24 Jan 2012

CR IP TI ON BS SU

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Gaddafi diehards seize former regime bastion

Norway asked to return kids to Indian parents

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RABIA ALAWAL 1, 1433 AH

CEOs of BlackBerry maker Research In Motion resign

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Williams shocked at Australian Open

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EU raises stakes with oil embargo on Iran Iran steps up Hormuz threats • US carrier in Gulf

Egypt Islamists take centre stage CAIRO: Islamist MPs took centre stage yesterday as Egypt’s parliament met for the first time since a popular uprising ousted Hosni Mubarak, electing one of their own as speaker of the assembly. In their first act, the deputies in the Islamist-dominated lower house voted overwhelmingly for Saad Al-Katatni, a leading member of the powerful Muslim Brotherhood. A year after the uprising, many Egyptians see the new parliament as the first sign of democratic rule, in sharp contrast to the previous legislature dominated by Mubarak’s party. “We want to build a new Egypt, a constitutional, democratic and modern Egypt,” Katatni said in a speech after being sworn in.

“Democracy will be the source of our parliament’s power,” he added in remarks greeted with applause.

Egypt’s first free parliamentary elections, which were held in phases between November and early January, saw Islamists clinch nearly three-quarters of the seats. Katatni, 59, has been serving as the secretary general of the Freedom and Justice Party, the political arm of the once -banned Muslim Brotherhood, which won 47 percent of seats in the first free elections since the revolt. “We say to the Egyptian people and to the world that our revolution continues,” Katatni said to more applause.

Outside the People’s Assembly, hundreds of Islamist supporters greeted the MPs as they entered the parliament, in scenes unimaginable just a year ago when most Islamist movements were banned.

But the exact role of parliament remains unclear, with Continued on Page 13

CAIRO: Salafist lawmakers attend the first Egyptian parliament session yesterday after the revolution that ousted former President Hosni Mubarak. (Inset) Newly elected speaker Saad Al-Katatni of the Muslim Brotherhood salutes the parliament during the session. — AP/AFP

Vote-buying ‘rampant’ in all districts Hammad pulls out

By B Izzak

AL-RAM: A Palestinian vendor pushes his cart towards a section of Israel’s controversial separation barrier and past a banner that reads in Arabic ‘The Arab Spring Coffee Shop’ with crossed out images of former leaders (from left), Egypt’s Hosni Mubarak, Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi, Tunisia’s Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, Yemen’s Ali Abdullah Saleh and to the right current Syrian leader Bashar AlAssad in this West Bank town just outside Jerusalem yesterday. — AFP

Syria rejects League’s call for power change BEIRUT: Syria yesterday rebuffed as a “conspiracy” an Arab League call for President Bashar Al-Assad to step down in favour of a unity government to calm a 10-month-old revolt in which thousands of Syrians have been killed. Lebanese Foreign Minister Adnan Mansour criticised the League’s move, saying its ministers had taken an “unbalanced” approach to the crisis by disregarding violence per-

petrated by Assad’s opponents.

Damascus has not rejected the League’s decision to keep Arab observers in Syria one month longer, Mansour said, even though critics say their presence has not stemmed the bloodshed and only bought more time for Assad to crush his opponents. Many Syrians remain defiant, however.

Continued on Page 13

KUWAIT: Several candidates yesterday alleged widespread vote-buying has been taking place in all the five constituencies, with opposition candidates claiming the process was aimed at preventing their success and sending corrupt lawmakers to the next National Assembly. Leading liberal candidate and former MP Mohammad Jassem Al-Sager said he has filed a lawsuit against a woman who was allegedly buying votes for him, and insisted that he does not know the woman nor had he asked her to buy the votes.

Ex-opposition MP Mubarak Al-Waalan claimed that a leading personality has already issued three cheques worth close to KD 1 million to a person to buy votes to ensure that opposition candidates do not win, especially in the fourth electoral district.

Waalan vowed he will reveal the names of those involved if they do not stop. Leading Popular Bloc candidate and former MP Musallam Al-Barrak also claimed that vote-buying has become very rampant in all constituencies and called on the government to act.

Liberal candidate in the third constituency Mohammad Bushehri criticized the interior ministry for not taking any measure to curb vote-buying despite being informed by the election committee headed by the Kuwait Transparency Society. Bushehri Continued on Page 13

Max 15º Min 01º High Tide 13:27 Low Tide 06:27 & 18:11

BRUSSELS: The European Union and Iran raised the stakes yesterday in their test of wills over the Islamic republic’s nuclear program, with the bloc banning the purchase of Iranian oil and Iran threatening to retaliate by closing the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of the world’s crude is transported. The escalating confrontation is fraught with risks - of rising energy prices, global financial instability, and potential military activity to keep the strait open.

The EU’s 27 foreign ministers, meeting yesterday in Brussels, imposed an oil embargo against Iran and froze the assets of its central bank, ramping up sanctions designed to pressure Iranian officials into resuming talks on the country’s nuclear program. EU officials say the tighter sanctions are part of a carrotand-stick approach, an effort to increase pressure while at the same time emphasizing their willingness to talk.

In Washington, Department of State Secretar y Hillary Rodham Clinton and Catherine Ashton Department of the Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner welcomed the EU decision, calling it “another strong step in the international effort to dramatically increase the pressure on Iran.” In their joint statement, they said the EU sanctions, combined with earlier ones imposed by the US and the international community, ‘will sharpen the choice for Iran’s leaders and increase their cost of defiance of basic international obligations”.

Continued on Page 13

Year of Dragon roars in BEIJING: A billion-plus Asians welcomed the Year of the Dragon yesterday with a cacophony of fireworks, hoping the mightiest sign in the Chinese zodiac will usher in the wealth and power it represents. From Malaysia to South Korea, millions of people travelled huge distances to reunite with their families for Lunar New Year - the most important holiday of the year for many in Asia - indulging in feasts or watching dragon dances. As the clock struck midnight, Beijing’s skyline lit up with colour as families across the Chinese capital set off boxes and boxes of fireworks to ward off evil spirits in the new year - a scene repeated across the coun-

try. Pollution levels in the city, which has come under fire for its bad air quality, spiked in the early hours of yesterday morning as fireworks filled the skies with particulates, before falling back down again, official data showed.

North Koreans marked the Lunar New Year by laying flowers before portraits of late leader Kim Jong-Il and recollecting his “undying feats”, the official news agency reported. Those living in the Philippines were able to sleep in yesterday after the Lunar New Year became an official holiday for the first time, despite objections from some in the business community.

Continued on Page 13

SHANGHAI: Thousands of people visit a lantern festival to celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dragon yesterday. The lunar new year began yesterday and is the beginning of the Spring Festival holiday. — AFP (See Page 40)

in the

news

Gulf eyes roaming rate cut in region

Saudi female driver has fatal accident

DUBAI: Gulf Arab states aim to cut mobile phone roaming charges by at least 50 percent within the region by Feb 1, an official of the Gulf Cooperation Council said in a statement yesterday. Telecoms operators attending a meeting in Riyadh earlier this month committed themselves to applying the lower retail prices, Abdullah Al-Shibli, GCC assistant secretary general for economic affairs, said in the statement. The statement did not name the mobile firms at the meeting and did not give details of the new rates but said the meeting studied a decision “to reduce rates of international roaming between the GCC countries by more than 50 percent from current prices”. The GCC comprises Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates.

JEDDAH: A Saudi woman who defied a driving ban in the kingdom was injured and her companion killed when their car overturned in the northern Hael province, a police spokesman said yesterday. “One woman was immediately killed and her companion who was driving the car was hospitalised after she suffered several injuries” when their four-wheel-drive vehicle overturned late on Saturday, said police spokesman Abdulaziz AlZunaidi. There have been several incidents reported in recent years of women being killed in accidents while driving despite the ban. In Nov 2010, a Saudi who defied the driving ban was killed along with three of her 10 female passengers when her car overturned in a crash. A group of activists launched an Internet campaign last year urging Saudi women to defy the ban on driving.

A solar flare is seen erupting yesterday on the Sun’s northeastern hemisphere. Space weather officials say the strongest solar storm in more than six years is already bombarding Earth with radiation with more to come. — AP

Nigeria police find 100 bombs in Kano KANO, Nigeria: Nigerian police foiled fresh attacks in the northern city of Kano yesterday, discovering eight bomb-laden cars and over 100 unexploded devices around sites attacked last week. Kano was left reeling after bombs were set off and gun battles raged in a wave of coordinated attacks after Friday prayers that targeted mainly police buildings. “So far we have discovered over 100 homemade bombs in the operation we have launched in bomb recovery in different parts of the city,” said a senior police official. He said “lots of the unexploded bombs were recovered around the police headquarters” which was one of the targets struck in the deadly Friday attacks.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

LOCAL

Buthaina Al-Ibraheem

Dr. Tareq Suweidan (left) awarding one of the sponsors.

Homoud Al-Khudur. — Photos by Joseph Shagra

‘Me conference’ calls for reinvention of the self

By Nawara Fattahova KUWAIT: The Family Innovation Company is currently holding its 11th conference titled ‘Me, Soul, Brain, Emotion, and Body’ from Jan 22 to 26, at the Hawally Park. The conference is held under the auspices of Dr Abdullah Al-Mtouq, Consultant in the Amiri Diwan, and President of the International Islamic Charitable Organization. The proceeds of this conference will go for the betterment of Syria. “With the dramatic political situation in Syria, we feel it’s our duty to help our brothers there. We are one nation

so we have to support and help them,” said Buthaina Al-Ibraheem, Director General of Family Innovation Company during the launching ceremony held on Sunday at the Hawally Park.

The Family Innovation Company is holding conferences under different slogans every year. “These events have goals and we provide scientific programs to meet these goals. Many scientists and experts brought their ideas together to come up with these conferences. We already held 10 conferences in the past years and this is the 11th conference that focuses on human

aspects. I’m the human the soul, brain, emotion and body, and we search in the deep of Me, and call for a balance between its four pillars,” Al-Ibraheem elaborated.

“The word Me is usually misunderstood, serving a substitute for egotism. So we aim to correct the wrong understanding of Me, when many people made it the synonym of selfishness, conceitedness, narcissism and pride. Here we aim to give the Me its rights to speak about its abilities and express itself. We want to express the emotions, love, care, and morals inside Me. Through this conference we aim to make the bal-

anced personality,” she added.

The conference aims to strengthen certain morals of all age categories. “We aim to make the Me to respect the world, help the unjustified, care for family, participate in developing the community, and to live in harmony with others no matter what their beliefs or ideas. We aim to explain these issues and give solutions for related problems,” Al-Ibraheem pointed out.

Guests and speakers from different Arab countries came to participate in this conference. “I would like to thank the participants in this conference, the attendees, the

Candidates call for renovation of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area Golden Triangle initiative highlighted KUWAIT: Fourth Constituency candidates for the 2012 National Assembly elections called here yesterday for a much needed renovations project in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh area.

Candidate Majed Moussa said that an initiative, dubbed the Golden Triangle, was established by the municipal council in 1999 as a step to renovate the area, adding that it was time to implement such plan to help the infrastructure in that area.

The population of Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh is around 500,000, said the candidate, noting that such a number could not possibly occupy such small area; thus, an intervention was needed before any further harm would occur.

On the same subject, candidate Faraz Mohammad Al-Mutairi said that the Golden Triangle initiative, which originated from a

citizen's proposal, was thoroughly discussed by the municipal council and forwarded to Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs Dr Fahdel Safar.

Candidates Shuaib Al-Muwaizri, Ali AlDegbasi and Eid Al-Mutairi all agreed on the social and economic importance of the initiative, stressing it was time to implement serious steps to start renovating the area.

In September 2011, the cabinet agreed on launching the Golden Triangle initiative with the public and the private sectors in addition to property owners playing an integral part in the plan. The initiative aims at dividing Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh into six sectors that will provide educational, sports, and travel services to areas located near the Sixth Ring Road.

Meanwhile, Second Constituency candi-

date Jamaan Al-Herbesh asserted importance of developing political action through legislative reforms.

Al-Herbesh, at the inauguration of his campaign for the Feb 2 elections, said reforms would be carried out through adjusting laws to be compatible with Islamic sharia, approving anti-corruption laws and prevention of conflict of interest. Al-Herbesh called for protection of national unity and cracking down on "corrupted media."

Al-Herbesh, re-running in his constituency, highlighted importance of the independence of judiciary, improving quality of education, developing oil sector and creating lucrative investment environment.

Meanwhile, Jassem Al-Saqer from the same constituency urged the fine-tuning of

the foreign policy of Kuwait.

Al-Saqer, officially launching his campaign, said he wanted the next National Assembly to be "a solid parliament" honoring ambitions of the Kuwaiti people, fighting corruption and enforced development.

Al-Saqer called for the prevention of buying of votes. He urged all political forces to seek compromises for the sake of Kuwait.

Meanwhile, Thekra Al-Rashidi, a female candidate in the Fourth Constituency, called for giving women a greater role in the comprehensive development of Kuwait.

In an address to her voters, Al-Rashidi, a laywer, said the Kuwaiti people were facing a "dangerous pivotal turning point" thus voters should select the more appropriate candidates to represent them.—KUNA

sponsors, and other authorities who helped this conference to be successful,” she concluded. Participating artists and scientists were awarded by the organizers during the ceremony. Chanter Homoud Al-Khudur presented the chant of the conference. The conference also includes musical participation. On Thursday January 26 at 7:00pm, there will be musical event called ‘I’m Syria’ with the participation of five chanters from different countries in addition to a musical band. There will be symposiums held at the Hawally Park during the days of the conference.

Two more meningitis cases recorded KUWAIT: Informed sources revealed that two more cases of Meningitis patients have been admitted to Farwaniya Hospital. One of them is a Kuwaiti woman in her sixties and the other a Pakistani expat who is 37 years old. The Kuwaiti woman’s condition is critical and she is in the intensive care unit, while the Pakistani man is admitted in ward 27, room 8 and his condition is reportedly improving. In the meantime, a Kuwaiti woman in her 60’s died at Sabah Hospital after staying there for 5 days due to Meningitis disease, reported Al-Anbaa and Al-Shahed.

Meanwhile, Ministry Undersecretary of Health Dr Ibrahim Al-Abdul Hadi said that the ministry is making use of the election period to review some of its sectors and plans for improving them. He told reporters that several meetings were held to pinpoint sections that need development including laboratories and treatment abroad sections and others. The negative aspects in those sections were studied in an attempt to uplift the medical work, reported Al-Anbaa.

Interior affirms neutrality during elections KUWAIT: Ministry of Interior affirmed yesterday that it has been managing the electoral process since issuance of the Constitution in 1962, which tasked the police department at that time to manage the elections and granted it a number of powers to assist in performing the vital role with full accuracy and neutrality.

This came during a lecture, organized by the police school, entitled “the police role in managing electoral process,” which explained definitions of democracy, police relations with elections, and integrity of the electoral process.

The Ministry proved in every electoral process that it is at the level of the event, as it shouldered responsibility and performed its role successfully, Major Dr Talal Mullah Al-Yagout, said during the lecture.

Al-Yagout pointed out that during the elections, police forces should watch out for illegal acts and maintain neutrality, integrity, and not interfere with voters’ will, as well as not indulge into conversation with voters on who will they vote for, or try to direct them to vote for a specific candidate.

In the same context, Brigadier Shihab Al-Shammari, head of moni-

toring and inspection unit in the security committee for National Assembly elections 2012 and Head of the General Administration of Supervision and Inspection at the Ministry, said in a press statement yesterday that the unit’s mission is to inspect all police activities during the elections in accordance with operation room orders before and after the elections.

He added that inspection procedures would include all electoral sites and constituencies, as well as dealing immediately with any notification and work on preventing any negativities on ground. —KUNA

‘Frightening’ midterm exam results KUWAIT: While high school students anticipate the announcement of midterm results tomorrow (Wednesday), sources from the Ministry of Education(MoE) fear that shocking surprises are in store, in terms of anticipated success rates.

Students this year complained about tough mid-term examinations in which ‘incapacitating questions.’ were asked. Official MoE sources spoke about ‘deliberate actions’ taken within the ministry’s Public Education Department to create tests so as to reduce the number of high school graduates by the end of the school year. This is seen as a ‘solution’ to the KU’s overcapacity problem, which last

summer, left the ministry struggling to deal with thousands of graduates who have been left out after the country’s only public university reached its full capacity. Signs of suspicious ministry procedures emerged even before the start of the school year when an announcement was made to count 90 percent of student GPA, based on test results taken throughout the year. “The MoE is leading a miserable situation in which hasty decisions are being taken without assessing repercussions that directly affect students and their future,” a concerned official said.

According to preliminary reports, only 50 percent of high school students in the Arts department passed

philosophy exams, while 58 percent students in the scientific stream passed mathematics exams. These rates would be shocking considering the over 90 percent success rate registered last year. Sources confirmed what several students complained about four questions asked in the maths test were out of syllabus.

On Sunday, Minister of Education and Minister of Higher Education Ahmad Al-Mulaifi chaired a meeting of top MoE officials, during which discussions were made on the possibility of creating a department for examinations to evaluate tests, creating up a ‘bank’ of questions covering all subjects. — Al-Qabas

KUWAIT: Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Khaled Al-Jarallah received yesterday Abdulaziz Yusuf Hamza, the Chairman of the GCC Emergency Management Centre. During the meeting, the officials discussed preparations and equipment needed by the emergency center, which will be based in Kuwait. The center will be established according to the latest precautions taken in regard to disasters and crises management.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

local

PR Congress to discuss Arab Spring, economic slump, Iran Dubai to host big gathering

By Ben Garcia

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah received yesterday the envoy of Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah and the delegation accompanying him. Their presence is to offer on the behalf of Qatari Emir’s condolences to HH the Amir, HH the CP and Al-Sabah family, on the passing away of Sheikh Saud Nasser Al-Saud Al-Sabah.

Tributes to Sheikh Saud KUWAIT: Ministr y of Information Undersecretary Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah expressed deep sorrow over the loss of former oil and information minister Sheikh Saud Nasser Al-Sabah.

“Kuwait lost a man who loved his country faithfully and with great sincerity. He impressed the world when he defended Kuwait with all his strength and determination,” Sheikh Salman said in a press release.

“Sheikh Saud’s words under the roof of the international organization were stronger than weapons”. He added that the late Sheikh Saud played a major role during the Kuwaiti invasion in 1990.

Although, he added, Sheikh Saud left his post as minister of information, yet his imprint and legacy in Kuwaiti media and information distribution are evident to this day.

He was able to develop the Ministry of Information in all of its sectors, as well as the Ministry of Oil during the hardest times, he confirmed.

Kuwaiti Journalist Association (KJA) expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Sheikh Saud. Secretary General of KJA Faisal Al-Qinaie, in a press release, expressed on behalf of KJA members and himself, deepest condolences to Al-Sabah family on their loss.

In his statement, Al-Qinaie reviewed Sheikh Saudís distinguished efforts towards the Kuwaiti media and journalism, especially when he took the responsibility of the Ministry of Information. In addition to his role in supporting the KJAís position during

the attempts to move the headquarters of the Federation of Arab Journalists from Baghdad to Cairo during the invasion in 1990.

Furthermore, Al-Qinaie continued to review the late Sheikh Saudís role in the development of media work and his encouragement to Kuwaiti media and journalists, as well as his memorable national positions during his post as Kuwaitís ambassador to the United States, which contributed to the liberation of Kuwait.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Culture and Information Dr Abdulaziz Khoja expressed Saudi Arabia’s deep sorrow, specifically the Saudi media, over the loss of Sheikh Saud Nasser AlSabah.

Over the phone with Kuwaiti Minister of Information Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah, Saudi Minister Khoja reviewed the achievements of the late ex-Information and Oil Minister Sheikh Saud Nasser Al-Sabah.

“We will never forget the efforts carried out by the deceased when he was the Kuwaiti minister of information in the consolidation of the ties of kinship and good relations between the two brotherly peoples of Saudi Arabia and Kuwait,” Khoja said.

He added that the death of Sheikh Saud, is a loss to all Gulf-state and Arab politicians, where they lost “a sophisticated political icon.” On his part, Sheikh Hamad Al-Sabah expressed heartfelt gratitude for the warm sentiments, adding that such feelings are a result of the close relationship between the two neighboring countries.— KUNA

KUWAIT: Arab Spring, global economic crisis and ‘probably’ Iran-issue with the West are just few of many subjects that will be tackled during the 20th Public Relations World Congress (PRWC) to be held in Dubai from March 13 to 15.

It was announced yesterday at a press conference held at the JW Marriott in Kuwait City, attended by Faisal Al-Zahrani, President of International Public Relations Association (IPRAGC) and Vice President-Kuwait, Etidal Al-Ayyar.

The world congress is the biggest gathering of people who are in the field of Public Relations from all over the world to brainstorm on the latest trends and challenges facing the PR industry.

Faisal Al Zahrani, IPRA-GC President, noted that the extra-ordinary conference is going to take place in an extra-ordinary city Dubai at an extraordinary time.

“Since the congress will be taking place in Dubai, we cannot avoid the subject such as the Arab Spring, global economic crisis and Iran issue,” Al-Zahrani admitted when asked if recent development in the Middle East will be discussed as well. The event according to AlZahrani, is not only the gathering of PR industry people but also a real opportunity for education.

He expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President & Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for supporting and patronizing the event. “With the Governments of the UAE and Dubai extending their support, we can be confident that this important and prestigious event is getting off to the best possible start, and will be a huge success. We expect over 500 people in attendance from all over the world, most especially from the Gulf area,” he said.

Public Relations World Congress is a biennial event started in 1955 at Brussels, Belgium. The

world congress is important for the Middle East, as it is the first time to be held outside Europe and the Americas. “We are happy about the development. This is historic in the Middle East.

We expect attendance of PR students this time, because there are companies willing to sponsor their expenses. We will look into that carefully.

But among other things, PR people can expect high-profile keynote speakers to give them the lecture and we arranged their participation already,” he added. Al-Zahrani also hoped to achieve several objectives, including sharing knowledge and information and looking at the future of PR industry. “We try to raise people’s awareness and promote the importance of public relations. We are also going to discuss on how the government, companies connect to their audiences and answer the role of public rela-

KUWAIT: Faisal Al-Zahrani and Etidal Al-Ayyar during a press conference yesterday at JW Marriott, Kuwait City.—Photo by Joseph Shagra

Citizen in custody for trying to kill officers

By Hanan Al-Saadoun

KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior(MoI) announced that the citizen who tried to kill two senior officials with his car has been arrested. He was nabbed from a car wash station. The incident occurred while Ahmadi Traffic Director Col Salman Sultan Al-Mized and Ismail Hussain Ashkanani tried to prevent the man from harassing a Kuwaiti family near Awqaf Complex. The suspect’s car was identified with its plate number and details. He ran the car over officers who tried to stop him. The driver, reportedly the miscreant’s brother was later arrested and a case was registered against him. The two officers have been admitted to Al-Razi Hospital for treatment.

Traffic accident A 60-year-old Indian was injured during a car accident near Keifan area. He was taken to Amiri Hospital.

A Kuwaiti and a Pakistani, both 22

years old, were injured during a car accident in Shuwaikh. Both were taken to Sabah Hospital.

A 25-year-old Kuwaiti sustained head injuries and was admitted to Amiri Hospitalís ICU, while a 21- year- old sustained a broken right hand during a motorcycle accident in Daeya.

Two Kuwaitis were injured when a car hit them in Sharq area. Both were taken to Amiri Hospital.

A 31-year-old Kuwaiti sustained a broken right thigh bone during a car accident in Abu Halifa. He was taken to Adan Hospital.

A 33-year-old Afghani sustained a broken left thigh bone during a car accident on Subiya road. He was taken to Jahra Hospital.

A 30-year-old Indian suffered a cardiac arrest, while two Sri Lankans in their late forties sustained various injuries during a car accident near the scrap yard in Amghara. They were taken to Farwaniya Hospital.

Ministry report finds accusations groundless

KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Youth and Sports Director Faisal AlJazzaf recently met with Dr Khalifa Behbehani, Dean of Student activities at Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, and his assistant Khalid Al-Oraifan to discuss maintaining cooperation between the two authorities.

Lawyer challenges demonstration law KUWAIT: The Criminal Court adjourned on Sunday a case in which 17 bedoon residents were charged with staging illegal demonstration in Sulaibiya, setting March 4 as the next hearing session.

In a notable move, defense attorney Fawziya Al-Sabah forwarded an appeal during Sunday’s hearing to challenge the constitutionality of the law which bars public demon-

strations held by non-Kuwaitis. Al-Sabah argued that the law not only violates Kuwait’s Constitution - which doesn’t specifically mention that Kuwaitis are barred from holding illegal demonstrations- but also the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. She argued that bedoon demonstrations were peaceful, and were staged at an open square in Al-Jahra, not posing a threat to public security. —Al-Rai

KUWAIT: A team from the Foreign Ministry has prepared an extensive report regarding the accusations raised by the ex MP Musallam AlBarrak against Sheikh Nasser AlMohammad Al-Sabah before dissolving NA council, sources revealed.

The comprehensive report also examines the factors that led to the dissolution of the government and more importantly about some suspected transfers made through the Foreign Ministry. The report concluded that all accusations are groundless and incorrect and the controversial transfers are transparent.

Sources added that the foreign ministry’s detailed report contains factors about what was raised in NA council about money transfer to embassies abroad, which is the base

tions in achieving successful public dialogues,” he opined.

Congress Solutions International (CSI) part of Emirates Airlines Group has been appointed as the event management partner for the event.

More than 500 delegates from across the world are expected to attend the Congress to be held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai, which will include several sessions centered on three broad themes: ‘Political Change & Public Relations,’ ‘Restoring Trust: The Media & The Message,’ and ‘Next Practices: Communications in the Digital Age.’ The last Public Relations World Congress was held in 2010 in Lima, Peru, and attended by industry representatives from 39 while the 2008 Public Relations World Congress was held in Beijing, China. For more details about the conference please visit: www.prwcdubai.com

of the grilling that was planned against His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al Mohammad and Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah, ex foreign minister.

The report was prepared after lengthy examinations for transfers made jointly with a legal and auditing team and have reached the conclusion that the accusations made by some of the ex MPs are incorrect.

Sources added that foreign ministry wanted to make sure of this subject in order to be ready in case if the topic is opened for discussion again in future. The ministry is sure that there is no suspicious elements about the transfers and there is no violations made. The transfers were made in accordance with the ministry regulations, Al-Shahed quoted a ministry source in its report.

News

in brief

Extreme cold this week KUWAIT: An extremely cold period commonly known in Kuwait as “Izairig”, will start today and will continue until the end of the month, according to astronomer Adel Al-Saadoun. The last eight days of January are the coldest, when comparing to the remainder of the month, he said. The term, Izairig, which means blue in the local Kuwaiti dialect, was applied due to the color of people’s skin during the short extreme seasonal period.

1.5 fire incidents per hour KUWAIT: An average of 1.5 fire incidents took place every hour in Kuwait during the past year, according to a news report published yesterday quoting official statistics from the Kuwait Fire Services Directorate(KFSD). According to KFSD Public Relations and Media Director, Lieutenant Colonel Khalil Al-Amir, a total of 13,414 fires were recorded in 2011, with an average of 36 fire incidents taking place a day.

Statistics show that in November alone, firefighters dealt with 998 fires in Kuwait, in which 18 people died and 103 were injured. The report states that 108 of these fires were caused by electric short circuits, while 246 took place in Farwaniya.

Safety of French beef KUWAIT: The Kuwait Municipality’s food safety committee discussed with French officials on Monday the safety of beef and poultry imports from France. This comes after Kuwait in mid-December, last year, lifted a ban imposed on the import of these meats from France. The ban was imposed following the outbreak of diseases affecting the animals such as bird flu and mad cow disease. The discussions, held between the French side and Director of the Imported Foods division, who is the Deputy Director of Food Safety, Istiqlal Al-Musallam, focused on France’s measures to combat the diseases.

Kuwait sponsorship system KUWAIT: Sources at the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor(MSAL) said that a meeting was held between the ministries of Social Affairs, Interior and Foreign ministry to discuss proceedings related to recruitment, adding that sponsorship system’s cancellation cannot be implemented now as clear steps have not been taken. Sources pointed out that ministry should propose a study to the Council of Ministers, giving suggestions to be implemented and legislations be made concerning expats before demanding that the sponsorship system be cancelled. There are ex MPs who are opposed to the move and even worked toward canceling it , considering it a step that will lead to a bigger problem.

Human development report to reveal priorities KUWAIT: Aims of national human development reports are to achieve national consensus on the fundamentals of the issue and to increase transparency indicators in the country, said Kuwait’s minister of commerce and industry yesterday.

Dr Amani Bouresli, who is also the State Minister for Planning and Development, made the remark on the fringes of the first meeting of the National Human Development Report Consultative Board.

Kuwait, through the move, also hopes to establish an official reference that international organizations could benefit from, she added. The report, which will thus far be conducted biennially, will focus on issues such as development, population, housing, the civil society and the national fabric, among others. The report is to be conduct-

ed by the state employees, with help enlisted from the UN Development Program (UNDP), while the local statistics office has been brought on board to provide necessary information.

The process will take around 9-11 months to complete, with its first phase being to construct a general draft, said the minister. The second phase, which begins in March ending in August, includes the preparation of the document - with the aid of the UNDP - for the final draft to be dispatched to the UN head office in New York for revision.

This is not the first time Kuwait has embarked on such a move, as it had issued two reports in 1997 and 1999 respectively, explained Director General of the Arab Planning Institute, Bader Malallah. —KUNA

KUWAIT: Hawally municipality inspectors launched an inspection campaign on several food stores, butcher shops and restaurants. The campaign resulted in the destruction of one ton and 486kg of spoiled meat, and the store is in the process of being shut down. Head of the emergency team in Hawally Riyadh Al-Rabee said the campaigns will continue against violators in all fields. Al-Rabee said the meat was originally frozen, but the food company was trying to sell it as fresh.—Photos by Hanan Al-Saadoun

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

LOCAL kuwait digest

kuwait digest

One alarming question

Idiotic ideologies

By Iqbal Al-Ahmad

By Dr Abdullatif Al-Suraikh

W

I

received several comments on a previous article in which I addressed the issue of water and electricity waste in Kuwait. All of them agreed that necessary measures are needed to conserve energy. One reply contained notable information, saying that a kilowatt of electricity that costs the government around 20 fils approximately for production, is sold for two fils only. This means that the government pays 18 fils for every kilowatt produced in Kuwait every day. Moreover, that e-mail indicates that producing one imperial gallon of desalinated water costs Kuwait KD3.5 approximately, but is sold to consumers for only 800 fills.

henever you try to explain balance of power in global political system, there are always people who are going to tell you about how our countries are targeted by the West since the Crusades. Whenever you talk about the importance of sustainable development, chances are you’re going to end up hearing someone talking about the history of the Safavid dynasty and alleged ambitions to take over the region as if we are still living in the dark ages.

A kilowatt of electricity that costs the government around 20 fils approximately for production, is sold for two fils only. This means that the government pays 18 fils for every kilowatt produced in Kuwait every day.

I don’t believe that the majority of the public are unaware to realize the value of electricity and water they waste every day - not when streams of water flow from citizens’ homes after the mandatory morning car washing, or when lights are turned on all night long. Given the lack of public awareness that is usually connected to long-term campaigns, energy will be wasted unless something is done that directly affects people’s pockets.

The subsidy rates mentioned above were placed at a time in which Kuwait’s population was people less than its current population, while oil was the main form of energy that the world knew. These rates remained the same despite the boom in population, and advancement in scientific research to develop alternatives for oil - something that can reduce oil prices that cripple the state’s ability to cover all energy consumption expenses.

Sami Al-Ibrahim suggested in an earlier column that new legislations were enforced, according to which stricter penalties are issued against people that refuse to waste electricity or water! He calls for monitoring domestic helpers who usually wash cars and home yards or water plants.

Unfortunately, any step to increase electricity and water consumption fees are going to be met with public rejection - similar to any other proposal by which people’s pockets are affected. This is helped by the fact that people are not aware of the risk due to the lack of media strategies.

Of course, it is necessary to introduce the practice of ‘conservation’ and instill it in children’s minds. This process must be accompanied by campaigns to make parents also aware of it. This is because a child will not be able to understand the value of electricity and water when they see them wasted every day.

Introducing consumption fee rates, combined by educational awareness program as well as steps to use electricity and water saving technologies in public places could be effective to achieve good results within five years. Occasional warnings through the media has not helped curb rising consumption rates.

Ibrahim mentioned in his e-mail, a very important question, which is: What if the Gulf becomes too polluted to the point where water becomes unsuitable for desalination? Think about this alarming question carefully. — Al-Qabas

kuwait digest

Ask them why

By Abdullatif Al-Duaij

P

rime Minister His Highness Sheikh Jaber AlMubarak Al-Sabah gave his word during a meeting with the state’s economic consultative committee recently that the government will work toward curbing spending and review the current spending policy. His statements were made in line with recommendations put forward by the committee - founded by HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Sabah on Kuwait’s economic and social situation. These recommendations mainly warn against the state facing an imminent budget deficit if the government retains its current spending policy.

There are more than 300 candidates contesting the 2012 parliamentary elections. Today, these candidates address almost everything during their campaign, even discussing theft, corruption and fraud accusations against the government, under the pretext of defending rights.

What these ‘brave’ candidates failed to discuss in their seminars, however, are the recommendations put forward by the economic committee’s report, or the promises that the prime minister made on government spending.

“The government can no longer continue with the current consumer spending policy,” the prime minister said. Parliament candidates, who invite political experts to discuss local issues, have failed to talk about the government’s future economic policies as per the committee’s recommendations. It is as if candidates are not concerned with the subject or that they are not running in Kuwait whose prime minister confirmed that bankruptcy is an imminent fate for the country, if current governmental spending policies continue.

To be more specific, only former MP Ahmad AlNufaisi elaborated on this subject and dangers of current spending rates. Maybe he did so because he is not running for parliamentary elections.

While all candidates continue to criticize and accuse the government ‘courageously,’ they avoid addressing a governmental decision that directly affects voters and their future. Is there any voter who can ask respective candidates why they choose to ignore this subject? — Al-Qabas

kuwait digest

Soft Power in the age of globalization

By Dr Mohammed Hasanen, Assistant Professor, Political Science, GUST

I

n the early nineties of 20th century, the Cold War that lasted for forty years ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Many former Soviet republics left the union. It was a happy moment for President George Bush when he declared the victory of the United States in this war. Eventually, the whole world entered a new era.

In early 1950s, Cold War began between two powers — the Soviet Union which led the Eastern socialist bloc and the United States which was the leader of the democratic Western bloc. Historically speaking, this war is unprecedented. It is the first time in military history that a war did not involve the armed forces. It is true that other countries’ land were battlefields for indirect confrontation. For instance, during the sixties, the United States was forced to withdraw from Vietnam. The support of Soviet Union and China was the major reason behind the US defeat in Vietnam War. In the 1980s, the American CIA played the same role and backed the Mujahedeen (freedom fighters) in Afghanistan against the Soviet Union.

The Western bloc did not win the war through military means but only as a soft power. Soft power could be defined as inspiring or repelling other actors to do what you want. This power enables the power holder to control others without using hard power or coercion. Soft power is used to attract, motivate, and influence rather than dictate. This was obvious in the Cold War. American media, conferences and even American movies and TV series were effective tools in changing Eastern bloc people’s attitudes and beliefs. Soft power was included in Western and American rhetorical support for democracy and human rights.

It is obvious that these tools are useful.

During the second half of the 20th century, Western culture has become popular in the world.

Western clothing styles, music and even fast food has spread everywhere. The communist red color has almost disappeared from the world map. This phenomenon could explain why East European states joined the Western military and economic organizations, and began the process of democratization in almost no time in the 1990s and afterwards. They were seeking democracy to imitate Western culture. They were convinced that this culture is noble and brings the best for their future.

The consequences and ramifications of the Cold War are profound.

It is safe enough to say that the World has dramatically changed after this war. New political and economic facts have come forward. Geographic maps and borders have changed. New states have emerged and others have disappeared. The ideological conflicts were replaced by the clash of civilizations. Globalization is another significant new concept that has complicated world politics and shifted our attention to the importance of soft power.

Media, art and culture have never

been as powerful tools as they are in the world today. Governmental controls over their borders have been reduced to the minimum.

Skies are open and Internet became a forum for people all over the world. People became active in political, economic and cultural changes. In the era of globalization, soft power became more appealing to many political actors.

Invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan

by American and Allied troops have proved that coercion and military power are not enough to convert both countries to democracy.

Economic and political sanctions as negative soft power tools, however, have failed to deal with terrorism.

The Western bloc did not win the war through military means but only as a soft power. Soft power could be defined as inspiring or repelling other actors to do what you want. This power enables the power holder to control others without using hard power or coercion. Soft power is used to attract, motivate, and influence rather than dictate. This was obvious in the Cold War. Unfortunately, while the Middle East is in the heart of world concerns, its government and authorities have no intention to use or develop their soft powers. In the mean time, the impact of Western soft power on the Middle Eastern societies is overwhelming. During the last decade, two countries have been invaded and Western culture and languages are gradually replacing local cultures, and to some extent Arabic language.

Most of the governments in the region are dealing with these new developments with apathy.

Instead of trying to improve and strengthen their soft powers, many national actors are taking defensive positions. The Islamists for instance, have limited the issue within one domain. They believe that Islam is targeted and the West is penetrating the Islamic societies by all means to weaken and defeat Islam. Whatever the validity of the conspiracy theory , most of the Islamists are using it as an excuse to not carry any responsibility. In addition, fundamentalists are degrading the reputation of Islam when they terrorize innocents and civilians. While others know and

define their national interests very clearly, our national interests are vague. Moreover, we used to blame them for achieving their national interests claiming that they were being nationalistic and planning only for their own good.

Other national actors believe that we are facing a cultural invasion. One can argue that the reality is that Arab businessmen are travelling to the East and to the West to bring cultural and technological products. They do their best to market these products in their society and among the youth even if they do not fit their values and culture.

It is time now to understand that the World is moving forward.

Middle Eastern governments have to understand that having soft power is important as hard power, if we like to be respected. While, soft power is very important, it is reasonable and is not costly.

Soft power will work efficiently in case the following requirements are fulfilled: First: Having faith in the importance of the soft power is essential.

This faith should motivate us to develop arts, creative works, education and scientific research. Soft power will maintain our identity and culture. The Islamic world during the glorious age was not great thanks to its large geographic areas but because of its dominant culture. Islamic spirit was behind the development of scientific research. Scientists, writers, and artists were respected regardless of their ethnic or religious backgrounds. This spirit and values have led to the flourishing of Islamic civilization.

Second: Political vision and determination help improve and develop the soft power. Soft power cannot be developed unless the states realize that the danger has reached our homes, our young people and is threatening our future. Hence, setting aside a low budget for scientific researches and education will not achieve improvement and development. A quick look at the numbers of Israeli scientific researches published in international peer reviewed journals as compared to our scientific articles will show how huge the gap is between us and our enemies. We have to admit that not only has the Israeli army defeated us, but they have soft power too. Without any exaggeration, the situation in our states is becoming risky. Our identity, our lands, our fortune or even our history will be lost if we do not take a serious stance.

Third: Public participation in the era of globalization gives individuals everywhere chance to make a difference. No one will be able to marginalize the individuals’ roles in any society. Popular journalism, public diplomacy and public forums on the Internet become very effective in putting pressure on the governments. People should take an initiative and demand more attention to all soft power. Finally, governments generate the tone of change and people make it.

Look around you and see how civilizations are created. A country cannot make a civilization by being in constant case of fear and animosity towards others, but instead by seeking knowledge, technology, cooperation and understanding to the canons of life.

Civilizations are not built on destroying others, but on realizing that people are meant to be different, yet share similar interests based on which a productive way of life can be built.

If you try to open a debate online about the importance of national unity, fundamentalists are likely going to be fast to post footage showing people who deliberately or unintentionally offend followers of the opposite sectarian group, as if we are destined to live in eternal struggle. Even if you bring up examples about other countries whose people learned to coexist despite their numerous religions and beliefs, people with fundamentalist view will likely still prefer to spread more division into our already disintegrated societies.

The people I am talking about are those whose ideologies are controlled by conspiracy theories; mainly the one in which they believe that the entire world is focusing efforts to take control over our capabilities. It’s like we are completely helpless as we watch the West ‘tear our countries apart and reshape our geographical distribution the way they desire’.

Not only is it idiotic to have this kind of ideology, but it’s also the way of thinking that someone with no willpower often has. This way of thinking is found in societies where people convince themselves that they are unable to be influential or create a reality that sets an example to be followed.

Look around you and see how civilizations are created. A country cannot make a civilization by being in constant case of fear and animosity towards others, but instead by seeking knowledge, technology, cooperation and understanding to the canons of life. Civilizations are not built on destroying others, but on realizing that people are meant to be different, yet share similar interests based on which a productive way of life can be built. A way of life that is different than our current miserable reality which is based on heresies of fundamentalists, racists and idiots.

I apologize for my choice of words, but I couldn’t find better expressions to describe those who continue to spread venom through our already ailing body. — Al-Rai

kuwait digest

Personality quirks

By Thaar Al-Rashidia

A

n aged man in his seventies told me once, “Son, a generous thief is better than a miserly honest man.” Although I didn’t agree with him then, I learnt through personal experience that what he said was partially right. I know that generosity and theft don’t go hand in hand; the legendary Robin Hood story being an exception.

I recently met up with a prominent figure who is known to be strict and law- abiding, but is parsimonious. He is very efficient and works hard, but thanks to his miserliness, people kept away from him. Had he donated all his money to the Housing Authority here, they would be able to build another city with it!

To be a leader, whether you are a minister, undersecretary , assistant undersecretary, director or even a prime minister is a wonderful ability.

However, generosity and miserliness are parts of your personality, which will remain with you all your life. Sadly, you will be referred to as such, even after you die.

Another influential leader I know is involved in a lot of corruption related cases. He, however, is famous for his generosity, and is well-liked. His faithful followers are even ready to tolerate his flaws!

I repeat the old man’s words though I don’t agree with it. As it is not possible to have either a generous thief or an honest miser, why can’t we have someone who is strictly generous and honest? This personality quirk can solve many matters. — Al-Anbaa

5

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Local

Vote buying on the rise in all constituencies Women mostly targeted KUWAIT: In the run up to elections, a news report appeared yesterday stating that ‘vote buying activities’ are taking place in all constituencies. The report also states that legal actions ‘backed up with evidence’ are being taken regarding such activities. Notably enough, the report suggests that while vote buying is not new in Kuwait’s election history, the problem is characterized by the fact that female voters are mostly targeted. “Vote buying incidents are on the rise,” sources warn.

“We have male and female candidates that hire people whose job is to prepare lists of voters who agree to sell votes.” “ The hired ‘employees’ collect citizens’ passports that sold votes to the candidates they represent, and hand them back on election day,” sources added.

Also, the Supreme Judicial Council has designated 480 members in the state’s judiciary

scene to take part in observing the elections process on Feb 2, said an official source.

Speaking to Al-Qabas on condition of anonymity, the source noted that a committee was formed comprising employees in education, justice and communication ministries.

Their job is to prepare all requirements in schools where balloting will take place, reported Al-Qabas.

Speaking of vote buying, Fourth Constituency candidate and former MP Musallam Al-Barrak said recently that the same constituency features “the dirt of vote buying process” compared to other constituencies, claiming that this process is run by four individuals. Al-Barrak called the Ministry of Interior to keep a close eye on activities like “setting dates with female citizens to sell their votes inside hospitals.”

In the meantime, Fourth Constituency can-

didate and former MP Mubarak Al-Walan said that he has photocopies of checks that were paid by three individuals as bribes “to damage chances of honorable candidates.” Al-Walan threatened to expose them if these suspects continued their illegal action, reported Rai. In other news, 29 candidates for the 2012 parliamentary elections signed a so-called ‘Kuwaiti Environment Sustainability Charter,’ announced environmental activist and Municipal Council member Jenan Bushehri.

Bushehri had announced this charter a week ago in cooperation with environmental activist Khalid Al-Mutawaa. It was created in cooperation with the United Nation Development Program (UNDP), and promotes enforcement of environment protection draft laws already put on hold at the Parliament, legislating laws that encourage environmental and eco-friendly investments in Kuwait. —Al-Qabas

Eight more pull out of race KUWAIT: Eight candidates running for Kuwait’s 2012 National Assembly elections withdrew from the race yesterday. The candidates are Mohammad Sanad Abdullah Sughair Al-Shamiri (Second Constituency), Ahmad Mohammad Ali Ibrahim Al-Baddah (Third Constituency), Sadoun Hammad Obaid Mizel Badah Al-Otaibi (Third Constituency), Soud Doais Soud Salem Al-Rajhi (Fourth Constituency), Ali Jaber Salem Al-Mikhlef Al-Dhafiri (Fourth Constituency), Salal Mohammad Khashman Mohsen AlHarbi (Fourth Constituency), Faisal Mutlaq Mohammad Hajar Al-Azmi (Fifth Constituency) and Nahar Thigel Nahar Mutlaq Al-Otaibi (Fifth Constituency). The elections will take place on Feb 2, while the window for withdrawing one’s candidacy will be open until Jan 25. —KUNA

‘stability

KUWAIT: Customs officers at Kuwait International Airport foiled an attempt to smuggle three kilograms of marijuana that were concealed in plastic jars. Ibrahim Al-Ghanim, Director of Kuwait Customs Department took the initiative to nab the Asian suspect. He was referred to concerned authorities. — Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun

charter’

KUWAIT: Candidate from the First Constituency Fahad AlMasoud announced that he has signed a so-called ‘national stability charter’ along with another candidate; committing to address anti-corruption laws as well as social, educational, health, security and housing issues. “It is commendable that young citizens to devise such a charter is evident in the commitment to elect reliable candidates during upcoming elections. Signing the charter, proves commitment to implement articles as top priority if elected so as to achieve stability in the political scene,” AlMasoud. “Citizens are tired of the empty promises about improving conditions in Kuwait,” he said. “[Kuwaitis] demand radical solutions to problems in the health, housing, education, and traffic fields, in addition to unemployment.”

KUWAIT: Information Minister Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali Al-Sabah attended yesterday a ceremony held by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the inauguration of AlMubarakiya School, the first school in Kuwait’s modern history. The event saw official opening of a museum at the premises of the historic school.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

local

KUWAIT: The Police Officers Club held its third spring camp recently for club members and their families, who enjoyed an entertaining program featuring competitions and other events.

Citizen found dead

By Hanan Al-Saadoun KUWAIT: A citizen was found dead in a camp at Salmi under mysterious circumstances. The body of the man, in his forties, was removed for an autopsy.

Sexual assault A citizen was detained for four days after one of his students claimed that

he sexually assaulted him. The students’ father reported to Mubarak AlKabeer police that he saw obscene messages on his son’s mobile phone.

The 14-year-old told his father that the messages were sent by his teacher.

Doctors reported that the boy has been repeatedly assaulted. The report has not stated that the source of assault was committed by one person.

KUWAIT: Sheikh Nimr Al-Malik Al Sabah, assistant undersecretary for foreign commerce and industry at the Burgan Bank booth with representatives from the bank during the exhibition.

Burgan Bank sponsors ‘2012 HORECA Exhibition’ KUWAIT: Burgan Bank recently participated as a Gold sponsor in the widely recognized hospitality and food exhibition “HORECA 2012”, which is being held at the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel.

The comprehensive event, organized by the Leaders Group for Consulting & Development covered the hospitality, catering as well as the food industry sectors in Kuwait across the GCC. Burgan Bank’s participation stems from the objective of diversifying its footprint across different industry sectors. ‘Horeca

2012 ‘served as a beneficial platform to introduce new products in the hospitality and food service industry while also creating investment opportunities that help build this sector in Kuwait. Burgan Bank continues to take an active role in participating across leading exhibitions and events which serve as a strong platform to benefit from opportunities and to support the development of various industry sectors. The bank believes in enhancing crucial sectors that serve as key components in the construction of a modern economy.

Four-member gang held for desert camps thefts Drunk driver found near oil facility KUWAIT: Ahmadi investigators arrested four suspects responsible for committing multiple thefts targeting camps in Mina Abdullah desert. Police cast suspicions on a car that was being driven erratically near a camp site.

After asking to be pulled over, police arrested its Asian driver when he admitted to stealing electric appliances that were found in his vehicle. He divulged information about three other accomplices who were later arrested.

The suspects admitted responsibility for committing nine separate thefts, after which they sold the stolen items in Fahaheel. They remain in custody pending further action.

Drunk driver Mina Abdullah police officers arrested a driver who was found heavily intoxicated near an oil facility. Patrol officers cast their suspicions on a car that was parked at the facility’s parking spot. Upon approaching it, they learnt that the man at the helm of the vehicle was drunk. An empty bottle of homemade liquor was also found in the vehicle. The suspect, identified as an unemployed man, was referred to proper authorities.

Home burgled Police are seeking a domestic worker who

is believed to have disappeared after stealing thousands of dinars from her employer’s home in Al-Adan. Police headed to the crime scene after a citizen reported that KD 10,000 in cash was stolen from the safe. The man told officers that his Asian domestic worker was missing, leading him to believe that she is responsible for committing the crime.

Moreover, the man argued that the maid’s husband, who visited her often, could probably have convinced her into committing the crime. Investigations into the case are ongoing.

Official injured A senior Interior Ministry official was hospitalized after being hit and run by a reckless driver in Al-Sawaber. The suspect reportedly harassed a Kuwaiti family at a local market when Director of Al-Ahmadi Traffic Department Colonel Salman Al-Mezal, was there at the time responded to the family’s call for help. Immediately after identifying himself and showing his badge, Col Al-Mezal was run over by the suspect who immediately drove away. The senior official was rushed in an ambulance to Al-Amiri Hospital where he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

Investigations are currently ongoing.

Stab victim An Egyptian man was hospitalized after sustaining several stab wounds that were sustained from thugs who harassed his sister. The 23-year-old victim rushed down from the first-floor apartment after hearing his 20-yearold sister seek help. The girl was reportedly picking up items from her car when three suspects in a traditional Kuwaiti attire harassed her sexually. The man immediately engaged in a fight with his sister’s harassers, who left him with three stab wounds to his abdomen.

The victim was rushed in an ambulance to AlFarwaniya Hospital while the incident was reported to police. Investigations are currently ongoing.

Murder threat Salwa police are looking into a case filed by a citizen living in the area, accusing his neighbor of attempted murder. In his statements to officers at the area’s police station, the citizen explained that his neighbor stormed his diwaniya and engaged in a heated conversation with him over unsettled disputes. He reportedly threatened him with murder. An order was issued to summon the suspect for investigations.— Al-Rai, Al-Anba, Al-Watan

Food prices prospects in 2012 bleak KUWAIT: Prices of food are forecast to rise around five percent across the world throughout this year due to diverse factors such as predicted increase of oil prices and shrinking resources, said Chairman of Traders and Manufacturers Association.

Locally, the prices of food will increase because Kuwait imports most of its needs for food and other consumer products, said AlBuaijan. Global market condi-

tions, along with other factors such as prospected rise of cost of transportation and food preservation will be some of the main causes of the forecast rise of the food prices.

Rise of oil prices undoubtedly affects the cost of good production, he said. It also prompts farmers to shift to fuel-producing crops as an alternative to fossil fuel, he forecast.

Citing other factors for his

bleak forecast, Al-Buaijan mentioned worsening weather conditions and rain scarcity that particularly affect the agriculture, namely production of cereals in the United States and Europe.

Based on data of FAO, the Food and Agriculture Organization, prices of food in regional countries may jump by 10-20 percent, thus inflation will rise.

Shifting again to the domestic level, Al-Buaijan said merchants

have already been informed about rise of the prices of frozen vegetables, oils, rice and dairy products.

“Start of the year 2012 will be hard but I expect noticeable improvement in the end of the year,” he said. On prospects of closing the Strait of Hormuz, AlBuaijan affirmed that such a dramatic eventuality would affect both the prices of the crude and food.— KUNA

Arab govts urged to respect youth freedom

KUWAIT: Secretary General of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Ali Al-Youha met recently with Nasser Al-Faraj, leader of Al-Qasr AlAhmar, a performing arts group. Along with band member Faraj Al-Faraj, they discussed ways to increase the number of activities held throughout the year at the Kazma Cultural Center as well as the Red Castle in Jahra.

Pillay ‘disturbed’ by US failure to close Guantanamo prison GENEVA: UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navi Pillay yesterday expressed deep disappointment that the Government of the United States of America has failed to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility, and has instead entrenched a system of arbitrary detention. The UN rights chief said she was also disturbed at the failure to ensure accountability for serious human rights violations, including torture, that took place there.

“It is ten years since the US Government opened the prison at Guantanamo, and now three years since Jan 22, 2009, when the President ordered its closure within twelve months. Yet the facility continues to exist and individuals remain arbitrarily detained - indefinitely - in clear breach of international law,” the High Commissioner said.

“To make matters worse, the new National Defense Authorization Act, signed into law in December 2011, now effectively codifies such indefinite military detention without charge or trial. This piece of legislation contravenes some of the most fundamental tenets of justice and human rights, namely the right to a fair trial and the right not to be arbitrarily detained. Nobody should ever be held for years on end without being tried and convicted, or released.”

The High Commissioner said she had noted the commitment made by President Obama in his statement on Dec 31, 2011 to interpret relevant sections of the National Defense Authorization Act “in a manner that ensures that any detention it authorizes complies with the Constitution, the laws of war, and all other applicable law.”

“While fully recognizing the right and duty of states to protect their people and territory from terrorist acts, I remind all branches of

the US Government of their obligation under international human rights law to ensure that individuals deprived of their liberty can have the lawfulness of their detention reviewed before a court,” Pillay said.

“Where credible evidence exists against Guantanamo detainees, they should be charged and prosecuted. Otherwise, they must be released.”

Pillay added that international law* requires “thorough and systematic investigation of all allegations of serious human rights violations, including torture, that allegedly took place at Guantanamo Bay.” “Every effort must be made to hold to account those responsible for the development, approval or implementation of coercive interrogation methods analogous to torture under international law,” she said.

“Individuals found to have perpetrated, ordered, tolerated or condoned torture and ill-treatment should be brought to justice.”

She also urged the US Government, so long as Guantanamo remains open, to ensure that conditions of detention comply fully with human rights standards under international law. Pillay said she was disturbed by the Government’s failure to allow independent human rights monitoring of the detention conditions at Guantanamo.

“I urge the US Congress to take steps to enable the US Administration to close the Guantanamo Bay detention centre - as it stated it wished to do - in compliance with the Government’s obligations under international human rights law, and in so doing, to fully respect the principle of non-refoulement, under which no one should be sent back to a country where they may face torture,” Pillay said. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Arab youth have to take a chance to voice their hopes and pains through political parties or social movements, Arab political experts concurred yesterday.

“Through their protests and activities Arab youth have prompted their society to move,” political science professor at Kuwait University Dr Shafiq Al-Ghabra said in a seminar held at the Elections’ Media Center at the Information Ministry here.

Al-Ghabra added that the current Arab generation is looking for freedom and real participation in political life.

He pointed out that some Arab regimes have for decades marginalized the middle class which represents the backbone of their societies.

“This marginalization has prodded young

people to revolt against their oppressors and their revolution succeeded in creating a new reality on the ground,” Al-Ghabra said.

For her part, Head of EU-Gulf Studies Department at Kuwait University Dr Haila AlMukaimi said authoritarian regimes vis-a-vis ideologists have made Arabs lose many years.

“Young people now try to cut short this bickering and make leap to achieve renaissance and development,” she said.

Al-Mukaimi suggested that new media, particularly social networking websites, has played an important role in outbreak of the Arab Spring.

“Kuwait now is moving from the virtual to the real world,” she said, adding that Kuwaiti youth have moved from traditional media to new media trends to express their views freely to

unlimited levels.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Editor of the Egyptian much-circulated Al-Akhbar newspaper Osama Ajaj said that the Egyptian revolution has long roots in history “Egyptian youth have led the struggle against foreign occupiers during the colonial era,” he said.

He underlined that young people who led the Arab revolutions do not belong to political parties or movements.

“They wanted to voice their sufferings and information technology helped them to take their grievances to streets,” Ajaj said.

He called for accommodating these ambitious Arab youth in political parties and organizations. —KUNA

Entertainment City announces spring timing

Anwar Al-Nisf

KUWAIT: The Touristic Enterprises Company ( TEC) announced the Entertainment City’s new spring break timing, effective between Jan 27 and Feb 11.

According to Operations and Activities Director Anwar Al-Nisf, the new timing during which the Entertainment City will remain open to visitors during spring break are: from 12 pm to 11 pm on weekdays (Sunday to Wednesday) and from 12am to 11pm on Thursday; The facility will remain open during weekends from 10am to 11pm on Friday, and from 10am to 10pm on Saturday.

The new timing is part of the

company’s strategies to improve quality of service provided in the Entertainment City, said Deputy Managing Director for the Entertainment City Affairs at TEC Meshary Al-Sanousy.

“New enhancements are going to be introduced to the Entertainment City soon, in addition to improved maintenance operations supervised by leading companies in this field,” Al-Sanousy added.

Al-Nisf added that various activities will be held at the Entertainment City during the spring break, including competitions and special events for children.

Meshary Al-Sanousy

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Lively North Korean capital celebrates Lunar New Year Page 12

Memo scandal witness refuses to travel to Pakistan Page 11

SANAA: Members and officers of the Yemeni Air Force shout during a protest outside the residence of Vice President Abd Rabbo Mansur Hadi, as they call for the dismisal of Air Force commander Major General Mohammed Saleh, the half-brother of outgoing Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, in Sanaa yesterday.—AFP

Yemen president en route to US Foes remain wary SANAA: President Ali Abdullah Saleh was en route to the United States for medical treatment, Yemen’s state news agency said yesterday, after delivering a dramatic farewell speech that left his opponents war y. The announcement came a day after Saleh in a televised address apparently marking the end of his rule appealed for forgiveness from the Yemeni people for “any shortcomings” during his 33 years in power. “The president ... is on his way to the United States to continue what is left of his medical treatment” for wounds sustained in a June bomb attack on his compound, SABA news agency said on its website.

The US State Depar tment said on Sunday that Washington approved a visit by Saleh for medical treatment but stressed it was on the understanding that he would stay only for a “limited time.” Saleh left late on Sunday for Oman with his five youngest children and his wife, according to a source close to the now “honorary president” of Yemen for the next month. In his speech, Saleh said he would return to Yemen but not as president, signalling the veteran leader aims to implement a Gulf-brokered transition plan which calls for his ouster.

“I will go to the United States for treatment and will then return as head of the GPC,” he said referring to his General People’s Congress party. After the election, “our brother Abdrabuh Mansour Hadi (the vice president) will move into the presidential residence and Ali Abdullah Saleh will pack up his bag, bid farewell, and go home,” he said implying that his role as president has come to an end.

However, the thousands of protesters who have been camped out at Sanaa’s Change Square, the epicentre of a pro-democracy movement calling for Saleh’s ouster over the past 12 months, cautioned it was too early to celebrate. “We are still concerned that this latest move might be one of Saleh’s games ... We will stay in the square until election day on February 21,” said Walid Ammar, a youth leader, remaining sceptical. “That is the day that Yemen’s future will be decided,” he said. The activist said “there were no celebrations” in Yemen on Sunday night despite Saleh’s speech and his departure to neighbouring Oman where he made a brief stopover.

“We will not celebrate until Saleh is tried,” he added.

Saleh’s departure followed a Yemeni parliament vote last week to grant him blanket immunity from prosecution for crimes committed in the government crackdown on dissent that since last January has left hundreds dead.

The decision was in line with the Gulf transition plan but has been fiercely criticised by the protesters who bore the brunt of the government crackdown. “We have suffered enough,” said democracy activist Manee Matari.

“The only thing we can do at this point is ask Allah to ensure that this time, Saleh leaves for good.”

Parliament on Saturday also adopted a law approving Saleh’s long-time deputy, Vice President Hadi, as the consensus candidate in the February election to succeed him. For months, Saleh refused to sign the power-transition plan despite near daily mass protests calling for his resignation, as well as regional and international pressure demanding he step down. The deadlock threw Yemen into chaos, shattered the impoverished country’s already weak economy, and left the central government and its institutions vulnerable to collapse. In the past few days, a series of mutinies have rocked the armed forces and anti-corruption strikes have spread across several government departments.

The latest incident occurred yesterday when soldiers calling for the ouster of Yemen’s Air Force commander, who is the president’s half-brother, staged a sit-in outside the vice president’s residence, urging him to dismiss the commander. According to military officials, soldiers and officers from air bases in the capital and in the main southern city of Aden have been calling for General Mohammed Saleh al-Ahmar’s ouster and threatened further strikes if their demands were not met.

In Yemen’s second largest city Taez, soldiers booted the local commander and his deputy from Tariq base after accusing them of corruption. Since Saleh took office in 1978, he has carefully chosen members of his regime, appointing his relatives to head the country’s military and security apparatus. In addition to his son and half brother, Saleh’s nephew Yehya commands the central security services and Tariq, another nephew controls the presidential guard.—AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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

Palestinian police free woman held 9 years JERUSALEM: A Palestinian woman was imprisoned for nine years in a bathroom by her father, beaten, barely fed and only let out at night, a social worker and police said yesterday. She was given only a blanket, a radio, and a razor blade by her father, who encouraged her to kill herself, said the social worker, Hala Shreim. Palestinian police freed Baraa Melhem on Saturday in the West Bank town of Qalqilya, after a relative told authorities of the woman’s plight, said spokesman Adnan Damiri.

Authorities said Melhem was in her early twenties and that she was initially locked up when she was between 10 and 12 years old. The woman was found by Shreim and the police in a small bathroom with a tiny window.

She wrapped herself in a blanket for warmth, and her father also gave her used clothes. “It’s a miracle she didn’t go mad. She had a small radio that she

used to listen to programs. She was aware of herself - of her own mental health. She said the radio was her only friend in the darkness,” said Shreim.

The social worker said Melhem was well-spoken and up-to-date on current affairs because she listened so intently to the radio. The young woman was not immediately available for comment, but told Israel’s Maariv newspaper that she hoped her father would suffer as she did. “I want them to put him in an underground bathroom, so he doesn’t see the light of day for 11 years, without food and water, to let him go through what I went through,” she said.

Baraa Melhem’s mother, who remarried and moved to a different town, asked about her daughter, but her exhusband would make up excuses why the young woman wasn’t around and sometimes told the mother to mind

her own business, Shreim said. The young woman told an Israeli newspaper that said she stopped asking to see her mother, because her father would beat her every time she made the request.

It was not clear why the mother did not report to police earlier that she had not seen her daughter for years. The young woman’s paternal aunt finally told Shreim of the situation. Shreim says she then persuaded the aunt to alert police. In a statement the young woman gave to the social worker, she said her father locked her up when she was about 10 years old after she ran away from school. Police returned her home and her father later forced her to sign a statement saying she didn’t want to go back to school. Melhem’s parents divorced when she was young and her father had custody.

Melhem told the social worker her

father initially locked her up because he said he wanted to protect her from the world outside, describing other people as “animals,” the social worker said. The father, an Israeli Arab who moved to the West Bank, was transferred to Israeli police. They identified him as 49-year-old Hassan Melhem.

Shreim said the young woman had been locked in the bathroom with a heavy metal door and an outside lock.

She told the social worker that her father beat her with electric cables and sticks when he was angry, poured cold water on her when she asked for her mother, and sometimes shaved her head and eyebrows. She was only let out late at night to clean the rest of the house, and given leftover food.

At one point, her father gave her a razor blade, telling her it would be better if the young woman killed herself, Shreim quoted her as saying. The social

worker said the young woman clung to the hope that she would be found one day, drawing strength from her small radio. The father appears to have created a culture of fear and silence among his family, who were terrified of even speaking about the imprisoned girl. He remarried to another woman, and had two other children, aged 11 and 18, Shreim said. His new family was also locked in the house when he wasn’t around, she added.

Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said the father was being held in an Israeli jail pending a court hearing on Wednesday. Rosenfeld said the man’s wife was also detained for questioning. Social worker Shreim said the young woman’s first request, after she was released, was for hard candy something she had been denied since she was a child. Then she asked to see her mother.—AP

‘Persepolis’ trial resumes in tense climate in Tunisia Court in uproar when proceedings begin

EAST JERUSALEM: A Palestinian man talks to a Red Cross staffer outside the organisation’s offices in east Jerusalem yesterday in front of a poster bearing pictures of four senior Hamas officials whom Israel has been seeking to expel, sparking concern among Palestinians across the Arab quarter of the holy city about their future residency status. —AFP

Hamas lawmakers arrested at Red Cross in Jerusalem JERUSALEM: Two lawmakers from the militant Palestinian party Hamas were arrested after hiding for over a year inside a Red Cross compound in Jerusalem, an Israeli police spokesman said yesterday. The spokesman, Micky Rosenfeld, said the men were wanted for “Hamas activities.” He would not elaborate. Red Cross officials confirmed the men had been holed up inside. In a statement, the Red Cross said that Khaled Abu Arfa and Mohammed Totah sought refuge in the compound on July 1, 2010, to escape Israeli arrest.

Israel, the US, EU and Israel list Hamas as a terror group due to its suicide bombings and other attacks aimed at civilians that have killed hundreds of Israelis. Israel bans Hamas from operating in Jerusalem. Last week Israel arrested the Hamas speaker of the Palestinian parliament.

Rosenfeld said the Hamas men were arrested when they ventured outside the Red Cross compound yesterday. Hamas spokesman Mushir al-Masri confirmed they were hiding at the Red Cross for a year and a half. “This is a Zionist crime,” he said. “Their abduction is a violation of their rights.”

Hamas lawmakers have taken refuge

at the Red Cross compound before. Last September Israeli police arrested another Hamas lawmaker who had been hiding at the facility for a year. The men were Hamas lawmakers in the Palestinian parliament, which has not functioned since Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007 from the Palestinian Fatah Party of President Mahmoud Abbas. They were among four Hamas officials Israel arrested in 2006 after an Israeli soldier was abducted by Gaza militants allied to the militant Islamic group.

After spending time in jail, they were ordered to leave Jerusalem but hid at the Red Cross instead to avoid expulsion.

“Hamas forcing itself on the Red Cross is not new,” Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Yigal Palmor said. “It raises serious questions about the abuse by Hamas of Red Cross neutrality and about the impotence of the Red Cross to counter such abuse.” In July last year, Israel sought clarifications from the Red Cross following a demonstration outside the organization’s Gaza headquarters for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, including many involved in deadly attacks. Israel charged that the Red Cross helped organize the event and said such activities compromise its neutrality.— AP

TUNIS: The trial of the director of Tunisia’s Nessma television, accused of “insulting sacred values” for showing the Franco-Iranian film “Persepolis”, briefly resumed yesterday in a tense climate in Tunis. “I am sorry to be here today, this is a political trial,” Nessma’s head, Nabil Karoui, said on arrival. “It’s the trial of 10 million Tunisians who dreamed of having a democratic country.” The court was in uproar when proceedings began, with opposing teams of lawyers shouting at each other, but then the trial was postponed until April 19.

Karoui is on trial for “insulting sacred values, offending decent morals and causing public unrest” in an affair which has led to violence and seen passions run high because a scene in the film shows God, whose representation is banned in Islam. From 9:00 am (0800 GMT), insults flew outside the court building between those who supported Nessma and those who had it in for the channel. A group of bearded young radicals shouted “The people want Nessma closed down” and “You, media cowards, know that religion mustn’t be defamed.”

Their opponents argued that they were defending the freedom of expression in a trial that was a test of Tunisia’s youthful democracy. The defence team of Nessma TV mobilised renowned lawyers, representatives of rights groups, nongovernmental organisations and ex-political figures, including former prime minister Beji Caid Essebsi, who was applauded by Nessma’s supporters. They also sang the national anthem.

“I have come to lend my moral

TUNIS: Tunisian and foreign reporters protest yesterday outside the courthouse in Tunis against a ban on coverage of the trial of the director of the Tunisian private TV channel Nessma television, Nabil Karoui. —AFP support to defend the freedom of expression. This is important because Tunisia is at the crossroads,” Caid Essebsi said. He helped steer the north African country through from a public uprising that ousted dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali in January 2011 to an elected government and a constituent assembly. Another political leader, the head of the leftwing Ettajdid party Ahmed Brahim, came to protest against the “abuse of religious sentiment”.

“The country today faces huge problems, social, economic, and national solidarity is necessary, not this false cleavage” in religious

war).” At present, there are at least five main Salafist groups in Gaza-Jaish al-Islam, Tawhid wal Jihad, Jaish Al-Umma, Ansar AlSunna and Jund Ansar Allah, all of whom express “strong support” for their Egyptian counterparts. But although they welcome their counterparts’ success, none of them have plans to go into politics for now, and all are expected to shun the legislative and presidential elections planned in the Palestinian territories in May. “Their interpretation of religious doctrine keeps them out of power,” said Walid Al-Mudallal, professor of political science at Gaza’s Islamic University, referring to Salafist disdain for democratic elections.

“In any case, the environment in Gaza is different from that in Egypt due to the resistance to the occupation,” he said.

Salafists generally reject participation in elections, and in Gaza they have criticised Hamas for focusing on electoral politics over fighting Israel. Though small in numbers, their criticisms of Hamas have stung the group, which long had a vir tual monopoly on the role of chief Islamist party and leader of the armed groups fighting Israel.

A March 2011 repor t by the International Crisis Group on radical groups in Gaza found that a large proportion of Salafists in the territory were former Hamas members angry about the movement’s participation in elections, failure to implement Islamic law and various ceasefire deals with Israel. Mudallal said while Salafist rhetoric may have won over some disgruntled Gazans, he remains sceptical the groups can upend the political hierarchy in Gaza, “where Islamist movements such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad have a significant presence.”—AFP

Karoui and Nessma,” said the representative of Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in Tunisia, Olivia Gre, who found that “some Tunisians are amazed to see Mr Karoui promoted to the status of champion the freedom of expression”, after his TV channel never crossed Ben Ali’s regime. Nessma TV, a satellite channel launched in March 2007, counts among its shareholders the Quinta Communications group of Tunisian cinema producer Tarak Ben Ammar and Silvio Berlusconi’s Mediaset, and was initially set up to provide entertainment. It was open to political debate after the Tunisian uprising.—AFP

Gaddafi diehards capture Bani Walid: Local official

Gaza Salafists hail success of Egyptian ‘brothers’ GAZA CITY: The meteoric rise of Egypt’s Salafists has given fresh hope to Gaza’s Salafist minority, who see it as a sign of their future victory and of the rise of an Islamic Caliphate. In Gaza, the Salafists hold little power, but Egypt’s Salafist al-Nur party took nearly 25 percent of the vote, its deputies a significant contingent among those being seated at the beginning of Egypt’s parliamentary session yesterday.

Abu Abdullah Al-Ghazi, who leads one of Gaza’s main Salafist organizations Jaish AlUmma, takes strength from the success of his Egyptian counterparts.

The victory encourages Gaza’s Salafists to “prepare for the battle to come between Good and Evil,” he says. Ghazi sports the long beard characteristic of Salafists, who espouse an austere form of Sunni Islam that seeks a return to practices that were common in the early days of the faith. He is convinced that Palestine will be free “within 10 to 12 years” and urges his fellow Salafists to “unite, shake off religious differences and overcome what divides them.”

“All the changes in the Arab world are leading up to the coming of the Islamic Caliphate,” he says, indicating that his group has good relations with Al-Nur. Abu Hudaifa, another member of Gaza’s Salafist community, says Al-Nur’s sweeping electoral success is a potent sign of the times.

“The victory of our brothers in Egypt is encouraging and we are sure that victory is approaching along with the establishment of the Caliphate,” he added, referring to a governing structure similar to that which existed during early Islam and which is based on strict Islamic sharia law.

He says Gaza-based activists gave “brotherly advice to the Egyptian Salafists and urged them to pursue jihad (holy

matters, Brahim added.

“Persepolis” is a cartoon film directed by comic book writer Marjane Satrapi that tells the story of the Iranian revolution and the Islamic regime of Ayotollah Ruhollah Khomeiny through the eyes of a precocious young girl. The broadcast by Nessma TV on October 7 led to a wave of anger and violence, two weeks before Tunisia’s elections.

Groups of Islamic extremists tried on October 9 to attack the headquarters of the channel in Tunis and then turned their wrath on Karoui’s house a few days later.

“The stakes are higher than Mr

BANI WALID: File picture dated October 4, 2011 shows a small carpet with the portrait of Libya’s ousted leader Moamer Gaddafi lies on the ground as National Transitional Council (NTC) fight at the frontline of Bani Walid, southeast of Tripoli . —AFP

TRIPOLI: Diehard supporters of slain Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi seized control yesterday of Bani Walid, his one-time bastion, after launching a brazen attack at a base there that killed five, officials told AFP. “The loyalists of Gaddafi took control of the entire city of Bani Walid,” said M’barek Al-Fotmani, a former member of the ruling National Transitional Council (NTC) in the desert oasis, 170 kilometres (110 miles) south of Tripoli.

The assault on the base of exrebels was the first major offensive launched by Gaddafi loyalists since the “liberation” of Libya on October 23, shortly after the fall of Bani Walid. Fotmani said the daylight attack on the stronghold of men who helped oust Gaddafi’s regime last year killed “five thuwar (anti-Gaddafi revolutionaries”, including a commander.” Around 30 ex-rebels were also injured, he said.

Mahmud Warfelli, spokesman of Bani Walid local council, said earlier that the attack was launched by “a group of remnants of the old regime,” and called for outside help against a feared “massacre.” “There are around 100 and 150 men armed with heavy weapons who are attacking. We have asked for the army to intervene, but the defence ministry and NTC have let us down,” he said. “(The gunmen) took control and hoisted the green flag on some districts, some important districts in the centre of the city,”

Warfelli added. “We’re out of the frying pan into the fire. We’ve been warning about this for the past two months.” Fotmani, said the assailants had circled the former rebels’ base. “The compound of thuwar is surrounded on all sides by loyalists of Gaddafi who are attacking it with all kinds of weapons,” said Fotmani. “ The attackers are carrying green flags,” symbol of the Gaddafi regime, he said from inside the base.

Fotmani said the base belonged to the May 28 Brigade, a unit of former rebels attached to the defence ministry.

“The attackers shouted ‘Allah, Moamer, Libya and that’s it!,” he said, referring to a slogan popularised by Gaddafi loyalists during his rule. “Yesterday they had distributed leaflets saying “We will be back soon. We will take the rats out,’” Fotmani added. “I call upon Libya to save Bani Walid thuwar urgently. Their ammunition is almost over.” He also said ambulances were unable to evacuate those wounded because there were “snipers postioned on a school and a mosque in the vicinity” of the attack.

Bani Walid was one of the last pro-Gaddafi bastions to fall in the bloody uprising against the former dictator’s rule. The capture of Bani Walid was followed days later by the fall of the longtime strongman’s hometown Sirte in a battle which also led to his killing and marked the “liberation” of Libya.—AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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

Mixed record for Obama’s State of the Union goals WASHINGTON: As President Barack Obama prepares to deliver his annual address to Congress, many goals he outlined in previous State of the Union speeches remain unfulfilled.

From reforming immigration laws to meeting monthly with congressional leaders of both parties, the promises fell victim to congressional opposition or faded in face of other priorities as the unruly realities of governing set in. For Obama, like presidents before him, the State of the Union is an opportunity like no other to state his case on a grand stage, before both houses of Congress and a prime time television audience. But as with other presidents, the aspirations he’s laid out have often turned out to be ephemeral, unable to secure the needed congressional consent or requiring follow-through that’s not been forthcoming.

As Obama’s first term marches to an end amid bitterly divided government and an intense campaign by Republicans to take his job, it’s going

to be even harder for him to get things done this year. So today ’s speech may focus as much on making an overarching case for his presidency - and for a second term - as on the kind of laundry list of initiatives that sometimes characterize State of the Union appeals.

“State of the Union addresses are kind of like the foam rubber rocks they used on Star Trek - they look solid but aren’t,” said Jack Pitney, a political scientist at Claremont McKenna College. “Presidents will talk about solving some policy problem, and then the bold language of the State of the Union address disappears into the messy reality of governing.”

For Obama, last year’s State of the Union offers a case study in that dynamic. Speaking to a newly divided government not long after the assassination attempt on Rep. Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson, Ariz., Obama pleaded for national unity, a grand goal that never came to pass as Washington quickly dissolved into

one partisan dispute after another.

Many of the particulars Obama rolled out that night proved just as hard to pull off. Among the initiatives Obama promoted then that have yet to come to fruition a year later: eliminating subsidies to oil companies; replacing No Child Left Behind with a better education law; making a tuition tax credit permanent; rewriting immigration laws; and reforming the tax system. The list of what he succeeded in accomplishing is considerably shorter, including: securing congressional approval of a South Korea free trade deal; signing legislation to undo a burdensome tax reporting requirement in his health care law ; and establishing a website to show taxpayers where their tax dollars go.

One of Obama’s pledges from last January’s speech - to undertake a reorganization of the federal government - he got around to rolling out only this month. And other promises are vaguer or more long term, such as declaring a “Sputnik moment” for

today’s generation and calling for renewed commitments to research and development and clean energy technology; pushing to prepare more educators to teach science, technology and math; promoting high-speed rail and accessible broadband; and seeking greater investments in infrastructure. “Clearly as time goes on and a presidency matures you get less and less of it and the State of the Union becomes an aspiration for what you want to do as opposed to a road map for what you can accomplish,” said Princeton University historian Julian Zelizer. As voters’ enthusiasm fades and opposition deepens, Zelizer said, “You lose some of your power and you get closer to the next election and no one wants to work with you.” Last year’s address already contained more modest goals than the speech Obama gave to a joint session of Congress a month after his inauguration, which although not technically a State of the Union report had the feel of one. At the time Obama called for overhaul-

ing health care and ending the war in Iraq - promises he kept - but also for closing the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and imposing caps on carbon pollution - promises unmet.

Obama this month announced plans to use tax credits to encourage employers to create jobs in the U.S. instead of overseas - an idea he also raised in his State of the Union speech two years ago. Some of his goals, such as immigration and education reform, have resur faced in multiple addresses, but still without being accomplished. And rarely has Obama’s rhetoric as president reached as high as the lofty promises of his campaign, when he pledged to change the very way Washington does business and remake politics itself. It’s a far cry from those promises of change to the ambition of meeting monthly with Democratic and Republican congressional leaders - but even that relatively modest goal, from Obama’s 2010 State of the Union, went unfulfilled.— AP

2 dead,in Alabama Storms pound South

WASHINGTON: Republican presidential candidate and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich is greeted by supporters after the mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine in Washington Sunday. —AP

Gingrich claims $1m raised after victory WASHINGTON: The Newt Gingrich campaign for the Republican presidential nomination, fresh off a stunning surge and upset victory over Mitt Romney, said yesterday that the candidate had raised more than a million dollars in just hours money that is much needed as the primary battle moves into Florida. The former speaker of the House of Representatives ravaged the sense of inevitability surrounding Romney’s second run for the nomination, with a remarkable 12-percentage point defeat of the former Massachusetts governor in Saturday’s South Carolina primary election. But the next contest, in the far larger and more diverse state of Florida on Jan. 31, will require huge spending on television advertising and Gingrich so far has been underfunded.

Gingrich sudden rise of fortunes has relied on the free media attention he has gained through stellar televised debate performances, particularly the one last Thursday in South Carolina. He roundly attacked what he termed the “elite” media and political class, then went on to trounce the patrician Romney, a former venture capitalist whose wealth is estimated at between $170 million and $250 million.

Hours before another debate yesterday, Gingrich took pleasure in the discomfort he is causing among the Republican establishment that backs Romney. “I think you’re going to see the establishment go crazy in the next week or two,” he said yesterday morning on ABC television. Gingrich moves toward the Florida primary vote claiming that he, not Romney, is the candidate best able to deny President Barack Obama a second term in the White House in the November election. Obama is vulnerable this year over his handling of the slow US economic recovery from the Great Recession, the deepest economic downturn since the 1930s depression.

Obama will have a high-profile chance to make his case for a second term tonight, when he makes his annual State of the Union speech. The Gingrich campaign said the candidate is using the influx of money to hire additional staff and to open new offices in Florida, a key swing state in the general election.

Romney has responded to his drubbing in South Carolina, where until just days ago he was expected to win and seal the Republican nomination as the inevitable candidate to challenge Obama, by going on the attack against Gingrich.

“He had to resign in disgrace. I don’t know whether you knew that,” Romney said of Gingrich’s time as House speaker in the 1990s. Gingrich was given an ethics reprimand by the lower congressional chamber and fined $300,000.

Gingrich also carries the baggage of three marriages and acknowledged marital infidelities, facts that should deny him support from the evangelical Christian base of the party. But those voters clearly overlooked Gingrich’s past in South Carolina, one of the most conservative US states. The primary there was the first in a Southern state.

Behind the scenes, aides also indicated that Romney would go after Gingrich’s character in Florida as a way to distinguish himself - a father of five who has been married to the same woman for 42 years - from his rival. And the aides argued that the results in South Carolina don’t indicate Republican primary voters everywhere are willing to overlook Gingrich’s past.

Publicly, Romney has refused to engage on the subject, saying at a debate Thursday: “Let’s get onto the real issues. That’s all I got to say.” He was responding to a debate question about an ABC News interview with Gingrich’s second wife, Marianne, who said the former speaker asked her for an open marriage so he could continue having an affair with the House staffer who is now his third wife.

It was an angrier, more aggressive Romney who took the stage at a rally in Florida on Sunday. He shouted back and forth with the crowd after Occupy Wall Street hecklers interrupted him and rattled off a list of leadership qualities, drawing cheers after each, in a rare backand-forth with the crowd.

Romney also attacked Gingrich’s time working for the quasi-government mortgage giant Freddie Mac, calling again for him to release records related to his consulting work for them. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are public-private organizations that guarantee private mortgages and have been roundly criticized for their alleged role in the near financial meltdown in the final months of the George W. Bush administration. As the Florida campaign heats up, former Pennsylvanian Sen. Rick Santorum will be battling to rise above third place, where he finished in South Carolina. The remaining candidate, Texas Rep. Ron Paul, is foregoing campaigning in the state.—AP

ALABAMA: Severe storms and possible tornadoes pounded the South yesterday, injuring more than 100 people and killing at least two in Alabama, including a man who lived in an area devastated by a deadly twister outbreak in the spring. Homes were flattened, windows were blown out of cars and roofs were peeled back in the middle of the night in the community of Oak Grove near Birmingham. As dawn broke, residents surveyed the damage and officials used chainsaws to clear fallen trees.

Oak Grove was hit hard in April when tornadoes ravaged Alabama, killing about 240 people, though officials said none of the same neighborhoods were struck again.

Officials had to reschedule a meeting yesterday to receive a study on Alabama’s response to the spring tornadoes. “Some roads are impassable, there are a number of county roads where you have either debris down, trees down, damage from homes,” said Yasamie Richardson, a spokeswoman for the Alabama Emergency Management Agency.

An 82-year-old man died in Oak Grove and a 16-year-old girl was killed in Clay, Jefferson County sheriff ’s spokesman Randy Christian said. The storm system stretched from the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, producing a possible tornado that moved across northern Jefferson County around 3:30 a.m., causing damage in Oak Grove and other communities, Christian said. As day broke,

ALABAMA: Residents walk around through the debris of their neighborhood after a possible tornado ripped through the Trussville, Ala. area in the early hours of yesterday.—AP searchers went door-to-door calling out to residents, many of whom were trapped by trees that crisscrossed their driveways. Stevie Sanders woke up around 3:30 a.m. and realized bad weather was on the way. She, her parents and sister hid in the laundry room of their brick home as the wind howled and trees started cracking outside.

“You could feel the walls shaking and you could hear a loud crash. After that it got quiet, and the tree had fallen through my sister’s roof,” said Sanders. The family

was OK, and her father, Greg Sanders, spent the next hours raking his roof and pulling away pieces of broken lumber. “It could have been so much worse,” he said.

“It’s like they say, we were just blessed.”In Clanton, about 50 miles south of Birmingham, rescuers were responding to reports of a trailer turned over with people trapped, City Clerk Debbie Orange said. Also south of Birmingham, Maplesville town clerk Sheila Haigler said high winds damaged many buildings and knocked down

several trees. One tree fell on a storm shelter, but no one was injured, Haigler said. Police had not been able to search some areas because trees and power lines were blocking roads. In Arkansas, there were possible tornadoes in several areas Sunday night. The storms also brought hail and strong winds as they moved through par ts of Arkansas, Tennessee, Illinois and Mississippi.

Tornado warnings were issued for parts of Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama.—AP

Mexico unravels child trafficking ring ZAPOPAN: Life seemed to give Karla Zepeda a break when a woman came to her dusty neighborhood of cinderblock homes and dirt roads looking for babies to photograph in an antiabortion ad campaign. The woman asked to use the 15-year-old’s baby girl in a two-week photo shoot for $755 ($10,000 pesos), a small fortune for a teen mother who earns $180 a month at a sandwich stand and shares a small, one-story house with her disabled mother, stepfather, and three brothers.

But 9-month-old Camila wasn’t just posing for photographs. Jalisco state investigators say the child was left for weeks at a time in the care of an Irish couple who had come to Ajijic, a town of cobblestone streets and gated communities 37 miles (60 kilometers) away, thinking they were adopting her. Prosecutors say the baby was apparently part of an illegal adoption ring that ensnared destitute young Mexican women trying to earn more for their children and childless Irish couples desperate to become parents.

Camila and nine other children have been turned over to state officials who suspect they were being groomed for illegal adoptions. And authorities hint that far more children could be involved: Lead investigator Blanca Barron told reporters the ring may have been operating for 20 years, though she gave no details.

Prosecutors also say four of the children show signs of sexual abuse, though they gave no details on how or by whom. Nine people have been detained, including two suspected leaders of the ring, but no one has yet been charged.

At least 15 Irish citizens have been questioned, the Jalisco state attorney general’s office said, but officials have not released their names. Neighbors say most or all have returned to Ireland after spending weeks or months in Ajijic trying to meet requirements for adopting a child. None was detained. For Karla Zepeda, the stor y began in August, when she was approached by Guadalupe Bosquez and agreed to lend her daughter for an anti-abor tion advertising campaign, she told The Associated Press. Bosquez later returned with another woman, Silvia Soto, and gave her half the mon-

MEXICO CITY: Alleged members of the Pacific drug cartel, led by Joaquin Guzman Loera, aka “El Chapo Guzman”, are presented to the press yesterday in Mexico City. —AFP ey as they picked the child up. She got the rest two weeks later when they brought Camila home. “They showed me a poster that showed my girl with other babies and said ‘No To Abortion, Yes To Life,’” said Karla, a petite girl cleaning her house to loud norteno music. “I thought it was legal because ever ything seemed very normal.” Before long, the message spread to her neighbors. Seven other women, most between the ages of 15 and 22, agreed to let their babies be part of the ad campaign.

Some already had several children. Some are single mothers. One of them doesn’t know how to read or write. Five of them told they AP that they did not even have birth certificates for their babies when they came across Bosquez and Soto.

One said she needed money to pay for her child’s medical care, another to finish building an extra room on her house. All deny agreeing to give their children up for adoption. “We’re going through a nightmare,” said Fernanda Montes, an 18-year-old housewife who said she took part to pay a $670 hospital bill from the birth of her 3-month-old. “How could we have trusted someone so evil?” The women say that Bosquez and Soto persuaded three of them to

register their children as single mothers so they could participate in the anti-abortion campaign, even though they live with the children’s fathers. Children’s rights activists say that also could have made it easier to release the child for adoption: only the mother ’s signature would be needed. The mothers were assured that the babies were being taken care of by several nannies and checked by doctors. The babies often returned home wearing new clothes. Some of the mothers said they began having second thoughts. But when they declined to send their children back, they say, Bosquez and Soto insisted they would have to pay for the strollers, car seats, diaper bags and everything else they had bought for the babies.

Investigators say that Bosquez and Soto were tak ing the children to a hotel in Guadalajara, where they met with Irish couples who believed they were going to adopt them.

The plan began to unravel on Jan. 9, when local police detained 21-year-old Laura Carranza and accused her of trying to sell her 2-year-old daughter. Investigators said Carranza denied that allegation, but acknowledged she was “renting” her 8-month-old son. She then led authorities to Bosquez and Soto. —AP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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South Africa’s Malema asks ANC to overturn suspension JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s fiery youth leader Julius Malema yesterday asked the ruling African National Congress to set aside his five-year suspension, in a bellwether for President Jacob Zuma’s reelection bid. His appeal began without any of the unrest that plagued the start of his disciplinary hearing in August, when his supporters clashed with police in downtown Johannesburg.

The party, which has run South Africa since Nelson Mandela became the first black president in 1994, kept a thick veil of secrecy on the proceedings. “It’s a pending decision. Nobody will talk to the media about the matter,” ANC spokesman Keith Khoza said.

Five other ANC Youth League leaders

will appeal similar suspensions during the same hearings, by a committee that includes senior party leaders such as businessman Cyril Ramaphosa, Justice Minister Jeff Radebe and National Planning Minister Trevor Manuel.

A dozen journalists outnumbered onlookers at the ANC headquarters in central Johannesburg early yesterday morning, while a few police officers stood guard. A lone protester wearing an ANC shirt and cap and chains around his neck, waist, wrists and ankles urged Ramaphosa to be harsh.

The man held a placard with the words: “Comrade Cyril, do the right thing, there’s no case here, just shackles.” Malema is expected to ask for his

suspension to be overturned because he was not allowed to plead for a lesser sentence. In November he was found guilty of sowing divisions within the ANC, misconduct and bringing the party into disrepute, following weeks of hearings that were marred by violent protests.

The charge of bringing the party into disrepute stemmed from his call for a regime change in democratic Botswana. Malema and the Youth League apologised for the statement.

He is likely to argue that the disciplinary committee should have dropped the charge because of the apology. His suspension will only take effect once he exhausts his appeals, which he could take all the way to the ANC

National Executive Committee, which will meet in December at the party’s leadership conference.

Zuma will seek at the same meeting to win another term at the helm of the party, which would essentially guarantee him another term as South Africa’s president, given the party ’s overwhelming support among voters.

Malema was once a fervent Zuma backer, even vowing to “kill” for him.

Now the two have fallen out, as Malema has sought to style himself as the voice of the nation’s poor.

That’s stepped onto Zuma’s political turf, after he campaigned for office on promises to help the poor-but stopping far short of Malema’s controversial call to nationalise mines. Malema

has kept his anti-Zuma campaign at full-throttle despite the disciplinary process. During the ANC’s centennial celebrations earlier this month, Malema held his own rallies where supporters sang songs ridiculing the president. The ruling party excluded the youth league from addressing the official anniversary celebrations. But ejecting Malema from the party would not eliminate the threat he poses, according to Fiona Forde, author of a Malema biography.

“Malema is the latest thing and it is unlikely that suspending or even expelling him from the ANC at this stage will clip his wings in any meaningful way,” Forde wrote in The Star newspaper yesterday. — AFP

French Senate eyes genocide bill Turkey threatens more sanctions

KANO: Muslims pray in the central mosque in the northern Nigerian city of Kano yesterday after a wave of attacks claimed by Islamists left more than 160 dead and raised fresh fears of civil unrest. —AFP

Nigeria’s Kano prays for peace after deadly attacks KANO: Nigerian officials and clerics said peace prayers in Kano yesterday after a wave of bomb-and-gun attacks claimed

by Islamists left more than 160 dead and raised fresh fears of civil unrest. Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, facing his worst crisis since winning April polls amid a surge in attacks by Islamist sect Boko Haram and mounting social discontent, vowed to beef up security.

Several bombs were set off and gun battles raged in coordinated attacks that were launched after Friday prayers in Nigeria’s second largest city and lasted several hours. Jonathan, after visiting the city on Sunday, said that some suspects had been arrested and that his government would track down the masterminds. “We will strengthen the security in Kano and other parts of the country,” he said, vowing to track down Boko Haram’s sponsors.

As the ancient holy Muslim city of about 4.5 million people still reeled from one of Boko Haram’s bloodiest attacks, some 200 Muslim clerics and political leaders gathered for special peace prayers. “I will pray to God that we should never re-live the catastrophe that resulted in the deaths and maiming in our city,” Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso said. The emir Ado Bayero told the clerics: “I enjoin you to continue praying for peace and stability in our city.

I call upon you to use any religious fora to pray for peace in our land.”

A purported spokesman for Boko Haram claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying it was in response to a refusal by the authorities to release its members from custody. Some detainees being held at a police station in the city were thought to have been freed during the attacks which targeted mainly police buildings.

Senate president David Mark said he and the speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Tambuwal, had ignored security to travel to Kano. “We

want to ensure that a few misguided Nigerians who have been led into this action don’t take this country hostage... it is not about religion, this affects the entire nation,” he told the state governor and his officials.

Jonathan is battling the worst crisis of his nine-month tenure as the violence has raised fears of an all-out civil war in Africa’s most populous nation and top oil producer. He has said some of the Boko Haram members have infiltrated government-from the security agencies to the legislature and the executive arm of government. Former president Olusegun Obasanjo however tried to downplay the crisis. “Even though it is a big challenge to the Nigerian people and its government, it is not one that... shakes Nigeria to its foundation,” Obasanjo said in Banjul late Sunday after meeting Gambian President Yahya Jammeh.

Jonathan imposed emergency rule in parts of Nigeria’s north on December 31 after a wave of violence blamed on Boko Haram, including attacks on churches on Christmas Day. But Kano, which had escaped the worst of the violence in recent months, was not among the areas covered. Relief workers said the overall death toll was at least 166 but a doctor at a major hospital said the toll could soar to 250. Around 50 people were gathered outside a main hospital morgue awaiting to collect remains of loved ones for burial yesterday. Lying on a bed in a ward at the hospital with a bullet wound on his leg, a tannery worker, yesterday Joseph, 29, recounted Friday’s attack.

He was driving home from work with four colleagues when one of the explosions went off. They abandoned the car and started running. “The four of them died. I am the only one who survived,” he told AFP. Nigeria’s supreme Muslim leader, the Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar, said the attacks were “perhaps the worst in terms of the loss of lives and property.” — AFP

PARIS: Turkey threatened more sanctions for France if the Senate in Paris votes later yesterday to make it a crime to deny the 20th-century killing of Armenians by Ottoman Turks constitutes a genocide. France’s lower house voted to make such denials a crime last month, prompting Turkey to suspended military, economic and political ties. If the bill passes the Senate, it will be on a fast track to becoming law. If it fails, the National Assembly, France’s lower house, could take it up again, starting the process over.

As the debate before the vote got under way, rival demonstrations - one pro-Turkish and one pro-Armenian, kept apart by a large police presence - gathered outside the upper house of parliament, waving flags and blowing whistles. On Saturday, thousands of Turks from across Europe marched through the French capital, accusing French President Nicolas Sarkozy of acting in the hope of securing French Armenians’ votes in this year’s presidential elections.

An estimated 500,000 Armenians live in France. While most historians contend that the 1915 killings of 1.5 million Armenians as the Ottoman Empire broke up was the 20th century’s first genocide, Turkey has vigorously denied that. It says that there was no systematic campaign to kill Armenians and that many Turks also died during the chaotic disintegration of the empire.

Yesterday, Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc, speaking during a visit to Strasbourg, France, said: “What would happen if a thousand, ten thousand or a hundred thousand gathered around Eiffel and said ‘there is no genocide’? What would the French justice do? Would it be able to convict ten thousand or a hundred thousand people? I don’t think so.” But the most significant protest came from Ankara, Turkey’s capital,

where the foreign minister warned that he was ready to take new measures against France if the bill passed.

“Turkey will continue to implement sanctions as long as this bill remains in motion,” Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu told reporters ahead of the debate. “We hope however, that this won’t be necessary and

PARIS: Turkish people demonstrate near the French Senate against today’s vote session for a bill criminalizing the denial of the Armenian genocide yesterday in Paris. —AFP that common sense will reign in the French Senate.” He did not spell out the measures Turkey would take.

The bill sets a punishment of up to one year in prison and a fine of ?45,000 ($59,000) for those who deny or “outrageously minimize” the killings - putting such action on par

Navy divers in action as Italy cruise captain tests negative GIGLIO ISLAND: Italian navy divers blew open access points in the wreck of the Costa Concordia yesterday as rescuers debated whether to call off their search for at least 19 people still missing. Italian media meanwhile reported that the luxury liner’s captain, Francesco Schettino, who faces charges of multiple manslaughter, had tested negative for drugs, while his lawyer said there could be other suspects in the tragedy.

“The investigations are in full flow also to determine possible other responsibilities of third parties who could at least have had a role” in causing the shipwreck, Bruno Leporatti was quoted as saying. Schettino has claimed that the risky route he took close to the Tuscan island of Giglio in a showboating manoeuvre was agreed beforehand with his superiors at Costa Crociere-a subsidiary of US-based giant Carnival Corp.

He has also said that he kept the company’s crisis officer fully informed about the scale of the disaster within minutes of hitting rocks, while the order to abandon ship was only given more than an hour later. The shipping line declined to comment when contacted

by AFP. Navy divers set off small quantities of explosives at depths of up to 18 metres (59 feet) to allow access to decks four and five of the half-submerged luxur y 114,500-ton cruise ship, which crashed 10 days ago.

“A team of divers is searching inside the vessel now,” said Alessandro Busonero, a spokesman for the navy, explaining that the series of small blasts had smashed through window panes of three-centimetre (one-inch) thick glass.

Busonero also said an oceanographic ship, the Galatea, had arrived on Giglio to help search for objects or bodies on the sea bead with the help of high-resolution imaging equipment and calculations of currents.

Thirteen people have been confirmed dead in the tragedy so far, including five bodies recovered that have not yet been identified. Officials have said there may also have been a Hungarian woman and others aboard as stowaways. Some experts believe the operation to pump out 2,380 tonnes of heavy fuel oil from the ship’s tanks cannot start until search operations are suspended because it could destabilise the vessel and cause it to sink entirely. — AFP

Mozambique: Storms, floods kill 22 MAPUTO: Storms have forced tens of thousands of people from their homes and killed 22 in the southern African nation of Mozambique, disaster relief officials said yesterday. State TV yesterday reported that 12 people died Sunday in the central province of Zambezia. Ten deaths in southern areas had been reported earlier in the aftermath of a tropical depression that brought fierce rains and wind last week.

Storms have abated, but Dulce Chilundo, director of the national emergency office, told Radio Mozambique the government is feeding and housing more than 56,000 people whose homes and belongings were swept away. The governor of Gaza, Raimundo Diomba, said several schools in his southern province were destroyed. Elsewhere, flooding has made stretches of highway impassable. —AP

with denial of the Holocaust.

France formally recognized the 1915 killings as genocide in 2001, but provided no penalty for anyone rejecting that. The bill strikes at the heart of national honor in Turkey, which has argued that the bill would compromise freedom of expression in France.

“European values are under threat,” Davutoglu

GIGLIO ISLAND: A woman poses in front of the cruise liner Costa Concordia liying aground in front of the Isola del Giglio (Giglio island) yesterday after hitting underwater rocks on January 13. —AFP

said yesterday. “If each parliament takes decisions containing its own views of history and implements them, a new era of Inquisition will be opened in Europe.” “Those who voice views that exclude this view of history will be jailed,” he said. “It would unfortunately, be a great shame for France to revive this.” —AP

Liberal in Russia says Kremlin bars him from vote MOSCOW: Election officials have refused so far to allow the leader of Russia’s leading liberal party to compete in March’s presidential election, a move the politician said reflects the government’s fear of genuine competition.

Grigory Yavlinsky, the leader of Yabloko party, said authorities want to prevent him from challenging Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s bid to extend his 12-year rule by reclaiming the presidency. He said other contenders are only nominal rivals who are following the Kremlin’s guidance.

“They aren’t letting me join the race, because they don’t want to allow an alternative - political, economic and moral,” Yavlinsky said at a news conference. The Central Election Commission said yesterday that more than 20 percent of the signatures collected in support of Yavlinsky’s candidacy were found to be invalid. It said it would make the final decision on Yavlinsky’s candidacy after checking another sample of the more than 2 million signatures required by law for a candidate to qualify.

Massive protests against vote-rigging that favored Putin’s party erupted after December’s parliamentary election, drawing tens of thousands into the streets in the largest show of public anger since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. The protests have posed a surprise challenge to Putin’s plan of easing back into the presidency, a post he held from 2000-2008. Yavlinsky’s party, which failed to clear a 7-percent threshold required to win seats in parliament, fielded thousands of election observers, who documented evidence of official fraud in favor of Putin’s United Russia party in December’s vote.

Under the law, observers at the polls can only be named by participants in the race. Yavlinsky charged that a decision to bar him from running also was rooted in authorities’ reluctance to allow strong monitoring of the March 4 presidential vote. The election commission already has registered Putin and three other contenders: Communist Party chief Gennady Zyuganov, ultranationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky and socialist Just Russia leader Sergei Mironov. Since their parties are represented in the parliament, their registration is easier than for other potential candidates.

Election officials also signaled yesterday they would register billionaire tycoon Mikhail Prokhorov, saying that a preliminary check of lists of signatures in his support had shown they correspond to legal norms.

Prokhorov owns 80 percent of the New Jersey Nets basketball team. Yavlinsky said all these candidates represent “different faces of the government” and warned that the refusal to allow him to join the race would undermine the vote’s legitimacy and could foment unrest. — AP

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India: Pakistan won’t get access to Mumbai gunman MUMBAI: A Pakistani commission investigating the 2008 terror attack in Mumbai will visit early next month, but will not be allowed to interrogate the lone surviving gunman, Indian officials said yesterday. The visit is the result of intricate negotiations between the nuclear-armed neighbors, but is unlikely to resolve tensions over whether Pakistan is sincerely working to prosecute the attack’s perpetrators - who

India says are linked to Pakistani security forces.

Disagreements over access to gunman Ajmal Kasab, who has been sentenced to death in India for his role in the rampage that killed 166, have spilled into public view. Pakistan’s interior minister, Rehman Malik, told India’s NDTV last week that Pakistani officials would like to speak with Kasab directly to verify his confession. “It can be verified either by

bringing Ajmal Kasab to Pakistan or the judicial commission goes and personally interviews the witnesses, including Ajmal Kasab,” he said. “That’s what we have requested.”

Ira Joshi, a spokeswoman for India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, said yesterday that such access was not part of the memorandum of understanding governing the visit. In his confession before the court - which he later tried to retract -

Kasab described in detail a network of training camps and safe houses across Pakistan, revealing the names of four men he said were his handlers. India has accused Pakistani intelligence of being intricately involved in the planning of the attack, and officials have complained that Pakistan is not acting vigorously enough to bring the masterminds to justice.

Pakistan bristles at that criticism, noting that seven suspects in the Mumbai attack

have been put on trial. The Pakistani delegation will visit Mumbai in the first week of February and speak to doctors who did the post-mortems on the nine gunmen killed during the attack, as well as to the magistrate who recorded Kasab’s confession and the chief investigating officer of the attacks, an official at Mumbai’s high court said on condition of anonymity because of the confidential nature of the visit. —AP

Memo scandal witness refuses to travel to Pak Ijaz offers to record testimony

KABUL: Internally displaced women stand in line to receive firewood donated by Welt Hunger Hilfe “German Agro Action” at a refugee camp in Kabul, Afghanistan yesterday. Over 300 internally displaced families received 140 kgs of firewood distributed by a German Non-Government Organization called Welt Hunger Hilfe on the outskirts of Kabul. —AP

Afghan soldier ‘killed French troops over US abuse video’ KABUL: An Afghan soldier who shot dead four French troops has said he did it because of a recent video showing US Marines urinating on the dead bodies of Taleban insurgents, security sources told AFP. The attack on the soldiers, who were unarmed, came on Friday at a base in eastern Afghanistan and left 15 other French troops wounded, eight of them seriously.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy reacted angrily, threatening to pull his forces out of Afghanistan ahead of the 2014 deadline for all US-led coalition combat troops, and dispatched Defence Minister Gerard Longuet to Kabul. That started a round of claim and counter claim over who was responsible for the attack, with Longuet saying he was told the killer was a Taleban infiltrator in the ranks of the Afghan army.

The Taleban , usually quick to claim coalition deaths, said they were still investigating and suggested some of the many attacks by Afghan soldiers on their foreign counterparts were prompted by anger towards the “invading enemy”.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai, in a statement after a meeting with Longuet, failed to echo his accusation against the Taleban and also played down the idea of Afghan resentment of foreign troops.

“The attack against French forces by an Afghan army soldier does not represent the anger of Afghan people but it is just an isolated and individual action,” he said. The story emerging from the interrogation of the soldier arrested for the killings-named as 21-year-old Abdul Mansour-would support Karzai’s interpretation. “During the initial interrogations

by French soldiers, he told them he did it because of the video in which American soldiers were urinating on bodies,” an Afghan army officer told AFP. That report was backed by an intelligence source and another with access to information from the Afghan ministry of defence, both of whom requested anonymity. The intelligence source said

the soldier told interrogators he had no direct contacts with the Taleban . The Afghan soldier had also referred to a video showing British soldiers allegedly abusing Afghan children, the ministry of defence source said. Less than a week after news of the US Marines video broke, British military police arrested two servicemen over allegations that they abused an Afghan boy and a girl, both aged about 10, and filmed the incidents.

The US video, posted online this month, showed four US soldiers urinating on three bloodied corpses, and one of the men, apparently aware he was being filmed, saying: “Have a great day, buddy,” referring to one of the dead. The images conjured up previous abuses committed

by US troops during the decade-long war against Taleban insurgents and top US officials scrambled to condemn the soldiers.

Told that AFP was about to run reports of the Afghan soldier’s alleged confession, a spokesman for the US embassy in Kabul, Gavin Sundwall, said: “Our deepest condolences go out to France and the families of the soldiers who lost their lives in this tragic incident.” The actions in the video “violate the core values of both our societies”, he added. The bodies of the four French soldiers were flown back to Paris late Sunday, accompanied by French Defence Minister Gerard Longuet.

Sarkozy sent his defence minister to Afghanistan after the attack to evaluate ways to improve the security of the French troops who are training up the Afghan army. A spokesperson for the British embassy in Kabul said an investigation into the allegations against the British troops was under way and therefore the embassy could not comment on the Afghan soldier’s claim. The US, Britain and France are the main contributors to the coalition forces of some 130,000 troops who have been fighting a 10-year insurgency by hardline Islamist Taleban forces ousted from power after the 9/11 attacks in the US. —AFP

ISLAMABAD: The chief witness in a secret memo scandal that threatens to bring down the Pakistani president will not travel to the country to testify, claiming the government has set a trap to prevent him from leaving, his lawyer said yesterday.

Mansoor Ijaz has instead offered to record his testimony and submit it to a Supreme Court commission investigating the scandal, said attorney Akram Sheikh. Ijaz, a US businessman of Pakistani origin, was scheduled to travel to Islamabad to appear before the commission today but has bickered with the government over who will guarantee his safety.

Ijaz has accused the Pakistani government of orchestrating an unsigned memo that he delivered to the US last year asking Washington to help stop a supposed military coup following the American raid that killed Osama bin Laden. The Pakistani government has denied any involvement.

It’s unclear how the commission will respond to Ijaz’s refusal to travel to Pakistan. His testimony is seen as vital, and anything that interferes with the judges’ fully quizzing him could hinder their investigation into the scandal.

The memo affair has rattled the civilian leadership at a time when it is beset by an array of crises, including a struggling economy, a violent Taleban insurgency and a separate tussle with the Supreme Court over old corruption charges against President Asif Ali Zardari.

The army was outraged by the memo and denied it ever intended to carry out a coup. It successfully pushed the Supreme Court to investigate against the wishes of the government, which said the matter was already being probed by the parliament.

Ijaz has claimed the Supreme Court commission ordered the military to guarantee his security while in Pakistan, but the government has said the Interior Ministry was responsible. Interior Minister Rehman Malik has warned Ijaz could be prevented from leaving the country. “It seems like a wellorchestrated trap to hold Mansoor Ijaz indefinitely in Pakistan,” said Sheikh, his lawyer.

The army assigned one officer to Ijaz ’s security detail at the request of the government, said

Attorney General Anwarul Haq. But this was clearly not enough to assuage the witness’ concerns.

Ijaz has accused the former Pakistani ambassador to the US , Husain Haqqani, of crafting the memo with Zardari’s support.

Haqqani resigned in the wake of the scandal, but both he and the president have denied any connection to the letter.

The Supreme Court has prevented the former envoy from

both women eventually ripped off their bikinis - a shocking image in conservative Pakistan.

Ijaz claimed he didn’t know there would be nudity in the video.

One of the reasons the memo scandal has generated so much controversy is rampant antiAmerican sentiment in Pakistan.

The letter offered to replace Pakistan’s national security leadership with people favorable to the US in return for help from

ISLAMABAD: Akram Sheikh, lawyer of Mansoor Ijaz addresses a news conference outside the Supreme Court in Islamabad, Pakistan yesterday. —AP leaving the country while it is investigating.

Haqqani’s lawyer, Zahid Bokhari, filed a petition with the commission asking it to turn down Ijaz’s request to record his statement. “If he does not come to Pakistan, he has something to hide, instead of something to reveal,” said Bokhari. Government supporters have accused Ijaz of acting at the behest of the country’s powerful army, something both have denied. They have also questioned Ijaz’s credibility.

Those questions intensified last week after a music video surfaced in which Ijaz acted as a ringside commentator for a female wrestling match in which

Washington in stopping the supposed coup.

The US has provided Pakistan with billions of dollars in military and economic aid in return for support in fighting the Taleban and AlQaeda, but relations have always been defined by a lack of trust. The raid that killed bin Laden in a Pakistani garrison town heightened that mistrust. Pakistan was outraged it was not told about the operation beforehand, and US officials questioned how bin Laden was able to live near Pakistan’s equivalent of West Point for years.

The relationship deteriorated further late last year after American airstrikes accidentally killed 24 Pakistani soldiers at two Afghan

nuclear-powered ballistic submarines and the Russian delivery is expected to help crews train for the domestic boat’s introduction into service next year. The submarine was originally due to be handed over to India in 2009 but has been hit by various problems during testing. During trials in the Sea of Japan in November 2008, 20 sailors were killed when a fire extinguisher released a deadly chemical that had been accidentally loaded into the system.

The INS Chakra was commissioned

by India in 2004 and has seen the South Asian giant pay $650 million in construc tion costs. Earlier newspaper reports in India said New Delhi may end up paying as much as $900 million under the terms of the deal. Russia’s RIA Novosti news agency valued the contract at $920 million. Russia supplies 70 percent of India’s military hardware but New Delhi has been unhappy about delays to arms orders from Moscow and has looked to other suppliers including Israel and the United States in recent years. —AFP

But the drone attacks have since resumed. Missiles struck a house and a vehicle in Deegan village in the North Waziristan tribal area yesterday, killing four alleged militants, said Pakistani intelligence officials speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media. The US refuses to speak publicly about the drone program, but American officials have said privately that the strikes have killed many senior Taleban and AlQaeda commanders. Although Pakistan is widely believed to have supported the strikes in the past, that cooperation has become strained as the relationship between the two countries has deteriorated. —AP

Pak escalates criticism over US strike

India sails nuclear submarine home NEW DELHI: Indian navy personnel will take command of the country’s first nuclear-powered submarine in two decades yesterday after collecting the vessel near the Russian por t of Vladivostok, an official said. Moscow offered the Russian-built Chakra II to the Indian navy on a 10-year lease, a move that has angered India’s arch-rival and nuclear-armed neighbor Pakistan.

The Akula II class craft is the first nuclear-powered submarine to be operated by India since it decommissioned its last Soviet-built vessel in 1991. “INS Chakra II is being handed over to Indian personnel in the east, near Vladivostok,” a senior navy source in I ndia told AFP, ask ing not to be named because Russia is to formally announce the transfer. The 8,140-tonne submarine, capable of firing a range of torpedoes as well as nuclear-tipped Granat cruise missiles, is to sail under the I ndian flag to its base at Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal.

India is currently completing the development of its own Arihant-class

border posts. Islamabad retaliated by closing its border crossings to supplies for NATO troops in Afghanistan and kicking the US out of a base used by American drones.

Drone strikes have been a source of tension because they are widely perceived in Pakistan as mostly killing civilians, a claim denied by the US Washington held off on carrying out drone attacks in Pakistan for more than six weeks after the errant airstrikes on Nov. 26.

KOLKATA: Trinamool Congress Party leader and Chief Minister of the state of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee gestures as she arrives to pay tribute to Subhash Chandra Bose during his birth anniversary in Kolkata, India yesterday. Bose, who is called Netaji, founded the Indian National Army to fight the British colonial rule to free India during the World War II. —AP

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan yesterday stepped up its criticism of NATO and the United States for refusing to accept entire responsibility for killing 24 Pakistani soldiers in US air strikes two months ago. Escalating its criticism of a joint US-NATO military report an entire month after receiving its unclassified findings, the military appeared to be hardening its stance as parliament conducts a review of the US relationship.

The November 26 killings saw Pakistan shut its Afghan border to NATO supplies and order American personnel to leave an air base reportedly used by CIA drones as the troubled war-time alliance plunged to an all-time low. The US-NATO report said both sides made a series of mistakes, which Pakistan disputed as “factually not correct”, instead blaming US and NATO failure to inform Pakistan that its troops would be operating along the porous border.

The military lashed out at “the complicated chain of command, complex command and control structure and unimaginative/intricate rules of engagement as well as lack of unified military command in Afghanistan”. It dismissed the US findings and said affixing partial responsibility on Pakistan was “unjustified and unacceptable”.

Pakistan had already rejected the report, but its expanded criticism came days after General Knud Bartels, NATO’s most senior military officer, called on Islamabad to reopen its Afghan border to military supplies.

Islamabad has not said when it will reopen the route and is thought likely to do so only by exacting taxes on convoys. The crisis in US relations has since been overshadowed by a stand-off between the courts and the civilian government that analysts believe can force early elections within months, in part by a military working behind the scenes. —AFP

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Japan seeks Fukushima UN nuclear agency presence TOKYO: Japan is asking the UN’s nuclear agency to set up a permanent office in Fukushima to monitor its efforts to contain the world’s worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl. The International Atomic Energy Agency was “carefully considering” the request, said James Lyons, who is leading a team of IAEA experts reviewing Japan’s safety tests for idled reactors. Tokyo wants an international seal of approval for the energyhungry country’s nuclear industry to bolster its faltering efforts at reassuring the public it is safe to resume atomic operations.

The vast majority of Japan’s 54 com-

mercial nuclear reactors are offline because popular opposition is preventing their being restarted in the wake of the Fukushima nuclear crisis. The disaster, triggered by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami, contaminated the environment and forced tens of thousands of residents around the Fukushima nuclear site, in northeast Japan, to evacuate their homes. Many still do not know if or when they will be able to return. Utility companies say Japan will experience severe power shortages if nuclear electricity production is not re-started.

“We are making contact with the International Atomic Energy Agency to

see what’s possible after we received requests from Fukushima that it hoped IAEA will have a permanent presence in the area,” a Japanese diplomat told AFP, under customary condition of anonymity.

Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba, whose parliamentary constituency is in Fukushima, told residents on Sunday that he was making the push after requests from local leaders. “We are calling on IAEA Director-General Yukiya Amano for the international agency’s constant presence,” he said in a speech, according to Jiji Press.

The announcement coincided with a visit by a 10-member team of IAEA

experts led by Lyons, the agency’s director of nuclear installation safety. “That’s a very important request that we received and it’s something that is going to take careful consideration by the IAEA,” Lyons told Japanese reporters. “That consideration is underway now.” At the request of the Japanese government, his team will review the methodology of Japan’s “stress test” before Tokyo approves any nuclear reactor re-starts.

The Vienna-based IAEA has offices around the world-including in Tokyo-but it does not normally have permanent bases to monitor commercial reactor sites. Tokyo has struggled with public

trust on the nuclear issue since the disaster. It appeared to have suffered a further setback yesterday when it was revealed the body set up to manage the unfolding atomic catastrophe at Fukushima kept no records of its meetings. The government’s nuclear disaster task force, headed by then prime minister Naoto Kan and including all of his ministers, has no minutes of the meetings that approved the evacuation of people living near the crippled reactors. The Cabinet Office, in charge of keeping all public records, said it has told the agency to study what it can do to create a written record of the decision-making processes. —AFP

EU eases sanctions on Myanmar leaders Ministers hail ‘remarkable’ program of reform BRUSSELS: The European Union agreed yesterday to suspend visa bans on the president of Myanmar and other senior officials, following reforms that have included the release of hundreds of political prisoners. EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels hailed a “remarkable program of political reform” in Myanmar and the government’s commitment to economic and social development. They said that in response, the EU would suspend visa bans

engagement” by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.

Further reforms, including the release of remaining political prisoners, the holding of free and fair by-elections in April and progress in resolving ethnic conflicts could lead to more sanctions being eased by the end of April, they said.

“These changes are opening up important new prospects for developing the relationship between the European Union and

an arms embargo, a prohibition on technical assistance related to the military and investment bans in the mining, timber and precious metals sectors.

EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton said “quite extraordinary changes” had taken place in Myanmar in the last weeks and months and British Foreign Secretary William Hague said it was important to recognise the progress made. Ashton said she aimed to visit the country

YONGON: Myanmarese ethnic Chinese light candles at a Chinese Buddhist temple during the celebration of the Lunar New Year yesterday in Yangon, Myanmar. —AP on Myanmar’s president, Thein Sein, the country’s vice-presidents, cabinet members and parliamentary speakers.

In a statement, the ministers also pledged to promote reform by increasing assistance to reduce poverty and for professional training and by strengthening dialogue with the government. They also called for “progressive

Burma/Myanmar,” the statement said of Myanmar’s reforms. EU sanctions were imposed after bloody military crackdowns on a pro-democracy movement led by Nobel Prize-winning dissident Aung San Suu Kyi. They target nearly a thousand firms and institutions with asset freezes and visa bans have affected almost 500 people. The sanctions also include

soon-probably after the April ballot. “Colleagues who have already been there have experienced a real sense of transition in that country,” she said. “We are working closely with Aung San Suu Kyi and I will visit Burma in coordination with her-we’ve done this entirely with her.”

She said the aim of the visit would be to offer “full support in

what we hope will be a very successful transition”. The reforms in Myanmar have followed a March election that saw a new government take over from a military junta and have included loosening media restrictions and other repressive laws, peace talks with ethnic insurgents and the freeing of hundreds of political prisoners.

Ashton sent her top foreign policy adviser to Myanmar last year, and the EU, in a move to encourage reform, slightly eased sanctions last April by suspending travel bans and asset freezes on 24 civilian government officials.

Earlier this month, the European Union said it would open a representative office in Myanmar to manage aid programs and promote political dialogue. Suu Kyi, a former political prisoner who was freed in 2010, has reversed her stance on boycotting Myanmar’s army-dominated political system following the reforms and has agreed to stand in the April polls.

The lifting of sanctions could lead to Western investment in oil, gas and other sectors to compete with Myanmar’s neighbors, especially India, Thailand and China.

The United States has decided to upgrade diplomatic ties with Myanmar as a result of its reforms and is considering lifting its sanctions if the by elections are fair and open. As big as France and Britain combined, Myanmar lies between India, China and Southeast Asia with ports on the Indian Ocean and the Andaman Sea, all of which make it an energy security asset for Beijing’s landlocked western provinces and a US priority as Obama strengthens engagement with Asia.

Its resources include natural gas, timber and precious gems.

Myanmar is building a multibillion-dollar port through which oil can reach a 790-k m (490mile) pipeline under construction with Chinese money and workers. —Reuters

Lively North Korean capital celebrates Lunar New Year PYONGYANG: North Koreans bundled against the freezing cold paid respects again to late leader Kim Jong Il in Pyongyang’s main plaza yesterday and celebrated the Lunar New Year holiday with colorful flowers and children’s games. A massive portrait of Kim Jong Il, absent after the mourning period for his death last month, has been restored at the vast Kim Il Sung Square. People stood in line to bow and lay single red flowers - the late leader’s namesake “kimjongilia” begonias - made of fabric.

The capital city that was barren and somber for

several weeks is filled with color again: flower beds and planters bursting with blossoms and the red, white and blue national flag fluttering from signposts. Banners celebrating the year and posters marking the holiday called “Sol Myong Jol” here were pinned to buildings and walls. The North Korean year “Juche 101” counts from 1912, the year founder Kim Il Sung was born. The holiday comes as new leader Kim Jong Un, who has pledged to uphold his father’s “military first” policy, visits military units. North Korea recently credited him with commanding

PYONGYANG: A North Korean man photographs a child in front of a New Year decoration as they celebrate the first day of the Lunar New Year in Pyongyang, North Korea, yesterday. —AP

nuclear tests and working closely with his father on military and economic matters, dismissing other countries’ doubts about his ability to lead a country with an active nuclear program and chronic food shortages. The new era of leadership comes as North Korea prepares to celebrate the 100th anniversary in April of the birth of national founder, late President Kim Il Sung.

In downtown Pyongyang, lanterns printed with “2012” and “Congratulations” dangled from the eaves of Pothong Gate. At the plaza in front of the Pyongyang Grand Theater, hundreds of children scampered and shouted as they flew kites and played traditional Korean games in freezing temperatures. Pyongyang residents said they were encouraged to celebrate the holiday as they usually do, despite the death of Kim Jong Il, only the second leader North Koreans have known since the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was founded in 1948. State television aired a segment late Sunday on making rice cake soup, a traditional New Year’s meal in both Koreas.

At the Mangyongdae Schoolchildren’s Palace, high-ranking military and political officials watched an annual song-and-dance performance by students and a troupe of performers from the ethnic Korean community in Japan. On Mansudae Street, Ro Chang Hae said his first emotion on Lunar New Year’s Day was to miss the late leader. “My eyes sting with tears whenever I think about how he provided us with such a comfortable home and always worried so much about us year after year,” he told The Associated Press.

His granddaughters, an 8-year-old dressed in a school uniform and a 3-year-old wearing in a pink Korean dress, bowed as they wished him well. The girls poured a tumbler of Korean liquor for him, saying: “Grandfather, we hope you’ll be healthy and hope for your longevity.” Ro, 68, said the whole family would gather at lunchtime for rice cake soup. —AP

KYOTO: Minoru Ohye, Hiroshi Kamimura Minoru Ohye, right, blows out candles on the birthday cake as he celebrates his 86th birthday yesterday, with his younger brother Hiroshi Kamimura in Kyoto, Japan. —AP

Brothers reunited in Japan after 6 decades KYOTO: Japanese-American Minoru Ohye traveled all the way to Japan to celebrate his 86th birthday yesterday with his only brother, whom he had not seen in nearly 60 years. The brothers were born in Sacramento but were separated as children after their father died in a fishing accident. They were sent to live with relatives in Japan and ended up in different homes. When they hugged in a hotel room and exchanged gifts of California chocolate and Japanese sake, they no longer even spoke the same language.

The American brother wore his trademark baseball cap and jeans. The Japanese bother wore a suit and tie. But they had the same bright eyes and square jaws, a dead giveaway that they were brothers. They both loved golf and had back pains. They thought the other hadn’t changed a bit. “If we miss this chance, we may never meet. You never know,” said Ohye, energetic except for a sore knee. “Either he may die, or I may die.” Separated across the Pacific, their only prior meeting had been a brief one in the mid-1950s when Ohye stopped by Japan while serving in the U.S. Army in the demilitarized zone on the Korean peninsula.

His brother, Hiroshi Kamimura, 84, was adopted by a Japanese family, grew up in the ancient capital of Kyoto and became a tax accountant. He married and had three sons. Ohye joined the youth group of the Japanese Imperial Army at 13 and went to Russia, where he was sent to a Siberian coal mine when Japan surren-

dered. He returned to be with his mother in Yuba City, California, in 1951, and worked as a bookbinder and a gardener.

He became homeless when he failed to collect payment for a restaurant he ran and later sold in the late 1950s. About 10 years ago, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, a welfare service organization for US veterans, found him a spot in the Eskaton Wilson Manor home for the elderly. It was Eskaton’s program to grant a wish called “Thrill of a Lifetime” that got Ohye back to Japan. While others wished for rafting trips and football game tickets, the only thing Ohye wanted was to see his brother again. Eskaton administrator Debbie Reynolds put together a fundraiser for Ohye’s trip.

Kamimura acknowledged it had been difficult to communicate with his brother through telephone calls because he didn’t understand English. They would exchange a lot of “hellos” and then their conversations ended, he said. “I am happy. He is the only brother I have,” Kamimura said after watching Ohye blow out the candles on a birthday cake at a restaurant. “This may be our last time together.” Brian Berry, a graduate student at the University of Tokyo who was approached by Reynolds to help with the reunion and got Ohye from the Tokyo airport to Kyoto, was relieved the brothers were together at last. “Even over time, with all that has been gone through, still the only thing you are thinking about is your family,” he said. “Right when you’re near the end of your life, you are still thinking about your family.” —AP

Some Chinese aggrieved find inspiration in rebel village WANGGANG: As China gears up for a leadership transition, a small fishing village that stood up to official corruption and rural land grabs has become a touchstone for other communities striving to fight back against grassroots abuses. Since the uprising late last year in Wukan, a coastal village of 15,000 in southern China’s Guangdong province that challenged and won key concessions from provincial officials, other rural communities have taken note, and in some isolated cases, sprung to action.

About 1,000 residents of Wanggang, a gritty suburb of leather factories and shabby tenement blocks, recently massed outside the gates of the Guangdong provincial capital Guangzhou, holding a rare large-scale protest striking at a major Chinese city government.

For some of them, Wukan has become a new rallying cry for their own battle against public graft. “If China doesn’t change and help ... vul-

nerable residents in villages, every village might develop into a Wukan,” said a stocky 33year-old surnamed Li, who took part in the rally against Wanggang’s Communist Party village chief, Li Zhihang, whom they accuse of plundering land and widespread fraud.

While few expect Wukan to be a catalyst for any broader tumult across China, it is emerging as a new benchmark of rural activism in some communities, a symbol of hope for residents suffering longstanding abuses of power from corrupt local officials often in collusion with businessmen.

Guangdong province has seen its share of unrest, from strikes to riots in Zengcheng over oppressive behaviour against migrant workers. The province’s prominent party boss, Wang Yang, must avoid serious policy mistakes damaging his prospects for promotion in a watershed leadership transition late this year. —Reuters

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

NEWS Egypt Islamists take centre stage Continued from Page 1

SANAA: A Yemeni blacksmith works in his shop at Al-Melh marketplace in the old city of Sanaa yesterday. —AP

Norway asked to return kids to Indian parents NEW DELHI: India urged Norway yesterday to act quickly to reunite two Indian children with their parents after Norwegian child welfare services put them into foster care eight months ago. Anurup and Sagarika Bhattacharya lost custody of three-year-old Avigyan and one-year-old Aishwarya after Norwegian officials objected to their feeding the children by hand and sharing the same bed, according to press reports. These are common practices in India, where they are seen as part of the bonding between mother and child.

Indian Foreign Minister S M Krishna told reporters he had urged the Norwegian authorities “to find an amicable and urgent solution to ensure that the children are returned to the biological parents”. Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere’s office said in a statement that he had spoken with his Indian counterpart yesterday and had assured him that Norwegian authorities were “working hard to find a solution that is in the best interests of the children involved”.

The Child Welfare Services in the southwestern Norwegian town of Stavanger, where the family lives, would not comment on the grounds for removing the children from their home, insisting the information was confidential.

Gunnar Toresen, who heads the local branch of the agency, strongly denied that the “case in any way is based on cultural prejudice or misinterpretation”. He said in a statement that “the Child Welfare Service has a responsibility to intervene if measures in the home are not sufficient to meet a child’s needs”. “Examples are when a child is mistreated or subjected to other serious abuses at home, or when there is every probability that the child’s health or development may be seriously harmed because the parents are incapable of taking adequate responsibility for their child,” he said.

The parents are now fighting a legal battle for their children and have already lost their case in a lower court.

According to Toresen, the parents’ explanation for why their children had been removed did not figure in the ruling of the County Committee, a family court. Krishna said he believed that “given the children’s young age, removal from the care of natural parents and to be placed in foster care till they turn 18... is an extreme step which should normally be taken as a last resort”.

“It’s like a nightmare,” Sagarika Bhattacharya, the mother, told India’s NDTV news channel. “We only hope that the Indian government will intervene and bring back our children to our laps.” The parents still live in Stavanger, where the father works for an oil company, their lawyer, Svein Kjetil Lode Svensen, told AP. He said Norwegian authorities yesterday proposed sending the children back to India to live with relatives. “I will not comment on the details because we are now negotiating with the authorities,” he said.

Krishna said he expected to reach a solution which would be acceptable to the children’s families and to the Norwegian court. In a statement released at the weekend, India said the children were being deprived of the “benefits of being brought up in their own ethnic, religious, cultural and linguistic milieu” and must be reunited with their parents. The case has attracted considerable attention in India in recent days, with many questioning the decision of Norwegian authorities. Brinda Karat, senior member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) attacked Norway’s child welfare services. “The question is what gives the Norwegian authorities the right, whether morally or even (under) international rules, to take away these babies from their parents?” she told NDTV. — Agencies

power remaining in the hands of the generals who took power from former president Mubarak. “How can we read this oath when we don’t even know if we will be a presidential system or a parliamentary system?” one MP asked during the swearing in.

Hundreds of protesters also gathered outside parliament amid heavy security to press deputies to implement the goals of the revolution, including an end to military trials of civilians, social justice and the trial of officials found guilty of abuse. Others chanted against the ruling military council and its chief Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi, who served as Mubarak’s defence minister for two decades. Katatni thanked “the great Egyptian army and the (ruling) Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, which stuck to its promise that it would hold elections that the world could boast about”.

The military has repeatedly pointed to the landmark polls as proof of its intention to hand power to civilian rule, but it has come under intense criticism in recent months for rights abuses and stifling dissent. Activists accuse the generals of seeking to maintain political control despite assurances by the army that it will cede power to a civilian authority when a president is elected in June.

Before Katatni’s election, the packed and sometimes chaotic first session was chaired by parliament’s most senior member, Mahmud Al-Saqqa of the liberal Wafd party. The deputies were sworn in one by one, pledging to “preserve the safety of the nation and the interests of people and to respect the constitution and the law”. In a

sign of the Islamists’ increasing assertiveness, one ultraconservative Islamist MP insisted on adding a religious reference to the oath. Lawyer Mamduh Ismail took the microphone vowing to also “abide by the law of God”, but he was sharply rebuked by the chair, Saqqa. “Please stick to the text,” an angry Saqqa urged Ismail, asking him to repeat the oath several times. Others tried to add “to protect the goals of the revolution” to the oath and received a similar rebuke, during the animated first session which saw several deputies don yellow sashes calling for “an end to military trials of civilians”.

The long-banned Muslim Brotherhood won a crushing victory with 47.18 percent through the Freedom and Justice Party. The ultra-conservative Salafist Al-Nur party came second with 24.29 percent, with the liberal Wafd party finishing a distant third. The liberal Egyptian Bloc - which includes the Free Egyptians party of telecom magnate Naguib Sawiris who faces trial on allegations of insulting Islam - came fourth with around seven percent.

The 508-member assembly was dissolved in February by the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces that took power when Mubarak was forced to step down. The Brotherhood, Egypt’s best organised political grouping, had been widely expected to triumph in the polls but the surge by Al-Nur and high visibility of Salafi movements have raised fears about civil liberties and religious freedom. Elections for parliament’s upper house, the Shura Council, are to begin later this month and end in February. Then the two chambers will choose a 100-member panel to draft a new constitution. — AFP

Year of Dragon roars in Continued from Page 1 The dragon is the most favourable and revered sign in the 12-year Chinese zodiac - a symbol of royalty, fortune and power that is also used in other cultures that mark the Lunar New Year.

Hospitals across China and in Chinese communities are bracing for a baby boom as couples try to have a child this year. Nannies in Beijing and neighbouring Tianjin have hiked up their prices for 2012 and the beds in the capital’s Maternity Hospital are all booked up until August, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong even took advantage of the Dragon to urge the country’s residents to boost a stubbornly low birth rate, in an attempt to reduce the government’s reliance on foreign workers. “I fervently hope that this year will be a big Dragon Year for babies... This is critical to preserve a Singapore core in our socie-

ty,” he said in his new year message.

But in Hong Kong, where tens of thousands of pregnant mainlanders come to give birth every year to gain residency rights for their children, a Dragon baby boom could exacerbate problems of limited beds and soaring delivery costs.

According to some astrologers and geomancers, the Dragon may bring natural disasters and financial volatility to an already unstable world. Hong Kong feng shui master Anthony Cheng warned a “scandalous corruption case” would rock China in the second half of 2012 and said high-ranking Chinese officials would be forced to resign, jailed or even die.

But across Asia most ignored the doomsday predictions, instead praying, feasting and celebrating with their families. In Malaysia, where 25 percent of the population is ethnic Chinese, highways were clogged at the weekend while the capital Kuala Lumpur became almost deserted as people travelled

home. The new year began in tragedy for a family in central China’s Hunan province when a man set off explosives at a feast at his cousin’s house over a land dispute, killing himself and four others.

More than half of the population in South Korea, which also celebrates the Lunar New Year -some 31 million people - took to roads, railways and planes for the holiday. But stores in Seoul - normally quiet at this time of year - bustled with activity as tens of thousands of tourists from China swamped major shopping areas to spend an expected 100 billion won ($88 million) in January. “I feel like I’m walking on the street in China. There are so many of them,” Park Eun-Yong, a South Korean college student, told AFP. Chinese tourists also flocked to Tokyo, where interpreters in Mitsukoshi - one of Japan’s most prestigious department stores were on hand to help with purchases and announcements were made in Mandarin. — AFP

EU raises stakes with oil embargo on Iran Vote-buying ‘rampant’ in all districts Continued from Page 1 said the failure of the interior ministry to act justifies political questioning in the next Assembly because vote-buying is the most serious form of corruption.

Bushehri said that those who buy the votes of people now are ready to sell their own votes in the Assembly for money and thus all should unite to fight such illegal practices.

Meanwhile, former MP Saadoun Hammad was among eight candidates who pulled out of the race yesterday bringing the number of hopefuls who are still in the fray to 313, including 24 women, with just tomorrow as the last day for withdrawals. Hammad, currently at a London hospital preparing for a heart surgery, said in a statement that he issued a power of attorney to the Kuwaiti embassy in London allowing them to withdraw his candidacy.

The former lawmaker was among 13 ex-MPs who

were interrogated by the public prosecution over an alleged corruption scandal in which the former MPs allegedly accepted millions of dinars of illegal deposits in their bank accounts. Hammad had registered to contest the 2012 elections from the third constituency, moving from the fifth district from where he won in 2009. A larger number of candidates are expected to drop out today and tomorrow, reducing the number below the 300 mark.

In a related development, the interior ministry said yesterday it has mobilized more than 1,300 military personnel from the Interior Ministry for the purpose of providing full security to the ballot boxes on election day.

The newly-established election committee meanwhile said yesterday that the number of vote-buying cases it had received so far rose to 21, which have been passed on to the interior ministry for action. But the committee regretted that the interior ministry has so far failed to take any action against all those cases.

Syria rejects League’s call for power ...

Continued from Page 1 Tens of thousands turned out in the Damascus suburb of Douma yesterday under the protection of rebel Free Syrian Army fighters to mourn 11 people killed by the security forces, activists and a resident said. Security forces, apparently keen to avoid a confrontation, stayed outside the area, where fighting had erupted overnight.

The Sudanese general who heads the monitoring mission said violence had dipped in the past month, contradicting accounts by Syrian activists who say at least 600 people were killed. “After the arrival of the mission, the intensity of violence began to decrease,” Mohammed Al-Dabi told a news conference at the Cairo-based Arab League, saying the monitors had logged only 136 deaths on both sides since they began work. “Our job was to check what is happening on the ground and not investigate it,” said Dabi.

His role as chief monitor has displeased Assad’s critics given that he has held senior military and government posts in Sudan, including in Darfur, where the International Criminal Court prosecutor says the army carried out war crimes and the United Nations says 300,000 people may have died. Saudi Arabia, an adversary of Syria’s ally Iran, undermined the mission’s credibility when it withdrew its own monitors on Sunday, accusing Damascus of defying an earlier Arab peace plan. Responding to the new League plan unveiled in Cairo on Sunday, an official Syrian source told the state news agency SANA that the initiative, which told Assad to hand power to a deputy pending elections, was a “conspiracy against Syria”. “Syria rejects the decisions of the Arab League ministerial council ... and considers them a violation of its national sovereignty and a flagrant interference in its internal affairs,” the source said.

Rami Khouri, a Beirut-based commentator, said the unusually bold Arab initiative was clearly “bad news” for Assad, one of a string of authoritarian Arab leaders to face popular uprisings in the past year. Three have been overthrown. “The fact that Arab countries would propose such a clear intervention and essentially order him

to step aside and give him a mechanism to do so is quite a dramatic sign of how much credibility and legitimacy he has lost in the region,” he said.

The United Nations says more than 5,000 people have been killed by the security forces since an antiAssad revolt began in March. The authorities say they are fighting foreign-backed “terrorists” who have killed 2,000 soldiers and police. EU foreign ministers tightened sanctions against Syria yesterday, adding 22 people and eight entities to a list of banned people and groups, and said Assad’s repression was unacceptable.

“The message from the European Union is clear,” said the EU’s foreign policy chief, Catherine Ashton. “The crackdown must stop immediately.”

Splits among the League’s 22 members have complicated its diplomacy on Syria, but in the end only Lebanon refused to approve the latest proposal, although Algeria objected to taking the plan to the United Nations Security Council. Burhan Ghalioun, head of the main opposition Syrian National Council, welcomed the initiative, saying it “confirms that all Arab countries today consider the tyrannical regime of Bashar Al-Assad to be finished and that it must be replaced”.

The UN Security Council is also divided on how to respond, with Western powers demanding tougher sanctions and an arms embargo, measures opposed by Assad’s longstanding ally Russia. A Western diplomat said the tough Arab League stance would put more pressure on Moscow to drop its objections to Security Council action against the Syrian leadership. “The Russians are not putting all their chips on Assad,” the diplomat said.

Joshua Landis, a Syria expert at the University of Oklahama, said the Arab plan would extract no concessions from Assad and that the Security Council had no alternative strategy to offer. “Without the credible threat of foreign intervention, Assad continues to feel confident that he can contain, if not beat, the opposition,” Landis said. “The United Nations is as divided over Syria as the Arab League is.” — Reuters

Continued from Page 1 But the initial response out of Tehran, the Iranian capital, was harsh. Ramin Mehmanparast, a spokesman for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, called the economic sanctions “illogical and unfair” saying: “It is only understandable in the framework of propaganda and psychological war.” Mehmanparast was quoted by website of state broadcasting company as saying, “Pressure and sanctions against a nation that has a strong logic and reason for its policy is a failed method.” He said due to the world’s long-term need for energy, “It is not possible to impose sanctions on Iran,” which has huge resources of oil and gas.

And two Iranian lawmakers threatened that their country would close the strait in retaliation for the EU embargo. Lawmaker Mohammad Ismail Kowsari, deputy head of Iran’s influential committee on national security, said yesterday the strait “would definitely be closed if the sale of Iranian oil is violated in any way”.

The strait - just 54 km wide at its narrowest point - runs alongside Iran and is the only way to get from the Arabian Gulf to the open sea. Tensions over the potential impact its closure would have on global oil supplies and the price of crude have weighed heavily on consumers and traders. The US and Britain both have warned Iran not to disrupt the world’s oil supply.

Another Iranian lawmaker, Ali Adyani, sought to downplay the latest EU move, describing it as a “mere propaganda gesture,” according to the semiofficial Fars news agency. Former intelligence minister, Ali Falahaian, suggested Iran should stop all its crude exports “so that oil prices would go up and the Europeans’ sanctions would collapse.”

After news of the EU move, benchmark crude for March delivery rose 90 cents on the day to $99.23 a barrel in early morning European time in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Brent crude was down 35 cents at $109.51 a barrel on the ICE futures exchange in London. Many analysts doubt that Iran would maintain a blockade for long, but any supply shortages would cause world oil supplies to tighten temporarily. But Kowsari said that, in case of the strait’s closure, the US and its allies would not be able to reopen the route, and warned America not to attempt any “military adventurism.”

An American aircraft carrier, the USS Abraham Lincoln entered the Gulf on Sunday without incident to conduct scheduled maritime security operations, and US warships frequently operate in the Gulf. But when the carrier USS John Stennis departed the Gulf in late December, Iranian officials warned the US not to return.

The British Ministry of Defense said British and French warships joined the US carrier group transiting through the Strait of Hormuz “to underline the unwavering international commitment to maintaining rights of passage under international law”.

“USS Abraham Lincoln ... completed a regular and routine transit of the Strait of Hormuz... to conduct maritime security operations as scheduled,” Pentagon spokesman Navy Captain John Kirby said in an email to AFP. “The transit was completed as previously scheduled and without incident.” The carrier, which can have up to 80 planes and helicopters on board, was escorted by the guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St George and two destroyers.

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the sanctions are a severe mistake likely to worsen tensions. “It’s apparent that in this case there is open pressure and diktat, aimed at ‘punishing’ Iran for uncooperative behavior.

This is a deeply mistaken policy, as we have told our European partners more than once,” the ministry said in a statement. “Under pressure of this sort, Iran will not make any concessions or any corrections to its policies,” it said.

The EU sanctions include an include an immediate embargo on new contracts for crude oil and petroleum products. Existing contracts with Iran will be allowed to run until July. Last month, the US enacted new sanctions targeting Iran’s central bank and its ability to sell petroleum abroad, but it has delayed implementing the sanctions for at least six months, worried about sending the price of oil higher at a time when the global economy is struggling. Other countries are steering clear of such measures altogether. China also does not support an embargo, and Japan’s finance minister, Jun Azumi, has expressed concern about the effectiveness of US sanctions on Iran - not to mention their potential impact on Japanese banks.

Some 80 percent of Iran’s foreign revenue comes from oil exports and any sanctions that affect its ability to export oil would hit its economy hard. With about 4 million barrels per day, Iran is the second largest producer in OPEC. “It means that we will paralyze, bit by bit, Iran’s economic activity and keep the country from using a major part of its resources,” said French Foreign Minister Alain Juppe. “You can be skeptical, but it is better than making war.”

At the heart of the dispute is international unease about Iran’s nuclear program. Iran says its nuclear program is peaceful, but the United States and other nations suspect it is trying to build nuclear weapons.

Iran is now under several rounds of UN sanctions for not being more forthcoming about its nuclear program.

Late yesterday, British Prime Minister David Cameron, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy issued a joint statement urging Iran to suspend its sensitive nuclear activities. “Our message is clear,” the statement said. “We have no quarrel with the Iranian people. But the Iranian leadership has failed to restore international confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of its nuclear program. We will not accept Iran acquiring a nuclear weapon.”

Iran’s denials of military intent have utterly failed to convince EU officials. “The recent start of operations of enrichment of uranium to a level of up to 20 percent in the deeply buried underground facility in Fordo near Qom further aggravates concerns about the possible military dimensions to Iran’s nuclear program,” the foreign ministers said in a statement yesterday. That accelerated enrichment is in violation of six UN Security Council resolutions and 11 resolutions by the board of the International Atomic Energy Agency, “and contributes to rising tensions in the region,” the statement said. British Foreign Secretary William Hague called the embargo part of “an unprecedented set of sanctions”. “I think this shows the resolve of the European Union on this issue,” Hague said.

The EU also decided to freeze the assets of the Iranian central bank. Together, the two measures are intended not only to pressure Iran to agree to talks but also to choke off funding for its nuclear activities. Before yesterday’s decision, negotiators worked hard to try to ensure that the embargo would punish only Iran - and not EU member Greece, which is in dire financial trouble and relies heavily on low-priced Iranian oil. The foreign ministers agreed to a review of the effects of the sanctions, to be completed by May 1. And they agreed in principle to make up the costs Greece incurs as a result of the embargo.— Agencies

14

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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Issues

Iran’s softer words don’t mean nuke shift

By Robin Pomeroy ran has stepped back from a threat to close the Strait of Hormuz, but while its softened rhetoric appears to be aimed at de -escalating military tensions, it does not indicate any change of stance on its nuclear program. “Iran’s leadership has a strong sense of s e l f - p re s e r v a tion,” said Robert Smith, a consultant at Facts Global Energy. “The comments can likely be interpreted as a sign of cooler heads prevailing.” A senior commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Saturday the likely return of US naval vessels to the region was “not a new issue and ... should be interpreted as part of their permanent presence”.

That was a significant shift from earlier this month when Tehran said the USS John C Stennis aircraft carrier, which left at the end of December during Iranian naval manoeuvres, should not return - an order interpreted by some observers in Iran and Washington as a blanket threat to any US carriers. Only a few weeks ago Tehran was threatening to close the Strait of Hormuz, used by a third of the world’s seaborne oil trade, if new sanctions cripple its oil exports - exactly the effect Washington and Europe are aiming for. European Union foreign ministers met yesterday to agree a ban on importing oil from Iran and sanctions signed by US President Barack Obama on New Year’s Eve aim to make it impossible for countries around the world to buy Iranian crude. Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Rahimi, who had said Iran would not allow “even one drop of oil” through the strait if oil sanctions are imposed, was less fiery in remarks reported on Sunday. “Today they (the West) have launched a new game against Iran but it is clear that we will resist against their excessive demands,” the official IRNA news agency quoted him as saying.

But while Iran may be reining in its most hawkish rhetoric, and calling for a resumption of talks with world powers that stalled a year ago, it is no closer to offering concessions on the nuclear issue that could lead to an easing of sanctions. One Western diplomat in Tehran compared Iran’s offer of talks to its position before the last round of sanctions were imposed in mid-2010. “They were saying then: ‘Let’s have talks,’ but it wasn’t followed up by any kind of concrete commitment,” he said, adding that, despite several public declarations of goodwill, Tehran has yet to deliver a reply to a letter Ashton sent to Tehran on Oct 21 offering to resume talks.

“Iran is not softening its stance,” said Meir Javedanfar, Iran analyst and co-author of “The Nuclear Sphinx of Tehran”. “It’s changing its strategy after realising that its illtimed and exaggerated threat to close the Strait of Hormuz in case of sanctions caused more damage to its stance and position than anyone else.” The change in Iran’s rhetoric could add to the bearish direction of oil prices which were down on Friday due to signs of reduced demand. “The result of Iran softening its stance, amongst other factors, will contribute to an easing of oil markets,” Smith said, adding that the impact will be limited. “If recent events are any indication, the markets have listened to Iran’s rhetoric so many times that its impact has become quite muted compared to the reactions of, say, five years ago.” While the likelihood of imminent naval clashes in the Gulf may have receded, Iran could yet see through its threat of closing Hormuz in the event of an Israeli air strike on its nuclear facilities, Javedanfar said.

“Iran could still block the strait of Hormuz in case of a preemptive strike against it. “This is a scenario which nobody could or should ignore, despite the fact that the recent threat to close the strait in case of sanctions turned out to be a bluff.” — Reuters

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Suu Kyi becomes key to complex politics

By Didier Lauras ung San Suu Kyi is playing an increasingly important role in Myanmar, helping shore up a fragile alliance of former junta generals whose recent reforms have amazed observers, analysts say. After half a century of total military domination, the Southeast Asian nation held widelycriticised elections in 2010 after ordering some of its members to shed their army uniforms to lead a “civilian” government. Suu Kyi, released from house arrest days after that poll, has since taken a pivotal position, following talks with President Thein Sein last summer and her subsequent decision to run in an April 1 by-election.

The 66-year-old’s participation in the upcoming vote is one of a series of positive changes that have marked a break with the old junta approach to leadership and led to thawing relations with the West, which has imposed tough sanc tions on the isolated nation.

Observers say power in the new regime balances between two key former generals turned eager reformers - the president and Shwe Mann, the speaker of the lower house of parliament - with Suu Kyi becoming a third key player. “ The new generation (of military leaders) has come to terms with her and she has come to terms with the new generation,” said Aung Tun Thet, who works as an advisor for the UN in Yangon after many years abroad. “For the first time now, I see an opportunity for change you get once in a lifetime.”

Shwe Mann, previously the junta number three, has on several occasions said Suu Kyi would be welcome in parliament. The comments mark a dramatic political rebirth for a woman who was so hated by former strongman Than

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Shwe that she spent most of the last two decades locked up. Than Shwe is officially described as retired, but many believe he is still relatively influential.

Observers stress that the current reform process is very fragile, with a small minority in the

army outraged - or scared - by the changes. While a cabal close to Myanmar’s top leaders pushes for more transformations, many are cautiously waiting to see whether the reformers will succeed. The new system will soon need economic success and investment to win stronger popular backing hence the regime’s desire for Western support and the lifting of sanctions. And this gives massive leverage to Suu Kyi, whose iconic status both in the European Union and the United States has given her a very power ful influence on public opinion. “I wouldn’t say we’re giving her a total veto but to the extent that she has confidence in the process, we will have confidence in the process of change in Myanmar,” US Senator Joe Lieberman told repor ters in Bangkok recently.

In recent months, the opposition party leader has been an indispensable interlocutor during the visits of foreign dignitaries.

And she is careful not to criticise the government.

“She transformed from an icon to a politician with all the risks and contradictions that entails,” said an observer who visits her regularly. Shwe Mann’s son Toe Naing Mann, who is helping his father in his new role, believes that the common political goals uniting Suu Kyi

and the two top regime reformers, all in their late 60s, are the key to the country ’s future. “ The three of them can work now together for about five years.

It is their first chance and also their only chance. If they cannot cash in this opportunity, they will be held responsible,” he told AFP. Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy (NLD) decided in May 2010 to boycott the general elections that year. Her talks with Thein Sein have since convinced her to rejoin mainstream politics, to the point of rumours she will soon be in the government, speculation that she has not ruled out.

As the generals become heralds of parliamentary democracy, albeit with a legislature still dominated by the army, she is quickly learning a new role. “Suu Kyi is in uncharted waters,” said the observer.

But she is clearly determined to remain leader of the democracy movement. This is acknowledged, despite some bitterness, by members of the National Democratic Force (NDF), which split from the NLD in 2010 to contest the November election, convinced that the boycott was a mistake. NDF head Khin Maung Swe, who was in prison for around 20 years for his involvement in the NLD, does not understand why Suu Kyi has not been in contact since she decided to run in the April by-election.

He said he would have appreciated her admission that he was probably right, a year and a half ago. “They have no guts to say to us: ‘Guys you were right, we were wrong at the time’,” he said. “She is too far away above our heads, she has no time to see us.” But he admits she is “of course” the patron saint of the opposition. “She is the only person who can have an influence all over the people.” — AFP

Arab plan signals end of Assad era

By Rita Daou he Arab League’s latest roadmap for an end to the crisis in Syria signals that regional states see the Assad era drawing to a close, although it could yet be a slow process, analysts said yesterday. “I think the Arab League yesterday unexpectedly pulled the rabbit out of the hat,” said Salman Shaikh, director of the Brookings Doha Center. “The political track that they suggested is highly significant... It’s effectively signaling that (Syrian President) Bashar al-Assad has to step down,” he said. The 22-member Arab League, which in December sent a team of observers to unrest-swept Syria, on Sunday asked the United Nations to support a new plan for ending the bloodshed.

Damascus swiftly dismissed the plan, which would see Assad transferring power to his deputy and a national unity government within two months, as meddling in its internal affairs and an attack on Syrian sovereignty. Experts say the plan, adopted unanimously at a ministerial meeting in Cairo with only Lebanon abstaining, signals that Syria’s neighbours are preparing for a post-Assad era. “They are no longer talking about the observer mission” to Syria, Shaikh said, referring to the Sudan-led team which this month released a report on its widely-criticised mission without fanfare. “The effort should now be to rally the international community behind this plan for a post-Assad transition in Syria,” Shaikh told AFP. However, there is no guarantee that the UN Security Council will unite on a Syria resolution, with China and Russia refusing to condemn the regime’s crackdown on

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a 10-month revolt. “The Arab League will need to do a lot of very hard behind the scenes, diplomatic work including engaging in a strategic dialogue with the Russians and the Chinese,” Shaikh said. While the Arab League’s call for Assad to prepare to cede power marked the first unanimous regional stand on Syria, experts said it still fell short of an unequivocal call for the embattled strongman to step down.

It was “an advanced step towards moving into the post-Assad phase, although there are currently few indicators that any real change will happen in the near future,” said Paul Salem, head of the Beirut-based Carnegie Middle East Center. “The Arab League plan is significant because it offers a third way, a solution that marks neither a complete victory for the Assad regime nor a complete victory for the protesters,” Salem told AFP. The Syria crisis, which erupted in mid-March, has left more than 5,400 people dead, according to the United Nations. As the death toll rises without international intervention, analysts warn that the Arab blueprint may remain on the backburner for several months without any immediate change on the political scene in Damascus. “The Syrian regime’s rejection of the Arab League plan will probably translate into more bloodshed and repression, as we’ve seen in the past,” said Hilal Khashan, political science professor at the American University of Beirut. “The Arab League has given up on hope that Assad will reform ... But it has not yet put forward a plan for Assad to sign nor asked him to vow he will step down,” Khashan told AFP. “This is the start of what will likely prove a very long process,” he added. “But there is no turning back.” — AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

sp orts Spurs’ Redknapp in court LONDON: Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp was in court yesterday to face accusations of tax evasion during his time in charge of Portsmouth. Redknapp and former Portsmouth chairman Milan Mandaric are charged with cheating the public revenue. The case at Southwark Crown Court in London focuses on payments totaling $295,000 (225,000 euros) allegedly made by Mandaric to Redknapp.

Both men deny charges of tax evasion.

Redknapp, dressed in dark suit and blue tie, was watched from the public gallery by his son Jamie, a former Liverpool and Tottenham player who is now a TV pundit, as proceedings began to select a jury for the trial. Judge Anthony Leonard warned jurors to “leave prejudice or favor behind” as a panel of eight men and four women were sworn in.

“The defendants are two well-known personalities within the world of football,” he said. “It can prejudice if you hold such allegiances or prejudices towards clubs that the defendants were or are presently involved with.” — AFP

Jayawardene reappointed

F1: Raikkonen back behind the wheel VALENCIA: Kimi Raikkonen’s Formula One comeback picked up speed yesterday when the Finn got back behind the wheel of a two-year-old Renault grand prix car at the Valencia circuit in eastern Spain.

The ‘Iceman’, 2007 world champion with Ferrari and winner of 18 races in his time with the Italian team and McLaren, is returning to Formula One this season after two years in the world rally championship. Lotus, formerly Renault, said in a statement that the 32year-old aimed to drive as many laps as possible in the two days in Valencia to get acquainted with his new team and reacclimatize

himself with a Formula One car.

They issued a picture of Raikkonen, who last drove a Formula One car in 2009, on his first lap in the R30 - painted in Lotus’s black-and-gold livery - at the Ricardo Tormo track.

The new Lotus will be launched on Feb 5 before the first official test of the season at the Jerez track in southern Spain starts on Feb 7.

Teams are not allowed to test up-to-date cars outside of official sessions which meant Raikkonen could drive only an older machine using demonstration tyres. The season starts in Australia on March 18. — Reuters

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Tillakaratne Dilshan has resigned from the captaincy and former skipper Mahela Jayawardene has been reappointed to the role, the island nation’s sports minister said yesterday.

“Dilshan has sent his resignation letter so therefore the selectors met today and appointed Mahela Jayawardene as the captain and Angelo Mathews as the vice captain,” Spor ts Minister Mahindananda Aluthgamage said. Dilshan quit a day after returning from South Africa where Sri Lanka lost the three-match test series 2-1 and five-match one-day series 3-2.

Tak ing over from Kumar Sangak k ara after a six-wicket defeat in the 2011 World Cup final against India, Dilshan led the team to England, South Africa and in a home series against Australia but failed to win a single test or oneday series. Jayawardene captained the team for more than three years from 2006 before Sangakkara took over. — Reuters

Cook aims for special 100th

KUWAIT: Photo shows shooting officials and shooters upon their arriving at Kuwait international Airport. (Inset) Mariam Irzouqi speaking to the media.

Kuwait’s shooters to receive monthly pay

By Abdellatif Sharaa KUWAIT: Arab and Kuwait Shooting Federations Secretary General Obaid AlOsaimi yesterday announced that the board headed by Sheikh Salman Al-Sabah has decided to make a monthly payment for the shooters who qualified for the London 2012 Olympics. This decision comes after their outstanding per formance during the Asian Shooting Championship in Doha, Qatar. He said the payments will be made monthly until the time of the Olympics - to encourage the

shooters. The shooting delegation returned from Doha Sunday evening and was received by the President of Asian and Kuwait Shooting Federations and Vice President of ISSF Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem AlHumoud Al-Sabah and other shooting officials, including the President of the Arab Shooting Federation Engineer Duaij Al-Otaibi.

Kuwait’s shooters were able to collect one gold, 5 silver and one bronze medals, while the juniors left a very good impression in the skeet and trap.

Engineer Duaij Al-Otaibi congratulated the

Duaij Al-Otaibi welcoming Kuwait shooters

shooters for their outstanding performances especially Fuhaid Al-Daihani who took the bronze medal during the Sydney 2000 Olympics, and hopes he gets the gold medal in London. The head of the delegation Mohammad Al-Ghurba expressed satisfaction with the results. Meanwhile, Mariam Irzouqi said she did expect to qualify, but with constant support and encouragement from officials “I was able to win the silver medal and make it to London”. She said she will do her best to get the best results during the Olympics.

Mariam Irzouqi’s sister seen with her baby upon Mariam’s arrival on Sunday at the Kuwait airport.

Aj-mauled England look to bounce back ABU DHABI: England need a quick solution to their frailties against off-spinner Saeed Ajmal when they face Pakistan in the second Test at the Abu Dhabi Stadium starting tomorrow. Andrew Strauss’s men, who are in danger of losing their first Test series after being unbeaten in the last nine, were mauled by the 34-year-old spinner in the first match in Dubai, where they lost by 10 wickets inside three days. Ajmal took a career-best 7-55 to demolish England for 192 in the first innings, before half-centuries from Mohammad Hafeez, Taufiq Umar, Adnan Akmal and Misbah-ul Haq gave Pakistan a lead of 146.

Paceman Umar Gul, who took four early wickets, then combined with Ajmal and leftarm spinner Abdul Rehman to wreck England a second time for 160 before the openers knocked off the 15 runs needed to go one up in the three-Test series. England can take solace from the fact that Abu Dhabi’s pitch offers very slow turn and both the Tests played here ended in draws, the latest in October last year when Pakistan let off Sri Lanka by dropping seven second innings catches.

Despite the slowness of the pitch, Ajmal will again be a big threat but the England skipper was confident his players could stage a fightback. “I don’t think it is a huge challenge, there will be a huge feeling that we haven’t given a good account of ourselves and that will be a good motivation for us to come back stronger,” said Strauss, whose England side last lost a Test series 2009, in the West Indies. The double capitu-

lation in Dubai prompted questions about the tourists’ approach to Ajmal, and Strauss admitted his batsmen had made mistakes against the spinner.

“I think couple of us contributed and allowed him to put even more pressure on the batsmen coming in the first innings. The ball wasn’t turning a huge amount,” he said of the Dubai pitch where England’s Graeme

ABU DHABI: Pakistan’s cricketer Saeed Ajmal delivers the ball during a practice session at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi yesterday. — AFP

Swann managed 4-107. England, currently the number one ranked side in the world, have not lost two Tests in a row since 2008 and Strauss said the team was determined to bounce back in Abu Dhabi. Left-arm spinner Monty Panesar missed out in Dubai, and England look likely to go with the same combination in Abu Dhabi of three pacemen and lone spinner Swann.

Pakistan may consider replacing batsman Asad Shafiq with the more aggressive Umar Akmal. Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq played down a row around Ajmal’s bowling action, triggered by former England paceman Bob Willis.

Ajmal’s action was reported in 2009 before it was cleared by the International Cricket Council (ICC). “He is cleared by the ICC and he is now playing for almost fourfive years in international cricket,” said Misbah, whose side are the “home” team in the series, which is being played in the United Arab Emirates over security fears in Pakistan.

“Everyone should just admit now that he is a very good bowler and has certain variations which he is bowling.” Misbah said his team will be ready for England’s backlash.

“When you are number one team in the world there is something that makes you number one in the world, they have good quality cricketers and they are fighters and they can really come hard, but we are ready for that,” he said. The third and final Test will be played in Dubai from February 3-7. The Tests will be followed by four one-day and three Twenty20 internationals. — AFP

ABU DHABI: Alastair Cook is hoping he and opening partner Andrew Strauss will provide England with a good platform when they walk for a 100th time together in the second Test against Pakistan starting here from tomorrow.

Cook and Strauss will become the fourth opening pair to complete 100 or more innings together in all Tests-behind West Indian Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes, Sri Lanka’s Marvan Atapattu and Sanath Jayasuriya and Australia’s Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer.

But Cook and Strauss face a huge challenge from Pakistan bowlers who restricted them to stands of ten and six during their ten wicket annihilation in the first Test in Dubai last week. Pakistan lead the three-Test series 1-0. Strauss fell to off-spinner Saeed Ajmal for 19 and Cook was dismissed by Mohammad Hafeez for three in the first innings while paceman Umar Gul accounted for England openers in the second innings.

Strauss made six and Cook five.

Cook said openers failed to provide the kind of beginning the pair are used to giving in the past. “It’s a great thing to work now, I didn’t know that it’s our 100th time,” Cook said yesterday as England prepare to avoid their first series defeat since going down 1-0 to the West Indies in the Caribbean in 2009.

“He’s got a great record and proved that over a number of years, it’s our job with top of the order to lay out the platform, we didn’t do that in Dubai and that’s why we didn’t get good totals,” said

Cook of England’s low scores of 192 and 160. “It’s always nice to our stability with Strauss at the top of order. We have had some great moments. We are pretty similar in character and we do enjoy batting together and hopefully on the 100th time we will do something special,” said Cook.

Cook, who hit a century in England’s two wins in their lead-up games to the series, blamed poor shot selection by the batsmen. “We made some poor decision making, to score runs you have to make good decisions for long periods of time, we didn’t do that,” said Cook whose average for the opening wicket with Strauss is 42.90. “It was just a poor performance. The challenge for us now is to put that right, and hopefully we can do that in the second Test,” said Cook, whose team has not lost two Tests in a row since South Africa did that in England in July 2008.

Cook said England have bounced back in the past after losing the first match. “Of course, when you lose and you lose heavily, naturally it does dent confidence, but if you look up history, when we have produced a poor performance we’ve managed to bounce back well, hopefully we can do it this time. “You don’t become bad players and a bad team overnight, whatever you read or whatever people say about you. We know we have some world class players in the team, it’s about delivering over the next five days,” said Cook. — AFP

India mull 2 spinners ADELAIDE: India are considering playing two spinners in the fourth and final test against Australia and have brought leftarmer Pragyan Ojha into the squad for the match, stand-in captain Virender Sehwag said yesterday. Right-arm off spinner Ravi Ashwin also returns to the 12-man squad after missing the third test in Perth, where the tourists were thrashed by an innings and 37 runs on a lively wicket to go 3-0 down in the series.

“We’ll decide in the morning,” Sehwag told a news conference on the eve of the match. “It depends on the wicket, if we think it’s dry enough and there’s help for spinners, we will definitely go with two spinners.” The wicket looked to have little green on it on Monday and with temperatures reaching the mid 30s Celcius in Adelaide is likely to dry out further before play commences today. Sehwag, leading the side in place of banned Mahendra Singh Dhoni, said medium pace bowler R Vinay Kumar, a debutant in the third test at Perth who took one wicket for 73 runs, had been dropped.

Dhoni was banned for the match by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after his team’s failure to maintain an

acceptable over rate at the WACA. Wriddhiman Saha, who played just one test two years ago, is also included in the squad and almost certain to replace his skipper behind the stumps as the tourists look to restore some pride after losing seven successive overseas tests.

Ojha is the most experienced spinner in the touring squad with 14 tests under his belt but moved down in the pecking order after the lanky Ashwin took nine wickets in his first test against West Indies in New Delhi earlier this year.

Ashwin also scored a century in Mumbai against West Indies and was named Man of the Series but has struggled on the pacey Australian wickets, taking four wickets at a cost of nearly 300 runs in the first two tests.

Off spinner Harbhajan Singh, once the nemesis of Australian batsmen, was omitted from the touring squad a f te r a r u n o f p o o r fo r m . S q u a d Virender Sehwag (captain), Gautam G ambhir, R ahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, Virat Kohli, Wriddhiman Saha, Zaheer Khan, Ishant Sharma, Pragyan Ojha, Ravi Ashwin, Umesh Yadav. — Reuters

ADELAIDE: Indian replacement wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha practices ahead of the fourth cricket test match against Australia at the Adelaide Oval yesterday. — AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

sp orts

Bucks beat the Heat Bloodied Hibbert lifts Pacers over Lakers MIAMI: Brandon Jennings scored 23 points and Ersan Ilyasova added 16 as the Milwaukee Bucks held Miami to 37 percent shooting in a 91-82 victory over the Heat on Sunday. It was the second straight road win for Milwaukee, which started the season 0-8 away from home. Andrew Bogut scored 13 points for the Bucks, and Shaun Livingston and Stephen Jackson each had 10. LeBron James finished with 28 points and 13 rebounds for Miami, which had won three straight.

Chris Bosh scored 23 points for the Heat. Milwaukee turned 22 Miami turnovers into 22 points and the Heat tied an NBA season-low with nine assists, one shy of matching the franchise record. It was the first time Miami lost this season in seven games without Dwyane Wade, out again with a sprained right ankle.

LOS ANGELES: Indiana Pacers guard Darren Collison (top) puts up a shot as Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant defends during the second half of their NBA basketball game on Sunday, Jan 22, 2012. — AP

Patriots in Super Bowl FOXBOROUGH: The New England Patriots beat the stunned Ravens 23-20 in the American Football Conference championship game Sunday after Baltimore’s Billy Cundiff missed a 32-yard field goal attempt with 11 seconds remaining that would have leveled the score. Brady scored the winning touchdown when he leaped over the vaunted Ravens defense in the fourth quarter.

On his 1-yard scoring dive with 11:29 left, Brady took a huge hit from Ravens star linebacker Ray Lewis, then emphatically spiked the ball as he walked away.

Earlier, Brady showed his fire by barking at Lewis following a hard tackle on a 4-yard run. Next up as the Patriots chase their fourth Super Bowl trophy in Brady and coach Bill Belichick’s tenure in New England is the New York Giants, which beat the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC championship game later Sunday. The Super Bowl is Feb 5 in Indianapolis.

In their last trip to the big game, the Patriots had an 18-0 record when they were stunned by the Giants four years ago. They won the NFL championship for the 2001, 2003 and 2004 seasons. This time, they had to the Sup Bowl with a 10-game winning streak.

Brady’s fifth trip to the Super Bowl will equal John Elway’s achievement with Denver. “We’re going to try to go out and kick some butt in a couple of weeks,” Brady said. Before Cundiff missed, the Ravens had a chance to go ahead two plays earlier, but wide receiver Lee Evans was stripped of the ball in the end zone by backup cornerback Sterling Moore, who earlier was victimized for a touchdown that gave Baltimore the lead 17-16.

Then Cundiff misfired, and the Patriots stormed off their sideline in celebration as the chilled crowd roared. A three-time NFL champion, Brady didn’t throw for a touchdown for the first time in 36 games, although he did pass for 239 yards. “Well, I (stunk) pretty bad today, but our defense saved us,” Brady said. “I’m going to try to go out and do a better job in a couple of weeks, but I’m proud of this team, my teammates.”

Brady needed help not only from Cundiff’s botched kick in guiding the Patriots (15-3) to their fifth AFC title in 11 seasons, but from New England’s maligned defense. “We stepped up,” Pro Bowl nose tackle Vince Wilfork said. “We all stepped up big time.

Being in this situation is a great moment. You have to cherish this moment.” The Patriots shut down Ray Rice, the league’s total yardage leader, who was limited to 78 yards. Brandon Spikes made a fourth-quarter interception of Joe Flacco, who played well before that and threw for two touchdowns. And when the Ravens (13-5) were threatening to score a late touchdown to win their first conference title in 11 years, New England clamped down. “It’s two great football teams, two gladiators, I guess, just kind of going at each other at the end, and I’m proud of our guys,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “You know, we’ve got 53 guys, mighty men, as we like to call them - and they fought, and we came up a little bit short, as 53. You know, 53 win and 53 lose.” With Rice a nonfactor, Baltimore had to rely on Flacco, and he delivered one of his best performances.

Flacco has led the Ravens into the playoffs in all four of his pro seasons, but not to the Super Bowl. He was 22 for 36 for 306 yards and touchdowns of 6 yards to Dennis Pitta and 29 to rookie Torrey Smith. The loss hardly could be blamed on Flacco. Operating against a maligned secondary missing its top cornerback, Kyle Arrington, who left in the second quarter with an eye injury, Flacco gave Baltimore its first lead.

His short pass on third down to explosive receiver Smith turned into a 29-yard scamper down the right sideline after Moore completely whiffed on the tackle.

Danny Woodhead’s fumble on the ensuing kickoff set up Baltimore at the Patriots 28, but a third-down sack forced Cundiff to kick a 39-yard field goal, making it 20-16. New England didn’t flinch. Brady took the Patriots 63 yards in 11 plays, and seemed to score on a 1-yard run. The call was overruled by replay, though, and on fourth-down, he dived just high enough over the line for the winning points. “Those guys fought all year, and just like today, it wasn’t always perfect, but they fought to the final gun and we came out on top,” Belichick said. — AP

PACERS 98, LAKERS 96 At Los Angeles, Roy Hibbert battled through the discomfort of a possible broken nose to finish with a team-high 18 points and eight rebounds as the Indiana Pacers edged the Los Angeles Lakers 98-96 on Sunday.

The 25-year-old centre was bloodied in the first quarter during a foul on Lakers star Kobe Bryant but remained in the game. He shot nine-of-13 from the field and scored eight of his points in the final quarter as Indiana snapped the Lakers’ nine-game win streak at home.

A half dozen players finished in double figures as the Pacers used a balanced attack to beat the Lakers and win their seventh game in the last nine. Bryant scored a game-high 33 points for the Lakers who suffered just their second loss at home this season. With the Pacers leading 95-94 in the fourth, Bryant ran the clock down and Los Angeles had a chance to take a one-point lead with 10 seconds left but Derek Fisher’s air ball failed to connect. Guard Darren Collison sank a pair of free throws on the next possession to give Indiana a 97-94 lead with 8.7 seconds left. Lakers Pau Gasol capped the scoring with a layup as the final buzzer sounded. Collison finished with 12 points for the Pacers, who recorded two wins and one loss on their three-game road trip. Danny Granger (16), David West (15), Paul George (13) and George Hill (11) also reached double figures. The Pacers now return to

Indianapolis to host Orlando before heading off on another three-game road swing against Chicago, Boston and Orlando. The Lakers struggled at home for the first time this season since losing to the Chicago Bulls in their season opener. Los Angeles shot just 22 percent from the three-point line and were outrebounded 50-43 on Sunday. They have lost three-consecutive games on the road and are off to their worst start on the road since the 2002-03 season.

CELTICS 100, WIZARDS 94 At Washington, Paul Pierce had season highs with 34 points and 10 assists, and equaled his season best with eight rebounds, to lead Boston past Washington.

The Celtics won for the second time in three games despite playing most of the game without a pair of starting guards. Point guard Rajon Rondo was out for the second straight game with a sprained right wrist, and Boston lost starting guard Ray Allen as well when he jammed his left ankle in the first half. Pierce stepped in and made up for their absence, going 10 for 15 from the floor and 12 of 15 from the line. He also had a season-high three steals. John Wall had 27 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists for the Wizards.

CLIPPERS 103, RAPTORS 91 At Los Angeles, Mo Williams scored Los Angeles’ first 17 points of the fourth quarter and finished with 26 points as the Clippers sent Toronto to its eighth straight loss. Blake Griffin had 18 points and nine rebounds, DeAndre Jordan added 16 points and 16 rebounds, and Chauncey Billups had 14 assists for the Clippers, playing their fifth straight game without point guard Chris Paul because of a left hamstring strain. Leandro Barbosa scored 19 points for the Raptors.

NETS 97, BOBCATS 87 At Newark, New Jersey, Deron Williams had 19 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists to lead New Jersey past Charlotte. MarShon Brooks added 20 points for the Nets, and Anthony Morrow had 19. Rookie Kemba Walker led the Bobcats with 16 points, six rebounds and four assists. — Agencies

NBA results/standings NBA results and standings on Sunday: Boston 100, Washington 94; LA Clippers 103, Toronto 91; New Jersey 97, Charlotte 87; Milwaukee 91, Miami 82; Indiana 98, LA Lakers 96.

Philadelphia Boston NY Knicks New Jersey Toronto Chicago Indiana Milwaukee Cleveland Detroit Orlando Atlanta Miami Charlotte Washington

Oklahoma City Denver Utah Portland Minnesota LA Clippers LA Lakers Phoenix Sacramento Golden State Memphis San Antonio Dallas Houston New Orleans

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L PCT 11 5 .688 6 9 .400 6 10 .375 5 12 .294 4 13 .235 Central Division 15 3 .833 11 4 .733 6 9 .400 6 9 .400 4 13 .235 Southeast Division 11 4 .733 12 5 .706 11 5 .688 3 14 .176 2 14 .125 Western Conference Northwest Division 13 3 .813 12 5 .706 10 5 .667 9 7 .563 7 9 .438 Pacific division 9 5 .643 10 8 .556 6 9 .400 6 11 .353 5 10 .333 Southwest Division 9 6 .600 10 7 .588 10 7 .588 9 7 .563 3 13 .188

GB 4.5 5 6.5 7.5 2.5 7.5 7.5 10.5 0.5 9 9.5

1.5 2.5 4 6 1 3.5 4.5 4 0.5 6.5

Giants edge 49ers 20-17 Gutsy Giants ride momentum to NFL title game SAN FRANCISCO: The New York Giants advanced to the Super Bowl with a 20-17 overtime victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in the National Football Conference championship game. A 31-yard field goal by Lawrence Tynes at a damp Candlestick Park sealed a hard-fought victory for the Giants, who last won the Super Bowl over the New England Patriots four years ago with an improbable run to the title as a wild card. Tynes, who also kicked a game-winning field goal to send New York to their previous Super Bowl, split the uprights after the Giants had gained a decisive turnover in San Francisco territory after a fumbled punt return by 49ers receiver Kyle Williams.

“I was so nervous today before the game just anticipating this kind of game,” said Tynes.

“I’m usually pretty cool but there was something about tonight that I knew I was going to have to make a kick.” The Giants, who made the playoffs after winning the regular season finale three weeks ago, will face the American Football Conference champion Patriots in the National Football League’s title game on Feb 5 in Indianapolis. For much of a wet and windy afternoon in their formidable fortress of Candlestick Park, the 49ers appeared likely to withstand everything the Giants threw at them.

The home team applied early pressure as steady drizzle enveloped the stadium before quarterback Alex Smith connected with tight end Vernon Davis for a 73-yard touchdown, sending the home crowd wild with delight.

Davis, hit with a personal foul for excessive celebration on a camera stage in the end zone, came close to straying out of bounds as he

powered down the right side but the touchdown was upheld after the play was reviewed.

San Francisco’s defense kept the Giants at bay for the rest of the first quarter but New York responded early in the second, Eli Manning hitting fullback Bear Pascoe with a short pass to the right for a touchdown to cap a 10-play drive over 69 yards.

BRUISING DEFENSE Both teams were defending tightly but, with Manning finding his groove, the Giants advanced 51 yards in 10 plays before edging ahead 10-7 just before half-time when Tynes kicked a 31-yard field goal. Smith was sacked early in the third quarter but, after the 49ers had again cramped the Giants offense, he hit Davis for a 28-yard touchdown in the left corner for a 14-10 lead. San Francisco carried that lead into the final quarter and stayed in control with their bruising defense before the fumble

by Williams, hit on his knee by the bouncing ball after a Giants punt, led to a turnover.

New York took advantage as Manning’s laser-like arm finally found wide receiver Mario Manningham for a 17-yard touchdown after a superbly orchestrated six-play drive. A 25-yard field goal by 49ers kicker David Akers levelled the score at 17-17 with 5:43 left before the game spilled into nerve-jangling overtime and sudden-death. “We knew it was going to be a tough game against this defense,” said Manning, who was sacked six times and completed 32 of 58 passes for 316 yards and two touchdowns. “We hit a couple big plays and the receivers stepped up and had some great plays and played tough all game.” — Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO: San Francisco 49ers’ Kyle Williams (10) fumbles as he is hit by New York Giants’ Jacquian Williams (57) during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game on Sunday, Jan 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. — AP

Barcelona to change strategy against Real

MALAGA: Barcelona’s Argentinean forward Lionel Messi (right) scores against Malaga’s Argentinean goalkeeper Willy Caballero during their Spanish League football match, on January 22, 2012 at La Rosaleda stadium in Malaga. Barcelona won 1-4. - AFP

MADRID: Real Madrid will likely abandon its defensive strategy and go on the attack against Barcelona in the second leg of the Copa del Rey quarterfinals tomorrow. Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has come under fire for his choice of tactics following last week’s 2-1 loss to Barcelona, with the Portuguese coach repeatedly jeered during a 4-1 league win over Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.

But that victory displayed the potent attack available to Madrid, which leads Barcelona by five points in the Spanish league after scoring 67 goals in 19 games to complete the first half of the season.

Still, Mourinho did not apologize for Madrid’s approach to the first leg, which has polarized much of the Portuguese coach’s support, not only among fans but also the usually staunch Madrid press. On Sunday, Marca newspaper reported divisions inside the club’s dressing room while Mourinho’s name was jeered throughout the Bilbao match at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium for the first time since his arrival in 2010. “ They lead the league, they can still reach the semifinals of the Copa and they are into the next round of the Champions League. From an outside perspective, it’s hard to read whether or not they have problems,” Barcelona midfielder Andres

Iniesta said on Monday.

Madrid’s attack could get a boost if Argentina forward Angel di Maria returns from injury.

Defender Pepe’s availability is uncertain after the Portugal international was benched against Bilbao following the fallout from his stamp on Lionel Messi’s hand in the first leg. Madrid has won only one of its last 13 meetings against Barcelona - April’s Copa del Rey final - with nine losses over that period. Barcelona is coming off a 4-1 league win at Malaga in which Messi notched his 10th career hat-trick for the European champions.

Messi now has 36 goals in all competitions this season, while teammate Alexis Sanchez has also found his rhythm with the Spanish champions, the Chile forward scoring three goals in his last four games. Also, Mirandes needs to beat Espanyol to become the first third division club to reach the semifinals since Fugueres in 2002.

Mirandes trails 3-2 going into Tuesday’s match at its 6,000capacit Andova Municipal stadium. Meanwhile, Valencia and Athletic Bilbao hold comfortable leads going into their away return legs. Valencia travels across town to Levante on Thursday holding a 4-1 advantage and Bilbao is 2-0 up ahead of its game at Mallorca tomorrow. — AP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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Penguins nip Capitals Bruins outlast Flyers in bruising shootout win PITTSBURGH: Evgeni Malkin pounded home a rebound 1:31 into overtime to give the streaking Pittsburgh Penguins a 4-3 victory over the Washington Capitals on Sunday. Malkin, the NHL points leader, banged a long carom off the end boards past Michal Neuvirth for his 26th goal of the season. Malkin added two assists to give him 58 points. James Neal scored twice and assisted on the winner in Pittsburgh’s sixth straight victory. Kris Letang scored for the second straight game Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 17 shots. Alex Ovechkin had a goal and two assists for Washington, Alexander Semin added a goal and an assist, and Brooks Laich also scored.

LA QUINTA: Mark Wilson hugs his wife, Amy, and children after winning the Humana Challenge golf tournament on the Palmer Private course at PGA West in La Quinta on Sunday, Jan 22, 2012. — AP

Mark Wilson posts another early PGA win LA QUINTA: American Mark Wilson is off to another fast start on the PGA Tour, holding off an abundance of challengers in an extended Sunday to capture the $5.6 million Humana Challenge tournament.

Wilson fired a three-under 69 in the fourth round for a two-stroke victory his fifth career USPGA Tour win and his third in 13 months. Wilson had to complete his third round Sunday morning after strong winds disrupted the tournament the day before.

He led by three strokes after the third round and then rolled in four birdies in the fourth to finish at 24-under 264. Wilson sank a 10-foot birdie putt on 18 with the afternoon light fading quickly on the Palm Springs-area golf course. “I was amazed,” said Wilson, who played his final eight holes in four under. “I just hung in there. I didn’t make a lot of 20 footers and then I made that one on 16. I capped it off with a birdie on 18.”

Robert Garrigus, John Mallinger and Johnson Wagner finished two shots back of Wilson, who won two times in the first five weeks last season. All of his five victories

have come in the first few months of the season. Garrigus barely missed a 35-foot eagle putt on the final hole that would have put him in the lead. Wilson then stepped up and clinched the win, making his 10-footer look easy. He played bogeyfree golf over his final 15 holes. Garrigus hurt his chances by making bogey on No 17 to fall out of a tie for the lead. He also missed a nine-foot putt for birdie on 18 that would have given him solo second spot. In order for the pro-am event to finish on time, the third round resumed with professionals only, leaving out the celebrity amateurs such as former US president Bill Clinton who were slated to play through three rounds.

Australian golfing legend Greg Norman, who had completed nine holes with Clinton on Saturday when play was halted, was among the players who withdrew.

Norman, making his first USPGA Tour start since 2009, opened with a 72 and posted a 71 in the second round. He had just double-bogeyed the ninth hole to turn in 38 when play was halted Saturday.— AFP

Nishikori floors Tsonga MELBOURNE: Kei Nishikori blazed a trail for Asian men’s tennis in the modern era yesterday when he became the first Japanese to reach the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in 80 years. Nishikori stunned French sixth seed Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 2-6 6-2 6-1 3-6 6-3 to emulate countrymen Ryosuki Nunoi and Jiro Satoh, who made the last eight in 1932, and now faces Andy Murray for a place in the semi-finals.

“Hopefully I can be like Li Na for the men,” the 22-year-old said with a grin in reference to China’s Li, who became Asia’s first grand slam singles winner last year at the French Open.

“Honestly there’s a lot of good players in Asia and I am happy to get to the top from Asia,” added the 24th seed. Nishikori left home at 13 to train at the Bolletierri Academy in Florida and after winning his first title at Delray Beach in 2008 has moved up the rankings to number 25 in the world and was seeded for the first time at Melbourne Park.

He is a celebrity in Japan, unable to walk around the streets freely in Tokyo without being approached by fans. After beating Tsonga, he hoped it would provide further impetus to tennis in his country. “A lot of people congratulate me,” he added. “They always email me after the matches. Hopefully people, especially kids, (will) start playing tennis. “But first of all I have to play well and I have to give

them good news. If that helps Japan, I’m really happy.” Nishikori was visibly exhausted after his three hour, 25 minute match with France’s Julien Benneteau on Saturday, finding it hard to climb the stairs.

But the 22-year-old shrugged off the fatigue and summoned the strength to chase down everything the powerful Tsonga threw at him on Monday. “When you have a guy in front of you who returns everything, even when you serve 215 (kph), it puts a lot of pressure (on you),” Tsonga said. “It’s tough to play against him because he runs a lot and everything’s coming back.” Nishikori is also the first Japanese man to reach a grand slam quarterfinal since Shuzo Matsuoka, who has emailed him after each match, reached that stage at Wimbledon in 1995. “This is the first (grand slam) quarter-final for me. (My) best result was the 2008 US Open round of 16 (but) that was a couple years ago,” said Nishikori. “So I feel I’m stepping up.” Murray, who knocked out the only other Asian left in the men’s draw when Kazakh Mikhail Kukushkin retired with an injury, said the Japanese would be a dangerous opponent. “Kei is playing really, really well,” said the fourth-seeded Briton. “I’ve practiced with him a few times. He’s very good.

You know, very deceptive. For somebody that’s not the tallest guy, he creates a lot of power from the back of the court. —Reuters

Djokovic fights off Hewitt MELBOURNE: Defending champion Novak Djokovic repulsed a tenacious fightback from Lleyton Hewitt to join last year’s finalist Andy Murray in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open yesterday. The Serb world number one was tested for the first time and dropped his only set of the tournament so far before extinguishing Hewitt’s challenge, 6-1, 6-3, 4-6, 6-3 in almost three hours.

Djokovic will now face Spanish fifth seed David Ferrer in Wednesday’s quarterfinals after Ferrer’s straight-sets win over Frenchman Richard Gasquet. The Serbian world number one was in command for the opening two sets before the fiercely competitive Australian veteran hit back, taking the match into a fourth set. “It was a really big challenge for me tonight to see where I stand,” Djokovic said. “I think I’ve been handling it really well because I could easily get my emotions out as I usually did.”Murray, the British fourth seed, was on court for only 49 minutes before his Kazakh opponent Mikhail Kukushkin retired early in the third set with a hip flexor injury.

Murray said he was looking to hit the practice courts to retain his sharpness ahead of Wednesday’s quarter-final after Kukushkin pulled out while trailing 6-1, 6-1, 1-0. The Scot admitted he was bored by his one-sided match with struggling Kukushkin. “Yeah, it’s just boring. There was nothing happening on the court,” Murray said of the match against his 92nd-ranked opponent. “I didn’t have to do anything.

Just hitting the ball in the court and he wasn’t running. He was making mistakes the first or second ball of the rally,” said Murray.

Murray, a beaten finalist in the past two Australian Opens, said while he was happy to conserve energy in the sapping heat, he needed to put in some work to prepare for tougher matches ahead. “It’s perfect because you conserve energy. You just need to make sure, you know, today and tomorrow you hit enough balls to make sure you don’t lose any rhythm. “But you can’t look at it as a negative. At this stage of the tournament to be off the court in 45 minutes or so isn’t bad.”

Japan’s Kei Nishikori will be Murray’s surprise opponent in the quarters after his stunning five-set victory over former finalist Jo-Wilfried Tsonga yesterday. Nishikori became the first Japanese man into the Australian quarter-finals in 80 years when he upset the French sixth seed, 2-6, 6-2, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in scorching conditions to earn a place in the last eight. It is the best result at a grand slam for Nishikori, who also became only the second Japanese man to reach a major quarter-final in the open era since Shuzo Matsuoka at Wimbledon in 1995. “I was just playing one point at a time and it was not easy conditions today, JoWilfried was playing well and I was just trying my best,” Nishikori said. “Hopefully it’s big news in Japan. A lot of people have messaged me since my last win, so now it’s a quarter-final and I’m really excited.”

Tsonga said Nishikori proved a difficult opponent in the heat. “When you have a guy in front of you who returns everything, even when you serve at 215 (kilometers per hour, 134 miles an hour), it puts lot of pressure on you,” he said. “It’s tough to play against him because he runs a lot and everything’s coming back.”— AFP

BRUINS 6, FLYERS 5, SO At Philadelphia, the Boston Bruins survived a bruising encounter to emerge with a 6-5 shootout triumph over the Philadelphia Flyers on Sunday as two of the Eastern Conference’s top teams treated spectators to a thrilling rollercoaster ride. David Krejci and Tyler Seguin both scored in regulation and the shootout while Tim Thomas held the Flyers to one goal in the tiebreaker to ensure the Bruins caught up with the New York Rangers at the top of the East standings. Thomas, who finished with 33 saves, stopped Wayne Simmonds’ final attempt to end the game. In a wild and physical see-saw struggle, Boston went 3-1 up in the first period only to see their lead disappear when Scott Hartnell exploded for a hat-trick in the second.

Hartnell’s first three-goal game since 2008 gave him 25 goals on the season but it was not enough to earn his team the victory. “You’ve got to be able to nail games down when you’re up a goal,” Hartnell told reporters. “Especially against an offensive team like the Bruins. We didn’t do it tonight.” Krejci and Gregory Campbell responded to give the Bruins a 5-4 lead early in the third before Maxime Talbot netted the game-tying goal for Philadelphia, his second of the game, midway through the third. Patrice Bergeron and Milan Lucic also added scores for Boston who lost a heavyweight overtime battle to the Rangers on Saturday but rebounded to meet their latest challenge.

“It’s good,” Lucic said of the Bruins’ ability to earn points against a pair of tough opponents.

“Two teams that are on top of the league and the Eastern Conference, two teams that have played well all season. It’s great that we were able to get one yesterday and get that shootout win here today.” The Flyers (28-14-5) had been dominated in a 6-0 defeat to the defending Stanley Cup champion Bruins (31-13-2) on Dec. 17 but this matchup was decidedly more competitive. The game featured 36 penalty minutes in the first period alone, including a pair of fights that set the tone for a nasty grudge match.

Claude Giroux had three assists and Ilya Bryzgalov finished with 32 saves for the Flyers.

DUCKS 3, AVALANCHE 2 At Anaheim, California, Bobby Ryan scored

twice and Jonas Hiller made 43 saves to help Anaheim beat Colorado for its sixth straight victory. Ryan Getzlaf scored on a power play early in the third period and assisted on Ryan’s second goal. Hiller made 28 saves through the first two periods and was working on his third shutout of

the season before Ryan O’Reilly and Milan Hejduk scored late in the third period. JeanSebastien Giguere allowed the three goals on 18 shots against his former team. Giguere spent 8 1/2 seasons with the Ducks and helped them win the Stanley Cup in 2007.— Agencies

ANAHEIM: Sheldon Brookbank #21 of the Anaheim Ducks blocks the shot from the point off his shinpad by defenseman Erik Johnson #6 of the Colorado Avalanche in the third period during the NHL game at Honda Center on January 22, 2012. — AFP

NHL results/standings NHL results and standings on Sunday.

Pittsburgh 4, Washington 3 (OT); Boston 6, Philadelphia 5 (SO); Anaheim 3, Colorado 2. (OT denotes overtime win) (SO denotes shootout win) Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L OTLGF NY Rangers 30 12 4 129 Philadelphia 28 14 5 159 Pittsburgh 27 17 4 149 New Jersey 26 19 2 128 NY Islanders 19 21 6 112

GA 96 140 125 134 136

PTS 64 61 58 54 44

Detroit St. Louis Chicago Nashville Columbus

Western Conference Central Division 32 15 1 155 109 29 12 6 121 96 29 14 6 161 141 28 16 4 133 125 13 28 6 112 155 Northwest Division 29 15 4 155 26 22 2 129 23 18 7 112 23 20 6 120 17 26 4 118

120 141 124 136 138

62 54 53 52 38

Pacific Division 26 14 5 129 23 16 10 107 24 21 2 125 21 20 8 127 18 22 7 124

108 110 136 132 143

57 56 50 50 43

Boston Ottawa Toronto Montreal Buffalo

Northeast Division 31 13 2 168 27 17 6 154 23 19 5 144 18 21 9 123 19 24 5 117

97 153 144 132 148

64 60 51 45 43

Vancouver Colorado Minnesota Calgary Edmonton

Florida Washington Winnipeg Tampa Bay Carolina

Southeast Division 22 15 10 120 25 19 3 131 22 20 6 123 20 23 4 132 17 24 9 128

133 134 138 163 158

54 53 50 44 43

San Jose Los Angeles Dallas Phoenix Anaheim

65 64 64 60 32

MELBOURNE: Serena Williams of the US reaches for a return against Ekaterina Makarova of Russia in their fourth round women’s singles match on day eight of the 2012 Australian Open tennis tournament in Melbourne yesterday. — AFP

Giant-killer Makarova savors slaying Serena Williams loss draw wide open MELBOURNE: The Australian Open women’s draw was thrown wide open yesterday after Russia’s Ekaterina Makarova shocked Serena Williams in the fourth round, as Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova won in straight sets. Makarova, the world number 56, reached a grand slam quarter-final for the first time when she stunned a below-par Williams 6-2, 6-3 and will now face former champion Maria Sharapova, who battled back from a set down to progress.

There were no such problems for Kvitova, who held off a late fight-back from Ana Ivanovic to win 6-2, 7-6 (7/2) and move into a quarter-final showdown against Italian Sara Errani, a 6-2, 6-1 winner over China’s Zheng Jie. Williams, a 13-time grand slam winner, was expected to cruise past Makarova, who surprised seventh seed Vera Zvonareva in the third round. But almost from the first point it was obvious that Williams, who suffered an ankle injury this month in Brisbane, was not her usual self as mistakes came thick and fast from her racquet, 37 in all.

The 30-year-old sent down seven double-faults as she was broken five times, ending a 17-match unbeaten streak at Melbourne Park stretching back to 2009. “I served, I don’t know. I can’t even describe how I served to be honest,” she said. “It

wasn’t good, though. “My lefty serve is actually better than that. Maybe I should have started serving lefty... I just did not serve well. It was just disastrous really.” Makarova broke Williams twice in the first set to win the opener but the American seemed to get back on track with an early break in the second-only to surrender it the next game. Makarova held serve to level the set at 2-2, then broke again as a frustrated Williams served four double faults, the last to concede the game. “It’s an amazing feeling, it’s unbelievable,” Makarova said. “She’s an unbelievable player and I’m just really happy.” Four different women have won the past four grand slams-including three first-timers-and Williams’s loss makes this year’s Melbourne winner even harder to predict. Kvitova, Errani and Sharapova are the potential beneficiaries on Williams’s side of the draw, while the main threat in the other half is Kim Clijsters, who injured an ankle in Sunday’s win over Li Na. In other action earlier yesterday, Kvitova recovered from an embarrassing air swing to see off Ivanovic. An under-pressure Ivanovic was serving at 3-5 to stay in the match when she threw up a despairing defensive lob from behind the baseline.

Kvitova moved in for the kill but somehow missed the simple smash and the ball hit her. Ivanovic held serve and then broke Kvitova to force a second-set

tiebreak, but the world number two recovered to dominate the breaker and notch up an impressive victory.

She will now take on Errani, who played some rock-solid tennis to get past Zheng. The Chinese number two had a day to forget with 47 unforced errors in just two sets. The 24-year-old Sharapova, who won the Australian Open in 2008, has now reached the quarter-finals or better in Melbourne five times, but this is the first time she has progressed so far since she took the title four years ago.

“I had lots of ups and downs today so I was fortunate to finish on a high note,” she said. “She was a good opponent and playing with confidence. I’m happy that although I didn’t play my best tennis I hung in there.” Sharapova started with a blaze of attacking shots and broke Lisicki’s first two service games to take a 3-0 lead but the gritty German refused to buckle and slowly fought her way back into the match. Lisicki won the next six games to wrap up the first set before Sharapova stopped the stop the rot, fighting back to level the match at one set apiece. The turning point came in the third game of the third set when Lisicki had five break points but could not convert any of them. Three games later Sharapova broke the German to gain a crucial 4-2 advantage.—AFP

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

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Panathinaikos take over at the top ATHENS: Ghana for ward Quincy scored the only goal as Panathinaikos beat Atromitos 1-0 on Sunday to take advantage of a defeat for title rivals Olympiakos Pireaus and move to the top of the Greek standings. A tight match between Jesualdo Ferreira’s Greens and in-form Atromitos was settled in the 72nd minute when former Arsenal winger Quincy, on loan from Al-Saad, drilled home Sebastian Leto’s knock-down to seal the three points. It was the third 1-0 victory in

succession for Ferreira’s team, who are now two points clear of Olympiakos after collecting 42 points from 17 matches, one match less than the champions. “Sometimes external factors affect you and Olympiakos’ defeat did actually put added pressure on us; but we dominated the second half and showed that we want to win and we have to keep doing that,” Ferreria told reporters. “Nobody has won the title yet and there are plenty matches to

Italian Serie A table ROME: Italian Serie A table on Sunday (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points): Juventus 19 11 8 0 31 12 AC Milan 19 12 4 3 40 17 Udinese 19 11 5 3 28 14 Inter Milan 19 11 2 6 30 20 Lazio 19 9 6 4 27 19 Roma 18 9 3 6 28 20 Napoli 19 7 8 4 34 21 Palermo 19 7 3 9 24 27 Chievo 19 6 6 7 16 22 Genoa 19 7 3 9 25 34 Cagliari 19 5 8 6 16 18 Parma 19 6 5 8 24 32 Fiorentina 19 5 7 7 18 16 Catania 18 5 7 6 21 27 Atalanta 19 6 8 5 23 25 Bologna 19 5 5 9 17 25 Siena 19 4 7 8 20 20 Cesena 19 4 3 12 13 30 Lecce 19 3 4 12 20 36 Novara 19 2 6 11 18 38 Note: Atalanta deducted six points at start of season for match-fixing

41 40 38 35 33 30 29 24 24 24 23 23 22 22 20 20 19 15 13 12

Wenger tries to quell mutiny after blunder LONDON: Arsene Wenger was forced to quell talk of a mutiny at Arsenal after his costly mistake led to the Gunners’ 2-1 defeat against Manchester United. The Frenchman made a huge blunder when he decided to send on Russia winger Andrey Arshavin in place of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the closing stages at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. A lackluster first-half performance from Arsenal ended with Antonio Valencia heading United into the lead, but Wenger’s injury-hit side gave a far better account of themselves in the second period and equalized when Robin van Persie finished off a move that swept the full length of the pitch.

Arsenal looked capable of snatching a winner at that point but Wenger took the wind out of his team’s sails by replacing OxladeChamberlain, who had marked a dynamic first Premier League start by setting up van Persie’s goal, with Arshavin. The Russian has infuriated Arsenal fans with his lackluster displays over the last 18 months and the home supporters responded to the switch with a torrent of abuse for Wenger. Even Gunners captain van Persie was seen shouting ‘No’ while gesturing towards his manager as Arshavin came on.Arshavin then showed Wenger exactly why there was such an angry reaction as his sloppy defending allowed Valencia space to set up Danny Welbeck’s 81st minute winner.

Arsenal’s French manager Arsene Wenger This may not have been as humiliating as Arsenal’s 8-2 defeat at Old Trafford in August, but the consequences for Wenger could be even more damaging if he is unable to stamp out such open signs of dissent from players and fans alike. “I can understand that the fans are upset about the substitution, especially when it doesn’t work, but he

(Oxlade-Chamberlain) had started to fatigue,” Wenger said. “He was sick in the week and Arshavin is captain of the Russia national team. “You have an 18-year-old kid making his first Premier League start and a player who’s captain of his country and they are querying the substitution?

Let’s be serious.

“I’ve been a manager for 30 years and have made 50,000 substitutions.

I do not have to justify every decision I make to you (the press). I stand up for it. “People pay for their tickets and express their emotions. We have to deal with that, it doesn’t mean they are always right.” Van Persie’s frustration should be even more concerning for Wenger. The Dutch for ward’s contract expires in 18 months and he has indicated he is in no rush to extend it, so it was no surprise Wenger was coy about how he would deal with van Persie.

“I didn’t see that. I do not want to come out on every reaction. I don’t have to explain what I will do about this,” he said. “I will not blame one individual. We win together and we lose together. If I made a mistake I am sorry. But it could have happened if Oxlade-Chamberlain had stayed on.” Arsenal have now lost three successive league games for the first time in five years and lie five points behind fourth placed Chelsea with 36 points after 22 games-their worst total at this stage of Wenger’s entire 16-year reign.

Wenger now faces the nightmare prospect of missing out on the Champions League places and he acknowledged they are in a tricky situation. “We had chances to win the game, but this Man Utd team is a bit more mature in every position than we are,” Wenger said. “It leaves us in a very difficult position. It was a game we couldn’t afford to lose.” In contrast, United boss Sir Alex Ferguson left north London confident that Premier League leaders Manchester City remain firmly in their sights. United kicked off six points behind City after their dramatic win over Tottenham, but Welbeck’s winner reduced the gap to three. It was the ideal statement of intent from the champions in the first of a testing run of away fixtures that could decide the destiny of the title.

“I said before the game that we had four massive away games (Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham and City) to come and that’s one out the way,” Ferguson said. “What we need to do is stay on City ’s coat-tails.

Things can happen and there will be changes before the end of the season.” United are now five points clear of third placed Tottenham and Ferguson believes it is a two-horse title race between the two Manchester clubs. “Winning after City won their game was the important thing. And we’ve done it the right way, being adventurous and positive. I’m delighted with that,” Ferguson said. “I think it is going to be hard for both us and City to collapse in the run-in now.” — AFP

come, though. We must be realistic and keep ourselves grounded.”

Ernesto Valverde’s Olympiakos created a host of opportunities but failed to break down a stubborn Skoda Xanthi side and the Pireaus club paid the price as Panagiotis Vlachodimos’s well-taken goal seven minutes after halftime proved enough to secure a 1-0 victory. Without injured strikers Kevin Mirallas and Rafik Djebbour, who have scored 20 goals this season, Olympiakos struggled in front of goal.

“The truth is that we were missing two very important attacking players but even in their absence we created enough opportunities to score and we should have managed without them,” said Valverde.

“It’s strange to leave with no points after giving out best performance of 2012 overall. The players were nervy after going a goal down and that is understandable given that we can’t afford to lose many more points.”

Fourth-placed AEK Athens were held

to a 1-1 draw in Crete by Ergotelis, a result which gave PAOK Salonica a chance to gain ground. Laszlo Boloni’s men did just that by picking up a 1-0 home victory over Panionios, with Stefanos Athanasiadis’s seventh goal of the season decisive at the Toumba Stadium.

That result set up an enticing match between AEK and PAOK at the Olympic Stadium next weekend with just two points separating the two teams. — Reuters

Serie A ‘a 4-way race’ ROME: AC Milan, Udinese and Inter Milan each won Sunday to join Juventus in what is turning into a rare four-way race for the Serie A title at the Italian season’s midpoint. Milan won 3-0 at lastplace Novara with two goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and another from Robinho; Pablo Armero and Antonio Di Natale found the net to steer Udinese to a 2-1 victory over Catania; and Inter came from behind to beat Lazio 2-1 with goals from Diego Milito and Giampaolo Pazzini for its seventh consecutive victory. Juventus, which beat Atalanta 2-0 Saturday, holds a one-point lead over Milan and is three points in front of unsung Udinese, which has never finished higher than third. Inter, which was once 15 points back, now trails by six points after having leapfrogged Lazio into fourth place.

For the most part, the Serie A title race has been a two-team affair in recent seasons, with Inter winning five consecutive championships from 2006-10 and Milan taking the title last year. “ We needed to get three points after losing the derby,” Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri said, referring to last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Inter. “We’ve got 40 points, which is what we had last year after the first half of the season.

Juve has done better and they’ve got one more point but there are 19 matches to go. I’m pleased with what the lads are doing.”

Next weekend, Udinese visits Juventus. “I don’t know how long we’ll last because we’re spending a huge amount of energy, but I realize that we’re turning logic upside down because usually in football whoever invests the most wins,” said Udinese coach Francesco Guidolin. “We’re only halfway through the season and it won’t be easy for us, but we’re going to try.” In other matches, it was: Lecce 2, Chievo Verona 2; Palermo 5, Genoa 3; Siena 1, Napoli 1; and Cagliari 0, Fiorentina 0. Earlier in the lunchtime fixture, Bologna and Parma played to a 0-0 draw, with Parma captain Stefano Morrone exiting at halftime and heading to the hospital, where his son was being treated for a reported

breathing problem.

“There was a moment of panic and we decided to tell Stefano,” said Parma coach Roberto Donadoni. “When you’re talking about a six-month old baby it’s alarming, but it was resolved well.” The start of the CagliariFiorentina match was delayed by

Cagliari’s training center, forcing both clubs to leave late for the stadium, according to the ANSA news agency. On Wednesday, Milan needed an extra-time winner from Alexandre Pato to beat Novara in the Italian Cup, and it again looked like the Rossoneri might struggle when

NOVARA: AC Milan Brazilian forward Robinho (top) dribbles past Novara Albanian goalkeeper Samir Ujkani during the Serie A soccer match between Novara and AC Milan at the Piola stadium in Novara on Sunday, Jan 22, 2012. — AP a half hour due to a workers’ protest over the closing of an Alcoa aluminum plant. Workers surrounded both the hotel where Fiorentina was staying and

Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva and Stephen El Shaarawy each failed to take advantage of chances in the first half.

However, Milan captain

Massimo Ambrosini found Ibrahimovic all alone in front of the goal for an easy finish in the 57th, Robinho scored from closerange in the 73rd and Ibrahimovic found the target again in the 90th off a rebound to tie with Di Natale as the league’s leading scorer with 14 goals each.

In Udine, the hosts took control when Colombian winger Pablo Armero finished off a counterattack in the 19th, and Armero then provided the cross when Di Natale scored with a volley in the 53rd. Francesco Lodi pulled one back for Catania with a penalty in the fifth minute of added time.

At the San Siro, Lazio took the lead with an angled shot from Captain Tommaso Rocchi in the 30th.

Milito equalized in the 44th after receiving a pass from Ricardo Alvarez for his fifth goal in four games - having scored the derby winner a week ago. Pazzini hit the winner this time, collecting a long headed pass from Lucio and splitting the offside trap before lobbing a shot over the ‘keeper in the 63rd.

In Siena, former Napoli forward Emanuele Calaio put the hosts in front with a header in the 67th and goalkeeper Gianluca Pegolo made an impressive save to stop a penalty from Napoli forward Edinson Cavani in the 79th.

However, Napoli still equalized with a header from forward Goran Pandev in the 86th.

In Sicily, Palermo for ward Fabrizio Miccoli set up three goals and scored another. After Rodrigo Palacio had put Genoa in front in the 13th, Igor Budan, Matias Silvestre and Andrea Mantovani struck back for Palermo. Palacio then converted a penalty in the 59th to make it 3-2, Miccoli scored in the 75th to restore Palermo’s two-goal lead and Giulio Migliaccio added another by meeting a free kick from Miccoli with a header in the 84th.

In Lecce, Chievo went ahead with two early goals from Alberto Paloschi and Lecce equalized with strikes by Andrea Esposito in the 30th and David Di Michele in the third minute of second-half added time. — AP

Marseille, Lyon scrape through in French Cup PARIS: Olympique Marseille avoided a shock home loss to second division Le Havre by scoring twice in extra-time to reach the French Cup last 16 with a 3-1 win on Sunday.

The 10-times Cup winners struggled after the Ligue 2 team took an early lead before putting together a combination of tough defence and lightning counter-attacks.

Earlier, Olympique Lyon were also made to work hard and needed two late goals to seal a last-16 top-flight clash with Girondins Bordeaux with a 2-0 win at fourth division Lucon. France forward Bafetimbi Gomis gave Lyon the lead with 15 minutes left and Lisandro Lopez made sure of victory when he scored from close range after initiating a quick counter-attack with one minute to go.

Lyon struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the first half but had many opportunities after the interval although they had luck on their side when Lucon struck the woodwork five minutes after Gomis’s opener.

In Marseille, Le Havre offered even tougher opposition and took the early lead in the fifth minute when for ward Ryan Mendes was set up from long range and ran through to shoot past keeper Steve Mandanda. Didier Deschamps’ squad had their chances before the interval and finally came back when Brazilian striker Brandao headed in a Morgan Amalfitano pass which Le Havre keeper Johny Placide failed to catch. Le Havre, France’s oldest professional team, could have stunned their hosts in the last minute but midfielder Alexandre Bonnet missed an opportunity into an empty net.

Midfielder Morgan Amalfitano finally gave Marseille the lead during extra-time with a powerful shot from outside the box

and France Loic Remy scored a last-minute goal. Marseille will travel to fourth division Bourg-Peronnas, who dumped out Ligue 1’s bottom side Ajaccio, in the last 16. Also on Sunday, third division GFCO Ajaccio, who have already beaten Ligue 1 Toulouse,

knocked out Ligue 2 Troyes thanks to a second-half goal by Mickael Colloredo. Algerian Foued Kadir scored either side of the interval to help top-flight Valenciennes recover from a goal down to beat second division side Bastia who were down to 10 men. — Reuters

NANTES: Lucon’s French forward Damien Mayenga (right) vies with Lyon’s midfielder Gueida Fofana during the French Cup football match on January 22, 2012 in Nantes, western France. — AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

S P ORT S

Burkina coach fumes at Angolan ‘anti-football’ MALABO: Burk ina Faso coach Paulo Duarte was furious with his players after two defensive blunders led to a 2-1 defeat by Angola in their African Nations Cup opener on Sunday. Duarte also lambasted Angola’s “anti-football”, saying they had spent the last 20 minutes of the match time -wasting, prompting the referee to add on eight minutes of injur y time.

Mateus and Manucho scored in the second half for the Angolans either side of a superb equalizer by Alain Traore. Burkina were badly let down by their defense as their for wards created more than enough chances to win the game.

With Ivory Coast, 1-0 winners over Sudan earlier in the day, strong favorites to go through, the match was seen as a key battle in the race for second place in Group B, with Sudan considered rank outsiders.

“Their goals both came from schoolboy mistakes in our defense and we paid for them,” said the Portuguese. “After the second goal, Angola played anti-football which the referee permitted. Obviously teams want to win and will do all they can, but it was ridiculous.

They kept going down and wasting time and the referee did nothing.” The first half, while far from a FRANCEVILLE: Ghanaian striker Asamoah Gyan (right) and his teammate Anthony Annan walk to a training session at Ngouoni football field in Franceville. Ghana will launch its campaign for the African Cup of Nations 2012 with a match against Botswana today at Stadium of Franceville. — AFP

Ghana bank on Gyan against Botswana FRANCEVILLE: Ghana will again be counting on goals by star striker Asamoah Gyan to get them past debutants Botswana in an African Cup of Nations Group D match today. UAE-based striker Gyan has recovered fully from a hamstring injury he suffered in club action to score in the team’s final warm-up game against South African club Platinum Stars. Two years ago, the striker the fans know as ‘Baby Jet’ scored against both hosts Angola and perennial arch-rivals Nigeria to propel a youthful Black Stars to the final, where they lost by a lone goal to Egypt.

Goal scoring has been Ghana’s achilles’ heel since the days of the likes of Opoku Afriyie, George Alhassan, Abedi Pele and Anthony Yeboah and for this tournament they are again looking very thin in this department. The other strikers in the squad are the unreliable Prince Tagoe, who must be short in confidence after getting knocks for his lack of goals for the country, and Marseille youngster Jordan Ayew.

It is in midfield that Ghana have been strongest with the Udinese pair of Asamoah Kwadwo and Emmanuel Agyemang Badu weighing in with some goals and holding forth along with the experienced Sulley Muntari. The Black Stars will be without Hoffenheim central defender Vorsah for Tuesday’s clash as he is under suspension for his red card in the final qualifier in Sudan in October. Skipper

John Mensah, whose fitness remains a serious concern after a recent long injury layoff, will now have to play alongside namesake Jonathan in the heart of the defense.

The problematic left back position would either be manned by youngster Daniel Opare, who is really a right back, or the recently capped Massawudu Alhassan.

The Zebras of Botswana, on the other hand, have bar injured winger Joel Mongorosi a full complement of the team who qualified for their first-ever Nations Cup in style. Mongorosi was a good foil for the team’s top scorer in the qualifiers with five-goal Jerome Ramatlhakwana, who coach Stanley Tshosane has said has regained full match fitness following a contractual dispute with his South African club.

Botswana trained in South Africa and Cameroon ahead of this tournament. They held Nigeria complete with their European-based players to a goalless draw in friendly in Benin City, southern Nigeria.

A final warm-up game against Zimbabwe in Gaborone was disrupted by a pay row as the players demanded for huge bonuses which the authorities refused. The experience of skipper Diphetogo Selolwane, who has featured in the league in the United States of America and now features for top South African club Supersport United, will be crucial for the Zebras at this tournament.—AFP

classic, produced half-chances for both sides with Angola, backed by a lively band featuring out-of-key trumpets, looking slightly more dangerous. The game burst into life three minutes after the break when a sequence of mistakes in the Burk ina area ended with Hamadou Tall losing possession to Mateus who cut inside and fired a left-foot shot past Daouda Diakite.

Burkina conjured up a superb equaliser 10 minutes later when French-based midfielder Alain Traore curled a 25-metre free kick around the wall that left Carlos Fernandes stranded. The goal brought the Stallions to life and they looked capable of winning the match until the defense lost possession again. This time, Manucho benefited and the Real Valladolid player fired a left-foot shot past the stunned Diakite from outside the area. Burkina were far from finished and Beli Moumouni Dagano should have equalized when he was allowed a free header from close range but his effort went straight to a grateful Carlos Fernandes. Dagano was denied again by the goalkeeper as Angola, who resorted to blatant time -wasting, were forced to defend desperately. —Reuters

MALABO: A Match Official asks Burkina Faso’s coach Paulo Duarte (right) to move away from the field during the African Cup of Nations (CAN), group B, football match between Angola and Burkina Faso at the Malabo stadium in Malabo on January 22, 2012. — AFP

Mali, Guinea rekindle west African rivalry FRANCEVILLE: It will be the reawakening of a west African derby when Mali clash with Guinea today night in an African Cup of Nations Group D fixture. It is rather strange that despite being next-door neighbors both countries last clashed at full international level in a 2004 Nations Cup quarter-final in Tunisia with the Malians winning 2-1. The result of this game is crucial for either side in a group that many would bet on four-time champions Ghana to come through with debutants Botswana making up the numbers. In the absence of Mahamadou Diarra and Frederic Kanoute, the Barcelona midfielder Seydou Keita and Panathiniakos central defender Cedric Kante Mali have to champion youngsters like Samba Diakite, Samba Sow and El Hadj Mahamane Traore.

Keita will be the main attraction for a very youthful Mali team in Gabon and he insisted that it is the whole team and not he alone who could beat Guinea. “It will be a very difficult game but we have often enjoyed the luck against Guinea at this tournament,” said the Mali skipper. “But this is a very

different tournament in many ways. First, Mali are here with a very young team and also this will be our opening match in this competition.” He added: “It’s a big personal responsibility because I’m one of the most experienced players in the team now and must therefore lead by example.

“But at the same time, Seydou alone cannot beat Guinea. We must respect the other team and play as a team to win.”

Guinea have also undergone changes but in September they recalled skipper Pascal Feindouno and big defender Bobo Balde and now the Syli National are a blend of young and experienced campaigners. The Guineans have been more successful than Mali in the competition recently as they reached the quarter-finals in 2006 and 2008. Their regional rivals crashed out in the group stages at both the 2008 and 2010 tournaments. French coach Michel Dussuyer has endeared himself to the country on his return after his team upset star-studded Nigeria to qualify for this championship.

However, the former Benin coach has insisted that feat is now history and his team must

FRANCEVILLE: A member of a Gabonese cultural troupe waits to entertain the Malian national football team upon their arrival at the Franceville center for the 2012 African Cup of Nations in Gabon. —AFP

preoccupy themselves with the task ahead. “It was great to finish ahead of Nigeria. Guineans were proud of the team, but all that is now in the past,” said no-nonsense Dussuyer, who is missing Kevin Constant after the star midfielder chose club ahead of country. “We therefore have to

continue to work hard, give our 100% always, because we are not in an easy group. “Our first objective is to get past the first round.

Ghana and Mali will be our major rivals, but we will also not take for granted Botswana, who were the surprise team in the qualifiers.”— AFP

Coach Zahoui happy with cautious start

MALABO: Ivory Coast coach Francois Zahoui (right) attends a training session with his team in Malabo ahead the 2012 African Cup of Nations. —AFP

MAL A BO: I vor y Coast have made a habit of starting well and fading at the end in the Africans Nations Cup, so coach Francois Zahoui was more than happy with their slow start this time.

Zahoui, who has put the Elephants back on track after their first-round exit at the last World Cup, saw nothing wrong in a labored 1-0 win over Sudan’s team of home-based players o n S u n d ay. “ I vo r y Co a s t a re a l w ays expec ted to put on some fireworks, but our target is to win the Cup, which is a short and very, very difficult competition,” he said. “ There are a lot of things we can improve on but this was positive as debuts go. The important thing is to win the Cup. “I’m not saying that the way in which we do it is not impor tant, but this win relieves the press u r e .” T h e 2 0 1 2 t o u r n a m e n t i n Equatorial Gabon and Gabon is seen

as a last chance for Ivory Coast’s current crop of players, several of whom such as Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou and Gervinho -have played in four or more tournaments, to win the title. In 2006, Ivory Coast went all the way to the final but lost on penalty to hosts Egypt.

Two years after that in Ghana, they looked unstoppable as the goals flowed until they were again confronted by Egypt in the semi-finals and were promptly thumped 4-1. The 2010 tournament saw them outplay Ghana 3-1 in the group stage, only to lose to Algeria in the quar ter-finals. Having seen Nigeria, Cameroon and Egypt all fail to qualify and then Equatorial Guinea and Zambia pull off shock wins on Saturday, Zahoui was aware of the pitfalls awaiting his side. “I was not surp r i s e d b y S u d a n’s re s i s t a n c e,” s a i d Zahoui who enjoys an unbeaten 14-

Matches on TV (Local Timings)

African Nations Cup Ghana v Botswana Aljazeera Sport +3 Aljazeera Sport +9 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD

19:00

Mali v Guinea Aljazeera Sport +9 Aljazeera Sport 2 HD

22:00

match record as coach including a 100 percent record in the Nations Cup qualifiers. “I expec ted a ver y motivated team against us, you can never minimize another side. It was also important to keep another clean sheet.”— Reuters

Bucks beat Heat 91-82

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Gutsy Giants ride momentum to NFL title game

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LIBREVILLE: Gabon’s PierreEmerick Aubameyang jumps over Niger’s Mohamed Soumaila during their African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match at Stade De L’Amitie in Libreville yesterday. — AP

Gabon outclass debutants Niger Co-host blank newcomers Niger 2-0 LIBREVILLE: Gabon galloped to a 2-0 win over outclassed debutants Niger yesterday to get their African Cup of Nations campaign off to the ideal start. The 2012 co-hosts took a potentially major step towards a quarter-final berth with first half headers from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Stephane Nguema. The venue for yesterday’s Group C double header, Morocco faced Tunisia later, was the brand new L’Amitie stadium. The 40,000-seater ground was hastily built by the Chinese as ‘plan B’ after work on restoring Gabon’s national stadium, originally intended as the venue for Cup games in Libreville, began too late.

Gabon coach Gernot Rohr elected to start with former captain Daniel Cousin, returning after a lengthy lay off, on the bench with his attack led instead by French-based duo Aubameyang and

Eric Mouloungui. Gabon, who beat Cameroon in their opening game in 2010 but failed to make the last eight, were quick out of the blocks, winning three corners with the sound of the starting whistle still hanging in the hot and humid equatorial air.

Niger’s defense was at sixes and sevens in the face of the onslaught, keeper Kassaly Daouda the busiest man on the field. Niger, experiencing a baptism of fire on their Cup debut, were having trouble getting a slice of the action, their frustration boiling over in the 22nd minute when Issoufou Alhassane Dante sliced down Charly Moussono, earning him a booking. Gabon got just reward for their dominance in the 30th minute when the omnipresent Aubameyang rose to head home at a tight angle Nguema’s cross from the right wing.

Niger coach Harouna Doula made what looked like

a tactical substitution when replacing striker Dante with midfielder Yacouba Ali, but on the stroke of half time Gabon had doubled their advantage.

Nguema was the man responsible, heading in from close range after Daouda had been unable to hold on to Aubameyang’s own header. Gabon’s number one fan, President Ali Bongo and his First lady sporting the country’s yellow shirt, joined the rest of the crowd in leaping ecstatically out of their seats. The tempo inevitably descended a few notches after the restart, as conditions began to take their toll, the play becoming disjointed as Gabon took up almost permanent resident right’s in Niger’s half. Niger’s sole chance came in the final ten minutes when Ouwo Moussa Maazou headed low into Gabon skipper and keeper Didier Ovono’s hands.—AFP

Tunisia keep Morocco at bay

LIBREVILLE: Morocco’s striker Noureddine Amrabat vies with Tunisia’s Ammar Jemal (top) during the African Cup of Nations 2012 (CAN), Group C football match yesterday. — AFP

LIBREVILLE: Tunisia took the Maghreb derby honors yesterday, a 2-1 defeat of Morocco putting them alongside Gabon at the top of Group C in the African Cup of Nations. The north African neighbors’ last Nations Cup meeting came in the 2004 final won by Tunisia, who also denied Morocco qualification to the 2006 World Cup. And the Carthage Eagles claimed the bragging rights again with goals in either half from Khaled Korbi and Youssef Msakni, with Houssine Kharja getting a dubious late consolation for Morocco. As promised Morocco coach Eric Gerets kept faith with veteran keeeper Nadir Lamyaghri who was returning after a lengthy lay off. The Belgian chose Arsenal’s Marouane Chamakh to spearhead the attack alongside Oussama Assaidi, with Queen Park Rangers’ Adel Taraabt on the bench. The Tunisians were missing Auxerre-attached Issam Jemaa, top scorer in qualifying but sidelined with an ankle problem. The match got underway with the L’Amitie stadium only half full, the other half having gone off to celebrate co-host Gabon’s stirring 2-0 win over Niger in the first instalment of this Group C double bill.

Gerets’ confidence in Lamyaghri was repaid as early as the eighth minute when the keeper’s athletic dive denied Tunisia skipper Karim Haggui. Down at the other end Lamyaghri’s opposite number Aymen Mathlouthi was up to the task of stopping Moroccan midfielder Mbark Boussoufa’s shot from the right of the box. The two favorites to qualify - at least until Gabon’s victory - were creating plenty of early

chances, one of the better ones coming before the half hour was up when Zouhaier Dhaouadi struck from outside the box with only the post preventing Tunisia from taking control.

They did just that on 34 minutes when Korbi’s dipping freekick from 25m sailed over the Moroccan defence to hit the inside of Lamyaghri’s far upright and cross the line. Morocco would have levelled before the break only for Younes Belhanda to shoot narrowly off target after some nimble footwork from the Montpellier man in front of Mathlouthi’s goalmouth. Gerets made one switch at the restart, bringing on Taarabt for Assaidi in a bid to salvage something from this opening Cup run out and the QPR forward was quickly making his presence felt. Gerets later introduced Youssef Hadji for Boussoufa and the Rennes striker soon had his head in his hands when after beautifully controlling a long lob in the area he shot wide. Morocco were getting plenty of the ball but the Tunisian backline marshaled by Haggui was holding firm. On 75 minutes second half substitute Msakni bagged his first for his country when fending off Ahmed Kantari and then Badr El Kaddouri to slice the ball across the box and into Lamyaghri’s far corner. Morocco pulled one back with four minutes to go when Ahmed Kantari, who appeared well offside, crossed from the right for Kharja to convert - the Fiorentina midfielder had Tunisian hearts in their mouths again in injury time when shaving the crossbar.— AFP

LIBREVILLE: Balloons fly in the air prior to the African Cup of Nations Group C soccer match between Gabon and Niger at Stade De L’Amitie in Libreville yesterday. — AP

Mali suffer injury blow BONGOVILLE: Mali have suffered yet another injury blow ahead of their opening African Cup of Nations Group D match against Guinea today as striker Mahamane Traore has been ruled out by a foot injury. According to Mali football federation media spokesman Souleymane Diallo, Traore will be replaced by Cheick Fantamady Diarra from Rennes. Nice striker Traore, 23, has

not been involved in his team’s training since they arrived in Gabon for the championship.

Mali have already been forced to make two late changes to their final squad for the tournament.

Toulouse defender Mohamed Fofana has been dropped after he suffered a thigh strain, while Denmark-based Khalilou Traore has also been replaced due to injury.—AFP

$1.6 billion debt talks at Zabeel Investments stall Page 22

KSE equities lose amid volatility Page 24

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Halliburton rides oil boom to Q4 profit

Davos man weighs on future of capitalism Page 25 Page 23

TEHRAN: Iranians buy fish at Tajrish Bazaar in Tehran yesterday. Top European Union diplomats are meeting in Brussels to tighten existing sanctions on Iran by banning imports of Iranian crude as well as targeting finance, petro hemicals and gold to pressure the country. — AFP

Germany, France press for Greek deal IMF chief calls for higher euro-zone firewalls PARIS/BERLIN: Germany and France pressed yesterday for a rapid deal between Greece and its private creditors that returns its soaring debt to sustainable levels and said they remained committed to a new bailout that is needed by March to avert a disastrous default.

Euro zone finance ministers are due to decide later yesterday what terms of a Greek debt restructuring they are ready to accept as part of a second rescue for Athens. Ahead of that meeting, French Finance Minister Francois Baroin said an elusive deal to convince the banks and investment funds that own Greek debt to accept deep losses on their holdings appeared to be “taking shape”.

But his German counterpart Wolfgang Schaeuble warned that any deal must help Greece cut its debt mountain to “not much more than 120 percent of GDP” by the end of the decade, from roughly 160 percent today, something many economists believe will not be achieved by the existing plan.

“The negotiations will be difficult, but we want the second program for Greece to be implemented in March so that the second tranche can be released,” Schaeuble told a news

conference in Paris with Baroin and the heads of the German and French central banks. “Greece must fulfil its commitments, it is difficult and there is already a lot of delay,” Schaeuble said.

After several rounds of talks, Greece and its private creditors are converging on a deal in which private bondholders would take a real loss of 65 to 70 percent on their Greek bonds, officials close to the negotiations say. But some details of the debt restructuring, which will involve swapping existing Greek bonds for new, longer-term bonds are unresolved.

Charles Dallara, the Institute of International Finance chief who is negotiating on behalf of the private debt holders, left Athens over the weekend saying banks had no room to improve their offer.

Sources close to the talks told Reuters yesterday that the impasse centered on questions of whether the deal would return Greece’s debt mountain, currently over 350 billion euros, to levels that European governments believe are sustainable.

“There will likely be an updated debt sustainability analysis that will be discussed at the Eurogroup,” a banking source in Athens said,

requesting anonymity. “Talks will continue this week. The aim is to have an agreement by late next Monday.” In Brussels, European Economic and Monetary Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn said talks had been “moving well” and expressed confidence a deal could be sealed this week.

But German Chancellor Angela Merkel said there was no question of extending Greece a bridging loan if talks with the private sector dragged on further. The euro pushed up to its highest level against the dollar in nearly three weeks on hopes for a successful debt swap.

Speaking in Berlin not far from Merkel’s Chancellery, IMF chief Christine Lagarde urged European governments to increase their financial firewall to prevent Greece’s troubles from ensnaring bigger countries like Italy and Spain. She also called on European leaders to complement the “fiscal compact” they agreed last month with some form of financial risk-sharing, mentioning euro-zone bonds or bills, or a debt redemption fund as possible options. Berlin opposes those steps and Merkel told a news conference with the Belgian prime minister that it was not the time to debate an increase in the euro-zone’s bailout funds-the European Financial Stability

Egypt at 7-week high; Gulf mixed MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS CAIRO/DUBAI: Egypt’s bourse climbed to a seven-week high yesterday after the first sitting of the country’s new parliament lifted hopes of political stability, while Gulf markets were mixed.

Cairo’s main index rose 2.4 percent to its highest close since Dec 6. Almost one year since an uprising unseated President Hosni Mubarak, Egypt’s turbulent politics remain a major obstacle to a return of investor confidence to the country. “The first session of parliament is giving a psychological boost for investors,” said Mohamed Radwan, head of equities at Pharos Securities.

“It looks more like things are progressing and it’s a step towards a more stable environment.”

The index has risen more than 10 percent this month and traders have reported some buying by foreign investors, but they said plans for mass protests against the army on the anniversary of the street revolt have limited market gains.In Saudi Arabia, telecoms operator Zain Saudi helped lift the market on talks the company will get regulatory approval shortly for

a capital restructuring.

The firm is seeking to cut its capital by 55 percent to cover accumulated losses and proposed subsequently issuing 4.4 billion riyals ($1.17 billion) worth of new shares.

Shares in Zain jumped 5.3 percent to their highest close since Oct. 12 and the index gained 0.2 percent. “We are expecting the authorities to approve it any minute... It has already taken much longer than people expected,” said Mohammad Omran, a Saudi based financial analyst.

Small and mid-cap stocks accounted for increased trading, with Nama Chemicals jumping 9.7 percent, Saudi Fisheries rising 3.1 percent and National Shipping Company gaining 6.4 percent. Buying in insurance and small-caps are expected to be high as investors look to benefit from the volatility, traders said.

In Qatar, the index slipped 0.4 percent to its lowest close since Oct. 20, as banks’ cash dividends disappointed.

Masraf Al-Rayan shed 1.8 percent, while Industries Qatar declined 0.4 percent. Qatar International Islamic

Bank fell 1.7 percent after posting an annual net profit rise of 17 percent and recommended a 3.50 riyals cash dividend.

“It’s a favorite stock among local investors but they are still expecting (higher) dividends,” said Ali Al Enin, equity trader at Qatar National Bank.

Dubai ‘s index and Abu Dhabi’s benchmark gained 0.5 percent each as investors accumulated battered stocks on expectations for fourth-quarter earnings. Telecoms operator du advanced 0.4 percent, Air Arabia climbed 1 percent and contractor Arabtec rose 4.1 percent.

“We’re seeing money coming in and allocating into bluechips in Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” said Mar wan Shurrab, vice-president and chief trader at Gulfmena Investments.

“Banks in Abu Dhabi are in focus on expectations that Q4 numbers will be coming out by the end of the month.

Investors are also looking forward to high-dividend yield stocks.” National Bank of Abu Dhabi gained 2.4 percent, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank rose 0.7 percent. — Reuters

Facility (EFSF) and its successor, the 500 billion euro European Stability Mechanism (ESM).

“I don’t think it is right to do one new thing then do another, let’s get the ESM working,” Merkel said, reiterating that Germany was prepared to accelerate the flow of capital into the ESM ahead of its planned introduction in mid2012.

Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti, who has complained openly that his reform efforts have not been recognized by the markets, is reportedly pushing for the rescue fund to be doubled to 1 trillion euros. Lagarde stopped short of advocating that, saying: “I am not saying double it.”

The more immediate worry is Greece. Without the second bailout from the euro zone and the International Monetary Fund, Athens will not be able to pay back 14.5 billion euros in maturing bonds in March, triggering a messy default that would hurt the entire euro zone and send tremors beyond the 13-year old single currency bloc.

Euro-zone leaders agreed in October that the second bailout would total 130 billion euros, if private bondholders forgave half of what Greece owes them in nominal terms. — Reuters

BERLIN: Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Christine Lagarde gestures during her speech about the economic Challenges in 2012 at the German Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin yesterday. — AP

Iraq targets 2012 500,000 bpd oil output increase PRAGUE: Iraq is targeting an increase in oil production and expor ts of 500,000 barrels per day for 2012 and even more of a gain in 2013, its top oil official said yesterday, signalling substantial growth under its ambitious expansion plan.

Speaking to Reuters on the sidelines of a Czech-Iraqi business conference, Deputy Prime Minister for Energy Hussain Al-Shahristani also said Baghdad plans to hold final talks with Exxon Mobil over the company’s oil exploration deal with the semiautonomous Kurdistan government.

“We have added about half million barrels per day in 2011 for production and export, and there will be an additional half a million barrels per day or slightly more in 2012, and even a higher increment in 2013,” Shahristani told Reuters.

Iraq’s production last year averaged roughly 2.7 million bpd, allowing for exports of roughly 2.2 million bpd.

Shahristani said production was now at about 3 million bpd.

Last week, a senior Iraqi oil industry

source said the countr y aimed to boost oil exports by up to 400,000 barrels per day over the next two months as it opens the taps at a new Gulf outlet, signalling the world’s biggest capacity expansion this year.

Now in year three of a bold oil development program, Baghdad finally may be able to export all the extra oil extracted from its supergiant fields by foreign oil companies. Widely flagged export constraints and infrastructure bottlenecks have kept some new oil in the ground and left southern exports running at around 1.7 million bpd for much of last year.

“Now we are producing 3 million barrels per day,” Shahristani said. “As soon as we operate our new export terminal on the 27th of January, we will be able to increase production further. Now we have the capacity to produce, but we cannot move it to the export terminal.”

Shahristani also said Iraq was considering its options concerning Exxon after the oil major signed a deal with the Kurdistan Regional Government in

mid-October for six exploration blocks.

That deal made Exxon the first major to push into the nor thern Kurdish region but angered the Arabdominated central government in Baghdad, which is locked in a feud with the KRG over territory and oil rights. The move prompted Baghdad to consider taking action against the company. Exxon also is leading development of the supergiant West Qurna1 oil field in southern Iraq.

“Iraq is considering its actions and will inform the company before we make any public announcements,” Shahristani said. “The minister of oil has been in touch with them, and they are going to come to the ministry of oil for a final round of discussion, and the ministry will make its announcement and you’ll hear about it when they make it.”

The US major has not commented publicly on the agreement, and Iraqi oil officials say the company has not responded to their requests for an explanation. — Reuters

22

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

business

$1.6 billion debt talks at Zabeel Investments stall Multiple loans in limbo, few assets for sale

TEHRAN: An Iranian man counts banknotes after exchanging a gold coin for cash in Tehran yesterday. Gold coins were being exchanged for over 10,000,000 rials as the Iranian currency continued to lose value against the US dollar. — AFP

Iran’s rial drops 10% after EU oil embargo TEHRAN: Iran’s rial currency plunged 10 percent to a new record low yesterday as the EU imposed a ban on Iranian oil imports, posing a major headache for President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad who has said sanctions will not hurt the economy.

European Union governments agreed to an immediate ban on all new contracts to import, purchase or transport Iranian crude oil and petroleum products, EU officials said, in a move aimed at ramping up pressure on Tehran to curb its nuclear activities.

The ban, which comes on top of new US sanctions aimed at hampering Iran’s oil exports around the world, sent Iranians rushing to convert their savings into hard currency as efforts to curb black market trading failed.

The price of dollars rose 7 percent from Saturday, the last working day, to 20,500 rials, up 15 percent from last week. It has rallied almost 50 percent from a month ago, according to the financial website Mesghal.

The rial’s slide is likely to exacerbate

inflation which is already at 20 percent and rising, as Iran is heavily reliant on imported consumer and intermediate goods whose prices have surged as the rial has depreciated. Yesterday’s black market dollar price was 80 percent more than the central bank’s official “reference rate” of 11,300 rials - a rate not available to normal Iranians or most importers.

The rial had been weakening for several months after a decision last April to reduce interest rates on bank deposits to below the inflation rate. However, new economic pressures from Washington and Brussels have greatly accelerated the problem.

The EU said yesterday it was also freezing the assets of Iran’s central bank and was banning trade in gold and other precious metals with the bank and state bodies. Iranian media said policies aimed at stemming the currency slide had had the perverse impact of driving dollar prices higher as Iranians were forced to seek hard currency through touts rather than official exchange offices. — Reuters

Batelco Q4 profit up 13% as subscriber base widens DUBAI: Bahrain Telecommunications (Batelco) yesterday reported a 13-percent rise in quarterly profits, beating estimates as its subscriber base expanded and a loss-making foreign affiliate was dropped from its earnings.

The former monopoly made a net profit of 23.5 million dinars in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, according to Reuters calculations, compared with a profit of 20.8 million dinars in the prioryear period. Two analysts polled by Reuters forecast the firm would post a quarterly profit of between 17.6 million and 20.4 million dinars.

Batelco’s fourth-quarter revenue was 81.5 million dinars, down from 84 million dinars a year earlier. As of Sept. 30, lossmaking Indian affiliate S Tel, in which Batelco owns a 43-percent stake, is no longer recognized as a loss on the

Bahraini firm’s earnings statement because the unit is now classified as an asset for sale. Batelco’s subscriber base was 11 million in the fourth quarter, up 20 percent from a year earlier. It operates in seven countries, including Yemen, Egypt and Jordan.

Batelco proposed a dividend of 40 fils per share for 2011, down from 45 fils per share for 2010, while the firm’s cash balance is now 107.9 million dinars, up 24 percent from a year ago. The firm’s shares ended flat on Bahrain’s bourse before the results were announced. The stock has fallen by a third in the past two years. Batelco is eyeing a sale and lease back deal for its tower assets in Bahrain and Jordan, a banking source familiar with the matter said in December, in a move that would raise funds for potential acquisitions. —Reuters

DUBAI: Debt restructuring talks at Zabeel Investments, owned by the crown prince of Dubai, have ground to a halt with multiple loans in limbo and few assets available for sale, leaving banks facing steep haircuts, five people familiar with the matter said.

Zabeel, which has hospitality, property and private equity assets, owes approximately 6 billion dirhams ($1.6 billion) to mostly local banks.

Despite nearly 18 months of talks, little progress has been made, four sources involved in the process told Reuters. Despite its high-profile ownership, Zabeel-which received two loans in 2009 from the Dubai Financial Support Fund (DFSF), including one to help meet a coupon payment-has not been allocated more funds by the DFSF nor has it formally requested government help.

“The banks can talk about it all they want but it is not going to get them anywhere,” a Dubaibased banker with knowledge of the matter said, citing the limited legal options available to lenders. The banker spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject.

Three sources involved in the process said it was highly unlikely that legal action would be brought against Zabeel by lenders.

Zabeel declined comment. Zabeel’s chief executive left the firm in August, while several board members, including the chairman, resigned in April. Independent investment bank Moelis & Co was appointed to advise the firm on its financial position in mid-2010. Moelis declined to comment. Zabeel, which once had stakes in Sony Corp and planemaker EADS, has offloaded assets, including businesses in Las

Vegas, to keep up interest payments, two financial industry sources said. The asset sales, which included some pledged as collateral for loan facilities, have infuriated banks which have been powerless to act even as the firm subsequently halted interest payments, putting it technically in default, the financial industry sources said.

Banks have sent multiple notices demanding repayment, one of them added. But no legal action has been taken and it was not known whether such a step would succeed in a Dubai court. Asset sales stopped in November, making it unclear how the company will finance itself and its future debt payments. It was not known what other sources of funding Zabeel might tap.

Zabeel, formed in 2006 and owned by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed al-Maktoum, 29, owns the exclusive Zabeel Saray hotel on the Palm Jumeirah man-made island. The company has sold some of the high-end villas developed as part of the complex. Like many Gulf investment vehicles, Zabeel was hit hard by the 2008 global financial crisis. Dubai Holding, the investment vehicle owned by the crown prince’s father and Dubai ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid AlMaktoum, has restructured a number of branches of the company. The largest of these, the $10 billion reorganization of Dubai Group, is continuing. Meanwhile, agreements have been secured for debt worth $2.4 billion and for $555 million belonging to Dubai International Capital and Dubai Holding Commercial Operations Group respectively.

However, despite being the crown prince’s firm, the negotiations for Zabeel have gone largely under the radar as much of the debt is

bilateral and not publicly disclosed. The aid package from the DFSF, set up to help ailing firms in the emirate, was awarded at least six months before Dubai World shook global markets with its call to restructure $25 billion of obligations in November 2009.

No figure was given by the sources as to the amount of support given, although it is said to be separate from the 6 billion dirhams debt pile.

The bilateral nature of the loans also leaves banks, especially local institutions, in a worse position. “Aside from a 400 million dirhams syndicated loan, the majority of Zabeel’s obligations are bilateral loans which are practically impossible to trade in the secondary (market) — if a trade had happened, it would have made a lot of noise,“ Ahmad Alanani, director, senior executive officer at Exotix, said.

Sources said that among local creditors are Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank, Commercial Bank International , Commercial Bank of Dubai and Emirates NBD. HSBC, which had one of the largest exposures to Dubai World, is among the few international creditors.

One bank to have secured a debt deal with Zabeel is Royal Bank of Scotland, which took an 80 percent haircut on a deal involving a hospitality venture in Las Vegas, two banking sources said. Zabeel is now using this 20 cents on the dollar figure as a negotiating position with the other banks-something the banks are unwilling to accept despite their limited options.

“This has set the benchmark for Zabeel’s negotiations, with the company saying ‘if RBS took 20 cents on the dollar, why won’t you?’,” the Dubai-based banker said. — Reuters

Omani Islamic banks to float shares by June

MAF sees no bonds until markets improve DUBAI: Majid Al-Futtaim (MAF) Holding, the sole franchisee for hypermarket chain Carrefour in the Gulf, will stay clear of a planned bond sale until market conditions stabilize, the company said in a statement yesterday. The mall developer completed roadshows for a conventional offering from its $2 billion medium term notes program in June last year but decided not to issue a bond citing unfavorable market conditions. It also picked Dubai Islamic Bank, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, HSBC and Standard Chartered to set up a $1 billion Islamic bond program.

In November, a senior executive said the eventual sukuk would be between $350 million and $500 million carry a five-year tenor. “Having set up the EMTN and Sukuk programs, we can now wait for the right market conditions and choose whether to issue a sukuk or a conventional bond,” Iyad Malas, chief executive of MAF said in a statement. Malas said the company was under no pressure to do an issuance and has sufficient liquidity to cover its needs for at least 18 months.

Unlisted MAF said that its 2011 revenues grew by 10 percent year over year to 18.7 billion dirhams ($5.09 billion). Its total assets are valued at over 35 billion dirhams and net debt of around 7.5 billion dirhams. Its property unit saw a revenue increase of 21 percent to 2.8 billion dirhams. The developer said that it expects to open around 15 new Carrefour hypermarkets and about 25 to 30 new supermarkets in 2012. MAF raised $1 billion loan from a group of banks in July. The facility would be used for refinancing of a $1 billion loan maturing in July 2012 and to strengthen the liquidity position, the company said. — Reuters

MUSCAT: Oman’s two Islamic banks will float 40 percent of their shares by June, the sultanate’s central bank Executive President Hamood Sangour al-Zadjali said yesterday.

“Bank Nizwa will issue an initial public offering of 40 percent of its capital of 150 million rials ($389.61 million), while Al Izz International Bank will issue 40 percent of its 100 million rials capital by June this year,” Zadjali told reporters on the sidelines of an Islamic finance conference. Both

banks, which are currently under formation, were awarded sharia-compliant banking licenses last year - Bank Nizwa in May and Al Izz in August - after the sultanate reversed its position as the only Gulf Arab state which did not allow banks to specifically offer products and services complying with Islamic law. Bank Nizwa has picked Oman Arab Bank as the issue manager for its IPO, an Omani banking source said, speaking on condition of anonymity because the information is not public. — Reuters

Abu Dhabi hotel guest arrivals up 6.5% in 2011 ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi’s hotels posted a 6.5 percent growth in guest arrivals and a 3 percent revenue increase in 2011, helped by new hotels and more domestic tourists, the Gulf emirate’s tourism body said yesterday. Hotel guests totaled 2.11 million last year, exceeding the target of 2 million, the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) said in a statement.

Occupancy levels averaged 69 percent, up 7 percent and revenues rose 3 percent to 4.37 billion dirhams ($1.19 billion). “For 2012 ... we had initially a target of 2.3 million (guests) but, in conjunction with

stakeholders, will now reassess to see if this too, can be stretched,” said Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al-Nahayan, chairman of ADTA. The improved numbers were due to new hotels on Saadiyat island and the opening of ADTA’s offices in Russia and the United States, its heightened focus on Asian markets, hosting of events and the expansion of Etihad Airways, he said.

Domestic tourism accounted for 39 percent of overall 2011 arrivals with the Gulf Arab states, including the UAE, making up 45 percent of hotel guests. — Reuters

EXCHANGE RATES Commercial Bank of Kuwait US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian Dollar Australian DLR Indian rupees Sri Lanka Rupee UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi riyals Omani riyals Philippine peso Egyptian pounds

.2730000 .4270000 .3550000 .2940000 .2730000 .2870000 .0040000 .0020000 .0754990 .7355610 .3810000 .0710000 .7210850 .0040000 .0430000

CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES US Dollar/KD .2781000 GB Pound/KD .4291080 Euro .3576090 Swiss francs .2960720 Canadian dollars .2752380 Danish Kroner .0480910 Swedish Kroner .0406660 Australian dlr .2891270 Hong Kong dlr .0358180 Singapore dlr .2176230 Japanese yen .0036230 Indian Rs/KD .0000000 Sri Lanka rupee .0000000 Pakistan rupee .0000000 Bangladesh taka .0000000 UAE dirhams .0757460 Bahraini dinars .7379590 Jordanian dinar .0000000 Saudi Riyal/KD .0741800 Omani riyals .7226190 Philippine Peso .0000000

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. ASIAN COUNTRIES

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar Bangladesh Taka Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - Transfer Irani Riyal - Cash

3.598 5.337 3.154 2.436 3.341 213.250 35.672 3.580 6.336 8.873 0.271 0.273

.2815000 .4370000 .3640000 .3030000 .2820000 .2960000 .0070000 .0035000 .0762570 .7429540 .4020000 .0770000 .7283320 .0072000 .0520000 .2802000 .4323490 .3603090 .2983070 .2773160 .0484540 .0409730 .2913100 .0360890 .2192660 .0036510 .0056040 .0024680 .0031150 .0033580 .0763180 .7435320 .3963220 .0747400 .7280760 .0065140

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

GCC COUNTRIES 74.150 76.402 722.230 738.540 75.715

Pakistani rupees Philippine peso Qatari riyal Saudi riyal Singapore dollar South Africa Sri Lankan rupees Sterling pound Swedish krona Swiss franc Syrian pound Thai bhat Tunisian dollar UAE dirham U.S. dollars Yemeni Riyal

ARAB COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound - Cash 47.500 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 46.282 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.272 Tunisian Dinar 189.860 Jordanian Dinar 392.670 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.865 Syrian Lier 6.003 Morocco Dirham 33.814 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 277.950 Euro 370.650 Sterling Pound 431.930 Canadian dollar 268.420 Turkish lire 153.940 Swiss Franc 300.620 Australian dollar 277.000 US Dollar Buying 277.750 GOLD 315.500 159.000 81.500

20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

COUNTRY

SELL CASH

Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash Hongkong dollar Indian rupees Indonesia Iranian tuman Iraqi dinar Japanese yen Jordanian dinar Lebanese pound Malaysian ringgit Morocco dirham Nepalese Rupees New Zealand dollar Nigeria Norwegian krone Omani Riyal

296.700 742.660 3.700 278.900 548.500 44.600 49.600 167.800 48.270 364.500 36.660 5.760 0.032 0.206 0.247 3.720 396.020 0.189 93.300 46.200 4.290 229.200 1.809 48.400 725.360

SELL DRAFT

295.200 742.660 3.330 277.400

221.100 46.239 363.000 36.510 5.560 0.031

10 Tola

76.040 279.200

Currency

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 436.500 279.200

Sterling Pound US Dollar

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Selling Rate

US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupees Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Cyprus pound Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

279.150 278.765 435.360 362.880 298.545 739.225 75.980 76.625 74.400 392.945 46.231 2.447 5.569 3.103 3.314 6.442 684.745 3.720 8.945 5.880 3.570 92.725

3.68 3.307 5.553 2.451 3.482 3.094 76.00 742.66 46.23 397.21 725.62 76.99 74.55

3.70 3.700 5.735 2.660 4.250 3.260 76.50 742.65 48.27 396.00 728.00 77.25 75.90

Australian Dollar Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc Euro Sterling Pound

Currency

Transfer Rate (Per 1000)

297.37 279.96 303.49 363.95 436.44

Rate per 1000 (Tran)

US Dollar Pak Rupees Indian Rupees Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso UAE Dirhams Saudi Riyals Bahraini Dinars Egyptian Pounds Pound Sterling Indonesian Rupiah Yemeni Riyal Euro Canadian Dollars Nepali rupee

279.200 3.100 5.570 2.460 3.325 6.490 76.120 74.595 742.300 46.195 439.900 3.190 1.550 364.500 283.200 3.690

Al Mulla Exchange

UAE Exchange Center WLL Currency

725.180

300.400 4.400 9.060

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

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co.

395.700 0.188 93.300 3.490 227.700

3.110 6.455 76.820 74.560 221.120 37.690 2.448 436.500

GOLD 1,737.660

Rate for Transfer

Bahrain Exchange Company

3.200 6.780 77.250 74.560 221.120 37.690 2.649 438.500 42.400 301.900 4.400 9.220 198.263 76.140 279.600 1.280

297.00 280.00 303.00 368.00 438.50

US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen Indian Rupee Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupee Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso Pakistan Rupee Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Saudi Riyal *Rates are subject to change

Transfer Rate (Per 1000)

278.950 363.000 433.800 278.700 3.630 5.550 46.205 2.449 3.255 6.452 3.096 742.800 76.000 74.500

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

business

India drawn to Iran’s favorable oil terms: Minister NEW DELHI: India wants to take as much Iranian oil as it can because terms are “favorable”, Oil Minister S Jaipal Reddy said yesterday, after talks between the two sides last week on payment options for $12 billion of crude a year following fresh US sanctions.

“It will be our endeavor in future to tap the Iran source fully because the terms are fairly favorable,” Reddy told journalists at an energy conference, adding India was exploring all options to pay for the crude. India, the world’s fourth-largest oil consumer, buys around 12 percent of its oil from the Islamic Republic.

It pays through a Turkish bank after a

previous clearing mechanism was shut down in December 2010.

But tougher US sanctions signed into law on Dec. 31 in a further bid to pressure Iran to rein in its nuclear ambitions make the route through Halkbank vulnerable.

An Indian delegation went to Tehran last week to discuss options and the two sides have agreed India could use its restricted rupee currency for some of the payments, a government source said on Friday. An industry source confirmed yesterday that India was considering rupee payments while ruling out the possibility of paying in yen.

A rupee account for Iran could be

used to settle Tehran’s imports from third countries, the industry source said.

“It will be an extension of the rupee arrangement wherever possible,” the source said on condition of anonymity.

“Iran was very accommodative,” Reddy said, adding that India respected United Nations sanctions but “we don’t go by sanctions imposed by regional blocks, by certain nations.”

Yesterday, the European Union banned imports of oil from Iran and imposed a number of other economic sanctions, joining the United States in new measures aimed at deflecting Tehran’s nuclear development program.

Washington suspects Iran of trying

to make nuclear weapons but Tehran rejects the charge and says its program is for peaceful means. The United States also wants buyers in Asia, Iran’s biggest oil market, to cut imports to put further pressure on its economy, in what Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has called a “strangling effect” to trigger popular discontent.

“We go by our interest,” Reddy said.

“Iran is the second-largest supplier (to India) so we need to utilize that source.”

Iran currently offers Indian refiners 90 days of credit, more than other major suppliers. Term contracts run from April 1 to March 31.

The unprecedented effort to take

Iran’s 2.6 million barrels of oil per day off international markets has kept global prices high, pushed down Iran’s rial currency and caused a surge in the cost of basic goods for Iranians. Iran is the world’s No 5 oil exporter and a regional rival to fellow OPEC member and leading exporter Saudi Arabia, which has said it could pump more oil to respond to any emergencies.

Indian refiners, like other buyers in Asia, have been looking to diversify crude supplies from Iran.

China, Iran’s biggest customer, cut imports in January and February over contract terms and has been looking for alternative supplies. —Reuters

Davos man weighs on future of capitalism Arab spring leaders to attend WEF 2012

SEATTLE: Icicles can be seen on a Hawaiian Airlines plane as others are de-iced in the background, at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, in Seattle. JetBlue Airways Corp and Hawaiian Airlines have formed a partnership yesterday.— AP

JetBlue, Hawaiian Airlines ink partnership deal NEW YORK: JetBlue Airways Corp and Hawaiian Airlines have formed a partnership that will allow passengers to fly on both carriers’ flights on a single ticket.

The deal, which is expected to be formally announced later, follows Hawaiian Airlines’ announcement of plans to add New York service direct from its home base in Honolulu starting in June. Customers on both airlines will be able to connect with those flights through JetBlue’s base at New York’s JFK. In the meantime, passengers can connect through Los Angeles International Airport to Hawaiian Airlines one-stop serv-

ice from Hawaii to New York. Besides added flight options, travelers will also be able to earn or redeem frequent flier miles on each other’s flights, starting with the New York service in June.

Partnerships like this allow airlines to expand their service without spending more money to add flights on their own.

Hawaiian Airlines already has similar partnerships, called codeshares, with major US airlines including United-Continental, Delta and American. JetBlue has deals with a number of international carriers, including Ireland’s Aer Lingus, Virgin Atlantic Airways and Emirates. — AP

US economists see pickup in growth for 2012 LOS ANGELES: A new economic forecast calls for the US economy to make some modest growth strides this year, but not quite enough to significantly reduce the number of jobless Americans looking for work. About two-thirds of the economists who participated in the latest National Association for Business Economics survey expect the nation’s gross domestic product, or GDP, to grow at a rate above 2 percent this year, according to the outlook released yesterday.

GDP reflects the economy’s total output of goods and services. The latest forecast is in line with one issued by the group in November that called for the economy to grow 2.4 percent this year. “That is not the sort of GDP growth that’s really going to dramatically improve our labor market, but it’s certainly not going to make it worse,” Nayantara Hensel, professor of industry and business at National Defense University and chair of the NABE survey, said in an interview.

GDP growth needs to be above 3 percent to significantly lower unemployment, which is at its lowest rate in nearly three years, but remains at a troubling 8.5 percent. The NABE economists previously forecast growth of 1.8 percent for all of 2011. Final GDP numbers for the last three months of 2011 are due out Friday.

The recent improvement in the unemployment rate, a pickup in retail sales during the holiday season, and hopefulness that Congress

will be able to reach a debt reduction deal, are among the factors behind the rosier GDP outlook among better than 60 percent of the survey respondents.

Almost two-thirds of respondents said they expect no change in employment, the highest share of survey participants to hold that view in recent quarters. And the share of those who expect hiring to pick up in the next six months declined to 27 percent from 29 percent in the previous survey.

That doesn’t bode well for new job growth, but it also suggests employers don’t expect to slash payrolls further. A majority of the respondents said wages and salaries are unchanged, while nearly all expect either no change in prices or increases by their companies of 5 percent or less.

The holding pattern on prices could reflect a caution on the part of businesses due to uncertainty in the economy, given the burgeoning debt crisis in Europe, rising tensions with Iran and the potential for higher oil prices, Hensel said. On the sales front, about 81 percent of the survey participants, which include some company managers, said sales were either unchanged or rising along with profit margins. But 19 percent said sales were falling.

Some 63 percent of the NABE forecasters on the panel expect that there will be no impact from the European debt crisis on sales over the next six months. — AP

DAVOS: The Occupy movement, which went global after protests against Wall Street last year, is camping in igloos to bring its argument with the super-rich “1 percent” to Davos.

It is a reminder to the leaders of finance and industry at the World Economic Forum of the resentment that is leading to questions about the future direction of capitalism. “At meetings the rest of society is excluded from, this powerful ‘1 percent’ negotiates and decides about the fate of the other 99 percent of this world,” says David Roth, “Camp Igloo” organizer and head of the Swiss centre-left’s youth wing. “The economic and financial concentration of power in a small, privileged minority leads to a dictatorship over the rest of us. The motto ‘one person, one vote’ is no longer valid, but ‘one dollar, one vote’.

We want to change that.”

Roth’s group has set up camp in sub-zero temperatures and snow to “occupy” the WEF in a car park just outside the security cordon around the meeting that has become a byword for globalization.

He is seeking dialogue with the WEF but few of the 2,000 visitors are likely to see the camp by the train station, many preferring to travel by private jet or helicopter from Zurich. A one-way trip costs 5,100 Swiss francs ($5,500) according to a WEF handout. Police arrested two men suspected of scrawling “SMASH WEF” on the walls of the Swiss National Bank in Zurich last week.

They also stopped an unauthorized anti-WEF demonstration in the capital Berne on Saturday.

In its Global Risk Report earlier this month, the WEF showed it is well aware of the Zeitgeist, warning that a backlash against rising inequality risks derailing the advance of globalization and threatens growth worldwide. Rising youth unemployment, a retirement crisis among pensioners dependent on debt-burdened states and a wealth gap have sown the “seeds of dystopia,” according to the report, based on a survey of 469 experts and industry leaders.

“The middle class is thinning out,” says Lee Howell, the WEF managing director behind the report. “It’s no longer simply cyclical, with everybody down and everybody getting to go back up. This time some people may not get up.”

Klaus Schwab, a former business school professor who launched the annual get-together in 1971, is calling for more humility from executives who he says “have still not learned the lessons from past mistakes”.

“Dystopia, the opposite of utopia, could precipitate a downward spiral of the global economy, pulled by social disruption, protectionism, nationalism and populism,” he says.

A survey of 1,200 experts the WEF published yesterday showed fear of a major geopolitical disruption over the next year has risen significantly to 54 percent from 36 percent last quarter.

Ahead of this year’s Davos meeting, based on the theme“The Great Transformation: Shaping New Models”, everybody is adding their two cents to the debate on the state of the world.

British Prime Minister David Cameron, who speaks at Davos on Thursday, says years of uncontrolled “turbo capitalism” have broken the link between risk and reward, giving some executives generous pay deals despite lackluster performance. In a “Call to Action” ahead of Davos, 11 leaders of international organizations including International Monetary Fund head Christine Lagarde said economic growth, jobs and protec-

tionism are the top three worries at the start of 2012.

Davos 2012 sees some changing of the guard.

It is welcoming leaders from the Arab Spring like Tunisian Prime Minister Hammadi Jebali, interim Libyan Prime Minister Abdel Rahim El Keib as well as Egyptian presidential candidates.

Imran Khan, the former cricketer Pakistani politician, will be bringing his campaign against corruption to the meeting. The WEF will also be putting up in local schools about 70 young people it calls its “global shapers” who are supposed to develop leadership potential so they can “serve society”.

There are notable absences of Davos regulars like former IMF head Dominique Strauss-Kahn, Swiss central bank chief Philipp Hildebrand, Greece’s former prime minister George Papandreou and bank UBS chief Oswald

DAVOS: Police officers attend a security meeting in front of the congress center yesterday at the Swiss resort of Davos. — AFP (See Page 25) Gruebel, all felled in recent months.

Rupert Murdoch, who had to pull out last year as his News Corp media empire became embroiled in a scandal over phone hacking, is not expected for a second year running.

But it is striking how many names remain the same despite the upheaval since the financial crisis of 2008. Of 30 video messages from Davos co-chairs and partners posted by the WEF ahead of the meeting, all are from men, with only a few Asian or Middle Eastern faces among the ranks of middle-aged white males. One is Arif Naqvi, chief executive of Abraaj Capital, a private equity manager that specializes in emerging markets.

“We have a crisis of leadership,” Naqvi said.

“The Occupy Wall Street movement is going to gain momentum in different cities simply because of the inequality issue and we need to address it.”

In a December report, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said the earnings gap between the rich and poor had reached its highest level in 30 years. The wealthy share rose across the OECD in the three decades from 1980 to 2010, although much more so in the United States, followed by

recession this year are “not at all in line with reality,” he added. A number of organizations, including France’s own statistics agency, have predicted the country will fall into a brief recession early this year.

A recession is defined as at least two consecutive quarters of negative quarter-onquarter growth. The Bank of France earlier this month said the economy was flat in the last three months of 2011, with no growth between the third and fourth quarters. The French government is predicting overall growth of one percent in 2012.— AFP

“What business has to realize is that they will not survive if demand continues to collapse.”

The WEF’s Schwab says capitalism’s original distinction between the entrepreneur and the salaryman has been corrupted by excessive pay.

He says top managers should not earn more than 20 times their lowest paid worker.

The gap between the top and bottom on pay is biggest in the United States, where average CEO remuneration is 142 times that of employees, according to Thomson Reuters ASSET4 data.

Former White House aide Larry Summers cites an opinion poll which showed that 40 percent of Americans no longer have a positive opinion of capitalism but says he believes the crisis of confidence in the system could be addressed with sufficient fiscal and monetary stimulus to kick-start growth.

Many business leaders meeting in Davos believe their most important contribution to fixing the crisis is creating jobs. “There is a tremendous risk of social apathy with the slow growth in the economy that is currently happening so job creation for companies is tremendously important,” said Unilever chief executive Paul Polman in a WEF video message. — Reuters

France pushes Airbus fleet renewal option to Latvia

French CB chief predicts quick return to growth PARIS: French central bank chief Christian Noyer said yesterday he expected France’s economy to begin a progressive return to growth after a period of stagnation this year, dismissing predictions of a recession.

“Our feeling is that, after the period of stability seen in the economy in the fourth quarter of 2011 and probably the start of this year, we are expecting a progressive acceleration in activity,” Noyer said at a press conference after a meeting of French and German officials.

Predictions of France entering a brief

Australia, Canada, Britain and Ireland.

“Rising inequality is one of the major risks to our future prosperity and security,” said OECD Chief Economist Pier Carlo Padoan yesterday.

“The main challenge facing governments today is implementing reforms that get growth back on track, put people to work and reduce the widening income gap.”

“Is 20th-century capitalism failing 21st-century society?” asks the first debate at the meeting which starts on Wednesday. Sharan Burrow, general secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation, is one of the speakers in that debate.

“It is too simplistic to say we need a new system. The system is not working because of extraordinary greed, extraordinary inequality and attacks on workers’ rights that are leading to a crash in demand,” she told Reuters.

BRUSSELS: Italian Prime and Finance Minister Mario Monti salutes Spanish Finance Minister Luis De Guindos yesterday before a Eurogroup Council meeting at EU headquarters in Brussels. Euro-zone finance ministers meet to fine-tune strategy to fight the debt crisis and to focus on difficult negotiations in Athens on socalled Private-Sector Involvement. — AFP

RIGA: French Transport Minister Thierry Mariani said yesterday he had passed on to fellow EU member state Latvia a bid from Airbus to modernize the fleet operated by its flag-carrier airBaltic.

“Naturally I am happy to support the offer made by Airbus, and am confident airBaltic will choose the offer that best meets its requirements,” Mariani told journalists after a meeting with Latvian Prime Minister Valdis Dombrovskis and Transport Minister Aivis Ronis. “Airbus provides the possibility to make a European choice,” Mariani added.

Few details of the Airbus offer were released, though Mariani did say that it included the possibility of offset compensation and additional staff training to encourage airBaltic to switch from the Boeing-made planes which iy operated on its main international routes.

The size and timescale of any potential deal was a matter for the Latvian government, Mariani underlined. Ronis told AFP: “AirBaltic needs to change some of its planes in the near future

and will have to make a decision in February. In the long term it needs to fully renew its fleet.” “ We are a European countr y and European choices are always important to us,” Ronis said.

Currently airBaltic’s fleet comprises two Boeing 757s and 14 Boeing 737s as well as 8 Bombardier Q400s and 10 Fok ker 50 aircraf t. The airline was founded in 1995, four years after Latvia regained independence from the crumbling Soviet Union.

Since the nation of two million joined the European Union in 2004, airBaltic has won a reputation as a lowcost regional force. It has just emerged from a bitter ownership battle which resulted in the state upping its stake in the company on December 1 from 52 percent to 99 percent.

The buyout took place to save the airline from possible insolvency following the collapse of two of its main creditors, Baltic banks K rajbank a and Snoras. — AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

business

KSE equities lose amid rising market volatility GLOBAL DAILY MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) lost ground again yesterday ending a brief winning streak that started on Sunday. Overall, the past few weeks has seen increased volatility in stock prices with a bearish mode in stock market due to growing concerns about expected slowdown in corporate earnings this year.

Global General Index (GGI) ended the day down by 0.22 percent, at 177.77 point. Market capitalization was down for the day, reaching KD29.09bn. On the other hand, KSE Price Index closed at 5,787.8 point, shedding 9.30 points (0.16 percent) from its previous close.

Market breadth During the session, 108 companies were traded. Market breadth was skewed towards decliners as 47 equities retreated versus 29 that advanced. Yesterday’s performance was accompanied by growing trading activity, as we approach the end of January. The volume of shares traded on the exchange increased by 5.41 percent, at 374.26mn shares.

Investment groups accounted for 157.48mn (42.08 percent) of the market’s total volume. Al-Madina for Finance & Investment Company saw increased investor interest, with 68.16mn shares changing hands.

The scrip closed up by 1.35 percent at KD0.075.

In terms of top gainers, Fujairah Cement Industries Company was the top gainer for the day, adding 9.43 percent to its share value and closing at KD0.058. On the other hand, share price of Industrial & Financial Investments Company retreated by 7.69 percent and closed at KD0.024, making it the biggest decliners in the market for the second day in a row.

Sectors Sector wise, 6 out of 8 Global sector indices witnessed losses. Global Insurance Index leading the list with a loss of 0.93 percent. Al-Ahleia Insurance Company lost 4.00 percent and 1st Takaful Insurance (-1.92 percent). On the other side, Kuwait Insurance Company was the only gainer within the sector adding 1.79 percent to close at KD0.285.

The losses witnessed in 5 out of the 28 shares in the industrial sector, dragged Global Industrial Index down by 0.58 percent. Out of the losers in this sector, National Industries Group (Holding) lost 2.70 percent, while Kuwait Metal Pipe Industries & Oil Services Company retreated by 1.59 percent. It’s worth

mentioning that Global Industrial Index lost 4.60 percent since the beginning of 2012.

Investment sector witnessed heavy trading, with Global Investment Index retreating by 0.24 percent. The retreat was on the back of the losses registered in many stocks, such as National Investment Company which lost 1.25 percent, Sokouk Holding Company which retreated by 3.03 percent and First Investment Company which declined by 1.82 percent. Banking sector also retreated by 0.46 percent as both Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait and Kuwait Finance House shares retreated by 1.52 percent and 1.14 percent to end the day at KD0.650 and KD0.870 respectively.

On the other hand, non Kuwaiti sector registered a good performance yesterday on the back of the gains registered in UAE based cement companies. In addition, Ithmaar Bank closed up by 2.78 percent at KD0.0185.

Corporate news First Investment Company clarified media reports regarding settling 50 percent of its debt and announced that it is undergoing negotiations with its creditors to settle the remaining amount during 2012. The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $111.37pb on Friday, compared with $111.59pb the previous day, according to OPEC secretariat calculations.

Oil rises above $110, Iran embargo helps LONDON: Oil prices rose above $110 yesterday after EU envoys agreed to embargo Iranian oil from the start of July, but gains were capped by euro zone debt concerns as the wrangling continued over a restructuring of Greek debt.

Brent crude oil futures were up 34 cents at $110.20 a barrel by 1013 GMT. US crude was up 7 cents to $98.40 after dipping to $97.40, the lowest since Dec 21.

Analysts and traders said the move against Iran by the European Union was largely priced in and that the market remained focused on attempts to restructure Greek debt ahead of key repayment date March 20, when 14.5 billion euros ($18.7 billion) is due.

EU ambassadors said there would be a grace period, which ends on July 1, for the full implementation of the embargo on Iran’s crude oil. This means EU governments will have to stop signing new contracts with Tehran from the moment the ban comes into place - probably as soon as this week - but will be able to fulfill existing contracts until July 1.

“Because of the delay in full implementation, it hasn’t pushed the price up as much as it might have done,” said Christopher Bellew, a trader at Jefferies Bache. “It may never be fully implemented. Heaven knows what will happen between now and the first of July.” “It is priced in already, and as it will phased in over a period of several months, the support to prices should be rather limited,” agreed Carsten Fritsch, an energy analyst at Commerzbank in Frankfurt. He added that slow demand growth due to problems in the euro zone is providing a counterweight to the sup-

ply side risk. Private creditors said on Sunday they had come to the limits of what losses they could concede in a Greek debt swap.

Euro-zone finance ministers now have to decide what terms of a Greek debt restructuring they are ready to accept as part of a second bailout package for Athens.

Resolving the issue is key to avoiding a chaotic default that could threaten the entire currency bloc.

EU governments are also expected to agree on new restrictive measures against Iran’s central bank over its nuclear program.

The European Union’s new sanctions follow fresh financial measures signed into law by US President Barack Obama on New Year’s Eve and will mainly target the oil sector, which accounts for some 90 percent of Iranian exports to the EU. Europe is Iran’s second-largest oil customer after China.

Banning Iranian imports will lead to competition between consumers for supplies just as an economic revival in the world’s biggest oil consumer, the United States, looks set to boost demand.

Away from Iranian sanctions and currency drivers, Bellew said Syria would be next on the market’s radar, because it appeared to be sliding towards civil war.

“As usual there are more reasons for the market to go up then for it to collapse,” he said.

Syria has rejected a request

by Arab League foreign ministers that President Bashar alAssad hand over power to a deputy and set up a new unity government, saying the plan was part of a “conspiracy against Syria”. — Reuters

25

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

business

Australia’s LNG boom fizzles as costs bite PERTH: Just a few years after it started, Australia’s liquefied natural gas bonanza may be drawing to a close, throttled by swelling costs, tightening credit and mounting foreign competition to supply Asian buyers. New Australian projects have been getting approved at a furious pace, with six kicked off in the past 18 months.

About $180 billion worth of LNG export projects are now being built, putting the country on track to quadruple its LNG exports by the end of the decade.

With the recent approval of the $34 billion Ichthys project, Australia should also overtake Qatar as the world’s top exporter of LNG by around 2017, but the window of opportunity for the giant projects appears to be closing.

“There’s vastly more being offered into the pipeline now- from the United States, Russia, Canada-and so the whole supply perspective has changed and Australia now looks very vulnerable,” said Tony Regan, an analyst with Tri-Zen International in Singapore. Japan’s Inpex Corp and France’s Total last week approved the 8.4 million ton-per-annum capacity Ichthys project in the Browse Basin offshore Western Australia.

But hotter overseas competition and higher costs are likely to discourage approval of new mega projects.

Instead, expansion in Australia is likely to take place at existing facilities, or

brownfield projects. The only other project expected to be given the green light this year is an expansion of Origin Energy and ConocoPhillips’ Australia Pacific LNG project.

“The one big greenfield opportunity that still remains is Browse. After that, in the main, you’re looking at brownfield expansion,” said Craig McMahon, a Wood Mackenzie analyst in Perth, referring to Woodside Petroleum’s Browse LNG project.

But prospects are dimming for Browse, which saw a final investment decision pushed back by a year to mid-2013 as costs escalate, some analysts say. “Unless they can demonstrate that they can control costs, something like Browse looks particularly vulnerable,” Tri-Zen’s Regan said.

The costs of Australian LNG projects are notoriously high and Woodside’s A$14.9-billion Pluto LNG project, which is expected to come online in March, was delayed by one year and came in about $1 billion over-budget.

Australian LNG projects typically come in with costs between $6 and $8 per million British thermal units (mmBtu), while most non-Australian projects cost less than $6 per mmBtu. In addition, some analysts estimate that Australian LNG projects are typically delayed nine months to a year and come in around 15 percent over budget. With cheaper projects available, particularly in the United States,

and credit tightening globally, financiers are unlikely to have as much appetite for pricey Australian gas ventures, experts say.

In addition, Australian LNG developers face an extremely high-cost labor market as well as a recently approved carbon tax, which analysts say will initially have a minor impact on the bottom line, but will inevitably erode profit margins, particularly projects that have a high carbon dioxide content in the raw gas. “When you consider the magnitude of the development costs associated with these projects, the carbon tax quickly becomes insignificant by comparison,” Wood Mackenzie’s McMahon said.

“Whilst it clearly does not help, I think it’s very unlikely that the carbon tax would ever break a project.” The carbon tax starts with a fixed price of A$23 from July before full emissions trading from July 2015. LNG projects will get free carbon permits covering at least half their carbon liability.

Deutsche Bank, in a note to clients on Friday, estimated that the Ichthys project would still face average annual carbon costs of $70 million for a $20/tonne carbon price and $105 million for a $30 price.

Riding the boom in gas export projects, the country’s oil and gas workers are the world’s highest paid, raking in more than $140,000 a year, or almost twice the world average of about

$76,000 for the sector, according to an industry poll last year.

Ratings agency Fitch gave a negative outlook for Australia’s oil and gas industry this week, and highlighted concerns that LNG projects in particular would not be able to come online on time and on budget.

“Announcements of project cost blowouts and schedule delays will only increase as more projects progress towards the back-end of their development period,” Sajal Kishore, a director in Fitch’s Energy & Utilities team, said. “Funding can become more difficult with increasing project execution risks, which may result in a deferral or cancellation of some proposed projects,” Fitch said.

Inpex Corp’s Ichthys project, in particular, may have a challenge meeting its large debt requirement after an increase of 70 percent in Ichthys’ price tag to $34 billion from its original $20 billion cost, banking sources say.

Banks affected by Europe’s debt crisis in particular are less keen to fund huge projects, although in this case Japanese banks and Australian banks are expected to step up and support financing, the sources said. The sudden rise of the United States as a gas exporter rather than an importer is one of the main threats to the viability of new Australian projects.

The United States, once expected to become a significant gas importer,

is now rapidly developing LNG export facilities to sell off some of the shale gas that has flooded the market in recent years.

US gas prices are under $3 per mmBtu, a fraction of what Asian buyers pay, with spot LNG prices around $15.75 per mmBtu in the region.

Asian customers are eagerly eyeing US projects and some have already made large commitments.

For instance, Cheniere Energy has filled nearly all its capacity for the first US export plant, after deals signed with BG Group, Gas Natural Fenosa and GAIL India, and has already proposed a second plant.

“You can see from the size of the buys how dead keen those buyers are to get their hands on US LNG. They are not dabbling, they want to grab it. It’s not good for the Australian projects,” said Noelle Leonard, a consultant for FACTS Global Energy in Perth.

But some experts said export plans could be derailed as some US lawmakers questioned the wisdom of increasing exports at the risk of higher domestic prices.

“I think it will be a gradual increase in supply out of the US rather than an absolute flood. It’s a pretty political issue there,” said Ben Wilson, an analyst with JP Morgan in Sydney.

“I just can’t see the magnitude of price discrepancy persisting indefinitely.” — Reuters

Halliburton rides oil boom to Q4 profit Mideast operating income holds steady

DAVOS: Participants have lunch on the opening day of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual meeting in Davos. Economic and political elites meeting this week at the Swiss resort of Davos will be asked to urgently find ways to reform a capitalist system that has been described as “outdated and crumbling.” —AFP

All 2011 US unemployment insurance benefits taxable WASHINGTON: The jobless rate is dipping, but millions of people are still out of work. And that could have implications when they file their income tax returns.

Collecting unemployment insurance benefits? All that you received in 2011 is taxed as income. Unless you requested that federal taxes be withheld, you could be in for a big surprise when you calculate taxes owed.

“People tend to believe unemployment benefits are still not taxable,” said Bob Meighan, a vice president at TurboTax. That was the case in 2009, for the first $2,400 in unemployment benefits. But that provision was not renewed

by Congress. If it’s any consolation, you may find yourself in a lower tax bracket because of reduced income, even counting the unemployment benefits. And you might also be eligible for tax breaks that you didn’t qualify for before.

“If you have major household changes, say you lost your job in 2011, we encourage people to take a close look at things like the earned income credit,” Internal Revenue Service spokesman Terry Lemons said. He said people should go ahead and file their taxes even if they don’t have the money to pay any taxes that are due. “There are more options there than many people realize,” he said, including installment agreements.

The aftermath of the Great Recession, which gripped the nation from 2007 to 2009, is still being felt across America.

Employers still worried about the state of the economy are hesitant to bring on new workers. And many of the more than 13 million unemployed people have stopped looking for jobs. For those who spent part or all of 2011 searching for work, there are tax breaks. “All of those job search expenses are deductible - the stationery, the long-distance phone calls, the hotels, anything you can relate to the job search,” said Jeff Schnepper, author of “How to Pay Zero Taxes” (McGraw-Hill, 2011). To qualify for this deduction, you have to be looking for a job in the same field or profession as your previous one. Expenses incurred trying to get your first job are not deductible.

“Until you start working, you don’t have a profession,” Schnepper said. You also have to itemize.

And the cost of preparing your resume, working with job search services, mileage and other job search expenses has to exceed 2 percent of your adjusted gross income if you are to benefit, according to Greg Rosica, tax partner with Ernst & Young. Make sure you save your receipts.

“You have to be able to substantiate,” he said. Those out of work may find the jobs

have dried up in their cities or towns.

“Many people are picking up and moving to where the jobs are,” Meighan said. If you land a job across town or across the country, you might be eligible to take a deduction for moving expenses. “It’s an above-the-line deduction, dollar for dollar a reduction in your income,” Schnepper said. In this case, unlike job-search expenses, you don’t have to itemize to take advantage of the deduction.

To qualify, there’s a distance test that has to be met: Your new job has to be at least 50 miles farther from your old house than your former job was. Also unlike the job-search deduction, you can deduct moving expenses even if this is your first job, provided your workplace is at least 50 miles from your former home. Same if you’re returning to work after being unemployed, the IRS says.

And there’s a requirement that you work at least 39 weeks in the new location over the first 12 months in the new area.

You can take the deduction even if you started your job late in the year and won’t meet the time test in 2011. But if you fail to meet it in 2012, you’ll either have to file an amended return or report the deduction as income when you do your 2012 taxes.

What’s deductible? The IRS says expenses that are “reasonable for the circumstances of your move.” That includes the cost of moving yourself and members of your household, as well as your household goods and personal effects. Shipping a car or the family pet is covered. If you drove to your new home during the first half of 2011, the mileage rate is 19 cents per mile. The rate for July through December is 23.5 cents a mile. Or, the IRS gives you the option of deducting the actual cost of gas and oil for the car. But if the car broke down on the move, you cannot deduct the cost of the repair. The cost of lodging on the way to your new home is deductible, but not the meals you eat on the road.

These days, “moving can be hard to do,” especially if you can’t sell your house in the depressed housing market, said Mark Steber, chief tax officer for Jackson Hewitt Tax Services. If you decide to commute to the new job instead of relocating, those commuting expenses are not deductible. To claim the moving expense deduction, file Form 3903 with your tax.

IRS publication 521 provides more information. If you went back to school to train for a new job, you may qualify for the American Opportunity Credit, which is partially refundable, or another education tax break. — Reuters

NEW YORK: Halliburton’s net income spiked 50 percent in the final three months of 2011 as one of the world’s biggest oilfield services companies shifted its focus from natural gas to oil, with a barrel of crude again trading near the triple digit mark yet again.

Energy companies are capitalizing on new technology to reach crude that was once prohibitively expensive to pump, especially in the United States, and Halliburton has benefited immensely.

The Houston company posted earnings of $906 million, or 98 cents per share, for the fourth quarter. That compares with $605 million, or 66 cents per share, for the same part of 2010. Excluding a $15 million charge for an “environmental-related matter,” Halliburton Co earned $1 per share in the quarter.

Revenue increased 36.9 percent to $7.06 billion. The boom in shale drilling across regions of North America boosted Halliburton’s 2011 earnings to $2.84 billion, or $3.08 per share, compared with $1.84 billion, or $2.02 per share, in 2010. Annual revenue increased 38.1 percent to $24.8 billion.

Hydraulic fracturing, still a relatively new technology, has allowed energy companies to get to oil in fields that had been left behind with most of the remaining resources trapped in rock. Halliburton and others use a mix of highly pressurized water and chemicals to break apart those shale formations and free the resources contained within.

That has reshaped the industry enormously in recent years and those changes continued yesterday with the announcement that oil and gas producer Apache Corp would buy privately held Cordillera Energy Partners III LLC in a deal valued at $2.85 billion. Apache wanted access to Cordillera’s approximately 254,000 net acres in the Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle, areas rich with potential for shale drilling. Those companies need Halliburton to service wells, increasingly oil

wells rather than natural gas. “In 2012, we expect revenue growth in excess of rig count growth in both the Eastern and Western Hemispheres,” said CEO Dave Lesar.

“We are proactively moving equipment from dry natural gas to liquids plays in North America in response to recent rig moves. We believe strongly that we will not experience a

dropped by 13 percent. Halliburton also saw an increase in drilling in Gulf of Mexico during the fourth quarter. Operating income also grew in Latin America, while falling in Europe and North Africa and holding steady in the Middle East.

Overall, the company’s completion and production business increased profits 58 per-

DALLAS: Halliburton human resource associates Heather Hopkins (left) and Sonja Franks (center rear) meet with attendees at a National Career Fairs job fair, in Dallas. Halliburton reported that its net income jumped nearly 50 percent in the final three months of 2011 as rising oil prices sparked new drilling projects. —AP collapse of margins in North America and, as a result, we expect revenue and operating income will increase in 2012 in North America.”

Oil prices increased more than 10 percent in the fourth quarter while natural gas prices

cent while its drilling and evaluation business increased profits by 35.6 percent.

Schlumberger Ltd, another major oil services firm, reported a 36 percent jump in fourthquarter profits last week. Halliburton shares fell 35 cents to $35.85 in premarket trading. — AP

Bank of Spain predicts contraction of 1.5%

KARACHI: Pakistani stockbrokers gather under an index board during a trading session at the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) in Karachi yesterday. The benchmark KSE-100 index was 12007.54, with increase of 232.86 points in the morning session. — AFP

Myanmar’s Dawei mega-project seeks partners BANGKOK: The clay model of Myanmar’s ambitious Dawei deep-sea port and special economic zone sprawls across a long table on the 43rd floor of the headquarters of Italian-Thai Development Pcl. Glossy posters hail it as the “new global gateway of Indo-China”.

But moving ahead with the first phase of the project is proving slow, despite the dramatic reforms sweeping Myanmar and the gradual lifting in Western sanctions as the former British colony emerges from half a century of isolation-a prospect underlined yesterday by plans by the European Union to ease some punitive measures. In a rare interview, a senior executive at Italian-

Thai Development outlined yesterday the company’s far-reaching plans for a project that would transform the wild scrubland of southern Myanmar into Southeast Asia’s largest industrial complex.

In a country where a third of its 60 million people live on less than one US dollar a day, Dawei is striking in its ambition. Superhighways, steel mills, power plants, shipyards, refineries, pulp and paper mills and a petrochemical complex are part of the $50 billion project, as are two golf courses and a holiday resort-all strategically nestled between rising powers India, China and Southeast Asia with a port on the Andaman Sea. — Reuters

MADRID: Spain’s central bank yesterday forecast that the country, which is struggling to slash its deficit and debt, will fall back into recession this year with a contraction of 1.5 percent.

The Bank of Spain said however it expects Spain’s economy to make a modest rebound in 2013 with growth in gross domestic product (GDP) of 0.2 percent.

It added that it estimates the economy to have grown by 0.7 percent in 2011.

“In 2011 the modest recovery which the Spanish economy began a year earlier weakened as the eurozone sovereign debt crisis extended to a greater number of countries and financial market tensions strengthened,” it said in a report.

The return to recession will make it harder for Spain, the euro-zone’s fourth largest economy, to meet its goal of slashing the public deficit to 4.4 percent of output. Spain’s new government announced shortly after it was sworn in last month that the public deficit last year would come in at around 8.0 percent of GDP, way above the 6.0-percent target agreed with Brussels by the previous Socialist government.

It has announced spending cuts of 8.9 billion euros ($11.5 billion), and tax increases to bring in 6.3 billion euros, to reduce the deficit and make sure the country does not get dragged into the debt crisis mire that has already forced Greece, Ireland and Portugal to seek financial bailouts.

Spain emerged only at the start of 2010 from an 18month recession, triggered by the global financial crisis and a property bubble collapse, which led the jobless rate to balloon to 21.5 percent, the highest level in the industrial world. — AFP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

business

KUWAIT: CEO Nayef Al-Awadhi and Executive Vice President for Business Development and Marketing Salwa Malhas address a press conference (right) during the inauguration of Mazaya Towers. Photographs show top officials during the opening ceremony. — Photos by Joseph Shagra

Mazaya Towers open for business ‘Office at Reach’ project kicks off KUWAIT: Al-Mazaya Holding is offering new office spaces for rent at its Mazaya Towers in Kuwait Business Town at the heart of Kuwait City, the company announced in a press statement yesterday.

During a ceremony held yesterday to inaugurate the Mazaya Towers, Al-Mazaya Holding announced

the launch of a media campaign for its ‘Office at Reach’ project which offers tenants the opportunity to shape the offices they rent in any way they desire.

“Extensive studies carried out by Al-Mazaya Holding revealed that Kuwait lacks buildings for business offices that cover fields such as the medical, com-

mercial, and educational”, said CEO Nayef Al-Awadhi in a speech he made during the inauguration.

Meanwhile, Executive Vice President - Business Development and Marketing Salwa Malhas spoke about the characteristics of the new project which she said provides a variety of designs and a selection of

spaces ranging from 180m≤ to 369m≤, with stylish and harmonious interior designs reflecting the personality of the tenant. Malhas also announced that AlMazaya Holding obtained a license to build a multistory parking lot near the Mazaya Towers, indicating that construction will start soon.

Bahrain Air launches inaugural offer KUWAIT: Bahrain Air has launched an inaugural offer on its maiden flight of 26th January 2012 for Beirut in Kuwait market with KD12 for one-way and KD 15 for return, exclusive of all taxes - as part of the airline’s promotion strategy to have direct operations from Kuwait to Beirut. Bahrain Air will operate 4 flights a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Flights will depart from Bahrain in the morning at 8.35 a.m. and return in the evening from Kuwait to Bahrain at 18.55 p.m. These times are designed to provide convenience to passengers wishing to maximize their time in Kuwait or for business traffic requiring to return the same day. Bahrain Air’s flights will continue onwards from Kuwait to Beirut and from Beirut to Kuwait.

As per Richard Nuttall CEO Bahrain Air, “We are delighted to be returning to Kuwait. Kuwait is an important destination in its own right and at the same time will also support our network beyond Bahrain with convenient connections especially to the Indian subcontinent and Khartoum. Further we will be adding non-stop flights between Kuwait and Beirut strengthening our presence and product in both markets.”

Bahrain Air Marketing Manager, Naeem Mahamoor, said “Bahrain Air aircraft will be refitted with a new business class seat configuration and will introduce state of the art on board entertainment system for business/premium class passengers. We are also revisiting our menu on the different sectors

in providing the best option to our valued passengers, Bahrain Air being a hybrid airline; we will add value to our business/premium class segment in making it attractive through price and service to the business community in the region to pick us as their first choice and favorite airline”.

Bahrain Air has always offered better prices and the difference with it is that they will fly direct to most of the destinations for the same price as other airlines that fly with a stop-over. While Beirut airport’s traffic is rapidly growing, Bahrain Air is proving that travelers in Kuwait are just as willing to use low-cost airlines as in the other part of the world.

Bahrain Air is committed to focus on offering a well-priced quality product in markets for which there is strong demand and consequently it is achieving very high load factors.

“We have indentified Beirut as a primarily business and touristic destination and now have the opportunity to bring this city in to our fold” said Santosh, Country Manager of Bahrain Air for Kuwait.

“By keeping things simple, we are providing an easier and more affordable travel experience to passengers traveling on Bahrain Air,” Santosh added.

Bahrain Air appointed Caesars International Travel Company as its General Sales Agent in Kuwait.

For booking and further details, contact Bahrain Air office, 22261027/ 22261028/ 22261028 or your nearest travel agent. As the seats are limited towards this offer, the early bird will get the best deal.

Al Qurain holds first Bosch power meet for dealers, customers KUWAIT: Al Qurain Automotive Trading Company, the official Bosch agent for Kuwait, organized the first annual Bosch Power Meet alongside more than 120 Bosch dealers in Kuwait on January 20, 2012.

Bosch Power Meet brought together some 175 representatives from Kuwait’s most respected power tool reselling companies to support their continued success and showcase the latest products through interactive activities.

The event included an awards ceremony that honored the dealers for their long-term commitment to the Bosch brand and gave recognition to outstanding performers with accolades and giveaways.

“Al Qurain and our dealers share a strong bond based on support, high industry standards and the best business practices that dates back to the 1950’s.

Half a century later we are taking this partnership a step further with the Bosch Power Meet event,” said Ahmed AlMutawa, Chairman & Managing Director of Abdulaziz Al-Ali Al-Mutawa Group of Companies.

“Bosch’s 125 year old philosophy is based on the passion to innovate and

manufacture world-class power tools that reflect values of quality, performance, dependability and safety. Our valued partners are an integral part of our success and today we offer our deepest appreciation and support for an even brighter future,” said SudhirShenoy Bosch Kuwait Brand Manager.

Participants were able to explore Bosch’s latest range of power tools in a unique workshop environment. The aim, according to Ravindra Shete, Senior

Manager of Bosch Power Tools, is to “educate, reward and empower dealers with the best tools in the market”.

Participants at the Bosch Power Meet Workshop were impressed with the superior performance and the level of innovation that distinguish Bosch power tools from those offered by competing manufacturers.

Bosch’s Middle East delegation was represented by Paul Chamoun, Regional Sales Director, Ragish, Regional Service

Joyalukkas opens largest jewelry showroom in Riyadh

Gulf Air finalist in FlightStats on-time performance awards MANAMA: Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, has been selected as a finalist in the third annual FlightStats On-time Performance Service Awards.

Gulf Air Chief Executive Officer, Samer Majali said, “making it into the top five in this award is a true achievement and a testament to the sustained efforts of the entire Gulf Air team both in the air and on the ground to ensuring the best possible flight experience and operations excellence for our passengers.”

“On-time performance is integral to our success and to ensuring a positive experience for all our passengers - a reflection of Gulf Air’s commitment to meet and surpass customer expectations. 2011 saw our average On Time Performance at 75%, well above the industry standard, with our under 15 minute On Time Performance at 88%. We see this as a marker of our continued achievements and positive differentiation within the industry,” he concluded.

FlightStats, the industry leader in

flight information services, holds the OPS Awards in recognition of airlines that deliver the highest percentage of flights to their arrival gates within 15 minutes of the scheduled arrival time.

Finalists in the FlightStats OnTime Performance Service Awards among major international airlines are: • Gulf Air Company (GF) • ANA All Nippon Airways (NH) • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL) • JAL Japan Airlines International (JL) • SAS Scandinavian Airlines System (SK) The annual FlightStats Awards are well respected among the aviation industry as recognition of airline and airport achievements and operational strength. FlightStats has been tracking on-time performance since 2004, tracking over 150,000 flights per day (nearly 80% of all scheduled passenger flights globally). The winners will be announced on January 23.

RIYADH: The world’s favorite jewelry retailer Joyalukkas has opened their second jewelry showroom in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This showroom the largest jewelry showroom in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is located in the Riyadh Avenue Mall within Lulu Hypermarket and features a wide range of jewellery collections and designs that has won admiration and appreciation from millions of people around the world.

The showroom was inaugurated by popular Bollywood actor and the Joyalukkas Brand Ambassador, R Madhavan, in the presence of dignitaries and senior personnel of Joyalukkas. ‘I am excited to be here, every Joyalukkas opening has been special for me and the response from jewelry lovers for Joyalukkas makes me feel doubly proud. I have been a part of Joyalukkas for over 2 years now and I feel incredibly proud to be associated with this global jewelry retail chain,” said R Madhavan.

The large format spacious state-of-the-art showroom has been built as per the global standards of the Joyalukkas jewelry retail chain and features exquisite contemporary, international and ethnic collections popular and sought after by millions around the world. The showroom staff has been specially trained in sales & customer service aspects to ensure the Joyalukkas promise of choice, quality, world class service, value and more importantly a delightful experience in jewelry shopping.

Joyalukkas caters to over 10 million loyal customers around the world hence strongly understands

the needs and aspirations of all types of jewelry buyers. Today’s women shop for jewelry at various occasions, for different needs and even on an impulse.

“It’s my pleasure to open our second showroom in Riyadh, which also will be the largest jewelry showroom in KSA. We are looking forward to delight the residents of Riyadh with our fantastic collections of jewelry in gold, diamond, platinum, precious stone and pearls. Our collections have been accepted internationally by different nationalities and we are hoping to meet all the dreams and expectations of jewelry lovers in Riyadh with our unique offering.” said Joy Alukkas, Chairman, Joyalukkas Group.

Joyalukkas is planning a strong presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the near future. The Joyalukkas strategy team is closely working with the Group Chairman, Joy Alukkas and John Paul Joy Alukkas to formalize its retail strategy for KSA. The Joyalukkas, Riyadh

Avenue Mall showroom features exclusive and popular branded collections in gold, diamonds, precious stones, platinum and pearl like Eleganza, Entice, Diroyale, Ratna, Li’l Joy, Aamira, BakiAmore, Ebru, Mermaid, Teens &Twenties, Zenina, Florentina, Akshaya, Masaaki Pearls, DiRoyale, Mist, Ovio, Spring, Trestelle, Magnus, Perfekt and more. ‘Trust’ is key within jewelry buyers and Joyalukkas takes all the necessary steps to keep the customers assured at all times.

Joyalukkas offers 100% buy back and exchange on most of the jewelry sold through its showrooms globally.

“We are currently on a rapid expansion plan across the world with new showrooms set to open in many parts of India and the middle-east, in addition to this we are also venturing into Singapore shortly. With each expansion we move closer to our chairman’s vision of ‘ornamenting the world,” said John Paul Alukkas, Executive Director, Joyalukkas Group.

Manager and Farid Gebara, Regional Brand Manager.

Joseph, Asst Manager of Bosch Power Tools Kuwait thanked participants for their presence and active participation in the Bosch Power Meet. Bosch is a leading multinational engineering and electronics company headquartered in Gerlingen, Germany. Bosch is one of the largest manufacturers of portable power tools worldwide for the building trade, industry, and individuals. The company was founded by Robert Bosch in Stuttgart in 1886.

Bosch has more than 350 subsidiaries across over 60 countries and its products are sold in around 150 countries. Bosch’s reputation for innovation was reinforced when in 2009 it was reported that it was the leader in terms of numbers of patents at the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (GPTO) with 3,213 patents.

Al-Qurain Automotive Company is the official Bosch agent in Kuwait, and a subsidiary of Abdulaziz Al-Ali Al-Mutawa Group of Companies - established in the early 1950’s to provide the local market with high quality industrial brand names, including Bosch automotive spare-parts.

Burgan Bank announces names of winners of Yawmi Account KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced yesterday the names of the lucky winners of its Yawmi account draw, each taking home a prize of KD 5,000.

The lucky winners for the five daily draws took home a cash-prize of KD 5000 each, and they are: 1.

Ahmed Khalifa Rashed Alshohomi 2.

Anfal Jassem Ahmad Alamer 3.

Athari Kazem Mohammed Alsaleh 4.

Munira Issa Ahmed Al-Ajeel 5.

Zeyad Sulaiman Al-Yaseen The newly re-launched Yawmi Account is better, easier and faster than any day before. With its new and enhanced features, the Yawmi Account has become more convenient, easier, and faster for customers to benefit from. Now, customers will be eligible to enter the draw after 48 hours only from opening the account. Customers are also required to deposit KD 100 or equivalent only to enter the daily draw, and the coupon value to enter the draw stands at KD 10.

The newly designed Yawmi account has been launched to provide a highly innovative offering along with a higher frequency and incentive of winning for everyone. Today, the Yawmi account is a well understood product, where its popularity can be seen from the number of increasing account holders.

Burgan Bank encourages everyone to open a Yawmi account and/or increase their deposit to maximize their chances to becoming a daily winner. The more customers deposit, the higher the chances they receive of winning the draw.

Opening a Yawmi account is simple, customers are urged to visit their nearest Burgan Bank branch and receive all the details, or simply call the bank’s Call Center at 1804080 where customer service representatives will be delighted to assist with any questions on the Yawmi account or any of the bank’s products and services. Customers can also log on to Burgan Bank’s www.burgan.com for further information.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

TECHNOLOGY

Tracking microclimates could help feed the world JERUSALEM: Scientists in Israel have developed a way of using satellite images to help farmers detect small-scale changes in climate and improve their harvests, a method that could bolster food supplies for an increasingly hungry world population. Rather than analyse the weather and topography of large swathes of land, the new system divides fields into smaller microclimates that guide farmers on the best way to work each individual plot.

It tells them when it is best to plant seeds, when to spray pesticides and even which crop is most suitable for each square-kilometre field, said Uri Dayan, a climatologist from Hebrew University

in Jerusalem. Since the method was published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society in September, Dayan and co-developer Itamar Lensky have been working to develop it into a global interface that will help farmers on any continent.

The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has said that global food output must increase by 70 percent by 2050 to meet the needs of an expected 9.1 billion people. Crops are very sensitive to their environment and even the slightest changes can ruin a harvest. Factors like pests, pathogens and weeds cause the loss of more than 40 percent of the world’s food supply, the FAO says.

Even two adjacent fields that appear identical could contain individual microclimates which require separate attention to maximize production, Dayan said.

Lensky, who heads the remote sensing laboratory at Bar Ilan University near Tel Aviv, said their system uses real-time thermal images made available from NASA and then analyses the surface temperature of each plot at a fine scale.

“Once we understand how nature works, we pack it into an algorithm, and the results of this algorithm we can give to the farmers,” he said.

In one application, their system mapped a patch of land that it forecast would be attacked - and

when - by the harmful heliothis, a moth that causes billions of dollars of damage to global agriculture each year. This knowledge allows a more effective use of pesticides. Once the scientists find a partner for development, a global interface to guide farmers could be up and running in a couple of years.

The system will improve as satellite pictures are taken with higher resolution, they said.

Gideon Yisrael, who has worked the fields of central Israel for 40 years, called the development a game-changer. “It will provide farmers with a good measurement for making good decisions and hopefully bring them more success and more harvest,” he said. — Reuters

Megaupload boss: I’m innocent Rival website stops file sharing service

MUMBAI: In this file picture taken on September 18, 2008 Jim Balsillie, co-chief executive officer of Canada’s Reasearch In Motion (RIM) - poses with a huge replica of a Blackberry Bold phone during the launch in Mumbai. Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, the co-chief executives of Research In Motion, resigned yesterday following months of investor pressure for a change at the helm of the struggling BlackBerry maker. — AFP

RIM to focus more on consumer market MONTREAL: Research In Motion’s new chief executive Thorsten Heins said yesterday he plans to focus more on the consumer market but that a “drastic change” is not necessary at the struggling BlackBerry maker.

Heins, who took over Sunday from co-CEOs Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie, also said he had no plans to split up the company, which has been losing market share to Apple’s iPhone and handsets powered by Google’s Android platform.

“We have fantastic devices and a fantastic ecosystem that we’re building,” Heins said in a conference call with financial analysts. “I want to build on that. “I will not in any way split this up or separate this into different businesses,” said the 54-year-old Heins, who joined RIM in December 2007 from German industrial giant Siemens, where he was chief technology officer.

Heins said he wants RIM to “focus more on consumer, on consumer marketing” and he has received “the support from the board in going down that path.” “But this is not a seismic change,” he said. “This is scaling the company further and we will continue to scale this company up.

“I don’t think that there is some drastic change needed,” he said. “We are evolving. We’re evolving our strategy.” RIM has enjoyed most of its success with business customers but has lagged behind Apple and Android when it comes to developing handsets for consumers. “(In) the US we were very, very successful coming from the core enterprise business and in the public opinion this is still where we’re skewed to,” Heins said. “So one process we really will put a lot of energy and effort in is really our market communication.

“We need to be more marketing-driven,” he said. “We need to be more consumer oriented because this is where a lot of our growth is coming from. That is essential in the US.” Heins said he would make recruiting a new chief marketing officer a priority. “I want this ASAP, that’s for sure,” he said.

The new CEO also said he would be prepared to license the new BlackBerry 10 operating system. “I’m absolutely confident that BlackBerry 10 will prove itself as a platform,” he said. “If there (are) requests coming towards Research In Motion to talk about licensing that platform to other companies, I will entertain those discussions.

“I will listen. I will assess the business opportunity for RIM and if it makes sense strategically and tactically to go down that path, then I will make the decision together with the board,” he said.

Co-CEOs Lazaridis and Balsillie resigned Sunday following months of investor pressure for a change at the helm of RIM. RIM shares have lost nearly three-quarters of their value over the past year and the company has been the subject of persistent takeover speculation.

The management shakeup follows a series of setbacks for RIM including a costly delay in the launch of BlackBerry 10, the commercial failure of the PlayBook tablet computer and an embarrassing email outage.

Barbara Stymiest, 55, was named chairman of the board, a post previously also held jointly by Balsillie and Lazaridis, who founded RIM in 1984.

Stymiest, who has been on the RIM board since 2007, has held senior positions at the Royal Bank of Canada and was chief executive of TSX Group Inc., operator of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

While Lazaridis and Balsillie are handing over day-today control they are not stepping away entirely.

Lazaridis, 50, was named vice chairman of its board and chairman of a new innovation committee, offering “strategic counsel” and promoting the BlackBerry brand worldwide. Balsillie, also 50, will remain a member of the board of directors. — AFP

AUCKLAND: The founder of file-sharing website Megaupload was ordered to be held in custody by a New Zealand court yesterday, as he denied charges of internet piracy and money laundering and said authorities were trying to portray the blackest picture of him.

Prosecutor Anne Toohey argued at a bail hearing that Kim Dotcom, a German national also known as Kim Schmitz, was a flight risk “at the extreme end of the scale” because it was believed he had access to funds, had multiple identities and had a history of fleeing criminal charges. “The FBI believes the sums located are unlikely to represent all the overseas bank accounts owned by Mr Dotcom,” she said.

But Dotcom’s lawyer said he posed no threat of absconding or restarting his businesses, arguing that his client had cooperated fully, his passports had been seized and his funds frozen, and also that he had a distinctive appearance.

“He is not the sort of person who will pass unnoticed through our customs and immigration lines and controls,” said defence lawyer Paul Davison of the former hacker, reportedly 2 metres (6ft 6ins) tall and weighing more than 130 kg (285 lbs).

Judge David McNaughton said the bail application was too complicated for an immediate ruling, adding he would issue a written decision no later than Wednesday.

“Given the breadth of issues covered in this bail application and the seriousness of the issues, I am going to reserve my decision,” the judge said.

US authorities want to extradite Dotcom on charges he masterminded a scheme that made more than $175 million in a few short years by copying and distributing music, movies and other copyrighted content without authorisation. Megaupload’s

lawyer has said the company simply offered online storage.

Prosecutor Toohey said two other men sought on global warrants for involvement in Megaupload had been arrested in Europe.

The shockwaves of the case appeared to be spreading among rival websites offering lucrative file-sharing. FileSonic, a website providing online data storage, said in a statement on its website that it had halted its file-sharing services.

“All sharing functionality of FileSonic is now disabled. Our service can only be used to upload and retrieve files that you have uploaded personally,” it said. Dotcom, 38, and three others, were arrested on Friday after New Zealand police raided his country estate at the request of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. Police cut Dotcom out of a safe room he had barricaded himself in, because, according to his layer, he was frightened and panicked.

Presenting the case for flight risk, the prosecutor said 45 credit cards in three wallets were found in the mansion under Dotcom’s various names, while three passports were also found. But his defence lawyer said: “My client collects them (credit cards), most of them are out of date.”

Dotcom smiled and waved at around 20 supporters who filled the courtroom and spoke to them after the judge’s decision.

“Hey guys thanks for turning up, I appreciate it,” he said, wishing a female supporter a “happy birthday”. Defence lawyer Davison said Dotcom was “realistic about what is happening”.

“He would obviously prefer to be at large. He doesn’t want to be there any longer than he absolutely has to be,” he told reporters outside the court.

Media reported that Dotcom ordered

around NZ$4 million ($3.2 million) of renovations to the sprawling mansion that he leased near Auckland, with its manicured lawns, fountains, pools, palm-lined paths and extensive security.

The case is being heard as the debate over online piracy reaches fever pitch in Washington, where Congress is trying to craft tougher legislation.

Lawmakers stopped anti-piracy legislation on Friday, postponing a critical vote in a victory for Internet companies that staged a mass online protest against the fast-moving bills.

The movie and music industries want Congress to crack down on Internet piracy and content theft, but major Internet companies such as Google and Facebook have complained that current drafts of the legislation would lead to censorship.

Critics of the U.S. Stop Online Piracy Act, or SOPA, and Protect IP Act (PIPA), quickly showed their opposition to the shutdown of Megaupload.com, with hackers attacking the public websites of the Justice Department, the world’s largest music company Universal Music, and the two big trade groups that represent the music and film industries.

Dotcom’s New Zealand lawyer Davison said in court that Megaupload’s business was being misrepresented and authorities were being aggressive to add drama to the case.

“His business did not reproduce or copy material as alleged,” he told the court, adding that copyright holders had been given access to Megaupload to identify improper posting of material. He likened the site to the popular YouTube video site, where people “promoted their creativity”.

In New Zealand, questions are being asked about how Dotcom, who moved to

the country in 2010, could be given permanent residency under a business investor scheme despite criminal convictions for insider trading.

A legal expert said extradition arrangements between New Zealand and the United States were reasonably straightforward and standard, but there were some important factors.

“The offence for which extradition is sought must be an offence in the jurisdictions of both states,” said Otago University law professor Kevin Dawkins, adding that an accused must be tried on the offence for which they are extradited.

New details emerged about Dotcom’s lavish lifestyle and tastes, with reports that he had a heated lap pool built just off the master ensuite, with underwater speakers, imported spring water and a custom ladder worth around NZ$15,000.

“It’s insane, and it gets more insane inside. When we were there we called it ‘extreme home makeover, millionaire edition’,” a source close to the teams that did renovation work the New Zealand Herald.

A film posted on the Internet shows Dotcom, surrounded by topless women and men spraying champagne on board a superyacht during a “crazy weekend” in Monaco reported to have cost $10 million.

“Fast cars, hot girls, superyachts and amazing parties. Decadence rules,” said the commentary accompanying the so-called fun documentary, which Dotcom dedicated to “all my fans”.

The FBI estimates that Dotcom personally made around $115,000 a day during 2010 from his empire. The list of property to be seized, includes nearly 20 luxury cars, one of them a pink Cadillac, works of art, and NZ$10 million invested in local finance companies. — Reuters

Korean research, a first step toward Dr Smartphone?

SEOUL: Tired of long waits at the hospital for medical tests? If Korean researchers have their way, your smartphone could one day eliminate that-and perhaps even tell you that you have cancer.

A team of scientists at Korea Advanced Institute of Science of Technology (KAIST) said in a paper published in Angewandte Chemie, a German science journal, that touch screen technology can be used to detect biomolecular matter, much as is done in medical tests.

“It began from the idea that touch screens work by recognizing the electronic signs from the touch of the finger, and so the presence of specific proteins and DNA should be recognizable as well,” said Hyun-gyu Park, who with Byong-yeon Won led the study.

The touch screens on smartphones, PDAs or other electronic devices work by sensing the electronic charges from the user’s body on the screen. Biochemicals such as proteins and DNA molecules also carry specific electronic charges.

According to KAIST, the team’s experiments showed that touch screens can recognize the existence and the concentration of DNA molecules placed on them, a first step towards one day being able to use the screens to carry out medical tests.

“We have confirmed that (touch screens) are able to recognize DNA molecules with nearly 100 percent accuracy just as large, conventional medical equipment can and we believe equal results are possible for proteins,” Park told Reuters TV. “There are proteins known in the medical world like the ones used to diagnose liver cancer, and we would be able to see the liver condition of the patient.”

The research team added that it is currently developing a type of film with reactive materials that can identify specific biochemicals, hoping this will allow the touch screens to also recognize different biomolecular materials.

But confirming that the touch screen can recognize the biomolecular materials, though key, is only the first step.

S i n c e nobody would put blood or urine on a touch screen, the sample would be placed on a strip, which would then be fed into the phone or a module attached to the phone through what Park called an “entrance point.”

“The location and concentration of the sample would be recognized the same way the touch of the finger is recognized,” he added. There are no details yet on a prospective timetable for making the phone a diagnostic tool, however. — Reuters

Tablet, e-book ownership soar SAN FRANCISCO: Tablets and ereaders were a popular gift over the holidays, so much so that the number of people who own them nearly doubled bet ween midDecember and Januar y, a new study finds.

A report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project set to be released Monday found that 29 percent of Americans owned at least one tablet or e-reader as of the beginning of this month. That’s up from 18 percent who said the same in December.

The iPad from Apple Inc. is perhaps the best-known example of these gadgets, along with Amazon.com’s various K indle devices and the Nook from Barnes and Noble. The iPad put tablets on the map and the cheaper Kindle Fire and Nook devices helped get them in the hands of more people.

The percentage of people who own a tablet jumped to 19 from 10

between mid-December and early January. E-book reader ownership also rose to 19 percent from 10 percent of US adults. Men and women were equally likely to own tablets, and the likelihood of tablet ownership was higher for people with higher household incomes, the report found. Those with higher levels of education were also more likely to own tablets than those who completed fewer years of school.

E-readers, meanwhile, were slightly more common among women. The figures are from ongoing sur veys conduc ted by Pew about tablet and e-reader ownership. They were conduc ted bet ween November 2011 and January 2012. The first, pre-holiday sur vey was conduc ted among 2,986 Americans 16 and older. Two post-holiday sur veys were conducted among about 2,000 adults in January. — AP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

H E A LT H & S C I E NC E

Romania’s health system needs intensive care BUCHAREST: Underfunded and shortstaffed, Romania’s health system is in need of intensive care, analysts say, warning that recent mass street protests should not derail a drive for reform. A draft law aimed at giving private operators a central role in the sector earlier this month sparked outspoken criticism from physicians and patients, who feared that health care would become unaffordable to average Romanians.

The bill also drove the founder of the emergency medical services unit to quit, but the widely-respected Raed Arafat was later reinstated and the bill withdrawn after tens of thousands of Romanians had protested in the streets.

But experts stress that the system cannot survive unless it is overhauled.

“Steps must be taken to reduce the hospitals’ payment arrears, and improve

access to and the quality of health care,” Richard Florescu, human development director at the World Bank’s office in Bucharest, told AFP. Romania’s centre-right government last year pledged to curb its public deficit in exchange for a back-up agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the European Union. The deal included measures to streamline health expenses by closing dozens of derelict, poorlyequipped hospitals. In 2011, funds earmarked for health care stood at 5.5 billion euros, four times more than in 2005.

But the figure accounted for only four percent of the Balkan country’s gross domestic product, a far cry from France’s 11.0 percent or the OECD average of 9.0 percent. Analysts however warn that much of the funding has been wasted,

pointing to corruption and mismanagement. The small number of contibutors, barely 6.7 million for a total population of 21.5 million, is another key issue.

“No matter how big it may be, the health-care budget will never be enough because a lot of the money gets siphoned off,” said Vasile Barbu, the head of the Patients’ Protection Association.

He blamed the corruption on the current state-controlled health insurance system, which enables firms held by politically powerful cronies to get most of the public procurement contracts.

Under the scrapped reform bill, private insurers were to have replaced the state-owned ones, a move meant to uproot corruption. However, analysts warn that in the absence of a detailed roadmap and strong checks this will not lead to any improvement.

But corruption takes more than one form in Romania, where slipping money into the doctors’ and the nurses’ pockets is the rule. “The first thing I did after being admitted to hospital for bladder surgery was to inquire about the surgeon’s and the anaesthetist’s ‘fares’,” said Monica Petre, 79, a Bucharest retired engineer. Daily Evenimentul Zilei last week published a “fare guidebook” for patients, listing bribes of up to 500 euros for a Caesarian section and 3,000 euros for brain surgery.

A study financed by the World Bank showed that informal payments in Romania’s health care amount to roughly 300 million euros a year.

Analysts warn that as long as physicians’ wages remain around 500 euros a month, or a tenth of their western peers, graft will continue to flourish while med-

ical staff will emigrate to western countries. “If we solve the sector’s major problems, the issue of doctors’ pay will be resolved too,” Dan Perieteanu, vice-president of the physicians’ union, told AFP. Despite health officials’ efforts to encourage preventive care, many Romanians seem to trust hospital medics more than general practitioners and tend to go straight to emergency units when they fall ill. Patients also complain of an “inhumane system”, where a lack of respect and empathy is more of an issue than outdated equipment and drug shortages. “There are dedicated doctors, but patients are often treated in a deplorable way, from the way medical staff address them to the care, or lack of, they get,” Ana, a 31-yearold Bucharest philologist who suffers from a serious illness, said. — AFP

Tiny baby leaves LA hospital amid fanfare ‘Melinda made enough progress to go home’

TAIPEI: In this photo taken on Jan 18, 2012, Austin Tseng, 32, watches her doctor perform ultrasound imaging on her “dragon baby” at the Adventist Hospital in Taipei, Taiwan. Chinese world-wide believe that babies born in the auspicious Year of the Dragon in the 12-year Zodiac cycle are gifted with prodigious quantities of luck and strength. The first day of the Chinese Lunar New Year was yesterday. — AP

Hong Kong braces for influx of ‘Dragon Babies’ HONG KONG: As hundreds of millions of Chinese counted down to the Year of the Dragon, the clock was also ticking for thousands of mainland women scrambling to deliver “lucky” babies in Hong Kong, putting pressure on medical facilities and stoking protests in the city.

Lured by residency rights and in a bid to avoid China’s one-child policy, Hong Kong has seen a surge in the number of mainland women coming to give birth, prompting authorities to cap the number of births permitted in the former British colony.

With the New Year being rung in, parents across China aspire to produce “Dragon Babies” in the hope that the symbol, long associated with emperors, power and intelligence, will bring wealth and luck. Doctors have warned some women may even turn to illegal means to dodge the cap.

Hong Kong agreed last June to cap at 34,000 the number of non-residents allowed to give birth in the city. That compares to 40,000 mainland women who gave birth in Hong Kong in 2010, when total births amounted to more than 88,000.

Newspapers have reported cases of mainland women illegally crossing the border and skirting the rules by going straight to emergency rooms in public hospitals to deliver their babies.

“At that point the hospital can’t reject them,” said Jianfa Shen, Geography and Resource Management professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. As a special administrative region within China, Hong Kong largely runs its own affairs under the “one country, two systems formula”. Hong Kong also has its own currency and legal sys-

tem-the “one child” rule does not apply.

There were 1,656 cases of non-local mothers making emergency room deliveries last year, just over twice the 2010 figure, the Hospital Authority has said. Dragon years have generated baby booms before, so hospitals are sure to feel the heat as forecasters predict a healthy birth rate for the rest of the year.

Up to 1,000 demonstrators-pregnant women, mothers pushing strollers and hospital workers-have taken to the streets to protest against the squeeze on maternity wards. Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Donald Tsang, has raised the issue with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

“As long as the mainland has restrictions on multiple births, and as long as Hong Kong has a good reputation for maternity care, then I think there will still be an interest (in giving birth in Hong Kong),” said John BaconShone, director of the University of Hong Kong Social Sciences Research Centre.

The number of maternity bookings at Prince of Wales, a public hospital, has climbed 15 percent for the first six months of this year compared to the same period in 2011, said T.H. Cheung, the hospital’s head of obstetrics and gynaecology.

Private and public hospitals are adding facilities and adjusting fees in the face of rising numbers, with some wards renovating to accommodate more patients in the coming year. Some private hospitals have raised prices for mainland mothers to as high as HK$58,000 ($7,500) for a natural birth in a standard room of four to 14 beds, while Hong Kong charges non-residents HK$39,000 for a pre-booking at a public hospital. — Reuters

Fitting fitness inside the cubicle NEW YORK: Whether your office is in the business district or on the dining room table, sitting immobile for hours in front of a computer screen is at odds with the fit body.

So fitness experts and entrepreneurs are thinking outside the box to transform the cubicle from sedentary prison to multitasking work and workout space. “We’ve made Americans fat by putting them in cubicles,” said Steve Bordley, CEO of TrekDesk. His solution is a workstation designed to fit over a treadmill. “There’s an obesity issue in every developed country, including China. Anywhere they’re sitting,” said Bordley, from his treadmill desk during the telephone interview. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Bordley said he developed TrekDesk after a leg injury in 2008 crimped his active lifestyle.

“I couldn’t run anymore so I started experimenting with a treadmill,” said Bordley. “An epiphany occurred: Walking is a pretty powerful exercise. My back problems went away, I lost 26 pounds (11.8 kgs) and I slept great.”

The daily goal for healthy adults in a walking program is 10,000 steps, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Most sedentary adults walk less than 5,000.

Multitasking work and workout is in our genes, according to Bordley, who said he’s already sold thousands of his product around the world.

“We’ve evolved over millions of years to be moving through the wilderness while hunting game. Our body was designed around that movement,” he said. “It’s the people who sit all day who have to fight lethargy.”

When it comes to doing her paperwork, Minneapolis-based personal trainer and group fitness instructor Chris Freytag prefers to stand.

“I’m totally in love with my standing workstation,” she said. “The treadmill desk is a great concept, but it’s large. I would probably put mine in my basement and I’m not going to work in the basement.”

As chair of the Board of Directors for the American Council on Exercise (ACE), Freytag is acutely aware of the need to move, even while forced to spend a lot of time at her desk. For her the beauty of the standing workstation lies in its mobility.

“You can pull it into the family room or wheel it around the house,” she said. “It’s userfriendly and accessible and it literally changed my life.” She said just standing keeps her motivated and burns an extra calorie a minute. For those on a tight budget, Dr. Cedric Bryant, ACE’s chief science officer, has another solution.

“Invest on a headset,” he said. “I handle all phone calls while standing or pacing.” He said getting outside the building is a growing corporate trend, and he holds as many standing, walking, or off-site meetings as he can.

“Another strategy would be to set your scheduling device to remind you to get out and move for five minutes on the hour,” Bryant said.

Personal trainer and wellness expert Shirley Archer, the author of “Fitness 9 to 5,” recommends stashing light dumbbells under your desk, or keeping resistance bands in your drawer.— Reuters

LOS ANGELES: One of the world’s smallest surviving babies was discharged Friday from the hospital where she spent nearly five months in an incubator - but not before getting the Hollywood treatment.

Wearing a pink knit hat and wrapped in a pink princess blanket, Melinda Star Guido was greeted by a mob of television cameras and news photographers outside the Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center. “I’m just happy that she’s doing well,” said her 22-year-old mother Haydee Ibarra. “I’m happy that I’m finally going to take her home ... I’m just grateful.”

Melinda was born on August 30 weighing just 9 1/2 ounces, less than a can of soda. She was so tiny that she fit into her doctor’s hand.

Melinda is believed to be the world’s thirdsmallest surviving baby and second smallest in the US. Now weighing 41/2 pounds and breathing through an oxygen tube as a precaution, doctors said Melinda has made enough progress to go home. Her brain scan was normal and her eyes were developing well. She also passed a hearing test and a car seat test that’s required of premature babies before discharge. It’s too early to know how she will do developmentally and physically, but doctors planned to monitor her for the next six years.

“I am cautiously optimistic that the baby will do well, but again there is no guarantee,” said Dr. Rangasamy Ramanathan, who oversees preemies at the hospital.

Most babies as small don’t survive even with advanced medical care. About 7,500 babies are born each year in the U.S. weighing less than 1 pound, and about 10 percent survive. Melinda has come a long way since being delivered by cesarean section at 24 weeks after her mother developed high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can be dangerous for mother and fetus.

She was whisked to the neonatal intensive care unit where she breathed with the help of a machine and received nutrition through a feeding tube. Infants born before 37 weeks are considered premature. Even after discharge, such extremely premature babies require constant care at home. Their lungs are

not fully developed and they may need oxygen at home. Parents also need to watch out for risk of infections that could send infants back to the hospital. Even basic activities like feeding can be challenging.

“They may need extra help and patience while they learn to eat,” Dr. Edward Bell, a pediatrician of the University of Iowa who runs an online database of the world’s smallest surviving babies born weighing less than a pound. The list features 130 babies dating back to 1936 and does not represent all survivors since submission is voluntary. Melinda was not eligible to be included until she was discharged.

Two years ago, Bell published a study in the journal Pediatrics that found many sur-

vivors have ongoing health and learning concerns. Most also remain short and underweight for their age. There are some rare success stories. The smallest surviving baby born weighing 9.2 ounces is now a healthy 7-yearold and another who weighed 9.9 ounces at birth is an honors college student studying psychology, according to doctors at Loyola University Medical Center in Illinois where the girls were born. Soon after birth, Melinda was treated for an eye disorder that’s common in premature babies and underwent surgery to close an artery. Ibarra held Melinda for the first time after the operation in November. Her parents said the toughest part was battling traffic after work every day to see their daughter. — AP

LOS ANGELES: Haydee Ibarra, 22, left, keeps an eye on her daughter Melinda Star Guido as nurses help pack the car before they leave from Los Angeles CountyUSC Medical Center in Los Angeles. Guido spent her early months in the neonatal intensive care unit. Guido now weighs 4 pounds, 17 ounces. — AP

Meth fills hospitals with burn patients ST LOUIS: A crude new method of making methamphetamine poses a risk even to Americans who never get anywhere near the drug: It is filling hospitals with thousands of uninsured burn patients requiring millions of dollars in advanced treatment - a burden so costly that it’s contributing to the closure of some burn units.

So-called shake-and-bake meth is produced by combining raw, unstable ingredients in a 2-liter soda bottle. But if the person mixing the noxious brew makes the slightest error, such as removing the cap too soon or accidentally perforating the plastic, the concoction can explode, searing flesh and causing permanent disfigurement, blindness or even death.

An Associated Press survey of key hospitals in the nation’s most active meth states showed that up to a third of patients in some burn units were

hurt while making meth, and most were uninsured.

The average treatment costs $6,000 per day. And the average meth patient’s hospital stay costs $130,000 - 60 percent more than other burn patients, according to a study by doctors at a burn center in Kalamazoo, Mich.

The influx of patients is overwhelming hospitals and becoming a major factor in the closure of some burn wards. At least seven burn units across the nation have shut down over the past six years, partly due to consolidation but also because of the cost of treating uninsured patients, many of whom are connected to methamphetamine.

Burn experts agree the annual cost to taxpayers is well into the tens if not hundreds of millions of dollars, although it is impossible to determine a more accurate number because so many meth users lie about the cause of their burns. Larger

This photo provided Jan 10, 2012, by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department shows shake-and-bake meth ingredients found at a house that burned from a meth lab explosion Jan. 29, 2010, in Union, Mo. The crude new method of making methamphetamine, by combining raw and unstable ingredients in a 2-liter soda bottle, poses a risk even to Americans who never get anywhere near the drug: It is filling hospitals with thousands of uninsured burn patients requiring millions of dollars in advanced treatment — a burden so costly that it’s contributing to the closure of some burn units. —AP

meth labs have been bursting into flame for years, usually in basements, backyard sheds or other private spaces. But those were fires that people could usually escape. Using the shake-and-bake method, drugmakers typically hold the flammable concoction up close, causing burns from the waist to the face. “You’re holding a flame-thrower in your hands,” said Jason Grellner of the Franklin County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department. Also known as the “onepot” approach, the method is popular because it uses less pseudoephedrine - a common component in some cold and allergy pills. It also yields meth in minutes rather than hours, and it’s cheaper and easier to conceal. Meth cooks can carry all the ingredients in a backpack and mix them in a bathroom stall or the seat of a car.

The improvised system first emerged several years ago, partly in response to attempts by many states to limit or forbid over-the-counter access to pseudoephedrine. Since then, the shake-and -bake recipe has spread to become the method of choice.

By 2010, about 80 percent of labs busted by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration were using shake-and-bake recipes, said Pat Johnakin, a DEA agent specializing in meth. So instead of a large lab that supplies many users, there are now more people making meth for their personal use.

The consequences are showing up in emergency rooms and burn wards.

“From what we see on the medical side, that’s the primary reason the numbers seem to be going up: greater numbers of producers making smaller batches,” said Dr. Michael Smock, director of the burn unit at Mercy Hospital St. Louis.

It’s impossible to know precisely how many people are burned while making shake-and-bake meth. Some avoid medical treatment, and no one keeps exact track of those who go to the hospital.

But many burn centers in the nation’s most active meth-producing states report sharp spikes in the number of patients linked to meth. And experts say the trend goes well beyond those facilities.

The director of the burn center at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee, the state that led the nation in meth lab seizures in 2010, said meth injuries are doubly damaging because patients often suffer thermal burn from the explosion, as well as chemical burns. And the medical challenge is compounded by patients’ addictions. —AP

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

H E A LT H

Scientists pause research with lab-bred bird flu

CANCUN: In this July 3, 2009 photo, US World Health Organization Assistant Director Keiji Fukuda attends a conference on swine flu in Cancun, Mexico. The World Health Organization says it will take a role in helping the scientific and biosecurity communities sort through a controversy over the US government blocking full publication of two bird flu studies.— AP WASHINGTON: Scientists who created easier-to-spread versions of the deadly bird flu said Friday they are temporarily halting more research, as international specialists debate what should happen next. Researchers from leading flu laboratories around the world signed onto the voluntary moratorium, published Friday in the journals Science and Nature. What the scientists called a “pause” comes amid fierce controversy over how to handle research that is high-risk but potentially could bring a big

payoff. Two labs - at Erasmus University in the Netherlands and the University of Wisconsin-Madison created the new viruses while studying how bird flu might mutate to become a bigger threat to people.

The US government funded the work but last month urged the teams not to publicly reveal the exact formula so that would-be bioterrorists couldn’t copy it. Critics also worried a lab accident might allow the strains to escape.

The researchers reluctantly agreed not to publish all the details as long as the government set up a system to provide them to legitimate scientists who really need to know. The National Institutes of Health is creating such a system. “We recognize that we and the rest of the scientific community need to clearly explain the benefits of this important research and the measures taken to minimize its possible risks,” lead researchers Ron Fouchier of Erasmus and Yoshihiro Kawaoka of Wisconsin wrote Friday in the letter. They were joined by nearly three dozen other flu researchers.

They called for a public international meeting to debate how to learn from the work, safely. And they agreed to hold off on additional research with the existing lab-bred strains or that leads to any new ones for 60 days. A US official praised the development. The moratorium “is a really good idea, because a lot of very important issues are at hand,” said Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, who expects most flu researchers doing such work to sign on. “There aren’t a lot of people who are doing that, I can assure you.” The US also wants international input; researchers are talk ing with the World Health Organization. Today, the so-called H5N1 bird flu only occasionally infects people, mostly those who have close contact with sick poultry.

But when it does, it is highly lethal. The lab-bred H5N1 strains were a surprise because they showed it was easier than previously thought for the virus to mutate in a way that lets it spread easily between at least some mammals - in this case, ferrets. — AP

Pomegranate seed oil doesn’t cool hot flashes VIENNA: Women taking pomegranate seed oil, marketed as an alternative remedy for menopausal symptoms, got no more relief from hot flashes than women taking a pill containing sunflower oil as a placebo, according to an Austrian study. The study, in which women took the pomegranate seed oil- which is rich in plant compounds called phytoestrogens that mimic estrogen-twice a day, was the first clinical trial of the remedy and appeared in the journal Menopause. As many as 85 percent of women experience hot flashes-a sensation of heat, often accompanied by sweating, rapid heartbeat and anxiety-many times a day before, during or after menopause.

“In postmenopausal women, pomegranate seed oil does not significantly reduce hot flashes within a 12-week observation period, but further studies are needed to investigate the long-term effect,” wrote lead researcher Leo Auerback at the Medical University of Vienna.

His team followed 81 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 60.

All the women experienced a mini-

mum of five hot flashes a day, and had gone at least 12 months since their final menstrual period.

Each participant kept a diary of menopause symptoms and took two 30-milligram capsules of pomegranate seed oil or placebo pills daily for 12 weeks. At the start and the end of the study period, the researchers also tested their hormone levels. At the beginning of the study, women in the treatment group reported having an average of 11.1 hot flashes a day, and women in the placebo group reported 9.9 hot flashes each day, on average. After 12 weeks, the women taking pomegranate seed oil saw a nearly 39 percent reduction on hot flashes, to 6.8 per day, while women in the placebo group saw a drop of nearly 26 percent, to an average of 7.3 a day.

The 13 percent difference between the effects seen in the two groups was too small to credit pomegranate seed oil with any real benefit, the researchers said. The study found no differences between the participants’ hormone levels before and after the 12-week treatment, although the women on pomegran-

ate seed oil did report a statistically significant improvement in sleep quality and related symptoms.

The researchers added that the marked drop in hot flashes seen in both groups was likely attributable to a so-called “placebo effect”-a trend seen in most studies of treatments for menopausal symptoms that include a placebo control. “Like most herbal remedies, there is no clear evidence that it is effective at reducing menopause symptoms,” said Silvina Levis, who specializes in geriatrics at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in Florida but did not take part in the study.

Previous research has found that soy supplements and red clover extract, which also contain phytoestrogens, are not effective at reducing menopause symptoms such as hot flashes. The current study was funded

by German herbal supplement maker PEKANA, which also supplied the supplements. Currently, only hormone therapy-medications containing synthetic estrogens-is approved for the treatment of hot flashes in the United States.— Reuters

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

W H AT ’ S O N Greetings

Many happy returns of the day to our dear Omar who is celebrating his 7th birthday today. Lots of love and prayers from his grandfather, parents, Obaid and Dua’a.

Students of ACK implement Go-Kart project design and manufacturing

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Very happy birthday to our son Mohammad Sabeeh who celebrated his 4th birthday on 17 January. May God bless him in his life.

Wishes coming from grandfather and grand mother, papa, mama, sisters, uncles, aunts, cousins and all relatives from Kuwait, Pakistan and Bahrain.

Upcoming events Infoconnect expo to be held in Kuwait From January 29th till February 4th Infoconnect will be held at the Kuwait International Fair Grounds Infoconnect is one of the most professionally organized trade shows in Kuwait, dedicated exclusively to the computer applications and information technology sector. The show ranks high on the popularity count, drawing in a large number of exhibitors as well as qualified business visitors at each of its editions. The line of products put on exhibit at the show is quite extensive and includes computer peripherals, IT security tools, software solutions, data warehousing systems and a host of other related services and accessories. The show draws in active participation from eminent professionals from both the public as well as the private sectors and the latest innovations and developments in the IT industry are closely looked into here. The show is held over a period of seven days at the Kuwait International Fairground and enjoys large scale media coverage too.

ithin the framework of the project-based educational program, mechanical engineering students of the Australian College of Kuwait implemented the Go-Kart project design and manufacturing process. The project is unique, aggressive concept to design, manufacture and assemble small sports karts in Kuwait.

The project is supervised by Danie de

Bruin, Jan Grobbelaar, Greg Walsh, Robin Killner and Jonathan Stegen, of the College’s academic staff.

The project represents a turning point that establishes the spirit of competition, and provides the opportunity to be exposed to the mechanical engineering technologies, and fundamentals of working in an engineering environment, in addition to training for teamwork.

The project mainly aims at providing the mechanical engineering year 2 students with the opportunity to train on implementing an engineering project from which the students will acquire applied skills.

The Go-Karts were designed and manufactured by a group of mechanical engineering students, including: Hamad AlHajeri, Mohammad Saqas, Salem Fahad,

Ahmad Al-Sultan, Ebrahim Juhail, Bader Al-Shatti, Yousuf Al-Mulla, Ali Ahmad, Mohammad Akbar, Suresh Saleem, Khalil Al-Khaldi, Philip Shabazi, Fahad AlDawas, Muqdad Al-Shamali, Atiya AlAtiya, Yousuf Al-Thafeeri, Shaikha Ahmad, and Haneen Al-Merri.

Kuwait Marriott organizes blood donation drive

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uwait Marriott Hotels, in collaboration with the Central Blood Bank, recently organized a blood donation drive which took place at the Courtyard by Marriott Kuwait City.

Specially equipped medical clinics were set up by the Central Blood Bank to allow Marriott associates to donate blood while also giving them the opportunity to undergo some basic health checks including BMI & blood pressure as well. The event reflects the organizations’ ongoing commitment towards supporting every aspect of the local community and environment, while fulfilling its global “Spirit to Serve” initiative. Setting up the in-house clinic made it easy for donors to donate blood, which was also evident from the support received during the campaign.

George Aoun, Kuwait Marriott Hotels’

General Manager said, “Our blood donation drive aims to spread awareness in the local community on the importance of regular blood donation and how a drop of donated blood can be crucial in saving someone’s life. We continuously encourage all healthy citizens and residents in Kuwait to donate to this vital cause whenever they can”.

Marriott’s “Spirit to Serve” initiative is captured in uplifting human interest stories and important environmental issues across the world. Through drives like inviting its staff to donate blood, Marriott strives to be a responsible member of the local community. It continues to become an important role in people’s lives, and help them overcome adversity, embody a passion for service and achieve personal excellence.

GLEE-esque show choir This Valentine’s Day step into a musical Love Story performed by Vocal Rhapsody, KLT’s first ever GLEE-esque show choir. Vocal Rhapsody’s “Love Story” - is a show choir production with hit songs from artists such as Journey, Queen, Katy Perry and Meatloaf. It promises to be an exciting evening for all with some classic songs that everyone will enjoy. For contact: http://www.theklt.com Kuwait Bike Show The Kuwait Bike Show is an annual bike show organized by Harley Davidson of Kuwait. The show this year will take place at Marina Mall the most popular shopping destination in Kuwait.

The bike show is a competition with different categories, where judgment will be taken on certain points by experts. Invited participants will include chapters from all over the Middle East. It will be held January 26th - 27th.For further info Email: webmaster@hog-kw.com or cmc@harleydavidson-kw.com Cultural programme On the 10th of February 2012, Friday at 3:30 pm.

A cultural programme will be staged at the Carmel School Kuwait, Khaitan. This will include a Book Fair and an Art Competition with a Musical Drama (JanatarDak). It is written n Directed by Rafiqul Islam Bulu and organized by the Bangladesh Udjapon Committee Kuwait. This is an open invitation, All are welcome.

Pathanamthitta District Association family get-together

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athanamthitta District Association, Kuwait will be holding a Family Get-together on Friday 27th Januar y 2012 at CHACHOOS AUDITORIUM, Abbassiya from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

All members and well-wishers of Pathanamthitta District Association and residents of Pathanamthitta District who are interested to become members of the Association and who are willing to cooperate with us and support us in our social and welfare activities are cordially invited to attend this event with their families.

The Event will have cultural programs performed by local artists and families of Association members and Games involving the audience.

For further details and for registering participation in the event, please contact: The President at mobile no: 99722437 General Secretary at Mobile no: 66501482 Event Coordiantor at mobile no: 97863052

CSK holds dua mahfeel

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hittagong Samity Kuwait held a Dua Mahfeel on 11th January to pay tributes to Abu Taher Chy The Father of Geas Uddin Chy (Finance Secretary of CSK), who passed away in Bangladeshi. The mahfeel was presided over by Mahfujur Rahman Mahfouz and conducted by Haroon Rashid. Moulana Abu Baker Siddiky conducted the prayer mahfeel and Munajat.

General Secretary of CSK Mohd Janghir Mia participated. A huge numbers of Bangladeshi expatriates attended the mahfeel among with Saddiq Hussain (KAL President) and Habibur Rahman Habib (KAL General Secretary).

Announcements Burns Supper The Kuwait Caledonians are pleased to invite you to the 2012 Burns Supper To be held at the Movenpick Hotel, Al-Bida’a On Thursday 2nd February, 2012 Tickets will be available in January Please email kuwaitcaledonians@gmail.com Or call 60057882 Sadu weaving workshop This workshop is of four weeks duration, and it will be held twice a week. The morning group sessions are on Monday and Wednesday from 9am to 12pm. The evening group are on Sunday and Tuesday from 4:30pm to 7:30pm. A total of 8 sessions of three hours each.

This workshop will be held from January 22nd to February 18th.

For more Information kindly contact Sadu House at: info@alsadu.org.kw SaduWeaving@gmail.com 2243-2395 or 9959-7983 Boat show in Kuwait Kuwait City, is like a magnet: indeed it has been attracting Bedouin people from the Arabian interior, in search of a sea breeze and an escape from recurring drought, for centuries.

Today the metropolis is still an oasis in a land of desert plains, but rather more of the cultural and epicurean kind. Excellent

museums; a corniche ornamented with combed beaches and extravagant restaurants; modern shopping complexes and marinas, and long and lazy retreats at new beach resorts mark the Kuwait City experience. The organizers of the Kuwait International Boat Show expect more than 100 marine companies to display their latest products, boats, yachts, super yachts, electronics, engines and thousands of boating accessories from major marine manufacturers. The Boat Show encompasses more than 120.000 m2 of space, both on land and in water.

Where: Souk Sharq Marina & Water Front Boat Show Timings: 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm, February 8- 12 The Wedding Expo The Wedding Expo is an annual event that caters to the elite soon-to-be brides of Kuwait who plan on hosting an extravagant and unique wedding, looking for high range and designer oriented brands, products and services that will aid in executing “the perfect wedding.” It is an elite event, targeted to all members included in the planning and execution process of an elite wedding and all interested parties interested in wedding oriented products and services. The Wedding Expo is a 3 day event. The first day will be an ‘invitation only’ event that will include a catered service and drinks. The second and third day will be open to the public. It will include a list of exhibitors in the fields of designer wear, jewelry, flowers, beauty, catering and wedding planning who will show their products and serv-

ices to the visiting public.

The Event will be a heavily publicized event through the communication of various media outlets such as magazines, TV stations, Newspapers, online social networking and specialized invitations.

When: February 8th, 9th & 10th Where: 360 Mall Exhibition Hall ‘Sargasangamam-2012’ Vanithavedi of Saradhi Kuwait will be conducting ‘Sargasangamam 2012’ on Friday, January 27, 2012 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at Indian Community School Auditorium, Khaitan with a full day of cultural programs performed by more than 125 children of Saradhi members.

The organizing Committee headed by general convenor Manikutty Raju convened a meeting on January 20 2012 at HiDine Auditorium, Abbassiya, to evaluate the progress of the event. Vanithavedi Secretary Mini Kishore, organizing committee members Rathi Dinesh, Nimmi Muraleedharan, Mitra Udayabhanu and Priya Raju expressed their satisfaction that the talented children are preparing well to present their versatilities through more than 75 colorful programs. Saradhi President C G Vidyananda Babu, General Secretary K R Aji and Treasurer Jiji Karunakaran gave their felicitations and wished all success of the program.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

W H AT ’ S O N

Embassy Information EMBASSY OF BRAZIL The Embassy of Brazil requests all Brazilian citizens in Kuwait to proceed to the website www.brazil.org.kw (Contact Us Form / Fale Conosco) in order to register or update contact information. The Embassy encourages all citizens to do so, including the ones who have already registered in person at the Embassy. The registration process helps the Brazilian Government to contact and assist Brazilians living abroad in case of any emergency. nnnnnnn

Vichar Bharati holds seminar on Swami Vivekananda

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ichar Bharati, Kuwait, an affiliate of Seva Darshan, Kuwait conducted a seminar on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda Jayanthi. The seminar held on Friday, (Jan 20) at Indian Central School, Abbassiya on the subject “Swami Vivekananda, His Philosophy and Vision.” Sindhu Sanjith, member of Vichar Bharati and Sopanam Magazine Data Management Team, delivered the welcome speech.

Sanjay Yadav, Principal, Indian Model School, Salmiya lighted the traditional lamp and inaugurated the function. Dr M S Rajamoorthy, Aeronautical Engineer, Kuwait Airways, presided over the function.

Eminent speakers from various walks of life delivered speeches during the seminar. SureshV Balakrishnan, HOD, English Department; Bharatheeya

Vidya Bhavan, Sajeev K Peter, Business Editor, Kuwait Times; Dr T S Sreekumar, Scientific Consultant, KFAS; Krishno Sarkar, Planning Engineer, KNPC; and Satyanarayana, a social worker and poet, discoursed on related subjects.

The seminar was moderated by Vichar Bharati Farwaniya unit coordinator Vinodkumar who made the event interesting with surprise questions for the audience. Krishnakumar Paliath, President, Seva Darsan gave away the prizes for the winners.

Vibheesh Thikkodi, Organising Secretary, Vichar Bharati, delivered a summarizing talk on the various aspects of Swamiji’s vision presented at the seminar.

The common thought which originated out of the function was, the ultimate solution for all the issues

faced by the world is to understand the Indian philosophy which is built upon the concept of universal brotherhood and world peace ‘Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu.’ Redhish, Joint Coordinator, Vichar Bharati, updated the audience on ‘Vikas Project’, the new charitable venture of Seva Darshan.

Roopesh Ravi and Anitha Jayakumar presented resolutions passed by Vichar Bharati general body which calls upon Indian citizens to follow the path of Swamiji for a better world and to be the torch-bearers of Indian culture and heritage spreading its value and strength all over the world. Reshmy Krishnakumar, member of Vichar Bharati and Sopanam Magazine Data Management Team, delivered the word of gratitude to the gathering.

EMBASSY OF CANADA The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakel St., Block 4 in Da’aiyah.

Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday. The reception is closed from 12:30 to 01:00 pm for lunch break. Consular Services for Canadian Citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00 on Sunday through Wednesday. Canada offers a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad.

This service is provided so that Consular Officials can contact and assist Canadians in an emergency in a foreign country, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform Canadians of a family emergency at home. The Embassy of Canada encourages all Canadian Citizens to register online through the Government of Canada Travel Website at www.voyage.gc.ca.

The Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi provides visa and immigration services to residents of Kuwait. Individuals who are interested in visiting, working or immigrating to Canada are invited to visit the website of the Canadian Embassy to the UAE at www.UAE.gc.ca. nnnnnnn

Parliament candidates discuss their vision at the AUK

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he Model United Nations Club at the American University of Kuwait (MUNAUK) is holding a panel discussion entitled Rescuing a Nation. The discussion will host a number of parliament candidates and will take place tomorrow, January 25 at 11 am in the AUK Auditorium at the Salmiya campus.

The panel will be moderated by Dr. Mohamed Akbar, Assistant Professor of Communication and Media at AUK, and

will bring together a number of parliament candidates including, Safa Al Hashim, Aroub Al Rifai, Khaled Al Salal, Khaled Al Sultan, and Adel Al Kharafi to discuss their approaches and visions towards rescuing Kuwait.

The Model United Nations at the American University of Kuwait (MUNAUK) is a student organization that seeks to enhance leadership, communication, and debate skills among its par-

ticipants.† Through representing a variety of political positions in various intergovernmental organizations, a diverse student body will learn to negotiate and resolve socio-political issues and will assimilate their distinct academic backgrounds in their venture. MUNAUK strives to provide the younger generation with the tools to comprehend their international world in its past, present, and future.

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

EMBASSY OF CYPRUS The Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus requests Cypriot citizens living in Kuwait to register with the Embassy. This registration service is provided so that the Embassy can update its contact list and assist Cypriot citizens in cases of emergencies. Registration information can be emailed to cyprusembassykwt@gmail.com or faxed to 22253227 or given by phone to 65906048 (Mrs Christine). nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF INDIA On the occasion of the Republic Day of India, a Flag Hoisting Ceremony will be held at the Embassy of India premises at 9:00 AM on Thursday, January 26, 2012.

This will be followed by the reading of the message of Hon’ble President of India by the Ambassador, singing of patriotic songs by Indian children, and an Open House Reception. All Indian nationals in Kuwait are cordially invited to attend the Ceremony. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF KENYA The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya wishes to request all Kenyans resident in or training through Kuwait to register with the Embassy.

We are updating our database. This information is necessary in order to facilitate quick assistance and advise in times of emergency. Kindly visit in person or register through our website www.kenyaembkuwait.com. The Embassy is located in: Surra Area - Block 6 - Street 9 - Villa 3 Tel: 25353362 - 25353314; Fax: 25353316. nnnnnnn

Kuwait Center Mar Thoma Church 5 parishes jointly celebrated Christmas-New Year at National Evangelical Church, Kuwait City.

KKCA celebrates Christmas, New Year

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uwait Knanaya Cultural association held their Christmas and New Year program on Thursday 29th December at the Hi-Dine Auditorium under the leadership of President Adv. Sunny Karimkunnam along with many cultural and variety programs.

Joseph Kannankara gave the welcome speech and James Kudilil presented the annual report. Titus Thomas, Biju Jacob, Vincent Kuruppanthara, Mrs Bobini Siby, Mrs Biji Thomas, Mrs Salija Jose, Mrs Jincy Philip, Mrs Fency James, Mrs Nisha Mathew, Mrs Jossy Roy, Martin Vattakkalam, Ms Beneetta presented their best wishes on

behalf of the association following this; the various variety programs mesmerized the crowd.

FWT, SPDK medical camp

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riends Welfare Trust (FWT) and Society of Pakistani Doctors in Kuwait (SPDK) plan its medical camp for community in Jleeb Shouykh under the umbrella of Kuwait Medical Association.

Camp will be in the premises of Pakistan Excel English School at Jleeb Shouykh, Area # 1, Street #. 100.

Beside Masjid Baiqees & Touristic Park on Friday, January 27, 2012 (Timing 1 pm to 5 pm). Different Pakistani specialist doctors including gynecologist, medical and surgical specialist, eye, ENT, skin, chest and allergy specialist, Child Specialist will give their expert opinion regarding the problem of the patients.

In the same time facilities of, ECG Blood sugar screening and Blood pressure monitoring and Hepatitis screening will be available in the camp. All patients are requested to bring their previous report and investigations with them. For more information visit our website www.fwtonline.net

The programs were performed

by Beneetta Mary Jose, Binil Tom Jose, Bibina Baby, Merlin Titus, Maria Titus, Clare Biju, Karol Biju, Helen Thomas, Hentry Thomas, Alwin Roy, Melow Sunny, Misty Sunny, Alen Roy, Ann Mary Siby, Alia Anna Siby, Aiwin George, Elwin George, Jestin James, Chris James and Ruby Ann Jerry.

Vincent Kuruppanthara gave vote of thanks. After this, the committee members for the following year were elected. The committees for the New Year consisting 20 members were formed.

The program was inaugurated

by Chummar Kallaraniyil. The final event of the day was a Ganamela

performed by melody voice orchestra led by Idea Star singer Ms Neelima Dominic.

President - Philip Kauaraniyil, Secretary - Vincent Chirayil, Treasurer- Thomas Eravimagalam, Vice President-Biju Adupara, Joint Secretary- Aji Monipally Jais Thomas, Josekutty, Mrs. Sency James, Mrs. Elsamma Titus, Adivisery Members - Sunny Mathew, Titus Thomas, Biju Jacob, Siby Kurumalloor, Baby Patrens Jacob Alapatt, Jose Tom, Jose Mani, Wilson, Executive Committee Members- Roy Thuruthelpeedikayil, Savior Piravam, Jomon Uhavoor, James Kudilil, Martin, Mythe Chambakara, Jainamma Jacob, Josy Roy, Valsa Jose, Bobiny Siby, Biji Thomas, Liby Jinu.

Kuwait Bahrain-Western Union US dollar winners Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange-Western Union 2nd Draw was conducted on 18th January 2012. Following lucky winners will receive US$ 500/- each.

Srlno. Money Trans No. NAME 1 025-233-2716 T Suresh 2 884-237-1930 Reem Idrees Alazmi 3 254-654-6605 Badarul Islam Haroon Miah 4 472-178-1790 Mohammad Irshad S/O Mohd Suleman 5 308-645-4140 Abdulrahman Alsaadi 6 895-012-9993 Tariqul Islam Akram Shaikh 7 660-267-4660 Nasir Maqbool Ahmed 8 686-230-1137 Mehaboob Ur Rehman S/O Abdul Rahman 9 350-016-2920 Nasir Ahmed Mohammad Safi 10 282-020-1493 Nadeem Nazir Raja Nazir Ahmed 11 564-732-0702 Mohamed Imam Jalhaque Miz 12 810-228-6772 Wael Moustafa Morsi 13 391-566-7640 Md Khurshid Alam Nur Nabi 14 457-579-0620 Halim Abdul Malek 15 498-266-0121 Aisah Launto

16 896-033-5390 Ramachandra M Naik 17 811-614-5545 Tajinder Singh 18 320-685-0618 Ghazali Kasim Liyakat 19 058-698-7860 K Karuna 20 816-251-4436 H Haja Kuthupudeen 21 782-718-4385 Marilyn Pascua Realingo 22 664-070-7136 T Babjan 23 484-102-8904 Alicia M Abrigo 24 797-169-2974 Laika S Mangelen 25 340-127-6532 Saira L Hadjirul 26 890-261-1932 Deneesha Shankara 27 955-568-6057 Badriya Marzouk 28 638-694-9059 Musaed Motlaq Jamaan Bosamri 29 087-013-9976 Shahnawaz S Ali 30 120-699-8925 Bogidi Bhoomeshwar Next draw will be conducted on 20th Feb 2012 for 30 winners of USD 500 each and one Grand Draw for USD 5000/= among the customers who send money through Western Union from Kuwait Bahrain International Exchange Company. All send-money transactions till 15th February 2012 will be included automatically in the draw.

EMBASSY OF MYANMAR Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar would like to inform the general public that the Embassy will move its office to new location at Villa 35, Road 203, Block 2, Al-Salaam Area in South Surra. The Embassy wishes to advice Myanmar citizens and travellers to Myanmar to contact Myanmar Embassy at its new location from 26 January, 2012. Tel. 25240736, 25240290, Fax: 25240745, e-mail:myankuwait11@gmai1.com nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF PHILIPPINES The Embassy of the Philippines will be closed to public transactions on 29,30,31 January 2012 to give way to its transfer to Faiha, Block 6, Nauman bin Basher St. corner Damascus St. Villa 153. For emergency, please contact the Consular hotline at 65184433. The Philippine Overseas Labor Office and other attached agencies shall continue to operate and hold office in Jabriya until 15 March 2012. All your passports and other consular concerns will be processed at our new location, except of course labor issues. Regular working hours of the Embassy shall resume in Faiha on 01 February 2012. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF RUSSIA Embassy of the Russian Federation invites all the Russian residents in Kuwait to visit the Consulate for registration and updating your database. This information is necessary for prompt notice, assistance and warning in case of emergency. The consulate reception hours: 10:00 - 13:00, Sunday Wednesday. The Embassy is located in Kuwait City, Daiya, Block 5, Diplomatic campus, Plot 17. Tel: (+965) 22560427, 22560428. Fax: (+965) 22524969, e-mail: rusposkuw@mail.ru, consdepkuw@mail.ru Information also available on the website: www.kuwait.mid.ru

Write to us Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

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00:50 Human Prey 01:45 Animal Cops Philadelphia 02:40 Wildest India 03:35 Dogs 101 04:30 Human Prey 05:25 Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 06:20 Animal Cops Philadelphia 07:10 Monkey Life 07:35 Wildlife SOS 08:00 Orangutan Island 08:25 Dick ‘n’ Dom Go Wild 08:50 Talk To The Animals 09:15 Chris Humfrey’s Wildlife 09:40 Breed All About It 10:10 Must Love Cats 11:05 Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 12:00 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip 12:55 Snake Crusader With Bruce George 13:20 Wildlife SOS 13:50 Miami Animal Police 14:45 Animal Cops Philadelphia 15:40 Wildest India 16:30 Monkey Life 17:00 Dick ‘n’ Dom Go Wild 17:30 Chris Humfrey’s Wildlife 18:00 Talk To The Animals 18:25 Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 19:20 America’s Cutest...

20:15 Snake Crusader With Bruce George 20:40 Breed All About It 21:10 Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 22:05 Mutant Planet 23:00 Big Five Challenge 23:55 Untamed & Uncut

00:10 01:10 02:35 03:05 03:30 04:00 04:20 04:30 04:45 05:00 05:05 05:25 05:35 05:50 06:10 06:20 06:30 06:45 06:50 07:10 07:20 07:35 08:05 08:35 09:20 09:50 10:20 11:10 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:45 14:15 14:45 15:35 16:25 17:10 17:40 18:10 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:50 21:20 21:50 23:10 23:55

Chimp Family Fortunes Lark Rise to Candleford Last Of The Summer Wine Keeping Up Appearances The Green Green Grass Balamory Tellytales Bobinogs The Roly Mo Show Buzz & Tell Tweenies 3rd & Bird Nina And The Neurons Balamory Tellytales Bobinogs The Roly Mo Show Buzz & Tell Tweenies 3rd & Bird Nina And The Neurons Last Of The Summer Wine Keeping Up Appearances The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Holby City Mutual Friends The Green Green Grass Last Of The Summer Wine The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Holby City Mutual Friends The Weakest Link Eastenders Doctors Holby City Last Of The Summer Wine One Foot In The Grave New Tricks Keeping Up Appearances The Green Green Grass Lark Rise to Candleford The Weakest Link Holby City

00:40 01:30 02:25 02:50 03:15 03:40 04:25

Masterchef Masterchef Masterchef 10 Years Younger 10 Years Younger Fantasy Homes By The Sea Cash In The Attic USA

04:50 05:35 06:20 07:05 08:00 09:05 09:50 10:15 11:00 11:50 12:40 13:05 13:30 15:05 15:25 16:15 17:00 17:45 18:35 19:00 19:30 19:55 20:20 20:45 21:40

Fantasy Homes By The Sea House Swap Bargain Hunt Antiques Roadshow Cash In The Attic USA Masterchef Australia Masterchef Australia Bargain Hunt Antiques Roadshow Come Dine With Me 10 Years Younger 10 Years Younger The Boss Is Coming To Dinner The Boss Is Coming To Dinner Fantasy Homes By The Sea House Swap Bargain Hunt Antiques Roadshow 10 Years Younger Indian Food Made Easy James Martin’s Brittany James Martin’s Brittany Indian Food Made Easy Antiques Roadshow The Boss Is Coming To Dinner

00:05 00:30 00:55 01:20 01:45 02:10 02:35 03:00 03:25 03:50 04:00 04:25 04:50 05:15 05:35 06:00 06:10 06:35 07:00 07:15 07:30 07:55 08:20 08:45 09:00 09:25 09:50 10:15 10:40 11:05 11:30 11:55 12:20 12:35 13:00 13:15 13:40 13:55 14:20 14:45 15:15 15:40 16:05 16:30 16:55 17:45 18:20 18:45 Doo 19:10 19:35 20:00 20:15 20:40 21:05 21:30 21:45 22:10 22:35 23:00 23:25 23:55

Johnny Bravo Scooby Doo Where Are You! The Perils Of Penelope Pitstop Droopy: Master Detective The Flintstones Johnny Bravo Duck Dodgers King Arthur’s Disasters The Scooby Doo Show Popeye Classics Tom & Jerry Popeye The Jetsons The Flintstones Looney Tunes Pink Panther & Pals Tex Avery Duck Dodgers The Garfield Show Pink Panther And Pals Bananas In Pyjamas Baby Looney Tunes Gerald McBoing Boing Jelly Jamm New Yogi Bear Show Puppy In My Pocket The Garfield Show Pink Panther And Pals The Scooby Doo Show Tom & Jerry Dastardly And Muttley Top Cat New Yogi Bear Show Puppy In My Pocket Jelly Jamm Baby Looney Tunes Bananas In Pyjamas The Jetsons Duck Dodgers Scooby Doo Where Are You! The Garfield Show Pink Panther And Pals The Perils Of Penelope Pitstop Puppy In My Pocket Looney Tunes Tom & Jerry The Scooby Doo Show Scooby-Doo And ScrappyScooby Doo Where Are You! A Pup Named Scooby-Doo Jelly Jamm Baby Looney Tunes Gerald McBoing Boing Bananas In Pyjamas New Yogi Bear Show Pink Panther And Pals The Garfield Show Dastardly And Muttley Tom & Jerry The Garfield Show Dexters Laboratory

00:40 Samurai Jack 01:05 Samurai Jack 01:30 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 02:20 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 02:45 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 03:10 Best Ed 04:00 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

TV PROGRAMS

Years

04:25 Adventure Time 04:50 Generator Rex 05:15 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 05:40 Grim Adventures Of Billy & Mandy 05:55 I Am Weasel 06:55 Powerpuff Girls 07:45 Angelo Rules 08:00 Casper’s Scare School 08:30 The Amazing World Of Gumball 08:45 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 09:15 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 09:40 Batman: The Brave And The Bold 10:05 Angelo Rules 10:30 Chowder 10:55 Adventure Time 11:20 Eliot Kid 11:35 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 12:00 Ben 10 12:25 Sym-Bionic Titan 12:50 Courage The Cowardly Dog 13:15 I Am Weasel 13:40 Best Ed 14:05 Cow & Chicken 14:30 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 14:50 Eliot Kid 15:15 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 15:40 Ben 10: Alien Force 16:05 Courage The Cowardly Dog 16:30 Scooby-Doo! Mystery Incorporated 16:55 The Amazing World Of Gumball 17:10 Adventure Time 17:35 Regular Show 18:00 Cow & Chicken 18:25 Bakugan: Gundalian Invaders 18:50 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 19:15 Angelo Rules 19:30 Total Drama World Tour 19:55 Hero 108 20:25 Sym-Bionic Titan 20:50 Adventure Time 21:25 The Grim Adventures Of Billy & Mandy 21:50 Courage The Cowardly Dog 22:25 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 22:50 Cow & Chicken 23:00 Ben 10 23:25 Ben 10 23:50 Courage The Cowardly Dog

00:00 01:00 01:30 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00

Connect The World Backstory World Sport The Situation Room World Report Anderson Cooper 360 Piers Morgan Tonight Quest Means Business Erin Burnett Outfront World Sport African Voices World Report World Report World Sport Talk Asia World Business Today Backstory The CNN Freedom Project World One Piers Morgan Tonight News Stream World Business Today International Desk Global Exchange World Sport The CNN Freedom Project International Desk Quest Means Business Piers Morgan Tonight

00:15 00:40 01:35 02:30 03:25 04:20 05:15 05:40

Destroyed In Seconds Moments Of Terror Dirty Jobs Overhaulin’ Ultimate Survival Mythbusters How Stuff Works How It’s Made

MINDHUNTERS ON OSN ACTION HD

06:05 07:00 07:50 08:45 09:40 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:25 16:00 16:55 17:50 18:45 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:35 21:00 21:30 22:25 23:20

Dirty Jobs Mythbusters Wreckreation Nation One Man Army How Stuff Works Cake Boss Border Security Auction Kings Smash Lab Overhaulin’ Ultimate Survival Mythbusters Cash Cab Us Border Security Auction Kings How It’s Made How Stuff Works Cake Boss One Man Army Taking On Tyson Freddie Flintoff vs The World

00:40 The Gadget Show 01:05 The Gadget Show 01:35 Colony 02:25 The Tech Show 02:50 Building The Biggest 03:40 Mighty Ships 04:35 How Does That Work?

05:00 How Stuff’s Made 05:25 Man Made Marvels Asia 06:20 Catch It Keep It 07:10 Sci-Trek 08:00 How The Universe Works 08:50 How Does That Work?

09:15 How Stuff’s Made 09:40 Building The Biggest 10:35 Mighty Ships 11:25 Man Made Marvels Asia 12:20 Catch It Keep It 13:15 The Gadget Show 13:40 The Gadget Show 14:05 Sci-Trek 14:55 How Does That Work?

15:20 How Stuff’s Made 15:50 How The Universe Works 16:40 The Tech Show 17:05 Catch It Keep It 18:00 The Gadget Show 18:25 The Gadget Show 18:50 Man Made Marvels Asia 19:40 Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman 20:30 Nasa’s Greatest Missions 21:20 Catch It Keep It 22:10 How The Universe Works 23:00 Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman 23:50 Nasa’s Greatest Missions

00:00 KIM POSSIBLE 00:25 Fairly Odd Parents 00:50 Fairly Odd Parents 01:15 STITCH 01:35 STITCH 02:00 REPLACEMENTS 02:25 REPLACEMENTS 02:50 EMPEROR’S NEW SCHOOL 03:15 EMPEROR’S NEW SCHOOL 03:35 STITCH 04:00 STITCH 04:25 REPLACEMENTS 04:50 REPLACEMENTS 05:15 Fairly Odd Parents 05:35 Fairly Odd Parents 06:00 HANNAH MONTANA 06:20 RECESS 06:45 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 07:05 Suite Life On Deck 07:30 SUITE LIFE ON DECK 07:55 PHINEAS AND FERB 08:10 FISH HOOKS 08:35 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 09:00 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 09:15 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 09:25 HANDY MANNY 09:40 THE HIVE 09:48 MINI ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH 09:50 Fairly Odd Parents 10:15 SO RANDOM 10:40 HAVE A LAUGH 10:45 HANNAH MONTANA 11:10 Suite Life On Deck 11:35 JAKE & BLAKE 12:00 JONAS 12:25 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 12:45 PHINEAS AND FERB 13:10 SO RANDOM 13:30 Suite Life On Deck 13:55 SUITE LIFE ON DECK 14:20 SHAKE IT UP 14:55 HAVE A LAUGH 15:00 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 15:25 PHINEAS AND FERB 15:50 FISH HOOKS 16:10 SHAKE IT UP 16:35 Suite Life On Deck 17:00 SUITE LIFE ON DECK 17:25 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 17:50 FISH HOOKS 18:15 Suite Life On Deck 18:35 HAVE A LAUGH 18:45 Suite Life On Deck 19:10 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 19:35 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 20:00 HANNAH MONTANA 20:25 PHINEAS AND FERB 20:50 SHAKE IT UP 21:15 FISH HOOKS 21:35 GOOD LUCK CHARLIE 22:00 SHAKE IT UP 22:25 SHAKE IT UP 22:50 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 23:15 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE 23:35 SONNY WITH A CHANCE

00:20 00:35 00:50 01:05 01:15 01:40 01:55 02:10 02:30 02:45 03:00 03:15 03:25 03:50 04:05 04:20 04:40 04:55 05:10 05:25 05:35 06:00 06:15 06:30

SPECIAL AGENT OSO SPECIAL AGENT OSO JUNGLE JUNCTION JUNGLE JUNCTION LITTLE EINSTEINS HIGGLYTOWN HEROES HIGGLYTOWN HEROES JO JO’S CIRCUS SPECIAL AGENT OSO SPECIAL AGENT OSO JUNGLE JUNCTION JUNGLE JUNCTION LITTLE EINSTEINS HIGGLYTOWN HEROES HIGGLYTOWN HEROES JO JO’S CIRCUS SPECIAL AGENT OSO SPECIAL AGENT OSO JUNGLE JUNCTION JUNGLE JUNCTION LITTLE EINSTEINS HIGGLYTOWN HEROES HIGGLYTOWN HEROES JO JO’S CIRCUS

06:50 JUNGLE JUNCTION 07:00 JUNGLE JUNCTION 07:15 HIGGLYTOWN HEROES 07:30 HIGGLYTOWN HEROES 07:45 HANDY MANNY 08:00 SPECIAL AGENT OSO 08:15 JUNGLE JUNCTION 08:30 JUNGLE JUNCTION 08:45 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 09:10 THE HIVE 09:20 HANDY MANNY 09:35 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 09:50 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 10:05 THE HIVE 10:15 MINI ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH 10:25 TIMON AND PUMBAA 10:45 IMAGINATION MOVERS 11:10 MICKEY MOUSEKERSIZE 11:20 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 11:45 ART ATTACK 12:10 IMAGINATION MOVERS 12:30 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 12:45 LazyTown 13:10 HANDY MANNY 13:25 JUNGLE JUNCTION 13:40 IMAGINATION MOVERS 14:05 THE HIVE 14:15 SPECIAL AGENT OSO 14:25 LITTLE EINSTEINS 14:50 LazyTown 15:15 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 15:40 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 15:55 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 16:05 HANDY MANNY 16:20 HANDY MANNY 16:35 THE HIVE 16:45 IMAGINATION MOVERS 17:10 MICKEY MOUSEKERSIZE 17:20 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 17:45 ART ATTACK 18:10 THE HIVE 18:20 HANDY MANNY 18:30 JUNGLE JUNCTION 18:45 HANDY MANNY 18:55 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 19:10 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 19:25 THE HIVE 19:35 LITTLE EINSTEINS 20:00 MINI ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH 20:05 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 20:30 ANIMATED STORIES 20:35 HANDY MANNY 20:50 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 21:05 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 21:20 THE HIVE 21:30 MINI ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH 21:33 A POEM IS...

21:40 JUNGLE JUNCTION 21:55 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE 22:20 JAKE & THE NEVERLAND PIRATES 22:35 SPECIAL AGENT OSO 22:50 LITTLE EINSTEINS 23:15 TIMMY TIME 23:25 HANDY MANNY 23:40 JUNGLE JUNCTION 23:55 MICKEY MOUSE CLUBHOUSE

00:55 Style Star 01:25 E!es 02:20 E!es 03:15 25 Most Stylish 04:10 Sexiest 05:05 Extreme Hollywood 06:00 THS 07:50 Behind The Scenes 08:20 E! News 09:15 Scouted 10:15 40 Smokin’ On Set Hookups 12:05 E! News 13:05 Kendra 13:35 Kendra 14:05 Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami 14:35 Kourtney & Khloe Take Miami 15:00 Style Star 15:30 E!es 16:25 Behind The Scenes 16:55 Khloe And Lamar 17:25 Khloe And Lamar 17:55 E! News 18:55 E!es 19:55 Kourtney & Kim Take New York 20:55 Chelsea Lately 21:25 Kendra 21:55 Kendra 22:25 E! News 23:25 Chelsea Lately 23:55 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

00:40 01:30 02:15 03:05 03:50 04:40 05:25 06:15 07:10 08:00 08:50 09:40 10:25 11:10 11:35 11:55 12:40 13:25 14:15 15:00 15:25 15:50 16:35 17:20 18:10 19:00 19:45 20:10 20:55 21:20 22:10 23:00 23:50

Dr G: Medical Examiner Ghost Lab A Haunting Nightmare Next Door Nightmare Next Door Dr G: Medical Examiner Ghost Lab A Haunting Mystery ER FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Mystery ER Real Emergency Calls Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared Murder Shift Mystery ER Real Emergency Calls Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Real Emergency Calls Mystery ER Who On Earth Did I Marry?

On The Case With Paula Zahn Disappeared Couples Who Kill Deadly Women

00:00 City Chase: Argentina 00:30 Master of Disaster 01:00 Banged Up Abroad 01:30 Is It Real?

02:00 Banged Up Abroad 02:30 Light At The Edge of The World

RAMONA AND BEEZUS ON OSN CINEMA 03:00 Finding Genghis 03:30 Deadliest Journeys 03:30 Is It Real?

04:00 Ultimate Traveller 04:30 My Brilliant Brain 05:00 Long Way Down 05:30 Alaskan Killer Shark 06:00 City Chase: Argentina 06:30 Megastructures 07:00 Banged Up Abroad 07:30 Master of Disaster 08:00 Banged Up Abroad 08:30 Is It Real?

09:00 Finding Genghis 09:30 Deadliest Journeys 09:30 My Brilliant Brain 10:00 Ultimate Traveller 10:30 Light At The Edge of The World 11:00 Long Way Down 11:30 Is It Real?

12:00 City Chase: Argentina 12:30 My Brilliant Brain 13:00 Extreme Tourist Afghanistan 13:30 Mysteries Of The Moose 14:00 Treks In A Wild World 14:30 Naked Science 15:00 Endurance Traveller 15:30 Master of Disaster 16:00 Eccentric Uk 16:30 Is It Real?

16:30 Which Way To 17:30 Graham’s World 17:30 My Brilliant Brain 18:00 Meet The Natives: USA 18:30 Shark Nicole 19:00 Extreme Tourist Afghanistan 19:30 Hunter Hunted 20:00 Treks In A Wild World 20:30 Lockdown 21:00 Endurance Traveller 21:30 Air Crash Investigation 22:00 Eccentric Uk 22:30 Quest For The Megafish of The Amazon 22:30 Which Way To 23:30 Graham’s World 23:30 Megastructures

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

01:45 04:00 06:00 09:00 10:45 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:15 21:00 22:45

Tortured-18 Sleep Dealer-18 Mindhunters-18 Ong Bak 2-PG15 Winning Time-PG15 Rocky IV-PG15 The Lost Future-PG15 Winning Time-PG15 Patriot Games-PG15 The Lost Future-PG15 Fatal Secrets-PG15 The Hit List-18

In Her Skin-18 Ramona And Beezus-PG My Name Is Khan-PG15 The Front-PG15 Mammoth-PG15 Date Night-PG15 Gasland-PG15 Mammoth-PG15 Flipped-PG The Art Of Getting By-PG15 Biutiful-18

12:00 Two And A Half Men 12:30 Will And Grace 13:00 Just Shoot Me 13:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 16:30 The Office 18:00 Friends 18:30 Friends 19:00 Modern Family 19:30 Parks And Recreation 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 21:30 The Colbert Report 22:00 Weeds 22:30 The Ricky Gervais Show 23:00 Family Guy

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00

Desperate Housewives Breaking Bad Top Gear (US) Revenge In Treatment Good Morning America Law & Order: Los Angeles Emmerdale

08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show The Martha Stewart Show The View Desperate Housewives Revenge Law & Order: Los Angeles Live Good Morning America The Ellen DeGeneres Show Emmerdale Coronation Street Grey’s Anatomy Private Practice Royal Pains Terriers In Treatment

00:00 01:00 02:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 12:00 12:30 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

C.S.I. Top Gear (US) Breaking Bad Surface C.S.I. How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street House Top Gear (US) How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show House C.S.I. How I Met Your Mother Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show House Grey’s Anatomy Royal Pains Hawthorne In Plain Sight

01:15 American Dragons-18 03:00 Paranormal Activity-PG15 05:00 Medium Raw-PG15 07:00 Star Trek: First Contact-PG 09:00 Superman/ Batman: Apocalypse-PG15 10:30 The Postman-PG15 13:30 Echelon Conspiracy-PG15 15:30 Superman/ Batman: Apocalypse-PG15 17:00 Ip Man-PG15 19:00 Circle Of Eight-PG15 21:00 The Hit List-18 23:00 The Nun-18

02:00 Double Wedding-PG15 03:30 The Parent Trap-PG 06:00 Nativity!-PG 08:00 Addams Family Values-PG 10:00 Molly-PG15 12:00 Sleepover-PG15 14:00 Babe-FAM 15:45 Renaissance Man-PG15 18:00 Easy Virtue-PG15 20:00 The Prince And Me 4: The Elephant Adventure-PG15 22:00 Feed The Fish-PG15

01:00 02:45 04:45 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 14:45 17:00 19:00 21:00 23:00

Raising Cain-PG15 Blind Mountain-PG15 The River-PG15 Leaving Normal-PG15 Shipwrecked-PG Unstrung Heroes-PG15 9-PG The Hudsucker Proxy-PG15 Flying By-PG15 The Waiting City-PG15 Indecent Proposal-18 New York I Love You-18

01:00 Timeline-PG15 03:00 Chasing Papi-PG 05:00 Cinema Verite-PG15 07:00 The Greatest-PG15 09:00 District 9-PG15 11:00 Just Married-PG15 12:45 School Of Rock-PG15 14:45 The Great Debaters-PG15 17:00 District 9-PG15 19:00 Crazy On The Outside-PG15 21:00 The Art Of Getting By-PG15 23:00 The Nail: The Story Of Joey Nardone-18

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00

Open Season 3-FAM Slappy And The Stinkers-PG Christopher Columbus-PG Open Season 3-FAM Columbus III: The New World-PG

10:00 Sabrina The Teenage Witch: Friends Forever-PG 12:00 Pocahontas & The Spider Woman-PG 14:00 Cats & Dogs: The Revenge Of Kitty Galore-PG 16:00 A Christmas Carol-PG 18:00 Sabrina The Teenage Witch: Friends Forever-PG 20:00 Ed-PG 22:00 Pocahontas & The Spider Woman-PG 00:00 Older Than America-PG15 02:00 Pelican Blood-18 04:00 Life In A Day-PG15 06:00 13 Going On 30-PG15 08:00 Ways To Live Forever-PG15 10:00 Citizen Jane-PG 12:00 Coyote County Loser-PG15 14:00 Furry Vengeance-PG 16:00 Citizen Jane-PG 18:00 The List-PG15 20:00 Personal Effects-18 22:00 Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows Pt.1-PG15 00:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 15:00 17:30 18:00 19:00 20:00 22:00 22:30

European Challenge Cup Trans World Sport Volvo Ocean Race UFC The Ultimate Fighter WWE SmackDown Cricket Twenty20 Volvo Ocean Race Volvo Ocean Race Highlights Trans World Sport WWE Experience WWE SmackDown Aquabikes Snooker Masters

02:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 03:00 Horse Racing 07:00 Scottish Premier League 09:00 FIVB Beach Volley Ball 10:00 World Cup of Pool 11:00 World Pool Masters 12:00 US Bass Fishing 13:00 Cricket Twenty20 19:00 Scottish Premier League 21:00 Futbol Mundial 21:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 22:00 Trans World Sport 23:00 World Hockey 23:30 Cricket Twenty20

01:00 SPL Highlights 01:30 European PGA Tour Highlights 02:30 World Hockey 03:00 World Cup of Pool 04:00 World Pool Masters 05:00 US Bass Fishing 06:00 FIVB Beach Volley Ball 07:00 Golfing World 08:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 09:00 SPL Highlights 09:30 European Challenge Cup 11:30 Trans World Sport 12:30 Golfing World 13:30 Snooker Masters 17:30 World Hockey 18:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 19:00 Golfing World 20:00 European Challenge Cup 22:00 European PGA Tour Highlights 23:00 Dubai World Cup Carnival

00:00 01:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00

WWE Experience V8 Supercars Championship Speedway Intercontinental Le Mans Cup UFC Unleashed WWE NXT WWE Bottom Line Speedway Intercontinental Le Mans Cup V8 Supercars Championship WWE Bottom Line WWE Vintage Collection Intercontinental Le Mans Cup Speedway Powerboats WWE NXT WWE Experience UFC Unleashed UFC Fight Night

34

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

stars CROSSWORD 567

STAR TRACK

CALVIN & HOBBES

Aries (March 21-April 19) You can turn a difficult task into something quite simple. You lead the way on a project—others will follow. However, you could be a bit impulsive and restless—concentration may be hard to come by this afternoon. Avoid making important decisions too quickly and watch your words before they come out all over everyone. Respect, position and achievement are central goals for you as a new phase begins in your life. Creating a structure to empower and maintain your ideals and principles becomes a high priority—an article of faith. Try to keep some sense of reality in your interactions with friends this afternoon. This is an excellent time to listen to others and get to know someone better. In family life . . . be completely present.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Your communication skills are sharp. If you are in business for yourself, redesign or add color to your advertisement. Send out your advertisement or pass around your advertisement to a new area or a new group of people. If you are working for someone else, be sure to let them know you have ideas. On a more mundane level, it is an excellent day to talk on the phone. Others may drain away your energy, making it a difficult time to initiate new projects. Try to keep the interruptions at a low level. This afternoon you have an opportunity to help a friend or family member. Protective instincts may be activated so as to appease any discord in the home. You are good at making your surroundings as pleasant as possible and people enjoy being around you.

POOCH CAFE ACROSS 1. A state-chartered savings bank owned by its depositors and managed by a board of trustees.

4. A coffee cake flavored with orange rind and raisins and almonds.

9. An independent agency of the United States government responsible for aviation and spaceflight.

13. Any of various primates with short tails or no tail at all.

14. (Greek mythology) One of the mountain nymphs.

15. The sixth month of the civil year.

16. Having leadership guidance.

17. The capital and largest city of Lithuania.

18. The United Nations agency concerned with atomic energy.

19. Any of a number of fishes of the family Carangidae.

21. Of a dull grayish brown to brownish gray color.

23. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

25. Supernatural half-man and half-bird vehicle or bearer of Vishnu.

27. An loose coverall (coat or frock) reaching down to the ankles.

30. (Old Testament) In Judeo-Christian mythology.

33. A strip of land projecting into a body of water.

35. The branch of computer science that deal with writing computer programs that can solve problems creatively.

38. Fermented alcoholic beverage similar to but heavier than beer.

40. Flightless New Zealand birds similar to gallinules.

42. Covered with paving material.

45. A port city in southwestern Iran.

46. An international organization created in 1949 by the North Atlantic Treaty for purposes of collective security.

47. A unit of information equal to one million (1,048,576) bytes.

48. (Greek mythology) Goddess of the earth and mother of Cronus and the Titans in ancient mythology.

51. An Arabic speaking person who lives in Arabia or North Africa.

54. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising solely the razorbill.

58. An honorary arts degree.

60. Someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike.

62. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

63. A container.

64. A member of the Iroquoian people formerly living east of Lake Ontario.

66. A fluorocarbon with chlorine.

67. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism.

68. Ground snakes.

69. Large brownish-green New Zealand parrot.

DOWN 1. A master's degree in library science.

2. A detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work.

3. English monk and scholar (672-735).

4. Pertaining to the forward part of a vessel.

5. Lacking sufficient water or rainfall.

6. Valuable source of caviar and isinglass.

7. A Dravidian language spoken in southern India.

8. A rapid bustling commotion.

9. Submerged aquatic plant having narrow leaves and small flowers.

10. A city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan River.

11. A branch of the Tai languages.

12. A river that rises in northeastern Turkey (near the source of the Euphrates) and flows generally eastward through Armenia to the Caspian Sea. 20. Small European freshwater fish with a slender bluish-green body.

22. (informal) Of very poor quality.

24. A radioactive transuranic element.

26. An Indian side dish of yogurt and chopped cucumbers and spices.

28. The arch of bone beneath the eye that forms the prominence of the cheek.

29. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for the sale of petroleum.

31. A member of the Siouan people formerly living in the Missouri river valley in NE Nebraska.

32. Chief port of Yemen.

34. A long noosed rope used to catch animals.

36. Jordan's port.

37. An informal term for a father.

39. A federal agency established to regulate the release of new foods and health-related products.

41. A defensive missile designed to shoot down incoming intercontinental ballistic missiles.

43. Type genus of the Anatidae.

44. A small quantity of anything.

49. Fleshy and usually brightly colored cover of some seeds that develops from the ovule stalk and partially or entirely envelopes the seed.

50. An inactive volcano in Sicily.

52. Harsh or corrosive in tone.

53. A Chadic language spoken in northern Nigeria.

55. The state of needing something that is absent or unavailable.

56. A small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold.

57. Type genus of the family Arcidae.

59. The syllable naming the first (tonic) note of any major scale in solmization.

61. The cry made by sheep.

65. A silvery soft waxy metallic element of the alkali metal group.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) If you are in sales and the sales have not been going well— stand back, business will soon be propelled forward. Mental endeavors are favored, as is communication with loved ones. Avoid being inflexible.

You take a serious attitude to just about all aspects of your life. The afternoon energy changes and you may find better results from your sales outcome. Parental instincts may come into action now and you make every effort to appease any discord. Also, there is a strong wish to make your surroundings as pleasant as possible. This could mean a new purchase or some new guidelines for the family members. Someone may invite you to see his or her vacation pictures. It is good to be included—go and enjoy and laugh along with the others.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

NON SEQUITUR

You must be very careful in the way that you spend your money. It is best not to buy something just because a neighbor, best friend or child has something you think you might like. In the workplace you will find good conditions and communication among co-workers, particularly with the opposite sex. This tends to be a productive day in practical affairs. You should enjoy great success and attention through your profession. Being in the spotlight is common to you during this time. Engaging in social activities brings favorable results for you.

Meeting new people is most encouraging now—network. Just about anything you do should be both rewarding and enjoyable. Take time to be appreciative to a friend or loved one this evening.

Leo (July 23-August 22) You can get a great deal closer to your ambitions and goals now—especially when you look back to see how far you have come.

Today is kind of like a booster shot because you will see that there are very few feet to run before reaching the completion of your goals. Although the day is already crowded with things to do, places to go and people to see . . . you will eagerly move in the direction of achievement. You have all the support you need. Success in relationships is just as important at this time and your ability to attract the right person is strong. Of course, if you need to put the romance back into your marriage or communicate your feelings to a lover, then . . . do so now. Perhaps everyone will be eating together at the same time and place this evening?

ZITS

Virgo (August 23-September 22) This marks a time when relations with a spouse or business partner are on a solid ground. Expressing affections should come easily at this time and can do much good for your disposition. There are promises of smooth sailing to partnerships. Business dealings may be particularly fruitful now, especially if you give one hundred percent. Also, romance is heightened in your personal relationships and you should take the time to actively cultivate them. There is a promise of exciting times to come between partners! Your thirst for freedom and excitement, while a definite boon to any relationship, should not completely dominate your decision-making process. This evening there is time to reflect and understand your own situation. Emotions are very clear.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) Communicating and getting your message across to others is at a high just now. Your timing for business consulting should be perfect and those around you should find you most spontaneous and alive. This is not a good time, however, to make any concrete decisions about a relationship or business deal. There could be a collision of powerful energies spilling into your life in unpredictable ways. Careful—the decisions and actions now will have effects later and you will want the results to be positive. This afternoon, weather permitting, you and your friends can engage in some pleasant outdoor activities. There is a wonderful relief of stress now. You should have some grand times this evening with your companions. You feel the power of love.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You display an urge to be recognized by co-workers for your hard work. There is a possibility that during this time, work as a whole will come under examination and you definitely need to feel secure in the professional realm. With your sense of humor you will be able to add a positive relief to the day and with a new vision, problems are easy to solve. If you are not surrounded by interesting people this afternoon, tonight is a good time to step out with friends for a little social time. This also marks a time when you enjoy good relations with family members and your financial position may improve because of your attention to your work. Now is a good time to express your love to a special someone. Dessert time can be a special treat.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

To

Yesterday’s Solution

This is an excellent time to sway others to your cause through speeches or clever arguments—your thinking is most lucid. You are buoyed with confidence now to succeed at any project you attempt. If you deal with groups, you will probably be advocating sweeping changes. Just do not become involved in any project that may require a follow through later. Make sure both your expectations and abilities are realistic before diving into something you may not be able to escape without harm or embarrassment. In your hunger for emotional excitement, you may seek out new and different kinds of people, or maybe new and different kinds of places to spend your afternoons or evenings. Companionship with others is most rewarding today.

Now is a time for imagination and creativity when it comes to ideas and thinking—you seem to have an answer for all the problems you detect at this time. This, coupled with the ability to put your thoughts into words, allows you to charm any audience and perhaps teach or lead a group. You may be sought after for your advice regarding very personal and emotional issues.

You will be able to be understanding and helpful. You are able to cut through the surface matter and get at the real cause of a problem, be it mathematical, project oriented or based on emotion. A good book or movie would be appreciated later this evening. Your love is intensified and any relationship that gets your attention this evening will be especially fine.

Yesterday’s Solution Yester

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) This day indicates a time where you are very innovative. You will impress people in conversation and communicate to loved ones on new levels. If you channel the energy you receive, you can be very influential. Your timing should be perfect and those around you should find you most spontaneous. Children may surprise you today with their creativeness. This could mean a surprise gift from a friend or a young salesperson at your door. Later, you may enjoy a true-hearts-and-flowers afternoon, filling you with harmonious feelings. Your desires are strong and you will want to enjoy yourself. A new friendship or romance started today has a bright and long future. If emotional fences need mending, now is a good day for the task.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Word Sleuth Solution

There is concern now about the future of many different types of businesses. Your emotions may be intensified and this could cloud your logical reasoning. You may not be very objective; however, if you relax and think for a short while about any upcoming decisions, you can conquer any worries about your own profession. Keep notes on your ideas of how to help with business dilemmas; you will be pleased with the end results. There is a yearning to broaden your horizons and move in new directions with your career. There is always room for improvement within your company and whatever you decide, the company for which you work would benefit from your growth. This evening you may choose to spend some time socializing with friends.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

lifest yle M u s i c

Kanye West poses with his three awards at the 47th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

ince its beginnings in the 1970s, rap music has transformed from an underground, street-based sound to a definitive part of pop culture, transcending race and becoming one of the strongest and most prolific - voices of today’s generation. But at the Grammy Awards, rap has had a long-lasting losing streak in the top categories. The hip-hop sound - first recognized at the 1989 Grammys - has seen numerous prestigious nominations over the years, and rap acts have either led or tied for most Grammy nominations for 10 of the last 14 years. But rarely will a hip-hop act win one of the show’s top four honors - album, song and record of the year, along with best new artist.

Instead, rap acts tend to win rap awards. 50 Cent, who won his first and only Grammy two years ago, believes Grammy voters are out of touch and need a fresh outlook on contemporary music. “I think that the board is a lot older and they’re conservative, so some of the content in the music is offensive on some level,” said 50 Cent, who famously interrupted Evanescence’s best new artist speech by walking onstage when he lost to the rock group in 2004. “There’s a lot of people that don’t accept that hip-hop culture is now pop culture.”

This year, hip-hop leads the Grammys in nominations again, with Kanye West earning seven; it’s his third year as the show’s top-nominated act. While his song “All of the Lights” is up for song of the year, his critically revered fifth album, “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” didn’t score an album of the year nomination, a shock to many. Even Jimmy Jam - the chair emeritus of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences - was surprised by West’s snub.

“I think he’s one of the genius artists, and I’m saying this as a person who’s worked with Michael Jackson and Prince, so I don’t throw that word around lightly,” Jam said. “So, yes, I was surprised.” West’s album with Jay-Z, “Watch the Throne,” was also left out of the top album category; both CDs are nominated for best rap album. Jay-Z, who once boycotted the Grammys because of the show’s lack of love for hip-hop, says Grammy nominations are “cool,” but he doesn’t use the accolades as a barometer of his success.

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OutKast members Big Boi and Andre 3000 posing in front of the three awards they won at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles.

“The Grammys and all of those other things, they’re fine and it’s a good way for everyone to get together amongst their peers and collect some trophies at the end of the night, but my whole thing is for the people, as long as the people accept it - that’s my real Grammy,” Jay-Z said. “As long as it connects with an audience in a way.” But Steve Stoute, the former record executive who accused the Grammys of being irrelevant last year in a full-page advertisement in The New York Times after Eminem and Justin Bieber lost top awards, says there is a bigger problem. Stoute believes The Recording Academy doesn’t have board members who understand hip-hop as a true art form.

“If (The Recording Academy) understood that, then (rappers) would be scoring technical points,” he said.

“They don’t get the technical points.” In Grammy history, 14 hip-hop albums have received nominations for album of the year. Lauryn Hill has the distinction of being the first hip-hop artist to win album of the year for “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” in 1999, but the album, while featuring rap, was heavy on R&B. Hill also won best new artist that year, the second time a rapbased act had done so following Arrested Development’s win in 1993. A rapper hasn’t won the award since.

OutKast, the alternative, genre-bending hip-hop duo, followed in Hill’s footsteps with an album of the year win in 2004 for the double disc “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.” It, too, was not strictly hip hop, as Andre 3000 blended rock and even jazz for his half of the project. But while there have been high-profile wins, what stands out more are the losses.

No rapper has ever won record or song of the year, and both Eminem and West, each nominated three times, have failed to win the album of the year trophy in years where they appeared to be critical favorites.

At last year’s Grammys, three of the five songs nominated for record of the year were rap smashes.

Lady Antebellum’s crossover hit, “Need You Now,” ended up taking away the record and song of the year honors. Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the leader and drummer of the Roots, says the hip-hop community shares some of the blame for its losing streak. He says

M o v i e s

Lauryn Hill holds her five Grammy Awards during the 41st Annual Grammy Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

those in the genre aren’t involved enough with The Recording Academy, its community and its events.

“We’re not active members of (The Recording Academy) and I promise to take a more active role in that,” said Questlove, who has won three Grammys. “I should definitely come and be more involved in that.

It’s taxing time-wise, but you know, I can either sit and complain ... or do something about it.” Jam says rap’s losses are also a reflection of the Grammy membership, which he said is “traditionally very heavy” with members of the country, jazz and classical music worlds.

“We’re a membership organization and the members vote. So, if the numbers of members who consider themselves of the hip-hop genre ... if those numbers are lower, then the results probably point to that fact,” Jam said. But Stoute, who is the author of “The Tanning of America: How Hip-Hop Created a Culture That Rewrote the Rules of the New Economy,” had harsh words for Jam, a founding member of funk-soul band The Time and best known for producing multiple hits for Janet Jackson, Usher, Boyz II Men and more with partner Terry Lewis.

Stoute and Jam had a conversation after last year’s awards, and Stoute was upset that Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind” wasn’t up for song of the year: At the Grammys, a track is not eligible for that award if it contains a sample or if it’s not an original piece of work; that disqualifies much of rap, which relies heavily on sampling (“Empire State of Mind” samples The Moments’ “Love on a Two-Way Street”). Stoute said Jam should be helping hip-hop, and blasted the renowned producer. “What he’s doing is not right,” Stoute said of Jam. “And if he’s supposed to be the guy who understands urban music because of his famed career as a producer ... (and) if he’s not going to be sensitive to the creativity around hip-hop, I am sorry, we’re in trouble.”

Jam, who was The Recording Academy’s chairman from 2005 to 2009, says his goal was to diversify the Grammy community, and if people have an issue with traditional Grammy rules, they should demand a change. “You can write a proposal,” Jam said. “I hope ...

people step up to the challenge rather than dismiss it, which is the easy thing to do.’” Jam also said he helped bring forth the best rap song award at the 2004 Grammys, which honors rap tracks that contain samples. Jam also implemented a new rule in 2009 that allowed anyone nominated for a Grammy to bypass the regular application process and automatically be made a member for a year. He said he did it so that nominated acts would easily be involved in the organization the following year. “If hip-hop is the most nominated, then they should be the best represented according to what I did,” Jam said. — AP

scar magic is brewing in a gritty Chicago factory where the statues soon to be hoisted in victory by the stars of the silver screen are born in a bubbling vat of britannia. The pewter-like alloy is poured slowly into a mold and cools quickly. But it takes 40 hours of precise and delicate work before Oscar is ready for the bright lights of Hollywood. The heart of the trophy-with its iconic square jaw, broad chest and sword-is swiftly hammered out in preparation for careful polishing. Once every blemish is erased and Oscar shines like a mirror, the statue is hand-dipped in electrically-charged tubs of molten copper, nickel, silver and 24carat gold.

Then it’s on to more polishing and a blinding lacquer before Oscar is finally screwed into his heavy base and carefully boxed using white gloves. Hand-casting is a dying art, but one the Academy is willing to pay dearly for as it jealously guards the reputation of one of the most sought-after and recognized trophies in the world. The perils of seeking cheaper alternatives were on display at the Golden Globes last year when Robert De Niro showed up emptyhanded in the press room after receiving a lifetime achievement award. “The top fell off,” he told reporters.

“They’ll have to solder it back on.” RS Owens-which has been making Oscar since 1982 — is the last trophy manufacturer left in the United States. Most of the cheap trophies handed out at kids’ sports tournaments are now made in China. RS Owens has fought to hang on by focusing on “prestige” awards-like the Oscars, the Emmys, MT V Music Awards, and the London International Advertising Awardand the corporate market.

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Alison Klayman, center, director of the documentary film ‘Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry,’ poses with the film’s editor Jen Fineran, left, and composer Ilan Isakov. — AP

new documentary film offers a glimpse into the life of Chinese artist and dissident Ai Weiwei, conveying a creative, brave, yet humble man who has become more cautious following his 81-day government detention in 2011.

“Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry,” which premiered at the Sundance film festival on Sunday, features interviews China’s leading artists and activists and people who surround Ai in his life. It includes footage that humanizes the man, showing surprising tears from his mother worried about his safety, the artist playing with his young son, and highlights from his projects such as a poor response to the 2008 Sichuan earthquake.

Ai, who was named the world’s most powerful artist by UK-based ArtReview magazine in October since his release, appears in interviews only before his detention, but not after his release. The 54-year-old bearded, burly Chinese artist wanted to attend the Sundance screening “but felt it was just going to invite too much trouble,” the film’s director Alison Klayman told the audience after a stand-

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ing ovation in Park City, Utah, where the festival takes place. Ai became a symbol for China’s crackdown on artists and dissidents when his disappearance and secret detention after battling Chinese authorities sparked an international outcry. Last November he paid a bond of 8.4 million yuan (then $1.3 million) on a tax evasion charge, which he denies, while his supporters continued to raise the full, combined bill of 15 million yuan (then $2.4 million.) Klayman spent several years chronicling his rise to prominence and told the audience she believed the detention of the artist, which became a rallying point for China’s free speech and other movements, had changed him. “There was absolutely a change. I really think about it as: there was the time before the detention and there was the time after,” she said.

“The big thing is that he is constantly changing, he always has been, so I don’t know where it is going to end up.”

Insight into Ai The film offers audiences some insight

into Ai’s childhood, family, formative time spent living for years in New York and his reasons for often criticizing China’s government, which is expressed in many of his contemporary works. “If you don’t act, the danger becomes stronger,” says Ai, who had a hand in designing the Bird’s Nest stadium at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and has had installations at some of the world’s major museums including London’s Tate Modern Gallery.

“Never Sorry” shows his efforts gathering and listing more than 5,000 names of students who died in the Sichuan earthquake, pointing to shoddy school construction and claiming that he was punched in the head by police in Sichuan’s capital Chengdu. But it also offers glimpses of a loving father and stoic son rarely publicly separated from his art and activism.—Reuters

Eminem performs at the BET Awards in Los Angeles.

—AP file photos

Clients are coming back Its display cases are filled with familiar figures like the Jolly Green Giant, the Planter’s Peanut, the Pillsbury Doughboy, Tony the Tiger and a crystal, sunglasswearing Starkist Tuna. But it had to lay off around a third of its staff after the 2008 economic crisis took a huge bite out of the

Jay-Z performs during a concert at Yankee Stadium in New York.

“employee recognition” market as it was already struggling to stem a slow, but steady loss of its “prestige” client base. “In the past, many of the prestigious awards (contracts) that we lost didn’t care that they were made in China,” said Scott Siegel, whose father founded RS Owens in 1938. “They only cared about price, especially when the recession hit, that became even more important. I’m starting to see signs of that turning around. People are more interested in protecting jobs in the United States.”—AFP

Oscar statuettes at various stages of plating - copper, nickel, silver and 24-carat gold - sit on a table at the RS Owens factory in Chicago, Illinois on December 6, 2011. — AFP

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LIFESTYLE

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

F a s h i o n

Paris Haute Couture

Models present creations by French designer Alexis Mabille during the Spring/Summer 2012 Haute Couture collection show, yesterday in Paris. —AFP

Models present creations by Bouchra Jarrar during the Spring/Summer 2012 Haute Couture collection show, yesterday in Paris. —AFP

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Years

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

lifestyle F a s h i o n

Models wear creations by Belgian designer Kris Van Assche for Christian Dior. — AP/AFP photos

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ow that older men have ditched it to look cool, the stylish young are reclaiming the necktie as their own, with the once-derided accessory making a stealthy comeback on the menswear runways. “I never wear one,” Antoine Arnault, the 34-year-old son of luxury tycoon Bernard Arnault told AFP on the sidelines of the first ever menswear show by the LVMH-owned shoemaker Berluti-where ties were a full part of the look. “Except on Monday afternoons when I have appointments with my father. If I didn’t have a tie I’d be the odd one out.”

On Saturday, his father was tie-less as he sat front row at the Dior Homme show-a fact that did not go unnoticed by the fashionista crowd. “It’s the weekend,” whispered one. Silence descended on the vast domed tennis club, as the first suited model stepped out with a tie, dark and slim, like the majority of the looks sent out by the house’s young Belgian designer Kris Van Assche. Ties were similarly ubiquitous at Hermes or Raf Simons-where there was a twist, with the necktie trapped between two shirt collars layered at different heights. And where there were no ties there was often the suggestion of one-in a strip of silk scarf visible under the collar at Paul Smith, or a crossed kimono-style silk shirt at Louis Vuitton.

Karl Lagerfeld for one never steps out without a tie. “I have worn one all my life-starting at school,” he told AFP after the Dior Homme show.

“I can’t stand people looking dishevelled-especially after age 35!” Because age is critical when it comes to the tie. “For a few years now older men, businessmen have started going without a tie to look younger,” the luxury industry consultant

Models present creations by Croatian designer Nadir Doma during the Men’s Autumn-Winter ready-to-wear (French PAP) 2012-2013 collection show on January 21, 2012 in Paris.

Jean-Jacques Picart told AFP on the sidelines of Kenzo’s menwear show, which worked a generous helping of ties into a look billed as urban, cool and “on the go.”“So it’s only normal for young people to reclaim them” The problem with going tie-less, said Picart, is that most shirts are designed for a tie. You have to choose a collar that buttons very high on the neck for it to look right-and there are not many of those out there. Plus, past a certain age, the “neck can look a bit scrawny-a bit like a chicken or turkey’s neck”-a powerful argument in his view for putting the tie back in its place. At Lanvin on Sunday there were no ties until the finale, but there were neckties for all the evening looks-save for a single bow-tie, a nod to the personal style of designer Alber Elbaz.”Ties are a part of the suit that is coming back,” Elbaz confirmed. “Not the ties of our fathers or grandfathers. They are worn by a new generation that comes from sport, new technologies. “It’s neither the world of the dandy nor of the boardroom.” — AFP

Models wear creations by British designer Kim Jones for Louis Vuitton.

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

Years

lifestyle F a s h i o n

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onatella Versace climbed Mount Olympus for inspiration in the opening show of Paris’ spring-summer haute couture week, in top form after an eight-year hiatus. Gold metal discs sculpted the busts and accentuated the hips as models with never-ending legs slinked down 13 shimmering steps yesterday at the grand salon of the Ecole des BeauxArts, the acclaimed Left Bank school. The show marked the designer’s return to haute couture week, with the Atelier Versace brand reportedly capitalizing on profits from last year’s lucrative collaboration with mass market fashion retailer H&M. The clothes were pure Grecian drama.

A yellow mini-dress with laser-cut silk satin sparkled with the help of Swarovski crystals. The summer palette was served up in silvers, oranges and acid green. One goddess pearl gray evening gown made in Chantilly lace dazzled as the music climaxed with an aria from Tosca, sung by Greek legend Maria Callas. Versace classics were revisited and given an Aphrodite-like

twist, such as the leather biker jacket and sexy shorts with gold metallic gussets.

Gasps of delight came from the crowd, which included US and French Vogue editors Anna Wintour and Emanuelle Alt as well as actresses Cameron Diaz and Diane Kruger. “I loved it. It was so sexy, so typically Versace. I’m looking myself to see if I can get one,” Kruger said after the show. That means fashionistas can look for one of the numbers on a red carpet in the not-too-distant future. — AP

Models wear creations by Fashion designer Donatella Versace as part of her Women’s Spring Summer 2012/2013 fashion collection presented in Paris, yesterday.

— AP/AFP photos

Rap an overall winner, but loses at the Grammys

TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012

36

Performers take part in a dragon dance in a night parade in Hong Kong yesterday, celebrating the start of the Chinese Lunar New Year. According to the Chinese zodiac, this year is called the Year of the Dragon.—AP

Fireworks, feasts to celebrate Year of Dragon

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illions of ethnic Chinese, Koreans and Vietnamese across Asia are ringing in the new Year of the Dragon with fireworks, feasting and family reunions. From Beijing to Bangkok and Seoul to Singapore, people hoping for good luck in the new year that began yes-

terday are visiting temples and lighting incense, setting off firecrackers and watching street performances of lion and dragon dances. For many, the Lunar New Year is the biggest family reunion of the year for which people endured hours of cramped travel on trains and buses to get

home. In ancient times the dragon was a symbol reserved for the Chinese emperor, and it is considered to be an extremely auspicious sign. —AP

In pomp, New Zealand Maori heads recovers severed

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Maori heads are covered up by a black fabric yesterday at Quai Branly museum in Paris, during the restitution ceremony to New Zealand, following a four-year political struggle, of 20-odd mummified heads of Maori warriors, who tattooed their faces with elaborate geometric designs to show their rank. —AFP

n a ceremony where music and singing mingled with calls to the spirit of ancestors, New Zealand recovered 20 mummified Maori heads yesterday that had been held in French museums for nearly two centuries. “You are the breath of life, you, our forefathers,” Derek Lardelli, a Maori elder, intoned at a packed ceremony at the Quai Branly in Paris.

“You have been in France so long,” Lardelli said in Maori.

“Today we will be able to bring you home, to Aotearoa,” he said referring to the Maori name, “The Land of the Long White Cloud,” for New Zealand. The handover gathered French Culture Minister Frederic Mitterrand, New Zealand’s ambassador to France, Rosemary Banks, and experts from Te Papa, the museum of New Zealand culture in Wellington.

The story of the heads dates back to the early exploration of New Zealand by Europeans in the 18th century. Maori warriors tattoed their faces with elaborate design that reflected their rank. The heads of those killed in battle were severed and preserved, but venerated until the soul was deemed to have departed. Fascinated by the tattoos, European seafarers bought the heads from the Maoris, who often swapped the trophies for weapons with which to fight rival tribes. As the grotesque commerce widened, Maoris would sometimes attack enemies in order to take slaves, kill them and then tattoo the severed head for trading.

New Zealand began a campaign in the 1980s to recover the heads so that the remains could be interred with respect.

More than 200 heads have been handed back by 14 countries, but around 500 are still in European museums, according to Te Papa. France’s cultural chiefs were sympathetic to the appeal but worried that this might set a worrying precedent for other artefacts such as Egyptian mummies and the bones of early Christian martyrs. After a four-year wrangle, a law was passed last year that specifically approved the handover of the 20 Maori heads scattered in French museums.

Experts say it is possible that other heads remain in private collections.

Rich in colour and emotion, the ceremony saw four Maori women with head-dresses made of leaves take up seats at the four corners of a funeral bed covered in ferns. It climaxed a special exhibition on the Maori at the Quai Branly, a museum that focusses on the cultures of Asia, Oceania and Africa.

The museum is running in parallel an exhibition called “Human Zoos,” shedding light on touring shows in Europe that displayed Africans, Asians or Polynesians as primitive or savage. —AFP

Louvre’s Da Vinci restoration ignites art world row D

elicate work to restore a Leonardo Da Vinci masterpiece, to be unveiled in March, has turned into a headache for the Louvre, after experts accused the Paris museum of putting the precious oil work at risk. Da Vinci began painting “The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne” in 1503 and when he died in France in 1519 the unfinished work, depicting Christ beside his mother and grandmother with a sacrificial lamb, was acquired by King Francis I. Restoration carried out in the past century left the “Saint Anne” disfigured by stains, on the Virgin’s dress for instance, due to the ageing of a substance in the varnish and in 2010 the museum decided to restore the work once more. The “Saint Anne” is to be unveiled to the public in March as the highlight of a major exhibition built around it.

But the project hit a rock last autumn as critics warned that cleaning could damage the masterpiece, and two experts have since resigned in protest from the advisory committee set up to oversee the work.

Both are art world heavyweights: Segolene Bergeon Langle, who left in December, is a French

national heritage curator, while Jean-Pierre Cuzin who left in the autumn is former chief curator of the Louvre’s painting department. A French arts journal first sounded the alarm in October with an article entitled “Leonard in danger”. At stake was the type of solvent used to dissolve the yellowbrown coat of varnish covering the painting, deemed too harsh by critics who fear it could remove the actual paint.

Experts especially feared damage to the faces of Saint Anne and the Virgin Mary, and more broadly to the “sfumato”-layers of clear paint used

by Da Vinci to produce smoky, softened contours, on this work as on the “Mona Lisa”. Contacted by AFP last week, the curator Bergeon Langle said she left the advisory committee for several reasons. “I deemed that the restoration was not being carried out in line with what I imagined was necessary for this Louvre painting. That is my firm belief.”

Louvre insists ‘Saint Anne’ is not at risk One critical point was the question of whether to remove a white patch on the body of the baby Jesus. The museum’s chosen restorer Cinzia

Pasquali, who worked on the paintings of the Chateau de Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors, was convinced it was a patch of varnish, turned white by microscopic cracks, and wanted to remove it.

Bergeon Langle believed it may have been added

by Da Vinci’s own hand-and was wary of any intervention. Finally Vincent Pomarede, the head of the Louvre’s painting department, went ahead and green-lighted its removal after having it analysed.

“On that issue, we were in disagreement,” he told AFP this week. “But I have the laboratory results and they are conclusive. I was certain it was a cracked varnish, and you can see plainly from the final result that it is.”“I have no regrets,” said Pomarede, who has insisted the Louvre is not putting the work at risk. Last autumn the Louvre invited journalists to view the painting in the workshops of the French Museums’ Centre for Research and Restoration, the C2RMF, next to the Louvre, to defuse tensions. In 1994, the Louvre had to abandon an earlier plan to restore the “Saint Anne”, over fears for its delicate “sfumato”.

At the time, explained Pomarede, the Louvre did not have the technical know-how to protect

the work. Now, however, he said it was possible to measure the thickness of the varnish down to the last micron. On the subjects fragile faces, for example, the restorer left an extra thickness of varnish: 16 to 17 microns, against 8 to 12 microns elsewhere-and down from 30 to 35 microns previously. Early this month the scientific committee met and handed down a “positive verdict on the thinning of the varnish and the removal in places of additional layers of paint,” said Pomarede.

“Two or three experts even wanted to go further” including removing secondary tree trunks that are thought to have been added in the 19th century,” said Pomarede-who ruled to keep the trunks as they are. Since then the Louvre says tensions have simmered down with the dissenting experts. Pasquali is putting the finishing touches to the work but this phase of the work is all reversible unlike removing varnish, and “should be a more serene period,” Pomarede said. —AFP

A photo taken on January 31, 2010 shows British singer Seal and his wife, German top model Heidi Klum arriving on the red carpet at the 52nd Grammy Awards in Los Angeles. —AFP

Heidi Klum confirms split from Seal

G

erman-born supermodel Heidi Klum confirmed yesterday she was separating from her husband, British singer Seal, after seven years of marriage, her publicity agency said. “While we have enjoyed seven very loving, loyal and happy years of marriage, after much soulsearching we have decided to separate,” the agency said in a statement on behalf of the blonde runway star and reality television mogul. “We have had the deepest respect for one another throughout our relationship and continue to love each other very much, but we have grown apart. This is an amicable process and protecting the well-being of our children remains our top priority, especially during this time of transition.”

Media reports said at the weekend that Klum would file divorce papers in Los Angeles County Superior Court in the coming days due to “irreconcilable differences.” The couple married in 2005 and have three children together. Seal, best known for international hits such as “Kiss from a Rose” and “Crazy,” also adopted Klum’s daughter from a previous relationship with former Formula One boss Flavio Briatore.

“We thank our family, friends and fans for their kind words of support,” the agency said in the statement released by its Los Angeles-based office and confirmed by a spokeswoman for the company in Klum’s native Germany.

“And for our children’s sake, we appreciate you respecting our privacy.” Klum, 38, and Seal, 48, were famous for renewing their vows every year on their wedding anniversary. But the model raised eyebrows when she attended this month’s Golden Globes awards ceremony in Los Angeles without her husband. —AFP