11 Jul

ON IP TI SC R SU B

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

Bangladeshi American congressman slams profiling

Expats lament frustrating bureaucratic processes

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150 FILS

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Atlantis docks at space station for last time

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www.kuwaittimes.net

Alonso wins dramatic British Grand Prix

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Syria opens ‘dialogue’ with opposition absent

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NO: 15146

SHAABAN 10, 1432 AH

Vice president calls for transition to democracy

Information minister quits KUWAIT: Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Ali AlRashed said yesterday Minister of Information and Communications Sami Al-Nisf had tendered his resignation. Minister of Electricity and Water Salem AlUthayna will replace Al-Nisf, Al-Rashed said. He told KUNA that Al-Nisf had resigned due to “emergency health reasons”. — KUNA

Maids become battleground in Saudi Arabia RIYADH: The standoff between the Saudi Arabian and Indonesian governments over the treatment of Indonesia’s domestic workers has put both potential housemaids desperate for work and Saudi households desperate for help between a rock and a hard place.

Indonesia has increasingly been critical of Saudis’ treatment of its workers as a steady stream of reports of housemaid abuse, and in some cases slayings, reached Indonesian authorities. Relations between the two countries reached a low point when Saudi Arabia beheaded an Indonesian maid on June 18 following her conviction for the murder of her employer. Saudi Arabia failed to notify the Indonesian ambassador in Riyadh.

Indonesia responded by issuing a moratorium on sending workers to the kingdom effective Aug 1. Not to be outdone, Saudi Arabia slapped a ban on issuing Continued on Page 13

HISTORIC DOUBLE: Mohammad Alazemi of Kuwait reacts after finishing the menís 800 m final at the 2011 Asian Athletics Championships in Kobe yesterday. Alazemi became the only athlete to win both the 800 m and 1,500 m at the same Asian championships when he won the 800 m in 1:46.14. “I’m very pleased because the conditions were tough and there were a lot of strong rivals,” said Alazemi, who raced his first 1,500. (Inset) Yaqoub Al-Youha of Kuwait falters during the men’s 110m hurdles heat 2 yesterday. Youha did not finish. — AFP

Max 46º Min 33º Low Tide 00:59 & 14:50 High Tide 07:10: 21:31

DAMASCUS: Syria opened a “national dialogue” yesterday that it hailed as a step towards multi-party democracy after five decades of Baath party rule, but its credibility was undermined by an opposition boycott. The foreign ministry, meanwhile, called in the French and US ambassadors to deliver a “strong protest” over their visit to the flashpoint central city of Hama last week, the state news agency SANA said. Some 200 delegates taking part in the dialogue, including independent MPs and members of the Baath party, in power since 1963, observed a minute’s silence in memory of the “martyrs” before the playing of the national anthem.

But opposition figures boycotted the meeting in protest at the government’s continued deadly crackdown on unprecedented protests that erupted in midMarch against President Bashar Al-Assad’s rule. “We are going to hold a comprehensive national dialogue during which we will announce Syria’s transition towards a multi-party democratic state in which everyone will be equal and able to participate in the building of the nation’s future,” Vice President Farouq Al-Sharaa said in his opening address. “This dialogue is beginning at an awkward moment and in a climate of suspicion... and there are many obstacles, some natural and some manufactured, to a transition towards another point,” Sharaa said. “This dialogue is not a concession by the government to the people but an obligation for every citizen.”

Sharaa said that within a week the interior ministry would implement a government decision to “remove all obstacles to any citizen returning to Syria or travelling abroad”. “Circumstances have prevented the full implementation of several laws promulgated recently, including that ending the state of emergency,” in force for five decades, the vice president said. “We need to get out of this vicious circle... and organising demonstrations without prior approval is leading to unjustified violence,” he said. “We need to recognise, however, that without the sacrifices made by the Syrian people who have shed Continued on Page 13

Al-Jazeera journalists face threats

FATEHPUR, India: Rescuers comb through the wreckage of the Kalka Mail passenger train which derailed near this town in Uttar Pradesh state yesterday. — AP

35 dead as train derails in India LUCKNOW, India: A packed passenger train travelling at full speed derailed in northern India yesterday, killing at least 35 people and leaving up to 100 injured after carriages were thrown off the tracks. Some of the 15 derailed carriages were left stacked on top of each other, as rescue teams worked to free people trapped inside the train in Uttar Pradesh state, 150 km south of Lucknow city. “At

least 35 people are dead and 100 injured are being treated at the scene and in hospital,” K N Joshi, the local district chief medical officer, told AFP. “I have seen a number of people still lying inside the coaches.”

The Press Trust of India news agency said the driver was among the injured and that local people had rushed to the Continued on Page 13

DOHA: Al-Jazeera satellite news channel yesterday condemned what it called a campaign of threats against its journalists because of its coverage of uprisings in the Arab world. “Al-Jazeera presenters have been the targets of a campaign of threats, with in some cases their own safety and that of family members being threatened,” the Dohabased channel said in a statement. The campaign “is aimed at influencing Al-Jazeera’s coverage of the uprisings and protests that have swept many Arab countries,” it said. “Al-Jazeera now knows the source of these threats which convey nothing but the moral bankruptcy of those behind them,” it added. The statement did not name the source but said it was planning legal action.

However, a source at the broadcaster said the threats emanated from Syria, which has been rocked by protests calling for the ouster of President Bashar Al-Assad since mid-March. “I began receiving emails swamped with curses and threats nearly three weeks ago,” Tunisian presenter Laila al-Shayeb told AFP. Shayeb, who presents AlJazeera’s daily evening program “Hassad Al-Yawm” (the day’s harvest), said the last email she received on Saturday carried a direct death threat. “Look into the camera in front of you and behind it you will find a machete preparing to harvest your brain and decorate the walls with it,” she said.

Continued on Page 13

Ahmadinejad calls to keep co-ed colleges TEHRAN: Iran’s political power struggles have brought no shortage of cutthroat intrigue with careers ruined, government officials arrested and even accusations of black magic. And now this - firebrand President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad as the voice of liberal dissent. That’s the latest twist in the showdown between Ahmadinejad and Iran’s ruling clerics. Ahmadinejad - reviled by the opposition as a figurehead of hardline rule - is now temporarily in the reformists’ corner by opposing plans to segregate male and female students at Iranian universities. “It is necessary to swift-

ly prevent these backward, shallow-minded actions,” Ahmadinejad wrote in an order earlier this week addressed to members of his Cabinet.

It also nudged the political dramas further into territory that’s surprising even by Iran’s roughneck standards, where potshots and bitter quarrels are common fare in parliament and elsewhere. This time, the battle is Ahmadinejad versus the theocracy that once backed him.

For months, the ruling Islamic system has increasingly chipped away at Ahmadinejad’s power base.

Continued on Page 13

TEHRAN: In this Dec 7, 2003 file photo, female and male students attend a gathering to mark Student Day at the Tehran University campus. — AP

LONDON: News of the World Editor Colin Myler poses with a front page of the last edition as he leads his staff out of the headquarters of publisher News International late Saturday. — AFP

News of the World prints final edition Murdoch flies into Britain LONDON: Media baron Rupert Murdoch flew into London yesterday to take personal charge of the phone-hacking scandal that felled his News of the World tabloid, as Britons rushed to buy the final edition of the paper. Reading a copy of the last edition of Britain’s biggest-selling weekly, Murdoch was whisked into the headquarters of publisher News International, which produced News of the World, in a chauffeur driven car. The 80-year-old flew in from the United States amid a growing crisis in his media empire after a slew of new hacking allegations emerged this week which sparked national outrage and prompted the shock decision to axe the paper.

The scandal has intensified pressure on the bid by his News Corp media empire to take full control of satellite broadcaster BSkyB, and there were fresh calls for a delay to the proposed deal as Murdoch arrived. The News of the World hit the newsstands for the last time yesterday, ending 168 years of scoops and scandal with the headline “ Thank You and Goodbye” and an apology for having “lost our way”. Staff gathered outside the building in an emotional scene, at which editor Colin Myler paid tribute to a “wonderful

team of people”.

But the closure of the paper looked unlikely to end the hacking row, and as Murdoch arrived in London there was fresh pressure for a postponement to the BSkyB takeover. Opposition Labour party leader Ed Miliband said the public would not accept that a group which engaged in “terrible practices” be allowed to take over BSkyB while a police investigation was still ongoing. He threatened to force a vote in parliament on suspending consideration of the proposed takeover until the criminal probe into hacking is complete.

The deal must be delayed following the “disgusting revelations” about the “terrible practices” at the News of the World, he said. The idea that News Corp “should be allowed to take over BSkyB, to get that 100 percent stake, without the criminal investigation having been completed... frankly that just won’t wash with the public,” he told BBC television. News Corp’s bid to buy the 61 percent of BSkyB that it did not already own originally looked set to go through in the coming days, but the government has now suggested that it could be delayed for several months amid the furore.

Continued on Page 13

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

LOCAL

KU staff angry at minister’s decision Increasing the number of students

By Hussain Al-Qatari KUWAIT: Kuwait University staff are reportedly deeply disappointed at Education Minister Ahmad Al-Mulaifi’s decision to increase the number of new student places available there for the upcoming academic year to 8,000, and angry at his use of what they see as blackmail to force them to accept the increased student numbers. Speaking on condition of anonymity, one KU academic condemned the minister’s declaration during a recent meeting with faculty members that those who would not accept the increased student number should submit their resignation. “The [university’s] higher council members said it was a direct threat,” said the academic.

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah receiving President of the State Audit Bureau Abdulaziz Yousif Al-Adsani at Seif Palace yesterday.

MSAL undersecretary questioned over incompetence, laxity KUWAIT: The Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) has launched an investigation into a senior MSAL official accused by the State Audit Bureau in a recent report of incompetence and laxity, which the report states have negatively affected work in the department he heads.

According to a ministry insider, the official in question, an undersecretary in one of the MSAL’s most important department, is facing questioning over his failure to improve his department’s consistently poor performance.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the insider accused the undersecretary in question of “stalling” in providing answers to investigators’ questions over his management of the department and even of demanding that those investigating him be replaced.

Amongst the shortcomings cited in the SAB report was the introduction of a computerized system at the department supervised by the undersecretary, which was supposed to take four months, but ended up taking over five years. —Al-Qabas

“The minister doesn’t seem to be aware of the fact that increasing the number of students without considering the current situation is a big, costly mistake.”

University officials have warned against increasing student numbers, especially since the university already faces difficulties in coping with the current numbers of students unable to graduate due to the limited number of classes available per semester. This is due to the university’s recently introduced segregation policy, which forces each of the university’s departments to offer separate classes at different times for male and female students.

“The segregation policy is exhausting for the university’s budget,” protested another KU fac-

ulty member. “In previous years we faced a big problem because there were instances in which students were unable to register in a certain class due to the fact that their numbers didn’t meet the required minimum to start a class.”

The academic added that many faculties will simply be unable to house such a large number of students, especially since there aren’t enough classrooms and labs in some faculties, nor enough professors for certain majors and courses.

The faculty member explained that while the pressure on Kuwait University is justified due to the fact that it is the country’s only state university, it remains unacceptable to make

rash decisions that affect the quality of education: “We expected the minister to come with solutions for the problems we face today, and help to make Kuwait University a better place,” said the disgruntled academic. “Instead he made a populous decision which will presumably guarantee him votes if he runs for elections next time. Meanwhile the future of the young goes down the drain.”

According to media reports, a number of staff at Kuwait University have been voicing concern about the deteriorating atmosphere at the university in recent months. Among the principal complaints are nepotism and bureaucracy, which are both felt to strongly influence the appointment of faculty members.

Al-Haroun sworn in as planning, development minister

Abdulwahab Al-Haroun

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Sabah yesterday received Abdulwahab AlHaroun, after the latter was sworn in as State Minister for Planning and Development Affairs.

The meeting at Seif Palace was attended by Their Highnesses the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser AlMohammed Al-Sabah, who accompanied the newly sworn-in minister.

Also present during the swearing-in ceremony were Amiri Diwan Advisor, Dr. Adel Al-Tabtabaie, State Minister for Cabinet Affairs Ali Al-Rashid, Amiri Diwan Secretary, Ibrahim Al-Shatti, Secretary General of the Cabinet Abdullatif Al-Rawdhan and Deputy Director of HH the Amir’s Office Ahmad Al-Suleiman. —KUNA

KUWAIT: Captain Khalifa Al-Rashid, special consultant of the Yousef Al-Kandari, general supervisor of the KSSC’s Sea Heritage committee, is honored.

KSSC’s sea heritage committee, is presented with an award.

No worries over Ramadan power, water supplies, vows MEW KUWAIT: The Ministry of Electricity and Water has taken steps to secure adequate supplies of water and power during the holy month of Ramadan next month, when temperatures in the country are expected to reach their highest levels.

With power and water consumption rates reaching their highest levels during Kuwait’s scorching summer heat, which is at its worst between July and August, the advent of Ramada, which begins at the start of August this year, and the simultaneous return of many Kuwaitis from their summer holidays, are expected to put further pressure on the country’s already strained power and water supplies. Public concern over the MEW’s ability to cope with the additional pressure has been increasing, especially given the ministry’s failure to do so in recent years.

One ministry insider indicated, however, that the recently appointed

Minister of Electricity and Water Salem Al-Othaina has put measures in place to ensure that the country will have sufficient water and power supplies to meet demand and that there will be no blackouts due to shortages. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the MEW insider said that work is currently underway to overcome problems in the distribution network to ensure a summer free of the power cuts that have dogged the country in previous years.

A report in one local paper cited the MEW’s Assistant Undersecretary for Water Operations and Maintenance, Abdulkhaliq Murad, as stating that the country’s desalination plants will be operating at full capacity to meet the increased demand during the period.

Meanwhile, the MEW is expected to further boost its electricity production levels with the scheduled opening of the South Zoor power plant later this month. —Al-Rai

Al-Ghanim presents a commemorative plaque to Al-Abdulkarim as a gift from the KSSC.

A group photo following the awarding ceremony of the winning ship captains along with the guests.

KSSC honors Riqqa Race winners KUWAIT: The Kuwait Sea Sports Club (KSSC) yesterday held a celebration to honor the winners of the 18th annual Riqqa Sea Battle Race which took place on Saturday under the patronage of Kuwait Air ways CEO Ahmad Al-Falah at the KSSC headquarters in Salmiya.

The event was attended on Al-Falah’s behalf by the airline’s Deputy Public Relations Manager Yousef Al-Abdulkarim, as well as senior KSSC officials including the club’s acting president Ahmad Al-Ghanim, its Secretary General Khalid Al-Foudari and the head of the Sea Heritage Committee

which organizes the annual race and the later pearl-diving expedition, Ali Al-Qabandi.

In their speeches marking the occasion, Al-Qabandi and Al-Abdulkarim stressed the historical significance of the two annual traditional events, before overseeing the presentation of awards to the race-winners.

KUWAIT: On behalf of the Information Minister Sami Al-Nisf, the Acting Undersecretary Nasser Al-Saffar yesterday inaugurated the new News Studio 300 at the news and political programs sector of the Kuwait Television. Speaking on the occasion, Al-Saffar said that the new studio was a giant leap forward in news making and reporting business. —- Photos by Fouad Al-Shaikh

73 people to be granted citizenship KUWAIT: The Public Administration for Nationality and Passports will star t receiving today 73 naturali z e d p e o p l e’s s o n s a s p e r A m i r i Decree No 188/2011, the Ac ting Director General of the administration, Col Abdulrahman Al-Haqqan said yesterday.

Al-Haqqan said in a press release that those included in the Amiri Decree will be granted citizenship

immediately, particularly after providing all necessary documents.

The official noted that such step comes to ease restrictions and take necessary measures to all citizenship applicants, which comes after an initiative from the higher command in the interior ministry represented by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Ahmad Al-Humoud AlJaber Al-Sabah. —KUNA

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

LOCAL kuwait digest

Tough call for KU

Expats lament frustrating bureaucratic processes Kuwait ministries: ‘Come back tomorrow’

By Chidi Emmanuel

By Dr Wael Al-Hasawi

I

find myself undecided on whether to agree or disagree with increasing the enrollment cap at the Kuwait University.

When the university asserts that its facilities are incapable of handling more than 6,850 new students next year, the KU administration cannot be blamed when we consider the fact that the KU has seen minimal structural improvements since its opening in 1966, combined with the fact that student numbers there have soared, from 418 in the first year to nearly 20,000 studying in 12 faculties now.

A friend of mine who is a lecturer at one KU faculty explained to me once how he had to take home 270 test papers which needed to be marked, because he had too much work pressure to be able to finish that job during his working hours.

In the meantime, official statistics show that the average number of students in one class has reached 70, which will, of course, negatively affect the educational results.

On the other hand, we must not ignore the predicament created by the fact that the government has been depending on a single state university to provide further education to all high school graduates for more than 45 years.

Nearly 35,000 pupils graduated from Kuwait’s high schools this year. Competition will therefore be fierce for each of KU’s 8,000 places, as well as for the 1,200 overseas scholarships and the 2,250 domestic scholarships, with those who fail to attain any of these places having to either pursue a diploma course with the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, or study at private universities in Kuwait or overseas at their own expense.

None of the previous higher education ministers built new universities or allowed the PAAET to offer Bachelor’s degrees, therefore it’s not fair to criticize the current minister alone for his insistence on increasing the KU’s enrollment cap.

I agree that the issue needs tough decisions in order to come up with effective solutions. At the same time, I don’t agree with forcing an educational facility to take orders for political reasons.

The KU and PAAET have been able to overcome obstacles and maintain their strong academic levels, so it’s important that the solutions put in place to any problems wouldn’t leave a negative impact in this area. — Al-Rai

PAAAFR complains about land mismanagement KUWAIT: The Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources demanded answers from the Kuwait Municipality, after they learned that the Kuwait Oil Company objected building any construction at a piece of land which they obtained.

The municipality provided a location in Sulabiya for the PAAAFR to build a veterinary quarantine for infected animals, which also includes a morgue and incinerator. The projects comes as part of the development plan, and its fund has already been allocated in the PAAAFR’s 2011/2012 budget.

According to a letter they sent to the municipality, the PAAAFR indicated that they were notified about the KOC’s disapproval of the location’s utilization, after they made an inquiry about the subject since this issue was never clarified when they obtained the property. —Al-Qabas

‘Kuwait has 2.5% share of global oil market’ KUWAIT: Kuwait’s current share of the global oil market is approximately 2.5 percent of the total, according to recently appointed oil minister Mohammad AlBusairi.

The minister revealed the figure in a response to parliamentary questions put forward by MP Dr. Mohammad Al-Huwaila concerning the Kuwait National Petroleum Company’s (KNPC’s) efforts to “augment national income and ensure the quality of [KNPC’s] products on the local and global markets.”

KNPC has adopted a developmental policy to regularly seek out new profit opportunities at its refineries, through strategies which include increasing the production of highpriced light material and reducing the production of low-earning heavy products, the minister explained.

In his response to the MP’s inquiry, Al-Busairi also referred to the planned fourth refinery and the clean fuel projects, which he said would produce high quality oil derivatives that will provide enough fuel to operate the country’s water desalination and electricity generating facilities, as well as meeting the global demand for products that meet international standards. — Al-Qabas

KUWAIT: “ They are always busy doing nothing,” thundered Abdul Hassan, a Syrian expatriate at the Kuwait Ministry of Electricity and Water office in South Surra. As you walk into any Kuwait government establishments, you will be welcomed by stony faces waiting anxiously and seething with anger and frustration. “I have been coming here for the past four days now, just to cancel my electricity contract and collect my KD125 insurance deposit.

I moved to another apartment in Salmiya, of which, I have to cancel the electricity contract at my former place. This has taken me more than two weeks,” Hassan said in dismay.

“First, I was instructed to go to my former area (Riggae) after which they finally referred me to the head office, claiming that they didn’t have money to pay,” he continued. “On reaching the head office, I was sent from one office to another. As if that weren’t enough, I have just been referred to the Central Bank in Kuwait City - can you imagine that?”

Hassan’s story was echoed by most of the people interviewed by the Kuwait Times for this article.

Buttressing Hassan’s point, Kamal A M, an Indian expat, said “The most annoying part is they will always tell you to come back tomorrow. They don’t care even if that means risking your job. Whereas some of the women [staff ] are always busy chatting on the phone, their male counterpart will be moving up and down pretending to be busy. I think they do these things on purpose - just to frustrate the expatriates.”

Another Indian expatriate was equally frustrated: “I was told to go upstairs, to Room 3. When I got there, the staff there sent me back to the ground floor. They keep pushing you up and down - and when it is close to 12 noon they will tell you, ‘Come back tomorrow,’ said the man, speaking on condition of anonymity.

At the vehicle registration department in Hawally, there was a huge crowd of people scrambling to process their papers. Saad (who pre-

KUWAIT: Photo shows expatriates anxiously waiting to have their papers processed at the Hawally Traffic department yesterday. ferred to go by one name fearing they are working at here.”

At Sabah Hospital, Mohammed H, possible repercussions) said, “I think they [ministry staff ] take delight in an Egyptian expat, questioned why seeing people suffer in the name of he should be forced to have a medofficial bureaucracy. Even with this ical every year when he renews his crowd [indicating the people queu- residence. “I have been here for three ing to get their vehicle registration years now. Even though I have not renewed], you can see some of them travelled to Egypt since then, they [ministry staff ] chatting and smiling still check my blood every year. It is on the phone. I was here in the more frustrating now because I have morning; they told me to come back to wait for more than two weeks for in the evening and now they are the results to come out.”

All the Kuwait Times’ efforts to telling us to come back tomorrow.”

At the government hospitals, the contact any officials at the ministries story is the same. This reporter saw in question proved fruitless. One patients waiting patiently at staff member at the Ministry of Farwaniya Hospital to be attended Electricity and Water who spoke on to. “See my number [showing a condition of anonymity told Kuwait token number 86] and see the num- Times “We are in the ministry, we ber on the screen (21),” said Rabui know the rules and all the regulaHakkem, one of the waiting patients. tions must be followed to the last “I think I’ll have to wait for the whole dot. It’s either you wait or you leave day to see a doctor at the snail’s pace or you come back [later].”

Kuwait, Egypt discuss technical cooperation KUWAIT: A senior Ministr y of Interior (MoI) security official met yesterday with a visiting Egyptian militar y delegation to discuss means of promoting joint cooperation between the two nations in the area of providing technical training

for maintenance and repair of the Kuwaiti Coastguard’s fleet of vessels. During the meeting with the Egyptian delegation which was headed by Admiral Osama Rabi’a, the Commander of the Alexandria Naval Base, Major General Sheikh

Mohammed Al-Yousef Al-Sabah, the MoI’s Assistant Undersecretary for Border Security, stressed the great depth of maritime military cooperation and the strong brotherly relations between the two countries. —KUNA

MoI creates summer security plan KUWAIT: A senior Ministry of Interior (MoI) official announced yesterday that the ministr y has put in place a security plan for the summer period.

Col Bader Al-Mulla, the director of the MoI’s Public Relations, Moral Guidance and Security Media department, explained that the ministry has taken all the necessary measures to provide security arrangements Col. Bader Al-Mulla for the summer vacation period, providing mobile and static security measures and enabling the public to easily contact the operations room to lodge complaints. The ministry’s departments, including the Criminal Investigation Department and the police, are all working closely together on identifying and dealing with security problems across Kuwait.

Col Al-Mulla also emphasized the importance for the public of not leaving valuables in their homes whilst they are on holiday in order not to attract burglars, and of remembering to turn off the electricity and water supply to their homes during their absence.

He also stressed the need to secure all windows and doors to thwart the efforts of would-be burglars.

The senior MoI official also stressed the importance for holidaymakers of shunning negative and morally reprehensible behavior and of conducting oneself in a morally upright and responsible manner, adding that this is equally important for both citizens and expatriate residents.

Col Al-Mulla said that his department’s media strategy is based on a combination of goals and will use various programs and activities, which will be publicized using a multimedia platform, including SMS services. The MoI official revealed that a number of awareness campaigns are to be launched on various subjects, covering issues which could mar holidaymakers’ enjoyment of their vacations. This behavior includes harassing women in public areas, parks and malls. He added that the customs department will be conducting stringent checks of travelers’ documents, passports, etc prior to their departure.

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

LOCAL

News

in brief

Catalog of misdemeanors at DGCA KUWAIT: The State Audit Bureau (SAB) has reportedly uncovered a sizeable catalog of misdemeanors at the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, with its latest report stating that the chaotic and slipshod approach adopted by many DGCA staff has led to numerous violations of both finance ministry and Civil Service Commission regulations. One SAB insider said that this was hardly a new discovery at the DGCA, which has been reprimanded many times over financial and administrative misconduct, but has taken no action over any of the complaints.

The insider said that in the latest report, the violations committed by the DGCA include the appointment of staff who do not meet the employment criteria, the use of verbal rather than written instructions, the unlawful payment of unearned grants and bonuses to some staff, and various financial misdemeanors, which the DGCA administration had done nothing to resolve despite being well aware of them.

19 dead in road accidents KUWAIT: Nineteen people died in accidents on Kuwait’s roads in the week from July 1-7, with nine of these fatalities being Kuwaitis and the other ten being expatriates. In its weekly report, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) called upon all road-users to be careful and comply with traffic regulations for their own and others’ safety.

NAB to revive, divide grilling of ministers Experts offer their opinion KUWAIT: Speculation about MPs’ preparations during the summer break has been primarily focused on already announced grilling motions or others that could be filed concerning topics which are currently surfacing. In the meantime, among the topics that aren’t usually given much attention is the fate of the subjects mentioned in the grilling motion filed against former minister of development and housing Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, which were not debated in parliament due to his resignation.

A number of experts have offered their opinion on this issue, pointing out the lack or regulations governing the post-grilling phase, especially in the case of motions that aren’t debated. The grilling motion filed by National Action Bloc (NAB) members Adel Al-Saraawi and Marzouq AlGhanim addressed four main topics concerning violations in the sports sector and the Olympic Council of

Asia (OCA) building, as well as alleged corruption in housing and development.

Since the minister resigned, it has been unclear whether the NAB is willing to continue with its analysis of these subjects or put the matter to rest now that the bloc’s longtime bugbear Ahmad Al-Fahad is no longer part of the Cabinet.

Generally, each of the four topics can be addressed by one minister in the Cabinet. The sports issue comes under the jurisdiction of the Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, while the alleged violations concerning the OCA building can be addressed by the Finance minister. Meanwhile, the new appointment of separate ministers to the development and housing portfolio suggest that questions concerning these subjects can be directed to the two new ministers.

There is some speculation that the new appointments could mean that the NAB might be gearing up for

separate grillings to be filed when the parliament resumes business later this year. One clue to the bloc’s intentions could possibly be found in a statement by NAB member Saleh Al-Mulla during a recent seminar, during which he indicated that Minister of Housing Affairs Mohammad Al-Numas will be asked to investigate alleged losses of KD71 million in the Sabah Al-Ahmad City tenders.

He also suggested that the Finance Minister Mustafa Al-Shamali would face questioning over the OCA contract. Al-Mulla also stated that the bloc would be following up with the newly appointed Minister of Development Affairs Abdulwahab Al-Haroun, about development-related issues. It is arguably still early to tell for sure whether the NAB plans to file interpellation motions after the summer, or to give the respective ministers a chance to investigate into each matter thoroughly. — Al-Qabas

Real estate law violations KUWAIT: Well-informed sources at the Justice Ministry said that the real estate registration and authentication department’s manager, Adel AlHuwaidi met last week with Finance Ministry officials to discuss imposing financial fines as stipulated in laws 8,9/2008 pertaining charging companies and individuals owning over 5000 square meters each a KD 10/meter fee instead of half dinar as stipulated in the former law. The sources added that the finance ministry had already received the fees upon special receipts to be used by owners later on in doing any transaction with the Justice Ministry.

KUWAIT: Ahmadi Municipality inspectors yesterday conducted a series of raids on local restaurants and shops, issuing 15 citations to eateries, as well as the confiscation of a quantity of food unfit for human consumption, and nine citations to stores. Fahad Al-Otaibi, the director of Ahmadi Municipality, said that all storeowners and managers should comply with municipality regulations, as well as health and safety rules.

2 dead, 6 hurt in road accidents

By Hanan Al-Saadoun

Sharp increase in ALAFCO net profit KUWAIT: ALAFCO announced a net profit of KD 28.8 million for the first nine months of its current fiscal year that commenced on Oct 1, 2010, a four folds increase as compared to KD 7.8 million for the same period last year. The profit per share also rose almost four times to 36.98 fils versus 9.95 fils in the previous period.

Gross revenues during this period increased 36% to KD 39.1 million against KD 28.8 million earned during the previous year. The Company ’s Ahmad A. Aizabin assets jumped 15% to KD 552.7 million, and the shareholders equity increased 21% to KD 124 million.

Chairman & CEO, Ahmad A Aizabin stated to the press after a meeting of the Board of Directors that “the results exceed our projections.” He pointed out that the remarkable increase in profits compared to last year was due to the modification of some agreements that yielded a onetime KD 20 million profit approximately. Aizabin also stated that the company is successfully executing its operating plan, and in the first nine months ALAFCO managed to fulfill its obligations towards its clients by delivering two Airbus A320-200 aircraft to Saudi Airlines, three new Boeing B737 aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines and two new Boeing B737-800 aircraft to Okay Airways in China.

Financing for the aircraft acquisition in the amount of US$266 million was obtained from local and international banks.

During the third quarter, ALAFCO signed an agreement with Thai Airways for the lease of 6 new Airbus A350-900 XWB aircraft for a period of 12 years. During this period, ALAFCO signed an agreement with Airbus to purchase 6 additional A350-900 XWB aircrafts at Paris Air Show for a total amount of $1.6 billion. Also during the Paris air show, the company signed a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of 30 A320 NEO aircraft for a total amount of $2.7 billion.

ALAFCO is a Kuwait-based aircraft leasing company that is listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange. The company leases Airbus and Boeing aircraft to various airlines in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The company growth plans calls for an increase in the number of leased aircraft in its portfolio to 100 over the next five years.

ABK starts summer training program for high school students KUWAIT: Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait yesterday announced the recent launch of its three-week summer training program for Kuwaiti high school students. The bank, which launched its latest summer training program on July 3, has been greatly encouraged by the tremendous success of previous training programs in recent years.

Hamza Enki, Al-Ahli Bank’s Assistant General Manager of Human Resources, said that ABK is keen to continue organizing such programs in

keeping with its belief in the bank’s role and obligations concerning social responsibility towards the new generation of students.

Summer programs are essential in order to help put young people’s free time to good use, he stated, adding that the bank believes strongly that the rich experience of working in a leading bank will bring positive results for their career path and their future endeavors.

The program aims to familiarize

students with the banking sector and important methods and procedures developed and used in different departments of the bank, so as to build a positive and realistic idea of modern banking practices. Through this training program, students will also be able to learn firsthand about the importance of the banking sector and its leading role in the economic field, as well as receiving in-depth training in the latest methods of premium customer quality services.

MoC faces public, parliamentary anger over inaction on ISPs KUWAIT: As public dissatisfaction continues to grow at the inflated prices charged by local Internet Services Providers’ (ISPs) introduction of a ‘Fair Usage Policy,’ the Ministry of Communications (MoC) has so far failed to resolve the problem, with the ISPs refusing to reduce their

prices. One MoC insider revealed that whilst the ministry has been attempting to resolve the problem in an amicable and mutually satisfactory manner for several months, it is unable to force the ISPs to adopt any price reduction mechanism.

A number of MPs are reportedly

considering submitting a grilling motion against the communications minister over the matter, with informed political sources reporting that the next few weeks are likely to see a confrontation between senior MoC officials and some parliamentarians.—Al-Jarida

Iraqi tribes protest against Mubarak Port

By A Saleh KUWAIT: Members of a number of Iraqi tribes gathered in Basra City, Iraq yesterday to protest against the construction of Mubarak Port, as well as against the building of a nuclear power plant near the Kuwait-Iraq border. The tribes demanded that all projects which obstruct the movement of international shipping be halted immediately, adding that the Mubarak Port project will also obstruct the planned construction of a port in Basra.

“The protesters asked the international community and the UN to review the resolutions related to Iraq, especially that of border demarcation with Kuwait, as well as Iran,” said Mohammad Al-Zawaidi, the Deputy Chairman of Basra City’s Council of Elders. “We asked that Iraq be compensated for all the damages done to it resulting from the policies against Iraq and its people, and demand the release of all prisoners and for Iraqi remains to be handed over.” Meanwhile, MP Ali Al-Omair has withdrawn a threat to submit a grilling motion against foreign minister Sheikh Mohammed Al-Sabah over the minister’s previous signing of an agreement on nuclear energy with Russia. Al-Omair said yesterday that he had subsequently discovered that the treaty mentioned by a Russian news agency in a recent article was an old one, adding, “I received a call from the interior minister and he said the treaty’s old and doesn’t mention building reactors. He added that Kuwait stopped this project after Japan’s earthquake and its effects on the reactor there.” In other news, MP Jamaan Al-Harbish has asked interior minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Humoud AlSabah and social affairs minister Mohammad Al-Afasi about the arrest of a vegetable trader accused of offering bribes to members of Bayan Cooperative’s management board.

KFSD holds ‘Summer Safety’ expo

By Hanan Al-Saadoun KUWAIT: Officers from the Kuwait Fire Services Directorate (KFSD) staged a ‘Summer Safety’ exhibition at the Avenues Mall on Saturday.

KFSD Public Relations Director Lieutenant Colonel Khalil Al-Amir explained that the expo aimed to increase public awareness of the increased risks of fire during the hot, dry summer period, with a number of items of useful household firefighting equipment being on display during the event.

Following the conclusion of the one-day expo, Lt. Col. AlAmir thanked the management of the Avenues Mall for their cooperation, as well as expressing his gratitude to the National Bank of Kuwait for its support for and sponsorship of the exhibition and of the prizes given to members of the public as part of the event.

KUWAIT: Two Saudi citizens, aged 45 and 65, were killed, while a 15-year-old compatriot suffered internal bleeding and four Kuwaitis sustained various injuries in a car crash on Salmi Road yesterday. The injured were rushed to Jahra Hospital, whilst the two bodies were removed for autopsy. In a separate incident, a 72-yearold Palestinian man was taken to Mubarak Hospital after suffering bruising to one hand and possible back injuries and heavy bruising to one hand in a car crash near Hadi Hospital.

Fight club A 25-year-old Pakistani man was taken to Farwaniya Hospital after sustaining a deep stab wound to his chest during a fight in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh Amghara fire A 25-year-old Egyptian man suffered smoke inhalation and breathing difficulties due to a fire that broke out in an area of Amghara Scrapyard. He was taken to Jahra Hospital.

female prosecutors KUWAIT: The cabinet is reportedly considering allowing the appointment of Kuwait’s first female prosecutors, to be selected from amongst the female graduates of Kuwait University’s law faculty.

According to a cabinet insider, ministers have reviewed senior jurist Faisal Al-Mershid’s recent statement declaring that he has no objections to appointing women in positions within the judiciary, suggesting that this should begin with the Public Prosecution Service’s families and juveniles division. A cabinet insider said that His Highness the Prime Minister is keen to see suitably qualified female lawyers appointed to senior positions within the Kuwaiti judiciary, as recommended by the UN Human Rights Council. — Al-Jarida

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

local

Bangladesh Embassy introduces electronic passports in Kuwait

By Ben Garcia

Dr Ibrahim Al-Rashdan

Dr Khaled Al-Sabti

Scientific inventions pride for Kuwait KUWAIT: Two Kuwaiti inventors have called for providing support and assistance to researchers and physicians in the field of basic medical and clinical sciences by encouraging ‘Kuwaiti creative energies’ in the areas of medical and scientific research.

For his par t, head of cardiac catheterization in the Chest Diseases Hospital Dr I brahim Al-R ashdan praised the initiative of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad AlJaber Al-Sabah to establish a center named after him for talent and creativity. Dr Al-Rashdan is the inventor of a device used to prevent complications of the kidneys after exposure to the dye used during angiography per formed on the heart.

He said the responsibility of the centre includes containment of creative figures and develop their talents, saying that such initiative would have a good

influence on the minds of researchers and inventors. Al-Rashdan expressed hope to see the results of such research become a reality on the ground.

“We need to be a fertile ground for ideas and manufacturing, such as the Japanese catheter doctors who enjoy an environment full of scientific movement in the field of medicine; and what is produced by Tokyo of innovations is normal for the favorable creative atmosphere”, he added.

For his part, Dr Khaled Al-Sabti, a consultant of Ophthalmology and Retina who has a distinguished record in the field of medical inventions to use the endoscope – an instrument to remove the White Water from patients who suffer from the opacity of the cornea without the need for implantation. He said he was proud to receive a letter of appreciation from His Highness the Amir for his inventions. — KUNA

MP slams govt over ‘crazy’ budget, condemns ISPs’ practices KUWAIT: Veteran anti-government MP Musallam Al-Barrak yesterday blamed what he called the current “crazy” budget on government spending. The MP scoffed at reductions of KD270 million from the original KD19 billion budget, saying, “If the budget is crazy will cutting KD270 million make it rational again? Of course not! The budget is still crazy because of government policies.”

Whilst slamming the government for spending too much, Al-Barrak also condemned it for stinginess and what he claimed was its miserly attitude towards Kuwaiti citizens, citing its failure to approve pay rises for military personnel, pensioners and teachers which would have cost KD650 million in total whilst requesting that the amount paid in supplementary appropriations be increased to KD1.75 billion.

The MP accused the government of wast-

ing Kuwait’s funds on unnecessary luxuries, adding that the millions of dinars spent on these things could instead be spent on building desperately needed hospitals and schools.

On another issue, Al-Barrak accused the recently appointed minister of information and of communications of evading his responsibilities concerning local internet service providers (ISPs), who he said are limiting customers’ freedoms through the use of monopolistic practices, further suggesting that achieving these restrictions might be the government’s actual goal.

“We say to the communications minister, the company owners won’t help you!” the MP asserted, insisting that the minister must intervene to stop the ISPs from carrying out these practices and punish them for their abuse of their customers and for profiting at Kuwaiti citizens’ expenses.

MoE to set up Arabic language institute KUWAIT: The Ministry of Education is planning to establish an institution to improve the teaching of the Arabic language in Kuwait, in a bid to enhance the process of teaching children the country’s first language.

The ministry’s plan was revealed by Education Minister Ahmad Al-Mulaifi in posts on his Twitter account, in which he also discussed an idea he plans to propose to MOE senior officials concerning a proposed strategy for solving the problems created by the erratic working hours of ministry personnel.

The subject of teachers’ allowances was also unsurprisingly mentioned by the minister in his most recent tweets, with Al-Mulaifi insisting on the benefits of the new performance-related pay system. The minister added that the current system, whereby the ministry receives reports

directly from schools rather than carrying out its own evaluations, is flawed and needs to be changed.

Meanwhile on a separate issue, a senior MoE official confirmed that the country’s private schools will not be permitted to increase their fees significantly, with a recent contract signed with the ministry prohibiting them from doing so for the next two school years. In a press release issued on Saturday, MoE Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Fahad Al-Ghais explained that under the terms of the agreement up until the 2013-14 school year, English language schools will be permitted to increase their fees by 5 percent annually, whilst those teaching primarily in other languages will be allowed to raise their fees by 3 percent. —Al-Qabas

VIVA Honors Students for Outstanding Performance KUWAIT: Kuwait Telecommunications Company VIVA, honored the local community of high school students, by awarding the top ten students from the Science section and Art section, and offered words of encouragement to the future of our culture. “From generation to generation, education is passed on with the responsibility that the next generation will aspire for our community to function not smarter, not better, but more efficiently, to benefit all those around us,” stressed VIVA, CEO Salman Al-Badran.

As part of VIVA’s ongoing effort to encourage the local community on the importance of education and the role it plays towards the advancement of society, VIVA, CEO Salman Al-Badran, invited the top ten graduating High School students from both the Arts section, and the Science section, to the VIVA Head Office to

recognize their discipline and award their recent achievement.

Further guiding the High School students with words of encouragement, Salman Al-Badran advised, “Success requires strength, knowledge and will.

VIVA is very proud of the efforts you have put forth to succeed at your education.

However, I hope that you acquire the patience to climb the ladder of success slowly, for it is more important for you to become a generation of value than simply for success.”

VIVA is proud of the achievements of the recent graduating High School students, as they are the future to the Kuwaiti community’s success, as well as the generation that will ultimately guide and lead our businesses, and pass on the education that will aim to benefit the generations to come.

KUWAIT: Machine Readable Passport (MRP) system was introduced yesterday at the Bangladesh Embassy in Kuwait. Syed Shahed Reza, the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Kuwait, inaugurated the event at the embassy’s compound in Khaldiya, with the event being attended by local press representatives and invited guests.

“It’s a longtime plea of our citizens to introduce the MRP and here it is,” said the ambassador. “This is a great achievement on our part since the international community is also using the MRP nowadays. It is a must now to utilize the MRP.” As of April 2010, the International Civil Aviation Organization has required all 188 ICAO contracting states to introduce MRP system which replaces the old and bureaucratically laborious handwritten passport system, the ambassador explained.

He added, “All new passports will be issued in MRP form. It will be less time-consuming and easier. The old passport will be accepted so long as it isn’t expired.”

MRPs, which are the contemporary internationally standard computer-generated travel documents, are believed to enhance security and accelerate passport processing at ports of entry anywhere in the world. The data on the new MRPs for Bangladeshis in Kuwait will be processed and encoded in Kuwait but sent back to Dhaka for clearing and verification.

“It will take at least 15 days at minimum but sometimes maybe up to one month. The reason for this is that [the data] will be sent to Bangladesh and the actual passport will be issued from there before they send it back to us here,” he explained.

The new system could also eliminate the fraudulent counterfeiting of visas and passports. From now on, applicants will no longer have to provide a copy of their new passport size photo, but instead fill in a form whose details will be entered into the computer here. The Bangladeshi Embassy processes approximately 200-300 passports per day;

KUWAIT: Syed Shahed Reza, the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Kuwait, (second right) supervising MRP processing immediately after cutting the ceremonial ribbon. — Photo by Joseph Shagra and queues there are generally not only lengthy but also frustrating.

The ambassador pointed out that the queuing time would be a lot shorter with the new passports because of the more rapid processing enabled by the MRPs. The Bangladeshi population in Kuwait currently stands at 250,000, with new workers continuing to arrive every single day, Ambassador Reza revealed.

“Some rumors say that our nationals are banned in Kuwait,” he said, while rejecting these reports as false. “We are not banned from entering Kuwait; our citizens can come and work. There have been some delays in hir-

ing since the government of Kuwait is introducing a new system, but it will be fine inshallah shortly.”

The ambassador further revealed that while around 5,000 Bangladeshi nationals whose visas had expired took advantage of the recent Amiri amnesty to leave the country without facing any penalties, “there were many Bangladeshis who were able to get their visas and legalize their residency status.”

Formerly located in Surra, the Bangladeshi Embassy is now located in a spacious compound with a large parking area in Khaldiya, next to the Kuwait Women’s Society headquarters and Kuwait University.

A

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

Years

LOCAL

Military officer tries to abduct ex-girlfriend ‘Romantic’ gunpoint action

Burgan Bank partners with Beaubelle Spa

Kuwait Digest

Catalogue of offences

By Mohammad Al-Shaibani

D

espite being a decades-old oil company in an oil-rich country, KNPC is still suffering from mismanagement and countless offenses, which were recently exposed through evidence provided by lawmakers during the discussion of the company’s budget.

The things I’ve heard and read about violations committed in the Kuwait National Petroleum Company which are mentioned in State Audit Bureau (SAB) reports are more horrendous than any word in all dictionaries in the world can describe. During the discussion of its suspicious budget - which was unfortunately passed - some notes about the KNPC’s mismanagement was mentioned, including: ● The employment of expatriates increased by 80%. ● Officials failed to repay debts they have owed to the KNPC for years, which come to a total of KD2 million. When asked about why they haven’t repaid the monies, some officials argued that they wouldn’t pay unless they see other debtors pay! ● The KNPC’s income reached KD20 billion, while its expenses reached KD19 billion. ● Violations cited in SAB reports about local marketing practices. One of the reports indicate that jet fuel rather than kerosene was sold to gas stations due to the company’s insufficient storage capacity. ● $1.682 billion in losses for selling products with prices lower than the oil price. ● Negligence at KNPC-owned refineries overseas.

Th e K N P C h a s m a ny d e vo te d e m p l oye e s including chairman Fahad Al-Adwah, but their efforts are unfortunately overwhelmed by the incompetent policies used to manage all public sector bodies. — Al-Qabas

KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced yesterday that it has entered into an exciting coalition with Beaubelle Spa offering its women credit cardholders’ discounts of 45% for the month of July.

Burgan Bank women credit card holders can enjoy discounts on all products and services by Beaubelle Spa when they pay with their credit cards. The offer is valid until July 31st, 2011.

Highlighting the benefits of this offer, Muneera Al-Mukhaizeem, the chief retail banking officer- general manager said, “This offer is part of our continuous efforts to provide our customers with value added services and benefits whilst banking with us.

Our women customers can now take some time off and indulge in luxury with Beaubelle Spa’s range of beauty treatments and services. We continuously aim to offer our customers special offers and discounts across different categories as well as other added features.”

The new alliance is one of many initiatives that Burgan Bank continues to offer its credit card customers which provide the best and most attractive promotional offers with the leading high end retailers across Kuwait.

KUWAIT: A military officer was taken into custody after abducting his ex-girlfriend at gunpoint in a Maidan Hawally street. Police found out about the abduction when they received a phone call from the girlfriend’s female friend telling them that a man in military uniform had been following their car in the area before forcing them to stop and abducting her friend at gunpoint. Police rushed to the scene and were able to stop the suspect before he could escape.

They confirmed that he was indeed a serving military officer with the Kuwaiti forces and had used his sidearm in perpetrating the crime. He was taken into custody where he claimed during questioning that he had previously been romantically involved with his victim, but she had broken off their relationship, refusing to return his calls. He told detectives that when he saw her driving down the street, he acted ‘spontaneously ’ to win her back by abducting her at gunpoint. The investigation is continuing.

Inside job?

Police are investigating a burglary at a maintenance workshop in Salhiya, in which the thieves, who escaped with seven rolls of copper sheeting, appear to have entered the facility using a key rather than breaking in.

Detectives and crime scene officers found no sign of forced entry at the workshop, suggesting that the burglars did not have to break in and possibly had inside help to assist them in entering it. Police are questioning staff there to discover if any are connected to the theft.

No party Four young men were arrested after police caught them trying to break into a flat in Maidan Hawally where they claimed, wrongly, that

there was a wild party featuring illegal activities taking place. The alarmed tenant of the apartment called police when he woke up to find the young men attempting to break into his flat at 2:30 AM on Saturday morning, with officers who rushed to the scene apprehending the luckless quartet after a short but violent struggle, which saw one officer stabbed in one hand by one of the youths. During questioning, one of the foursome asserted that they had been denied entrance to the flat where there was an orgiastic party taking place, adding that they had attended similar parties at the apartment previously. They claimed that they had received a phone call earlier in the night inviting them to the apartment where the unnamed caller told them that 15 women and ten men were present at the party.

When police pointed out that nobody but the tenant was in the apartment, they argued that the other party guests had used the emergency stairwell to escape. The tenant strenuously denied their claims.

KD500,000 burglary A Kuwaiti man is blaming police for a burglary at his home, which he said took place whilst he was in custody for questioning over a separate case. The man was being held at Jahra police station after a local telecommunications firm pressed charges against him over a KD50 debt. When he was released and returned to his house in the area, he discovered that burglars had broken in and stolen KD500,000 in cash which he had hidden there.

The aggrieved householder immediately returned to the police station to report the theft, blaming police for the burglary since it happened whilst he was in custody. An investigation has been launched, which includes determining the source of the stolen money, which

the man failed to satisfactorily explain the origin of or his reason for storing it at his home.

Hocus pocus A citizen of another Arab nation was arrested at his flat in Hawally on charges of witchcraft, admitting that he had been practicing sorcery for over a year. The man was caught in a sting operation following a visit by an undercover female officer to his flat for a ‘consultation.’ During her visit, which was recorded via a hidden wire she was wearing, the warlock agreed to provide the required sorcery services to her for a KD500 fee. He was arrested redhanded, with police discovering large quantities of sorcery equipment in the apartment.

Brothel busted Farwaniya police arrested two Arab men inside a brothel in Khaitan, during a raid that also netted three men and six women of Asian nationalities. The operation was carried out following a tip-off from an informant about the illegal activities taking place in the apartment. The two Arab men, an accountant and a law firm representative, were referred to the relevant authorities, along with the other detainees, to face legal action.

Druggie driver A Kuwaiti man was arrested after being caught in possession of alcohol and other narcotics in an Ahmadi street. Police became suspicious of the man’s behavior when he drove away rapidly on spotting a patrol vehicle, following his car to an area beside a public park. On searching his vehicle, officers found a bottle of liquor, as well as a plastic bag containing narcotic tablets. He was referred to the General Department of Drugs Control (GDDC) for further action.

— Al-Rai, Al-Anba

Natural medicine hospital in offing

Muneera Al-Mukhaizeem

KUWAIT: The technical body to study development projects and initiatives announced the launch of the construction and rehabilitation of the natural medicine hospital according to the Law 7 of the year 2008.

The hospital is with the capacity of 500 beds, and an investment period of 25 years.

The body said in a press release that the land for the project will be in an area of about 2,17,800 square meters located in Andalus area. The aim of the new hospital is to provide various services, of natural medicine and rehabilitation for patients and the elderly as well as the extension of health care services for people with physical disabilities, the statement added.

The body completed the feasibility studies as well as the environmental studies for the project with the cooperation of an international company and the announcement of the invitation of foreign and local investors with specialty to apply for the project on June 19, the statement said.

The investors are later invited to purchase qualification documents during the third quarter of this year for evaluation, indicating that if any party will be qualified to purchase the documents then they will be called for proposals to announce the buyer by the first quarter of 2012.

The applicants are free to apply until Aug 18 by email. — KUNA

TEC to host annual E-Dama competition

Late Sheikh Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah

KUWAIT: The Touristic Enterprises Company will be holding the national edama competition for the seventh year in a row during the upcoming month of Ramadan.

The competition, known as the ‘Late Sheikh Yousuf Saud Al-Sabah Championship’, highlights one of Kuwait’s traditional board games. The TEC competition will be supervised by Sheikh Ali Al-Yousuf Al-Sabah. “The competition has successfully achieved its goal by garnering high interest from professional and amateur players”, Sheikh Ali Al-Sabah said in a recent statement.

Meanwhile, Dr. Nouri Al-Wattar, chairman of the competition’s organizing committee, announced that following the strong performances seen during last year’s event, the level of competition in the current seventh annual competition will be increased to level 18. He added that the tournament will be held during the second week of Ramadan at the Yacht Club.

Fareed Al-Ali uses calligraphy to write down names of participants at the workshop.

Artist Fareed Al-Abdal looks at children’s work during the workshop.

Kuwaiti art showcased at Asila Forum ASILA, Morocco: Kuwait is continuing to participate actively in the 33rd Asila International Cultural Forum, with a top official from the Gulf nation’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs (MAIA) delivering a lecture and workshop yesterday about the development of Arabic caligraphy throughout history.

Speaking to a crowd of enthusiasts about the significance of Arabic caligraphy in the region’s history, the presidents of Kuwait’s Islamic Arts Center Fareed Al-Ali explained how its development played a major role in expressing Islamic identity, giving it a primary position among linguists, artists and religious devotees.

In the meantime, Kuwaiti artist Dr. Abdullah Al-Haddad delivered a lecture about the history of ‘plastic art’ in Kuwait. Dr. AlHaddad, the Assistant Dean at Kuwait University’s basic education faculty, demonstrated the evolution of artistic movements in

Kuwait, providing a visual display of the works of 126 Kuwaiti artists.

The Asila International Cultural Forum is

taking place in Asila, Morocco, which began on July 1, concludes on July 22, with Kuwait being the guest of honor at this year’s event.

A team from Kuwait’s National Council of Culture, Arts and Letters.

Female staff dominate in MoE

Dr Nouri Al-Wattar

Sheikh Ali Al-Sabah

MANAMA: Female staff represent more than three quarters of the employees working for Kuwait’s Ministry of Education (MoE), according to a new study.

According to the latest figures, 58,455 women, 45,726 Kuwaitis and 12,729 expatriates, are employed by the ministry, a 77.5 percent on the total 76,630 force in the last

year. However, while Kuwaiti female employees outnumbered expatriates, male expatriates constituted 12.9 per cent of the ministry workforce, while the 8,286 local male employees were 10.8 per cent.

The overwhelming majority of female staff could explain the appointment of many female officials to senior ministry

positions, the study suggested.

The education ministry has three female assistant undersecretaries, while four out of six education distric ts are chaired by women, whilst two women, Nouriya AlSabeeh and Moudhi Al-Humoud, held the position of education ministers. — AlWatan

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

Egypt protesters to stay in Tahrir despite PM promises

Colombia rebels vehicle bombs kill 3, wound 77 Page 10

Page 8

Gaddafi forces shell rebels France says budget can absorb cost of operation GUALISH: Libyan rebels gather at the front line on the eastern ridge of the Nafusah Mountains in Western Libya, on the outskirt of Gualish, yesterday as forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi launched a counterattack against rebel advance positions nearby. — AFP

AL-QAWALISH: Forces loyal to Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi let loose a heavy artillery bombardment yesterday to try to push back rebel fighters who had taken a village about 100 km (60 miles) south of Tripoli. Al-Qawalish is a strategic battleground in the rebels’ march on the capital because if the they manage to advance beyond it they will reach the main highway leading north into Tripoli, where Gaddafi has his main stronghold.

A rebel fighter in Al-Qawalish, Amignas Shagruni, told Reuters that shells had been landing repeatedly over the past 24 hours from proGaddafi forces positioned a few kilometres to the east. But he said: “No one was hurt, thank God.” During a 20minute period while Reuters visited the front line east of Al-Qawalish, at least five shells landed. However, they did not appear to be well targeted, striking ransom spots in the nearby hills.

Shagruni was among a group of rebels manning the last rebel checkpoint before the front line. He said NATO warplanes had been in action in the area and hit government positions. “(They bombed) just once but it was very strong. They hit either a Grad missile or ammunition because it was very strong, even the ground shook,” he said.

Libya has been convulsed by a civil war since February when thousands of people, inspired by revolutions in neighbouring Egypt and Tunisia, rose up against his 41-year-rule. That rebellion has now turned into the bloodiest of the “Arab Spring” uprisings sweeping the region. Gaddafi has been defiantly holding on to power in the face

of rebel attacks, NATO air strikes, economic sanctions and the defections of prominent members of his government. Western powers who want to force him out are banking on rebel advances towards Tripoli-combined with a possible revolt inside the cityto break his grip on power. But rebel progress towards the capital has been halting at best, with the mostly amateur fighters who often take to the battlefield in jeans and T-shirts frequently out-gunned by government troops.

Gaddafi himself sounded a new note of defiance on Friday. In an audio recording broadcast on state television, he threatened to export the war to Europe in revenge for the NATO-led military campaign against him.

“Hundreds of Libyans will martyr in Europe. I told you it is eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth,” he said. “You will regret it, NATO, when the war moves to Europe.”

Hundreds of kilometres to the northeast of Al-Qawalish, another force of rebels is also trying to push towards Tripoli, though they too are facing tough resistance. Fighters from the rebel-held city of Misrata, about 200 km (130 miles) east of Tripoli, have fought their way west to the outskirts of Zlitan, the first in a chain of coastal towns blocking their progress towards the capital.

A spokesman for insurgents who are behind the pro-Gaddafi lines and inside Zlitan itself, said they had mounted their second attack on government troops in a week. “The revolutionaries inside the town of Zlitan shelled the (pro-Gaddafi) brigades positioned on the coastal road on

Sunday at 1:00 a.m. (2300 GMT ), killing at least seven people,” a rebel spokesman, who identified himself as Mabrouk, told Reuters from Zlitan.

The account could not be verified independently because journalists have not been able to reach the town.

More than three months into the NATO operation, the alliance is under strain from the failure to achieve a decisive breakthrough on the ground and the cost of the campaign, which is stretching member states’ recessionhit finances.

Last week, Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi-from whose country many of the NATO warplanes take off for Libya- said he had opposed the intervention, and his government scaled back its military contribution.

In France, parliament will vote on Tuesday on whether to extend its military operations in Libya. France, with Britain, is the biggest contributor to the NATO campaign. The French budget minister, Valerie Pecresse, said the cost was manageable.

“The cost of our intervention in Libya has reached at this stage 160 million euros,” Pecresse told the Journal Du Dimanche newspaper.

“Compare that figure to the 40 billion euro (French) defence budget. We can absorb it,” she said. NATO launched its bombing campaign in March after the United Nations Security Council authorised the use of all necessary means to protect civilians who rose up against Gaddafi. Gaddafi says the rebels are armed criminals and al Qaedamilitants. He has called the NATO operation an act of colonial aggression aimed at stealing Libyan oil. —Reuters

US calls on Saleh to sign off on power transfer WASHINGTON: A top aide to US President Barack Obama called yesterday on Yemen’s injured President Ali Abdullah Saleh to sign a deal transferring power, during a face-to-face meeting in Saudi Arabia. Saleh, who has ruled Yemen since 1978, received top US counter-terrorism official John Brennan in a hospital in Riyadh where he is recovering after being badly burned in a bomb attack at his presidential palace last month.

Despite strong Western pressure, Saleh has repeatedly refused to sign a plan brokered by the Gulf Cooperation Council bloc in which he would hand over power within 30 days in exchange for a promise of immunity from prosecution. “During the meeting, Mr. Brennan called upon President Saleh to fulfill expeditiously his pledge to sign the GCC-brokered agreement for peaceful and Constitutional political transition

in Yemen,” the White House said. “The United States believes that a transition in Yemen should begin immediately so that the Yemeni people can realize their aspirations.” Saleh has refused to cede power despite protests that have left at least 200 people dead across Yemen, saying repeatedly that under the constitution he should serve out his current term of office which expires in 2013.

Before the attack he pledged to sign the GCC deal but later reneged, leading to renewed protests and the withdrawal of the regional bloc from mediation efforts. The United States, which had viewed Saleh as a key ally in its “war on terror,” has warned of the threat posed

by Islamist militancy in Yemen and repeatedly voiced concern over the country’s potential to become a new staging ground for Al-Qaeda.

“Mr. Brennan emphasized the importance of resolving the political crisis in

Sanaa so that the Yemeni government and people can successfully confront the serious challenges they face, including the terrorist attacks carried out by Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, which have claimed the lives of hundreds of Yemeni citizens,” the White House statement said.

“Mr. Brennan said that the United States is working closely with Yemen’s friends and supporters in the Gulf Cooperation Council, Europe, and elsewhere to ensure that much needed assistance will flow to Yemen as soon as the GCC proposal is signed and implemented.” Brennan also wished “the president a speedy recovery from injuries he sustained in a June 3rd attack in Sanaa,” the White House statement said. “Mr. Brennan reiterated the US government’s condemnation of the attack against the president and other Yemeni officials.” —AFP

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Israel deports two activists, 118 still held JERUSALEM: Israel deported two proPalestinian activists overnight, but another 118 were still in custody after flying into Israel as part of a proPalestinian protest, an Israeli official said yesterday. “A couple of Belgians were returned overnight, and 118 proPalestinian activists are still being held in our prisons,” immigration service spokeswoman Sabine Hadad told AFP. “We hope it will be possible to return

them to their home countries in the next 48 hours. It will depend on what spaces are available on departing flights,” she added. The activists are currently being held in Beersheva’s Ela prison, in southern Israel and the Guivon prison in Ramleh, near Tel Aviv.

Most of the activists being held are French, but nationals from the United States, Belgium, Bulgaria, Holland and Spain were also in detention. The

activists were participating in the “Welcome to Palestine” campaign in which up to 800 activists planned to fly into Israel and head to the Palestinian territories on a peaceful mission to visit Palestinian families.

Israeli authorities mobilised diplomatic and security forces to try to head off the incoming activists. Officials said that by notifying foreign airlines of ticket-holders who would not be admitted

to Israel, they had prevented hundreds from boarding at their ports of departure. Of those who managed to arrive, four activists from Germany and Holland were authorised to stay after giving a written commitment “not to provoke disorder” and “to avoid places of (IsraeliPalestinian) confrontation.” Israeli news website Ynet said on Saturday that around 50 European pro-Palestinian activists who managed to enter Israel

despite the security procedures at Ben Gurion Airport had crossed into the West Bank.

The “Welcome to Palestine” campaign took place as a flotilla of ships trying to break a blockade on Gaza was prevented from leaving Greece. The timing of the fly-in campaign led some to dub it a “flytilla,” although organisers denied their mission was linked to the attempt to run the blockade. — AFP

Egypt protesters to stay in Tahrir despite PM promises Protesters want action, not words

WEST BANK: Palestinians and foreigners protest in front of a section of Israel’s controversial separation barrier at the main entrance of the West Bank city of Bethlehem yesterday, marking the seventh anniversary of a ruling by the International Court of Justice in the Hague that termed illegal Israel’s construction of the 720-km (430-mile) barrier in the Israeli occupied West Bank. — AFP

Mass grave with 222 bodies found in Iraq SHANAFIYAH: The remains of 222 people, probably Kurds killed under Iraq’s former regime in 1987, were extracted from a mass grave south of Baghdad, the authorities said yesterday. “We have found 222 bodies and we have transferred them to the morgue in the province of Najaf,” said Karim Ziad, the official in charge of mass graves at the Department of Human Rights.

Iraqi authorities announced on Wednesday they had discovered another mass grave with 900 corpses in the Shanafiyah region near the city of Diwaniyah. Ziad said several factors suggested that the victims, most with bullet wounds, were Kurds killed during the regime of ousted dictator Saddam Hussein. “ The mass graves are made up of six trenches, and we have done (work) on only three of them,” he said, suggesting the number of victims could be much higher.

Dakhil Saihoud, provincial head of the Justice and Accountability Commission which investigates issues relating to the former regime, said he was informed there were 17 trenches at the site. “It is possible there are hundreds of bodies in there,” he told AFP. “ The mass graves are crimes against humanity committed in 1987,” said Human Rights Minister Mohammed Shia alSudani. “This is one of 84 sites listed at our ministry, and we have completed work on

34 of them,” he said.

Widad Hatem, director of the Committee for Human Rights in Diwaniyah’s provincial council, said women and children were among the victims.

Maghoul Abdullah, an old man of more than 90, said he remembered people being rounded up in town. “The security forces of the old regime evacuated the area and forced us to leave the place. After a few days, large trucks took away people at night, and we even clearly heard their cries,” he said.

During Iraq’s 1980-1988 war with Iran, deserters were executed and the Sunni Arab dictator intensified a crackdown on Shiites suspected of sympathising with Iraq’s predominantly Shiite neighbour.

Kurds were persecuted because they were the main opposition to Saddam. The number of people missing as a result of atrocities committed by Saddam, who came to power in 1979, is estimated at anywhere between 300,000 and 1.3 million, according to various sources. Human rights groups believe there are hundreds of mass graves in Iraq of people killed during Saddam’s rule. Shortly after the 2003 invasion, the US-led coalition said there were 263 mass reported graves of people executed in Iraq under Saddam, including 40 containing evidence of systematic killings. — AFP

MEXICO CITY: Chile’s President Sebastian Pinera, right, walks with Mexico’s President Felipe Calderon, left, at the Teotihuacan archeological site on the outskirts of Mexico City, Saturday. — AP

CAIRO: Protesters who spent their second night in Cairo’s Tahrir Square yesterday vowed to keep up their sit-in despite a series of concessions by the Egyptian prime minister. Pro-democracy activists had camped out on the square-the focus of protests that ousted president Hosni Mubarak in February-after mass nationwide rallies on Friday to demand political change.

Hundreds who spent the night in the sweltering heat blocked traffic around the square yesterday morning, some forming a picket line outside the Mugamma, a huge government complex that is the centre of Egypt’s sprawling bureaucracy.

“We managed to convince many of the employees not to go to work,” said Ghada Shahbender, a human rights activist who has been protesting since the start of the January 25 uprising.

Protesters have vowed to stay in the square until the demands of the revolution are met, including an end to military trials of civilians, the dismissal and prosecution of police officers accused of murder and torture-before and after the revolution-and open trials of former regime officials.

After nearly two weeks of mounting tension marked by clashes with police, Prime Minister Essam Sharaf on Saturday pledged to meet the demands of the protesters with a series of measures.

Sharaf said he “issued direct orders to the interior minister to stop all police officers accused of killing protesters from working,” in an address broadcast on state television. He also “ordered the creation of a panel to review the trials (of those accused of ) killing protesters and of corruption as soon as possible,” without waiting until after the judicial summer recess.

The premier said he has asked the social solidarity ministry to

look into the portfolios of health, education, and salaries and pensions. But the speech was slammed as empty rhetoric with vague promises and no deadlines, with many activists accusing the prime minister of being too weak in the face of the ruling military council.

“We are still asking for no military rule of the country, and no pressure from the military on the judiciary and the media,” said human rights activist Dina

of the piecemeal approach.

Sharaf “deals as if the problems were a water leak and instead of closing the tap, he tries to collect the water with his hands,” said Magdy Mossaad. “I didn’t use to come to Tahrir often, but now I feel like I have something precious and it is being taken away,” he told AFP. The prime minister “only responded to one demand,” said Riham Abdel Salam, 23, a student of film, referring to the sacking of police officers accused

city of Suez, threatening more measures if the demands of the revolution are not met, a security official said. Egypt stocks fell 1.67 percent on Sunday amid the continued political tensions, with the main EGX-30 index closing at 5270.86 points.

Dozens of former regime officials, including ministers and a handful of police officers, are currently on trial on charges ranging from corruption to murder.

Mubarak, who is in custody in a

CAIRO: An Egyptian woman distributes flags at Cairo’s Tahrir Square yesterday as hundreds of demonstrators who spent their second night at the landmark square vowed to keep up their sit-in despite a series of concessions by the Egyptian prime minister. — AFP Mohammed, 24. “The longer we stay (in the square), the more they respond,” she told AFP. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, which took power after Mubarak stepped down, has angered protesters who accuse it of using Mubarak-era methods to stifle dissent. Some complained

of murder.

“We are also asking for the release of civilians held by the military, an increase in salaries and we want the ex-regime ministers out,” she said. On the outskirts of Cairo, around 300 protesters cut off the main highway linking the capital to the canal

hospital in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, is to face trial along with his two sons Alaa and Gamal on August 3. But protesters have criticised the handling of the legal proceedings, demanding a transparent and thorough process for the sake of justice, not revenge. — AFP

Panetta in Iraq as another GI killed BAGHDAD: US Defence Secretar y Leon Panetta arrived in Baghdad yesterday to urge Iraqi leaders to act against Iran-backed Shiite militias, as another American soldier was killed in the south of the country. Panetta, who took office 10 days ago, flew in after visiting Afghanistan and was also to urge Iraqi leaders to decide soon on whether they want US troops beyond the scheduled pullout at the end of this year, a senior US defence official said. About 46,000 US troops remain in Iraq, down from a high of 170,000 after the 2003 US-led invasion. They are scheduled to leave in less than six months unless a deal is reached between Baghdad and Washington.

“If they are to make a proposal with regards to the continuing US presence there, they have to make a formal request that we would obviously consider,” Panetta told reporters shortly after his arrival. He is due to meet President Jalal Talabani, Prime Minister Nouri Al-Maliki and the president of Iraqi Kurdistan, Massud Barzani. “The issues for Iraq are security there and what’s being done, particularly to deal with the Iranian supply of weapons to militants in Iraq,” Panetta said.

Three American soldiers have been killed so far this month, after June was the deadliest month in three years for US troops, with 14 killed. A US military statement said a soldier was killed in southern Iraq yesterday, but gave no other details. Asked about increased attacks on US forces by Shiite militants backed

by Iran, Panetta expressed “tremendous concern”, and called on Iraqi authorities to do more to “go after those extremists that are making use of these weapons” supplied by Tehran. “If we’re all gonna be partners, they have a responsibility to protect against that kind of attack. It’s in the interest of Iraq to provide for their own security,” he said.

Iran has denied US accusations that it was smuggling weapons to insurgents in two of its neighbours, Iraq and Afghanistan. Panetta said the United States was open to a request by Iraq on a troop extension. “If they are to make a proposal with regards to the continuing US presence there, they have to make a formal request that we would obviously consider,” Panetta told reporters.

“I think the secretary will convey to the Iraqis... that there’s some urgency for them to

make that request if they’re going to make it,” said a senior defence official travelling with the defence secretary.

Panetta is the latest senior US official to arrive in Iraq, asking officials to accept a contingent of American troops beyond 2011. US diplomatic sources in Baghdad say there has been no talk on the possible number who could remain. But a possible extension would be deeply unpopular among the public in Iraq, where many people look upon the American soldiers as “occupiers”. Talabani, a Kurd, said on Saturday that political parties would announce their decision in two weeks on whether they want some US forces to remain.

Some Kurdish officials have said they want American forces to stay beyond the deadline, but the powerful Shiite movement of Moqtada Al-Sadr has threatened to resume armed struggle against American troops if they extend their stay. Panetta said he would also press Iraqi leaders to speedily appoint defence and interior ministers, posts which remain vacant because of political bickering, despite the formation of a unity government last December. — AFP

US activist death in Israel was accident HAIFA: A key witness in a civil case brought by the family of US activist Rachel Corrie, killed by an Israeli bulldozer during a demonstration in Gaza, said yesterday that she had caused her own death. Retired Colonel Pinhas Zuaretz, a former brigade commander in Gaza, said a military police investigation into the March 2003 incident found no fault with the behaviour of the bulldozer driver or the officers supervising him.

“Their operational behaviour was correct,” he told the Haifa courtroom, as Corrie’s parents Craig and Cindy listened intently through interpreters. He said

the massive, armoured D9 bulldozer was demolishing buildings from which shots had been fired at Israeli soldiers in a highly dangerous zone near the Gaza-Egypt border. Zuaretz was giving evidence on the last day of hearings in the action brought by the Corries, who are dissatisfied with the outcome of the Israeli military investigation.

They are suing the state of Israel and the defence ministry for one dollar plus costs. The retired colonel said the bulldozer operator did not see Corrie because she was behind a pile of rubble, and that a concrete pillar among the debris had struck and killed her.

“She was killed in an accident caused by her own negligence,” he said. “Anyone who runs toward the fire either has very deep ideology or is stupid.”

Activists who witnessed the 23year-old’s death said she and others were acting as human shields to prevent a house demolition in the Gaza border town of Rafah for more than two hours and were clearly visible to the bulldozer driver.

Cindy Corrie told AFP that the military investigation was wound up despite inconsistencies in witness testimony. “The two people inside the bulldozer disagree about where her body was placed after the incident

happened,” she said. “That was never reconciled yet they closed their investigation and found no fault.”

Craig Corrie said that former Israeli prime minister Ariel Sharon had promised then US president George W. Bush “a thorough, credible and transparent investigation.” “It’s still the opinion of our government as well as our family that that has never happened,” he said. “I think this trial has brought forward a number of cases where we can show explicitly how poor that investigation was.”

Judge Oded Gershon said he would deliver his verdict next April. — AFP

GAZA: Cindy and Craig, parents of US peace activist Rachel Corrie who was run over by an Israeli bulldozer during a demonstration in Gaza in 2003, arrive at a court in Haifa yesterday to attend the final hearing in a civil lawsuit against the state of Israel, which the family holds responsible for her death. — AFP

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

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Critics slam German political award for Putin BERLIN: A prominent German political prize will go to Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, a spokesman said yesterday, in a move sharply criticised in the German press due to his rights record. The Quadriga Prize, bestowed on the anniversary of German reunification on October 3, is a private award that recognises “role models for enlightenment, dedication and the public good,” the Werkstatt Deutschland organisation said.

Its board of trustees is comprised of top

officials from across the political spectrum, journalists and business executives.

Previous winners include European Commission chief Jose Manuel Barroso, former Czech president Vaclav Havel and Serbian President Boris Tadic.

Werkstatt Deutschland spokesman Stephan Clausen confirmed reports that Putin would accept the prize in Berlin.

However he admitted, “The choice by the board was a matter of heated debate” with Greens party leader Cem Ozdemir abstain-

ing in the vote, which nevertheless garnered a majority for Putin.

“Reliability paired with staying power, dependability paired with the ability to communicate make up the character and personality of Vladimir Putin,” the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung quoted the organisation as writing in its report on the selection of Putin. “He has created and is creating stability in his country with the interplay of prosperity, business and national identity.”

But the front-page article said “Russian

human rights activists and intellectuals would hardly recognise the Moscow strongman in this statement.” The Tagesspiegel newspaper wrote in an editorial Sunday that the ex-KGB agent had never broken with his past in the secret services and had established a new authoritarian system.

“Putin continuously consolidated his power in the last 11 years,” it said. “The supposed stability (in Russia under Putin) has a high price: Less freedom, less democracy...

This award is not only for Russian rights

activists a slap in the face.” Putin entered the Kremlin as president in 2000 and remained until 2008. In that time the state wrested back control of major media outlets, subjected rights groups to a wave of new restrictions and dealt harshly with perceived opponents. He now serves as prime minister and has remained the country’s most popular politician. Neither he nor current president Dmitry Medvedev have said which of them will run in presidential elections scheduled for March. — AFP

Merkel signals ambitions to run for third term Opposition candidate Steinbrueck ahead of Merkel

DADAAB: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres, center, in white, leans down to speak with Somali women, waiting among other newly-arrived refugees to be registered at Dagahaley Camp, outside Dadaab, Kenya, yesterday. — AP

BERLIN: Chancellor Angela Merkel signalled for the first time her intention to seek a third term in 2013, although a poll yesterday showed Peer Steinbrueck of the main opposition party gaining more support from voters.

Merkel made the announcement indirectly in an interview with Sat-1 TV. Although her intention to lead her conservative Christian Democrats into the campaign for a third term was no surprise, the timing just before the summer break was unusual.

“Well, I do hope that the SPD come up with an opposing candidate for the next parliamentar y elections,” Merkel told Sat-1, Germany’s fifth-most watched network, in an interview that aired on Friday and initially attracted little public notice.

Even though Steinbrueck, a conservative voice in the centre-left Social Democrats, or SPD, is popular among voters on the right, Merkel said she had no worries about him or other SPD leaders who might carry their banner in the vote due in 2013. “I know all those (candidates) whose names are being bandied about in public,” said Merkel, elected in 2005

and re-elected in 2009. “So why don’t we just wait and see what happens?”

Steinbrueck, a blunt-talking finance minister under Merkel in the grand coalition government from 2005 to 2009, has emerged only recently as the strongest SPD candidate.

The SPD is expected to decide on a candidate in 2012, but party insiders say preliminary decisions will be taken in 2011.

Intermittent speculation that Merkel’s coalition may not survive until 2013 has led to calls in the SPD to pick a candidate soon.

Merkel’s centre-right coalition of Christian Democrats and Free Democrats, or FDP, has trailed the opposition SPD and Greens in polls most of the past two years, even though surveys found the chancellor to have strong personal favourable ratings.

Her coalition has been buffeted by tensions between the Christian Democrats and the FDP. The Free Democrats have pushed for tax cuts, as they promised in the last election, even though 70 percent of voters say debt reduction is more important.

A poll published in the Bild am Sonntag

South Sudan prays for its future JUBA: Volunteers cleared away the rubbish and worshippers offered prayers for its future yesterday, after South Sudan was feted by world leaders as it celebrated independence and began the tough task of nationbuilding.

“It is a big, big job but we want to make our new capital look beautiful,” John Goi Deng, a youth mobiliser, told AFP, as he looked out at the thousands of paper flags and plastic bottles that littered Juba’s Freedom Square, the site of Saturday’s ceremony. A handful of teenagers collected the rubbish across the vast dirt field where foreign dignitaries and tens of thousands of southerners witnessed the declaration

of independence and saw the new country’s flag raised.

“This is the beginning of building the country. You first have to clean and then you can start to build.” Deng said. The challenges ahead are truly daunting for one of the poorest countries on earth that was left in ruins after five decades of devastating conflict between southern rebels and successive Sudanese governments.

“Joy at independence is tempered by ongoing troubles in the south and north alike,” said Zach Vertin, Sudan analyst with International Crisis Group, in a recent report. “On the UN’s Human Development Index-a

measure of overall quality of life and development-Sudan currently ranks 154th out of 169. South Sudan will start even closer to the bottom,” Vertin added, in the report that was co-authored by Sudan expert Aly Verjee.

In addition to the chronic lack of even the most basic infrastructure, the goverment of South Sudan has to tackle the problem of violent conflict within its borders, which has killed more than 1,800 people killed so far this year. It also has to resolve some highly sensitive issues with Khartoum that were not agreed on prior to independence.

At the Juba Christian Centre Pentecostal church, pastor

JUBA: Southern Sudanese and international VIPs attend the south’s declaration of independence day in the capital city of Juba. —AP

UN urges Senegal to reconsider decision GENEVA: UN human rights chief Navi Pillay yesterday urged Senegal to reconsider its decision to send Chad’s former dictator Hissene Habre back to his home country to face justice for alleged atrocities. Extraditing Habre to Chad, which has sentenced him to death in absentia for the torture and killing of political opponents, may violate international law, she said.

“I urge the government of Senegal to review its decision,” Pillay said in a statement, stressing the need for guarantees that Habre would not face torture or the death penalty and would get a fair trial.

“Extraditing Habre in the present circumstances, in which those guarantees are not yet in place, may amount to a violation of international law.” Habre ruled Chad from 1982 until 1990, when he was overthrown by incumbent President General Idriss Deby Itno and fled into exile in Senegal.

A 1992 truth commission report in Chad said Habre had presided over 40,000 political murders and widespread torture. — AFP

Marcelo Obwoma was preparing to preside over a special thanksgiving service that he said the new country’s President Salva Kiir would attend. The large congregation expected meant the organisers were forced to set up chairs on the grass outside.

“So many people are coming today as we are giving thanks on this special day, the beginning of our independence,” Obwoma said. “We are praying for guidance for the government so that the country remains peaceful and can grow,” Obwoma said.

Standing on the steps of the church, South Sudanese lawmaker Julius Moilinga said that after decades of civil war and struggle, people were keen to celebrate and look to the future. “All through the years (of fighting), people were praying to God for peace and independence, so now we have to come to church to thank him for giving it to us and ask for his help,” Moilinga said.

“It is one thing to achieve independence but it is another thing to walk together towards establishing a working country,” Moilinga said. Across town, construction worker Aloysious Keny, 36, said that when he woke up, he had gathered his parents, brothers and sisters together for a private celebration.

“When I got up this morning, we began celebrating again.

Yesterday was the public ceremony and today is for the relatives and family,” Keny said. He said that despite the many challenges the country faces, for the first time he now felt confident enough to bring his children back to Juba from neighbouring Uganda, where the family had spent over a decade living as refugees.

“The future began yesterday,” Keny said. “Peace is now confirmed and the happiness that began yesterday, we feel it will remain like this for our land and for our children.” — AFP

newspaper on Sunday found Steinbrueck well ahead of Merkel in the “more likeable” category, holding a 45 percent to 36 percent advantage. It also found Steinbrueck holding leads among voters over Merkel in key categories like economic expertise and domestic security, although Merkel was stronger on foreign policy and social welfare.

“Steinbrueck would be an extremely dangerous candidate for the conservatives,” Emnid polling institute head Klaus-Peter Schoeppner told the newspaper, adding the public felt he was more in touch with the problems of ordinary people than Merkel.

“If the SPD nominates Steinbrueck, the voting behavior of German voters is going to be turned upside down,” he added. In a poll on Friday by ARD TV, the CDU and its Bavarian sister party, Christian Social Union, fell by 1 percentage point in July to 32 percent-their lowest this year. The FDP was at 5 percent, down from 14.8 percent in the 2009 vote.

The SPD rose one point to 26 percent, while its preferred coalition allies, the Greens, fell one point to 23 percent. — Reuters

Chad’s former dictator protests forced repatriation DAKAR: Hissene Habre, the former dictator of Chad who faces forcible repatriation there after years of exile in Senegal, denounced what he called a “kidnapping”, his lawyer said. Habre had reacted with “astonishment and surprise” to the Senegalese government’s decision to send him back to the country he once ruled, said El Hadji Diouf, one of his Senegalese lawyers. “He himself used the term kidnapping,” Diouf told reporters. “This is neither an expulsion, nor an extradition, it’s a hostage-taking.” Habre’s defence team was preparing to file complaint for human rights violations against Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade both in Senegal and internationally, he added.

If anything happened to Habre after he was flown back to Chad on Monday, President Wade would be sued for complicity in murder and acts of torture, Diouf said. A judicial source in Chad familiar with the case said he did now know what would happen if Habre returns, but, if legal protocal is to be followed, the former leader “must be produced (in front of a judge) when he arrives”.

Human rights groups have also expressed alarm at Senegal’s decision, announced on Friday, to deliver Habre into the hands of Chadian President General Idriss Deby Itno. It was Itno who drove Habre from power in a 1990 coup.

Human Rights Watch advocate Reed Brody, who has spearheaded the case against Habre, told AFP on Friday: “We want justice, not the guillotine.”

“Habre’s victims have been fighting for 20 years to bring him to justice but it’s vital that he gets a fair trial,” Brody added. “We have always opposed the idea of sending him to Chad. We believe the conditions do not exist for him to have a fair trial.” Allioune Tine of Senegalese rights group RADDHO said sending Habre to Chad was like leading him “to the abattoir”, in comments to a private radio station. Habre ruled Chad from 1982 and fled to Senegal in 1990 when he was overthrown. A 1992 truth commission report in Chad

said that during his time in power he had presided over up to 40,000 political murders and widespread torture.

And in 2008, a court there sentenced him to death for crimes against humanity, in a trial held in his absence.

But in Dakar, Interior Minister Ousmane Ngom has already signed the expulsion order, and on Monday, after two decades of exile in the west African nation, Habre is to be flown out of Senegal and back to Chad.

Habre will be accompanied on his flight back by a senior representative of the African Union, a Senegalese government spokesman told AFP Friday. African heads of state meeting in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, at the beginning of the month adopted a resolution urging Senegal to either prosecute Habre or extradite him.

Although a Senegalese court indicted Habre in 2000, an appeals court dismissed the case, ruling that crimes against humanity, of which he was accused, were not covered in the country’s criminal laws.

In 2006 the African Union mandated Senegal to put him on trial and Senegal amended its penal code accordingly to include crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide.

But no case ever came to trial, as Senegal insisted on having international funding up front before going forward. Then in September 2005, after several alleged victims of Habre’s regime filed complaints in its courts, Belgium issued an international warrant for his arrest. Senegal however refused to extradite him. During his exile in Senegal, Habre has been living in a chic suburb of the country’s seaside capital. Some in Dakar said they were worried about their long-time neighbour. “I see him pass from time to time, in a car (...) But I don’t understand this decision to send him home where he could have problems,” said a security guard who works in the area.

Habre’s lawyer Diouf did not say whether his client had already been detained by the Senegalese authorities or whether he was still at one of his homes. — AFP

Blast in outskirts of Nigerian capital ABUJA: An explosion in Suleja, a town on the outskirts of Nigeria’s capital Abuja, seriously injured four people yesterday, the National Emergency Management Agency said. “NEMA officials have confirmed an explosion at Suleja ... four seriously injured victims have been taken to hospital. A death figure has yet to be confirmed,” a spokesman told Reuters.

Security in Nigeria’s capital has been tight in recent weeks after a bomb attack by suspected members of an Islamist sect outside the national police headquarters last month killed several people. Boko Haram, which says it wants a wider application of sharia Islamic law across Africa’s most

populous nation, has been behind almost daily attacks in northeastern Nigeria, mainly around Maiduguri, the capital of Borno state.

The attacks, which often target the police, have killed more than 150 people this year. Authorities said 11 members of Boko Haram were killed and two soldiers injured on Saturday night when the group attacked a military patrol in Maiduguri with explosives.

“At about 19:30 (18:30 GMT) a patrol team of the Joint Military Task Force (JTF) was attacked with improvised explosive devices and several gunshots from a building in a bus park,” Colonel Victor Ebhaleme told the media yesterday. — Reuters

BALLYCLAIRE: Residents walk past burnt out vehicles in Ballyclaire Northern Ireland yesterday after a night of loyalist rioting. Rioting broke out in Ballyclaire that left several police officers injured. — AP

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Bangladeshi American congressman takes aim at profiling WASHINGTON: Hansen Clarke made history as the first member of the US Congress of Bangladeshi descent but when he goes to the airport, he still feels that he is singled out with suspicion. “If I don’t shave for a few days and I wear my hoodie on, or I’m in the airport and I have my jogging clothes onoh yeah, I get subjected to the random explosive tests almost every time,” Clarke said.

Since entering Congress in January, the Detroit-based congressman has made it his mission to try to stop racial profiling in the United States, using his position as a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security. The 54-year-old comes to the issue from a unique dual vantage point. His mother was African American, a community that has long protested against racial profiling by law enforcement.

“After 9/11, South Asians had some experience of what African Americans

have had to go through for centuries here,” Clarke, his voice animated, told AFP in an interview in his office. “I’m aware of, too, the threat against our country,” he said. “When you profile somebody, that’s not effective because you’re devoting attention and resources toward a group of people who probably more than likely are not a threat.”

Clarke’s district-Michigan’s 13th-is majority African American and a stronghold of the Democratic Party, with President Barack Obama winning some 85 percent of the vote in 2008. Clarke ousted a Democratic incumbent, Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick, in a primary election last year. Clarke sees himself both as South Asian and African American; he takes his surname from his mother, who was a guard at a crossing for schoolchildren. Making his background even more diverse, Clarke’s

wife is of Korean ancestry.

And Clarke views his heritage more as South Asian than just Bangladeshi, noting that his father was born before the subcontinent was partitioned in 1947 and Bangladesh subsequently won independence from Pakistan in 1971. “My dad died before there was ever a Bangladesh created. He always considered himself an Indian,” Clarke said, recalling his father hung on the wall a picture of an event in support of freedom from Britain.

His father, Mozaffar Ali Hashim, worked at a foundry of Ford Motor Company. Alarmed by Detroit’s troubles, he planned to move his family to East Bengal but developed heart problems and died when the future congressman was eight years old.

“He spent all of his time with me because I think he knew he was going to die prematurely,” Clarke said. “He had a huge impact on me.” Clarke also

has an ecumenical approach to religion. He said he would attend a mosque as a child but later came to consider himself a Roman Catholic and contemplated the priesthood when he was in his early 20s.

“My father was an extraordinary respectful, loving, kind, gentle human being, but he was that way because of his faith-because of his faith,” Clarke said, repeating his words for emphasis. “Yes, I hold a different tradition in one respect but I also wanted to be a priest because I wanted to emulate my dad,” he said. Clarke is an accomplished painter and studied art in university, aspiring to work in galleries before he became interested in politics. He served for eight years in the Michigan state Senate.

In Washington, Clarke said he hoped to work to give his constituents the same opportunities he has enjoyed. Besides the profiling issue,

Clarke has prioritized economic development and proposed withdrawing troops from Afghanistan to redirect the money at home.

Clarke did not visit Bangladesh until several years ago but once there, he found an emotional bond. He said he was greeted by around 1,000 people in his father ’s hometown of Beanibazar and learned, to his surprise, that his dad once ran a local shop selling wedding gowns which remains profitable.

“As the guy who spent years living absolutely all alone-my parents dead, no brothers or sisters, no grandparents-I felt sometimes I was alone and I had to tough it out. To see this huge family there was just extraordinary,” Clarke said. “If you think about it, I’m considered a relatively modern, urban congressman in this country, but yet my roots go back to a culture 100 years old in unified India.” —AFP

Colombia rebels vehicle bombs kill 3, wound 77 Three attacks blamed on FARC rebels BOGOTA: Colombian rebels waged multiple attacks, setting off a car bomb and detonating a bus packed with explosives, killing three people in a volatile southwestern province of the Andean nation, officials said. Officials said the FARC rebel group staged three attacks in the southwestern state of Cauca, which is a strategic area for the production and transport of cocaine, wounding at least 77 people in addition to killing three.

Colombia, Latin America’s No. 4 oil producer, has battled leftist insurgents for almost five decades, and while violence has dropped off sharply since a 2002 US-backed crackdown, armed groups still carry out attacks frequently.

another band of rebels detonated a car bomb in Corinto municipality, wounding at least 11 people while another explosive attack in Siberia village injured six more, Gonzalez said.

“These attacks and the way

America’s oldest insurgency, has stepped up violence recently in the world’s No. 1 cocaine producer- mainly staging attacks in regions known as key cocaineproducing and transit areas.

In the southwestern town of

TORIBIO: A man looks at a home that was destroyed after a car bomb and mortars exploded in Toribio, Colombia on Saturday. —AP Guillermo Alberto Gonzalez, governor of Cauca province, said guerrillas attacked a police post with a bus loaded with explosives in the Toribio municipality, killing one police officer and two civilians and wounding 60 others. Almost simultaneously,

they were carried out clearly show the cruelty and despair of the FARC,” President Juan Manuel Santos said in a statement.

In mid-June, another, smaller rebel group set off a car bomb in Cauca’s capital, wounding 17 people. The FARC, Latin

Toribio, its mayor Carlos Banguero said “It was a brutal attack by the FARC against the people of Toribio,” Banguero said.

“It appears they used a car bomb loaded with 220 pounds (100 kilos) of explosives and set it off in the center of town at the mar-

ket,” he added.

Banguero said the attack was the 13th by FARC on the village.

The attacks have killed a total of 41 people and injured 600, he said. Regional police said the FARC also attacked several other nearby towns, and one person each in Caldono and Siberia was injured as well.

The FARC, created in 1964, is the country’s main guerrilla group and currently has about 8,000 fighters, according to figures from the Ministry of Defense. In recent months, the guerrillas have stepped up their attacks in small groups.

Last week, the military bombed an encampment of FARC leader Alfonso Cano, but he had apparently fled a short time before. In June, the Colombian army announced that it had killed Alirio Rojas Bocanegra, security chief of the Marxist group’s top commander, in what officials claimed was a blow against the guerrillas.

The attacks in Cauca came days after the leader of the FARC, Colombia’s largest guerrilla group, narrowly eluded capture by fleeing hours before the army seized his jungle hideout, officials said.

Santos, who took office last August, has vowed to keep up former President Alvaro Uribe’s tough stance against left-wing rebels, paramilitary gangs and cocaine traffickers.

Analysts fear a rise in violence ahead of local elections in Oc tober as armed groups jockey for control over local councils, mayors and governorships.—Agencies

Dalai Lama welcomes young monk to US WASHINGTON: The Dalai Lama voiced optimism that China will reform and allow greater freedoms as he welcomed a young potential spiritual successor before thousands of well-wishers in Washington.

Addressing the packed West Lawn of the US Capitol near where presidents are inaugurated, the revered spiritual leader responded without hesitation when he was asked if he hoped to return to Tibet after 52 years in exile.

“Oh yes, things are always changing,” the Dalai Lama said to an eruption of cheers from a crowd ranging from fellow Buddhist monks to young Americans lying on the grass on a hot summer morning. “Certainly, I think the voice of freedom, democracy, rule of law, more and more voice(s are) now coming,” the Dalai Lama said in English, noting that Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao himself has called for political reforms in recent years.

“So things will certainly change,” he said.

“Not only (in the) Chinese case, but the whole world, things are changing.” Despite the Dalai Lama’s optimism, human rights groups report intensifying crackdowns inside Tibet. Many scholars believe China is waiting for his death, believing his cause will wither without the internationally popular monk.

The Dalai Lama is in Washington leading a 10- day religious ritual k nown as a Kalachakra-the trigger for a rare foreign trip by the 26-year-old Karmapa Lama, who some Tibetans hope could fill a void after the Dalai Lama dies. The Dalai Lama, 76, welcomed the young monk on stage with a

hearty smile and touched both his arms. The Karmapa Lama did not speak but took a front-row seat in the shade to listen respectfully to the lecture moderated by actress Whoopi Goldberg, one of the Dalai Lama’s many celebrity admirers.

The Karmapa Lama made a perilous journey in 1999 from Tibet to the Indian hill station of Dharamshala, where the Dalai Lama lives in exile, after voicing fear that China would force him to turn against the revered elder monk. He arrived in Washington on Friday on his second visit to the United States. India rejected previous requests for travel by the Karmapa, who has been the occasional source of domestic controversy.

Indian police raided the K armapa’s monastery in Dharamshala in January after the discovery inside of $1 million in cash, including in Chinese yuan. Some media in India, where suspicion of China runs deep, asked if the Karmapa was a Chinese stooge sent as an infiltrator. The Karmapa strongly denied the charge, saying in May that there “cannot be greater blasphemy than these false, very hurtful allegations.”

Both China and exiled Tibetans recognize the Karmapa, leading to hopes he could ser ve as an intermediar y. The Karmapa speaks Chinese and Beijing has been cautious in statements about him, in contrast to its strident denunciations of the Dalai Lama.

China has demanded that US officials not receive the Dalai Lama. He met with lawmakers led by House Speaker John Boehner, but the White House has not said if President Barack Obama will see him.

The Dalai Lama did not speak about the Karmapa but, responding to a question from a 14-year-old, urged young people to be “warm-hearted” and to turn the page on the bloodshed of the 20th century. “My century is gone. The people who brought the 20th century are now ready to say goodbye,” the Dalai Lama said.

“Young people-you are the people who really make the new shape of this century,” he said. “You should have vision and determination and willpower.” The globetrotting monk said he was in good health despite surgery in 2008 for gallstones. He credited his positive thinking, one of his frequent themes. “ Through my own experience, peace of mind (is) really immense help to maintain health and recover,” he said.

“Sometimes scientists say too much anger, constant fear actually eating our immune system.”

The Dalai Lama has said that his successor will be chosen outside Tibet if he dies in exile, expecting China to try to hand-pick a boy whom it can groom into a puppet. In 1995, China chose a boy as the Panchen Lama, the second-highest Tibetan spiritual figure after the Dalai Lama. The current Panchen Lama now frequently defends Beijing’s policies as bringing prosperity to the Himalayan territory.

The Dalai Lama’s choice for Panchen Lama, Gedhun Choekyi Nyima, disappeared in Tibet in 1995, leading human rights groups to call him the world’s youngest political prisoner. He would now be 22 years old. —AFP

PORT-AU-PRINCE: Haiti’s President Michel Martelly speaks as Bernard Gousse looks on during a press conference in Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Saturday. —AP

41 killed as Mexico scrambles in drug war MEXICO CITY: Mexican authorities sent in an extra 1,800 police Saturday to fight the country ’s gruesome and deadly drug war, with at least 41 people slain over the weekend including 10 who were decapitated. Fully 1,800 federal agents were sent into Michoacan state on Saturday, in a battle there mainly with the Knights Templars, a splinter group of the La Familia drugs cartel.

The reinforcements were backed by 170 vehicles, 15 ambulances and 4 MI and Black Hawk helicopters, the Public Safety office announced. National Security Council spokesman Alejandro Poire called it a “reinforcement operation faced with the possibility of greater mobilization by organized crime groups.” “They are waging an absurd war, to the death, for control of criminal turf and drug trafficking routes to the United States,” he stressed.

The federal government already has about 50,000 army troops and thousands of federal police in its fight against drug car tels. I t blames the groups for most of the 37,000 people killed since it started a military offensive against the cartels in December 2006.

And this weekend was no exception to the staggering degree of fearsome bloodletting, at times meant to intimidate and also often inflicted when groups of people refuse to cooperate with drug traffickers.

Police in the northern city of Torreon said Saturday they found the headless

bodies of seven men and three women in the back of an abandoned pick-up truck. Police chief Guillermo Flores told AFP that only one head, belonging to a woman, was found on site, and that the killers had placed it on the truck’s hood.

The pick-up truck was parked on a highway that goes around Torreon, a city of some 650,000 where two major highways heading north to the United States converge. The victims had apparently been executed “several days ago” in disparate locations, and their bodies were piled up in the abandoned pick-up truck “in an attempt to sow terror among the citizens of Torreon,” the city municipal police said in a statement.

Police have not said if they have suspects yet, but Coahuila state, where Torreon is located, is a battleground for two powerful Mexican drug cartels: The Zetas, founded by former Mexican special forces soldiers, and the Pacific cartel, headed by Joaquin “Chapo” (Shorty) Guzman. The decapitated bodies were discovered hours after 20 people were k illed late Friday when gunmen attacked a local bar in the northern city of Monterrey, Mexico’s third most important city.

The attackers, who arrived in two pick-up trucks and a car, stormed into a bar in Monterrey’s busy nightlife district and opened fire on the patrons.

Separately, 11 people were shot dead Friday afternoon in Chalco, a town on the outskirts of Mexico City. —AFP

Argentine capital votes with eye on national race BUENOS AIRES: Residents of Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, went to the polls yesterday to choose their next mayor in a closely watched race that could sway voters’ mood four months before a presidential election.

Incumbent Mauricio Macri, a center-right millionaire who used to run the nation’s bestknown soccer club, is expected to win Sunday’s vote but fall short of the 50 percent support needed to avert a July 31 run-off.

Polls show the likely second-round vote pitting him against government candidate Daniel Filmus, a former education minister hand-picked by President Cristina Fernandez.

Center-left Fernandez is the front-runner for October’s national election. Argentina’s cosmopolitan capital is home to less than 10 percent of the country’s 40 million people, but investors and analysts are watching the city race as a gauge of Fernandez’s popularity.

A Filmus victory in the expected run-off could boost Fernandez’s status ahead of October’s national election, though she might be able to brush off a defeat in the city with ease because of its historical rejection of her Peronist party. “There’s no doubt that if we win in the city it’s good news for the national election, but you have to realize Cristina has very strong support in all the provinces,” Juan Cabandie, a member of the city legislature who heads the ruling party slate in the

capital, told Reuters in a recent interview.

Sunday’s result could signal whether the government has a better chance of unseating arch-rival Macri in the likely second-round than it did in 2007 when Macri beat Filmus with a convincing 61 percent of the vote.

Polls suggest Fernandez could win re-election in a first round with support of at least 40 percent and a wide lead over her nearest rival, centrist congressman Ricardo Alfonsin.

Under Argentina’s electoral system, candidates can win the presidency in the first round with 40 percent of votes as long as their nearest rival trails by at least 10 percentage points. Support above 45 percent guarantees a first-round victory. Yesterday’s mayoral race will be followed by two key provincial elections in the central farming regions of Santa Fe and Cordoba on July 24 and Aug. 7, respectively. Government-backed candidates are also trailing in those areas.

A string of regional poll defeats would be bad news for Argentina’s president as national campaigning gathers steam, although some political analysts say they might not do her re-election bid significant harm. “(If her candidates lose), she’ll try to detract attention from those results by acting as if it’s got nothing to do with her,” said Federico Thomsen, a political consultant. Local media said official results would be published at about 9.30 p.m. local time (0030 GMT). — Reuters

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From trainee suicide bomber to new life in Pakistan BARIKOT: Young Hazarat Bilal says he feels lucky to be embarking on a new life after escaping the clutches of the Taleban in the pristine surroundings of Pakistan’s Swat valley. Just over a year ago, he says he fled a Taleban prison in Chuprial, 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of Mingora, the district’s main town.

Today, he tells journalists invited to inspect an army programme to “de-radicalise” brainwashed youth, his hero is allround cricketing star Shahid Afridi, and not Osama bin Laden. The 24-year-old is one of hundreds, potentially thousands of youths who were kidnapped or handed over by their families to train as suicide bombers or Taleban fighters in northwest Pakistan. “Shahid Afridi is the pride of our nation,” Bilal told AFP at Mishal, one of three de-radicalisation centres in the Swat valley.

“I wish he could visit me,” said Bilal of the hard-hitting batsman-nicknamed

“boom-boom Afridi” for his towering sixes, but unceremoniously dumped as captain for criticising cricket management. Pakistan’s military has had its back to the wall since American troops discovered and killed Al-Qaeda leader bin Laden within spitting distance of Pakistan’s version of West Point.

Stung by allegations of incompetency or complicity that emerged after the May 2 Navy SEALs raid, the seemingly all-powerful army has faced criticism even worse than that it endured after Bangladesh separated from Pakistan in 1971. Both domestically and internationally, it has been on the defensive.

A recent conference in Swat was designed to promote the army ’s achievements in the war against homegrown militancy. Tours of de-radicalisation centres were designed to convince journalists that their efforts were succeeding. And yet there was no mention of the religious teacher at one of the

schools, a public critic of the Taleban who was killed in October 2010.

At that centre, commanders were reluctant for journalists to mingle freely with students. The one boy wheeled out with good English peppered his tale with too many inconsistencies to believe what he was saying. But back at Mishal, Bilal says he has spent nine months in counselling, and so great is his conversion that he hopes to be a soldier himself one day. “I still remember the day when I escaped the Taleban prison. My parents brought me to this centre and it was like the start of a new journey to life.” The army claims to have de-radicalised 496 people, mostly males aged 18 to 25, since early last year. They say many surrendered during a military offensive in 2009 or escaped by themselves from Taleban prisons in the valley.

A senior army official said the purpose of the “De -radicalisation and Emancipation Programme” is “to bring a

positive change in the boys and make them useful citizens of society”. But Bilal’s tale of escape just over a year ago suggests that the Taleban continued to operate camps or prisons in Swat after the military declared it back under control in July 2009 following a two-year insurgency.

Privately, officers recognise that this was the case, but insist all centres in Swat have now been shut down. Yet although Pakistan appears to have put down the Swat rebellion by the Taleban-who beheaded opponents, burned schools and fought to implant a harsh brand of Islamic law-there are fears they are regrouping further afield. With militants dug into the tribal belt, many believe there are plenty of other so-called suicide bomb schools outside Swat. Bilal is only too aware of what his fate could have been. “They used to justify suicide attacks against the army by saying that ours is an army of sycophants and non-believers

maligning Islam, and they need to be taught a lesson,” he added. “In many cases, the Taleban injected drugs into boys, strapped explosives to their bodies and blew them up near different targets by remote control when these boys lost control of their minds,” he claimed.

Amjad Ali, 18, says he was kidnapped two years ago from his family of six brothers and five sisters, and that the Taleban told him that blowing himself up beside government forces would give him a “ticket to heaven”. “The lectures that Taleban used to deliver were so convincing that I started to believe in what they told me.”

Ali’s instructor, Habib Ullah, sounded optimistic when he talked about results achieved by the centre so far. “It was a real uphill task to rebuild personality of these boys, but we did it with the grace of Allah the Almighty,” he said. “They are now ready to be re-integrated in the society after nine months.” — AFP

Clashes at Bangladesh religious protests Scores of demonstrators, police injured

SRINAGAR: A young Indian girl holds up a poster during a sit-in protest called by Member of the Association of Parents of Disappeared People (APDP) to demand information on missing family members in Srinagar yesterday. — AFP

Seven deminers beheaded in Afghanistan HEART: Seven deminers kidnapped in western Afghanistan have been beheaded by their abductors, police said yesterday, as NATO announced the deaths of three soldiers in Taleban attacks. The seven were part of a group of 28 deminers who were snatched on Wednesday in a district that is the focus of the Taleban insurgency in Farah province, but no one has claimed responsibility for the mass kidnapping.

“Seven of the deminers are beheaded. We have recovered the body of one of them and the rest of the bodies are with tribal elders,” said Mohammad Ghaws Malyar, the Farah provincial deputy police chief. He said the fate of the other deminers who were taken in the Bala Buluk district was unknown.

Criminal groups and insurgents have repeatedly kidnapped dozens of Afghans and foreigners since a 2001 US-led invasion ousted the Taleban regime, but most are eventually freed for ransom or in exchange for the release of prisoners. The deminers were working for the Demining Agency for Afghanistan, an Afghan charity based in the southern province of Kandahar. In a similar incident in December, 18 Afghans working for the Mine Detection Center were kidnapped in the eastern province of Khost, which borders Pakistan, and were freed unharmed a day later in a joint Afghanforeign operation.

Also yesterday, three NATO soldiers and three policemen were killed in bomb and insurgent attacks in the restive south and east, as the top US commander in the country said the overall number of insurgent attacks had decreased this summer.

NATO said one coalition soldier died following an insurgent attack and another was killed in a bomb explosion in the south, while a third service member died after another insurgent attack in the east.

In southern Kandahar city, three Afghan policemen were killed, while three policemen and three civilians were wounded, in a roadside bomb blast that ripped through a police vehicle, provincial police chief Abdul Raziqtold AFP. Yesterday’s incidents brought the overall death toll for foreign forces to 293 this year in Afghanistan, according to a tally based on that collated by the independent website iCasualties.org. Overall, however, General David Petraeus said attacks were down by “a few percent” for May and June, the beginning of the traditional annual fighting season, although he said the number of homemade bomb explosions had risen. “June saw fewer insurgent attacks than last June and that’s quite significant and May was quite the same,” he said.

“So you have the first two months of comparison with the previous year is actually a reduction. July is trending that way. That is very significant,” he told reporters in the Afghan capital Kabul. Intelligence analysts had predicted a rise in insurgent attacks of 18 to 30 percent on last year, Petraeus said, while he cautioned that it was too early to declare the insurgency had been significantly hit. Petraeus made his comments as he prepares to leave his post this month and as US and other coalition forces prepare to begin a gradual drawdown of combat troops, with all due to go home by the end of 2014. US President Barack Obama has announced the withdrawal of the first 10,000 of nearly 100,000 US forces from Afghanistan this year, with another 23,000 to leave by the end of next summer. — AFP

DHAKA: Police in Bangladesh fired rubber bullets and tear gas yesterday at thousands of Islamic activists demonstrating for the restoration of a religious pledge to the nation’s constitution. Scores of demonstrators and police officers were injured during anti-government clashes in the industrial towns of Fatullah and Kanchpur, outside the capital Dhaka, police and local media said.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and various Islamist parties called for the nationwide strike from yesterday morning to demand the vow in “absolute faith in Allah” be reinstated as a pillar of the constitution. The government last month made changes to bolster the secular character of the original 1972 constitution, although Islam was retained as the state religion. In a wave of political unrest, the BNP and its allies have also enforced a recent series of strikes over changes to the electoral system that they say unfairly favour the incumbent government.

Much of Bangladesh has been shut down for four of the last eight days and on Sunday shops, businesses and schools were closed. Fatullah, home to hundreds of factories making clothes for top global retailers, was hit by hours of fighting on

Sunday as police battled with 600 protesters-mostly madrassa students-who threw bricks and blocked roads.

“The activists attacked us.

They beat seven of our officers who are injured. We shot rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse the unruly crowds,” Fatullah police chief Ainul Haq told AFP. Haq did not say whether any protesters were injured, but private Bangla Vision television put the injury toll at around 50.

At Kanchpur, the main highway linking Dhaka with the port city of Chittagong turned into a battleground as police broke up protesters who were armed with bamboo sticks.

“Chanting ‘There is no God but Allah’”, up to 3,000 protesters blocked the highway in the morning and burnt tyres,” district police chief Sheikh Nazmul Alam told AFP. He said at least 12 police officers were injured in clashes as police fired rubber bullets and tear gas to clear the road. Police also fired from close range at a barber shop where some protesters had taken refuge, according to an AFP photographer.

The assualt left several demonstrators were bleeding from head wounds.

Some of the clashes were between pro- and anti-strike suppor ters, police said. In

Dhaka, police baton-charged protesters trying to march in front of a mosque in the city centre. Moshiur Rahmand, a doctor at the Dhaka Medical College Hospital, told AFP about 20 injured people had

dawn swoop on the protesters, city police chief Meshbah Uddin Ahmed told AFP. Cargo deliveries were suspended at Chittagong port, which handles 90 percent of the country’s $50 billion foreign trade. —AFP

DHAKA: Riot police beat an Islamic activist during a 30-hour nationwide strike at Kachpur, outskirts of Dhaka, Bangladesh, yesterday. Riot police fired tear gas shells to disperse thousands of Islamist activists trying to enforce the anti-government general strike. — AP

British minister in fresh call for Sri Lanka probe COLOMBO: A British minister visiting Sri Lanka has repeated demands that the government must investigate war crimes alleged to have been committed during the island’s separatist conflict with Tamil rebels. The British High Commission said Defence Secretary Liam Fox had pushed Sri Lanka, a former British colony, to probe the charges of deliberate bombing of civilians and unlawful killings.

“Allegations of violations of international human rights and humanitarian law by both sides at the end of the conflict (must) be taken seriously,” Fox said on Saturday. Sri Lankan troops defeated the Tamil Tiger guerrillas in 2009 in a major offensive that attracted widespread allegations that tens of thousands of civilians were killed in the fighting. Fox, who was in Colombo to deliver a lecture in memory of slain Sri Lankan foreign minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, said the allegations must be “fully investigated and any individuals responsible

been admitted for treatment.

Police spokesman Masud Ahmed said magistrates were on duty to hand out on-thespot jail terms to rioters.

In Chittagong, dozens of people were arrested in a pre-

brought fully to account”.

Kadirgamar, a personal friend of Fox, was assassinated by suspected Tamil Tiger rebels in 2005. Fox said Sri Lanka needed to address national reconciliation to emerge after decades of ethnic strife. “A genuine peace requires... freedom from fear, freedom of expression including a free press and broadcast media and the freedom to dissent within the law,” he added.

Britain and the United States have led international calls for accountability and media freedom in Sri Lanka, where more than a dozen journalists and media workers have been killed in the past decade. Fox’s remarks came after police detained a British citizen of Sri Lankan origin on charges that he provided videos to Britain’s Channel 4 television for its controversial documentary “Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields”. Sri Lanka has persistently denied that its troops committed any war crimes while defeating the Tamil Tiger rebels. — AFP

MANATU: A Pakistani soldier fires a machine gun mounted on a tank in Manatu mountain at the central part of Kurram Agency, Pakistan’s tribal belt bordering Afghanistan, during an operation against militants yesterday. — AFP

New US defence chief Panetta visit troops in Afghanistan

KHOST: US soldiers pay their respects during a memorial service for Sergeant Nicanor Amper IV from Alpha troop, 6-4 calvalry at camp Clark in Madozai district, Khost province, eastern Afghanistan yesterday. — AFP CAMP DWYER: US defence chief Leon Panetta visited troops in southern Afghanistan yesterday as part of his first trip to the country since taking up his post and ahead of a withdrawal of some US forces.

The former CIA director, who took office on July 1 to replace Robert Gates, flew into Helmand province, where mostly US forces are battling the nearly decade-long Taleban insurgency.

His visit comes as commanders prepare to hand over seven NATO-held areas to Afghan control starting in mid-July, but amid widespread doubt over the ability of Afghan forces to take full responsibility for their own security. Panetta said Saturday that the focus of his trip would be the handover to Afghanled security, acknowledging that there remained “a lot more work to do in terms of being able to transition the responsibility to them”. “The key to success in Afghanistan is the ability to successfully transition to the Afghans,” he said after holding high-level talks in the capital Kabul.

“That means they have to develop a capable military, a capable police force, capable local militias that are going to be able to maintain stability. That’s the key and that’s the area we’re gonna focus on.”

US President Barack Obama has

announced that 10,000 US forces will leave Afghanistan this year and another 23,000 by the end of September 2012, ahead of a full withdrawal of foreign forces in 2014. The new Pentagon chief was to visit a field hospital in Helmand and speak to US marines credited with reversing the momentum of the Taleban in the province, one of the most dangerous parts of the war-ravaged country.

General David Petraeus, the top commander in Afghanistan who is due to leave his post this month, said the overall number of insurgent attacks on Afghan and foreign forces was down, defying the expectations of intelligence analysts. Attacks had decreased “a few percent” for May and June, the beginning of the traditional annual fighting season, said Petraeus, although he said the number of homemade bomb explosions had risen.

“So you have the first two months of comparison with the previous year is actually a reduction. July is trending that way. That is very significant,” he told reporters in the Afghan capital Saturday. Intelligence analysts had predicted a rise in insurgent attacks of 18 to 30 percent on last year, Petraeus said, while he cautioned that it was too early to declare the insurgency had been significantly hit. —AFP

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Australia steps up climate fight, unveils carbon plan CANBERRA: Australia unveiled its most sweeping economic reform in decades yesterday with a plan to tax carbon emissions from the nation’s worst polluters, reviving hopes of stronger global climate action with the largest emissions trade scheme outside Europe. Prime Minister Julia Gillard said 500 companies including steel and aluminium manufacturers would pay a A$23 ($24.70) per tonne carbon tax from next year, rising by 2.5 percent a year, moving to a marketbased trading scheme in 2015.

“It’s time to get on with this, we are going to get this done,” said Gillard after a bruising battle to win political support for the scheme, which has polarised voters and business. A parliamentary vote on the scheme is expected before year-end.

Australia is the developed world’s worst percapita greenhouse gas emitter because of its heavy reliance on cheap coal for power generation. Emissions are set to rise in the booming economy without a carbon cost, the government says.

The stakes are high for Gillard’s Labor party, which relies on the support of Greens and independents for a one-seat lower house majority. Her popularity has slumped to record lows over the scheme. With the details now finally released after months of waiting, Gillard will now try to convince voters opposed to the plan ahead of a parliamentary vote, trying to deflect a campaign against it by the hardest hit businesses.

“It is absolutely critical that the government sells this very effectively,” said Tony

Wood, director of the energy programme at the Grattan Institute, a policy think tank.

Australian retail and clean-energy stocks were expected to be among the winners, and airlines and miners among the plan’s losers, but analysts said financial markets overall were tipped to take the policy in their stride. The scheme aims to cut national emissions by 5 percent of 2000 levels by 2020, which would mean a cut of about 160 million tonnes.

The package already has the broad support of the Greens and independents, although crossbenchers said they had yet to support extra measures to protect steelmakers and jobs in the vital coal industry.

Parliament twice rejected previous attempts to price carbon in 2009 and any fresh rebuff in a vote expected around October would seriously threaten Gillard’s government.

The danger is that a vigorous campaign by the conservative opposition and business groups opposed to the tax, could erode public support and frighten political backers ahead of elections due by 2013.

“This tax is going to go up and up and up as time goes by. I think this package is going to compound the trust problem that has dogged the prime minister. This package certainly sets up the next election to be a referendum on the carbon tax,” said conservative opposition leader Tony Abbott.

Abbott has seized upon voter fears of a new tax and higher costs from a scheme that aims to transform how the nation generates and uses energy across the economy.

To neutralise opposition, Gillard said more than A$24 billion to be raised from pollution permit sales over the next three years would go to households through generous tax cuts worth more than A$15 billion. Australia’s scheme will cover 60 percent of carbon pollution apart from exempted agricultural and light vehicle emissions, with Treasury models showing it would boost the consumer price index by 0.7 percent in its first year, in 2012-13 (July-June).

It could also aid global efforts to fight carbon pollution, which have largely stalled since U.S. President Barack Obama last year ruled out a federal climate bill his present term. Outside the EU, only New Zealand has a national carbon scheme. “Other countries will look at one of the most carbon polluting economies on the planet that has made one huge stride forward towards putting a price on carbon,” said John Connor, chief executive of The Climate Institute.

Australia said it hoped to link its scheme, which would cost A$4.4 billion to implement after household and industry compensation, to other international carbon markets and land abatement schemes when its emissions market was running. Europe’s system, which covers the 27 EU member states plus Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, has forced power producers to pay for carbon emissions, driving cuts where power plants were forced to switch to cleaner natural gas or biomass.

Gillard said her government would spend A$9.2 billion over the first three years of the

up to 2,000 megawatts of capacity by 2020, replacing them with cleaner gas, while shortterm loans would help them re-finance debt and buy permits.

Australia’s booming liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector, which is due to decide on A$90 billion worth of new projects, would also be included in the scheme, despite calls for 100 percent protection. The sector will receive 50 percent assistance, Climate Change Minister Greg Combet said.

Steelmakers, including Australia’s largest, BlueScope and OneSteel Ltd , will receive 94.5 percent of free permits and A$300 million in grants to help support jobs. The scheme also set-up a A$10 billion Clean Energy Finance Corporation to fund new renewable and cleaner generation capacity, such as wind, solar, gas and wave power plants. “This is the moment where Australia turns its back on the fossil fuel age, and turns its face towards the greatest challenge of the 21st century, and that is addressing global warming,” said Australian Greens deputy leader Christine Milne, whose party wields the balance of power in the Senate.

To soothe voters, with polls showing 60 percent opposition to a carbon tax, the government has offered tax cuts to low and middle-income households, as well as increased state pension and welfare payments.

Treasurer Wayne Swan said all taxpayers earning below A$80,000 a year would get tax cuts worth around A$300 a year, which analysts said could actually help boost the struggling retail sector. — Reuters

scheme to ensure heavy polluting industries like steel and aluminium production were not killed off, and help close the oldest and dirtiest power stations. Assistance would come from free carbon permits covering 94.5 percent of carbon costs for companies in the most emissions-intensive and trade-exposed sectors, such as aluminium smelters and steel manufacturers, while moderate emitting exporters would get 66 percent of permits for free.

Coal miners, including global giants Xstrata Ltd and the coal arms of BHP Billiton , would be eligible for a A$1.3 billion compensation package to help the most emissions intensive mines adjust to the tax, which would add an average A$1.80 per tonne to the cost of mining coal. “We support action on climate change but are disappointed at the government’s lack of genuine consultation,” said Xstrata Coal spokesman James Rickards in a statement.

The Minerals Council of Australia criticised the scheme as a “dangerous experiment with the Australian economy”. Australia, a major coal exporter, relies on coal for 80 percent of electricity generation, which in turn accounts for 37 percent of national emissions. The government would also set up loan guarantees for electricity generators through a new Energy Security Fund, to help the industry refinance loans of between A$9 billion and A$10 billion over the next five years.

The government would fund the shutdown or partial closure of the dirtiest browncoal generators in Victoria state and remove

Mullen asks for China help on North Korea ‘We would like to see China to be a strong partner’

KUALA LUMPUR: Supporters of Coalition for Clean and Fair Elections (Bersih), take to the streets in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Malaysian authorities sought yesterday to deflect criticism that the government was suppressing dissent after making mass arrests and unleashing tear gas against at least 20,000 demonstrators who marched for electoral reforms. — AP

Malaysian PM defends protest crackdown KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak yesterday defended the government’s handling of street protests amid a firestorm of criticism heightened by the death of a demonstrator. Riot police fired tear gas and water cannon at thousands of chanting protesters on Saturday, sparking scenes of mayhem in the capital Kuala Lumpur and stinging criticism from human rights watchdogs.

Officers also arrested more than 1,600 people, including prominent opposition figures, in the crackdown although the police said all had been freed by midnight Saturday. Speaking at a government function Sunday, Najib lashed at the opposition-backed protesters saying they were trying to paint a picture of Malaysia as a repressive state, according to the official Bernama news agency. “ They said they wanted to hold a peaceful rally. If the police had not monitored it, it would not have been peaceful,” the prime minister said. “We dislike chaos.

We like peace. We like a country where the people live in harmony.” Najib also accused opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim of masterminding the rally and manipulating rally organisers to beef up support for his ambition to become the new prime minister, Bernama reported.

“He knows that if he does not do anything, we (the ruling Barisan Nasional coalition) will win in the 13th general election,” Najib said. “ This is the last chance for him. When people know that this is their last chance, they will do everything, good or bad.” Elections must be held by spring 2013 but Najib is expected to call for a vote in early 2012.

There has been increasing demand by the opposition and non-government groups for changes to put a stop to vote buying and prevent irregularities which

they say marred previous polls. They want indelible ink to be introduced to prevent multiple voting, equal access to the media for all parties and the cleaning-up of electoral rolls.

Najib however said the government also favoured clean elections, adding that democratic principles would be defended. “We will ensure democracy and a free and clean general election,” he said.

But analysts said the crackdown against the protesters could backfire on the government and tarnish Malaysia’s international image as one of Southeast Asia’s more democratic countries.

Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and opposition leaders have also condemned the government’s handling of the rally, which the police had declared illegal.

Amnesty spokeswoman Donna Guest called Saturday’s crackdown “the worst campaign of repression we’ve seen in the country for years”. Observers said the death of a 59-year-old taxi driver who collapsed while running away from a tear gas attack during the rally could further stoke anti-government sentiment.

Baharuddin Ahmad, a former soldier and member of the opposition PanMalaysia Islamic Party (PAS), was buried at a Muslim cemetery yesterday, with 300 people attending the funeral. “When he attended the peaceful rally, it was for our future, for peace, for justice, for truth, for democracy and for a clean and fair election,” Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of the opposition-ruled state of Penang, told Baharuddin’s family after the funeral.

“It’s a struggle we have to do together.

Let them not steal our children’s future, it’s a cry of the common people.” The dead man’s daughter, medical doctor Umi Mirza, added: “We are proud of him, he died in a struggle.” — AFP

MANILA: Filipino supporters offer flowers during a ceremony near the Payatas dumpsite in suburban Quezon City, north of Manila, Philippines, yesterday.

Supporters and family offered flowers at the site where a garbage dump collapsed 11 years ago killing more than 200 people. — AP

BEIJING: America’s top military officer yesterday urged Beijing to use its relationship with Pyongyang to ensure regional stability, while warning North Korea against further dangerous provocations. Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, stressed that Washington was in no way seeking to contain China’s dramatic rise, but that the US would remain active in the Asia Pacific region for a long time. “North Korea and the leadership of North Korea is only predictable in one sense and that is-if you base it historicallythey will continue to provocate,” Mullen told reporters after arriving in Beijing. “The provocations I think now are potentially more dangerous than they have been in the past.”

Tensions in Northeast Asia have risen sharply since South Korea accused the North of torpedoing a warship in March 2010, killing 46 sailors. Pyongyang angrily denied the charge but went on to shell a border island in November, killing four South Koreans including two civilians. Six-party nuclear disarmament talks, grouping the two Koreas, China, Japan, Russia and the United States, have been stalled since the North abandoned them in April 2009. It staged its second nuclear test a month later. “All of us are focused on a stable outcome here of what is increasingly a difficult challenge with respect to the leadership in North Korea and what it might do,” Mullen said. “ The Chinese leadership, they have a strong relationship with the leadership in Pyongyang and they exercise that routinely ... continuing to do that as they have done in the past is really important.” On a four-day trip to China, Mullen said he would discuss that and other issues in talks with his counterpart General Chen Bingde and while visiting military bases as the two nations seek to bolster their security cooperation. “The United States is deepening its commitment to this region and the alliances and partnerships that define our presence there,” Mullen said in a speech at Beijing’s Renmin University.

BEIJING: Admiral Mike Mullen, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, attends the “Cooperative Security and Regional Stability in Asia” meeting at Renmin University in Beijing yesterday. — AFP “We are, and will remain, a Pacific power, just as China is a Pacific power.” To help build trust with China, the US will conduct anti-piracy drills with China in the Gulf of Aden this year, host medical aid exercises and participate in joint disaster relief exercises next year, he said. “This region and the global challenges that we face together are just too vital and too vast for us to continue to find obstacles to a better understanding of each other,” Mullen told reporters. The trip coincided with a joint naval exercise that began Saturday with the US, Japanese and Australian navies in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese assertiveness over territorial claims has raised tensions. During his trip, the first to China by a US chairman of the joint chiefs since 2007, Mullen said he would also discuss the Taiwan issue, stability in the South China Sea and confidence-building measures between the

S Korea military to punish commanders for shooting SEOUL: South Korea’s military said yesterday it will punish two commanders for failing to prevent a shooting spree by a marine soldier last week that left four troops dead. A 19-year-old corporal last Monday opened fire at an elite Marine Corps. unit near the tense sea border with North Korea, killing four soldiers and wounding another.

The corporal, only identified as Kim, was also injured after detonating a grenade in an apparent suicide attempt. His condition is not life-threatening. A colonel and a lieutenant colonel from the unit at Ganwha island west of Seoul will be removed this week from their positions as commanders, the Marine Corps. said in a statement.

“The two will be waiting for further actions by the disciplinary committee,” a Marine Corps. spokesman told AFP, adding there was no plan to discharge them. The military last week arrested a private for allegedly helping Kim steal ammunition from a weapons storage room before the corporal went on the rampage at a barracks. Kim and the private, surnamed Jung, told military investigators they had hatched a plan after being constantly bullied and beaten by superiors, but Jung denied involvement in actual shooting.

Military psychological tests conducted about a year ago found Kim was mentally unstable and struggling to cope with service life, investigators have said. He had also been drinking before the shooting. The military plans to punish any soldiers found to have harassed Kim and Jung, MBN TV station and Yonhap news agency reported, citing navy investigators. — AFP

two nations. “Containing China is not the case ... we would like to see China in the long run to be a strong partner with the United States to resolve some of the issues that we have got both regionally and globally,” Mullen said. As tensions in the South China Sea mount, China-US military exchanges have also picked up, with the former US Defense Secretary Robert Gates meeting Chinese Defense Minister Liang Guanglie in Singapore in June.

Gates also visited Beijing in January. Gates warned last month that clashes could erupt in the South China Sea unless nations adopt a mechanism to settle their territorial disputes peacefully.

Mullen dismissed suggestions that wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya had left the US military unable to play a strong role in the Pacific, describing the idea of America in decline as “just dead wrong.” — AFP

Vietnam police break up anti-China rally HANOI: Vietnamese police forcibly dispersed an anti-China rally yesterday and detained at least 10 people, including journalists, after a series of protests over tensions in the South China Sea. Plainclothed security agents moved in to detain the small group of demonstrators almost immediately after they gathered within sight of the Chinese embassy in the capital Hanoi, an AFP reporter observed.

An unprecedented series of protestswhich are not common in authoritarian Vietnam-had taken place peacefully in Hanoi over the past five weekends during an escalating maritime dispute in the South China Sea. China and Vietnam have been at odds over the potentially oil-rich Paracel and Spratly island groups, which straddle vital commercial shipping lanes. While Vietnamese authorities allowed the earlier public protests as a means of expressing displeasure with Beijing, analysts said, they are now reining in the demonstrators after holding talks with China on the dispute. The arrests came about two weeks before Vietnam’s communist-controlled National Assembly convenes after nationwide one-party elections in May. The Assembly is expected to confirm another five-year term for Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, who is believed to be supported by the powerful security apparatus. Protesters struggled yesterday morning as the security men led

them onto a public bus, which had been on standby, and whisked them away to a police station. “We did not do anything!” they shouted.

Among those detained was a Vietnamese cameraman for Japan’s NHK television, who his company said was later released. Two other Vietnamese working for overseas news organisations were also held, but one was later seen leaving the police station, media sources said.

Tensions flared and protests began in late May after the Vietnamese accused Chinese marine surveillance vessels of cutting the exploration cables of an oil survey ship inside Hanoi’s exclusive economic zone. The first Vietnamese rally drew close to 300 people, but after that numbers dwindled to about 100.

Some protesters felt their actions were “in vain” after China and Vietnam held talks on June 25 in Beijing, one activist said. At the meeting, both sides agreed to resolve their territorial disputes peacefully “through negotiations and friendly consultations”, state media from the communist neighbours said. The official Vietnam News said Beijing and Hanoi “also laid stress on the need to steer public opinion in the correct direction”. That meant Vietnam must get a hold on the demonstrators, while China should control its media, whose comments on the maritime issue have upset Hanoi, said Carl Thayer, a long-time Vietnam analyst based in Australia. — AFP

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

ne ws Ahmadinejad calls to keep co-ed colleges Continued from Page 1 His perceived offense: Trying to expand the powers of the presidency to set policies and pick key government posts.

Dozens of the president’s allies have been detained since April, including four senior government officials last month. Some critics also accuse Ahmadinejad’s chief aide, Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, of leading a “deviant current” that seeks to undermine Islamic rule and even conjuring up magic spells to cloud the president’s mind. Last week, Ahmadinejad lashed back, calling the arrests a “politically motivated” attack on his government.

But there is little he can do except rage. The battles have shown clearly that Iran’s clerical rulers, headed by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, have no intention of giving up any controls and will dictate the direction of the next presidential election in mid-2013 - which Ahmadinejad cannot join because of term limits.

Ahmadinejad’s expected choice as successor - his ally Mashaei - appears to be blackballed from even getting on the ballot.

Although it appears the ruling system is happy to weaken Ahmadinejad, it doesn’t want to press too far and bring an all-out political rupture. Lawmakers opposed to Ahmadinejad wanted to bring him for questioning last month, but abandoned the effort after worries it could show too much internal discord to the world.

“If there was any question about whether Khamenei and the ruling clerics still held absolute power, they have answered it loud and clear,” said Sami Alfaraj, director of the Kuwait Center for Strategic Studies.

The campus ruckus is a test for one of the major initiatives by the ruling clerics after the large street protests over Ahmadinejad’s disputed re-election in 2009 - trying to weed out suspected “un-Islamic” elements from universities, which were considered hotbeds of dissent.

Islamic authorities have been tightening their grip on universities and schools as hardliners expand an ideological “soft war” against Western influence. In recent years, Iran has imposed restrictions on 12 university programs, mainly humanities and social sciences, deemed

too Western and incompatible with Islamic teachings.

Liberal and secular professors teach at universities around the country, but they are a minority. Most are politically passive and do not identify with either the hardliners or the liberal camp.

In his latest order, Ahmadinejad has also instructed his Cabinet not to let university professors be pushed into retirement any more. But his opposition to gender segregation could bring the most upheaval when classes resume in September. Although Iran follows Islamic rules such as banning alcohol and requiring headscarves, there is very little separation of sexes such as in Saudi Arabia or the Gaza Strip. Men and women in Iran work side-by-side in offices, couples pack cafes in trendy areas of Tehran and women serve in parliament. In November, the power ful Basij volunteer force announced its first woman pilot.

A campus divide would mark one of the most significant gender-based restrictions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. But hardliners insist Ahmadinejad cannot stand in the way of the ruling clerics. Grand Ayatollah Nasser Makarem Shirazi, one of the leading conservative scholars in Iran’s seminary city of Qom, said he “deplored” Ahmadinejad’s opposition and called it harmful to Islam. Ayatollah Reza Ostadi, Qom’s Friday prayer leader, suggested that Ahmadinejad is contributing to “corruption” by trying to block the gender separation on campuses. “After studies were carried out, it was decided to segregate male and female students at universities to reduce corruption, but the president has opposed it,” Ostadi said. “This is not fair.”

And another gender war could be brewing.

Reports suggest Ahmadinejad has renewed his push for women to attend football games at stadiums. In 2006, Ahmadinejad surprised his conservative backers by deciding that women could attend the matches, saying a female presence would “improve soccerwatching manners and promote a healthy atmosphere.” Ahmadinejad was overruled by Khamenei.

Some top clerics have also denounced sending Iranian women athletes to international competitions, calling it a “disgrace”. — AP

COLOGNE: Fireworks explode above the Rhine river and the Cologne Cathedral during the “Koelner Lichter” (Cologne Lights) fireworks festival late Saturday. The festival attracted hundreds of visitors. — AFP

35 dead as train derails in India

News of the World prints final edition

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1

crash site to help pull victims from the wreckage of twisted metal. The train, carrying about 1,000 people, was moving at near its top speed of 108 km an hour when it derailed, PTI quoted one regional railway manager as saying. The Kalka Mail train was travelling from Howrah, the main station for the eastern city of Kolkata, across India to the capital New Delhi when it left the tracks near the town of Fatehpur. “We were sitting in our seats when suddenly everything turned upside down,” said a male passenger inter viewed by the CNN-IBN news channel. “When the train stopped we broke the glass windows to jump out on the track.”

At nightfall, emergency teams

were still working to cut their way into two carriages to search for survivors. Officials said the death toll could rise and that an investigation had been launched. Late yesterday night, a second train derailed in the northeastern state of Assam, injuring at least 100 people, said S K Roy, a local magistrate.

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh “expressed deep sorrow and shock at the loss of lives” and promised all resources in the area would be deployed for rescue and relief operations, his office said in a statement. Anxious relatives and friends of the passengers gathered at Howrah and other stations along the line seeking information about their loved ones. A special train was scheduled to take families of victims to the accident site,

state officials said, while two military helicopters were also sent to assist.

In Assam, local police suspect that a remote control-triggered bomb caused four coaches of the Gauhati-Puri Express to be thrown off the tracks in the town of Rangiya, about 50 km west of the state’s capital, Gauhati, said local magistrate Roy. S Hajong, a local railways spokesman, said two of the four coaches plunged into a pond and casualties are feared.

Roy did not blame any rebel group and no one has taken responsibility for the attack so far. More than 30 groups in northeastern India have been fighting for decades for independence or wide autonomy in the region, about 1,600 km east of New Delhi. — Agencies

Late Saturday, Myler led staff out of the News of World’s offices in Wapping, east London, after an emotional day preparing the final edition. “I want to pay tribute to this wonderful team of people here, who, after a really difficult day, have produced in a brilliantly professional way a wonderful newspaper,” Myler told reporters outside. More than 200 staff now face an uncertain future after Murdoch’s shock and while Myler’s comments sparked cheers, some people were in tears. He held up the final front page, a montage of some of the paper’s best-known splashes and a message saying: “After 168 years, we finally say a sad but very proud farewell to our 7.5 million loyal readers.” Inside, the paper charted its finest moments under the banner “World’s Greatest Newspaper - 1843-2011”, from investigations by the “Fake Sheikh” to a controversial campaign against paedophiles.

“All human life was here,” the News of the World declared.

The 8,674th edition apologizes for letting the paper’s readers down, but stops short of acknowledging recent allegations that its journalists paid police for information.

“We praised high standards, we demanded high standards but, as we are now only too painfully aware, for a period of a few years up to 2006 some who worked for us, or in our name, fell shamefully short of those standards,” read a full-page editorial in the paper. “Quite simsites such as YouTube. Rights groups say that security ply, we lost our way. Phones were hacked, and for that forces have killed more than 1,300 civilians and arrested this newspaper is truly sorry.”

Stocks of the paper were running low at newspaper at least 12,000 since the anti-government protests began.

The pan-Arab satellite television channel has been in hot water with several autocratic Arab regimes over its coverage of uprisings sweeping the region since January. During the protests in Egypt that toppled presance comes with its own risks. “I do ident Hosni Mubarak, the channel was banned from Continued from Page 1 have problems with illegal maids,” operating inside the country and nine of its journalists Indonesians visas starting on Al-Harbi says. “One was sexually were briefly detained. In Libya, Al-Jazeera cameraman Ali Hassan Al-Jaber was killed on March 12 in an July 8. In 2009, the Saudi Shoura harassing my child, and I only found Council, the quasi-legislative body, out after she quit. I couldn’t take her ambush near Benghazi that the rebels blamed on recommended to the Council of to court.”

Muammar Gaddafi’s forces, and several Al-Jazeera jourSaudis prefer Indonesian maids Ministers new protections for expanalists have also been arrested covering the revolt. Also triate workers in the kingdom’s because they are devout Muslims, in March, Yemen evicted Al-Jazeera after it said footage labor laws. The Council has yet to easy to work with and industrious. of torture in an Iraqi jail was broadcast as having been approve the recommendation.

Although there are many examples filmed in the Arabian peninsula state, also the scene of But Christoph Wilcke, a senior where longtime maids become an anti-regime protests. Since its launch 14 years ago, pan- researcher for Human Rights integral part of a Saudi family, a Arab satellite channel Al-Jazeera has become a major Watch’s Middle East and North prevalent fear among many player in the Arab world, giving a voice to opposition Africa Division in Berlin, says there employers are maids teaching Saudi figures of various backgrounds. Founded in gas-rich has been no improvement in worker children their native language at the Qatar in 1996, Al-Jazeera - with apparently limitless conditions since then. “The Shoura expense of Arabic, theft and practicresources - has revolutionised the Arabic-language Council’s recommendation has had ing witchcraft to bring harm to the media and reporting on the Middle East, a region where no impact at all, either as a legal sit- family. state channels have dominated. Last May, Bahrain also uation because there is no law yet Justified or not, these fears create or as a signal to employers or the tension between maids and their banned the news channel. — AFP government to improve working employers. It also leads to exploitaconditions,” Wilcke told The Media tion of the maid with no time off and withholding salaries. “I have a Line.

Most Saudi employers prefer good relationship with my madam,” documented domestic workers says one maid employed in the because they are cheaper to hire Muhammad household. “But I know and the meeting.”

SANA news agency said the foreign ministry yester- than illegals. They also have com- many friends who never have free day summoned the US and French ambassadors to hear plete control over the employee. time and never see their money. “a strong protest against their visit to Hama without pri- Illegals can walk off the job anytime One friend works all day then her or authorisation... which constitutes a flagrant interfer- without consequences. Perhaps madam tells her to go play with the ence in Syria’s domestic affairs”. Both US envoy Robert most important for Saudi employers kids, although she’s exhausted.”

For decades, Indonesia enthusiFord and French ambassador Eric Chevallier visited is the ability to travel abroad with astically sent hundreds of thoutheir maids.

“I can hire an illegal Hama on Thursday amid repeated large demonstrations sands of women to Saudi Arabia to maid any time,” says Fauzia there. “This visit violates the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations which stipulates non-interference Muhammad, 47, a Saudi housewife work as housemaids. There is no in host countries’ domestic affairs,” SANA said. US State who employs three Indonesian work for them at home in Indonesia Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said Syria’s housemaids to help run her villa. and there are few jobs outside of “But I travel to Europe every year for domestic service available in Saudi authorities knew of the visit in advance.

At the height of the unrest, Assad announced the holiday and I can’t take an illegal Arabia. In April alone this year, dialogue in a speech on June 20, only his third since the maid with me. Hiring maids the Indonesian recruiters sent 58,335 protests erupted. A Facebook call for nationwide right way is my only option to con- workers to Saudi Arabia and 228,890 throughout 2010, accorddemonstrations against taking part in the dialogue trol my house.”

Hiring illegal maids presents a ing to Bank Indonesia. brought hundreds of thousands onto the streets on Wilcke says the visa ban will have Friday. Nearly half a million protested in Hama alone. whole new set of problems for SANA said Assad yesterday named Anas Naim as the employers, who face fines of 10,000 no impact on the flow of maids to new governor of Hama after firing Ahmad Khaled Abdel Saudi riyals ($2,700) if caught. Saudi Arabia. He notes that many Aziz on July 2, a day after huge anti-regime protests Fatmah Al-Harbi, a 36-year-old Indonesian and Saudi recruiters labelled the largest ever. Security forces killed at least 15 teacher, says she never hired a doc- develop informal procedures to get people on Friday and arrested more than 200 during umented maid because obtaining a around Saudi work visas by issuing the anti-dialogue protests, activists said. Human rights visa is a difficult and expensive visitors visas and have laborers groups say that since the anti-regime protests first process. She doesn’t want to take enter the kingdom from Dubai. “If broke out, the security forces have killed more than the risk that a maid will run away. there is ever a problem with the But taking the path of least resist- worker, she is not registered with 1,300 civilians and arrested at least 12,000. — Agencies

Al-Jazeera journalists face threats Continued from Page 1 At the end of the email, the sender posted an “indecent” fabricated photo of Shayeb threatening to post a full similar video on the Internet, she said. Another AlJazeera journalist, Gahda Oweis from Lebanon, told AFP she had received similar messages. Meanwhile, a presenter who spoke on condition of anonymity said: “I was forced to cancel my annual vacation which I usually spend in my country” due to the daily threats he had been receiving.

Al-Jazeera has held meetings with its journalists to reassure them of their safety and that of their families, said the source at the news channel. The broadcaster said in its statement that “these continuous pressures against it and against its journalists will only make it more determined to hold on to the professional editorial line it has followed. Syrian authorities accuse AlJazeera and other international satellite channels of exaggerating the protests and of broadcasting footage without verifying their authenticity.

But Shayeb rejected such accusations, saying: “We deal carefully with the material we receive. We only air videos which we have managed to verify.”

Because few foreign journalists gain entry to Syria, international media rely heavily on video footage filmed and released by the protesters themselves on Internet

Syria opens ‘dialogue’ with opposition absent Continued from Page 1 blood in more than one province, this meeting could not have been held.”

Sharaa also made thinly veiled threats against the protesters and suggested some received direction from abroad. “Arabs will not obtain their goals if they rely on foreigners,” Sharaa said. “Unauthorized protests that lead to unwanted violence will cause the fall of more civilians and soldiers,” he said. In a rare acknowledgment of the regime’s mistakes, Sharaa said demonstrations were triggered by “a great deal of mistakes ... that we swept under our carpets, without thinking deeply about the upcoming days”.

Dissident writer Tayyeb Tizini, who was among the few figures close to the opposition to join the meeting, expressed regret that the government had not halted its crackdown on major protest centres ahead of the dialogue’s launch. “The bullets are still being fired in Homs and Hama. I would have hoped that that would have stopped before the meeting. That’s what’s necessary,” Tizini told delegates. He called for the “dismantling of the police state”. “That’s an absolute prerequisite, because otherwise the police state will sabotage all our efforts to tackle our problems together,” he said. “ They should also have freed the thousands of detainees, some of whom have been in prison for years. That would have been a present for the people

kiosks yesterday, despite the final print run having been increased to five million copies to cope with demand, as Britons rushed to buy a souvenir copy. “I think it’s a bit of a shame since it has been around many, many years and it’s part of British culture but they were wrong for what they were doing,” Shareen Geral, a 26-year-old make-up artist told AFP as she picked up a copy at a London kiosk.

The “Screws”, as the News of the World is affectionately known, made its name with sensational scoops about sex, crime and celebrities. But it has been dogged by allegations of phone hacking for years and claims this week that a murdered girl and the families of dead soldiers were targeted turned the row into a national scandal. The dramatic events of the past week have intensified pressure on Cameron, particularly the arrest on Friday of his ex-media chief Andy Coulson, who edited the News of the World from 2003 to 2007 before working for the prime minister. The 43-year-old was detained on suspicion of involvement in phone hacking and illegal police payments and has been released on bail until October.

Cameron employed Coulson after he quit the News of the World in 2007, following the jailing of one of the paper’s journalists and a private investigator over hacking. Coulson has always denied wrongdoing, but he was forced to resign as Cameron’s director of communications in January this year because of ongoing hacking revelations. Rebekah Brooks, the head of News International and a former editor of the News of the World, has also faced calls to quit but Murdoch has given her his full support. — Agencies

Maids become battleground in Saudi Arabia the home country and has no copy of a contract or residency permits.

It’s hard to follow up,” Wilcke says.

He adds that workers arriving at shelters have difficulty receiving aid because the home country ’s embassy has no record of them.

Saudi Arabian authorities have also indicated that they plan to go elsewhere to recruit maids, including Bangladesh, Cambodia and Vietnam. Wilcke says these countries pose even more risks for potential housemaids because they have fewer protections from their home governments in place than does Indonesia. “There is little pre-departure training other than how to use an iron or a washing machine,” he says.

Countries providing labor to Saudi Arabia wield little clout to demand that Saudis provide protection for its workers. The laborexporting government can’t agree to a minimum wage standard, and this remains the weak link in developing a coalition to create labor standards that Saudi Arabia is willing to following.

Wilcke says the Philippines wants its workers receive a minimum salary of $410 per month.

However, Vietnamese workers are willing to work for as little as $130 per month.

Countries like Indonesia want worker remittances returned home to feed laborers’ families. Saudi Arabian salaries, for example, account for 44 percent all remittances to Indonesia. “Salaries are tricky, but these countries could agree on some issues, such as obtaining more access to the [Saudi] courts and agree on labor protections, such as helping set up a joint labor inspection system,” he said. Wilcke also suggests that countries providing laborers should employ more labor attaches at their embassies to handle the large caseload of workers seeking protection. — Media Line

14

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

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Issues

Arabic becoming the language of Facebook

By Arieh O’Sullivan ince it was launched in 2009, use of the Arabic Facebook interface has skyrocketed to reach some 10 million users today. At the moment, they represent about a third of all Facebook users in the Arab world, but it’s expected that within a year Arabic will overtake English to become the most popular Facebook language in the region.

Spot On Public Relations, a Middle Eastern publicity agency specializing in online social media, found that two times as many people log on to Facebook in the Middle East and North Africa than purchase a daily newspaper. “What’s fascinating for us is not Facebook’s overall growth in the Middle East but its growth in Arabic,” Alexander McNabb, director of Spot On PR told The Media Line.

According to their study, Arabic Facebook has grown about 175 percent a year, double the overall rate of the mushrooming use of Facebook worldwide. In some countries, like Algeria, it grew a whopping 423 percent annually. “Until recently, many marketers pretty much took for granted that the region’s Facebook users were English-speaking Arabs or expatriates, using Facebook in English and representing a fairly elite group of online consumers. It has become apparent that this is now far from being true,” the study found. “We can expect Arabic to become the most popular Facebook langue in the region within a year.”

The Arabic platform’s 10 million users make up about 35 percent of the region’s Facebook subscribers, up from 24 percent in May 2010. “The new phenomenon we are seeing is the growth in Arabic language usage, which in some parts of the region is truly phenomenal,” McNabb said. According to their figures, 56 percent of Facebook users in Egypt (3.8 million) opt for the Arabic language version. In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, 41 percent use Arabic and in Saudi Arabia it’s 61 percent.

By contrast, Morocco has 17 percent recorded Arabic users and at the bottom of the list is the United Arab Emirates, with its big expatriate population, with just 10 percent.

Social media is widely regarded as having played a crucial role in the Arab Spring, helping to organize protests and giving a voice to oppositions under autocratic regimes. According to the MENA Facebook Digest, the Middle East and North Africa is home to approximately 10 percent of the world’s Facebook users with some 56 million subscribers. This includes some 19 million who joined during the past year, a growth rate of 51 percent. “The Arabic language adoption is a sign that it is getting popularized and more and more people are getting online and they are using tools like Facebook to communicate,” McNabb said. “Today, twice as many people in the Middle East are logged on to Facebook than buying a newspaper. If you want to get the reach across the region to people, if you are promoting products or services then you have to advertise in 274 newspapers to reach the Middle East and North Africa,” he said. “Or you can use just one platform. And the daddy of the all in the region right now is of course Facebook.” “What’s really helping make the case is the whole Arab Spring and role of online media in that has really woken people up who otherwise have just been saying this isn’t worth taking seriously and that is was just a fad.”

Nabil Dajani, chairman of the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences and a professor of communications at the American University in Beirut, was dismissive about the impact of Facebook in the Middle East.

“Facebook and the Internet are really for the elites,” Dajani told The Media Line. “My assessment is that in the Arab world the Internet is still mainly being used among the upper-middle and upper classes and universities.

True the number of Internet cafes is increasing, but let’s not forget that illiteracy is still high and that Internet access is difficult and expensive.” Dajani said the eclipse of traditional newspapers has been long in the making, but he argued that this had little to do with the Internet in general and Facebook in particular. “Newspaper readership has been dwindling for a long time because they have focused on politics and people are fed up with that.

They want information about the average citizen and their problems and things they are concerned with. That is not available in newspapers so they don’t buy it. It’s not because of Facebook.” — Media Line

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

America’s problematic remote control wars

By Bernd Debusmann he United States is deploying missile-laden remotely piloted aircraft to kill enemies in six countries, scientists are working on ever more sophisticated military robots, and there are a host of unanswered questions on the future of warfare. Some of the more intriguing ones are asked abroad. Such as: “Is the Reaper operator walking the streets of his home town after a shift a legitimate target as a combatant? Would an attack (on him) by a Taleban sympathizer be an act of war under international law or murder under the statutes of the home state? Does the person who has the right to kill as a combatant while in the control station cease to be a combatant on his way home?”

This comes from a study by Britain’s Ministry of Defence and refers to the air war waged by US pilots who operate, from bases in the United States, heavilyarmed drones flying over Afghanistan or Pakistan 7,500 miles away. The Reaper is the workhorse of the drone fleet, which has grown from around 50 a decade ago to more than 7,000 today. It is increasing at a fast clip, unaffected by defense spending cuts in other areas.

Most of the drone missions for the military are flown from Creech Air Force base near Las Vegas. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) has a separate, covert, program that critics see as targeted assassinations. The CIA’s drones are operated from northern Virginia. The pilots, sitting in cockpits in front of television monitors, run no physical risks whatever, a novelty for men engaged in war.

Debate over the remote-control air wars - drones are

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now in action over Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, Iraq, Libya and Somalia - has been largely confined to academia and think tanks, both civilian and military.

But reports this week that the CIA had extended drone strikes to Somalia have prompted calls for a closer examination of where war ends and assassinations begin. It is not an issue, however, that strikes a chord with the public and US politicians are largely in favor of drone strikes. They are seen as an inexpensive way of targeting enemies, with no risk to the lives of American personnel. The downside to the seemingly risk-free elimination of Taleban fighters, Al-Qaeda militants and assorted other anti-American elements is of little apparent concern in the US. What downside? High technology and precision weapons notwithstanding, the “surgical strikes” drone enthusiasts like to talk about are on occasion anything but, resulting in “collateral damage”, the euphemism for dead civilians. Collateral damage tends to create more recruits to anti-American causes. Even without civilian casualties, remote-control warfare tarnishes the image of the United States, and the few close allies who use drones, in the countries where they are fighting. “The West ... is seen as a cowardly bully that is unwilling to risk his own troops but is happy to kill remotely,” the British study noted.

Such sentiments are unlikely to sway public opinion in the West, nor will they stop weapons developments that bring to mind an observation by the late science fiction writer Isaac Asimov more than four decades ago: “The saddest aspect of life right now is that science gathers knowledge faster than science gathers wisdom.”

Which brings us to aspects of 21st century war that go beyond the pros and cons of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), as drones are also known. While they are frequently referred to as “killer robots”, they are “human-in-the-loop” weapons, so named because a human being navigates the aircraft and pushes the button that fires the missile.

If and when to cut the human out of the loop - and open a new era of warfare - is a matter of debate between scientists. “It ... would be only a small technical step to enable an unmanned aircraft to fire a weapon based solely on its own sensors, or shared information, without recourse to a higher, human authority,” according to the British study. That would mean, in effect, outsourcing life-and-death decisions to computer programs controlling both aerial and ground-based robots.

Questions yet to be answered are complex and varied: How do you get a robot to tell an insurgent from an innocent? Can you program the Laws of War and the Rules of Engagement into a robot? Can you imbue a robot with his country’s culture?

If something goes wrong, resulting in the death of civilians, who will be held responsible? The robot’s manufacturer? The designers? Software programmers? The commanding officer in whose unit the robot operates?

The US president who gives the green light? A number of scientists alarmed by such unanswered questions last September formed a group, the International Committee for Robot Arms Control, that is pressing for an international debate on the regulation and control of armed military robots. The prospect of that happening looks remote. — Reuters

Fearful Syrians use coded language

By Raja Abdulrahim t home in San Fernando, California, in early last month, Hadia Al-Abdullah was watching an online video of a women’s silent protest in Damascus when she saw someone who looked like her 65-year-old mother.

She played it over and over to be sure. But when Al-Abdullah later spoke to her mother on the phone, the older woman didn’t mention anything about a protest. “‘I went out to buy a jilbab (robe),’” AlAbdullah recalled her mother saying. “That’s the code she used.” On another day, Al-Abdullah’s father complained that his wife was going to the “hospital” even though he had asked her not to. “If I need to go to the hospital again, I’ll go,” her mother said when she got on the phone.

In a country where the walls are said to have ears, Syrians have long erred on the side of paranoia. And from the beginning, the Syrian revolution has been marked by doublespeak. The regime’s official line on the protests - that they are the work of “armed gangs,” terrorist groups and foreign plots - belies the reality on the ground of residents rising up to demand the fall of the government. Many Syrians exist in a similar dual reality when it comes to what they experience and witness every day and what they are willing to tell the outside world, fearful that the secret police could be listening in or monitoring their emails or Facebook posts.

Although people are gradually becoming more frank, many conversations remain rooted in mundane topics in a country where even just acknowledging the revolution going on in the streets can be seen as risky. When protests first broke out in the Damascus neighborhood of Midan, state media said people had come out to celebrate

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the rain. Now some residents and activists will say there was “heavy rain” during a protest when referring to gunfire from Syrian forces.

“The coded language has been in existence for 40 years - it has been inherited from generation to generation,” said Al-Abdullah’s husband, who didn’t want his name used to protect his family in Damascus, the Syrian capital. “And that code has been transferred from verbal to electronic.” With no outside journalists permitted into the country, the fear barrier is one more way information about the uprising has been restricted.

Much of this trepidation about speaking openly is centered in

Syria’s two largest cities, Damascus and Aleppo, whose residents have yet to protest in large numbers like much of the rest of the country. “I will mention general things like the situation or if I’m talking to my sister I might mention a news item,” said one person who lives in a suburb of Damascus and declined to be identified. “But I don’t feel comfortable being explicit about what my opinion is.” Every closed society has its own code, said Radwan Ziadeh, director of the Damascus Center for Human Rights Studies and a visiting scholar at George Washington University. Syria has been no exception. “They use a lot of nicknames for the secret police” or jail, Ziadeh

said. “They say, ‘Do you want to go to “your aunt’s house’ or ‘They will put you in the bottle’. No one can mention the secret police directly.”

Initially protesters chanted vaguely for freedom and dignity, shielding the same goal as those who rose up in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya. Not until weeks - and hundreds of deaths - later did they gain the courage to directly demand the fall of the regime. The way people speak on the phone and what they’ll write in email has been slower to change. Even though on the streets protesters are at threat of being shot or arrested, there is still some sense of safety in the anonymity of a crowd. But the risk

An image grab taken from footage uploaded on YouTube shows Syrian anti-government protesters flooding the streets of the central city of Hama on July 8, 2011 to demand the fall of the regime President Bashar Al-Assad. — AFP

in expressing themselves openly is still too great for many when it comes to using phone lines and email accounts registered in their names. Paranoia and caution still have a way of plaguing even the bravest of activists. When activists speak on the phone to organize meetings, they use a term indicating an activity that is fun, said Mohja Kahf, a Syrian American author and professor of comparative literature at the University of Arkansas. She didn’t want the word published out of concern it was still being used. Months ago, Kahf was added to a Damascus Facebook group by one of her cousins.

On Feb 12, the morning after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak resigned, one member posted, “Good jasmine,” evidently referring to the uprisings in North Africa, billed by some as the Jasmine Revolution. Another, perhaps bolder, person wrote, “Good freedom”.

Kahf, unaccustomed to using symbolic language, asked, “You mean because Mubarak resigned?” She was kicked out of the group. “I get it - they want to still go out and protest, and if they say that, they’ll be in prison and can’t go out and protest the next day,” she said.

“They want to maximize the use of themselves.”

But sometimes the use of coded language speaks to more than just the deep layers of fear within Syrian society; occasionally it has been used as a way to mock the government. After the first protest began March 15, the regime called those who went out “conspirators”. Now people may ask each other, “When did you become a conspirator?”

Facebook pages have been created to honor “conspirators” as well.

“That is one of the great things of the Syrian uprising: They make fun of the language the government used,” Ziadeh said. “It’s something to be proud of.” — MCT

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

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Unusual legal skirmishes mark DSK case

By Stephane Jourdain ith the government’s case against former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn foundering, public criticism of the prosecutor by the alleged victim’s lawyer underscore problems if a trial takes place, legal experts say.

Prosecutors and victims, who usually do not have their own lawyers, often work hand-in-hand because in most cases “the interests of the victims and the prosecutor are closely aligned,” said Ian Weinstein, a professor at Fordham University School of Law in New York. But after Manhattan prosecutor Cyrus Vance revealed serious credibility issues with the accuser, a Guineanborn hotel maid, her lawyer, Kenneth Thompson, unleashed a furious assault.

Thompson said he feared the district attorney’s office was “laying the foundation to dismiss this case”. “Our concern is that Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance is too afraid to try this case. We believe that he’s afraid that he’s going to lose this highprofile case,” Thompson said on July 1 at an impromptu news conference. On Wednesday, Thompson wrote Vance asking that his office appoint a special prosecutor, citing both a “potential conflict of interest” and the fact that one prosecutor had “screamed at and disrespected the victim”.

Thompson said the conflict arose because the head of the prosecutor’s trial division is married to one of Strauss-Kahn’s

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lawyers involved in the case, a fact he said he first learned about in a New York Times article last month. “We should have been told about this matter by members of your office and not by members of the press,” Thompson wrote. Vance’s spokesperson, Erin Duggan, called the recusal request “wholly without merit”.

Weinstein said it is typical for victims to regard the prosecutor as his or her lawyer, even though that is technically not the case. “The American prosecutor represents the state and the public’s interest in justice,” said Weinstein. “The victim is only a private person in the criminal prosecution who may have a particular interest and some special access.” The hostility between Thompson and Vance, said Weinstein, “is not unprecedented, but it is unusual, and is a strong signal that the criminal case is very troubled and problematic”.

Normally, the usually close relationship between victim and prosecutor means the two would talk regularly during the run-up to a trial, notes New York University law professor Holly Maguigan. “Often the victim’s lawyer gathers facts and arguments that are useful to the prosecutor, and often the prosecutor requests the victim’s opinion on possible steps to take,” she said. But that is clearly not the case here - and not something that is necessarily helpful to either the prosecution or the alleged victim, says lawyer Vincent Sanzone, who argues cases in New York. “This guy is abra-

sive, causing a rift between the victim and the prosecutor,” he said, referring to Thompson. “He should be low key. It is very harmful for the rest of the case.”

In addition, the sexual assault charges against Strauss-Kahn could also lead to a civil suit as well, which could result in a potentially large monetary settlement. But the victim’s credibility is also crucial in a civil trial. “In this case, it seems to me that the DA may want to blame the victim for the collapse of the case in order to protect his public standing,” said Weinstein, referring to Vance. “ The victim, on the other hand, will want to blame the DA to protect her own reputation and by extension, the civil suit,” he added. The public spat between Thompson and Vance is, however, understandable, according to Stephen Dreyfuss, a New York attorney and former assistant prosecutor. “Cyrus Vance divulged negative information about the victim, something he was obligated to do,” he said. “Her lawyer thought she had been criticized, and he reacted. That’s what lawyers do.” — AFP

Where will Lukashenko find the cash?

By Richard Balmforth

ames Murdoch was not responsible for the phone hacking scandal that has engulfed his father’s media empire, but that will matter little if his handling of the case does not improve quickly. Tipped as heir to the empire, Rupert Murdoch’s youngest son is under pressure to show he can muster his father’s political touch to contain a scandal that is damning the family name and slashing by the day the value of media assets that have been in the business for decades.

So far, analysts say he has been slow to realise the enormity of the situation, or to show genuine humility over an episode in which his newspapers have been seen to harass the families of child murder victims, dead soldiers and bombing victims, all to generate stories.

“This is the most serious political crisis in a generation (for the Murdochs) - but as a business crisis it is immense and immensely more significant,” said Claire Enders, head of the Enders Analysis research group. By the time James Murdoch took over at News International, News Corp’s British newspaper stable, in 2007, the alleged hacking practices were over, but the scandal had hardly begun, and it fell to Murdoch this week to close the 168-year-old paper at the centre of the scandal. At the heart of the problem, Enders says, is a sense that, after years of wielding a peculiar influence over British politics, James Murdoch and the rest of his company do not know how to handle a situation where they are in the wrong. “This siege mentality is just not right,” she said. “They have got to accept

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that other people in the world have got something to tell them. But that is just not a personality trait one has ever seen from them. “Their attitude is ‘We are better, we’re different’, and I’m afraid the word ‘better’ is no longer going to apply if these allegations are proven.”

Born in 1972, James Murdoch dropped out of Harvard in 1995 to start a hip-hop record label and once billed himself as a professional cartoonist. Few then would have tipped him to overtake his elder siblings to stand in line to inherit News Corp. Just 12 years later, he took control of the Asian and European operations of News Corp, which wields influence from Hollywood to Hong Kong and owns not only Britain’s biggestselling paper, the Sun, but also the film studio 20th Century Fox, the US cable network Fox, the television network Star TV, publisher Harper Collins and the Wall Street Journal.

Whether he can match Rupert Murdoch’s consummate empire-building ability in the long term is yet to be seen, but James has already shown hints of sharing his 80-yearold father’s bullish approach to business.

Smart and clean-cut, James is capable of charming interviewers and the public, but inspires fear among many of those who work for him. He keeps a model of the Star Wars villain Darth Vader outside his London office.

“When James was in the building, you could almost hear the Darth Vader music,” said a former News International editor. “He came across on his TV interview this week as a nice, thoughtful guy. And he may be that. But he’s a scary man around the office,” said the editor, who declined to be named.

When News Corp’s Internet business was founded in the early days of the dot-com boom, James became president. But as boom turned to bust, he moved on to Hong Kong-based Star TV before becoming chief executive of BSkyB in 2003. That move was initially met with accusations of nepotism, but he quickly impressed analysts and investors by broadening the company from a pure pay-TV offering to include broadband and telephony.

But like his father, the younger Murdoch has courted controversy. He stirred up a storm in Aug 2009 when he used a keynote speech at a major TV festival for a blistering attack on Britain’s state-owned broadcaster, the BBC, echoing his father Rupert’s speech from the same platform 20 years earlier.

James was promoted to run News Corp’s international business from New York in March this year, a move seen as confirming his status as heir to the media empire. But he has still not moved from London, where all of his direct reports are based.

The younger Murdoch has always favoured the more profitable television and entertainment arms of the business over the traditional print media on which his father founded the empire. But growing popular and political anger over the voicemail hacking saga has raised the chances of a delay in government approval for News Corp’s bid to buy out the 61 percent of BSkyB that it does not already own. Prime Minister David Cameron’s right-of-centre government had already given informal blessing to the takeover, despite criticism that it gave Murdoch too much media power. Before the

controversy worsened, formal approval had been expected within weeks. But a decision now seems likely to take months.

“James Murdoch has not handled the situation well. He surely did know, certainly by 2008, what was going on,” Peter Burden, the author of a book on the News of the World, told Reuters. “The problem is they’re all very loyal to each other, the Murdochs and their people,” he said, in reference to the company’s decision to back Rebekah Brooks, a close confidante and editor of the News of the World at the time many of the offences were alleged to have happened. “James didn’t grasp the enormity of the situation. A few months ago he said ‘We’ve put it in a box now and it’s contained’, and of course he couldn’t have been more wrong.”

Beyond pure financial concerns, the Murdochs appear also to have also damaged their once untouchable position in British politics, where leaders of political parties openly courted Rupert Murdoch’s support.

Andy Coulson, a former editor of the News of the World who quit in January as spokesman for Prime Minister David Cameron, was arrested on Friday over the scandal. “They don’t understand that you can’t assume the kind of power they’ve had in this country without actually behaving as if you’re part of the fabric,” said Enders.

“And what that means is - if your employee becomes an employee of the prime minister, you have some responsibility towards that employee being a credit to the prime minister rather than a discredit. They don’t get that connection.” James Murdoch needs to show that he does. — Reuters

Engineer is expert on medical accidents

By Tom Avril s the surgical team began delicate heart surgery on a premature, 2-pound infant, the unthinkable happened. The baby boy suddenly became engulfed in flames. Doctors and nurses immediately doused the fire and tried to revive the baby at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, but it was too late. He died soon after. “We really aren’t sure what happened,” a hospital official said at a news conference. Mark Bruley, summoned to the scene from his lab across the country in Pennsylvania, had an answer in five minutes.

That case, more than two decades ago, was still fairly early in the career of Bruley, a biomedical engineer at the nonprofit ECRI Institute in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. Thousands of cases later, he has solidified his reputation as a premier investigator of medical accidents the world over - with a particular expertise in the rare, but horrific, problem of surgical fires. “He is the world’s expert on that problem,” said Jeffrey Feldman, division chief in general anesthesia at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. “There may be a couple of other people that have that expertise, but not a lot.” A genial, bespectacled fellow who sometimes wears a white lab coat and spouts medical terminology, Bruley, 57, could pass for a family doctor. But patients are unlikely to hear his name, let alone meet him. Hired in most cases by hospitals, he arrives soon after a medical mishap to conduct interviews and weigh the evidence — though often he can solve a problem by phone. He also advises regulators and law enforcement, here and abroad.

If there is fault to be found, he will try to find it, though he prefers not to put it that way. His goal is not to point fingers, but to improve medical devices and procedures and, thus, patient safety. He saw that the burned baby had been receiving oxygen through what is called a single-limb breathing circuit. He found that this had allowed oxygen to build up around the baby’s head, beneath the surgical drapes, whereas a double-limb circuit has a Y-shaped valve that would have carried it safely away.

Oxygen is not flammable, but it will make other things burn much faster. In this case, the light, fuzzy hair on the infant’s skin caught fire, along with the thin surface fibers on the drapes. Sparks from an electrosurgical cauterizing probe had ignited the blaze, and in the oxygen-rich environment, it burned with sudden fury. “The whole thing went up in a flash,” Bruley said.

Such investigations are one of many activities at ECRI, housed in a low-slung complex on a wooded Butler Pike, Pa., campus. Founded in 1968 as the Emergency Care Research Institute, it soon became known simply by its initials - pronounced ECK-ree - as the mission grew beyond emergency medicine. The nonprofit, which accepts no funding from device makers or drug firms, evaluates medical technology and procedures for safety, quality and costeffectiveness.

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A vice president in charge of accident and forensic investigation, Bruley regularly lectures on surgical fires. He estimates that they occur 600 times a year out of 60 million operations, causing 20 to 30 serious injuries, virtually all preventable. One of his key recommendations: When possible, give patients regular air instead of 100 percent oxygen. Bruley started at ECRI in 1975, after graduating from Temple University, but his first appreciation for medicine had come much earlier. He had surgery to correct a childhood condition known as “funnel chest,” in which his rib cage pressed on his heart. “My first memories of life are being in the hospital as a patient, having my chest cut open,” Bruley said. “When you’re 31/2 and alone in a hospital, it instills in you a certain sense of focused memory and independence.”

He got to hold his first brain at age 6. That happened when a playmate’s father, a Johns Hopkins University doc-

Mark E. Bruley, vice president of the nonprofit ECRI in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, has solidified his reputation as a premier investigator of medical accidents the world over. – MCT tor, invited the boys to his lab. An electronics buff, Bruley earned his ham radio license in sixth grade. And like many who become engineers, he was often taking things apart.

Now he does so for a living.

His lab is full of devices that didn’t work right - sometimes due to a flaw in the equipment, though more often because of the way it was used. Endoscopes that were not disinfected. A type of catheter that delivered too much microwave energy to the prostate, with disfiguring results.

A cranial drill bit that, when wrongly assembled, would penetrate the brain.

Near his lab is a fully loaded machine shop that would rev any tinkerer’s engine. A milling machine, two lathes, drill presses and industrial shears sit alongside custom analytical equipment - such as a dynamometer for testing

elarus President Alexander Lukashenko, in power since 1994 and once referred to by Washington as “Europe’s last dictator,” must find $3 billion by year’s end to prop up his heavily indebted economy.

That raises the compelling questions - How will he raise the cash and is his hold on power weakening? For many Belarussians, a financial crisis threatens a tough end of year in the shape of higher heating, public transport and education bills, possibly bringing wider social discontent. A 36 per cent devaluation of the Belarussian rouble has hit people’s savings. Hyper-inflation of consumer goods is a constant threat. Key exporters are starved of the dollars they need to buy spare parts abroad to make their goods marketable.

Lukashenko, 56, has brushed off talk of a crisis with typical bravado - he refers publicly only to “panic” exhibited by people seeking to hoard goods. But the speed and force used by police to crack down on sporadic peaceful street protests by young people suggest a high-level concern that discontent could spread. The former Soviet state farm boss, who has clung to a model that keeps all key economic levers in state hands, is likely to swallow his pride and make some limited selloffs, economists and diplomats say.

In the short term, that will most likely mean the sale of a chunk of Belarus’ gas transit system to big neighbour Russia, bringing in about $2.5 billion and releasing a new $400 million slice of credit from a Russianled bailout fund. But that will only buy a breathing space in an acute crisis that is narrowing the options for the authoritarian leader.

Due to a huge current account deficit triggered by wage and pension hikes last year in the run-up to Lukashenko’s re-election, dollars have drained from the system. Central bank reserves are perilously low, covering slightly more than one month’s imports. Key exporters like the industrial plant sector, for example, are critically short of the working capital needed to buy spare parts that will guarantee their goods a market abroad. The rouble’s devaluation last May, as panic set in, eroded the savings of those who were either not shrewd enough or quick enough to buy dollars. Price controls imposed on key foodstuffs have calmed the panic, but high inflation is still a reality.

But there are signs of growing anger. Motorists noisily demonstrated on the border with Poland last month when they were restricted to taking only a limited amount of petrol out. With the mainstream political opposition still in disarray after a police crackdown on Dec 19 during Lukashenko’s re-election, young protesters have also emerged in Minsk and other towns to challenge his leadership. Mobilising support online through social networking sites, they are now holding weekly protests at which they stand and clap. Alhough their numbers are relatively small, police are turning out in force every week, arresting them in droves.

There is no sign yet that the industrial workforce which provides the bedrock of Lukashenko’s support among the people - is ready to side with the online protest movement. But the general wisdom is that once summer is over, Belarussians will meet mounting bills for heating, public transport and other vital services when the mood could change. Ultimately, Lukashenko may have to make hard choices at home, holding down wages this year for instance, at the risk of straining relations with factory workers, diplomats say. “If he loses the workers, he is in deep trouble,” Jaroslav Romanchuk, a Minsk-based dissident economist, told Reuters.

The writing has been on the wall for the Belarussian economic model since 2007 when Russia reduced annual subsidies of between $6 billion-$10 billion mainly on supplies of oil and gas that kept it afloat.

Western economists and diplomats say Lukashenko, despite warnings by the International Monetary Fund and other lenders, has failed to undertake radical reforms that would allow market forces to begin to take root. Last year’s rises in public-sector pay, intended to meet a promised target of $500 for the average worker before Lukashenko went to the polls for reelection, were folly, economists say.

The result: cash chased imports as exporters bought dollars to finance purchases abroad, sending the already high current account deficit yawning wider.

Russia, far and away Belarus’s biggest trading partner, is pressing Lukashenko more and more to end his aversion to privatisations and sell off some state assets.

Although it has backed a $3 billion bailout to Belarus over three years by the Moscow-led EvrAzES fund, Russia has made it conditional on privatisations by Belarus worth $7.5 billion.

Belarus, which faces some potentially difficult repayments next spring on a 2009 IMF loan, has turned to the fund again with a request for $3 billion-$8 billion of new credit. Lukashenko’s rough handling of the opposition has made him a pariah for the United States and the European Union. Both are pressing him to release political prisoners if he wants to secure fresh IMF credit. But most observers believe the International Monetary Fund will eventually throw Belarus the lifeline it needs. “Privatisation and a new programme with the IMF seem to be the only possibilities. I think that eventually a combination of these two will need to materialise for a meaningful solution of the crisis,” said Ivan Tchakarov of Renaissance Capital.

The market is alive with talk of possible IPOs involving Belaruskali, the potash miner on which Lukashenko has set a value of $30 billion, and other key assets. But Romanchuk and some others question whether Lukashenko is committed to a large-scale privatisation programme or IPOs. “Lukashenko does not want open transparent auctions. His policy will be to give as little as possible because for him it means losing control over sections of the economy,” he said. “He’s trying to get as much as possible by giving as little as possible,” said one diplomat with several years’ experience tracking Belarus. But he cautioned against assuming that Lukashenko could lose control even if the crisis worsened. He has the loyalty of the security forces, judging by the harsh crackdowns meted out to protesters, and he is a shrewd manoeuverer within the system he has created. “He will take care not to alienate the work force,” said the diplomat. “Doomsday scenarios have been written many times here. They never take place.

All I would say is that the situation is much less predictable now,” he said. — Reuters

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James Murdoch faces biggest test as heir

By Kate Holton

Focus

motorized scooters, and a giant contraption for dropping large medical devices to see how easily they break.

Then there’s a vibration table, which Bruley and colleagues once used to simulate the flight of a C-130 transport plane. The goal was to learn why an anesthesia machine had become miscalibrated in flight, later causing a fatal overdose. ECRI’s finding, after such a machine was shaken for a few minutes: The vibrations were of just the right frequency to loosen a critical screw.

Despite the grim incidents he encounters, Bruley maintains an optimistic, can-do attitude. Yet he is down to earth.

“Compared to his brain, he’s not snobby at all,” said David Darnel, a biomedical engineer at Stony Brook University Medical Center in New York. Bruley also has a fun streak. He is an accomplished magician, performing as Magic Marcus, and is a devotee of land sailing. He uses the machine shop to build some of his rigs, equipped with giant kites that propel him across the dry beds of the Mojave Desert. He recently converted one to run on ice. Asked if he couldn’t just buy an ice boat, the engineer took mild offense: “What’s the fun in that?”

Someone once called him Sherlock Holmes, which Bruley found amusing enough that he taped up a small silhouette of the detective at his office. Fittingly, on one investigation in England, a colleague who worked with him was named Watson. Without question, he could make more money in the private sector than at a nonprofit, and there have been offers. But Bruley said he had never had the urge because he could have a greater impact on patients, and achieve more personal fulfillment, at ECRI. “I’ve been constantly learning since I got here,” he said.

Though his findings can be unfavorable to hospitals or device makers, he and his colleagues have earned respect.

“Some of the manufacturers get mad as hell at them, and my impression is that they don’t really care,” said Atlanta lawyer Judson Graves, who has represented device makers and hospitals. Ken Drake, a lawyer who represented Cedars-Sinai in the case of the baby who caught fire, said the hospital had welcomed Bruley’s results.

When the case went to trial, in 1992, a plaintiff’s attorney argued the hospital was at fault because the surgery had occurred in a patient-care room, not an operating room. But this was irrelevant, Bruley testified. The breathing circuit led to the fire, and the responsibility for that lay with the anesthesiologist, he said. That man was not a hospital employee, and the case settled for less than the plaintiffs had sought, said Drake, the attorney. (The anesthesiologist is dead.)

“Mark had a way of being very scientific in his presentation,” Drake said. “You really had the sense he was an objective scientist, as opposed to a highly partisan expert.”

Bruley does not seek out court cases - in fact, he and his ECRI colleagues turn most of them down. Unless, of course, there is new knowledge to be gleaned. Or the chance to take something apart. – MCT

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

sp orts Henry sticks with experience AUCKLAND: All Blacks coach Graham Henry signalled his intentions to stick with the tried and trusted for his World Cup squad after he named an expanded 34-man Tri-Nations squad with just one new cap in Otago Highlanders lock Jarrad Hoeata yesterday.

Much of the squad, which will be captained by Richie McCaw, was dominated by players who have formed the nucleus of Henry’s side since the 2007 World Cup with Ali Williams also brought back after two years out with repeat Achilles’ tendon injuries. Flyhalf Colin Slade was also included in the squad as a backup to Daniel Carter despite barely playing at all during the Super rugby season after he broke his jaw twice. The 27-year-old Hoeata, who has played for New Zealand Maori, impressed in Super rugby with his explosive intensity in contact and the tackle, aerial ability and work around the field. “He has gone down there (to the Highlanders) and been abrasive and been effective in the lineout and at scrum time and that’s what you want from your locks,” assistant coach Steve Hansen told Sky Sport’s Rugby Channel. “You want them to have a presence around the park.”

Former MVP Ward arrested ATLANTA: National Football League star Hines Ward was arrested outside Atlanta early on Saturday morning for drunken driving, according to authorities and jail records, but the Super Bowl-winning wide receiver denied he was drunk at the time.

Ward, a 35-year-old, two-time Super Bowl champion with the Pittsburgh Steelers, was arrested and then booked at 3:41 a.m. local time on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, according to jail records in DeKalb County, the jurisdiction in which Hines was arrested.

But Ward denies he was impaired at the time, according to a statement provided to Reuters by his manager Andrew Ree. “From our preliminary

investigation we can tell you that we are confident that the facts will show that Hines was not impaired by alcohol while driving,” the statement said.

“However, Hines is deeply saddened by this incident and apologizes to his fans and the Steelers organization for this distraction.”

He was released after posting $1,000 bond, according to jail records. Ward was drafted in 1998.

He has been selected for the Pro Bowl four times and is a former Super Bowl Most Valuable Player.

Ward is the all-time leader in career catches for the Steelers. He is also a previous winner of the popular competitive reality television show “Dancing With the Stars.”—Reuters

Agassi in Hall of Fame NEW YORK: Andre Agassi was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame on Saturday, almost five years after he retired from the game.

A former world number one who captured eight grand slam singles titles, Agassi was enshrined at a ceremony in Newport, Rhode Island, along with Fern Lee ‘Peachy’ Kellmeyer, a trailblazing administrator in women’s professional tennis. Agassi’s achievements on the court ensured he would be remembered as one of the sport’s greats but he tarnished his legacy with an admission in his autobiography that he used recreational drugs and once lied to escape a positive test.

Now 41, the American was in a reflective mood at his induction, admitting he made mistakes but was grateful for everything the sport gave him. “I fell in love with tennis far too late in my life. But the reason I have everything I hold dear is because tennis has loved me back,” he said. “If we’re lucky in life, we get a few moments where we don’t have to wonder if we made our parents proud. I want to thank tennis for giving me those moments.” Agassi won his first grand slam title at Wimbledon in 1992 and his last in Australia in 2003. —Reuters

Dodgers shut out Padres

NEW YORK: Yankees’ Derek Jeter hits a single as Tampa Bay Rays catcher John Jaso (left) looks on during the first inning of a baseball game. — AP

Jeter homers for 3,000th hit NEW YORK: Derek Jeter homered for his 3,000th hit and raced right past the milestone in a scintillating performance, going 5 for 5 with a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning that helped the New York Yankees beat the Tampa Bay Rays 5-4 on Saturday.

Jeter doubled and had three singles while starting a pair of Yankees rallies and finishing off their last one. He bounced a single through the left side his first time up to give him No. 2,999, then sent a no-doubt drive into the left-field seats off Rays ace David Price in the third inning.

That made Jeter the 28th major leaguer to reach 3,000 hits, one of MLB’s biggest milestones, and the first to do it with the Yankees.

It also set off quite a celebration in the Bronx, with teammates mobbing Jeter at home plate in a pack of pinstripes before he took a curtain call and saluted the sellout crowd of 48,103.

White Sox 4, Twins 3 At Chicago, Alexei Ramirez hit a gameending RBI single with two out in the ninth inning, sending Chicago to its first win over the Twins in seven meetings this season.

A.J. Pierzynski, who entered when catcher Ramon Castro broke his right hand on a passed ball in the eighth inning, doubled off Jose Mijares (0-1) to start the ninth.

After two fly outs, Juan Pierre walked and Alex Burnett relieved before Ramirez lined a single to center. Jesse Crain (5-2) got three outs for the win.

Rangers 7, Athletics 6 At Arlington, Texas, Josh Hamilton hit a game-ending, two-run homer to help the Texas Rangers beat the Oakland Athletics 7-6 and extend their winning streak to six games.

Hamilton connected on a 2-0 pitch from closer Andrew Bailey (0-2) with two outs in the ninth, sending a long drive into the second deck in right field. It was Hamilton’s fourth hit of the game, and his 11th homer of the season.

The winning homer comes during an emotional stretch for Hamilton, who two nights earlier tossed a ball into the stands toward a Brownwood firefighter who tumbled over the rail and fell about 20 feet to concrete below. The man died less than an hour after the fall.

Elvis Andrus reached on an infield single right before Hamilton’s homer. Darren Oliver pitched 1 2-3 scoreless innings to get the win. Coco Crisp and Josh Willingham homered for Oakland (39-52), which lost for the 12th time in 17 games.

Blue Jays 5, Indians 4 At Cleveland, Jose Bautista led off the 10th inning with his second homer of the game, lifting the Blue Jays to the victory.

Bautista, who leads the majors with 31 homers, connected on a 1-0 pitch from Chris Perez (3-2) after the Indians tied it in the ninth on Travis Buck’s two-out double.

The All-Star slugger has four multihomer games this season and 15 in his career.

It was Toronto’s second straight win in the series after a stunning loss on Thursday during which the Indians rallied for a 5-4 win on Travis Hafner’s game-ending grand slam in the ninth. Jon Rauch (3-3) got the victory and Shawn Camp pitched a perfect 10th for his first save.

Red Sox 4, Orioles 0 At Boston, John Lackey rebounded from the worst start of his Red Sox career with 6 2-3 shutout innings as Boston extended its winning streak to five games.

Lackey, booed last Monday as he left the mound after allowing seven runs in 2 1-3 innings, got a standing ovation as he strode to the dugout with runners at first and second in the seventh. Daniel Bard then retired Nolan Reimold on an inningending popup.

Lackey (6-8) struck out seven and walked one just five days after his 9-7 loss to Toronto, the shortest outing in his two seasons with Boston.

Alfredo Simon (1-2) allowed three runs in the fifth on an RBI double by Kevin Youkilis and a two-run double by Josh Reddick.

Royals 13, Tigers 6 At Kansas City, Alex Gordon belted a three-run homer as Kansas City roughed up Charlie Furbush to get the win. Alcides Escobar drove in three runs and scored three times for the Royals, who led 9-2 after three innings. Melky Cabrera and Billy Butler had two RBIs apiece.

Luke Hochevar struggled with the big lead and was battered for six runs before he was yanked in the fourth. Greg Holland (3-1) got the victory, and Everett Teaford pitched three innings for his first career save.

The 25-year-old Furbush (1-3), making his second career start, gave up nine runs in 2 2-3 innings - though just four of the runs were earned.

Angels 9, Mariners 3 At Anaheim, California, Torii Hunter drove in a season-high five runs with a pair of homers and Mark Trumbo also went deep as the Angels earned their 13th victory in the last 16 games.

Joel Pineiro (5-3) allowed three runs and 10 hits over seven innings for Los Angeles.

The right-hander is 3-0 in his last five starts, after going 0-3 in his previous four.

Seattle rookie Michael Pineda (8-6) gave up a season-worst seven runs and six hits in five innings, equaling his shortest outing in 18 starts. —AP

LOS ANGELES: The Los Angeles Dodgers got their first hit with two outs in the ninth inning and still beat the San Diego Padres 1-0 when Dioner Navarro singled in Juan Uribe for the unlikely victory. Uribe was down to his last strike when he drove a pitch from Luke Gregerson (2-2) over the head of left fielder Chris Denorfia for Los Angeles’ first hit and only the second hit of the game for either team. The Padres have never had a no-hitter in their 43-year history.

Navarro then looped a 3-1 pitch into short right-center to give the Dodgers three consecutive shutout victories for the first time since July 1991.

Los Angeles has won nine of its last 19 games, and seven of those victories have been shutouts including the last five.

Aaron Harang started for San Diego and worked six innings, finishing with six strikeouts and three walks. Josh Spence came on and struck out his only batter, Andre Ethier, before Chad Qualls escaped a jam to keep the game scoreless. Blake Hawksworth (2-2) pitched a perfect ninth for the win.

Braves 4, Phillies 1 At Philadelphia, Alex Gonzalez hit an RBI single and Brian McCann added a two-run homer in the 11th to lift the Atlanta Braves over the Philadelphia Phillies.

It was the second straight extra-inning game for the teams, following Philadelphia’s 3-2 victory in 10 innings Friday.

The Braves (54-37) have won 10 of 12, and closed the Phillies’ lead in the NL East to 21/2 games. Philadelphia (56-34) remains one win shy of tying the club record for victories in the first half.

Philadelphia starter Cliff Lee accounted for the Phillies’ only run with his first career homer off Tommy Hanson, but both pitchers were gone by the time this one ended.

Pinch-hitter Eric Hinske led off the 11th for the Braves with a walk off Michael Stutes (3-1), and pinch-runner Wilkin Ramirez went to second on Jordan Schafer’s sacrifice.

First baseman Ryan Howard could have gotten the second out, but failed to make a tough overthe-shoulder catch of Gonzalez’s foul pop fly. Two pitches later, Gonzalez lined a single to center, scoring Ramirez and putting the Braves ahead 2-1.

George Sherrill (2-1) worked out of a bases loaded jam in the 10th to earn the victory. Craig Kimbrel pitched a scoreless 11th for his 28th save.

Cubs 6, Pirates 3 At Pittsburgh, Ryan Dempster won for the first time in five starts as the Chicago Cubs beat the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Dempster (6-6) was pitching on nine days’ rest after being scratched from his scheduled start Monday because of back pain.

He allowed three runs on seven hits and three walks in five innings and was seen throwing equipment and arguing vehemently with manager Mike Quade when he was pinch-hit to lead off the sixth.

Starlin Castro went 3 for 5 with a run and an RBI for the Cubs, who have won two of three. A night after blowing his sixth save, Carlos Marmol pitched the ninth for his 19th save of the season.

Rockies 2, Nationals 1 At Washington, Ubaldo Jimenez allowed one run in eight innings and Todd Helton homered, doubled and drove in both runs as the Colorado Rockies beat the Washington Nationals.

Jimenez (4-8) retired the first 13 batters before Michael Morse singled with one out in the fifth inning. The right-hander struck out eight, allowed five hits and walked one. It was the third time this season Jimenez pitched at least eight innings, all coming on the road.

Huston Street pitched the ninth for his 26th save, giving up two singles. Jayson Werth grounded into a double play with runners on the corners to end the game.

Nationals starter Jason Marquis (7-4) allowed two runs on five hits in six innings, walking four and striking out one.

Marlins 6, Astros 1 At Miami, Ricky Nolasco tossed a seven-hitter for his sixth career complete game, Logan Morrison hit a bases-loaded triple in Florida’s four-run fifth inning as the Marlins beat the Houston Astros.

LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Dodgers’ Jamey Carroll hit a sacrifice bunt advancing Trent Oeltjen to second in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres. —AP John Buck added a solo homer for the Marlins, who tied a season high with their fourth consecutive victory. Morrison finished with three hits, and Nolasco (6-5) struck out eight and walked one in his second complete game of the season.

Houston has lost eight of nine. Brett Myers (39) allowed six runs, five earned, and four hits in 4 1-3 innings, dropping to 0-5 with an 8.17 ERA in his last seven starts against Florida.

Reds 8, Brewers 4, 10 innings At Milwaukee, Jay Bruce hit a solo homer to start the 10th inning and Cincinnati exploded for five runs to beat the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Reds, who also got a home run from Ramon Hernandez early, had lost six of their previous eight to fall a season-worst two games under .500 and appeared to be in trouble several times in this one.

But Bruce hit a towering homer off Marco Estrada (2-6) to right field, his 21st this season, and the Reds added four insurance runs in the inning by sending 10 men to the plate. Bill Bray (21) earned the win.

Cardinals 7, D’backs 6 At St Louis, Albert Pujols tied it in the eighth inning and rookie pinch-hitter Tony Cruz hit a game-ending RBI double in the ninth, capping the

St. Louis Cardinals’ comeback from a four-run deficit in a victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Pujols’ 18th homer, and first in five games back from a broken left wrist, was a two-run shot off Yhency Brazoban that tied it at 6. Pujols was 3 for 4 with a walk and three RBIs. Cruz’s first hit in six pinch-hit at-bats came off Joe Paterson (0-3), who gave up two hits and a walk. It’s the biggest comeback of the season for the Cardinals, who lost three of their first four with Pujols and dropped out of the NL Central lead.

Fernando Salas (5-2) worked a scoreless ninth with one strikeout for the win.

Giants 3, Mets 1 At San Francisco, Tim Lincecum labored through six innings to win for the second time in his past eight starts and Pablo Sandoval had two hits to extend his hitting streak to 20 games as the San Francisco Giants beat the New York Mets.

Nate Schierholtz and Aubrey Huff drove in runs in the first inning off Chris Capuano (8-8) to help assure that the World Series champion Giants would go into the All-Star break in sole possession of first place in the NL West for the first time since 2003. San Francisco has a two-game lead over Arizona with one game left before the break.—AP

MLB results/standings Major League Baseball results and standings on Saturday.

NY Yankees 4, Cleveland 0; Boston 16, Toronto 4; Cincinnati 10, San Francisco 2; Minnesota 8, Texas 1; Philadelphia 7, Chicago Cubs 1; Atlanta 6, Houston 3 (10 innings); Tampa Bay 7, Baltimore 5 (11 innings); Detroit 8, Seattle 1; Pittsburgh 3, NY Mets 2; Arizona 9, Florida 5; Chicago White Sox 3, Oakland 2; Milwaukee 5, St. Louis 3; LA Dodgers 11, Colorado 7; Washington 2, San Diego 1; American League Eastern Division W L PCT Boston 38 26 .594 NY Yankees 35 27 .565 Tampa Bay 34 30 .531 Toronto 32 33 .492 Baltimore 30 32 .484 Central Division Cleveland 34 28 .548 Detroit 35 29 .547 Chicago White Sox 32 35 .478 Kansas City 28 37 .431 Minnesota 25 39 .391 Western Division Texas 36 30 .545 Seattle 33 32 .508 LA Angels 31 35 .470 Oakland 28 38 .424

GB 2 4 6.5 7 4.5 7.5 10 2.5 5 8

National League Eastern Division Philadelphia 39 26 .600 Atlanta 37 28 .569 Florida 32 31 .508 NY Mets 31 33 .484 Washington 29 36 .446 Central Division St Louis 38 28 .576 Milwaukee 37 28 .569 Cincinnati 34 32 .515 Pittsburgh 31 32 .492 Chicago Cubs 25 38 .397 Houston 24 41 .369 Western Division San Francisco 36 29 .554 Arizona 35 30 .538 Colorado 31 33 .484 LA Dodgers 30 36 .455 San Diego 29 37 .439

2 6 7.5 10 .5 4 5.5 11.5 13.5 1 4.5 6.5 7.5

Miyazato leads storm hit US Women’s Open

Mika Miyazato

COLORADO SPRINGS: Heavy rain and thunderstorms washed out the third round of the U.S. Women’s Open on Saturday after Japan’s Mika Miyazato had grabbed the halfway lead.

Only a handful of players managed to start their third rounds before play was halted, then eventually abandoned for the day because of dangerous lightning storms rolling in from the nearby mountains.

Tournament officials, who only completed the second round on Saturday because of foul weather on Friday, scheduled early tee-off times for Sunday in the hope of completing the final two rounds.

But with more bad weather forecast, a Monday finish is looming large for the third women’s major of the year, on the East Course at The Broadmoor.

Miyazato completed a second round four-under-par 67 Saturday to grab the halfway lead with a 36-hole total of five-under 137 that left her one stroke clear her of nearest rival, fellow Japanese professional Ai Miyazato, who fired a 68. Despite sharing the same name and coming from the same Japanese Prefecture of Okinawa, the pair are unrelated, but are close friends. Ai is a former world number one with 22 professional wins to her credit while Ai has won just once, on the Japan

Tour. “Everybody thinks we’re sisters,” Mika said. “That way everyone remembers me because Ai plays so great, so that’s good for me.”

South Korea’s Kim In-kyung, who led overnight when play was suspended by darkness, slipped back to outright third at three-under after a 69 but still feeling good about her chances.

“I’m very excited,” said Kim, who tied for third in 2008 and 2009 and finished fourth last year.

“I’ve been close a couple of times the last few years and I think I’ve learned a lot from it.”

Stacy Lewis, the winner of the first major of the season at the Kraft Nabisco, was tied for fourth with fellow American Ryann O’Toole at one-under after she had led by three but finished poorly.

“I’m pretty disappointed with the way I played the last five or six holes,” Lewis said. “It was playing hard and I just didn’t hit any fairways. But my caddy told me ‘you’re in it, we still got two more days, two more rounds and you’re still right there.’”

World number one, Taiwan’s Yani Tseng, finished nine shots off the pace after her second straight 73 while the defending champion, American Paula Creamer, was in a six-way tie for sixth at even par. —Reuters

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Super rugby final could be portent for World Cup WELLINGTON: An expanded Super rugby season ended with a new champion, a resurgence of rugby in Australia and question marks again hanging over New Zealand sides’ inability to close out important matches, all of which could have World Cup repercussions.

A record crowd of 52,113 were brought to their feet on Saturday when Wallabies scrumhalf Will Genia’s electric 65-metre burst late in the second half gave the Queensland Reds a vital 18-13 lead over the Canterbury Crusaders, which they held on to for their first Super rugby title.

The win by the Reds, a side made up of mostly youngsters blooded under former coach Phil Mooney and brought to

maturity by Ewen McKenzie, was highlighted by a stirring defensive effort as they tackled themselves to a stand-still.

They also seized what little chances they had as the Crusaders forwards constantly upset the attacking platform that Genia and Quade Cooper had enjoyed for most of the season and it was hardly surprising the Reds tries-both of which were sparked by Genia-came from broken play.

The Crusaders only had themselves to blame for their loss. They dominated territory and were camped in the Reds’ 22 for sustained periods, but made far too many errors-most of which occurred at times when there was the suggestion a converted try would have given them

the momentum to kill the game off.

The Reds’ victory, however, could be seen as a portent of what is to come in just under two months when the World Cup begins in New Zealand.

Australia’s Tri-Nations squad named on Sunday included the explosive Digby Ioane, the mercurial pairing of Genia and Cooper, fullback Kurtley Beale and utility James O’Connor, which should provide enough of an attacking X-factor for Robbie Deans in New Zealand.

Combined with the patient and patterned play provided by the New South Wales Waratahs forwards, as well as the stronger scrummaging from loosehead prop Benn Robinson and hooker Tatafu Polota Nau, the Wallabies blend is start-

ing to look ominously competitive.

The Crusaders, meanwhile, provided 12 of the All Blacks’ official 30-man TriNations squad that was also named on Sunday, and the team that has created the template for ruthless efficiency in Super rugby showed signs on Saturday of being caught in the headlights with nowhere to run.

Some of the All Blacks’ most senior players, including flyhalf Daniel Carter and captain Richie McCaw, made basic errors or appeared off the pace in a seething cauldron akin to what they will face on home soil in October when the World Cup reaches the knockout stage.

Fatigue could be blamed for their failure at the final hurdle-the nomadic

Crusaders had travelled more than 100,000 kilometres during the season after the Feb. 22 earthquake destroyed their home base of Christchurch.

McCaw, however, refused to accept that as a factor- stating after the game they were well prepared and more than ready to face the Reds in the final.

The All Blacks captain did believe “one or two mistakes” had cost them, though the worrying thing for All Blacks fans is that a young and vastly less experienced Reds side grew in confidence and managed to exploit those mistakes.

Mistakes that coach Graham Henry must eliminate if the All Blacks are to have any hope of winning the World Cup for the first time in 24 years.—Reuters

Edwards gets debut ton as Windies battle

ATLANTIC CITY: Akifumi Shimoda of Japan, is knocked to the canvas in the seventh round by Rico Ramos for the WBA Super Bantamweight Championship.—AP

Ramos KOs Japan’s Shimoda ATLANTIC CITY: Unbeaten American Rico Ramos knocked out Japan’s Akifumi Shimoda in the seventh round on Saturday to win the World Boxing Association super bantamweight crown.

Ramos flattened the 26-year-old southpaw from Sapporo with one punch, a powerful left hook to the jaw that sent Shimoda to the canvas.

Shimoda tried to rise and at the count of nine found his feet only to wobble and stagger sideways and stumble down to the mat again on his back as referee Benjy Esteves counted him out after two minutes and 46 seconds of round seven.

“I can’t believe it,” Ramos said. “I didn’t think the hook was going to land. I didn’t think I was going to knock him out.” Ramos improved to 20-0 with his 11 knockout while Shimoda fell to 23-3 with one drawn, failing in his bid to be the first Japanese world champion to defend his crown at a US venue by losing for only the second time in 14 fights.

Shimoda, making his first defense of a title

he captured in January with a unanimous 12round decision in Tokyo over Japan’s Ryol Li Lee, controlled the pace of the fight in the opening rounds.

The Japanese fighter was aggressive and used his left hand to the body to initiate exchanges and score with combinations.

But when the fighters’ heads came together in the fifth round, a cut opened above the right eye of Ramos, making him worry that the fight might be stopped early and forcing him to become more aggressive. Ramos pressed the attack and took advantage of his first opening to win the crown.

“After the fifth I felt him getting tired and I knew I had to go for it,” Ramos said. “I got cut and had to go for it before they stopped it.

Had to get this belt. I’m glad he came to the United States but I’m keeping this in the United States.”

Ramos came into his first world title fight off the longest fight of his career, a 10-round unanimous decision triumph over Mexican southpaw Alejandro Valdez in February.—AFP

NAGOYA: Mongolian-born grand champion, or yokosuna, Hakuho (left) pushes Tochinoshin (right) from Georgia out of the ring during their bout on the first day of the 15-day Nagoya Grand Sumo tournament.—AP

Sumo tries to bury murky past TOKYO: Sumo held its first full tournament in six months yesterday following a hugely damaging bout-fixing scandal that infuriated the public and forced the resignations of 22 wrestlers and one stablemaster.

The 15-day showpiece comes after the Japan Sumo Association had to cancel a a tournament in March following revelations that some wrestlers exchanged mobile text messages to fix bouts in the ancient national sport. The biggest scandal to ever face the sport saw a May tournament become a “forum to evaluate the skills” of wrestlers, and invited fans to watch for free.

“We apologise for the troubles and worries we have caused,” Hanaregoma, chairman of the association, said in an address to hundreds of fans at the Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium in Nagoya.

“During this tournament, wrestlers will give all their strength and skills to stage exciting sumo. I am sure this will meet your expectations,” Hanaregoma said.

Sumo has long been under suspicion over allegations that bouts were rigged, but no active wrestler had acknowledged guilt until earlier this year when a number of incriminating text messages surfaced as police probed another scandal involving wrestlers placing illegal baseball bets.

It was the latest blow to the traditionbound sport, which has been shaken by a series of recent scandals, including illegal drug use and brutal training methods that resulted in the death of a teenage apprentice.

Some wrestlers and stablemasters also reportedly have ties with organised crime groups. Retired wrestler-turned-sports commentator Shuhei Mainoumi tried to rally a sceptical public, telling the national television network NHK: “We must not end this tradition of 1,000 years, 1,400 years.

“We must continue and pass on this tradition of Grand Sumo, of which Japan is so proud.” Mongolian grand champion Hakuho is again the strong favorite in Nagoya.—AFP

MIAMI: Kirk Edwards hit a century on his test debut on Saturday to give West Indies faint hope of saving the third and final test with India at Dominica. Edwards, a 26-year-old from Barbados, blasted 110, the highest score by a West Indian on debut for nearly 40 years, as the home side reached 224 for six when stumps were drawn on the fourth day.

Thet left them with a slender overall lead of 81 runs with four second-innings wickets remaining after India captured three scalps near the close to take control.

India lead the three test series 1-0 and while West Indies theoretically still have a chance of levelling the series, the tourists will surely fancy their own chances of ending on a high with a second test victory.

The only glimmer of hope for West Indies is that Shivnarine Chanderpaul, who in this test broke the record for most test appearances for the Caribbean team, is still at the crease having made an ultra-patient 73 from 201 balls.

Skipper Darren Sammy will resume with Chanderpaul Sunday and with only the tail to come he will need to produce a real captain’s innings if they are to set India a challenging target. It could have been a different situation had Indian not picked up those three wickets late in the final session. Edwards finally went caught behind off Harbhajan Singh after becoming the 13th West Indian to score a century on his debut.

His 110 was the highest score on debut by a West Indian sinceLawrence Rowe made a double hundred against New Zealand in 1972.

“It is a special feeling to get a test century on debut for the West Indies but I would have liked to carry on and make a bigger score for the team,” Edwards said.

“Test cricket is about fighting and I see myself as a fighter. We have a lot of fighting characters in the team and we will continue the fight in this

match.” Marlon Samuels lasted just three balls, trapped leg before wicket by Harbhajan and then wicketkeeper Carlton Baugh was a victim of the new ball, pushing a simple catch to Abhinav Mukund off Praveen Kumar.

It was a soft end to what had been a solid and gritty recovery from West Indies after India had made early inroads before lunch.

Kieran Powell edged Ishant Sharma to Suresh Raina at third slip and then fellow opener Adrian

Barath also played at a ball he could have left alone, diverting a Kumar delivery to Virat Kohli at fourth slip. After the inter val, Harbhajan snapped up Darren Bravo for 14, caught by Kumar at mid-off as he tried to drive.

It was however a good day for Barbadians named Edwards - pace bowler Fidel ended with a five-wicket haul after rattling through the Indian tail early in the morning session to end the tourists’ first innings at 347 all out.—Reuters

ROSEAU: West Indies’ Shivnarine Chanderpaul (right) and Fidel Edwards (left) run between wickets during the fifth day of the third cricket Test match against India.—AP

Dilshan rues England series that got away MANCHESTER: Sri Lanka skipper Tillakaratne Dilshan was left reflecting on what might have been after a tense 16run defeat at Old Trafford condemned his side to a 3-2 oneday series defeat by England. The World Cup finalists had been 2-1 after convincing wins at Headingley and Lord’s but suffered a 10-wicket thrashing at Trent Bridge on Wednesday, where they were skittled out for just 174, and then saw England captain Alastair Cook make 95 not out.

It was much closer contest at Old Trafford on Saturday where a match of fluctuating fortunes saw England recover to make 268 for nine after Cook won the toss.

Sri Lanka then collapsed to 29 for three in reply, with opener Dilshan out for just four, before a sixth-wicket stand of 102 between Angelo Mathews (62) and Jeevan Mendis (48) gave the islanders hope of victory.

But it was not to be, seamer Jade Dernbach striking twice in two deliveries as England won with 10 balls to spare. It was a frustrating finale after Sri Lanka had also lost the preceding and rain-marred three-Test series 1-0 on account of a last day collapse in the Cardiff to 82 all out to hand England an innings and 14-run victory.

“In the last two months we’ve played some good cricket,” said Dilshan. “We lost the Test series in one hour and again in this one-day series lost three matches in about the first six overs of our batting. I think we can be a much better side than that,” added the captain, who in March was a member of the Sri Lanka side that thrashed England by 10 wickets in a World Cup quarter-final in Colombo.

Dilshan, who made 193 in the drawn second Test at Lord’s only to have his thumb broken that innings, was deeply dejected by his own one-day series return of just 17 runs in five matches.

But he took heart from the likes of 21-year-old Dinesh Chandimal, who made 54 at Old Trafford and topped Sri Lanka’s one-day series batting averages with 164 runs at 54.66 including an unbeaten 105 in a six-wicket win at Lord’s. “As a captain I didn’t get any runs and I’m really disappointed with that,” he said. “We had a big issue in the last three or four years with the middle order not doing well for Sri Lanka. “The top order was always getting runs but now we have more confidence in the middle order and that is good for the future. We can look forward to the upcoming series with the youngsters.”

Cook was named man-of-the-series for a return of 298 runs at 74.50 including a career-best 119 at Lord’s. “He’s scoring a lot of runs in Test cricket and he’s come into the one-dayers with confidence,” said Dilshan, whose side conclude their tour with one-day internationals against Ireland and Scotland in Edinburgh next week.

“He isn’t a bad one-day player and batted really well for his man-of-the-series award.” England’s next challenge sees them at home to India, the world’s number one ranked Test side and the team that beat Sri Lanka in the World Cup final, for Test and one-day series starting later this month. “India are playing good cricket in the last couple of years and England are also playing well,” said Dilshan. “It will be a good series and I think it’s a fifty-fifty call who will win.”—AFP

SCOREBOARD ROSEAU: Scoreboard at stumps on the fourth day of the third Test between West Indies and India yesterday at Windsor Park: West Indies 1st innings 204 (C. Baugh 60; I. Sharma 5-77) India 1st innings (overnight 308 for six) A. Mukund c Barath b Bishoo 62 M. Vijay c Baugh b F. Edwards 5 R. Dravid b Sammy 5 V. Laxman st Baugh b Chanderpaul 56 V. Kohli c Baugh b Sammy 30 S. Raina lbw b F. Edwards 50 M.S. Dhoni c Bishoo b F. Edwards 74 Harbhajan Singh c Baugh b F. Edwards 12 P. Kumar c Samuels b Bishoo 23 I. Sharma c Barath b F. Edwards 2 M. Patel not out 4 Extras (b8, lb3, w3, nb10) 24 Total (all out) 347 Fall of wickets: 1-13 (Vijay), 2-18 (Dravid), 3116 (Mukund), 4-168 (Kohli), 5-172 (Laxman), 6275 (Raina), 7-308 (Harbhajan Singh), 8-339 (Dhoni), 9-343 (Kumar), 10-347 (Sharma) Bowling: F. Edwards 28.2-3-103-5 (nb2, w1); Sammy 28-7-51-2 (w1); Bishoo 38-2-125-2 (nb6); K. Edwards 4-0-19-0 (nb2, w1);

Chanderpaul 10-0-38-1.

Overs: 108.2 West Indies 2nd Innings A. Barath c Kohli b Kumar 6 K. Powell c Raina b Sharma 4 K. Edwards c Dhoni b Harbhajan Singh 110 D.M. Bravo c Kumar b Harbhajan Singh 14 S. Chanderpaul not out 73 M. Samuels lbw b Harbhajan Singh 0 C. Baugh c Mukund b Kumar 10 D. Sammy not out 1 Extras (b5, nb1) 6 Total (6 wkts) 224 Fall of wickets: 1-8 (Barath), 2-10 (Powell), 340 (Bravo), 4-201 (K. Edwards), 5-201 (Samuels), 6-223 (Baugh) Bowling: Kumar 15-5-29-2; Sharma 16-4-38-1; Patel 17-3-58-0 (nb1); Harbhajan Singh 25-661-3; Raina 8-1-19-0; Mukund 2-0-14-0.

Overs: 83 Position: West Indies lead by 81 runs with four second innings wickets standing

Edwards urges fans to back young W Indies ROSEAU: West Indies batsman Kirk Edwards used the occasion of his maiden Test hundred to urge long-suffering Caribbean fans to continue giving support to their youthful side.

Edwards scored a Test century on debut on Saturday, christening Windsor Park, Test cricket’s newest venue, with a composed 110 on the fourth day of the third Test against India.

It is unlikely to halt an Indian victory but it at least gave an indication of the talent that is coming through in the Caribbean as the West Indies attempt to build a side that can stand comparison with the great teams of the 1970s and 1980s. “In all fairness to people, they have seen West Indies win, and then it’s hard to swallow us losing, so I am not angry with them, I sympathise with them,” he said.

“I understand life in a different way, I just think the youngsters (in the team) need support.

We won’t come on the stage, and ‘boom’ get success. We need the support of the people.

“I had a great reception from the crowd in Dominica. It’s great here. I was really impressed and happy with the support that we received and the way the crowd supported us really urged us on.”

Edwards became the 13th West Indian to score a hundred on his Test debut, his innings anchoring West Indies to 224 for six in their second innings at the close - an overall lead of just 81. He said he understood the weight of expectation that would follow his innings. “I am self-

inspired,” he said. “I know what I want to achieve, and I know how I want to get there.

“There will be obstacles, but I always aim for my goals. I take all the negatives and try to turn them into positives. “The more people tell me ‘I can’t, I can’t’, the more I try to go out and give my best, and prove them wrong and show I can.”

The 26-year-old Edwards shared a 161-run, fourth-wicket partnership with veteran Shivnarine Chanderpaul, leading a West Indies recovery after the home team were wobbling on 40 for three. He was cheered by a vocal crowd of over 7,000 fans — including his father and biggest fan Glendon, who made the trip from neighbouring Barbados.

“It is a special feeling to get a Test century on debut for the West Indies, but I would have liked to carry on, and make a bigger score for the team,” he said. “Test cricket is about fighting, and I see myself as a fighter. We have a lot of fighting characters in the team, and we will continue the fight in this match.”

He added: “I’m always prepared mentally. I visualise what I want, and I go after it. I want to be a pillar in West Indies cricket, so all these things drive me to achieve my goals. “As a batsman, I bat time. I go about it to bat ball by ball, session by session. When you do that the runs will come. It is a matter of spending time at the crease and building an innings.” Edwards also spoke of the players he admired and those who inspired him as a boy growing up. —AFP

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Liu sets new Asian Championships record KOBE: Chinese star hurdler Liu Xiang set a new Asian Athletics Championships record in the 110metre hurdles yesterday in Kobe to successfully defend his title with something to spare.

The former world record holder, who turns 28 on Wednesday, clocked a new championship best time of 13.22 seconds to beat his compatriot Shi Dongpeng, who came home in 13.56, and Park Taek-Yong of South Korea in 13.66.

It was a repeat performance of the Asian Games last year, when the three finished in the same places. It was the injury-prone Liu’s fourth victory out of four Asian championships, following triumphs in 2002, 2005 and 2009.

In the women’s 200m, Japan’s Chisato Fukushima added another continental title to her Asian Games gold medal when she finished first in 23.49 seconds. Gretta Taslakian of Lebanon was second in 24.01 and Saori Imai of Japan third in 24.06.

“I’m happy to win the title, but this is not good enough for the world championships,” admitted Fukushima, who became only the fourth sprinter to win both the Asian Games and the Asian Championships.

“I made several mistakes today. I think I can run faster. I’m going to improve further so that I can compete against top runners in the world in the remaining one month,” she added.

The men’s 200m title went to Femi Seun Ogunode of Qatar, also the Asian

Games champion, who clocked 20.41 seconds to beat Japan’s Hitoshi Saito in 20.75 and Omar Juma Bilal Alsalfa of the United Arab Emirates in 20.97.

World bronze medallist Yukifumi Murakami of Japan also set a new championship record and a personal best of 83.27m to win the men’s javelin, beating Park Jaem-Young of South Korea and Ivan Zaitcev of Uzbekistan.

China’s Su Xiongfeng survived a tough battle against Supanara

Sukhasvasti Na Ayudhaya of Thailand and Rikiya Saruyama of Japan to win the men’s long jump with a mark of 8.19m.

In the women’s action, Thanh Hang Truong clinched Vietnam’s only gold medal to win the 800m in 2:01.41 and Minori Hayakari of Japan won the 3000m steeple chase.

Japan dominated the relay events, winning all four races in the men’s and women’s 4x100m and 4x400m to wind up the four-day competition.—AFP

Serbia beat Sweden to set-up Argentina semi

Female shooters in a joint picture with shooting official

Shooting tournament concludes

By Abdellatif Sharaa KUWAIT: The late Sheikh Sabah AlSalem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah Shooting tournament concluded on Saturday, at the Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex. The tournament, which was held under the patronage of Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem AlHumoud Al-Sabah, was in skeet and trap for men, and 10 meter pistol and rifle for men and women. Secretary General of Kuwait and Arab Shooting Federations Obeid Al-Osaimi, KSSC Treasurer Essa Butaiban, Assistant Treasurer Adnan Al-Ibrahim and Board Member Dr. Nidal Al-Sayyed Omar were present at the closing ceremony.

Obeid Al-Osaimi welcomed those present at the closing ceremony of the first tournament of the new shooting season of Sheikh Saad Olympic Shooting Academy.

Al-Osaimi thanked the patron of this tournament which carries the name of a dear Kuwaiti personality who gave Kuwait a lot and contributed to its progress and laid the first pillars of its development.

He said Kuwait Shooting Community thanks President of Kuwait and Asian Shooting Federations and Vice President of ISSF and his brothers for sponsoring this tournament.

Results of the tournament are: Skeet Men: Ahmad Al-Muwaizri Jassem Al-Anjari Khalid Al-Ajmi Trap Men:

Sultan Al-Daihani Abdelaziz Al-Khubaizi Mushari Al-Fadhalah

Skeet Juniors:

Musaed Al-Azmi Mohammad Saif Hamad Al-Azmi

10 M Pistol:

Abdelaziz Al-Rukhais Khalid Al-Yahya Ahmad Al-Sirri

10 M Rifle Men : Fares Rashid Abdellatif Al-Wuhiar Mushari Al-Thafiri 10 M Rifle Women: Al-Anoud Al-Saeedi Fatima Shihab Ghadeer Abdelqader

Sheikh Salman hands a winner his trophy

Stricker stays ahead in Chicago CHICAGO: Two-time defending champion Steve Stricker shot a flawless round of eight under par on Saturday to head into Sunday’s final round of the John Deere Classic with a two stroke lead.

The American followed up his earlier rounds of 66 and 64 with a bogey-free 63 to reach 20-under par with the kind of spectacular golf that could well bring him a third consecutive triumph in the Silvas, Illinois event.

“I feel pretty relaxed out there to tell you the truth, and I’m looking forward to tomorrow,” Stricker said. “But it’s going to be tough. There’s going to be guys that will come out of the blocks shooting probably lights out right away, and I’m going to have to continue to do what I’ve been doing the first three days.”

Stricker, ranked five in the world, began the day by draining a superb 75foot birdie putt on the first and ended with a 15-foot par save on the 18th to make sure he maintained his two stroke cushion over Zimbabwean Brendon de

Jonge, who also shot 63 on Saturday.

“Obviously (Stricker) knows how to play this golf course very, very well. He’s very comfortable around it,” de Jonge said.

“But it’s nice that I do have a chance tomorrow....regardless of who it is, you’re going to have to play a good round of golf and you’re going to have to make a bunch of birdies.”

Overnight leader Chez Reavie slipped back to outright third place at 17-under after overcoming a bad start to his round. He bogeyed the sixth and eighth holes but made birdies in four of his last six to finish a shot clear of fellow American Kyle Stanley and three behind Stricker.

“It’s hard enough to win an event three times let alone three in a row so it’ll be tough tomorrow,” Stricker said. “You gotta fight through those nerves and everything, but it would mean a lot. It would be pretty special to be a part of that list.”—Reuters

PARIS: Defending Davis Cup champions Serbia shrugged off the absence of Wimbledon winner Novak Djokovic to wrap up a 4-1 win over Sweden and book a semifinal date against Argentina yesterday. Janko Tipsarevic earned the crucial point, beating Michael Ryderstedt 6-2, 7-5, 6-3 in Halmstad to secure Serbia a home September semi-final meeting with Argentina, themselves easy 5-0 winners against Kazakhstan.

“It feels really good. I know that Serbia was a huge favourite with Robin (Soderling) not here and with Novak,” said Tipsarevic, who had played two singles rubbers instead of world number one Djokovic.

Ryderstedt, who was playing his first ever Davis Cup with a world ranking of 297, had put up a good fight but lost to Viktor Troicki in the first rubber on Friday. Tipsarevic then gave Serbia a 2-0 lead, getting past Ervin Eleskovic when the home player retired injured. The hosts did see their hopes rekindled on Saturday when Simon Aspelin and Robert Lindstedt won the doubles rubber in straight sets, defeating Djokovic and Nenad Zimonjic, who ranks sixth in the world for doubles. But on Sunday, Tipsarevic, again deputising for Djokovic who had complained of a knee problem on Friday, had the upper hand, breaking Ryderstedt six times en route to victory. Tipsarevic knows Serbia will have a fight on their hands if they are to advance to the final for a second year running and thinks that David Nalbandian holds the key to Argentina’s fortunes in the competition.

SWEDEN: Serbia’s Janko Tipsarevic (top middle) is congratulated by Novak Djokovic (above right) and others in the Serbian Davis Cup tennis team after defeating Sweden’s Michael Ryderstedt in one of the single matches.—AP “If David Nalbandian comes in really good shape then I feel it’s going to be really, really tricky,” said Tipsarevic. “Whichever surface we choose I think it’s going to be a really tough match.” Argentina coach Tito Vazquez said his team would be tested to the limit in Belgrade where Serbia won their first Davis Cup last December.

“It’s a difficult match, a very solid team. We’ll try to do our best, give them a good fight. In order to win, we have to take our chances. We have to be at 110 percent if we want to win,” he said. Juan Monaco, who won both of his sin-

gles rubbers in Buenos Aires against Kazakhstan, insisted it would be a mistake just to concentrate on Djokovic.

“They’ve been playing together for two years and they have the world number one Novak Djokovic.

They are very good players, I’m not talking just about Djokovic. They are a complete team,” he said.

In Stuttgart, France completed a 4-1 win over Germany. Philipp Petzschner saw off Michael Llodra 6-3, 6-4 for his team’s only point of the weekend with Jo-Wilfried Tsonga then defeating Philipp Kohlschreiber 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/5) to

wrap up the quarter-final.

France will play either the United States or Spain in the semifinals. World No. 1 doubles team Bob and Mike Bryan kept the United States in the hunt with a 6-7 (3/7), 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 victory over Spain’s Marcel Granollers and Fernando Verdasco on Saturday in Austin, Texas, which leaves them trailing 2-1.

The US squad, whose only win in 37 ties after losing the first two matches came against Australia in 1934 at London, will try to pull off a shock on Sunday by sweeping the reverse singles matches. —AFP

Voeckler takes yellow as Sanchez wins crash-fest SAINT-FLOUR: Frenchman Thomas Voeckler pulled on the Tour de France yellow jersey after a dramatic ninth stage won by Spain’s Luis Leon Sanchez and marred by nearly a dozen crashes yesterday.

Voeckler, of Europcar, had been part of an early breakaway that made it to the finish line of the 208 km ride from Issoire unchallenged after a mass pile-up in the peloton caused mayhem and delayed the chase.

Two of Voeckler’s breakaway companions, Johnny Hoogerland and Juan Antonio Flecha, were then taken out of the equation for the win after they were hit by a television car 35 km from home.

It left Rabobank rider Sanchez, Voeckler and his compatriot Sandy Casar contending the win, with Sanchez launching an unassailable sprint 250 metres from the uphill finish to leave Voeckler in second.

“Last year Casar beat me in a two-up sprint (at Saint-Jean-deMaurienne) but that time it was my fault because I hadn’t checked out the finish,” said Sanchez after taking his first win of the season for Rabobank.

“This time I did my homework.

I knew the finale and it suited me well.” Casar, of FDJ, was third with Belgian Philippe Gilbert of Omega-Pharma leading home a peloton containing a somewhat reduced bunch of yellow jersey favourites 3min 59sec later.

Voeckler took over the race lead from Norwegian Thor Hushovd and now leads Sanchez by 1:49 in the general classification, with Australian Cadel Evans third at 2:26 followed by Frank Schleck (2:29) and Andy Schleck (2:37). Reigning champion Alberto Contador, who earlier in the stage suffered his fourth crash in eight days, is 16th at

FRANCE: A combo shows from top (left to right) Russia’s Alexandre Vinokourov being carried into an ambulance after he crashed, Netherland’s Johnny Hoogerland stuck in barbed-wire fence after he crashed and stage winner Spain’s Luis-Leon Sanchez crossing the finish line and Yellow jersey of overall leader and stage second-placed, France’s Thomas Voeclker crying on the podium at the end of the 208 km and ninth stage of the 2011 Tour de France cycling race.—AP 4:07. On the second day in the hilly Massif Central, and after several failed attempts, Voeckler was determined to open his account.

He jumped into a breakaway early and played a leading role in helping to distance the peloton over the first few climbs.

But he admitted he was stunned to be wearing the yellow jersey again. “I didn’t want to have any regrets on the Tour this year, but I have to say I didn’t expect to be pulling on the yellow jersey again,” said Voeckler, who famously wore the yellow jersey for nine days in 2004.

“I really didn’t think I’d have it a second time in my career. In

2004, people said that the peloton let me take the yellow jersey.

Today I went out and went for it.”

But while he will get to savor his feat in today’s rest day many other teams will be taking stock of the damage. Belgian Jurgen van den Broeck became the second yellow jersey contender after Bradley Wiggins, to crash out when he got caught up in a mass pile-up on the descent of the Col du Pas de Peyrol as the peloton trailed by 3:25.

In the same spill Alexandre Vinokourov, racing what was his eighth and final Tour, found himself in the trees and out of the race with a fractured femur in the

same crash.

It also took out van den Broeck’s teammate Fredrik Willems and American David Zabriskie. The shock of the crash caused the peloton to slow the pace, giving Voeckler’s breakaway group a lead which, with over 80 km to race, would soon reach over seven minutes.

The five would go on to be unchallenged, but further drama would unfold 35km from the finish when Hoogerland was sent somersaulting into a fence and Flecha hit the deck at full speed.

Both got back up to finish although they trailed home over 16 minutes off the pace.—AFP

US beat Brazil on penalties

Sumo tries to bury murky past

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

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SILVERSTONE: The pack races into the first corner during the Formula One British Grand Prix. (Inset) Spain’s Ferrari Formula One driver Fernando Alonso celebrates after winning the British Grand Prix.—AP

Alonso wins dramatic British GP SILVERSTONE: Fernando Alonso delivered Ferrari’s long-awaited first win of 2011 yesterday when he made the most of unpredictable wet-dry conditions to triumph at a thrilling British Grand Prix.

The 29-year-old Spaniard, winner of the British race for Renault in 2006, secured Ferrari’s first win since last year’s Korean Grand Prix with a controlled drive and some luck - to exploit the controversial revised technical regulations.

It was Alonso’s 27th career victory, drawing him alongside three-times champion Briton Jackie Stewart in the record books. And it came on an afternoon of high drama that saw defending champion and runaway leader Sebastian Vettel’s race undone by a slow pit-stop.

Vettel finished second ahead of his Red Bull teammate and pole setter Mark Webber, with McLaren’s home favourite Lewis Hamilton in fourth after a superb rousing race.

Red Bull used team orders to stop Australian Webber passing Vettel on the final lap. “Hold the gap, maintain the gap, keep station,” the Red Bull team told Webber, last year’s winner. Team chief Christian Hornder said Webber respected that order.

Vettel, who crossed the line over 16 seconds behind Alonso, retained his lead in the drivers’ championship on 204 points from Webber on 124 with Alonso moving up into third on 112.

“A fantastic day, fantastic day,” said a

delighted Alonso on the team radio during the slowing down lap. “A great win,” said Ferrari team chief Stefano Domenicali.

Alonso leapt from his car at the end, as the crowd were released on to the circuit, and waved his steering wheel in celebration, banging his hand against the prancing horse logo. “It is a great win, we stayed calm when we had to and we did the job,” said Alonso.

Hamilton had to bang wheels with the Ferrari of Brazilian Felipe Massa at the final corner to keep his position after his McLaren team had warned him he did not have enough fuel to race at full speed in the closing laps.

On the team radio, Hamilton thanked

the team for being so brave. “Thanks for the courage,” he said. Massa finished fifth ahead of German Nico Rosberg in a Mercedes, Mexican Sergio Perez for Sauber and German Nick Heidfeld of Renault. Seven-times champion German Michael Schumacher, 42, came home ninth for Mercedes and Spaniard Jaime Alguersuari was 10th for Toro Rosso.

Conditions for this ninth race of the season were tricky, with heavy rain falling across only half of the circuit at the start.

This caused the teams to opt for intermediate ‘wet’ tyres for the opening part of the contest. Vettel, who had nipped past Webber at the start, led until lap 27 when he came in for his second stop and suffered a mini-disaster when the left rear

wheel caused problems.

This was a gift to Ferrari and Alonso, who had pitted simultaneously, but more quickly, swept out in front to take the lead for the first time followed by Hamilton in second. Vettel rejoined third ahead of Webber and Jenson Button. Hamilton was unable to close on Alonso who opened up a 12 seconds gap by lap 38 when Vettel pitted early and, after the others had been in, emerged two laps later in second place.

Hamilton’s race was compromised later when McLaren warned him he was in danger of running out of fuel and had to ease off his most competitive pace.

This was an invitation to Webber, in fourth, to attack for a pass and required

Venezuela stun Ecuador SALTA: Venezuela stunned Ecuador 1-0 to go top of Group B at the Copa America yesterday with only their third win in the competition since they first took part in 1967. The baseball-loving Venezuelans, once the whipping boys of South American soccer, have four points having held holders Brazil 0-0 in their opening match in La Plata last Sunday.

Brazil and Paraguay are joint second with two points apiece after a 2-2 draw in Cordoba earlier on Saturday. Midfielder Cesar “Maestrico” (Little Master) Gonzalez scored the only goal just past the hour when he fired in a shot from outside the box past static goalkeeper Marcelo Elizaga, who was unsighted by one of his defenders.

It was a deserved victory for Venezuela, whose only two previous wins in the competition were on home soil. President Hugo Chavez, back in Venezuela after undergoing cancer surgery in Cuba, was quick to congratulate Gonzalez on his Twitter account.

“Bravo to our gunner Cesar Gonzalez... that little master,” Chavez wrote on @chavezcandanga.

Ecuador, without Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia, who is nursing an ankle injury, squandered several chances to equalise.

Striker Felipe Caicedo dribbled past several defenders in the box but his weak shot easily stopped by keeper Denny Vega. Another clear chance came when Caicedo passed to Cristian Benitez, who chested down and shot on target, but it was again saved

by Vega.

Midfielder Edison Mendez passed to captain Walter Ayovi but he missed probably the clearest opportunity with a left-footed shot over the crossbar.

Elizaga, man of the match when Ecuador held Paraguay 0-0 in Santa Fe last Sunday, saved from Venezuela left back Gabriel Cichero early in the match.

Midfielder Juan Arango, Venezuela’s most influential player, had a shot on target near the end of the first half that Elizaga dived to push away.—Reuters

SALTA: Ecuador’s Christian Noboa (right) and Venezuela’s Nicolas Fedor fight for the ball during a Group B Copa America soccer match.—AP

the 2008 champion to defend as best he could. Hamilton did his best, but like an injured bird, was an easy target and Webber swept by on lap 45.

Hamilton’s McLaren teammate and fellow Briton Jenson Button failed to finish.

He came in for his final stop and emerged without a wheel nut on his front right wheel. He was forced to cruise to a halt at the pit lane exit where he abandoned his car and, his helmet firmly on, stormed back to the pit lane without comment.

With Scottish rookie Paul Di Resta also enduring a troubled run in 15th place for Force India, there was little for the 120,000 British fans to celebrate as Alonso stayed out in front on his run towards the chequered flag.—AFP

Colombia march into quarter-finals SANTA FE: Colombia marched into the quarter-finals of the Copa America yesterday, becoming the first team to book their passage, after a 2-0 win over Bolivia wrapped up top spot in Group A. Porto hitman Radamel Falcao put the contest to bed in the first half hour with a crisp opener on 14 minutes and a penalty after 26 minutes as the Colombians hit the ground running.

The cafeteros had already seen off Costa Rica and had the better of a draw with hosts Argentina and completed an impressive first phase showing against a Bolivian side who started well enough in holding the Argentinians before flunking their Costa Rican test.

After Falcao’s rip-roaring opening, Adrian Ramos, Freddy Guarin and Dayro Moreno all went close for the Colombians as they threatened to overwhelm their rivals before they took their foot off the accelerator after the break.

After Falcao sent his spotkick hard and low past Bolivian keeper Carlos Arias - who had saved a penalty in the previous game gainst the Costa Ricans - the Colombians celebrated by holding aloft a shirt belonging to David Ospina, their usual first choice keeper. Ospina, who plays for French side Nice, missed the event after fracturing his nose in a training ground collision with Wigan’s Hugo Rodallega, forcing the Colombians to promote Nelson Ramos of Millonarios.

Meanwhile, with Chile and Peru unexpectedly setting the pace in Group C of the Copa America, World Cup semi-finalists Uruguay have it all to do if they are to reach the quarter-finals.

A win over Mexico in La Plata tomorrow is needed after the Charruas made a slow start in what coach Oscar Tabarez has called a “weird” tournament.

Despite talents such as Liverpool’s Luis Suarez and Atletico Madrid’s Diego Forlan to call upon the Celeste have been suffering from the strange affliction which has hit holders Brazil and hosts Argentina at the event to date-an inability to win games. Brazil coach Mano Menezes made the Uruguayans, who have won a joint record 14 continental titles with Argentina but none since 1995, his outside bet for glory.

But a draw with Peru was not the start that Tabarez wanted and an ensuing stalemate with Chile left the Uruguayans two points off the leading Pacific pair. Should the Uruguayans win and their rivals cancel each other out they could end up with five points and yet, depending on goal difference and average, come third in the group.—AFP

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US beat Brazil on penalties

GERMANY: Sweden’s Sara Larsson (left) and Sweden’s Charlotte Rohlin celebrate winning 3-1 the quarterfinal match between Sweden and Australia at the Women’s Soccer World Cup. —AP

Swedes crush Aussies AUGSBURG: Sweden took advantage of some sloppy Australia defending to claim a decisive 3-1 victory and book a semifinal clash with Japan in the Women’s World Cup here yesterday.

Therese Sjogran (11) and Lisa Dahlkvist (16) had given the Swedes an early lead in their quarter-final tie before World Cup debutante Ellyse Perry got one back five minutes before the break.

Player of the match Lotta Schelin finished off the contest after 52 minutes in front of a crowd of nearly 25,000 who were vocally supporting Australia as Germany’s ticket to the 2012 Olympic Games depended on a Swedish defeat.

“The only thing I felt was they (the crowd) were shouting a bit more for Australia,” said the Lyon striker. “Of course they wanted Germany to go to the Olympics. But otherwise it was fantastic.”

Sweden, the 2003 runners-up, next play Japan, who sensationally knocked out two-time holders Germany, in the semi-finals in Frankfurt on Wednesday.

The Scandinavians also book one of the two European qualifying spots for the 2012 Olympics along with France who advanced to the semi-finals by beating England, who qualify as hosts, on penalties on Saturday.

Coach Tom Sermanni blamed sloppy defending for Australia’s defeat. “The goals that we conceded here have been very simple, basic mistakes. At 2-1 you have a chance to come back into the game, at 3-1 you’re struggling,” he said.

“We managed to keep playing, the situation wasn’t irretrievable. At half time we were confident we could go on and win the game until we coughed up that third goal. But I’m proud we didn’t give up.”

Under the blazing Bavarian sun, Sjogran got the more experienced Swedes off the mark after 11 minutes when she picked up a Schelin cross to fire past diving goalie Melissa Barbieri.

Five minutes later Dahlkvist headed in her third goal in four World Cup matches.

Australia pushed forward with Collette McCallum missing a free-kick opportunity late in the first half but Perry got the Matildas back into the tie five minutes

before the break.

The 20-year-old, who has represented Australia in both the cricket and football World Cups, picked up a corner to rifle in a curling effort outside the box to leave Hedvig Lindahl with no chance.

Back after the break the Matildas continued to search for the equaliser but Lisa De Vanna was ruled offside as she raced towards goal.

However, Schelin gave them a mountain to climb after as she picked up a lose ball that defender Kim Carroll casually tried to pass back to Barbieri, with the Swedish striker rounding the Aussie goalkeeper and coolly slotting into the empty goal.

A Kyah Simon header after 63 minutes went just wide, with Schelin also missing a shot at goal at 72 minutes while Barbieri almost took the ball over her own line as she collected a cross.

The Matildas refused to give up and a Tameka Butt shot on goal nine minutes from time went just wide as the Swedes held on for their eighth win in nine meetings with Australia.

Swedish coach Thomas Dennerby said that his team had seemed tired after their stunning 2-1 victory over world number one side, the United States, which saw them finish top of Group C: they also has 1-0 wins over both North Korea and Colombia.

“Overall I’m satisfied. I think we didn’t play as good defense as in the other games. “Maybe we were a bit tired since the game against the US. Our attacking play was really good today and there were some nice goals.” And Sermanni paid tribute to the Swedes.

“I think Sweden are a formidable side and they have a good chance of going all the way in this tournament. They’re strong, well organised with some game breaking players.”

Fifth-ranked Sweden have competed in all editions of the World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1991 when they finished third and were finalists in 2003. The pair’s only previous clash in the World Cup was in 1999 when the Scandinavians also won 3-1. —AFP

Paraguayans communicate in code at Copa CORDOBA: Portuguese and Spanishspeaking media at the Copa America are having a hard time trying to crack the code as they report on Paraguay.

Brazil’s Group B rivals take on the auriverde on Saturday in Cordoba, but most media, and likewise any spies from the Brazilian camp, will come away from Paraguay’s training sessions none the wiser if they rely on pitchside banter.

That’s because some 80 percent of Paraguayans speak the local ethnic language Guarani as their mother tongue, as opposed to Spanish.

Black , white, mixed race, rich or poor, the Paraguayans happily communicate in the tongue which is incomprehensible for those from around the continent who only speak Spanish or Portuguese.

They make a bit of an exception for coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino and his assistants, who are Argentinians and who only have a basic grasp of the vocabulary being used by the squad on the pitch.

Sometimes the players resort to simpler methods - a Tarzan-like shriek can mean a striker is headed for the penalt y area and wants the ball played through into his path. Or else a simple “aime” (I am ready) for signalling one is

about to make a pass or ready to receive one. The vocabulary is rich, but bears no resemblance whatsoever to Spanish footballing parlance.

“Peyopike” refers to closing an opponent down while “yajake” essentially means “let’s get going, come on”, when an attack is in the offing.To counter would-be ball hoggers, the cr y is “eme’e” - pass.

In the face of rival pressure a player might be told “emboveve” - just get rid of it, while “einupa” is shoot, although, away from goal, it could loosely also mean, “welly it,” or “hoof it” in colloquial English.

When it comes to ‘taking out’ an opponent there are various possibilities, ranging from enaka-o” (literally, cut his head off ) or “eipi-aka (kick him in the stomach).

And if a star player is having one of his quieter days, there is always the instruction “eyejechaka” - show yourself, don’t hide.

Not that the team will be doing that against the five-time world champions.

The squad even have their own early warning signal for when exhibitionist model and mega-fan Larissa Riquelme turns up to watch. “Penatendeke, chake ou Larissa” (watch out lads, here comes Larissa). —AFP

DRESDEN: Two-time winners the US beat Brazil 5-3 on penalties in dramatic fashion to advance to the semi-finals of the women’s World Cup yesterday after the tie had been locked 2-2 in extra time.

US defender Alex Krieger hit the winning penalty after her goalkeeper Hope Solo had earlier saved from Brazil’s Daiane to give her side the advantage in the shoot-out.

On the final whistle, American striker Abby Wambach had kept her side in the quarter-final with a dramatic header in the 122nd minute to level the scores after Brazil play-maker Mar ta had scored in the 92nd minute.

The game went into extratime with the scores 1-1 as an own-goal by Brazil defender Daiane after just two minutes was cancelled out by Mar ta’s penalty on 68 minutes which she converted at the second attempt.

The US had been reduced to 10 players when defender Rachel Buehler was sent off just moments before. The US will now face France in Moenchengladbach in Wednesday’s semi-final for a place in next Sunday’s final in Frankfurt.

While the Americans came to Dresden having lost 2-1 to Sweden in their final Group C game, Brazil did not concede a goal in the group stages as they swept past Australia, Norway and Equatorial Guinea as Group D winners.

But Brazil leaked their first goal here after just two minutes in front of a sell-out crowd of 25,598.

GERMANY: United States goalkeeper Hope Solo deflects a penalty shot during the quarterfinal match between Brazil and the United States at the Women’s Soccer World Cup. —AP US midfielder Shannon Boxx whipped in the first cross of the game and Daiane could only watch in horror as her clearance kick sliced into her own net.

Marta also served a reminder to the US defence of her status as five-time world player of the year when she dribbled from the halfway line at full speed only to fire her shot over the bar on 20 minutes.

The game turned against the Americans in the 65th minute

when Buehler brought down Marta in the area as they both went for the ball, but was shown a straight red card by Australian referee Jacqui Melksham.

Justice seemed to have been done when Cristiane’s first penalty attempt was saved by Solo. But Solo appeared to hop in the direction before she dived, so Melksham insisted the penalty be re-taken-with furious protests from the Americans-and Marta slammed home the second

attempt on 68 minutes.

Solo was booked for her angry response. Neither side could break the deadlock in normal time, but Marta popped up with what looked like the winner in the 92nd minute when she pivoted on a cross from left wing Maurine. With time almost up, Wambach’s header at the death gave her side the precious life line which was all they needed for a historic win in the shootout. —AFP

F1 teams fail to reach agreement on engines

JOHANNESBURG: In this July 11, 2010 file photo, Spain’s Andres Iniesta celebrates after scoring a goal, with the words ‘Dani Jarque, always with us’, written on his undershirt, during the World Cup final soccer match between the Netherlands and Spain. The vest that Iniesta wore in tribute to deceased player Dani Jarque that he revealed after scoring Spain’s winning goal in the World Cup final has gone on display at Espanyol’s stadium. —AP

Messi: Argentina will bounce back BUENOS AIRES: Argentina have made a poor start to their Copa America campaign with two draws and do not look like a team ready to end a two-decade trophy drought, but they will recover and reach the quarter-finals, insists star Lionel Messi.

World player of the year Messi proved unstoppable all season with a Barcelona shirt on his back but with Argentina he has become a metaphor for the team’s stuttering form which saw the albiceleste drop points to Bolivia and then just scrape another draw with Colombia.

Successive final defeats against rivals Brazil, adding to their lack of success going back to the 1993 Copa, plus the fact this year’s competition is at home, has ratcheted up the pressure on the Argentinians, but Messi says they will get it together against Costa Rica today in Cordoba.

By then, Colombia will have won the group if they can Sunday get past the Bolivians and even a draw will be enough, meaning Argentina are condemned to secure all three points against the Ticos.

Messi is caught in the headlights as the debate rages nationwide about why he cannot seemingly turn on the style in the country of his birth. But he insists everything will come together.

“I feel fine and I am really up for it. I am confident the team will qualify. We’ll pull it out,” the 24-year-old told sports daily Ole. The Costa Ricans managed a goal-less draw in a March friendly but Argentina simply cannot afford a repeat.

Former Argentina coach Alfio Basile, who masterminded the side’s run to the 1993 title, told Radio Concepto on Saturday that “if we don’t go through it will be a disaster.

“But we should win it,” he added, calling on coach Sergio Batista to make changes if he felt deep down that he must.

“I’m thinking about changing the sys-

tem,” Batista had revealed in his Clarin column on Friday, hinting that Messi would play just off Gonzalo Higuain, with Sergio Aguero and Angelo di Maria also brought in, meaning Carlos Tevez and Ezequiel Lavezzi may drop to the bench. Basile said Messi needs the ball.

“I know him,” he said. “If he doesn’t have the ball he goes crazy and drifts out of the game.” Former Brazil star Bebeto said earlier that if Messi aspires to be a true great, talked of in the same breath as Diego Maradona, he has to win international honours.

The irony is those honors could have come at last year’s World Cup, for Spain.

Messi turned down the chance to play for Spain as early as 2004 so, whatever his detractors say at home, there is no doubt where his loyalties lie, even if in 2005 he did take Spanish nationality and has a Spanish passport issued to circumvent regulations limiting non-EU foreigners in La Liga sides.

Had he elected to play for the Spanish, alongside clubmates Xavi and Andres Iniesta-seen as the key elements he is missing in the Argentine side-he would now likely have a World Cup winners medal, removing a key arguement holding some observers back from granting him the title of “best ever.”

Costa Rica, meanwhile, have found self-belief after beating Bolivia. They have also found a young star in teen striker Joel Campbell, who noted that the Ticos have nothing to fear.

“The pressure is on Argentina. They have to win,” said the man from Deportivo Saprissa, who have reportedly slapped a five-million dollars price tag on the head of a youngster who is already being compared to Samuel Eto’o. With wisdom beyond his years, Campbell also notes that “we’re not just playing against Messi.”

They’re playing a team which has to find its form-and quickly. —AFP

SILVERSTONE: Formula One faced further turmoil over engine regulations yesterday after teams failed to reach an agreement at the British Grand Prix.

“There’s no agreement,” Christian Horner, principal of champions Red Bull, told Reuters as he walked back to the team motor home with technical head Adrian Newey.

The governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) had said on Saturday it was prepared to agree a return to pre-Silverstone setups and strategies if the teams were in unanimous agreement.

The FIA began a clampdown last month on engine electronics to ensure teams did not gain an aerodynamic advantage by using systems that allowed exhaust gases to flow constantly through the rear of the car even when a driver was off the throttle.

In Valencia two weeks ago, teams were told they could no longer change engine maps between qualifying and the race- which would have allowed them to go for extreme settings for the Saturday session before tuning down the engine for race reliability.

At Silverstone, several directives have been issued with controversial results. One on Friday making allowances on grounds of reliability were seen by Mercedes-powered McLaren to excessively favour Red Bull and their Renault units.

That directive was then rowed back on Saturday, to the visible fury of Horner who spent an hour in discussions with race director Charlie Whiting.

McLaren principal Martin Whitmarsh, whose Mercedes-powered team appeared to have been badly hit by the changes in qualifying with Lewis Hamilton only 10th and Jenson Button fifth, had hoped for a compromise agreement as outlined by the FIA. “Whether people like exhaust blowing or not, it’s probably the most equitable situation,” he said. “Nobody was complaining about it 18 months ago, or 12 months ago or six months ago.

“I think it would be the fairest way. Inevitably in Formula One self-interest sometimes prevails but I think unless we go back to that then this season is going to be fraught with paranoia, feeling of being done to, of being disadvantaged.”

Red Bull have started all nine races this season on pole position and had won six of them before Sunday. McLaren had won the other two.

“It (the clampdown) may be worse for other teams but all I can say is that it certainly hit this team, it has hit the performance of our car. I think that is evident from the stopwatch,” said Whitmarsh.“It isn’t good to change the rules midway through the year. If you do that, the team that has worked the hardest perhaps to refine that particular rule may well be disadvantaged.” —Reuters

Matches on TV (Local Timings) COPA AMERICA (TUESDAY) Argentina v Costa Rica 3:45 Al Jazeera Sport +2 Al Jazeera Sport +3 Al Jazeera Sport 1 HD

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TUNIS: Tourists visit the souk in Tunis. The Tunisian National Tourism Office has estimated at 3,000 the number of jobs lost since the beginning of the year in the tourism sector, which accounts for 7% of the Tunisian GDP and employs 400,000 people. — AFP

Empty Tunisian resort highlights tourism woes ‘It’s worse than catastrophic’ YASMINE HAMMAMET: The Tunisian seaside resort of Yasmine Hammamet with its fine beach, warm blue sea and welcoming hotels is like a picture postcard in early summer-but with nobody in it. Europeans, Algerians and Libyans have all deserted the town in the northwest of Tunisia, which is undergoing the worst tourist season in history, like most of the other seaside towns in the north African country since the January revolution that ousted the despot Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali. “It’s worse than catastrophic,” said Kamel Ben Abdallah, the manager of a threestar hotel, who normally makes 65

percent of his income during the summer. In spite of a 40 percent cut in prices, many rooms are empty.

Ben Abdallah has been forced to slash his staff down to 40, compared with 100 during the same period last year, and he has taken on no seasonal workers. The hotel manager blames the media for this “enormous waste,” accusing journalists of painting a picture of a “deeply unstable Tunisia” since the popular uprising in January. “They (the media) only overdramatize things,” he protested. The National Office of Tourism on Tuesday announced that 3,000 jobs have been lost so far this year in the

tourist sector, which accounts for seven percent of Tunisia’s gross domestic product and usually employs 400,000 people.

The number of tourists arriving has fallen by 39 percent and income has dropped by 51 percent. Yasmine Hammamet is as welcoming as ever but it does not even attract cut-rate tourists this year. Though renowned for its festive atmosphere, the resort is plunged into a deathly silence.

Traders, craftsmen and guides have nothing to do. Even dating is no longer a popular activity. “My camel has put on weight because it hasn’t moved,” complained Hichem, look-

ing desperately for a client to take for a ride near the marina.

On the beach where the deckchairs are empty, 23-year-old Saber was sitting on one of his 10 bicycles decorated with flags of many nationalities. “I go whole days without renting a ride, even at the extremely cut rate of five dinars (2.50 euros, $3.60) for half an hour. The few tourists who are here shun us and stay shut away in their hotels,” he said.

“They don’t come out at night for fear of being attacked. There are a lot of baseless rumors going around,” explained Leila, a trader who plans

rumors on the dangers of instability.”

One totally false rumor about the kidnapping of an Algerian tourist in Sousse circulated in the Tunisian press for about 10 days. Many hotel keepers believe that it was put out to discourage Algerian tourists, who usually make up a substantial part of their clientele. Overwhelmed, tourist professionals in Tunisia hope to save the season with the help of lastminute reservations. In the meantime, local people receive SMS advertisements every day offering “incredible but true” promotions for seaside hotels with prices cut by 35 percent.—AFP

Oman’s budget deficit jumps to $658 million

News

in brief

Saudi Safco Q2 profit falls 13% RIYADH: Saudi Arabian Fertilizers Co (Safco) yesterday said its quarterly net profit fell 13 percent, missing analysts expectations for the second straight quarter.

Safco made 790 million riyals ($210.7 million) in the second quarter, compared with 907.2 million riyals in the prior-year period when its results were boosted by sale of land. Analysts had forecast average secondquarter earnings of 994.3 million riyals, in a Reuters survey. The company said sales of ammonia declined in the second-quarter and average urea prices were also lower on a sequential basis. Operating profits at Safco rose 36 percent to 757 million riyals versus 558 million riyals year-ago.

Iran eyes bond issue TEHRAN: Iran’s energy minister aims to issue $1 billion of dollar denominated bonds, the students news agency ISNA reported yesterday. “We are preparing to issue $1 billion of bonds to develop electricity and water projects,” Majid Namjou told ISNA, adding the bonds would be offered inside Iran and abroad.

Namjou’s announcement comes as plans to merge his ministry with the Oil Ministry are on hold due to opposition from parliament. Iran is under increasingly tight economic sanctions due to western fears it is seeking nuclear weapons capability, something Iran denies.

Almarai Q2 net profit up 1.8% RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Almarai Co said yesterday its second quarter net profit rose by 1.8 percent compared to the same time last year. The dairy firm made 349.2 million riyals ($93.12 million) during the second quarter, it said in a statement on Saudi Arabia’s bourse website. “Considering the impact of these cost increases, Almarai is satisfied with the overall performance in the second quarter with continued sales growth and increased market share across all key product categories,” the firm said in the statement.

to shut up shop in August. “I was advised not to go out at night unaccompanied,” confirmed Florence, a French tourist who preferred not to leave the hotel “for security reasons.”

Last week, the ministry of the interior announced that it was reinforcing the security presence in tourist regions but this measure does not seem to reassure many visitors to post-Ben Ali Tunisia. According to Philippe Belhay, the Anglo-Tunisian manager of a five-star hotel who has lost 52 percent of his business, neighboring “anti-revolutionary countries want to kill off the young Tunisian revolution by putting out

IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde

IMF warns on US debt WASHINGTON: New IMF chief Christine Lagarde warned yesterday that a US debt default would jeopardize global economic stability and urged warring American politicians to forge a compromise budget deal. A default “would certainly jeopardize the stability, but not just the stability of the US economy, it would jeopardize the stability at large,” the first woman to head the International Monetary Fund told ABC News.

“And that’s clearly against the purpose and the mission of the International Monetary Fund. So we are concerned.” Without an agreement, she said she could see “interest hikes, stock markets taking a huge hit and real nasty consequences, not just for the United States, but for the entire global economy, because the US is such a big player and matters so

much for other countries.” Lagarde told ABC’s “This Week” that she did not expect Washington to end up in default, despite tense negotiations between the White House and Republican leaders on measures to increase the US debt ceiling. “I can’t imagine for a second that the United States would default,” she said.

“But, clearly, this issue of the debt ceiling has to be resolved, as, otherwise, there would a hike in interest rates. There would be you know a much heavier burden to be borne by, you know, all the US taxpayers at the end of the day.” She added that a default “would be a real shock, and it would be bad news for the US economy. So I would hope that there is enough bipartisan intelligence and understanding of the challenge that is ahead of the United States, but also of the rest of the world.” — AFP

DUBAI: Oman’s budget deficit jumped to 253.4 million rials ($658.2 million) in the first three months of the year as rising oil revenue failed to offset increasing state spending, finance ministry data showed yesterday.

The small non-OPEC oil producer, which was hit by several public protests this year, booked a gap of 67.2 million rials in JanuaryFebruary. The three-month shortfall amounted to around 1.1 percent of the sultanate’s gross domestic product, according to Reuters calculations, compared with a 421.2 million surplus, or 1.9 percent of GDP, in the same period last year.

“I still think that the underlying budget situation in Oman is fairly healthy. With oil prices at these levels, there should be more than enough revenue to account for the extra spending measures,” said Daniel Kaye, senior economist at the National Bank of Kuwait. Revenue reached 2.3 billion rials, accounting for 32 of the full-year plan, driven by oil exports, which make up for over 75 percent of the overall budget income, the data showed. The Gulf Arab country’s expenditures stood at 1.7 billion rials in January-March, or 21 percent of the 2011 budget plan. Actual expenditure under settlement reached an additional 843.5 million.

In December, Oman projected

record expenditure of 8.1 billion rials in its 2011 budget, up 13.2 percent from the previous year.

However, protests prompted Sultan Qaboos bin Said, a US ally who has ruled Oman for 40 years, to promise a $2.6 billion spending package in April. Oman based its initial 2011 budget on a projected oil price of $58 per barrel and expected a deficit of 850 million rials. Its finance minister said last month spending will soar 11 percent compared to the original plan on social measures. He also said a $10 billion aid package pledged to Oman by its wealthier Gulf Arab neighbors to help stem unrest was unlikely to take off this year.

The country, whose hydrocarbon-based economy is forecast to expand by 4.1 percent in 2011, sold its crude at an average oil price of $95 per barrel in January-May. Analysts polled by Reuters in June expected Oman to post a surplus of 4.8 percent of GDP this year. The usually tranquil Gulf state was hit by protests in February and March, following uprisings that toppled rulers in Egypt and Tunisia. Omanis called mainly for higher wages, more jobs and an end to graft. Some 100 people demonstrated in the Omani industrial city of Sohar on Friday demanding the release of their colleagues who were jailed for protesting earlier this year. — Reuters

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Direct Server to Server transactions at Al Mulla Exchange KUWAIT: Al Mulla Exchange the premier exchange company in Kuwait and a fully owned subsidiary of the business conglomerate Al Mulla Group, recently held a media briefing to introduce Server-to-Server transaction, their latest and fastest mode of money remittance. Speaking on the occasion, Rajesh Gairola, General Manager of Al Mulla Exchange, said that since establishment in 2001 the exchange has been at the forefront of introducing innovative, customercentric solutions designed to make remittance transactions more secure, more reliable and faster.

Ten years ago, the principal mode of money transfer was through paper drafts, which could take anywhere from two weeks to over a month to be delivered to the recipient followed by the hassle of en-cashing the draft. It was under these circumstances that Al Mulla Exchange pioneered Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) service that uploaded transaction files on the same day

that funds were received; this allowed the recipient to withdraw the remitted amount on the very next day. Gairola added, “When we established in 2001, there were over 40 exchange companies operating in Kuwait.

The fact that within a span of a decade, Al Mulla Exchange has become the exchange of choice in the country when it comes to trust, reliability and speed in remittance, is due to the hard work of our energetic staff and the company’s techno-savvy approach to remittances.”

In 2006, following the rapid uptake of EFT, AL MULLA EXCHANGE introduced for the first time in Kuwait, Real Time Gross Settlements (RTGS) service and the National Electronic File Transfer (NEFT) launched by RBI, and made the services available to its customers through HDFC Bank in India. This service enabled direct credit to any bank in India even if a direct tie-up was not available. Further to this, STP (Straight Through Processing) was introduced with HDFC Bank

allowing the exchange to upload files at 10minute intervals and thereby benefit HDFC customers who could withdraw their funds 24x7 through ATM outlets in a quicker, secure and more convenient manner.

Rajesh Gairola, General Manager

action agreement with Federal Bank is not only a reflection of our technological competence to implement high-end remittance products, it is also an extension of our commitment to always offer the best service to our customers.

We are currently looking at implementing similar STS services in collaboration with banks in other countries,” said Gairola.

Through their concerted efforts and objectives, AL MULLA EXCHANGE has attempted to understand the latent remittance needs of customers and then develop unique products that meet these requirements.

Gairola concluded by adding, “Due to the efficiency of our personnel, excellent services, use of cutting-edge technology and the introduction of distinctive financial transaction products, AL MULLA EXCHANGE is recognized today as one of the most dynamic money remittance organizations in Kuwait and a byword for quality, trust and reliability.”

Elaborating on the latest initiative by AL MULLA EXCHANGE that leverages the technology platform to enable services benefiting their customers, Gairola said, “Through a unique arrangement with Federal Bank, we are now implementing ‘Fed Flash’ - a Serverto-Server (STS) service, which allows Federal Bank account holders in Kuwait to transfer their money on a secure server to server connectivity that employs the latest global safety standards. Within seconds of paying at the AL MULLA EXCHANGE counter, their Federal Bank account anywhere in India will be credited with the amount and the money can be withdrawn using an ATM card at any time.

The remitter is also immediately advised of receipt of the amount into their account through an SMS. The entire transaction is conducted on a server to server basis that implements the latest internationally accepted security standards, and the entire process is fully automated.” “The STS trans-

Ford posts 63% growth F-Series sales almosttriple KUWAIT: Ford and Lincoln sales during the first half of the year posted an impressive 63 percent growth in the GCC region over the same period last year. The company continues to see market share growth around the region. The success has been attributed to soaring consumer demand combined with refreshed, innovative product-lines, growing dealership investments in the region as well as increased demand on the fleet side.

Ford sedans led the way with a 64 per cent rise in sales. The Ford Taurus, Fusion and Mustang recorded significant growth across all GCC markets; with the popular Taurus registering the biggest increase with a 163 per cent boom during the first half of the year.

Ford Fusion followed with an increase of 87 per cent and the legendary Mustang reported a 33 per cent increase in sales across the GCC. Trucks and SUVs continued to grow strongly with a 62 per cent increase where F-series stood out with almost tripled sales, and the one-ton Ranger sales nearly doubled. The alltime favorite Ford Explorer registered an impressive 62 per cent increase in sales, with the crossover utility Ford Edge up 64 per cent and full-size SUV Ford Expedition posting 57 per cent growth across GCC. Ford expects this upswing to continue as the all new Explorer arrives in the region during Ramadan.

Hussein Murad, Ford Middle East’s director of Sales said: “Yet again, Ford is going from strength to strength, as proven by our remarkable performance for the first six months.

This year certainly illustrates increased consumer confidence in and preference towards Ford products. Customers have given us a clear vote of confidence in our products that are not only world-class and award-winning, but leading in terms of technology and safety, with the richest features package.

Jayakumar wins Yukon in Gulf Bank KOC draw KUWAIT: Gulf Bank announced the winner of its second KOC quarterly prize draw for 2011. The lucky customer to win the 2011 GMC Yukon was Kallankara Jayakumar, who was presented with the keys to the automobile by Yaser Sulaiman, Executive Manager, Consumer Banking Group, Gulf Bank. Gulf Bank’s Quarterly Prize Draw for the GMC Yukon is part of the benefits offered on the KOC salary package. The KOC salary package is a specially designed banking package for KOC staff members and is a non interest bearing current account.

Gulf Bank offers this tailored package to KOC staff, whereby they can enjoy several benefits including: a chance to participate in an exclusive quarterly draw to win a brand new GMC Yukon; receive vouchers from X-Cite by Alghanim Electronics and Tanagra; free issuance charges for Visa and MasterCard credit cards; special discounts upon using Gulf Bank debit and credit cards at over 300

outlets across Kuwait; and a 10% discount on both motor and travel insurance. All KOC staff that transfer their salaries and have a valid Gulf Bank credit card are eligible to enter the quarterly draw.

On winning the brand new GMC Yukon, Jayakumar said, “I am so excited and still in shock. This is such a coincidence as I have just applied and got my driver’s license and to win a car the same week is unbelievable. I would like to thank Gulf Bank for this amazing prize and for the excellent service the Bank provides me at the KOC branch. It is great to have a convenient branch to bank at and simultaneously have the opportunity to win this car.” Gulf Bank is the only branch present at the KOC Head Office and the Bank invites all KOC staff members to visit the its branch to find out more about the KOC salary package. Gulf Bank is the only bank branch available at KOC’s Head Office.

At Ford, we expect a continued growth trend in the Middle East enabling us to capture a sizeable amount of market share, especially in light of new product launches later this year, including the highly-anticipated allnew Ford Explorer and Ford Focus.” Once again, Saudi Arabia took the lead in growth, recording 88 per cent total rise in sales for Ford and Lincoln vehicles for the first six months of 2011.

Trucks and SUVs remained the best performer for the Kingdom with an impressive 94 per cent increase over the same period last year. Sales in passenger cars also remained strong with a 79 per cent increase.

Kuwait also registered a strong uptick of 29 per cent in the first six months, with a 28 per cent increase in year-to-date car sales, and a 29 per cent boost in truck/SUV sales. Sales in Bahrain remain high with a 39 per cent increase on last year’s figures, with customers again showing strong preference for

trucks/SUVs, accounting for 46 per cent of the rise, with car sales up by 32 per cent.

In the UAE, an overall growth of 14 per cent was realized with passenger cars leading the way with a 27 per cent rise followed by 8 per cent growth in trucks/SUV sales.

Qatar demonstrated a 66 per cent growth in passenger car sales during the period while Oman reported significant sales achievement with Ford Fusion posting a 60 per cent increase. The Ford Taurus also saw sales increase in the Sultanate by 86 per cent.

“As we mark this impressive performance year-to-date, we are confident that this trend will continue to further push our market share gains in the second half of 2011,” added Murad.

“Together with our dealers we remain completely focused and determined to serve our customers with vehicles that they want with the highest quality, fuel efficiency, safety, smart design and value.”

Al-Tijari announces biggest daily draw KUWAIT: Commercial Bank of Kuwait held the Al Najma Account draw on 10th July 2011. The draw was held under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry represented by Abdulaziz Ashkanani. The winners of the Al Najma Daily Draw are:-Mohammed Khoda K aram Sayedi -KD7000; Samera Omar Mohammed AboSalamah- KD7000; Mohammed Sadiq Kaseem Kaseem- KD7000; Lamees Waleed Al Shahen-KD7000; Mohammed Husain Saif Aldeen

Bedawan-KD7000. The Commercial Bank of Kuwait announces the biggest daily draw in Kuwait with the launch of the new Najma account. Customers of the bank can now enjoy a KD7,000 daily prize which is the highest in the country and another 4 mega prizes during the year worth KD 100,000 each on different occasions: The National Day, Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha and on the 19th of June which is the date of the bank’s establishment.

EXCHANGE RATES CommercialBankofKuwait 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

.2700000 .4370000 .3880000 .3250000 .2820000 .2920000 .0040000 .0020000 .0743200 .7240800 .3810000 .0700000 .7098280 .0040000 .0430000 CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES .2737500 .4396290 .3906410 .3271980 .2846970 .0523740 .0429070 .2944180 .0351760 .2242570 .0033950 .0000000 .0000000 .0000000 .0000000 .0745610 .7264160 .0000000 .0730190 .7113160 .0000000

Al-MuzainiExchange Co.

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar

ASIAN COUNTRIES 3.414 6.181 3.194 2.504 3.881 224.080 35.302

.2765000 .4480000 .3980000 .3360000 .2920000 .3020000 .0072500 .0035000 .0750670 .7313570 .4010000 .0770000 .7169620 .0072000 .0530000 .2758500 .4430010 .3936380 .3297080 .2868810 .0527760 .0432360 .2966770 .0354450 .2259770 .0034240 .0062550 .0025260 .0032230 .0037280 .0751330 .7319890 .3901700 .0735800 .7167730 .0064910

Bangladesh Taka Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - Transfer Irani Riyal - Cash Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

3.678 6.405 9.013 0.271 0.273 GCC COUNTRIES 73.269 75.495 713.650 729.770 74.816

ARAB COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound - Cash 48.350 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 46.074 Yemen Riyal 1.258 Tunisian Dinar 201.950 Jordanian Dinar 388.010 Lebanese Lira 183.100 Syrian Lier 5.932 Morocco Dirham 35.669 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 274.650 Euro 395.910 Sterling Pound 441.090 Canadian dollar 286.390 Turkish lire 168.290 Swiss Franc 328.060 Australian dollar 293.880 US Dollar Buying 272.450

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

GOLD 1,577.020

10 Tola 20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

GOLD 278.000 140.000 72.500

SELL CASH 300.000 731.390 3.920 290.300 540.200 36.600 54.700 167.800 48.230 397.000 36.030 6.420

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 444.500 275.000

Sterling Pound US Dollar

DollarcoExchange Co. Ltd

BahrainExchange Company COUNTRY Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash Hongkong dollar Indian rupees

0.033 0.240 0.240 3.480 390.440 0.186 94.410 47.400 4.310 234.300 1.865 52.700 714.310 3.300 6.590 76.080 73.430 226.460 43.770 2.645 444.500 45.100 333.000 5.600 9.450 198.263 74.980 275.400 1.200

SELL DRAFT 298.500 731.390 3.685 288.800

226.500 46.224 395.500 35.880 6.200

Rate for Transfer US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupees Indian Rupees

Selling Rate 274.900 288.830 442.735 394.710 328.760 728.146 74.821 75.458 73.270 386.953 46.176 2.503 6.206

0.033

388.690 0.185 94.410 3.900 232.800

Pakistani Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Cyprus pound Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

3.208 3.691 6.427 674.303 3.508 9.183 5.780 3.959 91.311

KuwaitBahrainIntlExchange Co. 714.130 3.210 6.430 75.650 73.430 226.460 43.770 2.509 444.500 331.500 5.600 9.300 74.880 275.000

Currency 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 Nepali rupee Yemeni Riyal Jordanian Dinars Syrian Pounds Euro Canadian Dollars

Rate per 1000 (Tran) 274.900 3.215 6.215 2.520 3.700 6.460 74.945 73.495 730.900 46.175 447.800 0.00003280 3.910 1.550 390.600 5.750 397.600 292.600

AlMulla Exchange Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) US Dollar 274.550 Euro 395.300 Pound Sterling 443.300 Canadian Dollar 288.600 Japanese Yen 3.435 Indian Rupee 6.200 Egyptian Pound 46.150 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.507 Bangladesh Taka 3.669 Philippines Peso 6.430 Pakistan Rupee 3.200 Bahraini Dinar 731.300 UAE Dirham 74.800 Saudi Riyal 73.300 *Rates are subject to change

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

BUSINESS

European debt crisis in focus NBK Weekly Money Market Report KUWAIT: Currency markets witnessed tremendous amount of volatility during the past week.

Thursday, ECB president Trichet did precisely what markets were expecting him to do. Indeed, the ECB raised the lending rate by 25 bps and left the way open for further tightening later in the year.

The surprise came regarding Portugal and the ratings agencies.

The ECB surprised markets by suspending any considerations to what the ratings agencies say or will say regarding Portugal’s sovereign debt rating, at the same time, ignoring any effect over the credibility of the Bank.

Despite the ADP employment showing an addition of 157,000 new jobs in June, US markets sold off heavily on Friday, disappointed by an extremely weak nonfarm payrolls and a rising unemployment rate. After starting Monday at the highs, Euro sold off heavily during the week to close the week down almost 2% at 1.4265. The Sterling Pound range traded against the US Dollar, starting the week at 1.6074, reaching a high of 1.6141 and ending the week at 1.6060.

The Swiss Franc was the major outperformer between the majors, strengthening from 0.8520 to 0.8360 on Friday after the disappointing labor figures in the US. The Australian Dollar also outperformed the USD after the Reserve Bank of Australia maintained interest rates at 4.75% and the economy added 23k jobs in June. The AUD ended the week at 1.0755. In the commodit y complex, Gold regained its luster, closing the week at 1,544 in anticipation of next week’s European Banks stress test and S&P cutting Portugal sov-

ereign bonds to junk status. Oil, on the other hand, suffered heavy losses on Friday after the disappointing job numbers. Crude oil closed the week at $96.20.

EXPANDED MORTGAGE AID In an effort to boost property values and avoid additional foreclosures, the Obama administration started a new initiative last week that would require mor tgage lenders to give some unemployed homeowners who have fallen behind in their payments up to a year before the banks can foreclose on their homes. The policy change allows homeowners 12 months, instead of the current four months, to catch-up on their mortgage payments if they lost a job and have a mortgage backed by t he Fe deral Housin g Administration, White House officials said. The expanded program will help “tens of thousands” of ho meow ners, accordin g to H o u sing S ecretar y S h aun Donovan. The Obama administration announced the changes a day after the president conceded that his economic policies have not done enough to restore the lagging housing market.

SERVICES SECTOR SLOWING Ser vice industries in the US, which account for about 90% of the economy, expanded at a slower pace in June. The Institute for Supply Management’s (ISM) index of non-manufacturing businesses decreased from 54.6 in May to 53.3 in June, a drop slightly larger than expected, in a sign that the economy cooled at the end of the first half of 2011. Businesses projec t the expansion will pick up through the rest of the year as

gasoline prices provide relief for households and supply disruptions from Japan subside.

Unemployment Rises to 9.2% Employers in the US added jobs last month at the slowest pace in over nine months. Payrolls increased only by 18k, missing the 105k economists’ expectation. The unemployment rate also unexpectedly climbed to 9.2% amid the weak data, to reach the highest level this year. Expectations for unemployment were to remain at 9.1%.

EUROPE: ECB RAISES RATES AS EXPECTED Despite growing concerns about further sovereign debt crises derailing growth in the Eurozone, the European Central Bank (ECB) raised the official interest rates during their meeting last week for the second time this year.

The official rate now stands at 1.50%, up from 1.25% where it has been since April. ECB President Jean-Claude Trichet, insisted that keeping inflation risks controlled was the most important goal even for struggling countries like Greece, Portugal and Ireland. The tone of the press conference following the announcement pointed to further tightening later in the year, though perhaps not before the ECB’s president completes his term of office in October.

Par t of the problem that Eurozone ministers have been trying to solve is how to share the burden of the Greek crisis with the private sector. The idea that had gained most trac tion was the French proposal, which allows Greece to roll over its debt held by French banks into longer-dated

maturities. However, Mr. Trichet was most keen to reiterate his resolute opposition to any restructuring of Greece’s sovereign debt, even the aforementioned French proposal. This form of restructuring has been dubbed “selective default” by credit rating agencies, and it remains unacceptable to the central bank as clearly stated by Mr. Trichet.

MOODY’S DOWNGRADES PORTUGAL The credit rating agenc y Moody’s Investors Service downgraded the government debt of Portugal to junk status, saying it’s another European nation that could require a bailout. Moody’s said the motive behind the downgrade is the growing risk that Por tugal will require another round of financing from its European neighbors, with funding from the private sector a pre-condition. The rating agency also said it was concerned that Portugal will not fully meet the deficit reduction and debt stabilization targets set out in its loan agreement with the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.

The country now faces alarming challenges as it cuts spending, sustains economic growth, supports its banking system, and makes sure its taxes are collected. In a gesture to support the Portuguese banks, the ECB announced following the downgrade that it would lower its collateral standards for Portuguese paper, enabling the nation’s banks to borrow against their stocks of official debt. As Portugal’s banks rely on the ECB for liquidity, if the central bank had not relaxed its rules, the country’s banks would have been threatened.

Retail Sales Decline European retail sales declined the most in more than a year in May, as consumers from Germany to Ireland and Spain cut spending.

Sales in the 17-nation Euro region slipped 1.1% from April, when they rose 0.7%. This is the biggest decline since April 2010, and is worse than the expected drop of 1%. Retailers in Europe may struggle to maintain their sales growth as rising energy costs weaken consumers’ spending power just as governments step up budget cuts to contain the region’s debt crisis.

BOE KEEPS KEY RATE UNCHANGED The Bank of England’s (BOE) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted to keep its benchmark interest rate on hold for the 28th straight month during their meeting last week, as fears about weakening economic growth continued to outweigh concerns about persistently high inflation. As widely expected, the MPC kept the central bank’s benchmark interest rate at 0.50% and its asset purchase program unchanged at £200 billion. The BOE is trying to find a healthy balance between rising prices and a sluggish economic growth.

HOUSE PRICES RISING UK house prices rose the most in eight months in June as a lack of supply of homes for sale supported property values. Prices increased 1.2% from the previous month, when they gained 0.4%. This increase is the biggest since October 2010.

MANUFACTURING IMPROVES UK manufacturing rose at the fastest pace in more than a year in

May, as factories rebounded from the impact of an extra public holiday in April and the Japanese earthquake. Manufacturing output increased 1.8% from the previous month, the most since March 2010, after a 1.6% decline in April.

RATES UNCHANGED IN AUSTRALIA The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) left its benchmark interest rate unchanged last week, and said the nation’s growth pace may be weaker than previously forecast, triggering the local currency’s biggest drop in about three weeks. Governor Glenn Stevens held the overnight cash rate target at 4.75% for the 7th straight meeting, as widely expected. He said in a statement that inflation is expected to near the RBA’s 2% to 3% target in the next year. Stevens’ decision to extend a pause in raising rates reflects slowing expansions from Asia to Europe that dimmed prospects for an acceleration in hiring at home by mining companies like BHP Billiton. Stevens added that the European debt crisis had “added to uncertainty” about the outlook for the world economy.

LABOR MARKET: SIGNS OF IMPROVEMENT Australia’s labor market remained one of the strongest in the world in June, with the country adding another 23,400 jobs in the month and the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.9%. Economists on average had expected an unemployment rate of 4.9% in June, with the number of employed up 15,000. The figures show that Australia’s labor market remains a standout as the impact of an ongoing mining boom flows through to the economy broadly.

Saudi Economic Outlook KAMCO RESEARCH

New collection at HomeCentre KUWAIT: Celebrate the beauty of your house and rejuvenate every corner with the fresh feel of the summer.

HomeCentre, the leading market retailer in furniture and home furnishing, unleashes the new 2011 furniture collection to add that extra magnificent tick to your home. Introduce yourself to the vibrant colors and bright shades for a delightful ambience and striking decor.

Transform your interiors with the contemporary items of stylish furniture, and mix and match it with exquisite accessories, beautiful centerpieces and warm lighting for some real habitat pampering.

Refresh your favorite HomeCentre furniture with magnificently designed cushions and cloths and expand your shelves’ collectables with some unique decorations and cozy ideas.

Give your living room a total face lift by adding comfy furniture that reflects the summer delight, and choose from an array of orange, blue and purple hues.

Compliment it with some quality side and coffee tables to fit the special ambience you are creating to your house.

Colors are available in chic brown and classy black shades. What’s more, surprise your family with accent dining room sets, available in elegant leather and classical wood for a warm feel. Add some vivid candle holders, plate mats and adorned cutlery to create this royal look to your table.

As for the bedrooms, a great selection of sleek beds and simple wardrobes, to vibrant designs and colors are all available at HomeCentre. With a collection that is truly inspirational, HomeCentre offers exceptional value to every item you choose. Customers are offered a wide range of professional design and dÈcor services, from helping customers choose the right colors to recommending the dÈcor and furnishing for their dream home. Visit the nearest Home Centre showroom in Al Rai, Shuwaikh, Awqaf (Kuwait City) and Fahaheel.

RIYADH: Fiscal Stimulus Plan by Saudi government aided the economy to weather the ill effects of the financial turmoil: Saudi Arabia was able to weather the financial crisis that swept across the majority of global economies in 2008-2009, due to the large account surplus it was able to accumulate in the five years preceding the crisis, allowing the Kingdom to adjust fiscal policy and provide stimulus to counteract the effects of the global recession. The Kingdom’s experience with a crash in oil prices during the 1980s provided the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority (SAMA) ample experience in dealing with recessions, which in turn proved invaluable in the latest downturn.

As such, the countercyclical fiscal policies adopted by the Kingdom coupled with the fiscal stimulus plan provided towards infrastructure enabled Saudi Arabia to post real GDP growth of 0.6% for 2009 despite a sharp drop in oil prices. According to the Central Department of Statistics, real GDP is estimated to have grown by 3.8% in 2010. With public investment worth $373 bn budgeted for 2011-2014, the Saudi economy is set to reap the benefits of the fiscal stimulus plan and record healthy growth rates in the medium term, with real GDP, according to the IMF, forecasted to grow at 6.5% in 2011.

Heavy spending on infrastructure and services sectors are increasing the role of the public sector as a key driver for the economy: The public sector will remain the major force of the Saudi economy in 2011 and the mediumterm, while a long-term effort to diversify the economy away from its dependence on crude oil exports is expected to be undertaken to enable a greater role for the private sector.

Substantial savings that were accumulated during the 2003-2008 boom period allowed the government to play a significant role in financing new industrial and infrastructure projects, including the creation of value-added, energy intensive industries that capitalize on the Kingdom’s vast energy resources, and create jobs in manufacturing, tourism and other services sectors.

Robust Economic Growth in 2011 accompanied with Inflationary Pressure: Following a strong growth in 2010, the Saudi economy is expected to strengthen further in 2011, fuelled by a robust increase in non-oil GDP indicating a rebound in the private sector supported by massive capital spending by the government and a rally in oil prices amid rise in global oil demand as the world economy is gradually recovering from the financial turmoil. Looking ahead, the economy is poised for continued robust growth. Oil production is increasing further to compensate for lower output in the region. As a result, fiscal balance is likely to register strong surpluses in 2011.

Reflecting the positive momentum, overall real GDP growth is projected by the IMF to reach 6.5% in 2011 with inflation likely to rise to about 6% as a result of both domestic and imported factors. The IMF pointed out that strong near-term outlook for the Saudi economy provides an opportunity to address longer-term priorities, high among these are providing jobs and housing for the growing young population. Key steps by the Kingdom will be to continue progress in diversifying the economy, building on the positive business environment, and continuing to improve access to credit for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as well as for housing. The new fiscal stimulus policy initiatives entail spending commitments over the next several years which will reduce fiscal surpluses and boost activities within the private sector.

The Government remains committed to diversify its economy away from the hydrocarbon sector as its recently announced budget focuses spending on construction and services sectors to boost Fixed Capital Formation: Saudi Arabia’s non-hydrocarbon sector will play an increasingly vital role in the economy, as the Government’s initiative to diversify the economy away from the hydrocarbon sector will bolster private consumption and gross fixed capital formation (GFCF). GFCF growth is expected to outperform all other expenditure components of GDP from 2011 onwards through to 2015.

Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers approved the budget for FY-2011, projecting a deficit of SAR 40 bn ($10.7 bn), with revenues coming to SAR 540 bn ($144 bn) and expenditures adding up to SAR 580 bn ($154.7 bn).

Despite the announced deficit, it should be noted that the government uses very conservative estimates for oil prices in its budget, and as such, will likely post a budget surplus; in order to balance the budget, an oil price of approximately $70 pb would be needed, while a price of $80 pb would result in a surplus of about SAR 77 bn ($21 bn). However, with oil prices exceeding $110 pb on the back of speculations of disruptions in oil supply due to the political unrest that is prevailing in the MENA region, a budget surplus of SAR 94 bn ($25 bn) is expected to be recorded in 2011 based on a average oil price of USD 95 pb. Spending on financing new and on-going projects is set at SAR 256 bn ($68.3 bn), with a large portion of it marked for the public services sector.

The budget indicates the government’s decision to invest in human capital, as 26% of the budget is marked for education and training, while 12% is allocated for health and social affairs, with a goal of eliminating poverty and improving medical care in the Kingdom. Another 25% of the budget is

allocated towards municipality services, transport and telecommunications, water, agriculture and infrastructure, specialized credit development institutions and government financing. As part of a longer-term spending plan, the Government plans to spend SAR 580 bn ($155 bn) in 2011 with a prime focus of investing in education and infrastructure.

The private sector set to participate and play a key role in the Saudi economy: The private sector would benefit from the budget by participating in the implementation of projects for the public sector. The budgeted expenditures for 2011 are 7% higher than in 2010, which is lower than the average yearly increase during expansionary periods for Saudi Arabia in the past decade; therefore, it is supposed that the government expects the private sector to assume a greater role in the public-private development of the economy.

However, the budget includes funds allocated to specialized credit institutions to improve the financing conditions for the private sector. Although the funds allocated to these institutions are 2.7% lower than the 2010 allocation, they will support industrial projects and support human and social development, as banks in the Kingdom have only increased credit to the private sector by 3% y-o-y in 2010.

Overall, the budget continues to support the 2010-2014 five-year development plan with the goal of long-term sustainability by investing in infrastructure, healthcare, social and economic development projects, which will diversify the economy and create the human capital needed.

Attractive investment destination for foreign investors in the real estate, construction and transportation sectors: Saudi Arabia’s attractive investment environment is promising, aided by the government’s efforts to promote the non-hydrocarbon sector. The Government funded projects will raise interest amongst foreign investors, especially with regards to infrastructure upgrades. In the past decade, the Kingdom emerged to become amongst the top 10 FDI recipients in the world.

According to a recent report from the Saudi Arabia General Investment Authority (SAGIA), FDI inflows are distributed over a wide range of sectors, most important of which being real estate, construction and transportation infrastructure. During 2010, FDI dropped 33.5% to $21.6 bn, down from $36.5 bn in 2009.

Medium term economic policy aims at improving quality of life, providing job opportunities and housing facilities, in addition to improving the efficiency of the hydrocarbon sector: Economic policy for the medium term aims at maintaining and improving the efficiency of the hydrocarbon sector, while efforts are undertaken to improve edu-

cation, healthcare, transportation, and food security, along with other infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life, such as the construction of four cities that will provide job opportunities and housing for the large population of youth in the country.

Public investments planned for 20102014 include maintaining Aramco’s oil production capacity at 12 mn bpd and ramping up the output of gas, refined products and petrochemicals, construction of major rail across the Kingdom and investment in food abroad.

Oil Sector will continue to determine the Kingdom’s Fiscal Policy and any crisis arising from the volatility in oil prices is expected to be offset by the substantial savings accumulated during the boom period: Fiscal policy will continue to be determined by the performance of the oil sector with the government planning to continue fiscal expansion and capital spending.

Government expenditures are expected to increase due to rapid population growth, a rising wage bill from absorbing new labor entrants into the public sector, and rising pension and other welfare costs. However, the Kingdom should not face difficulties in meeting expenditures as oil prices remain high by historical standards and the country has accumulated substantial savings from the boom period.

Saudi crude oil prices have recovered steadily from their trough of about $32 pb in 2009 to an average of $77 pb in 2010. Oil prices are forecast to average around $95 pb in 2011, fuelled by the pickup in global oil demand and by OPEC’s supply constraint along with the geo-political tensions in the MENA region. Aided by rising oil prices, the Fiscal Stimulus Plan initiated by the Government will drive Real GDP growth in 2011 while inflation is expected to rise on the back of rising food prices and rents: The Saudi economy is estimated to have grown at 3.8% in real terms during 2010 and Real GDP is forecasted to grow at a higher rate in 2011 to record 6.5%, on the back of strong oil prices and fiscal stimulus plan implemented by the Government.

As global oil supply is expected to increase in 2012, the Kingdom’s growth is expected to cool slightly to register an average growth in real GDP of 4.1% for the period 2011-2015. In terms of inflation, rises in international food prices and non-oil commodities are expected to push inflation higher to record 6% in 2011 from 5.4% in 2010.

Furthermore, the ongoing structural housing shortage is also a key factor contributing to relatively high rent inflation. The passing of the mortgage law is expected to bring down rental prices from 2012 onwards.

Rising food prices will continue to be a key driver of headline inflation, accounting for almost half of the consumer price basket.

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business

KSE ends session on a mixed note GLOBAL DAILY MARKET REPORT

By Kjeld Lynggaard

KUWAIT: Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) ended yesterday’s session on a mixed note. Blue-chip companies edged higher, bringing marketcap weighted indices up, whereas losses staged on mid-cap stocks drove the market price index down. Investors still waiting for the banks and big companies to release their 2Q 2011 financial statements.

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Market Indices Global General Index (GGI), market weighted, ended the day up by 0.26 percent, at 192.37 point. Market Capitalization was up for the day at KD31.45bn. On the other hand, KSE Price Index closed at 6,211.2 point, shedding 1.70 points (0.03 percent) to its previous close.

Market Breadth During the session, 90 companies were traded. Market breadth was skewed towards decliners as 35 equities retreated versus 21 that advanced.

Daily Trading Activity Trading activity was down this session.

Total volume traded was down by 26.70 percent with 79.44mn shares changing hands at a total value of KD11.02mn (17.37 percent lower compared to the day before). The real estate sector was the volume leader yesterday, accounting for 30.30 percent of total shares. The banking sector was the value leader, with 33.12 percent of total traded value. National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) was the most active in terms of values traded during yesterday session, with 0.94mn shares exchanged at an aggregate value of KD1.08mn.

Top Gainers and Biggest Decliners In terms of top gainers, Independent Petroleum Group took the top spot for the day, adding 19.74 percent and closed at KD0.455. On the other hand, Zima Holding Company shed 7.81 percent and closed at KD0.118, making it the biggest decliner in the market.

Sectors-Wise The market closed with three sectors inclines led by Global Banking Index and four sector declines, with the insurance sector remained unchanged. The leading cause of the increase was the banking sector with its

From Wild Wild West to tranquility territory

index adding 0.8 percent to its previous close to end the session at 342.83 points. Four of the nine banks witnessed advances with only one decliner. The heavy weight, National bank of Kuwait (NBK), led the sector advance as its share price increased by 1.75 percent to reach KD1.160. The other advancers were Al-Ahli Bank of Kuwait, Burgan Bank, and Boubyan Bank. The only decliner in this sector was Kuwait International Bank which shed 1.59 percent from its share value to settle at KD0.300. The services sector was another gainer. The sector had six advancers and eight decliners. Independent Petroleum Group was amazingly advanced by 19.74 percent making it the biggest gainer in the market.

The stock price closed at KD0.455. Also it is worth mentioning that Arabi Group Holding had a big advance of 5.66 percent with a share price of KD0.112. Heavy weighted National Mobile Telecommunications Company (Wataniya) helped the index to inch up as its share added 1.01 percent to its value.

One notable decliner was Agility which decreased by 1.49 percent. The Real Estate sector, the volume leader at the session, saw its index retreating by 0.97 percent. Although

the sector had one big gainer which was the share price of Real Estate Trade Center that increased by 7.22 percent, it was the only gainer among eight decliners. On the other hand, National Real Estate Company was a major loser, shedding 5 percent from its share value. Also Mabanee’s stock shed by 2.3 percent.

Oil News The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $110.76 a barrel on Thursday, compared with $108.26 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

Corporate News Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) declared that Combined Group Contracting Co. (CGC) has won tender No KS/T/248, according to the website of the Central Tenders Committee (CTC). Under the KD2.76mn deal, the contractor will carry out maintenance operations for roads and open areas in Al Ahmadi governorate over 24 months. The KSE-listed company said it has not yet received any official notification. It will inform KSE management of any relevant updates duly.

rom the Wild Wild West to tranquility territory within a week, with commodity volatility as calm as the start of Team Saxo Bank/SunGard at theTour de France.

Clearly most short-term speculative accounts have reduced positions dramatically, as also seen in ETF net-long positions, whilst long-term investors have stayed put, and are possibly first watching Wimbledon and now the Tour de France, with no intention to escalate positions. Still, they may choose to stay alert like Annie and keep some powder dry for flash crashes, dips and stop related sell-offs as the secular trend for commodities remains intact. Risk-off in June reduced investor net-length significantly, back below 2008/2009 and 2010 highs despite underlying demand being intact and weather disruption supportive factors.

Oil prices floored Oil prices found the floor after the International Energy Agency hiccup.

Again, as shown in CFTC data, speculative accounts have reduced net longs in WTI and Brent and most major top five banks which were premature in hiking oil price outlooks have now revised outlooks down by $10, still eyeing WTI $110 and Brent $125. The IEA 60 mln barrel release seems to be oversubscribed, already indicating firm underlying demand clockwise from Sapporo to Vladivostok, so the impact of the emergency stock release on the global balance is likely to be relatively short-lived and longterm bullish. IEA inventory release showed yet another draw higher than expected and boosted by positive US economic data releases, WTI finished this week at the highs of 98,60 from last Fridays 94,50 whilst underlying fundamentals remain bullish for oil as we are living with no spare capacity.

Natural Gas traders akin with US weather prophet You really have to be a US weather prophet to week trade natural gas to

determine if air conditioning is on and off with no correlation with Dow Jones. US natural gas futures slid more than four percent lthis week, pressured by weaker cash gas and improved nuclear generation despite some ongoing heat. Inventory data caused another day tumble to lows of $4.13 MMBtu. The IEA storage report showed 95 Bcf injection much higher than expected and with the deficit set to evaporate before summer ends, the outlook for gas is looking increasingly bearish.

Precious metals - Hype is behind us When my Mum and cab driver do not mention silver and gold for three weeks, then I know the Q1 hype and price rally is behind us. Also ETP silver product flow shows the smallest net long positions in three months and with a clear indication that speculative accounts are not willing to take gold prices higher than1550 - with producer hedging obvious and break-even prices for cost of production putting a firm bottom under the market around 1200 ex profits - then around 1400 seems to be the absolute floor currently from a demand/supply perspective. However good news from the global auto sales industry is keeping a floor under platinum prices after the Japanese tsunami earthquake related soft patch trend. Gold wobbled back and forth this week on ratings issues and closed 3% up on the week. With positions being fairly neutral, the next move will be fierce, so stay alert!

Agriculture - China steps in This week is busy again as USDA and WASDE report crop conditions, ending stocks and production and with US weather changing by the minute all grain products are facing volatility going into this week. This week however was recovery week followed by last week’s dramatic limit down sell-offs in wheat and corn on the back of acreage and ending stocks data, with major news that China was stepping in buying corn for storage again.

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

business

Albisher & Alkazemi launches the new Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster Passion, style and innovative technology KUWAIT: With the completely newly developed SLK, one of the most exciting and successful sports cars ever built is entering its third generation. The new roadster uncompromisingly takes driving pleasure and open-air enjoyment to a new level. It blends light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, a striking sports-car design with total suitability for everyday use, top performance with exemplary ecology. What’s more, the SLK is proud to present the world premiere of the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which switches to light or dark at the touch of a button.

Exemplary efficiency and sporty flair come courtesy of powerful new 4- and 6-cylinder engines featuring the standard-specification ECO start/stop function. With their superb levels of performance, they are up to 25 percent more economical than their predecessors. With a unique set of safety equipment and a wealth of technical innovations, the SLK is once again the benchmark in its class. “The new SLK embodies the role of the trend-setter like no other car”, says Mr. Michael Ruehle, General Manager, Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co Kuwait. “I am convinced that with its passionate design, its high-quality interior it will continue to provide an enormous amount of fun on the road in future, too, consolidating its status as a cult roadster.”

The New standard equipment includes: - Newgeneration 4 and 6-cylinder engines with direct injection; Adaptive brake lights; Attention Assist; Audio 20 CD with 5.8-inch color display, Bluetooth hands-free system, central head unit and USB connection; NECK-PRO head restraints; ECO start/stop function; Electric parking brake (EPB); Headbags in the doors; LED tail lights; Air conditioning; Boot with reversible floor and two elastic straps to secure luggage; Optimized seven-speed 7GTRONIC PLUS automatic transmission in the SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY; Tyre pressure loss warning system; Daytime running lamps; Integrated aerials, also for GPS; Brushed aluminium trim

AIRSCARF familiar from the preceding model.

MAGIC SKY CONTROL For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering a choice of three variants of the lightweight-construction vario-roof for the new SLK. In just a few seconds this feature transforms the roadster into a coupÈ with a “fixed” roof at the touch of a button and vice versa.

skinned plastic claddings with a high-quality softlook surface. As an optional extra these rear claddings can be of anodised aluminium.

For the first time, the tail lights with their pronounced horizontal emphasis are in all-LED technology. Their upper edge extends forward into the sides, harmoniously culminating in the feature line. A twin exhaust system with trapezoidal tailpipes rounds off the muscular impression created by the rear view.

MAGICAL LIGHTING An ambient lighting system available as an option for the first time creates an impressive effect in the interior of the new SLK. It consists of discreet optical fibers and spots in SOLAR RED, which produce an extremely pleasant yet sporty lighting effect in the door panels, around the door pulls and on both sides of the centre console. This mood-enhancing ambient lighting is activated when the doors are opened (“welcome home” effect), and its intensity can be individually varied by a dimmer.

INTERIOR WITH STYLE With the most compact dimensions in its class,

the new SLK has an interior whose generous size is exemplary.

To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments which offer the driver and passenger a real feel-good ambience. The interior is characterized by sporty refinement, wellthought-out ergonomics and high-quality, authentic materials which have been processed with painstaking attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship. Even in the base version the centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminum.

Wood can be selected as an option in highgloss dark brown walnut or high-gloss black ash.

Four round, galvanized air outlets integrated in the dashboard emphasize that this model well and truly belongs to the Mercedes-Benz sports car family, their shape being derived from those in the SLS. Other high-quality items of equipment include a multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened lower section and a thick leather rim, plus optional sun-reflecting leather which noticeably reduces the degree to which the surfaces it covers heat up, impressive ambient lighting which for the first time has a red color tone, and the innovative neck-level heating system

COMMUNICATION AND ENTERTAINMENT A radio and other entertainment media are a matter of course in today’s vehicles, electronic navigation systems have meanwhile almost as common, and it must be possible to integrate a mobile phone easily into the onboard network. To meet these requirements in the best possible way, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the new SLK with latest-generation telematics. The top-of-the-range COMAND Online is even internet-capable, and enables the driver to enjoy the benefits of the World Wide Web in the car.

HIGH LEVELS OF SAFETY The new SLK’s bodyshell structure has been further refined, with the bonnet and wings now made of aluminum.

The new Mercedes-Benz SLK also sets new benchmarks in terms of safety. The third generation of the powerful trend-setter will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, developed

by Mercedes-Benz and fitted as standard; the optional anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE(r), which is unique in the world; and the PRE-SAFE(r) Brake, which can apply the brakes autonomously in the event of an impending rearend collision. This means that with the SLK too, Mercedes-Benz is consistently and significantly exceeding the requirements imposed by safety standards.

SPORTY PRESENCE The designers have tailor-made an outfit for the new SLK which emphasizes its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight to thrilling effect. Behind the long bonnet is a compact passenger compartment positioned far back, and a short tail end. The SLK will tempt potential customers with the key attributes that characterize all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz and that have also made many of them automotive icons. At the rear the eye is drawn to the integrated spoiler lip and wide tail light clusters. The roll-over bars feature double-

Qualitynet launches ‘Vulkano’ KUWAIT: Qualitynet, Kuwait’s No 1 Internet and Data Services Provider announced the release of Vulkano, the first TV shift device in Kuwait, which allows you to watch TV programming through the Internet anywhere in the world. The device makes a perfect companion for the summer with vacations and the high season for travelling. The Vulkano device is among the most popular equipment worldwide for TV Entertainment via the Internet.

Essa Al-Kooheji, GM - Consumer Services, said that Qualitynet’s latest offering - the Vulkano device - reaffirms the company’s position as the leader in continuous innovation in Kuwait’s Internet Services Industry. He said that the Vulkano device is the perfect accessory to watch your favorite TV shows, matches or any other TV program from anywhere in the world on your PC, smart phone, laptop or tablet, without having to miss out on anything.

“In addition to watching live TV programming over the Internet on your devices, you can also schedule and record T V programming to your Smartphone, PC, Mac or Tablet, from anywhere in the world. This gives you the added advantage of being able to watch your favorite shows at your convenience. The device is extremely easy to use, and only requires having to plug in the device into your regular TV receiver, enabling live TV streaming”, said Essa. He also said that the application that allows viewing the TV pro-

Egypt’s inflation eases slightly on food prices Central bank expected to keep rates on hold

Essa Al-Kooheji grams on your various devices is an easily downloadable application, giving you the flexibility of watching TV on multiple devices.

Essa added “The Vulkano device has a wide range of features. You can control your T V programming on any mobile over 3G or Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world, watch YouTube videos on your big screen TV, watch programming in near HD resolution on enabled devices and even change channels or view program guides, just as if you had the TV remote in your hand”. He also mentioned the cost efficiency and flexibility that the device offers, as it uses only your existing paid TV service with no additional fees, and it connects to all major TV sources such as cable, DVD, satellite or DVR. For any further information, please contact Qualitynet’s PR office at 22902139.

CAIRO: Egyptian inflation in the year to June eased slightly on the back of lower food prices from a year earlier, supporting a hold in central bank interest rates in July to support an economy reeling from the impact of the revolt that ousted President Hosni Mubarak. Urban consumer inflation was 11.8 percent in the 12 months to June from 11.87 percent in May, Egypt’s state statistics agency CAPMAS reported on its website yesterday. But on a monthly basis, prices increased 0.4 percent in June, as prices of food and tobacco increased from May. Analysts expect the central bank to keep interest rates steady in July to stimulate growth, saying the government is more concerned about ending a recession than fighting inflation. Raising rates to combat fooddriven inflation would have a limited or no effect on overall prices.

Simon Williams, chief economist at HSBC Middle East, said he expected inflation to ease in July and predicted the central bank would leave its benchmark overnight deposit and

lending rates unchanged in its meeting on July 21. “The flat headline number masks weaker underlying inflationary trend. I expect to see price growth in single digits next month for the first time in two years.” Food and beverage prices, which account for 44 percent of the weighting of the basket Egypt uses to measure inflation, decelerated 18.98 percent in the year to June from 19.8 percent in May. RECESSION Egypt’s economy fell into recession after the uprising that toppled Mubarak, as vital sources of foreign exchange including tourism and foreign investment collapsed.

Real gross domestic product contracted by 4.2 percent in the fiscal third quarter from January to March, its first year-on-year contraction since Egypt’s first release of quarterly GDP data in 2001/02. The central bank Monetary Policy Committee kept its key lending rate at 9.75 percent and the deposit rate at 8.25 percent on June 9, saying the magni-

Bears circle India’s slowing economy

Eyeing oil, Beijing promises strong ties with S Sudan BEIJING: Chinese President Hu Jintao congratulated South Sudan on its independence, promising strong ties between the two countries as China seeks to retain its access to Sudanese oil supplies. China is a major buyer of Sudanese crude oil, and has been keen to ensure the partition of Sudan into two states would not descend into fighting that could disrupt supplies and damage Beijing’s stake on both sides of the new border.

China has long had close relations with the government in Khartoum, but has been moving to ensure it also remains friendly with South Sudan, where the majority of the old unified Sudan’s oil reserves were.

“Although China and the Republic of South Sudan are separated by thousands of miles, the two peoples have a deep traditional

friendship and common wish to enhance friendly exchanges,” Hu told President Salva Kiir in a telephone call. “China’s establishment of diplomatic ties with South Sudan has opened a new chapter in relations between the two countries,” Hu said, according to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry late on Saturday on its website (www.mfa.gov.cn).

China is willing to “establish a long-term, friendly and stable cooperative relationship with South Sudan, to the benefit of the peoples of both nations”, Hu added. Jiang Weixin, Hu’s envoy to the ceremonies marking South Sudan’s nationhood, said he hoped South Sudan and Sudan would maintain friendly ties, according to a separate statement on the Foreign Ministry’s website. —Reuters

tude of the decline in the economy was larger than expected at the outset of the revolt.

Economists say political uncertainty will continue to dampen investor appetite and tourism at least up until parliamentary and presidential elections due later this year.

A Reuters poll on June 21 forecast that Egypt’s economy would see its slowest growth in many years over the next two years as the political upheaval continued to hit tourism, investment and private consumption. The survey of 12 economists predicted gross domestic product (GDP) in the Arab world’s most populous nation would grow 3.0 percent in the fiscal year ending June 2012, based on the median figure. That compares to a government estimate of no more than 3.03.5 percent. The Reuters poll forecast inflation, one of the key triggers of the mass demonstrations that toppled Mubarak, would accelerate slightly to an average of 12 percent in the 2011/12 financial year, before falling to 10.1 percent the year after. — Reuters

NEW DELHI: Indian workers prepare to tug an electrical cable with a rope at a construction site in New Delhi yesterday. — AP

NEW DELHI: Not long ago it was the toast of investors, but India’s appeal has taken a hit, with bearish sentiment building thanks to worries over stubbornly high inflation and widespread political corruption. Investor ardor for Asia’s thirdlargest economy has been cooled by a litany of bad news, from slowing growth, rising prices and spiraling interest rates to paralysis on economic reforms and a string of high-profile graft scandals.

Last week, global business information agency Dun and Bradstreet reported that its India business optimism index had fallen by a hefty 22 percent quarter-on-quarter. “There has been a confluence of bad news dragging down sentiment,” Kaushal Sampat, Dun and Bradstreet’s India chief executive said. The bad news comes as the government battles multiple corruption scandals that forced the resignation of a second cabinet minister last week over accusations he abused his power while he held the telecom portfolio.

“There are so many political fires, it makes

it hard for the government to focus on the economic challenges such as reforms needed to spur growth,” says Sampat.

Data for the January to March quarter showed annual economic growth of 7.9 percent-the slowest in five quarters. The key manufacturing sector grew by 5.5 percent, its weakest pace in 18 months.

Quarterly net direct tax collections have fallen 17 percent year-on-year as economic activity decelerates. Economists blame the downturn on stubbornly high inflation, which 10 interest rate hikes since March 2010 have failed to tame.

Price pressures are now spreading from food and energy to manufacturing. “The continual rise in credit costs and high inflation have hurt both investment and consumption,” says Deepak Lalwani, head of London-based India-focused investment consultancy Lalcap. Factory output has slowed in both India and China, the fastest-growing major global economies, as central bankers have boosted lending rates to fight inflation. —AFP

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business

US debt talks scaled back over tax rift Taxes, entitlement cuts still a sticking point WASHINGTON: A broad $4 trillion deal on US deficit reduction appeared out of reach on Saturday as Republican leader John Boehner cited a rift with the White House on taxes and proposed pursuing a more modest package.

“Despite good-faith efforts to find common ground, the White House will not pursue a bigger debt-reduction agreement without tax hikes,” Boehner, the speaker of the House of Representatives and the top Republican in Congress, said in a statement. “I believe the best approach may be to focus on producing a smaller measure.”

Boehner and President Barack Obama, who hoped to bolster his bid for re-election in 2012 with the achievement of a historic deficitreduction package, spoke about the negotiations by phone on Saturday.

On the eve of a meeting between Obama, Boehner and other congressional leaders at the White House, staff for both Republicans and Democrats have been working through the weekend. Obama and Boehner had both set their sights on an ambitious $4 trillion plan, but Boehner’s abandonment of the bigger goal means the negotiations will likely now focus on a package that would cut the deficit by more

than $2 trillion over a decade.

An aide to Obama said the president would not back off in his efforts to solve US debt problems and will make the case to congressional leaders in talks today for taking on “this

WASHINGTON: House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of Calif gestures while speaking on Capitol Hill in Washington, to discuss the debt ceiling. — AP critical challenge.” “We need a balanced approach that asks the very wealthiest and special interests to pay their fair share,” White House

Back to square one on eurozone’s debt crisis FRANKFURT: After a glimmer of hope in the Greek debt crisis, is it back to the drawing board for eurozone leaders as they struggle to protect the single currency and its 17-nation economy?

“That’s for sure ... that’s why the ECB has probably always had the position that having talks about private sector involvement was not a particularly brilliant idea,” UniCredit chief eurozone economist Maro Valli said. Bogged down in how to square the circle of pulling Greece out of a quagmire again without triggering a potentially fatal debt default, European Union leaders thought they had found a way out by involving the private sector.

If PSI, as it is known, was obtained on a ‘voluntary’ basis and took some of the burden of a second Greek bailout, it would reduce the sums governments had to put up and pacify taxpayers peeved at having to pay all over again.

Formalized in a French plan for private banks to rollover Greek government bonds as they came due, things looked good until ratings agency Standard and Poor’s said last week that such an arrangement would be tantamount to default.

To add insult to injury, Moody’s slashed its Portugal rating to junk status, in part because the French plan not only “increases the economic risks facing current investors but also because it may discourage new private sector lending going forward.” That could “reduce the likelihood that Portugal will soon be able to regain market access on sustainable terms,” making a second bailout for Lisbon a real possibility as well, Moody’s said.

In other words, the Portuguese bailout negotiated only months ago would likely not work - and by implication, last year’s Irish rescue could fail too. Germany then leapt into the fray by reviving a Greek bond-swap proposal the European Central Bank (ECB) has already rejected. The resulting impasse leaves the idea of PSI almost dead in the water while markets demand ever higher rates of return to provide funding for weak eurozone members, and Italy and Spain are now at risk of being sucked in.

ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet “warned about that several times but politicians do not seem to hear it,” Valli

noted. “I would not be surprised, if current market tension persists, that private sector involvement could be shelved for good,” at least regarding the second Greek rescue, he added.

Economists say that even if PSI were to work, institutional investors will not come up with anywhere near the 2030 billion euros certain politicians have suggested out of a total package worth some 100 billion euros ($143 billion).

The ECB has contributed to the tension by stressing that if private sector involvement led ratings agencies to declare Greece in default, it could no longer accept Greek government debt as collateral for loans to Greek banks.

That would probably cause the Greek banking sector to collapse. “If the ECB stuck to its guns, it would be the ECB proper that would actually transform something that is already pretty bad into something truly catastrophic,” Deutsche Bank senior economist Gilles Moec said.

Economists doubt the ECB will take that risk, rather they believe it wants eurozone governments to take responsibility for resolving the debt crisis, as Trichet stressed again on Thursday.

The idea of a Greek default, in full or even partial and short-term, was totally unacceptable at this point, he said. “No credit event, no selective default, no default. That is the present message of the (ECB) governing council,” Trichet said. Some critics noted that by hiking its benchmark lending rate to 1.50 percent Thursday to tackle rising inflation, the ECB added to the pressure on debt-laden eurozone members.

The central bank, however, still lends unlimited amounts of cash to commercial banks in those countries and has bought huge amounts of their public debt on secondary markets, a way of providing exceptional financial support. In the end, more and more economists expect Greece to default on its debt, vociferous eurozone and ECB denials notwithstanding, which some say would provide a chance to create a full-blown, centralized fiscal union. “At some stage an outright, big bang-like step into a fiscal union might be the only way to keep the euro area alive,” UBS economist Stephane Deo said.— AFP

Qantas refuses to rule out job cuts SYDNEY: Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce refused yesterday to rule out cutting jobs at the Australian airline as part of a restructure to improve its international business and capture Asian growth.

Qantas, which is facing possible strike action from some employees including pilots, has already said that its international business is underperforming and can no longer be sustained by the airline’s more profitable assets.

Joyce said the company strategy to be unveiled on August 24 would look at the carrier’s investments and partnerships as well as how the airline can capitalize on the growing Asian market. But it would also cast “an honest and fairly aggressive view on the performance of the international network and making cuts where we need to make them and it’s important for us to do that.” Joyce said Qantas had not made any pilots redundant during the global financial crisis, but had asked them to take

Communications Director Dan Pfeiffer said in a statement. The White House needs to secure a deal on deficit reduction to clear the way for an increase in the $14.3 trillion debt ceiling before a deadline of Aug. 2, when

annual leave to help cope with the slowdown. “We have had a surplus of pilots for some time,” he added.

Asked whether there would be job losses, Joyce said all would be clear after the review which comes after Qantas said in June it will achieve its best result since the global financial crisis in 2011 with underlying profit before tax expected of at least Aus$500 million (US$537 million). “I think what we have to do is go through this review and wait till August 24 and then we’ll be very clear on what the implications of that review are and then we can bring certainty to the market, to our employees, to our customers about what Qantas is going to do into the future,” he said.

Joyce said Qantas had not increased ticket prices after authorities grounded rival carrier Tiger Airways Australia until at least August 1 due to “serious and imminent” safety risks but had picked up about 10,000 of its passengers.— AFP

the Treasury has warned the United States faces risk of a default. The White House and private economists say a default could push the United States

back into recession and trigger global financial chaos.

BALKING AT TAX INCREASES Democrats want to shield popular domestic programs from huge cuts and say that any deal must include increases in tax revenue. Many Republicans have said they would not support a package that includes any tax increases.

A $4 trillion deficit reduction plan would have involved reining in spending on the Social Security retirement program and Medicare, the government-run healthcare program for the elderly. Many in Obama’s Democratic Party oppose such cuts.

Aides to Obama and Boehner were discussing revenue increases that would have been achieved in part by a streamlining of the tax code.

Democrats were seeking $1 trillion in additional revenue, an increase that many rank-and-file Republicans appeared loath to support. One Republican familiar with the deficit talks said taxes and cuts in benefit programs were both sticking points.

“The White House would not agree with the core elements of tax reform proposed by the speaker,” the Republican source said. “A gulf also remains between the speaker and the

White House on the issue of mediumand long-term structural reforms.”

Leana Fallon, an aide to House Republican Leader Eric Cantor, said the tax increases Democrats wanted “cannot pass the House” and urged that the talks focus on a framework for between $2 and $2.5 trillion in cuts discussed in meetings led by Vice President Joseph Biden during May and last month.

Democratic Representative Chris Van Hollen blamed the abandonment of a bigger deficit-reduction goal on a “Republican fixation with protecting tax breaks for corporate special interests and the very wealthy.”

The Biden talks had identified savings of between $1.9 trillion and $2.7 billion. Republicans want an agreement for at least $2 trillion in cuts as the price for a debt limit increase that would be big enough to accommodate the nation’s borrowing needs through the 2012 election. But even with a scaled-back goal, it might still be difficult to resolve the differences over taxes.

At a minimum, Democrats want to close enough tax loopholes to bring in $400 billion in new revenue.

Republicans want any elimination of tax breaks to be offset by cuts elsewhere.— Reuters

China trade surplus widens Imports losing steam BEIJING: China’s imports grew a surprisingly weak 19.3 percent last month from a year earlier, slowing from the 28.4 percent pace in May, reflecting softer domestic demand as monetary policy started to bite.

Exports, meanwhile, rose 17.9 percent last month from a year ago, also slowing from a 19.4 percent rise in May, indicating the impact from tepid growth in the world economy. That left the country with a trade surplus of $22.3 billion in June, compared with $13.1 billion in May. The median forecast of economists polled by Reuters was for exports to rise 18.7 percent and imports to grow 25.0 percent, resulting in a trade surplus of $16.3 billion.

The weaker-than-expected growth in both imports and exports could fuel investor concerns about the possibility of a sharp economic slowdown in China. But most analysts see little risk of a hard landing in the world’s second-largest economy. The government is due to announce second-quarter economic growth data on Wednesday. “Imports were below expectations,” noted David Cohen, economist at Action Economics in Singapore. “We are perhaps seeing some reflection of loss of momentum in China’s growth. After all, there has been tightening policy. “The numbers are consistent with decelerating growth, with the soft landing that many people are looking for.”

Beijing has repeatedly vowed to restructure its economy, cutting

NANJING: Meat vendors wait for customers at their store at a market in Nanjing in east China’s Jiangsu province. — AP its reliance on exports and investment, and promoting domestic consumption in their place. As a result, import growth has become a bellwether for the strength of Chinese demand.

Analysts expect a slowdown in imports following a spate of government tightening measures aimed at curbing inflation. Last week, the central bank raised interest rates for the third time

this year, underlying the government’s confidence in the economy’s ability to cope with tighter monetary policy.

A slowdown in China’s export growth had been anticipated in response to the slowing US economy and as factory growth in Asia and Europe slid to multi-month lows in June. The surplus in June was the highest in seven months.

China’s trade surpluses have

fuelled criticism from key trade partners who accuse Beijing of giving its exporters an unfair boost with a cheap currency.

Despite the latest data, China’s trade surplus is on track to narrow for a third straight year from last year’s $183 billion as the government tries to rebalance the economy in favor of domestic consumption, cutting reliance on exports.— Reuters

Luxury brands riding high on stock market PARIS: Purveyors of luxury and indulgence flirted with record stock market valuations this week as investors looked past a litany of bad economic figures and the eurozone debt crisis to focus on the fundamentals. Dealers said successful share floats for such fashion icons as Prada in Hong Kong-a key market for investors and buyers alike-and Salvatore Ferragamo in Milan boosted interest and offered the prospect of further gains. Asia shines like a beacon for the companies, where a fast growing middle class is chasing the good life as emerging economies in China, India and across the region throw off wealth as never before.

Upcoming first half results are also expected to be stellar, with many expecting an exceptional performance from the likes of LVMH, which runs a stable of global brand names from perfumes to wines and champagne. “2011 could be a record year in regards to margins, sales and share prices,” Francois Arpels, chief executive at investment bank Bryan Garnier said.

The sector does look promising. According to consultancy Bain & Company, the global market for luxury goods and services should grow by eight percent this year, pushed by 25 percent gains in China and 15 percent in the rest of the Asia Pacific.

Global banking giant HSBC-which knows Asia first handforecasts a 15 percent increase in demand for luxury goods in 2011 and an 11 percent jump in 2012. Even Japanese sales have rebounded since the devastating March earthquake caused such loss of life and damage to the economy, HSBC analysts said. The luxury sector, once seen as vulnerable to the first signs of trouble, appears to have taken on an extraordinary resilience in recent years, as shown by its performance after the start of the global economic slump in 2008. “Brands got through the crisis, sales fell by only 4.4 percent in 2009,” holding up while other sectors went through the floor, Thomas Mesmin of CA Cheuvreux said.

Better yet, luxury companies used the opportunities offered by the world recession “to refocus on leading products,” said Arpels. Bigger companies have built up their cash resources and are on the acquisition trail, another feature drawing in investors. Among recent deals was the LVMH buyout of Bulgari in March and the building up of a major stake in Hermes while fierce rival PPR acquired a controlling stake in Sowind Group, the Swiss watchmaker.— AFP

TARNICHANE: People gather lavender flowers during a harvest near the village of Tarnichane, some 170km east of Sofia. Bulgaria, one of the world’s top lavender oil producers, eyes high demand and booming prices this season. —AFP

Iraq, Shell to initial $12 billion gas deal BAGHDAD: Iraq will initial a final contract with Royal Dutch Shell tomorrow for a $12-billion project to capture flared gas at southern oilfields, two sources close to the deal said yesterday. Iraq’s oil ministry, Shell and Japanese project partner Mitsubishi have worked out differences that had delayed the joint venture with Iraq’s South Gas Co since a draft agreement was struck in 2008. “We have agreed on everything. The initial signing is tomorrow,” said an Iraqi oil source.

The final version of the contract, which has been held up by legal prob-

lems and political disagreement, will be sent to the cabinet for approval after it is initialed this week, another source close to the deal said. Iraq has struggled for years with power blackouts and risks years of electricity shortages until associated gas from vast oil fields in the south is captured and fed to new power plants.

Under the agreement with Shell more than 700 million cubic feet per day of gas could be captured at three southern fields-Rumaila, Zubair and West Qurna Phase One-to help meet rapidly rising demand for electricity.—Reuters

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TECHNOLOGY

Cuban cellphones reach 1 million, Net access lags Number of cellphones grows after restrictions lifted HAVANA: The number of Cubans using cellphones has risen sharply two years after the government lifted restrictions on mobile telephones, but few people have a personal computer or access to the Internet, according to a new report. There were a million mobile phones in the communist-run country at the end of 2010, up from 621,000 in 2009 and 330,000 in 2008, when all Cubans were allowed to buy and use them for the first time, the National Statistics Office said in a report posted on its website.

Cuba has a similar number of fixed tele-

phone lines. In a country of 11.2 million inhabitants, the country has a total telephone density of just under 20 percent, the lowest in Latin America, according to the United Nations International Telecommunications Union. Mobile phones are only available in a local dollar-pegged currency and sending even a tweet from a mobile phone can cost more than the average daily earnings of many Cubans. The report said there were 64 computers and 159 Internet users per 1,000 residents in 2010, though most had access only to a

Atlantis to dock with intl space station on last flight CAPE CANAVERAL: The crew of Atlantis prepared to link up with the International Space Station yesterday as part of the final mission of the US space shuttle program. The space shuttle, which began its journey to the station on Friday, is carrying four US astronauts who will help re-stock the orbiting lab. The crew awoke yesterday at 3:29 am (0729 GMT) to the tune “Mr. Blue Sky” played by the Electric Light Orchestra, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration said.

Before docking, Commander Chris Ferguson will execute a series of jet firings to fine-tune the shuttle’s path.

Atlantis should arrive directly below the station at 10:06 am (1406 GMT) and perform a “backflip” to enable space station crew members to snap hundreds of high resolution photographs of the shuttle’s heat shield and other areas of potential interest.

Imagery analysts will then pore over the photos to determine the health of the shuttle’s thermal protection system. Once the rotation is completed, Atlantis will fly in front of the station before slowly backing in for docking.

Hatches will be opened between the two spacecraft at 1:19 pm (1719 GMT), according to the NASA plan. On Saturday, the Atlantis crew inspected the craft’s thermal protection system, the outer barrier that protects it from the searing heat upon re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere. Crew members used the shuttle’s robotic arm “and 50-foot (15-meter) long orbiter boom sensor system to get a close-up look at the shuttle’s wing leading edges and nose cap,” NASA said in a statement.

The inspections “are standard operations to ascertain if there was any

ascent damage to the vehicle’s heat shield tiles,” NASA said. In February 2003 the space shuttle Columbia was destroyed upon re -entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, and a panel of experts concluded that a heat shield tile on the craft’s wing was damaged at blast-off, fatally compromising the craft’s re-entry protection. The Atlantis shuttle mission marks the end of an era in human spaceflight. The United States will soon have no spacecraft capable of taking astronauts into orbit, leaving Russia’s three-seat Soyuz capsule as the sole taxi to the ISS. Once the shuttle retires, astronauts will be limited to catching rides to the ISS aboard the Soyuz spacecraft at a cost of $51 million per ticket. As many as 8,000 people, mostly at the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida are being laid off with the closure of the shuttle program. In the days leading up to Atlantis’s last launch, NASA fended off criticism over the lack of an immediate successor to the shuttle and showed off the design of the Orion space capsule, the basis for a multipurpose crew vehicle that may someday travel to deep space. “I don’t see this is as the end of the golden era,” said NASA associate administrator for space operations Bill Gerstenmaier after the launch. “I see it as a transition.”

Private companies like SpaceX, Boeing and Sierra Nevada are competing to become the first to build a nextgeneration space capsule to take astronauts and cargo to the orbiting research lab. But those plans are not likely to come to fruition before 2015 at the earliest. Former president Richard Nixon ordered the shuttle program in the 1970s, and the first shuttle mission was launched in 1981. — AFP

government controlled Intranet through computer clubs and workplaces since Internet access requires special government permission.

There is no broadband Internet in Cuba and the relatively few Internet users in the country suffer through agonizingly long waits to open an email, let alone view a photo or video, which also hampers government and business operations. Cuba blames the United States embargo for denying access to underwater cables, saying it must use a satellite system and is limited in the

SAN FRANCISCO: Apple escalated its legal fight with Samsung by asking the US International Trade Commission (USITC) to block imports of some of the South Korean firm’s smartphones and tablet computers. In a filing Tuesday, Apple asked the USITC to look into its complaint that Samsung is infringing on the California-based company’s patents in “electronic digital media devices” including its Galaxy lines of smartphones and tablets.

“Samsung has followed each of Apple’s groundbreaking products with imitation products that incorporate Apple’s technology and distinctive design,” Apple counsel Alexander Hadjis said in the USITC complaint.

Apple contended that the South Korean electronics giant was using its patented technology in components such as touchpads, software and audio interfaces. Hadjis branded Samsung “one of the principal infringers” of Apple intellectual property. Apple patents at issue ranged from headphone technology to “ornamental design features.” Apple asked the independent, quasi-judicial federal agency to stop offending Samsung devices from being imported into the United States for sale.

Samsung could not be reached immediately for a response Wednesday. Last week, Samsung asked the US ITC to ban the import of Apple products into the United States, expanding a patent war with the US mobile gadgets star.

The ITC has been urged to stop Apple shipping its popular iPods, iPhones and iPads into the US market from where they are manufactured, a Samsung spokesman said. It accuses Apple of breaching patents related to wireless communications standards and mobile device user interface. “The complaint requests relief in the form of a permanent exclusion order

With that many iPads we could: Create a wall of iPads, 4,005-miles long and 61-feet high extending from Anchorage, Alaska to Miami, Florida. ● Build the Great iPad Wall of China-at twice the average height of the original ● Build a 20-foot high wall around South America ● Cover 86% of Mexico City ● Build a mountain 25-times higher than Mt. Fuji ●

BEIJING: It is the most popular subject on China’s Internet that no one is allowed to talk about. After overseas media reported the death of former President Jiang Zemin, web-savvy Internet users in China are finding creative ways to jump the Great Firewall, the cloak of Internet security authorities use to disrupt or halt access to things deemed too sensitive for the Internet. Type “Jiang Zemin” into a microblog or search box in China and you don’t get much but a blocked site or a sluggish connection. Write it into a blog and you are inviting scrutiny. Sensitive comments are often deleted as quickly as they appear. But using terms like “Uncle Jiang,”

“super-sovereign backstage ruler,” and “former emperor,” Chinese are engaging in a rather lively, if oblique, debate about the issue. Chinese state media denied a Hong Kong television station’s reports that Jiang had died, sparking a wave of speculation about the 84-year-old’s condition. Despite censorship, the keyword search “Jiang Zemin” was the most-discussed topic on the popular Twitter-style site Weibo on Wednesday night. More than 140 million Chinese have embraced microblogs- 140character messages-as their latest tool for spreading information and opinions that can rile Chinese Communist Party’s officials. — Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO: Apple CEO Steve Jobs at the Apple Worldwide Developers conference. — AP prohibiting entry to the United States of all Apple products in violation of these patents,” Samsung said in a statement. “Samsung will continue to actively defend our intellectual property.” The latest action ramped-up the wrangling between the world’s two fastest growing smartphone makers.

The tussle began when Apple filed suit against Samsung in April in San Francisco, accusing the Korean firm of copying its smartphones and tablet computers. Samsung responded later that month with a lawsuit in Seoul alleging five patent infringements by Apple. It filed separate actions in Tokyo, citing two patent infringements, and in the

German city of Mannheim citing three. Last month Apple lodged a second lawsuit against Samsung with a district court in Seoul, asking for a sales ban on Samsung’s latest products. It accused them of copying the iPhone and iPad. Samsung’s Galaxy Tab has been a huge-selling rival to the iPad, which has dominated the growing market for the touchscreen devices. Despite their prickly competition in finished products, the two firms have a close business relationship.

Apple was Samsung’s second-largest client in 2010 after Japan’s Sony, accounting for four percent of the South Korean firm’s $142 billion annual revenue. — AFP

World’s data more than doubling every two years

In terms of sheer volume, 1.8 zettabytes of data is equivalent to: ● Every person in the United States tweeting 3 tweets per minute for 26,976 years nonstop ● Every person in the world having over 215 million high-resolution MRI scans per day ● Over 200 billion HD movies (each 2 hours in length)-would take 1 person 47 million years to watch every movie 24x7 ● The amount of information needed to fill 57.5 billion 32GB Apple iPads.

Chinese evade censors, search for ‘Uncle Jiang’

government and authorities regularly raid neighborhoods and homes in search of satellite dishes.

Officials insist data detailing individual use and ownership of computers and telephones is misleading and argue the country’s technological priorities are on encouraging social use at government-operated computer clubs.

In 2008, Cuban President Raul Castro legalized the sale of computers and cellphones in a move aimed at easing the economic hardship faced by Cubans. — Reuters

Apple fires back in patent war

KUWAIT: EMC Corporation announced yesterday the results of the EMC-sponsored IDC Digital Universe study, “Extracting Value from Chaos”-which found the world’s information is more than doubling every two years-with a colossal 1.8 zettabytes to be created and replicated in 2011, which is growing faster than Moore’s Law. The study’s fifth anniversary, measuring and forecasting the amount of digital information created and copied annually-analyzing the implications for individuals, enterprises, and IT professionals-has huge economical, social and technology implications for big data and other opportunities.

FLORIDA: The space shuttle Atlantis lifts off from the Kennedy Space Center Friday, July 8. Atlantis is the 135th and final space shuttle launch for NASA. — AP

space it can buy. However, in February a fiber optic cable was laid from Venezuela to Cuba and is scheduled to gradually become operational beginning this month, providing download speeds 3,000 times faster than Cuba’s current Internet and capable of handling millions of phone calls simultaneously.

The Cuban state monopolizes communications in the state-controlled economy.

Access to satellite television is also severely restricted. Satellite TV access in Cuba is illegal without special permission from the

The forces behind this relentless growth are driven by technology and money. New “information taming” technologies are driving the cost of creating, capturing, managing and storing information down to one-sixth of what it was in 2005. Additionally, since 2005 annual enterprise investments in the Digital Universe-cloud, hardware, software, services, and staff to create, manage, store and generate revenue from the information-have increased 50% to $4 trillion.

Study Highlights: Massive Server, Data Management and File Growth Not Keeping Pace with Staffing: IDC notes that the skills, experience, and resources to manage the deluge of data and resources simply isn’t keeping pace with all areas of growth. Over the next decade (by 2020), IT departments worldwide will experience: ● 10X the number of servers (virtual and physical). ● 50X the amount of information to be managed.

● 75X the number of files or containers that encapsulate the information in the digital universe,- which is growing even faster than the information itself as more and more embedded systems, such as sensors in clothing, in bridges, or medical devices. ● 1.5X the number of IT professionals available to manage it all. ● Cloud Computing Cost and Operational Efficiency: While cloud computing accounts for less than 2% of IT spending today, IDC estimates that by 2015 nearly 20% of the information will be “touched” by cloud computing service providers - meaning that somewhere in a byte’s journey from originator to disposal it will be stored or processed in a cloud.

Perhaps as much as 10% will be maintained in a cloud.

The Digital Shadow Has a Mind of Its Own: The amount of information individuals create themselves-writing documents, taking pictures, downloading music, etc.-is far less than the amount of information being created about them in the digital universe.

The Liability and Responsibility is with Enterprises: While 75% of the information in the digital universe is generated by individuals, enterprises have some liability for 80% of information in the digital universe at some point in its digital life.

“The chaotic volume of information that continues growing relentlessly presents an endless amount of opportunity-driving transformational societal, technological, scientific, and economic changes,” said Jeremy Burton, Chief Marketing Officer, EMC Corporation. “Big Data is forcing change in the way businesses manage and extract value from their most important asset - information. EMC is at an ideal crossroad to help our customers-from the world’s largest enterprises to governments to small businesses-exploit the hidden value in the digital universe as they continue on their journey to the cloud.”

Other Key Findings New capture, search, discovery, and analysis tools can help organizations gain insights from their unstructured data, which accounts for more than 90% of the digital universe.

These tools can create data about data automatically, much like facial recognition routines that help tag Facebook photos. Data about data, or metadata, is growing twice as fast as the digital universe as a whole.

Business intelligence tools increasingly are dealing with real-time data, whether it’s charging auto insurance premiums based on where people drive, routing power through the intelligent grid, or changing marketing messages on the fly based on social networking responses.

New storage management tools are avail-

able to cut the costs of the part of the digital universe we store, such as de-duplication, auto-tiering and virtualization, as well as to help us decide what exactly to store, as in content management solutions. New security practices and tools can help enterprises identify the information that needs to be secured and at what level of security, and then do so from specific threat protection devices and software to fraud management systems and reputation protection services.Cloud computing solutions - both public and private and a combination of the two known as hybrid provide enterprises with new levels of economies of scale, agility, and flexibility, compared to traditional IT environments.

Long term this will be a key tool for dealing with the complexity of the digital universe.

Cloud computing is enabling the consumption of IT-as-a-Service. Couple that with the Big Data phenomenon, and organizations increasingly will be motivated to consume IT as an external service vs. internal infrastructure investments.

The growth of the digital universe continues to outpace the growth of storage capacity. But keep in mind that a gigabyte of stored content can generate a petabyte or more of transient data that we typically don’t store (e.g., digital TV signals we watch but don’t record, voice calls that are made digital in the network backbone for the duration of a call).

Less than a third of the information in the digital universe can be said to have at least minimal security or protection; only about half the information that should be protected is protected.

Jeremy Burton

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health & science

Smoking bans on the rise but more needed: WHO MONTEVIDEO: Anti-smoking measures have become so widespread that they now affect some 3.8 billion people-just over half the world’s population, the World Health Organization said Thursday. But the WHO called for more action, warning that tobacco use could kill a billion people or more over the course of the 21st century “unless urgent action is taken. “If current trends continue, by 2030 tobacco will kill more than eight million people worldwide each year, with 80 percent of these premature deaths among people living in low- and middle-income countries,” it added.

The WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic was launched in Uruguay as the health body sought to highlight the country’s legislation against smoking that now faces a lawsuit by tobacco giant Philip Morris. “The tobacco epidemic continues to expand

to stop smoking once they start,” said Ala Alwan, WHO assistant director-general for non-communicable diseases and mental health. He noted that tobacco remains the biggest cause of preventable death worldwide, killing nearly six million people and cost-

two years, according to the report. It said graphic ads were more effective than those only containing text, especially in countries with low literacy rates, and recommended that images be changed periodically to ensure they have an impact. The size of

NEW YORK: New Yorkers smoke outside in line with smoking regulations. WHO has said that more bans and regulations are needed. —AP because of ongoing tobacco industry marketing, population growth in countries where tobacco use is increasing, and the extreme addictiveness of tobacco that makes it difficult for people

ing hundreds of billions of dollars in economic damage each year.

Health warnings on cigarette packs protect more than a billion people in 19 countries, almost double the figures over the past

the warning also has an effect, and the WHO noted that Uruguay had the largest images on cigarette packs, covering 80 percent of the sur face, followed by Mexico (65 percent) and Mauritius

(also 65 percent).

In Canada, the first country to introduce large health warnings on cigarette packs in 2001, three out of 10 former smokers said they were motivated to quit by the labels while a quarter said they helped them quit, according to the report. Similar trends were also noted in Australia, Brazil, Singapore and Thailand. Tobacco advertising and sponsorship, a favorite target of critics, saw comprehensive bans passed in Chad, Colombia and Syria between 2008 and 2010. And nearly 28 percent of the world’s population — 1.9 billion people in 23 countries-are now exposed to national antismoking campaigns.

Some 425 million people in 19 countries-six percent of the world’s population-are now “now fully protected against tobacco industry marketing tactics,” 80 million more than in 2008, according to the WHO report.

“The number of people now protected by tobacco control measures is growing at a remarkable pace,” said Alwan. He attributed the progress to the growing impact of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Entered into force in February 2005, the treaty has 168 signatories and 174 parties.

While 101 countries ban tobacco print, television or radio advertising, both direct or indirect, the WHO considers the number to still be insufficient, noting that 74 countries (38 percent) have no or minimal restrictions on advertising. —AFP

News

in brief

Vitamin D may help pancreas function NEW YORK: Vitamin D supplements reduced risk factors for type 2 diabetes by improving the function of insulin-producing cells in pre-diabetic volunteers, a new study has found. “ The results...suggest that vitamin D supplementation may help to improve the main defect in type 2 diabetes,” co-author Dr. Anastassios Pittas, an endocrinologist at Tufts University Medical Center in Boston, told Reuters Health in an email.

Can too little sleep make you gain weight?

NEW YORK: People who got very little sleep ate more but didn’t burn any extra calories in a new study that adds to evidence supporting a link between sleep deprivation and weight gain.

Although the findings don’t prove that sleeplessness causes people to pack on extra pounds, or exactly how the relationship between sleep and body weight might work, they do show that “sleep should be a priority,” said Michael Grandner, who studies sleep and sleep disorders at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

Privately insured heart patients had best outcomes CHICAGO: Patients who had heart valve replacement surgery who were privately insured had better medical outcomes than the uninsured and Medicaid patients undergoing the same procedure, researchers said on Friday. As a result, the type of primary insurance should be considered an independent risk factor as patients and doctors weigh risks for surgery, they concluded.

Lung cancer scans unreliable: Study NEW YORK: CT scans to measure lung tumorscan be unreliable, potentially leading patients and doctors to believe the cancer is growing when it’s not, a new study suggests. In principle, that could mean stopping a treatment that is actually keeping the tumor in check, researchers say. —Reuters

Beijing halts sales of tainted bottled water BEIJING: Authorities in Beijing have halted the sale of 31 brands of bottled water after they failed safety tests, the government repor ted, in the latest such scare to hit China. Random market inspections found bacteria colonies in the water, the Beijing Administration for Industry and Commerce said on its website, citing a joint study with the capital’s product quality bureau.

“In order to prevent these substandard products from entering the distribution chain, the produc t qualit y bureau has taken measures to halt sales,” the administration said in a statement Wednesday. Tests on one brand of bottled water-Yiqun-found that bacteria levels were 9,000 times above safety standards, while those in Tianxing Special Water were 560 times higher, a report in the state-run Beijing Times said. The tests were carried out on large barrels of water and did not include the smaller bottles of water normally bought in supermarkets, the

report said.

Drinking the tainted water could lead to bouts of diarrhea, dizziness and vomiting, it added. Part of the problems stemmed from quality controls at factories, including the failure to clean and sterilize water pipes and replace and disinfect filters, the paper said.

China is regularly hit by food scares. In 2008, authorities found that milk tainted with melamine killed at least six babies and left more than 300,000 sick with kidney stones, in a scandal that caused huge outrage.

Tainted meat, toxic milk, dyed buns, melons laden with chemicals and others have also sur faced in recent months, highlighting a lack of oversight in China’s huge food industry. In May, China’s top court ordered capital punishment for food safety crimes that result in fatalities, as the government metes out harsher penalties amid rising social discontent over tainted foodstuffs. —AFP

Storm damage ruins Danish cancer research

Officials confirm Arizona death tied to E. coli epidemic ATLANTA: US health officials have confirmed that the recent death of an Arizona resident was linked to an E. coli outbreak that has killed more than 40 people in Europe. The Arizona man, who was over age 65 and had recently traveled to Germany, is the first person in the United States to die as a result of the outbreak, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Ketamine abuse may lead to bladder damage, pain NEW YORK: A new study finds that long-term regular use of the club drug ketamine, sometimes called Special K, can alter bladder function, leading to bothersome symptoms such as urgency and pelvic pain. Symptoms may persist for up to a year or more after a person stops using ketamine, according to Dr. Siu-king Mak from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and colleagues. They published their findings in the August issue of the Journal of Urology, available online now.

BEIJING: Chinese soldiers carry water bottles in Beijing. Authorities in Beijing have halted the sale of 31 brands of bottled water after they failed safety tests, the government reported, in the latest such scare to hit China. —AFP

In this file photo, a woman hides her face with her hands. The financial crisis is said to have sparked an increase in suicides across Europe. —AP

Green tea lowers cholesterol risk NEW YORK: Drinking green tea appears to cut “bad” cholesterol while leaving levels of good cholesterol unchanged, and encouraging people to drink more of the beverage could have significant health effects, according to a study. The finding may explain why green tea has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, write Xin-Xin Zheng and colleagues from Peking Union Medical College in Beijing.

While levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol dipped, there was no change in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol. “The analysis... showed that the administration of green tea beverages or extracts resulted in significant reductions in serum total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol concentrations, but no effect on HDL cholesterol was observed,” they wrote in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The research team pooled the results of 14 randomized trials in which participants drank green tea or took an extract for periods ranging from three weeks to three months, or were assigned to a placebo group. On average, green tea reduced total cholesterol by 7.2 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) compared to

levels seen in those taking the placebo.

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol fell by a mean of 2.2 mg/dL, or slightly less than 2 percent.

The cholesterol-lowering effects of green tea may be due to catechins, which decrease the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, the researchers said.

But this reduction is fairly small, warned Nathan Wong, who runs the heart disease prevention program at the University of California, Irvine. Green tea “should not be recommended in place of well-proven cholesterol-lowering medicines for people with high cholesterol,” he told Reuters Health. Some researchers have raised concern over possible side effects from heavy consumption of green tea or green tea extracts. There have been a few dozen reports or liver damage, and green tea may also reduce the effectiveness of some medications.

But Wong said that smaller amounts “could be a useful component of a heart-healthy diet,” with benefits that go beyond its effect on cholesterol.

Green tea has been linked to a lower risk of developing certain forms of cancer as well as reducing the risk of dying from pneumonia. —Reuters

Does Botox help neck pain?

NEW YORK: The ingredient in a Botox injection probably won’t help ease neck pain, nor will it help neck pain sufferers do physical activities any better or improve their quality of life, a new review of past studies suggests. “The

available evidence just suggests that it doesn’t work,” study author Dr. Paul Michael Peloso told Reuters Health. If patients have neck pain, “they and their physicians should be discussing other therapies,” Peloso added. —Reuters

COPENHAGEN: Flooding caused by a storm may have destroyed as many as one million cell specimens, setting back research by at least a year, the Danish Cancer Foundation said Thursday. The specimens were kept in the basement of the foundation’s building, spokesman Kurt Damsgaard told AFP. “This is somewhere between terrible and ver y, ver y serious,” he added. It was still not clear how many specimens had been rendered useless and how many could be saved, he added. But freezers containing upwards of one million cancer cell sample glasses had been immersed in sewage water, thawing out specimens.

“The specimen glasses are sealed, but all of them now have to be thoroughly cleaned before we can gauge exactly how much damage has been done. It is an almost superhuman task,” Damsgaard said. The flooding followed a downpour of 150 millimeters of rain

in Copenhagen Saturday. The waters cut off electrical supplies and covered scores of freezers in the basement of the building with water and caused them to defrost. “We have now moved all of our samples into a large refrigerated container and other freezers in the building,” Damsgaard said, but it would take months to clean and check all the samples.

The Danish Cancer Foundation specimen biobank, which has been collated from hundreds of thousands of cancer patients and others since 1993, is one of the world’s leading sources of material for international cancer research.

“Some of the material that we will have lost can be redeemed from our international partners who have received cells for their own research,” Damsgaard said. “But we will not know exactly how much of our material has been destroyed until we have carefully studied each and every specimen.” —AFP

AIDS patients stopped from visiting activist BEIJING: Police in China detained two AIDS patients earlier this week for trying to visit prominent rights activist Hu Jia, who was released from prison last month, state media said Friday. Zhu Longwei and Sun Ya were stopped outside Hu’s Beijing apar tment on Wednesday by unidentified people and later taken to a police station where they were held for five hours, the Global Times said, citing the two men. “We simply want to express our gratitude to Hu for his great efforts in helping AIDS patients,” Zhu was quoted as saying after he was freed.

Hu, one of China’s leading rights activists and government critics, was released from prison last month after completing a more than threeyear sentence for subversion. The 37-year-old was jailed in April 2008, just months before the Beijing Olympics, after angering the ruling Communist Party through years of bold campaigning for civil rights, the environment and AIDS patients. Hu is not allowed to give media interviews as a condition of his release from prison and he is subject to “supervision”, the government said last month.

Zhu, 48, and Sun, 43, had travelled

to the Chinese capital from the central province of Henan where entire villages were devastated by HIV/AIDS in the 1990s, said the English-language newspaper, aimed at overseas readers. Many people were infected after repeatedly selling their blood to collection stations that pooled it into a tub and then injected it back into them after taking the plasma. In a Twitter posting on Wednesday, Hu’s wife Zeng Jinyan said three AIDS patients, including Zhu and Sun, had tried to visit her husband but were taken away before he could meet with them.

“Hu Jia made them wait in the shade-he wanted to eat food with them. But these three AIDS patients had already been taken away,” Zeng wrote. “They are Zhu Longwei and Sun Ya. The third person-I don’t know his name. I’ve just received news they are safe and sound.” A spokeswoman for the Beijing Public Security Bureau declined to comment when contacted by AFP on Friday. But before hanging up the phone, the spokeswoman was overheard telling someone else she had written a statement about two AIDS patients being detained for trying to visit Hu. —AFP

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‘fatigue risk management’ needed for pilots: FAA WASHINGTON: One in five airline pilots lives at least 750 miles from work, according to a study by scientific advisers to the government, raising concerns that long commutes to airports could lead to fatigue in the cockpit.

The calculations were based on home addresses of more than 25,000 pilots. Six percent of pilots listed a primary residence at least 1,500 miles from the airline base where they begin flights, according to a National Research Council repor t released Wednesday. Although a significant share of pilots list addresses hundreds of miles from their base, it’s not clear that they routinely begin their commutes to work from those addresses, the report said.

The council acknowledged it is difficult to determine the safety risk associated with long commutes without more information about the practices of individual pilots. Pilot unions and airlines have long maintained that

pilots can safely commute long distances to work if they act responsibly.

For example, a pilot might fly across the country to reach his airline’s base but then sleep overnight in a hotel before showing up for work the next day well-rested. “There are lots of stories and anecdotes but no systematic information,” Indiana University professor Clinton Oster Jr., chairman of the panel, told The Associated Press.

Every pilot’s commute is unique, said Jeff Skiles, the first officer of US Airways Flight 1549, which ditched into New York’s Hudson River two years ago after striking geese.

“To have a hard and fast rule that covers everybody is almost impossible.

In some cases it might help, and in some case it might hurt,” Skiles, who testified before the research panel about pilot commuting last fall, said.

Also, some pilots may list a residence in a state with a low tax rate as their primary residence, but they commute from a residence closer to their airline

World Leading Weight Loss Surgeon

base, he said. Congress directed the council to study the issue in response to a regional airline crash that killed 50 people in February 2009 near Buffalo, NY. The flight’s co-pilot had commuted overnight from her home near Seattle to her airline’s base in Newark, NJ, in order to make the flight.

The flight’s captain, who regularly commuted from Florida to Newark, had spent the night before the flight in an airport crew lounge where sleeping was discouraged.

The National Transportation Safety Board concluded the accident was caused by pilot errors. The NTSB said it was also likely both pilots were suffering from fatigue, but the board wasn’t able to determine if fatigue contributed to crash without more information. The decision was a controversial one, with board chairman Deborah Hersman arguing in favor of finding that fatigue was a contributing factor.

The vote was 2-1.

The accident drew attention to the

salaries of regional airline pilots, who say they sometimes need to commute long distances because they can’t afford to live in more expensive communities where they are based. The salary of Rebecca Shaw, the co-pilot in the Buffalo crash, was less than $16,000 in the year before the accident.

“The pilots that can afford it often will fly in earlier and have a cheap crash pad,” said John Goglia, a former NTSB board member and a member of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) fatigue advisory committee. “The pilots for the commuters and other low-paying operations suffer because they can’t afford to do that.” Pilot unions and airlines oppose suggestions that the FAA limit commuting.

The ability to live where they choose and commute to work by air at no cost has long been a cherished pilot prerogative. It’s the pilot’s responsibility to show up for work well-rested, they point out.

“I don’t think there is a ready-made

solution to the commuting problem, but awareness has to be raised,” said Kevin Kuwik, whose girlfriend, Lorin Maurer, 30, was killed in the Buffalo crash. Fatigue has been cited as a cause or a contributing factor in only nine out of 863 aviation accidents the NTSB investigated between 1982 and last year, the report said. Yet the board has said it considers fatigue one of the most serious safety issues facing aviation, as well as other modes of transportation. Last year, the FAA proposed a major overhaul of regulations governing pilot work schedules to reflect the latest scientific understanding of the causes of fatigue and how to prevent it.

The proposed regulations, which are expected to be made final later this year, don’t address commuting.

The study recommends airlines include commuting in their computerized “fatigue risk management” programs, which are designed to prevent flight crew schedules likely to cause fatigue. — AP

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W H AT ’ S O N

The American Academy for Girls (AAG) celebrated the graduation of its 12th grade students, in a ceremony held recently at the Raiya Hotel. The event was attended by Minister of Health Dr. Helal Al-Sayer, as well as the school’s administration and staff and the students’ families.

KIB appoints new Senior Manager

K

Boubyan Bank holds administration meeting

T

he Boubyan Bank’s administration held a special meeting to reward outstanding high school graduates of children of the bank’s staff. The gathering took place at the bank’s head office and supervised by Deputy CEO and Managing Director Adel A-Majid, who personally rewarded ten graduates.

Tamilosai’s exquisite meeting

T

amilosai Poets Association held its 63rd monthly meeting on 1st July 2011 at old Miami Rest, Mirqab, Kuwait. The meeting was presided by TarnilOsai Ravannan. Welcome address was given by Vice Secretary Abu Thakir. Frontage President Sivakumar. Highlight of the meeting was the deducated on title “Karma Veerar Kamaraj” Karuththarangam Presided Engg. Rajasekar Participated by Sathiyan,

Sadiq Batcha,Dr.Kurnar, Engg. Sekar.

As usual Poets and the Singers proved their talent in great extravaganza. Haniff, and Jinna made the family of poets proud by joining as a new members. Tamil Quiz was Won by Sathiyan. Treasurer Azizudeen gave the vote of thanks. The meeting came to an end with delicious Lunch.

Among the Promenent attends of the meeting were Dr.Paul Manuvel, Francis, Jansi Rani, Rathina Kumar,

Gunaseelan, Natarajan, Senthai Ravindar, DeviRavi, Sivamani, Anne Francis, Kavi Sekaran, Anwar Batcha, Ramesh Kumar, Mubarak, Shakin, Gopal, Amutha Gopal, Nithra Gopal, Vittukkatti Mastan, Thalif, Karthik, Raja, Ganesh, Anbalagan, Atlas Ansari, TVS Ala, Babu, Jegan Nathan, Mohamed Akbar, Ravuthar Kani, Samsudeen, Yacoob Ali, Nizam Mohamed, Mathivanan.

uwait International Bank (KIB), the fastest growing Islamic bank in Kuwait, announced that NGR NAIR has joined the bank as Senior Manager to lead the future growth of its retail banking department (RBD).

Mahmoud Abul Eyoun, Chief Executive of KIB said: “We welcome Mr Nair to KIB. Mr Nair is one of the Kuwait banking sector’s best known and mostqualified figures, with an enviable track record of achievement. At KIB we are committed to the growth and development of our business and Mr Nair’s appointment provides further strength to our team.

His experience will assist our strategy to provide products and services which focus closely on our customers’ needs, and create new standards of customer service excellence amongst Islamic banks in Kuwait.”

Mr Nair has extensive banking experience which has been acquired though over 37 years of working in Kuwait in local and international banks, and other financial institutions. He has specialisms in a number of areas, including marketing, research and banking technology, as well as a strong background in RBD services, including developing customer bases, building customer relationships, increasing deposits, Murabaha transactions, and risk management.

After beginning work at Kerala Bank in 1974, Mr Nair chose to move to Kuwait in 1975 to develop his career further. In Kuwait he worked for a number of local and international banks before joining Commercial Bank of Kuwait, where he held senior positions which included Regional Manager and Senior Regional Manager with responsibility for direct sales.

Mr Nair has obtained a large number of excellence and appreciation certificates while working in Kuwait, including commendations from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Public Authority for Industry, the Public Authority for Applied Education & Training, as well as other Kuwaiti national institutions. Mr Nair has M.A in Economics, Diploma in Banking Businesses, from Institute of Banking, UK, as well as higher certificates from a number of academic institutions around the globe.

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W H AT ’ S O N

Embassy Information EMBASSY OF ARGENTINA In order to inform that 23rd of October 2011, will be Argentine national election where all Argentinean citizen residents permanently in Kuwait can vote only if they are registered at the Electoral Register of the Argentine Embassy. The procedure of inscription ended on 25 of April 2011. To register it is necessary that Argentinean citizens should come personally at the Argentinean Embassy (Block 6, street 42, villa 57, Mishref) and present the DNI and four personal photos (size 4x4, face should be front on white background). For further information, contact us on 25379211.

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EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA The Embassy encourages all Australians to register their presence in Kuwait through Smartraveller Online (see link below).

Australians who are registered are asked to update their details. The information provided will assist us in contacting you in an emergency. www.smartraveller.gov.au Kuwait citizens can apply for and receive visit visas to Australia online at www.immi.gov.au.

This usually takes two working days. All others visa applications are handled by the Australian Visa Application Centre Tel. 22971110. Witnessing and certifying documents are by appointment only, please contact the Embassy on 2232 2422. The Australian Embassy is open from 8.00am to 4.00pm, Sunday to Thursday.

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EMBASSY OF BRITAIN The Visa Application Centre (VAC) will be closed on the same dates above. The opening hours of the Visa Application Centre are 0930 - 1630 Application forms remain available online from the UKBAs’ website: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk or from the Visa Application Centre’s website: www.vfs-ukkw.com. And also, from the UK Visa Application Centre located at: 4B, First Floor, Al Banwan Building (Burgan Bank Branch Office Building), Al Qibla area, opposite Central Bank of Kuwait, Kuwait City. For any further inquiries, please contact the Visa Application Centre: Website: www.vfs-uk-kw.com E-mail:info@vfs-uk-kw.com Telephone:22971170. The Consular Section will also be closed on the same dates.

For information on the British Embassy services, visit the British Embassy website: www.ukinkuwait.fco.gov.uk ■■■■■■■

Al-Yarmoukh High School for girls celebrated the graduation of its 12th grade students, class of 2010/2011, in a ceremony held at its campus featuring attendance of the school’s staff led by headmistress Amal Hashim, as well as the students’ families.

Greetings

The Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Hadel Mostafa Paolini hosted a reception at the Embassy on the occasion of Declaration of Independence. A mix of the Venezuelan community in Kuwait attended the reception, which coincided with the First Cultural exhibition.

Happy birthday to you dearest Omar.

May ALLAH give you lots of such joys and happy moments. May you live long and live happy. May worries, negative thoughts, anger and bad luck remain away from you. I wish you good luck and a nice and lovely life to come. Bright and joyful future and all the goods that you can ever wish or think of. I wish, may your dreams come true and that all sad thoughts leave. AMEEN. Wishes from: Mom, Dad, Obaida, Omaira, Ayeda, Sanduni, Ahilan, Ishaan, Imran, Irfan, Dawood, and all your near and dear

EMBASSY OF CANADA The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakel St., Block 4 in Da’aiyah.

Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca.

Canada offers a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that Consular Officials can contact and assist Canadians in an emergency in a foreign country, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform Canadians of a family emergency at home. The Embassy of Canada encourages all Canadian Citizens to register online through the Government of Canada Travel Website at www.voyage.gc.ca. The Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi provides visa and immigration services to residents of Kuwait. Individuals who are interested in visiting, working or immigrating to Canada are invited to visit the website of the Canadian Embassy to the UAE at www.UAE.gc.ca.

Effective January 15, 2011, the only Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) application form that will be accepted by CIC is the Application for Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside of Canada [IMM 5257] form. All previous Temporary Resident Visa application forms will no longer be accepted by CIC and instead will be returned to applicants. Should old applications be submitted prior to January 15, 2011 they will continue to be processed.

To ensure that the most recent version of the Temporary Resident Visa application form is being utilized, applicants should refer to the CIC website.

As of January 15, 2011, forms are to be filled in electronically. The Embassy of Canada is open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday.

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EMBASSY OF GERMANY The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in Kuwait wishes to announce that as of 1 May 2011, the external service provider Al Qabas Assurex is operating a Visa Application Centre in support of the German Embassy. Short-term visa applications for travels to Germany (e.g. for tourism, visits, business) are to be submitted to the service provider Al Qabas who for your convenience will ensure that all relevant documents are included in your application. Your personal appearance at the Application Centre is not required. Address of the Visa Application Centre: Al Qabas Assurex Sanabel Tower (Al-Babtain) Mezzanine (M3) opposite Sharq Mall Kuwait 22924444 Fax: 22924442 Further information are available on the following websites: www.kuwait.diplo.de www.qavisa.com ■■■■■■■

EMBASSY OF INDIA Embassy of India, would like to inform that application forms for passport/visa services and labour contracts that are on its website, www.indembkwt.org, have been upgraded to include the facility for online data entry. Affidavit forms on the Embassy website have had this facility since May 6, 2009.

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EMBASSY OF KENYA

Al Jahra Copthorne Hotel and Resort sponsors award ceremony

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l Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort presented its ballroom as a gift for the honoured Al Jahra Secondary students and their teachers where the honouring ceremony took place, this gift is the least that could be presented to the girls who studied hard and for their outstanding per-

formance and grades, also for the teachers who spent most of their time and utmost effort to educate their students.

General Mohamed Tana Al Enizi the General Manager of The Jahra security awarded the bright students while watching the happiness in the eyes of their parents, the

salayel Ballroom of Al Jahra Copthorne Hotel & Resort witnessed one of the most beautiful moments in anyone’s life which is to be awarded for being spectacular in front of those they love and care about. Who doesn’t like to take part in such moments, moments that resemble true success?

Many, many happy returns of the day to the super duper best wife, super best mummy, super best maa, and super best saasu ma in the world... Wishes from your beloved Mona, Shonu, Maiyu, Husshy, Shan and last but not the least ur jaanu who would love to wish you on this day first, if he was there... Love you loads. May Allah, the almighty bless you with good health and loads of love from your remaining family members

The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya wishes to request all Kenyans resident in or training through Kuwait to register with the Embassy. We are updating our database. This information is necessary in order to facilitate quick assistance and advise in times of emergency. Kindly visit in person or register through our website www.kenyaembkuwait.com. The Embassy is located in: Surra Area - Block 6 - Street 9 Villa 3 Tel: 25353362 - 25353314; Fax: 25353316.

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EMBASSY OF NIGERIA The Nigerian embassy has moved its office to Mishref. Block 3, Street 7, House 4. For enquires please call 25379541. Fax25387719. Email- nigeriakuwait@yahoo.com or nigeriankuwait@yahoo.co.uk

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TV PROGRAMS

00:45 01:40 02:35 03:30 04:25 05:20 06:10 07:00 07:25 07:50 08:15 08:40 09:10 10:05 11:00 11:55 12:20 12:50 Coast 13:45 14:40 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:25 18:20 18:45 19:15 20:10 21:05 22:00 22:55 23:50

Dogs 101 Untamed & Uncut Into the Pride Planet Earth Whale Wars Animal Cops South Africa Dogs 101 Lemur Street The Really Wild Show Farm Life Farm Life Breed All About It Dogs vs. Cats Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip Lemur Street Wildlife SOS International Animal Park: Wild on the West Animal Cops Houston Animal Precinct RSPCA: On the Frontline The Really Wild Show Jeff Corwin Unleashed Natural Born Hunters Cats 101 Breed All About It Planet Wild Crocodile Hunter Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 Queens of the Savannah Speed of Life I’m Alive The Animals’ Guide to Survival

00:25 00:55 01:40 02:30 03:15 04:00 04:30 04:50 05:10 05:40 05:50 06:10 06:30 07:00 07:20 07:40 08:10 08:20 08:40 09:00 09:30 09:40 10:10 10:40 11:25 12:20 12:50 13:20 14:10 15:45 16:35 17:20 17:50 18:20 19:10 20:00 20:45 21:15 21:45 22:40 23:30

One Foot In The Grave The Weakest Link Ray Mears Goes Walkabout The Weakest Link The Fixer Dinnerladies Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Charlie And Lola Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Charlie And Lola Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Charlie And Lola Dinnerladies Dinnerladies The Weakest Link Monarch Of The Glen Doctors One Foot In The Grave Ray Mears Goes Walkabout Dinnerladies Monarch Of The Glen The Weakest Link Doctors One Foot In The Grave Ray Mears Goes Walkabout Monarch Of The Glen The Weakest Link Doctors Eastenders Holby City The Fixer Live At The Apollo

00:05 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 01:20 Masterchef: The Professionals 02:50 New Scandinavian Cooking With Andreas Viestad 03:40 Design Star 05:10 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 08:20 Antiques Roadshow 09:10 Come Dine With Me 11:15 New Scandinavian Cooking 12:05 Antiques Roadshow 12:55 Cash In The Attic 13:40 Bargain Hunt 14:25 Come Dine With Me

15:15 17:20 18:10 19:00 19:50 20:35 21:20 22:10 23:00

00:40 07:00 07:50 08:45 09:10 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:25 12:20 13:15 14:10 15:05 16:00 16:55 17:50 18:45 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:35 21:00 21:55 22:50 23:45

Come Dine With Me Indian Food Made Easy New Scandinavian Cooking Antiques Roadshow Cash In The Attic Bargain Hunt Come Dine With Me Fantasy Homes By The Sea Come Dine With Me

Aircrash Confidential Battle Machine Bros Street Customs 2008 How It’s Made Mythbusters Cake Boss Border Security Auction Hunters Huge Moves Mighty Ships Ultimate Survival LA Ink Dirty Jobs Heartland Thunder Mythbusters Dual Survival Cake Boss Border Security Auction Hunters How Stuff Works How It’s Made Flying Wild Alaska Swamp Brothers Swords: Life On The Line Dual Survival

00:05 The Gadget Show 00:30 Prototype This 01:20 The Colony 02:10 Ultimate Power Builders 03:00 Science Of The Movies 03:50 Weird Or What?

04:45 Nyc: Inside Out 05:40 How Stuff’s Made 06:10 Sci-Fi Science 06:35 Sci-Fi Science 07:00 Da Vinci’s Machines 07:55 Mission Critical: Hubble 08:50 The Gadget Show 09:15 The Gadget Show 09:40 Ecopolis 14:55 Building The Future 15:45 Weird Connections 16:10 Brainiac 17:00 Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman 17:50 Sci-Fi Science 18:15 The Gadget Show 18:40 Things That Move 19:30 Nyc: Inside Out 20:20 Punkin Chunkin 2010 21:10 The Gadget Show 22:00 Things That Move 22:50 Nyc: Inside Out 23:40 The Gadget Show

00:20 00:45 01:10 02:20 02:45 03:10 03:35 04:25 05:15 06:00 06:20 07:05 07:55 08:20 08:35 09:00 09:10 09:25 09:40 09:50 10:10 10:35 10:50

Replacements Replacements Fairly Odd Parents A Kind Of Magic Stitch Stitch Kim Possible Emperors New School Stitch Emperors New School Phineas & Ferb Suite Life On Deck Good Luck Charlie Fish Hooks Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Jake & The Neverland Pirates Jungle Junction Handy Manny Jake & The Neverland Pirates Sonny With A Chance Fish Hooks Phineas And Ferb Shake It Up

11:15 11:35 12:00 12:25 12:45 13:10 13:30 15:20 15:45 16:10 16:35 17:00 17:25 17:50 18:15 18:45 19:10 19:35 20:00 20:25 20:50 21:15 21:35 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15 23:35

Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Hannah Montana Harriet The Spy: Blog Wars The Suite Life Of Zack & Cody Fish Hooks Shake It Up Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Fish Hooks Suite Life On Deck Shake It Up Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Wizards Of Waverly Place Jake & Blake Hannah Montana Phineas & Ferb Good Luck Charlie Shake It Up Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Yr 2 Wizards Of Waverly Place Jonas

00:05 00:30 00:55 01:20 01:45 02:10 02:35 03:00 03:25 03:50 04:15 04:40 05:05 05:30 05:50 06:35 Basics 07:00 07:50 08:15 08:40 09:05 09:30 09:55 Basics 10:20 10:45 11:10 11:35 12:25 12:50 13:15 13:40 14:30 14:55 15:20 15:45 16:35 17:00 Basics 17:25 17:50 18:15 19:05 19:30 20:20 21:10 21:35 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15 23:40

Unwrapped Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Unwrapped Unwrapped Lidia’s Italy Lidia’s Italy Barefoot Contessa Barefoot Contessa Guy’s Big Bite Guy’s Big Bite Good Eats - Special Unwrapped Ten Dollar Dinners Paula’s Best Dishes Paula’s Party Barefoot Contessa - Back To

01:00 03:00 03:30 04:00 04:30 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30

Women’s Professional Soccer This Week In Baseball Softball 360 Beach Sports Champions Tour Big Break Indian Wells Top 10 School Of Golf Golf Central International Road Trip

Chopped Guy’s Big Bite Everyday Italian Good Deal With Dave Lieberman Ten Dollar Dinners Paula’s Best Dishes Barefoot Contessa - Back To Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Lidia’s Italy Unwrapped Paula’s Party Everyday Italian Paula’s Best Dishes Good Deal With Dave Lieberman Ultimate Recipe Showdown Lidia’s Italy Unwrapped Boy Meets Grill Chopped Guy’s Big Bite Barefoot Contessa - Back To Lidia’s Italy Everyday Italian Paula’s Party Good Eats - Special Food Network Challenge Paula’s Party Everyday Italian Everyday Italian Lidia’s Italy Lidia’s Italy Boy Meets Grill Boy Meets Grill Good Eats - Special

10:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 22:00 23:00 23:30

PGA Tour ATP Tour ATP Tour Champions Tour Major League Soccer America’s Game Super Bowl Highlights Super Bowl Highlights

00:30 01:20 02:10 03:00 03:50 04:45 05:15 06:10 07:00 07:50 08:40 09:05 09:30 10:20 11:10 12:00 12:50 13:40 14:30 14:55 15:20 16:10 17:00 17:50 18:40 19:05 19:55 20:20 21:10

Nightmare Next Door Deadly Women I Almost Got Away With It True Crime With Aphrodite Jones The Will: Family Secrets Revealed Ghosthunters Murder Shift Life Or Death: Medical Mysteries Murder Shift Forensic Detectives Street Patrol Real Emergency Calls Mystery Diagnosis The Will: Family Secrets Revealed FBI Files True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Disappeared Mystery Diagnosis Street Patrol Real Emergency Calls The Will: Family Secrets Revealed FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Real Emergency Calls Mystery Diagnosis Street Patrol True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Disappeared

00:05 01:55 03:40 05:20 07:15 08:45 10:30 12:00 13:40 15:15 16:40 18:25 20:05 22:00 23:45

Kings Of The Sun-PG The Mean Season-PG The Coca Cola Kid-PG Lifeforce Till The End Of The Night-PG Hannah And Her Sisters-PG Seven Hours To Judgement-PG Article 99-PG The Aviator-PG Haunted Honeymoon-PG Memories Of Me-PG Escape Clause-PG Play Dirty-PG Kiss The Sky Mgm’s Big Screen-FAM

00:00 Shadow Hunters 01:00 Wild Amazon 01:55 The Last Lioness 02:50 Monster Fish 03:45 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 04:40 Zambezi 05:35 Zambezi 06:30 Cheetah Blood Brothers 07:25 World’s Weirdest 08:20 Built For The Kill 09:15 The Last Lioness 10:10 Monster Fish 11:05 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 12:00 Kangaroo Kaos 13:00 Crocodile King 14:00 World’s Weirdest 15:00 Built For The Kill 16:00 Intimate Enemies 17:00 Monster Fish 18:00 Dangerous Encounters With Brady Barr 19:00 Crocodile King 20:00 World’s Weirdest 21:00 Built For The Kill

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00

Brotherhood-PG15 Don’t Look Up-18 From Paris With Love-18 12 Rounds-PG15

08:00 10:00 12:15 14:00 16:00 18:30 20:15 22:00

The Truth About Charlie-PG15 King Arthur-PG15 The Bodyguard 2-PG15 The Truth About Charlie-PG15 Independence Day-PG15 The Bodyguard 2-PG15 Echelon Conspiracy-PG15 Ninja Assassin-18

01:30 03:30 05:15 07:30 09:15 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:15 19:00 21:00 23:00

Little Ashes-R Beneath The Blue-PG15 Sherlock Holmes-PG15 Harold-PG15 Batman: Under The Red Hood-P The Cake Eaters-PG15 All About Steve-PG15 The Great Debaters-PG15 Mee Shee-PG The Last Song-PG15 Clash Of The Titans-PG15 Hot Tub Time Machine-PG15

00:00 Curb Your Enthusiasm 00:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 01:00 The Colbert Report 01:30 Funny Or Die Presents 02:00 Neighbors From Hell 02:30 That Mitchell And Webb Look 03:00 Malcolm In The Middle 03:30 Hope And Faith 04:00 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 05:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 06:00 According To Jim 06:30 Coach 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 08:00 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 08:30 Malcolm In The Middle 09:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 09:30 Sons Of Tucson 10:00 Seinfeld 10:30 According To Jim 11:00 Coach 11:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 12:30 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 13:00 Hope And Faith 13:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 14:00 According To Jim 14:30 Sons Of Tucson 15:00 Two And A Half Men 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 Coach 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 18:00 Malcolm In The Middle 18:30 Hope And Faith 19:00 Seinfeld 19:30 Sons Of Tucson 20:00 The League 20:30 It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia 21:00 The Daily Show Global Edition 21:30 The Colbert Report Global Edition 22:00 Comedy Central Presents 22:30 Comedy Central Presents 23:00 Funny Or Die Presents 23:30 The League

00:00 Law And Order 01:00 Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior 02:00 Grey’s Anatomy 03:00 Law And Order: Los Angeles 04:00 The View 05:00 Century City 06:00 Good Morning America 07:00 Glee 08:00 Emmerdale 08:30 Coronation Street 09:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 10:00 The Martha Stewart Show 11:00 The View 12:00 Law And Order 13:00 Law And Order: Los Angeles 14:00 Live Good Morning America 16:00 Grey’s Anatomy 17:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 18:00 Emmerdale 18:30 Coronation Street 19:00 Cold Case 20:00 The Closer 21:00 In Treatment 21:30 In Treatment 22:00 Grey’s Anatomy 23:00 Glee

01:00 Bugsy-18 03:15 Green Street 2: Stand Your Ground-18 05:00 Bad Guys-18 06:45 The Manchurian Candidate-18 09:00 No Escape-PG15 11:00 Phone Booth-PG15 13:00 Darkness Falls-PG15 15:00 No Escape-PG15 17:00 Signs-PG15 19:00 Blood: The Last Vampire-18 21:00 From Hell-18 23:00 The Butterfly Effect 3: Revelations-18

00:30 A Low Down Dirty Shame-PG15 02:30 The Last Supper-PG15 04:30 Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs-PG 06:00 Checking Out-PG15 08:00 The Prince And Me 3: A Royal Honeymoon-PG15 10:00 Mafia!-PG15 12:00 Who’s Your Caddy?-PG15 14:00 Chasing Papi-PG 16:00 A Low Down Dirty Shame-PG15 18:00 Ace Ventura : Pet Detective Jr.PG15 20:00 Without A Paddle: Nature’s Calling-PG15 22:00 The Big Lebowski-18

From Paris With Love on OSN Action HD

T

his action film, directed by Pierre Morel (Taken), concerns young CIA agent James Reece (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers) who has a cushy day job but dreams of an exciting life in the field. When the agency offers him his first big-time assignment, James must team with crazed lone wolf Charlie Wax (John

Travolta) to stop a terrorist bombing plot. Although James is initially in way over his head, he soon realizes that he needs to trust Charlie if he wants to live his dream and save his own life, because the bad guys not only want to cause damage to the city, but want James killed.

02:15 Limousine-PG15 04:00 The Public Eye-U 05:45 Five Minutes Of Heaven-PG15 07:15 Little Nicholas-PG 09:00 In God’s Hands-PG 10:45 By The People: The Election Of Barack Obama-PG15 12:45 Capitalism: A Love Story-PG15 15:00 Che Part One: The ArgentinePG15 17:15 Everybody’s Fine-PG15 19:00 Julie And Julia-PG15 21:00 Le Dernier Pour LA Route-PG15 23:00 I Love Your Work-18

CASE 39 ON OSN MOVIES HD

01:00 Quills-18 03:15 Adventures Of A Teenage Dragonslayer-PG 05:00 Good Hair-PG15 07:00 Moon-PG15 09:00 Saved!-PG15 11:00 Gasland-PG15 13:00 The Soloist-PG15 15:00 A Christmas Carol-PG 17:00 Saved!-PG15 19:00 The Losers-PG15 21:00 Case 39-18 23:00 Green Zone-PG15

00:00 The Country Bears-PG15 02:00 Time Kid-FAM 04:00 Groove Squad-FAM 06:00 Last Of The Mohicans-PG 08:00 Tutenstein: Clash Of The Pharaohs-PG 10:00 The Country Bears-PG15 12:00 The Nutty Professor-FAM 14:00 Christopher Columbus-PG 16:00 Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard-PG 18:00 The Nutty Professor-FAM 20:00 Homeward Bound II: Lost In San Francisco-FAM 22:00 Christopher Columbus-PG

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 11:30 14:00 16:00 17:30 20:00 22:00

Soulboy-PG15 Freestyle-PG15 Last Chance Harvey-PG15 Flicka 2-PG15 Make It Happen-PG15 National Security-PG15 Iron Man 2-PG15 Carnera: The Walking Mountain Make It Happen-PG15 Glorious 39-PG15 Cop Out-PG15 Legion-18

00:15 02:15 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00 10:30 11:30 12:00 14:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 Film 23:00

NRL Premiership Speedway WWE Bottom Line WWE NXT Super League WWE Bottom Line Super Rugby Trans World Sport NRL Full Time Live NRL Premiership WWE Bottom Line WWE SmackDown NRL Premiership Speedway Super Rugby Highlights UFC The Ultimate Fighter The Open Championship Official

01:45 03:30 06:30 07:00 11:30 12:00 14:00 15:00 18:00 20:00 21:00

Super League Masters Football ICC Cricket World European PGA Tour NRL Full Time Live NRL Premiership Trans World Sport Masters Football Super League Super Rugby Highlights Snooker

01:30 03:30 05:30 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 12:30 13:30 14:00

NRL Premiership NRL Premiership Mobil 1 The Grid Asian Tour Golf Spirit of Yachting Golfing World Trans World Sport Golfing World Futbol Mundial Mobil 1 The Grid

NRL Premiership

14:30 15:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 21:00 21:30 22:00

00:00 01:00 03:00 04:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 19:30 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

ICC Criket World Live Snooker Futbol Mundial AFL Highlights PGA European Tour Highlights ICC Criket World Mobil 1 The Grid Masters Football

UFC The Ultimate Fighter V8 Supercars Championship WWE Bottom Line WWE NXT UFC Unleashed WWE Bottom Line V8 Supercars Championship Powerboats Powerboats WWE Vintage Collection V8 Supercars Championship WWE SmackDown WWE Vintage Collection Powerboats Powerboats Powerboats Speedway UFC The Ultimate Fighter UFC Unleashed UFC Unleashed

00:00 Mummy Forensics 01:00 Ax Men 02:00 IRT: Deadliest Roads 03:00 Desperate Crossing: The Mayflower 04:00 America: The Story Of The Us 05:00 America: The Story Of The Us 06:00 Mummy Forensics 07:00 Ax Men 08:00 IRT: Deadliest Roads 09:00 Desperate Crossing: The Mayflower 10:00 America: The Story Of The Us 11:00 America: The Story Of The Us 12:00 Mummy Forensics 13:00 Ax Men 14:00 IRT: Deadliest Roads 15:00 Desperate Crossing: The Mayflower 16:00 America: The Story Of The Us 17:00 America: The Story Of The Us 18:00 Mummy Forensics 19:00 Ax Men 20:00 IRT: Deadliest Roads 21:00 IRT: Deadliest Roads 21:55 Mega Movers 23:00 Man Moment Machine

00:00 Top 10 00:30 Top 10 01:00 Fashion Avenue 01:30 Fashion Avenue 01:55 Big Boutique 02:25 How Do I Look?

03:20 Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

04:15 Married Away 05:10 Homes With Style 05:35 Area 06:05 Clean House 07:00 Big Boutique 07:30 Big Boutique 08:00 Homes With Style 08:30 Homes With Style 09:00 Fashion Avenue 09:25 Fashion Avenue 09:55 How Do I Look?

10:50 Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

11:50 Clean House: Search For The Messiest...

12:50 Clean House 13:45 Top 10 14:15 Mel B: It’s A Scary World 14:45 Jerseylicious 15:40 Ruby 16:35 Giuliana And Bill 17:00 Giuliana And Bill 17:30 How Do I Look?

18:25 Ruby 19:25 Big Boutique

19:50 20:20 21:15 21:40 22:10 23:05

Fashion Avenue Clean House Top 10 Top 10 Ruby Bridalplasty

00:00 Chef Abroad 00:30 Glutton For Punishment 01:00 Planet Food 02:00 Distant Shores 02:30 Travel Today 03:00 Planet Sports 04:00 Globe Trekker 05:00 Globe Trekker 06:00 Globe Trekker 07:00 Globe Trekker 08:00 Intrepid Journeys 09:00 Planet Sports 10:00 Africa Trek 10:30 Four Men And A Lady 11:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 12:00 Globe Trekker 13:00 Planet Food 14:00 Nomad’s Land 15:00 Essential Specials 16:00 Globe Trekker 17:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 18:00 Planet Food 19:00 Globe Trekker 20:00 Great Scenic Railways-Us And Canada

00:05 00:15 00:40 00:55 01:10 01:30 01:45 02:00 02:15 02:25 02:50 03:05 03:20 03:40 03:55 04:10 04:25 04:35 05:00 05:15 05:30 05:50 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:45 07:00 07:15 07:30 07:45 08:10 08:20 08:30 08:45 08:55 09:02 09:10 09:25 09:50 10:15 10:40 11:05 11:20 11:45 12:00 12:25 12:40 13:05 13:15 13:25 13:50 14:15 14:40 15:05 15:20 15:30 15:40 15:55 16:20

Jungle Junction Little Einsteins Higglytown Heroes Higglytown Heroes Jo Jo’s Circus Special Agent Oso Special Agent Oso Jungle Junction Jungle Junction Little Einsteins Higglytown Heroes Higglytown Heroes Jo Jo’s Circus Special Agent Oso Special Agent Oso Jungle Junction Jungle Junction Little Einsteins Higglytown Heroes Higglytown Heroes Jo Jo’s Circus Jungle Junction Jungle Junction Higglytown Heroes Higglytown Heroes Handy Manny Special Agent Oso Jungle Junction Jungle Junction Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Timmy Time Handy Manny Jake & The Neverland Pirates Jake & The Neverland Pirates The Hive The Hive Handy Manny Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Mickey Mouse Clubhouse The Little Mermaid Little Einsteins Jungle Junction Imagination Movers Handy Manny Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Jake & The Neverland Pirates The Little Mermaid The Hive Special Agent Oso Little Einsteins The Little Mermaid Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Handy Manny Handy Manny The Hive Jake & The Neverland Pirates Imagination Movers Lazytown

Classifieds MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

ACCOMMODATION Sharing accommodation available in Hawally, Fourth Ring Road, for Pilipino couple, opposite Royal Hayath Hospital, Jabriya. Contact: 66189873. (C 3511) 11-7-2011 Sharing accommodation available in Abbasiya, furnished 2 bedroom flat, from September 1. Rent KD 35.

One vacancy. Contact: 99162583. (C 3507) 10-7-2011 Sharing accommodation available for bachelor or couple in Abbassiya near Holy Sweets Restaurant.

Contact: 65129145.

(C 3499) 6-7-2011

FOR SALE

© 2011 011 MCT Source: World ld Book Graphic: Paul Trap T

Toyota Corolla model 2009, white color, 1.8 engine,

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1

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3

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Gravity pulled both pieces downward, but different things happened The ball had only a small surface area for the water to push against, and it sank The bowl had a much larger area pressing against the water

3LHFH RI modeling clay clay

The water pushed back strongly enough to counteract the downward force of gravity

4

Gently put each piece onto the surface of the water

PC Compaq Pentium4, Ram 256, HD 40GB, DVD+CD Writer, Windows XP Professional with 15” LCD screen Lenovo, in excellent condition, price KD 45.

Contact: 99322585/ 9337034. (C 3503) 7-7-2011 Sharing accommodation

What W hat happened? happened?

Downward w pull of gravity

2

excellent condition, cash price KD 3,250/(Installment possible).

Contact: 66396517. (C 3502)

A stone thrown in the water acts like your ball A big ship acts like your clay bowl, and it floats

SITUATION VACANT Required house maid for an Indian family in Farwaniya (live in or part time) (Indian, Sri Lankan preferred) salary KD 100/-.

Contact: 97220933.

(C 3510) 10-7-2011 Required a foreign Maths lady teacher to teach grade 4 Maths. Please Contact: 99011855. (C 3504) A family is seeking to hire a houseboy who is fluent in English and is Christian.

Contact: 99199020.

(C 3506) 9-7-2011

SITUATION WANTED A well qualified Nigerian lady, office administrator inter personal skills with several years of experience in Kuwait, visa transferable, seeks suitable placement.

Please contact: 94979702.

Email: hettycharls@yahoo.com (C 3511) A well qualified female executive secretary with several years of experience in Kuwait with US company, Visa transferable, seeks suitable placement. Please Contact: 99907403. Email: david_angel2003@yahoo.com (C 3512) 11-7-2011 Accountant - B.Com Graduate passed in First Class knowing Peachtree and Tally accounting having 2 year experience in India and currently working in Kuwait. Seeking suitable job as Accountant. Contact: 65179245. (C 3508) 10-7-2011 Instrumentation and Control Engineer, Indian, 7 months experience in calibration. Looking for a suitable position, can join immediately, on visit visa.

Contact: 96679478. Email:

sanju_3n3@yahoo.com (C 3496) Sri Lankan lady looking for a housekeeping job (American or European only). Contact: 55680045.

(C 3505)

MATRIMONIAL We are inviting marriage proposals from Pakistani families for our MSc daughter from Mughal family.

Contact Email: wasimughal2003@yahoo.com (C 3495) 4-7-2011 Proposal invited for Marthoma male, 29 years, company foreman. Invite proposal from MOH staff in Kuwait. Email: vijige orge83@yahoo.com / vijigeorge83@gmail.com (C 3489) 2-7-2011

CHANGE OF NAME I, Luis Anthony D’cunha, aged 36, holder of Indian Passport no. F 8706443 residing in Kuwait hereby change my name to Luis D’cunha. (C 3501) 6-7-2011

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION In case you are not travelling, your proper cancellation of bookings will help other passengers to use seats Airlines

Flt

RJA JZR KAC THY ETH UAE DHX ETD MSR FDB GFA QTR KAC JZR FAH JZR KAC JZR BAW JZR KAC KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC KAC UAE QTR BBC ABY ETD GFA SHY MEA JZR JZR IRC MSR RBG KAC KAC MSR SYR UAL RJA FDB

642 205 1502 772 620 853 370 305 614 67 211 138 544 503 201 555 412 531 157 1541 206 302 53 352 284 344 362 855 132 45 125 301 213 1125 404 165 121 6521 623 3557 618 672 610 341 982 640 57

Arrival Flights on Monday 11/7/2011 Route AMMAN DAMASCUS BEIRUT ISTANBUL ADDIS ABABA DUBAI BAHRAIN ABU DHABI CAIRO DUBAI BAHRAIN DOHA CAIRO LUXOR DUBAI ALEXANDRIA MANILA / BANGKOK ASSIUT LONDON CAIRO ISLAMABAD MUMBAI DUBAI COCHIN DHAKA CHENNAI COLOMBO DUBAI DOHA DHAKA SHARJAH ABU DHABI BAHRAIN ANTALYA BEIRUT DUBAI BAHRAIN LAMERD SOHAG ALEXANDRIA DOHA DUBAI CAIRO DAMASCUS WASHINGTON DC DULLES AMMAN DUBAI

Time 0:05 0:25 1:15 1:15 1:45 2:25 2:55 2:55 3:05 3:10 3:15 3:20 4:40 5:15 5:25 6:10 6:15 6:20 6:30 7:10 7:15 7:50 7:55 8:05 8:10 8:20 8:20 8:25 9:00 9:00 9:10 9:30 9:35 10:45 10:55 11:10 11:15 11:20 12:10 12:55 12:55 13:15 13:20 13:25 13:30 13:35 13:50

OMA QTR SVA KNE KAC JZR QTR KAC KAC JZR KAC MLR ETD UAE KAC GFA SVA JZR JZR ABY JZR ALK KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC AIC JAI FDB OMA JZR VOS MEA DHX KLM UAE GFA QTR UAL JZR TAR JZR MSR DLH JZR BBC PIA

645 140 500 745 788 257 134 546 550 535 118 403 303 857 154 215 510 777 239 127 213 227 104 542 786 744 614 774 674 575 572 61 647 179 81 402 372 445 859 217 136 981 135 327 185 612 636 539 43 239

MUSCAT DOHA JEDDAH JEDDAH JEDDAH BEIRUT DOHA ALEXANDRIA SOHAG CAIRO NEW YORK COLOMBO / DUBAI ABU DHABI DUBAI ISTANBUL BAHRAIN RIYADH JEDDAH AMMAN SHARJAH DEIREZZOR COLOMBO / DUBAI LONDON CAIRO JEDDAH DAMMAM BAHRAIN RIYADH DUBAI CHENNAI / GOA MUMBAI DUBAI MUSCAT DUBAI BAGHDAD BEIRUT BAHRAIN AMSTERDAM DUBAI BAHRAIN DOHA BAHRAIN BAHRAIN TUNIS DUBAI CAIRO FRANKFURT CAIRO DHAKA SIALKOT

14:00 14:15 14:30 14:45 15:00 15:10 15:15 15:30 15:35 15:50 16:15 16:40 16:50 16:55 17:00 17:15 17:20 17:25 17:35 17:40 17:50 18:00 18:35 18:50 19:00 19:15 19:20 19:25 19:25 19:30 19:35 20:00 20:10 20:10 20:15 20:15 21:00 21:05 21:15 21:25 21:35 22:00 22:10 22:15 22:35 22:50 23:00 23:30 23:45 23:55

Airlines JZR AXB DLH KLM BBC AIC PIA AFG THY ETH UAE FDB DHX ETD MSR QTR JZR RJA GFA JZR BAW KAC FDB JZR KAC KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC UAE ABY QTR ETD BBC GFA SHY KAC MEA KAC JZR JZR JZR IRC KAC MSR KAC RBG

Departure Flights on Monday 11/7/2011 Flt Route 1540 CAIRO 390 MANGALORE / KOZHIKODE 637 FRANKFURT 447 AMSTERDAM 46 DHAKA 982 AHMEDABAD / CHENNAI 206 PESHAWER / LAHORE 406 DUBAI / KABUL 773 ISTANBUL 620 BAHRAIN / ADDIS ABABA 854 DUBAI 68 DUBAI 371 BAHRAIN 306 ABU DHABI 615 CAIRO 139 DOHA 164 DUBAI 643 AMMAN 212 BAHRAIN 120 BAHRAIN 156 LONDON 545 ALEXANDRIA 54 DUBAI 534 CAIRO 153 ISTANBUL 671 DUBAI 256 BEIRUT 787 JEDDAH 549 SOHAG 617 DOHA 856 DUBAI 126 SHARJAH 133 DOHA 302 ABU DHABI 46 DHAKA 214 BAHRAIN 1126 ANTALYA 165 ROME / PARIS 405 BEIRUT 541 CAIRO 776 JEDDAH 212 DEIREZZOR 238 AMMAN 6522 LAMERD 103 LONDON 624 SOHAG 785 JEDDAH 3558 SOHAG / ALEXANDRIA

Time 0:20 0:25 0:40 0:55 1:00 1:05 1:10 2:00 2:15 2:30 3:45 3:50 3:55 4:05 4:05 5:00 6:55 7:00 7:10 8:20 8:25 8:35 8:40 8:50 8:55 9:00 9:10 9:15 9:20 9:35 9:40 9:50 10:00 10:15 10:15 10:20 11:45 11:45 11:55 12:00 12:00 12:05 12:10 12:20 12:30 13:10 13:30 13:35

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

MSR SYR RJA FDB UAL OMA KAC KNE SVA JZR KAC QTR KAC KAC JZR VOS ETD MLR QTR UAE GFA ABY JZR JZR SVA ALK JZR KAC JAI FDB JZR JZR KAC KAC OMA MEA KAC DHX KLM UAE GFA FAH QTR KAC KAC TAR JZR JZR KAC UAL MSR

611 342 641 58 982 646 673 746 501 178 773 141 613 743 538 82 304 404 135 858 216 128 184 266 511 228 134 283 571 62 528 268 331 351 648 403 543 373 445 860 218 102 137 301 205 327 554 504 411 981 613

CAIRO DAMASCUS AMMAN DUBAI BAHRAIN MUSCAT DUBAI JEDDAH JEDDAH DUBAI RIYADH DOHA BAHRAIN DAMMAM CAIRO BAGHDAD ABU DHABI DUBAI / COLOMBO DOHA DUBAI BAHRAIN SHARJAH DUBAI BEIRUT RIYADH DUBAI / COLOMBO BAHRAIN DHAKA MUMBAI DUBAI ASSIUT BEIRUT TRIVANDRUM COCHIN MUSCAT BEIRUT CAIRO BAHRAIN BAHRAIN / AMSTERDAM DUBAI BAHRAIN BAHRAIN DOHA MUMBAI ISLAMABAD DUBAI / TUNIS ALEXANDRIA LUXOR BANGKOK / MANILA WASHINGTON DC DULLES CAIRO

14:20 14:25 14:30 14:35 14:45 15:00 15:10 15:30 15:45 16:00 16:05 16:15 16:20 16:25 16:40 17:00 17:35 17:40 17:45 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:25 18:30 18:35 19:10 19:10 20:00 20:35 20:40 20:50 21:00 21:00 21:05 21:10 21:15 21:55 22:00 22:05 22:25 22:30 22:30 22:35 22:45 22:55 23:05 23:10 23:35 23:40 23:40 23:50

34

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

s ta rs CROSSWORD 375

STAR TRACK

CALVIN & HOBBES

Aries (March 21-April 19) You could be most persuasive with others in most any situation.

The condition is a natural for self-expression and lends itself to your particular ideas and thoughts. Close personal ties to other people are a focal point for your feelings—marriage and other partnerships could be a key arena for this. You may be able to enjoy and value your own life situation today. You may discover something new about love or may adopt a different and unconventional value system for a time.

Harmony and beauty are deeply satisfying—and the lack of them can be emotionally unsettling. A visitor in your home today may compliment you on your tastes. You may find this visitor quite delightful. This visitor may even have a remedy to some quandary you have been having.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) A round-table discussion may ensue after a family breakfast this morning. New plans are in the works for several short trips. Indepth discussions find you at your mental best. This may be a good time for your imagination to kick in when it comes to ideas and thinking. You find it easy to be compassionate and others can see that you care. You also understand and have a natural appreciation for your elders, whom you will take great care to include into your plans now. Helping them with a few chores takes little of your time. The arts, philosophy and great ideas in general are what you enjoy now. Future-oriented, you have a sense of your own destiny and you look forward to seeing your ambitions realized. Romance is indicated tonight.

POOCH CAFE ACROSS 1. A state of confusion and disorderliness.

5. A coffee cake flavored with orange rind and raisins and almonds.

10. A cry or noise made to express displeasure or contempt.

13. Type genus of the family Arcidae.

14. Extensive landed property (especially in the country) retained by the owner for his own use.

15. Someone who engages in arbitrage (who purchases securities in one market for immediate resale in another in the hope of profiting from the price differential).

16. Living quarters at a college or university where students live.

17. According to the Old Testament he was a pagan king of Israel and husband of Jezebel (9th century BC).

19. (Babylonian) A demigod or first man.

21. Any of various spiny trees or shrubs of the genus Acacia.

22. Large Old World bat of warm and tropical regions that feeds on fruit.

24. Imprudently incurring risk.

25. Type genus of the Nepidae.

26. A Mid-Atlantic state.

27. (computer science) A computer that is running software that allows users to leave messages and access information of general interest.

30. An official prosecutor for a judicial district.

35. Any of a number of fishes of the family Carangidae.

37. Give over.

41. Being one more than fifty.

42. Precipitation of ice pellets when there are strong rising air currents.

43. Wild sheep of northern Africa.

44. The sixth month of the civil year.

46. A genus of evergreen climbers.

48. Sole genus of the family Naiadaceae.

50. An enclosed space.

53. A state in southeastern United States.

54. Very small northern fish.

58. (informal) Of the highest quality.

60. An island of eastern Greece in the eastern Aegean Sea. 61. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

62. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric.

63. A fine coating of oxide on the surface of a metal.

64. A compartment in front of a motor vehicle where driver sits.

DOWN 1. A woman of refinement.

2. Become ground down or deteriorate.

3. Lean end of the neck.

4. An Asian skiff usually propelled by two oars.

5. The cry made by sheep.

6. Common house and field crickets.

7. An undergarment worn by women to support their breasts.

8. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables.

9. A very poisonous metallic element that has three allotropic forms.

10. An indehiscent fruit derived from a single ovary having one or many seeds within a fleshy wall or pericarp.

11. German iris having large white flowers with lavender-tinged falls and a fragrant rhizome.

12. A religious belief of African origin involving witchcraft and sorcery.

18. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

20. In bed.

23. Any member of Athapaskan tribes that migrated to the southwestern desert (from Arizona to Texas and south into Mexico).

28. Date used in reckoning dates before the supposed year Christ was born.

29. East Indian tree yielding a resin used medicinally and burned as incense.

31. A federally sponsored corporation that insures accounts in national banks and other qualified institutions.

32. A village in eastern Ireland (northwest of Dublin).

33. A Kwa language spoken by the Yoruba people in southwestern Nigeria.

34. The Tibeto-Burman language spoken in the Dali region of Yunnan.

36. English theoretical physicist who applied relativity theory to quantum mechanics and predicted the existence of antimatter and the positron (1902-1984).

38. Characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions.

39. Omission of a sound between two words (usually a vowel and the end of one word or the beginning of the next).

40. A fine grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magnesium silicate.

45. The capital and largest city of Bangladesh.

46. A small piece of cloth.

47. East Indian tart yellow berrylike fruit.

49. Minute floating marine tunicate having a transparent body with an opening at each end.

51. A small cake leavened with yeast.

52. An Arabic speaking person who lives in Arabia or North Africa.

55. Seed of a pea plant.

56. Being six more than fifty.

57. Committee formed by a special-interest group to raise money for their favorite political candidates.

59. An international organization of European countries formed after World War II to reduce trade barriers and increase cooperation among its members.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) You feel a love of order and law—an appreciation for responsibilities and duty. Problems are valued for the lessons they represent, rather than perceived as obstacles. You are in a planning mood and are very clearheaded and able to view all the alternate paths. Go ahead, make those decisions— you can see the road ahead and will make the right choices. There are opportunities to assert yourself in many areas of your life. Perhaps it is because your essence has taken on more of a sense of power. You can find new ways to relate and may be innovative in marriage and social conventions. Very accepting of differences, you have good insights into all social values. Independent. Today will give you plenty of opportunities to show off your adaptability.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

NON SEQUITUR

You may feel that you lack depth and feeling and the ability to move or communicate with others today. This could result in having your mind elsewhere—perhaps some upcoming vacation plans are in the works.

Anything other than the regular day’s routine may take some real concentration efforts. Keep ongoing notes about your future plans nearby so that you can devote your thinking to the present. You may have a lot to learn regarding what is and what is not essential in life. This evening, lovers, children and other people or things dear to your heart are emphasized. Being appreciated and admired for your gifts and talents are powerful needs. Taking chances in your relationships can bring big rewards this evening. Sing a happy tune!

Leo (July 23-August 22) Quick answers, great wit and a surplus of insights and solutions are easy to find. This is a good time to write and communicate with real originality. Inventions and breakthroughs are possible. Deadlines are not a problem. Tonight there is an urge to try new things, perhaps purchasing furniture or a new paint color for a bedroom. In this case, your tendency to rebel may result in a negative response. It is time to present the facts and remove the emotional viewpoints. A nowin situation could result if you do not think things through first. You value independence, as well as anything unusual or different. You might consider a shopping trip with a loved one today. Once out among new styles and prices, you may find your ideas win approval.

ZITS

Virgo (August 23-September 22) You have insight into your emotions and drive today and if need be, you can talk about your feelings with great insight. This is a time when you can put your practical insights into words and convey them to others.

You communicate mystical and mythological ideas very well. You are at home in these realms and can always manage to bring otherworldly ideas into the practical realms.

You would make an excellent teacher of philosophy or religion. You cannot help but communicate these subjects and enchant all who come to know you. Your understanding of the unity behind appearances, along with the ability to put these thoughts into words, is a rare and valuable gift. You would make a good director, for you like working with mental images.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) You could find yourself getting overemotional and flying off the handle this morning. There is an urge to please others that is strong enough to make it hard to decide or act for fear of offending someone. You will quickly balance this out, or you will discover that there is no peace in compromise. The trick is to find the win-win solution to the no-win situation—and if anyone is ever up to it, you are now. Friends and perhaps neighbors will give you an opportunity to laugh and enjoy upbeat conversations. General good feelings and a sense of support can make for a lively afternoon. There is the possibility of new visions or sudden insights into your self-image or into your ideals and dreams. There are breakthroughs in any communication difficulties today.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You may feel left out or passed over just now. Your own requirements may appear to limit and separate you from where the rest of the gang is headed. Perhaps there is a sense of challenge or blockage just now. You may not find support at this time; however, this is of short duration. Knowing that you will get your turn at whatever you want to learn, accomplish or just participate in, will give you patience. Easy does it today—plenty of fresh air and a healthy attitude will see you successfully through. Lightning fast when it comes to a family decision this afternoon, you seem to have direct insight into what is worth everyone’s comfort and enjoyment. You have new and unconventional ways to cut through any confusion— others are listening to you.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

To

Yesterday’s Solution

You understand how to handle authorities and have a natural gift at solving problems. You will be solving the problems now that may have come up yesterday. You have a lot of energy for improving your surroundings or life situations. You are very motivated. There is an ability to understand and communicate emotional situations to others. You have a strong drive to unify and simplify. You want something more imaginative and less ordinary. A yearning for other worlds and for a more cosmic form of love exists—not too unlike some of the television shows today. Helping others is what makes you happy. Consider a volunteer service that reaches other countries—you could blossom. You could be a successful news reporter.

Before the day even begins, you may feel that it is time for you to change your image. This may mean a new hairdo or some other way you want to alter your appearance and you make plans. Catching up on personal projects, preparing for the workweek, working in a garden or flower bed seems to be the routine for the day. You might consider a little time out of your busy day to enjoy a picnic in your very own backyard. Interested in serving others, you worry about their welfare. You like to take care of everything and are always redeeming, salvaging and restoring. You could gain insight from a young person this afternoon. You and a friend or loved one may enjoy a good movie later today. This is a time to enjoy and appreciate your ties to others.

Yesterday’s Solution Yester

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) Fundamental religious or philosophical beliefs cry out for reexamination in the light of new information and influences.

Educational projects require much study and may also involve travel to a library or museum. Fresh insight comes to you through mass media news reports such as broadcasting, publishing and advertising—giving you a whole new prospective with particular subjects. There is a need to see both sides of an issue and strike a fair balance in several basic ideas. In-depth conversations find you at your mental best. You may find yourself lecturing, helping others to study or enjoying a new creative technique, etc. Your analytical abilities are at a high. You have just enough time to play with your own creative hobby this evening.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Word Sleuth Solution

A

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e niv rsar n

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

Years

i n f o r m at i o n FIRE BRIGADE

STATE ST TAT TE OF KUW KUWAIT K WA AIT

Tel.: T e el.: 161

DIRECTORA DIRECTORATE AT TE GENE GENERAL ERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION AV VIA AT TION METEOROLOGICAL DEP D DEPARTMENT PA ARTMENT

112

DA AY: Y Sunday DAY:

WWW .MET.GOV V..KW W WWW.MET.GOV.KW

10/07/2011 10/07/201 1

Ministry of Interior

Ext.: 2627 262 27 - 2630

Fax: 24348714

07:00

Time Issue Time

Expected Weather Weather for the Next 24 4 Hours Very V ery e h hot with moderate to fresh north no orth westerly wind, with speed speeed of 20 - 45 km/h causing raising raising dust

BY Y DAY: DA AY:

website: www.moi.gov.kw Hazy with w light to moderate freshening fresheening gradually north westerly westerly wind, with speed of 15 - 40 4 km/h

BY Y NIGHT: NIGHT:

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128

Windy W indy weather with dust d

WARNING W ARNING A STATION ST TATION T

Hospitals Sabah Hospital

24812000

MAX. EXP. EXP P.

MIN.. REC.

KUW WAIT A CITY KUWAIT

48 °C

36 °C

KUW WAIT A AIRPORT AIRPOR RT KUWAIT

49 °C

37 °C

49 °C C

37 °C C

Amiri Hospital

22450005

NUW WAISEEB A NUWAISEEB

Maternity Hospital

24843100

WAFRA A WAFRA

49 °C

37 °C

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

SALMI

45 °C

32 °C

Chest Hospital

24849400

ABDAL LY ABDALY

50 °C

35 °C

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

ALIY YAH A JAL ALIYAH

48 °C

36 °C

Adan Hospital

23940620

FAILAKA A FAILAKA

48 °C

33 °C

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

POR RT AHMADI PORT

47 °C

38 °C

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

M UMM AL-MARADEM

40 °C

33 °C

Physiotherapy Hospital

24874330/9

WARBA A A - BUBYAN BUBY YAN A WARBA

49 °C

32 °C

Clinics

SFC. CHART CHART

10/07/2011 0000 UTC 10/07/2011

4 DAYS DA AYS Y FORECAST

4732263

Roudha

22517733

Adhaliya

22517144

Monday

11/07 11/07

very hot + raising dust

49 °C

36 °C

NW

22 - 42 km/h

Khaldiya

24848075

Tuesday Tuesday

12/07

very hot + raising dust

48 °C

35 °C

NW-N NW-N

20 - 40 km/h

Keifan

24849807

Weednesday Wednesday

13/07

very hot

48 °C

34 °C

NW

15 - 35 km/h

Shamiya

24848913

Thursday

14/07

very hot + raising dust

49 °C

36 °C

NW

25 - 45 km/h

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salim

22549134

Al-Nuzha

Temperatures Temperratures DATE DA AT TE

WEA WEATHER AT THER

MAX.

PRAYER PR RA AY YER TIMES

MIN.

Wind Wind Speed

Wind Wind Direction Direction

RECORDED D YESTERDA YESTERDAY AY A AT T KUW KUWAIT WA AIT T AIRPOR AIRPORT T

Fajr

03:23

MAX. MA AX. Temp.

Temp.

51 °C

22526804

Sunrise S i

04 56 04:56

MIN. Temp.

MI IN T IN. emp.

35 °C

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Zuhr

11:53 11:53

MAX. RH M

10 %

Al-Khadissiya

22515088

Asr

15:28

MIN. RH M

03 %

Dasmah

22532265

Sunset

18:51

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20:21

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22531908

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22518752

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22459381

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22451082

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22456536

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22465401

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25746401

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25316254

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25623444

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25388462

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25381200

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22630786

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24810221

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24770319

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24575755

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24772608

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24775066

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24775992

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24311795

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24884079

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24892674

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24719048

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24710044

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3900322

22418714

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22545171

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24810598

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22545171

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24742838

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22434853

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22545051

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24711433

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24316983

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23927002

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24316983

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23980088

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23711183

Al-Shuaiba

23262845

Al-Jahra

25610011

Al-Salmiya

25616368

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

li fe s ty le G O S S I P

Yoga fan

Aniston ennifer Aniston admits yoga is an “important” part of her life. The ‘Horrible Bosses’ star believes in looking after her diet and following a regular exercise regime and says her spirit “goes” if she is unable to find the time to do so.

She said: “I do yoga, yoga is very important. I love it. “If I’m not doing it, then my spirit sort of goes. “I try to do some form of exercise, even if it’s just for 20 minute a day, so that I get my body sweating and blood pumping.” However, Jennifer admits she isn’t always strict with her eating habits but thinks she has found a balanced approach. She added: “I indulge when I want to indulge - but I guess it’s all in moderation and consistency.” The 42-year-old actress - who is dating actor Justin Theroux - insists she doesn’t worry about ageing because she feels better than ever. She said: “I absolutely get more comfortable in my body and in who I am as I get older. “I was just so awkward and uncomfortable before. I’m way more comfortable now than when I was in my twenties.”

J

Dane and Gayheart expecting second child

Bloom

E

intimidated by LA

rlando Bloom thinks Los Angeles is “big and intimidating”. The British actor - who divides his time with wife Miranda Kerr and their six-month-old son Flynn between London and the US city - was overwhelmed when he took a flight out of California and caught a glimpse of the landscape. He said: “My first overriding memory of LA is flying out of

O

ric Dane and Rebecca Gayheart are expecting their second child. The 38-yearold actor and former ‘Beverly Hills 90210’ star - who already have 16-month-old daughter Billie Beatrice - are thrilled with the news that they will welcome another child into their family later this year. A source told Life & Style magazine: “She’s glowing-and so happy. They wanted to add another child to their family, and now they’ve got that! They’re in a real good place.” A spokesperson for the couple confirmed they are expecting another baby, but did not say when the new arrival is due. ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ star Eric - who married Rebecca in 2004 - recently admitted he finds his wife even more attractive since she gave birth to Billie. He said: “I don’t know if there’s any change more significant that a human being can make than that of a woman becoming a mother. There’s no change more dramatic. “You know, I’m a hundred times more attracted to her now and I love her exponentially more than I did before. It’s just great to see her be a mother.” Eric also spoke of how much he enjoys taking his daughter to the park and seeing how much she enjoys the experience. He said: “I like watching her laugh. Seeing this kid laugh when you put her on the swing, or slide down the slide with her, it’s just. She owns me.”

favorite part of LA is the hills or the canyons, which are great for mountain biking.” However, the actor also loves to spend time at home with his family and friends. Asked to describe a perfect day, he told Tatler magazine: “Having family time, good food, good friends, a nice glass of wine, then winding down with a movie at home.”

the city to New Zealand to do ‘Lord of the Rings’ and looking out of the window of the plane thinking it looked big and intimidating.

“A bit scary really - just so vast and bustling.”

Despite regarding Los Angeles as his work base, Orlando loves going out into the hills on his bicycle. He said: “I love being close to nature and being outdoors, so I would have to say my

Saldana has ‘respect’ for guns he ‘Avatar’ actress says she has grown up around weapons and enjoys using them, but always makes sure she’s careful whenever she does. She said: “Women with guns is happening and it’s exciting. On a personal level, I have respect for weapons and I like using them. I grew up in a family of hunters so I’ve been around guns my whole life, although I would never actually hunt myself. I’ve never taken a life, except maybe an ant or insect here and there . and it still haunts me.” Zoe also revealed how she is “addicted to adrenalin” even though it often leaves her “black and blue”. Talking about her latest assassin movie ‘Colombiana’, Zoe, 33, told Total Film magazine: “I always go home looking like a map. That’s what my mom tells me because I have black and blue all over the place. But I’m addicted to the adrenalin of being a physical person. “That said, I’m entering the consciousness of mortality. With ‘Avatar’ I was fine: I’d get hurt, I’d get up, I’d brush it off and keep going. But my body feels like it’s aged 10 years. It can’t reboot as quickly.”

A

he ‘Do It Like a Dude’ hitmaker refused to let audience members undermine her confidence when she supported Chris Brown in 2009 so came up with a unique way to confront those who didn’t like her music. She explained: “I remember getting booed one night because everyone wanted to see the main act so I just booed back. “I said, ‘I’m only here for 10 minutes, so if you like it, scream. If you don’t, boo me but I’ll boo back as loud as you.’ It made them laugh.

“You’ve got to believe in yourself and be confident. That was a great development for me to learn my craft without being in

T

the limelight.” Jessie originally signed to a US label as a songwriter and had to “beg” to be allowed to release her own music in her native UK before she was launched as an artist Stateside. She explained to Closer magazine: “I grew up watching ‘Top of the Pops’ and always wanted to be a part of the British music scene. I begged my American label, ‘Please let me release in the UK first.’ “‘Do It Like a Dude’ went to number one in the UK charts for two weeks. I beat Lady Gaga to the top spot in the second week, which was the most indescribable, amazing feat of accomplishment.”

Clooney feels ‘unclean’ after awards season he 50-year-old actor began humanitarian work in Sudan in 2005 after feeling the need to do something more beneficial to the world after tiring of “campaigning” to be recognized for his movie achievements. He explained: “I had just come out of Oscar season and you really do campaign, like kissing babies. “By the time it’s over, you sort of feel unclean. “You want to do something that makes you feel better.” Following his first trip to the war-torn country with his father, George donated money to build a well and huts, but soon learned to use other ways than his wealth to help the African territory because of what happened to his gifts. He explained: “A year later, the next-door villagers - who wanted water and needed shelter - killed some people to get to that well and shelter. “It’s devastating. We have to be very careful sometimes helping is not throwing money at a problem.”

George believes other celebrities should follow his lead and use their positions to help the world. He added to Marie Claire magazine: “There is ever more attention on celebrity than ever - and there is a use for that besides selling products. “We can’t make policy but we can ‘encourage’ politicians more than ever before.”

T

Radcliffe wants to study archaeology he 21-year-old actor is sad that the ‘Harry Potter’ movie series - in which he has played the titular boy wizard in all eight films - is coming to a close, but happy he will now have more free time to pursue his interests. He said: “I watch a huge amount of stuff on the Discovery Channel and have started considering doing an Open University course because I’m becoming more and more fascinated by archaeology. “So yes, as sad as I am to say goodbye to Harry, I’m really excited to see what the future holds.”

While Daniel is looking forward to pursuing other interests, fans can expect not to see him getting involved in sport as he admits he is “hopeless”. He told Britain’s Hello! magazine: “I’m fit. I can run and I’m very agile but in terms of sports, I’ve always been pretty rubbish. “I love cricket but I’m abysmal at it. What I love about cricket is there’s a place for hopeless enthusiasts and that’s what I am. “If nothing else, I can bring out the half-time oranges and keep score.”

T

Hollywood success

used to ‘boo’ her critics

Tautou doesn’t want

T

J e i s Jes

udrey Tautou is not “especially interested” in Hollywood success. The 34-year-old French actress shot to fame after appearing in ‘Amelie’ in 2002, but apart from appearing in 2006’s ‘The Da Vinci Code’, she has done few big budget movies and insists she doesn’t worry about her lack of offers from US filmmakers. She said: “You really need to want it to be offered some roles in Hollywood. There are so many wonderful actresses who want to work there. “You’re not going to ask the little one who’s like, ‘Oh no. But. Me?’ who’s not especially interested. “Also, I don’t want to be too much exposed and that was another reason why I was happy to do ‘The Da Vinci Code’ but I would never keep doing that.” The ‘Beautiful Lies’ star also admitted she never wanted to be in the spotlight, despite the fact she likes her career. She explained to Marie Claire magazine: “I didn’t have this vocation to be an actress. That’s my paradox. I like acting, I like playing, trying to disappear into the part but I don’t like to be the centre of attention. “I could have been fulfilled even if I worked in the in the shadows. I would never have imagined it to become who I am today.” — Bang Showbiz

A

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e niv rsar n

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

Years

lifestyle M U S I C

&

M O V I E S

Folk singer

Facundo Cabral killed in Guatemala

O

ne of Latin America’s most admired folk singers, Facundo Cabral, was killed Saturday when three carloads of gunmen ambushed the vehicle in which he was riding, prompting expressions of anguish from across the region. Authorities said the performer’s concert promoter was apparently the target.

Interior Minister Carlos Menocal said the Argentine singer and novelist was on his way to Guatemala’s main airport at 5:20 am when cars flanked it on both sides and gunmen opened fire as a third vehicle blocked it from the front.

Speaking at a news conference along with President Alvaro Colom, the minister said early investigations indicated the bullets were meant for the driver, Cabral’s Nicaraguan promoter, Henry Farinas, who was wounded.

Cabral, 74, rose to fame in the early 1970s, one of a generation of singers who mixed political protest with literary lyrics and created deep bonds with an audience struggling through an era of revolution and repression across Latin America.

Colom said he had called his Argentine counterpart, Cristina Fernandez, to tell her of the slaying. “It seemed to hit her hard and she asked me to keep her informed about how the investigation is developing,” he told Argentina’s Radio 10.

At the news conference later, he said the slaying was committed by “people involved in organized crime. They are not street killers. It’s a well-planned operation.” But officials said they were not sure of the motive.

Cabral’s vehicle was trailed by a vehicle carrying four bodyguards, who opened fire and tried to chase the attackers, Menocal said.

Officials later found one of the vehicles apparently used in the attack alongside a highway toward El Salvador. Menocal said flak jackets, pistols and the magazine of a Kalashnikov assault rifle were found inside.

Menocal said Cabral initially planned to take a hotel shuttle to the airport, but accepted a ride from Farinas. Cabral was a confirmed

vagabond, born poor in 1937 in the provincial city of La Plata after his father abandoned their large family. At the age of 9, he began hitchhiking alone up the length of Argentina to beg for a job for his mother.

He did odd jobs and was illiterate until he got some education in a reformatory as a teenager. He eventually picked up a guitar, singing in the manner of his idol, Argentine folklorist Atahualpa Yupanqui.

Cabral began singing for tourists in the beach resort of Mar del Plata, and by 1970

became internationally known through his song “No soy de aqui ni alla” - “I’m Not From Here Nor There - which was recorded hundreds of times in many languages.

By the time Argentina fell under military rule in 1976, Cabral was clearly identified as a protest singer, and so he fled for his life to Mexico, where he kept recording, writing books and giving concerts. He lost his wife and a 1-year-old daughter in a plane crash in 1978.

His concerts were a mix of philosophy and

folklore, spoken-word poems and music reflecting his roots in the gaucho culture of rural Argentina. He identified himself as an anarchist at times, professing a spirituality unchained to any particular religion. On stage, he celebrated the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi and Mother Teresa, the humanism of Walt Whitman and the observations of Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges.

“Facundo Cabral was our last troubadour.

As much a philosopher-poet as a singer, he was a living testament to the search for what

Mourners light candles in honor of murdered Argentinean artist Facundo Cabral in Guatemala City.

Weinstein Co to remake French film ‘Untouchable’

T

he Weinstein Company has acquired the French language movie “Untouchable”-and the rights to remake it in English, the studio announced Friday. It’s the kind of movie the Weinstein Co loves: an improbable tale-based on actual events-of the friendship between Philippe, a wealthy paraplegic, and Driss, the street tough he hires to help him negotiate life.

The deal gives the Weinstein Co rights in North America, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Scandinavia, South Africa and China and distribution rights for pan-Asian satellite television. Eric Toledano and Olivier Nakache directed the movie, which stars Francois Cluzet (“In the Beginning,” “Tell No One”) as Philippe and Omar Sy (“Those Happy Days”) as Driss.

The Weinstein Co expects to release the movie in the US in 2012. Quad Films produced “Untouchable” and the Weinstein Co acquired it from French movie studio Gaumont. — Reuters

Seal performs on July 9, 2011 during the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam. — AFP

New ‘Spider-Man’ star swings into Comic-Con

Diaz

says playing a rotten teacher taught her a thing or two

unites us in culture and society,” said Argentine singer Isabel de Sebastian. “After his concerts, you’d feel that our life in common was richer, more mysterious, more profound.”

He lived mostly on the road, in hotels and with friends, telling interviewers that he owned no home. He was particularly proud that UNESCO declared him to be an “international messenger of peace” in 1996. By the end, he often used a cane and had trouble with his vision, but refused to slow down.

“I always ask God, ‘Why have you given me so much?’ You’ve given me misery, hunger, happiness, struggle, enlightenment ... I’ve seen everything. I know there’s cancer, syphilis and springtime, and fried apple dumplings,” Cabral said at 71, during an Associated Press interview in Miami.

He never thought of retiring: “I can’t stop, I wouldn’t be able to,” he said. “I breathe on the road ... on stage I’m 50 years younger, it pleases me to excite people with life.” Cabral said then he would like to die while on a concert tour.

Cabral gave his last concert Thursday in the city of Quetzaltenango, 120 miles (200 kilometers) west of Guatemala City. Guatemala’s 1992 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Rigoberta Menchu, went to the scene of the killing and wept. “For me, Facundo Cabral is a master,” she said. “He loved Guatemala greatly.” Other Guatemalans also came to the site, leaving flowers.

Words of mourning came from the presidents of Colombia and Ecuador, and even the Twitter site of Venezuela’s ailing President Hugo Chavez carried a message of condolence to Argentina at the death of “the great troubadour of the Pampas.” Argentina’s foreign minister, Hector Timerman, also sent a Twitter message, saying “Adios, amigo” and expressing “profound sadness.”

Social networks were filled with expressions of outrage. “I feel an immeasurable shame, a profound anger for my country,” said Ronalth Ochaeta, former director of a Catholic Church human rights office Guatemala, on his Facebook account. — AP

Aniston gets hand and foot prints immortalized

A

fter 17 years of winning over moviegoers with her milelong legs, breezy confidence and wide, almost goofy smile, one of Hollywood’s consummate charmers has had enough. Cut the charisma and cue the contempt: It’s time, finally, to loathe Cameron Diaz. As an unrepentant moral scourge in her new film “Bad Teacher,” Diaz plays Elizabeth Halsey — an educator who steals, cheats, lies, sleeps in class, smokes pot in the school parking lot and swears like a trucker, often in red pen remarks scrawled on the work of her middleschool students. Dumped by her sugar daddy, Elizabeth’s goal is to make enough money for a pair of breast implants that she thinks will help earn her the affections of another meal ticket, a teacher with a trust fund (Justin Timberlake) who’s as mild as she is wild.

Thirty pages into reading the script, Diaz says she thought she’d pass on the role. Instead, she made a conscious decision to try something new. “I’m trained as an actor to look for a character to be someone at the end who people like. Reading this script, I was thinking, there’s no way out of this for this girl,” Diaz says, twirling her hair and sipping a soy milk latte at a Beverly Hills restaurant. “She does so many things that are so selfish and narcissistic and closed off. How can she be redeemed?”

In person Diaz, 38, is perky but guarded, and fond of the word “amazing.” The script? Amazing. Her costars? Amazing.

The set? Amazing. That soy milk latte? Also apparently pretty darn good. But the indefatigably cheerful actress confesses she found a certain liberation in Elizabeth’s dismal disposition.

“Her disdain for life is one that I relished playing,” Diaz says.

“I’m such a cheerleader, it’s kind of fun to play a character who thinks everything sucks.” And then, you realize, she’s doing it again: Playing rotten and R-rated, Diaz may make us like her even more. Which is exactly what “Bad Teacher” director Jake Kasdan had in mind. “She’s probably the only actress of her generation that people are actually excited to see behave this badly,” Kasdan says. “It’s part of her relationship with the audience at this point that she is this gorgeous woman who can do raunchy. Cameron appeals to both genders in a very real way. People just want to hang out with her.”

A native of San Diego and a teenage model, Diaz came to fame in Hollywood in the 1990s playing sexy but wide-eyed characters. At 21, she stepped into the first scene of “The

Actress Jennifer Aniston is immortalized during a hand and foot print ceremony at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre’s forecourt in Hollywood, California Thursday. —MCT Cameron Diaz, left, and Justin Timberlake star in the comedy ‘Bad Teacher,’ from Columbia Pictures.—MCT Mask” in a slinky red dress, providing Jim Carrey with an excuse to stammer and gape and elevating the stock hot-girl role enough to earn herself a string of indie film parts. As the high school crush who got away from Ben Stiller in “There’s Something About Mary” in 1998, Diaz was the naive center of a gross-out comedy that helped pave the way for lowbrow franchises like “The Hangover” and “American Pie.” In the movie’s most famous scene, Mary mistakes a bodily fluid for hair gel.

“Mary, the character, the movie, was sort of innocent,” Diaz said. “But Elizabeth is definitely a different kind of woman than existed in the ‘90s. She’s driven in a different way. Comedy is always a reflection of what we can laugh at about ourselves.

Humor is really just people telling the truth. It just depends what truth needs to be told at that time.”

Now is the time, it seems, for leading ladies who are in on the joke. “Bad Teacher” comes on the heels of “Bridesmaids,” the Kristen Wiig movie that has earned $124 million at the box office and proved that audiences will turn out for an Rrated comedy driven by a band of mischievous females.

Another test of the nascent genre will arrive in September with Anna Faris’ “What’s Your Number?” about a frisky young woman wondering just how many men she can get away with bedding. —MCT

F

ormer ‘Friends’ star Jennifer Aniston has left a permanent mark on Hollywood by getting her hand and foot prints immortalized. The 42-yearold actress joined the likes of Betty Grable, Elizabeth Taylor and Tom Cruise on Thursday by leaving a mark in cement at the Hand and Footprint Ceremony outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard, reported Aceshowbiz.

Aniston came to the ceremony wearing a flowerpatterned Prada dress with a pair of Gucci shoes and was accompanied by her new boyfriend Justin Theroux “All actors who want to do this, it’s really, really fun, but you really, really have to want to do it, [because] there’s all sorts of stuff that comes along with it,” she said.

She went on to joke, “But man, I have to tell you, I never in my wildest dreams though that I’d be sticking my body in cement.” The honor was presented to her by yet to release Horrible Bosses costar Jason Bateman. “I don’t feel nearly as lucky as the sidewalk, because the sidewalk - for years long after we’re all gone - gets to now include, poured into its rigid cement, a woman whose spirit is every bit as solid, whose integrity is every bit as unbreakable and whose body is every bit as hard,” Bateman said. —Press Trust Of India

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ony Pictures will be weaving quite the web at Comic-Con this year. The studio announced on Friday that Andrew Gar field, star of the upcoming superhero-movie reboot “The Amazing Spider-Man,” will be on hand for the annual convention, which takes place July 21-24 in San Diego.

Garfield, who’s inheriting the role of heroic webslinger Spider-Man from Tobey Maguire, will be joined by his co-star Emma Stone, director Marc Webb and producer Avi Arad for a panel on the movie on Friday, July 22. (The movie is slated for a July 3, 2012 release.) On Friday, Sony is also presenting panels on the sequel “Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance”-which will be attended by star Nicolas Cage and directors Mark Neveldine and Brian Taylor, among others-and the remake “Total Recall,” for which Kate Beckinsale, Colin Farrell, Jessica Biel and Bryan Cranston will be present. —Reuters

Beyonce, 3rd left, performs at the T in the Park music festival in Kinross, Scotland, Saturday July 9, 2011. —AP

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

lifestyle

National parks T R A V E L

see springtime lull in visits

A photo shows a photograph of Mount Rainier’s reflection in Reflection Lake in Mount Rainier National Park. —MCT photos

G

o ahead, blame harsh weather or high gas prices for a marked reduction in visits to Yosemite and other national parks so far this year. The summer droves, though, are returning. In other words, the time to really beat the crowds may have passed. At traditionally popular parks from Yosemite and Yellowstone to M oun t R a i ni e r a nd th e G re a t Sm o k y Mountains, visitation from January through May fell compared with last year, sometimes

Smoky Mountains’ decline exceeded 8 percent. Elsewhere, the falloff has been even more dramatic. Yellowstone recorded a 14 percent decline in recreation visits through May 31 compared with 2010, and Mount Rainier repor ted a stunning 26 percent reduction. “It’s rather difficult to know why,” Yellowstone spokesman Al Nash said Tuesday. “We don’t survey people who don’t show up.” Nash noted that this year’s visitation figures almost inevitably pale compared

major highway nearby forced many more visitors to drive through the park as an alternative. This inflated last year’s visitation total and made a reduction this year predictable.

More broadly, any decline in international travel will ripple through the US parks, where foreigners can make up a big share of the visitors. Economic hard times certainly can keep people at home. “Our best guess may be that some of it is from fuel prices,” Miller said, “but we don’t really have a way of knowing why people don’t come.”

In April 2010, the average U.S. retail price for gasoline was about $2.90 a gallon, according to the Energy Department. A year later, the average price was nearly $4 a gallon.

Weather has dampened visitation, as well.

Heavy storms, for instance, forced Yosemite to close for several days in March, while deep and persistent snow continues to slow road openings at Mount Rainier and Yellowstone.

“We had a big winter, with a lot of snow, and it lingered,” Nash said. At Yosemite, snow

Jason and Karalee Gregg, of Enumclaw, Washington, snowshoeing in Mount Rainier National Park.

Jeffrey and Mary Shapiro, of Johnson City, Tennessee, share their first Cliff Tops sunset from Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

forced park officials to postpone the opening of the important Tioga Pass highway until June 18, about two weeks later than last year and a month later than 2009.

National parks were still a big draw, to be sure, even during the relatively slow spring and winter months. Through May 31, a total of 89,318,694 recreation visitors were recorded in all National Park Service units.

(Some of these park service “units” are obscure, such as the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in Northern California (1,162 visitors, down a grand total of 62 from last year).

Others are heavily trafficked, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina (2,651,237 visitors, up a remarkable 701,209).

When the weather turns, moreover, visitation can rise quickly. The very snowfall that blanketed Yosemite and deterred visitors earlier this year, for instance, now is engorging the rivers and propelling the waterfalls that more visitors are flocking to see. “We see a lot of people traveling, a lot of people on the road,” said Lester Bridges, the president of the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce, near Yosemite. — MCT

Brave water bathers stand in a cold deluge of spay but safely out from under the pounding of Narada Falls at Mount Rainier National Park. dramatically. The smaller crowds thrilled park visitors but worried the businesses that depend on them.

“The concessionaires and the gateway communities had a ver y tough spring,” Yosemite National Park spokesman Scott Gediman acknowledged Tuesday, “but the summer will be huge.” Through May 31, Yosemite reported an approximately 7 percent decline in recreation visits compared with the same period last year; the Great

with the park’s record numbers last year.

Yellowstone also garners its biggest visitation numbers, by far, during the summer.

Many of the major, so-called “crown jewel” parks experienced reductions significantly greater than the overall National Park Service visitor decline of less than 1 percent.

The reasons can range from the parochial to the global. At Great Smoky Mountains, for instance, park spokesman Bob Miller noted that the temporary closure last year of a

A train of six veteran llamas led by Missy Whitt goes under Grotto Falls on the Trillium Gap Trail heading up to LeConte Lodge in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

lifestyle F E A T U R E

Malfoy actors talk good, evil as Potter saga ends

In this film publicity image released

by Warner Bros Pictures, Ralph Fiennes portrays Lord Voldemort in a scene from ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2.’

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o this is the face of evil: Ice-blue eyes, an imperious brow, the sculpted features of Lucius Malfoy, the Muggle-hating wizard supremacist and implacable foe of Harry Potter. As Malfoy, 48-year-old actor Jason Isaacs has plumbed his character’s dark heart and chilled millions of moviegoers since he appeared in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” in 2002. So it comes as a surprise - it shouldn’t but it does - to hear the British performer renounce evil.

There is, he says, no such thing.

Even arch-villain Lord Voldemort is not so much wicked as misguided.

“No one is ever bad,” said the disconcertingly genial Isaacs, in jeans and a casual shirt looking nothing like the supercilious Lucius. “Voldemort sees the way the world ought to be, in his own eyes, and is trying to make it that way.”

Isaacs returns for a sixth and final time as the black-clad, blonde-haired warlock in “Harr y Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2,” the last film in the magical saga, which premieres Thursday in London and opens around the world next week. The film reunites Isaacs with Helen McCrory, 42, as his wife Narcissa Malfoy and 23-year-old Tom Felton as their son Draco, Harry’s classmate and bitter rival at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The Malfoys embody the dark side of J.K . Rowling’s magical world.

Staunch allies of Voldemort, they uphold what they see as the purity of wizard ways and wizard blood against the influence of ordinar y humans, or Muggles. Isaacs said Lucius speaks “the language of separation, the language of racism, the language of eugenics.”

“You don’t need to look very far in Europe nowadays to see politicians nowadays standing on those platforms and seemingly reasonably gathering an awful lot of followers and votes,” he said.

“And you don’t need to go too far in America, either.” Such real-life complexities have helped make Rowling’s books worldwide best-sellers, with 450 million copies sold - and enriched the experience of the movies’ cast, which includes a roster of distinguished British actors.

“All her characters are rounded,” Isaacs said. “They all have destinies they are struggling with or bonds that they’re breaking or internal challenges. There’s no character in Potter which is off the shelf. These are delicious characters to play.” Isaacs and McCrory both have a history of playing the bad guy. Isaacs’ roll call of villains ranges from Captain Hook in “Peter Pan” to Col. Tavington, the nasty redcoat who pursues Mel Gibson in Revolutionary War drama “The Patriot.” McCrory is an accomplished classical actress whose stage roles have included a chilling Lady M acbeth. Less villainously, she played Cherie Blair, wife of the British prime minister, in “The Queen” and “The Special Relationship.” “Normally it’s more interesting to play the bad guy because it’s usually better written,” said M cCror y, who will be appearing soon in Martin Scorsese’s film “Hugo Cabret.” “Good is seen in a lot of drama today as a very, very dull thing.” —AP

Harry Potter cast members Jason Isaacs and Helen McCrory who portray Lucius and Narcissa Malfoy pose during an interview with The Associated Press in London, Tuesday, July 5, 2011. — AP

Facundo Cabral killed in Guatemala

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MONDAY, JULY 11, 2011

British royals given Hollywood star treatment P rince William and his wife Catherine outshone even Hollywood’s brightest stars Saturday, as Britain’s future king lobbied for up-and-coming British actors in the home of the US film industry.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were given the full red carpet treatment in Los Angeles-and generated more excitement than A listers including Tom Hanks and Nicole Kidman attending the star-studded event.

Hundreds of fans gathered outside the Belasco Theater in downtown LA, cheering as the usual celebrities arrived for the red carpet entry-but screaming the place down when William and Catherine arrived.

“They’re not just actors, their position is so much greater,” said LA local

Actress and singer Jennifer Lopez

Actress Elizabeth Banks

Sarah Pijuan, 28, after meeting the British royal couple who stopped to shake hands and talk to some of the fans.

The couple, on the last night of a 12-day trip to Canada and California before flying home yesterday, used the event to lobby for 42 lucky young British actors invited to network with some of Hollywood’s top talent.

William is president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), which hosted the black-tie dinner. Earlier in the day they had wowed the crowds at a charity polo match in Santa Barbara, an hour north of Los Angeles up the Pacific coast-especially after the prince’s team won the afternoon’s tournament. Tickets for the one-off event went for $400 dollars — $4,000 for the privilege of lunching with the royal couple before the on-field action.

The 29-year-old future king drew whoops of approval when he took the field under a blazing West Coast sun at the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club, as Catherine watched admiringly from the stands. “They’re great role models for young people, they’re elegant and great ambassadors for their country,” said Santa Barbara resident Victoria Hines, 65, dressed up for the exclusive event an hour north of Los Angeles. Catherine’s clothes have also impressed-she reportedly brought 40 outfits for the 12-day trip. On Saturday she was in a silver and marble grey dress by Jenny Packham to the polo, and a light blue dress to the evening BAFTA event.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge-as they have been since marrying in London in April-arrived in Los Angeles on Friday for the weekend trip following a nine-day tour of Canada. Officially, the Californian mini-tour will aim to “contribute to deepening and strengthening the multi-layered links between the United States and the United Kingdom,” according to a British official briefing. Unofficially, all eyes have been on who they meet-after David Beckham and British writer-broadcaster Stepehen Fr y on Friday, Saturday’s celebrity crop included Jennifer Lopez and Jack Black.

Yesterday, they visited “Skid Row” in downtown to visit the Inner-City Arts school, a nonprofit academy that provides free classes in visual and performing arts to children from poor neighborhoods. They attended a job fair for militar y veterans at Sony Studios in Culver City, before leaving Los Angeles to return to the United Kingdom after their 12-day north American trip. — AFP

Prince William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, arrive at the inaugural BAFTA Brits to Watch 2011 event at the Belasco Theater in Los Angeles, Saturday. —AP/AFP photos

Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, right, speaks with Tom Hanks, left, and his wife Rita Wilson.

British actors Ioan Gruffudd and Alice Evans

Prince William speaks with actress Nicole Kidman.

Actress Jennifer Garner

US actress Blake Lively

Prince William speaks with actress Jennifer Garner.

US actress Zoe Deschanel

Actress Nicole Kidman