Times of Oman - March 22, 2016

TUESDAY March 22, 2016 13 Jumada Al Thani 1437 AH

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FROM THE WORDS OF HIS MAJESTY THE SULTAN

At the Closing Session of the 10th Summit of the Cooperation Council of the Arab Gulf States in Muscat, 1989

‘His Majesty’s Wisdom’ Our consultations have also demonstrated our joint interest in sincerely contributing to the strengthening of the ties of Arab and Islamic solidarity, and in deepening the spirit of understanding and co-operation at all international levels, in the service of peace, security and stability.

Founded 1975 . Volume 41 No. 25

| 40 Pages . Baisas 200 . Subscription OMR63 | ISO 9001:2008 Certified Company | Chairman/Editor-in-Chief: Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali | Printed & Published by Muscat Media Group

ESCAPE THE FLOODWATERS New alert system coming online soon

Early warnings to save lives in Oman

93 have died in floods since 2003

TURN TO >A4 H O T T E R T H A N U S UA L M AY

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

OMAN

After the rain ends, brace for hot weather REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com

MORNING MINUTE

MUSCAT: After a wet April, Oman has to brace for a hotter summer starting from May, global meteorologists say.

“More prolonged heat and dryness is likely, starting in late April.

Compared to previous years, May will be hotter,” Jason Nicholls, a senior meteorologist at Accu-

weather.com, said. “We can see dry and warm to hot weather coming to Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as early as late April, with most indications being for a warmer-than-normal and likely drier-than-normal May,” the meteorologist said, adding that despite a rainy March, temperatures for the month had averaged 1.1 degrees Celsius above normal in Oman. >A6

#OmanPride: Teacher gives free Arabic classes

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An Omani holder of the Sloan fellowship in Leadership and Strategy from the London Business School, along with his friend, also an Omani, has launched an interactive website an to help non-Arabic speakers learn the language. >A5

Anantara’s new resort to open in July

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WORLD

BUSINESS

Obama, Raul meet

Orpic’s share to GDP

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Barack Obama and Raul Castro became the first US and Cuba presidents to hold talks in 88 years as the former arrived in Havana. >A14

Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company said that it will contribute $6.5b (equivalent to 8-9% ) to Oman’s GDP. >B1

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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The UK remains the favourite destination for Omani students. We are working hard to make the offers attractive and keep it that way Jonathan Wilks, UK ambassador to Oman

UK expo offers skills upgrade to Omani youth More than 30 British institutions are offering courses to young Omanis to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in fields of their choice

RIBBON-CUTTING: UK Education Expo features over 30 British

institutions and colleges. — Picture by Talib Al Wahibi/Times of Oman

TARIQ ZIAD AL HAREMI

tariqh@timesofoman.com

MUSCAT: Oman is developing and growing in sectors, such as aviation, railways and oil and gas and creating many attractive job opportunities for young Omanis; and the UK Education Expo, which features over 30 British institutions and colleges, could provide the push students need.

Inaugurated by Jonathan Wilks, the UK ambassador to Oman, more than 30 British institutions and colleges are offering courses to young Omanis to equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the fields of their choice.

While many sectors are developing tremendously, Omanisation in those sectors remain a priority for the Sultanate, however the country lacks the facilities and a high education level to provide the students with immense knowledge in their field.

“The UK remains the favourite destination for Omani students.

We are working hard to make the offers attractive and keep it that way,” said Wilks.

“I’ve been talking to some of these universities, who recognise that with lower oil prices, the general economic situation in the region, they have to be competitive in the fees they are charging, and the scholarships and grants they’re offering,” he added.

John Baron, subject area leader in Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, from the University of Huddersfield; said he realises that the Omani government is looking to Omanise the industry and that Omani students need to be highly trained to take on the challenges that they could face in their career.

“They’re (Oman Government) looking to train able young Omani men and women to take over jobs that are done by expats and in the oil and gas industries, that is certainly true,” said Baron.

“So they’ll continue to support those students to go to university in the United Kingdom or United

States or where ever,” he added.

When asked why students couldn’t find the same level of education in Oman as they would in the UK or elsewhere, he said that the Sultanate doesn’t have the capacity. Matt Christine, international development officer of the Middle East and South Asia from the University of Huddersfield, said diversification of students is important because everyone can learn different cultures and ideas and implement those ideas in different aspects of their careers.

“All international students from all over the world must have international experience.

When you come to our universities, you’ll see students from 120 different nationalities; and when you share that experience, you can share that wealth and knowledge. Diversity of knowledge definitely plays a part,” said Christine.

Al Ahlam UK Education Expo will continue in Muscat until March 22 at the Intercontinental Hotel and will move on to Salalah on March 23 at the Hilton Hotel.

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INAUGURAL FLIGHT

Jet Airways flags off first Muscat-Delhi direct flight Times News Service MUSCAT: India-based private airline, Jet Airways flagged off its inaugural direct flight from Muscat to Delhi on Monday.

Jet Airways will now operate a daily flight between Muscat and Delhi, providing greater choice for passengers travelling to India.

The addition of this new flight from the airline’s strategic hub in Delhi will further strengthen the airline’s growing international network and enhance flight connectivity from the Gulf region to destinations in Northern India RISK MANAGEMENT

Seminar held for contractors Times News Service Muscat: Risk Management Office (RMO) at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) organised a seminar entitled, “ContractorsTowards implementation of Risk Management Mandates and HSE code of practice” for contractors dealing with SQU and contract holders at the university on Monday.

In her welcome address, Nadhira Al Habsi from the RMO gave an overview of SQU and RMO’s vision mission and objectives. Dr. Salim Al Harthy, director, RMO, spoke about the new agenda for contractors at SQU following the adoption of a risk management policy at SQU and setting up an office for risk management at the university.

Al Harthy said setting a new agenda with contractors was based on safety compliance and risk mitigation in line with the national rules and regulations on Healthy Safety and Environment (HSE).

served by the airline. The new flight between Muscat and Delhi will make the airline’s role more significant in promoting travel between the two countries.

Indra Mani Pandey, India’s ambassador in Oman, graced the launch ceremony as the Chief Guest, and was accompanied by Shakir Kantawala, vice president, Gulf, Middle East and North Africa, Riyaz Kuttery, general manager, Oman, and the Jet Airways local team. Other distinguished members from travel trade, Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) and the Director Gen-

eral of Civil Aviation (DGCA), made the inaugural function truly special with their presence.

Symbolic cake cutting A symbolic cake cutting was done

by Ambassador Pandey, marked the flight launch.

Jet Airways flight 9W 597 duly took off from the Muscat International Airport at 02:30 hrs with a full complement of Premiere and Economy Class guests and will arrive at Delhi at 07:00 hrs. On the return, the flight will leave Delhi at 23:15 hrs to arrive in Muscat at 01:30 hrs.

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

OMAN M WA S A L AT N O T I C E

25mm

to 50 mm is the possible rainfall expected at a few locations according to Adam Douty, meteorologist from Accuweather.com

NEW SYSTEM

Flood alert system to be installed in July

Ruwi-Amerat bus service to start in April

FAHAD AL GHADANI/RAHUL DAS

MUSCAT: Oman National Transport Company (Mwasalat) announced that it will launch Ruwi-Al Amerat route on April 2, as part of the company’s previously announced plan on the routes that will be operated during the current year.

The company will operate buses to and from Ruwi-Al Amerat every 20 minutes starting at 6am until 9.40pm on weekdays and from 7am until 9.40pm during weekends and holidays.

Mwasalat plans to launch three main routes this year, namely Ruwi-Al Amerat, Ruwi-Muttrah-Al Alam Palace, and Al Khoudh-Al Sahwa Roundabout, passing by Sultan Qaboos University.

Mwasalat will announce during this year its strategic plan until 2040 as well as the details of its new routes in 2017. — ONA

MUSCAT: An early warning flash flood alert system to save lives and protect property will be operational in Oman by summer.

As forecasters again predict more rain, officials at the Oman Meteorology Department said work on the new system is at an advanced stage with July the target ‘go live’ date. Many locations across the Sultanate are prone to flash flooding, especially in the wadis, since 2003 the rapidly rising waters have claimed 93 lives and caused hundreds of thousands of rials of damage.

“The system is still under installation; some of the functions have been checked for accuracy and quality control. So far the preliminary results show promising results for the stakeholders and the general community,” the of-

fahadnews@timesofoman.com rahuldas@timesofoman.com

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Some of the deaths due to flooding in Oman

Twenty people were drowned in Bahla in 2003.

Cyclone Gonu in 2007 left 49 dead.

Cyclone Phet in 2010 left 6 dead.

Four people were dead in heavy rainfall in Hajar Mountains in September 2015.

In October 2015, 8 people were killed after several parts of Oman were hit by heavy rains.

On March 2016, 8 people were killed when thundershowers and flash floods hit Oman.

ficial said in a statement to Times of Oman.

The new system uses satellite derived precipitation (rain, hail, sleet or even snow at high ground) and radar technology.

‘People living in vicinity of dams not in danger’

Explaining how it works, the official said that flash flood guidance system will assist the forecasters in their effort to provide reliable and timely flash flood warnings.

“They will integrate the lat-

est developments in monitoring capabilities, such as satellite derived precipitation, radar technology, ground-station data, with the most recent advances in numerical weather prediction modelling.

It will use all of the different data sources to predict what will happen on landscape with respect to soil moisture and other important features that generate flash floods,” he elaborated.

Terming flash floods are a world-wide hazard, the official said unlike other weather-related events with specific geographic locations, every location where rain falls is vulnerable, from the tropics to the sub-polar regions.

“Flash floods, however, have a different character than river floods, notably short time scales and occurring in small spatial scales, which make forecasting quite a different challenge than traditional floods. The most important things that the Oman

flash flood guidance products can accomplish is to empowering forecasters to be able to improve their flash floods prediction to save lives and reduce economic losses.” Regarding the importance of such a project, he said since flash floods are among the most devastating of natural disasters, it is essential that flash flood warnings be formulated in a short time with as much specificity in timing and location as possible. “ As significant rainfall events may cover large areas, this information may be needed for multiple basins at once, he said.

This is a very challenging situation for forecasters and some type of guidance is necessary to organise the real-time data and information from multiple sources into easily usable and interpretable products, which are amenable to operational modification in a timely manner,” he further elaborated.

W E AT H E R

More rainfall is expected in Sultanate and UAE today REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: A cold front will bring more rain by Tuesday in a few locations in Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a meteorologist from Accuweather.com said.

He also forecast rainfall in the range of 25 to 50 millimetres (mm). “This cold front will bring isolated showers and thunderstorms to central Saudi Arabia on Monday. Storms will move to the south into the UAE and northeastern Oman by Tuesday, then into much of eastern Oman on Wednesday and on Thursday,” Adam Douty, the meteorologist from Accuweather.com, said.

“From Wednesday into Thursday, the threat of thunderstorms will move to the south into much of eastern Oman. Locally, heavy thunderstorms will develop from Al Ain to Rustaq, which are the same areas that saw flooding rainfall earlier in the month. A few locations could see as much as 25 to 50 mm (1.0 to 2.0 inches) of rain,” Douty added.

While these storms are not expected to pose much of a flooding threat, compared with previous

EXPECT MORE: Oman’s Meteorology Department on Sunday predicted flash floods, thundershowers and hailstorm from Tuesday until Thursday in Muscat, Mussandam, Buraimi, Dhahira, Batinah, Sharqiyah, Al Wusta and Dhofar. – File photo

storms between March 7 and March 10, isolated flash flooding is possible.

The greatest threat from thunderstorms in Muscat will extend from Tuesday night, through Wednesday and into Wednesday night. It will not rain this entire time; this is when rainfall is most likely. While flooding may not be as severe as earlier in the month, any flash floods could be deadly.

Water levels in normally dry rivers could quickly rise, even if it is not raining.

Dry weather by Friday As the cold front responsible for producing these thunderstorms moves out of the region later in the week, dry weather is expected to return by Friday.

Meanwhile, Oman’s Meteorology Department on Sunday predicted flash floods, thundershowers and hailstorm from Tuesday until Thursday in Muscat, Mussandam, Buraimi, Dhahira, Batinah, Sharqiyah, Al Wusta and Dhofar, due to a deep upper air trough.

B R I T I S H S C H O O L M U S C AT

NO CAUSE OF CONCERN: There are several ways to deal with such high-water situations, Eng. Nasser

bin Mohammed Al Battashi, Assistant Director General of Water Resources Assessment at Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources said. – File photo

Assurance comes after a number of residents expressed concerns about overflowing water from Wadi Dhayqah Dam, voicing concerns that such water might endanger them and their properties

FAHAD AL GHADANI

fahadnews@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: There is no need to be afraid of living near the dams in the country, a top official at the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources has stressed to the public. The assurance has come after a number of residents expressed concerns about overflowing water from Wadi Dhayqah Dam, voicing concerns that such water might endanger them and their properties.

With the Wadi Dhayqah Dam overflowing following the latest rains in the Sultanate, a number of residents living in areas close to dam have voiced their concerns

about safety, fearing they could be facing dangerous consequences if the water levels were to rise higher.

Their concerns have recently become more aggravated, since more rains have been predicted by weather officials in the coming days. “The dam is full and there is a third low depression on the way,” said Ali Al Junaibi, a resident of Quraiyat.

“The overflowing dam water is a risk to us and our properties. While we completely trust the concerned authorities here, we need to be reassured this situation is not dangerous for us,” said Al Junaibi.

However, a top official at the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources (MRMWR) said there is no need for residents to panic.

Eng. Nasser bin Mohammed Al Battashi, Assistant Director General of Water Resources Assessment at MRMWR, said there are several ways to deal with such high-water situations.

“This water is precious to the Sultanate. It would be illogical to just waste it and open the dam, which has water all the time,” noted Al Battashi.

The official also explained that while the overflows are currently open, they are very small compared to the huge amount of water in the dam.

“The small size helps us control the water flow, while also holding back as much water as we can to benefit from it in different ways,” explained Al Battashi, while adding that since rain is not expected to be heavy in the coming days, resident should not be concerned.

“They should, in fact, enjoy the

lovely scene of the water overflowing from the dam,” he said.

However, the Water Rescue teams at the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulances (PACDA) have rescued 31 people, including women and children, who were stranded in Wadi Dhayqah Dam, according to a reliable source at the PACDA. The source added that the rescue operation took almost four hours. PACDA has called upon citizens, residents and visitors to follow safety guidelines and not risk their lives by crossing overflowing wadis. PACDA has also urged parents to look after their children while picnicking and avoid areas near the dams.

Nawaf Al Balushi, one of the family members, told Times of Oman that he and his 33 family members were stuck in the Wadi Dhayqah area last Friday.

“It was a bad experience. I lost my car, and another car belong to my cousin was terribly damaged,” said Nawaf.

He added that the family was sitting in an area between two sides of water while the dam was discharging water, increasing water on both sides.

“In time we thought it would become dangerous to sit there for a longer time. We tried to drive to the other side, when my vehicle and the other vehicle became caught in the water,” said Nawaf.

He added that the PACDA force reached the area in time and rescued his family. “I guess the mistake was in the place we chose. It’s really dangerous to be near dam areas, especially when the dam water is overflowing,” said Nawaf.

Isabella Dakin secures first place in Dragon’s Den Project at BSM

ENVIRONMENT CHAMPIONS: The challenge for children was to enter The Dragons’ Den for their

notional chance to win $1 billion to improve a current environmental concern or issue. – Supplied photo

Staff Reporter MUSCAT: Isabella Dakin, a Year 6 student secured the first place in the Dragon’s Den Project at the British School Muscat (BSM) on Monday afternoon.

Topic of this project was Plastic Ocean. “This project is a wonderful way for children to develop skills in many areas and to apply their knowledge. It has allowed the children to demonstrate what resourceful learners they are by displaying the school’s learning ethos of curiosity, resilience, reflection and motivation,” Tamsin Turner, Primary School Humanities Coordinator, British School Muscat told the Times of Oman.

“This is part of our humanities work which looks at environmental concerns,” she added. According to her the challenge for chil-

dren was to enter The Dragons’ Den for their notional chance to win $1 billion to improve a current environmental concern or issue. The presentations were made before a panel of Dragons, members of British School Muscat staff and their classmates.

Dragons, the judges of the event were Kai Vacher, Principal of British School Muscat; HaynesMcCartney, Head of Primary School; Nadia Megnin, Head of Senior School; Jonathan Turner Managing Director of Masirah International Marine and Technical Services. There were four classes of 22 children in Year 6 – total 88 pupils in the Year Group.

The children hoped to persuade the Dragons to part with $1 billion to fund their solution.

“The top two presentations from each class went through to

today’s final,” Turner said.

Finalists got three minutes to speak and two minutes to answer questions following their presentations. According to the teachers, the students spoke about some amazing ways to save the environment. While Alex Mallalah spoke about clean drinking water in Africa, Evie Winning spoke about Every Drop of Water counts and Frankie King spoke on Clean Water to all.

The other finalist Natalya Henein shared her thoughts on over fishing and how to control wile Elizabeth Johnson spoke about deforestation. Annabelle Ford spoke about plastic pollution and James Black spoke about clean energy. James secured second place while the third position was shared between Annabelle Ford and Alex Mallalah.

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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OMAN Young Omani starts free website for Arabic language teaching SCAN THIS TO INSTANTLY LAUNCH TWITTER PAGE

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Aadil Al Saadi along with a friend, also Omani, launched the site last week. So far 53 registrations from Europe, the United States and Oman have been logged REJIMON K

reji@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: An Omani holder of the Sloan fellowship in Leadership and Strategy from the London Business School, along with his friend, also an Omani, has come up with an innovative idea to teach non–Arabic speakers the language.

The two have launched an easyto-navigate and interactive website: (http://bestarabi.talentlms.com/) for non-Arabic speakers, who want to learn Arabic free of charge.

“In the first phase, we launched the online platform for beginners’ level. Any person can sign up for free using social media and access a free 90-minute interactive course to learn Arabic. It will help non-Arabic speakers develop basic Arabic speaking skills needed during dayto-day life,” Aadil Al Saadi told the Times of Oman.

Launched last Thursday, the website has so far got 53 registrations from Europe, the United States and Oman. In the beginners’ course, the learner will learn basic

B U S I N E S S C O N S U LTA N C Y

Workshops throw light on rights of employers, staff

WORKSHOP: Held at a Riyada incubator under the auspices of Hamad bin Khamis Al Amri, undersecretary at the Ministry of Manpower, the event also highlighted the rights of employers and employees. — Supplied photo

Times News Service MUSCAT: A series of workshops focussing on providing specialised business consultancy for incubated companies were organised by the National Business Centre (NBC) under a Mashura initiative on Monday.

The NBC, falls under the umbrella of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE). Held at a Riyada incubator under the auspices of Hamad bin Khamis Al Amri, undersecretary at the Ministry of Manpower, the Mashura event also highlighted the rights of employers and employees.

Officials from the Ministry of Manpower explained various issues related to these rights and emphasised that the ministry is making significant efforts for supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The ministry has trained a number of its employees—around 201—who deal constantly with the owners of SMEs in cooperation with the Public Authority for SMEs Development.

Among the topics discussed during the Mashura event were

Omani Labour Law, its definitions and provisions; employment of citizens and regulation of foreigners’ work; work contracts; wages, leave and working hours; labour disputes; labour unions and Oman’s General Union of Workers; and penalties. It should be noted that the Mashura initiative consists of a series of workshops that deliver specialised consultancy in business for the incubated companies. Topics discussed during these workshops included entrepreneurship and law, tenders and contracts, company values, among others.

NBC is an initiative launched

by PEIE at the Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM), which offers promising Omani entrepreneurs a platform to develop their business ideas and advance them into growing ventures.

The centre offers a premier platform for Omani entrepreneurs by providing business development support and guidance, training and mentoring, access to markets and industry experts, and state-of-the-art and fully equipped office space, meeting rooms and presentation facilities.

QUALIFIED SPECIALISTS

Need for qualified Islamic bankers MUSCAT: There is an urgent need for qualified professionals in the Islamic Finance sector, which is poised for significant growth in the Sultanate, according to Azhar Hamid, the Director for Shariah Audit and Compliance at Ahli Bank.

Hamid was delivering the keynote address at the open seminar on Islamic Banking and Finance organised recently by the Modern College of Business and Science at the City Seasons Hotel.

The seminar, attended by banking professionals and others who hope to seek a career in the booming Islamic Finance industry, shed light on aspects of Islamic Banking, including key

instruments and its significance in ensuring a healthy economy.

Dr. Ahmed Al Naamany, Dean of the College, noted, “With Oman opening up its financial industry to the Islamic Banking system, modern colleges want to contribute to the development of the sector by building a generation of trained Islamic Banking specialists. Our master programme in Islamic Banking, designed in collaboration with a leading Malaysian university, is a step in that direction. This seminar is another effort from our community to strengthen Oman’s Islamic Banking sector by bringing together the best minds in the industry.”

greetings in Arabic, how to address family members, food, jobs and furniture vocabulary.

The teaching materials combine flash, YouTube videos, pdf vocabulary lists and small quizzes. In addition, an optional live session with a course instructor is available for practising pronunciation, and summarising the course models.

“In the coming days, we will launch the front-end of the platform to give users full interactive access to the full courses catalogue. We will also launch intermediate and advanced level courses and will ar-

range tutors’ live streaming classes for learners,” Al Saadi said, adding that those who want to complete the course will also be given a certificate. Al Saadi has already formed a group of volunteers who will tutor for the live streaming classes.

“Whether you want to blend in the Arabic-speaking community, need Arabic to do your job better, or simply travel to an Arabicspeaking country, there is always a need to learn Arabic. It will also equip people for professional growth. This has led me to launch this kind of a website,” Al Saadi added. He also has plans to launch special Arabic courses on the same platform for bankers, doctors and diplomats very soon.

“Work is on. We will be launching special packages for the above said professionals,” Al Saadi said, adding that he will be tying up with some good Arabic teaching colleges as part of enriching the course materials and level of studies.

NOVEL INITIATIVE: In the first phase, we launched the online

platform for beginners’ level. Any person can sign up for free using social media and access a free 90-minute interactive course to learn Arabic, Aadil Al Saadi. -Supplied photo

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016 However, at this moment we will not be able to predict whether May will be hotter when compared to previous years.

Saeed Al Sarmi, Head of the Research Centre at PACA

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Anantara’s new luxury resort to open in July its own private swimming pool, their infinity-edges stretching over the cliffs or hidden in an exotic garden.

Villa guests have the choice of either one or two bedrooms, including the exclusive Royal Mountain Villa. Each villa will include state-of-the-art interactive LED TV and spacious walkin dressing areas, all adding to a sense of sublime luxury.

Culinary desires are catered to by a collection of six restaurants and lounges.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and enjoying cool temperatures year round, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar presents a range of inspiring moments in a chilled clime

Times News Service MUSCAT: Perched 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort will welcome the world’s most discerning luxury travellers from July.

Guests will hover over an extreme landscape of rugged beauty while they discover a cultured treasury of authentic indulgences and immersions in the destination’s rich heritage. Upon its launch, the resort will be the highest luxury hotel in the Middle East and amongst the highest in the world.

Having been inaccessible for long, the Al Jabal Al Akhdar (Arabic for “The Green Mountain”) is a towering massif on the Sultanate of Oman’s vast Saiq Plateau.

Dramatic peaks ring the setting.

Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana once sought out its breathtaking heights on a helicopter, alighting to revel in the scenic

GET PAMPERED: Resort will be the highest luxury hotel in the

Middle East. — Supplied pictures

views. Today, the arrival journey takes guests on an adventurous drive—two hours from the Muscat International Airport or four and a half hours from Dubai—past date plantations, valleys known locally as wadis, and historical forts. The Anantara echoes this fortified architecture, placing guests in modern ramparts inspired by the commanding indigenous citadels and re-imagined with sophisticated contemporary interiors.

A total of 115 guest rooms and villas overlook the drama of the canyon or tranquil gardens.

Rain shower Each features its own indigenous luxuries from custom-made Omani furniture to Amouage bath products evoking the region’s priceless fragrances. The resort’s 82 premier and deluxe rooms boast a spacious bedroom, amongst the largest in the country, and a spa-like bathroom carved out of sustainable material from the local area, complete with a rain shower and separate bath, alongside a terrace or balcony.

Meanwhile, 33 villas grant guests an intimate escape each with personal butler services and

Canyon views Diners will be invited to rise above the courtyard to savour fine dining at the Arabian grill restaurant placed in a central fort tower with sheesha water pipes and tapas, as well as a Roman inspired kitchen with canyon views. For a more extravagant experience, Anantara’s ‘Dining by Design’ invites guests to dine at the spectacular cliff ’s edge platform, Diana’s Point, on the site of the royal visit.

Another Anantara signature, the ‘Spice Spoons’ cooking class allows guests to accompany a chef to the local souq (market) and to the resort’s own Chef’s Garden before being guided in the secrets of cooking Omani or Thai cuisine.

Surrounded by majestic mountains and enjoying cool temperatures year round, the Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar presents a range of inspiring moments in a perfectly chilled clime, a respite from the heat faced by the Gulf region for much of the year.

The resort puts travellers in touch with the local culture, history and landscape in personalised arrangements, including mountaintop sunrise yoga and stargazing beneath the blanket of a remote night sky.

O G WA E X H I B I T I O N

MAKING A POINT: Oil and gas expo features about 300 companies from 16 countries. — Picture by Jun Estrada/Times of Oman

Major expo focuses on oil, gas industry MOBIN MATHEW BLESSON

mobinmathew@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: Some of the exhibitors at the Oil and Gas West Asia (OGWA) Exhibition, currently on at the Oman International Exhibition Centre, said the dip in the oil prices and the lack of gas is affecting their business and projects.

According to Findlay Beveridge of Hydratron, a supplier of high pressure equipment, the global market of oil and gas is not on a good track.

“Many companies in the supply and manufacturing sector are down by 30 to 50 per cent from where they were two years ago and are experiencing a lot of cutbacks,” Beveridge told the Times of Oman.

“This has forced us to develop new products that can be used in the aerospace sector,” he said.

“With the current decline in oil prices, it has become even more important for oil companies to look at ways of reducing production costs,” an official commented.

According to another attendee, Oman is the first to take advantage of solar energy to replace traditional fuel resources to generate steam for enhanced oil recovery.

“By using solar, gas saved can be directed towards higher value applications to stimulate Oman’s economy and this will have a lasting impact on growth,” he said.

Some hoped that the misery will change soon and that oil prices will return to the early stage because demand is always there from countries, such as China and India.

According to Paulo Morgado from Suncnim, a company from France said the dullness in the market may slow down their projects.

“It may delay our projects, but we find that people are thinking of a long term process, especially people in the Middle East,” Morgado said. “This is a short term impact so the effect will not go on for long,” he added.

Major exhibitors at the expo include PDO, BP Oman, Oman Gas Company, Oman LNG, Oman Oil Company, Daleel Petroleum, Schlumberger, Shell Development Oman, Vanguard Engineering and Oilfield Services, Seven Seas Petroleum, SASOL, Delta Corporation, Huwaei Technologies, CC Energy Development, OXY, Port of Duqm, Glass Point Solar and Dover Oil Lift.

EXPERT SPEAKS

Oman well placed for diversified industry: Korean ex-minister Times News Service MUSCAT: Leadership, combined with proper plan of industrialisation, financing and human capital, are crucial for the success of industrial diversification and economic prosperity of any nation, said Joong Kyung Choi, former minister of Knowledge Economy, Republic of South Korea.

A veteran finance official, who has served in key finance posts in the South Korean government, said this while delivering a talk on “The Success Story of Korea’s Economy” at the College of Economics and Political Science, Sultan Qaboos University (SQU).

South Korea’s experience “From South Korea’s experience since 1970s, industrial diversification is the main driving force of economic development. Development of human capital is equally important for maintaining a sustainable economy. The govern-

ment has a vital role to play in formulating a plan and laying the roadmap for industrial diversification. Government intervention within and outside the market in the form of huge investments, research and development, credit guarantees, etc. is vital for industrial growth and diversification,” Choi said.

Praisworthy effort He also expressed the opinion that Oman is well positioned to have a diversified industry, which is necessitated by the fall in oil prices.

He praised Oman’s efforts to promote small and medium enterprises as part of its economic diversification plans and advised the government to provide credit guarantee for new technologybased entrepreneurs.

As prerequisites for developing human capital and promoting capacity building, Choi suggested fair recruitment and admis-

sion policies to mobilise talent regardless of the background of the candidates.

Over the past four decades, South Korea has demonstrated incredible economic growth and global integration to become a high-tech industrialised economy.

During the 1960s, gross domestic product per capita was comparable with levels in poorer countries in Africa and Asia.

In 2004, South Korea joined the trillion-dollar club of world economies.

A system of close government and business ties, including directed credit and import restrictions, initially made this success possible.

Later, Choi held a meeting with Dr Ali bin Saud Al Bimani, the vice chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University and discussed ways of enhancing cooperation between Korean institutions and SQU to facilitate training for faculty and students at SQU.

DISCUSSIONS: Joong Kyung Choi, former minister of Knowledge Economy, Republic of South Korea said that the government has a vital role to play in formulating a plan and laying the roadmap for industrial diversification. – Supplied photo

R A I S I N G AWA R E N E S S

Oman Avenues Mall observes ‘Earth Hour’ Times News Service MUSCAT: As the world stands at a climate crossroads, it is powerful yet humbling to think that our actions today will decide what tomorrow will look like for the generations to come.

From changing individual behaviour to legislation, Earth Hour has achieved massive environmental impact, but as climate change accelerates, our response needs to grow too.

The Oman Avenues Mall pledged to raise awareness by

switching off non-essential lights, which will help guide over 172 Earth Hour teams worldwide to change the attitude towards climate change in their country.

Commenting on the celebrations for Earth Hour 2016, general manager, Ben Watson said, “The

Oman Avenues Mall has always strived to stay ahead in the betterment of the community, so we had run a campaign on social media with #OMANEARTHHOUR2016 from March 16, 2016. The power supply to common areas and the Mall were switched off.”

W E AT H E R U P D AT E

< FROM

A1 ‘March rains have claimed eight lives’ On Sunday, Oman’s Meteorological Department (Met) predicted heavy rain in the northern parts of Oman from Tuesday till Thursday, due to a deep upper air trough.

Heavy rain fell in different parts of Oman during the first and second week of March, resulting in overflowing wadis (valleys) and dams. The heavy March rains have claimed eight lives in Oman so far.

According to Jason despite frequent rain falls, 2016 is unlikely to be the wettest year on record since January and February were much drier than normal with no rain recorded in January.

“March has been much wetter than normal across northern Oman and UAE, but the rest of Oman has seen little or no rain. In fact, around Muscat, the month to date for rainfall is only 90 per cent of normal so actually slightly below normal,” Jason added.

If it rains in April Meanwhile, Saeed Al Sarmi, the head of the Research Centre from Public Authority for Civil Aviation (PACA) told the Times of Oman, that if it rains in April, summer may be delayed in Oman.

“However, at this moment we will not be able to predict whether

May will be hotter when compared to previous years,” Al Sarmi said.

A data released by NASA this month also has confirmed that February 2016 was not only the warmest month ever measured globally, at 1.35 degrees Celsius above the long-term average—it was more than 0.2 degrees Celsius warmer than the previously most unusually warm month ever measured: January 2016.

The new NASA data confirms unofficial data released earlier this month showing a dramatic and ongoing surge in the planet’s temperature.

World Meteorological Organisation has also said that 2016 could be hotter due to the El Niño weather pattern, warning inaction on climate change could see temperatures rise by 6 degrees Celsius or more.

“Whilst a strong El Niño event is currently in progress, the impact of El Niño (and La Niña) on global annual mean temperatures is typically strongest in the second calendar year of the event,” the WMO report says “and hence the year whose annual mean temperature is likely to be most strongly influenced by the current El Niño is 2016 rather than 2015.”

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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OMAN DIPLOMACY

NINTH EDITION

ARAB LEAGUE

Alawi receives Italian envoy’s credentials

Muscat International Film Festival opens

MUSCAT: Yousuf bin Alawi bin Abdullah, Minister Responsible for Foreign Affairs received in his office on Monday Giorgio Visetti, the new Italian ambassador to the Sultanate, who presented a copy of his credentials. Alawi welcomed the ambassador, wishing him success in his tour of duty and the bilateral relations between the Sultanate and Italy further progress.

The meeting reviewed means of enhancing cooperation between the two friendly countries and discussed a number of regional and international issues of common concern. The meeting was attended by Dr. Ali bin Ahmed al-Isa’eei, Acting Undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry for Diplomatic Affairs and a number of officials in the ministry. -ONA

MUSCAT: Ninth Muscat International Film Festival (MIFF) organised by Oman Film Society (OFS) opened at Grand Hormuz Hotel yesterday under the auspices of Dr Suad bint Mohammed Al Lawatiyah, Deputy Chairman of the State Council in the presence of a number of officials and art and cinema professionals from Oman and beyond.

Dr. Khalid bin Abdul Raheem Al Zadjali, Chairman of OFS and chairman of MIFF in his speech pointed out that investment in cinema may be more lucrative than any other business. He added that the Sultanate is known for its diverse geography, thus may be used in shooting films.

This can play an important role in promoting the tourism poten-

tials in the Sultanate.

The ceremony included a video on the films staking part at the Festival namely 11 dramas, 13 short films, 9 documentary and 3 films for watch only.

Twelve Omani films are taking part in the Omani Film Forum Competition, in addition to 19 films outside the competition (watch only). The ceremony included song performances in four languages and a performance of music on violin.

At the end of the opening ceremony, the Deputy Chairman of State Council and chief guest honored Bosi, Samir Sbri and Kareem Abdul Aziz, from Egypt.

MIFF will include a number of training courses and seminars by guests of the festival. -ONA

AGREEMENT SIGNED

Al Khuwair to get a Hilton hotel MUSCAT: A new four-star hotel and a public park will come up in Muscat’s Al Khuwair area at a cost of OMR15.5 million.

Eng Mohsen bin Mohammed Al Sheikh, Chairman of Muscat Municipality (MM) and Eng Khalid bin Hilal Al Yahmadi, CEO

of Muscat National Development and Investment Company “ASAAS’ on Monday signed an agreement to invest the MM land in the second stage in Al Khuwair (16,763 square metres) with a usufruct agreement for 50 years.

ASAAS will construct a 4-star

hotel and a modern public park at an estimated cost of OMR15.5 million. The project will be operated and managed by Hilton Garden Inn of Hilton Global. The agreement is the first of its kind to be signed with the private sector to set up a public park. -ONA

MOVING AHEAD: Dialogue on drafting the Libyan constitution continued at Rotana Resort in Salalah

in an atmosphere that bodes well for reaching a national reconciliation on the issue. – ONA

Oman praised for hosting Libya statute meeting CAIRO: Arab League has appreciated and thanked the Sultanate for hosting the meetings of the Libyan Constitution Drafting Assembly in Salalah under the aegis of the United Nations (UN).

Ahmed bin Heli, Deputy Secretary General of the Arab League said in a statement yesterday, “We thank and appreciate the Sultanate for hosting the team in-charge of drafting the new Libyan constitution. This is an estimated effort from an Arab country that seeks to help the Libyan brothers who are in dire need for such help”.

He pointed out that the meetings are very important to start the

PDC, Duqm Ahlia sign land lease agreement This agreement comes within the framework of supporting the local community through Duqm Ahlia Development

MUSCAT: Port of Duqm Company (PDC) and Duqm Ahlia Development have signed a 25 year land lease agreement for a 5 hectre plot in the Port of Duqm concession area. It is an important milestone in the further development of the activities for both companies in the Sultanate. Dr. Ahmed bin Mo-

hammed Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the PDC said in a statement that this agreement comes within the framework of supporting the local community through Duqm Ahlia Development.

Dr Al Futaisi pointed out that the work at the port is constantly progressing as the first three months of 2016 witnessed an increase in the activity of ports of Duqm, Sohar and Salalah comparing to the same period last year. He explained that such remarkable increasing activity of the Omani ports reflects the continuity of trade activity despite the oil prices slump.

For Port of Duqm, the agreement is very important as Duqm Ahlia is the first company, which will provide warehousing and general logistic services in the Duqm Port logistic area, including trucking and customs clearance activities for a multiple of

industries. The plot is strategically positioned in close proximity to the Port’s commercial quay from where the majority of the goods will be imported and re-exported.

Duqm Ahlia Development is a joint-stock company established by residents of the Wilayat of Duqm with the clear aim to support the development of the Duqm Special Economic Zone megaproject and make the residents of the wilayat partners in this economic renaissance that the government plans for.

By this step, citizens of the wilayat make it easier for all those wishing to support the local community there as this company shall be the melting pot through which government and private support would reach the largest possible number of people from the local community in the wilayat. Apart from pure logistics services, Duqm Ahlia Development also offers a wide range of ship

I N I T I AT I V E

Zubair SEC, Bank Muscat sign deal to boost small businesses

JOINING HANDS: MoU between the two leading establishments committed to SME development was signed at the bank’s head office by Waleed bin Khamis Al Hashar, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Bank Muscat, and C. S. Badrinath, Chief Executive Officer of Zubair Corporation. - ONA

MUSCAT: In a thrust to promote entrepreneurial initiatives in the Sultanate, Bank Muscat and Zubair Small Enterprises Centre (Zubair SEC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to extend support to entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses.

The MoU between the two leading establishments was signed at the bank’s head office by Waleed bin Khamis Al Hashar, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Bank Muscat, and C. S. Badrinath, Chief Executive Officer of Zubair Corporation, in the presence of top management executives from both sides.

Al Hashar said: “Bank Muscat is proud to join hands with Zubair SEC to support SMEs in Oman.

The main objective of the bank’s SME strategy is to complement

Collaboration with key contributors to the SME sector’s development in the Sultanate lies at the heart of Zubair SEC’s strategy

the government efforts in empowering entrepreneurs to chart successful business ventures by providing necessary training, guidelines and tools.

Commenting on the MoU, Mohammed bin Mubarak Al Hasani, Chief of Corporate Communications at the Zubair Corporation, said: “Collaboration with key contributors to the SME sector’s

development in the Sultanate lies at the heart of Zubair SEC’s strategy, as we believe strongly in the importance of synchronising efforts towards extending best support and opportunities for the Omani entrepreneurs. We are very pleased to sign the MoU with Bank Muscat, which opens further channels of support to SMEs approaching both sides.” -ONA

support services, which they also intend to develop further in the Duqm area.

Reggy Vermeulen, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Port of Duqm stated that: “Port of Duqm is proud to support the Duqm Ahlia Development as one of the first and major private local investors in the Duqm logistics area.

Their project will substantially contribute in the further development of Duqm as a major attraction point for logistical and industrial activities”.

Sheikh Taher bin Mabkhout Al Junaibi, CEO of Duqm Ahlia Development commented on the event: “This agreement comes as a culmination of cooperation between Port of Duqm Co. and Duqm Ahlia Development Company since the start of the initial operations of the port four years ago by providing logistic services for the port and to the companies operating in the oil and gas sector in the Sultanate.” -ONA

work of the national reconciliation government. He added that drafting the articles of the constitution is an important step in the building of the Libyan national.

“The Arab League is conducting negotiations with all relevant parties to support the reconciliation government and empower it to carry out its missions related to restoring peace and stability and taking Libya out of this crisis at the earliest,” he further said.

Dialogue Meanwhile, in Salalah yesterday the dialogue sessions on drafting the Libyan constitution continued

at Rotana Resort in Salalah amid an atmosphere that bodes well for reaching a national reconciliation on the issue.

Martin Kobler, Special Representative of the United Nations (UN) Secretary General who attended part of the sessions of the Libyan dialogue said that the parties of the Libyan Constitution Drafting Assembly had cut half way towards reaching an accord.

Legal experts are making efforts to assist Libyan brothers to come out from Salalah meetings with positive outcomes as the Sultanate has provided them with the conducive environment for talks. -ONA

A8

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016 The plane’s flight data recorder survived largely intact, but the cockpit voice recorder - which should shed light on the pilots’ final conversations before the crash - was badly damaged, leading officials to say initially it could take weeks to restore it

REGION

Russian investigators retrieve data from black-box of flydubai plane Blood samples sent for DNA test

Russia’s Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev ordered officials to examine flight safety rules after the crash

MOSCOW: Russian investigators said on Monday they had been able to retrieve data from a damaged cockpit voice recorder recovered from the scene of a plane crash at the weekend in southern Russia that killed all 62 people on board.

Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev ordered officials to examine whether Russia’s flight safety rules needed to be tightened up after the crash, which happened as the Boeing 737-800 tried to land at a regional airport in strong, gusting wind. Questions have been raised about why the aircraft went ahead with its attempts to land when another jet heading for the same airport a short while earlier had diverted elsewhere because of the bad weather.

The crashed jet, operated by Dubai-based budget carrier flydubai, came down in the early hours of Saturday at Rostov-onDon airport in southern Russia on its second attempt to land after flying from Dubai.

The plane’s flight data recorder survived largely intact, but the cockpit voice recorder - which should shed light on the pilots’ final conversations before the crash - was badly damaged, leading officials to say initially it could take weeks to restore it.

“Memory has already been retrieved from the black boxes, it’s being worked on,” a spokesman of I S - H E L D PA L M Y R A

26 Syrian soldiers killed BEIRUT: IS militants killed 26 Syrian soldiers on Monday west of Palmyra, a monitoring group said, after days of advances by government forces backed by Syrian and Russian air cover.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said last week that the Syrian army would soon recapture Palmyra from IS, which has held the desert city for nearly a year.

Palmyra has both symbolic and military value as the site of ancient Roman-era ruins - mostly destroyed by the ultra-hardline group - and because of its location on a highway linking mainly government-held western Syria to IS’s eastern stronghold.

The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the fighting took place about 4 km (2 miles) west of Palmyra.

It was not possible to independently verify the death toll. Syria’s state news agency SANA said the army and allied forces, backed by the Syrian air force, carried out “concentrated operations” against IS around Palmyra and the ISheld town of Al Qaryatayn, about 100km further west.

After more than five months of air strikes in support of Syrian President Bashar Al Assad, Putin announced the withdrawal last week of most Russian forces. But Russian planes have continued to support army operations near Palmyra. — Reuters

INSPECTION: Aviation experts inspect the flight recorder from the crashed Boeing 737-800 Flight FZ981 operated by Dubai-based budget

carrier flydubai, in Moscow, Russia. – Reuters/Interstate Aviation Committee/Handout via Reuters

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the Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC), which is investigating the crash, told Reuters. “The decoding of the two black boxes may take between several weeks and several months,” he said.

VIDEO

There is so far no suggestion of an attack on the aircraft.

Russian media say the two main theories under consideration by investigators are possible pilot error or a technical failure.

Investigators are likely to focus, among other issues, on how the decision to land was reached, why the plane circled above the airport in a holding pattern for over two hours, and on the precise thinking of the pilots and the airport’s landing tower.

Flydubai’s CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith said on Saturday it was too early to determine why the plane, which was just over five years old, crashed.

Medvedev told the government to analyse the reasons behind the crash.

“If there are some technological issues, then they should be analysed and, at the conclusion of that analysis, proposals should be made to the government so that some amendments can be made to technical equipment, if that’s needed, or to the rules that exist in our country’s aviation,” he said, without elaborating. — Reuters

KOCHI: Indian authorities on Monday sent blood samples of the relatives of a young couple from Kerala - Shyam Mohan and his wife Anju, who were among 62 killed in the flydubai passenger jet crash, to Russia for DNA test to identify their bodies.

A close relative of Mohan said a team of health officials from Ernakulam district administration collected blood samples of his parents and Anju’s mother and brother last night for the purpose of conducting DNA test.

“The blood samples have been sent to New Delhi this morning. It will be sent to Russia via foreign office to conduct DNA matching,” he said.

Relatives said they were informed that DNA matching has to be done with the remains of passengers and crew of the flight to identify the bodies. Mohan and Anju were among 62 passengers who were killed.

The couple hailed from Vengola village, near Perumbavoor in Ernakulam district. Both were working as therapists at an Ayurvedic spa in Russia. — PTI

M I LTA N T AT TA C K

BP, Statoil to withdraw staff from Algerian plants ALGIERS: BP and Norway’s Statoil will withdraw staff from two gas plants in Algeria after an attack by militants on one of the sites in the North African country, the companies said on Monday.

Militants attacked the In Salah gas plant, operated with stateowned Sonatrach, with rockets on Friday, causing no casualties or damage. Al Qaeda’s North Africa branch claimed responsibility for the attack.

Algeria’s energy infrastructure has been heavily protected by the army, especially since a 2013 attack on the In Amenas gas plant, also operated by BP and Statoil, during which 40 oil workers were killed. “BP has decided to undertake a phased temporary relocation of all its staff from the In Salah Gas and In Amenas JVs in Algeria over the next two weeks.

This decision has been taken as a precautionary measure,” the British firm said in a statement.

Statoil said it would also withdraw staff from the In Salah and In Amenas plants, together with staff from its operations centre at Hassi Messaoud.

Rotation “It will happen over the next few weeks. Those who are on rotation now will not be replaced when they finish their shifts,” a Statoil spokesman said, declining to say for security reasons how many employees would be affected.

Moumene fields, to bring output to 9 billion cubic metres a year.

Statoil, BP and Sonatrach were due to restart the third and final processing train at the In Amenas gas plant, damaged during the 2013 attack, later this year.

Statoil repeated on Monday the restart of that train would still happen “in the coming months”.

THE FACILITY: Rockets were fired on an Algerian gas plant run by foreign energy giants in an attack

on March 18, this year, claimed by Al Qaeda, three years after a deadly hostage crisis at another facility in the country. – AFP

“It’s only been four days since shots were fired at In Salah. The production started again, but in the current situation we believe that this is the right decision to make,” the spokesman added.

Sonatrach workers were maintaining gas output after BP and Statoil announced they would pull out some of their staff, a Sonatrach source told Reuters on Monday.

According to BP’s website, In

Salah started production in 2004 from the Krechba, Teguentour and Reg fields. In February, it announced the start up of development of the Gour Mahmoud, In Salah, Garet el Befinat and Hassi

Armed fighters Meanwhile, Algerian troops killed six armed fighters in the country’s southeast near the Tunisian border, and captured arms and munitions, the ministry of defence said on Monday.

They were killed in El Oued, and Kalashnikov rifles, handguns and ammunition were recovered from two off-road vehicles, the ministry said in a statement.

Algeria and Tunisia cooperate in security along their frontier, where a small group of fighters from Al the Qaeda-linked Okba Ibn Nafaa brigade operates in Tunisia’s Chaambi mountains.

Militants are suspected to have fled there after French troops intervened in 2013 in response to an insurgency in Mali, which borders Algeria to the north.

A war with militants killed 200,000 people in Algeria in the 1990s, since when the country has been relatively peaceful. But Al Qaeda’s North Africa branch and IS continue to operate in remote pockets of the country. — Reuters

2022 SOCCER TOURNEY

Qatar mulls to house World Cup fans in Bedouin-style tents DOHA: Qatar may house thousands of football fans in Bedouinstyle tents in desert areas close to stadiums during the 2022 World Cup as tumbling oil prices have forced the Gulf country to delay projects, including building hotels.

Most of the expected 500,000 fans are expected to stay in hotels and apartments but contrary to Qatar’s World Cup bid in 2010, when it said it would create more than 55,000 rooms, authorities said in January that 46,000 rooms

would be ready. FIFA’s requirement was for 60,000 rooms to be available. Organisers are holding up the tent idea as a creative and culturally authentic way for Qatar to meet FIFA requirements.

Hospitality “At the heart of this World Cup is a commitment to showcase the hospitality and friendship of the Middle East. As a result, we are actively researching the concept of supporters sleeping under the

stars,” a spokesperson for Qatar’s World Cup Supreme Committee told Reuters without giving further details.

Expenditure Since winning its bid, Qatar has spent tens of billions of dollars on upgrading infrastructure and has built scores of hotels and apartment complexes but some projects have stalled including a $12 billion bridge and underwater tunnel link across Doha bay and building at

least two hotels in the capital.

A Supreme Committee spokesperson said Qatar was on track to deliver the minimum number of hotel rooms required by FIFA. Desert camping, a popular winter activity for Qataris, who are known for assembling luxurious sites among the sand dunes, could also help allay concerns about thin occupancy after the event, analysts say.

Qatar is still debating how to best balance the country’s cultural

values with FIFA’s requirements for the tournament.

Private letting services Qatar is also looking at promoting private letting services such as Airbnb and putting up spectators on cruise ships docked along the coast, a government official said.

If fans choose to stay in neighbouring countries, such as the UAE and Bahrain - where hotel rooms may be more readily available - and fly in to watch matches,

that could further reduce a potential strain on accomodation.

Some Qataris are critical of the furious pace at which World Cup construction is happening.

“In the past five years the number of hotel rooms has doubled, now they are looking at doubling them again,” one former Qatari diplomat said. “People are asking: ‘How sustainable is this?’, ‘Once the cup is over what do we, as Qataris, really need with all these hotels?’” — Reuters

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INDIA

G OV E R N M E N T F O R M AT I O N

NC favours mid-term polls over horse-trading in J&K: Omar JAMMU: In the backdrop of the stalemate in Indian-administeredKashmir, former chief minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called on Governor N. N. Vohra but ruled out National Conference providing an alternative saying his party would rather prefer mid-term elections than indulging in “horsetrading”.

He, however, said nobody wants mid-term polls, but if a government is not formed, then election is the only way out.

Last ditch effort “There is an effort right now to gather support independent of Mehbooba Mufti. I think rushing to Delhi is Mehbooba Mufti’s last ditch effort to save her party because she realises if she does not form the government on the terms and conditions set by BJP, her party will split and if her party splits then she will be in a much weaker position than she is today. So she is trying to save her party,” Omar told reporters after meeting Vohra at Raj Bhawan.

“I hope she meets the prime minister and the government is

Don’t look towards us for an alternative. Jammu and Kashmir has not come out of what happened in 1984.

I am not in favour of 20-25 people splitting PDP and forming another party. I am not in favour of that Omar Abdullah

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir

formed so that we can take the role of an effective opposition party.

“We have prepared ourselves for the role of opposition for six years,” the working president of NC said.

Governor’s Rule was imposed in the state on January 8 after the death of chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed.

Omar also said he would never prefer horse trading to end the

stalemate. “Don’t look towards us for an alternative.

“Jammu and Kashmir has not come out of what happened in 1984. I am not in favour of 20-25 people splitting PDP and forming another party. I am not in favour of that,” he said.

“I met the governor after quite a long time. We discussed about the situation in the state, about the

budget,” he said, adding “If PDP cannot take support from Congress, then the governor should dissolve the Assembly and order fresh elections.”

Stalemate But he hoped a new government is formed and the state is saved from fresh elections.

“My request to Peoples Demo-

cratic Party is to take a final call and not to continue the stalemate.

It’s not that we want to force fresh elections on the state,” he said.

According to him, the governor is “waiting for the day” when PDP and BJP would come and stake claim to form the government.

Omar also alleged BJP was breaking parties in states.

“Now BJP or elements attached to BJP are breaking parties. We have seen this type of government formation by horse trading in Arunachal Pradesh and another attempt is now made in Uttarakhand,” he claimed.

He said Jammu and Kashmir has “paid a very heavy price for this sort of splitting of parties: “If 1984 had not happened, Jammu and Kashmir would not have been a victim of militancy today,” he said, adding “I would be the last person to favour any sort of government that is made by breaking up of political parties.”

He also took a dig at PDP and Bharatiya Janata Party saying both the parties have been holding discussions for the past two-anda-half months and PDP has not

BJP destabilising Rawat’s government, says Congress said it was trying to topple state governments, and his party would fight this “demagoguery with democracy”.

Congress leader Kapil Sibal said the Centre is misusing its power.

They want to repeat their Arunachal Pradesh experiment in Uttarakhand.

This is a new model of democracy and nationalism RECEIVING MEMORANDUM: President Pranab Mukherjee receives a memorandum from members of

Congress delegation at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday. - PTI

NEW DELHI: Congress on Monday appealed to President Pranab Mukherjee to ensure upholding rule of law in Uttarakhand, saying the party’s duly elected government was being “destabilised” through “unconstitutional means” by the Centre and the BJP. “Any attempt by the Union government at the behest of the BJP to impose President’s Rule would be ex facie illegal. Resort to Article 356 of the Constitution... would be a mockery,” a high level delegation of senior Congress leaders including A. K. Antony and Ghulam Nabi Azad told the President.

The delegation also comprised Kapil Sibal, Ambika Soni and Motilal Vora.

Horse trading The leaders said such a move would also allow the ruling dispensation at the Centre and the BJP “in tandem to manufacture a

majority through horse trading”.

“The Centre is misusing its power. They want to repeat their Arunachal Pradesh experiment in Uttarakhand. This is a new model of democracy and nationalism,” Sibal said. In a memorandum they also complained to the President that attempts are being made to persuade the governor to advance the session.

“The government is trying to persuade the governor to advance the session to render proceedings under the Xth Schedule (antidefection law) infructuous. This is also a Constitutional impropriety,” they told the president.

They said that the governor has advised the chief minister to prove his strength on the floor of the House on March 28.

“On March 28, the CM will prove on the floor that he has the

requisite support of the majority of members of the Legislative Assembly,” the memorandum said.

“The date for proving majority was set on March 28. Now, the BJP is trying to put pressure through the Centre and get the date advanced,” Azad said.

Soni alleged that MLAs were being taken without their “will” and paraded before the governor and raised doubts about the security of Congress legislators.

“The BJP, by using the Centre, is trying to dislodge the duly elected Congress governments,” Azad added.

When asked whether the passage of the Money Bill in the Uttarakhand Assembly was valid, Sibal said, the decision on this was taken by the Speaker under his powers.

“The Speaker had already de-

cided about the Finance Bill,” Azad said.

Allegations Meanwhile, in the wake of the Uttarakhand crisis, Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu on Monday refuted Congress’s allegations that the Centre was trying to topple state governments, and said the opposition was the “mother of defections”.

Nine rebel Congress MLAs, along with BJP members, voted against the ruling party in Uttarakhand, putting the fate of the government in crisis. The state governor has asked Chief Minister Harish Rawat to prove majority even as the BJP has staked claim to form the government.

Attacking the Narendra Modi government, Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi had on Sunday

Mother of defections Mounting a counter attack, Naidu said, “Congress is the mother of defections in the country. What they are saying is that if somebody goes to their party from other parties, they call it affection. If Congress people go out of their party, they say it is defection.”

Claiming that Congress, when ruling at the Centre, had imposed President’s rule around 90 times, Naidu told the opposition party “not give us sermons”.

“We do not believe in politics of defection. We believe in democracy, and in democracy, people are free to choose their party,” he said.

Naidu listed out instances where Congress had toppled state governments “umpteen number of times”, right from Kerala to sensitive states like Kashmir, starting way back in 1959.

“The Congress government at the Centre dismissed E M S Namboodiripad’s first democratically-elected Left government in Kerala, despite its majority in the Legislative Assembly in 1959.

“In 1984, NTR-led TDP government was toppled despite having the majority and a puppet of Congress was made chief minister.

“Karunanidhi’s government in Tamil Nadu was dismissed on January 31, 1976, by the Indira Gandhi government, after he challenged the imposition of Emergency in 1975”, Naidu said.

With a week to go for the trial of strength in Uttarakhand, Congress on Monday expelled former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna’s son Saket and another leader for “anti-party” activities. - PTI

asked for anything new.

“If you are not asking anything new, if this is only a misunderstanding, if the dialogue with Amit Shah was successful then why we have to wait for the formation of the government,” Omar asked.

So indecisive “That is why I said if she (Mehbooba Mufti) is so indecisive as party president and God forbids she sits in the Secretariat and has to take decisions about the state, what will she do,” he further asked.

On land being vacated by Army in the state, he dismissed a political motive behind it as the decision was taken by the governor.

“Don’t colour the decision of Raj Bhavan with politics. If for this decision the government formation was delayed then it would have been formed by now because they were waiting for PM’s invitation after this decision,” he said.

“Whether this decision is good or bad we can discuss it later. I don’t feel that Raj Bhavan took this decision so that Mehbooba Mufti could form the government,” Omar said. - PTI NARADA NEWS

TMC stung again, new videos of sting operation out KOLKATA: In what could cause further embarrassment for the Trinamool Congress(TMC), Narada News on Monday published a new set of videos of its sting operation in which two prominent leaders of West Bengal’s ruling party were purportedly caught on tape -one of them accepting money, and the other seeking a “benami” stake in a project.

The Trinamool rejected the allegations, terming it “dirty political vendetta”.

In the latest videos, the website claimed Trinamool Lok Sabha member from Arambagh Aparupa Poddar accepted money, while former party state general secretary Shanku Deb Panda sought a “benami stake” in the fictitious company in return for his help.

While Poddar rubbished the charges, Panda couldn’t be reached for comment.

The news portal, which claims to have 52 hours of footage of the operation, on March 14 had uploaded a 24-minute video, in which as many as 11 Trinamool leaders were shown accepting bundles of cash in return for favours to a fictitious company Impex Consultancy. In the garb of the firm, the portal claimed to have approached several ministers and Trinamool leaders seeking favours.

The authenticity of the videos could not be ascertained.

“I want a stake in the subject... I will tell the name in whose name the stake has to be,” Panda is seen saying in the video on the site naradanews.com. The Trinamool rejected the allegations.

“This is nothing but dirty political vendetta. This is cheap politics of black money and blackmailing,” Trinamool’s chief spokesperson Derek O’Brien said on Monday. -IANS

THIRD INCIDENT

Deonar dumping ground fire doused, civic body suspects sabotage MUMBAI: The fire that broke out in Deonar dumping ground on Saturday emitting toxic gases causing serious health concerns in areas in Eastern suburb was doused on Monday, which the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) suspects to be an act of “sabotage”.

“Prima facie it looks like an act of sabotage and the municipal corporation has filed a case with the police against unknown person,” Municipal Commissioner Ajoy Mehta told reporters here, adding that previous two fire incidents at the same spot could also be the acts of sabotage. He said the blaze, which has been raging since Saturday, was extinguished on Monday morning and cooling operations are on at the site.

The latest fire was third such incident at the largest dumping facility in the city since January.

Mehta said in a bid to overcome the menace, wherein such incidents occurring frequently at the Deonar facility, the entire

132 hectare area would be declared as “prohibited zone” and the night vision cameras would be installed there.

Environmental concerns Meanwhile, Union Environment Ministry has taken a serious note of the blaze which gave rise to environmental concerns resulting into poor air quality.

Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar has said a two-member special team will be sent to investigate the incident. Mehta said the MCGM wants a permanent solution to such incidents.

“We want restricted and disciplined entry into the premises (of dumping ground) and hence we have decided to declare the entire area as prohibited zone,” he said.

Listing various measures by the municipal corporation to prevent recurrence of such incidents, Mehta said, “We have started constructing a fence around the ground and have beefed up our own security apart from

installing 12 CCTV cameras.

“We would additionally install 40 CCTV cameras with the night mode vision. We have upped our deployment from 102 to 150 security personnel in three batches,” he said.

Mehta said MCGM has started the implementation of “slope stabilisation” to rule out the chances of fire and six hectares of the total area has been covered so far.

“We had asked IIT and NIRI to look into the problem of fire in the (dumping) ground and received their report two days back.

Now, we are in process of going through the report and implement it,” he said.

Mehta said that 10 fire engines would remain stationed at the ground in a standby mode.

Even as cooling operations are underway at the dumping yard, toxic smoke engulfed Govandi’s Shivaji Nagar, some parts of Mankhurd and Zakir Hussain Nagar and Baiganwadi area, causing discomfort to locals. - PTI

BILLOWING SMOKE: A rag picker collects recyclable material as smoke billows from the burning gar-

bage at the Deonar dumping ground in Mumbai, on Monday. - Reuters

A10

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

INDIA

A critical appraisal of the functioning of RTE reveals that large gaps exist in its implementation.

Even with the increasing primary enrolment rates, India has the largest number of out-of-school children in the world which is more than the out of school children in the whole of sub-Sahara Africa Hamid Ansari, Vice president

M I S A P P R O P R I AT I O N O F F U N D S

Court seeks balance sheet of Congress party in Herald case NEW DELHI: A Delhi court on Monday directed the Congress party to submit its balance sheet for the year 2010-2011 in compliance with its order in the National Herald case in which Congress President Sonia Gandhi, her son Rahul and five others are accused.

The court’s direction came after the counsel appearing for Indian National Congress (INC) informed it that the party needed time to follow the March 11 order by which the documents were sought.

Metropolitan Magistrate Lovleen, after hearing the submissions, posted the matter for April 8 for the next hearing on the plea of BJP leader Subramanian Swamy.

The counsel, Badar Mahmood, said the court summons were received only on March 19 and added that there was lack of clarity about the year of which the documents pertain to.

“Summons were not clear as to whether it was for 2010, 2011 or for both,” the counsel said.

A Congress office peon, who appeared in the court, also said that no office-bearer of the party office was present on Saturday to give the documents.

In its March 11 order, the court had also summoned the balance sheet of 2010-2011 of Associated Journals Pvt Ltd (AJL), observing that these documents of INC and AJL could not be referred as “personal documents” of the accused.

However, the counsel appearing for AJL, on Monday submitted before the court that the documents summoned by the court are already in the court records which were verified by the officials from the Registrar of Companies who were summoned thrice during recording of pre-summoning evidence.

“We are taken for a ride. The documents summoned are already

HEARING: Congress President Sonia Gandhi and party Vice Presi-

dent Rahul Gandhi leave the Patiala House Courts after a hearing in National Herald Case in New Delhi, recently. - PTI file photo

on the record of the court. Its only for the purpose of publicity that the complainant has filed this complaint as he has been ‘tweeting’ about this case from his social networking account Twitter,” senior advocate R. S. Cheema, appearing for AJL said, while show-

ing some of Swamy’s tweets to the court.

Swamy had accused Sonia, Rahul and others of allegedly conspiring to cheat and misappropriate funds by just paying Rs5 million by which YI obtained the right to recover Rs900.25 million

which the AJL had owed to the Congress party.

In his present plea, Swamy had sought summoning of balance sheet, receipts and payments accounts, income and expenditure statements for the year 2010-2011, 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 of INC and AJL. During the hearing, however, Swamy said that Registrar of Company officials were summoned earlier just to verify who were the directors in AJL during the relevant period and not for the purpose of verifying the balance sheets.

In his plea, Swamy had told the court that these records were necessary to establish the method adopted by the accused for purpose of extending loans to acquire AJL, through Young Indian Pvt Ltd (YI).

Swamy had initially sought summoning of documents of Young Indian Pvt Ltd (YI) also, but

Modi accuses opponents of spreading lies on reservation Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that quota is the ‘right’ of the Dalits and the underprivileged that nobody can snatch

NEW DELHI: Making it clear that there will be no change in the reservation policy for Dalits, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday asserted that nobody can snatch their right even as he accused his opponents of spreading “untruths” on the issue.

Modi also compared Constitution architect B. R. Ambedkar to Martin Luther King who had fought for the rights of blacks. Delivering the Ambedkar Memorial Lecture here, Modi said, “Nothing has ever happened to the reservation for Dalits, tribals, when we are in power but still lies are being spread to mislead people.

“When Vajpayeeji became PM, a campaign was run saying reservation will be abolished. He was the prime minister for two terms and nothing of that sort happened.

ARTIST’S IMPRESSION: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the foundation stone laying ceremony of Dr B. R. Ambedkar National Memorial in New Delhi on Monday. - PTI

“BJP has ruled in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab, and Haryana for many years and the quota policy never suffered a scratch. Yet untruths are being spread. People, who are only interested in doing politics, fail to come out of it,” Modi said.

Asserting that quota is the “right” of the Dalits and the underprivileged that nobody can snatch,

the prime minister noted, “As I had said earlier also that even if Ambedkar appears today, he cannot snatch this very right of yours.

What are we before Baba Saheb”.

Targeted Laying the foundation stone for Ambedkar National memorial, the prime minister targeted his political opponents accusing them of

“spreading confusion and lies” on the issue and rued that while its “serves their politics”, such things “weaken” the social fabric of the nation. The prime minister’s renewed pitch on reservation comes ahead of assembly polls in five states — West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry beginning next month.

He repeatedly questioned “why

it took 60 years” to do it and reminded that Ambedkar as law minister had to resign from Jawaharlal Nehru’s cabinet owing to lack of backing on the Hindu Code Bill that was a progressive move aimed to codify and reform Hindu personal law in India by giving the women equal rights in many spheres like property.

Terming it “injustice” to call Ambedkar only a messiah of Dalits, the prime minister said that he was the voice of all marginalised sections and was a “Vishwa Manav” (global personality) and likened him to civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King.

Linking the waterways bill brought by his government in Parliament with Ambedkar’s views on India’s maritime strength, Modi said no work on it happened in last 60 years and the difference is visible “when some bhakta (devotee) of Baba Saheb comes in government”. Training his guns on opponents, he said that it is “indeed difficult to digest defeat”, a swipe at Congress which faired poorly in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.

“Some people don’t like us. They don’t even want to see us. They get fever on seeing us and in fever, one loses control of mind. That is why they say all kinds of lies and all absurd things. Those who did not work for 60 years have given us a chance to do this and we take pride in doing such works like building a memorial at 26 Alipur Road,” he said. - PTI

did not press for it during the arguments later.

On Swamy’s plea, the court had on June 26, 2014, summoned Sonia Gandhi, Rahul, Motilal Vora, Oscar Fernandes, Suman Dubey and Sam Pitroda as accused in the case besides YI. The court had on December 19, 2015, granted bail to Sonia, Rahul, Vora, Fernandes and Dubey, who had appeared before it pursuant to the summons issued earlier.

Pitroda was granted bail on February 20 when he had appeared in the court.

Sonia, Rahul, Vora (AICC Treasurer), Fernandes (AICC General Secretary), Dubey and Pitroda were summoned for alleged offences under section 403 (dishonest misappropriation of property), 406 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating) read with section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC. - PTI G UJA R AT

Cops issue ‘red alert’ on suspicious vehicle movement JAMNAGAR: An alert was on Monday issued in Gujarat’s Jamnagar district by police after they received information regarding suspicious movement of a Sports Utility Vehicle(SUV) in the coastal town of Sikka near here.

The red alert was issued across the district as the police did not want to take chance, after a recent Intelligence Bureau alert regarding entry of 10 terrorists from Pakistan through Gujarat coastal route, Superintendent of Police, Jamnagar, Pradeep Sejul said.

“A local informer told us that a SUV with four persons was moving suspiciously near Sikka town.One person, who was holding a weapon, handed over some bag to a person in a highly suspicious manner.

“Taking no chance given the recent terror alert issued by the central IB, we have issued red alert so that we can put up check points and search vehicles,” Sejul said.

Following the red alert, security check points were set up across the district, especially to monitor the entry and exit of vehicles and search them on ground of suspicion.

Police patrolling was also enhanced, the SP said.

Ahead of ‘Maha Shivratri’, a terror alert was issued in Gujarat which said 10 terrorists had entered the state and their likely target was Somnath temple. - PTI

NAT I O NA L S T O C K- TA K I N G C O N V E N T I O N

Ansari advocates special audit mechanism for Right to Education NEW DELHI: Vice President Hamid Ansari on Monday advocated special audit mechanisms for effective implementation of Right To Education (RTE) Act like in the case of MNREGA and asked states and local education authorities to monitor implementation of the Act “more seriously.”

He also noted that quality of education suffers due to understaffing and lack of training of teachers and emphasised on the need for making teachers’ remuneration more attractive.

Speaking at the national stocktaking convention organised by the Right to Education forum, he said, “Although state education departments and local authorities are responsible for monitoring implementation of the Act, this

responsibility needs to be taken more seriously. There is a need for having special audit mechanisms like in the case of MNREGA”.

He said the RTE will mark six years of coming into force.

“An audit is therefore appropriate particularly to locate deficiencies that exist and chart out a course for the future,” he added.

Noting that teacher’s training is a “neglected area”, he said, “quality of education suffers due to understaffing and lack of training of teachers.

The flow of public funds has so far been focused on developing school infrastructure.”

Quoting an Oxfam India policy report in March 2015, he said the report indicated that over 500,000 sanctioned teacher’s post

Some 350,000 schools have been opened in the last decade and 99 per cent of India’s rural population now have a primary school within a one kilometre radius were lying vacant and more than 660,000 in-service teachers were un-trained. Around 37 per cent of primary schools were found to be non-conformant with the prescribed national pupil-teacher ratio (PTR) norm of 30:1.

Moreover, around 10 per cent of schools across the country remained single teacher schools. according to the report.

The vice president also noted

that teacher absenteeism was rampant in several parts of the country and impacted the disadvantaged students.

Huge disparity Taking note of a huge disparity between urban and rural education and rich and poor children having radically different schooling experiences, he said, “A critical appraisal of the functioning of

RTE reveals that large gaps exist in its implementation. Even with the increasing primary enrolment rates, India has the largest number of out-of-school children in the world which is more than the out of school children in the whole of sub-Sahara Africa.”

The vice president said that despite the shortcomings in its implementation, RTE remains a remarkable achievement that provides access, equity and inclusion for all children. Expressing concern over the decline in state funding in the key social sector programmes, including education, Ansari said that quantity, quality and equality are the three sides of the triangle required to ensure Right to Education. He said in the last six years, RTE Act has shown

promising development.

The government’s budget for the SSA, the main vehicle for the Act’s implementation has increased substantially from Rs12,825 crore in 2009-10 to Rs22,500 crore in 2016-17. Some 350,000 schools have been opened in the last decade and 99 per cent of India’s rural population now have a primary school within a one kilometre radius. A survey in 2014 reported that 84.4 per cent schools now served mid-day meals.

The enrolment of girls has increased slightly from 48.12 per cent in 2009-10 to 48.19 per cent in 2014-15 at the elementary level.

A 55 per cent decline in dropouts was also reported in the age group of 6-14 years from 13.46 million in 2005 to 6.06 million in 2014. - PTI

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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PAKISTAN

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FIA INQUIRY SOUGHT

PTI dissident calls for probe of party’s funding ISLAMABAD: A founding member of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) Akbar S Babar has asked the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to probe charges of money laundering and illegal foreign funding of the PTI on the lines of the inquiry ordered by the interior minister against the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM).

“The interior minister claims to be a man of justice who only acts on evidence. If evidence is all what he needs to start investigations on matters of national security, what is stopping him from initiating investigations against the PTI on an equally serious national security issue?” asked Babar while talking to The Express Tribune on Sunday.

The MQM has also made a similar demand, asking Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar to treat both the cases equally.

ALL FOR A BETTER LIFE

Pakistani migrants are seen onboard a Greek Coast Guard vessel as they arrive at the port of Mytilene on the Greek island of Lesbos, following a rescue operation by the Greek Coast Guard at open sea, on Monday. — Reuters

Babar, a former central information secretary of the PTI, said that the illegal foreign funding case against the PTI was filed in November 2014 with all the evidence which is now part of public record.

Money laundering Imran Khan has publicly accepted money laundering to justify donations to private bank accounts of PTI employees, he added.

Babar went on to say that the matters of national security cannot be resolved on individual preferences.

If the law has been transgressed by the MQM it should be punished. Likewise, by design or otherwise, illegal foreign funding and money laundering by the PTI must also not go unpunished, he added. — Express Tribune

Rangers arrest MQM leader Pasha Karachi-based AntiTerrorism Court was told by the paramilitary force about Muttahida Qaumi Movement’s Rabita Committee Deputy Convener 90-day preventive detention

KARACHI: Rangers personnel arrested from Karachi a Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) office-bearer in a raid early Monday morning.

“Rangers arrested MQM Rabita Committee Deputy Convener Shahid Pasha during a raid at his apartment in the Gulistan-e-Jauhar area of the metropolis,” a statement issued by the party said.

MQM spokesperson Wasay Jalil confirmed Pasha was taken by Rangers into their custody.

Later in the day, the paramilitary force declared Pasha’s arrest, and informed a Karachi-based Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) about the leader’s 90-day preventive detention. He was produced in the court of Justice Syed Mohammad Farooq Shah.

Shahid Pasha

The arrest comes days after MQM leader Dr Farooq Sattar accused the Rangers of torturing and interrogating “40 under-trial prisoners” belonging to the MQM imprisoned at Karachi Central Jail, and “pressuring the workers to leave the party”.

He alleged the workers were being forced to fill out a pro forma and told that they would be allotted every facility in prison, cases against them would be withdrawn and they would be released only if they changed their loyalty.

Pasha was made deputy convener of the Rabita Committee a year ago, and is believed to be an important figure in MQM’s organisational structure.

Leader joins Kamal’s party Meanwhile, deposed MQM leader Anees Ahmed advocate on Monday joined the newly-formed political party of Syed Mustafa Kamal, who blew the whistle on MQM

leader Altaf Hussain in a dramatic two-hour-long press conference earlier this month.

“We welcome Anees Advocate Bhai in this ‘national convoy’,” Kamal told news men during a press conference at his residence in Karachi’s DHA neighbourhood before turning the microphone to advocate.

“The way Mustafa Kamal and other leaders here put things forth and educated them, may I let you know that I joined this organisation three years ago from now,” Anees advocate said.

“I was confident there will come a time when people will break their silence and this change will emerge.”

Ahmed congratulated other for joining Kamal’s fold and speak-

ing up against the ‘injustices’ in the party.

“I dedicated more than 30 years to a man,” he said referring to Altaf.

“I would say this man may live for as long as he can, to find out in the end how he is swept away.

“He’ll have to see for what he did to his people that they pledged association to him but all of that went in vain.”

The MQM leadership had sacked Ahmed, a member of its Rabita Committee in 2012 over alleged misconduct. — Express Tribune

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You cannot replace the ‘questionable morality’ of Altaf Hussain with people who chose to side with him for a good part of the last few decades. The people of this city are conscious enough to realise that what this no-named party is offering is nothing more than a rebranded Muttahida Qaumi Movement

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There’s much private focus on a lame-duck session, which is common after the presidential elections are won by the rival party; it occurred in 1980, 2000 and 2008, and there were some achievements.

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READERS’ FORUM Democracy without education is unlimited hypocrisy This refers to the news Lucky draws, incentives to attract more voters (March 21). Such unscrupulous exercise is a painful experience for anyone owning a sense of belonging where franchise is being turned into a matter of horse-trading even on the threshold of the seventieth anniversary of India’s independence. More importantly, it’s heartbreaking to see, the state with the highest literacy rate in India is going through such Watergates. Such a precedent will trigger unhealthy competition by not participating in the ongoing polls so as to ‘qualify’ as a constituency with below par Scan this QR code polling percentage in the near future. This to send letters to the will strengthen the old saying, democracy Readers’ Forum, without education is hypocrisy without containing not more than 200 words with limitation. — Gautam Ghosh-Dastidar, full name, address Wadi Kabir

CHRISTOPHER FLAVELLE

Global warming presents governments the world over with two problems. One is to slow the pace of climate change.

The other is to adapt to what humans have already wrought, either by protecting buildings and infrastructure from rising tides and extreme weather, or by moving people out of harm’s way

and telephone number, may be sent by e-mail (akhtar@ timesofoman.com).

Cheetah birth operation rare event of human compassion This refers to the story, Five cheetah cubs fight for survival after rare Caesarean section birth (March 21). This report sheds light on one of the rare incidents when humans have shown mercy on other creatures. Mankind is mainly infamous for climate change and wars while saving our own kind and other animals mostly comes as an afterthought. — Zeeshan Bakhtiar, Ruwi

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ANDRE MALRAUX

T

here is no doubt that China’s ongoing growth slowdown has had far-reaching effects on the global economy. But its role in the sharp fall in commodity prices that has occurred since 2014 – an outcome that has been devastating for commodity-exporting countries, including oncedynamic emerging economies – is more limited than the conventional wisdom suggests.

In fact, China’s slowdown is only a part of the commodity-price story. To be sure, there is a clear correlation between Chinese GDP growth and commodity prices. In the early 2000s, when Chinese growth accelerated, commodity prices rose sharply; since China’s slowdown began in 2011, energy prices have fallen by 70 per cent, metals prices by 50 per cent, and agricultural commodity prices by 35 per cent. But the view that China’s slowdown is the main driver of the collapse in commodity prices is incomplete, at best.

As new research by the Asian Development Bank shows, while China plays a significant role in commodity markets – accounting for about half of global consumption of metals, coal, and pork, for example – it is not nearly as dominant as is widely believed.

China accounts for less than one-fifth of world consumption of sugar, wheat, poultry, and beef; 12 per cent of world consumption of crude oil; and 5 per cent of natural gas. And, in fact, some of the commodities that have experienced the largest price declines – most notably, oil (down 73 per cent) and natural gas (down 55 per cent) – are those in which China is a relatively minor player.

Moreover, China’s actual commodity consumption is even lower than the figures suggest. Conventional measures, instead of taking into account cross-border production chains, simply take the sum of a country’s production and net commodity imports to determine its level of consumption. But, for China, a sizeable proportion of the commodities it “consumes” is actually used in the production of goods that will be exported to the rest of the world.

Indeed, almost one-third of Chinese metals demand is used to satisfy export demand. Subtracting the commodities embedded in China’s exported manufactured goods would substantially reduce China’s apparent role in these markets.

A look at the commodity-price fluctuations themselves reinforces this view. Consider copper:

From 2001 to 2006, prices gyrated wildly, with price declines of 30 per cent in some years and increases of 150 per cent in others – all while growth in Chinese industrial production and demand for copper remained relatively steady, at 15 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively.

Clearly, other factors – ranging from supply-side factors and global demand to speculative demand and inventory adjustment – are also playing a major role in driving outcomes in commodity markets. So what does China’s continuing slowdown imply for commodity prices?

Even though China’s growth has moderated since 2011, the country’s commodity-consumption growth still outpaces that of the rest of the world.

As a result, its share in global commodity consumption has been rising. This should not be surprising, given that Chinese GDP growth, though down significantly from its double-digit heyday, remains above 6 per cent. While the shift from an investment-led to a consumption-driven growth model will weaken growth in demand for metals and energy, it will also bring an increase in demand for food products and services, and hence for agricultural commodities. The conclusion is clear: China’s changing economic situation does not spell disaster for commodity exporters.

On the contrary, even if, as many fear, China’s economic growth slows further, its impact on commodity prices will be limited. Bolstering prospects for commodity prices further is the promise that demand in other emerging giants, such as India and Indonesia, will accelerate in the coming years.

The rest of developing Asia’s economy is currently about 4 per cent larger than China’s, and twice as large as China was in 2000, when growth in the country’s commodity demand began to accelerate.

If solid growth in Asia’s other emerging economies continues over the next decade and a half, it will generate commodity demand at least as large as China’s in the boom years.

The drag on commodity prices from China’s growth moderation is real. But the sharp and generalized drop seen in commodity prices should not be laid entirely at China’s feet. Perhaps more important, with the country still importing large volumes of commodities and the rest of developing Asia set to generate a new surge in commodity demand, the prospects for a commodity-price rebound look brighter. - Project Syndicate

CLIPPINGS FROM OUR ARCHIVES MARCH 2001 Majlis holds joint meeting MUSCAT: Majlis Al Shura office yesterday held its sixth ordinary meeting of the year under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Ali Al Qatabi, president of the Shura. The meeting included a joint meeting with the services and development of local communities committee within the context of the office supervision of the activities of the Majlis committees and assisting them in performing their duties and laying down the regulations that organize their works.

The office looked into the committee’s report on its plan for the current period. The office also reviewed two topics presented to it by the economic committee on overfishing and date marketing and the secretariat general report in their regard.

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

1775: British statesman Edmund Burke makes a speech in the House of Commons, urging the government to adopt a policy of reconciliation with America.

PICTOGRAPH

PROPERTIES ISSUED FOR GCC STATES CITIZENS From late 2015 to early 2016

January

224

December

156

November

173

1904 The first colour photograph is published in the London Daily Illustrated Mirror.

1972: The US Senate passes the Equal Rights Amendment. The amendment fails to achieve ratification.

Source National Centre for Statistics and Information

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

ASIA

North Korea should refrain from all provocative actions, including missile launches, which are in clear violation of UN resolutions Sung Kim, US special envoy for North Korea

Suu Kyi not to take post in new Myanmar government He said the reforms would save Myanmar more than $4.1 million and those savings would be spent on healthcare, education and rural development.

“There is no reason for causing unemployment if the government employees take jobs in accordance with existing laws, rules and regulations,” he said.

He did not go into the details.

Most military MPs, who hold a quarter of seats in the parliament, also voted in favour of the changes, results showed.

“I think the military also understands that they (some ministries) are not necessary.

“Their collaboration is an improvement in the parliament,” said Aung Hlaing Win, a lower house NLD lawmaker.

Suu Kyi led the NLD to a landslide win in Mynamar election in November, but a constitution drafted by the former junta bars her from the presidency because her two sons are British citizens, as was her late husband

FIRST ADDRESS: Myanmar President elect Htin Kyaw, right, his wife and member of parliament Su Su Lwin, centre, and member of parliament Myo Aung leave the parliament building after he delivered his first address in Naypyitaw on Monday. - AFP

NAYPYITAW: Myanmar democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi will control the incoming government of her National League for Democracy (NLD) through her position as party leader, a senior official said, indicating she was unlikely to take a formal post in the administration.

The Nobel peace prize laureate led the NLD to a landslide win in a historic election in November, but a constitution drafted by the former junta bars her from the presidency because her two sons are British citizens, as was her late husband.

“Taking positions is not that important any more...In the United States there are many famous lawmakers in the parliament who

are very influential, but they don’t take any position in the cabinet,” Zaw Myint Maung, the NLD’s spokesman and one of its leaders, told Reuters late on Sunday.

“It’s the same here. She will lead the party, so she will lead the government formed by that party,” said Zaw Myint Maung, in the most detailed remarks from the NLD so far on how Suu Kyi plans to wield power.

Other top-level NLD politicians, including Win Htein, her confidant, have likened Suu Kyi’s role to that of Sonia Gandhi, widow of former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. As leader of the Congress party, she dominated the government of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh be-

fore it fell from power in 2014, but held no ministerial position. NLD leaders have derided the constitution as “ridiculous”, and Suu Kyi has pledged to run the country through a proxy president.

Last week, the NLD-dominated parliament elected Htin Kyaw, a close friend and confidant of Suu Kyi, for that role, making him the first head of state since the 1960s who is not a serving or recently retired senior military officer. In the run-up to the November poll, Suu Kyi had made clear she intended to lead the government regardless of whether she was president, but said the Sonia Gandhi comparison was “not quite” accurate.

She has not elaborated since.

Myanmar’s constitution effec-

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tively bars government ministers from party activities, saying that if they belong to a party, they “shall not take part in its party activities during the term of office”.

Remarks Zaw Myint Maung’s remarks appeared to contradict speculation by some diplomats and local media, who said Suu Kyi was poised to become the minister of foreign affairs, a position that would give her a seat on the national defence and security council.

On Monday, Htin Kyaw made his first public speech since being elected, pledging job security for public servants even as the parliament cut the number of ministries by about a third to 21.

Tensions simmering Despite public messages of support and collaboration, behind the scenes tensions between the army and the NLD have simmered in the run-up to the handover of power.

The military questioned the NLD’s presidential and vice presidential picks and openly confronted its MPs over a controversial copper mine project last month.

How the army, which sees itself as the guardian of the constitution, responds to Suu Kyi’s bid to lead from “above the president” remains to be seen.

The document states the president “takes precedence over all other persons” in Myanmar. The NLD government’s term starts on April 1. A parliamentary agenda showed the speaker would unveil the make-up of the cabinet on Tuesday. - Reuters

RISING TENSIONS

North Korea fires five short-range projectiles into sea SEOUL: North Korea fired five short-range projectiles into the sea off its east coast on Monday, South Korea’s military said, amid heightened tension over the isolated country’s nuclear and rocket programmes.

The unidentified projectiles were launched from south of the city of Hamhung and flew about 200km, landing in waters east of North Korea, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

On Friday, North Korea fired two mid-range ballistic missiles into the sea in defiance of tough new UN and US sanctions slapped on the country following nuclear and rocket tests earlier this year.

“North Korea should refrain from all provocative actions, including missile launches, which are in clear violation of UN resolutions,” Sung Kim, the US special envoy for North Korea, told reporters in Seoul when asked about Monday’s firing.

In recent weeks, North Korea has stepped up its bellicose rhetoric, threatening pre-emptive nuclear strikes against Washington and Seoul and firing short-range missiles and artillery into the sea.

The North protests annual ongoing joint US-South Korea military drills.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said last week that the country would soon test a nuclear warhead and ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads in what would be a direct violation of UN resolutions that have the backing of Pyongyang’s chief ally, China. - Reuters

S O F T E S T TA R G E T S F O R M O N E Y L AU N D E R E R S

For bank heist hackers, the Philippines was a handy black hole MANILA: In February 2013, the Philippines was up against a deadline to amend its Anti-Money Laundering Act and get itself off the ‘grey list’ of a global watchdog, and lawmakers were bickering over whether to include casinos under the legislation.

With one day to go, a Congressional committee heard repeated pleas not to hamstring an industry that could rival other Asian gambling hubs by obliging casinos to report suspicious transactions.

Finally, the senator chairing the meeting agreed “with a heavy heart” to exclude them, a transcript of the proceedings shows.

That same senator now heads a panel trying to fathom how $81 million hacked last month from the New York Federal Reserve account of Bangladesh’s central bank wound up with two casinos and a junket operator in the Philippines — and then disappeared.

It is one of the biggest cyber heists in history, and since the money trail has gone cold in the Philippines, the perpetrators may never be identified.

The senator, Teofisto Guingona, said after a public hearing on the case last week that fierce lobbying by the gaming industry over the law had left the Philippines one of the world’s softest targets for money launderers, putting the financial system at serious risk.

“It can wreak havoc on the economy,” he said. “Any money coming in and out of the country will come under scrutiny. People might just say ‘to hell with it, it’s not worth doing business with the Philippines’.”

Remittances The Philippines depends heavily on remittances from workers abroad, which account for about 10 per cent of its GDP. The country’s central bank chief said last week financial markets had shown no signs of distress over the scandal, but added: “We have to recognise there is a risk that is associated with this.”

Unknown hackers breached the computer systems of Bangladesh Bank in early February and attempted to steal $951 million from

MAKING A POINT: Sergio Osmena, one of the Philippine Senators probing the case of money laundering involving the theft of $81 million from the US account of the Bangladesh Bank, reacts during an interview at his office in Makati city, metro Manila, Philippines on Monday. - Reuters

its account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, which it uses for international settlements.

Some attempted transfers were blocked, but $81 million wound up in the Philippines.

Security researchers blamed malware and a faulty printer but said Bangladesh central bank of-

LARGEST LIVING ECOSYSTEM

Australia scientists alarmed at fresh Great Barrier Reef coral bleaching SYDNEY: Australian scientists managing the Great Barrier Reef have lifted their emergency response to the highest level following the publication of video footage of damage caused by coral bleaching.

Authorities this month said that areas of the World Heritage site were experiencing the worst bleaching in 15 years, at least partially as a result of the current El Nino, one of the strongest in two decades.

Coral bleaching is a process by which coral expels living algae, causing it to calcify. Coral can only survive within a narrow band of ocean temperature.

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority on Sunday said it was lifting its response to level three, authority chairman Dr Russell Reichelt said.

“A level-three response level means we’re stepping up surveys in response to the coral mortality to help us better understand the effects of various pressures on the reef and help guide management

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EMERGENCY: Environmental

groups on Monday urged greater action on climate change after the government declared the highest alert level over an epidemic of coral bleaching in the pristine northern reaches of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

- AFP/XL Catlin Seaview Survey

actions,” Reichelt said in a statement. The footage, shot on Saturday by the University of Queensland’s CoralWatch group, has raised serious concerns amongst scientists and environmental groups about the growing impact of climate change.

“The new video and stills are very concerning and show large

sections of coral drained of all colour and fighting for survival,” World Wildlife Fund spokesman Richard Leck said in a statement.

“This is the worst coral bleaching event ever to hit this most pristine part of the Great Barrier Reef.” Scientists said the Great Barrier Reef needs a break in El Nino conditions within weeks if some coral areas are to survive, but the Australian Bureau of Meteorology’s most recent forecast calls for a continuation of El Nino conditions.

This year will be the hottest on record and 2016 could be even hotter due to El Nino, the World Meteorological Organisation has said. The Great Barrier Reef stretches 2,000km (1,200 miles) along Australia’s northeast coast and is the world’s largest living ecosystem. - Reuters

ficials were also responsible because of weak security procedures.

The bank’s governor and two deputy governors quit their jobs over the scandal last week.

Bangladesh said on Saturday it had formally sought the assistance of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. Public hearings on

the heist in the Philippines’ Senate last week focused on the manager of a Manila branch of Rizal Commercial Banking Corp (RCBC).

Her bank received the stolen money on February 4 and transferred it to a foreign exchange broker who passed it on in tranches, including $30 million in banknotes that officials say would have weighed 1,500kg. A colleague of the manager testified he saw her drive off in her car with 20 million pesos ($431,000) in cash from one of several fictitious accounts to which the money was wired.

The branch manager declined to give evidence in public. According to an Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) document seen

by Reuters, on February 8 Bangladesh Bank sent RCBC several messages via the SWIFT interbank communications network requesting transactions be stopped and the funds returned.

However, five withdrawals were made from the accounts in 73 minutes the next morning. When RCBC responded to the SWIFT message later that day, all that

remained of the $81 million was $68,305.

RCBC President Lorenzo Tan told the Senate he could not discuss what happened because of the country’s bank deposit secrecy law, one of the world’s strictest and a legacy of the martial-law era of president Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s. “Prevention of ... money laundering is being hampered by the very strict bank deposit secrecy law,” central bank Governor Amando Tetangco told reporters.

“Once the funds go into a bank deposit account, that’s it. The trail turns cold.” Sergio Osmena, another senator probing the bank heist, has pressed for years to amend the bank laws. He made no headway, he said, because secrecy suits businesses that want to evade taxes and can bribe lawmakers to resist legislative change.

“I am quite happy that a scandal like this has happened,” Osmena said, explaining he believes the Bangladesh case is the tip of an iceberg alerting people to hundreds of money laundering crimes going unreported every year. - Reuters

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BREAKING ICE: US President Barack Obama, left, and Cuban President Raul Castro meet at the Revolution Palace in Havana on Monday. – AFP

Obama, Raul hold historic talks Castro and Obama stood shoulder to shoulder while a military band played the Cuban national anthem and then the US anthem, and then they walked past a military honour guard

HAVANA: US President Barack Obama and President Raul Castro held historic talks in Havana on Monday, discussing enduring disagreements over Cuba’s human rights record and Washington’s trade embargo as the two countries took another stride away from Cold War-era animosity.

Obama arrived in Cuba on Sunday for the first visit by a US president in almost 90 years, achieving a goal for his final year in office that became possible after secret talks led to a 2014 agreement to normalise relations.

The opening ended decades of US efforts to force Cuba to change through isolation. But Obama is under pressure from critics at home to push Castro’s government to allow political dissent and to further open its Soviet-style staterun economy. Obama began his first full day in the symbolic heart of Cuba’s Communist system, starting in Revolution Square, where for decades Raul Castro’s brother, Fidel Castro, led millionstrong rallies against the evils of US “imperialism.”

Obama laid a wreath at the memorial to independence hero Jose Marti, overlooked by a huge metal portrait of legendary rebel fighter Ernesto “Che” Guevara.

Great honour “It is a great honour to pay tribute to Jose Marti, who gave his life for independence of his homeland.

His passion for liberty, freedom, and self-determination lives on in the Cuban people today,” Obama wrote in a guest book there. Marti was a 19th century poet and writer whose activism helped spur Cuba’s freedom from Spain and whose legacy was later adopted by Fidel Castro’s revolutionaries as a symbol of anti-imperialism.

Obama then moved on to the adjacent Palace of the Revolution,

GUARD OF HONOUR: Cuban President Raul Castro, left, and US President Barack Obama, review Cuban soldiers during a ceremony for Obama at the ‘Palacio de la Revolucion’ in Havana on Monday. – Reuetrs

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where the Castros have led Cuba’s resistance to US pressure going back decades. A US presidential visit to the inner sanctum of Cuban power was unthinkable before Obama and Raul Castro’s rapprochement in December 2014.

Obama and Castro have met three times before, but Monday’s meeting was set to be the most substantial as the two men move on from last year’s restoration of diplomatic ties and attempt to rebuild the bilateral relationship.

Inside the palace, Castro and Obama stood shoulder to shoulder while a military band played the Cuban national anthem and then the US anthem, and then they walked past a military honour guard.

Castro was all smiles as he greeted Obama. But he has said Cuba will not waver from its 57-year-old revolution. Government officials say the United States needs to end its economic embargo and return the Guantanamo Bay naval base to Cuba before the two countries can enjoy normal relations.

Monday’s formal ceremony contrasted with Obama’s lower key arrival on Air Force One in Havana on Sunday. Castro did not meet the plane and there were no military honours.

Critics of Obama have accused him of rewarding Havana prematurely. “Freedom can come to Cuba, but it cannot happen by

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enriching and empowering the dictatorship,” Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz, a Cuban-American US senator from Texas, said in a tweet.

Obama is expected to encourage more economic reforms and greater access to the Internet for Cubans during the talks.

Ahead of his meeting with Castro, Obama announced a deal that Google has reached with the island. “One of the things that we’ll be announcing here is that Google has a deal to start setting up more Wi-Fi and broadband access on the island,” Obama told ABC News in an interview that aired on Monday. He gave no other details, and representatives for Google could not be immediately reached.

His administration hopes changes might also come at a Communist Party congress next month, but doubts any political opening will be forthcoming.

Cuban police backed by hundreds of shouting pro-government demonstrators broke up a Ladies in White march on Sunday, detaining dozens of people just hours before Obama landed.

Obama has urged Congress to rescind the 54-year-old embargo but has been rejected by the Republican leadership.

He now has both Democratic and Republican elected officials with him on his Cuba trip and hopes Congress may act after the

November 8 presidential election.

Asked about the potential for US companies to lose out to other countries in the Cuban market, Obama told ABC: “There’s no doubt that we still have some work to do, and part of that is bringing an end to the embargo that is currently in place.” While it may not happen during his final year in office given the US presidential election, “it is inevitable,” he added.

Thwarted by Congress on the embargo, Obama has instead used his executive authority to take a series of steps loosening restrictions on trade and travel with the Caribbean island.

Cuba has praised those measures but Castro will likely use Monday’s meeting to press Obama to go further.

“We think the US government can take more steps to send clear and direct signals in this direction,” Foreign Trade Minister Rodrigo Malmierca told reporters on Sunday.

The US Treasury Department on Sunday granted hotel group Marriott permission to do business in Cuba, adding to the list of US companies allowed to sidestep the embargo. Marriott said it wants to build a hotel on the island but does not yet have a deal.

Obama and Castro met for half an hour during a regional summit in Panama last April and they also had a brief encounter at Nelson Mandela’s funeral in 2013 and at longer meeting at the UN General Assembly last September.

Besides meeting Castro, Obama also plans to visit a state-owned micro brewery and attend a state dinner on Monday. — Reuters

WARM SMILE: US President Barack Obama smiles during a wreath-

laying ceremony at Jose Marti monument in the Revolution Palace of Havana. – AFP

PAYING TRIBUTE: US President Barack Obama signs a visitors’ book at the Revolution Palace in Havana on Monday. – AFP

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016 73 per cent of Russian voters said they trusted Vladimir Putin, down from 83 per cent in the same polling series a year before, while 19 per cent said they did not trust him, up from 14 per cent

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WORLD

Turkey battling ‘terrorist wave’ Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said state is fighting terrorist organisations and the forces behind them with everything at its disposal

OPINION POLLS

‘Putin’s trust rating among Russians drops 10% in a year’ MOSCOW: Vladimir Putin’s trust rating among ordinary Russians has fallen by 10 per cent in the past year even though the numbers who want to see him re-elected as president have grown, two opinion polls showed on Monday.

According to one poll, by the independent Levada Center, 73 per cent of voters said they trusted Putin, down from 83 per cent in the same polling series a year before, while 19 per cent said they did not trust him, up from 14 per cent.

The pollster did not offer an explanation for the apparent slip in Putin’s trust rating, which remains stratospheric by Western standards. He has capitalised on conflicts in Ukraine and Syria to boost his popularity and his message that Russia is again a force to be reckoned with on the world stage has gone down well with voters.

However, the Russian economy is in a sharp slowdown, made worse by Western sanctions imposed on Russia over the Ukraine conflict, and millions of Russians have seen their household income fall in real terms.

Liberal opposition politicians say any poling data concerning Putin is unfairly boosted by the fact that state TV, where most Russians get their news, affords Putin blanket and favourable coverage while largely ignoring them. Putin is widely expected to contest the next presidential election in 2018. If he won, it would be his fourth term as president.

Another Levada poll, conducted last month, suggested more Russians were ready to reelect Putin now than a year ago, despite his falling trust rating.

That poll said 65 per cent of Russians said they wanted to see Putin re-elected as president, up from 57 per cent in the same polling series the year before.

A survey by a state-run pollster earlier this month gave him sharply higher numbers, suggesting that public support for Putin to serve another term as president had hit its highest level in four years.

The first Levada poll was conducted from March 11-14 and surveyed 1,600 Russians across the country. The second poll was carried out from February 19-24 with the same number of voters. — Reuters C I N C I N NAT I Z O O

‘Five Cheetah cubs fight for survival’ NEW YORK: Five cheetah cubs are fighting for their lives after being delivered prematurely at a Cincinnati zoo by a Caesarean section, a procedure seldom performed during the birth of the endangered cats.

The cubs, born earlier this month, have weak immune systems and are unable to actively ward off infections, said Mark Campbell, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden’s director of animal health. The three males and two females are receiving around-the-clock critical care, which involves bottle feeding every three hours, Campbell said in a statement on Friday. — Reuters

ISTANBUL: President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday Turkey would use all its military and intelligence might to battle “one of the biggest and bloodiest terrorist waves in its history”, after a suicide bomber killed three Israelis and an Iranian in Istanbul.

Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon described Turkey as “awash in terrorism”. Turkey’s main opposition party blamed what it called the government’s “adventure-seeking policies” in the Middle East for turmoil washing across Syria’s borders.

Saturday’s attack on Istiklal Street, a long pedestrian avenue lined with international stores and

foreign consulates, was the fourth suicide bombing in Turkey this year. Two in Istanbul have been blamed on IS, while the two others in the capital Ankara have been claimed by Kurdish militants.

The attacks have raised questions at home and among NATO allies as to whether its security services are overstretched as they fight on two fronts.

“Turkey has recently been facing one of the biggest and bloodiest terrorist waves in its history... Our state is fighting terrorist organisations and the forces behind them with everything at its disposal - its soldiers, police, village guards and its intelligence,” Erdogan said in a

speech in Istanbul. But his critics, including privately some of Turkey’s allies, argue that Erdogan’s focus on battling Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants in the largely Kurdish southeast - a campaign he has repeatedly vowed will continue - comes at the expense of its fight against IS militant group.

Erdogan said the PKK and other groups were working with IS and had turned on Turkey because they had failed to achieve their aims elsewhere in the region. He accused Europe of “two-faced behaviour” for allowing PKK sympathisers to set up a tent near an EU-Turkey summit in Brussels last week. Turkey has seen phases

of civil disorder, a military coup in 1960, and left-right street clashes in the 1970s and 1980s that triggered two further army interventions. The Kurdish conflict has also caused widespread bloodshed, but rarely has a Turkish government faced such serious domestic conflicts simultaneously.

Turkey is part of a US-led coalition against IS in Syria and Iraq, but is also fighting PKK separatists in its southeast, where it sees an upsurge in violence since July as fuelled by the territorial gains of a Kurdish militia in Syria. Israeli Defence Minister Yaalon said the roots of the violence lay in extremists he said was “flooding the

world”. Government officials deny suggestions that Turkey, long seen

by Washington as a model for democracy but now facing Western criticism over its human rights policies, is not focused on fighting IS. But the main opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP), which has criticised what it sees as a sectarian meddling in Syria, blamed Turkish foreign policy.

“What we are going through now is the result of the (ruling) AK Party’s unstable, contradictory, utopian, adventure-seeking policies in the Middle East,” CHP group deputy chairman Engin Altay told a press conference in parliament. — Reuters

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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in Lesbos to help implement complex deal on refugees as large numbers of migrants still arriving on Greek islands

STRUGGLING TO SURVIVE: A boy sits among tents outside a pas-

senger terminal used as a shelter for refugees and migrants at the Piraeus harbour in Athens on Monday. – AFP

LESBOS (GREECE): Greece appealed to its EU partners on Monday for logistical help to implement a deal with Turkey aimed at stemming the flow of migrants and refugees into Europe as people, many unaware of the tough new rules, continued to come ashore on the Greek islands.

Economically battered Greece, for months at the epicentre of Europe’s biggest migrant crisis since

World War Two, is struggling to mount the massive logistics operation needed to process asylum applications from the many hundreds of migrants still arriving daily along its porous shoreline.

Turkish officials arrived on the Greek island of Lesbos on Monday to help implement the deal, which requires new arrivals from March 20 to be held until their asylum

applications are processed and for those deemed ineligible to be sent back to Turkey from April 4 onwards. “We must move very swiftly and in a coordinated manner over the next few days to get the best possible result,” Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said after meeting EU Migration Commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos in Athens.

“Assistance in human resources

must come quickly.”

Under the EU-Turkey roadmap agreed last Friday a coordination structure must be created by March 25 and some 4,000 personnel - more than half from other European Union member states - deployed to the islands by next week.

However, on Monday, the day after the formal start of an agreement intended to close off the main route through which a million refugees and migrants arrived in Europe last year, authorities said 1,662 people had arrived on Greek islands by 7am (0500 GMT), twice the official count of the day before.

Just after 4:30am on Monday, one coastguard vessel rescued 54 refugees and migrants from the open sea and brought them to the port, some of the 698 arrivals counted in Lesbos.

They staggered down the ramp,

women and children first, one elderly man bundled up in blankets.

“Where are we going?” asked one Syrian woman who was travelling with her husband and daughter.

The arrivals were directed to a coastguard bus that would drive them to the Moria “hot spot”, a centre where new arrivals are being registered and their asylum applications processed.

“We are very tired. I want to go to my family in Sweden,” said Ahmet Bayraktar, a 32-year-old unemployed accountant from Aleppo, Syria. “We’ll try.”

Like others, he was unaware of the new EU-Turkey accord.

Two hours later, just as the run rose above the Aegean Sea, the

same coastguard vessel pulled another 44 people from the water, many of them escaping conflict in Congo and Sierra Leone. One woman cradled a baby just a few months old. They walked silently to the bus for Moria, a sprawling, gated complex of prefabricated containers and hard tents.

Before Friday’s deal, migrants and refugees had been free to wander out of the camp and head to ferries to the Greek mainland, from where they would mostly head north through the Balkans towards wealthier western Europe, especially Germany. Now, new arrivals are supposed to be held in centres pending the outcome of their asylum applications. — Reuters

C U T - T H R O AT P R I C E WA R

READY TO TAKE ON STREETS: Taxis are seen parked near the National Monument as their drivers take part in a protest against what they say is unfair competition from ride-hailing services, in Jakarta, Indonesia on March 14, this year. – Reuters

Indonesian taxi drivers to rally for ban on online transport apps JAKARTA: Thousands of Indonesian taxi drivers will take to the streets of the capital on Tuesday for a protest rally to demand the government prohibits ride-hailing apps like Grab and Uber, as a price war intensifies.

The proliferation of cheap taxis using ride-sharing apps Go-Jek, Grab and Uber has made the traditional pick-up and dropoff taxi services unprofitable, threatening the business models of the country’s top taxi firms PT Blue Bird and Express Transindo Utama. “Online transport apps have destroyed some local taxis, mainly the small players,” said Andre Djokosoetono, director of Blue Bird, the country’s largest taxi operator.

“We are fighting to make sure everyone is treated fairly and there aren’t any players disadvantaged by these apps.”

The Transportation Ministry has asked that the taxi-hailing apps be banned since they are not registered as public transport.

But the Communications Ministry, which oversees the app operators, has said the firms can go on operating.

Nasihin, a taxi driver for Express, said he used to earn about 250,000 rupiah ($20) a day in salary before the arrival of the ridehailing apps.

Now he struggles to bring home a steady income. “Tomorrow, I have to go to the protest because what they are doing is illegal,” he said. “Taxi drivers are getting very angry.”

The mobile apps have shaken up the market, sparking a cutthroat price war and forcing diversification away from unprofitable taxis into motorcycle taxis.

Below cost Go-Jek and Grab drivers say they regularly offer rides at below cost to grab market share. The two privately held companies declined to provide details on pricing and their financial performances. “A price war is not unusual for the introduction of a businesses like this... as promotions are huge to seize market share,” said Patrick Walujo, co-founder of private equity firm Northstar Group, one

Online transport apps have destroyed some local taxis, mainly the small players. We are fighting to make sure everyone is treated fairly and there aren’t any players disadvantaged by these apps Andre Djokosoetono

Director Blue Bird, taxi operator

of three investment companies that have together provided more than $200 million in funding to Go-Jek. More revenues “Perhaps Grab is hoping it can squeeze us. The reality is that because we offer multiple services and products our drivers generate more revenues, and our investors understand that.”

Both Go-Jek and Grab offer cheap motorbike taxi services.

Go-Jek has capped the cost of a motorbike ride at 15,000 rupiah ($1.15) anywhere in Jakarta. Last week, Grab gave first-time users up to 20 free rides.

Both firms say they have the biggest share of the motorcycle taxi business in the city of about 10 million people.

“This is a growth stage where we really focus on expanding the market by investing to reach a large number of customers, so we can get large volumes,” Grab’s managing director Ridzki Kramadibrata told Reuters. — Reuters

B

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

MARKE

OMAN CRUDE DROPS Oman Crude May delivery declined by 49 cents to $37.79 per barrel, said Dubai Mercantile Exchange. The average price of Oman Crude (April delivery) stabilised at $30.23 per barrel, which was $2.83 higher than March delivery rate. – ONA Muscat 5,376.35 + 27.23 + 0.51%

Dubai 3,378.63 - 7.99 - 0.24%

Abu Dhabi 4,354.83 - 18.71 - 0.43%

Saudi Arabia

6,505.73 + 23.38 + 0.36%

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Kuwait 5,255.54 - 3.58 - 0.70%

Qatar 10,377.16 - 37.49 - 0.36%

Bahrain 1,163.10 - 6.15 - 0.53%

CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

DRAFT RATES (OMR1)*

GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.23 Pound ............................................1.78 Indian Rs ............................. 172.32 Pakistan Rs ........................267.24 Bangla Taka......................200.80

Indian Rs ...................................172.65 Pakistan Rs ..............................271.52 Sri Lanka Rs .................................. N/A Bangla Taka........................... 203.50 Phil Peso ................................... 120.34

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) ...... 16.00

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ..........$37.13 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ..........$37.13 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) .........$40.10 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) .........$36.13 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ..........$41.14

* Rates are as of Mar. 21 Source: Bank Muscat

West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........ $38.97

* Rates as of Mar. 21 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......15.40 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ........... 152.00 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) ............. 142.75 * Rates as of Mar. 21 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

Orpic to contribute 9 per cent to Oman’s GDP after expansion State-owned firm is contributing to Oman’s revenue by refining 20% of the total net crude of 940,000 barrels per day produced by the upstream energy firms in the Sultanate

A. E. JAMES

businesseditor@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: State-owned Oman Oil Refineries and Petroleum Industries Company (Orpic) said that it will contribute $6.5 billion (equivalent to 8 to 9 per cent) to the gross domestic product (GDP) of the Sultanate.

Three large multi-billion dollar ongoing expansion projects — Sohar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex and Muscat-Sohar product pipeline — will immensely contribute to the revenue of Orpic.

These projects are expected to go on stream within four years.

Making a presentation on the achievements of Orpic on Sunday, Dr Hilal Al Hinai, general manN E W R E G U L AT I O N

Foreign banks in Saudi told to disclose finances RIYADH: Saudi Arabia is telling international banks to publicly disclose financial statements for the first time as the kingdom’s regulator seeks to boost transparency.

The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) is requiring financial institutions it regulates to publish the information on their websites from April 1, an official at the Riyadhbased regulator said in an e-mailed response to questions, without giving further information. Banks must also disclose senior executives’ pay and significant risk factors, two people with knowledge of the matter said, asking not to be identified as the matter is private.

The disclosure will give insight into how much money banks are making amid a slowdown in economic growth, as well as the cost of employing top bankers. The country is one of HSBC’s 19 priority growth markets, while Deutsche Bank said it posted its best-ever performance in Saudi Arabia last year. United States banks such as JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs also have a presence in the country, the world’s largest oil exporter, the biggest Arab economy, and home to the region’s largest stock market.

Domestic lenders The only banks which need to disclose financial statements as of now are the 12 publicly traded domestic lenders regulated by the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority. Entities licensed by the CMA, as the investment banking and markets regulator is known, include the units of international banks and the investment-banking and securities arms of local lenders.

The CMA will be ‘more aggressive’ in implementing market rules and pushing for greater transparency, chairman Mohammed Al Jadaan said last year. The CMA started a probe into phone company Etihad Etisalat for suspected violations of rules related to the disclosure of financial information, market manipulation and insider trading last year. - Bloomberg News

ager, corporate support services at Orpic, said that currently the company’s contribution is $4.2 billion, which is equivalent to 5 per cent to the country’s GDP. The primary objective of Orpic’s expansion programmes is to further increase value addition of Oman Crude.

All of Orpic’s strategic expansion projects are progressing as per schedule. The combination of the three projects represents a growth strategy that revolves around increased integration within the manufacturing complex, and the production of a broader slate of petrochemical products that will enable Orpic to extract more value from the oil and gas molecules of the Sultanate.

Orpic is contributing to Oman’s

MASSIVE EXPANSION: Three large multi-billion dollar ongoing expansion projects — Sohar Refinery Improvement Project, Liwa Plastics Industries Complex and Muscat-Sohar product pipeline — will immensely contribute to the revenue of Orpic. – Times fle picture

revenue by refining 20 per cent of the total net crude of 940,000 barrels per day produced by the upstream energy firms in Oman.

Orpic refines the crude at Mina Al Fahal and Sohar refineries, using state-of-the-art technologies.

Mina Al Fahal refinery operated at 92 per cent of its capacity, which is the highest in the last four years.

Referring to Liwa Plastics Industries Complex, Dr Al Hinai said it will be a highly integrated complex,

SOHAR PLANT

Jindal Shadeed set to tap $6 billion steel market in the Gulf MUSCAT: Anticipating pickup in demand in construction and road sector in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Indian industrialist Naveen Jindal feels Jindal Shadeed Iron and Steel (JSIS) with its 1.4 million tonne per annum (MTPA) rebar facility is all set to take advantage of the $6 billion market opportunity in the region.

Jindal Shadeed Iron and Steel, a subsidiary of the steelto-power group Jindal Steel and Power (JSPL), has invested $1.2 billion to set up a 2-MTPA steel melting shop and a 1.4-MTPA rebar mill at the industrial port city of Sohar in Oman.

The firm, which boasts of the third largest steel plant in the GCC, hopes to beat competition from China and other steel-surplus nations to get a significant pie in the region’s $6 billion TMT bars market with the newly inaugurated rebar mill.

The GCC is a political and economic alliance of six nations — Oman, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Steel demand According to market analysts here, GCC requires around 15 million tonnes of steel annually.

The current prices have gone up from $360-380 a tonne to $410-420 per tonne, which is a significant market in the region.

Jindal’s rebar facility gives his firm inroads in this 15 MT market opportunity in the GCC region, of which around 3-4 MT is imported. “Unlike other producers in the region, we have an edge when it comes to the cost of production since this technology would allow us to produce TMT bars directly from the hot metal that comes out from the steel melting shops,” Jindal told reporters here.

He added the company through its specialised products (TMT bars) will get an edge over Chinese export of steel billets.

SOHAR MILL

With the rebar mill in Sohar, Jindal Shadeed can sell TMT bars directly to the customers not just in the GCC region but will also tap the markets in Africa as well as other neighbouring countries

“Having specialised products gives us an edge over imports here of billets from China. We are giving customers here better products,” Jindal noted.

Exports to Europe After acquiring Shadeed Steel and Power in 2010 for $500 million, Jindal, chairman of JSPL, invested another $700 million to set up the steel melting shop and rebar mill. So far, the company has produced billets and other related products to sell them to local steel producers who would use them to produce finished products. It also exports specialised steel products to auto component manufacturers in Europe.

With the rebar mill, Jindal Shadeed can sell TMT bars directly to the customers not just in the GCC region but will also tap the markets in Africa as well as other neighbouring countries.

Jindal hopes to produce other value-added products in the future though he declines to give a time-frame, saying the focus of the company would now be on consolidation.

He said listing of the unit on domestic bourses is also an agenda, but it will all depend upon the market condition, which is somewhat subdued now due to present oil crisis.

The oil crisis has also forced the local governments to cut down investments on developing infrastructure. - PTI

which will help increase plastics production by one million tonnes.

Safety record With over 1,600 employees, Orpic’s safety record continued at an exemplary level. Last year witnessed a record performance in Lost Time Injury (LTI) wherein Orpic had LTI free operations across all plants. While all strategic growth projects performed well, Sohar Refinery Improvement Project

(SRIP) achieved 17 million man hours and Muscat-Sohar Product Pipeline (MSPP) achieved 1 million man hours without LTI. The polypropylene plant completed eight years without LTI, Aromatics Plant completed six years without LTI, Sohar Refinery completed two years without LTI whereas Mina Al Fahal completed one year without LTI. In 2015, Orpic recruited 800 employees and trainees across dif-

ferent functions and departments.

In the Employee Development Index, 491 Omani employees were assigned to perform more complex jobs across both Mina Al Fahal and Sohar refineries.

The company awarded 20 scholarships as part of Orpic Scholarship Programme to bright young Omani students to study in leading universities across the world.

As part of its endeavor to encourage employee development, Orpic not only confirmed 214 trainees, but also launched the Talent Management System.

Orpic’s strategic growth projects will have immediate commercial benefits to the business.

It will have impact in other areas with 300 direct, permanent jobs within the projects, as well as around 2,400 Omani contract roles over the project lifetime.

In the region, 900 indirect jobs will be generated by multiplier effects of LPIC and SRIP on the local economy.

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B2

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

MARKET BRIEFS

Bank Muscat converts bonds MUSCAT: Bank Muscat’s compulsorily convertible bonds (CCBs) issued in 2013 was converted into common equity shares of the bank on March 20, as per the terms of the prospectus. The value of the bonds being converted is OMR30.275 million. The price of the conversion was OMR0.337, which was calculated at a 20 per cent discount to the average closing market price, over the preceding 90 calendar day period prior to the conversion date.

National CEO programme to attract talented executives One of the objectives is to build a pipeline of future Omani chief executive officers to unlock the competitive and sustainable potential of the Sultanate’s private sector

Sembcorp Salalah splits shares MUSCAT: Sembcorp Salalah Company said that its shares have been split into ten equal shares of 100 baisa par value. The decision was taken at an extraordinary general meeting held on March 15.

Synthomer to acquire US firm LONDON: Chemicals maker Synthomer Plc said it would buy US-based HEXION Performance Adhesives & Coatings for $226 million, to grow its presence in the United States and Asia. The firm will fund the deal using existing cash resources and credit. - Times News Service/Agencies

Having well-equipped national leaders who wish to contribute to the growth and development of their organisations will eventually help the sector unlock its true potential and help the nation at large to maximise its economic and social opportunities.

Times News Service MUSCAT: After launching its online application of the second cohort, the National CEO Programme (NCP) has stepped up its efforts to attract talented executives from the private sector.

One of the initiative’s objectives is to build a pipeline of future Omani chief executive officers to unlock the competitive and sustainable potential of the Sultanate’s private sector. Application to the programme is open until March 27.

The NCP is designed to attract nationals from organisations of various sizes across diverse sectors and regions in the Sultanate to build a pipeline of national leaders who are globally competi-

tive and can drive the private sector in scaling new heights. Thus, the selected participants will embark on an enriching learning journey that draws on intellectual and experiential methodologies to deliver impactful learning and offers the opportunity to network with a broad range of leaders and thinkers.

The participants will be exposed to a variety of models, ideas and practical experiences that blend theory with practice. They will also work on strategic breakthrough projects with a focus on diverse economic sectors. Oman has a great potential to grow in significant industries such as tourism, logistics, energy, fisheries, manufacturing and mining at both regional and international

Developing human talent to foresee the challenges and to deal with them at both micro and macro levels was the highlight of this programme Hussain Al Batahari

Chief executive officer Al Bahihi International

levels. By focusing on different sectors, NCP emphasises its goal to play a key role in achieving the economic diversification aspirations of the country and reducing its dependence on the hydrocarbons industry.

Unique design The NCP stands out with its unique design, taking a private sector leader competency framework as the foundation of the programme’s design. Hussain Al Batahari, chief executive officer of Al Bahihi International, Dhofar, in the fishing industry, and member of the NCP’s first cohort, said: “Developing human talents to foresee the challenges and to deal with them at both micro and macro levels was the highlight of this programme. I have gained more experience on structuring the business for increased productivity and aligning the interests of all to create greater success.”

“This programme has given me the confidence to systematically implement better formulas and to compete successfully in the global market. I look forward to seeing more Omani leaders benefitting from this programme which will

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E D UC AT I O N U N I T

ECONOMY

Vietnam economy at risk without reforms: IMF HO CHI MINH: Vietnam risks being vulnerable to external shocks if it doesn’t push through reforms to strengthen its banking system and restructure state businesses, according to International Monetary Fund chief Christine Lagarde.

The Southeast Asian nation is not in a position to withstand economic blows from tightening of monetary policies elsewhere, a deep and prolonged drop in commodity prices and a slowing China without reforms, she said in a March 18 interview in Ho Chi Minh City.

“The risk is that from being slightly vulnerable, Vietnam could become very vulnerable to external shocks,” she said. “It would expose the Vietnamese economy and that would not be good for the Vietnamese population.”

Vietnam’s integration with the global economy has driven growth and reduced poverty. The economy is forecast to grow at 6.6 per cent this year, according to surveys, while Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung has proposed raising the country’s 2016 eco-

help Oman in becoming a major contributor to the global economy,” he added.

Mohammed Sulaiman, Head of Investments and Private Markets, Oman National Investments Development Company, commented, “The programme has been extremely valuable for me in many ways. Firstly, it enabled me to connect with my Omani peers from other organisations.

Secondly, it provided a global platform from which I acquired many new skills and ideas that I can apply in my organisation. Finally, the programme gave me a platform to support my personal learning journey.” “In summary, the programme provided an environment where I could focus on both developing my skills and capabilities and on my personal growth. I am most grateful for the opportunity,” he concluded. Applicants to the National CEO Programme will undergo a rigorous and transparent selection process.

met with the country’s top leaders.

Vietnam, which is in the process of a once-in-five-years political transition, now has one of the world’s most open economies, she said.

CANDID: International Monetary Fund managing director Christine Lagarde said that Vietnam could become very vulnerable to external shocks. – Bloomberg News

nomic expansion target to 7 per cent from 6.7 per cent. The benchmark VN Index of Vietnamese stocks fell 0.6 per cent at the close on Monday local time. The gauge has gained 10 per cent since this year’s low on January 21.

The nation’s poverty rate has dropped to 13.5 per cent from 60 per cent in 1993 and its economic growth is expected to be “solid” at more than six percent this year, Lagarde said in a visit to the country last week, during which she

Remarkable potential “Vietnam has done very well — to have the ability to maintain macroeconomic stability in an environment which is challenging because the rest of the world is not growing at the pace and the potential we would like to see is quite remarkable,” Lagarde said in the interview. “It has done very well in terms of reducing poverty and it has not increased inequality, which often comes with growth.”

Still, the nation’s economic expansion since 2008 has been slower than the two preceding decades and it has failed to match per-capita-income growth that the region’s most successful economies experienced similar stages in development, she said.

Vietnam also needs to make greater use of exchange-rate flexibility to soften the blows of overseas economic shocks and build external reserves, she said. Re-

forming the nation’s state-owned companies (SOEs) and resolving bad debt at banks will offset the aging of its working-age population that could be a future drag on growth, according to Lagarde.

“We believe the banking system needs to be made stronger, better and more capitalized with less stressed assets in its balance sheets so the banks can actually fuel the economy,” Lagarde said.

SOEs need better governance and to refocus on their core businesses, she said.

Public debt The country is also at risk with public debt at about 60 per cent of gross domestic product and with one of the world’s fastest-aging societies and a working-age population that is beginning to decline.

“When you have the combination of high debt and slightly declining working age population, you need to be very careful with your macroeconomic stability,” she said in the interview. “You need to be very careful with the revenue you generate and how you spend it.” – Bloomberg News

Dubai firm plans

overseas initial public offering

DUBAI: Al Masah Capital Management, a Dubai-based investment firm, is considering an initial public offering of its Al Najah Education business in New York or London.

Al Masah plans to start working on the share sale in 2018 and list on the Nasdaq or in the UK capital depending on market conditions, chief executive officer Shailesh Dash said in an interview. Al Najah, set up by Al Masah in 2012, operates schools and nurseries in the United Arab Emirates, Singapore and Oman. He declined to give a potential value.

The investment firm is also planning an IPO of healthcare service provider Avivo Group and plans to list its shares on the London Stock Exchange next year, Dash said. The company expects to raise about $300 million from the sale, he said.

MEED reported earlier this month that Al Masah had hired banks for the Avivo offering.

A number of companies in the UAE are planning to list shares overseas after the plunge in oil sparked a selloff across Gulf Cooperation Council equity markets.

While stock indexes have since recovered some losses, gauges remain highly correlated with crude, the region’s main source of income. Middle Eastern health-care providers, including Abu Dhabi’s Al Noor and NMC Health, both listed shares in London.

- Bloomberg News

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

B3

MARKET INDUSTRIAL UNITS

PEIE seminar to discuss safety, security standards

GCC could become world’s sixth largest economy: EY

Times News Service MUSCAT: Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE) will organise a seminar on safety and security standards at industrial units, in cooperation with the Capital Market Authority (CMA), under the auspices of Abdullah bin Salim Al Salmi, executive president of the CMA. The seminar, which will be held at the Crowne Plaza Muscat on Wednesday, will underline the importance of providing insurance coverage for industrial units and small and medium enterprises, which require provision of appropriate security and safety standards due to the risks involved, further to establishing the concepts of occupational safety for the employees of such enterprises.

Various papers will be presented at the seminar by the Public Authority for Civil Defence and Ambulance, Oman Insurance Association, Samara Training Services, and the Oman Reinsurance Company.

The discussion will touch upon a variety of aspects, including the concept of security and safety at industrial firms; the importance of safety and security requirements; industrial fire and its prevention; requirements of reinsurance companies; safety of lives and public and private properties; how to face natural disasters; protection of economic wealth, including factories and utilities; practices that help prevent the outbreak of fire; evaluation of risks and their types in terms of chemical and physical hazards; among other topics.

If the GCC were to become one single

separate ones today, it would be the ninth largest economy in the world today, said Ernst & Young

Times News Service MUSCAT: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) could become the sixth largest economy in the world by 2030, hovering just below Japan, if is able to keep growing at an annual average of 3.2 per cent for the next 15 years, according to Ernst & Young (EY).

If the GCC were to become one single market instead of six separate ones today, it would be the ninth largest economy in the world today – similar in size to Canada and Russia and not far from India, the EY’s latest report revealed.

“The GCC governments are facing a decisive moment. With oil price falling, they have to accelerate the creation of growth drivers that do not rely on oil revenues. They are now exploring options and taking decisions such as opening up to foreign investors, ending subsidies, introducing tax-

Gerard Gallagher

Mena advisory leader, Ernst & Young

ation, optimising costs and cutting jobs in the public sector. There are signs that serious change has begun, Gerard Gallagher, Mena advisory leader, EY, said.

Economic diversification “However, these reforms could be less disruptive and more effective as part of a wider push towards rekindling and modernising the drive towards a single GCC market. That would bring the benefits of scale and efficiency to the diversification drive, and strengthen the most productive parts of the private sector by introducing more competition and more jobs,” Gallagher added.

EY developed an integration

model to measure the economic impact of removing the remaining non-tariff barriers that hold back trade, investment and productivity. The analysis illustrated that removing obstacles to trade and investment would boost the GCC growth domestic product (GDP) by 3.4 per cent or $36 billion, with 96 per cent of the gain coming from the removal of bureaucratic barriers to efficiency, the EY note said.

The benefits would be spread across all six economies, with the strongest gains in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Oman, with increases in GDP between 3.5 per cent and 4.1 per cent in the four countries.

The report also highlighted that

the next phase of GCC integration needs to address and facilitate change in three key areas: transform the customs union into a modern, technology-enabled single market that addresses the bottlenecks to cross-border business and optimise costs in the long run; streamline and align approaches to foreign investment and company ownership regulations to increase the size and competitiveness of the entire private sector; and build GCC institutions that have the capacity to sustain momentum and push against vested interests.

A fully functioning single market would reduce overall trade costs in the GCC, boost productivity and encourage higher levels of

Next step “There are immediate steps that the GCC could take that would optimize the existing levels of cooperation, bringing significant economic gains to each of the member countries, while allowing them to focus separately on creating the incentives that will make them most attractive as investment locations. Pinpointing and resolving these barriers might not sound like integration – but it would be a major step forward to leveraging the GCC’s common strengths to the benefits of each country,” Phil Gandier, Mena transactions leader, EY, said.

The most significant impact of GCC integration comes not from boosting intra-GCC trade, but from making the region’s trade and investment relations with the rest of the world easier. Creating a single market with foreign investment regulations that are both streamlined and aligned would make it more attractive for global companies to invest in the GCC.

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BANGLADESH HEIST

STOCK MARKET

Asian bankers can shrug off gloom on Wall Street floor HONG KONG: Investment banks in Asia have been engulfed in the gloom surrounding job cuts in Wall Street trading floors.

There are some green shoots emerging; things just won’t be as good as last year.

Despite some early signs of a revival in stock markets, this is likely to be a tough year for trading and investment banking worldwide, as firms grapple with record-low interest rates, plunging energy costs and cooling emerging-market growth.

Citigroup chief financial officer John Gerspach’s warning that first-quarter revenue from fixed income and equity trading could fall 15 per cent (investment banking fees are forecast to tumble 25 per cent) slammed bank stocks that had recently been on the up.

Asia has to deal with all those headwinds, and more. The few big initial public offerings (IPOs) slated for Hong Kong this year will provide thin pickings, with an ever-rising number of Chinese investment banks sure to push down underwriting fees.

Meanwhile, large investors such as hedge funds are nursing losses from the region’s weak and volatile markets.

Last year, equity trading became the most important fee driver for Asian investment banks for the first time since 2010, according to data from Coalition, buoyed by a first-half boom in China’s stock market.

IPOs such as Japan Post’s $12 billion offering and the $4.5 billion sale by Chinese brokerage Huatai

The GCC governments are facing a decisive moment.

With oil price falling, they have to accelerate the creation of growth drivers that do not rely on oil revenues. They are now exploring options and taking decisions such as opening up to foreign investors, ending subsidies, introducing taxation, optimising costs and cutting jobs in the public sector

market instead of six

intra-regional trade.

The far greater effect, however, would be to boost long-term productivity levels by increasing competition in the private sector, attracting significantly higher levels of foreign investment and creating more streamlined and effective institutions to enable world-class business.

Securities helped spur trading.

Fixed income, currencies and commodities trading (collectively known as FICC) is usually the biggest earner for investment banks, followed by equity trading and the traditional merchantbanking activities of arranging share and debt sales and advising on mergers and acquisitions.

With China’s stock boom having turned to bust in the second half of last year, equity trading remains subdued.

Investment bank revenues from Asia rose by 4 per cent last year to $29.6 billion, thanks largely to the pickup in share trading, which spurred a jump in fees for advising hedge funds — known as prime service — as well as an increase in equity derivatives activity. By comparison, global investment-banking fees dropped to $160.2 billion from $164.6 billion, hurt by the slump in Europe, according to Coalition’s data.

The buoyancy hasn’t carried into 2016. Average daily equitiestrading volume is running about 7 per cent lower by value globally this year, according to Bloomberg Intelligence data. In Asia-Pacific, the decline is 43 per cent.

Don’t look to hedge funds for help. After beating counterparts in the US and Europe last year, Asian funds are off to their worst start to a year on record. Excluding those that invest in Japan, they lost 6.6 per cent in the first two months of 2016, according to Singapore-based data provider Eurekahedge. - Bloomberg News

Swift to advise banks on security DHAKA: Swift messaging system plans to ask banks to make sure they are following recommended security practices following an unprecedented cyber attack on Bangladesh’s central bank that yielded $81 million, a spokeswoman for the group has said.

Brussels-based Swift, a cooperative owned by some 3,000 global financial institutions, will issue a written advisory asking banks to review internal security, the spokeswoman said.

Swift staff will also begin calling banks to highlight the importance of reviewing security measures after the attack in Bangladesh, she added.

“Our priority at this time is to encourage customers to review and, where necessary, to reinforce their local operating environments,” the spokeswoman added.

Unknown hackers breached the computer systems of Bangladesh Bank and in early February attempted to steal $951 million from its account at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, which it uses

for international settlements.

Some attempted transfers were blocked, but $81 million was transferred to accounts in the Philippines in one of the largest cyber heists in history.

Recommendations SWIFT has so far said little about the attack, except that it was related to “an internal operational issue” at Bangladesh Bank and that there was no compromise in its core messaging system.

Swift prepared a summary of previously issued recommendations for implementing security measures to thwart hackers, which advises members to pay close attention to best practices, the spokeswoman added.

While Swift can advise members to follow certain minimum security standards, there is no organization with regulatory oversight of how central banks and other financial institutions secure their networks, said independent security consultant Shane Shook on Sunday. - Reuters

BANGLADESH THEFT: Unknown hackers breached the computer

systems of Bangladesh Bank and in early February attempted to steal $951 million from its account. – Bloomberg News

B4

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

MARKET MSM index ends higher

OMAN STOCKS

MUSCAT SECURITIES MARKET

INDICES Index .................................................High .................Low..................... Value ............... Prev . Value.......... Diff ...............Diff % MSM30 Index ........................................5,381.26 .............. 5,348.69 ................... 5,376.35 ................... 5,349.12..................27.23 ................... 0.51 Financial Index .....................................6,630.75 ...............6,596.18 ................... 6,624.91 ...................6,596.69................. 28.22 ................... 0.43 Industrial Index ................................... 6,600.52 ...............6,577.00 ................... 6,577.00 ................... 6,591.32................-14.32 .................. -0.22 Services Index .......................................3,076.81 .............. 3,048.70 ................... 3,076.55 ...................3,048.70..................27.85 ................... 0.91 MSM SHARIAH INDEX.......................839.57 ..................836.48 .......................838.31 ...................... 836.98.................... 1.33 ................... 0.16 Trading Summary Volume ................Turnover ..........Trades .............. Market Cap............. Up............Down ............. Equal .........Sec. Traded 14,939,382 ................. 3,940,197 .................... 824 ............... 16,340,172,335 ................ 17 ..................... 10 .................... 18 .........................45

The top gainer was Oman Textiles, up 7.28 per cent, while Gulf Investment Services was the

SHARE PRICE BULLETIN FOR MONDAY, MARCH 21

top loser, down by 3.16 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: Omani bourse remained stable on Monday with the MSM 30 Index closing at 5,376.35 points, up 0.51 per cent. The MSM Sharia Index gained 0.16 per cent to close at 838.31 points.

Bank Muscat was the most active in terms of volume and turnover. The top gainer was Oman Textiles, up 7.28 per cent, while Gulf Investment Services was the top loser, down by 3.16 per cent.

As many as 824 trades were executed on Monday, generating a turnover of OMR3.9 million with 14.9 million shares changing hands. Out of 45 traded securities, 17 advanced, 10 declined and 18 remained unchanged.

GCC and Arab investors were net buyers for OMR642,000 followed by Omani investors for OMR223,000 while foreign investors were net sellers for OMR865,000 worth of shares.

Financial Index advanced 0.43 per cent to close at 6,624.91 points. Al Anwar Holding, Oman United Insurance, Ahli Bank, NBO and United Finance gained by 2.29 per cent, 2.14 per cent, 1.74 per cent, 1.09 per cent and 0.68 per cent, respectively. Gulf Investment Services, Al Madina Investments and Al Batinah Development declined by 3.16 per cent, 1.61 per cent and 1.35 per cent, respectively.

Industrial Index retreated by 0.22 per cent to close at 6,577.00 points. Oman Textiles, Galfar Engineering, DhofarCattlefeed and Raysut Cement increased by 7.28 per cent, 1.61 per cent, 0.91 per cent and 0.43 per cent, respectively. Oman Cement, Al Jazeera Steel and Gulf International Chemicals declined by 2.13 per cent, 1.45 per cent and 0.63 per cent, respectively.

Services Index closed at 3,076.55 points with strong gains of 0.91 per cent. Ooredoo Oman, Al Batinah Power, Al Suwadi

Power, Al Jazeera Services and ACWA Power increased by 3.41 per cent, 2.50 per cent, 2.50 per cent, 2.10 per cent and 1.89 per cent, respectively. Port Services, SMN Power, National Gas and Omantel declined by 1.09 per cent, 1.08 per cent, 0.34 per cent and 0.32 per cent, respectively.

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

OM0000003968 ...........OOREDOO....................................................................... 615,348 .........447,973..................... 37 ............0.728 ........... 0.728 ...........0.728........... 0.728 .............0.704 ........... 0.024............. 3.409 ................0.728 ..............0.728...................0.732..................473,887,399........0.100 OM0000004925 ...........AL BATINAH POWER.................................................. 84,114 ............. 17,216......................13 ........... 0.205 ...........0.205 ...........0.203........... 0.205 .............0.200 ........... 0.005.............2.500 ................0.205............. 0.200...................0.205 .................138,351,923 ........0.100 OM0000004933 ...........AL SUWADI POWER ................................................... 84,043 ............. 17,210......................12 ........... 0.205 ...........0.205 ...........0.203........... 0.205 .............0.200 ........... 0.005.............2.500 ................0.205..............0.203...................0.205 .................146,453,300........0.100 OM0000001772 ............AL ANWAR HOLDING............................................... 1,992,369 ......356,885................... 166 ............0.177 ........... 0.181............0.177 ............0.179 ............. 0.175............ 0.004.............2.286 ................0.181 ..............0.180...................0.182...................26,863,425.........0.100 OM0000001087............OMAN UNITED INSURANCE ............................... 129,451 ............ 30,963..................... 23 ........... 0.239 ...........0.240 ...........0.237........... 0.239 .............0.234 ........... 0.005............. 2.137 ................0.240 ............ 0.240...................0.241...................23,900,000 ........0.100 OM0000002226 ...........AL JAZEERA SERVICES ............................................13,304 ............... 3,881........................3 ........... 0.290...........0.300 ...........0.290 .......... 0.292 .............0.286 ........... 0.006.............2.098 ................0.300 ............ 0.290...................0.300 .................. 17,871,648 .........0.100 OM0000003141 ............ACWA POWER BARKA .................................................8,240 ...............5,340........................2 ........... 0.648 ...........0.648 ...........0.648........... 0.648 .............0.636 ............0.012 ............. 1.887 ................0.648..............0.664...................0.000 .................103,680,000........0.100 OM0000004669 ...........SHARQIYAH DESALINATION ...................................1,765 ...............8,534........................5 ............4.750 ...........4.850 ...........4.750........... 4.835 .............4.750 ............0.085 ............. 1.789.................4.850..............4.750...................4.850 ..................47,287,344 .........1.000 OM0000002200 ...........AHLI BANK .................................................................... 365,200 ............63,915......................11 ............0.180 ........... 0.180 ...........0.172 ............0.175 ............. 0.172............ 0.003............. 1.744 ................0.175 .............. 0.173...................0.175 ..................249,381,325........0.100

Aabar Investments Aabar Investments, the Abu Dhabi government-backed investor, signed a 3.6 billion-euro ($4.1 billion) loan to refinance debt.

The five-year senior unsecured, non-guaranteed facility was arranged on “tighter terms” compared with previous ones, the company said in an e-mailed statement, without providing further details.

The facility will pay 180 basis points, including margin and fees, two people with knowledge of the deal, who asked not to be identified because information hasn’t been made public, told Bloomberg News earlier this month.

Bank of America Merrill Lynch, BNP Paribas, HSBC, Intesa Sanpaolo, JPMorgan Chase, National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Natixis, Societe Generale and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking were lead arrangers and bookrunners. Aabar said a further limited syndication of the facility is also being arranged.

The company owned by International Petroleum Investment Company, which in turn is owned by the Abu Dhabi government, has $5.5 billion of outstanding debt, according to data compiled

by Bloomberg. It holds stakes in companies including UniCredit, RHB Capital and Arabtec.

European stocks retreated as sliding miners and energy producers outweighed potential merger-and-acquisition gains in chemical companies.

Total dragged oil stocks lower.

OM0000003521 ............GALFAR ENGINEERING AND CON. .................. 1,209,729 ........ 76,220..................... 36 ........... 0.063 ...........0.064 ...........0.063........... 0.063 .............0.062 ............0.001 ..............1.613.................0.063..............0.063...................0.064 ..................18,268,780 .........0.100 OM0000001483............NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN ................................. 1,517,978 ...... 420,082.....................44 ........... 0.275 ...........0.279 ...........0.274........... 0.277 .............0.274 ........... 0.003............. 1.095 ................0.279..............0.279...................0.280 .................371,376,739 ........0.100 OM0000002374............UNITED FINANCE ..................................................... 217,201 ............ 32,041......................16 ............0.147 ........... 0.148 ...........0.147 ........... 0.148 ............. 0.147.............0.001 ............. 0.680 ................0.148 .............. 0.147...................0.148................... 45,993,211 .........0.100 OM0000003224 ...........RENAISSANCE SERVICES ..................................... 228,500 ............39,401......................11 ............0.173 ........... 0.173 ...........0.172 ............0.172 ............. 0.171 .............0.001 ............. 0.585 ................0.173 .............. 0.172...................0.175 ...................49,991,976 .........0.100 OM0000001418 ............RAYSUT CEMENT ...................................................... 110,000.......... 103,410......................11 ........... 0.948 ...........0.948 ...........0.936........... 0.940 .............0.936 ........... 0.004............. 0.427 ................0.936..............0.936...................0.972................. 188,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000001822............UNITED POWER ............................................................. 1,000 ...............3,400........................1 ........... 3.400 ...........3.400 ...........3.400........... 3.400 .............3.390 ............0.010 ............. 0.295 ................3.400..............3.370...................3.400 ...................2,720,000 ..........1.000 OM0000001319 ............NATIONAL ALUMINIUM PRODUCTS ............. 250,000 ........... 55,000........................6 ........... 0.220...........0.220 ...........0.220 .......... 0.220 .............0.220 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.220 ............ 0.000...................0.220 ....................7,385,719...........0.100 OM0000001517 ............HSBC BANK OMAN ............................................................268 .....................25........................1 ........... 0.095 ........... 0.095 ...........0.095........... 0.095 .............0.095 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.095..............0.095...................0.099.................. 190,029,715 ........0.100 OM0000001525 ............OMAN INVESTMENT AND FINANCE.............. 311,507 ............ 63,859.....................24 ........... 0.205 ...........0.205 ...........0.205........... 0.205 .............0.205 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.205..............0.205...................0.207 ..................41,000,000.........0.100 OM0000001533 ............OMINVEST .................................................................... 584,015 ........ 292,008.....................20 ........... 0.500 ...........0.500 ...........0.500........... 0.500 .............0.500 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.500..............0.500...................0.504 .................276,430,821........0.100 OM0000001681 ............OMAN AND EMIRATES INV. HOLDING...............5,000 .................. 455........................1 ............0.091 ........... 0.091 ...........0.091 ............0.091 ............. 0.091............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.091 ..............0.089...................0.097................... 11,090,625 .........0.100 OM0000002168............AL ANWAR CERAMIC TILES .................................95,000 .............27,075........................9 ........... 0.285 ...........0.285 ...........0.285........... 0.285 .............0.285 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.285..............0.285...................0.300 ..................84,420,899.........0.100 OM0000002796 ...........BANK MUSCAT ............................................................ 3,011,478.... 1,107,869....................119 ........... 0.368 ...........0.368 ...........0.366........... 0.368 .............0.368 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.366..............0.366...................0.368..................885,560,252 .......0.100 OM0000003000 ...........ALMAHA PETROLEUM PRODUCTS MAR. .......10,500 .............17,850........................6 ............1.700 ........... 1.700 ...........1.700 ............1.700 ............. 1.700............ 0.000.............0.000 ................1.700 .............. 1.650...................1.700 ..................117,300,000 ........0.100 OM0000003125 ............GLOBAL FINANCIAL INVESTMENT ................ 579,000 ............78,165........................8 ............0.135 ........... 0.135 ...........0.135 ............0.135 ............. 0.135............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.135 .............. 0.135...................0.138...................27,000,000.........0.100 OM0000003398 ...........BANK SOHAR................................................................ 255,400 ........... 39,466........................9 ............0.155 ........... 0.155 ...........0.154 ............0.155 ............. 0.155............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.154 .............. 0.153...................0.154................. 223,423,200 .......0.100 OM0000003661 ............VOLTAMP ENERGY .....................................................37,909 .............16,301........................6 ........... 0.430 ...........0.430 ...........0.430........... 0.430 .............0.430 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.430..............0.426...................0.430 ..................26,015,000 .........0.100 OM0000004768 ...........AL MADINA TAKAFUL............................................. 119,800...............8,386..................... 10 ........... 0.070 ...........0.070 ...........0.070........... 0.070 .............0.070 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.070..............0.069...................0.070...................12,250,000.........0.100 OM0000005005 ...........ALMAHA CERAMICS ................................................ 165,137 ............ 66,058..................... 35 ........... 0.402 ...........0.402 ...........0.398........... 0.400 .............0.400 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.398..............0.398...................0.404 ..................21,000,000.........0.100 OM0000003026 ...........OMAN TELECOMMUNICATION ........................ 136,316 .......... 212,673......................18 ............1.565 ........... 1.565 ...........1.555 ........... 1.560 ............. 1.565............-0.005 ........... -0.319................1.560 .............. 1.550...................1.560................1,170,000,000 ......0.100 OM0000001160 ............NATIONAL GAS ..............................................................27,157 ............... 8,019........................6 ........... 0.296 ...........0.296 ...........0.294 .......... 0.295 .............0.296 ...........-0.001 ........... -0.338 ...............0.294..............0.292...................0.294 ..................14,750,000 .........0.100 OM0000002028 ...........GULF INTERNATIONAL CHEMICALS ............ 139,250 ...........44,087.....................22 ............0.318 ........... 0.318 ...........0.316 ............0.316 ............. 0.318............-0.002 ........... -0.629 ...............0.316 .............. 0.316...................0.318....................6,636,000 ..........0.100 OM0000004248 ...........SMN POWER HOLDING ........................................... 40,000 ............ 29,280........................2 ............0.732 ........... 0.732 ...........0.732........... 0.732 .............0.740 ...........-0.008 ............-1.081................0.732 ............. 0.000...................0.740..................146,133,259 ........0.100 OM0000001145 ............PORT SERVICES CORPORATION ........................ 28,900 ...............5,244........................6 ............0.183 ........... 0.183 ...........0.181 ............0.181 ............. 0.183............-0.002 ........... -1.093................0.181 .............. 0.181...................0.182...................17,202,240 .........0.100 OM0000002366 ...........AL BATINAH DEV. INV. HOLDING ....................... 20,000 ...............1,460........................2 ........... 0.073 ........... 0.073 ...........0.073........... 0.073 .............0.074 ...........-0.001 ............-1.351 ................0.073..............0.072...................0.073....................2,190,000 ..........0.100 OM0000002176 ............AL JAZEERA STEEL PRODUCTS ........................ 113,332 .............15,366........................8 ............0.136 ........... 0.136 ...........0.133 ............0.136 ............. 0.138............-0.002 ........... -1.449 ...............0.133 .............. 0.133...................0.134................... 16,986,123 .........0.100 OM0000001962............AL MADINA INVESTMENT ................................... 166,000 ............10,156......................13 ........... 0.062 ...........0.062 ...........0.061 ........... 0.061 .............0.062 ...........-0.001 ............-1.613 ................0.061 ..............0.060...................0.061...................12,636,234 .........0.100 OM0000001749 ............OMAN CEMENT ........................................................... 40,900 .............18,784......................13 ........... 0.470 ...........0.470 ...........0.458........... 0.460 .............0.470 ...........-0.010 ........... -2.128 ...............0.458..............0.440...................0.458..................152,201,447........0.100 OM0000002820 ...........GULF INVESTMENT SERVICES ......................... 194,518 ............. 17,918........................8 ........... 0.093 ...........0.093 ...........0.092........... 0.092 .............0.095 ...........-0.003 ............-3.158................0.092..............0.090...................0.092 ................... 5,413,576 ..........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 12,909,629........3,761,976 ............743 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ......38........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

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

OM0000001053 ............OMAN TEXTILE HOLDING .....................................27,000 ............... 8,756..................... 10 ............0.312 ...........0.332 ...........0.312 ........... 0.324 .............0.302 ........... 0.022............. 7.285 ................0.332..............0.328...................0.332....................1,944,000 ..........1.000 OM0000001301 ............DHOFAR CATTLE FEED ............................................10,000 .............. 2,220........................1 ........... 0.222...........0.222 ...........0.222 .......... 0.222 .............0.220 ........... 0.002.............0.909 ................0.222............. 0.222...................0.230 ..................17,094,000 .........0.100 OM0000001566 ............OMAN FISHERIES .......................................................65,010 ...............3,580........................5 ............0.055 ...........0.056 ...........0.055........... 0.055 .............0.055 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.056..............0.055...................0.056....................6,875,000 ..........0.100 OM0000001590............MUSCAT FINANCE.................................................... 271,973.............35,356..................... 10 ............0.130 ........... 0.130 ...........0.130........... 0.130 .............0.130............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.130 ..............0.129...................0.130................... 32,710,401 .........0.100 OM0000004420 ...........BANK NIZWA ................................................................ 618,397............ 44,516......................16 ........... 0.072 ...........0.072 ...........0.071 ........... 0.072 .............0.072 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.072.............. 0.071...................0.072................. 108,000,000 .......0.100 OM0000004511 ............ALIZZ ISLAMIC BANK.............................................. 765,500 ........... 43,634......................19 ........... 0.057 ........... 0.057 ...........0.057........... 0.057 .............0.057 ........... 0.000.............0.000 ................0.057..............0.057...................0.058...................57,000,000.........0.100 OM0000005963 ...........PHOENIX POWER ...................................................... 271,873............ 40,160.....................20 ............0.148 ........... 0.148 ...........0.146........... 0.148 .............0.148............ 0.000.............0.000 ................0.148 .............. 0.147...................0.148..................216,465,016 ........0.100 .............................................SUM: .................................................................................. 2,029,753 .......178,221......................81 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................... TRADED SEC. ........ 7........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

– United Securities/Bloomberg News

U N PA I D B I L L S

INDIAN MARKETS

China’s receivables swell to $590b Sensex ends above BEIJING: Chinese companies are facing trouble in getting money from customers.

It now takes about 83 days for the typical Chinese firm to collect cash for completed sales, almost twice as long as emerging-market peers.

As payment delays spread from the industrial sector to technology and consumer companies, accounts receivable at the nation’s public firms have swelled by 23 per cent over the past two years to about $590 billion, exceeding the annual economic output of Taiwan.

The raft of unpaid bills — bigger than at any time since former Premier Zhu Rongji shuttered thousands of state-run companies at the turn of the century — shows how cash shortages at the weakest firms threaten not only banks and bondholders, but also China’s vast web of interconnected supply chains.

With corporate bankruptcies projected to climb 20 per cent this year, more Chinese businesses may be forced to choose between two unpleasant options: keep extending credit to potentially insolvent customers, or cut off the taps and watch sales sink.

“There is a knock-on effect through the economy,” said Fraser Howie, the Singapore-based co-author of “Red Capitalism: The Fragile Financial Foundation of China’s Extraordinary Rise,” who has followed the nation’s markets for more than two decades. “Part of the end game is default and closure.”

Big squeeze It’s easy to see why collecting payments is getting harder in China.

Businesses and consumers have been squeezed by the deepest economic slowdown since 1990, while overcapacity has fueled an unprecedented stretch of declines in producer prices. Record corporate debt levels have left many firms struggling to meet their

liabilities, with corporate insolvencies jumping by 25 per cent in 2015, according to Euler Hermes.

The world’s largest trade credit insurer sees another 20 per cent increase in Chinese bankruptcies this year, the most among 43 major markets.

People’s Bank of China Governor Zhou Xiaochuan underscored his concern about rising debt levels over the weekend, saying in a speech in Beijing that corporate lending had become too high. “It’s a big problem when you have rising insolvencies, a bad economic environment and less liquidity for small companies,” said Mahamoud Islam, the senior Asia economist at Euler Hermes in Hong Kong.

Cash flow Those headwinds are increasingly visible in Chinese financial statements, where the accounts receivable and sales entries allow analysts to calculate “days sales outstanding,” or how long it takes a firm to get paid.

The median collection time of 83 days, compiled by Bloomberg from the most-recent filings of mainland-domiciled firms, has climbed from 79 days in 2014 and 55 days in 2010. It’s higher than in any of the world’s 20 biggest economies except Italy, and compares with the 44-day median for companies in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index.

Chinese industrial firms take longest to convert sales into cash, at 131 days, followed by 120 days for technology companies and 118 days for telecommunications firms. While it varies by sector, a reading of more than 100 days is typically a “red flag,” said Amy Sunderland, a money manager at Grandeur Peak Global Advisors in Salt Lake City, Utah. She’s been avoiding companies in the infrastructure and environmen-

tal-protection industries in part because they’re taking too long to collect payments.

“It could indicate future cash flow problems” or that a company is booking revenues too aggressively, said Sunderland, whose Global Opportunities Fund has gained an annualized 9.4 percent over the past three years, beating 94 percent of peers tracked by Bloomberg.

Green shoots It’s also a sign that sales and profit figures at Chinese companies could be weaker than they appear, given that some customers may fail to pay up. China First Heavy Industries, a producer of industrial equipment, said in January that it expected to report a 2015 net loss of 1.75 billion yuan ($270 million) after boosting provisions for uncollectable receivables.

The company, based in China’s northeastern Heilongjiang Province, took 1,260 days to secure cash from sales during the 12 months ended September, up from 490 days a year earlier.

That’s the most among Chinese firms with a market capitalisation of at least $5 billion, data compiled by Bloomberg show. China First Heavy didn’t return a call seeking comment.

Hard times Granted, giving customers time to pay is a common business practice in many industries around the world, and it could make sense for Chinese companies to extend collection deadlines as they wait for economic growth to recover.

Bloomberg’s monthly estimate of Chinese gross domestic product climbed to 6.8 per cent in February from 6.3 per cent the previous month, a sign that monetary easing is starting to bear fruit.

Investors leery of companies

with large receivables can still find examples of firms improving their collection times. Dongfeng Motor, China’s second-biggest carmaker, has cut its days sales outstanding to 55 as of June 2015 from 88 in 2013. All but three of the 26 analysts tracked by Bloomberg have buy recommendations on the stock, which trades in Hong Kong.

Still, most Chinese companies are moving in the opposite direction, even in so-called new economy industries that many analysts anticipated would be sheltered from the nation’s slowdown. The collection time at Tsinghua Tongfang Co., a maker of personal computers and software, has climbed to 107 days from 91 days at the end of 2014.

While the increase resulted from the company’s expansion, it also heightened the risk of delinquencies, the Beijing-based firm said in a regulatory filing last month.

Kweichow Moutai took 56 days to collect payments as of September, up from 13 days in 2014, the biggest increase among major Chinese companies tracked by Bloomberg.

Receivables spiked as President Xi Jinping’s crackdown on corruption and extravagance cut into demand, leaving some distributors short on cash.

The trend of longer collection periods isn’t going to end anytime soon, says Chen Xingdong, chief China economist at BNP Paribas.

The former World Bank official sees at least two more years of delayed payments as companies struggle to reap better terms from their customers. - Bloomberg News

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25,000; rupee slips

MUMBAI: S&P BSE benchmark sensex ended above psychological 25,000-mark and NSE 50-share Nifty above 7,700-level after twoand-a-half months to 25,285.37 and 7,704.25 respectively on sustained buying from operators on the back of persistent foreign capital inflows despite mixed global trend.

Shares of Industrials, capital goods, finance, consumer durables, realty and FMCG sectors on good buying inquiries. Foreign funds continued their buying spree.

Meanwhile, Dun & Bradstreet report said,” Growth prospects remain positive for the Indian economy, with the government strongly accelerating its reform announcements.

According to the research firm, reform announcements are gaining momentum and growth prospects remain positive despite the fact that the Indian economy is at a crucial juncture amid an investment lull and weak exports.

The Sensex resumed higher at 25,007.56 and hovered in a range of 24,988.27 and 25,327.45 before ending at two-and-a-half months high at 25,285.37, showing a gain of 332.63 and 1.33 per cent. It had last ended at 25,406.33 on January 6, 2016.

The NSE 50-share Nifty also rose by 99.90 points or 1.31 per cent to close above 7,700 level after 2-1/2 month at 7,704.25. It had last ended at 7,741.00 on January 6, 2016. In overseas stock markets, European markets were trading narrowly mixed as a slide in commodity prices weighed on investor sentiment.

Rupee drops Snapping three-day winning spree against the American currency, the rupee declined by 3 paise to close at 66.53 per dollar on fag-end dollar demand from importers on the back of higher dollar in the

overseas market.

The rupee resumed higher at 66.46 per dollar as against the last weekend’s level of 66.50 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) Market and firmed up further to 66.41 per dollar on initial selling of dollars by exporters and banks on the back of persistent foreign capital inflows amidst firm equity market.

However, it dropped afterwards to 66.58 per dollar on renewed dollar demand from importers on the back of recovery of dollar in the overseas market before ending a 66.53 per dollar, showing a marginal loss of 3 paise or 0.05 per cent. It had gained by 88 paise or 1.31 per cent in previous three days.

The rupee hovered in a range of 66.41 per dollar and 66.58 per dollar during the day.

The dollar index was up by 0.08 per cent against a basket of six currencies in the late afternoon trade.

The dollar was edging higher in the global market in the afternoon session following last week’s loss of more than 1 per cent against key rivals. The greenback was punished last week after the Federal Reserve signaled a slower pace of interest rate increases this year.

Pramit Brahmbhatt of Veracity Financial Services said," Rupee opened on a flat note and breaking below 66.50 despite positive domestic cues where our benchmark index Nifty gained nearly 100 points. Thus rupee closed with a loss of 3 paisa at 66.53.

Trading range for spot US dollar/Indian rupeepair is expected to be within 66.20 to 66.80/USD for the day. In forward market, premium for dollar moved down further due to persistent receivings from exporters.

The benchmark six-month premium for August dropped. - PTI

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ROUND-UP CHROMOSOMAL DISORDER

Al Amal Association marks World Down Syndrome Day 2016

Mitsubishi opens new quick service centre The new service centre in Azaiba will be of great benefit to Mitsubishi owners in the capital area, offering them a more convenient and time-saving alternative for booking their vehicles for a minor lube service

MUSCAT: General Automotive Company (GAC), the official distributors of Mitsubishi vehicles in Oman, formally opened a new Express Service Centre in Azaiba recently.

The new service centre will be of great benefit to Mitsubishi owners in the capital area, offering them a more convenient and time-saving alternative for booking their vehicles for a minor lube service, says a press release.

Commenting on the launch of the

new Express Service Centre, Yasser Zerik, the National Service Manager said, “As the number of Mitsubishi vehicles in the capital area grow we wanted to offer a time-saving alternative for those customers that just want to bring their vehicle in for a quick lube service. This way, our customers can be assured the highest standards of service with the minimum possible wait time for a service appointment.”

The new Express Service Centre, located adjacent to the exist-

ing primary Mitsubishi Service Centre in Azaiba, is a 4-bay facility well equipped and operated by highly-trained technicians and specialises in quick one-hour lube services. The service centre even boasts a special customer lounge with free Wi-Fi services and soon to be installed hot and cold vending machines.

The waiting area also provides a clear view of the workshop through which customers can view their vehicles as the technicians carry out the service check points. The centre is also equipped with an auto washing facility that improves turnaround time and washing quality.

As an added bonus; as the cars are being washed they can be viewed on the TV in the customer lounge, thanks to a camera mounted in the washing area. The new Express Service Centre will operate from 8am to 5:30pm from Saturday to Thursdays and will offer all quick service facilities by appointment.

“With this new facility, equipped with complementing tools and facilities,we will be able to provide better and faster services to our customers in the capital and help further improve their overall ownership experience. The launch of this Express Service Centre will no doubt see our after-sales service take a qualitative leap in the area and better complement the brand’s high manufacturing quality and market leading position,” added Yasser.

GAC has always operated with a focus on establishing long-term partnerships with its customers.

At each of its service centres, including the new facility in Azaiba, GAC’s objective is to provide world-class levels of services that ensures customer’s vehicles are kept operating at peak performance with the quickest possible turnaround time. In doing so GAC ensures that your Mitsubishi spends the minimal possible time being serviced and enjoys a long trouble-free life.

MUSCAT: March 21, 2016 marked the 11th anniversary of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD). Each year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder.

Al Amal Association Oman, celebrates World Down Syndrome Day and strives to be a part of the worldwide campaign.

The association not only supports the cause but also helps the individuals to bring back the smiles which they have lost due to negative misconceptions and lack of awareness related to the syndrome, says a press release.

Al Amal is an association for people with intellectual disabilities. Al Amal believes that quality educational programmes, a stimulating home environment, good healthcare and a constant positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down Syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives.

Awareness day The United Nations has been observing March 21 as the global awareness day for Down Syndrome since 2012. The date for WDSD on the 21st day of the third month of a year was chosen so to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down Syndrome. According to www.downsyndromeoman.com, it occurs in approximately one in every 800 live births with the recent statistics in Oman pointing out one in 400 births.

It is also considered as the most frequently occurring chro-

mosomal disorder. Individuals with Down Syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46.

Societies have brought in vast development where individuals with Down Syndrome can contribute to the society with the assistance of speech therapists, sign language teachers, special needs teachers and physiotherapists.

Down Syndrome International day encourages friends all over the world to choose your own activities and events to help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down Syndrome, and how people with Down Syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities.

People with Down Syndrome, on an equal basis with other people, must be able to enjoy full and equal rights, both as children and adults. This includes the opportunity to participate fully in their communities.

The reality for many is that prevailing negative attitudes result in low expectations, discrimination and exclusion, creating communities where children and adults with Down Syndrome cannot integrate successfully with their peers.

But where children with Down Syndrome and other disabilities are given opportunities to participate, all children benefit from this and environments of friendship, acceptance, respect for everyone and high expectations are created.

Life is the right of every child. Not a special privilege for the fortunate, the planned and the perfect.

AL AMER GAS ENGINEERING

AIGESCO celebrates fifth year of operations in Oman MUSCAT: Al Amer Gas Engineering Co. (AIGESCO), a member of Sergas Group which is the leader in the UAE Gas Systems Sector since 1988, is celebrating its 5th year of operations in Oman gas market.

AIGESCO has completed over 45 projects in Oman and offers 24-hour customer service to all its customers, says a press release.

The company's vision for longterm business is based on quality, honesty and fairness in its dealings by thinking and acting confidently.

AIGESCO has been built by comDEVELOPING FISHING SECTOR

Oman Shipping sponsors Marine Safety Symposium

MUSCAT: Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries conducted its second annual Marine Safety Symposium for local fishermen in Musandam Governorate under the patronage of Dr Hamed bin Said Al Aufi, Undersecretary of Fisheries Wealth.

The symposium was exclusively sponsored by Oman Shipping Company, says a press release.

During the symposium, more than 125 safety bags were distributed to local fishermen from Wilayats of Khasab, Dibba Bukha and Lima. Both parties aim to develop fishing sector by equipping local fishermen with essential marine safety tools and continues safety awareness campaigns across the Sultanate.

AIGESCO has completed over 45 projects in Oman and offers 24-hour customer service to all its customers mitted service as well as hard work and as a result it has achieved great projects during the past 28 years.

Sergas Group is constantly striving to be the best in the industry and

to provide the customers with the highest level of services. It started its operations from UAE and today it has expanded to Oman and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and planning to enter other countries.

The group expressed gratitude to the local authorities for their continuous valued support and to the Oman's leadership for its wise vision in the energy sector which has made Oman an attractive business destination in the world.

People can visit the group in Oman at OGWA 2016, Stand A270 from March 21-23.

SWEETS OF OMAN DECLARES 50 PERCENT DIVIDEND The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Sweets of Oman was held recently to approve the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2015. The AGM resolved on distribution of a dividend of 50 baisa per share ( 50% of paid up capital) to the share holders. The meeting was chaired by Redha Baqir Al Lawati. The company has achieved a turnover of OMR12 million. The net profit for the company after taxation was OMR703,595. — Supplied image

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

ROUND-UP HH Sayyid Asaad opens new ODSA headquarters

CONSUMER PROMOTION

The inauguration of

Tiffany announces promotion winner

the state-of-the-art building coincides with the world observing the World Down Syndrome Day

MUSCAT: The Oman Down Syndrome Association (ODSA) officially inaugurated its headquarters in Muscat governorate under the auspices of His Highness Sayyid Asaad bin Tariq Al Said, the chairman of the association.

The newly formed body operates under the umbrella of the Ministry of Social Development and with the new centre, it will serve as an

incubator for stakeholders across the Sultanate. It will bring together parents as well as volunteers to work hand in hand to accelerate natural growth of those affected in the society and help them integrate into the social fabric, says a press release.

C O L OU R S C H E M E P R O A P P L I C AT I O N

New Berger Paints app inspires creativity MUSCAT: Have you ever had a moment when you see a colour and wished you could have it on the wall of your favourite corner at home? Now, you actually can!

Just snap a photo on your phone with Berger’s Colour Scheme PRO app. Colour Scheme Pro not only matches the colour to the 1800+ shades from Berger’s palette, but also lets you visualise the same in a 3D virtual room, says a press release.

The app which is available for both Android and Apple phones, can be downloaded from the Berger website and has been designed keeping in mind the individual home owner who wants to explore different options without the pain of going back and forth between paint stores searching for the right catalogue.

P. K. Raj, general manager, Berger Paints, said: “We wanted to make it easy for individuals to sit in the comfort of their homes

and try out their ideas on design.

You don’t have to be an interior designer, you don’t have to go back and forth to stores, just shoot pictures on your phone or choose from the range of ready images to play out your ideas. Save as many ideas and combinations you like.

Once you have a final list, just drop by your nearest Berger store, share the shade number, and in five minutes, you are ready to take your favourite colour home.

The app, which is simple to use, is available in Arabic and English.”

The inauguration of the state-ofthe-art building coincides with the world observing the World Down Syndrome Day. Located in Azaiba, it is equipped with facilities to meet the needs of parents with kids who suffer from Down Syndrome, a condition that affects around one

in every 400 babies born in Oman.

These facilities include classrooms dedicated to provide rehabilitation, educational and therapeutic programmes for members registered at the association in order to help children with down syndrome reach their full potential.

MUSCAT: Tiffany Biscuits, one of the leading biscuits brand in GCC region, announced the winner of its mega consumer promotion ‘Tiffany Biscuits Wins you Nissan Patrol and More’ recently.

Saif Al Mazroei won the grand prize of Nissan Patrol. The lucky draw was held in the presence of Ministry of Commerce and Industry representatives, says a press release.

This mega consumer promotion was held in all major outlets across Oman in the months of December 2015 and January

2016 by IFFCO Distribution, Oman, says a press release.

The grand prize was Nissan Patrol along with other instant prizes including Samsung smartphones, laptops, 32’ LED TV and microwave ovens.

Mohammed Zubair Siddiqui, general manager of IFFCO Distribution Oman, said: “It is one of the continuous initiatives of our company to reward the loyal consumers of our brands and we will come back soon with more and more exciting promotions for the people of Oman.”

ATT R AC T I V E F L O R A L C R E AT I O N S

Ultimate Planner: A high-end shop for unique flowers and accessories MUSCAT: Ultimate Planner, an exclusive high-end shop for unique flowers and accessories, was recently inaugurated by Barbara Joziasse, the Dutch Ambassador to the Sultanate of Oman, in the presence of dignitaries and select guests recently.

Centrally located in the bustling Qurum Complex next to Ocean Mall, Ultimate Planner is the place to go for exceptional floral decorations and glassware sourced from Holland that raises the bar by many notches for unique creations, says a press release.

The artistic and attractive floral creations captured the attention of the attendees who were impressed with the arrangements and objects created by Narayano Vrolijks MDFD, the first Dutch master floral designer in Oman, and his team.

Narayano who came to Oman with his wife, Satyama said: “With-

out Satyama’s energy and support this project and shop would not be possible,” Narayano stated.

“Some of the glass vases used in the creations by the experienced and artistic Dutch master designer are one of its kind, as they are exclusively handcrafted by an artist. Even after the flowers

fade away, the glassware can still be used as a centrepiece and will hold a place of pride for the owner,” stated Ahlam Talib Al Qutaiti, CEO of Ultimate Planner.

What sets Ultimate Planner apart from others are the exquisite designs made by Narayano, with 38 years of experience, ap-

plying his unique vision and incomparable talent to creating custom floral designs for special events of all kinds.

Narayano and his team can transform a simple or elaborate wedding into an elegant ceremony as well as tailor-make arrangements for corporate businesses, hotels, restaurants and other businesses. Each arrangement or bouquet will be personalised specially for you, so it is the perfect place to treat yourself and/or others to something special.

The enchanting shop has some amazing varieties of flowers and accessories to browse through and add to your wish list.

Ultimate Planner has a lot more to offer in the future. Over a period of time, it will extend its services to organising events that will include corporate events, concerts, theatre festivals, art and fashion shows and lots more.

STORE FOR WOMEN

Queens Fashion opens in Barka Souq MUSCAT: Queens Fashion, the exclusive store for women, opened its much awaited outlet in Barka Souq on Sunday.

The latest venture of Mars International was inaugurated by Sheikh Hilal bin Ali bin Saif Al Mamari, deputy wali of Barka in the presence of V. T. Vinod., managing director, Naveej Vinod, Executive Director, Unnikrishna Pillai, general manager, Saif Al Malki, GM (Administration) and other senior management staff of Mars Group, a number of high-ranking government officials, and representatives from the local business community, says a press release.

It is the latest addition of Mars International in Oman, conveniently located at Barka Souq, opposite NBO branch. An assortment of amusement, including the traditional Omani cultural programmes, dances and comedy shows were organised for the gathered public.

“We value our customers, hence we are proud to introduce an exclusive shopping experience only to the ladies, as we felt we would concentrate more on our

lady customers to make Queens Fashion as their ultimate shopping destination. Here we are providing more and more products and varieties at the most competitive price range combined with ultimate convenience and privacy. Today we are proud to unveil the same and we assure, our ever attentive and caring staff would be obliged to make shopping at Queens Fashion a totally refreshing experience,” said Vinod during the launch.

“Queens Fashion represents the best in exclusive retail concepts and provides maximum convenience to our valuable lady shoppers. The frequent requests from the customers have been a driving force behind this concept

and we’re sure that the populace of Barka will make this a big success,” said Naveej.

Queens offers customers a unique retail experience and the store has a refreshing look and feel with contemporary interiors and a layout based on convenience. The ample space ensures an uncluttered, fast and hassle free shopping environment. The outlet will be a complete shopping destination for women. Keeping up with the convenience and standards of Mars group outlets across the Sultanate, the new outlet will feature the widest choice of renowned beauty brands at the fairest prices. It also includes all kind of ladies garments, handbags, household items and more.

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Bank Sohar conducts 1st Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme 2016 monthly draws A special VIP event was also held at the Radisson Blu Hotel

MUSCAT: Bank Sohar, marking its first major Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme 2016 draw event of the year, recently hosted a VIP gathering in Wilayat of Sohar where it conducted its first Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme 2016 monthly draws revealing over 30 lucky winners.

Draws conducted included the OMR10,000 exclusive draw, OMR1,000 children’s draw and the OMR10,000 general monthly draw. For the first time from Bank Sohar OMR10,000 ladies draw (for two winners) was also held. The branch guaranteed draws, which saw one winner from each of the bank’s 27 branches win OMR1,000, were conducted earlier in the day at the bank’s head office in MBD. In total, the first monthly draw event saw over OMR55,000 won by 32 winners across all categories, says a press release.

The special VIP event was held at

the Radisson Blu Hotel in Sohar under the auspices of Sheikh Ali bin Ahmed Mashari Al Shamsi, Wali of Sohar. Representing Bank Sohar at the event were Rashad Ali Al Musafir, Acting CEO, Khamis Masoud Al Rahbi, Senior AGM of Branches & Retail Sales, Mazin Mahmood Al Raisi, Senior AGM of Marketing and Customer Experience, Rashid Saif Al Maskry, District manager – Batinah Region, and Naeema Al Farsi, Chief Branch manager Sohar Branch, together with other senior members of the bank and branch managers, who welcomed the chief guest and the bank’s VIP customers from the area.

The event was inaugurated with a welcome address by Naeema, followed by a speech by Rashad, He said, “The satisfaction and enthusiasm of our customers has, and

will always be, central to innovating and evolving our products, service and operations at Bank Sohar.

As such we place great importance on the feedback we receive, and place our best efforts to enhance our products and services in a way that best reflects the comments we receive. The evolution of the 2016 Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme is a clear representation of this philosophy; we’re offering even more prizes with an increased frequency of draws and guaranteed winners across our entire branch network every month.”

It was followed by an impressive traditional dance performance, an Omani fashion show, and poetry recitation by the students of the Al Ashraq School and members of the Omani Women’s Association. This was followed by a short documen-

G Y NA E C O L O G Y D E PA R T M E N T

Kims marks Mother’s Day with attractive packages MUSCAT: In celebrating the Mother’s Day, Kims Oman Hospital is offering a number of special offers and free consultations on several services at the hospital’s gynaecology department that are being conducted by its expert medical team including Dr Susan George, specialist - obstetrics and gynaecology, along with

Dr. Shalaka Prakash, specialist, obstetrics and gynaecology. The special offers will end today, says a press release.

Recognised by its highly skilled and compassionate doctors who have rich experience in the gynaecology and obstetrics department, Kims Oman offers total care for women and future mothers.

“I would like to convey my best wishes to all mothers around the world on this very special and dear occasion. I highly recommend the female community members to benefit from our special offers at Kims Oman Hospital’s Gynaecology Department,” said Dr Hussam Akoum, chief operating officer of KOH.

P L AY A R E A S

Fun City opens two new outlets

MUSCAT: Landmark Leisure, the entertainment division of the iconic Landmark Group, launched two more Fun City centres in Oman. The first outlet is at Al Khuwair near Centrepoint and the second one is at Nizwa Grand Mall - Nizwa, says a press release.

Announcing this launch, Clive Freeman, COO - Landmark group Oman said, “We are delighted to open our two new Fun City play areas, in both Al Khuwair Centrepoint and Nizwa Grand Mall. This brings the number of

Fun City stores to five in the Sultanate, with a further five planned over the next three years. We are committed to adding to the leisure of our customers, and Fun City is a leading provider of fun and entertainment in the Middle East.”

Both Fun City houses the highly popular Play Zone area for children aged 4 – 12. The soft play area helps develop their physical, social, mental and emotional skills. The structure inside the Play Zone is multi-levelled with climbing frames, interactive el-

ements, crawl tunnels, padded obstacles, rope bridges, ball pools and slides which provides freedom to children to use their imagination in exploratory play.

A selection of popular rides and games like, bumper ring, happy swing, all train, simulator (video games), redemption machine, kiddy rides and play-zone are also present in these outlets. The other three Fun City locations in Oman are Safeer Mall - Sohar, Al Meera Mall - Azaiba and Grand Centre Mall - Barka.

tary video showcasing the journey of the 2015 Al Mumayaz Saving Scheme together with its highlights and various draw events followed

by Redha Al Lawatia, Sr. chief manager of Liabilities and Sales providing the guests with a brief overview of the 2016 Savings Scheme and an outline of each of the draws that were to be conducted.

Following the honouring ceremony, the five major draws were conducted; beginning with the children’s draw which saw Fatima Dhahi Al Maqbali (Minor), from the bank’s Sohar branch, win OMR1,000. The two ladies draws saw Manar Rashid Al Saidi, from the bank’s Saham branch, and Rahma Mohammed, from the bank’s Al Qurum branch, win OMR5,000 each; while the exclusive draw saw Hasan Awadh Al Haj, from

the bank’s Salalah branch, win OMR10,000. The final draw of the evening was the general draw for month of February, which saw Habib Mubarak Al Hasani, from the bank’s Al Seeb branch, also win OMR10,000.

The monthly branch guaranteed draws conducted earlier on the same day as the event witnessed customers from each of the bank’s branches win OMR1,000, where Ali Al Ajmi was the winner from Al Suwaiq branch, Juma Al Jabri from Sur branch, Baderya Hamed Al Balushi from Al Buraimi branch, Barman Obaid Al Sharqi from Shinas branch, Talib Mohammed Al Mahruqi from Sinaw branch, Abdullah Samir Al Bahrani (Minor) from MBD branch, S.H.A from Barka branch, Ali Khamis Al Balushi from Saham branch, M.S.A

from Privilege Banking branch, Al Mur Al Saidi from Al Khaboura branch, Khalid Ahmed from Nizwa branch, Khamis Suwaid Al Amri from Al Seeb branch, Ahmed Said from Salalah branch, A. Al Salmaniya from Bahla branch, Yousuf Al Sawafi from Ibri branch, Catherine Nyambura from Al Azaiba branch, Salim Al Siyabi from Quriyat branch, Asma Al Hashmi from Al Qurum branch, H.H. Al Shibli from Al Khoudh branch, Salwa Khamis Al Maqbali from Sohar branch, Juma Ali from Jalan Bani Bu Ali branch, Apexaben Vipin and Vipinchandra (Joint Account) from Ruwi branch, Sami Al Hadi from Al Amerat branch, S.M A from Al Rustaq branch, Mohammed Ali (Minor) from Ibra branch, Khalid Hamed Al Mukhaini from Al Khuwair branch, and Shamsa Mohammed from Avenues Mall branch.

Khamis Masoud Al Rahbi, said, “I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of the bank, to congratulate each of the winners of our first monthly draws for the year 2016. I would also like to wish all our customers the very best of luck for the upcoming draws and encourage them to continue saving to maximise their chances of winning one of the over 1,500 prizes to be won this year.”

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

ROUND-UP

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Bank Muscat, Zubair to support entrepreneurs A Memorandum of Understanding was signed to extend support to entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses

MUSCAT: In a major thrust to promote entrepreneurial initiatives in the Sultanate, Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, and Zubair Small Enterprises Centre (Zubair SEC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), to extend support to entrepreneurs and owners of small businesses.

The MoU between the two leading establishments committed to SME development was signed at the bank’s head office by Waleed Al Hashar, deputy chief executive officer of Bank Muscat, and C. S. Badrinath, chief executive officer of The Zubair Corporation, in the presence of top management executives from

both sides, says a press release.

Waleed Al Hashar said: “Bank Muscat is proud to join hands with Zubair SEC to support SMEs in Oman. The main objective of the bank’s SME strategy is to complement the government efforts in empowering entrepreneurs to chart successful business ventures by providing necessary training, guidelines and tools. The partnership with Zubair SEC marks a clear progression of the well-defined strategy pursued by the bank in line with the directives of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to support the SME sector and strengthen its role in the economic development of Oman.”

Al Hashar added: “Bank Muscat has launched a series of initiatives to strengthen the SME sector in Oman. Serving as building blocks for entrepreneurs, these initiatives assume importance in the backdrop of the priority accorded

by the government to develop the SME sector in Oman. Bank Muscat is proud to facilitate access for entrepreneurs to follow their business dreams by acquiring the required skills and support. In light of the business environment in Oman which offers tremendous opportunities and challenges for the SME sector, Bank Muscat remains committed to creating selfemployment opportunities for citizens across the Sultanate.”

Commenting on the MoU, Mohammed Al Hasani, chief of Corporate Communications at The Zubair Corporation, said: “Collaboration with key contributors to the SME sector’s development in the Sultanate lies at the heart of Zubair SEC’s strategy, as we believe strongly in the importance of synchronising efforts towards extending best support and opportunities for Omani entrepreneurs. We are very pleased to sign

‘COMPETITIVE EDGE IN 21ST CENTURY’

focus on topics like the impact on strategic thinking and ways to retain sustainable competitiveness.

Apart from a dean at Westford School, Dr Heckroodt is also a senior lecturer at an international business school, an author of multiple books and articles, a practitioner and a specialist in international strategy and supply chain.

Dr Heckroodt brings a wealth of

VA L U E - A D D E D P L A N S

Ooredoo makes UAE travel easier with new Musafir bundles MUSCAT: Ooredoo launched its all-new value-added plans, designed to help travellers to the UAE stay connected and keep in touch.

These incredible new bundles, named Musafir UAE, from the leading telecoms operator have double the data than the current Musafir bundles and are available in daily, 2-day and weekly options, says a press release.

In addition to the double data, Ooredoo has also reduced the rate of the ‘calls back home’ to be the same price as local Omani calls, providing peace of mind and allowing customers to ‘Roam Like Home’ when they are in the UAE. For customers travelling to other countries in the GCC the original Musafir plan continues to be available.

Describing how Ooredoo came up with the offer, Feras Al Shaikh, director of Consumer Sales, said: “We always make it a priority to connect with our customers whether in our stores, through our website or contact centre, on social media, or via the Ooredoo Oman app. The input we get from these conversations and interactions helps us deliver the products and services our customers want at the time they need them.”

“Lately, we have seen the in-

creasing importance of data when travelling, as people, for example, keep up with e-mails, share their experiences on social media, or perhaps look on-line for restaurant reviews and the best deals in shops.

“So this promotion has been developed in response to these trends and it is our pleasure to launch it at a time when so many are planning trips to the UAE ahead of the summer months.”

Feras went on to explain that Musafir subscribers can join the promotion at any time until June 16, by dialling *141# or via the Ooredoo Oman app.

He stressed that data roaming should be switched on only when the confirmation message is received, and that the network named on the phone should always be Ooredoo.

This latest promotion in a string of successful value-added products and services reaffirms Ooredoo’s commitment to enriching people’s lives through technology. The company combines extensive global expertise and talented, caring people with a genuine understanding of Omani culture to provide the highest levels of user-friendly technology and customer satisfaction, at home and away.

PAY- T V PA C K A G E

Seminar on supply chain, logistics on March 24 MUSCAT: A seminar on ‘Supply Chain and Logistics - Your Competitive Edge in the 21st Century’,

by Dr Steyn Heckroodt, dean of MBA and Corporate Training at Westford School of Management in UAE, will be held at Crowne Plaza in Muscat on March 24.

The session, organised by The Shape Business Consultants in association with Exeed Oman, will

the MoU with Bank Muscat, which opens further channels of support to SMEs approaching both sides.

We highly appreciate the tremendous efforts that Bank Muscat has been putting to further leverage the role of key financial institutions in relation to SME development, and we believe that Zubair SEC can contribute strongly to channelling valuable small businesses in the right financing direction and equip them to be bankable and banking friendly, hence reducing financing risks and increasing potential for business growth.”

Bank Muscat al Wathbah SME department has launched a series of initiatives aimed at imparting the required skills and guidance for entrepreneurs drawn from diverse fields to embark on successful SME business ventures.

Zubair SEC will direct its members possessing feasible business proposals to Bank Muscat to obtain support for SME ventures.

Mutual efforts by both parties will be in place to raise awareness on financing, entrepreneurship and business administration.

On fulfilling the funding criteria based on the bank’s credit policy, financial assistance will be extended to micro and small enterprises in the Sultanate, including members of Zubair SEC’s Direct Support Programme.

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experience and expertise gained from practice and research to his seminars, workshops, consulting and training interventions.

His new book Strategic Thinking - Game Over, published through Oxford University Press in South Africa, deals with supply chain dynamism focusing on the need to be flexible in order to remain sustainable and competitive.

MSE launches My-Asia channels MUSCAT: Mustafa Sultan Enterprises - EF (Pay-TV division) launched My-Asia pay channels in Oman recently. The dealer event was held at Sur Ballroom, Muscat Holiday Hotel.

My-Asia is the dedicated PayTV package that caters to the growing need of Asian communities for premium content at affordable prices, says a press release.

The dealer event had an overwhelming response and was attended by more than 75 dealers from all over Oman including far away interior towns like Salalah, Shinas, Ibri, Sur and Nizwa.

From My-Asia, Carmen Chen, board member and Shiv Kumar, country manager and from MSE Group, Akber M. Sultan, vice chairman, Noorjehan M. Sultan, director and Satish Moorjani, group chief executive officer attended the event. The dealer event set a tone for substantial increase in Pay TV business in the coming years.

All the dealers enjoyed with lots of prizes being distributed

at the event. The new My-Asia box was unveiled by Noorjehan during the event. MSE also announced many exciting competitions for the dealers for 2016 with promising prizes.

‘Say NO!’ to piracy was one of the key objectives discussed. MyAsia package subscriptions were offered at much lower rate than the Indian origin illegal boxes like Dish TV, Airtel, Videocon, BIG TV etc. offered in Oman by few satellite shops.

The focus of 2016 will be increasing penetration, curb the illegal boxes and increase the footprint, customer base and My Asia

availability in various towns and wilayats of Oman with the introduction of these new channels.

My-Asia introduces premium content to the growing Asian communities with affordable prices. My-Asia brings them their favourite native language movies, general entertainment, news of their homeland, and music under one roof.

Shivakumar surprised the attendees by announcing free dish and accessories with free ArabSat installation for all new subscribers during the event. The special launch offer is valid for a limited period till April 15.

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Khawaja keeps Australia alive in tight race for semis In-from opening batsman Usman Khawaja struck an impressive half century as Australia overcame a mighty scare due to a middle-order batting collapse to eventually beat Bangladesh by three wickets in a Group II match and bounce back in their World Twenty20 campaign

BENGALURU: Australia survived another middle-order collapse to beat Bangladesh by three wickets in the World Twenty20 Super 10 on Monday to get their campaign up and running.

Both teams were looking to bounce back from losing their opening Group Two games, Australia skipper Steve Smith winning the toss and choosing to field.

Smith’s men picked up wickets at regular intervals to restrict Bangladesh to a modest 156 for five despite a late flurry by Mahmudullah who hit seven fours in an unbeaten 49.

Leg-spinner Adam Zampa (323) and all-rounder Shane Watson (2-31) were the pick of the bowlers.

Openers Usman Khawaja (58) and Watson (21) then got Australia off to a good start, sharing a stand of 62 in 44 deliveries before the latter was run out.

Khawaja was bowled by AlAmin Hossain in the 14th over having struck seven fours and a six in a 45-ball knock that gave Australia a solid platform, although they had the same sort of middleorder slump they suffered in the first game against New Zealand.

HONOUR

Barakat among winners of ministry awards MUSCAT: Star athlete Barakat Al Harthy was among the winners of the Ministry of Sports Affairs Sports and Youth Achievement Awards. The supervising committee, under the chairmanship of Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Ameri, announced the list of the winners for the 2015 during a press conference on Monday.

In the field of sports, Barakat Al Harthy was selected as the best athlete while the other awards were won Oman junior football team coach Yaqoob Al Sabahi (coach), Mansour Al Hajri (administrator), Abu Baker and Salim Al Ameri (referee).

In the national teams category, the award went to the national junior football team and the national shooting team for women.

In the sports teams of clubs category, the award went to 1st football team of Seeb Club. In the sports associations and committees, the winner is the Oman Camel Racing Association.

In the field of youth, the individuals awards went to Zaid Hamad Al Na’abi (social field), Salim Ahmed Al Habsi (scientific field). In the field of arts, the award went to Salim Ahmed Khalfan Al Busaidi and Hanina bint Ahmed Hamood Al Juffaili.

Sada Al Shabab Team won in the social field and Nano Team in the scientific field. — ONA

GOOD KNOCK: Australian batsman Usman Khawaja celebrates his fifty runs during the ICC World T20 match against Bangladesh at Chin-

naswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. – PTI

Smith, out for six against the Kiwis, was bowled by Mustafizur Rahman for 14.

David Warner (17) was next to fall and was soon followed by Mitchell Marsh (six).Glenn Maxwell then scored a brisk 26 before being stumped by Mushfiqur Rahim off left-arm spinner Shakib Al Hasan.

All-rounder John Hastings, brought in by Australia for leftarm spinner Ashton Agar, was dropped on nought by Hossain and finally went for three when he was caught at mid-wicket by Soumya Sarkar.

By then Australia needed five runs off the last two overs and James Faulkner and Peter Nevill saw them through to a far-fromconvincing win that lifted them to third in the group behind New Zealand and Pakistan but ahead of India.

For Bangladesh, who dropped two catches during the Australian run chase, Shakib Al Hasan grabbed three wickets for 27 runs while Mustafizur Rahman took two four 30 runs.

Bangladesh, who are bottom, have a mountain to climb to reach the semifinals. - Reuters, PTI

BANGLADESH M. Mithun c Watson b Zampa 23 S. Sarkar c Maxwell b Watson 1 S. Rahman c Faulkner b Watson 12 Shakib Al Hasan c Coulter-Nile b Zampa 33 Shuvagata Hom lbw Zampa 13 Mahmudullah (not out) 49 Mushfiqur Rahim (not out) 15 Extras (lb-7, w-3) 10 Total (5 wkts, 20 overs) 156 Did not bat: Mashrafe Mortaza, Saqlain Sajib, Al Amin Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman

Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-25, 3-62, 4-78, 5-105.

Bowling: NM Coulter-Nile 4-0-21-0; S. Watson 4-0-31-2 (w-3); J. Hastings 3-0-24-0; M. Marsh 1-0-12-0; G. Maxwell 1-0-12-0; A. Zampa 4-0-23-3; J. Faulkner 3-0-26-0.

AUSTRALIA U. Khawaja b Al Amin Hossain 58 S. Watson run out 21 S. Smith b Mustafizur Rahman 14 D. Warner c&b Shakib Al Hasan 17 G. Maxwell st M. Rahim b Shakib 26 M. Marsh c Shakib b Mustafizur Rahman 6

INSIDE LIFESTYLE

J. Faulkner (not out) 5 J. Hastings c S. Sarkar b Shakib 3 P. Nevill (not out) 1 Extras (lb-2, w-4) 6 Total (7 wkts, 18.3 overs) 157 Did not bat: NM Coulter-Nile, A. Zampa Fall of wickets: 1-62, 2-95, 3-115, 4-119, 5-135, 6-148, 7-152.

Bowling: Mashrafe Mortaza 1-0-9-0; Mahmudullah 2-0-22-0 (w-1); Al Amin Hossain 2-0-14-1; Mustafizur Rahman 4-0-30-2 (w1); Shakib Al Hasan 4-0-27-3; Saqlain Sajib 3.3-0-40-0 (w-1); Shuvagata Hom 2-0-13-0.

WORLD T20

Fletcher unsure about place in team despite stellar show BENGALURU: West Indies star performer Andre Fletcher, who made an unbeaten 84 in their win over Sri Lanka, on Sunday said he is still unsure of getting picked for the next match in the ICC World Twenty20.

“I cannot answer that (whether you are expecting to open for the team for good). I can’t even say whether I will play the next game. I am keeping my fingers crossed,” he told reporters.

Asked about the side’s chances of lifting the Cup for the second time, Fletcher said if they continue with the winning streak, they would lift it again.

“Before the World Cup, we knew what we are capable of. We know the strength of our team.

We always back ourselves to win the World Cup. It was good to see two wins under our belt. So, once we get to the semifinal we take it from there into the final.

For sure once we continue to play cricket we are accustomed playing, we would lift the cup for second time,” he said.

Asked whom they fancy to meet in the final if they qualify, Fletcher said, “It doesn’t matter who comes. We have played everybody. Whosoever the opponent is, we would play them in our style.”

Asked about the mood in the camp, Fletcher said it would be good if they win all the matches going into the knockout stage and were treating each match as final. “We have a great team spirit and are playing in unison.

We have to continue that momentum and try not to get complacent. We are playing each game as finals. We want to play as hard as possible and once we could win all four it will be good for us,” Fletcher said.

He also said he was grateful for the opportunity he got in place of Gayle. “I grabbed the opportunity to bat and I’m grateful for that. I am happy that I did the job for the team,” he said. — PTI Replying to a query, Fletcher said he wanted to watch Gayle bat from the other end and wouldn’t admit that the spectators wanted to see his back, making way for the mighty West Indian to walk into the middle to entertain them. - PTI

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

SPORTS

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Pakistan eye comeback as Kiwis await Pakistan would

Let there be criticism, I know what’s good for team: Afridi

hope to overcome the disappointment of losing to India in World T20 by defeating New Zealand in their third match

MOHALI: Pakistan will be desperately looking to ensure the painful defeat to India becomes a distant past when they run into an in-form New Zealand here on Tuesday with an aim to bounce back into the World T20 and pacify their bitter fans back home.

Pakistan are coming into the Group 2 Super 10 game having suffered their 11th defeat to the archrivals in ICC’s world events. The 2009 champions entered the tournament after an early elimination in the Asia Cup. On the other hand, the New Zealanders are on a roll with two massive wins over hosts India and Australia, making them one of the strong contenders to lift the coveted trophy on April 3. Another win

MOHALI: Trying to stay “aloof” from the scathing backlash that he has faced in real and virtual world following the World T20 loss to India, Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi on Monday said that he is not bothered by the criticism as he knows what is best from the team.

From pundits, media to common Pakistani fan, everyone has been critical of Afridi and his team, be it on television, newspapers or in social media.

“I think even when the tournament had not started, media were saying things. But in reality, neither do I check twitter, facebook nor do I check what media is reporting. I have kept myself to one side (aloof ).I know what will be their response (back home),” Afridi told mediapersons ahead of

and they will be in the knockout stages of the mega-event.

New Zealand have emerged as the team to beat after they stunned tournament favourites India first up, before getting the better of traditional rival Australia in a transTasman battle.

team’s important group league clash against New Zealand.

“But, I will say it again, whatever is happening there (in Pakistan), let it happen. I know what I and my team have to do here. That is the most important thing for me. Rest of the things can be taken care of later as to who is saying what. For us, main thing is performance and we

While the spinners stood out in both games with a bagful of wickets on pitches that aided turn, leftarm fast medium bowler Mitchell McClenaghan proved to be Australia’s nemesis with a three-wicket burst in hilly Dharamsala.

McClenaghan aside, the likes of

will have to show it,” the mercurial Pakistan captain added.

Afridi showed his pragmatic side when he said that this game can take as much as it gives.

“He was speaking in reference to former skipper Younis Khan, who was in a similar situation in 2009 before Pakistan went onto win that edition of

left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner, leg-spinner Ish Sodhi and Nathan McCullum troubled the Aussies as well as the Indians, with their guile and accuracy.

The fact that skipper Kane Williamson has yet to give frontline pacers Tim Southee and Trent

ICC World T20 in England.

“I think this cricket has not made just Younis Khan, but many big cricketers cry. I have seen many crying and leaving cricket. I thank Almighty that I have been playing for Pakistan for a long time, this is a big honour for me, I had not even thought so.

“Whatever be the result, I will be satisfied when I give my 100 per cent on the ground, whatever be result later, I have no issue, but I and my boys they have to give their 100 per cent. “ I don’t think even our people (back home) should have any issue. Yes, the mistakes that we have made, we will have to stop those. But if one starts to create panic situation in the team, then it becomes difficult to sort out things”. - PTI

Boult a game in this tournament gives ample demonstrations of New Zealand’s depth in bowling.

Considering the Pakistani batsmen’s susceptibility against quality bowling, the Kiwi attack will definitely fancy their fancy their chances at the Punjab Crick-

et Association Stadium.

However, batting is an area New Zealand would do well to address.

Barring Corey Anderson and Luke Ronchi, the batsmen struggled against India. When Australia confronted them, Martin Guptill to-scored with 39, while Williamson, Colin Munro and Grant Elliott all got starts but could not go on to make a big one. As a result, the tournament is till to witness a half century from the blade of a New Zealander.

As far as the Pakistanis are concerned, they began the tournament with a convincing win over Bangladesh when the batting and bowling both clicked.

However, in the curtailed game against India at Eden Gardens, they buckled under pressure and Virat Kohli’s batting masterclass.

Skipper Shahid Afridi was at his dazzling best against Bangladesh alongside the experienced Mohammad Hafeez. The bowlers too complemented in a big win. Afridi, who has faced criticism from various quarters back home for losing to India, will be eager to regain his touch.

They could not replicate their performance against a stronger India. Shoib Malik made valuable contribution with the bat but was profligate with the ball. Umar Akmal also made useful runs at a brisk pace. However, after the early burst

by Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Sami, the Pakistani bowlers failed to dislodge Kohli, who was well supported by Yuvraj Singh. - PTI

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

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SPORTS C O M M E N TA RY

The security lapse Pakistan left unchecked

B

efore Shahid Afridi and his boys actually made the trip to India to take part in the World T20 Championship, the Pakistan cricket bosses had sent a delegation to India to assess the security situation across the border, postponed the departure of the team by a day, cancelled a trial match, and the Pak High Commission in New Delhi held talks with Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamta Banerjee who gave them a written assurance on security. In hind sight, it seems they had failed to do a simple, one-step security check that would have made life easier for their team. And that was getting some sort of guarantee from the most dangerous man who could launch ruthless, relentless attacks when he willed them.

Even that might not have worked in favour of Afridi on Saturday at Eden Gardens.

With his god, aka Sachin Tendulkar, watching him from the elite gallery waving the national flag and smiles of pride exploding on the face when the ball got dispatched to the boundary and the victory target got down from rocket science to simple, basic maths, it was unlikely whether Virat Kohli would have done anything different from what he actually did on the Saturday night.

The victory-history hype and hysteria over the 11th Indo-Pak affair in the world cups revolved around one man, as it was the case in the 10th encounter just last month in the neutral territory of Mirpur. For Pakistan, the shortcut to put the humiliating limited-overs history to rest and turn the page to a new, happy, inspiring chapter was about getting one of the Indian openers early, which under the recent circumstances looked easy, and sending Kohli back to the dugout before he could put his foot down.

Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan had been shaky against Mohammed Amir in the Mirpur encounter, and their banal, rustic batting in the match against New Zealand gave a fair hint of the tragedy waiting to happen at Eden Gardens. It was merely a question of if it was going to happen off the first ball or in the first over, and the glib talk came to an end in the third over when Sharma tried to prove, and failed, what he had said before the start of the match, that Amir was just another bowler. Amir is a class apart, no doubt, and let’s hope Sharma will get his act together the next time when they face off.

With Plan A well in place

Batting first, Muscat CT put on 185 for the loss of six wickets in 20 overs. In reply, — both openers as well as Suresh Raina were back in the dressing room with just 23 runs on the board — everything depended on the success of Plan B for Pakistan, which was about getting Kohli out without giving him time to settle in and get his partners in the mood and mindset.

And then, everything slowly and steadily started to slip away.

Kohli hit the first of his seven fours in the seventh over, off Mohammed Sami, which was a masterpiece of balance and placement in perfect mix. That seemed to have turned Yuvraj on as the old war horse executed a graceful cover-drive in the same over to guide India to a healthy total of 40 at the end of the over.

Soon, it was time for the first of the three sixes in the Indian innings. The humble, feeble, edgy 67m sweep by Kohli over square leg in the 10th over off Shoaib Malik was no monster, but its impact lay in the way it inspired Yuvraj to do a Kohli in the next over, against Wahab Riaz.

The two sixes, and four more boundaries hit by Kohli, set the stage for MS Dhoni to unleash his power: a 90m hit that reduced the 18-over drama to the simple task of scoring just one run from 13 deliveries.

So, what inspires Kohli? A tough pitch, a good bowling attack and getting the team out of trouble. This is what most good batsmen would love to say, but when Kohli says it, you don’t doubt even a syllable. There are not many cricketers in the current era who walk the talk just as good as Kohli does.

It’s easy to launch a predetermined attack and pull it off if your luck favours on a docile pitch against routine bowlers, but it takes courage of an unfamiliar, unseen kind to walk in at No. 3 to dangerous situations on tough pitches against Mohammad Amirs and guide the team to victory. Kohli is doing that regularly, and he’s loving it.

That’s the difference between Kohli and the others — the guys who walk with him now and even the god who walked before him.

The writer is a freelance contributor based in India. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman

HOCKEY

No Sreejesh, Raghu, Lakra in Azlan Shah Cup squad NEW DELHI: Hockey India (HI) on Monday picked a young squad for the 25th Sultan Azlan Shah Cup to be held in Malaysia from April 6-16, with established players like Akashdeep Singh, P.R. Sreejesh, Dharamvir Singh, V.R. Raghunath and Birendra Lakra missing, in a bid to try out “different permutations and

Muscat CT and Assarain record contrasting wins

combinations”, according to its president, Narinder Batra.

“This squad is nothing about seniors or juniors. We are trying out different combinations and permuations in the bid to prepare before Olympics.

“It is not about those players being rested or injured,” Batra told IANS. — IANS

OCT Muscat A were bowled out for 92

MUSCAT: Muscat CT eased to an easy 93-run victory over OCT Muscat A in a Muscat Pharmacy and Stores-sponsored Premier Division match at the Ministry of Sports Affairs ground.

Batting first, Muscat CT put on 185 runs for the loss of six wickets in 20 overs.

Swapnil Khade and Mohammed Ruhan top scored with 62 and 56 respectively.

ASSARAIN STARS: Ahmad Raza, Dikshanshu Negi and Arun Poulose. – Supplied photo

In reply, OCT Muscat A were bowled out for 92 in 16.4 overs.

Ashish Odedara claimed four wickets for Muscat CT. Brief scores: Muscat CT 185 for 6 in 20 overs (Swapnil Khade 62) bt OCT Muscat A 92 in 16.4 overs (Ashish Odedara 4/5). Points: Muscat CT – 3, OCT Muscat A – 0.

Passage to India lose In another Premier Division match, Assarain prevailed over Passage to India for a seven-run victory. Batting first, Assarain scored 145 all out in 19.2 overs.

Arun Poulose top scored with 33.

Mohammed Bilal claimed three wickets for PTI. In reply, Passage to India were

bowled out for 138 in 20 overs.

Amir Ali top scored with an unbeaten 39. Ahmed Raza claimed four wickets for Assarain.

Brief scores: Assarain 145 in 19.2 overs (Arun Poulose 33; Mohammed Bilal 3/29) bt Passage to India 138 in 20 overs (Amir Ali 39 n.o.; Ahmed Raza 4/27). Points: Assarain - 2, Passage to India – 0.

OOREDOO CRICKET TOURNAMENT OFF TO AN EXCITING START

The second Ooredoo Cricket Tournament kicked off with some exciting action at Pakistani School Muscat ground on March 11.

The tournament, which concludes on April 29, attracted 16 teams. Feras Al Shaikh, Director of Consumer Sales at Ooredoo, said: “This will definitely be an exciting and tough competition. Cricket is a popular sport that has found its way into many households and is something that also requires discipline and many attributes that play a part in a healthy and successful life; perseverance, commitment, teamwork and good sportsmanship” One of our goals at Ooredoo is to inspire people to grow through sports. From the response we had from our first competition last year, we knew we had to continue as public demand was so high. We are sure the tournament will continue to grow through the years and hopefully see some of the successful players grow with us.” — Supplied photo

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TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

SPORTS EXCITING ACTION BRINGS CURTAINS DOWN ON MUSCAT COMMUNITY FOOTBALL LEAGUE SEASON

Muscat Community Football League (MCFL) season, which began back in October 2015, concluded with an exciting MCFL/Ooredoo Tournament organised at Oman Club recently. A total of 26 teams took part in three age group - Under-12, Under-10 and Under-8, competitions. The winners are as follows: U-8: Pool A: Carillion Alawi, Pool B: PDO Pumas; U-10: Pool A: Borders, Pool B: Ooredoo; U-12: Pool A: Atana Hotels and Pool B: Synergy. — JUN ESTRADA/Times of Oman

FOOTBALL

England call up Burnley keeper Heaton for injured Hart LONDON: Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton was added to England’s squad for the Euro 2016 warm-up matches against world champions Germany and the Netherlands after first choice Joe Hart was ruled out through injury on Monday.

Hart suffered a leg injury during Manchester City’s Premier League defeat by Manchester United on Sunday and could be out for several weeks, according to City boss Manuel Pellegrini.

Heaton, uncapped at senior international level, was called up to the England squad last summer after an impressive campaign in Burnley’s one-season stay in the Premier League.

Burnley are currently top of the Championship (second tier).

Heaton joins Stoke City’s Jack Butland and Southampton’s Fraser Forster as manager Roy Hodgson’s options in goal.

Hodgson said he would not be calling up a replacement for Hart’s City colleague Raheem Sterling who also limped out of Sunday’s derby. England play Germany on Saturday and the Netherlands next Tuesday. - Reuters

Al Nahda Hotels and Resorts golf tournament on March 25 The 18-hole stableford tournament will be played at the Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club with participation of golfers from across the Sultanate

ALL SET: Niti Ajit Karsandas Hamlai, Managing Director and Owner of Al Nahda Hotels and Resorts,

and representatives of sponsors pose for a group photo.

MUSCAT: After successfully hosting one of the most talked about golf tournaments of the Sultanate for three years, Al Nahda Hotels and Resorts are all set to organise the fourth edition of their Golf Cup. The 18-hole stableford tournament will be played at the Muscat Hills Golf and Country Club on March 25.

Giving the details of tourna-

ment, Niti Ajit Karsandas Hamlai, Managing Director and Owner of Al Nahda Hotels and Resorts, said: “Three years ago we launched our first tournament. The positive response from the golfing community gives us a lot of motivation to keep going.

“The support and backing from fellow corporates with sponsor-

ship and partnerships has been very encouraging with Nuhas Oman, BMW and Swiss Air being at the helm of the list. We look forward to a good golfing day on the 25th of March.”

The main sponsor, Nuhas, one of the leading cable and wiring provider in Oman, truly believes in the potential of the golfers based in

Oman. “This is our first time with Al Nahda’s Golf Tournament and we are equally excited. This annual tournament reaches out to so many people and it is truly delightful to be such an integral part of this esteemed event,” a company statement said.

“As part of its principle to contribute to industrial, economic and

social development of Oman, Nuhas also participates in events that encourage talent and bring people together,” the statement added.

BMW, sponsor of some of the most prominent golf champions across the world, is the main sponsor of the Al Nahda Hotels and Resorts’ Fourth Annual Golf Cup Tournament.

While Nuhas Cables and BMW are the main sponsors, Swiss Airlines will the support sponsor and they will be awarding the winners with ‘two tickets to any destination that they fly to’. Capital Store and Soft Stone LLC have also showed their enthusiasm to the event and come on board as support sponsors.

The players will also get a chance to win a host of exciting prizes. With an assortment of categories for players with different skills, the tournament will be seeing prizes awarded to the best scorers in the longest drive and nearest to the pin category as well as those who ultimately make it to the first, second and third places.

The tournament also includes a special category for the ladies’ as they compete against each other in the overall tournament.

AT P S C

SMARTEN UP DRIVE SAFE

A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

Stage set for Dreams cricket MUSCAT: Dreams Event & Entertainment, in association with Pakistan School Muscat (PSM), will organise the Dreams Cricket Tournament from April 7.

The softball tournament, which will be played at the PSM ground, will last till May 12.

According to the organisers, the participating teams are allowed to field three players from Oman Cricket’s Premier and A Division squads.

The winning team will be presented with a trophy and OMR. 1,000 while the runnersup will receive OMR. 500.

There will also be a host of other prizes, including highest run getter, man of the match and best dressed team to mention just a few.

The last date for registering the entries is March 25. For further details email at mydreamc4u@gmail.com or call 92884883 / 98222074.

C

LIFESTYLE

SECTION

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

Dining WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM

CELEBRATING THE PERSIAN PLATTER ),)/4Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; ,-# (Ĺ&#x2014; 1Ĺ&#x2014; ,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014;#-Ĺ&#x2014; & , . Ĺ&#x2014;.)Ĺ&#x2014;' ,%Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014; !#((#(!Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;-*,#(!Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;&#% Ĺ&#x2014; 0 ,3Ĺ&#x2014; other festival, food takes the centre stage to celebrate this day.

Story Swati Dasgupta

T

he Iranian community in Muscat recently celebrated the Persian New Year in their own special way, and the exclusive traditional menu added to the revelry.

Start with fresh bread and herbs, along with mast khiar, and kashk bademjan. While mast khiar is a simple traditional Iranian side dish made of mint, cucumbers, yoghurt and ďŹ&#x201A;avoured with mint to be served with rice or bread, kashk bademjan is a delicious blend of fried eggplant, fried garlic, and onion, and ďŹ&#x201A;avoured with fried mint, and crushed walnuts. It is served with kashk or whey. Eggplant is widely used in many Persian dishes and this one especially has found its way to almost every Persian home or restaurant in town.

Served with lavash, a kind of Persian bread, kashk bademjan can be eaten warm or at room temperature. And if you do not have lavash, it can also be had with toasted pita bread, ďŹ&#x201A;at bread, or baguettes.

Next to follow is ash reshteh, a delicious hearty soup that is traditionally prepared to welcome the Persian New Year. It is a thick vegetable and noodle soup believed to bring good fortune and is mostly served with whey and sometimes with vinegar. Packed with pulses and vegetables like kidney beans, parsley, spinach, and coriander, along refreshing burst of fried mint and garlic, this soup is served warm.

The main course dish is sabzi polo mahi, a combination of fresh dill with rice and fried ďŹ sh. Sabzi polo or pilaf is a herbed rice dish and the green colour comes from a variety of herbs that is used in its making for the added ďŹ&#x201A;avour.

Served with fried ďŹ sh, sabzi polo mahi, is again a celebratory new year cuisine. Herbs like fenugreek leaves and garlic chives are used.

Coupled with choice of soft drinks, the beďŹ tting end of this meal is with assorted Iranian sweets and tea.

-swati@timesofoman.com

Where to Go

Persepolis Madinat Al Sultan Qaboos Contact: +968 2469 9054 persepolis-oman.com

Sabzi Polo Mahi

For Sabzi Polo Ingredients Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x2039;ĂťÄ&#x17E;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*-Ĺ&#x2014; &)(!Ä&#x161;!, #(Ĺ&#x2014; -' .#Ĺ&#x2014; rice Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /( "Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;-*,#(!Ĺ&#x2014;)(#)(-Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ) ,- ly chopped Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /( "Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014; #&&Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ) ,- &3Ĺ&#x2014; chopped Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /( "Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014;* ,-& 3Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ) ,- &3Ĺ&#x2014; chopped Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /( "Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014; ),# ( ,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; coarsely chopped Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;1")& Ĺ&#x2014;& %Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; /.Ĺ&#x2014;#(.)Ĺ&#x2014; "/(%Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;-' &&Ĺ&#x2014;)(#)( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ă˝Ĺ&#x2014; &)0 -Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;! ,&# Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014; /( "Ĺ&#x2014; ) Ĺ&#x2014; , -"Ĺ&#x2014; '#(.Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; ) ,- &3Ĺ&#x2014; chopped Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźÄ&#x2039;ĂťÄ&#x17E;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*-Ĺ&#x2014; 1 . ,Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; 0 ! . & Ĺ&#x2014; broth Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014; - ĂŽ,)(Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; !,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; #-solved in 2tbsp hot water Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;. -*Ĺ&#x2014; , %Ĺ&#x2014;3)!"/,.

Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂźĹ&#x2014;. -*Ĺ&#x2014; /.. , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;!,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; #(( ')( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;&#' Preparation Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ) %Ĺ&#x2014;,# Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014;ĂżÄ&#x161;Ä&#x20AC;Ĺ&#x2014;")/,-Ä&#x201E; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; % Ĺ&#x2014; -*,#(!Ĺ&#x2014; )(#)(-Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; #&&Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; * ,-& 3Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; coriander, leek, onion, and garlic and blend. Pulse greens together until all is ďŹ nely chopped and combined. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; , #(Ĺ&#x2014;." Ĺ&#x2014;-) % Ĺ&#x2014;,# Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; ))%Ĺ&#x2014;#(Ĺ&#x2014; vegetable broth till the rice has softened. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; -' &&Ĺ&#x2014; )1&Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; . % Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; & & Ä&#x161; /&&Ĺ&#x2014; of cooked rice and mix together 1#."Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťĹ&#x2014;. -*))(Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;- ĂŽ,)(Ĺ&#x2014;1 . ,Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; , %Ĺ&#x2014;3)!"/,.Ä&#x201E;Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; #2Ĺ&#x2014;.)! ." ,Ĺ&#x2014;/(.#&Ĺ&#x2014;3)/Ĺ&#x2014;! .Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;."# %Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; -ened yellowish pudding-like consistency to the rice. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; (Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;*).Ĺ&#x2014;" .Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť. -*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014; /.. ,Ĺ&#x2014;/(til it has melted. Once melted,

spread the yellow yoghurt rice along the bottom and simmer on &)1Ĺ&#x2014; " .Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; Ă˝Ä&#x161;ĂžĹ&#x2014; '#(/. -Ĺ&#x2014; -Ĺ&#x2014; 3)/Ĺ&#x2014; prepare the other ingredients. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; &. ,( . Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; ))% Ĺ&#x2014; ,# Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; freshly chopped greens in your stockpot. Start with a ladle of cooked rice followed by a ladle full of chopped green stacked on top. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )(.#(/ Ĺ&#x2014;/(.#&Ĺ&#x2014; &&Ĺ&#x2014;,# Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;!, (-Ĺ&#x2014; have been added in the pot. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; -#(!Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014; ")*-.# %Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; -)' ."#(!Ĺ&#x2014; similar, poke small holes into the pyramid. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ))%Ĺ&#x2014; ."#-Ĺ&#x2014; )0 ,Ĺ&#x2014; ' #/'Ĺ&#x2014; " .Ĺ&#x2014; ),Ĺ&#x2014; 10 minutes. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ,#44& Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;) Ĺ&#x2014;- ĂŽ,)(Ĺ&#x2014;1 . ,Ĺ&#x2014;)0 ,Ĺ&#x2014; the pyramid and sprinkle the ground cinnamon. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; )0 ,Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; -#'' ,Ĺ&#x2014; )(Ĺ&#x2014; &)1Ĺ&#x2014; " .Ĺ&#x2014; for another 50 minutes. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ,0 Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014;& ')(Ĺ&#x2014;-&# -Ä&#x201E;

For Mahi Ingredients Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ĂťÄ&#x17E;ĂźĹ&#x2014; /*Ĺ&#x2014; "# %* Ĺ&#x2014;Ăł)/, Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;!,)/( Ĺ&#x2014; #(( ')( Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014;- Ĺ&#x2014;- &. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ăť.-*Ĺ&#x2014; & %Ĺ&#x2014;* ** , Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;ÿúú!Ĺ&#x2014;1"#. Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°-"Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°&& .-Ĺ&#x2014; Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ă˝Ĺ&#x2014;. -*Ĺ&#x2014;!"

Preparation Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; % Ĺ&#x2014; "# %* Ĺ&#x2014; Ăł)/,Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; #(( ')(Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; sea salt and black pepper together. Mix well. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; , ! Ĺ&#x2014; 3)/,Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°-"Ĺ&#x2014; Ă°&& .-Ĺ&#x2014; #(.)Ĺ&#x2014; ." Ĺ&#x2014; ďŹ&#x201A;our mixture. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; .Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;-%#&& .Ĺ&#x2014;)0 ,Ĺ&#x2014;"#!"Ĺ&#x2014;" .Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014; add ghee. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014;Ĺ&#x2014; ( Ĺ&#x2014;0 ,3Ĺ&#x2014;").Ä&#x2026;Ĺ&#x2014; Ĺ&#x2014;3)/,Ĺ&#x2014;Ă°&& .-Ĺ&#x2014;.)Ĺ&#x2014; the pan and fry on each side until golden brown. Ä&#x160;Ĺ&#x2014; ,0 Ĺ&#x2014;1#."Ĺ&#x2014;- 4#Ĺ&#x2014;*)&)Ä&#x201E;

C6

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

FIND-IT-ALL

PRAYER TIMINGS

@RUWI

@SHATTI

Screen 3 Neerja (Action / Biography) –PG12 Cast : Sonam Kapoor, Shabana Azmi 3.45, 9.45 PM Maheshinte Prathikaaram – Mal-(2D) (Comedy / Family) –PG12 Cast : Fahadh Faasil, Anusree, Soubin 6.45 PM

@AZAIBA

CITY CINEMA Contact (10 am to 6PM) 24567664 | 68 www.citycinemaoman.net facebook.com/citycinemaoman SHATTI Kung Fu Panda 3 – 3D (Animation) PG Cast: Jack Black, Bryan Dustin Hoffman 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30PM The Wave (Action | Drama | Thriller) PG12 Cast: Kristoffer Joner, Thomas Bo Larsen 7:00 & 9:45PM The Witch (Horror | Mystery) 15+ Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson 11:45PM Solace (Crime | Drama | Mystery) 12+ Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Colin Farrell 3:00, 9:30 & 11:30PM Eye In The Sky (Drama| Thriller | War) PG12 Cast: Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman 5:30PM The Divergent Series: Allegiant (Action| Adcenture| Sci-Fi) PG12 Cast: Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz 7:30PM Triple 9 (Action | Crime | Drama) 15+ Cast: Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor 3:15, 9:15 & 11:30PM London Has Fallen (Action| Crime) PG12 Cast: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman 5:00PM MUSCAT GRAND MALL Kung Fu Panda 3 – 3D (PG) Animation Cast: Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman 12:45, 5:30, 7:30 PM Gold Class – 6:45 PM Kapoor and Sons – 2D (PG12) Hindi | Drama Cast: Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Kapoor, Fawad Khan 9:00 PM Solace – 2D (12+) Crime | Drama | Mystery Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Colin Farrell 9:30, 11:30 PM Gold Class – 3:30, 8:45, 11:00 PM The Dressmaker – 2D (15+) Drama Cast: Kate Winslet, Liam Hemsworth 4:30 PM Zootropolis – 3D (PG12) Animation |

Kapoor & Sons (Drama / Family) –PG12 Cast : Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt, Rishi Kapoor 3.30, 6.30, 9.30 PM

Solace (Crime | Drama | Mystery) 12+ Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Xander Berkeley.

Colin Farrell 3:00, 9:30 & 11:30PM

Pugazh (Tamil) (2D) (Action ) (PG) Cast: Jai, Surabhi Laxmi, RJ Balaji 7:00, 9:00 PM

Cast: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman 12:15, 2:15 PM The Divergent Series: Allegiant – 2D (PG12) Action| Adventure| Sci-Fi Cast: Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz 3:00 PM Triple 9 – 2D (15+) Action | Crime | Drama Cast: Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor 6:45, 11:45 PM

5:30, 7:00 pm Kung Fu Panda 3 (Animation, Action)(3D) (PG)-VIP LOUNGE Cast : Jack Black, Bryan Cranston 7:15 pm Solace (Crime, Drama)(2D)(12+) Cast : Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Xander Berkeley 3:00, 5:00, 9:30, 11:30 pm Solace (Crime, Drama)(2D)(12+)-VIP LOUNGE Cast : Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Colin Farrell 5:15, 9:15, 11:15 pm Kapoor and Sons (Drama)(2D)(PG12) Cast : Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt, Fawad Khan 9:00 pm Eye In The Sky (Drama, Thriller)(2D)(PG12) Cast : Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman 2:45, 11:45 pm

Jai Gangaajal (Hindi) (2D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Rahul Bhat, Ayush, Mahesh Khedekar 3:30 PM Kapoor and Sons (Hindi) (2D) (PG12) Cast: Alia Bhattm Siddhart Malhotra 2:30, 5:05, 7:40, 10:15, 11:30 PM Maheshinte Prathikaaram (Mal) (2D) (Drama | Comedy) (PG12) Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir 6:50, 9:15 PM Pugazh (Tamil) (2D) (Action ) (PG) Cast: Jai, Surabhi Laxmi, RJ Balaji 7:00, 9:00 PM

PANORAMA MALL London Has Fallen (Action) (2D)(PG12) Cast : Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman 2:30, 5:00, 7:30, 10:30 pm Triple 9 (Action, Crime)(2D)(15+) Cast : Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor 9:15, 11:30 pm Triple 9 (Action, Crime)(2D)(15+)-VIP LOUNGE Cast: Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor 3:00 pm The Divergent Series: Allegiant (Action, Adventure)(2D)(PG12) Cast : Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz 3:15, 7:00 pm Kung Fu Panda 3 (Action)(MX4D)(PG) Cast : Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman 4:30, 6:30, 8:30 pm Kung Fu Panda 3 (Animation)(3D)(PG) Cast : Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI) Arrival Operating time days

Dept time

Destination

Arrival Operating time days

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (ROUTE 36)

TEMPERATURE

15:00 15:00 15:00

05:30 05:30 05:30

Maximum

Quriyat Sur Jaalan

16:30 18:00 19:30

Daily Daily Daily

Sur Quriyat Ruwi

06:45 08:30 10:00

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

TO AL BURAIMI (ROUTE 41)

06:30 06:30 08:00 13:00 13:00 16.00 16.00

07:00 07:00 13:30 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00

Sohar Buraimi Buraimi Sohar Buraimi Sohar Buraimi

08:50 Daily 11:00 Daily 14:30 Daily via Ibri 15:45 Daily 17:40 Daily 18.35 Daily 20:20 Daily

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52) 17:30

Sinaw

Nizwa Yanqul

20:50

Daily

Nizwa Al Araqi

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

Sur Sur

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

Fahud Yibal

Daily Daily

Salalah Marmul Salalah Salalah

Daily Daily

Marmul

20:00 20:30 23:30 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

Dubai

16:50

Daily

Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai Sohar Dubai

Nizwa Ruwi

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

15:40 15:40

Nizwa Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

06:00 14:30

Ruwi Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

12:30 12:30

Fahud Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi Marmul Ruwi Ruwi

19:50 13:15 22:30 07:30

07:00

06:00

Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

15:00

Salalah

07:00

Daily

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

07:30 07:30 13:00 13:00 15:30 15:30

Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH/SHARJAH (ROUTE 204)

07:00 07:00 07:00

16:00 16.00 16.00

Fujairah Sharjah Dubai

11.45 13.30 14.00

Film information 24791641 / 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om Maheshinte Prathikaram (Mal) (Comedy ) Cast : Fahad Faasil & Anusree 3-30, 6-30 & 9-30 PM Cinema Main Pugazh (Tamil) (Com) Cast : Jai, Surabhi & R. J. Balaji 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30 PM Cinema-2 Action Hero Biju (Mal) (Act\ Comedy) Cast: Nivin Pauly & Anu Emmanuel 3:45 & 9:45 PM Cinema -3 Puthiya Niyamam ( Mal) ( Thriller) Cast : Mammotty & Nayantara 6:45 PM Cinema- 3 Kapoor & Sons ( Hindi) (Drama\Rom) Cast : Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt & Rishi Kapoor 3-45, 6-45 & 9-45 PM Cinema -4 Next Change: Rocky Handsome (Hindi); Thozha (Tamil); Oopri (Telugu) Programmes are subject to change

WITH LOVE

0

VEDHIKA SUBHASH March 22, 2010

RELATIVE HUMIDITY

70-50%

Send us a colour photograph of the child (below 17 years) whose birthday you are celebrating, along with his/her full name, date of birth, address, telephone number and parents’/your name to Times of Oman, With Love, PO Box 770, PC 112, Ruwi or through e-mail to lifestyle@timesofoman.com

Daily Daily Daily

Sharjah Fujairah Ruwi

16:30 18.15 23.00

LISTINGS

ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence 24569603 Directorate General of Customs 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries 24510228 Public Relations Admin 24560099 EMBASSIES IN OMAN

Daily Daily Daily Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (ROUTE 102)

TO DUBAI (ROUTE 201) 06:00 06:00 13:00 13:00 15:00 15:00

06:00 06:00

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101)

SALALAH TO DUBAI (ROUTE 102) 15:00

Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (ROUTE 100)

TO MARMUL (ROUTE 101) 06:00

10:25

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (ROUTE 62)

10:30 11:15

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (ROUTE 100) 07:00 10:00 10:00 19:00

Ruwi

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 12:00 18:45

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (ROUTE 62) 06:30 06:30

Minimum

STAR CINEMA

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54)

TO SUR (ROUTE 55) 07:30 14:30

07:00

SALALAH Kung Fu Panda 3 (3D) (PG) (Animation) 3:00, 4:55PM The Wave (2D) (PG12) (Action | Thriller) Cast: Kristopher Jonner, Thomas Bo Larsen 3:30, 9:45PM Frankenstein (2D) (18+) (Horror | Thriller) Cast: Carrie-Anne Moss, Xavier Samuel 5:30PM London Has Fallen (2D) (PG12) (Action) Cast: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman 1:30PM Triple 9 (2D) (15+) (Action | Crime | Drama) 1:15, 5:30, 11:30PM The Witch (2D) (15+) (Horror | Mystery) Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson 10:05PM Solace (2D) (12+) (Crime | Drama | Mystery) 3:30, 6:50, 11:45PM Eye in the Sky (2D) (TBC) (Drama) 1:00, 11:55PM Kapoor and Sons (2D) (PG12) (Hindi) 8:45PM Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2D) (PG12) (Mal) (Comedy / Drama) 7:45PM Pugazh (2D) (PG12) (Action| Thriller) 7:15PM

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54)

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (ROUTE 54) 08:00 08:00

08:55 Daily 11:40 Daily 20:20 Daily via Ibri 14:55 Daily 17:40 Daily 19:20 Daily 22:15 Daily

32 26

The Wave (Action / Drama / Thriller) Cast: Kristoffer Joner, Thomas Bo Larsen 4.00, 8.00, & 11.55 PM CP No: 371 (PG12) Frankenstein (Horror / Thriller) Cast: Carrie-Anne Moss, Xavier Samuel 2.00, 6.00, & 10.00 PM CP No: 372 (18+) The Witch (Horror / Mystery) Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie 1.00, 10.00, & 11.55 PM CP No: 373 (15+) Kapoor & Sons (Hindi / Comedy / Drama) Cast: Fawad Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt 3.00 & 7.30 PM CP No: 374 (PG12)` London Has Fallen (Action / Crime / Thriller) Cast: Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart 5.30 PM CP No: 351 (PG12)

0

TO SINAW (ROUTE 52)

TO YANQUL (ROUTE 54) 14:30 14:30

Sohar Ruwi Ruwi Sohar Ruwi Sohar Ruwi

Daily Daily Daily

SOHAR London Has Fallen – 2D (Action) (PG12) Cast: Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman 3:30PM Solace – 2D (Crime | Drama | Mystery) (12+) Cast: Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Xander Berkeley 2:30, 9:45, 11:45PM The Wave – 2D (Action | Drama ) (PG12) Cast: Kristoffer Joner, Thomas Bo Larsen 5:00, 9:15PM Kung Fu Panda 3 – 2D (Animation) (PG) 4:45PM Kung Fu Panda 3 – 3D (Animation) (PG) 2:45, 6:45PM Emilie– 2D (Thriller) (12+) 5:00, 11:45PM Eye in the Sky -2D (Drama| Thriller ) (PG12) Cast: Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman 7:15, 11:30PM Kapoor and Sons– 2D (Hindi) (PG12) 9:00PM Pugazh – 2D (Action| Thriller) (PG) 7:15PM Maheshinte Prathikaaram– 2D (Drama)

Film information 24540856 / Advance Booking 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

BURAIMI The Witch (Horror | Mystery) (15+) Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson 11.45PM The Wave (Action | Drama ( PG-12) 4.45, 9.30PM Maheshinte Prathikaaram(Mal) ( PG12 ) Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir 7.30PM Kung Fu Panda 3 (Action|) (PG) Cast: Jack Black, Bryan Cranston 5.30, 7.00PM Triple 9 (Action | Crime | Drama) (15+) Cast : Casey Affleck, Chiwetel Ejiofor 5.15, 11.30PM Kapoor & Sons (Hindi | Drama) (PG 12) Cast : Alia Bhatt, Sanjay Dutt, Fawad Khan 9.00PM Frankenstein (Horror | Thriller) 18+ 9.45PM Eye in the Sky (Dramar) PG12 7.30, 11.30 PM

WEATHER

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (ROUTE 36)

BAHJA CINEMA

Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir 8:45PM (PG12)

SUR The Wave ( Action | PG12) Cast : Kristoffer Joner, Thomas Bo Larsen 4:15, 8:15 PM Triple 9 ( Action |Crime | Drama ) (15+) Cast: Casy Affleck, Kate Winslet 6:15 PM Eye in the Sky ( Drama ) (PG12) Cast: Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, Alan Rickman 11:45 PM Maheshinte Parthikaaram (Malayalam) (PG12) Cast: Fahad Faasil, Soubin Shahir 10:35 PM Kung Fu Panda 3 (3D) (Animation) (PG) 4:30, 6:15 PM Emeli (Thriller) ( 12+) Cast : Sarah Bolger, Carly Adams, Carl Bailey 10:15 PM Kapoor And Sons ( Drama ) ( PG12) Cast : Alia Bhatt, Siddharth Malhotra 8:00 PM

RUWI Screen 1 Kapoor & Sons (Drama / Family) –PG12 Cast : Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt, Rishi Kapoor 3.30, 6.30, 9.30 PM Screen 2 Kung Fu Panda 3 (2D) (Animation) –PG Voice Overs: Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman 3.30, 5.30, 7.30 PM Jai Gangajal (Action) –PG12 Cast : Priyanka Chopra, Prakash Jha, Manav Kaul, Rahul Bhat 9.45 PM

AZAIBA Triple 9 (2D) (Action |Crime) (15+) Cast: Casey Affleck, Chiwetel EjioforTiming: 4:50, 9:30, 11:30 PM Kung Fu Panda 3 (3D) (Animation) (PG) Cast: Jack Black, Bryan Cranston 3:00, 5:00, 7:00 PM The Divergent Series-Allegiant (2D) (Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz 2:45, 11:45 PM

LONG DISTANCE BUS TIMINGS (OMAN NATIONAL TRANSPORT COMPANY SAOC) *SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Destination

12.19pm 3.45pm 6.24pm 7.34pm 4.54am

CHILDREN BELOW THE AGE OF 3 YEARS ARE NOT ALLOWED IN THE CINEMA | BOX-OFFICE COUNTER OPENS 30-MINUTES PRIOR TO THE SCREENING OF THE FIRST SHOW

CINEMA SCHEDULE

Dept time

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

Daily Daily Daily

Afghanistan Algeria Bahrain Bangladesh Brazil Brunei China Cyprus Egypt France Germany India Indonesia Iran Iraq Italy Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya South Korea Kuwait

24698 791/4 24605 593 24 605 074/133 24 698 660 24640100 24 603533 24 696782 24 699815 24 600 982/411 24681 800 24835000 24684500 2469 1050 24 696 944/7 24603642 24693727 24 601 028 24692760/1/3 24 692418 24 697664 24 691490 24 699628

Lebanon Libya Malaysia Morocco Nepal Netherlands Pakistan Palestine Philippines Qatar Russia Saudi Arabia Senegal Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Switzerland Syria Tanzania Thailand Tunisia Turkey UAE United Kingdom United States Yemen

24 693208 24603466 24698329/643 24696152/3 24696177 24603706 24603439 24601312 24605335 24 691 153/2/4 24602894 24601705 24694139 24697977 24647300 24691101 24697841/2 24697875 24603267 24697904 24601 174 24 602684/5 24603486 24697050/1/2 24400000 24609000 24643400 24600815

PHARMACIES Round the clock Al Hashar Pharmacy, Ruwi 24783334

Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya Muscat Pharmacy, Ruwi Salalah Atlas Pharmacy, Ghubra Muscat Region Apollo, Al Hamriya Muscat, A Seeb Market Muscat, Al Khuwair Muscat, Al Hail South Dhofar Region Muscat, Al Nahdha Road, Salalah

24782666 24702542 23291635; 24503585 24787766 24421691 24485740 24537080

23291635

HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre 24485052 Atlas Hospital Ruwi 24811743/ Ghubra 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi 24563641 Azaiba 24499269 Sohar 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre,

Hamriya 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb 24420740 Ceregem National Raak 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic 24563217 Elixir Health Centre 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre 24472274 Lifeline Hospital Salalah 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital 24760100 24 Hrs Emergency 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar 26751128 MBD 24799077 Al Khuwair 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC 22004000 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours) 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot 24704455 Air Arabia 24700828 Air France 24562153 Air India 24799801

Air New Zealand 24700732 Biman Bangladesh Airlines 24701128 British Airways 24568777 Cathay Pacific 24789818 Egypt Air 24794113 Emirates Air 24404400 Ethiopian Airlines 24660313 Gulf Air 80072424 Indian 24791914 Iran Air 24787423 Japan Airlines 24704455 Jazeera Airways 23294848 Jet Airways 24787248 Kenya Airways 24660300 KML Royal Dutch Airlines 24566737 Kuwait Airways 24701262 LOT Polish Airlines 24796387 Lufthansa 24796692 Malaysian Airlines 24560796 Middle East Airlines 24796680 Oman Air 24531111 Pakistan International Airlines 24792471 Qatar Airways 24771900 Qantas 24559941 Royal Jordanian 24796693 Saudi Arabian Airlines 24789485 Singapore Airlines 24791233 Shaheen Air 24816565 SriLankan Airlines 24784545 Swiss International Airlines 24796692 Thai Airways 24705934

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

C7

LIFESTYLE Indian Condiments are Spicing-up Global Cuisine

I

n the golden days when there were no refrigeration techniques, the use of spices in dishes also acted like preservatives. When the Europeans came to the Indian subcontinent, they soon discovered the local spices and were impressed with the aromas and tastes. They took them back home and soon the demand in Europe sky-rocketed.

At one time, the cost of spices was more than that of gold and precious stones and it was one of their most profitable trades. The use of Indian spices in the West gradually became popular but not in the mainstream dishes.

Recently, with increasing globalisation of trade and communications, Indian cuisine has penetrated the masses across the world. With the result, the population across the globe is getting intrigued and willing to learn more about the “masala”.

FOOD NOTE

Grand Hyatt Muscat welcomes Thai chef

Marjan Restaurant at Grand Hyatt Muscat is set to welcome renowned Chef Supattra heading The Thai Kitchen at Park Hyatt Dubai.

She has received local acclaim for her spectacular dishes in the past and has been responsible for recreating simple yet authentic Thai food.

Dirk Holscher, Director of Food and Beverage said, “Chef Supattra is renowned for her culinary skills and makes absolutely incredible Thai dishes. We’re delighted that she is returning once again for a five-day promotion and hope our guests enjoy her food just as much as we do”.

Chef Supattra will be featured at Marjan restaurant for dinner, from March 21 to 25.

The use of Indian condiments, or masalas is increasingly becoming popular in various world cuisines. The ingredients used in Indian cuisine are unique and their mixing is an art mastered in the subcontinent over centuries.

The word spices have been used as a misnomer to describe hot food. In actual terms, spices provide different aromas and flavours.

The hotness of the food comes from green, red, yellow chillies and black peppers.

The surge in Indian restaurants across Europe and the US has helped the spread of Indian aromas and tastes among the masses.

The culinary world is rapidly advancing in both techniques and different flavours.

Increasingly, the chefs are mixing flavours and ingredients from different regions of the world.

This phenomenon has created

fusion cuisine. As the world discovers the flavours of spices the chefs are not inhibited in experimenting with the spices. Thus, fusion food has taken another dimension in the culinary world. Indo-French, Indo-American and Indo-Chinese restaurants are sprouting up all over the world.

The masala chai once exclusive to India is one such example which is a popular drink in Europe and the US. A high-end chain in the US named Teavana extensively sells spice chai, maharaja chai and Ayurvedic chai.

The spices used include cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and other garam masala ingredients.

Cinnamon is commonly used in tea, coffee and confectionery across the world. Its use in meat dishes is popular now in the Western hemisphere. I have seen its use in African cuisine along with cumin seeds and bay leaves.

Black pepper is ever so popular as a table top condiment but its popularity in the dishes for cooking and marinating meat has increased significantly. Clove oil and cloves are now used as flavouring agents in various South American cuisines as well.

Of late, there has been a surge in the use of turmeric across the western world. Once an exclusive Indian

spice, turmeric is now available as capsules and consumed raw for medicinal purposes. Although this has been the practice in India for centuries and is a common ingredient in almost all dishes in India, turmeric and milk is now popularised in food shows across the US as an exotic drink renamed “golden milk”. Food shows on network channels are showing use of turmeric in various meat dishes in the West.

Marinating meat and poultry is commonly done with Indian spices.

The traditional Indian garam masala is available extensively across the super markets in both Europe and USA. During my stays in the USA,

I have seen the use of Indian condiments in Thai as well as Italian cuisines. Ethiopian cuisine is heavily influenced by these spices especially in kababs.

The kababs in Middle Eastern cuisine have the same reflections.

Recently, an Anthony Bourdain show revealed that Iranian cuisine was immensely influenced by Indian spices too.

Indian spices have always influenced Middle Eastern cuisine. The spice trade from 16-18th century left a trace of spices all throughout the route.

Bay leaves, once an exotic addition to Indian recipes, is now being grown in households in the world and used for aroma in African, English and French cuisines.

Coriander leaves and seeds have their counterparts in other cuisines but now used for garnishing entrees and appetisers. — IANS

C8

TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016

LIFESTYLE

ONEIENT ED INGR

FIVE

S WAY

Salad Dressings What if you have multiple

salad dressings sitting in your refrigerator?

Use them in many ways other than on the typical green salad.

As a Marinade

For Braised Dishes

Your favourite salad dressing also makes a great marinade for grilled chicken and steaks. Toss the meat in a sealed bag and pour in a bottle of salad dressing for an easy marinade.

Balsamic vinaigrette becomes more fragrant when heated. Try adding this dressing base to braised dishes for extra flavour.

Braising is browning meat in oil, then cooking it in a small amount of liquid in a tightly covered pan.

In Dips Add ranch dressing to a mashed-up avocado for a dipping sauce for crackers or crudites when you need to bring an appetiser to a party. This way you can perk up your ordinary dips to be had with fresh veggies.

If you want the dip to be thin add a few tablespoons of water.

As an Appetiser A quick and easy appetiser can be had when you toss cut tomatoes in Italian salad dressing and then place them on toasted slices of bread to make a mock bruschetta.

Bruschetta is a traditional Italian appetiser.

In Breads Do you know you can use dry salad dressings to make breads? If you make a loaf of bread, cover it with olive oil and top that with dry Italian dressing — you’ll have delicious Italian bread.

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M T U E S DAY, M A R C H 2 2 , 2 0 1 6

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

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VACANCY

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CARGO

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QUALITY FLATS FOR RENT

YƵĂůŝƚLJ Ϯ ďĞĚƌŽŽŵ ŇĂƚƐ ǁŝƚŚ ƐƉůŝƚ ĂͬĐ͛Ɛ Ăƚ ů <ŚƵǁĂŝƌ ;ŶĞĂƌ dŚLJŵŽŽƌ DŽƐƋƵĞͿ FŽƌ ĞŶƋƵŝrĞƐ ƉůĞĂƐĞ ĐontĂĐƚ ͗ 24

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220 M2 SHOWROOM

FOR SALE @ Sanaya/ Hospital Road- Sohar PLEASE CONTACT:

00968 - 9898 9532/ 2471 4325 info@paramountmuscat.com

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

*Tourist visa arranged

OFFICES FOR RENT AT AZAIBA Prime location on service road (previously occupied by A'Saffa Foods) near Al Turky and Mazda showroom.

- 2 BHK flat available directly from the owner, at Azaiba.

Contact: 99229263, 93221054, 95215289 Commercial land in Ghala 2500sqm for rent #93506187 / 97684266 For rent flats and shops behind Al jmlah in Al Amerat. Contact : 91231380 Room for rent available in a flat for Executive bachelor at Azaiba, behind Al Meera Hypermarket with attached bath with cot & AC , rent inclusive of Water & Electricity.

Contact 96404166 / 97433992 Villa in Al-Khuwair 33. Quality Finishing. Consist 5 Bedrooms, 1 Living room, 3 Lounges, All with A/C, Kitchen and storage . Contact: 90665135

Rooms for rent in Al Khuwair near Muscat Holiday Hotel.#95724975 3 Rooms, 2 Toilets Flat for Rent. 18 November Street. Near Mars Hypermarket and The Chedi. Ghobrah -Good for Commercial or Residential use.

OMR 295/- month. Call 94477222 Conditioned room with toilets in Al Khuwair. #92620858 /92605500 2B/R with 3 toilets directly from owner, near Dolphin Complex Bausher. Contact 92158031

Flat in Al Khuwair opp grand mall 4 room 3 toilet + hall kitchen in 3 floor 400. Contact 99420346 4 bedroom new villa Al Mawaleh 2 km to city center mall luxury high end fit outs, split A/C, full kitchen fitting all room with private toilet. Contact: 99349990 2 bed rooms flat with Hall, 2bathrooms in Darsait, near Muscat Municipality. Contact: 24700120 / 92584715

We have staff accommodation in Bousher 30 to 40 people can stay.

Contact 93782735 / 99208033

1000 sq mtrs industrial land in Ghala suitable for warehouse workshop etc. Contact :24700120 / 92584715

We have 7BHK commercial villa in Al Khuwair 33 for rent. Lift also Available. #93782735 / 99208033

For rent 1BHK at Al-Hamriya, B-2397, Way-5935 near Muscat Pharmacy. # 9922478 / 99332297

We have 1BHK / 2BHK flats for rent in Mabela7. #93782735 / 99208033 We have 2BHK flats for rent in Ghubra, Ghala, Azaiba. Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 We have 5BHK villa in Qurum near Mars Hypermarket for rent. Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 We have office for rent in Ghubra 150 sqm. prime location main road.

Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 Flats for rent in Ghubra at good location. 93782735 / 99208033 2 BHK flat in Azaiba, near Sultan Centre, 2 rooms, sitting hall, kitchen & 3 bathrooms. Contact: 93782735 / 99208033 2 BHK fully furnished flat at Ruwi MBD area. #93211557 / 24814853

2 studio flat for rent in Al Amerat, opp. ROP police station rent 150/- and 130/- each. Contact: 99350946 2 BR, 2 bath, a kitchen, a yard , with AC, separate enterance, AlKhuwair near ibis hotel. PDC. RO 250 .. Call 97056443 Commercial/ residential flat for rent in a new building. A warehouse also available, location Muttrah. For more details contact – 99364735 / 95729711 Readymade office space for rent (240sm) in Bank Melli Iran Building, MBD area, Ruwi, opposite Center point. Contact: 99011352 Furnished 2BHK near Indian School Wadikabir from 1st May RO 250 with sale of household items total RO700. Contact:92622506

Big room with bath attach & hall near ISM. Contact: 99419830 House for rent, 2 bedrooms, 1 toilet & kitchen. Contact: 96968104 House for rent in Mawallah near City Center, 2 bedroom, (2) toilets, hall & kitchen. Contact : 96968104 Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb flyover or the right hand side of the main road coming from the Seeb palace roundabout, 2 bedrooms, family hall, kitchen, 3 toilets, balcony with split unit A/cs. #: 97755586 5 floor building for rent in Al Khuwair near Muscat Dunes hotel each floor, 3 flats each flat with 2 BHK. Contact : 93223324 3 BHK, 1BHK flats for rent new building with A/C, behind Muscat Bakery at Wadi Al Kabir. Contact : 92103604 / 99338133

Villa in Seeb near the beach and Dreams Resort. Contact: 92125648 / 95250300

Villa in Al Khuwair. Contact: 92125648 / 95250300

Flats for rent in Al Mabela (7) near Industrial roundabout close to the Al Wafa Mosque area 142 (m2) 2 rooms and a large hall, 1 Kitchen and 3 toilets, for inquires please contact : 94359353

Flat for rent in South AlGhubrah 3 rooms, hall and 3 toilets, kitchen rent 450/-. Contact: 99335580

Flats and Labor accommodation for rent in South Al Mabela. Contact : 95230355 / 95331177

Flats, shops and basement in MBD area and Honda road.

Contact: 92433127/96291778/ 92589235/97293708

New flats for rent at Darsait near to Ministry of Sports, Mumtaz area the flats includes, 1 living room, 2 bedroom, kitchen, 3 toilets, every rooms with split A/C high quality finishing rent per flat is R.O 340/- .

Interested candidates please Contact : 00968 92225523

Flats in Wadi Kabeer, MBD, Darsait, Hamriya & Sidab. Contact: 92125648 / 95250300/ 24182000

1 & 2 BHK Flat in Al.Khuwair.

Contact - 99792181 2 BHK flat in Ghobrah.#99792181 2 BHK flat in Ruwi.

Contact - 99792181

3500 & 2700 sq mtrs industrial land + accommodation & store for sale in Wadi Kabir. #99792181

Office Space Available in Al Khuwair & CBD.Contact – 99792181

1,2,3 BHK flat in Al Khuwair.

Contact 99792181

Double bed room flat CBD area.

Contact: 97608564

Store in Misfah. Contact 99792181

2 Bedrooms, kitchen, toilet, car park R.O 200/- & 1 bedroom, kitchen, toilet R.O 130 in Al Khuwair. Contact: 95154331

Open land & labour camp in Ghala & Rusayl. Contact 99792181 2,200 sq mtr factory area & 800 sq mtr store with 8 accommodation rooms and 10 office cabins available for rent in Barka industrial area. Contact 91398381 / 80 / 78, email - agsan2005@gmail.com Flats in Al Khuwair, Al Ghobrah, Al Hail & Seeb. Contact: 92125648 / 95250300 / 24182000

For rent 4 flats each flat consists of 3 BRS, 1 STR, 2 Toilets, Kitchen, Monthly rent for each flat R.O 250/- location Al Inashel, Muttrah.

Contact: Abdullah 99445880

2 BHK flats /office & shops valuable in a new building at Honda road .Contact: 91165807 Water tank for rent Quantity 5000 Gallon with driver. Contact: 96449233 1BHK near medical Darsait R.O 180/Muttrah house. Contact : 95076261

2 BHK & 1 BHK Flats for rent Muttrah near Oman house S/ AC. Contact: 97007934 / 92629232 2 BHK Flat in Wataya. #99792181 2 & 3 BHK Flat in Al Khuwair. Contact 99792181 Staff Accommodation for Rent in Al hail. Contact 99792181 3000 Sqr mtrs Store in Misfah.

Contact 99792181 Open land + workshop + labour camp in Ghala & Rusayl. #99792181 Flat, 1 bedroom, kitchen, toilet in AL Khuwair family bachelors R.O 150/-. Contact: 95154331 1 Bed room, sharing K& T, R.O 100, 2 bedrooms , sharing K& T R.O 200/- in AL Khuwair. #95154331

WAREHOUSE AVAILABLE

FOR RENT IN BALADIA SANAYAH AMIRAT (Floor area 600sqmtrs and mezzanine of 500sqmtrs) 1100sqmts fully cover warehouse Θ ƐƚĂī ĂĐĐŽŵŵŽĚĂƟ ŽŶƐ Please contact: G.S.M

99417229/92621039 Flat for rent 2 BHK 2 split A/C, 2 toilets, Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Masjid. #97007934 / 92609232 Two bedrooms flat in Al Ghobrah near Oman Oil of 18 November Street.

OMR 330 Monthly. #99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955.

2 BR flats with 2Baths Kitchen Al Amerat Aster Hospital .Contact: 99366142 2BHK split A/C 200/- Monthly & 1BHK spilt A/C 150/- monthly new building good location Barka Market. Contact: 99342661 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 33 1 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 5 B/R Fully Furnished villa @ Madinat Al Ilam 5 B/R Fully Furnished villa @ Madinat Al Ilam. For Daily, Weekly, monthly or Yearly contract.

Please Contact: Atlas Real Estate & Rent a Car LLC 99249069 / 994617563/92888376 / 24834888E mail: info@alshahiintl.com 02 BHK residential flat opposite to Al Nahdha hospital.

Contact: 99342733 /99795241 Four bedroom two floors luxurious and spacious residential villa in Al Hail North, near to the sea and Oman oil. Each room has its own bathroom. It has splits A/C’s and shaded car park. OMR 750 monthly.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955 Warehouse at Wadikabir - total area 3500 sqm - covered warehouse (500sqm), office, accommodation (1000sqm), open area (2000sqm) please contact: 99273774 - 99202278 Full furniture room for rent for family monthly 200/- . #99251975 Flat with two rooms with window A/C, with toilets & car parking way No: 1670 north Al Hail near Dosteen restaurant 1KM Inside. #99238334

T U E S DAY, M A R C H 2 2 , 2 0 1 6

DAILY GUIDE

FOR SALE

FOR RENT

FOR RENT

600 M2 showroom or office in Bousher in front of Dolphin complex.

RO.3.5 per m2. Contact 91776665

Store space in Al Wattayah.

Brand new 4 BHK villa in Al Fai compound Al Khoud. RO.475/Contact – 91776665

Contact 99382489 / 99263443

Villa of 3 BHK and sitting area in Al Ghobra North. RO.525/Contact – 91776665 Luxury and brand new semi furnished 2 BHK flat in Remalbowsher. RO.550/- #91776665 Spacious 1 BHK flat in Al Wattaya with all split A/C’s and parking.

RO.300/-Contact – 91776665 2 BHK Apartment for rent near MSQ area. Contact 92888063

FOR SALE

3BHK in Qurum P.D.O high 350/Monthly. Contact: 99342661 Commercial flats of 3 & 2 BHK in Al Ghobra North 18 Nov street RO.650/- & 450/- #91776665

Approx. 300 sqm, supermarket available for sale. complete with furniture & fixtures, security Camera & internet connection with 2 entrances.# for appointment/viewing at 93518390 / 99082534.

Excavators 3 nos (Hitachi 240/350, 2008/2013 model), Tipper 1 no.

(Astra 2011 model). All are in good condition, sell on the maximum offer.#98999503 / 99782930 / 98981112 2 storey villa, 5 rooms with attached bath,1 hall & kitchen at Madinat Sultan Qaboos under finishing. Contact 99778773 Wholesale Iranian best carpets quality TOP per sqm 17.5 RO quality normal per sqm 13.5 RO for Masjid per sqm 13.5RO in Oman and all Gulf country’s delivery in Muscat and Iranian Souvenirs paintings and gifts. #91213269 / 99234905 Good conditioned 5 ton forklift for sale. #99885638 / 94052713

2 BHK – modern & spacious flats with split ac for rent in Qurum near PDO gate no. 2. #94057023 2 BHK flats with split Ac available for rent at Al Khuwair 33. #94057023 2 BHK, 3 toilet with split A/c at Darsait near School. Contact 99024039 / 99061408 Offices & flat in CBD, Ruwi. Contact 95345909 / 92820734 2 BHK fully furnished flat for rent in Wadi Kabir.#92233322 Store with cold store in Wadi kabir. Contact: 99374977 Furnished office for rent No. 503 at Business Center – Al Khuwair.

Contact: 24488833

Zanzibari coffee shop for rent or sale in Barka Souq road, at Prime location. Contact: 99814411 HD Scaffoldings, Shuttering Jacks, Wooden Planks, Shuttering wood assorted, Tower hoist (lift), Concrete Mixer, Bending Machine, Steel Fabrication Machinery (Searing/Cutting, lathe & Welding) including tools for immediate sale: Contact 99273774/ 99202278

Almost new beach/ garden lounge chairs /bar stools/ counter. Photos can be sent 95865457

Approx. 300 SQM Super market available for sale. Complete with furniture & fixtures, security camera and internet connection. With 2 entrances. #for appointment / viewing at – 93518390 / 99082534

A well running pharmacy for sale at prime location. Contact- 99627621, 93240949

Restaurant for sale (Indian, chinese, Arabic food ). Contact : 91181765 / 95411354

For rent and investment Land industrial shops in Rusayl.

Contact: 99323957 / 95490842 1B/R apartment executive fully furnished at AL Khuwair 33 & 5 B/R villa unfurnished at Madinat Al Ilam & 5 B/R villa furnished at Madinat Al Ilam. Contact: Atlas Real Estate & rent a car LLC -24834888/ 99249069/92888376/94617563 Email: info@alshahiintl.com Luxury villa of 5 BHK in Al Khuwair 33 RO.650/- contact 91776665

Warehouse at Ghala Industrial area for rent with 16 acs & heavy duty shelves/ warehouse is in 2340 sqm land. contact 92400008

400 sq mtrs Commercial/Residential land in Mabela Phase 5 Block 2.

OMR 165 Thousand. #99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

Well established coffee shop / restaurant prime location at AL Khoud.

Contact: 92188777/98700760 Space for printing press available at wadikabir with or without machinery. Contact 99328430 Shop for sale near Oman House, Muttrah. Contact 99024362.

Steel Scrap materials for immediate sale#99273774/ 99202278

600 sq mtrs residential land in Maabela Phase 4 Block 4 OMR 65 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 or 97509955

Urgent sale of steel scrap only serious buyers kindly contact +968 96725423 for viewing the items.

600 sq mtrs residential land in Maabela Phase 4 Block 3 OMR 65 Thousand.#99333479 or 95215360

Single colorful Bed and Sofa for Sale at Al Khuwair.# 92881849 / What`s up No 97290565

INDUSTRIAL TOOLS, ACCESSORIES & PARTS FOR SALES Unused good quality Industrial Tools, Spare Parts for various construction Equipments, and various type of useful accessories are for immediate sales.

We are interested to sell the complete lot to one party.

The interested parties are invited to visit our company for Inspection before 31st March 2016.

Submit your proposal in a closed envelope on or before 31st March 2016.

For enquiries/clarification please contact Mr. Rajeevan Pathikal, GSM : 92996878

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DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classiďŹ eds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

An Art Gallery located in Qurum Area is looking for an Art Gallery Manager to temporary run the place during the entire month of June of this year.

Requirements for the jobs: - Omani female.

- Respectable, punctual, hard-working and good communications skills.

- Fluent in speaking, reading and writing English.

- To have some experience in the ďŹ eld of Sales - Have basic knowledge in using a computer.

- Having a degree in Fine Arts or History of Arts is an advantage.

- Able to provide own transport

CVs are to be sent to the following e-mail account: roxanesimpao22@yahoo.com For further information, please call 24566130

A School in Oman

is looking to recruit teachers to teach Maths and Science for Grade 1 to Grade 5. Candidates must have a Degree in Maths or Science with a B.Ed and minimum of two yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in teaching.

Interested candidates are requested to email a copy of their CV with relevant teaching experience certiďŹ cates and qualiďŹ cation certiďŹ cates to

teachervacancyoman@gmail.com.

ADMIN

MISCELLANEOUS

Urgently required Omani receptionist for a trading company in Muscat. Kindly send CV to email: infooman@orchidinternational.ae

Required for leading Company:- QualiďŹ ed Accountant & Marketing(male, female). Valuator â&#x20AC;&#x201C; real estate, English typist. Email : hr16.careers@gmail.com

Required urgently a Legal Consultant/ Lawyer for reputed law ďŹ rm in Sohar, Muscat. Candidates should have 5-7 years experience as a Legal Consultant/ Lawyer with good knowledge of Computer & should be ďŹ&#x201A;uent in English both written & spoken.

Email C V to shejaanil66@gmail. com or Contact 99153620 between 8am to 1pm & 2pm to 5.30 pm on Sunday to Thursday

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Wanted Accountant 6 years minimum experience. Send CV to: healthfactor@gmail.com Required Accounts Officer- ensure accurate processing of revenue data into ERP systems and invoicing module. Posting of invoices to customer SAP portal and delivery to customer offices and interface with country manager/ reporting to regional CEO. QualiďŹ cations: BSc accounting.

Relevant experience & knowledge on online accounting systems especially the customer SAP system. Submit CV to: me-job@interwell.com Accountant with gulf experience in construction ďŹ eld preferred with Oman driving license. Interested candidates send CV to: Email: omanhari@yahoo.com Gsm: 95892831/95197615

DOMESTIC HELP Urgently required Kerala house maid. Visa available. Contact: 94146486 Housemaid required for full-time for Indian family, Hindi/English speaking CBD area Ruwi.

Contact: 96183093 Looking for a part-time cookcum-housemaid in Azaiba.

Call 92450197.

DRIVER Looking for driver with motorbike licenses for resturant delivery , contact 95048797 A woman Driver required from Muttrah to Darsait. Contact : 98090977 Required a expat driver with Omani D/L. Contact â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 91409668 Part or full time Driver Required call us 91120552

ENGINEER/MECHANIC. A construction company requires Civil Engineer (degree holder) is having minimum 7 yrs exp who can independently handle the site. Oman experience will be plus point. Apply with bio data to fax no: 24489096 or email: tec_ oman@hotmail.com. #99339661 Civil Engineer with minimum 5/8 years experience with valid Oman driving license. Contact Interested candidates send CV to: Email: omanhari@yahoo.com Gsm: 95892831/95197615

Required candidates for following posts: Accountant, Storekeeper, Foreman Building Maintenance, Van-salesman (water), Helpers.

Candidates with Omani driving license preferred. Contact 99273774/99202278

REQUIRED PROJECT MANAGER For an Infra/ Bldg project in Duqm/Oman Graduate Engineer with 20+ years experience preferably in Oman/ GCC with valid D/L and transferable visa, computer literate.

Send CV to Email :

Wanted Staff Nurse for a dermatology clinic in Muscat .

Must have MOH license and NOC. Attractive salary offered. Email: clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com

Hands on experience in: * Vibration Analysis of rotating machineries * Machinery Balancing & Alignment * Thermography * Troubleshooting of machinery malfunctions

Submit CV to : om1@sosgroup.com

Wanted A Sales person

A leading regional co. in Muscat & Barka specializing in heavy steel industries, Earthmoving Equipments Spare Parts and material handling solutions for Quarries, Crushers, Cement Plants and Mining industry is looking for:

with valid GCC D/L, experienced in project selling of Ceramic tiles & sanitary ware. Contact with contractors & consultants would be an added advantage.

Email CV to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; sanitarymuscat@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Urgently Required Steel Fabricated Products Salesman with an experience in steel fabrication, MUST have Oman driving license, and immediately join. Apply, fax 00968â&#x20AC;&#x201C;24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com

SKILLED LABOUR Electrician cum Plumber, Maintenance Supervisor with D/L, Building Material Salesman, C.C.T.V Technician. Contact: 9938304. E mail: helplinellc123@ yahoo.com

TECHNICIAN

Wanted Nurse for a dental centre in capital area. Interested may contact â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 93431024 or send CV to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; drasyanaseem@gmail.com

Service Sales ENGINEER The candidate should be a Mechanical Engineer / Sr. Technician With min. 3 years experience in related fields : Sales of predictive maintenance tools and condition monitoring technologies

omanproject2011@gmail.com

MEDICAL Urgently required female Gynecologist for a clinic at Samail.

Send CV: saemomar@gmail.com, 95498105

A reputed multinational Trading & Services Co. in Oman requires

We, the storm shield in the talented candidates for the below positions (Indian only): Maintenance Technician (male -1) should have knowledge of new mobile devices & 3 years Oman experience Contact: 94441111 Send CV to email: gshield9@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED

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SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian Male 30 yrs (M.Com) having 9 yrs (5 yrs in Oman & 4 Yrs in India) accountant exp looking for suitable placement local release available Contact 96425976 MBA Indian National 26 years old Having (06) years experience in FSM Industry Catering and Restaurant, As An Accountant and ďŹ nalization of all accounts related works, Available to join immediately kindly contact on 98315449.

Male Accountant M.Com Accounts & ďŹ nance, 3 yrs exp in accounts looking for suitable job on visit visa.

Contact: 94648575 Indian female MBA in ďŹ nanc currently on visit visa seeking suitable placement in Accounts / HR/Admin Contact: 92896110. E mail: anoopodiyan@gmail.com Indian male, M. Com with 3 yr Oman Exp in Accounts with valid oman D/L, on visit Visa, seeking suitable placement. GSM:94744575.

Email:sidharth673@gmail.com

ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Required female Nurse, with MOH license for private dental clinic in Bowshar area, Muscat.

Contact: 92189807 GP doctor needed for reputed clinic. Preferably with MOH license or with DataďŹ&#x201A;ow & Paramatics pass Contact: 95388934 Required gynecologist GEN: practitioner lady lab Technician and pharmacologist immediately for a clinic in Suwaiq. contact 95081010 Email: umchealthcare@gmail.com

SALES / MARKETING Urgently required a Marketing Executive with 2 years experience and driving license (GCC) for a reputed building material & electrical showroom in Al Khoud. Please send CV to â&#x20AC;&#x201C; startradingmuscat@ gmail.com. Contact - 94320909 Required urgently for a pastry shop in Muscat Sales lady and Pastry Chef. Filipino National only. Contact : 96962297 We are a professional visa consultant in Oman, looking for a STUDENT COUNSELOR AND IMMIGRATION COUNSELOR for our company. Interested candidates can email their CV at consultancyvisa82@gmail.com Looking for a country Sales Executive with valid driving license and good communication skills.

Interested candidates please send in the CVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to salesjobinoman@ gmail.com Urgently required Sales Executives (2 nos.) & Graphic Designer for signage / print media with minimum 1 to 2 yrs experience.

Send CV at Email : info.kkllc@ gmail.com, 91275555 Required Sales staff 2 NOS Having experience in Cosmetics Sales.

Send your updated CV to james_kunju@yahoo.com GSM 92683688 Required Sales Executive knowledge of building materials.Full or part time. contact 99421513

Indian male good experienced in Accounts, ERP Tally 9 & Admin in India & Oman, presently on visit visa, looking for suitable placement.

Contact 94834687 Indian male 25 yrs, Graduate in commerce, overall 5 yrs exp in accounts/ ďŹ nance ďŹ eld. On visit visa. Immediately available.#92836216 / muhammad.tausif623@gmail.com

Indian CA ďŹ nalist, 7 yrs exp having driving license with visa looking for ďŹ nance / accounts position Email: rameesnm@gmail. com, 98097009 B.Com Graduate, Indian male 24 yrs, 3 yrs exp in Oman looking for Accounting, Sales, suitable jobs.

NOC Available. Contact:90615814.

Mail : adhilrahman.a@gmail.com

28/male/MBA - ďŹ nance/B.Com Accountant with 4 years of Dubai/ India experience looking for a suitable placement. #90187483 shobinkarikkan1987@gmail.com

Fresher 24, ACCA Affiliate, Advanced diploma in Accounting and Business seeking suitable placement in Accounts, Finance or Audit with Oman driving license.

Contact - 92430152 Email - raju.rd619@gmail.com

Dynamic Indian Male Accountant with 9 Years Experience seeks suitable placement. NOC available.

Contact: 96902860

ACCA member with 6 yrs of experience in Oman looking for a suitable job in ďŹ nance. Contact 99284193

An experienced Chartered Accountant with over 25 years in varied industries, presently working with a reputed group in Muscat, looking out for a suitable change. #96491030

Indian female MBA in ďŹ nance currently on family visa seeking suitable placement. #96471025

25 yrs, MBA (ďŹ nance) 1.2 years experience seeking for Accounts job. Contact : 94819575 10 yrs of Oman experience capable of handling large accounts, looking for suitable placement in senior sales / business development position. Contact : 98987654 Indian male 24 yrs B. Com, Tally ERP with one year exp seeking for suitable placement. Now on visit visa. Contact: 94469269 Indian male 7 yrs Oman exp, Tally ERP 9, Accounting, inventory controller / asset supervisor & IT support, marketing seeking suitable job. NOC available B.Com ,PGDCA , location Sohar having Oman D/L. Contact 98317698, Email: sukuanilkumar@gmail.com MBA, Finance, 1 yr experience in Accounting now on visit visa, looking for suitable job. #92901121, Email : lijojoy456@gmail.com Sr. Accountant: 37 Male, Indian, 13yrs Oman Exp. Finalisation/ Audit/Tax compliance/MIS/ Cash Flow/Budget/Payroll/AR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 99679247

Female seeking suitable placement in reputed Company, 5 yrs experience in Oman. Skills : Tally, EKP9, Sage ACC, PAC, ITIL, MS Office. Contact 95483804, sararowshan344@gmail.com Indian male B.Com Graduate, 6 yrs exp in auditing, accounts and marketing 3 yrs exp in Oman with DL looking for suitable placement. Contact :96146287, mubarakamk@gmail.com Indian male, 32 yrs, B.Com having 8 yrs Accounts experience in Oman, looking for suitable placement (local release + Oman D/L available). Contact 97494322 / 98093515 Accountant Indian male 25 yrs BBA with Tally, having 3 years of exp. plus Hardware, Networking seeking for suitable placement: 98201244 Indian male 28 yrs MBA ďŹ nance/ marketing and graduate in computer experience 3 yrs seeking suitable job, now family visit visa.

Contact: 93195378 Email: faisalme.beg677@gmail.com Indian Male Accountant 10yrs Exp. in OMAN Retail & Furniture Co. (Release Available)#92564955

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT, with 13yrs experience, 6 yrs Oman in manufacturing, trading & contracting Cos, capable of handling all accounting, ďŹ nance, banking, L/C, import, export & ďŹ nalization seeks placement. NOC Available.

Call+968-98932752, mail:jjohnmuscat@hotmail.com SENIOR ACCOUNTANT-M. Com Finance-Indian with 7 years experience in Finance & Accounts up to ďŹ nalization. Currently employed in Oman. Having D/L & NOC. contact 94122464, Email: cammk13@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 Chief Accountant 25 years experienced looking for part/full time accountant job. Contact: 95598477/ 98803439 Indian male 25 B.Com (graduate) 2 years experience as accountant in country club India with ERP oracle r12, tally knowledge. On visit visa immediately available.

Email: shabi.hyd@gmail.com Contact- 9042-1161 Indian female 25 yrs, MBA HR & Marketing, with one and half years experience as accountant and 6 months experience in teaching, now on a visit visa, seeking suitable position. Contact: 99624044, mail: np.neethu1@gmail.com.

CATERING Cooks (Arabic Indian) gulf exp looking job. Contact: 99531802

ARCHITECTURE Female Architecture with 3 years experience seeking for a job knows (AutoCAD2D, Photoshop, 3D Max sketch up modeling). Contact: 95582641 / 99632745

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN AutoCAD draftsman experience 2 years. Contact: 93738335 /95809393 Email: mammoosing@gmail.com

ADMIN Indian male, rich working experience in oman as â&#x20AC;&#x153; Personal Assistant / Office Manager (Executive Office) / senior administrator / business development asst.â&#x20AC;? holding Omani driving license. Local release available â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 99168054 - mbk1961@hotmail. com 8 years of intensive Oman experience in procurement & supply chain management looking for suitable placement.#97755488 10 yrs experienced Omani PRO looking for suitable position.

Good knowledge in HR Admin ROP, all Ministries related affairs.

Contact: 99588154 / 93387833 MBA professional with 5 yrs exp in the ďŹ eld of HR , Administration, Sales (Business Development) and accounts, holding valid UAE driving license on visit visa until end of March. Contact: 91731542/ shanoj120@gmail.com Female MBA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; HR professional, 5 yrs experience in teaching & administration, have ďŹ&#x201A;air in areas of management, on visit visa. Contact 95905163, Email : manhan17@ gmail.com Indian Male â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MBA (HR) & Engineering graduation with total 9 years of experience in HR & Admin ( 3 yrs of Oman Exp.) along with hands on experience in technical bid submission for all Government & PDO tenders ready to join immediately with NOC. Contact @ 91240251/Email; kvaradhan@ hotmail.com 24 yrs, lady expat looking for full time job with visa. Interested ďŹ elds are admin, back office, front-office, reception. Contact: 96321431 or email: sharanya. nair08991@gmail.com Indian female BA, 2 yrs exp looking for suitable position in HR & Administration. #94656009 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 Indian male MBA 33yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking full time suitable placement in Administration/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics. Holding valid D/L. Contact 99054786

DOMESTIC HELP Housemaid (overseas) Indian family looking for job. contact 99531802

DESIGNER/DRAUGHTSMAN Senior CAD Designer Indian male with 10 years of experience (8 years of experience in GCC) good knowledge of architectural, civil using AutoCAD, MS Office seeking suitable position. Contact: 90518123 Email: mpmudasir@yahoo.com AutoCAD Draughtsman seeking job. Contact: 95516807 Indian Female, Bsc Fashion Designer with Oman driving Lisence, looking for any good job.

Contact 98757582 Interior Designer Seeking suitable job. On visit visa in Oman.

Contact - 92166130 Interior designer 3 years experience 1 year in Oman and 2 years in Egypt, experience in interior design, 3D max, AutoCAD, Photoshop. Contact - 94762876

Indian male MBA- UK 18 yrs Gulf exp in Administration/ HR & Public relationship. Fluent in Arabic/ English with D/L. Looking for suitable position. Contact - 99897280 Young Omani male have experience 12 years as P.R.O, CLERK Helper Supervisor Admin Supervisor, H.R Manager have diploma in H.S.E, IT and P.D.O license, looking for H.R position or P.R.O part time or full time. Contact: 95933288 Filipino male with 13 years HR and Administration managerial experience. MBA & CIPD holder.

Currently looking for job in Oman.

Interested employer Contact 97728418.

Indian, 26 yrs , female , 5 yrs exp in HR/ Admin with valid Oman D/L seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98236033 Indian female, Masters in HR, having 4 + years Oman experience in media management and HR, looking for openings in HR, Education, Admin, Corporate communications. Contact 98252030

T U E S DAY, M A R C H 2 2 , 2 0 1 6

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED Indian History graduate with diploma in Safety with valid Oman Driving licence seeks suitable placement.

Sales & Marketing specialist

Contact - 92789995

Contact-93361624, Emaildheerachpadikkala@gmail.com

Contact 96960991

Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com

EXPERT ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE

ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

seeking suitable placement anywhere in Oman, now on visit visa.

FŽƌ LJŽƵƌ WZ͕ ŐƵŝĚĞ Į ŶĂŶĐĞ Θ HR Θ ZD͕ ĂĚǀŝƐĞ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚ ŵĂƌŬĞƟ ŶŐ & CRM, appraise IT system for ƌĞƉŽƌƟ ŶŐ Θ ĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƟ ŽŶ͘

Indian male 30 years, having 5 years of experience in industrial automation and utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres), holding valid Oman D/L.

Contact 92319677, Email : ismabsc@gmail.com

Contact: Tel - 96500729 Ŭ͘ƉƌŽĮ ƚŽŵĂŶΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ

Indian male, MCA (Post Graduate) fresher

DRIVER Light duty driver, 3 years driving experience of Oman, staying in Oman from last 8 years. Contact: 96731603 Light car driving. Contact: 99578213

Looking for light driving job 2 years exp. Contact: 91625977 Pakistani looking for driver job, 6 years experience with own car.

Contact : 95365879

Driver. Contact : 94087276 Pakistani male light Vehicle Driver with car looking for job. Contact: 99630504 2 years exp driver seeks placement. Contact: 92055093 Omani male, 37 yrs, with 18 yrs experience in heavy & medium vehicles driving looking for driver job for reputed higher officials (PDO light vehicle license & heavy vehicle license). Contact 99808035 Pakistani, 3 yrs experience in Oman seeks driver job. Knows Hindi, Urdu, English & Arabic. Contact 92142648 Pakistani male light vehicle driver looking for job. Contact: 99521033

Bangladeshi male light driver looking for job 3 yrs. experience. Contact: 94077119 Experienced Indian Driver cum Travel Coordinator, 20 yrs in Oman looking for suitable job. Contact: 95113612 (NOC available).

Driver with car. Contact 95037759

Pakistani looking for job as driver 4 yrs exp light duty. Contact:97469730

Light driver looking for job Oman

Pakistani male, 2.5 yrs experience in AutoCAD Electrical design, estimation, installation commissioning, operation maintenance of switchgear panels MV, LT, MCC, HVAC, Gen Set, fire alarm panels, available on visit visa before 2nd April 2016 looking for suitable placement.

Contact 92012760, Email : ahmed. abdullah29@yahoo.com B.E Electronics & Instrumentation Engg, certification in Industrial Automation having 2 yrs G.C.C exp in power plant (termination & commissioning) having Omani driving license. Contact: 95862110 Email: mubeensid@gmail.com Civil Engineer with 9 years experience seeks suitable placement, NOC available. Contact : 91195257 Email: mjanoyon@gmail.com Indian Engineer 2 years experience B.Tech (IT) CCNA & MCP certified visit visa seeks challenging positions. Contact: 968 93184847, Email : rizaalrahim@hotmail.com Indian Merchandise, 7 years experience Dubai seeks challenging positions D/L in Dubai.

Contact : 90390323 Email: nvshameem123@gmail.com B.E Mechanical Engineer, 24, one year experience as Production Shift Engineer, Trained on HVAC Engineering design and has good hands on software like AutoCAD and HAP. On a visit visa, looking for a suitable placement.Contact:95065955 Email: mjs.jazeb@ gmail.com Indian male 26 yrs, Diploma in Electrical Engg residing in Oman seeking job in supervisor. Contact : 92182283 / 95767146, Email : safeerptuvvur@gmail.com

exp. Contact :95292621 2 Years exp in driving, seeking any job .Contact: 97460056 Indian light driver cum house cleaner. Contact: 96255558 /99415443

EDUCATION/TRAINING Female B. Ed English teacher, 7 yrs exp seeking suitable placement. Contact : 99739415 / 92091528 Indian female MSC,B.ED, MPHIL, IELTS, currently on visit visa seeks suitable placement. #96916534

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. B.Tech electronics & Comm.Engg with CCNA certified with 2yrs exp.

Contact-99490930. email; sujith8938@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 Civil Engineer 11 yrs exp in construction field having Oman driving license & NOC. Contact – 94194399 / shiblyrock@gmail.com Engineer has 10 years local & international experience in ready mix concrete also in Oil & Gas field also in marketing & sales field , has Omani driving license. #92534098 Indian male, Mechanical Engineer having 1year experience, on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact:97416564, Email:jovinmathias@gmail.com Civil Engineer diploma, 4 yrsexp seeks suitable position ina reputed company. NOC available. #96789711 Civil Engineer 8 years experience in Oman as a project engineer for governmental & private projects.

Contact – 90164912 Civil Engineer 8 years experience Structural buildings marine. Available NOC release. Contact: 92451323.

Email: zubairali134@yahoo.com

IT

ENGG. / TECH./MECH. Electrical Engineer, 7 years exp, NOC, GCC driving license looking for suitable jobs in MEP services, O & M of high voltage systems, FMS. Contact: 96137008

Indian Civil Engineer (BE) with 16 years of industry experience in design, quantity surveying, looking for suitable job. #90302823 Email: prince.n@engineer.com Diploma in Civil Engineer having 8 years experience in Oman with driving license. Release available seek replacement urgently. Contact: 95387537 / 97232020 HSE OFFICER - 7yrs GCC experience, (Indian, 29 yrs) transferable VISA, Diploma, NEBOSH IGC, OSHA, IIRSM. Mob :96647486 Indian Mechanical Engineer having 8.5 years of experience in mechanical maintenance of steel plant sintering division looking for a suitable job Oman.

Knowledge of maintenance in belt conveyors, mixers, circle cooler, ID fans, vibratory screen, two and four roll crushers, weigh feeders, ESP, rotary valves, apron feeder,dragconveyor and vibrofeeder. Please #0091-8805022155 Indian male 23 Mechanical Engineer (B.E) residing in Oman looking for suitable job. Contact: 98530806 / 99362006 BE (Mechatronic & Robotics Engg) CNC Operations, basic computer knowledge, multilingual skills, 23 yrs looking for suitable placement. Contact 92552789 Indian male, 25 yrs, fire & safety diploma holder cum electrician looking for a suitable job, presently on visit visa. #94745056 / 98976252 Indian male, 27 yrs, Electronics Engineer (B.Tech) & MBA, Project Management with 5 years experience in electronic security system, optical fiber, project planning installation. Contact 94819139, usamahaq@gmail.com B.Sc in Civil Engineer having 10 yrs experience in structural designer in RCC structure & steel structure in Dubai having Municipality approval & Dubai driving license looking for suitable position. Email : engr.masud.civil@gmail.com BE Mechanical & Diploma with 4 yrs experience in India looking for suitable job. Contact 90542737

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: 92835952. E-mail: mohammedamair.bin@gmail.com 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 HSE Engineer (B.E Mech+Diploma Safety+NEBOSH+OSHA) over 10yrs. Exp, (Visa Release Letter (NOC) available), seeking suitable placement, Mob:97061817, Email:jayanammu1977@gmail.com Indian Mechanical Engineer with 28 years of industry experience in Sales & Marketing, Materials Management seeks suitable opening. Presently working with Indian conglomerate in Oman. Possess valid driving license and SUV. CONTACT:+968 95901425 Male Dip.Civil Engineer, having 20 yrs exp (building & road) looking for suitable job. Contact: 94720782 B Tech Mech, certificate attested, exp in steel fabri. and autocad drafting , salary -250 OMR. #96108187 B.Sc Civil Engineer 27 yrs Oman exp as project manager, structural engineer looking for suitable placement. NOC/local transfer available. Contact: 99349578.

Email:farooqatm@hotmail.com BE Mechanical Engineer 6 yrs exp, 1.5 yrs in Oman in piping and structure construction work. Release available. Contact: 96115463. Email: jijoraju085@yahoo.com Indian male 35yrs BE - Engg 15 yrs exp in UAE Site Manager looking for job. Email : vinoj_1979@yahoo.co.in Pakistani male Diploma Civil Engineer 4yrs exp in Oman bulling & mega projects, valid license Oman. contact:98921022 Procurement Engineer (27 years single male with Oman Driving License) having 7 years experience (UAE 2, Oman 3) with expertise in MEP, Water, Electromechanical, Instrumentation seeking suitable placements. Contact 95852033, mail: hemal1988@gmail.com Male, NDT, QA/QC Supervision Mechanical 10 yrs experience seeks suitable placement.

Contact 96954202, Email : nasirarain86@yahoo.com Civil Engineers exp 4 yrs of Pakistan in building work.#95135608 Diploma in Civil Engineering 13 yrs exp with valid Oman D/L, NOC available. Contact : 99612163 Sr. Electrical Engineer with17+ yrs of exceptional exp in spear heading strategic planning and project management initiatives & executing various high rise residential & commercial building as well as roads and highway project with proficiency in installation, seeking a challenging position in a dynamic organization. contact 96570891 Indian male,24 yrs, Electronics & Telecom, Graduate, Mumbai University (2015 batch) looking for entry level job in Engg.com having good knowledge at telecom, networking ,fiber optic, OraclellgSQL, PLSQL, now in Muscat on 3 months visit visa. Contact : 91868936 / 93101922. Email: siddiquiajmal42@gmail.com Electrical Design Engineer (MEP) Indian male having 1.8 years of experience in India. Available on visit visa looking for suitable placements. Contact: 92658569, Email:mdraziuddin2@gmail.com Diploma in Mechanical Eng piping system in AutoCAD work, 21+ years experience with Driving license. Contact: 95267113 Email: rkakkaryil@gmail.com Sudanese Civil Engineer 4 years experience –98093544

with 16 yrs experience in Oman in MNC retails telecom lubes construction related industry handled various projects, holding valid Oman driving license, release available.

Indian female Project Engineer 15 yrs experience Project Management quality data base management data analytics marketing business development having Omani driving licenses seeks suitable placement presently on family visa, having Omani experience. contact 95783792 Network Engineer CCNA-MCSA exp computer science with NOC. Contact : 92346191 Indian Civil Engineer in UAE seeking suitable placement in Muscat-Contact 00968 99142171 Electrical Engineer with 18 years exp in UAE. Contact: 98148034 Email: shassalih66@gmail.com Project Engineer B.Sc Civil, 7.5 yrs in Oman, need suitable placement, NOC release available.#91129192 Sudanese Electrical Engineer, granted with distinction, hard-working and can adapt to different work conditions. Contact: 98133281 Electrical & Electronics Engineer with 3 years GCC exp in sales, GCC driving license. Seeking suitable placement. Contact - 90301410 Civil Engineer 6 yrs Exp in Oman with license. Contact: 98975518 Sri Lankan Engineer (27 Years old) – B.Sc Engineering (Hon) Mining / Geotechnical Presently in Muscat, 1.5 years experience.

Contact 91295802 acmfaslan123@gmail.com Structural Engineer, 8 yrs experienced in flat slab, post tensioned & slab-beam multi story building design & supervision with driving license. Contact: 98256860 Mechanical Engineer M.Tech 2 years experience HVAC design & site Engg revit MEP Auto CAD. Contact: 90150913 Email: mahmanmechengg@yahoo.im Sudanese Telecom Engineer, 5 years experience, 3 years in Oman PMP certificate. contact 93391008 Email: momen.awadallam@gmail. com Indian female civil engineer B.Tech having 3 years experience sound knowledge of software, REVIT STAD PRO structural detailing currently on family visa seeks suitable placement #95345591 Civil Engineer (BE) having total 5 years experience in building construction looking for a suitable placement. D/L available#94450270 Bachelor Civil Engineer 6 Years in Oman experience Valid Driving License seeks suitable placement Phone 97619722 Email – golamrob@yahoo.com Road and Construction Engineer with 5 years exp in Oman.

Contact: 97667113 7 Yrs Exp. PM in Mech. Engg in the field of Building Const. Oil & Gas Seeking Job.94625598 Mechanical Engineer with 3 Yrs experience in international Oil & Gas company looking for job Contacts: Tel: 90164236 Email: mustafaoshi-62@hotmail.com Indian female, 31 yrs, 7 yrs experienced as AutoCAD civil draftsman (2 yrs experience in Oman) currently in Oman seeks suitable.

Contact 96789441 Email: simi5304@gmail.com Indian Electrical Engineer Btech, female 24 seeking job, presently in oman having 2 year experience in design and estimation of Ht &Lt projects. Contact 968 97436557, Mail id : sibinanoop1@gmail.com Indian Male 23 years B.Tech Civil having 2 years experience in quantity survey and site management looking for suitable placement. Contact:- 95042656

IT Indian Male, IT System Engineer having 4 yrs of experience in system administration.CCNA,MCSE, Linux. Looking for suitable job.

Contact :91272867

Indian male, 3 yrs experience in IT as Linux Administrator & 1 yr experience in Amazon EC2 Cloud at Wipro Technologies Bangalore looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 92889678, Email : amalpathikal@gmail.com Male, 31 years, M.I.T, CCNA, 9 years exp in Qatar as assistant IT manager, network administrator, server management and knowledge of developing website. Qatar D/L and available in Oman on visit visa. Contact:00968-98179462.

0097477237607, Email: mohsin2022@gmail.com Indian male 27 yrs master in computer applications currently in Muscat with Oman driving license seeking suitable placement. Contact: 93191800 Email: vijilraj60@ gmail.com 5 yrs experienced Network Administrator seeks suitable job,1 year Gulf experience, Indian Nationality, Indian (Keralite), male, fluent in English, Hindi. Contact 91 9747520792 (India), 94022497 / 98078068 (Oman), email : shariqlsh@gmail.com Indian female B.Tech IT having 2 years experience in Oman in Admin Insurance & IT support looking for suitable position. Contact: 98679397 Indian female completed M.C.A seeking for suitable jobs. Contact: 91409481 / 97308719 ASP.NET WEB DEVELOPER , 3 YR EXP, PH : 97947921 INDIAN male, pursued bachelor’s of computer science having experience in desktop Engineer, looking for IT job, on visit visa, seeking suitable placement. #98784174 ,email : abdulmoyeed@outlook.com Indian female, B.Tech graduate, with one and half years experience as ‘web developer’ interested in web development and has experience working in HTML,CSS,Bootstrap, JavaScript and Photoshop. contact 9592 7075 e-mail id: mariarosejacob90@ gmail.com Indian female, B.Tech graduate, with one and half years experience as ‘web developer’ interested in web development and has experience working in HTML, CSS, Bootstrap, JavaScript and Photoshop.

Contact : 9592 7075, e-mail id: mariarosejacob90@gmail.com Omani 26(M) seeks placement, 6 yrs excellent experience networking hardware software.

Contact: 95356166

MANAGER Operations & Accounts Manager Indian 18 years experience in Oman finance, purchase, sales, HR, Admin looking for Senior position.

Contact : 99044724 The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Experience 15 Years Inside and outside Oman following activities: tenders& real estate& construction & marketing projects& investments & transportation & Marine services& companies management& develop business. Contact: :- 92385033 General Manager MEP also manage civil, MBA, BE Electrical, 10 yrs exp in Oman valid D/L, release available. Contact – 92447102 Indian male, with experience in operations management, information security, purchase & stores mgmt, hold UAE driving license, on visit visa, seeks suitable job. #91904541 Email: naushers@yahoo.com Production Manager 9 years experience in Oman manufacture and development factories .GRB. GRC. GRG rubber molds and false ceilings, fiberglass and executive at site emadadly2000@yahoo. com96149081 The Business Development Manager, Iraqi, Experience 15 Years Inside and outside Oman following activities: construction(Very strong and qualified to bringing business for civil work Or any type of the construction work for many million per year with a good experience in pricing and collect payment and cash management of the company & marketing projects & investments& tenders & real estate. Contact 92385033

MISCELLANEOUS 12 yrs exp with store incharge purchasing having valid Omani driving license. #99004638 Wanted job as an office boy or customer service. Contact: 94640906 Indian male 37 yrs X-Ray welder 7 yrs exp (ARC, TIG, ARGON, Welding) seeking suitable job.

Contact: 91360190/98223683 B.Com Graduate with five and half yrs exp in Oman as a purchaser.

NOC available. Valid driving license.

Looking for suitable placement Contact: 96772166 Graduate, computer literate, experienced in sales, credit control, accounts, Omani D/L , seeks suitable placement. Gsm 98805474 A lady entrepreneur with BF Tech 1st Class (Fashion Technology) since 2006 in Kerala like to make change for better. Specialized in designing, Production Management, Fashion Art, Grading, Surface ornamentation, Garment Construction. Email: prettyjinu08@gmail.com Mobile: +919539397097.

MEDICAL Indian female 30 years Microbiologist having 3 years experience in Hospital having HACCP Level 3 , certificate seeking suitable job.

Contact: 92302719 / 92490501 Indian male 29 years Radiologists MD having 3 years experience in Hospital seeking suitable job. Contact: 923027199 / 92490501 Indian Bsc Female Nurse with 6.5 years exp, 4 years in KSA. Passed Oman Pro Metric with 69%, completed data flow. Presently in Muscat in visit visa looking for a suitable placement.

Contact 94744900, 94742834, jincyalphonese@gmail.com Male GP Doctor with NOC 6 yrs experience in Oman for perm/locum job. Contact : 97746074

Indian female on visit MBA (International Business- Marketing & Logistics), BE (Computers & Science Engg.) Trained in SAPBI/BW with 1 year experience seeking for job Contact: 90228586 Email:fathimasha16@ gmail.com Bangladeshi male, University M.Com, Working as an Accountant & Administrator in Oman; searching better job. Phone: 94864966 Email: sunrisetoiqbal@gmail.com

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Mason, SH / carpenter, steel fitter gulf & Indian exp looking job.

Contact: 95175192

TOURS & TRAVEL An experienced Sudanese female Dentist with MOH license looking for job. #96436517 /97396088

HOSPITALITY Hospitality/Hotel/ Restaurants Dynamic result oriented hospitality professional with 20 years of international exp. MBA in Hotel Management, specializing in Hotel/Restaurant start ups, concepts & Franchise development with proven records. Seeking for Challenging positions in reputed groups as GM/COO/CEO/Business Head. (NOC available) #96059470

Indian , presently on visit visa Graduate and IATA certified seeking a job in travel and tourism.

Contact: 97066058 Indian female BA IATA, 7 yrs exp in travel industry knows SABRE AMADEUS GALILEO on family visa seeks opportunity in Oman.

Contact 93531170. E mail: claudiatresa17@gmail.com Filipinas lady having exp in ticketing and preservation, call center, secretarial and real estate is now looking for job please call.94054080

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SITUATION WANTED EDUCATION/CLASSES/COMPUTER/WEBSITE

SITUATION WANTED SALES / MARKETING 10 yrs exp in procurement, tenders, importing, marketing and sales, organizing events. Have car NOC available. Contact: 94123939

Indian male 26 years of experience of sales & marketing in surgical and laboratory equipment, looking for good placement. Contact - 95774854

Indian male 23 yeas BBM & Diploma in logistic. Looking for Indore/ Outdoor sales & marketing suitable placement, currently in one month visit visa. Contact: 93180270/ faizanmck@gmail.com

Indian M/39 confident Keralite, Dubai Bank experience with Oman driving license & NOC seeks suitable placement in sales & marketing / coordinator. contact 94742666

Indian male Graduated in Business Management having 4 yrs exp in marketing & trading, dealt with international companies and product also having good knowledge in logistic & Admin looking forward to join immediately, having GCC driving license and car NOC available. Contact : 93639385 Email: faizenqidwai@gmail.com

Indian male, B.Com worked in Bahrain (4 years) and currently working in Oman from last 4 years in accounts and sales looking for suitable placement. Valid Oman license and NOC available. Contact number : 9954 8543.

Indian male Graduated in business management having 4 yrs exp in marketing & trading dealt with international companies and product, also having good knowledge in logistic and admin, looking forward to join immediately. having GCC driving license and car, NOC available. Contact : 93639385 email; faizenqidwai@ gmail.com Pakistani male, fresh Graduate & Diploma in hotel management & tourism, computer literate, interested in Sales & Marketing, Accounts, available on permanent visa, seeks placement with visa.

NOC available. Contact 91439870, Email : waqaxmooxa@gmail.com Warehouse Manager of 4 years experience in South Africa (retail, sales & marketing) and teaching in Maldives, on visiting visa looking for suitable placement in Muscat.

Contact : 94745292 Email: sabusoniairiffy@gmail.com Computer Sales and Service man (Indian) with Diploma in Electronics and Communication with more than 2 years experience available in Oman. Contact : 97017866 / 95141354 Indian male MBA having 12 years of Sales experience in Oman seeking suitable position, good in Arabic and having valid D/L. NOC can be obtained (as per new rule).

Contact : 98908634 MBA, Executive Post, Omani Driving License, 14 years experience in Multinational Groups in Sales & Marketing. M.Z. 91685048 MBA Marketing sales & business development, digital marketing 10 years experience telemarketing online marketing. Contact: 98613324 Manager with 12 years experience in sales & property management, MBA in sales & marketing with Omani D/L looking for a suitable position NOC Available. Contact: 98125226 Indian male having 10 years of exp in sales & customer service also worked as IT Technician CCNA Certified. Graduate seeks suitable placement. contact 92490127 NDT candidate QC job visit visa.

Contact: 93857977 / 96085401 Email: sibinkjacob@ gmail.com 23 yrs, Indian male, B.Com, Graduate looking for suitable positions as Assistant Accountant, Marketing Executive, Sales Executive or in Administration, currently on free visa with valid Oman driving license. Contact 98093949

An experienced sales & marketing person having several years experience in GCC with valid D/L. Looking for a suitable position.

Contact – 92124669 Indian male with 6 yrs of GCC exp in sales and service & 1 year of exp in gym fitness instructor.

Seeking job presently in Muscat in family visit visa. Contact: 90694335/ 99438360 or email:sahildgreat99@yahoo.com MBA graduate having 6 years exp in Sales & Marketing, 4 years with PEPSI, India, having international driving license permit seeks suitable placement. #: 95308167, Email : samir.pag@gmail.com Indian Male 28 MBA Marketing with 4 years of experience in sales with good communication skills now available in Muscat on visit visa. GSM 95840153 / Mail akbarshareef786@gmail.com Sudanese B.Sc in business administration, exp 8yrs in sales, marketing & accounting. contact 96112453 Indian sales marketing professional highly experienced in business development in ME India and Africa seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 97897611 B.Com male 2 yrs experience in sales Computer knowledge, seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 98371144 email: nabilnazar22@gmail.com Indian male, MBA Marketing having 2.5 years Sales experience immediately looking for a suitable position. Contact: 91415145, Email: shariqs88@gmail.com Male 38 yrs Graduate 07 years experience indoor / outdoor electronic field with D/License & NOC available (as per new rule).

Contact: 92453375

SECRETARIAL & OFFICE Executive Secretary/ assistant Indian female 9 years experience in Oman, Diploma in Business management. Valid D/L. Contact: 96684705 Lady Secretary / Sales Co-coordinator 12 years experience in Oman in reputed companies, seek immediate Employment. Call: 95244761

MISCELLANEOUS Indian Male,B.Com & Diploma Logistics & supply chain management 2years experience looking for job in Accounts/logistics field.

Presently on Visit Visa.

Software knows MS office & Tally7.2 .MOBILE:93884951Email:mehreenraiz@gmail. com

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

MISCELLANEOUS Sr Material controller, having 13 years experience in material controlling in reputed companies.

Presently working in Muscat (NOC Available). #00968-92944026, Email charanjeet35@yahoo.co.in Indian/male (25)/ MBA/2 years experience in channel sales and distribution management. on visit visa. available for immediate joining. Contact: 96914068, E mail: mailanasap@gmail.com Indian, BE Mechanical Engineering with 1 yr exp as service Engineer, looking for suitable positions. Contact-90637918, E mail: aquasharath@gmail.com Senior Accountant, 5 yrs Oman, 10 yrs UAE experience in manufacturing & construction valid D/L immediately available. Email: irfan_syed2000@hotmail.com, call: 95389018 Sudanese male, 5 years experience in warehouse management and logistics services#90644186 32year Indian Male MSC,MBAHR having 8yrs Exp(HR / Payroll / Admin) with Oman valid DL. Seeking suitable opening in Human Resource, Payroll & Admin/ backend jobs. Contact:00968-99322978 Indian Male ,MBA Finance & Marketing 28 yrs,6+ Exp, with oman D/L & NOC, Hospital ,Pharma ,Herbal ,FMCG, F&B Marketing ,construction A/c & sales , 93379044 HSE Engineer, Indian male, 4 plus years experience in oil & gas, working in shclumberger Nebosh, ISOH & NDT certified, M. Tech in HSE. contact-krish.569@gmail. com mobile- +91 9867016808 BE Mechanical Engineering with one year experience now on visit visa, looking for suitable positions. Contact-90637918 / 99335742,email: aquasharath@ gmail.com Indian/male (25)/ MBA /2 years experience in channel sales and distribution management. on visit visa. available for immediate joining. Contact: 96914068, email: mailanasap@gmail.com Indian male, 8.5 yrs experience, B.Com Graduate with GCC exp & valid driving license looking for better job opening in Muscat. Contact: 92609935 / 94771365 Indian male with 1 yr exp looking for job in I.T as Web developer, presently in Muscat on visit visa.

Contact: 92312978 Indian male network cabling technician (19 years Gulf experience), seeking for suitable placement.

Contact : 0091-8089909265 (India), Email: mohithavp@gmail.com B.Com Graduate with 4 year experience as an Accountant in Oman.

Also have Oman Driving License.

Best fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi& Malayalam. Looking for Job. Currently in Oman. Cont: +968 93943448, murshid4u@gmail.com Indian male, Kerala B.Com & B.PE, looking for suitable Job in Sales, Accounts, Admin etc. #93301023 email:- sajith3969@gmail.com SOFTWARE DEVELOPER, Indian Male, 24 years, B.Tech in computer science.3Years of experience in technical support, software development, troubleshooting and managing, seek suitable placement. Contact GSM- 98184170

Any time available transportation solution for house office shifting, TV fixing, carpenter all type of maintenance. Contact Indian person : 95194801 / 96594592 Whatsapp WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman 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 WANTSIT. WANTED MISCELLANEOUS

Spoken Arabic class for Non Arabic Speakers & English class for Malayalam Speakers

Physiotherapist on visit visa searching for a job. #99767528 / 91317863 Commercial or Operation Manager 18 yrs in Oman – finance, purchase, sales, HR & Admin exp. Contact: 99044724. E mail: srjobsinoman@ yahoo.com

ACC. AVAILABLE Fully furnished room with fully equipped kitchen and sharing bathroom immediately available for Executive bachelor in N.Gubrah opp. Maha Hotel. #95450250 Fully furnished 1BHK at Wadikabir near Al Hassan RO275/ month available for 4 months from 01/04/2016 to 31/07/16. #92577929 1 BHK apartment for rent in Al Khoud Shabiya near Mazoon Mosque for rent. #93913224 Single room near Al Falaj Hotel.

Contact 99643845 Room with attached bathroom for a family in Wadi Kabir. #97167857 Room with kitchen available at Ruwi.# 91214897 / 98049288 Furnished bedroom with attached bath and kitchen separate entrance for bachelor for RO 150 per month all inclusive in a villa, opp.

Star Cinema.#99314807 Room with toilet for working lady.

Contact: 91450718 Room for rent with furniture.

Al Bustan village.#93687466 Furnished room attached bath for Indian bachelor, Al-Falaj Ruwi & lady Wadi Kabir near Mars hypermarket. Contact: 96202458/96761960 Furnish bedroom with attach bathroom for executive bachelor.

Contact: 97704794 Room with attached bathroom and sharing kitchen available for Executive bachelor or small family at wadikabir Contact 93049849 Room available in Mumtaz area 1 room, 1 Bathroom, Kitchen & 1 room, common bathroom. Interested please contact 92680041 Mr. Altaf

FOR HIRE Grader GD 705-5, Showel WA 4305, Roller BW 211D-40 JCB. Contact: 99292668 Grader, roller, bobcat, JCB 3CX, JCB 4CX with breaker & water tanker for rent. #93218705 / 24478450

in Azaiba and Ruwi earn in two months

tion guaranteed

Tel: 95244310 LOST Batllet Frederic has lost French Passport No. 13CP 29856. Finder please handover to ROP Mst Saleema Begum has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. BF 0768560.

Finder please handover to ROP Mohammed Ripon has lost Bangladeshi Passport No. AC 6442554.

Finder please handover to ROP

TRANSPORTATION Transport services Muscat – Kasab. Contact: 93163157 Office and private transport available in Muscat area. contact 94297820 Transportation. contact 91703829 Ruwi, Muttrah, Al Khuwair, Muscat, Qurum, seek transportation. Contact: 91132238 Transportation. Contact 99508282 /93113534 Transportation. Contact 99508282 Transportation. contact 92015894 Transportation available Ruwi to Al Khuwair, Ghubra & Azaiba.

Contact: 91103909

AVAILABLE Party & Wedding equipment rentals.

Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting.

Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. ww.tunesoman.com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

DRIVING

MATRIMONIAL Ezhava Divorcee, 37 yrs, 5.3”, Pharmacist in Muscat.

Email :suryakv2010@gmail. com,+919961176066 Keralite, Kollam Marthoma male (27) yrs diploma in Civil (Muscat) seeking alliances form suitable families. Contact: 95253640 Christian RC boy 30/160 cm fair, working as an Accountant in a company Muscat, suitable proposals solicited. Contact: 98788464 Ezhava girl 25yrs B. Tech working in MNC Shudajathakam from Palakkad looking suitable alliance Contact 99323085 / 99001726.

Malankara Catholic Male Nurse (28) from Thiruvalla working in Nizwa Private Co. Alliance invites parents/nurses working in Oman. #968 98267338, 0091 9287215726 Indian male Roman Catholic 40yrs divorcee working in Muscat.

Seeks suitable alliance from widow/ divorcee/ single. Contact: 96059801.

BUYING Buying cars for cash.

Contact: 90202090 Bobcat available for rent.

Contact 97623299

NRI 1650 Sq ft plot with gate for sale Erettai Vaikkal, Vayalur Road, Trichy 95366777 Housing in a well developed area for sale in Mangalore 100 meters from Main road at: Malaraya Temple Road, Chilimbi Near Urva stores, Mangalore -Karnataka, India Land: 181.60 Sq.mts, House built in the year 1986 consisting of ground floor and first floor. Total build up area around 2000 Sq.ft with car parking. Separate water and electricity connections. Contact: Anil Kumar: +91 97418 85128 (between 12 noon till 10 pm).

5 cent land location Trissur town Paravattani National Highway Road side, opposite Skyland flat building, best location for shops & villa. #968 95890957 / 99038328 Flats villas land for sale in Pune Contact: 95272138/918139098275

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DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

TOURS

TOURS

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours contact 98029602, 92808636 We arrange tours & accommodation at all the beautiful places in Oman. Contact 99839898

SITUATION WANTBUSINESS SITUATION WANTBUSINESS ED ED ONE STOP SHOP BUSINESS SERVICES Public relation services (PRO), Formation new companies, LLC companies, investor visa, business setup, prepare business & companies accounts, legal services, representing you and your company.

Contact Saleh: 96723485

RENT A CAR Best Rates for Saloon Contact: 97869042 / 95730550 sales@modernreem.com

Looking for experienced person to run a fully arranged Coffee shop in Khuwair (behind Rawasco) with 7 visa available 99441122

Hyundai Electra saloon car 2010 with experience driver for company and other for all Muscat 24 hours available new car with experience driver.#97376342

GOOD NEWS

Driver available with car.#96728056

Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis, massage, steambath, obesity, spondylitis. Ideal Care Ayurvedic Clinic, 18 November Street, Azaiba.

Contact: 99639695 / 97397320 FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 99250777, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133. For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit:www.islamfact.com Electrical Contracting Company with DCRP- D Grade license, Muscat started in 2013, having running projects available for sale or partnership. #00968 9604 5659

RENT A CAR

Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam).

Contact:24475280 / 95371664 / 92504980 www.siddhayur.com

WANTED IELTS Coaching (academic) required nearby wadi Kabir area. Please call on mobile or msg on Whats up. Mobile no: 92927880/99012165

ACC.WANTED Required single room for an executive lady (non cooking) in Darsait, Ruwi, Wadi Kabir.

Contact - 98591132 Accommodation required with food for 1 month, bachelor for March month. Preferably Al Ghobrah area. Contact: 99335742

25 - 50 seater bus with PDO & BP speciďŹ cation for monthly rent & small car with driver. Contact 99839898

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SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS Indian male BE Mechanical Engineer having 6 yrs exp in piping and structural construction work, looking suitable position, release available. #96115463-email: jijoraju085@yahoo.com

MANPOWER

Pest control & Building cleaning all kinds of pest control ďƵŝůĚŝŶŐ͘ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ Ɵ ůĞƐ ͬ MĂƌďůĞ ƉŽůŝƐŚŝŶŐ ŵŽŶƚŚůLJͬ YĞĂƌůLJ ĐŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘ Contact: 98814733 /98814740 Al Husn Cleaning L.L.C

MV SALE GMC Acadia No 1 SLT June 2014 Blue Metallic Color 95366777 Toyota Corolla, 1.6 Ltr, 2009 Model, Automatic, 110,000Kms RO.3,200/-. Contact: 92769735 Toyota Echo model 2005, 142,500 kms, in good condition.

Contact 99412902 Doctor used Nissan Sunny 2012 new model for sale Indians preferred. Contact : 95991809 Toyota Yaris 2008 model, white, color, automatic transmission, expat driven km 140500. #99104124 Toyota Rav 4 2012 RO 5500.

Contact: 93835318 Nissan path finder model 2012 R.O 5500. Contact : 97692959 Nissan Qashqai 2013 low mileage 30.000kms comprehensive insurance UAE Oman valid till 2016 . Contact: 96995430

SITUATION WANTSERVICES Marble crystallization & grinding, Ocean center LLC .

Contact:99344723

Window & split unit A.C servicing & repairing. Contact: 99557080

SERVICES We Provide Cleaners, Kĸ ĐĞ ďŽLJƐ͕ ůĞĂŶŝŶŐ ŽŶƚƌĂĐƚƐ͕ General cleaning etc. ů DƵĚĂŬŚŝƌ EĂƟ ŽŶĂů Ɛƚ͘ >> Contact : 94277020

Split & window unit A.C servicing & maintenance. Contact: 96236476 Split & widow unit A.C servicing & maintenance. #93769089 / 95323517 Split & window A/c servicing & maintenance. #93769089 / 95323517 GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722

A/C maintenance & servicing, fridge, washing machine & dish washer repairing, painting & cleaning services, electrical & plumbing.

Contact: 99447257 / 97014234 / 24504281

House shifting & transporting.

Contact 92490422

Marble crystallization & grinding, cleaning & carpet shampooing.

Ocean center LLC.#99344723

Pest control treatments, Ocean center LLC #99344723

Split A/C servicing R.O 10 only.

Contact: 94217681 / 99210141

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. #24793614/ 99314807

Building maintenance.

Contact: 96173326

House shifting packing.

Contact: 99657644 / 98518013

Al farzdaq Al Fedi Trad and Cont Maintenance services electric, plumbing and A/C. Contact: 96524904 /94285064

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 House shifting. Contact: 99708138 Villa cleaning, shifting, marble crystallization, tiles polishing, shampooing sofa & carpet. Modern Eastern Arms. 92145560 Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722