Times of Oman - October 19, 2016

WEDNESDAY October 19, 2016 17 Muharram 1438 AH

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FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

At the Police Stadium, 1975

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ Our Victory, therefore, is the first to be achieved by an Arab country over world communism in the battlefield in a war which lasted long years, and the second victory by an international state.

MORNING MINUTE

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 198 | 36 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

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REMITTANCES

BY EXPATRIATES ‘WON’T BE TAXED’

28,745 register on Tuesday for campaign

‘I Love the Sultan’ campaign receives football body support Times News Service

To include their names in His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s portrait for the 46th National day, 28,745 people registered yesterday.

On Facebook, 56,000 people viewed it while the website recorded 3,500 page views.

MUSCAT: Times of Oman’s exciting ‘I Love the Sultan’ campaign has scored the backing of the Oman Football Association (OFA).

The campaign, which will see tens of thousands of signatures of Omanis and expatriates alike to create a portrait of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said in honour of the 46th National Day, has been launched by Times of Oman and its Arabic sister title Al Shabiba.

Muscat Media Group (MMG) is the OFA’s official media part-

ner and both titles have been running the promotion which gives anyone registering the chance to win some great prizes, and the OFA is keen for all the football lovers in Oman to support the promotion.

Praise for MMG OFA General Secretary Sultan Al Zadjali commented, “It is great that Muscat Media Group has come up with this campaign, and as the sport of the Nation, we are very happy to show our support.

Anything to show the love that the country has for His Majesty the Sultan.”>A5

BUDGET AIRLINE

SalamAir CEO reveals fares RAHUL DAS

rahuldas@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Fares for SalamAir — Oman’s first budget airline — may start from less than OMR15 one way, a senior official at the airline said.

Speaking to the Times of Oman, François Bouteiller, chief executive officer (CEO) of SalamAir said: “Tickets for SalamAir may even start lower than OMR15 one way, but it will depend on when you book and what you book and the period (off peak, etc.).”

Bouteiller said that fares would depend on the class people choose

Citing an IMF pact, the CBO chief said there was no plan to tax expatriates’ remittances

MAHMOUD SAID AL OUFI TIMES NEWS SERVICE

MUSCAT: Expat remittances will not be hit by taxes, Central Bank of Oman (CBO) Chief Hamood Sangour Al Zadjali has said publicly for the first time.

Despite numerous government measures taken this year to help balance the books in the wake of slipping oil prices, including scrapping the petrol price cap and reining in public sector bonuses, expat remittances will not be affected.

The CBO chief made the statement while speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman’s Arabic sister paper Al Shabiba.

Al Zadjali said imposing a tax on expatriates’ remittances is

2.13b rials were remitted by the expatriates from the Sultanate during the first half of this year

subject to several considerations.

“From the legal aspect, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Agreement, to which the Sultanate is committed, provides that no restrictions should be imposed on payments and transfers

classified as current international transactions, except with the approval of the IMF.” “Very few countries, and no GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) country, impose such taxes.”

A remittance tax was seriously proposed by members of the Majlis Al Shura back in November 2014; however, the idea was quickly dismissed by the State Council.

Al Zadjali noted that expats’ remittances had recorded a slight increase of 1.1 per cent during the first half of this year, touching more than OMR2.13 billion.

But he added that while expats remittances do represent a leak from Oman’s total domestic savings, thus affecting the country’s foreign reserves, the contributions of migrant workers need to be taken into consideration.

“Migrant workers bring new skills that are not available in the host countries, which enable such countries to produce the goods and services they previously imported, he said. >A6 See also >B1

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

Fifth edition of Traffic Safety Expo begins

1

Fifth edition of the Traffic Safety Expo organised by ROP has started.>A4

REGION

IS using civilians as human shields

2

Residents of Mosul said IS was using civilians as human shields. >A7

SPORTS

Oman ready for WCL Division 4: Mendis OCA launches Pink Ribbon initiative

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Coach Mendis declared Oman’s readiness for WCL Division 4 event.>C4

from. “If you intend to travel to Salalah with or without luggage (in addition to your hand bag) or if you’d like to have the flexibility to change your ticket at the last minute, etc… this will have an im-

pact on the basic fare which will apply. And, as you get closer to the day of travel (earlier bookings tend to have the best prices), the prices will increase slightly,” he told the Times of Oman. >A6

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

OMAN EVENT

Play contest returns to Indian Social Club’s calendar Times News Service MUSCAT: A popular one-act play competition, which used to be a major attraction in the Indian Social Club’s (ISC’s) cultural calendar, will be reintroduced this year.

The competition, which used to attract many talented artistes performing unique plays, was discontinued for a few years.

However, due to much demand from the art loving members of the club, this event will be restarted. The one-act competition will be open to all residents of Oman, who are of Indian origin.

Teams are required to submit their entries no later than November 15. The list of artistes, on-stage and back-stage, and the synopsis of the play in English and Arabic, along with a copy of the full script in English, should be submitted with the entry form.

The competition shall be governed by the rules laid down by the Ministry of Heritage and Culture and a detailed set of rules for the competition will be available at the ISC reception.

Participants are advised to study the rules first and then apply after confirming that the script they wish to pursue adheres to the competition’s rules.

The play can be in any Indian Language or English. No entries will be accepted after the cut-off date of November 15.

The competition will begin on January 20, said Shakeel K.M., honorary joint cultural secretary of ISC, Oman.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

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There will be a series of events including the annual walkathon, awareness sessions and other events to mark Oman Cancer Association’s Pink Ribbon initiative

DEEBA HASSAN

deeba@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman Cancer Association has launched a ‘Pink Ribbon’ initiative to create greater awareness in the country during the month of October, which is also the global breast cancer awareness month.

Walkathon “We have been creating awareness at a number of the malls, at the Muscat Grand Mall, Muscat and the Qurum City Centre, Al Mouj Muscat, the Oman Avenues Mall, every weekend from Thursday to Saturday, where we advocate for cancer awareness, prevention and control and also talk to people on a one-to-one basis,” said Dr. Wahid Al Kharusi, chairperson of OCA. The annual walkathon, which is now in its thirteenth year will be held on November 1, from 4pm to 6pm at the Qurum Natural Park. T-shirts marking this occasion are already on sale in malls, at the OCA office in Al Azaiba, and in some schools. They cost OMR3.5 each.

Caps, mugs and other OCA merchandise are also on sale to raise funds and spread awareness.

OCA will also be holding four workshops from October 22 to 30 on four different topics—the first one will cater to volunteers, the

OMAN

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Pink Ribbon drive to create greater cancer awareness

second will be held for journalists and it will teach them how to report and understand cancer, the third workshop will focus on leadership for the health professionals and the last one will train them in how to do research.

Art exhibition An art exhibition is scheduled for October 26 at the Grand Hyatt Muscat, where artworks will be displayed from 7pm to 10.30pm to raise funds.

Several artists have donated their works for this.

Apart from this, palliative care and community nurses are also

being given special attention during the month of November.

OCA will further train and help upgrade the nurses’ skills during a five-day workshop aimed at enhancing their leadership and research methods.

Recognised Al Kharusi further said the OCA has been recognised as a centre for excellence, “OCA has been recognised as the only centre outside the United States that is accredited as a centre for excellence for cancer protection and control because of the work we have done.”

Plans are also underway to send a group of volunteers and cancer survivors to climb the Mount Kilimanjaro, as a step further towards spreading cancer awareness and promoting a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

OCA has teamed up with City Centre to spread awareness in the mall over the next few days.

Partnership City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum have joined forces with OCA in its mission to empower people and spread the awareness about the deadly, yet treatable disease: breast cancer.

The malls will host a comprehensive range of events from October 18 until November 1.

City Centre Mall has partnered with OCA to spread the word on breast cancer.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Said Al Kalbani, minister of Social Development, inaugurated a campaign in the leisure court area of City Centre Muscat on Tuesday.

The programme will include an informative presentation explaining the mammography process, fine needle biopsy, and ultrasound.

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MEETING

Majlis panel discusses budget MUSCAT: Majlis Al Shura’s panel on economy yesterday discussed the budget for the coming year among other things.

The Economic and Financial Committee at Majlis Al Shura yesterday held its 1st meeting between the 1st and 2nd annual sittings of the 8th term (2015 – 2019) under the chair of Saleh bin Said

Masan, Head of the Committee.

It also approved its work plan and executive programme for the 2nd annual sitting in relation to its prerogatives while studying and discussing the draft state general budget for 2017 and the 9th fiveyear plan, as well as preparing for several upcoming ministerial statements and discussing the fu-

ture vision (Oman 2040) with respective agencies.

The panel reviewed the draft agreement on avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion on income tax with the Republic of Sri Lanka. The Committee decided to host the Secretariat General of Taxation to study the draft agreement. -ONA

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

OMAN

We saw a dearth of new hotels in this area and therefore we came up with the Grand Millennium at this location.

Martin Cramer, general manager of Millennium and Copthorne Hotels Oman

SQU STUDENTS WORK

Results of negligence on roads highlighted in art TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com

ROP exhibition on traffic safety gets under way The three-day event features hundreds of exhibitors displaying various innovative products dedicated to traffic safety as well as interactive attractions to raise awareness among

SAFETY FIRST: The exhibition was inaugurated by Mohsin Al Sheikh, Chairman of Muscat Municipality. – Photos Shabin E

adults and children

CREATEING AWARENESS: The paintings have been created by Sultan Qaboos University students to raise awareness about the dangers of negligent behaviour on the streets. – Supplied photos

streaks of red paint, which simulates blood.

The reality that many nationals and residents see on Oman’s highways is shredded pieces of rubber from a blown out tyre, leading to a major accident, which results in death or severe injury.

“A culture where people regu-

larly check their tyres does not exist here,” said Al Ziadi.

The paintings have been created to raise awareness about the dangers of negligent behaviour on the streets and the grim consequences one might, which are highlighted by these enlightening portraits.

TRAFFIC SAFETY EXPO 2016

Schools take part in exhibition

Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Fifth edition of the Traffic Safety Expo, organised by the Royal Oman Police (ROP), commenced on Tuesday.

Inaugurated by Mohsin Al Sheikh, chairman of the Muscat Municipality, the three-day event will feature hundreds of exhibitors displaying various innovative products dedicated to traffic safety, as well as interactive attractions that raise awareness among adults and children alike.

“There are a lot of participants in the exhibition, including 150 companies, establishments and associations,” said Al Sheikh.

“There is great interest and care for traffic safety and this comes as a result of royal directives to the government and society to prevent accidents.”

Participants displayed products that are essential for enhancing traffic safety, such as state-of-theart speed traps, highly visible cat eyes, various LED signs and speed indicators.

“We see the efforts taken to achieve this today. There is more awareness among the visitors, schools, companies and social associations. They care about this issue, which shows that we are on the right path,” noted Al Sheikh.

The exhibition also featured

MUSCAT: “A picture is worth a thousand words,” rings true at the Traffic Safety Exhibition, where students from the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) have displayed artwork depicting the harsh reality of traffic safety in Oman.

Grim, but truthful paintings depicted everyday occurrences on Oman’s roads, such as texting and talking on the phone while driving, which leads to accidents and deadly consequences.

Ghalib Al Ziadi, head of the Organising Committee of the Media Society at SQU, said, “A vehicle is meant to be a modern means of transportation, but unfortunately some of us use it for speeding and reckless activities on the streets.”

“Some youth say ‘I’m not going to cause an accident,’ but others get into accidents because of their reckless activities. Now they are thinking only of speeding, but the question is: After speeding, what?”

One of the paintings depicts a vehicle that has just met with an accident, with the front bumper crushed while the foreground displays a picture of a mobile phone with the picture of the driver.

The painting depicts the harsh truth about drivers taking ‘selfies’ while driving and, most probably, speeding as well.

Another painting shows a family screaming. The mother, children and father are all screaming in fear as they are on the verge of a deadly disaster. The culprit in the photo is a father talking on the phone while driving, who has also failed to wear a seat belt.

The third among many others shows a worn out tyre with

KHADIJA ALZADJALI

khadija@timesofoman.com

medical stalls set up by ROP, which showed CPR dummies put to use, as well as mobile hospital units; a movable hospital is used for tending to victims of disasters.

Children were also educated about traffic safety as the exhibition has set up a mock street, equipped with driving lines and

traffic lights, where children driving a small car could gain the experience of what it is like to drive, as well as learn that driving without a licence is dangerous.

The exhibition is open for the public and will continue until October 20 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre.

MUSCAT: This year’s Traffic Safety Expo is focusing more on the education of children, both on and off the road.

The exhibition, which started on Tuesday, is hosting 107 stalls designed to create an interesting learning experience, regardless of age.

Oman Expo organiser Melissa Daleja expects the exhibition to attract more than 60,000 visitors within just three days. Companies have set up attractions for children, as well as designated areas, especially meant for child interaction.

“The initiative of the Royal Oman Police (ROP) is to focus on road safety,” Daleja said. “Right now, they are encouraging more children to be a part of the awareness campaign. This is why they [ROP] are encouraging schools to take part in the exhibition.”

Three different schools will carry out a number of performances to express the importance of following the street laws, street signs and signals.

Oman Private School principal Michael Byrne believes that allowing children to take part

SAFETY LESSONS: Three different schools will carry out a number of performances to express the importance of following the street laws, street signs and signals. -Supplied photo

in such campaigns actually has a lasting effect than merely instructing them later on.

“They’re getting an education in safety,” Byrne said. “Even if they’re just learning how to cross the road, it is much needed. Hopefully some of the lessons they learn here will carry on with them for years to come.”

The Rahab Al Marifa Basic Education School in Seeb also brought 10 students from the first to fourth grade to see the exhibition. Badriya Al Hasni, an accompanying teacher, told the Times of Oman that the

children had spent all of last week participating in a Road Safety programme, creating posters and participating in competitions.

“It is important that they are aware from an early age,” Al Hasni said. “It is inevitable that they will one day drive, but till then, they will be riding with their parents or with someone else. They will understand the signals and even know how to act in the car to stay safe.” The three-day exhibition will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m. every day and ends on October 20.

FOCUS ON LUXURY MEETINGS, INCENTIVES, CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

Grand Millennium Hotel plans to capitalise on its central location SYED HAITHAM HASAN

haitham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Grand Millennium Hotel will focus on luxury tourism and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE).

Speaking to the Times of Oman during the media tour of the hotel, Martin Cramer, general manager of Millennium and Copthorne Hotels Oman, said the new hotel is centrally located in Bowshar, an area which lacked new hotels and will focus on luxury tourism and MICE. “We saw a dearth of new hotels in this area and therefore we came up with the Grand Millennium at this location. It is conveniently located in the vicinity of major business areas in Oman and although there are other well recognised hotels around the area, they have been there for too long and fresh hotels are required. We will cater to luxury tourists and MICE, capitalising on our location.”

According to Cramer, plans for

NEW HOTEL: The seven-floor 320 room-hotel offers a rich mixture of classic rooms, club rooms, royal suites and executive suites, along with 32 apartments, six of which boast private terrace and swimming pools. - File photo

new hotels that will cater to all audience are in the pipeline and residents can expect a four-star hotel to come up by 2017.

“We plan to target every level of audience; therefore we will introduce a four-star hotel by next year, followed by a three-star in the future,” he added.

Welcoming the media guests for a tour of the hotel, Cramer also

explained the architecture of the hotel as that of contemporary style with an Omani touch.

The seven-floor 320 room-hotel offers a rich mixture of classic rooms, club rooms, royal suites and executive suites, along with 32 apartments, six of which boast private terrace and swimming pools.

Commenting on the opening, Cramer noted; “We’ve recently be-

gun welcoming guests, and without any publicity have been pleasantly surprised with the demand, with visitors coming from Oman, the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) and further afield.

The hotel has already hosted a good number of events in the ballroom, which is the perfect setting for large scale conferences and weddings. With sumptu-

ously appointed rooms and suites, alongside spacious apartments, exceptional dining options, family friendly recreational amenities and the largest conference facilities of any hotel in Oman, the Grand Millennium Muscat offers the best-mix of business and leisure with unmatched hospitality. In addition, the hotel is located close to the popular tourist spots

of Muscat, which are just a short drive away.”

The hotel also features the largest ballroom conference facility in Oman, with the Crystal ballroom being able to accommodate up to 800 guests.

The hotel also features seafood and a continental restaurant, along with two cafes that cater to casual business meetings.

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

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OMAN

Pakistani expats can renew their passports online now The whole process is estimated to take less than 20 minutes, and involves three steps

SHAHZAD RAZA

shahzad@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Pakistani nationals in Oman can now renew their Machine Readable Passports (MRPs) online instead of visiting the Pakistan Embassy in Muscat, avoiding inconvenience due to time constraints or long distance difficulties.

Those wanting to renew their MRP can log on to the e-Services portal (onlinemrp.dgip.gov.pk)

set up by the Ministry of Interior for the convenience of expat Pakistanis, who have to travel long distances to reach their embassy and apply in person.

The whole process is estimated to take less than 20 minutes, and involves just three steps—online application, credit/debit card payment and home delivery, which will involve extra delivery charges.

The online facility is only applicable for passport renewal. New passports cannot be applied online.

Applicants not having a personal address can mention the Embassy of Pakistan Muscat as the address for delivery and collect them upon arrival. There will be no delivery charges if the passport is delivered to the embassy.

The Government of Pakistan issues MRPs for two categories of its nationals—passport with a five-year validity and comprising 36 to 100 pages, with a varying fee

structure for normal and urgent delivery, and for those with a 10year validity.

However, the online application process will require a certain set of skills and facilities, such as an internet connection, computer and scanner, to be able to complete the process as per the ministry’s instructions, which may not be easy, especially for the majority of blue-collar Pakistani workers in Oman.

A senior official at the Embassy of Pakistan confirmed the new facility for expats, though it may not significantly reduce the number of visitors to its premises.

“It’s a great facility for those who can benefit from this. People can now apply for their passport renewal from the comfort of their home. We encourage all Pakistani nationals to avail the facility as much as possible, though we will be happy to serve them if they wish to visit the embassy and do it

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in person,” added the official.

Many Pakistanis in Oman do not have the required facilities at their disposal and may still have to visit the embassy for the renewal of their MRPs. Nearly 400 people visit the Embassy of Pakistan every day for various services, including renewal of their national ID cards and passports. Since a large number of the 250,000 Pakistanis in Oman are blue collar workers, they may still find it more convenient to visit the embassy for the renewal of their passport.

The Embassy of Pakistan has decided to set up separate sections for visa and consular services when it moves to its new premises in Azaiba on December 1.

Social platforms, such as the Pakistan Social Club (PSC) Oman, have welcomed the move to facilitate online registration, but knowing the difficulties involved in the process they are thinking

of making it easier for community members, particularly those from Salalah, Sohar and Buraimi.

“PSC is aware of the practical problems and is thinking of facilitating the process by appointing an official with the required facilities in its regional offices so help our countrymen with the online procedures,” Mohammed Zaeem Akhter informed the Times of Oman.

“Online renewal will actually help those residing in other cities or remote areas of Oman. The PSC Welfare Committee led by Fazal Hussain helps bring a bus full of Pakistanis from Salalah every week just for their passport renewals and other consular services. We do the same for Pakistanis in other areas, especially Buraimi.

We also facilitate the Embassy of Pakistan’s officials’ quarterly visits to the interior areas of Oman to help our community members there,” Akhter added.

C A M PA I G N

to A1 Plan create a < FROM

big Mural “We will be encouraging all our clubs, players, teams and fans to sign up and create the biggest Mural that Oman has ever seen. Our thanks go to our Media partner and to all who follow and love football in Oman.”

To sign up for the Mural (and to enter the competition to win prizes), fans of football simply need to head to the dedicated website - timesofoman.com/extra/ ilovethesultan/ Anyone who registers will also be entered into the biggest-ever prize draw from Muscat Media Group (MMG) with OMR25,000 of gifts to be won.

These include a brand new Nissan Xtrail, diamonds, several iPhone7s, a luxury family holiday thanks to the major sponsorship partners including Suhail Bahwan automobile, Malabar Gold & Diamonds and Sheraton Oman hotel.

The OFA will be offering some extra prizes to those who register and will be supporting the promotion across their social media pages.

OMAN ENERGY INDUSTRY-ACADEMIA R&D SUMMIT 2016

Oman needs to leverage R&D into practice: Restucci SYED HAITHAM HASAN

haitham@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman has considerable opportunities to leverage research and development (R&D) into practical research in sectors where it possesses a competitive advantage, according to Raoul Restucci, managing director, Petroleum Development of Oman (PDO).

Speaking at the Oman Energy Industry-Academia R&D Summit 2016, Restucci pointed out the R&D potential for sectors, such as energy, tourism and logistics.

“We need to leverage R&D into practice in sectors we have competitive advantage in and where it can make a real difference in employment. We have to concentrate on sectors where research can be carried out in the field itself instead of just in labs.”

Integration Restucci also mentioned that different organisations haven’t been able to integrate yet in the way most had planned, and growth

We have to concentrate on sectors where research can be carried out in the field itself instead of just in laboratories Raoul Restucci MD, Petroleum Development of Oman

in R&D certainly hasn’t been up to the mark, but the sector holds great promise.

He also expressed the opportunities available for R&D in sec-

tors that will be a challenge in the future.

“We have been doing great work in diversifying the economy, but that needs energy, which is a major

challenge. Another important issue is water supply, which would be the biggest challenge for the next 20 years. These are sectors where R&D can develop.”

The panel discussions in the summit highlighted Oman’s R&D ecosystem, the challenges it faces currently, and solutions. Dr. Hilal Al Hinai, secretary general at The Research Council highlighted the importance Public-Private-Partnerships (PPPs) to develop the R&D centre.

Public-Private-Partnerships “We need to develop an efficient system of communication between government, industry and academia. Public-Private-Partnerships are very important as they link the industry with academia, facilitated by the government,” he said.

He also noted that as oil and gas will be the spine of the economy for many years to come, therefore the most appropriate vehicle for R&D is Enhanced Oil Recovery, adding that Oman needs to start with that as an R&D base and build around it.

Dr. Rahma Al Maharouqi, deputy vice chancellor of PostGraduate Studies and Research at the Sultan Qaboos University and

one of the panellists, explained the proactive approach adopted by SQU this year in reaching out to the industry and creating awareness about R&D facilities available at the university and its readiness to take up industry projects.

However, an audience poll suggested a public perception that academia is not structured for applied research, with 39 per cent of the population voting for the option, while the remaining 61 per cent were divided among four other options.

According to Restucci, industries in the past have been classified about most information, but are now actively sharing the knowledge.

Employment He said employment must be the driving factor to accelerate R&D growth in Oman. Steve Kelly, president and general manager at Occidental Oman also echoed these views, saying that research must be focused in areas that have a local supply chain to boost employment and new opportunities.

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016 I hope the economy will recover soon and so we don’t have to think of all these measures to generate more money in the economy Ahmed Al Hooti, an OCCI member

OMAN N E W TA X E S

< FROM

A1 ‘Economic activity shows signs of slowing down’ Migrant workers help produce and export new goods, in addition to implementing various mega projects in infrastructure and other sectors,” he stated.

Reacting to Al Zadjali’s statement, Ahmed Al Hooti, an OCCI (Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry) member said this is not the right time to impose taxes on expats as they are helping and working in our society.

“I hope the economy will recover soon and so we don’t have to think of all these measures to generate more money in the economy,” he said.

Javed Sheikh, a Pakistani businessman living in Oman, said: “This is actually good news for

expats, no remittance tax means people from our community can send more money to our home country and help provide for their families living back home, because a lot of them are living here, but have families back home as they do not earn enough to bring their families here. It is a good decision and we are grateful for what Oman is doing.”

According to Maaz Firdous, a consultant at Al Iskaan Engineering Consultancy, if such a tax is levied it would affect people with low income dramatically and unnecessarily increase their problems. “ If applied, the tax would become a major source of trouble for work-

ers who want to earn less. These are the people, who according to Omani law, can’t keep their families in Oman and therefore send most of their money back home.

Taxing them isn’t the right thing to do anyway.”

He added that taxes should be imposed on people earning higher incomes, instead of bothering people who are struggling to earn a living.

Prefer to stay Deepal Pallegangoda, country manager of SriLankan Airlines in Muscat, said Oman needs expats.

“Now many people will prefer to stay in this country, as we all love Oman,” he said.

Commenting on the economic activity front of the Sultanate, CBO Chief Al Zadjali said the Sultanate is witnessing a slowdown in economic activity. The latest available data for the first quarter of this year indicates a continuing decline in GDP due to the steep drop in value added petroleum activities and given the continuing low levels of oil prices.

Al Zadjali said some non-oil sectors have managed to grow at different rates, but the significant decrease in the added value of the wholesale and retail sectors and the manufacture of basic chemicals had led to a slight decline in the total added value generated from these activities.

He stressed that competent authorities are in the process of drafting a new investment law in the Sultanate, which is expected to be more liberal and flexible, to will make it easier to do business in Oman.

Balanced policy He further noted that the government has adopted the initiative to pursue a balanced policy in terms of spending and diversifying its funding resources in order to deal with the deficit in the general budget and current account, which has led to maintaining the liquidity of the local banks at appropriate levels, as well as to get the much needed external financing.

69% of people in Sultanate use personal vehicles Ninety-four per cent of Omanis use personal vehicles to reach their destinations; 57 per cent as drivers and 37 per cent as passengers

MUSCAT: Sixty-nine per cent of the Sultanate’s population (Omanis and expats) use their personal vehicles to get to their destinations- whether they are drivers or passengers.

The survey was conducted by the National Center for Statistics and Information on the satisfaction of beneficiaries of land transport services users .

Seventeen per cent of the road users use taxis to reach their destinations and 9 per cent use employers’ buses and marginal percentage use other transportation means.

Personal vehicles Ninety-four per cent of Omanis use personal vehicles to reach their destinations; 57 per cent as drivers and 37 per cent as passengers. 49 per cent of expats use personal vehicles; 31 per cent as drivers and 18 per cent as passengers.

The survey pointed out that 27

per cent of expats use taxis compared to 4 per cent by Omanis.

Gender-wise, 19 per cent of males and 13 per cent of females use taxis. 21 per cent of those having less than secondary education use taxis.

62 per cent of the road users use personal vehicles to reach their work compared to 13 per cent for other purposes, such as shopping and 12 per cent for visiting families and friends.

Some also use personal vehicles for study, special family errands, hospital, recreation and tourism. -ONA

Al Zadjali concluded that with economic diversification initiatives going forward in various sectors of the economy, including the strengthening of the role of the private sector and stimulating foreign investment, as well as continuing government spending on strategic projects, Oman’s economy will be able, in the foreseeable future to bring about a structural change in its activities.

This, he said, will enable it to achieve a concrete increase in the government’s non-oil revenue and be able to increase non-oil exports, and thus adapt more smoothly to the developments in global oil prices and achieve more sustainable growth rates.

WORK PROGRESS

Municipality members inspect airport Times News Service MUSCAT: In coordination with the personnel of the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Members of Muscat Municipality Council visited the New Muscat International Airport Project to acquaint themselves with the work progress.

The members were briefed on the project by Engineer Salim Al Romhi Engineer in-charge of package 3 of the project.

He said that the project has a runway of 4 X 75 metres. The project comprises various lounges to accommodate a large number of passengers for each flight.

He said that the Ministry of Transport and Communications has successfully inaugurated Salalah Airport as part of the construction of new airports projects in Oman.

There were three regional airports established by the Ministry; Sohar Airport, Duqm Airport and Ras Al Hadd Airport of which phase one and two have been completed, he said, adding that “construction work is going on in the passengers building at Muscat International Airport Project”.

The members toured the various sections of the project to acquaint themselves with the modern facilities of the project.

M I N I S T R Y O F A G R I C U LT U R E A N D F I S H E R I E S

Omani Dates Festival from October 23 MUSCAT: As part of the care provided by the Sultanate’s government to developing the date palm sector and in response to the recommendation of Saih Al Shamikhat Symposium which was held in 2011, the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries organised a number of agricultural festival and markets, such as Omani Dates Festival, Rutab market, Omani Honey Market, animal products

markets, rural woman products markets and other.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in collaboration with the Public Authority for SMEs Development “ Riyada’ will organise the fourth Omani Dates Festival during the period from October 23 to 31, 2016.

Dr. Ahmed bin Nasser Al Bakri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries said

that the fourth Omani Dates Festival aims at highlighting the nutritional and health values of the Omani dates.

It also seeks to enhance cultural and heritage awareness of the status of date palm tree for the Omani man.

The festival also aims at enhancing competition among farmers in caring for date palm trees and encouraging investment

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W O M E N ’ S D AY

A1 ‘SalamAir to offer competitive prices in all sectors’ < FROM

Speaking about expected fares to Dubai, he said: “Not as a ‘standard’ average fare since the airport taxes in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) are quite high and have increased (Base fare is not higher, but the amount to be paid is slightly higher due to taxes that we have to transfer to the authorities). But again, remember that you’ll always have a ‘promotional fare’ available, which will come in general lower than this.”

However, at all times, SalamAir will offer competitive fares in all sectors of its network, CEO Bouteiller asserted.

SalamAir plans to connect Muscat with Salalah with four flights a day, besides flying to Dubai and Jeddah, initially.

It is also looking at launching flights to East Africa and the Indian subcontinent.

The launch of the budget airline may bring down fares in some sectors. “Why pay for something which you don’t need? That’s the

in the field to increase local production and improve the quality.

The festival also seeks to market date palm products in a bid to increase the income of farmers and contribute to the growth of national economy.

He added that the ministry plays an important role in developing the date palm sector by adopting modern trends in caring for date palm trees. -ONA

idea. Suppose if you are going to Salalah and you are not carrying a suitcase, then we will offer you a discounted or an interesting price,” CEO Bouteiller had said earlier.

Licence Awarded its air service operator licence by the Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) in early 2016, SalamAir’s fleet of three Airbus A320s is scheduled to take to the skies at the end of the year. The brainchild of ASAAS— a national investment and development company—SalamAir was formed to meet Oman’s rapidly growing demand for air traffic, which is expected to grow by 40 per cent by 2019.

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Good presence of women in State Council MUSCAT: On the occasion of the Omani Women’s Day, the Research and Information Centre of the State Council said that the presence of women at the State Council has been distinguished since the first term 1997-2000 until the sixth term 2015-2019.

14 per cent The number of female members of the State Council stands at 14 or 17 per cent of the 84 members. The Centre pointed out that female members are taking part in the State Council’s events and its committees.

Besides being the deputy chairman of the State Council, women are also members at the education, social and economic research committee.

The statistical bulletin of the Centre also pointed out that 39 employees or 27 per cent of the total number of employees at the State council are females who occupy different positions at the different departments. -ONA

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

A7

REGION Iraqi, Kurdish forces advance on Mosul Residents said IS militants were preventing people fleeing the city and directed some towards buildings they had recently used themselves

BAGHDAD/ERBIL: Residents of Mosul said IS was using civilians as human shields as Iraqi and Kurdish forces captured outlying villages in their advance on the militants’ stronghold.

The leader of IS was reported to be among thousands of hardline militants still in the city, suggesting the group would go to great lengths to repel the coalition.

With attacking forces still between 20 and 50km (12-30 miles) away, residents reached by telephone said more than 100 families had started moving from southern and eastern suburbs most exposed to the offensive to more central parts of the city.

IS militants were preventing people fleeing Mosul, they said, and one said they directed some towards buildings they had recently used themselves. “It’s quite clear Daesh (IS) has started to use civilians as human shields by allowing families to stay in buildings likely to be targeted by air strikes,” said Abu Mahir, who lives near the city’s university.

Like other residents contacted in the city, he refused to give his full name, but Abdul Rahman Waggaa, a member of the exiled Provincial Council of Nineveh of which Mosul is the capital, corroborated his account to Reuters.

Around 1.5 million people still live in Mosul and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) said IS may use tens of thousands of residents as human shields to hold onto their last city stronghold in Iraq.

The IOM said there was a like-

HEADING TOWARDS BATTLEFIELD: Iraqi security forces advance in Qayara, south of Mosul, to attack IS militants in Mosul, Iraq, on Tuesday. – Reuters

lihood of chemical attacks by the militants, who had used such weapons previously against Iraqi Kurdish forces.

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Al Abadi said safe routes had been secured for civilians who wanted to leave Mosul. Syria meanwhile accused the US-led coalition of planning to allow IS militants to flee across the border into Syria.

For US President Barack Obama, the campaign is a calculated risk. He is hoping to bolster his legacy by seizing back as much territory as he can from IS before he leaves office in January.

The Iraqi army and Peshmerga forces from autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan began moving towards the city at dawn on Monday under air cover from a US-led coalition set up after IS swept into Iraq from Syria in 2014.

Close cooperation Hoshiyar Zebari, a senior Kurdish official, said initial operations succeeded due to close cooperation between the Iraqi government and Kurdish peshmerga fighters, allowing them to clear IS from 9 or 10 villages east of Mosul.

“Daesh (IS) is disoriented they don’t know whether to expect attacks from the east or west or north,” he told Reuters.

On Tuesday the attacking forc-

NAT I O N W I D E C E S S AT I O N

Yemen ceasefire will bring relief to areas cut-off by fighting: UN SANAA: The United Nations is hoping a 72-hour ceasefire in Yemen due to start on Wednesday will allow vital aid to reach parts of the country that have been cut off by months of fighting and are in dire humanitarian need.

A ceasefire between warring factions in Yemen will begin at 2359 local time (2059 GMT) on Wednesday, the UN said on Monday, raising hopes of an end to a war in the country that has killed thousands of civilians and left people starving.

Aid agencies may try during the ceasefire to reach families trapped in towns and villages where fighting - and a sea, air and land blockade imposed by a Saudi-led coalition fighting in Yemen - has left people short of food and in need of vital medical supplies.

“Hopefully this nationwide cessation will provide humanitarian agencies and organizations the opportunity to respond in areas that have been cut off or are hard to reach in all of Yemen,” Jamie McGoldrick, the UN’s Yemen Humanitarian Coordinator, told Reuters.

McGoldrick said he hoped the cessation of hostilities would be extended and would herald a resumption of peace talks that collapsed in August.

Saudi Arabia and several allies have carried out air strikes and deployed troops in Yemen in support of the exiled Yemeni government which was toppled by the Houthis in 2015.

The Houthis and their allies,

forces loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, hold most of Yemen’s northern half, while forces loyal to the Saudi-backed Yemeni government share control of the rest of the country with local tribes.

The 19-month conflict has excaberated Yemen’s already urgent humanitarian needs by increasing levels of malnutrition and recruitment of child soldiers and damaging schools and infrastructure.

On Monday, UN Special Envoy for Yemen Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed said the cessation of hostilities could be renewed after the initial three-day period, the United Nations said in statement.

“The Special Envoy welcomes the restoration of the Cessation of Hostilities, which will spare the Yemeni people further bloodshed and will allow for the expanded delivery of humanitarian assistance,” the statement said.

Earlier on Monday, Yemeni Foreign Minister Abdel Malek Al Mekhlafi said on his official Twitter feed that President Abdrabbo Mansour Hadi had agreed to a 72hour ceasefire with the possibility of it being extended.

“The President agreed to a 72 hrs ceasefire to be extended if the other party adheres to it, activates the DCC (De-escalation and Coordination Committee) and lifts the siege of Taiz,” he said.

The DCC is the United Nations-backed military commission responsible for overseeing ceasefires in Yemen. — Reuters

es entered another phase, Zebari said. “It won’t be a spectacular attack on Mosul itself. It will be very cautious. It is a high-risk operation for everybody.”

IS leader Abu Bakr Al Baghdadi, and explosives expert Fawzi Ali Nouimeh were both in the city, according to what Zebari described as “solid” intelligence reports.

A total of 20 villages were taken from the militants east, south and southeast of Mosul by early Tuesday, according to statements from the two forces, fighting alongside one another for the first time.

IS said on Monday its fighters had targeted the attacking forces with 10 suicide bombs and that their foes had surrounded five villages but not taken them. None of the reports could be independently verified.

Abadi announced the offensive on Monday around two years after Iraq’s second-largest city fell to the militants, who exploited the civil war that broke out in Syria in 2011 to seize territory there.

The United Nations has said up to a million people could flee the city and that it expected the first big wave in five or six days, indicating fighting would reach the city then. But some residents said IS was making sure people did not leave. One, who gave his name as Anwar, said he fled the Sumer dis-

trict near Mosul airport, fearing ground forces and aerial bombing.

“I told Daesh (IS) fighters at a checkpoint ‘I’m going to stay at my sister’s house’,” he said. “A Daesh (IS) fighter made calls through his radio to make sure I was not lying and only after the voice on the other side said ‘Let him go’, did I let myself breathe.”

Fighting is expected to take weeks, if not months, as 30,000 government forces, tribal fighters and Kurdish Peshmerga first encircle the city then attempt to oust between 4,000 and 8,000 IS militants.

More than 5,000 US soldiers are also deployed in support missions, as are troops from France, Britain, Canada and other Western nations. The Iraqi army is attacking Mosul on the southern and southeastern fronts, while the Peshmerga carried out their operation to the east and are also deployed north and northwest.

The Kurdish forces said they secured “a significant stretch” of the 80km (50 mile) road between Erbil, their capital, and Mosul, about an hour’s drive to the west.

Coalition warplanes attacked 17 IS positions in support of the Peshmerga operation in the heavily mined area, the Kurdish statement said, adding that at least four car bombs were destroyed. — Reuters

OPPOSITION LEADER

Bahraini court orders retrial of Al Wefaq chief DUBAI: A Bahraini court has overturned a nine-year prison term imposed on the country’s most prominent opposition leader.

In a public hearing on Monday, Bahrain’s court of cassation ordered a retrial of Sheikh Ali Salman, chief of the Al Wefaq Islamic

Society, according to Salman’s wife, Alya Radhi. Salman, who remains in custody, was convicted in May. No date or reason was given for Salman’s retrial, according to Radhi.

He was arrested in last December and was sentenced last June to four years in prison. — Reuters

A8

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

INDIA TRANSITION PHASE

India to help Myanmar in setting up democratic institutions: Pranab NEW DELHI: India will extend all help to Myanmar in setting up democratic institutions for ensuring stability in that country during transition phase, President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said welcoming the State Counsellor of the Republic of Myanmar Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi who is on her first state visit to India after assuming the charge called on president at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Welcoming the Nobel laureate, the president said India and Myanmar are close neighbours and have a good long standing relationship with each other.

“He wished Myanmar all success in establishing a strong democracy. He stated that Myanmar’s transition to full democracy will take time to achieve and India stands by Myanmar in this process,” a statement from Press Secretary to the president Venu

Rajamony said. It said the president congratulated Suu Kyi on her landmark victory in the elections held in November, 2015.

“He said that he was happy that the process of democratisation was being strengthened in Myanmar. India will extend all help to Myanmar in this phase of transition in order to set up democratic institutions for ensuring stability in the country,” the statement said.

Suu Kyi stated that change does not happen easily and Myanmar has to go about the process of transition in a cautious manner, it said.

She said Myanmar seeks the cooperation and support of India as its people look forward to progress and change for the betterment of their lives.

The president said India appreciates the spirit with which the people of Myanmar have responded in the general elections and the manner in which the whole

process of elections has been steered, it said.

“The president said that India will soon commence work on restoring two old temples and inscriptions of King Mindon and Bay Gyi Daw in Bodh Gaya as requested by the Government of Myanmar. He said that this task will be undertaken by the Archaeological Survey of India with financial support from Government of India,” the statement said.

Earlier, Suu Kyi placed a wreath at Rajghat and was given a ceremonial welcome.

Suu Kyi had arrived in Goa on October 16 to attend BRICSBIMSTEC outreach meet where she said,”Our region is confronted by numerous challenges including security threats including rising terrorism, violent extremism, climate change, natural and manmade disasters and even the danger of nuclear proliferation.” - PTI

ELATED: President Pranab Mukherjee with Myanmar’s State Counsellor and Foreign Minister Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi, on Tuesday. - PTI

Terrorism has become truly global challenge: Sushma very much dependent on continued peace and security.

“Terrorism was universally recognised as a key threat to stability, progress and development. Consequently, it featured strongly in the conference narrative and its eventual outcome.

“Indeed, what we saw was not just an understanding of the dangers posed by terrorism to the economic aspirations of the world but a growing recognition that this has now become a truly global challenge that the international community can only ignore at its peril,” she said.

External affairs minister said there is a need to extract costs from those who sponsor and support terrorists and provide them sanctuary and continue to make the ‘false distinction’ between ‘good and bad terrorists’

NEW DELHI: Amid criticism that India failed to obtain consensus on reference to cross-border terrorism in BRICS declaration, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday said threat of terror featured strongly in the narrative of the summit and there was a growing recognition that it has become a truly global challenge.

Two days after the BRICS Summit in the west Indian Goa state where India’s forcefully highlighted terror emanating from across the border, she said there was

MAKING A POINT: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday said threat of terror featured strongly in the narrative of the BRICS Summit and there was a growing recognition that it has become a truly global challenge. - Reuters file photo

no bigger global challenge than “state-sponsored” and “state-protected terrorism, asserting those supporting terror networks must be made to pay the cost.

Swaraj said there is a need to extract costs from those who sponsor and support terrorists and provide them sanctuary and continue to make the “false distinction” between “good and bad terrorists”.

Swaraj was delivering an address at the BRICS media forum. In an obvious reference

to Pakistan blocking several pacts on transport and connectivity, Swaraj referred to growing cooperation on these issues among BIMSTEC nations, noting “There cannot be a greater contrast with those who reject even trade and connectivity for political reasons.”

On deliberations at the BRICS, Swaraj said while the economic engagement and political cooperation remained key factors, there was a sharp realisation that global development and prosperity was

Criticism There was criticism of the government after consensus eluded on reference to cross-border terror in BRICS declaration. Without naming any country, Swaraj said there has always been an overarching political context for the BRICS meetings which essentially underlines that a serious global discourse cannot be the “preserve” of a few countries with a “narrow agenda”.

“There is a developing consensus that it cannot be business as usual. We must be prepared to extract costs for those who sponsor and support terrorists, who provide them sanctuary, and who, despite their own claimed victimhood, continue to make the false distinction between good and bad terrorists.

“BRICS has always been global

in its approach and today, there is no bigger global challenge than state-sponsored and state-protected terrorism,” she said.

Swaraj said members of BIMSTEC — Bhutan, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand — represented the “polar opposite” of a terrorism “promoting polity”.

“They are focused on improving the quality of life of their people, on skills and employment, on education and health, and on the quality of governance and the deepening of democracy.

“These are nations who are actively promoting connectivity, cooperation and contacts amongst themselves. Their interface with the BRICS has a message in itself.

This is that a world changing in a positive direction as reflected by the BRICS has its regional expression in a community like BIMSTEC that is able to visualize a prosperous collective future,” Swaraj said.

On India’s chairmanship of BRICS, Swaraj said “we took the BRICS outside the conference room and endeavoured to instill it in popular thinking.”

Talking about major initiatives

by BRICS, she said the summit represented a further advancement in terms of the breadth and focus of its discussions, adding the grouping has transformed over the years. Swaraj said a total of 115 events were organised in the nine months of India’s chairmanship of the bloc. - PTI

T H R E E - D AY M E E T

GST Council discusses 4-tier tax rate, cess on demerit goods NEW DELHI: A four-slab GST tax structure of 6, 12, 18 and 26 per cent with lower rates for essential items and the highest for luxury goods that will also be levied with an additional cess was mooted on Tuesday at the GST Council meet.

With a view to keep inflation under check, the proposal sponsored by the Centre proposed to continue exempting food items from tax as well as keep 50 per cent of the common use goods in either exempt category or lower band.

Also, 70 per cent of the items is proposed to be governed by 18 per cent of lower GST rate.

But ultra-luxury items like highend cars and demerit goods like tobacco, cigarettes, aerated drinks, luxury car and polluting items would attract an additional cess on top of the 26 per cent GST rate.

A 4 per cent GST rate was suggested on gold.

FMCG and consumer durable products would attract 26 per cent GST rate, against the current incidence of around 31 per cent.

The all-powerful GST Council, headed by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, on Day 1 of its three-day meet reached consensus on the formula for payment of compensation to states from any loss of revenue from implementation of Goods and Service Tax (GST) in the first five years beginning April 1, 2017. - PTI

ODISHA

Medical facility at Sum Hospital sealed after fire claimed 22 lives BHUBANESWAR: A day after a major fire at a hospital here claimed 22 lives, ravaged areas of the medical facility were sealed on Tuesday ahead of a thorough probe as the state government geared up to ensure proper treatment of patients shifted elsewhere.

Health Secretary Arti Ahuja, who visited the private hospital on Tuesday morning, said the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), dialysis and emergency units of the firehit medical facility have been sealed to ensure a proper investigation. As many as 106 persons, who were shifted from Sum Hospital following the blaze, are now undergoing treatment at different hospitals in the city, she said.

Some patients have also been shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital at Cuttack. Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik visited some of the hospitals including AIIMS and AMRI Hospital here to enquire about the condition of the patients from Sum Hospital undergoing treatment there.

State’s Health Minister Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak said the priority was to provide proper treatment to the patients from the firehit hospital who have been shifted to other medical facilities. At the same time, steps are being initiated to conduct a thorough investigation into the fire that broke out Monday night, he said.

The state government has already ordered a high-level probe

RESCUE OPERATION: Rescue work underway at the Institute of Medical Sciences and Sum Hospital in Bhubaneswar where a fire broke out on Monday night. - PTI

by the Director, Medical Education and Training, into the incident. In addition, a probe by the revenue divisional commissioner (RDC) has also been ordered, an official said.

Soon after the incident, the health minister had said on Monday night that stringent action would be taken if the hospital authorities were found guilty of negligence. While 22 persons died, several others were injured in the incident that broke out at a dialysis unit of the private hospital, in one of the worst such incidents involving a medical facility in Odisha.

So far, 20 of the deceased have been identified and their bodies handed over to their families for cremation, an official said.

Most of the victims were from the ICU of the Sum Hospital who were receiving ventilatory support. Most of the deaths took place due to suffocation, he said.

The chief minister has directed the government hospitals to provide necessary treatment to patients shifted from Sum Hospital and requested all private hospitals to extend treatment to patients from ill-fated medical facility. The blaze was suspected to have been triggered by an electric short circuit in the dialysis ward on the first floor of the private hospital which spread to the nearby ICU. The fire rapidly spread to other areas including the ICU on the same floor of the four-storeyed hospital building. - PTI

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PAKISTAN

Pakistan’s new air carrier to start flying by year-end Serene Air would begin operations on domestic routes

by November or December 2016, as per its plan submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority

KARACHI: Serene Air has been granted a licence by the air travel authority to establish a private airline in Pakistan, said sources in the aviation industry.

LICENCE GRANTED: The Civil Aviation Authority grants licence to Serene Air that will buy five Boeing 737-800s. - Express Tribune/Twitter

The airline would begin operations on domestic routes by November or December 2016, as per its plan submitted to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), stated a source, who remained involved in the developments.

“The authority granted Serene Air a licence in March 2016 to

establish the airline with headquarters in Pakistan, however, the company has not yet been granted the Air Operator Certificate that will allow it to fly,” he said.

“The grant of the certificate is linked with the acquisition of aircraft mentioned in the business plan.” He said airline officials

were expected to fly to the United States to acquire five Boeing 737800s, which would be bought with the approval of CAA officials .“The 737-800 is the latest aircraft of Boeing company.”

As per rules, the company is required to have at least three aircraft to establish an airline.

Serene Air will fly on almost all domestic routes, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta and Multan.

CAA rules say the airline can apply for an international licence if it successfully operates on domestic routes for over a year.

At present, there are three airlines that are already flying on domestic routes, of which one is state-owned – Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

The remaining two — Airblue and Shaheen Air — belong to the private sector.

Federation of Pakistan Cham-

ELECTED UNOPPOSED

Nawaz re-elected PML-N president ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was elected unopposed as president of Pakistan Muslim League-N on Tuesday.

Six party leaders were elected as senior vice presidents, i.e. Raja Zafarul Haq as party chairman, while Sartaj Aziz, Sir Anjaam Khan, Sikandar Hayat, Changez Khan Mari, Imdad Hussain Chandio and Yaqoub Nasir.

Meanwhile, Pervaiz Rashid was elected as secretary finance, whereas Mushahidullah as secretary information. Addressing the party’s central council meeting, the premier said he had always ‘desired’ to serve Pakistan.“ Pakistan is changing for the better. By building numerous road networks across the country, we

Nawaz Sharift. – AFP File

are the ones making ‘Naya Pakistan’,” he said.

Taking a jibe at opposition parties, the prime minister said “Political jokers are misleading peo-

ple, but we remain unmoved.”

The ruling party in Khyber-Pakthunkhwa will soon lose its hold in the region, he added. Although the PML-N’s scheduled intra-

A9

party polls did not appear to be something out of the ordinary, the timeline; however, mattered a lot.

PTI has rolled up its sleeves to take on the federal government in general, and prime minister in particular, on November 2, promising to bring all activity in the federal capital to a grinding halt.

Insiders in the PML-N believed the gravity of the situation prompted the ruling party to hold intra-party elections.

“This is an activity better left for ‘lean days’,” commented a party bigwig involved in the intraparty elections.

“Not to be done when you are in the eye of the storm,” the party stalwart, who wished to remain anonymous, said. - Express Tribune

bers of Commerce and Industry Standing Committee on Aviation Chairman Muhammad Yahya Polani said Pakistan’s aviation industry had a huge potential.

“Pakistan should launch more airlines on domestic routes as the availability of more air carriers will spark true competition and benefit passengers with lower fares and improved service quality,” he said.

“All the three airlines operating on the domestic routes have less than 100 aircraft combined, which are below the required number to serve the nation with an estimated population of 220 million,” said Polani.

“The Turkish Airline has more than 300 aircraft for a population of 75 million. It covers over 1,500 destinations every day and what’s more is that its private sector airlines have even greater number of aircraft.” - Express Tribune

PROBE ORDERED

Pilot killed as PAF Mirage jet crashes in Karachi KARACHI: A pilot of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) was killed on Tuesday as his Mirage jet crashed near Karachi’s Musharraf Colony.

According to Squadron leader Baqir Ali, PAF Mirage jet bearing tale number 921 took off from Masroor Base, before it crashed near Musharraf Colony. The pilot died on the spot, police officials stated.

“A Mirage plane crashed near Musharraf colony,” Senior Superintendent Police city confirmed.

“The pilot ejected from the aircraft and sustained fatal injuries,” PAF spokesperson said in a statement, adding that though the pilot did not survive himself, he “succeeded in saving precious lives on ground.” “No loss of civilian life or property has been reported. A board of inquiry has been ordered

by Air Headquarters to determine the cause of the accident,” the statement read. - Express Tribune

A 10

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

WORLD

Citing a Taliban official, the Guardian said a senior American diplomat was present at the meetings in Qatar, where the extremist group has a diplomatic office

R E L AT I O N S H I P R E - E X A M I N E D

Americans in Philippines jittery as Duterte rails against United States OLONGAPO (Philippine): In a bar along the Philippines’ Subic Bay owned by an American military veteran, the main topic of conversation is not the upcoming US election despite the Donald Trump coffee mugs, photographs and caps on display.

The talk is of Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte’s tensions with Washington and his courting of China, which is worrying the bar’s mostly American clients who have settled in the vicinity of the huge Subic Bay base, a former US navy installation.

“The biggest fear is that one day he’s going to wake up and say ‘everybody from the US, get out of town’ and we’d have to leave our loved ones behind,” said Jack Walker, a retired Marine sergeant who has lived in Olongapo, the town around the base, for five years.

For more than a century the Philippines and the United States have had a shared history of colonialism, wars, rebellion, aid and deep economic ties.

That could change as Duterte’s three-month-old administration re-examines the relationship.

In a series of conflicting statements, Duterte has insulted US President Barack Obama and the US ambassador in Manila for questioning his war on drugs, which has led to the deaths of more than 2,000 suspected users and pushers. He hurled abuses to Obama and alluded to severing ties with Washington.

Then, after weeks of anti-American rhetoric, Duterte said the Philippines would maintain its existing defence treaties and its military alliances.

Filipinos trust US much more than China: Survey

DRILL: US military forces cross a flooded area near the shore dur-

ing the annual Philippines-US amphibious landing exercise (PHIBLEX) at San Antonio, Zambales province, Philippines on October 7, 2016. - Reuters/Romeo Ranoco file

The comments have left Americans and US businesses in the Philippines jittery about their future, said Ebb Hinchliffe, executive director of the American Chamber of Commerce.

“Every time he opens his mouth and says something negative about America, that hurts me personally... and from a business standpoint, it’s not helping,” he said.

He said three trade delegations representing American technology, financial services and manufacturing companies had cancelled trips to the Philippines in recent weeks. At least two American companies have opted to do business in Vietnam instead “because of the president’s anti-American sentiment”.

Hinchliffe declined to name the companies or give further details.

The United States effectively

ruled the Philippines from 1898, when it acquired the country from Spain, until recognising its independence in 1946.

About four million people of Philippine ancestry live in the United States, one of its largest minorities, and about 220,000 Americans, many of them military veterans, live in the Philippines.

An additional 650,000 visit each year, according to US State Department figures. According to a Pew Research Centre study last year, the Philippines is the most pro-US country in the world.

Despite the shared history, though, the Philippines has a strong nationalistic movement that has questioned the US alliance. In 1991, the government asked Washington to vacate the Subic Bay naval facility and the nearby Clark Air Base.

MANILA: People in the Philippines still trust the United States far more than China, an opinion poll showed on Tuesday, despite President Rodrigo Duterte’s recent outpouring of anti-American rhetoric and his sudden overtures towards Beijing.

Though trust in both countries had declined slightly since the last survey in June, a Social Weather Stations poll from September 24 to 27

But as tensions increased with China over the territorial dispute in the South China Sea, the Philippines signed an Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States in 2014 that grants Washington increased military presence through rotation of ships and aircraft for humanitarian and maritime security operations.

However, Duterte has said that agreement will be reviewed and he insists that the Philippines, the third-largest Asian recipient of American military aid after Pakistan and Afghanistan, can do without assistance.

He was to leave for China on Tuesday on a state visit that could shift alliances in the region.

Philippine government officials have sought to play down Duterte’s comments.

“Where the president is coming

showed 55 per cent of Filipinos had “little trust” in China, versus 11 per cent who had doubts about the US. Just over threequarters, or 76 per cent, of the 1,200 respondents had “much trust” in the United States, compared to 22 per cent who felt the same about China. The poll did not ask respondents to explain their views.

The last SWS poll showed an 81 per cent rating of “much trust” for the United States

from is that he wants to encourage the Filipino people to be more independent,” said government spokesman Ernesto Abella. “It’s not so much an anti-American relationship as a pro-Philippine sentiment.” Still, the mood was sombre at Dynamite Dick’s bar in Olongapo when a Reuters reporter dropped in recently.

Edward Pooley, a former Marine colonel who has lived in the Philippines for nearly 30 years, said Duterte’s words were “heartbreaking” but he remained optimistic about the bilateral relationship in the long term.

“We’ve always done a lot of charitable activities and... we feel the appreciation. Don’t give up on us,” he said. The mayor of the city of 220,000, Rolen Paulino, said his people were “pro-American” but that he supports Duterte’s shift

Thai ‘roadmap’ to democratic rule unchanged by king’s death Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha also moved to quash uncertainty around the royal succession, saying that a new monarch could ascend to the throne after 15 days of mourning

BANGKOK: Thailand’s junta sought on Tuesday to reassure the country that the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej last week would not upend plans for a return to democratic rule, which include a general election in late 2017.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chanocha also moved to quash uncertainty around the royal succession, saying that a new monarch could ascend to the throne after 15 days of mourning.

Doubts arose after the head of the advisory Privy Council was asked to stand in as regent until Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn becomes king. The prime minister

OFFERING CONDOLENCES: A mourner holds up a picture of Thailand’s late King Bhumibol Adulyadej as she waits in line to offer condolences at the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand, on Tuesday. - Reuters

said last week that the prince’s coronation would take place after the cremation of his father, which will follow a year of mourning.

Cooling speculation However, the prince can become king before his official coronation, and Prayuth’s comments appeared to be aimed at cooling speculation that the throne might be empty for a protracted period.

King Bhumibol was seen as a stabilising figure in a country often racked by political turmoil.

“On the matter of succession, in accordance with the constitution, citizens in Thailand and abroad should not be worried or concerned,” Prayuth told reporters after Tuesday’s cabinet meeting.

“After at least 15 days of mourning, it will be the appropriate time to enact section 23 of the constitution,” he added, referring to clauses relating to the succession.

The junta, which seized power in a 2014 coup, has laid out a ‘roadmap’ for a return to democracy under a constitution that was en-

dorsed by a referendum in August, with an election that would be held late next year.

There had been speculation that the election might be pushed into 2018 because of the one year of mourning for the king. “Nothing has changed,” Prayuth said.

“The policies of this government, the laws — including elections — will be according to the roadmap. Don’t ask me when or how it will occur, the roadmap is the roadmap.”

The government says the consti-

tution will restore stable, clean politics after a decade of turmoil stemming from confrontation between populist political forces and the military-royalist establishment. Two military takeovers and outbreaks of deadly civil unrest over the years have stunted growth in Southeast Asia’s second-biggest economy.

Critics, including major political parties, had denounced the constitution before the vote, saying it would stifle democracy by giving unelected lawmakers, including those appointed by the military, veto power over elected governments. The death of the revered king after seven decades on the throne has raised sensitivities across the nation.

The government has tightened restrictions on the media and on Tuesday said it would ask other countries to extradite people suspected of insulting the nation’s monarchy. Criticism of the monarch, the regent or the heir, known by the French term lese majeste, is a crime that carries a jail sentence of up to 15 years in Thailand.

Justice Minister Paiboon Koomchaya told reporters the government was tracking six high-profile lese majeste suspects living abroad, but conceded that there were significant legal and diplomatic challenges around seeking their extradition. The junta has urged citizens to report cases of lese majeste to authorities, and is has also asked internet service providers to monitor content and block inappropriate material. - Reuters

with just nine percent having “little trust”.

Feelings about China were better at that time, with 27 per cent having high trust and 51 per cent little trust. That poll, conducted after Duterte’s election but prior to his taking office, preceded a July ruling by an arbitration court in the Hague that dealt a blow to China’s vast territorial claims in the South China Sea, in a case brought by Manila. - Reuters

in foreign policy. “If the president wants to invite Russia and China...I will teach my people Russian and Chinese because we have to adapt,” Paulino said. But many in the business community have labelled Duterte’s rhetoric as largely bluster and take comfort in the fact that he has yet to translate it into action.

The business process outsourcing (BPO) sector — expected to account for 9 per cent of GDP this year — remains largely optimistic about growth in the Philippines.

“Suffice to say, there are questions that are being asked because of (Duterte’s) statements,” said Danilo Reyes, country manager of Genpact, one of the biggest American BPO companies in the country. “But it does not really translate to actions, we continue to expand.” - Reuters REPORT

Taliban restart secret talks with Afghanistan in Qatar ISLAMABAD: The Taliban and the Afghan government restarted secret peace talks in September and have held two rounds of discussions in Qatar, Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing anonymous sources.

Citing a Taliban official, the Guardian said a senior American diplomat was present at the meetings in Qatar, where the extremist group has a diplomatic office. The newspaper said the talks were attended also by Mullah Abdul Manan, the brother of Afghan Taliban founder, Mullah Mohammad Omar, who died in 2013.

Officials in Kabul could not be immediately reached for comment. Previous Pakistan-brokered peace talks yielded little progress and ground to a complete halt when the United States killed former Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour in a drone strike in Pakistan in May. Under new Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhundzada fighting has raged across Afghanistan during the summer months, with the Taliban attacking the northern city of Kunduz and threatening Helmand’s provincial capital Lashkar Gah. No Pakistani official took part in the latest talks, according to the Guardian. - Reuters

PROLONGED DRY SPELL

In parched Sri Lanka, biggest shortage is of water policy, say experts MAHASENPURA(Sri Lanka): In this village in southern Sri Lanka’s Hambantota District, water sales are big business.

Beset by a prolonged dry spell and day-time temperatures reaching above 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Farenheit), the village has seen all of its wells run dry.

Water arrives once every three days in the form of a free government tanker, but it’s not always enough to last. Buying a tanker of water privately costs Rs5,000 ($34), more than most people can pay.

Instead the village’s farmers and traders buy their water in one-litre bottles from small-scale vendors who charge four to 10 rupees a litre (less than one US cent) for drinking water brought from about 30 kilometres away.

“We buy drinking water, and try to use other sources for cooking and washing,” said Sarath Mahanama, one villager.

Those other sources include the muddy puddle left in the bottom of a nearly empty nearby water reservoir. Mahasenpura is not alone in its shortages.

Nine districts in Sri Lanka’s Southern, Northern, North Eastern and southeastern Uva provinces have been hit by drought.

According to the National Disaster Management Centre, by midOctober over 875,000 people were being provided with government tanker water in these areas.

The worst hit area, where over 160,000 people are currently dependent on water brought in from outside, is north-central Polonnaruwa District.

“This is what we undergo every year. After the floods, there will be a drought and we are almost dying of thirst,” said Tissa Poddibanda, a villager from the Lankapura area.

Lankapura is one of the worstaffected sites in the country, with close to 30,000 persons waiting for transported water.

As the weather becomes more extreme, Sri Lanka finds itself increasingly in a debilitating pattern of alternating between drought and floods — both of which can lead to shortages of clean water.

In May, large areas of the country were flooded which caused damages of more than $3 billion, according to the Finance Ministry.

Three months later drought hit.

While weather experts and policy makers increasingly see the worrisome pattern, potentially effective

national interventions are not yet in place, experts say.

Today, in some drought-hit areas of Sri Lanka, for instance, water remains in storage dams but officials are reluctant to release it, fearing there will not be enough irrigation water for farmers to plant in the next growing season that starts in November. The Parakarama Samudraya, the largest reservoir in northern Polonnaruwa District, is currently at about 50 per cent of capacity, officials say.

But government irrigation officials say they don’t want to release the waters — and the next wave of heavy rains is expected only in mid-November, with the onset of the Northeast monsoon season.

As competition for water grows, better cooperation is needed between the various government

agencies handling water to balance the needs of farmers, hydropower suppliers and household users, said S.L. Weerasinghe, directorgeneral of the national irrigation department.

“Right now there is very little coordination between various entities handling water, from power to agriculture. We need a much more cohesive water management policy to safely release water stored for agriculture,” Weerasinghe said.

Lack of public awareness about the extent of the country’s water problems - and how they might be better managed — is another problem, water management experts say. “We are not prepared to meet these impacts” of climate change, said Kusum Athukorala, who heads the Sri Lanka Water Partnership, a non-profit national

organisation working on water management. She said that since Sri Lanka’s devastating 2004 tsunami the island has upgraded and strengthened its disaster response capacity but hardly any work had been done on preparing for disasters and building public awareness about them.

Villagers such as Poddibanda, who are the mercy of changing rainfall patterns, have had little help in learning to manage water better, though it is crucial to their economic well being, experts say.

Poddibanda, like most farmers in water-short Lankapura, waits until he believes rains are close to arriving to prepare his paddy rice plot for cultivation— and he expects the government to provide free irrigation water, irrespective of rain and reservoir levels. - Reuters

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WIKILEAKS FOUNDER

Ecuador cuts Assange’s Internet access WASHINGTON: Anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks said late on Monday that its founder Julian Assange’s Internet was shut down by the government of Ecuador, deflecting blame from the US or British governments which have sparred with Assange for releasing sensitive material.

“We can confirm Ecuador cut off Assange’s Internet access on Saturday, 5pm GMT, shortly after publication of (Hillary) Clinton’s Goldman Sachs speechs (sic),” the statement from WikiLeaks said.

Assange has lived and worked in Ecuador’s London embassy since June 2012, having been granted asylum there after a British court ordered him extradited to Sweden to face questioning in a molestation case involving two female WikiLeaks supporters.

WikiLeaks said Assange lost Internet connectivity on Sunday night. “We have activated the appropriate contingency plans,” added the Twitter message on Monday. People close to WikiLeaks say that Assange himself is the principal operator of the website’s Twitter feed. The Ecuadoran government offered no immediate comment on the question of Internet access, but the country’s foreign minister, Guillaume Long, said Assange remained under government protection.

“The circumstances that led to the granting of asylum remain,” Long said in a statement late on Monday. The government of leftist President Rafael Correa has long backed Assange’s right to free speech, though the Wikileaks saga has caused some strain in relations with the United States, including the expulsion of diplomats in 2011. — Reuters

A11

WORLD Turkey to seek parliament’s vote on presidential system President Tayyip Erdogan has long wanted an executive presidency, a Turkish version of the system in the United States or France, saying the country needs strong leadership.

His opponents fear the change would mean growing authoritarianism

The government would seek a referendum on the executive presidency however much support it won in parliament, said Prime Minister Binali Yildirim

ANKARA: Turkey’s ruling AK Party will soon bring to parliament its plans to expand the powers of the presidency, Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said on Tuesday, paving the way for a referendum which the nationalist opposition said it would not oppose.

President Tayyip Erdogan has long wanted an executive presidency, a Turkish version of the system in the United States or France, saying the country needs strong leadership. His opponents fear the change would mean growing authoritarianism.

“We in the AK Party will bring to our great parliament our proposal containing constitutional change and the presidential system,” Yildirim told reporters in Ankara, before a meeting of the AKP in parliament.

Asked when, he said: “As soon as possible”.

The government said last week it would revive efforts to change the constitution after the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), the smallest of the four parties in parliament, indicated it would not oppose a national vote on the issue.

That announcement helped send the lira currency to a record low as investors worried about renewed political uncertainty in a country which has held four nationwide elections in the last

2-1/2 years. “The MHP is in favour of the continuation of the parliamentary system but also does not see a problem in asking the people their view,” MHP leader Devlet Bahceli said in a speech to his party’s lawmakers.

“If the AKP brings its plans to parliament and takes into account our principles and sensitivities, I believe a reasonable outcome will be achieved.”

Bahceli has made clear he will let deputies from the MHP, which has 40 seats in parliament, vote

freely on the question of constitutional change, meaning they could back the AKP plans.

Any constitutional change requires the support of at least 367 deputies in the 550-seat assembly to pass directly, and of 330 deputies to go to a referendum. The AKP has 317 seats.

Yildirim said the government would seek a referendum on the executive presidency however much support it won in parliament, describing it as “the greatest reform to open the locks and

undo the knots in the system”.

“Everyone should put their personal ambitions and party interests to one side,” he said.

The two biggest opposition parties, the secularist CHP and the pro-Kurdish HDP, both oppose an executive presidency and some opinion polls have shown a majority of Turks do not want the change.

But Erdogan has ridden a wave of patriotism since an abortive coup failed to oust him on July 15, consolidating both his power and popularity. A poll two weeks after the attempted putsch showed him with two-thirds approval, his highest ever.

Meanwhile, authorities in Ankara have banned public meetings and marches until the end of November after receiving intelligence that militants were planning attacks in the city, which has been targeted with bombings over the past year.

“Based on intelligence received by our governorship, it has been determined that illegal terror groups are aiming to carry out attacks in our province and have made some preparations,” the governor’s office said in a statement on its website.

It said there were fears that public meetings and protests in Ankara province, an area encompassing the city and surrounding towns, were being targeted by militants.

The ban was set to remain in place until November 30 under an emergency rule law. Emergency rule was imposed after an attempted coup on July 15. — Reuters

SPIKE IN VIOLENCE

Lockdown cuts off UN aid to strife-hit Myanmar region YANGON: Violence in Northern Rakhine state of Myanmar is stopping aid agencies from delivering food and medicines, a United Nations official said on Tuesday, as security forces respond to deadly raids that the government says were inspired by hardliners.

Troops have been sweeping northern Rakhine state for more than a week, hunting an estimated 400 fighters who officials believe are members of the mostly stateless Rohingya community acting with the support of hardliners abroad.

The Myanmar military has declared the area an “operation zone” and has tightly controlled the flow of information since insurgents seized dozens of weapons in raids

on border posts on October 9 in which nine police officers were killed. UN agencies “don’t have access to the affected areas to assess humanitarian needs”, Pierre Peron, spokesman for the UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, said by email.

Health clinics and nutrition programmes in northern Rakhine have been hampered by movement restrictions imposed after the attacks, he said. “We hope that the situation will improve as soon as possible so that humanitarian organisations can restart vital programmes to assist all communities in Rakhine state,” Peron said.

The spike in violence in ethnically divided Rakhine state poses a serious challenge to the

OPERATION ZONE: Police forces prepare to patrol in Maungdaw township at Rakhine state, northeast Myanmar. – Reuters File

six-month-old government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, who was swept to power in an election last year but has faced criticism abroad for failing to tackle rights abuses

EXPLOSION AND FIRE

Two firefighters killed in blast at German chemical complex LUDWIGSHAFEN (GERMANY): The two people known to have died after an explosion and subsequent fire at German chemical giant BASF’s flagship production complex at Ludwigshafen on Monday were both members of BASF’s own fire brigade.

They were responding to a minor fire near the site’s river harbour on Monday morning when a pipe exploded, BASF told journalists at a news conference on Tuesday. One other person is still missing following the blast and six of the 25 people injured are still in intensive care, Ludwigshafen city official Dieter Feid said at the news conference.

“Things are not looking good for some of them,” he said.

The resulting blaze took firefighters 10 hours to extinguish and forced BASF to shut down more than 20 facilities, including its two steam crackers which produce the basic hydrocarbon chemicals such as propylene and ethylene used to manufacture a wide range of plastics and other chemicals.

Cause unclear It is still unclear what caused the initial fire, BASF said. Investigators have not yet been able to examine the blast site because there is still some gas leaking from broken pipes.

BASF said there was no risk to the public from toxic fumes, and

BLAZE SITE: Firefighters try to extinguish fire at the factory of chemicals giant BASF in Ludwigshafen, Germany. – Reuters

said it had been able to prevent chemicals from leaking into the Rhine river.

The harbour terminal at which the explosion occurred handles combustible fluids such as naphtha and methanol and remains closed for the time being, which means BASF is facing a shortage of raw materials needed for production.

“That means that we have a big challenge for production now and that we will have to seek solutions with our customers as quickly as possible,” management board

member Margret Suckale said at the news conference. She said she could not yet say what the financial damage of the explosion would be, adding the company’s main concern was for the deceased, the injured and their families for the moment.

BASF’s Ludwigshafen site, around 80 kilometres (50 miles) south of Frankfurt, is the world’s largest chemical complex, covering an area of 10 square kilometres (four square miles) and employing 39,000 workers, according to BASF. — Reuters

against the Rohingya and other Muslims.At least 30 suspected militants and five military personnel have been killed in clashes since the October 9 raids. Nearly

120,000 people, mostly Rohingyas, were already displaced in Rakhine after an outbreak of communal violence in 2012. Local sources said the latest violence has displaced thousands more.

Ethnic Rakhine political leaders have proposed that the government arm local militias to fight what they see as a growing violent threat from the Rohingya population. “Villagers are scared about their security because their hostile neighbours have a huge population,” said Khin Maung Than, chairman of the Arakan National Party in Maungdaw Township, which has been at the centre of the violence.

Rohingya leaders insist few of the 1.1 million Rohingya in Ra-

khine state - many of whom have lived there for generations and face discrimination and severe restrictions on their movements believe violence is the solution to their plight.

The office of President Htin Kyaw has named a little-known group, “Aqa Mul Mujahidin”, which it says has links to hardliners abroad, as responsible for the October 9 attacks.

International human rights groups have raised concerns that civilians are being caught up in a heavy-handed crackdown. Amnesty International has been told that villagers wounded in the violence have been unable to access medical treatment, said Laura Haigh, a researcher for the group. — Reuters

A 12

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

WORLD CONFLICT

No aid for Aleppo until Moscow assures safety: UN GENEVA: The United Nations said on Tuesday that Russia’s plan for a ceasefire will not mean any supplies get into besieged eastern Aleppo because Russia, Syria and other groups fighting in the city have not yet given guarantees of safety for aid workers.

Syria’s government would also need to overturn its decision last week to refuse to allow aid into the eastern part of the city, where the UN estimates 275,000 civilians and 8,000 rebel fighters are trapped.

“We need assurances from all parties to the conflict, not just a unilateral announcement that this will happen. We need everybody to give us those assurances before it is immediately useful for us to do anything meaningful,” UN spokesman Jens Laerke said.

The International Committee of the Red Cross said it was still unclear how much time would be needed to get security guarantees from all sides, including from rebel fighters.

Pause attacks Russia said on Monday that Russian and Syrian forces would pause their attacks on Aleppo for eight hours on Thursday to allow civilians and rebels to leave the city, and on Tuesday they halted all air strikes, two days ahead of time.

Laerke told a regular briefing in Geneva that Russia had told the UN the ceasfire was for eight hours on more than one consecutive day.

“That was my understanding,

Syria’s government would also need to overturn its decision last week to refuse to allow aid into the eastern part of the city, where the UN estimates 275,000 civilians and 8,000 rebel fighters are trapped

that it was supposed to be a beginning,” he said.

The Russia-Syria bombing campaign has destroyed most health facilities in the besieged city, where 406 people were killed and 1,384 wounded between September 23 and October 8, according to UN data based on reports from medical facilities.

Robert Mardini, the ICRC’s regional director for the Near and Middle East said: “Our estimate today is that there are close to 50 groups inside eastern Aleppo, it is not just about the Russian and Syrian goverment,” he told Reuters. — Reuters

Iran sentences two US citizens to 10 years jail Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps detained Siamak Namazi in October 2015, while he was visiting family in Tehran. In February, it arrested his father Baquer Namazi, 80 a former UNICEF official

DUBAI/WASHINGTON: An Iranian court has sentenced an Iranian-American businessman and his elderly father to 10 years in prison on charges of cooperating with the United States, the Iranian judiciary’s official news website reported on Tuesday.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps detained Siamak Namazi, a businessman with dual US-Iranian citizenship in his mid40s, in October 2015, while he was visiting family in Tehran. The IRGC arrested his father, Baquer Namazi, 80, a former UNICEF official and also a dual citizen, in February.

Both men have been sentenced

INCARCERATED: Iranian-American consultant Siamak Namazi, right, with his father Baquer Namazi in this undated family handout picture. - Reuters File

to 10 years in prison “for cooperating with the hostile government of America,” the Mizan website said, citing “an informed source.” It did not specify when exactly the sentences had been handed down.

“We are deeply concerned about reports that U.S. citizens Siamak Namazi and Baquer Namazi have each been sentenced to 10 years in prison,” State Department spokesman Mark Toner said in a statement Siamak Namazi, who was born in Iran and educated in the United States, worked as a business consultant in Iran for several years, and was well-known in Washington circles.

Siamak’s brother, and Baquer’s son, Babak Namazi, called the sentences unjust.

“In the case of my father this is tantamount to a life sentence,” Babak Namazi said in a statement. It said each man received a

single court session lasting a few hours before the sentences were handed down.

“The details of the charges are unknown to us as of yet.”

According to the Iranian penal code, cooperating with foreign states against Iran’s government is punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment.

Last month, Iran sentenced Nizar Zakka, a Lebanese information technology expert and permanent US resident, to 10 years imprisonment.

On Sunday, the Mizan news site published video images of Siamak Namazi, set to dramatic music and spliced together with images of US President Barack Obama and Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian, who was himself released from Iranian jail in January after more than 18 months in detention.

The video shows Namazi’s US

passport and identification card from the United Arab Emirates, where he previously lived. It then shows Namazi standing and holding his arms outstretched, as if being searched, while being filmed by at least one other cameraman. The website said the video depicted “the first images of the moment of Siamak Namazi’s arrest.”

Security officials have arrested dozens of artists, journalists and businessmen, including Iranians holding joint US, European, or Canadian citizenship, as part of a crackdown on “Western infiltration.” Four other Iranian-Americans, including Rezaian, were released from Iranian prisons in January as part of a prisoner swap with the United States.

Siamak Namazi was most recently working for Crescent Petroleum, an oil and gas company in the United Arab Emirates. He was chosen as a “Young Global Leader” by the World Economic Forum in 2007.

Baquer Namazi, a former Iranian provincial governor, served as UNICEF representative in Somalia, Kenya, Egypt and elsewhere, and for a time ran Hamyaran, an umbrella agency for Iranian nongovernmental organisations.

He has a serious heart and other medical conditions requiring special medication, his wife wrote on Facebook in February.

The United Nations human rights investigator for Iran called earlier this month for the immediate release of three Iranians with dual nationality whose health is a matter of concern, including Baquer Namazi. — Reuters

CRISIS

Egyptians hit hard as high sugar prices catch government off guard bags that have doubled in price in recent weeks.

“I just want to make a cup of tea and I can’t,” one shopkeeper said.

He echoed growing complaints from the public about rising prices and shortages even as the country looks to implement further austerity measures ahead of a $12 billion IMF lending programme granted preliminary approval in August.

CAIRO: Borrowing a cup of sugar from your neighbour has rarely been so contentious in Egypt.

At supermarkets across the country sugar has all but vanished, prompting media talk of a crisis and pushing the state to rapidly increase imports despite an acute dollar shortage and soaring global prices of the sweetener.

Egypt consumes around 3 million tonnes of sugar annually but produces just over 2 million tonnes, with the gap filled by imports, usually between July and October when local beet and sugar cane supplies have wound down.

But traders said high global sugar prices, which surged 50 per cent over the past year, combined with a rising black market rate for dollars has made it too expensive and risky for many importers to obtain sugar in recent months.

Get dollars Importers have no choice but to turn to the black market to get dollars, as banks ration meagre supplies, paying 15 Egyptian pounds or more per dollar versus an official rate of 8.8.

At such rates, more and more traders say they can no longer buy.

IN DIRE STRAITS: Egyptians wait to buy subsidized food through the contribution of the Ministry of Defence at Sayda Zaienb square in Cairo, Egypt, on Tuesday. — Reuters

“No one is willing to source dollars for this. It is way too expensive,” one sugar trader said. In the absence of steady imports, sugar supplies have all but dried up, shop owners, commodity traders, and

producers of sugary foodstuffs told Reuters.

“It’s been four weeks since we’ve had sugar at any of the branches,” said Aly Ibrahim Aly, a manager at Metro Market, one of Egypt’s larg-

est supermarket chains.

Other shops across Cairo told Reuters they were getting just a small fraction of their needs, with stocks sold out within the hour they arrive as customers fight over

Self-inflicted Traders describe the current sugar shortage as partly self-inflicted, the result of delayed government reaction to conflicting policy pronouncements. The Ministry of Supply said in June that the country had sugar reserves to satisfy demand for a year.

In August, it reneged, saying it needed 500,000 tonnes to make it until February, the start of the next harvest.

An arm of the supply ministry bought around 225,000 tonnes of sugar in August from state-owned factories, earmarking for government outlets stocks that normally supply the private sector, traders told Reuters.

The private sector has struggled to procure adequate quantities

since then. “All the sugar is being dedicated to the government subsidy programme and nothing is going to the private sector,” the sugar trader said, referring to government-run supermarkets that sell subsidised sugar.

“One company basically offered us a blank cheque and said do whatever it takes to get it,” he added.

Ultimately they couldn’t find any, he said. Egypt’s state grain buyer GASC has issued several sugar tenders over the past two months, buying about 250,000 tonnes so far.

Stocks GASC’s recent tenders have called for white, as opposed to raw, sugar in order to bypass local refinement and head straight to supermarket shelves.

That cuts time but adds an $80$100 dollar per tonne premium, traders said. Supply Minister Mohamed Ali El Sheikh said last week that Egypt had enough sugar stocks to cover demand for four months - but the manager of one government-run supermarket said on Tuesday that he had been out of stock for four days. — Reuters

FRANCE

Teen migrants head to UK as court upholds ‘Jungle’ closure CALAIS/LILLE (FRANCE): France transferred another dozen mostly Afghan teenagers to Britain on Tuesday as efforts to rehouse the most vulnerable migrants of the “Jungle” camp in northern France accelerated ahead of its demolition.

The departures, which still amount to a small portion of an estimated 1,000 youngsters unaccompanied by adult family members, came as a court rejected a request by 11 charities that the closure of the Jungle be postponed. A first busload of children arrived in Britain on Monday from the “Jungle” camp near the French port of Calais as the British government started to act on its commitment to take in unaccompanied migrant children before the camp is destroyed.

The court in Lille rejected the plea by local charities for more time to organise rehousing of the thousands who live there.

“It’s now just a matter of days,” Interior Minister Bernard Caze-

The departures, which still amount to a small portion of an estimated 1,000 youngsters unaccompanied by adult family members, came as a court rejected a request by 11 charities that the closure of the Jungle be postponed neuve told parliament after the closure ruling was announced.

“We are now nearing the moment when the operation will begin.”

A 16-year-old Afghan named Azizullah was delighted to be leaving the camp that has come to symbolise the plight of war refugees. My dream came true

because I want to see my brother, I miss him,” he said as he readied to leave. He planned to join his 36-year-old brother, who works in a pizza restaurant on the other side of the Channel.

President Francois Hollande, facing an election in April, has promised to shut down the camp under local pressure.

His government has already started rehousing thousands of Jungle inhabitants in dozens of towns and villages across France.

Regarding the specific issue of unaccompanied children and teenagers who have fled war zones such as Afghanistan, Syria and Sudan, the transfers to Britain are taking place under EU family reunification rules known as the Dublin regulations.

Charities has accused Britain of dragging its heels on such transfers, prompting a FrancoBritish meeting last week which has been followed by transfers of a dozen migrants like Azizullah in the past two days. — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

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An Indian woman who was forcefully brought to Oman from the UAE to work as a housemaid was rescued last week.

Many Thais hoped that the upcoming vote would put the kingdom back on a path toward stability after more than a decade of political turmoil. But, given the uncertainty implied by Bhumibol’s death, and the prospect of an unpopular crown prince eventually reigning, stability seems unlikely any time soon

TWEET WE LIKE @oneguynick I am excited to see @omanair commercials on CNN and BBC. I hope more people get to see what is an amazing country and people #oman #muscat

INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY

NADEZDA AZHGIKHINA

INSTAGRAM.COM/TIMESOFOMAN By using security as a pretext to flout Russia’s media legislation, the government has undermined journalism considerably.

That legislation was based on European and international law, and symbolised the victory of democracy in Russia. But the legislation’s integrity has been gradually eroded by amendments that limit free speech

Photo: navia_beauty

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READERS’ FORUM Need for motorists to be extra cautious This refers to the report A life cut short by tragedy (October 18).

The heartrending story of Zafeer, who was killed in a road accident on Sunday, is the result of negligence on the part of someone who claimed the life of an innocent boy. It once again reminds parents of schoolchildren that they need to be more cautious until their children return home from either school or events such as touring, excursions etc. Zafeer’s untimely demise was shocking as parents will always have some kind of expectations from their children and they all become null and void in just Scan this QR code matter of seconds either with their own to send letters to the absence of mind or due to the negligence of Readers’ Forum, others. Meanwhile, the incident highlights containing not more than 200 words with why one must comply with road safety full name, address norms. It is imperative that motorists and telephone pay attention to pedestrians while on the number, may be sent wheel. It is important to instill children by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com). a culture of safety. As everyone knows life once lost cannot be regained; it is important to be cautious in the best of the knowledge.

Meanwhile, when it comes to adhering to road safety guidelines motorists are to be extra cautious to ensure that their careless driving should not cost heavily on others.

— Ramachandran Nair, Ruwi

NEW INDIA ASSURANCE

“Insure with New India and be secure”

Tel: 24838800 | Fax: 24838899 | Email: niamct@omantel.net.om | Website: www.newindiaoman.com Everybody gets so much information all day long that they lose their common sense.

GERTRUDE STEIN

JUSTIN FOX

India is nearing the demographic sweet spot of a huge working-age population with relatively few dependents. By all rights it should become one of the main engines of the global economy. But as long as most of India’s women are sidelined from the labour market, that engine won’t be running at anywhere near full capacity

T

he public release, via WikiLeaks, of purloined e-mails and documents related to Hillary Clinton and her campaign has produced starkly different reactions. On the whole, the news media is nonplused.

In a typically snarky tweet, Washington Post reporter David Weigel mocked the notion that the WikiLeaks dump would alter the dynamics of the election, summing it up with the purposefully mundane revelation that “Clinton strategists debated how to respond to controversies.”

The leaks, which may or may not be part of a Russian effort to undermine Clinton in order to advance her rival, largely expose routine political discussion among staff engaged in the constant, necessary balancing of policy, politics and presentation. It’s an equilibrium that any successful campaign must achieve before assuming leadership of a successful government.

How far should the campaign go in appeasing popular Senator Elizabeth Warren? How would the media react if Clinton, in discussing her use of e-mails, said she was “bemused” by technology?

How should the candidate reposition herself on trade, given the shifting politics?

To anyone who has worked in electoral politics, or extensively covered it, the WikiLeaks dump reads like a thousand variations on the theme of “dog bites man.” It paints a portrait of Clinton as a normal politician surrounded by a normal staff engaged in normal politics.

To many on the political right, that reality is unacceptable. They had told themselves that WikiLeaks would be the deus ex machina of this election, exposing Clinton as a treasonous person and delivering the White House, and all its broad powers, into the transgressive hands of Donald Trump. Now, having promised themselves scandalous gold, they re-imagine every dull pebble in the pan as a shimmering nugget. Americans for Tax Reform, an organisation devoted to using the tax code to preserve and enhance the financial interests of the wealthy, packaged a leaked e-mail on gun regulation -- ATR leader Grover Norquist sits on the board of the National Rifle Association -- with a video that the group had unearthed of Clinton testifying on guns in 1993. “On April 14, 2016,” the press release stated, “ATR released

previously unseen video footage from a non-CSPAN camera showing Hillary’s visceral facial expression” as then Senator Bill Bradley of New Jersey discussed a proposed gun tax.

Not only is the video footage “previously unseen,” it emanated from a “non-C-SPAN camera.”

Ooh-la-la. The secret footage shows Clinton silently nodding her head, appearing both sincere and thoughtful as she acknowledges either her agreement with, or merely the rudimentary comprehension of, another person. The “visceral facial expression” is recognisably human.

Judicial Watch, a right-wing organisation that has pursued Clinton for years and sued to gain access to her State Department e-mails, likewise has been sifting through its discoveries. After another batch was released last week, Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton stated in a press release that “the e-mails are further proof that Hillary Clinton used her office to provide special treatment -- even photo ops -- for donors to the Clinton Foundation.” Judicial Watch is based in Washington D.C. Throughout that city, lobbying and law-firm offices, even cubicles occupied by junior staff, are accented with photographs of the occupant grinning next to President Ronald Reagan or George H.W. Bush or Bill Clinton or George W. Bush or Barack Obama or hundreds of other prominent politicians. There is cause for unease about Clinton’s use of a private e-mail system when she was secretary of state and, to a lesser extent, about the dual tracks of the Clinton family’s foundation work and the powers of the office that Clinton seeks. A proliferation of photo-ops, however, is not a threat to the republic.

There is more than desperation in these efforts to transform a “visceral facial expression” or a series of photo-ops into a sinister conspiracy.

There is pathos. It reaches its logical conclusion in right-wing blogs, such as the popular Gateway Pundit, which posited that leaked e-mails suggest that Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, who died last year one month before his 80th birthday, was murdered and that Clinton’s campaign chairman John Podesta was involved. - Bloomberg View

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES OCTOBER 2001 Kalbani visits site of joint exercise SOHAR: Major-General Khamis bin Humaid bin Salim Al Kalbani, chief of staff of the Sultan’s Armed Forces and the director of the Swift Sword II exercises, yesterday visited the site of the exercise being conducted by the SAF with the British Armed Forces. He was accompanied by senior SAF officers. “The exercise will demonstrate the conduct of the joint arms battle and its implementation crowned three years of planning and theoretical and practical preparations,” Kalbani said.

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PICTOGRAPH

PUBLIC FINANCE GAS REVENUE (in million Omani Rials) Total end of May 2015

2016

594.0 546.2

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

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

1812: Napoleon Bonaparte begins his retreat from Moscow.

1914: The German cruiser Emden captures her thirteenth Allied merchant ship in 24 days.

1942: The Japanese submarine I-36 launches a floatplane for a reconnaissance flight over Pearl Harbor.

0

1949: The People’s Republic of China is formally proclaimed.

Source National Centre for Statistics & Information

A14

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

LIFESTYLE LEISURE

THE ROAD OFTEN TRAVELLED MUSCAT TO SALALAH Story Gautam Viswanathan

M

uscat is 1,011 kilometres from Salalah, a journey that takes slightly less than a couple of hours by air.

Those of us who love the road, though, it is a memorable ninehour journey with just you and your vehicle, with the sky above and the earth below.

To ensure it stays memorable, though, Lifestyle caught up with the engineers who worked in the town of Haima, halfway between the capital and the Dhofar region for tips to ensure their journey was made easier.

Stock up on fuel The last thing you want is to be stranded on a highway in the middle of the desert, not knowing when (or if ) the next vehicle you can thumb a lift from is coming. After Nizwa, the next fuel station is in the town of Adam, a good 56km away.

After that though, there’s a good 100km separating one town from the next, and the desire to unleash the full power of your ride might be a very tempting one, but we wouldn’t advise you to do that as you might run out of juice before then, and standing on the side of the road does not sound like a very nice option. The engineers in Haima go one step further: They have in-car speed monitoring systems that warn them once they’ve crossed a certain limit.

Make sure your engine is cool Temperatures in the middle of the desert can rocket up to a whopping 50 degrees so remember that when you stop at the next town, you’re not just giving yourself break, but your car as well so that it doesn’t break down in the middle of the desert.

Adam is the last major town before you get to Thumrait, your penultimate stop before you reach Salalah. It would not be a bad idea to check your engine temperature and maybe buy some coolant at a garage there.

Give your tyres a couple of kicks as well, to ensure everything is sorted down there, and perform any repairs that are necessary: A stitch in time saves nine, after all.

Stock up on food and water at every station Your car does need fuel, but you do too. It’s not the heat, but dehydration that is your biggest enemy out in the desert. A lack of food and water on the road can lead to blurred vision, headaches, nausea, and even fainting spells, which are extremely dangerous, not just for yourself, but anyone else on the road as well.

The engineers in Haima are constantly tracked by GPS when they are on the road, and have to inform their superiors of their visits via a journey planner, which details their time of departure from their base of operations, time of arrival at the site of inspection and distance between the two locations, so that they can be easily found in case of emergencies.

Plan your route Print off a route map with detailed instructions before you set off on your journey, and make sure you know the route you’re taking. Compare notes with people who’ve made the journey before and ensure you don’t get lost, because finding your way back onto the main road isn’t the easiest, even with your in-car GPS navigation system.

Make sure you’ve got a healthy balance on your phone and note down a few emergency numbers and the locations of emergency services in the area if you need to.

Stay well rested The engineers in Haima work on rotation so that there is no burnout while on the job. If you need a break from the road, pull into the nearest town and spend an hour or so decompressing at a local cafeteria. Better, check into a hotel for the night. The motel in Al Ghaftain do a mean tandoori roti and it does sound like a great excuse to grab some R&R. You can also grab some shut eye for the night at the Haima Tourist Hotel, before hitting the road once again in the morning once you’ve recharged your batteries. Follow these tips and your journey through Oman’s deserts will be made a lot easier. We wish you a fun (and safe) time out on the roads. —gautam@timesofoman.com

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

WEATHER

TEMPERATURE

HUMIDITY

36 - 22 49-20% 0

0

PRAYER TIMINGS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

11.57pm 3.15pm 5.43pm 6.53pm 4.50am

A15

LIFESTYLE

BRIEFS

ON THE BALL

Foot care tips to keep vacationers on the go Whether you’re walking on a sandy beach or strolling through a bustling marketplace, healthy feet that feel and look great can make the journey much more enjoyable.

If your vacation is to a warm destination where you’ll spend time in sandals and flip flops, treating yourself to a pre-trip pedicure can help your feet look their best. Be sure to choose a reputable salon and bring your own instruments. Remember, toenails should always be trimmed straight across and never let anyone cut your cuticles. You can also take care of unsightly and uncomfortable toe and foot fungus infections before you go. While you may be tempted to only pack cute flip flops for your beach trip, and impressive fashion boots for cooler locales, keep comfort in mind, too. Walking in uncomfortable shoes can cause blisters and chafing; sore feet can really dim your enjoyment of vacation. Never take brand new shoes on vacation.

Instead pack a few pairs of comfortable shoes made of breathable, natural materials and try to stick with a lower, cushioned sole.

Finally, pack a foot care kit that includes bandages for covering minor cuts and scrapes, antibiotic cream, an emollient-enriched moisturiser, an anti-fungal blister pads, an oral anti-inflammatory medication to ease tired and swollen feet nail renewal pen to keep your nails looking whiter and brighter while at your destination, sunscreen and sunburn cream.

While on vacation, change socks daily to help reduce the risk of fungal infection. You should also avoid walking barefoot in public places like pools, locker rooms and showers. If you pick up a fungal infection while travelling, treat it promptly to prevent it from spreading.

If your feet will be exposed to the sun on the beach, remember to apply sunscreen to them too. Since feet can swell in hot climates, be sure to drink plenty of water that will help keep you hydrated and minimise swelling.

It is important to choose footwear that’s appropriate for the type of activity you’ll be doing each day. It’s normal for feet to feel a little tired and sore after a long day of walking around seeing the sights.

But, if serious pain occurs or your feet continue to hurt even after you’ve returned home, you should talk to your doctor. — BPT

Kerala island in NatGeo’s list of world destinations Kakkathuruthu, a tiny island in Kerala’s Alappuzha district has been listed in National Geographic’s Around the World in 24 Hours, a photographic tour of travel-worthy spots across the world.

“It is a matter of pride for us to be listed by NatGeo, which is among the leading magazines in the world,” said Kerala Tourism Minister A.C. Moideen.

The tiny island, also known as the ‘Island of crows’, that can be reached only by boats, was captured by the magazine photographers during the time of dusk when “the shadows lengthen and the sky shifts from pale blue to sapphire”. “If dawn is awakening and daytime illumination, then twilight is transcendence, a final burst of vitality before darkness falls,” said NatGeo Expeditions. — IANS

With Gautam Viswanathan

You are the Inspiration, Boys in Red

G

autam, your home team are here,” quipped one of my colleagues at the

ICC Academy.

It would’ve been a first for team India, but they weren’t the ones he was talking about. Clad in red and green, toting duffle bags over their shoulder and with the khanjar emblazoned on their chests, it was Oman’s national cricket team who strolled onto the immaculately designed pitches last November.

They were there training for the Twenty20 World Cup which was held in India last March.

Most teams are guaranteed automatic qualification for the world’s most prestigious cricket tournaments, but Oman and a handful of other nations that have only recently emerged on cricket’s map had to earn the right to play with the big boys through a series of qualifications.

And the boys in red did just that: They beat a much-vaunted Namibia side – who’d qualified for the World Cup in 2003 – to become one of 12 teams travelling to the subcontinent this year.

Oman’s arrival on the big stage was another marker in the sand for the nascent cricketing landscape in the Gulf, and the manner in which they trained reflected the hard work and tireless efforts these players had put in to get to India.

“Are you from Oman?” I asked one of the bowlers? “I spent 18 years there,” a response that made one of his teammates walk over and shake my hand, broad

smile lighting up his face.

I was indeed excited to see them, but I had not expected them to greet me so warmly. We think of sports stars as elite athletes who live extravagant lives off the pitch, but all of Oman’s cricketers were part timers, who’d taken time off from work to train for the tournament.

For them to devote so much time and energy to their passions, and then go back to being fulltime employees, was what served as a source of inspiration to me, and indeed, should serve as a lesson to all of us.

Few around the world would know what it meant for team Oman when they stepped onto the pitch at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in Dharamsala on the 9th of March, but for them to be recognised as

one of 16 teams competing in one of the world’s biggest competitions in the world was a victory in itself.

There was, of course, more for them to savour that night, as they notched their first ever tournament victory against the Irish, who’d also previously turned up at the World Cup: In 2007, they’d travelled to the West Indies and made history when they eliminated Pakistan.

In India, though, it was the sons of the Sultanate who would triumph. Restricting the Irish to 154/5 as Munis Ansari took three wickets, Zeeshan Maqsood saw Oman over the line and gave the nation its first ever victory at a major cricket tournament.

The road Oman had to take to get to this point was long and arduous, but the dedication, com-

mitment and sacrifice put in by the players and coaching staff had reaped rich reward, a fitting return for their hard work.

Sixteen years after their inception in 2000, Oman’s cricket team had finally reached the big time. To see their names splashed across the front pages in the sports sections of so many papers and websites all around the world would’ve been a memorable moment for everyone associated with that team.

It was, unfortunately, as far as Oman would progress in the tournament: Their match against the Dutch was washed out due to rain and they stumbled in the final hurdle against a rapidlyimproving Bangladesh side, leaving them to contemplate what could’ve been.

Oman’s exploits in India, though, are surely only the larval form of greater achievements in the years to come. The journey these players have undertaken and the lessons they have learned from it is sure to inspire others to take up the bat and follow in their footsteps so that they too can one day make a full-time living from the sport.

Ajay Lalcheta, Jatinder Singh, Soufyan Mehmood, Mohammed Nadeem and the rest of the players who represent Oman are pioneers of the sport in the region, and while their names may not mean much to us right now, are sure to enter the annals of the history of the gentleman’s game in the nation in the future.

For the Sultanate of Oman, the only way is up.

— gautam@timesofoman.com

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W EDN ES DAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

KUWAIT’S BOND SALE

MARKE

Kuwaiti government will use ‘executive powers’ to press ahead with economic reform measures, including plans to raise as much as 3 billion dinars ($9.9 billion) from global bond markets, after the country’s ruler dissolved parliament. - Bloomberg News

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

Muscat 5,583.55 + 2.44 + 0.04%

Dubai 3,317.97 + 45.60 + 1.39%

Abu Dhabi 4,269.34 + 48.90 + 1.16%

Kuwait 5,283.59 - 3.52 - 0.07%

Saudi Arabia

5,499.23 - 65.44 - 1.18%

Bahrain 1,137.01 - 0.51 - 0.04%

Qatar 10,484.09 + 58.20 + 0.56%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.33 Pound ...........................................2.10 Indian Rs ............................. 173.28 Pakistan Rs ........................267.45 Bangla Taka........................201.13

Indian Rs ....................................173.21 Pakistan Rs ..............................271.85 Sri Lanka Rs .................................. N/A Bangla Taka........................... 203.55 Phil Peso .................................... 125.61

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) ....... 16.10

Oman Crude............. (Spot) .........$48.41 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) .........$48.16 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) .........$50.14 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$48.09 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) .........$51.87 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) .........$50.31

* Rates as of October 18 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

* Rates are as of October 18 Source: Bank Muscat

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......15.45 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 152.00 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 142.75 * Rates as of October 18 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

CBO plans OMR150m-bond issue This issue is for raising funds to repay a maturing bond issue. The apex bank has raised OMR300m by way of bonds so far this year, the central bank chief said

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Oman’s central bank plans to float OMR150 million worth of government development bonds towards the end of the year for raising funds to repay a maturing bond issue.

“This is replacement for an issue, which is expiring by the end of the year,” Hamoud Sangour Al Zadjali, executive president of

the Central Bank of Oman (CBO), told journalists on the sidelines of a workshop on IFRS standards organised by Horwath MakGhazali, auditors and management consultants practicing in Muscat and a member firm of Crowe Horwath International.

Quoting the minister responsible for financial affairs, Al Zadjali also said that the Oman government will not issue bonds in the international market this year. “Probably

G L O B A L S TA N D A R D

(there could be an issue) next year, depending on the budget.”

The CBO chief added that the central bank has raised OMR300 million by way of development bonds so far this year and the forthcoming bond issue will take the total amount raised by way of development bonds to OMR450 million.

Overseas markets The Oman government has been raising funds by way of development bonds within the country and bond issues in the overseas markets.

He also noted that there has

been an overwhelming response to development bond issues so far this year. “All these issues were oversubscribed — may be two or three times sometimes. It means that there is enough liquidity in the system.”

Al Zadjali also noted that CBO’s move to raise funds from the local market had not affected the liquidity situation so far because “we also watch the liquidity situation.”

“We have a joint committee with members from the Central Bank of Oman and the Ministry of Finance, to look at the liquidity situation in the banking sector and accordingly decide on these issues,” the CBO chief explained.

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

Fixing time frame to complete mergers is better: CBO chief Times News Service MUSCAT: Fixing a time frame to conclude mergers will be in the best interest of respective companies as well as the financial system as a whole, said Hamoud Sangour Al Zadjali, executive president of the Central Bank of Oman (CBO).

“That (a merger) should not take such a long time.

It affects the institutions themselves because there is no clarity on what will be the future of these institu-

tions. It is detrimental to these institutions to stay that long in taking a decision (on merger),” Al Zadjali told journalists on the sidelines of an IFRS 9 workshop.

Two leading Omani banks Bank Dhofar and Bank Sohar - called off their proposed merger on Sunday.

The Sultanate’s banking regulator – Central Bank of Oman – has been encouraging consolidation of financial institutions in an apparent move to make strong entities to withstand competition.

G L O B A L AV I AT I O N

Middle East to lead passenger growth in the world over next two decades: IATA Times News Service

NEW REGULATION: Hamoud Sangour Al Zadjali, executive president of the Central Bank of Oman, said that the new accounting standards will bring in more discipline in preparing their financial statements. - JUN ESTRADA/Times of Oman

IFRS 9 accounting standard to come into effect in 2018 A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: A new global accounting standard – International Financial Reporting Standard (IFRS 9) – will be made compulsory for all financial institutions licenced by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) by January 2018.

The central bank has already formed a team with members from the apex bank and various banks to work on the requirements for streamlining the implementation of IFRS 9, said Hamoud Sangour Al Zadjali, executive president of the Central Bank of Oman.

He was talking to journalists on the sidelines of on IFRS financial instruments organised

by Horwath Mak Ghazali, auditors and management consultants practicing in Muscat and a member firm of Crowe Horwath International. The workshop was inaugurated by Al Zadjali.

The new accounting standards will bring in more discipline in preparing their financial statements after taking into account three risks – market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk, added the CBO chief.

He further said that the Sultanate has introduced the expected loss accounting norm almost 10 years ago. “We have already foreseen the risk of losses banks and financial institutions face. We have asked banks to set extra provisions for expected losses much before.”

“IFRS began as an attempt to harmonise accounting across European Union, but the value of harmonisation made the concept attractive around the world. But in this process, over the years, the standards have become complicated and challenging. People are very creative and inventive.

So they created and invented nu-

merous kinds of financial instruments,” said Davis Kallukaran, managing Partner at Crowe Horwath Oman.

IFRS reporting is required in more than 130 countries. Also, over 100 countries are already in full compliance to IFRS where all financial institutions, including banks and insurance companies, will be impacted by the new standard IFRS 9.

In 1973, International Accounting Standard committee was formed to regulate financial reporting across the world.

In 2001, the new international accounting standards board took over from the committee the responsibility for setting International Accounting Standards.

The standards issued by the new IASB are called IFRS and since then until now 15 International reporting standards (IFRS) were issued and 13 old accounting standards were deleted “IAS 39 was extremely complicated and contained too many exceptions, inconsistencies and derogations. Companies really struggled and paid high fees for consultants just to apply IAS 39 correctly.

Therefore, The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) decided to rewrite and replace IAS 39. The new standard got the name IFRS 9 Financial Instruments,” added Kallukaran.

There are two different standards about financial instruments - IAS 39 and IFRS 9 – now. If the company has only small amounts of financial instruments, the impact of switch from IAS 39 to IFRS 9 would be probably minimal. IFRS 9 introduces an option to value equity investments (for example, shares in other companies) and certain debt instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income.

MUSCAT: Middle East region is expected to lead passenger growth in the world in the next two decades. About 258 million additional passengers are estimated to travel a year on routes to, from and within the region by 2035, a growth of 5 per cent in 20 years from now, said International Air Transport Association (IATA) on Tuesday.

The UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia will all enjoy strong growth of 6.3 per cent, 4.7 per cent, and 4.1 per cent respectively with the total market size at 414 million passengers, the IATA said in its 20-year air passenger forecast report said.

Region-wise, Asia-Pacific will see an annual growth rate of 4.7 per cent; North American region

2.8%; Europe 2.5%; Latin American 3.8%; and Africa 5.1%.

Globally, the IATA expects 7.2 billion passengers to travel in 2035, a near doubling of the 3.8 billion air travellers in 2016. The prediction is based on a 3.7 per cent annual compound average growth rate (CAGR).

“People want to fly. Demand for air travel over the next two decades is set to double. Enabling people and nations to trade, explore, and share the benefits of innovation and economic prosperity makes our world a better place,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA director general and chief executive officer.

The forecast for passenger growth confirms that the biggest driver of demand will be the Asia-Pacific region. It is expected

to be the source of more than half the new passengers over the next 20 years. China will displace the United States as the world’s largest aviation market around 2029, the note said.

Developing markets India will displace the UK for third place in 2026, while Indonesia enters the top ten at the expense of Italy. Growth will also increasingly be driven within developing markets.

Over the past decade the developing world’s share of total passenger traffic has risen from 24 per cent to nearly 40 per cent, and this trend is set to continue, IATA said in a statement.

The 20-year forecast puts forward three scenarios. The central scenario foresees a doubling

of passengers with a 3.7 per cent annual CAGR. If trade liberalisation gathers pace, demand could triple the 2015 level. Conversely, if the current trend towards trade protectionism gathers strength, growth could cool to 2.5 per cent annual CAGR which would see passenger numbers reach 5.8 billion by 2035.

The five fastest-growing markets in terms of additional passengers per year over the forecast period will be China (817 million new passengers for a total of 1.3 billion); United States (484 million new passengers for a total of 1.1 billion); India (322 million new passengers for a total of 442 million); Indonesia (135 million new passengers for a total of 242 million); and Vietnam (112 million new passengers for a total of 150 million).

B2

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

MARKET MSM index ends higher

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ....................................... 5,602.70 ...............5,575.87 ................... 5,583.55 ....................5,581.11....................2.44 ...................0.04 Financial Index .................................... 7,292.48 ...............7,231.24 .................... 7,251.41 ...................7,234.23.................. 17.18 ...................0.24 Industrial Index ....................................7,198.92 ............... 7,138.03 ....................7,198.92 ....................7,145.25..................53.67 ................... 0.75 Services Index ....................................... 3,051.78 ...............3,037.63 ....................3,037.75 ...................3,049.90................ -12.15 .................. -0.40 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................859.22 ..................856.06 .......................858.86 .......................857.16.................... 1.70 ...................0.20 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 20,837,799..................4,054,596 .................... 994 .................17,317,831,901 ................ 16 ..................... 10 .................... 16 .........................42

Galfar Engineering, up by 4.35%, was the top gainer, while Al Suwadi Power was the top

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR TUEDAY, OCTOBER 18

loser with loss of 3.55 per cent ISIN ......................................SECURITY NAME ..................................................................VOLUME..... TURNOVER............TRADES ......OPEN PRICE......HIGH ............. LOW ........ CLOSE PR. ...PREV. CLOSE...DIFF (RO).........DIFF % .............LAST PR.....LAST BID .............LAST OFFER ........MARKET CAP.PAR VALUE

MUSCAT: A marginal recovery witnessed on the Muscat Securities Market, after a major slide on Monday. The MSM30 Index remained stable with improved market turnover and closed at 5,583.55 points, up by 0.04 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index ended at 858.86 points, down by 0.20 per cent.

Bank Sohar was the most active in terms of volume and turnover.

Up by 4.35 per cent, Galfar Engineering was the top gainer while Al Suwadi Power was the top loser with loss of 3.55 per cent.

As many as 994 trades were executed on Tuesday, generating turnover of OMR4.05 million with 20.84 million shares changing hands. Out of 42 traded securities, 16 advanced, 10 declined and 16 remained unchanged. Arab and GCC investors were net buyers to the tune of OMR250,000 worth of shares, while Omani investors were net sellers at OMR162,000 followed by foreign investors, who sold stocks amounting to OMR88,000.

Financial Index recovered to close at 7,251.41 points, up by 0.24 per cent. HSBC Bank Oman, Al Anwar Holding, Gulf Investment Services, Takaful Oman and Bank Sohar gained by 2.70 per cent, 1.79 per cent, 0.91 per cent, 0.74 per cent and 0.70 per cent, respectively. Al Madina Investment, Oman &Emirates Holding and Al Madina Takaful declined by 3.33 per cent, 1.54 per centand 1.41 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index gained 0.75 per cent to end at 7,198.92 point.

Galfar Engineering, Al Anwar Ceramic, Oman Cement, Gulf International Chemical and Oman Flour Mills increased by 4.35 per cent, 2.48 per cent, 1.80 per cent, 1.56 per cent and 1.26 per cent, respectively. Al Hassan Engineering and Al Jazeera Steel declined by 1.54 per cent and 1.29 per cent, respectively.

Services Index ended at 3,037.75 points, down by 0.40 per cent. Al Jazeera Services, OIFC, Port Services and Phoenix Power increased by 2.86 per cent, 1.74 per cent, 0.85 per cent and 0.69 per cent, respectively. Al Suwadi Power, Al Batinah Power, Renaissance Services, Ooredoo Oman and Sembcorp Salalah declined by 3.55 per cent, 2.06 per cent, 1.42 per cent, 1.17 per cent and 0.83 per cent, respectively.

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

OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ............................................29,533 ............... 5,318........................8 ............0.180 ........... 0.182 ...........0.180........... 0.180 ............. 0.175............ 0.005............. 2.857 ................0.181 ..............0.182...................0.185....................11,016,769 .........0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES ............................... 113,000.............18,669........................6 ............0.168 ........... 0.168 ...........0.165 ............0.165 ............. 0.161 ............ 0.004.............2.484 ................0.165 .............. 0.161...................0.165 ...................48,875,258 .........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT .......................................................... 147,648 .............66,737........................1 ........... 0.452 ...........0.452 ...........0.452........... 0.452 .............0.444 ........... 0.008............. 1.802 ................0.452..............0.444...................0.452..................149,554,465........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 2,101,980 ...... 358,416...................106 ............0.170 ........... 0.173 ...........0.170 ............0.171 ............. 0.168............ 0.003............. 1.786.................0.172 ...............0.171...................0.172...................29,925,420.........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 1,048,389 ...... 183,594..................... 55 ............0.172 ........... 0.189 ...........0.172 ............0.175 ............. 0.172............ 0.003............. 1.744 ................0.178 .............. 0.177...................0.178 ...................35,000,000.........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ...........................12,800 ................1,417........................2 ............0.110 ............0.111 ............0.110 ............0.111.............. 0.110.............0.001 .............0.909 ................ 0.111 ..............0.105................... 0.111 .................... 6,531,597 ..........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ....................... 324,495 ........... 76,928..................... 26 ........... 0.236 ...........0.238 ...........0.236........... 0.237 .............0.235 ........... 0.002............. 0.851 ................0.238..............0.238...................0.242 ..................22,524,480.........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 8,048,045 .. 1,147,824...................246 ............0.140 ........... 0.147 ...........0.140........... 0.143 .............0.142 ............0.001 ............. 0.704 ................0.146 .............. 0.145...................0.146................. 229,443,406 .......0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 328,494 ............47,581..................... 25 ............0.144 ........... 0.145 ...........0.144............0.145 .............0.144 ............0.001 ............. 0.694 ................0.145 ..............0.142...................0.144..................212,077,212 ........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 146,000 ...........42,330..................... 10 ........... 0.290...........0.290 ...........0.288........... 0.290 .............0.290 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.290..............0.284...................0.290 ..................29,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS .............................................................72,977 .............45,019......................14 ........... 0.620 ...........0.624 ...........0.600............0.616 ............. 0.616............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.600..............0.590...................0.600 ..................33,880,000.........0.100

Emerging markets rise Emerging-market stocks rose the most in three weeks and currencies gained as mixed United States economic data bolstered speculation the Federal Reserve will remain accommodative.

Benchmark gauges in Hong Kong, India and the Philippines led the rally in equities, while Mexico’s peso, South Africa’s rand and South Korea’s won advanced the most among currencies. Russia’s X5 Retail Group climbed to a five-year high after sales growth accelerated.

Poland was said to offer its first 30-year euro-denominated bond and people familiar said Saudi Arabia proposed rates for it debut offering.

The Czech Republic briefly surpassed Switzerland with the world’s lowest yields, while Petroleos de Venezuela’s notes fell after the state oil company said it would push back a deadline to swap debt.

The MSCI emerging Markets Index rose 1.5 per cent to 907.75 in London, as all but one of the 11 industry groups advanced.

The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index rose 1.9 per cent, its biggest advance since August 1.

China’s economy probably expanded 6.7 per cent in the three months through September from a year earlier, according to the median estimate of analysts surveyed. - United Securities/Bloomberg News

OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN .....................................6,820 ............... 1,569........................1 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.230........... 0.230 .............0.230 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.230..............0.234...................0.236..................339,199,693 ........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 731,416 .......... 305,757..................... 53 ............0.418 ...........0.420 ...........0.416 ............0.418 ............. 0.418............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.416 .............. 0.416...................0.418................1,043,432,608 ......0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION .......................... 91,780 .......... 139,264..................... 26 ............1.515 ........... 1.520 ........... 1.515 ............1.515 ............. 1.515 ............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.520 ...............1.515...................1.520................1,136,250,000 ......0.100 OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 593,936 ......... 401,772..................... 59 ........... 0.680 ...........0.684 ...........0.672........... 0.676 .............0.684 ...........-0.008 ............-1.170................0.680..............0.672...................0.680 ................ 440,038,299 .......0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 469,047 ......... 107,929..................... 29 ........... 0.230 ...........0.232 ...........0.230........... 0.230 .............0.233 ...........-0.003 ........... -1.288 ...............0.230..............0.230...................0.232 .................. 28,726,531 .........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 119,422 ...............8,325......................13 ........... 0.069 ...........0.070 ...........0.069........... 0.070 ............. 0.071............-0.001 ........... -1.408 ...............0.069..............0.069...................0.071...................12,250,000.........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES .......................................87,500 ............. 18,311......................11 ........... 0.208........... 0.210 ...........0.207........... 0.209 .............0.212 ...........-0.003 ............-1.415 ................0.207............. 0.208...................0.216...................62,444,534.........0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER..................................................10,000 ...............1,905........................2 ............0.191 ........... 0.191............0.190........... 0.190 .............0.194 ...........-0.004 ........... -2.062 ...............0.190..............0.190...................0.198..................128,228,612........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 154,635...............8,975........................8 ........... 0.059 ...........0.059 ...........0.058........... 0.058 .............0.060 ...........-0.002 ........... -3.333 ...............0.058..............0.057...................0.058................... 12,014,780 .........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 14,637,917 .2,987,638................... 701 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ..... 20........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 575,010.............55,033..................... 53 ........... 0.094 ...........0.098 ...........0.094........... 0.096 .............0.092 ........... 0.004.............4.348 ................0.097..............0.097...................0.098................... 27,838,141 .........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN .................................................... 1,511,200 ...... 172,976..................... 37 ............0.112 ........... 0.120 ...........0.112 ............0.114 ............. 0.111 ............ 0.003............. 2.703 ................0.116 ...............0.115................... 0.117 ..................228,035,658........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............. 44,950 ............. 11,687........................2 ........... 0.260...........0.260 ...........0.260 .......... 0.260 .............0.256 ........... 0.004............. 1.563 ................0.260............. 0.260...................0.263 ...................5,460,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001400 ...........OMAN FLOUR MILLS ............................................... 777,574 ..........500,395..................... 34 ........... 0.640 ...........0.644 ...........0.640........... 0.644 .............0.636 ........... 0.008............. 1.258 ................0.640..............0.640...................0.648..................101,430,000........0.100 OM0000004776 ...........TAKAFUL OMAN INSURANCE ..............................59,000 ............... 8,031........................5 ............0.135 ........... 0.138 ...........0.135 ............0.136 ............. 0.135.............0.001 ..............0.741.................0.137 .............. 0.136...................0.139...................13,600,000.........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 251,664 ............41,271.....................24 ............0.163 ........... 0.167 ...........0.163 ........... 0.164 ............. 0.163.............0.001 ............. 0.613 ................0.167 .............. 0.167...................0.179 ...................32,800,000 ........0.100 OM0000002549 ...........BANK DHOFAR ............................................................ 130,500 ............28,515........................8 ........... 0.230 ...........0.230 ...........0.218........... 0.219 .............0.218.............0.001 ............. 0.459 ................0.218 ..............0.218...................0.230 .................415,925,107 ........0.100 OM0000001178 ............MUSCAT GASES ..................................................................231 ...................131........................1 ........... 0.566 ........... 0.566 ...........0.566............0.616 ............. 0.616............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.566............. 0.000...................0.000 ..................18,480,000.........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES ..................................................... 521,100.............30,319......................31 ........... 0.058 ...........0.059 ...........0.058........... 0.058 .............0.058 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.059..............0.059...................0.060 ...................7,250,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002440 ...........AL SHARQIA INVESTMENT HOLDING ........... 137,062 .............16,538......................21 ............0.120 ........... 0.123 ...........0.118 ............0.121 ............. 0.121............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.122..............0.120...................0.122...................10,890,000.........0.100 OM0000002580 ...........OMAN EDU. & TRIN. INV. ............................................ 1,000 ...................162........................1 ............0.162 ........... 0.162 ...........0.162 ............0.176 ............. 0.176............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.162 ..............0.162...................0.193...................12,320,000.........0.100 OM0000003281............TAAGEER FINANCE ................................................. 110,000.............11,880........................4 ............0.108 ........... 0.108 ...........0.108........... 0.108 .............0.108 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.108..............0.107...................0.108................... 27,387,720 .........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 1,494,200...... 119,002..................... 28 ........... 0.079 ...........0.080 ...........0.079........... 0.080 .............0.080 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.079..............0.078...................0.079................. 120,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK................................................16,000 .................. 998........................3 ........... 0.063 ...........0.063 ...........0.062........... 0.062 .............0.062 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.062..............0.061...................0.062 ................. 62,000,000 ........0.100 OM0000004669 ...........SHARQIYAH DESALINATION ........................................ 16 .....................72........................1 ........... 4.500...........4.500 ...........4.500 .......... 4.500 .............4.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................4.500 ............ 4.500...................4.950 ..................44,010,972.........1.000 OM0000004735 ...........SEMBCORP SALALAH.............................................. 110,000............ 26,227..................... 10 ........... 0.240...........0.240 ...........0.238........... 0.238 .............0.240 ...........-0.002 ........... -0.833 ...............0.238..............0.238...................0.260 .................227,188,124 ........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING.............36,000 ...............4,608........................2 ............0.128 ........... 0.128 ...........0.128........... 0.128 .............0.130............-0.002 ............-1.538................0.128 ..............0.128...................0.130...................15,600,000 .........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ....................................................31,864 ............... 6,061........................9 ............0.192 ........... 0.192 ...........0.190........... 0.190 ............. 0.197............-0.007 ........... -3.553 ...............0.190..............0.190...................0.200 ................. 135,737,205 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 5,807,371....1,033,904...................274 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......18........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

INDIAN MARKETS

P OV E R T Y A L L E V I AT I O N

Sensex gains 521 Chinese state firms launch $1.8b fund for development of poor regions points; rupee rises SHANGHAI: A group of 51 enterprises run by China’s central government has launched a fund to invest in the country’s poorest regions, as part of a state plan to use market forces in the fight against poverty.

The fund starts at 12.2 billion yuan ($1.83 billion) but firms including the Three Gorges Project Corporation, the State Grid Corporation and the State Development and Investment Corporation will gradually increase it to 100 billion yuan, the State-Owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC) said on Monday on its website.

According to the official Xinhua news agency, 70 million people still live on less than 2,300 yuan per year, which is China’s official poverty line.

China has said it aims to reduce that number by at least 10 million annually, starting this year.

Xinhua said the fund will invest in resources, construct industrial

China’s cabinet said it would launch a pilot programme at the end of the year to develop hydropower and mineral resources in some of the most poverty-stricken regions. It said the programme would allocate stakes in hydropower and mine projects to rural collectives.

parks and promote urbanisation in China’s poorest regions.

It said priority regions included ethnic minority and border areas as well as old “revolutionary bases” of the Chinese Communist Party. In a separate document published on Tuesday, China’s cabinet said it would launch a pilot programme at the end of the year to develop hydropower and mineral resources in some of the most poverty-stricken regions.

It said the programme would allocate stakes in hydropower and mine projects to rural collectives to give impoverished communities a bigger share of the profits.

Sweeping reforms China is in the middle of a sweeping reform programme designed to rejuvenate its lumbering state sector and create industrial champions competing interna-

tionally. But the government and the Communist Party have delivered mixed messages to giant state firms, saying they should be more responsive to the market while fulfilling their social and political responsibilities.

At a meeting this month, Chinese President Xi Jinping told heads of state-owned companies that the party would continue to play a leadership role in reforming the state sector.

He described state-owned enterprises as “the most dependable support for the party and the state” and an important force behind party efforts to “win many more historical victories”, according to an account of the meeting SASAC published. - Reuters

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MUMBAI: Market went all guns blazing after the benchmark Sensex on Tuesday leaped 521 points – its biggest single-day gain in nearly five months — to 28,051 and the Nifty crossed the 8,600mark on a flurry of buying amid solid overseas cues.

Investors were markedly optimistic in anticipation of positive announcements on the GST front as the GST Council meeting got under way to decide on rates and slabs of the indirect tax, due to be rolled out from April 1 next year.

The 30-share BSE Sensex resumed higher and quickly crossed the 28,000-mark to hit a high of 28,064.39 before settling at 28,050.88, a significant gain of 520.91, or 1.89 per cent.

This was the biggest single-day gain since May 25 when it had gained 575.70 points.

The gauge had lost 143.63 points, spooked by tepid start to second quarterly earnings and a lacklustre global trend. The NSE Nifty retook the 8,600-mark to touch a

high of 8,659.80 and finally settled up 157.50 points, or 1.85 per cent, at 8,677.90.

In the process, both the Sensex and the Nifty recorded their biggest single-day gain in nearly five months. Banking hogged all the limelight, with private lender ICICI Bank zooming 4.58 per cent. Axis Bank rose 2.59 per cent, HDFC Bank 1.58 per cent while SBI gained 1.50 per cent.

Rupee recovers The rupee on Tuesday made a smart rebound, gaining a good 15 paise to end at 66.73 on fresh bout of dollar selling by exporters and banks amid weak overseas sentiment.

The home currency resumed on a firm footing at 66.80 from Monday’s close of 66.88 at the Interbank Foreign Exchange market and moved in a narrow range with positive bias throughout the day before ending at 66.73, showing a smart gain of 15 paise, or 0.22 per cent.It had ended lower by 17 paise at 66.88 on Monday. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

B3

MARKET

Opec decision to cut crude output a gift to oil majors Crude prices are near levels where many oil giants have said they can start investing again after billions of dollars of spending cuts and thousands of job losses

LONDON: When the bosses of the world’s biggest oil companies were scheduled to gather in London on Tuesday, they might have the urge to track down the Saudi energy minister and shake him by the hand.

After two years pursuing a Saudi-led strategy to pump without limits, pummeling industry earnings, Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) has unexpectedly come to the aid of the oil majors. Last month, it surprised the market by deciding to cut production and put a floor under volatile crude prices.

The question now is how soon they will resume drilling. Prices are near levels where many majors have said they can start investing again after billions of dollars of spending cuts and thousands of job losses sent discoveries to the lowest level in 70 years.

In United States shale fields, explorers are already adding rigs, boosting oilfield work to the highest since February.

“After all the hell we’ve had, there should be a pick-up now,” said Danilo Onorino, a portfolio

OPEC DEAL: Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Khalid Al Falih has said getting explorers to start drilling again is one of the reasons behind the Opec deal. – Bloomberg News

manager at Dogma Capital, which owns oil companies’ bonds. “The industry has been damaged in the past two years and things need to start improving.”

Investing again Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister Khalid Al Falih has said getting explorers to start drilling again is one of the reasons behind the Opec deal.

He’ll be joined at the Oil and Money conference by company bosses that include BP’s Bob Dudley, Rex Tillerson of Exxon Mobil and Chevron John Watson.

“He needs to convince everyone to start investing again else there is a big supply crisis coming,” Onorino said. “If prices remain at

P O LY P R O P Y L E N E B A G S

these levels for about six months, the industry’s spending should start moving higher.”

Oil’s slump has forced Saudi Arabia, Opec’s de facto leader, to cut fuel subsidies and even borrow money to finance its budget.

Though the kingdom needs higher prices, it will be wary of a jump that could spur development of alternative energies and limit demand for its vast resources of crude.

While Brent has climbed as high as $53.73 a barrel since oil producers announced a preliminary deal in Algiers on September 28, prices remain at less than half their mid-2014 level. Still, if crude holds above $50, it may be enough to encourage spending by an industry made leaner by two years

of cost cuts.

The global benchmark added 0.6 per cent to $51.85 in Singapore.

Total, France’s largest oil company, is “almost happy” to see crude at $50 to $55, chief executive officer Patrick Pouyanne said in Istanbul on October 11. The CEO welcomed Opec’s decision to limit supply, saying that investment cuts in the industry had blocked new projects, threatening to cause an oil shortage by 2020.

investments low, cutting to below $17 billion this year from $23 billion in 2014.

“We can’t lose our discipline on costs at any time, or let capital expenditure slide out of tight control,” BP’s Dudley said in a speech last week in Istanbul. In the past, “we have let costs drift up when prices are high, then cut back when prices fall.”

Opec’s policy of pumping at full throttle in spite of low prices to defend market share punished drillers. At the same time, it drove down operating expenses and compelled companies to find creative ways to save money.

Because the majors have succeeded in pushing costs so low, they’re well-positioned to benefit if prices rise, said Iain Armstrong, a London-based analyst at Brewin Dolphin, which owns shares in both Shell and BP. “Shareholders have been united in forcing cash conservation, project cancellations and the preservation of dividends,” said Alex Blein, a portfolio manager at Amundi, which manages more than $1 trillion of assets, including shares in Exxon and Chevron.

“Higher prices will help cash generation and repair damaged balance sheets.”

For companies to start spending, the recent oil rally must be sustained. Even at the Opec meeting at Algiers, fractures within the group emerged that threaten to derail a final agreement on quotas, expected in Vienna on November 30. The deal will probably exempt some members, including Iran, Libya and Nigeria. - Bloomberg News

Cost discipline BP has said it will be able to balance cash flow with shareholder payouts and capital spending at $50 to $55 a barrel next year. The company is taking on more debt to maintain dividends and is keeping

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AUTOMOTIVE

Ford Motor to idle four factories over slowing sales MICHIGAN: Ford Motor Co. is temporarily halting one of two plants that builds the top-selling F-150 pickup as it idles four factories this month amid slowing United States auto sales.

This week, Ford is shutting its Louisville, Kentucky, factory building the Escape and Lincoln MKC sport utility vehicles, as well as two plants in Mexico that make the Fusion sedan and Fiesta subcompact, according to an e-mail.

F-150 factory Next week, the second-largest US automaker said, it will close the F-150 factory near Kansas City for seven days. And starting October 31, the Louisville plant will be idled for another week, Ford said.

The plant closings follow last week’s shutdown of Ford’s Mustang factory in Michigan after sales of the sports car plunged 32 per cent in September. The US auto sales are slowing as many analysts predict the industry won’t match last year’s record of 17.5 million cars and light trucks.

Ford chief executive officer Mark Fields has said the US auto market has plateaued and that showroom sales are weakening.

F-series sales fall “We said we expected the overall retail industry to decline in the second half of the year,” Kelli Felker, a Ford spokeswoman, said in the statement.

F-series sales fell 2.6 per cent last month as a pickup price war heated up. Escape sales dropped 12 per cent in September as Ford faced competitive pressure from the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV. Fusion sales plunged 18 per cent and Fiesta was off 40 per cent as car sales continue to languish with low fuel prices pushing buyers into trucks and SUVs. - Bloomberg News

R E N E WA B L E E N E R G Y

India plans $3.1b package of state aid for solar panel manufacturers

FINAL STAGES: The Salalah project is in the final stages of commissioning and expected to start its commercial production on January 1, 2017. – Supplied picture

Trial run of Salalah plastic project to start next month Times News Service MUSCAT: A new project to produce woven sacks in Salalah is in the final stages of commissioning.

Salalah International Plastic Industries (SIPI) will have a capacity to produce 48 million polypropylene woven bags per annum.

Salalah International Plastic Industries is established by Salalah Mills in Raysut Industrial Estate, according to a press release.

The project is in the final stages of commissioning and the trial run

will be starting next month and expected to start its commercial production on January 1, 2017.

State-of-the-art technology SIPI has state-of-the-art technology using high-end European equipment manufactured by an Austrian firm, Starlinger, who are the global market leaders in supplying such equipment.

SIPI is managed and run by industry leaders who are highly skilled and experienced in the relevant field.

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government is planning a Rs210 billion ($3.1 billion) package of state aid for India’s solar panel manufacturing industry, according to two officials.

The so-called Prayas initiative, short for ‘Pradhan Mantri Yojana for Augmenting Solar Manufacturing’, a central-government plan designed to lift India’s installed photovoltaic capacity as well as to create an export industry, according to two senior government officials with direct knowledge of the plan. They asked not to be identified because the policy isn’t yet public.

Modi wants to raise renewable capacity to 175 gigawatts by 2022 from 45 gigawatts at present. In addition to meeting its own energy targets, which Bloomberg New Energy Finance estimates may cost $200 billion, India wants to emulate industrial developments in neighbouring China, where solar manufacturers have created a world-leading export industry.

The Prayas programme, part of Modi’s ‘Make in India’ campaign, is intended to create 5 gigawatts of photovoltaic manufacturing capacity from 2019 and build 20 gigawatts of projects in the country by 2026, according to the officials.

The policy, which is being developed by the ministry in charge of renewable energy and industrial policy, along with the Niti Aay-

RENEWABLE ENERGY: India wants to emulate industrial developments in neighbouring China, where solar manufacturers have created a world-leading export industry. – Bloomberg News

og government research group, will be presented to the Finance Ministry within a month before going to the cabinet for final approval, they said.

China’s production Last month Power Minister Piyush Goyal said in Mumbai that a policy to encourage domestic manufacturing of solar equipment is in works. When reached on phone, the spokesman for the power and renewable energy ministries declined to comment.

India has become one of the biggest clients of Chinese photovoltaic manufacturers and in the

absence of its own domestic capacity, that reliance could potentially grow. In the first six months of 2016, India imported 18 percent of China’s production worth $1.1 billion, according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance.

India’s policy proposal, expected to create thousands of jobs, is also in response to the industry’s demand for help the solar manufacturers, one official said, adding that multiple tenders of a few hundred megawatts each would be issued for the manufacture of everything from wafers to modules.

The government could offer about Rs9 million a megawatt for

manufacturing tenders and 5 million rupees a megawatt for local deployment, according to one of the officials, who said the numbers are subject to change.

The plan “might give a price advantage” if the manufacturinghub logistics are “well planned,” according to Bloomberg New Energy Finance analyst Jenny Chase. Money alone isn’t a sufficient incentive for companies to set up the most high-tech automated factories needed to compete, she said.

Japan’s SoftBank said last month it’s considering a manufacturing joint venture in India. - Bloomberg News

B4

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

FEATURE

EMBRAER AND MARCOPOLO LEAD BRAZIL STRUGGLE TO SELL TO IRAN

Brazilian companies such as Embraer and Marcopolo are scrambling to close multibillion-dollar deals to sell planes and buses to Iran, which is seeking to navigate remaining United States financial sanctions.

T

he planemaker is in advanced negotiations to sell at least 20 E195 jets with a total list price of more than $1 billion, while the bus manufacturer is in talks to supply part of the 27,000 units Tehran is seeking, according to Mahdi Rounagh, a senior official at Iran’s Foreign Ministry and until recently deputy ambassador in Brasilia.

The problem is that Brazilian banks are reluctant to deal with Iran for fear of penalties by the United States, even after Washington lifted restrictions on non-US banks.

Their concern is that their US assets and subsidiaries could classify them as US banks, according to two senior bank executives in Brasilia. Business and government officials say Brazil must try harder to find alternatives, such as using smaller European banks that don’t operate in the US. “We have been in contact with several banks to explain that it is possible to find solutions that would benefit not only Brazilian companies but the banks themselves,” Rodrigo de Azeredo Santos, Brazil’s top diplomat for trade, said in an interview. He didn’t name the banks because the discussions are not public. “We are talking about big contracts.”

“We have no objection and we do not stand in the way of foreign banks engaging with Iranian banks and companies, obvi-

ously as long as those banks and companies are not on our sanctions list for nonnuclear reasons,” US Secretary of State John Kerry said in remarks before meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in April. Any financial transactions cannot be done in US dollars or involve the US financial system.

The US Embassy in Brasilia did not reply to repeated requests for comments on sanctions on Iran and their implications on Brazilian trade deals.

Most nuclear-related sanctions started to be eased last year under a historic deal with major powers. The multilateral Financial Action Task Force (FATF) decided in June to put some Iran restrictions on hold for one year.

Exports Export deals could strengthen the new administration of President Michel Temer in its efforts to boost revenue and create more jobs as the unemployment rate surges to 11.8 per cent. Whether Brazil will be able to pull off the deals estimated to be worth at least $2 billion and keep up with some of its global competitors, will also be a gauge of his administration’s pledge to cut through red tape and promote a business friendly environment.

Outside of Brazil, PSA Group this year

We have no objection and we do not stand in the way of foreign banks engaging with Iranian banks and companies, obviously as long as those banks and companies are not on our sanctions list for nonnuclear reasons John Kerry Secretary of State, United States

agreed in principle to two joint-ventures to assemble cars in Iran after withdrawing from the country in 2012. Iran’s industry minister in June said he hopes to sign contracts with a German carmaker soon.

“Of course we have every interest in promoting trade with Iran, it’s an attractive market,” Brazilian foreign minister Jose Serra told Bloomberg on the sidelines of an event in New York in September. “We’re all working hard on this.”

Embraer has been courting Iranian carriers. In late August it invited 200 Iranian businessmen and politicians to showcase one of its jets at a Tehran airport, according to a company statement sent by email. Economy Minister Ali Tayebnia is scheduled to head a business delegation in a visit to Brazil in November, according to both foreign ministries.

“Embraer is keen to develop successful relationships with Iran’s airline operators,” the company said in the e-mail. The company is also seeking an export license from Washington to sell Iran its jets, which contain US-made components.

Boeing and Airbus last month obtained such licences to renew Iran’s ageing fleet of aircraft. Airbus said in an e-mail that it expects to begin delivering this year and that the deal’s financing is confidential.

An executive for Marcopolo said there

are still issues on how Iran could pay Brazilian companies. “There are financial obstacles regarding letters of credit,” said Ricardo Portolan, the company’s export manager.

To keep up with its competitors, Brazil needs to be more creative in finding financing alternatives, said Senator Armando Monteiro, who headed a business delegation to Tehran last year when he was trade minister. “We could use oil as a currency or be paid through investments in refinery plants in Iran, for example,” he said.

Brazilian banks have been in touch with US Treasury officials and are exploring means to set up triangular transactions via smaller European banks, according to Azeredo.

Banco do Brasil, which handles much of the country’s foreign trade financial transactions, said in a statement that “it respects legislation and international agreements in regard to the issue,” in response to a question on its role in financing trade deals between Brazilian companies and Iran.

“Brazilians have to make sure we can close the deals quickly. Our needs are urgent. If we can’t reach an agreement, we’ll purchase what we need from other countries,” said Rounagh, the Iranian diplomat. - Bloomberg News

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B5

ROUND-UP

Exclusive offers on GMC 2016 models to end soon

CALEDONIAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Recycled masonry block project at CCE wins award for best research work

This last week of promotion, a customer will be eligible for cash gift ranging from OMR5,000 – OMR3,000 depending on the model

MUSCAT: The GMC line-up is all about precision – be it in the design, technology or premium materials used for interiors.

A brand that stands out on the road, and now even in pricing until October 24, GMC ‘Commands Respect’ in all possible ways. The tempting packages are extended to all 2016 models, making it a tough decision to zero in on one.

This last week of promotion, a customer will be eligible for cash gift ranging from OMR5,000 – OMR3,000 depending on the model. In addition, complimentary 30,000km service on select models, free gift vouchers on limited vehicles up to the value

of OMR100, 500 litres petrol or equivalent of OMR77, free registration and five years extended warranty unlimited mileage, make for an irresistible package that is on offer exclusively in Oman, says a press release.

“Be it from an appearance standpoint or capability standpoint, GMC vehicles make a clear statement of being a premium product,” stated Virendra Aggarwal, CEO – Moosa Abdul Rahman and Co. At a starting price of OMR11,995 for an Acadia SLE, the spacious 8-seater model comes with Intellink Bluetooth, rear view camera, parking sensors, remote start and cooling as well as cruise control as standard features. The customer will also be able to avail of cash gift up to OMR4,000 (with the exception of Acadia SLE 2WD), free 30,000km service, OMR100 gift vouchers, 500 litres petrol or equivalent of OMR77, free regis-

tration and five years extended warranty with unlimited mileage.

Yet another power-packed performer, the Terrain, starts at OMR8,995 for 2.4L SLE. Purchase of a Terrain will also entitle a customer to cash gift up to OMR3000, OMR100 gift vouchers and complimentary 30,000km service.

However, this will not be valid on Terrain SLE 1 2WD. Other benefits include 500 litres petrol or equivalent of OMR77, free registration and five years extended warranty with unlimited mileage.

Among the most recognisable SUVs on the road to date are the iconic Yukon and Yukon XL from OMR16,995 onwards. Purchase of a Yukon will come with a cash gift up to OMR5,000 (with the exception of Yukon SLE 2WD), free 30,000km service, OMR100 gift vouchers, 500 litres petrol or equivalent of OMR77, free registration and five years extended warranty

WOMEN EMPOWERMENT

with unlimited mileage.

The Sierra line-up is led by the light duty Sierra 1500 Regular Cab Work Truck 4.3L starting at an attractive price from OMR11,995.

Complementing the line-up is the Sierra 1500 Regular Cab 5.3L at OMR13,995. Purchase of a Sierra will also entitle a customer to cash gift up to OMR5,000 and OMR100 gift vouchers.

However, this will not be extended to Sierra Reg Cab 4.3L & 5.3L 18”W. Other benefits include complimentary 30,000km service (not extended to Sierra Reg Cab 4.3L), 500 litres petrol or equivalent of OMR77, free registration and five years extended warranty with unlimited mileage.

Moosa Abdul Rahman Hassan & Co is the exclusive distributor of GMC vehicles in the Sultanate of Oman with branches and a service network that covers all major locations across Oman.

MUSCAT: A project to develop masonry blocks by using industrial waste at Caledonian College of Engineering (CCE) has received an award for best research work in the Environmental and Biological Recourses Sector at the Annual Research Forum held by the The Research Council of Oman.

A team consisting of students and one staff member from the Department of Built and Natural Environment at CCE carried out the research to develop economical and environmentally-friendly masonry blocks using industrial waste, spent catalyst and waste paper, says a press release.

The project, to reuse industrial waste thereby reducing the impact on the environment, received a grant from The Research Council (TRC) Oman under the Faculty Mentored Undergraduate Research Project scheme.

The award is conferred for a project that shows innovation and creativity while taking into account the technology used and socioeconomic outcomes.

The developed product arising out of this project has the potential to become a future SME – an outcome highlighted by Dr Ahmed Hassan Al Bulushi, dean

of CCE, who appreciated the achievement of the team for successfully completing the project and winning the award.

It is noticed that oil refineries in Oman are producing 20 tons per day of spent catalyst which is categorised as hazardous waste material. Presently this waste is dumped on the land thus causing environmental concern.

At present this waste is seldom recycled, contributing instead 1.7 million tonnes of solid waste generate in Oman each year. As per Be’ah 2013, solid waste in Oman is characterised by a very high percentage of recyclables, primarily paper and cardboard. Only 45 per cent of this waste is recycled and 55 per cent goes to landfill.

The research team, consisting of Talal Al Shibani (Team Leader), Adnan (Team Member) and Dr Sanjay Govind Patil (Faculty Mentor), identified the dumping of this material in land fill as a national loss contradictory to the principles of a sustainable future and undertook research to turn the paper and spent catalyst waste into masonry blocks.

A charcaterisation study was conducted on these waste materials to ensure that they could be used to develop masonry blocks.

O M A N I W O M E N ’ S D AY

Oman Air recognises its best performing women BankDhofar celebrates Women's Day MUSCAT: As the Omani Women’s Day is celebrated across the Sultanate on October 17 every year, BankDhofar conducted an organisation-wide function to mark the occasion.

The event was attended by Abdul Hakeem Omar Al Ojaili, acting CEO of BankDhofar, Dr Khalid Salim Al Hamadani, head of Learning & Development, and senior bank officials and employees, says a press release.

Commenting on the event, Nasser Said Al Bahantah, Chief Human Resources Office at BankDhofar, reiterated the bank’s commitment to support Omani women across all organisational levels, stressing that there are various developmental programmes and career growth initiatives that are launched constantly to support women in the workforce. “We have

BankDhofar has been a leader in terms of supporting and empowering women inside and outside the organisation

been working constantly to empower women in our organisation through strategic initiatives that contribute to their personal and professional growth. Today, over 41% of our employee body comprises of women, many of them are

in leadership positions,” he noted.

BankDhofar has been a leader in terms of supporting and empowering women inside and outside the organisation. The bank attracts talented Omanis and puts in place tailored programmes and schemes to fast-forward their professional growth. Additionally, the bank has set a bundle of diverse products and services to suit the needs and requirements of its female customers in all parts of Oman.

“Omani women have proved their outstanding capability and tremendous potential to hugely push forward the national development of the Sultanate. They have excelled in various fields, including the financial sector. We are proud to see our female colleagues at BankDhofar hold leadership positions in different unites and departments within the bank,” added Al Bahantah.

MUSCAT: Oman Air celebrated Omani Women’s Day as the company recognised its best performing females who were invited to a small ceremony.

Paul Gregorowitsch, chief executive officer of Oman Air, handed over special gifts to the selected colleagues and joined the management in the cake cutting ceremony, says a press release.

Commenting on this occasion, Gregorowitsch said: “Great progress has already been made over the years to empower Omani women and they are now represented at every level, both in Oman and the rest of the world.

Here at Oman Air we are reliant on our female work force in an extensive range of roles and there

Oman Air’s commitment to employing and supporting women in the workplace is part of a broader human resources strategy of recognising the skills, abilities, commitment and contributions of all staff, regardless of their backgrounds is no doubt that they have been instrumental in ensuring our continuous growth and success. On Omani Women’s Day I would like to take the opportunity not just to congratulate and thank our best performing females, but to thank all the women employed by Oman Air for their hard work and ongo-

ing contribution to the business.”

Oman Air’s commitment to employing and supporting women in the workplace is part of a broader human resources strategy of recognising the skills, abilities, commitment and contributions of all staff, regardless of their backgrounds.

B6

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

ROUND-UP D I G I TA L G AT E WAY

beIN launches online subscription through beIN Connect platform

Toyota ‘Festival of Joy’ promotion to end soon Toyota’s Festival of Joy promotion is offering customers up to OMR2,200 as a cash gift

MUSCAT: Toyota’s currently running promotional offer ‘Festival of Joy’ is about to end soon.

“Yes, it is true that the campaign is in its last few days. So you can say that there is no time to waste ... ‘right now’ is the ‘right time’ to make the best of it,” advised a company spokesperson. “If one is late then one may later regret… so go for it before it’s all over!”

Toyota’s Festival of Joy promotion is offering customers up to

OMR2,200 as a cash gift, says a press release.

“This makes it so easy to own a Toyota,” remarked an enthusiast and added, “People who have been looking to buy a Toyota…can you imagine how overjoyed they feel to know that their favourite Toyota models are so easy to own. In fact, most of the Toyota models are now available with attractive cash gifts.

The amount varies between model, model variants and model year.

Comprehensive 1-year insurance or service package up to 3 years / 30,000km are also being offered on select models during the campaign period. Customers are free to avail cashback in lieu of the service/ insurance benefit as applicable for respective models. In case a customer chooses service, insurance (as applicable), they will not be eligible for “cash in lieu of benefits.” Other conditions may also apply on the ‘Festival of Joy’ campaign benefits.

MUSCAT: MSE, the authorised distributor of beIN announced that, beIN Media Group, a major player in global sports rights through its beIN Sports brand, has announced online subscription through its beIN Connect platform.

Customers can now pay cash to get this service. This allows customers who do not have a credit card to subscribe through MSE Al-Khuwair showroom or any of their dealers across the country, says a press release. beIN Connect is a digital gateway to the coverage of top rated movies, family entertainment, and all live and exclusive world class sports which allows any time and anywhere access from your computer, laptop, smartphone and tablet (ioS and Andriod) within the MENA (Middle east and North Africa) region.

It provides access to the world’s best and biggest championships, blockbuster movies, regional and global entertainment with 48 Exclusive channels, dedicated packages and online streaming. beIN connect provides 1080 HD quality channels presenting sport and

Customers can now pay cash to get this service.

This allows customers who do not have a credit card to subscribe through MSE Al-Khuwair showroom or any of their dealers across the country entertainment in vivid quality. beIN Connect is now offered at a very attractive rate with only OMR78 annually. Short term packages are also available allowing viewers’ access to one day and one month packages. beIN Connect is offered free for subscribers of Complete, Elite and Elite Duo packages.

Mustafa Sultan Enterprises Entertainment Factory (Pay-TV) division is pioneer in Pay TV business for more than 20 years and is the distributor for OSN in Oman.

H I G H E R E D UC AT I O N E X P O

Manpower Ministry undersecretary inaugurates EduTraC MUSCAT: EduTraC Oman 2016 was officially inaugurated by Hamad bin Khamis bin Abdullah Al Amri, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Manpower at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre yesterday.

The inauguration was also attended by several officials and delegates from various ministries, local universities and colleges and professionals from the education sector. The expo since its inception in 2014, has grown to bridge E X PA N S I O N

ing institutes offering vocational, technical and occupational training programmes. It will also enable visitors to find suitable job opportunities offered by top public and private organisations operating in different sectors in the Sultanate. The participating countries are United Kingdom, The United States of America, Malaysia, Cyprus, India, Lebanon, Spain, etc.

Hamad Al-Amri said, “Education not only helps us in progressing in

the gap between international higher education institutions and students in Oman planning to study abroad, says a press release.

The expo welcomes those interested in pursuing their higher education abroad to explore the variety of courses being offered and to meet representatives from universities, higher education institutions and English language course providers. Visitors can meet leading local and international train-

life but also makes people aware of their rights and duties towards the nation. Education provides many opportunities in various fields for the development of the country and also makes people independent, builds confidence and self-esteem, which is very important for the development of a country. EduTraC Oman is a great event and is a great platform to improve the quality of human resources of Oman and build a better economy.”

PERSONAL FINANCING SOLUTIONS

Modern Exchange opens new outlet Alizz makes dreams come true MUSCAT: Modern Exchange opened its 26th branch, near Fatima Shopping Centre, Ruwi recently making it easy and convenient for all the customers in and around the area to send money to their loved ones back home.

The new outlet was inaugurated

by Abdul Latheef, managing director of Badr Al Samaa Group of Hospitals, says a press release.

Philip Koshy, GM of Modern Exchange said, “Small gestures like these help us go a long way in building goodwill and relationship with our customers. Our aim is to not only meet customers’ expectation but also to beat customers’ expectation. Our customers give us the reason to remain focused and strong and in return we offer exclusive benefits.”

MUSCAT: Alizz Islamic Bank has stated that its personal finance options – ‘Services Ijarah’ and ‘Goods Murabaha’ – are helping customers realise their dreams by enabling them to pursue their higher education or get married or purchase a variety of goods ranging from furniture to electronic and household appliances at competitive prices, says a press release.

The educational finance option allows customers to receive up to OMR25,000 based on the Islamic finance principle of ‘Services Ijarah’, with settlement period extending up to 60 months.

Payments under the scheme are made directly to the educational institution based on the official tuition fee schedule.

Under the ‘Services Ijarah’ option, the bank enters into agreements with various service providers to lease the services required by the customer and then sublease them to the customer on the basis of ‘Ijarah’. The contract signed by the bank and the customer will set the amount of rent, the mode of payment, the term of the contract and all other terms and conditions.

The bank has developed ‘Goods Murabaha’ as the perfect option for anyone who wants to purchase furniture, electronic and household appliances and other devices at flexible and competitive rates.

Both the options come with a world of benefits and features, and are open to Omani nationals as well as resident expatriates;

both salaried and self-employed individuals. Finance is available for up to 100% of the value of the goods, and requires simple documentation with fast and easy approval process.

“Our financing solutions come with a number of facilities that add value to our customers. When we designed these two products, we were keen to make them affordable to all our customers to enable them to purchase whatever they needed and make their dreams come true.

“Customers applying for the schemes can also benefit from the easy approval process and simple documentation requirements,” explained Moosa Al Jadidi, chief operating officer, Alizz Islamic Bank.

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ROUND-UP

Renault Talisman offers distinctive blend of comfort, driving enjoyment Talisman features a distinctive combination of assertive styling; a warm, spacious cabin; comfort-enhancing innovations and technology for intense enjoyment

MUSCAT: The recently unveiled Renault Talisman which packs style and real driving enjoyment has been well received by auto enthusiasts in Oman.

The Renault Talisman features a distinctive combination of assertive styling; a warm, spacious cabin; comfort-enhancing innovations and technology for intense enjoyment. With a distinctive blend of comfort and driving enjoyment, the large sleek saloon car Renault Talisman offers a pleasur-

able experience for both drivers and passengers alike. The Talisman is built to the very highest quality standards and meticulous attention has been paid to every detail, says a press release.

Renault Oman, from the house of Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA), which launched Renault Talisman in Oman has received an enthusiastic response from customers and car aficionados.

A spokesperson for Renault Oman said, “The Talisman is built

to the very highest quality standards and thorough attention has been paid to every detail. Talisman customers have appreciated it for being strong on styling, comfort, customisable driving sensations, safety, and technology. Independent professionals, company owners, sales executives and senior management looking for a status-enhancing, spacious and comfortable vehicle for their family have shown

EXCITING OFFERS

a lot of interest to buy the vehicle.”

“The Renault Talisman comes with 3 years/100,000km standard manufacturer’s warranty. Spacious cabin, comfort-enhancing innovations, low running costs and low fuel consumption figure prominently amongst the Talisman’s core strengths,” he added.

With the latest in technology providing both performance and efficiency, Talisman’s Energy TCe

190 engine is equally effective for driving enjoyment and fuel economy. It is equipped with Stop & Start (engine standby mode) and Energy Smart Management (energy recovery during deceleration and braking). With a class-leading Energy TCe 190 turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine, it ensures efficiency, with 190hp on tap, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of as low as 17km/litre and 139g/km respectively. A normally aspirated engine is available as well.

The Renault Talisman delivers an immersive driving pleasure thanks to Multi-Sense technology which matches the driver’s mood of the moment. The Talisman features electronic damper control for outstanding on-road dynamics that combine manoeuvrability, performance and comfort.

It offers a spacious, comfortable cabin and a boot of a capacity of 608dm3 (VDA) combined with

sleek exterior lines, generous front seats with meticulously-finished upholstery and the class’s most comprehensive list of functions (air conditioned, massaging, heated, ventilated).

Talisman’s technologies – connected R-LINK 2 with an 8.7-inch touch screen display, BOSE Surround sound, a colour head-up display, a cowled 7-inch digital instrument display and a comprehensive range of driver aids, including hands-free parking – is designed to enhance the lives of motorists.

Together, these innovations will ensure that the Talisman appeals as much because of the unique travelling experience it delivers as through its sleek styling.

SBA is largely committed to supporting Renault Oman’s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class after-sales services in Oman.

P R O T E C T I N G H E A LT H , E N V I R O N M E N T

Malabar Gold ‘Delightful Diwali’ Cleaning and Facility Management campaign to reward customers conference to be held in November MUSCAT: Malabar Gold & Diamonds’, the prominent global jewellery retailer, unveiled the ‘Delightful Diwali’ campaign in Oman commencing from today.

This season, Malabar Gold & Diamonds showcases the latest collection of gold, diamond and precious gems jewellery in their outlets, to celebrate this festive period. Malabar Gold give their customers an opportunity to win big this festive season, making their Diwali a delightful one.

Scratch N Win coupons Customers get a guaranteed gold coin or up to 500 gold coins instantly on purchase of gold jewellery worth OMR250 via Scratch N Win coupons, says a press release.

Adding to the above, customers also get two gram gold coin on diamond jewellery purchase of OMR500 and a one gram gold coin on purchase of diamond jewellery worth OMR300.

Other exciting offers that cus-

tomers can avail during the campaign are no making charges for 8 gram gold coins.

Customers can also protect the gold rate at Malabar Gold & Diamonds on payment of 10% of the entire amount on the selected gold jewellery, this offer being valid until October 28.

Furthermore, customers can avail the zero deduction offer on 22K (GCC) gold jewellery exchange as well.

All the other aforementioned of-

fers are valid until November 5.

To add more glitter to this season, they have also unveiled the latest collection of jewellery specially designed for Diwali in gold, diamonds and precious gems to suit the tastes of their multicultural and multinational customers. Malabar Gold & Diamonds has incorporated these designs as a part of various brands presented at Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ namely Ethnix - Handcrafted Designer Jewellery, Era - Uncut Diamond Jewellery, Mine - Diamonds Unlimited, Divine- Indian Heritage Jewellery and Precia - Precious Gem Jewellery.

Malabar Gold & Diamonds has always been at the forefront in gold jewellery manufacturing, wholesaling and retailing and plans on being the ‘most- preferred’ jewellery retailer in the market in the coming years.

The group strives to continue embarking on its journey by further expanding in the near future.

MUSCAT: Under the patronage of Muscat Municipality and Ministry of Manpower, OITE announced the Sultanate’s first Oman Cleaning & Facility Management (OCFM) conference with the theme ‘Together towards protecting health, facility & environment’.

Scheduled to be held on November 16-17 at Crowne Plaza Muscat, the conference will be attended by top executives, decision-makers and key policy makers from various organisations including: The cleaning and facilities management professionals, building owners, property managers, pest control professionals and many more, the conference will cover the complete spectrum of the facilities management industry, says a press release.

The first day of the conference will focus on the products, people and practices to enhance health, efficiency and reduce the cost involved in the FM industry. It will be a line-up of world-class pre-

senters covering everything from the nuts and bolts of facility management, to the future of hi-tech buildings and to the trends regarding sustainability and reducing environmental impact. Some of the speakers include Karl Dixon, GM- Interserve Oman; Adrian Jarvis, GM-FSI Solutions Middle East; Neelesh Sogani, Corporate HSE manager - Powertech Engineering; Hassan Benhamadi, Sulo-Plastic Omnium group France; Ashok D. Khemlani, Clean India Group; Jennifer Peltenburg, S&M director, Interserve; Francisco Jimenez, sales director, Bucher Municipal AG and speaker from Ministry of Manpower.

The second day of the conference will aim to converge solution providers and government bodies at one platform towards assessing the best solutions for improving the standards of Pest Control across the Sultanate. The speakers include from Muscat Municipality; Sumitomo Corporation;

Eng Safwan Al Fakhri – Orkin; Dr Marshed M. N. Kharusy – Sur Overseas; Dr Ali Al WahaibiSultan Qaboos University and a speaker from Al Ariq Equipment.

“The event has received supported from Middle East Facility Management Association, Oman Society of Engineers and Oman Green Building Council. The sponsoring companies include Tanzifco and Kalhat Services & Trading as platinum sponsor, Oman International Group – OIG as gold sponsor, Al Jarwani Hospitality, Interserve Oman, Al Ariq Equipment, Teejan Equipment, Muscat Overseas Engineering Services Co, Easy Business, FSI (FM Solutions) Middle East FZ, Oman Shapoorji Company Limited (OSCO) as silver sponsor,” said Zaheer Ahmed, exhibition director, OITE. Alongside the conference, there would be a business matchmaking area, where the delegates could meet and interact with the sponsoring companies.

B8

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

ROUND-UP

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baituna committed to home for every family The attractive features of Bank Muscat’s baituna home finance include low interest rates with maximum loan tenure up to 25 years for Omani customers

MUSCAT: The popular baituna home finance by Bank Muscat continues to provide customers the option to buy their dream home.

In step with the bank’s ‘Let’s Do More’ vision and commitment to partnership in facilitating a home for every family, baituna facilitates access to prime residential projects in Oman as all leading property developers are associated with the bank, says a press release.

The attractive features of baituna home finance include low

interest rates with maximum loan tenure up to 25 years for Omani customers. The low interest rate is a big attraction to avail the best home finance deals in the Sultanate. Citizens and residents can obtain easy and convenient credit approval across the bank’s branches and dedicated baituna centres in the Sultanate.

In a special gesture, the bank offers Ministry of Education employees the facility to borrow up to OMR500,000 with 6 month instal-

ment and interest holiday to make repayments easier. The 6 months waiver is only available for purchasing ready homes and apartments across Oman.

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

across the bank’s extensive network of branches and dedicated centres. Omani and GCC nationals can avail baituna finance for purchase and construction of new homes as well as land for residential use while expatriate customers can avail home finance for properties in integrated tourism complex. The bank also undertakes refinancing of home finance.

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

U N L I M I T E D I N S TA G R A M A C C E S S

Omantel unveils new Hayyak prepaid promo Sultanate use this platform every day to share moments of their lives with friends and loved ones, in addition to promoting businesses and projects.

MUSCAT: Omantel has revealed the latest Hayyak prepaid promotion that gives subscribers unlimited access to Instagram.

Unrestricted use For only OMR2 per month, Hayyak subscribers can enjoy unrestricted use of the photo and video-sharing app without impacting their existing data balance or plan, says a press release.

Commenting on the Hayyak Instagram offer, Ali Bait Fadhil, senior manager, Marketing Planning & Performance at Omantel Consumer Unit commented, “Instagram is one of the most popular social networks around the world, and in Oman it’s no different. Hundreds of thousands of people across the

Instagram is one of the most popular social networks around the world, and in Oman is no different. Omantel is delighted to launch the ‘Hayyak Instagram Promotion’ so that customers can make the most of Instagram without impacting their data plans Ali Bait Fadhil Senior manager, Marketing Planning & Performance at Omantel Consumer Unit

Value pack “With this in mind, Omantel is delighted to launch the ‘Hayyak Instagram Promotion’ so that customers can make the most of Instagram without impacting their data plans. At Omantel we are committed to delivering the best value packages to our loyal Hayyak subscribers, and we’re constantly evolving our packages and offers accordingly.”

The promotion, running until December 25, can be activated simply by dialing the *223*1#.

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SPECIAL OCCASION

Suhail Bahwan Group celebrates Omani Women’s Day in style MUSCAT: Many Omani women employees from various companies under Suhail Bahwan Group gathered to celebrate Omani Women’s Day at the group’s headquarters at Al Rawaq in Qurum.

Amal Suhail Bahwan, vice chairperson of Suhail Bahwan Group, joined her Omani colleagues to celebrate the joyous occasion with the cutting of a cake, says a press release.

“Omani women have made tremendous strides in recent years with several achievements to their credit signifying the important role they play in society,” said Amal.

“The Omani Women’s Day is not just a day of celebration but a day of motivation and encouragement for all Omani women to achieve more and prove their mettle,” she added.

Omani Women’s Day is celebrated across Oman in response to the royal directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said allocating October 17 as the day for Omani women.

The Suhail Bahwan Group has commenced several initiatives for the Omani employees particularly the women employees that include recognising and

The Omani Women’s Day is not just a day of celebration but a day of motivation and encouragement for all Omani women to achieve more and prove their mettle Amal Suhail Bahwan Vice chairperson of Suhail Bahwan Group

awarding the best employees of the month, regular training programmes to upgrade their professional skills, etc.

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AUSTRALIA’S WAUGH, GILLESPIE OPEN TO CHIEF SELECTOR >C2

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OMAN READY FOR WCL DIVISION 4, SAYS MENDIS While coach Duleep Mendis declared Oman’s readiness for WCL Division 4 competition, skipper Ajay Lalcheta hoped that the Sultanate’s squad open their campaign on a positive note. >C4

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Guardiola’s biggest Manchester City test on emotional return to Barcelona PEP TALK: Omani driver Abdullah Al Rawahi is all attention as team officials explain a point ahead of first official practice of the 2016 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals at Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno, in southern Italy. – Supplied photo

Assured show by Oman’s Abdullah Even as five of the 12-strong UAE and Oman team were in top 15 in their respective groups after the first official practice, Omani driver Abdullah Al Rawahi performed well to be in the 12th fastest in the DD2 category

MUSCAT: Talented Omani driver Abdullah Al Rawahi came up with an assured performance in DD2 category on Day 2 of the 2016 Rotax Max Challenge Grand Finals as Team UAE and Oman drivers got their first taste of track action around the impressive Circuito Internazionale di Napoli in Sarno, in southern Italy.

After a day spent tweaking and preparing their brand new karts and engines supplied by the organisation, all 360 assembled drivers from 60 countries were able to experience the fast, flowing Italian circuit for the first time during untimed practice in the morning. After a crucial break to make suitable adjustments and hone kart set-up, the drivers were unleashed onto the circuit for the first official timed practice in the afternoon on a hot, sunny day.

Early indications are that the competition for Pole Position on Wednesday will be closer than ever with as many as 67 drivers per class (out of 72) covered by one second or less.

Although it is very early days, there were some stand-out performances from a number of the UAE-based drivers with five of the 12-strong team finishing in the top 15 of their respective groups.

Rashid Al Dhaheri and Oscar McElroy were 12th and 15th respectively in the Micro Max category, showcasing the strength of competition that exists in this class within UAE Rotax Max Challenge.

Ziggy Kermanshahchi performed similarly well, clocking the 12th fastest time of the day in Mini Max while Edward Jones showed no signs of rustiness with the 15th fastest time in his DD2 group. The Indy Lights Champion 2016 is stepping back into competitive karting after an extended hiatus due to his massively successful race car career, which bodes well for the rest of the week.

12th fastest The team’s Omani driver Abdullah Al Rawahi fared even better as he finished 12th fastest in the same group, just 0.03 seconds ahead of Jones, and looked very assured as he identified areas for further improvement.

Fellow DD2 driver, Taymour Kermanshahchi, was a fraction of a second off the pace of his teammates but, with a full day and a half of practice still to go before official Qualifying, he is confident of significant progress.

DD2 Masters drivers Hussain

Umid Ali (24th) and Anthony Hogg (30th) were separated by just 0.08s and will take confidence from the fact that they were with one second of the overall fastest lap.

The Max category was closest of all the groups with an incredible 67 drivers within one second of each other. Pasqual Pook was 24th despite setting a lap time within 0.5s of the overall fastest time of the day while Giulio Peroni was 0.5s further back from Pook in 35th.

In the Junior Max class Tehmur Chohan enjoyed a solid first day with the 17th quickest time in his group while Lucas Petersson was 29th on the timesheets despite being only 0.3s slower than Chohan – such are the fine performance margins at this elite level.

Stable platform With all lap times for all categories now on public display, all participants are aware of the improvements which need to be made ahead of two more timed practice sessions. For the most part, Team UAE drivers will sleep soundly in the knowledge that another full day of practice will provide ample opportunity to make performance enhancements and give them a stable platform going into Qualifying on Day 4.

Team manager Guy Sheffield summed up the day: “A solid day overall and great to see some of our drivers at the sharp end of proceedings at this early stage of the week. We won’t get carried away – each of the drivers have a development plan according to their own individual circumstances and we have plenty of things to test before Qualifying starts.”

Drivers representing Team UAE and Oman are: Micro Max: Oscar McElroy (Top ranked UAE-based Micro Max competitor), Rashid Al Dhaheri (Leading Micro Max Emirati National).

Mini Max: Ziggy Kermanshahchi (Top ranked UAE-based Mini Max competitor).

Junior Max: Tehmur Chohan (UAE Junior Max Runner-Up); Lucas Petersson (Top ranked UAE-based Junior Max competitor).

Max: Pasqual Pook (UAE Max Champion); Giulio Peroni (UAE Max Runner-Up).

DD2: Abdullah Al Rawahi (Oman DD2 Champion); Taymour Kermanshahchi (Former UAE Junior Max Champion); Edward Jones (Indy Lights Champion 2016).

DD2 Master: Hussain Umid Ali (UAE DD2 Master Champion); DD2 Master - Anthony Hogg (UAE DD2 Master Runner-Up).

BARCELONA: Pep Guardiola’s formidable managerial skills will be put to the test again when his stuttering Manchester City side visit his former club Barcelona in a top-of-the-bill Champions League clash on Wednesday.

Former Barca captain Guardiola, the Catalan club’s most decorated coach with 14 trophies in a scintillating four-year spell, is set for his latest emotional return to the Nou Camp.

He has been there as a visiting coach before when his Bayern Munich side lost 3-0 in a Champions League semi-final last year and now he faces an equally daunting task with City.

Guardiola’s brilliant start in England which saw him oversee 10 consecutive wins in all competitions has given way to a run of three games without victory, the latest seeing City miss two penalties in a 1-1 draw at home to Everton on Saturday.

The Premier League leaders trail Group C pacesetters Barca by

BIG TEST: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola with players during a training session. – Reuters

two points following a thrilling 3-3 draw at Celtic in their last Champions League outing but Guardiola said he would not settle for another draw against his former club.

“We have four games left and we need to win two of them, make six points, to be in the next round. And

we are going to try to win the first points in our next game for sure,” Guardiola said on Saturday.

The Catalans are unbeaten at the Nou Camp in the Champions League since 2013 but attacking idealogue Guardiola said his team would not stray from their usual

style of play. “We are going to play like we are. I know the way we want to play but, of course, we have to know exactly against which team we’re going to play. Not too many teams win there in recent years,” he added.

Barcelona are fourth in La Liga and cruised to a 4-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, with substitute Lionel Messi scoring on his return from a groin injury that had kept him out for over three weeks.

“He will be difficult to stop, I know that from experience,” said City striker Sergio Aguero, Messi’s international teammate with Argentina.

“All we can hope is that he has a bad day and our defence plays the game of its life. It’s that difficult because Leo is the best in the world.”

Barca coach Luis Enrique has also been boosted by the return of fullbacks Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba to training, while Guardiola’s only major absence is Bacary Sagna. - Reuters

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England hope to solve the opening puzzle for Bangladesh Test series Cook’s latest opening partner is the most pressing matter to resolve with 19-yearold Haseeb Hameed and Ben Duckett, 22, in contention to get the job in place of Alex Hales, who opted to miss the tour due to security concerns

DHAKA: England will use the two-Test series in Bangladesh to solve selection issues and prepare for the potentially tougher series they face over the coming months.

Alastair Cook’s side next travel to India, the world’s top-ranked team, before hosting South Africa and West Indies in 2017 ahead of

OPENING OPTION: Ben Duckett is a more attacking player, a fierce cutter and puller of the ball, and many believe he would provide a more suitable foil for the obdurate and disciplined England captain Alastair Cook. – File photo

their ultimate challenge in a tour of Australia. Cook’s latest opening partner is the most pressing matter to resolve with 19-year-old Haseeb Hameed and Ben Duckett, 22, in contention to get the job in place

CRICKET

a sound defensive technique.

“There’s a really nice calm aura about him when he’s practising, and certainly in the middle, when I’ve played against him twice this year,” England fast bowler Stuart

Broad said. “He knows his gameplan for such a young guy and has been hugely impressive in the conditions so far.”

Duckett is a more attacking player, a fierce cutter and puller

APPLAUSE FROM COACH

Waugh, Gillespie open to role of chief selector SYDNEY: Former Australia cricket captain Steve Waugh and paceman Jason Gillespie have both expressed an interest in succeeding Rodney Marsh as the country’s chairman of selectors.

Cricket Australia said last week 68-year-old former Test wicketkeeper Marsh would not be seeking to stay on in the role when his contract expires next year and that Australia would have a new chairman of selectors before the next Ashes series.

Australia will host the next Ashes series in 2017-18.

Former paceman Gillespie is currently coaching Adelaide Strikers in Australia’s Twenty20 Big Bash League after spending five years coaching English county side Yorkshire.

“There is a national selector’s job up next year and I might put my name up for that,” he told News Ltd. “All I have done the last five years is select teams for Yorkshire. I wouldn’t rule anything out. If there are opportunities I will look at it.”

Former Test captain Waugh, who announced his retirement in 2004, said he would be willing to discuss the job if an offer came

of Alex Hales, who opted to miss the tour due to security concerns.

Hameed is favourite having enjoyed a prolific county season with Lancashire in which he batted with great maturity and displayed

of the ball, and many believe he would provide a more suitable foil for the obdurate and disciplined Cook, particularly against the inexperienced Bangladesh seam bowlers.

England could opt to play Duckett in the middle order in place of Gary Ballance, who has not cemented his place after being recalled to the side this year.

“Duckett scores in slightly different areas, he’s quite awkward to bowl to and he sticks to his gameplan,” Broad said.

Bangladesh, who are playing their first Test in nearly 15 months, have improved significantly in limited-overs cricket, especially at home where they did not lose a bilateral ODI series in two years until England snapped that streak last week.

They have traditionally struggled to sustain the intensity over five days, however, and the lack of experience in their pace attack also compromises their ability to take 20 wickets in a Test.

The hosts have packed four specialist spinners into their squad and skipper Mushfiqur Rahim will be counting on allrounder Shakib Al Hasan to help the side prove they belong at Test level.

The first of the two Tests starts on Thursday in Chittagong. - Reuters

Steve Waugh

his way. “I’d listen to it if the opportunity came up, but there are a lot of things you’ve got to throw into the mix and see whether it’s the right time,” Waugh told the Sydney Morning Herald.

“I think there are a lot of good cricket brains in Australia. No one has asked me, but I’d listen to it.”

Under Marsh’s chairmanship of the panel, Australia lost the 2015 Ashes series in England but won the 50-overs World Cup on home soil in the same year and held the number one ranking in Test cricket for six months earlier this year. - Reuters

Umesh’s fielding is a benchmark for speedsters, says fielding coach Sridhar NEW DELHI: Umesh Yadav took a blinder of a catch to dismiss Corey Anderson in the first ODI against New Zealand and fielding coach R Sridhar feels that the Vidarbha fast bowler has “created new benchmark” for the speedsters.

“It’s good to have fast bowlers in the side who are good athletes.

Umesh has a very good arm and similarly (Mohammed) Shami is also a good athlete. In the past we had Mohit (Sharma) who was a very good fielder. Umesh is an exception not only because of yards he put in the field but also because of his catching. That’s probably given him the edge and created new benchmark as far as fast bowler fielders are concerned,” Sridhar said during media interaction today.

Asked about who has the most powerful arm from the deep in this current set-up, Sridhar named Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja.

“Jaddu and Virat are the names that come to mind. They have powerful rocket arms and can throw from anywhere with accuracy. In terms of strength and fitness, all fast bowlers like Umesh have powerful arms. In January during Australia series, Umesh effected a run out from 80 metres. As far as one action pick up throw is concerned, it is performed at particular fielding position,” Sridhar said.

GREAT IMPROVEMENT: Indian speedster Umesh Yadav has become an exception not only because of yeards he puts on field but also because of his sharp catching skills. – File photo

Sridhar said as per the wish of limited-over skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, coach Anil Kumble and Test captain Virat, the team needs more multi specialist fielders than single dimension ones.

“People like Ajinkya (Rahane) and Virat are more than utility

fielders. In ODIs, one needs to suffocate run flow and make batsmen work hard for runs. That’s what people like Manish, Virat, Ajinkya do, even Axar (Patel) when Jadeja is not there,” he stated.

“Once we get into death overs these are the guys who get into the

deep as they have safe pair of hands and throw well from the deep. This is what we try and do. Try to develop multi specialist fielders than specialist fielders. That’s what Virat, MS and Anil want. Team benefits in different phases of the game,” he concluded. - PTI

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2016

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SPORTS FOOTBALL

Ex-Thai FA head Worawi banned from football for five years ZURICH: The former chief of Thailand’s football association (FAT), Worawi Makudi, was banned for five years by FIFA’s ethics watchdog on Tuesday on charges of forgery and falsification.

“Due to the fact that Mr Makudi made alterations to the FAT statutes without the approval of the FAT Congress, the adjudicatory chamber of the ethics committee found Mr Makudi guilty of forgery and falsification,” the world soccer body said in a statement.

FIFA’s ethics committee opened an investigation into Worawi Makudi in July 2015 following information that he had been convicted of forgery by the Southern Bangkok Criminal Court.

Effective immediately, Worawi was banned from all national and international football-related activities and fined 10,000 Swiss francs ($10,094).

Previous suspension The controversial Worawi had previously been suspended by the world governing body’s ethics watchdog in October 2015 after being given a suspended 16-month sentence by the Thai court in July.

Worawi was succeeded as head of the FAT in February this year by former police chief Somyot Poompanmuang and was banned again soon after for failing to respect the earlier suspension.

The 64-year-old, who was on the FIFA executive committee that voted to award the 2018 World Cup to Russia and the 2022 tournament to Qatar, had been an Asian Football Confederation representative on the committee for 18 years until he was voted off last year. - Reuters

IOC concerned about costs of Tokyo 2020

Hamilton told to face media ahead of US Grand Prix

The comments came at a meeting between Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and IOC President Thomas Bach, who proposed forming a working group to find ways to avoid wasteful spending

TOKYO: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Tuesday that it felt costs for the 2020 Tokyo Games looked “very high” and would work with organisers to cut them, but that athletes must come first when considering how to rein in spending.

The comments came at a meeting between Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and IOC President Thomas Bach, who proposed forming a working group comprising Tokyo, the central government, 2020 organisers and the IOC to find ways to avoid wasteful spending.

Koike, who took office in August, ordered a review of Olympic expenses that last month recommended changing three venues in an effort to rein in costs projected to hit 3 trillion yen ($29 billion) — some four times the initial estimates made when Tokyo won the right to host the Games.

“That’s certainly a figure that seems very large to us,” IOC VicePresident John Coates told reporters after the meeting, adding that he was confident those figures could be reduced.

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CUT THE COSTS: IOC President Thomas Bach, right, meets Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike at Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Tokyo on Tuesday. – Reuters

One of the proposed venue changes would mean moving rowing and canoe/kayak sprint events some 400 km (250 miles) north of Tokyo to use existing facilities rather than building new ones in the capital.

The IOC, the 2020 Organising Committee and international rowing federation favour the original plan to keep the venue in Tokyo, while Koike last week told Reuters this was the last chance to take steps to rein in soaring costs.

Bach did not comment directly on the proposed venue changes but emphasised that the experience of the athletes should be the priority in planning for the Games.

“The athletes are the heart and

soul of the Olympic Games and we have to respect them,” Bach said.

If they fail to reach an agreement on the Tokyo site, known as the Sea Forest Waterway, the IOC would even consider hosting the events in the South Korean city of Chungju, where rowing events were held for the 2014 Asian Games, Japanese media reports said earlier on Tuesday.

Reforms known as “Agenda 2020”, carried out under Bach with the aim of making the Olympics more sustainable, allow hosts to use facilities in other cities or even countries if it makes financial and practical sense.

Koike said she was still reviewing the proposed venue changes

ISM BOYS, GIRLS EMERGE CBSE OMAN BASKETBALL CHAMPIONS The Indian School Muscat (ISM) boys and girls teams emerged champions at the CBSE Oman Cluster Basketball Tournament organised at Indian School Sohar recently. In the boys final, the ISM boys defeated hosts Indian School Sohar, while in the girls summit clash, the ISM got the better of Indian School Al Ghubrah. By winning the championships, both the teams have qualified for the CBSE National Basketball Championships to be organised in Chattisgarh from January 4 to 9 in 2017.

The teams and their coaches pose for group photos along with Principal Srinivas K. Naidu. — Supplied photos

and would make a decision by the end of the month, after which she suggested holding the first meeting of the four-party working group.

Tokyo’s original bid pledged to keep most venues within 8 km of the athlete’s village in downtown Tokyo, but several have already been moved. Cycling will take place in Shizuoka prefecture, about 200 km (125 miles) west of Tokyo. Tokyo organisers have been grappling with a series of setbacks.

They were forced to scrap an initial design for the centrepiece National Stadium, site of the opening and closing ceremonies, because it was too expensive, and had to redesign the logo for the Games following accusations of plagiarism. - Reuters

TEXAS: Triple Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton has been called upon by his Mercedes team to appear at Thursday’s official press conference for this weekend’s U.S. Grand Prix, two weeks after refusing to take questions from the media in Japan.

Hamilton triggered a media spat at the Japanese Grand Prix when he was criticised for playing on his phone during a news conference, using the Snapchat app, taking pictures of fellow drivers and complaining of the boring format of the event.

He then walked out of a media briefing after hitting out at “disrespectful” criticism of his behaviour by journalists, telling several he was “not here to answer your questions”.

The 31-year-old was upset after journalists took to social media to criticise his use of Snapchat and has since blocked several Formula One journalists on Twitter.

However, Mercedes have included the reigning champion in the media schedule, released by the team, for Thursday’s FIA event in Austin, Texas.

He is also scheduled to take part in separate post-qualifying and post-race media briefings.

Hamilton, who finished third in Suzuka, is 33 points behind teammate Nico Rosberg in the world championship with four races remaining, meaning that even if he wins every one, Rosberg could still deny him a fourth title by finishing second in each race. - Reuters

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SPORTS Oman ready for WCL Division 4 competition, says coach Mendis While coach Duleep Mendis declared Oman’s readiness for WCL Division 4 competition, skipper Ajay Lalcheta hoped that the Sultanate’s squad open their campaign on a positive note

T.K. MOHANDOSS sportseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Buoyed by a win against full-strength United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the third and final practice game at the ICC Academy in Dubai on Monday, Oman national coach and Chief Development Officer Duleep Mendis signalled that his wards are ready for the forthcoming ICC World Cricket League (WCL) Division 4.

Oman will be opening their campaign in the WCL Division 4 against Jersey on October 29, a team against whom Oman had lost in the final of the WCL Division 5 in Jersey recently.

The tournament, which is being held in Los Angeles from October 29 to November 5, will also feature United States, Bermuda, Denmark and Italy.

“We wanted to test our readiness for the tournament and hence FOOTBALL

KFA chief to visit Oman MUSCAT: Chung Mong-Gyu, President of the South Korean Football Association (KFA) and Vice- President of Asian Football Confederation (AFC), will visit the Sultanate on Sunday.

During his visit, the South Korean football chief hold a meeting with the Oman Football Association (OFA) board members.

According to a statement issued by the OFA on Tuesday, the meeting will discuss ways to further develop the relations between two associations.

The meeting will also discuss mutually beneficial aspects like organising training courses, national teams camps and friendly matches. - ONA

FIT AND READY TO FIRE: Oman’s Munis Ansari bowls as his teammates and bowling coach Rumesh Ratnayake, second left, looks on during a net session at ICC Academy in Dubai. – ICC Academy

had arranged practice matches against the United Arab Emirates, who play in Division 2,” said Mendis soon after returning from Dubai on Tuesday.

“We are thankful to UAE for fielding full-strength team in all the practice games and having beaten them in the third and final match proved more of a confidencebooster ahead of the all-important trip to Los Angeles,” added Mendis.

The Sultanate squad are scheduled to leave for the U.S. in the early hours of October 22.

“Going early was an idea to counter the jet lag and also get use-

ful practice and acclimatisation before we play the first game,” said the coach.

“The boys are mentally and physically fit and we will be flying with the same 14 members (who toured the UAE) plus Twinkal Bhandari (who is not part of the team),” added Mendis.

“Until then the boys will only have light training in the gymnasium and brief sessions at the swimming pool.”

On batting worries (only Zeeshan Maqsood excelled with bat and ball) which was evident in the three practice games against the

UAE, Mendis conceded that there were areas where the team has to work more.

“There were indeed grey areas in our batting. Even in the match that we won, I would have been satisfied had some of the batsmen converted the 40s into big scores. I hope they will do well. There were also fielding lapses and this is where we lost the first game, which looked very much in our kitty,” said Mendis.

“Nevertheless the camp at ICC Academy has helped us a lot and I am hopeful that the team will do well in Division 4.”

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan

BADMINTON

said nothing is going to be easy in Division 4. “All the teams in fray are strong and have been improving by leaps and bounds. We must work hard to realise our dreams to make Division 3,” said Mendis, assuring that the boys are ready to give in their best.

Confident captain Meanwhile, skipper Ajay Lalcheta said there were lots of positives from the UAE tour and the boys are raring to go.

“The training and practice matches at the ICC Academy were fruitful and the win against UAE

on Monday has boosted our morale. Now we have gained in confidence and are mentally prepared for the tournament in Los Angeles,” said Lalcheta.

“I am confident that we can perform well and we know most of the teams in fray and we have also played them (the likes of Bermuda, Denmark, Italy and U.S.) before,” he said.

On the first game against Jersey, Lalcheta said: “In Division 5, we have played them twice and have beaten them once. We have understood their game well and also studied our mistakes from the defeat against them in the Division 4 final.”

Knowing well that a winning start would give them momentum, Lalcheta hoped that Oman opens campaign on a positive note.

“Opening matches are always crucial, and we want to make a winning start,” signed off the captain.

Oman squad: Ajay Lalcheta (c), Aamir Ali, Khawar Ali, Munis Ansari, Swapnil Khadye, Mehran Khan, Zeeshan Maqsood, Sufyan Mehmood, Mohammad Nadeem, Arun Poulose, Rajesh Ranpura, Zeeshan Siddiqui, Jatinder Singh and Vaibhav Wategaonkar. Standbye: Twinkal Bhandari. Coach: Duleep Mendis. Assistant coach: Mazhar Saleem Khan. Bowling coach: Rumesh Ratnayake. Fielding coach: Ruwan Kalpage.

Fixtures: October 29: Bermuda v United States; Denmark v Italy; Jersey v Oman; October 30: Bermuda v Oman; Denmark v Jersey; Italy v United States; November 1: Bermuda v Denmark; Italy v Jersey; Oman v United States; November 2: Bermuda v Jersey; Denmark v United States; Italy v Oman; November 4: Bermuda v Italy; Denmark v Oman; Jersey v United States; November 5: 5th v 6th Playoff; 3rd v 4th Playoff; Final.

ITF PRO CICUIT

Jay Deshpande advances in ISC badminton tournament

Fatma loses in doubles at Lagos Governor’s Cup

MUSCAT: Top seed Jay Deshpande played his usual aggressive game to defeat Mohammed Iman in an Under-18 match at the Dalma Energy–ISC Annual Badminton Tournament organised by the Indian Social Club (ISC).

Jay used his attacking smashes and drop shots to get the better of Iman in a 21-8, 21-10 victory.

In boys under-15 competition, Adhindra faced tough resistance before overcoming budding talent Mebel Manoj.

After trailing 5-10, Adhindra rallied to close in at 10-11 before Mebel played with tact and grabbed next five points and took the first set.

MUSCAT: Omani star Fatma Al Nabhani and her Ukrainian partner Valeriya Strakhova failed to clear the first hurdle in the doubles competition of the $25,000 ITF Pro Circuit Governor’s Cup in Lagos, Nigeria on Tuesday.

In their first round match, Fatma and Valeriya despite losing the first set fought bravely against Indian duo of Kyra Shroff and Dhruthi Venugopal. Though they managed to win the second set, the Indian pair proved too good in the match tie-break and went on to win the match with final scoreline of 6-3, 3-6 (10-7).

Fatma’s challenge in the singles, however, continues on

Seven-year-old Mebel was then found wanting as Adhindra unleashed brilliant placements to wrap up the next two sets and qualified for the next round with a 10-15, 15-13, 15-13 win.

In boys under-13 competition, Abbas, Jebin T Babu, Joshua Reji and MPR Aditya reached the sec-

ond round while in the girls under-13 contest, Shreya and Niharika advanced to the second round.

In men’s A singles, Manoj MV eased to a 21-6, 21-0 victory over Kaushik V. In another match, Abu Mathew overcame Mohammed Azharuddin for a 21-11, 21-15 win.

Wednesday when the Omani girl takes on French eighth seed Harmony Tan in her second round match. In the singles first round match played on Monday, Fatma defeated India’s Prathana Thombare 6-4, 6-3.

INDIAN SCHOOL AL SEEB U-14 AND U-19 BOYS WIN TOP HONOURS AT CBSE OMAN CLUSTER HANDBALL TOURNEY The Indian School Al Seeb (ISAS) under-14 and under-19 boys teams won the top honours at the CBSE Oman Cluster Handball Championships for boys hosted by ISAS at their school grounds here recently. In the Under-14 boys final, the hosts defeated Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir (ISWK) by a 23-1 margin while in the summit clash of the Under-19 boys ISAS scored a 17-0 victory over ISWK. School Principal Nagesh Kelkar and members of the School Management Committee graced the prize-giving ceremony. Both the ISAS champion teams will now take part in the CBSE National Handball Championships to be organised in Varanasi in December this year. — Supplied photos

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Contact: 91155779 hrm_gh@live.com

Furnished rooms for rent for family 200 RO per month include water & electricity, Al Khuwair.

Contact: 99251975 Villa for rent in South Mabellah, 3 bedrooms, sitting room, family Lounge, kitchen, three Toilets Contact 92212212 between 10 AM to 5 PM Brand new show room deluxe 3 BHK, 2 BHK apartments with basement parking at Azaiba near Al Sahwa tower. Contact: 98294753 4bed/ l large drawing room, 2 toilets / kitchen / balcony Hilat Sad (Opp. Al Nahda Hospital) near Abu Zaki bldg (bldg. Al Batna). Rent R.O 290/-. Contact: 99489548 2BHK flat for rent at Wattaya near National Bank of Oman (2 bed rooms, sitting room, kitchen & 2 bathrooms).

Contact: 97016442

2BHK in Ansab 275/-OMR. Contact 91377970 Shop for rent SOUQ road Muttrah, near Oman house.

Contact: 99183525 / 24706045 2 BHK flat for rent at Azaiba in front of Al Sahwa towers.

Contact: 97016442 House for rent in Al Amerat near sultan center. 3 bedrooms, 3 toilets, sitting room and kitchen. area of the building is 170 sq. rent is ro.250/- pm. call 99469203 Flat (villa type) , in Al Azaiba North, first floor sitting room, family hall, kitchen, 2 bathrooms.

Penthouse 3 bedrooms with attached bathrooms. Well designed with quality finishing R.O 500/-.

Contact Real Estate Services Co: 91246444 / 92905432 / 24222345

. 176 m2 showroom area . Offices / shops . Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom apartment . Government water.

2BHK in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

1& 2 bed flats rent 250+ 350/- available in Wadi Al Kabir (near Lulu) with split A/C, all maintenance, 24 hours watchman facilities, with security systems.

Contact: 99451168

2 BHK M.B.D R.O 280/-.

Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

Room in Wadi Kabeer.

Contact: 99058744

1,2 BHK Darsait. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Kuwaiti Mosque in Wadi Kabir.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232

Contact - 97792004 / 93220482 Villa for rent at Qurum with Majlis, dining room, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, car parking, land scaping area. Contact : 97016442 2 Bed room flat overlooking Riyam Garden, Corniche.

Contact: 24714625 / 91173997 3 Bedrooms flat in Qurum, sitting & dining 2.5 bathrooms, kitchen at R.O 450/- monthly. Dimensions are good. Location is near by the road that goes towards Oman oil and Burger king. Contact Real Estate Services Co: 912464444 / 92905432 / 24222345 1000,00 m2 Industrial plot with compound wall & two room at Misfa I/A. Contact: 99342733 / 91118706

2 Bed room centrally air conditioned flat in CBD near central bank. Contact: 24714625/ 91173997 / 93527328 Flats and shop for rent in Ruwi, Honda road and Mumtaz area.

Contact: 97293708 / 92433127 / 97103695 2 Bedroom flat near Indian school Wadi Kabeer with A.C. Contact: 99322363 / 95453813

Flat for rent 2BHK split A/c near Oman house in Muttrah.

Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 Deluxe, 2 BHK flat for rent in Wattaya. Contact: 98802343

Villa in South Mawaleh: 8 bedrooms, 2 Majilis, 1 Family Hall, 9 toilets, 2 kitchens with Split AC, ample car park Contact: 96775026 / 99463626

Shop / office (rent 230/ 240/250)/ comm / Resi building (near Lulu) Wadi Al Kabir Friday market road.

Contact: 99451168 3 BHK ground floor house for rent in Al Hail South.

Contact: 95047657 1 BHK near Medical Darsait Muttrah house R.O 180/-.

Contact: 95070201 3 bedrooms villa in Qurum near Ramee hotel & close to crown Plaza Hotel and beach. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 Brand new 14 flats in Al Wadi Al Kabir, 11 flats of 1 bedroom RO 250, 3 flats of 2 bedrooms RO 300. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345

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DAILY GUIDE

Company for SALE at Wadi Al Kabir Manufacturing of Steel & Stainless Steel, & cast Aluminium products. Running company for sale. with all the machines and equipments also with 15 nos. of skilled workers.

Serious buyers can contact at 93132208 / 79065540

FOR RENT

REQUIRED ELECTRIC CONTRACTORS

Villa for Rent behind mazoon mousqe 7 bedroom, living room, dining room . Contact 95150809 for 750 R.O nogotiable

6 Bedroom villas available for rent at North Al Hail, near Wave, complex with swimming pool and Gym. Contact: 99833747

Studio Darsait R.O 160/- R.O. Contact: 92144045 / 97799175

Villa for rent in Al Khoud , 6 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933

FOR SALE

2 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair, 1 bedroom flat – luxury fully furnished at Al Khuwair for short or long term contract. Contact Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC. Contact 99436312 / 92888376 / 94617563, tel : 24834888 / 24833848

Office space for rent (240sq. mtr, with partition) for rent in Bank in Melli Iran Building, MBD area, near Center point. Contact: 99011352

Juices, Ice cream parlour in Ruwi.

Ideal location. Contact: 92150455

2 BHK with split / AC in Azaiba, 18th November Street.

Contact: 96708000 Flats for rent in Ghala, before palm tree R/A and next to Al Maha F/S Ghala, 2 bedrooms ++ RO 350 monthly, 1 bedroom ++ at RO 300 monthly. Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345 2 BHK with split / AC in Bareeq Al Shatti. Contact: 96708000 2 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686 5 warehouse on Misfah, Bausher opposite to Oman cement factory, 2 ware house 845 sqm each, 3 ware house 425 sqm each.

Contact: 96041560 / 99322321 Mr. Prasanna Furnished apartment for rent in Bowsher, 1 bedroom & living room.

Contact: 91153933 3 bedroom ground floor house for rent in South Al Hail behind Al Hail Hypermarket. Contact: 95047657

Flat for rent in Al Ghubrah, 2 rooms & hall. Contact: 91153933 Room in Azaiba.

Contact: 99555843 One room with bathroom in Bowsher for rent. Contact: 91153933 For rent villa in Bowsher 5 rooms & hall. Contact : 91153933 Arabian style house located in North Al Hail in the second line behind the commercial buildings of the SQ main street 1003 m2 land size and there’s permitted well & palm trees suitable to use for storage facility & accommodation for company workers, 2 streets across the house from front and back side.

Contact: 93366421 Flats for rent in Darsait, 3 bedrooms++ RO 350 monthly.

Contact Real Estate Services Co. : 91246444 / 91248444 / 92905432 / 24222345

FOR SALE Twin Villa for sale in Azaiba near Sultan Centre. Each side has three floors, five bedroom plus maid room. Each room has it’s own bathroom and one extra toilet between dining and sitting room. The villas are now about 5 years old and very clean and well maintained. It has split A/C’s. OMR 215,000 each villa.

Telephone: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Industrial land in Rusail.4000 sqm.

Contact 99323957 / 95490842.

Shop for sale Honda road, Ruwi.

Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM : 92877958 / 94289164 Cat 6 UTP cable (KUWES) 305M Roll AT R.O 33/- only & Network Cabinet 42 U 600x600 (Toten) at RO 160/- Only & 12 Core SM Outdoor armored (AKSH) at 450 baisa per meter only. Contact: Al Wassen Network Technology LLC. Contact: Tel: 24705105 GSM: 92877958 / 94289164 Email: alwassen@omantel.net.om

2 BR apartments available for rent, close to Muscat Grand Mall, next to Diwan’s Office, South Ghubra.

Contact: 2456256 / 99833747

Good Condition Sanyo washing machine, semi automatic, RO 25 for sale in MBD Contact; 99737812

1 BHK near Oman house behind Khimji H.O. Contact: 95865686

RESTAURANT for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 99378964

Muscat Hills 4 Bedroom CORNER Apartment+ 4 Bathrooms+ 2 parking lots with classy flooring & spot lights with high quality finish in luxury development under construction for Sale for RO 180000.

Not negotiable. Expected completion in June 2017. Visa available. Contact 95865457, only serious buyers.

BUILDING MATERIAL SHOP FOR SALEWell-furnished running building material-electrical shop (4 shutter / 200sqm) in Al- Khoudh- 6, for immediate sale- shop with stock or stock only. Serious buyers may please Contact: 94320909 Land for sale in the village of Bimmah on the coastal road Qurayat/ Sur with a space of 604 square meters for an attractive price.

Contact 92905222 Heidelberg Sorm machine 52cm x 74cm. Contact: 99369880 / 92857355 Beauty parlour for sale in Ruwi.

Contact: 92430239

FOR HIRE Planning Estimation Engineer B.Tech Civil with 3 years experience driving license NOC. Contact: 98240765

BUYING Buying cars for cash.

Contact 90202090

Looking for Electrical Labour Contractors

for awarding ongoing building service job.

Contact 99878180 / 93892793

ACC. AVAILABLE Room near Hamriya roundabout for Executive bachelor. Contact: 93590332 / 97443614 Single room with separate, bathroom for non cooking bachelor (Rex Road). Contact: 98209132 Furnished room in ruwi and azaiba for rent for executive bachelors. Gsm 99058344 Furnished room with attached bath room in Ruwi.

Contact 93223278 Fully Delux furnished sharing flat for Indian Executive near Sheraton CBD. Contact 99219337 A big room available near Hamriya round about for Muslim couple / small family / Executive bachelor rent 125/- per month including W+E. Contact: 99495131 Furnished room for Indian bachelor near Al Falaj hotel Ruwi and lady in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 96202458.

AVAILABLE Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com PDO approved prime mover and flat bed trailer available for long lease or rental preferably with direct company. Contact: 99427951

MV SALE Mitsubishi Pajero 2007 & Mitsubishi L - 300 Bus / VAN -2007 & Mitsubishi 4 x 4 pick up -2009. All vehicles are available for inspection at our head office in MSQ & sale procedures are by submitting quotation only. Contact: 24400750 / 24400752 (During office hours) 2012 Model Mazda 6 car for sale 28,000 Kilometer expat driven Mulkya valid up to Aug 2017.

Contact: 99204808 Dihatsu Terrios Trend 4WD, 2012 Registration, dealer service registration up to August 2017.

Contact No: 92812144

D4

W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 9, 2 0 1 6 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT URGENT REQUIREMENT

Sales Representative - Male In Sama Real Estate Company 1. Graduate with minimum 2 years experience in Real Estate business.

2. Good communication skills with the clients 3. NOC and driving license are must.

Reputed mineral water company required the following HEAVY/LIGHT DUTY DRIVERS VAN SALESMAN with Omani driving license

SALES SUPERVISOR/SALES CO ORDINATOR with Omani driving license HELPERS Experience 3 to5 years

Contact - 90372638

SITUATION WANTED

Wanted Female Gynaecologist , Female GP and One Female Dental Assist and Female Lab Technician, Asst Pharmacist.

ACCOUNTS Indian male, B.Com, MBA in Finance, 4 yrs in Larsen & Tourbo, 26 yrs in Oman, English/ Arabic speaking with driving license. NOC available. Contact 95588565

(From India or Pilipino ). With or without MOH License and Data Flow for Al Saadi Specilised Medical Centre, Musanna.

Contact # 91262604, Email ID : chillapalli76@gmail.com

Indian male age 26, Accountant one year experience in accounts looking for suitable job. Contact Email: Anishkhan991867@gmail.

Com Mobile: +968 9565 9415

Send CV and current picture with ref no: 0709 Email: jobs@sgoman.net

Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ finance field. On visit visa. Immediately available.

Contact 92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com

Urgent RequirementSama Group LLC OPERATION MANAGER - Male (for a reputed chain clinics)

1. Minimum 3years managerial experience 2. Capability of business expansion, able to handle the clinics issues 3. Pet lover / no fear from pets 4. NOC and driving license are must.

Send CV and current picture with ref no:0809

Email: jobs@sgoman.net

ACCOUNTS Required Accountant with minimum 5 years experience in construction field of accounts and who can independently handle. Oman experience will be plus point with release letter. Apply with bio data to Email: tec_oman@hotmail.com .

Contact: 99339661 Required Senior Accountant with 3 to 4 years experience for a reputed industrial group. Preference will be given to candidates experience in manufacturing filed of accounts and who can independently handle up to finalization.

Apply with CV to Email: hilaltrd@omantel.net.om or fax 24128111 Accountant 2-3 years experience. Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh@ bearingcitysc.com.

Fax: 24509312

Pakistani male 23 years B.Com, 1 year experience of Accountant looking for a good job.

Contact : 79096696

REQUIRED AN AUDITOR With 6 years of experience.

The candidates should be a commerce graduate experienced in auditing.

Interested candidates may mail their CV’s to:

auditbureausll@yahoo.com

WANTED AUDIT PARTNER An Omani Audit firm is seeking Audit Partner to join the firm.

Interested Chartered Accountants are requested to send their C.V to

E-mail : auditbureau2016@gmail.com

CATERING Urgently required for a chain of restaurants” experienced drivers motor cycle for food delivery” with valid oman driving licence. attractive salary offered + commission on sales. mobile # 97677170, MAIL: md@royalgroupoman.com

DOMESTIC HELP House maid required urgently for a Keralite family in AZAIBA. Contact 9675 8982 A full time living house maid required for an Indian family in Ghubra. Contact: 97335255

EDUCATION A reputed Omani law firm requires advocates and legal consultants with good experience in law, 10 years at least and fluent English.

Send your resume on the Email: advocateoman2@gmail.com

ENG./TECHNICIAN Civil Engineer for Reputed firm in Oman for their Construction division for minimum 3 years of experience and valid driving license. Contact : 94148970 send resume to : raja.suguna1975@gmail.com Urgent requirement for building & roads construction company Civil Engineer 5 yrs exp Oman Fore man 5 yrs exp in Oman, Accountant 3 yrs exp., tally is advantage. Contact: 71100641 / 71100643

Wanted Sales man logistics experienced sales person with D/L in freight forwarding, clearing, shipping, etc. Contact: 94007259 Email: smylackal@albadrigroup.com Required well experienced dynamic candidate in Real Estate Evaluation Field beside Building Management Techniques. Contact 91246444, rescooman@gmail.com

Indian Salesman indoor, knowledge in English & Arabic.

Contact: 93326636

SKILLED LABOUR ENG./TECHNICIAN

MEDICAL

We need MEP Supervisor for supervising HVAC & plumber work with min of 4 yrs experience and good English comm. skills.

Contact: 99454922, Email: humaid@brighteraoman.com

Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 92989109, medicoport@gmail.com

DRIVER

Wanted Driver for heavy (sewage vehicle) and light vehicle with valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 97991654 / 97991652 Kindly send CV at Email: construction@remasalseeb.com / remaschandran2020@gmail.com

Required salesman, Tailor, Barber.

Contact: 96964767

Required sales and marketing executive for a 4-star hotel in muscat. candidate with excellent communication skills and having 3+ years experience need apply. driving license will be an advantage. email: hoteljobsmuscat@gmail.com

Urgently required a Gulf experienced Beautician (Lady) Contact: 99619409

Wanted Driver. Contact: 97165972

Urgent requirement Sales representatives in FEMCO LLC Eco friendly products. Graduate with minimum 2 years experience driving license is a must. Sent CV to: info@femcooman.com

IT Savvy digital Media Sales Executive for leading website & mobile app Development Company. Those with experience and own car preferred. Attractive terms.

Email latest CV with embedded photo to: jobs@interacoman.com

BEAUTY

Urgently required a Driver with Oman license. Contact: 95729711 / 99364735

SALES / MARKETING

Required Indian candidate more 10 yrs experiences with attested Degree: 1 Civil Engineer.

2QS Engineer. 3 Purchase officer.

Email: joboman2017@gmail.com Wanted for immediate appointment at Salalah, Oman : Procurement and Trading/Sales Engineer, Electrical Engineer (3) Civil Engineer. Apply soon to vmwilly@yahoo.co.in / hr_oman1@yahoo.com Required Electrical Engineer bachelor degree in Electrical Engineering. Should have 5- 10 years in Oman experience in primary substations. Interested candidates send resume to hr@aljood-oman.com

IT An IT company which develops websites and mobile apps, wanted a Business coordinator and Secretary with experience in media sales coordination and social media. Email CV to: hr@cityvago.com

GP, Pediatrician, Gynecologist, General Surgeon, Orthopaedician, Dentist, Pharmacist, urgently need to work in a polyclinic in Sur. candidates with MOH license preferred. Contact: 00968 - 24446456, 00968-91164581 (Sunday to Thursday 8.30 AM to 9 PM) Required licensed GP doctor, lab Technician, Pharmacist and Asst Pharmacist for a clinic in Salalah.

Contact: 93129219 & send CV to: clinicrecruitment2015@gmail.com Postgraduate Gynaecologist & GP with prometric dataflow required for Polyclinic Muscat. Attractive package. Kindly send your documents on dsm.reqruitment@gmail.com Gynecologist, G.P, Staff Nurse, Lab technician, receptionist (Philippine) . Contact: 94562008 Email: halamedicalgroup@gmail.com Wanted Nurse for a dental centre, Al Mawale South. Interested candidate may contact 99759279 or send mail: drasyanaseem@gmail. com

MISCELLANEOUS MEDICAL Wanted female & Male Nurse with or without license (good salary, food & accommodation with other benefits. Contact 97700963, medicoport@gmail.com Fusion Medicare Polyclinic, Muscat wants GP, staff Nurse holding MOH license & Receptionist (Omani) Contact 97698004 email: medicare@fusionlogicoman.com

Urgent required : Store labors.

Candidate should be Indian, English speakers. NOC is a must.

Email: mohammad.jwabreh @bearingcitysc.com, Fax: 24509312

SECRETARIAL / OFFICE Wanted Office clerk having two years experience.

Contact: 92891888

Required Experienced Auto Electrician and Automobile Mechanic for a reputed service station.

Contact : 91232638 hashim@ramainvestment.com

SIT. WANTED ACCOUNTS 12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. worked on Oracle / Orion / Tally/ Epromis, ERP s/w with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086 Sr. Accountant B.Com, M.B.A Indian seeks suitable placement NOC available. Mob No.93363435 Pakistani male, MBA finance, 10 years experience accounting, finance, business development, Administration & banking proficient in quick book & Microsoft suite, valid Oman driving license.

Contact: 94162125 Indian/MBA/male Chief Accountant 18Yrs Experience, MIS, C.Flow, Budgeting, ERP, Cost accounting &Liasing with auditors. NOC available.

Contact: 92254691/97826674 email: khader2305@gmail.com

Finance Manager 22 years experienced Chartered Accountant and cost & management accountant looking for a suitable change.

Contact: 99884291 / 99741875 / 24601935 Indian female MBA, 3 years experience seeking suitable job.

Contact: 99257214 Indian male 24 yrs, MBA Graduate dual specialization (finance and marketing) & B.Com financé and taxation on visit visa immediately available. Contact: 99359904 Email: skadhilmog@gmail.com

MBA Finance 20 yrs of MNC (MEP) experience thorough knowledge in preparation of financials, budgeting, fore casting, audit, trade finances, cash flows, guarantees, income tax, project cost controls & ERP implementation with NOC seek suitable placement.

Contact 96280551 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com Indian male 8 years Accounts experience in Oman total 16 years experience can handle accounts upto finalization, good knowledge in Tally ERP/ Promis and MS Office have Oman driving license and NOC. Contact: 96937943 / 99043561, Email: ksunil2000@gmail.com Indian female Accountant B.Com tally, 10 years exp in Oman.

Contact: 91443796 Accountant Sri Lankan National Inter CA 3 yrs exp in finance ready to join immediately.

Contact: 79049355 Email: ahamedfiham777@gmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, WITH Oman D/L & 9 yrs experience, 8 yrs Oman & 1 yr India in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, independently handling all accounting, finance, banking, L/C, import, export & finalization seeks placement, srjob12@gmail.com Accountant Indian female B.Com, tally 5 years experience 2 years in Oman. Contact: 99139188 Accountant Assistant B.Com Graduate with 2 yrs experience in Accounting. Contact: 94736742 Indian Accountant having M.Com with 7 years of experience up to finalization ready to joint immediate, Tally Peachtree, focus.

Contact: 91651695 Email: danishpa2005@gmail.com Situation wanted for Accountant having experience in the field of accounts up to finalization, having 11years experience in Oman and 14 years in India driving license and NOC available. Contact: 92981308 / 93861806 Email: sonykarickal2008@gmail.com Indian Senior Accountant, B com, Having 8 years of experience in Oman, up to finalization, Tally, SAP, Oman D/L, Release available, Seeks suitable placement.

Contact - 93484122 Indian female, 26 years,brought up in oman,M.COM(FINANCE) CA Foundation(CPT),CA INTER(DOING) presently on family visa seeking for immediate and suitable placement.

Contact -97174201/99663957 Email-anishasasi@gmail.com Accountant, 10 yrs experience, male tally, ERP, holding Oman driving license up to finalization accounts handling.

Contact 79002093 MBA Finance 20 yrs of MNC (MEP) experience thorough knowledge in preparation of financials, budgeting, fore casting, audit, trade finances, cash flows, guarantees, income tax, project (cost control) & ERP implementation with NOC seeks suitable placement. Contact 96280551 Email: ramu2587@hotmail.com

Qualified and experienced MBA post graduate with proven work exposure in Middle East & India, having more than 5.5 years of rich experience in accounts , project coordination and administration in (3.5 years UAE experience) oil and gas projects is currently looking for suitable job. Contact 93953613, Email-allen.mathew83@gmail.com Certified Public Accountant (Filipino, Male, 27-yrs-old) with four years experience, seeking suitable placement in accounting/audit, currently on visit. Contact; 94959606, email: czesar.42@gmail.com 12 Yrs Exp Accountant worked in Construction, Cont & Trad Cos. with Valid D/L – (NOC/Release available).

Contact 92194086 7 Years experience as Financial Analyst, MBA in finance. Responsibilities- research contributor, financial statement analysis, generating MIS & efficiency report, managing TAT, business & clients.

On visit visa in Muscat.

Contact 90191628 / 96175780 Accountant Indian female, 2 years experience up to finalization in tally, B.Com Graduate, having valid D/L. Contact: 95373751 Indian ( M) MBA (f) more than 6 years of experience in accounts, proficiency in various A/C Software SAP (F1/CO) seeking for suitable placement. Contact: 95920740, mail: abdulhameed1527@gmail.com Indian female 28 yrs B.Com 4 yrs experience in MNC’s currently in Muscat seeking suitable placement in Finance / Admin.

Contact :94743790 Indian, Kerala Male B.COM & B.PE, Currently on Visit Visa. Looking for a suitable job in Accounts, Store Keeper, Sales etc. Ready to join as early as possible.

Contact 96988923 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com Indian male 34 Yrs, Dual MBA Finance and marketing with IT skills, 7+ yrs of experience, Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94879615, Emailsajan_chacko1981@yahoo.com 8 yrs exp. in Admin & Accounts (3 yrs in Oman), MBA, exp. in Tally ERP 9, Indian (F) seeks placement.

Contact 97243806 Accountant B.com Indian male 12 yrs exp seeks suitable job.NOC available . Contact : 91212471 Email: rennyj6@gmail.com ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in finance.

Contact 99284193 Sudanese Accountant, Alexandria University Graduate bachelor of commerce Diploma of Marketing professional photographer worked in PR and social media for 2 years looking for a job in public relations media, social media or marketing.Contact: 96976240 Indian female 26 yrs, MBA finance 2 yrs exp with MNC. Email: rilooozmali@gmail.com.

Contact : 90551366.

Indian (M), 31 yrs, M Com 9 yrs experience in Oman, looking for Manager or Executive position in Fin & Accounts, NOC Available.

Contact 968 96166178/ +919768537435: mohammednajeem@yahoo.com Accountant 8 Years Experience with D/L and NOC. Contact 97712084 28/male/MBA - finance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com

ADMIN

Male doing ACCA finals 5 years experience finance audit one and half years experience in shopping mall accounting, good knowledge in tally ERP 9, MS Office seeking good position in accounts/audit. NOC available Indian. Contact 92123484

Filipino HRD especialist / material controller supervisor with 18 yrs experience looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: (+968) 98037142 / (+968) 92659817

Accountant available with NOC, 7 years experience in Oman.

Ready to join immediately.

Contact 98263394

Egyptian woman resident, considerable experience in the Administration and Secretarial Executive for company. Contact : 97221126

W E D N E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 9, 2 0 1 6

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED An experienced Chartered Accountant

Male -FMCG DISTRIBUTION PROFESSIONAL ,MBA MARKETING ,10 years Managerial experience in GCC /OMAN looking for Divisional Manager position. NOC /DL available.

with over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change.

Contact -92405181

96491030

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC.

ADMIN Omani, male, 26 yrs experience looking for job in reputed Companies as PR, having experience at airport / Emigration, Ministries/ Manpower with Oman D/L. Contact 95445779 HR senior professional with 10 yrs (7 yrs in Dubai& Qatar) comprehensive exp in leading HR function ( recruitment, training, performance mangt system, GCC Law, operations, benefits administration and strategy) available to join immediately.

Contact: 0097455375005(Qatar) Email: maliksha@gmail.com Young Indian male B.Sc, with NOC & valid Omani driving license & 15 years experience in GCC into HR & Admin, well versed with MS Office / Payroll seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 90622264 18 years experience in Oman with various industry in the field of administration, accounts sales with droving license looking for Senior level post only. Serious parties can Contact: 96331725 Email : sainmct@gmail.com Omani (M) Diploma in (Business Management) with 7 years experienced HR/ Admin / Purchase is looking for a suitable position in Oman. Contact: 99460164 Experienced HR – Executive 18 years experienced in IT & manufacturing industry presently working in well reputed manufacturing industry looking out for new opportunity. Contact: 91374217 Male 25 BBA, Admin officer 6 years experience in administration, accounts, Procurement, HR. Contact 95526871 29 years male Indian BBA Graduate with 6 years of experience HR/ Admin looking suitable placement visit visa, valid Oman license.

Contact: 91361336

British Citizen Senior Architect, Managing Director, Chief Architect 14 years experience, V Ray 3D, AutoCAD BOQ, master degree on architectural design. Contact: 92480035 Urban/Town Planner with 6 yrs of Experience in Oman, Saudia, and Sudan. Looking for a good opportunity. TEL: 98016799 Email: mod.omer@live.com Architect Engineer seeking for suitable job, 8 years experience.

GSM : 96075000, Email : haytham_201046@yahoo.com Interior Decoration Drafting 2D/ 3D ,freelance / parttime. PH: 9018 9070 Email: mkoman@gmail.com

DRIVER Wanted driver, 6 years exp NOC available. Contact: 98903498 Driver with Omani license, 4 years exp. Contact: 93143027 Bangladeshi male 25, seeking for driver job with Oman valid license L/V. Contact: 93468454 Light driver 7 yrs exp, expert in Arabic & English language.

Contact: 92262680 Bangladeshi, 5 years exp in distribution/loading with D/L speaks Arabic & Hindi. Contact: 95865971 Light driver exp 4 years know English, Arabic, Hindi.

Contact: 94928736 Driver with car available.

Contact: 98522914 Looking for job light driver 8 yrs in GCC country & speak Arabic good. Contact: 92806893 Looking for job light driver 2 yrs exp. Contact: 91659265 Driver with car. Contact: 95518612 Light driver looking for job, 5 years exp in Oman. Contact: 94208089

Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have vocational M.B.A diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time.

Contact: 95933288

Driver looking for job- Indian with car or without - contact 96953996 / 91432352 - Sohar preference.

Indian Female, MBA-HR having 8+ experience in Administration/ HR, Customer Support, Office Coordinator with good Computer skill, Now on Visit Visa, looking for suitable position. Contact 90196235

Heavy duty 4 years experience valid D/L, Oman. Contact: 98571413 / 95464051 Contact: Asheer Mohammed 94173085

ARCH./ INTERIOR DEC. Sudanese male Architect with 8 years of experience in design & and project management B.Sc, Master of Art in Architect and PMP holder. Contact: 93522498 / 93946515 Email: hesham.siddiq@gmail.com Architectural Draughts man (4 years experience), seeking job Contact: 91141879 Architecture Graduate in urban planning & architecture Indian male, 6 months experience in architecture & interior design NOC available. Contact: 96926903 Email: nikcherian93@gmail.com B. Arch Grad Indian female 24 yrs, highly skilled in designing looking for entry level architect positions currently Oman residence visa.

Contact : 95990255 Email: lubainank@gmail.com Architect Sudanese female 7 years experience design site work, interior design programs AutoCAD archicad.

Contact: 71190409 / 94078945

SITUATION WANTED Indian male, MBA Finance, B.Com & Computer Diploma looking for a suitable position Current position: Financial controller Experience : 15 years +

18 yrs exp driver seeks job.

Contact: 95541940 Driver job wanted.

Contact: 96393082 Female family driver.

Contact: 98044188 Looking for job light driver.

Contact: 97688323 L.T.V driver experience 3 years looking job. Contact: 94986972 Driver looking for job. Contact: 98143386 / 92820309 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 96187146 Looking for job exp having driving license. Contact: 97363138 Driver looking for job.

Contact: 95892363

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN Filipino Senior Revit/AutoCAD Draftsman with 20 years professional experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Please Contact: 96489798, (+974) 66653780.

IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WITH NOC HR & ADMINISTRATION PROFESSIONAL

with over 20 years in Oman.

Can manage ERP systems, Hardware, Network, Wi-Fi and Biometric Devices.

NOC available.

With 14 years of Oman experience in Omanization, well familiar with Oman labor laws, employee relations / welfare, Liasion & Coordination, Strategic HR Planning, performance Appraisal & General Administration.

CONTACT: 90189412

Contact # 96654216

Contact - 96501189

Hospitality professional Indian, currently working as General Manager in a leading Hotel in Muscat.

Quantity Surveyor, Sri

18+ years experience in Middle East & India. With release / NOC, seeking General Manager / Operations Managers jobs in Hospitality sector.

Lankan male, 25 yrs, B.Tech HND QS (Civil & MEP), AutoCAD with 5 yrs experience, looking for suitable placement.

BE (Electronics & Telecommunication), MBA (Marketing), Indian male, 30 yrs, 7 yrs experience in Oman in Sales, Marketing & Projects, looking for suitable placement, valid Oman D/L,

Contact - 968 99589495, Email : mct2016job@gmail.com

Contact 92032632, haseebmursaleen@gmail.com

NOC AVAILABLE Contact - 98518776

DESIGNER/ DRAUGHTSMAN Tunisian girl looking for job in media field, has 8years experience in publishing contact 97816917

ENGG. / TECH./MECH.

Indian male 26 years Mechanical Engineer with 2 yrs exp in Oman.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 91328079

B.E Mechanical Engineer, age 24 with almost 1 year experience as Production Shift Engineer, has achieved training on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP.Currently in Oman on a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact: 95065955 email: mjs.jazeb@gmail.com

Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine.

Available NOC release.

Contact 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com

B. Tech Mechanical HVAC site Engineer 4 years experience, currently on visit.

Contact – 92837696 / mdabdulather@gmail.com

Indian male Civil Engineer 1.6 yrs exp, having Omani D/L, looking for suitable position. NOC available. Contact – 92157694 / mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com

An Iraqi civil with more than 30 years experience in (Iraq and G.C.C) looking for a job, (N.O.C) available. Contact: 96561306 Email: iq.bgd.mnsr@gmail.com

Free lance / part time autocad works / make boq 2d /3d arch , structural, shop drawings interior drawings. Contact 97103168 mkgroupoman@gmail.com

Diploma in Mechanical Engg, 10 years exp in steel fabrication site work with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 94696192

Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact: 97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com

AUTOCAD freelance / part time , ARCH,MEP, 2D,3D, shop drawing, Bill of QTY PH : 97103168, mkgroupoman@gmail.com

Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrs exp seeks suitable position in a reputed company. NOC available.

Contact 96789711

AUTOCAD D MAN, 3 yr DCE, ITIi, experience in arch 2d,3d ph : 99506977 Skilled Indian Designer, 7 yrs experience in Oman designing & Execution of Work at site & workshop seeking senior placement.

Contact: 968 93285996 Email: kw251287@gmail.com Interior design Engineer looking for a job, 6 years experience.

Contact: 91291502 Revit, Autocad D/man, expected salary 200 OMR. PH : 92279784

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in consulting engineer with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 98484123 Civil Engineer 8 yrs Exp in building construction with auto cad & D/L. Contact : 93060770 MEP Coordinator, B. Tech. Mechanical, 36yrs Indian Male, 12yrs GCC experience, Oman D/L, NOC, immediate start, 97784946, sachkormat@live.com HVAC Engineer with 4 years Indian experience (Emerson), available on short visit. Contact: 95319135 Experienced Purchase Officer 8+ in construction & Engineering industries ready to join with NOC. Contact: 95423692 Female Civil Engineer with 2 years Oman experience seeking suitable position. Release available. Contact: 97906991 Email: bhavya.bharathan@hotmail.com

Looking for job. Contact 95371235 Indian Driver light need job.

Contact: 96693613

Experienced IT Professional

Indian male 28 years on visit seeking job Mechanical Engineer having 3 years experience.

Contact: 90198952 Civil Engineer Project Manager 14 years exp, 11 yrs in Oman PMP FDC Contract Management experience independently handling Civil works familiar with Oman regulating looking for senior level position, local release available.

Contact: 98826815 Pakistani male Civil 3 years diploma 8 years experience as Site Engineer, valid Omani D/L immediate joining. Contact: 93294965 Pakistani male 30, Diploma in Civil 12+ years exp 9 years in KSA looking job for Surveyor have visa with NOC driving license.

Contact: 97255028 Email: leo_khurais@yahoo.com Software Engineer looking for a job experience of 1 year related to software testing, documentation or development etc on visit, worked on Android, ASP .NET, C#, Java, Web development. Contact: 97236636 Email: hasanmir777@gmail.com Indian female- B.Tech with 3 Years of Experience as Software Engineer in an MNC looking for suitable placements. Please Contact through Mail- hnambissan@gmail.com or Mob ; 95196243 Diploma in Civil, 15 years experience in G.C.C searching suitable placement. Contact: 90247456

Indian male 23 years, 1 year experience in tankage projects & process piping B.Tech in Mech, Engg.

Contact: 00968 71164978 Email: sushant297@gamil.com

Work shop Incharge, well experience Automobile Engineer with Oman driving license responsible for work shop & transport, joint with local clearance 25 years experience. Contact: 93215759 Mechanical Engineer 27 yrs Indian male 4 yrs experience, certification ASNT, level 2, ASME 31.3 looking for suitable position. Contact: 98843671 Email: ifthikharahmedpo@hotmail.com Civil Engineer seeking job in Oman, 2 yrs experience in Pakistan with a consultant firm interested in consultant & contractor both. Contact: 968- 71152135 Email: omerraza102@gmail.com Indian male 8 years experience in electrical field with managerial, office, site supervision, fault debugging and exposure to electrical devices now in visiting visa. Contact: 90181566 Email: jittoandrewsnesto@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, Indian male 22 yrs, currently on visit Oman knowledge of AutoCAD, 2D & 3D looking for job in various mechanical fields.

Contact: 00968 92113987 Email: mohammedthanzeel@gmail.com B.E Civil Engineer Indian male 26 years with 8+ years Indian experience in building construction & consulting field with AutoCAD, NOC available, looking for suitable position. Contact: 94656970 Civil Engineer (BE), Indian male 25 yrs with 2+ yrs experienced, certified in AutoCAD, Staad Pro, Revit looking for suitable position NOC available. Contact: 94973235 Email: merlinraj1710@gmail.com Indian male, 23 Yrs, B-Tech - Electrical & Electronics, having 2 Year of Work experience - looking for suitable placement. Currently in Oman on Visit. Contact: 96739500 Engineering Graduate having 5+ years of exp as Marketing coordinator in advertisement company and 6 months as security system service engineer.

Contact 79059197

Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Electrical & Electronic Engineer MEP (Electrical Drafting and designing) Oman Driving license2 years experience - Mob 99759466 ; shyjalpk@gmail.com B.Sc Civil Engineer: 5 years experience with having D/L. Contact: 93850440, Email: shahadat033@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Palestinian) 7 years experience looking for suitable placement specially at Muscat for Site or Consultant office with valid Oman driving license. Contact: 99174964 Diploma in Instrumentation and control, instrument technician 2 years experience male, 25, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 96946408 Email: anfeeranfu4@gmail.com 16 years experience in maintenance field with reputed groups in Oman seeking suitable placement, NOC available. Contact: 98525859 Mechanical Engineer 14 years experience, 7 in Oman in water factories. Contact : 94488290 Diploma in Civil Engineer, 3 years Sudanese National, 4 years experience in construction sites in Oman. Contact: 91183608 Indian male 27 years civil Engg (Project Coordinator) 6 years experience in Oman looking for suitable position NOC release available. Contact: 95071223 Electronics Engineer (BE) with 6 years experience in projects & maintenance of CCTV, Access control, fire alarm & PA systems, on visit. Contact: 99097485 Civil Eng Civil Draughtsman with diploma more than 8 yrs exp in Oman having valid D/L, NOC available. Contact: 96785348 / 93129804 Email: abbasimran786@hotmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Sc) with 5 years experienced (4.5 years in Oman) in construction & project management and seeking suitable job (NOC available). Contact: 99604563

Indian male 22, BE Civil Engineer with few site and internship experiences looking for a suitable position in your firm. Got knowledge in (Primavera, Autocad, Staad pro).

Currently In visit visa. 98327644 or shakib842@gmail.com

Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Contact : 97964862, Email :jossyabraham20@gmail.com

Indian male, BE (CSE) graduate, completed CCNA R& S course, process associate with 9 months experience on visit visa available immediately. Contact: 91295939 Email: rahman_nadhu05@gmail.com

Indian male, B.E Mechanical with 2 years experience as Maintenance Engineer in Cochin Refinery and 1 year experience in Chevrolet seeking job. Ph number: 97964862, Email:jossyabraham20@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Indian male Electrical Engineer, having 6 years gulf experience in designing, assembling, commissioning execution etc having valid GCC license too looking for a suitable. Contact: 00968-98052942 Email: azamjeelani78@gmail.com Civil Engineer (B.Tech), Indian male 24 years with 1+years Indian experience,(Certified in Staad Pro/ Quantity Survey/ Auto Cad).Looking for a Suitable position. Available In Sultanate of Oman (Muscat) on Visit Visa. Contact: 92157694. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com Indian male 26 years currently on visit visa completed Aircraft Maintenance Engineering having 2.5 years of experience in the field of customer service and hospitality industry with a passion for the job, looking for opportunity.

Contact: 95775970 / 96784402 Email: sanoopck2255@gmail.com Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. Contact: 98921022 B.E Aeronautical Engineer, Indian male, having 4 years experience in the field of Aeronautical, Mechanical design and production field, seeking for a suitable job and permanent replacement, currently in Oman on visit visa.

Contact: 00968 79062208 Email: amithmohanachary@gmail.com Sudanese Telecom Engineer (OSP & FITH) Manager four years experience in Oman with PMP Certificate. Contact: 93391008 Indian female 24 years, B. Tech and Diploma in Electronics & communication having 5 months bank experience looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa.

Contact: 90892393 / 92101035 Email: athirasuresh3@gmail.com Indian male, Mechanical Engineer, diploma in MEP design, AutoCAD 2D, worked as Supervisor in Steel fabrication, worked as automobile sales officer, on visit visa, know driving, familiar with Oman routes.

Contact: 99077031 Email: advith.21@gmail.com B.E Mech Engineer, Indian male, having 2 yrs experience in Mechanical Engg seeks suitable position. Contact: 98827544 Email: sibi.a.b.varghese@gmail.com 3 years Diploma Civil Associate Civil Engineering profession - land surveyor, experience total experience 5 years, 2 years in Pakistan, 3 years in Oman.

Contact: 94791214 / 98489700 Mechanical/ Piping Engineer (B.Tech.) on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact 94703350 mail: nadeembcoolboy@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer, Indian, 5 Years Experience, On visit visa looking for suitable placement.

Contact - 93042025 Indian male ITI 16 yrs of experience, seeking for suitable electrical & BMS foreman. Security system. Release letter available.

Contact: 94067480 B.Tech (ECE), MCSE, CCNA, 25 Male, Indian, currently on visit visa, seeks suitable job.

Mob No: 94985002, Email: akhil.anuraj.1991@gmail.com Mechanical Engineer (B.Tech) on visit visa looking for suitable job, has certificate of rewit MEP. Contact: 97923238 Email: vvikhil4@gmail.com Civil Engineer (Indian male) 5 years experience in Oman with valid Omani driving license & NOC looking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 93101283 Mechanical Engineer with 4yrs exp in maintenance, design, contracting firms with GCC D / license # 95712436 & tejab17@gmail.com B.Tech Civil Engineer 9 years experience in Oman, hotels, shopping malls high rise buildings, local NOC available. Contact: 00968- 97355400 Email: mianwaqas169@gmail.com

D6

W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 9, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Mechanical Eng, 9 years experience MEP, 4 yrs in Oman.

Contact: 99487902 Graduate Civil Engineer 20 yrs GCC experience with Omani D/L, seeking job NOC available.

Contact: 98621645 Email: imtiazcv@gmail.com Site Supervisor, Diploma in Civil Engg (cert attested) knows autocad revit, salary exp: 250 Ph : 92279784 Mechanical Engineer, Indian, Male, 30yrs. Experienced in Steam turbines and Thermal Power house seek employment.

Contact - +91 8130553668 or mohamedshah7@gmail.com Civil Engineer, young Indian having almost 2 years experience looking for a challenging position seeks suitable position in Oman/ GCC. Please contact 92718490, Email ID: uvais.pk82@gmail.com Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization. Contact 96570891 Site Supervisor 3 years Diploma Civil Engineering 7 years experience in Oman driving license.

Contact: 00968- 98524276 Email: murtaza06249@gmail.com Building Engineer, Senior level 9 yrs experience, Projects management, Coordination, Quantities Surveying Engineer contracts, civil software’s & AutoCAD looking for senior level position, NOC available. Contact: 79097475 Email: a-shaqfa@hotmail.com Indian male 24 ,B.E ( E.C.E ) graduate with 3 years of experience in the fields of BMS and Low current systems and has good knowledge about Electronic Security Systems, currently working in Oman, NOC Available. Contact: 94737033/ mohdmuhafez45@gmail.com Construction Machinery repairs Engineer, 5 years, driving license, Contact - 94001961 Electrical Engineer, 24 yrs, Indian Male, Fresher, Training Undertaken in Electrical Draughtsman, Fire Alarm, Fire Fighting and Industrial Automation. Contact: 94989767, Email: Junaiz987@gmail.com Indian male, Structural Engineer looking for job in structural design field. Having 6 years of experience in design field. Residing in Muscat.

Contact - 91176187 Email: syam036@gmail.com Electrical & Electronics Engr, knows autocad & revit.

PH: 93837973

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact: 99739415 / 92091528 An Indian Engineer is available for execution of pragmatic, need of the hour, worldwide relevant rare engg./ technical courses.

Contact 9109 6940, kpopragmatic@gmail.com Mathematics Lecturer , Indian Female, M Sc Mathematics from a Prestigious University, B.Ed qualified, distinction holder with 6 yrs teaching experience in colleges.

Contact : 91360147.

Indian female 24. Masters in Computer science engineering, seeking job in colleges, schools and institutes. Having in good skill in teaching and advanced technologies. Contact : 93356858 Email id : annielino11@gmail.com

HOSPITALITY Indian male BA & LLB IATA cargo having 10 years experience as lawyer in Indian, currently on visit visa seeking placement.

Contact: 99068790 Email: meltoma@gmail.com Indian male 31yrs old with hotel management degree, 03 yrs experience in F&B services at 5 star hotel Dubai, 05 yrs in American 06 star cruiseliner has butler.

Has Oman driving license.

Contact 99859150.

IT

MISCELLANEOUS

IT Engineer Graduated from Bangalore reputed university 1.5 yrs of of experience in software skilled in Php html CSS Jquery on visit visa. Contact: 91213391

Indian male 40 years BSc degree, 16 yrs experience, 6 yrs in GCC in store keeping & material coordinating seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98966849

IT Engineer male, 28 yrs, over 7 yrs experience with NOC, D/L available seeking placement in IT / Network / Telecom field. Contact: 93563297 Email: monuzv24@gmail.com

Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job. Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com

Indian male, 27 years, bachelor in IT, having 5 years experience in PHP DEV., Networking, IT support, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98825722 Email: ajaybin.joy@gmail.com Indian male B.Tech Computer Science 4 years experience (3 years GCC) in SQL server, database Administration seeking job NOC available. Contact: 97331947 Email: nmathew1988@yahoo.com Indian girl, 22- Science Graduate in IT with an exp. of few months in the related field seeks a suitable job in Muscat. Studied CCNA & Web design courses.

Pursuing Masters in IT now.

GSM: 94909075. Mail id: madhue009@gmail.com

Indian Male, 25 years old, born and brought up in Oman B.COM(Finance),MBA(Marketing) with Valid Omani Driving License seeking suitable placement.

Contact 94170219/99621400 Email:mahimmatha2016@gmail.com 21, Indian female B.com graduate on family visa looking for immediate and suitable placement. Holds valid Omani Driver’s license.

Contact: 97208869 Indian male age 47, 15 years exp in store in charge in GCC, seeks suitable job. Contact: 90198237 9 year experienced industrial painter and sand blaster with Oman driving licence. NOC available.

Seeks suitable placement.

Contact ZakeerHussain 96681934.

Female, master in mass communication, B.Ed, experience in media channel and teaching PH : 99362024

BS in Electrical Engineering, Experience: 5 years(Power Plants).

Contact: 92475206 Email: zahaibzafar007@gmail.com

An IT Engineer with 1.5 years having skills in ASP. Net, C#, SQL on visit visa looking for suitable job in Oman. Contact: 968 90897242

Sudanese male bachelor geology and mining with 3 years experience in MUD logging and training in soil investigation. Contact 92956848

IT Support Engineer, exp 3 years in Oman 3 and above in India, D/L & NOC. Contact: 93695268 / 91169659 Indian Male, MCA Graduate, 15 yrs exp in ERP, CSM Certified, seeking suitable role.NOC Available. Contact : GSM : 90189284 Email: meetlibran@gmail.com Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement.

Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com Indian female M.Sc Computer Science seeking suitable placement in Muscat area.

Contact 98660672 IT Support Engineer, Exp 3 years in Oman 2 years in India.

Contact 94672759 Indian male 4 years experience in IT as Programmer / Web Support/ CCNA/ Network on visit visa seeking placement. Contact 93069694 Email: mrabrar14@gmail.com CFA level 1 cleared (pursuing level 2) MBA operations research, female, 5 yrs experience as Analyst, have a valid Oman driving license, looking for related openings.

Contact 95818892 Mobile & laptop Technician Indian male having 2 years experience in India, currently on visit visa looking for suitable placement in Oman.

Contact: 71018270 / 92365310 / Email: shibinscaria1@gmail.com

LOGISTICS Experienced Indian Male seeking placement in “Stores & Logistics”.

Contact: 91927039

MISCELLANEOUS Indian male, 28, post graduate, 6+ yrs exp in Oman in sales (back office) & credit control with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable lacements. NOC available.

Contact: 92066 523 Filipino Graphic Designer / I.T. looking for a suitable job with 10 years experience. Very good in Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Photography, Knowledge in CCTV & Access Controls.

Call 79042628.

Filipino Male, 28 years Old. Looking for job, Have experience in Rent a Car/ Cargo & Logistics / Real Estate/ Customer Care Executive / Sale Executive & Marketing/ Shop In- Charge. Hard working w/ good computer and communication skill.

GSM: 97761075 B.Com,IICL Certified Container Inspector(No.150850),Visit Visa, Six months experience, need placement. Phone 90880935,99023279, Email solexyesudas@gmail.com.

MANAGER / SUPERVISOR Indian male MBA 14 yrs experience in business development seeking managerial roles driving license, NOC available. Contact: 93956234 Indian male (44), MBA, 19 yrs experience in Oman. Present Industry: Natural stones for construction. Responsibilities: Production, Trading, Business development and overall management. Looking for an immediate opening. Contact : 90992631 Purchase Manager (BE + MBA) having 13 yrs experience is available immediately with NOC. Contact at +968 97886616 or emailguptaashish1978@gmail.com General Manager IRAQI who is able to motivate a sales force and focus it on success. Adept at administrative organization utilizing talent and resource and meeting or exceeding all sales goals Experience 13 Years Inside- outside Oman, following activities:(construction – real estate - fit out - pipe lain - Infrastructure) Contact: - Oman 71146111

MEDICAL Indian Female Nurse with MOH License, seeks suitable placement in Muscat, Contact: 95537685 Indian female Nurse 9 yrs experience / Gulf experience prometric 70% & dataflow completed looking for suitable job in Muscat.

Contact : 96739298 Indian male Nurse 3 years experienced prometric dataflow completed, currently on visit visa wanted suitable placement.

Contact: 95314727 Iraqi Dentist female, MOH license seeks suitable job in clinic in Muscat. Contact 97891219 Veterinary Doctor: Indian Female looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 96906534 /99014885, Email: monishmajeed@gmail.com Dr.Ayman Abduljalil Ali, E.N.T Specialist (Otolaryngologist), Yemeni-male, looking for job.

Mobile: 00201096542706, Email: aymanjalilorl@gmail.com Filipino male Medical / Sales representative with 3 yrs experience is looking for suitable job in Oman.

Contact: 92610394 Indian female Dentist looking for suitable placement, dataflow completed. Contact: 96410448 / 99606013

SALES / MARKETING Indian male, MBA with around 15 years of experience as Senior Sales & Marketing Manager in building materials with valid driving license release available.

Contact: 93510350

SALES / MARKETING Indian male 26, MBA in Marketing, 4 years experience in sales and marketing with valid GCC D/L Now in visiting visa looking for challenging opportunities.

Contact: 98666324 Email: ajithvjames@gmail.com Seeks suitable placement sales, marketing, and supervisor.

Contact: 98522914 15+ Experienced in Sales & Marketing, Modular Kitchen & Furniture with NOC & Valid License @ 96239126 Indian, 8 years experience in sales & marketing looking for suitable job.

NOC available. Contact: 99837447 Email: rhlboss86@gmail.com Indian male 27 yrs, Master of Tourism Management, 2 .5 yrs exp in India (Tour operation, Front Office, Ticketing, Reservation, Sales & Marketing) with computer skills looking suitable placement, now on visit visa. Contact: 98837395/ 95213711 Indian male 27 years 5 years G.C.C experience in sales & marketing with valid Oman license holder, NOC is available, looking for suitable position.

Contact: 94048369 Indian male 28 yrs B.Com 5 yrs exp Admin / sales seeking job, NOC available. Contact: 96191521 Indian male B.Tech Auto mobile with MBA in marketing& HR, 3 yrs experience in service field, looking suitable job in Oman NOC available. Contact: 79080760 Email: althafhussain262@gmail.com Male, MBA Marketing, 21 years experience in Sales and Marketing, looking for suitable job. (in Muscat on visit visa) Contact: 96234986 Email: tanvirtufail@gmail.com BBA Graduate male Indian having valid Oman driving license looking for a job in the field of sales and marketing available immediately. Contact: 24566124 / 92518257 Multinational FMGC experienced, qualified Sri Lankan lady seeking employment in Muscat. Marketing, Brands, Sales, Communication. Oman exp & DL available.

Contact: 98250829 Young man Graduated in Media and Communication and having a diploma in public relations looking for a suitable job in advertising agencies & media, corporate offices in Oman. Contact: 95636799 Email: medoo-299@hotmail.com Male, looking for sales & marketing job, Oman license holder.

Contact: 95642740, Email: shaijichakkara@gmail.com An experienced person in joinery / fit out looking for working partner job. NOC & local release is available. Contact: 90872012 Indian male 1 yr exp in sales automotive (TBL) looking for best opportunity , NOC available.

Contact: 97793879 Email: shyampkn@gmail.com Indian male 29 seeking for store keeping and inventory controller job with 6 years exp at East Africa.

Contact: 99695002 Email: arafathw880i@gmail.com Indian male with 6 years experience in sales in oman. NOC available, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95364128 Resident in Oman 18 years, 10 years experience in setup marketing plans and strategies, sales, import & logistics, procurement, Omani government tenders, organizing projects & events, import fireworks for festivals, NOC available, have car. Contact 94123939.

Email: 002015r@gmail.com Indian male 26 yrs, Graduate, 3 years experience with Air India seeking suitable opportunity with reputed firms. Contact: 98847095 Indian male Graduate with 18 years of Marketing experience presently in Oman on family visit visa, looking for best opportunity.

Contact: 96168687 Email: dhibupaul@gmail.com Oil & gas experienced Indian lady with 6 years in sales & marketing to PDO and having valid Omani driving license. Contact:96143430 / 99875919

Indian female 29 years Post Graduate with computer Knowledge 2 years of Oman experience in coordinator & 5 years of experience in customer service, client relation officer with excellent communication skill seeks suitable placement. Contact: 95337665 10+ Years Exp , 8 years In UAE , in Logistics ,Warehouse & Inventory looking for Job. Contact Number -00968 98096086 Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipments.

Looking for good replacement.

Contact – 92015894 /95774854 Indian male age 24, B.Com. having 2 year experience and currently in visit visa. Looking for suitable placement in Sales, Marketing & finance. Contact: 90766307 Email: shhaazz.007@gmail.com Indian Origin, Portuguese Nationality male MBA (Marketing) excellent English vast multi-tasking experience 29+ years in Admin HR/PR Logistics sales facility management with Oman driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 94034168 Email: sheriagnes@gmail.com Indian male 37 years MBA graduate in marketing with 9yrs of experience in UAE in field of brand promotions & marketing with UAE D/L on a visit seeking suitable position. Conatct 95792820 Indian Male, 26 M.Com with 4 yrs of Experience in Accounting & Administration in a Financial Company in India, seeks suitable job, Currently in India. +918907212253 Akhil:-93626288, Email: Sumeshpsmkr1989@gmail.com BBA Bachelor of business administration exp in custom clearance procedure, also done international logistics management & Nimb National Institute business management (US) certification all documentation work related logistics. contact – 91949050 / akram.chaush001@gmail.com Indian Male, MBA marketing 5 yrs exp. in sales & 4 yrs in FMCG sector, looking for best opportunity.

NOC available. Contact: 96001877

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE A confident & more than 7 years experienced bilingual secretary/ admin officer with NOC looking for the right opening.

Please contact 94742482 Indian female, 25 yrs, Msc Biotechnology, looking for suitable job Contact 92619048 email: anusreeg1991@gmail.com Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment.

Contact 95244761 Looking for part time job Secretarial / Data Entry / Documentation available every day after 5:00 pm Friday / Saturday full day area preferred Ruwi/ CBD/ MBD / Al Khuwair. Contact: 90414827

TOURS & TRAVELS Indian female 25 yrs, Bachelor in Travel & Tourism and 2 year exp in Oman as Travel consultant GDS-Sabre, Amdeus. NOC Available.

Contact- 95883404 Indian male 25 years on visit in Oman seeing job travel & tourism & ticketing staff having IATA, 3 years experience. Contact: 90105780

MISCELLANEOUS Light Driver looking for job.

Contact: 99594946 B.E Mechanical Indian/(quality control and quality assurance certification) 2 years experience in field of production and projects.

Contact 0096879063064 Email:sayedwasif@gmail.com B.S.c in Electrical Engineering, 5 years experience.

Email : engmmg25@yahoo.com Indian Female, 22 BBA Graduate, Looking for suitable jobs in Accounting/ Admin/ Purchase/ Secretarial with good Communication skill and computer knowledge, Settled in Oman. Cont: 92511657, 97334325, 93626288, Email:Sumiap1421@gmail.com

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Female Nurse with MOH Licence. Looking for suitable placement in Muscat.

Contact: 95537685.

B.Tech Mechanical indian with 2 years experience in Pipelines and HVAC projects currently available in Oman with visa. Looking for suitable placements.

Contact:79062695, E-mail:aneespk37@gmail.com 28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honours, have 4 years of professional experience in Accounts, handling work of 15 companies independently.NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email idabdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian Male 29 years MBA, B.Com having 8 years experience in Gulf and India as a HR and Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact :97914340.

Email: kvraj30@gmail.com Indian Female one year freelance experience in FFFD Company in Oman in technical, Planning and admin works. Contact:94355787, Email-pdeepthi53@gmail.com Indian male- sales representative with 15 years experience in Oman and Dubai and valid Oman driving license. NOC or release available.

Contact :99624700 18 YRS in Oman, Indian, expertise in the field of administration, accounts and sales looking for senior level position. Serious parties only pls. contact: 96331725 email:-sainmct@gmail.com Indian male electrician (EEE) Safety Officer good worker searching for suitable job. Gmail Id: benatvinith@gmail.com, Contact : 8098221471 / 7639675548 13 years experience Indian Accountant Tally, Busy Accounting.

NOC/Release available. #96133146.

Email:kkcjob786@gmail.com Indian female having B.Tech degree in biotech. Having computer skill & having experience in marketing administration seeking suitable job in any field.

Contact: 91287047 Indian female (27) MBA (IT), BCA, CCNA, 2 years experience in IT operations in Oman. Graduated from Oman with good analytical, programming skills, presented in international conference, seeking suitable IT/Admin positions.

Contact: 93672143. Email: fathima.shoukath@gmail.com Sales & Marketing Manager with around 10 years experience in India & Gulf looking for a suitable placement, have a valid Omani driving license, NOC available.

Contact: 98125226 Indian male 27Yrs, BTS : MTM (Mater of Tourism Management) 3 years’ experience in Tour Operation; & Sales Marketing; Ticket reservation & Front office looking for suitable placement, on visiting visa Ph:98837395 , bijothomas427@gmail.com Indian female M.Tech (Biotech) with computer knowledge having experience in marketing, administration & accounting with resident visa seeking suitable job.

Contact: 91287047 Email: valliammai1000@gmail.com Assistance Accountant 6 yrs experience include in Oman B.Com, Tally & excel advance level.

Contact: 98002428 Male 22 years B.Tech Mechanical Engineering University (India) looking for suitable job. Possession of driving license, fresh Graduate no work experience. #97792809 HSE / Safety Engineer with 10 years exp having NEBOSH,OSHA seeks job (NOC available).

Contact 94165784 Male B. Eng in wireless networking (UK, Coventry university) seeking for suitable opportunity.

Contact: 96292450/ 99869692 B.Tech Electrical Engineer 9 years experience transmission substations and distribution Majan CEP , MEDC electrician license , driving license. Contact: 99545470 Email: liju982@gmail.com Indian female B.Com, MBA in Finance, 5 years experience in Oman as an Accountant, looking for a suitable placements.

Contact: 99044292 / 94431842

W E D N E S DAY, O C T O B E R 1 9, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

SITUATION WANTED Indian female PhD, M.Phil, M.A in English, B.Ed, Diploma TESOL,16 years teaching experience seeks suitable teaching, editing or relevant job. Contact: 92245591, 95221665 Indian female M.SC computer science experienced in teaching in B.Sc computers ( 4 years) seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 99845143 / 93214375 Indian male accountant looking for a part time accounting job / data entry / office job.

Contact : 93884951 Indian male 33 having 4 year experience in oman. Have valid driving license looking for job in any field. Contact: 98477536, Email: Irbqzahmed83@gmail.com HSE / Safety engineer with 10 years exp having NEBOSH, OSHA, Need job (NOC AVAILABLE) .

Contact # 94165784 Indian/male (26)/ MBA/ 2 years experience in procurement, coordination and distribution management, with valid Oman license, available for immediate joining. Contact: 92536194, email:suhailbs@gmail.com Indian male 27 MBA Graduate with experience looking for job in finance, Logistics or new field in OmanContact: 90884252, Email: tamjeedruk@gmail.com 4years and 7months experienced Female seeking job related to Office Job, Data Entry and Desktop Administration. Completed Diploma in Computer Science.

Contact 96135431 28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honours, have 4 years of professional experience in Finance, NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com Indian/male (26) MBA/ 2 years experience in procurement, coordination and distribution management, with valid Oman license available for immediate joining.

Contact: 92536194 email:suhailbs@gmail.com 23 year old Indian female, postgraduate in commerce with one year experience looking for any commerce related job in Muscat.

Currently in Muscat till 5th January 2017 on visit visa.

Contact number 96765202 Completed MCA and have 2 year experience looking for suitable jobs. Contact :9193400 email: jintajob@gmail.com

RENT A CAR

Indian male 26 years (EEE) , 4 years in HVAC related works, LT Electrical panels installations & commissioning planning of preventive maintenance works for DOL starters & star delta starters , seeking suitable job.

Contact: 93214375 / 99845143

TRANSPORTATION Indian male 21 bachelor’s of commerce (B.com) looking for salesmen or any new field job in oman, on family visit visa.

Contact: 94562777, Email: hammadakrami61@gmail.com Indian male mechanical supervisor having 2 years good working experience having knowledge in auto cad searching for suitable job.

Mobile: +919790585887 Mail: layobabin200.lb@gmail.com

House shifting and transport.

Contact: 96737158 Transportation available Pick and drop Ruwi, Al Khuwair, Azaiba & Al Hail. Contact: 94297820 Transportation. Contact: 94087276 Transportation. Contact 91703829 Transportation. Contact: 98178135

28,male, ACCA finalist, BSc Honors, have 4 years of professional experience in Finance, NOC available, seeking for permanent replacement at a Senior Position,GSM-97654769,email id-abdullah.nooralam@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTGOOD NEWS

Transportation. Contact 90558627 Transportation. Contact 94510847 Transportation. Contact 92015894

MANPOWER

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis, Ideal Care Ayurvedic clinic, 18th November Street Al Ghubra (North). Contact: 99639695 / 97397320 Ayurvedic treatments & massage – Ayurvedic Clinic Al Khuwair.

Contact 97263637 / 93309131 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com Car care, care for your car stop worrying about your car. Enjoy your vacation peacefully. Here is a solution for safe parking and cleaning your car when your car when you are away on vacation. Taking very good care of your car, trust us. #96964767

MATRIMONIAL Kerala Christian Orthodox girl, 23 yrs, MBA, final year having family visa in Oman seeks suitable marriage proposal. Contact 99780896 Marriage makers widow/ divorce/ new for Indian Kerala & Indian Muslims. Contact: Whatsapp: 00968 98796982 & calling 98604960 Ezhavaboy age 28 height 174cm Star anizhamBTech working in Oman Seeks suitable alliance.

Contact 99430227

WANTED Urgently required looking to immediately buy used Grit blasting & airless spray equipment 1 No each. Contact 968 24810930 / 93203772 / 93203773 / 93203778

CHANGE OF NAME I Pugazheni Malayappan (holder of Indian passport No. M 2924040) son of Late Mr. Malayappan having permanent residence in No: 7, 1st Street, Perambur High Road, Chennai Indian - 600012, Tamil Nadu (complete postal address in India) and presently residing in Way No: 3204, building No: 308, Al Ghubra North P.O Box: 6, P.C 618 Tel: 24490014 (complete postal address in Oman) intend to change my name from Pugazhendi Malayappan (old name) to Peter Pugazhendi Malayappan (new name) for all practical purpose. Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P. Box No. 1727, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP specification for monthly rent & small car with driver.

Contact 99839898

SITUATION WANTED BUSINESS

DRIVING

LOOKING FOR SUB CONTRACTING JOBS

Female Driving Teacher training professionally in both Khuwair Ghubrah and Azaiba, mawalih and Alkhawd. With good English Language for connect No.95133981

An SME’S excellent grade construction company is looking for civil subcontracting jobs.

We are specialized in interlocking, block work, plaster work etc.

Contact 91433508, Email : business@aljammaza.com

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W E D N E S D AY, O C T O B E R 1 9, 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED TOURS

SITUATION WANTED COMPUTER/WEB./ EDU./CLASSES

Karate and self defense classes at Azaiba 18 Nov Street. RO 10 per month twice a week Monday and Tuesday 6. 30 TO 7. 30. PM. Contact: 98294551

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

SITUATION WANTSERVICES MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807

Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control building. Cleaning tiles / Marble polishing monthly/ Yearly contracts available.

Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

in Azaiba and Ruwi

WE SERVE OMAN

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Office boys, Cleaning Contracts, General cleaning etc.

Al Mudakhir National Est. LLC Contact : 94277020

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Window unit & split unit A.C servicing & repairing - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area. Contact: 99557080

Maintenance, Sub contract work electrical work, plumbing work.

Contact: 97895741

House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

We do building maintenance all kind of works.

Contact: 99247663 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting,Plumbing,Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. Contact: 24810137, 99450130

• Learn in two months • Satisfaction guaranteed

Split unit & widow unit A.C servicing & maintenance Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area.

Contact 95323517

Tel: 95244310

We undertake new construction & maintenance & gypsum works.

Contact 92711506, ammarayyub@gmail.com Pest Control Treatments.

Ocean Center L.L.C. #99344723 Marble Crystallization & Grinding, Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 92705130 Affordable rates all types of curtain blind. Contact: 99539521/ 95615642 Carpet & Sofa Shampooing General Cleaning & Polishing Ocean Center L.L.C. Contact 24707833

Split unit & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance - Barka, Mabela, Ruwi area.

Contact: 96236476 Painting & plumbing work.

Contact: 95963682 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898 *Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability