu.om for further information.

AOU-MBA programme is a 2-year (4-Semester) programme offered in Flexible, Blended learning mode. AOU-MBA programme develops managers for senior management positions and responsibilities. It prepares managers holistically so that they can “make a difference” to their respective organisations.

Participation in the seminar is strictly by invitation.

P O W E R B R E A K FA S T

Ooredoo and PSG to bring top Zubair SEC’s specialised football coaches to Oman advisers accelerate efforts MUSCAT: Ooredoo is giving children in Oman the opportunity of a lifetime — to learn from worldclass coaches at a clinic held by Paris-Saint Germain (PSG) on March 13 and 14.

Ooredoo has launched a special social media campaign using the #OurOman, asking parents and youth to upload videos of 6 to 16 year olds, showcasing their footballing talent. Ooredoo will then select the most promising young stars to participate in the workshop, says a press release.

“We are investing in human potential. Our focus on the community continues to grow, and

this unique prospect offers an unforgettable experience for local youth to learn from the very best as well as showcase their talent to the world. This programme will empower young people and instil in them the value of teamwork,

discipline and commitment, as we open the door for their dreams to become professional footballers,” said Kumail Al Moosawi, Chief People Officer at Ooredoo.

The clinic will bring some of France’s finest footballing coaches to deliver the training. Participants will include players selected from football clubs, children of Ooredoo family members, special VIPs and those who applied on the Ooredoo Facebook page with #OurOman.

The programme forms part of both Ooredoo and PSG’s approach to encourage healthy lifestyles and support young peoples’ ambitions and aspirations.

MUSCAT: As part of its strategy to engage its different stakeholders for feedback and insight towards continuous improvement of services, Zubair Small Enterprises Centre (SEC) held a power breakfast for the volunteering specialised advisers of the centre in its new offices in Muscat, says a press release.

During the event, Zubair SEC team shared an overview of the centre’s progress in the past year and elaborated on Zubair SEC’s Specialised Advisory Model, with some examples of successful matchings that have been taking place between members and specialised advisers. The meeting was very engaging as all attendees have brought to the table ideas and questions on how to further advance their contribution to the success of the centre’s members.

High-calibre advisers Zubair SEC prides itself with a broad line-up of 22 experienced high-calibre specialised advisers from inside and outside the Sultanate, who volunteer to contribute with their diverse expertise and knowledge towards the development and support of Zubair SEC members.

Those advisers come from all business backgrounds and share

During the power breakfast event, Zubair SEC team shared an overview of the centre’s progress in the past year and elaborated on Zubair SEC’s Specialised Advisory Model a passion for helping innovative and self-driven Omani entrepreneurs turn their business ambitions into sustainable realities.

All advisers are profiled on the centre’s website www.zubairsec. org which provides one way for

its members to identify the kind of expertise they would like to benefit from and expressing that need to Zubair SEC team through provided communication channels. Connecting members with advisers then follows a simple process that starts with assessing the members’ need before putting them in contact with the requested specialised adviser; later on, feedback is regularly gathered to make sure both parties are meeting each other’s expectations.

The Zubair SEC Specialised Advisory model has within a year proven flexibility and adaptability to the needs of the members, in a way that would best capitalise on the capacities of the volunteering advisers, and the team is committed to continuous development of this model as well as all the other services offered.

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Shooters and riders make Oman proud

MEDAL WINNERS: Oman’s golden girl Siham Al Hassani, left, and equestrian team who won the silver in the 80km endurance race.

The Omani shooters claimed an individual gold and team bronze while the equestrian team settled for silver medal in the 80km endurance race

MUSCAT: The Sultanate’s athletes bagged medals of all three colours at the ongoing GCC Women’s Games on Tuesday.

The Omani shooters, who

opened the hosts’ account with a 10m air pistol team silver and individual bronze on Monday, continued their medal-winning performance to claim an individual gold

and team bronze while the equestrian team settled for a silver medal in the 80km endurance race.

At Ghala Shooting Range, Siham Al Hassani emerged Oman’s golden girl taking top honours in the individual competition of the 10m rifle shooting with 205.6 points.

Kuwait’s Maryam Al Ruzuqi (201.8) took the silver while Qatar’s Ayesha Al Suwaidi (178.4) clinched the bronze medal.

In the team event of the same competition, Oman team of Siham (405.9), Khadija Al Jahafi (400) and Ameena Al Tarashi (400) settled for bronze with 1205.9 points.

Bahrain team, who scored 1219.2

points, win the gold medal while Qatar took silver with 1206.2 points.

In the equestrian action at Al Rahba Farm in Barka, the Omani girls combined well to clinched team silver in the 80km endurance race. The gold went to the UAE team while Qataris settled for bronze.

In the individual category of the same event, the UAE girls won the gold and silver while the bronze went to Qatar.

In the baskebtall action at the indoor stadium of the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Bahrain defeated Kuwait 38-34 while Qatar recorded a 67-55 win over the UAE.

DHAWAN HITS HUNDRED AS INDIA CRUSH IRELAND Shikhar Dhawan hit an aggressive century as defending champions India recorded their fifth victory in a row at the World Cup with a thumping eight-wicket win over Ireland in Hamilton on Tuesday. >C3

SAILING

All set for Extreme Sailing Series Act 2 MUSCAT: The Sultanate is all set for the Extreme Sailing Series (ESS) Act 2 as the four-day action kick off at Almouj Golf Club on Wednesday.

With up to eight races planned each day, it will be a treat for both the competitor and the sailing enthusiasts. The Extreme 40 fleet will race in the circuit’s action packed ‘stadium’ from the Almouj Golf Club offering excellent spectator views of the racecourse from the Race Village for four days of champagne sailing conditions.

During the four-day competition, the focus will be on two local teams — The Wave, Muscat and Oman Air, as the Oman Sail teams have done extremely well on home waters in the previous years.

According to a press Oman Sail press release issued earlier, The Wave Muscat, led by British Olympian Leigh McMillan, have built themselves into a powerhouse in the world of Extreme 40 Stadium Racing. Joined on board by two-time British Olympic gold medallist Sarah Ayton as tactician, Extreme 40 heavy weights Ed Smyth and Pete Greenhalgh, as well as Omani national Nasser Al Mashari, the team has thrived in recent years on their home turf, winning the Muscat Act in both 2013 and 2014. In 2012 the Act honours went to fellow Omani syndicate Oman Air. However, a shake up in the leaderboard after Act 1 Singapore sees defending Champions The Wave,

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Muscat on the back foot. Red Bull Sailing Team, spearheaded

by Austrian double Olympic gold medal-winning duo Roman Hagara and Hans Peter Steinacher, took the Singapore event win followed by Danish team SAP Extreme Sailing Team who, returning for their fourth year on the circuit, turned their experience and potential into results.

The Wave are in third position going into Act 2. Oman Air, has a new crew onboard headed up by two-time British Olympian Stevie Morrison. Currently sitting fifth overall, Morrison is joined by fellow Team GB sailors Ed Powys and Nic Asher, and bringing some valuable Extreme 40 experience to the syndicate Australian Headsail Trimmer Ted Hackney and Omani Bowmen Ali Al Balashi.

Making their debut on Omani waters will, Lino Sonego Team Italia and Team Turx powered by Kaya Ropes.

List of participating teams: GAC Pindar (GBR), Gazprom Team Russia (RUS), Lino Sonego Team Italia (ITA), Oman Air (OMA), Red Bull Sailing Team (AUT), SAP Extreme Sailing Team (DEN), Team Turx powered by Kaya Ropes(TUR) and The Wave, Muscat (OMA).

AFC CUP

OSA HOSTS PRESENTATION ON GCC WATER SPORTS DEVELOPMENT PROJECT Oman Swimming Association (OSA) hosted the first visual presentation aimed at development of water sports in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The presentation addressed the program and its objectives of the national project for the development of water sports which is based on the model introduced by Saudi Arabia. The presentation was made by Mohammed Ali Al Ghamdi, Secretary General of the Saudi Arabian Swimming Federation. — Supplied photo

Oman’s Al Nahda lose BURAIMI: Oman’s Al Nahda Club was in the receiving end in a Group A match of the AFC Cup Tournament played at the Buraimi Sports Stadium on Tuesday.

Al Nahda failed to capitalise on the home advantage as they hosted Al Wehdat Club of Jordan, only to see the visitors trump with

a big margin. In fact, the Jordan club prevailed 3-0 to take away all at stake from their away match.

Monther Abu Amar opened the account for Al Wehdat in the 20th minute and later Mahmoud Zatara (77th minute) and Talal Malick (90th) completed the formalities for the visitors.

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Stag Racing to field biggest team at Endurance Race The presence eight talented drivers give the team management plenty of options to try out

MUSCAT: Team Stag Racing, the biggest team in the fray for the 24hour SWS Endurance Race, aims to put up a good show when the event begins at the Oman Automobile Association karting track, Muscat Speedway, on Friday.

In fact, the presence eight talented drivers give the team management plenty of options to try out for during the toughest race that will conclude on Saturday evening.

Mulham Al Rawahi, a senior member, said the team hopes to make amends to its performance in the last edition of the endurance race. “Our aim is to make podium finish this year. We will utilise the experience we gained to achieve our goal,” he said.

Last year, we could manage a poor ninth place finish. So we have

EYEING PODIUM FINISH: Stag Racing are hoping to make amends for their performance in the last edition of endurance racing by winning the the podium place. – Supplied photo

decided to push hard,” he added.

According to Mulham, his team has the services of both aggressive and consistent drivers.

“Five members of the team will go faster during their turn while the other three will do consistent driving. It will help us put pressure on the rivals,” he said.

Mulham believes that endur-

ance race is a tough test for the drivers who have to stick to a strategy and avoid penalty to make the podium finish.

“Despite our poor finish, we didn’t collect any penalty last year.

It was a huge achievement in an endurance competition. We hope to maintain the record intact this year too,” he said.

The youngster said they will push hard from the start. “It is important to get a good start and maintain the lead. We have devised a strategy that will keep us in the forefront of the competition,” he said.

Medical team ready An expert team of doctors, nurses

and paramedics will take care of the medical emergencies during the 24-hour karting race.

“The medical team has been helping us for quite some time and it will not be different this time either,” said Suleiman Al Rawahi, Managing Director of OAA. “We have seen that karting drivers experience giddiness during the competition. The number of cases may increase as they drive during the odd hours. So we are ready to face emergency situations. We have the services of experienced surgeons to teat injuries besides nurses and paramedics. We will work in three shifts from 4 pm on Friday till the end of the race on Saturday,” said Issam Al Raisi, supervisor of the medical team.

It may be recalled that the medical team has been assisting the OAA in all the events, including the rally championships and drift events. “We have provided medical assistance to OAA in many events. So we are well aware of the common injuries. We are also ready to meet emergency situations,” Issam added.

Team Stag Racing: Mulham Al Rawahi, Mukhtar Al Rawahi, Mannan Al Rawahi, Abdullah Al Maskary, Adulsalam Al Kitany, Mohammed Al Hunaini, Harith Al Harthy and Said Marhoobi.

Manager: Mohammed Al Rawahi.

FOOTBALL

Bahrain and Brunei back Prince Ali for Fifa president MANAMA: Bahrain and Brunei are backing Jordan’s Prince Ali bin Al Hussein to oust incumbent Sepp Blatter as president of world soccer’s ruling body Fifa, the Jordanian news agency Petra reported on Tuesday.

It said Bahrain’s King Hamad and Brunei’s Prince Sufri had met Prince Ali, the Fifa vice-president for Asia, in Manama to discuss the May vote and both men had assured Prince Ali of their countries’ support.

The Bahrain News Agency stopped short of saying the monarch had endorsed the candidacy, however, reporting that King Hamad had commended the Jordanian’s work with Fifa and wished him “every success”.

Four candidates are standing for the top job in world soccer at the May 29 election, including Blatter who is celebrating his 79th birthday on Tuesday.

The other two are Michael van Praag, President of the Dutch governing body KNVB, and former Portugal winger Luis Figo.

The South American Football Confederation Conmebol has signalled it will back Blatter, who is favourite to win a fifth term in office, although observers noted there was no public endorsement of the Swiss at their recent congress. - Reuters

FOOTBALL

Bank Muscat joins hands with OFA to make HM’s Cup memorable

PARTNERS: OFA chief Sayyid Khalid Al Busaidy, left, with Bank Muscat Chief Executive AbdulRazak Ali Issa. – Supplied photo

MUSCAT: Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, as part of its commitment to promoting the development of youth and the national game of football has joined hands with Oman Football Association (OFA) to make His Majesty’s Cup Football Championship a memorable experience for football enthusiasts in Oman.

Sayyid Khalid Al Busaidi, Chairman of Oman Football Association, and AbdulRazak Ali Issa, Chief Executive of Bank Muscat, signed an agreement endorsing the bank as presenting partner of His Majesty’s Cup, the quarterfinals of which begin on Wednesday with Bank Muscat as the official

QUARTERFINAL FIXTURES

March 11: Seeb vs Ahli-Sidab at Seeb Sports Stadium (5.30 pm), Al Nasr vs Al Khabourah at Al Saada Sports Complex (8 pm).

March 14: Sur vs Al Nahda at Sur Sports Complex (5.25 pm), Al Mudhaibi vs Al Arouba at Seeb Sports Stadium (8 pm).

April 8: Ahli-Sidab vs Seeb at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex (8.30 pm), Al Khabourah vs Al Nas at Sohar Sports Complex (5.45 pm), Al Nahda vs Sur at Al Buraimi Sports Complex (8.30 pm), Al Arouba vs Al Mudhaibi at Sur Sports Complex (5.35 pm).

partner for the tournament.

Sayyid Khalid Al Busaidi commented: “The OFA are honoured to be working with Oman’s leading bank. The partnership has begun on a high note of optimism with all involved keen to ensure that

the HM’s Cup is elevated to a new level of football excitement through Bank Muscat’s support. I convey my gratitude to the management and employees of Bank Muscat for their support to His Majesty’s Cup.” AbdulRazak Ali Issa said: “Bank

Muscat is delighted to partner with OFA in presenting His Majesty’s Cup Football Championship.

As the nation’s leading financial institution, Bank Muscat aims to support varied sporting activities to motivate and provide the required impetus for the country’s youth to excel in sports and games.

Bank Muscat wishes all the teams participating in the HM Cup good luck in lifting the game of football to new highs in Oman.”

Shabib Al Hosni, Oman Professional League CEO, who was in attendance at the signing ceremony said: “The HM’s Cup tournament is open to all Omani teams and the championship is a unique experience for the people of Oman.”

GOLF

Ram, Girish clinch Audi quattro Cup MUSCAT: The Oman round of the Audi quattro Cup was action packed and concluded with partners Ram Mohan (course handicap 27) and Girish Chawla (course Handicap 29) clinching the first place (team handicap 27.8 with 40 stableford points).

The Audi quattro Cup is the world’s premier competition for amateur golfers and 2015 is the fourth tournament hosted by Wattayah Motors in conjunction with the Oman Golf Committee (OGC).

Kevin D’Amours (course handicap 10) and Karen D’Amours (course handicap 25) won second place with a team handicap of 16 with 37 stableford points.

Third place went to William Welsh (course handicap 20) and Danny Renihan (course handicap 17), who had a team handicap of 18 with 36 stableford points.

During the prize-giving ceremony, Ahmed Shariefi, General Manager for Audi Oman, said: “On behalf of Wattayah Motors, it is my pleasure to congratulate the winning team for proving themselves as champion amateur golfers.

“The goal of the Audi quattro Cup here is to help raise the profile of golf in Oman and to recognise the finest golfers in Oman; and today, we have done just that.

“We are grateful to Almouj Golf

and the Oman Golf Committee for helping us organise the tournament and we wish Ram Mohan and Girish Chawla the best of luck for the World Final in Mexico later this year.”

The fourth edition of the tournament in Oman is part of the Audi quattro Cup competition series. Established in 1991, the Audi quattro Cup is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

WE DNE SDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

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TODAY’S MATCH POOL A: SRI LANKA V SCOTLAND (7:30AM OMAN TIME)

Nine on trot for Team India S TA N D I N G S POOL A

Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni reached a milestone of equalling

Teams *New Zealand *Australia *Bangladesh *Sri Lanka England Afghanistan Scotland

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T 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

N/R 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

Pts 10 7 7 6 2 2 0

Net RR +3.090 +1.597 +0.211 -0.151 -1.001 -1.881 -1.423

Clive Lloyd’s nine consecutive match wins in World Cups — second behind Australian Ricky Ponting’s 24

HAMILTON: Shikhar Dhawan hit an aggressive century as defending champions India recorded their fifth victory in a row at the World Cup with a thumping eightwicket win over Ireland in Hamilton on Tuesday.

Chasing a modest 260-run target, Dhawan notched his second century of the tournament with an 85-ball 100 as India lost only two wickets in only 36.5 overs on a batting-friendly Seddon Park pitch.

This latest victory meant India, yet to lose at this World Cup and already into the quarterfinals, were guaranteed to finish on top of Pool B ahead of their last group game against Zimbabwe in Auckland on Saturday.

Ireland, meanwhile, will likely need a win against Pakistan in their last Pool match in Adelaide on Sunday to reach the last eight.

“We have put in a lot of yards in the last few weeks. It is all about being fresh for Pakistan. If you can’t get up for these games you won’t be up for any,” said Ireland captain William Porterfield.

Pakistan, Ireland and South Africa, who all have six points in five matches, will vie with the West Indies (four points) for the three remaining quarterfinal spots on offer from Pool B. “Our bowlers are

*India South Africa Pakistan Ireland West Indies Zimbabwe UAE

100 runs from 85 balls 11 fours, 5 sixes

POOL B

West Indian great

SHIKHAR DHAWAN

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really doing the job for us, they’ve stepped up — not just the three fast bowlers, the spinners are complimenting them and when we’ve used part-timers they’ve done well,” said India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

Ireland’s Niall O’Brien scored a run-a-ball 75 while Porterfield made a solid 93-ball 67 in Ireland’s 259 all out in 49 overs. India proved their strength in batting yet again as Dhawan and Rohit Sharma (64) put on their team’s best World Cup opening stand of 174 against a struggling Irish attack.

Dhawan, who stroked 137 in the win over South Africa, completed his eighth one-day international hundred with a single off Kevin O’Brien to square leg. He reached three figures off just 84 balls.

But one ball later Dhawan fell to a loose shot off Stuart Thompson.

In all, Dhawan hit 11 fours and five sixes. Rohit was dismissed when he played on to Thompson after hitting three sixes and as many boundaries off 66 deliveries.

India’s previous best opening stand in a World Cup was the 163 shared by batting great Sachin Tendulkar and Ajay Jadeja against Kenya at Cuttack in 1996.

Virat Kohli (44 not out) and Ajinkya Rahane (33 not out) wrapped up the chase with a 70-run unbeaten stand for the third wicket

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to give Dhoni his ninth straight win in the World Cup, a run that started with the team’s march to the 2011 title on home soil.

Australia’s Ricky Ponting holds the record for the most consecutive World Cup wins as captain with 24, while Dhoni and Clive Lloyd, who led West Indies to victory in the first two editions in 1975 and 1979, have nine apiece.

Earlier, Ireland failed to capitalise on a good solid start.

Batting first after winning the toss, Ireland were 89 without loss in 15 overs, with Paul Stirling (42) giving good support to skipper Porterfield. Stirling hit four boundaries and two sixes during his 41-ball knock before holing out to off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who finished with two for 38.

Part-timer Suresh Raina bowled Ed Joyce for two before Porterfield and Niall O’Brien added a valuable 53 for the third wicket.

But once Porterfield fell, caught off paceman Mohit Sharma, Ireland slumped from 206 for three to 259 all out in 49 overs.

Mohammed Shami grabbed the key wicket of dangerman Kevin for only one run to finish with figures of three for 41.

Niall O’Brien completed his 14th ODI half-century with a six off Ashwin but fell to a soft dismissal off Shami when Ireland needed him to stay till the end.

Andy Balbirnie, one of Ireland’s most successful batsmen in the tournament, made 24 before he swept Ashwin straight to Shami at square-leg. - AFP

IRELAND W. Porterfield c Yadav b Sharma P. Stirling c Rahane b Ashwin E. Joyce b Raina N. O’Brien c Yadav b Shami A. Balbirnie c Shami b Ashwin K. O’Brien c Dhoni b Shami G. Wilson c Rahana b Jadeja S. Thompson run out J. Mooney not out G. Dockrell c Dhoni b Yadav A. Cusack c Yadav b Shami Extras: (lb-2, w-9) Total: (all out; 49 overs)

HAPPY BUNCH: Indian players celebrate a Ireland wicket during the match in Hamilton. – PTI

67 42 2 75 24 1 6 2 12 6 11 11 259

Fall of wickets: 1-89 (Stirling), 2-92 (Joyce), 3-145 (Porterfield), 4-206 (Balbirnie), 5-208 (Kevin O’Brien), 6-222 (Wilson), 7-226 (Niall O’Brien), 8-227 (Thompson), 9-238 (Dockrell), 10-259 (Cusack) Bowling: Yadav 4-0-34-1 (1w), Shami 9-0-41-3 (5w), Mohit Sharma 6-0-38-1 (3w), Jadeja 7-0-45-1, Ashwin 10-1-38-2, Raina 10-0-40-1, Rohit Sharma 3-0-21-0 INDIA R. Sharma b Thompson 64 S. Dhawan c Porterfield b Thompson 100 V. Kohli not out 44 A. Rahane not out 33

Extras: (b-4, lb-2, w-13) 19 Total: (for two wkts; 36.5 overs) 260 Fall of wickets: 1-174 (Rohit), 2-190 (Dhawan) Did not bat: S. Raina, M. Dhoni, A. Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Mohammad Shami, Mohit Sharma, U. Yadav Bowling: Mooney 6-0-44-0 (4w), Cusack 8-0-43-0 (1w), Thompson 6-0-45-2 (8w), Dockrell 5-0-44-0, Stirling 5-0-36-0, K. O’Brien 6.5-0-42-0 Result: India win by eight wickets Man of the match: Shikhar Dhawan Umpires: Dharmasena and Kettleborough Tv umpire: Johan Cloete (RSA) Match referee: Chris Broad (ENG)

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

Indian skipper hails rejuvenated Dhawan Dhoni insists his team will remain motivated in their last pool game against Zimbabwe in Auckland on Saturday despite it having no consequence for either side

HAMILTON: India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni saluted Shikhar Dhawan’s return to form after the opener smashed his second World Cup hundred in Tuesday’s eight-wicket win over Ireland.

Dhawan hit an 85-ball 100 with five sixes and 11 boundaries to anchor India’s 260-run chase in 36.5 overs at Seddon Park in Hamilton.

That gave India a fifth straight win to ensure top spot in Pool B and a quarterfinal match-up

against the fourth-placed finishers in Pool A, a position currently occupied by Bangladesh.

Dhawan, who also smashed 137 in the win over South Africa, had suffered a wretched bout of form at the tri-nations series leading up to the World Cup, scoring just two, one, eight and 38.

“It is important to back your players,” said Dhoni.

“We try to do it and I felt that though he had a tough series, I felt we had put a lot of effort into him.

“We always believed in him. But the final step that needs to be taken is from the individual, and I felt he prepared well for these ODIs, and it obviously takes time.”

Dhoni said Dhawan was capitalising on his good starts in the five World Cup matches where the defending champions have barely broken sweat. “Overall the difference I’ve seen in his batting is once he gets a start he sees it as an opportunity to turn that start into a big innings, and right from the first game that’s what he’s done.

“He’s not someone who is happy getting a 50. He knows that the team needs him to score big runs.

So once he gets to his 50, he hits the next milestone which is a hundred.”

Dhoni stressed all of his players need to contribute at the tournament.

HIGH ON CONFIDENCE: Mahen-

dra Singh Dhoni. – AFP

“I think the crucial part is for everybody to score runs to get wickets and to bowl well.

“Because ultimately in the knock-out stages you don’t really know who you may need, so it’s important that everybody gets a bit of confidence going,” said Dhoni.

Dhoni also praised key off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin who took 2-38 to check Ireland’s progress. “Ashwin is someone who I always love to have, the reason being I always push him to bowl in the power plays and even have used him whenever I’m in difficult situations. So he is really confident

about his bowling,” said Dhoni.

The Indian skipper insists his team will remain motivated in their last pool game against alreadyeliminated Zimbabwe in Auckland on Saturday despite it having no consequence for either side.

“We’re highly motivated. We have qualified for the next stage (before today), but still it was a challenge in itself because of the travelling issue that we had.

“A lot of boys didn’t get enough sleep before this game because of the time we landed and the travelling that we have to do.

“So every game pushes you to do something special. The next game will be the last before we get into the knock-out stages, so we’ll keep improving every game.”

Dhoni said the milestone of equalling West Indian great Clive Lloyd’s nine consecutive World Cup wins — second behind Australia’s Ricky Ponting’s 24 — doesn’t matter to him.

“The most important thing is winning the game for your country. It doesn’t really matter what the milestone is. Definitely it’s something that every player will be proud of.

“At the end of the day, we play a team sport, and everybody needs to enjoy it.” - AFP

A FT E R D E F E AT

Ireland rue lack of exposure HAMILTON: Skipper William Porterfield believes a lack of exposure against the bigger teams was hurting Ireland after they lost by eight wickets to defending World Cup champions India in Hamilton. The defeat leaves Ireland possibly needing to beat Pakistan in Adelaide on Sunday to make the last-eight while India ensured top spot in Pool B after a fifth successive win.

“I think exposure is a big thing,” said Porterfield, after his team’s second defeat with the first at the tournament coming against South Africa. “You probably heard me say it a thousand times, we’ve played nine ODIs against the top eight of the top ten teams in the last four years in between World Cups, which is not a lot when you consider a lot of countries are playing 25, 30 plus a year.

“So that’s disappointing from our point of view to not get that experience and get those games under our belts,” said Porterfield.

“I think the skill factor is also there. You have to give a bit of credit to Ashwin. We lost a couple of quick wickets and that slowed us down slightly. Every time we started to pick up a bit of momentum we managed to lose a wicket which kept us back from kicking on to what would have been a competitive total and that is disappointing.”

Porterfield admitted Ireland did not have the bowling attack to cut through the world’s best line-ups.

“Look, we don’t have the lads at the minute coming in bowling 90mph (135km/h), which a lot of sides do.”

Porterfield vowed his team will do their homework for their last match against Pakistan who are still to confirm their place in the quarterfinals. “We’ll take a look at things now moving on to Adelaide, we’re focused on each game as it comes and we’ll have everything behind the scenes ready and it’s just a matter of getting things right from there. — AFP

C O M M E N TA RY

India dare the world: bring them all on!

M

ahendra Singh Dhoni stood in the dressing room joking with the boys around him as Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane went about arrogantly notching up the runs India needed to get past the modest Irish total of 259 at Seddon Park. Normally, MS would sit on a chair, padded up, gently rocking his body perhaps to get himself into the sort of rhythm and mood he required to stride into the middle and get going — but he could switch himself into a more relaxed self yesterday, asking Ravindra Jadeja to stay ready for action if needed.

If the Dhoni moment doesn’t convey you a complete picture of the mood at the moment in the Indian camp, do a rewind and press the pause button at the right time to enjoy the fun unfolded in Hamilton. You don’t need to go right back to the very start — there was nothing at that stage of the game to give you any hint of what was to happen.

India had to wait for long — until the end of the 15th over — to break the opening partnership between Paul Stirling and William Porterfield, but even then, when Suresh Raina caught Stirling at long off off the bowling of R. Ashwin, Ireland were poised for a total very close to or beyond 300. The going was good for them until the 39th over, and with a healthy score of 200 for the loss of just three wickets in 38.2 overs, it looked as if the Indian bowlers’ lack of death over skills were set to be tested and embarrassingly exposed by Niall O’Brien, who was on 65 at that stage, but as they folded up in the 49th over, losing five wicket for 59 runs, the Irish chances on the flat wicket seemed not as bright as it looked mid-way through their innings.

The writing was on the wall for Ireland when Shikhar Dhawan was dropped twice: when he was on five and 10.

Dhawan’s record when he enjoyed such luck had always been unpleasant for his rivals, and that’s something both John Mooney and William Portfield (who dropped the chances) wouldn’t sweep to the corner of their mind for quite some time to come.

And when he departed in the 28th over soon after posting his second hundred, off just 85 balls, in this edition of the World Cup, India needed only 70 runs, with eight wickets in hand.

Kohli and Rahane were in a hurry to finish off the game, perhaps to get back to the hotel a bit early to beat the jet-lag or to catch up with the sleep lost in transit from Perth to Hamilton. That’s when Dhoni was in focus: relaxed, all smiles and chatting away without any care or concern for the outcome of the match and absolutely certain he wouldn’t need to pad up and walk out on to the middle.

Few would have expected Ireland to upset the Indian apple-cart, but we wanted to see how Indian bowlers would hold on to their new-found confidence and discipline on a not-as-fast, less-bouncy New Zealand pitch where boundaries are shorter. Dhoni seemed happy with the bowlers’ performance, especially the way spinners, even a part-timer like Raina, stepped in and put the spoke in the Irish wheel of fortune.

What came as another bit of pleasant surprise was the Indian skipper’s hint at his own confidence in the team and the way it has all been shaping up for team India.

MS was certain, right “from the fourth-fifth over”, that the pitch at Seddon Park offered nothing much for the Indian fast bowlers, but he pressed on with them until the ninth over, because he wanted to check how the guys coped with and adjusted to the challenge. Dhoni and India were in a position to afford such risks, and that’s pretty good about a team expected to struggle through the group stages.

Five in a row. One more to go before the plot thickens.

India will have to wait for a couple of days to get the full picture, to get to know for sure whether it’s going to be really Bangladesh —but on current form and confidence the message that everyone gets from the Indian camp is: bring them all — Australia, New Zealand or whoever you like — on!

The writer is a freelance contributor based in India. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman

LESSON LEARNT

Don’t litter a beautiful country like OMAN. Ensure proper disposal of garbage.

Returning Aamir urges young players not to ‘destroy’ lives RAWALPINDI: Former Pakistan pace prodigy Mohammed Aamir on Tuesday urged young players to be careful of the company they keep to avoid “destroying” their lives, as he prepared to make his return from a spot-fixing ban.

The 22-year-old was due to begin his first game back in domestic cricket on Monday but the first two days in the garrison town of Rawalpindi were cancelled due to a waterlogged pitch.

He urged young players to learn from his mistakes and concentrate on the game.

“If you want to achieve something in life you need to be very focused in your goals,” he said between fielding drills at the army cricket ground in Rawalpindi.

“In these five years I’ve learnt you need to make good friends in life, have good company, don’t destroy your life.”

Looking more muscular than when he last played competitively, Aamir said he had been working hard on his fitness and had not lost any of the zest that saw him become the youngest bowler, at just 18, to take 50 Test wickets.

“I haven’t played competitive cricket so far — when you play in the rhythm of a match you know what speeds you’re bowling at when you’re at a good ground wearing spikes,” he said. - AFP

WE DNE SDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

C5

Injury-hit Sri Lankans aim to tie up loose ends against Scotland The Islanders, who have won three of their five matches, will likely take third place in Pool A behind New Zealand and Australia should they win at the at the Bellerive Oval

HOBART: Sri Lanka will look to tie up some loose ends ahead of the World Cup quarterfinals when the former champions take on winless minnows Scotland in their last group match in Hobart on Wednesday.

The Islanders, who have won three of their five matches, will likely take third place in Pool A behind co-hosts New Zealand and Australia should they win at the at the Bellerive Oval.

Angelo Mathews’ side return to action just three days after going down to Australia by 64 runs in Sydney despite a heroic run chase led by remarkable veteran Kumar Sangakkara.

The 37-year-old left-hander smashed 104 to become the only batsman to score three successive centuries in a World Cup and is the leading run-scorer in this edition with 372 runs at an average of 124.

Opener Tillakaratne Dilshan, 38, is fifth in the list with 291 runs, but former skipper Mahela Jayawardene’s lean patch on either side of a match-winning century against Afghanistan will be worrying.

Jayawardene, 37, fell for zero in the tournament opener against New Zealand, did not get to bat against Bangladesh and England, before being run out for 19 against Australia.

Sri Lanka will need the three senior pros to fire if they are to repeat their 1996 triumph after losing the last two World Cup finals in 2007 and 2011.

The batsmen have so far made up for a wayward bowling attack which has leaked runs in the final overs to allow rivals to plunder big totals.

New Zealand took 134 runs from the last 14 overs, England garnered 148 from 15 and Australia smashed 200 in the last 16 overs. “We have got to improve our bowling and fielding,” said Mathews. “If we can keep the opposition to 300, we can chase it down.”

Sri Lanka, who have already seen all-rounder Jeevan Mendis and batsman Dimuth Karunaratne depart from the tournament due to injuries, suffered another blow on Tuesday when Dinesh Chandimal was ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Chandimal retired hurt after

AIMING TO IMPROVE: Sri Lankan players warm up during a training session at the Bellerive Oval ground ahead of their Pool A match against Scotland in Hobart. – AFP FA C T B O X

WAYWARD BOWLING: Former Sri Lanka fast bowler and current bowling coach Chaminda Vaas, left, speaks to Thisara Perera during a training session at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart on Wednesday. – AFP

making a 24-ball 52 against Australia and has been replaced by left-hand batsman Kusal Perera, who has played 41 one-day internationals and scored 839 runs with one century.

With a week to go before the

quarterfinals, Sri Lanka may look to rest tired limbs and test their bench strength against Scotland, who are lying at the bottom of the group with five defeats from as many matches.

Sri Lanka have played the non-

RULED OUT

Chandimal’s World Cup is over SYDNEY: Sri Lanka batsman Dinesh Chandimal has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup due to a hamstring injury and replaced in the squad by Kusal Perera, the tournament organisers said on Tuesday.

Chandimal was injured batting against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday and forced to retire hurt after making 52 runs from 38 balls as Sri Lanka

lost to the tournament co-hosts by 64 runs.

Lefthanded batsman Perera, who has scored 839 runs in 41 One-day Internationals (ODIs), is the fourth injury replacement in Sri Lanka’s 15-man squad since it was announced.

Batsman Dimuth Karunaratne fractured his finger and was replaced by leg spinner Seekkuge Prasanna last week.

Jeevan Mendis as well as fast bowler Dhammika Prasad have also returned home because of injuries.

Perera had already been called up as precautionary cover for Karunaratne.

But Prasanna was selected as the official replacement for the batsman as Rangana Herath was recovering from a cut to his spinning finger. - Reuters

Test side just once in a one-day international, winning easily by 183 runs in Edinburgh in July 2011, and another one-sided game appears likely.

Statistics reveal the wide gulf between the two sides.

SRI LANKA Captain: Angelo Mathews Coach: Marvan Atapattu Squad: Angelo Mathews, Tillakaratne Dilshan, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Kusal Perera, Lahiru Thirimanne, Thisara Perera, Upul Tharanga, Sachithra Senanayake, Rangana Herath, Lasith Malinga, Nuwan Kulasekara, Suranga Lakmal, Dushmantha Chameera, Seekkuge Prasanna Results so far at 2015 World Cup: Lost to New Zealand by 98 runs Beat Afghanistan by four wickets Beat Bangladesh by 92 runs Beat England by nine wickets Lost to Australia by 64 runs Top performers: Kumar Sangakkara (372 runs); Lasith Malinga (nine wickets) *** SCOTLAND Captain: Preston Mommsen

The combined ODI appearance total of the entire Scotland squad is 332 — 114 fewer matches than Jayawardene’s 446 ODIS, 70 below Sangakkara’s 402 and just 20 more than Dilshan’s 312.

Scotland have yet to win a match

Coach: Grant Bradburn Squad: Preston Mommsen, Richie Berrington, Kyle Coetzer, Freddie Coleman, Matthew Cross, Josh Davey, Alasdair Evans, Hamish Gardiner, Majid Haq, Michael Leask, Matt Machan, Calum MacLeod, Safyaan Sharif, Rob Taylor, Iain Wardlaw Results so far at 2015 World Cup: Lost to New Zealand by three wickets Lost to England by 119 runs Lost to Afghanistan by one wicket Lost to Bangladesh by six wickets Remaining Pool A match: March 14 v Australia, Hobart Best performers: Kyle Coetzer (253 runs); Josh Davey (11 wickets) *** Head-to-head: Sri Lanka beat Scotland by 183 runs in the only time the teams met, at Edinburgh on July 13, 2011.

in three World Cups, and with the International Cricket Council planning to reduce the number of teams involved from 14 to 10 in 2019, Wednesday’s fixture could be their last in the showpiece event. - AFP

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

Focus only on Scotland: Atapattu Marvan Atapattu insisted it was important to beat Scotland, who have lost all their four matches so far, before turning the attention towards the quarterfinals

HOBART: Sri Lanka coach Marvan Atapattu has promised full intensity for Wednesday’s World Cup match against Scotland even though his team have already qualified for the quarter-finals and their rivals are out of the race.

The Islanders, who have won three of their five matches, will likely take third place in Pool A behind co-hosts New Zealand and Australia if they win their last game at the Bellerive Oval.

But Atapattu insisted it was important to beat Scotland, who have lost all their four matches so far, before turning the attention towards the quarterfinals.

“The idea is to play our best cricket,” said Atapattu.

“That is how we want to play every match and it will be no different against Scotland. When you get on the pitch, you start a new game from scratch.”

Atapattu admitted the spate of injuries that has hit the squad during the tournament was not ideal preparation for the big games to come.

Sri Lanka, who had already lost all-rounder Jeevan Mendis and batsman Dimuth Karunaratne, suffered another blow on Tuesday when Dinesh Chandimal was ruled out with a hamstring injury.

Chandimal retired hurt after making a 24-ball 52 against Aus-

WARMING UP: A support staff helps Sri Lanka cricketer Lasith Malinga to stretch his muscles during a training session at the Bellerive Oval ground ahead of the 2015 Cricket World Cup Pool A match against Scotland. – AFP

tralia on Sunday and has been replaced by left-hand batsman Kusal Perera, who has played 41 one-day internationals and scored 839 runs with one century.

Moreover, both left-arm spinner Rangana Herath and opener Lahiru Thirimanne are nursing finger injuries. Atapattu said Thirimanne will not take the field on Wednesday to give him time to recover before the quarter-final against an yet undecided opponent in Sydney on March 18.

“No team likes to be burdened with injuries, so obviously it is not a good situation to be in,” the coach said. “But hopefully the others who are there will deliver.

“Every fit player is in the mix to play but we have not taken a call on whom to leave out.”

Atapattu said he was not concerned by the inability of his bowlers to contain the flow of runs in

the final overs which has set up big totals for the rivals.

New Zealand took 134 runs from the last 14 overs, England garnered 148 from 15 and Australia smashed 200 in the last 16 overs.

“I think it is not only us, but other sides too have faced the same problem,” he said. “Even the Australians, who I think have one of the best attacks have suffered.

“If you have wickets in hand in the power-play, its amazing how much a team can score with the field restrictions.

“From the 36th over, it is almost like a Twenty20 slog.

“But having said that, it’s about working to a plan and executing your skills. It does not guarantee that you won’t go for six runs an over, but that is your best chance.

“We will obviously need to keep this in mind in the matches to come.” - AFP

Scotland prepare for Malinga with Collingwood throwdowns HOBART: Scotland hope to tackle Sri Lanka’s sling-arm fast bowler Lasith Malinga in the World Cup on Wednesday by practising with Paul Collingwood’s throwdowns at the nets, according to captain Preston Mommsen.

Former England all-rounder Collingwood, who is working with the non-Test side at the tournament, gave the Scottish batsmen a taste of what to expect by simulating Malinga’s unique action at training.

“We’ve got Colly with us who has played a lot of cricket against Malinga,” Mommsen

said ahead of the Pool A fixture at Hobart’s Bellerive Oval.

“He has worked out his action and throws to us at the nets as if Malinga was bowling.

“So that way we have been able to simulate Malinga’s action. Obviously, it’s something different and something that we’ve done some fair preparation on, but we’re expecting to take our time against him.”

Mommsen said the team was excited at the two upcoming games in Hobart — against Sri Lanka on Wednesday and Australia on Saturday — which gives them a chance to

play against established Test nations. “We don’t get the opportunity to play against Full Members (of the International Cricket Council) very often, so to have two in the space of a few days is something very exciting for all of us,” he said.

“Obviously, results-wise it has not been the most perfect World Cup for us, but we’ve got two great opportunities and that’s the way we’re looking at it.”

Mommsen said Bangladesh’s stunning win over England, which knocked Eoin Morgan’s side out of the tournament, would inspire his team. - AFP

UPSET

Exit shines light on England’s ODI woes SYDNEY: “We thought 275 was chaseable. We shall have to look at the data.” With those words, uttered following a defeat by Bangladesh in Adelaide on Monday that knocked England out of the World Cup, Peter Moores appeared to write his own epitaph for his second spell as coach of the national side.

It did not require great statistical analysis to understand why England had gone down by 15 runs to Bangladesh — long regarded as the whipping boys of international cricket but now victorious over England at two successive World Cups.

The simple truth is England were yet again out-batted and out-bowled. But Moores’s words appeared emblematic of an inflexible England set-up, where too many players were unable to think on their feet.

How the tournament was setup, with four teams from each of the two pools of seven going through to the quarterfinals, ought to have made it all but impossible for a leading team to fail to reach the last eight. “We would have to have an absolute stinker not to make the quarterfinals,” said England paceman Stuart Broad back in January.

And that is what England had.

Monday’s loss followed crushing defeats by Australia (111

runs), New Zealand (eight wickets) and Sri Lanka (nine wickets) and meant there was no way England could go through to the knockout phase.

Their only win of the tournament so far has been against Scotland, a non-Test side.

‘Wrong team’ Yet England’s latest World Cup exit — far worse than the previous nadir of 1999 when the then hosts crashed out in the first round on net run-rate even before the tournament theme song had been released — was no great surprise.

“Eng had the wrong team, the wrong style of play & everyone could see it, tonight’s result not a shock,” tweeted Australia great Shane Warne and it was hard to disagree, with their inherently cautious approach in marked contrast to that of leading one-day teams.

Even though it pioneered the staging of one-day and Twenty20 games on a professional basis, there has long been a snobbery about the limited overs format in England, with many cricket lovers insisting it’s not the real deal.

Yet there need not be a contradiction between Test and one-day success — Australia had plenty of both while winning three consecutive World Cups from 1999-2007. — AFP

WE DNE SDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

C7

HE IS BEST

Bailey wouldn’t swap Starc for Steyn or Morkel

HAPPY TO BE IN EACH OTHERS COMPANY: Pakistan fan Mohammed Bashir, left, and India’s ‘super fan’ Sudhir Kumar cheering together for India at the Seddon Park in Hamilton on Tuesday. – AFP

Swami Army sweeps up Pakistani recruit Pakistan cricket fan Mohammed Bashir and Indian ‘super fan’ Sudhir Kumar have become thick friends

HAMILTON: Three heart attacks haven’t stopped Pakistan cricket fan Mohammed Bashir from following his team around the world.

And if they are not in action, the Chicago-based Bashir, 62, is more than happy to watch arch-rivals India. The proof came in the usually sedate surroundings of Hamilton’s Seddon Park, transformed into a riot of colour and noise by India’s Swami Army of supporters for the reigning champions World Cup Pool B match against Ireland

on Tuesday. Mohammed Bashir, who has become a friend of India ‘super fan’ Sudhir Kumar Chaudhary, is a huge admirer of India batting great Sachin Tendulkar.

“I love you Dhoni,” shouted Bashir. “Dhoni is my heart and I hope his team reached the final and play against Pakistan.”

Bashir said he had no problems supporting India when not watching a Pakistan match.

“My wife Rafia is from Hyderabad Deccan, India. I love Dhoni. He is my hero.

“I have joined Indian supporters for this match and hope I support both the teams (India and Pakistan) when they play the final.”

Chaudhary, wearing a number ten shirt in honour of Tendulkar, said he was excited to be in New Zealand.

“It’s a wonderful country blessed with nature and I am enjoying the tour with India looking so solid in their title defence,” said Chaudhary, who has reportedly cycled over 15,000 miles to

watch India play at various cities at home, Bangladesh and Lahore in Pakistan.

Wearing their team’s blue kit and holding the tri-colour national flag, the Swami Army were out in force. The green, orange and white flags flew in large parts of the stadium, while fans were also displaying “won’t give it back” placards, referring to the World Cup trophy which India won on home soil four years ago.

Some people brought traditional Dhol drums, banging them to the screams of “Jeetay ga bhai jeetay ga, India jeetay ga (India will win) from the stands in a festive atmosphere.

“I have brought a group of around 550 fans from various parts of India and its a two-in-one pack for me as I earn as well as watch the match on tour,” said Manas Kolay, who had travelled from the holiday resort of Goa. Arun Goyal lives in Hamilton and any cricket match involving India brings back memories of his

native country. “I come to watch this match to remember India,” said Goyal, born and brought up in Mumbai. It’s an atmosphere which reminds me of the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

“I miss my country but for the last two days I am hosting some friends from Mumbai and cricket has given me some relief.”

A handful of Irish fans were also at Seddon Park, cheering on the non-Test side, who still have a shot at the quarterfinals but were not expected to beat India.

But don’t tell that to Ireland supporter Anthea Graham.

“I am following Ireland from Nelson to Hamilton,” she said. “My team is the best in the world and they will beat India to go into the quarterfinals.

“From here me and my husband will go to Adelaide and remind Pakistan how good we are as a team, having beaten them before,” Graham added, referring to Ireland’s shock win over Pakistan in the 2007 World Cup in the Caribbean. - AFP

HOBART: Dale Steyn? Morne Morkel? Well as far as George Bailey is concerned, right now Australia’s Mitchell Starc is more feared than either of the South Africa quicks.

Bailey, previously Australia’s one-day captain, has largely been reduced to the role of a spectator at this World Cup, with his only appearance coming in the team’s tournament opener against England before he was eased aside to let fit-again skipper Michael Clarke return to the team.

But he has been on hand while left-arm fast bowler Starc has taken 12 wickets at a miserly average of just over 10 apiece in four matches at the World Cup. Only the New Zealand pair of Trent Boult and Tim Southee have taken more wickets (13 each) and they’ve both played one match more than Starc.

Meanwhile Morkel has 11 wickets for the tournament and Steyn, surprisingly for a bowler of his class, a mere eight so far.

“I would say he’s more feared,” Bailey said Tuesday when asked

if Starc was now in the same bracket as Steyn and Morkel.

“He’s got some really specific skills at the death that very few guys in the world are able to produce. That would be weighing on teams’ minds,” he added, with Starc’s stunning six for 28 against New Zealand almost setting up an improbable victory before Australia lost by one wicket in Auckland. Bailey added that the 25-year-old Starc, together with the likes of fellow pacemen James Faulkner and Pat Cummins had the ability to staunch the flow of runs when sides were looking to ‘launch’ in the final 15 overs.

“Teams have basically been trying to get through to that batting power play, about the 35th over, with as many wickets in hand as they can, and then launch,” he said.

“As a bowling team the best way to negate that is to try and get a team five or six down by the time you get to that 35th over mark and it makes it really hard for the batting team to know when to launch.” - AFP

I would say Michael Starc is feared the most now. He’s got some really specific skills at the death that very few guys in the world are able to produce.

George Bailey Australia

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W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

Punchbag Misbah rises above trouble

NO GIVING UP

In his five years in charge, 40-year-old Misbah has become Pakistan’s most successful Test captain. In One-day Internationals, he has overseen victories over arch-rivals India — in India — and South Africa on

Hobbling Mortaza inspires Bangladesh’s big dream ADELAIDE: He is barely able to run without a grimace, wears a brace to hold up his creaking knees and walks gingerly between overs, but Mashrafe Mortaza refuses to give up on Bangladesh at the World Cup The 31-year-old captain and pace spearhead has led from the front as the Tigers celebrated their greatest World Cup moment — a place in the quarterfinals for the first time after Monday night’s 15run win over England in Adelaide.

The only other time Bangladesh went beyond the first round was in 2007 in the Caribbean, but that was into the round-robin Super Eights following a remarkable win over India in the league stage.

It will probably be defending champions India again that Bangladesh meet in the quarterfinal at the gigantic Melbourne Cricket Ground on March 19, and Mortaza will eagerly await the challenge ahead.

It was his four-wicket haul at Port of Spain that sent India crashing out in 2007, reserving his best against a star-studded side that included captain Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag.

Mortaza was forced to miss the last World Cup, co-hosted by

Bangladesh along with India and Sri Lanka, due to a knee injury — one of the many he has endured in his 14-year-career.

Mortaza has missed more matches than he has played due to various leg, knee and ankle injuries. At the last count, he has been sidelined 11 times due to injuries and undergone surgery seven times over the last decade.

He has modified his bowling action to lessen the burden on his legs, but the desperation to play and do well for Bangladesh means he has been unable to rest his body for long periods.

“You have to bear the pain if you want to perform for your country,” said Mortaza. “But the pain goes away when you do well and the team wins...like against England.”

Bowling in short spells, Mortaza claimed the wickets of Alex Hales and Joe Root, both caught behind, to support the four-wicket haul by Rubel Hossain and two more by fellow-seamer Taskin Ahmed.

Mortaza, annoyed by comments in the past that Bangladesh were more dependent on spinners than their new-ball bowlers, said his seamers had not got the respect they deserved.

“Hopefully opinions will change now,” said the captain, who has

take six wickets in the tournament, including three in the first match against Afghanistan.

Mohammed Mahmudullah, who on Monday became the first Bangladesh batsman to score a World Cup century, said Mortaza was an inspiration for the entire team.

“How many players have fought back from injuries like he has.... not once but several times?” Mahmudullah asked. “His self-belief rubs off on all of us.”

Bangladesh fly across the Tasman Sea later on Tuesday to prepare for their last league match against co-hosts New Zealand in Hamilton on Friday.

“It will obviously be a tough game because New Zealand are playing at home, but we will be ready for the challenge. We need to keep the momentum going.”

Mortaza will need to ensure the over-rate does not lag on Friday, otherwise he will be in danger of missing the quarter-final.

Bangladesh were two overs short against England and fined -Mortaza 40 per cent of his match fee and his players 20 per cent each -- and another such offence will invite a one-match suspension for the captain.

It’s a forced rest the injuryprone Mortaza can do without. - AFP

their home turf

AUCKLAND: What’s the toughest job in sport? Managing the Brazil or England football team or coaching England’s cricket squad, for that matter?

For Pakistan’s Misbah-ul-Haq, the answer is simple — it’s his position as captain of a team already dubbed “predictably unpredictable” by a rival coach at the World Cup. As well as two heavy defeats in their opening games in Australia and New Zealand, eight Pakistan players were fined for breaking a curfew, there were claims of a training ground bust-up while chief selector Moin Khan was sent home for visiting a Christchurch casino.

Then there are the team’s millions of demanding fans back home. Frustrated by the absence of international cricket in the country because of the 2009 attack on the touring Sri Lanka team, and then embarrassed by the jailing in England of three players for corruption in 2011, the captain is the punchbag of the Pakistan team.

But in his five years in charge, 40-year-old Misbah has become Pakistan’s most successful Test captain. In One-day Internationals, he has overseen victories over arch-rivals India — in India — and South Africa on their home turf.

But if he scores runs and the team fails, he is the go-to target.

If he doesn’t score and the team does well he is still the target.

When Pakistan lost their opening games at the World Cup to India and West Indies, effigies of Misbah were burned in Lahore while, in the south-eastern city of Multan, a mock funeral was held for the team.

“It’s one of the top five toughest jobs in the sporting world,” Misbah told AFP. “There are lots of expectations and when they are not fulfilled you get criticised, at times unnecessarily.

“Every other day you suffer and it has a negative effect on the team as players get hurt, their families are affected and the team’s focus is distracted.”

Captaining the Pakistan cricket team has always appeared to be mission impossible.

When Javed Miandad was appointed captain in 1980 he faced a revolt from senior players who complained they had been overlooked. The same fate befell Wasim Akram in 1994.

Even Imran Khan, born in the same Punjab city of Mianwali as Misbah, was forced to leave after leading Pakistan to their one and only World Cup title in 1992.

In 1998, Aamer Sohail didn’t even turn up on the morning of a Test after differences with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Saeed Anwar was replaced as

TOUGH JOB: If Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul Haq scores runs and the team fails, he is the go-to target. If he doesn’t score and the team does well he is still the target.

captain mid-way through a series two years later.

Toughest period The pre-World Cup period was the toughest for Misbah, as his form slumped so badly that he withdrew from the third one-day international against Australia last October.

Despite the PCB’s support —announcing him captain until the World Cup — there were doubts over whether or not Misbah would lead Pakistan at the tournament.

“That was the toughest period of all,” recalled Misbah. “I wasn’t scoring runs and then I got injured.”

Misbah’s position was threatened by the more popular Shahid Afridi, who he had replaced as one-day captain in 2011, a year after his appointment as Test skipper in the post spot-fixing saga.

That calamitous episode, on Pakistan’s tour of England in 2010, saw Test captain Salman Butt and pace bowlers Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer banned for five years. All were jailed. “I have always tried to avoid con-

flicts. After the spot-fixing fiasco, we needed stability and to avoid controversies. Obviously every player has his own mindset and a captain needs to be flexible to deal with that,” Misbah told AFP. “We needed solutions rather than leaving things unresolved and making them more complicated. My cool nature helped me otherwise it was tough to survive just for two days.”

Apart from Misbah’s captaincy style, his slow batting in one-dayers once earned him the mocking nickname of “tuk-tuk” -- (the Urdu phrase for the sound made when the ball comes off the bat when a defensive stroke is played).

“I needed to stay at the wicket so I didn’t play to my strengths.

Whenever I went in to bat the team was under pressure,” said Misbah.

The perception of Misbah as a pragmatic batsman was shattered with his 56-ball hundred in a Test against Australia in October — equalling the record for the fastest hundred. - AFP

C

SECTION

LIFE & STYLE

A CITY C OF RELICS RINGED WITH TEA Kandy in Sri Lanka presents British and Buddhist history

harles Carmichael’s grandson knows all the gravestones off by heart. There was John Spottiswood Robertson, killed by an elephant, and William Watson Mackwood, who fell off his horse on to a stake. Not forgetting Captain James McGlashan, veteran of the battle of Waterloo, who died after a long walk in the rain, accepting his end “with manly fortitude”. Never mind that the lettering on the stones is almost indecipherably faded, he can recite them all, along with cause of death.

But Carmichael’s grandson, the assistant caretaker at the Garrison Cemetery in Kandy, did struggle with those very British names: the likes of Spottiswood and McGlashan are tricky for mother-tongue Sinhalese. For despite his grandfather’s lineage, and his duty to tend this very British graveyard, Harsha is as Sri Lankan as they come.

This year it is exactly 200 years since the British established complete control over the island they called Ceylon, marching into Kandy – the last stronghold of the Sinhalese Kings – in 1815. In the years that followed, many died from so-called “jungle fever” – usually malaria – but many also made their fortunes here. Unsurprisingly, the Sri Lankans will not be celebrating the 200th anniversary, but when I asked him for his opinion, Harsha was pragmatic about the longterm impact of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. The British, he said, had brought schools, railways, roads, cricket and industry, among other things.

Their legacy in tourism terms is considerable,

too. Modern Sri Lanka speaks English, drinks tea, and has preserved its colonial architecture.

Few places feel the British influence more than Kandy, the last place to fall on 10 March 1815.

As a result Sri Lanka’s city in the hills, which still has rainforest and a lake at its heart, has a split personality. Many of Sri Lanka’s ruling elite maintain wallawwas, or traditional mansions, here. Kandy hosts the country’s most important temple, the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (the dental relic being one of the Buddha’s teeth), as well as its most significant festival, Esala Perahera, which venerates the relic. But it is also a place where the British really made their mark.

I came up to Kandy by a rather easier Britishbuilt method than those foot soldiers did two centuries ago. The train from Colombo takes about three hours, and for much of the second half the track wriggles around on a high shelf cloaked in rainforest, a huge drop down to terraced paddy fields and distant plains on one side. It is one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world.

My city tour was equally eye-catching, courtesy of a British-built 1948 Ford Prefect driven by Lal, in splendid white uniform and chauffeur’s cap. It wheezed and grunted, but Lal seemed to sail it rather than steer it. He had no mirrors and never bothered to look behind, despite an onslaught of traffic on all sides.

We started at the Botanical Gardens, established by the British in 1821, on a bend in the

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W ED N ES DAY, M A R C H 1 1 , 2 0 1 5

Mahaweli river. A huge inventory of trees here, from all around the world, showed just how fertile these uplands are. Over the years, royals and heads of state have left their calling cards in tree form.

This was also where planter James Taylor first experimented with what was to transform the surrounding country: tea. The industry now dominates the highlands, and the bush he planted is still there, unkempt and standing some 20ft tall. Couples come to the Botanical Gardens to hold hands in the shade and then return, as newlyweds, for photo-sessions amid the orchids.

Back in the heart of town, I visited the Temple of the Tooth, now heavily defended since a truck bomb by the Tamil Tigers back in 1998.

The British were a little more respectful when they arrived in 1815, although they did build a church right next door. Governor Sir Edward Barnes also banned the Esala Perahera, when the Tooth Relic is paraded on elephant-back.

The result was the worst drought the country has ever faced; when Barnes eventually relented, it rained non-stop for seven days.

I read about all this over lunch in the Queens Hotel, the Governor’s old residence in pole position on the lakeside, which was converted into a hotel for a royal visit in 1954. A pianist tinkled away in the foyer, and in the high-ceilinged Queen of Hearts (Diana, of course) restaurant the lunch was a fragrant buffet of rice and various curries, for £5 a head. It seemed this synthesis of two cultures has worked out surprisingly well. -Andrew Eames/The Independent

C10

W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you have been endowed with the ability to please — but that doesn’t mean, of course, that you will spend your life doing for others while sacrificing your own needs and desires. On the contrary, the fact that you know how to give others what they want can actually serve you quite well.

You can tap into your own natural talents to provide yourself with fulfillment and others with a kind of enjoyment that only you can provide. You truly enjoy doing things for others; at the same time, you thrive on developing your own abilities to the fullest and exploring the many opportunities they may reveal to you.

As with many Pisces natives, there is much about you that others do not know. You seem, at times, to be wearing a kind of mask that presents the best possible visage to the world at large while concealing the real you. Only those in your inner circle — a very select few — can claim to know you inside and out.

Also born on this date are: Terrence Howard, actor; Lawrence Welk, bandleader and television personality; Rupert Murdoch, media mogul; Bobby McFerrin, vocalist; Sam Donaldson, journalist.

W E AT H E R

H

WORLD

Max 30 Min 19 Max 11 Min 1

Max 24 Min 12

Max 29 Min 20 Max 2 Min -8

Max 25 Min 20

Max 9 Min 3

Max 30 Min 16

Max 31 Min 18

Max 31 Min 19

PISCES

Max 30 Min 18

[Feb. 19-March 20]

Not everything can be taken at face value, of course, but that which can will certainly give you a solid footing.

TAURUS [APRIL 20-MAY 20] Your instincts tell you one thing while the facts tell you something else. The truth, of course, is likely a combination of the two.

GEMINI [MAY 21-JUNE 20] You may be trying too hard to please others. In the end, what really matters is that you are recognised for your honest intentions.

CANCER [JUNE 21-JULY 22] He or she who criticises you for something over which you have little or no control will soon be trapped in the same way — by you, perhaps.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] Focus on that which has a clear beginning, middle and end. You don’t want to deal in that which is vague, cloudy or uncertain.

Max 28 Min 24

Max 21 Min 14

Max 31 Min 23 Max 27 Min 22

—www.met.gov.om

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI) QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

25 28 25 24 25 28

18 15 17 14 17 9

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

14 25 11 8 10 22 33 10 17 9 27 32 19 13 33 30 12 6

9 9 -4 0 -2 12 24 0 14 5 14 24 10 6 19 24 4 -2

[AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] You may have more to look forward to than you had originally thought.

Circumstances develop that favour your intentions.

LIBRA L [[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] It’s a good day to spend with family members, doing things you have long planned to do, or doing nothing at all.

TO MUSCAT (RUWI)

Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00

VIRGO

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

LISTINGS

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You’re going to have to put your trust in another in such a way that requires more from you than just patience. This will all work out.

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] You may be able to start and finish something rather important all at once. Much depends on timing and proper positioning.

CAPRICORN [DEC. 22-JAN 19] Once you find the exact spot, you’ll realise that you have power and influence. What does this mean exactly? You have always known!

AQUARIUS [JAN. 20-FEB. 18] Do you have something in mind that can be easily comprehended by others, or something that is rather mystifying? Each has its value.

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow)

6.14pm 6.20am

High tide Low tide

11:58pm 6:44am

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24783334; Appolo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24782666; Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi: 24702542, Salalah: 23291635; Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra: 24503585; Ruwi 24811715 Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya. Tel: 24787766 Muscat, A Seeb Market. Tel: 24421691 Muscat, Al Khuwair. Tel: 24485740 Muscat, Al Hail South. Tel: 24537080 Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah.

Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

WEDNESDAY

Min

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

[March 21-APRIL 19]

12.22pm 3.46pm 6.19pm 7.29pm 5.05am

12:16pm 6:01pm

maximum wave height of 1.25 metres.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Moderate over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during rain.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Partly cloudy skies over governorates of Musandam, Buraimi, Al Dhahirah, northern and southern Al Batinah, Muscat, Al Dakhiliyah, northern and southern Al Sharqiyah with chances of rain occasionally thundershowers associated with fresh down draft winds and hail. Rough sea over Musandam governorate and Oman Sea coast.

Max

OMAN

ARIES

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

AIRLINES

azy weather over most of the Sultanate with chances of convective clouds development with isolated rain over Al Hajar mountains and Musandam governorate toward afternoon. Chance of low level clouds development or fog patches during late night early morning along the coastal areas of Arabian Sea. EXPECTED WINDS: Over most of the Sultanate winds will be southeasterly to easterly light to moderate.

SEA STATE: Moderate along Oman Sea coast with maximum wave height of 2.0 metres. Slight along rest of the coast with

Max 32 Min 17

You’re likely to win praise for something that may have started quite by accident. Still, you know how to ride a wave.

PRAYER TIMINGS

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

THURSDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

ABU DHABI 0005 CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 SALALAH 0125 LAHORE 0215 ISTANBUL-BAHRAIN 0255 DOHA 0345 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 JEDDAH 0645 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 RIYADH 0700 MALPENSA 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 PARIS 0800 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 TEHRAN 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 LAHORE 0920 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 DUBAI 0940 MADRAS 0940 BANGALORE 1000 COCHIN 1010 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1020 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUQUM OMAN 1035 DUBAI 1110 KHASAB 1115 RAS AL KHAIMA 1120 BAHRAIN 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 MALE 1205 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 LAHORE 1215 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 KARACHI 1355 SALALAH 1445 KHASAB 1445 ABU DHABI 1530 DUBAI 1555 ISLAM ABBAD 1625 MUKHAIZNA 1630 BAHRAIN 1630 TRIVANDRUM 1705 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 JAIPUR 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 DOHA 1745 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 DUBAI 1945 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 JAKARTA 2055 MUNICH 2105 BANGALORE-HYDERABAD 2105 MALE 2110 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 SALALAH 2205 DOHA 2210 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AMMAN 2255 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350

WY406 WY682 WY676 WY636 WY648 WY816 WY910 BG021 WY916 PK225 TK774 QR1132 ET624 EK866 GF560 EY384 PK291 FZ041 MS930 WY114 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY678 WY686 WY412 WY144 WY154 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY602 WY202 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY242 WY236 WY226 WY346 WY252 WY212 EK862 QR1128 IX443 EY382 9W530 WY604 WY844 WY918 GF562 WY424 WY372 FZ037 IX337 WY904 WY716 WY324 WY3302 WY818 WY606 BG023 IX817 WY920 WY906 PK229 WY3922 WY632 SV530 FZ045 WY328 WY656 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY3304 WY610 WY264 WY284 WY232 WY274 QR1126 EK864 WY3932 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 TG507 WY434 FZ047 WY664 WY338 WY614 WY124 4H561 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 WY374 FZ049 AI907 QR1134 WY914 UL205 GF566 BA073 EY388 SG061 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696 WY717

CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 ABU DHABI 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 DACCA-CHITTAGONG 0100 SALALAH 0125 KARACHI 0210 ISTANBUL 0215 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 ISLAM ABBAD 0410 DUBAI 0415 CAIRO 0430 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 MEDINA 0700 RIYADH 0700 AMMAN 0705 MALPENSA 0720 ZURICH 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 ISLAM ABBAD 0930 MADRAS 0940 TRIVANDRUM 0940 DUBAI 0940 DOHA 1010 COCHIN 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUBAI 1110 MANILA 1110 KHASAB 1115 BAHRAIN 1130 BEIRUT 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 ZANZIBAR 1225 KARACHI 1230 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 CHITTAGONG 1345 MANGALORE-ABU DHABI 1440 KHASAB 1445 SALALAH 1445 LAHORE 1500 DUQUM OMAN 1520 ABU DHABI 1540 JEDDAH 1550 DUBAI 1555 LAHORE 1600 BAHRAIN 1630 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 MUKHAIZNA 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 BANGALORE 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 JAIPUR 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 SOHAR 1805 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1935 TEHRAN 1940 DUBAI 1945 DOHA 1955 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 MUNICH 2105 DACCA 2115 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 COLOMBO 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 DOHA 2210 SALALAH 2215 COLOMBO 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AHMEDABAD 2300 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2355

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 LH619 WY685 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY601 WY341 WY281 WY431 WY241 WY643 WY821 WY657 WY637 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY383 WY901 WY847 PK230 TK777 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 WY3921 GF561 4H562 WY903 WY603 WY3301 WY917 WY215 WY263 WY323 WY291 WY347 NL769 FZ044 WY385 WY245 WY231 WY843 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY905 WY605 WY203 WY253 WY337 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX554 QR1129 IX442 9W533 WY919 WY655 G9842 GF563 WY631 WY3303 IX350 PA451 FZ038 WY663 WY113 WY101 WY153 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY609 WY405 WY413 WY675 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY647 WY661 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 FZ048 WY635 WY915 AI978 FZ050 KL442 WY817 WY411 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 WY677 QR1135 GF567 WY673 EY381

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 MADRAS 0110 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 DUBAI 0150 LAHORE 0150 BANGALORE 0150 TEHRAN 0155 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 ABU DHABI 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 MALE 0235 SALALAH 0240 JAKARTA 0245 LAHORE 0315 BAHRAIN-ISTANBUL 0350 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 DUQUM OMAN 0740 BAHRAIN 0745 DACCA 0745 SALALAH 0800 DUBAI 0800 MUKHAIZNA 0800 KHASAB 0815 TRIVANDRUM 0845 LUCKNOW 0920 KARACHI 0920 CALICUT 0920 ISLAM ABBAD 0920 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 MALE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 MANILA 1000 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 SALALAH 1030 DUBAI 1030 BOMBAY 1030 MADRAS 1040 KATHMANDU 1040 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 TRIVANDRUM 1110 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 RAS AL KHAIMA 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 ABU DHABI 1220 MUKHAIZNA 1300 CALICUT 1310 LAHORE 1315 DUBAI 1315 DOHA 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 ZURICH 1405 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 AMMAN 1455 JEDDAH 1630 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1800 DUBAI 1820 DOHA 1845 RIYADH 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 KUWAIT 1900 DOHA 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2040 ABU DHABI 2040 SALALAH 2110 HYDERABAD-BANGALORE 2200 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 AMMAN 2240 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 DELHI 2310 MEDINA 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 JEDDAH 2350 ABU DHABI 2350

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 WY715 LH619 WY685 WY211 WY251 WY423 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY345 WY601 WY241 WY643 WY637 WY657 WY821 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY901 BG022 PK226 TK775 ET625 EK867 FZ042 PK292 QR1133 EY385 MS931 GF561 WY903 WY323 WY603 WY917 WY3301 WY291 WY263 NL769 WY327 FZ044 WY283 WY245 WY231 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY203 WY605 WY905 WY337 WY373 WY253 WY717 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX442 QR1129 9W533 WY919 WY655 GF563 WY3921 WY631 IX350 FZ038 WY3303 WY433 WY113 WY101 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY131 WY609 WY405 BG024 IX818 WY663 WY3931 PK230 WY675 SV531 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 WY681 QR1127 WY907 GF565 WY661 WY647 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 WY635 FZ048 TG508 WY915 4H561 FZ050 KL442 WY817 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 WY677 AI974 QR1135 GF567 UL206 EY381 WY673

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ZANZIBAR 0040 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 TRIVANDRUM 0110 MADRAS 0110 BEIRUT 0115 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 ISLAM ABBAD 0150 DUBAI 0150 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 ABU DHABI 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 SALALAH 0240 CHITTAGONG-DACCA 0250 KARACHI 0310 ISTANBUL 0315 ADDIS ABABA 0450 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 ISLAM ABBAD 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 CAIRO 0530 BAHRAIN 0745 SALALAH 0800 KARACHI 0800 DUBAI 0800 KHASAB 0815 MUKHAIZNA 0830 CALICUT 0920 LUCKNOW 0920 LAHORE 0930 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 BANGALORE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 BOMBAY 1030 DUBAI 1030 SALALAH 1030 KATHMANDU 1040 COLOMBO 1040 MADRAS 1040 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 1045 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 COCHIN 1115 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 DUQUM OMAN 1220 ABU DHABI 1230 CALICUT 1310 DUBAI 1315 MUKHAIZNA 1330 TEHRAN 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 PARIS 1420 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 CHITTAGONG 1500 MANGALORE 1530 DOHA 1540 SOHAR 1600 LAHORE 1600 JEDDAH 1630 MEDINA-JEDDAH 1650 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1810 DUBAI 1820 RIYADH 1845 DOHA 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 DOHA 1900 KUWAIT 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 ABU DHABI 2040 DUBAI 2040 KARACHI-BANGKOK 2040 SALALAH 2110 JEDDAH 2215 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 MEDINA 2310 DELHI 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 COLOMBO 2335 ABU DHABI 2350 JEDDAH 2350

FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

WY636 WY406 WY682 WY676 WY648 WY816 WY910 WY916 PK229 TK776 QR1132 EK866 GF560 EY384 FZ041 WY114 WY658 4H562 WY638 WY902 WY686 WY144 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY132 WY602 WY202 WY432 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY342 WY242 WY236 WY226 EK862 WY252 WY282 IX443 QR1128 EY382 IX549 9W530 WY3922 WY604 WY918 G9841 GF562 WY372 FZ037 WY384 IX337 WY904 PA450 WY3302 WY818 WY606 WY324 WY906 WY920 WY632 FZ045 WY348 WY3304 WY656 WY216 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY610 WY264 WY274 WY232 QR1126 WY664 EK864 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 FZ047 WY338 WY614 WY848 WY124 AI977 WY386 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 FZ049 AI907 WY914 QR1134 GF566 BA073 EY388 WY414 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696

ETA

ETD

ETA

ETD

WE DNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2015

C11

ENTERTAINMENT CINEMA SCHEDULE

BAHJA CINEMA Run All Night (2D) (Action)(15+) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris; 9:30 PM Outcast (2D) (Action / Adv) (15+) Cast: Nicolas Cage, Hayden Christensen 9:30, 11:30 PM American Heist (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Adrien Brody, Jordana Brewster 9:45, 11:45 PM Chappie (2D) (Action I Sci Fi) (12+) Cast: Sharlto Copley, Dev Patel 3:00, 5:15 PM The Protector 2 (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Tony Jaa, RZA, Petchtai 7:30 PM Project Almanac (2D) (Sci Fi) (PG12) Cast: Amy Landecker, Virginia Gardner 3:45, 5:45 PM Still Alice (2D) (Drama) (PG) Cast: Julianne Moore, Alec Baldwin 5:30 PM Asterix (2D) (Animation) (PG) 2:00 PM Kidnapping Mr. Heineken (2D) (Action) Cast: Sam Worthington 11:45 PM(12+) Life After Beth (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Dane DeHaan 7:45 PM Focus (2D) (Comedy | Crime) (18+) Cast: Will Smith; 3:15, 7:30 PM

Run All Night (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 9:15 PM Focus (2D)(Comedy/Crime) (18+) Cast: Will Smith, Margot Robbie 5:15 PM; Gold Class: 9:00 PM The Protector (2D) (Action) (15+) Cast: Tony Jaa, RZA

SCREEN 3 Enakkul Oruvan (Tamil) (Suspense / Action) – PG12 Cast: Siddharth, Deepa Sannidhi, Srushti Dange Aadukalam Naren 3:45 & 6:45 & 9:45 pm

11:45 AM & 3:15 PM; Gold Class: 3:00 pm The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out Of Water (2D) (Animation/Co) (PG) Cast: Tom Kenny, Antonio Banderas 12:00 & 4:00PM American Heist (2D) (Action) (12+) Cast: Hayden Christensen, Adrien 1:30 & 11:45 pm; Gold Class: 1:00, 7:00 & 11:15 pm Kidnapping Mr. Heniken (2D) (Thriller) (12+) 7:15 PM Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Jim Sturgess Asterix (2D): (Animation) (PG) 10:15 am & 2:00 pm Chappie (2D): (Action/Sci Fi) (12+) Cast: Sharlto Copely, Dev Patel 5:45 PM Project Almanac (2D): (Action/Sci Fi) (12+) 8:00 PM Cast: Jonny Weston, Sofia Black D’Elia Life After Beth (2D) (Horror) (15+) Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Dane Dehaan 10:00 PM Outcast (2D) (Action/Adevnture) (15+) Cast: Nicolas Cage, Yiferi Liu; 11:45 PM Still Alice (2D) (Drama) (PG) Gold Class: 5:00 PM

Chappie – 2D (12+) Action | Sci-Fi Cast: Sharlto Copley, Dev Patel, Ninja 3:15, 7:45 & 11:45 PM American Heist– 2D (15+) Action Cast: Adrien Brody, Hayden Christensen, Jordana Brewster 2:45, 5:30, 8:00, 10:00 & 11:45 PM Outcast (I) – 3D (15+) Action | Adventure Cast: Hayden Christensen, Nicolas Cage 4:30, 6:15 & 9:45 PM Kidnapping Mr.Heineken – 2D (12+) Action | Crime |Drama Cast: Sam Worthington, Anthony Hopkins, Jim Sturgess 3:45 & 9:45 PM Life After Beth – 2D (15+) Comedy | Horror |Drama Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Dane DeHaan 5:30 & 11:30PM Enakkul Oruvan – 2D (T) (PG12) (Thriller) Cast: Siddharth, Deepa Sannidhi, Srushti Dange Aadukalam Naren 7:15PM Project Almanac – 2D (PG12) Science Fiction Cast: Jonny Weston, Sofia Black D’Elia, Amy Landecker 3:00, 6:45, 11:15PM Still Alice – 2D (PG) Drama

SCREEN 1 Dirty Politics – Hindi (Drama) – TBC Cast: Mallika Sherawat, Jackie Shroff and Anupam Kher 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Screen 2 Badlapur – (Action | Drama) – 15+ Cast: Varun Dhawan, huma qureshi, Yami Gautamhi 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45 pm

Cast: Julianne Moore, Alec Baldwin, Kristen Stewart 5:00 PM Run All Night – 2D (15+) (Action, Crime, Drama) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 9:00PM

Run All Night – 2D (15+) Action, Drama Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 9:15 PM American Heist – 2D (15+) Action/ Drama/Adventure Cast: Adrien Brody, Hyden Christensen, Jordan Brewster, Laura Cayouette 4:45, 6:30, 10:00, 11:45 PM Life After Beth – 2D (15+) Comedy Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Dane Dehaan 4:45, 8:15, 10:00 PM Clash of Empires: Bloodlines – 2D (12+) Action/Adventure Cast: Stephen Rahman Hughes, Gavin Stenhouse, Jing Lusi, Rahim Razali 2:50, 6:15, 11:45PM Kidnapping Mr. Heineken – 2D (12+) Drama/Action Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Jim Strugess 3:00, 5:15, 8:15 PM Chappie – 2D (12+) Action/Adventure Cast: Hugh Jackman, Sharlto Copley 3:00, 7:00 & 11:30 PM

Clash of Empires: Bloodlines (Action | Adventure) (12+) Cast: Stephen Rahman, Jing Lusi 4:30, 11:45 PM Life After Beth (Comedy | Drama | Horror) (15+)

Cast: Aubrey Plaza, Dane DeHaan 6:30, 8:15 PM American Heist (Action) (15+) Cast: Adrian Brody, Hayden Christensen, Jordana Brewster 4:30, 8:00PM Kidnapping Mr.Heineken-3 (Action | Crime | Drama) (12+) CP# Cast: Anthony Hopkins, Jim Sturgess 6:15, 9:30, 10:00 & 11:45PM Run All Night (Action | Crime) (15+) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 9:45PM

American Heist (Action) 2:00, 8:00, 10:00 & 11:55 pm CP NO: 598 (PG 12) Project Almanac: (Thriller/Sci:Fic: ) 2:00 pm, & 8:00pm CP NO: 600 (PG12) Life After Beth: (Horror/comedy) 6:00pm CP NO: 601 (15+) Still Alice (Drama) 6:00pm CP NO: 599 (PG) Asterix (Animation) Cast: Rogger Carel, Lorant Deutsch 4:00pm CP NO: 602 (PG) Focus (Comedy/Thriller) Cast: Will Smith, Margot Robbie 4:00pm CP NO: 559 (18+) Run All Night (Action/Crime)(15+) 10:00 & 11:55pm Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris

Focus (2D) (18+) (Com| Crime) Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Cast: Will Smith, Margot Robbie, 12:45 & 2:00PM Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com American Heist (2D) (15+) (Action) 12:30, 4:15 & 9:30PM Outcast (2D)(15+) (Action/Adventure) 11:00AM, 9:45 & 11:45PM Chappie (2D)(12+) (Action| Sci-Fi Cast: Sharlto Copley, Hugh Jackman 10:30AM, 2:15 & 11:45PM Kidnapping Mr. Heineken (2D) Cast: Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Sam Worthington, Anthony Hopkins, Fireman (Mal) (Act/ Thriller) Jim Sturgess Cast: Mammootty, Unni Mukundan & 2:30, 6:00 & 7:45PM Project Almanac (2D)(PG12) (Sci-Fi) Nyla Usha 3:30 & 9:30pm at Cinema 10:45AM & 4:15 PM Main, 6:30pm at Cinema-2 Life After Beth (2D)(15+) (Comedy | Kakki Sattai (Tamil) (Com/Rom) Drama |Horror) Cast: Shiva Karthikeyan, Sri Diya 12:30, 4:45, 6:00PM 3:30 & 9:30pm at Cinema 2/6:30pm at Enakkul Oruvan (2D)(PG12) 6:30 PM Run All Night (2D)(15+)(Action) Cinema Main Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris Ennakul Oruvan (Tamil) (Com/Rom) 9:00 & 11:15PM Cast: Sidharth & Deepa Sannidi Youm Maloush Lazmah (2D)(12+) 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45pm at Cinema-3 (Comedy) Temper (Telugu) (Act) Cast: Noah Taylor, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Jacki Weaver Cast: Jr Ntr, Kajal Agarwal, Prakash Raj 7:30 PM 3:45 & 6:45pm at Cinema-4 Badlapur (Hindi) (Act) Cast: Varun Dhawan & Yami Gauthami 9:45pm at Cinema-4

STARS CINEMA

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

An opponent is your assistant

SUDOKU

8 5

1 9 2

4

2 4 7 5 6 6 1

6 7 3 5 2 8 1 2 8 3 9 7 1 2

8

6 5 4 5 7 1

9

HOW TO PLAY Fill the empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column and area.

— Seven Galaxies

SIDDHARTH SINHABABU

3 4 8 1 7 9 2 5 6 5 6 9 4 3 2 1 7 8 1 7 2 5 8 6 4 3 9 8 3 5 6 2 1 9 4 7 4 9 6 3 5 7 8 2 1 7 2 1 8 9 4 3 6 5

B I G NAT E

50 54 55 56 57 58 59 60

Fine china Ernesto Guevara Rice wine Jai — Shadowy Tech. school Movie theatre Salary limit

DOWN 1 Sage or basil 2 — Khayyam 3 Appealing 4 Young girl 5 Devotee’s suffix 6 Gulf st.

7 Not masc.

8 Strongly disinclined 9 Horror-flick staple 10 Rushes off 11 Explain further 17 Do yard work 19 Kind of humour 22 Social mores 23 Nash of humorous poems 24 Urchin 25 Most of the earth 26 CPA’s sum

28 30 31 32 37 39 41 43 44 45

Feel crummy Western treaty grp.

Wrench target Zoom on runners Draw out Impress deeply Keats opus Orange muppet Equine hue Havens

47 Heavy-metal band 48 “Wool” on clay sheep 49 Rope fibre 50 Tyre pressure meas.

51 Varnish ingredient 52 Boxing great 53 Fleming of 007 novels

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS 1 Ad — committee 4 Petulant displeasure 8 — Khan 12 Non-flying bird 13 Castaway’s refuge 14 Without contents 15 Dock denizen 16 Hemmed and hawed 18 Makes tea 20 Mineral deposits 21 Meat on — 23 Startled cries 24 Do as — —!

27 Children’s pursuit game 29 Billions of years 33 13th Hebrew letter 34 Holed up 35 Puffin kin 36 Canape topper 38 Pamplona shout 39 — spumante 40 — Angeles 42 Appearing for the first time 44 Sudden foray 46 Get through to

SOUMYA T. S.

March 11, 2010

March 11, 2009

AMANDA D’COSTA

P. DEEPAK RAGAV

ATHIRA KRISHNA

March 11, 2005

March 11, 2004

March 12, 2003

9 8 3 2 6 5 7 1 4 2 5 4 7 1 8 6 9 3 6 1 7 9 4 3 5 8 2

MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

AREEB RAZA

March 11, 2013

Previous puzzle Solution

DAVE Barry, a Pulitzer Prizewinning author who wrote a syndicated humour column for The Miami Herald from 1983 to 2005, said, “I can win an argument on any topic, against any opponent.

People know this and steer clear of me at parties. Often, as a sign of their great respect, they don’t even invite me.”

You hope to win a deal against any opponent. Sometimes, though, you have to call on an opponent to help your cause. If you succeed, that opponent will try to steer clear of you in future events, or try to become your partner.

In this deal, how should South plan the play in six hearts after West leads the club queen?

North’s two no-trump was the Jacoby Forcing Raise: at least fourcard heart support and an opening bid. South’s three-diamond rebid showed a singleton (or void) in that suit. The next three calls were control-bids (cue-bids) showing aces and expressing slam interest.

South then used Blackwood before signing off in six hearts.

At first glance, it looks as though South must guess who holds the spade queen. But that is not true. He should win with his club ace (the honour from the shorter side first), play a diamond to dummy’s ace, ruff the diamond seven in his hand, lead a club to dummy’s king, and ruff the club eight. Having eliminated the minors, declarer leads a trump.

The opponent who wins the trick is endplayed, forced either to open up spades, finding the queen for South, or to concede a ruff-andsluff.

— By Phillip Alder

WITH LOVE

BORN LOSER

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KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C1 2

W E D NE S DAY, MA RCH 11, 2 015

EXTRA What happens to your body when you give up sugar?

The brain becomes tolerant to sugar, which means more is needed to attain the same ‘high’. Sugar is addictive in the same way as nicotine and drugs hijack the brain’s reward pathway and make the users dependent

I

n neuroscience, food is something we call a “natural reward.” In order for us to survive as a species, things like eating, and nurturing others must be pleasurable to the brain so that these behaviours are reinforced and repeated.

Evolution has resulted in the mesolimbic pathway, a brain system that deciphers these natural rewards for us. When we do something pleasurable, a bundle of neurons called the ventral tegmental area uses the neurotransmitter dopamine to signal to a part of the brain called the nucleus accumbens. The connection between the nucleus accumbens and our prefrontal cortex dictates our motor movement, such as deciding whether or not to taking another bite of that delicious chocolate cake. The prefrontal cortex also activates hormones that tell our body: “Hey, this cake is really good.

And I’m going to remember that for the future.”

Not all foods are equally rewarding, of course. Most of us prefer sweets over sour and bitter foods because, evolutionarily, our mesolimbic pathway reinforces that sweet things provide a healthy source of carbohydrates for our bodies.

Today, with convenience more important than ever in our food selections, it’s almost impossible to come across processed and prepared foods that don’t have added sugars for flavour, preservation, or both.

These added sugars are sneaky – and unbeknown to many of us, we’ve become hooked. In ways that drugs of abuse hijack the

brain’s reward pathway and make users dependent, increasing neuro-chemical and behavioural evidence suggests that sugar is addictive in the same way, too.

Sweet tooth I have a huge sweet tooth. I always have. My friend Andrew is equally afflicted, and living in Hershey, Pennsylvania – the “Chocolate Capital of the World” – doesn’t help either of us. But Andrew is braver than I am. Last year, he gave up sweets for Lent. “The first few days are a little rough,” Andrew told me. “It almost feels like you’re detoxing from drugs. I found myself eating a lot of carbs to compensate for the lack of sugar.”

There are four major components of addiction: bingeing, withdrawal, craving, and crosssensitisation (the notion that one addictive substance predisposes someone to becoming addicted to another). All of these components have been observed in animal models of addiction – for sugar, as

well as drugs of abuse.

Like drugs, sugar spikes dopamine release in the nucleus accumbens. Over the long term, regular sugar consumption actually changes the gene expression and availability of dopamine receptors in both the midbrain and frontal cortex. Specifically, sugar increases the concentration of a type of excitatory receptor called D1, but decreases another receptor type called D2, which is inhibitory. Regular sugar consumption also inhibits the action of the dopamine transporter, a protein which pumps dopamine out of the synapse and back into the neuron after firing.

In short, this means that repeated access to sugar over time leads to prolonged dopamine signalling, greater excitation of the brain’s reward pathways and a need for even more sugar to activate all of the midbrain dopamine receptors like before. The brain becomes tolerant to sugar – and more is needed to attain the same “sugar high.”

The cravings never stop Although these studies were conducted in rodents, it’s not farfetched to say that the same primitive processes are occurring in the human brain, too. “The cravings never stopped, (but that was) probably psychological,” Andrew told me. “But it got easier after the first week or so.”

In a 2002 study by Carlo Colantuoni and colleagues of Princeton University, rats who had undergone a typical sugar dependence protocol then underwent “sugar withdrawal.” This was facilitated by either food deprivation or treatment with naloxone, a drug used for treating opiate addiction which binds to receptors in the brain’s reward system. Both withdrawal methods led to physical problems, including teeth chattering, paw tremors, and head shaking. Naloxone treatment also appeared to make the rats more anxious, as they spent less time on an elevated apparatus that lacked walls on either side.

Similar withdrawal experiments by others also report behaviour similar to depression in tasks such as the forced swim test. Rats in sugar withdrawal are more likely to show passive behaviours (like floating) than active behaviours (like trying to escape) when placed in water, suggesting feelings of helplessness.

Are you still motivated to give up sugar? You might wonder how long it will take until you’re free of cravings and side-effects, but there’s no answer – everyone is different and no human studies have been done on this.

-Jordan Gaines Lewis/The Independent

H E A LT H

15 foods to change your life staple is good for detoxifying the system, lowering cholesterol, aiding digestion and improving skin condition.

YOUR PASSPORT to better health could be the ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

1. An excellent source of vitamins, antioxidants, fibre and minerals, TOMATOES are high in the phytochemical lycopene. Lycopene helps to protect the skin from UV rays and has been shown to help prostate problems.

12. The capsaicin contained in CHILLI PEPPERS means these nutritional firebombs have antibacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties. It is also found to reduce cholesterol levels. Fresh red and green chillies have minerals and vitamins C, A and B, too.

2. Traditionally believed to be an aphrodisiac, OYSTERS are also high in zinc, which improves the absorption of vitamin C into the body. Zinc also helps eliminate toxins in the liver.

3. TURMERIC has traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory in Chinese and Indian medicine. It’s used to treat arthritis, heartburn, stomach pain, gall bladder disorders, headaches, colds and lung infections.

4. SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS contain high levels of vitamin D, which is particularly good for skin regeneration.

5. The high tannin content of BLACKBERRIES provides a number of benefits to help reduce inflammation of the intestines, alleviate haemorrhoids and soothe diarrhoea. Extremely high in vitamin C, a healthy serving will also boost immunity.

6. There are more health benefits linked to GARLIC than any other food. With antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties, they are packed with disease-fighting potential, and can reduce stroke and heart attack risks. Eating it regularly can halve the risk of stomach and prostate cancer.

7. Because of its mineral balance and high water content, CUCUMBER is one of the bestknown natural diuretics.

8. Replacing just five per cent of your calories from saturated fat (such as butter and cheese) with AVOCADO can slash heart attack risk by a third – its plant

sterols block the body’s cholesterol absorption.

13. GINGER has so many health benefits, it should be a medicine cupboard staple. It can kick-start a sluggish appetite, aid muscle cramps, stop nausea, soothe your throat and clear blocked sinuses.

9. Some research suggests that eating 45g of DARK CHOCOLATE every day can cut the risk of heart attack by 10 per cent.

It can also lower insulin resistance, improve blood pressure and prevent blood clots.

14. YOGHURT is not only a great source of calcium but the probiotics it contains also dampen down harmful bacteria in your gut. It’s great for IBS, ulcers, urinary tract infections and yeast conditions.

10. KALE is loaded with vitamins, especially A and C, minerals and anti-cancer nutrients.

It’s also cleansing, skin-healing, and immune-boosting, and aids bone-building.

15. Sprinkle a tablespoon of ground FLAXSEED over your cereal for a boost of health benefits. It’s a fantastic source of fatty acid, which helps thin the blood to reduce heart attack and stroke risks, and is a cholesterollowering fibre source. - Nicole Carmi-

11. The old APPLE a day adage still stands, as this fruit bowl

chael/Daily Express

D

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FOR RENT

OFFICES FOR RENT Premium offices to let a very good location on the main road very close to Zakher Mall, Al Khawiar. Business Center has offices with sizes of 50m2, 110m2, 180m2, 207m2, 230m2, 437m2.

Showroom also available at Business Center, Area 500m2 with central A/c.

Offices with Central Air-conditions, Security System with CCTV cameras, and Security presence in the building.

Contact: 97377355 / 97307476, Email id: aaleem@ggcoman.com

Industrial /commercial shops at Wadi Kabir 4 x 5.6 x 4.6 MTR height.

Showroom with mezzanine & office at Al Noor Street near Switz bakery & Al Masa hall corner building all on roads & parkings in front of shops & show room. Contact 99065900 or 99354975 Full furniture for rent for family.

Contact 99251975 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ AZAIBA, 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 33, 1 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair, 3 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 25. 5 B/R Fully Furnished villa @ Madinat Al Ilam. For Daily, Weekly, monthly or Yearly contract. Contact: Atlas Real Estate & Rent A Car LLC 99249069 / 99436312/92888376, Email: info@alshahiintl.com

4 BHK villas for rent at Al Ghoubra North 18th November Street near new mars hyper market.

Contact 97681599 2 BHK flat in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181 200 sq mtrs showroom in CBD. Contact 99792181 Labour camp for rent in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181 200 sq mtrs store in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181 4 BHK villa for rent in Madinat Ilham. Contact 99792181

NEW WAREHOUSE For rent at Ghala Ind. Area. 578 & 1170 approx sqms Near Hotel Al-Madinah Holiday, Ghala. Container can enter. Immediate access to roads & highways.

Contact : 92078090

1BR/BTR, kitchen for Indian family ladies near Ruwi church.

Contact 99746379

Commercial /Non - commercial double story villa for rent in Al Khuwair suitable for offices.

Contact 95526871

Flats & shops for rent at MBD, Wadi Kabir, AL Khoud & villa at Azaiba.

Contact 93994401/02/03

New building under construction in Bowshar consists of three rooms and a hall and the sitting room, 4 bathrooms, at the second floor.

Contact 92711504 finishes 2bed room /18 flats Madeenath Al Nahda Phase 6. Contact 99061408 / 99024039

4 & 5 BHK villa in Madinat Qaboos.

Contact 99792181

Villa 2 bed rooms, hall, sitting room in AL Hail south R.O. 320/Monthly. Contact 93993354 1 Bed room in Al Hail south R. O 160/- Monthly. Contact 93993354 2 shop in prime location with material one north Ghobrah & on Honda road. Contact 94676848

Single room RO 100/- including A/C, water, electricity Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99376454

Flats consists 2 Rooms, 2 toilet and a kitchen in the southern Al Mawalah to call 96935360

Show room with sales counter attached with store and racks location near Wadi Kabir old Round about.

Contact 99474197 / 95403957

Small office room for rent Azaiba Nov 18 street. Contact 98563322

Villa in Mawallah rent, 2 bedroom, 2 bath room, 1 sitting room & kitchen with parking. Contact 99595866

1BHK near Oman house behind Khimji, HO. Contact 95865686 Room for rent Honda road. Contact 92540125/ 97605342/ 94053366

Upper portion of beautiful villa for rent in prime location of Mawalah Ahmed clinic three bedrooms, attach bathroom, kitchen, Majlis, living room. Contact 95526871

Bachelor villa at Ansab.

Contact 98458542

Full staff accommodation for rent in Azaiba, 15 rooms with attached bath and kitchen with parking and yard.

Contact 95526871

2 Bedrooms flat in Al Ghobrah near Oman oil 18 November Street.

OMR 330. Monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

Room for rent Al Khuwair.

Contact 99743569/97004265

Villa for rent with 4 bedroom at Al Khodh, Rent 750/-RO.#92888115

FOR SALE

1 bedroom attached toilet in Al Khuwair bachelors/ family R.O 140/-. Contact 95154331 2BHK with split A/C in W.K behind Sana furnishing. Contact 96708000 Flat for rent in Amerat and fifth region 5/2 ground floor two-bedroom and two bathroom and a kitchen to call 99196066 Abdul Amir 85 SQM shops in Ruwi only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Spacious 2 BHK flats in Ruwi MBD area only on 350/- OMR.Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Beautiful office space available in Ruwi MBD area only on 2/- OMR per sqm.Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 For rent in a quite area in South Mabela commercial services, kids area, near the Masjid close to Al Noor round about, spacious apartment separate entrance. Contact 99766760 Deluxe 3 bedroom apartment for rent in Mumtaz area for more information. Contact 99336263 1& 2BHK at Honda road Ruwi.

Contact 99224748/ 99332297 Furnished room available on Seeb share with small family for couple working ladies. Contact 96996938 1 Bedroom attached toilet Al Khuwair area only for ladies or husband and wife without children. Contact 9:00 pm to 7:00 am 95765719 Flats shops and store for rent in Ruwi, Honda road, Rex Road. Contact 95902218/ 92433127 / 97293708 1BHK flats at Muttrah.

Contact 93231403 Single room with A/C having separate entrance for non –cooking Indian Executive, near Rawasco, Al Khuwair rent 130/- including (W& E). Contact 92888691/95397442/97201100 Deluxe 1 bedroom flat, ideal for office / residence at Qurum near PDO. Contact: 97721313 / 95070421

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khan co. OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricity and boundary wall will be provided.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 For rent from owner directly 4 nos of luxurious spacious 3 BHK plus big family hall apartments, 1 no of luxury spacious 2 BHK plus big family hall apartment in al Khoudh 6 close to Sultan Qaboos university, next to shopping area and has easy access to express highway.

Contact: 99436348/97600322 1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khan co.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricity and boundary wall will be provided. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402 Villas & flats at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 Al.Khuwair studio behind platinum hotel rent 130/-R.O PDC. Contact 99879939 AL Khuwair behind platinum hotel 4 BHK, 3bathrrom, sitting dinning split AC. Contact 99879939 Flats and shops. Contact 93009999 3BR top class fitting flat ideal for top executives Mumtaz area, Ruwi.

Contact 91287824 Family flats and villas at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 Industrial Land in Misfah.

Contact 93009999 2BHK in Muttrah near Oman house with split ac. Contact 97007934 / 92629232 1000 sq mtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for Ware house workshop.

Contact 24700120 / 925

Flat for rent, 2BHK in Sidab Muscat. Contact 92440012 500 SqM Built up Area well divided with 85(SqM) Office space ACP cladding front, 85 SqM Covered Workshop/Store space, compound and gated. Partly construct Labor accommodation, ample open space available for rent at Misfah opposite Al Maha Fuel Station.

Call: 93850385 or 96060699 1 / 3 BHK Flat Ghobrah, close to ISG Way 4041, building 4390.

Contact 99319880 Villa Al Khuwair, 8 bedroom, 7 bathroom, 3kittchen. 950/-. # 99358589/ 95121126/95570288 Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402 6 bedroom villa for rent at Al Mawalah near City Center Seeb.

Contact 99654252 2BHK flat Al Khuwair with split A/C. 350/- Contact 95121126/99358589/97079146 If require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send messages through Whatsapp or call – 99376454 Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat.

Contact 99349526 Prim location, nice finishing villa for RENT. 2 big bedrooms . Main large sitting room. Small maid room. Kitchen and 3 bathrooms.

At Alkhuwair. near Holiday Inn & Oman Club. 99426662, PDC only.

For families & college girls.

BUYING/SELLING Looking for purchase of Used Portable Compressor (350 CFM, 7 Bar Pressure) powered with Diesel run Generator.

Kindly Contact 99014686 or operation@khancogroup.com

Established Running Restaurant for sale in Salalah. Contact casualdining767@gmail.com Double burner Shawarma machine at Ruwi for sale. Contact 95395378 / 91374871 Well furnished with net and phone connection ready to occupy office in prime location in AlGhubra South on Sultan Qaboos Road, kindly contact 93441134 Food counter for sale new bainmary with glass cover suitable for food Court and restaurant 2 pcs.

Contact 99656863 Restaurant for sale well running with open area and good parking area. 3 new clearance also in Wadi Kabeer near Mars hyper market.

Contact 99656863 Readymade garment shop with furniture. Contact 99386170 Window A/C. Contact 96441670 For sale laundry shop in Azaiba 4 clearance for sale work shop carpenter Wadi Kabir, 4 clearances.

Contact 99345137

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DAILY GUIDE

WANTED Clinic required, One Established new Clinic in Muscat, with Valid License & Clearance is required to purchase interested Parties can contact 91283188 or send your inquiries to mohamedsfarah@hotmail.com

FOR SALE Building Material shop for sale at Suwaiq A running 5 shutter building material shop with two paint machines available for immediate sale. Also available warehouse and yard at the same place. Interested parties please contact the following numbers: 93223382 / 99874936

Shop for sale prime location at Al Khoud Souq Tejari. # 99083308

New barber shop on sale at Misfah.

Contact 93833107

Shop for sale or rent in Ruwi.

Contact 99103077

Steel scrap, old tyres, empty oil drums & batteries etc for sale in our yard, at Azaiba. Interested parties may visit our site & forward quotations in sealed envelopes, with a deposit of ro.50/- & marked “head finance (rmc)”, p.o. box 1099, pc-111, within 7 days. Contact person: mr. Hafez on 99628486

Unused spare parts for early models of ken worth, fiat, cifa, putzmeister pumps, caterpillar are for sale in our yard, at Azaiba. Interested parties may visit our site & forward quotations in sealed envelopes, with deposit of ro.50/- & marked “head finance (rmc)”, p.o. box 1099, pc-111, within 7 days. Contact person: mr. hafeez on 99628486

Dental clinic for sale or rent running last 2 yrs in center of Sohar.

Contact: 97004100 Coffee shop for sale a well running coffee shop for at Wadi Kabir Sanaya.

Contact 94159356/91039293 5 Flats of 1 bedroom for Sale in Boushar: OMR 35 Thousand each.

Monthly income OMR 270 Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 3 floor building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Commercial registration with excellent name Grade A for business software for sale. Contact 92959251

Brand new highly finished luxury twin villa for sale in Mawaleh Phase -1 land area for each villa 300,00 m2 builtup area for each villa 433.50 sqm both villas with separate krooki. Contact 99164959

23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Shop for sale Honda road.

Contact 94053366 / 97605342

ACC. AVAILABLE

AVAILABLE

ACC. WANTED

Fuel tanker, fork lift. # 99199374 Ladies parlour for sales at Al Ansab. Contact 98281849 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692 Dental Clinic with license for sale in Sohar. Contact 92816015 Shop for sale at Ruwi. # 99103077

Established Restaurant for rent with sponsorship.

Contact 97628242 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. www.tunesoman. com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

Wanted a 2 bedroom flat in around Ruwi area. Gsm 99761216

ACC. AVAILABLE Room, hall, kitchen toilet in South Mabela RO 140/-. Contact 98869198 Fully furnished single room available in CBD area. Contact 92162623 1B/R available for bachelors in REX ROAD, Ruwi. Contact 99889590

Executive bachelor near Mars one room with bath furnished room R.O 125/-. Contact 98376464 / 92446858 100% furnished sharing acc. brand new and perfectly maintained attached bath room, spacious kitchen etc for couples or upper class executives. Contact 99013344 Furnished single / sharing room for Exe. Bachelor at Rex road (Kannada, Tamil, Telugu) Contact 92873832 Semi furnished room for bachelor at Muttrah rent R.O 75/- .

Contact 92828615

Sharing room with A/C available behind Oman house.

Contact 99354340 One bedroom flat with hall for rent in AL Khuwair area near Radisson blue hotel. Contact 97646492 Sharing accommodation available near Walja School for Indian bachelor. Contact 99459121 Spacious 3 BR long hall, 3 bathrooms new spit A/Cs - Qurum (PDO Road) Direct owner.

Contact 99431708/ 24571963 Contd on pg 6

D4

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 1 1 , 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE C.A with 11 yrs experience (6 years in Oman) as Finance Manager. Contact 93731296 Indian male 32 years M.B.A, 5 years experience as Accountant in Qatar and 3 years experience in Marketing and Purchase department valid Qatar license is advantage, seeking suitable placement.

Contact 93011814 Mail: shajusr@yahoo.com Accountant male 25 CA finalist from Pakistan having 4 years experience looking for suitable position in accounts /audit currently on visit visa. Contact 98845617 Email: usmanmaqsood.ca@gmail.com CA Finalist having big four experience of more than three years seeking suitable position currently on visit visa. Contact 94663269 Email: rizwan_ravian@yahoo.com

SALES / MARKETING Wanted Salesman with driving licence and car. Gsm : 98805474 or email id: jobssales2015@gmail.com

ADMIN

Required promoter for promoting Perfumes in shopping centre please.

Contact 95663682 or send CV atugt15@gmail.com

Urgently Required: Purchaser, Administration and Accountant with NOC and immediately join.

Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

ARCHITECTURE Urgently required, Architect with knowledge of interior design.

Minimum 2-3 years experience.

Interested candidate may please send CV to fax: 24694998 Email: fareedadesign@gmail.com

BEAUTICIAN Urgently requited Indian experience Beautician in location Al Hail near Al Khamis Shoes.

Visa available Good salary + food + accommodation.

Contact 92284899/ 92139922

CATERING Required a Bakery man for a catering company to be posted in interior site. Apply with NOC. Contact 95332694, Email : ccs_oman@yahoo.com Wanted experienced Indian Chef for reputed house in Qurum.

Knowledge & experience in Indian, Continental and Chinese food is must. Contact 99466062

DRIVER Wanted one light driver.

Indians only should apply.

Contact : 95451713 Expatriate heavy duty drivers / crane operators and forklift operators with PDO icense and Noc. Contact 99465358/99348352 Wanted driver. Contact 95112461 Required a private driver from India. Contact 92345861

DOMESTIC HELPER Part time maid at Al Ansab-3.

Contact 98458542 Required Housemaid for Indian family, Visa will be provided.

Contact: 94291473 Require House maid in Mabela.

Contact. 95200180

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Urgent requirement Civil Engineers 8 nos for Supervision 5 yrs experience. Contact: 99244481 Email: secons.engineers@gmail.com A/C Mechanic, Electrician plumber, computer hardware etc.

Contact 99447257 / 97014234 mansur75@hotmail.co.uk

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Required MEP Engineer with minimum Diploma or degree 5 yrs experience & with driving license.

Fax : 24478522, Email : gh1.careers@gmail.com Wanted Computer Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Communication Engineer & Commercial Manager 10 yrs experience salary for each RO 1500.

Email:lulubd2012@gmail.com Urgently required experienced Civil Project Managers site Engineers, MEP draughtsman, MEP quantity surveyor for an excellent grade Civil Construction company.

Interested candidates can contact on 00968-99885931 / 99881459 and send CVs on mohamed@oasisgrace.com Contact 24826566 Fax: 24812226 Urgently required Civil Engineer - Graduate with 12 to 15 + years experience preferably in managing building construction company.

Arab nationals with good command in English only. Send CV to Email: chtrecruitment.ka@gmail. com / khadeer.cht@gmail.com Urgently Required: Civil Engineer experience in building construction with NOC and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Leading metal fabrication group requires Sales Engineer, minimum 2 yrs exp. with valid Oman D/L. Contact: 99102383 Email: hr@khancogroup.com

IT Urgently required following vacancies for a well established company: Computer Technician cum Sales Executive, data & voice networking technician, account assistant. Contact 91227407 Email id: info@fathimallc.com Required IT Technician for computer shop. Send your CV at khalid@rayyancomputer.com

MEDICAL Urgently required Pharmacist.

Contact 94200385/ 95206905/ 97433142 Email: anitho@gmail.com

MEDICAL Require GP doctors and Staff Nurse for a medical centre in Mabela. Contact 95200180, amanammc@gmail.com Urgently required a female nurse with MOH license to work permanent or leave vacancy for a reputed clinic.

Salary Negotiable.

Contact 94618483 Wanted labs Technician to work in a polyclinic. Candidates who have passed their prometric examination can also apply. Attractive salary offered. Contact 99173571 Urgently required exp Pharmacist with MOH license and NOC. Contact: 97164554 or royalmedicalservice@gmail.com Urgently required an Orthodontist with MOH to work at a reputed Dental Center in Muscat.

Contact 968 99694723, Email : dr.bdohc@gmail.com Require female Nurse with MOH License urgently for Clinic in Ruwi.

Contact (99013455) Wanted Pharmacist (B Pharm), Staff Nurses (female) with or without MOH license for a polyclinic near Sohar. Excellent salary package. Contact 99006915, email : alhinaee.clinic@yahoo.com

SALES / MARKETING Oil marketing and trading company require Sales Executives. The desire candidate should have Oman driving license, with Oman experience and required on urgent basis for oil company. Please post the CV on fakhare@gmail.com Office no 00968-24467177 Marketing Executive for digital printing company. Contact 94356769/ 96936564 Urgently required Omani national Sales Executives (indoor & outdoor) for marble & granite company in Muscat. Please send your CV to nimmu.n@gmail.com or Contact 94552924 We Al Mayar Co LLC are seeking talented experienced Sales Executive for the FMCG, Electrical and Electronics sale. The interested persons can send their CV s to ultrasales@almayarllc.com and pnoman@gmail.com

Indian female, M. Com with 6 years experience in finance, HR & Administration with Oman D/L . On family joining visa. Contact 99864846 Email: b_ralitha@yahoo.com

Indian male 34 years b.com with 7 years experience in Oman. accounting upto finalization. management accounting, budget looking for suitable post. NOC not available.

Contact 97427897.

Indian female post Graduate MIB, B.Com 2 years experience in accounting field well versed in tally, ERP-9 Peach tree, MS Office.

Contact 97235401

Indian male 26 years, 2 years experience in Accounts at Oman, total 5 years experience in same department. NOC available.

Contact 91354849

Urgently required out door sales executive for furnishing company with valid Oman license and minimum 3 years experience in furniture field. Contact 93231403 or mail: rainbowfurnishing156@gmail.com

Accountant Indian male M.B.A, B.com having 5 years GCC exp with valid Oman driving license & Noc available. Contact 91719385 mail: shinuyesodharan@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian Accounts / Audit assistant with 2 years of experience currently on a visit visa looking for suitable job openings.

Contact: 94677338, 97041086 Email: ajeeshkcy1989@gmail.com 22 years of experience in Multinational Companies & reputed firms in Financial Management, Project Management, Budgeting and Cost control, seeking a strategic Financial/Management Accounting role in a dynamic organization . Please contact Mob. +971-506178139, Email.georg_vargis01@yahoo.com ACCA finalist and BSc from Oxford Brookes University UK, having 18 months working experience, currently in Muscat on visit, seeking immediate and suitable position.

Contact : 95375282 A Fresh ACCA Affiliate, Pakistani male, 24 yrs, open for positions of Accounts, Audit and finance.

Contact 94541539

Indian, MBA finance looking job in accounts, finance, cost controlling 9 years experience 3 years in GCC. Contact 97138592 on visit visa.

Seeking for a job on Indian male aged 23 years qualification are BCA bachelor & computer application & accountant 1 years experience.

Contact 95386434 Email: mohammedshanid5@gmail.com MBA finance graduate Indian male on visit visa one year’s internship experience in financing/marketing looking suitable marketing /finance position. Contact 95394938 safeer. buzz@gmail.com Part time Accountant with 15 years exp in Accounts, finance, audit tax management. Contact 95857199 Accountant (B.Com, MBA pursuing) Indian male 25 years, 2 years experience in India, seeking better placement on visit visa. Contact 97709327 Indian male 27 yrs MBA HR & marketing 1 yr exp in HR supporting looking for suitable job.

Contact 97484159 Indian Practising CA from Mumbai on visit Enquiry, advice & follow up of all Indian taxes, filing returns, investments, project finance, housing loan, company formation ref www.ca-nka.com Email: aminnaveen7@gmail.com Ph:+968 97246270 (Oman) +91 9820457219 (India) Young Indian graduate, experience in Logistics and Accounting/ Sales and Marketing seeks placement.

Immediate availability.

Call: 97374480

Accounting up to finalization, auditing & contact for tally ERP software Contact– 91720465

Indian male, B.COM, currently in Oman on Visit Visa, Urgent seeking suitable Job Accountant / Administrative/ HR dept. have 6y. UAE experience, Valid Driving License, Knowledge of Internet ,Tally ERP9, Microsoft Office. MS EXCEL, immediately available.

Contract +968-92718733 , Email : sahashankar@gmail.com

Indian male- B.Com/B.Ed/15 years Exp – 5 in Oman, seeks job in Accts/Sales/Logistics have NOC and Oman D/L with car. Contact – 92919625/93511425/ 93424828; Email- seshadricpioman@gmail.com

FCCA- Qualified from UK with 9 years of experience in Big 4 & Top 30 UK firms. Currently working as Manager Finance & Accounts for more than 2years. NOC available, please contact 9259 3748.

Indian Male, MBA 2 yrs experience in Accounts, Admin & HR on visit visa. Contact 92045306

B.Com India. Languages : English, Hindi & Malayalam.

Contact 92954613

Female M.com with tally seven years Indian experience in audit and accounting on family visit.

Contact 93213138

Our company CHABROS LLC is seeking for Indian salesman.

Have an experienced in building materials. Please send CV to chabros@omantel.net.om

Wanted experience candidate for tours and rent a car.

Email: almoosarentacar@gmail. com, Fax: 24796040

India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placement. Contact:93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com

Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331

Required Salesman.

Contact 96964767

TOURS

Male, total 17 years experience in India & Oman - India - 9 years & Oman - 8 years In the field of procurement, material controller and accountancy - Local release available (Noc) Cont no. 91680124 , 98606546

Indian male postgraduate 7.5 yrs experience in Admin /accounts /HR logistics and procurement seeking suitable placement immediately available. Contact 93164413

Indian female 28 MBA (HR) B. Sc, 3+ years exp India & Oman HR/Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95619537

Urgently required an excellent grade construction firm based in Muscat has immediate vacancy for Marketing Executive minimum 5 years experience with D/L. Email your CV to info@omannc.com

Indian female B.com CA Inter 3 years internship completed 2 years accounting experience currently on visit visa seeking for suitable job . Contact 94682798/95736496 Email: giby2605@gmail.com

Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact – 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com Part time Accountant, up to finalization, looking for job after 5 pm (location prefer - Qurum to Al Khoudh). Contact 92917574 Indian M.Com Finance exp 1 year now in visiting visa.

Contact 96970734 Indian male, 25 yrs,MBA (Finance) 3 years experience as Accountant immediately available.

Contact 968 99485943, Email : hyd.mushu@gmail.com Pakistani male, 25 yrs, MBA Finance, 1.6 yrs exp in Accounts seeking placement in Accounts, Administration or Business Management. Contact 92651927 / 94250149 Indian male 26 years, with 4 years experience in accounts and administration looking for suitable placement. Contact 93008891 Female with MBA finance, financial and tax professional four and half years of experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations. Contact- 99792457 Email: msparveen1@gmail.com Indian male, B.Com, Accountant – 6yrs exp in Oman, NOC availableReady to join.contact: 98162671 ; email: prasanths3@gmail.com Indian Male, 25 yrs currently in Oman on visit looking for suitable vacancies in accounts, B.Com completed 1 yr experience.

Contact 92024380 B.com doing CA Accounts/ office job male now working in Oman Noc, release available. Contact 92715465 Email: alsabathehm@gmail.com Indian male, 32 years, M. Com. 7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com

ADMIN/HR Smart, excellent English, double masters, 10 years Oman experience.

Immediate NOC. Contact 91229392 Indian, Male, 30 Years, B.COM, 8 Years’ Experience as HR / Administration in Oman, seeks suitable placement, NOC Available, Contact No. 00968 94652591 Over 14 years of gulf experience in Admin /HR /Logistic fluent in Arabic & English with D/L , looking for suitable position. Contact 95824598 Indian female with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic.

Knowledge about ms office. Has 6 years of experience in customer service, telecommunication, HR.Looking for immediate placement. Contact # 97348819 Young Indian male with 5 years Muscat experience in admin, purchase & Masters from UK seeks placement. Possess driving license.

Contact 94400671

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D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED ADMIN/HR

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR

Indian male MBA 32 yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking suitable placement in Admin/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics etc. Holding valid Oman D/L .Contact - 99054786

Purchase Manager with 14 years experience in construction industry with valid D/L & NOC .

Contact 92884811 Email: bati.rajesh@gmail.com

Indian male, 27 yrs, MBA having 3 yrs. experience in advertising company and have through knowledge in office Co-ordination& administration, good computer proficiency on visit visa looking for suitable placement. Contact 91361534 sreejith. mv63@gmail.com

Smart, excellent English, double masters. 10 years Oman experience immediate, NOC . Contact 91229392

Indian female, MBA (HR) and B. Sc Microbiology holder, with computer knowledge confident and enthusiastic. 6 months experience looking for immediate placement in any sector.

Contact 97151308

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Indian male 24 years, Mechanical Engineer,pdms.1 yr experience in pipeline,16years in oman seeking immediate placement # 95775742 BE Civil Engineer looking for suitable placement.

Please contact - 98478376

ARCHI./ DRAUGHTSMAN

Indian- B.E Mechanical with MBA, 25 years experience last 12 years in Oil & Gas Sector in Oman. Skilled in Business Development, Sales & Marketing looking opening in oil gas trading or drilling or service companies as General manager/ country manager/ Business Development Manager. Contact -94688594 gmbdm2015oilandgas@gmail.com

Indian male AutoCAD, 3ds Max , 5 years of experience here on visiting visa looking for a job.

Contact 98360268 / 99881264

11 and Half years experienced Civil Diploma holder seeks placement with D/L, CAD & site experience.

Contact 93420930

AutoCAD operator, Indian male 3 yrs experience in Auto CAD 2D & 3Ds Civil Draftsman, MAX and Photo shop, presently on visit visa seek suitable placement.

Contact 91764358 Email: mohdsiraj02@yahoo.com

Mechanical Diploma Engineer Indian male 17 yrs experience include 6 yrs in Oman. Steel structural fabrication & maint. in heavy equipments. Oman driving license & NOC available seeking suitable placement. Contact 96728805 Email: jansanjosep@yahoo.co.in

M.Sc / MBA. Over 12 Years including GCC Experience in Admin/HR/ Operation/Procurement and Logistic.

Valid GCC DL. Looking for Suitable Position. Contact 99706618

Auotcad knows 3D,REVIT, MAX Ph : 97103168

BEAUTICIAN Beautician gulf exp (overseas) looking job. Contact 95175192

CATERING Indian cook, Tandoori cook, male, 32 yrs, having 4 yrs of experience in Muscat in India, looking for a cook job in Hotel. Contact 93753523 / 98744307 / 92175119.

DESIGNER Modular kitchen designer with 4 years Bahrain /Dubai experience plus 10 years AutoCAD, 3D, Photoshop& 20-20 Fusion.

Contact +968-96467673 cristobabu@gmail.com Keralite Bachelor professional building designer with AutoCAD, 3D Max & Accounts.

Contact 96535497, email : bhaviwky90@gmail.com

DRIVER Light Driver having own visa looking for job as driver.Contact 92303692 15 years experience in ABU Dhabi driving heavy vehicle, heavy tractor, heavy Bus, fork lift with valid license. Contact 96298020 now on visit visa expire 15/04/15.

Contact 96298020 Light & heavy duty driver JCB, Shovel operator valid GCC license Indian Pakistani looking for job.

Contact 95175192 Driver available in Ruwi.

Contact 97460056 Indian male Qatar GCC heavy driver license holder looking for a good placement now on a visiting visa.

Contact 98739710.

Light driver job. Contact 96756014 Light duty driver with 3 years experience in Oman +5 years in Saudi Arabia speaking Hindi Arabic English. Contact 96088707 Light duty driver looking for job 2 yrs exp. Contact 98356230 Light duty Driver wanted.

Contact 95667138

Indian male Mechanical Piping Engineer (BE) Done NDT course fresher on visit visa looking for job.

Contact 97359171 Keralite bachelor with B.Tech Mechanical Engineering looking for job in oman with three year of experience. on visiting visa. mob-91296354 manurpr88@gmail.com Graduate Indian male with 19 yrs experience in civil projects, commercial and procurement departments in oil & gas sector seeking suitable position. Contact 91251912 Email: suprarmct1975@gmail.com Civil Engineer 7 years experience in building line in Oman valid Oman D/L. NOC letter available looking for suitable placement.

Contact 96936406 Civil Engineer B.Tech Indian Female with knowledge of Autocad, STAAD and MS office seeks placement.

Ph:94688515 DAE Civil, Diploma of Associate Engineer Civil 3 yrs, Pakistani. Total 10 yrs experience, Pakistan experience 04 yrs, Oman experience 6 yrs.

Contact 92286164 BE Mechanical 3year experience in shipboiler, engine maintenance & desalination 99795073 Indian male B.E / B.Tech Civil /Site Engineer 3 years experience NOC D/L available. Contact 93883136 mohammedcivilengineer.mct@ gmail.com Mechanical Engineer seeking a senior position having 15 years of GCC experience operating in markets Oman, Kuwait , Bahrain & Saudi Arabia speculated in gas analysis and detection systems for Oil & Gas and petrochemical industries.

Contact 99230888 B.Tech electronics & instrument, Indian male having 4 years exp in oil & gas field one years experience in Saudi, looking for suitable vacancy.

Contact 98854946 Email: alfredtjose@gmail.com Chartered Electrical Engineer 5 yrs experience with core strength in design, installation, commissioning and testing effective skills in preparation of BOQ. Estimations, switchgears substations commercial and residential buildings Contact 94638744/ 96473165 Email : ceng.shaz@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECHNICAL Diploma in Architect 2.5 years experience in Oman having driving.

Contact 92967404 Civil Engineer (Diploma) 3 yrs exp seeking for placement.

Contact 95200650 Electrical Engineer B.E Engineer, 6 years experience in Dubai, Bahrain with G.C.C. professional licenses holding GCC driving license.

Contact 98063081 Email: imran.engr08@gmail.com Chemical Engineer B.Tech Indian male 2+ years of experience seeking suitable placement.

Contact 92545630 Email: vkarun77@gmail.com MS in Engg Management (UK), B. Tech in CS, 5+ years of exp in project management /sales /business development, MOB: 92798469 BE Mechanical 3 years experience in maintenance of ship, boiler & desalination unit. Contact 99795073, Email: sankarvijayan.mace@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer Indian male 29 years, having 5 years of experience in Industrial Automation & utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres) seeking suitable placement. #92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian male, 4 yrs experience in sales, Seeking suitable job on visit visa.

Contact 96137079 , 93095565, Email : elangovivek@yahoo.co.in Looking Part time Job in HVACContact - 93198128 Quantity Surveyor (Civil Building) looking for Part time job Contact no:-94391712 E-mail addressinayathhussain@yahoo.com

Indian male B-Tech Civil having 2 year experience in Visit visa seeks suitable position.

Contact 92609893

Indian B.Tech Mechanical Engineer, 26 yrs, 4 yrs experience in HVAC/ MEP. Contact 94669629, rajeevhpd15@yahoo.com

Computer Engineer holding bachelors degree in Computer Science with 7 years of total experience with 2 years in UAE, looking for a suitable job in Oman. Contact 92076362

Sudanese Mechanical Engineer 11 years exp in oil & gas industry.

Contact - 95928035

Elet.Engr 9+ yrs exp Noc available can join immediately.

Contact 99148940 Email: jobluk.om@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Diploma) 23 yrs, Indian male 1 yr exp. Contact +919645285855 / 97050267 mail id: unnikrishnan1334@gmail.com Civil Engineer B Tech, Site Engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050 Quality Assurance Design, BTech Elec, MBA (TQM) , IT Infrastructure(WLAN , TETRA) Security systems(CCTV AACS),Project control Engineering, Document Control / CAD Managing /Change management, Exp in Major projects, NOC available Ph : 99506977 HVAC Engineer (heating ventilating air conditioner) qualification B.E (Mechanical Engineer) 3 years experience (India) presently family visa. Contact +968 94271486 Indian female, 25 yrs, M.Sc Software Engineering having 2 yrs experience in IT & Admin, on visit visa seeks suitable placement.

Contact 96985150, Email : anucherian@gmail.com Indian male with 5 yrs experience in CCTV, (AV technician) and 4 yrs experience as Supervisor / billing section on visit visa. Contact 93570126 Indian male 27, B.A Economics, Diploma in fire & safety engineering, NEBOSH, IOSH, OSHA, certification, 4 years experience as Safety Officer in India on visit visa.

Contact 91092826 B.E /B.Tech civil 2-3 years.

Contact 93850875/95283064 Civil Engineer having 4 and Half years experience in building construction looking for suitable placement valid D/L available.

Contact 91253392

H.S.E & ELE Engineer have electrical license 4 years experience.

Contact 96076470 Email: aiashf@yahoo.com

Aircraft Maintenance Technician with one year experience seeks suitable placement. Contact amaljohn2002@gmail.com

Looking for job LVD experience, 2 years in Oman.

Contact 96534239

D.A.E Civil 4 years experience D/L Oman. Email: qamarsaleem52@ yahoo.com . Contact 96719649

Project Engineer, civil engineer BSC, Building Construction 5 Years Exp in Oman fluent Arabic, English and good Indian .Contact - 97858589

Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678

Male 27 diploma in civil engineering, 8 years experience in building constriction, 6th years in Oman now looking for the job permanent base or contract base immediately also I have a Noc for permanent base.

Contact 94619501/98925718 Email: engineertanoli@gmail@gmail.com

LV Driver- 2 yrs Exp-know English- Contact 95292064

BE/EEE Electrical Engineer Indian male 25 years having 2.5 years experience currently on visit visa looking for suitable placement.

Contact 00968-96522624 / 92770316 contact India +91- 9994024477 / 9597539520

Civil Engineer 4 years exp (3 in Oman as a Quantity Surveyor & planning engineer for road works & bridges in a big project) fluent in English & Arabic. Contact - 93477660

Experienced driver Indian with 4 wheel driver landcruiser.

Contact 91690870

Light driver looking for job.

Contact 91376612

Indian male, 28 diploma in fire and safety Engineering computer hardware net working 1 yr customer service experience trouble shooting technical support on visit visa.

Contact 91025050 / 98856803 Email: purujith8797@gmail.com

B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile)&Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 , Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com

B.Tech Electronics and Biomedical Engineering, female with approximately 2 years in medical field is seeking any job position. # 94652908 mail id: aswathiraviraj@gmail.com Telecom Engineer with 4.5 years Oman experience looking for a suitable opportunity, interested even in Marketing also. Possess valid Oman driving license. Contact 94145460 DAE (Civil) having 3.5 years Experience 2 years from Oman with driving licences, seeking for suitable position in Construction field NOC and release available . Contact 96968554 Email: mehranahmad26@yahoo.com 24 years Indian female diploma in computer science and engineering now on visit visa seek suitable placement. Contact 96314974/99107369 Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Gulf Exp in Design and Manufacturing Ph: 97097688 Generator maintenance in charge with 4 yrs experience with Cummins, caterpillar, kirloskar and voltas. Contact - email: shibinmundakkal@gmail.com Diploma of Associate Civil Engineering, Diploma of AutoCad, having 3.5 yrs experience, 2 yrs experience of Oman in Building Construction, valid transferrable ID Card.

Contact 94378581 Experienced female Electrical Engineer. Contact 93800906 Civil Engineer with 12 years Experience Looking For Job. # 98162295 Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Indian male, 26 yrs B-Tech (ECE) with MBA in Marketing / HR looking for a suitable placement. Currently on visit visa valid up to 30 January 2015. Contact 93754428, email : shijosirius709@gmail.com

EDUCATION Pakistani Female: looking for job as English lecturer, having 5 years teaching experience in Pakistani universities, qualification M. phil English linguistics Contact no 93534255 1 year experience in teaching all subject to KG classes, currently working as a teacher in Oman, seeking suitable placement, Family visa.

Contact 92178304 / 99036256

EDUCATION Indian Female (M.Com, B.ED) 2Yrs Experience in teaching seeks suitable placement . Specialization in ( Accounting, Business studies, Human resource management, Economics). Presently in Visit Visa Status. Contact:97342709, Email: sininair27@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY 27 yrs Indian male, Hospitality science, Graduate with New zealand business diploma having Oman experience in money exchange firm, looking for suitable opportunities in reputed organization.NOC available.

Contact.91383167

INFORMATION TECH Omani citizen searching a job in the field of computer Especially in data base professional in operating oracle SQL , PL/ SQL , form6i , Report 6i .

Contact 96977368 Email: talaloml@yahoo.com Indian female IT professional (B.Tech) on visiting visa, 1.5 yrs experience in .Net, worked in MNC, seeks suitable positions.

Contact 94389666 Indian male IT prof, MCA 2 yrs exp in Oman and 3+ yrs exp in India (system admin, hardware, networking, SharePoint, PHP, CSS, HTML, JavaScript, Ajax MySQL).

NOC available.

Contact 97496998 Indian male MBA (marketing & IT) with 1 yr exp looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa.

Contact 97327997 Email: irshad.alimc@gmai.com Indian Male M.Sc Electronics, having 7.5 years of experience in IT Computer Hardware and Networking seeking job placement. Contact: 97202522 email:connectjinomjohn@yahoo.com ERP Software professional, Indian male, 20 yrs (5 yrs Oman) experienced. Interested in ERP/ CRM, Development, Implementation, support position. Contact 93501977 Email: go4nadeem@gmail.com Indian male 25 B.Tech (IT) Engineer 2.5 yrs exp in hardware networking.

Currently on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact – 94359564 Hardware specialist B.Tech M.Tech electronics with 10 years experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations.

Contact 91289459 Email: shrn.shrf@gmail.com B.Tech IT Professional, Indian Male with 3 yrs of Exp. In System Admin, IT Support, Networking, Installing Active Directory, DHCP, DNS,RAS, configuring maintaining and managing servers, configuring cisco routers, Exp in handling SQL database, With Valid Driving Licence.

Contact - 968 98863507 IT Prof, MCA having 6+ yrs exp, seeks suitable position.

Contact 94543668 Looking for job Tunisian Bachelor with experience 5 years in Network/IT. Cont.:91368102 MCA, MBA, CCNA, MCSE, Indian male with 10 years of experience, holding Oman driving license on visit visa seeks any suitable placement. Contact 92716116 / 91266535 Email: sijuayur@gmail.com

10 years experience in Supermarket as a Manager. Fluent in English, Arabic, Bengali & Hindi presently on visit visa, looking for an opening in the similar field. Contact 91747258 Projects/ contracts Manager total 31 yrs (26 yrs in Oman) experienced in managing & coordination of multi-million R.O projects of government & private sector, post Graduate Structural Engineer with structural & QS Background looking for senior position.

Contact +00968-91400599 Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel. Contact: 91219787 Qualified Manager: (12+ yrs. Oman Exp.) Vast knowledge in A/c & Admin, Costing, Banking, Credit Control, Insurance, International Purchase/Logistics & Finance, With D/L looking for suitable position.

Gsm: 93826090 Email: jskanchan01@gmail.com

MEDICAL Female Dentist Indian, 28 years Dental Surgeon, 3 years of experience, Oman prometric passed with 64%, looking for a suitable placement in Muscat region.

Contact 91377681 Email: hashmisarwat@gmail.com 33 years, Indian Dentist with 7 years of experience in India and passed prometric exam seeking for suitable placement in Oman.

Contact 91022744 Email: praveengp_82@yahoo.com Medical- Indian female, 27 yrs, masters in hospital administration, fellowship in HTA studied in a super specialty medical sciences and research center in India and done project in an established hospital in sultanate of Oman.

Contact 93200827, 91026506 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378 Female pharmacist with 3 years experience and MOH license currently in Oman, CONTACT 92455124

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Welder, 3G, 6G, TIG, Exp in Fabrication , Gulf Exp Ph : 97103168 Care taker, Gulf Exp knows Hindi, Arabic Ph: 94238840

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE Tunisian women looking for job, knows english, frensh, Italian and arabic. Contact: 91171838 Indian Male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 99709336 Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement. Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298 Indian male, graduate with 7 years experience in hospitality industry, sales & marketing .M.B.A in human resource management. #92115860

MISCELLANEOUS SALES / MARKETING Helper, Electrician, Plumber, exp Gulf & India looking for job.

Contact 95175192 Indian male M. Sc Graduate with telecom AV experience for 6 years looking for suitable position. Contact 00971-557041574 / 95135218 email: nazid83@gmail.com Logistics Officer, Experience in Store keeping. Contact : 99505934

Indian male, B.Com, 20 yrs experience in Sales & Marketing having UAE light D/L looking for suitable post. Contact +91 9946699062, email : sajim40@gmail.com Well experienced restaurant Manager with Ample knowledge of sales and operations seeking suitable placement Noc available.

Contact 92953199

D6

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 1 1 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED

SALES / MARKETING

FOR HIRE

MISCELLANEOUS

TRUCK FOR HIRE Isuzu 10 ton cargo body truck

Indian Male, 34, 9+ years extensive experience in digital / online marketing, strategies for top corporate houses and brands in India. Also 9 months experience in Oman. NOC Available. Looking for a senior management position. Immediate Joining. Contact: 93137300 MBA (marketing & operations) with 2 years experience in marketing & operations looking for suitable placement, presently on visit visa.

Contact 97920125 Email: hareeshg111@gmail.com Indian B.Com 2.5 years back office, 1.5 yrs sales, 27 yrs, MS Office, MS word, Excel. Contact 95612321 Email: jkadavil@gmail.com Salesman, building materials, Gulf exp, knows Hindi, Arabic & English.

Contact : 95516807 MBA with Oman D/L seeking marketing or sales jobs.

Contact 94143154 email: rinojnathen008@hmail.com Indian male 9+ years experience in GCC and Indian in hardcore sales and customer service looking for buffer opportunity, holding valid Oman driving license visit visa.

Experience shipping, banking, safety products (PPE) Contact : 97132606 Indian Male having 7 yrs in experience in Oman Sales & Marketing Office Automation Printer, Copier, MFP, IT products & Stationery. Looking for Suitable Placement NOC Available Contact :97384748 Indian male, 33 years having 10 yrs experience in software applications looking for openings as project manager/senior business analyst.

Contact 98383246, vishnu.cm@gmail.com

Young female, having experience of working in Oman with expertise in the field of Event Management, Advertising, Marketing and Hotel Management. Currently on a visit visa. Seeking for a suitable Job. Contact 96153578 Experience in sales seeking suitable placement N.O.C & D/L available. Contact 91269031 Indian Male, 7 yrs experience in building materials trading having Oman D/L, immediate release available. Contact 98676713 6 years Oman experience in Sales seeking suitable placement. NOC available. Contact 99669137

MISCELLANEOUS Marketing executive + Warehouse manager ,Male 24years, 2 years exp with NOC available, GCC driving license, looking for suitable opening, please contact 97307863 27 years, Indian optometrist , female , 3years experience looking for suitable placement in Muscat.

Contact : 92066532 EMAIL : aradhanaarun88@gmail.com Sales manager (be-mech/mba) in oman since-2005; (omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in marketing and sales or, bdm profile, contact-96040977, kvmssn@gmail.Com ACCA+2.5 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance/Internal Audit. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree. Gsm: 91717234 Email: xhoaib101@hotmail.com,

Indian male 25 yrs M.B.A having More than 2 years experience in sales & marketing good communication skills Looking for a suitable job. Contact 92152913 email: May4senthil@gmail.com

28 year Indian male Art specialist with 7.5 yrs of experience in Healthcare industries in AR analyst (US Based Project - M.BA., Finance) seeking suitable placement. Contact +91 9841906431, E-mail: aru1986k@gmail.com

10 years experience in medicine & surgical equipment sales. Fluent in English, Arabic, Bengali & Hindi .

Presently on visit visa, looking for an opening in the similar field.

Contact 91747258

B.tech Mechanical Engineer, Keralite bachelor with B.tech looking for job in oman with a year of experience on Visiting Visa.

Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com

Indian male, with 3.5 years Oman experience in Sales looking for a suitable placement NOC available.

Contact 99142951

Sr. Sales Manager (BE/MBA) 9 yrs in Oman; (GCC/omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in mktg, sales or, bdm profile, # 96040977, kvmssn@gmail.com

Indian male Graduate with 7 years of experience in Hospitality industry, Sales & Marketing good communication skill looking for a placement in any field. Contact +968- 92115860 Indian male, with 8 yrs exp in Sales Operations & accounts handling, expert in SAP & ERP applications seeks job. Contact 93345990 10 years experience in sales & customer service having Oman D/L seeking suitable position.

Contact 94480533 Experience in sales seeking suitable placement D/L and NOC available.

Contact 99196353 Indian male Graduate 4 years experience in Sales & marketing in Oman, with Oman D/L holder seeking suitable placement.

Contact 92878855 Indian female 7 yrs experience in Admin /Sales Coordination in Oman with valid Oman driving license urgently seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94176308

Indian Male 22 years, B.Com looking for suitable placement.

Contact no. - 99894520 email- fouzishaque@gmail.com Planning Engineer 7 years of Experience in project planning and control in oil and gas, PDO & QP Approved Planner,PRIMAVERA-6,B. Tech in Mechanical engineering from CUSAT Contactullasprabhakaran@yahoo.co.in, ph-00974 70230223 Indian male total 17 yrs exp in field of procurement, inventory, controlling & accountancy. Local release available, seeking suitable placement. Contact – 91680124 / 98606546 Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of Ms .Office & Tally, 4yrs experience in A/Cing & admin dept .looking for good placement in any field. Contact.98928220 British Beauty Therapist Looking for suitable position Mob: 97175240

ACCA-UK, B.Sc (OBU-UK) having 2.8 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance department. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and Peach Tree. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm: +968-95459936 Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439 Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340,Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com

(2012 FVR) with UAE experienced driver available for long term / short term rent.

Contact: 95346950 Hire Generators, Air conditioners.

Contact 98927220 Running truck wash for rent in Ouhi Sunia Sohar. Serious people can. Contact on 97864747

SIT.WANTED

Indian male, 11 years exp.

In accounting, knowledge in tally also. Looking for a part time job.

Contact . 98983122

Indian female B.Com Graduate, 4yrs experience in accounts, admin dept looking for placement in any field 98928220

Female Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary with 27+ experience, worked with top management/Board in financial services with shorthand skills & Omani driving license, seeks suitable placement. Call 95941515

Sudanese/Bsc IT/ 2 years experience/ excellent English-Arabic speaking/ Omani driving license/ Contact: 96387227, henrykarrar@gmail.com

Indian Female, 24 yrs MS. Software Engg. Currently on family visa, 1 year experience in SAP WM & IT seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95490105

M.V. FOR SALE

50 seater bus with PDO specification for rent or lease.

Contact 99839898

Indian Female, B.tech bio-technology graduate. Knowledgeable in food processing techniques, having 2 yrs experieince as associate research analyst(media monitoring) in Nasdaq Omx, seeking for growth oriented job. Contact 92044603, angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

Dodge Nitro 4.0 ltr engine 2007 model 130000 kms, red colour, registration valid for one year. RO.2700/-.

Contact - 91251966 Car for sale Toyota Yaris 1.3, 2008 model 90000 km, hatchback.

Contact 99354340

ACC. AVAILABLE

Female, MSc Chemistry, BEd, with 1.5yrs of experience as research officer in a chemical manufacturing company in India.

Ph: 95243584

Indian female, Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 8 months experience in Travel and 2 and half years experience in Operations and HR looking for job in Field of Travel/ Office Management. Contact -92816803/ 92459686. Emailvijetadevilishangel@gmail.com

Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering, 3.5 year experience as a Safety Advisor in Carillion Alawi 27 year Indian male also having valid Omani driving license, looking for job Email:govindansreejit@gmail.com, Contact 968 9808527, 96176872

Gubrah furnished room, attached bath dish TV, WIFI, kitchen available for Executive single person, couple.

Contact 99658689

MBA (international business) with 2.5 years experience in sales and also experience in vehicle spare parts (in-charge) looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa. Contact 93539456, 95765868, E mail: mathewsantony936@gmail.com

Experienced, male 25, hardworking, looking for permanent job in Accounting, Finance and Auditing field, ACCA UK and B.Sc in applied accounting (OBU-UK). 2-years of practical experience with an audit firm in Pakistan. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm:+968-95459936

Room for executive bachelors (no Kitchen) including W/E. 125 RO. Contact 98949724

Part Time Accounting Job Complete Data Entry, Reporting and Finalization. Any Time Available.

Location Ruwi to Bharka. Please Contact- +968-92049215 Email:- aiafe.oman@gmail.com Accountant , Indian Male,24 years , 3+ years experience in Finance and Accounts, M.com Finance , Exposure in SAP & Tally ERP 9 , Good communication skill, on visit Visa. Contact 95366407 CAT (UK) , ACCA (UK) , 3 year experience. (including one year experience in EY world 3rd largest audit firm) looking for reputed company for a job of Internal Audit, Finance and Accounting.

Contact no: 00923008833525 Indian female, 24yrs, M.Com (Accounts) having 3 yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeks suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available. Contact: 99654913

Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering, Completed IOSH, have PDO Passport.3.5 year experience as a Safety Advisor in Carillion Alawi 27 year Indian male also having valid Omani driving license, looking for job. Email:govindansreejit@ gmail.com Contact: 9689808527,96896176872 Indian female, 24yrs, M.COM (Accounts) having 3yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeking Suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available.

Contact: 99654913 Job seeker with ten years of experience in management, banking, and marketing. Muscat, mobile number: 91262609

GOOD NEWS

Furnished rooms for Indian bachelor in Al Falaj Ruwi & lady in Wadi Kabir. Contact 95941515.

Room in CBD area for non cooking Executive bachelors free WIFI, Advance deposit. Contact 95934642

NRI

Taimour Ayurvedic Clinic, Ruwi offers genuine & effective treatment for back pain, paralysis, cervical and lumbar spondylitis, osteoarthritis, joint pains, sinusitis, migraine, allergic problems, varicose vein and all other health related problems. Kerala massage and rejuvenation package available. For details please contact: 92197920/ 24799689 Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba.Contact 99639695 / 99117987

B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile) & Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com 37 years Indian Male with 10 years PDO experience Store Keeper seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 95849804

Honda CRV , 2012 EX 2012 model , twilight blue liters , 34000 Km , free service package up to 60000 km expat single owner , insurance valid Oman & UAE up to August 2015 , R.O 7750/- . Contact 99069741

Room for rent at Al Ansab.

Contact 98806430

Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization. Contact 9602 3965.

INDIAN FEMALE ,Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 2 and half years experience in Admin/ Accounts and Office coordinator looking for job in Field of Travel/Office Management. Contact -92459686/ 92816803, Emailkrupa_patel1984@yahoo.com

Toyota Camry white 2011 km -51000 R.O 4800/-. # 99561562

Spacious, 2BHK flat for sale at Hebbal Bangalore. Contact 96263157 Attractive, savings, investments and insurance plans from SBI life (A Group Co of State Bank of India) Contact Mr. John Moras (95778431)

MATRIMONIAL Well qualified Christian girls looking for suitable alliance from well qualified and born again Christians (age 40 & 43). Contact 92560192 Email: pastorphilipmathew@gmail.com Female BSC Nurse Christians RC Kannur Kerala inviting proposals from employed boys . Contact 00919496840556 /0096892490393

Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).

Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 , www.siddhayur.com FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 96050000, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133.

For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit: www.islamfact.com

MATRIMONIAL Keralite Syrian Christian Parents seeking alliance from any Syrian Christian Denominations Graduated working girls preferably in Oman or UAE for their son MBA 29/175-born brought up in Muscat working in a reputed organization.

Contact 97226324 email: m4proposal@yahoo.com We are looking for a Muslim Girl for our son interested parents or daughter May. Contact 97664009

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 1 1 , 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

TOURS

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

TRANSPORTATION Transportation. Contact 98505294 Transport with driver available in Muscat region any time any where with luxury cars very low price.

98294551 Transportation. Contact 99664703 Picking and drop. Contact 96743215 Transportation. Contact 98518979 Transport to ISWK. #93172589 Contd on pg 8

D8

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 1 1 , 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

WEBSITE

MANPOWER

COMPUTER

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

DRIVING

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 Available construction workers, hospital staff with Oman parametric, housemaids Indian, Uganda.

Contact 9629417/98408488 Email: alkubratrading@gmail.com

CLASSES Lady Trainer available for driving classes in Seeb area. Knows Hindi, English, Arabic & Baluchi.

Contact 98869198

TRANSPORTATION

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 Cheapest prices all types window, curtains and Blinds.

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Transportation . Contact 98178135

BUSINESS

Transport available.

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Cleaning services, carpet & sofa shampooing, marble restoration (grinding) and polishing, pest control, fogging service. Contact 99448057, 95401996

Transportation available.

Contact 95570429 Transportation. Contact 91379976 Pick & Drop any time.

Contact 97014786

Cheapest Prices, all types window, curtains and blind.

Contact 99539521

Pick & drop anytime in al Khuwair.

Contact 99764307

Computer service/ AMC/ Networking. Contact 91339882

SIT.WANTED

Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

Omani Citizen Mechanical Engineer with 1 yr exp looking for job.

Contact:95993315 email:eaz-s@hotmail.com Accountant , Indian Male,24 years , 3+ years experience in Finance and Accounts, M.com Finance , Exposure in SAP & Tally ERP 9 , Good communication skill, on visit Visa.

Contact ( 95366407 ,96921443) IT support 6 yrs experience, male, Filipino Desktop Support, Backup administrator, Wireless Networking, server admin, laptop support, DB admin. Contact +96896126502

Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 / 92682970

Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722 Learn Baking cakes, cup cakes & Icings, Handicrafts.

Contact 95941515.

Tutoring ACCA/CAT subjects, passing exams by expert lectures.

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House shifting. Contact 99708138 House shifting packing.

Contact 99657644, 98518013 Door to Door Computers repair specialist laptop software Website cartridges. Contact 99199376

Split & window unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact 99557080

AC service repair and maintenance.

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Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Cheap website / software development, SEO, SMO, SMM, APP store optimization, apps for IOS, Android, windows, blackberry.

Contact 95526871, www.ashterzsoft.com

Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130 A/C maintenance & servicing & washing machine & dish washing repairing, painting & painting & cleaning services & electrical & plumbing. Contact 99447257/97014234/24504281 Pest control & cleaning services professionals in pest control service bedbugs treatment, rodent, treatment, snake treatment and termite treatment, pre and post construction. Contact 93098450, 96408964, fax : 24472116 A/C maintenance split A/C servicing. Contact 94217681/ 99210141 Marble polishing & crystallization, building cleaning floor, floor polishing, carpet, sofa shampooing, pest control, anti termite shifting, maintenance. Contact 99504275

Window & spilt unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact 96236476 Pest Control Treatments, Termites, Cockroaches, Bedbugs. Contact Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723 Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 / 92682970 GULF INTERNATIONAL LLC. all kind of pest control.

Contact 92326955 Feasibility study, market research, financial analysis of companies.

(968) 99229700

LOST Kaxartadka has lost Indian Passport No. H 8992848. Finder please handover to ROP