01 Feb 2012

CR IP TI ON BS SU

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

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7‘Influential 10 people’ 37 backing 20 Amir: Kuwait a state of law • Adailiya incidents condemned

Max 21º Min 13º High Tide 06:08 & 17:41 Low Tide 10:48

By B Izzak conspiracy theories

Back to time of jahiliyya?

By Badrya Darwish

badrya_d@kuwaittimes.net

W

hat is happening in Kuwait? The good question is: What is happening to Kuwait? I feel now like I am living in a country without a government and no law - a lawless country. This is very scary for the society. Hatred, sectarianism and racism are spreading everywhere but to reach to violence is a bit too much.

The best example of what I mean is illustrated by the incident in Adailiya two nights before the set date for elections - Feb 2.

In his election rally, candidate Al-Juwaihel started insulting the Mutairi tribe, as if his gathering was only organized to insult the whole tribe. How does this benefit the Kuwaiti nation? What kind of an agenda is this for a candidate? What right does Juwaihel have to insult a tribe, be it any tribe? Originally all of us in Kuwait come from tribes. The whole of the Arabian peninsula is tribal.

So what is his point then?

Nobody has the right to stand up in a public place and insinuate hatred and use foul language against any tribe or sect of society be it Shiite, Sunni or tribal. It is all rejected. This is a crime. So is this man worth to be a candidate for the Kuwaiti parliament? Juwaihel, of course, acted in an ignorant way and he should pay for his mistake, but who will punish him?

In a proper advanced country, Juwaihel should stand in court and be responsible for his crime. He should be charged for defamation of the Al-Mutairi tribe. He should be immediately taken off the electoral list. But with all respect to the Mutairis, their action did not suit a modern country and its laws. What happened in Adailiya should have been left to the government to handle Juwaihel and his likes.

Where was the government represented by the Ministry of Interior when an angry crowd invaded Adailiya, came to Juwaihel’s electoral headquarters and burnt it down? The absence of law here was the bigger crime than both Juwaihel and the angry crowd. We are not naive to believe that the Ministry of Interior did not know that these people were coming in cars to Adailiya or marching to his tent. It is even more upsetting and scary for Kuwait if you tell me that the ministry did not know. If they knew and ignored it, it is also as dangerous as the first act.

How do you want all of us Kuwaitis or expats to feel safe in Kuwait if this is how the government responds to crime? Tomorrow anybody who has a vendetta against anybody will feel free and encouraged to walk into anybody’s house or diwaniya and take the law in his hands.

This is implementing the law at its best. Great! Well done! Tomorrow all of us can go and buy our own Kalashnikovs to protect ourselves because we live in a lawless country and cannot depend on our police. In any country if a man commits a murder and the other family burns his house or office, then what is the role of the police, the courts and judges? We can cancel all and live like in the past, in the Stone Ages or the age of ignorance (or jahiliyya, as we say in Islam).

It is very sad to see Kuwait falling victim to such heinous acts.

KUWAIT: Supporters of opposition parliament candidates wave national flags during a political rally yesterday. — AFP

KUWAIT: Former prominent opposition MP Mussallam Al-Barrak yesterday launched a scathing attack against the government and some influential people he did not name for backing candidate Mohammad Al-Juwaihel who is accused of insulting the Mutairi tribe. Speaking before a large gathering estimated at more than 10,000 who braved heavy rain, Barrak said an influential person recently gave Juwaihel KD 800,000 and charged a former senior official of also backing him. Barrak said that “it makes no difference to us if Juwaihel stays in the election race or not, all we want is that a decision should be issued against him otherwise we will resort to action”.

Barrak also displayed a number plate of a vehicle, saying it belongs to a person who “teaches Juwaihel what to say”. He also said that the interior minister knows who is financing Juwaihel and his partner Nabeel Al-Fadl and the prime minister must act. The former lawmaker said that the Kuwaiti people will not allow anyone to undermine the status of any tribe or section of the society. An exhausted Barrak was later taken to hospital.

A large number of former MPs, candidates and activists addressed the gathering which was called to protest the insults made by Juwaihel against the Mutairi tribe, prompting thousands of tribesmen to retaliate by burning his election tent. Several speakers called on the Al-Sabah ruling family to end their internal disputes or Continued on Page 13

Syria troops push back rebels, UN fight looms BEIRUT: Syrian troops crushed pockets of rebel soldiers yesterday on the outskirts of Damascus as Western diplomats took up a UN draft resolution demanding President Bashar Assad halt the violence and yield power. The UN Security Council met yesterday to discuss the draft, backed by Western and Arab diplomats.

But Russia, one of Assad’s strongest backers, has signaled it would veto action against Damascus. “The Western draft Security Council resolution on Syria does not lead to a search for compromise,” Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov wrote yesterday on Twitter. “Pushing this resolution is a path to civil war.”

Russia has stood by Assad as he tries to crush an uprising that began nearly 11

months ago. In October, Moscow vetoed the first Security Council attempt to condemn Syria’s crackdown and has shown little sign of budging in its opposition.

Moscow’s stance is motivated in part by its strategic and defense ties, including weapons sales, with Syria. Russia also rejects what it sees as a world order dominated by the US. The fallout from the conflict in Libya is a factor, as well.

Russia fears the new measure could open the door to eventual military intervention, the way an Arab-backed UN resolution led to NATO airstrikes in Libya.

The diplomatic showdown came as Syrian government forces took back control of the eastern suburbs of the capital, Damascus, after rebel soldiers briefly Continued on Page 13

RASTAN, Syria: Syrian rebels take their position behind a wall as they fire their guns during a battle with the Syrian government forces in Homs province yesterday. — AP

MALKIYA, Bahrain: Anti-government protesters face off with riot police during clashes yesterday. — AP

Bahraini detainees go on hunger strike MANAMA: Fourteen jailed opposition figures in Bahrain have gone on hunger strike ahead of the Feb 14 anniversary of a failed pro-democracy uprising, activists said yesterday, and a government official said he favoured releasing some of the men. “They demand an end to the political crackdown.

They are protesting against the unfair trial they faced and they want the release of all prisoners of conscience,” said Mohammed Al-Mascati, head of the Bahrain Youth Society for Human Rights. Mascati and several dozen other activists gathered at the opposition Waad party building in Manama to stage their own hunger strike in sympathy with the opposition leaders, who were prominent during four weeks of protests inspired by revolts against rulers in Tunisia and Egypt.

Bahrain imposed martial law in March

last year and invited in troops from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to help crush the month-old uprising. The government said the island’s majority Shiites had coordinated the protests with Iran for sectarian reasons, an accusation the opposition denied. The 14, who activists said began their hunger strike on Sunday, were among 21 politicians, rights activists and bloggers tried in a military court on charges including “forming a terrorist group to change the constitution and its monarchical system” and organising protests.

Eight were sentenced to life imprisonment.

Seven are abroad or in hiding.

Activists said the hunger strikers included rights activist Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, AlHaq opposition party leader Hassan Mushaimaa and Ibrahim Sharif, a Continued on Page 13

in the

news Iran launches Spanish channel

Islam critic backs out of West Point event

Pinkberry cofounder pleads not guilty

TEHRAN: President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad yesterday officially launched Iran’s latest foreign-language news channel, a 24-hour satellite broadcaster aimed at Spanish speakers worldwide. “Viva la Paz! Viva el Pueblo! Viva Espana, Viva America Latina!” he said in Spanish at the end of a televised speech to dignitaries attending the launch ceremony in Tehran. The statefunded channel, HispanTV, has already been test-broadcasting since midNovember from its offices in Tehran, using a staff of Iranian, Spanish and Latin American journalists. HispanTV’s website said it aims “to reach millions of people in Latin America, the United States and Europe”. It pledged “transparency” as it sought to present “the cultural reality of Iran, the Middle East and Latin America”. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez sent a message hailing HispanTV’s launch that was read out at yesterday’s ceremony. The new Spanish channel is to offer news, films, documentaries and series, Iranian state television said. It joins another Iranian channel, Press TV, which broadcasts in English. Iran also finances an Arabic channel, Al-Alam, and three other outlets that part of the time offer programs in Turkish, French and Urdu.

WEST POINT, New York: A retired US lieutenant general who made comments denigrating Islam withdrew Monday from speaking at a West Point prayer breakfast after a veterans’ advocacy group asked the Army chief of staff to rescind the invitation. VoteVets.org told Gen Raymond Odierno in a letter that allowing retired Lt Gen William G Boykin to speak at the US Military Academy next week would be contrary to Army values and disrespectful to Muslim cadets. Late Monday afternoon, West Point issued a brief statement saying Boykin had decided to withdraw speaking at the Feb 8 event and that another speaker would be lined up in his place. Boykin, a former senior military intelligence officer, had been criticized for speeches he made at evangelical Christian churches beginning in Jan 2002. He said that America’s enemy was Satan, that God had put President George W Bush in the White House and that one Muslim Somali warlord was an idol-worshipper. Boykin later issued a written statement apologizing and said he didn’t mean to insult Islam. But VoteVets.org said that Boykin has continued to make denigrating comments about Islam since his 2007 retirement.

LOS ANGELES: A co-founder of the popular frozen yogurt chain Pinkberry has pleaded not guilty to beating a homeless man with a tyre iron in Los Angeles. City News Service says 47-year-old Young Lee was arraigned Monday in the June 15 beating that left a homeless man with a broken forearm and cuts to his head. The terms of Lee’s $60,000 bail were modified so he can travel to his native Korea later this month. He must surrender his passport when he returns to court March 5 for a preliminary hearing.

Prosecutors allege that Lee and a companion confronted the homeless man because Lee thought the transient had disrespected him by exposing a sexually explicit tattoo. Lee faces up to seven years in prison if convicted. Young was trained at Parson The New School for Design in New York, and he was instrumental in creating the company’s sleek, modern architecture style which helped attract celebrities and hipsters alike to its shops. A representative for Pinkberry, which has over 170 locations around the world, could not be reached for comment on Monday.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

LOCAL

Candidates trade blames before NA polling day Focus on corruption, vote-buying KUWAIT: Fighting corruption and overcoming political infighting headlined topics discussed by candidates during final public speeches held before election day. A Third Constituency candidate blamed Ahmad AlSaadoun and former minister Ahmad AlFahad Al-Sabah of creating political tensions in Kuwait. During a seminar held entitled ‘The Two Ahmads,’ candidate Abdullah AlMayouf argued that Al-Saadoun joined hands with Al-Fahad to create tensions that eventually led to the Parliament’s dissolution to help the former reclaim the Parliament Speaker’s post.

Al-Saadoun, a Third Constituency candidate with several decades of parliamentary experience, was also attacked by another candidate who claimed possession of documents to prove his alleged involvement in corruption. Although she did not name him, Second Constituency candidate and former MP Dr Salwa Al-Jassar made a clear reference to Al-Saadoun when she hinted that “the opposition bloc leader contesting from Third Constituency” intervened and his son won a tender for a KD 60 million project to

build tennis courts in South Surra. Al-Jassar also warned against “attempts made by some political groups to take over the country” - in a subtle reference to opposition groups.

Al-Saadoun made his remarks during a seminar held by Second Constituency candidate Abdullah Al-Ahmad, adding that some candidates are launching a ‘dirty war’ against their opponents by spreading false accusations. Meanwhile, Fourth Constituency candidates and former MPs Shuwaib Al-Muwazri and Ali Al-Deqbasi focused during a seminar held at their joint election campaign headquarters on “financial and administrative corruption spreading in Kuwait.”

Al-Muwaizri said that a 886 km long road network with multiple bridges and tunnels were built in a Gulf country with KD 203 million budget. In stark comparison, he pointed out that a 47 km long road was built in Kuwait by spending KD 764 million. On his part, Al-Deqbasi argued that Kuwait has the ability to achieve development “yet lacks a strong government.”

Another face of corruption was addressed

by Fifth Constituency candidate and former MP Falah Al-Sawagh, who said during his most recent seminar that certain candidates at the same constituency are paying voters an average of KD 2,000 (per citizen) to receive their votes. He urged Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak AlSabah to implement the law “in order to prove that the Cabinet is using a new approach [in fighting corruption.”

Separately, a couple of former MPs reacted to recent news about the disappearance of an espionage system from the State Security Depar tment. “ The Ministr y of Interior’s silence on the issue is not understandable,” said third constituency candidate Dr Mohammad Al-Tabtabaei, who argued that that people “close to the previous Cabinet requested from the Criminal Investigations Department(CID) to spy on oppositionist candidates.”

Third Constituency candidate Naji AlAbdulhadi urged that prompt investigations be held “to reveal the whereabouts of the missing devices and prosecute those who stole them,” reported Al-Rai.

KUWAIT: A billboard reading in Arabic ‘Kuwait is for Kuwaitis only’ is seen in front of a burnt down election campaign tent of candidate Mohammed Al-Juwaihel in Kuwait City yesterday after it was torched the night before by angry Kuwaiti tribesmen over remarks Al-Juwaihel made and deemed highly offensive by the tribe.

Cabinet expresses dismay over Adailiya incident

KUWAIT: Officers for election boxes security held a meeting chaired by Lt Gen Hameed Al-Sammak at Saad Al Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences yesterday. Total number of forces operating in this mission are 650 officers and 1150 cadets in addition to 100 soldiers and professionals.

Assembly hopefuls urge human development, right selection KUWAIT: A First Constituency candidate for the Kuwaiti parliamentary elections said here Monday that Kuwaiti workers at all state sectors should receive fur ther support. Addressing his supporters, Adel Al-Zaid said: “National cadres shoulder development responsibility in Kuwait, but t h e y s h o u l d g e t m o re e x p e r i e n ce a n d skills in order to be up to this major challenge.” He also called for the eradication of bureaucracy and red-tape, adding that they

are the “...key foe to development in any country.” He further added that this point is especially relevant given that Kuwait is looking to become a regional financial and commercial hub. Zaid emphasized that all in the country should work tirelessly to thwar t anything that could undermine Kuwait’s national unity.

For his part, Waleed Al-Qabandi, another First Constituency candidate, called on voters to carefully vote for the right can-

didate. Speaking at his election headquarters, he said: “The chance is still available to bring in the fit (candidates). But, the voter is required to bear in mind the issue of national unity while casting their ballot.”

He added that the prospective parliament must “set its priorities” in such a way that it may fulfill both ambitions and challenges of the country alike; primarily issues such as housing and education. — KUNA

Groups contesting Kuwait election KUWAIT CITY: From Islamists who want the rule of Islamic law to Western-style liberals, several political groups are contesting Thursday’s election for Kuwait’s 50-seat parliament.

Political parties remain banned in the oilrich Gulf state, although the groups act as de facto parties. The outgoing parliament, dissolved by the Amir in December, was dominated by conservatives.

Kuwait’s parliamentary system is unique as candidates contest elections individually, while the government is normally formed from outside parliament and its unelected ministers automatically become members of parliament and can vote like elected members. The main political groups fielding candidates in the polls are: • The Islamic Constitutional Movement (ICM), the political arm of Kuwait’s Sunni Muslim Brotherhood. The ICM has called for political and economic reforms despite advocating a stricter social order. It has officially endorsed four candidates and is backing several others.

• The Islamic Salafi Alliance (ISA), an affiliate of the Heritage Revival Society, a purist Sunni

religious group with hardline views on morality. It has fielded four candidates but is also supporting several others.

• The National Islamic Alliance, a Shiite group. It is fielding two candidates and is backing others.

• The Justice and Peace Alliance, a Shiite group that is fielding one candidate and is backing a few others.

• The Popular Action Bloc, which brings together former legislators headed by veteran former speaker Ahmad al-Saadun. The group focuses on populist issues such as housing and salary increases. It is fielding five candidates.

• The Democratic Forum, a liberal group and strong advocate of political and economic reforms, with a priority on development. It has fielded four candidates and is backing several others. Almost all Bedouin tribes have carried out primary elections and each tribe’s candidates are running together on a joint platform.

All the groups, except the two Shiite blocs, are gathered under the umbrella of the socalled Kuwaiti opposition, which is a very loose political alliance. —AFP

headquarters Monday night, in the suburb of Adailiya, Deputy Minister for Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah issued a statement yesterday addressing that event.

While the Amiri Diwan kept close tabs on the unsettling incident, the statement said, which ran counter to the acceptable norms of the Kuwaiti society, it realized that its occurrence came at an untoward time when the nation as a whole was anticipating in a few days to head for the polls to elect members of the next parliament.

People before last night’s unfortunate incident were looking for a brief respite to contemplate hopes for an election that would embody a harmonious intertwining between the executive and legislative branches, and would strive to fulfill the aspirations of the nation to enjoy a tranquil period of political placidity and unprecedented amity among all strata of the Kuwaiti society, noted the statement.

Instead, indicated the statement, people were nonplussed by last night’s disconcerting incident, prompting the Amiri Diwan to appeal to the public to steer clear of what might disrupt the course of the elections, by remaining true to the iron-clad bonds that all groups and tribes and sects in Kuwait share.

The statement underscored firmly that the authorities have instructed the proper legal organs to bring to account any wrong-doer who took part in last night’s burning down of the campaign rally headquarters. —KUNA

Foreign banks in for hard time KUWAIT: Banking sources revealed that foreign banks working in Kuwait are facing a difficult operational environment, thanks to slow demand from clients and severe competition from local banks.

The local banks are favored over foreign banks as they have been in service for many years and if sources are to be believed, some of these banks might be considering closing their branches in Kuwait. Sources said that all foreign banks are facing a problem as the period granted to them from Central Bank to employ 60 percent Kuwaiti employees is almost up. The rule stated that they should employ 60 percent of Kuwaiti citizens within three years of obtaining license.

Many of these banks reduced their working hours and services and there are mainly two reasons which have prompted this action. One reason is to reduce their expenses and the second reason is the challenging and difficult operational environment in Kuwait, which is pressing on the profitability of the banking sector as a whole. —Al-Anbaa

Number of Kuwaitis could drop to 19% of population?

KUWAIT: Number of Kuwaitis in the country could drop to as low as 19 percent of the population if the government fails to curb the influx of expatriate labor forces to Kuwait, said government sources recently.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the sources argued that the Ministry of Interior and the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor failed to carry out their job properly with regard to imple menting the government’s plan to restore balance in population structures.

According to their statements, around 188,000 workers entered Ku w a i t i n t h e p a s t 1 8 m o n t h s,

KUWAIT: In an extraordinary meeting held at Sief Palace yesterday, under the chairmanship of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad AlSabah, the Kuwaiti Cabinet expressed discontent over last night’s unfortunate incident in Adailiya.

Emerging from the meeting, spokesman for the Government, Justice Minister and Minister of Education and Higher Education, Ahmad Al-Mulaifi, said the Cabinet has followed, with concern and dismay, the offensive language used by a parliamentary election candidate against a segment of Kuwaiti society and the ensued reaction. These actions violate the law and risk a state of chaos that threatens the security and safety of the nation and citizenry, the Cabinet said. The cabinet vowed to take all necessary actions against practices that threaten national unity, stressing that freedom does not permit offending others.

The ministers assigned state authorities, particularly the ministries of interior and information, to take legal action against those breaching law, creating chaos and disrupting public order. The cabinet concluded with a call for candidates, voters and the media to be responsible, tolerant and respectful of different opinions.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet discussed and approved the bills of the third annual plan of 2012-2013 and the state budget for the fiscal year of 2012-2013.

Meanwhile, reacting to the burning down of a candidate’s election campaign

despite measures to limit the access of expatriate labor forces in Kuwait. These measures include allowing companies to issue work permits only if it needed extra labor forces on a contractual basis.

The sources argued however that the number of workers from a certain Arab country has recentl y i n c r e a s e d s i g n i f i c a n t l y. D r Fa d h e l S a f a r, t h e m i n i s t e r o f social affairs and labor admitted in a recent statement that the government is struggling to find solutions to problems created by “residency traders who brought tens of thousands of unsk illed labor forces to Kuwait”. — Al-Rai

KUWAIT: A burnt down election campaign tent of candidate Mohammed Al-Juwaihel is pictured in Kuwait City yesterday. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Kuwait fully supports Egyptian revolution CAIRO: Dr Rasheed Al-Hamad, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Egypt, has affirmed Kuwait’s solidarity with the Egyptian people in their revolution and having their demands met. The comments came during a seminar held last night, entitled ‘The Revolution of Youth, People and Army’ held by the World Organization for African and Asian writers on the occasion of the first anniversary of the revolution. The seminar was attended by a number of dignitaries, ambassadors, intellectuals and representatives of the foreign, interior and defense ministries. Al-Hamad added that the

Embassy of Kuwait in Cairo canceled their celebrations for National Day during the revolution given the struggles in the country at the time, and instead transferred the usual expenditure to charitable organizations as a sign of solidarity with the Egyptian people. He further explained that the Kuwaiti lawyers who came to Egypt to defend former President Mohammad Hosni Mubarak only represented themselves as individuals and not the Kuwaiti government or people, adding that there were also Kuwaiti lawyers who came to defend the martyrs of the revolution. — KUNA

Kuwaiti democracy ‘seminal’ in GCC RABAT: Lahbib Choubani, Minister in charge of Relations with Parliament and Civil Society, said yesterday that Kuwait’s democracy is seminal amongst its counterparts in the GCC. Choubani said that the Kuwaiti democratic experience has been shaped since the 1960s and has reached an exceptional level in recent

years due to the support of the ruling AlSabah family. The Moroccan official affirmed that both Morocco and Kuwait were heading in the right direction within the democratic domain, adding that parliaments in both countries could work together to exchange experiences to the benefit of both nations. — KUNA

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

local

Majority of orphans in Kuwait not aware of their parentage 970 children call orphanage their home

By Nawara Fattahova

KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Minister of Interior Ahmad Al-Hmoud Al-Sabah and Minister of Justice, Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education Ahmad Al-Mulaifi, carried out a visit yesterday to the Ashbiliya School in Kaifan to check on the latest preparations at the balloting location ahead of parliamentary election day.

KUWAIT: There are 970 orphans lodged at Kuwait’s orphanage, an institution set up under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour (MSAL) and divided into different sections. The majority of the children in the orphanage in Kuwait are not aware of their parentage, explains Mona Al-Salem, Director of the Family Nursery of the Orphanage.

The orphanage has been taking care of them since 1961. Prior to this, it was the Ministry of Health’s responsibility to do so. Then the MSAL rented a building in Rumeithiya as an orphanage, then shifted to Adeliya. Finally in 1973, they moved into the present premises that was built in the orphanage complex,” says Al-Salem.

The majority of the children don’t know who their parents are. “Out of the 228 orphans, some 84 percent, (219 of them) have unknown parents.

Five of the others come from broken families.

There are four who have an expat mother but do not know their father. “All orphans are naturalized and gain Kuwaiti nationality once they reach the age of 21 years,” explained Al-Salem.

The orphanage is also home to non-Kuwaiti orphans. “We have three non-Kuwaiti orphans here. The rules allow acceptance of non-Kuwaitis on condition that they are younger than 10 years.

These cases are accommodated temporarily until their family situation gets better, and are then returned to their families,” Al-Salem said.

The orphanage is divided into different wings.

Candidates outline priorities KUWAIT: Election day is just hours away, and candidates made sure to make use of as much time left as possible to talk about their campaigns and plans if elected during an interview with local press and media outlets. One candidate urged voters to “live up to their duty on Feb 2 to elect MPs capable of undertaking the responsibility of improving Kuwait.”

“The elections are an opportunity for [Kuwaitis] to prove that we can rise above sectarian and tribal differences or self-interests,” said Third Constituency candidate Dr Aseel AlAwadhi during a recent interview with Al-Rai daily, insisting that the diversity of Kuwaiti society has always been key in the success of the country’s democratic process. Regarding the priorities of her election campaign, Dr AlAwadhi said that she aims, if elected, to focus on anticorruption legislation, as well as the improvement of the education and health fields.

In order to combat corruption effectively, one candidate believes that improvements should first be introduced in order to assure that the law is followed strictly, “Reform cannot happen unless enhancements that further boost independence of the judicial authority are introduced,” said second constituency candidate Dr Mohammad Al-Abduljader as he spoke during a recent interview with Al-Qabas about his election campaign. Al-Abduljader blamed “governmental mismanagement” for problems facing the construction of developmental projects in Kuwait, rather than financial or legislative reasons.

First Constituency candidate, Dr Adel Al-Dhamkhy, also talked about better management as one side of “the triangle of reform,” along with fighting corruption and the implementation of the development plan.

Al-Dhamkhy said, during a recent interview with Al-Rai, that the upcom-

ing challenges require “overcoming the past and adopting a new vision of joint, productive work.”

Meanwhile, Fifth Constituency candidate Saifi Al-Saifi said during an interview with Al-Rai T V that the upcoming challenges require the “...efforts of statesmen who can save the country from the problems it currently suffers from,” adding that the parliament’s dissolution came following public frustration “...with MPs who abandoned their legislative role and gave full loyalty to the parliament, as well as from the multimillion-dinar deposits scandal.” On that regard, fourth constituency candidate Shuwaib Al-Muwazri said that the next parliament must continue investigations to reveal individuals involved in the scandal. He added, while speaking in an interview with Al-Rai, that this should be given top priority “...before the cabinet outlines its new work approach.”— Al-Rai, Al-Qabas

“The total number of individuals housed here are 970. At least 60 are at the Kids House (from birth - 14 years), 17 at the Girls House (from 14 - 18 years), 41 at the Girls Accommodation (above 18), 110 at the Boys Accommodation (above 10).

There are 544 that are cared for at the Family Nursery, 145 inmates are independent at live in the Monitoring Adults department who are above 24 years. Also, 53 live in Sons of Kuwaitis Abroad department.

The Ministry of Health is the authority that transfers the children to the orphanage. The procedure for transferring a child to the orphanage begins with the Ministry of Interior depending on whether a child was born in the hospital or was found in a public place. The Ministry of Health is in charge of conducting the procedures.

Most of the orphans study in public schools and the Kuwait University. “ There are eight orphans studying in private schools and private universities,” she said. There are eight in the kindergarten, 20 in elementary school, 24 in the intermediate level, and 35 in the high school, four taking vocational courses, 15 in the university, six taking special courses, six who have enrolled into special education schools, four that are not studying. Also, 53 are employees and the rest are unemployed, highlighted Al-Salem.

Some orphans leave the facility while others choose to stay on. “Leaving the orphanage is not an issue as we still feel responsible for them and feel we have to care for them and support them

after their long stay in the orphanage. “Those who leave are men who begin a career and find a place to live or after getting married,” said AlSalem, adding that the women leave only after they are married. Also, some female orphans who are working or divorcees stay at the accommodation facility for girls, stressed Al-Salem.

How are orphans given their names? The staff of the orphanage chooses a list of four names for each orphan according to legal conditions. “The name will not include the suffix ‘Al’ to names so as to avoid mixing genealogies,” she said.

It is not possible to adopt orphans because it is illegal to do so according to Islamic Sharia.

Instead, foster parenting is allowed. “This means that a family can raise a child from the orphanage under the observation of the government. They can care for the child as guardians without giving the orphan their family name and without inheritance rights, unless the parents mention it in their will. The government can withdraw them from the family if the child is neglected,” she said.

As a pre-requisite to sponsoring an orphan, the applicant should be a Muslim Kuwaiti citizen.

“Any Kuwaiti can apply to sponsor an orphan. The applicant whether a man or woman should be married, and it does not matter if the spouse is non-Kuwaiti. The female applicant may also be divorcee or a widow. The applicant should not be suffering from mental illnesses. They should be financially stable and be residing in Kuwait,” she concluded.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

LOCAL

in my view

Letters to Badrya Darwish

Just a tip of the iceberg

A game of balance

badrya_d@kuwaittimes.net Hi Ms Darwish, I enjoy reading your articles and the one about marriage was certainly thought-provoking!

Keep up the good work, Abdulrahman Elshayyal

By Fouad Al-Obaid

fouad@kuwaittimes.net

Dear Badrya, I salute you with all my heart for your bold thinking. Thank God there are some people who still think more openly than what the society is accustomed to these days. This is just a tip of the iceberg on some of the contradictions according to which our Arab society lives, for the sake of men.

I really wish I could see more bold discussions around other topics more often. When a society is bombarded with such topics, I’m sure there will be high resistance, followed by a stage of denial. However, over time, they will begin to adopt actual realities and will adjust those real life double standards into normal standards, probably from an Islamic point of view. I wish you all the best in your following articles and I hope to read more of your articles.

Thanks and regards, Noha Zayed Dear Badrya Darwish Thank you for the interesting article that appeared in the Kuwait Times newspaper. Let’s turn to the point you have raised.

It is a shame not only in the places you have mentioned but also in the Caucasus, Georgia to marry an old woman. However, there is strong opposition to the marriages contracted between an old man and a young girl. In my view, the opposition is connected with the notion of leadership. In more liberal or conservative societies, the issue is resolved differently. On the whole, such marriages are condemned. Of course, the right to happiness, whatever age you are in, cannot be taken away because of public opinion. There are some arguments for it: 1) Marriage is not only a private business but has great public and social implications, such as continuation of healthy generation which is less possible biologically (as I know) if a partner is old; 2) Marriage is symbol of moral purity. The aim of marriage should be the meeting of two uncorrupted individuals for the creation of a happy family, giving birth to children and nurturing them as members of a future society. Generally, when the age difference is too drastic, people think that it is because of material or physical self-interests that couple do not love each other or cheat themselves. In this case, there is a bargain, terrible in its nature and so common in the past or present, to exchange his/her young body for material wealth.

I agree with you that impartial judgment should applied in both cases. In a patriarchal society, where the role of male is considered more important than of woman’s, (openly or indirectly) condemnation of the marriage is an ordinary thing. The men you have questioned might feel insulted because such marriages contradict their opinion about the role of a male who becomes a toy in the hand of old woman, and they do not like it.

I think that the same judgment should be used while talking about marriages contracted between old men and young women. I support such marriages if they really are based on true love between the couples. Unfortunately, they are not. In Georgia, for example, there are lots of young men who have older lovers and the only motivation is money.

Thank you for the article again.

I have once been in Kuwait. My love for your country sometimes makes me to read your newspaper online.

Best wishes Lasha Chakhvadze Lecturer of English, Tbilisi State University Hi Badrya, I’m a UK male working in Kuwait. Just read your Friday article, it’s about time someone wrote about this. I’ve often wondered why society is willing to overlook certain uncomfortable subjects such as this and yet get all hot and bothered about other innocuous subjects such as unmarried couples holding hands.

Anyway keep up the good work.

Simon Baber Estate Manager Hi Badrya I just read your article entitled ‘A Wife or A Nurse’ in Kuwait Times which features in the opinion section. Well, I read online so the article is prominently placed on the front page.

I liked the subject of the article and I am sure many more will find it interesting. It is a thought provoking article and the subject carries a lot of weight as well. Physiologically, men and women are different and this difference drives the needs and demands of each individual too. Women face the situation with patience and calmness and they display the highest level of composure during difficulties. However, men’s response deviates significantly vis-a-vis women’s.

It is an arguably proven fact that men chose their bride based on her age, beauty and stature whereas for women they seek stability, love, care and support in their marriage. Men have different hormonal surges too. Most of the men get attracted to women just by their physical beauty and demureness while women get attracted to men by their demeanor, the way he respects and treats her and many other reasons which are not sexually motivated. Therefore, the appetite of men for a younger bride is mostly based on lust and libido whereas the appetite of women is based on respect, treatment, love, affection, compassion, care, stability and support.

Our prophet PBUH married our beloved mother Khadija due to the command of Allah to realize the larger goal of expansion of Islam. The marriage was based on socio-politico-economical grounds as our mother Khadija was an influential and successful business woman. The marriage between these two great souls helped shape the future course of Islam by the command of Allah. So this marriage was exceptional and unique and which also shows the immense love our prophet PBUH had for Khadija even though they had a significant age difference.

The concept of cougar and toy boy is a recent phenomenon which has found good media publicity in the West. However, in Islam, the marriage is solemnized based on Islamic principles and we must take into the account a great ‘hadith’ of our prophet PBUH in which he has mentioned the qualities based on which we should seek a woman or a man for marriage. Men must realize that if they marry too young a woman, then in most of the cases this marriage will leave the woman unhappy, traumatic and unsatisfied on all the grounds. Most of such marriages take place due to the greed of parents and they force the young woman to marry the old man. This is against Islam and humanity too. Most of the girls marry old men due to their parents’ coercion. If given an opportunity to choose (Islam preaches the consent of girl for marriage), the young women will not accept the old man as their spouse in a million years. We give too much importance to our own pleasure, money, greed, tradition and customs at the expense of real Islam.

It is a well-done article. I have a humble suggestion for you.

When you write such a valuable and important article, I feel you should cover more areas encompassing the issue and develop your opinion around such issues. Also, please check grammatical errors which impart a very bad impression of a national newspaper circulated in English.

I am not here to criticize you. I want to share my honest views about your article which may be helpful.

Regards Ilyas Ansari

Twitter: @Fouadalobaid

hat does the torching of an electoral tent, a group of angry tribesmen, teens strolling in malls past 10 pm, and a dysfunctional political system have in common? The answer is that this is the reality of a society that is at a tipping point today; one that is not aware of the dangers it is putting itself into.

The torching of Juwaihil’s electoral campaign tent marks a turning point in political violence in Kuwait. It is the first time that law and order has broken down, leading to the willful destruction of private property in an attempt to muzzle free speech. I was neither present, nor did I hear the speech, though the sirens of the firetrucks lead me to think that something was wrong Monday night. Upon reading the accounts of the events, I was dumbstruck and perhaps for the first time, I am weary of a system that has pitted different elements of our society against one another for too long.

Tribalism and sectarianism are two ‘isms’ that can propel a peaceful, beautiful tolerant country towards the brink of civil strife - worse towards civil war! I pray that the events of Monday night will force all political activists to consider the stakes on hand, and to understand that Monday night, we reached a point that is pushing us one step closer towards a point of noreturn. Restraint is what needs to be applied by all parties to safeguard the electoral process - which I still maintain is flawed and in need of fixing. Furthermore, we need to start a new national dialogue process.

As the election date is at our door, only 50 will enter Parliament, which will mean that 250 plus hopefuls will see both their effort and dreams shattered by the decisive vote of the 400,000 plus constituents. Though much hope is pinned on the success of the electoral process, Feb 3, 2012 will mark the beginning of what I suspect will be a painful reformation process. By the look of things what is to come will require a major overhaul of the current status quo. The upcoming change will be positive for the nation if implemented successfully. Alternatively it may be a process that will require several years of downturn before we start seeing the bright light at the end of what could be a long tunnel.

As if local politics were not complicated enough, this year geopolitics will come to place a greater threat on the wider Middle East in general, and Kuwait specifically as the Iranians start their Busher Nuclear Plant in a country known for drastic seismic activity. The potential for a disastrous leak or worse, for a planned attack on its nuclear facilities will leave us vulnerable to an environmental hazard ready to manifest!

The further threat of the closure of the Hormuz Straight will keep policy planners perplexed at an escalating situation between the West to which it is allied, and an Iran that is desperate to maintain cordial brotherly relations. Further North, our relations with Iraq will be put to the test as this year may mark the beginning of negotiation on pending issues that will affect us positively or negatively - depending on the political will. May the best candidates win, and may a new page of Kuwait history open in peace and harmony so that we will emerge more united and ready to address the challenges ahead.

W

kuwait digest

Divide and rule policy

By Dr Shamlan Al-Essa s election day draws near, the campaign is Political ideologies, be it nationalist or Islamist, heating up among candidates, as each failed in making a tangible achievement for the attempts to convince the voter that he is the Kuwaiti citizen other than bogus slogans. The relibest, which is something natural and accepted. Fair gious parties be it Sunni or Shiite have an adversary competition among candidates is okay, but what is stand on intellectual freedom, because liberties unnatural and unacceptable is to use religion and mean fighting tyranny and monopolizing authority. sectarianism to fight opponents. The first conAll candidates are talking about the constitution stituency is witnessing the sectarian phenomenon, and law and how they will comply with them but as some candidates or their representatives sent the constitution and laws refer to the citizen with messages and visited neutral expressions.

The main reason for the spread of trib- There are Islamic some diwaniyas to warn people against alism and sectarianism is the absence of groups that are voting for Shiites. citizenry principle as a joint identity that attempting to tear The question is why the fabric of Kuwait is supposed to see national unity become society by stirring do sec tarian differstronger during elections because the sectarian zealousness ences spread, and tribal principles candidate needs the votes of all citizens, and Sunni-Shiite difbecome stronger durand the citizens have cer tain stands ferences. It is not in ing elections? What is towards dangers that may harm the coun- the interest of anythe reason? Elections one to cover up what try’s interests. in democratic counthose groups are tries boost the spirit of spreading during national unity and citizens become closer because their election campaigns, as rejecting and excluding the candidate there does not represent tribalism, others during an election breaks us up but doesn’t sectarianism or family, but rather represents the bring us together. Finally, historically speaking, entire nation.

Kuwaitis were known for being moderate, contrary The main reason for the spread of tribalism and to Shiism in neighboring countries like Iraq and Iran. sectarianism is the absence of citizenry principle as There is no extremism in religion in Kuwait and relia joint identity that is supposed to see national uni- gious rituals were being practiced in mosques or ty become stronger during elections because the homes quietly away from the fake show-offs. All candidate needs the votes of all citizens, and the people were kind to the religious or non-religious... citizens have certain stands towards dangers that so what has changed, and why do some people may harm the country’s interests. insist on creating sectarian strife? — Al-Watan

A

kuwait digest

Conflict of interests

kuwait digest

Declaring my vote

By Dr Hamed Al-Hmoud ormer MP and candidate Abdurrahman Al- America in the context of Republican presidential Anjari raised a very important topic during a candidates. There are speculations whether Mitt recent interview with Al-Qabas. He spoke Romney will support a fair tax system, given the about the reasons behind his ouster from the fact that he belongs to the rich class which benefitNational Action Bloc(NAB). He explained that he ed a lot from the tax system the Congress passed opted to go independent after sensing that the NAB during term of George W Bush. In the meantime, began mixing politics and business in its work. He Romney’s main opponent, Newt Gingrich, is facing urged the prime minisproblems that stem from ter to put an end to Despite strict regulations adopted by an incident in which he “political struggles that was paid large amounts advanced countries to ensure that a of money for consulting stem from fighting over businessman will not enjoy an unfair with a financial company tenders of mega projadvantage should they decide to prac- during his time as ects,” stating that this is the main reason behind tice work, there are many rumors circu- Speaker of the House. the inactivity in infraIn the Arab World, we lating about scandals in which politistructure-related projfind a huge mix up cians used commercial relationships to between politics and ects, and further hinted gain the upper hand. One of the most business. If we take that the former prime minister faced continufamous cases is the scandal of former Lebanon for example, it ous pressure from Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. is believed that this major traders through problem is the main He has been accused of using his posi- cause of political crises in MPs. tion as owner of a large media and that countr y. Some Aside from the question of how accurate Albelieve that the late Rafik business empire.

Anjari’s statements are, Al-Hariri gained huge it is important to note that mixing business and social and political influence due to his commercial politics is an old phenomenon. There is a story in and financial status. This is apart from the fact that history books about a Roman emperor who ordered his government contributed toward building the that ships carrying goods be burned down so that country’s infrastructure. his status is not used to market imported stuff.

It is believed to have given him an unfair advanDespite strict regulations adopted by advanced tage over foes in both the politics and business. countries to ensure that a businessman will not Many people use this speculation to create an enjoy an unfair advantage should they decide to imbalance in Lebanon’s political work. . In Kuwait, practice work, there are many rumors circulating no one can deny the great national role that busiabout scandals in which politicians used commer- nessmen play in the history of the country. With cial relationships to gain the upper hand. One of the that in mind, I believe that what Al-Anjari said about most famous cases is the scandal of former Italian the development process being obstructed by clash Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. He has been of interests between politicians and businessmen, accused of using his position as owner of a large has some ground to it. The question now is, can the media and business empire.

Cabinet put an end to this struggle that saw a profThis topic is also discussed in the United States of itability in projects. — Al-Qabas

F

By Ali Mahmoud Khajah will not only vote for former MPs, I will also vote for newcomers who meet the requirements I believe in. * I will vote for all those who refused to initiate interpellation sessions behind closed doors and did not deprive people the right to know what is being discussed.

• I will vote for all those who refused to refer grilling motions, be them concerning the prime minister or for others, to the legislative committee or the Constitutional Court as that would deprive MPs the right to monitor government performance, particularly since referrals had no real reasons.

• I will vote for those who attended sessions that the government tried to delay in a bid to lift former MP Faisal Al-Mislem’s immunity.

• I will vote for those that placed the ‘no-cooperation’ vote against former MP in the aftermath of humiliating people on Jaman Al-Harbash diwaniya incident in 2010.

• I will vote for those who rejected the injustice meted out to Arab peoples in all Arab countries; those who treat the Syrian, the Bahraini, the Yemeni, the Libyan, the Tunisian and the Egyptian peoples equally.

• I will vote for those who take serious life measures in response to the cash deposits issue.

• I will vote for those who did not boycott parliamentary sessions with excuses that bribed MPs attend them. They attended other sessions with them.

• I will vote for those who refused to ‘grill’ ministers over trivial things such as a pack of paper tissues.

• I will vote for those who admitted that breaching the Parliament was a mistake.

• I will vote for those whose decisions are only driven by reason.

So, former MPs who meet the above mentioned conditions and new candidates who agree to them will surely get my vote.—Al-Jarida

I

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

local

Students take mid-term exam crisis to court ‘No serious efforts to solve problem’ KUWAIT: The Minister of Education, along with a senior MOE official, are set to face legal action after a number of lawsuits were filed by parents of high school students, who argue that the students’ evaluation system led average mid-term examination results to fall. According to a report quoting sources, the parents claim that significant changes introduced annually to the students’ evaluation system have negatively affected their children’s performance, and eventually led to them recording low grades in their mid-terms.

Their lawsuits are reportedly filed directly against Minister Ahmad AlMualifi, as well as Assistant Undersecretary for Public Education

Muna Al-Lughani.

In the meantime, several officials within the Ministry of Education are reportedly concerned regarding speculations that large numbers of high school students could go on strike at the start of the second semester in mid-February. Sources who spoke to a local daily anonymously, questioned the ministry’s efforts so far to resolve the problem.

Meanwhile, there are people within the ministry who believe that a meeting between the education minister and a number of students’ parents is not going to result in anything significant.

Al-Mulaifi, who is also the minister of higher education and minister

of justice, had called for a meeting to be held today with some high school students and their parents to discuss allegations about the ministry conspiring to drop students’ average grades.

The allegations speculate that what happened is a part of a conspiracy by which the ministry attempts to reduce the number of high school graduates who will apply at the already overcrowded Kuwait University.

The minister’s invitation came during a sit in last Sunday carried out by dozens of high school students, joined by their parents as well as a number of parliamentary election candidates. — Al-Qabas

Heroin seized from Asian gang

By Hanan Al-Saadoun KUWAIT: Three Asians were arrested with possession of 500 grams of heroin, after police was tipped off on their illegal activities. He was arrested in Salmiya along with the second accused and the drugs were seized. They divulged more information to police about the third suspect who was arrested. They were referred to higher authorities.

Car accidents Two citizens suffered a lower back injury , and a third sustained an injury to the head after a car accident took place along King Faisal Road. They were admitted to Farwaniya hospital.

Also, a 56-year-old Pakistani suffered multiple bruises, a 49-year-old Filipina suffered a shoulder dislocation and a 29-year-old Filipina suffered a facial injury in a car accident that took place along Airport Road. They were admitted to Sabah hospital.

A 26-year- old Indian was rendered unconscious, a 41-year-old Filipino suffered a laceration in a car accident that took place along Second Ring Road. He was admitted to Amiri hospital.

KUWAIT: Members of the Asian gang pictured after their arrest.

Hit and run case A 30-year-old Egyptian suffered a lower back injury after a speeding car ran over him in Sharq. He was admitted to Amiri hospital.

State budget up by KD 3 billion KUWAIT: The Cabinet sent a draft law to the Supreme Council for Planning and Development (SCPD) regarding its budget for the fiscal year 2012-13, according to sources yesterday. Speaking to a local daily on the condition of anonymity, the government sources said that the SCPD is set to adopt the draft law tomorrow before it is sent to the Amir, and then to the parliament for voting.

According to the report, the new budget reaches nearly KD 22 billion; up by approximately three billion compared to the last budget (on the

basis of average oil price of $65 a barrel). The budget is divided in to KD 4.7 billion for public sector salaries; KD 4.2 billion for subsidies; while KD 3.2 billion is allocated for subsidized fuel used in power plants and water desalination stations. The sources also indicate that only KD 3 billion is allocated to projects scheduled during the upcoming fiscal year.

KD 5.5 billion is reportedly allocated to the Ministry of Finance in the next budget, while KD 5.1 billion is allocated to the Ministry of Electricity and Water. The distribu-

tion for other ministries according to the sources goes as follows: KD 1.7 billion for the Ministr y of Education, KD 1.3 billion for the Ministry of Defense, KD 1.25 for the Ministry of Health, KD 1.1 for the Ministry of Oil, and KD 1 billion for the Ministry of Interior.

Meanwhile, Minister of Finance Mustafa Al-Shamali told a local daily that the state budget will “provide the government with all financial requirements for developmental projects”, assuring that the Cabinet will address inflation during the next budget. —Al-Rai, Al-Jarida

KUWAIT: Acting Director General of Drugs Control General Department Brig Saleh Ghannam Al-Enezi received a Saudi Arabian drug control directorate delegation headed by Fareed Al-Maiman and Bader AlHarithi. Al-Enezi explained the nature of DCGD duties and both the parties discussed issues of mutual interest and cooperation. — Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun

Randy Ali

Mortada Yusuf Sheikh

Kuwait set to get leaner, muscular at health expo

By Ben Garcia KUWAIT: All of us want to get fit, look good, and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. The Durham Events Management Co is set to organize a Health, Fitness and Weight Loss exhibition in September, perceived to be the biggest of its kind in Kuwait.

The fitness and weight loss expo will see various fitness, nutrition and dietary food products/supplements, spas, health care clinics, gym and fitness centers, apart from participation from other sports-related companies.

Speaking with the Kuwait Times, Randy Ali, marketing consultant said that people’s awareness is the best marketing tool for any event to be a success.

“We are campaigning early so that the public will be aware of it. We want everyone in Kuwait to participate and attend the expo,” Ali said. “Who doesn’t like to be fit

or look good and be healthy? This exhibition is important for all of us to come together with a singular aim in mind. We will try to bring everyone under one roof so that people in Kuwait can benefit from it,” he added. Ali expects international health and fitness companies to participate.

The expo is set to be held from Sept 25 to 29 and according to Mortada Mohammad Yusuf Sheikh, managing partner, the exhibition will not be a mere display of products, but will be a lively event that will showcase different presentations from various companies involved. “Lively and entertaining shows; this is what we expect from this expo. We want live presentations, muscular men to display their biceps, companies to demonstrate their products, and almost every day we are going to present new things for people to watch and enjoy,” he said.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

local

Young men flee ‘tiger attack’ in Salmiya Domestic worker tries to commit suicide

KUWAIT: Army Chief of Staff, Lt Gen Ahmad Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, held discussions with director of the command and staff college in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Brig Musleh Al-Maaitah, as part of his current visit to Kuwait. The meeting featured discussion of subjects of mutual interest and boosting cooperation.

GCC, EU ‘should solidify ties’ BRUSSELS: The Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Abdulattif Al-Zayyani, yesterday called for stronger ties between the GCC and the European Union (EU) for the benefit of regional and global security and economic prosperity.

“The GCC-EU relationship is important and we should solidify our relationship to be able to face the international challenges that we are facing,” he told the foreign affairs committee of the European Parliament (EP).

The GCC chief noted that security in the Middle East, in particular the GCC, does effect the economic situation worldwide.

“The energy security is an issue we need to ensure that it is protected, and we need joint effort to ensure that our friends and allies receive the oil that they need for their economies,” he said.

Answering a question by a Member of the European Parliament on Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz, Al-Zayyani stressed that Hormuz is an “international passage way and it is the responsibility of the international community to ensure the free navigation in that part of the world.”

“We will be working under international law,” he added.

Al-Zayyani, in his speech gave an overview of how the six-member regional bloc functions and its economic, political and social goals, which are aimed at the welfare of its citizens.

He faced a number of a questions from the Members of the European Parliament on Bahrain, human rights and the process of democratization in the GCC, as well as the situation in Syria and Iran.

Al-Zayyani, who hails from Bahrain, said

“we in the GCC are very proud of how the issue was handled and resolved in Bahrian.”

He noted that the King of Bahrain wanted to see the truth and he formed an unprecedented commission of renowned personalities who came out with a report whose recommendations are now being implemented.

On human rights issues in the GCC, he said “I think we are on the right path.

Women have started to participate in many sectors, including politics.”

“We are doing it according to our religion, customs and culture. There is continuous improvement,” he said. On Syria, he said the GCC supports all Arab League initiatives.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting in the EP, the GCC chief said his visit to Brussels is aimed at boosting ties with the 27-member European bloc and to enhance strategic ties between the two regional blocs.

The GCC chief later met the EP’s President Martin Schulz and the EU High Representative Catherine Ashton.

Ashton’s spokesperson Michael Mann told journalists that they discussed the situation in Syria, Yemen, Iran and Palestine.

“It is a very important meeting. The EU has a lot of contacts with the GCC lately on Yemen,” said Mann.

Al-Zayyani is to meet the President of the EU Council Herman van Rompuy, the President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso and the Belgian Foreign Minister Diders Reynders tomorrow. He arrived in Brussels on Sunday on his first visit to the EU. —KUNA

KUWAIT: Investigations are currently ongoing in a case in which a group of friends claim that an enemy they were preparing to fight against almost released a large tiger at them. The alleged incident reportedly took place on Al-Blajat street in Salmiya where the 12 young men approached someone they had unfinished business with, and decided to settle their differences the old fashioned way. Soon enough, the enemy was joined by a friend, who reportedly had an adult tiger sitting in the backseat of his car. The group opted to flee when the tiger’s owner threatened to release the wild beast at them. They reported the incident at Rumaithiya police station immediately afterwards. Investigators are working to confirm the allegations before further action is taken.

Foul play Hawally police launched an investigation into a homicide case filed after evidence of foul play was found at a crime scene where a man was reported dead. Police and criminal investigators headed to an apartment located in a building at Yarmouk Street behind the Dar Al-Shifa Hospital where the 34-year-old victim was found dead.

Investigations revealed that the man died of a fatal head trauma after he was hit by a hard object on the head. Investigators reportedly found drug paraphernalia at the scene as well.

The body was taken for a forensic check as a case was opened at Nugra police station.

Fatal accidents Two citizens were killed in separate accidents recently. The first victim was pronounced dead at a crash site on the Second Ring Road, where his car collided with another vehicle whose driver was injured. The second accident happened at the Mina Abdullah Road when a car flipped over after its driver lost control of the steering wheel.

The victim was pronounced dead on the scene.

Meanwhile, a pedestrian died at Al-Blajat Street in Salmiya after he was run over by a driver who was put under arrest. The Egyptian victim was pronounced dead at Mubarak Hospital after he succumbed on the way. The driver remains in police custody for further action.

Suicide attempt A domestic worker was hospitalized in a critical condition after jumping off a building in Hawally in a bid to end her life. Paramedics and police rushed to the area following a report about an Asian housemaid falling from her employer’s window. She was rushed to Mubarak Hospital where she was admitted at the intensive care unit. Investigations confirmed that the incident was a suicide attempt.

Employees charged A building janitor was recently arrested for stealing rent collected from multiple buildings in Salmiya and Hawally. The buildings’ owner had assigned one of his employees to collect rent which totaled to KD 30,000. When asked about the money collected, the janitor eventually confessed to his employer that he sent all the money to his home country. The man was arrested after his employer called the police. During investigations, the suspect explained that he resorted to theft when his employer repeatedly turned down his request to borrow money he desperately needed to pay an urgent debt. He was referred to the Public Prosecution for further legal procedures.

Meanwhile, an Arab man reportedly escaped from Kuwait after stealing KD 600 from a company where he worked as an accountant. The company owner reported the incident to Al-Salhiya police station, saying that his employee disap-

peared after stealing the company’s profits.

Thieves arrested Farwaniya investigators arrested two bedoon young men responsible for 15 car thefts reported in three different governorates. Police launched investigations in eight car thefts reported in Al-Ferdous, when they eventually apprehended two suspects driving a car confirmed to be one of the vehicles reported stolen.

During investigations, the suspects admitted committing several crimes in Al-Farwaniya, Hawally and Capital governorates in which they used stolen cars to carry out robberies at PC shops. They were referred to the proper authorities to face charges.

New mom left Salmiya police are looking into a case in which an Asian woman accused a man of leaving her after she gave birth to his baby. The woman reportedly delivered her newborn inside her residence where she has been staying for a while after escaping from a house in which she worked as a housemaid. In her statement to officials, the woman explained that she had no other choice but to turn herself in after finding out that her boyfriend went back to his home country for good, leaving her and their newborn behind. A case was filed for investigations.

Girl kidnapped?

Search is currently ongoing for a girl reported kidnapped from Al-Wafra recently. Police patrols and criminal investigators reported to the scene where a family said their daughter was forced inside a car. A case was filed at the area’s police station for further investigations, as police reportedly have reasons to believe the case could be fabricated.— Al-Rai, Al-Watan

‘Share Gulf maritime experiences’ ABU DHABI: A Kuwaiti officer underlined here Monday the significance of reinforcing inter-Gulf cooperation in maritime security and safety. Speaking on the sidelines of a Gulf conference on maritime security, Chief of the Kuwaiti Coast Guard Operation Section Lieutenant Commander Sheikh Mubarak Ali Al-Sabah called on the GCC member states to share experiences with world experts in

the field of maritime security and monitoring in order to cement maritime safety in the Arabian Gulf.

He said he had delivered a lecture as part of the two-day gathering on the efforts of Kuwait and other GCC countries to protect international sea passages, to fight piracy and infiltration and to maintain port security. He added that he had also discussed practi-

cal steps and the vital role of the Kuwaiti Coast Guard in the protection of its seapor ts. He listed strategic goals including full maritime control over Kuwait’s territorial water, to eradicate robbery and maritime smuggling and improve rescue efforts.

The Kuwaiti officer fur ther stressed the importance of liaison and joint exercises among the GCC coast guards and border con-

trol agencies.

Sheikh Mubarak added that 90 percent of world oil exports and 70 percent of Gulf oil exports pass through the Arabian Gulf. The gathering’s focus was on the impac t of climate change on regional maritime security and the fight against piracy. Over 200 representatives from both Gulf and foreign countries are partaking in the conference. — KUNA

Vintage car museum launches HERITAGE magazine KUWAIT: The Kuwait Historical, Vintage and Classic Car Museum presented the first issue of their magazine HERITAGE on Sunday.

The magazine is the first classic and historical car publication in Kuwait and the Middle East, and reflects the aims of the museum whilst highlighting Kuwait’s rich heritage and association with the automobile.

The main aim of establishing the museum was to document the nation’s automotive history and to connect current and future generations to the past. HERITAGE magazine is just one example of the museum’s effort to secure this connection.

Published quarterly, bilingual in Arabic and English. HERIFAGE magazine seeks to bring its readers stories and personalities from within the sphere of historical car collecting in Kuwait. It will also support the museum’s goal of promoting and encouraging the appreciation and preservation of historic and classic vehicles.

The museum aims to position itself as the leading centre for Classic Cars in the Gulf and Middle East, and “we welcome you to the pages of HERITAGE magazine as we continue our journey.

Since it opened on Oct 10, 2010 the Kuwait Historical, Vintage & Classic Car Museum has become the nation’s focal point for classic

automobiles.

For the founders of the museum one of their major goals is to secure the preservation of vehicles linked with Kuwait’s history and with key events in the nation’s past.

The museum would not have been established in its current form had it not been for the kindness, benevolence amid passion of His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Muhammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. A true car aficionado, His Highness had the wisdom and the foresight to see the value a classic car museum would add to the cultural landscape of Kuwait.

Today, the museum is home to a collection of more than 35 historic and classic motor vehicles, including cars with close links to Kuwait’s national heritage.

Moreover, the museum also includes a wide range of support facilities such a fully equipped technical workshop, an extensive library, a photographic studio and, in a neighboring building on the museum site, Car Museum City - an indoor driving circuit for 7 to 16 year olds.

The museum is located in Shuwaikh, opposite City Centre and behind Alghanim Industries. It is open Saturday to Thursday from 9 am until 12 midday, and then from 4 pm to 8pm. Admission is free.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

60 die as troops, Taleban battle over mountaintop Page 12

Winter cold snap kills 36 in E Europe Page 11

12 die as US drone rocks Yemen Al-Qaeda hideout comes under attack ADEN: At least 12 Al-Qaeda militants, including one wanted by the United States, were killed in a drone strike in southern Yemen, a tribal leader said in what he called one of the biggest US strikes against the group. Residents said the unidentified drone attacked the militants overnight who were travelling in two vehicles east of the city of Lawdar in Abyan province, apparently after a meeting of local Al-Qaeda leaders.

The tribal leader in the area said that at between 12 and 15 people were killed in the attack, including at least four leaders or prominent figures in a local Yemeni branch of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). One of them was identified by local tribal leaders as Abdel-Munem Al-Fatahani, wanted by the United States for alleged links to attacks on the US destroyer Cole in 2000 and a French oil tanker in 2002, tribal sources said. Fatahani had survived at least two previous assassination attempts in recent years, they said. A spokesman for Al-Qaeda confirmed the strike but said only three members were killed and two were wounded. There was no immediate comment from Washington. Residents said no civilians were hurt in the strike. “This can be considered as one of the biggest American strikes because it targeted a large number of Al-Qaeda leaders at the same time,” the tribal leader, who declined to be identified, told Reuters by telephone.

“Unlike in previous attacks, this one seems to have achieved its goals and, unlike previous attacks, it did not result in civilian casualties.” Some previous attacks have caused large numbers of

civilian casualties. In one of the deadliest strikes in late 2009, more than 40 civilians, including women and children, died in an air strike which Washington said targeted Al-Qaeda.

Al-Qaeda militants have regrouped in the rugged mountains of Yemen after successive blows in Saudi Arabia and Iraq over the past few years. They exploited months of protests against President Ali Abdullah Saleh’s rule last year to broaden their control on swathes of territories in Yemen’s south. The United States has repeatedly used drones in Yemen to attack militants from Al-Qaeda, described by CIA Director David Petraeus as “the most dangerous regional node in the global jihad”. Last September, Petraeus said in a prepared testimony for a joint House-Senate intelligence committee hearing that AQAP was behind the December 2009 plot to blow up a US airliner as it approached Detroit and a 2010 effort to send bombs hidden in computer printers on two cargo aircraft. The United States and Saudi Arabia have been deeply worried about the expansion of Al-Qaeda in Yemen.

This month, dozens of militants swept through a small town, about 170 km southeast of the capital Sanaa, with little resistance. The group quit the town of Radda a few days later, but the move raised concerns that protracted political upheaval in Yemen over the fate of outgoing Saleh was giving Al-Qaeda a foothold near oil shipping routes through the Red Sea. An opposition-led government has been set up in Yemen after Saleh agreed in November to transfer authority to his

JAAR: Islamist loyalists, followers of Ansar Al-Sharia, an Al-Qaeda affiliate group in Yemen, are seen in the town of Jaar, in the southern Abyan province. — AFP deputy ahead of presidential elections in February. But protests have continued and activists are pressing on with demands that Saleh be tried for alleged

killings of demonstrators and that the government is purged of members of his family. The United States has scored major success in previous strikes. In September,

a US drone killed US-born cleric Anwar alAwlaki, described by US officials as “chief of external operations” for Al-Qaeda in Yemen. In October, two teenage relatives

of Awalaki were among 24 people killed in an air strike in southern Yemen, sparking angry reactions by members of the powerful tribe.— Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Iraq’s protest movement: Despondent and divided BAGHDAD: Nearly a year after national rallies rocked the government, Iraq’s protest movement is a shadow of its former self, after the authorities cracked down and demonstrators themselves became divided. While thousands of people took to the streets on February 25, Baghdad’s Tahrir Square-flooded last year by protesters calling for reforms on the heels of regional revolts-now sees barely 100 people at Friday rallies.

And many of these now shout progovernment slogans or are plainclothes security officers. Organizers of last year’s protests paint a picture of a movement suspicious of its own members, unwilling to risk what rights groups have condemned as unnecessary restrictions instigated by a “budding police state.” “The momentum we had in February 2011 is not there anymore,” said Kamal, a rally organizer who asked that he be identified only by his first name. “We are weaker than a year ago, and we are more divided.” “When we did what we did in February, we had more faith and hope. I don’t want to say we were wrong,” he said. “We were unrealistic.”

Last year’s protests, held in more than a dozen cities, were sparked by massive pro-democracy demonstrations in Tunisia and Egypt that led to the overthrow of those countries’ strongmen.

Protesters in Iraq, however, rallied over

basic issues such as water and electricity services, which remain sporadic and unreliable almost nine years after the USled invasion ousted Saddam Hussein.

They also demanded an end to endemic state corruption and the provision of much-needed jobs. Fifteen demonstrators were killed in clashes with police. In response, Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki gave his cabinet 100 days to shape up or face the sack.

The authorities diverted funds earmarked for warplanes to food for the poor and upped allocations for generator fuel for Iraq’s boiling summer, when electricity shortfalls are substantial. In the end, no ministers were fired even though no significant legislation was passed, and little tangible progress was made towards meeting protesters’ demands.

June 10 protests that followed the expiry of Maliki’s 100-day deadline were a key moment in the evolution of the demonstrations, protesters and rights groups say. Whereas previous weekly rallies, though dwindling in number, had criticized the government, the Tahrir Square demonstration in June saw critics outnumbered by its supporters.

Anti-government protesters dispersed after rival demonstrators assaulted several people. “The turning point, really, in the demonstrations, was the June 10 demonstration,” said Samer Muscati, a

Middle East and North Africa researcher for Human Rights Watch (HRW). “Most of the people we speak to, after that day, they realized they have to take their security seriously. “That was the turning point, that’s when the authorities realized they were on to something, that this is a more effective way of dealing with the protesters, and what they did was successful.” Muscati and Kamal both said government supporters had co-opted demonstrators using a combination of financial incentives and threats, in an attempt to lessen their numbers and breed internal suspicion. New York-based HRW sharply criticized Baghdad over its response to the demonstrations, arguing in a report this month that Iraq was “a budding police state” and “slipping back into authoritarianism.” Reporters Without Borders, meanwhile, has said journalists were targeted by security forces during the Tahrir Square demonstrations.

Journalists and protesters point to the unsolved September 2011 murder of Hadi Al-Mehdi, a radio reporter who had criticized the government, as a sign of a wider crackdown. Many blame the authorities for Mehdi’s death, a charge officials vehemently deny. The government insists it has not ordered any crackdown, and says instances of violence against protesters are one-off incidents which it condemns. “The protests began

BAGHDAD: Iraqi soldiers stand guard as a small group of people protest demanding reforms in Baghdad’s Tahrir Square. — AFP with logical demands which were possible to achieve,” said Maliki spokesman Ali Mussawi. “I won’t say we achieved all of them, but now in the streets the people believe that the government is serious.”

He added: “The figure for people who protest has decreased. Those who protest now are from political blocs, and do not represent Iraqis.” At a recent Friday rally in Tahrir Square, around 150 protesters

crowded the area, many calling for the execution of Sunni Arab Vice President Tareq Al-Hashemi, who is charged with running a death squad, accusations he and his supporters say are politically motivated. Others said Turkey, with which Iraq is in a diplomatic dispute, should mind its own business. Only a minority called for improved services and jobs for the unemployed. — AFP

Egypt’s Islamists gear up to challenge army Army seen seeking to retain role in security issues

BAGHDAD: Iraq lawmaker Abbas Al-Bayati speaks to the media after a Parliament session in Baghdad yesterday. — AP

Iraq Sunni-backed bloc return to parliament BAGHDAD: Iraq’s Sunni-backed Iraqiya bloc returned to parliament yesterday, ending their boycott over a political crisis within Shiite Prime Minister Nuri Al-Maliki’s government, but several of its ministers held out by snubbing his cabinet. Iraqiya’s return to parliament came as Iraq’s blocs wrangle to end the turmoil that stoked fears over revival of broad sectarian violence days after the last American troops left the OPEC-member country in midDecember.

The crisis began after Maliki’s government sought the arrest of Sunni Vice President Tareq Al-Hashemi and the removal of his Sunni Deputy Prime Minister Saleh Al-Mutlaq, prompting Iraqiya to boycott parliament and cabinet meetings.

Iraqiya on Sunday agreed to end its parliament protest and most of its lawmakers returned to the legislature yesterday where they were scheduled to take part in discussions of the delayed 2012 budget bill. But Iraqiya’s ministers of finance, education, and science, would not return to cabinet, two Iraqiya members said, demanding the return of Mutlaq to government. At least three of its ministers planned to attend the cabinet meeting.

“They decided to go back to parliament because of the budget,” said Jaber AlJaberi, lawmaker and member of parliament’s finance committee. Ahmed AlAlwani, a senior Iraqiya lawmaker, said the bloc would continue talks over the next few days over its cabinet boycott. But talks between Maliki’s Shiite alliance and Iraqiya had so far not touched on Mutlaq’s return, another senior Iraqiya source said. Maliki appears to have shored up his own posi-

tion during the crisis with Iraqiya deeply splintered. Some of its ministers kept working and a group of its lawmakers threatened to break away over boycott they saw as political damaging.

Hashemi, who denies government charges his office ran a death squad, has fled to Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region where his immediate arrest is unlikely. Mutlaq upset Maliki after calling him a dictator in a media interview. The crisis has underscored the deep fractures in Iraq’s government that divides ministries up among Shiite, Sunni and Kurdish blocs in a unwieldy power-sharing arrangement that has stalled key legislation, including a vital oil and gas law, since its formation a year ago. Iraq’s Shiite majority has ascended since the 2003 invasion that ousted Sunni dictator Saddam Hussein, and Maliki has since edged the country close to Shiite power Iran, worrying Baghdad’s Sunni Arab Gulf neighbors. A former Arabic teacher who emerged as a shrewd political player, Maliki says his moves against Sunni leaders are legal. But the measures are compounding fears among Iraqi Sunnis that he is seeking to consolidate his power at their expense. Since the crisis erupted in mid December, violence has spiked with more than 450 people killed in attacks. The number of victims in January alone was more than double a year ago, according to government figures and a Reuters tally.

Security officials blame Sunni Islamist insurgents trying to incite sectarian tensions for recent attacks on Shiite targets, including a suicide bomb attack on a Shiite funeral in a Baghdad neighborhood on Friday that killed 32 people. — Agencies

Pro-Gaddafi fighters await fate in prison MISRATA: Ibrahim Sadeq Khalifa looks like any other young Libyan, but the 20-yearold prisoner has good reason to fear for his future in the new Libya. By his own admission, Khalifa participated in the mass killing of civilians as Tripoli was falling. The fair, healthy-looking man with a thin moustache and beard, was a soldier in Muammar Gaddafi’s military and is now an inmate with more than 100 others in a prison run by the new national army in Libya’s third largest city of Misrata.

His crime, which he acknowledged in front of an AFP team touring the prison, was that he burnt alive around 150 men in a garage in Tripoli as fighting raged between Gaddafi loyalists and former rebels in August last year. “I threw grenades on them after my colleagues doused them in petrol. We then locked the garage and left. We burnt them alive,” Khalifa said, of the massacre that he and four other Gaddafi soldiers carried out. Khalifa admits that those killed by him and his comrades

in the Khalit Al-Farjan area of Tripoli on the afternoon of August 22 were civilians.

He was captured by former rebels from his home in Tajura, a suburb of Tripoli, three days later, when the city was overrun by anti-Gaddafi fighters. Shortly afterwards, rebel leaders spoke of the murder of more than 150 people in the capital. “They were about 150 men from all age groups. They were huddled together in the garage,” Khalifa said, adding that he was following the orders of his superior officer. “Yes I did it. I did what I was ordered to do by my officer in charge. When I went home that night, I could not sleep. I regret what I did,” said Khalifa, dressed in a blue T-shirt and tracksuit.

He was transferred on September 5 to the Misrata prison after spending about two weeks with the ex-rebels, who he said beat him repeatedly. Although there were no glaring signs of torture, a scar was visible near his collar bone. “It is from a cigarette burn. —AFP

CAIRO: The Muslim Brotherhood is devising a blueprint for a parliamentary democracy that would over turn Egypt ’s tradition of strong heads of state, flexing its muscles after emerging as the country’s dominant political force.

The plan has emerged since the Islamist movement took the biggest share of seats in parliament, allowing it to challenge the generals ruling Egypt since the overthrow last February of Hosni Mubarak in a popular uprising.

For now the Brotherhood has avoided a power struggle with the army, saying that would delay a return to political stability, bolstering the widely held belief that the two have a tacit understanding so their interests do not collide. The Brotherhood has decided not to field a candidate for the presidency but was free to deploy its formidable grassroots campaign machine unhindered in the parliamentary vote and won almost half of the seats on offer in the lower house.

It appears, for now, to accept the idea of a strong president who enjoys the army ’s backing. But under a plan outlined by senior officials in the movement, the presidency would be downgraded to a largely ceremonial role within four years and parliament would gradually take control of defense and foreign affairs from the military. “We want a system where the prime minister liaises with parliament to pick the cabinet,” said Mohamed Saad Al-Katatni, secretary-general of the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party (FJP).

The current constitution gives the president powers to pick the cabinet. “The prime minister will have most powers of government, relating to both internal and foreign affairs. The president’s powers would be limited,” he added.

The Brotherhood has said it will not be fielding one of its members as a candidate in the presidential poll and expelled a senior

CAIRO: A general view of the Egyptian parliament during the first working session in Cairo yesterday. —AP Brotherhood member, Abdel Moneim Abul Futuh, when he said he would run. It has not indicated if it will back any of the other candidates who have declared so far.

The Brotherhood’s intentions to rein in presidential powers could put it on a collision course with the military.

Army sources say the military will not submit to civilian control, although the generals insist they do not want to rule. Many Egyptians suspect that the army, which provided Egypt’s rulers for six decades, wants to hang on to power from behind the scenes.

“The army will not allow anyone to meddle in its defense affairs,” said an official close to the army establishment. “ The president will ensure that the army’s interests and position in the civilian state remain secure. The army in turn will back the president in managing the country’s sovereign affairs.”

But retaining a role in national security issues could give the army

a broad remit to intervene when it deemed necessary. Tensions over the Brotherhood’s and army’s contrasting visions on Egypt’s future, though contained for now, augur a power struggle that will last far beyond the planned handover of power from soldiers to civilians at the end of June. Brotherhood officials say the army retains a vital role for now in Egypt’s political and economic life, and accept that it should control defense, foreign policy and national security for the duration of the next elected president’s term. When the president takes office in mid-year under the army’s planned handover to civilian rule, the Brotherhood wants a coalition cabinet in which it gets ministries where it can have an immediate impact on people’s lives, such as health, education and transport.

A presidential election could be held sooner than June, if plans now being discussed by an advisory council are approved by the

generals. The council has been suggesting a vote as early as May. “We want to prove to voters that our party can deliver on the needs of Egyptians,” said Hussein Ibrahim, who leads the FJP’s parliamentary bloc. The Brotherhood aims to use the coming four years to seek popular support to curtail the army’s influence over civilian affairs and place presidential powers in the hands of a prime minister chosen by parliament. “After the political situation settles, our goal is a full parliamentary system,” said Katatni.

Mohamed Beltagy of the FJP said that under a parliamentary system, civilian government would take control over defense, foreign affairs and the financial sector.

“These portfolios will come under the parliament’s control in a parliamentary system that we are seeking. But for now in a mixed system the portfolios are shared between the president, parliament and cabinet,” he said. —Reuters

More examples of A380 cracks, repairs under way FRANKFURT: Singapore Airlines said yesterday it had found examples of recently identified wing cracks in all six of the Airbus A380s on which it carried out mandatory inspections, as a senior pilot issued reassurance over the superjumbo’s safety. The discover y of more instances of cracked wing components was expected after Airbus said last week it had found the problem and predicted that until it had time to conduct repairs, a consistent pattern would emerge in further tests.

The European planemaker and airlines insist the world’s largest airliner is safe to fly, but are keen to move beyond the issue of small cracks in wing brackets that grabbed media attention and triggered compulsory checks last week.

The European Aviation Safety Agency ordered carriers to inspect almost a third of the global fleet of A380s, starting with six jets operated by Singapore Airlines, to check for one of two types of cracks that emerged in the space of weeks.

“We found cracks in all six,” the airline’s regional public relations

manager for Europe, Peter Tomasch, said during a press event at Frankfurt Airport. “Four we have repaired and they are flying again.

The other two will follow in the coming days.” EASA ordered the most urgent checks on aircraft that had carried out at least 1,800 takeoffs and landings; the six Singapore

between 1,300 and 1,800 takeoffs and landings, and did not order checks on less heavily used aircraft.

Analysts say publicity over the cracks is unlikely to benefit Airbus rival Boeing in the short term as airlines base their decisions on whether to buy the $390 million jet on the economics of its anticipated

BRISBANE: A picture shows the world’s biggest passenger jet, Airbus A380 touching down at Brisbane International Airport. — AFP Airlines aircraft fell into this categor y. The agenc y gave airlines six weeks to perform checks on a second categor y of jets that had

per formance over many years.

However, some say the problems for Airbus and parent EADS could deepen if the response diver ts

scarce engineering resources or passengers balk at flying on the jet. So far no airlines operating the A380 have reported any dip in bookings.

In a bulletin known as an airworthiness directive, EASA last week gave Singapore Airlines, Dubai’s Emirates and Air France six weeks to examine a further 14 aircraft. In total, 68 superjumbos are in operation and a total of 253 have been sold. Airbus says the cracks were discovered long before they posed a potential safety hazard, but it faces a bill for the checks and repairs which are being carried out at its expense. “ The inspection and repairs are well under way and continuing, in line with the airworthiness directive,” a spokeswoman said.

“Airbus is supplying repair kits as well as providing technical and logistical support to our customers”.

Cracks on what Airbus describes as a handful of the 2,000 L-shaped brackets fixing exterior panels to the ribcage of each 9,100-squarefoot wing first sur faced during repairs to a Qantas A380 that was damaged when an engine exploded in November 2010. —Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Canadian values in spotlight after ‘honor killings’ TORONTO: The “honor killing” of three teenaged Canadian girls by members of their own family has prompted soulsearching in pro-immigration Canada, as it protects minority religious freedoms and upholds its liberal laws.

Muslim groups said their religion could not be blamed for the quadruple murder - an elder relative was also killed in the gruesome outburst of family violence.

All four were found drowned inside a submerged Nissan Sentra that had been pushed into a canal near the eastern Ontario city of Kingston.

Government ministers were quick to condemn the killings, which the prosecution said took place after the three teenagers sought a more liberal lifestyle than the one forced on them by their overbearing Afghan Canadian father. “Honor motivated violence is NOT culture, it is barbaric violence against women. Canada must never tolerate such misogyny as culture,” Rona Ambrose, the government’s min-

News

in brief

ister in charge of women’s rights, wrote on Twitter soon after the Sunday verdicts against the Montreal couple and their eldest son.

A Kingston jury found husband and wife Mohammad Shafia and Tooba Mohammad Yahya, and their son Hamed Mohammad Shafia guilty of four counts of first-degree murder.

They face life in prison, with no chance of parole for 25 years. The victims were three of Hamed’s younger sisters and Mohammad Shafia’s first wife in a polygamous marriage. The case struck a chord in Canada, where growing immigration has led to clashes between Canadian values and the more restrictive traditions of immigrants like the Shafia family. Some Quebec communities recently made headlines by banning headscarves, matching curbs in parts of Europe.

“We’re going to have more immigration in the future, but it does speak to appropriate integration and support of immigrants communities,” said

Nicholas Bala, a family law expert at Queen’s University in Kingston. “They have, on the one side, freedom of religion and we want them to preserve their culture, but also to recognize the importance of Canadian values and culture as well.” Canada accepted some 280,000 new permanent residents in 2010, according to the federal government.

The Shafia family, wealthy and seemingly well-connected in the Montreal business community, immigrated in 2007. The girls, aged 13, 17 and 19 when they died, had reached out to the police, social services and their teachers for help with an abusive family. But Quebec’s child welfare agency determined there was not enough evidence to warrant a court intervention. Not long after the file was closed, the four bodies were found in the submerged car. The three defendants said it was an accident, but were convicted on forensic and wiretap evidence, and partially on circumstantial

evidence that included their Google searches of “how to commit murder”.

Saleha Khan, a representative of the Muslim Resource Centre for Support and Integration in London, Ontario, blamed a lack of communication between police, social workers and cultural associations for not responding to the abuse of the teenagers before it was too late. Khan also noted that the officers and social workers dealing with the affluent family - which owned a strip mall in Laval, Quebec - may have been thrown off by the western clothing, make-up and jewelry that the Shafia daughters wore. “You look at that and you don’t see the stereotypical ‘abused and oppressed, suppressed’ Muslim woman wearing the scarf,” Khan said. “We as service providers do also fall victim to our own stereotypes.”

The United Nations estimates that 5,000 women and girls are murdered each year in so-called honor killings, supposedly to purify a family disgraced by the woman’s conduct, and this was

the motive put forward by the prosecution in the Shafia trial. “So-called honor killings are barbaric and unacceptable and have no place in Canada,” Justice Minister Rob Nicholson told the House of Commons on Monday. “We send the message loudly and clearly: if you commit such terrible acts of violence in Canada, you will face Canadian justice.”

Adeena Niazi, the executive director of the Afghan Women’s Organization in Toronto said the killings were domestic violence, and not motivated by religion, culture or an unwillingness to adapt to Canadian values. “What would happen if the family was not Afghan?

What happens if a person from mainstream kills his girlfriend or wife? Is it a cultural issue? Of course not,” she said, describing the Afghan community in Canada as outraged by the quadruple killings. “Killing is not allowed in the Islamic faith, it is actually denounced,” Niazi said. “Nobody has the right in our religion to take another’s life.” — Reuters

US aims to choke off funds for Iran’s nuclear program lawmakers target affiliates of Revolutionary Guard Corps

AT SEA: A Rafale jet fighter takes off from the flight deck of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier in the Mediterranean sea, as part of the Operation Odyssey Dawn. —AP

India to buy 126 Rafale fighter jets NEW DELHI: India has decided to buy 126 Frenchmade Rafale combat aircraft for the Indian air force, clinching a massive $11 billion defense deal, a top government official said yesterday. The French aviation company Dassault snapped up the $11 billion deal after emerging with the lowest bid in a twoway competition against the Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft, the official said. The official was speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to reporters about the sensitive defense deal. Planes from Boeing Co and Lockheed Martin of the United States and from Russian and Swedish makers were dropped from consideration earlier. The deal is the 1st foreign deal for Dassault’s Rafale fighter jets. India, the world’s biggest arms importer, is being wooed by major international arms manufacturers as it replaces its obsolete Soviet-era weapons. Eighteen fighter aircraft will be delivered in “fly away” condition within 36 months and the remaining 108 are to be built by stateowned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd through technology transfers.

Baboons wreak havoc HARARE: Troops of bag-snatching, truck-looting baboons are causing chaos at a border post between Zimbabwe and Zambia in daily raids for food, NewsDay reported yesterday. “Baboons are an issue that must be dealt with here because they destroy travelers’ goods,” the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority station manager at the Chirundu border post, Tichaona Phiri, told the newspaper.

“Sometimes they bite or clap people on their faces if they try to defend their property and they can snatch ladies’ handbags and even destroy cars as they search for food.” The apes also tear up sacks of maize on trucks moving through the border, a committee of lawmakers was told during a visit to the site, located in a national park. “These baboons can smell maize on trucks and considering their huge numbers, it is very difficult to control them,” the newspaper quoted Phiri as saying. “But the problem is that they behave like human beings and are very good tricksters,” said Phiri.

Finance heavyweight named Taiwan’s PM TAIPEI: Taiwan President Ma Ying-jeou yesterday named a former top financial regulator as the new premier in the hope that he can lead the island through economic trouble caused by the European debt crisis. Sean Chen, 62, was also picked for promoting closer economic cooperation with China while he was the deputy premier, particularly by signing a financial memorandum of understanding, according to the president. “I believe he can use his professionalism, capability and experience to properly handle the possible recession brought by the European debt storm,” Ma said in a statement. Ma was re-elected for a second and final four-year term earlier this month, having picked then incumbent premier Wu Den-yih as his running mate.

Israel detains Palestinian released in Shalit’s swap HEBRON: Israeli troops overnight detained a Palestinian man among those freed from prison last year in exchange for the release of a captured Israeli soldier, Palestinian sources said yesterday. The Israeli military confirmed that it had arrested the man, named by Palestinian security sources as Ayman Sharawna, from the village of Dura, south of the West Bank city of Hebron. A military spokeswoman said, without elaborating, that he was arrested “on suspicion of activity that endangers the security of the area.” Palestinian security sources said troops had arrested Sharawna, 36, in the early hours of yesterday. Sharawna was among 450 Palestinian prisoners freed from Israeli jails in the first stage of a swap that saw militant groups in Gaza release captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit. The deal saw Israel release 1,027 prisoners in exchange for the return of Shalit, who was captured by Gaza militants in 2006.

WASHINGTON: Lawmakers on the US Senate Banking Committee plan to vote on a new round of sanctions targeting Iran’s energy sector, aimed at choking off funds they suspect Tehran uses to develop nuclear weapons. The committee released details of its 61-page bipartisan bill late on Monday and lawmakers will consider the measures and vote on them at a hearing tomorrow. “Iran’s continuing defiance of its international legal obligations and refusal to come clean on its nuclear program underscore the need to further isolate Iran and its leaders,” said Tim Johnson, the Democratic chairman of the committee.

The package comes on the heels of tough new embargoes by European nations and new banking sanctions that President Barack Obama’s administration is beginning to implement - a package signed into law on Dec 31. But Johnson and Richard Shelby, the senior Republican on the committee, said existing sanctions and embargoes have not done enough to force Iran to stop its work on building a nuclear bomb. Iran says its nuclear program is for civilian use only. The House of Representatives has already passed companion legislation in mid-December with many similar provisions.

MORE OIL-RELATED SANCTIONS The draft legislation would require the administration to identify officials, affiliates and agents of Iran’s Revolutionary

Guard Corps within 90 days, and designate them for sanctions. The proposed bill would target companies that do business with the IRGC, which would be “consequential” for the energy sector, said Mark Dubowitz, executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) or have it shipped by the National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC), Dubowitz said in an interview. “They don’t specifically name them, although the current language in the bill would cover them,” he said, noting that there could be amend-

WASHINGTON: (Left-right) FBI Director Robert Mueller, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and CIA Director David Petraeus appear before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence on Capitol Hill yesterday. The committee met to hear testimony on the topic of “World Wide Threats.” — AFP The language could give the United States the legal authority to sanction foreign companies that buy oil from the

ments that would more specifically target the NIOC and NITC as priorities for investigation and sanctions.

Dubowitz said he also hopes to see amendments to the bill that would require oil companies to certify that refined products such as gasoline shipped to the United States do not contain any Iranian crude oil. The proposed bill would penalize US companies whose foreign subsidiaries do business with Iran as well as uranium mining joint ventures with Tehran in other parts of the world.

Also sanctioned would be companies involved in new energy-related joint ventures with Iran in other countries - language that would exempt the Shah Deniz natural gas project in Azerbaijan from sanctions.

The NIOC’s subsidiary, Naftiran Intertrade Co, owns a 10 percent stake in the Shah Deniz project which is co-led by BP PLC and Norway’s Statoil. The House version of the sanctions bill explicitly excluded the project from sanctions. The draft bill would require companies traded on US stock exchanges to disclose any activity in Iran to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which could prompt further sanctions. The bill also would sanction companies that supply Iran with equipment - including telecommunications equipment - used to commit human rights abuses. Similar sanctions proposed by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer against companies selling equipment used in human rights abuses in Syria were not included in the draft bill. — Reuters

Mexican youths forced to work for drug gangs

WASHINGTON: The masked statue of Civil War Gen James B McPherson is seen at the McPherson Square Occupy encampment on K Street in Washington yesterday. The occupiers still occupy McPherson after the noon deadline on the no camping rule set by the National Park Service on January 30. — AFP

‘Socialist’ Obama has US conservatives seeing red TAMPA: A casual observer on the Republican campaign trail could be forgiven for thinking President Barack Obama has traded in his American flag lapel pin for one with a hammer and sickle. To some rightwing Republicans the US leader is a rabid socialist, to others, he’s a card-carrying Marxist. But to most, mention the name “Obama” and they see red.

On the eve of primary elections, one of the loudest battle cries is that the incumbent Democratic president will bring America to ruin-unless a conservative Republican is elected to replace him in November.

Former House speaker Newt Gingrich tried to convince voters late Saturday that he was just such a man, telling supporters at a rally in Palm Beach that unlike Obama he would run an “American campaign” for the presidency. “I am for the Declaration of Independence,” Gingrich proudly proclaimed. “I am for the Constitution.” Obama, by contrast, “is for European Socialism,” the Georgia lawmaker said. Frontrunner Mitt Romney also has been fond of telling his supporters here that Obama is a modern-day Red Menace, warning in a speech this weekend that the president “wants us to turn

into a European-style welfare state.”

That fate, Romney said, would “poison the very spirit of America.” Even former White House hopeful Michele Bachmannwho earlier this month abandoned her White House campaign-took to the airways this weekend to predict the imminent demise of what she described as a radical Obama administration. “Obama will be a one-termer, because all he has been about is redistribution of wealth and the rise of socialist principles,” said Bachmann said in an appearance Sunday on US television. Florida is a key battleground in the November election, as Republicans vie for their party’s presidential nomination amid the hope of turning Obama into a one-term president.

Fears of a Communist scourge are deeply rooted in the American psyche, dating back to the “red scare” at start of the Cold War over half a century ago when thousands of Americans were accused of being Communist sympathizers, and many were persecuted, banned from working and in some cases forced to move abroad. And little distinction is drawn in the United States between the ideological positions of Socialism and Communism. — AFP

MEXICO CITY: Young Mexicans are being abducted from poor towns and villages and forced to work for drug gangs, rights groups say, alleging the authorities are failing to do anything to stem the problem. Stories of young people disappearing, as if swallowed up by the earth, are spreading in parts of Mexico gripped by drug violence which has left some 50,000 dead, according to media counts, in the past five years.

Non-governmental groups in the northern states of Nuevo Leon, where Monterrey lies, as well as Coahuila and Michoacan, to the west, have documented more than 1,000 disappearances from 2007 to 2011.

But they say they cannot prove that the youths were forced into working for organized crime groups which have rained terror on parts of Mexico as they battle for control of the lucrative multibillion dollar drug business. “They tried to take me away around seven months ago,” said one 17-year-old in a recorded testimony obtained by AFP from a nongovernmental organization. The youth, who declined to be named, lives in a poor suburb of Monterrey, a flashpoint in Mexico’s drug wars where the Zetas gang are fighting a vicious turf war with their former employers, the Gulf cartel.

Armed men forced him into a car one night as he talked to a friend on the street. “I was frightened, shaking and shaking,” the youth said, explaining how he tried to persuade the men to release him by appealing to their religious side, and telling them he had a Bible with him. He said he was lucky because they finally let him go. “If you walk the streets after 11:00 pm they abduct you,” warned another youth in the same recording, also requesting anonymity. Requests by AFP to the Mexican attorney general’s office for information and a comment on the official numbers of people who have disappeared were not answered.

But a year ago the National Human Rights Commission, a state body, said there had been around 5,000 disappearances since President Felipe Calderon started a military crackdown on drug gangs in December 2006. Until recently,

many believed the ruthless, powerful drug gangs were filling their ranks with volunteers, including ex-soldiers and expolice, but witness accounts tell a different story. Youths are “massively being abducted,” said Carlos Cruz, an ex-gang member who now heads Citizen Channel, an organization that has rescued almost 4,000 youths from drug gangs since 2003.

Armed men enter marginalized areas and take up to 12-15 young men at a time, Cruz said. “The majority of those we rescued were co-opted into the gangs because of extreme poverty or because they were taking drugs. But the percentage of those being co-opted has been growing” in past years, he said.

Some were being taken to training camps operated by the Zetas in the northern state of Zacatecas and northwestern Sinaloa and Nayarit, he added.

An Ecuadoran who was the only survivor of a massacre of 72 migrants on a ranch in northeastern Tamaulipas state in August 2010 said the migrants had been killed for refusing to go to work for the Zetas.

Forced recruitment has also been reported in the eastern state of Veracruz, according to migrant activist and priest Alejandro Solalinde. A young Mexican in jail for involvement in the massacre of 27 farm workers in Guatemala last May said he had been abducted in Veracruz and forced to work for the Zetas, according to Solalinde. He said he had been told by the governor of Velacruz that it “is the principal state for the forced recruitment” of young people. Blanca Mar tinez, director of the Diocesan Center for Human Rights of Coahuila, said missing men in that state were aged an average 29 years old and included engineers, architects and construction workers.

There were attempts to seek a ransom in only a handful of 228 cases documented between 2007 and 2011, she said, calling on officials to start investigating the apparent forced recruitment.

In western Michoacan, families of the missing meet up to exchange information in the state capital Morelia. — AFP

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France’s Armenia genocide law put on hold

PARIS: A picture shows a general view of the French Senate session for a bill criminalizing the denial of the genocides, including the Armenian genocide. —AFP

PARIS: France’s new law punishing denial of the Armenian genocide was put on hold yesterday after politicians opposed to the legislation demanded that its constitutionality be examined. Turkey reacted furiously last week when the Senate approved the law which threatens with jail anyone in France who denies that the 1915 massacre of Armenians by Ottoman Turk forces amounted to genocide. President Nicolas Sarkozy’s office brushed off angry threats of retaliation by Turkey and vowed to enforce the law within a fortnight. But Yesterday two separate groups of French politicians who oppose the legislationfrom both the Senate and the lower house of parliament-said they had formally requested the constitutional council to examine the law.

The groups said they each had gathered more than the minimum 60 signatures required to ask the council to test the law’s constitutionality. “This is an atomic bomb for the Elysee (Sarkozy’s office) which didn’t see it coming,” said deputy Lionel Tardy,

who said that most of the 65 signatories from the lower house were, like him, from Sarkozy’s UMP party. The council is obliged to deliver its judgment within a month, but this can be reduced to eight days if the government deems the matter urgent.

Turkey’s President Abdullah Gul and Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan immediately welcomed the development.

“I hope the constitutional council will do what is necessary,” said Erdogan, while Gul said he was “not expecting the French from the very beginning to let their country be overshadowed” by the genocide law.

France has already officially recognized the killings as a genocide, but the new law would go further by punishing anyone who denies this with up to a year in jail and a fine of 45,000 euros ($57,000).

Armenians say up to 1.5 million of their forebears were killed in 1915 and 1916 by the forces of Turkey’s former Ottoman Empire.

Turkey disputes the figure, arguing that 500,000 died, and denies this was geno-

cide, ascribing the toll to fighting and starvation during World War I and accusing the Armenians of siding with Russian invaders.

Erdogan last week denounced the law as “tantamount to discrimination and racism” and warned that his Islamist-rooted government would punish Paris with unspecified retaliatory measures if Sarkozy signed it into law. Ankara has already halted political and military cooperation with France and was threatening to cut off economic and cultural ties. Trade between the two states was worth 12 billion euros ($15.5 billion) in 2010, with several hundred French businesses operating in Turkey. Armenia hailed the passage of the bill through the French Senate, with President Serzh Sarkisian writing in a letter to Sarkozy: “France has reaffirmed its greatness and power, its devotion to universal human values.” Around 20 countries have officially recognized the k illings as genocide.

Amnesty International has criticized the French law, saying it would violate freedom of expression.—AFP

Winter cold snap kills 36 in eastern Europe Temperatures plunge to -20 Celsius BELGRADE: A severe and snowy cold snap across central and eastern Europe has left at least 36 people dead, cut off power to towns, and snarled traffic. Officials are responding with measures ranging from opening shelters to dispensing hot tea, with particular concern for the homeless and elderly. This part of Europe is not

her head wrapped in a shawl with only eyes uncovered. “I’m freezing.

It’s hard to get used to it so suddenly.” Officials have appealed to people to stay indoors and be careful. Police searched for the homeless to make sure they didn’t freeze to death. In some places, heaters will be set up at bus stations.

to provide food and heat and closed schools and nurseries.

More than 17,000 people have sought help in such shelters in the past three days, authorities said.

In Poland, at least 10 people froze to death as the cold reached minus 26 C on Monday.

Malgorzata Wozniak, a spokeswoman for Poland’s Interior

BAYRISCHZELL: A group of skiers walk up to the snow covered Wendelstein church on top of the Wendelstein mountain near Bayrischzell, southern Germany yesterday. —AP unused to cold, but the current freeze, which spread to most of the region last week, came after a period of relatively mild weather.

Many were shocked when temperatures in some parts plunged Monday to minus 20 Celsius. “Just as we thought we could get away with a spring-like winter ...” lamented Jelena Savic, 43, from the Serbian capital of Belgrade,

Still, 18 people, most of them homeless, died in Ukraine from hypothermia and nearly 500 people sought medical help for frostbite and hypothermia in just three days last week, the Emergency Situations Ministry said.

Temperatures in parts of Ukraine fell to minus 16 C during the day and minus 23 C in the night.

Authorities opened 1,500 shelters

Nigeria kidnapping like ‘action movie’ BOWDON: Two men came out of nowhere as Greg Ock’s car idled in traffic in a remote Nigerian town. One shot his security guard five times and stole the dead man’s gun, while the other ushered Ock into a tiny getaway car, where a waiting driver sped away. The car weaved through traffic on side roads and then sped to a main road, where police, known there as “mopols,” had erected a roadblock. Ock’s captors crashed through the barricade and traded fire with a truck of police officers, who narrowly missed Ock. “I felt like I was in an action movie,” Ock said at his west Georgia home on Monday, a day after he returned to his family. As they were speeding away from the police, he said he told his guards: “I was more afraid of mopols than you guys.” Ock, 50, was held seven days and then released Friday after he was kidnapped Jan. 20 in Warri, a main city in the Niger Delta, an oil-rich area where foreign firms pump 2.4 million barrels of crude oil a day. Ock worked in construction for decades, landing gigs all over the U.S. and as far away as Abu Dhabi. He loved the work, the camaraderie and the pay, which helped him support a wife and four daughters.

He landed in the Nigerian town of Sapele in September 2010 to begin one of his more adventurous assignments, maintaining gas turbines and other heavy machinery for Marubeni Corp. It was tough work and the perks weren’t enticing. The food was bad, he said, and the heat was unbearable. But he had chances to leave the “little prison” of the company’s base camp, often going on Sundays with co-workers and a security guard to a golf course, or to neighboring Benin to eat at a Chinese restaurant.

His journey the day he was ambushed wasn’t nearly as adventurous. He went with a driver, a security guard and a company secretary to a clinic in Warri, where he would get a checkup for a recent bout with malaria. He took out some cash from an ATM, hopped in the car and tuned his iPod to Don Henley as the driver idled in traffic. What happened next seemed to unfold in a flash. A gunman ran up to his vehicle and yelled “die, mopol, die” as he fired five bullets into the guard. The other gunman ordered Ock out of the car and pushed him toward a tiny red Audi. —AP

Ministry said that elderly people and the homeless were among the dead. Police were checking unheated empty buildings for homeless people they could take to shelters. Warsaw city authorities decided to place more than 40 heaters in the busiest city transport stops to help waiting passengers keep warm. City authorities in the Czech capital of Prague set up

tents for an estimated 3,000 homeless people. Freezing temperatures also damaged train tracks, slowing railway traffic.

In central Serbia, three people died and two more were missing, while 14 municipalities were operating under emergency decrees.

Efforts to clear roads blocked by snow were hampered by strong winds and dozens of towns faced power outages. Police said one woman froze to death in a snowstorm in a central Serbian village, while two elderly men were found dead, one in the snow outside his home. Further south, emergency crews are searching for two men in their 70s who are feared dead.

In Bulgaria, a 57-year-old man froze to death in a northwestern village and emergency decrees were declared in 25 of the country’s 28 districts. In the capital of Sofia, authorities handed out hot tea and placed homeless people in emergency shelters. Strong winds also closed down Bulgaria’s main Black Sea port of Varna, while part of a major highway leading to Bulgaria and Greece from Turkey was closed after a heavy snowfall. Nearly 200 Turkish Airlines flights to and from Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport were canceled, and a city sports hall was turned to a temporary shelter for some 350 homeless people.

The temperature in Turkey’s province of Kars, which borders Armenia, dropped to minus 25 C on Sunday night. The situation was similar in Romania, where reports said four people have died because of freezing weather.

There, authorities sent prison inmates to shovel snow and unblock paths leading to a shelter with some 300 stray dogs and puppies. Weather forecasts say the cold snap will continue. “We are getting some ‘real’ winter this week,” Croatian meteorologist Zoran Vakula said. —AP

2 killed as anger mounts against Senegal’s Wade DAKAR: Senegal readied for fresh protests yesterday after security forces shot dead a 60-year-old woman and a teenager at a rally against President Abdoulaye Wade’s controversial bid for a third term. Tensions have escalated in the West African nation after the constitutional council gave Wade the green light to run in February 26 polls,

DAKAR: Youssou N’Dour, a popular Senegalese singer and one of Africa’s most recognized artists, speaks with journalists during a press conference, discussing his appeal of a Dakar court decision disqualifying him from being a presidential candidate in the Senegalese national election. —AFP prompting international calls for calm and condemnations of violence. Senegal, typically a beacon of democracy among troubled neighbors, was urged by Amnesty International to halt a clampdown on protesters after two people were shot dead by security forces in the northern city of Podor.

“Today’s bloodshed marks a dramatic escalation in the violence that has plagued Senegal in the run-up to its elections,” said Salvatore Sagues, the global rights body’s West Africa researcher. Washington, for its part, urged 85-year-old Wade to allow power to pass “to the next generation”. “While we respect the process, the political and legal process in Senegal, the fact that he’s now been cleared to run, our message to him remains the same: that the statesmanly-like thing to do would be to cede to the next generation, and we think that would be better,” State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told journalists. “Our view is that Senegalese democracy is strong enough to move to the next generation.”

But El Hadj Amadou Salla, minister of state and a senior Wade campaign official, said it was “too late” and the president’s candidacy has already been validated. The country’s opposition has called for mass resistance to force Wade to step aside in the wake of the ruling, which sparked deadly riots Friday in which a policeman was killed. A fresh protest is planned, stoking fears of more violence. The constitutional council on Monday dismissed all appeals against Wade’s candidacy, leaving no legal recourse for opponents who accuse him of carrying out a constitutional coup. A 17-year-old protester and 60-yearold female bystander were shot dead by paramilitary police who “opened fire on a crowd demonstrating against the constitutional council decision” in Podor, said Amnesty. —AFP

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange

Assange takes case to England’s apex court LONDON: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s two-day hearing at England’s Supreme Court gets underway today, in the latest stage of his lengthy battle against extradition to Sweden to face rape allegations. If the court rejects his case, the 40-year-old Australian will have exhausted all his options in Britain but he could still make a last-ditch appeal to the European Court of Human Rights, prosecutors have said. The Supreme Court, England’s highest, granted Assange permission to appeal in December.

It said his case raised an issue of “great public importance”, namely whether Sweden’s state prosecutor had the right to sign the European arrest warrant under which he was held. The case will be considered by seven judges, rather than the usual five. The Supreme Court usually takes about 10 weeks to deliver a judgment but the parties have requested that this case be speeded up. Today marks 421 days since the arrest of the former computer hacker, who has been living under tight bail conditions at the country mansion of a wealthy supporter in Norfolk, eastern England.

Assange was arrested in Britain in December 2010 after two women made allegations of sexual molestation and an accusation of rape in Sweden, which he strongly denies. He says the sex was consensual and claims the allegations are politically motivated, linked to WikiLeaks’ release of hundreds of thousands of classified US files about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as diplomatic cables.

Assange’s extradition to Sweden was initially approved by a lower court in February. An appeal to the High Court was rejected in November, but it subsequently granted him permission to appeal to the Supreme Court.

If this appeal fails, the WikiLeaks founder will have only one other option to stop his extradition-an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights in

Strasbourg. “If the ECHR takes the case then his current bail conditions would remain in force and he would remain in the UK until the proceedings at the ECHR have concluded,” the Crown Prosecution Service said in a commentary on the case. “If the ECHR declines to take the case then he will be extradited to Sweden as soon as arrangements can be made,” England’s state prosecutor said.

Concerning Assange’s case before the Supreme Court, Julian Knowles, an extradition law specialist with the Matrix Chambers law firm, said the question of whether a public prosecutor was a valid judicial authority had been comprehensively tested.

“The courts have always reached the clear answer that while it may look odd to English eyes ... European systems don’t have the same structure,” he was quoted as saying yesterday in The Guardian newspaper. “The courts have always said that to make extradition work, you have to be flexible in your approach to what extradition is.” Were Assange to win, the consequences would be “very profound”, he said. “It would basically mean, until the law is rewritten, that extradition to Europe (would) become very difficult, if not impossible. “Because in the vast majority of European extradition requests, the arrest warrant is issued not by a court, as it would be in England, but by a prosecutor.”

Assange announced last week that he was launching his own television chat show and promised interviews with “key political players, thinkers and revolutionaries”. No guests have been unveiled, but a statement on the WikiLeaks website said the show would go on air in midMarch in 10 weekly half-hour episodes.

Russian state television channel RT said it had the rights to show the episodes first.

Formerly known as Russia Today, the English-language channel is funded by the Russian government. —AFP

African Union extends the mandate of top executive ADDIS ABABA: The African Union yesterday extended the mandate of its top official Jean Ping after an election, in which he was challenged by South Africa’s Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, deadlocked.

“We have decided to prolong the mandate of the current commission until the next summit in Lilongwe Malawi” in June, bloc chairman, Benin’s President Thomas Boni Yayi, said at the end of a two-day summit in Addis Ababa. Intense campaigns had preceded the vote for commission chief which dominated the AU summit in the Ethiopia capital, where leaders gathered to discuss broadening trade within Africa and tackling conflict hot spots.

Gabon’s Ping, 69, who has headed the African Union Commission since 2008, sought a new term but was unable to obtain the required two-thirds majority in a tight race with Dlamini-Zuma, ex-wife of South African President Jacob Zuma. “We went for an election and none of the two candidates emerged as a winner,” Zambian

President Michael Sata told reporters after the vote. Pretoria said that Dlamini-Zuma will vie again for the post. “Nothing stops us from fielding the same candidate because she has shown or proven to be a formidable candidate that the incumbent could not defeat,” South Africa’s International Relations Minister Maite Nkoane Mashabane said in a statement.

Analysts say the vote for the AU agenda-setting position has exposed political fault lines between English- and Frenchspeaking Africa, as well as between different geographic regions. “The result has shown up divides in the continent,” Jakkie Cilliers, executive director of the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) in Pretoria, told AFP at the summit. “South Africa worked hard to reduce Ping’s support base.” But Boni Yayi insisted: “The continent is united and there is hope that it will continue to be united.” Ping led Dlamini-Zuma in the first three rounds with 28 votes to 25, 27 to 26 and 29 to 24, AU sources said. —AFP

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Banned books hot property in censored Vietnam

HANOI: This picture shows Nguyen Thanh Phong, 26-year-old cartoonist, showing some initial paintings of his published book “The murderer with a pus-filled head” at a coffee shop in Hanoi. —AFP

HANOI: From irreverent cartoons to “depraved” short stories, Vietnam’s pop culture is attracting the attention of print censors who experts say are struggling to accept an increasingly brash literary scene.

After years spent keeping political texts off the printing presses, authorities are setting their sights on the growing market of publishing for young people, with several books prohibited in recent months.

Nguyen Thanh Phong, whose collection of comic rhyming slang was recently banned, said his illustration of two gormless-looking soldiers kicking a grenade to each other may have caused the censors’ ire. The caption reads “Being a soldier you must always get noticed”, an attempt to poke fun at the inflated, heroic image of the country’s military. “I just thought it was funny,” said Phong.

The 26-year-old artist said censorship only increased people’s desire to read the book, entitled “The murderer with a pusfilled head”, which aims to reflect the street patois of Vietnam’s youth. Phong said his book sold 5,000 copies in two weeks but was then discontinued, stoking under-thecounter demand that pushed prices to as much as 100,000 dong ($5) - more than double its official cost. Censorship has proved a headache for Vietnamese publishers eager to capitalize on a potentially

rich seam of revenue from the nation’s 28 million under-18s, but it has also given texts an enticing air of notoriety. “It’s an unintended public relations chain effect-in Vietnam, any banned books become bestselling, because people are curious,” Phong said.

The controversy “sparked the interest of a lot of people who would never have even bothered to read it in a bookstore,” said Vietnam expert Edmund Malesky, Associate Professor at the University of California, San Diego.

He added the book “captures all the cool sayings of what they call the 9X generation, those born in the 90s”, a generation surprising older Vietnamese with its “freespiritedness”. Conservatives in Vietnam have found themselves scandalized by the tide of youth culture-from the antics of popular singers to brazen fashion statements on the streets. The publishing industry is seeing a boom in titles for teenagers, varying from non-fiction to translations of the internationally best-selling “Twilight” vampire series.

Vietnam scholar Carl Thayer said more books are being produced aimed at young people, but that “pop culture is definitely at odds with official ideas of Vietnamese culture”. “Since Vietnam is an authoritarian regime, its officials have no way of accu-

rately capturing true public opinion... Deep in their hearts they are fearful of political humor and more overt political publications because it challenges their power and legitimacy,” he said. Reporters Without Borders, which ranked Vietnam 165th in the world for press freedom out of 178 countries in 2010, has said the one-party state retains a tight grip on all media.

Readers don’t want books that have been ‘sanitized’-Vietnamese officials were unable to provide AFP with figures on the number of books banned each year and did not confirm the specific reason for the decision to take Phong’s book off the shelves. Dang Thi Bich Ngan, deputy director of the culture ministry’s Fine Arts Publishing House, said sales of “The murderer” were stopped because of changes made to the approved draft. Another controversial book, a collection of short stories by journalist Nguyen Vinh Nguyen, was banned and its publisher fined for “disseminating depraved and pornographic ideas, not in accordance with Vietnam’s traditions and customs”.

“Readers really want the sort of products of a free publishing environment, rather than what they are given now, which are books that have undergone ‘treatment’ and been sanitized,” Nguyen said. Thayer said Vietnam’s black market

“thrives because it meets a need”. “It provides hard copy of facts and ideas that freely circulate in private conversations,” he said. It did not take long for AFP to track down an illicit copy of “The Murderer” on the streets of Hanoi. One bookseller said she did not keep it on her shop’s shelves and offered to fetch one from the storeroom. But her sales pitch came with the warning that it had corrupted the Vietnamese language: “Do not show it to your children!,” she said.

Many people simply went online to read Phong’s book on the numerous Internet sites hosting copies. “Those who object to the book said if these sentences are circulated on the internet, it’s ok, but not in books. I think because they think books are very noble, like a holy land of knowledge,” Phong said. Censors have indicated a willingness to negotiate a revised version. Phong said he expects some illustrations will be removed and replaced with different popular slang and is confident a new book would not be seen as diluted.

His optimism is perhaps echoed in another quintessentially Vietnamese street saying from his book. An image of a whole dead dog on a dinner plate accompanies the phrase: “Don’t worry, things will be all right, because dog meat is always served with shrimp sauce.” —AFP

60 die as troops, Taleban battle over mountaintop Obama confirms US drone strikes in Pakistan PARACHINAR: Fighting between soldiers and Taleban militants over a strategic mountaintop in northwestern Pakistan has killed more than 60 people, a government official said yesterday. The battle first started a week ago when government troops seized the top of Jogi mountain in the Kurram tribal area from militants, sparking clashes that killed six soldiers and 20 insurgents, said Wajid Khan, a local government administrator.

group aims to topple the Pakistani government, partly because of its alliance with the United States. The militants are allied with the Afghan Taleban, but the latter group has focused its attacks on NATO and Afghan forces inside Afghanistan.

Elsewhere in Pakistan, at least 10 people were gunned down in the past 24 hours in the southern city of Karachi, said Sharfuddin Memon, a security adviser for the government of Sindh province, where Karachi is

appeared to shrug off the confirmation but made a rare public acknowledgement that the program had “tactical advantages”.

Asked about drones in a chat with web users on Google+ and YouTube, Obama said “a lot of these strikes have been in the FATA”-Pakistan’s semi-autonomous Federally Administered Tribal Areas on the Afghan border.

“For the most part, they’ve been very precise precision strikes

PESHAWAR: Pakistani security officials collect evidence at the site of a suicide attack on the outskirts of Peshawar on January 30, 2012. A suicide bomber killed an Islamist militant commander in northwest Pakistan who had escaped two previous assassination attempts, and three other people, police said. —AFP The militants retaliated yesterday by attacking the soldiers who were trying to hold the location, touching off another round of fighting that killed 10 troops and more than 30 insurgents, said Khan. The area is home to militants loyal to Pakistani Taleban commander Hakimullah Mehsud. The military launched an offensive in Kurram in July 2011 and declared victory about a month later, but violence has continued.

A similar process has taken place throughout Pakistan’s semiautonomous tribal region along the Afghan border. The military has launched a series of operations against the Pakistani Taleban in the past few years, and has often declared victory only to see fighting flare up again. The Pakistani Taleban have killed thousands of people throughout the country in suicide bombings and other attacks. The

the capital. Karachi is Pakistan’s largest city and has a long history of political, ethnic and sectarian violence. The most recent deaths included two granddaughters of Akbar Bugti, a nationalist leader in southwestern Baluchistan province who was killed during a military operation in 2006 ordered by former President Pervez Musharraf. His death has helped fuel a violent insurgency in Baluchistan against the government.

US DRONE STRIKES Meanwhile, President Barack Obama has confirmed for the first time that US drones have targeted Taleban and Al-Qaeda militants on Pakistani soil, a program that has escalated under his administration.

The government in Islamabad, whose relations with Washington sank to an all-time low last year,

against Al-Qaeda and their affiliates, and we’re very careful in terms of how it’s been applied,” Obama said on Monday. “This is a targeted focused effort at people who are on a list of active terrorists, who are trying to go in and harm Americans, hit American facilities, American bases, and so on.” He said that many strikes were carried out “on Al-Qaeda operatives in places where the capacities of that military in that country may not be able to get them”, such as Pakistan’s lawless tribal zone. “For us to be able to get them in another way would involve probably a lot more intrusive military action than the ones we’re already engaging in.”

US officials say Pakistan’s tribal belt provides sanctuary to Taleban fighting in Afghanistan, Al-Qaeda groups plotting attacks on the West, Pakistani Taleban who routinely

bomb Pakistan and other foreign fighters. According to an AFP tally, 45 US missile strikes were reported in Pakistan’s tribal belt in 2009, 101 in 2010 and 64 in 2011. The New America Foundation think tank in Washington says drone strikes in Pakistan have killed between 1,715 and 2,680 people in the past eight years. Human rights campaigners have expressed deep concern over increased use of drone strikes. The State Department also confirmed it used surveillance drones to protect US diplomats in so-called “critical threat environments” overseas.

The United States had until now refused to discuss the strikes publicly, but the program has dramatically increased as the Obama administration looks to withdraw all foreign combat troops from Afghanistan by the end of 2014. US diplomatic cables leaked by WikiLeaks in late 2010 showed that Pakistan’s civilian and military leaders privately supported US drone attacks, despite public condemnation in a country where the US alliance is hugely unpopular.

“Notwithstanding tactical advantages of drone strikes, we are of the firm view that these are unlawful, counterproductive and hence unacceptable,” foreign ministry spokesman Abdul Basit said yesterday. Relations between the United States and Pakistan deteriorated sharply in 2011, over the covert American raid that killed AlQaeda chief Osama bin Laden in May and US air strikes that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers in November.

Islamabad is now reviewing its entire alliance with the United States and has kept its Afghan border closed to NATO supply convoys since November 26.

It ordered US personnel to leave Shamsi air base in western Pakistan, widely believed to have been a hub for the CIA drone program, and is thought likely to only reopen the Afghan border by exacting taxes on convoys. But analyst Imtiaz Gul, who has written extensively about Pakistan’s tribal belt, said Islamabad was hemmed in by its US alliance and stands to lose more than it would gain by ending its cooperation with the war in Afghanistan. “Geostrategic compulsions arising out of partnership with the United States and other allies basically restrict Pakistan from taking a public position on the drone strikes,” he said. The review of the alliance will not result in any “earth-shattering recommendations”, he said. — Agencies

Paris upends NATO exit strategy in Afghanistan WASHINGTON: France’s decision to withdraw combat troops from Afghanistan a year earlier than planned deals a blow to the US-led war effort and threatens to trigger a “rush to the exits” by other NATO members, experts said Monday. President Nicolas Sarkozy’s surprise announcement to pull out his country’s forces in 2013 “upends a well-planned, well laid-out NATO strategy of transition in Afghanistan going through 2014,” said Damon Wilson, executive vice president of the Atlantic Council and former White House official.

At a meeting of defense ministers this week in Brussels, an anxious United States will be engaging in a round of “damage control” to shore up the alliance’s agreed upon timeline,

Wilson told reporters. “You’re going to look for the US trying to have as many defense ministers to their press conferences, restating their commitment to the NATO strategy” for a 2014 withdrawal, he told an event organized by the Atlantic Council think tank.

Days after the killing of four French troops by a renegade Afghan soldier, Sarkozy said France’s combat forces would leave in 2013 and called on other NATO states to shift to an earlier timetable. Sarkozy’s abrupt change in course last week represents a “stunning” unilateral move that poses “a real challenge to NATO leadership and (President Barack) Obama’s leadership,” said Ian Brzezinski, a former Pentagon official under George W Bush’s presidency. Sarkozy had done much to repair

France’s ties with Washington and NATO in the wake of a bitter falling out over the Iraq war, winning praise for his stance on Afghanistan, Iran’s nuclear program and his leading role in the NATO-led air war in Libya.

But the decision to speed up the French military withdrawal from Afghanistan despite a NATO consensus is seen as a betrayal in Washington and London and will damage Paris’s credibility in the alliance, analysts and former officials said. “One of Sarkozy’s most prominent achievements has been to rehabilitate France’s reputation in London and in Washington, that France can be a trusted ally, that it’s taking its place within NATO,” said Jeffrey Lightfoot, deputy director of Atlantic Council’s International Security Program. —AFP

ALLAHABAD: Samajwadi Party supporters raise their hands as they listen to party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav at an election rally in Allahabad, India yesterday. India’s biggest state, Uttar Pradesh, will be choosing its state assembly in elections starting next week. —AP

Mumbai gunman Kasab appeals death penalty NEW DELHI: The lone surviving gunman from the 2008 Mumbai attacks began a Supreme Court appeal against his death sentence yesterday by claiming that he had not been given a fair trial. A lawyer read out a statement in court from Mohammed Kasab, one of 10 gunmen who laid siege to Mumbai in the attacks that lasted nearly three days and killed 166 people. The 24-year-old Pakistani has appealed for his death penalty to be overturned after he was convicted in 2010 for a series of crimes, including waging war against India, murder and terror acts.

“I have been wrongly held guilty because I was denied a fair trial. I was denied a counsel,” Kasab said in the statement read by his court-appointed lawyer Raju Ramachandran. “The prosecution has failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt the charges against me... I may be guilty of killing people and carrying out a terrorist act but I am not guilty of waging war against the state.” The November 2008 attacks saw 10 heavily-armed Islamist gunmen storm targets in Mumbai including luxury hotels, a Jewish centre and a train station. Two judges in New Delhi are hearing the appeal, which was briefly adjourned in the morning when one judge was unavailable due to other Supreme Court duties.

India blames the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militant outfit for training, equipping and financing the Mumbai gunmen with support from “elements” in the Pakistan military. Kasab’s death sentence was confirmed by a state high court in Mumbai last year. If he loses

his Supreme Court appeal, he can lodge a final appeal for clemency with the president. Ujjwal Nikam, who prosecuted the case in Mumbai on behalf of the Maharashtra state, is seeking to push through the death sentence. “This is the rarest of rare cases,” Nikam said ahead of the hearing. “He should not be entitled to any mercy.”

At the trial, the prosecution produced fingerprint, DNA, eyewitness and TV evidence showing Kasab opening fire and throwing grenades at Mumbai’s main railway station in the bloodiest episode of the attacks. Kasab-who is in jail in Mumbai-initially pleaded not guilty but later made a confession, admitting to being one of the gunmen sent by the banned LeT militant group. Pakistan has indicted seven alleged perpetrators over the attacks but they have not been brought to trial, triggering Indian accusations that the process is a sham.

Pakistani investigators and lawyers will visit India next month to gather more evidence ahead of any trial in Islamabad. Most death sentences in India are commuted to life imprisonment, and convicts can sit on death row for years awaiting a final decision. But the Mumbai attacks horrified the nation as each development unfolded live on television, and there have been widespread public calls for Kasab’s execution. The last execution in India was in 2004 when a 41year-old former security guard was hanged for the rape and murder of a schoolgirl. Many of the small number of known hangmen nationwide have either died or retired in recent years. —AFP

Chinese dissident tried over Skype messages and poem BEIJING: Chinese prosecutors cited a poem and messages sent on Skype against a dissident who stood trial yesterday, his son and his lawyer said, in the latest case highlighting the Communist Party’s drive to silence political challengers. Veteran activist Zhu Yufu faced trial in the prosperous eastern city of Hangzhou, where police arrested him in April and charged him with “inciting subversion of state power”, his lawyer, Li Dunyong, said. The court did not deliver its verdict straight away. But Zhu, 60, appears likely to follow other Chinese dissidents who have received stiff prison terms from the party-run judiciary on subversion charges, which are often used to punish ardent advocates of democratic change.

In Zhu’s case, the prosecutors cited his poem, “It’s time”, as well as text messages that he sent using the Skype online chat service, said Li. There was no suggestion that Skype helped police to collect evidence, he told Reuters by telephone. “They took his comput-

er away from his home and went through it,” he said of the Hangzhou police. “His Internet contacts and password were saved on it, with automatic access, and when the police accessed it they could open the records of text messages saved on Skype. He had not erased the records.” Skype’s online telephone and messaging service has become popular among Chinese activists as a cheap and relatively secure way to communicate.

Zhu’s wife, Jiang Hangli, told Reuters that she feared that he could join other dissidents recently given prison terms of nine years and longer for subversion. Chinese courts rarely find in favor of defendants. “I hope he won’t face trouble, but that’s a wish. I don’t think that they’ll let him off lightly,” Jiang said in a telephone interview before the trial. China’s Communist leaders are steeling for a leadership handover late this year, and their longstanding determination to stifle political challenges is likely to deepen. —Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

NEWS KUWAIT: Kuwaitis go about their business at Souq Mubarakiya yesterday. – AFP

‘Influential people’ backing Juwaihel...

Continued from Page 1 at least “don’t let these disputes impact the country”.

The gathering was being held amid reports that a warrant was issued to arrest Juwaihel, whose whereabouts are still unknown.

Former MP Faisal Al-Mislem said that people turned out in thousands for the sake of Kuwait and against “a complete plot to destroy the country to serve the interest of an individual” whom he did not name. “We are here to defend the country and not against an individual or a television station” he said.

Earlier, the Amiri Diwan yesterday strongly condemned Juwaihel. The statement of the Diwan came as HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah received 12 former opposition MPs and discussed with them the situation. ExMP Mubarak Al-Waalan said the Amir expressed total rejection of harming any section of the Kuwaiti society, including tribes, and confirmed that action will be taken against Juwaihel and local private TV station SCOPE which aired his election rally in Adailiya in which he insulted the Mutairi tribe.

Former MP Shuaib Al-Muwaizri said that the Amir informed them that he was disgusted by the abuse against the Mutairi tribe, insisting that Kuwait is a state of law and that the law will be applied strictly, and that he will not allow anyone to undermine Kuwait’s national unity. In its statement, the Amiri Diwan called for restraint and urged Kuwaitis to stay away from anything that may fuel sectarian and factional divisions in the society. It also described the incident as painful and “contrary to the Kuwaiti values and traditions” that risked to undermine national unity in Kuwait ahead of the general elections. The statement said that orders were issued to take the necessary legal actions against all those who contributed to the incident and instigated people.

Rumours and unconfirmed reports said that an interior ministry committee was set up to look into the issue of again disqualifying Juwaihel from running in the election.

No official statement has been issued on the type of measures that would be taken. Lawyer Mohammad Munwer AlMutairi yesterday filed an urgent lawsuit calling on the court to disqualify Juwaihel and the court is hearing the

case today. If disqualified, his name will be taken off the candidates’ list but he still can challenge the decision in court. Several candidates called off their final rallies yesterday and decided to join Barrak’s rally in a show of solidarity against Juwaihel and those standing behind him.

Political groupings and candidates running in tomorrow’s National Assembly elections blasted Juwaihel for his abusive remarks against the Mutairi tribe, the second largest bedouin tribe in Kuwait, as the remarks and the burning of his tent dominated the political scene in the country with just two days to go for the polls. The liberal Democratic Forum and the Progressive Movement, in addition to a large number of candidates, strongly criticised Juwaihel and warned of the consequences of the incident on the Kuwaiti society.

Juwaihel had reportedly used abusive language against the Mutairi tribe at an election rally late Monday. Angry tribesmen, infuriated by his remarks and failure of the interior ministry to take any action, attacked his election tent in Adailiya and then set it on fire. The Democratic Forum said in a brief statement that the abusive remarks and the retaliation took place while authorities remained spectators, and warned that such incidents can lead to serious divisions in the society.

The Progressive Movement charged the government and official agencies have deliberately remained silent and did not interfere in what happened, and charged that influential people are behind deliberate campaigns and propaganda instigating tribal, racist and sectarian hatred in the society. The movement however warned of the serious and dangerous consequences from taking the law into the hands of some people because this will only lead to chaos and internal conflicts in Kuwait. The Lawyers Association also condemned Juwaihel for his derogatory remarks but also criticised the unlawful retaliation, blaming the authorities for the incident for failure to promptly apply the law.

Condemnations of the incident and the retaliation came also from the Islamic Salaf Alliance, the Islamic Constitutional Movement and the National Democratic Alliance, with all urging the application of the law on all fairly and equally. Former Shiite MP Rola Dashti however described the attack on Juwaihel’s tent as a “terrorist attack” and called on authorities to act quickly.

Syria troops push back rebels, UN fight...

Continued from Page 1 captured the area in a startling advance last week. The fact that rebels made it to the doorstep of Damascus, the seat of Assad’s power, was a dangerous development for the regime. The military launched a swift offensive, Monday and yesterday, and crushed the remaining resistance in Zamalka and Arbeen. But the suburbs were not entirely quiet. On a government-sponsored media trip, Syrian journalists heard at least seven explosions Tuesday from the eastern suburb of Rankous. It was not clear what caused the blasts.

Violence also was reported in the Baba Amr neighborhood of Homs in central Syria, a hotbed of opposition to the regime. Activist Mohammed Saleh said he heard hours of shelling and machine-gun fire, and thick black smoke was rising in the distance. The smoke was believed to be from a pipeline that was struck, but details were not clear. Activists said regime forces’ fire hit the pipeline, but that could not be confirmed.

The UN estimated several weeks ago that more than 5,400 people have been killed in the Syrian government crackdown, but has not been able to update the figure. The death toll from Monday’s offensive was around 100 people, making it among the bloodiest days since the uprising began in March, according to the British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights and the Local Coordination Committees, an opposition group. Activists said yesterday’s death toll was at least seven, although the LCC put the figure at up to 28. Syria prevents independent reporting, making it difficult to confirm events on the ground.

The bloodshed in Syria has increased in recent days as

Western and Arab countries stepped up pressure on Russia over Security Council action. The draft resolution demands that Assad halt the crackdown and implement an Arab peace plan that calls for him to hand over power to his vice president and allow creation of a unity government to clear the way for elections. If Assad fails to comply within 15 days, the council would consider “further measures”, a reference to a possible move to impose economic or other sanctions.

A French official said the draft UN resolution has a “comfortable majority” of support from 10 of the Security Council’s 15 members, meaning Russia or China would have to use their veto power to stop it. Russia had agreed to negotiate on the draft, said the official spoke on condition of anonymity in accordance with department rules. French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe, who was planning to attend the Security Council meeting, ruled out foreign military action. “Things are very different from what happened in Libya,” he told French radio Europe-1 shortly before flying to New York yesterday. “For example, in Syria you have communities that are divided and any exterior intervention could lead to a civil war.”

The Syrian uprising, which began with mostly peaceful protests, has become increasingly violent in recent months as army defectors clash with government forces and some protesters take up arms to protect themselves. The violence has inflamed the sectarian divide in the country, where members of Assad’s Alawite sect dominate the regime despite a Sunni Muslim majority. Assad’s regime has warned that the turmoil will throw Syria into chaos, religious extremism and sectarian divisions, a message that resonates among Alawites and minority Christians who fear reprisals from the Sunni majority. —AP

Islamist-led oppn tipped to win poll KUWAIT: The Islamist-led opposition appears headed for a key victory in tomorrow’s general election, described as crucial for the future of the state. The outcome of ballot, the fourth in just under six years, is not expected to end political turmoil that has paralysed development in OPEC’s third largest oil producer, however. “All indications show the opposition dominating the next parliament and immediately pressing for constitutional reforms,” said Saad bin Taflah, a prominent political analyst. “But I am not optimistic the elections will lead to political stability unless fundamental democratic reforms are undertaken,” bin Taflah, a former information minister, told AFP. The opposition is a loose formation of Islamists, liberals, nationalists and independents who can be united on reforms and development plans but differ on other issues.

“Thursday’s polls will not lead to stability because enemies of democracy will not remain silent after their defeat,” another analyst, Anwar Al-Rasheed, said. “Their plan is to convince people that democracy is harmful and it is the parliament that is blocking development projects,” said the secretary general of the Gulf Civil Society Forum.

The opposition groups held around 20 seats in the 50member National Assembly which HH the Amir dissolved in December following a bitter political crisis and youth-led street protests inspired by the Arab Spring. “Based on our studies and polls, I believe the opposition will win between at least 26 and 33 seats,” said Talal Al-Kashti, general manager of Ittejahat Studies and Research Centre, an independent think-tank. “(Sunni) Islamists are expected to double their strength to between 15 and 19 seats,” up from nine in the dissolved chamber, Kashti told AFP. About 50 opposition candidates are among 286 hopefuls, including 23 women, competing for seats. Kuwait has more than 400,000 eligible voters, 54 percent of them women. Thirty-eight of the 50 members of the dissolved house are contesting for seats, in addition to 20 former MPs from previous assemblies. Women hope to repeat their landmark achievement of the last election when they

won four seats for the first time since securing full political rights in 2006. Campaigning has been described as the fiercest in many years with candidates calling for deep reforms, using the huge income from oil to fund development and anti-corruption legislation. The public prosecutor has questioned 13 ex-MPs on charges that millions of dinars were illegally deposited in their local bank accounts, with the opposition alleging the payments were bribes.

The poll comes against a backdrop of intense sectarian tensions between the majority Sunnis and Shiite minority, reflecting regional conflicts. It also follows the unprecedented youth-led protests that eventually forced former prime minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad AlSabah to step down. “Kuwait is on the verge of a fierce and decisive battle between youths and reformists on the one hand and the forces of corruption on the other,” independent candidate Abdullah Al-Ahmad told an election rally Sunday. “This election is completely different from all previous elections... as it will determine the future course of Kuwait,” former liberal MP and candidate Abdulrahman AlAnjari told a rally Monday night.

Opposition candidates have warned that if “forces of corruption” win the election, they will destroy the democratic system and steal the country’s assets, estimated at more than $300 billion. Candidates also urged the ruling family to end infighting among its members and to stop interfering in the elections. “A section of the ruling family and the government still does not believe in democracy and this is the main problem,” Rasheed said.

Kuwait allowed for the first time about 25 international and 300 local observers to monitor the elections.

Regardless of the election results, the prime minister will be a senior member of the ruling Al-Sabah family, which also occupies the key portfolios of defence, interior and foreign affairs. Under Kuwaiti law, at least one elected MP must be included in the Cabinet but unelected ministers become members in parliament and enjoy voting powers, an issue that was criticised by candidates. — AFP

Bahraini detainees go on hunger strike Continued from Page 1 Sunni Muslim opposition leader. Sharif’s wife Farida Ismail said prison authorities had removed privileges such as access to television to try to force the men to end the hunger strike in Jau prison. She said they were being force fed. “These trials were political, they were just revenge by the government,” she said at Waad headquarters.

An interior ministry statement said the hunger strikers were being properly cared for. “While it is regrettable that this action may cause additional hardship for the detainees or put their health at risk, they do have the right to refuse food,” it said, citing general inspector Ibrahim Habib. “All of the inmates have been provided with regular medical care that is available to them 24 hours a day.”

A rights commission on the unrest reported in November that detainees had been tortured. It criticised military trials and advised the authorities to have jail sentences reviewed. The government, under outside pressure to implement the recommendations, has said a judicial panel will review some sentences. But they have not questioned the military verdict against the 21 protest leaders, who have the right to take the case to the cassation court, the highest appeal court.

A government official expressed hope some of the jailed protest leaders would be freed but said others had planned an Islamist coup. “I am hopeful that a lot of the

cases will be reviewed, but there are some cases to go through and cases have been transferred to the civilian courts,” said Sheikh Abdul-Aziz bin Mubarak Al-Khalifa, a senior adviser at the Information Affairs Authority and former ambassador to London. “I’m hopeful for not necessarily all of them, but at least some of them ... There are those in prison who called for a restructuring of the country’s institutions, for a full-blown revolution and who called for an Islamic republic using non-peaceful methods,” he said.

Al-Haq and two other parties, Wafa and the Freedom Movement, formed a “Coalition for a Republic” during the protests that called for the creation of a democratic republic. Bahrain remains in turmoil with daily clashes in Shiite towns and villages between protesters and riot police that have become more violent in recent weeks.

The economy of Bahrain, a banking and tourism hub, has been shaken by the unrest. The daily Al-Ayyam - owned by a media adviser to the king - reported yesterday that contacts had begun with unnamed political forces for a new national dialogue “to bring Bahrainis together and strengthen national unity”.

Opposition politicians said no one had contacted them and the report was window-dressing ahead of the Feb 14 anniversary. Since the uprising, the government has strengthened parliament’s power to monitor the cabinet, but has not reacted to opposition demands for a fully empowered elected parliament able to form a government. — Reuters

14

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

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Issues

Cairo’s book fair is back

By Joseph Mayton ne-year ago Egypt was embroiled in massive street protests. A Day of Rage was occurring as the country rose up after decades of dictatorship to force out their aging dictator, who had exclaimed years before that he would “remain in office until death.” Like much else in the country back then, the Cairo International Book Fair fell victim to the chaos. Protests and strikes are still the norm in Egypt, where many fear the gains of a year earlier are threatened by the interim government of generals ruling Egypt. But the book fair is back. Some 745 publishers from 29 countries (17 of them Arab) are taking part in the fair, which runs until February 7.

And revolution is in the air. Besides the usual cultural activities, a section this year is dedicated to the testimonies of the revolutionaries. Tunisia, the birthplace of the Arab Spring, is the guest of honor, with a group of the country’s intellectuals and artists attending in order to share their experience with revolution.

Amnesty International, the London-based human rights movement, is displaying its literature at this year’s fair, a first ever for the organization, which has had a testy relationship with Egypt’s interim military government.

A week since the fair opened on Jan 22 organizers told The Media Line they have not seen as many people as years past, but the event has literature connoisseurs excited. Ordinary fair goers seem to be authentically sharing in this year’s theme. Sharif Abdel Moneim, a school teacher, brought his three children, aged 10, 12 and 13, to the fair, hoping they would peruse and choose books to read at home. The topic they want to read about more than any other, he says, is the protests that ousted President Hosni Mubarak a year ago. “We came yesterday and all they wanted were books on the revolution. They want to know what happened and what people were doing. It is refreshing to see and I think good for the country,” he added. “It’s always great to see all the different people out and getting books to take home and read.”

Amani Eltunsi is one of the few young Egyptians who have seen opportunity in the newfound freedoms, even if they have eroded somewhat since the early days of the revolution as the interim military government brings back some of the Mubarak-era restrictions on freedom of expression. She took to her computer to write. Her English-language book A Girl’s Wishes From Tahrir Square, is available at book shops across the country, and people are picking it up in order to have a glimpse into the daily lives of Egyptian youth, especially women. “I was inspired to share my story - the positives and the negatives - and to let people know we are here,” Eltunsi told The Media Line in an e-mail, The young woman heads the publishing house Shabab Books, which aims to enable the youth who experienced the revolution to tell their story. It has published a number of shorter volumes on the 18 days of uprising. But the popular titles are those like Eltunsi, where women are finally revealing more about life in Egypt in the post-Mubarak era. Dating, eating, hanging out with friends, family and, of course, their experience during the revolution. “It is an opportunity to break through the barriers that people think exist in Egypt and to speak out in this country after the revolution,” Eltunsi added.

Tunisia, this year’s guest of honor, began the Arab Spring a few weeks before Egypt’s own uprising started, ousting its president and setting into motion the wave of in popular uprisings in Bahrain, Yemen, Libya and Syria. Some successful, others still in limbo, but the fear that had been part of the Arab psyche toward their leaders has dissipated. And with it the desire to tell the story. This is what makes this year’s book fair so important. It is, truly, a revolutionary tale. Lining almost every stall are titles ranging from Tweets from Tahrir, 18 Days of Struggle to What Made the Egyptian Revolution.

Together with the birthplace of the Arab Spring, Egyptians and the world are feeling the excitement of the revolution through the written word. “I think what we are really seeing right now is the sense of freedom and the need to tell our story to people,” says Hamed Radwan, the manager of a small stall at the fair. He too says the majority of the titles he has sold are books on the revolution. “We are selling a massive number of books this year even though the revolutionary ones are the most popular,” he added.— Media Line

O

All articles appearing on these pages are the personal opinion of the writers. Kuwait Times takes no responsibility for views expressed therein. Kuwait Times invites readers to voice their opinions. Please send submissions via email to: opinion@kuwaittimes.net or via snail mail to PO Box 1301 Safat, Kuwait. The editor reserves the right to edit any submission as necessary.

From darkest India, an enlightened leader

By Raju Gopalakrishnan and John Chalmers here’s an apocryphal story about Bihar, a sprawling state on the Gangetic plains of eastern India that for decades held the dubious honour of being the most violent, poverty-stricken and corrupt in the land. A Japanese minister visiting in the 1990s, shocked at the decrepit buildings, the darkness at night even in the centre of town and the crumbling roads, declared that it was all solvable. “Give me three years,” he told a state leader, “and I can turn Bihar into Japan.” “That’s nothing,” came the laconic reply from his host. “Give me three days and I will turn Japan into Bihar.”

Bihar is no longer the butt of jokes, however, not since Nitish Kumar took charge of the ruined state in 2005 and began to turn it around - winning such respect that he stands a decent chance of one day becoming prime minister of India. “My first priority was governance, my second priority was governance and my third priority was governance,” Chief Minister Kumar told Reuters at his office in the state capital, Patna, a dusty city where property prices have soared to levels paid in far away New Delhi, even as its streets teem with the desperately poor. “Bihar suffered not because of bad governance but because of a lack of governance.” When India launched reforms to open up its statestifled economy 20 years ago, many states surged ahead, leaving behind the 3.5 percent “Hindu rate of growth” that had plagued the decades after the country’s independence from Britain in 1947, and with it Bihar. Bihar is still India’s most impoverished state: landlocked, not blessed with resources and prone to catastrophic flooding, its annual per-capita income of about $400 is just a third of the national average. Its 104 million overwhelmingly farmdependent people have India’s worst literacy rate and the lowest proportion of households with electricity, and the state scores miserably on the UN’s Human Development Index.

It’s hard to imagine that in ancient times Bihar was the centre of the flourishing Magadha empires and the region where the Buddha lived and attained enlightenment. And yet the state’s dismally low income level has grown 250 percent since Kumar took the helm, more than double the national average. The growth of its economy has surged into double figures to become India’s second-fastest growing state, driven by hefty public spending on roads and buildings and rapid expansion in services such as hotels and restaurants.

T

Restoring Faith Kumar has done much more than bring growth.

Working until midnight most days for the past six years, he has declared war on crime and corruption, introduced an act that gives citizens the right to efficient public services, launched a frenzy of road-building, empowered women and promoted education, offering a free bicycle to every girl that registers in a Grade 9 class. “Everything had gone to the dogs,” said Prakash Jha, one of Bihar’s favourite sons, a Bollywood filmmaker who has chronicled many of the state’s ills, including the once-thriving industry of kidnapping businessmen. “What Nitish Kumar has been able to do is restore faith in the society of Bihar. We had almost given up, but now you feel you can do things in Bihar,” said Jha, who has put his money where his mouth is, spending $12 million on a shopping mall and cinema multiplex in Patna, the state’s first.

Kumar is not without detractors: critics say he is poor at delegating, causes bottlenecks by amassing all decisionmaking in his office and accomplishes far less than he claims. “This is a government of denting, painting and decorating,” said state opposition leader Abdul Bari Siddiqui.

“It’s all on the surface. Nitish Kumar will hold a ceremony to inaugurate the ditch and then another for the bridge built over it.” Still, the contrast between the hyperactive chief minister of Bihar and the central government in New Delhi could hardly be more stark after months of drift and policy paralysis under Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that have contributed to a slowdown in the country’s stellar economic growth.

An Ideology of Humanism A vegetable garden borders the path that leads to the simple Patna bungalow where the chief minister has his office. On a shelf inside his sparsely furnished room, there are several trophies awarded by media groups for “Indian of the Year”. There is just one picture on the wall, an image of Mahatma Gandhi, father of independent India. Kumar’s father was a freedom-fighter during British rule, but the son has always been implacably opposed to the Congress party that led the struggle for independence and its Nehru-Gandhi dynasty of leaders, defining himself more by his vision of social justice than any political group.

“His is not an ideology of a political party, it’s an ideolo-

gy of humanism,” said M J Akbar, one of India’s best-known newspaper editors and a former member of parliament for a Bihar constituency. Meticulously turned out in a creaseless cream tunic, sleeveless Nehru jacket and a grey scarf, 60-year-old Kumar smiles gently as he explains his style of governance: “pro-poor and pro-people”. An engineering graduate, Kumar first got a toehold in state politics and then in New Delhi, where he was a member of parliament and the country’s railways minister in a coalition led by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

He won elections in Bihar for his Janata Dal (United) party six years ago and, in a ringing endorsement of his policies, he was voted back to power in 2010. Kumar’s party is still aligned with the BJP, and popular wisdom has it that if their coalition wins the general election in 2014 he could be a strong contender to become prime minister. Does he dream of leading the country one day? “Not really,” he says diffidently. “Serving my own people gives me satisfaction. I don’t have any ambition. I don’t have that kind of desire.”

Not content to sit in Patna for long, Kumar gets around Bihar’s 38 districts, talking to people on streets and in village squares to find out what they want fixed. These audiences are followed by meetings with district officials at which he prods the state’s bureaucracy to respond. “Why is there darkness around the lamp?” he asked at one such meeting in Patna recently, when he was informed that a scheme to provide free meals for schoolchildren was least effective in and around the city. “This is the capital, you all live here, we have to improve this.”

Later, when told of plans to hire more land records staff, he instructed officials to make sure there were desks and

erant of the graft around him. Law and order remains a serious problem, too. In 2010, Bihar ranked second among the country’s states for the number of people killed in violent crimes, and police seize tens of thousands of illegal firearms every year. Still, many feel that Bihar is a safer place since Kumar launched an anti-crime drive. Residents now feel less frightened to drive at night in rural areas, where roadside hold-ups and kidnappings were once routine. “Five years ago, if we had to travel from Gaya to Patna, we would leave by 3 in the afternoon so we could get to the city before dark,” said Navendu Kumar Thakur, who runs a construction company in the state. Gaya is about 100 km south of the state capital. “Now, it doesn’t matter if we leave at 9 at night, there’s no problem on the road.”

Kumar says restoring faith in the police and judiciary was a top priority. “A reign of terror used to prevail in the society, Bihar used to be in the news for all the wrong reasons,” he said. “My first task was to ensure rule of law and trust in the system.”

Weak Economic Base With the improvement in law and order, there has been tentative interest in setting up industries in Bihar, which is 90 percent dependent on agriculture after the mineral-rich region of Jharkhand was hived off into a separate state in 2000. New industries in Bihar can receive up to 300 percent of capital invested in VAT refunds over 10 years, in addition to a host of other incentives. “He (Kumar) has shown that grass can grow in a desert,” said Prem Kumar Agrawal, partowner of a biscuit-making plant in the Hajipur industrial park near Patna, where half a dozen factories have opened

Students from lower castes attend a prep school in Patna. – MCT offices ready for them. “We don’t want them loitering in the corridors,” he said, his voice restrained but still dominating the room filled with more than 100 bureaucrats. This direct and no-nonsense delivery belies his apparent bonhomie.

“He is a very confident person who disguises his confidence with a great amount of modesty,” said Akbar.

Votes are ‘Caste’ It is sometimes said that in Bihar people “don’t cast their votes, they vote for their caste”. That is because, besides being blighted by poverty, its people have long been sharply divided by Hinduism’s social hierarchy. In the fairly recent past, upper and lower caste groups kept private armies, and pitched battles between them or massacres by one side or another were common. Fanning the castebased politics of Bihar in the 1990s was Lalu Prasad Yadav, now a lawmaker in New Delhi. A charismatic leader from a “backward” caste whose trademark humour can make a budget speech sound like a stand-up routine, Yadav’s reign was dubbed the “Jungle Raj” as the rule of law broke down.

Kumar also belongs to a minority “backward” caste and was aligned with Yadav for years before they parted ways.

One factor behind his rise has been his resolve to woo voters not by social blocs but on the basis of his government’s performance. “Caste is the reality in the Indian system, but I have proved that caste does not decide the outcome of an election,” he said. Corruption is still endemic despite Kumar’s crackdown. He has confiscated the houses of two corrupt officials to turn them into schools, and many others face the same fate, but critics say he is actually too tol-

in the past six months. With 300 workers, his enterprise produces 70-75 tonnes of biscuits per day. “I give Nitish 9 out of 10 in terms of industrial policy,” Agrawal said. “Bihar is now on the map.”

But the new factories are only part of the story: abandoned buildings litter the rest of the industrial park, the metal fences on road dividers are rusty and the link to the nearby highway is a potholed and narrow road.

Manufacturing has in fact contributed very little to the surge in the economy’s growth: with power cuts common, highways often jammed and graft still thriving, few investors are willing to brave Bihar yet. No surprise, then, that Bihar was ranked bottom last year in a state-by-state survey of economic freedom.

Official figures show that even agriculture, the mainstay of the economy, has contracted for the past six years, suggesting that the Bihar boom has been far from inclusive.

Much of the growth has instead been generated by hefty public spending on construction, which means the Bihar boom may not have a solid enough base to be sustainable.

Indeed, Bihar is Exhibit A for the case that India is a twotrack economy, with industry-friendly seaboard states rushing ahead as others grow from extremely low bases. Shaibal Gupta, secretary of the Asian Development Research Institute in Patna, reckons that even if Bihar’s growth continues at its current double-digit clip it would take 18 years to catch up with the present-day wealth of Maharashtra, home to the financial capital, Mumbai. “We can’t call it a miracle,” Gupta said. “It’s some change at an initial level that should have happened 60 years ago.” — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

sp orts Tevez appeals over City fine LONDON: Carlos Tevez, on a self-imposed exile in his native Argentina, has appealed to the Premier League against the six-week fine imposed on him by Manchester City after he returned home without permission in November.

The Premier League leaders imposed the punishment on the 27-year-old forward after finding him guilty of gross misconduct on Dec. 22. A media consultant working for Tevez confirmed to Reuters the appeal had been lodged. It should be heard by the Premier League sometime in February.

Tevez has been in dispute with the club since failing to heed coach Roberto Mancini’s instructions to warm up and come on as a substitute during a Champions League match with Bayern Munich in September. Tevez has not played since.

British media widely reported last week that so far Tevez has lost around 9.0 million pounds ($14.11 million) in wages and bonuses. He has appealed against the punishment once, but that appeal was dismissed on Jan.7 after an internal club hearing.—Reuters

Dhoni would pave way for ‘better’ captain SYDNEY: Mahendra Singh Dhoni would readily step aside as India captain if there was a suitable replacement available, the under-fire skipper said yesterday.

“It’s not something I want to hold on to or stick on to. If there’s a better replacement, it’s a very open thing, he can come in,” Dhoni told reporters on the eve of India’s first Twenty20 international against Australia.

“At the end of the day, you want India to perform. If there is someone who can do a better job, then it’s a place that should be given to him. It’s not something you have to cling on to,” he said. “It’s not a position that

belongs to anyone. The responsibility was given to me three-and-half years back and I have been trying to fit into the shoes, trying to get along with the team and perform well wherever we play.” Under Dhoni, India won the Twenty20 (2007) and 50-over World Cups (2011) and became the topranked test nation before the team’s spectacular decline started in England last year.

The team did not win a single match on that tour, losing the test series 4-0, and further humiliation awaited them in Australia, where they succumbed to their second successive whitewash abroad.—Reuters

Rudisha to kick off Down Under SYDNEY: David Rudisha, Kenya’s 800 metres world champion and world record holder, will kick off his 2012 season in two meetings in Sydney and Melbourne over the next month, Athletics Australia said yesterday.

After claiming the world title with an impressive display of front-running in South Korea last August, the 23-year-old will be a strong favorite to claim his first Olympic gold in London on Aug. 9. Rudisha, who will run the 400 metres at the Sydney Track Classic on Feb. 18 and step up to the twolap race in Melbourne on March 2-3, said he was looking forward to commencing his season Down Under, as he has for the last two years. “The people are friendly, the meets are good and it works as a very good start to my year,” he said in a news release. “This year we of course have the Olympic Games and that is the big focus for all athletes but I want to run well throughout the year.” Rudisha, who set his 800m world record time of one minute 41.01 seconds in Italy in 2010, said running the 400m in Sydney could lead to a bid to run in the relay in London—Reuters

Hornets stumble, Thunder silenced

INDIANAPOLIS: New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady answers questions during Media Day for NFL football’s Super Bowl XLVI. —AP

NY Giants arrive at Super Bowl INDIANAPOLIS: Unlike four years ago when they dressed in black suits as a symbol of unity before facing the undefeated Patriots, the Giants returned to the Super Bowl this time with no sartorial gimmicks.

Touching down in Indianapolis for their rematch with New England on Sunday, the Giants are simply a confident team. They believe in themselves as much as they did in 2008 when they ruined the Patriots’ perfect season with a stunning 17-14 victory in Arizona.

“We had no doubt,” guard Chris Snee said Monday, referring to the Giants’ feelings four years ago. “You have to be a confident team when you get on the plane. You reach this game for a reason. It’s not by chance. You have to be confident coming out here.”

The Giants tried to demonstrate that four years ago with their all-black attire.

This year, Justin Tuck left his black suit in the cleaners. Attire was a personal choice. If there is a difference this time it’s not the way the Giants feel. It’s the feeling about them. If they win, no one will be surprised.

They beat the Patriots in the regular season and they come to Indianapolis with almost as much momentum as New England, which won 10 in a row.

The streak for Eli Manning and company is only five, but the Giants seem to be getting better each week. Tuck insisted that teams don’t get to this point in the season without believing in themselves.

“It can be misunderstood for cockiness, and whatever else,” Tuck said. “But at the end of the day, when we step on that football field, we believe we are going to win that football game. If you ask any athlete and he tells you anything different, then there is something wrong.”

Safety Antrel Rolle was his usual self when asked about being confident. “I mean, we wouldn’t have boarded the plane if we didn’t expect to win,” said Rolle, who lost a Super Bowl in February, 2009 while

playing for Arizona against the Steelers. “I think that is the bottom line. We have come here for one thing and one thing only which is to win. We are expecting to win this game come Sunday.”

The Patriots (15-3) certainly understand how the Giants feel. They feel the same way. “Listen, this is the last game of the season. I’m pretty sure that the Giants want to win and we want to win, point blank,” defensive tackle Vince WIlfork said.

“You have two good football teams who don’t want to walk away with an ‘L’. Both sides are going to have to play really good football and not give up anything cheap.

Trust me, we’re not the only ones that feel that we want to win this ballgame. They’re sitting over there saying the same thing.

This is the last game, and the biggest game of your career. This is what you play for.”

The Giants (12-7) had a much different send off than the Patriots, who arrived Sunday after attending a rally in Foxborough, Mass., that drew 25,000 people.

Coach Tom Coughlin’s Giants left from team headquarters in the Meadowlands around 11:30 a.m. There was no rally and only a few extra fans showed up to wave goodbye.

Before leaving, the team held what is a normal Saturday walkthrough and left at the same time they would normally leave for a road game.

The short flight was uneventful. It was quiet and the players either watched a movie or slept, Snee said. “You get off and you know you are at the Super Bowl,” Snee said. “The media is there and there is a small red carpet. It’s exciting.”

Manning said the rest of the week is a time to focus. “When you feel you have a good team or players and an opportunity to go win a championship, you don’t want to let those slip away,” said Manning, the Super Bowl MVP of the Giant’s win over the Patriots four years ago.—AP

Fofana in France team to face Italy MARCOUSSIS: France have named uncapped Wesley Fofana in their team to face Italy in the opening game of the Six Nations at the Stade de France on Saturday with manager Philippe Saint-Andre saying his selection shows there are opportunities for young prospects.

“We want to show that the France team is open to young players who are regular starters with their club,” Saint-Andre, who took over from Marc Lievremont last December, told a news conference at France’s training camp on the outskirts of Paris.

Centre Fofana will partner Clermont team mate Aurelien Rougerie in a team featuring 12 players from the World Cup squad that reached the final against New Zealand last October.

“He is a classy player, I just want him not to be shy. I want him to show with France what he has been showing in the Top 14.

“He is one of the rare players who kept their place in their club’s starting lineup when the others returned from the World Cup.” The presence of Rougerie should help Fofana on his international debut as France

will be out to avenge last year’s Six Nations defeat by Italy.

“His presence is reassuring, he’s the daddy of the backline and the fact that they play club rugby together was a factor,” Saint-Andre explained. The powerful Louis Picamoles will start as number eight at the expense of Imanol Harinordoquy.

“He is powerful and he has been impressive with his club since he came back from the World Cup, while Imanol was out injured for three weeks,” said Saint-Andre.

Francois Trinh-Duc will start at flyhalf as expected, with Dimitri Yachvili at scrumhalf.

Belgian-born Vincent Debaty, who has only won one cap for France back in 2006, will start at loosehead prop, where he is expected to challenge Italy ’s Martin Castrogiovanni.

Debaty was impressive against Castrogiovanni in Clermont’s 30-12 victory over Leicester in the Heineken Cup last month. “Castrogiovanni is one of the best props is the world but I trust Vincent,” said Saint-Andre. “It’s an opportunity he has to seize. We know he carries the ball very well, but we will also expect him to gain possession.”—Reuters

MIAMI: LeBron James and Dwyane Wade each scored 22 points, and Mike Miller added 14 off the bench as the Miami Heat shook off a slow start to beat the New Orleans Hornets 109-95 on Monday.

James added 11 rebounds and eight assists for Miami, which won for the eighth time in nine games and ended up with six players in double figures. Chris Bosh and Norris Cole each scored 12 for the Heat, and Mario Chalmers added 11.

Miami was down 45-33 midway through the second quarter, then outscored New Orleans 76-50 the rest of the way.

Jarrett Jack and Carl Landry each scored 14 for New Orleans, which lost for the 17th time in 19 games after a 2-0 start. The Hornets managed 25 rebounds - the lowest total in the NBA this season.

Clippers 112, Thunder 100 At Los Angeles, Chris Paul had 26 points and 14 assists, and Blake Griffin added 22 points and a monstrous dunk as Los Angeles snapped Oklahoma City’s four-game winning streak in a matchup of division leaders.

Caron Butler also scored 22 points and DeAndre Jordan had 11 points and 11 rebounds as the Pacific-leading Clippers won their third in a row, dunking with high-flying abandon against the team with the NBA’s best record at 16-4.

Kevin Durant had 36 points and 13 rebounds, and Russell Westbrook added 31 points for the Northwest-leading Thunder, whose league-best road record dropped to 83. They had won 11 of their previous 12.

with 42 points in the third for their highestscoring quarter this season.

Kevin Martin had 29 points after missing two games with inflammation in his right heel. The Rockets lost for only the second time in 11 games.

Spurs 83, Grizzlies 73 At Memphis, Tennessee, Matt Bonner scored 15 points and Tim Duncan added 14 as San Antonio sent Memphis to its fourth straight loss. Rookie forward Kawhi Leonard had 12 points and 10 rebounds for the Spurs, who snapped a two-game skid. Richard Jefferson scored 13 points, while Danny Green finished with 11.

OJ Mayo led the Grizzlies with 17 points, shooting 7 of 11. Mike Conley had 15 points but Memphis was held to 37 percent shooting primarily because leading scorers Rudy Gay and Marc Gasol were a combined 3 of 18 from the field. Gay finished with one point, missing all seven of his shots.

Bucks 103, Pistons 82 At Milwaukee, Brandon Jennings had 21

points and reserve Mike Dunleavy added a season-high 20 as Milwaukee rolled to an easy victory over Detroit.

Drew Gooden shot 7 of 9 and scored 16 points for the Bucks, including seven straight in the third quarter during a decisive 12-2 run to open the second half.

Detroit, which has lost five straight and nine of 10, never led in falling to 4-18. Rodney Stuckey led the Pistons with 19 points, and Greg Monroe added 16 points and 10 rebounds.

Jazz 93, Trail Blazers 89 At Salt Lake City, Paul Millsap had 19 points and 15 rebounds as Utah used a 13-0 fourthquarter surge to beat Portland.

LaMarcus Aldridge led Portland with 25 points, including 14 in the third quarter as the Blazers built an 11-point lead. But the Jazz fought back, even without starting center Al Jefferson and guard Raja Bell, who did not play because of injuries.

Hayward finished with 12 points. Josh Howard had 11 points and seven rebounds in his first start for the Jazz.—AP

Bulls 98, Wizards 88 At Washington, Derrick Rose scored a season-high 35 points, Carlos Boozer had 18 and Kyle Korver added 17 to lead Chicago over Washington. One day after a four-point loss in Miami, the Bulls rebounded to improve their Eastern Conference-leading record to 18-5.

They had dropped two of three.

Meanwhile, the Wizards have lost 16 of 20.

Washington won two of its previous three games - both against the woeful Charlotte Bobcats, who have the worst record in the NBA. John Wall led the Wizards with 20 points.

Mavericks 122, Suns 99 At Phoenix, Vince Carter scored 21 points against a Phoenix team that’s still paying him as Dallas took advantage of Steve Nash’s absence to rout the Suns. Nash, the NBA assists leader, was out with a bruised left thigh.

Carter was waived by Phoenix when the lockout ended, but his contract still guaranteed him $4 million. He would have made $18 million had he stayed with Phoenix.

Delonte West scored a season-high 25 on 9-of-12 shooting. Longtime Sun Shawn Marion scored 20 for the Mavericks and Dirk Nowitzki had 10 points in his second game back after missing four to rest his sore right knee.

76ers 74, Magic 69 At Philadelphia, Andre Iguodala had 14 points and 11 rebounds to lead Philadelphia past Orlando for its third straight win.

The Sixers raced to their best start in nearly a decade by taking advantage of a soft schedule for the first third of the season, but it gets tough from here. Orlando was the first opponent in a long run of games against winning teams that includes home games this week against Chicago and Miami.

Led by Iguodala’s burst in the third quarter, the Sixers (15-6) outlasted the stumbling Magic and won despite posting their lowest point total of the season. Dwight Howard’s 17 points and 11 rebounds weren’t enough in Orlando’s fourth straight loss. Ryan Anderson had 14 points and 20 rebounds.

T’wolves 120, Rockets 108 At Houston, Michael Beasley scored 34 points, and Ricky Rubio had 18 points and 11 assists as Minnesota beat the Houston in coach Rick Adelman’s return.

Kevin Love had 29 points for the Timberwolves, who broke open a close game

LOS ANGELES: Clippers forward Reggie Evans (left) battles Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook for a loose ball during the first half of an NBA basketball game. —AP

NBA results/standings NBA results and standings on Monday.

Philadelphia 4, Orlando 9; Chicago 8, Washington 8; Miami 09, New Orleans 5; Milwaukee 03, Detroit 2; Minnesota 20, Houston 08; San Antonio 3, Memphis 3; Utah 3, Portland 9; Dallas 22, Phoenix 9; LA Clippers 12, Oklahoma City 00.

Philadelphia Boston NY Knicks Toronto New Jersey

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L PCT 15 6 .714 9 10 .474 7 13 .350 7 14 .333 7 14 .333

Chicago Indiana Milwaukee Cleveland Detroit

Central Division 18 5 .783 13 6 .684 9 11 .450 8 11 .421 4 18 .182

Miami Atlanta Orlando Washington Charlotte

Southeast Division 16 5 .762 15 6 .714 12 9 .571 4 17 .190 3 18 .143

GB 5 7.5 8 8

Western Conference Northwest Division Oklahoma City 16 4 .800 Denver 14 6 .700 Utah 12 7 .632 Portland 12 9 .571 Minnesota 10 11 .476

2 3.5 4.5 6.5

3 7.5 8 13.5

LA Clippers LA Lakers Phoenix Golden State Sacramento

Pacific Division 12 6 .667 12 9 .571 7 13 .350 6 12 .333 6 14 .300

1.5 6 6 7

1 4 12 13

Dallas San Antonio Houston Memphis New Orleans

Southwest Division 14 8 .636 13 9 .591 12 9 .571 10 10 .500 4 17 .190

1 1.5 3 9.5

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

sp orts

Djokovic, greatest athlete out there?

PARIS: What a horrific dilemma this could be. The men’s 100 meter sprint final and men’s tennis final fall on the same day, Aug. 5, at the London Olympics. If forced, which would you miss: Usain Bolt possibly becoming the first man since Carl Lewis to win the 100 at consecutive games or Novak Djokovic perhaps putting a golden sheen on what promises to be another astounding year?

Until Sunday, Bolt would have been a comfortable winner. But now?

Impossible choice. And what a memorable day it could prove to be for those with time to rush from one event to the other or to tune into both.

Like Bolt, Djokovic is becoming one of those special athletes who transcends the confines of sport, a figure whose achievements on the field of play teach us not only new things about sporting endeavor but also about the bottomless well of human possibility.

Bolt’s 100, 200 and relay gold at the

2008 Beijing Games made the Jamaican more than just an Olympic champion sprinter but one of the greatest sportsmen of all time because he redefined our understanding of how fast humans can run.

Likewise, in outlasting Rafael Nadal for 5 hours and 53 minutes in the longest ever Grand Slam final, Djokovic played far more than a mere tennis match to win the Australian Open. He tested our definition of human endurance. How, just how, did he find those last drops of energy to first reel in and then finish off the Spaniard who, with a 4-2 lead in the fifth set, looked as though he might wriggle free?

It was the incredible will Djokovic demonstrated that made this feat immortal. Like Muhammad Ali flooring George Foreman with a left, then a right in the eighth round of the Rumble in the Jungle or Lance Armstrong picking himself up from a crash at the 2003 Tour de France and

powering up a climb with cold-eyed fury on his broken bike, this was epic because it was as much about heart as it was about physical ability.

“You’re going through so much suffering; your toes are bleeding,” Djokovic said. “Everything is just outrageous, you know, but you’re still enjoying that pain.”

At the end, he ripped open his shirt with a primal scream. It wouldn’t have been that much of a shock if Djokovic had also ripped open his hairy chest to show us just how fiercely his ticker beats.

What a terrifying sight for Andy Murray and Roger Federer. The hypochondriac Djokovic who in years past looked unlikely to ever match Nadal’s physicality, the joker Djokovic who seemed unlikely to equal Federer’s cool professionalism, has been body-snatched and replaced by Superman on a gluten-free diet.

Murray, the world No. 4, came away from his five-set, 4 hour and 50-minute

Australian semifinal loss to Djokovic feeling that he is edging closer to the No. 1. Maybe. But two days later, on Sunday, Djokovic and Nadal then shifted the benchmark yet further forward.

The ferocity of their contest made the idea that Murray could beat first one of them and then the other in a Grand Slam semifinal and final look fanciful again.

Same goes for Federer, the No. 3. As long as Nadal and Djokovic are fit, it will only get more difficult for the 30year-old to get his hands on a 17th Grand Slam title by toppling those men five and six years his junior.

For Nadal, Sunday’s final offered some evidence that the No. 2 no longer looks in trepidation across the net at Djokovic and that the deep hurt done to his confidence by losing six finals to the Serb last year might not be permanent. In becoming the first man to lose three consecutive Grand Slam finals, all to Djokovic, at least Nadal this time pushed his nemesis to

five sets.

But as positive as Nadal sounded about this defeat - “I always said is good suffer, enjoy - enjoy suffering, no?” - will the scabs on his psyche simply flake right off the next time they meet?

One hopes not. Because, like the very best Hollywood blockbusters, this epic cried out for a sequel and left us hungry for more. Some, including 7time major winner Mats Wilander, already are talking up the possibility of a calendar Grand Slam for Djokovic this year. That is premature, but won’t be if Djokovic wins the French Open the only major he let slip away in 2011 - this June.

After that, Wimbledon’s Center Court will be calling, with the men’s final on July 8 and the Olympic final a month later. Just imagine if those produce a Djokovic-Nadal double-bill. If that happens, then the Aug. 5 dilemma won’t seem so quite knotty anymore.

Anyone want tickets for Bolt? —AP

Allmendinger caps off big offseason with Daytona win

Misbah-ul-Haq

Misbah shines to lead Pakistan from darkness NEW DELHI: Following the Pakistan cricket team has often been a veritable health hazard for their supporters, pledging allegiance to a supremely talented but highly fractious bunch that would veer from the sublime to the ridiculous in the blink of an eye.

Even at the start of this decade, the team functioned more like a secret society where any newcomer would struggle to breathe in a dressing room polluted by air thick with suspicion.

Not so long ago, local media would report stories about senior players holding clandestine meetings at a former captain’s residence to take an oath to betray the incumbent. A former coach would call the players “mentally retarded” and a captain would blame poor fielding on team mates busy ogling girls in the outfield. Of course, any players named denied the allegations. Even for such a disjointed side, the 2010 spot-fixing scandal would mark a new low, culminating with the imprisonment of the then captain Salman Butt and bowlers Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Asif for agreeing to bowl deliberate no-balls in the Lord’s test against England.

Less than a year-and-a-half on and Pakistan have not only survived the crisis but emerged stronger under Misbah-ulHaq’s understated captaincy, reveling in consistency and shrugging off their notorious unpredictability.

Misbah and his men have clearly banished the nightmares of their previous meeting with England to take an unassailable 2-0 lead against the same oppo-

nent in a ‘home’ series in the UAE and are eyeing a clean sweep.

The latest success follows their series victories over New Zealand, Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in a highly rewarding 2011 when they won six of the 10 tests, losing just one. “After the spot-fixing scandal the players discussed things and we unanimously agreed that we need to just do well,” Misbah recently told the Geo News channel. “I am happy that we have been playing with lot of focus, dedication and discipline. The players have lots of faith in each other and their abilities to perform under pressure.”

Forced to host teams in the Gulf due to security concerns, Pakistan have achieved a great deal under the quiet stewardship of a 37-year-old captain who is unlike any of his predecessors.

Misbah does not warrant comparison with either Inzamam-ul-Haq or Younus Khan as a batsman, lacks Shahid Afridi’s flamboyance and is not as articulate as Butt at presentation ceremonies.

However, shoehorned into captaincy after Butt’s ignominious exit, Misbah has achieved what most others could not. He has won eight of the 12 tests he has been in charge of the team and is yet to lose a series as skipper. More importantly, Pakistan finally look like a well-knit unit of honest triers who have complete faith in their phlegmatic leader and his single-minded pursuit of victory. “It’s better to win by playing defensively, instead of losing by playing aggressively,” Misbah said before the start of the series against England. — Reuters

Haddin: I was dropped, not rested from ODIs SYDNEY: Test wicketkeeper Brad Haddin says he has been dropped from Australia’s one-day squad due to poor form, rather than being rested.

Haddin was omitted in favor of understudy Matthew Wade on Monday for the first three matches of the limited-overs tri-series against India and Sri Lanka, with chairman of selectors John Inverarity saying he was being rested after a heavy test schedule. Haddin told Sky Sports Radio yesterday he was dropped and may never get his spot back.

The 34-year-old said if Wade takes his chance in the opening matches of the ODI series starting Sunday, he could be kept out of the team for good. It’s been suggested Haddin will return for the latter half of the triseries, but Haddin said he must face facts amid suggestions Wade may also be taken as a second wicketkeeper for the tour to West Indies starting in March. “I think any time you’re out of the Australian cricket team I think you’re dropped,” Haddin told Sky Sports Radio.

“You give another guy an opportunity to take your spot and you’ve got to look if they do well, you could find it hard to get back in the team. “But that’s the way it is and I’ve just got to deal with that and make sure I’m ready to play.”

Haddin has been under pressure all summer over his performances at test level and Wade has been touted as his likely replacement should the selectors make a change.

Wade will also play in the two Twenty20s against India this week in Sydney and Melbourne, and Haddin said he understood the need to give his deputy a proper taste of international cricket.

Haddin will captain the Prime Minister ’s XI against Sri Lanka in Canberra on Friday. “If you give your spot up and someone does well you’ve got no right just to walk straight back in,” he said.

“I’m actually looking forward to the PM’s game, for someone from Canberra it’s a great opportunity to get back and captain that side.” —AP

DAYTONA BEACH: AJ Allmendinger won five races during the 2006 season in Champ Car, then walked away hoping to launch a new career in NASCAR. He was at the top of his game when he left open-wheel, and figured he’d make a smooth and successful transition to stock cars.

Instead, he suffered through a miserable five years. Now, in what seems like a blink of an eye, it has all turned around for Allmendinger. No driver has had a better offseason than “ The ‘Dinger,” who landed the ride of a lifetime right before Christmas when Penske Racing picked him to fill the seat left suddenly open when the team split with former NASCAR champion Kurt Busch.

Then he opened the 2012 racing season with an impressive victory in the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Allmendinger was the anchor for Michael Shank Racing, and used a gritty final stint - he was behind the wheel almost three hours at the end - to give longtime friend Shank his first victory in nine tries in the prestigious endurance event.

It was Allmendinger’s first major racing victory since he walked away from Champ Car at the end of the 2006 season.

“It’s always cool to be me,” Allmendinger quipped when asked about the last five weeks.

Then he quickly turned serious.

“No, I’m just kidding. The last five years, it’s actually (stunk) to be me.” It was indeed a struggle as Allmendinger went from the top of one series to the bottom of another. On paper, a deal with upstart Red Bull Racing seemed too good to pass up. The deeppocketed team was making its entrance into NASCAR and it wanted Allmendinger to drive one of its two cars. It was a disaster from the very beginning.

Red Bull wasn’t ready to race in the elite Sprint Cup Series, and even worse, it had no develop-

ment plan for Allmendinger, who was brand new to stock cars. Most open-wheel drivers have been eased into NASCAR with races in either the second-tier Nationwide Series, the Truck Series, or the nonNASCAR affiliated ARCA Series.

merger of Champ Car with the IndyCar Series did Allmendinger know for sure where he belonged.

He called that 2007 season, “Hell. Honestly, it was the worst year of my life when it came to my career. “There were plenty of times

DAYTONA BEACH: AJ Allmendinger (front right) leads Allan McNish (front left) of Scotland, as they head to the tri-oval leading a pack of cars in the Grand-Am Rolex 24 auto race in this file photo. —AP But Allmendinger was thrown in my bus on Friday, (after) missing right to the wolves, and it became a race, it was either, ‘Should I go obvious immediately that the back to IndyCar or slit my wrists?’” team and the driver were in very he said. “It sounds kind of over the top, but I knew I wanted to be in much above their heads.

Both Allmendinger and team- the Sprint Cup Series. That’s where mate Brian Vickers struggled to the best of the best was. With the even qualify for races that season, two series still split, I had done and missing out on the events fur- what I did in Champ Car, and at ther slowed Allmendinger’s devel- the point, the IRL wasn’t appealing opment. It didn’t take long for him to me. I had a great opportunity to to wonder if he’d made a huge go to the Sprint Cup Series. “It was mistake in moving to NASCAR. But just a tough couple of years. The the open-wheel leagues were in last few years have been tough.” turmoil, and not even after the He was eventually tossed aside at

Red Bull, and landed with Richard Petty Motorsports, where he won a pole and led 232 laps over the last two years. He also became consistent, and notched 10 top-10 finishes, winding up 13th in points when the 12-driver Chase for the Sprint Cup championship field was set. Even so, his future was unclear.

Best Buy decided to pull its sponsorship from RPM, and the team didn’t have the funding to field a car for Allmendinger. Then Busch split with Penske, and team owner Richard Petty suggested Allmendinger to Roger Penske for his suddenly open seat.

“When you part with a driver with the skills that Kurt has, you don’t just pick up the phone book and find someone who fits into his shoes,” said Penske, who was familiar with Allmendinger’s work in Champ Car. “He was a great open-wheel driver,” Penske added.

“He beat Will Power a couple of times, and you don’t beat Will Power if you’re not a pretty good shoe. We had a couple other people we were looking at, (but) knowing what we could give him and how our sponsors were very happy to have AJ, it was a whole package.”

Now Allmendinger is with a team that won five races last year and put both Busch and Brad Keselowski into the Chase. He knows it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, and hopes Sunday’s win at Daytona is the first of many trips to Victory Lane.

“The last few years have been tough,” he said. “I feel like the last two years I’ve at least gotten a good rhythm, and it makes me feel good to know that a guy like Roger Penske can look at my talent and say, ‘You know what? He might not have a Cup win and you have (sponsor) Shell/Pennzoil that’s used to winners and champions in their cars, but if we give him the right stuff he might be able to do that.’” —AP

Khan: Tendulkar should have left after World Cup NEW DELHI: Former Pakistan captain and allrounder Imran Khan said yesterday Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar should have retired after the “ultimate high” of a World Cup victory at home last year.

“The best time for him to have gone was when India won the World Cup,” Khan told the CNN-IBN news channel. “He is such a great player and there is still no replacement for him really, but he has to time it right.”

Khan, who himself retired after leading Pakistan to an epic World Cup triumph in 1992, felt retiring now would not be right for Tendulkar as India reels from a 4-0 test whitewash to Australia.

“If he goes now, he won’t go on a high. If he had left at the World Cup final, it would have been the ultimate high. The World Cup final is the peak, there is nothing bigger than that,” the 59-year-old Khan said.

Tendulkar, who holds the record for both the most runs and centuries in tests and onedayers, is chasing a 100th international century.

The man known by fans as “the Little Master” had the satisfaction of lifting the World Cup on his home ground of Wankhede Stadium on April 2, but has been stuck on 99 centuries since scoring two 100s during that tournament.

“Records should be apart of a win because they are eventually statistics. The greatest cricketer I played against was Viv Richards, but I don’t remember his records. He just loved to

take on challenges,” Khan said.

Khan, who played 88 tests and 175 oneday internationals during an international career that started in 1971, said retirement was always a difficult decision to make for a sportsman.

“I always wanted to leave on my own terms, never wanted to be at the mercy of selectors. But very few get the decision right.

Sachin Tendulkar

Most of the great players have also not got it right,” he said.

Khan said it was difficult to say whether the time had come to ease out the likes of Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and V.V.S. Laxman, all in their late 30s, after their unimpressive performance in Australia.

Tendulkar batted well in patches to score 287 runs from four tests in Australia, while Dravid (194) and Laxman (155) could not justify being India’s mainstays of test cricket.

“In Indian cricket, it is not one great player who has to take the decision but three or four.

The big question is - do you have replacements? If the gap between a great player who is going down and a young player who is going up is not much, you should back the young players,” Khan added.

Khan also indicated that the advent of the cash-rich Indian Premier League had affected the traditional forms of the game since players now wanted to continue playing so as to remain in the reckoning for IPL teams.

“The IPL is making a big difference because people want to now prolong their careers. In 21 years, I did not make so much money as an ordinary IPL player makes in two months,” he said. The Indian cricket team now plays two Twenty20 games against Australia today and Friday before participating in a limitedovers tri-series against Australia and Sri Lanka. Tendulkar does not play Twenty20 games for India but will likely play in the onedayers. —AP

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

S P ORT S

London police make arrest in Olympics scam LONDON: London police said yesterday they have arrested a man on suspicion of fraud after he allegedly duped an American woman into handing over tens of thousands of dollars for an investment related to the upcoming Olympics.

The online scam involved an alleged contract to supply buses for police officers for the games, police said. The fraudster, 24, first contacted the 69year-old woman on an online dating website.

Police said that once he befriended her, he tricked her into handing over 140,000 pounds ($220,000) as an “initial” investment into the business.

Police say they were worried about fraudsters using the prestige of London’s Metropolitan Police department to secure the trust of victims.

“Suspect anyone you don’t know personally who is asking for money in this way and who use the name of a well-known organisation, such as

ours, in an attempt to add credence to their claims.

It is almost certainly not genuine,” Detective Superintendent Nick Downing said.

No other details about the victim were revealed.

Police arrested a man and a woman for suspected involvement in the same scam in December. Both were bailed pending further questioning.

Meanwhile, London 2012 Olympics organisers have released more than 120,000 hotel room nights back onto the open market. They confirmed that some 20 percent of the room nights they had reserved in London would be returned to hotels to offer up to other customers. The spaces had been reserved to provide accommodation for media, global sport federations, the International Olympic Committee, Games workers and sponsors.

The rooms at more than 200 hotels, range from five-star to budget accommodation. Hundreds of

thousands of visitors are expected to flock to London for the July 27 to August 12 Games, whether ticket holders or not.

As part of the bid to stage the 2012 Olympics, agreements had been struck with hotels to provide more than 40,000 rooms, representing more than 600,000 room nights during the period. But part of the deal was that the organisers promised to return any unwanted rooms to the hotels so they could sell them in time for the Games.

“The hotel industry in London got behind the bid to stage the Games in the most extraordinary way and that support helped us across the line,” London Olympics chief executive Paul Deighton said. “We always promised that we would not hold on to hotel rooms we didn’t need but return them to the individual hotels at the beginning of 2012.

“We are now doing this and I hope that this

enables the hotels to continue with their planning for this summer as we all work together to stage a spectacular Games.”

Sandie Dawe, the chief executive of the VisitBritain national tourism agency, said: “The fact that such a wide spread of rooms in London will now be made available to the public is great news for overseas visitors wishing to come to the UK to experience the Olympics and all the other wonderful festivities that are taking place.”

However, some in the tourism industry warned that prices had risen too fast before the new rooms were offered and many potential visitors have been put off staying in London.

Neil Wootton, managing director of sightseeing operator Premium Tours, told The Independent newspaper: “Prices have been so high that tourists are moving elsewhere.” — Agencies

Sutil ponders future 18-month suspended sentence MUNICH: Former Force India Formula One driver Adrian Sutil considered his future yesterday after receiving an 18-month suspended sentence and 200,000 euro ($262,300) fine for causing grievous bodily harm in a Shanghai night club brawl last year.

“Maybe I will take some time out now,” the 29-year-old German, who has yet to find a race seat for this year, told reporters after the Munich court’s verdict ended a two-day trial.

“Maybe I will do something completely different, think about things in peace. “At least I shook Mr (Eric) Lux’s hands. That’s a good thing,” added Sutil, an accomplished pianist whose parents are both professional musicians.

Judge Christiane Thiemann found Sutil guilty of injuring Lux, chief executive of Renault F1 team owners Genii Capital, after the Chinese Grand Prix last April.

Lux needed several stitches for a neck wound after Sutil injured him with a champagne glass.

The Renault team has since been renamed Lotus while Force India have already announced Germany’s Nico Hulkenberg as

Sutil’s replacement.

Only one team, HRT, still has a clear vacancy for the season starting in Australia on March 18 but Sutil - who finished ninth overall in F1 last year - could still have a chance of landing a reserve role.

Sutil had told the court on the first day of proceedings on Monday that he had repeatedly apologised to Lux and denied it was his intention to hurt him but rather to throw a drink in his face.

The prosecution, however, had asked for a 21-month sentence and a 300,000 euro fine, saying that as a professional athlete Sutil should not have acted that way.

“Pushing someone away with a glass is adventurous and not in line with our experience of life,” prosecutor Nicole Selzam told the court.

“Professional athletes play a role model function in public life and such incidents should not occur.”The fine will be paid to charities.

The court had also wanted to hear from McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton, who won the race in China and was in the night club at the time, but the 2008 world champion was excused due to team commitments. — Reuters

Adrian Sutil

Motivated Menchov craves for maiden cycling Tour title MOSCOW: Missing last year’s Tour de France has given Denis Menchov extra motivation to fight for the yellow jersey at this year’s edition of the world’s greatest cycling race.

Menchov, Russia’s best stage rider of the past decade, was forced to watch the 2011 Tour on television after his Italian team Geox were not invited by the French organisers.

“In a way it has helped me recharge my batteries,” Menchov, who joined Russian team Katusha on a two-year contract in December after Geox ended their involvement in professional cycling after a single season, told Reuters in an interview. “ There’s no point for me in dwelling on the past. I’m a firm believer that whatever happens to you in life must have a reason. So rather than sit here and curse my bad luck, I want to look on the positive side,” said the Russian, who celebrated his 34th birthday last week.

“I had a chance to watch the race from the outside, analyse it. It has given me a different perspective on the race. Not being part of the Tour last year definitely made me more determined to try to win it.”

Menchov has won two other major three-week races, the Tour of Spain in 2005 and 2007 and the 2009 Giro d’Italia. His heart, however, has belonged to the French race ever since he earned the 2003 Tour’s white jersey, given to the best young (under-25) rider, after beating his nearest rival by more than 40 minutes. “It’s the biggest race in cycling and the toughest to win,” he said.

“In the Giro and Vuelta you usually have only two or three guys with a realistic chance for the overall title. In the Tour every year you have at least five or six contenders, making it very difficult to win. It’s like climbing Mount Everest - if you reach the summit, you are on top of the world.

“In my career I’ve won just about every thing else except the Tour,” said Menchov, whose best finish was third in 2010. “I’ve been close a couple of times, reached the

podium...but you always dream of getting to the top. Having that yellow jersey is what really matters.”

While other top riders may have multiple goals in an Olympic year, Menchov is concentrating solely on the Tour.

“Unlike some previous years I won’t ride the Giro or Vuelta,” he said. “As for the Olympics, I’ll just have to wait and see how I feel after the Tour. In any case, in London I’m interested only in the individual time trial.”

Menchov named three-times Tour winner Alberto Contador as the favourite for the July race again, brushing off any suggestion the Spaniard might be distracted with the Court of Arbitration for Sport delaying its verdict in his doping case. “If he’s allowed to race, he’ll be

Denis Menchov

ready,” said the Russian. Menchov himself came under a cloud last year when French sports daily L’Equipe produced its doping suspicion index, in which riders were given a rating of suspicion on a scale from 0 - not suspicious - to 10 highly suspicious. Menchov was rated at 9.

“Well, it was only L’Equipe’s ratings. Both (cycling’s governing body) UCI and (the World AntiDoping Agency) WADA said they had nothing to do with it so I wasn’t worried,” he said.

“Every year the French come up with some theory to try to explain why no French rider has won the Tour for over 20 years.”

The usually quiet Russian has often been criticised for not being aggressive enough, especially on

the big climbs. “In a three-week race like the Tour you must conserve energy as much as possible, especially in the first week, if you want to win the general classification,” he said of his tactics.

“One day you may feel great and try an all-out attack to crush your rivals but the next day you could pay a heavy price and suffer badly.

In the end, you could lose more than you gain.

“Every rider, except maybe Contador or (Lance) Armstrong in his prime, have their strength and weaknesses. (Andy) Schleck, for example, knows he’s not as strong in the time trial so he must attack in the mountains to have a chance,” Menchov said.

“As for myself, I usually do well in time trials so in the mountains I can afford to sit back and wait for my chances. You must be patient on the climbs and I’ve leaned how to pace myself over the years. It comes with experience,” he added.

“When I was younger I might have panicked if I was dropped on a big climb. Now I know you can get it back the next day.”

On six of his 10 Tours Menchov rode in the colours of Dutch team Rabobank, having joined them from Spain’s Banesto in 2004.

When his Rabobank contract expired in 2010, he raised a few eyebrows, preferring newly-formed Geox over Russia’s Katusha.

“Ever since Katusha was formed in 2008, there was talk of me joining them but I had a contract with Rabobank,” he recalled.

“We had talks with Katusha in 2010 but didn’t agree on the contract, so finally when they came calling again at the end of last year I didn’t think twice about joining the team.”

Katusha boss Hans-Michael Holczer, who joined last year from German team Gerolsteiner, was excited about his new charge.

“In my 10 years with Gerolsteiner we never had a Tour winner so if Menchov wins in my first year with Katusha, I promise to walk all the way from Paris to Moscow,” Holczer said. —Reuters

Asian Tour chief welcomes PGA boost SINGAPORE: Asian Tour chief Kyi Hla Han has welcomed moves from the US PGA Tour to step up its presence in the region, as this year’s busy golf season gets under way.

The boss of Asia’s main golf circuit, which returns this week in Yangon, said it would be “positive for all parties” if the PGA turns the limited-field CIMB Asia Pacific Classic in Kuala Lumpur into a ranking event.

The PGA has lagged behind the European Tour, which last year cosanctioned eight Asian events, in its forays into the region, but is now considering an “Asian swing” with CIMB and Shanghai’s HSBC Champions gaining full PGA status.

Previously, CIMB has had just a 40man field including 10 Asian players.

But Han, the Asian Tour’s executive chairman, said it would make sense to turn it into a full event.

“If it’s not a ranking event it kind of defeats the purpose of having a sanctioned event,” he said. “It would probably be better to have an increased field,” Han added.

“If the PGA Tour puts it on their ranking list I think that would be a positive for all parties.” Han said the move would probably be discussed at the International Federation of PGA Tours meeting at the US Masters in April. If the US PGA makes it a full-field ranking event, he said the Asian Tour may do the same.

“Right now we haven’t been notified. It will probably be discussed at our meeting during the US Masters. It would only be a positive,” he said.

On Thursday, about 140 players will tee off in Yangon for the Myanmar Open, heralding the start of the 27stop Asian Tour. The rival OneAsia series is due to begin in March.

Asia has risen from golfing backwater to the sport’s prime growth area over the past decade, with a trickle of visiting stars becoming a flood thanks to world-standard purses and facilities, and lavish appearance fees.

But with the advent of OneAsia in 2009, and last year’s introduction of mega-rich exhibition events in China, the Asian schedule suddenly looks congested.

However, Han said sponsors were continuing to back Asian golf, despite global economic problems, and he maintained there was still room to expand. “ We’ve got a lot more room to improve. It’s very positive. Even with the challenges we’ve got, the good sign is the sponsors are willing to put their money into golf,” he said.

“The Asian economy so far is stable.

I think a lot of companies are still going to have to market their brand, and we work hard to get the right branding with our TV distribution and media distribution,” Han added.

“I’m sure they will put their money in with us and the big tours.” Han reserved comment on recent changes at OneAsia, which has relocated its headquarters from Singapore to Hong Kong and lost its former chief executive Ben Sellenger, who announced his resignation in November.

But he said the Asian Tour was unconcerned by the Chinese exhibition events, including the Shanghai Masters which last year offered a US$2 million first prize, the biggest in the sport.

“These exhibition matches don’t really do anything for the development of Chinese golf or golf in Asia. I think the majority of our sponsors are very pleased with having sanctioned, full-field events,” he said. “ The market’s crowded but the positive thing is all the sponsors are willing to put their money into golf. I see it as a positive and a challenge to make our results stronger.”

Defending champion Tetsuji Hiratsuka and Thailand’s Thaworn Wiratchant are among the players in action at Royal Mingalardon Golf and Country Club, venue for the $300,000 Myanmar Open, from Thursday. — AFP

18

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

S P ORT S

Morocco wrap up Cup with win LIBREVILLE: Morocco denied Niger their first ever Africa Cup of Nations point with a 1-0 win in this meaningless closing Group C tie here yesterday.

With both teams already

Basser (injured), from the team beaten by the co-hosts last Friday.

The Atlas Lions’ attack was led

by Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh, and attacking midfielder and captain Houssine Kharja,

defence all sorts of trouble last week. With all of Gabon glued to events up in Franceville the L’Amitie stadium was nearly empty.

Morocco enjoyed near total possession in the early stages

GABON: Morocco’s Marouane Chamakh (left) and Francois Medhi Gonzalez Carcela (right) look at Niger goalkeeper Kassaly Daouda jumping to catch the ball during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match. —AP knocked out pride was the only prize on the table as qualified Gabon and Tunisia faced off in Franceville at the same time.

Morocco made a host of changes, including defenders Benatia (suspended) and Michael

the competition’s joint top scorer with three goals.

Keeper Nadir Lamyaghri made way for Mohamed Amsif. Niger’s forward line was spearheaded by captain Moussa Maazou, whose dazzling runs caused the Tunisian

without causing Niger keeper Daouda Kassaly too much concern, Kharja and Youssef Hadji both shooting over the bar.

On 34 minutes Dynamo Kiev’s Celtic recruit Badr El Kaddouri had Kassaly charging out of his goal

with a close range shot, Niger defender Kofi Dankwae’s outstretched foot clearing to safety.

But the best chance of the first half fell to the always dangerous Maazou who shortly after neatly controlled a high ball into the area, turned and smashed a shot only for the ball to ricochet off the bar with Amsif beaten.

Five minutes from the break Kharja’s Cup came to a premature and painful end when the Fiorentina star left the pitch on a stretcher with a knee injury. Adil Hermach came on in the skipper’s place.

Niger, 45 minutes away from an historic first Nations cup point, held a prayer session before the restart. They were looking at grabbing all three points as Karim Lancina’s pinpoint 25m freekick headed for goal on 46 minutes only for Amsif to safely extinguish the danger.

Approaching the hour mark and another well worked move by Morocco saw Younes Belhanda find Mbark Boussoufa in the box, with Kassaly falling at the Russianbased midfielder’s feet to smother the ball. The biggest cheer of the night came in the 65th minute....when Gabon took the lead up in Franceville.

Back in Libreville, good work from Kassaly was keeping Morocco at bay until the 89th minute when Chamakh fed Montpellier midfielder Belhanda whose sliding right-footed shot broke Niger’s hearts and perhaps kept Morocco coach Eric Gerets in a job. —AFP

Preview

Mali target quarters LIBREVILLE: Mali and even Botswana, thrashed 6-1 by Guinea, go in search of a place in the quarter-finals as today’s Group D games brings down the curtain on the Africa Cup of Nations first round.

The group is on a knife edge with any of the four teams — leaders Ghana and secondplaced Guinea clash in Franceville at the same time — still in contention to progress.

What is certain is that if Mali win, irrespective of the result up in Franceville, they will go through. Botswana need to win by a cricket score and pray Guinea thrash competition favourites Ghana to give them any chance.

Mali, coached by former Gabon boss Alain Giresse, are aiming to pick themselves up after a 2-0 loss to Ghana on Saturday, that came on the back of an opening 1-0 win over Guinea, Bakaye Traore’s first half goal earning them the points.

In the aftermath of the Ghana defeat Mali skipper Cedric Kante said they have not given up hope of reaching the quarterfinals of the tournament.

“We still have our destiny in

our hands as it is now down to our last game against Botswana,” said the Greece-based centre half. “We did not fight, we were not daring and we did not ask questions of the other team.”

team unity. “We need to continue to play as a team. A team who depend only on individual players will fail, but a team who are united and play for each other, will always win.”

LIBREVILLE: Mali coach Alain Giresse (center front) attends a training session during preparation of their next African Cup of Nations Group D soccer match. —AP In the absence of big names like Mahamadou Diarra, Momo Sissoko and Frederic Kanoute, who has quit international football, Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita has assumed greater responsibilities.

He has extolled the virtues of

Even if qualification is all but a distant dream Botswana will be desperate to draw a line under their record-equalling loss to Guinea and restore their battered pride.

The coach of the Nations Cup first-timers, Stanley

Tshosane, said: “ We have to accept this and continue with our mission.

“We are a small nation - it’s not an excuse - with limited professional players compared to other teams here. We are sorry to our fans.

“No one did us any favors for us to get here. We worked to get here so Mali will have to work hard for what they want.”

“I have spoken to the team and I told them we cannot reverse what has happened, but we have to continue with our mission here.”

Mali’s goalscorer against Botswana, midfielder Traore, beleives he and his teammates did not put up their best performance against Ghana. “ We were not afraid of Ghana, but we did not play to our potentials. We were not aggressive, but this match is now in the past and we have to forget it and focus on our next match against Botswana.”

Hosts in 2002, Mali’s best performance was when they made it to the final in 1972.

They have made it to the semifinals three times since then, in 1994, 2002 and 2004.—AFP

FRANCEVILLE: Tunisia’s Saber Khalifa (front) heads the ball as Gabon’s Edmond Mouele (back) defends during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match. —AP

Perfect Gabon top table FRANCEVILLE: Co-hosts Gabon defeated Tunisia 1-0 here yesterday to finish top of Africa Cup of Nations Group A with a perfect nine points from three matches.

The Panthers will play the runners-up in Group D in Libreville on Sunday, while Tunisia, who finished second in the group will face the winners of Group D. Pierre -Emerick Aubameyang gave Gabon the lead after 62 minutes when he collected a loose ball before wrong footing Tunisia goalkeeper Rami Jeridi for his third goal of the competition.

Skipper Daniel Cousin could have doubled the co-hosts’ lead in the 67th minute but his shot from a rebound was well off target as Gabon seemed to be a revived team after the recess.

The north Africans fought to restore parity but the home team were resolute in defence to hold on for another famous victory.

Tunisia rested several of their top stars including goalkeeper Aymen Mathlouthi, skipper Karim Haggui, Khaled Korbi and Mejdi Traoui as they would have missed the quarter-finals had they been booked.

All the same, the 2004 champions played with ease despite the wet conditions at the Franceville Stadium and after seven minutes Youssef Msakni fired a low drive from distance which was cushioned

by Gabon goalkeeper Ovono.

The Carthage Eagles continued to attack their opponents with Aymen Abdennour coming close after 22 minutes with a header off a corner kick as Gabon struggled to put together a decent attack.

It was not until the 25th minute that Gabon had a clear sight on goal when Roguy Meye headed wide of the mark as goalkeeper Jeridi came out to catch a long ball inside his box.

Andre Poko then tried another shot from distance three minutes later, but it was always going wide and never troubled the Tunisia goalkeeper.

In the 36th, Meye somehow got the better of his marker Abdennour on the edge of the box, but the header by Poko off his cross was not well directed at the Tunisia goal.

Soon after Bruno Zita blasted his free kick wide after Cousin was fouled around

the left hand corner of the Tunisia goal area.

In first half stoppage time, the co-hosts came closest to opening the scoring when Aubameyang’s low cross was not properly cleared by the Tunisia defence and from the loose ball Cousin scuffed his shot wide from 10 yards. —AFP

Matches on TV (Local Timings) English Premier League Aston Villa v QPR 22:45 Abu Dhabi Sport HD 6 Rovers v Newcastle 23:00 Abu Dhabi Sport HD 4 Fulham v Albion 23:00 Abu Dhabi Sport HD 7 Sunderland v Norwich 23:00 Abu Dhabi Sport HD 8 Bolton v Arsenal 23:00 Abu Dhabi Sport HD 5 African Nations Cup Ghana v Guinea 21:00 Aljazeera Sport +10 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD Botswana v Mali 21:00 Aljazeera Sport +9 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD Spain Copa Del Rey Valencia v Barcelona 23:00 Aljazeera Sport +2 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD Italian League Atalanta v Genoa Aljazeera Sport +1 Udinese v Lecce Aljazeera Sport +7 Napoli v Cesena Aljazeera Sport +8 Cagliari v AS Roma Aljazeera Sport +5 Bologna v Fiorentina Aljazeera Sport +6 Lazio v AC Milan Aljazeera Sport +1 Aljazeera Sport +3 Aljazeera Sport 1 HD Internazionale v Palermo Aljazeera Sport +4

20:00 22:45 22:45 22:45 22:45 22:45

22:45

Preview

Guinea eye full marks against Ghana

Ghana’s Anthony Annan (right) celebrates with fellow teammates in this file photo. —AP

FRANCEVILLE: Guinea will throw everything at Ghana in a third west African derby of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations Group D here today to stay alive in the competition.

The Syli National are on three points from two matches and need to beat the Black Stars to boost their chances of a place in the last eight on six points.

Even defeat could still see them progress, depending on the result of the tie between Mali and Bostwana being played at the same time in Libreville.

Four-time winners Ghana defeated Guinea 2-1 the last time both teams clashed in the Nations Cup in 2008.

Guinea go into this game on a high after trouncing Botswana 6-1 on Saturday following the narrow 1-0 loss to Mali in the opening fixture.

Only Egypt in 1963 and the Ivory

Coast in 1970 have scored as many goals in the Nations Cup tournament proper as Guinea recorded at the weekend.

“We made a big statement. And now we will do everything to stay on in Gabon. We are determined and we have to play at a very high level,” said Guinea coach Michel Dussuyer, whose team upstaged star-studded Nigeria to reach this tournament.

“We know that against Ghana we will have to do more. “I respect Ghana, they are a high level team with some great players. They did well at the 2010 World Cup and also reached the final of the last Nations Cup. “They are a top team, but we want to win and qualify for the quarter-final. We don’t wish to go back home yet.”

“This tournament is very open, some of the favourites have already left, while

Gabon and Equatorial Guinea are through to the quarter-finals,” he added.

Bastia striker Sadio Diallo crowned his first start of the Nations Cup with two well-taken goals against Botswana.

And he also vowed that this was a win-or-bust game for the Syli National.

“We will continue to work hard. We will play hard and not joke against Ghana,” said the 21-year-old striker.

Diallo as well as youngsters Abdoul Razzagui Camara and Ibrahima Traore have caught the eye in Gabon with some game-winning performances playing alongside experienced campaigners like Bobo Balde, Pascal Feindouno and skipper Kamil Zayatte.

For their own part, Ghana laboured to beat debutants Botswana before they turned on the class in the second half to beat Mali 2-0.

If the 2010 World Cup quarter-finalists win their group, they will face either inspired co-hosts Gabon or Tunisia in the next round.

However, they have insisted that they are not particular about staying clear of any team as they aim to end a 30-year trophy drought.

“We have quality players and we don’t care who we meet when we qualify for the quarter-finals. We are prepared for any team and we will take our chances, said ‘Baby Jet’ Asamoah Gyan, who scored a goal and created another as Ghana dumped Mali.

“What is most important is that we should be ready for whoever comes by because we want to qualify for the semifinals,” added Ayew, who scored the second goal to cap another hard-working performance against Mali. —AFP

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

S P ORT S

Flurry of EPL transfers as deadline looms LONDON: A flurry of last-minute transfers were being brokered across English football yesterday as clubs moved to bolster their squads in the final few hours of the January window.

Premier League side Sunderland completed a loan deal for out-of-favor Manchester City defender Wayne Bridge while struggling Queens Park Rangers confirmed the signing of French striker Djibril Cisse.

Cisse, who previously played for Lazio, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal with QPR who were also being linked with a £5 million move for Fulham striker Bobby Zamora.

“I rate Djibril very very highly,” Rangers boss Mark Hughes said. “I’ve watched him for many years and always been impressed by what he brings to the table. He was desperate to come here once we showed our

interest in him and we can’t wait to get the best out of him.”

Meanwhile Everton confirmed a fee had been agreed with Scottish giants Rangers for Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic. The 26-year-old international was seen at Everton’s Finch Farm training complex where he was reportedly discussing personal terms and undergoing a medical following agreement of an £8 million fee.

“Everton can confirm a fee has been agreed with Rangers for the transfer of Croatian international Nikica Jelavic,” Everton confirmed on their website ahead of the Toffees clash with Manchester City late yesterday.

Jelavic has scored 36 goals in 55 matches for Rangers since joining from Rapid Vienna in 2010 but had been keen to pursue a career in English football.

Meanwhile Manchester United were set to finally part company with youngster Ravel Morrison, the highly rated 18-year-old youth player who has failed to establish himself at Old Trafford. Morrison is regarded as one of the most promising youth players ever to pass through the Manchester United ranks but the club has reportedly lost patience amid ongoing problems in his private life.

Morrison was undergoing a medical with Championship side West Ham with a deal set to be concluded late yesterday. “The deal is not quite done yet but we are hopeful it will be completed,” West Ham manager Sam Allardyce told the London Evening Standard. “Ravel is a talented lad and if he really wants to be a player then we will help him as much as we can along the way. “Perhaps a change of environ-

ment will be beneficial to him and help him make that step up to first team football quicker than perhaps would have been the case at Manchester United. There is no doubt he has exceptional talent.”

Chelsea signed Belgium international Kevin de Bruyne from Genk although the midfielder will spend the rest of the season on loan with the Belgian club, the London club confirmed. The 20-year-old’s transfer deadline day capture means he becomes the latest Belgian player on Chelsea’s books, joining compatriots Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois, currently on loan at Spanish side Atletico Madrid.

Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill meanwhile said he hoped the capture of Bridge would solve the club’s longrunning vacancy at left-back.

The 31-year-old has played only 58 times for City since joining from Chelsea in 2009, and has appeared for the club just once this season.

“I’m hoping that with Wayne’s undoubted experience and ability he can be a big help to the team until the end of the season,” Sunderland manager Martin O’Neill told the club’s official website.

Elsewhere West Brom signed defender Liam Ridgewell from Midlands rivals Birmingham, now in the second-tier Championship, for an undisclosed fee.

Accounting giants Deloitte meanwhile reported in an initial analysis of the January window that transfer spending had reached £35 million as of 0945 GMT yesterday, compared to £90 million at the same stage last year.—AFP

Liverpool maul Wolves Wolves 0

Liverpool 3

LONDON: Wigan Athletic’s Dutch defender Ronnie Stam (left) vies with Tottenham Hotspur’s French-Cameroonian defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto (right) during the English Premier League football match. —AFP

Spurs see off Wigan Tottenham 3

Wigan 1

LONDON: Gareth Bale scored twice and Luk a M odric added another goal as Tottenham beat Wigan 3-1 yesterday to move within sight of the Premier League lead af ter M anchester Cit y lost at Everton.

Bale’s volley in the 29th minute was followed up by Modric’s cool finish five minutes later from 18 yards to give Spurs a 2-0 halftime lead.

Bale struck again for his 11th goal of the season in the 64th, before James McArthur scored a consolation goal for Wigan in the 80th.

Coming off a draw against Wolves and a loss to Man City, Tottenham is now only five points behind City and Man United.

Spurs are also seven points clear in the final automatic qualifying spot for the Champions League from fourth-place Chelsea, which was held to a 1-1 draw at Swansea.—AP

EPL results/standings LONDON: Collated English Premier League results yesterday: Everton 1 (Gibson 60) Manchester City 0; Manchester United 2 (Hernandez 38-pen, Berbatov 53pen) Stoke 0; Swansea 1 (Sinclair 39) Chelsea 1 (Taylor 90-og); Tottenham 3 (Bale 29, 64, Modric 34) Wigan 1 (McArthur 80); Wolves 0 Liverpool 3 (Carroll 52, Bellamy 61, Kuyt 78).

Playing today (200GMT unless stated) Aston Villa v QPR (1945GMT); Blackburn v Newcastle; Bolton v Arsenal; Fulham v West Brom; Sunderland v Norwich

Man City Man Utd Tottenham Chelsea Liverpool Arsenal Newcastle Stoke Everton Norwich

23 23 23 23 23 22 22 23 23 22

17 17 15 12 10 11 10 8 8 7

3 3 4 6 8 3 6 6 5 8

3 3 4 5 5 8 6 9 10 7

60 56 44 41 28 39 32 23 23 32

19 21 25 26 21 33 30 35 26 36

54 54 49 42 38 36 36 30 29 29

Sunderland Aston Villa Swansea Fulham West Brom QPR Bolton Blackburn Wolves Wigan

22 22 23 22 22 22 22 22 23 23

7 6 6 6 7 5 6 4 4 3

6 9 9 8 4 5 1 6 6 6

9 7 8 8 11 12 15 12 13 14

29 26 24 28 22 22 28 33 25 20

24 29 28 31 31 37 47 45 43 48

27 27 27 26 25 20 19 18 18 15

LONDON: Andy Carroll boosted Liverpool’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League as he scored his fifth goal of the season to help his side to a convincing 30 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers yesterday.

The striker joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for £35 million ($55.2m) on transfer deadline day 12 months ago and he repaid another small portion of his transfer fee with a closerange finish to open the scoring in the 52nd minute.

Craig Bellamy curled home Liverpool’s second nine minutes later and Dirk Kuyt wrapped up the points with a low strike in the 78th minute at the end of a sweeping counter-attack.

Liverpool coach Kenny Dalglish made five changes from the team that knocked Manchester United out of the FA Cup as he took the decision to rest skipper Steven Gerrard.

Glen Johnson, Jay Spearing, Charlie Adam, Bellamy and Kuyt were all recalled, with Martin Kelly, Stewar t Downing and Jamie Carragher dropped to the bench, while Maxi Rodriguez was left out completely.

Mick McCar thy made one change from the Wolves team that lost to Aston Villa last time out as Eggert Jonsson came into the centre of midfield for the suspended Karl Henry.

Liverpool created an opening

LONDON: Liverpool’s Scottish midfielder Charlie Adam (left) shoots during the English Premier League football match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. —AFP

in the third minute when Bellamy’s cross from the left was flicked on by Carroll into the path of Kuyt inside the six-yard box, but the Dutch striker was unable to control a difficult ball.

Wolves’ best early chance came in the 12th minute when Kevin Foley delivered a dangerous curling ball from the right but David Edwards failed to make clean contact with a shot that went straight into the arms of Liverpool goalkeeper Jose Reina.

Edwards headed high and wide from an unmarked position three minutes later when he was picked out by Michael Kightly’s free-kick as Wolves responded to Liverpool’s positive early intent.

Liverpool began to turn up the heat on Wolves and felt they were denied a penalty in the

36th minute when Emmanuel Frimpong appeared to nudge Adam from behind but referee Anthony Taylor waved away the appeals.

The lively Bellamy forced Wales compatriot Wayne Hennessey to make a diving save to his left shortly before halftime, while Kightly saw his shot from the edge of the box whistle past the post after a neat onetwo with Steven Fletcher.

Liverpool seized the initiative after the interval when they took the lead through Carroll after the visitors caught the Wolves defence off guard.

Bellamy took a quick throw-in near the 18-yard box and Adam whipped an inch-perfect cross from the left that found Carroll, who escaped the attentions of Jonsson to prod the ball past

Spurs commit to new stadium in Tottenham

Poland wants Euro 2012 to showcase its success WARSAW: Poland hopes Euro 2012 will attract about a million tourists and showcase its economic success and political stability at a time when a debt crisis has engulfed most of the European continent, Sports Minister Joanna Mucha told Reuters.

Poland and Ukraine will co-host the European soccer games in June and July and Warsaw has pegged an ambitious infrastructure building programme - the largest since the country overthrew communism in 1989 to the tournament.

“The championship is a fantastic opportunity to build up our image, as abroad it is often still far from true. We expect around a million soccer fans and tourists to visit Poland during the games,” Mucha said in an interview authorised for release yesterday.

“I can only say - come over. You will be really surprised by what we managed to accomplish over these 20-plus years.” Over the weekend Poland’s National Stadium, built for the tournament, opened in Warsaw and the host cities of Gdansk and Wroclaw also have new sports venues, while the stadium in Poznan underwent a thorough modernisation.

Poland has built 1,440 kilometres of roads since UEFA’s 2007 decision embracing the joint bid with its eastern neighbor and hopes for several hundred million zlotys in additional revenue from visitors attending the matches. “Direct revenue related to hosting Euro 2012 never covers the costs calculated together with infrastructural investments,” Mucha said. “But Euro 2012 is a gargantuan civilisational jump for Poland, which to a large extent has already happened.”

The heavy investments, co-founded by the European Union’s aid funds, have supported Poland’s continuous economic growth since the global crisis erupted in 2008, making it the only bloc member to avoid recession so far. Mucha, who also oversees Poland’s security preparations, said Warsaw still had to work out procedures aimed at coordinating multiple units and test their effectiveness.

“Poland has never had such a complex logistical event up to date. We have to be well prepared and it’s not that much about riots, which in fact are quite easy to control. I mostly fear various events happening at the same time, including ones completely unrelated to the games, like weather conditions, when a clash of competences can occur,” Mucha said.

“It could be a heat wave impacting health and behavior of the fans as well as some infrastructure,” she added.

Mucha said the spat between Poland’s centrist government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk, a keen soccer fan and the country’s Football Association (PZPN) did not endanger hosting Euro 2012.

However, once the tournament was over, Warsaw would revive attempts to dismiss PZPN chief Grzegorz Lato, accused by colleagues of corruption, and alter the organisation’s financing structure.

“Negative emotions towards PZPN are so strong now that there is a wide-ranging expectation of change, not only from the society but also within the sports structures themselves,” said Mucha. PZPN has been involved in a series of corruption scandals but consecutive governments have failed to solve the problem.—Reuters

Hennessey. Liverpool added a second when Bellamy cut inside from the left and took the shooting opportunity afforded to him as the Wolves defence backed off by bending a low shot into the bottom-right corner.

Dalglish’s side were now firmly in control and Kuyt forced Hennessey to tip a rasping shot over the bar shortly after with a well-struck shot from the edge of the box.

The Dutch international had his goal in the 78th minute though, as Liverpool punished Wolves on the counter-attack started by a cross-field pass from Luis Enrique.

Kuyt exchanged passes with Adam before smashing a low shot across goal and past the despairing d i ve of Hennessey.—AFP

FRANCE: Lyon’s French forward Alexandre Lacazette (right) vies with Lorient’s Argentinian defender Lucas Mareque (left) during the French League Cup football match. —AFP

Lyon stun Lorient in League Cup PARIS: Lyon fought back from two goals down to win 4-2 at Lorient in a pulsating French League Cup semi-final yesterday and reach their first domestic final since their French Cup success in 2008.

Lorient led 2-0 with 10 minutes to play, but Alexandre Lacazette pulled a goal back before Jimmy Briand’s 94th-minute equaliser took the game into extra time, where goals from Bafetimbi Gomis and Lacazette were to prove decisive.

“It was a real cup match, a very open match,” said Lyon coach Remi Garde. “It was physical and mental strength that took us through. The players had to dig deep within themselves for what was needed to take us into the final.”

Lyon, bidding to end a four-year trophy drought, had several chances to break the deadlock in the first half but talismanic striker Lisandro Lopez failed to hit the target despite three one-on-one opportunities.

Lorient also threatened on several occasions during a hugely entertaining first 45 minutes at Stade du Moustoir, notably when Maxime Barthelme hit the crossbar with a magnificent dipping volley from 30 yards.

The hosts broke the deadlock in the 59th minute, with Swiss international Innocent Emeghara swerving past Lyon captain Cris before curling a low shot around Hugo Lloris. —AFP

LONDON: Tottenham Hotspur’s plans to build a new stadium close to the site of their existing home of White Hart Lane moved a step closer yesterday, ending any doubts they would leave the area where they were formed 130 years ago.

Spurs, whose bid to move to the Olympic Stadium in Stratford after the London Games was rejected, said in a joint statement with the local Haringey Council yesterday that they were committed to regenerating the area around their ground.

The project will be helped by 27 million pounds ($42.34 million) of local and central government funding.

Last summer’s London riots began close to White Hart Lane before spreading across the country, but Spurs and Haringey Council see the building of a new state-of-theart stadium as central to a major regeneration of the north Tottenham area.

“Spurs has reconfirmed its intention to stay in the area which has been at the heart of its history for more than 130 years and the club and council will work together to rejuvenate the area - seeking to deliver an iconic, new Premier League stadium development and a host of local improvements,” the statement said.

Subject to government approval, Haringey Council will invest nine million pounds towards new and improved public spaces, heritage work and environmental improvements in north Tottenham.

In addition, the Mayor of London has committed 18 million pounds to the regeneration of the area with improvements to local transport, highways and infrastructure.

Spurs added that the project, which will include the new stadium, new homes, shops and leisure facilities, will represent an overall investment of hundreds of millions of pounds. Some funding would also come from the private sector. Spurs’ chairman, Daniel Levy, said: “As a major employer and business in the area we are delighted with this commitment from the Mayor and Haringey Council.

“We therefore see this as a commitment from the public sector to the Tottenham area and one which strengthens our ability to deliver a new stadium scheme with the potential to kick-start the long-term regeneration of north Tottenham.”

Spurs, who are third in the Premier League and in the hunt for their first league title since 1961, have played at White Hart Lane since 1899. The ground has a capacity of about 36,000 while the new stadium has a projected capacity of 58,000.—Reuters

Morocco wrap up Cup with win

Hornets fall, Thunder silenced

18

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

London police make arrest in Olympics scam

Page 17

LONDON: Manchester United’s Dimitar Berbatov (centre) fights for the ball against Stoke’s Andy Wilkinson (right) and Ryan Shawcross during their English Premier League soccer match at Old Trafford Stadium. —AP

United join City at the top Man United 2

Stoke 0

MANCHESTER: Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov each claimed a penalty as Manchester United’s 2-0 victory over Stoke drew them level with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.

With injury and illness to Anders

Lindegaard and David de Gea, respectively, forcing United to hand a league debut to 21-year- old deputy Ben Amos, the penalty decisions ensured the defending Premier League champions enjoyed a comfortable evening.

United took the lead after 38 minutes when Jermaine Pennant was judged to have tripped United’s South Korean international midfielder Park JiSung in the area.

In the absence of regular penalty taker Wayne Rooney, who has failed on four of his last eight attempts, Hernandez strode up and calmly beat Thomas Sorensen with a shot into the bottom left-hand corner.

Seven minutes into the second half, Antonio Valencia surged into the area with Jon Walters tugging at him from behind, a move which referee Mike Jones instantly deemed worthy of a penalty.

This time, surprisingly given Hernandez’s earlier success, Berbatov strode up to the mark and scored just as convincingly as his team mate had, low into the bottom right.

The opening goal was inevitable in a game in which Stoke’s primary aim appeared to be to test United’s rookie goalkeeper with long-range shots.

Walters chanced his arm from 25 yards and Kenwyne Jones volleyed

wide from outside the box inside the opening 10 minutes. But the bulk of the first period was spent with United patiently trying to break down Stoke’s dogged resistance.

Paul Scholes teed up Michael Carrick for a promising early shot which was charged down by Ryan Shawcross and another Carrick strike won a 21st minute corner.

That resulted in Scholes shooting from outside the area sending a fierce strike just wide of the post and into the advertising hoardings.

Patrice Evra appealed in vain for a penalty after his run into the area was halted by slight contact from Dean

Whitehead and Berbatov’s telling pass then freed Valencia down the right but his cross was too close to Sorensen who parried the ball to safety.

Carrick then linked intelligently with Park and Berbatov before rolling a left-foot shot inches wide, a miss followed moments later by the opening goal.

Even after taking the lead from the penalty, United might have had a second spotkick when a Hernandez cross struck Shawcross’s hand although referee Jones clearly viewed the infringement as accidental.

After Chris Smalling created an early second half opening for Berbatov,

Chelsea rescue draw at Swansea in EPL

Everton upset Man City

Chelsea 1

Swansea 1 Everton 1

Man City 0

LIVERPOOL: Darron Gibson provided former club Manchester United with a vital boost in the title race to extend Everton’s remarkable hoodoo over Roberto Mancini.

Gibson’s first goal since his £500,000 move enabled United to go level on points with Mancini’s league leaders and ensure City have now only one victory from their last 21 visits to Goodison Park.

The Republic of Ireland international’s arrival earlier last month was not warmly welcomed by Everton supporters but this telling contribution could hand the initiative back to his old employers.

Goodison Park may have proven a pain for Mancini but Manchester City’s struggles there have been even more frustrating over the years.

City always seem to come unstuck against the Toffees and went into this clash desperate for a fourth successive league win. Mancini’s title chasers could have been behind after just six minutes but for the presence of a former Everton favourite.

Denis Stracqualarsi’s header from Leighton Baines’ corner beat Joe Hart but Joleon Lescott hacked the ball off the line before City’s defence cleared.

City have stumbled in recent weeks, losing their first two league games of 2012 and exiting both

which was charged down by the visiting defence, Jones finally decided United merited a second penalty and, thereafter, the game looked well beyond Stoke.

Pennant’s free-kick almost presented Jones with a chance and the Stoke winger also crossed well for substitute Cameron Jerome whose header was first fumbled, then saved on the line,

by Amos.

Amazingly, it appeared that United should have had a third penalty decision after Evra appeared to be brought down by Whitehead after 70 minutes following another flowing passage of play.—AFP

LONDON: Manchester City’s Samir Nasri (left) vies for the ball against Everton’s Leighton Baines during their English Premier League soccer match at Goodison Park. —AP Cups in the space of 17 days.

But they were clearly on a mission to end their Everton hoodoo and Gael Clichy, Edin Dzeko and Sergio Aguero all slashed shots wide from decent positions.

At least Moyes can power up his own bid for a top ten finish after the £5.5m signing of Nikica Jelavic from Rangers.

Jelavic was sat in the stands and is set to be a direct replacement for Louis Saha, who was not even named in the Everton squad.

And the Croatia international saw Everton nearly sneak ahead ten minutes before half-time but Marouane Fellaini bundled Stracqualarsi’s cross past the near post.

But Samir Nasri came closest to breaking the deadlock a minute later with a devastating drive from 35 yards that came crashing back off the

crossbar. Play was temporarily suspended shortly before the break when an Everton supporter handcuffed himself to Hart’s post.

It was a bizarre incident, and Hart watched on bemused as police took five minutes to untie the pitch invader with bolt cutters before leading him off. City dominated the early stages of the second half but failed to make the most of their openings.

And Gibson punished their profligacy on the hour to earn instant cult hero status with a drive that deflected off Gareth Barry.

It was Gibson’s first Premier League goal since March 2010 and time will tell how influential it proves for his old club in the race for the title.

Gibson almost powered in another as City wilted and Mancini’s misery was complete when Phil Neville escaped punishment for a clear handball in the penalty area from David Silva’s cross.—AFP

SWANSEA: A last-gasp own goal by Neil Taylor gave Chelsea a 1-1 draw at Swansea yesterday, as the Welsh club was narrowly denied another impressive home victory in the Premier League.

Scott Sinclair had given Swansea the lead when the former Blues winger volleyed the ball over Petr Cech five minutes before halftime after a poor defensive header by Jose Bosingwa.

Swansea, which stunned Arsenal at Liberty Stadium two weeks ago with a 3-2 win, looked set to take another big scalp when Chelsea defender Ashley Cole was sent off for a second booking in the 86th. However, the visitors still leveled when Bosingwa’s shot was deflected into the net by Taylor in injury time.

Chelsea, without captain John Terry due to a knee injury and with new signing Gary Cahill on the bench, had Branislav Ivanovic and David Luiz in central defense and the former saved the visitors twice during a sluggish opening from Andre Villas-Boas’ side.

Ivanovic first denied Danny Graham a simple finish after Steven Caulker’s header had rebounded to the striker. Ivanovic was involved again when a long ball pumped toward Graham caused chaos in the visiting defense.

Cech could only clear the ball to Gylfi Sigurdsson, who skipped past the goalkeeper

but saw Ivanovic block his goal-bound effort.

Graham’s follow-up attempt was kept out by Luiz and Joe Allen was denied by the recovering goalkeeper.

Chelsea then gradually began to take a stranglehold on the game, dominating possession and pinning Swansea deep in their own half.

Ashley Williams made a terrific interception to cut out Fernando Torres’ intended pass to an unmarked Sturridge, while Juan Mata fired wastefully wide of either post after more patient buildup.

But after absorbing the pressure Swansea took the lead against the run of play as Sinclair netted against his former club.

Sigurdsson’s free kick was weakly headed away by Bosingwa, and a swing of Sinclair’s left foot saw the ball float over Cech into the far corner.

Stung by the concession of the goal so late in the first half, Chelsea completely dominated the opening exchanges of the second period.

The visitors initially created little in the way of clear-cut chances, although they would have leveled had any blue-shirted attackers made the effort to follow in Cole’s astute ball across the Swansea six-yard box.

Villas-Boas brought Michael Essien on for Romeu, and the move almost paid instant dividends as the Ghanaian blasted a fierce drive narrowly over Michel Vorm’s bar.

But Chelsea wasted several more chances and grew increasingly frustrated as Cole picked up a second booking for a rash tackle on Dyer and was dismissed.

But their pressure finally told as Bosingwa again tricked his way into the box and saw his driven effort strike Taylor to deceive Vorm and rescue a point.—AP

UAE CB to cap interest on credit cards: Report Page 22

Huge fall in UK consumer credit, money supply Page 25

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

Santander feels pain of Spanish property crisis

KSE stocks under pressure Page 24

Page 23

ATHENS: Homeless eat outside central shops as the sign on the cardboard reads ‘I am homeless, I ask for help, I need medicines, thank you’ in Athens. — AP

Europe races to secure Greek debt relief Euro-zone leaders set weekend deadline for bailout BRUSSELS: Europe raced yesterday to seal a massive debt relief program for Greece after EU leaders set a weekend deadline for a lastchance bailout to save the country from financial collapse.

European Union president Herman Van Rompuy called for a deal between Greece and its bank creditors on a debt writedown plus the completion of a new 130 billion euro ($172 billion) rescue package “by the end of the week.”

The appeal came at the first EU summit of the year which ended late Monday with 25 of 27 EU states joining a German-led pact tightening budget discipline across Europe and a deal on a permanent rescue fund for the euro-zone.

Greek Prime Minister Lucas Papademos said he hoped to reach a deal with banks “in the coming days” after weeks of complex negotiations aimed at slashing 100 billion euros from the country’s 350-billion-euro debt mountain. A deal must be reached by the end of the week for a bond exchange program to be technically feasible and begin on February 13, an EU official said, adding that the swap would take place over two weeks.

Greece is racing against the clock to avert

bankruptcy, with 14.5 billion euros in bond redemptions due on March 20.

The European Central Bank (ECB), eurozone governments and other EU institutions holding Greek bonds are also under growing pressure to accept losses. An EU official said the aim would be to negotiate an Official Sector Involvement (OSI) program after the completion of the Private Sector Involvement (PSI) deal. “It’s too early now to say we need some extra funding,” Papademos told reporters. “Our goal is to avert it.” European stock markets advanced in mid-day trade and Asian shares were mostly up yesterday while the euro rose to $1.3183 from $1.3134 late in New York on Monday. While EU leaders agreed to deepen fiscal integration through the new pact, the summit was tainted by acrimony over a German proposal to put the Greek budget under control of a special EU budget tsar.

“There cannot be any talk of putting any nation under wardenship,” said French President Nicolas Sarkozy. “It would not be reasonable, democratic and efficient.”

Although Sweden and others showed sympathy, German Chancellor Angela Merkel did not push the plan during the summit after it

was leaked over the weekend. “I think that in light of the discussions, which are often very emotional, it is important that we come to a conclusion” about the extent of the surveillance of Greece, she said.

Athens has been under constant pressure since it was granted a first 110 billion euro bailout in 2010 to cut spending and accelerate the pace of economic reforms in return for the aid. EU leaders tried at the summit to shift the focus from bailouts to finding ways to counter a looming economic recession and create jobs across Europe. Official figures showed yesterday that euro-zone unemployment jumped to a record 10.4 percent in November and December, with 16.5 million people out of work. The jobless rate among people under 25 years old was even worse at 21.3 percent.

Hoping to prevent future crises, 25 of 27 EU countries adopted the new pact on budgetary discipline. The Czech Republic joined Britain on the outside looking in, but a threat

by Poland to withdraw evaporated after France gave ground in an argument about the influence of non-euro countries on eurozone summits.

Pushed by Germany and the ECB, the

treaty-to be formally signed in March will require governments to introduce laws on balanced budgets and impose near automatic sanctions on countries that violate deficit rules.

Only those countries that sign up will be able to access bailout aid from a new rescue fund whose legal basis was also established at the talks. It will enter force after 12 nations ratify it.

The pact is a “first step toward a fiscal union,” said ECB chief Mario Draghi amid hopes among some governments that the treaty will prompt the central bank to step up a controversial bond purchase program. With Italy and Spain still fragile, EU leaders will discuss in March whether to boost the size of the 500 billion euro European Stability Mechanism (ESM), the permanent rescue fund due to being operating in July. Germany, Europe’s economic powerhouse and paymaster, has resisted calls to increase its contribution, but Italian premier Mario Monti suggested Merkel may be ready to give in. “We are getting the feeling that there is a shift in Germany’s position and I am optimistic,” Monti said. —AFP

US budget deficit to dip to $1.1tn WASHINGTON: A new budget report released yesterday predicts the US government will run a $1.1 trillion deficit in the fiscal year that ends in September, a slight dip from last year but still very high by any measure.

The Congressional Budget Office report also says that annual deficits will remain in the $1 trillion range for the next several years if Bush-era tax cuts slated to expire in December are extended, as commonly assumed.

The report is yet another reminder of the perilous fiscal situation the government is in, but it is commonly assumed that President Barack Obama and lawmakers in Congress that little will be accomplished on the deficit issue during an election year.

The study also predicts modest economic growth of 2 percent this year and forecasts that the unemployment rate will remain above 8 percent this year. That is based on an assumption that President Barack Obama will fail to win renewal of payroll tax cuts and jobless benefits by the end of next month. The new figures also show that last summer’s budget and debt pact has barely made a dent in the government’s fiscal woes.

The pact imposed $2.1 trillion in spending cuts over 10 years, but the latest estimates predict $11 trillion in accumulated deficits over the 2013-2022 time frame if the Bush-era cuts in taxes on income, investments, large estates and on families with children are renewed. Obama has proposed largely

extending them, but allowing them to expire for upper-income taxpayers.

The deficit would require the government to borrow 30 cents of every dollar it spends.

Put another way, the deficit will reach 7 percent of the size of the economy, a slight dip from last year’s 8.7 percent of gross domestic product. The CBO report shows that the deficit dilemma would largely be solved if the tax cuts enacted in 2001 and 2003 - and renewed in 2010 through the end of this year - were allowed to lapse. Under that scenario, the deficit would drop to $585 billion in 2013 and to $220 billion in 2017.

Meanwhile, a private research group says that US consumer confidence retreated in January after two straight months of big gains. The Conference Board is reporting yesterday that its Consumer Confidence Index now stands at 61.1, down from a revised 64.8 in December. Economists had expected a reading of 68. The index had surged from 40.9 in October to 64.8 in December.

The Conference Board says that even though consumers were more upbeat about jobs, they were less optimistic about income prospects. Rising gas prices have also taken a toll on sentiment. A reading of 90 indicates a healthy economy, a level the index hasn’t approached since December 2007 when the recession began. Economists watch the confidence numbers closely because consumers’ spending accounts for about 70 percent of US economic activity. — AP

MANILA: Lance Gokongwei (center), chief executive officer and chairman of Philippines budget airline Cebu Pacific, poses for photos with the company’s flight attendants prior to a press conference in Manila yesterday, announcing the company’s plans to fly long haul services. — AFP

DP World sees 2011 earnings in line with expectations DUBAI: DP World , the world’s third-largest port operator, yesterday said its core earnings for 2011 would be in line with analysts’ expectations, as container volumes rose 10 percent over the prior year.

The company, one of the more profitable assets of debt-laden Dubai World, also said it would “comfortably” meet a $3 billion syndicated loan facility which matures in October. “Dealing with the revolver is not seen as an issue,” Yuvraj Narayan, its chief financial officer, said on a

conference call, noting the operator has $4 billion in cash on its balance sheet.

“As far as this particular facility is concerned, we have the ability to deal with the maturity.”

Bookrunners on the $3 billion loan signed in October 2007 were Barclays, Citi, Deutsche Bank and RBS. DP World said it handled 54.7 million twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEU) during the year across all its terminals, compared with 49.6 million TEUs in 2010. —Reuters

Saudi nominates Al-Moneef to top OPEC post DUBAI: Top oil exporter Saudi Arabia has nominated a candidate for OPEC’s next secretary general, a Gulf OPEC delegate familiar with the matter said, in a move that may reignite a quarrel over influence in OPEC between Gulf Arab nations and Iran.

The current secretary general of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Abdullah Al-Badri of Libya, completes his second and final three-year term at the end of 2012. OPEC will seek to select a replacement, to start in 2013, at its next meeting in June.

Saudi Arabia has nominated Majid Al-Moneef, Saudi’s governor at OPEC, for the post, the OPEC delegate told Reuters. “There is a lot of support for Moneef.

He’s well respected and an experienced economist,” the Gulf OPEC delegate said.

The secretary general is the 12-member organization’s lead representative on the world stage, helps formulate the group’s output policy and is in charge of OPEC’s secretariat in Vienna.

Badri’s appointment starting in 2007 ended a threeyear impasse over the job. OPEC failed to reach a consensus on who would succeed Venezuela’s Alvaro Silva.

Iran, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait nominated candidates, but inter-Gulf political rivalry made it impossible to reach agreement. Badri, a former head of Libya’s OPEC delegation, was a compromise. “The issue of nominations will be discussed in the upcoming OPEC meeting in June,” the delegate said.

If agreement on Moneef were achieved, he would be the first Saudi secretary general of OPEC since Mohammad Saleh Joukhdar served a one-year term in 1967, the sole Saudi in the post so far.

The post has tended to go to candidates from smaller OPEC producers to spread influence beyond Saudi Arabia and Iran, the two largest producers in the group. So far, Iran has not nominated a candidate, the Islamic Republic’s OPEC governor, Mohammad Ali Khatibi, told Reuters. “There has been no official letter from OPEC requesting us to nominate someone, but I’m sure when the time comes the minister will select someone,” said Khatibi.

“The secretary-general role is a very sensitive one, and last time it took a long time to decide. It will be hard to say what will happen this time,” he added.

One analyst said Saudi Arabia may feel that can win Iran’s support for its candidate.

“Now Saudi said they are comfortable with oil at $100 that brings them closer to Iran,” said Kamel AlHarami, an oil analyst based in Kuwait. OPEC at its last meeting in December agreed a target of 30 million barrels per day, based on a proposal by the secretariat.

This settled a six-month-old argument within OPEC after Iran, Venezuela and African countries opposed a Saudi-led proposal to boost output at OPEC’s June 2011 meeting to make up for a shortfall in Libyan supply. “The secretariat has had an important role in recent months in bringing members together and the production estimates provided by them are the ones being followed,” said the OPEC delegate. — Reuters

22

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

business

UAE CB to cap interest on credit cards: Report

Doha Metro tenders delayed to Q2: Head DOHA: Tenders for the Doha Metro project will be issued in the second quarter, Qatar Railways Co’s group director said yesterday, in the second delay in tendering the $41 billion rail project.

“It will be in April or May,” Ghanim Al-Ibrahim told Reuters by telephone.

In October, the company said it would delay tenders until the first quarter of 2012 in order to complete more detailed studies on the project.

Qatar Railways, which had originally planned to issue the first tender by the end of 2011, said in October it had received bids from around 60 consortiums with at least two contractors each.

The project will include four rail lines and will link stadiums for the 2022 soccer World Cup which Qatar will host, with an underground component in the centre of the capital Doha. It is expected to employ more than 20,000 workers during the peak of construction.

New move to curb bad loans DUBAI: The United Arab Emirates central bank is finalizing rules that would cap the interest rate banks charge on credit cards at 18 percent annually to curb bad loans, Al Khaleej newspaper reported yesterday, citing a senior central bank official. The paper said the new rules will be published this month. The central bank officials were not immediately available to comment when Reuters tried to reach them. Banks in the UAE, one of the world’s top five oil exporters, charge between 27 and 36 percent a year, much higher than many other Gulf Arab countries, the paper said.

The rate stands at 18 percent in nearby Qatar and Kuwait, while lenders in Saudi Arabia charge between 19 and 24 percent. The global credit crunch of 2008-2009 exposed lending excesses

in the UAE where many enjoy lavish lifestyles, splurging tax-free pay on luxury cars and villas.

In November, provisions for non-performing loans at UAE banks reached a record high of 53.2 billion dirhams ($14.5 billion), up 20 percent since the start of 2011, the latest central bank data shows.

The UAE economy shrank 1.6 percent due to the global financial turmoil in 2009, its worst performance in two decades, as oil prices plunged and a local property bubble burst, straining banks.

Bank lending has remained in low single digits since then with banks hit by a $25 billion debt restructuring of the state-owned Dubai World conglomerate in 2010.

Last December, the central bank said it had

approved amendments to liquidity rules for UAE lenders but did not give details. The exposure of UAE banks to sovereign and private sector debt in crisis-hit Europe is small and their capital adequacy ratio was around 11 percent, Central Bank Governor Sultan Nasser Al-Suweidi said in October.

Foreign bank claims in the Gulf Arab region stood at $323 billion in June 2011, or about 29 percent of the regional economic output with the UAE showing the highest levels, Deutsche Bank said in a report earlier this month.

Analysts polled by Reuters in December expected the $297 billion UAE economy to expand by 3.9 percent in 2011, before slowing down to 3.1 percent this year on a weaker global growth. — Reuters

Iran grain imports stalled by sanctions TEHRAN: At least 24 cargo ships carrying a total 480,000 tons of wheat and other grains are sitting off Iran’s coast, unable to unload because of the effects of sanctions on the Islamic republic, an industry source said.

EU and US sanctions barring contact with Iran’s financial sector have caused letters of credit to dry up, forcing grain suppliers to stay away from unloading docks until they can be paid, the source said on condition of anonymity.

“Transfer of money through banks is almost impossible,” said the source in the import sector.

Iran imports around 4.5 million tons of grain a year, according to the International Grains Council, most of it maize from Brazil, Argentina and Ukraine, mainly for animal feed. Its farmers produce around 21 million tons of grain per year, according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

The stalled shipments showed the impact Western sanctions imposed over the past three months.

The United States and Europe have applied the measures in an effort to pressure Iran to give up its nuclear activities, which they fear include research for atomic weapons, despite Tehran’s denials. — AFP

Saudi, Kuwait may award Hout gas deals in Feb KHOBAR: A Kuwaiti and Saudi joint venture is close to awarding contracts to recover gas from their shared Hout oilfield, with US-based McDermott International and South Korea’s Daewoo Engineering and Construction the lowest bidders, industry sources said.

The Al-Khafji Joint Operations Co (KJO) - set up by state oil firm Saudi Aramco and Kuwait Petroleum Corp (KPC) could announce the winning bids in about two weeks.

Prospective contractors were given the option to submit combined offshore and onshore project proposals and France’s Technip submitted the lowest combined bid, sources said. The individual proposals submitted for the onshore and offshore parts of the project by McDermott and Daewoo were lower than the combined Technip bid.

But two sources said KJO would have to bear the additional cost of managing the two projects if it picks two contractors. The winning firms are expected to build offshore gas gathering facilities, a subsea pipeline to carry 48 million cubic feet of gas per day, and onshore gas facilities. India’s Larsen and Toubro, Italy’s Saipem, CCC and UAE’s NPCC, South Korea’s GS Samsung Engineering were among firms invited to bid. — Reuters

Two Doha-based sources said that plans for the project’s underground component were in question.

“They’re seriously considering whether this will be something people in Doha actually use after the (2022) tournament. An underground metro takes a very long time to build,” one source close to the deal said, declining to be identified.

“They are re-evaluating that part of the project.” In 2009 Deutsche Bahn and state-owned Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Co signed an agreement to design the project.

The tiny Gulf Arab state, the world’s top liquefied natural gas exporter, has allocated 40 percent of its budget between now and 2016 to infrastructure projects.

It plans to spend $11 billion on a new international airport, $5.5 billion on a deep-water seaport and $1 billion for a transport corridor in Doha. It will spend an additional $20 billion on roads. — Reuters

Gold back in vogue, posts biggest gain since Aug LONDON: Gold prices were on course for their biggest monthly rise since August yesterday, supported by a weaker dollar and raising the possibility of a climb toward last year’s record high of just over $1,900 per ounce. Sentiment for gold at the end of January compares starkly with late December, when prices dropped by more than 10 percent in their biggest monthly fall since the collapse of Lehman Brothers in an investor dash for cash.

A $400 price drop from last September’s record $1,920.30 had left investors questioning whether gold had ended an 11-year rally. Gold was up 0.8 percent at $1,743.40 an ounce by 1326 GMT, having earlier touched $1,744.80 its highest since mid-December and up some 11.2 percent on the month to date.The euro rose against the dollar on hopes for a Greek debt restructuring deal that would help the country avoid a disorderly default, possibly setting itself up for a test of a key chart level. A weaker dollar makes gold cheaper for holders of other currencies.

While recovering global share prices and hopes of a deal for Greece tempered gold’s safe-haven gloss yesterday, concerns that Portugal could follow a similar path to Greece and data pointing to a poor first quarter in the euro-zone was supportive.

More broadly, bullion was benefitting from a favorable monetary policy backdrop, with a jump of almost 5 percent last week after the US Federal Reserve pledged to keep interest rates near zero until at least late 2014. “There’s been a lot of money put to work here during January. Gold was at the beginning of the year one of the few commodities that everyone felt would be a good performer and people have been investing accordingly,” said Ole Hansen, senior manager

CALIFORNIA: This Jan. 30, 2012 photo, shows the ExxonMobil refinery behind a Mobil station in Torrance, Calif. Exxon said yesterday, its fourth-quarter earnings rose 2 percent as higher oil prices made up for a drop in production. —AP

Higher oil prices boost Exxon Q4 profit 2% ments recently have been in US natural gas fields, which so far haven’t paid off because gas prices have dropped to their lowest level in a decade.

Oil and gas production fell 8.8 percent in the fourth quarter compared with the same period last year.

For the full year, Exxon’s net income rose 34.8 percent while revenue rose 26.9 percent.

Last week, Chevron Corp said profits slipped 3.2 percent. ConocoPhillips reported a 66-percent increase in quarterly earnings, though much of that came from the sale of a pipeline and other assets. Royal Dutch Shell expects to report its financial results later this week.

Exxon shares fell by 99 cents, or 1.2 percent, to $84.50 in premarket trading. —AP

NEW YORK: Exxon Mobil Corp’s fourthquarter profit rose 2 percent as higher oil prices made up for a drop in production.

Benchmark crude prices rose 10.3 percent in the final three months of 2011. That helped Exxon post net income of $9.4 billion, or $1.97 per share, in the fourth quarter, matching Wall Street expectations. It made $9.25 billion, or $1.85 per share, a year earlier.

Revenue rose 15.6 percent to $121.6 billion in the latest quarter. The world’s largest publicly traded oil company has seen production decline even after spending a record $36.8 billion last year in search of new sources of crude and natural gas.

Exploration projects can take years to yield new production.

And some of Exxon’s biggest invest-

at Saxo bank. “After the big sell-off we had, there was a lot of nervousness heading into the last quarter. But the decisive move we’ve had, especially over the last week or so, has removed some of that worry,” Hansen said, adding that any correction would be met by buyers.

A top US Federal Reserve official said on Monday he would have preferred a more optimistic statement on the US economy, after the central bank painted a grim picture of the recovery last week and forecast ultra-low interest rates.

“With gold starting 2012 at a cracking pace ... gold may be poised to set fresh highs this year but much earlier than many - ourselves included - would have expected.” Ross Norman, chief executive of Sharps Pixley, said in a note.

Portugal’s 10-year government bond yields fell sharply on the day but remained in sight of 17.0 percent, close to euro-era highs of around 17.4 percent, stoking the fears that Lisbon may become the next Athens.

“Sentiment seems to have improved quite tremendously, I would say. We are now into more bullish territory, more than ever, with the Fed providing enough fundamental support,” said Dominic Schnider, head of commodity research at UBS Wealth Management.

“I think we have good reasons to believe we are going to test $1,805. The Fed was clearly the most important event,” he added.

Gold has gained for the last four weeks, with a spike in prices before the Lunar New Year holidays being driven partly by Chinese buying.

“Before the Chinese New Year really started, we’ve seen quite strong gold exports from Hong Kong to China.

Apparently Chinese demand was very solid,” said Schnider. — Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES Commercial Bank of Kuwait US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian Dollar Australian DLR Indian rupees Sri Lanka Rupee UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi riyals Omani riyals Philippine peso Egyptian pounds

.2730000 .4330000 .3620000 .3000000 .2740000 .2920000 .0040000 .0020000 .0751060 .7317340 .3830000 .0720000 .7173330 .0040000 .0430000

CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES US Dollar/KD .2766500 GB Pound/KD .4352670 Euro .3648600 Swiss francs .3027140 Canadian dollars .2764840 Danish Kroner .0490810 Swedish Kroner .0411160 Australian dlr .2941480 Hong Kong dlr .0356670 Singapore dlr .2205090 Japanese yen .0036300 Indian Rs/KD .0000000 Sri Lanka rupee .0000000 Pakistan rupee .0000000 Bangladesh taka .0000000 UAE dirhams .07533510 Bahraini dinars .7341120 Jordanian dinar .0000000 Saudi Riyal/KD .0737930 Omani riyals .7188520 Philippine Peso .0000000

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. ASIAN COUNTRIES

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar Bangladesh Taka Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - Transfer Irani Riyal - Cash

3.598 5.337 3.154 2.436 3.341 213.250 35.672 3.580 6.336 8.873 0.271 0.273

.2800000 .4420000 .3700000 .3090000 .2820000 .3000000 .0070000 .0035000 .0758610 .7390880 .4000000 .0760000 .7245420 .0072000 .0530000 .27887500 .4385710 .3676290 .3050110 .2785830 .0494540 .0414280 .2963810 .0359380 .2221820 .0036570 .0056440 .0024550 .0030960 .0033130 .0759230 .7396840 .3942720 .0743530 .7243080 .0065470

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

GCC COUNTRIES 74.150 76.402 722.230 738.540 75.715

ARAB COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound - Cash 47.500 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 46.282 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.272 Tunisian Dinar 189.860 Jordanian Dinar 392.670 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.865 Syrian Lier 6.003 Morocco Dirham 33.814 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 277.950 Euro 370.650 Sterling Pound 431.930 Canadian dollar 268.420 Turkish lire 153.940 Swiss Franc 300.620 Australian dollar 277.000 US Dollar Buying 277.750 GOLD 315.500 159.000 81.500

20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash Hongkong dollar Indian rupees Indonesia Iranian tuman Iraqi dinar Japanese yen Jordanian dinar Lebanese pound Malaysian ringgit Morocco dirham Nepalese Rupees New Zealand dollar Nigeria Norwegian krone Omani Riyal

SELL CASH

299.200 739.080 3.640 281.400 545.800 45.300 50.300 167.800 48.040 370.700 36.530 5.810 0.032 0.194 0.249 3.740 394.120 0.188 93.840 46.500 4.270 232.500 1.801 49.000 721.850

3.170 6.740 76.880 74.200 222.870 38.150 2.654 441.000 42.300 307.900 4.300 9.310 198.283 75.770 278.300 1.290

10 Tola

GOLD 1,807.180

SELL DRAFT

297.700 739.080 3.307 279.900

222.900 46.091 369.200 36.380 5.615 0.032

Sterling Pound US Dollar

75.670 277.900

Selling Rate

US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupees Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Cyprus pound Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

277.800 280.197 437.836 368.645 301.730 735.644 75.612 76.250 74.040 391.049 46.102 2.436 5.600 3.081 3.302 6.472 681.431 3.672 8.876 5.848 3.567 92.275

Transfer Rate (Per 1000)

300.95 282.60 309.04 370.03

441.00 3.70 3.600 5.800 2.650 4.250 3.240 76.10 739.00 48.20 394.25 728.00 77.25 74.60

Rate per 1000 (Tran)

US Dollar Pak Rupees Indian Rupees Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso UAE Dirhams Saudi Riyals Bahraini Dinars Egyptian Pounds Pound Sterling Indonesian Rupiah Yemeni Riyal Euro Canadian Dollars Nepali rupee

277.850 3.070 5.610 2.445 3.305 6.520 75.740 74.235 738.500 46.085 442.700 3.190 1.550 372.100 283.400 3.690

Al Mulla Exchange

UAE Exchange Center WLL Australian Dollar Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc Euro

440.97 3.70 3.299 5.591 2.439 3.511 3.079 75.63 739.07 46.13 395.29 722.11 76.62 74.19

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co.

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd

Currency

721.670

306.400 4.300 9.180

Sterling Pound Japanese Yen Bangladesh Taka Indian Rupee Sri Lankan Rupee Nepali Rupee Pakistani Rupee UAE Dirhams Bahraini Dinar Egyptian Pound Jordanian Dinar Omani Riyal Qatari Riyal Saudi Riyal

Currency

393.790 0.187 93.840 3.520 231.000

3.075 6.480 76.450 74.200 222.870 38.150 2.437 439.000

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 439.000 277.900

Rate for Transfer

Bahrain Exchange Company COUNTRY

Pakistani rupees Philippine peso Qatari riyal Saudi riyal Singapore dollar South Africa Sri Lankan rupees Sterling pound Swedish krona Swiss franc Syrian pound Thai bhat Tunisian dollar UAE dirham U.S. dollars Yemeni Riyal

300.00 282.00 309.00 371.80

Currency

Transfer Rate (Per 1000)

US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen Indian Rupee Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupee Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso Pakistan Rupee Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Saudi Riyal

277.650 369.000 438.800 279.700 3.675 5.615 46.070 2.435 3.248 6.463 3.075 739.000 75.575 74.150

*Rates are subject to change

23

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

BUSINESS

Santander feels pain of Spanish property crisis 2011 net profit falls 35% to 5.35 billion euros

MUMBAI: A man walks past the ICICI Bank in Mumbai yesterday. The Indian bank reported net profit growth of 20 percent yesterday, as it shed non-performing loans and boosted interest income. —AP

ICICI Bank profit up 20%, bad loans down MUMBAI: India’s ICICI Bank reported net profit growth of 20 percent yesterday, as it shed non-performing loans and boosted interest income. Analysts and policy makers have been watching the asset quality of Indian banks, on worries that high interest rates, policy bottlenecks and slowing economic growth are hampering the ability of borrowers to repay loans and slowing credit growth.

While ICICI Bank - like other Indian banks - surprised investors with better than expected data on bad loan exposure during the December quar ter, analysts cautioned that things could get worse going forward.

“It’s too early to extrapolate this benign trend of loan loss provisions into the next several quarters,” said Vijay Sarathi, bank ing analyst at Nomura India.

India’s power sector has been especially hard hit, with delays in building out transmission networks and constraints in access to affordable coal. The central bank has raised rates 13 times in a row in an effort to beat down inflation. High interest rates are now imperiling loan repayment, especially among small- and medium-sized companies.

Sarathi expects loan loss provisions as a percentage of average assets at Indian banks to rise over the next year, from 70 basis points to 100 to 120 basis points.

Chief executive Chanda Kochhar emphasized that ICICI’s lending to India’s most troubled sectors is limited.

She said the power sector accounts for 7 percent of ICICI’s outstanding loans.

The bank , she added, has minimal exposure to small- and medium-sized companies. Cash flows from residential housing loans have been stable, and the bank has not seen any “pain” on

account of its commercial real estate loans, she said. Direct exposure to India’s aviation sector is not very large, she said.

ICICI earned 17.3 billion rupees ($325 million) in the December quarter, up from 14.4 billion rupees during the year ago quarter.

Net non-performing assets fell 28 percent from a year ago, to 20.8 billion rupees ($392 million). Provisions for bad loans totaled 3.4 billion rupees ($64 million), down 27 percent from a year ago. Net interest income increased 17 percent, to 27.1 billion rupees ($511 million), from a year ago.

Corporate demand drove loan growth up 19 percent from a year ago, Kochhar said.

“Corporate, we have already seen the growth, retail the growth is just about star ting,” she said. Domestic lending to Indian companies grew 23 percent, while international loans mainly from Indian companies seeking to raise foreign currency loans - grew 18 percent in constant currency terms.

Retail loans grew 8 percent, Kochhar said.

“Even on asset quality, they continued their good performance despite this being a tricky quarter from the macroeconomic environment point of view,” said Vaibhav Agrawal, vice president of research for Angel Broking. He said India’s private sector banks have been ver y conser vative on issuing loans over the last six or seven quarters, making their asset quality better than their publicly owned peers, which dominate lending in India.

“Recognizing the difficult environment, they’ve gone very conservative on lending. That’s paying off now,” he said. The stock rose nearly 6 percent on the news in Mumbai trading. —AP

Pfizer profit skids on Lipitor loss NEW YORK: US pharmaceuticals giant Pfizer yesterday reported profit and sales fell in the fourth quarter, hit hard by the loss of exclusivity on its blockbuster anti-cholesterol drug Lipitor.

Pfizer Inc., the world’s leading drug maker, posted four th- quar ter net income of $1.4 billion, down 50 percent from the year-ago period. Excluding exceptional items, adjusted earnings

SURFSIDE: A box of Relpax pills made by Pfizer, in Surfside. Pfizer Inc’s fourth-quarter profit fell by half due to one-time charges and a drop in US revenue, which was hurt by blockbuster cholesterol drug Lipitor losing patent protection. —AP were 50 cents per share, topping the average analyst forecast of 47 cents.

Fourth-quarter revenue fell to $16.7 billion, down 4.0 percent from the yearago period. For the full year, Pfizer said

net income rose 21 percent from the prior year to $10.0 billion on revenue up 1.0 percent to $67.4 billion. Ian Read, Pfizer’s chairman and chief executive, said that 2011 had been a year of setting a new direction for the company. “I am pleased with our 2011 financial performance, which was achieved in the face of a challenging global market and product losses of exclusivity of approximately $5 billion.”

Pfizer’s US patent on the best-selling drug of all-time, the cholesterol-lowering medication Lipitor, expired on November 30, opening the path to generic competitors for America’s most popular medication. Read said the company boosted its research and development efforts, and had a “next wave of compounds that have shown promise” in the pipeline.

Lipitor came on the market in 1997, and has raked in some $100 billion for Pfizer even in a crowded market that includes various other cholesterol-lowering statins, many of which have already gone generic. For fourth-quarter 2011, US revenues were $6.3 billion, a decline of 12 percent from a year earlier. The share of US sales in total revenues shrank to 38 percent from 41 percent, while international revenues rose 3.0 percent to $10.4 billion.

This year, Read said, Pfizer plans to repurchase about $5 billion in common stock under a recently authorized $10 billion buyback program and to pay more than $6 billion in dividends. Pfizer lowered its 2012 earnings and revenue forecasts. The company estimated earnings of $2.20-2.30 per share, from a prior range of $2.25-2.35. Revenue was seen at $60.5-62.5 billion, instead of the $62.2-64.7 previously forecast. Pfizer shares were up 1.3 percent at $21.85 in pre-market trade. —AP

MADRID: Santander, the euro-zone’s biggest bank, reported a sharp drop in annual profit after it set aside money against foreclosed Spanish property, anticipating government demands that lenders recognize heavy real estate losses.

Spanish banks have hundreds of billions of euros of unsaleable land and property and unrecoverable loans to bankrupt developers sitting on their balance sheets, four years after a housing and construction crash. Santander’s grim outlook for the property sector yesterday comes a day after data showed Spain’s economy looked set to slip into recession after contracting for the first time in two years in the last quarter of 2011.

The Spanish bank took advantage of the European Central Bank’s offer of cheap loans in December, Chief Executive Alfredo Saenz said at a press conference, and had used the cash as a “buffer” rather than lending it on.

Group net profit fell by 35 percent to 5.35 billion euros ($7 billion)in 2011. In Britain, where Santander is the fifth-largest bank, profit fell by 40 percent to 993 million pounds, due to a weak economy, rising funding and regulatory costs and a big hit from compensating customers for mis-sold insurance, the lender said.

Santander made 3.2 billion euros of provisions, of which 1.8 billion euros would allow the lender to recognize losses on repossessed Spanish properties at 50 percent of book value, up from 31 percent.

The bank’s writedown on repossessed property is now in line with Ireland’s 2009 state-driven cleanup after a similar boom and bust. “They are sacrificing the present to develop a better future,” said Alejandro Varela, Madrid-based fund manager at Renta 4, who owns Santander shares and has around 300 million euros under management.

“The quicker they recognize them, the quicker we’ll see a recovery in the next few quarters,” he added. The government is

expected to announce this week new rules forcing banks to recognize losses on loans to developers and reclaimed property with the aim of cleaning up balance sheets and increasing credit flow to the economy.

Some analysts were disappointed that Santander had not marked down loans to

5.5 percent in 2011. Bad loans could hit 6 percent next year in Spain, where nearly one in four people are unemployed, Saenz said.

Unlike weaker domestic players, Santander can absorb greater provisions thanks to thriving businesses outside Spain, especially Latin America. Spain accounts for less than 10 per-

MADRID: President of the Spanish bank Banco Santander, Emilio Botin gives a press conference to announce the 2011 annual results in Madrid yesterday. —AFP bankrupt property developers to the same degree as foreclosed property. Credit Suisse had expected a 3.9 billion euro upfront cost, including writedowns on bad loans.

Completing provisions for real estate in Spain will be a priority this year, Chairman Emilio Botin told reporters. The bank’s total exposure to the sector stands at 32 billion euros. Bad loans as a percentage of total loans crept up across the group, jumping in Spain to

cent of group profit. Santander has raised the 15.3 billion euros demanded by European regulators to protect against sovereign default risk in peripheral euro zone countries six months ahead of the deadline.

The bank has also pushed out an expected initial public offering (IPO) of its British unit to 2013. CEO Saenz told analysts the bank had no plans to carr y out IPOs in the near future. —Reuters

German jobless rate rises in Jan

PORTLAND: A Mattel’s Hot Wheels car from the Larry’s Garage Series is shown in Portland, Oregoan. Mattel Inc said yesterday strong holiday demand for toys including Barbie, Hot Wheels and American Girl helped push its fourth-quarter net income up 14 percent. —AP

Banks set to double borrowing from ECB PARIS: European banks plan to borrow at least twice as much money from the European Central Bank this month as they did in December, the Financial Times reported yesterday, which would bring the sum to around one trillion euros ($1.32 trillion).

“Several of the euro-zone’s biggest banks told the Financial Times that they could double or triple their request for funds” when the ECB makes its second round of exceptional three-year loans on February 29, the report said.

“We should have done more (the) first time,” when more than 500 banks snapped up a record 489 billion euros ($644 billion) on December 21, the daily quoted the head of a euro-zone bank as saying last week at the World Economic Forum. The ECB has massively boosted the amount of central bank funds it lends to euro-zone banks at the ultra-low rate of 1.0 percent to prevent a crucial interbank lending market from seizing up.

Banks have once again begun to curb lending to each other amid concern that borrowers might not be able to pay back

the loans, forcing the ECB to assume the role of lender of last resort.

Much of the money has nonetheless be parked back in ECB coffers in the form of poorly-remunerated overnight deposits because that is also the safest place for commercial banks to stash excess cash.

Analyst say some of the funds have nonetheless been used to purchase euro-zone government bonds, easing pressure on heavily-indebted members, though bond yields climbed Monday for many southern countries considered most at risk of default. “Talk about an one-trillion-euro avalanche of money (after the 489 billion euro injection in late December) could further defuse concerns about banks and about Italian and Spanish refinancing needs,” Berenberg Bank chief economist Holger Schmieding said. “With luck, the mere expectation that there will be so much liquidity around could strengthen private sector bidding at upcoming auctions for these two sovereigns,” he added. —AFP

BERLIN: The unemployment rate in Germany, Europe’s largest economy, edged back over 7 percent in January as the winter weather began to weigh more heavily on industries such as construction, the Federal Labor Agency reported yesterday.

The unemployment rate jumped 0.7 percentage points to 7.3 percent from 6.6 percent in December, the agency said.

The number of people registered as unemployed rose 302,000 to just above 3.08 million.

Agency head Frank-Juergen Weise said, however, that the jump was not a cause for broader concern over the state of the German economy, Europe’s biggest.

“The rise of unemployment came from purely seasonal factors,” he said in a statement. When adjusted for seasonal factors, the unemployment rate actually dropped to 6.7 percent from 6.8 percent in December - a greater decrease than economists had been expecting. “Joblessness continues to decline on an underlying basis and there is no near-term end to this trend in sight,” said IHS Global analyst Timo Klein in a research note. “Some lagged negative effects of the economic slowdown observed during second-half 2011 are likely to be seen in the unemployment numbers during the coming months, but the rebound of leading indicators in evidence during December/January suggests that the general improvement in labor market conditions will receive fresh momentum in the second half of 2012.” Germany’s job market is in fairly good shape overall after two years of strong economic growth. Its strength has helped keep a lid on unemployment, in contrast to rising levels of joblessness elsewhere in economically weaker countries in the 17-nation euro-zone.

In a report yesterday, the EU’s statistics office said the overall unemployment rate in the euro-zone for 2011 was 10.4 percent. The highest unemployment rate was reported in Spain, with 22.9 percent, and Greece with 19.2 percent.

Austria’s 4.1 percent was the lowest rate.

After a strong export-driven performance over the last two years, Germany is expected to see much weaker economic growth in 2012 because of the problems elsewhere in the euro-zone. The government two weeks ago cut the country’s 2012 growth forecast from 1 percent to 0.7 percent - its second reduction in three months. As recently as October, the prediction was 1.8 percent.

Germany’s economy, the world’s fourth-largest, is thought to have contracted by up to 0.3 percent in last year’s fourth quarter compared with the previous three-month period, though final numbers are not yet in. Over 2011 as a whole, Germany grew by 3 percent - following a growth spurt of 3.7 percent in 2010 after a deep recession the previous year.

Yesterday’s figures showed there is continued disparity between the former East Germany and West Germany, with an unadjusted unemployment rate of 6.2 percent in the west, and 11.9 percent in the east.

The southern states of Baden-Wuerttemberg and Bavaria had the lowest rates at 4.1 and 4.2 percent respectively, while the highest was in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania at 14 percent, followed by Berlin at 13.2 percent. —AP

Borrowing spree pushes Canada to edge of cliff TORONTO: The two giant jars on Randolph Taylor’s windowsill are filled with shards of credit cards, chopped up by the clients whose staggering indebtedness drove them to the front line of Canada’s household debt crisis.

“I used to cut them up myself, but then I saw that having them do it themselves was a huge symbolic act,” Taylor said, pulling out a pair of scissors from his desk drawer in the Toronto headquarters of debt counselling agency Credit Canada.

“I tell them this card is the reason they are here. This card is the reason they haven’t been able to sleep.” The growth of household debt in Canada to levels

approaching those seen in the United States before the 2008-2009 crash seems to be keeping a lot of people awake from central bankers to economists, lenders, real estate agents and the indebted consumers.

Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney has warned that the ratio of debt to income will rise from the already alarming 153 percent record reached last year, and many think it will approach the landmark 160 percent hit by the United States before the US tipped into crisis more than three years ago. While Canada has spent the last few years boasting of its escape from the global credit crisis and its quick recovery from recession,

both Carney and Finance Minister Jim Flaherty are sounding the alarm on household debt, warning it has become the biggest home-grown risk to the financial system.

“Obviously the biggest concern is taking extreme levels of debt for those who are most vulnerable,” Carney said in mid-January, pointing to a “potentially overvalued” housing market that has roared higher for years, barely pausing when the US market collapsed. Carney, like central bankers the world over, has dropped official interest rates to historic lows to bolster growth, and suggested borrowing costs will remain low. The fact that his own policy made borrow-

ing so attractive has not lessened his warning that sharp pain may come when rates do rise.

The constant cry about household debt from Carney and Flaherty has sparked a debate about just how bad the problem is, with most concluding that it is quite worrisome and will end badly but not as badly as in the United States. “I am concerned about household debt. I do think ultimately this is going to end in tears, because inevitably rates are going to rise. And when they do rise, I think it is going to be a real shock to people,” said Craig Alexander, chief economist at Toronto-Dominion Bank, Canada’s second-largest lender. —Reuters

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

business

KSE stocks under pressure GLOBAL DAILY MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: Kuwait Stock Exchange closed the last session of the month on a mixed note. A retreat in select banking stocks sent blue-chips lower, while small caps were buoyed by gains in the non Kuwaiti sector. Investors focusing on the upcoming Kuwaiti parliament elections.

Global General Index (GGI) ended the day down by 0.07 percent, at 179.20 point. Market capitalization was down for the day, reaching KD29.32bn. On the other hand, KSE Price Index closed at 5,869.1 point, shedding 3.70 points (0.06 percent) from its previous close.

Market breadth On the broader market for equities, breadth was almost neutral, with decliners outnumbering advancers by a 36 to 34 margin.

However, yesterday’s performance was accompanied by mixed trading activity. Volume traded decreased by 21.08 percent, at 304.33mn shares, whilst the value of those shares traded on the exchange increased by 8.61 percent, at KD33.60mn. Al-Madina for Finance & Investment Company continued to trade intensely, with investors exchanging 41.32mn of its share during the day. However, the scrip closed unchanged. But it was a 1.92 percent increase in the equity price of Kuwait Investment Company that drove the Global Investment Index up by 0.02 percent.

In terms of top gainers, Munshaat Real Estate Projects Company was the top gainer for the day, adding 8.16 percent to its share value and closing at KD0.0265. On the other hand, share price of Alargan International Real Estate Company retreated by 7.81 percent and closed at KD0.118, making it the biggest decliners in the market for the day in a row.

Sector-wise On a sector-by-sector basis, four out of the eight sectors managed to eke out gains. Non Kuwaiti sector led the pack of advancers, clocking 0.84 percent in sector gains. Umm Al-Qaiuain Cement Industries Company reported an 2.00 percent climb, being the one of the most actively traded, with an impressive 3.16mn shares changing hands.

Industrial stocks too were notable movers, adding 0.66 percent. The sector’s performance was bolstered by a 5.00 percent improvement in the equity price of ACICO industries Company.

Ikarus Petroleum Industries Company too added 3.66 percent, at KD0.170.

On the other hand, the Global Services Index led the pack of decliners, retreating by 0.26 percent.

National Mobile Telecommunications Company shed 0.99 percent.

Corporate news Commercial Bank of Kuwait made a clarification as regards the local press news about generating KD0.800mn profit in FY2011. The lender stated that it had submitted its financial statements for the fiscal year that ended on December 31, 2011 to the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK).

According to the bank, these statements will be audited and ratified by CBK, then necessary procedures will be taken with the Capital Market Authority (CMA) and KSE, as per applicable regulations. Al-Tijari confirmed that its financial statements have not been endorsed yet by CBK, denying that any of its officials made statements in this regard.

Hayat Communications Company (HAYATCOM) announced yesterday that it signed an agreement with Huawei Technologies Company Ltd to undertake the mainte-

nance of telecommunication towers of Kuwait Telecom (VIVA). The contract, valued at $9.6mn, will last two years.

Gulf Petroleum Investment Company (PetroGulf ) indicated that the 100 percent owned Pyramid Drilling Company failed to reach an agreement with the strategic partner to acquire 51 percent of the land drilling rig No 5. They indicated that this failed deal would have no impact on the KSE-listed company.

The Central Bank of Kuwait approved Burgan Bank’s request to extend the buy back of a maximum of 10 percent of its outstanding shares, for another sixmonth period starting February 5, 2012.

The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $111.11pb on Monday compared with $111.31pb the previous Friday, according to OPEC secretariat calculations.

Oil above $111 on supply concerns, Greek hopes LONDON: Oil prices rose $1 per barrel yesterday on supply worries and on hopes that a Greek debt deal and European budget agreement would help support stronger global economic growth and higher demand for fuel.

Investors are worried about oil supplies from OPEC’s second-largest producer, Iran, as the United States considers more sanctions, on top of a European embargo on Iranian oil, to step up pressure on Tehran to halt its nuclear program.

South Sudan’s decision to stop production in a transit fee row with former civil war foe Sudan added to the supply worries. ICE Brent crude for March rose $1 to a high of $111.75 before easing to trade around $111.55 by 0950 GMT, on course to rise almost 4 percent in January.

US March crude jumped $1.21 to a high of $99.99 before slipping back to around $99.70. “Prices are moving upwards with general sentiment as stock markets strengthen and as the dollar eases,” said Cartsen Fritsch, oil analyst at Commerzbank in Frankfurt.

“Supply worries are preventing a price drop, despite the fact that markets are oversupplied. As long as these supply risks remain in play, prices are unlikely to drop much below where they are now, and Brent should not stray too far from $110,” Fritsch added.

The oil market gained support from across-the-board rises in Asian and European stock markets after Greek Prime Minister Lucas Papademos raised hopes that a deal would be reached this week to avoid a potentially chaotic debt default. Luxembourg’s Finance Minister Luc Frieden suggested Greece and its private creditors

were close to a debt restructuring deal.

The dollar fell 0.3 percent against a basket of major currencies, remaining under pressure after the US Federal Reserve said last week it was likely to keep interest rates near zero at least until late 2014.

Dollar-denominated oil becomes cheaper to holders of other currencies when the greenback weakens.

The EU’s embargo on Iranian oil exports will add upward pressure to oil prices, OPEC’s secretary general told Reuters on Monday, even though there is no shortage of oil on the market. Lawmakers on the US Senate Banking Committee plan to vote on a new round of sanctions targeting Iran’s energy sector. The package comes on the heels of new banking sanctions that the Obama administration is only beginning to implement as well as tough new embargos by European nations. “Iran will make sure we see more upside than downside,” said Jeremy Friesen, a commodity strategist at Societe Generale.

In Africa, South Sudan kept oil production shut even as Sudan released four tankers loaded with South Sudanese oil to try to defuse a row over export transit fees. The eurozone debt crisis has threatened to slow growth in the United States and China, the world’s top two oil consumers. Europe moved a step closer to a fiscal union on Monday although differences over the limits of austerity and Greece’s unfinished debt restructuring talks hampered efforts to convey a more optimistic message that Europe is getting on top of its debt crisis. — Reuters

Dinar stable against dollar KUWAIT: Exchange rate of the US dollar against the Kuwaiti dinar stayed unchanged at KD 0.277 as well as the euro to KD 0.365 compared to Monday’s rates, said the daily bulletin of the Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) yesterday.

The Sterling pound increased to KD

0.436. The Japanese yen was unchanged at KD 0.003, while the Swiss franc stood to KD 0.303.

The settling of US dollar was due to high demand of low-yielding currencies in midst of the severe fluctuations in global markets. —KUNA

25

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

business

China rare earths safe from WTO ruling BEIJING: China lost an appeal at the World Trade Organization yesterday after complaints about its restrictions on raw material exports, but will be able to maintain its supply stranglehold on rare earths, crucial ingredients in many high-tech products.

A W TO panel on Monday said Beijing violated global trading rules by restricting exports of raw materials like bauxite, coke, magnesium, manganese and zinc, which inflated prices and gave domestic Chinese firms an unfair competitive advantage.

Many countries later accused China of choking off global supplies of rare earth metals, causing prices to rocket.

Although rare earth metals were not part of Monday’s ruling, a number of US lawmakers urged the United States to use the decision to launch a new case to force Beijing to lift its rare earth export restrictions. “The decision of the appellate body is a huge victory

for the United States,” said Michael Silver, chief executive of American Elements, a US-based rare earth processor. “It confirms the existence of the two-tiered price structure that has caused so much concern.”

EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht said the decision would force China to drop export restrictions for the materials mentioned in the case and for rare earths. But while China might be forced to tweak some of its export policies, analysts said Beijing’s strategy to restrict rare earth supplies and control prices would likely remain unchanged. “It is still too early to say what the impact will be but I can’t see it having a big impact on prices-the main issue will still be supply and demand,” said Vivian Pang, an analyst with the Asian Metal consultancy in Beijing.

China controls 95 percent of global rare earth supplies-a group of 17 ele-

ments used in new industries like renewables and hybrid cars-and its dominance means that it is in a strong position to disregard WTO rulings if it so wishes. The United States, European Union and Mexico had all launched WTO legal cases in 2009, challenging China’s right to restrict raw material exports.

“The question is whether China will actually stop or at least reduce export taxes,” said Silver. “I expect they will, so they remain WTO members in good standing.” China’s Ministry of Commerce said on Monday that it “deeply regrets” the ruling but would comply. Tu Xinquan, associate director of the China Institute of WTO Studies, said Beijing was likely to have to adjust its policies in order to comply-but its overall strategy need not change.

“There are other ways it can meet its objectives,” he said. WTO provisions allow a country to limit trade on health

and environmental grounds, but it said on Monday that China had so far been “unable to demonstrate” that its restrictions helped conserve resources, cut pollution or improve public health.

Beijing has said that unregulated rare earth exploitation had caused untold damage in big producing regions like Inner Mongolia. It has also said it should not have to bear so much of the global output burden, especially as domestic demand grows.

China deployed similar arguments in 2004 when imposing quotas on coking coal exports. Despite the threat of WTO action, exports have dwindled from 10 million tons a decade ago to 3.6 million tons last year, and it is now a huge net importer. In the last few years, Beijing has banned dozens of unlicensed rare earth miners and raised entry thresholds. It has also imposed strict export limits and cracked down on smuggling.

It issued export quotas amounting to 30,184 tons in 2011, and said the figure for 2012 would remain unchanged in order to “guarantee international demand”. Exporters used just 56 percent of their allocations last year.

China has rejected claims that local firms have gained an unfair advantage, saying nationwide output caps-which are compliant with WTO rules-have also raised domestic prices and forced local users to scale back operations.

The question for the W TO is whether or not Chinese firms gain an unfair advantage, but there is nothing it can do to stop domestic rare earth producers from selling to domestic consumers at a cheaper price, said Tu of the Institute of WTO Studies. “I don’t know if domestic firms get cheaper supplies but if it is just enterprises setting prices, rather than the government, there is nothing anyone can say about it.” — Reuters

Huge fall in UK consumer credit, money supply BOE may inject more cash into economy

SHANGHAI: A man transports clothing for recycling on a motorized tricycle on a street in Shanghai yesterday. China could easily boost domestic consumption to stimulate its economy if its slowdown is too sharp, the IMF said. — AFP

China has room for stimulus: IMF Japan urged to triple consumption tax WASHINGTON: China could easily boost domestic consumption to stimulate its economy if its slowdown is too sharp, the International Monetary Fund said yesterday. IMF representative for Asia Anoop Singh said Europe’s plunge into recessionary conditions could pose a challenge for Beijing keeps its growth steady.

“We don’t see a hard landing as a likely event in China,” he said.

But, he added, “There are clear risks, in particular an escalation of European events.” “There is room for fiscal stimulus if downside risks materialize.” Generally in Asia, Singh said, governments still have the fiscal cushions to be able to intervene to help their economies without large fiscal risks. “The pace of consolidation could certainly be slowed in many economies which have relatively low levels of public debt, such as China of course.” Beijing, he added, already has clear, established tools to counter tooslow growth by boosting domestic consumption-as opposed to past reliance on investment to drive growth.

“I think that it’s the major stimulus that they could bring forward if the external events warranted it.”

Despite a still-quick pace of growth, China’s economy has shown some weaknesses in recent months. On January 20 a key index of manufacturing activity, HSBC’s preliminary purchasing managers’ index, contracted for the third

straight month. The IMF reduced its forecast for Chinese economic growth last week to 8.2 percent in 2012, down from the 9.0 percent it forecast just three months earlier.

The International Monetary Fund said that Japan ought to triple its consumption tax to help bring down some of its huge debt. Japan’s current tax rate on consumption is only five percent, one of the lowest rates in the world, said Anoop Singh, the IMF chief for Asia.

“It has been our sense... that raising the consumption tax gradually, not immediately, beyond 2015 to say 15 percent, would be more in line with the tax rate in other countries,” he said.

Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda has already proposed doubling the tax to 10 percent, but has run into stiff public and political opposition to the move. Singh said the IMF welcomed his plan, adding that the government needs to take action to cut its debt level, which at about 200 percent of GDP is the highest among developed economies.

“In some way (increasing) the consumption tax is the most appealing measure to take,” Singh said.

“It is more growth-friendly and less distortive than other options.” “ That along with the other reforms in social security and other spending, as a package, would then bring the debt ratio down,” Singh added. — AFP

Taiwan trims 2012 GDP forecast after Q4 drop TAIPEI: Taiwan trimmed its forecast for economic growth this year for a third time amid a gloomy outlook for exports, after a sharp slowdown in investment by tech companies helped push the island into a mild recession in the fourth quarter.

In a sign that this year will be a tough one for Asia’s exporters, the government put 2012 growth at 3.91 percent, less than the 4.19 percent it forecast late last year and the third cut since an initial forecast of 4.51 percent made in mid2011. The economy shrank 0.25 percent in the fourth quarter on a seasonallyadjusted quarterly basis, after contracting 0.21 percent in the June-September period. Most economists define a recession as two consecutive quarters of shrinkage.

Taiwan is one of the most open of Asia’s exporters, with an exports-to-GDP ratio of 74 percent, making it extra-vulnerable to declines in external demand.

With Europe mired in a crisis of debt, austerity and rising unemployment, the US recovery uncertain and China’s red-hot growth slowing down, demand for Taiwan’s exports is slowing sharply, and a rebound may take some time.

“I don’t think there will be a substantial recovery in the current quarter,” said Ma Tieying, economist at DBS in

Singapore. “For us to see a substantial recovery, it would be only in the second quarter. One reason is that the global uncertainty is still there. We expect firstquarter GDP growth to decline further from the previous quarter.”

The Taiwan’s government trimmed 2012 forecast remains more upbeat than the 3.2 percent median in a Reuters poll of 24 economists this month. Forecasts in that polled ranged from as low as 0.9 percent to as high as 4.1 percent.

“The government remains optimistic even after revising down the 2012 forecast,” said Cheng Cheng-mount, economist at Citi in Taipei.

“It may be more bullish in the recovery in H2 because of stimulus policies it can make use of, such as attracting more investment from China by opening up the markets more.”

The government estimated real GDP grew 4.03 percent in 2011, less than half the 10.72 percent growth rate seen in 2010. The 0.25 percent contraction in the last quarter of 2011, compared to the previous three months, reflected a bleak period for many of the hi-tech exporters that drive Taiwan’s growth.

Companies such as smartphone giant HTC reported poor sales at the end of last year as the global slowdown sapped demand. — Reuters

LONDON: Credit card and other unsecured lending to British consumers posted its sharpest drop in nearly two decades in December, supporting expectations that the Bank of England will soon inject more cash into the economy to prevent a deep recession. A steep decline in money supply also added to views that 75 billion pounds in quantitative easing, or asset purchasing, launched in October are not enough to boost the economy, which may have already entered a mild recession at the end of last year. Consumer credit fell by 400 million pounds last month - the biggest monthly drop since records began in 1993, the bank said on Tuesday, confounding forecasts for a 400 million pound rise.

Weak consumer spending has been a major drag on Britain’s economy, with consumers cutting back on purchases as the rise in living costs has outpaced meager wage increases and fears of job losses weigh on confidence. Economists said the numbers confirmed their expectations that the Bank of England was set to inject more stimulus into the economy. Most reckon the bank will announce a 50 billion pound expansion to its quantitative easing program next week.

“The fall in consumer credit reflects individuals’ reluctance to take on more debt in a tough economic environment,” said Nida Ali,

economic adviser to the Ernst & Young ITEM Club. “Today’s figures support our view that the Bank of England is likely to authorize further asset purchases next month.”

Some economists said it was reassuring that consumers were strengthening their finances by paying down debt at a reasonable rate, given the huge amount of debt Britons’ racked up in the run-up to the financial crisis.

“There’s not an aggressive repayment of debt, the flipside of which is a deep consumer recession. It’s happening at a more manageable pace,” said RBS economist Ross Walker.

“The sooner the household sector has debt levels at more manageable levels - and we’re still some years away from that - the sooner you’ll have a platform for a more sustainable recovery,” he added.

The Bank of England and the government have pinned their hopes for a pick-up in growth later this year on falling inflation, which should provide cash-strapped consumers with some room to spend more.

British consumer morale climbed to its highest in more than half a year in January, researchers GfK NOP said yesterday, but they added the improvement could just reflect a temporary spillover from “the Christmas feelgood factor”.

The economy shrank in the final quarter of 2011 as manufacturers and construction com-

panies scaled back production, and many economists expect another decline in the first quarter of 2012, which would amount to a mild technical recession.

Carpetright, Britain’s biggest floor coverings retailer, issued its sixth profit warning in a year yesterday and said it expected dire trading conditions to continue as it cuts prices to lure cash-strapped shoppers. The BoE data also showed that the housing market was unlikely to provide a major boost for the economy anytime soon. Mortgage approvals rose to 52,939, the highest number since December 2009 but still below forecast and far off the pre-crisis monthly average of around 90,000. Economists said the fall in broad money supply provided another sign that more quantitative easing may be necessary to get the economy back on track.

So-called M4 excluding intermediate other financial corporations slumped by 0.7 percent on the month - the steepest decline since this data series began in July 2009.

An even broader gauge also had a record fall. Brian Hilliard, economist at Societe Generale, noted that the decline was driven by a sharp fall in lending to companies, rather than to households. “It appears that companies are favoring bond issuance over bank loans for the small amounts of finance they are raising,” he said. — Reuters

ThyssenKrupp to sell steel business to Outokumpu

TOKYO: Shoppers ride on escalators at an electronics retailer in Tokyo. Japan’s industrial production rebounded 4 percent in December from November and household spending increased, suggesting the still-weak economy is gaining some steam after last year’s tsunami disaster and flooding in Thailand that disrupted manufacturers’ supply chains. — AP

Malaysia CB holds interest rates firm KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s central bank left its key interest rate unchanged yesterday, citing a need to remain cautious amid lingering concern over a “challenging” global economic situation.

Bank Negara said its monetary policy committee decided to hold the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) at 3.0 percent, citing a “deteriorating” world economic and financial situation led by concern over the European sovereign debt crisis.

“In Asia, while growth continues to be supported by sustained domestic demand, the growth momentum has moderated amid the weaker external environment,” the bank said in a statement.

However, it said it expected to announce continued economic expansion in the fourth quarter of 2011 when it releases growth figures on February 15. It said growth was “driven

by sustained domestic consumption and investment activities” that helped to counter the external difficulties.

“Overall growth prospects, however, would be affected by the slowdown in external demand, resulting in slower growth in exports and industrial production,” it warned. The economy grew 5.8 percent in the third quarter.

Malaysia’s economy depends heavily on exports of key commodities such as palm oil, rubber, and energy products as well as electronics and other manufactured goods. The bank expects inflation-which has hovered just above 3 percent in recent monthsto be manageable in 2012 due to slowing global economic activity.

The monetary policy committee, which meets on rates every two months, has held borrowing costs firm since May, when it hiked the rate for the first time in 10 months to rein in inflation. — AFP

FRANKFURT: German industrial giant ThyssenKrupp said yesterday it has agreed to sell its stainless steel unit Inoxum to Finnish group Outokumpu in a deal which valued the business at 2.7 billion euros ($3.6 billion).

Under the terms of the agreement, Inoxum will be merged with Outokumpu. In return, the German giant would receive a “significant cash payment” to cover Inoxum’s debts, plus a minority stake of 29.9 percent in the combined group, ThyssenKrupp said in a statement.

“Agreement in principle has been reached on the combination of Outukumpu and Inoxum,” the statement said. “The deal values Inoxum at around 2.7 billion euros,” ThyssenKrupp added.

ThyssenKrupp would receive a 29.9-percent stake in the combined group and Outukumpu would also make a “significant cash payment to repay Inoxum’s financial debt to ThyssenKrupp, as well as other thirdparty and pension liabilities.”

The management board had already agreed to the transaction in principle “and now the negotiating parties have also reached an agreement with employee representatives,” in particular with regard to job guarantees and the continuation of operations at the unit’s different sites, the statement said.

Under the deal, all of Inoxum’s German production sites will be maintained until the end of 2015. A melting plant at Krefeld, western Germany, is to be gradually shut down by the end of 2013, while another at nearby Bochum will remain in operation until the end of 2016.

There would be no compulsory redundancies until the end of 2015, ThyssenKrupp said. The deal must now be approved by the German group’s supervisory board at an extraordinary meeting later yesterday and the sale must also be given the green light by the regulatory authorities, ThyssenKrupp added. — AFP

KREFELD: The ThyssenKrupp stainless steel factory in Krefeld, Germany, is pictured yesterday. German steelmaker ThyssenKrupp AG said it is selling its stainless steel unit Inoxum to Finland’s Outokumpu Oyj in a euro2.7 billion ($3.54 billion) deal. —AP

26

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

BUSINESS

College students get 50% discounts with Gulf Bank Students enjoy new Spring Break promotion

Malabar Gold winner KUWAIT: Amir Hussain Khan won 50 gms gold coin through scratch and win coupon as part of the “Malabar Gold Festival.” The Festival will end on Feb 5, 2012. Picture shows gift being given by showroom sales manager Ranju.

KUWAIT: Gulf Bank’s red customers can now get a 50% discount at selected shops through a new exclusive promotion which is being run by the Bank as part of its commitment to providing customers with the best offers and shopping opportunities.

Gulf Bank’s spring break promotion, which is valid until February 5, 2012, gives red customers an opportunity to enjoy instant 50% discounts at Kuwait National Cinema Company (KNCC), Paintball, and a free dessert at Upper Crust Pizzeria whenever they use their red cards to pay the bill.

Najla Al-Essa, Executive Manager, Consumer Banking Group at Gulf Bank said: “We are offering this exclusive promotion for all our red

card holders to be able to enjoy during their spring break. All students with a red account can take full advantage of this exciting promotion and enjoy a fun discounted break.”

Customers wishing to qualify for this promotion must have Gulf Bank’s red account, which is specifically designed for university and college students in Kuwait. To find out more about the red account, customers can visit one of Gulf Bank’s 55 branches or contact its Customer Contact Center on 1805805 for assistance and guidance. They can also log on to www.e-gulfbank.com, Gulf Bank’s bilingual website, to find all the information they need regarding the red(tm) program and its benefits.

Iran oil ban weighs on ship insurance market China tanker industry to benefit most LONDON: European Union sanctions on Iran’s oil trade look set to weigh on London’s marine insurance market by forcing tanker companies doing business with Iran to insure themselves outside Europe, industry executives said.

The sanctions regime, due to take effect in July, bans imports of Iranian oil into the EU and prohibits European insurers from indemnifying ships carrying Iranian oil anywhere in the world.

That will clear the way for rivals in Iran, Asia or Russia to pick up the slack, said Andrew Bardot, executive officer of the International Group of P&I Clubs, an association of customer-owned ship insurers which covers 95 percent of the world’s tankers against pollution and personal injury claims.

“It doesn’t stop shipowners who wish to engage in that trade from getting insurance elsewhere,” Bardot said. “At the commercial level, there will be a loss of premium from those fleets, and a lot of migration to other markets.” The Iranian sanctions, agreed by EU governments last week, are aimed at putting pressure on Tehran’s disputed nuclear program by shutting off the country’s main source of foreign income. “Any situation like this could result in business moving to other areas,” said Neil Roberts, a senior executive at the

Lloyd’s Market Association, which represents underwriters operating in the Lloyd’s of London insurance market.

London is the leading global centre for marine insurance, accounting for 17 percent of the $8.5 billion market for hull and machinery cover, which protects vessels against physical damage, according to the International Union of Marine Insurers (IUMI).

It also controls an 8 percent share of the $13 billion market for cargo insurance, in third place behind Germany with 9 percent and Japan with 14.6 percent.

Since the United States is planning similar sanctions, insurance business displaced from London and other European markets is likely to end up on the books of insurers in Asia, Latin America or Russia, executives said.

The upheaval comes as the marine insurance industry is preparing to absorb what could be its biggest ever claims bill-a loss of up to $1 billion from the shipwreck of the Costa Concordia cruise liner earlier this month.

The International Group of P&I Clubs has already suspended business that could breach the ban, Bardot said. The sanctions will also force European commercial insurers providing hull and machinery cover to stop insuring tankers carrying

Iranian oil, IUMI said.

“IUMI recognizes the fact that for most insurers it will continue to be impossible to insure tankers carrying Iranian oil,” the body said in a statement.

One potential beneficiary is China, an emerging force in marine insurance which accounts for 10 percent of hull and machinery cover and 9 percent of the cargo market, according to IUMI figures.

“China and India may quite easily take up the slack as they do not like having rules imposed upon them by western powers,” a senior shipping industry source said. Iran’s biggest tanker operator NITC last year secured ship insurance cover at home and in Asia after European providers pulled out due to earlier sanctions.

NITC, which was privatized in 2000 and which is owned by three Iranian pension funds, has found itself in the firing line with the US senate discussing provisions that could blacklist the group.

Shipowners’ ability to buy insurance outside established European markets may be constrained by their banks, whose loans are often secured against their customers’ fleets, and who have the power to veto insurers they deem financially weak or opaque.

“You can’t suddenly say we’re going to use insurer XYZ in

GIC’s Gulf bond Fund makes impressive gains KUWAIT: Gulf Investment Corporation (GIC), Gulf Bond Fund continues its impressive performance with a 5.43% return for 2011 despite global economic challenges and regional uncertainty, adding a solid seventh year to its track record.

Being the first fund dedicated to GCC bonds and Sukuks, established in March 2005, and one of the largest in the region,

Talal Zaid Al-Tawari

Khalifa Al-Rashid with a market value exceeding $ 152 million, GIC Gulf Bond Fund managed to maintain its solid performance despite recent global economic instability and regional turmoil.

Head of GCC Equities Division, Talal Zaid Al-Tawari said: “ The fund was able to beat benchmark and achieve positive performance for 4 consecutive quarters with a full year return of 5.43%, an annualized total return of 3.83% since inception, thanks to

the high quality of its holdings where underlying bonds are rated A- and above along with a broad regional and sector diversification attracting the attention of many investors looking for consistently competitive performance in the GCC region.”

Al-Tawari explain that a period of historically high oil prices made GCC economies among the best global performers with impressive GDP growth numbers that are expected to continue in the next few years. Vice President - GCC Bonds and Fund Manager, Khalifa Al-Rashid said: “The recent rating downgrade of US Treasury bonds, which are now only one notch better rated than some GCC countries, combined with a still generous spread have significantly increased international appetite for regional fixed income investments.”

He added: as global economy enters another year of uncertainty and risk aversion GCC credits emerge as an ideal asset class that provides one of the best expected risk adjusted returns.

Equipped with an industry expertise built up over the last 29 years and a unique Pan-GCC ownership structure in addition to one of the largest regional buyside research teams, GIC is ideally positioned to take advantage of booming regional fixed income markets.

GIC Gulf Bond Fund long track record in regional credit markets and its focus on both portfolio and risk management represents an excellent investment opportunity in a market still dominated by low yields and high price volatility. Established in 1983, GIC is a regional financial institution owned entirely and equally by the six GCC states. GIC strives to provide a comprehensive range of financial services that support the development of private enterprise and economic growth in the Gulf region. GIC managed to achieve a number of major projects throughout GCC Countries all with diversified activities covering different sectors via, financial, petrochemical, steel, power, communications and others. GIC successfully maintained its distinguished presence as a financially powerful establishment with rewarding returns and enhanced capital base.

Timbuktu, and he’s C-rated, because the banks may say you can’t do that,” said a senior Londonbased marine underwriter, who said the impact of the ban on his business would be “minor.”

“Insurers obviously won’t get a peachy piece of the trade in Iran, but I’m not sure we’re getting much anyway.”

The number of Asian insurers lining up to fill the gap left by their European counterparts could also be limited, as only those with no dependence on European reinsurance would be able to compete for the business.

Much of Iran’s imported needs including food and consumer goods are transported by sea via container ships. Oil tankers are used to ferry the country’s crude oil exports.

“I sense that many international shipping companies are challenged beyond what they find can be justified when looking at the potential earnings of trading with Iran,” Jakob Larsen, maritime security officer with BIMCO, the world’s largest private shipowners’ association.

“Having said that, I think there are still some who are able to carry on their business in a way that does not breach sanctions and yet ensures a decent return on investment.” —Reuters

Swiss banks hand over encrypted data in US tax row ZURICH: Switzerland has handed US authorities encrypted data on bank employees who served American clients suspected of dodging taxes, and will only provide the key to decipher them once a tax row is settled, the finance ministry said yesterday.

Swiss banks have provided tens of thousands of pages of encrypted data on their US businesses, including names of client advisers, a finance ministry spokesman said.

The data transfer came after Swiss media reported the US authorities had set a Jan. 30 deadline for banks under investigation-including Credit Suisse, Julius Baer and Basler Kantonalbank-to deliver data on their US offshore business or face possible prosecution.

“We will only decode when we have found a solution with the United States on all the banks that are under discussion,” finance minister Eveline WidmerSchlumpf told Swiss television.

Switzerland is trying to get US investigations into 11 banks dropped in return for the payment of hefty fines and the transfer of names of US clients suspected of dodging taxes but is also trying to defend its tradition of strict bank secrecy.

The urgency of reaching a deal was shown last week when Wegelin, Switzerland’s oldest bank, broke itself up due to the pressure of the US investigation after three employees were indicted for selling tax evasion services to rich Americans. Widmer-Schlumpf, who discussed the dispute in Davos last week with US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, has said it is important to prevent other banks getting into the same situation as Wegelin and hopes to reach a deal in coming months.

Martin Naville, the head of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce, said the delivery of encrypted data was an attempt by the Swiss government to show willing in the talks.

“We are in a process of negotiations, not at war. In negotiations, you have to give something from time to time,” he told Swiss television. The finance ministry said it could only transfer non-encrypted bank data in individual cases when the US authorities had made a request under existing double taxation treaties and when the person accused had also broken Swiss law.

Swiss banking secrecy has been under global attack in recent years as cash-strapped governments seek to crack down on tax evaders. UBS paid $780 million to settle US tax charges in 2009 and also turned over the names of 4,500 clients. —Reuters

Najla Al-Essa

Home prices drop in most US cities WASHINGTON: US home prices fell for a third straight month in nearly all cities tracked by a major index. The declines show that most homeowners are not reaping the benefits from some signs of an improving housing market. Prices dropped in November from October in 19 of the 20 cities tracked, according to the Standard & Poor’s/CaseShiller home-price index released yesterday.

The biggest declines were in Atlanta, Chicago and Detroit. Phoenix was the only city to show an increase. The decline partly reflects the typical fall slowdown after the peak buying season. Still, prices declined in 18 of the 20 cities in November compared to the same month in 2010. Only Washington and Detroit posted year-over-year increases.

And prices have fallen 33 percent nationwide since the housing bust, to 2003 levels. The Case-Shiller index covers half of all US homes.

It measures prices compared with those in January 2000 and creates a three-month moving average. The November data are the latest available.

Home values remain depressed despite some hopeful signs at the end of last year.

Sales of previously occupied homes rose in the last three months. Homebuilders are more optimistic after seeing more people express interest in buying this year. And home construction picked up in the final quarter of last year, which helped housing contribute to broader economic growth.

Home prices tend to follow sales, which are still below healthy levels. And a large number of vacant homes are sitting idle on the market, which means prices will likely stay unchanged for several years, said Paul Dales, senior US economist at Capital Economics.

“The most likely scenario in the US is that in 2012 prices will bob around a bit, with one month’s gain being reversed the next

month,” Dales said. “But in general, over the next couple of years, house prices will do nothing more than remain broadly stable.”

Dales said prices might not rise consistently until 2015. Prices are especially low in Cleveland, Detroit, Las Vegas, Phoenix and Tampa, which reached their lowest points since the housing bust more than four years ago. Washington, New York, Los Angeles and San Diego have suffered the smallest declines.

Economists say home prices are likely begin rising first in hard-hit cities in Arizona, California, Florida and Nevada. Conditions are also improving for those in position to buy a home. Job growth is up, prices are down, mortgage rates are at record lows and rental prices have risen sharply since the housing bust. Still, many people can’t afford to buy or are unable to qualify for mortgage. Some people in position to buy are holding off, worried that prices could fall even further. A full housing recovery could take years, economists say.

Many economists say the US could be experiencing what similarly occurred in Britain in the 1990s, when it took four years for home prices to rise again after falling prices left homeowners with little financial equity in their homes.

Prices could also fall further once banks resume millions of foreclosures. They have been delayed because of a government investigation into mortgage lending practices that has dragged on for more than a year. Foreclosures and short sales - when a lender accepts less for a home than what is owed on a mortgage - are selling at an average discount of 20 percent. A deeper recession in Europe could also cause US banks to tighten their lending standards, causing home sales and prices to drop. —AP

France’s Dassault wins 126 jet Indian contract NEW DELHI: French firm Dassault has won a multi-billion dollar contract to provide 126 fighter jets to the Indian military, a government source in New Delhi said yesterday. Dassault will sell its Rafale multi-role jet to India after beating the Eurofighter consortium to secure the long-awaited contract, which is estimated to be worth $12 billion. “You can take it as confirmed that Dassault has got the deal. Since there were only two companies and it has come out as the lowest bidder,” the government source told AFP. The French government also confirmed Dassault’s victory. “We have won the contract,” French Minister of State for Foreign Trade Pierre Lellouche told France’s BFM radio, while adding that “a certain number of things remain to be finalized.”

Dassault Aviation shares soared more than 20 percent on the Paris Stock Exchange after the news broke. The huge contract to supply war planes to fast-developing India has been fiercely fought over for four years. India in April pulled a surprise by cutting out US bidders Boeing and Lockheed Martin-much to Washington’s disappointment-as well as dropping Sweden’s Saab AB and the Russian makers of the MiG 35 from the race.

Dassault’s rival, Eurofighter, which had pitted its Typhoon aircraft against the Rafale, is a consortium of Britain’s BAE Systems, Italy’s Finmeccanica and the European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company (EADS). James Hardy, Asia-Pacific Editor of Jane’s Defense Weekly, said the decision was “a big win for the Rafale” but warned that a final deal

was still far from certain.

“Rafale has been selected as preferred bidder but any student of Indian procurement knows that this means nothing until the contract is physically signed,” Hardy said.

He predicted that the recent sharp depreciation of the Indian currency and “standard contractual wrangling” could delay the deal for years.

The tendered contract was for the outright purchase of 18 combat aircraft by 2012 with another 108 to be built in India with options to acquire more.

Such a large order attracted strong lobbying during visits to India by US President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. India, the biggest importer of military hardware among emerging nations, issued the request for proposals in 2007 and trials of aircraft from the six companies competing for the deal began a year later.

The procurement of the fighter jets is a key part of India’s military upgrade program, aimed at securing its borders against rivals Pakistan and China. Dassault’s Rafale plane and the Eurofighter Typhoon were both in action over Libya last year during the international operation to enforce a no-fly zone and protect civilians from Muammar Gaddafi’s forces. Both plane makers were relying on the contract to secure their futures amid falling defense budgets in developed markets, with Dassault also keen to sign up the first foreign buyer for its Rafale plane. —AP

BSkyB reports rising H1 profits LONDON: British pay-TV giant BSkyB said yesterday that net profits climbed in the first half of its financial year, boosted by rising subscribers, and announced plans to create 1,300 jobs over the next two years.

BSkyB, which was at the centre of a failed takeover bid by its largest shareholder News Corp last year, added that it would launch Internet-based television services later this year as it seeks to attract more customers. Earnings after taxation advanced 8.4 percent to £441 million ($694 million, 527 million euros) in the six months to the end of December, compared with £407 million in the same period of the previous fiscal year. Revenues climbed six percent to £3.36 billion in the reporting period, the broadcaster added in a results statement.

BSkyB, which broadcasts live English

Premier League football and blockbuster movies, added that it now has nearly 10.5 million household subscribers, a proportion of whom pay monthly fees to access its Internet broadband and telephone services. “It has been a strong first half with progress on all fronts,” said chief executive Jeremy Darroch in the earnings release.

“While these are tough times for many consumers, our customers are staying loyal and more households continue to join us.

“From broadband to high definition, people are choosing Sky for a wider range of products than ever, underlining the transformation of our business over the last few years.”

BSkyB meanwhile revealed that it would create 1,300 jobs in Britain and Ireland as it brings more of its customer service and installation work in-house and opens a new service centre in Dublin. —AFP

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

TECHNOLOGY

US using ‘latest tools’ for cybersecurity: Napolitano WASHINGTON: US officials are deploying “the latest tools” to keep cyberspace safe for commerce and protect the US information infrastructure, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said Monday.

Napolitano, speak ing at the National Press Club, emphasized that homeland security and US economic security “go hand in hand.”

“Cyberspace is an increasingly busy

area for all of us,” said Napolitano in her annual speech on the state of US homeland security.

In today’s “high-tech security and commercial environments, we must also focus beyond just the physical movement of goods and people across our borders.”

Homeland Security officials aim to create “a secure environment for the flow of cyber commerce” and help

support “a secure marketplace for the exchange of goods and ideas,” she said.

“We are deploying the latest tools across the federal government to protect critical systems,” while also sharing security information with the private sector “to help them protect their own operations,” Napolitano said.

Homeland Security experts are

also working to protect “the systems and networks that support the financial services industry, the electric power industry, and the telecommunications industr y.” In 2011, the office’s Computer Emergenc y Readiness Team “responded to more than 100,000 incident reports, and released more than 5,000 actionable cybersecurity alerts to our federal, state, and private sector partners.” US

officials are also sharing information with foreign security officials “to combat electronic crimes such as identity and intellectual property theft, network intrusions, and a range of financial crimes.” According to Napolitano, the US Secret Service last year prevented $5.6 billion in potential losses through financial crime investigations and $1.5 billion through cyber crime investigations. —AFP

Congolese inventor puts African tablet on sale Tablet is equivalent to all found in the market

STAR CITY: Soyuz space capsule seen in the forest during a complex training on emergency landing at a marshy wooded site in winter, with members of an expedition to the International Space Station, Russian Cosmonauts Pavel Vinogradov, Alexander Misurkin, and US astronaut Christopher Cassidy at Star City, outside Moscow, Russia, yesterday. — AP

Tech companies team up to combat email scams NEW YORK: Google, Facebook and other big tech companies are jointly designing a system for combating email scams known as phishing.

Such scams try to trick people into giving away passwords and other personal information by sending emails that look as if they come from a legitimate bank, retailer or other business. When Bank of America customers see emails that appear to come from the bank, they might click on a link that takes them to a fake site mimicking the real Bank of America’s. There, they might enter personal details, which scam artists can capture and use for fraud.

To combat that, 15 major technology and financial companies have formed an organization to design a system for authenticating emails from legitimate senders and weeding out fakes. The new system is called DMARC - short for Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting and Conformance.

DMARC builds upon existing techniques used to combat spam. Those techniques are designed to verify that an email actually came from the sender in question. The problem is there are multiple approaches for doing that and no standard way of dealing with emails believed to be fake.

The new system addresses that by asking email senders and the companies that provide email services to share information about the email messages they send and receive. In addition to authenticating their legitimate emails using the existing systems, companies can receive alerts from email providers every time their domain name is used in a fake message. They can then ask the email

providers to move such messages to spam folder or block them outright.

According to Google, about 15 percent of non-spam messages in Gmail come from domains that are protected

by DMARC. This means Gmail users “don’t need to worry about spoofed messages from these senders,” Adam Dawes, a product manager at Google, said in a blog post.

“With DMARC, large email senders can ensure that the email they send is being recognized by mail providers like Gmail as legitimate, as well as set policies so that mail providers can reject messages that try to spoof the senders’ addresses,” Dawes wrote.

Work on DMARC started about 18 months ago. Beginning Monday, other companies can sign up with the organization, whether they send emails or provide email services. For email users, the group hopes DMARC will mean fewer fraudulent messages and scams reaching their inbox.

The group’s founders are email providers Microsoft Corp., Yahoo Inc., AOL Inc. and Google Inc.; financial service providers Bank of America Corp., Fidelity Investments and eBay Inc.’s PayPal; online ser vice companies Facebook, LinkedIn Corp. and American Greetings Corp. and security companies Agari, Cloudmark, eCert, Return Path and the Trusted Domain Project.

Google uses it already, both in its email sender and email provider capacities. The heft of the companies that have already signed on to the project certainly helps, and its founders are hoping it will be more broadly adopted to become an industry standard. —AP

Facebook, Washington state target online spam SEATTLE: Facebook is partnering with Washington state to combat a type of spam called “clickjacking” that is plaguing the social networking site, company and state officials announced last week.

Two separate lawsuits were filed in federal courts in California and Washington state against Delaware-based Adscend Media LLC, which officials say is behind the spamming.

“The way we think about it, security is an arms race,” Facebook’s general counsel, Ted Ullyot, said alongside Washington state Attorney General Rob McKenna at the social media company’s Seattle offices. “It’s important to stay ahead of spammers and scammers.”

In “clickjacking,” links on Facebook promising shocking or salacious videos have code embedded in them that spreads the link to the user’s page. That makes it seem like the user “liked” the link, with the aim of attracting more clicks from the user’s friends. The links eventually lead users to a survey or information from an advertiser.

Adscend Media is spreading spam through misleading and deceptive tactics and has encouraged others to do the same, McKenna’s office said. An email inquiry sent to Adscend was not immediately returned, and an attorney for the company had not yet been listed in federal court records.

Social networking sites are popular

targets for spammers because people are more likely to trust and share content that comes from people they know. This makes spam, scams and viruses easy to spread.

Still, Facebook says less than 4 percent of content shared on the site is spam. By comparison, about 74 percent of email is spam, according to security company Symantec Corp., though the bulk of it gets filtered out before reaching someone’s inbox. Facebook has more than 800 million users.

Named in Washington state’s lawsuit are Adscend co-owners Jeremy Bash, of West Virginia, and Fehzan Ali, of Texas.

The lawsuit says Adscend violated several state laws, as well as the federal CANSPAM act, which makes it unlawful to procure or initiate transmission of misleading commercial communication.

McKenna said Adscend has annual revenue of $20 million. Washington state is the only state partnering with Facebook. The company said it partnered with Washington state because of a history in the state of technology consumer protection.

The attorney general said Washington state has been a leader in technology consumer protection since his predecessor, now Gov. Chris Gregoire, began filing suits against malware and spyware users.

“As spammers adjust their tactics, we adjust ours,” McKenna said. — AP

BRAZZAVILLE: Africa has its first handheld tablet to rival the iPad and similar western inventions, which went on sale in the Republic of Congo on Monday, its inventor Verone Mankou said yesterday.

“We have set up a team and logistics to sell the tablet since Friday. Today, anyone can buy one,” if they are in the main cities of the capital Brazzaville and the oil port of Pointe-Noire, the 26year-old told AFP. The tablet is called the Way-C - “the light of the stars” in a dialect of nor thern Congo. It measures 19 x 17 x 1.2 centimetres (7.4 x 6.7 x O.5 inches) and weighs 380 grammes (13.4 ounces) and has integrated Wi-Fi circuitry and a 4.0 GB memory.

“In technological terms, this tablet is equivalent to all those to be found on the market,” said Mankou, referring to the US giant Apple’s iPad and its competitors. The Way-C was conceived in Congo, where it was first presented to the public in September 2011, but it is assembled in China, “for the simple reason that Congo has no factories and for price reasons,” Mankou added.

His tablet will sell for 150,000 CFA francs (229 euros / 299 dollars), which the developer, who is also an advisor on new informa-

BRAZZAVILLE: The inventor of the first handheld tablet to rival the iPad and similar western inventions, Verone Mankou, shows his tablet yesterday in the offices of his company, VMK, in Brazzaville. — AFP

tion technologies to the ministry of communication, considered “acceptable and relatively low, considering the technology used.”

For the moment, the Way-C will be sold exclusively in Airtel Congo stores in Brazzaville and Pointe-Noire, a private mobile

telephone company which is a subsidiary of the Indian group Bharti. Mankou’s firm, VMK, has cut a deal with Bharti. “With this company, we are also going to conclude a partnership to use 3G (mobile telephony), because the tablet only has an integrated wifi.”

The financing of the project, launched in 2006, cost more than 80 million CFA francs (almost 122,000 euros), essentially provided by VMK . The tablet is planned to be marketed in 10 west African countries, and in Belgium, France and India from February 15. — AFP

Samsung to showcase premium notebooks at Infoconnect Kuwait KUWAIT: Samsung Electronics Co.,Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, yesterday announced its par ticipation at the Infoconnect Exhibition in Kuwait. The event is the country’s leading IT and telecom trade show,which is being held from January 29 - February 4, 2012 at the Kuwait Fair Grounds.

Samsung’s participation comes as part of its continued efforts to strengthen and diversify its presence across the Kuwaiti market to serve its growing customer base.

The Samsung notebooks will be displayed at the Best Electronics stand at the exhibition.

“The Kuwaiti market has always represented a key area of growth for Samsung as consumers continue to seek notebooks that offer unrivalled mobility, state-of-the-art design and powerful performance”, said Denzil Dsouza, Business Head of Notebooks atSamsung Gulf Electronics. “At Infoconnect, Samsung will showcase its premium products in the notebook category that meet the demands of every consumer. As theregional market for mobile

computing devices continues to grow, Samsung remains committed to leading the industry through continuous development of notebook technology”.

From the world’s lightest to the most powerful, Samsung will showcase its expansive line-up of notebooks including the Series 7 CHRONOS; 300V and 300E Series and Series 9 that offer users world-class ultra-portability and rich mobile computing experiences.

Series 7 CHRONOS Samsung’s Series 7 CHRONOS is a fullfeatured premium notebook encased in a stunningly thin and compact aluminium chassis. It also features the latest Intel Core i7 Quad Core processor, the ‘ExpressCache’(tm)* technology, 6GB of DDR memory and Samsung’s proprietary ‘FastStart’ feature. These advanced features enable a faster start-up and increase the overall performance while the ‘Quick Boot’ feature ensures the notebook is ready to boot in just 19 seconds. The Series 7 CHRONOS also incorporates an intelligent

sensor based backlit keyboard and ‘MAX screen’ technologywith a slim bezeland a 15.6” SuperBright Anti-Reflective HD+LED display (1600x900).This enables users to experience up to an extra inch of immerse viewing without sacrificing mobility or portability.

300V Series Featuring vivid colors and a stylish slim bezel, the Samsung’s Series 300V notebooksoffer premium design and powerful performance. The stylish slim bezel screen on the Series 300V measures just 10.3mm on the sides and 14.5mm on the top - slimmer than an average finger. In addition, the range of notebooks offers extensive battery life of up to 7 hours and is equipped with Samsung’s unique Fast Start technology that ensures the notebook wakes up within a few seconds. The notebook also comes with Intel Wireless Display which enables users to connect their notebooks to TVs or monitors by connecting a WIDI adapter.

Furthermore, the 300V offers a choice of either gloss or anti-reflective displays. The gloss display is per fect for games and movies as it ensures that images are brilliantly clear and vivid, while the anti-reflective display provides better readability in outdoor conditions.

Series 9 Elegant from every angle, the Samsung Series 9 is the premium notebook for consumers who look for design, performance and usability.The Series 9 comes withthe latest Intel Core i7 processor and 6 GB of DDR3 memory.Crafted with durable duralumin with a weight of only 1.31kg (2.88lbs.), measuring only 16.3mm (0.64inches) in depth and a screen size of 13 inches, the Series 9 notebook is designed to naturally fit into a user’s hand. It also has one of the most beautiful notebook displays available in the markettoday as it features a SuperBright Plus display with 400nit brightness that is two times brighter than conventional displays. This premium notebook also includes advanced usability and performance-enhancing features. Utilizing ambient light sensors, the Auto Display Brightness controls measure light levels in the vicinity of the notebook and automatically adjusts the brightness of the display to ensure an

optimized user experience, all the while conserving battery life. Additionally, the Series 9 notebook offers efficient and secure storage whereby data is saved on a Solid State Drive (SSD)of up to 256 GB. It alsooffers internal memory if power is suddenly lost or the battery is removed. The notebook also comes with a 1.3M HD webcam that allows users to record clear video and images and play video clips in widescreen high definition. With unmatched quality, design and features, the Samsung Series 9 is representative of Samsung’s commitment to cutting-edge notebooks.

300E Series The Samsung 300E Series notebook offers long-lasting performance, reliability and value. Packed with advanced features such as an anti-glare screen and a scratchresistant chassis, the 300E notebook is made to last for life. And with a slim bezel and compact design, this notebook offers easy portability. In addition to its attractive appearance, the 300E offers excellent per-

formance. Its large touchpad makes it easy to work with and its anti-aging intelligent battery technology offers up to 7 hours of battery life while ensuring that the battery keeps 80% of its original capacity for up to 1,000 recharges. In addition, the 300E Series offers unrivalled per formance as it is equipped with NVIDIA Optimus 520M processor, that enables easy multi-tasking of various applications ranging from video viewing to 3D games and web surfing. The result is long lasting battery life without sacrificing great graphics performance.

With its participation at Infoconnect, Samsung hopes to generate significant value, by showcasing their state of the art technologies. This would directly help in consolidating and strengthening the company’s share in Kuwait for its full complement of IT products.Samsung continues to invest in the Kuwait market and stand by their commitment to shape its IT marketplace.Consumers are encouraged to visit the Best Electronics standwhere they will have the opportunity to experience and interact with the latest line of Samsung notebooks.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

H E A LT H & S C I E NC E

China detains seven over river pollution scandal SHANGHAI: China has detained seven company executives after suspected industrial waste discharges polluted a river with toxic cadmium, threatening drinking supplies for millions, state media said yesterday.

The discharges have contaminated a 100-kilometre (60-mile) stretch of the Longjiang River in the southern region of Guangxi, sparking panic buying of bottled water in nearby cities, the official China Daily reported.

Jinhe Mining Co. has been blamed for dumping cadmium-a carcinogen which can seriously damage the kidneys, bones and respiratory system-into the river, in a spill that was discovered on January 15.

But the government has decided to widen the crackdown to go after other polluters, inspecting more than a dozen factories on the river and stopping production at seven plants.

Feng Zhennian, a local environment official, told reporters that seven executives from companies deemed responsible for polluting the river had been taken into custody, the state-run Xinhua news agency said late Monday.

He said they were all chemical plants executives who worked in Guangxi but refused to name them, the report said.

The initial spill happened in Hechi city but was now flowing downstream, endangering drinking water for 1.5 mil-

lion people in Liujiang city. It was also approaching Liuzhou city, with a population of 3.7 million, reports said.

“It is a critical time right now, as downstream drinking water safety is in jeopardy,” Hechi mayor He Xinxing was quoted by Xinhua as saying.

Guangxi environmental officials could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Authorities have mobilised thousands of soldiers to dump chemical neutralisers into the river to dilute the cadmium, but levels of the chemical were still over 25 times higher than the official limit Monday in some parts.

A supermarket worker in Liuzhou,

who declined to be named, said his store had been selling 2,000 bottles of water a day as frightened residents stocked up despite government pledges that the city’s tap water was safe for now.

“Sales have been like this for a week.

In wintertime, normal daily sales of bottled water are 100 to 200 bottles,” he told AFP. In its latest update at midday yesterday, the Liuzhou city government said cadmium levels were two times higher than the government standard.

Environmentalist Ma Jun, director of Beijing-based Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, said pollution involving cadmium-widely used in batteries-is worrisome since it tends to per-

sist in the water supply.

“This water pollution can be very severe, since it was caused by a kind of heavy metal that cannot dissolve naturally and is highly toxic, which could make the pollution last for quite a long period,” he told AFP. Many waterways in China have become heavily contaminated with toxic waste from factories and farms, pollution blamed on three decades of rapid economic growth and lax enforcement of environmental protection laws.

Activists say officials often turn a blind eye to industrial pollution or even collude with companies to promote local economic development. —AFP

US electronic health records still need work ‘How will sensitive health data be kept confidential’

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani students and paramedics of Shifa International Hospital participate in a cancer awareness rally in Islamabad yesterday.

Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer accounting to 40,000 deaths per year. — AFP

UN atomic watchdog green lights Japan’s reactor tests TOKYO: The UN’s nuclear watchdog yesterday gave its seal of approval to Japan’s reactor safety checks, but said utilities should beef up plans for managing disasters in the wake of the Fukushima meltdowns. A delegation from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is in the country at the government’s invitation as officials look for ways to convince a deeply skeptical population that idled nuclear plants are safe to restart. With just a handful of Japan’s 54 reactors still operational, officials are nervously eyeing possible electricity shortfalls unless reactors are brought back online-something that can only be done if local communities consent.

The government’s Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) asked the IAEA to assess the stringency of the socalled stress tests to which all reactors are subjected before being given the green light to resume operations. “The conclusion of the team is that NISA’s instructions and review process for the comprehensive safety assessments are generally consistent with IAEA safety standards,” the delegation said in a statement. But the watchdog said further tests of the reactors should also look at how the utilities operating them would deal with a worst-case scenario.

“NISA should ensure that in the secondary assessment the provisions for mitigation of severe accidents should be addressed more comprehensively,” the report said. NISA should make sure companies “develop comprehensive accident management programs ... in the area of severe accident management,” it said.

The mission also urged Tokyo to engage with people living in the shadow of nuclear plants as it tries to convince

them the technology is safe. The stress tests were introduced as a way of determining how reactors would cope with the impact of large-scale natural disasters after meltdowns and explosions at Fukushima Daiichi caused by last March’s earthquake and tsunami.

Radiation was scattered over a large area and made its way into the oceans, air and food chain in the weeks and months after the disaster, reversing the mood among Japan’s once nuclearfriendly public. “In any of these processes, the more information can be exchanged with the people in the local vicinity, the better,” the delegation’s team leader James Lyons told a news conference. But he noted that Japan, not the IAEA, has to decide on whether to restart nuclear power plants in the country, saying: “That’s not part of our decision making process.” The energy-hungry nation has virtually no natural resources of its own and relied on atomic power for around a third of its electricity before March 11.

Since the disaster the vast bulk of nuclear plants have been shut down as local authorities blocked their being restarted following routine safety checks or maintenance. Japan has instead had to massively ramp up imports of fossil fuels and curb power usage as it tries to make up the shortfall in power generation. More than 19,000 people died in the natural disaster, but the nuclear emergency-the world’s worst since Chernobyl a quarter of a century ago-has not directly claimed any lives. However, tens of thousands of people were forced from their homes around the plant as radiation levels rocketed, with many not knowing when-or even if-they will be allowed to return.—AFP

Discovery of new active compounds against Alzheimer’s disease structure of the peptide that determines the interactions with active compounds. — AP

WASHINGTON: America may be a technology-driven nation, but the health care system’s conversion from paper to computerized records needs lots of work to get the bugs out, according to experts who spent months studying the issue.

Hospitals and doctors’ offices increasingly are going digital, the Bipartisan Policy Center says in a report released Friday. But there’s been little progress getting the computer systems to talk to one another, exchanging data the way financial companies do.

“The level of health information exchange in the US is extremely low,” the report says. At the consumer level, few people maintain a personal health record on their laptop or electronic tablet, partly due to concerns about privacy, security and accuracy that the government hasn’t resolved.

“How will sensitive health data be kept confidential and secure in digital data-sharing environments?” the report asks. “Many consumers ... are waiting for a reassuring answer to this question.” The report offers a window on progress toward a goal set by President Barack Obama, and President George W. Bush before him, that everyone in the United States should have an electronic medical record by 2014. While making no predictions, the report offers a collection of details indicating that the goal is a long shot at best. “Will 100 percent of our nation have electronic health records by 2014?” asked Janet Marchibroda,

who directs the center’s health technology initiative. “I would say getting to that last mile is difficult.” She expects the majority of hospitals and doctors to meet the goal, but it’s another matter when it comes to consumers.

In politically polarized Washington, the center tries to tackle national problems from a pragmatic perspective. The report, more than six months in the making, was produced by a panel representing hospitals, doctors, insurers, consumers and technology companies.

The review was led by two former senators with ties to the health care industry, Democrat Tom Daschle of South Dakota and Republican Bill Frist of Tennessee.

Electronic medical records are seen as a crucial component in creating a system that’s more efficient and less prone to error. The government has committed up to $30 billion to encourage this shift, mostly through incentive payments to hospitals and doctors that were authorized in 2009 under Obama’s economic stimulus law. Payments started flowing last year. The report found that 5 percent of eligible doctors received payments last year, while about 33 percent had registered with the government that they intend to qualify.

Overall, about one-third of doctors’ offices had some form of electronic records last year, compared with one-fourth in 2010.

Among hospitals, 32 percent received the incentive payments last year, the report said, while 61 percent notified the government

they intend to qualify. Those are signs of momentum, but the report found little progress in devising ways for the different computer systems to communicate with each other. Part of the problem is that there isn’t much financial incentive for competing health care providers to share information.

If an emergency room orders a test on a patient that a family doctor had run a week ago, the hospital gets paid for it. If the emergency room doctor relies on the test results from the family doctor, that’s less revenue for the hospital.

“Health information exchange will not occur at optimal levels ... without a viable, sustainable business model,” the report said.

Only from 7 percent to 11 percent of individuals have a personal electronic medical record. Some early adopters still run into problems with basic tasks such as downloading test results, renewing prescriptions online or scheduling appointments.

The report also says the government must address gaps in privacy protections. For example, a federal health privacy law that applies to hospitals, doctors, insurers and data transmission companies doesn’t apply to companies that market electronic medical records directly to the public.

“This uneven coverage of federal health privacy law can be confusing for consumers and contributes to reluctance,” the report said.— AP

Ultrasound zaps could be used as male contraceptives WASHINGTON: Zapping testicles with ultrasound can reduce sperm counts and might be used in the future as an inexpensive, reliable and reversible male contraceptive, according to US researchers. Scientists from the University of Nor th Carolina School of Medicine, who conducted experiments on male rats, issued their findings o n S a t u rd ay i n t h e j o u r n a l R e p ro d u c t i ve B i o l o g y a n d Endocrinology.

The y s a i d t he y we re convinced that the method, if studied further, could be used on hum a ns. The te a m l e d by Doc tor James Tsuruta found that by rotating high frequency (3MHz) ultrasound around the te s t i c l e s, t he y we re a b l e to cause depletion of germ cells t hroughout t he te s te s, t he reports said.

The best results were seen using two ultrasound sessions of 15 minutes, two days apart.

Saline was used to provide conduc tivity between the ultrasound transducer and the skin, and the testes were warmed to 37 degrees Celsius (almost 99 degrees Fahrenheit), the study noted. The procedure reduced the sperm count to zero, the researchers said. Fertile men in normal conditions have more than 39 million sperm when t he y e j a c ul a te. The Wor l d Health Organization has defined low sperm concentra-

t i on a s l e s s t ha n 15 m i l l i on sperm per milliliter. “Unlike humans, rats remain fertile even with ex tremely low sperm counts,” Tsuruta said. “However, our non-invasive ultrasound treatment reduced sperm reserves in rats far below levels normally seen in fertile men.” He said that further studies will be required to determine how long the contraceptive effect lasts and if it is safe to use multiple times. — AFP

‘Spam’ meat tied to diabetes risk in Native Americans ARIZONA: Native Americans who often ate processed meat in a can, generically known as “spam” and a common food on reservations, one subsidized by the US government-had a two-fold increased risk of developing diabetes over those who ate little or none, according to a US study. Native Americans are at especially high risk of developing diabetes, with nearly half having the condition by age 55. Researchers writing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition surveyed 2,000 Native Americans from Arizona, Oklahoma and North and South Dakota to look into potential reasons for the high rate.

“A lot of communities in this study are in very rural areas with limited access to grocery stores... and they want to eat foods that have a long shelf life,” said Amanda Fretts, the lead author and a researcher at the University of Washington School of Medicine.

None of the survey participants, whose average age was 35, had diabetes at the start of the study when they answered questions about diet and other health and lifestyle factors. After five years, a follow-up survey found that 243 people had developed diabetes. Among the 500 people in the original study group who ate the most canned processed meat, 85 developed diabetes.

In contrast, among the 500 people who ate the least amount of “spam,” just 44 developed the disease.

Though Spam is a brand-name pork product, the lower-case term is also used to describe any kind of processed, canned meat, Fretts said. Canned meat is available freely to many Native Americans on reservations as part of the US Department of Agriculture’s food

assistance program.

Fretts and her colleagues found that unprocessed meat did not have the same relationship with diabetes, with people equally likely to develop diabetes regardless of how much hamburger or cuts of pork or beef they ate.

“I think what this study indicates is processed meats should be a priority for reduction (in the diet), especially among American Indians where they can go to food assistance programs and they can get discounted spam,” said Dariush Mozaffarian, a professor at the Harvard School of Public Health who was not involved in the study.

Mozaffarian and his colleagues two years ago conducted an analysis that found that processed meats were tied to a 19 percent higher diabetes risk, while unprocessed meats were neutral.

“I think the biggest difference between processed and unprocessed meats is sodium,” he said, though he added that there is no clear explanation for the link of processed meats and diabetes.

Fretts and her colleagues noted that the people who ate the most processed meats tended also to be heavier, with larger waistlines, raising the possibility that processed meats contribute to obesity, which raises the risk of diabetes. In an emailed statement to Reuters Health, The American Meat Institute, which represents companies that process meat, said that “processed meats are a safe and nutritious part of a balanced diet.” Fretts said the study could not prove that eating processed meats was to blame for the increased risk of diabetes. “I think there needs to be more follow-up,” she said. — AP

MUMBAI: An Indian woman wearing a sari crosses a road in the business district in Mumbai yesterday. According to an article in the November issue of the Journal of the Indian Medical Association, doctors at Grant Medical College (GMC) in Mumbai have reported cases of what they are referring to as sari cancer. The report says that “the sari petticoat, if tied in the same place day after day, can cause chronic irritation along the waistline resulting in scaling or pigmentation and waist dermatoses can turn malignant as it did in the case of the three women treated at GMC”. — AFP

H E A LT H

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

New Mowasat physicians receive performance management workshops

Mai Roumani

KUWAIT: Ensuring the best quality of clinical excellence and patient care, New Mowasat Hospital continues to enhance the skills of its staff through continued investment in training and development.

New Mowasat physicians received the “Communication for Medical Professionals” and “Performance Management” workshops which were mainly intended to allow NMH physicians explore alternative and practical ways of thinking about communication with patients and colleagues and to align the performance for which they have always been known of.

Held in a consultative and informative way & focusing on the importance of communication and how language, emotion and objectivity affect communication; the workshop given by Edara Group addressed aspects like day-to-day communication with patients and in-house colleagues.

However, the workshops echoed a very effective feedback from the participants. “The workshop was a great learning experience and we look forward to more such interventions in the future” one of the participants stated. While another participant explained that the presentation and dis-

cussion were very useful and gives the chance to share views, problems, and suggestions.

Moreover, Human Resources Manager, Majeb Al Ajmi, declared that the training is in line with the hospital’s strategy of developing the skills of the hospital’s physicians, nurses, administrators and technicians to ensure the highest quality of health care services for patients and visitors.

The Hospital is always keen on providing skill building and motivating workshops, teaching principles of customer service, communication and problem solving, maintaining motivation and emotional control. Such workshops are excellent opportunities which allow the participants to learn techniques of increasing their skills in suppor ting and providing outstanding care to patients.

Since 1965, New Mowasat Hospital strives for excellence and exceeding expectations. The hospital is the first and only in Kuwait to achieve the highest two accreditations for quality health care; the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the Accreditation Canada International (ACI) Platinum Level. Our passion for quality makes us the first choice of patients and medical practitioners.

Performance Management workshop for medical advisory committee.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

W H AT ’ S O N

Upcoming events KDA to hold funtion The financial assistance to families of deceased members of Kozhikode District Association (KDA) will be disbursed on 3rd Febraury 2012 at United Indian School Abbasiya.

Sadanandan and Aboobakkar Koya who were members of the association passed away in Kuwait while they were in service and financial assistance is being disbursed to their family members. Asssociation President E.Rajagopalan and General Secretary Rishi Jacob requested all Kozhikode natives to attend the function.

Comedy play Indian Cultural Society proudly presents new concept of comedy play “Mujhse Shaadi Karogi” with Bhagyashree & Akshay Ananad along with Krutika Sharma, Prairna & Navin Agarwal on 17th Feb at 7 pm sharp at Dr Kamil Al Rays auditorium American International School near Police station Maidan Hawally Kuwait. The Chief Guest for the event will be Ambassador of India, Kuwait and the guest of honor will be prominent personalities from Kuwait. For more information contact: 97270386, 67030839, 66127231, or log on to ics.kuwait@gmail.com Music album An Indian music album, ‘Pranayam Madhuvasantham’, to be shot in Kuwait invites actors and associates, album’s creator Hari Paravoor said. The 9-songs audio album, which was released at a function at Gulf Indian School about a year ago is penned by Hari Paravoor and tuned by Bashir Koyilandi. The video album of the songs will be released shortly. The album creators would like creative contributions from artistes and common folks who can give a try in creative participation in the album. Please contact: 55442649.

Music festival On March 1, 2012, the “Blend Music Festival,” a mellow acoustic get-together of several local musicians, will take place in Bayt Lothan, the official sponsor, host, and curator of the event. This event will be FREE of charge and open to everyone to attend. We hope to see you all there, and here’s to a great start to 2012! The “Blend Music Festival” will be the first of many concerts to be held; there are a handful of musicians on board, and more will be added to the sets at a later stage. Here is the program for March 1st: 1- Ali Sleeq with Gary Ruston & Kevin Owen = JAZZ; 2- Hadi Sarieddine, Bader Nana, & Sarj = ROCK; 3- Lewis Chapman FOLK / ROCK. Acting workshop The British Academy of International Arts (BAIA) is holding a world class acting workshop over three days. Nona Shepphard, Associate Director of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), will share her expertise as actor, director and playwright. The workshop will involve learning how to transform the written text into a successful performance.

Shepphard is head of the audition panel at RADA and will also discuss how best to prepare for auditions. This workshop is a rare opportunity and a must for anyone interested in improving their acting skills and/or considering a career in Theatre. When: February 2nd, 3rd & 4th. For more information: info@thebaia.com or 6005-2087 Where: Shakespeare Theatre At The British School of Kuwait (BSK) Salwa.

Infoconnect expo to be held in Kuwait From January 29th till February 4th Infoconnect will be held at the Kuwait International Fair Grounds. Infoconnect is one of the most professionally organized trade shows in Kuwait, dedicated exclusively to the computer applications and information technology sector. The show ranks high on the popularity count, drawing in a large number of exhibitors as well as qualified business visitors at each of its editions. The line of products put on exhibit at the show is quite extensive and includes computer peripherals, IT security tools, software solutions, data warehousing systems and a host of other related services and accessories.

The show draws in active participation from eminent professionals from both the public as well as the private sectors and the latest innovations and developments in the IT industry are closely looked into here. The show is held over a period of seven days at the Kuwait International Fairground and enjoys large scale media coverage too.

GLEE-esque show choir This Valentine’s Day step into a musical Love Story performed by Vocal Rhapsody, KLT’s first ever GLEE-esque show choir. Vocal Rhapsody’s “Love Story” - is a show choir production with hit songs from artists such as Journey, Queen, Katy Perry and Meatloaf. It promises to be an exciting evening for all with some classic songs that everyone will enjoy. contact: http://www.theklt.com Cultural program On the 10th of February 2012, Friday at 3:30 pm. A cultural program will be staged at the Carmel School Kuwait, Khaitan. This will include a Book Fair and an Art Competition with a Musical Drama (JanatarDak). It is written n Directed by Rafiqul Islam Bulu and organized by the Bangladesh Udjapon Committee Kuwait. This is an open invitation, All are welcome.

Sheraton Kuwait & Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait honour ‘starchoice’ members

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heraton Kuwait and Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait hosted an exclusive “Starchoice” event where members from various organizations across Kuwait have attended.

“Starchoice” is a frequent reservation Loyalty Program designed to reward individual corporate travel arrangers for booking rooms at participating Starwood properties in Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia Pacific for their company’s individual travelers. Every time a room is booked at one of Starwood’s participating hotels, 100 “Starchoice” points are earned which could be redeemed by a great variety of awards.

Representing Sheraton Kuwait and Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait, Mounir Amer, General Manager of the Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait, expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the continued support extended by members

and shared with them the latest developments taking place at the Sheraton Kuwait and Four Points by Sheraton Kuwait.

During the course of the event, the top Starchoice producers representing various organizations across Kuwait were rewarded for their exceptional support to the two properties.

Fabulous prizes were raffled on the evening which included airline tickets presented by Air France KLM, Kuwait Airways, MEA, Boodai Aviation, in addition to valuable gifts offered by Ali Abdulwahab Sons & Co, Al Amin Medical Instruments Co, Beaubelle Spa, Tanagra, The Scientific Center, and Starwood Hotels in Amesterdam and France.

At the “Starchoice” event all guests were winners as M.H. Al Shaya Co. W.L.L/casual dining section had kindly offered all invitees generous gift vouchers from their numerous outlets.

KromOzone from Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons sponsors the 8th Kuwait Bike Show

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romOzone, one of Kuwait’s leading automotive accessories stores from Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons, was the main sponsor of the 8th Kuwait Bike Show that took place on Friday January 27th, 2012 in Marina Crescent.

As usual, KromOzone added flair to the event with its unique vehicle customization, and reached out to the hearts of the die-hard motorcycle riders with its Harley Davidson special edition Chevrolet Silverado.

Although the Kuwait Bike Shows mainly focuses on bikes, one vehicle stood out from the crowd: the debut of the special edition, and long awaited Trans Am that was presented by KromOzone. With a mean exterior combined with a customized interior, the Trans Am captivated the show’s attendees. Another addition by KromOzone included the Harley Davidson Silverado that was especially designed for the event. KromOzone showcased its design capabilities with an exciting exterior and two-toned orange and black interior, and if you heard music even though you are miles away from the show, be sure

that the music that came from the background was pumping out from the special edition Harley Davidson Chevrolet Silverado. The Silverado was mounted by a Harley Davidson “Sportster”, demonstrating that the Chevrolet Silverado is a vehicle that meets any and all needs. Apart from giving out gift vouchers to the 15 winners of the bike show contest, KromOzone’s presence was further highlighted with its special

Boat show in Kuwait Kuwait City, is like a magnet: indeed it has been attracting Bedouin people from the Arabian interior, in search of a sea breeze and an escape from recurring drought, for centuries. Today the metropolis is still an oasis in a land of desert plains, but rather more of the cultural and epicurean kind. Excellent museums; a corniche ornamented with combed beaches and extravagant restaurants; modern shopping complexes and marinas, and long and lazy retreats at new beach resorts mark the Kuwait City experience. The organizers of the Kuwait International Boat Show expect more than 100 marine companies to display their latest products, boats, yachts, super yachts, electronics, engines and thousands of boating accessories from major marine manufacturers. The Boat Show encompasses more than 120.000 m2 of space, both on land and in water.

Where: Souk Sharq Marina & Water Front Boat Show Timings: 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm, February 8- 12.

sories as well as everything from light to sound, custom paints to car styling, chrome to crystal, and entertainment systems. KromOzone offers certified products, warranties, and competitive prices and lives up to its credo, “Pimp Your Ride and Live Your Life!” with 2 boutiques located in Safat Alghanim and Shuwaikh.

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Burns Supper The Kuwait Caledonians are pleased to invite you to the 2012 Burns Supper to be held at the Movenpick Hotel, AlBida’a tomorrow 2nd February, 2012 Tickets will be available in January Please email kuwaitcaledonians@gmail.com Or call 60057882 Sadu weaving workshop This workshop is of four weeks duration, and it will be held twice a week. The morning group sessions are on Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 12pm. The evening group are on Sunday and Tuesday from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. A total of 8 sessions of three hours each.

This workshop will be held from January 22nd to February 18th.

For more Information kindly contact Sadu House at: info@alsadu.org.kw SaduWeaving@gmail.com 2243-2395 or 9959-7983

booth that displayed its best-selling accessories such as airbrushed motorcycle helmets, and airbrushed hoods. The booth also displayed custom Giovanna rims, alongside grilles and bumpers.

KromOzone from Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons is every car enthusiast’s destination for quality GM and aftermarket car accessories in Kuwait. KromOzone has been supplying drivers in Kuwait with genuine interior and exterior car acces-

Marina Hotel holds annual staff party

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arina Hotel Kuwait recently held its annual staff party 2011at Salwa Sabah Al Ahmed Theater and Hall.

The gathering gave everyone the opportunity to celebrate the success and achievements of 2011 and to welcome the New Year along with the challenges that it will bring.

Nabil Hammoud, General Manager, thanked all the management and employees for their great efforts and dedication throughout 2011 emphasizing on the importance of team work to foster good service which leads to better results. He also encouraged the staff to aim higher and work better through constant commitment always striving for excellence.

The evening was made special by distributing awards in various categories for best performers of the year, the best supervisors of the last quarter and the employees of the month. Nabil Hammoud also honored the staff with honesty certificates who returned

odikunnil Suresh MP (Member of Indian Parliment) presenting the gold gifts to the lucky draw winner of Orma Plaza Jewellery’s Easy Gold Scheme. Prize distribution was held at orma plaza Jewellery showroom in presence of managing Partner Abey Varicad & Benny Payapilly.

Chenganoor Pravasi send-off meeting

Nabil Hammoud, GM of Marina Hotel guest valuables found in the hotel. The selection of Mr & Ms Marina 2012 were done fairly by means of voting by the employees based on professionalism, team player and peer relationship.

The event included an exciting activities and a variety of enjoyable entertaining interdepartmental competitions. Employees and management were glad to be a part of the celebration.

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send-off meeting was held by the central committee of Chenganoor Pravasi Association Kuwait, to felicitate its founder member and vice-president P.I. Avarachen, as he is leaving to his native place for good.

On the occasion ex-president K.V James presided the meeting. General Secretary Jose Thomas delivered welcome speech, John Abraham, Geevarhese Joseph, P.V Mathew, Saju Vazhiyambalam and Adv. John Thomas made the felicitation and Rajiv Naduvilemuri conveyed vote of thanks. Philip Cherian handed over the memento to P.I. Avarachen as an appreciation for his sincere service and leadership for the association.

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W H AT ’ S O N

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

Embassy Information EMBASSY OF BRAZIL The Embassy of Brazil requests all Brazilian citizens in Kuwait to proceed to the website www.brazil.org.kw (Contact Us Form / Fale Conosco) in order to register or update contact information. The Embassy encourages all citizens to do so, including the ones who have already registered in person at the Embassy. The registration process helps the Brazilian Government to contact and assist Brazilians living abroad in case of any emergency. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF CANADA The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakel St., Block 4 in Da’aiyah.

Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday. The reception is closed from 12:30 to 01:00 pm for lunch break. Consular Services for Canadian Citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00 on Sunday through Wednesday. Canada offers a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that Consular Officials can contact and assist Canadians in an emergency in a foreign country, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform Canadians of a family emergency at home. The Embassy of Canada encourages all Canadian Citizens to register online through the Government of Canada Travel Website at www.voyage.gc.ca.

The Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi provides visa and immigration services to residents of Kuwait. Individuals who are interested in visiting, working or immigrating to Canada are invited to visit the website of the Canadian Embassy to the UAE at www.UAE.gc.ca. nnnnnnn

GUST MBA students complete financial course in NY

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hirteen Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) MBA students returned from a fruitful 10day trip abroad to take a Financial Crisis course at Fordham University in New York.

The MBA Office offered a grand opportunity to 13 students in the GUST MBA program, to participate in a 10-day course FIN 595 covering financial crisis.

The course took place in Fordham University where aside from various

class sessions; the students had the opportunity to visit various New York financial establishments including the New York Stock Exchange, CNBC, NASDAQ and Bloomberg.

It was a great chance for the students

to get some hands-on experience in one of the biggest financial capitals of the world and get one-on-one time with some of the greatest economic minds in business education and in the business practical world.

BSK wins Open Girls Volleyball tournament

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he Open Girl’s volleyball team cruised past Kuwait English School (KES) two sets to zero, to win the ISACK league title. This marks BSK’s first ISACK title of the 2011-12 season.

This victory proved to be very rewarding as the season was marked with adversity. After a few trying and testing experiences throughout the season, the girls decided to commit themselves fully to accomplishing their team goal of winning the title by devoting four days every week to training. This hard work paid off in the end and the girls have learned the valuable life lesson of “nothing comes easy and you must work hard to accomplish goals in life.”

The Open Girls’ Volleyball team consisting of epitomized the title of champions through their work ethic, commitment, competitive nature and mental toughness during the 2011-12 season and this deserves honoring. So let us give credit to the following girls: Fenna Hasche, Simran Bhatia, Elena Wright, Ishita Handa, Ankita Handa, Taleed Al-Shair, Alia Abou Marzouq, Iman Abou Marzouq, Sinem Ergen, Nourhan Ibrahim and Mariam Abu Gharib.

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Thursday, 9 February 2012 with an Experts Dialogue session participated by financial experts, business executives and social leaders to review the role of government, financial institutes and social welfare organizations in fostering financial inclusion of lower income NRIs.

The participants in Expert Dialogue shall explore different ideas and characteristics of savings products that can facilitate the commitment to save by lower income group of NRIs and how government can participate in such ventures.

The second day event on Friday, 10th February 2012, NRI Conference

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i.e. around 1425 years earlier from today) were some of the fascinating exhibits that admired the visitors. The members and families of Kuwait Tamil Islamic Committee (K-Tic) were informed and they visit the exhibition. The kids engaged and enjoyed in drawing and painting art works. Free Art Books were distributed by the event organizers.

We thank Kuwait Government for organizing such exhibitions. As our beloved Hon Minister of Awqaf & Islamic Affairs, Dr Adel Al Falah quote : “This exhibition shall give the youngsters to develop their abilities”- it gave the children a spark within them.

EMBASSY OF INDIA The Embassy of India will remain closed on the following dates during the month of February 2012.

1. Milad-Un-Nabi - Feb 5, - Sunday.

2. National Day of Kuwait - Feb 25, - Saturday.

3. Liberation Day of Kuwait - Feb 26, - Sunday.

EMBASSY OF MYANMAR Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar would like to inform the general public that the Embassy will move its office to new location at Villa 35, Road 203, Block 2, AlSalaam Area in South Surra. The Embassy wishes to advice Myanmar citizens and travellers to Myanmar to contact Myanmar Embassy at its new location from 26 January, 2012. Tel. 25240736, 25240290, Fax: 25240749, e-mail:myankuwait11@gmai1.com nnnnnnn

will be a series of plenary keynotes featuring prominent and visionary speakers, educational and motivational presentations, recommendations by subject matter experts, all for encouraging saving and investment habits among low income group of NRIs.

About 25 million Indians abroad generate an annual income equal to 35% of India’s GDP. However, the existing evidence of the patterns of remittance usage in India suggests that although the country receives a substantial amount of remittances from Indians living abroad, the bulk of

remittances are being mainly spent on housing and everyday consumption expenditure, rather than into productive investment. It is spent on daily living expense, including food and nutrition, health care needs, and the education of younger household members.

The beyond remittance NRI conference would come up with a set of recommendations to improve the impact of remittances by encouraging saving and investment habits among NRIs. The conference shall help identifying key issues and make appropriate recommendations for action by the government authorities, financial institutions and organizations for developing savings schemes aimed at NRI rehabilitation and retirement income.

The Beyond Remittance Conference shall utilized the occasion to formally launch Foundation for Enhancing Expatriate Life (FEEL) and also honoring prominent personalities with NRI jewels award for their significant contribution for the welfare of NRIs in the gulf countries

K-Tic visits Awqaf’s 5th Islamic art exhibition uwait Ministry of Awqaf & Islamic Affairs organized the 5th International Forum for Islamic Art which took place in the Grand Tent at the Grand Mosque premises. The exhibition was performed more than a week until 7th January 2012. Highly talented about 50 participants from various parts of the world made the exhibition grand success.

The paper marbling art workshop (painting on surface of water) from Turkey, the Origami of Italy, miniature script writing of Iran, Chinese calligraphy, Malaysian fabric art, ancient copies of Al-Quran (during Hijri 8-10

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KKMA to organize first NRI conference two-day NRI conference is scheduled to take place during 9 and 10 February 2012 at Ramada Hotel, Riggae, Kuwait, organized by Foundation for Enhancing Expatriate Life (FEEL), a new initiative of Kuwait Kerala Muslim Association (KKMA) for implementing its Model NRI project aimed at providing life skill enhancement training for NRIs. M.M. Hasan, former minister for NRI affairs in Kerala State, Padmashri holders of government of India Dr. Azad Moopen and CK Menon, NORKA Roots CEO Noyal Thomas, Managing Director of State Bank of Travancore, Nandakumaran P., SBT’s Chief Manager for International Banking Business Jyothish Kumar, UAE Exchange Company’s chief operating officer Sudhir Shetty, Executive Director of Center for Information Guidance India NV Kabeer along with prominent business and community leaders from Kuwait will participate in this Conference. The Ambassador of India Satish C. Mehta will inaugurate the Conference.

The Conference will begin on

EMBASSY OF CYPRUS The Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus requests Cypriot citizens living in Kuwait to register with the Embassy. This registration service is provided so that the Embassy can update its contact list and assist Cypriot citizens in cases of emergencies. Registration information can be emailed to cyprusembassykwt@gmail.com or faxed to 22253227 or given by phone to 65906048 (Mrs Christine).

EMBASSY OF PHILIPPINES For emergency, please contact the Consular hotline at 65184433. The Philippine Overseas Labor Office and other attached agencies shall continue to operate and hold office in Jabriya until 15 March 2012. All your passports and other consular concerns will be processed at our new location, except of course labor issues.

Regular working hours of the Embassy shall resume in Faiha today 01 February 2012. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF SRI LANKA The Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka will celebrate the 64th Anniversary of the Sri Lanka’s National Day at the Embassy premises at 8.30 a.m on 04.02.2012. The ceremony will include the hoisting of the national flag, reading of National Day messages, remembrance of national heroes, religious ceremonies followed by serving of refreshments. All Sri Lankan nationals and well-wishers are cordially invited for the event.

Sri Lanka Embassy - Jabriya, Block 10, Street 107, Bld 01, Kuwait. (Tel: 25339140/25339150) nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF NIGERIA The Nigerian embassy has its new office in Mishref. Block 3, Street 7, House 4. For enquires please call 25379541. Fax- 25387719.

Email- nigeriakuwait@yahoo.com or nigeriankuwait@yahoo.co.uk nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF THAILAND The Royal Thai Embassy in Kuwait, wishes to invite the Kuwaiti companies that deal business with Thai companies or those agencies of Thai commercial companies to visit the Embassy’s Commercial Office to register their relevant information to be part of the embassy’s business and trade database. The Royal Thai Embassy is located in Jabriya, Block 6, Street 8, Villa No. 1, Telephone No. 25317530 -25317531, Ext: 14.

Write to us Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

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03:35 Big Five Challenge 04:30 I’m Alive 05:25 Dogs 101 06:20 Animal Cops Philadelphia 07:10 Monkey Life 07:35 Wildlife SOS 08:00 Orangutan Island 08:25 Chris Humfrey’s Wildlife 08:50 Talk To The Animals 09:15 The Really Wild Show 09:40 Breed All About It 10:10 America’s Cutest Pet 11:05 Dogs 101 12:00 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip 12:55 Escape To Chimp Eden 13:20 Wildlife SOS 13:50 K9 Cops 14:45 Animal Cops Philadelphia 15:40 Mutant Planet 16:30 Monkey Life 17:00 The Really Wild Show 17:30 Animal Planet’s Most Outrageous 18:25 Dogs 101 19:20 Dogs 101 20:15 Escape To Chimp Eden 20:40 Breed All About It 21:10 Dogs 101 22:05 Speed Of Life 23:00 Wild France 23:55 Untamed & Uncut

03:05 03:35 04:00 04:20 04:30 04:45 05:00 05:05 05:25 05:35 05:50 06:10 06:20 06:30 06:45 06:50 07:10 07:20 07:35 08:05 08:35 09:20 09:50 10:20 11:10 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:45 14:15 14:45 15:35 16:25 17:10 17:40 18:10 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:50 21:20 21:50 23:20 23:50

As Time Goes By Dad’s Army Balamory Tellytales The Large Family The Roly Mo Show Buzz & Tell Tweenies 3rd & Bird Nina And The Neurons Balamory Tellytales The Large Family The Roly Mo Show Buzz & Tell Tweenies 3rd & Bird Nina And The Neurons Last Of The Summer Wine As Time Goes By The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Holby City New Tricks Dad’s Army Last Of The Summer Wine The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Holby City New Tricks The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Casualty Last Of The Summer Wine dinnerladies Lark Rise to Candleford As Time Goes By Dad’s Army God on Trial dinnerladies Casualty

03:40 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 04:25 James Martin’s Brittany 04:50 James Martin’s Brittany 05:15 James Martin’s Champagne 05:40 James Martin’s Champagne 06:05 Come Dine With Me 06:55 10 Years Younger 08:15 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets 08:40 James Martin’s Champagne 09:05 Masterchef Australia 10:15 Bargain Hunt 11:00 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 Come Dine With Me 12:50 10 Years Younger 13:35 What Not To Wear

14:30 What Not To Wear 16:10 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 16:55 Holmes On Homes 17:45 Antiques Roadshow 18:35 Cash In The Attic USA 19:00 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets 19:30 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Secrets 20:00 James Martin’s Brittany 20:25 James Martin’s Brittany 20:50 What To Eat Now - Summer 21:20 Cash In The Attic USA 21:40 10 Years Younger 22:30 What Not To Wear 23:20 What Not To Wear

03:00 03:25 03:50 04:00 04:25 04:50 05:15 05:35 06:00 06:10 06:35 07:00 07:15 07:30 07:55 08:20 08:45 09:00 09:25 09:50 10:15 10:40 11:05 11:30 11:55 12:20 12:35 13:00 13:15 13:40 13:55 14:20 14:45 15:15 15:40 16:05 16:30 16:55 17:45 18:20 18:45 Doo 19:10 19:35 20:00 20:15 20:40 21:05 21:30 21:45 22:10 22:35 23:00 23:25 23:55

King Arthur’s Disasters The Scooby Doo Show Popeye Classics Tom & Jerry Popeye The Jetsons The Flintstones Looney Tunes Pink Panther & Pals Tex Avery Duck Dodgers The Garfield Show Pink Panther & Pals Bananas In Pyjamas Baby Looney Tunes Gerald McBoing Boing Jelly Jamm New Yogi Bear Show Puppy In My Pocket The Garfield Show Pink Panther And Pals The Scooby Doo Show Tom & Jerry Dastardly And Muttley Top Cat New Yogi Bear Show Puppy In My Pocket Jelly Jamm Baby Looney Tunes Bananas In Pyjamas The Jetsons Duck Dodgers Scooby Doo Where Are You! The Garfield Show Pink Panther And Pals The Perils Of Penelope Pitstop Puppy In My Pocket Looney Tunes Tom & Jerry The Scooby Doo Show Scooby-Doo And ScrappyScooby Doo Where Are You! A Pup Named Scooby-Doo Jelly Jamm Baby Looney Tunes Gerald McBoing Boing Bananas In Pyjamas New Yogi Bear Show Pink Panther And Pals The Garfield Show Dastardly And Muttley Tom & Jerry The Garfield Show Dexters Laboratory

03:10 Best Ed 04:00 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 04:25 Adventure Time 04:50 Generator Rex 05:15 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 05:40 Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy 05:55 I Am Weasel 06:55 Powerpuff Girls 07:45 Angelo Rules 08:00 Casper’s Scare School 08:30 The Amazing World Of Gumball 08:45 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 09:15 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 09:40 Batman: The Brave And The Bold 10:05 Angelo Rules 10:30 Chowder 10:55 Adventure Time 11:20 Eliot Kid 11:35 The Marvelous Misadventures

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

TV PROGRAMS

Years

Of Flapjack 12:00 Ben 10 12:25 Sym-Bionic Titan 12:50 Courage The Cowardly Dog 13:15 I Am Weasel 13:40 Best Ed 14:05 Cow & Chicken 14:30 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 14:50 Eliot Kid 15:15 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 15:40 Ben 10: Alien Force 16:05 Courage The Cowardly Dog 16:30 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 16:55 The Amazing World Of Gumball 17:10 Adventure Time 17:35 Regular Show 18:00 Cow & Chicken 18:25 Bakugan: Gundalian Invaders 18:50 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 19:15 Angelo Rules 19:30 Total Drama World Tour 19:55 Hero 108 20:25 Sym-Bionic Titan 20:50 Adventure Time 21:25 The Grim Adventures Of Billy & Mandy 21:50 Courage 22:25 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 22:50 Cow And Chicken 23:00 Ben 10 23:25 Ben 10 23:50 Courage The Cowardly Dog

03:25 Ultimate Survival 04:20 Mythbusters 05:15 How Stuff Works 05:40 How It’s Made 06:05 Dirty Jobs 07:00 Mythbusters 07:50 Overhaulin’ 08:45 How Stuff Works 09:40 How Stuff Works 10:05 Cake Boss 10:30 Border Security 10:55 Auction Kings 11:25 Gold Rush: Alaska 16:00 Overhaulin’ 16:55 Ultimate Survival 17:50 Mythbusters 18:45 Cash Cab Us 19:10 Border Security 19:40 Auction Kings 20:05 How It’s Made 20:35 How Stuff Works 21:00 Cake Boss 21:30 The Future Of...

22:25 Mythbusters 23:20 Curiosity: What’s America Worth?

03:40 NASA’s Greatest Missions 04:35 How Does That Work?

05:00 How Stuff’s Made 05:25 Kings of Construction 06:20 Prototype This 07:10 Eco-Tech 08:00 How the Universe Works 08:50 How Does That Work?

09:15 How Stuff’s Made 09:40 Through the Wormhole with Morgan Freeman 10:35 NASA’s Greatest Missions 11:25 Kings of Construction 12:20 Prototype This 13:15 The Gadget Show 13:40 The Gadget Show 14:05 Eco-Tech 14:55 How Does That Work?

15:20 How Stuff’s Made 15:50 How the Universe Works 16:40 The Tech Show 17:05 Prototype This 18:00 The Gadget Show 18:50 Kings of Construction 19:40 How Techies Changed the World 20:30 How Techies Changed the World 21:20 Prototype This 22:10 Race to Mars 23:00 How Techies Changed the World 23:50 How Techies Changed the World

FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX ON OSN ACTION HD

03:15 EMPEROR’S NEW SCHOOL 03:35 STITCH 04:00 STITCH 04:25 REPLACEMENTS 04:50 REPLACEMENTS 05:15 Fairly Odd Parents 05:35 Fairly Odd Parents 06:00 HANNAH MONTANA 06:20 RECESS 06:45 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 07:05 Suite Life On Deck 07:30 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 07:55 PHINEAS AND FERB 08:10 FISH HOOKS 08:35 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 09:00 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 09:15 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 09:25 HANDY MANNY 09:40 THE HIVE 09:47 MINI ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH 09:50 Fairly Odd Parents 10:15 SO RANDOM 10:40 HAVE A LAUGH 10:45 HANNAH MONTANA 11:10 Suite Life On Deck 11:35 JAKE & BLAKE 12:00 JONAS 12:25 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 12:45 PHINEAS AND FERB 13:10 SO RANDOM 13:30 Suite Life On Deck 13:55 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 14:20 HAVE A LAUGH 14:30 SHAKE IT UP 14:55 PHINEAS AND FERB 15:20 PHINEAS AND FERB 15:45 FISH HOOKS 16:10 SHAKE IT UP 16:40 SO RANDOM 17:05 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 17:30 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 17:55 FISH HOOKS 18:20 Suite Life On Deck 18:35 HAVE A LAUGH 18:45 Suite Life On Deck 19:10 PHINEAS AND FERB 19:35 PHINEAS AND FERB 20:00 HANNAH MONTANA 20:25 PHINEAS AND FERB 20:50 SHAKE IT UP 21:15 FISH HOOKS 21:35 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 22:00 SHAKE IT UP 22:25 SHAKE IT UP 22:50 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 23:15 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 23:35 SONNY WITH A CHANCE

03:05 Jungle Junction 03:15 Little Einsteins 03:40 Higglytown Heroes 03:55 Higglytown Heroes 04:10 Jo Jo’s Circus 04:30 Special Agent Oso 04:45 Special Agent Oso 05:00 Jungle Junction 05:15 Jungle Junction 05:25 Little Einsteins 05:50 Higglytown Heroes 06:05 Higglytown Heroes 06:20 Jo Jo’s Circus 06:40 Special Agent Oso 06:55 Special Agent Oso 07:10 Jungle Junction 07:25 Jungle Junction 07:35 Little Einsteins 08:00 Higglytown Heroes 08:15 Higglytown Heroes 08:30 Jo Jo’s Circus 08:50 Jungle Junction 09:00 Jungle Junction 09:15 Higglytown Heroes 09:30 Higglytown Heroes 09:45 Handy Manny 10:00 Special Agent Oso 10:15 Jungle Junction 10:30 Jungle Junction 10:45 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 11:10 The Hive 11:20 Handy Manny 11:35 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 11:50 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 12:05 The Hive 12:15 Mini Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 12:20 Lazytown 12:45 Mickey Mousekersize 12:50 Lazytown 13:15 Mickey Mousekersize 13:20 Lazytown 13:47 Mickey Mousekersize 13:50 Lazytown 14:20 Jungle Junction 14:35 Special Agent Oso 14:45 Lazytown 15:10 Handy Manny 15:25 Jungle Junction 15:40 Imagination Movers 16:05 The Hive 16:15 Special Agent Oso 16:25 Little Einsteins 16:50 Lazytown 17:15 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 17:40 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 17:55 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 18:05 Handy Manny 18:20 Lazytown 18:45 Mickey Mousekersize 18:50 Lazytown 19:15 Mickey Mousekersize 19:20 Lazytown 19:47 Mickey Mousekersize 19:50 Lazytown 20:20 Special Agent Oso 20:30 Jungle Junction 20:45 Handy Manny 20:55 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 21:10 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 21:25 The Hive 21:35 Little Einsteins 22:00 Mini Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 22:05 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 22:25 101 Dalmatians 22:40 101 Dalmatians 22:50 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 23:05 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 23:20 The Hive 23:30 Mini Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 23:35 A Poem Is...

23:40 Animated Stories 23:45 Jungle Junction

03:15 04:10 05:05 06:00 07:50

25 Most Stylish Sexiest Extreme Hollywood THS Behind The Scenes

08:20 E! News 09:15 Bridalplasty 10:15 50 Cutest Child Stars: All Grown Up 12:05 E! News 13:05 Ice Loves Coco 13:35 Ice Loves Coco 14:05 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 15:00 Style Star 15:30 THS 16:25 Behind The Scenes 16:55 Dirty Soap 17:55 E! News 18:55 THS 19:55 Fashion Police 20:55 Chelsea Lately 21:25 Kourtney & Kim Take New York 22:25 E! News 23:25 Chelsea Lately 23:55 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

03:05 03:50 04:40 05:25 06:15 07:10 08:00 08:55 09:40 10:25 11:10 11:35 11:55 12:40 13:25 14:15 15:00 15:25 15:50 16:35 17:20 18:10 19:00 19:45 20:10 20:55 21:20 22:10 23:00 23:50

Couples Who Kill Deadly Women Dr G: Medical Examiner Ghost Lab A Haunting Mystery Diagnosis FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Mystery Diagnosis Real Emergency Calls Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared Murder Shift Mystery Diagnosis Real Emergency Calls Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Real Emergency Calls Mystery Diagnosis Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared I Almost Got Away With It Cuff Me If You Can

03:45 Predator CSI 04:40 Bite Me With Dr. Mike Leahy 05:35 Great Migrations 06:30 Hooked 07:25 World’s Creepiest Killers 08:20 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 09:15 Monster Fish 10:10 Caught In The Act 11:05 Predator CSI 12:00 Bears Of Fear Island 13:00 Fish Warrior 14:00 Warrior Bees 15:00 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 16:00 Hooked 17:00 Built For The Kill 18:00 Predator CSI 19:00 Fish Warrior 20:00 Warrior Bees 21:00 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 22:00 Hooked 23:00 Built For The Kill

04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:15 16:15 18:00 20:15 22:00

I Come With The Rain-PG15 The Three Musketeers-PG15 Star Trek: First Contact-PG Flight Of The Phoenix-PG15 What Lies Beneath-PG15 Star Trek: First Contact-PG Bad Girls-PG15 What Lies Beneath-PG15 Malibu Shark Attack-18 Wild Things: Foursome -18

03:00 Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star-PG15 05:00 Alabama Moon-PG15 07:00 Adventures Of A Teenage Dragonslayer-PG 09:00 Desperate Hours: An Amber Alert-PG15 10:45 The A-Team-PG15 13:00 Swansong: Story Of Occi Byrne-PG15 15:00 Mars Needs Moms-PG 17:00 Desperate Hours: An Amber Alert-PG15 18:45 Pirates Of The Caribbean: On Stranger Tides-PG15 21:00 The Way Back-PG15 23:15 Unanswered Prayers-PG15

03:00 Friends 03:30 Friends 04:00 Dharma And Greg 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 05:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 06:00 Yes Dear 06:30 Just Shoot Me 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 08:00 Dharma And Greg 08:30 Friends 09:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 09:30 Modern Family 10:00 Parks And Recreation 10:30 Just Shoot Me 11:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 12:00 Yes Dear 12:30 Dharma And Greg 13:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 13:30 Just Shoot Me 14:00 Friends 14:30 Parks And Recreation 15:00 Modern Family 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 How I Met Your Mother 18:00 Friends 18:30 Friends 19:00 Friends With Benefits 19:30 Parks And Recreation 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 21:30 The Colbert Report 22:00 American Dad 22:30 Funny Or Die Presents 23:00 Family Guy 23:30 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

THE WAY BACK ON OSN CINEMA 19:00 Death At A Funeral-PG15 21:00 The Way Back-PG15 23:15 Youth In Revolt-18 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Grey’s Anatomy The Gates Good Morning America Kojak Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Martha Stewart Show The View Private Practice Grey’s Anatomy Kojak Live Good Morning America The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale Coronation Street Once Upon A Time Falling Skies Strike Back Terriers The Gates

03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:10

Grey’s Anatomy Private Practice Charlie’s Angels Cold Case How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street House Hawthorne Grey’s Anatomy Royal Pains How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show House Cold Case How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show House Once Upon A Time Falling Skies Strike Back Luck In Plain Sight

03:00 I Come With The Rain-PG15 05:00 They Wait-18 07:00 Dick Tracy-PG15 09:00 Shinjuku Incident-PG15 11:00 Flight Of The Phoenix-PG15 13:00 Age Of The Dragons-PG15 15:00 Shinjuku Incident-PG15 17:00 Blue Crush 2-PG15 19:00 30 Days Of Night: Dark Days18 21:00 Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels-18 23:00 Bats-18

04:00 Babe: Pig In The City-FAM 06:00 Garfield-PG 08:00 Lost In Yonkers-PG 10:00 Crazy On The Outside-PG15 12:00 The Big Green-PG 14:00 It’s A Wonderful AfterlifePG15 16:00 Mr. Wrong-PG15 18:00 Paper Man-PG15 20:00 Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story-PG15 22:00 Killing Bono-18

03:00 Garden State-18 05:00 The Last Station-PG15 07:15 Oceans - Into The Deep-PG 09:00 The Last Song-PG15 11:00 Dean Spanley-PG 13:00 Star Trek III: The Search For Spock-PG15 15:00 Moon Over Parador-PG15 16:45 Funny Bones-PG15 19:00 The Deep-PG15 21:15 Fragments-18 23:15 Spartacus-PG15

03:00 05:00 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00

Flipped-PG Ways To Live Forever-PG15 Charlie St. Cloud-PG15 How To Train Your Dragon-PG 50 First Dates-PG15 Freestyle (2010)-PG15 Stone Of Destiny-PG15 How To Train Your Dragon-PG

04:00 Ramses Of Egypt-PG 06:00 True Story Of Puss’n Boots-PG 08:00 Turandot-PG 10:00 The Muppets Take Manhattan-PG 12:00 My Fair Madeline-FAM 14:00 Legend Of The Guardians-PG 16:00 Quest For Zhu-PG 18:00 The Muppets Take Manhattan-PG 20:00 Ulysses-PG 22:00 My Fair Madeline-FAM

04:00 06:30 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

The Karate Kid-PG The Lightkeepers-PG15 Africa United-PG15 The Lightkeepers-PG15 District 9-PG15 Africa United-PG15 My Last Five Girlfriends-PG15 District 9-PG15 Saint John Of Las Vegas-18 Last Night-PG15

03:00 04:00 07:00 08:30 09:30 11:30 14:30 17:30 18:00 19:00 22:00

Trans World Sport Cricket Twenty20 Volvo Ocean Race Volvo Ocean Race Test Cricket Highlights Live Cricket Twenty20 Cricket Twenty20 Futbol Mundial Trans World Sport Cricket Twenty20 Test Cricket Highlights

03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 17:30 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Speedway Le Mans Series Highlights UFC Unleashed UFC Unleashed WWE Vintage Collection WWE NXT Speedway Intercontinental Le Mans Cup V8 Supercars V8 Supercars WWE SmackDown Intercontinental Le Mans Cup Speedway Aquabike World Aquabike World WWE Bottom Line WWE Vintage Collection UFC Unleashed UFC Unleashed UFC Unleashed WWE SmackDown

03:00 Futbol Mundial 03:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 04:00 Cricket Twenty20 07:00 Futbol Mundial 07:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 08:00 Scottish League Cup 10:00 Golfing World 11:00 ICC Cricket World 11:30 Top 14 13:30 Scottish League Cup 15:30 Top 14 Highlights 16:00 Golfing World 17:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 18:00 Futbol Mundial 18:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 19:00 Scottish League Cup 21:00 European Tour Weekly 21:30 ICC Cricket World 22:00 Trans World Sport 23:00 Scottish Premier League Highlights 23:30 European PGA Tour Highlights

03:30 04:00 05:00 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00

Futbol Mundial World Pool Masters US Bass Fishing FIVB Beach Volley Ball FIVB Beach Volley Ball Golfing World Futbol Mundial

08:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 09:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 10:00 World Cup of Pool 11:00 World Pool Masters 13:00 Golfing World 14:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 15:00 Cricket International Twenty20 18:00 Live Football Copa Del Sol 20:00 Golfing World 23:00 Cricket International Twenty20

03:00 03:30 04:00 04:30 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pub Dig American Pickers Ax Men Tales Of The Gun Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pub Dig American Pickers Ax Men Tales Of The Gun Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pawn Stars Pub Dig American Pickers Ax Men Tales Of The Gun Battlefield Detectives Last Voices Of World War I Last Voices Of World War I

03:25 04:20 05:15 06:10 06:35 07:05 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 10:25 10:55 11:50 12:50 13:50 14:45 15:45 16:40 17:35 18:30 19:25 20:25 21:20 22:15 23:10

How Do I Look?

Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

Homes With Style Area Clean House Videofashion News Videofashion News Videofashion Daily Open House Open House How Do I Look?

Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

Clean House Mel B: It’s A Scary World How Do I Look?

Giuliana & Bill Kimora: Life In The Fab Lane Jerseylicious Giuliana & Bill Big Rich Texas Big Rich Texas Clean House: New York Tia And Tamera How Do I Look?

03:00 Planet Food 04:00 Planet Sports 05:00 Globe Trekker 06:00 Planet Food 07:00 Opening Soon 07:30 Wild At Heart 08:00 Globe Trekker 09:00 Cruising To The Northern Lights 10:00 Essential 10:30 4real 11:00 Planet Food 12:00 Opening Soon 12:30 Wild At Heart 13:00 Globe Trekker 14:00 Sophie Grigson In The Souk 14:30 Chef Abroad 15:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 16:00 Planet Food 17:00 Globe Trekker 18:00 Wild At Heart 18:30 Opening Soon 19:00 Sophie Grigson In The Souk 19:30 Chef Abroad 20:00 Globe Trekker 21:00 Think Green 22:00 Third Class Traveller 23:00 Intrepid Journeys

Classifieds WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Airlines QTR PIA RBG JZR JZR QTR JZR ETH THY UAE DHX QTR MSR FDB ETD GFA KAC THY FAH JZR JZR BAW DHX KAC AFR KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC KAC UAE ABY QTR ETD FDB BAB GFA FCX IRA GBG KNE RBG JZR RKM IRM MEA KAC MSR JZR IRC CLX KAC GFA MSR SYR FDB KAC UAL QTR KNE SVA RJA ABY KAC JZR KAC QTR JZR IYE JZR ETD UAE FDB KAC GFA SVA RBG ABY JZR BAB ALK JZR FDB KAC KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC AIC KAC KAC KAC FDB JAI OMA IRC DHX GRF MEA GFA QTR UAE JZR SAI JZR UAL AXB DLH

Arrival Flights on Wednesday 1/2/2012 Flt Route 138 DOHA 205 LAHORE/PESHAWER 3564 ASSIUT 267 BEIRUT 539 CAIRO 6130 DOHA 184 DUBAI 620 ADDIS ABABA 772 ISTANBUL 853 DUBAI 370 BAHRAIN 148 DOHA 612 CAIRO 67 DUBAI 305 ABU DHABI 211 BAHRAIN 544 CAIRO 770 ISTANBUL 201 DUBAI 555 ALEXANDRIA 529 ASSIUT 157 LONDON 170 BAHRAIN 412 MANILA/BANGKOK 6702 PARIS 206 ISLAMABAD 53 DUBAI 352 COCHIN 302 MUMBAI 362 COLOMBO 344 CHENNAI 855 DUBAI 125 SHARJAH 132 DOHA 301 ABU DHABI 55 DUBAI 436 BAHRAIN 213 BAHRAIN 203 DUBAI 603 SHIRAZ 931 BISHKEK 839 JEDDAH 3555 ALEXANDRIA 165 DUBAI 310 RAS ALKHAIMAH 5066 MASHAD 404 BEIRUT 382 DELHI 610 CAIRO 201 DAMASCUS 6791 MASHAD 792 LUXEMBOURG 672 DUBAI 219 BAHRAIN 621 ASSIUT 341 DAMASCUS 57 DUBAI 790 MEDINAH 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 140 DOHA 745 JEDDAH 500 JEDDAH 640 AMMAN 123 SHARJAH 284 DHAKA 257 BEIRUT 546 ALEXANDRIA 134 DOHA 1535 CAIRO 824 SANAA/DOHA 213 DEIREZZOR/ALEPPO 303 ABU DHABI 857 DUBAI 59 DUBAI 550 SHARM EL SHEIKH/SOHAG 215 BAHRAIN 510 RIYADH 3557 SOHAG 127 SHARJAH 777 JEDDAH 437 BEIRUT 227 COLOMBO/DUBAI 177 DUBAI 63 DUBAI 542 CAIRO 618 DOHA 787 RIYADH 786 JEDDAH 614 BAHRAIN 674 DUBAI 975 CHENNAI/GOA 166 PARIS/ROME 102 NEW YORK/LONDON 774 RIYADH 61 DUBAI 572 MUMBAI 647 MUSCAT 6793 MASHAD 372 BAHRAIN 81 BAGHDAD 402 BEIRUT 217 BAHRAIN 136 DOHA 859 DUBAI 135 BAHRAIN 441 LAHORE 239 AMMAN 981 BAHRAIN 393 KOZHIKODE/COCHIN 636 FRANKFURT

Time 0:20 0:25 0:40 0:45 0:50 1:15 1:20 1:45 2:15 2:35 2:55 2:55 3:00 3:05 3:10 3:15 4:40 4:50 5:30 6:00 6:20 6:40 6:40 6:45 7:00 7:40 7:45 7:50 7:55 8:20 8:25 8:30 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:20 9:40 9:55 10:30 10:40 11:00 11:05 11:05 11:20 11:45 11:50 11:55 12:45 12:55 13:00 13:10 13:15 13:20 13:25 13:30 13:45 13:50 14:00 14:05 14:20 14:25 14:30 14:40 14:45 15:00 15:00 15:20 15:25 16:25 16:35 16:45 16:50 16:55 17:05 17:10 17:15 17:20 17:35 17:40 17:45 18:05 18:10 18:15 18:40 18:50 18:55 19:05 19:10 19:20 19:25 19:30 19:30 19:35 19:40 20:00 20:10 20:15 20:20 21:00 21:15 21:20 21:25 21:35 21:40 21:55 22:40 22:45 23:00 23:40 23:50

Airlines QTR PIA RBG JZR JZR QTR JZR ETH THY UAE DHX QTR MSR FDB ETD GFA KAC THY FAH JZR JZR BAW DHX KAC AFR KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC KAC UAE ABY QTR ETD FDB BAB GFA FCX IRA GBG KNE RBG JZR RKM IRM MEA KAC MSR JZR IRC CLX KAC GFA MSR SYR FDB KAC UAL QTR KNE SVA RJA ABY KAC JZR KAC QTR JZR IYE JZR ETD UAE FDB KAC GFA SVA RBG ABY JZR BAB ALK JZR FDB KAC KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC AIC KAC KAC KAC FDB JAI OMA IRC DHX GRF MEA GFA QTR UAE JZR SAI JZR UAL AXB DLH

Departure Flights on Wednesday 1/2/2012 Flt Route 138 DOHA 205 LAHORE/PESHAWER 3564 ASSIUT 267 BEIRUT 539 CAIRO 6130 DOHA 184 DUBAI 620 ADDIS ABABA 772 ISTANBUL 853 DUBAI 370 BAHRAIN 148 DOHA 612 CAIRO 67 DUBAI 305 ABU DHABI 211 BAHRAIN 544 CAIRO 770 ISTANBUL 201 DUBAI 555 ALEXANDRIA 529 ASSIUT 157 LONDON 170 BAHRAIN 412 MANILA/BANGKOK 6702 PARIS 206 ISLAMABAD 53 DUBAI 352 COCHIN 302 MUMBAI 362 COLOMBO 344 CHENNAI 855 DUBAI 125 SHARJAH 132 DOHA 301 ABU DHABI 55 DUBAI 436 BAHRAIN 213 BAHRAIN 203 DUBAI 603 SHIRAZ 931 BISHKEK 839 JEDDAH 3555 ALEXANDRIA 165 DUBAI 310 RAS ALKHAIMAH 5066 MASHAD 404 BEIRUT 382 DELHI 610 CAIRO 201 DAMASCUS 6791 MASHAD 792 LUXEMBOURG 672 DUBAI 219 BAHRAIN 621 ASSIUT 341 DAMASCUS 57 DUBAI 790 MEDINAH 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 140 DOHA 745 JEDDAH 500 JEDDAH 640 AMMAN 123 SHARJAH 284 DHAKA 257 BEIRUT 546 ALEXANDRIA 134 DOHA 1535 CAIRO 824 SANAA/DOHA 213 DEIREZZOR/ALEPPO 303 ABU DHABI 857 DUBAI 59 DUBAI 550 SHARM EL SHEIKH/SOHAG 215 BAHRAIN 510 RIYADH 3557 SOHAG 127 SHARJAH 777 JEDDAH 437 BEIRUT 227 COLOMBO/DUBAI 177 DUBAI 63 DUBAI 542 CAIRO 618 DOHA 787 RIYADH 786 JEDDAH 614 BAHRAIN 674 DUBAI 975 CHENNAI/GOA 166 PARIS/ROME 102 NEW YORK/LONDON 774 RIYADH 61 DUBAI 572 MUMBAI 647 MUSCAT 6793 MASHAD 372 BAHRAIN 81 BAGHDAD 402 BEIRUT 217 BAHRAIN 136 DOHA 859 DUBAI 135 BAHRAIN 441 LAHORE 239 AMMAN 981 BAHRAIN 393 KOZHIKODE/COCHIN 636 FRANKFURT

Time 0:20 0:25 0:40 0:45 0:50 1:15 1:20 1:45 2:15 2:35 2:55 2:55 3:00 3:05 3:10 3:15 4:40 4:50 5:30 6:00 6:20 6:40 6:40 6:45 7:00 7:40 7:45 7:50 7:55 8:20 8:25 8:30 9:00 9:05 9:15 9:20 9:40 9:55 10:30 10:40 11:00 11:05 11:05 11:20 11:45 11:50 11:55 12:45 12:55 13:00 13:10 13:15 13:20 13:25 13:30 13:45 13:50 14:00 14:05 14:20 14:25 14:30 14:40 14:45 15:00 15:00 15:20 15:25 16:25 16:35 16:45 16:50 16:55 17:05 17:10 17:15 17:20 17:35 17:40 17:45 18:05 18:10 18:15 18:40 18:50 18:55 19:05 19:10 19:20 19:25 19:30 19:30 19:35 19:40 20:00 20:10 20:15 20:20 21:00 21:15 21:20 21:25 21:35 21:40 21:55 22:40 22:45 23:00 23:40 23:50

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

MATRIMONIAL Proposals invited for an Ezhava girl MBA 23 years old, looking for well educated Malayali boys from India or abroad. Email: shibusviji@yahoo.co.in, shibusmini@gmail.com (C 3853) 28-1-2012

ACCOMMODATION Indian Tamil Muslim family with small family, 2 working ladies, 2 bachelors, 2 bedroom flat, rent KD 65 with W&E, 4th Ring Road behind petrol station near Farah Jamiya Maidan Hawally.

Call: 97988528 / 66594790.

(C 3844) To let from 1 March 2012, 1 semi furnished big room with an attached small room consisting of toilet from a 3 bedroom spacious flat in B’neid Al-ghar. Rent KD 75 for single occupancy and KD 95 for double occupancy. For more details contact: 60914165.

(C 3846) 25-1-2012 Immediate sharing accommodation available for a decent Indian Christian couple or bachelor, near Salmiya garden. Please contact after 2:30 pm 66884273, 25657832.

(C 3843) ٢٤-١-٢٠١٢

FOR RENT A park in Wafra animal pens, very clean, over an area of 2500m, very large fenced yard in front (5) rooms, saloons, separate diwaniyas and swimming pool, fountain, children games tent. 94426116 For rent in Far waniya, basement 700m, car parking. 66920123 Flat in Maidan Hawally, one room, living room, bathroom, super deluxe finished kitchen, outstanding location. Rent KD 195.

Foreigners and expatriates only. Central satellite, CA/C and boiler. 66980123 A floor in Dasman, 300m, outstanding location, on main street can be sued by lawyer, consultations, clinics, health club, saloon, workshop, training center.

66980123 For rent in Salmiya, an apartment 3 rooms + 2 baths + saloon + swimming pool + DSL + Gym + Security + children games + other features. Rent start from KD 475. Foreigners and expats only. 66297171 For rent in Salmiya, an apartment 3 rooms + 3 baths + Saloon + Kitchen + Satellite. Outstanding location. Foreigners and expatriates only, no brokers.

66060299 For rent, basements in Jabriya and Hawally, good location, plastic floors, CA/C, serious only call: 66980123 For rent or investment, complete floors with a basement in Salmiya, good location, licensed for clinics, no brokers. 66060299 For rent, flat in Bneid AlQar (2 rooms, maid rooms, 3 baths, kitchen) deluxe finishing good location.

55117226

For rent in Fahaheel.

Complete building for companies (2 rooms, 2 baths, living room, kitchen) good location, car parking.

66233230 For rent, one floor in a villa in Salmiya, (3 rooms, 4 baths, large living room, maid room, driver’s room, diwaniya) parking. Centeral satellite. Rent KD 750.

67750024 A park for rent to families. 4 bed rooms + 4 bathrooms + living room + Diwaniya + rides in the garden + Isolated diwaniya. Fully furnished, A/C units, domestic help rooms. 99825160 For rent 1600m warehouse, can be used for ceramics, marble, electric or sanitary fittings, has electricity + 2 rooms + kitchen + bathroom. 99825160 An entire building for rent for companies, 30 flats in Kheitan (2 rooms, maid room, 2 baths + living room + kitchen) central satellite.

60658811

FOR SALE Expat owned Toyota Aurion, 2007 model, silver metallic color, done 73,000 kms, single owner.

Registration and full cover insurance valid up to Nov. 2012. Price KD 4,975/-.

Please contact Thomas only between 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm at Tel: 22660301.

(C 3850) Well maintained Toyota Camr y 1998 for sale.

Contact: 99172842. (C 3852) 28-1-2012 Toyota Jeep Prado model 2009, white metallic color, 6 cylinder engine, full option (limited) sunroof, alloy rim, G.P.R screen, fog lamp, cruise control, wooden interior etc. Price KD 7,950/negotiable.

Contact: 66396517 (C 3845) 25-1-2012 Toyota Corolla 2011 model, white color, law mileage, excellent condition, lady driven, price KD 3650.

Contact: 60951195.

(C 3841) Toyota Camry 2007 GLX, silver color, law mileage,

No: 15346

excellent condition, alloy wheel, wooden decor, sensor fog lamp etc, wanted price KD 3350. Contact: 60099305. (C 3842) ٢٤-١-٢٠١٢

SITUATION WANTED Indian couple needs a job 12 years experience in Kuwait. Cleaning, cooking and driving, we are expecting good salary. Contact: 65585930.

(C 3851) 28-1-2012 Immediately available a Post graduate secretary having more than 12 years experience in Kuwait with full accounting background, experience in oilfield/ ministry tenders, foreign purchasing, correspondence, holding Kuwait driving license, part time acceptable. Call: 97669236/ 24315927. (C 3847) 25-1-2012 MBA Degree holder with 25 years multinational experience. Having own car and delivery van, having expertise in Management, Costing and Marketing fields. 10 years in Kuwait.

Looking for Bus. Development and consultancy opportunities.

Contact: 60647270 email: evzonekuwait@email.com (C 3839) 23-1-2012

CHANGE OF NAME I, M. Madhavan, holder of Indian Passport No. H5961296, son of M. Muthukrishanan, converted in Islam and do now hereafter be known by my new name M. MOHAMED SHARIF. (C 3855) 1-2-2012 I, Mobin Sekh Jali, holder of Indian Passport No. E3360623 hereby change my name to MUBIN SHEIKH JALIL. (C 3854) 30-1-2012 I, Chinna Ravi Raj s/o Chinta Someswara Rao holding Indian Passport No: Z1852081 place of issue Kuwait would like to change my name as CHINTA RAVI RAJ. (C 3849) 28-1-2012

Marthomite parents in Kuwait invite proposals for their daughter (26/160/Fair), B/ B in Kuwait, Masters from the UK and currently working in Bangalore as senior executive, from well qualified and employed MARTHOMA/ CSI/ ORTHODOX boys (preferably working in Bangalore/ Abroad). Email: thomaskw8@yahoo.com (C 3840) 23-1-2012

TUITION Business management teacher with doctoral degree for universities, institutions, corporate & all student levels. Over 10 years experience.

Call 66495951. (C 3817) Business management teacher with doctoral degree for universities, institutions, corporate & all student levels. Over 10 years experience.

Call 66495951. (C 3817) Mathematics teacher, Intermediate and secondary Exams models, Easy method, Exams from past years with solutions. 97301901 English teacher (3) years experience, looking for a job and ready to start with all educational stages.

55963993 Mathematics teacher for Universities, Institutions, Foreign Schools, Administrative, American, English, Australian, Bahrain, Electric and Gulf Sciences, Algbra Prel, Mathematics, intermediate, gmat, sat college, math98, 110 pre calculus geometry. 97619261 A Syrian Arabic language teacher. Masters in methods of teaching and follow up of 10th grade and 11th grade students. 97934291 Islamic education teacher for elementary and intermediate stages. Experienced in Kuwait curricula. Easy explanation, and summary of the subject, training for exams.

66292985

34

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

stars CROSSWORD 575

STAR TRACK

CALVIN & HOBBES

Aries (March 21-April 19) You have an interest in the motivations and desires of friends and family and will do what you can to be included in the activities that will be happening this coming weekend. You will not have much trouble—others enjoy your company. This is an excellent time to get to know someone better.

However, this is also a time when you may spend an excessive amount of time in frustration over building up the funds. Consolidate your resources for future success.

Playing the game of chance, whether it is a card game or some other game of chance will find you with a great deal of luck on your side. You will be radiating with charisma this evening while socializing. There is continued happiness where matters of the heart are involved. Enjoy tonight.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) This is a good day to clean off your desk. Stick to the routine tasks and avoid starting something new for now. Mental endeavors are favored and you may find yourself technically involved in some problem-solving situation with a co-worker. Loved ones, children and other people are emphasized in your life this afternoon. A shopping trip with a young person may be in order. This could mean a pair of new shoes for each of you. There may be opportunities to join friends and have a meal together or be entertained later this evening. It is important to be around close friends and relatives. Confiding your true feelings to those you genuinely care about is a good idea during this time. You truly appreciate friends and family and will show them gratitude.

POOCH CAFE ACROSS 1. Situated at the top or highest position.

4. Italian brandy made from residue of grapes after pressing.

10. The syllable naming the first (tonic) note of any major scale in solmization.

13. A legal document codifying the result of deliberations of a committee or society or legislative body.

14. English novelist (born in Poland) noted for sea stories and for his narrative technique (1857-1924).

15. Any of various primates with short tails or no tail at all.

16. African mahogany trees.

18. A self-replicating protein molecule that occupies a fixed place on a chromosome.

19. Goddess of the dead and queen of the underworld.

20. United States tennis player who was the first Black to win United States and English singles championships (1943-1993).

21. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad.

23. Before noon.

25. Large ornamental tropical American tree with bipinnate leaves and globose clusters of flowers with crimson stamens and sweetpulp seed pods eaten by cattle.

27. A civil or military authority in Turkey or Egypt.

30. A decree that prohibits something.

34. A master's degree in business.

35. (informal) Informed about the latest trends.

37. Make less active or intense.

38. The capital and largest city of Yemen.

40. A body of poetry that conveys the traditions of a society by treating some epic theme.

43. (informal) Roused to anger.

44. English monk and scholar (672-735).

45. A constellation in the southern hemisphere near Telescopium and Norma.

46. A woman hired to suckle a child of someone else.

49. Panel forming the lower part of an interior wall when it is finished differently from the rest.

51. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables.

53. Directed or moving inward or toward a center.

58. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism.

59. Situated at an apex.

62. Tag the base runner to get him out.

63. Wild and domestic cattle.

64. Make a logical or causal connection.

65. One of the five major classes of immunoglobulins.

66. Used of a single unit or thing.

67. African tree having an exceedingly thick trunk and fruit that resembles a gourd and has an edible pulp called monkey bread.

68. An association of countries in the western hemisphere.

DOWN 1. The basic unit of money in Bangladesh.

2. United States newspaper publisher (1858-1935).

3. A major god.

4. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which the pilot is talked down by ground control using precision approach radar.

5. An artificial language for international use that rejects rejects all existing words and is based instead on an abstract analysis of ideas.

6. A Chadic language spoken in northern Nigeria and closely related to Hausa.

7. Manufactured in standard sizes to be shipped and assembled elsewhere.

8. A republic on the Isthmus of Panama.

9. A sweetened beverage of diluted fruit juice.

10. Tropical woody herb with showy yellow flowers and flat pods.

11. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for the sale of petroleum.

12. Goddess of the dead and queen of the underworld.

17. Not only so, but.

22. An associate degree in nursing.

24. A member of the Siouan people formerly living in the Missouri river valley in NE Nebraska.

26. Squash bugs.

28. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

29. Airtight sealed metal container for food or drink or paint etc..

31. A Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism.

32. Essential oil or perfume obtained from flowers.

33. Any of the Hindu sacred writing.

36. Having nine hinged bands of bony plates.

39. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

41. A tricycle (usually propelled by pedalling).

42. Dragonflies and damselflies.

43. A sweetened beverage of diluted fruit juice.

47. Any of numerous fruits of the gourd family having a hard rind and sweet juicy flesh.

48. Lower in esteem.

50. A heavy odorless colorless gas formed during respiration and by the decomposition of organic substances.

52. An aggressive remark directed at a person like a missile and intended to have a telling effect.

54. (pathology) An elevation of the skin filled with serous fluid.

55. Type genus of the family Unionidae.

56. Kamarupan languages spoken in northeastern India and western Burma.

57. A software system that facilitates the creation and maintenance and use of an electronic database.

60. Seed of a pea plant.

61. The United Nations agency concerned with the interests of labor.

62. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

Yesterday’s Solution

Gemini (May 21-June 20) The weather or some high expectations of this day may find you a bit stressed. This is a day that you can enjoy your creative side—anything is possible. Let go of those high expectations. This will be one of those feel-good-days. You feel good about your friends, you smooth ruffled feathers and a love relationship grows deeper. You are apt to spend a great deal of time communicating with neighbors later. Your sharp and alert mind is packed full of opinions and information that you are looking forward to sharing with everyone. Ideas come quickly.

Also, you are eager to take in all sorts of information from others which open up long conversations and a busy telephone. This should be a very electric day! You build good memories today.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

NON SEQUITUR

Energy and ego combine to help you attain your ambitions. Full speed ahead! You express a love of life that manifests itself in good cheer and generosity. While shopping later today, you have a feeling that with the right amount of persuasion, coupled with the necessary investment, you could make a wise purchase that would be a good financial investment. There is an aspect of good fortune. The power of attraction and desire for love is great, but you should exercise caution before entering a new relationship that may come about during this time.

Deep insight and the desire to help others in practical ways prevail this evening. Your giving nature endears you to loved ones. Tonight is a wonderful time to be with the young people in your life.

Leo (July 23-August 22) Today finds you undertaking the completion of any unfinished business. You may be working out of your home—with your own business. This is a good time to use the home for business matters. Perhaps you are thinking of taking on some additional business apart from your regular professional work. You are filled with energy that is best applied to increasing your financial worth.

Buying and selling, trading, exporting—all come under the energies for increasing your savings at this time. If you remain objective, you can channel your energy effectively and come out ahead. You are filled with optimism for success. There may be plans for a party or other type of social gathering this weekend—perhaps a family reunion. You enjoy preparing for the big day.

ZITS

Virgo (August 23-September 22) You may appear at-ease today. Everything seems to be working together and you may also find that you are enjoying the art of communication. A little extra energy is available to sort out any problems of the past. You are mentally ready to deal with whatever comes before you.

Later, social activities with friends will be extremely enjoyable. Be careful not to go overboard when celebrating some special event! It is, however, a good time to draw close to the people you care about and love. It is also a time signifying that intellectually-based friendships may be plentiful. Your thirst for freedom and excitement, while a definite boon to any relationship, should not completely dominate your decision-making process at this time.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM

A fascination with the mysterious may be reawakened within you. You go after any unsolved mystery or problem in the workplace with eagerness. Another kind of mystery that may attract you could be the deep-rooted feelings that cement your favorite relationship. Examination and analysis of this relationship could be very strengthening to the union. You may decide some similar interest in a hobby or volunteer organization will bring the two of you into a closer connection. Make it a point to talk about the things that make your heart sing . . . this will give you a hint into common activities you could suggest. You may spend a great deal of time, effort and worry balancing your friendships. You seek intellectual stimulation in your friends.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) Unexpected but positive news from a co-worker friend tips the financial scales in your direction today. Whatever feelings underscore your life will be felt more strongly now. If you are going through a particularly trying time, this period could produce low energy levels. If this is the case, take it easy for the next few days—your energy level is about to get better. A strong pull of the planets make this a good time to learn something new. You will also enjoy social and romantic activities. You truly desire fun and should not hesitate to get to know new people and form new acquaintances. Also, love is in full bloom and it’s a good time to fully demonstrate your depth of affection. Perhaps you could show appreciation to others by helping out with difficult chores.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You show a great deal of interest in whatever project is at hand in the workplace. Time and effort make the day move along at a fast pace. Later you work on a new budget for your family members or perhaps find ways to improve communication. This afternoon you may spend a great deal of time engaged in intellectual pursuits—Scrabble anyone? You feel a strengthening of your intuitive abilities and may have new ideas to talk about with a loved one. Your sense of humor is sharp and you want to have some fun. A party or some other social gathering can be enjoyed—perhaps in your own home. This evening is a good time to use the home as a vehicle for entertaining family members and friends in the social setting.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

To

Yesterday’s Solution

Yester

You are especially attentive when a co-worker friend or a department worker needs your help. You are willing to help instruct, direct or teach wherever you are needed. At home this afternoon, you have much energy to complete a pet project you may have been working on lately. The completion of this project may bring you an offer of either status or financial well-being. You also look for any excuse for a get-together to make new friends. You also may enjoy reminiscing with old friends about pleasant memories of the past. Your emotions are heightened, making you sympathetic and well disposed to loved ones. You feel especially close to your loved ones and your desire to nurture and protect them is strong. Plan a trip with a special someone.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) You will enjoy just about everything you do, whether work or play. It is just that kind of day. Most things will come easily. Have a party and just be you. This is the perfect time for imagination and creativity when it comes to ideas and thinking. This, coupled with the ability to put your thoughts into words, allows you to spellbind others. Go to that special someone and say that you love him or her; you will not be rebuffed. There is tremendous mental energy now— take care to avoid being temperamental. If you channel this energy, you can be very influential. There are indications that you are very artistic and should try your hand at some artistic endeavor. You impress people in positive ways through your communication. Why not try art as well?

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Word Sleuth Solution

Waiting for results, no matter what the subject matter, is rather trying. It does not matter whether you are waiting for a grade, a medical report or a positive response to some job interview . . . this day is about waiting. Time will pass before you know it, however, because you have a way of creating a positive transition for just about any occasion. You will attract positive support for most anything you want to accomplish now. Joint activities that take place at this time should be both well-attended and successful. Networking, when possible, may be a good idea and will help others to get to know your talents. Incredibly romantic feelings are fostered in you—intensifying your special love relationship. You will definitely feel the power of love today.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

i n f o r m at i o n

FIRE BRIGADE STATE ST TAT TE OF KUWAIT K KUW WAIT A

112

Tel.: T e el.: 161

DIRECTORA DIRECTORATE ATE T GENE GENERAL ERAL OF CIVIL A AVIATION V VIA ATION T DEPARTMENT METEOROLOGICAL DEP D PARTMENT A DAY: DA AY: Y T Tuesday uesday

WWW .MET.GOV V.KW . W WWW.MET.GOV.KW

31/01/2012

Ministry of Interior

Issue Time Time

07:00

Expected Weather Weather for the Next 24 4 Hours Partly cloudy to cloudy with moderate modeerate to fresh south easterly wind, w with speed of 25 - 45 km/h k with a chance for scattered scaattered rain that might be thundery thu undery at times

BY Y DA DAY: AY:

website: www.moi.gov.kw

with speed of 25 - 45 km/h with a chance Partly cloudy to cloudy with moderate modeerate to fresh south easterly wind, w k for scattered scaattered rain that might be thundery thu undery at times

NIGHT:: BY Y NIGHT

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128

No Current Warnings Warnin a gs

WARNING W ARNING A STATION ST TATION T

MAX. EXP EXP. P.

MIN.. REC.

KUWAIT KUW WAIT A CITY

18 °C

14 °C

24812000

KUWAIT AIRPORT KUW WAIT A AIRPOR RT

20 °C

09 °C

Amiri Hospital

22450005

NUWAISEEB NUW WAISEEB A

19 °C C

10 °C C

Maternity Hospital

24843100

WAFRA W AFRA A

20 °C

09 °C

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

SALMI

19 °C

11 11 °C

Chest Hospital

24849400

ABDALY ABDAL LY

22 °C

09 °C

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

ALIYAH JAL ALIY YA AH

20 °C

10 °C

Adan Hospital

23940620

FAILAKA F AILAKA A

19 °C

12 °C

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

PORT AHMADI POR RT

17 °C

13 °C

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

UMM AL-MARADEM M

18 °C

16 °C

Physiotherapy Hospital

24874330/9

WARBA BUBYAN W ARBA A A - BUBY YA AN

18 °C

09 °C

Hospitals Sabah Hospital

Ext.: 2627 262 27 - 2630

Fax: 24348714

Clinics

SFC. CHAR CHART T

31/01/2012 0000 0 UTC

4 DA DAYS AYS Y FORECAST

4732263

Roudha

22517733

DAY DA AY

DA DATE AT TE

WEA WEATHER ATHER T

Adhaliya

22517144

Wednesday e Wednesday

01/02

Khaldiya

24848075

Thursday

Keifan

24849807

Friday

Shamiya

24848913

Saturday

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salim

22549134

Fajr

05:17

MAX. Temp.

MA AX. T emp.

19 °C

Al-Nuzha

22526804

Sunrise S i

06 38 06:38

MIIN. IN Temp.

Temp.

MIN.

04 °C

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Zuhr

12:01

MAX. RH M

66 %

Asr

15:04

M RH MIN.

24 %

Al-Khadissiya

22515088

Sunset

17:25

MA AX. W ind MAX. Wind

S 25 km/h

Dasmah

22532265

Isha

18:44

TOT TAL AL RAI INF FA ALL L IN 24 HR. TOTAL RAINFALL

Bneid Al-Ghar

22531908

Al-Shaab

22518752

Al-Kibla

22459381

Ayoun Al-Kibla

22451082

Al-Mirqab

22456536

Sharq

22465401

Salmiya

25746401

Jabriya

25316254

Maidan Hawally

25623444

Bayan

25388462 25381200

W.Hawally

22630786

Sabah

24810221

Jahra

24770319

New Jahra

24575755

West Jahra

24772608

South Jahra

24775066

North Jahra

24775992

North Jleeb

24311795

Al-Ardhiya

24884079

Firdous

24892674

Al-Omariya

24719048

N.Kheitan

24710044

Fintas

3900322

22418714

Al-Shohada’a

22545171

Al-Shuwaikh

24810598

Al-Nuzha

22545171

Sabhan

24742838

Al-Helaly

22434853

Al-Fayhaa

22545051

Al-Farwaniya

24711433

Al-Sulaibikhat

24316983

Al-Fahaheel

23927002

Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh

24316983

Ahmadi

23980088

Al-Mangaf

23711183

Al-Shuaiba

23262845

Al-Jahra

25610011

Al-Salmiya

25616368

POLICE STATION

Rabiya

Mishref

Al-Madena

Temperratures Temperatures MAX.

MIN.

Wind Direction Direction Wind

Wind Wind Speed

unstable + scattered d rain

22 °C

10 °C

SE

25 - 50 km/h

02/02

raising clouds to disappear + ra aising dust

20 °C

09 °C

NW

25 - 50 km/h

03/02

dust cold + raising du ust

18 °C

05 °C

NW

25 - 50 km/h

04/02

cold

19 °C

04 °C

NW

20 - 40 km/h

PRAYER PR RA AYER Y TIMES

RECORDED D YESTERDAY YESTERDA AY AT AT KUWAIT KUW WAIT A T AIRPORT AIRPORT

unless All times are local time un nless otherwise stated.

Al-Madena Police Station Al-Murqab Police Station Al-Daiya Police Station Al-Fayha’a Police Station Al-Qadissiya Police Station Al-Nugra Police Station Al-Salmiya Police Station Al-Dasma Police Station

22434064 22435865 22544200 22547133 22515277 22616662 25714406 22530801

THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY FOR CIVIL INFORMATION Automated enquiry about the Civil ID card is 1889988

00 mm

31/01/12 03:20 UTC

V1.00

T1.06

PHARMACIES

AIRLINES

ON 24 HRS DUTY GOVERNORATE

PHARMACY

ADDRESS

PHONE

Ahmadi

Sama Safwan Abu Halaifa Danat Al-Sultan

Fahaeel Makka St Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd

23915883 23715414 23726558

Jahra

Modern Jahra Madina Munawara

Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 Jahra-Block 92

24575518 24566622

Capital

Ahlam Khaldiya Coop

Fahad Al-Salem St Khaldiya Coop

22436184 24833967

Farwaniya

New Shifa Ferdous Coop Modern Safwan

Farwaniya Block 40 Ferdous Coop Old Kheitan Block 11

24734000 24881201 24726638

Hawally

Tariq Hana Ikhlas Hawally & Rawdha Ghadeer Kindy Ibn Al-Nafis Mishrif Coop Salwa Coop

Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Salmiya-Amman St Hawally-Beirut St Hawally & Rawdha Coop Jabriya-Block 1A Jabriya-Block 3B Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Mishrif Coop Salwa Coop

25726265 25647075 22625999 22564549 25340559 25326554 25721264 25380581 25628241

Kuwait Airways Jazeera Airways Jet Airways FlyDubai Qatar Airways KLM Air Slovakia Olympic Airways Royal Jordanian Reservation British Airways Air France Emirates Air India Sri Lanka Airlines Egypt Air Swiss Air Saudia Middle East Airlines Lufthansa PIA Alitalia Balkan Airlines Bangladesh Airlines Czech Airlines Indian Airlines Oman Air Turkish Airlines Aeroflot

171 177 22924455 22414400 22423888 22425747 22434940 22420002/9 22418064/5/6 22433388 22425635 22430224 22921555 22438184 22424444 22421578 22421516 22426306 22423073 22422493 22421044 22414427 22416474 22452977/8 22417901/ 2433141 22456700 22958787 22453820/1 22404838/9

PRIVATE CLINICS Ophthalmologists Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor 25622444 Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea 25752222 Dr. Masoma Habeeb 25321171 Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy 25739999 Dr. Mohsen Abel 25757700 Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl 25732223 Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly 25732223 Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 General Practitioners Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Urologists Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi 22616660 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Dr. Leons Joseph 66703427 Psychologists /Psychotherapists

Paediatricians

Plastic Surgeons Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf

22547272

Dr. Khaled Hamadi

Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari

22617700

Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed

Dr. Abdel Quttainah

25625030/60

Family Doctor Dr Divya Damodar

23729596/23729581

Psychiatrists Dr. Esam Al-Ansari

22635047

Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan

INTERNATIONAL CALLS

22613623/0

Gynaecologists & Obstetricians DrAdrian arbe

23729596/23729581

Dr. Verginia s.Marin

2572-6666 ext 8321

Endocrinologist

25665898 25340300

Dr. Zahra Qabazard

25710444

Dr. Sohail Qamar

22621099

Dr. Snaa Maaroof

25713514

Dr. Pradip Gujare

23713100

Dr. Zacharias Mathew

24334282

(1) Ear, Nose and Throat (2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, FRCS (Canada)

25655535

Dentists

Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan

22655539

Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami

25343406

Dr. Shamah Al-Matar

22641071/2

Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly

25739272

Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed

22562226

22618787

Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer

22561444

Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan

22619557

Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash

22525888

Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan

25653755

Dr. Bader Al-Ansari

25620111

General Surgeons Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer

22610044

Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher

25327148

Internists, Chest & Heart Dr. Adnan Ebil Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan

22666300 25728004

Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra

25355515

Dr. Mobarak Aldoub

24726446

Dr Nasser Behbehani

25654300/3

Soor Center Tel: 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688

Neurologists

22639939

Dr. Mousa Khadada

info@soorcenter.com www.soorcenter.com

3729596/3729581

Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri

25633324

Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan

25345875

Gastrologists Dr. Sami Aman

22636464

Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly

25322030

Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali

22633135

Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, Ph.D. 2290-1677 Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg, M.A. 2290-1677

25339330

Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Physiotherapists & VD Dr. Deyaa Shehab

25722291

Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees

22666288

Rheumatologists: Dr. Adel Al-Awadi

Dr Anil Thomas

Dr. Salem soso

Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman

25330060

Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah

25722290

Internist, Chest & Heart DR.Mohammes Akkad

24555050 Ext 210

Dr. Mohammad Zubaid MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Assistant Professor Of Medicine Head, Division of Cardiology Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital Consultant Cardiologist Dr. Farida Al-Habib MD, PH.D, FACC Inaya German Medical Center Te: 2575077 Fax: 25723123

2611555-2622555

William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

lifest yle G o s s i p

inspired by Thompson to beat dyslexia eira Knightley overcame dyslexia by reading a screenplay by Emma Thompson. The 26-year-old actress suffers from the learning disability - which affects sufferers ability to read and when she was growing up it was having a negative impact on her studies. But young Keira idolized ‘Nanny McPhee’ star Emma and her mother Sharman MacDonald - who worked with Emma on the 1995 film ‘Sense and Sensibility’ - used her daughter’s adoration to inspire her to beat the condition. The ‘Atonement’ star was given a copy of the ‘Sense and Sensibility’ script by her playwright mum to try and read and told her giving up was not an option.

Keira revealed: “I’m a huge fan of Emma Thompson, huge! “I was am? - dyslexic and the way my mother got me over it was to say, ‘If Emma Thompson couldn’t read, she’d make sure she’d get over it.

So you have to start reading because that’s what Emma Thompson would do.’ “ The actress is one of Hollywood’s hottest young starlets and can next be seen in ‘A Dangerous Method’ - in which she plays a troubled patient and then student of psychoanalyst Carl Jung, who her character falls in love with. Despite her big screen

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success, Keira has to endure criticism - especially, she claims, in her native UK - and she admits the attacks against her work do get to her on occasions. In an interview with the March issue of Britain’s GQ magazine, she said: “The Americans are generally a lot more supportive. They generally like the work I do a lot more than they do here (in the UK). It is what it is, I suppose. It could just be that I’m not to a lot of people’s tastes which is fine. Well, it’s not, obviously. You want to be to everyone’s taste. But I think it’s better to do your own thing rather than try to please everyone and just be this mushy thing in the middle. Sometimes it’s like water off a duck’s back and sometimes it really hurts. Then you go away and cry for an hour or so, and then you pick yourself up again.”

Moore ‘devastated’ to lose ‘Lovelace’ role D

udges Nicole Scherzinger and Paula Abdul and host Steve Jones have all been axed from the US ‘X Factor’. Show boss Simon Cowell is said to be keen to “take the show in a different direction”, and has only guaranteed record producer LA Reid a place on the panel next year. A source told E! News: “At this point, the only ones staying are Simon and LA Reid. Simon wants to take the show in a different direction. The plan is to part ways amicably.” While a Fox spokesperson confirmed the departure of both Steve - whose presenting style on the show was slammed by one critic as “utterly irrelevant” - and Nicole, he could not comment on Paula’s rumored departure from the series.

However, the Welsh host took to twitter to express his disappointment at being given the chop from the singing contest after just one series. Steve tweeted: “I won’t be hosting next seasons XFactor which is a shame but I can’t complain as I’ve had a great time. Good luck to everyone on the show. (sic)” Meanwhile, Nicole is reportedly keen to leave the series so she can dedicate more time to her music career. The insider added: “She wants to focus on her music career. She’s spoken to Simon and he’s given her his blessing. “‘X Factor’ took a lot more of her time than she ever expected. She didn’t have any time really to work on her music.”

This isn’t the first time Simon Cowell has made sweeping changes to the US ‘X Factor’ panel. Last year, he axed Cheryl Cole from the show after just four rounds of auditions, claiming the British singer seemed “bewildered” in America. He said at the time: “She looked a bit bewildered. You come to a country like America, it’s a bit deal, takes a while to adjust. And I took the view, along with a few other people, that she would have been more comfortable back in the UK.”

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emi Moore was “devastated” to lose her role in ‘Lovelace’. The Hollywood actress who has been replaced by Sarah Jessica Parker in the role of feminist Gloria Steinem in the movie about real-life porn actress Linda Lovelace - is said to have cited a “personal crisis” as to why she pulled out of the movie appearance after being hospitalized last week. Heidi Jo Markel - who is producing the motion picture with Jim Young and Laura Rister - told People magazine: “It was a shock and a concern for all of us. “We got a call from [Moore’s representative] on Tuesday morning and said, ‘There’s been a personal crisis and we need to let you know that.’ And we were clueless. We had no idea what it entailed. We just knew she was out, that there was probably a health concern, and to move on.” Demi was rushed to the Sherman Oaks Hospital last Monday evening where she

was treated for exhaustion after suffering a seizure at a birthday party she was hosting at her home. But her director friend Patty Jenkins says the brunette beauty - who is in the process of divorcing her husband Ashton Kutcher - is now recovering. She explained: “I just saw her and she’s doing great. I think she’s doing much better than it’s made out to be. “Demi is awesome and so strong. I also hate when people make it a bigger drama than what is going on.

She’s great.”

om Cruise’s daughter Isabella is reportedly set to get engaged to her boyfriend Eddie Frencher. The couple only made their first official public appearance at the 17th birthday party of Isabella’s brother Connor in Los Angeles earlier last month but insiders say they have already discussed marriage and both Tom and Isabella’s mother Nicole Kidman are thrilled. A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: “Eddie and Bella have been dating for some time but have deliberately kept their romance under wraps. The couple decided to go public at [her brother] Connor’s birthday party recently because Eddie and Bella have discussed marriage. “Tom and Nicole think Eddie is a great kid, and couldn’t be happier. The fact that he is a Scientologist is obviously a boon, too - they’ll be Scientology royalty. “They won’t be getting married anytime soon, but they are getting pretty serious, very quickly.”

Budding artist Isabella further fuelled speculation the couple are getting serious when she posted a picture of an engagement ring on her twitter page with the comment “I adore this! #yesplease (sic)” She has since removed the posting. Tom and Nicole adopted Isabella in 1992 and Connor in 1995 before splitting up in 2001.

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emi Lovato is not confident enough to appear on TV again.

The former ‘Sonny with a Chance’ star is taking a break from acting after admitting her battles with self-harming and an eating disorder, and she doesn’t feel ready to be on camera again yet. She told Britain’s Glamour magazine: “Right now I don’t need to get in front of a TV camera which adds 10 pounds and makes you feel more self-conscious about your body image. Being on camera makes me nervous. It takes a level of confidence and security which I’m still working on.

“When I’m ready I’ll find the right role and get back into it, but for now I’m being cautious. “I’m walking with my head held high, but I nev-

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ennifer Lopez doesn’t know whether she could ever get married again. The 42-year-old singer-and-actress - who has wed on three occasions and split from estranged husband Marc Anthony last year - is unsure whether she will ever tie the knot with new boyfriend Casper Smart, 24, in the future but she is not considering it at the moment. When asked on the ‘Today’ show if another marriage is a possibility, Jennifer - who has come under fire for dating a man 18 years her junior - replied: “I don’t know. I don’t know. I don’t know. We’ll see. I mean, I don’t know. It’s not time to think about that yet. It’s still fresh.” Despite splitting with Marc - who she has three-year-old twins Max and Emme with - the ‘On The Floor’ hitmaker revealed there is “real love” when they are working together on T V show ‘?Q’ Viva! The Chosen’, and she knows he will “always” be a part of her life. The brunette beauty - who was previously married to Cris Judd from 2001-2003 and Ojani Noa from 1997-1998 - added: “ There is real love there.

“Marc and I were friends before we got married.

We were friends for years, and we always loved each other. “And, obviously, we have children together, so it’s not going to be like he’s not in my life. He’s always going to be in my life.”

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er forget that I’m a work in progress.” Demi was admitted to rehab for her issues in 2010, and her time in therapy was intense, with her undergoing sessions lasting for over half a day at a time. She explained: “I had 14 hours of therapy every day, so I definitely learned a lot about myself. For the first 48 hours I wasn’t allowed any communication with my friends or family, a lot of people give up and check themselves out, but I made it and I’m proud of myself.” Since rehab, Demi has been concentrating on her pop career, releasing her third album ‘Unbroken’ last September. — Bang Showbiz

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 2012

lifestyle T r a v e l

An interior view of a household goods shop in Shoreditch in east London. — AP photos

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t was called “outcast London” for its squalid slums in Victorian times, has the dubious reputation as the haunt of Jack the Ripper, and one of Britain’s most polluted rivers runs through its long-derelict shipyards and warehouses. It’s no wonder that for a long time, east London has been all but ignored by tourists who stick to the West End, the home of blockbuster musicals, royal palaces, Harrods and Oxford Street.

This year, those prejudices are likely to change as the Olympics inject huge investments into changing the face of the East End. Massive redevelopment works in the area have already given it a dramatic makeover. In Stratford, a former marsh and one of the city’s poorest areas, a pristine Olympic Stadium, a gigantic new shopping mall and upgraded train links are already in place. In less than six months’ time there will be cycle paths, green spaces, and cleaned up riverbanks.

File photo shows a man being served at a food stall on Brick Lane in east London.

All that will bring new interest to a part of London that, though long neglected, has recently become recognized for growing its own elite fashion, arts and high-tech business communities. And so, if Brick Lane is the farthest east you have ever ventured, now is the time to visit the city’s fastest-changing corner - you will be pleasantly surprised.

What’s to see? Start from Brick Lane, but perhaps skip some of the famous but overpriced curry houses. Instead, wander northeast up to the Shoreditch and Dalston areas for their weekend markets, vibrant nightlife, diverse ethnic cuisine and trendy vintage shops.

The area’s lower rents have long attracted young artists and musicians - although in recent years gentrification has hiked property prices, drawn in celebrities and hipsters, and pushed struggling artists to seek out warehouse spaces still farther east.

Even so, there is still a bohemian, appealingly scruffy vibe about the place. Unlike in the West End, development in the east has been uneven and spontaneous. A couple of cutting-edge boutiques would turn an unassuming side street quite suddenly into the city’s trendiest spot, and high-concept art spaces often sit right next to fried chicken takeaways and dollar stores.

The Olympic Games will definitely bring new tourist traffic to the neighborhood - though many locals weren’t sure if they liked the idea. “Don’t care about it,” Speedie Gazelle said of the Olympics.

Gazelle, who owns a small shop selling what he calls “retro kitsch,” wants his area to stay “fashionable, but not touristy,” like New York’s Lower East Side in the mid-90s. One of the biggest obstacles to visiting the east used to be the lack of easy public transport connections to central London.

That’s not a problem anymore: Along with improvements to the rundown Tube stations and creaky trains all over London, authorities have installed brand-new, comfortable trains that now connect the city center with communities in the East End, with nine transport lines feeding into Stratford, the Olympic hub.

A woman walks her dog past curry restaurants.

A high-speed train, called the Javelin Shuttle, will link Stratford with St. Pancras, the renovated Eurostar terminal.

East London’s canals, long notorious for their murky, shallow waters and all-around shabbiness, will also be cleaned up. The backbone of London’s commercial activity before the railways took over, these overlooked waterways used to be a magnet for rubbish and muggers. With the Olympics, though, they - along with the polluted River Lea, right next to the Stadium - will be in the spotlight.

Officials want spectators to walk or cycle to the games site, and the towpaths along the waterways, snaking from the west to east along Victoria Park, are ideal.

A mass volunteer campaign is under way to engage Londoners to tidy up the network, hopefully finishing by July. One charity, Thames21, is trying to recruit 4,000 volunteers, many of them school children, to pick up the litter, remove weeds, and plant flowers to beautify the canals. That’s a work in progress, just like the Olympic Park itself - an impressive sight worth making a trip for, even though it still resembles a giant gray puddle studded with some gleaming, empty new buildings. In a few months, it will transform into what officials called the largest new urban park that Europe has seen in 150 years, a haven complete with “broad sweeping lawns” and wildlife habitats for birds and bees.

For the local residents, all this is just the beginning of an ambitious regeneration plan - and many years of disruption. According to planners, the Olympic building project is expected to continue to deliver thousands of new homes and jobs in the next 25 years.

No one is sure whether the so-called “Olympic legacy” will develop smoothly. Worriers say that Stratford could easily become another Canary Wharf - the affluent skyscraper-studded redevelopment, also in the East End, that’s sometimes criticized for its indifference to the poverty in its surrounding community.

In the meantime, one building project has certainly brought more revenue to Stratford. Right across from the games site is the Westfield Stratford City mall, a glossy retail palace said to be the biggest in Europe with 300 shops, a casino and its own faux “streets.”

Rising incongruously from a neighborhood of drab brown streets, it has been packed with visitors ever since it opened in October.

For some, it’s a tasteless monstrosity, blaring pop music from every corner and flashing dazzling images from multiple giant screens. But for many young locals who have long looked enviously at the West End’s shopping conveniences, it’s a godsend. “This place used to be so malnourished,” said Cicero Fernando, a 29-year-old trainee doctor walking home with groceries from the mall’s upmarket Waitrose food store. “Thank goodness I can now shop in my favorite stores.” That can only be a good sign for the future of east London, he said. “To be honest the West End is still the attraction, but this is a good start,” Fernando said. “It’s getting there.”— AP

People walk by curry restaurants and shops on Brick Lane.

Photo shows a general view from a rest stand of buildings in Shoreditch.

People play a game of chess on Brick Lane in east London.

Shoes are seen on display for sale at the Brick Lane street market.

A man plays a piano in a shop on Brick Lane in east London.

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Visitors look at a ballet shoe shaped coffin commissioned by ballet fan Pat Cox, during the ‘Death - Festival for the Living’ exhibit, at the Royal Festival Hall in London, on January 28, 2012.

Crazy Coffins, an offshoot of a Nottingham-based traditional coffin and urn maker which took on a new identity in the 1990s when people began asking to customize their final resting places, presents uncanny coffins as part of the exhibit. — AFP

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ussian ballet stars once defected to the West in search of artistic freedom. These days, western dancers are lured east by the iron discipline of a Russian ballet education. Around 100 foreigners from all over the world are enrolled at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, formally known as the Moscow State Academy of Choreography. Founded

by Empress Catherine the Great, the school produced Soviet legends Olga Lepeshinskaya and Maya Plisetskaya as well as contemporary stars such as Natalia Osipova and Nikolai Tsiskaridze. Here’s a name to add to the list: Joy Womack, a 17-year-old dancer who is to become the first American to graduate from the academy’s Russian course this spring. “The technique and the artistry and the passion is something that is worth moving thousands of miles away,” said Womack, who grew up in California and Texas.

“It is the oldest and most famous school for ballet and the traditions are kept so well here.” At age 15, the dancer came to Moscow for a routine of 12- to 14-hour days of dance practice, acting classes and rehearsals - all in Russian, a language she barely knew when she arrived. “The teaching style here at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy is very different from the United States. Here what is very special is that each teacher has their own style, their own way of teaching and getting results out of the students,” she said, clad in black leotard and tights after practice. “Sometimes, it can be painful, sometimes it can be very emotional, but I think that it brings the best results, especially because their attention to detail is so precise.” The first year brought tough moments.

At a gala performance, she danced through the pain of an injured foot which later needed surgery. On top of the stresses of living abroad and learning a foreign language, she faced rivalry from other students when she was awarded soloist roles. The payoff came when Womack performed the lead in La Fille Mal Gardee (The Wayward Girl), on the Bolshoi’s smaller New Stage last November - a rare honor for a 17-year old foreigner.

Stepping out on the sloping stage with her, in the leading role of Colas, was 21-year old Californian Mario Vitale Labrador, who is also following the Russian course at the academy. “(It’s) very nerve-wracking when you first come to the Bolshoi because it has such a history,” he said. Nerves are only part of it.

Moving to the Bolshoi Ballet Academy has been a physical challenge, he said. His training went from “a hobby after school” three days a week to the “hardcore” six-day week of the Bolshoi. “There is no slack and you are not allowed to be lazy. Even if you have injuries, you have to work through it,” he said. “You are finding your body achieving things that you never thought you could achieve.”

Academy director Marina Leonova, a graduate and a former Bolshoi soloist, who wears her blonde hair in a neat bun, said the school preserves its classical traditions.

“There is a whole system of education which has been handed down from generation to generation from the best to the best. And we invest this in our children,” she said. The key to the school’s success? “No secrets here: it’s hard work, daily work.”

Picking up a microphone, Leonova instructed and corrected her students during a rehearsal of the commedia dell’arte-inspired ballet Harlequinade-”a little late,” “longer legs!” she said over a sonorous opera score.—Reuters

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File photo shows Uggie the Dog from ‘The Artist’ posing in the press room during the 69th Annual Golden Globe Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California. — AFP

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cute, trick-performing Jack Russell versus a snarling, orphan-chasing Doberman-a potentially ugly Oscars dog fight is squaring up on Hollywood’s red carpet. Even as Tinseltown’s A-listers vie for Academy Award glory, a contest for the canine equivalent-the Golden Collar-which seemed sewn up, has been ripped wide open. And by Martin Scorsese, no less. The clear frontrunner has long been Uggie, the hero of silent movie “The Artist,” which is snapping at Scorsese’s heels with 10 nominations against 11 nods for “Hugo” at the February 26 Oscars show. To add to Uggie’s aaah-factor, his owners announced last week that the 10-year-old dog is retiring after his turn in “The Artist,” in which the four-legged friend notably saves his master’s life from a fire.

rotesters mass in the streets of Poland’s Baltic port city of Gdansk, hurling Molotov cocktails at security forces as a tank advances-and the cameras roll. Looking on is celebrated Polish director Andrzej Wajda, 85, whose latest film is a biopic about Lech Walesa, the communistera Solidarity opposition leader who left an indelible mark on world history by helping bring down the Iron Curtain. “I’m playing the role of a resident of Gdansk. I have to run as the cops and the ZOMO riot squad charge into the crowd,” said Anna Warmiak, one of some 200 extras on this shoot in mid-January.

Walesa, played by Polish actor Robert Wieckiewicz, 45, steps into a clash between security forces and anti-communist protesters. The scene in the film-entitled simply “Walesa”-recounts a pivotal moment on the future Nobel Peace laureate’s road to renown a decade later. In December 1970, the young electrician saw the communist regime crush a revolt by his fellow workers at the Gdansk shipyard. “He learned a key lesson. The birth of Solidarity in 1980 proves that. Peaceful protest was better. It brought much more than the workers’ uprising which ended in bloodshed,” Wajda told AFP. His film is a first for the Polish industry which has never before produced a movie about the country’s anti-communist icon, now aged 68.

“We’re trying to get as close as we can to the reality of the era,” said the director who won an honorary Oscar in 2000 for lifetime achievement. Walesa is a friend of Wajda, and says he is looking forward to the film’s release in October. The actors playing the police-or militia, as they were known in the communist era-wear actual uniforms from the period. And their vehicles include a Warszawa, a car that was the jewel in the crown of Poland’s communist auto industry.

for each period of his life, as the film spans two decades,” said make-up chief Waldemar Pokromski. Founded during a shipyard strike in 1980, Solidarity won grudging recognition from the regime, a watershed for an independent trade union in Soviet bloc nations. But it rapidly snowballed into a broader opposition movement drawing in one Pole in four, and in December 1981 the regime imposed martial law to end the challenge.

The union stayed alive underground.

Walesa won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1983 for his non-violent opposition. Solidarity returned to the limelight in 1989, negotiating an election deal with the authorities and scoring a victory that summer which brought down the regime peacefully and sped the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. In 1990, Walesa became Poland’s first democratically elected president since World War II, serving one five-year term.

He remains a respected democracy campaigner and has lent his know-how to Arab Spring activists. Scripted by Polish author

Janusz Glowacki, who has said he aimed to paint a warts-and-all portrait, “Walesa” runs from 1970 until the fall of the regime. Some scenes are combined with period footage.

“The latter makes up around 10 percent of the film,” said producer Michal Kwiecinski, noting that Wieckiewcz’s face will be superimposed on Walesa’s in the archive material.

Over a 55-year career, Wajda has made dozens of films and is a three-time Oscar nominee: in 1976 for “The Promised Land”, 1979 for “The Maids of Wilko” and 1982 for “Man of Iron”. The latter film touched on the birth of Solidarity and Walesa had a bit-part, playing himself. About his friend’s new biopic, Walesa has said: “I want to learn the truth... without putting anyone under pressure or taking part in the film myself. I’ll find out just to what extent I was understood by this great man, Wajda, and his crew.” — AFP

Five moustaches Perhaps the most telling nod to the era is Wieckiewicz’s trademark Walesa moustache, which evolves over time. “We’ve got five different Lech Walesa moustaches, one

Actors take part in a scene re-enactement in the streets of Gdansk for a movie dedicated to the story of electrician and ‘Solidarity’ union leader Lech Walesa who struggled for a democratic, independent Poland, on January 14, 2011. — AFP photos

Polish film director Andrzej Wajda talks with journalists in the streets of Gdansk during the shooting of a movie.

Martin Scorsese, left, talks to the audience with Leonard Maltin at the Arlington Theater on Monday night. — AP But “Goodfellas” director Scorsese-no stranger to intimidation and graphic violence-has weighed in demanding that Blackie the Doberman from his top Oscar-nominated film “Hugo” be included as a lastminute nominee. The snarling Blackie belongs to the station inspector, played by “Borat” star Sacha Baron Cohen, who chases parent-less children to be sent to an orphanage in “Hugo,” set in Paris. Scorsese admits that, while Blackie would win paws-down in a fight, he may have problems winning sympathy against the cute dog from French-directed “The Artist,” a tribute to the silent movie era. “I have been cautioned against speaking out on this issue lest I create the appearance of churlishness. Well, I’m going to have to risk it,” Scorsese wrote in an open letter to the Los Angeles Times newspaper.

“One recent morning, I turned on the television, and imagine my surprise when I heard the nominations for the first Golden Collar Awards for Best Dog in a Theatrical Film. “After all, we had Blackie the Doberman in our movie. How could she not be nominated? I listened in vain for Blackie’s name to be called, and then to all the hullabaloo over a certain Jack Russell terrier named Uggie.” Actually, he admitted: “Uggie is so adorable that he received two nominations for two separate pictures. Well done.”

But he continued: “OK, let’s lay all our cards on the table. Jack Russell terriers are small and cute.

Dobermans are enormous and-handsome. “More tellingly, Uggie plays a nice little mascot who does tricks and saves his master’s life in one of the films, while Blackie gives an uncompromising performance as a ferocious guard dog who terrorizes children. “I’m sure you can see what I’m driving at.” Layering on the irony, he added: “I detect another, more deep-seated prejudice at work. Jack Russell terriers were bred in the 19th century for the purposes of fox hunting by an Englishman, the Reverend John Russell. “Dobermans were bred by a German tax collector who was afraid of being bludgeoned to death by the citizenry. But does that mean we must condemn the entire breed?”

He concluded: “In short, I protest the omission of Blackie the Doberman from the first Golden Collar nominations. Moreover, I encourage all Times readers to make their preference known to the editors of Dog News Daily by write-in ballot and give Blackie the nomination she so richly deserves.” Responding to the letter, Dog News Daily editors said they would accept Blackie’s nomination if 500 people backed the “Hugo” star by “liking” the canine-loving website’s Facebook page. And late Monday, the website hailed the write-in campaign as a “golden success,” saying Blackie had been nominated after hundreds of people had posted “I nominate Blackie” or the equivalent on the Facebook page.—AFP

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amilla Williams, the first black woman to perform with a major US opera company who became both a cultural ambassador and civil rights activist, has died at the age of 92, officials said Monday. “I can confirm that she died at home of complications from cancer,” Alan Barker, a spokesman for Indiana University ’s Jacobs School of Music where Williams taught for 20 years, told AFP. Born in a small town in the segregated southern state of Virginia, Williams began her singing career at church and was introduced to the classical repertoire at the age of 12 when a Welsh voice teacher came to Danville.

show The Music America Loves best in 1944 and as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra. She made her legendary debut with New York City Opera in the title role of Madama Butterfly in 1946 and was hailed by the New York Times as an instant success who had a “vividness and subtlety unmatched by any other artist who has assayed the part here in many a year.”

Williams began a distinguished international career in 1950, the same year she married Charles Beavers, an eminent civil rights lawyer who once represented Malcolm X. She sang at the 1963 March on Washington just before Dr Martin Luther King Jr gave his monumental “I Have a Dream” speech and again when he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize a year later. Williams also became a frequent cultural ambassador, invited by President Dwight Eisenhower to perform for the Crown Prince of Japan in 1960 and embarking on tours of Africa, Asia and Europe at the request of the State Department.

She retired from the stage in 1971 and became a professor of voice at Brooklyn College. She joined Indiana University in 1977 and taught there until 1997. Details of a memorial service for Williams, who died Sunday, have not yet been announced. — AFP

“T

he Grey,” a Liam Neeson drama about plane crash survivors fending off hungry wolves, took $19.7 million to lead the pack at the North American box office on its debut weekend, data showed Monday. The Alaska-set adventure thriller bumped “Underworld 4: Awakening,” the latest take in the series about the exploits of a woman vampire warrior, into second spot. The 3D flick starring Kate Beckinsale pulled in $12.4 million, industry tracker Exhibitor Relations said.

“One for the Money” chalked up $11.5 million in its premiere weekend.

The comedy starring Katherine Heigl topped fourth place “Red Tails,” which recounts the World War II deeds of black Tuskegee Airmen pilots, with $10.4 million. Thriller “Man on a Ledge” was in fifth, netting $8 million on its first weekend, trailed by “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close,” the Tom

Hanks-Sandra Bullock story of a family impacted by the 9/11 attacks, with $7 million.

Mark Wahlberg’s crime drama “Contraband” was in seventh spot with $6.7. “The Descendants” took eighth spot with $6.4 million. The George Clooney family drama was enjoying a surge in ticket sales in its 11th week in theaters after it was nominated for best picture, best director and best actor Oscars. Rounding out the top 10 were “Beauty And The Beast” in 3D ($5.3 million) and action flick “Haywire” ($4.0 million), the figures showed. — AFP

Camilla Williams “All my people sing. We were poor, but God blessed us with music,” Williams once said. She supported herself by working as an usher while taking voice lessons in Philadelphia and landed work on RCA’s national radio

Bollywood personalities Tushar Kapoor, director Milan Luthria, actress Vidya Balan and producer Ekta Kapoor pose during the DVD release event of the Hindi film ‘The Dirty Picture’ in Mumbai on Monday. — AFP

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Fur flies as Scorsese seeks Oscars dog collar

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Revelers pose during the Venezuela Expo Tattoo 2012 in Caracas, on January 28, 2012. Over 200 tattoo artists from countries such as Venezuela, Argentina and Mexico set out in Caracas this art, which also uses implants in the face and cuts in the skin. —AFP

Beckham named ‘Sexiest Man on the Planet’ D

avid Beckham has been crowned “ The Sexiest Man on the Planet 2012”. The soccer superstar has been awarded the title in heat magazine’s inaugural 101 Hottest Hunks in the World list 2012. David - who raises four children, Brooklyn, Romeo, Cruz and Harper, with his wife Victoria Beckham - beat a host of famous hunks to the top spot, including Ryan Gosling, Ryan Reynolds and Bradley Cooper, who came second, third and fourth respectively. Speaking about David’s victory, heat editor Lucie Cave said: “heat is known for showcasing the hottest celebrity men each week, but this is the first time we’ve compiled a definitive list of the sexiest men in the world. Our readers and panel of experts clearly have impeccable taste as there is genuinely no one more deserving of the title Sexiest Man on the Planet 2012 than David Beckham.

He’s got the lot - talent, style, sex appeal, charisma. Women adore him, men want to be him, and we’re absolutely thrilled that he has topped our

poll.” Other heartthrobs to make the top 10 include Robert Pattinson, Tom Hardy, Johnny Depp and Zac Efron. The top 25 was compiled by counting the online votes of 1,000 heat readers and the choices of an expert panel comprised of Premier Models founder Carole White, celebrity photographer Nicky Johnston; and Heat Style Editor Jo Hoare.

Each guy was judged on talent, sex appeal, dress sense, and personality. The results from 26-101 are based solely upon the votes cast on the survey on www.heatworld.com. The full list will appear in this week’s issue of heat on sale yesterday.

Heat magazine’s 101 Hottest Hunks 2012, top 25: 1 David Beckham 2 Ryan Gosling 3 Ryan Reynolds 4 Bradley Cooper 5 Jake Gyllenhaal 6 Robert Pattinson

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Tom Hardy Johnny Depp Hugh Jackman Zac Efron George Clooney Harry Judd Gary Barlow Adam Levine Gerard Butler James Franco Taylor Lautner Harry Styles Brad Pitt Orlando Bloom Justin Timberlake Olly Murs Ian Somerhalder Michael Fassbender Tinie Tempah — Bang Showbiz

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l Ostoura, Kuwait’s leading luxury fashion retailer takes great pleasure in announcing the opening of the first Alexander McQueen boutique in Kuwait. The new shop is located on the ground floor at the Al Thuraya Complex, one of the most prestigious shopping venues. Al Ostoura is dedicating this boutique exclusively to the Alexander McQueen collection for women offering signature Alexander McQueen tailored separates, cocktail dresses and evening gowns.

The design of the store follows the concept conceived by Lee Alexander McQueen and the architect William Russell where a traditional store format is re-invented. The overall feel is

David Beckham

that of a softly lit organic space where all straight lines have been removed and where each area merges into the next.

Jonathan Akeroyd, President and CEO of Alexander McQueen says, “We have had a positive and rewarding working relationship with Al Ostoura already and I am delighted to develop this by bringing the first stand alone Alexander McQueen store to Kuwait.” Days leading up to the opening, Al Ostoura’s management has expressed their excitement about the new Alexander McQueen boutique opening and has vowed to keep offering their customers the latest in the world of fashion.

Al Ostoura has been recognized for being an

avant-garde fashion retailer in Kuwait since 1985. With more than 40 Monobrand and Multibrand boutiques spread throughout Kuwait, the company has grown to become one of the biggest fashion retailers in the country covering all market segments. The company’s pioneering reputation for promoting world renowned fashion designers has brought it much respect for its retailing vision from the fashion industry around the world.