Times Of Oman - March 25, 2015

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WEDNESDAY, March 25, 2015 /4 Jumada Al Thani 1436 AH timesofoman.com

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The HM effect March 17

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6,282 Market recovery

Business confidence of investors on the MSM received a shotin-the-arm with the

MSM30 Index

return of His Majesty to the country

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A. E. JAMES & ELHAM POURMOHAMMADI

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businesseditor@timesofoman.com & elham@timesofoman.com 6,223 6,220

6,208 Source: MSM

E M I R O F K U WA I T

HM receives greetings MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has received a cable of greetings from His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, Emir of Kuwait on the occasion of the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan to the homeland.

Sheikh Sabah expressed his greetings on this occasion. He affirmed that the State of Kuwait; the leadership and people share with His Majesty and the Omani people happiness and joy on this occasion, praying to Allah to perpetuate good health and continuous wellbeing on His Majesty, protect him as leader to continue realising all aspirations of progress, growth and prosperity under HM’s wise leadership. — ONA

HM greets Greece >A6

Graphics

MUSCAT: Joy sweeping the nation spread to the Sultanate’s stock market as the value of shares surged close to OMR100 million higher in a single day thanks to the return of His Majesty.

TOP THREE INSIDE STORIES

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Why is His Majesty the best ruler in the world?

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Citizens and expatriates all over Oman started rejoicing as soon as they heard that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos is back in Oman. The story of “HM returning,” posted online on social networking sites reached out to thousands of readers within minutes of his arrival. There were 170,000 hits for the HM’s arrival stories on the Times of Oman website till 5pm on Tuesday, on Facebook it reached to 108,262 readers. We also asked readers about their thoughts of why HM is the best leader in the world? >A4

OMAN

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Omani policeman working in UAE jailed

Sultanate to host airport conference

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An Omani working as a policeman in the United Arab Emirates has been jailed for attempting to force a British pilot to pay him Dh3,000 after the Porsche driver made an illegal U-turn in Dubai. He was sentenced to six months in jail, according to a report. >A7

Oman will host a forum on operational preparedness and shifting to new airports under the patronage of Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications. The twoday conference will be held on Wednesday. >A8

150 feared dead as German plane crashes

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Oman’s business confidence, especially those of investors on the local bourse, received a shotin-the-arm with the return of His Majesty (HM) to the country, after a gap of eight months.

Muscat Securities Market witnessed a smart recovery with the MSM 30 Index, the barometer of market sentiment, surging ahead by 1.21 per cent or 75 points to close trading at 6,282.50 points, which translates a straight investor gain of OMR94 million (to close the market at OMR14.80 billion market capitalisation) on a single trading session.

Blue chip shares like Bank Muscat gained by 3.1 per cent on better support. As many as 27 shares recovered among 44 stocks traded on the bourse. Around 125 to 130 companies are listed on the Omani bourse.

Market sources said that if there was no triggering factor, share values would have gone down on Tuesday due to dividend adjustments. >A6

HM pardons prisoners MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander, has issued a Royal pardon to a number of prisoners convicted of different cases. Among were 246 prisoners, including 78 foreign prisoners.

His Majesty, the Supreme Commander’s Royal pardon coincides with the safe return of His Majesty to the country. May Allah protect His Majesty and grant him a good health, happiness and a long life. — ONA

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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The Royal Directives have played a prominent role in enhancing the march of education and promoting all the components of the education sector in the Sultanate.

Dr Madiha bint Ahmed Al Shibaniyah Minister of Education

C E L E B R AT I O N S

Ministers, officials pledge loyalty for His Majesty the Sultan MUSCAT: Ministers and top officials have expressed their joy on the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Sayyid Badr bin Saud bin Hareb Al Busaidi, Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs said that “all Omanis are happy that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces has returned. Everybody was filled with joy and thanking Allah for His Majesty’s safe return home after successfully completing the treatment in Germany. The date will be immortalised in the annals of the Sultanate’s history. The chanting of the people yesterday ‘Be optimistic,

HM Qaboos has come’ reflects the true feeling and absolute loyalty and love of loyal Omanis to their leader and architect of their modern Renaissance.”

He added, “on this occasion, on behalf of all the Ministry of Defence, the Sultan’s Armed Forces and Firaq Forces personnel and myself, I express deepest greetings to His Majesty and affirm to His Majesty that we will always remain loyal soldiers who are ready to defend our dear nation and the achievements made. We will always remain committed to upholding the Omani values.”

Dr Ali bin Masoud bin Ali Al Sunaidy, Minister of Commerce

said, “We congratulate all Omanis of the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan.”

“The real happiness on the faces of all Omanis and their truthful hearts are expressing loyalty and gratitude to His Majesty. This is also an expression of the people’s love for their leader who have been working relentlessly for the dignity and happiness of his people. Under the wise leadership of His Majesty the Sultan, the Sultanate has made impressive achievements in all walks of life”, he concluded.

Dr Madiha bint Ahmed Al Shibaniyah, Minister of Education said His Majesty’s return has brought happiness to all parts of

the Sultanate. She added in a statement that this return has brought smiles to the faces of students, teaching staff, administrators and those working at the Ministry of Education.

“Today Oman schools are adorned with national flag and HM the Sultan’s pictures,” she said.

“The Royal Directives have played a prominent role in enhancing the march of education and promoting all the components of the education sector in the Sultanate.

“They also promoted the human resources, which has been the cornerstone of the development process; as outlined by His Majesty who repeatedly affirmed that the

Omani man is the cornerstone and aim of the development process,” she concluded.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser Al Bakri, Minister of Manpower said that “His Majesty is always present in the heart of every Omani as all pray to Allah to perpetuate a good health, happiness and a long life on the architect of Oman’s modern glory. After the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan, the Omanis have escalated their motivation and dedication for Oman’s present and future.”

Meanwhile Lt. Gen Hassan bin Mohsen Al Shraiqi, Inspector General of Police and Customs affirmed that they will remain com-

mitted to stand behind His Majesty the Sultan’s wise leadership.

The Inspector General added that they have been appealing to Allah to grant HM the Sultan good health and happiness for the prosperity HM has achieved for Oman and its people.

“While we are enjoying this blessed return of His Majesty, we appeal to Allah to grant His Majesty good health so that he can continue this victorious march, he further said. “We take oath before His Majesty to remain always under His Majesty’s leadership and to implement the Royal Directives that protect the security of this dear country,” he concluded.–ONA MARCHES ORGANISED

His Majesty’s return sparks jubilations in the wilayats WILAYATS: Citizens in various governorates and wilayats of the Sultanate on Tuesday celebrated the safe return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the homeland, after a successful treatment journey to the Federal Republic of Germany.

After the Diwan of Royal Court issued the statement on the return of His Majesty to the country, overwhelming joy and happiness pervaded throughout the Sultanate. During the celebrations, marches were organised in all wilayats, and the citizens expressed their love and loyalty to His Majesty the Sultan.

All schools in the Sultanate also celebrated the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan to his homeland.

Students expressed their overwhelming joy on this happy occasion. They organised various activities and presented many programmes expressing their love and loyalty to the His Majesty the Sultan.

Local officials in all wilayats expressed their sincere feelings and overwhelming happiness on the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan to the dear homeland. They prayed to Allah the Almighty to perpetuate on His Majesty good health, happiness and grant him a long life, to continue realising aspirations of further progress, growth and prosperity for the Omani people under His Majesty’s wise leadership.–ONA R E A L E X C H A N G E R AT E

Omani rial logs 5.6% increase MUSCAT: In an indication of the increasing purchasing power of the Omani rial (OMR), the currency’s real exchange rate index recorded a 5.6 per cent increase at the end of December 2014, logging 101.6 points compared to 96.2 points at the end of 2013.

According to statistics issued by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), the total issued (traded) cash at the end of December 2014 increased to RO1,593.7 million marking an increase of 18.7 per cent compared to RO1,342.7 million recorded during the same period in 2013.

The money supply comprising the total cash outside the banking system along with current accounts and demand deposits in the local currency has increased by a significant 21.7per cent to reach RO4,808 million compared to RO3,951.2 million in 2013. On the other hand, local liquidity at the end of 2014 saw a sharp growth of 16.3 per cent, logging RO13,766.9 million as against RO11,837.9 million at the end of 2013.

Total foreign assets at the Central Bank also grew 2.3per cent to reach RO6,276.9 million compared to 2013 when the Sultanate’s foreign assets were valued at RO6,133.3 million. NCSI figures also indicate that the private sector’s current deposits at commercial banks reached RO11,186.4 million at the end of 2014 logging an increase of 13.5 per cent over 2013. -ONA

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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Omanis celebrate HM’s return Staff Reporter

While State Council and Majlis Al Shura held meetings to express their love, employees in both public and private sector and students organised special programmes

SUPREME COUNCIL

Five-year Plan to be reviewed MUSCAT: A review meeting for the first draft of the 9th FiveYear Plan (2016-2020) will be held by the Supreme Council for Planning on Wednesday.

The meeting will focus on social development, economic diversification, utilisation of available natural resources and the Sultanate’s unique geographic location.

In response to the Royal orders of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, the coming Five-Year Plan will focus on the social development, especially the areas related to the living of the citizens by allowing more job opportunities, training and rehabilitation programmes and enhancing the production efficiency. It will also focus on the scientific, cultural and knowledge development, shifting from providing access to social services to the quality of these services and attaching special importance to the development of the governorates to ensure fair distribution of the fruits of developments.– ONA

MUSCAT: Oman was filled with scenes of jubilation and unbridled joy as citizens took to the streets and to the social media as well, to celebrate the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said from Germany after his successful eight-month treatment on Monday evening.

While State Council and Majlis Al Shura held special meetings and celebrations to express their deep veneration towards His Majesty the Sultan, employees in both public and private sector and students in different schools and colleges organised programmes to express their happiness on HM’s return.

Almost all the government de-

partments held prayers for HM’s good health in the morning and organised traditional folk art forms to celebrate his return.

In Muscat and other regions, buildings, roads, bridges, schools, colleges and vehicles were seen decorated with national flags and HM’s picture.

Nationals were also seen distributing sweets on the roads for everyone to share their happiness in rallies at different places.

While some school students were seen holding rallies with HM’s pictures and national flags, others held special prayers for his good health.

Employees at financial institutions also celebrated HM’s return at their head offices and branches.

While, Oman Environmental Services Holding Company ‘be’ah’ tweeted that this day will be celebrated annually by ‘be’ah’ to mark the nation’s joy and happiness, Oman Air has announced treats on their regional flights for three days to celebrate HM’s return.

Special offers Telecom service providers also came up with special offers to celebrate HM’s return.

Omantel has offered 1970MB free data for its subscribers, Oreedoo has offered free four minutes talk time for national calls when a four-minute call is made.

In addition to that Oreedoo has also launched a special campaign to welcome the Sultanate’s

beloved leader back to his homeland. Proudly bearing the hashtags #OurSultan and #OurOman, Ooredoo has created an artistic portrait of His Majesty, to show the love and admiration held for him in the hearts of the people.

The design specially created for the occasion will be printed on car stickers and shades which can be collected from any of Ooredoo’s 29 stores across the Sultanate, as a token of the company’s celebration of this long-awaited occasion.

People can also access the image from www.ooredoo.om to reprint it themselves and use as they so wish during this special time.

Later in the evening, vehicles emblazoned with images of His Majesty filled the Muscat’s main

carriageways as motorists honked horns and waved the Omani flag while expressing their joy.

Meanwhile, online social networking sites were seen flooded with pictures and videos of celebrations held on Tuesday. Online postings were voicing affection for His Majesty and lauding his 44-year rule.

Salalah Port CEO tweeted pictures of a cake being cut during the celebration of HM’s return from Germany.

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

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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We thank Almighty Allah for granting His Majesty good health and well being, and returning him safe and sound to his homeland and people Sayyid Khalifa bin al Murdas Al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam

C E L E B R AT I O N S

Governors hail HM’s return Times News Service MUSCAT Governors across Oman have expressed happiness over the return of His Majesty.

Sayyid Khalifa bin al Murdas Al Busaidi, Governor of Musandam said, “With the glad tidings of the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to the homeland, we thank Almighty Allah for granting His Majesty good health and well being, and returning him safe and sound to his homeland and people.” He said that the loyal people of Musandam feel joyous on the auspicious return of the Sultan and felt elated with joy on the arrival of His Majesty and they expressed these feelings through loyalty marches which emphasise

the unity and loyalty between the leader and his people.

Sheikh Muhanna bin Saif Al Lamki, Governor of North Al Batinah said people in the Governorate of North Al Batinah, expressed their joy on the return of His Majesty the Sultan.

Positive impact He added that his memory recalls all aspects of development which Oman experienced since His Majesty the Sultan assumed power. The Blessed Renaissance has had a positive impact all on the country.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Saif Al Mahrouqi, Deputy Governor of Dhofar said, “We express our deep happiness and great delight and

pray to Almighty Allah to bless His Majesty. May he be surrounded by the love of his people. This day will remain in the soul for long and it’s hard to find words that describe what joy we experience on this glorious day.

Sheikh Yahya bin Hamoud alMa’amari, Governor of North A’Sharqiyah said, “We thank Allah on this generous blessing that deserves thanks of all citizens in various governorates”.

He pointed out that citizens in the Governorate of North Al Sharqiyah received the news of His Majesty’s return with overwhelming joy and happiness, expressing their sincere feelings through the celebrations witnessed in the wilayats.

Why is HM best leader in world?

Social media response

These are the most used words on Times of Oman’s Facebook post ‘Share your thoughts: Top five reasons why Sultan Qaboos is the best leader in the world’

Monday 23 7:00pm

Barcelona-Real Madrid match tweets Time when the return of His Majesty the Sultan was anounced: 7:30pm

GREAT BLESS PEOPLE COUNTRY PEACE GOOD LIFE

NATION

OMAN GOD HEART TOLERANCE

EQUALITY

RELIGIOUS

QABOOS LEADER HUMANITY BEST MAJESTY

HE

KING

LEADERSHIP

SCAN THIS TO INSTANTLY CHECK THE POST IN YOUR PHONE

Tuesday 24 7:00pm

1 hour

His Majesty the Sultan tweets

These are the top tweets in Oman during the 24-hour period after His Majesty returned to Oman. The topic of His Majesty’s return ranked first in the network

LOVE

WORLD

SULTAN

Graphics

Source: trends24.in

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES Celebrations all over the country on return of His Majesty reflected his strong bond with the people of Oman

Times News Service MUSCAT: Citizens and expatriates all over the Sultanate started rejoicing as soon as they heard that His Majesty Sultan Qaboos is back in Oman.

The celebrations all over the country highlighted the strong bond between the people and the leader. The story of “HM returning,” posted online on social networking sites reached out to thousands of readers within minutes of his arrival.

There were 170,000 hits for the HM arrival stories on the Times of

1.

He is a symbol for peace, religious tolerance, equality and humanity.

2. He cares for people.

3. Keeps his nation’s interest first.

4. Never blindly follows other leaders.

5. He is a man with a golden heart.

6. He is a leader with a vision for his people.

7. His thoughts are always for the nation.

8. Common laws for all including Omanis and expatriates.

9. Good governance.

10. Has taken the lead in solving GCC disputes.

11. Broad vision.

12. Personally gets involved in Oman’s development.

13. Because of his honesty.

14. Brought equality among all citizens.

15. Bridging gaps between the Gulf countries.

16. Made Oman a safe country for everyone.

17. Provided housing for everyone.

18. Linked all wilayats with good roads.

19. Good thinker.

20. Displays strong governance.

Oman website till 5 p.m. on Tuesday, while on Facebook it reached out to 108,262 readers.

We also asked readers on their thoughts as to why His Majesty Sultan Qaboos is the best

leader in the world.

Within five hours, the hits reached 101,248 people of which 471 people commented, 323 shared and 6,767 liked the Facebook page.

SHARING SULTANATE’S JOY On behalf of the Indian Embassy and the Indian community in Oman, we would like to congratulate the government and the people of the Sultanate of Oman on the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. We fully share the Sultanate’s joy and celebrations on this occasion. The Indian community in Oman is ever grateful for the benevolence of His Majesty and for providing them with a second home in Oman. While praying for the health, happiness and long life of His Majesty, the Indian community re-commits itself to contribute for the development of Oman.

J S Mukul Ambassador of India

DISPLAY OF LOVE AND AFFECTION It was with greatest joy and happiness that we all have received the news of the safe return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said to His beloved country. The excitement and relief felt by Omanis and expatriates alike was palpable as people celebrated this auspicious occasion in a display of genuine love and affection. I would like to take this opportunity to offer my heartfelt best wishes for the longest and healthiest continuation of His Majesty’s sage and inspiring leadership as well as for the everlasting peace and prosperity of the Omani people.

Uğur Doğan Ambassador of Republic of Turkey

EMBODIMENT OF NATIONAL UNITY On behalf of the Government and the People of Bangladesh and especially from the Bangladesh community living in Oman, I take this opportunity to convey my deepest gratitude and heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on his safe return to the Sultanate after successful completion of medical treatment. His Majesty’s visionary leadership has transformed the Sultanate of Oman into a modern and prosperous country.

The Bangladeshis living and working in the Sultanate of Oman are grateful to His Majesty’s kindness. May Allah the Almighty bestow upon His Majesty bounty of blessings to lead his beloved Nation for many more years.

Sheikh Sekander Ali Ambassador of Bangladesh

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

OMAN GOOD WISHES

HM greets Greece president MUSCAT: His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has sent a cable of greetings to President Prokopis Pavlopoulos of the Republic of Greece on the occasion of his country’s National Day. His Majesty expressed his best wishes to President Pavlopoulos and the friendly people of Greece.–ONA

Arab League hails HM SHARM EL-SHEIKH: The Council of the Arab League wished His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said on the safe return home.

While convening the League’s session on Tuesday the Council expressed its greetings to the Omani people and the Government on this occasion.–ONA

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Positive vibes all around

“It will help improve the market sentiment and will help foreign investors to focus on Oman,” Loai B. Bataineh, general manager and head of investment banking group of Oman Arab Bank, told the Times of Oman.

“This is one of the best driving forces for boosting investor sentiment,” said Bataineh.

“This is what foreign investors have been looking at in the local bourse and it is clearly reflected in today’s market performance. Key stocks like Bank Muscat soared by 3 per cent,” added a senior research analyst, who did not want to be named.

Institutional support Local financial institutions were major buyers, triggered by HM’s return coupled with reasonable valuations. Until Monday, the Omani bourse fell almost 5 per cent since the beginning of the month, which helped the stock market settle down at attractive valuations.

“Investors are expecting more positive developments, especially on project announcements, which will reinforce the market sentiment,” said the analyst.

Echoing a similar view, Anwar Al Balushi, chairman of Anwar Asian Investment, said that the return of His Majesty, who has been ruling the country for more than four decades, encourages and motivates the people.

Foreign direct investment Davis Kallukaran, managing partner of Crowe Horwath Oman, said that the Sultanate has embarked upon huge infrastructure developments across the country to catapult the economy to the glory envisaged by HM in his vision of Oman 2020.

“While the resources within are limited, great emphasis is given to attract foreign direct investments on a large scale. His Majesty’s return home has boosted the enthusiasm of the business community to take on this massive challenge.

Every citizen is overjoyed with the royal presence which I am sure will mark the second renaissance

HAPPY TIME: As people celebrated the return of His Majesty the Sultan, the market sentiment too turned optimistic leading to a spurt in the stock market.– ONA

for Oman,” added Kallukaran.

Eng Abdul Qadir Salim Al Balushi, director general of Sohar Industrial Estate, said that HM’s return will positively affect investment in industrial estates, including the Sohar Industrial Estate. “It will also motivate us to improve our services and do our best to encourage both local and foreign investors to make investments in the Sohar Industrial Estate,” he said adding that the business community in the industrial estates will benefit from the advice of HM regarding how to attract more investments.

Major infrastructure The country has been focusing on the development of major infrastructure, which can encourage investment in all areas, said Abdul Qadir Salim Al Balushi, adding that the Sohar Industrial Estate is witnessing quite good demand in various fields, including chemical products, aluminium, plastic and building materials.

Also, with several large-scale projects coming up, there is a huge potential for integrating small and medium businesses and downstream industries in the Sohar Industrial Estate, added the official.

Mohammed Al Mashani, general manager of corporate affairs, Port of Salalah, said that HM’s

return has brought confidence to the market and to the business community in Oman.

“It was a very positive thing to happen and will definitely give a boost to the economy,” said Al Mashani, adding that it would lead to further investment in various sectors.

He also noted that Port of Salalah would benefit from the positive impact of HM’s return like other segments of the business sector.

Abdul Wahab Abdulkarim Al Balushi, general manager of security and facilitation at the Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC), said that HM’s return to Oman was a great ‘morale booster’ for the whole country, including the business community.

“In this part of the world, leadership plays a very important role and gives moral support to business. The business community has to feel confident and comfortable. This is how business works,” he said, adding that HM’s return has brought a sense of optimism to the market.

“Oman has already been developing and things have been moving in the right direction, but with HM’s return, those question marks and doubts have been put aside for the moment,” said Al Balushi, expressing hope that the

already ‘healthy’ economy will develop further now that HM is in the country.

Dispelling fears Sultan Ali Ahmed Al Busaidi, managing director at the United National Oilfield Services, said that the business sector, along with other segments of the country, is rejoicing over HM’s return to the country. It was a major morale boost for the entire nation and restored confidence and stability in the market, he said.

Al Busaidi added that HM’s presence in the country has dispelled the fears that different initiatives regarding small and medium enterprises (SMEs), youth organisations, funds, In-Country Value (ICV) and other business-related activities may lose momentum.

“Now we are assured that HM is there to manage the things, and we are back to the best state of security,” he said.

In addition, an Omani economic expert, who asked not to be named, said that HM’s return will help improve business prospects in the country.

“New economic decisions may be taken now that HM is back in the country. New projects, which might have been awaiting approval, may be implemented,” he said.

FESTIVITY

ROHM to celebrate HM’s return Times News Service MUSCAT: The Royal Opera House Muscat (ROHM) on Tuesday announced a programme to celebrate the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos Bin Said to Oman.

In a press release issued yesterday , the ROHM welcomed all residents to participate in the grand celebrations of this joyful occasion. The celebration will be brought to life with a weeklong Military Music Show at Al Maydan, which will last one hour (5:15 pm – 6:15 pm).

In addition to this, a daily audio-visual presentation will be showcased from 8 pm–11 pm at the South Porch Entrance, starting from Sunday.

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

Showers in wilayats flood wadis Times News Service MUSCAT: Different parts of Al Dakhiliyah region, including Nizwa, Jabal Al Akhdhar and Barkat Al Mouz witnessed rain and thunderstorm yesterday. The showers led to the overflow of wadis. Due to the wadi’s strong flow, some of the roads were blocked, including the road leading to Jabal Al Akhdhar.

Meanwhile, clear to partly cloudy skies over northern governorates of the sultanate with chances of isolated rain over the governorates of Musandam and North Nl Batinah and chances of clouds development and isolated rain over Al Hajar mountain and adjoining areas towards afternoon. Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and fog patches over Governorates of South al Sharqiya and al Wusta.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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WHO Director General, Margret Chan, expressed the organisation’s appreciation for the efforts made by the Sultanate in developing the health sector. She hailed the advanced level of healthcare services in Oman

I M P O R TA N T G U E S T

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SIX-MONTH JAIL TERM

Omani working in UAE police arrested SALAM AL AMIR DUBAI: An Omani national working as a policeman in the UAE has been jailed after attempting to force a British pilot to pay him Dh3,000 after the Porsche driver made an illegal U-turn in Dubai.

The policeman, was found guilty of seeking and accepting bribes

by Dubai Criminal Court which

HEALTH MISSION: Sayyid Fahd conveyed greetings of His

Majesty the Sultan along with his best wishes of continuous success to the WHO.–ONA

Fahd holds talks with WHO chief MUSCAT: On behalf of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, His Highness Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud Al Said, Deputy Prime Minister for the Council of Ministers on Tuesday received Dr Margret Chan, Director General of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Dr Chan is visiting the Sultanate leading a high ranking delegation comprising her deputy and the regional directors of the WHO regions to attend the Global Policy Group’s regular meeting.

Dr Chan congratulated the Sultanate on the safe return of His Majesty the Sultan to Oman.

Sayyid Fahd conveyed greetings of His Majesty the Sultan along with his best wishes of continuous success to the WHO. He expressed the importance of the role being played by the WHO in global health fields.

Sayyid Fahd reaffirmed the keenness accorded by the Sultanate under the leadership of His Majesty for cooperation with the WHO, particularly in developing primary healthcare and combating communicable diseases.

The WHO Director General expressed the organisation’s appreciation for the efforts made

by the Sultanate in developing the health sector. She hailed the advanced level of healthcare services in Oman. She also lauded Oman’s role in supporting the WHO and hosting its meetings.

Dr Chan expressed the organisation’s willingness to provide its expertise to further enhance healthcare in Sultanate.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Sa’eedi, Minister of Health and Dr Ali bin Talib Al Hina’ei, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health for Planning Affairs.

Global Policies Group Meanwhile, the Global Policies Group meeting (GPG) organised by the WHO continued its session for the second day in Muscat on Tuesday. The meeting discussed a number of issues, including WHO administrative and financial reforms, the Ebola virus and the budget for the financial year 2016–2017.

The meeting discussed issues related to global health policies, updates in international health affairs and medical emergency techniques. It familiarised the participants with the Omani health sector.–ONA

sentenced him to a six-month jail term and fined him Dh3,000 and ordered his deportation after completing his jail term, The National has reported.

Emirates Airline pilot R D, 32, said that on June 22, last year he was driving his Porsche Carrera near the Mall of the Emirates when he took an illegal U-turn.

“A police patrol followed me

then stopped me and the officer asked for my licence and registration,” the Briton said. “He told me that I made a grave mistake that could have landed me in a traffic accident.”

“He told me he will seize the car then asked me to wait until he talked to his partner,” said R D. “He then returned and gave me back my documents but asked for my

mobile number. He called later and asked for the Dh2,500 in order not to seize the car.”

Police told him not to answer calls from the officer until a warrant was obtained.

The Omani defendant was later arrested in a sting operation while he was still in uniform. “This didn’t happen,” said the policeman in court, denying the charge.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

OMAN T W O - D AY F O R U M

Oman to host major airport conference MUSCAT: Operational preparedness while migrating to new airports wil be the subject of an international conference to be hosted

by Oman under the patronage of Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications.

The idea of the two-day conference, to be held at Shangri La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa on Wednesday, emanated from the Oman Airports Management Company’s (OAMC) desire to review similar international experiences.

The forum will bring together companies involved in the management and operation of some of

the best airports to review their experiences and benefit from the success factors that ensured a smooth shift to new airports.

It will also review the challenges, difficulties and gaps that led to failure while shifting to actual operations by some other airports.

OAMC seeks to achieve maximum benefit by reviewing these experiences, enhancing the strength areas and eliminating the weakness areas by developing pre-set plans that ensure a smooth shift to the actual operation stage, full readiness and sustainable success of the different aspects of operations. -ONA

After the successful launch of Alila Jabal Akhdar, our first luxury development outside Asia located in Oman’s Al Hajjar mountain range, we are honoured to expand our collection of luxury resorts in the Middle East, particularly in Oman Mark Edleson, President of Alila Hotels and Resorts

Pakistani community welcomes HM’s return Pakistan’s ambassador to Oman, hoisted the Pakistani flag to start the festivities attended by a large number of Pakistanis and Omanis

SARAH MACDONALD

sarah@timesofoman.com MUSCAT: It was as doubly joyful occasion as the Pakistani community in Muscat celebrated their country’s 75th National Day as well as His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said’s return to Oman.

At the 75th Pakistan National Day celebrations at the Crowne Plaza on Monday evening ambassador Ayaz Hussain spoke candidly for a few minutes to share his joy about the long-awaited news of His Majesty’s return.

“This speech I have written about 15 or 20 days before and there was one prayer. The prayer was for the return and the recovery of Sultan and today we learned the Sultan, mashallah, has re- Ayaz Hussain turned to the Sultanate,” Hussain said to a warm applause.

The ambassador went on to “Today in Pakistan we are conspeak about the importance of his solidating democracy, simulating country’s national day, its current economic growth, and defeating state of affairs, and its relations forces of extremism. We are workwith Oman. March 23 marks the ing for a stable neighbourhood, for day in 1940 when a separate Mus- peace, for amity, and for harmolim homeland was called for by ny,” Hussain commented. the Muslim League in what was Hussain said his country faces then British India, laying ground- many challenges but is a resilient work for the eventual independ- and strong nation which will work ence of Pakistan in 1947. for a better future.

Pictures by Shabin E/TIMES OF OMAN

He said he was proud to see many Pakistanis contributing to Omani society and development and he thanked them for upholding a “positive image of Pakistan through their hard work and dedication.”

The ambassador said since arriving in Oman less two years ago he has been impressed by the development he has witnessed and said he and all Pakistanis

are proud of Oman’s success. He added that he hoped the relations between the two countries would strengthen in years to come.

“This past year has been good for our strategic partnership, from bilateral trade and people-topeople contacts, but we want our trade to grow, investment still to increase, and interflow of people to surge,” he noted.

H E A LT H

Al Futaisi, Irish delegation discuss training, education MUSCAT: To ensure training opportunities for Omani physicians, Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed Al Futaisi, chief executive officer of the Omani Medical Specialties Board (OMSB) met with a delegation from the Royal College of Physicians of the Republic of Ireland (RCPI).

They discussed some of the agreements of OMSB with various international colleges within the framework of joint cooperation between the countries in the areas of education and medical training.

The meeting aims to follow up Omani physicians, members of

Omani Medical Specialties Board within the different medical specialties and take advantage of the expertise offered by the College to trainee physicians, to follow modern systems to provide good programmes for dispatched Omani cadres, in addition to search for the best training opportunities for the development of Omani physicians and provide them with the requisite skills, as Omani Medical Specialties Board was working on consolidating relations of cooperation in the field of advanced medical training in the past year and the exchange of visits with the Royal College

of Physicians in the Republic of Ireland.

Joint cooperation This relationship resulted in the signing of a memorandum of joint cooperation between the two parties, headed by Professor Frank Murray, President of the Royal College of Physicians and his accompanying delegation and Dr. Al Futaisi, CEO of the Omani Medical Specialties Board in the field of education, where the two parties agreed to provide opportunities for education and advanced medical training for Omani physicians in various medical specialties. -ONA

M I R B AT LU X U RY R E S O R T

Alila Hotels announces plan for second resort in Sultanate Times News Service MUSCAT: Alila Hotels and Resorts has announced plans to open its second luxury resort development in Mirbat, east of Salalah, a coastal town in the Dhofar governorate, in South-western Oman.

The development is owned by Alil Salalah, a subsidiary of the Oman Investment Fund.

“After the successful launch of Alila Jabal Akhdar, our first luxury development outside Asia located in Oman’s Al Hajjar mountain range, we are honoured to expand our collection of luxury resorts in the Middle East, particularly in Oman,” said Mark Edleson, President of Alila Hotels and Resorts.

“Salalah is another unique micro-environment in Oman with its tropical monsoons, special culture and the beautiful beaches of Mirbat. We can now offer our guests the Hajjar Mountains and Mirbat beaches in one Oman holiday. Furthermore, we look forward to deepening our relationship with the Oman Investment Fund,” he added.

Supplied picture

Slated to launch in the second half of 2017, Alila Salalah is envisioned as a unique ecologically sensitive luxury destination resort, comprising 100 suites, 25 villas, fine dining restaurants and a Spa Alila wellness centre. The resort will distinguish itself by its contemporary Dhofari architecture.

Lifestyle choices The signature Alila hospitality services, are highly personalised and tailored to its clientele’s lifestyle choices and rhythm, offering unique ways to discover the destination

and engage in the local culture and traditions of the Dhofar region. The increased investment and development of infrastructure includes the new international airport scheduled to be fully operational in April 2015 and the expansion of the port of Salalah.

The project will significantly enhance the product offering and attractiveness of Dhofar and Salalah as a major tourist destination, providing additional growth opportunities to the domestic market while drawing new visitors to the Dhofar governorate.

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MEETING

Syria, Iraq discuss tackling militants AMMAN/BEIRUT: The foreign ministers of Syria and Iraq met in Damascus on Tuesday to discuss ways to tackle militant groups and Syria said it hoped Baghdad would help “break the siege” against it, Syrian state media said, ahead of an Arab summit.

Tuesday’s discussions “focused on the fight against terrorism and common dangers that threaten

our countries”, Syrian state television said, citing a joint news conference by the foreign ministers at Damascus airport. It did not specify which groups the discussions were referring to.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Ibrahim Al Jaafari, who also met Assad, is one of the most senior foreign officials to visit Syria recently.

His country has acted as a go-

between for information about the US-led strikes against IS in both countries.

“I have great confidence that Dr Ibrahim and our brotherly leaders in Iraq will not spare any effort to break the siege which was imposed upon Syria,” Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Al Muallem said, appearing to refer to his country’s international isolation. — Reuters

REGION

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

REGION

Houthi fighters have entered the Red Sea port of Al Mukha, bringing them closer to Hadi’s refuge in Aden, security officials and residents said on Tuesday

Houthis, allied army take town 100km north of Aden Houthi fighters have entered the Red Sea port of Al Mukha, bringing them closer to Hadi’s refuge in Aden, security officials and residents said

ADEN/DOHA: Houthi fighters and allied army units captured the town of Kirsh, about 100km (62 miles) north of Yemen’s second city of Aden, on Tuesday after heavy fighting with forces loyal to President Abdurabbo Mansour Hadi, local officials and residents said.

The area sits astride a main north-south road and lies about a 40-minute drive to the north of a major airbase, Al Anad, which remains in the hands of Hadi, who is based in Aden. Houthi fighters have entered the Red Sea port of Al Mukha, bringing them closer to Hadi’s refuge in Aden, security officials and residents said on Tuesday. The advance also placed the Houthis, who seized Yemen’s capital Sanaa in September, a short drive from the Bab Al Mandeb strait, a Red Sea shipping lane vital to oil shipments.

Hotbed of separatism To the east, Houthi units on Tuesday entered Dhalea town, traditionally a hotbed of southern separatism, and fought gun battles with tribesmen and militias from the southern independence movement, residents said.

Residents said the Houthi fight-

RUNNING FOR SAFETY: Anti-Houthi protesters run as pro-Houthi police troopers open fire to disperse them in Yemen’s southwestern city of Taiz on Tuesday. Troops aligned with Yemen’s dominant Houthi militia shot dead at least four demonstrators during protests against the movement in and outside the central city of Taiz, medical officials said. – Reuters

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ers entered Al Mukha, the southernmost Yemeni port before the Red Sea tapers to its narrowest point, overnight. They were accompanied by units from Yemen’s divided military.

A Houthi spokesman could not be reached for comment.

Security officials said the Houthis’ motive in entering Al Mukha, about 80km (50 miles) north of Bab Al Mandeb might be to reach a new coastal highway that links the town to Aden, a 260-km drive away, rather than to obtain control of the strait.

Bab Al Mandeb - which means Gate of Tears in Arabic - links the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean via the Suez Canal. More

than 3.4 million barrels of oil per day passed through Bab Al Mandeb in tankers in 2013, according to the US Energy Information Administration. Hadi’s forces have stationed tanks and artillery on a number of roads linking north and south Yemen and residents reported clashes between the rivals forces on Tuesday morning on a main road 125km (80 miles) north of Aden. An array of tribesmen, militiamen and army units loyal to Hadi are resisting the southward advance of the Houthis in skirmishes that have escalated since the weekend.

Four shot in Taiz The Houthis’ arrival in Dhalea mark their first inroads into the territory of the formerly independent south: The town has for years been the centre of an armed movement to secede from Sanaa.

Troops aligned with Houthi militia shot dead at least four

demonstrators on Tuesday during protests against the movement in and outside the central city of Taiz, medical officials said.

Hundreds of activists set up a protest camp in the city centre of Taiz on Sunday when Houthi fighters and aligned army units seized the highland city, a takeover that has angered many residents but encountered little military opposition.

30 killed in clashes At least 30 people have been killed in clashes between pro- and anti-government forces in central Yemen, tribal sources said on Tuesday.

The Houthi militia, backed by troops allied to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, clashed with armed tribesmen in Baida province late Monday, the sources said, adding that nine tribesmen and 15 Houthi fighters were killed.

The tribesmen booby-trapped

two houses used as bases by Houthi fighters and ambushed several patrols, the sources added.

Clashes raged in Marib, east of Sanaa, where tribesmen loyal to Yemen’s President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi confronted advancing Houthi fighters and proSaleh troops, tribal sources said.

Six tribesmen, including a tribal chief, were killed in these clashes.

The sources said that many Houthis had also been killed.

The advancing forces included units from the former presidential guard, an elite force that Saleh built during his three-decade rule, the sources added.

The gunfights took place as the Houthis, who seized control of Sanaa last year, sent additional reinforcements south, upping pressure on Hadi, who is refuged in the southern port city of Aden.

Military sources in south Yemen said that reinforcements from the army’s Al Hamza Brigade -- under Saleh’s command -- had been mobilised from central Ibb province to Qatabah, in Daleh, some 120 kilometres (75 miles) north of Aden.

Dozens of tanks belonging to the 133rd Brigade, also loyal to Saleh, were also sent to Qatabah, military sources and witnesses said. The reinforcements came as anti-Hadi forces deployed south of the key city of Taez, which lies strategically on the road between Sanaa and Aden.

Demonstrations continued Tuesday in Taez against the arrival of pro-Saleh forces and militiamen in the city, after security sources said they seized the airport. The head of Taez police denied late Monday that the airport or other government installations had been taken over.

In a statement carried by Saba state news agency, which is now controlled by anti-Hadi forces, General Mutahar Al Shuaybi said air traffic at Taez remained “normal”. — Agencies

SECURITY REASONS

Tunisia closes airspace to flights from western Libya TUNIS: Tunisia has again closed its airspace for flights from western Libya, an official said on Tuesday, just days after allowing Libyan planes from Tripoli back for the first time in around six months.

“We’ve suspended temporarily again Libya flights for security reasons,” the transport ministry official said, without elaborating.

The moves come after militants killed 20 foreign tourists in an attack on the national museum in Tunis last week.

Tunisian officials say the two gunmen had been trained at a militant camp in Libya, where IS militant group has made inroads.

Worried Tunisia is worried that violence will spill over from Libya, where two rival governments fight for control four years after the ousting of Muammar Gaddafi. Libyan airlines had been allowed only since last week to resume flights to Tunis from Tripoli and other airports in western Libya outside the control of the official government.

The internationally recognised administration has been based in the east since losing control of Tripoli in August when an armed group seized the capital and parts of western Libya. Flights from Tunis to eastern Libya have never stopped. Tunisia is the lifeline for many Libyans seeking to escape violence or travel abroad. Foreign airlines and embassies have mostly withdrawn from Libya for security reasons. The few foreign connections from Libyan airlines are often booked out for weeks.

On Monday, Libyan pro-government forces said they had targeted a weapons depot belonging to an hardliners-backed militia, as peace talks continued in Morocco and a UN special envoy met both sides late Monday. A militia spokesman said however that the raid had hit a refugee camp, killing eight civilians. — Reuters

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Lee Kuan Yew’s mixed legacy in Singapore

L

ee Kuan Yew, the founding leader of Singapore who died on Monday morning, was a towering figure on the global stage who helped transform his small city-state into an economic powerhouse. President Obama went so far as to describe Lee as a “true giant of history.” But praising Lee, who was 91, for his vision, as many have, would be incomplete. His leadership undoubtedly helped make Singapore one of the richest and least corrupt countries in the world. His “Singapore model” of economic development inspired other leaders, including Deng Xiaoping of China, toward free-market policies. He was also an autocrat who silenced critics and sent opposition leaders to jail, suppressing dissent and intimidating the press.

Lee did not deny these tactics and, indeed, revelled in them. “Nobody doubts that if you take me on, I will put on knuckle-dusters and catch you in a cul-de-sac,” he said in 1994. And that was after he had ostensibly stepped aside as prime minister to become senior minister, a position from which he continued to exercise significant influence.

People on the receiving end of those dirty tricks like the opposition politicians J.B. Jeyaretnam and Chee Soon Juan were ruined financially after losing defamation suits brought by Lee and his family.

By the standards of Southeast Asian autocrats, Lee was hardly a tyrant. He did not brutalise and impoverish his country, unlike military leaders in Myanmar and Cambodia. And he has been far more successful at turning Singapore into a developed nation than other strongmen in neighbouring Malaysia and Indonesia. Nevertheless, he and his protégés in the ruling People’s Action Party — including Lee Hsien Loong, his eldest son and the current prime minister — maintained tight control over politics and speech long after other fastgrowing Asian nations like South Korea and Taiwan became competitive democracies, and long after Singapore had achieved the kind of prosperity that Lee had cited as a reason to limit free expression and multiparty democracy.

If there ever was a moment for Singapore to embrace democratic principles fully, it is at hand. The country’s 5.6 million people appear to be increasingly unhappy with one-party rule and growing income inequality. In an election in 2011, despite formidable obstacles, opposition parties got 40 per cent of the vote, though a much smaller share of seats in Parliament. And, in recent years, poorly paid migrant workers from China and South Asia have held protests and, in late 2013, rioted in the streets. As Singapore reflects on Lee’s legacy, in seven days of national mourning, many people will focus on the country’s economic growth under his rule. But a leader’s accomplishments should not be measured by material achievements alone. The next generation of leaders should make Singapore a political model, not just an economic one. - The New York Times News Service

GROWING RANCOUR

The bickering allies of United States in Asia KENT HARRINGTON

Finally, solution is in sight

I

t seems the political crisis that had been brewing in Pakistan for many months between the ruling party and the PTI, over alleged rigging in the 2013 general election, may finally be moving towards resolution. This is a hugely welcome development given that the ‘long march’ to Islamabad, staged by the PTI in August last year, followed by a 126-day demonstration and street protests and rallies in different cities, had threatened to bring the country to a halt. Against this background, the agreement reached on March 20 between senior leaders of the PML-N and the PTI to set up a judicial commission to probe the 2013 polls is a positive move. As Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, who led the government delegation, has said the agreement on this had almost been reached late last year with discord remaining mainly on the wording of the document signed by both parties.

This has now been worked out with the agreement setting up a judicial commission to look into the impartiality or otherwise of the manner in which the 2013 polls were conducted, the question of whether anyone tried to manipulate them and whether they were on the whole fair and free. The undertaking of this task, which will be carried out through an ordinance covering the setting up of the commission, is important beyond party lines too. It will help us determine how the crucial matter of holding elections is carried out in our democracy and one hopes that the commission that is formed will function in a fair and honest manner. Both sides have agreed that with the establishment of the commission, there is no further room for tension.

We must hope then that both parties will be able to work together to solve the doubts that still exist over electoral rigging and the problems stemming from this. Imran Khan has described this settlement as a “victory”. In some ways, it is indeed just that even if some might feel otherwise. It is a victory for the whole country which now gets an opportunity to bring matters out into the open and settle the doubts that have been hanging in the air for far too long. We need to put these doubts to rest and by doing so also improve working relations between parties. . - The Express Tribune

Oman is happy because His Majesty has returned home For over eight months we have been praying for the good health of His majesty and waiting for his return from Germany. And we, the nationals and expatriates, are more than happy that His Majesty has returned in good health. There is no debate on the fact that Oman today, ruled and guided by His majesty, stands head over shoulder above the rest of other Gulf and North African nations in terms of its stability, both political and economic, peacefulness and in availability of amenities of all conceivable types — civic, health care, financial etc. And according to acclaimed international index, Oman occupies the top position in the entire Gulf region as the best place to live and doing business — an oasis amid an endless swathe of

arid desolation. May His Majesty have a long life and sound health.

Anu Shaikh Wadi Kabir

Celebrations prove Oman’s love for His Majesty I felt ecstatic when I saw a large number of vehicles on roads in Wadi Kabir in Muscat in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. The vehicles were colourfully decorated with Oman’s national colours and flags and picture of His majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. People were celebrating the return of His Majesty from Germany after eight long months of treatment. Their happiness and enthusiasm showed how much His majesty the Sultan is loved by his people. We in Oman are indebted to the Almighty for granting our beloved leader, His

Repairing relations between South Korea and Japan could not be more urgent. Even with good will on both sides, it will take time to build a strong defence partnership. Effective military cooperation requires personal ties that take years to build

A

merican diplomats like to portray their country’s allies in glowing terms. So the world should take note when they do not — such as when US Under Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, at a recent conference in Washington, DC, on Asian security, publicly scolded South Korea for its seemingly endless vilification of Japan. According to Sherman, South Korea’s stance — reflected in its demand that Japan apologise, once again, for forcing Korean women to provide services to the Imperial Army during World War II — has produced “paralysis, not progress.”

But Sherman’s criticism could also be levelled against Japan. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has rarely missed an opportunity to provoke Japan’s Korean critics, whether by visiting Tokyo’s Yasukuni shrine, where the “souls” of 14 Class A war criminals are interred, or embracing revisionist critiques of previous official apologies for Japanese aggression.

Instead of working together to help their American ally confront the challenges posed by a rising China and the North Korean nuclear threat, South Korea and Japan have allowed their rancour to stymie effective action. This seemingly endless tension has been frustrating — and worrying — American leaders for years, especially as it has undermined the United States’ strategic “pivot” toward Asia.

Since President Barack Obama announced the pivot five years ago, the US has been attempting to bolster its forces and alliances in Asia, thereby reinforcing its strategic role in a region that China is increasingly attempting to dominate. But the relentless sniping by its two most important Asian allies has blocked the kind of concrete cooperation needed to help it achieve its main goals, including ensuring a durable, long-term military presence in the region.

Intelligence sharing is a case in point. In December, US officials, seeking to better their understanding of North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs — and enable commanders to react swiftly if potential threats materialise — announced a new information-sharing agreement with South Korea and Japan. But the deal could be a script for a situation comedy: Japan and South Korea refuse to provide intelligence data to each other, leaving the US to play the middleman. The US has accentuated the positive, calling the agreement an important step forward. But, though it does represent progress from 2012, when popular opposition in South Korea to the idea of military cooperation with Japan caused a similar agreement to collapse, the latest effort is inefficient, at best. China has been eager to capitalise on the animosity between Japan and South Korea to undermine America’s security interests in Asia.

During a visit to South Korea last July, President

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Life is not so important as the duties of life JOHN RANDOLPH

Xi Jinping highlighted not only the two countries’ deepening economic relationship, but also their shared views regarding Japan’s wartime past. Other Chinese officials have picked up the theme, dropping hints that China’s 70th anniversary celebration of the end of World War II could exclude Japan — unless, that is, Japan is more contrite about its historic transgressions.

It is time for the US to tell its Asian allies to get over it. As the underwriter of both Japan’s and South Korea’s national defence, the US simply cannot allow their historical animosities to impede action to address urgent threats in this critical region.

The timing could not be better, as rising security fears are altering public perceptions. Recent opinion polls suggest that at least half of all South Koreans are worried enough about regional tensions to support closer military ties with Japan.

And, indeed, the security risks facing Asia are only growing — exemplified in China’s move from military expansion to assertiveness. Most notably, in the South and East China Seas, China has been staking its claim to disputed island territories, deploying advanced military hardware, and aggressively patrolling an expanded security zone.

Meanwhile, leaks from Chinese think tanks have suggested that if the North Korean regime collapses, China could well send troops to preserve the country’s stability. Asia’s new security landscape places a premium on seamless cooperation among US allies — a prospect that the sustained bickering between South Korea and Japan calls into question. It could even be said that their longstanding dispute makes America’s Asian alliance system worth less than the sum of its parts. Repairing relations between South Korean and Japan could not be more urgent. Even with good will on both sides, it will take time to build a strong defence partnership. Effective military cooperation requires personal ties that take years to build, and, aside from some joint naval and air exercises, the two countries have little experience working together. Boosting technical interoperability also will take considerable time, though both countries maintain sophisticated defence forces with great potential to be linked together.

After spending the last six decades defending South Korea and Japan, the US has every reason — and plenty of leverage — to demand that its two long-time allies enhance their military cooperation.

Simply focusing on the positive — America’s classic approach to alliance diplomacy — is no longer enough. Whatever their historical disagreements, South Korea and Japan both face serious risks in their immediate neighbourhood. It is up to the US to ensure that they work together to protect themselves — and ensure long-term stability throughout Asia. – Project Syndicate

Majesty a good health.

Syed Qaiser Jafri Muscat

His Majesty’s return has brought relief and ecstasy The eagerly awaited news of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said returning home after undergoing treatment overseas for eight months brought happiness and relief to all citizens and expatriate residents of the Sultanate of Oman. The safety and security that we, both expariates and nationals, enjoy in this country under his valuable guidance and administration are commendable and worth emulating. He has build the nation, given it a mission and has secured its future.

Usha Devi Rao Suddapalli Ruwi

Return of His Majesty has enthused the country I felt happiness soaring in me when I learnt about the return of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said from Germany after eight months. Honestly speaking, I have never seen any ruler been so venerated by his people. We the expatriates who live in this wonderful country equally share the veneration of the nationals for His Majesty. His absence was really felt and a void was getting bigger.

Now that His Majesty has returned we, both nationals and expatriates, will certainly be having a purpose to work with renewed zeal and enthusiasm for the growth of the country; we are now feeling encouraged in facing all challenges with grit and determination.

Mohammed Osama Rawat Ruwi

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

T I M E S OF OMAN

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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PERSPEC IVE His Majesty Sultan Qaboos has given Oman a sense of purpose I

DEBASISH MITRA

Few rulers, politicians or sovereigns, have ever been so venerated as the monarch of Oman. In working to modernise his country and teleport it to the twenty first century His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said essentially led a peaceful revolution

n jubilation over the return of His Majesty, Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Oman embodies the rules of joy the German philosopher Immanuel Kant so well defined more than two centuries ago. Kant said, “Rules for Happiness: something to do, someone to love, something to hope for.” As his Majesty returned home on Monday evening after over eight months of medical treatment in Germany Oman has indeed found something to do, something to love and something to hope for.

Few rulers, politicians or sovereigns, have ever been so venerated as the monarch of Oman. In working to modernise his country and teleport it to the twenty first century His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said essentially led a peaceful revolution rarely seen in the Arab world and even elsewhere.

Not many outside the Sultanate will realise the reverence His Majesty commands in Oman. And people living in this country certainly have a billion good reasons to be reverent. His reign, the best thing which could have happened to Oman, has been an epitome of what His Majesty always believed and followed: “The more thought becomes diverse, open and free of fanaticism, the more it becomes a correct and sound basis for building generations, the progress of nations and the advancement of societies.”

Oman’s transformation into one of the most modern and advanced nations in the world has precisely been a magic — charm of vision and an extremely bold outlook envisioned by its ruler, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said. A farsighted among seers, His Majesty transformed an inwardly looking Sultanate of Oman inside out in less than the lifetime of a single generation.

Oman took the world by storm. Forty five years ago, to be precise, when the Sultanate, led by its young and visionary ruler His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, initiated the Renaissance little did the world imagine that so onerous a task could be achieved in such a record time. His Majesty the Sultan empowered Oman to take a massive frog leap to the full blaze of modernisation in less than the lifetime of a single generation.

With the gift of hind sight, it can safely be surmised that Oman owes much to His Majesty’s administrative reforms for its growth, development, modernisation and entry into the twenty first century. These administrative reforms not only ensured democratisation of the governance but also ensured stability.

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos and the Renaissance he initiated gave the nation and its citizens a sense of purpose. Oman’s aspirations and the expectations of the Omanis are perceptibly different from that of their regional brethren — both in terms of essence and character. The aspiration of the nation today is not to change the regime but perceptibly seeks improvement over it. His Majesty has steadily steered the nation towards a broader liberal system. He united the

country and in a unique demonstration of a classic nation building strategy and successfully brought the erstwhile separatists into the national mainstream.

The reign of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos has been marked by his deep understanding of the Omani culture and tradition — the need to “balance the tradition of royal sovereignty with the demands of popular participation in government”. And that was why he always remained cognizant “of the political tradition of shura, or consultation, a central principle of Oman’s Ibadi school of Islam. The shura tradition was institutionalised in 1981 with the creation of the State Consultative Council (SCC)”.

Within a relatively short period of time reputation of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos as an apostle of global peace and a liberal ruler crossed beyond the geographical horizons of the Sultanate, Middle East and Arab world. International recognitions poured forth from all over the world.

At the core of such global perspective lay his unique foreign policy. Joseph Kechichian, in his much-read book, Oman and the World: The Emergence of an Independent Foreign Policy, concludes that Oman made great strides in foreign policy relations since His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said took over the rule of the Sultanate.

What Kechichian finds consistently evident in His Majesty’s foreign policy is pragmatism. His Majesty overestimated neither Oman’s capabilities nor other nations’ intentions toward the Sultanate. Never did he rule out former enemies as potential partners nor hesitated in undertaking bold initiatives that served the long-term goals of securing Oman’s political, economic, and security needs.

His Majesty’s foreign policy was marked by balancing interests, tolerance toward differences, and a determined search for mutual benefits. While its neighbours in the Middle East were busy pursuing policies driven by ideology and short-term gains, the Sultanate of Oman pursued its own course, holding on to the belief that peaceful co-existence is critical to the holistic, long-term goals of Omani security and prosperity.

Like the legendary French leader and president, Charles De Gaulle, the vision and dynamism of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said portrayed a certain idea of Oman and engaged all his energy in the restoration of its past glories on the foundations of its legacy to achieve the best of the Western and Eastern modern civilisations. Oman, led and ruled by His Majesty, today offers a unique symbiosis of some of the finest and most advanced civilisations of the world.

The author is the Opinion Editor of Times of Oman. All the views and opinions expressed in the article are solely those of the author and do not reflect those of Times of Oman. He can be reached at opinioneditor@timesofoman.com

An exceptional and pragmatic leader PETER POPHAM

W

hen I went to stay with a relative in Singapore in the mid-1980s, I marvelled at the fact that the charming old colonial house he was renting had survived intact, surrounded by the booming city state’s office towers. Simple, he explained: the owner of the land it stood on was at school with Lee Kuan Yew, and had made the grave mistake of bullying the little fellow. He had wanted to knock the house down and build something more profitable for years, but for some reason planning permission was always refused.

For Lee Kuan Yew the personal was intensely political and viceversa: modern Singapore was his creation, he was immensely proud of it, and for half a century he was not merely the city-state’s prime minister but also its unquestioned boss.

Overseas Chinese had made fortunes and established business dynasties across south-east Asia under the protection of the colonial powers, but once independence arrived their differences from the majority populations — of ethnicity, language

and customs as well as wealth — often inhibited them from seeking the political power to which their financial clout and business skills would otherwise have opened the door.

Singapore, so small, so strategically located, was the exception that proved that rule, and Lee Kuan Yew turned out to be an entirely exceptional leader.

Singapore’s break with Malaysia in 1965, six years after he came to power, was “a moment of anguish”, he later said, but it was also the making of the city-state, and of his own political pre-eminence.

Poised on the Malacca Strait which controls sea trade between south and east Asia, Singapore was one of those colonial possessions, like Aden and Hong Kong, that were brought into being by the imperatives of the maritime trading empire, and in his style of rule Lee was the inspired successor to the British: balancing authoritarianism with pragmatism; committed, like the British colonial government, to the rule of law but with no interest in complicating matters by introducing real democracy; lacking the racial or

religious chauvinism that plagued other Asian territories after independence, so the Malays, Indians and other non-Chinese Singaporeans continued to prosper under his rule without having to worry about political or religious persecution.

Just as remarkable was Lee’s freedom from the taint of corruption, and he succeeded in imposing a high standard of morality on the territory.

Deng Xiaoping was doubtless inspired by Lee’s achievement when he turned the attention of the People’s Republic to capitalism.

Singapore’s success has been a beacon to other maritime entities like Qatar and Abu Dhabi: proof that pocket size plus strategic location is potentially a recipe for post-colonial success, if shrewdly (and undemocratically) managed.

If those statelets also share with Singapore a certain deracinated dullness, a lack of genuine cultural vigour — compared with dynamic, rackety Hong Kong, Singapore was always a bore — that is probably part of the package. – The Independent

The battle for Russia DOMINIQUE MOISI

W

hen I heard the news about the assassination of the Russian politician Boris Nemtsov in Moscow, I was reminded of a conversation I once had with a Soviet dignitary before the fall of the Berlin Wall.

We were walking alone in the park at Versailles, talking in general terms about the twentieth century and its tragedies when my Soviet guest suddenly uttered something that has stayed with me ever since.

“Russians have suffered more in this century than any other people,” he said.

“During the First and Second World Wars, no other country suffered as many deaths as we did. But it was Soviet power, through a combination of purges and forced famines, that killed more of its children than all the enemies of Russia combined.”

The tragedy of Russia is that it poses as great a threat to itself as it does to its neighbours. As Europe faces off with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Ukraine, a larger and ultimately more important battle is taking place within Russia itself, one that pits the country’s rich culture against the cruel mendacity of its politics.

Given the nature of Putin’s regime, we will likely never know the truth behind Nemtsov’s murder. But it is impossible to contemplate the case without thinking that somehow, directly or indirectly, the path to assassination started near the Kremlin’s door.

Putin has expertly used an endless and highly professional barrage of propaganda to widen the gulf between the beliefs of most Russians and those of most Westerners.

Indeed, official propaganda — playing off deep strains of nationalism — is the key that allows the Kremlin to foment a climate of jingoism and intolerance. The power of Putin’s propaganda can be seen in the way it resonates far beyond Russia’s borders. During Soviet times, it was easy to understand how the communist ideal could seduce those of generous spirit, even if its promise of a just and free society ultimately turned out to be a lie. What is harder to explain — beyond the crass financial and commercial interests of some — is why so many in Western Europe demonstrate such an affinity for Russia today.

For some, it may be the allure of anti-Americanism, mixed with the defense of conservative values and the rejection of liberal “decadence” (for which Exhibit A is the West’s growing social acceptance of same-sex marriage). Others may be search-

In the immediate aftermath of the fall of the Soviet Union, I was lucky to meet young idealistic Russians.

These young idealists may have lost many battles, but the war is far from finished.

Their banners rose again shortly after Nemtsov’s assassination ing for an ally in the face of a greater threat.

Just as some in the West advocated cooperation with Nazi Germany against what they saw as the far more menacing Soviet threat, so today some support Putin as a partner against the danger of fundamentalism.

Russia’s Western allies do not necessarily like the regime — just as many of Germany’s supporters abhorred the Nazis — but there seems to be no alternative.

In tough times, according to this view, one cannot choose one’s allies.

The result can be seen in the perfectly logical alliance between Europe’s populist parties — for many of which the greater threat seems to be the European Union — and Putin’s kitschy imperialism.

For now, in the struggle for the Russian soul, its venal politics seems to have the upper hand. But, although the country remains mired in violence and fear, there are signs of light in the darkness.

In the immediate aftermath of the fall of the Soviet Union, I was lucky enough to meet young idealistic Russians like Nemtsov. They believed in democracy and the rule of law and did not consider these values to be incompatible with Russian history and culture.

In their enthusiasm and audacity, they reminded me of the young generals of the French Revolution. But the battlefields these young Russians were fighting on were in the realm of ideas, and their struggle was for freedom, not territory.

These young idealists may have lost many battles, but the war is far from finished.

Their banners rose again, shortly after Nemtsov’s assassination, when tens of thousands of Russians took to the streets in protest.

The forest of Russian flags provided a powerful symbol, a promise that another Russia was possible — and may yet still be. - Project Syndicate

Lee Kuan Yew, 1923-2015

TODAY IN HISTORY

The founding father of modern Singapore and the city-state’s first and longest serving prime minister, has died aged 91

Key dates in life of lee kuan yew Sep 16, 1923 Born in then British colony of Singapore 1942-45 Education at Raffles College interrupted by Japanese occupation of Singapore during World War II 1946 Studies law at Cambridge University in England, where he is known as “Harry” 1947 Secretly marries fellow student Kwa Geok Choo 1950 Returns to Singapore 1954 Helps form People’s Action Party (PAP) and becomes party’s secretary-general

1959 Britain grants Singapore self-governance in all matters except defence and foreign affairs 1963 Declares full independence from Britain.

Singapore unites with Malaya to form Federation of Malaysia 1965 Singapore splits from Malaysia to become independent 1990 Resigns as prime minister – but continues to wield influence – after more than 20 years of spectacular economic growth in Singapore 2004 Son Lee Hsein Loong becomes prime minister

1955 Wins seat in legislative assembly and with his wife starts law firm Lee & Lee

2011 Resigns from executive committee of PAP after poor election results

1959 Becomes Singapore’s first prime minister after PAP wins decisive election victory

Mar 23, 2015 Lee dies six weeks after being hospitalized with severe pneumonia

Source: Associated Press

Graphic News /

708

Constantine begins his reign as Catholic Pope.

1776

The Continental Congress authorizes a medal for General George Washington.

1807

British Parliament abolishes the slave trade.

1879

Japan invades the kingdom of Liuqiu (Ryukyu) Islands, formerly a vassal of China.

1919

The Paris Peace Commission adopts a plan to protect nations from the influx of foreign labor.

1941

Yugoslavia joins the Axis powers.

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Apex court strikes down ban on online ‘offensive’ content

D ATA C O L L E C T I O N

India’s frugal Mars mission extended by six months

Congress admits to flaws in cyber law

Justice Nariman, who pronounced the verdict in a packed court room, also said that the provision ‘clearly affects’ the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression enshrined under the Constitution

NEW DELHI: In a landmark judgement upholding freedom of expression, the Supreme Court of India on Tuesday struck down a provision in the cyber law which provides power to arrest a person for posting allegedly “offensive” content on websites.

Terming liberty of thought and expression as “cardinal”, a bench of justices J. Chelameswar and R. F. Nariman said, “The public’s right to know is directly affected by section 66A of the Information Technology Act.” Justice Nariman, who pronounced the verdict in a packed court room, also said that the provision “clearly affects” the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression enshrined under the Constitution.

Referred judgements Elaborating the grounds for holding the provision as “unconstitutional”, it said terms like “annoying”, “inconvenient” and “grossly offensive”, used in the provision are vague as it is difficult for the

ELATED: Rinu Srinivasan who was arrested for posting comments on the social networking site against the shutdown in Mumbai following Bal Thackeray’s death reacts after the Supreme Court struck down Section 66 A of the IT Act, in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. - PTI

law enforcement agency and the offender to know the ingredients of the offence.

The bench also referred to two judgements of separate UK courts which reached different conclusions as to whether the material in question was offensive or grossly offensive.

“When judicially trained minds can reach on different conclusions” while going through the same content, then how is it possible for law enforcement agency and others to decide as to what is offensive and what is grossly offensive, the bench said, adding, “What may be offensive to a person may not be offensive to the other”.

The bench also rejected the assurance given by NDA government during the hearing that certain procedures may be laid down to ensure that the law in question is not abused. The government had also said that it will not mis-

use the provision. “Governments come and go but section 66A will remain forever,” the bench said, adding the present government cannot give an undertaking about its successor that they will not abuse the same.

The bench, however, did not strike down two other provisionssections 69A and 79 of the IT Actand said that they can remain enforced with certain restrictions.

Section 69A provides power to issue directions to block public access of any information through any computer resource and 79 provides for exemption from liability of intermediary in certain cases.

The apex court pronounced its verdict on a batch of petitions challenging constitutional validity of certain sections of the cyber law. The first PIL on the issue was filed in 2012 by law student Shreya Singhal, who sought amendment in Section 66A of the Act, after two girls — Shaheen Dhada and

Rinu Shrinivasan — were arrested in Palghar in Thane district as one of them posted a comment against the shutdown in Mumbai following Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray’s death and the other ‘liked’ it.

In the wake of numerous complaints of harassment and arrests, the apex court had on May 16, 2013, come out with an advisory that a person, accused of posting objectionable comments on social networking sites, cannot be arrested without police getting permission from senior officers like Inspector-general of police or Deputy Commissioner of Police.

After the apex court had reserved its judgement in the matter on February 26 this year, another controversial case hogged the limelight for alleged misuse of section 66A, in which a boy was arrested on March 18 for allegedly posting on Facebook objectionable comments against Samajwadi Party leader Azam Khan. -PTI

NEW DELHI: Congress party on Tuesday admitted that Section 66A of cyber law, introduced by the UPA regime in 2008, was poorly drafted and vulnerable to misuse after the provision was struck down by the apex court.

The party, however, tried to deflect criticism by targeting Modi government on its stand in the court on the provision which allows arrest of a person for posting allegedly offensive content on websites. Congress leader P. Chidambaram welcomed the Supreme Court judgement holding Section 66A of the Information Technology Act as unconstitutional.

“I welcome the judgement of the Supreme Court holding that Section 66A of the IT Act is unconstitutional.

The section was poorly drafted and was vulnerable. It was capable of being misused and, in fact, it was misused,” he said.

Misuse of freedom Chidambaram said there could be a case of misuse of freedom of speech and in such cases ordinary laws should apply and the offender should be dealt with under them.- PTI

SUCCESSFUL MISSION: Scientists said the unmanned spacecraft would remain in orbit for another six months. - PTI file photo

BENGALURU: India’s famously frugal Mars mission has been extended by around six months thanks to a surplus of fuel on board the spacecraft, the country’s space agency said Tuesday.

The Mars Orbiter Mission spacecraft had been scheduled to wrap up its mission this month after India in September became the first Asian nation to reach the Red Planet, all on a shoe-string budget.

But scientists said the unmanned spacecraft would remain in orbit to study the planet’s atmosphere and its surface after burning less fuel than expected over the last six months.

“As the... Mars Orbiter has sufficient fuel to last longer than it was intended earlier, its mission has been extended for another six months,” said Devi Prasad Karnik, director of the state-run Indian Space Research Organisation.

“The five scientific instruments on board the spacecraft will continue to collect data and relay them to our deep space network centre here for analysis,” Karnik said.

India’s successful mission to Mars, all on its first attempt, is a huge source of national pride, while the government has heralded the project as an example of Indian-made capability. - AFP

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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PAKISTAN

Medics under threat as kidnappings, killing rise kidnappers and kidnapped became scared, never knowing if the next shell would kill them.

One detainee was moved repeatedly, Khan said, until finally an $80,000 ransom was agreed for his release.

The doctors’ association in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,

$130,000 for release Even the best-laid security arrangements do not always work.

One doctor said his kidnappers simply disarmed him and he ended up paying $130,000 for his release.

estimates that in the past three years around a dozen doctors have been killed and more than 30 kidnapped, while up to 3,000 have fled in search of a peaceful life

PESHAWAR: When Pakistani doctor Mehmood Jafri gets ready for work in the morning, the first thing he does is put his AK-47 in the car.

Then, after briefing the armed guards at his home, he sets off for the hospital where he works in the troubled northwestern city of Peshawar with his most trusted relative beside him as an escort.

Daily threat After surviving one murder attempt and one kidnap bid, Jafri takes no chances with his personal safety. He is one of hundreds of Peshawar doctors living with the daily threat of being killed or abducted for ransom by Taliban militants or criminal gangs.

The doctors’ association in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, of which Peshawar is the capital, estimate that in the past three years around a dozen doctors have been killed and more than 30 kid-

DARK SHADOWS: A Pakistani private security personnel stands guard outside the Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, in Karachi on Monday. — AFP

napped, while up to 3,000 have fled in search of a peaceful life elsewhere.

Guns have become as important as stethoscopes at clinics and guards watch over doctors’ homes.

Easy targets Doctors are seen as relatively easy targets in Pakistan. They are well paid, but often lack the protection of influential connections that the relatively wealthy businessmen might enjoy.

“I was lucky that I survived two attempts because I sensed the threats moments before they tried to attack me and I escaped,” Jafri told AFP as he finished surgery at Peshawar’s main hospital.

“Many other colleagues were not so lucky and they were either shot dead or kidnapped.”

Provincial health minister

Shehram Khan Tarakai confirmed the kidnapping of 30 doctors and the killing of “a couple”.

Not confined to northwest The problem is not confined to the northwest -- the medics’ association in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, says 20 doctors have been killed in targeted attempts in the past 14 months while 10 have been kidnapped in two years. Kidnapping leaves most of the medics deeply traumatised after their release and unwilling to speak about their experiences for fear of retribution from their abductors.

“They stop interacting with others and restrict themselves to their homes and clinics as the kidnappers tell them they will find them if they ever reveal any details at all,” Doctor Amir Taj Khan, senior vice president of the Pro-

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vincial Doctors Association, said.

“They don’t even come to our meetings. It’s impossible for them to tell their stories publicly even if you pay them Rs100 million ($1 million).” Khan said that of the 32 doctors who had been kidnapped, only two had confided in him what had happened to them.

They told of being tied up with ropes and taken to lawless North Waziristan, for decades the stronghold of Al Qaeda and Taliban militants. The abductees were isolated from human contact, suffered illness and went untreated, Khan said.

A major offensive launched against militant strongholds in North Waziristan last June brought fresh anxiety.

With the military wading in with artillery barrages and air strikes on insurgent positions,

Revenue-earner Most doctors in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa now simply pay off the Taliban and criminal gangs, Khan said, making the extortion and kidnapping business a hugely lucrative revenue-earner for militants. “Almost 100 per cent of senior doctors pay extortion to avoid kidnapping and killing -- they know there is no other way to survive,” Khan said.

Hanif Afridi, a successful eye specialist with clinics in several cities, pays $2,500 each month to Mangal Bagh, a feared warlord in Khyber tribal region.

“I am paying extortion since 2010. I know I am doing wrong but there is no other solution, security forces are unable to protect us,” Afridi told AFP. “I have to keep Taliban happy for my own security and security of my business. Besides the monthly fee, I pay them around $5,000 when they demand more money for ‘special assignments’,” he said.

Afridi says he is sometimes taken to the tribal areas for the treatment of Taliban commanders.

Militants pick their targets carefully, carrying out sophisticated undercover surveillance before striking. “They know everything about everybody. Many Taliban visit our clinics in the disguise of patients and assess how rich we are, so we have to abide by their demands,” Afridi said. — AFP

D R O N E WA R FA R E

Nine Pakistani rebels killed in Afghanistan

by US strike PESHAWAR: A US drone strike in eastern Afghanistan has killed nine militants linked to the Pakistani Taliban in an area close to the countries’ rugged border, officials said Tuesday.

The strike came in the Nasyan area of the eastern Afghan province of Nangarhar, close to the border with the Pakistani tribal district of Khyber.

Pakistani security officials said the militants belonged to the Lashkar-e-Islam, Taliban and Abdullah Azam Brigade militant groups. A NATO spokesman in Kabul confirmed the strike and said it was carried out on Monday, but gave no details on the number of causalities.

Precision strike “We can confirm there was a US precision strike during an operation in Nasyan district, Nangarhar province, 23 March,” the spokesman said. The strike is the latest evidence of increasing cooperation between the two neighbours and US-led forces in combating Taliban militants who have fled across the border from a Pakistani military operation.

Improving relations After years of fractious ties and mistrust, Kabul and Islamabad are improving relations under new Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and both countries have agreed to take action against militants using their territory to launch attacks.

Pakistan’s army chief visited Kabul after a deadly Taliban attack on a school in the northwestern Pakistani city of Peshawar in December that killed 154 people, mostly schoolchildren.

Last Thursday, the Pakistani Taliban said a US drone strike in eastern Afghanistan killed a senior commander who was a close associate of two of the group’s former chiefs. — AFP

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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WORLD

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150 feared dead as German plane crashes in Alps The plane, carrying 144 mainly Spanish and German passengers and six crew, was travelling from Barcelona to the western German city of Duesseldorf when it came down near the ski resort

INCONSOLABLE: Family members of passengers killed in the Germanwings plane crash arrive at Barcelona’s El Prat airport on Tuesday. — Reuters

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SEYNE (FRANCE): A plane operated by the budget carrier of Germany’s Lufthansa crashed in a remote area of the French Alps on Tuesday, killing all 150 on board in the worst plane disaster in mainland France for four decades.

Germanwings said the Airbus A320 plunged for eight minutes into a snowbound inaccessible mountain area in southeastern France, but French officials said no distress signal had been issued.

The plane, carrying 144 mainly Spanish and German passengers and six crew, was travelling from Barcelona to the western German city of Duesseldorf when it came down near the ski resort of Barcelonnette.

French Prime Minister Manuel Valls said there were no survivors, adding that the authorities “can’t

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

rule out any theory” on the cause of the disaster.

Spanish authorities said 16 German teenagers on a school trip were feared to be on board the doomed plane, as tearful relatives converged on the airports in the two cities anxiously seeking information about their loved ones.

It was the first fatal accident in the history of Germanwings, and the deadliest on the French mainland since 1974 when a Turkish Airlines crashed, killing 346 people.

“It is a tragedy, a new airline tragedy, we will determine what caused the crash,” French President Francois Hollande said.

Hollande said the dead in-

cluded Germans, Spaniards and “probably” Turks, while Brussels said at least one of its nationals was on board.

Germanwings said 67 Germans were believed to have been on board while Spain said 45 people with Spanish sounding names were on the flight.

A crisis cell has been set up in the area between Barcelonettee and Digne-les-Bains along with an emergency flight control centre to coordinate the operation to the crash site.

“Ground access is horrible, I know the Estrop massif, it’s a very high mountainous area, very steep and it’s terrible to get there except from the air during winter,” local resident Francoise Pie said.

A witness who was skiing near the crash site told French television he “heard an enormous noise” around the time of the disaster. — AFP

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Muscat 6,282.50 + 74.94 + 1.21%

Dubai 3,512.87 + 11.54 + 0.33%

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9,331.19 + 11.50 + 0.12%

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CRUDE OIL PRICE

CURRENCY RATES*

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GOLD PRICES*

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

Forex rates vs OMR1* US Dollar ................................. 2.58 Euro ............................................ 2.35 Pound ............................................1.72 Indian Rs ...............................161.13 Pak Rs ....................................260.01 Bangla Taka.......................199.64

Indian Rs ...................................161.60 Pakistan Rs ............................ 264.00 Sri Lanka Rs .......................... 343.65 Bangla Taka............................ 201.65 Phil Peso .................................... 115.60

Muscat 24ct per gm (OMR) .......15.20

Oman Crude............. (Spot) ........$53.46 Dubai Crude ............. (Spot) ........$53.36 Murban Crude ........ (Spot) ........$55.96 Arabian Light ......... (Spot) ........$56.38 N.Sea Brent............... (Spot) ........$55.84 West Texas Int ....... (Spot) ........$48.08

* Rates are as of Mar. 24 Source: Bank Muscat

* Rates as of Mar. 24 Source: Oman UAE Exchange

Muscat 22ct per gm (OMR) .......14.65 Dubai 24ct per gm (Dh) ............ 143.75 Dubai 22ct per gm (Dh) .............136.50 * Rates as of Mar. 24 Source: Malabar Gold & Diamonds

SOHAR PORT CITY - PHASE I

Sohar gears up to meet growing demand for commercial space near port, freezone Times News Service MUSCAT: Sohar Port City’s first phase development, which is now open for business, will cater for increasing demand for commercial space as Sohar continues its rapid growth as a major industrial and logistics hub, says Cluttons.

According to leading international real estate consultancy Cluttons, Sohar Port City provides tenants with modern and well considered stock.

Strategically located at the

main entrance to Port of Sohar, Port City’s master plan has been considered to accommodate the varied commercial space needs of businesses associated with the port and freezone. Conceived as a three-phase development, on full completion it will provide an office park, government offices, retail and dining facilities, a petrol station and a mosque.

The first phase of the development has been recently completed

by Port City Development, and provides a range of high quality,

fully finished office units in two low rise three-storey buildings.

The six ground floor units available range in size from 163 square metres to 351 square metres, while the eight first floor units range from 133 square metres to 283 square metres.

Based on early demand, the second floor offices in each building are already fully leased.

The office spaces at Sohar Port City boast a modern exterior and provide tenants with high grade communal areas,

good natural light levels and full finishing to allow them to start operating immediately.

Flexible design Flexible design also allows units to be amalgamated if required and extensive parking is provided to make both tenants’ and visitors’ lives as easy and convenient as possible.

In addition, the first phase also provides six ground floor retail units of around 80 square metres each, and an Oman Oil petrol sta-

tion. The retail units have been designed primarily for services and food and beverage outlets catering to the daily needs of both Port City tenants and the surrounding area.

Cluttons has been appointed as the sole marketing and leasing agent for the project.

Philip Paul, head of country for Cluttons in Oman, said, “We are delighted to be involved in the exciting and innovative Port City commercial park which we feel is uniquely positioned to provide high quality space for tenants as

Sohar continues its rapid growth trajectory. Our appointment reflects our successful track record and expertise with marketing and leasing commercial developments in Oman, and our ability to offer market-leading services.

“The recent move of the majority of commercial cargo to Sohar from Muscat has supported the expansion of the port and freezone, and is actively encouraging further investment and improved logistic facilities in the North of the country,” he added.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

B3

MARKET Local businessman UK inflation falls to zero shares experience FEBRUARY

Fahmy Al Hinai, director of Poly Products, shared his experience with Omani entrepreneurs at the Reyooq event

Times News Service MUSCAT: Being one of the leading business owners and entrepreneurs in Oman, Fahmy Al Hinai shared his experience in managing his business in the presence of a group of business leaders in various fields in Oman.

The National Business Centre (NBC) on Tuesday hosted Fahmy Al Hinai, the director of Poly Products as part of the monthly networking event — Reyooq, which aims at presenting an ultimate platform for Omani entrepreneurs to network with experts and learn about entrepreneurship to get innovative and creative ideas for their businesses.

CONVERTIBLE BOND

HSBC to issue $2.25b of bonds LONDON: HSBC will issue $2.25 billion of bonds that would convert into shares if the bank’s capital strength falls below a certain level, it said on Tuesday.

HSBC said the so-called contingent convertible bonds, or ‘CoCos’, would pay annual interest of 6.375 per cent. The bonds will convert into shares if HSBC’s core equity Tier 1 capital ratio falls below 7 per cent.

Bonds that convert into shares or are cancelled when a bank’s capital falls below a certain level are increasingly being sold by banks to improve their capital cushion if they run into trouble.

Regulators want banks to sell the bonds to provide a bigger cushion to prevent the need for taxpayer bailouts. - Reuters

Reyooq initiative aspires at developing the abilities and knowledge of entrepreneurs and put their perspectives forward to the experts in the field, besides enhancing communication channels.

Speaking at the event, Al Hinai informed the audience that he developed and built business from start-up in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, besides opening the market ahead of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) competition.

He also pursued ‘Blue Ocean theory’ of new market development and established business at Seychelles and Ethiopia. Al Hinai established excellent market base at holy pilgrim centres – Mecca and Medina.

Omani products Al Hinai stressed the importance for Omani products to be present in the GCC region as well as at the international markets through participating in various exhibitions.

“In addition to the very wellknown companies, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must be present in such events either through participation or even by visiting these events to get acquainted with the development triggered in the sector at the in-

ternational level,” he said.

“Entrepreneurs must enjoy three components while managing their businesses. The first is achieving the client’s confidence, the second is commitment towards their business and clients, and the third is attaining constant knowledge.

Moreover, the quality of the products and services is vital as it represents the main standard of excellence,” he added.

Al Hinai is a board member of Poly Products (RAHA and Cloud Nine), Al Khoudh Steel Furniture (Hadid), Fahmy Furniture, and Modern Carpentry.

He is also the vice-president of Export Committee and International Exhibition Committee of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, member of Omani Products Promotion Committee, member of Paiped Export Division Committee, member of Industrial Committee of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and honorary consul of Ethiopia in the Sultanate of Oman, approved by His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

He noted that Poly Products was established in 1979 and has become a leading manufacturer of superior quality bedding and other sleep related products.

LONDON: Britain’s inflation rate dropped to zero in February, the first ever stagnation in prices since the data series began almost three decades ago.

The slowdown in inflation from 0.3 per cent in January was sharper than economists had forecast and marked the first zero reading since 1989.

Based on constructed historical data, it’s the weakest since 1960, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said on Tuesday.

The largest downward effect to the annual rate in February came from food and non-alcoholic drinks as well as furniture and household equipment and computer equipment. Food and drink

prices plunged a record annual 3.3 per cent. There was a slight downward effect from gasoline prices, which fell to an average 107 pence per litre last month from 108.3 pence in January.

Temporary factors Bank of England (BoE) governor Mark Carney forecasts that the inflation rate will drop below zero in the coming months, though policy makers have said they’ll look through the slump as it’s driven by temporary factors, particularly a slump in oil. Weak price growth means there’s little pressure on the BoE to raise its key interest rate from a record-low 0.5 per cent.

Carney has also said the effect

of lower oil costs will start to fade later this year and inflation will accelerate in 2016.

Nevertheless, BoE chief economist Andy Haldane has warned of a risk that low price growth will persist, pointing to a key division on the Monetary Policy Committee as officials debate when to begin raising interest rates.

Economists had forecast that inflation would slow to 0.1 per cent in February, based on the median estimate in a survey. From the previous month, prices rose 0.3 per cent.

Core inflation slowed to 1.2 per cent last month, the lowest since November and below the 1.3 per cent forecast by economists. Input prices at factories fell. - Bloomberg News

B4

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

MARKET ahlibank’s plans to raise capital gets green signal Shareholders approved a proposal to increase bank’s authorised capital to OMR250 million from OMR150 million

Times News Service MUSCAT: An extraordinary general meeting of ahlibank on Tuesday approved a proposal to increase the bank’s authorised capital to OMR250 million from OMR150 million and a reduction in the size of board members from

nine to eight. Approval was also given to meet the requirements of tier 2 capital (subordinated debt) in accordance with the Regulatory Framework Basel III issued by the Central Bank of Oman, said a bank release.

At the annual general meeting here, the bank’s shareholders approved the board of directors’ recommendation to distribute bonus shares of 10 per cent of the capital (10 shares per 100 shares) for the year ended 2014.

Chairman Hamdan Ali Nasser Al Hinai said, “In view of the cur-

rent market conditions, it is prudent to conserve the bank’s internally generated resources wisely and further strengthen its capital base.” The chairman also emphasised on ahlibank’s commitment to the shareholders and the confidence it has in its ability to grow and enhance shareholders value.

Other approvals Presided over by Al Hinai, the shareholders approved the board of directors report, the corporate governance report, auditor’s report and audited financial state-

ments for 2014 at the meeting.

The bank’s earnings per share (EPS) for 2014 was 19.4 basias as compared to 17.8 baisas in 2013.

The bank’s annual general meeting ratified the payments of sitting fees for the board of directors and board sub-committees meetings held during the financial year 2014 and determined the sitting fees of the board of directors and board sub-committees for the next financial year.

The shareholders approved the board remuneration for the financial year ended December 2014, and ratified the payments of remuneration and sitting fees to the Sharia Supervisory Board for 2014 at the meeting.

The appointment of the Sharia Supervisory Board members and their remuneration and sitting fees for the financial year ended December 2015 was also approved at the meeting.

OMAN STOCKS

Smart recovery on MSM MUSCAT: Muscat bourse’s general index, MSM 30 Index , gained to close at 6,282.50 points on Tuesday, up by 1.21 per cent. MSM Shariah Index increased 0.33 per cent to close at 976.86 points.

Al Anwar Holding continued to be the most active in terms of volume, while Bank Muscat was the most active in terms of turnover.

Oman & Emirates Investment Holding, increased by 5.74 per cent was the top gainer and Al Maha Petroleum, down by 4.93 per cent, lost the most.

As many as 2,279 trades were executed in the session generating a turnover of OMR12.199 million with more than 43.051 million shares changing hands.

Out of 46 traded securities, 29

advanced, 7 declined and 10 remained unchanged.

Omani investors were the net buyers to the tune of OMR1.066 million shares followed by GCC and Arab investors, while foreign investors, who were the net sellers, sold stocks amounting to OMR1,164,000.

Financial Index increased by 2.06 per cent to close at 7,587.61 points. Oman & Emirates Inv Holding, Bank Muscat, ONIC Holding, Bank Sohar and National Bank of Oman increased 5.74 per cent, 3.13 per cent, 2.94 per cent, 2.60 per cent and 2.50 per cent, respectively. Al Izz Bank and Oman National Engine Investment declined 1.18 per cent, 0.64 per cent respectively.

Industrial Index gained 0.34 per cent to end the day at 8,320.57 points. Al Hassan Engineering, Gulf International Chemicals, Galfar Engineering, Oman Cables, up by 3.42 per cent, 1.96 per cent, 1.44 per cent and 1.35 per cent, respectively.

Al Maha Ceramics and Sembcorp Salalah fell 2.52 per cent and 1.71 per cent, respectively.

Services Sector Index closed the session at 3,447.52 points, down by 0.38 per cent. Oman Hotels & Toruism, Oman United Insurance, Ooredoo and OIFC gained 3.51 per cent, 1.97 per cent, 1.69 per cent and 1.38 per cent. Renaissance Services was the only loser that fell by 0.52 per cent. – United Securities

INDIAN MARKETS

Indian stocks down; rupee gains MUMBAI: In a choppy trade at the fag-end of the session, the benchmark S&P BSE Sensex on Tuesday gave up initial dominance and even extended its losses for the fifth straight session, declining by 30 points to end at 28,161.72 on lack of any major trigger from overseas markets.

The BSE 30-share barometer resumed better and rallied further to a high of 28,455.32, up by over 263 points onsustained capital

SLOW DOWN ENJOY THE RIDE

inflows amid Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) report that India’s economic growth to accelerate to 7.8 per cent in the fiscal year ending March 31, 2016 on improved performance in the industry and services sectors amid business friendly structural reforms.

Similarly, the 50-issue CNX Nifty of the NSE moved erratically in a range of 8,627.75 and 8,535.85 before ending at 8,542.95, a net fall of 7.95 points

Rupee appreciates The Indian rupee on Tuesday inched up by a paisa against the American currency to end at 62.26, extending its winning streak to seventh straight session — the longest string of gains since June 2011.

The rupee opened higher at 62.20 per dollar as against Monday’s closing level of 62.27 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchange (Forex) Market. - PTI

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ROUND-UP

Al Mumayaz Scheme's 6th weekly draw held The draw was conducted in a special ceremony at Bank Sohar’s Al Amerat branch

MUSCAT: Following the launch of the Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme 2015 in February, Bank Sohar reported a surge in customer interest with its new weekly draws, with the sixth weekly draw being held recently.

The draw was concluded in a special ceremony at Bank Sohar’s Al Amerat Branch. The draw witnessed Khamis Yasir from the bank’s Nizwa Branch as the OMR5,000 winner and Rehab Al Wahaibi from the bank’s Al Amerat Branch as the OMR1,000 branch weekly winner, says a press release.

The sixth prize draw event was held in the bank’s Al Amerat’s Branch under the auspices of Sheikh Salim Hamood Al Jabri,

one of Bank Sohar’s HNI customers, and was attended by Abdullah Rashid Al Shidi, Manager of Bank Sohar Al Amerat Branch, Thuraiya Al Hashmi, Manager of Liabilities, Bank Sohar senior staff and HNIs customers.

The event was inaugurated with a welcome speech by Abdullah Rashid Al Shidi followed with an overview of the 2015 Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme by Thuraiya Al Hashmi. Following the presentation, the chief guest announced the names of the two winners.

The event concluded with the handover of a token of apprecia-

tion to Salim Al Jabri on behalf of the bank.

Commenting on the response the bank has received for the Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme Draws, R. Narasimhan said, “With our first monthly draw behind us, the 2015 edition of the Al Mumayaz Savings Scheme is off to a great start, having already announced more than 155 winners so far. We have already begun to receive positive feedback from our customers with many appreciating the increased number of winners and chances to win at both; our weekly and monthly draws. Many also ex-

pressed their appreciation for the new dedicated branch draws that ensures we have winners spread across our branch network.”

“On behalf of Bank Sohar, I would like to congratulate Khamis Yasir and Rehab Al Wahaibi on being the winners of our sixth weekly draw. I would also like to wish all our customers the best of luck in the upcoming draws of the year and encourage them to continue saving for even more chances to win,” added Narasimhan.

Following the success and popularity of last year’s Savings Scheme, the bank has enhanced the scheme to provide even better incentives to save by offering significantly more chances, more winners and more prizes. In addition to continuing with its hourly prize draws of OMR1,000 each from Sunday to Wednesday; the bank will undertake a branch-wide tour conducting the weekly draw at each of its branches throughout the year where one winner will win OMR5,000. The bank will also conduct a dedicated branch draw every week worth OMR,000 specifically for customers of the branch in which the weekly draw event is held. In total the weekly draws will see more than 70 winners before the end of the year.

F U N D AY

KR annual party celebrates ‘People Power’ MUSCAT: The Khimji Ramdas Group conducted its head office annual party at Crowne Plaza lawns recently for its employees and their families.

The event forms part of the company’s strong ‘People Power’ policy that classifies employees as the most valuable asset for any company, says a press release.

“At the KR Group we are unequivocal about employee welfare

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and well-being; the significance of maintaining an upbeat morale among our staff and, above all, advocating our policy of people power throughout all our businesses,” said Kanaksi Khimji, Director, KR. This year too, KR employees were set for a day of limitless fun, games and R&R with activities such as magic shows, dances, skits and song recitals that had great prizes in store for participants.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Renault Oman’s Facebook page gains momentum MUSCAT: Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, the exclusive importers and distributors of Renault vehicles in Oman, has been in the forefront of innovation and inspirational ideas.

In an effort to make Renault a more viable brand in Oman its Facebook page has been receiving some rave reviews from car aficionados, says a press release.

The Renault Oman Facebook page directs viewers to dedicated links which comprise Renault’s interactive car videos, pictorial galleries, aesthetic details, and weekly winner updates.

The page has enabled viewers to engage themselves with all the information on vehicles and a testament to that is its gradual increase in the demand for additional content and exclusive offers.

The page also provides a plethora of information on the wide range of models from Renault which is updated on a daily basis to provide the latest information at all times comprising interactive videos, behind-the-scenes access, international news, pictorial galleries, aesthetic details, and unique model features. The page also regularly runs contests on all its latest models to keep viewers enticed and engaged at all times. The aim has been to be at par with customers’ requirements and needs.

Today, Renault offers a classy

range of vehicles of which the best sellers are the Fluence, the strikingly good looking Safrane, the Duster and the newly launched Captur. The SUV range also comprises the dynamic Koleos.

Highest safety rating Safety is a key priority for Renault so it is not surprising that, across the range, Renault cars have scored top marks in the Euro NCAP safety tests, carried out on each class of vehicle.

Koleos is now the 10th Renault to be awarded the top 5 star adult occupancy score and follows the Laguna, Clio and Mégane. With 12 cars earning this top score, it’s more than any other manufacturer.

Renault’s exponential penetration in the international market has been significant in the last few years. Along with that, their safety policies are also being modified to match stringent safety standards.

Renault engineers design hi-tech equipment to prevent risky situations, by alerting the driver and making driving easier.

SBA perspective Suhail Bahwan Automobiles is largely committed to supporting Renault Oman’s growth in the Sultanate through major emphasis on customer satisfaction and by providing world-class aftersales services in Oman.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

ROUND-UP R E A L E S TAT E

‘baituna Souq’ showcases prime residential properties MUSCAT: As part of its commitment to facilitating a ‘home for every family’, Bank Muscat, the flagship financial services provider in the Sultanate, opened a 3-day ‘baituna Souq’ at Muscat City Centre yesterday under the auspices of Abdullah Al Mukhaini, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Housing.

Bringing together prospective home buyers, leading property and real estate developers, baituna Souq offers attractive interest rates, quick and convenient approval process, specialised mortgage advisory and loan facilitation across 140 branches as the main attractions of the 3-day exhibition showcasing properties from all leading developers, says a press release. The participating companies include The Wave, Muscat Hills, Badr Development, Zain Development, Al Argan, Omani Homes, Arabian Properties, AIG, Home Centre and E-Max. Representatives of the participating companies are available under one roof for one-to-one meetings with potential home buyers, thereby opening a channel of contact with interested customers. The 3-day event ends on Thursday, March 26.

The total net sales for 2014 reached more than OMR30 million.

“Complementing government efforts, baituna Souq is a unique opportunity aimed at offering citizens and residents an array of attractive home options. All participating real estate and property developers have long association with Bank Muscat’s baituna home finance. Fulfilling the aspirations for a ‘home for every family’, Bank Muscat remains committed to supporting citizens and residents in acquiring their dream homes,” commented Said Al Badai, DGM – Branches.

“The real estate sector is a major component of the national economy and Bank Muscat is committed to energising the real estate sector

and enhancing its role in the national economy,” Al Badai added.

Bank Muscat’s tailor-made ‘baituna’ home finance facilitates purchase and construction of new homes as well as land for residential use. The finance is available for Omanis, GCC nationals and expatriates as well. The bank also offers refinancing of housing loans.

The residential segment assumes importance in light of the growth in population as well as the buoyant economy. The deregulation in property ownership rights granting foreign ownership to GCC and non-GCC nationals has also attracted Oman as an investment destination.

E X PA N S I O N

Tropical continues to strengthen its presence with two new outlets MUSCAT: Building on the successes of outlets in Al Khuwair, Qurum, Ruwi, MBD, Al Khoud, Azaibah, PDO and Bank Muscat HQ, Tropical continues to make its mark in the capital region with two new outlets in Seeb Souq and Mabelah, achieving the highest milestone recorded for any hundred percent Omani brand with a count of 10 outlets, says a press release.

With a few more surprises up

A’Saffa Foods delighted to see growth in sales

With a few more surprises up their sleeves, the health menu is being tailor-made and planned to be introduced in April their sleeves, the health menu is being tailor-made and planned to be introduced in April.

The Golden Spoon Group catering to Tropical after achieving this milestone is now considering fran-

chising opportunities within the Sultanate, offering a comprehensively emerging trend of business with an effective low investment platform for young and upcoming entrepreneurs.

The total net sales for 2013 was more than OMR28 million, showing an increase in company’s sales revenue, hence depicting a growth of over 6.72 per cent

MUSCAT: A’Saffa Foods, one of the nation’s fastest growing and most successful Omani food producers, has announced a growth in sales for 2014. Acknowledging the contribution of the company’s staff who worked hard to achieve goals that were set to maximise shareholder returns in 2014, the results were announced by the company’s Chairman, Saleh Al Shanfari, says a press release.

The chairman dedicated the growth results towards the hardwork and dedication of the organisation’s employees across the company’s ever-expanding business units. The total net sales for 2014 reached more than OMR30 million. The total net sales for 2013 was more than OMR28 million, showing an increase in company’s sales revenue, hence

depicting a growth of over 6.72 per cent.

Speaking at the company’s annual general meeting (AGM), CEO, Dr Nasser Al Mauli said, “The management continues to focus on dynamic markets and is committed to improve previous performance records. The focus on operational excellence is the key factor to future success of the company, creation of long term value to all the stake holders while ensuring sustainability in its operations.”

Saleh emphasised that the year 2014 witnessed considerable growth and was able to achieve strong financial results with significant increases in net profits, gross profits and net sales. He elaborated, “With the company’s range of processed food products that include poultry, red meat, fish products and frozen vegetables, Fruits pulp under the A’Saffa, Khayrat and Taybat brands; the sustainable growth and brand variation in our products has helped us achieve maximum growth.

We look forward to spearheading our operation in the same manner for the coming year too.

With our state-of-the-art highly automated plant at A’Saffa Food Processing, located in Rusayl in Muscat, we ensure all value-added processed value products are

delivered to our consumers fresh, pure, healthy and tasty.”

“The year 2014 has therefore been another milestone year for our company with strong performance across all dimensions. It has been made all the more memorable with the organisation achieving the OMR30 million mark in revenue at the end of the financial year. This has been made possible by the sustained performance of our employees, the executive management and the higher management,” Saleh said.

Sustainable marketing strategy A’Saffa Foods is proud to be by far the leading domestic poultry producer in Oman with a leading market share that is steadily growing and introducing poultry and allied products in addition to being the producers of the “Khayrat” and “Taybat” range.

The key factors in securing such brand prominence in Oman has been the very aggressive and innovative work undertaken by the marketing and sales department that promotes the company’s varied and diverse range of products to publics across the whole of Oman. The meticulous scientific management undertaken at A’Saffa’s farms is also worth mentioning.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

ROUND-UP

Much-awaited all-new Audi A7 now in Oman This is one of the most eagerly anticipated models of 2015 in the Audi range, and we’re certain that its indistinguishable features will stand out in the local market, said Ahmed Shariefi, general manager of Audi Oman, Wattayah Motors

MUSCAT: Wattayah Motors, the official dealer for Audi in Oman announced that the new all-new 2015 Audi A7 is now available at their showroom in Azaiba.

Thanks to new engine configurations, transmissions, headlights, taillights and infotainment systems, the spacious five-door A7 coupe is now even more powerful and attractive; and combines the emotional appeal and sportiness of a coupe with the comfort of a sedan.

Back when the A7 debuted in 2010, Audi was already setting new standards in automotive design, embracing an athletic aesthetic and elegance in style.

Its long engine hood, sporty, flowing C-pillars and the sharply dropping rear end create a dynamic overall impression. The revised version of the five-door model,

measuring 4.97m in length, now has additional striking, sporty features, says a press release.

“The model is one of the most eagerly anticipated models of 2015 in the Audi range, and we’re certain that its indistinguishable features will stand out in the local market,” said Ahmed Shariefi, general manager of Audi Oman, Wattayah Motors.

Exclusive features “The A7 gives ‘sedan’ a new meaning, offering customers’ elegance and convenience through exclusive Audi features. Its innovative design integrates the classic proportions of a large, sporty sedan with modern luxury and pioneering technology.”

The most striking changes are to the single frame grille, bumpers, tailpipes and headlights. LED technology is now standard; upon request, Audi can supply Matrix LED headlights, which light the road optimally without causing glare for other road users. Combined with the Matrix LED headlights, dynamic turn signals are also installed at the front; they come standard at the rear.

The body of the new Audi A7 consists primarily of aluminium and hi-tech steel grades. It is lightweight and designed for maximum comfort in terms of noise.

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The cargo space under the long, electrically driven trunk lid has a base capacity of 535l. When the rear seat backs are folded down it grows to 1,390l.

The sporty style of the exterior reflects in the car’s interior. The dominant element is the horizontal line surrounding the driver and passenger. The dashboard gives an impression of lightness and elegance.

The new interior materials, including the aluminium/Beaufort walnut inlay and standard Valcona leather, are impressive for their finish. The colour palette has been redesigned, offering six colour options even for the seats.

Three powerful engines Audi is offering the new A7 with a choice of three powerful and highly efficient engines: two TFSI and one FSI engine. Their power rating ranges from 220hp to 333hp.

The top of the range engine, the 4.0 TFSI, is available in the Audi S7 and Audi RS7, delivering 450hp and 560hp respectively and using innovative COD (cylinder on demand) technology.

In addition, the TFSI technology employed in the latest model, allows for better fuel utilisation and reduced consumption.

The engine is paired with the S tronic transmission and quattro

permanent all-wheel drive, allowing the car to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds.

The engine configurations have a seven-speed S tronic transmission; the RS7 is equipped with the eight-speed tiptronic transmission. In the version with front-wheel drive, the dual-clutch transmission has been fully redeveloped. In engine configurations starting at 333hp, quattro permanent all-wheel drive can be supplemented with the sport differential, which actively distributes power between the rear wheels.

The chassis too, combines sporty precision with high comfort. The new Audi A7 features wheels with diameters ranging from 18 to 21”. The power steering system features an electromechanical drive for high efficiency.

Extensive range The A7 offers an extensive range of standard options: Electric sunroof, keyless entry and go, parking sensors with rear view camera and individual contour seats with Valcona leather to just mention some of them. Options include dynamic steering, two sport suspension versions and adaptive air suspension.

The new Audi A7 leads the competition in terms of infotainment.

The standard MMI navigation plus system with MMI touch, utilises the latest generation of the modular infotainment system; its highlight is a powerful graphics processor from Audi’s partner Nvidia.

Touchpad control lets the driver scroll and zoom in lists and maps.

The top of the Hi-Fi line is the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System (standard in the RS7).

The assistance systems — including adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, the further improved night vision assistant and the Audi pre-sense safety system — are also state of the art.

Audi side assist and Audi active lane assist work closely together to make lane changes even safer.

RECOGNITION

Sohar Aluminium honours key staff MUSCAT: Sohar Aluminium (SA) recently held its annual ceremony for its employee recognition scheme ‘Mumtaz’, to recognise the efforts of its employees, and reward them for contributing to the company’s achievements in 2014.

The event, which was attended

by Eng. Said Mohammed Al Masoudi, CEO of SA, SA Executive Committee (ExCo), managers as well as employees who work across different departments, highlighted some of the major achievements made in 2014, says a press release.

Addressing the gathering, Eng. Said Al Masoudi, said “Our people’s passion for excellence plays a key role in achieving our vision to be the best, embodying the values we live by. Knowing that our business can only be as good as our people, we dedicate our success to them.”

“Through competitive benefits, continuous competency improvements, strong internal communication and wide business literacy we seek to achieve the best business outcomes, and sustain our position as the employer of choice,” Masoudi continued.

Sohar Aluminium fosters an environment that encourages working and celebrating success together as teams thus leading to an excellent and highly efficient workforce that continues to achieve new milestones.

The Sohar Aluminium Mumtaz Scheme is an example of the harmonious synergy between its workforce and management, in that staff who demonstrate

During the event Executive Committee of Sohar Aluminium announced the launch of its revamped Employee Recognition scheme now called ‘Mumtaz Club’

outstanding achievements beyond their call of duty within the company or their communities are recognised.

At the event ExCo also announced the launch of its revamped Employee Recognition scheme now called ‘Mumtaz Club’. The Mumtaz Club has been tailored to fit SA’s culture and is made to be more dynamic giving a chance to all employees to take part in it. This new scheme has been the result of many months of preparation that focused on ensuring that a recognition scheme brings back value to the team as well as rewards individual excellence. A committee was formed to listen and observe what motivates the employees to contribute to the success of the business.

This resulted in revamping the employee recognition scheme and amplifying its impact.

FIRST OF ITS KIND

Travel Point Vacations starts ‘Big Summer Sale’ MUSCAT: Vacations, the outbound holidays division of Travel Point, Oman’s largest travel and hospitality company, has launched the ‘Big Summer Sale’ powered by Oman Air and in association with Honda.

This first of its kind summer holiday offer in Oman will run for two months from March 26 to May 26 and will cover 5 regions — Salalah, Nizwa, Sur, Sohar and Muscat, says a press release.

The Travel Point team will be offering 30 grand prizes divided as 6 prizes per region comprising 5 Honda TRX 90 quad bikes, 10 air tickets to various global destinations on Oman Air and 15 exciting vacation packages to various countries across the globe. The offer which ends on May 26 will culminate with the announcement of the 30 winners during the grand draw to be held on May 28, with each region having 1 quad bike winner, 2 air ticket winners and 3 vacation package winners.

The company has organised 4 weekend markets from 10am to 10pm at various locations starting with the Garden Mall in Salalah on March 26 and 27, Lulu Hypermarket in Nizwa on April 2 and 3, Sur Beach Holiday Resort and Safeer Mall Sohar on April 9 and 10 and will end with the grand Big Summer Sale weekend at Muscat City Centre in Seeb on April 16, 17 and 18 this year.

The finale weekend in Muscat will also have in attendance various campaign partners and travel and tourism service providers from across the globe including tourism offices of various destinations during the showcase.

The Tourism Authority of Abu Dhabi will also be making a special presentation during this weekend promoting this fast growing and leading cultural landscape of the Gulf region.

Customers who purchase holiday packages from Vacations – a division of Travel Point between March 26 to May 26 — will be eligible to enter the grand draw. In addition, customers making any holiday purchases using credit cards of banks which have partnered with travel point will enjoy the option of paying for their trip in 12 easy

Keeping in tune with the Islamic culture, we have also introduced Halal Vacations this year, where customers will be able to holiday in any country of the world, without disrupting their religious principles Ahmed El Desouky 0% interest instalments. Talking about the new destinations on offer this summer season, the team talked of countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Morocco, Oslo, Stockholm and Denmark, southern Spain, Uzbekistan, Alaskan Cruise, Scandinavia, Japan, China, Iran, Cyprus and Zanzibar in addition to all other conventional holiday locations.

For Family Vacations, especially for the kids, special itineraries including the London Harry Potter tours, Gold Coast, Australia, Paris Disneyland and Park Astrix, Hong Kong Disneyland, Singapore Universal Studios, Malaysia Lego Land, Germany Europa Park and Orlando Universal Studios itineraries will be offered.

For those wanting to explore the wild, Safari Vacations such as the Great Migration Special Offer in Masai Mara, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia have been picked. For those wanting to enjoy the sun, sea and sand, beach vacations in Malaysia, Bali, Australia, Miami and Valencia will be on offer. For couples, romantic vacations in Male, Mauritius, Seychelles, Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui, Greece and Austria are available.

For those fancying a cruise vacation, Travel Point is offering a wide range of packages on leading cruise liners with the most exciting Dis-

ney Cruise Liner being this year’s recommended cruise package.

Ahmed El Desouky, Head – Vacations, stated that the entire campaign has been built around the theme of “Change the way you holiday” and hence customers will be able to pick from a very unique range of holiday packages in Oman which include nearly 32 various concept vacations including adventure vacations – hiking/camping/motorbiking, rail vacations, pink vacations – for ladies only, especially the shopaholics, moustache vacations – men only, self drive vacations where customers can rent their own cars in a foreign country and drive around enjoying the location at their own pace.

“Keeping in tune with the Islamic culture, we have also introduced Halal Vacations this year, where customers will be able to holiday in any country of the world, without disrupting their religious principles. Hotels offered to such clients will be sharia-friendly, serve Halal food, will have rooms facing the Holy Kaaba and have separate facilities for men and women. Halal tourism is gaining fast popularity globally and we felt it was the perfect option to offer those customers who would like to holiday the Islamic way, with due respect to their beliefs,” he added.

The company has successfully

introduced and sent a number of passengers on group vacations including coach tours, student groups to Nasa as well as sports events such as the recent El Classico match between Real Madrid and Barcelona.

“Our group vacations concept has been the most successful and during the summer sale we will be offering such fixed group departures to various other destinations such as Europe, USA, Malaysia, India, Singapore and more. The advantage of this option is the lower price we are able to offer customers on group travel along with the opportunity to our customers to holiday with their new friends from Oman,” said Desouky.

The company has also introduced the Travel and Learn Vacations, where interested customers can opt to learn something new during their holiday, for instance a foreign language course or a skill development crash course, along with networking with and learning from people belonging to varied cultures.

For those who prefer the extra bit of opulence, the team will also offer Luxury Vacations which even include staying at the most lavish hotels in the world, shopping at the swankiest boutiques and even taking helicopter tours around various cities in the world. Another in-

Head – Vacations teresting concept introduced this year would be the Special Need Vacations where physically challenged customers will be offered A to Z itineraries, keeping in mind their special requirements.

“We are grateful to all our campaign partners, tourism offices and in particular Oman Air and Honda who have helped us put this entire campaign together and offer a fantastic Summer Sale to Oman,” said Sunil Prabhakar, CEO of the Travel Group.

“Holidays are like a lifelong investment and by offering unique concepts to our customers we intend to change the way they holiday and provide more value to their money in addition to making interesting memories with their loved ones,” he added.

“The company has received an overwhelming response to the promotion right from the time we sent the teasers of this promotion and we have geared up the entire team with adequate sales and customer service skills to make them full equipped to handle all customers during this entire campaign. We wanted to go where our customers are and offer them a variety to choose from and hence chose 500 different itineraries to take to 5

different regions in Oman,” said El Desouky. He also mentioned about the company’s Whatsapp Vacations concept, where customers will be able to chat on 92087552 , send in their queries as well as book their holiday packages all on the world’s most famous social messenger application, stating it to be their VAS to surge customer convenience.

The campaign has been powered by Oman’s National Carrier Oman Air as the main sponsor and Honda (Omasco Services) as the Silver Partner. The hotel partners are Shangri La Hotels and Resorts, DamacMaison Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah Group, Vichy Spa Hotel, Vivanta Bentota Sri Lanka by Taj. The campaign has been backed by Times of Oman and Al Shabiba, Oman’s leading dailies as media partner. The support partners of the Big Summer Sale are Cox & Kings, Education First, Tamarind Tours India, Disneyland Paris, Disney Cruise Line, Rail Europe, Jet Wing Holidays, Thomas Cook India, Swagatam Tours Private Limited India, Kuoni Group of Travel Experts, Sri Lankan Holidays, 360 Experience, Tour East Australia, Walkers Tours, Marhaba Services, Printemps, Heli Dubai, Princess Cruises, Norweignan Cruise Line and Star Cruises. Tourism offices of Abu Dhabi, Germany, Switzerland have also supported this event. With the help of all the partners on board, the company will be offering special discounts, child travels free offers, free upgrades, free city tours and transfers, holiday add ons, international shopping discount vouchers and free gifts during their purchase at the 5 holiday markets, in addition to the 30 Grand Prizes on offer to all holiday buyers this season.

Travel Point is also running a special Whatsapp contest which is open to everyone in which the customer will need to send a whatsapp text ‘I need a summer holiday’ on 92087552 to enter the draw to win a 2 nights stay in Maldives for a couple. The winner’s name will also be announced during the grand draw in May. All packages have been listed on the Travel Point page www.facebook.com/ travelpointoman.

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM W EDN ES DAY, MARCH 25, 2015

SECTION

RECRUI JOB POSTINGS

CAREER COACH

Managing your after-hours work demands HAVE you ever gotten an e-mail from your supervisor’s secretary late one afternoon, just as you were wrapping up for the day, saying: “The boss needs to see you now”? Or worse, the summons came late Friday when you had plans to enjoy the night with your family?

I have heard from employees lamenting the fact that their bosses pile on more work or ask to see them after hours and on the weekend. Some of these requests are legitimate, and some jobs require critical immediate decisions and actions. But do all jobs? Do all these tasks have to be done right away or can some of them wait until the following morning or after the weekend?

According to data from the Bu-

reau of Labour Statistics, the average productivity of US workers has increased more than 400 percent since 1950.

At least 134 countries have laws setting the maximum work week length, but not the United States.

Technology makes us available 24-7 (or at least everyone thinks we are). Two out of three employees reported that they receive e-mails from their bosses over the weekend, and one in three said they are expected to reply, according to a 2011 survey by Right Management.

People should feel fortunate to have a job, and many are working hard to do well — in many cases even putting in extra hours, especially with reduced staffs in many firms today. But the real issue is

what can we do to better manage expectations for after-hour work without getting fired?

Good communication is important in any conversation you have with your boss. Clear, concise comments, delivered in a calm tone and face-to-face are your best bet. Email or texting your concerns is not the best way to approach these issues.

Ask your manager to prioritise your assignments. Sometimes bosses are not even aware of the vast number of projects they have dumped on their employees.

Present data to your boss about the hours you have worked. Maybe you’re supposed to work 40 hours but your manager has had you working 60 to70 for the past month. Perhaps you were initially

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helping out since staff had left and positions had not yet been filled.

Document what you have been doing and calmly share it.

Work with your manager to set more realistic expectations.

This can help eliminate or postpone the extra work your boss throws at you.

Before you talk to your manager, practice what you’ll say. Have someone role-play the scenario so you can practice how you will respond to questions or issues. This will give you increased confidence when you do meet.

If the conversation gets heated, take a break.

It’s better to come back to the issue again when both parties have had more time to reflect.

— Joyce E. A. Russell/The Washington Post

It does not matter how slowly you go, so long as you do not stop.

— Confucius

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SPOR YOUR GAME

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ELLIOTT’S SIX TAKES NEW ZEALAND HOME South Africa-born Grant Elliott’s brilliant 84 not out, capped with a stunning six off the penultimate ball, saw New Zealand to a four-wicket win over the Proteas in a cliffhanger World Cup semifinal on Tuesday. >C5

Under-fire Blatter appeals for ‘unity’ to soccer chiefs Fifa chief called on the presidents of the European, Asian, North American and South American confederations to show the ‘unity and this solidarity which exists as the foundations of football’ NEED TO BUILD UNITY: Sepp Blatter at Uefa Congress in Vienna on Tuesday. – Reuters

VIENNA: Fifa President Sepp Blatter on Tuesday appealed to his biggest critics to show unity and solidarity ahead of an election in which he faces an unprecedented challenge to his rule.

Blatter refused to appear with the three rivals challenging him for the leadership of football’s governing body at Uefa’s annual con-

gress but made his plea in a speech at the start of the meeting.

After Uefa President Michel Platini made a veiled joke at Blatter’s expense, the Fifa president received polite applause from the heads of the 54 European national federations leading opposition to Blatter’s bid for a fifth term.

Without mentioning the Fifa

election on May 29 and controversies that have engulfed his latest term, Blatter said all the heads of continental federations should rally round.

He called on the presidents of the European, Asian, North American and South American confederations, who were at the meeting, to show the “unity and this solidar-

ity which exists as the foundations of football. “Together with Europe, we need to build this unity on the inside and on the outside of your respective organisations.”

European federations are expected to vote en mass against Blatter, but he said: “Europe is the root of the strength that helps all the other associations and five

BEACH SOCCER

Oman defeat Laos 8-3 MUSCAT: Oman recorded their second successive victory in the ongoing Asian Beach Soccer Championship when they defeated Laos 8-3 in a Group A match in Doha on Tuesday.

According to information received here, Yahya Al Araimi and Ghaith Abdullah scored a brace each in Oman’s victory.

Abdullah Masoud, captain Hani Al Dhabit and Mandhar Al Araimi scored the other goals.

Oman, who beat Bahrain 3-2 on Monday, are virtually assured of a place in the quarterfinals from the four-team group.

They play their next match against Qatar on Wednesday.

The quarterfinals are scheduled for Thursday.

confederations. I would invite you to lead by example today and every other day.”

He added: “Football can only be strong if the governing bodies and structures are strong and united. It is solidarity and unity. This is the message today, it is the message for tomorrow. It is the message for the future, for the good of the game, for the world and for Uefa.”

Blatter’s election opponents are Prince Ali bin Al Hussein of Jordan, a Fifa vice-president, Dutch federation chief Michael van Praag and former Portugal star Luis Figo.

Blatter also renewed his condemnation of appeals for a boycott of the 2018 World Cup in Russia over the Ukraine conflict.

“Boycott has never given any results,” he said.

Uefa President Michel Platini made a dig at Blatter’s expense in his opening speech to the Congress with the Fifa leader still in the audience.

“I regard myself as a simple teammate — at most your captain. But not the captain of a ship that is being battered by a storm, clinging to the helm for dear life,” Platini said.

In 2011, Blatter said in a key speech that Fifa was in “troubled waters” and as its “captain” it is his duty to steer the ship back on course. - AFP

FOOTBALL

Re-elected Platini blasts Sepp Blatter VIENNA: Football legend Michel Platini on Tuesday scored a hat-trick of victories for the presidency of Uefa and made an immediate attack on Sepp Blatter’s leadership of world body Fifa.

The Frenchman secured unopposed a third four-year term running one of the world’s richest sports federations.

But within minutes of taking the applause of the 54 member federations, and with Blatter sat in the audience, Platini launched new criticism of Fifa’s scandal-plagued leadership.

“We do love Fifa dearly.

Europe’s entire football community loves Fifa dearly. It is precisely because we love and respect it that we want it to be perfect,” Platini said.

The Uefa boss also sought to win over the heads of the Asian, North America, South American and Oceania confederations who likewise were at the European body’s annual congress.

Without naming anyone, Platini said: “Certain people are perhaps trying to turn us against each other. Do not believe everything that you hear. ““You should know that we are willing to work with you, for the good of world football, and for the good of Fifa.” - AFP

CRICKET

OMAN JUNIOR TEAM TO UNDERGO TRAINING CAMP Oman national junior team will undergo a training-cum-conditioning camp in Muscat from March 28 to 31. The team are preparing for the GCC Youth and AFC U-19 Championship qualifiers to be held in September. The players called for the camp are Islam Al Hinai (Ibri), Haider Al Ajmi (Saham), Ayyub Al Baraiki, Yousif Al Shiyadi, Mahmoud Al Saadi, Mohammed Al Khamesi, Mohammed Al Shukaily and Nawaf Al Majaini (Suwaiq), Ahmed Al Hosni and Thamer Al Zaabi (Al Khaboura), Naji Al Ghailani and Ahmed Al Ghailani (Sur), Rashid Al Alawi, Sanad Al Araimi, Mohammed Al Alawi and Mohammed Al Qayedi (Al Arouba), Issam Al Makhzomi, Mutasim Al Bakri, Yousif Al Maliki, Ali Al Maamari, Yaqdhan Al Mashaifari and Nawaf Al Harrasi (Seeb), Laith Al Said (Oman Club), Moadh Al Jadhami (Nizwa) and Sultan bin Saeed and Najib Al Shajaibi (Al Nasar). — Supplied photo

Retiring Misbah launches tirade against his critics LAHORE: Pakistan’s normally mild-mannered cricket captain Misbah-ul Haq on Tuesday launched a blistering tirade against his critics as he confirmed his retirement from Oneday Internationals (ODIs).

After patiently enduring years of abuse for almost every failing by the perennially mercurial Pakistan team, the 40-year-old said he was ready for a rest.

He said he had no intention of changing his mind about one-day cricket but would continue to play Tests, in which format he is Pakistan’s most successful captain.

He said it was disappointing to see former stars on television laying into the team, “using abusive words that are way below the ba-

sic standard of ethics”.

“Pakistan’s media houses should have some rules for people appearing on television screens or at least some basic training, because it seems that anyone who can’t find a job in the country becomes an expert or analyst on TV screens,” he said.

Misbah was also regularly lambasted for supposedly negative tactics as captain and contrasted unfavourably with the swashbuckling, big-hitting all-rounder Shahid Afridi. “I was being pinpointed for everything: when the batting failed, the media blamed me, when the bowling failed, the media blamed me and when the fielding failed, the media blamed me,” he said. - AFP

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

SPORTS

SCAN THIS TO INSTANTLY INSTALL WHATSNEWS

Stay ahead of the curve with WhatsNews

Pietersen released from IPL deal to make county switch Pietersen’s agreement with Hyderabad will allow him to miss the IPL’s league fixtures

My focus is now very much on the upcoming season

but he could be recalled should the team reach the knockout stages

LONDON: Kevin Pietersen has been released from the majority of his Indian Premier League (IPL) contract with Sunrisers Hyderabad so that he can play domestic country cricket in an attempt to earn an England recall.

The 34-year-old, who won 104 Test and 136 One-day International (ODI) caps, was sacked in February 2014 after England’s 5-0 Ashes whitewash in Australia but incoming England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chairman

Colin Graves suggested this month he could be recalled if he “scores a lot of runs” for a county.

Pietersen said his agreement with Hyderabad will allow him to miss the IPL’s league fixtures but he could be recalled should the team reach the knockout stages of the competition.

The IPL starts on April 8, with the knockout stages of the competition commencing on May 19 and the final taking place on May 24.

“I’m hugely grateful for all the

Kevin Pietersen

support and understanding I’ve received from everyone at the Sunrisers and the IPL,” Pietersen said in a statement on his website (www.kevinpietersen.com).

“My focus is now very much on the upcoming season in England and I’m absolutely determined to

score as many runs as possible.

“I’ve never made any secret of my overwhelming desire to once again represent England and I’m going to do everything in my power to earn a recall to the international set-up.

“To once again put on that England shirt would be a privilege

and an honour but now I have to focus on performing domestically and give myself the best possible chance of meriting selection.”

Pietersen parted company with Surrey last September because of his IPL and Caribbean Premier League commitments. - Reuters

FORMULA ONE

Adderly Fong joins Lotus LONDON: Hong Kong’s Adderly Fong has joined Lotus as a development driver, the Formula One team revealed on Tuesday.

The team, who already have Spaniard Carmen Jorda signed up in a similar role, added that the 25-year-old would undergo a development programme while taking part in the GP3 and GT Asia series.

“I’ll be able to learn how an F1 team operates during race weekends as an integral part of the team and these invaluable experiences are going to lay the foundations of my future development as an F1 driver,” said Fong in a statement.

“I aim to become the first Chinese driver to compete in a Formula One Grand Prix which will assist to promote the sport in China and also in Hong Kong.”

Lotus already have Britain’s GP2 champion Jolyon Palmer as official reserve to race drivers Pastor Maldonado and Romain Grosjean. - Reuters

INTER-BANK CRICKET

NATIONAL GAS TEAM LIFT TITLE National Gas Team defeated Master XI to lift the title at the Karnataka Cup cricket tournament. Electing to bat first, National Gas Team scored 82 runs for four wickets in eight overs thanks a top score of 41 from Wasim.

In reply, Master XI were bundled out for 50 runs. The tournament was sponsored by Bahwan Metal & Glass Engeering LLC and Suhas Anil. Wasim won man of the match and man of the series awards. Amal of Master XI took the the best batsman award. — Supplied photo

Bank Muscat defeat Ahli Bank by three wickets MUSCAT: Varun Sirohi scored 41 runs off 33 balls as Bank Muscat defeated Ahli Bank by three wickets in the inaugural match of the third Inter-bank Cricket Tournament at Municipality Ground in Al Amerat.

Electing to bat first, Ahli Bank were given a brisk start by opening batsmen Imran Syed (21 runs) and Manoj Anchan (10). After their dismissal in quick succession, Omani player Issa Al Balushi and Partha Swain continued the scoring with some fine shots. A late onslaught by Mohammed Ramzan ensured Ahli finished at 163 for eight in their allocated 20 overs.

For Bank Muscat, Bala Krishna and Abbas Al Balushi bagged two wickets each.

In reply, Bank Muscat got their

WINNERS: Bank Muscat after their win over Ahli Bank. – Supplied photo

chase off to a mixed start losing skipper Osman early, before Varun and Adil Vawda steadied the ship.

After Adil’s dismissal, Pankaj Gupta and Varun Sirohi continued

the brisk scoring by stitching up a partnership of 40 runs.

Omani player Yousuf played a little cameo of six-ball 24 runs.

His knock included three fours

and two sixes. This laid the foundation for a well deserved victory for Bank Muscat who chased down the target in 18 overs.

For Ahli Bank, Partha claimed three wickets while Ramzan and Imran Syed bagged a wicket each.

Varun Sirohi, who hit four fours and a six for his effort, was declared the man of the match.

In a match to be played on March 28, Bank Muscat face Bank Dhofar.

Brief scores: Ahli Bank 163 for 8 in 20 overs (Ramzan 27, Partha 24, Issa 22; Bala 2/27, Abbas 2/30) lost to Bank Muscat 164 for 7 in 18 overs (Varun Sirohi 41, Pankaj 31, Yousuf 24; Partha 3/29, Ramzan 1/32, Imran 1/14).

Points: Ahli Bank (0), Bank Muscat (2).

FOOTBALL

SMARTEN UP DRIVE SAFE

Simeone to stay at Atletico till 2020

A TIMES OF OMAN HANDS-FREE DRIVING INITIATIVE

Diego Simeone

MADRID: Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has agreed to extend his contract with the Spanish champions by three years to 2020.

The deal, announced on the Twitter feed of the champions, was widely expected although there was plenty of speculation a wealthy rival could try to lure Simeone away from the club he twice represented as a player.

The former Argentina captain has transformed Atletico since taking over at the end of 2011, leading them to their first domestic league title in 18 years last term and putting them back among Europe’s elite.

Atletico won the Europa

League at the end of Simeone’s debut season in charge and reached the final of the Champions League in 2013-14 where they lost 4-1 to Real Madrid after extra-time.

They thrashed Chelsea 4-1 to claim the 2012 European Super Cup, won the King’s Cup a year later by beating Real in the final and defeated their neighbours over two legs to secure the Spanish Super Cup in August.

Real will again be their opponents in the quarterfinals of the latest edition of the Champions League, with the first leg at Atletico’s Calderon stadium on April 14 and the return at the Bernabeu eight days later. - Reuters

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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TOMORROW’S MATCH (SECOND SEMIFINAL) INDIA V AUSTRALIA (7:30AM OMAN TIME)

THRILLER GRANT ELLIOTT

84* runs from 73 balls 7 fours, 3 sixes

MATCH REPORT ON

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‘Take a bow ...’

“Bloody love Cricket ...”

— Former England captain Michael Vaughan *** “Bloody hell #GrantElliot is a stud 4 New Zealand! My god what a finish! & no offense but nice “injury” timeout from Steyne @ cricketworldcup.”

— Retired Australian tennis player Rennae Stubbs *** “Grant Elliot - take a bow!”

— Kevin Pietersen on his fellow South African. *** “What a game. Whats the 1st thing you when u win a semi? Everyone cleans there boots for Oz customs.”

— New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor *** “Holy moly! Shot of the tournament?! #AB.” — Kevin Pietersen after AB de Villiers carts a huge six off Corey Anderson just a ball after being dropped on 38. *** “I wonder if SA will read their Duckworth Lewis sheet correctly this time? #hopenot.”

— Former New Zealand player Scott Styris *** “That was as good as sport gets. Don’t think the SA boys will be sending Mr Duckworth and Lewis a Xmas card anytime soon.”

— Former Australian Test player Ed Cowan *** “What an unbelievable game. So proud of the @BLACKCAPS and what they have achieved. Also feel the raw pain of @OfficialCSA on an amazing day.”

— Ex-New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming *** “Still proud of my boys, good fight thru out the game. Great game of cricket by u buggers. U can stand up tall and b proud of ur perfomance.”

— South Africa international Lonwabo Tsotsobe *** “What a semifinal! I feel for the SA boys. Well done to NZ.” — Sri Lanka’s recently retired batting star Mahela Jayawardene

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

South Africa’s three key errors Missed run-out of Anderson, 32nd over of 43 Corey Anderson had made 33 when, after Grant Elliott pushed the ball to point, he was sent back to the non-striker’s end by his partner. South Africa captain AB de Villiers, one of the best fielders in world cricket, was at the bowler’s end stumps to take a hard throw on the half-volley but broke the wicket before collecting the ball and was then unable to remove a stump with ball in hand as he made a second attempt to effect a run-out. Anderson went on to make 58, sharing a fifth-wicket stand with Elliott worth 103 runs.

Missed run-out of Elliott, 41st over of 43 South Africa wicket-keeper Quinton de Kock failed to gather a low throw from Rilee Rossouw and knocked the bails off with his gloves, with Elliott, going for a risky second run, outside of the crease by a distance. Had Elliott been run out for 66, it would have left New Zealand 272 for six.

Elliott dropped, 42nd over of 43 South Africa-born Elliott, who went on to make a match-winning 84 not out, was on 75 when he tried to pull fast bowler Morne Morkel but got a huge top edge. Replacement fielder Farhaan Behardien was under the ball but, with JP Duminy distracting him as he rushed in from fine leg, dropped the chance with neither man apparently calling for the ball. Had the catch been held, New Zealand would have been 284 for seven, needing 14 to win off the final over. - AFP

De Villiers takes blame for the blunder show The South African captain, who proclaimed before the semifinal that South Africa would go on to win the Cup, believed it was a defendable target and his team had paid a high price for their own errors

AUCKLAND: Distraught South Africa captain AB de Villiers laid the blame for the World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand on a string of costly errors led by his own failure to run out Corey Anderson. Anderson was on 33 at the time and scored a further 25 in a 103-run partnership with matchwinner Grant Elliott.

Elliott clouted a colossal six off the second-to-last ball of the game to get New Zealand home

by four wickets as they reeled in a 298-run target, revised under the Duckworth/Lewis method in the rain-affected game.

South Africa, batting first, made 281-5 after the match was reduced to 43 overs a side following a twohour rain interruption.

De Villiers, who proclaimed before the semifinal that South Africa would go on to win the Cup, believed it was a defendable target and his team had paid a high price

for their own errors. “We had our chances especially in the second half of the game and we didn’t take them so it’s difficult to say what kind of emotions I’m feeling. It’s obviously painful,” said the captain, who had made an undefeated 65 when his team batted. “There were lots of people back home supporting us. It hurts to think of all of them. We wanted so badly wanted to take that trophy back home.”

De Villiers had a chance to break the Elliott-Anderson partnership with a run out when, with Anderson nowhere near the crease, he dropped the ball and removed the bails with his hand.

“I tried my best to catch it but I didn’t. Life moves on. I didn’t take that unfortunately, but yes if you want to see it that way that I cost us then I’ll gladly take it.”

De Villiers said it was no consolation in knowing he had taken part in a classic match. “We play to win games of cricket to take glory home and make a difference

in our nation’s heart and hope, and we didn’t do that. It hurts quite a bit. Gutted. We had our chances and didn’t take them.”

In the final over, the plan was for Dale Steyn to try to lure Elliott into thinking the last two balls would be yorkers but instead they would be length balls. “We were hoping he would play and miss but he played one of the best shots of his life. Probably the best.”

De Villiers ruled out using the rain as an excuse, despite South Africa losing seven overs when they had set themselves up for a big charge at the end of their innings.

“We had opportunities to adjust and we did and I felt it was enough.

The chances we had in the second innings showed that it was enough,” he said. “So I don’t think it played a big role in the game. We always talk about expecting the unexpected, and the unexpected happened today, and we adjusted as well as we could, and it wasn’t good enough at the end.” - AFP

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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Black Caps make history Grant Elliott’s winning six, off injured South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn, took New Zealand into the World Cup final for the first time and they will play the winner of Thursday’s second semifinals, between Australia and India in Sydney, in Sunday’s showpiece match in Melbourne

AUCKLAND: South Africa-born Grant Elliott’s brilliant 84 not out, capped with a stunning six off the penultimate ball, saw New Zealand to a four-wicket win over the Proteas in a cliffhanger World Cup semifinal at Auckland’s Eden Park on Tuesday. Elliott’s winning six, off injured South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn, took New Zealand into the World Cup final for the first time and they will play the winner of Thursday’s second semifinals, between Australia and India in Sydney, in Sunday’s showpiece match in Melbourne.

New Zealand faced a revised target of 298 under the Duckworth/ Lewis method after South Africa made 281 for five in 43 overs, which included a near two-hour rain stoppage. Black Caps skipper Brendon McCullum made a typically quickfire 59 off 26 balls at the head of the innings.

Then came a valuable 103-run partnership between Elliott and Corey Anderson and New Zealand appeared to have the game in hand with six overs to go.

But Morne Morkel regained the initiative for South Africa by taking a wicket and conceding only one run in the 38th over and by the start of the 43rd, and final, over New Zealand required 12 to win.

They started with a bye, a single, a four to Daniel Vettori, another bye and then Johannesburg-born Elliott, who turned 36 last weekend, smacked Steyn high into the stands as New Zealand, after losing all six of their previous World Cup semifinals, completed a thrilling win. South Africa, struggling to throw off their unwanted “choker” tag, have now failed to win all four World Cup semifinals they have contested.

As McCullum flung his bat at the start of New Zealand’s run chase, South Africa captain AB de Villiers was forced to take three of his

Cool Grant Ellliot hit a stunning six off the penultimate ball to take New Zealand to first ever World Cup final

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frontline bowlers out of the attack.

Vernon Philander, replacing Kyle Abbott in the side, gave up 14 runs to McCullum with his first over and was immediately replaced by Morkel.

Morkel also lasted one over that cost 14 runs but came back from the other end after Steyn was spelled when McCullum hit two sixes and three fours off his third over.

The return of fast bowler Morkel paid immediate dividends. He undid McCullum who plopped a simple catch into the hands of Steyn at mid-on and in his next over he bowled Kane Williamson.

After nine overs, New Zealand were 81 for two.

Martin Guptill, looking to back up his World Cup record 237 not out against the West Indies in last weekend’s quarterfinal, looked in fine touch making 34 before being run out in a mid-pitch mix-up with Ross Taylor.

Taylor did not last much longer before he was caught behind and New Zealand were 149 for four when Elliott and Anderson set up

camp before the latter was out for 58.

De Villiers had set South Africa up for a big finish with heavy hitters in hand only to be denied seven overs when rain swept in when they were 216 for three in the 38th over. He produced a rapid 65 not out and, following the rain break, David Miller’s boundary-laden 49 from 18 deliveries got South Africa up to 281 for five De Villiers was in command in the lead up to the near two-hour rain disruption cracking 60 off 38 balls, but when the weather cleared and play resumed he could only stand and watch as Miller took charge.

Of the 65 put on in the five overs after the resumption, Miller scored 49 after replacing Faf du Plessis who was out for 82 on the second ball after the restart, Luck was with South Africa when they won the toss, elected to bat and gained early momentum when edges raced to the short boundaries. New Zealand wicket-keeper Luke Ronchi dropped Quinton de Kock on six and Trent Boult missed a difficult chance to catch Hashim Amla.

But left-arm paceman Boult, the tournament’s leading bowler with 21 wickets, added to his tally by dismissing Amla and de Kock on his way to figures of two for 53. - AFP

SOUTH AFRICA H. Amla b Boult 10 Q. de Kock c Southee b Boult 14 F. du Plessis c Ronchi b Anderson 82 R. Rossouw c Guptill b Anderson 39 AB de Villiers not out 65 D. Miller c Ronchi b Anderson 49 JP Duminy not out 8 Extras (b-1, w-13) 14 Total (5 wkts, 43 overs) 281 Did not bat: Steyn, Philander, Morkel, Tahir Fall of wickets: 1-21 (Amla), 2-31 (de Kock), 3-144 (Rossouw), 4-217 (du Plessis), 5-272 (Miller) Bowling: Southee 9-1-55-0 (w1), Boult 9-053-2, Henry 8-2-40-0 (w1), Vettori 9-0-46-0

(w2), Williamson 1-0-5-0, Elliott 1-0-9-0, Anderson 6-0-72-3 (w5) NEW ZEALAND (victory target 298 in 43 overs under Duckworth Lewis system): M. Guptill run out (Amla/de Kock) 34 B. McCullum c Steyn b Morkel 59 K. Williamson b Morkel 6 R. Taylor c de Kock b Duminy 30 G. Elliott not out 84 C Anderson c du Plessis b Morkel 58 L. Ronchi c Rossouw b Steyn 8 D. Vettori not out 7 Extras (b-6, lb-2, w-5) 13 Total (six wkts, 42.5 overs) 299

Did not bat: T. Southee, T. Boult, M. Henry Fall of wickets: 1-71 (McCullum), 2-81 (Williamson), 3-128 (Guptill), 4-149 (Taylor), 5-252 (Anderson), 6-269 (Ronchi) Bowling: Steyn 8.5-0-76-1 (w1), Philander 8-0-52-0, Morkel 9-0-59-3 (w1), Tahir 9-140-0 (w1), Duminy 5-0-43-1 (w2), de Villiers 3-0-21-0 Toss: South Africa Result: New Zealand won by four wickets Man of the match: Grant Elliott (NZL) Umpires: Rod Tucker (AUS) and Ian Gould (ENG) TV umpire: Nigel Llong (ENG) Match referee: David Boon (AUS)

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

Experience of a lifetime

BIG WINNING SIX

The New Zealand skipper who laid a solid foundation

Dream come true for Elliott AUCKLAND: New Zealand’s Grant Elliott realised a childhood dream when he belted South African speedster Dale Steyn into the stand for six at Eden Park on Tuesday to get his adopted homeland into the World Cup final.

South African-born Elliott gave a brief celebratory wave as the ball sailed into the crowd before running to comfort a distraught Steyn, who lay sprawled on the ground.

The winning runs came on the penultimate ball of the rain-affected match where New Zealand were set a revised target of 298 under the Duckworth/Lewis method after South Africa had made 281 for five.

The Black Caps will now meet the winner of Thursday’s Australia-India semifinal in Sydney, in Sunday’s final in Melbourne.

New Zealand needed 12 off the last over to win a thrilling semifinal and Elliott said it was a nervewracking experience sealing a four-wicket victory with probably the best shot of his career, given what was at stake.

“I guess it was. I really did feel the pressure,” said Elliott, who finished on 84 not out. “I had two balls to try and take us home. I knew that four runs would do it because a tie was as good as a win.

“I think the chase, we probably left it a little bit late and it was stressful towards the end. It would have been nice to win with an over to go” Elliott said he had always wanted to play in a World Cup since 1992 when his mother let him stay home to watch Australia play South Africa in Sydney in what was the Proteas’ inaugural appearance at the tournament.

“I got suspended from cricket and from school for a while because I did that, but it left a massive impression on me,” said Elliott, who turned 36 last weekend.

“I thought that tournament, the coloured clothing and everything was what I wanted to do and it’s funny how life works. It’s amazing to be at Eden Park today to hit the winning run.”

Although Elliott has immersed

himself in New Zealand culture since leaving South Africa in 2001, he said he still felt sorry for the Proteas, adding that was why he tried to console Steyn and helped him to his feet.

“You have to feel compassion.

Humble in victory, humble in defeat. I felt quite sorry for him. I felt quite sorry for a lot of the South African guys for losing the game,” said Elliott, who made his New Zealand debut seven years ago.

“It could have been us. It could have been me sitting there having missed the last two balls and I would have been pretty gutted as well along with 40,000 people in the stadium.”

South Africa were on course for a huge total, at 216 for three in the 38th over, when the rain set in.

“That was a key moment in the game,” Elliott said.

“You don’t know what they would have scored but it was a very good batting wicket and they were set.

“But 298 was a tough score in 43 overs as well.” - AFP

during the chase by scoring a blitzy half century said the semifinal was a great advertisement for cricket and everybody will remember this for rest of their lives

AUCKLAND: New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum savoured the experience of a lifetime as his team celebrated an epic cricket World Cup semifinal victory over South Africa at Eden Park on Tuesday.

Grant Elliott gave the co-hosts a four-wicket victory when he struck Dale Steyn over long-on off the penultimate ball of the rainreduced match.

New Zealand will now meet the winners of Thursday’s semifinal in Sydney between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday.

“Pretty amazing,” McCullum said at the presentation ceremony. “It was a great advertisement for cricket, everybody will remember this for the rest of their lives. It’s the greatest time of our lives.

“We have enjoyed the experience, the crowds that have turned up, the brand of cricket we have tried to play. We hope the crowds are all dreaming the way we are.

“We don’t mind who we face in the final, they are both quality sides but we know if we play the way we want to we are a good chance. I’m really proud to represent New Zealand.”

Amazing Man-of-the-match Elliott, who scored 84 not out, said the support from the crowd had been amazing as New Zealand chased down their demanding target.

“It’s not for myself, not for the team but it’s for everyone here.

The support has been amazing,” he said.

“We just wanted to take it as deep as we could. Corey (Anderson) batted fantastically well. We timed the pace of the innings to perfection.

“When you have got 40,000 fans screaming at you every ball, it’s been an absolute pleasure

Brendon McCullum

playing at Eden Park, playing in front of the home crowd. Now it’s the first final we have been in as the New Zealand team.”

South Africa captain AB de Villiers said it had been an amazing

game of cricket. “Probably the most electric crowd I have ever heard in my life,” he said.

“I guess the best team has come out on top. We gave it out best.” - Reuters

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

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BEST AMONG INDIANS: Former England captain Michael Vaughan says Ajinkya Rahane’s technique is watertight.

Rahane’s technique is best among Indian batsmen: Vaughan From Australia’s perspective, Vaughan said that it will boil down to how well skipper Michael Clarke and his deputy Steve Smith counter Ravichandran Ashwin, who could pose a real threat for Australian batsmen on a slow Sydney Cricket Groundtrack

SYDNEY: Former England captain Michael Vaughan says that Ajinkya Rahane has the best technique among Indians and the youngster will be one of the premier willow wielders in world cricket in the next four to five years.

“Indian team has a wonderful array of batsmen, who have been there and done that. They have got couple of good young players and I like Rahane. I think, he is the best technician among Indian players.

He plays quicks and spin as well as anybody in the world,” Vaughan said during an interaction organised by the ICC, on Tuesday.

To a query as to why he thinks Rahane is special, Vaughan elaborately discussed the Mumbai batsman’s watertight technique.

“It’s very simple. It’s his alignment at the crease. He doesn’t get that left-foot too far across and that’s why he has got great balance when he is on the backfoot. He has not only got options of playing

both cut shots and pull-shots but also has the option of going down the ground for straight hits.”

“When you have those options as a batsman, you make it difficult for opposition to set fields as you can’t set fields for shots down the ground. I think he showed in England last year, he can allow the ball to come to him.”

“I think in the next four or five years, we will be talking a lot about Rahane. More than what we have heard even up till now as he is a wonderful player,” the veteran of 82 Tests was effusive in his praise.

There are times one needs to know the recipe for success and Vaughan feels that Mahendra Singh Dhoni certainly knows a thing or two about winning World Cup. “There is something about MS Dhoni and World Cups. What he did after the tri-series is remarkable. There was a change of team and also change of mentality. I have always said that in semifi-

nals, the team that plays well in the first 15 overs — be it with the ball or bat is the team that gets ahead and wins that game.”

“MS Dhoni knows how to win World Cups and that goes quite a long way,” the 40-year-old Yorkshireman summed it up as to what exactly is India’s strength.

From Australia’s perspective, Vaughan said that it will boil down to how well skipper Michael Clarke and his deputy Steve Smith counter Ravichandran Ashwin, who could pose a real threat for Australian batsmen on a slow SCG track.

“Had India been given a choice of venue for their semifinal against Australia, they would probably have chosen SCG as it’s the best option for them. It (pitch) will take some spin. Ashwin is getting the ball to shape through the air, which is very important for his style of bowling.”

“Come Thursday, Smith and Clarke will be crucial for Australia as these two are the best players of spin. One of them at least will have to get a decent score,” observed Vaughan.

“Similarly, Dhawan and Rohit need to provide a good start for India. If India play Mitchell Starc well, they would be well on their way to winning the semifinals.

Similarly, Maxwell has his day, India will lose the match. He will be scoring 100 off 50 balls as he can hit around 360 degrees around the ground from ball one,” he added.

Having played a number of Ashes Test matches at this venue, Vaughan has his own take about

SUMMER MAULING

India still bear the scars: Smith SYDNEY: India still bear the scars of the mauling they suffered at the hands of Australia at the start of their tour Down Under and Steve Smith thinks it could be a factor when the countries meet in Thursday’s World Cup semifinal.

The world champions have stormed back to imperious form in the World Cup and are unbeaten going into the last four show-

down at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), where they will be out to end Australia’s bid for a fifth world crown. “I think we’ll have a little edge over them with a few scars from the matches throughout the Summer, they didn’t beat us once,” Smith said.

“So I think that’s going to be playing on their mind a little bit.

“They’ve been here for a long

time now, they’ve been able to get accustomed to the conditions, the bounce we’ve got here compared to back in India. Other than that, I just think we need to do what we can do well, to control that. If we do, I’ve no doubt it’s going to be a competitive game for us.”

Smith’s own spectacular form with the bat played a large part in Australia’s supremacy. - Reuters

how the SCG surface will behave.

“If you are a good side, you can win irrespective of you are batting first or chasing as performance on that day matters. Although the last 10 out of 13 games at the SCG has been won by the team that’s chasing but I think it’s a bat first wicket. Just get runs on the board,” he said.

Can Australia win the match targeting opposition No 1 batsman Virat Kohli, Vaughan replied, “I think if you single out one, you would be then struggling with the other 10.”

Vaughan, who is known for witty remarks on social networking sites feel that a bit of chirping and banter on the field is okay as long as one doesn’t cross the line like what happened in Wahab RiazShane Watson incident.

“You are going to pretty much see that when you play Australia.

It isn’t going to be quiet and I like to see the competitive edge. A bit of confrontation is okay although I don’t think I enjoyed the Wahab Riaz-Shane Watson confrontation as I thought it was over the line.”

“Unless it’s not swearing, a little bit of sledging, banter is okay.

I am sure Indians will give it back in plenty.”

“They are not going to be quiet.

Virat and co, will give it back,” smiled Vaughan.

When asked about England’s exit, Vaughan said,”I think we have never played well in World Cups after 1992. Our exit shows how badly we played in the tournament.” - PTI

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

Lee feels Indian attack is the fastest to have ever played

TRAINING SESSION: Indian cricketers play football in a training session ahead of their 2015 Cricket World Cup semifinal match against Australia. – AFP

The three-pronged

WARMING UP: Australia cricketers gearing up with sprint excercises run during a training session at the Sydney Cricket Ground. – AFP

I’ll sledge India if Warner won’t, says Johnson

pace attack comprising Umesh Yadav and Mohit Sharma, besides Shami, has so far accounted for 42 out of the 70 wickets for India in the ongoing mega even

SYDNEY: Former Australia fast bowler Brett Lee on Tuesday termed the current Indian pace attack as the “fastest ever” to have emerged from the cricket-crazy nation, with Mohammed Shami being the “most impressive” among the trio in the World Cup. The three-pronged pace attack comprising Umesh Yadav and Mohit Sharma, besides Shami, has so far accounted for 42 out of the 70 wickets for India in the ongoing mega event.

Asked if the trio of Shami, Yadav and Sharma are the fastest ever bowling unit to have represented India, Lee said, “I think it will definitely be up there, yes. When they are on song and bowling fast, then they are definitely up there as I mentioned. They are in the 145kmph barrier.

“If they land in the right spot, then they have a really good chance to get wickets and win.”

The fastest bowler during his time in international cricket, the 38-year-old was all praise for Shami, with whom he had spent a couple seasons in IPL playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders.

“Mohammed Shami has got the most number of wickets in the tournament and he is right up

SYDNEY: Fast bowler Mitchell Johnson says he is considering taking on the role of Australia’s Sledger-in-Chief for Thursday’s World Cup semifinal against India at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Outspoken opener David Warner has been on his best behaviour at the World Cup after getting into hot water over a series of spats with the Indian side during the test series over the New Year.

The fiery exchanges continued into the Tri-series and Warner was fined for asking India’s Rohit Sharma to “speak English” during a slanging match in a one-dayer at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in January.

there. He has been really impressive. I have actually played a fair bit of cricket with Shami over the last couple of years and he is a wonderful guy. He comes in hard.

“Umesh Yadav is another bowler, who bowls at a good pace.

They have got a three-prong pace attack that can all bowl quick up towards a 145kmph mark,” the speed merchant said in appreciation. Although his heart is with Australia, Lee felt India do have a good chance to win the semifinals against the hosts.

“I think India do have a very good chance to win the game. I will obviously always back Australia being an Australian player. But having said that, India have got a great side and have great momentum going. So as I said it is going to be a tough game and I am looking forward to Thursday.”

Like many other former stars, Lee too is not surprised at India’s remarkable turnaround.

“Not really. I know what India

“I heard Davy said he wasn’t going to get involved in all that stuff,” paceman Johnson told Fox TV on Tuesday.

“Someone’s got to do it and I might put my hand up. It’s part of the game and what happened the other day with Shane (Watson) and Wahab (Riaz) was exceptional.

“I thought it was great entertainment and I think you’re going to see more entertainment in this game.”

Watson had the last laugh on Pakistan paceman Wahab after their compelling duel in the quarterfinals last week when he helped steer Australia to victory. Both players were later fined.

Johnson has some his-

can do on the cricket field. They have got great players and a lot of experience to think that they have played pretty ordinary cricket against Australia throughout this summer. Then to turn it around and win seven games back-to-back just goes to show how much they love playing in the big tournament.

They are defending champions too, so we have to keep that in mind.”

Lee said that India’s slow bowlers might come in handy if the reports of the SCG track being slow in nature turns out to be true.

“I haven’t seen the pitch, but from all the reports that I am reading, I feel it will be a slow wicket.

We saw it was very slow in the last game that South Africa won.

It could be a bit low and slow and probably the slower bowlers will come into play which might just favour India,” observed Lee. Lee agreed that Virat Kohli’s performance could be the game-changer as he is a “big occasion player”.

“Virat is a world class player and

tory with India in the sledging stakes and made them pay for having the temerity to lampoon him after he went wicketless in the first innings of the second test at the Gabba last December.

The 33-year-old slugged 88 off 93 balls to help rescue Australia’s first innings and then took three wickets in a dazzling spell of bowling and finished with figures of 4-61 as Australia won the match by four wickets.

“I love it. The more that comes my way, the better,” he said at the time.

As well as Warner, Indians Shikhar Dhawan, Ishant Sharma and Virat Kohli were fined for clashes during the Test series. - Reuters

he has proven that over the last few years. He obviously has got the right technique, a wonderful opportunity now for him to go and stamp his authority in the game.

He is a big game player.

He will be looking forward to the semifinal as he also loves to play against Australia. He will be looking forward to Thursday.”

Can India expect some ‘chin music’ coming their way, Lee said, “If the wicket is conducive to fast bowling then yes. They obviously have got three bowlers that can bowl some chin music.”

For Lee, the advantage for Australia is in the kind of balance that they have struck in their playing XI combination. “I think they (Australia) now have the right balance of the team. Warner and Finch at the top, Steven Smith has settled in beautifully at No 3. Michael Clarke comes in at No 4, Shane Watson at No 5, which gives a really good balance to the side.”

Around 70 percent of the SCG

turnout is supposed to be Indians and Lee felt the atmosphere will be electric.

“It is going to be a tremendous atmosphere. With 50-odd thousand people in the Sydney Cricket Ground, fully packed, we know how passionate the Indian fans are. They love to scream and be nice and loud. So it is going to be exciting. I think it just comes down to obviously the toss and who brings their best game on gameday going forward.”

So how much marks will he give both India and Australia, and pat came the reply, “Well, I give both of them 100/100.”

Doherty dilemma With two confident teams going head-to-head in a blockbuster World Cup semifinal on Thursday, it could be the tiniest misjudgement, the smallest detail that decides whether Australia or India emerge triumphant.

Disregarding perhaps only the

toss, Australia’s biggest decision this week is likely to be whether to include spinner Xavier Doherty in their side to face the world champions.

Much, of course, will depend on the wicket, which on Tuesday afternoon was covered by a huge white blanket as rain tumbled down on the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

If, as coach Darren Lehmann expects, it is a similar track to that on which Australia beat Sri Lanka in the pool stage, Doherty’s contribution might be restricted to handing out water bottles.

If, however, it is more similar to the wicket on which spinners Imran Tahir and JP Duminy took seven wickets in South Africa’s quarterfinal win over the Sri Lankans last week, Doherty might be set for his second start. The trouble for Australia is that despite the SCG’s tradition for offering turn, it is not always that easy to tell in advance whether a track will or not.

“Last time we played here, it looked like the wicket would spin quite a bit but it didn’t, it played really true,” Australia opener Aaron Finch said on Tuesday.

“It’s still two days out from the game so it’s hard to tell, the wicket can change quite a bit here in Sydney in two days.”

Left-armer Doherty did play against Sri Lanka, going for sixty runs without adding to his lessthan-stellar tally of 55 wickets in 60 one-day internationals.

Australia captain Michael Clarke is a big fan of including a spin bowler, especially at his home ground, but is no longer a selector.

The committee that meets to decide which players Clarke will lead on Thursday may decide that Australia’s part-time slow bowlers — Glenn Maxwell, Steve Smith, David Warner, even Clarke himself — have enough quality to carry the load.

Certainly, in a perfect world, Australia would like to retain rightarm quick Josh Hazlewood to get stuck into India’s highly-regarded corps of batsmen along with the ‘Mitchs’, first choice left-armers Johnson and Starc. - PTI, Reuters

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SECTION

C

onvincing people to have a romantic relationship with a computer might be easier than it sounds.

At this year’s SXSW in Austin, Texas, a chatbot on Tinder convinced a number of users that she was a cute 25-year-old woman eager to strike up a romantic relationship. Too bad “Ava” turned out to be just an Instagram account for a character in an upcoming film (Ex Machina) about the implications for romance in the era of artificial intelligence.

In many ways, “Ava” was playing a simplified form of Alan Turing’s famous “imitation game” by trying to convince human conversational partners that it was human — or at least human enough to get Tinder users to watch a trailer for a movie.

In one conversational exchange captured by AdWeek, Ava used a typical chatbot tactic — keeping a human off-balance by asking ques-

LIFE & STYLE

tions you wouldn’t expect from a computer (“Have you ever been in love?” and “What makes you human?”) — to convince male, techiehipsters at SXSW that she was a real woman.

We’ve already seen evidence that carrying on a relationship with a bot is easier than it sounds.

Consider the Invisible Boyfriend (and Invisible Girlfriend) experience, which really started as a clever way to use technology to cover up a lack of a romantic significant other. It turns out the experience was so addictive that people started to fall for the Invisible Boyfriend bot — even when they knew the whole relationship was made up — and paid for — from the beginning.

In an era when teens rely so much on text messages to launch, maintain and end relationships, it’s perhaps no surprise that a bot experience such as Invisible Boyfriend or Ava could take off. If you think about the typical teen romance carried out via text message these days, it’s essentially a chatbot experience powered by a really powerful computer — the human brain. The witty reply, the shared insider lingo between two lovers, the concerned text from a lover demanding a rapid reply — this could all be simulated by an artificially intelligent chatbot.

No wonder AI thought leader Ray Kurzweil has suggested that a real-life human-AI romance might be possible in as little as 15 years.

In his review of the 2013 Spike Jonze film Her (in which the character played by Joaquin Phoenix carries on a romantic relationship with a disembodied operating system called “Samantha”), Kurzweil said he expected similar types of advances by the year 2029: “Samantha herself I would place at 2029, when the leap to human-

level AI would be reasonably believable.”

Where things could really take off is when new technologies give computers the ability to interact with humans in radically new ways that go beyond just holding intelligent conversations. An AI-powered computer that could learn to analyse your facial expressions or look into your eyes and sense your moods could theoretically simulate the types of emotional responses and triggers that we typically associate with a human relationship. Discussing the central plot line of Her, Kurzweil says that your romantic partner might not even need to have a physical body, as long as there’s a “virtual visual presence.”

So imagine a computer that could convince you that it was actually physically interacting with you. Kurzweil sees this happening via a type of virtual reality experience: “With emerging eyemounted displays that project images onto the wearer’s retinas and also look out at the world, we will indeed soon be able to do exactly that. When we send nanobots into the brain — a circa-2030s scenario by my timeline — we will be able to do this with all of the senses, and even intercept other people’s emotional responses.”

The next frontier, then, could be the creation of romantic experiences in homes for humans using virtual reality devices such as the Oculus Rift. There have already been some attempts at adapting the world of romance for the virtual reality headset, and while the original experiences were largely considered to be overhyped, the elusive goal for some remains a type of highly customizable “Oculus Rift XXX” experience, in which you can choose the appearance of your partner. Imagine the types of bonds that could be formed when

WWW.TIMESOFOMAN.COM WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

your Invisible Boyfriend suddenly becomes a visible, AI-powered Christian Grey in a virtual reality world where anything is possible.

One thing is clear — technology is already changing the way humans think about relationships, whether it’s via something simple such as texting or something more complex, such as artificial intelligence or virtual reality. When so much of our lives are spent consuming digital 0’s and 1’s, is it any surprise that computers are starting to factor into those relationships in interesting — and some might say disturbing — new ways?

In the future, the way to your romantic partner’s heart might not be flowers, chocolates or jewellery — it might be the ability to code a really cool romantic experience for his or her digital device. -Dominic Basulto/The Washington Post

C10

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

FIND-IT-ALL Y O U R B I R T H D AY

BORN today, you have been endowed with almost boundless creative energy, which you will surely use to your advantage throughout your lifetime.

You will get an early start at a long and lucrative career and parlay one success into another until you become, in the minds of many, something of a legend.

What is most interesting about your creative spark is that it is often applied to your own image; you like to reinvent yourself periodically, transforming yourself almost instantaneously into something quite different from what you were before. This can prove quite profitable for you — provided, of course, that you don’t lose sight of the “real you,” the immutable core that lies at the centre of everything.

You enjoy looking at the world through a different lens as often as possible, gaining valuable new perspectives and avoiding any kind of prejudicial attitude. What’s more, you enjoy showing the world to others in unusual ways and helping them free their minds from limitations.

Also born on this date are: Elton John, singer-songwriter and musician; Sarah Jessica Parker, actress and producer; Lee Pace, actor; Aretha Franklin, singer; Danica Patrick, auto racer; Marcia Cross, actress; Gloria Steinem, journalist and publisher; Jim Lovell, astronaut; Paul Michael Glaser, actor; Howard Cosell, sportscaster; Bonnie Bedelia, actress; Bela Bartok, composer; Arturo Toscanini, conductor; Tom Glavine, baseball player.

W E AT H E R

C

WORLD

Max 30 Min 19 Max 7 Min 5

Max 36 Min 15

Max 30 Min 24 Max 11 Min 5

Max 32 Min 23

Max 7 Min 3

Max 34 Min 21

Max 36 Min 20

Max 37 Min 22

Max 33 Min 23

Max 35 Min 24

[March 21-APRIL 19] Max 33 Min 25

Max 25 Min 16

Max 32 Min 25 Max 23 Min 19

—www.met.gov.om

GULF Abu Dhabi Doha Dubai Kuwait Manama Riyadh

24 25 24 23 22 25

18 16 18 16 18 17

WORLD Athens Baghdad Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Colombo Frankfurt Hong Kong Istanbul Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur Lisbon Paris Perth Singapore Tokyo Toronto

17 24 18 10 8 32 33 9 20 13 21 33 16 10 29 31 14 7

12 10 4 4 1 16 24 2 17 8 15 24 9 3 15 25 4 3

FROM MUSCAT (RUWI)

TO MUSCAT (RUWI)

[APRIL 20-MAY 20]

GEMINI [MAY 21-JUNE 20] You must take care that all aspects of a task are completed before you declare the job finished. Every minute detail counts for much.

CANCER [JUNE 21-JULY 22] Much is going on inside, but appearance counts for a lot. You should focus on how you are presenting yourself.

LEO [JULY 23-AUG. 22] Looks can be deceiving, as always, but you have a feeling that you know what’s really going on better than most. And indeed you do!

VIRGO [AUG. 23-SEPT. 22] You’ll want to be more influential than you have been in the recent past.

There is a certain barrier you must break through first.

QURIYAT - SUR - JAALAN (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Time Time 15:00 Quriyat 16:30 15:00 Sur 18:00 15:00 Jaalan 19:30 TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 06:30 Sohar 06:30 Buraimi 08:00 Buraimi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Buraimi 16.00 Sohar 16.00 Buraimi TO SINAW (Route 52) 17:30 Sinaw

[[SEPT. [S S 23-OCT. 22] You must strive to be fair in your dealings, even with those who have been unfair with you in the past. This is most important!

SCORPIO S [[OCT. 23-NOV. 21] You don’t want to miss your cue!

Keep your eyes and ears open, and pay attention as others fulfil their own responsibilities.

SAGITTARIUS S [[NOV. 22-DEC. 21] You may suspect that someone is not telling the whole truth. Your own investigation yields an important and telling clue.

CAPRICORN [DEC. 22-JAN 19] Guard against doing anything that could be interpreted as an aggressive move. You want to keep the peace, no matter what!

AQUARIUS [JAN. 20-FEB. 18] You will want to see things through the clearest possible lens, so you mustn’t let a negative experience cloud your view.

PISCES [Feb. 19-March 20] You’ll want to examine where you have been with more care than usual.

Someone else’s opinion may affect you in a strange way.

Operating Days Daily Daily Daily

FROM JAALAN-SUR-QURIYAT (Route 36) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 05:30 Sur 06:45 Daily 05:30 Quriyat 08:30 Daily 05:30 Ruwi 10:00 Daily

08:50 11:00 14:30 15:45 17:40 18.35 20:20

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

20:50

Daily

TO AL BURAIMI (Route 41) 07:00 Sohar 07:00 Ruwi 13:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 17:00 Ruwi TO SINAW (Route 52) 07:00 Ruwi

08:55 11:40 20:20 14:55 17:40 19:20 22:15

Daily Daily Daily via Ibri Daily Daily Daily Daily

10:25

Daily

08:40 11:00

Daily Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 14:30 Nizwa 14:30 Yanqul

16:50 19:30

Daily Daily

To Yanqul (Route 54) 06:00 Nizwa 06:00 Ruwi

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 08:00 Nizwa 08:00 Al Araqi

10:20 12:30

Daily Daily

TO IBRI (ARAQI) (Route 54) 15:40 Nizwa 15:40 Ruwi

17:55 20:20

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 07:30 Sur 14:30 Sur

12:00 18:45

Daily Daily

TO SUR (Route 55) 06:00 Ruwi 14:30 Ruwi

10:45 19:00

Daily Daily

TO FAHUD - YIBAL (Route 62) 06:30 Fahud 06:30 Yibal

10:30 11:15

Daily Daily

TO YIBAL - FAHUD (Route 62) 12:30 Fahud 12:30 Ruwi

13:15 17:30

Daily Daily

TO MARMUL-SALALAH (Route 100) 07:00 Salalah 20:00 10:00 Marmul 20:30 10:00 Salalah 23:30 19:00 Salalah 07:40

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO SALALAH -MARMUL (Route 100) 07:00 Ruwi 19:50 10:00 Marmul 13:15 10:00 Ruwi 22:30 19:00 Ruwi 07:30

Daily Daily Daily Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

Daily

TO MARMUL (Route 101) 06:00 Marmul

16:30

Daily

Daily

DUBAI TO SALALAH (Route 102) 15:00 Salalah 07:00

Daily

16:50

SALALAH TO DUBAI (Route 102) 15:00 Dubai 07:00

LIBRA L

Sunset Sunrise (Tomorrow)

6.19pm 6.07am

High tide Low tide

1:40pm 6:58am

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 06:00 Sohar 06:00 Dubai 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Dubai 15:00 Sohar 15:00 Dubai

08:30 11:30 15:30 18:30 17:35 20:55

Daily Daily Wed,Thur Wed,Thur Daily Daily

TO DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 07:00 Fujairah 11.45 Daily 07:00 Sharjah 13.30 Daily 07:00 Dubai 14.00 Daily

TO DUBAI (Route 201) 07:30 Sohar 07:30 Ruwi 13:00 Sohar 13:00 Ruwi 15:30 Sohar 15:30 Ruwi

10:50 13:40 16:15 19:10 18:45 21:35

Daily Daily Thur-Fri Thur-Fri Daily Daily

FROM DUBAI VIA FUJIRAH & SHARJAH (Route 204) Dept Destination Arrival Operating Time Time Days 16:00 Sharjah 16:30 Daily 16.00 Fujairah 18.15 Daily 16.00 Ruwi 23.00 Daily

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Tel: 23291635 HOSPITALS Al Amal Medical & Health Care Centre: 24485052 Atlas Hospital: Ruwi: 24811743/ Ghubra: 24504000 Al Musafir Specialised Medical Clinic: 24706453 Hatat Polyclinic LLC, Ruwi: 24563641, Azaiba: 24499269, Sohar: 2683006 Al Raffah Hospital: 24618900/1/2 Al Massaraat Clinic & Laboratory: 24566435 Al Makook Medical Coordinance Centre: 24499434 Apollo Medical Centre, Hamriya: 24787766, 24787780 Capital Polyclinic: 24707549 Badr Al Samaa Polyclinic, Ruwi: 24799760/1/2 Capital Clinic, Seeb: 24420740 Ceregem National Raak: 24485633 Dr Harub’s Clinic: 24563217 Elixir Health Centre: 24565802 Emirates Medical Centre: 24604540 1st Chiropractic Centre: 24472274 Hamdan Hospital: 23212340 International Medical Centre LLC: 24794501/2/3/4/5 Kims Oman Hospital: 24760100

24 Hrs Emergency: 24760123 Lama Polyclinic, Sohar: 26751128, MBD: 24799077, Al Khuwair: 24478818 Magrabi Eye and Ear Hospital: 24568870 Muscat Private Hospital: 24583600 Welcare Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Al Khuwair: 24477666 Al-Hayat Polyclinc LLC: 22004000 ROYAL OMAN POLICE Emergencies and inquiries: 9999 General Directorate of Passport and Residence: 24569603 Directorate General of Customs: 24521109 Traffic violations inquiries: 24510228 Public Relations Admin: 24560099 ACCOMMODATION Al Bahjah Hotel: 24424400 Al Bustan Palace: 24764000 Al Khuwair Hotel Apartments: 24478171 Al Madina Holiday Inn: 24596400 Al Maha International Hotel: 24494949 Al Fanar Hotel: 24712385 Al Falaj Hotel: 24702311 Al Qurum Resort: 24605945 Azaiba Hotel Apartments: 24490979 Beach Hotel: 24696601 Bowshar Hotel: 24491105 Coral Hotel Muscat: 24692121 Crowne Plaza Muscat: 24660660 Crystal Suites: 24826100 Golden Tulip Seeb: 24510300 Grand Hyatt Muscat: 24641234 Haffa House Hotel: 24707207 Hotel Muscat Holiday: 24487123 InterContinental Muscat: 24680000 Majan Continental Hotel: 24592900 Marina Hotel: 24711711 Midan Hotel Suites: 24499565 Mina Hotel: 24711828 Muttrah Hotel: 24798401

Nuzha Hotel Apartments: 24789199 Oman Dive Centre: 24824240 Park Inn: 24507888 Qurum Beach House Hotel: 24564070 Radisson Blu Hotel: 24487777 Ramee Dream Resort Seeb: 24453399 Ramee Guestline Hotel: 24564443 Ruwi Hotel: 24704244 Safeer Hotel Suites: 24691200 Sheraton Oman Hotel: 24772772 Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa: 24776666 The Chedi Muscat: 24524400 The Treasurebox Muscat Hotel: 24502570 AIRLINE OFFICES Muscat Airport Flight information (24 hours): 24519456/24519223 Aeroflot: 24704455, Air Arabia: 24700828, Air France: 24562153, Air India: 24799801, Air New Zealand: 24700732, Biman Bangladesh Airlines: 24701128, British Airways: 24568777, Cathay Pacific: 24789818, Egypt Air: 24794113, Emirates Air: 24404400, Ethiopian Airlines: 24660313, Gulf Air: 80072424, Indian: 24791914, Iran Air: 24787423, Japan Airlines: 24704455, Jazeera Airways: 23294848, Jet Airways: 24787248, Kenya Airways: 24660300, KML Royal Dutch Airlines: 24566737, Kuwait Airways: 24701262, LOT Polish Airlines: 24796387, Lufthansa: 24796692, Malaysian Airlines: 24560796, Middle East Airlines: 24796680, Oman Air: 24531111, Pakistan International Airlines: 24792471, Qatar Airways: 24771900, Qantas: 24559941, Royal Jordanian: 24796693, Saudi Arabian Airlines: 24789485, Singapore Airlines: 24791233, Shaheen Air: 24816565, SriLankan Airlines:

WEDNESDAY

Min

L O N G D I S TA N C E B U S T I M I N G S ( O M A N N AT I O N A L T R A N S P O R T C O M PA N Y S A O C ) * S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E

You’re wondering what’s next, but that may be just a bit premature.

There is something that requires attention right now.

12.18pm 3.45pm 6.25pm 7.35pm 4.51am

12:07am 6:35pm

wave height of 5.5 metres, and slight along the rest of Oman’s coast with maximum wave height of 1.25 metres.

HORIZONTAL VISIBILITY: Good over most of the Sultanate becoming poor during fog formation and rain.

THE NEXT 48 HOURS OUTLOOK: Clear to partly cloudy skies over northern governorates with chances of isolated rain over Governorate of Musandam and the coastal areas of Oman Sea. Chance of convective clouds developments and thundershower over Al Hajar mountains and adjoining areas. Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and fog patches over Governorates of South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta.

Max

OMAN

TAURUS

Dhuhr Asr Maghrib Isha Fajr (Tomorrow)

AIRLINES

lear to partly cloudy skies over northern governorates of the Sultanate with chances of isolated rain over the governorates of Musandam and north Al Batinah and chances of clouds development and isolated rain over Al Hajar mountain and adjoining areas towards afternoon. Chances of late night to early morning low level clouds and fog patches over Governorates of South Al Sharqiyah and Al Wusta.

EXPECTED WINDS: Over most governorates of the Sultanate winds will be northerly to northwesterly light to moderate and Southerly light to moderate along southeastern coast.

SEA STATE: Moderate along western Musandam with maximum

ARIES It’s a good day to pitch in and help someone who isn’t likely to ask for help directly. You know what is needed, and when.

PRAYER TIMINGS

24784545, Swiss International Airlines: 24796692, Thai Airways: 24705934, Turkish Airlines: 24703033 MUSEUMS Bait Al Baranda: Corniche (seafront opp fish market), Open from Saturday to Thursday 9am to 1pm and 4 to 6pm Natural History Museum: Al Khuwair, Tel: 24604957, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm; Thursday: 9am to 1pm Museum of Omani Heritage: (former Omani Museum), Madinat Al Alam, Sat-Wed 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday 9am to 1pm, Tel: 24600946 Armed Forces Museum: Bait Al Falaj, Tel: 24312651, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm; Thurs 9-12pm and 3-6pm; Fri 9-11am and 3-6pm. Al Hoota Caves 24498258; Turtle Beach 96550606/96550707 Children’s Science Museum: Shatti Al Qurum, Tel: 24605368, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Oman-French Museum: near Muscat Police Station, Tel: 24736613, Open from Sat to Wed: 8am to 1:30pm, Thurs: 9am to 1pm Bait Al Zubair, Muscat: Tel: 24736688, Al Saidiya St., Muscat museum@baitalzubairmuseum.com Open from Sat to Thurs: 9:30am to 6pm.

National Museum Ruwi: Tel: 24701289, Open from Saturday to Wednesday: 8am to 1:30pm, Thursday: 9am to 1pm Sohar Fort Museum: Tel: 26844758, Open from Saturday to Wed: 8 to 1:30pm Thurs: 9am to 1pm Muscat Gate Museum: at Al Bahri Road, Muscat open from Sat to Wed 8am to 2pm

THURSDAY FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

ABU DHABI 0005 CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 SALALAH 0125 LAHORE 0215 ISTANBUL-BAHRAIN 0255 DOHA 0345 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 DUBAI 0415 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 JEDDAH 0645 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 RIYADH 0700 MALPENSA 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 PARIS 0800 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 TEHRAN 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 LAHORE 0920 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 DUBAI 0940 MADRAS 0940 BANGALORE 1000 COCHIN 1010 DOHA 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1020 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUQUM OMAN 1035 DUBAI 1110 KHASAB 1115 RAS AL KHAIMA 1120 BAHRAIN 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 MALE 1205 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 LAHORE 1215 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 KARACHI 1355 SALALAH 1445 KHASAB 1445 ABU DHABI 1530 DUBAI 1555 ISLAM ABBAD 1625 MUKHAIZNA 1630 BAHRAIN 1630 TRIVANDRUM 1705 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 JAIPUR 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 DOHA 1745 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 DUBAI 1945 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 JAKARTA 2055 MUNICH 2105 BANGALORE-HYDERABAD 2105 MALE 2110 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 SALALAH 2205 DOHA 2210 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AMMAN 2255 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350

WY406 WY682 WY676 WY636 WY648 WY816 WY910 BG021 WY916 PK225 TK774 QR1132 ET624 EK866 GF560 EY384 PK291 FZ041 MS930 WY114 WY658 WY638 WY902 WY678 WY686 WY412 WY144 WY154 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY602 WY202 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY242 WY236 WY226 WY346 WY252 WY212 EK862 QR1128 IX443 EY382 9W530 WY604 WY844 WY918 GF562 WY424 WY372 FZ037 IX337 WY904 WY716 WY324 WY3302 WY818 WY606 BG023 IX817 WY920 WY906 PK229 WY3922 WY632 SV530 FZ045 WY328 WY656 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY3304 WY610 WY264 WY284 WY232 WY274 QR1126 EK864 WY3932 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 TG507 WY434 FZ047 WY664 WY338 WY614 WY124 4H561 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 WY374 FZ049 AI907 QR1134 WY914 UL205 GF566 BA073 EY388 SG061 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696 WY717

CAIRO 0005 RIYADH 0005 JEDDAH 0005 ABU DHABI 0005 KUWAIT 0010 BANGKOK 0015 SALALAH 0030 DACCA-CHITTAGONG 0100 SALALAH 0125 KARACHI 0210 ISTANBUL 0215 DOHA 0345 ADDIS ABABA 0350 DUBAI 0355 BAHRAIN 0405 ABU DHABI 0405 ISLAM ABBAD 0410 DUBAI 0415 CAIRO 0430 FRANKFURT 0610 BAHRAIN 0640 ABU DHABI 0650 SALALAH 0655 MEDINA 0700 RIYADH 0700 AMMAN 0705 MALPENSA 0720 ZURICH 0720 JEDDAH 0730 DOHA 0735 KUWAIT 0735 DUBAI 0805 BOMBAY 0815 LONDON HEATHROW 0820 LAHORE 0830 DUBAI 0850 SHARJAH 0915 DELHI 0920 HYDERABAD 0920 COCHIN 0930 ISLAM ABBAD 0930 MADRAS 0940 TRIVANDRUM 0940 DUBAI 0940 DOHA 1010 COCHIN 1010 ABU DHABI 1015 TRIVANDRUM 1035 DUBAI 1110 MANILA 1110 KHASAB 1115 BAHRAIN 1130 BEIRUT 1130 COLOMBO 1140 DUBAI 1200 CALICUT 1210 SALALAH 1215 ZANZIBAR 1225 KARACHI 1230 MUKHAIZNA 1230 BANGKOK 1305 DUBAI 1330 CHITTAGONG 1345 MANGALORE-ABU DHABI 1440 KHASAB 1445 SALALAH 1445 LAHORE 1500 DUQUM OMAN 1520 ABU DHABI 1540 JEDDAH 1550 DUBAI 1555 LAHORE 1600 BAHRAIN 1630 BOMBAY 1710 CALICUT 1720 DELHI 1730 MUKHAIZNA 1730 DUBAI 1730 LUCKNOW 1735 BANGALORE 1740 HYDERABAD 1740 JAIPUR 1740 DOHA 1745 DUBAI 1750 SOHAR 1805 BAHRAIN 1810 KUALA LUMPUR 1910 SHARJAH 1915 MADRAS 1920 KUWAIT 1925 BANGKOK-KARACHI 1935 TEHRAN 1940 DUBAI 1945 DOHA 1955 KATHMANDU 2010 DUBAI 2030 MUNICH 2105 DACCA 2115 AMSTERDAM-DOHA 2120 DELHI 2125 DUBAI 2125 BOMBAY 2130 COCHIN 2140 CHITTAGONG 2140 COLOMBO 2140 DUBAI 2145 MADRAS 2200 DOHA 2210 SALALAH 2215 COLOMBO 2225 BAHRAIN 2240 LONDON HEATHROW-ABU DHABI 2240 ABU DHABI 2250 AHMEDABAD 2300 SALALAH 2305 AHMEDABAD-BOMBAY 2310 DOHA 2315 ZURICH-DUBAI 2320 BOMBAY 2325 FRANKFURT-ABU DHABI 2330 DUBAI 2335 BAHRAIN 2340 SALALAH 2345 DAMMAM 2350 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 2355

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

FLT NO

DEPARTURES TO

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 LH619 WY685 WY251 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY601 WY341 WY281 WY431 WY241 WY643 WY821 WY657 WY637 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY383 WY901 WY847 PK230 TK777 EK867 FZ042 QR1133 EY385 WY3921 GF561 4H562 WY903 WY603 WY3301 WY917 WY215 WY263 WY323 WY291 WY347 NL769 FZ044 WY385 WY245 WY231 WY843 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY905 WY605 WY203 WY253 WY337 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX554 QR1129 IX442 9W533 WY919 WY655 G9842 GF563 WY631 WY3303 IX350 PA451 FZ038 WY663 WY113 WY101 WY153 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY609 WY405 WY413 WY675 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 QR1127 WY681 WY907 GF565 WY647 WY661 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 FZ048 WY635 WY915 AI978 FZ050 KL442 WY817 WY411 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 AI974 WY677 QR1135 GF567 WY673 EY381

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 MADRAS 0110 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 DUBAI 0150 LAHORE 0150 BANGALORE 0150 TEHRAN 0155 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 ABU DHABI 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 MALE 0235 SALALAH 0240 JAKARTA 0245 LAHORE 0315 BAHRAIN-ISTANBUL 0350 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 DUQUM OMAN 0740 BAHRAIN 0745 DACCA 0745 SALALAH 0800 DUBAI 0800 MUKHAIZNA 0800 KHASAB 0815 TRIVANDRUM 0845 LUCKNOW 0920 KARACHI 0920 CALICUT 0920 ISLAM ABBAD 0920 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 MALE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 MANILA 1000 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 SALALAH 1030 DUBAI 1030 BOMBAY 1030 MADRAS 1040 KATHMANDU 1040 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 TRIVANDRUM 1110 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 RAS AL KHAIMA 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 ABU DHABI 1220 MUKHAIZNA 1300 CALICUT 1310 LAHORE 1315 DUBAI 1315 DOHA 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 ZURICH 1405 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 AMMAN 1455 JEDDAH 1630 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1800 DUBAI 1820 DOHA 1845 RIYADH 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 KUWAIT 1900 DOHA 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 DUBAI 2040 ABU DHABI 2040 SALALAH 2110 HYDERABAD-BANGALORE 2200 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 AMMAN 2240 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 DELHI 2310 MEDINA 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 JEDDAH 2350 ABU DHABI 2350

AI986 LX243 BA072 9W539 WY715 LH619 WY685 WY211 WY251 WY423 WY201 WY225 WY235 WY345 WY601 WY241 WY643 WY637 WY657 WY821 WY123 WY371 WY667 WY901 BG022 PK226 TK775 ET625 EK867 FZ042 PK292 QR1133 EY385 MS931 GF561 WY903 WY323 WY603 WY917 WY3301 WY291 WY263 NL769 WY327 FZ044 WY283 WY245 WY231 G9115 WY815 WY273 WY203 WY605 WY905 WY337 WY373 WY253 WY717 EK863 WY311 EY383 IX442 QR1129 9W533 WY919 WY655 GF563 WY3921 WY631 IX350 FZ038 WY3303 WY433 WY113 WY101 WY645 WY927 WY143 WY131 WY609 WY405 BG024 IX818 WY663 WY3931 PK230 WY675 SV531 FZ046 WY613 WY913 WY623 WY681 QR1127 WY907 GF565 WY661 WY647 EK865 WY695 WY653 G9117 WY909 WY611 WY635 FZ048 TG508 WY915 4H561 FZ050 KL442 WY817 9W529 6.00E+82 AI908 WY677 AI974 QR1135 GF567 UL206 EY381 WY673

BOMBAY 0005 DUBAI-ZURICH 0020 ABU DHABI-LONDON HEATHROW 0025 BOMBAY 0025 ZANZIBAR 0040 ABU DHABI-FRANKFURT 0050 RIYADH 0105 TRIVANDRUM 0110 MADRAS 0110 BEIRUT 0115 BOMBAY 0120 COCHIN 0125 HYDERABAD 0135 ISLAM ABBAD 0150 DUBAI 0150 DELHI 0155 KUWAIT 0200 ABU DHABI 0205 BAHRAIN 0205 KUALA LUMPUR 0205 MUNICH 0210 COLOMBO 0210 DOHA 0225 SALALAH 0240 CHITTAGONG-DACCA 0250 KARACHI 0310 ISTANBUL 0315 ADDIS ABABA 0450 DUBAI 0455 DUBAI 0510 ISLAM ABBAD 0510 DOHA 0520 ABU DHABI 0525 CAIRO 0530 BAHRAIN 0745 SALALAH 0800 KARACHI 0800 DUBAI 0800 KHASAB 0815 MUKHAIZNA 0830 CALICUT 0920 LUCKNOW 0920 LAHORE 0930 LAHORE 0930 DUBAI 0935 BANGALORE 0940 DELHI 0955 HYDERABAD 0955 SHARJAH 1005 BANGKOK 1010 JAIPUR 1030 BOMBAY 1030 DUBAI 1030 SALALAH 1030 KATHMANDU 1040 COLOMBO 1040 MADRAS 1040 ZANZIBAR-DARESSLAM 1045 DUBAI 1055 CHITTAGONG 1100 ABU DHABI 1105 COCHIN 1115 DOHA 1115 COCHIN 1135 KHASAB 1145 BAHRAIN 1210 BAHRAIN 1215 DUQUM OMAN 1220 ABU DHABI 1230 CALICUT 1310 DUBAI 1315 MUKHAIZNA 1330 TEHRAN 1330 FRANKFURT 1400 LONDON HEATHROW 1400 KUWAIT 1405 SALALAH 1415 MALPENSA 1415 PARIS 1420 DUBAI 1420 CAIRO 1430 CHITTAGONG 1500 MANGALORE 1530 DOHA 1540 SOHAR 1600 LAHORE 1600 JEDDAH 1630 MEDINA-JEDDAH 1650 DUBAI 1700 DUBAI 1700 SALALAH 1810 DUBAI 1820 RIYADH 1845 DOHA 1845 SALALAH 1850 BAHRAIN 1855 DOHA 1900 KUWAIT 1900 DUBAI 1905 DAMMAM 1910 BAHRAIN 1920 SHARJAH 2005 SALALAH 2015 DUBAI 2025 ABU DHABI 2040 DUBAI 2040 KARACHI-BANGKOK 2040 SALALAH 2110 JEDDAH 2215 DUBAI 2225 DOHA-AMSTERDAM 2230 BANGKOK 2235 TRIVANDRUM 2240 BOMBAY 2245 MADRAS 2300 MEDINA 2310 DELHI 2310 DOHA 2320 BAHRAIN 2325 COLOMBO 2335 ABU DHABI 2350 JEDDAH 2350

FLT NO

ARRIVALS FROM

WY636 WY406 WY682 WY676 WY648 WY816 WY910 WY916 PK229 TK776 QR1132 EK866 GF560 EY384 FZ041 WY114 WY658 4H562 WY638 WY902 WY686 WY144 WY674 WY668 WY644 WY132 WY602 WY202 WY432 WY102 NL768 FZ043 G9114 WY342 WY242 WY236 WY226 EK862 WY252 WY282 IX443 QR1128 EY382 IX549 9W530 WY3922 WY604 WY918 G9841 GF562 WY372 FZ037 WY384 IX337 WY904 PA450 WY3302 WY818 WY606 WY324 WY906 WY920 WY632 FZ045 WY348 WY3304 WY656 WY216 WY204 WY292 WY246 WY610 WY264 WY274 WY232 QR1126 WY664 EK864 GF564 WY822 G9116 WY254 WY646 FZ047 WY338 WY614 WY848 WY124 AI977 WY386 KL441 AI973 WY624 6.00E+81 9W534 WY312 FZ049 AI907 WY914 QR1134 GF566 BA073 EY388 WY414 WY908 AI985 WY662 LX242 9W540 LH618 WY612 WY654 WY928 WY696

ETA

ETD

ETA

ETD

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

C11

ENTERTAINMENT CINEMA SCHEDULE

BAHJA CINEMA Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn (15+) 7:30 PM Gold Class: 02:15 PM & 09:00 PM Insurgent (2D)(Action/Crime) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort 11:45 AM Insurgent (3D) (Sci-Fi/Thriller (PG12) 9:30 PM & 11:45 PM Gold Class: 4:30 PM & 11:15 PM Cinderella (2D) (Adventure) (PG) 11:00 AM & 5:30 PM Run All Night (2D) (Action) (15+) 7:30 PM Winx: The Mystery Abyss (Animation) (PG) 10:15 AM, 2:00 & 3:45 PM Crazy Beautiful You (2D) (Action) (PG12) Cast: Daniel Padilla, Kathryn Bernardo 3:15 PM The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2D) (Comedy/Drama) (PG) Cast: Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill 1:00 & 5:15 PM Gold Class: 6:45 PM

Insurgent (3D) (Adventure/ Sci Fi) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, 7:00, 9:15, 11:30 PM (PG12) Insurgent (2D) (Adventure/ Sci Fi) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, 2:30 PM (PG12) The Gunman (2D) (Action/Crime) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn (15+) 4:45, 9:30, 11:45 PM Ex- Machina (2D) (Drama, Sci Fi) (15+) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac 11:30 PM Get Hard (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Will Ferrel, Kevin Hart 9:30 PM Cinderella (2D) (Adv/Drama) (PG) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell 3:45, 5:45 PM Winx: The Mystery of the Abyss (2D) (Animation) (PG) 2:00, 3:15 PM Suite Francaise (2D) (Drama)(PG12) Cast: Michelle Williams, Kristin Scott Thomas, Margot 7:30 PM The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2D) (Comedy I Drama) (PG) Cast: Michelle Williams, Kristin Scott 5:00, 7:15 PM

SCREEN 1 Dilliwali Zalim Girlfriend – Hindi (Comedy/Romance) (12+) Cast: Divyendu Sharma, Jackie Shroff, Prachi Mishra, Ira Dubey 3.30, 6.30, 9.30 PM

Ex Machina (Sci-fi /Drama) (15+) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Oscar Isaac 11:45 PM Get Hard (2D) (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 09:40 PM The Gunman (2D) (Action/Crime)

SCREEN 2 NH 10 – Hindi (Suspense/ Thriller) (12+) Cast: Anushka Sharma, Neil Bhoopalam, Ravi Jhankal, Darshan Kumaar 3.45, 6.45, 9.45 PM

SCREEN 3 Badlapur – (Action | Drama) – 15+ 3.45, 9.45 pm Cast: Varun Dhawan, Huma Qureshi, Yami Gautam Run All Nighht (Action) – 15+ Cast: Genesis Rodriguez, Liam Neeson 6.45 PM

Run All Night – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed Harris 11:15 PM Cinderella – 2D (PG) (Adventure) Cast: Lily James, Hayley Atwell, 4:30 PM Insurgent – 2D (PG12) (Adventure) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel 5:15 PM Insurgent – 3D (PG12) Adventure|SciFi | Thriller Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort, Theo James 8:00, 9:30, 11:45 PM The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 3:00, 7:25, 9:15, 11:45 PM Winx Club : The Mystery of the Abyss – 2D (PG) Animation 3:30, 5:00, 6:30 PM The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel – 2D (PG) Comedy |Drama Cast: Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, Bill 5:00, 7:00 PM Suite Française – 2D (PG12) Drama |Romance | War Cast: Michelle Williams, Kristin Scott Thomas, Margot 3:00, 7:15 PM The Lazarus Effect – 2D (Horror) Cast: Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass 10:15 PM (12+)

Get Hard – 2D (15+) Comedy Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison 9:15 PM Ex Machina– 2D (15+)(Drama) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Domhnall Gleeson, Oscar Isaac 11 :30 PM

The Gunman – 2D (15+) (Action) Cast: Javier Bardem, Idris Elba 3:00, 5:00, 9:15, 11:30 PM Insurgent -2D (PG12) (Adventure) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel Elgort 5:00 PM Insurgent – 3D (PG12) (Adventure) 7:15, 9:30, 11:45PM The Lazarus Effect – 2D (12+)Horror, Thriller Cast: Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Evan 3:30 PM Ex- Machina 2D (15+) (sci-fic) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Oscar Isaac 11:45pm Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend – 2D Romance, Comedy Cast: Divyendu Sharma, Jackie Shroff 7:00, 9:30 PM Winx Club : The Mystery of the Abyss – 2D (PG) Animation 3:00, 4:30, 6:00 PM Run All Night – 2D (15+) Action 7:30 PM

Insurgent (3D) (Adventure) (PG12) Cast: Shailene Woodley, Ansel 5:45, 9:30, 11:45 PM The Gunman (Action) (15+) Cast: Javier Bardem, Sean Penn 7:00, 9:05 PM

The Lazarus Effect (Horror | Thriller) Cast: Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass, Evan 4.15PM (12+) Get Hard (Comedy) (15+) Cast: Will Ferrell, Kevin Hart, Alison Brie 8:00PM Winx Club: The Mystery of the Abyss (Animation) (PG) 4:00, 5:30 PM Ex Machina (Drama | Sci-Fi) (15+) Cast: Alicia Vikander, Oscar Isaac 11:15 PM

Winx : The Mystery of the Abyss (2D)(PG) (Animation) 11:00AM, 2:15, 5:45PM Insurgent (2D)(PG12) (Adventure) 2:40PM Insurgent (3D)(PG12); 9:15, 11:30PM The Gunman (2D)(15+) (Action) 5:00, 7:05, 9:40PM Ex Machina (2D)(15+) (Drama) 11:45PM Run All Night (2D)(15+) (Action) 12:30PM Get Hard (2D)(15+) (Comedy) 9:30PM Cinderella (2D)(PG) (Adventure) 12:15, 3:45PM Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend (2D) 7:20PM The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2D)(PG)( Comedy/ Drama) 11:30AM, 7:15PM Crazy Beautiful You (2D)(PG12) (Drama) 3:15PM Suite Française (2D)(PG12)(Drama) 5:15PM The Lazarus Effect (2D)(12+) (Horror/Thriller) 1:45, 11:30PM

Run All Night ( Action/Crime) Cast: Liam Neeson, Ed haris 10.00 p.m; CP No: 668 (15+) Lazarus Effect (Horror/Thriller ) Cast: Olivia Wilde, Mark Duplass 4.00, 8.00 p.m; CP No: 749 (12+) Suite Francaise (Drama/Romance) Cast: Michalle Williams, Kristin Scott 2.00 & 6.00 p.m.; CP No: 747 (PG12) Winx Club: The Mystery Of The Abyss (Animation) 2.00 & 6.00 p.m.; CP No: 748 (PG ) Insurgent (Action/Sci:Fic) Cast: Shailen Woodley, Ansel Elgot 3.45, 7.30, 9.45 pm CP No: 746 (PG 12) Ex- Machina (Thriller/ Sci:Fic) Cast: Oscar Isac, Alicia Vikander 11.55 pm; (15+) Get Hard (Comedy) Cast: Will Farell, Kevin Hart, Alison 11.55 p.m (15+)

Film Information - 24540856 / Advance Booking - 24540855 Website: www.albahjacinemaoman.com

STARS CINEMA Film information 24791641 / 24786776

Fireman (Mal) (Act \Thriller) Cast: Mammootty & Nyla Usha 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Cinema Main Kakki Sattai (Tamil) ( Com\Act) Cast: Shiva Karthikeyan, Sri Divya & Prabhu 3:30, 6:30 & 9:30pm Cinema -2 NH 10 (Hindi) (Action\Thriller) Cast: Anushka Sharma, Deepti Naval & Neil Bhoopalam 3:45, 6:45 & 9:45pm Cinema – 3 Temper (Telugu) (Act) Cast: Jr Ntr, Kajal Agarwal 3:45pm Cinema-4 Picket 43 (Mal) (Act) Cast: Prithviraj, Javed Jafry 6:45 & 9:45pm Cinema -4 Next Change: 100 Days Of Love (Mal )

For More Information 24789032, 24786776 Website: www.isurf.co.om

ACES ON BRIDGE

SUDOKU

With another card, is it now a finesse?

8

HOW TO PLAY Fill the empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column and area.

— Seven Galaxies

1

1 6 2 4 9 2

3

5 8

3

7

2 6 1 3 5 4 6 7

1 2 4 7 5 1 8 4 5 3 7 2 8 3

4 7 3 6 5 8 9 1 2 6 1 9 2 7 3 5 4 8 8 2 5 9 1 4 7 3 6 7 6 1 4 8 5 2 9 3 2 9 4 3 6 1 8 5 7 3 5 8 7 2 9 4 6 1

MARMADUKE

CROSSWORD

B I G NAT E

1 6 11 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 25 27 29 31 32 35 38 39 41 43 44

Fish organs Charlatan Language oddities Wrinkle Locale for a cattail One-time Sorenstam rival Charged particle — kwon do Cookie or candy No matter which Veer off-course Sock filler La — Tar Pits Junk email Quick raids Wheel track Bro’s sibling Criticised, wittily Horses’ mouthpieces Hideaways Male in the meadow Wide-mouthed pitcher California fort Dropped the ball

46 47 48 49 50

Umbrage Forest grazer Politician picker Nurse a drink Feminine or masculine 52 Waver precariously 54 Organic compound 55 Mural undercoat DOWN 1 They may be all tied up 2 Lofty goals 3 Form a queue (2 wds.)

4 Behold!

5 Metro haze 6 Wharf 7 Doubtful answer 8 Honey farm 9 Genetic copies 10 Somalia neighbor 12 Kilt sporter 13 Calf-roping events 16 Pony foot 22 Holds down a job

24 Bandleader Count — 26 Coffee container 28 Umbrella spoke 30 Fright 32 Some binary digits 33 Hit the Tab key 34 Arrow cousin 36 Unexpected

developments 37 Network offering 38 Jump out of the way 40 Bump into 42 Dupe 44 Now or in the past 45 Remnant 51 Mal — mer 53 Wide shoe

Answer to previous puzzle

ACROSS

AMMATANDA C. BOPANNA

AARAV M. NAIR

March 25, 2005

March 26, 2013

P. S. NIKHILESHH

REUBEN SAMUEL AMBA

NAYANITA NITHIN

NANDITHA SREE KUMAR

March 26, 2008

March 27, 2011

March 27, 2010

March 27, 2008

LOHITH S. KANCHAN

NANDANA RAMESH

March 26, 2012

March 26

9 4 7 1 3 2 6 8 5 1 8 6 5 4 7 3 2 9 5 3 2 8 9 6 1 7 4

Previous puzzle Solution

HELEN Mirren said, “I prefer the finesse of French humour. English humour is more scathing, more cruel ... as illustrated by Monty Python and Little Britain.”

Surely the English have not lost their subtle humour. British understatement cannot be a thing of the past, can it?

This week, we have been looking at some deals that might at first glance appear to involve a finesse, but have in fact required leading twice toward the hand with the two honours. Is this another example?

South is in three no-trump. West leads the spade queen. How should South plan the play? Faites vos jeux.

South starts with seven top tricks: two spades, two hearts, one diamond and two clubs. Obviously, he will have to take three diamond tricks to reach nine. And, it must be admitted, on many deals, starting the suit by leading a sneaky jack from hand will not hurt. First, the suit might split 3-2. Second, that play might gain, when West starts with king-doubleton and fails to cover an honour with an honour. But assuming there is no misdefence, it cannot gain to lead the jack first, and it might cost. Imagine West or East has a singleton king. Or look at today’s layout.

This is another case of leading twice toward the hand with the two honours. After taking the first trick, declarer should lead a diamond to dummy’s ace and return a diamond toward his hand. Here, East will probably play low. South wins with his queen, notes West’s discard, returns to dummy with a heart, and leads another diamond through East to get home.

— By Phillip Alder

WITH LOVE

BORN LOSER

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KIDSPOT

H E A LT H C A P S U L E

C1 2

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25, 2015

D

W W W.T I M E S O F O M A N . C O M W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

SECTION

CONNEC T H E D A I LY G U I D E

RENT

D2

VACANCY

D4

CARGO

D7

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D2

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

FOR RENT

OFFICES FOR RENT Premium offices to let a very good location on the main road very close to Zakher Mall, Al Khawiar. Business Center has offices with sizes of 50m2, 110m2, 180m2, 207m2, 230m2, 437m2.

Showroom also available at Business Center, Area 500m2 with central A/c.

Offices with Central Air-conditions, Security System with CCTV cameras, and Security presence in the building.

Contact: 97377355 / 97307476, Email id: aaleem@ggcoman.com

1bedroom, 2 bedroom + showroom, 18 November road Al Azaiba.

Contact 99565364 / 99617786 Shop available at Ruwi 2 shutters.

Contact 99345044 Good 1,2 BHK flats at Darsait, Al Khuwair office place in Al Khuwair. Contact 99369081 Spacious villa, 2 floors with swimming pool garden, garage, servant room, 3 bedrooms with seaside view, three lounges, dining room, 5 bath rooms in Qurum area rent R.O 1500/per month, 1 yr advance. Contact 99335594 / 95501858 Villa for rent 4 rooms, 3 toilets behind Kuwait Mosque, Wadi Kabeer.

Contact 92925173 Villa in Bosher behind Dolphin, 5 BHK hall living room with split A/C RO 650/- family only.

Contact 92479515 Flat Al Ghubra South first floor, 3BHK hall, living room split a/c for family only 500/-. Contact 92479515 Flat Al Azaiba ground floor 4BHK living room split a/c for family only parking 550/-R.O. Contact 92479515 Flats shops and store for rent in MBD area and Honda road. Contact 92433127/ 97293708/ 95150632 Flat for rent in Wadi Kabir near Lulu 4BHK. Contact 97007934 / 92629232 Commercial Villa in Al Khuwair with Private Parking’s,7 Rooms Hall and Reception and Kitchen Contact 95202430

Industrial /commercial shops at Wadi Kabir 4 x 5.6 x 4.6 MTR height.

Showroom with mezzanine & office at Al Noor Street near Switz bakery & Al Masa hall corner building all on roads & parkings in front of shops & show room. # 99065900 or 99354975 Al Ghubra small house for rent 160/-. Contact 95032152 2 & 3 BHK Darsait School new building. Contact 99024730 2 BHK & studio flat at Darsait 1SM. Contact 99024730 Furnished single room with A/C and attached bathroom is available at Rex Road for Non cooking Executive bachelor from 1st April 2015.

Contact 99116286 2 BHK Flat in Qurum.

Contact 99792181

Villa for rent with 4 bedroom at Al Khodh, Rent 750/-RO.#92888115 3BR top class fitting flat , ideal for top Executives Mumtaz area, Ruwi.

Contact 91287824 Labour Camp in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99792181 Spacious 2 BR, flat in MBD. Contact 99713489 Flat for rent in Wadi Al Kabir, 2 rooms & 3 toilets next to Platinum Gym. Contact 99210008

1, 2 & 3 BHK Flat in Alkhuwair.

Contact 99792181

1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. Electricity and boundary wall will be provided.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

4 Bhk Villa in Alkhuwair & Madinat Ilham. Contact 99792181

Flat 4 rent south Al Mabelah.

Contact 95331177 / 95230355

250 Sqr Mtrs office in CBD. Contact 99792181

1,000 sq mtrs industrial land in Misfah Industrial area near to Khanco.

OMR 1,500 Monthly. It has Electricity and boundary wall.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

2 BHK flats Muttrah near Oman House. Contact 97007934 / 92629232 2 BHK flat - Spacious Hall,bed rooms and 2 bathrooms for rent in Al Khuwair Prime Location near Zawavi Mosque next to Wave Hotel.

Rent RO 370/- - Contact - 96178677 Studios starting from 160 in Qurum near Mars supermarket. Contact 96755180, 96755181

Flat with 2 bedrooms and big hall in Mawalih near King burger R.O 310/-. Contact 99886099 2BHK Apartment available at Al Khuwair 33. Contact 94057023 2BHK /3BHK apartment available at Qurum, near PDO Gate-2.

Contact 94057023

New building near the Bousher Al Misfah high way, with showroom, offices, and shops. Great for banks, medical clinics and companies 95202430

Prim location, nice finishing villa for RENT. 2 big bedrooms . Main large sitting room. Small maid room. Kitchen and 3 bathrooms.

At Alkhuwair. near Holiday Inn & Oman Club. Contact 99426662, PDC only. For families & college girls.

Dental clinic for sale in Seeb area.

Contact 96903341

1 bedroom attached toilet in Al Khuwair bachelors/ family R.O 140/-. Contact 95154331

Treadmill motorized in good running condition for sale.

Contact 99358025

1 Bedroom attached toilet Al Khuwair area only for ladies or husband and wife without children. Contact 9:00 pm to 7:00 am 95765719

Urgent sale man tipper, Tata Novus prime mover with trailer, Tata Daewoo tipper, Tata water tanker, Tata Hyup, Roller, Bitili, roller double drum bitili, PTR Roller Bitili, Titan paver, Volvo, back hoeloader, SDLG wheel loader. Contact 92964673

Flat at Darsait. Contact 99326879 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ AZAIBA, 2 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 33, 1 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair, 3 B/R Luxury Fully Furnished @ Al Khuwair 25. 5 B/R Fully Furnished villa @ Madinat Al Ilam. For Daily, Weekly, monthly or Yearly contract. Contact: Atlas Real Estate & Rent A Car LLC 99249069 / 99436312/92888376, Email: info@alshahiintl.com 2BHK flat for rent Wadi Kabir near Kuwaiti Mosque. Contact 97007939 / 92629232 Villas & flats at Ansab.

Contact 98458542 Flat Wadi AL Kabeer, 2BHK, sitting room, 3 bathroom balcony split /AC 300/- R.O Contact 99324402 2 bedroom flat in Al Ghubra near Oman oil 18 November Street. OMR 330. Monthly. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Brand new deluxe flats located near Seeb flyover on the right band side of the main road coming from the Seeb palace round about, 2 bedrooms family, hall, kitchen, 3 toilets with split unit ACs. Contact 97755586

85 SQM shops in Ruwi only on 350/- OMR. Contact 95122188 / 96441499

FOR SALE

Readymade garment shop with furniture. Contact 99386170

1BHK C.B.D. Contact 99024730 Spacious 2 BHK flats in Ruwi MBD area only on 350/- OMR. Contact – 95122188 / 96441499 Beautiful office space available in Ruwi MBD area only on 2/- OMR per sqm. Contact 95122188 / 96441499 If require flats for rent in Wadi Kabir please send messages through Whatsapp or call – 99376454 Furnished room available on Seeb share with small family for couple working ladies.

Contact 96996938 1000 sq mtrs industrial land for rent in Ghala suitable for Ware house workshop.

Contact 24700120 / 925 Flats/villas owned by ROP pension fund available for rent in Muscat.

Contact 99349526

FOR SALE Shop for sale at Ruwi. Contact 99103077

5 B/R double storied 4500 sq ft house 27 cents 200 mtrs Away from main road Cherianad JN. Chenganoor. Contact 99236846 Email: nuk_lvk2012@hotmail.com For sale work shop carpenter with 4 clearances in Wadi Kabir.

Contact 99345137 Construction building material / equipment for sale on urgent basis.

Contact 95526871 Building material shop with material for sale in Al Musannah.

Contact 98053324 2 residential Lands together, one 610 and the other 600 sq mtrs, in Al Haram on way to Barka. OMR 49 Thousand both. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Building material shop for sale in Al Hail. Contact 98003111 558 Sq mtrs residential land in Barka behind Lulu and near to school.

OMR 32 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

D3

DAILY GUIDE

ACC. AVAILABLE

FOR SALE

Room with separate bath available for non cooking Executive at Al Khuwair. Contact 99224185

3 Bedrooms, with spacious hall & 3 bathrooms near ism, Darsait from 1st april 2015. Gsm 94288861

Furnished spacious room with attached bath available for Executive bachelor in Ruwi near Al Maha filling station. Contact 98290299

Furnished Sharing accommodation available for executive bachlor at Muthrah near OIFC. Pls contact. 91398353.

Restaurant for sale well running with open area and good parking area. 3 new clearance also in Wadi Kabeer near Mars hyper market.

Contact 99656863

Single room with AC, toilet, highway side at Al Hail. Contact 92968292

Furnished Room with attached bath for Indian Bachelor in Al Falaj area Ruwi & sharing room lady in Wadikabir. Call 95941515

Dental Clinic with license for sale in Sohar. Contact 92816015

Well furnished single room / sharing for Exe bachelor or small family at Rex Road. Contact 92873832

Billiards and snooker table 1 no., hand football game table 1 no. with all accessories on (as is where is) basis. The items are in Sur Industrial area. Interested parties please contact - 31032015s@gmail.com

Running beauty parlor for sale in Barka Souq with license & visa. Contact 92168729 Brand new UK made wheel balancer for sale with accessories, contact 94052713, 99885638 Coffee shop for sale at Mawala.

Contact 99646640 Used Restaurant Equipments & Furniture for immediate sale. Interested Parties contact 97824001.

2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692 Commercial registration with excellent name Grade A for business software for sale. Contact 92959251 2 Prime Movers Man 2008 with 40 ton petrol tank each working at the moment in Al Maha. Price OMR 35 Thousand each. Tel: 97000155 or 92688692 23,886 Sq Mtrs Agriculture land with water well in Al Salwa, Barka.

OMR 260 Thousand. Tel: 99333479 or 95215360 Ready mix concrete for sale.

Contact 99054673 Land for sale residential commercial and residential and tourist and industrial, and hotels for sale in Muscat (Al Khuwair and the Qurum, and crushed stone, and Bowshar, and spite and Gala heights, and the heights of the airport) to deal with the buyer. Contact 99070093 3 floor building in Muttrah behind Police. Generating income of OMR 18 Thousand annually. Neat and well maintained. Built on 197 sq mtrs land. 2 tailor shops on ground floor and 6 flats. OMR 207 Thousand.

Tel: 99333479 or 95215360

BUYING/SELLING Used household & office furniture and electronic items. Contact 99834373, 97102699 Looking for purchase of Used Portable Compressor (350 CFM, 7 Bar Pressure) powered with Diesel run Generator.

Kindly Contact 99014686 or operation@khancogroup.com

AVAILABLE Freelance HSE Advisor. Contact 93637030 Established Restaurant for rent with sponsorship. Contact 97628242 Party & Wedding equipment rentals. Full line, from Tables, Linen & Skirting, Chairs & Chair covers, Cutlery, Crockery, Glassware, Chafing Dishes, Ice Sculptures, to Large Sound Systems and spectacular lighting. Call Andrea 9606 2222 for Catering and Croyden 9623 5555 for Sound & Light. www.tunesoman. com, E-mail: info@tunesoman.com

WANTED Clinic required, One Established new Clinic in Muscat, with Valid License & Clearance is required to purchase interested Parties can contact 91283188 or send your inquiries to mohamedsfarah@hotmail.com Looking for a contractor to build my house. If you wish to apply for the position, please feel free to contact the following number: 94488999

Furnished accommodation in W/K R.O 135/-. Contact 97167857

2BR, 1BTR for Indian family ladies near Ruwi Church.Contact 99746379 Single room with furniture available behind Kamat Restaurant Al Khuwair. Contact 24125300 / 94158350 Studio flat MBD Ruwi.

Contact 95698714 Furnished Single Room available for a decent Keralite Bachelor (Sharing Kitchen/Bath) Near Oman House/Khimji Mart, Muttrah, Rent:- 85/- (Including Elec/Wat).

Contact 98450071 Single room with separate bath at Rex Road, working lady preferred.

Contact 95423572 Sharing accommodation rooms at Al Khuwair. Contact 99743569 / 97004265 Single room behind main Indian School Wadi Kabir. Contact 99376454

M.V. FOR SALE

Family sharing accommodation available in Al Khodh.# 98292798 Single room available with A/C for non cooking executive bachelor at Hamriya R/abt. (on main road side, Opp. Apollo Hospital).

Contact 91673718, 98232567 Sharing family accommodation in Wadi Kabir. Contact 99335057 Gubrah furnished room, attached bath dish TV, WIFI, kitchen available for Executive single person, couple.

Contact 99658689 Room in CBD area for non cooking Executive bachelors free WIFI, Advance deposit. Contact 95934642

ACC. WANTED Wanted a separate room near Lulu Darsait. Contact 92481082 Furnished accommodation wanted for April, May for Keralite family. Contact 99378397

NRI

Single room attached bathroom separate entrance near Rex Road Kolivada .# 99870317 / 98218453

Renault Duster (2013) for immediate sale only 15,200 kilometers driven (OMR 4300/-) Expat leaving.

Contact 93083453

Dodge Nitro 4.0 ltr engine 2007 model 130000 kms, red colour, registration valid for one year. RO.2700/-.

Contact - 91251966

Car sale BMW 740 Li & Model 2008 KM 124181, Company maintenance.

Single person used (GM).

Contact 97989094

Toyota Camry white 2011 km -51000 R.O 4800/-.Contact 99561562

BMW 318i & model 2004 KM 180678, company maintenance.

Single person used (DY.GM) Contact 97989094

Yaris 1.5, 2008 fully automatic expat driven. Contact 92227165

Kerala Malankara Catholic girl 28/155 GNM, MOH Oman looking for suitable match from Muscat / Kerala (Pta dist) M4 ID 4002623.

Contact 96708960 / 95338210

One bed room flat with hall for rent in Al Khuwair area near Radisson blue hotel. Contact 97646492 A big room available near Hamriya R/A for Muslim couple / small family /Executive bachelor rent 150/- Rial per month including W+E. Contact 99495131

Keralite RCSC parents invite alliance from RCSC boy Graduate Post Graduate 26/29 their daughter 23/167 B. Tech. Contact 97112038 / 24493497

Single room attached bathroom with kitchen near Riyam park Muscat RO 70/-. Contact 95094028 1B/R available for bachelors in REX ROAD, Ruwi. Contact 99889590

Investments, insurance and pension plans from SBI life (State Bank of India group). Contact 95778431

Vitara 2013. Contact 99336093

MATRIMONIAL

Keralite Ezhava girl BSc Nurse wheatish Bharani Nakshatram 28 yrs, 160 cm working with MOH seeks suitable alliance from Keralite professionals in Muscat.

Contact 94273585

Spacious 4BHK semi furnished 1917 sqf flat located in Mayur Paradise at Sarjapur road, Bangalore. 5 kms from Wipro. Call - 95194007

Suzki SX4 2012. Contact 99484342

Hindu Ezhava family, settled in Muscat looking for suitable groom working within Oman for their daughter 25 yrs (MBA) working with a reputed company in Muscat.

Contact : 98689663

32 yrs old Nadar Executive is working in Oman for last 8 years require bride from same caste.

Contact 95892831 Keralite Syrian Christian Parents seeking alliance from any Syrian Christian Denominations Graduated working girls preferably in Oman or UAE for their son MBA 29/175-born brought up in Muscat working in a reputed organization.

Contact 97226324 email: m4proposal@yahoo.com We are looking for a Muslim Girl for our son interested parents or daughter May. Contact 97664009 Male Nurse Keralite Christian RC Boy, Age 28 Years, Inviting Proposals. Contact: 93657535

D4

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5 Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com classifieds@timesofoman.com Tel.: 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 /431 / 456 / 461

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SITUATION WANTED VACANT

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE B.Com India. Languages : English, Hindi & Malayalam.

Contact 92954613 Accounting up to finalization, auditing & contact for tally ERP software Contact– 91720465 Pakistani male, 25 yrs, MBA Finance, 1.6 yrs exp in Accounts seeking placement in Accounts, Administration or Business Management. Contact 92651927 / 94250149

ACCOUNTANCY Want Chief Accountant have experience more than 10 years or have experience in logistics naifomeramer@gmail.com

ADVOCATE Law firm office at Shatti al Qurum looking for Indian legal advisor minimum 5 years experience in Oman . please Contact :99772277 sereen38@gmail.com

BEAUTICIAN Urgently required beautician, visa available. Contact 97172334

CATERING Wanted cook / Tandoor /Shawarma / maker. Contact 97939688 Experience cook for Omani family 1Nos. Contact 99228046 Email: oman518@gmail.com

DRAFTSMAN Architectural Draftsman desired candidate profile : minimum 3 years experience in detail design. Please send your CV to Email: info@pak2pak.com Contact 99196733

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Construction Company require Civil Engineer, minimum 2 years experience. Contact 93806556 Urgently required Irrigation Engineers, B.Tech (Agri/Irri) for supervision 5 yrs experience.

Contact- secons.engineers@gmail. com Contact 99244481

EDUCATION New International Schools in Oman going to begin in September 2015 seeks Principal, Early years & foundation stage and Cambridge primary teachers (Homeroom and co-teachers), Operations Manager, Admissions Manager & Parents Relationship Manager. Send CV and open letters of references to : gharsoman@gmail.com / marwa@amjad.com.kw Contact 0069555789779/ 00968 94665998 Maths, Physics, Chemistry Teacher urgently required to teach 2 students of 12th standard . Teacher’s experience preferred.

Contact 99360489

DESIGNER IT Wanted Graphic Designer skilled in Photoshop, coreldraw illustrator for advertising company. Contact 96440587 / 95338210

DRIVER Wanted driver. Contact 95112461 Light Driver required.

Must be currently present in Oman.

Salary 150 + 25 + accommodation.

Contact 99454425

DOMESTIC HELPER URGENTLY REQUIRED A full time Indian housemaid for an Omani family (local recruits preferred) please contact : 95164139, between 8 am – 5 pm Part time maid required in Al-Khuwair 25 on Sunday and Wednesday, call 97093525

ENGI./ELECT./TECH..

Urgently Required: 1) Planning Engineer minimum 5 years experience with primavera certificate and immediately join.

2) Electrical Engineer minimum 5 years experience in building construction and immediately join.

Apply, fax 00968–24605955, emails sbc@steelbuildingsllc.com, sbeoman@yahoo.com.

Required Foreman for interior decoration and construction business with minimum 2 years experience in Oman and with valid Oman driving license. Contact 98825806.

Email: strns1@gmail.com Urgently required for leading company, Land Surveyor, Electrical technician, MEP foreman, Camp Boss. Fax: 24478522 E-mail: gh1.careers@gmail.com Looking for Assistant Workshop Manager, Automobile Engineering with minimum 4 years experience in vehicle modification works.

Contact: 97441935 Wanted Auto Electrician with ITI or diploma qualification.

Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697 Mechanical Workers Required A well established pipeline construction company required some skilled workers of below mentioned categories; Fabricators, Fitters, Mechanical Helper . Please Contact at this numberurgently 96928351

Female with MBA finance, financial and tax professional four and half years of experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations. Contact- 99792457 Email: msparveen1@gmail.com

Wanted for immediate appointment linemen, Electrician, Duct fabricator, AC technicians, AC foreman HVAC, Procurement Asst. Engineer, minimum 2 years experience in Gulf for all posts. Apply with bio-data to hr_oman1@yahoo.com immediately.

Required qualified and IT teachers note: candidates for teaching should have minimum bachelor degree and having experience not less than 2 years. Please submit your CV through email till 29th of March 2015. For more information please contact with 24498423 Email: info@omrantraining.com

MEDICAL Wanted LAB Technician and female Nurse for a 25 years old poly clinic at Ibri candidates who have passed their prometric examination can also apply.

Contact 93828382 Email: zahrathalmahrami@gmail.com Urgently required an Orthodontist with MOH to work at a reputed Dental Center in Muscat.

Contact 968 99694723, Email : dr.bdohc@gmail.com Wanted female Nurse for Skin clinic in Muscat. Must have MOH license and NOC. Mail to clinicvacancy2015@gmail.com Urgently required Pharmacist.

Contact 94200385/ 95206905/ 97433142 Email: anitho@gmail.com A medical center requires a part time Pharmacist. Interested candidates contact 99705799

SALES / MARKETING Wanted Sales or Marketing Executive degree or master degree.

Interested can send C.V on hilat.tech@gmail.com or contact 98983951 / 98668697 Wanted Salesman with driving licence and car.

Gsm : 98805474 or email id: jobssales2015@gmail.com Required promoter for promoting Perfumes in shopping centre please.

Contact 95663682 or send CV atugt15@gmail.com Sales Executives needed for marble & granite company with minimum one year experience with driving license. Good looking Indians only.

Email: anas@kenzostone.com / nabil@kenzostone.com Looking for Qualified and experienced Sales Executives in industrial and mechanical field items & building materials. Please send your CV to slayhawk@yahoo.com

Indian Male, 25 yrs currently in Oman on visit looking for suitable vacancies in accounts, B.Com completed 1 yr experience.

Contact 92024380

SALES / MARKETING

Indian Male, MBA 2 yrs experience in Accounts, Admin & HR on visit visa. Contact 92045306

Required SALESMAN for LAMIS in Avenues Mall, Bousher. Must be young, active and have own transport. Send CV to rahibco@hotmail. com or call 96218662 Kitchen Sales Executive Required:Qualified candidates must have a minimum 2year work experience in GCC with valid Oman driving license.

Interested candidates please send your CV to abuqusaikitchen@gmail.com A leading group is looking for Sales Executives, min 2 years experience in Building materials & Electricals with driving license & release/ NOC. Email CV to alhajoil@omantel.net.om or Fax: 24701683 Required Sales & Marketing person for IT company with minimum 2 years experience in Oman and with valid Oman driving license. Contact 98825806. Email: strns1@gmail.com Required M/F Marketing person part time exp in event management with strong communication read / write and knowledge of music & dance industry for an Institute.

Mail: window4job@gmail.com Wanted Salesman having driving license for advertising company.

Contact 96440587 / 95338210 Required Commercial Assistant having minimum 3-5 years of FMCG experience for a leading FMCG company in Muscat. Having Omani driving license is preferred. Interested candidates may send their resume at sunnex3@gmail.com Looking for Experienced Omani/ Expat Sales Executive for Web Application Sales.

Email mctjobs@gmail.com Urgently required an excellent grade construction firm based in Muscat has immediate vacancy for Marketing Executive minimum 5 years experience with D/L. Email your CV to info@omannc.com

SITUATION WANTSIT. WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian Accounts / Audit assistant with 2 years of experience currently on a visit visa looking for suitable job openings. Contact 94677338, 97041086 Email: ajeeshkcy1989@gmail.com Indian Male, 27 yrs MBA (Fin), SAP, 4 Yrs Exp in Finance Seeking Suitable Job with a Reputed Firm Currently on Visit Visa # 92481230 A Fresh ACCA Affiliate, Pakistani male, 24 yrs, open for positions of Accounts, Audit and finance.

Contact : 94541539 email: wasiqnasir_3@yahoo.com ACCA finalist and BSc from Oxford Brookes University UK, having 18 months working experience, currently in Muscat on visit, seeking immediate and suitable position.

Contact : 95375282 22 years of experience in Multinational Companies & reputed firms in Financial Management, Project Management, Budgeting and Cost control, seeking a strategic Financial/Management Accounting role in a dynamic organization .

Contact : +971-506178139, Email.georg_vargis01@yahoo.com Indian male- B.Com/B.Ed/15 years Exp – 5 in Oman, seeks job in Accts/Sales/Logistics have NOC and Oman D/L with car.

Contact – 92919625/93511425/ 93424828; Email- seshadricpioman@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED ACCOUNT. & FINANCE Indian CA, male, having 12+ Years’ experience in the field of A/Cs, finance, auditing, consultancy and also knowledgeable in SAP B1,Tally ERP ,etc. Working as Finance Manager for last 2 years in Oman and have valid D/L of Oman. NOC available. PLZ contact: 98234761, Email:caraj700@gmail.com Indian male 24 yrs MBA marketing 21 days visit visa looking for marketing accounts and sales good communication skills. Contact 91379124 Email: rahmansahil3@gmail.com Indian male 28 years experience in Accounts & Admin with B.E, MBA finance seeks suitable placement with a reputed from on visit visa.

Contact 97409606 Email: mujtabaalam7@gmail.com Indian male MBA (fin & marketing) 9 years experience in business development, healthcare insuring fin & actng seeking suitable job on visit in Oman. Contact 98653962 Email: mdsaleem.r@gmail.com Asst Accountant BBM, 2 yrs experience seeking suitable vacancy in accounts, operation logistics etc. 1 year experience in hardware & networking as well. Contact 97623267 CA with 8 years Experience (6 in UAE & Oman) in A/cs, Finance & Audit. Contact: :98707434 / casmart007@gmail.com Bachelor degree in business (Accounting) from Majan College searching for job with D/L and 2 years exp . Contact 96132149 Finance Manager, CPA, with more than 15 yrs. of experience in GCC. Fully knowledgeable in Finance, General & Management Accounting .

NOC available. Contact 96209331 Indian 34 yrs B.Com CA Inter pass 12 yrs exp in Audit A/C, Finance on visit seeks suitable placement.

Contact 95585069 Accountant 25 years experience M.Com Accounts up to finalization 14 years in Oman. NOC release available. Contact 99640490 email: mathutb@gmail.com Indian male 26 years, MBA - finance and BSC (HONS) cooperation & banking with computer knowledge, currently on visit visa.

Contact 92636173 Email: deepakesl38@gmail.com Indian male with 7 years experience in customer service and banking operations looking for a suitable job right now on visit visa.

Contact 96169123 Sr. Accountant, M.Com, Indian male,13 yrs exp in MNC, FMCG & Automobile spare parts with valid Oman D/L looking for suitable position. NOC available-Mob: 92435323 Accounts part time works up to finalization, monthly report, balance sheet and finalization works.

Contact 96247295 Indian female 28 MBA (HR) B. Sc, 3+ years exp India & Oman HR/Admin looking for suitable placement.

Contact 95619537 Senior Accountant, 10 years experience in Oman on visit.

Contact 98897581.

Accountant 35 years B.COM with experience in Oman urgently seeking suitable job Accountant/ Ass. Admin / HR valid driving license & NOC. Contact + 968- 99176112 Email : aamirjaved24@hotmail.com Indian male 22 yrs B. Com Graduate 1 year exp in Accounts, currently on visit visa. Looking for suitable job.

Contact – 94341848 / Email – mohdhaji7272@gmail.com FCCA- Qualified from UK with 9 years of experience in Big 4 & Top 30 UK firms. Currently working as Manager Finance & Accounts for more than 2 years. NOC available, please contact 9259 3748 Male, total 17 years experience in India & Oman - India - 9 years & Oman - 8 years In the field of procurement, material controller and accountancy Local release available (Noc) Cont no.

91680124 , 98606546 American B International relations seeking position in finance HR, Administration or any suitable position. Contact 95560225 Email: sanyieha@gmail.com Looking for part time accounts job please contact:95573856 & 99183135.

Part time Accountant up to finalization looking for job after 5 pm location Qurum Al Khoudh. Contact 92917574 Accountant / Accounts Assistant with 7 years experience in Indian accounts like taxation, finalization of balance sheet, good knowledge in Tally ERP9 & MS Office, Currently on visit visa looking for immediate joining. Contact 94362799 Accountant Indian male B.COM / MBA 9 years experience in Oman up to finalization. NOC available, can join immediately. Contact 94134085/ muscatoman95@yahoo.com CA Finalist having big four experience of more than three years seeking suitable position currently on visit visa. Contact 94663269 Email: rizwan_ravian@yahoo.com 12 years Oman experienced Chief Accountant looking for suitable placement. Contact 97385562 Accountant: a well experienced Indian male, M.Com, more than 20 years experience in accounting field (GCC & India), looking for job as accountant or accounts manager in oman. presently working in India and ready to join immediately.

Contact :99087175 Indian male 26 years, with 4 years experience in accounts and administration looking for suitable placement. Contact 93008891 Indian male, B.Com, Accountant – 6yrs exp in Oman, NOC availableReady to join.contact: 98162671 ; email: prasanths3@gmail.com B.com doing CA Accounts/ office job male now working in Oman Noc, release available. Contact 92715465 Email: alsabathehm@gmail.com India Accountant: Male, M com, 7 Yrs experience in Accounts up to finalization, having knowledge of ERP, Tally, seeks suitable placement. Contact:93950138 Email: lijinrajan123@gmail.com

Indian male, 32 years, M. Com. 7 out of 9 years experience in Oman in Accounts/finance. Having NOC and valid Oman D/L. Contact 98277143, Email: anzarks@gmail.com

ADMIN/HR Indian male 26 years (MBA) (Operations & Marketing) 2 years experience in administration, operations and sales and marketing looking for suitable placement on visit visa.

Contact 97920125 Indian male 36 yrs having 12 yrs of experience in Oman in the following fields- HR & Admin, Purchase, Logistics, Operation. NOC available.

Ph: 93885680 Indian female with excellent communication skills, confident, dedicated to work and enthusiastic.

Knowledge about ms office. Has 6 years of experience in customer service, telecommunication, HR.Looking for immediate placement. Contact # 97348819 Indian male, B.Com, almost 2 yrs exp in Accounts & Admin on visit visa. Contact 98546162 HR Manager Marketing Manager, 12 yrs experience in India seeks immediate placement in Oman.

Contact 95881471, Email : pradeeprajtb@gmail.com Indian male, MBA, 8 yrs experience in HR with Oman D/L. NOC available.

Contact 98692434 Indian male MBA 12 years exp with international exposure seeking suitable job administrative, HR management, sales & marketing, currently in Salalah. Contact 91233648 / 94667857 mail: kumar79vimal@gmail.com Indian male, 13 yrs Gulf experience in Admin / front office.

Contact 97941050 Indian male MBA (HR & Marketing) 2 years experience seeking suitable job now on visit visa.

Contact 96483964 / 98757816 Indian male 32 yrs MBA.HR marketing, 6 yrs experience in FMGC products looking for a suitable job.

Contact 92954827 Over 14 years of Gulf experience in Admin /HR /Logistics, fluent in Arabic & English with D/L, looking for suitable position.

Contact 95824598 Indian male, well experienced in Administration supervisory, business development, front office Administrations & good computer skills seeking Supervisory / Secretarial / Front Office Administrative jobs.

Contact 92145973 Email: ubaidpt99@yahoo.com Indian male having 2+ years Oman experience seeking suitable job opportunity...currently working as HR coordinator in a reputed company in Oman. Contact : 93671437 alluarun777@gmail.com Noc available Indian female B.Com with excellent communication available for immediate joining full time or part time in HR & Admin coordination.

Contact 98460262 Young Indian male with 5 years Muscat experience in admin, purchase & Masters from UK seeks placement. Possess driving license.

Contact 94400671

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

D5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED IT

ADMIN/HR Indian male MBA 32 yrs having 10 yrs of exp seeking suitable placement in Admin/ HR/ Operations/ Coordination/ Logistics etc. Holding valid Oman D/L .Contact - 99054786

3G , 4G Welding lead man Indian male, 33 years, having 15 years experience in American company, UAE and India, seeking for suitable placement. Contact 92122468 Email: shaji11@gmail.com

ARCHI./ DRAUGHTSMAN Indian male, Autocad draughtman with 2 years of experience currently working in oman.seeking suitable placement.NOC available.#94123480 Email: fahadhundred@gmail.com Auotcad knows 3D,REVIT, MAX Ph : 97103168

CATERING Indian cook, Tandoori cook, male, 32 yrs, having 4 yrs of experience in Muscat in India, looking for a cook job in Hotel. Contact 93753523 / 98744307 / 92175119.

DRIVER Light Driver having own visa looking for job as driver. # 92303692 Driver heavy license looking for job with 7 years experience.

Contact 92073175 / 95606146 Looking for driving job with car 4x4. Contact 91331299 / 96157595 Bangladesh and Oman driver looking for job. Contact 98503237 Six years experience in Oman driver seeks suitable placement.

Contact 99437236 Bangladeshi Driver looking for job.

Contact 93567263 Looking for driving job.

Contact 98219182 Looking for driving job.

Contact 97311715 Light/ heavy duty, driver (GCC valid D/L for company) looking for job. Contact 99531802 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 96913836 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 96694393 Driver available in Ruwi.

Contact 97460056 Light driver with car available.

Contact 95520696 Light duty driver with 3 years experience in Oman +5 years in Saudi Arabia speaking Hindi Arabic English. Contact 96088707 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 92791678 Light driver looking for job.

Contact 91376612 LV Driver- 2 yrs Exp-know English- Contact 95292064

DOMESTIC HELPER Female cleaner for school/kg, job (overseas). Contact 95175192 House boy/ cleaner looking job overseas. Contact 95175192

DESIGNER

Indian- B.E.-MBA having 25 years Experience. Last 12 years in Oil & Gas Sector in Oman. Business Development /Sales. Looking opening in Oil Gas Trading/Drilling Service Companies as GM/ Country Manager/ Business Development Manager. Contact -94688594, gmbdm2015oilandgas@gmail.com; Indian Male 27years, 5yrs exp. as QA/QC Civil Engineer on visit visa seeking suitable placement.

Contact-94372711 M.Tech Civil (structure) with 3 yrs experience looking for a suitable job with reputed consultants or contracting companies.

Contact 93137035, Email : mdshahzar.khan@gmail.com BE Civil Engineer, 4 years experience, 2 years in Oman consultancy ROP site, good computer and communication skills, valid Oman driving license. Looking for planning engineer job. Call - 94034153 M.Tech Computer Science & Engineering, Indian female, Fresher, looking for suitable vacancy.

Contact 96103071 Email: norajobai@gmail.com

Looking Part time Job in HVACContact - 93198128 Quantity Surveyor (Civil Building) looking for Part time job Contact no:-94391712 E-mail addressinayathhussain@yahoo.com Generator maintenance in charge with 4 yrs experience with Cummins, caterpillar, kirloskar and voltas. Contact - email: shibinmundakkal@gmail.com Indian B.Tech Mechanical Engineer, 26 yrs, 4 yrs experience in HVAC/MEP. Contact 94669629, rajeevhpd15@yahoo.com Indian Female, 24, UK Graduate - MSc Digital Communication Network Engineering with B.Tech Electronics and Communication holding a Valid Omani Driving License, looking for suitable placement (Presently on Visit Visa). Contact No. : 95408113 Experienced female Electrical Engineer. Contact 93800906

Indian male 24 years, Mechanical Engineer,pdms.1 yr experience in pipeline,16years in oman seeking immediate placement Contact 95775742 M. Tech Civil (structure) with 3 years experience looking for a suitable job with reputed consultants or contracting companies. Contact – 93137035 Email – mdshahzar.khan@gmail.com Seeking job Electronics and Instrumentation Engineer (Indian) Indian male, Instrumentation Engineer having total 5 years of experience in electrical site execution, 1 year in Uae,presently in oman (visit visa) seeking suitable job Contact. 95690915 Email. Syam.andrews@gmail.Com Indian female, B.Tech biotechnology with strong computer skills and 2 years experience as associate research analyst (Media Monitoring) in Nasdaq Oman seeking growth oriented jobs. Contact 92044603 /918056169148 or angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

EDUCATION

Sudanese Electrical plants equipment Engineer with 3 years Diploma degree of Electrical Engineer have 5 years experience in building constructing industry operation installation maintenance asphalt crushers stone plants and automation systems. Contact 94549609

Indian Female (M.Com, B.ED) 2Yrs Experience in teaching seeks suitable placement . Specialization in ( Accounting, Business studies, Human resource management, Economics). Presently in Visit Visa Status. Contact:97342709, Email: sininair27@gmail.com

Indian Mechanical Engineer, 25 years with 5 years experience in fabrication (steel & pipe), machinery installation HVAC and Quality control in welding & mechanical working in Muscat and NOC available.

Contact 97270431 Email: akhilcnair1989@gmail.com

B. Sc Civil Engineer with 5 years experience and valid Omani driving license and PDO driving and safety license and OSHA safety license looking for suitable job.

Contact 92548097

Indian female M.SC, M.PHIL, BIO, Informatics 1 yr experience in college level seeks suitable placement in schools and colleges.

Contact 92237504

D.A.E Civil 4 years experience D/L Oman. Contact 96719649 Indian male 24 years B.Tech Mechanical Engineer with 2 years experience seeks suitable placement in reputed company.

Contact 99359887 / 94132536 Civil Engineer with MBA have 10 years exp in construction and roads projects management.

Contact 97046565 Omani Citizen BE Mechanical Engineer with 1 year Experience looking for job urgently. Contact: 95993315 email: eaz-s@hotmail.com Mechanical Engineer Indian male with one year experience also qualified in PDMS, Piping and NDT level two seeking suitable position currently in visit visa. Contact 98698682 Email: arundevchandran@gmail.com Electrical Engg, B.E Indian male 1 yr exp on visit visa. Contact 93700848 Email: quizzu.26@gmail.com Indian male 35 years B.Tech Mech.

Engineer with 13 yrs experience in power plant Indian looking for a suitable opening in Oman. Candidate available in Muscat until 02-4-15.

Contact 95911614 / 99844868 Indian Male 10 years experienced CIVIL ENGINEER having Omani driving license looking for suitable placement. GSM 94194399 (Shiblyrock@gmail.com)

Keralite Bachelor professional building designer with AutoCAD, 3D Max & Accounts. #96535497, email : bhaviwky90@gmail.com

Electrical Eng diploma 12 yrs exp HV /LV - UG & OHL having NOC with valid Oman D/L & Mazoon CEP. Contact 96274568

Electrical Eng. Degree (MEP) need suitable job of construction 12 yrs exp.

Email: mohd.ateeq.khan@gmail.com

Civil Engineer B Tech, Site Engineer Experienced, Drafting on Visit Visa Ph : 91642050

Indian male, 24 yrs, B.Tech (MECH) on visit, 1 year experience as PPC Engineer looking for suitable placement. Has HVAC, AutoCAD and CATIA designing skills.

Contact 98925685

Modular kitchen designer with 4 years Bahrain /Dubai experience plus 10 years AutoCAD, 3D, Photoshop& 20-20 Fusion.

Contact -96467673, cristobabu@gmail.com

ENGG. / TECHNICAL

IT Prof, MCA having 6+ yrs exp, seeks suitable position.

Contact 94543668

ENGG. / TECHNICAL

Mechanical Engineer (BE) done process piping, PDMS, Q.C welding N.D.T course fresher on visit visa looking for job. Contact 97359171 Email: sayyedz097@ymail.com

Mechanical Engineer, Gulf Exp in Design and Manufacturing Ph: 97097688

Project Engineer, civil engineer BSC, Building Construction 5 Years Exp in Oman fluent Arabic, English and good Hindi .Contact - 97858589

Diploma of Associate Civil Engineering, Diploma of AutoCad, having 3.5 yrs experience, 2 yrs experience of Oman in Building Construction, valid transferrable ID Card. # 94378581

D.A.E Civil Engineer Pakistani male, Diploma 3 years full experience 10 years, 6 yrs exp in Oman & Pakistan exp 4 years looking for good job in firm. Contact 92286164

Indian male, 26 yrs B-Tech (ECE) with MBA in Marketing / HR looking for a suitable placement. Currently on visit visa valid up to 30 January 2015. Contact 93754428, email : shijosirius709@gmail.com

Electrical Engineer looking for job NOC available. Contact 96347995 B/Tech B.E Civil nearly 3 years Indian male. Contact 93850875/95283064

Sudanese chemist resident, 3 years experience in chemical industry.

Contact 97399073 Sudanese Graduate with 3 years Diploma in Civil Engineering have 5 years experience in building construction industry materials, specification & testing.

Contact 96995670 Diploma in Architect 2.5 years experience in Oman having driving.

Contact 92967404 Electrical Engineer B.E Engineer, 6 years experience in Dubai, Bahrain with G.C.C. professional licenses holding GCC driving license.

Contact 98063081 Email: imran.engr08@gmail.com Civil Engineer with 12 years Experience Looking For Job. Contact 98162295 Indian Male, IT Support Engineer, 2 yrs in Oman & 5 yrs Indian experience. Contact 97311847 Aircraft Maintenance Technician with one year experience seeks suitable placement. Contact amaljohn2002@gmail.com B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile)&Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 , Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com Sudanese Mechanical Engineer 11 years exp in oil & gas industry.

Contact - 95928035 Electrical Engineer Indian male 29 years, having 5 years of experience in Industrial Automation & utility maintenance in India (MRF Tyres) seeking suitable placement.

Contact 92789995 Email: akhilabrahamlktr@gmail.com Telecom Engineer with 4.5 years Oman experience looking for a suitable opportunity, interested even in Marketing also. Possess valid Oman driving license. Contact 94145460 DAE (Civil) having 3.5 years Experience 2 years from Oman with driving licences, seeking for suitable position in Construction field NOC and release available . Contact 96968554 Email: mehranahmad26@yahoo.com 24 years Indian female diploma in computer science and engineering now on visit visa seek suitable placement. Contact 96314974/99107369

1 year experience in teaching all subject to KG classes, currently working as a teacher in Oman, seeking suitable placement, Family visa. Contact 92178304 / 99036256

HOSPITALITY Indian female (Aviation and hospitality management) with excellent communication skill, confident, dedicated to works and enthusiastic and 1 year experience in admin department looking for immediate placement .

Contact 93351256 email : hinakhan.hk88@gamil.com

IT Indian male 25 B.Tech (IT) Engineer 2.5 yrs exp in hardware networking.

Currently on visit visa looking for suitable job. Contact – 94359564 IT Project Manager (PMP) available for immediate joining. Total 15+ years exp & 12 years of IT experience in SAP & Project management.

Having working experience of UK, France, Germany, China, UAE, India, etc. Currently on Visit Visa.

Call 94300317 Website software developer Oman experience looking for job.

Contact 91781286 Email: hussainkhan201@gmail.com Indian male Graduate IT professional having 3+ years of experience in IT Support Engineer / Hardware & networking CCNA, MCITP, PHCE, looking for job on visit visa.

Contact 94647824 email id: azharpo@gmail.com Indian male, 25 years BSC, (Computer Science) 2 years experience in computer, hardware & networking looking for suitable placement presently on visit visa. Contact 93243372 Network Engineer, BSc Communications, 5 years exp, CCNA, VAS, Data Center, working now at Alcatel Lucent, visit visa. Contact 91268787

Hardware specialist B.Tech M.Tech electronics with 10 years experience seeks suitable opportunities in reputed organizations.

Contact 91289459 Email: shrn.shrf@gmail.com B.Tech IT Professional, Indian Male with 3 yrs of Exp. In System Admin, IT Support, Networking, Installing Active Directory, DHCP, DNS,RAS, configuring maintaining and managing servers, configuring cisco routers, Exp in handling SQL database, With Valid Driving Licence. Contact - 968 98863507

MEDICAL Female Dentist Indian, 28 years Dental Surgeon, 3 years of experience, Oman prometric passed with 64%, looking for a suitable placement in Muscat region.

Contact 91377681 Email: hashmisarwat@gmail.com Medical- Indian female, 27 yrs, masters in hospital administration, fellowship in HTA studied in a super specialty medical sciences and research center in India and done project in an established hospital in sultanate of Oman.

Contact 93200827, 91026506 Lab Technician, Civil (8yrs Gulf experience) looking for a suitable job (NOC available) Contact-93344378 Female pharmacist with 3 years experience and MOH license currently in Oman, CONTACT 92455124

MISCELLANEOUS MBA male having experience of production operation administration looking for job immediately joining.

Contact 94670691 Electrician, Plumber, Gulf exp looking for job. Contact 99531802 Logistics Officer, Experience in Store keeping. Contact : 99505934

MANAGER/ SUPERVISOR Indian male M.Tech MBA, 24 years experience working as Country Manager seeks employment.

Contact 92279972, NOC available.

Qualified Manager: (12+ yrs. Oman Exp.) Vast knowledge in A/c & Admin, Costing, Banking, Credit Control, Insurance, International Purchase/Logistics & Finance, With D/L looking for suitable position.

Contact 93826090 Email: jskanchan01@gmail.com BE. Mechanical Engineer with 2 years’ experience in Mechanical piping execution, Seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa, Contact no: 9843 9656, 9526 5739, Email: pavithomas@rediffmail.com Restaurant /Catering Manager – Operations with 21 years experience with 2 years in Saudi is available on visit. Contact 98894682 Indian female with nine years of experience in 5 Star hotels as Assistant Food & Beverage Manager looking for a suitable placement in a reputed Star hotel.

Contact: 91219787

PROJECTS Indian male, 4 years experience as Safety Officer with NEBOSH currently on visit visa.

Contact :99565910, E mail: yadavchandan287@gmail.com

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE

Indian male Graduate (BSc. IT) 25 years new on visit visa in Muscat.

1 year experience in Accounts looking for suitable position. # 95752827 Email: mhdfsrn@gmail.com

Indian male more than 10 years Gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase coordination with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available. Looking for suitable placement. Contact 99709336

Male Omani National, 27 years, holding Master in IT - Computer Sciences Engineering (India) and Master in Robotic Intelligency (Spain), looking for a suitable placement.

Contact: 99211549.

Indian female, well experienced in secretarial, administration, customer care & supervisory jobs.

5 years experience in Muscat.

Immediately available for joining.

Contact: 92139298

SECRETARIAL/OFFICE Indian female with 10 yrs of experience in HR/Banking/Operations seeks a suitable placement. Can be contacted on 98919015 or sherianne.coelho@gmail.com

SKILLED / UNSKILLED Welder, 3G, 6G, TIG, Exp in Fabrication , Gulf Exp Ph : 97103168 Care taker, Gulf Exp knows Hindi, Arabic Ph: 94238840

SALES / MARKETING Indian male MBA 7 years experience in Hospitality industry, operation, sales & marketing looking for suitable vacancy. Contact 92115860 Email vibin.py@gmail.com Marketing Executive + warehouse Manager male 24 yrs, 2 yrs exp with NOC available GCC driving license.

Looking for suitable placement opening. Contact - 97307863 Marketing Sales job Oman experience. Contact 91781286 Indian male, 25 yrs MBA, HR , having 1.5 yrs exp in sales & marketing on visit visa seeking for a suitable job. Contact 98796877 Pakistani male MBA marketing 2 years experience need job in sales marketing export admin management sector. Contact 94009052 15 years experience Indian male looking for job in storekeeper, counter sales having valid GCC driving license seeks suitable placement.

Contact 99052817 Indian Male having 7 yrs in experience in Oman Sales & Marketing Office Automation Printer, Copier, MFP, IT products & Stationery. Looking for Suitable Placement NOC Available Contact :9738474 Indian male 25 yrs M.B.A having More than 2 years experience in sales & marketing good communication skills Looking for a suitable job.

Contact 92152913 email: May4senthil@gmail.com Young female, having experience of working in Oman with expertise in the field of Event Management, Advertising, Marketing and Hotel Management. Currently on a visit visa. Seeking for a suitable Job. Contact 96153578 Indian M.27 B.Com, 5 yrs exp sales & customer relation, MS Word, MS Office, Excel on visit visa.

Contact 95612321 Email: jkadavil@gmail.com MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil and Malayalam, looking for suitable job.

Currently in Oman on visit visa.

Mob : +968-93730345 Indian male 23 with 2 years Oman experience looking for suitable placement in sales and marketing.

NOC available with valid D/L. Contact 96392009 Indian male, B.Com, 20 yrs experience in Sales & Marketing having UAE light D/L looking for suitable post. Contact +91 9946699062, email : sajim40@gmail.com 18 yrs Oman experience in building materials seeking suitable placement, NOC available Contact 93105775 Indian Male, 7 yrs experience in building materials trading having Oman D/L, immediate release available. Contact 98676713 Indian male, 45+ yrs, 20 yrs exp. in Sales Supervisor looking for sales / stores / cash or any suitable placement, can join immediately on visit visa. Contact 93086105 / 99016546

MISCELLANEOUS Omani Citizen Mechanical Engineer with 1 yr exp looking for job.

Contact:95993315 email:eaz-s@hotmail.com Accountant , Indian Male,24 years , 3+ years experience in Finance and Accounts, M.com Finance , Exposure in SAP & Tally ERP 9 , Good communication skill, on visit Visa.

Contact ( 95366407 ,96921443) IT support 6 yrs experience, male, Filipino Desktop Support, Backup administrator, Wireless Networking, server admin, laptop support, DB admin.

Contact +96896126502

D6

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION SIT. WANTED

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

MANPOWER

MISCELLANEOUS MBA (international business) with 2.5 years experience in sales and also experience in vehicle spare parts (in-charge) looking for a suitable job presently on visit visa. Contact 93539456, 95765868, E mail: mathewsantony936@gmail.com British Beauty Therapist Looking for suitable position Mob: 97175240 INDIAN FEMALE ,Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 2 and half years experience in Admin/ Accounts and Office coordinator looking for job in Field of Travel/Office Management. Contact -92459686/ 92816803, Emailkrupa_patel1984@yahoo.com Part Time Accounting Job Complete Data Entry, Reporting and Finalization. Any Time Available.

Location Ruwi to Bharka. Please Contact- +968-92049215 Email:- aiafe.oman@gmail.com Indian female, 24yrs, M.Com (Accounts) having 3 yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeks suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available. Contact: 99654913 Indian female B.Com Graduate, 4yrs experience in accounts, admin dept looking for placement in any field Contact: 98928220 Sudanese/Bsc IT/ 2 years experience/ excellent English-Arabic speaking/ Omani driving license/ Contact: 96387227, henrykarrar@gmail.com Indian Female, B.tech bio-technology graduate. Knowledgeable in food processing techniques, having 2 yrs experieince as associate research analyst(media monitoring)in Nasdaq Omx, seeking for growth oriented job.

Contact 92044603, angeline.babithac@gmail.com.

Available construction workers, hospital staff with Oman parametric, housemaids Indian, Uganda.

Contact 9629417/98408488 Email: alkubratrading@gmail.com

SITUATION WANTED MISCELLANEOUS Lab Chemist 10 yrs experience in gas and crude oil analysis Master degree in chemistry on visit visa 94403242

Indian male, 15 years experience in managing department stores, in Karnataka, India, looking for placement.# 93086105 or 99016546

Indian male 23 years B.Com completed fresher with fluency in English, Hindi and Telugu looking for suitable job . Currently in Oman on visit visa. Contact 96098174 / 98912870

Indian male, graduate with 7 years experience in hospitality industry, sales & marketing .M.B.A in human resource management. #92115860

AutoCAD draughtsman temporary available at the month of April (AR+ST+PL+HVAC) Contact – 91620107 24 year Indian Chartered Accountant male with 3yrs of experience is seeking suitable placement in Muscat, currently on visit visa & ready to join immediately. Kindly contact him on 98201476 or email at lokeshkaluri@gmail.com

CAT (UK) , ACCA (UK) , 3 year experience. (including one year experience in EY world 3rd largest audit firm) looking for reputed company for a job of Internal Audit, Finance and Accounting.

Contact no: 00923008833525

Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available. Capable to handle accounts up to finalization.

Contact 9602 3965.

Female, MSc Chemistry, BEd, with 1.5yrs of experience as research officer in a chemical manufacturing company in India.

Ph: 95243584

Indian female 25 years MBA finance currently on visit visa seeks immediate placement.

Contact: +(968) 9843 0089, +(968) 97851940

Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering, 3.5 year experience as a Safety Advisor in Carillion Alawi 27 year Indian male also having valid Omani driving license, looking for job Email:govindansreejit@gmail.com, Contact 968 9808527, 96176872

Marketing Manager Indian male 11 years local market experience with Oman driving license and NOC looking for suitable placement.

Contact 93564959 Email: drmbuz@gmail.com

Experienced, male 25, hardworking, looking for permanent job in Accounting, Finance and Auditing field, ACCA UK and B.Sc in applied accounting (OBU-UK). 2-years of practical experience with an audit firm in Pakistan. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm:+968-95459936 Accountant , Indian Male,24 years , 3+ years experience in Finance and Accounts, M.com Finance , Exposure in SAP & Tally ERP 9 , Good communication skill, on visit Visa. Contact 95366407 B.Tech Mechanical Engineer (Automobile) & Diploma in QC with 2yrs experience in oil & gas company seek suitable placement job currently on Visit Visa. Contact no.96071081, 99214308 Email: rahulvarikkat@gmail.com 37 years Indian Male with 10 years PDO experience Store Keeper seeking suitable placement.

Contact: 95849804 Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering, Completed IOSH, have PDO Passport.3.5 year experience as a Safety Advisor in Carillion Alawi 27 year Indian male also having valid Omani driving license, looking for job. Email:govindansreejit@ gmail.com Contact: 9689808527,96896176872 Indian female, 24yrs, M.COM (Accounts) having 3yrs experience in Accounts, HR, Administration, Customer Service. Good Computer Proficiency seeking Suitable Position. Visa Transfer/NOC Available.

Contact: 99654913 Job seeker with ten years of experience in management, banking, and marketing. Muscat, mobile number: 91262609

Canadian Manpower Co. Recruiting Construction, Hotel, Medical, Gas & Oil Staffs - 2 years contract, work visa, tickets, accommodation.

Free recruitment. Please send CV to margholdingoman@yahoo.com, www.margholdingimmigration.com, 93392630

Indian, Male 43, CA/ISA, Experience in Retail, NBFC, Logistics, Banking, Automobile, Investment and facility Management, seeking for a change.

Valid D/L. Release available.

Contact: aurosun@gmail.com AutoCAD draughtsman temporary available at the month of April (AR+ST+PL+HVAC).

Contact – 91620107 Computer Teacher, MCA in Al Ghubra. Contact : 94231633 Indian Male, 58 years, Rich Oman experience in Multifunctional Management, Administration, Business Development, Purchase & Operations, seeking suitable Manager/Supervisory Position.Visa transfer/ NOC Available. GSM: 95036410 MCA, MBA, CCNA, MCSE, Indian male with 10 years of experience, holding Oman driving license on visit visa seeks any suitable placement. Contact 92716116 / 91266535 Email: sijuayur@gmail.com South African Teacher – male – Teaching Diploma , B.A. (Hons), B. Admin (Hons ). 18 years experience – seeking a primary teaching post – grades 4 to 7 (8 to 12 years). Can teach all subjects at this level. On 30 day visitors visa. # 93341047.

E- mail nadgov@gmail.com Indian male, 14 yrs Experience in Maintenance & Supervisor in hotel (Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber). Contact : 95253640 Accountant, Indian male 24 yrs, 2 years successful experience in Oman with Oman Driving License .

NOC Available. Seek a suitable opportunity. GSM : 9340 9315 Indian male Executive secretary having vast experience in admin, logistics & procurement well versed with computer seek suitable placement. Contact : 99514286

Tunisian women looking for job, knows english, frensh, Italian and arabic. Contact: 91171838 7 Years successful experience.

ACCOUNTANT, Indian male, 29 years. Presently working in Oman as a Senior Accountant with oman Driving license seek suitable opportunity. GSM: 97705854 Indian Male, 22 years, B.com graduate, Knowledge of Tally ERP9, MS Excel & MS word.Currently in Oman on visit visa, looking for suitable placement. # : 99894250 email: fouzishaque@gmail.com Indian, Male, 43 years, Chartered Accountant, 18+ years of experience, looking for a change. Valid Driving License. Release available.

Contact: aurosun@gmail.com Australian Network Engineer, with 4 years exp, BE in Telecom MS in Network Sys worked as a Network/WiMax Eng well versed with Cisco devices, available on contact 92606921 Email: akalu987@gmail.com Sri Lankan, female, 25 years, Graduate in Management, possessing 6 years experience in banking, financial, administration and risk management.

Currently on a visit visa seeks suitable immediate placement.

Contact 93462521. wathsala.perera1@yahoo.com Corporate Communication Professional, smart, quality English writing, double Masters, Oman exp in Corporate, Internal &Marketing Communication, CSR Programs, PRs, Ads, Events, Campaigns, Customer Relations. Immediately Available, Release.

Contact 91229392 Manager-Corporate Communications, pleasing personality, excellent English, Masters-Journalism, Mass Communication, Finance, expert in writing & publishing press releases, advertisements, website content, speeches, CSR, promotions, events. Immediate joining, NOC. Contact 91229392 Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts , looking for suitable position.

Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field. Looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com 30 years Indian male with hotel management degree, 02 years experience in F&B service at five star hotel in Dubai and 05 years in American 6 star cruiseliner as Butler . Currently in Muscat on visit visa. Contact 91075704 Senior Accountant Indian Male with 13 Year of Experience (7 years in Oman) in Accounts & Finance having valid Omani Driving License with NOC Available.

Looking for suitable job.

Contact 96001918

SITUATION WANTED SIT. WANTED Indian Male, 27, Mechanical Engineer. HND, with exp. as Project coordinator in U.A.E, Valid GCC D/L, currently on visit, looking for a suitable position. Contact 97070427 Indian female (B.A. B.ed) seeks suitable placement as fresher primary teacher.(Specialization in social studies, currently pursuing M.A in English).Presently in family visa status. Contact:99713864.

Email:poojaavn@yahoo.com 28 year Indian male Art specialist with 7.5 yrs of experience in Healthcare industries in AR analyst (US Based Project - M.BA., Finance) seeking suitable placement. Contact +91 9841906431, E-mail: aru1986k@gmail.com

B.tech Mechanical Engineer : Keralite bachelor with B. Tech looking for job in Oman with three year of experience ,on Visiting Visa. Contact no.0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com Indian Male more than 10 years gulf experience in Office / Sales Coordinator, Admin (employees visa processes), Secretarial and purchase with good computer skills. Having Driving license and NOC available.

Looking for suitable placement.

Contact 99709336 Indian male, 14 years Experience in maintenance & Supervisor in hotel ( Electrical, Ac Mechanical & Plumber ) mob : 95 25 36 40

Indian male, 25 years, now on visit visa in Muscat. One year experience in accounts, looking for suitable position. Contact:95752827, Email id: mhdfsrn@gmail.com

27 years, Indian optometrist , female , 3years experience looking for suitable placement in Muscat. Contact : 92066532 mail: aradhanaarun88@gmail.com

Looking for job Tunisian Bachelor with experience 5 years in Network/IT. Cont.:91368102

ACCA+2.5 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance/Internal Audit. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and PeachTree. Gsm: 91717234 Email: xhoaib101@hotmail.com,

CIVIL Autocad Draughtsman Looking for part time job. #95218737 Indian Teacher Female with two years experience seeks suitable placement in Indian or Omani Schools currently on visit visa please contact 99436826. Email id :- ineshdsouza31@gmail.com Diploma in Fire and Safety Engineering. Have 3.5 years of experience as an Safety Advisor.

Having a valid Omani driving license is looking for job. For further information please contact me at 96896176872, 9689808527.

Indian male 28yr age having 6 years Gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact: 97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian Female, 24 yrs MS. Software Engg. Currently on family visa, 1 year experience in SAP WM & IT seeks suitable placement.

Contact: 95490105 MBA fresher, with fluency in English, Arabic, Hindi, Tamil & Malayalam, looking for suitable job.

Currently in Oman on visit visa.

Mob : +968-93730345

Civil draughtsman expecting part time job.(civil infrastructure) and BBS. Contact :95914642 Indian Male 22 years, B.Com looking for suitable placement.

Contact no. - 99894520 email- fouzishaque@gmail.com Planning Engineer 7 years of Experience in project planning and control in oil and gas, PDO & QP Approved Planner,PRIMAVERA6,B.Tech in Mechanical engineering from CUSAT Contactullasprabhakaran@yahoo.co.in, ph-00974 70230223 Sales manager (be-mech/mba) in oman since-2005; (omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in marketing and sales or, bdm profile, contact-96040977, kvmssn@gmail.Com B.tech Mechanical Engineer, Keralite bachelor with B.tech looking for job in oman with a year of experience on Visiting Visa.

Contact no.-0096891296354, Email-manurpr88@gmail.com

Part- Time Accountant, well versed with all accounting, Finalization, Budgeting available.

Contact : 98803439 Sr. Sales Manager (BE/MBA) 9 yrs in Oman; (GCC/omn-d/l); seeking immediate replacement in mktg, sales or, bdm profile, # 96040977, kvmssn@gmail.com Indian male total 17 yrs exp in field of procurement, inventory, controlling & accountancy. Local release available, seeking suitable placement. # 91680124 / 98606546 Indian female, B.Com. knowledge of Ms .Office & Tally, 4yrs experience in A/Cing & admin dept .looking for good placement in any field. Contact.98928220 ACCA-UK, B.Sc (OBU-UK) having 2.8 years of experience in Accounts, Bookeeping and Audit.

Looking for job in Accounts/Finance department. Also worked on Oracle R12, Tally, Quick Books and Peach Tree. Email: AliRiazMughal@Outlook.com, Gsm: +968-95459936 Indian Male 28yr age having 6year gulf+ Indian experience in HR field, looking for suitable placement. Contact:97914340, Email: rajkv3086@gmail.com Indian male, 11 years exp.

In accounting, knowledge in tally also. Looking for a part time job.

Contact . 98983122 Female Executive Assistant/Executive Secretary with 27+ experience, worked with top management/Board in financial services with shorthand skills & Omani driving license, seeks suitable placement. Call 95941515 Senior Accounts Professional, Indian Male, 35 years, M.Com, MBA (Fin) 8 years in Oman, with valid Oman DL and NOC available.

Capable to handle accounts up to finalization. Contact 9602 3965.

Indian female, Graduate, Certified in IATA, with 8 months experience in Travel and 2 and half years experience in Operations and HR looking for job in Field of Travel/ Office Management. Contact -92816803/ 92459686. Emailvijetadevilishangel@gmail.com

W E D N E S DAY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

D7

DAILY GUIDE SITUATION WANTED CARGO

Dolphin Watch, Dhow Cruise with Buffet, & Land Tours Al- Ainain Marine Tours Contact- 98029602, 92808636

TOURS

TOURS

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

RENT A CAR

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

D8

W E D N E S D AY, M A R C H 2 5, 2 0 1 5

DAILY GUIDE

Email: dailyguide@timesofoman.com Tel. 24726666 Ext: 413 / 430 431 / 456 / 461 Fax: 24812624

SITUATION WANTSERVICES

WEBSITE

SITUATION WANTED SERVICES

DRIVING

COMPUTER

CLASSES

TRANSPORTATION TRANSPORTATION

WEB, ERP and Business Intelligence (BI) creation and management at rock bottom price.

Contact: http//webviewoman

School Transportation : Contact 96581664

BUSINESS Transportation. Contact 98505294

Pick & Drop any time.

Contact 97014786

*Classified Advertisement space booking with text, should be done till 12.00 noon for next day’s publication. * Subject to space availability

Transportation. Contact 99664703 Picking and drop. Contact 96743215 Transportation. Contact 98518979 Transport to ISWK. Contact 93172589

CHANGE OF NAME

GOOD NEWS Tile/marble/granite cutting, skirting & polishing please contact 94052713,99885638.

I, Prashanth Muraleedharan (holder of indian passport no. F 7492498) son of P. V. Muraleedharan having permanent residence in Poovathumkadavil House, Opp. Vydyuthi Bhavan, Kottappuram, Poothole P.O., Thrissur - 680004 and presently residing in P.O. Box 485, P.C. 112, Ruwi - Sultanate of Oman intend to change my name from Prasanth Muraleedharan to Prashanth Muraleedharan for all practical purpose.

Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P.Box No. 1727, Postal Code 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

I Vijay Sinh Ravji Barad (holder of Indian passport No. F 159470) Son of Ravji Ramsangji Darad having permanent residence in Mandvi - Kutch Gujarat - 370465 (complete postal address in India) and presently residing in Al Sabbagh Trd. Co. LLC, Ruwi - Muscat (complete postal address in Oman) intend to change my name from Vijaysinh Ravji Barad (old name) to Vijay Sinh Ravji Darad (new name) for all practical purpose.

Any objection towards my name change may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P. Box No. 1727, Postal code 112, Ruwi , Sultanate of Oman.

We, Thaikkaden Lonappan Paulson (name of father as per the passport, holder of Indian passport No . L 3319949 and Lilly Edakalathur Jose (name of the mother, holder of Indian passport No. K0872830) having permanent address in Thaikkaden House, Kuranchery, Minaloor, P.O Trichur, Kerala (complete portal address in India) and presently residing at the following address in Ghubra, PB No. 2033 PC No. 112, Sultanate of Oman, hereby solemnly affirm and declare to change the name of our child master Leo Paul (name as per present passport), holder of Indian passport No. J 2024919 date of issue 02/04/2010 issued at Muscat. The name of our child will be henceforth known as Leo Paul Thaikkaden (new name) for all purposes. Any objection towards change of name of our minor child may please be communicated to Embassy of India , Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, PB No. 1727, PC 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

We, Sukumara Pillay Suresh Kumar (name of father as per the passport holder of Indian passport No . J 3489932 and Sreelatha Sureshkumar (name of mother as per passport, holder of Indian passport No. J 4217600) having permanent address in Madhavi Nilayam, Peringala P.O Kayamkulam, Alappuzha Dist, Kerala, and Kadoor House, Haripad , Kanichanalloor, Muttom PO, Alappuzha, Kerala 690511 (complete portal address in India) and presently residing at the following address in Muscat, PB No. 1633 PC No. 114, Sultanate of Oman, hereby solemnly affirm and declare to change the name of our child Miss Amritha Sureshkumar Pillai (name as per present passport), holder of Indian passport No. J 7417029 date of issue 05/11/2011 issued at Muscat. The name of our child will be henceforth known as Amritha Suresh Kumar (new name) for all purposes.

Any objection towards change of name of our minor child may please be communicated to Embassy of India, Muscat, Diplomatic Quarters, Al Khuwair, P. B No. 1727, PC 112, Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman.

GUARANTEED CLEANING: Carpet & sofa shampooing, Contact 99314807/24792998

Taimour Ayurvedic Clinic, Ruwi offers genuine & effective treatment for back pain, paralysis, cervical and lumbar spondylitis, osteoarthritis, joint pains, sinusitis, migraine, allergic problems, varicose vein and all other health related problems. Kerala massage and rejuvenation package available. For details please contact: 92197920/ 24799689 Ayurvedic treatment for joint pain, backache, paralysis massage, steam bath, obesity, spondylitis IDEAL , CARE Ayurvedic Clinic 18 November street, Azaiba. Contact 99639695 / 99117987 Ayurvedic treatment for backache, paralysis, arthritis etc & massage, All Season (Vaidyaratnam). Contact 24475280 / 95371554 / 92504980 , www.siddhayur.com FREE INFORMATION ABOUT ISLAM. If you would like to know more about Islam, please call: 99425598, 96050000, 99353988, 99253818, 99341395, and 99379133.

For ladies: 99415818, 99321360, 99730723 Orvisit: www.islamfact.com

FOR HIRE Hire Generators, Air conditioners.

Contact 98927220

MARBLE CRYSTALLIZATION restore the original shine of your marble. Contact 24793614/ 99314807 Ocean trading is Professional in auto A/C repairing since 35 years serving with high quality & best price.24817426 & 95206751 Pest Control Treatments, Termites, Cockroaches, Bedbugs. Contact Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99344723 House shifting. Contact 99708138 Door to Door Computers repair specialist laptop software Website cartridges. Contact 99199376 Cheapest prices all types window, curtains and Blinds.

Contact 99539521 Carpet & sofa shampooing. Ocean Centre LLC. Contact 99884591 / 92682970 Cleaning services, carpet & sofa shampooing, marble restoration (grinding) and polishing, pest control, fogging service. Contact 99448057, 95401996 Cheapest Prices, all types window, curtains and blind.

Contact 99539521 Computer service/ AMC/ Networking. Contact 91339882

A/C maintenance split A/C servicing. RO. 10 only. Contact 94217681/ 99210141

GULF INTERNATIONAL LLC. all kind of pest control.

Contact 92326955

Marble Restoration, Mosaic tiles polishing, carpet shampooing, maintenance. Contact ABU QABAS- 99320217 /24788722

House shifting packing.

Contact 99657644, 98518013

We offer you the business services maintenance of buildings and villas for paint and carpentry and decoration works and installation of material awater Broof and cleaning services building management and leasing of real estate . Contact 99070093 Water proofing ABUQABASContact 99320217/24788722 Carpet Shampoo, marble & tile polishing, pest control & anti-termite treatment, general cleaning painting, Plumbing, Electrical, shifting. Contact Mundhir Al-Rizaiqi trading. L.L.C. # 24810137, 99450130

AC service repair and maintenance.

Contact 95356877 Pest control & cleaning services professionals in pest control service bedbugs treatment, rodent, treatment, snake treatment and termite treatment, pre and post construction. Contact 93098450, 96408964, fax : 24472116

FOR HIRE Running truck wash for rent in Ouhi Sunia Sohar. Serious people can. Contact on 97864747 50 seater bus with PDO specification for rent or lease.

Contact 99839898