28 Aug 2013

CR IP TI ON BS SU

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

Brotherhood leader denies ‘terror’ claims

US heat wave prompts early school dismissals

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Wildfire rages on, threatens San Francisco water

Arsenal in CL for 16th straight year

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‘Ready to hit’

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SHAWWAL 21, 1434 AH

West powers could attack Syria ‘in days’

Max 45º Min 31º High Tide 03:48 & 17:31 Low Tide 11:01 & 22:52

AMMAN: Western powers could attack Syria within days, envoys from the United States and its allies have told rebels fighting President Bashar Al-Assad, sources who attended the meeting said yesterday. US forces in the region are “ready to go”, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said, as Washington and its European and Middle Eastern partners honed plans to punish Assad for a major poison gas attack last week that killed hundreds of civilians.

Several sources who attended a meeting in Istanbul on Monday between Syrian opposition leaders and diplomats from Washington and other governments said that the rebels were told to expect military action and to get ready to negotiate a peace. “The opposition was told in clear terms that action to deter further use of chemical weapons by the Assad regime could come as early as in the next few days, and that they should still prepare for peace talks at Geneva,” one of the sources said.

Ahmad Jarba, president of the Syrian National Coalition, met envoys from 11 states in the Friends of Syria group, including Robert Ford, the US ambassador to Syria, at an Istanbul hotel. United Nations chemical weapons investigators, who finally crossed the frontline to take samples on Monday, put off a second trip to rebel-held suburbs of Damascus. Washington said it already held Assad responsible for a “moral obscenity” and President Barack Obama would hold him to account for it.

However, with Russian and Chinese opposition complicating efforts to satisfy international law - and Western voters wary of new, far-off wars - Western leaders may not pull the trigger just yet. British Prime Minister David Cameron called parliament back from its summer recess for a session on Syria tomorrow. He and Obama, as well as French President Francois Hollande, face tough questions about how an intervention, likely to be limited to air strikes, will end - and whether they risk handing power to anti-Western Islamist rebels if Assad is overthrown.

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AT SEA: A picture released by the US Navy shows aircrafts assigned to Carrier Air Wing 7 fly in formation above the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D Eisenhower (CVN 69) in the Mediterranean Sea. US forces are ‘ready to go’ if called on to strike the Syrian regime, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told the BBC yesterday. (Inset) Russian air defense missile system Buk-M2 is on display at the opening of the MAKS Air Show in Zhukovsky outside Moscow yesterday. Russia has supplied similar missiles to Syria. — Agencies

Govts seek Facebook info Qatar confirms new MERS case

DEIR EZZOR: A general view shows a heavily damaged street in Syria’s eastern town of Deir Ezzor. — AFP

Kuwaiti student in Australia faces trial

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DOHA: Health authorities in Qatar announced the second confirmed case in a week of the MERS coronavirus in the Gulf state, with a 29-year-old man infected and in intensive care. The Qatari patient suffers from asthma and has been in contact with another patient infected with MERS. He is “in a critical condition and is under intensive care,” the Supreme Health Council said in a statement late Monday.

On August 20, the authorities announced the first infection in the Gulf state of a 59-year-old Qatari.

Another Qatari national with the infection died in a London hospital on June 28. The virus has killed 47 people worldwide since September, 41 of them in Saudi Arabia which neighbors Qatar. MERS is considered a cousin of the SARS virus that erupted in Asia in 2003 and infected 8,273 people, nine percent of whom died.

Like SARS, it is thought to have jumped from animals to humans, and shares the former’s flu-like symptoms-but differs by causing kidney failure.

Researchers have pointed to the Arabian camel, or dromedary, as a possible host of the virus. Scientists studying the new virus have found older patients, men and people with underlying medical conditions are those particularly at risk. — AFP

SAN FRANCISCO: Governments sought information on over 38,000 Facebook users in the first half of 2013 and the No 1 social network complied with most requests, the firm said in its first report on the scale of data inquiries it gets from countries around the world. The report follows allegations by former intelligence contractor Edward Snowden that practically every major Internet company including Facebook, Google Inc and Microsoft Corp - routinely hands over troves of data on potentially millions of users to national intelligence agencies.

Facebook has more than 1 billion users worldwide. US law enforcement authorities were by far the most active in mining Facebook, seeking information on about 20,000 to 21,000 users between January and June. That represents a slight rise from the six months between June and December 2012, when US agencies requested information on roughly 18,000 to 19,000 Facebook accounts, according to figures previously released by the company.

India rupee sinks as Asian stocks plunge

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Boy’s eyes gouged out in gruesome attack

Al-Qaeda rebuffs US ‘propaganda’ AQAP denies plots DUBAI: Al-Qaeda in Yemen has denied US allegations it is plotting massive attacks that prompted the closure of Western missions in the country this month, in a statement posted online. The extremist network also denied reports confirmed by Yemen’s President Abdrabuh Mansur Hadi that US intelligence services had intercepted a conversation between Al-Qaeda chief Ayman Al-Zawahiri and Nasser Al-Wuhayshi, head of the Yemen-based Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula.

“Hadi repeated the nonsense and propaganda published by US intelligence on telephone calls between jihadist leaders to justify the US plot to kill Muslims in Yemen through continued raids,” AQAP said in the statement posted on jihadist Internet forums.

Hadi had “claimed the jihadists were plotting to target oil terminals in the country using bomb-laden trucks,” said AQAP. “We deny what he said and regard it as an attempt to justify US criminal practices.

Continued on Page 15

Facebook has at least partially complied to about 80 percent of those requests, the company acknowledged yesterday. Authorities in other countries with large Facebook user bases, including India, the United Kingdom and Germany, also requested information on thousands of users. Facebook, which disclosed the figures in its first “Global Government Requests Report,” said it individually scrutinized every information request and required governments to meet a “very high legal bar” to receive user data.

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TAIYUAN: A boy lies on his hospital bed with his eyes covered with bandages in a hospital in Taiyuan, north China’s Shanxi province yesterday. — AFP

BEIJING: A six-year-old boy in China had his eyes gouged out, blinding him for life, reports said yesterday, in a gruesome attack that may have been carried out by a ruthless organ trafficker. Family members found the boy covered in blood some three to four hours after he went missing while playing outside, according to a television report posted online.

The child’s eyes were found nearby but the corneas were missing, reports said, implying that an organ trafficker was behind the harrowing attack. Police offered a 100,000 yuan ($16,000) reward for information leading to the arrest of the sole suspect, who they said was a woman. “He had blood all over his face. His eyelids were turned inside out. And inside, his eyeballs were not there,” his father told Shanxi Television.

Its report showed the heavily-bandaged boy being taken from an operating theatre and placed in a hospital bed, writhing in agony as family members stood at his bedside weeping. The boy was drugged and “lost consciousness” before the attacker removed his eyes, state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) said on its account on Sina Weibo, China’s version of Twitter.

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

LOCAL

News

in brief

Commercial licenses KUWAIT: Informed sources said the Cabinet will ask for quick amendments to the commerce ministry’s law to allow employees to obtain commercial licenses to practice any commercial activity in addition to fighting monopoly to supply food stuff, and consumer goods apart from industrial and construction activities.

Media cooperation KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Minister State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud Al-Sabah yesterday, met separately with Kuwaiti Ambassadors to Brazil and Germany, Eyada Al-Saeedi and Munthir AlEssa respectively, discussing with them means to boost coordination between the Ministry of Information and their embassies. A statement by the ministry said that Sheikh Salman also discussed with the diplomats means to bolster ties with both Brazil and Germany especially within the media domain. He stressed that the ministry was keen on exchanging expertize and visits between Kuwait and the two friendly nations which in turn would boost ties and also develop media in the country.

KUWAIT: Dr Nayef Al-Hajraf, the minister of education and higher education, yesterday toured a number of Mubarak Al-Kabeer educational area schools to check their preparations for the new school year set to begin soon. —- Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

MPs seek body to handle emergency, manage crises Syria military strike repercussions KUWAIT: Amid reports about a looming military strike against the Syrian regime, lawmakers in Kuwait demanded answers from the government regarding preparations for potential repercussions and to handle cases of emergency. Al-Rai reported yesterday that MP Dr Abdullah Al-Turaiji and others submitted a draft to the parliament’s secretariat yesterday requesting for the establishment of a national authority to handle emergency and manage crises.

This step was taken nearly a week after MP Riyadh Al-Adasani announced a proposal to allocate a session in order to

discuss the regional situation and its potential impact on Kuwait. “The state is required to announce an emergency plan especially since the Syrian regime threatened to retaliate against targets throughout the region if targeted by a military strike”, Al-Adasani told Al-Rai on Monday.

He further indicated that the call to discuss the regional situation at the parliament when it resumes sessions on October 29 aims to “address preparations to protect national and food security, especially since the country ’s food reserve is only enough to meet demands

for six months while we need to be prepared for surprises or emergencies of any kind”. Al-Adasani believes that the present developments provide a reminder to bombings that targeted Kuwait during the Iraqi-Iranian war in the eighties of the past century.

“These incidents serve as historical evidence that external insurgencies can have a negative impact on the local scene”, he said, before also warning that an espionage cell connected to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and convicted in Kuwait “had planned to blow up oil pipes and military targets”.

MP Abdullah Al-Tamimi also admitted that Syria could react to a United States’ military strike by targeting US allies in the region, especially Israel. MP Mohammad Al-Jabri argued in the meantime that a confederation union between Gulf Cooperation Council countries would have provided protection to Gulf states from similar threats.

MP Askar Al-Enizy expressed confidence in the government’s ability to thwart any potential threat “judging from my experience as member in the interior and defense committee during several parliamentary terms”.

Kuwait- Palestine relations KUWAIT: Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Ali Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah met yesterday with Palestinian Ambassador to Kuwait Rami Tahboub. During the meeting, the two sides discussed aspects of bilateral relations, as well as developments of situations on regional and international arenas.

MoE to declare list of 144 retirees KUWAIT: Dr Nayef Al-Hajraf, Minister of Education and Higher Education, said that a new system for recruitment and retirement of teachers was being prepared.

Speaking after his second meeting with Undersecretary Mariam Al-Wetaid and other officials, Al-Hajraf said they reviewed the lists of those who would be forced to retire after being in service for over 30 years. He added that the new system aimed at filling vacancies as soon as possible. Informed sources said that the first batch of retirees would include over 200 school directors, assistant directors and heads of departments in both public and private schools. They added that a new batch of managers would follow soon. Meanwhile, during a tour to inspect the teachers’ hostel, MoE Undersecretary, Mariam Al-Wetaid said that a list of 144 forming the first batch of retirees who had been in service for 35 years would be released on Sunday. Abdullah Al-Otaibim, MoE’s Public Services Manager, announced the arrival of 420 new teachers of the total of 585 hired from Egypt, Tunis, and Jordan.

Stage set for Riqqa Battleship Race KUWAIT: The Kuwait Sea Sports Club announced yesterday that the sea heritage committee will organize the 19th Annual Riqqa Battleship Race on Saturday under the patronage of the Wazzan Social Security Foundation.

The race features five pearl diving ships, half of which are donated by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, and the other half were gifted by the late Amir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Divers who

recently took part in the 25th Annual Pearl Diving Trip that was concluded last Thursday will be on board the 10 ships. The race starts near the Failaka Island where ships are set to sail with the goal of reaching the KSSC beach in Salmiya first. The ships are divided into three categories: large size, medium size and small size ships, and they will all set sail at the same time. The closing ceremony takes place at 7 pm on Saturday at the Sheikh Abdullah AlMubarak Hall in the KSSC building.

KUFPEC plans to invest in US rock gas KUWAIT: Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Explorations Co’s CEO, Sheikh Nawaf Soud Al-Sabah stressed yesterday that half of the company’s profits come from Middle East, Pakistan and Yemen, where production is so abundant, in addition to other productive projects in newly discovered field in Australia. Al-Sabah added that KUFPEC’s share in the Australian oil field, that is rich in gas and liquidated gas, was 37 per cent. “We are looking forward to linking the company’s share of gas from this field with Kuwait’s future needs of gas supplies”, said Al-Sabah adding that KUFPEC also invested in Indonesia and Malaysia in addition to the acquisition of a Norwegian company by the

beginning of 2013.

Further, Al-Sabah stressed that despite the negative impact the disturbances on the Arab Spring-stricken Arab countries had on KUFPEC, the company’s investments and operations in Yemen, Tunisia and Egypt were still going according to schedule. Responding to a question about oil sand projects KUFPEC intends to invest in, Al-Sabah said that KUFPEC was keen on investing in untraditional oils such the oil sands in Canada and Rock oil and gas in America and that it was only waiting for good investment opportunities that go along with the company’s strategy.

Increased job creation leads to rental hikes in Dubai DUBAI: Increased levels of job creation and Dubai’s safe haven status have spurred demand in the emirate’s residential market, revealed a Cluttons property market report.

Villa values rose by an average of 21 per cent in the second quarter of this year, compared to 24.4 per cent last year while apartments recorded capital value increases of 25.1 per cent in Q2, almost double from the same quarter last year.

However the values remain 31.1 per cent below the previous peak suggesting that recent IMF concerns about market overheating may prove to be negative, said Cluttons.

The report also said that the drivers behind the current price growth do not mirror those seen during the market peak in 2008. The increased demand seen in Dubai’s residential market can be attributed to favourable lending rates which are encouraging buyers to invest in real estate and soaring rents that are urging tenants to consider home ownership

as an option, said the report. Dubai has also benefitted tremendously from its safe haven status for refugee funds from the Middle Eastern region.

The report also notes accelerated demand in the well-established sub-markets in new Dubai owing to job creation. This is evident in the rise of rental values, which rose by 11.3 per cent across Dubai during the first half of 2013, said Cluttons.

“The resounding success of Dubai’s residential market so far this year should not come as a surprise given the magnitude of the correction recorded during the bottom of the market; we are still far off the previous peak, when growth was far more unsustainable,” said Steve Morgan, head of Cluttons Middle East. “The acceleration in residential capital values this year has been underpinned by robust levels of job creation and a rising population, rather than being fuelled by ‘fly-buy’ dealers, as was the case in the past.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

LOCAL

Kuwait govt ‘eager’ on youth empowerment strategy KUWAIT: Minister of Information and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud AlSabah said yesterday that the government is “eager to implement an ambitious youth empowerment strategy” it had earlier prepared. In a meeting with the new line-up of the Public Authority for Youth and Sports (PAYS) Board, Sheikh Salman added that supporting and catering for youth is a top priority for Kuwait’s political leadership.

The minister expressed appreciation of the role played by former PAYS Board and congratulated its new members.

He expressed hope PAYS would continue its great contribution in the implementation of the National Youth Project.

Sheikh Salman stated that the National

Youth Project, since its inception, has exerted strenuous efforts in cooperation with government and non-government organizations to materialize HH the Amir’s youthsupporting initative.

The youth project aims to encourage communication between the political leadership and youth groups, develop youth participation on social issues like national unity, democracy, freedom of expression, decision-making, economic development and plans to tackle radacalism, fanatasism and tribal division.

These will aim to unleash their ambitions and aspirations and develop ways to enhance them, identify their concerns and challenges and prepare promising future youth leaders. —KUNA

Focus on road safety

KUWAIT: Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Sheikh Mohammad Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah receiving a delegation from the union of civil workers at the ministry headed by Union President Badr Al-Enezi yesterday.

MPs push populist demands among list of priorities Deadline to submit proposals may be extended KUWAIT: As panels scramble to submit lists to the parliament’s head office by mid-September with topics to be given priority when sessions resume on Oct 29, reports emerged of lawmakers pushing draft proposals relating to subjects promoted during election campaigns in those lists. AlQabas daily quoted parliamentary sources in a report yesterday who explained that there is a “growing concern” within a number of MPs that the lists could be dominated by government-sponsored draft laws, leaving little or no space for fresh proposals.

Among draft laws that MPs want included in the lists are amendments to the Family Fund to cover more debtors, increases

in child support allowances, amendments to the Civil Service Commission regulations regarding employment in the public sector as well as proposals to change the distribution of constituencies in the electoral law.

Meanwhile, the interior and defense committee requested that the deadline to submit its list of priorities be extended until the first of October “after the government withdrew a number of draft laws while MPs failed to present others”, MP Abdullah Al-Tamimi told Al-Jarida daily following the panel’s meeting on Monday.

Also, educational committee member MP Dr Khalil Abdullah said that the panel discusses topics today that include a proposal

to assign a body from outside the Ministry of Education to assess the quality of education in the country. In the meantime, a recent meeting between Prime Minister HH Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak AlSabah and Parliament Speaker Marzouq Al-Ghanim which highlighted the need for cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities, seems to have failed to help the relationship between the two authorities with several MPs questioning its motives.

“Despite being present in the country, I did not receive an invitation to attend the meeting and I only got to know about it from the media, which raises suspicions”, MP Dr Maasouma Al-Mubarak said

which was quoted in Al-Watan yesterday. She also downplayed the positive remarks made following the meeting which was attended by a select number of lawmakers, saying that the statements were “repeated”, “far from ground reality”, and “most of them spoke about irrelevant projects”.

Meanwhile, MP Safaa AlHashim questioned the motive behind a public survey which AlGhanim hired a private firm to conduct to determine topics to be given priority during the parliament’s session. She said on Monday that the pressing topics are already known, and criticized the speaker for failing to provide the name of the company hired or any further details about the deal.

KUWAIT: Maj Gen Abdelfattah Al-Ali, Interior Ministry Assistant Undersecretary for Traffic Affairs, said the goal of restoring traffic control and the strict implementation of the law on all violators is not to collect money, although KD 18 million was collected from traffic violations from April to July.

He said the traffic department focuses on intersections, main roads, bridges, internal roads and areas which have high traffic flow in commercial and entertainment areas and advised drivers to comply with

the law for their safety. Al-Ali said that traffic officers are educated on rules and regulations so that they can carry out their duties in a responsible manner. He said another aspect to restoring traffic control is to educate drivers on good road behavior and this awareness will take place in cooperation with the public relations department through various media, lectures, seminars and SMS to encourage right traffic culture among children, youth, parents, students, employees, taxi drivers, public transport users and so on.

Steps to promote Japanese food, farm products in GCC TOKYO: Japan’s major lender Mizuho Bank Ltd. announced yesterday that it has agreed with the Kuwait-based Gulf Investment Corporation to export Japanese agricultural products to the Gulf countries.

The two firms concluded a memorandum of understanding that aims to promote the import of food and agricultural products made in Japan and the introduction of Japanese agricultural technology into the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Tokyo-based bank said in a statement.

“As well as promoting import of Japan’s high-quality food and agricultural products and promoting introduction of production and processing technology in the GCC Countries, the memorandum also aims to develop industry, promote employment, and

improve food security in the region,” said Mizuho.

“Specifically, we will take cooperative actions including consideration of the establishment of joint venture companies,” it said.

Mizuho will use this memorandum of understanding to connect Japan with the GCC Countries and to support expansion of agriculture, forestry, and fisheries-product exports, which is one of the strategies stated in the Japanese government’s growth strategy, it said.

The Gulf Investment Co. is a government-owned investment corporation that aims for economic and industrial development in the GCC Countries. It was established in 1983 through equal investment by the governments of the six GCC Countries - Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman. — KUNA

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

LOCAL In my view

kuwait digest

Crisis in the Arab world

Can human life be devalued like currency?

By Dr Mohammad Al-Moqatei

P

By Ramzy Baroud

H

ow many Egyptians have been killed since the January 2011 revolt? My pursuit for exact figures has proved to be futile. Various sources suggest all sorts of numbers, some scrambled to make a political point. It is as if the life of the ordinary Egyptian doesn’t matter on its own, as an absolute value that must be guarded aside from any political considerations. If it does matter at all, it is only within a larger context to simply prove a point.

But the deaths are certainly in the thousands. On Aug 14 - one of the bloodiest days in modern Egyptian history - hundreds of people were killed in Cairo and the rest of the country.

What was the point of killing 38 allegedly proBrotherhood political prisoners on their way to Abu Zaabal prison in northern Egypt on Aug 18? And what did the killing of 25 Egyptian soldiers in northern Sinai the next morning achieve? Is the life of poor Egyptians cheap to the extent that they are being used as political fodder in exchange of few media sound bites?

According to the Palestinian Center for Human Rights, 1417 Palestinians were killed during the Israeli 2008-09 war on Gaza, out of which 926 were civilians, including 313 children. The Israeli rights group

The civil war in Syria has done more than enough to devalue human lives as well. The UN and other groups calculate the toll as a result of the brutal fighting at around 100,000. The site of dead bodies piled on top of one another has become a news media staple. Now allegations by both sides regarding the use of chemical weapons are adding another twist to the gory Syrian reality. Still, there is little consensus that regardless of the religion, sect, or political views of the victims, the slaughtering of a family in some peaceful village is a reprehensible act that must be condemned with unreserved outrage.

B’Tselem put the number at 1,385, except it is higher in its estimation of minors and children killed, which it put at 318.

Despite the outrage at the Israeli action and the spiteful way in which Israeli politicians justified their war, since then many Palestinians have been killed in equal impunity, but the numbers are not as high.

And with every new casualty, there seems to be a tad less outrage, and fewer calls for international action.

When 22-year-old Mohammad Anis Lahlouh was killed by Israeli occupation forces in Jenin on Aug 20, the story didn’t make much of a buzz even in local Palestinian media. It was barely reported. How many Mohammeds were killed on that very day in Syria, Iraq and throughout the Middle East?

Can human life be devalued like currency? For months, if not years after the US invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq, there has been little mention of how many civilians have been killed by US forces and their allies. In fact, we will never know, as it is all an estimation, some of which is based on newspaper clippings and such. It is outrageous, but the kind of outrage that becomes less shocking with time.

In Afghanistan, it is still impossible to even narrow down the numbers with any plausible accuracy simply because there have been too many casualties, and little time and resources has been invested in knowing how many. And of course, there is much politics in that, for US media sources would do whatever it takes to estimate victims of terrorism, but little to estimate victims of its government’s own wars. The Los Angeles Times estimated that up to 1,201 civilians were killed between October 2001 and February 2002 (reported on June 2, 2002). The British Guardian estimated that up to 20,000 Afghans died as an indirect result of the initial US airstrike and ground invasion (reported May 20, 2002).

As for Iraq, iCasualties.org, founded in May 2003, didn’t bother to tend to Iraqi civilian casualties until nearly two years later. It was then called Iraq Coalition Casualty Count, and until now its main focus has certainly not been the hundreds of thousands of deaths at the hands of these military coalitions. According to Iraq Body Count website, as of the writing of this ar ticle, between 114,164 125,081 civilians were killed, and “further analysis of the WikiLeaks’ Iraq War Logs may add 11,000 civilian deaths.”

But of course, the numbers are much higher and they continue to rise, as the US has created a political atmosphere that set the stage for a protracted conflict. On Aug 1, the UN mission in Baghdad released new casualty figures: At least 4,137 civilians have been killed and 9,865 injured so far this year, and 1,057 Iraqis were killed in July alone, reported the BBC. Since then, hundreds more were killed.

The civil war in Syria has done more than enough to devalue human lives as well. The UN and other groups calculate the toll as a result of the brutal fighting at around 100,000. The site of dead bodies piled on top of one another has become a news media staple. Now allegations by both sides regarding the use of chemical weapons are adding another twist to the gory Syrian reality. Still, there is little consensus that regardless of the religion, sect, or political views of the victims, the slaughtering of a family in some peaceful village is a reprehensible act that must be condemned with unreserved outrage.

True, human life has hardly been treated with much sanctity in the Middle East, as dictators ruled with iron fists, and Israeli, US wars carried on with almost predictable succession. But recent wars and revolts have devalued human life even further, for now some are cheering at the misery of others where slaughter is shared on YouTube and social media, with casual comments, similes, and oftentimes utter indifference.

kuwait digest

Unnecessary survey

By Dr Bader Al-Daihani

W

hat we need now is political, democratic nominal changes. The constitution does not have a and constitutional reforms to help us shift condition that the government needs to win the into a full parliamentar y system that parliament’s trust.

Therefore, it usually comes with repeated verbal allows establishing political parties with national agendas. There is no democracy without political agendas. When the government approved what is parties. The electoral system also needs radical known as the ‘Development Plan’, it did not stick to changes to bring lawmakers who really represent it but it contradicted the plan’s outlines.

Many paid advisory studies, like Tony Blair’s the nation.

The request made by the speaker of the house report where he warned of what he described as to the National Assembly’s secretariat general to time bombs, have been forgotten for long in govconduct a survey amongst citizens to probe their ernment officials’ drawers. There are also studies conducted by the supreme priorities is nothing but a planning and development waste of time, effor t and Our government is not a parlia- council, Kuwait university, money. It is further proof that the current political mentary one formed according to the parliament and others. system is ineffective and the parliamentary election results. In addition, the problems citizens have been suffering needs radical political reforms for the following It is rather a fixed government with for two years are very obvireasons: Public elections slight nominal changes. The consti- ous don’t need further eviworldwide are considered a tution does not have a condition dence. These problems include unemployment, survey or a referendum of citizens’ opinions and the that the government needs to win housing, high cost of living, best way to solve their the parliament’s trust. Therefore, it deteriorating educational problems on the one hand, usually comes with repeated verbal and health services, traffic congestion, population and define their future aspirations on the other. That is agendas. When the government structure, problems of revwhy nominees compete approved what is known as the enue-based economy and through various agendas so ‘Development Plan’, it did not stick the spread of various types of corruption, mainly politithat voters can choose who and which program repre- to it but it contradicted the plan’s cal. So, do we need to conduct more studies at extra sents them best in parlia- outlines. cost? O f course not. The ment. This compels a lawproblem is not in the lack of studies and research maker to keep the promises he made to his voters.

Although surveys are important to probe public but in the current ineffective general management opinion, studies to define citizens’ priorities should of the whole state.

What we need is political, democratic and connot be conducted after elections simply because voters’ opinions are already reflected in their votes. stitutional reforms to help us shift into a full parliaSo, the fact that this request was made by the mentary system that allows establishing political speaker right after electing the parliament indi- parties with national agendas and basis. There is no cates his thought that the current political situation democracy without political parties. The electoral is unstable. MPs are not elected because of feasible system also needs radical changes to bring lawelectoral programs but rather over personal, tribal, makers who really represent the nation. The Cabinet can then be formed out of the parliamensectarian and family considerations.

Our government is not a parliamentary one tary majority and, unlike what is currently happenformed according to the parliamentary election ing, will get the parliament’s trust after presenting results. It is rather a fixed government with slight its agenda. — Al-Jarida

kuwait digest

The shelved govt report

By Ahmad Al-Sarraf

I

don’t know who deserves credit for this; maybe from 39, and in increasing government spending it is the Minister of Planning Rola Dashti, but I to 100 from 82. It also indicates that the private would like to thank the person who played the sector’s role shrunk greatly, and that unemploymain role in releasing the first ‘truly sincere’ gov- ment increased from 4.7 percent to 5 percent in a ernmental report which shows the number of country where Kuwaitis make up 26 percent of managerial flaws which resulted in citizens losing the total population. Furthermore, the report faith in their government. The M inistr y of shows that a large percentage of expatriate labor forces in Kuwait are found Planning report which was the private sector, and reportedly sent recently to The Ministry of Planning report in that 42 percent of them the Cabinet - perhaps to be shelved with dozens of oth- which was reportedly sent recently are marginal workers.

On the other hand, it er reports filed before it - to the Cabinet - perhaps to be shows that the private focuses on deteriorating shelved with dozens of other reports s e c tor ’s d e m a nd on levels of efficiency in state departments’ management filed before it - focuses on deteriorat- Kuwaiti manpower focus“in all fields”, as well as a ing levels of efficiency in state es on workers with low qualifications as decline in transparency, and departments’ management “in all academic 82 percent of Kuwaitis in general weakness in honoring the law; especially on fields”, as well as a decline in trans- the private sectors have a th e gover n men t ’s par t parency, and general weakness in hi gh s c hool d e c re e a s top academic qualifiwh ich led to lack of law honoring the law; especially on the their cation as of 2012. enforcement in all fields.

The report is long, and The report further con- government’s part which led to lack what I mentioned above demns failure on the gov- of law enforcement in all fields. are selected points quoternment’s part to improve the e-government project as it shows that Kuwait ed almost literally from it that show part of the ranks low internationally in this regard. sustainable disasters that we have. Are we going Meanwhile, it points out significant improve - to see anyone from the government address any ments in the judiciary’s independence as Kuwait of the flaws mentioned in the report? Or is it climbed to the 36th spot worldwide in 2012-13 going to be left to gather dust with similar reports that cost hundreds of millions of dinars to prefrom 48 in 2009-10.

On the other hand, the repor t shows that pare? Isn’t it sad to see the efforts of such an Kuwait dropped in the global prosperity index to important ministry in a report which eventually 38 from 31, in people’s trust in politicians to 53 ends up on some shelf? — Al-Qabas

olitical parties in the Arab world are like the majority of Arab regimes: incapable of governing properly.

Despite having opportunities and the need to establish modern states, Arab countries have for nearly a century failed to achieve this - though their constitutions and ideologies suggest otherwise. The key to this realization lies in objective and subjective problems that make them unqualified for this job, but instead seek power as a main goal.

The problem is found in the practice in which governments promote principles and values to garner public support, creating a huge gap between what they say but actually do. As a result, their approach is often filled with contradictions, like when politicians promote democracy while denying others’ right to participate in power. This puts restrictions on people’s ability to change and at the same time lack the capability to enforce a project to establish a modern state. The prime example for this is fragile political systems in the Arab world where building institutions and programs for proper administration are the least of politicians’ concerns.

Meanwhile, the objective problem is also found in parties’ work when they show intolerance towards ideologies different than what they promote, fail to respect others’ opinions and go as far as conspiring against others. In the meantime, the continuous infighting in most cases distracts people away from the same parties’ failure to promote ideologies of reform.

The subjective problem lies in the scenario when reaching power becomes the end for a political party, instead of being a means by which they seek to fulfill the public goals they promote. Once they reach power, the idea of sharing authority or one day losing it dominates parties’ thinking, which is something that could have happened in the aftermath of Arab coups during the fifties and sixties of the past century which bred ruthless regimes willing to do anything to keep their clutches tightened around the seats of power.

Unfortunately, this approach has been adopted by parties that reach power through force or by elections.

Amidst this, Arab thinkers are divided between a group which stands behind a tyrant regime, a group that supports an oppressive political party, a group that finds justifications for unfortunate events and a group which stands and watches as atrocities take place before them. Each group fails to achieve balance or judge the present situations objectively without having their judgment influenced by preconception. In light of the situation in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Egypt and the remaining Arab countries, I believe that everyone is required to determine their position from the following points: Has the electoral option in running the state’s affairs become obsolete?

Can force be accepted as a base to reach power?

Is a military coup an acceptable way to express people’s will?

Is it acceptable to terminate political oppositionists?

Is it okay for politicians to involve the judiciary into the political scene?

Is there legitimacy in a regime that kills its people and destroys its country to stay in power?

Is it okay to accept freedom only as designed by the regime?

I believe that everyone in the Arab world needs to realize the painful reality that the reason behind our underdevelopment is regimes which believe that they are the only ones who are right and political parties that thrive on the disintegration of their countries through infightings and a lack of plans to build a modern state. — Al-Qabas

kuwait digest

Ending cable thefts

By Terki Al-Azmi

W

hile the Ministry of Electricity and Water as well as the Ministry of Interior continue to look for a solution from a technical and security standpoints respectively to stop high voltage cable thefts at power transformers, people are still wondering who is responsible for this. In a statement Al-Rai daily published last Saturday, Interior Ministry’s Brigadier General Mahmoud Al-Tabbakh suggests that it is illogical to deploy nearly 3,000 police officers to guard transformers around Kuwait. I agree with him because I think it is illogical to put the safety of that many police officers at risk just because the MEW cannot keep its facilities safe.

As officials from both ministries meet today in order to discuss best ways to tackle the issue, I would like to share with them a solution from a technical standpoint that is applied successfully in other countries: First, electricity transformers are connected to a control system that consist of four surveillance cameras attached to each transformer. These cameras are connected with a system that uses laser sensors that can send warning signals to control rooms located one in each governorate. Each control room can be managed by one employee, which means that only six staff members are required to supervise the system.

The control rooms are connected with a main control center and the Interior Ministry’s operators - something than can be done easily and at limited costs.

Surround transformers with barbed wires that rise and trap a thief automatically after he intercepts the lasers and set the alarm off. I suggest that the Ministry of Electricity and Water adopts a similar project to monitor main and secondary transformers through contracts with international electronic solutions providers that are signed directly without the need for middlemen. The cost of such deal would be small compared to the losses suffered as a result of the continuous thefts.

I believe that the thefts are allowed to happen as a result of the MEW’s ignorance with modern technology and its utilization in monitoring. This is a trait shared by the government as a whole as we have seen how the Ministry of Education dealt with a project to install surveillance cameras at public schools a few years back.

Failure to utilize modern technology costs the state a lot including blackouts and financial losses as a result of organized thefts carried out by technicians who know very well that transformers are not monitored.

Technology showed us the solutions, and there are successful cases of the West utilizing it to the maximum.

Meanwhile, we still have to sit down and listen as the Ministry of Electricity and Water demands that the Interior Ministry arrests cable theft gangs. I hope that officials from both ministries discuss ways to use technology effectively during their meeting today. — Al-Rai

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

LOCAL

Kuwait, Japan agree to strengthen partnership KUWAIT: After frank and candid talks between His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and visiting Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe here on Monday a joint statement on bilateral relations, cooperation as well as stances of issues of common concern was issued. The statement, titled “Joint Statement on the Strengthening of the Comprehensive Partnership towards Stability and Prosperity between the State of Kuwait and Japan”, went as follows: Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan, visited the State of Kuwait from Aug 25 to 27. Prime Minister Abe met with HH Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, acting Amir and Crown Prince of the State of Kuwait.

On Aug 26, Prime Minister Abe met with HH Sheikh Jaber AlMubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, and they reaffirmed the importance of further expanding the bilateral cooperation. Recalling the state visit of HH Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, and the Joint Statement issued in March 2012, both sides welcomed the tangible progress of bilateral cooperation in the political and economic fields as well as in the cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

On behalf of the people of Japan, Prime Minister Abe expressed Japan’s gratitude for Kuwait’s generous donation of five million barrels of crude of oil, three million dollars to Aquamarine Fukushima and two million dollars to Japan Red Cross Society, as well as the reconstruction projects such as the procurement of new railway coaches, the inauguration of a children’s care center and other projects in the affected areas of the Great East Japan Earthquake.

Both sides expressed their intention to further strengthen the comprehensive partnership between the two countries towards the stability and prosperity through promoting various levels of cooperation as follows. Both sides also reiterated the importance of strengthening cooperation and consultation through such measures as follows: Firstly: Cooperation in the Political and Security Fields Both sides emphasized the importance of holding the Second Meeting of the Joint Committee between the Government of Japan and the Government of the State of Kuwait as soon as possible.

Both sides expressed their intention to implement policy consultations between the Foreign Ministries of the two countries as soon as possible. Both sides expressed their willingness to promote a high-level political and security dialogue to discuss regional situations, maritime security, including the safety of the sea lanes and counter-piracy, non-proliferation, anti-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, among other issues between the Foreign and Defense Ministries of the two countries. * Both sides expressed their intention to enhance the coordination of assistance to developing countries, and in this regard, they welcomed the outcome of the Asian Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) summit which was held in Kuwait in October 2012. The Japanese side welcomed Kuwait’s initiative to establish and host the ACD provisional secretariat. * Both sides expressed their satisfaction with the signing of the Memorandum on Cooperation and Strategic Dialogue between Japan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on January 7, 2012, and with its Action Plan. They further expressed their intention to deepen and expand dialogue and cooperation between Japan and the GCC at the ministerial level and senior officials’ level.

Secondly: Cooperation on Regional and International issues Both sides confirmed their commitment to a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in the Middle East in accordance with the

relevant United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. In order to achieve this goal at the earliest possible, they shared the urgent need to make a progress in the Middle East peace process and to reach the two-state solution aimed at establishing a Palestinian state that is sovereign, independent, united and viable and they underscored the need for the major international efforts to drive the peace process forward. The Kuwaiti side welcomed the decision made by the Government of Japan to recognize Palestine as a non-member observer state at the United Nations.

Both sides expressed their deep concern regarding the escalating situation in Syria. Both sides called for the immediate cessation of violence in all its forms and peaceful dialogue, negotiations, convening the Geneva II Conference aiming to achieve political stability and economic and social development in an urgent manner. Both sides also expressed their deep concern over the alleged use of chemical weapons in the Gouta region of

expressed their readiness to strengthen their cooperation in the international arena. They reaffirmed the importance of joint efforts in order to achieve urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council, including the expansion of the permanent and non-permanent membership of the Security Council.

Thirdly: Cooperation in the Fields of Economy, Agriculture, and Medical Services Both sides stressed the importance of strengthening bilateral economic and technical cooperation, and expressed their commitment to working together to further promote trade, investment and business between the two countries.

In this regard, both sides welcomed the entry into force of the Convention between Japan and the State of Kuwait for the Avoidance of Double Taxation on Income, and reaffirmed the importance of the of the early entry into force of the Agreement between Japan and the State of Kuwait for the Promotion and

KUWAIT: Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his accompanying delegation departed Kuwait yesterday after an official two-day visit to the country, upon the invitation of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber AlMubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. Deputy Premier and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Head of the honorary mission, Advisor at His Highness the Prime Minister’s Diwan Faisal Mohammad AlHajji, in addition to a number of senior officials at the Premier’s Diwan, and the Kuwaiti Ambassador to Japan Abdulrahman Hamoud Al-Otaibi, bid farewell to the country’s guest at Kuwait International airport.

Syria on August 21, 2013 and called for the United Nations to Protection of Investment.

Both sides reiterated the importance of the stability of the promptly investigate into the allegations.

Both sides expressed their satisfaction towards the positive global energy market and welcomed Kuwait’s to supplying oil to outcome of the Donors Conference for the Syrian People, which Japan in a continuous and stable manner. Both sides welcomed was hosted by the State of Kuwait on January 29, 2013 o the the energy cooperation between the two countries, particularly request made by the Secretary General of the United Nations; joint investment in refinery projects in third countries.

The Japanese side welcomed Kuwait’s decision to review its which succeeded in mobilizing international financial resources in pledging over 1.6 billion dollars for the support of humanitari- offset program in order to ensure a better business environment an operations in Syria. Both sides also urged all pledging coun- for Japanese companies in Kuwait. * Both sides reiterated the importance of the annual tries to fulfill their financial commitments in a speedy manner.

Both sides discussed the current situation in Egypt and Japanese-Kuwaiti Businessmen Committee in promoting the stressed the importance of implementing the Roadmap as set business relations between the two countries.

Both sides welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of out in its timetable, expressed their confidence that Egypt will overcome this critical period and return to exercising its leading Cooperation for the policy dialogue on the National role and influence regionally and internationally. Both sides Development on the occasion of this visit.

* Both sides expressed their intention to facilitate policy dialogue among Japanese and Kuwaiti ministries and agencies concerned with the National Development Plan of Kuwait. * Both sides welcomed Japan’s contribution to the socio-economic competitiveness, reform and infrastructure development of Kuwait, as well Japan’s intention to actively participate in the formulation of the 2nd National Development Plan of Kuwait. * The Kuwaiti side expressed its willingness to benefit from Japan’s knowledge and experience in this regard.

Both sides expressed their intention to expand bilateral cooperation on infrastructure in Kuwait such as Independent Water and Power Producer (IWPP), wastewater treatment, refinery construction, metro project and integrated solar combined cycle in Kuwait.

The Kuwaiti side welcomed the establishment of the new scheme of cost-sharing technical cooperation for human resources development by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

Both sides expressed their intention to share Japan’s experience in the health sector and facilitate medical exchanges and cooperation via mutual visits, conferences, seminars, and human resources development in the health sector between the two countries. In this regard both sides expressed their intention to work together in order to raise the level of quality of medical services in Kuwait by utilizing Japan’s advanced medical and information technology.

Both sides expressed their intention to promote cooperation in the field of nuclear safety and disaster management, in particular, means to ensure the safety of foods and water as well as provision of accurate information by sharing Japan’s experience and the lessons learned from the accident at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant of Tokyo Electric Power Company.

Both sides expressed their intention to promote mutual understanding of food cultures and information exchange between Japanese and Kuwaiti food industries in order for Japan to contribute to the healthy and rich dietary customs of the people of Kuwait.

Fourthly: Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges The Kuwaiti side welcomed Japan’s consideration of the waiver of visas for Japanese and Kuwaiti diplomatic or official passport holders, seeking entry, into the other country for diplomatic or official purposes, or for a temporary visit. Both sides expressed their intention to promote bilateral cooperation in the fields of education, culture, sports, science, and technology, and people-to-people exchanges. Both sides welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation in the field of higher education and scientific research between the two countries on the occasion of this visit. Both sides emphasized the importance of the increase in number of Kuwaiti students who study in Japan, while noting Japan’s policy to invite trainees from the Middle East and send in return Japanese instructors to the region which will amount to 20,000 people over the next five years. Both sides expressed their willingness to enhance mutual exchanges in the field of sports and culture. In this regard, the Japanese side expressed its intention to dispatch to Kuwait a mission of sports and culture experts, which may propose initiatives for both countries.

The Kuwaiti side welcomed the desire of the Japanese side to participate in fairs that will be held in Kuwait. —- KUNA

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

LOCAL

Peru seeks to enhance trade, cultural relations with Kuwait Ambassador Castro to promote ‘Destination Peru’

By Sajeev K Peter KUWAIT: The Embassy of Peru in Kuwait has put in place a work plan to enhance the Latin American nation’s trade and cultural relations with Kuwait, said Heli Peláez Castro, Peru’s Ambassador to Kuwait.

Talking to Kuwait Times in an exclusive interview, the ambassador spoke on an array of topics ranging from trade, culture and tourism to food and literature, outlining the embassy’s initiative to start negotiations for a bilateral agreement with Kuwait on cultural cooperation.

“It is my first assignment as a diplomat in the Middle East and I feel very lucky to be here. The Kuwaiti authorities and society have been very kind to me and to my family,” the ambassador said. Ambassador Heli Peláez Castro took office as Peru’s new envoy to Kuwait three months ago.

“There is a goodwill and interest to collaborate and strengthen the bilateral relations between Kuwait and Peru through friendship and cooperation,” said Castro, who is a veteran career diplomat with vast experience in international relations and diplomacy spanning over 35 years.

“Kuwait is a country that historically has been distinguished for its strategic geographical location as well as high level of security and democratic system. Kuwait also has sufficient financial resources in order to promote trade and investment with other countries,” he added.

Food and culture Giving a snapshot of the cultural exchange program, Castro said, the Embassy of Peru has a work plan that aims at promoting cultural knowledge of Peru in Kuwait.

“Today, telecommunications and transportation have cut short the distance between countries. With the valuable assistance from the National Council of Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) of Kuwait, we want to promote presentation of Peruvian artists here. We will also exhibit our plastic arts in order to showcase Peru’s distinct culture and its original roots.

In Kuwait, the embassy will continue to promote the current boom of the Peruvian gastronomy in the world.

“We are discovering the Arab contribution to our gastronomy which is remarkable by its variety and good taste, now available in the best restaurants around the world,” he mentioned.

The Embassy of Peru will promptly start negotiations for a bilateral agreement on cultural cooperation to further promote cultural exchange between Peru and Kuwait in order to let Peruvian artists participate in cultural programs organized by the Kuwaiti authorities, he pointed out.

“In the framework of this agreement, we expect to repeat the Peruvian Gastronomic Festival that was successfully co-organized by National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters of Kuwait, the Embassy of Peru and JW Marriott Hotel in March 2012. Also, we expect to bring Peruvian artistes who will delight residents in Kuwait with Peruvian folklore music characterized by the Andean sounds,” the ambassador stated.

Trade ties In the field of trade, the ambassador said the embassy expects to introduce Alpaca in Kuwait market for its remarkable quality and softness of its fiber. “Also we are looking at promoting Peruvian textiles which are very

well known for the high quality of Peruvian ‘Pima’ cotton.

Our rainforest, rich in natural resources, also offers a huge variety of fish to feed our population. For example, the Amazon River alone, which starts in the Peruvian rainforest, has more than 2,000 species of fish. This variety of fish almost runs parallel to more than 2,000 varieties of potatoes being grown in Peru,” he said.

“Potato is a product originally from Peru which arrived in Europe through Spaniards. Today, it is a basic food of the entire world,” the ambassador pointed out.

The embassy also wants to introduce Peruvian food products to Kuwait such as quinoa, a grain that grows in the highlands of Peru. “Quinoa is beginning to be recognized in the world for its anti-diabetic power and we expect it to be accepted well in the Kuwaiti market,” he said.

KUWAIT: Peruvian Ambassador to Kuwait Heli Peláez Castro during the interview. — Photo by Sajeev K Peter

“A few days ago, I visited the Dasman Diabetes Institute, an institute that has taken a remarkable initiative and effort to fight and prevent diabetes. The embassy is offering the institute information on using quinoa as a supplementary food for people who suffer from this terrible disease. As we know, quinoa is very nutritious and has a low glycemic index, so it is safe for diabetic patients,” he mentioned.

The embassy is planning to bring a Peruvian chef to Kuwait who could teach at the Dasman Diabetes Institute on how different dishes can be prepared with quinoa. A campaign can also be launched disseminating information on this product and its high anti-diabetic properties.

“We hope to succeed in our attempt to exchange information about the product derived from quinoa and its use in the daily diet of Kuwaitis, especially in this year in which FAO declared ‘2013 as the International Year of Quinoa’”, the ambassador informed.

Arabic linkages Similarly, the embassy wishes to promote the knowledge of the Peruvian Paso horse in Kuwait whose origin is a mixture of the Arabic and the Spanish horse. “The Peruvian Paso has a soft step and elegant walk. This horse has been appreciated by farmers in Latin America,

Central America and the United States of America,” Castro mentioned.

Today, Peru has a solid economy which is considered one of the best in Latin America and the entire world, qualified by the Agency Standard and Poor’s as range BBB+, due to its long-term credit rating. This places Peru in a safe and secure place for investment opportunities.

Standard and Poor’s also has raised the rating from BBB+ to A- for Peru’s sovereign debt in local currency, the Nuevo Sol, he said.

“We are contacting investment businessmen in Kuwait to give them information about the opportunities and investment projects being executed in Peru,” Castro stated.

“We are also seeking the implementation of technical and scientific cooperation projects with Kuwait in order to facilitate professional training through scholarships for Peruvian students both undergraduate and post graduate.”

Destination “My country is an archaeological treasure with a Millenary Inca past. For example, the city of Caral, built 4,000 years ago, located 150 km from the capital Lima, requires further research and investment to be completely restored. There are also many archaeological sites that have been discovered in northern Peru with foreign cooperation,” he said.

“I feel great pleasure to see that Kuwaitis have begun to realize Peru as an ideal destination, a destination for business, sports, and tourism. They show remarkable interest and desire to know about the capital of the Inca Empire, such as Cusco and the historical sanctuary of Machu Picchu. We expect that this growing flow of tourists from Kuwait to Peru will increase over the coming years,” the ambassador said.

According to the ambassador, Peru is making significant investments in the tourism industry today.

“Currently we are building a good hotel infrastructure across the country, not only to visit Cusco but also Lima, the capital, which is unlike any other in Latin America, located at the edge of the Pacific Ocean.”

Lima offers a rich view of the colonial period in Peru and has a variety of high quality gourmet restaurants; some of them located next to museums and pre-Inca ruins.

“The Millenary Peru opens its doors not only to the world of culture but also offers eco-tourism in the Peruvian jungle. It also has beautiful snow covered mountains in the department of Ancash, where I come from, where professional climbing is a practice,” he added.

“We expect that this wide variety of opportunities that Peru is offering to do business, enjoy its gastronomy and visit its historical places will be well accepted by Kuwaitis,” he added.

Castro graduated from the Diplomatic Academy of Peru in 1975, though he completed his higher studies in Languages and Literature. Despite having a hectic official life, Castro is a voracious reader, especially of poetry.

“I was reading the poetry of Octavia Paz the other day,” he said referring to the celebrated Latin American writer and the Nobel Laureate, who was also a diplomat.

“He is a splendid writer. I found his writings on India amazing. Paz will help you rediscover India, its cultural diversity and religions, altruism and idiosyncrasies,” the ambassador quipped.

Discussions on awareness in civil defense field RIYADH: The fifth meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) security media committee discussed here yesterday the importance of awareness in the civil defense field.

The agendas of today’s meeting included discussing guidelines for production of awareness media materials, which comes under the framework of implementation of

decisions that urge GCC countries to submit detailed statements on visional, readable, and audible productions, as well as production of joint security awareness films on countering crimes.

Also, the meeting stressed importance of awareness in the civil defense field as participating countries highlighted their reports on their awareness activities,

which they implement annually, and discussed suggested slogan for civil defense day for this year and next year.

The Kuwaiti delegation taking part in the meeting is headed by Lt Col Yousef Al-Ghadban, and including Capt Nafel Al-Aajmi, Capt Abdullah Bahman, Capt Rashed AlHalfi and Capt Othman Al-Mansouri. — KUNA

‘Reform, rehab triangle’ KUWAIT: Maj Gen Khalid Al-Dayeen, acting assistant undersecretary for Reform Establishments said the halfway house which deals with a group from the addiction center is advanced in the field of reform and rehabilitation.

He said its programs are considered a new addition to the follow-up care, which aims at restoring confidence and helping the addicts deal with life better.

Maj Gen Al-Dayeen who visited the addiction center and halfway house run by the rehab department at the Awqaf Ministry, said it achieves the standards and evaluation of reform programs used by rehabilitations.

He said the “reform and rehab triangle” is well supported by senior officials at the Interior Ministry.

Kuwaiti on trial in Australia for speeding KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti student in Australia is set for trial next month after he broke the speed limit on a highway on his way from one city to another. According to sources, the man was pulled over, arrested and then released after a court date was set for driving over 220 km per hour in a place where the maximum speed limit allowed is 90 km per hour. The man was reportedly present in court during the first trial on Monday, in which the judge adjourned the case to Sept 30. The man was not jailed but is banned from leaving Australia until the verdict is issued. Kuwait embassy personnel in Australia were contacted for further information but they refused to comment on the subject, Al-Anba reported.

Fugitive questioned Authorities at the Nuwaiseeb border checkpoint (south) referred a man to the Criminal Investigations Department for questioning to reveal how he was able to bypass a travel ban order issued against him when he tried to leave the country. According to sources, the man returned to Kuwait on Monday when officers found out that his name is blacklisted because he is wanted in 13 cases filed against him. The man claimed during questioning that he was not aware of the travel ban issued against him. Investigations are ongoing.

Officer caught A National Guard officer was arrested alcohol during a patrol mission on Monday. The suspect was reportedly stopped in Dasma by two patrol officers who saw him walking alone with a plastic bag. The officers checked the man’s ID and found out that he is a Kuwaiti national who works with the National Guard.

They searched the bag he was carrying after noticing that he was nervous, and found an imported liquor bottle inside it. The man was arrested and taken to the Criminal Investigations Department before being referred to the Drug Control General Department.

KRCS begins delivering relief aid to flood victims in Sudan KHARTOUM: Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) began on Monday delivering humanitarian relief aid to flood victims in Sudan through the first air route in accordance with the directives of HH the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince of Kuwait Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

The first of 10 air bridges set to deliver humanitarian relief will include aid to around 930 families in the Khartoum State, the most affected due to the floods, KRCS head of the delegation Ahmad Al-Fagaan said.

Al-Fagaan said dispatch operations began in Ambada and Al-Salam local areas, covering around 530 families, Al-Amir area which covered 310 families, and Al-Baqaa area for the benefit of 90 families.

The operations will continue in coordination with Sudanese Red Crescent air car-

go as planes continue to arrive over the next few days.

For his part, Sudan’s Red Crescent Secretary General Othman Jaafar expressed his appreciation and thanks on behalf of the Sudanese people for Kuwait’s honorable stance towards the victims of the recent floods that swept the country.

Jaafar added that Kuwait’s quick response to help with humanitarian aid was “something we are used to seeing from Kuwait, which stands side-by-side with Sudan in times of strife.”

The widescale floods in Sudan this month, described as the worst for a quarter of a century, have led to the displacement of some 320,000 as initial numbers, some two days ago, recorded 73 deaths as a result, according to the World Health Organisation.— KUNA

Search for shooter Investigations are ongoing in search for a man who fired a gunshot inside the Adan Hospital before escaping. No injuries were reported in the incident according to the police report. The case began when six youngsters arrived at the hospital suffering injuries after they were divided into two teams who engaged in a fight in Al-Andalus in which pocketknives were used. Soon enough, an armed man stormed his way into the reception, fired a bullet into the roof, and then escaped. Police were called to the scene after that and a case was filed for investigations.

Child injured A child suffered a broken right leg after he was accidently run over by his neighbor’s car in Sulaibiya on Monday. Paramedics and police arrived shortly after the incident was reported, and the boy was taken to the Sabah Hospital for treatment. Investigations revealed that the driver reversed without paying attention to his neighbor’s son who was standing behind it.

A case of negligence was filed at the area’s police station.

Smokers arrested Two men were arrested at the Kuwait International Airport on Monday after they refused to stop smoking at the arrivals lounge. The two were first approached by police officers who asked them to put out their cigarettes in accordance with the no-smoking regulations at the airport and then arrested them when they refused to cooperate. They were referred to the Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh police station to face charges.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

Jordan vote turnout low

Afghan Taleban kill 12 government workers Page 11

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Brotherhood leader denies ‘terrorism’ claim Egypt’s Brotherhood plans new demonstrations CAIRO: A fugitive leader of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood has denied accusations his group is committing acts of “terrorism” following the coup that toppled the country’s president. Mohammed el-Beltagy’s address, aired yesterday, comes as the Brotherhood plans new demonstrations to defy a crippling security crackdown that has put most of its senior and midlevel leadership behind bars. Among those detained Monday was 25-year-old US citizen Mohamed Soltan, the son of outspoken Brotherhood figure Salah Soltan, family and security officials said.

El-Beltagy, a former lawmaker, is wanted himself on accusations of inciting violence and has been hunted by authorities for nearly three weeks. In a videotaped message aired by Al-Jazeera Mubasher Misr, an affiliate of the Qatar-based broadcaster, el-Beltagy said that authorities were trying to turn a “political crisis” into a security problem by accusing his group of orchestrating a terrorism campaign.

Egypt’s media, almost uniformly anti-Brotherhood after the closure of Islamist television stations, have described the crackdown as a “war against terrorism.” “Don’t be fooled by these lies and deception that aim to label us with terrorism, violence, (and) killing ... at a time when the hands of the coup regime are drowned in blood,” elBeltagy said. El-Beltagy went into hiding earlier this month after authorities violently broke up protest encampments held by supporters of President Mohammed Morsi, overthrown July 3 by the military after days of mass protests against him. Hundreds died in the crackdown, including elBeltagy’s daughter.

In retaliation, Morsi supporters attacked police stations, government buildings and churches. Hundreds of Brotherhood members, the group’s top leaders and Morsi supporters were arrested, many accused of orchestrating and taking part in violence. Airport authorities also said yesterday that well-known Egyptian cleric Yousef alQaradawi, based in Qatar, would be arrested upon entry to the country. The elderly sheik is very close to the Brotherhood and has spoken out vehemently against the country’s military chief who led the coup.

The current bout of violence is the worst in Egypt’s 2 1/2 years of turbulent transition. More than 1,000 people, mostly Morsi supporters, were killed in the raids and other violence since mid-August. Violence has waned in the past few days. An official in the Interior Ministry said yesterday that 106 security personnel have been killed since Aug. 14 and that more than 900 have been wounded in violence, including soldiers and policemen. The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations.

In the latest round-up of Brotherhood supporters, authorities said they arrested Soltan and three others at the pro-Brotherhood Rassd Network News service’s office in the Cairo suburb of Maadi. Also detained in the group arrest was the manager of the news service, a broadcaster and one of Rassd’s founders.

Soltan, a graduate of Ohio State University, was active online in support of the Brotherhood and had posted a picture of his arm after he was shot during the security raid on the sit-ins two weeks ago. His father is wanted by police

CAIRO: In this Friday, Nov. 16, 2012 file photo, protesters led by senior Muslim Brotherhood figure Mohammed El-Beltagy, and former member of the Egyptian Parliament, Essam Soltan, unseen, chant slogans against the Israeli invasion of Gaza, in Al-Azhar mosque after Friday prayers, in Cairo, Egypt. The fugitive leader of Egypt’s Muslim Brotherhood is denying media allegations that his group is waging a “terror” campaign. — AP

on charges he incited violence during speeches. Police said the group was in possession of plans to spread chaos and violence in the country by inciting splits among the ranks of the army and police and through acts of civil disobedience. Police officials said they confiscated a Thuraya satellite phone, six mobile phones, three laptops and a camera from the group.

A Facebook group managed by his friends and family called “Free Soltan” described him as a “pro-democracy activist”. The administrators of the page say they do not know where he is being held and that they are contacting members of Congress and Senate to push for his release.

“He is a peaceful person and strongly committed to

non-violence and social justice,” a posting on the Facebook page said. Officials at the US Embassy in Cairo could not be immediately reached for comment.

The pro-Morsi camp is planning large new rallies on Friday to press for its demands, including justice for those killed and the “leaders of the coup” be put on trial. Many are still calling for Morsi’s return to power, though a Brotherhood official told The Associated Press on Monday that the group is open for talks only after “confidencebuilding measures” from the new government.

The size of their rallies has dramatically shrunk in the past week. Islamist groups allied to the Brotherhood have proposed a truce between the interim government and

MANAMA: A Bahraini woman holds a poster of a political prisoner during an anti-regime protest in the village of alMalkiyah, South of Manama, yesterday. National dialogue launched in February will resume today after a summer break, aimed at resolving Bahrain’s political deadlock since its 2011 Shiite-led revolt. — AFP

China Internet hit by ‘largest ever’ attack BEIJING: China has been hit by the “largest ever” attack on its Internet structure, crashing the country’s .cn servers, according to a government-linked agency. The national domain name resolution service came under a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack for around two hours early on Sunday, the China Internet Network Information Centre (CNNIC) said in a statement. Domain name resolution is a key part of how the Internet works, converting a website name into a set of digits-the IP address-that computers can recognise. The service in China focuses on websites with the .cn extension.

DDoS attacks are attempts to overload a server with a huge number of requests, so that it interrupts or suspends its functions. A second wave of the assault in China two hours later grew into “the biggest of its kind ever”, CNNIC said, without giving any indication of who might have been responsible. “The resolution of some websites was affected, leading visits to become slow or interrupted.” Washington has repeatedly accused China of waging hacking attacks on the websites of US government agencies and businesses.—AFP

the Morsi camp in which the authorities would end the crackdown and the media campaign in exchange for an end to street protests. Scattered protests continued across the country yesterday.

Meanwhile Tuesday, an intelligence official said masked militants and snipers attacked the headquarters of military intelligence in the Sinai border town of Rafah. The official said troops responded and injured two of unidentified assailants. The official said a second attack with rocket-propelled grenades and bombs targeted a police station in the town of Sheikh Zuweyid in Sinai, damaging the gates and injuring five people. The official spoke anonymously in line with regulations. — AP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

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Dread grips Damascus as US mulls military strike DAMASCUS: A heavy sense of dread pervades Damascus, as Washington and its allies mull military action after alleged chemical weapons attacks by the Syrian regime outside the capital last week reportedly killed hundreds of people.

Jihan is convinced the first US strike on Syria would hit Mazze military airport near her Damascus home, and has already packed her family’s bags, ready to flee the capital.

“They’ll hit Mazze, I’m sure; the target makes sense,” the young mother said of the facility, which that President Bashar al-Assad himself uses to travel within Syria. Mazze is guarded by the army’s fearsome Fourth Division, which Assad’s brother Maher al-Assad commands, and

is responsible for protecting Damascus and its outskirts against any rebel advances. Jihan, her husband and their two daughters already moved in on Monday with relatives living closer to the centre of town and away from the airport. Traffic in downtown Damascus, already diminished since the outbreak of the 29-month civil war, has thinned conspicuously as the West ramps up talk of military intervention.

People only venture out for urgent business or to gather supplies. “There are fewer people around,” said Adel, a bank worker. “My wife doesn’t go to see her mum everyday anymore. She just goes straight home from work.”

Mohammed, 35, speaking in the

upmarket Abu Rumaneh neighbourhood in the centre of Damascus, said that “for three days rumours have been flying around.

“My mother is terrified because we live near all the central government buildings, and they’re a real target.”

Futun, a mother living in the same area, said she was “suffering from hypertension because I’m so scared by talk of a strike.” Malek, an electrical goods salesman, appeared tense. “Everyone is nervous after listening to (US Secretary of State) John Kerry,” he said, in reference to comments by the top US diplomat that suggested a strike would go ahead should it be discovered Assad did indeed use chemical weapons.

“On (Saudi-based) Al-Arabiya T V, they’re talking about striking Mazze and Damascus international airport,” Malek said, sitting in his shop now deserted by customers. Malek’s sister Mayada has already withdrawn all her money from the bank. “I sent my wife to the market and she bought large amounts of meat, tomatoes, bread and pasta,” Malek said.

“She thinks we might have to stay barricaded in for a long while.”

Food sellers in the market have witnessed the same sense of panic. “Lots of people come to stock up in the morning and after work,” said Mohammed, whose stall sells rice, olive oil and pasta.

But for Michel, a cosmetics shopowner who lives in the mostly Christian

quarter of Tijara, rebel mortar fire on the centre of the capital is far worse than any airstrike by the West could be.

“These mortar rounds are far scarier because they practically land on our heads,” he said. Others profess their sometimes apocalyptic views on the fallout from a US strike. “If they strike, Russia and Iran will help us,” said Abu Ahmad, a baker. “It’ll be the Third World War and the fire won’t go out.” But architect Maysa was more philosophical. “The strike is inevitable-Obama’s been under a lot of international pressure to react. “In any case, our country is already at war,” she said of Syria’s conflict, which has k illed more than 100,000 people.— AFP

Iraqi Kurdistan rules out intervening over border More than 40,000 Syrians flee to northern Iraq

AMMAN: Jordanian police and municipal workers control the entrance to a polling station in Amman as voters arrive to cast their vote in the municipal elections yesterday. The Muslim Brotherhood, the main opposition party, is boycotting the polls, charging that, despite repeated promises since the Arab Spring of 2011, there is no real readiness for change. — AFP

Jordan vote turnout low AMMAN: Jordan’s municipal elections drew a poor turnout yesterday with the impact of a huge refugee influx from neighbouring Syria on a struggling economy stoking voter resentment and apathy.

“After eight hours of voting, the turnout was 21 percent, and 500,000 people voted,” Ahed Ziadat, a spokesman for the municipal affairs ministry, told a news conference.

“The turnout was low this year compared to 2007. Some institutions, like the armed forces and security forces, did not vote.”

In local polls in 2007, more than 50 percent of the registered electorate took part.

Polls opened on Tuesday at 7:00 am (0400 GMT ) and officially closed at 5:00 pm (14000 GMT). In Amman, however, voting was extended by two hours, and polling stations also closed one hour late in several other regions.

Under the law, electoral officials in each governorate can independently extend voting hours if the need arises. The Muslim Brotherhood, the main opposition party, boycotted the polls, charging that, despite repeated promises since the Arab Spring of 2011, there is no real readiness for change.

“Anyone who boycotts the polls affects the turnout and contributes to electing weak candidates,” Ziadat said. With few candidates of the leftist or nationalist opposition standing, tribal figures, who are the traditional bedrock of the monarchy, are set to sweep the elections.

“Jordan held parliamentary elections in January and today people are voting in municipal elections. It is an achievement for democracy and reform in this turbulent region,” Prime Minister Abdullah Nsur told reporters after he voted in his northwestern hometown of Salt.

But the election has been overshadowed by anger among Jordanians over the impact of more than 500,000 Syrian refugees on their lives and country, with its population of just 6.8 million.

Officials say the influx has placed a huge burden on already overstretched water and power supplies as well as housing and education. Also, the government has

announced a raft of austerity measures as it battles to reduce a $2 billion deficit this year and rein in a foreign debt that now exceeds $23 billion.

Last month, it doubled taxes on cellphones and mobile telephone contracts, and it also plans to raise the price of electricity by 15 percent.

“We are suffering from the large number of Syrian refugees. We have additional water and electricity problems as well as obstacles in finding jobs,” said Odai Khendi, before voting in the northern city of Ramtah, home to a large community of Syrian refugees.

“I am voting today to help improve our situation. Our demands for help are not political.” Khitam Rodan, from the city of Mafraq, which is hosting tens of thousands of Syrian refugees in the north, agreed.

“Our situation is disastrous. We need a solution,” she said. The desert Zaatari refugee camp, home to more than 150,000 Syrians, is located 10 kilometres (six miles) east of Mafraq.

In the mainly Christian city of Fuheis, west of Amman, supporters of candidates offered Arabic coffee to voters amid normal traffic and a low-key security presence. “I know the country is going through difficult times, but I want to vote and choose the right person to help the city,” Widad Issa, 85, told AFP after her grandson helped her vote in Fuheis.

Some 3.7 million Jordanians were registered to vote in the elections, to select 100 mayors and 970 municipal councillors from about 3,000 candidates in 94 municipalities. The electoral law reserves 297 municipal council seats for women.

Around 50,000 policemen were deployed across the kingdom on election day “to prevent any violations and ensure a smooth process”, according to police chief Talal Kofahi. The government had announced that about 1.25 million members of the armed forces, security services, people living abroad, and more than 40,000 election employees would not take part in the vote. —AFP

Vandals slash car tyres in Jerusalem JERUSALEM: Vandals slashed the tyres of six cars in an Arab neighbourhood of east Jerusalem, a police spokeswoman said yesterday morning, in an apparent racist attack.

“The tyres of six cars belonging to Arabs were found slashed in Beit Safafa,” police spokeswoman Luba Samri said in a statement. “The words ‘price tag’ and ‘revenge’ were spray-painted onto some of them,” she wrote.

“Price tag” is the name used for Jewish extremist hate crimes that generally target Arabs. Unknown assailants threw a Molotov cocktail at a Roman Catholic monastery in Israel last week and scrawled Hebrew graffiti on its walls, reading “Gentiles perish” and “revenge”.

Initially carried out against Palestinians in retaliation for state moves to dismantle unauthorised settler outposts, price tag attacks have become a much broader phenomenon with racist and xenophobic overtones. The Israeli cabinet has defined

“price tag” suspects as part of “unlawful organisations”, stopping short of the original justice ministry proposal to call their acts “terrorism”.

Meanwhile, Czech President Milos Zeman has proposed deploying Czech troops as UN peacekeepers in the disputed Golan Heights. The force was established in 1974 to monitor the disengagement of Israeli and Syrian forces in the Golan.

Some countries have recently withdrawn their contingents from the U.N. mission amid escalating hostilities after fighting from the Syrian civil war threatened their positions.

Zeman says the deployment would at least “help reduce the risk of this conflict’s escalation” and increase his country’s “prestige.” He made his proposal yesterday during an annual meeting with Czech ambassadors and diplomats. Such a Czech deployment would have to be approved by Parliament, and the country is facing early elections in late October. — Agencies

ARBIL: Iraq’s northern Kurdistan region has no plans to send troops into Syria to defend fellow Kurds, a senior Iraqi Kurdish official said, despite safety concerns which have driven thousands to cross the border. Iraqi Kurdish leader Massoud Barzani said earlier this month his well-armed region was ready to defend Kurds living in northeastern Syria if they were being threatened by rebel militants who have captured swathes of land in the north.

But his chief of staff said it did not mean that Iraqi Kurdistan was considering sending troops across the border, a move which would drag the region deeper into a conflict that has increasingly split it down ethnic and sectarian lines.

Western powers were weighing up options yesterday for a possible military strike against Syria following a suspected chemical weapons attack on a Damascus suburb last week that killed hundreds of civilians.

“Our policy is not to intervene militarily,” Fuad Hussein told Reuters in the regional capital of Arbil. “I think the Kurds in Syria, they have got their own people to defend (them),” he said. “They do not need military units to go there, but perhaps they need all other kinds of support,” he said.

He said Iraqi Kurdistan could help coordinate international aid, predicting more refugees after about 40,000 mainly Kurdish Syrians arrived in the last two weeks in one of the largest single movements of people since the conflict began in 2011.

Regional officials refer to northeastern Syria, where most Syrian Kurds live, as “Western Kurdistan.”

Kurds form big populations in Syria, Turkey and Iran but have no state of their own. They have an autonomous regional government in Iraq. Officials from the UN

BAGHDAD: World Food Program executive director Ertharin Cousin, left, speaks as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres, right, listens during an interview with The Associated Press in the heavily protected Green Zone in Baghdad, Iraq, yesterday. The head of the United Nations refugee agency is warning that Syria could be on the “verge of the abyss” as aid workers brace for a likely increase in the nearly 2 million refugees who have already fled the country’s civil war. — AP refugee agency have made internal predictions that up to 100,000 Syrian refugees could to flee to Iraq within the next month if the pace continues.

Hussein urged Syrians not to leave unless absolutely necessary, saying he feared the exodus may turn attention away from Kurdish political issues. In Arbil, some Syrians who fled have obtained residency permits and work in hotels and cafes.

“We are worried about having an empty Kurdistan in Syria because if the population will leave then there will not be a Kurdish issue in Syria and then we will also

lose that part of Kurdistan,” Hussein said. The influx of refugees last week was so large and sudden that border officials shut a pontoon bridge connecting the countries, fearing it would collapse under the weight of people.

Around 500 dust-covered refugee tents blanket a valley outside of Arbil. The camp grew so fast in the past week that there is a waiting list for tents. Some families have been forced to fashion shelters out of mattresses and blankets.

Refugees said the crisis had made them think about the future of the Kurdish population, which many said they would like to see

united in one state.

“I hope that the four pieces of Kurdistan can be one union and people will vote and decide who is going to be in the presidency,” said 25-year-old student Fadia Haji, sitting cross-legged at the entrance to her family’s tent.

While refugees said they were relieved to come to the stable Iraqi Kurdish region, most dismissed the idea of making it their permanent home.

“We have everything here but if the situation gets better (in Syria), believe me, I will not stay here one hour longer,” 31-year-old barber Juwan Khalil Yousef said. — Reuters

Coalition for action in Syria: Who and how?

PARIS: A coalition of countries that could launch military action in Syria is taking shape, following the alleged deadly chemical weapons attack last week that the West has blamed on the regime.

WHO? The United States would no doubt spearhead any intervention, France and Britain would participate and nations in the region such as Turkey would provide support. Russia-a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a Syria ally-opposes military action, which means any such intervention would take place without the world body’s green light. The countries, gathered together as part of a “coalition of the willing”, would take part in an operation aimed at punishing the regime of Bashar Al-Assad for the alleged chemical attack with targeted strikes, but not aimed at overthrowing the government.

A one-off operation is unlikely to be met with major political opposition in the three countries currently most involved: the United

States, France and Britain. The US president has the power to decide to launch air strikes without the agreement of Congress, which is currently on summer break and is only due to reconvene on September 9. But he must inform Congress and Barack Obama is already actively consulting lawmakers.

In Britain, Prime Minister David Cameron has said he will recall lawmakers from their summer break on Thursday to vote on a “proportionate response” to the alleged gas attack. In France, where President Francois Hollande has called for a “common response” from Western countries to “an intolerable act”, a one-off military intervention does not need parliamentary approval. Germany, meanwhile, is not considering military participation less than one month before crucial legislative elections.

But Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle has said his country would support potential action against the Syrian regime. Italy has rejected any militar y inter vention in Syria without the approval of the UN Security Council, where Russia is likely to block any such move. But

A picture released by the US Navy shows the guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) (L) and the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) transiting the Strait of Gibraltar on August 3, 2013 on their way to the Mediterranean Sea. US forces are “ready to go” if called on to strike the Syrian regime, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel told the BBC yesterday, saying evidence pointed to its use of chemical weapons. The Pentagon chief said forces had been deployed as needed and President Barack Obama had reviewed military options presented by commanders. — AFP

Turkey, which as a neighbour of Syria has taken in around 500,000 refugees as well as army defectors, has said it is ready to join an international coalition even without UN consensus.

Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), all of which support the Syrian rebellion, have been consulted by the West over a potential military operation. Jordan, which has also taken in some 500,000 refugees from Syria and fears a rise in Islamic extremism, has said it will not be a “launchpad” for military intervention in Syria. Washington’s top regional ally Israel, which is believed to have carried out several strikes in neighboring Syria since the start of the crisis, has warned it would retaliate “fiercely” if Damascus responded to international military action by striking the Jewish state.

HOW? The countries involved in a potential operation already have significant air and naval military capabilities in the region. Limited action-the option most favored by experts at this stagecould consist in targeted strikes by missiles launched from the sea against ammunition depots or strategic infrastructure. The United States has four destroyers in the Mediterranean Sea (USS Mahan, Ramage, Barry, Gravely) carrying Tomahawk long-range cruise missiles.

It can also count on two air bases in Turkey, in Izmir and Incirlik. Several ships belonging to the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit are docked in a port in the UAE, and the Truman aircraft carrier is also currently in the north of the Indian Ocean.

France, meanwhile, has submarines equipped with cruise missiles that can also be launched by planes. It has frigates in the Mediterranean that can carry helicopters, and also has fighter planes in Djibouti (seven Mirage 2000s) and Abu Dhabi (six Rafales). Britain can mobilize a cruise missile submarine, which would be its main contribution to the operation, experts say.

British ships are also currently in the Mediterranean: the HMS Illustrious, a helicopter carrier, and two Type-23 frigates, but none of these can launch missiles. The Royal Air Force also has a base in Cyprus. Turkey has Patriot air defense missiles stationed on the border with Syria, set up by the US, German and Dutch armies to protect it against potential Syrian strikes. Italy, finally, has not ruled out allowing its allies to use its air bases, despite its opposition to an intervention without UN consensus.—AFP

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Germany’s ex-president to face trial over favours scandal Merkel’s party ahead in polls before vote

KIEV: Ukrainian feminist movement FEMEN activists Oleksandra Shevchenko (L) and Yana Zhdanova pose outside the organisation’s office in Kiev after police conducted a search yesterday. Ukrainian police claimed they had found weapons in the offices of feminist movement Femen, a move the group slammed as the latest provocation by the authorities. — AFP

Weapons found in Femen office KIEV: Ukrainian police said yesterday they had found weapons in the offices of feminist movement Femen, which the group denied and slammed as the latest provocation by he authorities. Kiev police released a statement, saying that police had received an anonymous call saying that explosives had been planted at an address in the Ukrainian capital, which is where the Femen group’s office is located.

Bomb disposal technicians were dispatched to the premises, the statement said without mentioning the group’s name.

“During the search of the premises law enforcement members have confiscated objects that look like a TT handgun and a grenade,” it said.

Anna Hutsol, the head of the Ukrainian branch of the movement, told AFP that police claimed to have found a hand gun, a grenade and portraits of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill.

“This is a provocation. We did not have any weapons,” Hutsol said, adding that the weapons might have been planted in the office during the absence of the group’s activists.

The group published photographs showing policemen taking pictures of the weapons and Putin and Patriarch Kirill’s portraits during the search.

Femen’s female activists have become well-known in Ukraine and abroad for baring their breasts to protest discrimination against women and other rights violations. They have declared Putin and Patriarch Kirill their top enemies and have repeatedly heckled both men. Three members of the group along with a photographer were beaten up by unidentified men and held in police custody overnight in late July when Putin visited Ukraine. The group blamed the attack on Ukrainian and Russian special services.

Earlier this month, Femen claimed that Hutsol and two other activists had again been beaten up by special services in the latest attack by the government aimed at pressuring them to halt their protests. Putin was met with a bare-breasted Femen protest when he visited a trade fair in Germany in April alongside German Chancellor Angela Merkel. — AFP

Azerbaijan bars opposition from presidential poll BAKU: Azerbaijan yesterday blocked the country’s main opposition candidate from challenging strongman president Ilham Aliyev in October elections.

The oil-rich ex-Soviet state’s election commission said Oscar-winning screenwriter Rustam Ibragimbekov had been barred from standing in the autumn polls because of his dual Russian-Azerbaijan citizenship.

“The Central Electoral Commission reviewed all the documents presented by Ibragimbekov and considers that there is no legal basis for registering his candidacy for the presidential polls,” said Arifa Mukhtarova, the commission’s secretary.

“The basis for this decision is his Russian citizenship and his obligations to that country.” Ibragimbekov, who co-authored the Oscar-winning 1994 film “Burnt by the Sun” with Russian director Nikita Mikhalkov, had been put forward as a united candidate by a coalition of Azerbaijan’s main opposition parties.

Representatives from the opposition National Council of Democratic Forces (NCDF) coalition lashed out at what they called a “predictable” decision by the Azerbaijani authorities even though Ibragimbekov has initiated the process of renouncing his Russian citizenship.

“The fact that Rustam Ibragimbekov has applied to the Russian authorities and therefore already renounced his Russian citizenship was not enough for the Azerbaijani authorities,” said Isa Gambar, head of the Musavat party which is part of the coalition.

“Authoritarian regimes take whatever decision suits them best even if they only have the minimal justification for it,” Gambar said. In the meantime, the NCDF coalition on Friday picked Jamil Hasanli-a former lawmaker and historian-as a back-up candidate should Ibragimbekov be refused permission to run. —AFP

BERLIN: Germany’s former president Christian Wulff, who resigned amid a scandal last year, will face court on charges of accepting a favour while in office, justice officials said yesterday.

Wulff, 54, who was Germany’s youngest president and served less than two years in the largely ceremonial job, will become the country’s first former head of state to answer charges in court. He is accused of having allowed a film producer friend to pick up part of his Munich hotel bill during a 2008 Oktoberfest visit in return for lending support to a film project when he was Lower Saxony’s state premier.

Film producer David Groenewold has also been charged on suspicion he paid more than 500 euros ($668) for Wulff and his wife, from whom the ex-president has since separated.

Wulff has insisted he did not notice the favour at the time and later repaid the money in cash.

The trial is expected to start on November 1 in Hanover. The charge of accepting favours while in office carries a maximum penalty of three years’ jail and a fine under German law.

The accusations were reduced from the more serious corruption and bribery charges which had been demanded by prosecutors and carry up to five years’ jail.

Wulff and Groenewold earlier this year rejected an offer to settle the case with a fine, saying they want to clear their names in court.

she hopes to win a third term as German chancellor, Angela Merkel faces an unexpected problem that could damage her chances how to respond to shocking pictures of a suspected chemical weapons attack in Syria.

She is caught between overwhelming opposition from German voters to military action in Syria and pressure from international allies to back their calls for “consequences”.

Berlin’s decision two years ago not to support Western intervention in Libya has intensified that pressure.

Merkel, tipped to win a third term in the Sept. 22 vote although she may have to switch coalition partners, knows only too well how international crises can turn elections.

A clear “no” to US plans for an invasion of Iraq in 2002 was widely seen as a crucial factor in handing a surprise victory to Social Democrat (SPD) Gerhard Schroeder. Few experts think Merkel will depart radically from the traditionally cautious German stance on military action abroad - a pacifist strain that derives from the collective shame of having started World War Two and perpetrated the Holocaust.

A poll yesterday showed 69 percent of Germans were against a military strike in Syria and only 23 percent backed it. However, the BERLIN: In this Feb. 17, 2012 file picture then German President Christian Wulff, left, conservative Merkel and Foreign Minister announces his resignation during a statement at the Bellevue Palace in Berlin, Germany. Guido Westerwelle, a member of her Free At right is his wife Bettina Wulff. A German court says the country’s former president will Democrat (FDP) junior partners, ratcheted up go on trial on corruption charges in November. — AP the rhetoric this week. — Agencies

At the height of the scandal, Wulff was battered by almost daily media allegations that he had accepted favours, including other holidays and a home loan, from business friends when he was state premier.

He stepped down in February 2012 after

prosecutors had demanded his immunity be lifted. Wulff, who had been Chancellor Angela Merkel’s hand-picked choice for the post, was replaced by Lutheran pastor Joachim Gauck, a former rights activist in communist East Germany. Meanwhile, just four weeks before

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Missing Arizona teen found dead in Oregon PORTLAND: The father of an Arizona teenager whose body was found Monday evening near his abandoned SUV in the woods of southern Oregon said his son was “a young man who had a broken heart.” The body of Johnathan Croom, 18, was found about 1,000 feet from where his vehicle was found abandoned last week, Douglas County sheriff’s spokesman Dwes Hutson said in a statement.

Hutson said the Apache Junction, Ariz., youth’s death was being investigated as a suicide but he provided no additional

for our family.” The father said he had no specifics on a cause of death. The teen had talked with his parents about the book “Into the Wild” and told a friend he wanted to run away.

Croom’s SUV was found Wednesday in Riddle, a town of 1,200 people just off the state’s main north-south thoroughfare, Interstate 5. His mother, Monica Croom, had said he was traveling alone and on his way back from Seattle, where he visited a friend. The teen was due in Arizona on Aug. 17 to start college in Mesa.

information. He didn’t return a call for comment.

In a telephone interview from Oregon, David Croom said his son was grieving the end of a recent relationship with “someone back in Phoenix.”

“He was a young man who had a broken heart and headed out to try to find himself,” the elder Croom said. “We’re looking forward to finding out exactly what happened.”

He thanked everyone who helped search for his son and added, “Please pray

Hutson said earlier that text messages between Croom and a friend indicated Croom wanted to run away. Hutson said Croom also talked to his parents about Christopher McCandless, whose journey to Alaska was documented in the book “Into the Wild.” McCandless gave up his worldly goods to live in the Alaska wilderness, only to die there, perhaps from eating wild potatoes.

“I think we have kind of a combination there,” Hutson said earlier Monday. “He talked with his parents about ‘Into the

Wild,’ and in text messages we’ve looked at, he does specifically talk about running away, kind of just running away from his life.” Earlier this year, a 19-year-old from Oklahoma disappeared after talking to his parents about the same book and setting out to test himself against the Oregon wilderness.

Dustin Self’s truck was found in April on Steens Mountain in southeast Oregon. The last search for Self was in the spring, after snow melted, but it yielded no hints to his location. —AP

Mudslides kill 13 Fernand weakened to tropical depression

CALIFORNIA: Angel City fire fighters Cody Stephens, left, and Kevin Brown, center, wait as helicopter dumps water on hot spots battling the Rim Fire in the Stanislaus National Forest along Highway 120 near Yosemite National Park, Monday in, California. — AP

US wildfire expected to burn more deeper SAN FRANCISCO: A wildfire raging in the northwest part of Yosemite National Park was expected to advance farther into the park yesterday and continue to threaten a reser voir that supplies most of San Francisco’s water.

The so-called Rim Fire has charred more than 160,000 acres (64,749 hectares), which is larger than Chicago, most of that in the Stanislaus National Forest west of Yosemite.

But the blaze was expected to move east overnight and push deeper into Yosemite, as well as in areas to the north, said US Forest Service spokesman Trevor Augustino.

On Monday the blaze “made a good run to the park,” Augustino said. But firefighters had the blaze 20 percent contained toward the end of the day, up from 15 percent earlier Monday.

The weather yesterday was expected to remain hot with temperatures in the high 80s Fahrenheit and low 90s Fahrenheit (low 30s Celsius), with winds of 10 miles per hour to 15 miles per hour (16-24 km per hour) from the southwest, Augustino said.

The eastern flank of the fire on Monday burned to within a half mile (0.8 km) of Yosemite’s Hetch Hetchy reservoir on the Tuolumne River. It supplies 85 percent of the water consumed by 2.6 million people in San Francisco and several communities in three adjacent counties about 200 miles (320 km) to the west.

With the flames so close, ash fell on the surface of the reservoir on Monday. But water samples from the supply were testing clean by the late afternoon, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission spokeswoman Suzanne Gautier said.

“There continues to be no change or impact to water quality or delivery from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir,” the utilities commission said in a statement. If fallout from the blaze were to foul the Hetch Hetchy, its water could be diverted to a smaller Bay Area reservoir for filtration at a local treatment plant before delivery to customers, Gautier said.

The Rim Fire, named for a Stanislaus National Forest lookout point called Rim of the World, has already damaged two of the three hydropower generating stations linked to the Hetch Hetchy reservoir that supply electricity for all of San Francisco’s public facilities, such as hospitals and firehouses. The city has drawn on reserve power stored for emergencies and purchasing additional electricity on the open market to make up for the difference.

The blaze has destroyed about a dozen homes, and some 4,500 dwellings remained threatened. Most of the 1,200square-mile Yosemite National Park has remained open to the public. The cause of the wildfire remained under investigation.

More than 3,700 firefighters have been assigned to the blaze. — Reuters

BOGOTA: Protesters throw stones at riot police in Ubate, north of Bogota, Colombia, Monday. Hundreds of protesters clashed with police in support of farmers who had being blockading highways for a week for an assortment of demands that include reduced gasoline prices, increased subsidies and the cancellation of free trade agreements. — AP

VERACRUZ: Mudslides crashed through several homes in eastern Mexico on Monday, killing at least 13 people after a tropical storm pelted the state of Veracruz with heavy rains, officials said.

The storm named Fernand weakened to a tropical depression after making landfall just before midnight, unleashing a deluge that flooded streets, homes and businesses in some towns and caused rivers to overflow. Governor Javier Duarte, who had ordered the closure of schools before the storm came ashore, urged residents to heed any calls for evacuations and said the authorities remained on high alert.

Nine people died in the town of Yecuatla, three more in Tuxpan and one in Atzalan, he said. The deaths “were all caused by mudslides on their homes,” Duarte told a news conference.

The storm triggered 16 mudslides, while storm-related damage was reported in 22 municipalities, affecting more than 450 homes, said state civil protection director Noemi Guzman Lagunes.

More than 400 people were housed in 10 temporary shelters, she said. Authorities urged people who live near rivers to move to shelters as a precaution.

Duarte asked the federal government to declare an emergency in 92 municipalities, which would make them eligible for disaster recovery funds.

Duar te said Fernand was “atypical” because of how quickly it morphed into a tropical storm over the Gulf of Mexico late Sunday before making land-

fall. The storm carried maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour (50 miles per hour) when it made landfall, according to the US National Hurricane Center. In a final advisory at 2100 GMT, the Miami-based center said Fernand had dissipated 125 kilometers southwest of Tuxpan, Veracruz. But Duarte said the “emergency continues” amid the remnants of the storm, because

“our experience shows us that this type of weather phenomenon makes an impact with the amount of rain that it brings.”

The US hurricane center said Fernand and its remnants were expected to dump four to eight inches (10-20 centimeters) over Veracruz and five other states, with possible isolated amounts of 15 inches. Fernand is the fifth named storm this year in the

Atlantic, where the hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has forecast an unusually violent season of 13 to 19 named storms, including six to nine hurricanes. Mexico is also vulnerable to Pacific hurricanes. In July, Hurricane Erick left two people dead and 500 without homes. —AFP

TUXPAN: People mourn the death of relatives who died after a landslide caused by tropical storm Fernand swept their homes in Tuxpan, Veracruz State, on Monday. Mudslides crashed through several homes in eastern Mexico on Monday, killing at least 13 people after a tropical storm Fernand pelted the state of Veracruz with heavy rains, officials said. —AFP

Hitmen captured in plot to kill Maduro C AR AC AS: Venezuela said M onday it derailed a plot to kill President Nicolas Maduro, arresting two hitmen it said wanted to assassinate the leftist leader on orders from a Colombian conservative ex-president. Interior Minister Miguel Rodriguez said at a briefing that Caracas arrested the alleged hitmen, two Colombians, on August 13. The pair, Victor Johan Guache Mosquera and Erick Leonardo Huertas Rios, were part of “a group of 10 men who were coming to carr y out the murder of the president,” working with former Colombian president Alvaro Uribe, Rodriguez charged.

Maduro himself called on US President Barack Obama to say if he ordered or knew of the alleged assassination plan. Maduro said that besides Colombia, it was hatched by far-right Venezuelan opposition figures in Miami. Maduro is a frequent and fiery critic of Washington, as was his predecessor,

the late Hugo Chavez.

“Is President Obama so weak that decisions are made for him in the United States to kill a Latin American head of state without his k nowing it?” M aduro said to reporters. The pair detained were part of a support team for a “highly experienced hitman” identified by the alias David, whom they reported to directly and who was to personally carry out the assassination, the minister said.

David, Rodriguez charged, was taking orders from a Colombian who is in prison, Oscar Alcantara Gonzalez, alias “Gancho Mosco”, who allegedly works for Uribe.

“We have no doubt that Alvaro Uribe Velez has knowledge of all these things ...

And we are not the least bit surprised that he is the one giving orders through operatives,” Rodriguez alleged.

The Colombian ex-president, who held

office from 2002-2010, vehemently denied the plot, branding the allegations “slurs.” In an interview with Colombian television, Uribe said he would rather talk about “important issues and not the slurs of the dictatorship.” Venezuelan opposition leader Henrique Capriles, who lost the April presidential vote to Maduro and is contesting the results, shrugged off the alleged plot, saying: “Nobody believes that tall tale.”

Rodriguez in June alleged that Maduro was targeted by a separate assassination plot launched from Colombia and the United States.

Venezuela made frequent allegations of assassination plots against the late leftist President Hugo Chavez and has continued to do so under Maduro, his handpicked successor. Official results gave Maduro, 50, a razor-thin margin of just 1.5 percent over Capriles, 41, in the April 14 election.— AFP

Midwest heat wave prompts early school dismissals LINCOLN: An unusual, late -summer heat wave has enveloped much of the Midwest, putting schools and sports events on hold.

Schools in Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, the Dakotas and Illinois let out early on Monday as temperatures crept toward the mid-90s beyond in some places. After-school sports practices and evening games were canceled in St. Paul, Minn., and misting stations kept people cool at the M innesota State Fair, where about 90 fairgoers had been treated for heat-related illnesses over the weekend.

The heat wave is supposed to last through much of the week , the National Weather Service said. Heat of this magnitude is unusual for this time of year, but not unprecedented. In Des Moines, Iowa, temperatures on Aug. 26 have reached 100 degrees at least six times since 1881. The weather service said South Dakota was experiencing its hottest final week of August on record. School districts took precautions to avoid putting students and teachers in sweaty - and possibly dangerous - situations. I n central Iowa, Marshalltown Community School District administrators canceled afternoon preschool classes on Monday and Tuesday and were planning to release other students two hours

early. Parts of all 10 of district buildings have air conditioning, but some rooms aren’t connected. “ The buildings can heat up pretty fast, especially when you have kids in there,” district spokesman Jason Staker said. “It’s not a good environment for students or teachers.”

Five elementar y schools in Fargo, Nor th Dakota, canceled classes through Wednesday because the buildings weren’t fully air-conditioned. Temperatures inside them on Sunday ranged from 85 degrees to 90 degrees, Fargo Schools Superintendent Jeff Schatz said.

In South Dakota, the Sioux Falls School District continued with classes as scheduled, b u t s p o k e s wo m a n D e e A n n K o n r a d s a i d teachers kept window blinds closed and turned off lights in classrooms. The district was also prepared to move students into co o l e r ro o m s a t n e a r by c h u rc h e s a n d a Christian school, she said.

S c h o o l a d m i n i s t r a to r s i n t h e we s te r n Nebraska town of Alliance decided to send students home early after local forecasters p re d i c te d te m p e r a t u re s i n e xce s s o f 9 0 degrees. Some classes in the 1,600-student district are held on the third floor, and temperatures rise when students fill the room.

“It can get uncomfortable even when the temperatures are in the upper 80s,” superintendent Troy Unzicker said. Minneapolis students attended school all day, but administrators canceled after-school activities and distributed 750 cases of water to schools.

Officials also sent industrial fans to the 18 buildings that lack air conditioning, district spokeswoman R achel Hicks said. Parents were advised to dress their kids in light clothing, while staffers watched for symptoms of heat-related illnesses. With temperatures again forecast in the mid-90s in Minneapolis, classes Tuesday were going ahead as planned.

The district said parents could keep their children at home if they felt it necessary. In Des Moines, organizers of a downtown farmers market set for Wednesday postponed the event out concern over the extreme heat The Iowa Department of Public Health issued a statewide advisory for vulnerable populations, including young children and the elderly. Sometimes our natural defense against ex treme heat - sweat - won’t suffice, Dr. Patricia Quinlisk said. “Especially when the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly,” she said. —AP

MINNEAPOLIS: Parent liaison Lisa Horn distributes ice pops to students in the Hiawatha Elementary School cafeteria on the first day of school, in Minneapolis. The school is without air conditioning and struggled through the first day of classes amidst high temperatures. — AP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

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

Afghan Taleban kill 12 government workers Taleban increasingly targeting civilians

PUTHUMATHALAN: UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay, center, prepares to leave after talking to ethnic Tamil war survivors at Puthumathalan, Sri Lanka, yesterday. Survivors of Sri Lanka’s civil war have complained to Pillay about missing relatives, military land grabs and a life without basic facilities more than four years after the end of the quarter-century war. — AP

Relatives of Lanka’s missing vent grievances at UN JAFFNA: Protesters in Sri Lanka criticised the United Nations for a second day yesterday during a visit by UN Human Rights Commissioner Navi Pillay who is assessing rights in a country still divided by a 27-year war.

Angr y members of the majority Sinhalese community protested in the capital, Colombo, on Monday, calling on Pillay to get out of the country and stop criticising its rights record.

Pillay visited the northern town of Jaffna yesterday, which was at the heart of a bid by members ethnic minority Tamil guerrillas to break away and where protesters criticised the United Nations for not protecting them.

“The UN failed in its responsibility,” said Ananthi Sasitharan, a 42-year mother of three girls, who holds out hope her missing husband is alive, perhaps in a secret detention camp.

The husband, Velayutham Sasitharan, was a top Tamil rebel leader. Sasitharan was demonstrating with about 300 other people outside the town’s main library where the Pillay had a meeting. They said they had protested after failing in their bid to meet Pillay to discuss their grievances over disappearances and what they see as land-grabs by the military.

The Sri Lanka government battled separatist Tamil guerrillas from 1983 until finally defeating them in 2009. Tens of thousands of civilians were killed in the final months of the war, a UN panel said earlier, as government troops advanced on the rebels’ last stronghold. Many hundreds of people, most of them Tamils like Sasitharan’s husband, simply disappeared.

Sasitharan said her husband had surrendered to the military on May 18, 2009, a day before the government declared

victory over the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam rebel group.

“I am confident that he is alive. He is somewhere in a secret detention centre,” she told Reuters.

Pillay’s seven-day visit comes after a second United States-sponsored U.N. resolution in March this year urged Sri Lanka to carry out credible investigations into killings and disappearances during the war, especially in the brutal final stages.

A U.N. panel said earlier it had “credible allegations” that Sri Lankan troops and rebels both carried out atrocities and war crimes, and singled out the government for most of the responsibility for the deaths.

Sri Lanka has come under international pressure to bring to book those accused of war crimes and boost efforts to reconcile a polarised country. But it has rejected the accusations of rights abuses.

In July, President Mahinda Rajapaksa, under pressure from the United Nations and the West to address the question of rights abuses during the war, ordered an inquiry into mass disappearances.

According to human rights activists in Jaffna, more than 700 people disappeared in the final phase of the war between 2006 and 2009. Some said loved ones had been abducted by unidentified men in white vans.

Sasitharan and other relatives of the missing can only hope. Sri Lanka’s military spokesman, Ruwan Wanigasuriya, said he had no information about Sasitharan’s husband. “There are lists of all the detainees and the released people after the rehabilitation ... There are records of all of them,” he said. “Anybody can get them from police.” — Reuters

Mumbai gang-rape suspects feared in their slum home MUMBAI: As Mumbai reels over the gangrape of a young photographer in the heart of the city last week, angry neighbours of the arrested suspects describe a gang of jobless youths known for petty theft and drinking.

The five men are accused of repeatedly raping the 22-year-old woman and attacking her male colleague in an abandoned mill compound in central Mumbai, which was known as a haven for drink and drug addicts.

While smart neighbourhoods of luxury apartments, office blocks and malls are close to the scene of the crime, most of the accused gang members hailed from nearby slums where they earned themselves an unfavourable reputation.

“They were local criminals,” said Ajit

Pevekar, a 32-year-old neighbour and community worker. The eldest suspect, 27-yearold Mohammed Salim Ansari, was the last to be arrested on Sunday in New Delhi after fleeing from his home in eastern Mumbai. His four alleged accomplices, aged between 18 and 24 according to police, were from nearer the mill in slums surrounding Dhobi Ghat, a site famed as the world’s largest outdoor laundry.

The men have not yet been formally charged and have not commented on the allegations against them. Unlike the industrious washermen of Dhobi Ghat, three of the suspects known to Pevekar “had no regular work, were playing cards all the time, and all of them drank”, he told AFP, adding that the men would regularly snatch people’s chains or purses.—AFP

HEART: The Afghan Taleban executed 12 Afghan workers in two provinces after accusing them of working for the government, officials said yesterday, the latest in a series of brutal attacks on civilians this year.

The Taleban are increasingly targeting civilians seen to be cooperating with the government, raising concerns about the prospects for peace after most foreign troops pull out next year.

President Hamid Karzai condemned the killings with a swipe at Pakistan which he has been visiting for two days. “The killing of innocent engineers and workers shows that the Taleban and their foreign masters want Afghanistan to be a impoverished and underdeveloped country forever,” he said in apparent reference to Islamabad, among others, which he has often accused of playing a double game in the 12-year-old war.

Karzai on Monday stressed the need for Pakistan’s help in arranging peace talks with the Taleban in a meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.

In Herat, one of Afghanistan’s most stable provinces whose small but promising private sector is driving the national economy, the Taleban kidnapped and killed four engineers and two workers on Sunday, Governor Fazlullah Wahidi said.

The men, four engineers and two trainers and all Afghan,

KABUL: Afghans help a man mourning over his brothers’ death, south of Kabul, Afghanistan, yesterday. Afghan officials say insurgents have shot and killed a dozen civilians, including six aid workers working on government projects, in two separate incidents. — AP worked for a World Bank-funded programme created by the Karzai government that aims to improve local project management.

“We had gathered some elders to meet the Taleban to tell them that they ... worked for everyone in the country, but the Taleban killed them before they arrived for negotiations,” Wahidi said.

The killings came within hours

of the discovery of the bodies of six Afghans in the restive eastern province of Paktia. The six, all drivers, were killed by Taleban because they were working with the government, deputy provincial governor Abdul Wali Sehee said. Elections are expected to be held in Afghanistan in April to replace Karzai, who came to power in 2001 after US-led forces toppled the Taleban.

Taleban executions of workers associated with the Karzai administration or the international community are not rare, but recent attacks have typically occurred in the restive eastern and southern parts of the country. About two weeks ago, eight people who worked for Afghan security forces were executed in violent Ghazni on their way to Kabul by bus. —Rreuters

Sonia Gandhi back home from hospital NEW DELHI: Sonia Gandhi, the president of India’s ruling Congress party who is widely seen as the country’s most powerful politician, was back home from hospital on Tuesday after she took ill during a marathon parliament debate, officials said.

Gandhi, 66, was led limping out of the lower house on Monday evening by her son and colleagues, and then taken by car to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences hospital in New Delhi.

A Congress party official said Gandhi had a touch of viral fever and was fine now. “Madam Gandhi is home now. She is perfectly fine,” the official said. The Italian-born politician, who has led her party to two successive terms governing the world’s largest democracy, has played a slightly reduced public role since being treated abroad for an unknown illness in 2011. Still, she is the world’s sixth most powerful woman, Forbes magazine said last year. The party is usually very secretive about Gandhi’s health, but several media reports said in 2011 that she had been treated for cancer at New York’s SloanKettering Cancer Center. On Monday, Gandhi participated in a parliament debate on a scheme to provide cheap food to more than two-thirds of India’s poor - one of her pet projects - when she felt unwell.

Gandhi and her son, Rahul, are banking on the nearly $20-billion food security programme to boost the Congress party’s prospects ahead of a difficult election next year and the party’s campaign is built around the two members of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty.

Television images showed the normally strong-looking leader trembling as she read out from a clutch of papers a short speech on the food security bill, one of the world’s largest welfare programmes and one that Gandhi has insisted on to ensure India’s poor are not left behind in its emergence as an economic power.

“It’s time to take the historic step,” she said. “It

NEW DELHI: India’s Congress Party President Sonia Gandhi (2R) is supported by Minister of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Kumari Selja (L) as she leaves Parliament in New Delhi late yesterday. The chief of India’s ruling Congress party Sonia Gandhi was released from hospital yesterday, hours after being admitted with fever, cold and a headache, a doctor and colleagues said. — AFP is my fervent appeal that we shall pass this unanimously.” Critics say the programme will strain government finances further at a time when the economy has slowed and the country’s external imbalance has deteriorated, with the rupee currency languishing at record lows.

The food security bill was passed two hours after Gandhi and her son left parliament. It must now go to the upper house.

Gandhi became Congress party president some years after the 1991 assassination of her husband, former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. She declined to become prime minister

despite pressure from the party after the first victory in 2004, and chose the quiet economist Manmohan Singh for the top job. However, she arguably wields more power over policy than the prime minister.

Her son is now leading the party’s preparations for a national election - due to be held in less than a year. The Gandhi family, descended from India’s first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, enjoys a status similar to royalty in the country of 1.2 billion. They are not related to independence hero Mahatma Gandhi, a close ally of Nehru. — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

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

Taiwan women put their eggs on ice HSINCHU: Caught between traditional expectations and career pressures, working women in Taiwan are increasingly opting to freeze their eggs at fertility clinics as they postpone marriage and motherhood.

Women play a big part in Taiwan’s workforce, trailing only New Zealand and Australia for female employment among 14 countries in Asia, a recent report by MasterCard showed.

A slowdown in the economy has made job security an even more pressing priority. That has been a factor in pushing the East Asian island’s average marriage age to 30 these days, from 24 in the 1980s, and in driving the interest in egg freezing.

“I was not sure when my ovaries would start degenerating but I was sure that I would probably

marry late and I was sure that I wanted to become a mother,” said Linn Kuo, 34, who chose to freeze her eggs three years ago.

Kuo, a manager at Cisco System Taiwan Ltd, has a well-paid job that allows her to work from home.

While her career has had a smooth trajectory, Kuo said she has not been as lucky in her love live.

After her mother died, she realised the importance of having the support of children in later life.

“I already had my conclusion,” she said. “So I did some research and decided to freeze my eggs.”

Lai Hsing-hua, the clinic director at e-Stork Reproduction Center in the city of Hsinchu, said he realised the need for egg-freezing services when many patients asked for egg donors after a late mar-

riage. “We thought if they had frozen their eggs earlier, maybe they wouldn’t need to use donated eggs,” he said. “That’s why we combined in-vitro fertilisation with the idea of prevention - prevent them from using others’ eggs after their fertility has deteriorated.” The clinic now gets more than 100 phone calls a month asking about egg freezing. Five years ago, it did just 20 of the procedures. It handled more than 70 cases in 2011, more than 50 last year and already more than 40 in the first six months of this year. The technology has matured and the embryo now has a high survival rate with egg freezing, Lai said. The service costs around 80,000 Taiwan dollars ($2,680) and the whole process of retrieving the egg takes about 20 minutes.

Chen Fen-ling, a professor of social work at National Taipei University, said societal pressures were causing women to delay marrying and starting a family. “Married women are like candles burning at both ends,” she said. “We say that women work two jobs. They make money with a daytime job but, when they go back home, they take care of their children and parents-in-law. This pressure often makes women hesitate when making the decision about marriage.” Those realities about career, marriage and motherhood are reflected in a woefully low birthrate.

Taiwan is tied with Hong Kong in third-last place globally in terms of the average number of children born per woman, just above Macau and Singapore, the CIA World Factbook says. — Reuters

Bo trial reveals lifestyles of China’s rich and infamous Xu paid $3.2 million for a villa in French Riviera

SEOUL: Lee Han Soo (center), 78, checks his application with an official from the Red Cross in Seoul to see if it was possible to take part in upcoming reunions with relatives in North Korea, while Choi Jang Dong (right), 75, waits his turn, at the administration office for separated families at the Red Cross building in Seoul yesterday. — AFP

China arrests British, American investigators BEIJING: Beijing is tightening control over trade in information that can help companies find their way through China’s secretive business world. Yesterday, police announced the arrest of two corporate investigators, a Briton and an American who work in Shanghai, on charges of improperly selling personal information about Chinese citizens.

Peter Humphrey and Yingzeng Yu, a married couple, are part of an industry of investigators who help corporate clients screen potential partners and employees or watch for embezzlement and other employee misconduct. “The opaque nature of the investigation and detention of the Humphreys is troubling at best and puts a serious chilling effect on legitimate efforts to investigate even benign, public information,” said James Zimmerman, managing partner of the Beijing office of the law firm Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton.

Chinese leaders want the prosperity that comes from free-market competition but see control over information as a tool to protect the Communist Party’s monopoly on power.

The government operates an extensive surveillance network to track China’s public and limits access to data on companies and individuals.

Since last year it has further narrowed what can be obtained.

Other companies that supply information already are under pressure. In January, four Chinese employees of a unit of Dun & Bradstreet Corp. were sentenced to prison on charges of improperly buying personal data of Chinese citizens. A string of Chinese companies have been hit by disclosures by investigators about possible financial misconduct that caused their share prices to plunge.

Possibly in response to that, regulations issued in February 2012 prohibit government agencies from disclosing financial or commercial information about a company without its permission. That made it harder for companies to investigate potential partners or acquisition targets to find liabilities or conflicts of interest.

Known as “due diligence,” it is a common practice in other countries.

Several dozen reports prepared by Humphrey and Yu for corporate clients contained information that “seriously violated the legitimate rights of citizens,” the Shanghai police department said in a statement. It said they were formally arrested on Aug. 16.

That included home addresses and information on family members, real estate and vehicles, the statement said. It said they were sold to clients including manufacturers, law firms and financial institutions.

Such information can reveal links between people and establish who controls a business.

That can be essential in a Chinese business world dominated by behind-the-scenes personal connections. Also last year, communist leaders were embarrassed by news reports that disclosed details of the family wealth of Xi

Jinping, the new ruling party leader, and retiring Premier Wen Jiabao.

Humphrey’s and Yu’s firm, ChinaWhys Ltd., says on its website it “specializes in discreet risk mitigation solutions, consulting and investigation services” aimed at “walking multinationals through the labyrinth of opportunity, risk and unfamiliar cultural environment.” Humphrey, a former reporter for the Reuters news agency, has worked as an investigator for the past 14 years in Asia, focusing on white-collar crime prevention, fraud investigation and crisis mitigation, according to the website. It says Yu has worked for or advised companies in the United States, Hong Kong and China in technology, medical products and other industries over a 25-year business career.

Humphrey and Yu are accused of paying 800 to 2,000 yuan ($130 to $320) per item of personal information, the official Xinhua News Agency said. A report about the case on the state television midday news showed two people in handcuffs with their faces blurred.

“To obtain this information, I sometimes used illegal means,” said the man, a Westerner, speaking in Mandarin. “I want to apologize to the Chinese government.” The latest case could mark an escalation in enforcement against foreign as well as Chinese investigators.

People of Chinese ancestry have been prosecuted in the past on charges of industrial spying or other corporate misconduct but Humphrey appears to be the first non-ethnicChinese to face such treatment.

In January, the four former executives of Dun & Bradstreet’s Shanghai Roadway D&B Marketing Services Co. were sentenced by a Shanghai court to up to two years in prison.

The company was fined 1 million yuan ($160,000). The British Embassy in Beijing confirmed last week that Humphrey was arrested but gave no details of charges. The embassy said it was providing unspecified consular assistance to his family.

The American Embassy in Beijing said earlier that diplomats visited Yu on July 16. A spokesman said Tuesday he had no additional information. The detentions coincided with the announcement in July of an investigation into possible bribery of doctors by employees of pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline.

That prompted suggestions their case might be linked to Glaxo, but yesterday’s announcement made no mention of that.

Glaxo declined yesterday to comment. The announcement said Shanghai police are investigating 126 people on suspicion of improperly gathering personal information and have detained 35.

Chinese companies have reacted angrily to disclosures of information by investigators. In the highest-profile case, a US firm, Muddy Waters Research, accused Chinese forestry company Sino-Forest Corp. of exaggerating the value of its assets. — AP

JINAN: The family’s safes held more cash than an average Chinese might see in a lifetime. Their French villa was held through shell companies designed to avoid taxes and publicity. The son gallivanted around the world at huge expense.

The sensational corruption trial of Bo Xilai exposed the lavish lifestyle of one of China’s most power ful politicians, gripping the Communist-run country where mounting inequality has stoked public discontent.

The bribery and embezzlement charges against Bo, until last year the head of the megacity of Chongqing and one of China’s top-25 leaders, amount to 26.8 million yuan ($4.4 million).

And that only touches on a few business dealings in the early part of the 64-year-old’s career. Bo defended himself against allegations from his wife Gu Kailai that she once saw $80,000 in bribe money by revealing the amount of ready cash they kept at home.

“In the shared safe there were hundreds of thousands of yuan, so how could she know the money she took out was from me?” he said, according to court accounts.

The ruling party mounted an apparently unusually open trial following its most explosive political scandal in decades. The court in the eastern city of Jinan posted lengthy transcripts on its Twitter-like Weibo account each dayalthough their completeness and accuracy could not be verified.

Bo was charged with bribery amounting to 21.8 million yuan, embezzlement of 5.0 million yuan and abuse of power, all of which he vehemently denied during the five-day trial.

He is accused of accepting 20.7 million yuan in bribes from businessman Xu Ming, who testified for the prosecution.

The court heard that Xu paid for a $3.2 million villa in the French Riviera resort of Cannes after Gu said she wanted to buy it. The six-bedroom mansion with a pool, shaded terrace and colonnaded balconies sits in an exclusive neighbourhood overlooking the Mediterranean.

It was allegedly funded by Xu through three different companies and managed by others, so that neither Bo nor his family appeared on records as owners of the property.

The complex setup was “to avoid tax” and because “I didn’t want to bring any bad influence on (Bo)”, according to Gu’s testimony.

Tang Xiaolin, another businessman, allegedly gave Bo 1.1 million yuan including the $80,000 seen by Gu after profiting from a land deal the politician helped facilitate.

Gu would grab thick wads of yuan and US dollars from safes in the couple’s homes during three trips back to China a year from England,

JINAN: In this file photo taken Thursday, a website blog run by the Jinan Intermediate People’s Court shows a picture of Bo Xilai attending the trial, near barricades outside the court in Jinan, in eastern China’s Shandong province. — AP where she lived with their only son Bo Guagua.

Both bribery accusations stemmed from Bo’s years overseeing Dalian city and its northeastern province Liaoning in the 1990s and early 2000s.

He became national commerce minister in 2004 and Chongqing’s leader in 2007.

Their son meanwhile attended top-notch schools and universities with hefty tuition fees including Harrow in Britain, Oxford, Harvard and, from this autumn, Columbia law school in New York. Xu paid for Guagua to travel to Germany for the 2006 World Cup, as well as Italy, Latin America and Africa, and for toys such as an 80,000-yuan Segway scooter, the court heard.

Guagua charged $50,000 to his credit cardpaid off by Xu-brought back a month’s worth of exotic meat from Africa and in 2011 treated 40 Harvard classmates to an expenses-paid trip to China. At the same time in Chongqing, Bo-who during the trial admitted to having had extramarital affairs-mounted Maoist revivalist rallies chanting “Serve the People”.

Some Chinese would be surprised if a politician of Bo’s stature had not obtained even more wealth, said Steve Tsang, a China politics expert at the University of Nottingham in Britain.

“I think for a lot of people, the question would be, could this be it?” he said. “Surely someone in Bo’s position could and would have

enjoyed much more than what was revealed in court.” Many Chinese have come to expect illgotten riches of their leaders and Bo’s supporters may be willing to overlook his actions, said David Goodman, of the University of Sydney.

“Given that they’re all at it, why shouldn’t you support people you think have views that you think are acceptable?” he said.

“They don’t make a complicated calculus about, well, he’s corrupt but he’s for us-but that’s what it comes down to.” Official corruption is rampant across China, as the leadership has acknowledged this year while vowing to crack down. Multiple examples of excess have been revealed over recent months, even among lowlevel civil servants. A county official in the southern province of Guangdong was found to own 22 properties worth as much as 40 million yuan, at a time when homes are becoming increasingly unaffordable for many.

But far greater wealth at the highest levels was exposed by Western media last year-and proved so sensitive that the outlets’ websites have since remained blocked inside China.

President Xi Jinping’s family was reported by Bloomberg to have investments worth $376 million, and the New York Times said former premier Wen Jiabao’s relatives had controlled assets worth $2.7 billion. — AFP

China sees no basis for Japan talks; Islands dispute simmers BEIJING: China yesterday brushed aside calls from Japan to hold a leaders’ summit as “grandstanding”, while Japan’s finance minister said Tokyo should make clear it would use its navy to defend islands at the core of a dispute with Beijing.

Ties between the world’s second- and third-largest economies have been strained for months because of a row over the islands, known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China, as well as disputes over the countries’ bitter wartime past.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe is keen to improve ties and has called for dialogue with China, though he has rejected any conditions on talks. China has shown no inclination to respond to the overtures.

“A meeting between leaders is not simply for the sake of shaking hands and taking pictures, but to resolve problems,” Chinese deputy foreign minister Li Baodong told reporters ahead of a G20 summit next week that both Chinese President Xi Jinping and Abe will attend.

“If Japan wants to arrange a meeting to resolve problems, they should stop with the empty talk and doing stuff for show,” Li said, when asked about the possibility of a meeting of Chinese and Japanese lead-

ers on the sidelines of the G20.

Aircraft and ships from both countries have played cat-and-mouse games near the islands for months, ratcheting up tension.

Japan’s coastguard said on Tuesday three Chinese coastguard vessels had briefly entered what Japan considers its territorial waters near the disputed islands. China said the trip was a routine patrol in its own waters.

Japan’s finance minister, Taro Aso, who doubles as Abe’s deputy, said the government must make clear its intent to defend the islands or risk what happened when Argentine troops landed on the Falkland islands in 1982, triggering war with Britain.

“When Britain deployed aircraft carriers to the Falkland Islands, it did not convey its intentions to protect the islands. Argentine saw that (Britain) had no intention of protecting the Falklands and so invaded,” Aso said in a lecture to parliamentarians in Yokohama, near Tokyo.

“Fighting ability, national consensus and informing other countries (of our intention to use force) can act as a deterrent only if these three are all present,” Aso said.

“We must clearly convey our intention to protect the Senkaku with the Maritime Self-Defense Forces. In that sense, we cannot avoid increasing defense spending ... This is the reality we’re in while facing the situation in the East China Sea.” The legacy of Japanese militarism in the 1930s and 1940s also haunts Sino-Japanese ties. China’s Li said denials by some Japanese politicians of the country’s wartime past do not help. “Under these conditions, how can we organise the kind of leaders’ summit that Japan wants?” Li said.

China reacted angrily this month when Abe sent an offering to a shrine for war dead, which also honours war criminals, while cabinet members visited it in person. China suffered under Japanese rule, with parts of the country occupied from the 1930s.

Japanese leaders have apologised in the past but many in China doubt their sincerity, partly because of contradictory remarks by politicians.

“What Japan has to do now is show vision and courage, properly face up to history and take a proper attitude and real actions to get rid of the obstacles which exist for the healthy development of bilateral ties,” Li said. — Reuters

Japan postpones launch of new, rocket TOKYO: Japan yesterday canceled the launch of a new rocket it hopes will be a cheaper and more efficient way of putting satellites into space, saying it suffered a problem that aborted the countdown 19 seconds before it was supposed to blast off.

Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency official Yuko Hoshikawa said an automatic countdown for the three-stage Epsilon rocket stopped when an irregularity in the rocket posture was detected. No further details were immediately available on the scrapped launch from a space center on the southern Japan island of Kyushu.

JAXA President Naoki Okumura said the cause of the problem is under investigation and that he could not say how soon the launch could be rescheduled.

“Finding the cause is our first and foremost task,” he told a televised news conference. “We must examine what happened today, and our next launch depends on what we find out.”

The Epsilon is the first new rocket design for Japan since the H2A was introduced in 2001. The H2A continues to be Japan’s primary rocket but officials are hoping development of the Epsilon will lead to improvements in the much more costly H2A program as well. Japan hopes to compete more aggressively in the international rocketlaunching business.

“We are so sorry we failed to live up to the expectations,” Okumura said. Japan’s space policy minister Ichita Yamamoto said Tuesday’s launch cancellation was unfortunate but that does not change Japan’s policy to set Epsilon as a centerpiece of Japanese space business.

“I hope the cause is promptly identified and necessary measures are taken so that we can see a successful launch as soon as possible,” he said. Yesterday’s rocket was to carry the SPRINT-A, the first space telescope specifically designed to observe other planets. It is

to be used to watch Venus, Mars and Jupiter.

According to JAXA, the Epsilon costs about 3.8 billion yen ($40 million), one-third the cost of the H2A. The rocket is about 24 meters (80 feet) tall, half the size of the H2A, and can be assembled and readied for launch in just one week, one -sixth of the time required for the H2A. The Epsilon rocket, which uses a solid-fuel propellant, is meant to broaden the range of space missions Japan is able to perform and lower the hurdles to space by streamlining the launch process. JAXA says the rocket’s extensive use of computer technology means monitoring work that once required a fully staffed control room can now be done essentially on a single laptop. “If we hope to make the access to space much easier, more sophisticated factors are required,” project manager Yasuhiro Morita said in a pre-launch statement. “We are trying to make rocket launches much simpler and ordinary events.” — AP

KAGOSHIMA: Spectators keep eyes on the Epsilon rocket that stays on the launch pad after its countdown at the Uchinoura Space Center in Kimotsuki town, Kagoshima, western Japan, yesterday. Japan has postponed the launch of a new rocket it hopes will be a cheaper and more efficient way of putting satellites into space. — AP

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

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Issues

US could look beyond UN in any Syrian hit

By Louis Charbonneau n the face of a UN Security Council deadlocked on Syria, the United States and its allies could seek other means of legitimizing any retaliatory strike they launch against Syria’s government for last week’s alleged gas attack on civilians. The 15nation council has been split on Syria since 2011. Russia, President Bashar Al-Assad’s ally, and China have vetoed three resolutions condemning Assad and calling for punitive steps against his government.

But the United States has intervened in conflicts before without Security Council backing, most notably in the Kosovo War in 1999, and could do so again. Any strike by the United States, Britain, France and others without a clear UN mandate would likely infuriate Russia, which could be expected to denounce it as illegal. Richard Haas, president of the US Council on Foreign Relations think tank, rejected the idea - suggested

by Russia - that a Western attack on Syria would need UN approval. “The UN Security Council is not the sole or unique custodian about what is legal and what is legitimate, and, as many have pointed out, it was bypassed at the time of Kosovo,” he told reporters in a conference call. “To say only the UN Security Council can make something legitimate seems to me to be a position that cannot be supported because it would allow in this case a country like Russia to be the arbiter of international law and, more broadly, international relations,” Haas said.

Legitimacy for a strike on Syria, Haas said, could come from a “coalition of the willing” of individual countries that support retaliation against Assad to demonstrate that the use of weapons of mass destruction will not be tolerated. That coalition could include Arab countries and have formal backing from NATO or other institutions, he said. US and European officials have cited NATO’s bombing campaign intended to pressure Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic to withdraw troops and militia from Kosovo. In that case, the United States bypassed the Security Council to avoid a Russian veto and got backing instead from NATO. The Arab League could also formally endorse military action against Syria as it did with Libya in 2011, said Richard Gowan, a foreign policy expert at New York University. But it might not be easy to secure a consensus in the Arab League and NATO. “Some members of both blocs would have qualms about doing so, and the diplomacy could get messy,” Gowan said.

US President Barack Obama has tried to distinguish himself from his predecessor, George W Bush, on foreign policy by presenting himself as more multilateralist. He no doubt would like some kind of international legitimacy if the United States attacked Syria. But the tough tone of comments on Syria by Secretary of State John Kerry and strong suggestions that US naval forces are moving into position might mean Obama will go ahead with an attack on Assad’s forces no matter what.

White House spokesman Jay Carney on Monday deflected questions about whether Obama would seek authorization from the United Nations or the US Congress for military strikes on Syria, saying the president had made no decision on the US response. Carney repeatedly said that Syria’s government had conducted a “clear violation of an international norm” by allegedly using chemical weapons against civilians. Russia and Assad blame the rebels for the attack that killed hundreds in Damascus suburbs.

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KOSOVO, IRAQ, LIBYA Obama has some other options for legitimizing a retaliatory strike against Syria, apart from securing formal NATO and Arab League endorsements. Article 51 of the UN Charter speaks of “the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs against a Member of the United Nations.”

In theory, Turkey or Israel could ask the United States and its allies for “self-defense” assistance in light of the cross-border violence the two countries have faced during Syria’s two-year civil war. But Article 51, UN diplomats say, might be difficult to construe as the basis for a response to an attack that did not directly affect any of Syria’s neighbors, the United States or its allies. There is also the “Uniting for Peace” resolution of 1950, which allows for the UN General Assembly to call an emergency session to take up matters related to international peace and security when the Security Council is deadlocked due to a disagreement between its permanent members. That resolution enabled the United States and its allies to thwart Soviet attempts to use its Security Council veto to cut off support for UN-mandated forces in the 1950-53 Korean War. UN diplomats say the United States would most likely not turn to “Uniting for Peace.” But it is possible Washington could seek political support from the General Assembly in the form of a non-binding resolution to help legitimize action on Syria.

While it would not carry the legal weight of a Security Council mandate, an assembly resolution could demonstrate that most of the world supports retaliation - provided Washington secured sufficient support in the 193-nation body. —Reuters

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US strike would aim to punish Assad, not turn tide of war

By Peter Apps ny strike by the United States and its allies on Syria will probably aim to teach President Bashar Al-Assad - and Iran - a lesson on the risks of defying the West, but not try to turn the tide of the civil war. US and European officials say a short, sharp attack perhaps entirely with cruise missiles - is the preferred response to what they believe is Assad’s responsibility for a chemical weapons attack on rebel-held areas last week.

If such a strike goes ahead, President Barack Obama’s administration will have to select its targets with extreme care as it tries to deter not only Assad but also Syria’s ally Iran over its nuclear program. “The administration has to decide what its objective is - punishment to show that there is a price and to re-establish a deterrent, or to change the balance of power in Syria,” said Dennis Ross, a top White House adviser on the Middle East until late 2011. “I suspect it will be geared towards the former.”

NATO air strikes in 2011 helped to change the course of the Libyan civil war, allowing rebels to overthrow Muammar Gaddafi, but Obama is unlikely to opt for something similar in Syria. US officials said the Pentagon has submitted a range of possible attack plans for Syria to the White House, and analysts believe the scope would be modest. “I think it will happen but it will be minimal, just enough to show the world that we did something,” said Hayat Alvi, lecturer in Middle Eastern studies at the US Naval War College.

“The broader goal is not to get the US involved too deeply - and especially not to allow any boots on the ground.” Defense

A

Secretary Chuck Hagel said the US military is ready to act immediately should Obama order action. The United States and its allies were strengthening their forces in the region even before hundreds of people were killed in rebelheld suburbs of Damascus last Wednesday.

Syria has blamed the rebels but Washington, London and Paris say they have little doubt it was a chemical strike by Assad’s forces.

Without some action soon, officials worry that Assad will feel he can resort to chemical weapons again with impunity - a year after Obama declared their use a “red line” that, if crossed, would require strong action. Some also fear inaction in Syria could cast doubt over other US “red lines”, encouraging Iran to pursue a nuclear program which Tehran says is peaceful but the United States and its allies including Israel believe aims to produce weapons. Any failure to strike Syria could also prompt Israel to take matters into its own hands by attacking Iranian nuclear facilities, causing yet more upheaval in an already highly unstable region.

CHOOSING TARGETS Choosing targets is fraught with danger.

The most likely, officials say, would be Assad’s command and control facilities, air defenses and any part of his chemical arsenal they believe can be attacked safely. What must be avoided is any action that, while designed to punish the use of chemical weapons, perversely ends up releasing dangerous materials into the environment. Likewise if any technicians from Russia, a major arms supplier to Assad, were killed, this would inflame already troubled Western relations with Moscow.

Defense sources say US commanders want

overwhelming force and a robust regional coalition available to deter any Syrian retaliation. Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said yesterday that last week’s attack was a “crime against humanity” which should not go unanswered. Current and former Western officials, including those directly involved in policy, say Syria’s sophisticated air defenses and worries about the risk of casualties among allied aircrew meant the cruise missile strike was now most likely.

A “stand-off ” attack could be launched from US warships or aircraft firing missiles without entering Syrian airspace. The United States says it has raised the number of destroyers that carry cruise missiles in the Mediterranean to four. Its most powerful ship in the region - the aircraft carrier USS Harry S Truman - left the Mediterranean on Aug, 18, passing south through the Suez Canal into the Red Sea, although it could still be within striking range.

Defense sources say Britain has kept an attack submarine in the Mediterranean for several months, allowing it to join any US-led missile barrage, just as it did with Libya. The French carrier Charles de Gaulle has just been declared operational after a refit. Currently in the Mediterranean port of Toulon, it could be off Syria within three days.

LEAST WORST OPTION Most officials who talked to Reuters said the possibility of allied and civilian casualties was a top consideration. “It’s about the least worst option,” said a European defense source on condition of anonymity. “No one wants the risk of pilots being captured or killed.” Manned

aircraft could still be ultimately used - Israeli jets have already raided Syrian targets on several occasions, proving it is possible. US F-16 jets have remained in Jordan after an exercise earlier this year. The US air force could also reinforce its Turkish airbase at Incirlik while B2 long-range bombers could fly from the continental United States, unseen by Syrian radar.

France retains Rafale and Mirage jets at a base in the United Arab Emirates. British, French and other aircraft could operate from bases in Cyprus, although the island’s foreign minister said yesterday he did not expect Britain’s Akrotiri base to play a major role in any strike. Gulf and other regional allies might provide useful intelligence, Western officials said, although their direct involvement in initial strikes was seen unlikely. The main focus would be protecting them from any retaliation by Damascus.

Syria’s conventional forces still pack considerable punch, experts say, including antiship missiles that could hit vessels nearby in the Mediterranean and conventional rockets that could hit neighboring countries including Israel. Last year, Assad promised not to use chemical weapons within Syria’s borders but explicitly threatened foreign countries if they attempted to impose outside “regime change”. Western officials believe Syria retains considerable stocks including VX gas, regarded as much more lethal than the sarin suspected to have been used in last week’s attack near Damascus. Such worries were a major factor in Turkey and Jordan requesting US and NATO Patriot missile batteries now based along the border to shoot down enemy missiles.— Reuters

Arkansas lawsuits test fracking wastewater link to quakes

By Mica Rosenberg ony Davis, a 54-year-old construction worker in central Arkansas, said he welcomed the boom in natural gas drilling that brought jobs and new businesses to his hometown starting about a decade ago. But that was before the earth shook. In 2010 and 2011, the quiet farming town of Greenbrier, Arkansas, was rattled by a swarm of more than 1,000 minor earthquakes.

The biggest, with a magnitude of 4.7, had its epicenter less than 1,500 feet from Davis’s front porch. “This should not be happening in Greenbrier,” Davis recalls thinking. He said the shaking damaged the support beams under an addition to his home.

Then came another surprise: University of Memphis and Arkansas Geological Survey scientists said the quakes were likely triggered by the disposal of wastewater from hydraulic fracturing - commonly known as fracking - into deep, underground wells.

That finding prompted regulators from the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission to order several wells in the area shut down, and the earthquakes soon subsided. It also prompted Davis and more than a dozen of his neighbors to file five lawsuits in federal court against Chesapeake Operating Inc, as the owner in 2010 of two injection wells near Davis’ home, and BHP Billiton , which purchased Chesapeake’s shale gas assets in 2011.

Another company, Clarita Operating LLC, owned a third well that was shut down, but the company went bankrupt and was dropped from the litigation in 2011. Chesapeake and BHP both declined to comment, citing policies not to discuss ongoing litigation. In court documents they denied they were responsible for the quakes and for any damage the quakes may have caused.

The litigation marks the first legal effort to link earthquakes to wastewater injection wells, according to a search of the Westlaw database and interviews with legal experts, and the first attempt to win compensation from drilling companies for quake damage.

If any of the earthquake cases make it to a jury and the plaintiffs prevail, the outcome could spark additional litigation, since wastewater injection wells are used not only in fracking, but in other kinds of oil and gas drilling and geothermal energy production. “The scientific community is really focusing on this issue so I imagine we will see more cases because of that,” said Barclay Nicholson, a Houston lawyer who represents major oil and gas companies and is not involved in the Arkansas cases. “That’s one of the new battlegrounds.”

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LITIGATION WAVE The first of the suits, filed in US District Court in Eastern Arkansas, is scheduled to go to trial before Judge J Leon Holmes next March, though the parties have been engaged in settlement talks, according to the court docket. The Arkansas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners, an oil and gas industry group, acknowledges that scientists found a possible connection between the disposal wells and the spate of minor quakes in and

around Greenbrier. But J. Kelly Robbins, the group’s executive vice president, said the companies had no way of knowing of any such link before wastewater injection began, and he said the operators shut the wells down when questions were raised. “The appropriate state agencies stepped up, collected data, did what they were supposed to do and made a decision,” Robbins said in an interview. “Industry abided by that and those wells were closed.” Robbins also said that while Arkansas is a traditional oil and gas producing state, fracking in the Fayetteville shale had brought billions of dollars of investment and boosted the state’s natural gas production ninefold in seven years.

The earthquake cases are part of a wave of litigation that has followed the rapid expansion in natural gas production across the United States using fracking, a drilling process that deploys a highly pressurized mix of water and chemicals to break apart shale rock to release oil and gas. Since 2009, some 40 civil suits related to fracking have been filed in eight states, claiming harm ranging from groundwater contamination to air pollution to excessive noise. So far none of the lawsuits has made it to trial and about half have been dismissed or settled, with company lawyers mainly arguing that a link between fracking and contaminated groundwater or other environmental problems has not been proven, according to a Reuters analysis of legal filings. The US Environmental Protection Agency is expected to issue a major report on fracking and drinking water next year that could have an impact on these cases, lawyers closely following the litigation say.

FINDING FAULT The Arkansas litigation does not target fracking itself, but rather the disposal of the leftover toxic, briny water known as “flowback.” Millions of gallons of wastewater are typically trucked from the fracking site to the well site, where they are injected thousands of feet underground into porous rock layers, often for weeks or months at a time. Seismologists say fracking can cause tiny “micro earthquakes” that are rarely felt on the surface. The process of disposing of the wastewater, though, can trigger slightly larger quakes when water is pumped near an already stressed fault, even one that hasn’t moved in millions of years, according to the US Geological Survey. Only a handful of the 30,000 injection wells across the country have been suspected of causing earthquakes, the US Geological Survey has said.

That rare event likely happened in central Arkansas, said Scott Ausbrooks, a geologist at the Arkansas Geological Survey in Little Rock who lives in Greenbrier and said he received calls from panicked neighbors when the quakes were rattling the town more than a dozen times a day. Ausbrooks said he became interested in studying wastewater injection in the area because it had previously experienced some earthquakes, including a notable swarm in the 1980s. He worked with Steve Horton from the University of Memphis Center for Earthquake Research and Information to set up seismic monitors around eight disposal wells. They found that

98 percent of the 2010-11 swarm of small quakes occurred within 3.7 miles of two of the wells. “Given the strong spatial and temporal correlation between the two wells and seismic activity on the fault,” Horton wrote in a study published in “Seismological Research Letters” in the March/April 2012 issue, “it would be an extraordinary coincidence if the recent earthquakes were not triggered by the fluid injection. For these reasons, I conclude that fluid injection triggered the recent seismicity.”

It was only after the wastewater injection wells went online that scientists discovered a previously unknown fault, now called the Guy-Greenbrier fault, Ausbrooks and Horton said. The Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission declared a permanent moratorium on new injection wells in almost 1,200 square miles around the newly discovered fault. The commission now requires new wells to be between 1 mile and 5 miles from known faults, and it more closely monitors the amount and pressure of injected wastewater. The EPA currently has no regulations relating to earthquakes and disposal wells - known as Class II wells - but the agency began working on a report addressing the issue in the wake of a spike in quakes in the central and eastern United States. In a November 2012 draft report, the EPA said it was studying “injection-induced seismicity” in central Arkansas; north Texas; Braxton County, West Virginia; and Youngstown, Ohio.

In Texas, operators in 2009 voluntarily plugged two disposal sites after regulators started investigating whether the wells touched off several quakes around the Dallas Forth-Fort Worth International Airport. Virginia’s Department of Environmental Protection in 2010 reduced the rate of wastewater injection allowed after a series of small tremors.

And in Ohio, officials shut down five injection wells in Youngstown following a 4.0 earthquake on New Year’s Eve 2011 in an area that had never experienced seismic activity before, the EPA report said. The EPA said the draft, obtained by the specialized news service EnergyWire through a Freedom of Information Act request, was a “technical report” as opposed to a policy blueprint and “is still under development.”

SEEKING PLAINTIFFS While the federal regulatory process plays out, the relationship between injection wells and earthquakes could first be thrashed out in court. Defense lawyers say proving negligence could be a difficult hurdle. “You have to prove that the conduct was unreasonable,” said Thomas Daily, an Arkansas lawyer who represents energy firms and is not involved in the earthquake cases. “You are not liable for a bolt out of the blue.”

The plaintiffs’ attorneys, from the Little Rock firm Emerson Poynter, claim the companies should have known the risks of drilling in a historically seismic area. “The scientific proof is absolutely there,” said plaintiffs’ lawyer Scott Poynter. Emerson Poynter lawyers said they currently represent 35 homeowners, about half of whom have yet to file lawsuits but plan to do so in state court. — Reuters

NEWS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

Deaths in custody revive Egypt rights fears Governments ‘seek’ Facebook users’ info Continued from Page 1 Although the full scope of the National Security Agency’s electronic data collection programs remains unclear, Facebook has vigorously contested claims that it allows the US government unfettered access to secretly gather information on a significant fraction of its users. Facebook General Counsel Colin Stretch said in the yesterday report that Facebook hoped to contribute to the “ongoing debate about the proper standards for government requests for user information in official investigations.”

“We fight many of these requests, pushing back when we find legal deficiencies and narrowing the scope of overly broad or vague requests,” Stretch said.

“When we are required to comply with a particular request, we frequently share only basic user information, such as name.” Facebook said it would begin to publish information on data requests on a regular basis.

Google and Twitter, among other companies, have periodically released similar information for several years.

Facebook’s report included secret information requests within the US authorized under the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act and the Patriot Act. US companies are ordinarily prohibited from acknowledging the existence of data requests made under those statutes. Facebook negotiated with the US government in June to begin publishing the total number of data requests it receives without specifying how many are related to law enforcement investigations as opposed to intelligence-gathering efforts. — Reuters

Al-Qaeda rebuffs US ‘propaganda’ Continued from Page 1 “We also affirm our concern... in preserving the blood of Muslims,” the statement added. A source close to Hadi quoted the Yemeni leader as saying Friday that in the alleged conversation between the Al-Qaeda leaders Wuhayshi told Zawahiri he would be hearing of something “that will change the course of history”. Hadi and US President Barack Obama had discussed the matter at the White House on August 1, according to the same source.

On August 4, the United States shut 19 of its consulates and embassies in the Arab and Muslim countries amid what American officials said was a threat of an imminent Al-Qaeda attack. The missions were later reopened. In the remarks delivered Friday to police officers, Hadi said a bid to attack an oil terminal in Yemen had been foiled after the phone conversation between Wuhayshi and Zawahiri was intercepted.

On August 7, Yemen said it had foiled an Al-Qaeda plot to storm the Canadian-run Mina Al-Dhaba oil terminal and seize the eastern Hadramawt provincial capital Al-Mukalla. Hadi said authorities were still searching for the second explosives-packed truck but had arrested members of a cell who had helped “facilitate the operation”. The president said a wave of drone attacks during the past two weeks on suspected Al-Qaeda targets in Yemen killed 40 militants, including some ringleaders in the Sanaa region. State news agency Saba on Friday quoted Hadi as saying he had asked Washington to provide Yemen with drones.

The Yemeni leader defended the use of drones by say-

ing they were more precise than other weapons. “The cooperation in the field of combating terrorism is not a secret,” Hadi said, referring to his country’s US-backed fight against Al-Qaeda. AQAP criticized his comments.

“Instead of showing repent and apologizing (over the US drone strikes), Abdrabuh praised these massacres without any shame,” it said, adding that he was “dragging the country towards a war with an unforeseen end.”

The network also spoke of failed efforts by clerics and tribal chiefs to broker a truce between it and the government. An official said in March that Hadi had rejected these efforts, insisting the militants must lay down their arms. AQAP said that “when details of the negotiations came out against the US will, they were met with rejection from Abdrabuh”.

Among their conditions was the formation of a committee of scholars that would oversee the implementation of Islamic sharia law in Yemen and bring an end to US drone attacks. The militants took advantage of a decline in central government control during a 2011 uprising that forced veteran president Ali Abdullah Saleh from power to seize large swathes of territory across the south, including most of Abyan province, which they controlled for a year.

They were driven out of these areas in June last year and have been increasingly weakened mainly due to US drone attacks. They still carry out hit-and-run attacks against security forces. Yemen is the ancestral home of Al-Qaeda founder Osama Bin Laden and the home base of the militant faction AQAP, the network’s deadliest franchise according to the United States. — AFP

‘Ready to hit’ Continued from Page 1 In France, which took a vocal lead in helping Libyan rebels topple Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Hollande was about to address ambassadors. A French diplomatic source said Paris had no doubt Assad’s forces carried out the gas attack and would “not shirk its responsibilities” in responding. In an indication of support from Arab states that may help Western powers argue the case for war against likely UN vetoes from Moscow and Beijing, the Arab League issued a statement holding Assad’s government responsible for the chemical attack.

In Saudi Arabia, the rebels’ leading regional sponsor, Foreign Minister Saud Al-Faisal called for “a decisive and serious stand by the international community to stop the humanitarian tragedy of the Syrian people.” Fears of international conflict hit some financial markets, notably in neighboring Turkey, as well as emerging economies that could be hit hard by a chill in world trade.

Asked if US forces were ready to strike Syria just “like that”, Hagel told the BBC: “We are ready to go, like that.”

“We have moved assets in place to be able to fulfill and comply with whatever option the president wishes to take,” he said. A senior US official said that Obama had yet to decide on military action. Top generals from the United States and European and Middle Eastern allies met in Jordan for what could be a council of war.

Hagel said the United States would have intelligence to present “very shortly” about last week’s mass poisoning. But he noted after calls with his British and French counterparts that there was little doubt among US allies that “the most base ... international humanitarian standard was violated”. Turkey, Syria’s neighbor and part of the US-led NATO military pact, called it a “crime against humanity” that demanded international reaction.

The Syrian government, which denies using gas or obstructing the UN inspectors, said it would press on with its offensive against rebels around the capital. Foreign Minister Walid Al-Moualem said US strikes would help AlQaeda allies and called Western leaders “delusional” if they hoped to help the rebels reach a balance of power in Syria. In Britain, whose forces have supported the US military in a succession of wars, Cameron called for an appropriate level of retribution for using chemical weapons.

“Our forces are making contingency plans,” a spokesman told reporters. London would make a “proportionate response”.

On Monday, US Secretary of State John Kerry said: “President Obama believes there must be accountability for those who would use the world’s most heinous weapons against the world’s most vulnerable people.

“The indiscriminate slaughter of civilians, the killing of

women and children and innocent bystanders by chemical weapons is a moral obscenity ... And despite the excuses and equivocations that some have manufactured, it is undeniable.”

How an intervention, likely to be limited to air strikes, would affect the course of Syria’s two and half year old civil war is far from clear. The conflict is largely at a stalemate.

Turmoil in Egypt, whose 2011 uprising inspired Syrians to rebel, has underlined the unpredictability of revolutions.

And the presence of Islamist militants, including allies of Al-Qaeda in the Syrian rebel ranks, has given Western leaders pause. They have held back so far from helping Assad’s opponents to victory.

Russia, a major arms supplier to Assad, has said rebels may have released the gas and warned against attacking Syria. Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov criticized Washington for cancelling bilateral talks on Syria that were set for today. The Syrian conflict has split the Middle East along sectarian lines. Shiite Muslim Iran has supported Assad and his Alawite minority against mainly Sunni rebels, some of them Islamists, who have backing from Gulf Arab states.

In Tehran, a foreign ministry spokesman said: “We want to strongly warn against any military attack in Syria. There will definitely be perilous consequences for the region.”

Syrian foreign minister Moualem, who insisted the government was trying to help the UN inspection team, told a news conference in Damascus that Syria would hit back if attacked. “We have means of defending ourselves, and we will surprise them with these if necessary,” he said. “We will defend ourselves. We will not hesitate to use any means available.”

Assad’s forces made little or no response to three attacks by Israeli aircraft earlier this year which Israeli officials said disrupted arms flowing from Iran to Lebanon’s Hezbollah. China, which has joined Moscow in vetoing measures against Assad in the UN Security Council, is also leary of Western use of force to interfere in other countries’ affairs. Beijing’s official news agency ran a commentary yesterday recalling that the United States invaded Iraq in 2003 on the grounds that it possessed banned weapons, which were never found.

The continued presence of United Nations experts in Damascus may be a factor holding back international military action. A UN statement said the investigators had put off a second visit to the affected areas until Wednesday to prepare better. Some residents of the capital are getting anxious. “I’ve always been a supporter of foreign intervention but now that it seems like a reality, I’ve been worrying that my family could be hurt or killed,” said one woman, Zaina, who opposes Assad. “I’m afraid of a military strike now.” — Reuters

SAO PAULO: Rescuers work amid the rubble of a building in construction that collapsed killing at least six people and injuring 22 in Sao Paulo, Brazil yesterday. According to Fire department sources, between eight and ten people would be still buried under the rubble. — AFP

CAIRO: Sherif Gamal Siyam spent his last minutes in an Egyptian police van, suffocating to death after tear gas was fired into the vehicle taking him to the Abu Zaabal jail. He had been arrested four days earlier, on August 14, when security forces began clearing a protest camp against the ouster of Egypt’s elected president Mohamed Morsi.

The Islamist president, a Muslim Brotherhood member, was deposed by the army on July 3 after massive protests against his rule. But Siyam’s friends and family insist he wasn’t camped at the protest-he had even joined rallies against the army and the Brotherhood, and considered a parliamentary run as an independent. They say he rushed to the camp site in the naive hope of convincing both sides to avoid violence.

However he found himself at the scene, what happened next is not in dispute: he was arrested, and became one of 37 prisoners who died in a van full of tear gas on August 18. Egypt’s government denies wrongdoing in the incident, and the interior ministr y has pledged a full investigation. But human rights activists and relatives of those killed accuse authorities of responsibility for the deaths.

The official story of how the prisoners died has evolved, with state news first saying gunmen had ambushed the prisoner convoy as it approached Abu Zaabal, north of Cairo. Later, state news agency MENA said the prisoners had taken a policeman hostage inside the van, prompting officers to fire tear gas into it. “Thirty-seven supporters of the deposed president suffocated to death inside the transport van,”

MENA said.

An interior ministry statement matched that account, adding that some of the prisoners had been trampled in the panic, and the police officer had escaped with injuries. Osama Al-Mahdy, a human rights lawyer, met Siyam years earlier, and stayed friends with the 29year-old communications engineer.

He had no idea his friend had been arrested until August 19, when he discovered Siyam’s family was among those waiting outside Cairo’s Zeinhom morgue for news of their loved ones.

Mahdy’s work means he is no stranger to death, but even he was shocked by the condition of Siyam’s body. “The bodies from the prison were very swollen, and the faces were very blue, almost black,” he said. Mahdy took pictures of the bodies and posted them on Twitter, in part to dispel theories that the prisoners had been shot. He examined the 20 bodies of prisoners he saw inside the morgue and found no signs of bullet wounds.

The blackness of the faces led some to speculate that the bodies were burned. But Human Rights Watch researcher Priyanka Motaparthy showed pictures of the bodies to a forensics expert who said that was more likely a result of decomposition. “He was very surprised at the state of decomposition of the bodies,” she said. But he told her it could be due to poor storage of the bodies, and that black areas could be the result of blood pooling. Mahdy at first questioned whether the prisoners had died earlier than repor ted. But Siyam’s family confirmed that their son had been alive on Saturday

afternoon, the day before his death.

After days without word of him, and a frantic search of Cairo’s police stations, they had finally found him on Friday. They saw him that day, and one final time on Saturday afternoon, his sister Lamia told AFP. Death from tear gas is relatively rare, according to experts. “There is a huge gap between when the gas... is effective and when it is deadly,” according to Sid Heal, a retired commander with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department and an expert on crowd control.

And the van would have had to be sealed, said Alistair Hay, a professor of environmental toxicology at Leeds University. “If the doors had been opened there would almost certainly have been no deaths, only people overcome by the effects of the tear gas,” he said. This is the idea that haunts Sherif ’s sister Lamia, “How could they lock people, human beings, inside a truck?” she said. “Are you trying to tell me you didn’t hear people screaming to death, screaming for fresh air? “This is not a mistake, this is a murder.”

Mahdy is equally forthright. “It’s a crime,” he says, “no matter how they died.” “The police and the government are responsible for these people, even if they are under arrest.” For him, the deaths are a sign that little has changed in Egypt, two years after the 2011 uprising, which included calls for human rights and justice. “After the revolution, I thought the human rights situation would change,” he said. “But the reality didn’t change, in fact it is getting worse, because now the government feels that whatever it does, no one will say anything.” — AFP

Boy’s eyes gouged out in gruesome attack Continued from Page 1 Internet users were outraged by the attack on the boy-who had a cleft palate-in Fenxi, in the northern province of Shanxi on Monday. “This is extraordinarily vicious,” said one Sina Weibo user. “How and why could someone be so cruel?” “A truly tragic boy,” said another poster.

About 300,000 patients in China need transplants

each year, but only about 10,000 people can get them due to a lack of donors, state media said. Seven people were jailed last year when a teenager sold a kidney for an illicit transplant operation and used the proceeds to buy an iPhone and iPad. Child organs are usually more expensive on the black market, an organ trafficker told Sina Internet news portal in 2010, as “most people think the younger the donor is, the better the quality of organs”.- — AFP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

S P ORTS

Honda rule out Stoner

Vikings’ Felton suspended

Woods pulls out of event

SYDNEY: Honda team boss Livio Suppo yesterday ruled out Casey Stoner making a wildcard appearance at his home Australian Grand Prix despite the former world Moto GP champion testing with the Japanese manufacturer. Stoner fuelled speculation of a return to the sport when he test-rode with his old team earlier this month and said it was “really good to get back on the bike after nine months”. But Suppo said the 27-year-old Australian, who shocked the sport last year when he retired at the peak of his career and switched to V8 Supercars, had no plans to compete again. “For every manufacturer, to have a fast test rider is something like a dream; it’s almost impossible to find a super-fast rider to do tests,” Suppo told the Australian Grand Prix podcast. “With Casey, it was a perfect situation. Since he retired, we spoke about his dream to still ride the bike sometimes. Everybody expects this means he will come back racing, but that’s not the case.” “We are more than happy to have such a strong and fast rider in testing available, (and) Casey is very good at understanding the bike and giving suggestions to the engineers,” added Suppo.— AFP

MINNEAPOLIS: Adrian Peterson’s lead blocker will be missing from the Minnesota Vikings for their first three regular season games. Pro Bowl fullback Jerome Felton has received a three-game suspension for violating the NFL’s policy on substance abuse, the league announced Monday. No details were disclosed, per the NFL’s confidentiality agreement with the players’ union. Felton was drafted by Detroit in the fifth round in 2008 out of Furman but bounced between three teams over his first four years in the league until his breakthrough last season with the Vikings, when Peterson rushed for 2,097 yards and won the Most Valuable Player award. Felton then signed a three-year contract with the club in March worth as much as $7.5 million, including $2 million guaranteed.

With an $850,000 base salary for 2013, Felton will lose $150,000 because of the ban. Felton had an emergency appendectomy two weeks ago and has been recovering since, so even though his suspension doesn’t take effect until Saturday, he’s not expected to play in the team’s final preseason game Thursday against Tennessee. He must miss the games at Detroit on Sept. 8, at Chicago on Sept. 15 and against Cleveland on Sept. 22, and he’ll be eligible to return to the active roster the day after that with his first allowable action on Sept. 29 against Pittsburgh in London. —AP

VERONA: Tiger Woods has pulled out of a charity golf event scheduled for today because of back pain which troubled him during the PGA Tour’s The Barclays event, organizers said Monday. “The important thing for Tiger is to make sure he is 100 percent healthy and not risk further injuring himself,” said tournament organizer Notah Begay.

Woods was set to play in the 18-hole exhibition, called the Notah Begay III Foundation Challenge in the state of New York, until back spasms bothered him during The Barclays. Despite the injury, he finished runner-up on Sunday, one shot behind Adam Scott.

It is not known if Woods will be able to participate in this weekend’s Deutsche Bank Championship in Boston. The tournament is the second of four FedEx Cup playoff events on the PGA Tour. The Deutsche Bank Championship begins on Friday.—AFP

Blue Jays snap 10-game losing streak

PHOENIX: Arizona Diamondbacks’ Adam Eaton (right) celebrates with teammate Didi Gregorius (1) after a baseball game against the San Diego Padres on Monday, Aug. 26, 2013 in Phoenix. The Diamondbacks defeated the Padres 6-1.— AP

Lee and Asche lift Phillies over Mets NEW YORK: Philadelphia’s Cliff Lee outpitched Zack Wheeler after the Mets learned All-Star starter Matt Harvey has a partially torn ligament in his right elbow, while Cody Asche had a two-run triple as the Phillies beat New York 2-1 Monday. Lee (11-3) gave a bullpen taxed by an 18-inning loss Saturday a much-needed rest. He allowed a run and five hits in eight innings to win for the first time in seven starts since July 5.

Asche hit his first major league triple - with two outs in the fourth - as the Phillies improved to 7-4 under new manager Ryne Sandberg and won for the second time in 15 road games. The Mets lost their fifth straight and dropped into fourth place in the NL East. Jonathan Papelbon was perfect in the ninth for his 22nd save in 28 opportunities. Wheeler (6-3) worked 6 2-3 impressive innings in his 13th big league start.

New York lost for just the second time in his last 10 outings. The rising star gave up two runs and five hits, and threw 105 pitches.

DODGERS 6, CUBS 2 Zack Greinke came within one strike of his fifth career shutout, and Hanley Ramirez and Yasiel Puig homered as the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Chicago Cubs, ending a two-game skid. The Cubs lost for the eighth straight time to the Dodgers, including a fourgame sweep at Wrigley Field earlier this month.

The Dodgers equaled their longest winning streak against the Cubs in franchise history, set from June 9, 1974-May 19, 1975. Greinke (13-3) tied his season high with nine strikeouts and he walked two while improving to 5-0 this month.

The right-hander has won 10 of 11 decisions since June 22. Greinke had a two-out hit in the fourth that scored the Dodgers’ first run. After giving up a single to Starlin Castro to open the game, Greinke retired the next 13 batters before Donnie Murphy singled in the fifth.

Greinke got the first two outs of the ninth before running into trouble.

Brian Bogusevic’s RBI double scored Chicago’s two runs. Brian Wilson came in to strike out Murphy for the final out. Jake Arrieta (1-1) gave up four runs and six hits in five-plus innings in his first road start for the Cubs.

CARDINALS 8, REDS 6 Allen Craig hit his first career grand slam with two outs in the seventh inning, helping St Louis rally to beat Cincinnati. Matt Holliday also had a long three-run homer as St. Louis moved into sole possession of first place in the NL Central for the first time since July 29.

The Cardinals lead idle Pittsburgh by a halfgame and Cincinnati by 31/2 games. Rookie

Carlos Martinez (1-1) pitched two innings for his first major league win, and Edward Mujica worked a perfect ninth for his 35th save.

Zack Cozart had two hits and three RBIs for the Reds, who dropped to 4-9 against St Louis this season. Jay Bruce hit his 25th homer in the eighth. Cozart and Todd Frazier both hit tworun triples off Tyler Lyons in the second, helping Cincinnati build a 4-0 lead. Holliday homered in the third. The Cardinals went ahead to stay in the seventh. Jon Jay drove in a run with a bases-loaded grounder off Manny Parra (1-3).

JJ Hoover then walked Holliday, and Craig drove the next pitch over the wall in right for his 13th homer.

ROCKIES 6, GIANTS 1 Todd Helton homered to move within three hits of 2,500 as Colorado beat San Francisco.

Juan Nicasio tossed six shutout innings and added an RBI single, and Charlie Blackmon also homered for the Rockies. Buster Posey singled and reached base for the 49th straight game against Colorado.

The Rockies began a nine-game, 10-day homestand with a strong performance against lefty Barry Zito (4-10), who has struggled away from home this season. Zito allowed five runs and nine hits and struck out one in four innings in his second start since being put back into the rotation.

He is 0-8 with a 9.61 ERA on the road this season. Nicasio (8-6) tied a season high with nine strikeouts and allowed four hits. He worked out of a bases-loaded jam in the first inning and pitched around two hit-batters before leaving after 95 pitches. The Giants spoiled the shutout attempt on Joaquin Arias’ two-out RBI double off Jeff Francis in the ninth.

DIAMONDBACKS 6, PADRES 1 Brandon McCarthy turned in seven strong innings, and Paul Goldschmidt drove in two runs to lead Arizona over San Diego. After a shaky first inning, the 6-foot-7 McCarthy (3-8) allowed only four runners over his final six innings. It was his first win since he beat San Diego on May 28. His other victory was a shutout at Miami on May 18.

Goldschmidt stretched his NL-leading RBI total to 103 with his first triple of the season and a ground out. He has the most RBIs for an Arizona hitter since Luis Gonzalez drove in 104 in 2003. Between the first inning and when he left the game, McCarthy allowed a one-out single in the third to Venable, a twoout single in the fourth to Chase Headley and a two-out single to opposing pitcher Tyson Ross (3-7) in the fifth.— AP

MLB results/standings Kansas City 11, Tampa Bay 1; St. Louis 8, Cincinnati 6; Toronto 5, NY Yankees 2; Oakland 8, Detroit 6; Philadelphia 2, NY Mets 1; Houston 10, Chicago White Sox 8; Colorado 6, San Francisco 1; Arizona 6, San Diego 1.

American League Eastern Division W L PCT Boston 77 55 .583 Tampa Bay 74 55 .574 Baltimore 70 59 .543 NY Yankees 69 62 .527 Toronto 59 73 .447 Central Division Detroit 77 54 .588 Cleveland 71 59 .546 Kansas City 66 64 .508 Minnesota 57 72 .442 Chicago W Sox 54 76 .415 Western Division Texas 76 55 .580 Oakland 73 57 .562 Seattle 59 71 .454 LA Angels 58 71 .450 Houston 44 86 .338

GB 1.5 5.5 7.5 18

Atlanta Washington Philadelphia NY Mets Miami

5.5 10.5 19 22.5

St. Louis Pittsburgh Cincinnati Milwaukee Chicago Cubs

2.5 16.5 17 31.5

LA Dodgers Arizona Colorado San Diego San Francisco

National League Eastern Division 78 52 .600 65 65 .500 60 71 .458 58 71 .450 49 80 .380 Central Division 77 54 .588 76 54 .585 74 58 .561 57 73 .438 55 76 .420 Western Division 77 54 .588 67 63 .515 62 71 .466 59 72 .450 58 73 .443

13 18.5 19.5 28.5 0.5 3.5 19.5 22 9.5 16 18 19

TORONTO: RA Dickey pitched into the seventh inning and Jose Reyes sparked Toronto’s offense as the Blue Jays snapped a 10-game losing streak against the New York Yankees with a 5-2 victory on Monday. Alex Rodriguez hit his 650th home run, a leadoff drive in the fifth, but the Yankees lost for the ninth time in 13 road games this month. Rodriguez is 10 homers away from tying Willie Mays for fourth on the career list, which would secure a $6 million bonus for the third baseman. Derek Jeter went hitless in his return to New York’s lineup. Jeter, who had been out with a calf injury, finished 0 for 3 with a walk.

Reyes walked and scored in the third, and doubled and scored in Toronto’s three-run fifth as the Blue Jays beat the Yankees for just the second time in 14 meetings this season.

Dickey (10-12) allowed two runs, one earned, and six hits in 6 1-3 innings.

Casey Janssen got three outs for his 24th save in 26 chances. New York right-hander Phil Hughes (4-13) allowed five runs, four earned, and seven hits in 4 2-3 innings. He is 0-6 with a 5.84 ERA in his last nine starts.

ATHLETICS 8, TIGERS 6 Coco Crisp and Daric Barton each drove in two runs, leading Oakland past Miguel Cabrera and Detroit.

Cabrera hit his 43rd homer, bolstering his pursuit of another Triple Crown, but Barton had a tiebreaking RBI single in Oakland’s two-run sixth inning. Crisp also had a solo homer during his three-hit performance. AJ Griffin (11-9) earned his first win since July 29 despite allowing four runs and seven hits in five -plus innings. The right-hander was 0-2 with a 3.47 ERA in his previous four star ts. Omar Infante and Victor Martinez also homered for the AL Central-leading Tigers, who had won

RANGERS 8, MARINERS 3 AJ Pierzynski hit a three-run homer for Texas, and Mitch Moreland had a solo shot in a win over Seattle.

Alex Rios had two hits and two RBIs as the Rangers picked up their fifth win in seven games. Elvis Andrus celebrated his 25th birthday with three hits and an RBI. Kyle Seager hit his 20th home run of the season for the Mariners, who have lost four in a row.

Travis Blackley (2-1) earned his first win since being acquired in a trade with Houston on Aug 14. Blackley, making his second start of the season, allowed three runs and five hits over six innings in his longest outing since Oct 2, 2012. It was a much different night for Seattle starter Joe Saunders (10-13), who turned in another sluggish outing. The lefthander allowed seven runs and nine hits in seven inning to fall to 1-5 with a 7.71 ERA in his last seven starts.

TORONTO: Toronto Blue Jays second baseman Ryan Goins forces out New York Yankees’ Austin Romine at second base as he turns a double play during the third inning of a baseball game in Toronto. — AP three in a row. Martinez went 4 for 5 and Torii Hunter had two hits.

Barton’s tiebreaking single in the sixth came against Jose Alvarez (14). Grant Balfour allowed an unearned run in the ninth on Matt Tuiasosopo’s grounder before finishing for his 33rd save.

ROYALS 11, RAYS 1 Jeremy Guthrie tossed five effective innings, helping Kansas City roll to the victory in the makeup of a snowed-out game from early May. Guthrie (13-10) allowed one run and six hits, struck out five and walked

three. He fanned Kelly Johnson with two aboard to end the third inning, and then struck out David DeJesus on a called third strike to leave the bases loaded in the fourth. Jeremy Hellickson (10-8) allowed five runs in just 2 2-3 innings for Tampa Bay. It was the right hander’s shortest start since June 30, 2012, when he went the same distance in a game against Detroit before getting pelted in the leg by a line drive.

Salvador Perez hit a three -run homer and finished with four RBIs as the Royals won their second straight following a seven-game slide.

ASTROS 10, WHITE SOX 8 Matt Dominguez hit a tiebreaking homer with two outs in the ninth inning and Chris Carter followed with his second homer of the game, powering Houston to the win. The Astros squandered a five-run lead and trailed 8-7 before Carter hit a tying RBI single in the seventh. White Sox reliever Addison Reed (5-2) struck out Jose Altuve and Jason Castro to open the ninth before Dominguez belted a drive to left for his 19th homer. Carter then added his 25th of the year. David Martinez (1-0) pitched 2 2-3 innings to get his first major league win, and Jordan Lyles - Houston’s third pitcher of the ninth inning - struck out Avisail Garcia looking on a full count with the bases loaded to get his first save in his first chance this season. Carter finished 3 for 4 with the two homers and four RBIs in his third career multihomer game.—AP

NFL to study hits to knees NEW YORK: The NFL will keep a close eye on hits to the knees of defenseless players this season, with the possibility of extending the rules protecting such players. If the league’s competition committee finds enough evidence this season that hits to the knees are “becoming a problem,” it could take action, chief of football operations Ray Anderson said yesterday. The committee could make a recommendation to the owners next March to prohibit direct hits to the knees of defenseless players. The owners would then vote on such a change.

“We are always looking at plays that may elevate themselves and we do include in that category hits on defenseless players,” Anderson said.

“And certainly the hits to knees to players who have not had the opportunity to protect themselves or are not looking in the direction of where the hit comes from - we have had a couple hits whereby a player was hit below (or at) the knees.”

Currently, hits to the head and neck of defenseless players are outlawed. But two direct hits to the knee in preseason games that injured Miami tight end Dustin Keller and Minnesota defensive tackle Kevin Williams have drawn complaints from some players. Keller is out for the season with several torn knee ligaments. Williams has a hyperextended knee. Anderson said the league will monitor plays during the year, study the data when the competition committee begins meeting after the season and see whether such hits to the knees are an “aberration or becoming a problem.” —AP

SAN FRANCISCO: Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Joe Webb (14) catches a threeyard touchdown in front of San Francisco 49ers defensive back Perrish Cox (20) during the third quarter of an NFL preseason football game in San Francisco, Sunday, Aug 25, 2013.— AP

Sheep sacrifices lift Kazakh Shakhter to Euro big time ALMATY: Located well beyond most people’s idea of the frontiers of Europe, far-flung Kazakhstan side Shakhter Karagandy are a match away from reaching the group stages of the Champions League with a little help from ritual sheep sacrifices and a chain-smoking manager. Kazakhstan’s reigning champions Shakhter, who hail from the country’s industrial centre Karagandy, produced a sensation in the first leg of the Champions League play-offs by beating 2-0 Scottish giants Celtic.

They head to Glasgow for the second leg with every chance of making it to the group stage of Europe’s most lucrative club competition and forcing top sides to make the long and arduous journey out to the heart of Central Asia for away games. “Nothing is decided yet in the clash with Celtic, even though we won the first leg match,”

Shakhter manager Viktor Kumykov told reporters in Kazakhstan. “The club from Glasgow are experienced European Cup fighters as they are without doubt a classy outfit.

“I think they’re still the favorites. We all are preparing for a very tough match at Celtic Park on Wednesday,” he said. The coach-famed for being a heavy smoker for almost 35 years-added that he was ready to quit smoking if his side makes it to the Champions’ League group stage. Kairat Almaty midfielder Stuart Duff, the only Scottish footballer in the Kazakhstan league, told AFP he was not surprised with Shakhter’s win over his compatriots.

“Shakhter looked the better side at Astana and won deservedly. Now they have a fair chance of going through,” Duff said.

“They chose the right tactics for the match. They

played stoutly in defense and managed to convert their chances into goals. “But in the return leg Celtic will enjoy the support of their fans, who are famous for getting behind their team. I think nothing is decided yet and I expect a very interesting clash today.” Meanwhile, Shakhter’s players are hoping that higher forces will also lend a hand, with last week’s victory over Celtic coming after the team sacrificed a sheep on the pitch for good fortune. “We have a tradition of sacrificing a sheep on the threshold of various important tournaments,” explained the club’s goalkeeper Alexander Mokin.

“We did it before the national championship’s start and ahead of the Champions League qualifying round as well. It’s a tradition that has brought us luck in the past and we believe it will also help us this time.” —AFP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

S P ORTS

Washington to bid for 2024 Olympics WASHINGTON: Washington is making a push to host the 2024 Olympics. DC 2024 president Bob Sweeney announced yesterday the formation of a nonprofit group aimed at making Washington the first American city to host the Summer Games since Atlanta in 1996, and the first to host an Olympics since the Winter Games were held in Salt Lake City in 2002. “We are the safest and most secure city in the world,” Sweeney said. “The largest expense of any Olympic Games is security, and the fact that we’ve got it pretty built in to our everyday life here in Washington, we would leverage that asset tremendously to put on this high-profile event.” The bid has a long way to go.

Washington was one of 35 U.S. cities to receive a letter from the US Olympic Committee to gauge interest, and Sweeney expects about 10 to step forward as serious candidates.

The USOC hasn’t even decided for certain that it wants to bid for the 2024 Games, which will be awarded by the International Olympic Committee in 2017. “They need to make sure there is a strong horse to ride,” Sweeney said. “And we certainly intend to be that.” Los Angeles, which hosted the 1932 and 1984 Olympics, Philadelphia and Tulsa, Oklahoma, have announced their interest.

San Diego wants to host a cross-border Olympics with Mexican neighbor Tijuana.

Other potential 2024 contenders from around the world include Paris; Rome; Doha, Qatar; and a city in South Africa.

Washington made a push for the 2012 Games a decade ago and was thought to be the favorite to be the US representative, but the USOC chose New York instead. There was concern at the time that the Washington bid was tainted by hearings held by Congress in connection with the Salt Lake City bribery scandal, the thought being that the IOC would not want to put the Olympics in the city where its then-presi-

dent, Juan Antonio Samaranch, was grilled by lawmakers under oath.

New York went on to finish fourth in the international bidding, losing out to eventual winner London. Chicago made a bid for 2016 and suffered a stinging first-round exit, with Rio de Janeiro winning the games.

Chicago’s defeat was blamed partly on a revenue-sharing feud between the USOC and IOC. The two sides have since resolved the dispute, and USOC leaders have worked hard to improve their standing in the international Olympic community. “It’s a different USOC than it was, certainly, for Chicago,” Sweeney said. Sweeney, a former president of the Greater Washington Sports Alliance, helped out with the city’s 2012 bid and said he has no concerns about the political problems that hurt that effort. He pointed out that Washington was recently chosen to host a major Olympic meeting - the general assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees - in 2015.

Washington is also making a push to host the 2017 fencing world championships, which would be timely if Thomas Bach, a former German fencer, is chosen as the next IOC president in an election next month. Sweeney said he hopes to raise $3 million to $5 million to support the bid by the end of 2014. He estimates the cost of hosting the Olympics would range from $3.5 billion to $6 billion, although he expected it would be toward the lower end because a good deal of the infrastructure is already in place. There will be the need, however, for a new stadium to host the opening ceremony and track and field. Sweeney said he has met with the Washington Redskins, whose lease at their current stadium in Maryland expires in 2026. Local leaders will be pushing hard for the team to come back to the city at that time, so a stadium built for the Olympics could become an NFL stadium shortly afterward. —AP

All Blacks ‘machine’ shifted up a gear MELBOURNE: A pair of humbling losses to the All Blacks marked a tough initiation for new Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie, but that was to be expected against a world champion team showing no sign of stopping, former Australia captain Stirling Mortlock has said. Mortlock, who battled a succession of top-ranked New Zealand teams in an 80-cap career from 2000-09, said Steve Hansen’s side had defied belief by raising their game to another level since winning the 2011 World Cup under former coach Graham Henry. “The reality is the New Zealand team right now are essentially a machine,” Mortlock told Reuters on Tuesday.

“They’re full of confidence, they know exactly what they’re doing both on an individual and collective level and they’re accuracy and execution when opportunities arise is fantastic. “It seems as though, since winning the World Cup in 2011, this All Blacks outfit has just gone up another gear, which you’d almost argue you didn’t think that they were capable of doing.

But that seems to be the case.” The appointment of McKenzie, who replaced Robbie Deans after the New Zealander led Australia to a morale-sapping series loss against the British and Irish Lions, raised hopes Down

Under of an end to the All Blacks’ dominance.

TOUGH YARDSTICK But the former test prop’s honeymoon ended with a 47-29 shellacking in Sydney, backed up by another emphatic 27-16 loss in Wellington at the weekend which kept the Bledisloe Cup, the annual trophy contested between the transTasman rivals, in New Zealand’s possession for an 11th straight year. McKenzie will mull changes for the Wallabies’ third match of the southern hemisphere’s Rugby Championship against 2007 world champions South Africa in Brisbane, and singled out his reserves for failing to make an impact off the bench in Wellington.

But Mortlock believes the former World Cupwinning forward should not lose faith in his current squad ahead of the Lang Park clash on Sept 7. “I guess (the All Blacks) are a fairly tough yardstick to measure the Wallabies against,” said the 36-year-old, a bustling inside centre during his Wallabies career. “There’s a lot of positive things the Wallabies have been doing over the last two test matches but to do that consistently and to be able to finish your opportunities off when you have a sniff, that takes a bit of time to get that right.—Reuters

Photo of the day

A competitor performs at the Red Bull Olabillop in Bergen, Norway. —www.redbull.com

McLaren say no talks with Raikkonen...yet LONDON: McLaren considered signing Kimi Raikkonen last year but there have been no talks - so far - with their former driver since last season, team principal Martin Whitmarsh said yesterday.

Raikkonen, the 2007 Formula One champion with Ferrari who is now with Lotus, is at the heart of paddock gossip with the driver market thrown into ferment by Australian Mark Webber’s decision to leave champions Red Bull for sportscar racing.

Lotus say they are confident they can persuade him to stay once they have secured a new investment deal but the Finn has been linked to Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren in media speculation.

Asked in an interview with the official formula1.com website whether McLaren had ever considered getting Raik konen back, Whitmarsh replied: “Yes, we have.

Kimi has always been great and I am a big fan of him. There is a lot of speculation out there at the moment so let’s see what happens.

“Last year we had talks with him, but for various reasons it didn’t happen,” added the team boss.

“This year we’ve had no talks - yet.”

McLaren signed young Mexican Sergio Perez from Sauber last year as a replacement for 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton once the Briton had decided to move to Mercedes. Britain’s Jenson Button, the 2009 world champion for Brawn GP, is their other driver and has been with the Woking team since 2010. Raikkonen drove for McLaren from 2002 to 2006, when Ron Dennis was team principal, and won nine races with them as

well as finishing overall runner-up in 2003 and 2005.

Button and Perez are expected to stay at McLaren next year, despite a miserable season for the former champions who have yet to finish higher than fifth, although Button told reporters at last weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix that he did not yet have a signed deal.

Asked whether having two world champions on board, as McLaren

did last year with Hamilton and Button, might get more “positive media mileage”, Whitmarsh agreed that might be the case.

“Yes, it might do,” he replied.

“We’ll see. We are not talking to Kimi at the moment so let’s see what happens in the driver market. “I think one thing I have to say is that we haven’t given our drivers the car we should have done this year. But they’ve been fantastic

ambassadors and I think they deserve another go with us next year.” Button told reporters before Sunday’s race at Spa that he was happy at McLaren and expected to see out his Formula One future with the team.

McLaren celebrate 50 years in Formula One at Monza next week and a contract renewal could come at the same time for the Englishman.— Reuters

SPA, LIEGE: Lotus F1 Team’s Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen (center) drives ahead of Lotus F1 Team’s French driver Romain Grosjean, Caterham F1 Team’s French driver Charles Pic and Ferrari’s Brazilian driver Felipe Massa after the start of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Spa during the Belgium Formula One Grand Prix.— AFP

It’s Asia’s turn at IOC: Singapore’s Ng

France’s lock Lionel Nallet

RugbyU: France’s Nallet to leave with no regrets PARIS: Former France rugby union captain Lionel Nallet said on Monday he will retire without any regrets at the end of the season which will bring to an end a highly successful 15 year career. The former Castres, Bourgoin and Racing-Metro lock - capped 74 times and scorer of nine tries from 2000-12 - will he hopes captain Lyon back to the Top 14 after they failed to regain their place at the first try last season.

Whilst he says that were they to return to the Top 14 he might reconsider his retirement plans he added with his contract at an end at the climax of this season it was unlikely he would be given that option and he would be almost 38 by the time the next campaign begins.

“I won’t regret retiring at the end of the season for several reasons,” said Nallet, who appeared in two World Cups’ including the 2011 final where they lost narrowly to the All Blacks. “First of all my age and all those mornings when I have to get up. “Also my other interests outside of rugby have become increasingly difficult to manage at the same time as carrying on playing. I cannot be everywhere 100% of the time.

“My future does not lie in rugby: I have a precisions tool business which is developing well in Bourg-en-Bresse (his birthplace).” Nallet, who captained France 16 times in 2008 and

2009 before losing it to Thierry Dusautoir, said that regardless of it being his last season nothing much had changed in terms of preparing for it. “The only thing different I guess was that I have endured my final preparation for a campaign, which is no bad thing and I will not miss that too much,” he said laughing.

“Nevertheless I still take pleasure out of playing. Sometimes it is true the daily training routines are a little tough,” added Nallet, who was part of three Six Nations winning sides, including the 2010 Grand Slam winners. Nallet, who gained even more respect for alone among the French players coming before the media and apologizing for their humiliating pool stage loss to Tonga at the 2011 World Cup, said that he had done all he needed to in rugby to leave a happy man.

“I think that I’ve done what I needed to do in rugby,” he said. “I have all the same experienced some extraordinary moments and I have had a privileged life in some respects.

“We have a pretty good life in comparison to others, we don’t work 10 hour days. “Alright I don’t have any weekends off, but you can take that any way you like it, because we have a lovely life in general. “This part of my life is going to come to an end but I have other really interesting things on the side which sees me leave without any regrets. “I have done my time.”—AFP

SINGAPORE: Would-be IOC boss Ng Ser Miang said the Olympic body would benefit from having an Asian leader and pledged a new era for the organization as the race for the presidency enters the home straight. The Singaporean supermarket chief and diplomat said that the 119-year-old International Olympic Committee (IOC) needs a “different perspective” as it heads into an age where the world’s most populous region will play a far greater role.

The 64-year-old Ng is considered a strong contender among the six candidates vying to replace Belgium’s Jacques Rogge as IOC president in a vote in Buenos Aires on September 10. The IOC, founded in 1894 by Baron Pierre de Coubertin, has had seven European presidents and one American, with Rogge in charge since 2001. “The IOC has become very global and I think for the IOC it’s also important to have a different perspective, in this case coming from a very important part of the world,” the Chinese-born

Ng said in an interview. He added: “I hope so!” when asked if it was time the IOC had an Asian leader. “But I think it’s important not just symbolically but for the values they can bring to the table as well, when we talk about universality, different value systems, different cultures, different ways of looking at issues and challenges,” said Ng. “Which also means that you have different solutions, coming from different angles and different perspectives. I believe that’s going to be very, very useful to the movement and very important to the movement in future.”

Ng is one of two candidates from Asia, along with Taiwan’s CK Wu, head of the International Boxing Federation. But he played down fears that the two were harming each other’s chances by competing for regional votes. “I’m happy that we have very strong candidates,” said Ng, Singapore’s non-resident ambassador to Norway. Germany’s Thomas Bach is touted as the front-runner, followed by Ng and

SINGAPORE: Would-be IOC boss Ng Ser Miang pictured during an interview in his office in Singapore. — AFP

Puerto Rican banker Richard Carrion. Ukrainian polevault great Sergey Bubka and Denis Oswald of Switzerland are the other hopefuls.

Ng has strong credentials as an existing IOC vicepresident with a successful business career, after starting out as a bus entrepreneur and now heading Singapore’s biggest supermarket chain. He also chaired the inaugural Youth Olympic Games, in Singapore in 2010, and was a driving force behind the city-state’s rise from sporting backwater to regional centre with Formula One in its portfolio of events. Wearing an electric blue tie and a humble manner, and sitting in his office near Singapore’s new Sports Hub, an under-construction complex including a 55,000-seat national stadium, Ng said he could bring similar acumen to bear on the IOC. He proposed containing the huge costs of putting on Summer and Winter Olympics, which currently rule out many cities, and better risk assessment to protect hosts from financial difficulties.

Russia’s Sochi is estimated to be spending $50 billion on next year’s Winter Olympics, while Rio de Janeiro is already under pressure over its hosting of the 2016 Summer Games. “We have to review the Games bids process, despite scales and complexities of the Games. At the same time reviewing sports programs as well. We have to make sure they continue to be exciting, to be relevant,” said Ng. He added: “Organizing the Games is very complex, it’s huge... but definitely it’s time that we have a major review of this and see how we can move forward.” Ng also pledged to work more closely with sports federations, national Olympic bodies and sponsors to try to tap their “huge resources” and raise partnerships to a more “strategic level”. He said he would hold half-day meetings with each of the 115 IOC members and then a group retreat to chart the way forward on “hot-button issues” such as the Games’ size and scale, which sports are contested, doping and illegal betting.

And to raise efficiency he plans to delegate projects to IOC vice-presidents and members, and review the body’s staff and internal operations. —AFP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

S P ORTS

Don’t pity me says cancer-survivor Kleybanova NEW YORK: Cancer survivor Alisa Kleybanova enjoyed a winning return to Grand Slam tennis on Monday at the US Open, but pleaded with fans not to pity her after her courageous battle for survival.

The 24-year-old Russian was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphona in 2011, an illness which forced her off tour until May this year. Kleybanova, who once reached 20 in the world but now stands at 363 in the rankings, marked her first major appearance in over two years with a 6-4, 3-6, 7-5 win over number 44 Monica Puig of Puerto Rico.

“I’m happy that all those things are over for me now. I went through them. I came as a winner in that battle,” said Kleybanova. “I hear a lot from people that I’m a big inspiration for them. A lot of people now look up to me. I mean, I think it’s great. But I don’t want to be an example. “I’m not trying to show anything or whatever. I do it for myself. I want to play tennis. I’m not trying to pretend anything.

But if my story inspires people and gives them more belief, makes them feel stronger at some point, that’s great.”

Kleybanova came off the tour in the middle of

2011 and played just one tournament in Miami in 2012 before launching her comeback on a full-time basis in May this year. It began with baby steps at second-tier tournaments before Kleybanova returned to the big time in Toronto, where she lost first round, and then at Cincinnati, where she won one match before heading for New York. It was a comeback she was already dreaming of when she was first diagnosed. Back then she announced the bombshell news on her website under the headline: “Alisa Kleybanova defeats Hodgkin’s Lymphoma 6 Love, 6 Love.”

“I just wanted to come back on the court so much. I wanted to play tennis again so much that it wasn’t a question for me,” said the Russian. “I wanted to be back healthy and play again. I was very patient. I wasn’t so stressed about those things.

Just took it as part of like when you do very tough training, you know it’s going to be tough. “You have to go through this, because after you’ll get better and things will get better.” Kleybanova next faces Serb ninth seed Jelena Jankovic for a place in the last 32. — AFP

NEW YORK: Alisa Kleybanova, of Russia, returns against Monica Puig, of Puerto Rico, during the first round of the 2013 US Open tennis tournament on Monday, Aug 26, 2013, in New York. Kleybanova, a former top-20 player, is recovering from cancer. — AP

Zimbabwe end winless streak, thump Pakistan

NEW YORK: Bernard Tomic of Australia serves to Albert Ramos of Spain during their men’s singles first round match on Day One of the 2013 US Open. — AFP

Tomic fights without dad NEW YORK: With his father banned from the US Open and memories burning of an early surrender in a second-round exit last year, Australia’s Bernard Tomic ground out a five-set victory Monday. Tomic, the Aussie number one at 52nd in the world, rallied to outlast Spain’s 75th-ranked Albert Ramos 6-3, 3-6, 4-6, 7-6 (7/1), 6-3 and said he felt he had proven a point with a courageous fightback.

One year after headlines dubbed him “Tomic the Tank Engine” after he lamely withered through the final games of a second-round loss to Andy Roddick, the German-born 20-year-old was on his game, not going home. “To turn any match around like this where I think I was probably one or two points away from being out of the tournament, being able to turn that around and find something inside to win this match, was very good for me, and I take that as confidence into my next round,” Tomic said.

Tomic will next face 179th-ranked British qualifier Daniel Evans, who upset Japanese 11th seed Kei Nishikori in the first day of play on the Flushing Meadows hardcourts.

Tomic’s father and coach, John Tomic, has been banned from ATP and Grand Slam events after being accused of assaulting Thomas Drouet, who had been his son’s hit-

ting partner, in Madrid on May 4. It’s a charge the elder Tomic has denied and the matter remains before a Spanish court, although Tomic ripped the ATP for rushing to judgment in the case after winning his first match at Wimbledon.

“I’m managing now,” Tomic said. “It’s still difficult, but what can I do? I’m trying to play as best as I can. The main thing now for me is just to keep improving. Every day I want to improve. I want to get better. That’s where my mindset is at.” That, Tomic says, means becoming more independent of his father. “I’m not looking where my dad is,” Tomic said. “Of course my dad is still on my side with me and that’s an important thing, but I’m trying to find myself deep down inside and become the best player I can be.

“Each day is a new stepping-stone for later in my career. I approach days differently now, so it’s good.” With fitness coach Ivan Dimitrijevic in the player’s box, Tomic has somewhere to turn when times get tough as they did against Ramos.”Felt very good to come back from that match,” Tomic said. “He should have got the better of me, but I found something in the end to turn it around. “Sometimes you don’t need to play really well to win. You just need to do the right thing.”— AFP

49ers trade linebacker Haralson to the Saints SANTA CLARA: The San Francisco 49ers traded linebacker Parys Haralson to the Saints on Monday to fill a big need for New Orleans, a person with knowledge of the deal said. The person spoke on condition of anonymity Monday night because neither team had announced the trade. It wasn’t clear what compensation the 49ers would receive in return.

New Orleans is in desperate need at the linebacker position as a pair of would-be starters are dealing with serious knee injuries - Will Smith and Victor Butler.

Haralson departed San Francisco team headquarters Monday night after saying his goodbyes before the team began a late practice, acknowledging that he had been traded while providing no further details other than, “I’m outta here.” Saints outside linebacker Smith will be sidelined for the season with a knee injury, a person familiar with the situation said.

Butler is recovering from knee surgery that will sideline him most or all of the season.

Haralson said while walking to the parking lot, “I want to let them announce it,” pointing upstairs to the team’s front office. He offered handshakes and hugs throughout the locker room, changed out of 49ers gear and into shorts and a Tshirt, then left the facility. He told teammates he would fly out first thing in the morning to join his new team - headed back to the Big Easy, where San Francisco lost the Super Bowl 34-31 to the Baltimore Ravens in February.

The NFC champion Niners have depth at linebacker and Haralson was in a reserve role while beginning a comeback season after missing all of last year’s postseason run with a torn left triceps. In June, 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledged he wished he had used the return exemption in Haralson’s situation that would have allowed him to be activated and play again once healthy

and not have to stay on season-ending injured reserve.

“It was really hard,” Haralson said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. “I think that’s hard for anybody, especially being in this business that we’re in. That’s what you get paid for, you get paid to come out and play football not sit back and rehab. “It was hard on me, but it’s one of those things you can’t do anything about it. You take the bad and turn it into good and do as much as you can to stay around it and stay in it.”

New Orleans’ injured defense will certainly get Haralson up to speed in a hurry to play in Rob Ryan’s new 3-4 scheme.

San Francisco faces New Orleans in Week 11 on Nov 17 at the Superdome, and 49ers running back Frank Gore told Haralson, “When we play y’all, be easy on me.” The 29-year-old Haralson was a 16-game starter on the 2011 defense that ranked No. 1 stopping the run. A seven-year veteran, Haralson has 145 career tackles and 211/2 sacks in 86 games. He had been set to be the primary backup last season behind Ahmad Brooks and Aldon Smith before he was injured in the third preseason game.

Haralson said he gained valuable expertise during his season on the sideline and helping his teammates in meetings, practice and on game day.

“I never felt like I stepped away from football because I was still here throughout the whole injury and IR process,” Haralson said. “It’s one of the things getting back used to the football movements. As far as the mental part of it, I’ll never forget that.” During the offseason, Haralson restructured his contract in a move to save the team salary cap space.

A talented run defender, Haralson enters his contract season with the chance to get more exposure as a starter for the Saints. The Mercury News first reported the trade was with New Orleans. — AP

HARARE: A sturdy 85 from Hamilton Masakadza and a crucial late cameo from Sean Williams saw Zimbabwe record their first oneday win over Pakistan since 1998. Chasing 245 in the first one-day international of a threematch series yesterday, Masakadza laid the platform before Williams finished the job with an unbeaten 39 from 23 deliveries as Zimbabwe won by seven wickets with 10 balls to spare.

Although Misbah-ul-Haq held the Pakistan innings together in his 50th consecutive ODI as Pakistan captain, he was left to lament his decision to bat first at a venue where the pitch generally improves as the day goes on. “We misread the pitch - it was looking like it was going to be slow in the second innings, but I think it was slow in the first innings and played better in the second,” said Misbah.

“Still I think Zimbabwe really deserved it they played really well and played better than us. There was no panic in their batting line-up and they did it comfortably.” Misbah finished unbeaten on 83 and shared in a 99-run stand for the third wicket with Mohammad Hafeez, who made 70, but with Pakistan’s middle and lower order failing to fire they could only manage 244 for seven.

It could have been far worse for the tourists had Zimbabwe held their catches - both Nasir Jamshed and Ahmed Shehzad were put down during an opening partnership of 56, while Hafeez was let off on 10 and 55. Misbah required no such luck in a well-paced knock that saw him go to fifty in 62 balls before opening up towards the end, and his two sixes off Tinashe Panyangara in the final over of the innings ensured that Pakistan at least had something to bowl at.

However Masakadza, who was restored to the top of the Zimbabwean innings for Pakistan’s tour, put on a confident stand of 107 with his opening partner Vusi Sibanda as Pakistan’s bowlers found little assistance in the pitch. Sibanda was eventually trapped lbw for 54 by Saeed Ajmal, but Brendan Taylor maintained stability with a calm 43 not out as he and Masakadza took Zimbabwe to 176 for one in the 38th over. Masakadza missed out on a potential century when he slapped an Ajmal delivery straight to short extra cover, and the pressure was back on when Timycen Maruma put in another nervous showing with the bat.

Zimbabwe needed a nerveless innings to put them back on track, and Williams provided it as he struck four fours before finishing the

HARARE: Zimbabwe players celebrate a wicket during the first game of the three match ODI cricket series between Pakistan and hosts Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club yesterday. — AFP

game in emphatic fashion when he hit Mohammad Irfan for six over wide longon.”We were badly beaten by India a couple of weeks back, so to come out with that sort of performance shows a lot of character,” said

Taylor. “To beat the quality team that they’ve got shows we’re doing the right things, and it just shows that if our top-order batters come off it lays that foundation.” The two sides meet again at the same venue tomorrow. — AFP

SCOREBOARD HARARE, Zimbabwe: Scoreboard Tuesday after Pakistan’s innings in the first one-day international against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club: Pakistan Nasir Jamshed c Taylor b Chatara 27 Ahmed Shehzad st Taylor b Utseya 24 Mohammad Hafeez c Maruma b Chatara 70 Misbah-ul-Haq not out 83 Umar Amin run out (Vitori/Panyangara) 1 Shahid Afridi c Taylor b Vitori 11 Haris Sohail c Utseya b Vitori 2 Sarfraz Ahmed run out (Waller/Taylor) 7 Saeed Ajmal not out 3 Extras: (7lb, 9w) 16 TOTAL: (for 7 wickets) 244 Overs:50.

Did not bat: Junaid Khan, Mohammad Irfan.

Fall of wickets: 1-56, 2-80, 3-179, 4-184, 5-198, 6202, 7-223.

Bowling: Tinashe Panyangara 10-2-38-0 (1w), Brian Vitori 10-0-42-2 (6w), Tendai Chatara 102-32-2 (1w), Prosper Utseya 10-0-60-1, Elton Chigumbura 2-0-11-0 (1w), Malcolm Waller 2-019-0, Sean Williams 4-0-18-0, Hamilton Masakadza 2-0-17-0.

Zimbabwe team: Brendan Taylor (captain), Vusi Sibanda, Hamilton Masakadza, Sean Williams, Timycen Maruma, Malcolm Waller, Elton Chigumbura, Prosper Utseya, Tinashe Panyangara, Tendai Chatara, Brian Vitori.

Toss: won by Pakistan.

Umpires: Richard Illingworth, England, and Russell Tiffin, Zimbabwe.

TV Umpire: Owen Chirombe, Zimbabwe. Match Referee: Jeff Crowe, New Zealand.

Bangladesh’s cricketers deny corruption charges DHAKA: Two Bangladeshi cricketers declared their innocence yesterday after confirming they were among those charged with match-fixing following a probe earlier this month by the sport’s world body. Paceman Mahbubul Alam and left-arm spinner Mosharraf Hossain said they would defend themselves against charges of fixing in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), a scandal that has already brought down teammate and national hero Mohammad Ashraful.

“I am innocent, I was not involved in any kind of corruption,” said Alam, 29, who has played four Tests and four one-day matches for his country. “I have appointed a lawyer to represent me in the (upcoming) disciplinary panel hearing,” Alam said.

Hossain, 31, also confirmed he would contest the charges laid under the Bangladesh Cricket Board’s (BCB) anti-corruption code, ahead of the deadline later for officially responding to the allegations.

Selim Chowdhury, owner of the Dhaka Gladiators BPL franchise, confirmed that he and his son, co-owner Shihab Chowdhury, have also been charged along with the franchise’s Indian CEO Gaurav Rawat. Selim Chowdhury said they would all plead not guilty at the hearing. The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced this month that seven unidentified people had been charged with fixing involving the Dhaka Gladiators, following an investigation by its anticorruption officials. Another two were charged with failing to report corruption when they were approached during the 2013 season of the Twenty20 tournament, in a scandal that further shook confidence in the game across South Asia.

English all-rounder Darren Stevens became the first among the nine accused to reveal his identity,

when he confirmed that he has been charged with failure to report a corrupt approach made to him.

The scandal has already ensnared Ashraful, the former Bangladesh captain, who made a tearful confession to match-fixing on national television in June after being quizzed by the ICC’s officials. He was allegedly involved in fixing a match between the Dhaka Gladiators and the Chittagong Kings.

Local media have reported that the batsman was paid about one million taka ($12,800) to lose the

match on February 2. Ashraful, who became the country’s youngest Test centurion in 2001 at the age of 17, was also allegedly involved in fixing another match 10 days later against the Barisal Burners, which his team lost by seven wickets, local reports have said. Across the border in India, the sport is embroiled in separate spot-fixing and betting scandals in the Indian Premier League, with three cricketers among 39 people charged by police in July. — AFP

Sex-for-fixing Lebanese referees refuse to testify SINGAPORE: Two Lebanese match officials jailed in Singapore for accepting free sex from an alleged match-fixer have refused to return to the city-state to testify at his trial, a court heard yesterday.

Assistant referees Ali Eid, 33, and Abdallah Taleb, 37, were deported in June after serving three-month prison sentences for accepting the services of a prostitute as a bribe from Singaporean nightclub owner Eric Ding Si Yang. Another Lebanese national, referee Ali Sabbagh, testified for the prosecution last month while he was still in Singapore serving a six-month jail term.

Tan Kian Tat Jeffrey, an investigator from the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB), told the court that Ali Eid and Abdallah Taleb had communicated to him through the Lebanese Football Association and a Lebanese diplomat in Singapore their unwillingness to return to testify. State prosecutors had earlier said they hoped they could get the Lebanese pair to appear in court. “Each of them say they have made clear and detailed statements

on their involvement with Ding Si Yang and have nothing to add to the statement which can assist the prosecution in the trial,” Tan said.

Ding’s lawyer Hamidul Haq told the court he would “vehemently” object to the admission of the written statements as evidence as “we don’t have the right to cross-examine them”.

The trial was abruptly adjourned Tuesday to allow Ding’s lawyers to prepare for an “ancillary hearing” on the admissibility of the written statements. Ding, 31, is accused of “corruptly giving gratification” to the three Lebanese football officials as an inducement to fix football matches that they would officiate in the future. He faces a maximum prison term of five years and fines of up to Sg$100,000 (US$80,000) for each of the three charges-all of which he has denied. He separately faces two charges of stealing evidence and obstructing police investigations after he declined to disclose the password to his laptop computer. —AFP

19

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

SPORTS

SPL PREVIEW

Celtic captain issues Euro rallying cry GLASGOW: Celtic captain Scott Brown says the Parkhead club’s recent signings need to stand up and be counted as the Glasgow giants take on Shakhter Karagandy for a place in the group stages of the Champions League.

The Hoops face the Kazakhstan champions at Celtic Park today looking to overturn a 2-0 deficit from their first leg in Astana. There is a place in the lucrative group stage of Europe’s elite competition for the winner while the loser will drop into the group stages of the Europa League.

Scottish international Brown is confident recent signings Amido Balde, Virgil van Dijk, Steven Mouyokolo and Derk Boerrigter will make the grade at

the Glasgow giants. But the midfielder says the summer signings don’t have time to ease themselves into the team and must start making an impact as Celtic face their most crucial game of the season. “It took me a good six months to settle in but these days there isn’t that much time,” the Celtic captain said.

“They’re straight into big games. I don’t know if they realise how huge a club Celtic are but that’s why you come here - to play in the Champions League, in the big matches. They’ll figure that out very quickly. “The home games in the Champions League have left a couple of them gobsmacked. But this is the biggest game of the season now. “Whatever happens we’re in the

Europa League but we want to be in with the big guns. We showed last season we could compete there and we want to show it again.”

Celtic, who came back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw with Inverness in the Scottish Premiership at the weekend, have successfully overturned a 2-0 away first-leg deficit in three of the four occasions they have been faced with the task. They defeated the French side St Etienne 40 in Glasgow in the 1968/69 European Cup, Sporting Lisbon 5-0 in the 1983/84 UEFA Cup and Cologne 3-0 in the 1992/93 UEFA Cup. And Brown is convinced the current crop of Hoops can achieve the same feat with the help of their passionate support.

“The atmosphere at Celtic Park when it’s full is incredible and as soon as Shakhter walk out they’re going to be hit with it,” the midfielder said.

“That’ll put shivers down their spines because I know it did when I came here with Hibs. “They’re going to give us a lot of possession because they will try to defend a 2-0 lead but we’ve got good enough players - including those who didn’t play against Inverness on Saturday - to come in and score goals.

“In the second half against Inverness the fans were behind us 110 per cent and that pushes us on to that extra 10 per cent. “It’s going to take three goals and we’re going to have to start high up the park and put them

under pressure, make them make mistakes. If we don’t score in 70 minutes we’ll stay patient because we know we can score two goals in five minutes. “We just need a few goals and I believe we can do it. It doesn’t matter what anybody else thinks, what matters is the confidence in our dressing room.” European minnows Shakhter Karagandy rested almost their entire first-choice team on Saturday ahead of the crunch tie against Celtic. The defending champions were held 1-1 at home by Irtysh in the Kazakhstan Premier League. But manager Viktor Kumykov selected just one player who featured from the beginning of their 2-0 first-leg win over the Scottish champions.— AFP

Barkley and Townsend handed England call-ups

Barcelona’s Argentinean forward Lionel Messi

Barcelona await Messi for Super Cup decider MADRID: Barcelona will give Lionel Messi every opportunity to prove his fitness ahead of their second-leg of the Spanish Super Cup against Atletico Madrid at the Camp Nou today night.

Messi was taken off at half-time during last week’s 1-1 draw in the first-leg with a thigh injury and missed the Catalans’ 1-0 win away to Malaga on Sunday which moved them back to the top of La Liga.

However, the Argentine took a full part in training on Monday with those who hadn’t been involved in the Malaga game as the majority of his colleagues underwent a recovery session.

“We have two days to make a decision, but with the information that I have today we are very happy with how he is recovering,” Barca boss Gerardo Martino told reporters after Sunday’s game.

However, Martino indicated that Neymar could once miss out from the start despite shining in cameo appearances as a substitute in Barca’s last two games.

The Brazilian scored his first Barca goal to rescue a draw for Martino’s men in the first-leg and again looked like the visitors most dangerous outlet when he replaced Pedro with half an hour to go at La Rosaleda at the weekend.

“Neymar is improving all the time, you can already see the difference in him between the the last two matches and the first one against Levante. “I don’t know when exactly we will start him but you can see mentally he is ready and we will do it at the most opportune time.”

Even if Messi and Neymar don’t start, Martino will make a couple of changes to the side that started against Malaga as Sergio Busquets and Dani Alves will return after being rested in place of Alex Song and Adriano, who is also struggling with a hamstring injury.

Despite the fact that Barca have set the early pace in La Liga, Atleti’s start to the season has been arguably even more impressive as they followed up a 3-1 success at Sevilla on the opening weekend of the season with a 5-0 thrashing of Rayo Vallecano on Sunday to move into second. Manager Diego Simeone has

repeatedly downplayed his side’s chances of competing with Barca and Real Madrid for the title this season, but believes their record of winning three trophies in little over a year shows they have what it takes to go the Camp Nou and lift the club’s first Super Cup since 1985.

“The tie is still alive and we now have a big game at their place,” he said. “I still think the league can only be won by two teams, there are so many games it is almost impossible, but we are talking about a tie over two games and we have shown we can compete in finals.”

Simeone is expected to name the same side that started in the first-leg with former Barca favorite David Villa and the on-form Diego Costa entrusted with the task of exploiting a Barca defense that has looked far from solid in the opening week of the season despite keeping two clean sheets in three games.— AFP

Matches on TV

LONDON: England manager Roy Hodgson yesterday awarded first senior call-ups to Everton youngster Ross Barkley and Tottenham Hotspur winger Andros Townsend for the World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Ukraine.

Barkley, 19, caught the eye with a fine goal at Norwich City on the opening day of the Premier League campaign, while 22-yearold Townsend impressed during a loan spell at Queens Park Rangers last season.

“We’re giving ourselves a chance to look at players who’ve got a very bright future and who are capable of making a difference to a game, as we see them doing each week in Premier League football,” Hodgson said. “Players like Barkley, Townsend and (Liverpool’s Raheem) Sterling can make a difference. They can be players who make a big impact and help you win. They’re there on merit, really.”

Southampton striker Rickie Lambert retains his place after scoring with his first touch on his debut in the 3-2 win over Scotland earlier this month, with Liverpool’s Daniel Sturridge returning after missing that game through injury.

Hodgson said he was pleased to be able to call upon Sturridge again, after he injured his ankle in May’s 1-1 friendly draw with the Republic of Ireland. “It’s great he’s played for Liverpool and done so well,” the England manager said.

“He started so brightly with England in the Ireland game and unfortunately got carried off and it kept him out for two months. But he’s always one we’ve had in mind.” Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster replaces Ben Foster of West Bromwich Albion, who has

LONDON: A combination of file pictures shows (left) Tottenham Hotspur’s English midfielder Andros Townsend and Everton’s English midfielder Ross Barkley. —AFP been ruled out for around 12 weeks with a stress fracture of a bone in his right foot. Hodgson defended first-choice goalkeeper Joe Hart, who was at fault for Scotland’s opening goal in England’s friendly win and was also criticized for his display in Manchester City’s 3-2 loss at Cardiff City on Sunday. “We know

mistake, it’s highlighted. As far as I’m concerned, I’ve every faith in Joe.” England tackle Moldova at Wembley Stadium on September 6 before travelling to Kiev to play Ukraine four days later. Hodgson’s side currently trail Montenegro by two points in European qualifying Group H, but have a game in hand.—AFP

(Local Timings)

UEFA Champions League Zenit v Pacos Ferreira Aljazeera Sport +7 Aljazeera Sport +3 Aljazeera Sport 3 HD Celtic v Shakhter Karagandy Aljazeera Sport +3 AC Milan v PSV Eindhoven Aljazeera Sport +6 Aljazeera Sport 5 HD Real Sociedad v Lyon Aljazeera Sport +1 NK Maribor v Viktoria Plzen Aljazeera Sport +2

Moyes refuses to deny Bale interest

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21:45 21:45

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SPANISH SUPER CUP Barcelona v Atletico de Madrid 0:00 Aljazeera Sport +3 Aljazeera Sport +8 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD

MANCHESTER: Manchester United manager David Moyes says his club have not made an offer for Tottenham Hotspur forward Gareth Bale, but he refused to deny an interest in the player. Bale is poised to join Real Madrid for a world-record fee after several months of courtship by the Spanish giants, but reports emerged in the British media on Monday that a rival club had also shown an interest.

When asked if United had submitted a bid for Bale on Monday, Moyes told reporters: “No”. However, he added: “Manchester United are always interested in the best players and the board and myself would always be looking to sign who we think are the best players, wherever they are.” Moyes was speaking after a goalless draw with Chelsea in the Premier League in his first home game as United manager. The contest was a drab affair, but Moyes was encouraged by a committed display from

striker Wayne Rooney, who belied reports that he is unsettled at the club with a performance of effort and determination. Rooney has been the subject of two failed bids from Chelsea during the close season and their coach Jose Mourinho was pessimistic about the prospects of signing him after the game, saying he would only wait “24 hours, 48 hours” for Rooney to make a decision on his future. “I was very pleased with his performance and I was very pleased with the reaction from the crowd,” said Moyes.

“I’ve got to say, I didn’t think it was unexpected. I expected it. I don’t know how many times I have to say it-he’s been great in training. “I think anybody who looked at him might have seen a slightly leaner-looking Wayne. I said to him, ‘I might only play you for 60-70 minutes tonight, I’ll see how you go.’

“But no, he worked back, he tackled, he

Mourinho praises Bayern ahead of Super Cup clash BERLIN: Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has praised treble-winning Bayern Munich ahead of Friday’s UEFA Super Cup clash and said he wants to measure his side against the European champions. Bayern became the first German team to win the treble of league, cup and Champions League titles last season under previous coach Jupp Heynckes, winning the Bundesliga by 25 points while breaking or equalling 25 league records. Chelsea, who won last season’s Europa League title, square off against Pep Guardiola-coached Bayern at Prague’s Eden Arena stadium and the 50-year-old Mourinho was full of praise for the Bavarians’ achievements.

“With Bayern, what impresses me was always the difficulty of achieving a treble and only great teams with a great mentality and fantastic football qualities manage it,” Mourinho, who is back at Stamford Bridge after three years coaching Real

goalkeepers are always in the firing line-they’re the ones people turn to and look at,” Hodgson said.

“I’m sure Joe is confident enough and big enough to understand these things.

“Goalkeepers like Joe in top teams like Manchester City, and again with England, don’t get a lot to do, so every time you make a

Madrid, told UEFA.com. “To keep that level and that ambition in all three competitions was fantastic, it was remarkable, it was unbelievable work by Mr Heynckes. “Of course I was impressed by the way they performed all last season.”

The Prague showdown will see former Real boss Mourinho continue his rivalry with ex-Barcelona coach Guardiola, who took charge of Bayern in June after winning 14 titles in four years at the Camp Nou between 2008 and 2012. With the group stages of this season’s Champions League to be drawn on Thursday, Mourinho said he is looking forward to seeing how his side measure up against Bayern, 24 hours after they discover their European opponents.

“To play against the best team in the world in the last year is a big challenge for us,” said Mourinho after Chelsea beat Bayern in Munich in the 2012 Champions League final.—AFP

Manchester United’s Scottish manager David Moyes

chased when we needed it.”

Moyes said Rooney had “a positive mind” and rejected the notion that the 27-year-old needs to make a public declaration of allegiance to United. “I think his performance tonight said enough,” he said. “I think his actions tonight showed what he thought.”

Despite his failure to make progress in his attempts to sign the player, Mourinho also praised Rooney’s display, branding him “fantastic” and describing his attitude as “very English”. Although he selected a team with no recognizable strikers, Mourinho could find no place in his starting XI for Juan Mata, but he said it was purely because the Spanish midfielder was short of fitness. “He’s very important for me, very important for Chelsea,” said Mourinho, who added that any reports to the contrary were “nonsense stories” and that Mata was “going nowhere”.

Mourinho also left Fernando Torres on the bench, but he dismissed suggestions that the Spain striker is still to repay the club following his £50 million ($78 million, 58 million euros) switch from Liverpool in January 2011. “He scored a goal that won the UEFA Cup (Europa League), so that means some millions,” Mourinho said. “He scored the goal against Everton that put Chelsea in the Champions League (last season), that means also some millions. “So he’s not already (repaid) 50 maybe he’s 20 now. He’s doing his job.”

Chelsea this week agreed to sign attacking midfielder Willian for a reported fee of £30 million, but Mourinho refused to confirm reports he is interested in the Brazilian’s Anzhi Makhachkala team-mate Samuel Eto’o. “We don’t like to speak about players,” he said with an ironic smile. “It’s dangerous.” Moyes said he had been overwhelmed by the reception he received in his first home game as Alex Ferguson’s successor. “I’m extremely proud to be manager of Manchester United and my family would be as well,” he said. “But I want to earn the reception in the future. I want the claps to be because I’ve won things and I’ve got a good team here.”—AFP

Zimbabwe end winless streak, beat Pakistan

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Townsend and Barkley handed England call-ups

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Sheep sacrifices lift Kazakh Shakhter to Euro big time

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LONDON: Fenerbahce’s Turkish midfielder Selcuk Sahin (center) clears the ball under pressure from Arsenal’s Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey (left) during the UEFA Champions League Play-Off second leg football match at The Emirates Stadium in North London onyesterday. Arsenal won the game 2-0, and the tie 5-0 on aggregate. — AFP

Arsenal in CL for 16th straight year Schalke, Vienna, Steaua qualify amid drama LONDON: A brace from Aaron Ramsey earned Arsenal a 2-0 win over Fenerbahce yesterday that confirmed their place in the Champions League group phase for the 16th consecutive season. Leading 3-0 from last week’s first leg, in which Ramsey also scored, Arsene Wenger’s men finished the job in unfussy fashion at the Emirates Stadium thanks to a goal in each half from the in-form Welsh midfielder.

It was a third straight victory for Arsenal since the shock of their 3-1 loss to Aston Villa on the opening day of the Premier League season, but an injury to Lukas Podolski took some of the gloss off the evening. The German appeared to succumb to a hamstring injury early in the second half, which will only increase calls from impatient fans for Wenger to add

new players to his squad in the final days of the transfer window.

The first-leg result meant Fenerbahce had not travelled in hope, and they must now await the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s decision on their appeal against a two-year UEFA ban for match-fixing, which will be delivered on Wednesday. Arsenal had an early fright when Raul Meireles deflected Bacary Sagna’s attempted clearance back towards goal and Wojciech Szczesny had to produce a reflex save, but the tie was wrapped up inside 25 minutes.

Podolski sent Theo Walcott into the Fenerbahce box and although he was dispossessed, Caner Erkin’s sliding challenge sent the ball straight to Ramsey, who swept home from 12 yards. Fenerbahce goalkeeper Volkan

Demirel prevented Olivier Giroud from increasing Arsenal’s advantage with a sharp save, before Szczesny displayed his alertness at the other end by touching Emmanuel Emenike’s drive onto the post.

The aggregate scoreline robbed the game of any real drama, but there was a moment of potential significance early in the second period when Podolski had to be stretchered off with what looked to be a hamstring problem.

Wenger can scarcely afford to lose more firstteam players, and the appearance of sole closeseason signing Yaya Sanogo from the bench only served to highlight his lack of options in the forward line.

There was solace, of sorts, on the pitch, however. Demirel produced a finger-tip save to

deny Santi Cazorla and Walcott bent a free-kick against the crossbar, before Ramsey made it 2-0 in the 72nd minute with an insouciant side-foot volley from Kieran Gibbs’s cross. Ramsey walked off the pitch and onto the substitutes’ bench before injury time had elapsed, without being replaced, but there was no indication that he, too, had succumbed to injury.

Meanwhile, Schalke 04, Austria Vienna and former European champions Steaua Bucharest survived drama-packed, topsy-turvy playoff ties to secure Champions League group stage places, and handsome payouts yesterday.

Schalke, held 1-1 at home by PAOK in the first leg, won 3-2 away to the Greek side in the return, scoring their second and third goals with 10 men after Jermaine Jones was sent off.

Adam Szalai scored twice for the Bundesliga side, who were facing their former coach Huub Stevens, while their other goal was a brilliant effort by Julian Draxler. Austria Vienna, 2-0 winners at coachless Dinamo Zagreb in the first leg, took an early lead in the return, looked to have blown it as they fell 3-1 behind, only to snatch a decisive late goal which put them in the group stage for the first time.

Steaua Bucharest, held 1-1 at home by Legia Warsaw in the first leg, took advantage of a calamitous opening period from the Polish side to go 2-0 ahead inside nine minutes. Legia fought back for a 2-2 draw on the night but it was not enough as Steaua went through on away goals following the 3-3 draw on aggregate. — Agencies

Nadal, Williams sisters cruise at the US Open NEW YORK: Rafa Nadal made an ominous return to the US Open on Monday while the sister act of Serena and Venus Williams shared the spotlight as the last grand slam of the year got underway. Roared on by the energetic Flushing Meadows crowds, the trio turned on a masterclass of power hitting at Arthur Ashe Stadium before New York’s fickle weather brought proceedings to an early end.

A late rain shower forced tournament organizers to abandon the opening day’s play before former world number one Roger Federer was about start his match against Slovenia’s Grega Zemlja. Nadal, who missed last year’s US Open because of a chronic knee problem, demonstrated his intentions to make up for lost time as he demolished American wildcard Ryan Harrison 6-4 6-2 6-2 during the day session.

Bouncing around the unforgiving hardcourt like a kangaroo, the Spaniard chalked up 28 winners despite the blustery conditions at the US National Tennis Center. “For me, the chance to be back here playing is great,” said Nadal. “The first match after two years in the Arthur Ashe is a great feeling.” Serena needed just one hour to remind everyone why she remains the overwhelming favorite to win the

women’s title as she demolished Italy’s Francesca Schiavone 6-0 6-1.

The American showed no mercy against her opponent, who won the French Open in 2010 and was a finalist in Paris the following year, conceding just 23 points in the 60minute romp. “I knew playing a former grand slam champion in the first round was a really tough draw so I decided to be super serious,” she said. Not to be outdone, her older sister Venus rolled back the years with a headturning appearance on the center court, arriving with her hair braided and dyed a deep purple.

Her fingernails were also polished in the same vivid fuschia and no repeat of the injury problems that have sidelined her for most of the year as she dispatched Belgium’s Kirsten Flipkens 6-1 6-2. The 33-year-old, the second oldest player in the women’s singles draw, provided a glimpse of the form that saw her win the US Open in 2000 and 2001 as she strolled to a surprisingly quick win. “It’s good to be back,” said Williams, who has only played 18 matches this year and slipped to 60th in the world rankings while Flipkens is enjoying the best season of her career. The 27-year-old made the semi-finals at Wimbledon in July, her best result at any grand slam, and was seeded

12th for the US Open but found Williams too hot. “When Venus is on fire, she is on fire,” said Flipkens. “If Venus is fit and she’s focused she’s a top 10 player. Today she was like a top 10 player.”

Flipkens was the first notable casualty on a day where most of the top players safely made it through. China’s Li Na, the 2011 French Open champion and runner-up in Australia this year, needed just 64 minutes to crush Olga Govortsova of Belarus 6-2 6-2. And Poland’s Agnieszka Radwanska, the third seed, was even more ruthless, thumping Spain’s Silvia Soler-Espinosa 6-1 6-2 in 63 minutes in the opening match on the center court.

There was an early upset in the men’s draw when Japan’s Kei Nishikori, Asia’s highestranked man, was beaten 6-4 6-2 6-2 by English qualifier Dan Evans, ranked 179th. “It’s definitely a good one,” said Evans, playing in his first US Open. “That was pretty good out there to play so well and against someone so highly ranked.” Russia’s Alisa Kleybanova made an emotional return to the grand slam circuit, more than two and a half years after she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of blood cancer.

The now 24-year-old underwent

NEW YORK: Serena Williams celebrates a point during her women’s singles first round match against Francesca Schiavone of Italy on Day One of the 2013 US Open. — AFP chemotherapy through most of 2011 and after circuit, Blake was inspired to take up tennis beating the disease she decided on a come- after hearing Arthur Ashe address a group of back. “All those things are over for me now,” young players at a tennis clinic in Harlem. He she said after defeating Puerto Rico’s Monica turned professional in 1999 after attending Puig 6-4 3-6 7-5. “I went through them. I came Harvard University and despite enduring out as a winner in that battle.” Just as the first moments of hardship, including breaking his matches were starting, American James Blake neck in a freak accident in Rome in 2004, he announced he was retiring after the Aug 26- retained a sense of perspective. “This is my last Sept. 9 championships, ending a 14-year tournament,” he said. “I have had 14 pretty career where he rose to number four in the darn good years on tour, loved every minute world rankings. of it, and I definitely couldn’t have asked for a One of the most respected players on the better career.” — Reuters

Business

Oman signs MoU to import Iranian gas Page 22 Kuwait inflation steady at 3% in June

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

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Turkish CB won’t defend lira with interest rates

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Harvard Business School uncovers the secret to NBK’s success Page 26

MUMBAI: Onlookers watch share prices on the digital broadcast on the facade of Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building during intra day trade in Mumbai yesterday. The benchmark Sensex index plunged 3.18 percent to close at 17,968.08 points, while local prices of gold, considered a safer investment, rose. (Inset) A shopkeeper makes a garland with Indian 20-rupee banknotes for sale in Jammu yesterday.—AFP/AP

Indian rupee sinks, stocks plunge Confidence in govt falters MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: India’s rupee hit a record low and posted its biggest percentage fall in 18 years yesterday as parliament’s approval of a $20 billion plan to provide cheap grain to the poor renewed doubts about government resolve to control spending ahead of elections due next year.

The alarm over India’s fiscal deficit eclipsed an announcement by Finance Minister P Chidambaram that the government had approved infrastructure projects worth 1.83 trillion rupees ($28.4 billion), a step aimed at reviving economic growth and shoring up investor confidence.

Instead, the rupee plumbed new depths while shares plunged after Chidambaram spoke due to investor anxiety about a country also facing other challenges, including a record current account deficit and the weakest economic growth in a decade. Despite measures to address these concerns, including a slew of steps to attract dollar inflows and curb gold imports, Indian policymakers are struggling to instil confidence and end the climate of fear that traders say is gripping currency markets.

In an appearance in parliament in the afternoon, Chidambaram acknowledged the government’s need to do more. “What we need now is not less reforms but more reforms. What we need now is not more restrictions but less restrictions. What we

need now is not a closed economy but a more open economy,” Chidambaram told lawmakers. The rupee has lost 17 percent against the dollar so far this year - making it the worst performer by far among Asian emerging market currencies tracked by Reuters - despite frantic attempts by the government and central bank to support it and repeated comments by the finance minister that the rupee is oversold.

The partially convertible rupee slumped to a record low of 66.30 to the dollar, despite central bank intervention to ease the pace of the decline, surpassing its previous all-time low of 65.56 hit last Thursday.

The currency fell 2.9 percent on the day to close at 66.24/25, its biggest single-day percentage fall since October 1995 according to Thomson Reuters data and its biggest fall ever in absolute terms.

Shares also slumped, sending the benchmark BSE index down more than 3 percent and benchmark 10-year bond yields up 44 basis points. Indian markets have been caught in a downward spiral since May as the prospect for a tapering off in the Federal Reserve’s period of cheap money exposes India’s vulnerability among emerging markets.

“The trinity of the fiscal deficit, slowing growth and an unstable currency is hitting us badly. In addition to these, the government has passed the food security bill which may put fear in the mind of rating

• Food bill raises fiscal fears

agencies,” said G. Chokkalingam, managing director and chief investment officer of Centrum Wealth Management in Mumbai.

India’s oil minister Veerappa Moily said yesterday the country was looking to save $25 billion on oil imports in the current fiscal year, citing a request from the prime minister.

Oil is India’s biggest import, with the import bill rising 9.2 percent to $169.25 billion in the year that ended in March.

Worries are growing that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s coalition government will be tempted into a populist spending splurge ahead of the general elections due

by May and so will struggle to meet the fiscal deficit target. The 1.35 trillion rupees ($20.94 billion) Food Security Bill is a key part of the ruling Congress party’s strategy to win re-election, with its focus on selling subsidised wheat and rice to 67 percent of India’s population of 1.2 billion. Kotak Institutional Equities said there would be “no free lunch”, estimating India’s subsidy burden would reach 827 billion rupees from the budgeted 606 billion rupees, citing the costs of procurement, logistics and identifying beneficiaries.

Chidambaram yesterday pledged the bill would not lead the government to meet its fiscal deficit target. “I have already said that 4.8 percent of GDP and the absolute number that was indicated in the budget is a red line. The red line will not be

breached,” Chidambaram told a morning news conference. The food bill comes at a time when the government is showing signs of having increased spending since the start of the fiscal year in April, reversing an earlier tight grip, while tax revenues could stagnate amidst a slowing economy.

That is raising concerns about a potential ratings downgrade, although Standard & Poor’s is the only one of the three major credit agencies to have a negative outlook on India’s BBB-minus sovereign credit rating. Chidambaram also sought to address concerns about the economic slowdown by pledging to kickstart 36 stalled projects in sectors ranging from oil and gas to roads and railways.

However, analysts say these projects will not take off quickly, while the government has little to show from recent economic reforms. Its move last year to allow foreign investment in the retail sector has yet to attract a proposal, though its liberalisation of the aviation industry has yielded investment plans from Malaysia’s AirAsia and Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Airways.

“I don’t think these announcements in particular will incrementally have any impact on sentiment until we see visible impact of implementation and execution of these projects,” said HDFC Bank chief economist Abheek Barua, referring to the government’s drive to energise the infrastructure sector. — Reuters

US, European stocks crash over Syria fears NEW YORK: Stocks declined broadly in trading yesterday as investors feared that the possibility of a US military intervention in Syria could become a reality. The Dow Jones industrial average lost 98 points, or 0.6 percent, to 14,851 as of noon EDT. The Standard & Poor’s 500 fell 15 points, or 0.9 percent, to 1,641 and the Nasdaq composite dropped 45 points, or 1.2 percent, to 3,612.

Investors have fretted about US-led military action against the regime of President Bashar Assad since Secretary of State John Kerry said Monday that it was “undeniable” that the Syrian government used chemical weapons.

“The law of unintended consequences and the history of previous military interventions in the region is not a recipe for political and economic stability,” said Neil MacKinnon, global macro strategist at VTB Capital. Traders moved money into investments typically considered safe during times of crisis or uncertainty, like gold and US government bonds.

Gold rose $27, or 2 percent, to $1,420.20 an ounce while the yield on the benchmark 10year Treasury note fell to 2.76 percent from 2.79 percent Monday. “People worry about this becoming a worst-case scenario and turning into a regional conflict,” said Bill Stone, chief investment strategist at PNC Asset Management. Oil prices also rose. While Syria itself has little oil to impact energy

prices, traders feared an intervention in Syria could cause further instability in the Middle East and possibly disrupt the flow of oil from the region. Oil jumped $2.77, or 2.8 percent, to $108.70 a barrel, the highest price since May 2011. Energy prices dragged down the airline sector on concerns that higher oil prices could lead to higher fuel costs. United Continental Holdings, the world’s largest airline by revenue, dropped $2.41, or 8 percent, to $27.44 and Delta Air Lines lost $1.27, or 6 percent, to $19. Stone said oil prices could start weighing on consumer spending down the road, but it is still too early to gauge the longer-term impact. Concerns over a US-Syria conflict spilled over into global markets.

In Europe, the Britain’s FTSE 100 index fell 0.8 percent at 6,440 while Germany’s DAX fell 2.3 percent to 8,242. The CAC 40 in France was 2.4 percent lower at 3,968. In corporate news, discount shoe seller DSW jumped $6.44, or 8 percent, to $87.76 after the company reported an adjusted profit of 97 cents per share, easily beating analysts’ estimate of 80 cents per share, according to FactSet. J C Penney rose 46 cents, or 3.5 percent, to $13.81 after the company’s biggest investor, Bill Ackman, said he plans to sell his entire stake in the discount department store chain.

Wall Street is also digesting two economic reports, one on US consumer sentiment, the other on home prices. The Conference Board

said its consumer confidence index rose to 81.5 in August, up from 80.3 the month before. Economists had expected 79, according to FactSet.The Standard & Poor’s/CaseShiller 20-city home price index rose 12.1 per-

cent in June from a year earlier, nearly matching a seven-year high. But month-over-month price gains slowed in most markets, a sign that higher mortgage rates may be weighing on the housing recovery. —AP

NEW YORK: Traders gather at a post on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange yesterday.—AP

Dubai plummets 7%, Kuwait drops 2.9% MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS DUBAI: Dubai’s stock market tumbled 7.0 percent yesterday, its heaviest one-day loss since the emirate’s corporate debt crisis in November 2009, as it led a regional sell-off on worries about an escalation of Syria’s civil war. Western powers told the Syrian opposition to expect a Western strike against President Bashar al-Assad’s forces within days, after determining his government was responsible for the use of chemical weapons, sources told Reuters. It is by no means clear that an escalation of the fighting in Syria would have any impact on Gulf economies. Although it is possible that Damascus and its allies could mount covert action against the Gulf, such action would probably not change positive long-term economic prospects. Abu Dhabi’s measure lost 2.8 percent yesterday while Kuwait’s benchmark fell 2.9 percent.

Retail traders dominate in Kuwait’s market after a sharp early-year rise pushed it up to levels not seen in more than four years. The market is still up 30.9 percent year-to-date.

“Nothing that’s happening has to do with Kuwait companies’ financials are good and there’s no reason for the market to fall except geopolitical risk,” said Fouad Darwish, head of brokerage services at Global Investment House. Several Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia have already been supporting Syrian rebels for many months with no negative consequences. Geopolitical tensions can actually benefit the Gulf in one way by pushing up global oil prices.

But Gulf markets were near multi-year highs, so they were vulnerable to a sudden wave of profit-taking by the retail investors who have dominated trade in recent weeks and wanted to lock in gains.

“Politically, the region is a mess and concerns about the war in Syria are high,” said Yassir Mckee, wealth manager at Qatar ’s Al Rayan Financial Brokerage. “But the extent of the drop doesn’t make sense and people are over-reacting because local fundamentals are strong and even if there is a war, I don’t see it significantly impacting Gulf countries.” Dubai’s index sank to 2,550 points, cutting its year-to-date gains to 57.7 percent. Margin calls hit local individual investors, who were net sellers according to bourse data, while foreigners were net buyers.

Margin calls may keep Dubai under pressure today but there is no sign that the positive long-term technical outlooks of Dubai and most other Gulf markets have changed. Yesterday’s slide brought Dubai back to its levels of just a month ago. Dubai’s index is longterm bullish after July’s decisive break above major resistance on the October 2009 peak of 2,409 points; that triggered a double bottom formed by the 2009 and 2010 lows and pointing up to around 3,300 points in the very long run. Immediate chart support is at the 2,500-point level, where the market peaked in June and found support in July. Saudi Arabia tumbled 4.1 percent, its largest one-day loss since August 2011, to below the psychologically important 8,000point level. The heavyweight petrochemicals sector slid 3.5 percent despite rising global oil prices, while the banking sector, the other main weight in the market, also fell 3.5 percent. — Reuters

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

BUSINESS

New Iran CB chief starts work with inflation target DUBAI: Iran’s new central bank governor, Valiollah Seif, took office yesterday amid expectations he may hike rates in an effort pull down rampant inflation and attract more money into bank deposits.

Seif is charged with reining in 40 percent-plus inflation and helping to rescue the economy which is battered by Western sanctions imposed over Tehran’s disputed nuclear program. He has held top positions at several private and state-owned Iranian banks and has said Iran’s interest rates ideally should not be lower than inflation - prompting the expectations of higher rates.

In his early 60s, Seif was appointed by Iranian

President Hassan Rouhani, who took office on Aug 3 promising to work to lift the sanctions while reducing inflation and unemployment. Iran raised interest rates on bank deposits to around 21 percent in 2012 in an unsuccessful effort to curb inflation.

Seif’s predecessor, Mahmoud Bahmani, who served under previous President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, was criticized for failing to control wild fluctuations of Iran’s rial currency.

The Western sanctions against Iran’s oil exports and its banking sector have slashed its ability to earn foreign currency, pushing down the rial to about 32,000 against the US dollar in the free mar-

ket from about 11,000 in 2011. The free market rate is used by most Iranians to obtain hard currency, although the government also uses a stronger rate for some purposes such as financing imports of key goods. Seif has signalled that he will not try to engineer any major recovery of the rial in the free market. “Right now the value of the dollar in the free market is 32,000 rials, and this is not such an illogical rate,” Fars news agency quoted him as saying on Sunday: Lawmakers hostile to Ahmadinejad also accused Bahmani of failing to maintain the central bank’s independence and printing money to help the Ahmadinejad administration bridge a big budg-

et deficit. “All monetary and banking activities must be supervised by the central bank so that the movement in the direction of disciplined financial practices is strengthened,” Seif was quoted as saying on Monday by Khabaronline, an Iranian news site. But he also sought this week to temper any expectations for a quick end to Iran’s economic difficulties.

“We can’t see very positive changes in the economy in a short amount of time,” he was quoted as saying on Monday by the ISNA news agency. “We must give the new government time so it can take useful and precise decisions after a careful review of the situation.” — Reuters

Oman signs MoU to import Iranian gas 25-year deal valued at $60bn YANGON: Airport staff clean an Asian Wings aircraft at Yangon’s international airport yesterday. Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) said it would acquire a 49 percent stake in Myanmar airline AWA (Asian Wings Airways), in the latest foray into the rapidlyopening and potentially lucrative Southeast Asian market. — AFP

ANA to buy stake in Myanmar airline TOKYO: Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) said yesterday it would acquire a 49 percent stake in a Myanmar airline, the latest foray into the rapidly-opening and potentially lucrative Southeast Asian market. Foreign firms have piled into Myanmar since the installation of a nominally civilian government in 2011, eager to make the most of opportunities in a fastchanging country, but this is the first move on an airline. “ANA Group will invest $25 million (2.5 billion yen) for AWA (Asian Wings Airways) as part of its stated strategy of expanding into new international markets,” ANA Holdings-the parent of one of Japan’s major airlines-said in a statement.

“As part of the investment, ANA will also work with AWA to improve its operational and on-time performance and support its expansion into markets outside Myanmar,” the company said. The Japanese airline also said it will employ larger aircraft and make the currently three-flights-a-week service daily between Tokyo’s Narita and Yangon from the end of September. “The acquisition of the stake in AWA represents the first investment in a Myanmar-based commercial carrier by a foreign airline,” the statement said. “ANA intends to capture an increasing share of the fast-

growing Asian airline market and this investment in AWA will support that strategic goal,” it added.

Shares in ANA Holdings fell 0.47 percent to 208 yen on the Tokyo Stock Exchange yesterday after reports of the deal. The formal announcement came after the Tokyo bourse closed, with the benchmark Nikkei index having shed 0.69 percent. Asian Wings, based in the commercial hub of Yangon, flies to 13 cities in Myanmar. It will begin an international service this October.

The Myanmar carrier is considered a midtier player in a domestic market packed with nine airlines, including the government-run Myanmar Airways. With demand for travel in Japan expected to remain largely flat because of the greying, shrinking population, ANA is trying to capture rising demand in Southeast Asia. In October, ANA restarted direct flights from Narita to Yangon after a 12-year hiatus, pointing to the rising number of business travellers and tourists headed to Myanmar.

Unlike many industrialised countries, Japan maintained trade ties and generous aid for Myanmar while it was ruled by a military junta, warning that taking a hard line could push it closer to China. —AFP

Abu Dhabi appoints board for free zone ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi named a chairman and the board for a new financial free zone it hopes will attract top global banks and financial firms when it launches in the fourth quarter. The oil-rich emirate outlined plans in May for the zone on an island near its downtown area that will have its own administration, court system and tax incentives. The zone is seen as a challenge to neighboring city state Dubai, which has prospered as the top financial centre in the region for nearly a decade.

Ahmed Ali Al-Sayegh, chairman of green energy firm Masdar, chief executive of state-owned Dolphin Energy and the deputy chairman of Abu Dhabi Media, was

named chairman of the Global Marketplace Abu Dhabi (GMAD). The board includes Mohammed Darwish Mohamed al Khouri, a board member of Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and executive director of internal equities at Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds. Other members include Ali Majid Mubarak Al-Mansouri, chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports Authority, Ibrahim Obeid Al-Zaabi, deputy chief executive for issuance and legal affairs at market regulator Securities & Commodities Authority (SCA), and Mohammad Naim Al-Qubaisi, a director at the Department of Economic Development in Abu Dhabi. — Reuters

DUBAI: Iran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) yesterday to export gas to Oman from 2015, in a 25-year deal valued at around $60 billion, Iran’s energy ministry news service said.

Energy-hungry Oman agreed to buy gas from Iran as far back as 2005 and a later draft deal in 2007 included plans for Oman to process Iranian gas for export as liquefied natural gas (LNG). But the two sides have never finalised terms and Oman has been pressured by the United States to source fuel from alternative suppliers such as Qatar, according to US embassy cables released

by Wikileaks.

Oman, which has warmer relations with Iran than other Arabian Peninsula countries, began importing Qatari gas in 2007, but its demand has risen rapidly since, threatening its LNG exports and pushing Muscat back to the negotiating table with Tehran.

The latest MoU signed by new Iranian energy

minister Bijan Zanganeh and his Omani counterpart Mohammed bin Hamad Al Rumhy, includes an agreement to start laying a gas pipeline to Oman as soon as possible, oil ministry news service Shana reported. “We can start implementation of the project; mainly because top executives of the two countries insist that the project should be implemented as soon as possible,” Shana quoted Zanganeh as saying after the signing ceremony held on Monday during a visit to Tehran by Oman ruler Sultan Qaboos.

Iran sits on the world’s largest gas reserves, according to the latest statistics compiled by BP, but it has been prevented from exporting much of it because of western sanctions that have slammed the brakes on its LNG export ambitions. Oman has plants able to produce up to 10.4 million tons of LNG a year but has not produced more than 8.8 million in the last five years and output fell to 8.4 million in 2012, according to Oman LNG’s latest annual report.

According to a working copy of the 2007 agreement between the two countries, in addition to imports of 1 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) of gas from Iran for domestic use, Oman would allocate 2 million metric tons per year in excess capacity at its Oman LNG plant to process Iranian gas for export. The copy of that agreement was obtained by the US embassy in Muscat according to 2007 cable leaked to Wikileaks.

It is very unlikely that the big European shareholders. Iranian gas while EU sanctions on Iran are in place, but Iranian gas imported for domestic use could free up more Omani fuel to feed Oman’s existing LNG export facilities. In addition to sanctions pressure, US ally Oman’s enthusiasm for building the pipeline with Iran may depend on whether it can agree terms for BP to develop the Kazzan tight gas project, which could supply around 1 billion cubic feet per day by 2018. — Reuters

China, India shore up alumina sales to Iran HONG KONG/BHUBANESWAR: Iran has hiked purchases of alumina from China and India in the past two months as the country scrambles to shore up supply after the US tightened sanctions on raw and semi-processed materials at the start of July.

Western measures targeting Iran’s disputed nuclear program have hit many sectors of its economy including industries producing steel and other metals, where it is heavily dependent on imports.

Tehran says its atomic work is peaceful.

Tightened US sanctions came into effect on July 1 that extended a ban on aluminum metal to cover raw and semi-finished metals as well.

China and India have won waivers from any US sanctions on their financial system related to trade with Iran because they have cut imports of Iranian oil.

China’s alumina exports to Iran jumped to record levels in June and July, customs data shows, while India’s national aluminum producer has awarded an alumina tender to Iran’s national smelter in the past two months, company sources say. “Iran has historically had a decent-sized aluminum industry. Given the savage squeeze in the international sanctions against it, clearly it’s easier for Iran to do these kind of transactions with countries like China,” said Nic Brown, an commodities analyst at Natixis in London.

“Particularly if they are handled as some sort of barter arrangement, where China gets its energy and in return it provides raw or intermediate goods,” he added. Alumina is a refined version of the raw ore bauxite. It is typically used to make aluminum, but in its high purity form it can have sensitive military applications. But the price of the material would indicate that Iran’s imports from China and India are likely to have been of lower

quality smelter grade alumina rather than the high-purity material known as chemical grade, traders said.

Chemical grade alumina can have military uses, such as to make ceramic composites used in missiles and armor. The prices Iran paid for the material from India and China were less than a quarter of that for chemical grade material.

Aluminum alloys can be used to make tubes for uranium enrichment gas centrifuges. Most newer gas centrifuges are made of a carbon composite material, though Iran’s current centrifuge program in operation is based on aluminum.

Aluminum is also used in everything from cars to aircraft, buildings and cans.

China, the world’s top producer and consumer of alumina, exported 15,072 tons to Iran in July and 15,078 tons in June, customs data showed.

That compared with sales to Iran of 553 tons for the whole of last year, out of China’s total 2012 alumina exports of43,293 tons, customs data shows.

It is unclear from official customs data which companies have been selling to Iran and where the alumina was produced.

Sources in international and Chinese trading houses said the alumina recently shipped to Iran probably came from China’s bonded warehouses, where the alumina has not paid China’s 17 percent value-added tax, which means the metal was most likely produced outside of China.

Iran has been paying a premium to domestic Chinese prices, making the metal attractive to reexport rather than import into China, traders said.

In India, the National Aluminum Co Ltd (NALCO) has awarded a sell tender to the Iran Aluminum Company (Iralco), two sources said.

The European Union sanctioned Iralco in December 2012 for supplying aluminum to The Iran Centrifuge Technology Co (TESA), which is a subsidiary of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI). Swiss trading giants Trafigura and Glencore Xstrata have both supplied alumina to Iralco in the past as par t of bar ter deals in exchange for aluminum, but both halted supplies over new EU sanctions.

NALCO company officials, including Chairman and MD Ansuman Das declined to comment on the tender award. Iralco could not immediately be reached for comment.

A senior official at India’s mines ministry, under which state-owned NALCO operates, said the government was not looking into the issue but could investigate if required. “In general, we do not have anything against trade ties with Iran,” the official said. The sale was for 30,000 tons of alumina to Iralco and shipments were due to start in August, the sources said. The deal comes as India tries to boost exports to Iran to balance a trade deficit with the country due to India’s oil imports. India is seeking to boost overall exports worldwide to shore up its currency, which has sunk to record lows. “( The) Indian government is encouraging exports to Iran. There is nothing wrong in NALCO exporting alumina to that country,” a senior company official who declined to be identified due to corporate policy told Reuters.

NALCO said last week it planned to raise its alumina exports by 40 percent to 1.4 million tonnes this fiscal year to help India increase dollar inflows as global investors dump emerging market currencies anticipating the gradual end to US stimulus. — Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES 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 Irani Riyal

2.899 4.447 2.741 2.140 2.726 222.380 36.702 3.654 6.403 8.850 0.271 0.273 GCC COUNTRIES

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

75.937 78.244 739.640 756.340 77.551

ARAB COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound - Cash Egyptian Pound - Transfer Yemen Riyal/for 1000 Tunisian Dinar Jordanian Dinar Lebanese Lira/for 1000 Syrian Lier Morocco Dirham

41.950 40.658 1.329 173.570 402.130 1.910 3.094 34.713

EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 284.650 Euro 382.000 Sterling Pound 444.620 Canadian dollar 271.460 Turkish lira 141.900 Swiss Franc 309.840 Australian Dollar 256.190 US Dollar Buying 283.450 GOLD 20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

263.000 133.000 68.000

UAE Exchange Centre WLL COUNTRY Australian Dollar Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc Euro US Dollar 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

SELL DRAFT 260.64 274.44 312.83 384.04 284.05 446.50 2.94 3.670 4.418 2.143 2.773 2.747 77.40 756.02 40.63 404.27 738.71 78.44 75.88

SELL CASH 261.000 275.000 313.000 386.000 285.500 449.000 3.000 3.780 4.800 2.700 3.220 2.900 77.900 757.900 41.000 410.000 740.000 78.800 76.200

Malaysian Ringgit Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

Bahrain Exchange Company COUNTRY British Pound Czech Korune Danish Krone Euro Norwegian Krone Scottish Pound Swedish Krona Swiss Franc

SELL CASH Europe 0.4358200 0.0065615 0.0469785 0.3752942 0.0432463 0.4337028 0.0395508 0.3038091

0.4448200 0.0185615 0.0519785 0.3827942 0.0484463 0.4412028 0.0445506 0.3108091

Australian Dollar New Zealand Dollar Uganda Shilling

Australasia 0.2459809 0.2147588 0.0001127

0.2579809 0.2247588 0.0001127

Canadian Dollar Colombian Peso US Dollars

America 0.2638155 0.0001447 0.2823000

0.2728155 0.0001627 0.2844500

Bangladesh Taka Cape Vrde Escudo Chinese Yuan Eritrea-Nakfa Guinea Franc Hg Kong Dollar Indian Rupee Indonesian Rupiah Jamaican Dollars Japanese Yen Kenyan Shilling Malaysian Ringgit Nepalese Rupee Pakistan Rupee Philippine Peso Sierra Leone

Asia 0.0036121 0.0031552 0.0454730 0.0164300 0.0000441 0.0341269 0.0043018 0.0000211 0.0028406 0.0028145 0.0031878 0.0815701 0.0025730 0.0027148 0.0059525 0.0000727

0.0036671 0.0033852 0.0504730 0.0195300 0.0000501 0.0372269 0.0043668 0.0000262 0.0038406 0.0029945 0.0034178 0.0885701 0.0027730 0.0027548 0.0064225 0.0000757

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Rate for Transfer 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

Selling Rate 284.400 271.640 444.385 381.000 309.255 752.955 77.410 78.065 76.705 400.910 40.655 2.144 4.485 2.740 3.656 6.420 697.645 3.880 9.175 4.060 3.890

86.526 3.890 86.526 3.890 86.526

SELLDRAFT

Singapore Dollar Sri Lankan Rupee Thai Baht

0.2180962 0.0021030 0.0084734

0.2240962 0.0021450 0.0090734

Bahraini Dinar Egyptian Pound Ethiopeanbirr Ghanaian Cedi Iranian Riyal Iraqi Dinar Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Lebanese Pound Moroccan Dirhams Nigerian Naira Omani Riyal Qatar Riyal Saudi Riyal Sudanese Pounds Syrian Pound Tunisian Dinar UAE Dirhams Yemeni Riyal

Arab 0.7480832 0.0386438 0.0126425 0.1446254 0.0000791 0.0001837 0.3956266 1.0000000 0.0001744 0.0225463 0.0012076 0.7278199 0.0774761 0.0753200 0.0462492 0.0019382 0.1717385 0.0760179 0.0012831

0.7565832 0.0406588 0.0191425 0.1464154 0.0000796 0.0002437 0.4031266 1.0000000 0.0001944 0.0465463 0.0018426 0.7388190 0.0782591 0.0759600 0.0467992 0.0021582 0.1777386 0.0774679 0.0013831

Al Mulla Exchange Currency US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Indian Rupee Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupee Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso Pakistan Rupee Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Saudi Riyal *Rates are subject to change

Transfer Rate (Per 1000) 284.100 382.900 444.650 272.950 4.437 40.645 2.141 3.651 6.451 2.743 756.500 77.400 75.900

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

BUSINESS

Kuwait inflation steady at 3% in June NBK ECONOMIC REPORT KUWAIT: The Consumer Price Index went up by 3.0 percent y/y in June, similar to the increase in May. But the major components of the consumer basket did not see their inflation rates carry over from May. Inflation in the food component slowed in June, but this was offset by an increase in price inflation in housing services as well as in furnishing and household maintenance, among other components. With some non-food components edging higher, core CPI went up by 2.4 percent y/y in June, from 2.1 percent in May. Inflation in housing services reached 4.0 percent y/y in June, from 3.2 percent in May. Housing services were the largest source of upward inflationary pressure in June, though Inflation in this component should see little movement for the 2 months following June, as most of its sub-components are not updated monthly. Rent, which makes up most of this component, was up by 4.5 percent y/y in June, from 3.6 percent in May. Anecdotal evidence points to increased pressure on rents. If such pressures were to materialize in the index, they could easily push inflation higher, as

the housing component makes up 29 percent of the CPI. Prices in the furnishing and household maintenance component went up by 2.7 percent y/y in June, from 2.2 percent in May. This also contributed significantly to the upward pressure on the CPI, as the component is the third largest in the index, making up 11 percent of the general index. But the component has been relatively stable in recent months, averaging 2.4 percent in 1H2013, below its 2011 highs.

Offsetting some of the upward pressure, inflation in the food and beverages segment slowed to 5.8 percent y/y in June, from 6.3 percent y/y in May. Nonetheless, food price inflation in June was still higher than the average for 1H2013, which stood at 4.1 percent. Some easing in the prices of certain sub-components could continue in the near future, resulting in more modest inflation figures in the food segment (excluding some potential one-offs such as Ramadan).

Another source of downward inflationary pressure was transport, where prices went up 1.4 percent y/y in June, down from 1.7 percent in May. The easing came

from lower inflation (or deflation) in some sub-components, such as the purchase of and repair of personal vehicles. Miscellaneous goods and services inflation stood at 2.9 percent in June, down from 4.3 percent in May. The component had previously been a source of upward pressure on general inflation, though it had an opposite effect in June. The 1.4 percentage point drop in the June rate came from lower inflation rates in some personal effects items, such as gold jewelry (up 1.6 percent y/y in June, from 15.6 percent in May).

We expect inflation to remain contained for the remainder of this year, averaging around 2.5 percent for 2013 as a whole (similar to its 1H 2013 average).

Key to this is an expected further decline in food price inflation, linked to international food price trends. This should broadly offset what we see as a slight increase in core inflation as the year goes on, including potentially higher housing costs. Overall, we are still some way from price pressures becoming a major concern for the authorities, who are likely to retain a progrowth policy bias.

US ‘vultures’ shake up the world of sovereign debt

MUMBAI: Onlookers watch share prices on the digital broadcast on the facade of Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building during intra day trade in Mumbai yesterday. The benchmark Sensex index plunged 3.18 percent to close at 17,968.08 points, while local prices of gold, considered a safer investment, rose. — AFP

Total to buy Chevron’s Egypt retail network CAIRO: French oil major Total said it had agreed to buy the Egyptian retail network of US energy company Chevron, in a move it said would create its biggest marketing and services subsidiary outside Europe. Total said the Chevron network has annual sales of more than 1.4 million tonnes and includes 66 service stations, two oil depots and the aviation fuel operations at Cairo and Marsa Alam airports.

It bought the assets jointly with Egyptian partners Beltone Capital and Beltone Private Equity (BPE) Energy. The purchase is subject to approval by the relevant authorities, Total said in a statement. It did not give a value for the

deal. Chevron had been seeking to sell its Egyptian and Pakistani downstream assets to raise $300 million for the second-largest US oil company, sources told Reuters in May. Total already agreed in May to buy the Egyptian retail assets of Royal Dutch Shell.

Once the Shell and Chevron purchases close, the annual sales of its local subsidiary Total Egypt will exceed 3 million tonnes through 218 service stations, giving it a 14 percent share of the market, Total said. The service stations will also distribute lubricants provided by a blending plant owned jointly by Total Egypt and OilLibya. — Reuters

Libya oil output hit by shut ports TRIPOLI: Libya’s oil output is stuck at less than half of pre-war levels due to idle eastern oil ports, its oil minister said yesterday.

Oil production has fallen to 665,000 barrels per day (bpd) due to a month long disruption by armed security guards who shut down main export ports, Abdelbari Al-Arusi said. “In Libya we are precisely producing 665,000 bpd as a result of the strikes and the problems arising. We used to produce 1,550,000 bpd and when we produce now 665,000 bpd we are talking about a big difference,” he said in an interview aired by Libyan television channel Libya Al-Hurra.

The minister said the oil ports of Es Sider, Ras Lanuf and Zueitina and Marsa Al Hariga, which are all in the east where most of the country’s oil production lies, remained closed.

A spokesman for the Petroleum Facilities Guard also said on Tuesday that the situation had not changed since last week and Es Sider, Ras Lanuf and Zueitina

were still blocked. The deputy oil minister said last week that the Hariga port had been cleared of striking workers but tankers have not been able to load. The tanker Hellas Warrior was called in at the end of last week, the ship operator said, but was unable to take crude. Another tanker was also waiting, a trading source close to the matter said.

Only Marsa al Brega in the east was open. Production was mainly coming from two western and southern fields in Zawiya and Mellitah, he added. Brega loaded its first crude oil tanker since Aug. 9 over the weekend. “The oil ports are completely closed. Brega was recently opened and Zueitina and Hariga are still closed. Every port has a different reason for their closure,” the minister added.

Arusi blamed mainly non-oil workers and agitators pushing for federalism in Libya for the strikes, which he said had cost the country $2 billion in lost revenues.—Reuters

WASHINGTON: A US court’s decision to back two hedge funds demanding Argentina pay them for defaulted bonds has jolted the multtrillion dollar market for sovereign debt. On Friday the New York appeals court rejected Buenos Aires’ arguments that the funds-the country brands them “vultures”-deserve nothing because they refused to take part in a restructuring of the debt, which the country defaulted on in 2001.Instead, it ordered the Argentine government to shell out $1.47 billion to the funds, a decision that critics say could unravel the restructuring deal and send the country back into virtual bankruptcy.

Moreover, critics say the decision could upend other sovereign debt restructuring deals and make it harder for some countries to get back on their feet after falling into default.

Buenos Aires defaulted 12 years ago on nearly $100 billion worth of bonds. In two restructurings, in 2005 and 2010, most of the bond holders took a steep 70 percent “haircut” on the face value.

But New York hedge funds NML Capital and Aurelius Capital, which bought some of the defaulted debt at a steep discount, declined to join the restructuring. They sued to recover 100 percent of the bonds’ face value, plus accrued interest. Argentina still refuses to repay them, and has petitioned the US Supreme Court to review the case. A Supreme Court endorsement of the lower court would “have serious effect on the ability to negotiate necessary debt restructuring in the future,” said Mark Weisbrot of the Center for Economic and Policy Research in Washington.

When countries cannot pay their debt, they can negotiate with creditors as a group-aiming to reduce some of the value and lengthen the time for repayment, in a way that makes the government solvent and allows the creditors to recover at least some of their investment.

Such deals depend on the large majority of bondholders to agree, while holdouts are meant to get nothing. That was the case with the largest restructuring ever, the 2012 deal between Greece and holders of some 200 billion euros ($267 billion) worth of its bonds that wrote off about half of their value.

That makes it troubling if holdouts can lay claim to full payback, according to Jacob Kirkegaard, of the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

“If it turns out that a holdout creditor could end up being paid out in full, this would have very detrimental effects on the prospect for future debt restructuring,” he told AFP. “Because it means that the funds that can afford to wait and to hire enough lawyers, they will have zero incentive to agree to any debt restructuring.”

“In many cases, you would not get enough participants to join in a such an operation,” he added.

The Argentine case has sparked concern in the International Monetary Fund, often a crucial player in arranging restructurings for countries mired in unpayable debt. The debt deals are vulnerable to holdouts because the restructurings are negotiated as contracts, rather than being decided by a specialized court with authority

over all parties, as in a corporate bankruptcy case. Weisbrot says the Argentine case demonstrates the need for a formal restructuring mechanism for the global financial system. One was proposed by the IMF in 2003, but ultimately rejected.

The New York court however argued that the Argentine case was “exceptional” and hinged on the country’s “extraordinary behavior” as a “uniquely recalcitrant debtor.”

The judges insisted their ruling would have “little apparent bearing” on other cases, because of the way Argentina’s debt contracts were written, giving holdouts the right to make full repayment claims.

More recent bond restructurings make use of collective action clauses by which a majority can impose restructuring conditions on minorities, and deny holdouts any payment, the court pointed out.

Adam Lerrick, researcher at the American Enterprise Institute, agreed that the Argentine bond contract was the source of the problem.

“Argentinian bonds have a specific sentence saying basically that they cannot pay any other bond holder without paying the holdout investors.” “This issue is important for Argentina.

But from the point of view of the capital markets, this is just a non-event, just a blip,” said Lerrick. — AFP

German business confidence rises for fourth month: Ifo BERLIN: German business confidence rose for a fourth consecutive month in August, data showed yesterday, boosted by a stronger export outlook and adding to signs of a pickup in Europe’s top economy.

The Ifo economic institute’s closely watched business climate index rose to 107.5 points this month from 106.2 in July, in a move likely to provide a boost to Chancellor Angela Merkel a month before general elections. Analysts polled by Dow Jones Newswires had predicted an increase, albeit slightly lower, to 107 points.

“Companies are more satisfied with their current business situation. Their optimism regarding future business developments-although slightly cautious also grew,” the think tank’s economist Kai Carstensen said in a statement. “ The German economy moved up a gear.”

Ifo calculates its headline index on the basis of companies’ assessments of their current business and the outlook for the next six months. The figures offer further cheer to the German economy after gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by a stronger-than-expected 0.7 percent in the second quarter following zero growth in the first quarter.

Growth was driven mainly by domestic demand, with consumer spending and public expenditure both on the rise, and investment was also up on the previous quarter. The Bundesbank said in its June monthly report that German GDP would expand by 0.3 percent in 2013, while the International Monetary Fund has cut in half its forecast for German growth this year, also to 0.3 percent.

Companies’ sentiment on both expectation and the current assessment of their business situation rose in August, Ifo said.

The sub-index measuring current business increased to 112 points in August from 110.1 points last month, while the outlook

sub-index edged up to 103.3 points from 102.4 points.

With the battered eurozone now climbing out of recession, the German business climate in manufacturing rose “significantly”, reaching its highest level since April 2012, the Ifo indicator showed.

“Assessments of the current business situation were considerably better than last month. Business expectations also continued to brighten,” Carstensen said.

“Firms expect stronger impulses from export business,” he added. While the business climate index in wholesales improved, it edged downwards in retailing and fell in construction.

Berenberg bank economist Christian Schulz noted that the export outlook was “brightening” despite difficulties for emerging markets, a slowdown in China and tough Japanese competition.

“Stabilising eurozone and growing US demand, which together account for twothirds of German goods exports, should offset weaker developments elsewhere,” he said. Jennifer McKeown, an economist at Capital Economics, said the sharperthan-expected rise “adds to encouraging signs that the economy is recovering”.

But she said the fall in the construction index seemed to indicate that the sharp second-quarter rise in activity “was a temporary bounceback from bad weather” in the previous three-month period.

“And the fall in the retail index is a reminder not to put too much faith in German consumers. Nonetheless, it seems that a moderate recovery is finally underway,” she said. UniCredit economist Alexander Koch said the data indicated a bright horizon. “Looking ahead, the latest business sentiment readings confirm our view that the German economy will be able to maintain a somewhat more moderate but still robust momentum in the second half of 2013 following the exceptional rebound in the spring,” he said. — AFP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

BUSINESS

Gold hits 11-week high on Syria fears LONDON: Gold hit an 11-week high yesterday, bolstered by safe-haven buying on geopolitical tensions as the West edged towards possible military action against Syria, while strong support came from hopes of prolonged US monetary stimulus.

The United States signalled on Monday possible military moves against Syria over a chemical weapons attack in Damascus suburbs for which it said it believed President Bashar alAssad was responsible. “Geopolitical tensions in Syria are one of the factors which will be supporting gold prices in coming sessions,” Natixis analyst Nic Brown said.

“And you also have the latest data out of the United States over the past couple of sessions that was relatively weak and raised the question mark over the timing of the US Fed tapering,” he added.

Spot gold rose to its highest since June 7 at $1,412.30 an ounce earlier and was trading at $1,411.50 by 0950 GMT, up 0.5 percent. US gold futures for December delivery climbed $18.50 to $1,411.60 an ounce. The dollar fell against

safe-haven currencies but remained broadly steady, while European shares dropped as unease about the threat of a military strike against Syria prompted investors to cash in on recent strong gains.

Gold has gained more than 6 percent this month and almost 19 percent from its year low of $1,180.71 hit in late June. Recent US data on industrial production, new home sales and durable goods orders has suggested economic growth this quarter will probably not accelerate as much as economists had hoped.

Traders believe the weak data could deter the Federal Reserve from tapering its stimulus as soon as next month.

The Fed’s $85-billion-a-month bond purchases have helped drive increased liquidity towards gold and other commodities.

An early end to stimulus could hurt gold by drawing investors away from non-interest-bearing assets. “A lot of people think it is still going to happen in September but if the Fed was going to delay that, then that is clearly supportive for gold prices,” Brown said.

Data due later in the day from the United States includes the Case-Shiller house price index, consumer confidence and the Richmond Fed survey. Dealers said physical demand in Asia remained subdued due to a seasonally weak summer period and the recent jump in prices. Premiums of Shanghai gold futures to London prices have fallen to about $18 an ounce from last week’s levels above $20. India is considering asking gold traders to provide proof of payment for their jewellery exports, trade body officials said on Monday.

Imports have come to a standstill since July 22, when the Indian central bank issued a rule tying imports to exports in a bid to reduce its trade deficit.

Spot silver was little changed at $24.26 an ounce, having touched a 16-week high of $24.40 in the previous session.

Platinum rose 0.3 percent to $1,544.99 an ounce. The metal reached its highest since April 9 at $1,552.50 in earlier trade, buoyed by supply disruptions in South Africa. Palladium was unchanged at $744.39 an ounce. — Reuters

A man walks past Tiffany & Co sign in Boston. Tiffany & Co reports quarterly earnings yesterday.—AP

Tiffany Q2 profit rises, China growth helps NEW YORK: Tiffany & Co’s fiscal secondquarter net income climbed a stronger than expected 16 percent, driven by strong sales in China. The high-end jewelry company also boosted its full-year earnings forecast. Its shares rose more than 2 percent in premarket trading.

Tiffany is considered a bellwether for the luxury market. Its per formance is encouraging, given that many retailers have reported disappointing profits and lowered expectations for the rest of the year. Several upscale retailers including Saks Inc, Ralph Lauren Corp and Coach Inc, reported weak sales during the spring and early summer period. The company, known for its blue boxes, earned $106.8 million, or 83 cents per share, for the period ended July 31. A year earlier it earned $91.8 million, or 72 cents per share.

Revenue for the New York company increased 4 percent to $925.9 million from $886.6 million, helped by strong performances from its statement and fine jewelry products. Analysts polled by FactSet predicted lower earnings of 74 cents per

share on higher revenue of $941.5 million.

Shares of Tiffany gained $1.89, or 2.3 percent, to $83.56 in premarket trading about two hours ahead of the market opening.

Asia-Pacific sales climbed 20 percent, led by strong results in China. European sales rose 11 percent, buoyed by strength in the U.K . and most of continental Europe.

In the Americas, sales edged up 2 percent led by better sales at its flagship store in New York. Japan’s sales were dragged down by a weaker yen, falling 14 percent.

On a constant currenc y basis, sales climbed 7 percent on increased sales of engagement and higher-end jewelry.

Revenue at stores open at least a year rose 5 percent on growth in most regions.

This metric is a key indicator of a retailer’s health because it excludes results from stores recently opened or closed. Tiffany now foresees fiscal 2013 earnings in a range of $3.50 to $3.60 per share. Its prior guidance called for earnings between $3.43 and $3.53 per share. Wall Street expects earnings of $3.54 per share.— AP

Mongolia plans to scrap foreign investment law ULAN BATOR: Mongolia plans to scrap a controversial law designed to curb foreign ownership in what it considers to be strategic sectors, such as mining, a government official said, as the country seeks to kickstart its stalled economy.

The new measure, if passed, will replace the 2012 Strategic Entities Foreign Investment Law (SEFIL), which analysts say has been partly responsible for a slump of 43 percent in overseas investment in the first half of 2013, on an annual basis.

Sereeter Javkhlanbaatar, director of foreign investment at the economic development ministry, said the new law would seek to allay concerns about limits in sectors such as mining. “We won’t separate the market between strategic and non-strategic,” he told an audience of investors on Monday.

Sectors identified as strategic by the 2012 law include telecommunications, banking and finance, besides mining. At the moment, companies looking to buy 33 percent or more of any company deemed to belong to a “strategic” sector must secure government approval. State-owned firms require government approval for any interest in a strategic asset, and full parliamentary approval for a stake of more than 49 percent.

The new law would continue to limit state-owned entities’ efforts to acquire Mongolian assets, said Javkhlanbaatar, but would apply to all sectors, not merely strategic ones. “We won’t have approval systems for strategic sectors, but we will have for state -owned companies,” he added. Mongolia hopes to establish an approval board to review proposed acquisitions by state-owned firms, he said, along similar lines as one that already exists in

Australia.

The country also planned to create an investment agency, Invest Mongolia, to lure foreign investment, he added. SEFIL was introduced just before parliamentary elections in May 2012, as lawmakers sought to block a bid by the Aluminum Corporation of China Ltd (Chalco) to buy a majority stake in a Mongolian coal deposit, but analysts said the law triggered a slump in foreign investment.

“There’s no doubt (the law) led to a more uncertain environment for foreign investors,” said Nick Plummer, an analyst at the Economic Policy and Competitiveness Research Center in Ulan Bator.

But it was unclear if a new law could reverse the slide, he said. Investors have also been put off by a stalemate between Mongolia and Anglo-Australian miner Rio Tinto over the development of the Oyu Tolgoi copper-gold mine, the country’s biggest foreign investment project by far.

Javkhlanbaatar said the new law alone would not be enough to bring foreign investment back to levels in 2011, when Mongolia racked up world-beating economic growth of 17.3 percent. He also noted that existing licensing systems governing sectors like mining and banking could be tightened to guarantee national security, which could raise concerns among investors. Plummer said tougher licensing terms could actually increase uncertainty and extend delays, whether or not the distinction between “strategic” and “nonstrategic” was removed. “Until we see the draft legislation, we can only guess at what changes the government intends to make,” he said. Parliament will discuss the new law next week, Javkhlanbaatar said. — Reuters

Landmark Chinese copper deal with Afghanistan at risk KABUL: A consortium of Chinese investors has demanded a review of a landmark $3billion deal to produce copper in Afghanistan, the Ministry of Mines said, putting at risk one of Kabul’s greatest hopes for economic independence. It said China Metallurgical Group (MCC) and Jiangxi Copper wanted new terms that would cut their royalties to the government, release them from building a power plant and copper smelter, and postpone the laying of a railway.

“The Afghan government is trying its best ... to negotiate with the company but contract conditions are clear and previously both sides have agreed about it,” a ministry spokesman said.

An independent anti-corruption monitor, Integrity Watch Afghanistan (IWA), said the Chinese venture also wanted to delay the start of production by five years to 2019. The Chinese consortium confirmed that talks to amend the contract were underway and said the project faced “economic and security problems”. In an e-mail, it said, “The topics being talked about include the scope of the contract, the products plan, the economy of the project, security measures and conditions for construction to start.”

The copper deposit is among the world’s largest but is situated in a dangerous province and the site has often come under attack by insurgents, who have suc-

ceed in halting work on the mine by forcing workers to flee. Donors hope the largest foreign investment project in Afghan history will help wean the country off international aid, which is expected to fall short of the amount needed to pay for its security forces and sustain economic growth.

IWA said that renegotiating the deal, which was agreed in 2007, would dramatically reduce the benefit to Afghanistan and set a bad precedent for others seeking to invest in the already unpredictable country.

“The terms of the contract they want to renegotiate were the terms that made them the winners in the bidding process,” said Javed Noorani of IWA. Noorani said the Chinese investors were seeking to cut royalty payments to the government by almost half, to 10 percent, as well as delay production to 2019. The Afghan president is expected to travel to China with the minister of mines to discuss salvaging the project. The government was split between accommodating Chinese demands and cancelling the contract.

“Others for strategic reasons want it to happen ... so China remains committed to helping Afghanistan when the money dries up in this country,” Noorani continued.

Once production starts, the mine will generate a quarter of a billion dollars a year and create around 75,000 jobs, according to a “low-impact” scenario by the World Bank.—Reuters

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

BUSINESS

Toyota marks 16 years of Technology leadership in hybrid vehicles More than 5.5 million worldwide sales of Toyota hybrids KUWAIT: Toyota will bring together its past achievements and future plans for hybrid power in a Frankfurt motor show presentation devoted entirely to its industry-leading technology when the show opens on September 10. Since it introduced the original Prius saloon in Japan in 1997, Toyota has sold more than 5.5 million hybrid vehicles worldwide and continues to extend its portfolio, currently offering 23 models worldwide.

According to Nobuyuki Negishi, Chief Representative of Middle East & North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, “Toyota’s commitment to environmental leadership is reflected in our concerted efforts at developing viable hybrid technologies for everyday use.

Given the need to nurture a clean and sustainable environment driven by environmentally conscious customers and governments, we will continue to work towards developing innovative hybrid vehicles including fuel cell driven vehicles to expand our product lineup to create vehicles that are popular with consumers.”

Yaris Hybrid-R concept Frankfurt will mark the world debut of the new Yaris Hybrid-R concept, created as a showcase for possible future hybrid development ideas that can deliver greater performance and driver rewards.

Based on the three-door Yaris, HybridR features a 1.6-litre GRE (Global Race Engine) developed by Toyota Motorsport, combined with two powerful electric motors that give the car intelligent all-

wheel drive capability. Using technology like that featured in Toyota’s TS030 Hybrid race car, energy recovered under braking is stored in a super capacitor, a unit that’s particularly suitable for use in a sports car thanks to its high power density and quick

launch of a production car by 2015. Toyota considers the energy and emissions benefits make this the best technology yet to deliver the ultimate zero-emission car, with hydrogen as an ideal, ultra-clean energy source.

sales of more than 5.5 million hybrids and today has a portfolio 23 different models four times more than any other competitor - available in 80 countries and regions around the world. As of June 2013, worldwide cumulative sales of the “Prius” gaso-

2015 Toyota will have introduced a further 16 new or revised hybrid models.

TMC will continue to conduct R&D and invest in facilities for the development of hybrid and other cutting-edge technologies and achieve sustainable growth by

charge and discharge speeds. The result is a highly focused machine, designed to deliver the maximum driving pleasure, both on road and track.

16 years of Toyota hybrid technology Toyota has been researching and developing environmentally efficient transport solutions for more than 40 years, building world leadership in the design and production of full hybrid powertrain technology. It made the science a marketplace reality in 1997, when the first Prius went on sale in Japan. Since then, Toyota Motor Corporation has amassed

line-electric hybrid vehicle passed the 3million mark. The Prius was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle at the time of its launch.

Toyota calculates that its global hybrid fleet has already saved 12 billion litres of fuel and 34 million tons of CO2 emissions, compared to the same number of equivalent, conventionally powered vehicles. The story does not end here: by the end of

deploying these developed technologies across the globe. In line with this commitment, in 2012 TMC also brought hybrid technology to the race track by returning to endurance racing as a full-time entrant with a hybrid LMP1 car making history by becoming the first manufacturer to build a team entirely around a hybrid powertrain. The car had a successful first season winning three of the six races it entered.

Fuel cell technology: next steps towards the ultimate zero-emission car Toyota will show the latest status of its Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle (FCHV) technology at Frankfurt, ahead of the market

Turkish CB won’t defend lira with interest rates Fed, Syria, elections weigh on Turkish appeal

NEW YORK: People walk by JP Morgan Chase & Company headquarters in New York.

Spanish police yesterday arrested a former JP Morgan trader wanted by the United States to face criminal charges in the massive “London Whale” fraud scandal. — AFP

Wanted JPMorgan trader arrested in Spain MADRID: Spanish police yesterday arrested a former JPMorgan bank trader wanted by the United States to face criminal charges in the massive “London Whale” fraud scandal.

Officers arrested Spanish national Javier Martin-Artajo Rueda on an international warrant by the United States for alleged fraud and tax crimes, police said in a statement.

He is accused of being the senior figure in the 2012 trading scandal involving $6.2 billion (4.6 billion euros) in trading losses at the US banking giant. “The detainee is suspected of being responsible for manipulating and inflating the value of positions on his firm’s credit portfolio,” the statement said.

The suspect went before a judge at the National Court in Madrid, who granted him bail pending a ruling on extradition after Martin-Artajo did not consent to be extradited voluntarily, a judicial source said. He was released on condition that he check in with the court every two weeks and was banned from leaving Spain, said the source, who asked not to be named.

US federal prosecutors filed criminal charges on August 14 against Martin-Artajo and Frenchman Julien Grout, alleging they kept false records on trades, committed wire fraud and submitted false US securities filings.

The Securities and Exchange Commission, the US stock trading authority, also filed civil charges against the two men alleging securities fraud.

A third ex-JPMorgan banker, French national Bruno Iksil-originally identified as the “London Whale” responsible for the tradeswas cleared of criminal responsibility after cooperating with prosecutors. Martin-Artajo, 49, is a Spaniard who usually resides in London, while Grout, 35, resides in his native France.

Grout’s lawyer Edward Little said his team was “negotiating with the US to decide

how to proceed”. “The US cannot have him arrested as long as he is in France,” Little told AFP by telephone. “The only way he would return to the US is if we can reach a reasonable agreement on bail.”

According to US prosecutors, MartinArtajo was the most senior of the three employees implicated in the scandal. The Spaniard’s law firm earlier said he would be “cleared of any wrongdoing.”

The US complaint documents how the London team allegedly falsified financial records after Martin-Artajo was pressured from higher-ups about losses in early 2012.

Martin-Artajo directed underlings to calculate trades and price assets in such a way as to discount the losses, according to the complaint, which cites phone calls and emails.

Iksil is depicted in the complaints as a generally unwilling participant in the cover-up, urging Martin-Artajo to revise pricing practices to more accurately reflect the losses. At one point, Martin-Artajo allegedly quarrelled with Iksil after he reported in an email a single-day trading loss of $40 million.

As a result of the false records, JPMorgan in July 2012 understated losses from its corporate private equity division, which included the London trading operation, by $459 million.

The defendants each face a maximum sentence of 65 years in prison when all the criminal charges are combined, and a fine of at least $5 million.

The debacle led to senior bank resignations, slashed pay for JPMorgan chief executive Jamie Dimon and sparked various government probes. The case is one of several regulatory headaches still facing JPMorgan.

The bank also faces probes on its sale of mortgage-backed securities, among other issues. — AFP

ISTANBUL: Turkish Central Bank Governor Erdem Basci said yesterday he did not intend to hike interest rates to defend a sliding lira, which hit record lows on concern about the outlook for US stimulus and the conflict in neighboring Syria.

In an interview with the state-run Anadolu news agency (AA), Basci said the central bank had $40 billion in reserves which it could use to shore up the lira and would intervene defensively as needed to reduce exchange rate volatility. The lira weakened to a record low of 2.037 to the dollar as markets wondered whether the bank had the firepower necessary to defend the currency.

The main Turkish share index slid 4.7 percent to close at its lowest in a year. The 10-year benchmark bond yield spiked to 10.83 percent during Basci’s interview, which was broadcast live on Turkish financial TV stations, from 10.18 percent on Monday. It closed at 10.28 percent. “We will not be using our interest rate weapon against the exchange rate.

We are very clear on that and we have said there will not be any uncertainty about interest rates,” Basci told AA Finans.

“Since we will not be using this then we are left with the balance sheet weapon, and that is a very powerful weapon. That means we will use our foreign exchange reserves against the slide in the foreign exchange market.” His comments surprised many economists.

“Turkey’s central bank is digging itself into a deeper hole. For a country whose forex reserves barely cover its short-term external debts, this is highly imprudent policymaking,” said Nicholas Spiro of Spiro Sovereign Strategy.

Emerging markets have borne the brunt of heavy selling in recent weeks amid concern that the US Federal Reserve will soon start reducing its massive bond-buying program, which had flooded developing economies with cheap liquidity. Turkey is particularly vulnerable because it is heavily dependent on foreign inflows to finance its current account deficit, running at over 7 percent of national output.

Concern about the consequences of a possible US-led intervention in neighboring Syria and political uncertainty ahead of an election cycle beginning next year have further dampened its appeal as investors shun riskier assets.

Basci said he was not overly worried about the exchange rate, forecasting it would recover by the end of the year to around 1.92 to the dollar, and that long-term bond yields would also be back in single digits.

“Don’t expect a shock from us on the inter-

est rate side, just expect interesting manoeuvres on the forex side that will result in an appreciation of the lira,” Basci said, in characteristically cryptic comments.

“I am neither a hawk nor a dove,” he said when questioned about his policy stance. “I am not a bird.” The central bank raised its overnight lending rate, the upper end of the interest rate corridor it uses to control monetary conditions, for a second straight month last week, hiking it by 50 basis points to 7.75 percent in a surprise move to try to prevent an uncontrolled slide in the lira.

Basci said the average cost of lira funding would remain between 6.75 percent, the rate at which it funds primary dealers, and 7.75 percent until inflation drops to its year-end forecast of 6.2 percent.

“The central bank is once again demonstrating it is unwilling to raise rates much further, and that will continue to drag (the dollar/lira rate) higher,” Luis Costa, head of CEEMEA currency and debt strategy at Citi, referring to more lira weakening.

Economy Minister Zafer Caglayan, a vocal supporter of low interest rates and champion of Turkish exporters, who benefit from a weak lira, said the central bank did not need to intervene to support the currency, saying the 2 to the dollar level it breached on Tuesday was only a psychological barrier.

He also dismissed suggestions that any Turkish participation in an international coalition to intervene in Syria would have a negative impact on the economy.

But the effects of the weak lira - which has fallen 14 percent against the dollar from a peak this year of 1.7455 on Feb. 1 - are already being felt by some of Turkey’s top firms. A weak lira cut net profit at national flag carrier Turkish Airlines by almost a third in the second quarter despite a sharp rise in sales, sending its shares tumbling more than 2 percent yesterday.

The country’s largest telecoms group Turk Telekom , whose liabilities are in dollars, euros and Japanese yen, said last month its net profit fall 56 percent in the same period due to foreign exchange losses. The weakening lira and Basci’s comments helped knock the main Istanbul share index down by more than 3 percent to a year low although it later recovered somewhat to trade down 2.4 percent by 1030 GMT. “Combined with the uncertainty over a multi-party military intervention in Syria, the comments are negative for Turkey’s financial markets,” said Ibrahim Aksoy, economist at Istanbul-based Seker Securities. — Reuters

Syria adds impetus to investor flight from emerging markets LONDON: The Indian rupee and Turkish lira tumbled to new record lows yesterday as investors’ headlong flight out of emerging markets gathered pace with added impetus from uncertainty over Western military action against Syria. A number of other emerging currencies hit multi-year lows even though US Treasury 10-year yields, which such currencies tend to track, were off two-year highs. The currency losses also led to an exit from emerging equities, which fell 1.8 percent Currencies of countries with current account deficits have sold off heavily ever since the US Federal Reserve hinted at the end of May it would consider cutting back on its monetary stimulus. The selloff has since spread to more robust emerging economies.

“Today we have more of the same but with the added twist of geopolitical concerns so you have all the ingredients of a heavy risk aversion shock,” said Benoit Anne, head of emerging markets strategy at Societe Generale in London. “Add to that the uninspiring performance by EM central banks such as Turkey so we have a credibility shock as well.”

The rupee fell almost 3 percent for its biggest monthly fall in 18 years after news of a $20 billion cheap food scheme raised fears of a renewed fiscal deficit blowout for what is seen as one of the most vulnerable emerging economies.

The rupee losses fed into share markets which fell 3 percent while government 10-year bonds fell 2.5 points. Elsewhere Indonesia’s central bank called a surprise meeting for Thursday,

triggering speculation of new rate increases to defend the rupiah, plumbing new four-year lows every day.

The Turkish lira plunged 1.5 percent, feeling the heat from the situation in neighbouring Syria as well as the central bank’s reluctance to raise interest rates to levels that provides investors with adequate rewards for the risks. Losses spiralled after Governor Erdem Basci said he was prepared to use the central bank’s net reserves of $40 billion to defend the currency but said he would not use interest rates. Two-year bond yields touched January 2012 highs around 10.4 percent and shares fell 2.5 percent. Five-year credit default swaps used to insure exposure to Turkish debt, jumped 11 basis points to 14-month highs of 242 basis point, according to Markit.—Reuters

ANKARA: Turkey’s central bank governor Erdem Basci speaking during a press conference in Ankara. The Turkish lira hit a record low yesterday, but the central bank warned that it had a war chest of up to $40 billion to defend the currency amid turmoil for emerging economies. — AFP

China to hold economic reform meeting in Nov BEIJING: China’s Communist Party will hold a key meeting in November to discuss deepening reforms, the official Xinhua news agency said yesterday, as leaders look to set the country’s economic agenda for the next decade. The meeting will mark the third time China’s elite 200-member Central Committee has gathered since a leadership transition last year, though political reform is not expected to be a major talking point. Historically, such meetings, known as third plenums, have been a springboard for key economic change in China.

“The decision to hold the third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee in November was made at yesterday’s meeting of the CPC Central Committee’s political bureau,” Xinhua said.

President Xi Jinping is likely to use his first such meeting since taking the role in March to push ahead with his agenda to reform the structure of the economy. He is looking to wean it off a heavy reliance on exports, credit and investment and towards more consumer-driven growth.

The priority is likely to be financial and tax reforms but the meeting may also discuss how to loosen the grip of the household registration, or hukou, system that constrains labor mobility and how to push land reform to help quicken urbanization. Some have cautioned that the reforms could face resistance from vested interests, especially state firms.

Many economists see this as a critical period for China if it wants to avoid the so-called middle income trap, where wealth creation stagnates as market share is lost to lower-cost competitors and the attainment of high-income country status stays out of reach.

Some critics said the previous administration of President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao had delayed economic reforms and failed to deal with the fallout from China’s 4 trillion yuan ($650 billion) stimulus package in 2008. The package insulated China from the global financial crisis but left a mountain of local government debt and contributed to record house prices as the free cash went into property speculation.—Reuters

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

BUSINESS Harvard case study: A special report

Harvard Business School uncovers the secret to NBK’s success

H

arvard Business School (HBS) recently released a recent case study on NBK, the first Harvard case study of an Arab bank ever. The 31-page report, published early June, discusses the leadership style of NBK Group CEO Ibrahim Dabdoub and his team. It also examines the various challenges the bank has faced and how its culture of prudence and conservatism has proven the key to its success.

Established in 1952 by nine leading merchant families in Kuwait, NBK is the leading bank in Kuwait. By 2012, NBK remained the largest and dominant bank in Kuwait with assets of $58 billion, a market share in excess of 30 percent in all businesses, and the largest branch network in the country. NBK is the partner of choice for blue chip corporates and most foreign firms doing business in Kuwait.

Its 2011 acquisition of Boubyan Bank gives it access to the growing Islamic banking market, the only bank with both conventional and Islamic banking reach in Kuwait.

Calm in any crisis In a region where financial, political and geopolitical crises are common, NBK has weathered storm after storm thanks to its conservative culture, prudent risk management and careful stewardship.

Many at NBK acknowledged that the culture of the Bank was largely defined by its Kuwaiti merchant heritage. As one member of the Executive Committee elaborated, “If you look at the history of Kuwait, the owners of NBK are the merchant Kuwaiti families, and when I say ‘merchant,’ I mean those who were rich before oil was discovered. Even before oil came in the thirties or forties in Kuwait, they were rich because they were traders with India, hunting for pearls in the sea. And those families are still on the Board...They value money and they don’t really go and spend; they have worked hard to earn it and they

It is recognized as one of the safest, strongest and most respected banks in the Middle East. The National Bank of Kuwait is legendary for its ability to weather pretty much any economic, political or geopolitical crisis. But what is the secret to NBK’s remarkable success? How has it been able to not just survive but thrive in times of cataclysmic change where other banks have failed? are prudent by nature. That is what is in our cells, in our DNA.” NBK’s prudent aversion to unnecessary risk is a key strength and has protected it time and again. For instance, NBK was the only Kuwaiti bank to stay out of the informal Souq Al-Manakh stock market. It was the only Kuwait bank untouched by the Souq Al-Manakh crash in 1982.

When Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990, NBK shifted to operating in exile out of its London branch. In fact, NBK was the only Kuwaiti bank to continue operations throughout the Iraqi occupation honoring all obligations and remaining liquid.

When the 2008 financial crisis hit and other Kuwait banks and investment houses went bankrupt or required the Central Bank to step in, NBK remained strong. When the Madoff ponzi scheme broke in late 2008, NBK reimbursed its clients who had invested even though the bank itself was not a party to the investments.

NBK has also weathered the Arab Spring well. NBK had only recently acquired Al-Watany Bank of Egypt when the

Arab uprisings broke out in late 2010 and early 2011.

When revolution engulfed Egypt, prospects at first looked bleak. AWB experienced skyrocketing costs due to higher salary demands and reduced business activity. But remarkably, AWB’s commercial network grew, capturing new deposits and customers, mainly as “flight to safety” on account of the bank’s affiliation with NBK. Building the bank’s future NBK is consistently awarded the highest credit rating of all banks in the Middle East by the major international rating agencies Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch Ratings, as well as ranked among Global Finance’s “world’s 50 safest banks” from 2009 to 2012.

Led by a stable team of highly professional executives, with respected banker Ibrahim Dabdoub at the helm, the bank has also grown, diversified and is on the path to becoming a leading regional bank.

NBK quickly realized that given Kuwait’s small size, the bank’s future lay in regional expansion. Prior to stepping

abroad, however, NBK first needed a full suite of banking options for its clients in Kuwait. The bank moved into financing major infrastructure projects, including oil field exploration and refining capacity, desalination plants, power stations, roads and bridges, hospitals, and schools.

To service the Bank’s wealthy clients and capitalize on the surpluses generated by Kuwait’s oil wealth, NBK opened operations in major global financial centers, such as London, New York, and Singapore. With the rise of a solid middle class, NBK expanded its mandate beyond catering to the wealthy business class of Kuwait and “took advantage of consumer banking long before anybody else,” Dabdoub recalled. He continued, “When I first told my board that I wanted to lend an individual, for example, 10 times his salary, they wanted to kill me. If this individual has a good job, why can’t I lend him 10 times his salary? Now the most profitable business is lending an individual 10 times his salary.”

To support its emerging diversification and regionalization strategy, the bank reorganized over time to “break down silos” between line and support functions and also moved to a group structure. This allowed the bank to take advantage of the economic boom in the GCC that started in 2003, along with a liberalization drive sweeping across the region.

In less than five years, NBK undertook four acquisitions as it entered promising markets: 30 percent of International Bank of Qatar (2003), along with a management contract, 75 percent of Credit Bank of Iraq (2004), 98.5 percent of Al-Watany Bank of Egypt (2007), and 40 percent of Turkish Bank of Turkey (2008). It also opened five branches in Jordan, a branch in Saudi Arabia, and a branch in Dubai. These acquisitions lifted the Group’s total assets to roughly $43 billion by year-end of 2008 from $29 billion by year-end of 2007.

Yusuf A Alghanim & Sons Automotive special offer on Legendary Camaro Own it today and benefit from a KD500 gift!

S Bamboo Paper 2.0 the advanced Digital Notebook

A

lready a successful app in its first version, receiving more than five million downloads, Bamboo Paper 2.0 has evolved significantly. Originally an app focused on note taking, it now offers a broad range of writing and drawing tools, such as a watercolour brush and pencil, that enable users to create particularly individual digital notebooks.

Bamboo Paper 2.0 still remains in its unrivalled, uncluttered, clean design but offers much more versatility through three additional new notebook styles that differ in paper types and covers. This way, different demands and use cases find their specific expressions. A ‘Writer’ notebook, for instance, may be used for note-taking or creative writing, whereas an ‘Artist’ notebook could be used for more elaborate

sketching and drawing.

The app now features an improved, near perfect palm-rejection, eliminating almost all accidental marks while sketching or drawing. Combined with the Intuos Creative Stylus, the new digital stylus from Wacom, Bamboo Paper 2.0 provides an even more natural and intuitive drawing experience. The Creative Stylus offers 2,048 levels of pressure sensitivity and comes close to a natural pen-on-paper feeling.

The app in its basic version can be downloaded for free. Additional styles and tools are offered as in-app purchases at 0.89 Euro; new creative pack with a variation of paper styles and brushes or pens can be bought at 3.59 Euro. When purchasing a Creative Pack, the ‘Artist’ notebook comes as a free gift.

Tech Mahindra first Indian IT firm to achieve TMMi Level 5 Certification DUBAI: Tech Mahindra Ltd, a specialist provider of connected solutions to the connected world and enabling future digital enterprises, has announced that its Global Test Factory has achieved TMMi Level 5 capability. This makes Tech Mahindra the first Indian Information Technology company in the world to achieve this prestigious certification, with zero exceptions. This certification, by TMMi Foundation, acknowledges the highest level of process maturity that is being practiced within the Test Factory.

Tech Mahindra’s Test Factory drives consistency, standardization and agnostic acceptance of testing units or work packages thus enhancing quality, test velocity and low running costs. It provides a centralized testing framework with established KPIs, governance model, enterprise wide metrics and uniform testing process. The “Test Factory” embeds the fundamentals of continuous improvement, best practices and innovation, leveraging economies of scale and maximizing resource utilization

Martin Adcock - Managing Director, Experimentus said “This is an outstanding achievement and we are delighted to have played a part in their success. This demonstrates to their clients and the industry, that the Tech Mahindra Global Test Factory has been independently certified as achieving the highest standards against the TMMi model. This certainly sets the standard not only for their peers, but for the industry to compare capabilities and strive to achieve these benefits.” Dr Richard Sykes - Chair, TMMi Foundation said “On behalf of the TMMi Foundation I am delighted to be able to celebrate its achievement by one of the leaders of our industry, Tech Mahindra, in establishing itself as a TMMi level 5 company, a beacon to us all”.

T S Krishnakumar, Head of Global Test Factory, Tech Mahindra said “This certification demonstrates our commitment to being world class in our testing process. The consistent use of these mature test practices, procedures and tools will add significant value to our clients.”

taying true to its tradition, Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive distributor of Chevrolet vehicles in Kuwait, introduces exceptional offers at the best value and service as well as surpassing customers’ expectations with an exclusive promotion on Camaro vehicles that comes with an impassable price tag that starts at KD 9,999 only during the month of August. The Camaro also comes with a remarkable pack of features that includes a gift worth KD500 that can be utilized to purchase an accessories package or towards trade in assistance.

If you are seeking a durable drive that is equipped with powerful performance, the Camaro is the dream sports car that is made for someone like you. Apart from having a long and rich history, Camaro has been the ultimate drive that won the hearts of thrill-seeking youth ever since it was introduced.

Available in three models, the SS, LT and ZL1, the 2013 Camaro is equipped with three engines, a 6.2-liter engine that generates 426 hp, another model is equipped with a V6, 3.6-liter engine with an impressive 323 hp. The latest model introduced is The Camaro ZL1 which is a

supercar, it generates a monstrous 580horsepower, the Camaro ZL1 is the fastest Camaro to ever be built. Once you get over the rush of the all-aluminum 6.2L supercharged V8 engine and its 580 horsepower and 556 lb.-ft. of torque, you will realize that this Camaro goes beyond raw power. The Camaro’s performance and precision continues with Magnetic Ride Control, world-class braking and 4-wheel independent suspension. The Camaro ZL1 is the kind of vehicle that engineers dream of designing and speed lovers crave to drive.

Yusuf A Alghanim & Sons Automotive commits itself to its promise by offering customers an unparalleled experience specifically during the purchase and after-sales stages. Yusuf A Alghanim & Sons Automotive is also proud to offer a large selection of vehicles and services through its service center that includes a variety of maintenance services all of which operate using the latest technological advances in the market under the dedicated supervision and skillful hands of experienced technical professionals. Visit any of our four showrooms today to experience the marvelous legend from Chevrolet.

ASAR advises Global on $1.7bn debt restructuring plan KUWAIT: ASAR - Al Ruwayeh & Partners (ASAR), Kuwait’s leading and most prominent corporate law firm, and one of the region’s top tier firms announced that it has acted as legal advisor to Global Investment House in its $1.7 billion debt restructuring plan, which resulted in bringing a comprehensive solution to the company’s capital structure.

The restructuring transaction resulted in a separation of Global’s core-fee businesses from its non-core principal investments and a transfer of its substantially entire debt obligations, allowing Global to become a debt-free company. The majority of non-core principal investment and real estate assets have been transferred to “Asset SPE(s)” specifically created for this purpose. The Asset SPE, namely NAC Ventures SPC has assumed $1.28 billion of the company’s debt obligations and all the accrued interest/profit.

Moreover, Global issued 1.22 billion new shares at par value of KD 0.100 per share to another special purpose entity, namely NCH Ventures SPC (NCH) giving it a 70 percent stake in Global. Total new issued capital amounted to KD122.24 million ($428.8 million), bringing the company’s total paid up capital to KD174.620 million ($612.6 million).

NCH has assumed $428.8 million of the company’s debt obligations. Existing shareholders of the company now have been diluted to 30 percent. The financial impact of this transaction will be reflected during the company’s third quarter financial results.

Rob Little, partner at ASAR said: “We are proud to have advised Global Investment House in one of the most complex and innovative restructurings in the middle east region.. Global Investment House, as a business has gone through significant changes, and this result represents a fantastic achievement for all parties. We look forward to supporting and advising the company as it enters into the next stages of its development.”

“We have advised Global Investment House on facilitating its successful restructuring plan along with discussions with the company’s financiers. Our role included advising on strategy and structuring, conducting due diligence, drafting and reviewing transaction documents, issuing legal opinions and providing critical Kuwaiti law advice relating to the restructuring, and local compliance matters.

We are extremely pleased with the outcome of the restructuring. ASAR has been at the forefront in Kuwait in providing a full range of

restructuring services, which include corporate and financial restructuring, to some of Kuwait’s leading companies. In terms of restructurings our firm is well experienced in advising both creditors and debtors alike. We typically advise our clients with legal risk analysis, structuring options, we assist with negotiations and discussions as well as prepare transaction documents. ,” added Rob Little.

With dedicated offices in Kuwait and Bahrain, coupled with its associated offices and relationships, ASAR provides clients across an extensive range of industry sectors with comprehensive legal advice and support for their business activities in Kuwait, across the GCC, and beyond.

ASAR has been consistently rated as the leading corporate and commercial law firm in Kuwait by many of the world’s leading and reputable legal guides such as the Chambers Global Guide, International Financial Law Review, and the Legal 500. In 2012, ASAR was named as the “Best Law Firm in Kuwait 2012” by the International Financial Law Review (IFLR), the market-leading guide for financial law firms worldwide. The firm also won the “Best Equity Deal in the Middle East” award by IFLR during the same year.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

technology

Assange dons wig in Internet parody CANBERRA: In a departure from his public image as the ever-earnest fugitive, WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has donned a long blond wig to star in a video parody of an Australian singing legend filmed in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London. Lip syncing John Farnham’s 1986 hit “You’re the Voice,” Assange made a pitch to Australian voters to back his troubled WikiLeaks Party in national elections Sept 7. “We can write what we want to write; we gotta make things leak so we can get much bolder,” the parody version of the song goes.

The 42-year-old Australian is the newly formed party’s star candidate and is running for a Senate seat in the state of Victoria despite being confined to the embassy in London for more than a year. The footage with Assange wearing the wig to look like Farnham was released online Monday by Australian political satire website Juice Rap News. Juice Rap News co-creator Giordano Nanni said Assange thought for hours

before agreeing to appear in the cameo role.

“We were really impressed- and a little surprised - that Julian agreed to the Farnham idea,” Nanni said in a statement. Assange last week took responsibility for problems in his political party, saying he had over delegated to his team while he was concentrating on the cases of Army Pvt Chelsea Manning and of US National Security Agency leaker Edward Snowden.

Manning, who was previously known as Bradley Manning, was sentenced to 35 years in prison for giving more than 700,000 classified military and diplomatic documents, plus battlefield footage, to WikiLeaks. Snowden was granted asylum in Russia in August against the wishes of the United States. The party’s second Senate candidate in Victoria after Assange, Leslie Cannold, and several party officials quit last week, saying the party was not living up to it democratic principles. Cannold said yesterday that she had been told by electoral authorities

that it was too late for her to withdraw from the race. Now, she said if she wins, she would sit as an independent senator. Cannold, a renowned ethicist, had been regarded as a likely replacement for Assange if he were elected but cannot travel to Australia to take up his Senate seat by July next year. WikiLeaks Senate candidate for New South Wales state, Kellie Tranter, said Tuesday that “all is well” within the party despite the resignations of Cannold and four of the party’s 11 National Council members.

Tranter, a lawyer and human rights activist, said Assange would feature in more WikiLeaks Party campaign events. Assange has been campaigning by Skype from a room in the embassy, where he was granted asylum in June 2012 to avoid extradition to Sweden to face sex crime allegations. Assange argues his extradition to Sweden is merely a first step in efforts to move him to the United States, where he has infuriated officials by publishing secret documents. — AP

SYDNEY: This screen grab shows WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange (right) taking part in a musical spoof on his Australian political party for cult web series Rap News. — AFP

US tech zone feels pain from PRISM ‘Protectionist’ measures could affect cloud-computing PASADENA: Plastic items made by Diego Porqueras using a Bukobot 3-D printer manufactured by Deezmaker are featured in his newly opened Deezmaker store in a strip mall in Pasadena, California. — MCT

3-D printers begin to make impression PASADENA: Diego Porqueras’ Deezmaker store in Pasadena, Calif, is a geeky version of Santa’s workshop, brimming with action figures, chess pieces and jewelry. But instead of relying on elves, Porqueras has built his own one-man factory using 3-D printers capable of churning out plastic objects within a few hours. He sells the printers, which go for as little as $650, at the shop, which opened in September in a strip mall. The 37year-old entrepreneur is part of an emerging industry for affordable 3-D printers. The technology has long been used in the aerospace and automotive industries, among others, to create prototypes, but has slowly crept into the consumer market with simplified printers that can be had for a few hundred or thousand dollars.

“You can make so many things with them,” Porqueras said. “People who have businesses buy them for making prototypes. Parents buy them to make toys for their kids. Hobbyists buy them because they like to tinker.”

3-D enthusiasts imagine a day when these printers are as ubiquitous as phones and people print out many household goods instead of stopping at a store. Small-business owners are already switching to these printers from more expensive industrial machines. Prices are expected to drop even further after key patents on 3-D printing technology expire next year.

Usually about the size of a microwave, these machines “print” three-dimensional objects by melting plastic and depositing the material layer by tiny layer based on a threedimensional computer-generated design of a necklace, say, or a fork.

More advanced - and expensive printers can use materials such as metal and chocolate. For those who are less tech-savvy, there are new smartphone applications that streamline the process of crafting or altering a design.

Online markets have also popped up in which shoppers can customize and order 3-D-printed clothing, toys, gadget accessories and other products.

Industry experts say 3-D printing could revolutionize traditional manufacturing, much as the Internet upended the music industry, and fundamentally alter how consumers shop and how much they pay. Some tech companies are already foreseeing a day when every home contains a 3-D printer churning out custom furniture and clothes, or a Kinko’sesque store in every neighborhood where items can be manufactured on demand via printers.

It’s also raised concerns among law enforcement professionals, who worry that criminals will be able to print untraceable guns and other weapons at home. “The billion-dollar question is, how big will this become and when?” said Terry Wohlers, president of consulting firm Wohlers Associates, which tracks the industry.

“You see companies already making fashion garments and jewelry through printing. And we have seen demonstrations of 3-D printing food and living tissue.”

Wohlers said that by 2021, the US market is estimated to hit $10.8 billion, up from $2.2 billion last year and $$1.18 billion in 2008. The industry has been growing, on average, more than 25 percent a year for the past decade. The consumer side, which is in its nascent stages, is especially ripe for growth, Wohlers said. Tech companies are already salivating at the

opportunities.

In June, 3-D veteran Stratasys Ltd., which for decades has made ultrapricey printers for companies such as Boeing Co and General Motors Co, announced plans to buy MakerBot, which specializes in affordable desktop printers. Rival 3D Systems Inc. launched two consumer-oriented models this year, the Cube ($1,299) and the CubeX ($2,499 and up).

3D Systems’ chief technology officer, Chuck Hull, is widely credited with pioneering 3-D printing about three decades ago. He leads a research lab in Valencia, Calif., where scientists such as engineer Scott Turner experiment with new materials in the chemistry lab and tinker on machine prototypes. Turner said that health care is one of the biggest areas for 3-D printing; already, companies are testing living cells with a view toward making organs and other human parts such as ears. In March, a man in the US had 75 percent of his skull replaced with a 3D printed implant.

Another early adopter is the education sector: With a 3-D printer, students can make and play with models of cells rather than just study them in textbooks, or make custom robots in physics class. The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena already owns seven 3-D printers and plans to order more. The machines give students the luxury of repeatedly tweaking their designs for products as varied as car fenders and kitchenware, said David Cawley, director of the school’s rapid prototyping and model shop.

“If you are making a design and you have to create it by carving it out of wood, the amount of time to create a model would be prohibitive,” Cawley said. “But 3-D printing allows them to refine the design because it’s pretty fast. You send the file the night before, and the day after that a physical object will be on the shelf.”

Small-business owners have already taken to the printers. John Hariot of Los Angeles, for one, is using a printer bought from Deezmaker to create prototypes, such as knobs for drawers, for his new cabinet-making company. He said the 3-D printer is a much cheaper option compared with the pricey rapid-prototyping machines he once had to use. “It’s much easier to work with, and there’s less waste,” he said. For consumers who aren’t tinkerers or designers, industry experts say, a potentially bigger market could lie in on-demand services. Think of it as Amazon.com for custom orders, only with no warehouses required because a purse or belt is only made after it’s ordered.

Shoppers can already go on sites such as Shapeways or Cubify, run by 3D Systems, and either find a designer for a custom design or tweak an available product. More than 10,000 shops have been set up by designers on Shapeways, which manufactures and ships a product after an order comes in, said company spokeswoman Elisa Richardson. Bestselling items include iPhone accessories, jewelry, home decor and wedding cake toppers - grooms and brides-to-be send in photos of themselves and receive toppers with their faces printed on them. Kimberly Orvitz, a fashion designer who recently launched a 3-D printed jewelry line, said the technology saves money: There’s no requirement to order products in bulk from a factory and no storage costs.

Shoppers can also “customize by selecting colors and materials,” she said.—MCT

WASHINGTON: Revelations about vast US data collection programs are starting to hit American tech companies, which are ramping up pressure for increased transparency to try to mitigate the damage. An industry group, the Cloud Security Alliance said last month that 10 percent of its non-US members have cancelled a contract with a US-based cloud provider, and 56 percent said they were less likely to use an American company.

A separate report this month by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, or ITIF, a Washington think tank, said US cloud providers stand to lose $22 billion to $35 billion over the next three years due to revelations about the so-called PRISM program. Daniel Castro, author of the report, says a loss of trust in US tech firms could lead to “protectionist” measures that hurt the fast-growing cloud sector.

“The risk is that a country like Germany will say you have to be a German company to provide data services in Germany,” Castro told AFP. “I don’t think that helps anyone. We do benefit from free trade and the robust competitiveness in the tech industry.” The report notes that the United States dominates the cloud computing market both domestically and abroad, and that US

firms could lose between 10 and 20 percent of the foreign market in the next few years.

Tech companies, especially firms in cloud computing, have been in a frenzy since details leaked in June about surveillance efforts led by the secretive National Security Agency, including PRISM, believed to scoop up massive amounts of data as part of efforts to thwart terrorism. Castro said in his report “the disclosures of the NSA’s electronic surveillance may fundamentally alter the market dynamics.”

The news “will likely have an immediate and lasting impact on the competitiveness of the US cloud computing industry if foreign customers decide the risks of storing data with a US company outweigh the benefits,” he wrote. Much concern in being expressed in Europe. Estonian President Toomas Hendrik last month urged the EU to develop its own cloud industry, noting that 95 percent of the services come from US firms.

“Recent months have proven once again that it’s very important for Europe to have its own data clouds that operate strictly under European legislation,” he said. Some analysts say losses could be even greater than the ITIF predicts, if the fallout affects consumerbased services like email and search. And Forrester Research analyst James Staten argued that, in addition

to the loss of foreign customers, US customers may look overseas for cloud services, and the rest of the tech sector could also see an impact.

“Add it all up and you have a net loss for the service provider space of about $180 billion by 2016, which would be roughly a 25 percent decline in the overall IT services market,” Staten said. The tech sector has been active on several fronts, filing court cases and making public pleas to the US administration for more transparency, in the hope that fuller disclosure will ease fears about how data is shared. Six large high-tech lobby groups sent a letter to President Barack Obama this month asking for such steps, saying more transparency “can assist in reestablishing trust, both domestically and globally.”

Ross Schulman of Computer & Communi-cations Industry Association, one of the tech associations, said “the lack of information is compounding the trust problem.” Schulman said it’s not clear if the volume of data collected by the government is more or less than people believe. “If it’s less, that could help trust,” he said. “If it’s more, people could have an informed discussion of surveillance practices.” But in the current situation, he said, “it’s difficult to go to customers and say the cloud is the best place for your data.” — AFP

Japan’s new rocket fails to lift off TOKYO: Japan’s first new rocket in 12 years failed to lift off yesterday, dealing a potential blow to hopes that Japan may be able to take a larger share of the growing, multibillion dollar satellite launch industry. It was the second setback for the Epsilon rocket this month. An earlier launch was postponed because of a computer glitch. No word was immediately available on the cause of the problem yesterday or when the launch might be tried again.

The countdown at Japan’s Uchinoura launch centre was broadcast live over the Internet, with commentary in English as well as Japanese. But nothing happened at the end of the countdown. JAXA, Japan’s space agency, later said the launch was halted with 19 seconds to go.

Japanese media said an “irregularity” had been detected.

A three-stage rocket, the Epsilon - named for the fifth letter of the Greek alphabet - is 24.4 metres (80 feet) high, about half the size of Japan’s workhorse H2A rocket. It weighs 91 tonnes and has been touted as a new, lowcost alternative. The rocket was scheduled to carry a telescope into space for observation of the solar system.Analysts said it was

not immediately clear how much of an impact the failure would have on Japan’s ambitions to cash in on the international satellite launch industry. “This was the first flight and it was already postponed once and now will be postponed again,” said Yukihiro Kumagai, an analyst at Jefferies & Co securities in Tokyo.

“Inevitably, this will raise some questions, but overall it is unlikely to have much influence,” he added, noting that the Epsilon is not scheduled for another flight until 2015. The rocket’s smaller size and a computer system that allows it to perform its own system checks means it can be assembled quickly, which is expected to cut both personnel and equipment costs. Launch control can be carried out using conventional desktop computers, greatly reducing costs and making the launches more mobile since they could take place at more sites. U.S. companies had a monopoly on the commercial launch business 30 years ago, but its hold has steadily declined, with most of the business going to the France-based Arianespace, a public-private European partnership that in 2012 reported revenue of 1.3 billion euros.—Reuters

KAGOSHIMA: Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (Jaxa) new solid fuel rocket Epsilon stands on a launching pad at Jaxa’s Uchinoura Space Center at Kimotsuki town in Kagoshima prefecture, Japan’s southern island of Kyushu yesterday. — AFP

SHANGHAI: Tracy Teng, a 26-year-old public relations specialist who lives in Shanghai, peruses a Chinese social media platform on her smartphone. — MCT

Despite strict censorship in China, social media thrives SHANGHAI: On Nanjing Road, the home of flagship stores like Apple and Coach, it’s hard to miss the giant Nike billboard that covers the facade of an entire building. A familiar Nike swoosh, “Air Max,” and then “Air,” are prefaced and followed by # symbols. To social media users who now comprise almost 300 million Chinese, this billboard serves as a prompt to search #Air# in Sina Weibo, which will return any results mentioning the Nike Air product.

In many ways, the prominence of #Air# in an advertisement on Shanghai’s busiest shopping street mirrors the prominence of social media in Chinese culture. China already has far more Internet users than any other country, with 564 million of its citizens hooked up to the web. Despite heavy Internet censorship, almost 300 million are using social networks and microblogs to stay in touch with one another, share information and participate in e-commerce. Microblogs, which translates to “weibo” in Chinese, are sites where users can publish short posts that are limited by a certain number of characters, typically 140 or less. These microblogging platforms are distinct from social networks, like Ren Ren, which impose no limits on the number of available characters in a post. “Nowadays, it seems like people can’t live without Weibo,” said Fu Yinfang, a 58-yearold Shanghai resident.

Weibo, a privately owned, uniquely Chinese site that has flourished in the face of government bans on access to Western sites like Twitter and Facebook, is still subject to government censorship. “We have this censorship review system,” said Tracy Teng, a 26-year-old public relations specialist in Shanghai. “If you post something sensitive, it’ll be deleted and prevented from being reposted.”

In January, the Sina Weibo account @Geniune - Yu - Yang - believed to be the account of a Sina Weibo manager - publicly disclosed details about the censorship process at Sina Weibo. As explained in this post, the policy of the Sina Weibo managers is to remove certain flagged comments, with a specific warning that the only alternative to deleting a comment “is that your account will be banned.”

“People who air opinions on social networking sites are very displeased if the opinion is deleted,” said Wang Shaodi, a 38-year-old English teacher at Shanghai International Studies University. “One of my students said some words about the party and had them deleted, and he was very, very displeased.”

As Chinese students move to work or study in major cities in China or around the world, their parents are turning to microblogs and social networks as a modern way to connect with their children. “Social media can facilitate older people connecting with their children who may be studying or working far away,” said Baohua Zhou, a professor at Fudan University in Shanghai who studies media’s impact on political institutions. “It can increasingly help parents still living in rural areas to be able to connect with their children in urban areas.”

Yinfang Fu, 58, the mother of a graduate from Fudan University who moved to Singapore to study journalism, uses social media to connect with her daughter. “In China, if you want to call someone abroad, you have to open an international account, and that’s not cheap,” Fu said. Fu’s eyesight is poor, so she turned to Skype in order to keep in touch with her daughter. But that wasn’t her first choice.

“For us common people, the site QQ is very popular, especially among people whose kids have moved far away,” Fu said. “A lot of my friends use QQ to contact daughters or sons who have gone to study or work abroad.”

Beyond a means of keeping in touch, microblogs and social networks in China are used to share ideas. “These are platforms where we can get diverse information, discuss things, learn from experts in other fields, and also maintain friendships,” Zhou said.

Social media in China also appears poised to capture the vast potential of advertising in a country that has established itself as an economic superpower with a rapidly expanding class of consumers. Teng, the Shanghai public relations specialist, focuses on social media marketing at Citigate Dewe Rogerson, an international financial communications consultancy in China. —MCT

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

H E A LT H & S C I E N C E

Program may help black women avoid weight gain NEW YORK: A program including self-monitoring, gym access and occasional counseling calls helped black women maintain their weight in a new study. Black women who are overweight or slightly obese are known to have a lower risk of weight-related health problems than white women at the same weight. Research suggests they are typically also more satisfied with their bodies and seem to care less than white women about shedding extra pounds, Gary Bennett, head of the Duke Obesity Prevention Program in Durham, North Carolina, and his colleagues said.

But, “If black women continue to gain weight year and after year, and they almost invariably do ... they go from that lower level of obesity, where health risks are relatively low, to that higher level of obesity,” Bennett, who led the new study, told Reuters Health. He said focusing on weight maintenance could be a better strategy for women who are just a bit heavy and aren’t interested in losing weight or who have tried without success.

To test that theory, Bennett and his colleagues recruited 194 overweight and obese black women from community health centers for their study, which they specifically avoided calling a weight-loss trial. The women were between 25 and 44 years old with an average weight of 178 pounds, and almost three-quarters of them had an annual income below $30,000.

Half of the women were randomly assigned to go through the year-long program, which included self-monitoring through an automated calling system, monthly counseling calls, feedback on healthy diet goals and a membership to the YMCA. The other half received their usual care.

The idea of the diet goals - which included limiting sugary drinks or avoiding fast

food, for example - was to have women consume no more than 200 fewer calories than they burned each day. Of the original participants, 177 finished the study. At the one-year mark, women in the weight gain prevention program had lost an average of about two pounds; those in the comparison group had gained about one pound.

Those differences held for another six months after the program ended.

Additionally, 62 percent of program participants were at or below their original weight at one year, compared to 45 percent of those who were assigned to receive usual care, the researchers reported Monday in JAMA Internal Medicine. Bennett and his colleagues did not find any differences in waist circumference, blood pressure or cholesterol between women who did and didn’t go through the weight gain prevention program, however.

In a commentary published with the study, Dr Regina Benjamin - until recently the US Surgeon General - and colleagues called the findings “promising.” But, they wrote, “It may be that greater weight losses than those reported ... are required to achieve improvements in cardiovascular disease risk factors, and weight maintenance may need to be sustained longer to achieve such health benefits.”

Bennett said that because the study program was coordinated through primary care offices and largely computerized, it was less expensive than a weight-loss intervention and should be feasible in a range of communities.

“This is a very easy, simple intervention for us to disseminate very widely,” he said.

For heavy people who can’t or don’t want to lose weight, “maintaining and not gaining weight should be the absolute clinical priority,” he said. “There’s no reason for a physician not to do this.”—Reuters

Conjoined twin girls separated in China BEIJING: Conjoined twin baby girls have been released from a hospital in China almost three weeks after they were separated in a marathon operation, state media reported yesterday. It took a team of 20 medical workers nearly 10 hours to separate the girls, who were joined at their livers, the official Xinhua news agency reported, citing doctors at a hospital in the southern region of Guangxi.

One of the girls took their shared navel while the other may have surgery later to give her a belly button, according to a sep-

arate report by the government-run news portal gxnews.com.cn.

“The operation resulted in low blood loss and the two girls are in stable condition,” said Yang Tiquan, chief pediatric surgeon of the hospital in Nanning, according to Xinhua. The twins were born on June 14 in a small hospital in Guiping county, it added. “I felt really helpless when the doctor told me they were conjoined,” the girls’ father Ying Yigui said, according to gxnews.

Conjoined twins are rare and they have a low survival rate.—AFP

Very early preemies face neurodevelopmental risks NEW YORK: Babies who are born at 25 weeks’ gestation or earlier and survive early life have a “substantial likelihood” of having a very low IQ or other neurodevelopmental problems in childhood, researchers said today. In a review of nine past studies, they found between 24 and 43 percent of extremely premature infants went on to have moderate or severe impairment, depending on just how early the babies were born.

Dr Henry Lee, from the Division of Neonatal & Developmental Medicine at Stanford University and Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in California, said it’s a “very difficult circumstance for the family” when a baby is born between 22 and 25 weeks. Normal gestation is 37 to 42 weeks.

Twenty-two weeks is considered the earliest a baby can be born and still have a chance of surviving. But the odds can be so low, and the risks so high, that some hospitals might not even offer aggressive care to preemies delivered at 22 to 23 weeks, said Lee, who wasn’t involved in the new research.

“First of all, they’re at high risk of not even surviving, even when everything is done to help them,” he told Reuters Health. “Even when they do survive, they have high rates of disability.” By 25 weeks in the womb, a baby’s chances of surviving and going on to lead a normal life are thought to be significantly better. Lee said the new data could be used to help counsel families of extremely premature infants. “It’s hopefully an informed decision that the family makes in terms of how they’re going to proceed, whether to try to provide very aggressive, intensive care to these infants or potentially to provide palliative and comfort care,” he said. “The hard part too is there is still uncertainty. Even though there is this risk, there are some infants at each of these gestational ages that will survive and not have disability.”

For their analysis, researchers led by Dr Gregory Moore from The Ottawa Hospital in Ontario, Canada, pooled the results of nine studies that assessed kids born between 22 and 25 weeks’ gestation when they were four to eight years old. Most of the studies were conducted in Europe and together they included close to 900 children.

Moderately or severely impaired children were those scoring in the lowest 2 to 3 percent on IQ tests, children with cerebral palsy and those who were fully or mostly deaf or blind. Studies varied widely in the frequency of impairment they reported, likely based in part on different practices in different regions, the researchers said.

They found that across the board, children were at risk of neurodevelopmental problems - although those risks declined for every extra week in the womb. Among babies born at 22 weeks, 43 percent were impaired. That compared to 40 percent of those born at 23 weeks, 28 percent born at 24 weeks and 24 percent born at 25 weeks’ gestation, the study team reported Monday in JAMA Pediatrics.

About 4 to 5 percent of full-term babies go on to have some type of developmental problem, Moore said, but that includes children with milder impairment as well.

“Although substantial numbers of extremely preterm infants go on to develop moderate to severe (neurodevelopmental impairment), the results are not completely bleak in that over half of the children studied did not go on to develop moderate to severe impairment,” Dr Kimberly Noble, a pediatrician who studies child brain development at Columbia University in New York, said.

Noble, who wasn’t involved in the new research, told Reuters Health in an email that it’s unclear whether rates of impairment would be similar for U.S. babies born very early. Moore, also from The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario, said the findings were limited by the small number of children born at the earliest gestations included in the studies.

“We don’t want these (data) to make a physician automatically say, ‘There’s no hope’ or, ‘There’s no chance,’” he told Reuters Health.

But, he added, “Many parents do think of long-term impairment as a major concern for them, and some parents think of it as a bigger concern than death, for example. For some parents knowing this data and knowing the limitations of it and speaking with a caring neonatologist about it, we would hope that that would help them in their decision making.”—Reuters

GOBABIS: (Left) Anatolian Shepherd dog Bonzo leads a herd of goats on Retha Joubert’s farm near Gobabis, east of the capital Windhoek. (Right) Farm worker Theo Awochab walks with a herd of goats on Retha Joubert’s farm.—AFP photos

Part of the herd, dogs ease Namibia’s cheetah-farmer conflicts GOBABIS: Winding through the parched Namibian farmland, Bonzo, an Anatolian shepherd dog, has a singular focus: protecting his herd of goats from lurking predators. He pads along, sniffing the air and marking the scrubby landscape, just like a bodyguard ready to ward off any threat to his charges, which he considers family. “They’re not pets. They’re not allowed to be pets,” said Bonzo’s owner farmer Retha Joubert.

The breed descends from ancient livestock dogs used thousands of years ago in what is now central Turkey. And they not only save sheep and goats, but have handed a lifeline to Namibia’s decimated cheetah numbers by reducing conflicts between farmers and predators. “The dogs are protecting the flock in such a way that the farmers don’t have to kill predators,” said Laurie Marker of the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) which breeds the dogs near northern city Otjiwarongo. “It’s a non-lethal predator control method so it is green, it’s happy, it’s win-win.” The concept is simple.

The dogs are placed with a flock when a few weeks old to bond with the livestock. They live permanently with the animals, loyally heading out with them every day to deter hunters, and bedding down with them at night.

Marker’s centre started breeding the livestock dogs to promote cheetah-friendly farming after some 10,000 big cats-the current total worldwide population-were killed or moved off farms in the 1980s. Up to 1,000 cheetahs were being killed a year, mostly by farmers who saw them as livestock killers. But the use of dogs has slashed losses for

sheep and goat farmers and led to less retaliation against the vulnerable cheetah.

‘Fight to the finish’ “We see about 80 to 100 percent decrease of livestock loss from any predator when the farmers have the dogs,” said Marker. In the last 19 years, around 450 dogs have been placed with farmers and more than 3,000 farmers trained. There is now a two-year waiting list for the dogs-either stately Anatolian shepherds or Kangals-and the program has expanded to other countries with predators.

For Joubert, staying up late at night worrying about her sheep and goats coming home is a thing of the past.

Her farm near Gobabis, east of the capital Windhoek, lost 60 animals in 2008. But the arrival of Bonzo, her first Anatolian, as a puppy five years ago has slashed losses to just one animal last year.

Joubert is now training four-month-old Kangal !Nussie-whose name starts with the exclamation point typical of Namibia’s Nama people-to follow in Bonzo’s footsteps. The fluffy-coated pup is learning the ropes by going out with a flock every day on a leash with a human herder and beds down in the animal enclosure at night. She gets half an hour in the evening to play in the yard.

“She must associate herself with the goats, she must be a goat, she’s part of a group, that’s the main thing I think to make them to protect the animals,” said Joubert, who is deeply proud of her dogs. The dogs’ presence and intimidating bark is usually enough to deter predators, who would

rather opt for prey that does not have a guardian.

But they will attack if a hunter does not back off.

Bonzo for example, has killed jackals, who attack in packs and a young, weak cheetah. “If indeed they do come in, the dog could and would fight to the finish,” said Marker. Altercations between the dogs and cheetahs, though, are rare and those who target livestock are usually desperate, such as being wounded. But working in Namibia’s tough landscape takes it toll. Bonzo has been bitten by snakes, stung by a scorpion, attacked by baboons and now has tongue cancer from exposure to the relentless sun. Ironically, despite cheetahs being seen as livestock killers, analysis of their droppings has shown only five percent had preyed on farm animals.

“They do occasionally take livestock,” said Gail Potgieter, a human-wildlife conflict specialist at the Namibia Nature Foundation. “But the perception that any cheetah is going to start killing livestock as its main diet is very wrong.” Cheetah numbers hit a low of 2,500 in 1986. But the population has now potentially reached nearly 4,000 — the biggest wild cheetah population in the world.

Cheetahs still face threats on game ranches, where they eat valuable animals, and on cattle farms where the dogs are not suited. But for small stock farmers, they have proven their worth. “For the type of livestock farming that’s going on in Namibia, it’s definitely one of the most promising solutions that they have,” said Potgieter, who used to manage the CCF’s dog program. In Gobabis, Joubert, needs no convincing. “I will always have dogs here,” she said.—AFP

Many medicines safe during breastfeeding NEW YORK: Many medications can be used safely by women who are breastfeeding and the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh most harms related to babies’ exposure, a panel of pediatricians said yesterday. In a clinical report, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Drugs said mothers may be “inappropriately advised” to stop breastfeeding or to stop taking their medications, for fear the drugs will be passed through breast milk and harm infants. “Sometimes people are told that, because physicians may be worried about the risks the drug may pose ... and aren’t necessarily thinking about the potential benefit of breastfeeding,” Dr Hari Cheryl Sachs, the lead author on the report, said. That benefit includes a lower risk of ear infections, asthma and sudden infant death syndrome, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.

Sachs said properties of the drug itself, whether it’s being used on a long- or short-term basis and the age and health of the infant all affect how safe it is to use medication while breastfeeding.

“It’s hard to make a blanket recommendation on what drugs are fine for the mother, because it’s going to depend on multiple factors,” Sachs, from the Pediatric and Maternal Health Team in the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, told Reuters Health. “It’s always a risk-benefit decision.” She and her colleagues on the AAP committee said women seeking information on specific medicines should talk with their doctors and visit the National Institutes of Health-run website, LactMed (http://1.usa.gov/15eWNH). That site includes the most up-to-date scientific knowledge on how much of a given drug is passed to an infant during breastfeeding, its effects on babies and possible alternatives to consider.

In its report, published Monday in Pediatrics, the committee focused on a few classes of drugs, including antidepressants, narcotics and smoking cessation aids. Limited information is available on the longterm effects of antidepressants on babies, it wrote, and because the drugs take a long time to break down, levels could build up in infants’ bodies.

“Caution is advised” for certain power ful painkillers such as codeine and hydrocodone - but others including morphine are considered safer when used at the lowest possible dose and for the shortest possible time, pediatricians said. Nicotine replacement therapy, especially gum and lozenges, is typically considered safe to use during breastfeeding, according to the committee. However the FDA discourages the use of stop-smoking drugs such as varenicline, marketed in the US as Chantix, among women who breastfeed.

The risk of exposure to any drug for babies needs to be weighed against the drug’s importance for the mother as well as the benefits of breastfeeding, researchers noted. “The starting point of the report, stressing that the vast majority of drugs are compatible with breastfeeding, is very important in trying to reverse the high level of anxiety and misperception of breastfeeding mothers and many health professionals,” Dr. Gideon Koren, director of the Motherisk Program at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, told Reuters Health in an email.

Koren, who wasn’t involved in the AAP publication, also pointed people to the LactMed database but said he believes the new clinical report “will be widely used and cited.” Women who are breastfeeding should tell their doctors about any over-thecounter drugs and herbal remedies they may be using, Sachs said, in addition to prescription medications.—Reuters

LONDON: In a file picture taken on March 13, 2011 a fox runs onto the pitch before the Six Nations International rugby union match between England and Scotland at Twickenham Stadium in south-west London.—AFP photos

London, a playground for 10,000 urban foxes LONDON: To some they are a nuisance, even a danger. To others, London’s 10,000 foxes are a delightful reminder that this concrete wilderness is teeming with wildlife. The ruddy brown creatures seem out of place on the streets of the British capital-but they are now so common that 70 percent of Londoners will have seen one slinking around in the last week, according to a recent survey. For some city-dwellers, the red fox is the ultimate nightmare neighbor.

Many a Londoner will have had a night’s sleep ruined by a fox’s eerie screeching, only to wake and find their rubbish bins have been upturned. To add insult to injury, the scavenging fox will have left a stench of musk behind. With their flashing eyes and razor-sharp teeth, the foxes have even been characterized as a menace. There have been a spate of reports of babies attacked in their cots by foxes in recent years, though animal rights campaigners say the dangers are wildly exaggerated. In June, London’s mayor Boris Johnson reignited a long-running debate over whether the animals should be culled-by jokingly suggesting that the traditional sport of fox hunting, outlawed in Britain since 2005, should be legalized in the capital. “This will cause massive unpopularity and I don’t care,” said the colorful mayor, who said he was driven to speak out after his cat was apparently attacked by one of London’s foxes.

“If people want to get together to form the fox hounds of Islington (a leafy north London borough), I’m all for it.” There are some 33,000 urban foxes in Britain and a third reside in the capital, according to research by Bristol University. A further 250,000 live in rural areas.

“They are adaptable animals which can eat many kinds of food and are by nature opportunists,” said Calie Rydings of the animal charity RSPCA. “So it is not surprising that they can be found in some towns and cities.”

Fox lovers dismiss ‘attack’ tales With its large parks as well as thousands of houses with private gardens, London is a paradise for foxes. They have been a part of the city landscape since the 1930s, when the urban sprawl began to encroach on their rural territory.

Despite the complaints, the foxes have mostly cohabited happily with their human neighbors.

Some 86 percent of people like the animals, according to a poll for Channel 4 TV. Another survey by Bristol University found that 10 percent of Londoners regularly feed them.

Britain has some of the highest-density fox populations in the world, according to Stephen Harris, professor of environmental sciences at Bristol. “Despite this, they cause remarkably few problems and the vast majority of householders like to see the foxes in their garden,” he told AFP.

Yet every few years, a case hits the headlines that sparks an outcry against the foxes and a slew of calls for the animals to be culled or moved to the countryside.

In 2010, an east London mother spoke of her “living nightmare” after her nine-month-old twin girls were mauled by a fox as they slept in their cots. In February, a one-month-old baby boy had his finger ripped off. But animal charities say such attacks are extremely rare-and in some case, foxes are not even the culprits.

Trevor Williams, director of the Fox Project charity, said he knew of three reported ‘attacks’ by foxes on babies in eleven years-but claims one was actually carried out by the family’s own dog. “According to neighbors, the second also involved a dog. The third story was so full of contradictions, few people believe it,” he told AFP. Even if the stories are true, Williams claimed, the rate of attacks is nothing compared to the 250,000 people bitten by pet dogs each year in Britain.

The biggest threat, according to the RSPCA, is to the foxes themselves. The average life expectancy of an urban fox is only two years, compared to four years in captivity. Cars are responsible for 60 percent of their deaths. The rest die from illness or are killed by around 100 marksmen authorized to shoot foxes in London.

Three years ago, there was an uproar after a video emerged showing four masked men bludgeoning a fox to death with a cricket bat in a London park. But it turned out to be a hoax.

The perpetrators, film directors Chris Atkins and Johnny Howorth, had faked the killing in a bid to highlight the “ludicrous media coverage” of fox attacks.—AFP

This file photo taken September 23, 2003 shows a fox looking through a gate at the Royal Courts of Justice in central London.

H E A LT H & S C I E N C E

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

Women in Argentina sue for $54M over faulty implants

ARGENTINA: Virginia Luna, lawyer of Argentine women in the lawsuit for defective Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) French-made breast implants, shows one of them in her office at the district courts during a press conference.

BUENOS AIRES: About 300 women with faulty PIP breast implants have filed suit seeking $54.7 million in damages from three European companies, their attorney said Monday. “We have filed a class-action suit against France’s Poly Implant Protheses (PIP), Germany’s TUV Rheinland (quality control) and German insurer Allianz,” Virginia Luna told reporters, warning that the total damages sought could be vastly higher since some 15,000 women are believed to have been affected in Argentina alone.

“In one sample we did, with 500 women, 19 percent had breakage (in the implant) which allowed gel to migrate to underarms, neck and head areas, and even lungs,” she said. News of the faulty implants in 2011 sparked fears worldwide, but health officials

in various countries have said the prosthetics were not toxic and did not increase the risk of breast cancer. Doctors in France have removed PIP breast implants from more than 16,000 women and found a quarter of the scandal-tainted products had signs of splitting or leakage, a watchdog there said in June. A total of 16,426 women have had the implants removed since investigators found the devices were twice as likely to rupture as rival brands, and that French manufacturer PIP used industrial silicone to fill them, the National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) said. PIP founder Jean-Claude Mas, 73, has been charged with manslaughter and fraud.

PIP’s implants have been banned and the company, located in southern France, has been liquidated.—AFP

Virginia Luna, lawyer of Argentine women in the lawsuit for defective Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) French-made breast implants, shows one of them in her office.—AFP photos

LAS VEGAS: File photo, research associate Pamela Flores conducts a health assessment on a Desert Tortoise at the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center.—AP photos

Desert tortoise faces threat from its US refuge LAS VEGAS: For decades, the vulnerable US desert tortoise has led a sheltered existence.

Developers have taken pains to keep the animal safe. It’s been protected from meddlesome hikers by the threat of prison time. And wildlife officials have set the species up on a sprawling conservation reserve outside Las Vegas. But the pampered desert dweller now faces a threat from the very people who have nurtured it.

Federal funds are running out at the Desert Tortoise Conservation Center and officials plan to close the site and euthanize hundreds of the tortoises they’ve been caring for since the animals were added to the endangered species list in 1990. “It’s the lesser of two evils, but it’s still evil,” said US Fish and Wildlife Service desert tortoise recovery coordinator Roy Averill-Murray during a visit to the soon-to-be-shuttered reserve at the southern edge of the Las Vegas Valley last week.

Biologists went about their work examining tortoises for signs of disease as Averill-Murray walked among the reptile pens. But the scrubby 220-acre refuge area will stop taking new animals in the coming months. Most that arrive in the fall will simply be put down, late-emerging victims of budget problems that came from the same housing bubble that put a neighborhood of McMansions at the edge of the once-remote site. The Bureau of Land Management has paid for the holding and research facility with fees imposed on developers who disturb tortoise

habitat on public land. As the housing boom swept through southern Nevada in the 2000s, the tortoise budget swelled.

But when the recession hit, the housing market contracted, and the bureau and its local government partners began struggling to meet the center’s $1 million annual budget.

Housing never fully recovered, and the federal mitigation fee that developers pay has brought in just $290,000 during the past 11 months. Local partners, which collect their own tortoise fees, have pulled out of the project. “With the money going down and more and more tortoises coming in, it never would have added up,” said BLM spokeswoman Hillerie Patton.

Back at the conservation center, a large refrigerator labeled “carcass freezer” hummed in the desert sun as scientists examined the facility’s 1,400 inhabitants to find those hearty enough to release into the wild.

Officials expect to euthanize more than half the animals in the coming months in preparation for closure at the end of 2014.

The desert tortoise is a survivor that has toddled around the Southwest for 200 million years.

But ecologists say the loss of the conservation center represents a harmful blow in southern Nevada for an animal that has held onto some unfortunate evolutionary quirks that impede its coexistence with strip malls, new homes and solar plants. Laws to protect the panicky plod-

ders ban hikers from picking them up, since the animals are likely dehydrate themselves by voiding a year’s worth of stored water when handled.

When they’re moved, they nearly always attempt to trudge back to their burrows, foiling attempts to keep them out of harm’s way.

They’re also beset by respiratory infections and other illnesses. No more than 100,000 tortoises are thought to survive in the habitat where millions once burrowed across parts of Utah, California, Arizona and Nevada.

The animals were once so abundant that tourists would scoop them up as souvenirs. Many quickly realized the shy grass-eaters don’t make ideal pets. (For one thing, they can live for 100 years.) And once the species was classified as threatened on the endangered species list, people rushed to give them back.

Former pets make up the majority of the tortoises at the conservation center, where they spend their days staring down jackrabbits and ducking out of the sun into protective PVC piping tucked into the rocky desert floor. Most of these animals are not suitable for release, either infected with disease or otherwise too feeble to survive. Averill-Murray looks as world-weary as the animals he studies. He wants to save at least the research function of the center and is looking for alternative funding sources. “It’s not the most desirable model to fund recovery - on the back of tortoise habitat,” he said.—AP

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

W H AT ’ S O N

SEND US YOUR INSTAGRAM PICS

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hat’s more fun than clicking a beautiful picture? Sharing it with others! Let other people see the way you see Kuwait - through your lens. Friday Times will feature snapshots of Kuwait through Instagram feeds. If you want to share your Instagram photos, email us at instagram@kuwaittimes.net

Greetings

KIFF organizes Freedom Meet to mark Indian Independence Day

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any, many happy returns of the day to Shaikh Ghouse Basha. Best wishes from Shaikh Aslam Basha, Shaikh Samiullah, Shaikh Noor (Pulivendula), Shaikh Riyaz, Kumar, Shaikh Kalimullah, Mogul Abdul Rasool, Mogul Ghouse, Iqbal, Zubair, Ansar, Asif (Patchi) Mastan, near and dear ones from Kuwait and India.

Announcements

Enjoy the taste of true Espresso at Vergnano Cafe at Olympia Complex

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he superior quality of the blends comes from the meticulous selection of the best raw materials available, and from an extraordinary production process. Cafe Vergnano is the first to introduce an innovation that brings all the passion and pleasure of the perfect

Indian Embassy sets up helpline he Indian Embassy in Kuwait has set up helpline in order to assist Indian expatriates in registering any complaint regarding the government’s ongoing campaign to stamp out illegal residents from the country. The embassy said in press release yesterday that it amended its previous statement and stated if there is any complaint, the same could be conveyed at the following (as amended): Operations Department, Ministry of Interior, Kuwait. Fax: 22435580, Tel: 24768146/25200334. It said the embassy has been in regular contact with local authorities regarding the ongoing checking of expatriates. The embassy has also conveyed to them the concerns, fears and apprehensions of the community in this regard.

The authorities in Kuwait have conveyed that strict instructions have been issued to ensure that there is no harassment or improper treatment of expatriates by those undertaking checking. “The embassy would like to request Indian expatriates to ensure that they abide by all local laws, rules and regulations regarding residency, traffic and other matters,” the release read. It would be prudent to always carry the Civil ID and other relevant documents such as driving license, etc. In case an Indian expatriate encounters any improper treatment during checking, it may be conveyed immediately with full details and contact particulars to the embassy at the following phone number 67623639. These contact details are exclusively for the above-mentioned purpose only.

espresso to everyday life at home.

Espresso is now available in Kuwait, through Al-Sanabel Al-Thahabiya Est. Tel: 22413795/98. Espresso Vergnano can be ordered through www.taw9eel.com Espresso Vergnano capsules are compatible with other espresso machines.

n the occasion of India’s 67th Independence Day, Kuwait India Fraternity Forum (KIFF), a socio cultural organization of Indians living in Kuwait, organized a “Freedom Meet” at Abbasiya.

KIFF president Saifuddeen Nalakath in his inaugural speech said that, Independence Day is celebrated not only to commemorate the commitment and determination of freedom fighters towards their goal of setting India free but also it’s a day to evaluate our duties towards the nation and to pledge to shield the attempt of snatching our freedom and its values by the anti-national out-fits.

Addressing the gathering, Aman

Sameer, General Secretary, KIFF Delhi chapter said that, common Muslims who were in the forefront of the freedom are not equally highlighted in the history. He recalled the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters.

Razik Ur-Rahman, President, KIFF Tamil Nadu Chapter, Abdul Samad, President, KIFF Kerala Chapter, Nawab Hussain, Secretary, KIFF Karnataka chapter also spoke on the occasion. The program commenced with a patriotic song and concluded with National anthem.

KIFF General Secretary Amjad delivered welcome speech. Shihab proposed vote of thanks.

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Issue of online visa

by Indian embassy oreigners requiring visas for India need to apply it online from 16th June 2013.

Applicants may log on to the Public portal at ww.indianvisaonline.gov.in. After successful online submission, the hard copy, so generated, has to be signed by the applicant and submitted with supporting documents in accordance with the type of visa along with the applicable fee in cash at any of the two outsource centres at Sharq or Fahaheel. It is essential that applicants fill in their personal details as exactly available in their passports. Mismatch of any of the personal details would lead to non-acceptance of the application.

Fees once paid are non-refundable. All children would have to obtain separate visa on their respective passports.

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8th Expo Pakistan to commence in September he 8th Expo Pakistan will be held from September 26 to 29 in Karachi. Held annually, Expo Pakistan is the biggest trade fair in the country showcasing the largest collection of Pakistan’s export merchandise and services.

Foreign Exhibitors also use the event to launch their products. Expo Pakistan 2012 was visited by delegates from 52 countries and generated a business of over $ 518 million. A 16 member delegation from Kuwait including reputable companies like Al-Yasra Foods also took part in the last exhibition.

Expo Pakistan 2013 is being held under the auspices of the Trade Development Authority Pakistan. Details about the event can be viewed www.expopakisan.gov.pk. Further information and details of sponsorship can be obtained from the office of Commercial Secretary, Pakistan Embassy, Jabriya (25356594) during office hours.

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Write to us Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

AUK Mass Communication & Media students visit Al-Hadath Studios

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ssistant Professor of Mass Communication & Media at the American University of Kuwait, Dr Mohammad Akbar, gave his students at the Broadcast Journalism class an opportunity to visit and tour Al-Hadath Studios - a local broadcast studio in Kuwait. During the visit, Hussein Jamal, the owner of AlHadath Studios and Director of the News Department and Political Programs at Kuwait TV, welcomed the students and conducted a tour in the premises while sharing his personal experiences as a journalist.

As part of an applied learning project, the students were given the chance to record a session that they had created inside an actual studio. Students were assigned specific roles to play as a TV crew, such as interviewer, floor manager, director, where they managed the equipment themselves.

Dr Akbar explained that the students felt comfortable inside the studio. “The students acted professionally and really took the experience in. They put all their energy into creating a full-length live video as a practice

for their class”, he added.

The American University of Kuwait (AUK) is an independent, private, equal opportunity, and co-educational liberal arts institution of higher education. The educational, cultural and administrative structure, methods and standards of AUK are based on the American model of higher learning. The language of instruction is English. More information on the American University of Kuwait can be found at www.auk.edu.kw.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

W H AT ’ S O N

Embassy Information

Abe visits Kuwait’s Islamic relics house

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apanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, currently on an official mission in the country, visited Dar Al-Athar AlIslamiyyah (House of Islamic Antiquities) on Monday.

He was welcomed upon arrival at the DAI by General Supervisor, Sheikha Hessa Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah, who accompanied him while touring its wards, briefing the pre-

mier about some of the relics and items on display. Abe was accompanied by Faisal Mohammad Al-Hajji, Advisor of the Prime Minister Diwan and the head of the honorary mission.

EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA The Embassy of Australia has announced that Kuwait citizens can apply for and receive visit visas in 10 working days through www.immi.gov.au. All other processing of visas and Immigration matters are handled by the Australian Visa Application Centre located in Al Banwan Building, 4B, 1st Floor, Al Qibla Area, Ali Al Salem Street, Kuwait City. Visit. www.vfs-augcc.com for more info. The Embassy of Australia does not have a visa or immigration department. All processing of visas and immigration matters is conducted by the Australian Consulate-General in Dubai. Email: Info.ausdxb@vfshelpline.com (VIS), immigration.dubai@dfat.gov.au (Visa Office), Tel: +971 4 205 5900 (VFS), Fax: + 971 4 355 0708 (Visa Office). Notary and passport services are available by appointment. Appointments can be made by calling the Embassy on 22322422. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF ARGENTINE For the Argentinean citizens who had not already enlisted in the embassy’s electoral register, and taking in consideration the elections which was held on Sunday 11/08/2013, it is necessary to justify they no vote by presence at our embassy which located in (Mishref - Block 6 - Street 42 - Villa 57) and should present the DNI and/or the Argentinean Passport. The Embassy of the Argentine Republic in the State of Kuwait avails itself of this opportunity to renew the assurances of its highest consideration. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF CANADA

P2BK resumes summer program

The Embassy of Canada in Kuwait does not have a visa or immigration department. All processing of visa and immigration matters including enquiries is conducted by the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Individuals who are interested in working, studying, visiting or immigrating to Canada should contact the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, website: www.UAE.gc.ca or www.goingtocanada.gc.ca, E-mail: abdbi-imenquiry@international.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakei 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 open from 07:30 to 12:30. Consular services for Canadian citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00, Sunday through Wednesday. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF GREECE The Embassy of Greece in Kuwait has the pleasure to announce that visa applications must be submitted to Schengen Visa Application Centre (VFS office) located at 12th floor, Al-Naser Tower, Fahad Al-Salem Street, Al-Qibla area, Kuwait City, (Parking at Souk Watia). For information please call 22281046 from 08:30 to 17:00 (Sunday to Thursday). Working hours: Submission from 08:30 to 15:30. Passport collection from 16:00 to 17:00. For visa applications please visit the following website www.mfa.gr/kuwait. nnnnnnn

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or the fourth year in a row, the Youth Project of Proud to Be Kuwaiti (P2BK) resumed with the summer program of ‘Shegardi 2013’ in collaboration with the gifted workshop of Sabah Al-Ahmed Center for Giftedness and Creativity (SACGC).

Speaking about the program, which will go on till September 19, the inventors department manager and acting manager of the creativity department, engineer, Khaled Al-Hassan applauded the center’s cooperation with various NGOs and governmental establishments.

SACGC’s PR manager, Shayma Al-Sherida said the center served all social sects and supported all gifted and creative citizens and provided them with various services like patent rights and commercial marketing of their inventions.

EMBASSY OF US Parents of Kuwaiti citizen children may drop off their sons’ and daughters’ visa applications - completely free of an interview or a trip inside the Embassy. The children must be under 14 years of age, and additional requirements do apply, but the service means parents will no longer have to schedule individual appointments for their children, nor come inside the Embassy (unless they are applying for themselves). The service is only available for children holding Kuwaiti passports. To take advantage, parents must drop off the following documents: Child Visa Drop-off cover sheet, available on the Embassy website (http://kuwait.usembassy.gov/child_visas.htm) - Child’s passport; The Child’s previous passport, if it contains a valid US visa; 5x5cm photo of child with eyes open (if uploaded into DS160, photos must be a .jpg between 600x600 and 1200x1200 pixels, less than 240kb, and cannot be digitally altered); A completed DS160 form; Visa Fee Receipt from Burgan Bank; A copy of the valid visa of at least one parent. If one parent will not travel, provide a visa copy for the traveling parent, and a passport copy from the non-traveling parent with a letter stating no objection to the child’s travel. - For children of students (F2): a copy of the child’s I-20.

Children born in the US (with very few exceptions) are US citizens and would not be eligible for a visa. Parents may drop off the application packet at Window 2 at the Embassy from 1:00 to 3:00 PM, Monday to Wednesday, excluding holidays. More information is available on the U.S. Embassy website: kuwait.usembassy.gov/child_visas.html nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF UKRAINE The Embassy of Ukraine in the State of Kuwait would like to inform that submission of the documents for tourist visa is temporary closed (from August 26 till September 26). Within the above-mentioned period, the visa will be issued only in the case of emergency. In the case of planning travel to Ukraine, please apply for visa before August 20. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF SLOVAK The Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Kuwait would like to inform the public that on the occasion of the Anniversary of the Slovak National Uprising and the Day of the Constitutions, the Embassy will be closed on Thursday, August 29 and Sunday, September 01, 2013. The Embassy would like to inform that the Consular Section is open to the public from Monday to Wednesday from 10:00 till 13:00 hrs.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

TV PROGRAMS

00:45 After The Attack 01:35 Untamed & Uncut 02:25 Hippo: The Wild Feast 03:15 Bondi Vet 04:05 Pit Bulls And Parolees 04:55 Snake Crusader With Bruce George 05:20 Shamwari: A Wild Life 05:45 Gator Boys 06:35 Call Of The Wildman 07:00 Dick ‘n’ Dom Go Wild 07:25 America’s Cutest Pets 08:15 The Most Extreme 09:10 Penguin Safari 10:05 Hippo: The Wild Feast 11:00 Animal Cops Philadelphia 11:55 Snake Crusader With Bruce George 12:20 Call Of The Wildman 12:50 Lion Man: One World African Safari 13:15 Lion Man: One World African Safari 13:45 Austin Stevens Adventures 14:40 Hippo: The Wild Feast 15:30 Shamwari: A Wild Life 16:00 Dick ‘n’ Dom Go Wild 16:30 The Most Extreme 17:25 Talk To The Animals 18:20 Pandamonium 19:15 Monkey Life 19:40 Call Of The Wildman 20:10 Snake Crusader With Bruce George 20:35 Shamwari: A Wild Life 21:05 Kingdom Of The Elephants 22:00 Lion Man: One World African Safari

00:30 Hillbilly Handfishin’ 01:20 Top Hooker 02:10 River Monsters: Untold Stories 03:00 Mythbusters 03:50 Auction Kings 04:15 Auction Hunters 04:40 Auction Kings 05:05 How Do They Do It? 05:30 How It’s Made 06:00 American Guns 07:00 Mythbusters 07:50 Ultimate Survival 08:40 What Happened Next?

09:05 Magic Of Science 09:30 Border Security 09:55 Auction Hunters 10:20 Auction Kings 10:45 How Do They Do It? 11:10 How It’s Made 11:35 Hillbilly Handfishin’ 12:25 Top Hooker 13:15 River Monsters: Untold Stories 14:05 Border Security 14:30 Auction Hunters 14:55 Auction Kings 15:20 Stan Lee’s Superhumans 16:10 What Happened Next?

16:35 Magic Of Science 17:00 Ultimate Survival 17:50 Deadliest Catch 18:40 Mythbusters 19:30 American Guns 20:20 Auction Hunters 20:45 Auction Kings 21:10 How Do They Do It? 21:35 How It’s Made 22:00 Dynamo: Magician Impossible 22:50 The Big Brain Theory

00:05 00:30 01:00 01:50 02:45 03:35 04:25 05:15 05:40 06:05

The Tech Show Food Factory Bad Universe Bad Universe Bad Universe Alien Encounters Alien Encounters The Gadget Show The Tech Show How The Universe Works

07:00 07:50 08:40 09:05 09:30 09:55 10:20 10:45 11:15 11:40 12:05 12:30 13:50 14:20 14:45 15:10 16:00 16:55 17:45 18:35 19:30 20:20 21:10 21:35 22:00 22:50 23:40

Alien Mysteries The Science Of Star Wars The Gadget Show The Tech Show Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Game Changers Food Factory The Gadget Show The Tech Show Alien Mysteries Sci-Trek X-Machines Smash Lab How The Universe Works Alien Mysteries The Science Of Star Wars The Gadget Show The Tech Show Alien Mysteries The Science Of Star Wars The Gadget Show

00:45 01:10 01:35 02:30 03:25 04:20 05:10 06:05 07:00 07:50 08:15 08:45 09:35 10:30 11:20 12:10 13:05 13:55 14:50 15:45 16:40 17:35 18:25 19:20 20:10 20:35 21:05 22:00 22:55 23:50

Chasing Classic Cars Chasing Classic Cars Welcome To India Crime Scene Wild I’m Alive Bone Detectives NASA’s Greatest Missions Way Of Life Reign Of The Dinosaurs Chasing Classic Cars Chasing Classic Cars Way Of Life Danger Hunters Toughest Military Jobs I’m Alive Bone Detectives NASA’s Greatest Missions History Cold Case Welcome To India Reign Of The Dinosaurs Toughest Military Jobs Bone Detectives I’m Alive Secrets Of...

Chasing Classic Cars Chasing Classic Cars NASA’s Greatest Missions Secrets Of...

Hostage In Paradise Murder Shift

00:00 00:20 00:45 01:05 01:30 01:50 02:15 02:35 03:00 03:20 03:45 04:05 04:30 04:50 05:15 05:35 06:00 06:25 06:45 07:10 07:35 07:55 08:20 08:45 09:05 09:30 09:55 10:15 10:40 11:05 11:25 11:50 12:15 12:35 13:00 13:25

Hannah Montana Hannah Montana Brandy & Mr Whiskers Brandy & Mr Whiskers Emperor’s New School Emperor’s New School Replacements Replacements Brandy & Mr Whiskers Brandy & Mr Whiskers Emperor’s New School Emperor’s New School Replacements Replacements Brandy & Mr Whiskers Brandy & Mr Whiskers Austin And Ally Suite Life On Deck Shake It Up A.N.T. Farm Jessie Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Doc McStuffins Mickey Mouse Clubhouse A.N.T Farm A.N.T Farm Jessie Jessie Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Shake It Up Shake It Up Shake It Up Shake It Up

13:45 14:10 15:30 15:50 16:10 17:00 17:20 17:45 18:10 18:30 18:55 19:20 20:05 20:30 20:50 21:15 21:40 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:10 23:35

Shake It Up Den Brother Good Luck Charlie Jessie Violetta A.N.T Farm Austin And Ally Good Luck Charlie Shake It Up That’s So Raven A.N.T. Farm Violetta Jessie Shake It Up Suite Life On Deck Austin And Ally That’s So Raven Jessie A.N.T Farm Good Luck Charlie Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place

00:05 Special Agent Oso 00:15 Imagination Movers 00:40 Jungle Junction 00:55 Jungle Junction 01:10 Handy Manny 01:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 02:00 Little Einsteins 02:25 Special Agent Oso 02:40 Special Agent Oso 02:50 Imagination Movers 03:20 Handy Manny 03:40 Special Agent Oso 03:50 Special Agent Oso 04:00 Timmy Time 04:10 Imagination Movers 04:35 Little Einsteins 05:00 Jungle Junction 05:15 Jungle Junction 05:30 Little Einsteins 05:50 Special Agent Oso 06:00 Special Agent Oso 06:15 Jungle Junction 06:30 Jungle Junction 06:45 Handy Manny 07:00 Special Agent Oso 07:15 Jungle Junction 07:30 Higglytown Heroes 07:45 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 08:10 New Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 08:35 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 08:50 Doc McStuffins 09:05 Doc McStuffins 09:20 Zou 09:35 Henry Hugglemonster 09:50 Henry Hugglemonster 10:00 Lilo And Stitch 10:25 The Little Mermaid 10:50 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 11:05 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 11:20 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 11:45 Mouk 12:00 Winnie The Pooh: Tales Of Friendship 12:05 Art Attack 12:30 Doc McStuffins 12:45 Doc McStuffins 13:00 Zou 13:15 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 13:30 Henry Hugglemonster 13:45 Henry Hugglemonster 13:55 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 14:20 New Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 14:45 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 15:00 Lilo And Stitch 15:25 Mouk 15:40 Higglytown Heroes 15:55 Zou 16:10 Zou 16:20 The Little Mermaid 16:45 Lilo And Stitch 17:10 Doc McStuffins 17:25 Doc McStuffins 17:40 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 17:55 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 18:10 Henry Hugglemonster 18:25 Henry Hugglemonster 18:35 Zou 18:50 Zou 19:00 Timmy Time 19:10 Pajanimals 19:25 Doc McStuffins 19:35 Zou 19:50 Jake & The Neverland Pirates 20:05 Jake & The Neverland Pirates

20:20 Winnie The Pooh: Tales Of Friendship 20:25 Pajanimals 20:35 Doc McStuffins 20:45 Mouk 21:00 New Adventures Of Winnie The Pooh 21:25 Pajanimals 21:35 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 22:00 Timmy Time 22:10 The Hive 22:20 Winnie The Pooh: Tales Of Friendship 22:30 Jungle Junction 22:45 Handy Manny 22:55 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 23:20 Little Einsteins

00:05 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 00:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 00:55 United Tastes Of America 01:20 United Tastes Of America 01:45 Reza’s African Kitchen 02:10 Reza’s African Kitchen 02:35 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 03:00 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 03:25 Food Wars 03:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 04:15 Unique Eats 04:40 Chopped 05:30 Iron Chef America 06:10 Food Network Challenge 07:00 Unwrapped 07:25 Unwrapped 07:50 Andy Bates American Street Feasts 08:15 Unique Sweets 08:40 Reza’s African Kitchen 09:05 Jonathan Phang’s Caribbean Cookbook 09:30 Amazing Wedding Cakes 10:20 Extra Virgin 10:40 Unique Sweets 11:10 Unwrapped 11:35 Have Cake, Will Travel 12:00 Food Network Star 12:50 Reza’s African Kitchen 13:15 Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics 13:40 Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics 14:05 Tyler’s Ultimate 14:30 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 14:55 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 15:20 Symon’s Suppers 15:45 Chopped 16:35 Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics 17:00 Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics 17:25 Tyler’s Ultimate 17:50 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 18:15 Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives 18:40 Guy’s Big Bite 19:05 Symon’s Suppers 19:30 Food Wars 19:55 Food Wars 20:20 Chopped 21:10 Chopped 22:00 Charly’s Cake Angels 22:25 Charly’s Cake Angels 22:50 Unique Sweets 23:15 Unique Sweets 23:40 Food Wars

00:15 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 00:45 Scam City 01:40 Warrior Road Trip 02:35 Banged Up Abroad 03:30 Extreme Tourist Afghanistan 04:25 Lonely Planet: Roads Less Travelled 05:20 Don’t Tell My Mother 05:45 The Best Job In The World 06:15 Maverick Chef 06:40 Delinquent Gourmet 07:10 David Rocco’s Amalfi Getaway 07:35 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 08:05 Scam City 09:00 Warrior Road Trip 09:55 Banged Up Abroad 10:50 Extreme Tourist Afghanistan 11:45 Lonely Planet: Roads Less Travelled 12:40 Don’t Tell My Mother 13:05 The Best Job In The World 13:35 Maverick Chef 14:00 Delinquent Gourmet 14:30 David Rocco’s Amalfi Getaway 14:55 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 15:25 Scam City 16:20 Warrior Road Trip 17:15 Banged Up Abroad 18:10 Extreme Tourist Afghanistan 19:05 Lonely Planet: Roads Less Travelled 20:00 David Rocco’s Amalfi Getaway 20:30 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 21:00 Maverick Chef 21:30 Delinquent Gourmet 22:00 Lonely Planet: Roads Less Travelled

00:00 Megastructures 01:00 Human Lampshade: A Holocaust Mystery 02:00 Alaska Wing Men 03:00 Banged Up Abroad 04:00 Clash Of The Continents 05:00 Shark Men 06:00 Banged Up Abroad 07:00 Doomsday Preppers 08:00 Megastructures 09:00 Human Lampshade: A Holocaust Mystery 10:00 Alaska Wing Men 11:00 Banged Up Abroad 12:00 Clash Of The Continents 13:00 Shark Men 14:00 Banged Up Abroad 15:00 Doomsday Preppers 16:00 Megastructures 17:00 Dark Secrets Of The Lusitania 18:00 Alaska Wing Men 19:00 Helicopter Wars 20:00 Evacuate Earth 21:00 Monkey Thieves

THE RAID: REDEMPTION ON OSN MOVIES ACTION

00:20 Dead Or Alive 01:10 Crocodile King

THE WHISTLEBLOWER ON OSN CINEMA 02:00 02:50 03:45 04:40 05:35 06:30 07:25 08:20 09:15 10:10 11:05 12:00 12:55 13:50 14:45 15:40 16:35 17:30 18:25 19:20 20:10 21:00 21:50 22:40 23:30

Fish Warrior Dangerous Encounters Croc Invasion Zambezi Fish Warrior Dangerous Encounters Croc Invasion World’s Deadliest Killer Three Monster Fish Shocking Sharks World’s Weirdest Croc Labyrinth Caught Barehanded Dangerous Encounters Mother Croc World’s Deadliest Killer Three Phantom Wolverine Monster Croc Hunt World’s Weirdest Caught Barehanded Dangerous Encounters Mother Croc World’s Deadliest Killer Three Phantom Wolverine Monster Croc Hunt

00:00 Hell-18 02:00 Gangs Of Brooklyn-PG15 04:00 The Adventures Of Tintin-PG 06:00 Brake-PG15 08:00 Meteor Storm-PG15 10:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome-PG15 12:00 Blackthorn-PG15 14:00 Meteor Storm-PG15 16:00 Austin Powers In Goldmember-PG15 18:00 Blackthorn-PG15 20:00 Broken Path-PG15 22:00 End Of Days-18

01:30 03:30 05:15 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 14:45 17:00 19:15 21:00 23:00

00:30 01:00 01:30 02:00 02:30 03:00 03:30 04:00 04:30 Leno 05:30 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 11:00 Leno 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30

The Descendants-PG15 Legendary Assassin-PG15 Of Two Minds-PG15 The Wishing Well-PG15 Legendary Assassin-PG15 Ip Man 2-PG15 Mrs. Miracle-PG15 Lorenzo’s Oil-PG15 We Bought A Zoo-PG Morning-PG15 In Time-PG15 The Whistleblower-18

The Daily Show The Colbert Report The Big C Enlightened Unsupervised Last Man Standing Raising Hope Hope & Faith The Tonight Show With Jay Hope & Faith The War At Home Brothers Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Hope & Faith Hope & Faith Last Man Standing Two And A Half Men Arrested Development Brothers The Tonight Show With Jay The War At Home Hope & Faith All Of Us Brothers

14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 Leno 21:00 21:30 22:00 22:30 23:00 23:30 Fallon

Raising Hope Two And A Half Men Arrested Development The Daily Show The Colbert Report The War At Home Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Hot In Cleveland The Simpsons Modern Family Happy Endings The Tonight Show With Jay

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 10:00 10:30 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Good Morning America American Idol Good Morning America Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Once Upon A Time Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Touch The Carrie Diaries Live Good Morning America Touch Once Upon A Time The Carrie Diaries Touch Once Upon A Time The Carrie Diaries The Client List American Idol

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 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 23:00

24 The Killing Breaking Bad Banshee Franklin & Bash Royal Pains 24 The Finder Alphas The Killing Royal Pains Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Alphas 24 Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Alphas Warehouse 13 Bones Castle Justified Banshee

The Daily Show The Colbert Report The Big C Enlightened Unsupervised Late Night With Jimmy

00:00 The Raid: Redemption 02:00 Hell 04:00 Gangs Of Brooklyn 06:00 The Adventures Of Tintin 08:00 Brake 10:00 Meteor Storm 12:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome 14:00 Blackthorn 16:00 Meteor Storm 18:00 Austin Powers In

Goldmember 20:00 Blackthorn

20:00 What’s Your Number?-PG15 22:00 The Double-PG15

00:00 02:00 04:00 PG15 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 PG15 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

Crazy, Stupid, Love.-PG15 Cottage Country-PG15 While You Were Sleeping-

01:20 Rebel Without A Cause-PG 03:10 Westworld 04:35 Rhapsody-FAM 07:00 In The Good Old Summertime-FAM 08:45 Light In The Piazza-PG 10:25 Blossoms In The Dust-PG 12:00 Riffraff-PG 13:35 Now, Voyager-PG 16:00 Billy The Kid-PG 17:35 Red Dust-FAM 19:05 Quo Vadis-PG 22:00 The Fixer

01:45 03:30 06:00 08:00 09:30 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 21:00 23:00

Resolution 819-PG15 The Firm-PG15 Coriolanus-PG15 Love Finds A Home-PG15 The Key Man-PG15 Money For Nothing-PG15 Love Takes Wing-PG15 Offline-PG15 Money For Nothing-PG15 Footloose-PG15 The Big Bang-18 Dirty Girl-18

Gabe The Cupid Dog-PG15 The Tooth Fairy 2-PG Another Stakeout-PG15 While You Were SleepingChasing Liberty-PG15 Another Stakeout-PG15 Love Birds-PG15 Rushmore-PG15 Crazy, Stupid, Love.-PG15

01:15 Butter-18 03:00 The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel-PG15 05:15 The Way-PG15 07:30 Certain Prey-PG15 09:00 Take Shelter-PG15 11:15 Web Of Lies-PG15 13:00 Every Jack Has A Jill-PG15 14:45 Arrietty-FAM 16:45 Take Shelter-PG15 19:00 Like Crazy-PG15 21:00 Passion-PG15 23:00 The Change Up-18

01:00 Krazzy Planet 02:30 Beverly Hills Chihuahua 3: Viva LA Fiesta!

04:15 The Great Bear 06:00 Freddy Frogface 07:45 Rainbow Valley Heroes 09:30 Twigson 10:45 The Great Bear 12:15 Hugo 14:30 Cher Ami 16:00 The Wild Thornberrys Movie 18:00 Twigson 20:00 Mandie And The Secret Tunnel 22:00 Cher Ami 23:30 The Wild Thornberrys Movie

00:00 One Angry Juror-PG15 02:00 Seeking Justice-PG15 04:00 Paranorman-PG 06:00 Batman: The Dark Knight Returns Part One-PG15 08:00 The Muppets-PG 10:00 A Monster In Paris-PG 12:00 The Girl-PG15 14:00 Charlotte’s Web-PG 16:00 The Muppets-PG 17:45 The Bourne Legacy-PG15

00:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 01:00 Xtreme Waterparks 01:30 Bert The Conqueror 02:00 Off Limits 03:00 Globe Trekker 04:00 Bizarre Foods America 05:00 Bizarre Foods America 06:00 Hotel Impossible 07:00 Globe Trekker 08:00 Off Limits 09:00 Piha Rescue 09:30 Piha Rescue 10:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 11:00 Bert The Conqueror 11:30 Xtreme Waterparks 12:00 Globe Trekker 13:00 Bizarre Foods America 14:00 International House Hunters 14:30 International House Hunters 15:00 Hotel Impossible 16:00 Inside Luxury Travel - Varun Sharma 17:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 18:00 Off Limits 19:00 Bizarre Foods America 20:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 21:00 Descending 22:00 Departures

06:00 Kid vs Kat 06:10 Iron Man Armoured Adventures 06:35 Kickin It 07:00 Max Steel 07:25 Phineas And Ferb 07:35 Phineas And Ferb 07:50 Slugterra 08:15 Pair Of Kings 08:40 Kickin It 09:05 Kickin It 09:30 Lab Rats 09:55 Lab Rats 10:20 Pair Of Kings 10:45 Kick Buttowski 11:10 Mr. Young 11:35 Slugterra 12:00 Kickin It 12:25 Max Steel 12:50 I’m In The Band 13:15 Lab Rats 13:40 Almost Naked Animals 14:05 Phineas And Ferb 14:30 Lab Rats 14:55 Randy Cunningham: 9th Grade Ninja 15:20 Phineas And Ferb 15:30 Phineas And Ferb 15:45 Pair Of Kings

Classifieds WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

Kuwait

SHARQIA-1 KILLING SEASON (DIG) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) JOBS (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) JOBS (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) SHARQIA-2 THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) Special Show “THE SMURFS 2 (DIG)” THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) SHARQIA-3 THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) Special Show “THE SMURFS 2 (DIG)” CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) MUHALAB-1 JOBS (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) JOBS (DIG) MUHALAB-2 KILLING SEASON (DIG) FRI THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG)

1:00 PM 3:15 PM 5:30 PM 8:00 PM 10:00 PM 12:30 AM 2:00 PM 4:15 PM 6:15 PM 6:15 PM 8:30 PM 10:45 PM 1:00 AM 1:30 PM 3:45 PM 6:15 PM 6:00 PM 9:00 PM 11:45 PM 1:30 PM 4:15 PM 6:30 PM 9:30 PM

KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY (22/08/2013 TO 28/08/2013) THE LONE RANGER (DIG) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) THE LONE RANGER (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

3:30 PM 6:30 PM 9:30 PM 12:30 AM

CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI)

12:30 AM

AVENUES-3 RED 2 (DIG) THE LONE RANGER (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG)

1:00 PM 3:30 PM 6:30 PM 9:00 PM 11:30 PM

AVENUES-4 THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG)

1:30 PM 3:45 PM 6:00 PM 8:15 PM 10:30 PM 12:45 AM

360º- 1 THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG)

12:30 PM 2:45 PM 5:00 PM 7:15 PM 9:30 PM 11:45 PM

FANAR-4 THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

1:00 PM 3:15 PM 5:30 PM 7:45 PM 10:15 PM 12:45 AM

FANAR-5 THE CONJURING THE CONJURING THE CONJURING EL7ARAMY & EL3ABIET THE CONJURING THE CONJURING NO SUN+TUE+WED

1:15 PM 3:30 PM 5:45 PM 8:00 PM 10:00 PM 12:15 AM

MARINA-1 DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) HAMMER OF G’S (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) JOBS (DIG) JOBS (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

12:45 PM 2:45 PM 5:00 PM 7:00 PM 9:30 PM 12:30 AM

MARINA-2 THE WOLVERINE (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) EL7ARAMY & EL3ABIET (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

12:30 PM 3:00 PM 5:30 PM 7:30 PM 10:00 PM 12:15 AM

360º- 3 DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG-3D) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG-3D) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG)

1:30 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 8:15 PM 10:30 PM 12:45 AM

360º- 4 THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) EL7ARAMY & EL3ABIET (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

360º- 2 RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

2:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM 10:00 PM 12:30 AM

1:30 PM 1:00 PM 3:30 PM 5:45 PM 7:45 PM 10:00 PM

MUHALAB-3 THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG)

12:45 PM 3:00 PM 5:00 PM 7:15 PM 9:45 PM

FANAR-1 RED 2 (DIG) RED 2 (DIG) JOBS (DIG) JOBS (DIG) JOBS (DIG)

2:00 PM 4:30 PM 6:45 PM 9:15 PM 11:45 PM

FANAR-2 DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) STREET DANCE ALL STARS (DIG) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG)

12:30 PM 2:30 PM 4:30 PM 6:45 PM 8:45 PM 10:45 PM 12:45 AM

FANAR-3 CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI)

12:30 PM

MARINA-3 THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG-3D) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG-3D) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) THE CONJURING (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED AVENUES-1 KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) KILLING SEASON (DIG) NO SUN+TUE+WED

2:00 PM 4:00 PM 6:00 PM 8:00 PM 10:00 PM 12:05 AM

AVENUES-2 CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI) CHENNAI EXPRESS (DIG) (HINDI)

12:30 PM 3:30 PM 6:30 PM 9:30 PM

AL-KOUT.1 EL7ARAMY & EL3ABIET (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) JOBS (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) EL7ARAMY & EL3ABIET (DIG) THE WOLVERINE (DIG) AL-KOUT.2 DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) DESPICABLE ME 2 (DIG) THE SMURFS 2 (DIG) JOBS (DIG) JOBS (DIG)

1:30 PM 3:45 PM 6:00 PM 8:15 PM 10:30 PM 12:45 AM 2:00 PM 4:15 PM 6:30 PM 8:45 PM 11:00 PM 1:15 AM

12:30 PM 2:30 PM 5:00 PM 7:30 PM 10:00 PM 12:05 AM 12:45 PM 2:45 PM 5:00 PM 7:00 PM 9:15 PM 11:45 PM

MATRIMONIAL

CHANGE OF NAME I, Crusian Edison holder of Indian Passport No. E 6572487, shall henceforth be known as C. Joseph Edison. (C 4493) 28-8-2013 I, Bhaskar Hungarkatha of Indian Passport No. G 0638528 hereby wish to change my name to JOHN B. D’ALMEIDA. (C 4491) 27-8-2013 I, Hareesha, Indian Passport No. E 6534426, have changed my name to Hareesha Rama Moolya.

(C 4489)

Prayer timings

Proposals invited for a fair Keralite Marthomite girl (24 yrs, 159 cm) hailing from an aristocratic family and just completed M.Sc nursing in paediatrics, from parents of God-fearing boys with equivalent qualifications preferably employed in Kuwait, Gulf/India. Email: georgethomaskollad@yahoo.com (C 4494) Nair girl from Quilon district, 34 years, 153 cm, M.Sc Biotechnology, PhD, now working as scientist at Trivandrum, seeks alliance from well educated, employed youth from India/abroad (Keralite only). Contact email: pillaisurendran56@yahoo.com

Fajr: Shorook Duhr: Asr: Maghrib: Isha:

04:00 05:22 11:50 15:24 18:16 19:36

112

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

Airlines QTR THY THY ETH GFA JZR UAE ETD LZB THY RJA FDB MEA NIA MSR OMA QTR THY DHX FDB BAW KAC KAC KAC JZR JZR JZR FDB UAE ABY IRM FDB QTR IRA ETD QTR UAE TGZ GFA MEA IAW MSC IRM KNE KAC KAC KAC KAC JZR JZR JZR UAE MSR THY CLX KNE IYE KAC QTR FDB KAC

Arrival Flights on on Wednesday 28/8/2013 Flt Route 148 DOHA 5464 SABIHA 764 SABIHA 620 ADDIS ABABA 211 BAHRAIN 539 CAIRO 853 DUBAI 305 ABU DHABI-INTL 7779 BOURGAS 768 ISTANBUL 642 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 67 DUBAI 408 BEIRUT 253 ALEXANDRIA 612 CAIRO 643 MUSCAT 138 DOHA 770 ISTANBUL 170 BAHRAIN 69 DUBAI 157 LONDON 206 ISLAMABAD 382 DELHI 412 MANILA 555 ALEXANDRIA 1541 CAIRO 529 ASYUT 53 DUBAI 855 DUBAI 125 SHARJAH 1186 TEHRAN 55 DUBAI 132 DOHA 603 SHIRAZ 301 ABU DHABI-INTL 6130 DOHA 4987 DUBAI 1553 BATUMI 213 BAHRAIN 404 BEIRUT 157 BAGHDAD 403 ASYUT 1188 MASHAD 470 JEDDAH 344 CHENNAI 302 MUMBAI 284 DHAKA 352 COCHIN 561 SOHAG 165 DUBAI 243 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 871 DUBAI 610 CAIRO 766 ISTANBUL 870 LUXEMBOURG 480 TAIF 826 SANAA 672 DUBAI 140 DOHA 57 DUBAI 790 MEDINAH

Time 0:05 0:10 1:40 1:45 1:55 0:40 2:25 2:30 2:35 2:50 3:10 3:10 2:10 2:00 3:15 3:20 3:30 4:35 5:10 5:50 6:30 7:25 7:30 6:15 6:20 6:25 6:40 7:45 8:25 8:50 9:10 9:15 9:25 9:25 9:30 9:45 10:05 10:35 10:40 10:55 11:00 11:35 11:45 12:15 8:20 7:50 8:15 8:05 12:00 11:35 12:20 12:45 13:00 13:10 16:15 13:20 13:30 13:40 13:45 13:50 13:55

IRC MSR SVA JAV FDB KAC KAC RJA JZR JZR QTR ETD JZR UAE ABY UAL SVA GFA JZR KNE JZR NIA KAC KAC KAC KAC QTR KAC KAC FDB GFA MSC MSR KAC JAI FDB OMA ABY ETD JZR MEA AXB SYR JZR KLM ALK UAE ETD QTR GFA QTR JAI FDB KAC AIC JZR JZR UAL JZR DLH JAI MSR THY

6692 575 500 621 8051 502 538 640 535 787 134 303 357 857 127 982 510 215 177 462 777 251 542 774 674 618 144 786 166 63 219 405 606 102 572 61 647 129 933 189 402 489 1285 481 417 229 859 307 136 217 146 576 59 154 975 239 185 981 135 636 574 614 772

MASHAD SHARM EL SHEIKH JEDDAH AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA DUBAI BEIRUT SHARM EL SHEIKH AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA CAIRO RIYADH DOHA ABU DHABI-INTL MASHAD DUBAI SHARJAH WASHINGTON DC DULLES RIYADH BAHRAIN DUBAI MEDINAH JEDDAH ALEXANDRIA CAIRO RIYADH DUBAI DOHA DOHA JEDDAH PARIS DUBAI BAHRAIN SOHAG LUXOR NEW YORK MUMBAI DUBAI MUSCAT SHARJAH ABU DHABI-INTL DUBAI BEIRUT COCHIN DAMASCUS SABIHA AMSTERDAM COLOMBO DUBAI ABU DHABI-INTL DOHA BAHRAIN DOHA COCHIN DUBAI SABIHA CHENNAI AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA DUBAI BAHRAIN BAHRAIN FRANKFURT MUMBAI CAIRO ISTANBUL

14:00 14:15 14:30 15:10 15:35 15:40 15:50 15:55 16:10 16:15 16:15 16:35 16:50 16:55 17:10 17:15 17:20 17:20 17:30 17:45 17:50 18:00 18:15 19:25 19:25 19:10 18:25 18:30 18:40 18:55 19:05 19:15 19:30 19:35 19:35 20:00 20:00 20:05 20:05 20:10 20:15 20:35 20:55 20:10 21:05 21:10 21:15 21:30 21:35 21:45 22:00 22:05 22:20 22:20 22:25 22:30 22:40 22:40 23:00 23:10 23:20 23:30 23:45

Airlines AIC JAI UAL DLH MSR THY SYR THY THY ETH NIA MEA LZB THY UAE FDB MSR OMA ETD QTR QTR JZR FDB RJA JZR GFA THY JZR KAC BAW FDB JZR KAC JZR KAC KAC ABY KAC UAE FDB ETD KAC QTR IRA IRM UAE JZR QTR GFA KAC TGZ MEA IAW KAC JZR KAC JZR MSC JZR KAC IRM KNE JZR

Departure Flights on Wednesday 28/8/2013 Flt Route 982 AHMEDABAD 573 MUMBAI 981 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 637 FRANKFURT 615 CAIRO 5465 ISTANBUL-SABIHA 1284 DAMASCUS 773 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 765 ISTANBUL-SABIHA 621 ADDIS ABABA 254 ALEXANDRIA 409 BEIRUT 7780 BOURGAS 769 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 854 DUBAI 68 DUBAI 613 CAIRO 644 MUSCAT 306 ABU DHABI 139 DOHA 149 DOHA 560 SOHAG 70 DUBAI 643 AMMAN 242 AMMAN 212 BAHRAIN 771 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 164 DUBAI 537 SHARM EL SHEIKH 156 LONDON 54 DUBAI 256 BEIRUT 117 NEW YORK 534 CAIRO 789 MADINAH 671 DUBAI 126 SHARJAH 501 BEIRUT 856 DUBAI 56 DUBAI 302 ABU DHABI 153 ISTANBUL-SABIHA 133 DOHA 602 SHIRAZ 1187 TEHRAN 4987 BEIRUT 356 MASHHAD 6131 DOHA 214 BAHRAIN 541 CAIRO 1554 BATUMI 405 BEIRUT 158 AL NAJAF 175 FRANKFURT 776 JEDDAH 103 LONDON 480 ISTANBUL-SABIHA 406 SOHAG 786 RIYADH 785 JEDDAH 1189 MASHHAD 461 MADINAH 176 DUBAI

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Time 00:05 00:20 00:25 00:30 00:30 01:10 01:50 02:20 02:40 02:45 02:55 03:10 03:25 03:40 03:45 03:50 04:15 04:20 04:20 04:25 05:15 05:35 06:30 06:35 06:55 07:00 07:10 07:25 08:00 08:25 08:25 08:50 09:05 09:10 09:15 09:25 09:30 09:45 09:50 09:55 10:15 10:15 10:25 10:25 10:30 10:50 11:00 11:15 11:25 11:30 11:35 11:55 12:00 12:10 12:25 12:30 12:30 12:35 12:50 13:00 13:10 13:10 13:20

MSR THY KNE UAE IYE FDB QTR IRC MSR KAC KAC SVA KAC JZR FDB JAV RJA JZR QTR ETD JZR CLX ABY UAE SVA GFA UAL JZR JZR KNE NIA QTR FDB GFA JZR KAC MSC MSR JAI FDB ABY KAC KAC OMA KAC MEA DHX SYR KLM ETD ETD ALK UAE KAC QTR KAC GFA KAC FDB QTR JAI JZR JZR KAC JZR

611 767 481 872 827 58 141 6693 576 673 617 503 773 188 8052 622 641 238 135 304 538 792 128 858 511 216 982 184 266 471 252 145 64 220 134 283 404 619 571 62 120 361 331 648 351 403 171 1286 417 934 308 230 860 381 137 301 218 205 60 147 575 554 1540 415 528

CAIRO ISTANBUL-ATATURK TAIF DUBAI RIYAN MUKALLA DUBAI DOHA MASHHAD SHARM EL SHEIKH DUBAI DOHA MADINAH RIYADH DUBAI DUBAI AMMAN AMMAN AMMAN DOHA ABU DHABI CAIRO HONG KONG SHARJAH DUBAI RIYADH BAHRAIN BAHRAIN DUBAI BEIRUT JEDDAH ALEXANDRIA DOHA DUBAI BAHRAIN BAHRAIN DHAKA ASYUT ALEXANDRIA MUMBAI DUBAI SHARJAH COLOMBO TRIVANDRUM MUSCAT KOCHI BEIRUT BAHRAIN DAMASCUS DAMMAM SHARJAH ABU DHABI COLOMBO DUBAI DELHI DOHA MUMBAI BAHRAIN ISLAMABAD DUBAI DOHA ABU DHABI ALEXANDRIA CAIRO KUALA LUMPUR ASYUT

14:00 14:10 14:10 14:15 14:30 14:30 14:55 15:00 15:00 15:05 15:45 15:45 16:00 16:00 16:20 16:30 16:55 17:05 17:20 17:20 17:40 17:45 17:50 18:15 18:20 18:20 18:30 18:30 18:40 18:40 19:00 19:25 19:35 19:50 20:05 20:15 20:15 20:30 20:35 20:40 20:45 20:50 20:50 20:55 21:05 21:15 21:50 21:55 22:05 22:05 22:15 22:20 22:25 22:30 22:35 22:40 22:45 23:00 23:00 23:05 23:05 23:20 23:25 23:50 23:55

34

s ta rs CROSSWORD 293

STAR TRACK Aries (March 21-April 19) ARIES A feeling of restlessness this morning may lead you to list the variety of things you want to accomplish now. Some political issues may come to your attention but most of all you just want to complete your work so you can make some phone calls for a future get-together with friends. This afternoon your activities center on finishing up old business and list making. Your many responsibilities around the home front may keep you away from those who offer you a much-needed relaxation this afternoon.

There are errands to run and people to see. Soon enough however, you will be able to spend some quiet time with a loved ones. Use the fresh fruits in the stores now for after dinner desert treats, perhaps a tart.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Much of your time today is geared toward work. Later today, you may be performing or attending a performance of some sort. If you are performing, there will be time for pictures or to purchase new clothing for the evening’s celebration. For now however, the importance of your completing an ongoing task is high on the list of accomplishments. You take an active interest in psychology, different cultures and history. You can find support from all sides when it comes to any sort of mental activity— writing, speaking and all forms of communication. You have high ideals and an ability to enchant others with your words and images. Your presence has a way of easing things and helping those around you. A sick friend feels better after your visit.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

ACROSS 1. A very small circular shape.

4. A tiny or scarcely detectable amount.

11. Mentally or physically infirm with age.

15. A federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment.

16. A woman poseur.

17. An Eskimo hut.

18. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

19. A community of people smaller than a village.

21. A priest who served a particular deity in ancient Rome.

23. A heavy brittle metallic element of the platinum group.

25. A colorless and odorless inert gas.

28. Complacently or inanely foolish.

31. A person afflicted with leprosy.

32. Ancient Italian deity in human shape, with horns, pointed ears and a goat's tail.

36. The compass point that is one point north of northeast.

37. A feudal lord or baron in Scotland.

38. Bulky grayish-brown eagle with a short wedge-shaped white tail.

39. Straggling shrub with narrow leaves and conspicuous red flowers in dense globular racemes.

42. A metric unit of volume equal to one tenth of a liter.

43. The herpes virus that causes infectious mononucleosis.

44. A constellation in the southern hemisphere near Telescopium and Norma.

45. A sweetened beverage of diluted fruit juice.

47. Normal relaxed breathing.

50. An island in Antigua and Barbuda.

52. The main land mass of a country or continent.

54. (slang) Merchandise that is shoddy or inferior.

56. A rare silvery (usually trivalent) metallic element.

57. An official prosecutor for a judicial district.

58. A hard gray lustrous metallic element that is highly corrosion-resistant.

61. Fiddler crabs.

63. A town and port in northwestern Israel in the eastern Mediterranean.

67. A city in western Russia on the Dnieper River.

71. An unimaginably large amount.

73. A percussion instrument consisting of a pair of hollow pieces of wood or bone (usually held between the thumb and fingers) that are made to click together (as by Spanish dancers) in rhythm with the dance.

74. A member of a people living in southern Benin and Togo and southeastern Ghana.

75. A metrical unit with unstressed-unstressedstressed syllables.

78. A guided missile fired from shipboard against an airborne target.

79. Small cubes with 1 to 6 spots on the faces.

80. Casserole of eggplant and ground lamb with onion and tomatoes bound with white sauce and beaten eggs.

81. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

DOWN 1. Lacking or deprive of the sense of hearing wholly or in part.

2. A translucent mineral consisting of hydrated silica of variable color.

3. A village in eastern Ireland (northwest of Dublin).

4. A particular environment or walk of life.

5. An utterance expressing pain or disapproval.

6. A belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school.

7. (Old Testament) Samson's Philistine mistress who betrayed him by cutting off his hair and so deprived him of his strength.

8. A colobus monkey with a reddish brown coat and white silky fringes down both sides of the body.

9. Standard time in the 5th time zone west of Greenwich, reckoned at the 75th meridian.

10. A colorless odorless gaseous element that give a red glow in a vacuum tube.

11. Tallest living quadruped.

12. Advanced in years.

13. Great merriment.

14. A Scottish word.

20. The corporate executive responsible for the operations of the firm.

22. Hardened sugary exudation of various trees.

24. A siren of German legend who lured boatmen in the Rhine to destruction.

26. Any of various plants of the genus Althaea.

27. The (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb.

29. (comparative of `near') Being the one of two that is less distant in space.

30. Wear away.

33. A particular environment or walk of life.

34. Straighten up or out.

35. A state in the western United States.

40. A form of Japanese poetry.

41. A condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders.

46. A metric unit of length equal to one hundredth of a meter.

48. In former classifications a major division of Mammalia comprising all hoofed mammals.

49. An alluvial deposit that contains particles of some valuable mineral.

51. Of or pertaining to a number system having 8 as its base.

53. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian mythology.

55. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali earth group.

59. The most northwestern Hawaiian island (beyond Kauai).

60. Either of two muscles of the abdomen and pelvis that flex the trunk and rotate the thigh.

62. Squash bugs.

64. Climbing vine native to China.

65. Swiss painter influenced by Kandinsky (18791940).

66. (electronics) Designating sound transmission or recording or reproduction over a single channel.

68. A city in the Asian part of Russia.

69. Someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike.

70. God of love and erotic desire.

72. Edible tuber of any of several yams.

76. A note appended to a letter after the signature.

77. (Akkadian) God of wisdom.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

You express yourself deliberately and do not waste your words. You have a natural sense of organization and come across as regimented and perhaps a little too sober at times. Today will bring opportunities to loosen up and enjoy yourself, the day and your surroundings. Making your own special contribution, teaching or helping someone progress and achieve is a positive happening. Being with your loved ones or favored friend this afternoon is rewarding, fun and inspiring. There are quick answers, great wit and an excess of insights. This afternoon revolves around a variety of social gatherings; the joy of interacting with others is in high gear. The perfect escape from the ordinary should be merged into your life more often.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Again, you may find yourself in a group activity. This most probably could be within a conference meeting in the workplace. You can demonstrate great understanding and sensitivity to the needs of others and are in a good position to communicate. Lovers, children and other people or things dear to your heart are emphasized this afternoon. Being appreciated and admired for your gifts and talents are powerful needs.

Taking chances, perhaps reaching out to make friends with those who seem distant, whether it is with some activity, people, entertainment, etc., can bring big rewards. You could discover yourself through creativity and self-expression. This recent increased confidence may be a key to career opportunities.

Leo (July 23-August 22) Your finished work will be well received; keep up your good work and do not slack . . . You will be most pleased with the results. A little research has brought you to some interesting insights . . . Think of what more research could do. This afternoon you may find yourself relaxing with neighbors or sibling. You handle words and tell stories with consummate skill and others love to hear you speak or entertain. Things change and people move—you may want to get it all on videotape or perhaps just a tape recorder for all to enjoy. Creative ideas are plentiful—perhaps a progressive backyard barbecue, swim party, sports competition, etc. You will enjoy good communication all day long.

Virgo (August 23-September 22) The pull to change or to try new things may challenge you in the work area this morning. Perhaps a meeting can occur that will give opportunities to all persons to present their own ideas of how they might or might not want things changed.

This will certainly cut down on arguments and may even allow you more freedom.

Family, home and security seem just about ideal to you and you may decide to stop and purchase an item or two for your home or garden. You may decide to begin some type of yard work or design a hothouse or a fall garden—you have plenty of ideas. You are very imaginative with your home and domestic setup. Getting everyone involved in a rap session of planning is also good. A sense of community pervades your family life.

Word Search

Libra (September 23-October 22) You appear comfortable with yourself today. Everything seems to be working together—you may find yourself able to communicate well. You have a natural sense for communicating with others, especially those younger than yourself. Teaching, lecturing or making presentations tends to show off your showmanship in grand ways.

This is a time for imagination and creativity; you can be spellbinding. You are successful in your endeavors, particularly today. You have great insight into matters of personal freedom. You come up with brilliant ways to help others express themselves. You could be helping with babysitting this evening. You relax with children in activities that may include sports, acting, singing, etc.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) You may be able to enjoy and value your own life situation today. You are very much involved with all that is traditional, but with this special twist.

You are a revolutionary when it comes to the domestic scene and have some very special insights into home, family and surroundings. You will be giving your home surroundings much scrutiny today. You may want to do some repairs—or in some way, conceal what is present. One way to do this is in window treatment or interesting paint patterns on your walls. This type of change holds your interest now. You like unconventional friends and are a nonconformist yourself. You have friends that may enjoy helping you today—in turn, you want to help them. You enjoy sharing new techniques.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You find yourself in a very practical mood—working with, instead of against, yourself. Security is very important and you may find that you are most interested in checking out ways in which to secure your possessions or your business, if you have your own business. There is a promise of company or plans for a dinner party soon. This may have you interested in spending some extra time in a special section of the grocery store. You set out to purchase all the ingredients necessary for a superlative meal. You are also interested in growing things, perhaps herbs, and may take the opportunity to pick up some information on preferred plants for a little garden. You provide peaceful surroundings. It would be fun to have a small pot of herbs for each dinner guest.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19) You have a special way with the older people in the workplace as well as within the family setting. As a teacher, you may find yourself spending quite a bit of time teaching music, sewing or any of the creative arts. An inner vision coupled with the ability to see the big picture often finds you working as a go-between with others. You are very giving, accommodating and even flattering in relationships, able to adjust to any situation. Reflective and tactful, you are able to please others. Above all, you are forever charming and gracious as well as a bit mysterious. With all of this going for you, you are able to pick and choose a love relationship of your desire and not just whoever comes along. Be prepared for romance this evening.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) You may be planning a large get-together with the press or a big sales promotion and hiring people to advance your business or your career. You are on the right track but do consider saving a little research money for another promotion in about a month. This way, the word not only gets around but sticks in the mind of those who will support you. This may be political, show business or a new business; whatever the case, you will find success. If you have not done this type of advertisement before now, you might call or request a get-together with someone that has done this type of advertising and retain some expert advice. There may be prizes, food choices, decorations, etc. You can then take the ideas and organize the best part.

Pisces (February 19-March 20) Join in the teamwork and group spirit today. There are opportunities to learn about your working mates in a team support type of situation. Working together to bring about some venture has resulted in a positive outcome and there is time later today to celebrate and praise each other. A clever person you are . . . Taking the opportunity to show your work or ideas to others is a good idea but it is important not to reveal too many details, keeping your name on your work. Higher-ups are watching you and they will be interested in what you have to offer. You may reach new levels in understanding about life today. The evening’s energies are more toward relaxation and appreciation. This may mean a walk or bicycle ride through the park.

Yesterday’s Solution

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku

Yesterday’s Solution

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

i n f o r m at i o n For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 GOVERNORATE Sabah Hospital

24812000

Amiri Hospital

22450005

Maternity Hospital

24843100

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

Chest Hospital

24849400

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

Adan Hospital

23940620

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

Physiotherapy Hospital

24874330/9

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

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

Hawally

Al-Madeena

22418714

Al-Shuhada

22545171

Al-Shuwaikh

24810598

Al-Nuzha

22545171

Sabhan

24742838

Al-Helaly

22434853

Al-Faiha

22545051

Al-Farwaniya

24711433

Al-Sulaibikhat

24316983

Al-Fahaheel

23927002

Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh

24316983

Ahmadi

23980088

Al-Mangaf

23711183

Al-Shuaiba

23262845

Kaizen center

25716707

Rawda

22517733

Adaliya

22517144

Al-Jahra

25610011

Khaldiya

24848075

Al-Salmiya

25616368

Kaifan

24849807

Shamiya

24848913

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salem

22549134

Nuzha

22526804

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Qadsiya

22515088

Dasmah

22532265

Bneid Al-Gar

22531908

Shaab

22518752

Qibla

22459381

Ayoun Al-Qibla

22451082

Mirqab

22456536

Sharq

22465401

Salmiya

25746401

Jabriya

25316254

Maidan Hawally

25623444

Bayan

25388462

Mishref

25381200

W Hawally

22630786

Sabah

24810221

Jahra

24770319

New Jahra

24575755

West Jahra

24772608

South Jahra

24775066

North Jahra

24775992

North Jleeb

24311795

Ardhiya

24884079

Firdous

24892674

Omariya

24719048

N Khaitan

24710044

Fintas

23900322

INTERNATIONAL CALLS

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

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

Kaizen center 25716707

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

Afghanistan 0093 Albania 00355 Algeria 00213 Andorra 00376 Angola 00244 Anguilla 001264 Antiga 001268 Argentina 0054 Armenia 00374 Australia 0061 Austria 0043 Bahamas 001242 Bahrain 00973 Bangladesh 00880 Barbados 001246 Belarus 00375 Belgium 0032 Belize 00501 Benin 00229 Bermuda 001441 Bhutan 00975 Bolivia 00591 Bosnia 00387 Botswana 00267 Brazil 0055 Brunei 00673 Bulgaria 00359 Burkina 00226 Burundi 00257 Cambodia 00855 Cameroon 00237 Canada 001 Cape Verde 00238 Cayman Islands 001345 Central African 00236 Chad 00235 Chile 0056 China 0086 Colombia 0057 Comoros 00269 Congo 00242 Cook Islands 00682 Costa Rica 00506 Croatia 00385 Cuba 0053 Cyprus 00357 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Czech Republic 00420 Denmark 0045 Diego Garcia 00246 Djibouti 00253 Dominica 001767 Dominican Republic 001809 Ecuador 00593 Egypt 0020 El Salvador 00503 England (UK) 0044 Equatorial Guinea 00240 Eritrea 00291 Estonia 00372 Ethiopia 00251 Falkland Islands 00500 Faroe Islands 00298 Fiji 00679 Finland 00358 France 0033 French Guiana 00594 French Polynesia 00689 Gabon 00241 Gambia 00220 Georgia 00995 Germany 0049 Ghana 00233 Gibraltar 00350 Greece 0030 Greenland 00299 Grenada 001473 Guadeloupe 00590 Guam 001671 Guatemala 00502 Guinea 00224 Guyana 00592 Haiti 00509 Holland (Netherlands) 0031 Honduras 00504 Hong Kong 00852 Hungary 0036 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Iceland 00354 India 0091 Indian Ocean 00873 Indonesia 0062

Iran 0098 Iraq 00964 Ireland 00353 Italy 0039 Ivory Coast 00225 Jamaica 001876 Japan 0081 Jordan 00962 Kazakhstan 007 Kenya 00254 Kiribati 00686 Kuwait 00965 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Laos 00856 Latvia 00371 Lebanon 00961 Liberia 00231 Libya 00218 Lithuania 00370 Luxembourg 00352 Macau 00853 Macedonia 00389 Madagascar 00261 Majorca 0034 Malawi 00265 Malaysia 0060 Maldives 00960 Mali 00223 Malta 00356 Marshall Islands 00692 Martinique 00596 Mauritania 00222 Mauritius 00230 Mayotte 00269 Mexico 0052 Micronesia 00691 Moldova 00373 Monaco 00377 Mongolia 00976 Montserrat 001664 Morocco 00212 Mozambique 00258 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Namibia 00264 Nepal 00977 Netherlands (Holland) 0031 Netherlands Antilles 00599 New Caledonia 00687 New Zealand 0064 Nicaragua 00505 Nigar 00227 Nigeria 00234 Niue 00683 Norfolk Island 00672 Northern Ireland (UK) 0044 North Korea 00850 Norway 0047 Oman 00968 Pakistan 0092 Palau 00680 Panama 00507 Papua New Guinea 00675 Paraguay 00595 Peru 0051 Philippines 0063 Poland 0048 Portugal 00351 Puerto Rico 001787 Qatar 00974 Romania 0040 Russian Federation 007 Rwanda 00250 Saint Helena 00290 Saint Kitts 001869 Saint Lucia 001758 Saint Pierre 00508 Saint Vincent 001784 Samoa US 00684 Samoa West 00685 San Marino 00378 Sao Tone 00239 Saudi Arabia 00966 Scotland (UK) 0044 Senegal 00221 Seychelles 00284 Sierra Leone 00232 Singapore 0065 Slovakia 00421 Slovenia 00386 Solomon Islands 00677

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013

lifestyle G o s s i p

T

he upcoming Zac Efron comedy movie “Townies” has a new name: “Neighbors.” Universal announced the new title Monday.

Starring Efron, Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen, it will be released on May 9, 2014. Nicholas Stoller (“The Five-Year Engagement”) will direct the tale of a young couple forced to live next to a fraternity house after the birth of their newborn baby. Stoller also directed “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “Get Him to the Greek” for the studio.

It will be the third comedy film to debut on the May 9 weekend.

Already slotted on that date are Open Road’s “Chef,” written and directed by Jon Favreau, and “Tyler Perry’s Single Mom’s Club” from Lionsgate. Andrew J.Cohen and Brendan O’Brien teamed on the “Neighbors” nee “Townies” - screenplay. Dave Franco and Lisa Kudrow co-star in the film, produced by Point Grey Pictures.

P

atrick Dempsey’s wife inspired him to start racing. The 47-year-old actor has been racing for over eight years and competed in his second 24 Hours of Le Mans in France this year, racing a Porsche 911 GTS RSR and finishing fourth in his class. ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star Dempsey has loved motor racing since he was a young boy but it was his spouse Jillian Fink who convinced him to actually compete. During an appearance on ‘The Late Show with David Letterman’, he revealed: “I’ve loved it since I was a kid and always loved it. My father was very much into it. The Indianapolis 500 was a big event in our house and that’s how it started. I watched a lot of television and my wife got tired of me sitting around, so she said, ‘Get off the couch and go learn how to.’ “ Dempsey’s trials and tribulations in the 24-hour pro-am endurance race this year have been chronicled for a four-part TV documentary series, ‘Patrick Dempsey: Racing Le Mans’, and it will also explore the relationship between Hollywood and racing. The actor explained: “It’s a four parter and the first part is setting up Le Mans, what it means and the history. Also Paul Newman, Steve McQueen and James Garner are big racers. Paul Newman had raced there and was on the podium, and an incredible racer, Steve McQueen of course did the movie ‘Le Mans’ and Garner was a big off-road racer.”

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fter bringing the history-making US baseball player Jackie Robinson to the big screen, Chadwick Boseman is going to try another icon: James Brown. Boseman has been cast to play the Godfather of Soul in a planned biopic by “The Help” director Tate Taylor. The film from Universal Pictures and Imagine Entertainment is currently untitled. Mick Jagger and Brian Grazer are among the producers. The project has been in development for years, with various actors and directors attached. It’s set to finally begin shooting this year in the US In an interview Monday with The Associated Press, Taylor said of the great soul singer: “Those are big shoes to fill.”

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elly Osbourne wished Miley Cyrus had “put her tongue in her mouth” during her performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. The 28-yearold star has given her close friend some words of advice following her racy appearance with Robin Thicke at the VMAs on Sunday which featured her ‘twerking’ and grinding against Robin during their rendition of his hit ‘Blurred Lines’. Miley, 20, also repeatedly licked her lips as she danced in a two-piece, flesh colored latex bikini and rubbed herself suggestively with a foam finger. During a special episode of ‘Fashion Police’ which aired on Monday night Kelly’s co-stars, including Joan Rivers, criticized Miley’s risque appearance - which left many famous faces in the audience at the VMAs, such as Taylor Swift, Will Smith and One Direction star Niall Horan, stunned.

Kelly insisted she loved her pal before offering her words of wisdom, saying: “I look at the performance and yes, I do have a lot of the same opinions as you guys about it ... Look Miley’s my friend and I love her, and I have her back no matter what, but as her friend I’m going to tell her - put your tongue in your mouth! I love you, but just put your tongue in your mouth.” But Kelly did like the vintage, black and jewel Dolce & Gabbana separates that Miley, 20, wore on the red carpet and the bikini she gyrated in on stage. Kelly said: “We’re not talking about her performance, we’re talking about what she’s wearing ... It’s not that original (the bikini) but I do appreciate its reminiscent of the ‘Blurred Lines’ music video.”

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d Sheeran thinks his female fans want to “mother” him. The 22-year-old singer doesn’t believe he is a sex symbol and thinks women are more interested in looking after him than making passionate love to him. Speaking at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), he told People magazine: “I find the whole concept of women screaming at me so odd. It’s very flattering, but I don’t think I will ever consider myself to be a sex symbol. “If you speak to most women, they want to take me home and mother me rather than take me to bed. I just have that impression.” The ginger-haired star - who is currently single - was spotted cosying up to Ellie Goulding at the VMAs in Brooklyn, New York City, on Sunday night with the pair pictured holding hands while watching the performances. However, Ellie was quick to dispel rumors, as she has just started dating One Direction star Niall Horan - who is friends with Ed. In a post on her Twitter account, Ellie said: “I love that holding hands with my friends means we’re an item. In that case I am in many relationships.

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yndi Lauper feels “sad” for Miley Cyrus following her controversial performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. The legendary Grammy Award-winning singer has expressed concern for the ‘We Can’t Stop’ star after her salacious on-stage antics with ‘Blurred Lines’ hitmaker Robin Thicke at the ceremony on Sunday likening the routine to a ‘Girls Gone Wild’ softcore porn video and branding it “raunch” not art. Speaking on Australian radio show ‘Brig & Lehmo’, she said: “That was girl gone wild. So sad, so sad. There she is a young 20-something trying to prove she can hang with the big boys and girls, you know ... basically simulating a ‘Girls Gone Wild’ video on stage and I just felt like that was so beneath her and raunchy, really

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t turns out the MTV VMA ceremony was also a little occasion for Obamacare and celebrities to combine together in the guise of none other than Katy Perry and President Obama himself last night. It started yesterday when Perry used her Twitter account to retweet President Obama’s plea for youth sign up for Obamacare via social media. “If you’re one of millions of young Americans w/out health insurance, you can get affordable coverage starting Oct. 1,” the president tweeted from his account. When the singer retweeted it, he thanked her, which Perry also retweeted. Politico, which first reported the Tweets, also noted that President Obama exchanged tweets with Jason DeRulo. DeRulo, promoting the iTunes availability of his “Marry Me” single, included a link to the Obamacare signup Web site.

tyle guru Michael Raphael claims the ‘Started from the Bottom’ rapper failed to reimburse him for nearly $40,000 in expenses including shopping trips and plane rides - incurred while working for the star which aren’t covered by his salary. According to the lawsuit, which was obtained by TMZ, Drake hired the stylist in August 2012 to consult on his OVO clothing line at a rate of $39,583 per month.

However, Michael says he also spent thousands of dollars of his own money on buying designer clothing such as Nike and Diesel for the rapper, as well as paying for flights and hotels to meet him in locations around the world. The style guru claims the 26-year-old star promptly paid his salary and covered additional expenses between August and November 2012 without any issues, but abruptly stopped payments in December 2012. He is now suing his former employer for $76,490 to cover both his salary for that month and extra charges he incurred while working for Drake. Michael provided numerous receipts to back up his claims, which show that he spent $1,162 at Nike, $1,483 at Diesel and $714 at American Rag. Drake - who recently won his own legal battle against the New York City nightclub he famously brawled in with Chris Brown - has yet to comment on the lawsuit.

raunchy. It wasn’t even art.” The ‘Time After Time’ hitmaker also aired her disapproval for the lyrical content of Robin’s song, which she believes glorifies “date rape”. She added: “She’s in a song that literally says that the blurred lines allowed you to ... when a woman says no, she means yes, and that’s frightful because that’s date rape.” Cyndi, 60, further pointed out that fellow performer Lady Gaga - who appeared in a revealing seashell thong bikini - exhibited tasteful artistry in her show-opening performance, but implied that Miley, 20, was simply seeking attention with her raunchy flesh-colored latex bikini and ‘twerking’.

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Hollywood star George Clooney waves from aboard a taxi boat in the Venice canal grande upon his arrival in Venice for the Mostra Film Festival yesterday. Clooney is in Venice to present the movie ‘Gravity’ by director Alfonso Cuaron out of competition at the 70th Venice International Film Festival. — AFP

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p-and-coming actress Rachel Brosnahan, who played call girl Rachel Posner on Netflix’s “House of Cards,” is set to star in “The Sainthood of Bethany Wolfe,” an indie movie that Michael Mailis (“Act of Valor”) and Benjamin Scott (“Lovelace”) are producing, TheWrap has learned. Dustin McLean will make his feature directorial debut with the film, which is expected to start production early next year.

Story follows Bethany Wolfe (Brosnahan), a young girl taken in by a priest after losing her parents in a bloody

murder-suicide. Told by the priest that she’s destined to become a saint, she instead grows up to be a contract killer. Riddled with guilt and struggling with OCD, she finds herself on the brink of insanity as she’s forced to reconcile what she has become with what she is meant to be.

Brosnahan, who recently played Genevieve Duchannes alongside Alice Englert and Emmy Rossum in WB/Alcon’s “Beautiful Creatures,” is best known for her work on “House of Cards” opposite Corey Stoll. She made her Broadway debut in “The Big Knife” and can also be seen in an episode of Netflix’s other original series, “Orange Is the New Black.”

McLean has been writing, directing and producing award-winning short films for more than a decade. His thesis film, “Anya,” was chosen to screen at Florida State University’s gala dinner as an example of the school’s best work. Mailis, who previously partnered with Legendary Pictures during the period of “300,” “Batman Begins” and “The Hangover,” is currently partnered with the Bandito Brothers, having executive produced the company’s hit action movie “Act of Valor.” He also served as an executive producer on the award-winning rock documentary “It Might Get Loud.

Scott, who recently served as VP of development for Eclectic Pictures, co-produced the Amanda Seyfried movie “Lovelace” and also worked on “Playing for Keeps” with Gerard Butler. He previously founded the independent production company Infinite Cre8tions and co-founded the improvisational comedy troupe Jew-Jitsu, in addition to collaborating on projects with Queen Latifah’s Flavor Unit Productions and Allen West Productions. Brosnahan is represented by Innovative Artists, Carole Dibo Talent Management and Schreck Rose Dapello & Adams, while Scott’s lawyer is Jeremy Tenser. — Reuters

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ilbert Taylor was a master of black and white and a master of different universes. Taylor, the influential “Star Wars” cinematographer who worked on a number of stellar films, died Aug 23 at the age of 99, according to the British Society of Cinematographers. Dee Taylor, his wife, told the BBC News that her husband died at their home on the Isle of Wight off the south coast of England.

Taylor, a founding member of the cinematographers’ society, entered the British film industry as a cameraman’s assistant in the 1920s when he was still a teenager. He had dozens of credits to his name and worked with a wide range of directors, including George Lucas, Alfred

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e’re all being watched. All the time. That’s a key message of “Closed Circuit,” an entertaining and wellcrafted if not overly heart stopping British conspiracy thriller starring Eric Bana and Rebecca Hall. Security cameras are everywhere, giving us birds-eye glimpses of each character, and reminding us that we, too, are never really alone. Such a concept is hardly shocking in 2013. After all, we write an

Hitchcock and Roman Polanski. He was the director of photography on several distinctive black-and-white classics including Stanley Kubrick’s “Dr Strangelove, or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb” and Richard Lester’s Beatlemania chronicle “A Hard Day’s Night.” He also worked on television series including the very popular “The Avengers.” During World War II, he was active with the Royal Air Force filming nighttime bombing raids over Germany. He was born in Bushey Heath, a small town 20 miles north of London. — AP

email, and soon an ad pops up telling us where to buy that thing we sort of mentioned. And of course we’ve learned in recent months not only of secret government surveillance but even the “Boyfriend Tracker” app for our phones. Perhaps we really do live in a post-privacy era.

But if it’s not a shocking concept, the makers of “Closed Circuit,” an intelligent film directed by John Crowley, have cer-

This film image released by Focus Features shows Eric Bana, left, and Ciaran Hinds in a scene from ‘Closed Circuit.’ — AP

ndian Kashmiri separatists are demanding the cancellation of a concert by celebrated conductor Zubin Mehta to be staged in the disputed territory next month, saying it would legitimize Indian “state repression”. The concert by the Mumbai-born Mehta on September 7 is being organized by the Indian Kashmir state tourism department and the German embassy in New Delhi. Veteran separatist Syed Ali Geelani appealed to Germany to call off the concert, saying it “legitimizes state repression” in the conflict-riven territory.

Another senior separatist leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, echoed Geelani’s call and suggested money for the concert would be better spent on a “Kashmir-German friendship hospital”. “Musical concerts and killings can’t go hand-in-hand... Germany has to understand the ground situation,” he told reporters. Civil society and human rights activists in Kashmir also urged Germany to call off the concert, saying in a letter it “must not allow itself to be party to activities that seek to further legitimize the Indian occupation”.

Both the Kashmir state government and the German embassy declined comment. Mehta, 77, will conduct the Bavarian State Orchestra in works

by Beethoven, Haydn and Tchaikovsky for an invited audience of 1,500. The event will be held in the sprawling Shalimar Mughal gardens under the mighty Chinar trees on the banks of the picturesque Dal Lake in the state’s summer capital Srinagar. Not all Kashmiris oppose the concert. “It’s a lifetime opportunity to listen to timeless music live,” art critic Lalit Gupta told AFP. German ambassador Michael Steiner said last week the concert was “for the people of Kashmir”.

“With the magic power of music, crossing geographical, political and cultural borders, we want to reach the hearts of the Kashmiris with a message of hope,” he said. Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their 1947 independence from Britain. Rebel groups have been fighting Indian forces in Indian Kashmir since 1989 for independence or for merger of the territory with Pakistan. The fighting has left tens of thousands of people dead. Kashmir has been relatively calm in

recent years but there have been new, deadly outbreaks of violence along the contested border between Indian and Pakistani forces.

Mehta announced last year at a reception in New Delhi he would like to play in Kashmir, adding he would “cancel every appointment” to do so. He told India’s IANS news service he had fond memories of a trip to Kashmir in the 1970s with his wife and children. “We fell in love with it,” he said. The Kashmir Monitor in an editorial noted the concert was not an international show but “an individual’s show. Musicians from different countries do travel to other countries and perform there.”“But as things happen in Kashmir, there is little scope for one to separate politics from other aspects of life,” the newspaper said. — AFP

In this photograph taken on October 26, 2009, Philharmonic conductor Zubin Mehta stands before the interpretation of First Brahms symphonia at the Madrid auditorium in Madrid, Spain. — AFP

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ob Dylan, “Another Self Portrait (1969-1971): The Bootleg Series Vol. 10” (Columbia)

In the latest entry of his ongoing vault-diving releases, Bob Dylan revisits one of his least- heralded albums. “Self Portrait,” released in 1970, is remembered less today for its music than the classic first line of a Rolling Stone magazine review by Greil Marcus that greeted it: “What is this (expletive)?” It was hard not to see why. The cultural icon baffled his fans with a badly-produced collection of minor compositions, some live cuts, covers of traditional folk and blues songs and even contemporary songs like “The Boxer.”

Marcus, who writes the liner notes for this four-disc box set, wisely doesn’t step back from that assessment. He shouldn’t. Time doesn’t improve the work.

It seems amazing four decades later that an artist of Dylan’s caliber would take such a hands-off attitude toward his art, packing up his basic tracks and sending them to a Nashville producer who adds some truly cringe-worthy arrangements. Maybe that was precisely the point. Two of the discs in this box are primarily Dylan’s original recordings with several outtakes, most with minimal arrangements. They’re almost uniformly better than what was on the original “Self Portrait.” There are a handful of interesting curios: a version of “If Not for You” with a haunting violin accompaniment, an unreleased studio session with George Harrison and a full band version of “I Threw It All Away.”

Disc three is a recording of the 1969 concert at the Isle of Wight festival, which interrupted a period of seclusion for Dylan. Hard to go wrong with a recording of Dylan performing with The Band, but the performance has a tentative, almost rushed feel to it. Although the “Self Portrait” sessions seemed strange at the time, Dylan’s subsequent work gives it more context. Still performing regularly at 72, Dylan’s concerts keep his formidable catalogue alive along with an American blues, rock and folk tradition that predates even him. These 1970 recordings make clear that even back then, Dylan was constantly inspired by it.

Marcus has another theory to explain “Self Portrait,” sug-

tainly shown how creepy it can be. In the London we see here - one of the most watched places in the world, we learn, in terms of security cameras - you never know who’s around the corner, or who’s been in your apartment, leaving a book slightly askew on your shelf.

You don’t know who that cab driver or dinner-party companion truly is. You don’t even know which side your closest colleagues are on. At least, such is life for Martin Rose (Bana) and Claudia Simmons-Howe (Hall), two lawyers who become ensnared in the legal case surrounding a horrific terror attack, the bombing of a bustling London food market. As the film begins, we’re staring, fittingly, at footage from security cameras - eventually 15 of them. Each captures a snippet of life on a busy November morning. In one frame, a truck shows up where it’s not supposed to. In an instant, 120 people are dead.

Rowing peacefully on the Thames, Martin gets a call. The lawyer defending the lone surviving terror suspect has committed suicide. Work pressure and all that. Martin’s been tapped to replace him. As for Claudia, she’s the Special Advocate, an additional defense lawyer designated by British law to examine secret evidence to be presented in “closed session,” away from the public and the press. Even Simon cannot see this evidence.

And he’s not allowed to communicate with Claudia. This is easy at first, since the two happen to be estranged lovers.

They’re ambitious enough not to reveal their past romantic entanglement and thus get removed from the case. But if they’re found out, it could end their careers. And nothing goes according to plan, of course. As the two are drawn together by circumstance as well as their obvious mutual attraction - this is a movie, remember? Lawyers are extremely attractive in movies, even in those odd British wigs - they find themselves having to meet secretly, blatantly defying their superiors.

gesting it was Dylan’s attempt to step away from people who worshipped him as a musical genius, a voice of his generation. “He was trying to quit, but no one would accept his resignation,” he wrote. Fine. So why would anyone want to buy a four-disc resignation statement?

Through the years, Dylan’s bootleg series has provided some real thrills, and interesting new perspectives on his work. This one doesn’t. Only completists will find something interesting. — AP

A smart script by Steven Knight keeps the action humming along smoothly and concisely - if sometimes, it must be said, a bit illogically. And the two main actors are a pleasure to watch.

Bana seethes with frustration and encroaching fear, and looks wonderful doing it. As for Hall, this terrific actress brings the film much of its humanity, striking that difficult balance of competence and determination tempered by a growing recognition of her frailty.

A top-notch supporting cast features the always excellent Ciaran Hinds as Martin’s close colleague, Denis Moschitto as the frightened defendant, Julia Stiles as an American journalist who’s perhaps digging too deep, and, finally, the wonderful Jim Broadbent as the Attorney General - Martin’s boss. You’ve seen Broadbent as Denis Thatcher and as Bridget Jones’ dad; now watch him play an oily official whose cordial smile seems pasted on his face. Never has an invitation to breakfast from the boss sounded quite so unappealing. “Closed Circuit,” a Focus Features release, is rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America for “language and brief violence.”

Running time: 96 minutes. Three stars out of four. — AP

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Models showcase creations by Indian designers during the Lakme Fashion Week (LFW) Winter/Festival 2013 in Mumbai yesterday. — AFP photos

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London streets packed for Caribbean-themed carnival H

undreds of thousands of revelers hit the streets Monday for the Notting Hill Carnival, the celebration of Caribbean culture that filled west London with dancers in shimmering feathers. The two-day extravaganza draws up to a million people to the west London neighborhood to watch troupes in exotic costumes perform on floats as the music pumps out.

Revellers milled between the stalls and thumping sound systems, drinking, dancing, and tasting jerk chicken as the smells of open-cooked Caribbean food wafted through the air. Police made 111 arrests on Sunday’s first day: 30 for drugs, 27 for public order, nine for assaulting officers, amongst other offences. Some 168 arrests were made by 2145 GMT Monday, 61 of them for drugs offences. “On the day we know that the vast majority of people come to carnival to enjoy themselves and soak up the atmosphere but like any event of this scale there are always those who come to commit crime,” said Scotland Yard police headquarters.

On Sunday, London Ambulance Service and St John Ambulance treated more than 300 people for cuts and bruises to their feet and alcohol-related injuries. A spokesman said 45 were taken to hospital. Monday saw around 60 bands in costumes dance to the rhythms of the mobile sound systems or steel bands. Around 40 static sound systems were blaring out the beats. The carnival was founded in 1964 following the disturbances in Notting Hill six years earlier that saw clashes between whites and newly arrived immigrants from the West Indies. — AFP

Performers and visitors take part in the parade on the second day of the Notting Hill Carnival in west London.

—AFP photos

Victoria Beckham wants to create fashion ‘empire’

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ictoria Beckham, the one-time pop star who is now one of the most courted designers at the upcoming New York Fashion Week, says she has even bigger plans for her eponymous brand. “I want to get bigger and bigger,” the former Spice Girl told the New York Times ahead of the unveiling of her springsummer 2014 collection during fashion week, which begins on September 5. “I absolutely want an empire.” Beckham, who was once only famous for her stint as Posh Spice and as the wife of footballer David Beckham, has come into her own since her first runway show in New

York in 2008 took the fashion world by surprise.

Beckham told the magazine that she designs clothes she would want to wear herself, from chic, ultra-flattering dresses to her current fall line of masculine-influenced coats and body-skimming skirts and trousers. She has also branched out into sunglasses, handbags and denim, and her main Victoria Beckham label is expanding rapidly in Asia.

Beckham has also created a new, more-affordable diffusion line, Victoria, which is more casual and colorful to appeal to a younger market. “I want to reach as many women throughout the

world as I can,” she said.

“There are more categories that I want to enter into. I have five categories at the moment.

But at some point I would love to do shoes, I would love to do fragrance, I would love to do makeup, I would like to do underwear. There are so many things I want to do.” The 39-yearold mother of four, who recently moved back to London from Los Angeles, said that she misses the climate, openness and work ethic in the city. “I am very career minded, and I think my personality is more suited to America,” she said.

“I am a working mum.” — AFP

Princess Diana biopic set for limited release in November

Shoe Mart at Centrepoint unveils ‘Back to School’ 2013 collection KUWAIT: Shoe Mart the region’s leading retail haven for Shoes & Bag’s have launched a unique ‘Back to School’ campaign this season for every little boy and girl. This season’s styles offer colorful backpacks, elegant range of shiny leather bowed, flowered pumps and ballerinas and accessories for girls, while boys can choose from a number of comfortable casual shoes, Lamborghini styled bags, slip-ons and moccasins adorned with buckles or straps. There is also a wide assortment of school shoes for girls from Classic Mary Jane’s to black ballet pumps and black school shoes for boys. A vivid range of colors and cartoon characters are seen on various school bags in the range.

The ‘Back to School’ range offers a selection of school bags, an exciting range of back packs, as well as pencil cases, lunch boxes and water bottles .The diversity in the range of school bags will most definitely meet every child’s personal likings and preferences.

Shoe Mart’s general manager, John Hood shared his excite-

ment about the ‘Back to School’ collection launch: “Shoe Mart’s ‘Back to School’ campaign has proven to be a success with our customers year after year. Every year we strive to make it special to reach out to all and at the same time create an edge with our offering. This year we have worked on an extremely unique giveaway as part of ‘Back to School’ promotion which will certainly thrill children and their parents.”

A definite keepsake, customer gets a free alarm clock on every purchase of ‘Back to School’ product. We are sure that with our ‘Back to School’ range every little customer of ours will be happy with our giveaway which is an ideal keepsake. Head to the nearest Shoemart at Centrepoint which is located at Rai, Hawally, Salmiya, Kuwait City, Fahaheel, Fintas, Sulaibikhat, Jahra and the flagship store at The Avenues, The Mall and let your children go wild and create their new and improved ‘Back to School’ super look.

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ntertainment One will release “Diana,” a biopic starring Naomi Watts as the famed British princess, on Nov 1, the studio said on Monday. The film will open in limited release that first weekend before expanding into more cities and theaters.

Three films will open wide that weekend “Ender’s Game,” the Thanksgiving animated comedy “Free Birds” and the geezer comedy “Last Vegas.” Three others will open in limited release romantic drama “About Time,” “Le Week-End” and “Aftermath.” Entertainment One picked up “Diana” towards the end of this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

Oliver Hirschbiegel directed the film from a screenplay by award-winning playwright Stephen Jeffreys, which was based on the book “Diane: Her Last Love.” The film focuses on the last two years of Diana’s life, including her secret love affair with Hasnat Khan. — Reuters

Princess Diana biopic set for limited release in November

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A boat made to look like a roasted duck is seen on the Huangpu River in front of the financial district of Pudong in Shanghai yesterday.—AFP

Shanghai ‘roasts’ the giant Rubber Duck S

hanghai has served up a “roasted” version of a Dutch artist’s giant yellow duck, complete with drumsticks and crispy brown skin. Florentijn Hofman’s Rubber Duck installation gained rave reviews when a 16.5 meter-tall (54-feet) version arrived in Hong Kong this summer. Hundreds of thousands of people viewed it against the backdrop of the skyscrapers that line

the city’s Victoria Harbor. Not to be outdone, Shanghai-which is vying with Hong Kong to be China’s financial capital-has unveiled its own version on the Huangpu River, which forms its waterfront Bund district.

“The design process took place during Shanghai’s scorching hot summer days, so we just thought: ‘Let’s roast it’,” designer Han Beishi

told AFP. “Other inspiration came from an ancient Chinese poem: ‘The duck knows first when the river becomes warm in spring’,” he added.

Shanghai’s duck is actually a working ferry boat which state media reported yesterday will carry passengers and host cultural performances including poetry reading. The duck’s head, at the bow, is yellow, but reversed and looking back

towards its body which is made of papier mache, with jutting drumsticks and cooked wings.

Several Chinese cities rushed to display versions of Hofman’s Rubber Duck which has been making appearances around the world since 2007 — leading the official People’s Daily newspaper to criticize the flock of copycats. But the Huangpu river has made more headlines this year for a pol-

lution scandal which saw more than 10,000 dead pigs drift down it in March, discarded by farmers upstream. Han said he floated the idea of making a pig but city fathers were not amused. “It was my first choice, but the organizers had some concerns and the idea was dropped,” he said.—AFP

Homesick British put colonial stamp on India’s gardens

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ndia’s monument to love, the Taj Mahal, was once even more romantic, cloaked behind towering foliage and only shyly revealing its contours as the visitor approached-until a British viceroy removed the mystery. Lord Curzon, an enthusiastic gardener and Britain’s viceroy to India from 1899 to 1905, “imposed an imperial stamp” on what has become the nation’s most famous monument, says US historian Eugenia Herbert.

Curzon “effectively clear-felled” fragrant trees, shrubs and other plants to open up views of the Taj, says Herbert, author of “Flora’s Empire”-a detailed his-

In this file photograph taken on December 4, 2010 tourists visit the Taj Mahal in Agra.

tory of British gardens in colonial India.

Today the Taj, which draws millions of tourists a year, is surrounded by neat rectangles of manicured lawn. “The gardens would have had to be trimmed back but those who saw them before spoke of how the greenery gradually revealed the mystery” of the Taj’s stunning facade, Herbert told AFP in an interview.

Herbert’s book was published recently to rave reviews in India with news magazine India Today calling it a “scholarly tour de force”. The viceroy was not alone in putting his stamp on the Indian landscape, and a horticultural legacy remains more than sixty years since the end of British rule. Homesick colonials left their imprint on India’s parks and gardens, many of which are still full of tidy, green lawns, trimmed hedges and flowerbeds with British blooms. The British left “a lasting horticultural mark on India-much as India did on them”, writes Herbert, whose book was compiled from letters and diaries of British colonialists and official archives.

When the British first arrived in India in the 17th century, they discovered a continent brimming with strange but lush, exotic flowers that made them yearn for their carefully tended gardens back home. “The farther from home they ventured, the more they longed for familiar cowslips and hollyhocks and Michaelmas daisies, for well-trimmed lawns and neat flowerbeds,” says

Herbert, professor emeritus of history at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts.

In India, where outbreaks of malaria, dysentery and other illnesses constantly brought death, many colonialists desired the comfort that a well-ordered garden could lend, she says. For the British in India, “like tea, gardens offered colonials reassurance in situations of stress”, she says. The joy of recreating an English flower garden in a foreign landscape was recounted in rhapsodic terms by a military officer’s wife, Edith Cuthell, in 1905. “My violets are in bloom,”

File photograph taken on July 21, 2009 tourists throng the lawns of the Taj Mahal in Agra.

Cuthell wrote in a letter home to her mother. “You cannot think how one treasures out here the quiet little ‘home flower’. Dear little English flower,” she said.

Wherever the British went, Herbert notes, they took with them, as part of their “cultural baggage”, their love of gardens and their view about what a garden

A picture taken on August 4, 2013, shows a cast of “Le Penseur” (The thinker), a sculpture of French sculptor Auguste Rodin (18401917) displayed on his tomb, at the “Villa des Brillants”, in Meudon, west of Paris.

In this file photograph taken on July 21, 2009 monsoon clouds loom over the Taj Mahal in Agra.—AFP

should look like-”and nowhere was this more evident than in India”. Large houses drew inspiration from country estates back home with their “sweeping park, copses of trees and water” and bungalows had their “gravel paths, shrubs, flower beds and attempts at a lawn”.

Usually, the garden was the responsibility of the woman, who was “terribly bored with her husband busy running India,” says the book, which Herbert told AFP took her “the better part of 10 years” to write. British women in India relied on the services of a gardener to do the actual groundskeeping. With labor so cheap, sometimes the grass was planted blade by blade to create the lawn-the essential part of any proper English gardenand also cut painstakingly by hand. But the tame landscapes created by the British were a far cry from the extraordinary beauty of Mughal gardens.

Humayun’s Tomb in New Delhi-the inspiration of the Taj Mahal-is a stunning example.

The Mughals, famed for their architectural splendors, are one of the Indian subcontinent’s great dynasties and ruled from the early 16th to the mid18th century. The gardens of Humayun’s

Tomb with their pools, plants and trees are meant to symbolize paradise and are one of the earliest examples of a royal garden tomb in the Indian subcontinent, scholars say. But they fell into neglect as Mughal power waned and were only restored a decade ago when the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and the Archaeological Survey of India brought back to life long-dormant fountains for the first time in some 400 years.

Water started flowing through narrow canals representing the four rivers of paradise described in the Koran and gardeners planted thousands of mango, lemon and pomegranate trees and sweet-smelling hibiscus and jasmine plants-Mughal favorites. Despite such splendor, the British stamp on gardens remains elsewhere in India. The Taj has become a “bit of a template” for Indian official monuments and gardens, says Herbert, while English annuals and perennials have become the mainstay of many gardens in the subcontinent.

It is “one of the more benign legacies” of British rule in India, says Herbert.—AFP

Sri Lankan police apologize for dog wedding S ri Lanka police have apologized for holding a group wedding ceremony for sniffer dogs after the country’s culture minister condemned the event and demanded an investigation, officials said yesterday. Nine pairs of police dogs dressed in shawls, hats and socks were placed on a decorated platform like those used in traditional weddings in the ceremony Monday in the central town of Kandy.

Their marriages were also registered by an official in the presence of a crowd of veterinary surgeons, medical doctors, top police officers and the public. Video footage on local television showed the married dog couples were later being driven away in a decorated police jeep for their “honeymoons.”

The ceremony received wide publicity, and also strong criticism from the cultural officials.

Culture and Arts Minister T.B.

Ekananayake said the ceremony undermined traditional wedding rituals and should be strongly condemned. He called for an investigation into the incident. A decorated platform is used for traditional nuptials by the Sri Lanka’s majority Sinhalese Buddhists.

Police spokesman Buddhika Siriwardena apologized yesterday for any damage to the country’s cultural heritage, saying the program was aimed at breeding the

sniffer dogs.

“This program is aimed at breeding dogs accustomed to local weather and food, thereby saving money,” Siriwardena said in a statement, adding that in 2011 the police department spent $500,000 importing such dogs from the Netherlands.—AP

Sri Lankan police hold a pair of sniffer dogs at a “wedding” of nine dog couples in the central Sri Lankan town of Kandy yesterday.—AFP