13 Jan 2010

RI PT IO N BS C SU THE LEADING INDEPENDENT DAILY IN THE ARABIAN GULF

40 PAGES

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2010

Hundreds of Houthis, four Saudi soldiers slain in clashes

Hamas TV takes aim at Palestinian rivals with cartoons

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MOHARRAM 27, 1431 AH

NO: 14608

UK moves to ban controversial Islamist group

150 FILS

Champions Egypt off to winning start PAGE 20

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Amir reiterates importance of national unity

KUWAIT: Deputy premier for economic affairs Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahd Al-Sabah gestures at the National Assembly yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Govt blamed for aborted session Oil price ‘fantastic’

By B Izzak KUWAIT: The National Assembly failed to hold a special session yesterday to debate the government’s fiveyear development plan for lack of quorum and many MPs put the blame squarely on the government, which incidentally was the one that requested the session. Speaker Jassem Al-Khorafi first adjourned the session for half an hour and when he came back, there were only 32 MPs and no ministers, so he accordingly adjourned the session for another day.

Khorafi later told reporters that when he first adjourned the session, there were three ministers in the chamber but when he came back there were none. Under Kuwaiti law, no Assembly session can be held without the presence of at least one Cabinet minister. Af ter the session was adjourned, the government submitted another request to hold a substitute special session tomorrow. A similar request was also filed by a number of lawmakers. Khorafi then decided to call for the new session tomorrow.

The session was scheduled

to debate the government’s five-year plan which envisages spending at least KD 35 billion on a number of mega development projects until the fiscal year 2013/2014.

Deputy premier for economic affairs, minister of housing and development Sheikh Ahmad Fahd Al-Sabah issued an apology to the Kuwaiti people for what happened and recalled that it was the government who requested the session. The three Cabinet ministers were at the Assembly but all of them were outside the chamber.

Several MPs seized the opportunity to blast the government for the failure of the session. MP Abdulrahman AlAnjari said the “government disappointed everyone today because the development plan is one of the most vital issues and today should have been historical” in passing the plan.

MP Rola Dashti strongly criticized the government and said that 12 lawmakers signed a request to hold a new session tomorrow.

MP Maasouma Al-Mubarak said the failure to hold the session is an indication of the government’s incompetence, adding Continued on Page 14

KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace yesterday a number of Kuwaiti personalities to exchange views with them on the rulerruled relationship and topics of concern to the public. The Amir highlighted the importance of preserving national unity and coexistence, members of the audience said in separate statements to KUNA and Kuwait TV after the meeting.

“It is a long tradition for Kuwaiti rulers to meet representatives from across the social spectrum to mull ways of enhancing national unity,” former MP Fallah Mubarak Al-Hajraf said. “Today’s meeting has given a wonderful dimension to the relationships among Kuwaitis,” Al-Hajraf affirmed. Bader Abdulmohsen Al-Mukhaizim, a businessman, said: “It not unusual for HH the Amir to exchange visits or hold such friendly meetings with people from all walks of life because he acts as father or brother to everybody on various occasions. The Amir reaffirmed his keenness on exchanging views with representatives of the society on all issues of national concern,” he said.

On his part, Issa Abdullah Al-Othman, another businessman, said: “The friendly speech of the Amir gave all the audience a great momentum to pursue work for the prosperity and welfare of the homeland.” Bader Ahmad AlSharhan, also a businessman, said: “This is neither the first nor the last such meeting. HH the Amir urged for more efforts to strengthen national unity and nip in the bud the attempts of irresponsible elements to foment sedition,” he added.

Saleh Abdullah Al-Erifan said the meeting fell in the framework of amity and mutual respect which gather all members of the greater Kuwaiti family under the visionary leadership of the ruling Al-Sabah family. “HH the Amir’s talk during the meeting sent a sincere message to all Kuwaiti people and government to cement ties among all sectors of the society,” Al-Erifan added.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali Thanayan Al-Ghanim said the Amir promised to continue such meetings in order to further enhance national unity. Similarly, Issa Al-Mzeidi extolled Continued on Page 14

KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah meets local businessmen and personalities at Bayan Palace yesterday. — KUNA

Iran nuke scientist killed in bombing Tehran blames US, Israel • Slain man was Mousavi supporter TEHRAN: A leading Iranian nuclear scientist was murdered in Tehran yesterday in a rare bomb attack that the government quickly blamed on “mercenaries” in the pay of archfoes the United States and Israel. The daylight killing came amid an increasingly bitter standoff between Iran and world powers over Tehran’s controversial nuclear drive, which the West suspects is masking an atomic weapons program.

Massoud Ali Mohammadi, a particle physics professor at prestigious Tehran University, died when a bomb strapped to a motorcycle was triggered by remote control as he was getting into his car outside his home in northern Tehran, state media said and a senior official said. “One can see in preliminary investigations signs of evil by the triangle of the Zionist regime, America and their mercenaries in Iran in this terrorist Continued on Page 14

Israel ‘hazes’ Turkish envoy Turkey demands apology on eve of Barak visit ANKARA: Turkey summoned Israel’s ambassador to Ankara yesterday to demand an apology over the treatment of its own envoy to Tel Aviv as a row between the regional allies over a television drama series escalated.

While Israel’s media commended what it called the “hazing” of the Turkish ambassador on Monday, the deterioration in ties threatened to overshadow an upcoming trip to Ankara by Defence Minister Ehud Barak.

Israel’s ire had been sparked by last year’s

broadcast of an episode of the Turkish espionage drama, Valley of the Wolves, which the foreign ministry said depicted “Israel and Jews as baby-snatchers and war criminals”. In the episode, a Turkish secret agent storms an Israeli diplomatic mission to rescue a Turkish boy kidnapped by Mossad and then brushes off accusations of war crimes as hypocritical.

Israeli media highlighted the fact that Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Continued on Page 14

KUWAIT: The Interior Ministry said yesterday all foreigners seeking to apply for temporary residency must bring criminal records certified by the official authorities of their countries.

Director of Hawally Governorate Immigration Col Talal Ibrahim Marafi, in a press statement, affirmed the refusal of granting residency to those who have entry visas, as stipulated by articles 24, 22, 20, 19 and 18, and added foreign residency applicants must bring their criminal records.

Marafi said this decision will benefit homeland security, adding that the Security Media Department at the Ministry of Interior carried out campaigns through the print and audio-visual media to publicize the new terms for residency in the country. Criminal records must be issued after the date of issuance of the visit visa for expatriates who came to Kuwait from countries other than their own, and certificates from their homeland should be valid for three months. He noted that the decision excludes people under the age of 18 for visitors on visas issued on the basis of article 22, adding that the decision is also applicable on those with government contracts. — KUNA

Brits held in Dubai for extramarital sex

TEHRAN: A man closes the door of the house of Iranian nuclear physics professor Massoud Ali Mohammadi (inset), who was killed after a bomb blast in front of his house in northern Tehran’s Qeytariyeh neighborhood yesterday. — AP

2003 Iraq invasion illegitimate: Probe

JERUSALEM: Israel’s Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon (left) meets with Turkish ambassador to Israel Ahmet Oguz Celikkol (right) on Monday.

Ayalon said the ambassador was pointedly seated on a sofa lower than his own chair. — AP

Criminal records a must for residency

THE HAGUE: The 2003 USled invasion of Iraq lacked legitimacy under international law, an independent commission probing Dutch political support for the still controversial war said yesterday.

“There was insufficient legitimacy under international law for a military invasion of Iraq” for which the Netherlands gave political but no military support, commission chairman Willibrord Davids told journalists in The Hague. The commission’s report said the Dutch government decision “was based mainly on international political considerations”.

And it said the Netherlands had wrongly interpreted UN Security Council resolution 1441, which gave Iraq a final chance to disarm, as authorising individual member states to use military force against that country. The 551-page report was presented to Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende, also head of government in 2003, who said he Continued on Page 14

DUBAI: Dubai police said yesterday they had found no evidence to support a British woman’s report that she was raped by a waiter in the Gulf Arab emirate, but have arrested her and her boyfriend for having sex outside marriage. The case is the second time in just over a year in which Britons have hit the headlines by falling foul of laws banning extra-marital sex in Dubai, a Muslim emirate popular with sun-seeking Western tourists and expatriates.

The woman, 23, and her British boyfriend, 44, were in Dubai as tourists when they reported to police that she had been raped by a Syrian waiter in the bathroom of a hotel bar, Khamis Al-Muzinah, deputy commander of the Dubai police,

told Reuters. “The police didn’t find any proof that anything happened in the bathroom,” Muzinah said.

The investigation found that the British woman had been very drunk and an Indian bartender had helped her find the toilets, where two female staff were present at the time, Muzinah said. She vomited several times and fell asleep on a chair before being escorted back to her boyfriend by one of the two female staff, he said.

During questioning the following day, the woman told police that she had been sharing a hotel room with her boyfriend and that they had had sex, which led to the couple being arrested.

Continued on Page 14

Saudi posing as pilot held at Manila airport

LONDON: An anti-war protestor burns a mask outside the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre as Alastair Campbell, a former advisor to Tony Blair, gives evidence at the Iraq Inquiry yesterday. — AFP

MANILA: A 19-year-old Saudi Arabian man dressed as a pilot was arrested yesterday after he illegally entered a restricted area in the main airport in the Philippines, an airport official said. “He was able to elude our security by misrepresenting himself as a pilot of Saudia,” said airport general manager Alfonso Cusi, referring to the Saudi Arabian flag carrier. The incident at Manila airport comes af ter officials in the Philippines and around the world said they would boost security after the botched attempt to blow up a USbound airliner on Christmas Day. The detained Saudi, identified by the local authorities as Hani Abdulelah Bukhari, told Continued on Page 14

MANILA: Saudi Hany Abdulelah Bukhari, still wearing a pilot’s uniform, gestures as he is interviewed at Manila’s international airport yesterday. — AP

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NATIONAL

KJA delegation meets minister

in the news

Arabs urged to support Sudan to achieve unity

Road expansion KUWAIT: The Ministry of Public Works recently signed an agreement with the Kuwait Municipality, the General Traffic Department and other directorates to proceed with the Fourth Ring Road expansion project. This includes connecting it with the other ring roads at an approximate cost of KD half a billion. These agreements were signed during a meeting in which participants agreed to reduce the time involved to execute the project, reported AlQabas. They agreed to retain the traffic light signals located at crossroads, in addition to preventing the sale of real-estate properties that overlooked the Ring Road. Furthermore, the Ministry will assign a consultant to devise a draft plan for the project.

Bedoon teachers KUWAIT: The Ministry of Education is making concerted efforts towards appointing bedoon teachers at public schools and fill up the shortage in teaching staff. Some ministry officials reportedly recommended exempting bedoon teachers from submitting two year work experience certificates, reported Annahar . They added that at least 700 bedoon applications were received so far..

KAC privatization KUWAIT: The Cabinet has called for finalizing on Kuwait Airways Corporation’s privatization plans before the end of February. This issue was presented at the Cabinet’s weekly meeting that was held this past Sunday. The ministers, led by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, discussed the various aspects related to the privatization process and KAC’s deteriorating condition in several fields.

The deadline had been previously set toward the end of December, reported Al-Qabas.

It was pushed forward by an additional two months enabling the Cabinet to hold more discussions.

Dashti lawsuit KUWAIT: MP Rola Dashti’s lawyer Abdul Kareem Bin Haidar has reportedly filed a case against MP Saadoun Hammad Al-Otaibi over Hammad’s false allegations accusing Dashti of profiteering and public fund misappropriation. Bin Haidar stressed that though his client fully believes in the Freedom of Speech guaranteed as an integral part of Kuwait’s Constitution, she will not tolerate its infringement in the name of democracy, reported Al-Rai. He added that freedom should be guaranteed provided no personal freedom is violated, and that he would take necessary legal procedures to defend his client’s reputation and integrity.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

KHARTOUM: Sudan yesterday urged Arab countries and peoples to support its efforts to achieve unity through holding a referendum on the future of the south on Jan 9, 2011, according to the peace agreement. Sudan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Al-Samani Al-Waseela said, in

KHARTOUM: The Kuwait Journalists Association delegation with Sudan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Al-Samani Al-Waseela. — Photo by KUNA

a meeting with a delegation from Kuwait Journalists Association (KJA) attended by Kuwait’s Ambassador to Sudan Dr Sulaiman Al-Harbi, that Sudan is going through the most dangerous phase in its history which is threatening its unity.

In the past few years, Sudan was under great external pressure, he said, adding that the Arab stance prevented it from yielding to the pressure and being divided to several countries, he said. He stressed that it was important to establish development projects in the south and to use media prior to the referendum, urging the Sudanese to end their differences and to put in mine the national interest not the interest of their parties.

Al-Waseela strongly criticized the stance of the international community in implementing the peace agreement between Sudan’s north and south, adding that the

international community knew that the agreement needed a large sum of money and promised to provide it at the time of the agreement signing, but did not do that and instead repeatedly said that the agreement was not implemented.

Moreover, the Americans said they would lift the economic sanctions imposed on Sudan after the agreement was signed, however they did not do that, but extended the sanctions, added new ones, and put pressure on foreign companies working in development and oil projects, the Sudanese minister pointed out.

Darfur crisis began as a struggle

between tribes on resources, he said, adding that external interference led the situation to turn to a confrontation between the government and rebels, he said.

He emphasized that Sudan’s government should take part in the upcoming negotiations with “an open mind and an open heart” to achieve peace. KJA’s delegation is headed by the association’s director general and financial director Adnan Al-Rashid and includes columnist Sami Al-Nisif, and KUNA’s managing editor Muna Shishter.

The delegation, which met a number of officials in Sudan, will be visiting Darfur and Marawi Dam in northern Sudan. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Global Investment House said it was optimistic about growth this year and signalled the worst is over, after shareholders gave the nod to its $1.7 billion debt plan yesterday. Global, which defaulted on most of its debt in Dec 2008, said it sees a “huge improvement” in its full-year 2009 earnings despite booking higher provisions in the fourth quarter, its managing director said. Global is one of the largest investment companies in the Gulf Arab state and was hit hard by the global financial crisis and its aftermath.

“In the last quarter, we had to take more provisioning and impairment (charges) in relation to some of our investments considering what has happened in Dubai and the effect it had on the region,” Maha Al-

Ghunaim said. Global has no direct exposure to Dubai’s debt troubles, she added.

Dubai shocked world markets on Nov 25 when it requested a standstill on $26 billion worth of debt owed by state-owned conglomerate Dubai World, a flagship of the emirate. “The losses (in 2009) have actually decreased substantially, so it looks like we are bottoming-out,” she told reporters after a shareholders meeting.

Global saw a full year loss in 2008 of KD 257.6 million ($899.7 million) mainly due to impairment charges for investments and loans, compared to a profit of KD 91.4 million in 2007. Earlier yesterday, Global’s shareholders approved a restructuring deal to transfer its main investments and real estate assets to two new units after the

firm reached a deal with creditors last month to reschedule $1.7 billion in debt.

Ghunaim also said that the firm is in talks on several asset sale transactions in Kuwait, Egypt and Jordan, but not as part of its debt settlement plan. The firm wants to focus on its core business and deleveraging the company, she said. Global said this week that it will use the proceeds from selling its stake in a Chinese firm as part of its debt settlement plan. “Global has succeeded to do a settlement and reduce costs... but there must be a follow up every quarter to avoid any surprises,” said Mustafa Behbehani, director at Gulf Consulting Co in Kuwait. Global also entered into new three-year facilities with each of its 53 lending banks.— Reuters

Busairi urges compliance with govt’s five-year plan Global optimistic about 2010 KUWAIT: At a meeting with senior Ministry of Communications (MoC) staff, communications minister Dr. Mohammad Al-Busairi reminded them of the importance of demonstrating their commitment to the government’s five-year plan and continuing with the vital projects underway there.

During the meeting, which was attended by ministry undersecretary Abdulmohsen Al-Muzaidi among others, several issues were discussed, including

the need to fill the vacant supervisory and department head posts.

Another subject under discussion was the development of the ministry’s Private Branch Exchange (PBX) department. A recommendation was also put forward during the meeting to reexamine the details of the tenders submitted for recently announced projects, including the railway and subway projects and the privatization of postal services.

Al-Busairi is reportedly

Afasi awaiting IOC reply on sports law amendments KUWAIT: Social Affairs and Labor Minister Dr Mohammed Al-Afasi is awaiting a response from International Olympic Committee (IOC) chairman Jacques Rogge to a letter outlining the proposed changes to Kuwait’s sports laws, which it is hoped would bring an end to the series of problems that have dogged Kuwaiti sports. The first reading of the legislative bill took place recently, reported AlJarida.

The recent crises over sports in Kuwait are worrying to all Kuwaitis, said Dr. Al-Afasi on Monday, stating, “Kuwait is committed to international treaties and

we have no choice other than to implement them or just practice sports domestically.” On another issue, the minister said that the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) is following up all complaints submitted by expatriate labors concerning their rights, adding that any complaints proven to be justified will be sent to court.

Dr. Al-Afasi said that the problems over non-payment of expatriate workers’ salaries are over since any company contracted by the public sector that fails to pay its employees their full wages will not be paid for its services until this is remedied.

working hard on the restructuring of the ministry departments after a previous reshuffle failed to achieve convincing results, according to local daily Al-Watan.

It has also been reported that the main reason behind the ministry’s failure to appoint undersecretaries is the Civil Service Commission’s (CSC) objections to the appointments given the lack of a clearly structured system and clear definitions of each undersecretary’s duties.

Students happy with questions Kuwait cracks down on reckless driving

KUWAIT: Tenth and eleventh grade school pupils continued their midterm exams on Monday, with the former being tested in Religious Studies, while the latter sat their Arabic Language exams.

Most of the pupils interviewed by Al-Qabas daily reported their satisfaction with the exams to date, saying that the papers were not too difficult and they had not faced serious problems in answering the questions.

On a related issue, the head of Hawally Education Directorate, Muna Al-Salaal, said that

20 vehicles had been allocated to transport exam papers to secondary schools across the area, with 13 of these serving state schools, while the other seven delivered papers to the private institutions.

Al-Salaal explained that a new strategy for the distribution and collection of exam papers had been introduced at schools across the country and was put into place from the first day of the exams, reported Al-Qabas. The senior education official added that the examination process is taking place in a smooth and orderly fashion.

KUWAIT: Police have raided a number of garages in Shuwaikh which have been illegally modifying cars for reckless young drivers to use as racing vehicles, arresting 12 garage staff and four of the young drivers in question.

The raids came as police in the area continued their crackdown on reckless driving, particularly on youngsters who modify cars to use as racing vehicles in several streets in different parts of Ahmadi. The vehicles are reportedly stored out of public view at Jakhours (livestock farms) in the Wafra area by the reckless drivers in order to avoid detection.

In the raids, officers found several vehicles that had reportedly been used for racing and performing driving stunts during the recent New Year’s Eve celebrations, which had been taken to the garages for resprays and other modifications to disguise their appearance.

The raids followed an investigation launched by

Brigadier General Abdulfatah Al-Ali, the head of the Ahmadi Security Department, after he received a tip-off about the garages’ illegal activities.

Thirty-three souped-up racing vehicles in total were found at two of the garages raided, with all having been furnished with false number plates and resprayed without the owners taking the necessary legal steps to carry out these modifications.

Twelve garage workers were taken into custody, while four youths who had turned up to collect their vehicles were also arrested.

All were referred to the relevant authorities and face charges including forgery.

Investigations are still ongoing to uncover the identity of all the confiscated vehicles’ owners, reported Al-Watan. Brig. Gen. Al-Ali has vowed to continue the crackdown and the pursuit of lawbreakers who risk the lives of the people of Ahmadi.

Bedoon ‘solution soon’ KUWAIT: Acting Director of the Kuwait Fire Services Directorate Brig.

Yousuf Al-Ansari attended a lecture on ‘Dealing with hazardous materials.’

It was delivered by Ahmadi Fire Director Lt Colonel Jamal Blaihees, as part of the training season to familiarize firemen with latest developments. Brig Al-Ansari presented Lt Col Blaihees with a memento in appreciation of his efforts.— Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun

KUWAIT: MP Faisal AlDuwaisan expressed hope that HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah had made ‘very promising’ indications over reaching a solution to solve bedoons’ issues.

He was speaking to the media after holding a meeting with HH the Amir and a number of MPs, reported Al-Watan.

Several pressing issues were discussed during the meeting, including the citizens’ debt write-off issue. MPs had hoped to elicit a promise from the Amir after reviewing the concerned draft law.

During the meeting, the Amir had assured officials that justice would be meted out to all citizens.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

NATIONAL

3 ‘Our main problem is NA corruption’

NGO heads slam MPs’ poor performance

By Ahmad Saeid

KUWAIT: Military personnel representing various units of the Kuwaiti Army at the start point of the annual army race that took place yesterday. — KUNA

New steps to improve police sport KUWAIT: The Head of the board for Police Sports Federation Maj Gen Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah asserted here yesterday, Kuwait’s interest in improving police sports and pushing forward its various activities and programs as a way of promoting the role of security in developing society.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah was speaking during his meeting with the head and members of the media committee for the First International Police Shooting Championship due on Feb 15, 2010 in Kuwait under the patronage of His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. Kuwait’s hosting of such special sports event asserts its prestigious position as a state and the significance of the championship itself.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf expressed his appreciation for the good gesture made by His Highness the Crown Prince on holding the First International Police Shooting Championship under his patronage, hoping that this will lead to it achieving more successes whether at the local or international levels.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah, also Assistant Undersecretary of the Interior Ministry for education and training affairs, expressed satisfaction at the approval expressed by His Highness the Crown Prince on sponsoring such championship.

Further, he asserted that such initiatives are not new to His Highness as he has a long

history of supporting sports and athletes.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf Al-Sabah who holds the post of the Vice-President of the championship’s Higher Organizing Committee revealed new activities will be held and surprises are in store for all participants and viewers, especially the opening ceremony that will be held in a different style by doing away with conventionality.

He went on to say that though the championship will last for five days.

Unprecedented arrangements have been made since last September, and reached top-level in order to ensure the championship is organized in a manner that befits both Kuwait and the championship’s sponsor. These high-level arrangements will also reflect the reality of the Kuwaiti police sport at the Gulf, Arab and world levels.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf also extended his thanks and appreciation for His Highness Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah for the Cabinet’s approval of the championship and allocating a budget for it.

He also extended thanks to Minister of Interior Lieutenant-General (retired) Sheikh Jaber Al-Khaled Al-Sabah for the great attention he paid toward the championship by facilitating all its procedures since its initial announcement, and approving all action plans related to this international event.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf also expressed his gratitude towards undersecretary of the Interior Ministry’s Lieutenant-General

Ahmad Al-Rajeeb in his capacity as President of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the championship for his keenness on making the championship a success and pledging his moral and financial support.

He added that Lieutenant-General Rajeeb, Interior Ministry officials and representatives of the financial ministry played a significant role and spared no effort in implementing all the demands made by the committee whether at the daily, weekly or monthly level.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Nawaf also stressed the significance of the media institutions with all its kinds in highlighting the championship in a way that befits Kuwait and its position through first-hand reporting.

Furthermore, he said that mass media represents the championship’s basis. It is an indispensable tool, pointing out that media is the main indicator of the success of any championship.

Meanwhile, Head of the championship’s Media Committee Lieutenant Colonel Walid Al-Ghanim touched upon what has been achieved by the media’s working team. He concluded with saying that work is to officially start at the beginning of next February and that the plan of reporting the championship’s events and competitions will be put into effect in cooperation with heads of the sports departments in local newspapers, the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), the Radio and TV and specialized websites. — KUNA.

KUWAIT: A number of Kuwaiti NGO representatives have criticized MPs, accusing the parliamentarians of neglecting important issues and using their votes in the NA only to pass popular legislation that will ensure their

reelection, despite not actually believing in these laws’ legitimacy themselves. The NGO representatives were speaking during a media forum seminar held in Yarmouk on Monday evening to address the performance of the country’s NGOs and the difficulties they face in their work.

Saleh Al-Ghazali, the head of the Kuwait Transparency Society (KTS), said that since 2003 Kuwait has plunged from 35th to 66th position globally in Transparency International’s annual Corruption Perceptions Index.

“Seven years after Kuwait signed the UN anti-corruption treaty, none of its article is yet implemented in practice,” AlGhazali complained.

The KTS head accused MPs of passing legislation that suits the interests of their voters, even if they themselves are not convinced that these laws are right.

“The majority of MPs who supported the recently passed interest write-off law, don’t know anything about law or about its possible consequences,” he asserted, adding, “I’d even go as far as saying that if you ask each one of them in person he will tell you that he is not convinced this is the right way to tackle this subject, and that the only reason they are doing it is the pressure placed upon them by their voters.”

Al-Ghazali further claimed that corruption in the National Assembly is the biggest problem Kuwait faces.

“The legislative and monitoring authority of the country is drowned in corruption, followed by the executive authority; people don’t respect the law because they know they can get away with it, while we see that the same person who violates the law in Kuwait are obeying all the laws when he travels abroad, because he knows that [in other countries] there is a law that will punish him,” he

number of problems in Kuwait, including freedoms in general, women’s political and social rights, bedoons, and expat labor’s rights.

Al-Tamimi asserted that MPs often don’t truly grasp the importance of these issues.

“The recently passed labor law does not provide any coverage for house domestic workers,” he pointed out. “We do have a problem in this regard in Kuwait, and I’m disappointed that instead of objectively looking into the problem, the Kuwaiti government took a defensive position after the US Department of State issued a report, that wasn’t very posi-

KUWAIT: Panel of speakers, (from left to right) Saleh Al-Ghazali, Amer AlTamimi, Hussain AbdulRahman and Umar Al-Eisa. — Photo by Ahmad Saeid said.

Umar Al-Eisa, the head of Kuwaiti Lawyers Association also criticized the proposed debt law claiming that it contains article that cannot be implemented due to legal and financial considerations. AlEisa said that Kuwaiti lawyers face a number of issues that need to be solved, one of which is the merging of the Sharia and Law colleges, which he said has resulted in the existence of practicing lawyers who have never studied at a law institute.

Amer Al-Tamimi, the head of the Kuwait Human Rights Society (KHRS), said that the society is concerned about a

tive about Kuwait regarding human trafficking.”

Al-Tamimi also noted that the UN’s Human Rights Council could hold Kuwait accountable in May of this year if the issue of bedoons’ rights is not resolved.

The KHRS head also expressed misgivings about the proposed amendment to the multimedia legislation, “The proposed law conflicts with international trends towards expanding freedom of expression. It places more restrictions on journalists,” he said, calling on MPs, journalists, and the public to oppose these amendments.

NATIONAL

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Slovenian president meets KU students

Terrorist acts violation of human rights: Turk

KUWAIT: Slovenian President Danilo Turk shakes hands with Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr Moudhi Al-Humoud before his lecture at Kuwait University. —Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Slovenian President woos Kuwaiti investors

By Ben Garcia KUWAIT: The world is recovering from a severe economic downturn and the worst recession since World War II is nearly over. With this conviction, Slovenian President Danilo Turk invited Kuwaiti businessmen to invest in Slovenia during his visit yesterday to the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI). He was accompanied by a group of Slovenian businessmen and two of his cabinet ministers.

“Kuwait is not as severely affected by [the global recession],” started Turk, “but Slovenia was, just like any other members of the European Union. We are an export oriented economy, so we cannot deny the fact that we were affected,” he said. According to President Turk the recession is nearly over and Slovenia’s economy is starting to prosper once again.

“We have to look for new opportunities and full cooperation between public and private sec-

tors. The growth period has started. It will be slow but steady, and for business communities it means opportunities,” President Turk said.

Slovenia is ready to offer investment opportunities in the area of infrastructure and in the development of various logistical centers. “Slovenia is a member of the Eurozone, which is considered the most stable financial area in the world,” he noted. “The Eurozone remains financially stable until today.”

Slovenia, according to President Turk, values the support of their export driven economy. “The good news is that a person would be simply investing in a stable environment. Investing in Slovenia is a real opportunity,” he reiterated. Slovenia and Kuwait share many special features such as small populations with a high level of prosperity.

“People in both countries have a strong desire for great opportunities,” he pointed out.

Slovenia is strategically located in central Europe and

borders the countries of Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Ukraine and Poland.

“We would like to take advantage of our geographic location and provide investment opportunities in logistics and infrastructure,” Turk said. “We have several opportunities available in the financial sector and our capital has become the financial center for some countries in Europe. We would like to expand our growth and be a place where people can come together,” he said.

Slovenia was recently appointed to be the host country for the EU’s Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators.

According to President Turk, the agency will be located in the Slovenian capital, Ljubljana. “This new development will allow the Slovenian capital to become a center for all energy issues,” he said.

Slovenia is expected to become a transit country for a major gas pipeline from Russia to southern Europe and France. “As the

president of Slovenia I have to think about this matter, not just in terms of commercial opportunities or financial rewards, but also in terms of strategic development,” he added. “Global energy development calls for stronger multilateral cooperation.”

President Turk admitted that Slovenia has a limited amount of trade between other countries but said that it is growing. “Our trade relations are very modest and we have to expand,” he stressed.

KCCI Chairman Thunayan Al-Ghanim welcomed and thanked President Turk for his visit. He stressed that cooperation in the financial and investment sectors will only advance if the two countries enter a joint venture to enhance economic progress. “The foreign trade volume between our two countries is not at the best level, but it seems to be improving at a promising rate,” Al-Ghanim noted. “This should encourage us to double our efforts.”

KUWAIT: Terrorist acts are violations of human rights, visiting Higher Education Dr Moudhi Al-Humoud, KU Rector Dr. Slovenian President Danilo Turk said yesterday in a lecture Abdullah Al-Feheid and Dean of the School of Law Dr Bader delivered at Kuwait University (KU) School of Law. “I have Jassem Al-Yaqoub, as well as the delegation accompanying him. always countered the term ‘war on terror’, I am also very critical Regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, especially after the 33of the so-called act of rendition, as practicing it by a number of day war on Gaza early in 2009, Turk said “to put it very simply, European countries nowadays is wrong,” Turk told attendees of I am against violations of humanitarian law, as I am all for a twothe lecture, spearheaded by Minister of Education and Minister state solution to solve the conflict.” whom we are very well acquainted but with Slovenia, as far as humanitarian aspect is whom we have to work more.” concerned in this regard, offered to treat He noted that his country’s relations injured Palestinians at its famous rehabilitawith Kuwait dated back to the days of fortion centers in Ljubljana, as the most affected mer Yugoslavia, where many Slovenians by such tragedy were children, and the working in the health, energy and finance Slovenian initiative came to alleviate their sectors, among others, cooperated with suffering, Turk said, addressing law stutheir Kuwaiti counterparts. dents.

Turk said that while his country had “We know that this is not a substitute to a been very focused on the EU in the past political solution, yet, we have to work on years, it was not expanding the scope of its both fronts; humanitarian to aid the most vulcooperation, “and we would like to ensure nerable that are children, and political, in that the level of cooperation of Slovenia and order to reach a solution; and in this case it is Kuwait is appropriate.” a two-state one,” he pointed out. The lecture He congratulated Kuwait for hosting the took place at Othman Abdulmalik Al-Saleh’s 30th Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Theater of the School of Law at KU. Council (GCC), which he said received “a Titled “Democracy, Human Rights and lot of very positive reactions around the Dialogue among Civilizations”, President world.”

Turk said the title of the lecture is so generTurk underscored the “progress” that al, yet so profound in meaning. “In my per- KUWAIT: Slovenian President was being made by the GCC and the spective, we live in an era of globalization, as Danilo Turk speaking at the “important ideas for the political future of it is influenced by economy, technology, Kuwait University School of Law this part of the world, including such areas communication and security... But politically which are of importance to the European speaking, we cannot say that we live in an yesterday. integrated world, as in many parts of the The Slovenian President, at the end of the Union, for example, movement towards a world, democratic means are not practiced, lecture, was gifted by Minister Al-Humoud free trade agreement between the GCC and the EU.” yet force is,” he said. with a commemorative plaque.

As for Kuwaiti-Slovenian relations, he Power and sovereignty of individual Born on February 19, 1952, Turk had states are dominating the global political served as UN Assistant Secretary-General said that this visit would be a very good scene nowadays, the visiting president said, for Political Affairs. And in 2005, he opportunity to discuss the possibility of noting that democracy can take many forms returned to Slovenia, becoming professor of establishing “new, firm and lasting partnerdepending on the country’s political system. international law and dean of student affairs ships in various areas.”

One example, he noted, is the new infraHe said that corruption is always seen as at the Faculty of Law of the University of a natural upshot of not practicing democracy, Ljubljana. He became the third president of structure, logistics and development projects in Slovenia, which may be interesting for yet it can also occur in many democratic Slovenia on December 23, 2007. states, and at many levels, and that is why Turk and the delegation accompanying Kuwaitis seeking “long-lasting and stable democratic systems must cope with such him arrived in Kuwait last Monday for a revenue.”

Slovenia, he noted, is a member of the fact. two-day official visit, where he met and Turk, who has an MA with a thesis on held talks with His Highness the Amir Eurozone and is located in a very stable part minority rights and a PhD on the principle of Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah of Europe “which is likely to produce longterm, stable development, one that is a very non-intervention in international law, added and senior government officials. the first requirement for a democratic change The visit also resulted in signing two ideal area for investment in the future.”

He said that his country has a “very forin any county is to ensure personal integrity agreements between the State of Kuwait and security, hence it is not possible to apply and the Republic of Slovenia; one on avoid- ward-looking approach in mind, and we are democracy if a person’s wellbeing is at stake ing double taxation, and the other on eco- looking forward to an ambitious exchange of views, both bilateral and at the economic at any level. nomic and technical cooperation.

The second requirement, according to the Earlier, Dr Turk hoped that his current level.”

Asked about tourism, the president said Slovenian president, is respect of freedom of visit to Kuwait would help launch a “fullexpression, assembly and establishment of fledged” era of cooperation in different that it would feature in talks, especially as he was accompanied by a group of represenassociations, as well as full political rights, fields with this “old friend” of his country. with cultural and moral codes being considIn an interview with Kuwait Television tatives of the tourism industry who were ered when introducing democracy to politi- and KUNA, the Slovenian president eager to meeting with their counterparts cally-developing countries. described Kuwait as an “old friend with here. —KUNA

Kuwaiti students Illegal international phone hurt in accident call center busted in Sharq KUWAIT: On their way from school, five Kuwaiti students were injured, when the sports utility vehicle (SUV) they were riding in overturned on a street in Rawda near the local co-op.

Police and paramedics responded to the emergency and brought the injured to Amiri Hospital.

Two of the injured remain in critical condition. A case has been opened at the local police station to investigate the incident.

Arrests Kuwait City police discovered two separate places being used for illegal activity in the governorate. After raiding a place used by two Asians in Salhiya to make alcohol they found another location being used by Asians to operate an illegal international phone call center. The lawbreakers were arrested and their equipment, as well as 150 bottles of liquor, were confiscated in the operation.

Fire

KUWAIT: Comoros investment forum in progress yesterday.

Investing in the Comoros ‘safe, easy and not risky’ KUWAIT: Opening the Comoros investment forum here yesterday, President Ahmad Abdullah Sambi of the island nation urged Kuwaiti and Arab investors to invest in his country.

Investing in the Comoros is safe, easy and not risky in any way, he told those present for the first day of the two-day forum, stressing the major changes introduced in his country’s investment environment in favor of investors.

President Sambi emphasized that his country offers ample opportunities to foreign investors and opens the door

wide for them to pursue any lucrative investment openings they seek, with the full support of the country’s government.

The Comorosian leader asserted that it makes sense to invest in his country at this juncture, since it is a location where opportunities and easy terms abound and offers a viable alternative to investing elsewhere in a world, especially in those places recently been battered by a relentless economic downturn.

He assured the forum of his nation’s appreciation of the support it receives from Kuwait and from other Arab, and Islamic countries.

Another speaker at the opening ceremony, Abdullah Saud Al-Humaidhi of the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce, stressed that the Kuwaiti private sector seeks to take the lead in supporting economic activities in the Comoros, in view of the many incentives it has recently introduced for foreign investors wishing to enter the Comoros market place.

Expressing his great satisfaction at Kuwait’s hosting of the forum, Al-Humaidhi was upbeat about its potential results, which he envisioned as benefiting both nations. —KUNA

Firefighters from the Qurain fire brigade put out a fire at a home in Al-Thahar. The fire caused severe material damage put firefighters were able to control the flames before they could spread further. Paramedics were present at the scene but no injuries were recorded in the incident. An investigation was started to determine the cause of the blaze.

ATV thieves held Jahra police arrested a gang of youngsters who were stealing allterrain vehicles (ATV) from their owners at knifepoint. The arrests occurred after police received several reports regarding ATV thefts. The thieves were caught in possession of the stolen vehicles and were taken to authorities.

escaping from the house. The son brought a medical report to the Sabah Al-Salem police station and filed a case for investigation.

Maids raped A maid recently informed police in Hawally that she had been held captive and raped by her sponsor. She reported that she escaped after being sexually assaulted by him and his two friends in her sponsor’s apartment. She explained that the sponsor brought her to his apartment after she requested to be relieved from her job as a maid to his family’s home in Kaifan. A case was opened and the sponsor is being summoned for investigations.

Meanwhile, a maid reported being raped by her employer, a Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) citizen. She reported that after hiring her from a housemaid recruitment agency he brought her to an apartment belonging to a friend of his in Al-Nugra instead of his family’s home.

After he assaulted her the maid escaped from the apartment while he tried to convince her to return with him to his family’s home. A case was opened and police are searching for the rapist.

Sexual assault A father filed a missing persons report at the Al-Subahiya police station after his son disappeared from home. His son returned the following day and informed his father that he was kidnapped and raped by his own friend at a camp site in Al-Julaiah.

Police were informed of the situation and discovered that the rapist was already wanted for previous cases of drinking, kidnap and theft. Investigations are ongoing in pursuit of the kidnapper.

Youngster dies House dispute A fight occurred between a Kuwaiti woman and her Ethiopian house maid in Um AlHaiman. During the fight the citizen suffered a broken nose and lower jaw fractures while the maid also sustained several broken bones. The woman was taken to Adan Hospital by her son. The maid was taken to the same hospital after being picked up after

A young man was found dead in a stable in Jahra where he was staying with a group of his friends.

Friends discovered the young man had died after failing to wake him. Paramedics responded to the emergency call and announced him dead after a brief medical examination. Criminal investigators were called to examine the situation and determine the cause of death.

By Hanan Al-Saadoun KUWAIT: The Capital City police department uncovered an illegal international phone call center in Sharq. The find of this particular operating center is considered to be the largest illegal phone call operation bust yet. The criminals who set up the center used the entire basement of a building and built private phone booths. The three Indian criminals who ran the center were arrested and it was discovered that one of them was wanted for an absconding case. They were referred to the proper authorities.

The Capital Governorate Security Director, Major General Tariq Hamada, received information regarding the centers location and the illegal activities taking place there. A team was asked to investigate the case and an undercover agent confirmed the illegal activity by infiltrating the call center. Police officers confiscated 40 deciphering systems, 40 routers, 50 communications system, 12 DCL systems, 45 timers and several computers.

Ministry of Communications technicians were called in to cut the lines, and the suspects were sent to the police station.

There, they confessed to operating the center and profiting from the illegal activity. They were then referred to investigators for further questioning.

Road accidents A 47-year-old Kuwaiti man suffered head and leg injuries, while two male Kuwaiti teenagers, aged 17 and 13, sustained various injuries, in a car crash on the Maghreb Expressway heading towards Kuwait City. All were rushed to Mubarak Hospital.

In a separate incident, a 24-

KUWAIT: The international phone calls theft gang in custody. —Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun year-old Kuwaiti man was taken to Amiri Hospital after sustaining injuries to his right hand and knee in a crash near the Faiha Bridge on Damascus Street heading towards South Surra.

In another accident, this time in Rigga, an 18-year-old Kuwaiti man and a Syrian woman of the same age sustained various injuries. Both were taken to Mubarak Hospital.

Meanwhile, a 25-year-old Syrian man sustained injuries to his right leg, while a 22-year-old female compatriot suffered injuries to her mouth and right hand in a crash near the Amghara Bridge in Jahra. Both were taken to Jahra Hospital.

In another incident, a 60-

year-old compatriot was rushed to Amiri Hospital after being knocked down while trying to cross a street in Sharq.

Babies sick Two two-year-old babies were rushed to Mubarak Hospital from their home in Hawally on Monday night after suffering from apparent food poisoning.

Ladder fall A 22-year-old Bangladeshi expatriate was rushed to Adan Hospital after suffering a suspected fracture to his right wrist when he fell from a ladder while working on a building at the Nuwaiseeb border.

Kuwait may lower drug prices KUWAIT: The Ministry Of Health (MoH) may slash prices on all medicines in pharmacies by 45%. The distributor could benefit from a 24 percent reduction while allowing pharmacists to trim prices by 21 percent. Officials said that the move will be approved after reviewing a current study,

reported Awan.

At present, distributors enjoy high profits mostly owing to the regulations stipulated in the ministerial decree passed in 1992. The health minister aims to lower drug prices in Kuwait and place it on par with prevailing GCC standards.

NATIONAL

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

5 Engineers ready to volunteer, supervise

Development project launched in Rawda

By Nisreen Zahreddine KUWAIT: The newly launched ‘Area Development’ project aims at developing parks and public areas in Rawda. It will be then implemented at other areas, especially since Municipality has set aside a budget for social, environ-

KUWAIT: HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (center) receives the Head of the Political Bureau of Hamas Khaled Meshaal (right) at Bayan Palace yesterday. Also seen is HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (left). — KUNA

Family, Globalization Conference ‘a success’ KUWAIT: Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor Mohammad AlKandari praised yesterday the issues discussed at the “Family and Globalization” Conference which wrapped up its sessions yesterday.

Al-Kandari said that the issues discussed during the conference were economic changes, debts and their impact on the Gulf families “especially as we are suffering the current financial crisis which is a heated subject at the political arena.”

He pointed to the importance of the paper presented by Dr Anisa Fakhro on the impact of globalization on culture in the Bahraini family, adding that the Gulf societies are similar in nature of life and the variables, pointing to the importance of the subject of satellite channels and their impact on the family. He said that solutions have been made for these issues.

In addition he explained that all researches that were presented at the conference were “worthwhile”, with positive alterna-

tives put forward in order to make some sort of a balance, noting to the significance of enacting legislation to control the satellite channels, saying that the family is in need for an official governmental body to assist it exercise such control.

He hoped such recommendations that will emerge from the conference be implemented with the need to establish a committee to follow-up this matter, in addition to organizing workshops for family support. — KUNA

Al-Kharafi receives former Iraqi PM, envoy of Uganda

KUWAIT: The Minister of Public Works and Minister for Municipal Affairs Dr. Fadhel Safar signed two contracts valued at KD 3 million yesterday.

They have been designed to improve Hawally governorate’s public utilities system. The first contract will provide 24-hour operation and maintenance services while the second will help set up small construction networks and public maintenance for roads and parking lots. — KUNA

in the news Child heart, chest diseases KUWAIT: A senior Chest Disease Hospital consultant has revealed that Kuwait has above-average rates of congenital heart and chest disease, although these have fallen in recent years. Announcing the Ministry of Health’s decision to turn the hospital’s pediatric unit into an independent department specializing in treating sick children, Dr. Amira Al-Hai, the hospital’s senior pediatric and pre-natal cardiac consultant, said that Kuwait’s rates of congenital heart and chest disease were within the normal range prior to the Iraqi invasion of 1990, but tripled or quadrupled thereafter. According to local daily Al-Jarida, Dr. Al-Hai said that although the rate has since fallen to around two or three cases in every 100 births, it is still higher than average.

Court rejects killer’s appeal KUWAIT: The Appeals Court has upheld the death sentence passed on a Pakistani expatriate for the murder of his mistress, also Pakistani, who he killed when she threatened to tell his wife about their affair. In another case, the Criminal Court has found the senior Ministry of Interior military officer accused of forgery and bribery in assessing driving test applications not guilty, along with the other accused in the case.

Al-Regaei sewage plant KUWAIT: The new Al-Regaei sewage treatment project and its corresponding power plant have been ordered by the Ministry of Public Works to be further studied and tested. The Ministry wants to ensure the safety of the project before furthering development on the project to avoid situations similar to last year’s Mishref sewage treatment incident. The Ministry Deputy Assistant for the Sewage Engineering Sector, Khalid Al-Khazzi, indicated that all construction on the project is completely finished, reported Al-Watan. He added that the decision was made to lessen the likelihood of any future accidents. The total cost of the project has been increased to around KD 70 million after an additional KD 10 million was included to relocate and merge the plant with a preexisting one. The project includes a pumping station, an administration building and a services building. The total occupied area for the project is now 420 thousand square meters and is expected to contain 778 thousand square meters of sewage on a daily basis. The plant will support a comprehensive odor treatment system and a power plant that will house reserve diesel generators. It will be able to handle sewage from 26 different pumping stations. This project comes as part of the Ministry’s goal to overhaul to the country’s sewage services and cope with the projected population increase until 2050.

Main cause of fires KUWAIT: Acting General Director of the Fire Department, Brigadier Yousuf Al-Ansari, said that the fire department has proposed several suggestions to limit the causes of fires in private residence and commercial organizations. He mentioned that faulty electric wiring is one of the main causes of fires, reported Al-Anba.

KUWAIT: The National Assembly’s Speaker Jassem Mohammad Al-Kharafi received yesterday the former Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim AlJaafari and his accompanying delegation. A subsequent meeting that was held was attended by deputies Mubarak AlKhurainej, Saleh Ashour and the protocol companion of the senior guest, Director of Coordination and Follow-up in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Khaled Maghames. During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations shared between the two countries and ways to strengthen these ties. AlKharafi stressed the need for more connectivity between the two countries, affirming Kuwait’s interest in Iraq’s security and stability.

Al-Kharafi refuted some ‘irresponsible statements,’ that were made by some parties intended to harm the brotherly peoples of the two countries.

Al-Kharafi also met with the envoy of the President of the Republic of Uganda, Hussein Salman Qiango. — KUNA

Al-Sedani explained that some stake holders from Rawda co-operative society will provide funding for the project. She expressed hope that the project would not stir up political controversy and highlighted the present situation of the country’s public gardens and streets in Rawda’s residential area.

MP Naji Abdul Hadi emphasized the importance of supporting such ventures. On behalf of the Kuwait Engineers Society, he announced that all engineers were ready to volunteer and supervise the execution of all

mental, and cultural development. Nouriya Al-Sedani, a political activist launched the project at Rawda on Monday, in the presence of MP Naji Abdul Hadi, Vice President of Kuwait Engineers Society, and Al-Yarmouk Mayor Abdul Aziz Al-Mashari, and Mohammad AlSanousi.

infrastructure-related work in the country.

He addressed residents and said that the medical center project can be accomplished if the concerned bodies display more cooperation.

Al-Yarmouk Mayor Abdul Aziz AlMashari spoke about Al-Yarmouk Municipality’s experience in serving the residents of the area. The next speaker, Mohammad Al-Sanousi spoke about prevailing negative attitude towards such campaigns. He added that when the issue concerns human beings, it should be treated in

a serious manner. “ Kuwaiti citizens should have morals instilled in them, including proper culture and education,” he said.

Al-Sanousi added that team work and innovation are essential, and that many activities follow the political path to support vested interest groups. “Rawda is home to eight former ministers and we should think about benefitting from this fact,” he said. AlSanousi concluded by saying that the project launched in Rawda is more important than the work undertaken by any parliamentary committee.

Freedom House brands ME ‘most repressive’ KUWAIT: The Middle East remained the most repressive region in the world, and some countries that had previously moved forward slipped back from Partly Free into the Not Free category, says an independent watchdog organization that supports democratic in a report released yesterday.

According to the report, Kuwait has kept its ‘partly free’ status.

For the fourth consecutive year, global declines in freedom outweighed gains in 2009, as measured by Freedom House’s annual survey of political rights and civil liberties, Freedom in the World 2010. This represents the longest continuous period of decline for global freedom in the nearly 40-year history of the report.

Repression in Iran led to score declines, and other countries in the region suffered a number of setbacks. Jordan, Bahrain, and Yemen were all downgraded from Partly Free to Not Free. Declines were also noted in Morocco and the Palestinian Territories. Lebanon and Iraq registered improve-

ments, Freedom House said in the summary to the report.

In a year marked by intensified repression against human rights defenders and civic activists, declines for freedom were registered in 40 countries in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and the former Soviet Union, representing 20 percent of the world’s total polities. Authoritarian states including Iran, Russia, Venezuela, and Vietnam became more repressive. Declines in freedom also occurred in countries that had registered positive trends in previous years, including Bahrain, Jordan, Kenya, and Kyrgyzstan.

“The news for 2009 is cause for real concern,” said Arch Puddington, Freedom House Director of Research. “The decline is global, affects countries with military and economic power, affects countries that had previously shown signs of reform potential, and is accompanied by enhanced persecution of political dissidents and independent journalists. To make matters worse, the most power-

ful authoritarian regimes have become more repressive, more influential in the international arena, and more uncompromising.”

Published since 1972, Freedom in the World examines the ability of individuals to exercise their political and civil rights in 194 countries and 14 territories around the world.

The survey analyzes developments that occurred in 2009 and assigns each country a freedom status-Free, Partly Free, or Not Free-based on a scoring of performance on key indicators.

In this year’s findings, five countries moved into Not Free status, and the number of electoral democracies declined to the lowest level since 1995.

Sixteen countries made notable gains, with two countries improving their overall freedom status. The most significant improvements in 2009 occurred in Asia.

This year’s findings reflect the growing pressures on journalists and new media, restrictions on freedom of association, and repression aimed at civic

activists engaged in promoting political reform and respect for human rights.

“In 2009, we saw a disturbing erosion of some of the most fundamental freedoms-freedom of expression and associationand an increase in attacks on frontline activists in these areas,” said Jennifer Windsor, Executive Director of Freedom House. “From the brutal repression on the streets of Iran, to the sweeping detention of Charter 08 members in China and murders of journalists and human rights activists in Russia, we have seen a worldwide crackdown against individuals asserting their universally accepted rights over the last five years.” The number of countries designated by Freedom in the World as Free in 2009 stands at 89, representing 46 percent of the world’s 194 countries and 46 percent of the world population. The number of Partly Free countries declined to 58, or 30 percent of all countries assessed by the survey, comprising 20 percent of the world’s total population.

6

NATIONAL

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

A dream come true: Al-Afasi

New Labor Law set to introduce big changes KUWAIT: The new private sector Labor Law, which is set to introduce sweeping changes to employment in this sector, is shortly to be published in the official government gazette before taking effect. The law’s 150 articles, divided into seven sections, have been described by the Social Affairs and

kuwait digest

Questions about the Group of 35 MPs he action which saw 35 MPs from different constituencies, parties and tendencies unite in favor of adopting the draft law to write off the interests on citizens’ loans, needs to be reconsidered, writes Mohammed Humoud Al-Hajri in Al-Qabas newspaper.

This improbable alliance has caused skeptics to question whether these MPs’ alliance was not really meant for the public interest.

This group of 35 MPs includes eight MPs from the first constituency, four from the second, three from the third, 10 from the fourth and 10 from the fifth.

While we cannot understand the full support of the fourth and fifth constituency MPs for the draft law, we can at least conclude that their support came not from their own sat-

T

isfaction with it, but rather came in response to pressure from their voters.

That said, how are we to interpret the support of eight first constituency members for the draft law, given their extensive political experience in the parliamentary field? And what’s the reason for their changing their usual stance that was known to be balanced?

As for the MPs from the second and third constituencies, it’s safe to assume that the agendas behind their support of the draft law are clear, principally in seeking to cancel the interest on loans.

So what message is this group of 35 MPs seeking to convey?

This arrogant and chaotic abuse of legislative roles will cause no improvement to an already dead draft

Al-Meel and Al-Blushi with the captains of the competing teams.

law, while on the other hand it could negatively affect the parliament as an entity.

This effect may not necessarily be in the form of a parliamentary dissolution as some people fear, or a suspension of the parliamentary process as the enemies of democracy hope, but it could be in the form of destroying the legislative role of the parliament to achieve different agendas for the 35 MPs through forcing the adoption of an unconstitutional, unprofessional and inapplicable draft law.

Are we willing to sacrifice the legislative role of the parliament only to deliver a political strike against the cabinet, which would ultimately result in more agony for insolvent citizens who would still be left waiting for their problems to be resolved?

The first section of the new legislation contains six articles outlining the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor’s (MSAL) role in implementing the law and listing those it will apply to, namely all private sector employees apart from domestic staff.

The second section contains three sub-sections on recruitment, apprenticeship and professional training. It calls for the establishment of a public authority for manpower, which would control and supervise the importation of expatriate workers and their recruitment. The new legislation also prohibits employers from recruiting foreign workers without first receiving official approval.

Another of the legislative articles bans employers from employing children under 15, unless they are given specific permission to do so by the MSAL beforehand and the under-age workers are employed in non-hazardous positions for no more than six hours a day, to include a one-hour break.

Article 22 of the new law bans women from working between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM, with the

Labor Minister Dr. Mohammed Al-Afasi as a “dream come true,” which “marks a new beginning in worker-employer relations.” It includes the mandatory granting of holidays and redundancy pay, as well as giving workers the right to transfer from one sponsor to another.

only exceptions being those employed in hospitals and private clinics, reported Al-Rai. Another clause grants pregnant private sector employees a fully paid maternity leave period of 70 days, which will not be deducted from other holidays which they are due. New mothers will also be entitled, should they request it, to a four-month vacation period after giving birth, with those breastfeeding their babies being granted a two-hour period during official working hours for feeding their baby. Employers, meanwhile, are to be mandated to provide kindergarten facilities for female employees’ young children if the number of employees totals more than 50.

Another article of the new legislation states that all labor contracts will be in triplicate, with one copy being retained by the employer, while another is to be given to the worker and a third will be sent to the MSAL. The contracts will have to include details of the contract duration, salary and date of commencement. Contracts are to be limited to a minimum of one year’s duration and a maximum of five.

Meanwhile, employers will be legally bound to provide proper accommodation and means of transport for those working at remote locations, while the new law ensures that employees cannot be financially penalized unless they are first notified in writing and allowed to argue in their own defense. On the subject of firing workers, the new legislation states that employers will be allowed to terminate an employee’s contract without prior notice or compensation only if the employee have been absent without justification for seven consecutive days, had 20 days off without good reason within a year or been found guilty of a serious crime.

In other cases, employers will have to give any employee they wish to dismiss three months notice of termination. On the subject of redundancy pay, under the new law terminated employees will receive 15 days pay for each of their first five years of employment, followed by a full month’s wage for each subsequent year of employment, provided that the full payment does not exceed 18 month’s wages in total.

Health minister’s visit to Canada vital OTTAWA: Kuwait’s Ambassador to Canada Dr Mosaad Al-Haroun welcomed the upcoming visit of Kuwait’s Health Minister Dr Hilal AlSayer to Canada and said it was important.

The ambassador said the minister will discuss during the one-week visit, which will begin on Jan 20, strengthening cooperation between Kuwait and Canada and will sign medical agreements with a number

of universities. He said that the minister would be heading a delegation of officials from the Kuwaiti Ministry and will be visiting Toronto and Montreal.

Al-Haroun said he was optimistic of the visit’s outcomes, adding that it was an opportunity to exchange medical expertise and information and to boosting cooperation, especially in the medical training field. The ambassador said

Al-Meel in a group photo with the contestants and the organizing committee.

that the past few years witnessed an exchange of visits between senior officials of the two countries.

Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr. Mohammad AlSabah visited Ottawa in 2006, he said.

Canada’s head of the senate and minister of international trade visited Kuwait in 2008, he pointed out, adding that the Gulf state’s Commerce and

Industry Minister Ahmad AlHaroun visited Canada last November and signed a memorandum of understanding on trade cooperation.

Trade exchange between the two countries increased about 70 percent in 2008 compared to the 2007.

About 130 Kuwaiti physicians are undergoing professional and academic training in Canadian hospitals and universities. — KUNA

The NBK team.

11th KBC bowling tournament begins

Al-Meel with the Central Bank’s team captain, Reem Al-Wuqaian.

The Commercial Bank team.

KUWAIT: The Kuwait Banks Club’s (KBC) 11th Annual Bowling Tournament began at the Cosmo bowling course in Salmiya and Khaifan hall. The KBC board member Mohammad Al-Meel was in charge of conducting the event.

Seventy two male and female contestants employed with various local banks like the Gulf Bank, the National Bank of Kuwait, the Central Bank of Kuwait, Al-Ahli Bank, the Kuwait and Middle East Bank, the Commercial Bank, the Industrial Bank, the Kuwait Finance House, and the Boubyan Bank were present.

Al-Meel expressed gratitude to the banks that participated in the event. They also commended, at the same time, the high level of competitive spirit that was displayed during the tournament’s early stage. He further indicated that valuable prizes were allocated for rewarding top winners. The tournament will be held until April.

The Central Bank team.

The Boubyan Bank team.

The Kuwait and Middle East Bank team.

The Ahli Bank team.

The KFH team.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Abbas spurns US effort to revive Mideast talks RAMALLAH: Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas yesterday spurned a new US effort to revive Mideast peace talks, sticking to his position that he will not resume negotiations unless Israel freezes settlement construction. With Abbas digging in, an upcoming diplomatic mission by US Mideast envoy George Mitchell could be doomed from the outset.

Mitchell has said he is trying to persuade both sides to resume talks aimed at ending their decades-old conflict. Previous talks broke off in December 2008. However, the US has failed to get Israel to halt construction of Jewish settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, lands the Palestinians want for their state. Israel captured both from Jordan in the 1967 Mideast war.

Instead, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to a 10-month moratorium on new construction in just the West Bank.

Israel continues to build for Jews in east Jerusalem.

Abbas said yesterday he will not resume talks under the current conditions. “No negotiations,” he told reporters at his headquarters in Ramallah. “We won’t agree to resume negotiations without a full settlement freeze, especially in Jerusalem, for a certain period.” The Obama administration has recently suggested bypassing the settlement issue by getting the two sides to discuss the borders of a Palestinian state. US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton has

said that by focusing on the endgame, such talks would defuse the problem of settlements.

But Abbas’ insistence on a settlement freeze suggested the US approach won’t work. The US lost credibility among Palestinians by backing down on settlements, an issue they see as an important test of Washington’s resolve. Under the US -backed “road map” plan, Israel is required to freeze all settlement construction.

The Israeli government has not commented on the proposed US plan. But aides to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have said he will not agree to divide Jerusalem and will not permit Palestinian refugees to return to what is now Israel.

Also yesterday, Israel arrested two prominent Palestinian organizers of weekly protests against Israel’s West Bank separation barrier.

Activists accuse Israel of trying to stifle legitimate political dissent with a widening arrest campaign. Dozens of protesters have been rounded up since the summer. The West Bank has been largely pacified and the barrier protests in the villages of Naalin and Bilin are among the last pockets of unrest. The barrier separates Palestinians from nearly 10 percent of the West Bank, in what Palestinians view as a land grab.

Israel says it built the barrier to keep out militants, and considers the protests illegal. Early yesterdy, the military arrested one man in Bilin and three in Naalin, including two protest organizers. —AP

US concerned after UAE leader’s brother acquitted WASHINGTON: US officials Monday denounced the acquittal of the brother of the UAE president who had been tried on charges of torturing an Afghan trader in 2004. “It’s not a credible verdict,” a senior official said, asking to remain anonymous, after the ruling handed down on Sunday on Sheikh Issa bin Zayed Al-Nahayan by an Emirati court.

The 40-year-old sheikh is the brother of the president of the United Arab Emirates and the ruler of oil-rich Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al-Nahayan. The UAE is a key regional ally of the United States. Sheikh Issa was acquitted by the court “after establishing he was not responsible” for the torture of the Afghan merchant in 2004 because he was under the influence of medication at the time, his lawyer Habib al-Mulla told AFP. But five co-defendants, including two Americans, were convicted. The case came to light when a video began circulating that appeared to show Sheikh Issa beating a man with whips, electric cattle prods and a wooden plank studded with nails, before rubbing salt in his wounds with the

help of police. However, the court in the oasis city of Al-Ain ordered two co-defendants to pay a “temporary compensation” of 10,000 dirhams (2,724 dollars) to the Afghan, who can file a new lawsuit to claim full compensation.

The two US defendants of Lebanese origin, brothers Ghassan and Bassam Nabulsi, were sentenced to five years in jail each in absentia for having drugged the sheikh. State Department official P.J Crowley said “there are still questions that have been raised,” adding Washington “will continue to watch the case carefully.” He added: “We recognized that all members of Emirati society must stand equal before the law and we remain concerned for the victims of this horrible crime. “We’d welcome a careful review of this decision... to ensure that the demands of justice are fully met in this case.” The court also sentenced three other workers at the farm where the torture took place to between one and three years in jail for drugging the sheikh, likewise in absentia, according to the lawyer Mulla. A guard at the farm was acquitted.— AFP

INTERNATIONAL

7

25 men arrested, suspected of plotting terror attacks

Hundreds of explosives seized in security operation, says Iraq BAGHDAD: Iraqi security forces locked down large swathes of Baghdad yesterday, seized hundreds of pounds of explosives and arrested 25 men suspected of plotting terror attacks possibly timed to coincide with the run-up to parliamentary elections in March. Iraq’s nationwide election will test whether Iraqis can vote in a government An explosives expert told The Associated Press that if the government’s claims were true, the amount of military grade explosive seized would have been enough for several car bombs or a large truck bomb. He spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

It was impossible to independently verify the government’s claims, which followed hours of lockdowns and searches of neighborhoods across the capital. Such operations have become rare since the height of the insurgency in 2006 and 2007 and as security in the capital improved since 2008. Officials have warned that insurgents seeking to disrupt the March vote could try to step up attacks as the election nears. The stakes are especially high for the prime minister’s Rule of Law coalition, which is campaigning on its ability to protect citizens.

Iraqi security agencies have been increasingly taking over duties from US forces, whose combat units are scheduled to leave by the end of August and the rest by Jan. 1, 2012.

Maj. Gen. Qassim al-Moussawi, the capital’s top military spokesman, said security forces had launched pre-emptive raids and seized 440 pounds (200 kilograms) of TNT, 440 pounds (200 kilograms) C4 and 66 gallons (250 liters) of ammonia, as well as 60 explosive devices.

“The security forces were able to arrest 25 men who planned to carry out terrorist attacks in Baghdad this morning,” he said.

Government spokesman Ali al-Dabbagh said the raids were prompted by a tip-off. “We salute the courageous citizen who gave the useful information to the security forces. I cannot reveal his name, but we salute him for contacting us,” he said, before apologizing to ordinary Iraqis inconvenienced by the lockdown.

Even without increased security, it can already take hours to negotiate the city’s snarled traffic jams , partly caused by blocked roads and interminable checkpoints. The capital has been rocked by a number of high-profile bombings in recent months, mostly targeting government institutions in central Baghdad. Hundreds were killed in those bombings. Opponents of the Shiite-led government questioned the timing of the security crackdown, suggesting it was carried out to show voters the government was in control of security. —AP

capable of overcoming deepening ethnic and sectarian rivalries, or whether those divisions will dissolve into violence that threatens the country’s unity and regional stability. Serious threats to Iraq’s security could hinder the drawdown of US forces slated to happen after the March 7 vote.

BAGHDAD: Iraqi soldiers stand close to a check-point along a street in central Baghdad on January 12, 2010, as much of the city and an increased military presence prompted extraordinary claims of a coup among callers to popular Iraqi radio phone in shows, leading to an official denial. Iraqi security forces sealed off Baghdad after a tip-off that insurgents planned multiple car bombings in the city, highlighting concerns about violence in the run-up to general elections in March. —AFP

Lebanon, Syria criticize US air screening rules BEIRUT: Lebanon and Syria criticized yesterday the tight security screening recently introduced by the United States against travelers from the two Arab nations, branding the measures a form of discrimination and warning they might lash back with similar measures.

President Barack Obama’s administration ordered the changes after the alleged attempt by a Nigerian man to blow up a jetliner bound to Detroit from Amsterdam on Christmas Day. The US

Transportation Security Administration said enhanced screening techniques would include full-body pat-downs, searches of carryon bags, full-body scanning and explosive-detection technology.

“It is the sovereign right of the USA to chose to protect its citizens the way it deems most appropriate,” Lebanon’s Information Minister Tarek Mitri told reporters. “What is under question is the fact that citizens of different countries are singled out in a discriminatory fashion.”

In Syria, the state-run news agency said Washington’s top diplomat in Damascus was summoned to the Foreign Ministry and told the new measures constituted “unfriendly behavior.” No Syrian citizen was ever involved in terror attacks against the US , the agency noted. The Syrian Foreign Ministry also informed the American diplomat that Damascus could be left with no choice but to introduce similar measures against US citizens. —AP

8

INTERNATIONAL

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Polanski sues French media for invasion of privacy PARIS : The news snapshot shows Roman Polanski standing at a window, a thin slice of his face visible amid an opening in the curtains. The French paper that printed the photo saw it as a newsworthy depiction of the director’s life under house arrest in his Swiss Alpine chalet. Lawyers for the “Chinatown” director say that the December 2009 photo and many others invaded his privacy as well as his family’s, and he and his wife are suing four French publications, two newspapers and two magazines for a total of about §150,000 ($217,215).

In a hearing yesterday, Polanski lawyer Marion Gregoire said the suits were an attempt “to put an urgent stop to the media spotlight” on the filmmaker and his family that has intensified in the months since a 32-year-old sex case against him was revived.

Several of the photos at issue depict

Polanski’s children, Elvis and Morgane, who, as minors, are especially protected by French media law.

“The legal case against Polanski in no way justifies the paparazzi’s stalking of his wife and children,” Gregoire said.

Invasion of privacy suits by celebrities are common in France, Polanski’s permanent residence and the country where he had lived for three decades before he was arrested in September while en route to a Swiss film festival.

Polanski, arrested on a US warrant, spent more than 60 days in detention in a Swiss jail before being transferred to house arrest in his Swiss vacation home on Dec. 4. Authorities in Switzerland have not yet ruled on whether to extradite Polanski to Los Angeles. He had fled the US in 1978 on the eve of sentencing after pleading guilty to having unlawful sex with a

minor in 1977. In hearings yesterday, Polanski’s lawyer said he has a deeply rooted fear of the media, which she traced back to the stabbing death of his pregnant second wife, Sharon Tate.

The actress and four others were murdered by followers of cult figure Charles Manson in 1969. Polanski has said he was horrified by rumors that swirled in the press before the killers were tracked down, rumors suggesting the victims had bizarre lifestyles and somehow brought the violence upon themselves.

Since then, Gregoire said, “Polanski has feared the media like the plague” and always sought to maintain his privacy.

Gregoire argued that Le Journal du Dimanche weekly newspaper should pay damages of §10,000 for the photo of Polanski at his window. The paper’s lawyer, Christophe Bigot, held up a photo of a mass of photographers out-

side Polanski’s chalet soon after his house arrest started. “Can you seriously claim in this context that if you stand at the window you won’t get your picture taken?” Bigot retorted.

Arguing that the photo was a legitimate depiction of a major international news story, Bigot called the suit unwarranted and asked the judge to order Polanski to pay the newspaper’s legal fees.

“The press can and should cover this type of case,” Bigot said.

Polanski’s lawyer asked for another §10,000 in damages from Voici magazine for a photo of Polanski’s wife, actress-singer Emmanuelle Seigner, walking down a street in Switzerland, a photo that the celebrity-oriented publication called “harmless.”

Polanski and his wife are also targeting magazine VSD for a spread that included photos of their children at an air-

port, demanding a total of §55,000.

VSD’s lawyer noted that the photos were taken in public and that the publication blurred the children’s faces so they could not be recognized _ a common practice in France. Decisions are expected Jan. 19.

A judge also heard a suit against Le Parisien newspaper last week, and that ruling is expected Friday. In Polanski’s sex case, the director was initially accused of raping a 13-yearold girl after plying her with champagne and a Quaalude pill during a 1977 modeling shoot. He was indicted on six felony counts, including rape by use of drugs, child molestation and sodomy, but he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of unlawful sexual intercourse. He fled to his native France on the eve of sentencing in 1978 after spending 42 days a California prison for a psychiatric evaluation.— AP

Hundreds protest despite Yar’Adua comments

Nigerian president ends silence, says recovering ABUJA: Nigeria’s president made his first public comment yesterday since being hospitalized more than seven weeks ago in Saudi Arabia for a heart condition, saying he was recovering and hoped to return home soon. Doubts over President Umaru Yar’Adua’s health and the fact he kept full powers despite his silence had brought growing unease in the country of 140 million, slowed official business and put at risk a truce in the oil-producing Niger Delta. The comments answer local media reports suggesting the president’s condition had worsened and “I wish, at this stage, to thank all Nigerians for their prayers for my good health, and for their prayers for the nation,” said Yar’Adua, 58, who sounded weak and gave no clear indication when he might return.

Yar’Adua’s refusal to transfer powers to Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has prompted a lawsuit from the Nigerian Bar Association, which says the president is violating the constitution, and growing disquiet.

Nobel literature laureate Wole Soyinka led a peaceful rally of hundreds of Nigerians to parliament to demand a resolution requiring a briefing on Yar’Adua’s health or sanctions for breaching the constitution. “We are told nothing has stopped, how can people tell us such a lie?”

Soyinka told hundreds of protesters with white T-shirts saying “Enough is enough”. “Electoral reform, constitutional reform has all ground to a halt.”

Parliament passed resolutions requesting more disclosure on Yar’Adua’s condition, including sending a delegation to Saudi.

But no deadline was give for the information. Critics said the actions fell short of protesters’ demands, which are unlikely to be met since Yar’Adua’s People’s Democratic Party (PDP) control both houses of parliament.

“We insist and believe that the president should transmit a

could buy more time to end uncertainty threatening the worst political crisis since army rule ended more than a decade ago. But religious leaders and opposition politicians angry at Yar’Adua’s long absence without handing over power went ahead with a protest rally in Abuja. “At the moment I am undergoing treatment, and I’m getting better from the treatment.

I hope that very soon there will be tremendous progress, which will allow me to get back home,” the president told British Broadcasting Corporation radio by phone.

ABUJA: Nigerians rally yesterday in Abuja, Nigeria, where the Nigerian House of Representatives also planned to discuss Nigerian’s President Umaru Yar’Adua’s long absence from power. — AP letter to the House of Representatives ... for the vice president to be sworn in as acting president,” said Femi Gbajabiamila, a leader of the

opposition Action Congress party. Transferring power from Yar’Adua, a Muslim northerner, to Jonathan, from the more heavily Christian south, would be

Incoming EU chief opposes body scans BRUSSELS : The EU’s justice commissioner-designate said yesterday she opposes the mandatory use of airport body scanners because of concerns about the privacy and safety of passengers. The official, Viviane Reding, said such scans would have to be voluntary, with officials guaranteeing that scanners pose no health hazard and agreeing to quickly destroy the images that are taken.

Under a newly revamped EU treaty, Reding could draft a law ruling out mandatory body scans at airports, but she did not say whether she plans to do that. If she did, such a draft would need to be approved by a majority of the 27 EU nations to become law. “Our citizens are not objects. They are human beings,” said Reding, who has been nominated as the next EU justice commissioner.

In the wake of the Christmas Day bombing attempt over Detroit, President Barack Obama called on his government to develop better screening technology, and it could include highly sophisticated sensors, more intensive interrogations of travelers by screeners trained in human behavior, and a lifting of the US prohibitions against profiling. In the US , 19 airports already use scanners, as do prisons and courthouses. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport , from where the would-be Christmas Day bomber flew to Detroit _ is buying 60 more body scanners. The EU justice commissioner job has gained significant powers under EU reforms that put a host of criminal and civil law issues to EU-wide decision-making. Earlier, they were the responsibility of individual governments, leaving Europe with a bewildering patchwork of legal rights, conditions and traditions.

At yesterday’s confirmation hearing, Reding said she would propose bills to boost the rights and privacy of EU nationals and make them uniform across the 27-nation bloc. The EU Parliament will vote Jan. 26 on Reding and the other 25 European

Commissioners-designate. The bloc, which must cast one vote for the 26 candidates, is likely to approve them all. Reding’s cautionary comments about body scanners set the tone for a three-hour appearance before a joint session of the EU assembly’s justice, legal affairs and woman’s rights panels. — AP

highly sensitive in a country where rival groups have maintained a careful balance since the return of civilian rule.

“It is a constitutional right of

the vice president to take over if the president is incapacitated,” said Jonjon Oyeinfe, a leading activist and ex-president of the Ijaw Youth Council ethnic rights

group. “They are doing this because he is from the Niger Delta. If he came from the north, it wouldn’t be like this.”

Yar’Adua’s spokesman said on Monday the president was “very much conscious” and his health was improving.

But many Nigerians have little faith in official assurances and local media recently reported his condition had worsened. “The absence of the president has very wide public policy implications for Nigeria in terms of development, in terms of justice, you name it.

Our type of government revolves around the president,” said Ayodele Thompson, executive director of Lagos-based Initiative for Public Policy Analysis. Yar’Adua’s absence threatens to derail a widely popular amnesty program that has brought relative peace to the Niger Delta after thousands of militants surrendered their weapons for clemency, a monthly stipend, education and job opportunities.

Former rebel commanders and local activists will decide yesterday after a three-day meeting whether to continue participating in the amnesty program that has stalled since Yar’Adua’s departure. In the Delta yesterday gunmen kidnapped four expatriate workers near Port Harcourt. — Reuters

Nigeria gunmen kidnap three British workers, 1 Colombian PORT HARCOURT: Gunmen in Nigeria kidnapped three British workers and one Colombian yesterday in an attack on their convoy near the oil hub Port Harcourt, a government spokeswoman and security sources said. A Nigerian security officer was killed in the incident, which occurred as the expatriates travelled to work. No group has claimed responsibility. “The abduction took place early this morning and four expatriates were taken, but we don’t have any more details now,” said Ibim Semenitari, spokeswoman for the Rivers State government.

Kidnappings for ransom are common in the oil-producing Niger Delta with hundreds of incidents reported each year. Most victims are released unharmed after a couple of days. A spokeswoman with Royal Dutch Shell said the expatriates, employed by Netco Dietsmann, were working as contractors for Shell at the Afam power plant.

“SPDC (Shell Petroleum Development

Company) is cooperating with the government and the contractor, and supporting efforts for their safe release,” she said.

Residents in Port Harcourt say violent crimes have become more common recently and blame former militants, who left the creeks of the Niger Delta as part of an amnesty offer that ended last October. The amnesty offer is the most serious attempt yet to end years of unrest in the Niger Delta, where armed gangs have blown up pipelines and kidnapped foreign oil workers to push what they say are demands for a fairer share of the natural wealth.

But there have been delays to the promised monthly stipends and retraining programs for those who agreed to disarm. Tensions have heightened further due to the prolonged absence of President Umaru Yar’Adua which has stalled the post-amnesty programs. Yar’A dua has been absent from Nigeria for more than seven weeks receiving treatment for a heart condition in Saudi Arabia. — Reuters

Britain bans Islamist group after row over planned march BRUSSELS: European Commissioner designate in charge of Justice, Fundamental rights and Citizenship, Viviane Reding of Luxembourg arrives for an examination with members of the European parliament at the EU headquarters in Brussels yesterday.— AFP

LONDON: Britain announced a ban yesterday on a radical Islamic group which triggered outrage by planning an anti-war march through a town where processions are held for soldiers killed in Afghanistan. Islam4UK will be banned from Thursday under anti-terror legislation, making it a criminal offence punishable by up to 10 years in jail to be a member of the group, which also uses other names, said Home Secretary Alan Johnson.

“I have today laid an order which will proscribe Al Muhajiroun, Islam4UK, and a number of the other names the organization goes by. It is already proscribed under two other names-Al Ghurabaa and

The Saved Sect,” he said. “Proscription is a tough but necessary power to tackle terrorism and is not a course we take lightly. We are clear that an organization should not be able to circumvent proscription by simply changing its name,” he added.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown said last week that he was “appalled” by Islam4UK’s plans to commemorate the Muslim civilians killed in the conflict with a march through Wootton Bassett in southwest England. Hundreds of people regularly gather in the town, which is close to the RAF Lyneham airbase where the bodies of British soldiers are returned from Afghanistan, to pay their respects. — AFP

MONTROUGE: This is a Jan 15, 2009 file photo, of film director Roman Polanski in Montrouge, France. — AP

in the news Mozambique opposition boycotts parliament ceremony MAPUTO: A member of Mozambique’s parliament says most of the main opposition party’s politicians have boycotted a swearingin ceremony. Antonio Timba says he was among 35 Renamo deputies who skipped yesterday’s opening of parliament to protest alleged election fraud. Sixteen other opposition politicians participated. Renamo’s leader has called for nationwide protests against last year’s election results. President Armando Guebuza easily won a second term during the October vote. His Frelimo party, in power since independence from Portugal in 1975, swept parliamentary voting. The opposition accused the ruling party of stuffing ballot boxes and expelling opposition monitors from polling stations to help it win.

Spanish teenager undergoes sex change MADRID: A doctor says a 16-year-old boy has become Spain’s first minor to undergo a sex change operation. Reconstructive surgeon Ivan Manero says the procedure was carried out three weeks ago and the patient is doing fine. Manero told a press conference yesterday in Barcelona that the boy had felt from a very young age that he was actually female. Manero said the patient had been undergoing hormonal and psychiatric treatment for two years, after deciding he wanted to undergo surgery to have the body of a woman. The patient’s name has not been disclosed. The surgery was carried out under authorization from a judge, as required by Spanish law in the case of minors seeking such an operation.

Missing British girl libel case opens in Lisbon LISBON: A Lisbon court is hearing a libel case brought by the parents of missing British girl Madeleine McCann against a former Portuguese detective. Kate and Gerry McCann are seeking §1.2 million (US$1.7 million) in damages from defendant Goncalo Amaral and a ban on a book he published about Madeleine’s disappearance. The book alleges the child died when she vanished during a family vacation in southern Portugal more than two years ago. The McCanns say the book defames them by questioning their version of events and discourages the search. They flew from England to attend the trial’s opening day yesterday. The proceedings are expected to last several days. A verdict is likely by the end of the month.

Rwandan panel says army shot down president’s jet NAIROBI: Rwandan Hutu army soldiers shot down the Hutu president’s plane on the eve of the country’s 1994 genocide, according to a government-commissioned inquiry that assigns blame for the event that sparked the slaughter of more than a half million people. President Juvenal Habyarimana had been returning from talks held with a rebel group, and the soldiers and extremist Hutu politicians and military officers were opposed to a power-sharing deal, the panel said in a report made public late Monday.

“Through repeated and unequivocal warnings, they indicated to him that his acceptance to implement the agreement would be signing for his own death and this is exactly what happened,” the report said. The panel of experts reached its conclusion after interviewing more than 500 people, including Rwandan and foreign military officers who were on duty when Habyarimana’s plane was shot down on April 6, 1994. After the attack, militants from the Hutu ethnic majority, known as Interahamwe, quickly set up roadblocks across the capital, Kigali, and on April 7 began killing Tutsis and moderate Hutus.

Rwanda formed the panel in October 2007, almost a year after a French judicial investigation accused the current president, Paul Kagame, of ordering Habyarimana’s assassination. The Rwandan panel was led by Jean Mutsinzi, a judge of Rwanda’s Supreme Court. Other panel members include Rwandan legal experts and former government offi-

cials.

The French judiciary is looking into the downing of Habyarimana’s plane because the crew was French.

Prominent former French investigating judge Jean-Louis Bruguiere, who began the probe, also accused nine other ranking Rwandans of plotting the attack. He issued arrest warrants for the nine but not Kagame because France grants immunity to heads of state.

That decision led to the deterioration of already tense relations between France and Rwanda over the European nation’s role in the 1994 genocide. Rwanda cut off diplomatic relations with France in 2006 over the French investigation.

Diplomatic ties were restored three years later, in November.

The Rwandan panel concluded that the Tutsi rebels fighting Habyarimana, a group led by Kagame, could not have shot down the plane. The report reached the conclusion based on witnesses who described seeing or hearing what looked or sounded like missiles being fired from inside or near a military barracks in an area heavily guarded by the army. The report also said that as part of the peace process a group of rebels were in the capital but under the guard of a U.N. peacekeeping mission and their movements were closely monitored.

More than 500,000 people, mostly ethnic Tutsis, were massacred in 100 days of frenzied killing led by the extremist Hutus. The killing stopped when Kagame’s Rwanda Patriotic Front toppled the Hutu extremists.— AP

INTERNATIONAL

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Pentagon calls Chavez US plot talk ‘diversion’ WASHINGTON: Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez is making “baseless” accusations of a US military plot to distract Venezuelans from real troubles at home, such as a currency devaluation, a top Pentagon official told Reuters. Chavez, who on Friday announced a devaluation that could fan inflation, said the same day he had scrambled two F-16 jets to intercept a US military plane that twice entered Venezuelan skies, “provoking us.”

Frank Mora, deputy assistant secretary of defense for Western Hemisphere Affairs, said the “baseless” and “unfounded” accusations-which the United States had immediately denied — were part of a pattern by Chavez. “The more that President Chavez is confronted with domestic challenges, the more his rhetoric heats up,” Mora said in an interview from his Pentagon office on Monday.

Mora said he found it “interesting that he made this unfounded accusation ... at the same time he was announcing a major currency devaluation,” adding repeated devaluations can lead to a potential scarcity of goods. “It is, in my view, a diversion of attention away from a particularly domestic challenge-and trying to scapegoat the issue by once again accusing the United States government.”

The Venezuelan government delivered a formal letter of protest to US diplomats in Caracas on Monday over the incursion, Venezuela’s foreign minister said. Venezuela’s vice president, who is also the defense minister, told local television the government had given U.S officials radar coordinates and recorded conversations of the alleged incident. Chavez, Latin America’s most outspoken US critic, has made a perceived threat of US intervention a central element of his political discourse and a rallying cry for supporters. He accused the

Netherlands in December of abetting a potential US offensive action against his government by granting US troops access to its islands close to Venezuela.

Chavez has also raised eyebrows in Western capitals by announcing last year that Iran was helping his country explore for uranium. “We monitor, we remain vigilant to these kinds of things,” Mora said.

Mora acknowledged recent tensions between Venezuela and neighboring Colombia, a close US ally, which have hurt trade and raised fears of border violence. But he praised the Colombian government for “not falling into that trap, which I think Chavez wants.” Chavez on Nov. 8 told Venezuelan troops to be ready for a possible war with Colombia. Colombia’s defense minister said last month that Bogota was preparing to defend against a possible foreign military attack.

Still, Mora said Colombia’s focus was on defeating Marxist FARC rebels and not a potential external conflict. “The Colombian government has not responded by mobilizing to the Colombian border.

Because it’s clear that these are simply provocations by the Venezuelan government,” he said.

“Are they concerned? Certainly they’re concerned.

But ... the equipment that they’re buying is still very much focused on what is the number one threat in Colombia-which is the (FARC) insurgency and narcotics,” Mora said.

“They are not buying new fighter aircraft for example or tanks to this point.” Chavez says pilotless drone aircraft are flying out of Colombia to spy on him and describes an agreement allowing UStroops more access to Colombian bases as part of a plot to invade Venezuela, South America’s top oil-exporting nation. — Reuters

Soldier jailed for angry rap song GEORGIA: Angry that the military planned to send him back to Iraq past his date to leave the military, a soldier recorded a hiphop song that blasts the Army and describes going on a shooting spree, an act that led his commanders to decide that the soldier posed a threat to his unit.

The infantry soldier, Spc. Marc A. Hall, has been jailed on criminal charges in Georgia, for the past month for a song and other statements that one of his lawyers insists were simply a form of protest.

“They’re saying it’s a threat.

We’re saying it’s a fantasy,” said Jim Klimaski, a Washington civilian attorney who has talked to Hall about the case. “He’s mad, but he’s not stupid. He’s not violent.” Charges filed against Hall, of South Carolina, on Dec 17, a week after he was jailed, say his threats weren’t just confined to his rap recording. The charging document said he also told soldiers he would “go on a rampage” and that he “was planning on shooting the brigade and battalion commanders.” Fort Stewart spokesman Kevin Larson said Monday commanders were being extra cautious after the recent shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas, where an Army psychiatrist was charged with murdering 13 people in November. “Any threat needs to be taken seriously, no matter what,” Larson said. “Any reasonable person who listens to that song would be concerned.”

Hall, 34, was charged with five criminal counts under a military law, Article 134, used as a catchall for misconduct ranging from adultery to some types of

assault. Each count specifies that Hall communicated threats.

Hall’s military attorney, Capt.

Anthony Schiavetti, declined to comment Monday.

Klimaski said the soldier intended no real violence. He said Hall was using music to vent his anger after learning last year that, instead of leaving the Army after four years this February as he’d planned, he would be kept in the ranks for a

yearlong tour in Iraq starting in December 2009 under the unpopular “stop loss” policy.

Hall, who joined the Army in 2006, was arrested by military authorities in December before his unit deployed. Hall posted the song, called “Stop Loss,” on his Web site. Klimaski said he also played it for many soldiers in his unit, the 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division.— AP

9

Washington intends to ‘exercise influence’ in Asia

Clinton plays down row over air base HAWAII: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton sought to defuse a dispute over a US air base in Japan as she arrived in Hawaii for talks with her Japanese counterpart Katsuya Okada. Launching her fourth Asia tour since becoming the chief US diplomat a year ago, Clinton also said Washington intends to “exercise influence” in Asia for another century “The significance of our meeting is to reaffirm the centrality of our 50-year-old alliance,” Clinton said on a tour that will also take her to Papua New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand. “It (the alliance) provides stability for the region.

And I think it’s much bigger than any one particular issue,” Clinton said, suggesting the alliance trumped the problem of the base.

Tokyo’s relations with its most important ally have been strained over the Futenma base, which Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama has suggested should be moved off the southern island of Okinawa or even outside Japan altogether. The center-left Hatoyama, who took power in September, has pledged to review past agreements on the US military presence, including plans to shift Futenma within Okinawa, and to deal with Washington on a more “equal” basis. But Clinton urged patience as a new party adjusts to power in Japan and put a positive spin on US ties with the new government, praising it for setting up a five-billion-dollar fund for Afghanistan.

“So we see our relationship with Japan as very broad and deep, and security is obviously a critical part of that, but it is by no means the only part,” she said. Yomiuri newspaper and other reports said Sunday that Clinton and Okada will make final arrangements yesterday for an anniversary state-

and serve as a stabilizing force against China’s rising power. Clinton, speaking to reporters on the way to Honolulu Monday on the eve of talks with Okada, played down the dispute over the relocation of the Futenma Air Base on Okinawa that has caused tension in the post-war alliance.

HAWAII: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton steps from her plane Monday upon arrival in Honolulu. Clinton arrived in Honolulu at the start of her weeklong visit to the Pacific region. —AFP ment by the US and Japanese leaders stressing the contribution of their alliance to global peace.

The security treaty, signed on January 19, 1960, has formed the bedrock of the post-war Japan-US alliance, under which pacifist Japan relies on a massive US military presence to guarantee its security.

During her two-day stop, Clinton will visit the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, which

commemorates those who died in the Japanese surprise attack on December 7, 1941 that brought the United States into World War II. She will then travel to Papua New Guinea for talks on climate change and economic development before heading to New Zealand and Australia, where she will discuss similar issues as well as international security. Kurt

Campbell, the assistant secretary of state for Asian affairs, said Clinton will also seek advice from Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, who speaks Chinese, about how the United States can better work with China.

Beijing’s support is key for US goals in curbing the nuclear ambitions of Iran and North Korea as well as combating climate change.

For her first overseas trip as chief

diplomat, Clinton visited Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and China last February. She traveled to India and Thailand in July, then Singapore and the Philippines in November. Her repeated visits to Asia are a “signal that the United States intends to be a leader and exercise influence in this region for this century as well as last century,” Clinton said. “There was a general sense on the part of our allies and partners in the region that we were withdrawing,” she said, suggesting the previous administration of president George W. Bush had neglected the region.

“But people want to see that the United States is fully engaged in Asia so that, as China rises, there is a presence of the United States as a force for peace and stability, as a guarantor of security.”

Clinton played down the risk of tension with China as President Barack Obama’s administration supports the sale of defensive arms to Taiwan and engages with the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibet. “What I’m expecting is that we actually have a mature relationship that fits the description that was given at the summit between our two presidents that it be positive, cooperative and comprehensive,” she said.

“That means that it doesn’t go off the rails when we have differences of opinion.”— AFP

Canadian mauled to death by his tiger OTTAWA: The Canadian owner of a tiger, after winning a lengthy legal battle for the right to keep exotic pets, was mauled to death by the 650-pound animal, police said Monday. Norman Buwalda, 66, was found dead in the tiger’s pen on his property in rural Ontario on Sunday afternoon, Ontario Provincial Police Constable Troy

Carlson said. “He had gone in to feed the tiger and possibly had been attacked,” Carlson told AFP, indicating there were no witnesses. “A family member found him dead in the tiger’s cage.”

“We don’t know what may have provoked or caused the attack,” he added.

Buwalda had two tigers, as well as two

Mexico opens 2010 with one of its deadliest days BRITISH COLOMBIA: Rev Barry Morris speaks during funeral services for Michelle Lang in Vancouver, BC, on Monday. Lang, a journalist with the Calgary Herald, and four Canadian soldiers were killed when the armored vehicle they were in rolled over an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. — AP

Domino’s comes clean with new pizza ads CHICAGO: For a pizza joint, it’s a bold move to tell customers your crust tasted like cardboard and your sauce was like ketchup. But that’s just what Domino’s Pizza Inc. has been saying since last month in untraditional ads about the recipes it abandoned when it launched its reformulated pizza.

As industry observers , and even a late night TV host , scratch their heads, the company’s incoming CEO said the chain had no choice but to be honest about its old recipe pizza if it had any hope of winning back customers and their taste buds.

“The old days of trying to spin things simply doesn’t work anymore,” President Patrick Doyle, who will become CEO in March, told The Associated Press in an interview. “Great brands going forward are going to have a level of honesty and transparency that hasn’t been seen before.”

Using a documentary style, the TV ads , in 15-, 30and 60-second spots , offer glimpses of focus groups and Twitter messages where customers said Domino’s pies were even worse than microwave pizza and “totally void of flavor.” The ads then cut to interviews in the Michigan company’s test kitchen, where chefs and executives tout the new pies’ bolder, richer sauce, a more robust cheese combination and herb- and garlic-flavored crust. But it’s the brutally honest tone that’s causing many to take notice.

“It takes alpha meat balls to stand up and say ‘America, we suck,”’ comedian Stephen Colbert said while lampooning the campaign on his show last week. For the record, after taking a bite he declared: “Is that a pizza or did an angel just give birth in my mouth.” At the same time, customers who preferred the ‘old’ Domino’s are now left in the cold, experts said. “By doing that they are basically saying, ‘We’ve been shoveling you crap for years and now we want you to trust us,”’ said Kelly

O’Keefe, managing director of the Brand Center at Virginia Commonwealth University.

Executives said the chain decided to start overhauling its recipe about 18 months ago after mounting criticism from focus groups and on social media sites. But the idea for the bare-it-all campaign came from Crispin Porter & Bogusky, a major Madison Avenue advertising agency. In the nation’s $36 billion pizza market, Domino’s ranks No. 2 behind Yum Brands Inc.’s Pizza Hut chain in sales and number of stores, according to market research firm Euromonitor International. Often considered a leader for customer loyalty, Domino’s has scored painfully low on its pizza’s taste. Doyle acknowledges some leaders were wary of airing what could be considered the 50-year-old company’s dirty laundry.

“The way we’ve positioned this with the consumer, we only get one shot,” he said. “But the risk would have been higher if we weren’t extremely confident that we have a better pizza.” While unusual, highlighting mistakes in an ad campaign can win over consumers , but only if the majority agree the product was faulty in the first place, said Kevin Lane Keller, a marketing professor at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. It can be more effective than simply highlighting the new recipe, he said, because Domino’s is telling consumers it understands their concerns.

“Taking chances makes sense if you’re in a position where you can benefit from it,” he said. “And they may be if they have some negatives hurting them.” But Deborah Mitchell, executive fellow at the Center for Brand and Product Management at Wisconsin School of Business, said the campaign may cause confusion in the market place because people have known Domino’s for having a quick, 30-minute delivery, not for flavor. — AP

MEXICO CITY: Mexico opened the new year with what could be its most dubious distinction yet in the 3-year-old battle against drug trafficking , 69 murders in one day. The country resembled a grim, statistical dart board Saturday as law enforcement and media reported the deaths from various regions, including 26 in the border city of Ciudad Juarez, 13 in and around Mexico City and 10 in the northern city of Chihuahua.

More than 6,500 drug-related killings made 2009 the bloodiest year since President Felipe Calderon declared war on the cartels in late 2006 and deployed 45,000 soldiers to fight organized crime, according to death tallies by San Diego’s Trans-Border Institute.

Two weeks into 2010, gang bloodshed is becoming more grotesque as drug lords ramp up their attempts at intimidation.

Last week a victim’s face was peeled from his skull and sewn onto a soccer ball. On Monday, prosecutors in Culiacan identified the remains of 41-year-old former police officer divided into two separate ice chests. “You wonder how this will end, and it seems impossible,” said Daniel Vega, an architect in the northern city of Monterrey. “I doubt Mexico can override drug use, especially since demand for the drugs, as well as all the money and weapons, come from the United States.” Using their so-called Narcobarometer, researchers at the University of San Diego’s Trans-Border Institute track and analyze murders in Mexico, hoping to find ways to quell the violence. Their tally? More than 20,000 murders since 2001, more than half in the past two years.

“It does appear that the violence has grown exponentially, but it’s not clear that it’s necessarily a slippery downward slope from here,” institute director David Shirk said, noting that government operations , including a December raid that killed cartel boss Arturo Beltran Leyva , have hit seven of Mexico’s eight significant cartels.

Shirk said the remaining, mostly unscathed Sinaloa cartel headed by billionaire gang boss Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman may now become dominant, reducing the deadly power struggles. “If that happens, it’s quite possible that six months from now things will be much calmer,” Shirk said. Though almost all of drug-violence victims are somehow involved with cartels, the impact is felt well beyond law enforcement and organized crime.

“I’m afraid to take to the streets every day because of the violence, and I no longer want to excel economically because it could make me an easy target for a kidnapping,” said Silvana Cervantes, a Monterrey nurse. Tijuana resident Fernando Escobedo said he used to spend his evenings at a vibrant strip of clubs in the border city until a recent massacre at one of his hangouts. “Now I prefer socializing at houses or parties, with family or lifetime friends,” he said. As Mexico tries to develop both politically and economically, the killings jeopardize its international reputation, said Larry Birns, director of the Council on Hemispheric Affairs in Washington.

“The figures in Mexico are so scary that it has produced a subliminal sense that Mexico is a dangerous place and you’d better keep away,” he said. Calderon said last week he would shift focus to job creation and reducing poverty and move the fight against drug cartels that dominated the first half of his presidency to No. 3. Monterrey police officer Delfino Ramos, who grapples with the violence in his daily work, said economic issues are at the root of the problems. “So much unemployment pushes people toward crime,” he said.— AP

lions and a cougar at one time, but one of the tigers died last year, police said. In 2004, a tiger attack on a 10-year-old boy visiting the property sparked a two-year legal battle between Buwalda and the nearby Southwold Township over the council’s subsequent ban on keeping wild animals as pets.

The boy was hospitalized after

reportedly slipping and falling near one of Budwalda’s tigers, which had been brought out of its cage on a heavy chain to be photographed for the boy’s school report on Buwalda’s exotic pets.

Buwalda challenged the ban in court, and won. An Ontario Superior Court judge ruled the bylaw was flawed and too broad.— AFP

10

INTERNATIONAL

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

New Zealand, Fiji agree to thaw frosty relations WELLINGTON: New Zealand announced a thaw in frosty relations with Fiji yesterday, saying fresh diplomatic postings were planned in each country after a series of expulsions that followed the Fijian military’s seizure of power in a 2006 coup. New Zealand Foreign Minister Murray McCully did not give any timeframe for the full restoration of relations between the countries, and said the diplomatic upgrade did not change his government’s strong condemnation of Fiji’s

military rule.

Military leader Frank Bainimarama seized control in 2006, ousting the elected government led by Laisenia Qarase. His government moved to consolidate power over the past year, overthrowing the constitution in April, dismissing judges and imposing strict military censorship on the country’s news media. New Zealand has been one of the key critics of Bainimarama’s rule, and Fiji has expelled three senior New Zealand diplomats, including its mis-

sion head, in the past 18 months, sparking the tit-for-tat expulsion of Fiji’s head of mission last August.

Currently, neither country’s mission has a head or deputy. McCully said each country would appoint a senior diplomat shortly, with deputy heads of mission also likely to be reappointed in each capital within months. The move to partly rebuild diplomatic staff comes after McCully met with his Fijian counterpart, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, in Fiji over the weekend.

McCully told

reporters that “none of this signals a change to New Zealand’s substantive policy as regard to the regime in Fiji, nor does it signal a change to the sanctions regime that’s currently in place.”

Sanctions ban Fiji regime members and supporters from travel to or through New Zealand.

“Generally there is a desire on Fiji’s part to see us improve the relationship,” McCully said. In a statement later yesterday, Fiji’s government said the two countries “have agreed to an

additional counselor position being established ... with approval in principle for deputy head of mission appointments in each capital to follow soon.”

McCully said he had not yet discussed the issue with officials at the Commonwealth, the group comprising Britain and its former colonies , which suspended Fiji from its forums in September.

McCully said he expected the issue to be a topic of conversation with US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham

Clinton when she visits later in the week, with the United States seeking “to actively re-engage” in the Pacific region. Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith welcomed the expansion of the New Zealand diplomatic mission in Suva. “Whilst we have a strong disagreement with the interim Fiji government and want Fiji to return to democracy, at some point in the cycle we do need to have a dialogue with the Fiji government,” Smith told reporters. — AP

Military ready to deter any possible aggression: Kim

S Korea, US dismiss North Korea’s peace talks proposal SEOUL: South Korea and the US rejected North Korea’s proposal to start peace talks to formally end the Korean War, with Seoul saying yesterday that can happen only after the North rejoins disarmament talks and reports progress in denuclearization. The North, however,

said Monday that its return to those negotiations hinges on building better relations with the United States, including signing a peace treaty. The North also called for the lifting of international sanctions against it.

SEOUL: South Korean protesters shout slogans during a rally demanding US-North Korea summit talks for a peace treaty in the Korean Peninsula near the US Embassy in Seoul, South Korea yesterday. — AP

Thai court to rule on Thaksin’s fortune BANGKOK: Thailand’s Supreme Court will next month decide whether authorities can seize fugitive former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s frozen assets worth 2.2 billion dollars, officials said yesterday.

Prosecution and defense lawyers have 30 days to submit their closing statements after the court finished hearing evidence in the case, said Sekesan Bangsomboon, director general of the department of special litigation.

“The court has set Febuary 26 as the day for the ruling,” he told AFP. Twiceelected Thaksin was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and a committee appointed by the military junta that ruled Thailand for the subsequent 14 months froze his 76-billion-baht fortune. The assets represent most of the profits his family earned when they sold his Shin Corp. telecoms empire in January 2006 to Singapore’s state-linked investment firm Temasek Holdings. The sale sparked

public uproar, bringing tens of thousands of anti-Thaksin protesters into the streets, which led to the coup.

Prosecutors argue the Shin Corp. shares belonged to Thaksin, and that he broke the law by not paying tax on the sale. The court began hearing the case in July last year. Thaksin is currently living abroad, mostly in Dubai, after the same court in 2008 sentenced him in absentia to two years in prison in a conflict of interest case that he says is political-

ly motivated.

He was found guilty of helping his wife Pojaman, from whom he is now divorced, to purchase prime Bangkok real estate from the government at about onethird the land’s appraised value. Thaksin has continued to stir up political unrest in Thailand from abroad, with thousands of his so-called “Red Shirt” supporters protesting Monday at the house of a royal adviser accused of involvement in the coup. — AFP

in the news 2 dead, 2 hurt after bar shooting spree in Japan TOKYO: A gun-wielding man opened fire at a bar in western Japan yesterday, leaving one person dead and two others seriously wounded before killing himself after the attack. One of the three victims, a man in his 20s, died while the other two remained in critical condition at a hospital, police official Mitsuyuki Oda said. The man turned the gun on himself after shooting the three people, including an elderly woman, at the bar in Habikino City in Osaka prefecture, Oda said. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. Oda said police were investigating the gunman’s motive. He said it was not known if he was linked to any gangster groups. Guns are strictly controlled in Japan and shootings are rare. When such attacks do occur, they are often linked to gangsters known as yakuza.

Australian city swelters through hottest night in 108 years SYDNEY: The Australian city of Melbourne has sweltered through its hottest night since 1902, with temperatures topping 34 degrees Celsius (93 degrees Fahrenheit), meteorologists said yesterday. Millions tossed and turned in the overnight heat in Australia’s second city, with power cuts exacerbating the problem in some areas and some people even resorted to nocturnal trips to the beach to cool

off. “It’s probably the most uncomfortable night I’ve ever had Down Under,” said Andrew Jefferson of Ballarat, west of Melbourne, who emigrated from Britain in 2001. Thousands of homes were without power as electricity companies’ equipment failed in the heat. The city was also hit by hundreds of train cancellations on Monday, enraging commuters. Meteorologists said earlier this month that the last decade was the hottest on record in Australia.

China plans for world’s highest airport in Tibet BEIJING: China has announced plans to build the world’s highest airport in Tibet by 2011, further accelerating investment into the restive Himalayan region, state media said yesterday. The 14,553-foot (4,436-meter) Nagqu Dagring Airport is expected to surpass Bamda Airport, also in Tibet, by 335 feet (102 meters) as the world’s highest altitude airport, the official Xinhua News Agency reported. The new airport is part of Beijing’s ongoing plan to encourage development of transportation and other industries in the longisolated region as a way to promote its economic growth and raise living standards. Six new railway lines in and around Tibet are in the works, following the opening in 2006 of the final link in a line from Beijing to the capital Lhasa. Critics worry the rush into

Tibet could wreck much of the highaltitude region’s delicate ecosystem, and an influx of the majority ethnic Han Chinese threatens its Buddhist culture and traditional way of life.

8-yr-old boys save drowning man at beach ADELAIDE: Two 8-year-old boys in a young lifeguards training program rescued a man who was struggling in the ocean off Australia’s east coast.

Jake Satherley told Australian Broadcasting Corp. radio that he and friend Spencer Jeams saw a middleaged man having trouble Sunday off Northcliffe beach, in Queensland state. “We saw him put his hand up and saying, ‘help, help,’ so we went over to him and pulled him on our board,” Satherley said Monday. The boys are part of the under-14 lifeguard training program at Northcliffe Life Saving Club. Club president David Shields said he’d never seen a rescue like it. “They really did perform well above their years,” he told ABC. “We’re just so proud of them and the way they acted instinctively.”

Nearly 50,000 Australian children ages 5 to 13 are enrolled in junior life saving programs, according to Surf Life Saving Australia.

Yesterday, South Korea’s defense chief repeated his country’s suspicion of such calls from the North, which regularly pushes for a treaty. Kim Tae-young told reporters he will continue to try to find what the North’s true intention is behind the proposal.

Kim added his military is ready to deter any possible North Korean aggression, saying the North “many times in the past offered peace gestures with one hand while on the other committed provocations.”

He also repeated a demand from Washington and his own government that any discussion of a peace treaty can only take place after Pyongyang returns to the six-nation nuclear negotiations that it abandoned last year. The allies insist that the North take steps toward disarmament before any concessions on sanctions or a treaty will be made.

“I think it’s an issue that we can probably move forward with after the six-party talks are reopened and there is progress in North Korea’s denuclearization process,” Kim Tae-young said. Seoul’s Foreign Ministry also weighed in, saying it would press ahead with diplomacy to achieve a swift resumption of the disarmament negotiations.

“We urge North Korea to quickly return to the six-way talks and take irreversible steps toward denuclearization,” ministry spokesman Kim Youngsun said in a statement.

In Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said China was “waiting to join hands with other parties to promote an early resumption” of those talks. Earlier, US State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley brushed off the North’s call. Speaking Monday in Washington, he urged North Korea to return to the talks “and then we can begin to march down the list of issues that we have.” Washington and Pyongyang have never had diplomatic relations because the 1950-53 Korean War ended in a truce, not a peace treaty, leaving the peninsula technically at war. North Korea, the US led United Nations Command and China signed a cease-fire, but South Korea never did.

Despite the rejection, the North’s top diplomat in Beijing yesterday repeated his country’s position that it will only resume the nuclear talks after international sanctions on it are lifted.

“If sanctions are lifted, the six-party talks can be held at once,” North Korean Ambassador to China Choe Jin Su said in a group interview in Beijing, according to Japan’s Kyodo News agency. He also said the conclusion of a peace treaty will help promote denuclearization “at a rapid tempo,” Kyodo reported. North Korea, which claims it was forced to develop atomic bombs to cope with US threats, called for a peace treaty to be concluded this year, which it emphasized marks the 60th anniversary since the outbreak of the Korean War. The signing of a peace treaty has been discussed at the six-nation disarmament talks before but has always been based on the assumption that there would be progress in North Korea’s denuclearization.

Analysts, including Yang Moo-jin of Seoul’s University of North Korean Studies, say the North this time is trying to bring the issue of a peace treaty to the forefront to dilute the issue of nuclear disarmament. — AP

KUALA LUMPUR: From left, President of the Borneo Evangelical Church Daniel Raut, Vice President of the Borneo Evangelical Church Simon Petrus Marcus, Executive Secretary of the National Evangelical Christian Fellowship Malaysia Alfred Tais, and their lawyer Annou Xavier arrive at a court in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia yesterday. — AP

Malay Christian challenges seizure of ‘Allah’ CD: Lawyer KUALA LUMPUR: A Malaysian Christian is challenging the seizure of religious CDs with the word “Allah” printed on them, in the latest twist of an escalating dispute over use of the word, her lawyer said yesterday. Jill Ireland, of the indigenous Melanau tribe from Sarawak state on Borneo island, is seeking a court order to return eight discs seized when she returned from Indonesia in May 2008, her lawyer Annou Xavier said.

The legal action comes amid a spate of firebombings against churches across the nation, triggered by the High Court’s December 31 decision to lift a government ban on non-Muslims using “Allah” as a translation for “God.” The ruling in favor of Catholic newspaper The Herald, which argued for the right to use “Allah” in its Malaylanguage section, was suspended last week pending an appeal, after the government argued the decision could cause racial conflict.

“Ireland is seeking the return of her discs and a declaration that she can use the word ‘Allah’ and to own, use and import materials with the word ‘Allah’ in exercising her religious freedom,” Xavier told reporters. “Christians in Sabah and Sarawak have been using the word ‘Allah’ for centuries,” he added. Ireland is a member of the Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) Church. One of its churches in central Negri Sembilan state was targeted on Monday, in an attack that left its door

charred. Daniel Raut, president of SIB in peninsular Malaysia, said its 36 congregations on the peninsula as well as 250,000 members in the Borneo island states of Sabah and Sarawak, worship mainly in the national language Malay. “We will continue to use the word in our worship because we have been using it all the while. Why all of a sudden are we being asked to stop using it?” he asked.

“Our prayer and hope is that the government will continue to allow us to use the word,” he said, adding that members were “really fearful” over the attacks. Nine churches have been fire-bombed or vandalized so far, sending tensions soaring in the multicultural nation, where the Muslim Malay majority lives alongside ethnic Chinese and Indian communities. Churches have been pelted with Molotov cocktails, splashed with black paint and had windows smashed with stones, triggering tighter security at places of worship nationwide.

The row is one of a string of religious disputes in recent years that have raised fears among minorities that the country is being “Islamized” and that their rights are being eroded. About nine percent of Malaysia’s 28 million people are Christians, including 850,000 Catholics. More than half of Malaysia’s Catholics are from indigenous groups, mostly from Borneo. — AFP

‘Milkshake murderer’ in final appeal: Hong Kong HONG KONG: An American woman dubbed the “milkshake murderer” for the killing of her high-flying banker husband in one of Hong Kong’s most sensational crime cases launched her final appeal yesterday. Nancy Kissel, 45, appeared in Hong Kong’s highest court to appeal her conviction for murdering her husband in 2003 by lacing a strawberry milkshake with a cocktail of sedatives and bludgeoning him to death with a lead ornament.

She was sentenced to life in prison in 2005 after a threemonth trial which unveiled a heady mix of adultery, violence, spying, greed and enormous wealth, gripping the former British colony and inspiring a book and a TV movie.

Gruesome details emerged in the trial, including evidence that Kissel rolled up her husband Robert’s body in a carpet and left it in the bedroom of their luxurious apartment for days before hiring workmen to carry it to a storeroom.

Prosecutors claimed Kissel stood to gain up to 18 million US dollars in insurance payouts from the death of her husband, a senior investment banker at Merrill Lynch. Kissel admitted from the witness box that she killed her husband, but claimed she was acting in self-defense after he attacked her with a baseball bat on the night of the murder. Her defense team is challenging the conviction before the Court of Final Appeal on the grounds that prosecutors breached evidence rules during

HONG KONG: In this Aug 2, 2005 file photo, American Nancy Kissel walks out of Hong Kong’s High Court. The American expatriate jailed in Hong Kong for more than four years for killing her investment banker husband launched her final appeal of a life sentence yesterday. — AP Kissel’s trial. Her last appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal in 2008.

“It has been six and a half years. Nancy has got great spirit, although her physical condi-

tion is not great,” Kissel’s mother Jean McGothlin told AFP. Kissel’s father Ira Keeshin and half-brother Brooks Keeshin were also at the appeal. — AFP

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

INTERNATIONAL

11

Afghanistan war should stay out of Pakistan: FM ABU DHABI: The war against Taleban militants in Afghanistan must be fought inside the country itself and not spill over into Pakistan, the Pakistani foreign minister said yesterday. “The Afghan war has to be fought within Afghanistan. The challenges within Afghanistan cannot be resolved in Pakistan,” Shah Mehmood Qureshi told reporters on the sidelines of a Meeting of Special Representatives for Afghanistan and Pakistan, held in Abu Dhabi.

“The challenge that we have in Pakistan is being faced very bravely and very courageously by the people of Pakistan,” he said. “On our side of the border, Pakistan is capable of looking after the problem.” Pakistan faces Taleban insurgents and militants who have killed over 2,900 people since July 2007. The insurgents are fighting to impose a version of Islamic Sharia and also oppose Islamabad’s alliance with the United States in the eight-year war against the Taleban in neighboring

Afghanistan.

In his address to the conference, Afghan Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta said both diplomatic and military methods were needed to bring stability to his country. “We seek ... in addition to military means, peaceful solutions to our security challenge,” Spanta said. “Afghanistan is fully committed to pave the way for a return to normal life by all Afghans who are ready to surrender arms and abide by the Afghan constitution,” he said. On the sidelines of the forum, Spanta said the US troop surge in Afghanistan must be part of a broader strategy including development and strengthening state institutions if it is to succeed.

“Political reconciliation, reintegration (of exfighters), capacity-building of civilian institutions, improvement of governance and structures inside Afghanistan are very important for a forward movement or for stability and peace in Afghanistan,” he

said. Egypt’s Deputy Foreign Minister Wafa Baseem expressed similar sentiment. “We do believe that military measures could be needed sometimes,” she said. “But (in) the long run, they are not the only solution, or the solution ... to a conflict, especially in Afghanistan.”

However, both Pakistan and Egypt expressed willingness to train Afghan security forces. “We’ve offered to train on a fast track Afghan soldiers and Afghan policemen so that the law enforcement operations within Afghanistan improve,” Qureshi said. And Baseem said Egypt already informed Afghanistan in May 2009 that it was ready to provide military training for Afghan officers and soldiers. The one-day conference brought together delegations from about 40 countries ahead of a January 28 conference on Afghanistan in London to be attended by Afghan President Hamid Karzai and other international leaders. — AFP

ABU DHABI: Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureishi and his Emirati counterpart Sheikh Abdallah bin Zayed Al-Nahayan talk to an unidentified delegate on the sidelines of a meeting in Abu Dhabi yesterday. — AFP

13 insurgents killed by missile in south

6 protesting Quran destruction killed KASHMIR: Kashmiri Muslims grieve over the body during the funeral of alleged Hizbul Mujahideen militant, Riyaz Ahmad at Abhama village, some 60 kms south of Srinagar yesterday. — AFP

Kashmir separatist warns of return to more violence NEW DELHI: Indian Kashmir risks a return to militancy and violent protests if New Delhi fails to push a stalled peace process in the disputed region, one of the state’s most influential separatist leaders said yesterday. Yasin Malik’s comments came amid a spurt in militant attacks in Kashmir in the last week, combined with diplomatic limbo between India and Pakistan that further complicates U.S. efforts to battle Islamist militancy in the region.

Talks over Kashmir between the Congress party-led government and separatist groups broke down in 2006. While at least 47,000 people have been killed since the start of an insurgency in 1989, the region has gradually become free of violence in the last few years. Huge and mostly peaceful protests by pro-separatist Kashmiris in 2008 and 2009 sparked hopes New Delhi may try to reignite a peace process, but both sides made little progress amid mutual suspicion and New Delhi’s fraught ties with Islamabad after the Mumbai attacks.

“The need of the hour is to restore the credibility of the dialogue process,” Yasin Malik,head of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front which pushes for a peaceful campaign for Kashmiri independence, told Reuters during a conference in New Delhi. “It has taken us so many years with a very hard effort to bring a transition from violent movement to non-violent movement. This transition needs to be respected ... If Kashmiris are not given respect they could fall back to a violent past.”

Many experts see a peace process in Kashmir as key to improving India’s relations with Pakistan, allowing Islamabad to divert its resources from its eastern border to focus on helping the United States battle Al-Qaeda and Taleban militants. But New Delhi continues to

drag its feet over holding talks with Pakistan, which lays claim to Kashmir, saying that it must first crack down on militants behind the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

After a year of relative calm, at least seven militants have been killed in separate gunbattles in Indian Kashmir over the last week, including one incident when militants holed up in a hotel in the heart of Srinagar for nearly 24 hours. “For 15 years I have been propagating non-violence but ... there are signs of frustration among both the youth and the older people, because there were huge protests and no one seemed to listen,” said Malik, a former militant.

Mostly Muslim Kashmir is at the core of decades of hostility between India and Pakistan and was the cause of two of their three wars since independence from British rule in 1947.

They both claim it in full but rule it in part.

Malik’s history underscores the problems facing the peaceful separatist cause. Imprisoned as a militant in 1990, he renounced violence and declared a ceasefire in 1994, but he has been often imprisoned and his peaceful aims have so far given little fruit.

“Since the ceasefire I have lost 600 colleagues and been arrested 200 times. There have been three attempts on my life,” Malik said, before rolling up his trousers to show what he said were the marks of torture by Indian security forces.

Last year, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh offered to help resume talks over Pakistan and Kashmir. Little headway is visible, but some officials say a dialogue between the rivals is being carried on outside public scrutiny.

“I have no reason to doubt his integrity,” Malik said. “But he is surrounded by military bureaucracy, he is surrounded by civil bureaucracy. Some of these people are constraining him.” — Reuters

Sri Lankans demand justice for slain editor COLOMBO: Sri Lankan journalists yesterday demanded justice for a renowned newspaper editor gunned down by attackers on motorcycles, complaining no arrests have been made in the case a year after his killing. Lasantha Wickrematunge, editor of The Sunday Leader newspaper, was shot dead in his car by assailants on Jan 8, 2009. The paper had been critical of the government’s conduct in the war against the now-defeated Tamil Tiger rebels and reported on alleged human rights violations and government corruption.

Rights group Amnesty International has said at least 14 Sri Lankan journalists and media workers have been killed since the beginning of 2006, but none of these cases has been solved. Many have fled the country because of death threats. Some have been assaulted and others arrested. About 100 journalists gathered in the capital of Colombo and protested the failure to track down Wickrematunge’s killers. They also called for police to find the culprits involved in dozens of other attacks on members of the media. Protesters held placards that read “One year lapsed since Lasantha’s killing: Where are the Killers?” and “Stop Media Suppression.” Described by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as a “terrorist journalist,” Wickrematunge predicted his own assassination. “When finally I am killed, it will be the gov-

ernment that kills me,” Wickrematunge wrote in an obituary published after his death. Media watchdog Reporters Without Borders condemned “Wickrematunge’s unpunished murder” in a statement last week.

“The anger is being sustained by the government’s flagrant obstruction of the investigation,” the group said. “Lasantha Wickrematunge’s name and memory will not disappear and, in that sense, those who were behind his murder made a mistake.” Government comment was not available yesterday. Officials previously denied any government role in attacks against media members.

Media rights groups say Sri Lanka is among the most dangerous places for dissenting journalists. The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists has said at least 11 Sri Lankan reporters have been forced to flee the country in the past year. A lawyer for Sri Lankan journalist Jeyaprakash Tissainayagam said Monday his client will be released on bail pending an appeal after he was sentenced to 20 years in jail for “supporting terrorism.” Tissainayagam was arrested in 2008 after he wrote articles that accused the government of cutting off Tamilmajority areas from food and other essential items during its military offensive against the Tamil Tiger rebels. — AP

KABUL: Six people w ere killed yesterday in southern Afghanistan, w here protesters claiming that international troops destroyed copies of the Quran clashed w ith Afghan and foreign security forces, Afghan officials said. Also in the south, 13 insurgents w ere killed by a missile that international forces fired from an unmanned drone, NATO said. A NATO said only one person was killed during the protest , an insurgent sniper who allegedly shot at an Afghan official and was killed by NATO troops. A NATO spokesman denied that the foreign troops desecrated any copies of Islam’s holy book in Sunday’s operation with Afghan forces in Garmsir. Lt Nico Melendez said no shots were fired, and no property was damaged. “We take such allegations very seriously and would support a combined investigation with local Afghan authorities,” he said.

Afghanistan is a Muslim nation where blasphemy of Muhammad and the Quran is considered a serious crime that is punishable by death.

Similar allegations that US troops desecrated the Quran during an operation in October in Wardak province also sparked protests. US and Afghan authorities denied the allegation, insisting that the Taleban are spreading the rumor to stir up public anger.

Tensions have intensified in southern Afghanistan as US and other foreign troops step up their efforts to rout the Taleban. Coalition troops saw a group of insurgents near a safe house preparing ammunition as well as insurgent mortar teams moving equipment in the Naw Zad area of Helmand province, NATO said. The international force launched one missile, killing the 13 militants.

On Monday, another missile fired from an unmanned aircraft killed three insurgents farther south in the Nad Ali district of Helmand, according to NATO. Drone attacks are widely associated with the fight against Al-Qaeda and its allies in neighboring Pakistan, where the unmanned aircraft are used to go after militants in areas where US troops are banned from entering. But a NATO spokesman said the aircraft are also regularly used in Afghanistan.

“The use of drones is routine and drone strikes are something that we’re able to rely upon when we need them,” Lt. Nico Melendez said, adding that their use has not increased or decreased in recent months. Melendez said drones are used in Afghanistan for reconnaissance, aerial monitoring and for attacks. In the south-central part of the country, a member of the Afghan National Police was killed and two others were wounded in a suicide attack Monday evening at a police station in Uruzgan province, police chief Juma Gul Hamit said. The suicide bomber detonated his cache of explosives near the gate of the police chief’s office in Dihrawud district.

Hamit said the attacker tried to enter the office where a meeting was under way. Although wounded by police, the bomber detonated his explosive vest, killing the one policeman and injuring the two others who kept him from going inside.

In Paris, meanwhile, the French military said an army captain died yesterday of wounds suffered a day before during an insurgent ambush in the Alasay valley east of Kabul.

Another French soldier was killed instantly in the same ambush. Both casualties were with a joint Afghan and French army patrol that was attacked by small arms fire in a village market place. France has some 3,500 troops with NATO in Afghanistan. It has lost 38 men in Afghanistan since 2001.— AP

protest of about 2,000 people in Helmand province’s Garmsir district turned violent as demonstrators fought w ith security forces, leaving six civilians dead, according to the top official in the province, Abdullah Barak. Provincial spokesman Daoud Ahmadi confirmed six dead but did not say if they w ere civilians.

COLOMBO: Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksa lights an oil lamp set up on a model of a globe during the launch of his election manifesto in Colombo, Sri Lanka on Monday. — AP

Karzai’s female 3 Chinese arrested over cabinet picks praised factory accident in India KABUL: Afghan women’s activists praised President Hamid Karzai yesterday for nominating a record three women to his cabinet, and said it was now less likely that women’s rights would be hurt by negotiations with the Taleban. Two-thirds of ministers originally proposed by Karzai for his new cabinet were rejected by parliament last month, forcing him to re-write his list, which now contains three female nominees. Almost two months after Karzai’s inauguration following an election marred by fraud and widely criticised by the West, Afghans are still waiting to find out who will run their country.

Leading women’s rights activists are hopeful the female nominees will be approved by parliament this week. “We are trying to lobby for them and we are hopeful that they will be passed (by parliament),” said Sima Samar, head of Afghanistan’s independent human rights commission who was on a panel of leading Afghan women gathered in Kabul to discuss the presence of more women on Karzai’s new list.

“I hope that men in Afghanistan will show that all the allegations that they are against women’s rights in their country can be removed and they would take action and vote for these women.” Karzai has been under intense pres-

sure by Washington and its allies, which pump billions of dollars of aid each year into Afghanistan and collectively have nearly 110,000 troops battling a rising insurgency, to show he is dedicated to removing corrupt officials from his new administration.

Karzai has also pledged to reignite efforts to engage with the Taleban who are willing to lay down arms and are prepared to work with the government as part of counter-insurgency efforts to stabilize Afghanistan. The newly named female candidates include Suraya Dalil, a Harvard University graduate nominated for the job of public health minister. The other two are Palwasha Hassan, a well-known women’s rights advocate offered the women’s affairs ministry, and Amena Afzali offered the ministry of martyrs and the disabled.

“It is probably ... the first time we have the right person for the ministry of women’s affairs and the right person for the ministry of public health, at least these I can assure you of,” Ashraf said. “(Hassan is) not there because she belongs to a certain ethnic group, she’s there because professionally she has been doing this work for the last 15 years,” said Orzala Ashraf, a leading women’s rights activist who was also on the panel. — Reuters

NEW DELHI: Three Chinese engineers were arrested and charged yesterday in the deaths of 40 factory workers killed when a chimney collapsed at the power plant they were building in central India, a police officer said. The accident occurred in September when the 820-foot-(250-meter-) tall chimney came crashing down on the plant’s cafeteria as the workers had tea. The power plant, owned by Bharat Aluminum Co., or BALCO, was being built by a Chinese construction company with the help of local contractors in Korba, about 600 miles (960 kilometers) southeast of New Delhi. The Chinese engineers were arrested yesterday at the end of police investigation that charged them with culpable homicide not amounting to murder, R K Vij, inspector-general of police, told The Associated Press.

If convicted, they can be jailed for up to 10 years. The engineers were employed by the Shandong Electric Power Construction Corporation (SEPCO) that was building the 1,200 megawatts thermal power plant in central India, the Press Trust of India news agency said. Police arrested four Indian officials soon after the accident in September. — AP

Taleban storm Pakistan army post, kill soldier KHAR: Dozens of Taleban insurgents stormed a Pakistani military post in a tribal town near the Afghan border yesterday, killing one paramilitary soldier and wounding three others, officials said. More than 30 militants attacked the checkpost in the mountainous town of Ghanan Shah in northwest Mohmand district before dawn.

“They came from three sides and attacked the post with automatic weapons and rocket launchers,” local administration official Zabit Khan told AFP. “One soldier was killed and three were wounded.”A military official confirmed the casualties and said security forces retaliated, killing four Taleban attack-

ers. The post is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Khar, the main town in the troubled tribal region of Bajaur.

Pakistan’s military launched a major operation against insurgents in Bajaur in August 2008.

In February 2009, they said the area had been cleared, but unrest still rocks the region and army operations have continued.

Pakistan’s tribal belt has become a stronghold for Islamist extremists who fled Afghanistan after a US-led invasion toppled the hardline Taleban regime in late 2001, and Islamabad had launched multiple offensives in the region. — AFP

OPINION

12

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Chill back in US-Cuba ties after initial thaw

By Jeff Franks

A

chill reminiscent of the Cold War is back in US-Cuban relations after hopes for warmer ties under US President Barack Obama dissipated amid familiar disputes over the US trade embargo, terrorism and spying. After a year of relative civility and cautious praise for Obama, Cuban leaders are again angrily upbraiding Washington over the arrest of an American contractor in Havana last month and over Cuba’s objection to being included in a US list of nations considered “state sponsors of terrorism.”

Cuba protested to the top US diplomat in Havana against its “unjust” inclusion on the list, which will mean extra security measures for US-bound air passengers from Cuba following a botched Christmas Day bomb attack aboard a US-bound airliner. Havana has also revived accusations of hostile US spying and “subversion” by saying the contractor, who it says was arrested last month for distributing satellite communications equipment to Cuban dissidents, worked for “American secret services.” Washington denies the man was a spy.

Whether the turn for the worse is just a bump in the road or signals a slide back to normally bad US-Cuba relations will depend on how Obama responds to Cuba and what the communist-led island does with the contractor, analysts said. If Cuba throws him in prison for a long sentence, US-Cuba relations would almost certainly suffer. “Given the sensitive nature of the case, it is clear both sides are going to be treading very carefully and any plans for bold diplomatic outreach are likely to be put on hold,” said Dan Erikson at the Inter-American Dialogue think tank in Washington.

There has been speculation Cuba could use the contractor as a bargaining chip to try to secure release for five convicted Cuban intelligence agents serving long US sentences for espionage charges that linked them to Havana’s 1996 shoot-down of private planes piloted by Cuban exiles near Cuba. The latest tensions illustrate how a turbulent history weighs on USCuba ties and complicates attempts at change.

Cuban President Raul Castro said the case of the contractor, whose name has not been released, showed Washington had not abandoned its policy of trying to overthrow the Cuban socialist system established after the 1959 revolution. “The encouragement of open and undercover subversion in Cuba is growing. The enemy is as active as ever,” Castro said in a Dec. 21 speech to

the Cuban parliament. The arrested man’s employer, M a r y l a n d - b a s e d Development Alternatives Inc, said he was visiting the island under a US federal program to “strengthen civil society in support of just and democratic governance in Cuba.”

Stepping up its criticism of the US president, Cuba has said it is angry with Obama because, despite his stated desire last year to seek a “new beginning” with the island, he has not ended old policies that have long blocked better ties. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez last month slammed Obama as “imperial” and “arrogant,” using terms that were often hurled

by Havana at his predecessor George W Bush.

Cuba’s inclusion on the US terrorism list goes back to 1982. It was placed there under President Ronald Reagan due to US worries about communist influence in Central America. Phil Peters at the Lexington Institute think tank in Arlington, Virginia, said Obama needed to move ahead with a full overhaul of Cuba policy promised by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during her confirmation hearings.

“The fact is that President Obama takes office with 50 years of encrusted policy that just cries out for review, and a lot of it should just be thrown overboard,” Peters said.

Erikson said Cuba also needs to do more. Obama’s overtures so far “have been ridiculed and denounced by top Cuban leaders, which has dampened any enthusiasm for greater outreach by the US,” he said. Obama’s Cuba policy initiatives have been modest, limited to a slight easing of the long-standing US trade embargo against Cuba by lifting restrictions on Cuban American travel to the island and remittances sent to relatives. He also has initiated talks on migration and possible resumption of USCuba mail service, and cleared the way for US telecommunications companies to operate in Cuba.

Analysts say Obama has more pressing domestic and foreign priorities to tackle than Cuba and also faces pressure at home from legislators and groups opposed to change in Cuba policy. But Cuba-watchers say “peopleto-people” contact could still be increased by loosening the US travel ban in place for most Americans as part of the embargo dating back to 1962. “If you want to bring about change, change by example,” said Florida cattleman John Parke Wright, a frequent visitor to Cuba. “Let American business and tourism flourish, and I guarantee there’ll be changes here (in Cuba).” — Reuters

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Ombudsman moving Morocco forward

By Moulay M’Hamed Iraki

E

stablished in 2001 by royal decree, the ombudsman office in Morocco, the Diwan Al Madhalim (the Office of Grievances), started its operations in April 2004. It was enthusiastically welcomed by Moroccan political circles and human rights organisations and was tasked with the difficult mission of reducing injustice, arbitrary treatment and abuse of power in relationships between Morocco’s public service sector and its citizens, and encouraging public servants to adhere to the rule of law.

Nearly six years later, it is worth taking a look back to assess the usefulness of this institution in Morocco and its standard-setting value in the region.

The ombudsman, or protector of the citizen, is meant to ensure citizens receive fair and just treatment in their relations with public authorities. In Morocco, the authorities sometimes refuse to enforce judicial decisions. In such cases, the ombudsman is responsible for the defence of aggrieved citizens, although it cannot and must not interfere in the judicial process itself.

Of all the complaints that have come under the jurisdiction of the institution, 30 per cent of those declared admissible and well-founded have been taken up with the departments concerned mainly local authorities, public education, justice and finance.

In view of its crosscutting mandate, which gives it jurisdiction over the entire public administration sector, the Office of Grievances is also in charge of proposing reforms to improve the performance of all administrative, legal and judicial services. A follow-up of all complaints submitted to the institution had revealed a number of recurring problems pointing to structural deficiencies.

To correct this, several practical corrective measures were suggested to the prime minister, and other proposals concerning corruption matters were submitted to the king.

Several measures were taken, including the appointment of a special representative in the ombudsman’s office in charge of processing corruption cases in coordination with the Justice Department; the development of a national awareness programme in the fight against corruption; a nationwide declaration against corruption; the adoption of a charter of rights and duties for the public service sector; and the creation of a new legal process to monitor government procurements.

In order to encourage government departments to follow up on complaints, the Office of Grievances adopted a new approach based on direct contact with relevant department heads in joint committees held at regular intervals. The ombudsman thus reminds civil servants that they cater to the needs of Moroccan citizens. In order to establish better communication networks, both internally and externally, the institution also set up a website (www.dam.ma) which records over 1,800,000 visits a year.

Seven editions of the institution’s magazine, Diwan Al Madhalim, were also distributed to 150 foreign diplomatic missions with a view to strengthening links with other countries. The presence of the Moroccan ombudsman on the international scene is of major importance, specifically through its work in the Association of Mediterranean Ombudsmen (AMO), of which it is a founding member and current president, the Association of Francophone Ombudsmen and Mediators (AOMF), where it holds the vice-presidency, and the regional net-

work of Arab Ombudsmen, of which it is a founding member.

In its efforts to guide Moroccan society towards an increased appreciation of human rights values and equity, the Office of Grievances is also active in the area of education and training.

In this respect, Frederic Bovesse,

mediator of the Walloon Region in Belgium, and former President of AOMF, stated that “through its activities and initiatives in Morocco and abroad, the Office of Grievances is now a respected advocate of the defence of human rights and values in the francophone area.”

NOTE: Moulay M’Hamed Iraki has been President of the Ombudsman office in Morocco since 2006. He is also a member of the Human Rights Consultative Council (CCDH), and President of Chamber at the Supreme Court of Morocco— CGNews

Give fur the cold shoulder

By Paula Moore

O

ld Man Winter is here - and he’s packing a punch.

While New Englanders are digging out from record snowfalls, farmers in Florida are scrambling to save their crops from freezing temperatures. The wintry weather has snarled traffic, forced airlines to cancel flights, burst water mains - and been blamed for several deaths around the nation. You’d better bundle up: Roughly two-thirds of the United States is feeling the chill, and meteorologists warn that more arctic air is on the way.

The frightful weather might have you shivering, but unless you want to look as cold as you feel, don’t reach for a fur to keep you warm. As fashion guru Tim Gunn of “Project Runway” fame puts it, “Wearing fur is like wearing a big sign reading, ‘I’m in favor of inflicting cruelty and pain on animals as a fashion statement.’” Surely the frigid temperatures haven’t left you that frosty.

Every year, millions of animals are killed for their fur and there is simply no kind way to rip the skin off animals’ backs. In the wild, animals are caught in snares and steeljaw traps that slam down on their limbs, often cutting down to the bone and mutilating the animals’ legs and paws.

Although steel-jaw traps are illegal in a few parts of the world, they are still permitted in almost all fur-producing countries. Rabbits, foxes and other animals on fur farms are crammed into barren metal cages, with no protection from the driving rain or the scorching sun. Mother animals go crazy from rough handling and confinement. They often kill their babies after giving birth. Disease and injuries are widespread, and animals suffering from anxiety-induced psychosis chew on their own limbs and throw themselves repeatedly against the cage bars.

Fur farmers use the cheapest and cruelest killing methods available, including neck-breaking, genital electrocution, poisoning and gassing. When PETA went undercover on a fur farm in Michigan, our investigators documented that chinchillas writhed in pain and panic after their necks had been broken. Other chinchillas were electrocuted without prior stunning - meaning that they suffered the agonizing pain of a full-blown heart attack until their hearts finally stopped beating.

In China, the world’s leading fur exporter, not even dogs and cats are safe from the coldblooded fur trade. Chinese fur traders stuff cats and dogs - some of whom are still wearing their collars - into flimsy wire-mesh cages, transport them hundreds of miles without food or water and then bludgeon or strangle the terrified animals so that their fur can be turned into trim on a coat.

Wearing real fur is coldhearted - and it’s not even the best way to beat the chill. Synthetics are both warmer and lighter than real fur, which is why revolutionary fabrics such as Polarguard, Thinsulate and Polartec are consistently chosen over fur and down for polar expeditions. And you can bet that mountain climbers, hikers and other sporty types who head outside when temperatures drop are not wearing mink coats to fend off the winter wind. Faux fur also retains heat as well as real fur, is more durable and, unlike real fur, can be tossed in the washing machine when it gets dirty.

As the arctic air settles in, don’t let it put your compassion in a deep freeze. With so many stylish and toasty alternatives to fur available, there’s simply no excuse to wear the real thing.

NOTE: Paula Moore is a research specialist for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals— MCT

Hope for post-racial US fades after remarks S

By Steven R Hurst

enate majority leader Harry Reid’s remarks about Barack Obama, only the latest such eruption since America’s first black president took office a year ago, probably say more about the state of race relations in the United States than they do about Obama. The political uproar, not unexpected in today’s fiercely partisan US political climate, flared immediately. Less examined is what Reid’s words say about the latent and overt racism that envelops Obama and the US Americans are far from the postracial era some thought had dawned with the 2008 election.

Reid has not disputed a new book that quotes him as saying in 2008 that he thought Obama was a good candidate because he was a “light-skinned” AfricanAmerican “with no Negro dialect, unless he wanted to have one”. The senator has twice apologized. Obama said the matter is closed. But in or out of context, those are tough words to explain.

“By saying what Reid said, are you then proposing ‘Obama shouldn’t have been elected if he was darker skinned and spoke with an African-American dialect?’” asked Anita L Allen, the first tenured black female professor at the University of

Pennsylvania law school. She was quick to say Reid’s remarks did not offend her, but the reac-

tion to them showed that “race unfortunately is not the thing we thought it was: a problem to

be overcome. There was the false expectation that putting a very competent black man at

In this file photo taken May 26, 2009, US President Barack Obama stands with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid at a fundraising event in Las Vegas. – AP

the helm would solve our problems racial or otherwise.”

That pretty well sums up the periodic outbreak of race-related remarks during Obama’s candidacy and year in office, among them: • Republicans are crying foul, insisting Reid lose his Senate leadership job. That is what happened to Republican Senate leader Trent Lott when he suggested in 2002 that a 1948 presidential victory for segregationist Sen. Strom Thurmond would have been a good thing for the country.

• In an upcoming interview in Esquire magazine, ousted Illinois Gov Rod Blagojevich claimed he’s “blacker than Barack Obama”. He apologized Monday for equating his childhood of shining shoes with Obama.

• Obama was heavily criticized for the so-called “Beer Summit” to mediate between a black Harvard professor and a white policeman who mistakenly arrested the respected scholar for trying to break into his own home. Obama called the two together for a beer after suggesting the police had overreacted. He later said he should not have made that judgment without knowing all the facts.

• Former Democratic President Jimmy Carter made a point after Obama’s inaugura-

tion of blaming racism as the motivation of much of the opposition to Obama policy initiatives.

• Vice President Joe Biden, when he was still challenging Obama for the nomination, famously said the Illinois senator was “the first mainstream African-American (presidential candidate) who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy.”

• Racially charged remarks

by Obama’s Chicago pastor nearly derailed his candidacy, forcing the candidate to give his Philadelphia speech that was broadly hailed as a defining exposition of relations among the races in the United States.

Through it all, Obama has largely sought to ignore or downplay his race and what others say about it. But the racially tinged outbursts have served as major distractions for a president pushing a provocative legislative agenda, struggling with an economy still teetering between recession and recovery, and overseeing two unpopular wars while battling an Islamic militancy determined to inflict pain on the United States.

It is impossible to speculate on how those distractions have weighed on Obama. He does not say. It is certain they have cost him valuable time. — AP

ANALYSIS

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

13

Vote defeat looms for Chile’s ruling bloc

By Simon Gardner

C

hile’s leftist coalition is scrambling to maintain its two-decade rule in a presidential vote on Sunday, but even policy concessions, resignations and mocking campaign ads are unlikely to avoid a shift to the right.

Its candidate, former President Eduardo Frei, has struggled to galvanize a divided left and faces an uphill battle to defeat conservative favorite, billionaire Sebastian Pinera, in a Sunday run-off which is expected to be very tight.

Pinera led a December first round vote, and is seen winning the run-off in an isolated switch to the right in a region dominated by leftist governments. However, few expect any major change to policies that have made the world’s No. 1 copper producer a beacon of stability, whoever wins.

Many voters feel the ruling coalition, which has ruled since General Augusto Pinochet’s dictatorship ended in 1990, has not done enough to distribute billions of dollars in copper earnings through social programs and to improve education and healthcare, mostly for the growing middle class.

Voters are also exasperated at a lack of renewal of Chile’s political old guard, and 67-year-old Frei, whose 1994-2000 presidency was rocked by recession amid the Asian financial crisis, is paying the price. “They’re desperate. For the first time in 20 years they’re about to lose power,” said Daniel Kerner, an analyst with the Eurasia Group risk consultancy.

Pinera took 44 percent of the vote in December’s first round, and Frei almost 30 percent. It was the first time in decades a rightist has taken the most votes in a presidential race in Chile,

Sebastian Pinera, the presidential candidate of the opposition center-right Coalition for Change (left) and Eduardo Frei, candidate of the government center-left coalition, shake hands during their last televised debate before the upcoming runoff presidential election in Santiago on Monday. – AP which is also a major salmon, wine and fruit exporter. Frei is striving to woo independent Marco EnriquezOminami, who took 20 percent of the vote in December and missed the runoff, and his supporters. The maverick former film producer had defected from the ruling coalition and divided the left.

“I think it’s going to be very tight. I would still think Pinera’s favorite, but I think Frei is really having a very difficult time coming up with ... a clear mes-

sage that appeals to the electorate,” Kerner added.

There have been no countrywide opinion polls since the December vote.

Analysts and polls focused on a cluster of major cities say Pinera is the favorite to win a close-fought race. Frei has vowed to continue with the social programs of President Michelle Bachelet, who is very popular but is barred from running for re-election under the constitution. He has been unable to capital-

ize on her high approval rating. His campaign has also sought to link Pinera’s right with Pinochet and has taken aim at the airline magnate’s wealth in television spots, implying he is trying to buy the presidential sash.

Frei says his priorities include a labor reform to strengthen workers’ hands in collective wage negotiations through the creation of more unions.

Pinera vows to use corporate tax breaks and hiring incentives to lure

investment and reinvigorate growth, and has also proposed selling up to 20 percent of state copper giant Codelco, the world’s top producer. Frei has adopted several of Enriquez-Ominami’s policies, vowing to overhaul the tax system and boost revenue from mining royalties. He has also accepted blame for coalition errors. “Clearly there is fatigue, there have been errors,” Frei told foreign correspondents in Santiago on Friday. “People are upset because politics have not modernized in step with the country ... We have taken responsibility for that malaise.”

Leaders of two of the coalition’s four constituent parties resigned to meet another demand of Enriquez-Ominami, but the move backfired when two other party heads refused to go. That only highlighted coalition divisions and infighting.

Enriquez-Ominami says Pinera is not his candidate, and represents a step backward for Chile. But he also says Frei is “no advance”, and has so far refused to openly endorse him.

Analysts say they believe any explicit endorsement of Frei by EnriquezOminami would likely have minimal impact this late in the campaign.

Marta Lagos, director of pollster MORI in Chile, estimates 90 percent of Chilean voters have already made up their minds, and expects a large number of spoiled votes and a low turnout.

“The Concertacion (ruling coalition) has ruled putting out fires. It has no master plan,” Lagos said. “They made all the errors imaginable ... This is a spectacular kamikaze.” “Voters are punishing the Concertacion ... which has a majority,” she added.

“Ultimately, it is the Concertacion which is losing rather than Pinera who is winning.” —Reuters

N Korea digs economic hole one won note at a time

By Jon Herskovitz

N

orth Korea’s decision to wage war on its burgeoning merchant class by reasserting state control over the economy could turn out to be a rare misstep for Kim Jong-il that poses risks to his iron grip over the hermit state. Kim may be looking to keep the masses in check through more repression, give quasi-state firms run by his supporters a boost by wiping out competition and secure capital to pay for an ambitious campaign to build “a prosperous nation” by 2012.

The moves include lopping two noughts off the value of the won, which cut the worth of savings to a hundredth unless, according to one report, they are deposited in state banks. It also banned the use of foreign currency, a move likely aimed at merchants who operate outside the centrally planned economy, often by purchasing goods in China in dollars, euros and yuan.

The North also upgraded the status of a city it has designated as a foreign investment zone, in what may be another attempt to gain control of the faltering economy. “The North Korean currency reform is an economically misguided initiative that will reduce the welfare of North Korean residents,” economists Marcus Noland and Stephan Haggard wrote in a paper for the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

“Preliminary signs suggest the regime is leaving nothing to chance and that heightened repression is a central feature of the new economic controls,” they said.

The North Korean economy has taken hits from fresh UN sanctions imposed after its nuclear test last May. It has also lost handouts from the South due to wrangling over Pyongyang’s atomic ambitions that were once worth more than $1 billion a year for the country with an estimated annual GDP of $17 billion.

North Korea’s market-based economy grew after a famine in the late 1990s killed an estimated 1 million of the coun-

try’s then 22 million people as citizens saw state distribution systems as failures and turned to merchants for necessities.

The currency moves have raised the real prices even higher for essentials impoverished North Koreans were already having trouble buying due to persistent inflation and reduced the few goods they can buy by restricting external trade with China. Merchants risked imprisonment for operating outside of the state economy if they drew attention to themselves by converting large cash holdings in the small window North Korea allowed people to change over money, which likely led to considerable losses for those selling food, clothes and appliances.

Noland said in a separate interview that the North’s leaders could face problems if they tried to enforce the foreign currency ban on military and security offices, which run quasi-state businesses that funnel funds to the leaders of those groups. “If you look at North Korea, there are no civil society institutions capable of channelling mass discontent,” he said. “The one real chance for political instability is if they try to enforce the ban on foreign exchange for the military and security services.”

The North has been able to stamp out dissent through regular purges of its leadership, a suffocating internal spy network and a massive political prison system where anyone thought to be working against the state is jailed, often with their families. North Korea’s authoritarian institutions are such that it has never seen mass protests or a noted dissident class. “The first public rallies we see in North Korea will not be about freedom or democracy, but they will be about livelihood,” said Kay Seok, a researcher in the Asian Division for Human Rights Watch in Seoul.

For the past five years, North Korea has been trying to exert more influence over the economy, which has only grown weaker since Kim Jong-il took over in 1994 due to mismanagement. The recent

measures appear to be linked to Kim’s plans, highly touted at home, to turn North Korea into a “great and prosperous state” and to help him win support to name his youngest son as successor to Asia’s only communist dynasty, analysts have said.

It will not be easy for Kim, 67, who was groomed for about 20 years before

taking over when his father and state founder Kim Il-sung died in 1994, to anoint his son Kim Jong-un as successor.

Jong-un has never been mentioned in official media and he has yet to establish firm support with the powerful military and ruling Workers’ Party. “The (currency) measure has significantly strengthened the regime’s control over the econ-

omy and the people for the time being,” said Park Hyeong-jung at the Korea Institute for National Unification.

But Kim is fighting a losing battle, Park said. In a sign the currency plan may have met with resistance, authorities in the North appeared to have had to hand out bigger cash benefits to certain groups of workers, Park said. — Reuters

Pain in Spain tests social calm

By Jason Webb

I

n just two years, Spain has gone from being Europe’s biggest job creator to the fastest destroyer of jobs. With unemployment close to 4 million or 19 percent of the workforce and rising, the country that holds the European Union’s rotating presidency faces a long and painful road to regain lost economic competitiveness within the euro zone. Whether Spain becomes the next Greece, risking the loss of financial market confidence due to soaring debt and deficits, may depend on Spaniards’ willingness to endure years of falling living standards.

“My feeling is the Spanish collective psyche is going to snap at some point because they’re still expecting recovery just round the corner,” says Barcelona-based economist Edward Hugh.

Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero has bought social peace so far by resisting pressure from business and the European Commission to loosen rigid job protection which creates high barriers to hiring and firing workers. Zapatero promised trade unions, which threatened a general strike if workers’ benefits were touched, that he would not change labour laws to make it easier to lay off employees. But the cost of protecting the employed is being paid in the failure to create new jobs for refugees from the collapsed construction sector and other downsizing industries. The Socialist government hopes global recovery will spark a Spanish economic revival before the 2012 general election without having to slash welfare spending or ease firing rules.

Economists are unconvinced. Hugh argues most Spaniards have yet to realise the scale of trouble awaiting them as the economy undergoes the deflation needed to regain competitiveness and remain in the euro zone. Despite the growing number of boarded-up businesses and idle building sites, consumer confidence data shows many people expect the economy to bounce back soon, he said. The Greek jitters hit the value of the euro, as doubts appeared about the capacity of the single currency area to withstand a possible fiscal collapse by one of its mem-

bers.

But despite a cut in Spain’s debt outlook by ratings agency Standard & Poor’s last month, Spanish 10-year treasury bonds trade at only about 60 basis points over benchmark German bunds, compared to a spread of about 228 for Greek bonds. This is partly because Spain’s public debt still stands at just 55 percent of gross domestic product, half Greece’s level and well below the euro zone average.

Brian Coulton of Fitch rating agency contrasted Madrid’s fiscal track record with that of Greece. “We’ve seen periods of major debt reduction in Spain through this decade, and the Greek government despite GDP growth of 4 percent a year, has failed to make any inroads in debt reduction,” he said. But he warned that Spain must move fast now. “The urgency has increased in Spain’s case because of the extent of the negative fiscal surprise which is much bigger than envisaged in June.

We’re expecting (a budget deficit of) 12.5 pct of GDP in 2009,” he said.

Sara Balina of Analistas Financieros Internacionales was cautiously optimistic, although cautioning that Spain’s future economic growth potential would be capped at 1.5-2 percent. “It is possible spreads might rise against the euro area benchmark, Germany, but we won’t go back to the levels of 2009,” she said, referring to the moment when Standard & Poor’s cut its credit rating to AA+ from AAA. Hugh said bond market tension could occur if Spanish banks struggled with rising property defaults.

Charles Dumas of Lombard Street Research reckons Spain needs to regain 15-20 percentage points of competitiveness against euro zone benchmark Germany following years of relatively high growth in consumer prices. Since euro membership rules out devaluation, Spaniards face continued savage deflation.

“We’re not going to bounce out of this problem into new sunny uplands, we’re going to bounce along the bottom until something gives,” Dumas said. “So far it’s been a financial crisis and an economic crisis, but the next round is going to be politics,” he said. — Reuters

Karzai cabinet a return to patronage politics A

By Sardar Ahmad

fghan President Hamid Karzai’s second attempt to form a cabinet has raised concerns of a return to patronage politics with a batch of largely unknown figures who appear to come with useful connections. Analysts said many of the new names submitted Saturday for parliament’s approval - to replace 17 nominees rejected by lawmakers earlier this month - have little or no experience in government, raising the risk of failure. Karzai is battling to form a functioning government and end a political crisis in the war-ravaged nation that has dragged on since he was returned to power in a fraud-tainted presidential election in August.

The president last week ordered parliament to cancel its winter recess to consider new nominations after it threw out 17 of his 24 original choices in a Jan 3 vote. Sixteen new nominees presented themselves to parliament on Saturday, including proposed foreign minister Zalmi Rasool, and lawmakers will grill them this week before

a secret ballot likely next week.

Another two names will be put forward in the coming days for the water and power and telecommunications ministries, Vice President Mohammad Karim Khallili said.

“Most of these guys are unknown to the Afghan people,” said analyst Haroun Mir, noting that many nominees are aligned with warlords and minor political parties that supported Karzai in the election. Mir, director of Afghanistan’s Centre for Research and Policy Studies, said no one who had delivered Karzai regional or ethnic blocs of votes had been left out, in what appeared to be a return to the politics of reward for support. “Karzai wants to survive and survival means for him no organised opposition.

So no one is left out of

the government from

the traditional groups and parties,” he said.

Parliament’s initial rejection of 17 names was seen as a huge blow to the US-backed leader, who is under enormous pressure to prove his commitment to clean and competent government in return for ongoing Western support to rebuild the country and fight Taleban insurgents.

Diplomats said Karzai wants a functioning government in place ahead of an international conference in London on January 28 to discuss a road map for the country’s future.

The new list includes three women after the sole female nominee was initially rejected, but analysts said political connections and not competence appeared to be the main qualification for many in the new line-up. Other nominees have links to powerful warlords who helped Karzai in the August election, analysts said.

At least one is aligned with feared Uzbek warlord General Abdul Rashid Dostam;

two are associated with former president and warlord Burhanuddin Rabbani; and several with Haji Mohammad Mohaqiq, an ethnic Hazara former militia leader.

Also on the list is economy portfolio nominee Abdul Hadi Arghandiwal, a former member of Hizb-i-Islami who now leads a pro-government wing of the moderate Islamist party. “When you look at connections some of them have to warlords, Islamist parties or plain old crooks, it really does look like a return to the bad old days of rewarding your mates with a lucrative government job,” a Western diplomat said on condition of anonymity.

Analysts said that while the new nominees represent a cross-section of Afghanistan’s ethnic mix of Pashtun, Uzbek, Tajik and Hazara, the common thread was lack of experience.

“There are people among them who represent different groups and individuals,” said Kabul University law professor Nasrullah Stanikzai. “If these people do not give up their factional loyalties, this could be a big problem for Karzai. If they

give up on their loyalties and work as a team loyal to Karzai things will be fine. But I don’t think that’s going to happen.”

Mir also said that proposed counter-narcotics minister Zarar Ahmad Muqbel had a reputation for bureaucratic weakness. “He has already proven to be weak when he was interior minister. He was one of the weak ministers in the past and I don’t expect him to do any better in the new job,” Mir said.

Muqbel served briefly as interior minister until being replaced in late 2008 under pressure from Karzai’s Western allies by Mohammad Hanif Atmar, who has few powerful backers but is regarded as a success.

A UN official who asked not to be named said that as interior minister “Muqbel had totally failed the ministry,” overseeing a rise in crime to record levels.

Afghanistan is the world’s biggest opium grower supplying more than 90 percent of the globe’s illicit drugs which the country’s Western allies spend hundreds of millions of dollar every year to eradicate. — AFP

focus

More halal foods on Europe store shelves

By Maren Martell

G

ummi Bears are ubiquitous in Germany, where they are a beloved, fruity delight for children of all backgrounds. The squishy candy would seem like the most innocuous treat imaginable, but their gelatine base - processed from animal proteins including pork - made Gummi Bears off limits for children from observant Muslim households.

“Muslims in Germany wanted them, too, but for a long time couldn’t eat them,” said Engin Erguen, whose sales and distribution company Equ sells products that meet Muslim halal standards.

In 2001, candy-maker Haribo started making Gummi Bears with proteins derived from nonpork products to receive halal certification. Haribo says the production line for the halal gummy bear sold in Germany is in Turkey. Halal products from Equ are sold at about 3,000 Turkish markets in Germany, including Haribo’s iconic candy and Maggi processed foods. “With Haribo, the subject of halal foods in Germany received the appropriate amount of publicity,” said Erguen.

Germany has about 3.5 million of Western Europe’s 20 million Muslims, most of whom are immigrants or the descendents of immigrants who came to the continent in the decades after World War II. Muslims in Western Europe have long struggled to maintain their cultural and culinary practises. Evolution in the market has brought more than just halal Gummi Bears to grocery stores on the continent.

About 400 companies in Germany offer halal products, according to the European halal control and certification authority in Ruesselsheim. “The trend is upward. The market grows about 16 per cent every year,” said Mahmoud Tatari, who co-founded the halal control authority in 2001. “It currently is estimated at between 4 billion and 5 billion euros.” Tatari speaks of a proper boom in products that are halal, an Arabic word meaning legal or

permitted (helal in Turkish). The opposite of halal is haram, which means forbidden or impermissible.

Generally, foods derived from plants are halal with the exception of intoxicating or poisonous products, according to the German nutrition society.

Interest is growing among companies that want to offer products for the Muslim market because trade in halal products is growing not only in Germany and Europe but worldwide, with Muslims projected to be 30 per cent of the world population by 2025. The largest halal markets are in Malaysia, Indonesia and the Middle East. In Europe, Germany, France and Britain are the largest.

Pork, a staple of the German diet, has been especially problematic for Muslims because Islam prohibits all contact with pigs, which are considered unclean. The halal control authority certifies products made by many of the major European food producers, including Nestle, Langnese, Elbmilch, Pfanni, Gruenland and Ehrmann.

Products made by the pharmaceuticals firms Bayer, BASF and Merck similarly carry the halal stamp. “Food products account for about 90 per cent of the certified items,” Tatari said.

Across Europe there are more than 4,000 halal products on the market. Retailers have discovered halal, giving rise to inquiries from Germany’s leading discount grocery chain, Aldi.

Industry analysts estimate that food product giants such as Nestle have made more money on halal products than on organic products.

The Swiss company, which began producing halal foods in the 1980s, attributed 5 per cent of its revenue last year to halal products. Over the years, Nestle has come out with halal drinks, dairy products and chocolate and has more than 300 halal products.

“Of 456 Nestle factories worldwide, 75 have a halal certification, and among them there are more than 100 production lines,” said company spokeswoman Nina Backes. — dpa

Latam immigrants transform Madrid

By Sinikka Tarvainen

I

n the working class Madrid neighbourhood of Carabanchel, many shops display cassava, yam, large green bananas and mangoes alongside typical Spanish fruits and vegetables. People of different skin colours pass in front of call centres advertising cheap calls to Latin America. They all speak Spanish, but with varying accents. The presence of immigrants from Spain’s former colonies across the Atlantic has turned Madrid into one of the world’s most Latin cities outside South and Central America and the Caribbean.

“It has been a tremendous change,” says Peruvian journalist Jose Luis Salvatierra, recalling a Madrid with hardly any hints of Latin America 14 years ago, when he helped launch the Latin magazine Ocio Latino.

Over the last decade, the foreign population of the Madrid region has soared from about 2 per cent to 18 per cent of the region’s 6 million residents. Nearly half of the newcomers are Latin Americans, who make up 37 per cent of Spain’s total 5 million foreign nationals. Spain has more Latin Americans than any other European Union country.

The Latin Americans come from Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, the Dominican Republic, Argentina, Chile, Venezuela, Uruguay, Paraguay, Cuba and other countries. Their arrival has turned Spain’s strong ties to its former colonies from “rhetoric to reality,” Madrid senior immigration official Javier Fernandez-Lasquetty says.

Spain’s Latin press sector, for instance, has expanded so much and become so profitable that Spanish entrepreneurs are taking it over, Ocio Latino director Salvatierra told dpa.

Ocio Latino now faces competition from around half a dozen similarly orientated, free magazines and newspapers, and Madrid has at least a dozen unofficial Latin American radio stations. An estimated 5,000 Latin American entrepreneurs run bars, restaurants and discotheques, import products ranging

from Peruvian drinks to Colombian underwear, and manage other companies in the Spanish capital.

Spanish supermarkets have caught on to the trend, offering South American foodstuffs, while Spanish as well as Latin American banks provide services for immigrants sending money home. Madrid has a lively Latin American cultural scene, with writers, painters, actors and photographers bringing new influences to Spain.

“Some of the writers had not published anything in their countries of origin but launched careers in Spain and have even won Spanish awards,” Salvatierra points out.

Musicians and filmmakers are also merging their Latin American roots with European influences, though the new cultural expressions that are in the making are still difficult to define, Cuban documentary filmmaker Tony Romero says. Latin Americans are also slowly gaining some political power as regional legislators or officials, and within political parties. Latin Americans share a language, Roman Catholic faith and other key cultural features with Spaniards, allowing them to integrate into Spanish society easier than migrants from other countries.

Immigrants from South and Central America and the Caribbean have even given a new boost to some Spanish traditions, such as religious processions in veneration of the Virgin Mary, or small-time commerce, Salvatierra says. About 15 per cent of marriages in the Madrid region involve a foreign partner, and cross-cultural friendships are forged all the time. “When there was an earthquake in Peru a few years back, Madrid residents worried about it as if it had happened here,” FernandezLasquetty said at a recent Latin American cultural festival in Madrid.

The apparently easy integration does not mean that there is no prejudice against Latin Americans, some of whom have even been attacked by skinheads. — dpa

NEWS

14

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Hundreds of Yemeni rebels slain in clashes Four Saudi soldiers killed RIYADH/SANAA: Hundreds of Yemeni Shiite infiltrators have been slain in border clashes, a top Saudi defence official said yesterday, after state media said four Saudi soldiers were killed in the fighting with the rebels. Separately, Yemeni forces killed 19 rebels in sweeps to rid the old city of a north Yemeni town of Shiite rebel hideouts, Yemen’s Interior Ministry said. About 25 rebels were arrested.

Yemen, the Arab world’s poorest nation, came to the foreground of US-led efforts to battle militancy after a Yemenbased wing of Al-Qaeda said it was behind a failed Dec 25 plot to bomb a US-bound airliner. Saudi Arabia launched its assault on Yemen’s Shiite Muslim rebels, known as Houthis, in the area near its border with Yemen in November after the insurgents killed two Saudi border guards in a cross-border incursion.

The latest deaths brought to 82 the number of Saudi troops killed in the border conflict with Yemeni Shiite rebels, state television said. On Dec 22, Riyadh said 73 troops had been killed in the fighting. Saudi state television, citing Assistant Minister of Defence Prince Khaled bin Sultan, reported that Yemeni rebel infiltrators had been given an ultimatum to leave the Al-Jabri area where the border post is located within 48 hours. “They did not comply ... All of them have been destroyed,” he said.

“The infiltrators inflicted upon them-

selves hundreds of deaths,” he told the television.

The United States and Saudi Arabia fear Al-Qaeda will take advantage of Yemen’s instability to spread its operations to the neighbouring kingdom, the world’s top oil exporter, and beyond.

Yemen itself produces a small amount of oil. Saudi Arabia has repeatedly said it has gained the upper hand in the conflict with the Yemeni rebels, but fighting has continued. Rebels, who say Saudi planes often bomb their areas, have rejected Saudi claims of success in the ground fighting but say many civilians have been killed.

Yemen said that its operation against the rebels, dubbed “Blow to the Head”, was continuing. The rebels have fought the government since 2004, complaining of social, economic and religious marginalisation. Yemen also faces separatist sentiment in the south and is fighting a resurgent Al-Qaeda in several provinces.

Security forces chasing Al-Qaeda militants in Shabwa province arrested four suspects after a clash, a security official said. Security forces were engaged in a clash with about 10 people who had fled to the house of a suspected Al-Qaeda militant, the official told Reuters.

The rebels, members of the minority Shiite Zaidi sect, have said they were the target of Saudi air strikes in recent days, and that their positions were of ten

pounded by Yemeni mortars. Rebel leader Abdul-Malik Al-Houthi said civilians were being targeted as a means of pressing rebels to end their fight. “It is clear, brothers, that the enemies made the targeting (of) civilians a basic strategy, and are trying through that to pressure us,” Houthi said in a statement posted on a rebel website.

He cited a series of strikes in December that he said killed more than 50 women and children, and said civilians had been attacked previously in their homes, markets and mosques by US, Saudi and Yemeni planes in what he termed “joint aggression”. “I call on you again to stop targeting civilians and stop your crimes against women and children.

If you have a desire or intent to fight us ... then fight us with honour so as to retain a minimum of your humanity,” Houthi said.

The conflict in Yemen’s mountainous north has killed hundreds and displaced tens of thousands.

Yemen has also started talks with kidnappers holding a German family of five and a Briton, a Yemeni minister said.

“The negotiations are now going on with the kidnappers of the German and British hostages,” Foreign Minister Abubakr AlQirbi told a news conference. German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle said in Sanaa on Monday that Yemeni authorities had located the German couple and their three children. — Reuters

Israel ‘hazes’ Turkish envoy Continued from Page 1 Ayalon delivered his dressing down while seated in a high chair while the Turkish ambassador Ahmet Celikkol was made to sit on a low sofa. Rather than summoning Celikkol to the ministry as is the norm, Ayalon saw him in his parliamentary office after making him wait in the cor ridor and telling staff to remove the Turkish flag and refreshments from the table. “The important thing is that people see that he’s sitting low down and we’re high and that there is one flag,” Israeli television aired Ayalon telling invited photographers and camera crews. Asked before the meeting whether he would shake hands with Celikkol, he replied, “No. That’s the point.”

In response, Turkey’s foreign ministry summoned the Israeli ambassador to Ankara, Gabby Levy, for a meeting to express its “annoyance”. The foreign ministry in Ankara said it expected “an explanation and apology” for “the attitude towards our ambassador in Tel Aviv which fell foul of diplomacy”. “We invite the Israeli foreign ministry to respect the rules of diplomatic courtesy,” the statement said. “Turkey expects steps to

be taken to compensate for the treatment of our ambassador.”

Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, a key actor in the bilateral tensions, said Israeli attitudes offending Turkey “will always get a response”.

The incident mirrored the deterioration in ties since Israel’s devastating offensive in Gaza one year ago, which triggered an outraged response from Erdogan at the time. Barak, who heads the centre-left Labour party, is scheduled to hold talks with his counterpart Vecdi Gonul, President Abdullah Gul and Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu during a visit which is due to begin on Sunday.

However Israel’s liberal Haaretz newspaper said that ultra-nationalist Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman sought to torpedo Barak’s attempts to mend ties with Turkey, which in the past has played a key role in mediating Israel’s indirect talks with Syria as well as with the Hamas r ulers of Gaza.

Lieberman’s ministry said the drama series threatened “Jewish lives in Turkey” and also rebuffed Erdogan’s criticism of a weekend air raid on Gaza, saying that Turkey “is in no position to preach morality to Israel”.

In an equally harsh response, Muslim-majority Turkey rejected the charges as “excessive statements made on domestic political concerns (which) we vehemently condemn”. “Suggestions that anti-Semitism is being fanned in Turkey are completely baseless,” a foreign ministry statement said, adding that Erdogan’s criticism “is directed exclusively at Israel’s unacceptable practices and policies in Gaza”.

The ministry recalled that Jews fleeing the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th century took refuge in the Ottoman Empire and said “the long history of cohabitation between Turks and Jews is a histor y of respect and tolerance”.

Turkey has been Israel’s main regional ally since 1996 when the two signed a military cooperation accord.

Because Israel is so concerned about the deteriorating ties with Turkey, there was much criticism yesterday of Ayalon’s blunt conduct. Cabinet Minister Benjamin Ben-Eliezer of the Labor Party, who has been trying to repair ties, called it “uncalled for” and “humiliating”. Speaking to Army Radio, Ayalon refused to apologize. “It’s the Turks who need to apologize,” for both Erdogan’s remarks and the TV shows, he said. — Agencies

Brits held in Dubai for extramarital sex Continued from Page 1 “They have been charged for having sex without marriage,” Muzinah said, adding that the police had now handed the case to the public prosecutor, who would decide whether to bring a court case against them. The couple are currently free, he said. There was no immediate comment from the couple.

Dubai’s foreign population has expanded rapidly in recent years as expatriates flocked to the Gulf Arab trade and tourism hub for its tax-free earnings and year-round sunshine.

The changes have challenged the Emirati population, which is now vastly outnumbered by foreigners, raising concern that their emi-

rate’s rapid pace of growth is a threat to their social and religious identity in what remains a deeply conservative region. In a high-profile case in 2008, a British couple narrowly escaped jail after a Dubai court found them guilty of engaging in drunken sexual activity outside of wedlock, and for doing so in public on a beach in the emirate. They were sentenced to three months in prison followed by deportation, but had their jail terms overturned on appeal.

The website of the British embassy in Dubai warns Britons of the possible consequences of having sex outside of wedlock.

“Sexual relationships outside of marriage are illegal in Dubai and can attract imprison-

ment,” a list of dos and don’ts in the United Arab Emirates says. “We can confirm the arrests of two British nationals in Dubai on Jan 1. The embassy in Dubai is providing consular assistance,” Simon Goldsmith, a spokesman for the British embassy, told Reuters.

Muzinah said media reports that the British couple were being treated especially harshly because they are Muslims were incorrect but that marriage may help their situation. “Muslim or not Muslim - we will make the case. The mistake is the same for anyone, we have a law against that,” he said.

“If they get married the court might stop the case.” — Reuters

GAZA CITY: A handout picture obtained from the Hamas-run Al-Aqsa TV yesterday shows a Palestinian policeman witnessing a massacre of children by an Israeli settler. — AFP

Hamas cartoon takes aim at rival ‘lackeys’ GAZA CITY: The Hamas-run Al-Aqsa TV channel plans to release a series of cartoons portraying Palestinian security forces in the West Bank as boot-licking lackeys of Israel, a network official said yesterday. The cartoons will be modelled on a six-minute pilot in which a character wearing the uniform of Western-backed security forces loyal to Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas is portrayed as a mindless toady of bloodthirsty Israelis.

“We are preparing films and cartoons to broadcast on Al-Aqsa at the start of next month focusing on the disgraceful practices of the (Palestinian) Authority,” the official said on condition of anonymity.

Hamas and Abbas’s secular Fatah movement have been bitterly divided since the Islamist group’s bloody seizure

of Gaza in June 2007, which confined Abbas’s authority to the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Since then the two groups have accused each other of arbitrary arrests, torture and persecution as unity talks have repeatedly collapsed. Hamas has lashed out at Abbas’s security forces for cracking down on armed groups in the West Bank, accusing them of serving Israel’s interests.

In the pilot cartoon, entitled “A Special Mission” and first aired earlier this month, the main character, named Bahlul (Arabic for buffoon), shines an Israeli soldier’s boots and kisses his feet when ordered to do so. The character tells the Israeli soldier his job is to “protect the settlements in the West Bank” and says he would arrest his relatives, shoot his

brother or divorce his wife if the Israelis ordered him to.

In a later scene, Bahlul watches as a Jewish character massacres a group of West Bank children and drinks their blood. “You killed our children before my eyes. I will respond with even more peace,” he says.

The network official said the popularity of the pilot encouraged the channel to produce more cartoons. “The first program was widely circulated and had a high number of viewers,” he said. “We received hundreds of letters from inside and outside (Gaza) asking for the program to be shown again.” Al-Aqsa has regularly aired graphic television programs glorifying attacks on Israel, including a children’s show in which a Mickey Mouselike character was “martyred” by being beaten to death by Israelis. — AFP

Amir reiterates importance of national unity Continued from Page 1 Sheikh Sabah for his keenness on cementing relationships among all. Jawwad Bu-Khamis said the meeting which followed HH the Amir’s meeting with tribal headmen indicated his care for domestic issues.

Abdulmottaleb Al-Kazemi, a former

minister, extolled the Amir for his kind initiative to grant Kuwaiti notables an audience with him despite his busy agenda. Dr Khaled Al-Mathkour said the meeting gave a clear indication on the strong relations between the Kuwaiti rulers and ruled. Dr Abdulrahman Al-Awadhi said the meeting focused on the issue of national unity.

Youssof Jassem Al-Hejji said the

Kuwaitis are a family who work for common targets, namely the progress and welfare of the country. Youssof Al-Refa’ei, a former minister, urged local media outlets to abstain from carrying any material that could scatter the seeds of sedition or endanger national unity. At the end of the meeting, HH the Amir held a luncheon in honor of his audience. —KUNA

2003 Iraq invasion illegitimate: Probe Continued from Page 1 would study it fully before reacting.

The opposition, meanwhile, has demanded a parliamentary inquiry. The Hague has repeatedly justified its political backing for the invasion with then-Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein’s repeated refusal to respect UN Security Council resolutions.

The United States and Britain, which led the action, cited Hussein’s alleged possession of weapons of mass destruction.

None were ever found.

The commission said the Dutch government’s position was inconsistent with the majority view of the public and with its own policies, which opposed enforced regime change. “The Dutch government lent its political support to a war whose purpose was not consistent with Dutch government policy. It may therefore be said that the Dutch stance was to some extent disingenuous.”

The US benefited from the political backing “since it increased support for the invasion at the global level,” said the report. The commission, which started its work in March last year, was set up by the government amid growing pressure from political parties and the public for a probe into claims that crucial data had been withheld from Dutch decision-makers who opted to support the invasion backed by all but two political parties in the Dutch parliament at the time.

The Netherlands sent about 1,100 troops to Iraq in July 2003 to take part in a post-invasion, UN-mandated Iraqi stabilisation force. They left Iraq in 2005.

The probe found that Dutch policy on the issue had been defined by the foreign ministry under then minister Jaap de Hoop Scheffer, who later became NATO secretary-general. “The Prime Minister took little or no lead in debates on the Iraq question.”

The government ignored the “reserved” and “nuanced” findings of domestic intelligence sources on Iraq’s weapons of mass destruction, and “adopted those facts that fit the pre-determined political position”, said the report. The commission found “no evidence” to substantiate rumours that the Netherlands had made a clandestine military contribution to the invasion.

Last month, a former UN weapons inspector said former US president George W Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair shared a conviction that Hussein was a threat, blinding them to the lack of evidence justifying war and causing them to allegedly mislead the public. An official inquiry has started in Britain, with Blair set to testify in the coming weeks on the intelligence used to make a case for war. His ex-chief spin doctor Alastair Campbell gave evidence yesterday. -— AFP

Iran nuke scientist killed in bombing Saudi posing as pilot held at Manila airport Continued from Page 1 airport police he was there to meet his father, a retired Saudia pilot who later arrived on a flight from Saudi Arabia. He was wearing a pilot’s uniform from Saudia Airlines when airport security personnel noticed him lining up at the immigration section of the passenger terminal, Cusi told ABS-CBN television.

The young man produced a card identifying him as a dependent of a retired Saudia employee, he said. “There was a failure on our part here,” said Cusi, con-

ceding that Bukhari should not have been able to penetrate so far into the terminal.

“Our fault here is we were not able to check properly his identification,” he said, adding: “Definitely, there will be changes” in airport security procedures.

He did not appear on any terrorist watch lists, said Ferdinand Sampol, the airport immigration chief. “It’s a mistake ... but not my mistake,” Bukhari told ABSCBN television. “The guards allowed me to enter.” He told investigators he enrolled in a school for flight dispatchers but Pascual said he did not have a student visa.

Continued from Page 1 The school said however, that he was not a student although his two brothers were.

Most of the 19 hijackers who carried out the Sept 11 attacks in the United States in 2001 were Saudi nationals.

The man arrived in Manila on Nov 30 and was issued a 21-day visitor visa, Pascual said. Bukhari was about to be transfer red from the airpor t to the Immigration Bureau’s detention center yesterday when he fainted, Pascual said. He was taken for a hospital checkup after claiming he was a diabetic, Pascual said. — Agencies

Govt blamed for aborted session Continuedfrom Page 1 that it would have been the first development plan in Kuwait after a quarter of a century.

In another development, Islamist MP Falah Al-Sawwagh officially joined the Islamist Reform and Development Bloc, raising its membership to four. The other members are MPs Faisal Al-Mislem, Waleed Al-Tabtabaei and Jamaan AlHarbash.

Separately, the oil price is “fantastic” and oil demand is rising, so there is no need for OPEC to change supply policy at its next meeting in March, the oil minister said yesterday. US crude hit a 15-month high on Monday after cold weather boosted energy demand for heating and second-

largest consumer China registered a 25 percent rise in oil imports in December.

The price was just above $82 yesterday.

“Next meeting will be the same... no change of course,” Sheikh Ahmad AlAbdullah Al-Sabah told reporters at the National Assembly when asked whether OPEC might change supply targets when ministers next meet in March.

Sheikh Ahmad described the current oil price as “fantastic”. The price has risen around $10 since OPEC’s last meeting on Dec 22, when the group kept supply steady and said it was content with an oil price that stood then at $72-$75 a barrel. Cold weather in much of the northern hemisphere and rising demand was supporting the oil price, Sheikh Ahmad said.

Weather-related demand was expected to

help lower bloated inventories of heating oil inventories in both Europe and the United States. OPEC ministers have voiced concern about bloated inventories of distillates, including heating oil, since they started to build as oil demand fell with the recession.

Saudi Aramco Chief Executive Khalid Al-Falih also pointed to rising demand as supporting the oil price in remarks published yesterday. “Prices have started to recover and demand for oil is rising gradually,” Falih was quoted by daily newspaper Al-Watan as saying. Top oil exporter and OPEC’s most influential member Saudi Arabia has said a price of around $75-$80 a barrel was fair for both producers and consumers. (Material from agencies used in this report)

incident,” foreign ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said. The United States dismissed the allegations out of hand. “Charges of US involvement are absurd,” State Department spokesman Mark Toner said in Washington. Tehran’s chief prosecutor also implicated the United States and Israel, saying their respective intelligence services were likely behind the attack. “Given the fact that Massoud Ali Mohammadi was a nuclear scientist, the CIA and Mossad services and agents most likely have had a hand in it,” Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi told the state broadcaster’s news service.

Last month, Iran accused the United States of seizing an Iranian scientist while he was on pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, a claim Washington refused to comment on and that Riyadh denied, and an Iranian statement drew parallels. “On the one hand, US government spy agents kidnap Iranians in third countries and transfer them to America and on the other hand their sellout agents in Iran assassinate a scholarly citizen. “Intelligence and security bodies will try to identify and arrest the perpetrators of this crime and expose their foreign backers,” added the statement, carried by the Fars news agency.

Tehran University’s Basij, or voluntary Islamist student militia, said Mohammadi’s named had been included on an international blacklist linked to Iran’s atomic drive. “Dr Massoud Ali Mohammadi, whose name was on the list

of sanctioned individuals ... was one of the outstanding professors of Tehran University’s physics faculty,” the statement said, as cited by the official IRNA news agency, without elaborating.

The students were referring to sanctions imposed by the United Nations, United States and European countries on individuals and institutions linked to Iran’s nuclear program. The Basij militia organisation also condemned the assassination, calling Mohammadi a “Basiji professor.” Bomb attacks are rare in Iran although several security officials and members of the elite Revolutionary Guards have been killed in bombings by rebels in the restive eastern province of Sistan-Baluchestan.

A witness told AFP yesterday’s explosion was a “strong blast breaking windows in neighbouring houses and cars.”

Iran’s state-run Arabic-language television Al-Alam identified Mohammadi as a “hezbollahi” teacher - a term used for staunch supporters of the Iranian regime.

“This assassination may have been carried out by the Hypocrites (Iran’s exiled People’s Mujahedeen opposition) or planned by the Zionist regime,” Al-Alam said. The opposition group denied any involvement in the attack. “The NCRI has no connection with this murder,” a spokesman for the National Council of Resistance of Iran, which includes the People’s Mujahideen, told AFP in Paris.

Iranian authorities have consistently accused archfoes the United States and Israel of seeking to foment unrest in Iran, and the two countries have never ruled

out a military strike to thwart Iran’s controversial nuclear drive. None of the reports said whether Ali Mohammadi was connected to Iran’s nuclear enrichment program and a colleague described him as non-political. “He was a prominent full professor but he was not a political figure.

He had no political activity,” Ali Maghari, who heads the faculty of sciences at Tehran university, told Mehr news agency.

However, Ali Mohammadi’s name appeared on a list of academics backing Iranian opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi for the disputed June 12 presidential election, which gave President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad a second term.

The opposition claims the vote was massively rigged in Ahmadinejad’s favour. For the past six months, it has been staging anti-government protests at every opportunity, many of which have been broken up by police who have arrested hundreds of demonstrators.

Iran has been under international pressure to halt its sensitive uranium enrichment program which is at the centre of fears about Iran’s ambitions as the process which makes nuclear fuel can also be used to make atom bombs.

Despite three rounds of UN Security Council sanctions, Iran has continued to expand its nuclear program, which it insists is for peaceful purposes only. The US, Russia, China, Britain France and Germany will meet late this week to discuss a further round of sanctions against Iran, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said last week. — Agencies

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Rested or rusty, Colts and Saints join Super Bowl race NEW YORK: The top-seeded Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints join the race to the Super Bowl this weekend hoping to benefit from the rest rather than suffer from rust after coasting through the end of the regular season.

A series of intriguing match-ups among the last eight teams standing in the National Football League include the AFC-leading Colts (14-2) hosting the hard-hitting Baltimore Ravens The Ravens used a punishing ground

game and ball-hawking defense to pound the Patriots 33-14 in New England in their wild card playoff and will be looking to get at the Colts’ MVP quarterback Peyton Manning.

Indianapolis have won the last seven meetings between the two clubs but only scraped by 17-15 in November in Baltimore.

The high-scoring Saints, who led the NFC with their 13-3 mark, entertain the defending NFC champion Arizona Cardinals, who showed off their potent offense in a 5145 overtime playoff victory over the Green

Bay Packers on Sunday.

Both top seeds should be well-rested for the games, the winners of which meet in conference title games the following week to determine the Super Bowl berths.

The Colts left out their regulars for the last two games of the regular season and suffered their only two losses, while the Saints lost their last three, coasting to a close after starting 13-0.

“There’s something to be said for coasting in because obviously you’ve earned the

right to do that,” Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said. “There are advantages to that and advantages to fighting your way in.”

Also enjoying opening-round byes were the Minnesota Vikings and San Diego Chargers, the NFL’s hottest team with victories in their last 11 games. The Chargers host the defensive-minded New York Jets, who began the playoffs rated as 50-1 longshots.

“We’re excited,” said Jets rookie coach Rex Ryan, whose team advanced with a vic-

tory over the Cincinnati Bengals. “It’s right now with two of the hottest teams in the league.

“We’ve won six out of seven. We feel pretty good about ourselves. Then you look at San Diego, 11 straight. Both teams are carrying a lot of momentum going into this game.”

The Vikings and charismatic signal caller Brett Favre will be visited by the Dallas Cowboys, who advanced with their third victory this season over the Philadelphia

Eagles. Minnesota tight end Visanthe Shiancoe referenced the Cowboys’ plush new stadium when asked about Dallas and how they had become a popular pick in the playoffs, saying they might have a harder time under the dome in Minneapolis. “All the people in the bandwagon aren’t going to be on the field,” Shiancoe told reporters.

“We’re going to be on the field. They’re coming to the ‘hood. This ain’t all that high tech (stuff). They’re coming to an old school stadium, all right? Old school Vikings.”— Reuters

NHL results/standings NHL results and standings on Monday.

Minnesota 4, Pittsburgh 3; Colorado 3, Calgary 2 (SO); Nashville 3, Vancouver 2;San Jose 2, Los Angeles 1. (SO Denotes Shootout Victory).

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L OTL GF GA PTS New Jersey 31 11 1 126 94 63 Pittsburgh 28 18 1 149 130 57 NY Rangers 22 17 6 120 122 50 Philadelphia 22 19 3 134 125 47 NY Islanders 19 19 8 118 144 46 Northeast Division Buffalo 28 11 5 123 102 61 Boston 22 15 7 114 107 51 Ottawa 22 20 4 126 141 48 Montreal 22 21 4 119 126 48 Toronto 15 22 9 123 160 39 Southeast Division Washington 27 11 6 162 121 60 Atlanta 19 19 6 137 149 44 Tampa Bay 17 17 10 111 132 44 Florida 18 20 7 128 140 43 Carolina 13 24 7 110 152 33 Western Conference Central Division Chicago 31 11 4 152 102 66 Nashville 27 16 3 131 129 57 Detroit 23 15 6 115 110 52 Columbus 18 20 9 124 154 45 St. Louis 18 19 7 115 130 43 Northw est Division Calgary 26 14 6 125 111 58 Colorado 26 15 6 138 134 58 Vancouver 27 17 2 147 112 56 Minnesota 23 20 3 126 137 49 Edmonton 16 23 5 121 147 37 Pacific Division San Jose 29 10 7 149 118 65 Phoenix 26 15 5 120 112 57 Los Angeles 25 18 3 135 130 53 Dallas 19 15 11 128 141 49 Anaheim 20 19 7 129 143 47

CALGARY: Colorado Avalanche David Koci (left) from the Czech Republic, fights with Calgary Flames’ Brian McGratton during the first period of an NHL hockey game. — AP

Wild get past Penguins ST. PAUL: Guillaume Latendresse scored the go-ahead goal midway through the third period after getting a career-high three assists to give the Minnesota Wild a 4-3 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL on Monday. For only the fifth time in 22 games this season, the Penguins lost after scoring first, this time on Sidney Crosby’s early goal.

He scored again later, tying the game at 3 in the first minute of the third period to move

past Marian Gaborik for second place in the NHL with 29 goals. Eric Belanger, Martin Havlat and Cal Clutterbuck also scored for the Wild, and Niklas Backstrom had 45 saves.

Pascal Dupuis set up Crosby’s first score and added a goal of his own for Pittsburgh.

Sharks 2, Kings 1 At Los Angeles, Evgeni Nabokov made 33 saves and Dan Boyle had a goal and an

assist as San Jose ended Los Angeles’ recent mastery over the Sharks.

Dany Heatley scored his 26th goal for the Pacific Division-leading Sharks, who had lost two of three, including an embarrassing 6-2 defeat to Los Angeles at the Shark Tank seven days earlier.Randy Jones scored and Erik Ersberg stopped 34 shots for the slumping Kings, who have lost three straight and seven of 10.

won seven of its last nine road games. Rene Bourque and Dustin Boyd scored for Calgary.

Predators 3, Canucks 2 At Vancouver, British Columbia, defenseman Shea Weber blasted a power play shot past Vancouver goalie Roberto Luongo with 4:03 left in the third period to lift Nashville to the win.

Ryan Jones also scored on a power play, Joel Ward added a short-handed goal, and Dan Ellis made 30 saves for the Predators, who leapfrogged the Canucks into a fifthplace tie with Phoenix in the Western Conference. Alex Burrows scored twice, Daniel Sedin had two assists to reach 500 career points, and Luongo made 22 saves as the Canucks lost in regulation for the first time in 10 games (7-1-2). — AP

Hayden embarrassed after spoiling Ducati’s launch

McGwire admits to use of steroids NEW YORK: Mark McGwire’s admission he used steroids during his record-setting career was saluted by MLB Commissioner Bud Selig on Monday but the slugger’s denial of its performance affects is bound to bring howls of protest.

Major League Baseball has strived to bring closure to the “Steroids Era” of the 1990s, incorporating mandatory drug testing, publishing the Mitchell Report into use of performance enhancers and enacting tough punishment for violations.

Still, echoes of the era bruise the integrity of the game. Last spring, the game’s highest-paid player, Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees, acknowledged he had used steroids earlier in his career. Baseball’s all-time home run leader, Barry Bonds, still has perjury charges hanging over his head on grand jury testimony denying that he used performance enhancing drugs.

Roger Clemens, one of baseball’s greatest pitchers of the era, is also fighting accusations of doping during his career. Now McGwire confirms widely held suspicions he was doping during his enthralling 1998 chase of the single season home run record of 61 set by Roger Maris of the New York Yankees in 1961.

He outduelled Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs by belting 70 homers to help put baseball back on its feet after the 1994 labor strife that led to cancellation of the postseason and soured many fans.

McGwire’s admission, coming as he is about to return to baseball as batting coach for the St Louis Cardinals, was hailed as a step in the right direction by Selig.

However, the former first baseman

Avalanche 3, Flames 2 At Calgary, Alberta, Chris Stewart scored once in regulation and got the decisive goal in the shootout, and Craig Anderson made 44 saves to lead Colorado.

It was the fourth straight 3-2 victory for Colorado over Calgary in the season series and moved the Avalanche into a tie with the Flames atop the Northwest Division. Paul Stastny also scored for Colorado, which has

ST LOUIS: This is a Sept. 27, 1998 file photo showing St. Louis Cardinals’ Mark McGwire watching his record-setting 70th home run of the season against the Montreal Expos. — AP later fell back on the reflex defense that no drugs could enable someone to have the coordination and talent to hit a baseball, and that he was confident he could have accomplished what he did without them. McGwire said he took the drugs only to feel healthy and “normal” because of a series of injuries that plagued him.

Such attitudes will continue to keep baseball from feeling quite “normal” to its legion of fans.— Reuters

ITALY: American Nicky Hayden will have to make amends on the track after admitting yesterday he had ruined the launch of Ducati’s new MotoGP bike by posting pictures of it on his own website.

The 2006 world champion, who finished a lowly 13th last season, visited the factory for an early glimpse of the 2010 bike but did not realise the design was meant to be secret.

The GP10 was supposed to be unveiled this week at an Italian motorsport convention in the mountains, where Fernando Alonso will also meet the media for the first time as a Ferrari Formula One driver tomorrow.

“When I saw the bike I took a picture on my phone. I should have known better, I was like a kid,” Hayden told reporters ahead of the season opener in Qatar on April 11. “I just put a picture on my website. It probably got me in the doghouse a bit.

It happens.”

Hayden believes the departure of team principal Livio Suppo for Honda will not adversely affect Ducati this season, especially given the strengths of the new bike.

“I like the bike, while another offseason with the team will be a big help for me,” said the 28-year-old, who is in his second year at Ducati and has brothers racing in Superbikes and the American domestic championship.

“Sure the bike is good and we have a strong package for 2010. There’s been a few changes in the team. With changes you have big opportunities.”

Hayden’s only worry is the enforced use of fewer engines this season in a further bid for MotoGP to cut costs. “Six engines is not a lot for 18 races. I hope it saves some money but I’m not sure how much it is going to save because it takes a lot of development to make them last,” he said.

Team mate Casey Stoner, the 2007 champion, is itching to challenge again

Nicky Hayden seen in this file photo this season after injuries and illness.

He had to skip three races last season with a mystery ailment which was eventually diagnosed as lactose intolerance after critics had suggested the problem was all in his head.

“Blood tests showed I was OK for a normal person,” remarked the Australian, who said athletes needed

to be extra healthy.

“No one was listening to me so I don’t believe I have to answer any questions. It’s the first off-season in three years I’ve not had an injury.”

Stoner, fourth last year, thinks he has detected a chink in the armour of world champion Valentino Rossi while he is looking forward to the 2012 sea-

son when engines will increase to 1000cc.

“Sometimes Valentino can be very quick on the weekend but then struggles in a race,” said Stoner, who wants to race cars like Rossi when they both retire. “I like 1,000cc. We’ll hopefully get a bit of grunt out of them, a bit more fun.”— Reuters

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

‘Pineapple Express’ dampens Vancouver Olympic buzz VANCOUVER: The Vancouver Winter Games countdown shifts from months to days yesterday just as a “Pineapple Express” weather front has slammed into the Pacific Northwest to dampen Olympic fever.

As athletes and construction workers were pushing full speed ahead with their final preparations, organisers VANOC faced their worst weather nightmare as unseasonably high temperatures and rain lashed the Vancouver area.

Weather fronts that bring

warm, wet conditions from the Pacific Ocean during the winter are often described as Pineapple Expresses by local forecasters.

With just one month to go until the Feb. 12th opening ceremony, the spring-like conditions, which are expected to remain in the area through the weekend, could pose a threat to several Olympic venues.

Cypress Mountain, which will host the freestyle skiing and snowboard competitions, was closed on Monday due to heavy rain and snow making halted as

temperatures in Vancouver climbed to a balmy 11 degrees Celsius (52 Fahrenheit).

Work crews at the popular resort, located just 12 kilometres outside Vancouver, have been busy stockpiling snow at higher elevations and said snow making would resume as soon as temperatures dropped.

Whistler, about 125 km from Vancouver and venue for the alpine skiing, cross-country and sliding events, was also facing a soggy week with rain and temperatures well above freezing

set to remain in place until Sunday.

“We’re putting everything we’ve learned and planned for regarding weather contingency into practice at the outdoor

Whistler and Cypress mountains, according to Gayda.

“We’re confident these courses will be in world-class shape when the athletes start to arrive to practice in our venues in the

One-month countdown venues in order to be ready for the Games,” Tim Gayda, VANOC’s vice president of sport, said in a statement.

Crews have been preparing since the first snowfalls hit

first week of February,” he said.

Depending on weather conditions, VANOC said it may need to further restrict use or close competition venues to the public to protect and preserve

the competition and training sites.

While Olympic organisers cannot change the weather, they have invested $13.5 million in state-of-the-art tracking equipment and scientific expertise to monitor conditions.

“Weather is involved in just about every decision we make as Games organisers, from when to make and stockpile snow to transportation planning, and we’re constantly monitoring it,” explained Chris Doyle, an Environment Canada meteorol-

ogist and VANOC’s manager of weather services.

“All of this provides an invaluable real-time snapshot of what’s happening at the outdoor venues and what mother nature has in store in the near future so that we can plan and take action.”

With the city under a heavy rainfall warning, there is little buzz that Vancouver is about to host a Winter Games. The picture postcard images of the snow capped Rocky Mountains that are suppose to provide the

dramatic backdrop have disappeared into the thick fog and clouds, while more people can been seen out jogging city streets in shorts than strolling in heavy winter coats.

There are, however, undeniable signs that the Olympics are on the way. Security fencing has sprung up around downtown venues while local officials have cautioned residents to prepare for the implementation of driving restrictions what will be part of the Games transportation plan. —Reuters

Malaysia mulls Lee’s request

Susanne Riesch in action in this file photo

Susanne leads WCup slalom FLACHAU: Susanne Riesch of Germany led a women’s World Cup night slalom yesterday after the first run, with older sister Maria in second place. Susanne Riesch finished the Griessenkar course in 47.09 seconds to lead Maria, who is the slalom world champion, by 0.12 seconds.

The sisters held a commanding lead over

Austria’s Kathrin Zettel, who was 0.93 seconds back in third. “This slope is perfect for both of us,” said Susanne Riesch, who has two thirdplace finishes this season but has yet to win a World Cup race.

“We both went to the limit. I don’t understand why the others are so far behind us.”

Overall World Cup leader Lindsey Vonn, who

won three speed races last weekend, skied out halfway down the course. The American fell after straddling a gate and losing her right ski but stayed unhurt.

“Things are not going well since the injury,” said Vonn, who bruised her left lower arm in a giant slalom crash in Lienz last month and wore a protective brace. “I haven’t changed anything

but the self-confidence isn’t there anymore.”

Vonn said she will put in some extra slalom training this week ahead of the technical races in Maribor, Slovenia, next weekend.

“It’s difficult as long as my arm hurts,” Vonn said. “But happily there are not many slaloms left this season.” Vonn will keep the lead in the overall standings since main rival Maria Riesch

S Korea wants first figure skating gold TORONTO: South Korean figure skater Kim Yu-na, the favorite for the gold medal at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, is blazing a trail in a nation better known for its speed skating success.

If the wildly popular 19year-old world champion skates her way to the top of the podium next month, she will be the first South Korean winter athlete to win Olympic gold outside speed skating.

Yu-na fever is running high in South Korea where her face is splashed across countless billboards and her name licenses products ranging from bread to necklaces.

Forbes magazine named her the most powerful celebrity in South Korea in 2009.

At a recent practice in Toronto, where Kim has been training for three years, the five-foot-five-inch (1.65metre), 103-pound (48-kg) figure skater said she felt the pressure entering her first Olympics with the hopes of a nation resting on her shoulders.

“I’m trying not to think about the gold medal because that gives me more pressure,” she told Reuters.

“From a young age I’ve watched the Olympics and I know surprises can happen. I

don’t know the outcome, but I’m ready to accept it.”

Kim became the first woman to break the 200-point barrier at a world championships when she skated to gold in Los Angeles last March with a total of 207.71.

Her main competitors for the gold medal in Vancouver will be Japanese skaters Mao Asada and Miki Ando, both former world champions, and Canada’s Joannie Rochette, the 2009 silver medallist.

Helping to keep Kim’s emotions in check is her coach, Canada’s Brian Orser, who like his charge was his country’s main hope for a figure skating gold medal when he competed.

Orser won silver at the 1984 Sarajevo Olympics, and again at the 1988 Calgary Games in the famous on-ice duel against American Brian Boitano, which was dubbed the “Battle of the Brians”.

“Heading into last season I said to her: ‘I know what you’re feeling’ and it was a statement that from any other coach, parent or fan could not ring as true,” said Orser. “And just instantly I could see there was a sense of relief.” Orser said Kim had matured greatly since he started coaching her in mid-

was 192 points behind going into the race.

Anja Paerson of Sweden also went out after losing her balance and appeared to have injured her right knee. Sandrine Aubert of France, who won two slaloms this season and leads the discipline standings, straddled the final gate and also missed the second run. —AP

KUALA LUMPUR: World number one Lee Chong Wei’s request to play in China’s relaunched professional badminton league is being considered by the Badminton Association of Malaysia (BAM), which blocked an earlier move.

BAM are considering the 27-year-old Malaysian’s schedule and possible impact on its sponsors before deciding whether he should be allowed to play in the China Badminton League (CBL).

“There are so many aspects to look into,” BAM general manager Kenny Goh told Malaysia’s The Star newspaper. “This is a heavy year for Chong Wei and we do not want to burden him. It is a year where Chong Wei has been targeted to excel in several major events. This has to be looked into.

“We also have to look into sponsorship matters. Will his participation in the CBL affect our sponsors? We need more details before making a decision.”

Eight clubs from last December’s qualifiers will compete in the revived Chinese domestic league starting in May. A first version of the league was launched in 1999 but ground to a halt in 2002 because of financial problems.

The Badminton World Federation is already worried about the impact on international tournaments of Chinese players putting their obligations to the new league first, and Lee’s participation would only compound those fears.

“The CBL will just be an additional avenue for me to improve my game,” Lee told The Star at the weekend. “It is never easy to play against a player from China and it could be a good practice for me.”

Lee was invited to play for the Guangzhou team in the qualifiers last year, the paper said, but BAM turned down the request.

“I respect their decision,” Lee added. “There is another opportunity and I hope this time, BAM will let me go. I will discuss with them because I think it will benefit me.” —Reuters

Collingwood: I love annoying opposition

Kim Yu-na aims for gold at Vancouver Winter Olympics 2006.

“It’s been cool to start with a 15-year-old girl with braces and gangly and shy and then she has developed into this incredible human being, this beautiful woman who just naturally made this transition in front of our eyes,” said Orser.

The transition has earned Kim the nickname of ‘Queen Yu-na’. Her short programme is skated to a medley of music from James Bond films. Kim’s choreogra-

pher gave her the entire film series and told her to watch it.

During the final moments of her short programme, Kim employs some intricate footwork, makes her way down the ice, moves into a spin routine and ends in a Bondlike pose.

South Korea has won 17 Winter Olympic gold medals, all in speed skating. The 2006 Turin Games provided the nation’s biggest haul, with six golds, three silvers

and two bronzes.

While Kim says she is trying to keep her focus on her training, she admits to getting caught up in the excitement of the chance to earn South Korea’s first Winter Olympic gold medal in a different sport.

She says she often pictures herself atop the podium in Vancouver with the South Korean flag hanging high above as the figure skating medals are handed out. —Reuters

JOHANNESBURG: Paul Collingwood, who has played a key role making sure England go into tomorrow’s fourth and final Test against South Africa 1-0 up in the series, said he loved annoying the opposition with long, defiant innings.

The middle-order batsman hit 50 and 26 not out in the first test at Centurion, 91 in the innings victory in Durban and 19 and 40 in Cape Town, the latter spanning 188 balls and leading the visitors to a battling draw.

“I might bore a few people but it’s a job I enjoy and I love to annoy the opposition,” Collingwood told reporters yesterday. “I’ve always been a fighter, ever since growing up with my brother in my early teens.

“I will always go out there and fight. This whole team has shown that resilience. Obviously you need flair and genius at times but in test cricket resilience is so important.

“My innings out here have been very special.

Centurion was good and in Cape Town I always had the belief we could do it.” Collingwood said his fighting 40 in the third test was worth a century to him and England.

“It was such a big game for us. It’s hard to measure these innings, they’re not about runs, it’s about the time you spend in the middle,” he added.

“The attitude you show to the other players, the balls you face. I think those innings are worth a hundred and those innings give me more pleasure than some hundreds.”

England finished the opening and third matches with their last pair at the wicket, the first time that has happened twice in the same series in test cricket.

South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis said the manner of those two draws could be discouraging for the hosts. “We have discussed it because the feeling could be that we have dominated the series but somehow haven’t managed to get a win,” he said. “We are still behind and we could feel hard done by.

“But we have to look to the future, it’s useless feeling that way, we need to move on and control what we do going forward. England have never given up and they’ve managed to get out of tough

Paul Collingwood situations, they’ve shown fight and character.

“We were in England’s situation in Durban and we crumbled ... so we have only ourselves to blame,” added Kallis.

Kallis, who has scored two centuries and is the leading run-scorer in the series, praised Collingwood’s dogged displays.

“Collingwood has been their rock, they’ve been able to bat around him. He sums up the situation-his experience helps there-and plays accordingly,” said the South African.

“He might not be the prettiest batsman but you’d rather take a guy who gets ugly runs and gets the job done than someone who looks good but doesn’t perform regularly.” —Reuters

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Spanish double as Sainz, Coma take Dakar stages SANTIAGO: Spain’s two-time world rally champion Carlos Sainz extended his overall lead in the car section of the Dakar Rally yesterday when he won the 10th stage, a 238 kilometres special from La Serena.

Earlier his compatriot Marc Coma had won his second successive motorcycling stage.

Sainz extended his overnight lead to over 10 minutes as his second-placed Volkswagen team-mate Qatari Nasser AlAttiyah could finish only fourth in the stage, 1min 40sec in arrears.

Sainz, who once had a trial with Real Madrid as a goalkeeper, was satisfied with his day’s work. “Good. No problems,” enthused Sainz.

“80 kilometres after the start we caught up with Nasser.

What I did was to first to get close to Nasser and then I stayed at around 1:40. After that from the 80km mark we were driving in the dust.”

Al-Attiyah for his part was relieved to have finished the stage. “It was very dangerous at that speed,” said the 39-yearold, who finished fourth in the skeet shooting event at the 2004 Olympics.

“For me it was not a good feeling and I am really happy to have finished this stage without any problems. “For me today it was very stressful because I opened the road (started first on the stage having won on Monday).

“Carlos caught up with us with around 50km to go but its okay I am happy with today (Tuesday). It’s normal when you start the stage in first that you lose a lot of time.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) there

ROCKINGHAM: This Oct. 12, 2008, file photo shows former Brazilian Formula One driver Nelson Piquet Jr., at NASCAR Truck testing at Rockingham Speedway.— AP

Piquet says his future is in NASCAR LONDON: Brazilian driver Nelson Piquet plans to race in North America’s NASCAR series this year after leaving Formula One under a cloud of controversy. “I have spent the last few months carefully evaluating my options for this year,” he said on his personal website (www.npiquet.com) yesterday. “I had to choose a path and it was a difficult decision to make,” he added.

“Being successful in Formula One was always my goal but I have learnt that happiness is just as impor-

tant as ambition and after my first 18 months in F1 did not go as planned I have decided to focus on something different and have chosen to take a route in America.

“NASCAR is hugely challenging and nobody has ever come in as an outsider before and gone on to win it.

It will be the ultimate challenge,” said the 24-year-old.

Piquet triggered one of Formula One’s biggest scandals after being dropped by his Renault team in July when he told the sport’s governing body he had

crashed deliberately in the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix to help team mate Fernando Alonso win. Renault were handed a suspended permanent ban while former team boss Flavio Briatore was given a lifetime exclusion, a sanction overturned by a Paris court this month subject to appeal by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Piquet did not say which NASCAR series he would compete in but he tested in October for Red Horse Racing in the Camping World truck series. — Reuters

Schumacher starts F1 comeback with GP2 test LONDON: Seven times world champion Michael Schumacher set his Formula One comeback rolling yesterday with a test of a GP2 development car at Jerez in southern Spain.

The 41-year-old German, returning with Mercedes after retiring as a Ferrari driver in 2006, completed 52 laps before heavy rain and gusty conditions halted the session in the afternoon.

“Today was good especially because after a long time I could drive again in a car that came almost close to a current Formula One,” he

said in a statement.

“Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked all my senses were nevertheless on full alert - this alone was worth it. I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning.” Schumacher, Formula One’s most successful driver, is due to test until tomorrow.

GP2 is Formula’s One’s support series at race weekends, with all teams using the same Renault-powered cars. Formula One teams are not allowed to test until the first official session in Valencia on Feb. 1.— Reuters

O’Sullivan rally stops Robertson LONDON: Ronnie O’Sullivan came from 3-0 down to beat Australia’s Neil Robertson 6-4 in thrilling style at the Masters snooker tournament here yesterday.

Robertson took a commanding early lead in the best of 11 frames clash at the Wembley Arena and looked to be well on the way to a quarter-final spot, with O’Sullivan later admitting “it could have been a whitewash”.

But four-times Masters champion O’Sullivan, a crowd favorite, hit back with two century and three half-century breaks to set up a last eight clash against fellow Englishman Peter Ebdon.

O’Sullivan started to stop the rot with a break of 114 against reigning Grand Prix champion Robertson and he got back to within a frame at 3-2 behind following a break of 57.

‘The Rocket’ squared the match with a contribution of 87 before cleaning up on the colours to go 4-3 in front. Robertson regained his com-

posure in some style with a break of 140 to leave the match all square at 4-4. But O’Sullivan’s response was emphatic, a break of 106 putting him within sight of victory.

Two naturally attacking players then found themselves involved in a safety exchange at the start of the 10th frame before former world champion O’Sullivan ended the match with a 76-break.

“I wasn’t surprised to be 3-0 down,” O’Sullivan told the BBC afterwards. “It was just nice to score a few in the end so I could make a game of it as it could have been a whitewash.” He added: “I didn’t panic. You can’t panic, that’s rule number one, because if you panic it’s a disaster. “You have to stay patient and hope to catch a bit of momentum so you can put your opponent under pressure. “I made just two out of 10 long pots, and I think Neil will be disappointed to have beaten someone making just two of 10 long pots.”— AFP

CHILE: Volkswagen’s driver Spain’s Carlos Sainz and co-driver Spain’s Lucas Cruz compete during the 2010 Argentina-Chile Dakar Rally.— AP

CHILE: KTM’s rider Spain’s Marc Coma competes during the 2010 Argentina-Chile Dakar Rally.— AP will be more off-road and dunes which will be good for me” French driver Stephane Peterhansel, who has recovered well since he lost over two hours on one stage and any chance of winning outright, was second on the stage 28sec behind while Volkswagen driver Mark Miller of the United States remained in third overall after finishing third 1min 2sec in arrears.

Coma, who is out of contention for the overall title having been penalised six hours

over the weekend, beat Frenchman David Fretigne by 2min 6sec. For Coma it was mission accomplished - as least for yesterday that is.

“I went looking for victory,” confessed Coma, who still protests his innocence over the penalty for illegal changing a tyre.

“I started first and opened the road for the whole stage. It’s hard. In fact it’s the hardest thing to do. And trying to claw back some time is hard too.

“But we did, so I’m happy, even

proud - all thanks to the team.”

Another Frenchman, Cyril Despres, who was sixth on the stage over six minutes in arrears, remains the clear overall leader.

Despres admitted that he had ridden conservatively with one eye on his overall lead. “We could easily have lost the overall lead, so I protected my lead,” he said. “That said I wasn’t just taking it easy either. For me there was no need to go on the attack.”

The battle for the remaining

podium places looks set to be intense in the remaining four stages ahead of the finish in Buenos Aires.

Chilean Francisco Lopez winner of two stages - gained over two minutes on overall second-placed Pal Ullevalseter of Norway, who has a slender lead of under two minutes over him.

Portuguese rider Helder Rodrigues, who was third in the stage, is less than a minute behind Lopez in the overall standings.— AFP

Gulf Air Bahrain launches countdown to Formula One 60th World Championship BAHRAIN: Bahrain International Circuit and Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air, yesterday launched the official 60-day countdown to the year’s most highly anticipated sporting, social and business networking event; the 2010 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

The race weekend, which takes place 12th, 13th and 14th of March at the award-winning Sakhir track, will be the inaugural race for this year’s 60th anniversary celebratory season of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) Formula One World Championship. This will also be the 7th time the Kingdom of Bahrain hosts the third most popular sporting event in the World.

It’s expected that this year’s over 500 million people all over the world will be watching this important race.

“There will be many new surprises and events prepared for the audience this year. 26 cars will be participating this year, and new teams are coming to Bahrain coming especially for this event.

“The tickets are sold for Bahraini Dinars from 40 180,” noted Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Operating Officer of the Bahrain International Circuit during the press conference held yesterday at the BIC in Bahrain.

‘The Home of Motorsports in the Middle East,’ officially opened by His Majesty the King, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on the 17th of March 2004, has brought an ever increasing number of spectators to the Kingdom, with this year’s special event promising to be the biggest, most exciting Gulf Air Bahrain yet.

Just as it is for Formula One, 2010 marks Gulf Air’s own 60th anniversary celebrations. To mark the occasion and celebrate the airline’s next 60 years, Gulf Air announced that passen-

gers buying Gulf Air tickets online to arrive in Bahrain between the 11th -14th of March from 6am and 12 noon and wishing to travel to the circuit, would be met at the airport, taken to the track and receive a complimentary gift.

Kyle Haywood, Gulf Air’s Chief Commercial Officer, confirmed: “Gulf Air has been the title sponsor of the Bahrain Grand Prix since it made history in April 2004 as the first Formula One Grand Prix to be held in the Middle East.

Since then the airline has worked closely with the Bahrain International Circuit to open the race up to a wider audience and attract as many fans as possible to the Kingdom, whilst at the same time involving the local community in one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.”

“I am sure that with this year’s race being the first in the F1 calendar and seeing the return of racing ledged

Michael Schumacher, the 2010 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be one of highlights of this year’s racing calendar,” he concluded.

As part of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix weekend and the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Formula One and Gulf Air, an unprecedented and never-before-seen gathering of Formula One legends, both past and present, will take place.

The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will bring together some of the greatest heroes and former World Champions the sport has seen since its birth in 1950. “Among the famous names expected to be at the Grand prix are Sir Jack Brabham, Mika Hakkinen, Jody Scheckter, Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button, Keke Rosberg, Niki Lauda, Sir Jackie Stewart, Damon Hill and Mario Andretti to name

but a few,” stated Martin Whitaker, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain International Circuit.

Adding to the overall spectacle and celebration of 60 years of the sport will be many of the iconic cars that have won championships during the 60 years will add to the spectacle and add to the uniqueness of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

Bahrain will bring together cars from each decade including some of the classics from the 50s such as Alfa Romeo and Ferrari.

More recent winners from the 60s onwards will be represented by Lotus, Ferrari, Tyrrell, Matra, Brabham and Williams in what promises to be the most spectacular gathering of World Champion ship winning cars ever seen at a Grand Prix.

Bahrain International Circuit also proudly revealed yesterday its official campaign slogan for the upcoming Grand Prix -

“Race Number One” - signifying not only the fantastic opportunity Bahrain has in opening the 2010 Formula One season, but also acknowledging the elite status Bahrain’s race has achieved among the most popular motorsport series in the world.

Bahrain International Circuit has come a long way since its own inaugural race, receiving multiple awards through the years commending the extremely complex level of organization and planning needed to successfully host such spectacular event as the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

Tickets for the 2010 Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix are already on sale and can be purchased through the Bahrain International Circuit Hotline on +973-17450000, through the website www.bahraingp.com, or at the Bahrain International Circuit stands at Seef Mall and Bahrain City Centre.

SPORTS

18

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Stosur takes the mantle of Australia’s big hope MELBOURNE: For more than three decades, the expectations of a nation have weighed heavily on the home players at the Australian Open, from Pat Cash and Pat Rafter to Lleyton Hewitt and Mark Philippoussis.

No Australian has won a singles title there since Yvonne Goolagong-Cawley in 1977 and, with Rafter and Philippoussis retired and Hewitt struggling to get back to the top after injury, local hopes have switched back to the women’s draw. Step forward Sam Stosur.

The 25-year-old goes into 2010 ranked

13th in the world after the best year of her career. Last season, Stosur reached the semi-finals of the French Open, picked up her first singles title and clinched wins over Serena Williams, Elena Dementieva, Svetlana Kuznetsova, Caroline Wozniacki and Ana Ivanovic.

Although Cash and Hewitt both reached the final in Melbourne, dealing with being the country’s leading hope was never easy for the likes of Rafter and Philippoussis, and Stosur admits she is still learning to cope. “It’s all new-I’ve only been in the top 15 for a couple of

months,” Stosur told Reuters in an interview. “I have to remember that having that (ranking) next to my name doesn’t mean anything when you’re out there. You still have to try to win each point and hopefully win more matches than you lose.”

The interest in Stosur has been growing as the Australian Open looms large and two losses out of three in the Hopman Cup team event and a first-round defeat in Sydney is less than encouraging form.

A fourth-round showing in 2006 remains her best effort at Melbourne Park

and the pressure is mounting. “You just have to work out how to handle (the pressure) and maybe I’m not handling it as best I could but I’m working on it,” she said. “I look at it as a positive. I haven’t done this my whole life to say, ‘okay, I just want to be top 50’. No one’s expectations are going to be greater than mine.”

Until last year, Stosur was more known for her exploits on the doubles court, where she has won 24 titles, including four at grand slams.

Last summer, something clicked for Stosur and she reached the semi-finals of

the French Open, using her strong serve and powerful forehand to great effect on the clay. “It took me five years to win a match at Roland Garros through juniors and doubles and everything,” Stosur said.

“I never would have thought (the breakthrough) would be at Roland Garros but looking at it another way, my game actually matches up pretty well to the courts. I should have been a better claycourt player.” From that moment, Stosur’s confidence soared and she ended the year by winning her first career singles title in Osaka. Stosur said she always

believed she was capable of great things but does not mind being called a late bloomer. “Obviously I’d never done it before, so it was hard to say, yes, it’s going to happen-why should anyone believe me? But I think where I am right now was pretty realistic,” she said. “I think sometimes it just takes a bit longer for players like me who are confident doing everything. “You just have to remember that you don’t have to do everything, every day. I know I can beat anyone out there but you have to be consistent to be the best.” —Reuters

Serena, Safina in q-finals

SYDNEY: American Serena Williams reacts to a dropped point in her match against Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez of Spain at the Sydney International tennis tournament. —AP

Ljubicic takes Federer’s spot at Kooyong Classic MELBOURNE: Croatia’s Ivan Ljubicic has taken the final spot at this week’s Kooyong Classic after champion Roger Federer withdrew from an event he traditionally uses as a final warm-up for the Australian Open.

The 30-year-old Ljubicic, a nine-time ATP tour champion, completes a strong eight-man field at the Melbourne invitational, boasting world number three Novak Djokovic of Serbia and Argentina’s U.S. Open champion Juan Martin del Potro.

“Again, I’m full of hopes, full of expectations, feeling good and I’m really looking forward to the new season,” Ljubicic, who captured his first ATP Tour title in two years at Lyon in November, told reporters.

Federer, who used Kooyong as a springboard to three Australian Open titles, elected to skip the tournament in favour of rest on Monday after defeats against Robin Soderling and Nikolay Davydenko at the start of his 2010 campaign.

His replacement, Ljubicic faces a baptism of fire in his first match today’s opening day at Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club, having drawn second-seed Del Potro, who overcame a spate of injuries late last year to finish the season in solid form.

The towering Argentine is playing his first tournament since finishing as runner-up at the season-ending ATP Tour Finals in November, after enjoying a holiday with family and friends which he described as “good preparation” for next week’s Open. “So I will be looking for another grand slam here in Melbourne,” the 21year-old said. The 2008 Australian Open champi-

on and top seed Djokovic will play experienced German Tommy Haas, who joked about being brought down by swine flu late in the season after his surprise semi-final appearance in Wimbledon last year.

“Caught the swine flu-which I still have ... So, yeah, just looking forward to a new start. Glad I got the toughest opponent here in the first round against Novak.”

“I’m sure he’s looking forward to avenge himself against me,” added the 31-year-old, who upset Djokovic at the quarter-finals at Wimbledon.

Swedish world number eight Soderling faces Jo-Wilfried Tsonga today after an all-Latin battle between Chile’s Fernando Gonzalez and ninthranked Fernando Verdasco of Spain.

Tsonga, who burst into the limelight with his run to the 2008 Australian Open final, was quick to dismiss concerns about his fitness after a wrist injury forced his withdrawal from the last week’s Qatar Open.

“My wrist is okay,” the 10th-ranked 24-yearold said. “I’m really antsy and I’m pleased to play against the... best player(s) in the world.”

Kooyong, seen as a form guide for the Australian Open which begins on Monday, guarantees players three matches on the same surface used at Melbourne Park.

British world number five Andy Murray, craving a final thorough workout before his tilt for a maiden grand slam next week, would also play an exhibition match at the tournament tomorrow with an opponent yet to be named, organisers said. —Reuters

SYDNEY: Top-ranked Serena Williams opened her season with a 6-1, 6-2 win over Maria Jose Martinez Sanchez yesterday, reaching the quarterfinals at a Sydney International where other leading players have struggled.

No. 3 Svetlana Kuznetsova lost 7-5, 6-2 to Slovakia’s Dominika Cibulkova later yesterday, joining fourth-seeded Caroline Wozniacki, No. 7 Jelena Jankovic and No. 8 Vera Zvonareva as losers in the first two rounds.

Second-seeded Dinara Safina was in trouble in her first set since she quit with a back injury at the seasonending championships in October, losing the opening five games before recovering to win nine straight in a 75, 6-4 victory over Agnieszka Radwanska of Poland. Safina will next play Olympic gold medalist Elena Dementieva, who held off Slovakia’s Daniela Hantuchova 6-2, 4-6, 6-2.

Sixth-seeded Victoria Azarenka of Belarus beat Japanese veteran Kimiko Date Krumm 6-1, 5-7, 7-5. Elena Vesnina, who advanced from the first round when Zvonareva retired hurt on Monday, lost 6-3, 6-4 yesterday to Vera Dushevina, who now plays Williams in the quarterfinals.

Williams said she wasn’t bothered about how many seeded players made early exits, or how it opened up the draw for her.

“I don’t care who I play. Whenever I play someone they play their best.” she said. “I play Vera Dushevina next and she’s a good player and she’s been ranked high before.

“So whoever I play, believe me, they’re going to play like No. 1 on that particular day against me for whatever reason, so it doesn’t matter for me.”

Williams is using the Sydney tournament as her main warmup for first major of the season, which starts next Monday in Melbourne.

She won the WTA Championship on Nov. 1 and had a bye in the first round here. She spent only 1 hour, 12 minutes on court against Spanish Hopman Cup winner Martinez Sanchez as temperatures hit 33 Celsius (91 F).

Williams said she wanted to play matches to acclimatize quickly, with the southern city of Melbourne experiencing a heatwave a week ahead of the Australian Open. Safina spent 1:47 on court and dropped serve five times in a struggle against No. 10ranked Radwanska. Despite the slow start, she said the back inflammation which restricted her training until the middle of last month didn’t cause her any concerns in Sydney.

“I was 5-love down, but the only problem was I was missing everything — everything was flying all over the place,” Safina said. “So once I win a game, I’m like, ‘OK, let’s start like this. “Once it clicked, it started to be better.”

Safina, a finalist here last year and at the Australian Open, saved a set point in the first before breaking Radwanska in the match-turning 10th game and was satisfied with her comeback.

“I mean, it’s the first match of the year. If you start to cry in the first game of first match, then what can happen when it’s going to be the end of the season,” she said. “It was 20 minutes and 5-love. I thought, ‘OK, at least try to stay a little bit longer on the court.”

Kuznetsova was unable to play at leadup tournaments in Brisbane or Auckland last week because she didn’t fulfill her quota of tournaments in 2009 under the WTA’s regulations for top player commitments, so she’ll go to the Australian Open with one match for preparation.

The reigning French Open champion said she’d been playing well in training and hoped to pick up rhythm in practice at Melbourne Park this week and in the early stages of the Australian Open.

“To play good here it would be nice.

But if I didn’t, I mean, it’s not so bad thing,” she said. “Definitely I’m very worried about match today, and I have to improve and practice a lot before Australian Open, but that’s not the worst thing in the world.”

In men’s first-round matches, sixthseeded Viktor Troicki of Serbia advanced over Frenchman Florent Serra 7-6 (5), 6-4, No. 8 Benjamin Becker had a 6-3, 6-3 win over Juan Ignacio Chela of Argentina, and American Mardy Fish beat Australia’s Carsten Ball 6-4, 7-6 (4). American Sam Querrey, seeded fifth, lost 6-2, 5-7, 6-4 to Russia’s Evgeny Korolev. —AP

Novak Djokovic calls for shorter tennis season

Djokovic’s New Year wish — a shorter season, please MELBOURNE: Having played a tour-high 97 matches last year, Novak Djokovic might seem an unlikely advocate for players’ health, but the super-fit Serbian reiterated calls for a shorter tennis season yesterday.

Djokovic, whose Australian Open defence last year ended abruptly in the quarter-finals after he retired with heat exhaustion, said that top players were agitating for a longer break between seasons to preserve their bodies and careers.

“We are trying to fight for the players’ rights and I think it is very important that people understand how we feel,” the Serbian world number three told reporters.

“Listening to the top players, you get the fair point ... (The season) is just too long. And definitely, having five weeks, four weeks ... before the start of the new season is so, so little.

“We have to have at least two months and that’s the minimum, I

mean, considering the season that we are playing and the amount of matches and the level we are playing.”

Players have been at loggerheads with tour officials for several years over the length of the season, with sponsors and promoters battling to keep their tournament dates in the crowded tennis calendar.

Djokovic plays his first competitive match of 2010 at the Kooyong Classic in Melbourne on Wednesday, an invitational tournament seen as a reliable form guide for the Australian Open which starts on Monday.

The 22-year-old, elected to the ATP Players Council in 2008, said player representatives would meet officials in Australia for talks where they would press their demands.

Djokovic was backed by Spanish world number nine Fernando Verdasco, who allowed himself 10 days’ rest before taking a two-week training camp in Las Vegas to pre-

pare for the new season.

“I think every player would like to have at least two weeks off and then have more time also to prepare, you know. Not to be in a rush,” said the 26-year-old.

“I didn’t play Abu Dhabi, I didn’t play Doha that I was supposed to play because, you know, to finish in the Davis Cup on the 7th (of December) is impossible,” the Spaniard said, referring to Spain’s 5-0 win over Czech Republic that preceded season-opening tournaments in the Middle East.

Djokovic, who allowed himself two weeks’ break before plunging back into training, said the punishing calendar had even cut short his acting ambitions. “I got offered to be a part of this show which ... is about the king who is one of the biggest names in our (Serbian) history,” he said. “He was assassinated in France-I hate that part. “But for now I’m going to skip it because the scheduling is too busy for me.” —Reuters

American teenager Oudintargets number one spot

US teenager Oudin sets lofty goals for 2010 MELBOURNE: Reaching the peak of your sport is a lofty ambition but diminutive American teenager Melanie Oudin has targeted becoming women’s world number one.

The 18-year-old enjoyed a breakout year in 2009 en route to reaching the second week of two grand slams but the world number 48 hopes to improve further.

“My all-time goal is to be number one in the world one day,” Oudin told Reuters in an interview ahead of the Australia Open, which begins on Monday. “I don’t know how long that will take or if I will get there but I am going to try.”

“As for this year, the goals I have set for myself in rankings is to get to the top 32 by the French Open, so I am seeded, and then by the US Open, into the top 20.

“I think that’s pretty realistic, especially as I can finally play as many tournaments as I want now I am 18.” At just 1.68 metres tall,

Oudin is small by today’s standards in the women’s game but what she lacks in height she compensates for with strong groundstrokes and a fearless, never-say-die attitude.

As a qualifier at Wimbledon last year, she beat Serbian sixth seed Jelena Jankovic on the way to reaching the fourth round.

She followed that up at the US Open, where she stunned Russians Elena Dementieva, Maria Sharapova and Nadia Petrova to storm into the quarter-finals. “I’ve had an unbelievable past two grand slams, when I hadn’t won a round in a grand slam before Wimbledon,” Oudin said. But for all the positive comments about her play that Oudin enjoyed at the U.S. Open, it was tempered by intrusion into her family life.

“Anything that happened to me those two weeks of the Open was out there,” she said. “I didn’t get kicked out of my hotel (as one story claimed), we just moved hotels and

it became this huge story- it was like the number one thing on (search engine) Google.

“I was like, ‘what the heck?’. I don’t know why people would be so interested in that.” But despite the extra attention gained from the US Open, Oudin was keen to stress that her new found fame had not changed her.

“I’m in the public eye now and have gained a lot of attention just from one tournament, which is pretty crazy to me, but I’m still the same person.

“The only thing that’s changed is that people recognise me more and think of me as someone famous. I don’t think of myself like that at all.”

And the American is confident she can continue her impressive grand slam performances and build on her display in Melbourne last year. “Well, last year I qualified and lost first round, so I can only go up from that, which is good.” —Reuters

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

SPORTS

19

NBA results/standings NBA results and standings on Monday.

Indiana 105, Toronto 101; Philadelphia 96, New Orleans 92; Atlanta 102, Boston 96; Chicago 120, Detroit 87; Oklahoma City 106, NY Knicks 88; Denver 105, Minnesota 94; Phoenix 105, Milwaukee 101; Utah 118, Miami 89; Cleveland 117, Golden State 114.

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L PCT Boston 26 10 .722 Toronto 19 20 .487 NY Knicks 15 22 .405 Philadelphia 12 25 .324 New Jersey 3 34 .081

GB 8.5 11.5 14.5 23.5

Central Division 30 10 .750 16 20 .444 15 20 .429 12 25 .324 11 25 .306

12 12.5 16.5 17

Cleveland Chicago Milwaukee Indiana Detroit

Southeast Division Orlando 25 12 .676 Atlanta 24 13 .649 Miami 18 18 .500 Charlotte 16 19 .457 Washington 12 23 .343

1 6.5 8 12

Western Conference Northwest Division Denver 24 14 .632 Portland 23 16 .590 Oklahoma City 21 16 .568 Utah 21 17 .553 Minnesota 8 31 .205

1.5 2.5 3 16.5

Pacific Division 29 8 .784 24 14 .632 17 18 .486 15 21 .417 11 25 .306

5.5 11 13.5 17.5

LA Lakers Phoenix LA Clippers Sacramento Golden State

Southwest Division Dallas 25 12 .676 San Antonio 22 13 .629 Houston 21 16 .568 New Orleans 19 17 .528 Memphis 18 18 .500

2 4 5.5 6.5

OAKLAND: Cleveland Cavaliers’ LeBron James goes up for a shot against the Golden State Warriors during the first half of an NBA basketball game. —AP

Cavaliers stop Warriors OAKLAND: LeBron James had 37 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds as Cleveland Cavaliers ran its winning streak against Golden State Warriors to four games with a 117-114 victory Monday.

Shaquille O’Neal added 13 points and six rebounds and three Cleveland reserves scored in double digits in the Cavs’ fourth straight win at Oracle Arena.

After a victory at Portland on Sunday, the Cavaliers won playing on consecutive nights for the sixth time in 11 tries this season but had to hold off a late rally by the Warriors.

Monta Ellis had 30 points, five assists and five steals, but missed 11 straight shots during a stretch spanning the second and third quarters. Corey Maggette added 32 points and seven rebounds for Golden State, which was denied its first three-game winning streak of the season.

Hawks 102, Celtics 96 At Boston, Joe Johnson scored 36 points, shooting 5 of 7 attempts from 3-point range, to lead Atlanta over Boston. Rajon Rondo

had 26 points and seven assists for Boston.

Rasheed Wallace was a last-minute scratch because of a sore left foot, and Boston was already without Kevin Garnett.

Al Horford had nine points and 12 rebounds for Atlanta, and reserve Jamal Crawford scored 17 — including the last six of the game.

76ers 96, Hornets 92 At Philadelphia, Andre Iguodala and Elton Brand scored 18 points each and Allen Iverson added 16 as Philadelphia snapped a four-game home losing streak.

Thaddeus Young and Lou Williams added 12 points each and Samuel Dalembert had six points, 14 rebounds and five blocks for the Sixers, who had lost nine of 10 at home.

Dalembert had 12 rebounds in the first quarter, the most in one quarter by a Philadelphia player since the Wachovia Center opened for the 1996-97 season.

Emeka Okafor had 20 points and 11 rebounds, David West added 13 points and 13 rebounds and Chris Paul had 13 points

and 14 assists for the Hornets, whose season-best six-game winning streak was snapped.

Pacers 105, Raptors 101 At Indianapolis, Danny Granger scored 23 points as Indiana overcame a 23-point deficit to beat Toronto. Troy Murphy had 20 points and 16 rebounds, AJ Price scored 16 points and Mike Dunleavy added 15 for the Pacers, who had lost two straight. It was Indiana’s first win since Granger’s return from a heel injury that had kept him out for a month.

Chris Bosh had 27 points and 10 rebounds, and Andrea Bargnani added 12 points and 17 rebounds for the Raptors, who played their third game in four days.

Bulls 120, Pistons 87 At Chicago, Luol Deng scored 27 points on 13-of-18 shooting as Chicago handed Detroit its 13th consecutive loss. The Pistons matched their longest skid since losing 13 straight to end the 1993-94 season.

Derrick Rose finished with 22 points on 11-of-13 shooting for the Bulls, who shot 57.1 percent overall, including 70.6 percent in the third quarter.

Rookie Jonas Jerebko had 15 points and nine rebounds and Richard Hamilton added 17 points for the Pistons.

Thunder 106, Knicks 88 At Oklahoma City, Kevin Durant had 30 points as Oklahoma City won for the eighth time in the last 10 games. Durant, who entered the game with a 28.7-point average, had 15 in the first quarter as Oklahoma City built a double-digit lead it kept for most of the rest of the game.

Nate Robinson had 19 points for New York, which suffered its worst loss since falling by 22 points in the season opener against Miami. Russell Westbrook added 17 points and five assists for Oklahoma City.

Jazz 118, Heat 89 At Salt Lake City, Deron Williams had 23 points and 10 assists, and Carlos Boozer fin-

Matches on TV (local timings) African Nations Cup Cameroon v Gabon Al Jazeera Sport +9 Zambia v Tunisia Al Jazeera Sport +9

19:00 21:30

Italian League AC Milan v Novara Al Jazeera Sport +1

18:00

Genoa v Catania Al Jazeera Sport +1

20:30

Juventus v Napoli Al Jazeera Sport +1

22:45

the world record transfer of United’s Portugal winger Cristiano Ronaldo to Real Madrid for 80 million pounds. United also plans to raise about 500 million pounds through a notes offering to refinance existing debt.

There was no suggestion United, who reported higher turnover of 278.6 million pounds, could collapse, but Sullivan said he had looked at the finances of 20 clubs as he considers getting back into the game and was staggered at what he had found.

He said too many clubs in the Premier League and Championship (second division) had borrowed against projected income from season ticket sales and television money. “...many, many clubs have presold their Premier League income, television money,” noted Sullivan.

“They’ve borrowed against one and two and three year’s seasonticket money. They’ve borrowed against everything.

“There are several Championship sides absolutely on the line at the moment. It’s a question of whether they can sell players for sufficient money to stay alive.

“But there’s not a lot of money out there to buy players at the moment. Even some of the clubs who you think have got money really haven’t got much money to spend on players.”

Portsmouth, who are bottom of the Premier League, are in deep financial trouble and have paid their players salaries late three times this season.

The club also face a winding-up order from the government and go to the High Court today to argue the Value Added Tax portion of their tax debt is too high at 7.5 million pounds.—Reuters

Suns 105, Bucks 101 At Phoenix, Steve Nash had 30 points and 11 assists to help Phoenix rally after blowing a 24-point lead and beat Milwaukee for the 22nd consecutive time at home.

The Bucks were without coach Scott Skiles, who was hospitalized just before the game for precautionary purposes due to an irregular heartbeat. Amare Stoudemire had 23 points and 10 rebounds for Phoenix and Jason Richardson also scored 23.

Hakim Warrick led Milwaukee with 21 points and 10 rebounds and fellow reserve

Luke Ridnour scored 17. Rookie Brandon Jennings added 14 points and Andrew Bogut had 13 points and 13 rebounds. The Bucks have not beaten the Suns in Phoenix since Feb.21, 1987.

Nuggets 105, T’wolves 94 At Denver, Carmelo Anthony scored 24 points in his return from a knee injury, hitting consecutive 3-pointers midway through the fourth quarter for Denver.

The All-Star forward, who is leading the NBA in scoring at 30 points per game, missed the previous five games after bruising his right knee Dec. 28 against Sacramento.

Chauncey Billups, who returned last week from a groin injury, had 18 points and Arron Afflalo added 15 for Denver.

Corey Brewer had 25 points for the Timberwolves, who lost their fourth consecutive game on the road. Al Jefferson added 22 points and 15 rebounds while Kevin Love had 20 points and 14 rebounds for Minnesota. —AP

Torres sees salvation in Cup

English soccer clubs face financial ruin?

LONDON: An English Premier League club could collapse this year because of the parlous state of soccer finances, former Birmingham City co-owner David Sullivan warned yesterday.

Sullivan, who sold his stake in Birmingham to Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung last year, said many clubs had put their future in jeopardy by borrowing against future income and that the state of football finances was “frightening.

“We’ve looked at 20 clubs since we left Birmingham. The state of the finance of football is frightening, and I think there’s a possibility one Premier League club could go,” Sullivan told the BBC. “I think probably odds on one club will go,” he added. He was speaking the day after Red Football Ltd, Manchester United’s holding company, reported a pretax profit of 48.2 million pounds ($77.63 million) in the year to end June 2009.

However, profit was boosted by

ished with 25 points and 11 rebounds as Utah beat Miami for the first time in more than two years.

Mehmet Okur added 13 points and tied his career high with five blocks as the Jazz beat the Heat for the first time since December 2007.

Michael Beasley scored 20 points for Miami and Dwyane Wade finished with 13 points and six assists despite spraining his right wrist late in the first quarter.

Torres aims to end season with a silverware

LIVERPOOL: Fernando Torres believes Liverpool can rescue a disappointing season by winning the FA Cup and ending Anfield’s four-year wait for a trophy.

Having fallen away in the race for the Premier League title as well as being eliminated from the Champions League, the FA Cup and the Europa League represent Rafa Benitez’s last chances of ending this campaign with some silverware.

Liverpool will entertain Premier League strugglers Burnley in the fourth round of the Cup if they overcome Reading, from England’s second-tier, in a replay at Anfield today.

Although Liverpool beat Chelsea in the Community Shield in August 2006, the Merseyside club’s last major piece of silverware was in May 2006, when they defeated West Ham to win the FA Cup. Torres, at Atletico Madrid at the time, remembers watching that final on television in Spain. Despite hitting 62 goals in 104 appearances, he has yet to win anything at Liverpool but the Spain international has not given up hope of ending this season with a medal.

“I remember watching the 2006 FA Cup final when Liverpool played against West Ham, it was a great match,” said Torres.

“Jose Reina, Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher have told me all about it. “In this country it is the most important trophy after the title.

If we won it then we would play in the Community Shield. Winning gives you the chance to get more honours and that should always be our aim.

“Of course we want to finish in the top four too. If we could do that and win the FA Cup it would be the best season we’ve had for the last three or four years.

“I know we finished second last year, but to win something and finish in the top four would be better than that.”

Benitez has often used the early rounds of the FA Cup to give fringe players a chance to stake a claim, but the Spaniard insists the competition is more important than ever to Liverpool this season.

The Liverpool manager started with Gerrard and Torres in the side at the Madejski Stadium on January 2 yet the Premier League club were still held to a 1-1 draw, Gerrard’s goal earning a replay after Simon Church had given the hosts a surprise lead.

Neither side has played since after their scheduled games at the weekend were postponed because of the freezing conditions which have gripped England.

Liverpool’s home game with Tottenham on Sunday was called off 48 hours before it was due to take place, but club officials are confident the Reading tie will go ahead.

“Always in the FA Cup it’s really important to do things right,” said Benitez, who is without injured fullback Glen Johnson and suspended midfielder Javier Mascherano.

“Everyone wants to win and it’s a massive competition, so we have to be ready.”

Reading are just two points above the relegation zone and caretaker manager Brian McDermott insists staying in the Championship is the club’s principal objective.

“We must use the 1-1 draw with Liverpool to move forward and the performance has certainly galvanised us as a group,” said McDermott.

“Although it was a great occasion which saw our players perform to their undoubted potential, points in the league remain our priority.”

Iceland international striker Gunnar Thorvaldsson, who has joined Reading on loan from Danish side Esbjerg, has received international clearance but is ineligible to play at Anfield. Reading completed the loan signing of Stoke right-back Andy Griffin yesterday but he is also ineligible. —AFP

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Pharaohs shoot down Super Eagles BENGUELA: Defending champions Egypt defeated Nigeria 3-1 in their opening Africa Cup of Nations Group C match at the Ombaka Stadium here yesterday. Nigeria coach, Shuaibu Amodu, said his team paid the price for some schoolboy errors.

Preview

Egypt crush Nigeria 3-1

ANGOLA: Cameroon team warms up during a training session on the eve of their group stage match at the African Cup of Nations 2010 against Gabon. —AFP

Cameroon star Eto’o sends painful warning to Gabon LUBANGO: Star striker Samuel Eto’o says Cameroon are set to inflict more pain on neighbors Gabon when they clash today in the Africa Cup of Nations.

The central Africa countries came face to face twice within four days last September in qualifiers for the 2010 Angola tournament and a Cameroon team revitalised by French coach Paul le Guen triumphed home and away.

Inter Milan goal poacher Eto’o scored in Libreville and Yaounde and says his Nations Cup targets are to lead Cameroon to a fifth title and beat the individual goal record for one tournament.

Cameroon expect to win a mini-league completed by Tunisia and Zambia and have been widely grouped with defending champions Egypt, Ghana and Nigeria as the biggest threats to Cup favourites Ivory Coast.

Mulamba Ndaye from the Democratic Republic of Congo set a nine-goal record at the 1974 tournament in Egypt and while Eto’o has been leading scorer at the 2006 and 2008 editions, he managed only five each time.

Captain Eto’o and his Indomitable Lions launch their campaign at the new 20,000seat Chinese-built Tundavala Stadium in this southern town in the first half of a double-header completed by 2004 champions Tunisia against Zambia.

“Our nickname has plenty of significance. The lion symbolises someone who wants to command territory, earn respect and be feared. We will do our best to become kings of Africa,” Eto’o told

reporters.

“The coach united us at a difficult time last year when we had to win games. He is a great psychologist and a great coach with modern ideas. We are thrilled that his contract has been renewed.

“We are playing as a unit which explains our run of victories in the qualifying competition and are ready to challenge Ghana, Ivory Coast and Nigeria for the title.”

Eto’o, midfielders Jean Makoun and Alexandre Song, veteran defender Rigobert Song and goalkeeper Idriss Kameni form the core of a Cameroon team seeking to emulate their compatriots of 1984, 1988, 2000 and 2002 and conquer Africa.

While Cameron boast stars like Eto’o who are household names throughout the continent, out-of-favour Hull City striker Daniel Cousin is probably the best known Gabon footballer because of his English Premiership connection.

Opposing Le Guen will be compatriot Alain Giresse, who formed a magical France midfield quartet with Michel Platini, Jean Tigana and Luis Fernandez during the 1980s.

And he does not harbour fond memories of Cameroon with the Nations Cup qualifying losses coming after an equally painful defeat by their neighbours in the first edition of the African Nations Championship for local footballers.

Giresse resigned amid media and public fury after a Libreville loss eliminated Gabon from the qualifiers only to alter his decision following discussions with a sympathetic government minister. —AFP

Zambia take on Tunisia LUBANGO: Zambia were out to continue the tradition this Africa Cup of Nations is fast gaining of producing shocks against Tunisia in their Group D clash here yesterday.

Tunisia turned up in Angola wounded from missing out on a World Cup berth at the last throw of the qualifying dice.

The Carthage Eagles, who won the Nations Cup on home turf in 2004, led Nigeria for five World Cup qualifying rounds only to lose in Mozambique and be overtaken by a Super Eagles team that grabbed a late Nairobi triumph over Kenya. Coached by local man Faouzi Benzarti, who was snapped up after being sacked by Libya, Tunisia are seeded to go through with group favourites Cameroon ahead of Zambia and Gabon.

But evidence from the opening shots in this competition nothing can be taken for granted, with Angola letting slip a four goal lead against Mali, Algeria falling to Malawi, and Burkina Faso holding favourites Ivory Coast to a goalless draw.

Benzarti said: “As we have seen the first games are very difficult, even if Zambia are classed as ‘outsiders’.

“We will have to be careful and concentrate on the game to get the first three points which will be good for our team in the next two matches, especially against Cameroon who are the group’s favorites. “There are no bad teams in Africa, they’re all on the same level may the best one win.” The new man in charge added: “I’m approaching this in a very positive spirit as I can’t countenance the notion of defeat. “The aim is to qualify from the first round, and then we’ll see after that.”

Benzarti’s men are out to better their last two quarter-final exits in the biennial African competition. Their hopes of progress in Angola will in part rest on playmaker Oussama ‘Picasso’ Darragi.

The former national reject has become an instrumental figure, and gets on well with the coach who was in charge of him at Tunis club giants Esperance. Germany-based defender Karim Hagui is the lone survivor from the 2004 title winning squad. Tunisia go into the game on the back of a surprise 2-1 loss to Gambia last Saturday in a warm-up match, with their sole goal coming from Armine Chermiti in the fourth minute of injury time.

ANGOLA: Tunisian Head Coach Faouzi Benzarti (left) talks to Dhaouadhi Zouhaier (right) during a training session. —AFP Tunisia, ranked 53rd in the world, are making their 14th appearance in the Africa Cup of Nations, which puts them on a par with Zambia, whose best showings have been two runners-up spots in 1974 and 1994. Zambia are skippered by Christopher Katongo, who knows a thing or two about the command structure from his time as a Lusaka-based national army corporal.

He was promoted to sergeant after a devastating hat trick against South Africa in qualifying for the 2008 Cup. Now a professional with German second division outfit Arminia Bielefeld Christopher, who will need to rediscover his scoring touch after one goal in qualifying, is joined in the squad by his younger brother Felix.

Zambia are coached by Herve Renard, who gained invaluable experience for Angola as an assistant to the then Ghana coach Claude Le Roy in 2008. Zambia’s big problem is their scoring record, which by all accounts was abysmal with only four goals in 10 qualifying games.

Renard knows he must unlock Zambia’s attack if his side are to have any chance of causing an upset in a group that houses potential champions Cameroon and Gabon. —AFP

“We played well and controlled the game especially in the first half but somehow we made some silly mistakes and we were punished,” said a miserable Amodu.

Skipper Joseph Yobo said had they sustained their first half performance, they would have recorded maximum points.

“We started well and got a goal but they came at us and equalised, they also scored early in the second half to unsettle us.

“Had we come out in the second half as we did in the first half, we would have won this very difficult game,” said the Everton defender.

The six-time champions brought to an end a 23-year-old winless run they have endured against the west Africans and, most importantly, gave them a head start to progress to the knockout stage of the tournament.

Against the run of play, Nigeria took the lead after 12 minutes through the exciting Chinedu Obasi, who powered home a left-footed rocket of a shot from outside the box beyond a diving goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary.

Emad Motaeb drew Egypt level in the 34th minute when he got to the end of a quick counter attack initiated by Wael Gomaa and skipper Ahmed Hassan to round goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama and slot the ball into an empty net.

Skipper Hassan gave the champions the lead in the 54th minute when he thundered home a blinder past Enyeama from outside the 18-yard box.

Substitute Mohamed Nagi completed the demolition job on Nigeria in the 87th minute when he drove home a pile driver for the third goal to the delight of the noisy, 32,000strong crowd. Before that Mohamed Zidan should have extended Egypt’s lead on the hour mark when all alone with Enyeama inside the box, but he blasted wide.

Hoffenheim striker Obasi, a late inclusion in the Super Eagles squad to Angola, was at the heart of several Nigerian attacks against an Egyptian team missing key stars like Mohamed Aboutrika, Mohamed Barakat and Amr Zaki through injury.

Zidan would have put the defending champions in front after seven minutes but his final shot sailed over the bar with goalkeeper Enyeama beaten. And immediately after Obasi’s stunning opening goal, Said Moawad would have drawn Egypt level but he sliced his final effort off target.

On 23 minutes, Borussia Dortmund striker Zidan again threatened the Nigerian goal but his low shot screamed into touch to the relief of Enyeama.

Yakubu Aiyegbeni had a penalty appeal refused by the referee from Mauritius, Rajindraparsad Seechurn, in the 20th minute after Egyptian defender Mahmoud Fathalla handled the ball inside the box.

And moments later, Kalu Uche fired wide from inside the area.

In the 33rd minute, left back Taye Taiwo launched an ambitious attack down the left wing before pulling back for Kalu Uche, who failed to hit the target. It was a miss Nigeria would rue as, moments later, Egypt countered for Al Ahly striker Motaeb to score the equaliser as the Pharaohs finished the first half the stronger of the two teams.

In the second half, Egypt continued to create chances with Zidan troubling the Nigerian back four again and again, while at the other end, goalkeeper El Hadary kept out whatever Nigeria could produce as the champions showed they cannot be taken lightly in Angola. —AFP

ANGOLA: Mohamed Zidan (left) of Egypt vies for the ball with Yobo Michae of Nigeria during their Group C stage match at the African Cup of Nations 2010 at Ombaka stadium. —AFP

Our fate in our hands, says Ivory Coast coach CABINDA: Ivory Coast, held 0-0 by Burkina Faso on Monday, face the prospect of early elimination from the African Nations Cup with one of the tournament favourites having only one game lef t in Group B against Ghana.

With Togo out of the competition following a deadly gun attack on their team bus, three teams are battling it out for the two quarter-final spots from the group and defeat against Ghana on Friday could send the Elephants packing.

The Ivorians dominated on Monday but failed to convert any of their chances and now need a win against Ghana.

“We are disappointed but it’s not over yet,” coach Vahid Halilhodzic told repor ters. “We lacked a bit of luck.

“Togo being out causes us problems. It will be a difficult match against Ghana but we have our fate in our hands.”

Attacking talisman Didier Drogba said: “It is a complicated task but it is complicated for everyone.” Ivory Coast, who won their only Nations Cup in 1992, will have to be more efficient against Ghana.

On Monday Bakar y Kone was a handful for the Burkina defence but failed to convert three clear chances and missed an open goal deep into the second half.

Chelsea striker Drogba made a lively star t, having been denied a penalty in the third minute, before fading away. “Sometimes it just does not work,” said Halilhodzic who added he was satisfied with his team’s overall performance.

Manchester City defender Kolo Toure was hopeful the Ivorians could turn the situation around.

“I am confident. We are going to work hard to be ready against one of the best teams in Africa,” he said. “We need to show character.

We have the spirit, the team.” —AFP

Mozambique deny Benin first Nations Cup victory BENGUELA: Mozambique held Benin to a 2-2 draw here yesterday night to deny the west Africans their first-ever victory at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Angola 2010 is Benin’s fourth Nations Cup appearance after they debuted in the competition at the 2004 edition in Tunisia and had they defended an early two-goal lead, they would have been celebrating their inaugural victory in the tournament. Champions Egypt, who beat Nigeria earlier, lead Group C with three points, with Benin and Mozambique tied for second following this thrilling draw.

Nigeria beaten 3-1 by the defending champions, foot the table. In an open, entertaining contest, the Squirrels of Benin raced into a two-goal lead after just 20 minutes with a penalty goal by Razak Omotoyossi and an own goal by Mozambique defender Dario Khan.

The spot kick was awarded after the robust Omotoyossi was brought down inside the box by goalkeeper Joao Rafael on his way to goal. The Metz striker dusted himself off to tuck the ball home from the penalty spot in the 14th minute.

The Nigerian-born striker was also involved in the second goal as he drove into the Mozambique area and in the confusion that ensued, Khan put the ball through his own goal on 20 minutes.

However, Almiro Lobo reduced the deficit in the 29th minute when he headed home from inside the box after goalkeeper Yoann Djidonou failed to deal with a corner and left the Benin defence in all sorts of bother. Before all these goals, the Mambas of Mozambique got a chance as early as the 11th minute to take the lead but their most experienced player and skipper, Manuel Bucuane aka ‘Tiko Tiko’, failed to connect from inside the box.

To the credit of Mozambique, they did not allow Benin’s early advantage to subdue their

attacking instincts as they kept going at their opponents to the delight of the packed 35,000capacity Ombaka Stadium as the locals threw their support behind their fellow Portuguese-speaking country. Right from the restart, Omotoyossi would have again got on the score sheet but he lost his footing at the crucial moment inside the six-yard box with goalkeeper Rafael again looking very shaky and unsure of himself.

However, it was Mozambique who scored again in the 54th minute when Goncalves Fumo netted the equaliser after a quick counter attack caught the Benin goalkeeper out of position.

Benin fought back for a winner with Paris Saint Germain star Stephane Sessegnon, Omotoyossi and Guingamp midfielder Muri Ogounbiyi, who was a major injury doubt for this encounter after he suffered a thigh strain in training, prompting their attacks. In the 70th minute, ‘Tiko Tiko’ fired home a pile drive which missed narrowly, but it was the fumbling goalkeeper Rafael, who would have gifted Benin the match winner in the 85th minute when he appeared to have saved off the feet of Mickael Pote only to lose the ball in spectacular fashion moments later. —AFP

Group C standings BENGUELA: Africa Cup of Nations Group C standings after late match yesterday (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, against, points): Egypt 1 1 0 0 3 1 3 Benin 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 Mozambique 1 0 1 0 2 2 1 Nigeria 1 0 0 1 1 3 0 Note: Group winners and runners-up qualify for quarter-finals

ANGOLA: Imorou Emmanuel (left) of Benin vies for the ball with Khan Dario of Mozambique during their Group C stage match at the African Cup of Nations 2010. —AFP

EQUATE honors oil sector leaders

Burgan Bank gets approval to raise capital

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Singapore Airlines continues to win accolades

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

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US trade gap widens in Nov on import jump Alcoa pummels US stocks • Surge in Q4 exports seen WASHINGTON: The US trade deficit ballooned in November, as the price of imported oil jumped more than $5 per barrel and as revived consumer and manufacturer demand pushed imports to their highest in nearly a year.

The monthly trade gap grew 9.7 percent to $36.4 billion, from an upwardly revised estimate of $33.2 billion in October, a Commerce Department report showed yesterday.

Analysts said the trade data was generally good news for the economy, since it showed demand picking up as the United States emerges from the deepest recession since the 1930s. “A lot of (the increase) had to do with oil prices,” said James O’Sullivan, chief economist at MF Global in New York.

“You are still on track for a

big surge in exports in the fourth quarter ... This is still consistent with the global economic recovery,” he said.

Macroeconomic Advisers nudged its estimate of US fourth quarter economic growth slightly higher to 5.6 percent but others said the report was neutral or slightly negative.

US imports of goods and services jumped 2.6 percent to $174.6 billion, the highest since December 2008. The average price for a barrel of imported oil rose to $72.54, the highest since October 2008, but volume was the lowest in more than 10 years.

The overall import jump reflected gains in industrial supplies and materials, consumer goods and capital goods, which more than offset slight declines for food and auto imports. The trade data had little impact on financial

Cargo ships wait to be unloaded at the Port of Oakland in Oakland, California. The US trade deficit jumped to the highest level in 10 months yesterday as an improving US economy pushed up demand for imports. — AP

markets. US stocks opened lower, weighed down by disappointing earnings from Alcoa Inc and an earnings warning from Chevron Corp.

US exports of goods and services rose by a less-robust 0.9 percent in November to $138.2 billion, the highest in a year. The weak US dollar has given exports a boost, but they are still well below the peak of $164.4 billion set in July 2008 before the global financial sent trade plummeting.

The November tally included a record $7.3 billion to China, beating the record set just one month before.

Soybeans were the major cause of the increase in exports to China in both October and November, as US suppliers stepped in to fill a shortage caused by drought in Argentina.

US semiconductor exports

to China were down $1.5 billion in the first 11 months of 2009, as the US trade deficit for advanced technology goods hit a record in November. Further gains in US exports to China might be difficult because of what most economists agree is a significantly undervalued Chinese currency, which gives Chinese companies a big price advantage over foreign competitors. US food, feed and beverage exports posted the biggest overall gain in November, followed by autos and capital goods. Exports of consumer goods and industrial materials showed slight declines.

Meanwhile, the annual US trade gap appears likely to fall below $400 billion in 2009 for first time since 2001. Through the end of November, the trade gap totaled $340.6 billion. —Reuters

Local UAE banks turn to ME bank stocks slide as regional sentiment sours Arab group for loans MIDEAST STOCK MARKETS ABU DHABI: Local banks in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are tapping the Arab Trade Financing Program (ATFP) for loans due to lower costs, the program’s chief said yesterday.

The ATFP has loaned $640 million to banks in the UAE, a large part made in the last two to three years, Jassim Al Mannai, chief executive of ATFP said.

The ATFP, set up in 1989 as a subsidiary of the Arab Monetary Fund (AMF), finances foreign trade of Arab countries.

“Our cost is much lower than others.

We lend at Libor (London interbank offered rate) with a small spread to cover administrative expenses, but overall our costs are lower than the market rate,” Mannai, who is also chairman of the AMF, told reporters without elaborating.

Banks in the UAE have been grappling for funds as liquidity dried up due

to the financial downturn since 2008.

“Liquidity in the last few years has been lower than before because of the crisis.

But each bank’s situation is different for coming to the ATFP,” he said, adding that the last year was the most active when banks sought loans from ATFP. Abu Dhabi-based Union National Bank secured a $40 million line of credit from the ATFP yesterday, taking the bank’s total borrowing from the ATFP to $290 million.

“It is not only financial support but a sort of message for the bank to increase trade activities for Arab countries,” said Mohamed Nasr Abdeen, CEO of UNB. “The bank will see a reasonable increase in financing in 2010 despite its conservative approach and the economic position,” he said without giving figures. —Reuters

DUBAI: Middle East bank stocks slumped yesterday following further disappointing results from Saudi Arabia lenders, while other sectors also declined as sentiment soured regionally and globally.

Dubai fell 2.4 percent, Qatar made its biggest one-day loss for five weeks, Saudi Arabia fell for a third day and Kuwait and Abu Dhabi also declined. Egypt, Oman and Bahrain all rose.

Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jazira Bank slipped to a nine-month low its fourth-quarter losses widened, while smaller rival Arab National Bank also ended lower after its net profit fell. Saudi Hollandi Bank and Banque Saudi Fransi both declined for a second day since reporting below-forecast earnings. Across the Middle

East, about five times as many bank stocks declined as advanced.

“The lead from Saudi banks was negative, Asia was weaker and oil has slipped, so a flat-to-negative day (was) to be expected,” said Ian Munro, MAC Capital head of research.

Saudi Arabia’s market was steady, falling 0.4 percent, and Musa Haddad, head of MENA equity desk at National Bank of Abu Dhabi, said he was bullish on the bank sector’s prospects.

“Saudi is holding pretty well and looks good, we’re still positive on the market so long as it holds above 6,150 to 6,200 points,” said Haddad. “It could be the banking

sector that leads a rally in Saudi Arabia, despite the bad figures.”

The Saudi banking index rose 15 percent last year, lagging the petrochemicals index, which surged 65 percent over the same period, so a catch-up play is possible in the longer term, providing bank provisions fall, analysts say. The immediate outlook for the Dubai bourse appeared bleaker, however, after late-selling sent stocks tumbling.

Arabtec extended its slump, falling 5 percent to take its losses to 15 percent since saying it would sell a majority stake to Aabar Investments in a deal that will dilute existing holdings.

Aabar fell 0.4 percent. “Investors are bearish in the short-term for Arabtec because of the dilution effect, but there is value for medium- to long-term, so investors want to sell at current levels and then buy back once the dilution has taken place,” said Marwan Shurrab, vice-president at Gulfmena Alternative Investments.

Emaar Properties fell 4.4 percent to a three-week closing low, taking its losses to 10 percent since hitting a six-week high on Jan. 4.

“People don’t want the stock,” said NBAD’s Haddad. “Even though Emaar went up, it was on

small volumes and didn’t break any new resistances and is trading below short, medium- and long-term moving averages, which signals people are exiting.”

In Doha, investors dumped merger targets Barwa Real Estate and Qatar Real Estate (Alaqaria). Barwa dropped 5.8 percent to a five-month low and Alaqaria fell 4.9 percent. “Like all other markets we are waiting for a lead from financial results,” said Mohamed Abu Ghoush, head of equities brokerage at Ah-Ahli Bank. Oil fell below $82 a barrel, slipping from Monday’s 15-month high. World stocks dropped and Wall Street looked set for a poor start as investors digested early results from the US and European that came in below estimates. — Reuters

DETROIT AUTO SHOW

Optimism as industry banks on recovery DETROIT: A revved up sense of optimism has filled the Detroit auto show as the industry looked forward to a recovery from one of its worst years on record.

Automakers are still reeling from a collapse in sales to levels not seen since 1983, bankrupting General Motors and Chrysler and dethroning the Detroit Three as the biggest sellers in the US market.

China also surpassed the United States for the first time as the world’s biggest vehicle market, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers announced in Beijing Monday.

But the overall mood is significantly more upbeat than a year earlier when GM and Chrysler’s very existence was in doubt as Congress sparred over providing billions of dollars in emergency loans.

“Today is a new beginning for the automotive industry,” Transportation Secretary Ray L aHood told reporters.

“When people have an opportunity to see the kind of products that are now being manufactured and will be on display, they will realize the auto industry is manufacturing products people want to drive.”

Ford, GM, Toyota and Honda kicked off the show by highlighting their focus on fuel-efficient vehicles. Ford-

DETROIT: Singer Susan Calloway performs during the introduction of the 2011 Lincoln MKX during the press preview for the world automotive media at the North American International Auto Show in Cobo Center yesterday. —AP photos which managed to both stay afloat without a government bailout and increase its piece of the shrunken US market in 2009 — introduced a muchanticipated update to its compact Ford Focus sedan.

“Companies have to pay

attention to the three Es: economy, efficient and the environment,” chairman Bill Ford said as he touted the automaker’s new global vehicle platforms, which will radically reduce costs. Toyota unveiled a prototype of a

compact dedicated hybrid vehicle-the FT-CH-while Honda revealed a hybrid sports coupe — the CR-Zthat will hit US showrooms later this year.

GM introduced a boxy, low-lying new compact sport utility vehicle, the GMC Granite, a “concept” aimed at young, urban drivers if it ends up being tapped for mass market production.

The automaker also introduced several smaller cars to be sold under its Chevrolet brand, including the Spark mini car and a sporty Aveo prototype.

Notably absent from the schedule was Chrysler, which had little to present after the turmoil of a painful divorce from Daimler, a brief takeover by private equity group Cerberus and a quick spin through bankruptcy that left the number three US automaker under the management of Italy’s Fiat.

Yet new chief Sergio Marchionne was on hand to speak with the media and give lawmakers a tour of the scaled-back Chrysler display, filled with aggressive trucks, muscle cars, shiny new sports cars and-thanks to the alliance with Fiat-Maserati, Ferrari and the Fiat 500 minicar.

A congressional delegation led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi saw a strong emphasis on small cars and fuel effi-

DETROIT: Journalists gather on stage after the Lincoln news conference at the North American International Auto Show yesterday. ciency at the show, with a 37,000-square-foot (3,440square-meter) exhibit of 20 different electric vehicles replete with a tree-lined test track.

There were also plenty of luxury vehicles on display despite the poor economy and a host of trucks and sport utility vehicles to tempt consumers who are less environmentally conscious.

“What we saw here today was vibrant, optimistic leadership to leapfrog over the competition and to keep America number one,” Pelosi said.

“Our hopes are riding on the auto industry succeeding in our country and we thank all those who are making the progress possible.” Yet in a sign that competition is going to be fierce in 2010, optimism

was also being voiced by international manufacturers bent on snagging greater

market share here.

Nissan hopes to take advantage of a weakened

DETROIT: General Motors Corp Vice President, US Sales Susan Docherty, left, talks to General Motors’ Chairman Ed Whitacre Jr. before the Cadillac news conference at the North American International Auto Show yesterday.

Detroit to grow its share of US sales with eight products hitting the market in the next 12 months, including a highprofile electric car, the Japanese automaker’s top US executive told AFP. “2010 is going to be for us a very strong year in terms of product,” Carlos Tavares, executive vice president in charge of the Americas, said in an interview Monday.

Most analysts forecast a moderate rebound in US auto sales to between 11 and 12.5 million vehicles this year after dropping 21 percent to 10.4 million in 2009.

That will still be drastically below the 15 to 17 million range posted in each of the previous 15 years and sales could be sharply hit should the economy take another bad turn. — AFP

BUSINESS

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Inflations slowed sharply last year

Oman GDP grew 3.7% in ’09, beat forecast, says report

DOHA: (From right to left): Mohammed Khair from Deloitte, Mohamed Ali Al-Khulaifi, Executive General Manager, COO of Qatar National Bank (QNB), Mazaya Qatar Chairman Rashid Fahad Al Naimi and Mazaya Qatar Managing Director Seraj Saleh Al Baker attend the press conference.

Mazaya Qatar announces QR500m IPO in Doha DOHA: Mazaya Qatar Real Estate Development Company (QSC) revealed in a press conference held at the Grand Hyatt Doha yesterday the launch of its QR500 million initial public offering (IPO).

The company will offer 50 million shares, representing 50 percent of total capital, for subscription from 17 to 31 January. The nominal value per share will be QR10, to be fully paid upon subscription in order to raise QR500 million, added to offering cost of Dh50 per share which will be used to cover costs and fees incurred

on the IPO. Should the IPO be oversubscribed before the closing day, the subscription will remain open until the closing date.

Subscription forums are available at the Qatar National Bank, Commercial Bank of Qatar, Al-Ahli Bank, Doha Bank, International Bank of Qatar, Qatar Islamic Bank, Arab Bank, and Al Khalij Commercial Bank.

Present at the press conference were Mazaya Qatar Chairman Rashid Fahad Al Naimi and Managing Director Seraj Saleh Al Baker, a num-

ber of Mazaya Qatar’s board members, Mohamed Ali AlKhulaifi, Executive General Manager, COO of Qatar National Bank (QNB), Mr Ahmed Ismail Moussa, General Manager of Investment House Company and representatives of local and regional media.

In his statement on the occasion, Al Naimi said: “The global crisis has had a clear impact on various economic sectors all over the world.

However, the impact on the Qatari market has been minimal, thanks be to Allah and the

directions of Qatar’s visionary leadership.

The current healthy market conditions will amply vindicate Qatar’s position as a safe and lucrative investment destination”.

Al Baker presented brief details of the IPO process: “Following an in-depth study and analysis of local and regional market trends, we concluded that the current period is a good time to launch projects and to set up investment portfolios based on strong foundations, taking into account the market needs and the supply and demand index”.

MUSCAT: Oman’s economy grew 3.7 percent in real terms in 2009, well above the expectations of the Gulf Arab country’s government and analysts, while inflation slowed sharply, an economy ministry source said yesterday.

The global financial crisis slashed growth rates across the world’s largest oil exporting region last year. NonOPEC member Oman was less affected than fellow oil exporters because it did not have to join oil output cuts mandated by the cartel. “The GDP growth of 3.7 percent in 2009 was due to higher oil prices than predicted in the 2009 budget,” the source told Reuters.

Economy Minister Ahmad Mekki said in December that he expected the economy to grow by a sluggish 1-2 percent in 2009 after it was hit by lower oil prices in the second quarter.

Analysts polled by Reuters forecast 3.0 percent for 2009 and 4.3 percent this year, after growth of 7.6 percent in 2008.

The sultanate’s GDP is forecast to expand by 6.1 percent in real terms in 2010 due higher revenues following recovery in oil prices, Mekki said earlier this month.

Oman based its 2009 budget at an oil price of $45 per barrel but sold at an average of $56.7 last year. Inflation decelerated to 3.6 percent in 2009, from a record peak of 12.4 percent in 2008, the source also said.

“This is due to a drop in global market prices that led to reduced demand for commodities,” the source said. The oil producer’s consumer price growth was expected to stand at 3.0 percent on average in 2009 and 5.0 percent this year, the Reuters poll showed.

Mekki saw inflation at 3.5 percent this year. —Reuters

Congratulations Kuwait Bahrain Exchange/Western Union car winner!

KUWAIT: Sixth and final draw of KBE/Western Union Car Promotion launched by Kuwait Bahrain International Exchange Company was conducted at the head office premises of KBE on January 11 in the presence of officials from Ministry of Commerce and Abdul Rub Tariq, General Manager of KBE said,” We congratulate the winner of Mitsubishi Lancer Car Sara Mazied Ali, Kuwaiti National, Civil ID No 267111000903 Western Union Money Transfer

Control Number 3296708846.

Kuwait Bahrain International Exchange Company and Western Union have offered six Mitsubishi cars won by customers who sent money through Western Union from KBE branches from July to 5th January 2010. We congratulate winners of all six Mitsubishi Lancer cars offered to KBE/Western Union customers and thank all our valued customers who participated in the promotional campaign,” he said.

EQUATE honors oil sector leaders Al-Terkait: EQUATE’s success is result of oil sector support KUWAIT: EQUATE Petrochemical Company President & CEO Hamad AlTerkait said the Company’s world-class achievements are a result of the unwavering support extended by Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) and subsidiaries.

During a ceremony to honor the senior management of some oil sector companies that played a critical role in realizing EQUATE’s 2009 objectives and the commercial operations of new production units, AlTerkait added that this event is implementation of EQUATE’s Sharing Success philosophy with all stakeholders.

Al-Terkait noted that such support extended to EQUATE

since inception affirms the positive role played by KPC and subsidiaries in the growth of Kuwait’s industrial sector, which stems from their belief in the petrochemical industry as being one of the best alternatives for diversifying Kuwait’s income sources through supporting economic and industrial ventures to ensure the country’s overall sustainability.

On his part, EQUATE Ethylene Unit Leader Mohammad Al-Shamary said that cooperation and collaboration between EQUATE and oil sector companies has reached an excellent level due to the sincere desire to serve Kuwait in the best possible way through hard work and dedication,

adding that such collaboration has greatly boosted EQUATE’s performance and world-class status.

Considered one of the world’s leading companies in producing Polyethylene and Ethylene Glycol, EQUATE was established in 1995 and it is presently a joint venture between Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC), The Dow Chemical Company (Dow), Boubyan Petrochemical Company (BPC) and Qurain Petrochemical Industries Company (QPIC). It commenced production in 1997 and currently provides markets in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe with high quality petrochemical products.

Qatar, Exxon petchem plant to cost $6 billion DUBAI: Qatar Petroleum and Exxon Mobil’s planned petrochemical complex will cost about $6 billion, Qatar’s oil minister said in a speech carried by the Kuwait’s state news agency KU. That was about double the initial estimated cost of the plant. The two companies gave no updated cost estimate when they announced they had signed a deal to build the complex last week.

The plant would be 51 percent owned by Qatar Petroleum and was due to start up in fourth quarter of 2015. It would include one of the largest ethylene glycol plants in the world, Attiyah said.

The complex in the industrial city of Ras Laffan includes a 1.6 million tonnes per year (tpy) steam cracker and associated units including two 650 tpy polyethylene plants and a 700 tpy ethylene glycol facilities.

Qatar is the world’s largest producer of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and Exxon is the largest foreign investor in the Gulf Arab state.

Exxon has stakes in several of Qatar’s LNG projects. In a separate report on Qatar’s state news agency QNA, an Exxon executive said the company would spend around $100 million in Qatar on reducing carbon emissions. —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 US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian dollars Danish Kroner Swedish Kroner Australian dlr Hong Kong dlr Singapore dlr Japanese yen Indian Rs/KD Sri Lanka rupee Pakistan rupee Bangladesh taka UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi Riyal/KD Omani riyals Philippine Peso US Dollar Sterling pounds Swiss Francs Saudi Riyals

.2830000 .4570000 .4120000 .2780000 .2740000 .2630000 .0045000 .0020000 .0775980 .7560150 .4020000 .0750000 .7408820 .0045000 .0500000 CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES .2858500 .4597850 .4141110 .2806850 .2761160 .0556540 .0404910 .2651410 .0368570 .2055820 .0030990 .0063160 .0025070 .0033930 .0041880 .0778650 .7586130 .4042730 .0762660 .7428450 .0063100 TRANSFER CHEQUES RATES .2879500 .4630330 .2826730 .0767520

.2930000 .4680000 .4190000 .2870000 .2830000 .2710000 .0075000 .0035000 .0783780 .7636130 .4180000 .0790000 .7483280 .0072000 .0570000 .2879500 .4630330 .4173060 .2826730 .2780720 .0560480 .0407770 .2670140 .0371180 .2070390 .0031210 .0063610 .0025250 .0034170 .0042180 .0783620 .7634510 .4071370 .0767520 .7475830 .0063540

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 287.150 Euro 417.800

Sterling Pound Canadian dollar Turkish lire Swiss Franc Australian dollar US Dollar Buying 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 Egyptian Pound - Cash Egyptian Pound Yemen Riyal Tunisian Dinar Jordanian Dinar Lebanese Lira Syrian Lier Morocco Dirham Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham 20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

464.200 283.500 197.900 283.500 266.100 285.000 ASIAN COUNTRIES 3.131 6.308 3.381 2.507 3.957 207.200 37.044 4.155 6.286 8.722 0.301 0.292 ARAB COUNTRIES 55.250 52.730 1.389 222.300 405.700 194.020 6.322 37.390 GCC COUNTRIES 76.614 78.931 746.330 763.000 78.243 GOLD 227.000 116.000 61.000

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 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 10 Tola Sterling Pound US Dollar

SELL CASH 270.000 763.480 4.480 281.000 692.700 15.800 56.200 55.190 420.500

37.570 6.315

406.090 0.193 87.790 3.970 214.600

SELL DRAFT 268.500 763.480 4.158 279.500

52.729 419.000

US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Cyprus Pound Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees

287.000 278.945 463.835 418.425 281.535 720.855 761.055 78.250 78.765 76.560 404.990 52.745 6.315 3.385

Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees

2.510 4.165 6.280 3.115 8.665 5.530 3.885

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co. Currency

745.580 3.395 6.290 78.970 76.650 207.800 41.380 2.506 464.500 284.000 8.870 78.340 287.100

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd

Bahrain Exchange Company COUNTRY Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Egyptian pound Euro Cash

37.720 6.520 0.034 0.290 0.259 3.200 407.400 0.194 87.790 38.900 4.230 216.100 2.183 51.800 745.760 3.490 6.450 79.400 76.650 207.800 41.380 2.758 466.500 41.400 285.500 6.400 9.030 222.000 78.340 287.500 1.430 GOLD 1,239.030 TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 464.500 287.100

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 Jordanian Dinars Syrian Pounds Euro Candaian Dollars

286.950 3.395 6.320 2.515 4.165 6.310 78.165 76.640 762.900 52.725 467.200 0.0000306 1.550 407.700 5.750 421.300 284.500

Al Mulla Exchange Currency

Transfer rate

US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling 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

286.800 418.500 463.500 3.140 6.305 52.690 2.506 4.148 6.295 3.380 762.850 78.200 76.550

BUSINESS

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

23

Kuwait’s budget outlook remains strong Crude prices renew upward march after early December pullback

NBK ECONOMIC REPORT KUWAIT: In its latest economic brief on the oil market and budget developments, NBK noted that, after a relatively stable November, crude prices saw considerable volatility through December. The price of Kuwait Export Crude (KEC) dropped $8 per barrel (pb) to $71 pb in the first half of December, before rallying back to $77 by the end of the month and to nearly $80 by 7th January - a new post recovery high.

The initial fall may have been driven by a strengthening of the US dollar, which appreciated by 4% in tradeweighted terms between December 1 and 17. But crude prices began rising again after this burst of support for the dollar abated.

Later in the month, crude prices also drew support from more fundamental factors, notably the continued decline in oil and oil product inventory levels in the US (though admittedly from still high levels), as well as relatively upbeat signals from macro indicators around the world, particularly purchasing manager indices of industrial activity.

These data provided backing for the more bullish analysts who expect crude prices to be well supported by supply and demand dynamics through 2010.

The prices of global benchmark crudes also resumed their upward march in the second half of

December. The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, for example - which had traded at a discount to other crudes in early December as a result of storage constraints in the US - had recovered to over $83 pb by 6th January, its highest since October 2009. On average, the price of WTI stood at $62 in 2009, down 38% on its average for 2008, but ended the year more than double the low of $34 pb recorded in midFebruary. For some analysts, the sharp recovery in prices through 2009 was not only a result of dollar weakness, but evidence that demand growth in emerging markets - which was surprisingly robust last year has become more influential in determining the price of oil than conditions in traditionally important markets, especially the US. In the light of growing confidence about the outlook for world economic growth, NBK wrote that some of the more pessimistic forecasts for global oil demand in 2010 have gradually been upgraded. The Centre for Global Energy Studies (CGES), for example - which has long held downbeat views on the prospects for 2010 - has revised up its forecast for incremental oil demand this year to 1.0 million barrels per day (mbpd, 1.2%) from 0.7 mbpd a month earlier. The centre expects virtually all of the growth to come from outside the

OECD. On the other hand, the US based International Energy Agency (IEA) has consistently been at the bullish end of the spectrum, and has nudged up its forecast for 2010 oil demand growth by 0.1 mbpd to nearly 1.5 mbpd (1.7%). Although it expects no growth from within the OECD, it believes that the prospects for the region have improved.

Despite these upgrades, it should be noted that given the sharp drop expected to have been registered in 2009 - perhaps 1.5 mbpd - the forecast increases for 2010 are still not that strong.

Crude output of the OPEC-11 (i.e. excluding Iraq) continued to

creep up through November, rising by 41,000 bpd to stand at 26.611 mbpd. This was the eighth successive monthly increase, leaving output nearly 900,000 bpd (3%) off its March floor and around 7% above the official quota levels. At their meeting on December 22nd, OPEC members appeared to sidestep the issue of ‘official’ versus ‘actual’ production levels by declaring that although output would be left unchanged, members remain committed to their individual quota allocations - a seemingly contradictory stance. Yet with crude prices now at levels that the organization is comfortable with, members are having to

tread carefully to avoid upsetting the market balance. The cartel’s statement made it clear that they remain cautious about the strength and durability of the world economic recovery, and hence growth in the demand for oil. But should recent signs of recovery be sustained, the organization may look to ease its cautious stance at its next meeting on March 17.

Despite the apparently improving oil market fundamentals, NBK also noted that there is still scope for prices to ease back over the coming year, with sluggish demand and high stock levels beginning to weigh on the market once winter demand sub-

Income generating projects start in 2010

KUWAIT: Tariq AbdulSalam and other Burgan Bank officials address the general assembly.

Burgan Bank gets approval at general assembly to up capital KUWAIT: Burgan Bank, amongst the leading regional banks in the state of Kuwait confirmed that it has received all the necessary approvals from the Central Bank of Kuwait and its shareholders at the General Assembly meeting which took place on the 11th of January. It will increase its share capital by KD 36 million by distributing 360 million shares each at a nominal value of 100 fils and a premium of 180 fils, yielding a total of KD 100.8 million.

As of 30th September 2009, Burgan Bank’s Share Capital was KD 104.1 million and the Shareholders equity was KD 330.4 million.

Commenting on the increase in capital, Tariq AbdulSalam, Burgan Bank Chairman said, “We are very pleased to confirm that we will be proceeding with the increase of our capital as announced late last year. This is the resultant of our aggressive growth and expansion plans. We look forward to a positive and progressive year in 2010 and we are now even more strongly positioned to continue our growth strategy. On behalf of the Burgan Bank board and management, I would like to thank the Central Bank of Kuwait for their support and our shareholders for their continued commitment to the Bank”.

Qatar national entities and Airbus announce environmental initiative DOHA: Qatar Airways, Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) and Qatar Petroleum (QP) announced yesterday that they will jointly carry out engineering, economic analysis and move into the development of sustainable bio jet fuel that will also look into ways for production and supply, with the support of Airbus.

The ground-breaking initiative - a world first - comes just months after the State of Qatar’s national airline completed an historical milestone in the aviation industry.

Qatar Airways successfully conducted the world’s first commercial flight powered by a Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) fuel blend last October, which proved to be a significant development in the use of alternative fuels.

Addressing a press conference in Doha yesterday, Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said: “Building on the experience and success of the GTL Consortium, we now move to the next phase of alternative fuels while continuing to develop GTL further. While others talk, we take action!”

Seven months ago, Qatar Airways, Qatar Science & Technology Park together with US-based Verno Systems Inc., embarked on a very comprehensive and detailed feasibility study on sustainable Biomass-toLiquid (BTL) jet fuel and

possible by-products such as bio diesel.

This study looked at all available bio feed stocks that would not affect the food or fresh water supply chain. It also looked at existing and future production technologies with a viability analysis.

Based on the result of this in-depth study, the partners have agreed to establish the “Qatar Advanced Biofuel Platform” (QABP) which will lead activities in the following four areas.

• A detailed engineering and implementation plan for economically viable and sustainable bio fuel production • A bio fuel investment strategy • An advanced technology development program • Ongoing market and strategic analysis These activities will be built on, and primarily motivated by, the objective of executing advanced bio fuel projects - with Qatar Airways initially as a dedicated enduser.

QABP will be structured so that it can be expanded to include additional projects, technologies, investments and partnerships globally.

QABP takes a portfolio approach to the development of advanced bio fuels across feed stocks, technologies and geographies in order to meet our short, medium and long term goals.

Specific feed stocks have been identified which could be developed and processed

Assuming that oil prices for the remainder of 1Q10 do not stray too far, the price of KEC for FY2009/10 as a whole will average $67-68 pb, far higher than many were predicting halfway through the year or the $35 pb assumed in Kuwait’s budget.

Indeed, this year’s budget is almost certain to register another huge surplus. If, as we expect, public expenditures come in at 5-10% below the budget plans, the government should record a surplus of between KD 5.2 and 6.4 billion, before allocating 10% of revenues to the Reserve Fund for Future Generations (RFFG).

Although it is early days, if oil prices end-up in the $56-79 range implied by the three scenarios above, the prospects for the FY2010/11 budget seem set to remain fairly favorable. Local media reports have suggested that planned government spending may rise by around 35% to KD 16.3 billion next year, although this is likely to include a large inter-governmental transfer to the Public Institute for Social Security. Even with this exceptional item of spending, however, the budget is likely to remain in balance and could even see a surplus as high as KD 4.8 billion in our “high” scenario. Two consecutive years of surplus would represent a stark contrast to the fiscal positions of governments in other parts of the world, who are set to embark on a period of huge cutbacks.

Al-Mazaya strategies shielded company operations in 2009

Certified coffee at IKEA KUWAIT: We want IKEA customers and co-workers to know that the coffee they drink is produced in a responsible manner. This is why all coffee sold and served at IKEA will be certified and traceable all the way back to the plantations.

UTZ certified means that plantation workers’ families have access to reasonable housing, healthcare and schooling for the children. Coffee production must minimize the use of water, artificial fertilizers and pesticides. Farmers receive training and support to increase their productivity and costeffectiveness at the same time as the quality of the coffee is improved.

Millions of people eat at the IKEA restaurant and Bistro Cafe. In order for the food to offer good value for money and be tasty, safe to eat and yet be produced with consideration to the environment, all food suppliers comply with the code of conduct requirements in the IKEA way on purchasing food making sure people’s safety comes first.

sides. On the demand side, global demand growth in 2010 is assumed to come in along the lines of the 1.0 mbpd projected by the CGES. Although OPEC leaves its crude production more or less unchanged from 4Q09 levels, global supply is given a boost from both a small (0.2 mbpd) annual increase in non-OPEC supply and a 0.5 mbpd rise in OPEC NGLs (natural gas liquids, which are not subject to quota constraints) in the second half of the year. Under this scenario, the price of KEC slips back to below $70 in 1Q10 and ends the year in the low-to-mid $60 range.

On the other hand, oil demand growth in 2010 could turn out to be stronger - perhaps closer to the 1.5 mbpd assumed by the IEA - as a result of a potentially cold winter and better-than-expected world economic growth. In this scenario, modest increases in non-OPEC supply would not be enough to prevent rising demand eating into global stock cover as the year goes on. The price of KEC would be back in the mid$80s by the start of next year.

Alternatively, a combination of modest demand and a larger-thanexpected increase in non-OPEC crude supply in 2010 - perhaps an extra 0.2 mbpd on average - could push prices significantly lower, perhaps to just above $50 by the end of the year. Such a scenario, however, would surely require OPEC to be unwilling or unable to cut back production from current levels.

with the aim of providing access to BTL jet fuel for use

by Qatar Airways.

“Qatar Airways already has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry due to its investment of billions of US dollars in a state-of-the art aircraft fleet. By entering into the production and supply of bio jet fuels, we will be able to get closer and closer to the “much talked about” carbon neutral growth,” said Al Baker.

Together with its national entities, Qatar Science & Technology Park, Qatar Petroleum and leading aircraft manufacturer Airbus, it is the aim of Qatar Airways to make the State of Qatar one of the global leaders for advanced bio fuels.

“Following along the

Airbus Alternative Fuels Roadmap, by launching this new initiative with Qatar Airways, we have taken yet another important step to reach carbon neutral growth in the aviation sector by 2020. This industry-wide cooperation will achieve real progress in finding sustainable fuel alternatives,” said Tom Enders, Airbus President and Chief Executive Officer.

Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Director Oil & Gas Ventures at Qatar Petroleum, said: “Qatar Petroleum is committed to supply clean fuels to the world. We are currently the world’s largest supplier of LNG and GTL products and our participation in this project demonstrates our eagerness to further investi-

gate the developing new clean fuels.”

Dr Tidu Maini, Chairman of Qatar Science & Technology Park, added: “The commitment of Qatar Airways and its partners to ensure that new aviation fuel technology is effectively applied is a great example of the kind of research being pioneered at QSTP through its partners. Research activities on alternative and environmentally-friendly fuels like BTL will establish QSTP as a leading international hub for the application of new platform technologies. This is a great example of an effective multi-partner collaborative research and development programme which is already producing successful outcomes.”

KUWAIT: “2009 was a year of great experience and learning across the board, particularly in the areas of economic and community development. As we enter 2010, we have put in place rigorous plans and strategies to meet with the ever-changing status of the market with the aim to achieve big profits for the company and the shareholders, particularly after the internal re-structuring of Al Mazaya and the internal adjustments made to some projects, which will see Al Mazaya achieve big profits and stay on the right track.” So said Eng. Khalid Esbaitah, CEO and Managing Director of Al Mazaya, speaking of Al Mazaya and the market performance in 2009, and talking about the company plans for 2010.

Esbaitah first talked about Al Mazaya’s projects, saying that the total size of projects amounted to USD 10 billion distributed across projects in Kuwait, KSA and the UAE, with most projects being nearly completed. He added that Al Mazaya continued to develop its projects even during the apex of the financial crisis without asking for funding, due to the fact that these projects are largely sold and are funded through Al Mazaya’s own cash flow.

He then moved to talk about the real estate market in Kuwait, noting that the market did not suffer the same drawbacks as many other markets in the region, mainly because the Kuwait property market maintained its privacy and was not exposed to foreign investments and mega real estate projects, and will continue its usual performance with slight improvement in 2010 due to several positive factors that have contributed to the return of confidence in the region’s markets last month, such as the rescheduling of some companies’ payments, the Bank of Kuwait and the Middle East change to Islamic banking, renewal of confidence in the Prime Minister of Kuwait and the significant recent rise in financial exchanges in the Kuwait Stock Exchange Market”.

“We expect more activity for profitable projects, residential projects and villas than for commercial projects in Kuwait, as the demand for these projects is higher, due to the relatively larger number of investors and foreign companies in Kuwait,” added Esbaitah.

When asked about the company’s projects in Kuwait, Esbaitha said that his company is putting the final touches on its promising project 7 Zones in the Shuwaikh area, which was 70 percent leased. In addition, the company has made significant progress on its Clover Clinic project which caters for the needs of the health sector, while Kuwait Business Town is nearing completion and is set for leasing in the next few months”.

Esbaitah went on to say that Al Mazaya still has confidence in the regional markets, especially

Eng. Khalid Esbaitah, CEO and Managing Director of Al Mazaya that of Dubai, since it is one of the biggest and strongest markets, noted for its solid infrastructure, comprehensive legislation and corporate foundation.

The recent setbacks that Dubai has experienced are temporary ones that could face any emerging market; but this effect was more apparent in the case of the Dubai market due to its size and the policies of transparency adopted by the government and companies when dealing with investors and the public.

Said Esbaitah, “Dubai does not work randomly; it follows well-placed strategies, solid infrastructure and legislation which have made the emirate a central real estate, economic and commercial hub in the region, bringing huge advantages for investors and companies working in the emirate, and the slowdown witnessed in 2009 is an aftermath of the global financial crisis and could happen even in the biggest of markets in the world”.

Speaking about the projects in Dubai, Esbaitah said that “Al Mazaya’s projects in Dubai are progressing well, according to schedule, and are between 40 and 90 percent complete, and it has already delivered the ‘Icon Towers’ project at Jumeriah Lake Towers. Al Mazaya has also made significant progress in its Business Avenue project, having completed 65 percent of the project, while completion rate for The Villa project is 85 percent, and the Al Liwan project in Dubai Land is at 30 percent. Esbaitah added that 80 percent of these projects have been sold, and 60 percent of this amount. This, in turn, helps to further push current projects to completion ahead of their scheduled delivery date”.

When asked about Al Mazaya’s new investments in GCC countries, Esbaitah said that Al Mazaya’s plans for new investments in the GCC region slowed during 2009, but that now is the right time to make new investments that are currently under research and will be announced upon completion.

Commenting on the KSA market, Esbaitah said that “Al Mazaya is currently focusing on the market in KSA, which, as reports indicate, is in need of numerous real estate companies to fulfill the demand for residen-

tial units, which is expected to drastically increase during the next 10 years, especially since the companies currently active in KSA are only able to cover 15 to 20 percent of market demand”.

“Al Mazaya has three office towers in Riyadh city and Al Ma’dhar Street, which are considered as profitable projects.

One of these projects is completely leased, while the other two have been offered for lease.

In addition, Al Mazaya owns a large residential plot in the northern region of KSA, in the Ihsaa district, stretching over an area of 1,192 million square meters. Infrastructure for the project is nearing completion and residential and commercial plots is ready to be sold. Al Mazaya expects to reap large profits upon completion,” added Esbaitah.

Esbaitah said that Al Mazaya’s financial situation is solid, as most projects are profitable ones and many are largely sold. He noted the possibility of Al Mazaya acquiring First Dubai Co., which will benefit both companies, as well as projects, investors and shareholders.

Esbaitah denied that Al Mazaya is exposed to any company or bank, explaining that “Al Mazaya’s relationship with other companies will not change, because the company is a real estate development company and is not involved in loans, so we are not exposed to any company in any market, and since Al Mazaya is a real estate development company, it has put in place careful strategies and precautions based on the market situation to protect our investors and our investments, Al Mazaya’s development plans and financial situation”.

Finally, Esbaitah talked about the outlines of Al Mazaya’s strategies for 2010, saying that Al Mazaya’s plan is built around 4 pillars: the first revolves around completing and delivering all projects currently underdevelopment, as Al Mazaya has completed 80 to 100 percent of its Kuwaiti projects, while projects in Dubai are 40 to 90 percent complete.

The second pillar is the reorganization of the company’s assets and payment of liabilities through sales operations and according to plans put in place for this end. The third pillar revolves around repossession of residential and office units previously marketed by Al Mazaya, for which the owners were not able to pay their dues as a result of the economic crisis. These properties will be a great contribution to Al Mazaya’s assets and financial situation, as Al Mazaya plans to add these assets to its profitable projects The last pillar will see Al Mazaya commence operational process on its profitable projects in Kuwait, KSA and Dubai, which will provide Al Mazaya with financial support starting 2010, which will see the completion of 5 profitable projects.

24

BUSINESS

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Plane-maker takes a calculated gamble

Now or never on A400M rescue, says Airbus CEO SEVILLE, Spain: Airbus took a calculated gamble on its industrial and political future by attempting to force reluctant buyers into a last-ditch, threeweek negotiation to rescue the A400M military plane from cost spikes and delays. The planemaker and its parent group EADS used a key annual press

conference to inject a sense of urgency into a row with nations, led by Germany, over responsibility for billions of euros of exposure that could scupper the project. EADS Chief Executive Louis Gallois said Airbus was spending 100 to 150 million euros a month to keep the project afloat.

“We just cannot continue beyond the end of January without knowing where we are going financially,” he said.

Investors agreed, sending EADS shares down upto 4 percent as the company also warned of further financial strain for some years to come from production delays on its Airbus A380 superjumbo and reported lower than expected revenues for 2009.

“The company’s forecast is not inspiring and the A400M mess is becoming a real sword of Damocles,” a Paris trader said. The powerful turbo-prop A400M was designed to transport troops and heavy equipment to remote areas such as Afghanistan.

But it has been hit by an anticipated overrun of 5 billion euros in production costs, which Airbus blames partly on political interference over industrial decisions.

EADS and European govSEVILLE: EADS Chief Executive Officer Louis Gallois (left) gestures as Airbus chief executive Tom Enders lis- ernments, facing severe prestens during a press conference at the military Airbus’ plant yesterday. —AFP sure on their economies, cannot agree how to divide up the shortfall.

Airbus Chief Executive Tom Enders said he wanted to see a “very significant contribution from governLONDON: Shoppers in Britain shrugged off online. The sector’s performance repre- horizon. ments”.

“Unemployment is still high and we have the worst recession in a generation and sents a turnaround on the 3.3 percent Officials from Britain, braved a snowy cold snap to go on their plunge in comparable sales in December still got all of the concerns around how all France, Germany, Spain, biggest pre-Christmas spending spree in 2008. “These are stronger figures than we the government debt is going to be paid off,” Belgium, Luxembourg and four years, the British Retail Consortium dared hope for,” said Stephen Robertson, he said. The BRC’s Robertson agreed that Turkey are due to meet in reported yesterday. The group said that director general of the British Retail there “is a risk that a healthy December London on Thursday.

December sales were better than retailers Consortium. “After a surprisingly muted may be only a temporary respite on the But adding to the confusion had “dared hope for,” but warned that November, this is the best total sales painful road to recovery.” There is already surrounding the programme, renewed concerns about tax rises and job growth for a December since 2005 and goes evidence that gains by supermarkets selling EADS is uncertain over losses likely meant that the spending flurry well beyond just making up for the sales fall a range of non-food products like DVDs and whether it is invited to take was a temporary respite in Britain’s difficult the sector suffered a year ago.” Recession- toys mean losses for other retailers. part, fuelling frustrations which Game Group reported a 13.8 percent weary shoppers were particularly attracted economic recovery. spilled over in public yesterday.

There is also growing evidence of a to luxury food and drink products, a trend drop in like-for-like sales for the five weeks “Today I am sending a mesto Jan. 9, while department store divergence in the sector, with sellers of sta- confirmed by Tesco in its trading update. sage of urgency to the governTesco said same-store sales in the six Debenhams posted flat like-for-like sales for ples like groceries reporting solid earnings ments: we are ready to negotias more specialist retailers struggle. Tesco weeks to Jan. 9 grew 4.9 percent, excluding the 18 weeks to Jan. 2. ate at any time and I regret Britain limped into the New Year still PLC, the country’s largest retailer and petrol and adjusted for a temporary change deeply to note that, so far, there biggest grocer, posted its strongest sales in sales tax. Leading the revenue growth officially in recession, although most econois no negotiation meeting growth in three years in December, but was its “Finest” range of products, which mists expect figures on the economy due scheduled with us,” Gallois told computer games group Game PLC reported grew 16 percent. The company also sold 35 out later this month to show modest growth reporters in the A400M produca big drop in sales and lowered its full-year percent more bottles of champagne than in in the final quarter of 2009. tion hangar.

That expectation was supported by offiprofit forecast. The BRC said that same- the corresponding period a year ago.

Negotiators say Berlin is store sales across the industry rose 4.2 per- “There is an element of people being fed up cial figures out Tuesday showing a 1.7 perholding out against a complex cent by value last month due to a last minute of continuous bad news _ they wanted to cent rise in house prices in November, compromise first hatched in enjoy Christmas,” said Tesco Finance while the trade deficit narrowed in the same seasonal rush.

Britain, which had once threatmonth from October’s six-month high as The cold weather also boosted demand Director Laurie McIlwee. ened to pull out of the A400M But McIlwee joined rival retailers in exports rose modestly and imports were for warm clothing and supported Internet over budget problems, and sales as snowed-in shoppers bought goods expressing concerns for consumers on the flat. —AP which has now gathered support among key partners such as France and Spain.

Gallois said EADS had already written off 2.4 billion euros in future losses and was prepared to take an unspecified portion of the remaining risks in return for a deal with buyers to increase the unit price and supply fewer planes initially.

“I have the feeling that we have already taken our share.”

According to figures obtained by Reuters, EADS is offering to take up to 6 billion euros in actual or potential development risk while asking buyers to absorb 5.2 billion euros in increased production costs-meeting a gap of 11 billion euros. EADS proposals would defer any new spending for a decade. Sources close to the project said they remained confident the deadlock would be resolved despite ardent sabrerattling. Although Airbus says it is ready to axe the plane without a financial deal, even that would not be straightforward and would need a new set of negotiations with buyers, executives said.

Airbus delivered a record 498 airliners last year, up from 483 in 2008, beating Boeing for the seventh year running.

KUWAIT: Mobile Telecommunications Enders said Airbus planned to Company (Zain) seeks facilitating serkeep overall 2010 deliveries at vices for its customers, in addition to “roughly” the same levels seen increasing the number of branches in the past two years. throughout the country, Zain’s CEO He voiced disappointment said. with a fall in A380 superjumbo Khalid Al-Hajeri told the press deliveries to 10 from 12 in 2008 yesterday on the occasion of opening and predicted at least 20 delivZain’s second customer service ceneries in 2010. A380 costs ter at Kuwait International airport, remain a headache for Airbus. that due to the large number of cusDespite higher Airbus plane tomers visiting the airport branch, deliveries, EADS said group Zain decided to open a second branch revenues fell 3.6 percent to within the framework of facilitating about 41.7 billion euros in 2009, customer services.

1 billion euros below market Al-Hajeri added that through the consensus forecasts.

18-branches throughout the country, Gallois blamed the weak dolcustomers are able to benefit from lar and stepped up calls for Zain’s services and products, clarifyinternational action to tame currency volatility. “I am very ing that the local branch map covers frustrated to see that at the last all residential and commercial areas.

G20 meeting nobody was talkHe added that Zain is implementing ing about currencies. It is much its expansion policy through boostmore important for me than ing its branch network and its official KUWAIT: Khalid Al-Hajeri cuts the ribbon to mark the opening of bonuses of bankers,” he told Zain’s second customer service center at Kuwait International airport. distributors. —KUNA reporters. —Reuters

Britain’s Christmas sales strong as grocers gain

Zain opens second branch at Kuwait International airport

Singapore Airlines’ A380 aircraft

Singapore Airlines continues to win accolades from around the world `SINGAPORE: Singapore Airlines again emerged on top in 2009 as favourite airline among business and leisure travellers in numerous international rankings, highlighting its continued focus on product innovation and service excellence.

The repeat awards that Singapore Airlines has been winning over the years encompass categories such as in-flight entertainment, food and beverages, ground services, safety and company management. The awards reflect the Airline’s philosophy to constantly innovate and keep pace with the changing tastes and preferences of consumers.

The Airline was recently named favourite for frequent business travellers in the annual global poll conducted by the respected Official Airline Guide organisation based in London. In the OAG Airline Industry Awards 2009, Singapore Airlines was voted “OAG Airline of the Year” for the 7th time. In addition, the Airline earned top placing in the following categories: Best Airline based in Asia, Best Europe to Asia/Australasia Airline and Best Transpacific Airline.

Conde Nast Traveler (US), a leading travel publication, named Singapore Airlines “Best Global Airline” for the 21st consecutive year in its 2009 Readers’ Choice Awards.

The carrier also secured the “Best International Airline Award” in the World’s Best Awards survey conducted by the US-based travel magazine, Travel & Leisure, for the 14th consecutive year.

Singapore Airlines earned the “Most-Admired Singapore Company” accolade in the Wall Street Journal Asia, Asia’s 200 Most-Admired Companies survey in 2009, for the 17th consecutive year.

In the 2009 Zagat Airline Survey by the US-based Zagat

organisation, Singapore Airlines was the Top-Rated International Airline for Premium and Economy Seating.

Readers of a leading regional travel magazine, Business Traveller Asia Pacific, voted Singapore Airlines the “Best Airline” for the 18th consecutive year. In addition, readers rated the Airline as the “Best Airline in the Asia Pacific” and the airline with the “Best Business Class”, “Best First Class” and “Best Economy Class”.

In the Swiss-based Bilanz Survey 2009, Singapore Airlines emerged as the winner in the following categories: Best Worldwide Business Airline (5th consecutive year), Best Airline for First Class and Business Class, Food, Service and Inflight Entertainment.

In AB Road magazine of Japan’s Airlines Top 10 Ranking 2009, Singapore Airlines won in the Best Overall Airline (2nd consecutive year), Best In-flight Service (2nd consecutive year), Best Aircraft Products and Best In-flight Meals categories.

In Fortune magazine’s The World’s Most Admired Companies 2009 survey, the carrier was ranked 33rd.

In the Business Traveller UK Reader’s Poll Awards 2009, readers rated Singapore Airlines as the Best Asian Airline. It was also voted the carrier with the “Best Cabin Staff”, “Best Economy Class”, “Best Business Class” and “Best Long Haul Airline”.

Readers of the Guardian and Observer newspapers voted the Company as the Best Long Haul Airline (for the 6th consecutive year) and with the Best Business Class.

In the Readers Choice Awards 2009 annual survey by another prestigious travel magazine, Jakarta-based DestinAsian, readers gave top marks to Singapore Airlines in the following categories: Best Overall

Airline, Best Airline for Premium Class Travel, Best Airline for Economy Class Travel and Best In-flight Entertainment for the 5th consecutive year. For the 8th consecutive year, Singapore Airlines was inducted into the Travel Hall of Fame in the TTG Travel Awards 2009. In the Skytrax World Airline Survey Awards 2009, it was named the airline with the “Best First and Business Class”. In Aviation Week’s Top Performing Companies 2009, it was ranked 1st in the Mainline Carriers category.

In the Readers Digest Trusted Brands (Singapore) survey, the Airline was awarded the “Platinum Award - Airline Category in Singapore” and the “Gold Award - Airline Category in Asia”. In the 2009 Global Reputation Pulse Survey, the Airline was ranked 10th in the “The World’s Most Reputable Companies” category.

At the Securities Investors Association of Singapore 10th Investors’ Choice Awards 2009, Singapore Airlines received the “Most Transparent Company Award 2009” for the 5th consecutive year, in the Transport/Storage/Communicati ons Category.

Singapore Airlines is grateful to its customers who have supported the Airline through the years and consistently accorded it high ratings in the various surveys. In the midst of these challenging times, the Airline has upheld its commitment to invest in product and service development. The numerous awards therefore attest to the dedication of the Airline’s staff, and serve as an encouragement to them to build upon their outstanding work.

Singapore Airlines operates four-time weekly flights on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday between Kuwait and Singapore, via Abu Dhabi.

WASHINGTON: The US Federal Reserve building is seen on July 30, 2009 in Washington, DC. The US Federal Reserve turned a record profit of $45 billion last year even as it plowed money into teetering banks to prevent a financial collapse. —AFP

Fed posts profit of $52.1bn WASHINGTON: The US Federal Reserve said yesterday it earned a record profit in 2009 of $52.1 billion, enabling a transfer to the US Treasury of $46.1 billion.

The unprecedented results came as a result of the central bankís extraordinary market operations during the financial crisis to purchase bonds and invest in troubled companies, and from earnings on loans to banks and securities firms.

The results represent a sharp rise from 2008, when the Fed earned $31.7 billion and returned $35.5 billion to the Treasury.

The profit included some $46.1 billion in earnings on securities acquired through open market operations, including US Treasury bonds, mortgage-backed securities and government agency debt.

Some $5.5 billion in net earnings came from investment in limited liability companies hit by the financial crisis. Another $2.9 billion came from loans to commercial banks and others.

The Fed also earned $2.6 billion from currency swap arrangements, which have been established with 14 central banks. —AFP

S Africa’s manufacturing contraction shrinks JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s manufacturing output shrank at a much lower rate in the year to November compared with October, signalling that the sector and the broader economy are on track for a steady recovery after last year’s recession.

The data reinforces the view that interest rates are likely to stay on hold for most of this year after the central bank reduced them by 500 basis points between December 2008 and August last year to help the struggling economy.

Data from Statistics South Africa on Tuesday showed that factory production contracted by 4.7 percent year-on-year in volume terms in November compared with a revised 9.6 percent fall in October, from 9.3 percent.

—Reuters

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

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Thousands rally in Sweden for Saab rescue STOCKHOLM: Several thousand people gathered for a demonstration in Sweden yesterday to call for iconic Swedish carmaker Saab to be rescued from its owner GM’s plan to shut it down, a union official said.

“There were at least 3,500 people at the demonstration, including Saab employees, employees from neighboring companies and town residents,” Paul Aakerlund, the head of the Saab branch of the IF Metall union, told AFP. The demonstrators chanted “Save Saab! Save Saab!” during the half-hour protest outside Saab’s headquarters in the southwestern Swedish town of

Trollhaettan, he said.

According to Swedish news agency TT, other signs and banners read “Mr Obama-Please Save Saab” and “GMGeneral Mistake.” General Motors announced on December 18 that it would wind down the brand which has barely turned a profit during two decades under GM ownership, but several groups have since made last-ditch bids for it.

They include Dutch sportscar maker Spyker, a group comprised of Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone and Luxembourg investment firm Genii Capital, and a Swedish group fronted by the former chief executive of German

truck manufacturer MAN and a former politician.

GM has said it would still consider offers for Saab even though it has begun the wind-down operations. But on Monday GM chief executive Ed Whitacre told Swedish news agency TT that none of the eleventh-hour bids were strong enough financially.

He said: “Give us $450 million and the situation would be different.”

The financial details of the bids have not been disclosed. Saab unions yesterday sent an open letter to Whitacre urging him to sell the brand instead of shutting it down. “Show us that GM is a

responsible multinational company,” read the letter, a copy of which was obtained by AFP. “Show us respect as employees within GM! Show us that you represent moral and integrity! Show us that you keep promises! SAVE SAAB-SELL SAAB!” it said. Saab, which employs 3,400 people in Sweden, is one of four storied brands being shed by GM as part of a massive restructuring effort that began in 2005 and accelerated last year when the largest US automaker went bankrupt.

Analysts have warned that some 8,000 jobs could be lost with Saab’s closure. — AFP

Try to reduce market imbalance: Gucht SWEDEN: Protestors display placards as they demonstrate outside Swedish carmaker Saab’s main plant in Trollhattan, south-western Sweden, yesterday. Hundreds of workers at Saab’s plant in Trollhattan left their work stations at noon.—AFP

Cadbury rejects Kraft, reports robust trading LONDON: Britain’s Cadbury showcased robust 2009 results and an upbeat outlook yesterday in its last move to rebuff US giant Kraft Foods’ 10.5 billion pound ($17 billion) hostile takeover bid.

Analysts said the strong trading was generally positive for Cadbury’s valuation and Kraft needed to come back with a higher offer over the next seven days of the bid timetable to succeed.

“We continue to think that Kraft will need to come up with an offer north of 8 pounds and with a significantly enhanced cash component to take over Cadbury,” said analyst Martin Deboo at brokers Investec Securities. In a final defense document, the Dairy Milk chocolate and Trident gum maker said Kraft’s “derisory” offer valued it lower than any comparable deal in the sector and that its standalone value had risen since the Kraft bid emerged last September.

“Today, the view of the Kraft offer is pretty universal, and derisory is not an unreasonable view,” Cadbury Chairman Roger Carr told a conference call.

He added the choice for shareholders is between the excellent track record of Cadbury’s management and Kraft’s management which he said had overpromised and under delivered.

Cadbury has been fighting off Kraft’s cash and share bid, currently worth 762 pence a share, since early September, with investors and analysts saying a winning bid needs to be 800p or above. Cadbury shares were unchanged at 781p by 1015 GMT. “We suspect that an increased offer in the range of 825-850p could well be sufficient to clinch the deal,” said analyst Graham Jones at brokers Panmure Gordon.

Kraft now has until Jan. 19 to change its bid while Cadbury shareholders have until Feb. 2 to decide. Cadbury says Kraft’s offer values it at a lowly 12 times 2009 core EDITDA profits put against comparable transactions at 14.3 to 18.5 times EDITDA, and the majority of the offer is in Kraft shares which have underperformed its rivals by 42 percent since Kraft’s flotation in June 2001.

Cadbury said its 2009 underlying sales rose 5 percent with the second half accelerating to 6 percent. It achieved an operating margin of 13.5 percent against a previous forecast of 13.3 percent and said its 2009 dividend would rise 10 percent.

“Our performance in 2009 was outstanding. We generated good revenue growth despite the weakest economic conditions in 80 years,” CEO Todd Stitzer said.

Stitzer and Carr in dismissing Kraft’s offer have questioned the ability of Kraft CEO Irene Rosenfeld to raise her bid after Kraft’s top shareholder Warren Buffett last week warned the company not to overpay and issue too many new Kraft shares.

They are confident of meeting Cadbury’s longer-term targets which include annual sales growth of 5 to 7 percent from 2010, lifting operating margins to 16 to 18 percent by 2013 and achieving double-digit dividend growth for 2010 and beyond. Meanwhile, some Cadbury shareholders have rejected a meeting with Kraft’s Rosenfeld, with Cadbury’s Carr saying that he was amazed it had taken Kraft so long the reach out to them.

“I do understand some are (meeting them) and some have rejected a meeting from Kraft,” Carr said. — Reuters

Charlemagne outflows continue as fees pick up LONDON: Emerging market equity specialist Charlemagne Capital said it continued to see net outflows of client money during the second half of last year, even as rallying markets boosted performance and fee income.

The group posted net redemptions of $405 million in 2009, of which $61 million came in the last six months of the year, a “slightly disappointing” performance, according to analysts at brokerage Singer.

Assets under management grew by 40 percent to reach $3.1 billion in 2009, while revenues nearly halved, hit by negative market conditions and heavy redemptions early in the year. However, the recovery in emerging markets did offer a fillip as the year continued.

Performance fees rose by 11 percent over 2009 as a whole to reach $4.1 million, the vast bulk of which were generated during the second half.

“The group believes that the longer term fundamentals for emerging markets are as strong as ever, despite the rise in asset values in 2009,” the company said in a statement yesterday.

Singer analysts kept their Buy rating following the trading statement. By 0927GMT, shares in Charlemagne were up almost 8 percent but in very low volume trade. UBS analysts noted Charlemagne’s shares have underperformed the FTSE All Share by 13 percent so far in 2010, and reiterated their Buy rating after what they called an “upbeat trading statement” which it said left the underperformance looking unjustified.

The company confirmed it remains profitable and cash flow generative, and said it intends to pay both a second ordinary and a special dividend for 2009. Charlemagne saw outflows for the year as a whole

from the large institutional investors it has targeted over the last couple of years and who have been quick to jump into emerging markets in recent months in search of returns and diversification.

Finance director David McMahon said Charlemagne is pitching for further mandates and hopes to gather inflows from institutions who missed out in 2009 but believe in a further increase in 2010.

The firm’s OCCO long-short fund saw net client redemptions of $156 million, largely in the early part of the year, which left assets under management at just $105 million by year-end.

McMahon said the fund has seen net inflows since June. Net management fees for the year more than halved to $18.8 million. In the second half they amounted to $10.4 million, 24 percent higher than those for the first half. — Reuters

EU trade chief candidate: China must let yuan rise BRUSSELS: The European Union’s trade chief candidate called yesterday for China to increase the value of its currency to reduce market imbalances and ultimately help the global economy recover. Karel De Gucht said China’s “deliberate policy” to keep the yuan at a low level against the US dollar and euro was “a major problem.” An undervalued yuan allows Americans and He said “being able to address thorny questions, such as currency” would demonstrate China’s responsibility as a global player and its openness to trade and investment. “It is important that there would be a readjustment of the value of the Chinese currency and it would help, I think, economic recovery ... (which) is important for everybody, by the way also for China,” he told reporters.

De Gucht was Tuesday quizzed by EU lawmakers who must approve his appointment as the EU’s trade commissioner, where he will negotiate treaties for European governments for the next five years.

The former Belgian foreign minister showed little eagerness to reform Europe’s trade defense rules, saying they were working well and “it should rather be a revamping than a complete change.” China complains regularly about the EU’s antidumping rules because they have often imposed charges on Chinese goods when the EU says it has evidence that companies are selling below cost, usually an indica-

European companies and customers buy Chinese goods cheaply — adding to China’s massive export flow — but makes it costly for Chinese buyers to import US or European goods. De Gucht said the EU should push China on the currency exchange rates “at all possible occasions” including at multilateral talks, such as the Group of 20 economy summits.

BRUSSELS: European Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht answers journalists’ questions during an examination with members of the European parliament at the EU headquarters in Brussels yesterday. — AFP tion that their businesses are partly subsidized by the Chinese government.

European importers and retailers also chal-

lenge trade defense charges that aim to protect European producers, saying the world has changed and they now rely on imports of

manufactured goods or parts from Asia where wage costs are far lower.

De Gucht said it was “not

timely to address that matter” and that he preferred to wait until stalled negotiations on a new World Trade Organization treaty have ended. He said he was “confident that we are going to complete the Doha round” of trade talks that started in 2001 and said the global trade body had already helped the world avoid “a wave of protectionism in the current economic crisis.” He also called for Russia to join the WTO as soon as possible, saying current trade problems would be resolved if they followed their WTO commitments. “At this moment in time, there are problems in the trade area because they have raised several tariffs unilaterally although they have promised not to do so,” he said, citing a customs union between Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan that has temporarily hiked import tariffs.

De Gucht said Europe would focus on trade talks with India, Canada, Ukraine, Latin America and the Mediterranean region over the next two years. “They mark ... a shift to economically important markets, particularly in Asia,” he said.— AP

EU regulator demands patent papers in pharma probe BRUSSELS: The European Union’s competition regulator demanded yesterday to see a “selected number” of patent deals reached by pharmaceutical companies as part of a sector-wide probe into generic medicines.

The European Commission said that “on the basis of EU antitrust rules, it addressed requests for information to certain pharmaceutical companies asking them to submit copies of their patent settlement agreements.” Brussels wants patent settlements reached between originator and generic pharmaceutical firms from July 2008 to the end of 2009, notably those where “an originator company pays off a generic competitor in return for delayed market entry of a generic drug.”

The commission, which polices competition in the EU, said its probe into the multi-billion euro sector had found that some settlements might deprive consumers of a broader choice of medicines and at lower prices.

According to commission figures, each European citizen spent an average of 430 euros

($622) on medicine in 2007.

The market for medicines was worth some 214 billion euros at retail prices.

Brussels did not identify the companies involved, saying only that “a selected number” had received requests for copies of these deals. “We need to monitor this type of agreement in order to better understand why, by whom and under which conditions they are concluded,” said outgoing Competition Commissioner Neelie Kroes.

“The monitoring will also provide us with the possibility to act should this become necessary.”

Her services said they would analyze the details and request more specific information if necessary. The regulator also threatened to repeat the process each year until the problem is addressed. The demand is part of an investigation announced in July into the relationship between companies that patent their products as brand-named medicine, as well as their ties with generic drug producers.

According to a commission

report produced in the summer, generic drugs cost on average 40 percent less two years after they enter the market and save patients and insurance firms money without compromising on effectiveness.

But some companies have in the past been accused of using patent strategies to stop generic medicines hitting the market, or tying up potential competitors in legal disputes.

Among the tactics often used, drug developers were found to file multiple patent applications for the same medicine, leaving little scope for generics to be developed.

In the worst example uncovered, 1,300 separate filings were made for a single medicine across the 27-nation EU. In another tactic, drug companies were found to often launch patent litigation against potential rivals-nearly 700 cases were found-slowing down their entry to the market.

On average, such cases would drag on for three years.

Most were lost by the company that developed the original drug. Some 200 were settled out of court. — AFP

MOSCOW: A Russian man begs for money with a pony in Moscow yesterday. Russia registered inflation of 8.8 percent in 2009 — one of its lowest levels since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, data from the official Rosstat agency showed.— AFP

Obama weighing new levy on banks

TOKYO: A man watches a share prices board in Tokyo yesterday as shares in Japan Airlines (JAL) were at a limit-down after the opening bell at the Tokyo Stock Exchange. JAL shares nose-dived with investors reportedly staring at a wipeout of their stakes as bankruptcy looms larger for Asia’s biggest carrier.— AFP

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama is weighing a levy on Washington-rescued banks to help recover shortfalls in a $700 billion bailout fund and to help balance a budget that is looking increasingly grim amid an ongoing economic crisis.

A senior administration official said Monday that Obama would seek modifications to the law that sent billions in bailout money in 2008 and 2009 to a flailing Wall Street that was approaching collapse. The government official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the president’s thinking.

The 2008 law that created the Troubled Asset Relief Program requires the president to seek a way to recoup unrecovered TARP money from financial institutions, but five years after the law was enacted. It does not specify how the money should be recovered.

An industry official said consideration of a levy

now would be premature.

“Current law doesn’t trigger this tax proposal for another four years,” said Scott Talbott, chief lobbyist for the Financial Services Roundtable, an industry group for some of the largest financial firms. “We look forward to seeing the details of the complexity of the formula, of who it’s applied to and what the assessment is based on and when it is applied,” he said. Government officials have conceded that they don’t expect to recoup billions in TARP money used to rescue insurance conglomerate American International Group Inc. and the auto industry. Banks have been repaying their infusions, in part to get out from under compensation limits imposed on the bailout recipients.

The administration is now projecting the losses to the government from the bailout program will be about $120 billion.

According to the law, the status of the TARP fund must be assessed by late 2013 — five years after it passed. “In any case where there is a shortfall,” the statute says, “the President shall submit a legislative proposal that recoups from the financial industry an amount equal to the shortfall in order to ensure that the Troubled Asset Relief Program does not add to the deficit or national debt. It is unclear how the administration would seek to recoup shortfalls due to TARP infusions into the auto industry or AIG. And any fee could potentially be imposed on banks that have already repaid their TARP infusions in full. Obama has been strident in his criticism of bankers, calling them “fat cats” last month on the eve of their visit to the White House. With public outrage over the bailout still high, Obama has embraced populist rhetoric in an effort to shame bank executives

into paying back Washington more quickly and their executives less lavishly. The senior administration official said the move would uphold Obama’s promise to recoup taxpayers’ investment in the financial industry. Funds collected from such a levy would go to pay down the $1.4 trillion deficit amid the Obamabacked stimulus package and aid to Detroit’s automakers. Earlier Monday, White House press secretary Robert Gibbs declined to discuss specifics of the plan. When asked if Obama’s upcoming budget proposal will specifically include a measure to ensure that taxpayers are paid back in full, Gibbs said: “That’s the president’s goal, yes.”

Washington spent about $245 billion to help banks in the Troubled Asset Relief Program — much less than President George W. Bush’s Treasury Department secured to keep financial firms afloat. — AP

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American Airlines, partners boost JAL support offer TOKYO: American Airlines escalated the bidding war for Japan Airlines to keep it from defecting to rival Delta’s alliance, even as the money-losing Japanese carrier moved closer to bankruptcy.

American, along with key airline partners, said yesterday they are prepared to inject $1.4 billion cash into Japan’s flagship carrier, up from the previous offer of $1.1 billion. In addition, they will guarantee $2 billion in revenue over the next three years if Japan Airlines, or JAL, stays in the oneworld family.

“This proposal demonstrates oneworld’s extraordinary commitment to JAL,” said Tom Horton, American’s chief financial officer. “It brings stability and certainty to Japan Airlines at a time when it is most needed, as it faces turbulent times over the coming weeks and months.” The announcement came as the Japanese government finalizes details of a turnaround plan for JAL, which is deeply in debt and suffering heavy losses. The plan will likely include a bankruptcy filing, cutting about a third of its work force and canceling almost $4 billion in debt, according to media reports.

Transport minister Seiji Maehara met yesterday with JAL’s major creditor banks, including the Bank of TokyoMitsubishi UFJ Ltd. and Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corp, and said they intend to cooperate with the rehabilitation plan being hammered out by a statebacked corporate turnaround body.

He said the government is committed to keeping JAL flying as it restructures.

Meanwhile, JAL said it managed to convince more than two-thirds of its retirees to agree to major cuts in pension benefits, clearing a critical roadblock in qualifying for public aid.

The day’s developments convinced investors to unload JAL shares amid fears that the plan involves removing the issue from the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama suggested yesterday that delisting may be inevitable during restructuring, saying “shareholders have a certain responsibility.” JAL shares plunged 45 percent yesterday — the maximum decline allowed — or 30 yen from Friday’s close to 37 yen.

Japan’s financial markets were closed Monday for a public holiday. In the morning, trading in JAL shares was paralyzed

due to a glut of sell orders. But JAL is still Asia’s biggest airline and its access to the region is a prized asset for other airlines. Executives from oneworld alliance members American, British Airways, Qantas Airways, and Cathay Pacific Airways told reporters at a press conference yesterday in Tokyo that their plan would help the Japanese carrier through its recovery. Rival Delta Air Lines and its SkyTeam partners have offered $1 billion, including $500 million in cash. However, a government turnaround body is set to decline all cash offers, as it fears giving foreign carriers a stake in JAL would complicate the restructuring, according to media reports.

“While JAL and the Japanese government might decide to address capital requirements internally — and we certainly would understand and respect that — our offer of capital would be available if this was deemed an appropriate resource to aid in the restructuring of JAL,” Horton said. If the government taps the American group for cash, private equity firm TPG will commit as much as $1.1 billion with the rest coming from

oneworld.

The $2 billion three-year revenue guarantee includes $1.5 billion in ongoing revenue from JAL’s participation in oneworld and $300 million if JAL and American secure trans-Pacific antitrust immunity. JAL’s partnership with British Airways will add $200 million in new revenue, according to American.

British Airways is offering to expand cooperation on flights between Japan and Europe. It will also support JAL’s efforts to establish new services between London’s Heathrow Airport and Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, which is scheduled to open a new runway and international terminal this year.

The airline will also slash about 15,600 jobs — 33 percent of its group work force — under a restructuring plan being hammered out by a state-backed corporate turnaround body, Kyodo News agency has said.

The Enterprise Turnaround Initiative Corp. of Japan, which is responsible for JAL’s restructuring, will ask banks to forgive 350 billion yen ($3.8 billion) of debt owed by the airline, the Nikkei said over the weekend. — AP

CB begins to tighten monetary policy

China surprises with early increase in bank reserve BEIJING: China yesterday raised the proportion of deposits that banks must hold in reserve, in the clearest sign yet that it has started to tighten monetary policy with its economy roaring back to the brink of overheating. The 0.5

percentage point increase in the reserve requirement ratio will take effect on January 18 and will apply to all banks apart from rural credit cooperatives, the People’s Bank of China said on its website.

BEIJING: Chinese walk past a huge billboard featuring photos of China’s development in previous years in Beijing yesterday. China’s government will likely spend the full amount of its planned stimulus in 2010, the finance minister said Sunday. — AP

Renault told to keep jobs in French unit PARIS: The French government yesterday warned carmaker Renault that shifting production to Turkey must not lead to job losses in France. Employment minister Laurent Wauquiez said there was a “red line” that Renault must not cross”which is no plant closures and no layoffs.”

Press reports that Renault plans to beef up production in Turkey of its popular Clio model prompted the right-wing governing party to call on the government to block the move.

France’s number two carmaker, Renault currently divides production of

the Clio between its plant in Flins, in the western Paris suburbs, and Bursa in Turkey. “Renault is not just any ordinary company-the state holds 15 percent and we are not going to be spectactors because this is a company that has received a lot of assistance during the crisis,” Wauquiez told RTL radio.

A company that “sells to French consumers must, as much as possible, produce in France,” the minister said. A Renault spokesman last week did not confirm the report, but said the new Clio 4 would continue to be produced in France and Turkey. The spokesman for President

Nicolas Sarkozy’s UMP party, Frederic Lefebvre, had said a complete shift to Turkey would be “unacceptable” and called for the state to intervene to block any such move.

Over the past decades, France, which prides itself as an industrial powerhouse, has seen many of its plants move to Asia and elsewhere where production costs, in particular labour and taxes, are much lower. Wauquiez noted that France had recently scrapped the professional tax that businesses pay to local governments, so that the country can keep its industry strong. — AFP

It was the first time that the central bank adjusted the ratio since it lowered the ratio in December 2008 as part of its loosening cycle at the time. Many in the market had thought that China might increase RRR before it lifted interest rates, but the move came far earlier than expected amid concerns that a renewed surge in bank lending was flooding the economy with too much cash.

Shi Lei, an analyst at Bank of China in Beijing, said there could two or three more RRR increases before June. “The reserve ratio hike is a strong signal the central bank is stepping up efforts to absorb excessive liquidity,” Shi said. “The hike may drain about 200-300 billion yuan from the market but it really needs to drain about 700-800 billion yuan.”

The RRR increase also followed two other tightening steps taken by the central bank yesterday. The central bank raised the yield on its 20 billion yuan ($2.9 billion) in one-year bills by about 8 basis points (bps) to 1.8434 percent after holding it steady in the previous 20 auctions, compared with a median forecast among traders that it would go up by just 4 bps. It also drained a record 200 billion yuan via 28-day bond repurchase agreements, ensuring it will draw net funds from the market this week.

“This is exactly what happens with Chinese policy. They say fine tuning. It never happens that way.

It’s always nothing or boom,” Ken Peng, an analyst with Citigroup in Beijing said.

“When they reach a consensus, it happens very quickly,” he added.

The tightening steps come after reports that bank lending surged in the first week of the year to 600 billion yuan, adding to concerns fuelled by blockbuster trade data for December that the world’s third-largest economy is overheating. — Reuters

TOKYO: Japanese Transport Minister Seiji Maehara gestures as he speaks before the media at his office in Tokyo yesterday. Maehara said the government would make all-out efforts to achieve the rehabilitation of struggling Japan Airlines (JAL). — AFP

RBS recovery ‘well ahead’ of plan: CEO Bank sees govt share sales spread over 3-4 years LONDON: Royal Bank of Scotland’s recovery is well ahead of plan, its chief executive said yesterday, adding the part-nationalized bank could see political risks increasing ahead of a British election this year.

“We are well ahead of where I thought we would be. We did not slip on as many banana skins as I thought we might,” Stephen Hester told a parliamentary hearing on Britain’s rescued banks.

“That gives me encouragement to believe we can hit all the ambitious targets we put out for the recovery of RBS.” RBS is two thirds of the way to cutting the size of its balance sheet in line with its plan and had approximately halved the size of its investment bank, the heart of most of its problems during the crisis, Hester said. “The core businesses of RBS are really good businesses... and they will provide the wherewithal to pay back the taxpayers.” Hester, quizzed by parliament’s Treasury Select Committee on as part of a series of hearings on Britain’s bailed-out lenders, said the recovery should help the government meet its target of selling down its 84 percent stake.

“I would be hopeful that there will be a number of opportunities for share sales to be made at a profit over the next three to four years,” he said. RBS, whose losses put it at the centre of the financial crisis, has also been at the heart of the debate on banker bonuses and the government’s role in changing behavior. News last month of strings attached to the bank’s bonus pool by the government, as part of conditions linked to an insurance scheme for bad debts, prompted Hester to criticise a growing “politicization” of the bank and sparked rumours the board had threatened to walk out over the issue.

Hester reiterated yesterday that the board had not threatened to step down, but had been advised that some aspects of its operational freedom had been signed away as part of the insurance deal and could, if mismanaged, restrict the board’s ability to carry out its duties.

Hester declined to comment, however, on the size and form of the bank’s bonus pool, on which the remuneration committee would make a decision by the end of next month, but he said the bank was a “part-prisoner” to market rates. — Reuters

Debenhams to focus on margins in uncertain 2010 LONDON: British department store group Debenhams forecast a further rise in profit margin in 2010 despite the tough economic outlook as it posted a small rise in sales and a profit increase in the run-up to Christmas.

“Looking forward, with the rise in VAT (sales tax) and a general election pending, the consumer environment remains uncertain,” chief executive Rob Templeman told reporters yesterday, echoing recent comments from a raft of other retailers. “Against the backdrop of a tough economic outlook we believe that focusing on self-help levers such as margin expansion alongside sales is imperative,” he said.

The firm, which trades from over 150 stores in Britain and Ireland and more than 50 franchised outlets overseas, is moving space away from low margin concessions into higher margin own bought merchandise. The strategy is driven by the expansion of its exclusive “Designers at Debenhams” ranges by fashion setters such as Matthew

Williamson and Julien Macdonald. Two new ranges Principles by Ben de Lisi and H! by Henry Holland will be launched next month.

Debenhams said sales at stores open at least a year increased 0.1 percent in the 18 weeks to Jan. 2 year-on-year.

That compares with analyst expectations ranging from a fall of 2 percent to a rise of 1 percent.

The firm estimated the switch to own bought from concession sales had impacted like-for-like sales growth by 1.5 percent. But even allowing for this analysts said the performance was one of the less upbeat seen to date and some way behind rivals John Lewis and House of Fraser.

“We continue to have reservations about the move to a more extreme high-low pricing model in a more difficult trading environment,” said analysts at Credit Suisse.

Shares in Debenhams have more than doubled over the last year, helped by a 323 million pounds ($520.2 million) fundraising in June which ended worries about its debts.

These had dogged the firm since its stock market return at 195 pence a share in 2006.

The stock was down 4.2 percent at 74.7 pence at 1016 GMT valuing the business at about 942 million pounds.

Debenhams’ gross transaction value was 1.6 percent higher, with gross margin ahead of the year to end-Aug. 2010 guid-

ance of up 50-60 basis points, which remained unchanged.

The retailer said it had repaid a further 75 million pounds of gross debt and bought back a further 17 million pounds of debt in the market since October.

Debenhams raised its fullyear capital expenditure guidance to 115 million pounds. It

will accelerate its store refit program with schemes planned for stores in Manchester, Glasgow and Bristol. Templeman said the firm will also look for more “accretive bolt-on acquisitions” following November’s purchase of Danish department store chain Magasin du Nord. — Reuters

CARACAS: A customer leaves as soldiers get into a supermarket, accused of raising prices in Caracas. Venezuela’s President Hugo Chavez threatened on Sunday to seize businesses that raise prices as a result of last week’s devaluation of Venezuela’s currency. — AP

Venezuela military shutters 70 stores amid devaluation panic

BUENOS AIRES: Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner shaking hands with the president of the Rural Confederations of Argentina, Mario Llambias, after announcing credit facilities for wheat growers at the National Bank in Buenos Aires Monday. — AFP

CARACAS: The Venezuelan military shuttered 70 firms, including a European-backed supermarket, apparently fulfilling a pledge to close businesses that raise prices after a massive currency devaluation.

The government of leftist President Hugo Chavez asked the National Guard to close the stores for alleged “irregularities”, state-run news agency

ABN said. A Caracas branch of French-backed supermarket Exito was earlier closed for 24 hours for alleged price-gouging.

The news came as Venezuelans rushed to empty supermarket shelves of televisions, refrigerators and other appliances in anticipation that prices would soar for imported items. On Friday Chavez announced the bolivar would

trade at 4.30 to the dollar for “non-essential” goods-double the present rate-and a rate of 2.60 bolivars against the dollar for basic goods.

The firebrand leader warned Sunday that any price speculation by shopkeepers would trigger business seizures, and called on the National Guard to help people fight price hikes. —AFP

TECHNOLOGY

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

27

Blindness groups, US university settle suit over Amazon’s e-reader device NEW YORK: Two organizations representing the blind have settled a discrimination lawsuit against Arizona State University over its use of Amazon’s Kindle e-reader device. Arizona State is among several universities testing the $489 Kindle DX, a large-screen model aimed at textbook and news-

paper readers.

Last June, the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind joined a blind ASU student in suing Arizona State, alleging that the Kindle’s inaccessibility to blind students constituted a violation of federal law.

The blindness organizations and ASU announced the settlement on Monday. It does not involve payment of any damages or attorney’s fees. Rather, the groups cited ASU’s commitment to providing access to all of its programs for students with disabilities, and noted that the pilot program was already

ending this spring. The university, which denies the pilot program violates any law, agreed that if it does decide to use e-book readers in future classes over the next two years, “it will strive to use devices that are accessible to the blind,” according to their joint statement.

Although the Kindle has a read-

aloud feature that could help the blind and the visually impaired, turning it on requires navigating through screens of text menus. The federation has said the device should be able to speak the menu choices.

The blindness groups noted that another impetus for the settlement

was the fact that Amazon.com Inc. and other companies were already working to improve the accessibility of e-book readers to blind and vision-impaired people.

In December, Amazon said it will add two features to make the Kindle more accessible. The company is working on audible menus, which

would let the Kindle speak menu options out loud, and it is creating an extra-large font for people with impaired vision. Both should reach the Kindle next summer, Amazon said last month. Amazon was not named in the lawsuit and did not immediately return an e-mail message Monday for comment. —AP

Apple eyeing burgeoning electronic book market

Apple may wipe slate clean for new tablet computer SEATTLE: Apple has a knack for spotting problems we didn’t know we had.

It can leave us wondering how we survived without vast libraries of music and TV shows in our pockets or the comfort of knowing “there’s an app for that.” Now, speculation is growing that in two weeks Apple will unveil a tablet-style touch-screen computer that is bigger than an iPhone but smaller than a standard laptop. If indeed that is Apple’s next move — the com-

NEW YORK: A man displays at Dell Tablet PC during the National Retail Federation (NRF) annual convention and expo at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City. The NRF’s 99th annual convention is being held this week in New York, amidst a climate of economic uncertainty but guarded hope among retailers around the country. —AFP

France accepts Google role in book scanning PARIS: France agreed yesterday to work with Google to digitally scan French library books but insisted it would not surrender legal control of its cultural heritage to the US Internet giant.

Culture Minister Frederic Mitterrand said he would approach Google to discuss their involvement while also pressing on with France’s own digitisation efforts.

He approved an experts’ report published yesterday which proposed a “partnership” with Google and its online library Google Books.

“We are going to propose to Google... an exchange of documents, without exclusivity, in a transparent way and with respect for the authors,” the minister was quoted as saying by Le Monde newspaper.

France has been searching in recent months for ways to bring its vast cultural holdings into the digital age, including through scanning books and museum objects so they can be viewed online.

Last month President Nicolas Sarkozy announced a 750-million-euro (1.08-billion-dollar) package of state funding for digitisation of “the content of our museums, our libraries and our cinematographic heritage” via a public-private partnership.

Google, the world leader in Internet searches, is an obvious candidate with the expertise for a mass digitisation project, having already scanned vast numbers of works for its online library Google Books.

Last month it began scanning antique books from the major public collection in the southeastern French city of Lyon under a contract with the

municipal library that controversially gives Google the rights to the works for 25 years.

But suspicion of the huge California-based company runs deep and discussions between Google and France’s National Library over a similar project raised concerns that French heritage could fall into private hands.

A Paris court ruled separately last month that Google had breached French publishers’ copyright by scanning books for its online library.

Mitterrand said meanwhile France should push on with its own book-scanning project, an online catalogue of National Library documents called Gallica, but acknowledged criticisms of it in the report.

“I’m not sure we should keep that name,” he told Le Monde. “It’s a bit nationalistic and archaic.”

The report commissioned by Mitterrand acknowledged Google’s status as a leading player in digitisation but urged caution in negotiating the contracts with it to keep commercial control and digital distribution rights.

“No public policy can ignore the advances made by this private operator, at a world and a European level,” it said, but added that France must “keep control of the digitisation process and above all the distribution of the digital content”.

Mitterrand said he would visit Google bosses at their US headquarters in March.

“I will say to them again, when I visit them in California, that respect for authors’ rights must be a strict condition of any strong and viable partnership,” he said. —AFP

UK vicar invokes God’s blessing on BlackBerrys LONDON: God bless this BlackBerry. A venerable British church has done what e-mail addicts and workaholics have been doing for years — invoking the Almighty’s blessing on their high-tech gadgets.

The Rev. Canon David Parrott blessed a symbolic heap of laptops and smart phones on the altar of London’s 17th-century St. Lawrence Jewry church Monday. An effort, he said, to remind the capital’s busy office workers that God’s grace can reach them in many ways.

“It’s the technology that is our daily working tool, and it’s a technology we should bless,” Parrott said. The short blessing

capped Monday’s services at the Christopher Wren-designed building — the official church of the Corporation of the City of London, which runs the capital’s bustling financial district.

Parishioners took out cell phones as Parrott recited a blessing over them and their electronic devices. A few held their phones up in the air as he ran through the prayer.

Parrott said the blessing ceremony was an update of a traditional back-to-work ceremony called “Plow Monday,” in which villagers gathered to bless a symbolic farming implement dragged to the church’s door.

Parrott said that ceremony didn’t

have much relevance for his church, which was “nowhere near a field in the middle of London.” Parrott took up his post at St. Lawrence Jewry (socalled because it stands in what was once the capital’s Jewish neighborhood) about seven months ago and said the updated ceremony was “a fresh idea for a fresh post.”

He said he hoped the ceremony had made worship “lively and relevant to the people who work nearby, in the financial district.”

Parrot said parishioners were welcome to leave their phones on during the service — so long as they kept them on silent. —AP

NEW YORK: Visitors at the Microsoft stand to have a preview of the soon-to-be released Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail solution during the 2010 National Retail Federation Big Show in New York yesterday. —AFP

Such devices have been around since the early 1990s, including one from Toshiba Corp. that weighed 3.3 pounds (1.5 kilograms) and cost about $3,500. But tablets haven’t seen much success in the mainstream. At the peak in 2007, manufacturers shipped about 1.5 million tablets worldwide — less than 1 percent of the personal computers shipped that year, according to the research firm IDC. Only about one-third of those tablets were for consumers. The rest were used in specialized settings such as doctor’s offices or warehouses.

Bill Gates, co-founder of Apple nemesis Microsoft Corp., predicted repeatedly during the 2000s that tablets were about to take off.

He was wrong because those tablets required people to use a pen-shaped stylus to tap buttons or write on the screen, which was attractive in workplaces where employees needed to check boxes or fill out forms. For most people, though, using a stylus for regular computer tasks such as editing a spreadsheet was more cumbersome than using a mouse and keyboard. No one has given up on tablet computers running Windows; several cropped up last week at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, including prototypes from Hewlett-Packard Co. and Dell Inc. But it seems it will be Apple CEO Steve Jobs who swoops in with a tablet that takes advantage of recent technology improvements and garners the most buzz.

Dell and HP didn’t present a retail-ready tablet because the companies want to be able to adjust if Apple’s vision turns out to be radically different, says computer industry analyst Roger Kay of Endpoint Technologies Associates. “If Apple blows it out of the park, we know that that’s what the space is going to look like for a while,” he says.

While older tablets weren’t pitched as Internet-surfing devices, modern ones will be able to take advantage of near-ubiquitous wireless Internet access, as well as our growing willingness to pay for monthly data plans for smart phones and little netbooks.

Touch screens and the underlying software are also dramatically better today, and we’ve gotten used to pinching, swiping and using on-screen keyboards thanks to the popularity of Apple’s iPhone.

And gadgets — especially ones made by Apple — are thin-

pany won’t comment — it would have to show us why we ought to pay for yet another Internet-connected screen, on top of the TVs, computers and smart phones we already have. Tablets, also called slates, are one-piece computers with big screens and no keyboards, though some models can convert from a regular laptop to a tablet by flipping the screen around to hide a keyboard.

LAS VEGAS: In this Jan. 6, 2010 file photo, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer delivers his keynote address at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show where he showcased the new touch-enabled slate from HP. Ballmer showed off the new touch-screen, tablet-style computer from Hewlett-Packard Co., the first of several such devices expected to be unveiled this month. Speculation is growing that in two weeks Apple will unveil a tablet-style touchscreen computer that is bigger than an iPhone but smaller than a standard laptop. —AP ner and sleeker all the time, making them more portable than clunky early tablets.

We’ve seen this happen before: Portable music players and “smart” phones had existed before the iPod and the iPhone came along, and yet it was Apple that redefined those categories.

Still, an Apple tablet could have a harder time becoming a mainstream success than those gadgets, if only because there is not necessarily a compelling reason for one. In the absence of confirmation from Apple, analysts have many guesses about how Jobs would position an Apple tablet. Some think it will simply be an oversized iPod Touch, a music player that is also used to view movies, family photos and other content on the go.

Others believe Apple is building the tablet with an eye to the burgeoning electronic book market (even though Jobs said in 2008 that “people don’t read anymore.”) Still others position it as a companion screen to use while watching television — the tablet would deliver information related to the program airing on the TV.

But the mechanics of the human body may be stronger than Jobs’ charisma. We tolerate devices like smart phones with their tiny screens and awkward keyboards because they’re fine for what we need them for — quick, on-the-go reading and messaging. As soon as the screen gets bigger, though, people tend to start wanting to do more with the device, such as typing longer missives, says Mark Rolston, chief creative officer for Frog Design, a firm that designed one of Apple’s first computers. At that point, the limitations of small screens and the lack of a real keyboard could be intolerable, and people would move up a rung to a small laptop.

Jon Gibs, vice president for media insight at The Nielsen Co., says he can’t think of a situation in which a tablet screen would be the best one available for watching video. At home, the TV is the more natural choice, while on the go, a pocket-sized iPhone would be more convenient. Rolston believes Apple won’t market a tablet as a replacement for a workhorse laptop. Instead, Jobs will describe a limited set of uses

for the device at first, Rolston says, and later Apple may broaden how it advertises the tablet. He pointed to the way the iPhone evolved from easy-to-use phone to multipurpose pocket computer a year after its debut with the advent of the App Store, which sells add-on software of all sorts.

Perhaps some of the biggest hopes for tablets are bubbling in media companies that have failed to capture enough advertising on the Internet and now crave a new way to sell interactive content.

Something like Apple’s iTunes program, which lets people buy songs, TV shows and movies to put on their iPods and iPhones, could be used to distribute newspaper and magazine stories or TV programming on a tablet.

Already publishers are flocking to e-book readers such as Amazon.com Inc.’s Kindle, but photo and graphics-rich magazines and video or multimedia installments from newspapers don’t look very good on the ereaders’ black, white and gray “eink” screens.

A tablet with a color screen, however, could create new opportunities. Sports Illustrated pub-

lished a video online of a tabletbased digital magazine that lets readers glide through content, jump from a single photo to an entire gallery, view features and ads with embedded video segments, and play games on the tablet that tie into sporting events on TV. Wired magazine is working on a made-for-tablet edition. While the business model isn’t final, Wired will likely charge a subscription fee for some or all of the tablet version, says editor-in-chief Chris Anderson. Smart phone screens are too small for longform reading and high design, while PC screens require people to lean in across the keyboard to read. A tablet would have both the intimacy and the screen real estate to approximate a magazine experience, Anderson says. “We decided this was the big one,” Anderson says. Apple’s stock more than doubled in the last year, partly because of investors’ expectations that the company has another blockbuster coming.

But tablets would still have to get into consumers’ hands, which makes the price perhaps the most important question. —AP

Hackers paralyze China’s largest search engine BEIJING: China’s largest search engine, Baidu.com, said that it was temporarily shut down after a cyberattack yesterday.

Hackers briefly blocked access to China’s top search engine by steering traffic to another Web site where a group reportedly calling itself the “Iranian Cyber Army” claimed responsibility.

“Services on Baidu’s main website www.baidu.com were interrupted due to external manipulation of its DNS (domain name server) in the US Baidu has been resolving this issue and the majority of services have been restored,” Baidu spokesman Victor Tseng said in a statement.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu said at a regular news briefing yesterday that China “opposes all cyber crimes, including hacking.” There was no evidence the hackers are actually linked to Iran. Baidu, pronounced “by-doo,” holds a market value of about $13 billion and dominates China’s Internet search like Google dominates the market in just about every other major country in the world. —AP

NEW YORK: A visitor interacts with an Intel Corporation touch-sensitive panel prototype, aimed at changing the way people interact with digital signage technology in environments such as stores, airports, banks and hotels during the 2010 National Retail Federation Big Show in New York yesterday. —AFP

HEALTH & SCIENCE

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Economic, health worries make 35 the new 40: Report NEW YORK: Worries about the economy and healthcare are pushing people into middle age earlier, making 35 the new 40, according to a new report.

Research by the Philips Center for Health and Well-Being showed that 40 was previously widely considered as the milestone that defined middle age but this has been lowered to 35.

“Thirty five is the new 40 as Americans feel the pressures of middle age earlier than ever,” the Amsterdam-based center said in a statement.

Katy Hartley, the director of the center which

aims to improve quality of life, said stress about the economy and healthcare that you would typically associate with turning 40 is starting at a younger age.

“The data suggests the new age for middle age is 35,” she said in an interview.

Nearly 80 percent of 35 year olds questioned for the Philips Index said they were concerned about the economy, and three-quarters were also worried about healthcare. These stresses, according to the study, have contributed to the feeling of early onset of middle age or the loss of five years of youth.

The report showed the economy topped the list of stressors for most Americans at 74 percent which was nearly double from a 2004 survey. A nearly equal amount said they feel positive about their overall health and well-being.

But many Americans may not be realistic about their health. Only 39 percent of Americans consider themselves to be overweight, according to the index while a report by the National Center for Health Statistics showed 67 percent of Americans are overweight or obese. Americans seem to accept being

overweight as normal.

“I think the data would support that,” said Hartley.

Although most Americans said they are in good health, only 51 percent think they are as fit as they could be and 66 percent wished they exercised more.

When they do get sick, more than half of the 1,503 Americans who were questioned for the index said a doctor would be their first choice for getting information, followed by the Internet.

“The role of doctors remains important. Fiftythree percent of people still see their doctor as the

first source of information and the second source of information is the Internet,” said Hartley.

But most people seek the company of family and friends to improve their health and well being, while job and salary were far less important.

“Initially it looks fine. We all feel great about our health and well being. I think when you dig a level deeper that Americans are struggling to balance spending time with their family, with their jobs, with the economy and with stress levels,” said Hartley. — Reuters

WHO ready to review handling of flu pandemic ‘Evaluation is necessary and we are open to recommendations’

GUIANA: A woman holds her child who receives the vaccine against H1N1 (swine flu) by a mobile medical team, at Camopi Amerindian village in the French South American territory of Guiana. The staff, including a physician, nurses and security members, vaccine those who wish. — AFP

Spain leads world in organ donations MADRID: Spain led the world in organ donations in 2009 for the 18th consecutive year despite a sharp drop in road death fatalities, a key source of donated organs, Health Minister Trinidad Jimenez, said Monday.

A total of 4,028 organ transplants were carried out last year in Spain from 1,605 donors, a new record for the country, she told a news conference. The number of deceased donors per million people-a commonly used benchmark-stood at 34.3 in 2009, almost double the 18.1 recorded in the entire European Union.

In the United States, which pioneered organ transplant surgery, it stood at 26.3.

“These results have enormous merit. Our numbers allow us to lead the world for 18 consecutive years,” Jimenez told a news conference.

Spain has become a world leader in organ donation since it set up a network of transplant coordinators in 1989 at all hospitals in the country which closely monitor emergency wards to identify potential donors. When they learn of a death, they tactfully talk to the grieving families to get permission to harvest organs and help save the lives of others.

The coordinators, whose work was depicted in the Oscar-winning movie “All About My

Mother” by Spanish director Pedro Almodovar, may spend hours listening to the relatives and asking them to consider organ donation in a private room away from the hospital wards.

Only about 15 percent of families approached in Spain refused consent for organ donation, a huge drop from the 40 percent who refused in the 1980s before the system was set up.

At a handful of hospitals the refusal rate is nearly zero percent. A single decision to donate can help four patients who need a kidney, lung, liver or heart. Spain is working in the European Union to help introduce a similar system across the bloc.

“We want to extend to all 27 nations of the European Union the same conditions of quality and security which Spanish citizens enjoy and at the same time the same levels of organ donation,” said Jimenez. Spain’s health ministry estimates that if the organ donation rate across the EU were at the same level which it is in Spain, the number of donors in the bloc could double to 18,000 from just under 9,000 in 2008. This could save or improve the lives of at least 20,000 more people each year, the ministry said. — AFP

GENEVA: The World Health Organisation said yesterday that it was ready to hold an independent review of its response to swine flu, amid growing criticism of official handling of the pandemic.

However, WHO officials said such a review might not be set up until the pandemic is regarded as over, a period which could take months or even years.

“We expect and indeed welcome criticism and a chance to discuss it,” WHO spokeswoman Fadela Chaib told journalists.

“In the future we will also do an evaluation of our work with outside experts, in order to assess the work of WHO in the management of the pandemic influenza H1N1,” she added.

“Evaluation is necessary and we are open to recommendations that can improve our work, when this is over WHO will undoubtedly work with outside experts.”

The UN health agency was still working out the details of such a process.

Council of Europe parliamentarian Wolfgang Wodarg last week said he and several colleagues had called for a commission of inquiry into a “false pandemic” and the way it was handled at national and European levels, claiming pressure from pharmaceutical firms.

Some European countries have been trying to sell off stocks of unused vaccine in recent weeks, after many had geared up to deliver two doses instead of what eventually turned out to be the required single dose.

Chaib denied that the WHO was in conflict with its member states.

WHO flu spokeswoman Nyka Alexander said it could take “several seasons” to determine that a pandemic was over.

“We can’t say a pandemic is over until we have seen that it hasn’t come back,” she explained.

The WHO is also due to open its annual executive board meeting next Monday to a question and answer session from the 34 member states in the body on its management of the A(H1N1) pandemic.

The WHO declared a global pandemic last June, weeks after putting the world on an emergency footing over the sudden discovery and swift spread of the then unknown new swine flu virus in April 2009 in Mexico and the United States.

It now reaches into more than 200 countries having left at least 12,799 people dead, according to the agency’s data. — AFP

PORTLAND: In this Thursday, June 24, 2004 picture, cancer patient Christopher Campbell uses an eye dropper for hashish hemp oil in Portland, Ore. — AP

Watching hours of TV daily could shorten your life SYDNEY: Couch potatoes, beware. Sitting in front of the television for hours daily could shorten your life, according to an Australian study.

Researchers from the Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute in the state of Victoria tracked the lifestyle habits of 8,800 adults and found that each hour spent in front of the TV daily increased the risk of dying earlier from cardiovascular disease.

The study, published in “Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association,” found every hour in front of the TV was associated with an 11 percent increased risk of death from all causes, a 9 percent higher risk of cancer death, and an 18 percent increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) related death.

“Compared with people who watched less than two hours of television daily, those who watched more than four hours a day had a 46 percent higher risk of death from all causes and an 80 percent increased risk for CVDrelated death,” the researchers said in a statement.

The researchers said this association held regardless of other independent and common cardiovascular disease risk factors, including smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, unhealthy diet, excessive waist circumference, and leisure-time exercises.

Researcher David Dunstan said the study focused specifically on television watching but the findings suggest that any prolonged sedentary behavior, such as sitting at a desk or in front of a computer, may pose a health

Gene linked to prostate cancer WASHINGTON: In a first, scientists have identified a genetic variant linked to aggressive prostate cancer that could improve diagnosis and treatments for the disease, researchers said Monday.

“This finding addresses one of the most important clinical questions of prostate cancer-the ability at an early stage to distinguish between aggressive and slow-growing disease,” said the study’s lead author Jianfeng Xu, cancer expert at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina.

“Although the genetic marker currently has limited clinical utility, we believe it has the potential to one day be used in combination with other clinical variables and genetic markers to predict which men have aggressive prostate cancer at a stage when the disease is still curable.”

Prostate cancer accounts for 25 percent of all cancer diagnoses in the United States. Aggressive prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in the country, killing 27,000 men annually.

The researchers identified a genetic variant “rs4054823” associated with a 25 percent higher risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.

“A single variant with a moderate effect such as this is

unlikely to be sufficient on its own at predicting risk,” said Xu. “But its identification is significant because it indicates that variants predisposing men to aggressive disease exist in the genome.”

As more genetic variants linked to aggressive prostate cancer are identified, he added, men could likely be tested to determine their risk for the aggressive form of the disease earlier in their lives so they can undergo increased screening.

“Identifying factors that are associated with a risk of having or developing aggressive disease is urgently needed to reduce over-diagnosis and over-treatment of this common cancer,” said study co-author Karim Kader, a Wake Forest urologist.

The study will be published online next week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Researchers analyzed genetic information from 4,849 men with aggressive prostate cancer and 12,205 with the slow-growing disease to determine whether men with aggressive disease shared genetic variants.

The analysis included participants in the Genetic Markers of Susceptibility study performed by the National Cancer Institute, as well as additional study populations in the United States and Sweden. — AFP

risk.

“The human body was designed to move, not sit for extended periods of time,” said Dunstan, head of the institute’s physical activity laboratory in the division of metabolism and obesity.

“Technological, social, and economic changes mean that people don’t move their muscles as much as they used to - consequently the levels of energy expenditure as people go about their lives continue to shrink.

“For many people, on a daily basis they simply shift from one chair to another-from the chair in the car to the chair in the office to the chair in front of the television.”

Dunstan said the findings applied not only to individuals who were overweight and obese, but also those of a healthy weight.

“Even if someone has a healthy body weight, sitting for long periods of time still has an unhealthy influence on their blood sugar and blood fats,” he said.

“In addition to doing regular exercise, avoid sitting for prolonged periods and keep in mind to ‘move more, more often’. Too much sitting is bad for health.”

The researchers interviewed 3,846 men and 4,954 women aged 25 and older who underwent oral glucose-tolerance tests and provided blood samples so researchers could measure biomarkers such as cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

Participants were enrolled from 1999 and followed through 2006 and reported their televisionviewing habits. — Reuters

Free diabetes check up at GMC hospital, Ajman

BERLIN: A mother and her 5-months-old daughter sit in the Spielzimmer (Playroom) Cafe in Berlin’s Prenzlauer Berg district on January 6, 2009. Cafes catering to parents and their young offspring have become a common sight in this district of the former east Berlin which boasts one of Germany’s highest birth rates. — AFP

AJMAN: Free Diabetes check up and consultation camp is going to be conducted by GMC Hospital & Research centre on Friday 22nd January 2010.

As diabetes continues to grow as a national health crisis and as the number of people diagnosed with the disease is expected to increase dramatically, the main aim of the Hospital is to help in dealing the adverse implications caused by Diabetes and to assist the alarming growth of people of all ages diagnosed with diabetes.

The Hospital hopes that this camp will significantly prevent diabetes and improve the lives of all people affected. The camp may include blood sugar monitoring, BP Check up and Diet Counseling.

WHATʼS ON IN KUWAIT

30

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

World Hindi Day celebrated in Kuwait

Embassy information EMBASSY OF GREECE The Embassy of Greece has the pleasure to announce that with a view to promote business interaction and commercial relations between Greece and Kuwait and to present further support for the Kuwaiti importers, it requests all Kuwaiti Companies dealing with or representing Greek Companies in Kuwait to contact this Embassy as soon as possible and to provide by fax or e-mail the following information: (Name of the company, tel no, fax no, e-mail, type of business, name of the Greek companies/clients). The Embassy’s contacts are as follows: email: gremb.kuw@mfa.gr; fax: 24817103, and tel no: 24817100, 24817101, 24817102.

EMBASSY OF INDIA

indi is the third most widely-spoken language in the world and “World Hindi Day” is celebrated annually across the world on January 10. As part of the efforts to promote the use of Hindi, a function was organized on “World Hindi Day” at the Embassy of India in Kuwait.

Father Lionel Braganza, Principal of the Indian English Academy School, helped

H

coordinate the event amongst the Indian schools in Kuwait. After inaugurating the event by lighting the traditional lamp the Ambassador of India Mr. Ajai Malhotra read out the message of the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, issued on the occasion of “World Hindi Day”. This was followed by a debate on the topic “Use of Hindi in Today’s

World” in which students from eleven Indian schools in Kuwait participated.

The winners of the debate were Chinmayi Singhal of Fahaheel AlWatanieh Indian Private School School (First), Vedula Soundrya Lehri of Indian Educational School (Second), Prabhjot Kaur of India International School (Third) and Raghavi Vishwanath of Fahaheel Al-

Watanieh Indian Private School School (Consolation). The four winners were awarded prizes by Ambassador Ajai Malhotra. The occasion also witnessed a recitation of their own poetic compositions in Hindi by Mrs. Maimuna Ali Chougle, President of the Writer’s Forum, Mrs. Rani Gobind Sethi, Dr Mrs. Navneet Gandhi, Amer Diwan, and

Umesh Sharma, as well as B.S. Bisht and V.K. Sharma of the Indian Embassy.

The proceedings were ably conducted

by Mrs Anju Dheman, Principal of Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School, and were followed by refreshments for the approximately 120 participants. Some photos of the January 10 event follow.

Learning is fun at JIS

he environs in the classrooms of Jabriya Indian School was filled with excitement & exuberance, when the teachers presented their ‘PowerPoint presentations in the classrooms. The curiosity and zeal with which the students participated in the ‘oth-

T

erwise normal routine classes’ was worth appreciating.

Their joy knew no bounds as they saw their lessons unfolding in colour and depth. The PowerPoint presentations not only made the lessons

easier or the students but also made them interesting and motivating. It provided the students with a wider horizon to perform much better in the respective subjects with deeper understanding.

Teachers of the Primary and Intermediate sec-

tions presented some very interesting presentations in Hindi, English, Maths, Science, EVS, and Biology etc. The students’ wholehearted participation and involvement spoke volumes for their re-kindled interest in these subjects.

Announcements Today Convention: Rev Dr M A Varghese, Senior Pastor of Bethel AG Church, Bangalore, is scheduled to preach at the convention organized by New India Church of God today at NECK Church & Parish Hall and at EBA Hall, Abbassiya tomorrow, 7:30-9:30 pm. For details, contact Jose Kurian, 66522623. The meeting at EBA Hall will be continued for more days.

nthusiastic young players are developing an impressive array of skills and tricks at the Red Bull Freestyle workshops organised by the Premier Football Academy in association with Everton F.C. These sessions take place at the indoor Goal venue, Discovery Mall, Soor Street every Sunday from 5-6pm. Football Freestyle improves fitness, balance, co ordination, control and techniques as players perform routines in time to

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music. There are also games and competitions to enjoy each week. All ability levels are welcome to attend so come along and master the art of freestyle football and amaze your family and friends. All participants will receive an Umbro football, complete playing strip, medal and certificate. For further details contact Mike Finn, P.F.A. Director of Football on 99981327 or by email; premier_fa_kuwait @yahoo.com.

Seminar on pediatrics health he Institution of Engineers (India) Kuwait Chapter’s has arranged a seminar on “Pediatric Scientific Explanation of Common Disorders and Treatments” Jointly presented by a panel of eminent Child Specialists consisting of 1. Dr. V. Satya Narayan, 2.Dr. Bhaskar Gupta, 3. Dr. N. Ram, 4. Dr. Gaurav Jadon.

The Topics of the Seminar as follows: 1. Childhood Asthma by Dr. V. Satya Narayan.

2. Adolescent Problems by Dr. Bhaskar Gupta.

3. Convulsions in Children by Dr. N. Ram. 4. Prevention of Childhood Accidents by Dr. Gaurav Jadon.

Seminar Date & Time: 22.01.2010, Friday, 10:30 A.M to 1:00 P.M. Seminar Venue: Holiday Inn, Downtown (at Daheya Ballroom, 4th Floor) This seminar is for the Family (Children of age 6 and above are only allowed).Lunch will be served at the end of the Program.

Those who are interested to attend the seminar are requested to register their names by 16.01.2010 through email vptiwari55@hotmail.com with the Details of Name of the IEI Member, Name of the Spouse, Name of the Children, Contact Nos. For further clarification kindly contact Engr. V.P.Tewari (Mob.: 99560784).

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January 15 Konkani tiatr: History creator of Konkani stage the script writerdirector Tony Dias to recreate his magical spell on Kuwait audience on 15th January 2010. Kala Mogui Kuwait presents the most awaited show of the year 2009, now touring Gulf & the UK to entertain one & all with an award winning performance by each and every artiste in ‘Conny Enterprises’ tiatr Mahanand Monis Vo Soitan? A true story of a serial killer that rocked Goa! Was Mahanand a hard working Goan?

Was he just a lover? A simpleton, a Romantic? Or was it just his fondness for worldly things that enticed him to murders? Or is Mahanand simply an Innocent man after all ?

Seeing is believing On 15th January 2010 at 4.30 pm at Da’iya Fencing Club Hall. For passes contact 22412970 or organizers: 99391452, 97439165, 24726524, 66512602, 99458159 or email: kalamogui@gmail.com Kalanjali Pongal Vizha 2010: Kalanjali Kuwait is planning to organize ‘Pongal Vizha’ on January 15, 2010 in American International School. Special program, similar to Paattukku Paatu (in Tamil), by World famous Bh Abdul Hameed will be conducted. Interested participants can send an email with their details to kalanjaliq8@gmail.com for selection process in Dec 2009 or contact 99816937 / 66457286.

Mega event: Seva Darshan Kuwait will present a mega stage show ‘Bharath Darshan’ on Friday, January 15, 2010 from 9 am onwards at the Marina Hall, Jleeb

Al-Shouyoukh. The mega event will showcase riveting dance and music programs featuring celebrated artists of the Idea Star Singer-fame Somadas, Jins, Prashobh and Superstar Global winner Roopa. They will be supported by the famous comedy duo Kottayam Nazir and Kalabhavan Prajod. The proceeds from the event will go to building a school project for the tribal children in the backward region of Kerala’s Marayoor area. All are welcome to the mega event.

KKMA children’s drawing contest: The grand final contest of KKMA-Tiffany drawing contest for children in Indian schools in Kuwait will be held on Friday, 15th January 2010. A press release from KKMA stated that a total number of 3000 entries were received during the first phase of the contest held in June-October 2009. Children’s from 17 Indian schools in Kuwait participated in this contest. Of which 1000 finalists were selected and invited for an on-the-spot final contest held on January 15th 2010 at Kuwait Indian school in Jleeb (next to 6th ring road). A list of all finalists who are eligible for participating in the final contest is being sent to their respective schools and the participants are contacted by their given contact telephone or emails.

The list is also published at KKMA website www.kkma.net The Association thanked all class teachers and the art/drawing teachers of your school for their kind support without which we could not have received such an immense response. Contest titled as ‘World Peace’ KKMA-Tiffany Drawing Contest is conducted to promote a culture of nonviolence and peace by raising awareness among young children about these concepts. The competition was open to all students of Indian Schools in Kuwait and divided in to four categories - Primary School (Class 1 to IV), Upper Primary School (Class V to VII), Secondary School (Class VIII to Class X), and Senior Secondary School (Class XI and Class XII).

The Phase 1 of the contest was held early this year in which each of the entrants was requested to submit one piece of drawing which responds to the theme, “World Peace”. All entries were then reviewed by a judging panel and 1000 semi-finalists were selected to advance to phase 2 final competitions which will be now held on 15th January 2009. Total of 60 winners, 15 students from each category will be then chosen and awarded with medals and gifts.

MARCH 26 CRYcket 2010: the 13th annual crycket tournament is scheduled to be held on Friday, 26th March 2010 at the KOC Hockey Grounds, Ahmadi. This tournament is organized by FOCC (Friends of Cry Club). Friends of CRY Club (FOCC) is associated with CRY (Child Rights and You), India and its main objectives are to create awareness of the underprivileged Indian children, help restore their basic rights, strive to provide support in personal development of the Indian children in Kuwait and bring out the qualities of social commitment in them.

FOCC has been organizing CRY awareness programmes for children through its two annual events - CRYcket (Cricket match for children below 14 years organized annually since 1997) and CRY chess tournament (for children of all ages organized annually since 2005) - and ‘Brain Bang’ programme which is an ongoing bi-weekly Accelerated Learning activity. CRYcket will be played by 24 teams of children and about 500 spectators are expected for this special one-day event. The deadline to receive the registration forms is 18th March 2010, however registration may be close earlier if the available slots of 12 teams in each category are filled.

A colourful souvenir will be released to mark the 13th year of FOCC’s activities in Kuwait. For details how to become a sponsor and/or to advertise in the Souvenir or to volunteer as a FOCC member, pls visit www.focckwt.org or email focckwt@yahoo.com

The Embassy of India will remain closed tomorrow on account of “Makar Sankaranti”.

The Embassy of India has further revamped and improved its Legal Advice Clinic at the Indian Workers Welfare Center, and made the free service available to Indian nationals on all five working days, i.e. from Sunday to Thursday every week. Kuwaiti lawyers would be available at the Legal Advice Clinic daily from Monday to Thursday, while Indian lawyers would be available on Sundays.

Following are the free welfare services provided at the Indian Workers Welfare Center located at the Embassy of India: [i] 24x7 Helpline for Domestic Workers: Accessible by toll free telephone no.

25674163 from anywhere in Kuwait, it provides information and advice exclusively to Indian domestic sector workers (Visa No. 20) as regards their grievances, immigration and other matters. [ii] Help Desk: It offers guidance to Indian nationals on routine immigration, employment, legal, and other issues (Embassy premises; 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 4.30 PM, Sunday to Thursday); (iii) Labour Complaints Desk: It registers labor complaints and provides grievance redressal service to Indian workers (Embassy premises; 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 4.30 PM, Sunday to Thursday); (iv) Shelters: For female and male domestic workers in distress; (v) Legal Advice Clinic: Provides free legal advice to Indian nationals (Embassy premises; Kuwaiti lawyers 3 PM to 5 PM, Monday to Thursday; Indian lawyers 2 PM to 4 PM on Sunday); and (vi) Attestation of Work Contracts: Private sector worker (Visa No. 18) contracts are accepted at the Embassy; 9 AM to 1 PM; Sunday to Thursday; Domestic sector worker (Visa No. 20) contracts are accepted at Kuwait Union of Domestic Labor Offices (KUDLO), Hawally, Al-Othman Street, Kurd Roundabout, Al-Abraj Complex, Office No 9, Mezzanine Floor; 9 AM to 9 PM, Saturday to Thursday; 5 PM to 9 PM on Friday.

EMBASSY OF PHILIPPINES The Embassy of the Philippines wishes to inform the Filipino community in the State of Kuwait, that the recent supreme court decision to extend the registration of voter’s applies only in local registration in the Philippines under Republic Act no. 8189 and does not apply to overseas voters which is governed by Republic Act no.

9189, hence it has no impact on the plans and preparations on the conduct of overseas absentee voting. The overseas absentee voting for presidential elections will start on 10 April 2010 and will continue uninterrupted until 10 May 2010 daily at the Philippine Embassy.

Registered overseas absentee voters are advised to schedule their days off in advance to avoid complications in their schedules. Qualified voters are encouraged to get out and vote.

EMBASSY OF SOUTH AFRICA The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa’s working hours till Thursday, 31st December 2009 will be from 8 am to 10 am. Please note that the Embassy will be closed on Sunday, 3rd January 2010 on the occasion of the New Year. The Embassy will resume its normal working hours on Monday, 4th January 2010, from Sunday to Thursday. Please note that the working hours will be from 8 am to 16h00 & the Consular section operation hours will be from 8h30 to 12h30.

Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

31

WHAT始S ON IN KUWAIT

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Exhibition at Sultan Gallery

Crowne Plaza Hotel lives up to its winning ways C

rowne Plaza Hotel -Kuwait invited the children and members of the Kuwait Dream Centre, a school that teaches and coaches children with special needs, to spend an enjoyable day at its Kids Club. The Crowne Plaza team warmly welcomed the children and their teachers.

The Kids Club clown entertained the children with lots of games followed by a magic show.

The children spent a great time with the Crowne Plaza team, showcasing their amazing talents like singing, recalling great historical events and even talking about their favorite icon.

The day ended with a delicious lunch that gained their delight and a photo shoot capturing those unforgettable moments. The kids took home little takeaways which they happily accepted from the Crowne Plaza team.

Exhibition this month Below are the details: 1. Title of Exhibition: That Night (Artist: Saleh Al Jumaie).

Exhibition dates & timing: 12th - 28th January.

Opening 12th Januray - 7-9 pm Today- 9am - 4pm & 7 - 9pm.

14 - 28th January 9am - 4pm (Closed on Fridays & Saturdays).

Greetings appy birthday to our dear Isha.

May the Almighty God bless you and keep you in good health.

Greetings from papa, mama, Kuya Aron, Cia, relatives and friends.

W

ishing a very happy birthday to our son R.S. Hariharan who celebrates his 9th birthday today. You are so special to everyone. May God bless you and keep you in good health. Best wishes from Amma S. Sindhu Devi, Achan S.V. Ramesh, Brother R.S. Harikrishrian, Appupan, Ammamma.

Adopt a pet

H

L

illy is a 1 year-old female terrier mix. Lilly is a gorgeous dog that is just as happy as can be.

She has a slight deformity to her front right leg that she was born with but she has no idea.

She has a wonderful spirit and will do best in a home with children over 8 and gets along well with other dogs.

adoptested in ds, r e t in n re f you a Animal Frie or visit 2 m o 2 6 fr 1 g 0 in 0 call 67 imalplease e at www.an it bs our we uwait.org k friends

I

O

llie is a male persian mix. He is sweet, psychic, and knows when you need a cat in your lap. He is friendly with other cats and is about two years old.

Education exhibition versities, colleges and epresentatives from 45 uni m all 4 countries of English language schools fro Crowne Plaza Hotel, the UK will be present. uary 2010 from 17:00 Jan Farwaniya on Wednesday 20 uary 2010: 09:00 - 12:30 - 21:00 and Thursday 21 Jan wer enquiries and provide & 17:00-21:00. They will ans rses, entry requirements information on suitable cou living in the UK, includand details about studying and content, living conditions, ing information on course s and much more. It will costs, welfare arrangement more about the visa applialso be possible to find out cation process.

R

B

atchon is a very alert white persian cat! His eyes are wide watching everything going on around him. Batchon would do best in a home with children over 8.

S

hoto is a 10 month-old male mix breed. Shoto is an active dog with a very loving temperament. Shoto gets along well with other dogs and needs room to run. He will do best in a villa with a garden and with children over 12.

INFORMATION

32

Wednesday, January 13, 2010 FIRE BRIGADE Operation Room 777 Al-Madena 22418714 Al-Shohada始a 22545171 Al-Shuwaikh 24810598 Al-Nuzha 22545171 Sabhan 24742838 Al-Helaly 22434853 Al-Fayhaa 22545051 Al-Farwaniya 24711433 Al-Sulaibikhat 24316983 Al-Fahaheel 23927002 Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh 24316983 Ahmadi 23980088 Al-Mangaf 23711183 Al-Shuaiba 23262845 Al-Jahra 25610011 Al-Salmiya 25616368

Ministry of Interior website: www.moi.gov.kw

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 HOSPITALS Sabah Hospital

24812000

Amiri Hospital

22450005

Maternity Hospital

24843100

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

Chest Hospital

24849400

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

Adan Hospital

23940620

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

Physiotherapy Hospital

POLICE STATION Al-Madena Police Station Al-Murqab Police Station Al-Daiya Police Station Al-Fayha始a Police Station Al-Qadissiya Police Station Al-Nugra Police Station Al-Salmiya Police Station Al-Dasma Police Station

24874330/9 CLINICS

Roudha

22517733

Adhaliya

22517144

Khaldiya

24848075

Keifan

24849807

Shamiya

24848913

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salim

22549134

Al-Nuzha

22526804

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Al-Khadissiya

22515088

Dasmah

22532265

Bneid Al-Ghar

22531908

Al-Shaab

22518752

Al-Kibla

22459381

Ayoun Al-Kibla

22451082

Al-Mirqab

22456536

Sharq

22465401

Salmiya

25746401

Jabriya

25316254

Maidan Hawally

25623444

Bayan

25388462

Mishref

25381200

W.Hawally

22630786

Sabah

24810221

Jahra

24770319

New Jahra

24575755

West Jahra

24772608

South Jahra

24775066

North Jahra

24775992

North Jleeb

24311795

Al-Ardhiya

24884079

Firdous

4892674

Al-Omariya

4719048

N.Kheitan

4710044

Rabiya

4732263

Fintas

3900322

THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY FOR CIVIL INFORMATION Automated enquiry about the Civil ID card is 1889988 AIRLINES

PHARMACIES ON 24 HRS DUTY GOVERNORATE Ahmadi

PHARMACY Sama Safwan Abu Halaifa Danat Al-Sultan

ADDRESS Fahaeel Makka St Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd

PHONE 23915883 23715414 23726558

Jahra

Modern Jahra Madina Munawara

Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 Jahra-Block 92

24575518 24566622

Capital

Ahlam Khaldiya Coop

Fahad Al-Salem St Khaldiya Coop

22436184 24833967

Farwaniya

New Shifa Ferdous Coop Modern Safwan

Farwaniya Block 40 Ferdous Coop Old Kheitan Block 11

24734000 24881201 24726638

Hawally

Tariq Hana Ikhlas Hawally & Rawdha Ghadeer Kindy

Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Salmiya-Amman St Hawally-Beirut St Hawally & Rawdha Coop Jabriya-Block 1A Jabriya-Block 3B

25726265 25647075 22625999 22564549 25340559 25326554

EMERGENCY 112

PRIVATE CLINICS Ophthalmologists: Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea Dr. Masoma Habeeb Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy Dr. Mohsen Abel Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly

25622444 25752222 25321171 25739999 25757700 25732223 25732223

Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT): Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 General Practitioners: Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Urologists: Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi22616660 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Plastic Surgeons: Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272

22434064 22435865 22544200 22547133 22515277 22616662 25714406 22530801

Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari Dr. Abdel Quttainah

22617700 25625030/60

Family Doctor: Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581

Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr.

Zahra Qabazard Sohail Qamar Snaa Maaroof Pradip Gujare Zacharias Mathew

25710444 22621099 25713514 23713100 24334282

(1) Ear, Nose and Throat Psychiatrists Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians: Dr Adrian Harbe 23729596/23729581 Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 General Surgeons: Dr. Abidallah Behbahani 25717111 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148

Paediatricians: Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300

Rheumatologists: Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290

(2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, FRCS (Canada)

25655535 Dentists:

Dr Anil Thomas

3729596/3729581

Dr. Shamah Al-Matar

22641071/2

Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed

22562226

Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer

22561444

Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan

22619557

Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash

22525888

Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan

25653755

Dr. Bader Al-Ansari

25620111

Neurologists:

Internist, Chest & Heart: DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Assistant Professor Of Medicine Head, Division of Cardiology Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital Tel: 25339667 Dr. Farida Al-Habib MD, PH.D, FACC Consultant Cardiologist Tel: 2611555-2622555 Inaya German Medical Center Te: 2575077 Fax: 25723123

Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan

Internists, Chest & Heart: Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3

Physiotherapists & VD: Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288

25345875

Gastrologists Dr. Sami Aman

22636464

Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali

22633135

Endocrinologist: Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari

25658888

Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr

25329924

Psychologists/Psychotherapists Soor Center Tel: 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 info@soorcenter.com www.soorcenter.com Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, Ph.D. 2290-1677 Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg, M.A. 2290-1677 William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677

Kuwait Airways Wataniya Airways Jazeera Airways Jet Airways Qatar Airways KLM Air Slovakia Olympic Airways Royal Jordanian Reservation British Airways Air France Emirates Air India Sri Lanka Airlines Egypt Air Swiss Air Saudia Middle East Airlines Lufthansa PIA Alitalia Balkan Airlines Bangladesh Airlines Czech Airlines Indian Airlines Oman Air Turkish Airlines

22433377 24379900 177 22477631 22423888 22425747 22434940 22420002/9 22418064/5/6 22433388 22425635 22430224 22425566 22438184 22424444 22421578 22421516 22426306 22423073 22422493 22421044 22414427 22416474 22452977/8 22417901/2433141 22456700 22412284/5 22453820/1

INTERNATIONAL CALLS Afghanistan Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antiga Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Cyprus Cyprus (Northern) Czech Republic Denmark Diego Garcia Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador England (UK)

0093 00355 00213 00376 00244 001264 001268 0054 00374 0061 0043 001242 00973 00880 001246 00375 0032 00501 00229 001441 00975 00591 00387 00267 0055 00673 00359 00226 00257 00855 00237 001 00238 001345 00236 00235 0056 0086 0057 00269 00242 00682 00506 00385 0053 00357 0090392 00420 0045 00246 00253 001767 001809 00593 0020 00503 0044

Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guinea Guyana Haiti Holland (Netherlands) Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Ibiza (Spain) Iceland India Indian Ocean Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Liberia Libya Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia

00240 00291 00372 00251 00500 00298 00679 00358 0033 00594 00689 00241 00220 00995 0049 00233 00350 0030 00299 001473 00590 001671 00502 00224 00592 00509 0031 00504 00852 0036 0034 00354 0091 00873 0062 0098 00964 00353 0039 00225 001876 0081 00962 007 00254 00686 00965 00996 00856 00371 00961 00231 00218 00370 00352 00853 00389

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

33 ACCOMMODATION Sharing accommodation available for couple/ executive bachelor/ working lady in C-A/C flat big room in Salwa street no. 1, block no.

4 with south Indian family, DSL wireless internet available, rent KD 75. Contact: 66492509. (C 20188) Sharing accommodation available in Salmiya near church central A/C building, separate room, for bachelors/ couple/ ladies. Contact: 99815378. (C 20185) Sharing accommodation available for Goan or Mangalorean small family or bachelors share with a small family two bedroom flat window A/C near Rashid hospital Shara Amman Salmiya.

Contact: 94969047. (C 20178) Sharing accommodation available for Hindu or Christian bachelor share with another bachelor with Keralite family in Abbassiya near Integrated school central A/C 2 bedroom kitchen facility available. Contact: 66172468. (C 20179) Sharing accommodation available for Goan or Mangalorean small family or two non smoking bachelors share with a small Mangalorean family C-A/C flat near Rashid hospital, Shara Amman, Salmiya. Contact: 97528430. (C 20177) One room available for working ladies or family in Maidan Hawally central A/C new building, opposite Maroosh restaurant and Bushari, from 25-1-2010.

Contact: 55216554.

(C 20154) 13-1-2010 Sharing accommodation available in Riggai for working ladies in a C-AC flat with a Keralite family. Contact: 97838515, 66817761.

(C 20176) Sharing accommodation

available for Indian Christian couples or working ladies in Abbassiya. Please contact: 66538532.

(C 20171) One room available in Benaid Al-Gar, very near to Al-Salam hospital for decent working ladies (central A/C room). Please contact: 97879611. (C 20168) Sharing accommodation available in C-A/C building for single bachelor/ small family sharing with Mangalorean family, near Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan School, Abbassiya. Contact: 24334903/ 66795128 after 4 pm. (C 20170) Sharing accommodation available for Keralite family working ladies or couple.

Tel: 97769931. (C 20173) Sharing accommodation available for a small Keralite family in Abbassiya adjacent to Integrated Indian School & Bharathiya Vidhya Bhavan from February 1st. Contact: 97846304 (24346984 after 6 pm). (C 20174) Sharing accommodation, one single room for rent for 2 persons, bachelors/ families, rent KD 50, Hawally Sharabeel Rd near American Creativity school (boys).

Phone: 66494467, 99218163. (C 20172) 12-1-2010 Sharing accommodation available near Highland super market Abbassiya for Keralite family from January 26th or February 1st onwards, rent KD 70. Contact: 66598187. (C 20163) Sharing accommodation available in Reggai for a family/ bachelors with an Indian Keralite family in a CAC building. Contact: 66531607. (C 20162) Sharing accommodation available for decent bachelors (non smoking & non alcoholic) with Keralite family in a 2 BR flat with 2 bath-

room. Tel: 24349401, 99684527. (C 20161) Accommodation available near Indian Central School Abbassiya, with 2 bedroom 2 bathroom flat for female or Indian bachelor. Contact: 97506913. (C 20165) 11-1-2010 Sharing accommodation available in Abbassiya for Keralite couple with couple.

Contact: 66615462 after 3 pm. (C 20151) Sharing accommodation available C-A/C flat in Abbassiya near Balansia bakery for a Keralite decent bachelor.

Contact: 99652616. (C 20150) Sharing accommodation available in Abbassiya decent Keralite couple only, Jan 21st or Feb 1st, double bedroom flat rent 80 KD. Contact: 97142939, 99263083. (C 20152) Sharing accommodation available for a couple/ small family or two non-smoking bachelors in a two bedroom flat in Abbassiya from 1st Feb 10. Contact: 24315927/ 97669236. (C 20153)

FOR SALE Jeep Suzuki Grand Vitara 2007, 2 door, manual gear, blue color, cruise control, CD, 37 km, perfect condition, agency warranty. KD 2,600. Contact: 99881982 . (C 20184) Mitsubishi Gallant, model 2008, silver color, 72,000 km, 6 cylinders, options, excellent condition, price KD 2,950.

Contact: 66026259/ 55273700.

(C 20181) Laptop Toshiba Satellite 2.0Ghz Core 2 Duo, 2 GB, 250 GB, DVD writer, 15.6 crystal screen, wireless, webcam, windows 7 with 1 year warranty.

Call: 22473767. (C 20182) Household

sofa

set

3+2+1+1, center table + 2 side tables, dining table with 6 chairs, carpets, and Miscellaneous items. Call: 66422986, 97877993, 66026707. (C 20183) Pentium 4, Intel, 40GB HDD, 256 MB RAM, CD Writer, 56 modem, speakers, 17� CRT monitor, KD 40. Pentium 4, 3.0 Ghz, 160 GB HDD, 1 GBDDR2 RAM, DVD Combo with 17� LG CRT Flatron monitor KD 60.

Contact: 66244192.

(C 20186) 13-1-2010 Daewoo Lanos model 1998, good condition, KD 575, km 1,27000. Contact: 66552895. (C 20169) Jeep Pajero 92, color golden + brown, full option, engine, transmission, interior, exterior, AC front and rear all in excellent condition, one year registration, installment 49 KD monthly, balance 980 KD to KFH, for details: 99322585.

(C 20175) 12-1-2010 Japanese Daihatsu jeep for sale, 2005 model, good condition.

Contact: 97869143, 97625674.

(C 20166) Brand new IPC camera Sony model SNC M3W-digital video KD 120, Linksys model WVC200 KD 60.

Mobile: 99489047.

(C 20167) 11-1-2010

MATRIMONIAL Proposals invited for a Tamil, Pentecost Christian girl, 31 years, 169 cm height, occupational therapist working in Kuwait.

Email: cmatrimony@gmail.com (C 20180) Proposals invited for Keralite Orthodox boy Kollam Dist. 30/174, working in reputed company in Kuwait, from employed girls please contact with details to: wilsonklm@yahoo.com (C 20187) 13-1-2010

Orthodox NRI parents invite suitable proposals for their daughter 25/170, BE, working with Kuwait University from professionally qualified God fearing boys (Orthodox, Marthoma, CSI) working in Kuwait. Please contact with details to anupg2010@gmail.com (C 20160) 11-1-2010 BABY SITTING

No: 14608 Baby sitting available, nursery base, age up to 1 year child, home care motherly care age up to 3 months Salwa, area 6, St 2, near Alghanim school, more details 66434840.

(C 20164) 11-1-2010

SITUATION VACANT

Wanted part/ full time maid for Indian family in Riggae, preferably Goan. Contact: 99694619. (C 20156) 10-1-2010 Required live in maid for Keralite family. Please call 99509436. (C 20129) 5-1-2010

Flight Schedule Arrival Flights on Wednesday 13/01/2010 Airlines Flt Route Jazeera 0283 Beirut Tunis Air 327 Tunis/Dubai Jazeera 0189 Dubai Wataniya Airways 2011 Sharm El Sheikh Royal Jordanian 802 Amman Jet A/W 574 Cochin Wataniya Airways 2103 Beirut Kalitta 531 Sharjah Gulf Air 211 Bahrain Jazeera 0513 Sharm El Sheikh Kuwait 544 Cairo Turkish A/L 1172 Istanbul D.H.L. 370 Bahrain Emirates 853 Dubai Etihad 0305 Abu Dhabi Qatari 0138 Doha Ethiopian 622 Addis Ababa/Bahrain Air France 6770 Paris Jazeera 0503 Luxor Jazeera 0527 Alexandria Kuwait 416 Jakarta/Kuala Lumpur Jazeera 0529 Assiut Jazeera 0481 Sabiha British 0157 London Kalitta 533 Al Fujairah Kuwait 206 Islamabad Kuwait 352 Cochin Jazeera 0161 Dubai Kuwait 302 Mumbai Kuwait 362 Colombo Kuwait 676 Dubai Emirates 855 Dubai Kuwait 286 Chittagong Arabia 0121 Sharjah Qatari 0132 Doha Etihad 0301 Abu Dhabi Gulf Air 213 Bahrain Wataniya Airways 1121 Bahrain Jazeera 0447 Doha Jazeera 0165 Dubai Jazeera 0425 Dubai/Bahrain Wataniya Airways 1021 Dubai Jazeera 0113 Abu Dhabi Iran Air 619 Lar Middle East 404 Beirut Oman Air 0646 Muscat Yemenia 825 Sanaa Pakistan 239 Sialkot Egypt Air 610 Cairo Jazeera 0171 Dubai Kuwait 672 Dubai Wataniya Airways 2301 Damascus Jazeera 0255 Beirut Jazeera 0525 Alexandria Jazeera 0257 Beirut Wataniya Airways 2001 Cairo

Time 00:05 00:10 00:15 00:15 00:35 00:40 00:50 01:00 01:05 01:25 01:30 02:15 02:15 02:35 03:00 03:25 03:30 04:35 05:35 06:10 06:25 06:30 06:35 06:40 07:00 07:40 07:40 07:45 07:55 08:20 08:20 08:30 08:35 08:55 09:00 09:35 10:45 10:45 11:00 11:05 11:10 11:20 11:20 11:50 11:55 12:15 12:35 12:50 12:55 13:05 13:25 13:35 13:50 14:05 14:10 14:20

Kuwait Kuwait Jazeera Qatari Kuwait Kuwait Royal Jordanian Jazeera Emirates Gulf Air Saudi Arabian A/L Etihad Jazeera Arabia Jazeera Wataniya Airways Jazeera Sri Lankan United A/L Jazeera Wataniya Airways D.H.L. Wataniya Airways Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait Jazeera Kuwait Kuwait Indian Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait Jet A/W Wataniya Airways Saudi Arabian A/L Jazeera Jazeera Gulf Air Kuwait Middle East Qatari Kuwait Emirates Jazeera Jazeera Global Jazeera Jazeera Egypt Air Egypt Air Shaheen Air Lufthansa Wataniya Airways Wataniya Airways Pakistan Wataniya Airways

552 Damascus 744 Dammam 0457 Damascus 0134 Doha 284 Dhaka 546 Alexandria 800 Amman 0173 Dubai 857 Dubai 215 Bahrain 510 Riyadh 0303 Abu Dhabi 0239 Amman 0125 Sharjah 0367 Deirezzor 2101 Beirut 0497 Riyadh 227 Colombo/Dubai 982 Washington DC Dulles 0427 Dubai/Bahrain 2003 Cairo 473 Baghdad 1025 Dubai 542 Cairo 674 Dubai 166 Paris/Rome 0177 Dubai 614 Bahrain 774 Riyadh 575 Chennai/Goa 102 New York/London 562 Amman 618 Doha 572 Mumbai 1201 Jeddah 506 Jeddah 0459 Damascus 0343 Sanaa/Bahrain 217 Bahrain 786 Jeddah 402 Beirut 0136 Doha 502 Beirut 859 Dubai 0449 Doha 0429 Dubai/Bahrain 081 Baghdad 0117 Abu Dhabi 0185 Dubai 612 Cairo 606 Luxor 441 Lahore/Karachi 636 Frankfurt 2201 Amman 1020 Dubai 215 Karachi 1129 Bahrain

14:35 14:40 14:45 15:00 15:10 15:30 15:40 16:05 16:55 17:05 17:15 17:15 17:35 17:40 17:45 17:50 18:00 18:05 18:15 18:15 18:20 18:30 18:40 18:50 18:55 19:00 19:05 19:20 19:30 19:30 19:35 19:40 20:00 20:05 20:15 20:35 20:40 20:55 21:05 21:10 2 1:20 21:35 22:00 22:00 22:10 22:15 22:20 22:25 22:40 22:45 23:00 23:05 23:30 23:40 23:45 23:55 23:55

Departure Flights on Wednesday l3-01-2010 Airlines Flt Route Egypt Air 607 Luxor Jazeera 0528 Assiut India Express 390 Mangalore/Kozhikode United A/L 981 Washington DC Dulles Jazeera 0160 Dubai Tunis Air 328 Tunis Indian 982 Ahmedabad/Chennai Pakistan 206 Lahore Bangladesh 044 Dhaka Jet A/W 573 Cochin Safi A/W 216 Kabul Kuwait 283 Dhaka D.H.L. 371 Bahrain Turkish A/L 1173 Istanbul Emirates 854 Dubai Etihad 0306 Abu Dhabi Ethiopian 622 Addis Ababa Kalitta 537 Kandahar Qatari 0139 Doha Jazeera 0162 Dubai Air France 6770 Duba1/Hong Kong Wataniya Airways 1020 Dubai Jazeera 0164 Dubai Royal Jordanian 803 Amman Jazeera 0524 Alexandria Wataniya Airways 2000 Cairo Jazeera 0112 Abu Dhabi Jazeera 0446 Doha Gulf Air 212 Bahrain Jazeera 0254 Beirut Wataniya Airways 1120 Bahrain Jazeera 0422 Bahrain/Dubai Wataniya Airways 2300 Damascus Kuwait 545 Alexandria Jazeera 0256 Beirut British 0156 London Kuwait 671 Dubai Kuwait 551 Damascus Jazeera 0456 Damascus Arabia 0122 Sharjah Emirates 856 Dubai Kuwait 117 New York Qatari 0133 Doha Etihad 0302 Abu Dhabi Kuwait 173 Frankfurt/Geneva Kal1tta 533 Kandahar Wataniya Airways 2002 Cairo Gulf Air 214 Bahrain Jazeera 0426 Bahrain/Dubai Kuwait 743 Dammam Kuwait 541 Cairo Jazeera 0172 Dubai Wataniya Airways 2100 Beirut Jazeera 0366 Deirezzor Jazeera 0238 Amman Kuwait 103 London

FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION 161

Time 00:01 00:05 00:30 00:40 00:55 01:00 01:05 01:10 01:15 01:40 02:30 02:55 03:15 03:15 03:50 04:10 04:15 05:00 05:00 06:00 06:20 07:00 07:00 07:05 07:20 07:30 07:35 07:40 07:45 07:45 07:50 07:55 08:10 08:30 08:35 08:55 09:00 09:10 09:25 09:35 09:40 10:00 10:00 10:20 10:20 11:00 11:30 11:40 11:50 11:55 12:00 12:00 12:05 12:20 12:25 12:30

Iran Air Middle East Oman Air Yemenia Pakistan Jazeera Egypt Air Kuwait Nat1onal Kuwait Kuwait Jazeera Jazeera Wataniya Airways Jazeera Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait Kuwait Royal Jordanian Qatari Kuwait Jazeera Gulf Air Etihad Emirates Arabia Jazeera Saudi Arab A/L Jazeera Jazeera Wataniya Airways Global Jazeera Jazeera Wataniya Airways Sri Lankan Wataniya Airways Kuwait Kuwait Wataniya Airways Jet A/W Kuwait Jazeera Jazeera Saudi Arabian A/L Gulf Air D.H.L. Kuwait Middle East Qatari Kuwait Emirates Jazeera Jazeera Egypt Air Jazeera Kuwait

618 405 0646 825 240 0342 611 1024 673 561 0496 0176 1200 0438 785 773 501 613 801 0135 617 0182 216 0304 858 0126 0262 511 0184 0116 2200 082 0448 0428 2102 228 1028 361 343 1128 571 331 0266 0606 507 218 171 675 403 0137 301 860 0636 0526 613 0502 411

Lar Beirut Muscat Doha/Sanaa Sialkot Sanaa Cairo Dubai Dubai Amman Riyadh Dubai Jeddah Damascus Jeddah Riyadh Beirut Bahrain Amman Doha Doha Dubai Bahrain Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Beirut Riyadh Dubai Abu Dhabi Amman Baghdad Doha Bahrain/Dubai Beirut Dubai/Colombo Dubai Colombo Chennai Bahrain Mumbai Trivandrum Beirut Mumbai Jeddah Bahrain Bahrain Dubai Beirut Doha Mumbai Dubai Aleppo Alexandria Cairo Luxor Bangkok/Manila

12:50 12:55 13:15 13:35 13:40 13:50 13:55 14:25 14:30 14:35 14:40 15:05 15:10 15:30 15:45 16:10 16:10 16:20 16:25 16:30 16:35 16:55 17:55 18:00 18:10 18:20 18:25 18:30 18:35 18:40 18:40 18:50 18:50 19:00 19:05 19:15 19:30 20:20 20:50 21:00 21:10 21:25 21:30 21:50 21:55 21:55 22:00 22:10 22:20 22:35 22:45 23:10 23:20 23:25 23:45 23:50 23:55

SPECTRUM

34 CROSSWORD 868

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Calvin Aries (March 21-April 19) Once work gets

underway you have a feeling of confidence and optimism. There is motivation to improve and promote you. This week will bring opportunities for you to balance the budget, work on your goals and detect ways to improve the income. You may however, find someone you meet today is too shifty and sly for your taste.

Your thoughts and ideas go against a secretive, authoritative manner and if you must, you are not afraid to tell someone how you feel. Science, philosophy or religion are likely to seem as if they hold the ultimate answers for you. You may enjoy spending time in the library this afternoon. Stay away from power plays with young people this evening and you will enjoy a healing attitude on the home front.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Be watchful and calculating

with finances the rest of this month. This is a rewarding day and a plus for any type of investments. You will be able to allow yourself the purchase of a desired item later this afternoon. Money comes in, but it goes out just as quickly. You are wise to set aside a part of each pay check for playtime and then become frugal and wise with the remainder. Your cooperation in working with others in a mutual pursuit and has positive results. Your communication skills are improving and you may find that socializing presents a pleasant event this afternoon. You are most persuasive and may find this is a good time to make your requests and wishes known. If you are not involved in a relationship now, you will be soon.

Pooch Cafe

ACROSS 1. (Norse mythology) Ruler of the Aesir.

5. Thickening of tissue in the motor tracts of the lateral columns and anterior horns of the spinal cord.

8. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

11. Any of various minerals consisting of hydrous silicates of aluminum or potassium etc. that crystallize in forms that allow perfect cleavage into very thin leaves.

12. Resinlike substance secreted by certain lac insects.

13. An anxiety disorder characterized by chronic free-floating anxiety and such symptoms as tension or sweating or trembling of lightheadedness or irritability etc that has lasted for more than six months.

14. A trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group.

15. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali earth group.

17. (Zoroastrianism) Title for benevolent deities.

18. The state of matter distinguished from the solid and liquid states by.

20. No longer having or seeming to have or expecting to have life.

22. A condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders.

23. The capital and largest city of Ghana with a deep-water port.

26. The large trunk artery that carries blood from the left ventricle of the heart to branch arteries.

28. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

32. A software system that facilitates the creation and maintenance and use of an electronic database.

34. The federal agency that insures residential mortgages.

35. An ester of adenosine that is converted to ATP for energy storage.

37. A compartment in front of a motor vehicle where driver sits.

43. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism.

44. A federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment.

48. The officer below the master on a commercial ship.

50. A colorless and odorless inert gas.

51. A metabolic acid found in yeast and liver cells.

52. Using speech rather than writing.

53. A person forced to flee from home or country.

54. Showing characteristics of age, especially having gray or white hair.

DOWN 1. The ending of a series or sequence.

2. English theoretical physicist who applied relativity theory to quantum mechanics and predicted the existence of antimatter and the positron (1902-1984).

3. Being nine more than ninety.

4. Tag the base runner to get him out.

5. A silvery ductile metallic element found primarily in bauxite.

6. A white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily.

7. Any of a number of fishes of the family Carangidae.

8. Largest known toad species.

9. A lyric poet.

10. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind.

16. The sixth month of the civil year.

19. A fraudulent business scheme.

21. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

24. Large genus of erect or climbing prickly shrubs including roses.

25. Unknown god.

27. A protocol developed for the internet to get data from one network device to another.

29. A federation of North American labor unions that merged with the Congress of Industrial Organizations in 1955.

30. A blood group antigen possessed by Rh-positive people.

31. (Akkadian) God of wisdom.

33. 35th President of the United States.

36. Small cubes with 1 to 6 spots on the faces.

38. (botany) Of or relating to the axil.

39. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad.

40. An association of people to promote the welfare of senior citizens.

41. A small cake leavened with yeast.

42. Massive plantigrade carnivorous or omnivorous mammals with long shaggy coats and strong claws.

45. A number of sheets of paper fastened together along one edge.

46. Enlarged prostate.

47. Of or relating to a member of the Buddhist people inhabiting the Mekong river in Laos and Thailand.

49. Angular distance above the horizon (especially of a celestial object).

Gemini (May 21-June 20) If you are selling a product, this could be one of your biggest days—you can be very persuasive with others. Your ideas will have a good chance of being accepted today as well. You may be visiting a chiropractor or healer for something that others may not understand. Be careful in what you say to your co-workers regarding these methods—they may add this to the list of abstract choices in which you can be famous. You know your body best—do what is best for yourself and keep any unusual methods or means to yourself. Do your research and think things though before moving in the opposite direction of the regular flow of things this afternoon. Unexpected expenses could have you panicky. You will find an answer if you do not panic.

Non Sequitur

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Taking care of business is a major theme where your intentions are today. Any old pre-holiday problems regarding work and health may be best taken care of or settled now. There is the feeling that your life is improving and plans are in place for you to reach those goals of yours. This is a propitious time to weigh the pros and cons of any business venture or investment. Pay attention to all the details involved. Resist the temptation to live beyond your means during this time! Later today there is an opportunity to jump in and settle a disagreement between two friends—don’t. This situation will occur again and again whether you help or not. These two people need to work out their own problems so that they will remember the lesson.

Leo (July 23-August 22) You crave organization and practicality and you want to get things accomplished. You aim to have a place for everything and everything in its place—and anything that gets in the way, gets on your nerves. Health and work goals take on greater importance for you now. This morning is a good time to begin an exercise routine. You begin now to clear your body of toxins. Concentrate on maintaining a connection with your inner self. You may receive help from a guide or teacher along these lines as well. Be aware of miscommunications, someone you love may not hear as well as they used to—patience. Music, dinner away from home, a good book or even a movie may help you to balance your energies this evening.

Zits

Virgo (August 23-September 22) Learning experiences can sometime come through the disappointments we experience. Do not get too flustered about a recent disappointment—it could be a blessing in disguise.

Emotional rewards are available if you are observant. Longrange and long-distance matters will come to your attention today—perhaps an overseas order has been delayed. You will do what you can to investigate and solve problems. Psychic awareness is possible now—it will help you to stay tuned to your progress and the areas that do or do not need your attention. Problem solving becomes a simple thing this afternoon. Certainly, you will want to relax tonight.

Careful . . . it would be easy to over-eat with rich food still hanging out in your kitchen after the holidays.

Libra (September 23-October 22) There is a lot of passion to accomplish whatever is needed. It is necessary to get rid of some of the things that slow your progress. Look very hard at every cubbyhole, drawer, box or closet in your living and work surroundings to accomplish this clean-up job. You may feel that your energies have been invested in too many different areas—you are ready to streamline your goals.

There is an opportunity to complete this task but the afternoon is full of meetings, conferences or serving the public. It is easy for you to get ideas across to others and this is what you will be doing after the noon break. You rush home this evening to play with a recent hobby you have received— perhaps a gift. This could even mean some fun playtime with a young person.

Mother Goose and Grimm

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) Work is not where

your interests are just now and you could be dragging your feet. Tempers may be short—however, the more at ease you are, the better things will go today. Do some constructive self-talk and renew your enthusiasm—it will pay. Perseverance is crucial during this short time. Rewards may come your way for a job well done. Don’t be shy; say thank you— patience does pay! You have become a prized asset at work and people want to show their appreciation. Being in the spotlight is common to you during this time and you should realize that it is a good time to be humble and see where work can best help others. A social get-together with friends may find you out-of-doors enjoying the beauty around you. You are refreshed.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Courage and stability is important to you. You look for these things in others and you express them in the work you do. This could be a period of material gain. Combined energies turn to value and bring out your unique and unusual qualities. Sales techniques are an advantage right now. You will be making style changes in your attire and perhaps hairstyle during this time. Life is easier than you think—all you have to do is: accept the impossible, do without the indispensable, bear the intolerable and be able to smile at anything. You are very expressive and sociable most days and you will find yourself encouraging your friends into some social gathering. Artistic activities are favored as well as just going out to have fun.

Yesterday’s Solution

Capricorn (December 22-January 19) Keep

yester

Yesterday’s Solution

to

INTERNATIONAL CALLS Kuwait Qatar Abu Dhabi Dubai Raas Al Khayma Al-Shareqa Muscat Jordan Bahrain Riyadh Makkah - Jeddah Cairo Alexandria Beirut Damascus Allepo

00965 00974 009712 009714 009717 009716 00968 009626 00973 009661 009662 00202 00203 009611 0096311 0096321

Tunisia Rabat Washington New York Paris London Madrid Zurich Geneva Monaco Rome Bangkok Hong Kong Pakistan Taiwan Bonn

0021610 002127 001212 001718 00331 004471 00341 00411 004122 0033 00396 00662 00852 0092 00886 0049228

Word Sleuth Solution

in touch with the business financial news. You have a great deal of insight into all of your dealings and must exercise balance and moderation in all of your financial dealings. This will give you some idea of the trends and how you will want to invest. Save for a while—you will then be able to choose and invest wisely. When you entertain, it is as though someone created magic. You will be organizing a social event for authority figures soon and you will find most of your afternoon spent in asking questions about preferences and making arrangements. Be flexible now—you will find some wonderful adventures. This is an excellent time to get to know someone better. Perhaps time spent over a cup of tea or coffee and some good conversation.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) Business is productive today. You may finally see some closure on unfinished business. Your current situation may demand some re-evaluation or otherwise challenge your ideas. Be careful in the way you act toward employers during this time. Be wise to get a consultant on a new project that you want to begin. If you take the initiative, a goal that seemed beyond your reach may be obtainable soon. Stay within the established tradition as you proceed with your day. This afternoon you may notice a more harmonious time in the household or surrounding, especially in relations with loved ones. This inner peace may foster a spiritual resurgence. There are some incredibly romantic feelings in you, intensifying love relationship now.

Pisces (February 19-March 20) Good eye-hand coordination and a sustained effort make almost any task run well. An authority figure may be changing their mind in the middle of a project today. Do not question the request, just go with it—there is more to this than meets the eye. You may feel you need lots more money, and no matter how much you have, you seem to spend more than you make.

Design a budget for yourself today and pay to have an accountant help you stay on this path until you feel you can fly on your own—it is worth the extra money. You may feel like exercising or getting out and breathing a bit of fresh air this evening. Sometime this evening you will realize just how much influence you have on someone and you design a plan to be helpful in some way.

TV PROGRAMS

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

35

Orbit listings / Show listings AMERICA PLUS 00:00 Lost 01:00 Private Practice 02:00 Grey’s Anatomy 03:00 Cold Case 04:00 The Closer 05:00 Lost 06:00 GMA Recorded 08:00 GMA Health 08:30 What’s the Buzz 09:00 Private Practice 10:00 Grey’s Anatomy 11:00 *24* 12:00 The Closer 13:00 Cold Case 14:00 *24* 15:00 GMA Live 17:00 GMA Health 17:30 What’s the Buzz 18:00 The Closer 19:00 Lost 20:00 The O.C. 21:00 Private Practice 22:00 Grey’s Anatomy 23:00 Supernatural ANIMAL PLANET 00:50 Animal Cops Houston 01:45 In Search of the Giant Anaconda 02:40 Untamed & Uncut 03:35 K9 Cops 04:30 Animal Cops Phoenix 05:25 Animal Cops Houston 06:20 Lemur Street 06:45 Monkey Business 07:10 RSPCA: On the Frontline 07:35 Pet Passport 08:00 Wildlife SOS 08:25 Pet Rescue 08:50 Animal Precinct 09:45 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 10:10 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 10:40 RSPCA: On the Frontline 11:05 Animal Cops Houston 11:55 The Jeff Corwin Experience 12:50 Wildlife SOS 13:15 Pet Rescue 13:45 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 14:10 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 14:40 In Search of the Giant Anaconda 15:35 Lemur Street 16:00 Monkey Business 16:30 Pet Rescue 16:55 Pet Passport 17:25 Wildlife SOS 17:50 RSPCA: On the Frontline 18:20 Animal Cops Phoenix 19:15 Planet Earth 20:10 In Search of the King Cobra 21:10 Animal Cops Houston 22:05 Untamed & Uncut 23:00 Planet Earth 23:55 Animal Cops Phoenix BBC ENTERTAINMENT 01:05 The Week The Women Went 02:05 Life In The Undergrowth 02:55 The Whistleblowers 03:45 Blackjack 02: In The Money 05:15 The Week The Women Went 06:35 Bargain Hunt 07:20 Balamory 07:40 Tweenies 08:00 Fimbles 08:20 Teletubbies 08:45 Yoho Ahoy 08:50 Tommy Zoom 09:00 Balamory 09:20 Tweenies 09:40 Fimbles 10:00 Teletubbies 10:25 Yoho Ahoy 10:30 Tommy Zoom 10:40 Bargain Hunt 11:25 The Week The Women Went 12:25 Life In The Undergrowth 13:15 The Weakest Link 14:00 Eastenders 14:30 Doctors 15:00 Bargain Hunt 15:45 Cash In The Attic 16:15 Antiques Roadshow 17:15 The Weakest Link 18:00 Doctors 18:30 Eastenders 19:00 The Whistleblowers 19:50 Model Gardens 20:10 Antiques Roadshow 21:00 The Weakest Link 21:45 Doctors 22:15 Eastenders 22:45 Goldplated 23:45 Casualty

04:30 04:45 05:00 05:30 05:45 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 10:45 11:00 11:30 11:45 12:00 12:30 13:00 14:00 14:30 14:45 15:00 16:00 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 20:30 20:45 21:00 21:30 22:00 23:00 23:30

17:00 Utopian Society - PG15 19:00 The Sunchaser - PG15 21:00 The Last Request - PG15 23:00 Merlin and the Book of Beasts

Asia Business Report - U Sport Today - U Bbc World News - U Asia Business Report - U Asia Today - U World News Today - U Bbc World News - U Hardtalk - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Sport Today - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Sport Today - U Bbc World News - U Hardtalk - U Bbc World News - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Sport Today - U World News Today - U World News Today - U Bbc World News - U Hardtalk - U Bbc World News - U Fast Track - U World News Today - U Bbc World News - U World Business Report - U Sport Today - U Bbc World News - U Hardtalk - U World News Today - U Bbc World News - U Our World - U

CARTOON NETWORK 00:15 Out of Jimmy’s Head 00:40 Chop Socky Chooks 01:05 Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends 01:30 Cramp Twins 01:55 George of the Jungle 02:20 Adrenalini Brothers 02:45 Gadget Boy 03:10 Ed, Edd n Eddy 03:35 Class of 3000 04:00 The Powerpuff Girls 04:15 Robotboy 04:40 The Secret Saturdays 05:05 Chowder 05:30 Ben 10 05:55 Best Ed 06:20 Samurai Jack 06:45 Cramp Twins 07:10 Eliot Kid 07:35 The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack 08:00 My Spy Family

CNN INTERNATIONAL 00:00 Connect The World 01:00 Backstory 01:30 World Sport 02:00 The Situation Room 03:00 World Report 04:00 World Business Today 04:30 World Sport 05:00 World Report 06:00 Anderson Cooper 360 07:00 World Report 07:30 Talkasia 08:00 World Report 08:30 Backstory 09:00 World Report 10:30 World Sport 11:00 World Report 11:30 World Business Today 12:00 World Report 12:30 Cnn Business Traveller 13:00 Larry King 14:00 World Report 14:30 World Sport 15:00 World Report 16:00 Amanpour.

16:30 Talkasia 17:00 World Business Today 18:00 International Desk 19:00 The Brief 19:30 World Sport 20:00 Prism 20:30 Cnn Business Traveller 21:00 International Desk 22:00 Quest Means Business 23:00 Amanpour.

23:30 World One DISCOVERY CHANNEL 00:00 Destroyed in Seconds 00:30 Destroyed in Seconds 01:00 Miami Ink 02:00 Street Customs 2008 02:55 American Chopper 03:50 Chop Shop 04:45 Mythbusters 05:40 How It’s Made 06:05 Ultimate Survival 07:00 Extreme Engineering 07:55 Chop Shop 08:50 Street Customs 2008 09:45 How Do They Do It? 10:10 Mythbusters 11:05 Ultimate Survival 12:00 Destroyed in Seconds 12:55 How Do They Do It? 13:25 How It’s Made 13:50 Fifth Gear 14:15 American Chopper

04:45 05:10 05:35 06:00 06:10 06:35 07:00 07:20 07:45 08:10 09:00 09:25 09:45 10:10 10:35 11:00 11:25 11:45 12:10 12:35 12:55 13:20 13:40 14:05 14:30 14:55 15:15 15:40 16:00 16:25 16:45 17:10 17:35 18:00 18:25 18:45 19:00 19:25 19:50 20:15 20:40 21:05 21:30 21:50 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15 23:35

I Got A Rocket Wizards Of Waverly Place Phineas & Ferb Higglytown Heroes My Friends Tigger and Pooh Handy Manny Special Agent Oso Lazytown Lazytown Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Handy Manny Special Agent Oso Brandy & Mr Whiskers Fairly Odd Parents Hannah Montana I Got A Rocket Wizards Of Waverly Place Phineas & Ferb Suite Life On Deck Replacements American Dragon Kim Possible Famous Five Fairly Odd Parents Phineas & Ferb Replacements I Got A Rocket Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Fairly Odd Parents Phineas & Ferb Suite Life On Deck Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana The Replacements Jonas Suite Life On Deck Wizards Of Waverly Place Sonny With A Chance Hannah Montana The Suite Life of Zack & Cody The Suite Life of Zack & Cody The Replacements American Dragon Kim Possible Famous Five Fairly Odd Parents Phineas & Ferb

E! ENTERTAINMENT 00:15 Streets Of Hollywood 00:40 E!es 01:30 Extreme Hollywood 02:20 Sexiest 03:15 Ths Investigates 05:05 Dr 90210 06:00 Ths 07:45 Style Star 08:35 E! News 09:00 The Daily 10 09:25 Reality Hell 10:15 Ths

Mr. Bean’s Holiday on Show Movies 1

BBC LIFESTYLE 00:05 Ching’s Kitchen 00:30 Masterchef Goes Large 01:20 Cash In The Attic Usa 01:45 Hidden Potential 02:10 Living In The Sun 03:05 What To Eat Now - Autumn 03:35 Ching’s Kitchen 04:00 Masterchef Goes Large 05:05 Cash In The Attic Usa 05:30 Hidden Potential 06:20 Living In The Sun 07:10 10 Years Younger 08:00 Cash In The Attic Usa 08:20 Antiques Roadshow 09:05 Cash In The Attic Usa 09:30 Hidden Potential 09:55 Gary Rhodes’ Local Food Heroes 11:25 Living In The Sun 12:20 Antiques Roadshow 13:10 10 Years Younger 14:00 Gary Rhodes’ Local Food Heroes 15:30 Daily Cooks Challenge 16:30 Cash In The Attic Usa 16:55 Hidden Potential 17:20 Antiques Roadshow 18:10 10 Years Younger 18:55 Living In The Sun 19:45 Daily Cooks Challenge 20:15 Daily Cooks Challenge 20:40 Masterchef Goes Large 21:05 What To Eat Now - Autumn 21:35 Ching’s Kitchen 22:00 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 22:50 The Clothes Show 23:40 What To Eat Now - Autumn

08:25 Chowder 08:50 Best Ed 09:15 Chop Socky Chooks 09:40 Ben 10: Alien Force 10:05 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 10:30 Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Heroes 10:55 Skunk Fu! 11:20 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 11:30 Squirrel Boy 11:55 Robotboy 12:20 Camp Lazlo 12:45 The Powerpuff Girls 13:10 Class of 3000 13:35 Ed, Edd n Eddy 14:00 Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends 14:25 Codename 14:50 Ben 10 15:15 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 15:40 Squirrel Boy 16:05 Eliot Kid 16:35 George of the Jungle 17:00 Skunk Fu! 17:25 Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Heroes 17:50 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 18:15 The Secret Saturdays 18:40 Ben 10: Alien Force 19:05 Casper’s Scare School 19:30 Total Drama Action 20:00 The Marvelous Misadventures of Flapjack 20:25 Chop Socky Chooks 20:50 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 21:05 Ed, Edd n Eddy 21:30 Skunk Fu! 21:45 The Secret Saturdays 22:10 Ben 10: Alien Force 22:35 The Life & Times of Juniper Lee 23:00 Camp Lazlo 23:25 Samurai Jack 23:50 Megas XLR

BBC WORLD 00:00 Bbc World News - U 00:30 Hardtalk - U 01:00 World News Today: Business Edition - U 01:45 Sport Today - U 02:00 Bbc World News - U 02:30 Hardtalk - U 03:00 Bbc World News America - U 04:00 Bbc World News - U

CINEMA CITY 01:00 The Deep End - 18 03:00 Capers - PG15 05:00 Twin Daggers - PG15 07:00 Surviving Evil - PG15 09:00 Satellites and Meteorites PG15 11:00 Hot Shots! - PG 13:00 A Plumm Summer - PG 15:00 War and Peace - Pt.*3* - PG

15:10 16:05 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00

Miami Ink Mythbusters Ultimate Survival Destroyed in Seconds Street Customs 2008 How Do They Do It? How It’s Made Smash Lab Time Warp Mythbusters

DISCOVERY SCIENCE 00:40 Building the Biggest 01:30 SUV Revolution 02:20 Eco-Tech 03:10 Discovery Project Earth 04:00 Beyond Tomorrow 04:50 Sci-Fi Saved My Life 05:45 How Stuff’s Made 06:10 Mean Green Machines 06:40 One Step Beyond 07:10 SUV Revolution 08:00 The Kustomizer 09:00 Sci-Fi Saved My Life 10:00 Sci-Trek 10:55 How Stuff’s Made 11:20 Stunt Junkies 11:50 SUV Revolution 12:45 Mean Green Machines 13:10 One Step Beyond 13:40 Sci-Fi Saved My Life 14:35 Sci-Trek 15:30 What’s That About?

16:25 How Stuff’s Made 16:55 The Kustomizer 17:50 Brainiac 18:45 Building the Biggest 19:40 How It’s Made 20:30 Engineered 21:20 How It’s Made 22:10 Mythbusters 23:00 How It’s Made 23:50 Engineered DISNEY CHANNEL 00:00 My Friends Tigger and Pooh 00:20 Handy Manny 00:45 Special Agent Oso 01:10 Lazytown 02:00 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 02:45 Handy Manny 03:10 Special Agent Oso 03:35 Brandy & Mr Whiskers 04:00 Fairly Odd Parents 04:25 Hannah Montana

11:05 Ths 12:00 E! News 12:25 The Daily 10 12:50 Leave It To Lamas 13:40 E!es 15:25 Behind The Scenes 16:15 E!es 17:10 Kourtney And Khloe Take Miami 18:00 E! News 18:25 The Daily 10 18:50 Streets Of Hollywood 19:15 Battle Of The Hollywood Hotties 19:40 E!es 20:30 Ths 21:20 Perfect Catch 22:10 E! News 22:35 The Daily 10 23:00 Dr 90210 23:50 Battle Of The Hollywood Hotties EXTREME SPORTS 00:00 Strikeforce 01:00 FIM World Supermoto 2008 02:00 Rebel Events 2009: Rock The Goldcoast Ep 9 02:30 Rebel Events 2009: Extreme Playgrounds-Dirt Session Ep10 03:00 Strikeforce 04:00 Mexico X Games 2008 05:00 Ride Guide Snow 2007 06:00 F.I.A European Drag Racing 07:00 FIM World Supermoto 2008 08:00 F.I.A European Drag Racing 09:00 The Sorsa Project 10:00 FIM World Supermoto 2008 11:00 Rebel Events 2009: European Skateboard Champs Ep11 11:30 Rebel Events 2009: Extreme Playgrounds 12:00 F.I.A European Drag Racing 13:00 The Sorsa Project 14:00 Ride Guide Snow 2007 15:00 Rebel Events 2009: European Skateboard Champs Ep11 15:30 Rebel Events 2009: Extreme Playgrounds 16:00 F.I.A European Drag Racing 17:00 The Sorsa Project 18:00 FIM World Supermoto 2008 19:00 Fim World Motocross Championships 2009 20:00 Ride Guide Snow 2007

20:00 Sunshine Barry And The Disco - PG 21:30 Tales Of The River Bank FAM 23:00 The Flash - PG

21:00 The Sorsa Project 22:00 Rebel Events 2009: European Skateboard Champs Ep11 22:30 Rebel Events 2009: Extreme Playgrounds 23:00 Fim World Motocross Championships 2009 FOX SPORTS 02:00 Dream Team Season 8 06:00 Golf Central International 06:30 The Golf Channel - TBA 09:00 Everton TV featuring Arsenal v Everton 12:00 Interliga: Santos v Atlante 14:00 Golf Central International 14:30 Hyundai A League Highlights 15:00 Torneo de Verano Mar Del Plata, Argentina 17:00 Interliga: America v Estudiantes Tecos 19:00 Dream Team Season 8 20:00 NHL: Dallas Stars at Philadelphia Flyers 23:00 Ringside Boxing: Fight Night at the Commerce Los Angeles, CA

SHOW SPORTS 1 01:00 Premier League 03:00 Brazilian League Highlights 03:30 Barclays Premier League Arabic Review 05:00 Premier League 07:00 Portugol 07:30 Brazilian League Highlights 08:00 Premier League 12:00 Goals Goals Goals 12:30 Portugol 13:00 Brazilian League Highlights 13:30 Scottish Premier League Highlights 14:00 Premier League 16:00 Futbol Mundial 16:30 Goals Goals Goals 17:00 Premier League 19:00 Premier League 21:00 Goals Goals Goals 21:30 Barclays Premier League Arabic Review 23:00 Premier League Classics

FRANCE 24 00:00 News And Magazines - U 00:30 The France 24 Interview - U 01:00 News And Magazines - U 21:30 The France 24 Debate - U 22:00 News And Magazines - U MGM 00:55 Miracle Mile 02:20 Hot Under The Collar 03:45 The Hot Spot 05:55 Laws Of Gravity 07:35 The Russians Are Coming 09:40 The Pride And The Passion 11:50 A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum 13:25 Huckleberry Finn 15:20 Ski Patrol 16:55 My American Cousin 18:25 The Lost Brigade 19:50 Nicholas Nickleby 22:00 Kid Galahad 23:35 Triumph Of The Spirit NAT GEO ADVENTURE 00:30 Meet The Natives - Usa 01:30 Culture Shocks 02:30 Destination Extreme 03:00 Madventures 03:30 Surfer’s Journal 04:00 Bondi Rescue 04:30 Destination Extreme 05:00 Madventures 05:30 Departures 06:30 Meet The Natives - Usa 07:30 Culture Shocks 08:30 Destination Extreme 09:00 Madventures 09:30 Surfer’s Journal 10:00 Bondi Rescue 10:30 Destination Extreme 11:00 Madventures 11:30 By Any Means 12:30 Jailed Abroad 13:30 Jailed Abroad 14:30 Destination Extreme 15:00 Madventures 15:30 Surfer’s Journal 16:00 Bondi Rescue 16:30 Destination Extreme 17:00 Madventures 17:30 By Any Means 18:30 Jailed Abroad 19:30 Jailed Abroad 20:30 Destination Extreme 21:00 Madventures 21:30 Surfer’s Journal 22:00 Bondi Rescue 22:30 Destination Extreme 23:00 Madventures 23:30 By Any Means NAT GEO WILD 00:00 Monster Fish Of The Congo 01:00 Ultimate Vipers 02:00 Hunter Hunted 03:00 Caught In The Act 04:00 Insects From Hell 04:30 Snake Wranglers 05:00 Quest For The Megafish Of Amazon 06:00 Monster Fish Of The Congo 07:00 Ultimate Vipers 08:00 Hunter Hunted 09:00 Caught In The Act 10:00 Insects From Hell 10:30 Snake Wranglers 11:00 Gabon: Triumph Of The Wild 12:00 Wild Russia 13:00 Monster Crocs 14:00 Monkey Thieves 14:30 Monkey Thieves 15:00 Caught On Safari 16:00 Insects From Hell 16:30 Snake Wranglers 17:00 Gabon: Triumph Of The Wild 18:00 Wild Russia 19:00 Monster Crocs 20:00 Monkey Thieves 21:00 Caught On Safari 22:00 Insects From Hell 22:30 Snake Wranglers 23:00 Gabon: Triumph Of The Wild ORBIT NEWS 1 00:00 ABC Now Bell/ Good Money LIVE 00:30 ABC NOW Top Line / Inside the Newsroom 01:00 ABC NOW Nature’s Edge (Mon) 01:30 ABC NOW World News Webcast + Daily Download 02:00 ABC Nightline 02:30 ABC World News Live 03:00 NBC Nightly News Live 03:30 ABC World News (Tue) 04:00 NBC Today Show 07:00 NBC Nightly News (Tue) 07:30 ABC Nightline Live 08:00 ABC World News (Tue) 08:30 NBC Nightly News (Tue) 09:00 Newshour with Jim Lehrer 10:00 ABC Nightline 10:30 NBC Nightly News (Tue) 11:00 ABC World News Now Live 12:30 NBC Early Today Live 13:00 ABC America This Morning Live 14:30 NBC Early Today 15:00 NBC Today Show Live 19:00 ABC Now Money Matters / Bell 19:30 ABC NOW / Good Money 20:00 MSNBC Live Dr. NANCY 21:00 MSNBC Live Andrea Mitchell Reports 22:00 PBS Newshour with Jim Lehrer

Ping Pong Playa on Super Movies 23:00 MSNBC Olbermann

Countdown

w/K.

ORBIT NEWS 2 00:00 MSNBC Live 01:00 MSNBC Live Hardball 02:00 MSNBC News Live The Ed Show 03:00 MSNBC (As Live) Hardball 04:00 MSNBC Live Countdown w/K. Olbermann 05:00 MSNBC Live The Rachel Maddow Show 06:00 MSNBC (as live) Countdown w/K. Olbermann 07:00 MSNBC (As Live) The Rachel Maddow Show 08:00 MSNBC (As Live) Hardball 09:00 MSNBC (as live) Countdown w/K. Olbermann 10:00 MSNBC (As Live) The Rachel Maddow Show 11:00 MSNBC (As Live) The Ed Show 12:00 MSNBC (as live) Countdown w/K. Olbermann 13:00 MSNBC First Look (Live) 13:30 MSNBC Way Too Early w/W. Geist (Live) 14:00 MSNBC (taped) Hardball 15:00 MSNBC (taped) The Ed Show 16:00 MSNBC (taped) Countdown w/K. Olbermann 17:00 MSNBC Live Morning Meeting with Dylan Ratigan 18:00 MSNBC Live Morning Meeting with Dylan Ratigan 19:00 MSNBC Live 20:00 MSNBC (taped) Hardball 21:00 MSNBC (taped) Countdown w/K. Olbermann 22:00 MSNBC (taped) The Rachel Maddow Show 23:00 MSNBC Live PLAYHOUSE DISNEY 08:00 Special Agent Oso 08:25 Handy Manny 08:50 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 09:15 Imagination Movers 09:40 Chuggington 10:10 Handy Manny 10:30 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 10:50 Special Agent Oso 11:15 Imagination Movers 11:40 My Friends Tigger and Pooh 12:05 Chuggington 12:20 Chuggington 12:55 Handy Manny 13:05 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 13:30 Little Einsteins 13:50 Imagination Movers 14:10 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 14:30 Little Einsteins 14:55 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 15:20 Jo Jo’s Circus 15:45 Jo Jo’s Circus 16:10 Higglytown Heroes 17:00 Happy Monster Band 17:05 My Friends Tigger and Pooh 17:30 Happy Monster Band 17:35 Handy Manny 18:00 Mickey Mouse Clubhouse 18:25 Special Agent Oso 18:50 Chuggington 19:00 Imagination Movers 19:25 Handy Manny 19:50 Chuggington 20:00 Special Agent Oso 20:15 Little Einsteins 20:40 Handy Manny 20:50 My Friends Tigger and Pooh 21:00 End Of Programming SHOW COMEDY 00:00 Friends 00:30 According To Jim 01:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 01:30 The Colbert Report 02:00 Weeds 02:30 The Inbetweeners 03:00 Home Improvement 03:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 04:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 04:30 The Colbert Report 05:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 05:30 Will And Grace 06:00 Two And A Half Men 06:30 Home Improvement 07:00 Fresh Prince Of Bel Air 07:30 Ellen 08:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 08:30 8 Simple Rules..

09:00 The Nanny

09:30 Malcolm In The Middle 10:00 Will And Grace 10:30 Two And A Half Men 11:00 How I Met Your Mother 11:30 8 Simple Rules..

12:00 Ellen 12:30 The Nanny 13:00 Fresh Prince Of Bel Air 13:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 14:00 Home Improvement 14:30 Malcolm In The Middle 15:00 Friends 15:30 According To Jim 16:00 Ellen 16:30 The Nanny 17:00 Fresh Prince Of Bel Air 17:30 8 Simple Rules..

18:00 Will And Grace 18:30 Two And A Half Men 19:00 How I Met Your Mother 19:30 Malcolm In The Middle 20:00 Friends 20:30 According To Jim 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 21:30 The Colbert Report 22:00 Sit Down, Shut Up 22:30 The Inbetweeners 23:00 South Park 23:30 How I Met Your Mother SHOW MOVIES 1 01:00 Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story - 18 03:00 The Perfect Child - PG 15 05:00 Cloverfield - PG 15 06:30 La Vie En Rose - PG 15 09:00 The Game Plan - PG 11:00 Son Of Rambow - PG 13:00 The Nanny Diaries - PG 15 15:00 The Game Plan - PG 17:00 Son Of Rambow - PG 19:00 Mr. Bean’s Holiday - PG 21:00 Smokin’ Aces - 18 23:00 No Country For Old Men - PG 15 SHOW MOVIES 2 00:30 Cassandra’s Dream - PG 15 02:30 White Palace - 18 04:15 He Was A Quiet Man - PG 15 06:00 The Apostle - PG 15 08:30 When We Were Kings - PG 15 10:00 The Prisoner Of Zenda - PG 12:00 Nicholas Nickleby - PG 15 14:15 The Fox And The Child - FAM 16:00 The Prisoner Of Zenda - PG 18:00 Nicholas Nickleby - PG 15 20:15 The Flying Scotsman - PG 15 22:00 Sunshine Cleaning - PG 15 SHOW MOVIES ACTION 00:00 El Muerto - PG 15 01:30 The Forsaken - 18 03:00 The Blob - 18 05:00 Rock Monster - PG 15 07:00 The Last Winter - PG 15 09:00 Kokoda - PG 15 11:00 Solstice - 18 13:00 Street Fighter - PG 15:00 Kokoda - PG 15 17:00 Solstice - 18 19:00 Copperhead - 18 21:00 In Bruges - 18 23:00 Child’s Play - 18 SHOW MOVIES COMEDY 00:00 What Rats Won’t Do - PG 15 02:00 Pootie Tang - PG 15 04:00 Lars And The Real Girl - PG 15 06:00 Balls Of Fury - PG 15 08:00 Pootie Tang - PG 15 10:00 The Broken Hearts Club - PG 12:00 Hot Rod - PG 15 14:00 Mchale’s Navy - PG 16:00 The Broken Hearts Club - PG 18:00 Hot Rod - PG 15 20:00 The Love Guru - 18 22:00 Mumford - R SHOW MOVIES KIDS 00:15 Hammer Boy - PG 01:45 Yogi’s Great Escape - PG 03:45 Felix 2 - FAM 05:30 Scooby-doo Meets The Boo Brothers - FAM 07:30 Stardust - PG 10:00 Sunshine Barry And The Disco - PG 11:30 Tales Of The River Bank FAM 13:00 Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium - FAM 14:45 The Flash - PG 16:30 Yogi Bear And The Magical Flight Of The Sp - PG 18:15 Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium - FAM

SHOW SPORTS 2 01:30 PGA European Tour Highlights 02:30 Futbol Mundial 03:00 Goals Goals Goals 03:30 Goals On Monday 05:00 Scottish Premier League Highlights 05:30 Premier League Classics 06:00 Gillette World Sport 06:30 Futbol Mundial 07:00 Scottish Premier League Highlights 07:30 Portuguese Liga 09:30 Goals On Monday 11:00 Weber Cup Bowling 12:00 Guinness Premiership 14:00 PGA European Tour Highlights 15:00 Barclays Premier League Highlights 16:00 Int. Pairs World Of Golf 16:30 Futbol Mundial 17:00 Live Snooker Masters 20:30 World Hockey 21:00 Premier League Classics 21:30 Premier League World 22:00 Live Snooker Masters SHOW SPORTS 3 00:30 Goals Goals Goals 01:00 Futbol Mundial 01:30 Weber Cup Bowling 02:30 PGA European Tour 07:00 Snooker Masters 10:30 Gillette World Sport 11:00 PGA European Tour Highlights 12:00 Barclays Premier League Highlights 13:00 Portuguese Liga 15:00 Futbol Mundial 15:30 Premier League Classics 16:30 Gillette World Sport 17:00 Weber Cup Bowling 18:00 Goals On Monday 19:30 European Tour Weekly 20:00 Int.Paris World Of Golf 20:30 Test Cricket Highlights 22:30 Premier League World 23:00 Premier League SHOW SPORTS 4 00:00 UFC Fight Night 02:00 NCAA Basketball 04:00 Live NCAA Basketball 06:15 WWE ECW 07:00 WWE Vintage Collection 08:00 LG Action Sport 09:00 British Triathlon 09:30 NCAA Basketball 11:00 Bushido 12:00 WWE Vintage Collection 13:00 FIA GT 15:00 British Triathlon 15:30 FIM World Cup 16:00 NCAA Basketball 20:00 UFC Unleashed 21:00 UFC - The Ultimate Fighter SUPER COMEDY 00:30 The Jay Leno Show 01:30 Drew Carey Show 02:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 03:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 03:30 Late Night Show With Jimmy Fallon 04:30 Jimmy Kimmel Live 05:30 The Jay Leno Show 06:30 The Simpsons 07:00 Frasier 07:30 Drew Carey Show 08:00 The Tonight Show With Conan O’ Brien 09:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 10:00 Jimmy Kimmel Live 11:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 11:30 Frasier 12:00 The Simpsons 12:30 Drew Carey Show 13:00 The Jay Leno Show 14:00 The Tonight Show With Conan O’ Brien 15:00 Late Night Show With Jimmy Fallon 16:00 The Ellen Degeneres Show 17:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 17:30 Frasier 18:00 Jimmy Kimmel Live 19:00 Notes From The Underbelly 19:30 All Of Us 20:00 The Jay Leno Show 21:00 The Tonight Show With Conan O’ Brien 22:00 Late Night Show With Jimmy Fallon 23:00 Reno 911 23:30 Jimmy Kimmel Live SUPER MOVIES 01:00 Bachelor Party 2: The Last Temptation - 18 03:00 The Brave One - 18 05:00 Bachelor Party 2: The Last Temptation - 18 07:00 Somers Town - PG15 09:00 Skills Like This - PG 11:00 Mongol - PG15 13:00 The Good Witch - PG 15:00 License to Wed - PG 17:00 Ping Pong Playa - PG 19:00 Red Riding: *1983* - 18 21:00 The Bucket List - PG

Star listings (UAE timings) Star Movies 16:00 Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?

16:50 V.I.P. 17:00 Australia’s Next Top Model 18:00 Beauty And The Geek 18:50 Starsky & Hutch 19:00 Cops 19:25 Cops 19:50 V.I.P. 20:00 Australia’s Next Top Model 21:00 Beauty And The Geek 21:50 Starsky & Hutch 22:00 [V] Tunes 23:00 How I Met Your Mother 23:30 NGC Program 00:00 [V] Tunes 01:00 [V] Tunes 02:00 7th Heaven 03:00 American Idol 05:00 Cops

05:25 Cops 05:50 V.I.P. 06:00 Grey’s Anatomy 06:50 One Day At A Time 07:00 Are You Smarter Than A 5th Grader?

07:50 Starsky & Hutch 08:00 Australia’s Next Top Model 09:00 How I Met Your Mother 09:30 The Bold And The Beautiful 10:00 7th Heaven 10:50 One Day At A Time 11:00 Grey’s Anatomy 11:50 Starsky & Hutch 12:00 [V] Tunes 13:00 COPS 14:00 American Idol Granada TV 20:30 Strange But True? (Series 4) 21:00 Nights From Hell

22:00 Emmerdale 22:30 Coronation Street 23:00 Nights From Hell 00:00 Parkinson (Series 6) 01:00 Ballroom Bootcamp 02:00 Romance Wednesday: Cold Feet (Series 2) (Double Bill) 04:00 Vroom Vroom (Series 2) 05:00 Emmerdale 05:30 Coronation Street 06:00 Parkinson (Series 6) 07:00 Ballroom Bootcamp 08:30 Romance Wednesday: Cold Feet (Series 2) (Double Bill) 10:00 Vroom Vroom (Series 2) 11:00 Emmerdale 11:30 Coronation Street 12:00 Parkinson (Series 6) 13:00 Coach Trip (Series 1) * 14:00 Romance Wednesday: Cold Feet (Series 2) (Double Bill)

16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00

Emmerdale Coronation Street Parkinson (Series 6) Coach Trip (Series 1) *

Channel [V] 22:00 [V] Plug 22:30 The Playlist 23:00 Loop 00:00 Backtracks 01:00 Double Shot 02:00 [V] Plug 02:30 The Playlist 03:00 Loop 04:00 [V] Countdown 06:00 Double Shot 07:00 Backtracks 08:00 Loop 09:00 [V] Plug 09:30 Double Shot 10:00 Backtracks

11:00 12:00 12:30 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 21:00

[V] Tunes [V] Plug The Playlist Loop Vanity Lair [V] Tunes Backtracks [V] Tunes [V] Plug The Playlist Loop Vanity Lair [V] Tunes

Fox News 20:00 Happening Now 22:00 The Live Desk 00:00 Studio B with Shepard Smith Live 01:00 Your World with Neil Cavuto 02:00 Glenn Beck with Glenn Beck

03:00 Special Report with Bret Baier 04:00 The FOX Report with Shepard Smith 05:00 The O’Reilly Factor 06:00 Hannity 07:00 On the Record with Greta Van Susteren 08:00 The O’Reilly Factor 09:00 Hannity 10:00 On the Record with Greta Van Susteren 11:00 Glenn Beck with Glenn Beck 12:00 Fox Report 13:00 Special Report with Bret Baier 14:00 The O’Reilly Factor 15:00 FOX & Friends First Live 16:00 FOX & Friends Live 18:00 America’s Newsroom National Geographical Channel 20:00 ABOUT ASIA -ShowReal Asia :

Inside Nirvana 21:00 Adventure Wanted -Climbing Yosemite S1-4 22:00 Blowdown -The Miami Job S1-2 23:00 Carrier -All Hands S1-1 00:00 Situation Critical -Hell On High Water 01:00 ABOUT ASIA -ShowReal Asia : Inside Nirvana 02:00 World’s Deadliest Animals -The Deep S3-4 03:00 Megafish 04:00 Bite Me With Dr. Mike Leahy Brazil 1 05:00 ABOUT ASIA -ShowReal Asia : Inside Nirvana 06:00 Rat Genius 07:00 Adventure Wanted -Climbing Yosemite S1-4 08:00 Situation Critical -Hell On High Water

36

SPECTRUM

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Law to propose to Miller he ‘Alfie’ actor - who first got engaged to ‘Factory Girl’ star Sienna in 2004 - has rekindled his romance with the actress in recent months and is now ready to make her his fiancee again. A source said: “Sienna was always the one. And now she is back in his life he never wants to let her go again. “Jude did some serious thinking over Christmas in Britain with his exwife Sadie and the kids. And he realizes just how important family life is to him. “He needs a good woman to look after him. Sienna’s fed up of the single life and wants to be with Jude for good.” Sienna’s family are he British actress - who is currently starring in London play ‘The Little Dog Laughed’ - finds the obsession with body image over performing quite troubling, because that’s not what acting should be about. The 23-year-old star said: “I was born with two extra fingers. There were no bones in them, just the fingers and the fingernails. And I’ve got a crumpled ear. I was a freakish baby. A bit of an oddball. And I still feel like that now.”

The ‘Quantum of Solace’ star said it was only after graduating from prestigious drama school RADA (Royal Academy for Dramatic Arts) that she realized how unnecessarily stressed she was becoming about how she looked. She said in an interview with The Times newspaper: “On one of the movies, I’d just done this big comedy scene, and all they said was, ‘You need to work on your arms!’ “And I said, ‘What about the acting?’ And they said, ‘Don’t worry about the acting, worry about your arms!’ I just wanted to say, ‘Screw you all! I’d rather do a play!’ “

T

Mel B’s twin wish el B wants to get pregnant with twins this year.

The former Spice Girls singer - who already has two daughters, Phoenix Chi, 10, and two-year-old Angel Iris, from two previous relationships wants to extend her brood in 2010 with husband Stephen Belafonte. She said: “We definitely want to have kids at some point in 2010 or the beginning of 2011, because this year’s going to be pretty busy. Stephen has twins in his family and I would love to have twins. I think there’s something nice about having two babies, and they’re there for each other their whole entire life. That would be ideal for me. But just one healthy baby would be more than fine.

That’s all you can wish for.” Mel who raised Phoenix and Angel alone before she married Stephen in 2007 - believes sharing parental responsibilities has stopped her from being a “super strict” mother. She explained to Britain’s Hello! magazine: “Before Stephen was part of our family, I was super strict, because it was just me being mum and dad all in one. Now, I think I’ve gone a little bit softer because I can. We share the responsibility of raising the kids. So it’s nice to be able to go, ‘Oh Stephen, you tell her about her homework

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today!’ “As parents we’re very routine-based. Bedtime’s at a certain time every night. They have to tidy their rooms. That’s what I grew up with, and I think that gives them responsibility and respect for their things.”

he ‘Gossip Girl’ star has to get intimate in her new movie ‘The Town’ - in which she plays the ex-girlfriend of a gang leader who is trying to turn his back on a life of crime - and admits she was out of her comfort zone when filming it. She said: “I have a sex scene in this film and that’s never comfortable. You think, ‘Oh, this is going to be so awkward.’ But this scene isn’t supposed to be a steamy one - it’s sort of tragic. I’m pretty much crying in it.” The 22-year-old beauty also revealed how she relies on her “gut” instinct when she chooses her roles because otherwise people would be able to convince her to do what they want. She told America’s Esquire magazine: “I surround myself with people I trust, but ultimately it’s my gut.

That’s what I trust. Because I could be swayed any which way - I’m not saying I’m a person who can be swayed easily, but one can be swayed any which way. People will talk to me and something that I’m against at first will then seem like a good idea, but I always end up saying no to that thing.”

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Blake Lively hates shooting sex scenes

Kelly Osbourne hates wearing bikinis he 25-year-old star got super-fit while competing on US TV talent show ‘Dancing with the Stars’, on which she came third, but although she lost a lot of weight training for the program she still isn’t keen on slipping into swimwear on the beach. Kelly - who was photographed last week in a blue bikini - said: “Although I’m still in good shape from doing ‘Dancing with the Stars’ I’m not entirely comfortable being photographed in my swimwear.” Kelly - who was on a family holiday at the Kahala Resort in Hawaii when she was snapped - admits she was upset the paparazzi managed to find her and fiance Luke Worrall on a private beach. She

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revealed in Closer magazine: “Our hotel has a private beach, when means paparazzi can’t get in. But somehow they managed to swim to some rocks to take pictures of me and my family hanging out. I was expecting to put on weight after the show, but I’ve actually lost a few more pounds. I think my metabolism is just faster now.” — BangShowbiz

Simon Cowell is leaving ‘American Idol’

Gemma Arterton was a ‘freaky baby’

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believed to be preparing themselves for a big announcement in the coming weeks. The source added to the Daily Mirror newspaper: “It’s only a matter of time before Jude pops the question. He and Sienna have never been happier together.” Jude and Sienna spent the festive period on the Caribbean island of Barbados together with his three children, Rafferty, Iris and Rudy, from his marriage to Sadie. Last year, Jude became a father for the fourth time after American model Samantha Burke fell pregnant following a brief relationship.

he music mogul announced he is quitting his judging position on ‘American Idol’ and has sealed a $160 million deal to launch a US version of his UK TV talent contest ‘The X Factor’, with Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole tipped to join him on the judging panel. Announcing his plans at a TV Critics Association event in Pasadena, California, he said: “I’m thrilled and excited about this. ‘X Factor’ will launch in 2011, with me judging and producing the show.” The 50-year-old star - who revealed he’d been “offered a lot of money” to stay on ‘American Idol’ the most watched show in the US - is now looking for “the American Susan Boyle”. A TV insider said: “The

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aty Perry has sparked rumors she is pregnant after being seen looking at baby clothes.

The ‘I Kissed A Girl’ singer - who recently announced her engagement to British comic star Russell Brand - took a stroll around some children’s shops in Hampstead, London, on Sunday. A source told The Sun newspaper: “Russell and Katy had a wander around Hampstead. They visited children’s shoe shop Cubs and had a lot of fun checking out all the little bootees.

“They then went to Cafe Rouge for a bit of lunch. Katy ordered scrambled eggs and asked for the eggs to be ‘well done’. And when Russell asked for a portion of chips she loudly announced to the waiter, ‘Hold the mayo’.” Pregnant women are not allowed to eat freshly made mayonnaise because the recipe contains uncooked eggs, which are considered a health risk to unborn babies. Katy, 25, has further fuelled the rumors by posting several cryptic messages on her twitter page.

In a posting on New Year’s Day (01.01.10), she said: “It’s noon on Jan 1st here in the future, let me tell you 2010 is BUMPIN! (sic)” She then wrote to Russell: “I heard ur prego-ed.” She then messaged gossip blogger Perez Hilton, saying: “Boy do I have storrrrries!(sic)”

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Is Katy Perry pregnant?

American show will just take the British ‘X Factor’ formula and give it a few tweaks. We can expect it to be even glitzier than the British version. And the auditions should be a scream! Every singer in the US will want to be part of this show.” Paula Abdul, who quit as an ‘American Idol’ judge last year, is also rumored to be joining the new ‘X Factor’. Louis Walsh - who stars on the British version of ‘X Factor’ alongside the music mogul and Cheryl- is convinced Simon’s new venture will be a roaring success. He said: “I am sure it will be massive. He knows TV better than anyone else and he has an instinct for what people want to watch. I am sure it will be a big hit.”

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Music & Movies

French filmmaker Eric Rohmer dies rench New Wave director Eric Rohmer, known for “My Night at Maud’s,” “Claire’s Knee,” and other films about the intricacies of romantic relationships and the dilemmas of modern love, has died. He was 89. Rohmer, also an influential film critic early in his career, died Monday in Paris, said Les Films du Losange, the production company he co-founded. The cause of death was not immediately given. The directorinternationally known for his films’ long, philosophical conversations-continued to work until recently. His latest film, the 17th-century costume tale “Les amours d’Astree et de Celadon,” (“The Romance of Astree and Celadon”), appeared in 2007. In 2001, Rohmer was awarded a Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for his body of work-dozens of films made over a fivedecade career.

Rohmer’s movies were full of romantic temptation and love triangles, pretty girls and handsome youths. Often they took a lighthearted, chatty form, with serious themes hidden under the surface. French

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President Nicolas Sarkozy paid tribute to a “great auteur who will continue to speak to us and inspire us for years to come.”

“Classic and romantic, wise and iconoclast, light and serious, sentimental and moralist, he created the ‘Rohmer’ style, which will outlive him,” Sarkozy said in a statement.

Six of Rohmer’s films comprised an influential cycle of “moral tales” that addressed the thorny questions of modern love: whether to compromise your beliefs in the face of passion, for example, or how to maintain a sense of individual freedom in a relationship.

In 1969’s “Ma nuit chez Maud” (“My Night at Maud’s”), a churchgoing young engineer played by Jean-Louis Trintignant must choose between a seductive divorcee and a woman who meets his ideals. The film’s screenplay was nominated for an Academy Award. In 1970’s “Le Genou de Claire” (“Claire’s Knee”), a diplomat is overwhelmed by his desire to stroke the knee of a teenage girl he meets.

France’s culture minister, Frederic Mitterrand, said Rohmer’s “very personal,

Photo taken on July 18, 2007 in Paris shows French film director Eric Rohmer who died on Monday at the age of 89. — AFP

very original” movies appealed to cinephiles and ordinary filmgoers alike.

Serge Toubiana-who heads the Cinematheque, France’s famous film preservation societysaid Rohmer worked closely with his crews and described his creative process as a collaborative effort with the actors. “He knew that he needed them and because of that he showered them with love,” Toubiana told France Info radio. “Each film was a kind of shared game, with its own rules in which each person played his role.” Born in 1920 in the central French city of Tulle, Rohmer got his start as a literature professor and a film critic for the influential Cahiers du Cinema magazine, becoming its editor.

Though his name at birth was Maurice Scherer, he created his artistic pseudonym by rearranging the sounds in his first and last name to come up with Rohmer, he told Le Monde newspaper in 2007. As a director, Rohmer became a leading force in France’s convention-smashing New Wave cinema, alongside directors Jean-Luc Godard and Francois Truffaut, his colleagues at the

Cahiers. With Claude Chabrol, another director, Rohmer published a classic study on one of their heroes, Alfred Hitchcock.

Along with his series of moral tales, Rohmer produced a cycle of modern-day relationship fables for each season of the year, and another dubbed the cycle of “comedies and proverbs,” with each film taking its inspiration from a proverb. One popular film in that series was 1983’s “Pauline a la plage” (“Pauline at the Beach”), focusing on a teenager on a seaside holiday. Thierry Fremaux, who runs the Cannes Film Festival, told BFM television that though Rohmer’s films weren’t “trendy,” they were timeless. “He proved that you can make great movies with small budgets,” Fremaux said. “And that’s good to keep in mind in the times we live in.”

Rohmer was a very private person, but his survivors are believed to include his younger brother, philosopher Rene Scherer, and his son journalist Rene Monzat.

Information on funeral arrangements was not immediately available. — AP

Ne-Yo to join Keri Hilson at ESPN Super Bowl bash Webber urges men to get cancer tests he teams haven’t been decided for the NFL football Super Bowl, but the entertainment lineup is already shaping up. ESPN The Magazine said Monday that Ne-Yo and Keri Hilson have been tapped to perform at its annual party on Feb 5. That’s two days before the Super Bowl.

This year’s NFL championship game is in Miami. The party is set for the Fontainebleau Miami Beach hotel.

Rihanna and Justin Bieber have already been announced to perform at the Pepsi Super Bowl Fan Jam on Feb 4. Of course, the big musical event will happen when The Who performs during halftime. — AP

ritish composer Andrew Lloyd Webber is urging men over 50 years-old to get regular tests for prostate cancer after he was successfully treated for the disease last year and given the all-clear. Lloyd Webber, 61, said in a health diary published on his website that he noticed the first symptoms of his cancer last summer and underwent an operation to remove his prostate gland after a biopsy came back positive. He was told the cancer had been caught early and the treatment was successful, but he then battled an underlying e-coli

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Taylor, King announce US dates for reunion tour n the four decades since James Taylor and Carole King helped launch each other’s storied careers, the notion of someday recapturing that magic never completely faded. “Every time we would run into each other at a benefit or at an event ... we’d say we have to get the band back together, get that band back together and do some touring before the chance slips away,” Taylor said in a recent interview.

On Monday, Taylor and King announced dates for the U.S. leg of their much-anticipated “Troubadour Reunion” tour.

The tour, marking the 40th anniversary of the pair’s breakthrough shows, will launch May 7 in Portland, Oregon. As previously announced, the tour will begin overseas in Melbourne, Australia, on March 26.

“In a sense we started our solo careers sharing a band, sharing a stage, we did a show at the Troubadour in Los Angeles that really sort of broke both of us out of the box and established our careers,” Taylor said. King played on Taylor’s 1970 “Sweet Baby James” album and Taylor on King’s 1971 “Tapestry” album. “We started performing, originally she was in my band, and then I increasingly encouraged her to sing her own songs,” said Taylor. “She was used to being a writer, and to having other people do her tunes.” King, in fact, had already written 22 Top 40 hits, including Aretha Franklin’s “(You Make Me

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Feel Like a) Natural Woman.”

“Tapestry,” released in 1971, sold more than 25 million copies worldwide and made King the first woman to win four Grammys in a single year. Taylor, 61, has won five Grammys during his career. Both Taylor and King, 67, are members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. The idea for a reunion tour had been brewing for years, Taylor said.

“Finally, two years ago we played at a sort of anniversary celebration for (the Troubadour), with the original band and that was so great we decided to take it on the road.” The tour will reunite not only Taylor and King, but key members of their original band, including guitarist Danny Kortchmar, drummer Russ Kunkel and bassist Lee Sklar.

While the shows will be at larger venues such as the Hollywood Bowl or Madison Square Garden, the performers hope to recapture at least some of the intimacy of those early Troubadour days, in part by staging the concerts in the round. Taylor said he and King will remain on the stage together throughout the show. “I think we’ll do two sets, both of us will be on stage the whole time, either singing backup for each or playing behind the other. We’ll sort of skip back and forth, do a song of hers, a song of mine, but we’ll stay on the stage,” he said. “It’s just going to be a blast.”— AP

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infection that had been there all along.

“If that infection had been found and cured, I could have been blissfully unaware that I had a cancerous tumor that was on the verge of breaking loose around the rest of my body.

I could have thought that my frequent peeing was due to a weak bladder. I have been bloody lucky,” wrote Lloyd Webber. “I say to every red-blooded male, if you do begin to have a problem down under, however embarrassing, go to your GP at once. Even if you don’t have any symptoms, if

‘Avatar’ among Writers Guild award nominees ames Cameron’s “Avatar” has earned a nomination from the Writers Guild of America in its original screenplay category. It will compete with Scott Neustadter & Michael H Weber’s “(500) Days of Summer,” Jon Lucas & Scott Moore’s “The Hangover,” Mark Boal’s “The Hurt Locker” and Joel Coen & Ethan Coen’s “A Serious Man.” In the adapted screenplay category, the nominees are Scott Cooper’s “Crazy Heart,” Nora Ephron’s “Julie & Julia,” Geoffrey Fletcher’s “Precious,” Roberto Orci & Alex Kurtzman’s “Star Trek” and Jason Reitman and Sheldon Turner’s “Up in the Air.” This year, the WGA nominations don’t necessarily serve as a harbinger of eventual Oscar nominations because several high-profile films in the awards hunt-such as Nick Hornby’s “An Education,” Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” and Tom Ford and David Scearce’s “A Single Man”-were not eligible for consideration as they weren’t filmed under a WGA contract or one of the international guilds. Last year’s WGA winners were Dustin Lance Black’s “Milk” (original) and Simon Beaufoy’s “Slumdog Millionaire” (adapted).

Both also took home the Oscar. — Reuters

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In this film publicity image released by Paramount Pictures, from left, Anton Yelchin as Chekov, Chis Pine as James T Kirk, Simon Pegg as Scotty, Karl Urban as Bones, John Cho as Sulu and Zoe Saldana as Ohura are shown in a scene from, ‘Star Trek.’

In this film publicity image released by Paramount, George Clooney portrays Ryan Bingham in a scene from ‘Up in the Air.’

In this film publicity image released by Summit Entertainment, Jeremy Renner is shown in a scene from, ‘The Hurt Locker.’—AP photos

Seinfeld back to TV with show about marriage ctor and stand-up comic Jerry Seinfeld is headed back to US television with a show about marriage that he says is silly and impossible to explain but aimed at making people laugh. “There is no way here today we are going to be able to explain to you exactly what the show is,” the married star of the hit 1990s show “Seinfeld” told reporters on Sunday. “Our entire drive is to try and make you laugh,” he said, describing “The Marriage Ref” as a combination of reality show, game panel and comedy with no big prizes for its feuding contestant couples.

“The Marriage Ref” will be given a sneak preview on NBC on

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This Nov 27, 2007 file photo shows musicians Carole King, left, and James Taylor chatting after rehearsing, at the Troubadour Tavern in West Hollywood, Calif. — AP

you are over 50 get regular PSA (prostate specific antigen) tests.”

Lloyd Webber, the composer behind hit musicals including “Jesus Christ Superstar,” “Cats” and “Starlight Express,” is staging a sequel to “The Phantom of the Opera” called “Love Never Dies” that is due to open in London in March this year. He has also just kicked off a search for Dorothy to star in his West End production of “The Wizard of Oz” with his search to be the topic of a BBC television talent show. — Reuters

Feb. 28 before starting in its regular Sunday night slot on March 14.

Seinfeld, 55, who has done little TV since “Seinfeld” ended in 1998, is executive producer and will appear in the series as a celebrity panelist. Actors Alec Baldwin, Tina Fey, Eva Longoria and Larry David are among other celebrities who will make an appearance — not fighting with their spouses but helping to decide which spouse should “win” a spat filmed in their own homes.

Stand-up comic Tom Papa will be the “marriage ref” who makes the final decision. Fights already filmed for the show include a husband who enrages his wife by park-

ing a motorcycle in their living room and a couple who argue about whether to have their dead dog stuffed. “They want to end their fight ... and the person who wins has to say to the other ‘You’re right’,” Seinfeld said.

Marriage therapy is definitely not part of the format because “experts are helpful. And that is not our thing. This is a comedy show,” he said. Seinfeld said the idea was inspired by his own experiences with his wife Jessica and those of their friends. “After 10 years of marriage, I have discovered the comedic potential of this subject is quite rich,” he quipped. — Reuters

Boulder film festival to honor Alec Baldwin oulder International Film Festival organizers say actor Alec Baldwin will be the featured guest at the sixth annual event. The festival runs Feb 11-15, and Baldwin is scheduled to receive the festival’s 2010 Award for Excellence in Acting on Feb 14, according to the Daily Camera.

The star of “30 Rock” is co-hosting the Academy Awards in Los Angeles on March 7 with actor Steve Martin. — AP

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Wednesday, January 13, 2010

11 Celebrity Barbies from the past

Fashion Since its introduction in 1959, the Barbie doll has become one of the most recognizable icons in the world. Over the years, the proven appeal of Barbie has sparked many other versions that pay homage to a wide range of popular celebrities, as well as characters from film and television.

Here are some of our real-life favorites!

Heidi Klum Marilyn Monroe The German supermodel, mother of four and host-producer of Project Runway has a Barbie doll, too. Her little doppelganger’s fab glitter print minidress might not be one of Klum’s signature looks (we rarely see her looking like a fembot, after all) but it sure shows off her legs-for-days and signature Breck-girl hair.

In her short-lived career, Marilyn Monroe made and became one of the most famous Hollywood actresses of the 20th century.

Twenty-seven years after her death, her Barbie is the debut doll in the Barbie ‘Blonde Ambition Collection,’ and wears a gown inspired by the infamous white pleated halter dress designed by William Travilla that blew up over a New York City subway grate in The Seven Year Itch.

Joan Jett Starting her career as the founding member of the all-girl LA punk band The Runaways, Joan Jett continues rockin’ the world with her 1980 number-one hit single, ‘I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.’ The consummate tomboy, her Barbie appears with her signature black shag, leather pants, black T-shirt and converse high-tops. Actress Kristen Stewart of Twilight (who also has her own Bella Swan Barbie) will play Jett in an upcoming feature film about The Runaways.

Kimora Lee Simmons

Cyndi Lauper

Founder of the Baby Phat fashion line Kimora Lee Simmons has a Gold Label limited-edition Barbie in her image: Only 12,500 were made.

Her doll is adorned in her signature over-the-top diva bling: a full-length faux chinchilla coat, pink thigh-high boots, a Fendi-like handbag, and a mini version of her adorable black Pomeranian, Zoe. The entrepreneur, who’s Asian-American and African-American, also adds ethnic diversity to the Barbie line-which is a good thing.

Cyndi Lauper

She’s won over audiences around the world with her stunning voice, impish style and quirky Brooklyn humor. We also owe Barbra Streisand thanks for making it easy for girls everywhere-Jewish or not-to see the beauty of a distinctive nose. She is the only living artist to ever receive an Oscar, a Tony, a Grammy, a Golden Globe, a Directors Guild Award, a National Endowment for the Arts Award and a Peabody Award. Talk about accomplishments. Her own Barbie is a big testament to her iconic status and 51 gold albums.

Her hit single and video for ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’ revolutionized MTV in 1985 — and Cyndi Lauper soon became a New Wave feminist anthem. And today, the singer - whose Barbie immortalizes her funky vintage-store look from the era-is still reinventing herself. This year alone she’s appeared on 30 Rock, Gossip Girl, American Idol, Bones, and the MTV Video Music Awards- and her hair was different each time. She’s also a civil rights activist and recently met President Obama at the signing of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr Hate Crimes Prevention Act at the White House. The President declared he was a fan and dubbed her ‘the original.’

Elvis Presley The King of Rock, Elvis Presley, inspired this Jailhouse Rock-outfitted doll that’s technically not a Barbie, but rather a Ken doll.

Edward Cullen and Bella Swan Twilight’s second feature film, New Moon, brought in $140.7 million in its first three days in the theaters. It’s no secret-the Twilight craze is upon us with Twi-Hards eating up swag left and right. From Twilight T-shirts to Twilight makeup, fans and nonfans alike are digging the vamp style.

No wonder, Mattel started producing Twilight dolls. Now, you (or your kids) can play with Edward Cullen and Bella Swan. Jacob Black will be available in February 2010.

For some, a sapphire has not been their best friend he boy brought home a dull-colored half-pound stone he found on the hillside, and his father, Harry Spencer, thought of the perfect place for it. They would use it as a doorstop. The year was 1938, and their home was a modest shack in a sparsely populated, dusty stretch of gem-mining territory in central Queensland, Australia. The stone sat at the foot of the back door for 10 years, until a jeweler recognized its potential and flew it across the Pacific.

In LA, it was polished to reveal a sixpronged, mesmerizingly beautiful star-or so goes the story that is passed down about the largest known star sapphire in the world.

The Black Star of Queensland would make its way around the world, weaving in and out of spotlight and obscurity, with stops in the Smithsonian in the ‘60s, on Cher’s neck in the ‘70s, and at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto in 2007.

It would capture the fantasy of a young boy, who would dream of one day owning it. It would be mounted on white gold and 35 diamonds added around its rim.

Some profess the stone has a certain magic, bringing luck to the fortunate few who have touched it. One owner said it brought on the darkest period of her life, leaving memories

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she never wanted to revisit.

Eventually, as many prized things do, it landed in LA Superior Court, at the center of allegations of deception, unkept promises, and a lover’s betrayal. Harry Kazanjian learned to polish stones because of an eye infection. In about 1908, his family fled to France to escape the persecutions that preceded the Armenian genocide. When they tried to board a ship bound for the US, guards wouldn’t let young Harry on because of his eye. While his family sailed across the Atlantic, Harry stayed behind in Paris and apprenticed for his stone cutter uncle.

Kazanjian discovered he had a knack for envisioning a gemstone in the rough, the way sculptors see a finished work in a slab of marble. When he reunited with his family, he convinced his brother James to go into the gem business with him. The brothers traveled the world buying rare and valuable stones. The Spencer family had sold them many blue and yellow sapphires. One day in 1947, Kazanjian saw a pile of black stones at their home that the Spencers had thought worthless. He asked to inspect them, thinking they might be star sapphires. Spencer told his son to go get the door stop.

In the fist-sized stone, Kazanjian spotted a copper glimmer, a hint of the

impurity that sometimes grows along a sapphire’s crystals to create the star, an optical effect known as an asterism.

He bought it, reportedly for $18,000, and brought it to the shop he ran with his brother in downtown LA. Amid the whirling of grinding wheels and hissing of polishing machines, Kazanjian studied the stone for weeks before laying a hand on it.

Over months, he worked, bent over a copper wheel impregnated with diamond dust, gently carving away to create a dome.

“I could have ruined it a hundred times during the cutting,” Kazanjian told a Los Angeles Times reporter at the time. In 1948, the “Black Star of Queensland” debuted in New York.

Actress Linda Darnell cradled the eggsized stone in her fingers and held it up for the cameras. At 733 carats, it was far larger the Star of India, a 563carat blue star sapphire previously known to be the largest. It was valued at $300,000, but the Kazanjians “declared emphatically” it wasn’t for sale. Michael Kazanjian, Harry’s nephew, spent his summers and weekends as a child at his uncle’s shop, trying to emulate his craft on less valuable gems. He had watched in awe as his uncle polished the Black Star. To him, the stone was like a member of the family. He would occasionally visit

it at the family vault and talk to it, and it would talk back, he said. “The stone had a lovely personality,” said Michael, who took over the family business in the 1970s. “Very dramatic, very powerful.” One day, in 1971, he saw an opportunity to show it off when a Hollywood manager called him with an odd request: “Can you put a few million dollars of jewelry on Cher?” By then, Sonny and Cher had seen their fame ebb. After a failed film venture and lackluster album sales, they were taking a stab at something new: a television variety series. In their premier show, they planned a sketch where Cher would be decked out in valuable gems, and security guards would keep Sonny away as he sang “Close to You.” Cher’s first stop had been Tiffany’s.

But when producers learned insurance would cost $8,000, they looked for another option. Instead of insurance, Michael hired half a dozen police officers to escort him and the Black Star to the studio. The stone was tied on by hand with a flimsy wire to a necklace with about 100 carats of diamonds. A few hours into the taping, he panicked.

Cher had gotten up to dance. Michael jumped up on stage and broke up the scene, fearing the stone would drop and shatter.

After its brief television fame, the stone sat out of public view for the

The ‘Black Star of Queensland’ is among the world’s largest sapphires. —MCT

most part, making only occasional appearances at private charity functions. It has never been worn since.

Jack Armstrong says he was a 5-yearold living in Blair, Neb., when he first laid eyes on the Black Star. That summer, his father, an auditor, took him on a trip to Washington, DC, where the Kazanjians had loaned the stone to the Smithsonian for a display with the Hope Diamond. Armstrong said he breezed past the diamond but became fixated on the sapphire. “It took my breath away,” he said. “It’s like you see your future in front of your eyes.”

In 2002, he was introduced to the Kazanjians and invited to see their collection. When he saw the Black Star, he couldn’t believe he was looking at the stone from his childhood and immediately wanted to buy it.

Armstrong, a former model now in his 50s with no shortage of flamboyance, says he is an artist and a dealer of art and antiques. Attorneys have described him in court papers as a man with no discernible source of income who lived off a wealthy, older girlfriend, a divorcee living in Switzerland. “I’ve never met a personality like him,” said Doug Kazanjian, Michael’s son, who met with Armstrong about the sale. “He had this overwhelming passion to buy it.” —MCT

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

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Rio Winter Fall Fashion

Fashion

Models wear designs of the Maria Bonita Extra collection during the Fashion Rio Fall Winter 2010 in Rio de Janeiro, Monday.

Chloe presents Marcieʼs timeless bag

he Marcie, presented during the Chloe Spring/Summer 2010 collection aspires to be an ‘anti-it bag’: a timeless bag which embellishes with time. Its harmonious allure, clean lines and couture details convey a nomadic spirit; chic and essential.

The Chloe spirit transpires through the choice of fabrics: washed calfskin or precious python in natural and powdered tones. Its rounded volumes are punctuated by strong details: hand-sewn leather cords adorn the front fold, round handles wrapped in leather bands and clean-cut, raw edges. Refined leather cased metallic elements are treated with an aged gold that bring a sophisticated touch.

The natural and casual elegance of the Marcie is available in various sizes, in shoulder bag or hobo versions.

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Models wear designs of Acquastudio collection during the Fashion Rio Fall Winter 2010 in Rio de Janeiro, Monday. —AP photos

www.kuwaittimes.net

Britainʼs Tate unveils mislaid Blake etchings

A man walks past a life-size tiger which is one of the 35 works of Cai Quo-qiang, a China-born artist known for his pyrotechnic displays and gunpowder drawings, currently on display at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum yesterday.

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2010 is the Year of the Tiger, which begins on February 14.

—AFP

ritain’s Tate Gallery unveiled yesterday eight “powerful” etchings by 18th century writer and artist William Blake, which lay undiscovered for decades before turning up at a secondhand book sale. The hand-colored works were inherited by Blake’s widow Catherine after his death in 1827, but they later disappeared for decades until they were found tucked inside a railway

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A handout image obtained yesterday from the Tate press office shows an etching entitled ‘The Fist Book of Urizen, Plate 7’ by 18th century writer and artist William Blake.—AFP

India unveils transsexual talent show ndia’s first talent show for transsexuals was launched on Monday, promising a heady mix of Bollywood stars, glitzy dancing and nervous hopefuls desperate to capture the limelight. One lucky transsexual person or eunuch will be crowned “Indian Super Queen 2010” after battling through two weeks of nationwide auditions and a last round of 12 short-listed finalists. Organizers of the competition hope the prize of one million rupees (22,000 dollars) will help promote awareness of India’s marginalized transsexual and eunuch community.

“We were always the invisibles. We hope the pageant takes us a step forward,” said Laxmi Narayan Tripathi, a transsexual and activist. Transsexuals and eunuchs-men who have been castrated-live on the fringes of Indian society, often resorting to prostitution, begging or menial jobs that leave them mired in poverty. They also attend births as uninvited guests and extract money by threatening to strip or resort to violence. “We want them to portray what is inside them,” said Bollywood actress Celina Jaitley, a former beauty queen and campaigner for sexual minority rights.

“Speech, poise and confidence to work for the community will be important criteria,” she said. Jaitley, fellow actress Zeenat Aman, and superstar Salman Khan are set to be the jury at the televised finals next

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Contestants pose for photographs during a beauty pageant for transgenders in Mumbai, India, Monday. —AP

iep Gies, the woman who hid the Dutch youngster Anne Frank’s diary from the Nazis to become one of the world’s most-read books, has died after a brief illness at the age of 100. The Anne Frank Museum said that Gies, the last surviving helper of Anne and the people who shared her hiding place in an Amsterdam canal side house, died in the town of Hoorn on January 11.

It was Gies who guarded Anne’s memoirs, and presented it to the girl’s father, Otto, when he returned from the Auschwitz concentration camp at the end of World War II-the only one of his family to survive. In her diary, Anne Frank chronicled the details of her teenage life hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam from

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1942 to 1944, when the Nazi secret police discovered her and her family’s hiding place. Anne and her sister later died at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp.

The diary, first published in 1947, became one of the most renowned accounts of Jews hiding from Nazi persecution and has been translated into 70 languages. Until she suffered a stroke a decade ago, Gies travelled around the world, giving lectures about the consequences of intolerance and antiSemitism, according to the Anne Frank museum. “Anne Frank expressed a great wish to live on after her death. Miep Gies saw it as her duty to help in making this happen,” it said in a statement.

Born Hermine (Miep)

TV company seeking volunteer to be mummified British TV company says a terminally ill patient is being sought to donate their body to be mummified as part of a documentary on the ancient Egyptian embalming process. A Channel 4 spokesman said Monday that Fulcrum TV, an independent production company, has produced ads seeking such an individual to be mummified after death.

The spokesman said Fulcrum is working with unidentified scientists to research the embalming procedure. The spokesman says Channel 4 has given Fulcrum TV some funding for the project and that the station may air a program if a donor is found.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity in line with company policy.

Fulcrum TV referred all questions about these plans to Channel 4. —AP

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Actor Jackie Chan attends the unveiling of his wax figure held at Madame Tussauds in West Hollywood, on January 11, 2010. —AFP

Miep Gies

Woman who saved Anne Frank’s diary dead at 100

Santruschitz in Vienna in 1909, Gies moved to the Netherlands at age 11.

In 1933, she began working for Otto Frank at his Opekta trading company. At great risk to her own safety, she and four other helpers brought food and supplies to the Frank family and other individuals hiding in a

secret annex of Opekta’s office building for more than two years.

When she turned 100, Gies sought to play down her own role. “I’m not a hero,” she said. “It wasn’t something I planned in advance, I simply did what I could to help.”

She suffered a stroke at the age of 89 which seriously affected her speech and writing, and forced her to stop her activities. On her 90th birthday, she bought a house with a garden in Hoorn in the west of the country, where she lived out the last years of her life. She celebrated her 100th birthday on February 15, last year. “Right until the end, Miep remained deeply involved with the remembrance of Anne Frank and spreading the message of her story,” the museum statement said. —AFP

month. Last year, India’s eunuchs and transsexuals won a longstanding demand to be listed as “others,” distinct from males and females, on electoral rolls and voter identity cards. — AFP

Indian Bollywood actress Celina Jeitley (L), along with transsexual activist Laxminarayan Narayan Tripathi, addresses a news conference in Mumbai on January 11, 2010. —AFP

timetable in a box of books. “Blake’s work is rarely available for purchase, making a recent discovery like this all the more remarkable,” said the Tate, announcing it had bought the pictures for 441,000 pounds (710,000 dollars, 490,000 euros).

Tate director Nicholas Serota added: “This was an extraordinary find, and I am delighted we have been able to acquire it for the nation. “Blake has always been central to our historic collection of British art here at Tate, and these beautiful etchings will help us represent the amazing diversity of his work,” he added. Stephen Deuchar, head of the Art Fund which contributed to buying them, said: “These powerful etchings reveal the immense technical skill of William Blake, as well as his legendary imaginative range, and the story behind their discovery makes this acquisition all the more exciting.”

The works will go on public display at Tate Britain in July, and will travel to the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Art in Moscow in November 2011 for the exhibition William Blake and British Visionary Art. The owner who sold the etchings to the Tate has asked to remain anonymous.—AFP

Yale asks dismissal of lawsuit over Peru artifacts ale University asked a court to dismiss a lawsuit

by Peru seeking the return of thousands of artifacts from the famed Machu Picchu site, saying the claims were filed years too late. Peru rejects the argument, saying Yale never owned the Incan artifacts that were taken from the South American nation nearly a century ago. Yale filed court papers Friday arguing that the Peru’s lawsuit, filed in December 2008, should be dismissed because of a three-year statute of limitations under Connecticut law. Peru argues that under its own law, its claims are not subject to a statute of limitations. The artifacts were gathered by a Yale scholar, Hiram Bingham III, between 1911 and 1915.

Yale says it returned dozens of boxes of artifacts in 1921 and that Peru knew it would retain other artifacts. “In the twentyfirst century, long after everyone with any personal memory of the expeditions had died, Peru claimed that Yale had not returned enough of the artifacts,” Yale’s attorneys wrote. But Peru says objects of “immense cultural and historical importance” were never returned and says the trove included human remains, objects in bronze and gold, utensils, ceramics and art objects. Yale describes the artifacts as “primarily fragments of ceramic, metal and bone.” In 2007, the two sides had agreed to give Peru legal title to the pieces, which were to travel in a joint exhibit and then return to a museum and research center in the ancient Incan capital of Cuzco. Yale would have funded

Bingham permission to remove the artifacts, but retaining ownership and reserving the right to request their return. It argues that Yale knowingly violated UN cultural property agreements by refusing to return them.

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A classic Cusco-style Inca jar.

A Bronze knife pendant. the exhibit and partially funded the museum.

The university said it had promised to return all “museum quality objects” along with a “significant portion of the research materials.” But Peru backed out of the deal because of a dispute over how many artifacts were to be returned. The Peru claim cites century-old government documents granting

This September 2007 photo released by Yale University shows an Inca artifact of a bone shawl pin adorned with two birds, photographed in New Haven, Conn. —AP Bingham is commonly credited with rediscovering Machu Picchu centuries after the Incan empire abandoned it during the Spanish conquest. The spectacular ruins, perched on an Andean mountaintop, are Peru’s top tourist destination. In recent years, versions suggesting that other foreign and local explorers beat Bingham to the site have gained currency among Peruvian historians.—AP