National Yemen - Issue 09 by National Yemen Newspaper

YOUR NEW NEWSPAPER

Parent Child Relationships: Denial and Ingratitude

European plastic artists

(GPC) and (JMP) Reach New Agreement

NationalYemen The Facts As They Are

Economists Expect a Rise in Food Sunday, July 25, 2010 Volume 01 - Issue 09 Price: YER 30 www.nationalyemen.com

SANAA (AFP)

Fighting overnight between Shiite rebels and army-backed tribes in Yemen’s restive north killed 20 people on both sides, a tribal official said on Thursday, raising the death toll in five days of fighting to over 69. “Violent clashes took place overnight between Huthis and Bin Aziz tribes... leaving 20 dead from both sides,” the official said. Yemeni army forces deployed

in the area intervened to break up the fighting in Harf Sufyan in the northern Amran province, he added. The rebels used “different types of weapons” in their attempt to control several locations and tighten a siege on Bin Aziz villages, said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Fighting in the mountainous Continued on ( 3 )

Photo AMIRA AL-SHARIF

At Least 69 Dead in North Yemen Clashes

“After Many Years of Discord, Government GPC and Opposition JMP Sign New Agreement to Move Forward with Building a National Government--Much Like Two Elderly Women who Still Have Love For Each Other”

UN warns that aid operations in northern Yemen remain drastically under-funded

DUBAI, July 22- Gulf Air has announced that it will launch flights to Aden, the commercial capital of Yemen. The Gulf airline said that the flights to Aden will be served by an A319 aircraft. It said it would also relaunch flights to Colombo.

The United Nations is expressing concern about the humanitarian situation in northern Yemen, where the needs of the local population displaced by ongoing fighting vastly outstrip the funds provided so far by donors. The United Nations is expressing concern about the humanitarian situation in northern Yemen, where the needs of the local population displaced by ongoing fighting vastly outstrip the funds provided so far by donors.

Continued on ( 3 )

Yemeni Soldiers Killed in Ambush

Less than $70 million, or 36 per cent, of the $187 million sought this year by aid agencies

for assistance in Yemen has been received, the UN Office Continued on ( 3 )

“National Anti-Corrupt Strategies” Meeting to be Launched The second Arab Anti-Corruption and Integrity Network (ACINET) summit is to be held in Yemen for the year 2010. The meeting will take place in the Movenpick Hotel from 2627 July and will focus on addressing the impact of corruption in society. It will seek to

Gulf Air Flies to Aden

implement norms to eradicate it. The conference will hold an ACINET member-only session as well as workshop on “National Anti-Corruption strategies”. The goals of the conference,

which will be attended by governmental authorities and representatives from 13 Arab countries, high-profile political figures, and national and foreign stakeholders is to create awareness of the detrimental role of corruption, and discussing techniques for fighting and preventing it.

Ministry of the Interior leadership circulated a communiqué describing the type of truck, (white Hilux pickup with Saudi Arabia plate number 659 A V – R), used in an ambush against a military convoy on Thursday involving six soldiers from the Central Security Branch. The ambush took place in near the homeland of Anwar al-Awlaqi in Ataq, Shabwa governorate. The dastardly crime led to the martyrdom of five soldiers and injury of one. The crime was carried out by unknown gunmen riding in the Hilux truck. Ministry of the Interior officials said that the truck entered Yemen on July 5th through AlWadee’ah passageway. The car belongs to a Saudi citizen named Ahmed Saleh Hidaig Al-Hammami, whose name

appears on the blacklist as he’s wanted by the Security Services of Shabwa for the murder of five soldiers of the Central Security. The Central Security officials said that it had circulated a communiqué of the Saudi suspect’s name and information about the Hilux truck used in the crime. The communiqué was circulated to various provinces, airports, seaports, and checkpoints of Yemen. There are orders to arrest the Saudi Arabian suspect and seize the vehicle on sight. An official in the southern province of Shabwa said that there is suspicion that al Qaeda was behind the attack. He said that the gunmen escaped after the ambush, despite the massive presence of security forces in Ataq and checkpoints set up around the city

8 People Died in Traffic Incidents Last Week Eight people were killed and 40 others injured in 21 different incidents that occurred on various roads of the governorates last week. According to reports by the Traffic Services released yesterday, the accidents were as follows: six pedestrian accidents which resulted in the death of one person and injured of six others, three overturning accidents killing two and injuring 14 others, 12 vehicle-onvehicle accidents resulting in the death of 5 people dead and wounding 20 others injured. Traffic services attributed the causes of these accidents to speeding, reckless passing, negligence, and distracted driving due to cellphone use and chewing Qat.

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

ADVERTISMENTS

National Yemen

LOCAL

Win-Win Agreement the JPC, and the opposition parties, represented by the (JMP). They public view is skeptical, and many feel that the agreement satisfies members of both parties who only really have their self-interest and personal power at heart. Despite the agreement, they will continue to ignore the demands of Yemeni citizens.

Fakhri al-Arashi Publisher & Chief Editor

t seems to be a fair agreement for most of the political parties. Last week President Ali Abdullah Saleh announced to officials and the general public the new government strategy for establishing a national government as per the February 2009 agreement.

Since 1990, Yemen’s political landscape has witnessed dramatic changes. It began with the unity of Yemen, the most significant and widely respected event. Later came the war of 1994, the return of Yemeni immigrants during the first Gulf War, and many other local international crises. These all hindered Yemen’s development, and jeopardized a sustainable Yemeni economy. People of Yemen now await a safer tomorrow. A day without significant economic challenges, hot political conflicts, wars in Saa’ad with the Houthi rebellions, presence of al-Qaeeda in Marib, Shabwa, Abyen etc ,the eruption of the southern governorate movement, and unsustainable influx of Somali refugees. These and other challenges posed by rampant population growth, education disparity, and poor healthcare all directly affect the government’s ability to achieve its mission. However, businessmen and people on the street are not so encourage by this ‘political breakthrough’ between the government, represented by

The agreement simply shows their satisfaction with greater power. The president said that the JPC and JMP would have 100 seats each. They view this step as progress. Yes, while from one perspective it is progress, the process will continue to lack the principles and institutions that would make for a truly democratic state. One that represents the people through competition and free and fair elections. To the government and to the Opposition: The people are not satisfied with their living situations. They do not wish to be the victim of your political games. They want the right to live, the right to competitive education, affordable and quality healthcare, economic improvements and investment, democratic governance, and loyalty from their elected officials. Despite the recent fanfare, the people are quite pessimistic, and they are demanding practical improvements to their everyday lives. You are fighting to rule over them, while they are simply fighting to survive. Their attitudes are formed by your failure, and they are becoming increasingly angry. Always side with the people as the community is the partner with whom the government and opposition work with. You’ve reached an agreement, and I concede it was an important one. But it was only an agreement. Now the real work, the work on behalf of the people, begins.

Government Gives First Compensation Package to the Bani Hushaish On Thursday, Prime Minister Ali Mujawar and Sana’a Governor Numan Duwaid attended a ceremony marking the delivery of the first compensation package for people affected by sabotage and vandalism at the hands of the Houthi Group in Bani Hussiash district, Sana’a, in 2008. The total compensation amounts to YER 40 million and will be given to those whose homes and farms were partially or totally affected.

Oil Search Announces Yemen Oil & Gas Finds

National Yemen Tel : 01 251650 Contact us at :

Tel : 01 238070 Tel : 01 238380 Fax: 01 251651

Newspaper

At the ceremony, Mujawar conveyed the appreciation of President Saleh to the people who faced the Houthi elements when the rebels tried to disturb the district and hamper development in it. He underlined that the ceremony coincided with the anniversary of the election of President Saleh. He acknowledged the contributions of the people to the rebuilding efforts in the damaged areas. The Australian Company, Oil Search, that holds the oil concession in blocks 3 and 7 in Shabwa Governate, unveiled initial indications of the pres-

Fakhri Hassan Al-Arashi Publisher & Chief Editor

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

Yemen, Oxfam discuss possible support for Aden ADEN, July 22 – A meeting was of officials from the Planning and International Cooperation Office and the UK Oxfam GB was held on Thursday in Yemen’s business capital of Aden.

portance of the role of donor organizations, such as Oxfam, in financing necessary projects in the outskirts of the city. Cooperation with the local authorites, the office, and the civil society is important.

It discussed possible support the charity can provide for activities and projects in the city.

Director of Oxfam in the country praised the partnership between the Yemeni government and civil society organizations as well as engaging the civil society in preparing and

Director of the office, Samir Abdul Razaq, stressed the im-

implementating developmental plans.

After the meeting, the Oxfam delegation visited educational, health, and sanitation projects in two densely populated areas of al Emad and Code al Othmani in Dar Saad district.

Official Launching of Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN)

Release of 41 Yemeni fishermen held in Egypt and Eritrea

The Yemen Microfinance Network is holding its official launch on 1st August 2010, at the Movenpick Hotel, Sana’a, Yemen. It will be held under the patronage of H.E. Abdul Karim I. Al-Arhabi (Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Planning & International Cooperation and Managing Director of the Yemen Social Fund for Development).

ment Program (UNDP), initiated a joint three-year project to establish the first national microfinance network in the country, the Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN). It is charged with supporting a more “inclusive finance sector” in Yemen, addressing the issue of capacity building and transparency, and increasing the reach of microfinance services in the country.

SANA’A, July 23 – Egyptian authorities have released 20 Yemeni fishermen held since last month,almotamar.net reported on Friday.

ties released Wednesday 20 Yemeni fishermen, who were seized last month in international waters located between Sudan and Saudi Arabia.

21 Yemeni fishermen arrived on Thursday at the port of fishing, Hodeidah, who have been detained with 3 fishing boats while in international waters during the few past days, thealmotamar.net added.

The project aims to build supportive infrastructure necessary to enhance the capacity of local institutions. The local institutions can then provide a range of financial services and products to the entrepreneurial poor in a cost efficient manner. It will increase sustainable access to finance and enhance the scope of youth and women’s participation in economic activities.

According Yemen’s embassy in Egypt, the Egyptian authori-

The Interior Ministry said it had asked the Foreign Ministry to discuss the repeated piracy by the Eritrean against Yemeni fishing boats. They asked for solutions to the problem through diplomatic channels with the Eritreans to put an end to attacks on the Yemeni fishing boats.

The Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN) is a member based association registered on 31 August 2009 under the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor as a non-governmental organization (NGO). It has its own board of directors that consists of microfinance member institutions. The government of Yemen, represented by the Social Fund for Development (SFD) and the United Nations Develop1

At Least 69 Dead in North Yemen Clashes

north between the two sides over the past four days had left at least 49 people dead, threatening a fragile truce, tribal and rebel sources had said on Wednesday. Tribal sources had said the confrontations were between the Shiite Huthi rebels and supporters of tribal chief Sheikh Sagheer Aziz, but the rebels said the clashes were with the army, not the tribe. “We are confronting military positions. These are not tribal areas,” Mohammed Abdul Salam had told AFP by telephone. The tribal chief, Sheikh Sagheer Aziz is a member of the parliamentary bloc of the ruling General People’s Congress party. Six MPs began a sit-in on Tuesday at the parliament in support of Aziz, demanding government action to end an alleged siege. Meanwhile, 62 MPs had signed a petition demanding the government “assume responsibility in ending the violations committed by the

ence of gas and oil wells (salt no. 1) in block 7 at a depth of 2,870 meters. A statement issued by the company said that the evidence of gas and oil

Mohammed Al-Asaadi Editorial Consultant

Khaled Al-Sofi SeniorTranslator

Oxfam to support gender issue projects, and other necessary projects in fields of healthcare, education and sanitation at poor areas.

Furthermore, he expressed admiration for the experience of the local authority and the Planning and International Cooperation Office in Aden in engaging civil society organizations. Such engagement is critical for successfully executing the fourth five-year developmental plan. He voiced the readiness of

Mansoor Al-Rdaei News Editor

Huthis,” and threatening to suspend their parliamentary membership if the authorities failed to help Aziz. The Amran region and the neighboring Saada province have been the scenes of sporadic clashes between the rebels and government-backed tribes. The Huthis complain of political, social and religious marginalization, and have repeatedly fought with government forces in a conflict that began in 2004, killing thousands and displacing some 250,000 people. The Huthis and the government have repeatedly exchanged accusations of violating a February ceasefire which ended a six-month round of bloody conflict between the two sides. Neighboring Saudi Arabia became embroiled in the military fight in November after it accused the rebels of infiltrating its borders, killing one guard and occupying two villages.

emerged as they conducted deep drilling this week. Drilling will continue to reach the base rock layer at a depth of 3,700 meters

Fuad Al-Qadhi Business Editor

Gulf Air Flies to Aden

The airline will start its flights to Aden via Sana’a from September 22 with four weekly services. Colombo services will begin on October 5 with five flights per week by an A320 aircraft “Launching services to this new destination further demonstrates our new business strategy. We seek to identify and expand our operations into niche and under-served markets. In so doing we create potentially high yield city-pairs by providing direct service to Bahrain and beyond,” said Gulf Air CEO Samer Majali. Gulf Air hopes such flights will attract businessmen, tourists, families, and diplomats. “Gulf Air is establishing a leadership position as the first Gulf carrier to connect Aden to the region. Currently no other Gulf carriers are serving this 1

Najeeb Abdulwahed Technical Director

Wardah Al-shawesh Graphic Designer

for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported today. UN agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been providing relief to civilians in Yemen”s north, where Government forces have engaged rebels in sporadic armed conflict in recent years. As many as 340,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) are living in the five conflict-affected governorates of Hajjah, Amran, Sa”ada, Al-Jawf and Sana”a, with most staying with host communities. Health care is a major concern, with acute malnutrition, diarrhoea and anaemia all re-

Dr. Ahmed Al-Qoyadhi Education Editor

Hind Al-Eryani P.R & Marketing

city. As the commercial capital of Yemen, Aden presents enormous opportunity for Gulf Air to establish itself in this new market,” he added. The city has recently been included in the Yemen government’s development priorities with major plans to support the city’s trade zone, port, airport and private sector by attracting promising investments Colombo is not a new location for Gulf Air. The airline flew to the Sri Lankan capital from 1976 until March 2005. “I am glad the time has come for us to re-connect with the capital of Sri Lanka. “Besides being the country’s largest base for commerce and trade, Colombo is also a popular tourist destination with fabulous cultural attractions,” Majali said

UN warns that aid operations in northern Yemen remain drastically under-funded ported to be on the rise among both IDPs and local residents, particularly in Hajjah. Food aid, water and sanitation are also priorities.§ Since a ceasefire was struck in February, aid workers have increased their efforts to reach areas hit by the conflict, especially Sa”ada City and Malaheet, where residents, returnees and IDPs need assistance. OCHA said the security situation remains volatile, which is hampering aid workers” attempts to help locals. An IDP profiling exercise is being carried out to help aid agencies target their assistance better across the region. That exercise is expected to be completed by mid-August

Najla’a Al-Shaibani Social Editor

The Facts As They Are Abdul-Karim Mufadhal Sports Editor

Collin Stevenson Assistant Copy Editor

Ali lah Ajlan IT Editor

e-mail: info@nationalyemen.com wibsite:www.nationalyemen.com address:al-qiada st.

Jihan Anwar Staff Journalist

SOCIAL

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

National Yemen

Parent Child Relationships: Denial and Ingratitude - Parents deny their children’s rights, and abuse from childhood - Cruelty is not the correct way to raise children, nor to correct their behavior Najla’a A. al-Shaibani

The father’s largest concern is centered on providing for his household and accumulating money. The mother, on the other hand, is preoccupied with other things besides raising and observing children. She is no longer able to follow up on what’s happening within the family. This creates one model that leads to rebelliousness and disobedience of children. Other models and cases differ in form, but they produce similar consequences. Children are an important part of the family unit, and are negatively affected by problems and disruptions that may happen to the family. Too much pressure exercised on family members through imposing strict rules without explanation, discussion, or understanding the personalities of the children. Children then disobey their parents when as they become adults in retaliation. Mohammed Abdo, 21, says, “My father made me a disobedient son. Since childhood, he has beaten me and restricted my freedom. When I became a young man, he threatened to kick me out of the house. One day I came home late at 3:00 a.m. and my father did throw me out of the house without having mercy on me or trying to understand.” He goes on, “Since that day, I have never gone home. I left school about three years ago, and my life is lost. How can I ask about, or visit him today, after I became homeless because of him?!” Hussein Al-Romaim, 30, says that the cruelty of his father

hardened his heart against him. He says, “My father used to smell my mouth and set time when I could go out or come back. He used to choose my friends. Beatings and humiliation were simpler ways for him to deliver advice. I decided to be patient, so that I can now stand on my feet. Today I have a life; not exactly like the one I was wishing for though. I have a job, a wife, and I have children. To this day I have not been able to forget what my father did to me. I visit him only on special occasions and holidays. I offer him some money if he needs it. I don’t spend too much time at the house when I visit. I dash out so as not to remember the difficult and cruel days I have been through there.” Saleh Al-Raimi, 26, a university student, came to town after running away from his father. He believes that parents are the cause of their children’s disobedience. Parents, in his view, have their outdated customs and traditions that they stubbornly cling to. He says, “When I asked my father to allow me to go to the city to pursue my study, he refused and said to me, ‘Stay in the village to guard the land with me.’” He adds, “My father seemed not too concerned about my future or my study. When I tried to convince him, he threatened he would disinherit me. He said that he would disown me if I go to town. So, I decided to run to the city, now I am working in a telecommunication center and studying at the university. Until now, my father does not want to hear my voice. Likewise, I can’t stand hearing his name, especially when I hear my colleagues talking about how they have no money troubles, thanks to money they receive from their parents in the country. What makes this more painful is that my father can afford the expenses of my study. He simply refuses to. He rather

I suffer in a place where I feel like a stranger.” Mohammed Alwan was honest with us when he said, “I do not hate my parents at all, and I never disobey them. However, I’m a poor man and responsible for a family. My wife is concerned about the interest of the children. She says that the money I plan on giving to my parents is better used spending on our children. She argues for me to let my siblings assist them. She knows that my father is in need for help as he once asked me for it. She argues that my brothers earn better money than I do. For her, my children deserve all the money I get.” Search for Love Mariam, a level-2-University student, was supposed to be in level four if not for the bad treatment of her family. She said she was abused by her family, and this caused her to fall behind in her studies. She reflected on the neglect she feels, “My mother is so immersed in her own friendships and work. My father never asks about me. I wish I had parents present with me spiritually as well as physically.” Mona was crying while talking about her father’s long absence. She has not seen him since she was little. “All he cares about is money to make me live in luxury,” Mona says. “I hate to be rich and I wish I were poor, provided that my father was beside me, and I could feel his love and compassion.” Dr. Ghailan Al-Sharabi, Professor of Psychology at Sana’a University, says, “Young people at this stage have superficial views that are far from being scientific or realistic. The safety of a child’s mental health is largely dependent on their parents. A child’s personality in early years is easily influenced and susceptible to the child’s

French Embassy in Sana’a Celebrates French National Day and brotherhood—are more valuable in the world now than ever. Mr. Silva, said that Yemen and France have enjoyed deep relations since the arrival of the French people many years ago. He said that we now celebrate 40 years of excellent diplomatic relations.

The French Ambassador to Yemen Mr. Joseph Silva held a reception party to celebrate the National Day of France. The ceremony took place at the ambassador’s residence. Attending were many diplomatic missions in the Republic of Yemen, Ministers, government officials, members of the business community and French compa-

nies, media representatives, and French nationals.

The partnership of the two countries attracted French companies to invest in Yemen energy sectors. France assisted Yemen in the completion of the LNG project last autumn. Due to this project, Yemen is now a top exporter of natural gas.

The French ambassador delivered a speech to welcome his guests. He used the 14th of July celebration as a chance to highlight the development of Yemeni-French relations. He said that the values of French National Day—liberty, equality

The ambassador said that his country understand the challenges facing Yemen. France is committed, in partnership with the Friends of Yemen and the European Union, to addressing sustainable development, security, and dialogue.

Photo AMIRA AL-SHARIF

Some children witness the phenomenon of parents “disobeying” their children. They are concerned by the lack of mainstream attention to the issue despite the screams and complaints of many children.

surrounding. He says that cruelty is not the right way to modify behavior. This approach often damages children and exposes them to future underlying psychological issues that the parents may not be aware of. These issues may manifest in disobedience later on. “Family disputes often create inner conflict in children based on how they will respond. Intense pressure from parental directives may force children to choose the route of disobedience. Consequently, we have to deal with our children respectfully from the beginning of childhood. Familiarizing them with the discussion allows them a healthy avenue to express their views. This will help to keep them from rebelling.”

Youth at early stages need parents who are educated and capable of establishing healthy discussions based in sincerity and honestly, but who can still portray discipline through firmness and strength. Times have changed with this new generation. Dialogue based in understanding, forgiveness, and persuasion is an important means of modern education. The Art of Dialogue Children’s rebellion starts with the word ‘NO’. It can manifest itself in the form of harming themselves or others, or in general disobedience. To prevent this, says Dr. Abdul Hakim AlSharabi, Professor of Sociology, parents have to learn the art of dialogue and good education. He adds, “This art can be rein-

forced by media and satellite channels, and through schools’ educational curricula by infusing moral and social values in our children. Adolescents, in general, have a tendency to run to rebellion and disobedience for trivial reasons. The family plays a key role in the children’s adoption of good manners.” Obedience is a Must Islam urges children to obey parents. This is a divine matter. Disobedience has to be punished, even if means that the father or mother act in a cruel way. However, it is possible to keep from resorting to punishment if parents work to teach their children the art of dialogue so that they don’t become disobedient in the first place.

Youth are empowered through building their capacity and encouraging them to the volunteering work Sana’a, 24 July 2010 - Save the Children- Youth empowerment Project (YEP) funded by USAID support the awareness campaign for youth under the banner “aware youth” which is arranged by Life Makers foundation in Sana’a. The campaign which is launched on Saturday 24 July 2010, aims to raise the youth awareness on the danger of chewing Qat, smoking , and drugs and targets boys and girls youth between 14 – 24 age. This campaign is part of the summer activities for Save the Children and its partners in Sana’a and Ibb in which it includes many events such as arranging workshops, training course in life skills, TOT trainings , distributing posters, brochures …etc. Marwan Al-Shabani , the coordinator of YEP project in Sana’a and Ibb ensured the importance of such

events which target the vulnerable youth. “These activities aim to empower the vulnerable youth through building their capacity and raising their awareness in these issues especially they are the most involved people in such issues.” Al-Shabani stated. “ The YEP project will also fund 15 youth organizations which are YEP partners in Sana’a and Ibb and 17 small projects will be implemented by youth for three months.” He elaborated. In the same time, Shawthab foundation in its partnership with Save the Children launches on Saturday 24 July 2010 in Sana’a the training course under banner “towered to work with youth through participation”. The training aims to provide youth with skills in the youth volunteering work and how youth can play role in de-

veloping their communities through volunteering work. The training targets 40 boys and girls youth and continues for 6 days. In Sana’a , and for four days, Save the Children – Siraj for youth leadership and development project funded by USAID arranges a training course in the life skills for the youth and organizations working with youth which are partners for Siraj project with participation of 24 boys and girls youth from four governorates ( Sana’a, Aden, Ibb, and Abyan) in Al Mosafer Hotel – Sana’a. The training aims to train the participants in how to use the Siraj Toolkits of life skills trainings and how to arrange trainings for youths in their governorates using this toolkit as a step to make a positive change in the youth communities.

National Yemen

Culture

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

European plastic artists take part in Sana’a Summer Festival Jihan Anwar-NY paints: Charles Foster

What is that you like painting the most?

The 5th Annual Sana’a Summer Festival wows and surprises the public with multiple shows, exhibitions and activities. This year the symbol of the old city, Bab Al-Yemen, experiences a revolution of color. Eight artists from across the world give their own interpretation of Yemen through classic and innovative artistic techniques.

I like painting Sana’a very much. Some of my works were done from the hotel I’m staying in. This picture is from my hotel room window. The best thing is that I don’t even have to leave the room to paint. I also like painting Hadramout. I have a painting of Shebaw, which I think used to be called the “The Chicago of the Desert”. I have been reading and studying a lot about Yemen and enjoying being in here. Seems that you prefer painting buildings over people... Though I really like landscapes and architecture, I also draw people. Here’s a watercolor the palace of the Cathedral with a busy crowd in front of it. Seyoun,in Hadramout seems to be a very busy place. What about the colors you choose?

* Draft interview with Charles Foster Hall-participating artist in the Sana’a Summer Festival: Can you tell us who you are and where you’re from?

ter Hall and I’m from the London,England. I came to Yemen to paint and show my artwork. I’m having a lot of inspiration because there are so many things to paint in here.

My name is Charles Fos-

I choose these colors because they are very warm and earthy colors since everything is made out of brick. I like the reds, yellows and oranges. What style are you using in your paintings?

I paint with watercolors using a traditional British technique of paintings. It’s quite realistic and I try to make the colors harmonize as much as possible. Where did you study painting?

President Attends ‘Hadramout Celebrations’ Event this Evening and Opens the Cultural Village

His Excellency, President Ali Abdullah Saleh, together with Dr. Abu Bakr Al-Miflihi, Minister of Culture, Abdul Qadir Ali Hilal, Member of the Ministers Council, Salem Al-Khanbashi, Governor of Hadramout, and Khaled Sa’eed Al-Dini, Secretary General of Local Council in the governorate, opened the Cultural Village and its activities for the 7th Al-Baldah Tourist Festival in Al-Mukalla. His Excellency toured the Vil-

lage Suites, which lie on an area of 3000 sq/m. The village reflects the Bedouin cultural heritage that characterizes Hadramout. He learned of the diversity of crafts and popular cuisine of Hadramout. A number of pop music bands performed a number of folk dances. 13 Women handicraft associations are also participating in the Village Suites. His Excellency praised the efforts made by those in charge of

the Cultural Village, which wonderfully portrays the beauty of Hadramout. He expressed his pleasure with what he saw of the historical and cultural legacy of Hadramout. He stressed the need for preserving this heritage, for it will familiarize generations to come of the legacy left by their parents and ancestors. He will attend a formal ceremony called ‘Hadramout Celebrations’. It is to be held in the

• Travels from the USA to Turkey: Up to 25% discounts (1) on first, business and economy class system fares will be applied. • Travel from other countries to Turkey: 20% discount (1) on first and business class system fares, 10% discount (1) on economy class system fares will be applied(2) • 10kg excess luggage allowance (3) will be issued. • No rebooking penalty if the rebooking is required because of medical complications(4) • Maximum 2 companions

traveling with the patient are entitled for the same discounts and rights. Procedures: Passengers travelling for medical purposes are required to present an acceptance letter made by receiving Health Care Establishment who signed the protocol with Turkish Airlines. (Patients travelling from the USA are also allowed for the discount by presenting a referral letter from a Health Care Establishment in the USA). Discounts are only applied at Turkish Airlines offices unless

off I went. I hope we can show these works in England and show people a little bit about Yemen so they get to see what wonderful country Yemen is

As Al-Baldah 7th Tourist Festival Continues, the National Band of Folk Arts Performs Folk Songs and Dances in Khor Al-Mukalla,

Shows Square this evening. The opening ceremony was attended by the governorates secretary generals, Engineer Abdullah Ahmed Buqshan, chairman of Bait Al-Khibrah Foundation (organizer of the festival), Engineer Mohammed Badr Ba Salmah, members of local councils and executive offices, businessmen and cultural and social figures, and a gathering of citizens.

Turkish Airlines Supports Medical Tourism The medical tourism market in the world has been rapidly growing in recent years. In order to increase share of Turkish Health Care establishments in the market and support national economy, Turkish Airlines has prepared a support package for Health Care Establishments who invest in medical tourism. Protocols have already been signed with majority of health care establishments in Medical Tourism. The package offers special discounts and incentives for those who come to Turkey for medical treatment purposes.

Most of my art studies were conducted in Paris, after studying microbiology. I’ve always wanted to paint, but microbiology interested me during University. I after that I wanted to travel…I wanted to pain…so

otherwise specified. (1) Discounts cannot be combined with other discounts. No discounts on promotional fares. No discount for stretcher. (2) Flights must be TK only. Code share flights are not included. (3) Piece concept (such as USA to Turkey): 2Pc, 32Kg per piece maximum luggage allowance on Turkish Airlines operated flights only. (4) Passengers will be charged if upgrade is necessary or other fees are required

The National Band of Folk Art performed a number of folk songs and dances as part of the al-Baldah 7th Tourist Festival. They arrive from the capital Sana’a and are led by Mr. Ali Al-Mohammadi

ture; Sa’eed Al-Shaddadi, the General Coordinator of the activities of Tarim (capital of Islamic culture in 2010); and Emad Addini, Head of the Information Committee of AlBaldah Tourist Festival.

The band entertained the attendees with traditional tunes played on drums and flutes. Most famous of the dances performed include the Yafe’ Dance, Al-Baidhani Dance, AlHarazi Flute, and Sa’ada Folk Dance.

The Entertainment City for Recreational Games was full of children and families. Every evening at the Children’s Theater of Balfaqih Cultural Center there, games, cultural competitions, prizes, and shows by the Egyptian Circus Band and Al-Makhater Band are performed.

Singers Abdullah Makhrag, Salmin Ramadan and Mohammed Saleh Bin Hameed performed masterpieces of the Hadrami lyrical art, which won applause from the large audiences in the theater of Khor AlMukalla. The event was attended by Ahmed Salim bin Dowais, Deputy Manager of the Executive Bureau of the Tarim Activities Capital of Islamic Cul-

Upcoming events are dances from Al-Sahel that begin Wednesday in front of the General Post Administration in AlMukalla and end at Al-Dallah traffic circle. The Culture Office of Wadi Hadramout is holding an evening concert by a number of the brightest singers of Al-Wadi in Khor al-Mukalla.

BUSINESS

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

National Yemen

Preparations for the Draft Law Targeting Money Laundering to be Submitted to the Parliament for Approval Jordan consultants presented an integrated system for Yemen to establish a stock market. Yemen takes into account the experiences of neighboring countries. Mr. Abbas Ahmed Al-Basha, Chairman of the Project Unit of the Stock Market, speaks to National Yemen on the importance of implementing a stock market in Yemen quickly. He spoke of its importance in mobilizing resources for investing in economically feasible projects. The stock market is vital for allowing investors to clearly assess investment projects and make sound decisions based in full transparency and disclosure made possible by the requirements of participation in the stock market. He adds, “In order to get to this stage of transparency, there are many regulatory and legislative reforms that must be undertaken.” The most important is producing the Securities Act, and establishing key institutions of the market, he added. What are the latest developments for establish a stock market in our country? The latest important development was a meeting of the Supreme Supervisory Committee (SSC) under the chairmanship of the Minister of Finance and presence of the Minister of Legal Affairs, the Minister of Industry and Trade represented by Dr. Taha Al-Fusaiyl, Governor of the Central Bank, the Minister of Communications, the Chairman of the General Authority for Investment, and the

chairman of the Banks Assembly last June. During this meeting a draft republican decision for establishing the Securities Commission has been ratified as an organizational, supervisory and legislative authority to finalize the structure for establishing the stock market. Jordanian experts assisted in the meeting. Previously, the government’s attempt to create a stock market was conducted through forming committees or units. This was problematic, for as soon as there was a shuffle in government, progress would stop. In this meeting, we aimed to create a specific institutional structure and to implement the plan of establishing the market within this institutional framework to maintain continuity and sustainability. The legislation aspect is vital for establishing the market. What have you reached so far in the law? And has it been submitted to the Parliament for approval? In 2002, the Technical Committee, headed by Mr. Ahmed Al-Khawi, reached an agreement with a Canadian consulting firm for the formulation of the Securities Act in our country. They translated all relevant laws and similar laws in the Arab region to arrive at a draft Securities Act in 2002. Unfor-

tunately, the committee’s work stopped for various reasons.

privatizing some public sector institutions.

operation with other countries?

A long time passed until the issue was reactivated in 2007 with the amendment of many laws including the commercial act, investment law, the companies’ law, and the tax law. We hope to follow suit with the Securities Act.

Those recommendations were taken into account, and we are now finalizing the preparation of a draft law to be submitted to the Parliament for discussion and approval. Perhaps it will take some time to produce the law in its final form into existence.

We have reached a joint memorandum of understanding with Jordan Securities Commission, a governmental entity affiliated with the Jordanian Ministers Council, and a representative of the other Jordanian stock market institutions

Mr. Jalal Yaqoob, Deputy of Foreign Affairs Sector, moved this issue forward by communicating with the non-profit U.S. consulting firm Financial Services Volunteers Corps. The firm’s membership includes CEO’s and business leaders that volunteer their time. They visited our country in March 2009 and met with all the parties represented in the SSC, the Society of Accountants, and other stakeholders in stock market formation. They provided a report on the steps to be completed by the government. They established a schedule and key tasks that must be achieved. Some of these tasks include finalizing a draft Securities Act, reviewing and amending relevant laws, establishing key institutions for monitoring and supervising the securities and stock market. Additionally they called for establishing norms around circulation and depositing of money, clearing and settlement, and establishing the currency systems that will be the backbone of the market’s success. Lastly, they called for

British Embassy Sana’a

Vacancy: LE II Estate Manager A full time post is now available in the British Embassy, Management Section, to fill the post of Estate Manager and to work as part of a busy team managing the day to day running of the Embassy and its properties. The post involves:     

  

Management of all aspects of the official estate – recommendations on housing allocation to Post Management Committee. March in/March outs, inventories, rolling programme of furniture replacement, disposal of surplus stores. The incumbent will, as Chairperson of the Post Housing Committee, be responsible for allocating all residential properties, locating new properties and overseeing the maintenance of both domestic and office accommodation. Liaise with staff in respect of the purchase of furniture as part of the rolling programme of furniture replacement. Co-ordinate and oversee the disposal of surplus furniture ensuring that all staff have the opportunity to view and bid for any sale items Co-ordinate all March ins and March outs, ensuring sufficient time between occupants to allow for refurbishment of the property. Oversee and provide budgetary information to the Head of Corporate Services in respect of 26 budgets including profiling expenditure and ensuring value for money on all purchases. Liasing with Partners Across Government to ensure combined invoices are properly authorised and paid on time. Together with the other Management Officers provide cover for the Head of Corporate Services during their absence from Post and assume budgetary responsibility to that officer’s financial limits. Act as cheque signatory for any cheques issued by the accountant for invoices not approved by the officer. Line management of 3 LE officers.

Required Education & Qualification:    

Minimum of four years of management experience. Bachelor Degree in an equivalent field. Excellent command of written and spoken English. Good IT skills (Microsoft packages) and sound knowledge of IT systems.

Is the economic situation in our country presently ready to create a stock market? As I said, the market cannot be initiated before approving the Securities Act, because it is this law will govern all the activities and ensure the rights of all participants: investors, companies and brokerage firms, and others in the market. Implementation may be hampered for two primary reasons: Regulatory legislative and judiciary framework must be completed, and we must establish corporate norms for companies such as clear accounting criteria and sound corporate governance, as well as creating a monitoring agency that will hold firms accountable to these norms. We are working on all these areas in tandem to expedite the process. Can you tell us about Jordan’s assistance? Where did you reach in your work with the team? Is there similar co-

The agreement offers an integrated and comprehensive plan for establishing an entire system, much like establishing a banking sector from scratch. This includes establishing regulatory, supervisory, legal, training, awareness, rehabilitation entities and mechanisms. Before we went to Jordan, we had made a number of visits to the Emirates stock market and securities institutions and met officials in Dubai Financial Market, the Securities and Commodities Commission, and Abu Dhabi stock market. They familiarized us with their experience and expertise in this area. We went to Jordan due to our distinguished bilateral relations, and their sincere intention to offer assistance to us through an integrated system. The draft republican decision for establishing the Securities Commission was sent to a number of countries and organizations such as Syria, the Arab Monetary Fund, and the U.S Financial Services Volunteer Corps. These are channels of

Mr. Abbas Ahmed Al-Basha

communication that we hope to continue to use for technical support. We always intend to learn best practices from experiments in other countries. How important are the financial intermediation corporations in creating a stock market? And how many of these companies are there presently in our country? The financial intermediary corporations and companies are important and fundamental component of the activities of the capital market. They are the link between investors and companies. Therefore, they must have standards in terms of capital and professionalism. The securities commission is the entity that will set up the regulatory framework for capital intermediaries. Firms working in our country are the Arab Capital Brokers, the Financial Experts Company, and the International Bank of Yemen through trading, buying and selling stock, and currency speculation ‘Forex’. The activity of financial intermediaries need to be organized by a set of criteria and conditions to protect the rights of investors.

National Yemen

POLITICS

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

The General Peoples Conference (GPC) and the Joint Meeting Parties (JMP) Reach New Agreement The recent accord, signed by the GPC and JMP early last week, gained broad support by the representatives of political parties, organizations, as well as intellectuals and academics concerned with internal politics. Abdul-Hamid Al-Hejazi They described the accord as a new phase of national reconciliation that moves overall development and democracy in the right direction.

spokesman of the JMP, said, “The agreement signed by the JMP and the ruling party, though late, is a positive step in the right direction, establishing the foundations for a political breakthrough necessary to create an appropriate atmosphere. It creates mechanisms for eventually implement the agreement of February 2009, particularly as it coincided with the release of a number of detainees.”

Striking such a deal was made especially difficult do to a toxic political climate caused by the war of Sa’ada, the separatist movement in some sourthern governorates, the economic crisis, rises in costs of living, and the the consequences all these issues pose for Yemenis at various levels in society.

He added, “The agreement emphasizes opening opportunities for political parties, and civil society organizations to discuss the constitutional amendments necessary for improving the political and electoral systems—including a quota.

President Ali Abdullah Saleh described the agreement as a positive step towards a political breakthrough. In his speech, he called on all sides to abstain from trivial matters in pursuit of broader cooperation. This country, he said, belongs to all people and not just ruling authorities or the opposition. Yemen has room for all peoples and it is everyone’s responsibility that we engage in productive dialogues. He called for a halt

Dr. Abdul-Wahab Mahmoud,

to harsh media campaigns. He added, “Under no circumstances must anyone repudiate what we have agreed upon, neither the opposition nor the authority.” He called on all parties to work to calm anxieties of the street and to reassure people of their progress. Past years have shown that such fear and political conflict restrained investment and reduced tourism He pointed out that in the case that items agreed upon are implemented, he is ready to form a national government inclusive of all political factions. He intends to move forward with holding parliamentary elections on time. Dr. Abdul-Wahab Mahmoud, the JMP representative, hoped that the coming period would witness trust and cooperation. Yemen needs them both to accomplish important tasks and to begin to reunite all Yemenis. He stressed that the JMP will hold to the February agreement and will implement all of its agreed-upon items. Abdul-Karim al-Iryani, the Second Deputy of the President of the GPC said that the GPC and JMP agreed on the operational mechanism of the first item of the February agreement, which states to give opportunity to the political parties, organizations and civil society organizations to discuss the constitutional amendments necessary for improving the political and electoral systems, including the Quota. He added that it was agreed to form a joint committee for the National Dialogue

The Houthis expressed satisfaction and support for the agreement signed by the JMP and GPC, considering that it “will create serious steps for a comprehensive dialogue that does not exclude anyone.”

Dr. Ahmed Obaid Bin Daghr

Yahya Ali Al-Ra’ee

Abdul-Karim al-Iryani

consisting of 200 members divided equally between the ruling party and the JMP.

tance of holding parliamentary elections on schedule on 27 April 2011.

day’s accord is the mechanism by which we will implement the historic February agreement”.

In response to the JMP’s call to postpone parliamentary elections scheduled for next April, Al-Iryani said, “Constitutionally, the elections are not to be postponed. However, implementation of the 2nd and 3rd items of the February agreement is subject to the political parties represented in the Parliament. These two items require discussion of and legalizing constitutional amendments for the electoral law. They also call for restructuring the Supreme Board of Elections and Referendum.

Yahya Ali Al-Ra’ee, Chairman of the Parliament, praised GPC’s signing of the joint minutes for implementing the February 2009 Agreement. AlRa’ee said, “We find it an occasion to congratulate the parties on this historical national political event and to welcome the results. We consider it a new candle lit by His Excellency the President in the process of communication for national development.

Dr. Abdul Rahman Ba Fadhl, Head of the parliamentary bloc of the Yemeni Reform Party, said, “I really want to congratulate the Yemeni people on this breakthrough because it gives people who are unsure of Yemen’s future some hope. Today we thank Allah for allowing us to reach a consensus. After completing the dialogue a national government is to be formed, whose sole mission is to supervise the general elections.”

The National Democratic Coalition parties (NDC) blessed the accord signed between the GPC and JMP to implement the February agreement under the auspices and supervision of President Ali Abdullah Saleh, President of the Republic. They considered the timing of the signing as a proof of the President’s wisdom, statesmanship and eagerness to unite political parties in Yemen. This was his approach since he was elected president on 17th July, 1978. They expressed hope that the agreement signed between the JMP and GPC would be a means to end the political discord and differences, and will bring a new beginning for action to address the challenges facing the country. The NDC parties called on everyone to quickly set a specific schedule putting important items for discussion on the agenda. They hope to avoid wasting time as last year. They also stressed the impor-

Al-Ra’ee called on all political forces to feel their national and historic responsibility, to promote trust and cooperation among themselves, and to take subsequent steps to achieve their task. He also called them to value time and patience, taking into account the nature of the challenges facing the country. He asked for the democratic maturity required for action. A number of politicians described the agreement as a positive step that will eventually resolve all the problems and challenges facing the country. They considered this meeting as a return to the right path. Dr. Ahmed Obaid Bin Daghr, Assistant Secretary-General of the GPC for Thought, Culture and Information Sector says, “We, in the GPC, hope that this signature will be a positive step toward a political breakthrough. This agreement is an achievement for the national movement and democratic governance in the country.” He went on to say that “there is no doubt that to-

He extends gratitude to the President, although he holds reservations about the President’s belief that the elections are to be held on time. He views such a feat as impossible. “Certainly the country can enter a new phase because everyone’s participation will give a strong impetus for a strong Yemen. Insha Allah there will be a share for all, violence and bloodshed will stop, and dialogue will replace bullets. Now after signing the agreement, dialogue will begin with 200 members (100 from the GPC and 100 from the opposition)”. He adds, “As for the people suffering from high prices, unemployment, corruption, and poverty, there is no solution but to form a national government. I’ll also return to the parliament after a three month where I protested the lack of movement on this agreement”. Abdullah S’ad Al-Kamel, Head of the JMP Executive Committee and Secretary of the

Dr. Abdul Rahman Ba Fadhl

B’aath Arab Socialist Party Branch in Ibb Governorate, says, “It is a long-awaited, positive move to resolve all the problems. The agreement culminates in victories on the basis of no victor and no loser. What is important is the supreme wellbeing of the country. We, in the opposition, will apply what we have agreed upon because it is everyone’s demand.” Abdul Hafez Al-Faqih, Head of the JMP in Taiz governorate, said, “On behalf of the JMP in Taiz governorate, we applaud this agreement and we hope that there are good intentions and credibility in all parties to implement what has been agreed upon. The country can hardly take any political subterfuge from any party.” Awadh Abdullah Hatem, Deputy Governor of Hadramout governorate, said, “Signing the agreement is an important beginning for wider prospects of constructive dialogue which must be focused on the best interest of the country. Various dialogue committees will emerge on the basis of constitutional changes. There is no doubt that Ali Abdullah Saleh, president and patron of these dialogues, is the one to whom this national initiative is attributed in the first place”. He adds, “President Saleh is the head of the nation as a whole and not just head of the GPC. We call on everyone to bury the past with all its negative effects, and open a new page for exercising democracy.” Dr. Mohammed Saleh, Head of the Executive Board and

A statement issued by the Information Office of AbdulMalek Al-Houthi, said that terminating the conditions and remnants of the war in the provinces of Sa’ada, Amran and AlJawf is among the basic pillars for normalizing the political situation there. He emphasized the need to releasing political detainees without delay or exception in order to save them and their families more unnecessary suffering. The agreement consists of ten points, signed on behalf of the ruling party by Dr. Abdul-Karim Al-Iryani, the Second Vicepresident of the GPC, and on behalf of the JMP by Dr. AbdulWahab Mahmoud, SecretaryGeneral of the Ba’ath Arab Socialist Party. It opens opportunities for political parties and civil society organizations to discuss constitutional amendments necessary for improving the political and electoral systems. The agreement provides for the parties to form a joint committee to prepare for the dialogue. It provides for consultations with other political parties, forces, and civil society organizations wishing to join the national dialogue must be enacted without exceptions. The agreement also authorizes the Joint Committee for Preparation for the National Dialogue to prepare an agenda and define the regulations governing the dialogue. All decisions will be made on the basis of consensus, which shall be binding for all, provided that the committee’s work is open and transparent. The recent agreement came as a result of internal, regional and international efforts including those of the European Union and the United States. They are actively pushing towards holding elections and resolving the current political crises

BUSINESS

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

Yemen’s Foreign Exchange Reserve Falls to 5.918 Billion Dollars, Government Share of Crude Oil Rises to 1.131 billion dollars from January to May 2010

National Yemen

Prices with the Devaluation of Local Currency against the Dollar

The foreign assets of the Central Bank of Yemen have fallen dramatically in May to 5.918 billion riyals, covering 7.9 months of imports, compared with 6.134 billion dollars from last month, covering 8.2 months of imports. This significant decline in foreign assets is largely seen as due to the Central Bank’s interventions in the market. Faoud al-Kadi Data suggests that the Central Bank has pumped more than 900 million U.S. dollars into the market this year to increase liquidity in meeting the needs of banks and foreign currency exchanges Economic experts have warned that continued interventions of the Central Bank will lead to a huge decline in reserves, which affects the Yemeni economy as a whole. The decline in reserves was associated with a decrease in the total budget of the Central Bank in May by 4.8 billion riyals. A recent report issued by the Central Bank indicated that the government share of crude oil during last May had reached 226 million dollars compared with 239.7 million dollars in April this year. Thus, the government’s share of total oil exports from January through May of 2010 reached 14.46 million barrels at a value of 131 million dollars (average price per barrel USD 78). The government’s share during January to May in 2009 reached 10.16 million barrels worth 483 million dollars (average price per barrel 47 dollars). The statistics indicate that the domestic consumption from January to May this year reached 8.65 million barrels, compared with a larger domestic consumption in 2009 which reached 11.59 million barrels.

‘

The statistics indicate that the domestic consumption from January to May this year reached 8.65 million barrels, compared with a larger domestic consumption in 2009 which reached 11.59 million barrels.

Economist attributed the past two week’s relatively stable prices to the stability of the dollar exchange rate, which held near 226 riyals a dollar for nearly a month. The decline in the domestic amount of oil is due to recent rationalization policies adopted by the government, as reduction in the oil share, and the choice among some citizens to use public transportation instead of private transportation due to increased fuel prices. These prices have risen do to the gradual lifting of oil subsidies in the beginning of this year. The report pointed to the 34 billion riyals rise in consolidated balance sheets of commercial and Islamic banks at the end of May this year, from 1.9% up to 1.807 trillion riyals. This is compared to an increase of 16.5 billion riyals from the previous month. The total consolidated balance sheet of commercial and Islamic banks was 1.573 trillion riyals at the end of 2009.

However, they have predicted a rise in the markets by the end of this month due to local currency devaluation. This devaluation is largely due to traders’ demands for currency when catering for the needs of Ramadan imported from abroad in hard currency. A recent report issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce shows that steel prices have been stable at an average of 45,000 per metric ton, while timber prices declined slightly. The price of Malaysian timber is 83,615 per metric ton while the price of a metric ton of Malaysian timber declined from 80,170 to 79,750 by 0. 5%. Cement prices have not undergone any changes. At the end of the 2nd week of this month, price indexes sig-

naled a variation in the prices of imported and local foodstuffs in the local market, wholesale and retail. The average prices of retail wheat sales in private sector shops rose by 0.4% for Australian wheat. US wheat prices held stable. Overall, wheat retail prices have been oscillating at variable rates ranging from 0.1% to 2.1% for the previous week. Rice prices kept at the recorded levels and have not undergone any changes, whereas average sugar prices have risen by roughly 2.5%. Some milk prices increased by 0.7% and 1%, while others prices saw a decrease of approximately 0.3%. Retail prices of oil and ghee manufactured locally have been stable generally. Some

varieties of Ghee, however, have increased slightly. World price indexes have risen in most of sales. The American soft white wheat rose by 4.5%, $184 per ton, and American hard red wheat to $258 per ton at the last point of sale in the ports of Yemen. The cost of freight at $3 dollars to $49 per ton and the total estimate cost at ports of Yemen rose slightly by 2.1%, 5 to $233 dollars per ton. World prices of rice have declined in average. Thai rice prices have fallen by $1 per ton, while other types of rice have maintained average prices during the same period. World powdered milk prices have risen by about 2.6%, $75 per ton.

UAE’s Investment Projects in Yemen Rise to 55

The General Authority for Investment (GAI) recorded two additional UAE projects in the provinces of Al-Maharah and Hadramout at a total cost of 159,650 riyals. These projects bring total UAE investments in Yemen to 55 investment projects at a total cost of more than 55 billion riyals. Such projects include those in the industrial, service and tourism sectors. Most of these projects are focused in the provinces of Hadramout, Aden and the Capital Secretariat Sana’a. Al-Attar pointed out that there were 34 UAE investment projects at a total cost of 130,953,840 in Yemen in 2009. The Chairman of the GAI said that foreign investment capital

is 14.59% of the total projects recorded during the past year. The value of fixed assets 15,066,699 riyals. “There were 14 gulf investments projects amounting to 113,571,878 riyals in 2009. This is an increase of 86% from 2008 when Gulf investment reached about 60,780,000 ri-

yals.” He said the volume of all Arab investments totaled 130,444,000, up to 99.83% of the total foreign investment capital recorded in the GAI in 2009. Investment from European and East Asian nations reached approximately 0.17%. Arab investment is composed

of Qatari project amounting to 105,497,911 riyals, seven Saudi projects totaling 4,332,222,000, four Kuwaiti costing 3,582,095,000, and two Emirati projects at a cost of 159,650,000.

5,379,675 riyals, one Italian project equaling 151,206,000, two Lebanese projects amounting to 138,355,000 riyals, and one project from Holland equaling 122,126,000 riyals.

Other foreign investments include four Iraqi projects totaling 11,229,509 riyals, one Libyan project at a cost of

Additionally, there are three recorded Turkish projects at 93,072,000 riyals, two Jordanians projects at 76,141,000 ri-

yals, an Iranian project worth 55,041,000 riyals, a Chinese project worth 40,871,000 riyals, and an Egyptian project amounting to 28,801,000 riyals. A Malaysian project was also recorded at 27,130,000 riyals, an Indian project worth 20,035,000 riyals, and a Syrian project worth 20,000,000 riyals

National Yemen International Courses for Table Tennis Coaches Put our Country in a Critical Situation

SPORT

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

4th Annual President’s Equestrian Championship Concludes Abdul-Karim Mufadhal The 4th Annual Republic President’s Championship for Horsemanship for three age groups concluded last weekend with the presence of Vice President Abdu Rabu Mansour Hadi at Al-Wahdah Field for Horsemanship in the Military College in Sana’a. The tournament for horsemanship and camels was held from the 7th to 20th of July and included 128 participating horsemen. A At the closing ceremony, 70 young men performed a musical operetta and a parade under the title ‘Al-Asayel’.

the Sports Page of National Yemen newspaper has learned that the Egyptian lecturer of the World Course for Table Tennis, Ahmed Al-Dolitly expressed strong dissatisfaction at the organizational shortcomings of the course organized by the Yemen Olympic Committee (YOC), the Table Tennis Association (TTA) and the Women Sport Association (WSA). The shortcomings showed in not receiving the Egyptian lecturer at Sana’a International Airport and a lack of quorum for the course in terms of the number of participants, 16 participants, which is contrary to the regulations of International Courses sponsored and supported by the International Olympic Solidarity. The regulations specify the number of participants between 20 to 25 participants. Also, some evening classes were not held due to absence of the supervisors and students and the lack of accommodation for young female participants from Aden governorate and the lack of the unified costumes for the participants. All these shortcomings put in the report of the International lecturer, which will put our country in unenviable situation with the International Olympic Committee that refused to increase the number of international courses for our country due to violation of regulations. To familiarize the reader and officials with the facts on who causes such shortcomings, the newspaper has made investigations with the relevant authorities. Mohammed Al-Ahjori, Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee, said that the Olympic Solidarity grants the Yemen Olympic Committee 2 to 3 courses a year for sports associations, international training every 6 years. So, we are keen to organize well for those courses, especially in terms of the number of participants so that we can convince the Olympic Solidarity to increase the number of courses. Unfortunately, the international course for trainers of table tennis that was held last week was associated with some defects from the NOC, TTA and WSA and the lack of quorum of participants in the course due to the absence of coordination between the three parties. He pointed to the loss of 4 seats in the course out of the 20 seats will put our country in an embarrassing situation with the International

Olympic Solidarity and we will be held responsible. AlAhjori apologized in person to course lecturer for not receiving him at the airport upon arrival, due to the circumstances that accompanied the date and type of the flight to Sana’a. Mr. Mohamed Al-Mahbashi, Assistant Secretary-General of the association and General Supervisor of the course held the YOC responsible for the absence of quorum for the participants. The YOC is responsible for attending of 20 participants, four of whom were absent due to harsh conditions. If you ask us to provide 25 students, only 21 of them will attend. He also stressed that receiving of the lecturer and accommodating the female participants from Aden is the Olympic Committee responsibility, as agreed with the Olympic Committee. Yet, we were surprised at not receiving the lecturer at the airport and also the non-provision of accommodation for the female participants from Aden in the Olympic Center. We were forced to accommodate them in private hotels. We were also surprised at the failure to provide unified costumes to the participants and lack of media coverage for the course except after 3 days have passed. He denied rumors about his absence in supervising the course. Al-Mahbashi added that the Yemeni TTA has organized 2 years ago a similar international course for the same Egyptian lecturer and expert in the game. That course was well-organized for according to the lecturer’s testimony, and praise of the International Tennis Association. The lecturer published that on his website and 25 participants attended that course from different governorates of the Republic. One female participant in the course said that she was depressed at and bored with the International course for the first time. She said that she was surprised by being accommodated outside the Olympic Center and also not to hold most of the practicum lectures in the afternoon due to the absence of participants and supervisors because of their preoccupation with chewing Qat. She also said that the female supervisor apologized for not attending the course because due to her preference to participate in the activities of the Summer Center of Can’aan Society.

In the final competition for high competence and skill, jockey Mohammed Al-Qamli from Sheikh Abdullah Bin Hussein Al-Ahmar Stud won the ti-

tle. Finishing as runners-up was jockey Mohammed AlKhawi from the Guards Stud. Following the closing ceremony, the Vice President, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Hamoud Obad, and the Chairman of the Horsemanship and Camels Association, Sheikh Hashed Al-Ahmar, honored the jockeys who won the tournament. The winners are as follows: Adult Category : Hurdling - 1st Place: Jockey Jamal Al-Tawil – Special Guards - Horse Al-Ameerah (Princess) - 2nd Place: Jockey Mohamed Al-Raymi – Military College – Horse Al-Ghallab (Victor) - 3rd Place: Jockey Ibrahim Al-Ghazali - Sheikh Al-

Ahmar Stud - Horse Najmat Saba (Sheba Star) Children’s Category: Hurdling - 1st Place: Jockey Amjad Mohammed Shadhan - Police College - 2nd Place: Jockey Mohamed Al-Radhi - Sheikh Al-Ahmar Stud - 3rd Place: Jockey Majid Mogaide’ – Military College Junior Category: Hurdling - 1st Place: Jockey Munther

Al-Dubba - Military College - 2nd Place: Jockey Omar alZubaidi – Special Guards - 3rd place: Jockey Anas AlMatari Capture the Pegs - 1st Place: Jockey Murad AlSharabi - Sheikh Al-Ahmar Stud - 2nd Place: Jockey Mohamed Sevenfold - Police College. - 3rd place: Jockey Hamzah Al-Dhobhani

ness in these issues especially they are the most involved people in such issues.” Al-Shabani stated. “ The YEP project will also fund 15 youth organizations which are YEP partners in Sana’a and Ibb and 17 small projects will be implemented by youth for three months.” He elaborated. In the same time, Shawthab foundation in its partnership with Save the Children launches on Saturday 24 July 2010 in Sana’a the training course under banner “towered to work with youth through participation”. The training aims to provide youth with skills in the youth volunteering work and how youth can play role in developing their communities through volunteering work. The training targets 40 boys and girls youth and continues for 6 days. In Sana’a , and for four days, Save the Children – Siraj for youth leadership and develop-

ment project funded by USAID arranges a training course in the life skills for the youth and organizations working with youth which are partners for Siraj project with participation of 24 boys and girls youth from four governorates ( Sana’a, Aden, Ibb, and Abyan) in Al Mosafer Hotel – Sana’a. The training aims to train the participants in how to use the Siraj Toolkits of life skills trainings and how to arrange trainings for youths in

their governorates using this toolkit as a step to make a positive change in the youth communities. Save the Children works in partnership with Ministry of Sport and Youth towards the protection, fulfillment and respect for all young people’s right to participation in decisions and mainly Youth empowerment that affect their lives.

World Bank launches the Education Quality Improvement Project The World Bank, together with Yemen government officials and doctors, launched last week a report on education quality improvement in Yemen. Mr. Abdulkarim Al-Arhabi, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Planning and International Cooperation spoke of the importance of the project to develop the current educational process. Al-Arhabi said that the program involves collaboration between the World Bank and the Yemeni Government, and it aims to build an integrated vision for the education sector.

man Development Department said that the informative ceremony was to mark a turning point for change in the educational system. “Yemen faces many challenges. The resources are scarce, so Yemen needs to be very clear about the strategies and priorities for its future, as well as the role of the World Bank to supports it”. The outcome of this effort will be a vision and strategy for the next 10 years. It will build a strong framework for education development policy, and it will assist donors in how to most effectively mobilize resources.

Al-Arhabi said the Government will not be able to deal with all issues without the collaboration of the private sector. Comparison between Yemen and other countries shows that at least 40,000 more schools need to be built in the country. Such a goal is too demanding on the government alone.

The World Bank supported six educational strategies, said Ezzine. The new action-plan was based upon the statistics, surveys and feedbacks collected in during a two year period. Some of the data revealed alarming facts about the disparities in education levels—especially at the district level.

Dr. Mourad Ezzine, representative of the World Bank Hu-

Researches highlighted the fact that students who are either

poor, live in rural areas, or are female are most likely to never enroll in schools or drop out early. The difference in female enrollment for the various governorates is quite substantial: Sana’a 85%- Saadah 32%. The most pressing and urgent action items can be summarized as follows: Setting long-term goals called for in the National Basic Education Development Strategy( NBEDS); recognizing the importance of a quality-oriented early education; and en-

suring timely distribution of academic texts and materials. The ceremony took place at Sheba Hotel. Attending was Dr. Abdul-Salam Al-Joufy, Minister for Education; Dr. Ibrahim Hugary, Minister of Technical Education and Vocational Training; and Dr.Mohammed M. Mutaher , Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Also attending were representatives from academia and doctors

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

National Yemen

REPORT

Yemeni Center for Strategic Studies 2009 Report Addressed Political, Economic, Social, and Security Developments The Yemeni Center for Strategic Studies (YCSS) has launched its 2009 Yemeni Strategic Report 2009. The report, issued by the center annually, deals with a number of political, economic, social and security developments in Yemen. The report reviewed the dialogue between the government and opposition parties. It analyzes the exacerbated differences between these parties, and how they view each other. It also addressed the establishment of the Consultative Meeting and the draft vision of national salvation. Political Report Domestic Politics —The report characterizes the relations between state and opposition parties as having a high degree of mistrust. It cites a lack of institutional frameworks for productive dialogue. It claims that these entities agreed but one time this past year—on postponing the elections. Rather than ameliorate the crisis, the agreement aggravated conflicts. It did not address tangible issues, or establish mechanisms to be followed. The report indicates that the gap between the ruling party and the opposition continues to widen and it is unlikely that this gap will be narrowed for several reasons. The government is unable to offer palatable policy options that the opposition can accept. The ruling party has been reluctant to cede its decades long control of all levels of government in the so-called “partnership in power and wealth” decision-making. The report indicates the ruling party was attempting to achieve its objectives and attain legitimacy in elections by allowing the opposition to take part. To obtain the opposition’s consent over constitutional amendments among other priorities of the PGC, they attempted to absorb the opposition into the political system. The reports that key events of the past year shaped the current political relationship between the two parties.

Yemeni-American Relations—The report says there is an unbalanced security cooperation between Yemen and the United States. International attention towards Yemeni coasts and marine security in the Gulf of Aden has expanded. However, political cooperation between Sana’a and Washington has witnessed a notable decline in regard to U.S interest in supporting democratic and human rights development in Yemen. US attention has focused on security and military issues. The US, instead, depends solely on the efforts of the Democratic Institute for International Affairs to promote democratic governance. Security Report Sa’ada War –The report said that the 6th war of Sa’ada was one of the fiercest armed hostilities in Yemen’s recent history. The report pointed out that the Houthis misread the psychological changes that have occurred in the public’s attitude toward the events of Sa’ada. They have a relatively low level of public sympathy now. Their threat to expand the conflict to other provinces elicited a fierce response from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Southern Rebellion Movement — The report discounts any breakthrough in the security standoff for two reasons. The government will refuse to allow secession, as it views this as a

threat to sovereignty. The tactics of the South have also left it unable to achieve success. One of the leading strengths of the rebellion movement, according to the report, is that the authority does not have a sound national strategy to correct the structural imbalances in the country and to confront and resolve the problems and crises in general. Al-Qaeda Terrorist Organization—The report claims the organization was relatively successful in rebuilding its ranks, strengthening its presence in Yemen, and developing its operational and tactical capabilities. In the beginning of the year both the organization’s branches in Yemen and Saudi Arabia merged into a single entity ‘Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula’. Its activities were more focused in the peripheral regions, especially in southern and eastern provinces. The presence of Al-Qaeda members in these geographical areas makes them close to oil production facilities and exportation centers in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. This aroused concerns in Washington, being the first enemy of the organization and the first beneficiary of the oil fields in the Arabian Peninsula. As for the repercussions of and reactions to the organization’s activity locally, the Yemeni government escalated counter procedures against al-Qaeda. In the period from December 17th 2009 to March 20th, 2010 the

government launched approximately 40 air raids on the organization’s targets, killing dozens of al-Qaeda members. The Government also strengthened its efforts to win the loyalty of the tribal areas by different means.

tion Council is still fragile. It stressed the need to restructure the state’s general budget. The report remarked that the Tax Laws—the policies and conventions governing the action of the Ministry of Oil—must be reviewed.

Economic Report

Social and Cultural Report

The budget made high expectations of high potential growth rate in the actual GDP during 2009 of 9.1%, but the result was disappointing as the growth rate did not exceed 4.6%. The report pointed out that when the government assessed the draft general budget for 2009, it was not realistic in estimating each of the public expenditures and revenues.

Corruption—The report points to many causes of corruption including poverty, the public’s lack of knowledge of their rights, non-compliance with the principle of separation between the three authorities, and the weak oversight mechanisms systems in state governance.

The report listed a series of observations on the management of the State’s budget and the extent of its consistency with the objectives of economic and social development in Yemen, including the government’s decision to reduce most public expenditures, except salaries and wages, by 50%. The report said that the private sector suffers from increasing constraints and challenges, preventing it from developing fully. Most of those problems are caused mostly by the official authorities. The government has failed to create an attractive environment for investment. The report pointed out that the economic partnership between Yemen and the Gulf Coopera-

Other causes include lack of punitive measures and consequence for individuals engaged in corruption, low public sector salaries, absence of work rules, absence of freedom of information, and the weak role of civil society in monitoring corruption. The report assesses that the National Supreme Anti-Corruption Authority (NSAC) remains inefficient and did not achieve any real success. Crime—The report stated that harassment crimes increased by 2.21% during the first half of 2009. Pick-pocketing crimes decreased by 0.55% during the first half of last year. Rape crimes recorded an increase by 9 crimes. The number of those convicted of rape reached 113 males and one female. Theft crimes fell during 2009 by 13.23%. Alcohol-related crimes

increased by 31.97% in the first half of 2009. The report pointed to several causes of these crimes, including widespread corruption in the departments of the Civil Service Authority in Yemen, prolonged lawsuits in courts, Yemen’s geographical nature, Yemen’s borders with many Arab and African countries, and the lack of facilities for security systems. Education—The report touched on the bitter reality of education in Yemen citing increasing challenges facing secondary education. The most important of these problems are as follows: the inability of secondary education to meet the needs of development, a deficiency of annual plans, a large gender imbalance, an absence of teachers, random distribution of teachers, complacency of administrative officials, school fees, poor curricula, and the lack of qualified teachers. Secondary education is based on a theoretical and academic approach – lacking science labs, financial resources, equipment and buildings that are required for a comprehensive education. Electronic Media—The report said that the electronic press is suffering due to the lack of financial returns from ads and companies, lack of well-trained and qualified electronic journalists, and strict government constraint and regulation.

Letter to the Editor

THE CHAIN French,1774-a young,good intentioned but inexperienced Louis XVI ascended the throne with the popular title of “Sun King” and the promise to always consult and pay heed to the public opinion. The french society was divided in Aristocracy,Clergy and the Third State(representing the majority of the population). The first two classes considered working as not agreeing with their privileged status,this meant the “commons” were the only real bread-earners. Theirs was the burden to provide and finance the lavish feasts and luxuries of the Imperial Palace when they could scarcely sustain themselves. Theirs was also the duty,of course,to pay heavy taxes in order to reduce the great debt wars while trying to survive famine and malnutrition. On the 5th October 1789,a frustrated and roaring mob marched on the court of Versailles killing and wounding any noble or royal guard daring to oppose it.When Louis’ wife,Queen Marie Antoinette witnessed the huge mob invading the Imperial gardens,she was informed that the people were protesting and revolting against the further increase in the price of bread which they could no longer afford.The Queen is reported as to have dismissed the event by suggesting:”Let them eat cake,then”.

Even though inhabiting the same country,how distant were the rulers and the aristocracy to understanding the commons’ agony.King and Queen were the first monarchs to test the guillotine,their fate for not having recognized the basic needs of the people. Economists target the capacity of National food production as the key role for power and progress.Social studies reveal that for a society to develop and prosper,two factors are essential:safety-security from imminent danger- and foodadequate nutrition. When a country produces its own goods,it significantly decreases the need to purchase them from outside,saving a huge amount of money.Due to this,the country is able to sell home-made items lower prices,which in turn encourages citizens to buy and demand National production enhancing and directly financing their economy.The phenomenon has a great positive impact on the system when the government invests this money in education.health care and further establishment and/or improvement of agricultural,industrial sectors. Malnutrition and deaths caused by preventable diseases are some of the major issues in Yemen. According to a UNICEF survey dated 2008,the infant mortality was as high as 53%,1 every 5 newborns suffered

from low birth weight and 58% of children were affected by moderate to severe stunting. The report also calculated the central government expenditure on health from 1998-2007 to be a stunning 4% with respect to the 19% reserved to defense.With the occurrence of the recent civil wars,it’s improbable that these statistics have changed in better,especially now that the Minister of Defense has initiated it’s own armored vehicles production. George Bernard Shaw,a German critic and dramatic,said:”If history repeats itself and the unexpected always happen,how incapable must man be of learning from experience”. Yemen has natural gas as well as oil reserves,nevertheless is the poorest country in the Arabic Peninsula and one of the poorest states in ht world.How is this possible?One of the answers could be that tragically few are those gaining from the Black Gold,with the majority passively witnessing its environmental hazards. Luckily,the Arabic Felix has a very fertile soil with the potentiality to tackle malnutrition. Unfortunately-this absence of luck could more appropriately termed as lack of mind-, 97% of this green land is expected to undergo desertification,i.e. turn into a desert.Why?The main reason is soil erosion

caused by unplanned deforestation and rough schemes and care for agricultural terraces. The damages could be limited with an intelligent water irrigation plan. Ops,almost forgot we are suffering from a shortage of water..Well,actually there would be enough water to sustain a food source vegetation,but who cares about eating or feeding children when you can chew?Of the 100% of available water,over 85% is destined to agricultural purpose,but by”agricultural” here is meant qat cultivation. Even if we manage to direct 50%of the water to crop plantation we would still have to be cautious and aware of the sulfur dioxide(SO2) emissions,which among other damages,is the cause for the formation of the acid rains responsible for the death or endanger of land and aquatic organisms.SO2 emission due to fossil fuels combustion exceeds 50%,of these,78% are the result of power stations and industries. Billions are spent for the location,extraction of underground fuel reservoir while more then 13 out of the 25 millions of the Yemeni population struggles to survive below the poverty line of 1.5USD. Goods prices continue on rising while the echoes of the roaring of the crowd keeps low...for now.

Shams Al-Hani

Ambassador to the Embassy of Canada in Cairo APPEAL Dear Mr. Ferry de Kerchhove, I am applying to you with this appeal and seeking for your support in the name of justice. I am a citizen of Gaza Strip. Recently I had applied to the Canadian Embassy for the Student visa, which will allow me to follow up with my higher education and implement gained knowledge in my native country. Few days ago I had provided Canadian Consulate in Cairo with all required documents and within 2 days received my passport back with a refusal letter, which stated that I didn’t satisfy Canadian party that I will leave Canada by the end of the period authorized for my stay. Though I had provided all the documents, which stated that my family owns lots of land in Gaza Strip and I am leading one of the best dentist clinics in the area, I still was denied in obtaining the visa. This refusal made me convinced that this is an obvious discrimination of Palestinian

youth in terms of our right for higher education. I am applying to Canadian side and International community and seeking for your support. All of us understand that the youth is the future of Palestinian territories and if we are not able to gain higher education, the Elite sooner or later will be eliminated and the whole nation will become an object of manipulation in the hands of politicians. I want to apply to all International Organizations that defend the rights of the victims of political games, as well as Canadian Embassy; I am applying to all the students and the states, which support the development of international system though the opportunity of education. I am speaking on behalf of Palestinian Youth, on behalf of Palestinian future. And I am asking you for support in this case.

Numan Aljadba

National Yemen

ADVERTISMENTS

Sunday, July 25, 2010 Issue09 www.nationalyemen.com

ADVERTISMENTS

National Yemen