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THE FIRST ENGLISH LANGUAGE DAILY IN FREE KUWAIT Established in 1977 / www.arabtimesonline.com

Page 41

emergency number 112

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017 / JUMADA AL THANI 25, 1438 AH

NO. 16422

44 PAGES

150 FILS

Honors exchanged, agreements set with Turkey Amir home KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): The Amiri Diwan issued Wednesday a press statement on the visit by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Turkey between March 2022. Based on historic relations between Kuwait and Turkey and mutual interest in pursuing bilateral high-level visits, His Highness the Amir paid a state visit to Turkey on March 20 at the invitation of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Continued on Page 4

Emirates defends security amid cabin ban

KUNA photo

HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah being welcomed home by HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, March 22, (AP): The president of Emirates, the Middle East’s biggest airline, defended security measures at the carrier’s Dubai hub on Wednesday and said the ban on personal electronics onboard US-bound flights came without warning. Tim Clark told The Associated Press that he only learned of the new US regulations the previous day, saying the carrier “had no prior knowledge whatsoever.” Emirates is now scrambling to ensure it is in compliance by a Saturday morning deadline — a target Clark said it would meet a day early. Dubai was one of 10 cities in Muslim-majority countries affected by the new rule, which will force passengers to forego their tablets, laptops and other gadgets on direct flights to the US. Mobile phones and medical devices will be allowed onboard. Clark said Emirates would fully comply with the directive, even as he questioned why his airport’s hub was included.

“I do find that a little bit surprising to be quite honest,” he said. “When I travel around even the United States or Europe or Asia, I don’t see this level of scrutiny that goes on in Dubai.” Emirati authorities work closely with their US counterparts to ensure that “the people that they are concerned about coming into the United States do not board our flights,” he added. “Emirates and its owner, the government of Dubai, and the airport ... (are) as safe as any airport or any airline could possibly be,” he said. Britain issued similar restrictions a few hours after US officials announced theirs, though Dubai and Abu Dhabi — the two United Arab Emirates hubs on the US list — were not included in the British ban. Emirates has expanded rapidly in the US and elsewhere recent decades, and is one of the airlines most affected by the Continued on Page 37

TERROR STRIKES HEART OF LONDON

Four killed in attack on Westminster

A policeman points a gun at a man on the floor as emergency services attend the scene outside the Palace of Westminster, London, on March 22. London police say they are treating a gun and knife incident at Britain’s Parliament ‘as a terrorist incident until we know otherwise’. (AP).

Amir condoles British Queen, PM

Other Voices

LONDON, March 22, (Agencies): Four people, including the attacker and a police officer, died in Wednesday’s terrorism incident at the British parliament, police said.

People in religion of their government By Ali Al-Baghli

“Four people have died. That includes the police officer who was protecting parliament and one man we believe to be the attacker who was shot by a police firearms officer,” Britain’s top counter-terrorism officer Mark Rowley told reporters. At least a dozen people were injured in London on Wednesday after a car crashed into pedestrians near the British parliament and an assailant stabbed a policeman in what police called a terrorist incident. The knifeman was then shot by police in the shadow of Big Ben, where he had tried to force his way into a courtyard just outside the Houses of Parliament. The incident appeared to have unfolded in several locations, including on nearby Westminster Bridge where eyewitnesses said a car had crashed into pedestrians. In Kuwait, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah sent two cables of condolences to Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Theresa May over the victims of the terrorist attack in London on Wednesday. He expressed strong denunciation of the deadly attack that claimed two lives and injured several others. His Highness reaffirmed Kuwait’s outright rejection of all forms of terrorism and renewed support to the government of the friendly United Kingdom in whatever measures it might take to protect the country’s security and stability. He also expressed condolences to

In this image taken from video, emergency personnel gather around a body on the southside of Westminster Bridge that leads to the Houses of Parliament in London, on March 22, after the House of Commons sitting was suspended as witnesses reported sounds like gunfire outside. (AP)

IS shells west Mosul

Former Minister of Oil

An attacker is treated by emergency services, as a knife lies on the floor, with police looking on at the scene outside the Houses of Parliament in London on March 22. (AP)

the families of the victims and wished those injured quick recovery. His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah sent two cables to Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister May. His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent two similar cables. Meanwhile, Kuwait’s embassy has urged Kuwaitis in Britain to commit themselves to police instructions in the wake of the attack on a policeman near the House of Commons in Westminster on Wednesday. In a statement, the embassy called Kuwaitis to carefully observe the measures of safety and security applied by the British authorities in such conditions. It urged them to contact the embassy on 02075903400 in case of emergency. The embassy contacted the National Union of Kuwaiti Continued on Page 37

THE sudden rush against our brothers in humanity — expatriates — is unjustifiable, especially due to its sudden surprising emergence without prior warning. These three million people did not come to this country in a day or under a thick layer of darkness such that we just opened our eyes to realize they are competing with us even for the oxygen that we are breathing in, according to the honorable MP Safa Al-Hashim. Hon Safa, a significant number of these expatriates were brought to Kuwait by slave traders or rather “visa traders” (no difference) in return of financial gains. At the expense of the sweat of these expatriates, the traders are enjoying life by buying luxury cars for themselves, huge cars for their children, apartments for holding parties, and jewelries for their wives in order to keep them silent. These traders do not add any value to the country’s development. Neither they nor the government employees who helped them through bribes added any value to the country’s economy. All they did for us was increase the level of anxiety and squander the public funds for achieving their personal interests. I recently received a call from one of my friends who revealed that his son’s academic scholarship to a university in Al-Baghli the United States of America has been suspended by Ministry of Higher Education without any prior warning. My first question was whether his son violated Continued on Page 37 Email: [email protected]

US, allies confer on ways to dislodge DAESH WASHINGTON, March 22, (AP): With US-backed Iraqi forces battling to retake Mosul, officials from the 68-nation coalition fighting the Islamic State group are looking for ways to increase the pressure as planning intensifies on the next objective, dislodging the extremists from their self-declared capital in Syria. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis were hosting Iraq’s prime minister and diplomats from the coalition partners in a Wednesday meeting at the State Department. The aim is to seek new ideas to expand the fight against IS and prepare for the day of its defeat.

But they were not likely to develop a new overall strategy. The Trump administration is refining its approach to the Islamic State group, and that probably will mean a greater military role for the US and its allies, and increased reliance on local militias in Syria. The partnership with Kurdish forces is the source of complex and difficult discussions with Turkey, which sees the militants as a national security threat. As IS becomes more encircled, the mission will change. Officials expect in the coming months to see the dissipation of surviving fighters into underground cells that Continued on Page 37

Paras drop in Raqqa province BEIRUT, March 22, (Agencies): The US-led coalition air-dropped US and allied Syrian forces near Tabqa in Raqqa province, expanding a campaign by the Syrian Democratic Forces militias against Islamic State, the SDF’s Raqqa campaign said on Wednesday. The operation aims both to capture the strategic Tabqa area across the Euphrates from the SDF’s other holdings and to curb Syrian government advances in that direction, the US-backed alliance of militias said in a statement on a social media feed. Islamic State militants shelled areas recaptured by Iraqi forces in western Mosul, hitting civilians fleeing the fighting early on Wednesday as troops edged their way through the narrow, dangerous streets of the Old City. Heavy mortar fire killed at least five civilians and wounded more than 20 in Mosul Jadida and Rifak districts — areas that the militants had recently lost to Federal Police and Rapid Response brigades, military officials said. The battle for Mosul, Islamic State’s last stronghold in Iraq, is entering its sixth month with Iraq forces backed by a US-led coalition air strikes and advisers now controlling the east of the city and more than half of the west. Fighting is focused on capturing the strategic Al Nuri mosque in the Old City, where Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared his caliphate in July 2014 after the militants had seized large areas of Iraq and Syria. As many as 600,000 civilians remain in the western sector of Mosul, complicating the battle. Thousands escape daily to camps or areas in the government-controlled east.

Baghdadi and other leaders are believed to have left Mosul, but Islamic State fighters are countering with snipers hiding among the population, car bombs and armored suicide trucks smashing into Iraqi positions around the Old City. “DAESH shelled liberated, populated areas to distract our troops. They have wounded dozens,” a federal police spokesman said. At federal police frontlines near the Old City, forces blocked off roads with earthen barricades to stop suicide car bombers reaching their troops. Tanks and rocket teams stood guard at barricades while troops with RPGs manned rooftops. “We are clearing streets and buildings of booby-traps and roadside bombs,” a federal police officer said. On another front, Counter Terrorism Service forces advanced in Yabsaat district and the old industrial area in the west of the city, Maan al-Saadi, a CTS officer told state television. Losing Mosul would be a symbolic blow for Islamic State whose forces are also coming under attack in the Syrian city of Raqqa across the border. Aid agencies are rushing to cope with surging numbers of displaced from the west, building new camps and supplying food and water. The number displaced from both sides of Mosul since the start of the offensive has reached 355,000, according to government figures. US officials estimate around 2,000 fighters Continued on Page 37

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LOCAL

2

KUNA photos

From left: His Highness the Crown Prince with HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak, Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah (center), and Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah.

HH the Crown Prince receives senior state officials His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received at Bayan Palace on Wednesday His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah. His Highness the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince also met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior

Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah. Moreover, His Highness Deputy Amir and Crown Prince also received Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah. (KUNA)

Kuwaiti cinema ... old legacy, future hopes ‘Bas Ya Bahar’ movie was the turning point in Kuwaiti cinema KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): Kuwaiti cinema has developed throughout the years releasing different short films and long features that told the story of different aspects of life in old and modern Kuwait. Kuwait was a center where different cultures met and mingled since the old times and as people of different backgrounds continued to move into the country, they introduced their own art and culture that added to the Kuwaiti cinema experience. The first movie titled “Sons of Sinbad” emerged in 1939 by an Australian tourist, telling the story of pearl diving in Kuwait. This was followed by the production of another movie “Kuwait between the past and present” in 1946, by Mohammad Qabazard, who was the first Kuwaiti producer to own a cinematic camera in the early 30s. The importance of cinema grew in Kuwait as the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor and Ministry of Information have established departments specialized in producing educational movies and other types of documentaries. The turning point in Kuwaiti cinema was the movie (Bas Ya Bahar) by producer Khaled Al-Siddeeq in 1972. It told the story of the dangers Kuwaitis faced when diving for pearls back in the day. The movie saw some regional and international success, however, Kuwaiti cinema still lacked a real regional and international fan base. Develop Currently, there are a number of Kuwaiti figures who are eagerly exerting efforts to develop the cinematic field in the country. Speaking about such aspect, head of Lulua production company Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah noted that she got into the cinema field with a view to make Kuwait the cinematic capital of the Gulf. Sheikha Intisar said she had launched a professional training course for cinematic production, and music, aiming to develop the skills of youth in the field. Kuwaiti movies are now attracting large numbers of Gulf viewers. She added that the recent two movies (Habib Al-Ardh) and (Al-Ater) had been playing for weeks in cinemas. On his part, producer Dawoud Al-Shoail said the Kuwaiti cinema lacks a strong infrastructure, which is a necessity for development. Kuwaiti movies in general have weak cinematic narration of the story, as they sound more like a TV series, he explained. He advised producers to pay more attention to their script and allow it to be presented in the best picture possible. He also called on the government to give facilitations in permits for movie productions and provide specialized funds for the matter. Meanwhile, producer Ahmad AlKhodari also agreed on the difficulty of receiving a production permit in Kuwait. He said it is a long complicated process that producers have to endure every time. He noted that the cinematic field look promising these days, speaking of the “Adasa Festival” for audio and visual art, launched by the Ministry of State for Youth Affairs earlier this month. Al-Khodari also mentioned the upcoming Kuwait’s first film festival on March 24, organized by the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL). Speaking about his movie “the unmissing part” which won 11 international awards within one year, the producer said the successful story was written by young Kuwaiti narrator Mohammad Al-Muhaiteeb.

KNG team in Bahrain

BNG chief hails ties with Kuwait

Sheikha Intisar

Dawoud Al-Shoail

KUNA photos

Ahmad Al-Khodari

MANAMA, March 22, (KUNA): Bahrain’s National Guard Commander Lt-Gen Sheikh Mohammad Al Khalifa has extolled the depth of distinguished relations and cooperation with the State of Kuwait. While receiving a delegation of Kuwait National Guard on Tuesday, Al-Khalifa stressed the necessity of continued coordination with the KNG to achieve interests of the two nations and affect positively GCC member states’ security system. Meanwhile, Colonel Mohammad Ziyab, head of mission and protocols branch, said that the delegation’s visit aims to give impetus to cooperation between the two entities. It aims also to activate goals of the 2020 strategic document of Kuwait National Guard seeking to achieve further coordination and cooperation with military institutions of both friendly and sisterly countries, he added. Head of KNG’s moral guidance colonel Abdullah Saleh expressed his happiness for this visit, and conveyed greetings of Chairman of KNG Sheikh Salem Al-Ali Al-Sabah and his deputy Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah to Al-Khalifa. Saleh affirmed keenness of KNG on enhancing cooperation and exchanging expertise with Bahraini counterpart.

News in Brief ‘Unstable weather’: Former

Eng Najwan Abdulaziz Al-Yasin from the Office of Assistant VicePresident for Campus Planning, with the cooperation of Professor of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in the Geography Department of College of Social Sciences at Kuwait University Dr Mohammed AlMatar, joined the students of GIS in practically changing geometric designs from AutoCAD to GIS and thereafter commenced applying the project in Keifan Campus. The aim of applying GIS at the university is to establish an integrated GIS for the university and avail the modern technology available.

Dean of Administrative Science College at Kuwait University Dr Meshari AlHajri, Assistant Dean for Students Affairs Dr Nayef Al-Shimmari, and Director of Academic Exchange Program Dr Yasser Al-Kleeb received a group of students from French universities (Normandy Business School and ESC Rennes School of Business) participating in the exchange program for second semester 2016/2017. The officials wished all students a happy stay in Kuwait and recommended they make the most of their study with the Administrative Science College. It is worthy of note the program bridges cultures between the east and the west while promoting tolerance among students.

Maritime transport, navigation feature high on Kuwaiti-Bahraini talks

Kuwait, Turkey ink $15m deals for Syrian refugees ANKARA, March 22, (KUNA): The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) on Tuesday signed with Turkey three agreements worth $15 million to contribute to the response plan of Syrian refugees living in the Turkish cities of Gaziantep, Kilis and Sanliurfa. The agreements were signed by KFAED’s Director General AbdulWahab Al-Bader and Mayors of Gaziantep, Kilis and Sanliurfa, in the presence of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad AlJaber Al-Sabah and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Speaking to KUNA, Al-Bader said that the agreements would contribute to financing projects aiming to alleviate economic and social effects on services provided to refugees living in host cities across Turkey. They also aim to support Turkey’s efforts seeking to respond to refugees’ crisis, and enhance social cohesion in the three mentioned cities, he added. He noted that the first project in Gaziantep aims to provide social services and professional training courses for refugees, and build a rehabilitation center for the disabled. He expected that the project would complete by 2019. In Kilis, the project will focus on the rehabilitation and construc-

Some MEW sectors set a 3-year plan: source

‘Present strategy to cut number of expat workers’ KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Undersecretary at the Ministry of Electricity and Water Engineer Mohammad Buhahri has commissioned undersecretaries in various sectors of the ministry to present strategy to reduce the number of expatriates in operations and maintenance sectors and replace them with the national personnel as per

Kuwaitization policy, reports AlRai daily quoting a knowledgeable source. The same source added some sectors have set a three-year plan to fulfill the replacement policy. In an internal memo circulated to various sectors of the ministry, Undersecretary Buhahri affirmed the need to intensify

training and rehabilitation programs for the national personnel in all specialties to facilitate the gradual replacement plan. He noted the ministry has actually reduced the number of expatriates at technical sector hired on special contracts by 30 percent, and cut by 50 percent those in administrative and financial sectors.

tion of social centers for refugees, and providing them with furniture and equipment, he pointed out. It also includes the preparation of a landfill for solid waste at a capacity of 454,000 cubic meters, and overhauling of a main road, he made clear. Al-Bader indicated that the project in Sanliurfa aims to improve drinking water, renovate sewage network and redirect rainwater to prevent floods across the city. KFAED provided up to 12 loans worth KD 106 million to finance projects in different fields across Turkey. It also offered two grants worth $20 million last January to contribute to the response plan to Syrian refugees’ crisis in the areas

of health and education. Meanwhile, means of enhancing bilateral cooperation in maritime transport and navigation featured high on the agenda of Kuwaiti-Bahraini cooperation talks held in Manama on Tuesday. Undersecretary of Ports and Maritime Affairs at the Bahraini Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications Hassan AlMajid and Director General of the Kuwait Ports Authority (KPA) Sheikh Yusuf Al-Abdullah AlSabah Al-Nasser Al-Sabah, also discussed the latest developments in the field. The two sides reviewed the achievements of the Kingdom’s ports, the Bahraini ministry said in a statement, reviewing the fu-

ture plans for promoting performance in line with the latest international standards, criteria and practices. They also exchanged constructive views and proposals for mutual benefit. During the meeting, Al-Majid stressed the significance of bolstering ties between the ministry and KPA which enjoys long history and experience in the industry. On his part, Sheikh Yusuf AlAbdullah emphasized the deeprooted ties between the two countries in all fields. The Kuwaiti delegation had a tour in the Khalifa bin Salman Port, where they were briefed on the major tasks of the company in charge of the harbor.

director of Kuwait Meteorological Department Mohammad Karam says the weather conditions on Thursday, March 23 and Friday, March 24 will be unstable, reports Al-Rai daily. Karam explained that the thunderstorms can be expected throughout Kuwait. The expected wind speed is 60 kms per hour, which can carry dust and probably lead to dust storms. The cloud cover is expected to be heavy by Wednesday night and heavy rains can be expected on Thursday and Friday. The weather will start improving gradually by Saturday March 25 with relatively cold northwesterly winds. He indicated that the current season is called pre-Sarayat season which is known for its unstable weather. Karam stressed that the weather conditions during the pre-Sarayat season is not as severe as the weather conditions during the Sarayat season which will begin by mid of April. ❑ ❑ ❑

Bid to suspend accreditation: Ministry of Higher Education is considering suspension of accreditation of three private universities for not obtaining approval from academic accreditation authorities and also for their lack of administrative and academic capabilities, reports Al-Shahed daily quoting informed sources. They explained that the universities receive state land for free but charge exorbitant fees for providing services to students. Despite this, the universities have failed dismally in getting academic accreditation. Half of the professors in these universities are graduates from unaccredited universities and are holders of suspicious certificates. The sources stressed that the administration of these universities have ignored calls to address their situation, adding that the owners of these universities are powerful and have solid connections with the concerned authorities.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LOCAL

3

Deputy Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah attends ceremony

NLK receives 6,000 books from Al-Sharekh’s library KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): Mohammad Al-Sharekh’s library has donated up to 6,000 books to the National Library of Kuwait (NLK) on Tuesday. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a ceremony held today on this occasion, Deputy Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah said granting this amount of Al-Sharekh’s books reflects the generosity of Kuwaiti

people. Sheikh Ali Al-Sabah thanked NLK and National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters for their efforts and roles in backing culture and knowledge promotion in Kuwait. Meanwhile, NLK’s Director General Kamel Abdul-Jalil said the generous dedication of Al-Sharekh is an honorable stance and a constructive contribution to supporting the national library and its constructive

message. The library received Tuesday the largest part of books of Al-Sharekh’s library in the first phase and two other thousand books will be granted to the library later, he noted. The number of books at NLK reached 403,000 books, he stated. The ceremony was patronized and attended by Deputy Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Jarrah Al-Sabah.

Speaking at the event, Director General of NLK Kamil Al-Abduljaleel, thanked Al-Sharekh’s library for its support to the national library. He said the NLK is working on developing its work scheme through modern information technology systems and social media. Mohammad Al-Sharekh is a successful businessman, philanthropist, and writer, who has always supported the library.

He worked at and developed the Industrial Bank of Kuwait and he was appointed as chairman of the board in 1973. Al-Sharkeh’s library has donated its full collection of 5,400 books on banking, economy, and industry to NLK, Al-Abduljaleel said, adding that the new donated library will be launched in the near time. Al-Sharekh believed in the importance of developing the use of the

Arabic language, launching a number of educational computer programs for youth in the early 80s. He also published a number of short stories and a novel as part of his work in literature, said Al-Abduljaleel. On his part, Al-Sharekh thanked Sheikh Ali Al-Sabah for patronizing the event, hoping his donation of books would further enrich NLK’s collection of literature and history.

Kuwait Finance House marks 40th ’versary of establishment KFH one of the foremost Islamic financial institutions in world

KUNA photo

Sheikh Ali Al-Jarrah touring the National Library of Kuwait during the book donation ceremony.

Bid to resolve delay in paying wages

‘1,074 out of total 1,270 teachers have no certs to deal with special needs people’ KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Assistant Undersecretary for Private and Qualitative Education in the Ministry of Education Dr AbdulMohsin Al-Huwailah disclosed that 1,074 of the total 1,270 male and female teachers employed by schools for special needs in the country do not have certificates to deal with handicaps, reports Al-Anba daily. In an interview, Al-Huwailah noted the ministry has reached an agreement with Public Authority for Al-Huwailah Applied Education and Training (PAAET) to start special needs bachelor programs. He called for intensified efforts to ensure the development of education, noting several kindergartens are operating in private residential areas although the ministry refuses to issue licenses to private schools for that purpose. He commended Cabinet’s annual financial

support of six million dinars to the charitable fund for training Bedoun students. He also confirmed the admittance of 1,250 male and female Syrian students in private schools. There are committees that follow up, monitor and evaluate the activities of foreign schools to ensure that lessons in Arabic and other Islamic related subjects, religion and national unity are done the right way. ❑





Minister of Health Dr Jamal Al-Harbi has addressed the ministry’s financial affairs sector to resolve the delay in paying wages of Bedouns hired on special contract basis, reports Al-Anba daily. In a statement, Dr Al-Harbi reaffirmed commitment to ensure that financial sector disburses the wages of Bedouns hired on special contracts along with the salaries of the ministry’s staff. He disclosed the mechanism of paying wages of employees on special contract basis, indicating the list of names of concerned workers are sent to the financial sector 20th of each month.

Kuwait Today Prayer Timings Fajr ............................................................... 04:30 Sunrise .......................................................... 05:49 Zohr ............................................................... 11:55 Asr .................................................................. 15:23 Maghrib ........................................................ 18:01 Isha ............................................................... 19:18

Weather Expected weather for the next 24 hours: By Night: Partly cloudy to cloudy with moderate to fresh south easterly wind, with speed of 25-45 km/h with a chance for scattered rain. By Day: Clouds will increase gradually with moderate freshening at times south easterly wind, with speed of 25-50 km/h causing rising dust over open areas. Station Max Min Exp Rec Kuwait City 28 19 Kuwait Airport 28 16 Abdaly 30 15 Bubyan 26 16 Jahra 31 17 Failaka Island 27 18 Salmiyah 24 18 Ahmadi 24 19 Nuwaisib 27 15 Wafra 29 16 Salmy 30 15

4 days forecast - Weather Thursday, March 23 Expected weather.........................................Cloudy Max Temp ........................................................ 31C Min Temp ......................................................... 19C Wind Direction ....................................................SE Wind Speed ...........................................25-50 km/h Friday, March 24 Expected weather......................................Unstable Max Temp ........................................................ 29C Min Temp ......................................................... 19C Wind Direction ....................................................SE Wind Speed ...........................................25-50 km/h Saturday, March 25 Expected weather.....Partly cloudy + scattered rain Max Temp ........................................................ 26C Min Temp ......................................................... 17C Wind Direction .......................................... NW-VRB Wind Speed ...........................................10-32 km/h Sunday, March 26 Expected weather...........Sunny + scattered clouds Max Temp ........................................................ 29C Min Temp ......................................................... 18C Wind Direction ................................................ NE-N Wind Speed ...........................................08-26 km/h

Marine Forecast Station

Max Min Exp Rec

South Dolphin Umm Mudayrah Beacon M28 Beacon N6 Qaruh Island Umm Al-Maradem Sea Island Buoy Salmiyah

23 20 23 26 25 24

18 18 16 18 18 18

Sea Surf 19 -

Today’s Waves Ht Direction 6ft SE 6ft SE 6ft SE 6ft SE 6ft SE 6ft SE 6ft SE

4 days forecast - Marine Thursday, March 23 Expected weather.........................................Cloudy Sea state ................................... Moderate to rough Wave height ................................................... 4-8 ft Max Temp ........................................................ 31C Min Temp ......................................................... 19C Wind Direction ....................................................SE Wind Speed ...........................................25-50 km/h Friday, March 24 Expected weather......................................Unstable Sea state ................................... Moderate to rough Wave height ................................................... 4-8 ft Max Temp ........................................................ 29C Min Temp ......................................................... 19C Wind Direction ....................................................SE Wind Speed ...........................................25-50 km/h Saturday, March 25 Expected weather.....Partly cloudy + scattered rain Sea state ................................... Moderate to rough Wave height ................................................... 2-4 ft Max Temp ........................................................ 26C

deaths Mohammad Shemais Mohammad Jafar, 72 years old, buried on Wednesday. Condolences: (Men) Shaab, Diwan Al Kanadra Tel. 90037494 (Women) Fintas, Block 4, St. 16, House 35/9 Tel. 55666572. Zakiya Jadooa Al Johar, widow of Othman Hasan Al Qaoud, 71 years old , buried on Wednesday. Condolence: (Men) Dahiyat Abdullah Al Salem, Block 1, Maram Bin Senan St. House 25 Tel. 97850206 (Women) Salam, Block 4, St. 613, House 7. Omar Abdul Rahman Ayesh Al Jewaisri, 16 years old buried on Wednesday. Condolence: (Men) Salwa, Block 2, Al Mutanabi St. House 11 Tel. 99709211 (Women) Salwa, Block 6, St. 3, House 10 Tel. 98877611. Saeda Abdul Nabi Yousef Mal Allah, 43 years old, wife of Mohammad Afraz Ali Al Kathmi, buried on Wednesday. Condolence: West Mishref, Al Wazzan Mosque Tel. 55989855 (Women) Rumaithiya, Huseiniyat Umm Sadeq, Block 4, Malek Bin Anas St. House 5 Tel. 99210005. Falah Mohammad Thamer Al Rajhi, 91 years old, buried on Wednesday. Condolence: Rabiya, Block 4. St. 8, House 17 Tel. 97876864. Hessa Abdul Latif Abdul Rahman Al Jassaar, widow of Abdullah Abdul Karim Al Said, 85 years old, to be buried on Thursday at 9:00 am. Condolence: (Men) Qortuba, Block 1, St. 4, Diwan Al Jassaar Tel. 99027834 (Women) Qadisiya, Block 4, St. 45, House 1 Tel. 996166677. Fahda Marzook Fahad Al Banyan, 93 years old, to be buried on Thursday at 09:00 am. Condolence: (Men) Sulaibikhat, Block 4, St. 115, avenue 8,House 7 (Women) Sulaibikhat, Block 4, St. 115, avenue 8, House 9. Ahmad Husein Mahmoud Dashti, 95 years old, buried on Wednesday. Condolence: (Men) Rumaithiya, Block 10, Abu Hanifa St, Avenue 101, Huseiniyat Al Atra Al Tahera Tel. 97818643 (Women) Salmiya, Block 12, Abu Thar Al Ghafari St. House 9, OPP. Hadi hospital Tel. 99478664. Mohammad Mahmoud Mohammad Al Awadi, 66 years old, to be buried on Thursday at 9:00 am. Condolence ( Men) Da’iya, Block 3, Diwan Al Awadi, OPP. Da’iya round about Tel.66111341 (Women) Surra, Block 2, St. 8, House 4 Tel. 99822133.

March 22, 2017 Min Temp ......................................................... 17C Wind Direction .......................................... NW-VRB Wind Speed ...........................................10-32 km/h Sunday, March 26 Expected weather...........Sunny + scattered clouds Sea state ................................... Slight to moderate Wave height ................................................... 1-3 ft Max Temp ........................................................ 29C Min Temp ......................................................... 18C Wind Direction ................................................ NE-N Wind Speed ...........................................08-26 km/h

Tide times at Shuwaikh Port 1st high tide: ...................................................07:54 2nd high tide: ..................................................17:41 1st low tide: ....................................................12:06 2nd low tide: ...................................................02:11 Sunrise: ..........................................................05:50 Sunset: ...........................................................18:00

Recorded yesterday at Kuwait Airport Max temp.......................................................... 25C Min temp........................................................... 15C Max Rh .............................................................81% Min Rh ..............................................................33% Max Wind .............................................SE 32 km/h Total Rainfall in 24 hrs ...................................0 mm

Recorded yesterday at South Dolphin Min/Max/ Air Temp ...................................... 18/21C Min/Max Rel Hum ........................................54/76% Wind Direction/Wind Speed ................... S/32 km/h Prev Wave Dir/Max Wave Ht ..........................N/- ft Min/Max Sea Surface Temp.............................-/- C Sea Current ............................................ Downdraft

— Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Meteorological Dept.

KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): Kuwait Finance House (KFH) celebrated the 40th anniversary of its establishment to become one of the foremost Islamic financial institutions in the world. KFH is considered as a pioneer in the banking phenomenon known as Islamic Finance or Shari’a Compliant Banking, it is the first Islamic bank established in 1977 based in Kuwait. It offers a wide range of products and services. Leading the Islamic finance industry globally, and offering a suite of financial Islamic services and products, KFH’s group banking network spans across GCC countries, Asia and Europe, with more than 446 branch including Kuwait Finance House — Turkey (KFH-Turkey) that offers service for customers in Turkey, KSA, Bahrain, Malaysia, Germany, Jordan, and Dubai. Thirty-nine years ago, KFH opened to the public for the first time on Aug 31, 1978 and after nine months from establishment by Amiri decree law No. 72/1977 as a Kuwaiti Shareholding Company, on March 23, 1977. Immediately after the opening on its temporary headquarters in Ahmad Al-Jaber Street, around 170 accounts were registered on the first day, where the headquarters of the bank moved to Emad Commercial Center in 1983 then to its current location on Abdullah Al-Mubarak street in 1986. Upon incorporation, the government participated in KFH with a 49 percent share, distributed to the Ministry of Finance by 20 percent, the Ministry of Justice (Department of Minors Affairs) before becoming a public body in 1983 by 20 percent, the Ministry of Awqaf by nine percent, while the rest of the shares amounted 51 percent were floated for public subscription with a capital of KD 10 million.

Board The first KFH board of directors included Ahmed Bazie Al-Yaseen as Chairman and Managing Director, Mohammad Ibrahim Buhindi as Vice Chairman and Deputy Managing Director, Khalid Saleh Al-Ateeqi, Abdulhameed Abdulrazzaq Al-Obaid, Abdulmohsen Ali Al-Tuwairish, Ali Abdulkareem Al-Fozan and Fahd Nayef were replaced by Ali Mohammed Al-Mudhaf, Mohammed Yousef Al-Roumi, Marikhan Saad Saqr and Hadi Hayef Al-Huwailah where Bader Abdulmohsen Al-Mukhaizeem was appointed as the first General Manager of Kuwait Finance House. During 2016, KFH continued in financing big developments project in Kuwait, most importantly Environmental Fuel Project in addition to financing Infrastructure projects, energy, transportation and real estate development. forty years later, the government maintained its stake in KFH through the General Investment Authority holding 24 percent, the General Authority for Minors Affairs by 10.4 percent, the General Secretariat of Awqaf by 7.3 percent and the General Organization for Social Insurance by 6.6 percent. KFH has become a major player in the international sukuk market where the volume of KFH trading group at the sukuk market reached about USD 11.4 billion in 2016. KFH participated in financing the budget deficit through government debt instruments issued by the Central Bank of Kuwait, where KFH’s share is the largest among Islamic banks. KFH has diversified its activities in several areas, including the social role as an Islamic financial institution with a working methodology that sees money as a key role in the service and development of the society as well as its role in humanitarian work and in supporting the educational process in Kuwait.

Photos by Iehab Qurtal

Above: Some photos from the National Day celebration.

Amir sends congratulations to President Essebsi

Tunisian Embassy marks 61st Independence Day By Shawki Mahmoud Al-Seyassah Staff KUWAIT CITY, March 22: The Tunisian Ambassador to Kuwait Ahmed Bin Al-Saghir affirmed his country’s appreciation for the support of Kuwait towards Tunisia. He highlighted several such honorable situations when Kuwait supported Tunisia including financially and politically, such as through exchange of visits by leaders, and the loan of $500 million offered to Tunisia by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. He expressed gratitude to His

Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmed Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. The ambassador said this during an event organized by the Tunisian Embassy in Kuwait on the occasion of Tunisia’s 61st Independence Day. Minister of Education and Higher Education Dr Mohammad Al-Fares was present at the event and he commended the strong ties between

Kuwait and Tunisia. Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah sent a cable of congratulation on Monday to Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, on the occasion of Tunisia’ national day, expressing his best wishes and prosperity to Tunisia leadeship and people. His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah sent similar cables marking the occasion.

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Bill calls for setting up labs at all ports to check imported foodstuff MP Al-Mutairi submits query to commerce minister By Abubakar A. Ibrahim Arab Times Staff

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Showing concern for the health of the citizens and people living in the country, MP Waleed AlTabtabaei has presented a bill in the National Assembly which calls for the establishment of laboratories at all land, air and sea ports to run a check on foodstuffs imported from abroad. In the explanatory note, the lawmaker said Article 15 of the Kuwaiti Constitution on health care asserts ‘The State cares for public health and for means of prevention and treatment of diseases and epidemics’ and this requires the State to make every effort to provide care for citizens and protection from all diseases and epidemics. A photo from the event.

NCCAL holds lecture on ‘Volunteering … Another Life’ National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) recently organized a lecture on “Volunteering… Another Life” in collaboration with Kuwait Voluntary Foundation.

The lecture was delivered by Ma’asouma Mathkouri at the Child Culture Monitoring Hall inside Abdul-Aziz Hussein Cultural Center as part of the activities of 28th Future Generations Exhibition.

Road project to be financed

KFAED, Sierra Leone sign KD 5m loan deal KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) and Sierra Leone have signed a loan agreement worth KD 5 million ($17 million) to finance overhauling a road linking the capital to all provinces. The project aims to support social and economic development in the country through renovating the road which links the capital,

Freetown, to all provinces, the fund said in a press statement on Wednesday. It includes expanding the road to four lanes instead of two along 24 kms, renovating other roads leading to towns, establishing water drainage installations and others, it added. It is the ninth loan provided by KFAED to the country; the 8 previous ones were estimated at KD

28 million ($94 million) for financing projects in different sectors, it noted. The loan was inked by Serra Leone’s Mohammadou Karghebo and KFAED’s deputy director general Ghanem Al-Ghunaiman, in the presence of Sierra Leone’s President Ernest Bai Koroma and KFAED’s regional manager for West African countries Thamer Al-Failakawi.

He added the imported foodstuffs comprise a significant part of daily consumption and a major threat if food imported is unfit for human consumption or may be cause for a lot of diseases and epidemics. In order to control and facilitate the process of ensuring the safety of these products coming to us via all ports of the country, he suggested, it is necessary to have a mandatory legislation to build laboratories at all land, air and sea ports to check on the validity of food imported from abroad through a regulatory mechanism.

Articles He explained the first and second articles of the bill talk about definitions and responsibilities for the establishment and management of those laboratories. The sixth, seventh and eighth articles, he added, specify punishments for those who are found to be violating the provisions of this law. Article nine of the bill, he went on to say, stipulates that the concerned minister must determine the employees who will implement this law, its regulations and decisions. Meanwhile, MP Majed AlMutairi has submitted a parliamentary query to Minister of Commerce and Industry, and Minister of Youth Affairs, Khalid Al-Rawdan on a report that the minister has replaced the expatriate advisors in office with Kuwaitis because the minister on his personal account on Twitter has issued a denial, describing it as ‘inaccurate and unjust’ saying the process of replacement requires time and cannot be done ‘overnight’. The lawmaker wants to know how many expatriates work in ministries of Youth Affairs and Commerce compared to citizens; the timetable for the replacement of expat advisors with citizens in both ministries.

Academic He also wants to know the academic qualifications and practical experience of the expat advisors, their salaries and financial benefits and if there is plan to replace the expatriate advisors with citizens? He also wants to know if there is a strategy in these ministries to replace expats with citizens in other jobs and if the Civil Service Commission (CSC) has been informed to look for citizens who are competent to occupy these positions, and if the answer is ‘Yes’, he wants to know how many have been hired. On another issue, Head of the Priorities Committee of the National Assembly MP Thamer Al-Suweit disclosed following the committee meeting that the next Parliament session has on its agenda discussion of government’s work program and amendment to the Nationality Law which is called ‘the most important issues’. He added the committee has spotted so far 16 laws which were not issued through executive regulations. He admitted there is a problem when it comes to application of these laws which have been passed by the Parliament.

Al-Tabtabaei

Top: Prof Al-Ansari cutting the ribbon, and (above), checks some of the posters.

KU holds 9th Scientific Poster Day Under the patronage and in the presence of the President of Kuwait University Prof Hussain Ahmad AlAnsari, the Ninth Scientific Poster Day for technical colleges was organized by the research sector of Kuwait University at the late Farouk Barghash Al-Mutairi Hall in the College of Engineering and Petroleum at Khaldiya Campus on Wednesday,

March 22. Assistant vice-presidents for research, deans of the participating colleges and prominent researchers were present at the event. Prof Al-Ansari affirmed the keenness of Kuwait University to enhance quality and originality of scientific researches and promote research enthusiasm among different disciplines.

Honors exchanged

promote friendship ties between Kuwait and Turkey to cover all fields, saying these friendship ties are a symbol of the strong relations and mutual confidence between the two countries. Erdogan also described the UN 2014 honoring of His Highness the Amir as a “Humanitarian Leader” and Kuwait as a “Humanitarian Center,” as a welldeserved honor, referring to the huge aid Kuwait has been offering to Syrian refugees and the needy around the globe. On the sidelines of the visit, Kuwaiti Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Anas Al-Saleh met with Turkish Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Mehmet Simsek, and discussed a possible industrial-trade zone to serve the Turkish private sector. A meeting was also held between the defense ministers of both countries. Meanwhile, His Highness the Amir and his accompanying delegation have since returned home. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad was received at the airport by His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Jaber Al-Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Sheikh Faisal AlSaud Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah, Deputy Chairman of the National Guard Sheikh Meshaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, National Assembly Acting Speaker Issa Al-Kanderi, Deputy Premier and Interior Minister Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah, Acting Minister of the Amiri Diwan Khaled Abdullah Boudai, Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs and Acting Minister of Information Sheikh Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, senior state officials, ranking chiefs of the army, police and National Guard.

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During the landmark visit, the Turkish President bestowed upon His Highness the Amir the “Order of the State of Turkey”, which is the most prestigious decoration awarded to foreign nationals. The gesture was met with great appreciation and delight by His Highness the Amir, who described it as a testament to historical ties between Kuwait and Turkey. His Highness the Amir said that it reflected a mutual desire for closer bilateral ties. In return, His Highness the Amir presented the Turkish President with Kuwait’s “Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer”. Official talks were held between His Highness the Amir and the Turkish president on historic firm relations between Kuwait and Turkey and ways of promoting and developing existing partnership in all domains for the common interest of both countries, in addition to efforts to bolster cooperation in various fields.

Issues They also discussed major issues of mutual interest and exchanged views on the latest regional and international developments. The talks were held in a friendly atmosphere that reflected mutual understanding and friendship between both nations’ leaderships. In presence of His Highness the Amir and Erdogan, Kuwait and Turkey signed a vast array of agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to ratchet up cooperation between both nations. A trio of deals were sealed on a grant presented by Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) for a response plan to the Syrian refugee crisis in the Turkish provinces of Gaziantep, Kilis and Sanliurfa, as the agreements were signed by KFAED Director General Abdulwahab Al-Bader and the respective mayors of the three Turkish provinces. Kuwait’s Major General Abdulrahman Al-Hadhoud and Turkish General Othman Arbash were the signatories of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for bilateral military cooperation. Another MoU for Kuwaiti-Turkish cooperation on Islamic affairs was signed by Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and President of the Turkish Presidency of Religious Affairs Mehmet Gormez. An agreement for bilateral touristic cooperation was signed by Kuwait’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Anas Al-Saleh and Ankara’s Minister of Culture and Tourism Nabi Avci. During official talks, His Highness the Amir renewed his invitation to the Turkish leader to visit Kuwait in order to attend the launching ceremony of a new passenger terminal carried out by a Turkish company. The Turkish leader vowed to positively comply with a Kuwaiti request to grant Kuwaiti visitors visa-free entry in the near future. Both sides agreed to boost bilateral economic and investment cooperation, given that two-way trade exchange is estimated at nearly $1.2 billion. Politically, they agreed to continue supporting all ongoing efforts to maintain regional and international security and stability and to resolutely fight terrorism and extremism. In this context, the State of Kuwait greatly appreciated Turkey’s hosting of Syrian refugees and its keenness on alleviating their humanitarian sufferings and woes. The Turkish leader highly commended His Highness the Amir’s eagerness to

Delegation His Highness the Amir’s accompanying delegation grouped First Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense Sheikh Mohammad Al-Khaled Al-Hamad AlSabah, Deputy Premier and Finance Minister Anas Al-Saleh, His Highness the Amir’s Office Chief Ahmad AlFahad, Advisor at the Amiri Diwan Mohammad Abul-Hassan, Amiri Protocol Chief Sheikh Khaled Al-Abdullah AlSabah, Deputy Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Jarallah, KFAED Director-General Abdulwahab Al-Bader, Amiri Diwan’s Media Chief Yousef Al-Roumi, Chief of Amiri Diwan’s Political and Economic Affairs Sheikh Fawaz Al-Saud AlNasser Al-Sabah, Managing Director of Kuwait Investment Authority Bader AlSaad, Assistant Foreign Minister for the First Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister’s Affairs Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah and senior officials of Amiri Diwan and Foreign Ministry. His Highness the Amir on Wednesday addressed a cable to Erdogan, post concluding his State official visit to the friendly Republic of Turkey. His Highness the Amir, in the cable, expressed deep gratitude to the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during the visit to the nation, thus depicting the good ties between the two friendly countries and peoples. He expressed deep gratitude to President Erdogan and satisfaction for paying the visit to the friendly country; a mission that would contribute to cementing the bilateral relations and mutual cooperation between the two friendly countries. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad expressed good wishes to President Erdogan, the republic and friendly Turkish people, wishing Turkey further progress and prosperity.

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Photos by Rizk Tawfik/Iehab Qurtal

The Editor-in-Chief of the Arab Times and Al-Seyassah newspapers Ahmed Al-Jarallah, received in his office Tuesday, March 21, the Ambassador of Morocco Ja’afer Hakim (left) to the State of Kuwait. He also received on March 22, Wednesday, the Ambassadors of Greece Andreas Papadakis (center) and the Ambassador of Romania Daniel Tanase (right) to the State of Kuwait. During the meeting both sides discussed issues of mutual interest.

Kuwait a leading light in societal dev – Al-Sabeeh 6th Int’l Govt Communication Forum kicks off Chairman of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Ali Mohammed Thunayan Al-Ghanim Sunday received Honorary President of Kuwait Blind Association (KBA) Fahad Siyah Abushaibah accompanied by Board Chairman Fayez Al-Azmi and Treasurer Mansour Al-Anezi to discuss several issues.

SHARJAH, March 22, (KUNA): Kuwaiti Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Hind Al-Sabeeh said here Wednesday Kuwait is pioneering in the field of societal development in the region. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the 6th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) held in Sharjah today, the minister said the State of Kuwait strongly believes in genuine human development.

KUNA photo

The exhibition for the talented which kicked off on Wednesday, incubates gifted young citizens. Al-Jahra Governor Fahad Al-Amir inaugurated the event for incubating male and female students at Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Center for Giftedness and Creativity — Al-Jahra Branch.

Theme: Understanding Clouds

Kuwait to celebrate World Meteorological Day today KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): The State of Kuwait will mark on March 23 the World Meteorological Day, which will be celebrated under the theme: Understanding Clouds. Speaking to KUNA on the occasion, Deputy Chief of Kuwait Directorate General for Civil Aviation’s (DGCA) Air Navigation Services Khaled Mubarak Al-Shuaibi commended the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) for choosing this theme in this year’s celebrations, affirming that clouds were very crucial for the profession of weather forecasting. The World Meteorological Day, first celebrated in 1960, aims at promoting the importance of weather forecasting and meteorology in the daily lives of humans all around the globe, said Al-Shuaibi. Al-Shuaibi noted that the DGCA’s Kuwait Meteorological Department would host an event at the Avenues Mall next Thursday in celebration of the World Meteorological Day. On his part, DGCA top executive Emad Al-Sanousi said that clouds played a vital role in equalizing the earth’s atmosphere, distributing the right amount of energy, heat, and water needed in each region of the globe. During the celebrations, the WMO will be issuing a digital atlas for clouds in several languages, including Arabic, he said. The atlas will further expand

knowledge on clouds and their importance for the weather, said AlSanousi. According to the WMO, Understanding Clouds — the theme of World Meteorological Day 2017 — highlights the enormous importance of clouds for weather climate and water. Clouds are central to weather observations and forecasts. Clouds are one of the key uncertainties in the study of climate change, which required better understanding of how clouds affect the climate and how a changing climate will affect clouds. Clouds play a critical role in the water cycle and shaping the global distribution of water resources. ❑ ❑ ❑ Minister of Public Works Abdulrahman Al-Mutawaa signed on Wednesday two contracts for maintaining roads and public squares in Doha and Sulaibikhat at KD 6.268 million. The ministry said in a statement one of the contracts, worth KD 2.73 million, stipulates maintaining roads and squares in the two districts. The work also includes parking lots, sewage pipes and sidewalks. The other one, valued at KD 4.195 million, includes maintaining roads and public plazas in Hawally, as well as building roads, parking lots, sewage pipes and sidewalks in Al-Salam neighborhood.

‘Stats very significant’

Forum to convene biannually RIYADH, March 22, (KUNA): The GCC statistics forum will be held once every two years, according to a consensus reached during the first seminar held at this level that concluded in the Saudi capital on Wednesday. Participants in the forum issued 14 recommendations at conclusion session of the first GCC statistics’ forum. They agreed “on the necessity” to hold the forum once every two years to assess progress in the sector. The next session would be held in Muscat, Oman, March 2019, according to the forum statements. They recommended boosting cooperation among users and producers of statistics at the local, regional and international levels, ensuring employment of latest innovation, exchanging expertise, examining prospects of partnership between the public and private sectors, updating new sources for data and boosting

cooperation with the academic communities in the GCC countries. Earlier Wednesday, Othman AlOthman, the acting general director of the Kuwaiti statistics department, told KUNA on the forum sidelines that statistics has become quite significant in shadow of “economic transformation in the regional states.” “The revolution of data and information is a new issue that warrants frameworks and legislations,” he said, indicating that the participants in the gathering focused in their talks on the partnership between users and producers of statistical data as well as how to employ this sector for boosting sustainable development strategies. The first GCC forum kicked last Monday, with the theme, “bolstering statistical partnerships to back up sustainable economic and development policies in the GCC countries.”

“The development plan in the State of Kuwait focuses on investment in human element,” Al-Sabeeh added, stressing the significance of transferring creative ideas provided by world experts to Kuwait, mainly in the domain of societal and youth development. She pointed out Kuwait’s keenness on involving civil society in setting out the country’s national development drive through a number of workshops attended by nongovernmental organizations and civil society. On his part, Kuwaiti General Consul in Dubai and Northern Emirates Thiab Al-Rashidi said the forum is of paramount significance due to the need for more international efforts for human development and environmental protection. Speaking to KUNA on the sidelines of the forum, the consul said the event has become a reference for governments to discuss how to overcome future challenges germane to societal development and economic and climate hazards. Earlier, the State of Kuwait assistant undersecretary for news and political programs, Mohammad Naji, affirmed in a statement on sidelines of the forum keenness of the Kuwaiti leadership on pressing ahead with the sustainable development by promoting all affiliated works and activities. Moreover, the State of Kuwait diligently seeks to elevate the citizens’ standards of living, educational and social care provided to them. The Kuwaiti government has recently established a special team tasked with shedding light on the government development schemes, he said, indicating that each government department would assign a spokesman to further connections with the public and the media. The 6th International Government Communication Forum (IGCF) began Tuesday with the event focusing on the role of governments in achieving sustainable development. Speaking at the opening of the forum, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi said that the development of any country should be based on utilizing the youth’s energy and creativity. Al-Qasimi affirmed that AlSharjah government focused on developing education in the Emirate in the past 32 years, saying that the children of yesterday become the men who are leading the UAE today. It is important to support the youth and their ideas and this will ensure the development and progression of any country in the world, said the official.

Mohammad Naji

Some of the students who took part in the campaign.

Campaign achieves objective Head of Kuwait Diving Team, which is affiliated to Kuwait Voluntary Environmental Foundation, Waleed Al-Fadhel affirmed that the mobile campaign to clean the beaches has achieved its significant objective, which is active participation of school students in serving Kuwait by picking several wastes that are harmful to the marine environment from various seashores of the country. In his press statement, Al-Fadhel said the campaign’s activities effectively contributed in spreading and cementing environmental and volunteering concepts as the notion of national duty. It also contributed in increasing marine environment awareness and

Briefs TIES: Means of cementing bilateral ties in all fields featured high Wednesday on a meeting between Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah AlKhaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and his Italian counterpart Angelino Alfano. The meeting was held on the sidelines of a meet of international coalition to counter the so-called Islamic State in Washington. During the two ministers’ meeting, they also discussed regional and international issues of common concern. The meeting was attended by Kuwait’s Ambassador to the United States Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Affairs of Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled’s Office Ambassador Sheikh Dr Ahmad Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah and a number of senior officials at the ministry. (KUNA) ❑





LICENSE: Chairman of the Arab Open University Students Union Anwar Al-Rouqi revealed that the process of obtaining “To Whom It May Concern” letter has been relaxed for expatriate students to enable them secure driver’s license, reports Al-Jareeda daily. Al-Rouqi disclosed the executive committee of the union recently held a meeting with the university President Dr Nayef Al-Mutairi and the issue was tabled for deliberation. He noted the president agreed that the institute will issue the letter as long as the applicant fulfills one of the three requirements, which includes successful completion of EL98 and EL99 within a single semester with an average of zero point. The second condition is to pass EL99 with six credits with an average of 2 points. The third condition is to complete 12 credits and above with an average of 2 points.

highlighting the importance of preserving marine creatures which ensure balance in its ecosystem. He stressed the significant role played by the sponsors of this major environmental project from the public and private sectors in ensuring success of this national initiative, bearing social responsibility and cementing the concept of partnership and cooperation. In this regard, the team organized a ceremony in honor of the sponsors at Al-Shumeiri Café, affiliated to the Ministry of Social Affairs, in which 80 students from various schools of Kuwait participated. Al-Fadhel explained that the mo-

bile campaign for beach cleaning is a voluntary program launched by the team for school students as part of distinguished cultural activity. More than 4,000 students benefited from the program which continued for a month. He said he expected the number of participants from educational and voluntary establishments to increase due to the success of the mobile campaign and its ability to convey the intended environmental and voluntary message to the participants in a practical and scientific manner, in addition to its brochures about Kuwait’s marine creatures and ways to preserve them. (KUNA)

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DIWANIYA A DIGEST OF PUBLIC OPINION ‘Violence not denounced’

‘Group not dependent on terror’

KUNA photo

Minister of Education Dr Mohammad Al-Fares inaugurating the academy for the gifted.

Kuwait builds academy for the gifted The State of Kuwait’s top leaders keenly back skilled and bright citizens and establishment of Sabah Al-Ahmad Center for Giftedness and Creativity is a tangible proof of this high-level approach, says the Minister of Education. Dr Mohammad Al-Fares, also the Minister of Higher Education, has re-affirmed the particular concern of the gifted nationals in a statement to journalists after inaugurating the Academy of Giftedness, on

behalf of His Highness the prime minister. He indicated that Kuwait Foundation for Advancement Sciences, namely its chairman His Highness the Amir, had exerted intensive efforts for establishing the new academy (for boys). Minister Al-Fares has disclosed that his department “has been taking steady steps for opening the counterpart academy for girls in the next academic year,” in addition to expanding the academies in the

country’s governorates. Also speaking at the ceremony was Barrak Al-Sebeeh, the Chairman of Sabah Al-Ahmad center, who affirmed the academy’s objective of providing scientific, social and psychological care for the gifted citizens. Moreover, Al-Sebeeh disclosed to KUNA a three-axes stategy; aimed at opening more academies, providing aid to national inventors and holding extra courses for students and teachers. (KUNA)

‘Traders manipulating with prices face stiff penalties’ Meat safe for consumption: official KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): The Ministry of Commerce and Industry will enforce stiff penalties against traders who lift or manipulate with commodities’ prices, the minister warned on Wednesday. The department will take stringent measures against any merchant who raises the prices in an unjustifiable manner, warned Khaled Al-Roudhan, the Minister of Trade and Industry and the Acting Minister of State for Youth Affairs, in a statement to journalists at the parliament headquarters. The law prohibits manipulation or unjustified raises of the good’s prices, the minister said. He also disclosed that his department has already taken “proper measures” against the meat companies based on the “document divulged by the media implying an illegal deal.” “I have personally forwarded that document to the consumers’ protection apparatus and have taken the necessary measures in this respect,” he affirmed. The ministry declared on Saturday that upon instructions by His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak AlHamad Al-Sabah a meeting was held for the relevant authorities to investigate monopolization in the local livestock market and ensure its stability as well as stability of the prices. The minister has instructed the apparatus to investigate the reKUNA photo ported deal among the meat importThe Omani Interior Minister Hamoud bin Faisal Al-Busaidi left Kuwait on ers to stop importing the livestock Tuesday, leading a security delegation to attend a regional conference on child during a certain period. protection from social media hazards. The Omani minister was seen off at Minister Al-Roudhan has also Kuwait International Airport by Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister and Interior ordered the relevant divisions in Minister Sheikh Khaled Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah, Acting Undersecretary of the his department to check the availInterior Ministry Maj Gen Mahmoud Al-Dosari and Omani Ambassador to able fresh and frozen meat in the Kuwait Hamed Al-Ibrahim and several senior security officials. (KUNA) market regularly. All meat imports reaching the domestic market are subjected to thorough and very careful examination to ensure the products are safe for consumption, a municipal official affirmed on Wednesday. The department of imported food is very keen on examining the imports, said Khalaf Al-Mutairi, in charge of the services sector at Kuwait Municipality, in a statement to KUNA. Samples are forwarded However, it is beyond doubt we By Ahmad Al-Sarraf to the Ministry of Health to ensure have seen what Al-Youha has to offer ith absolute confidence we can that the imported stocks are fit for and has already done so. With all due say Kuwait has witnessed a qualhuman consumption, he affirmed. respect to his predecessors, I say he has itative leap in the cultural arena which Such procedures are applied on the done much more than them, perhaps is spearheaded by the National Council imported stocks regardless of the because now the circumstances are for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) country of origin. more favorable or because he is a difover the past five years. Some Asian nations have referent person than them. The credit goes to the political leadcently halted meat imports from Al-Youha has managed to provide ership for opening the door of the counBrazil, where the police reportus all these wonderful works in spite of cil’s secretariat headed by the gifted edly searched premises of 30 meat pressure from certain political circles Engineer Ali Al-Youha. companies amid claims about exand rampant bureaucracy This cultural flourish ports of spoilt stocks. and corruption just like all and the great artistic fesother State institutions. tival that we see, in spite This means the man can of all the challenges Aldo more, but in different Youha faces on a daily circumstances, and here basis is not a small issue, we come to the subject of but it is crystal clear he is our article. determined to fight all the In Kuwait, we have sufadversaries, even those fered during rise of the KUWAIT CITY, March 22, who work from behind the cursed era of darkness – the (KUNA): Kuwait’s Human Line scene. era that was under the conOrganization said Wednesday Al-Sarraf It is not surprising the trol of the Muslim Brotherthat it was eager to organize speformer Minister of Inforhood bats, the Salafis and others because cialized workshops in Kuwait for mation used the NCCAL as a scapethey controlled most of the government human rights, equality, and antigoat to appease the forces of darkness institutions. racism. or backwardness (whatever you may These forces know that the NCCAL During an interactive workcall them) to offset the pressure from has stolen the limelight and attracted shop on equality without discrimhis shoulders. the masses and literally pulled the carination, the Secretary General of However, Al-Youha is spearheading pet from under the feet of the forces of the Human Line Organization and spreading the fragrance of art, culture darkness by depriving them what they Taher Al-Baghli told KUNA and letters in all corners of the country had benefitted from earlier. So he will that the organization is willing to which we were deprived of for so long. not be tolerated and he is aware of what develop its programs for human This is the importance of this man is coming his way. rights on a regular basis. because he is the right person in the To get out of this impasse, it is necAl-Baghli added that the Huright place for the right job. It is not essary to strengthen this cultural instiman Line Organization has orsurprising to see, that even among his tution and give it a greater degree of ganized this workshop in coinstaff there are a few hidden faces which autonomy by placing it directly under cidence with ‘The International are not satisfied with what he is doing. the control of the Prime Minister. Day for the Elimination of Racial We are aware Al-Youha cannot satThis is in line with the cultural role Discrimination’ which was celisfy everyone and therefore we must that Kuwait, the Pearl of the Gulf, is ebrated on March 21. give him the breathing space to make preparing to play once again in the reHe added that the organization his moves and squeeze out of the tunnel gion, a role that Dubai or others in rehas published several internaof darkness and backwardness which gion will be able to compete with. tional reports which tend to deall of us know is not easy task. Will we see this being achieved soon fend human rights in Kuwait and Like any other government instituby the young Minister of Information, it’s about to deliver a new one tion, the NCCAL perhaps suffers from President of the National Council for related to women. staff inflation and the slow decisionCulture, Arts and Letters Sheikh MoHe pointed out that several making process and other flaws for hammad Al-Abdullah? We hope so. events were going to be launched many reasons, but things in a country ❑ ❑ ❑ focusing on social, labor, and husuch as ours are measured by what this man rights awareness in the uppoor institution can offer us. email: [email protected] coming months.

Other Voices

Youha’s call for culture

W

Workshops on rights planned

“THE article penned by columnist Dr Hamed AlHumoud for Al-Qabas daily on March 9, 2017 once again raised the issue of the relationship between the Muslim Brotherhood group and terrorism,” columnist and researcher Dr Khalil Ali Haider wrote for Al-Jarida daily. “The article written under the title ‘President Trump and the Muslim Brotherhood group’, Dr AlHumoud warned of the negative reflections on Kuwait, Turkey and many Arab countries if the new US administration listed the group among the terrorist organizations. “He hinted any US decision to this effect will have catastrophic outcomes in the manner which is likely to be followed by Washington in dealing with the Middle East and Arab countries including the GCC states. “He added such a decision will impede any prospective reconciliation between the government of the Egyptian President Abdul Fattah el-Sisi and the Muslim Brotherhood Group. “In the era of President Donald Trump, the United States may have certain priorities and definitions for terrorist groups, but the ‘injustice of America’ to the Brotherhood if it occurs, the Brotherhood will not necessarily have a ‘national and historical process rich in experience’. “Our problem in the Arab world and other Islamic countries is not only in their history, but the major problem is that the interests of the renaissance of the Arab world, the spread of democracy and the entrenchment of human rights do not meet with the policies of this party. “They are not suitable for the management of any modern sociHaider ety in the 21st century including its religious concept and its expansionist and authoritarian goals, its non-transparency in building, membership, funding and movement, its firm hostility to cultural pluralism, religious and sectarian freedom, constitutional democracy, equality between Muslims and non-Muslims, women and men and many other causes. “The group may pretend to accept all this if it finds in this acceptance a way to dominate and serve its objective, but in reality some parties and organizations in many Muslim countries and the West adopt different positions. “But the question here is: Can the Muslim Brotherhood group be classified as a violent terrorist organization such as the al-Qaeda network, the Islamic State (IS) or the so-called ‘DAESH’ and the other jihadist groups? “No, of course ‘not’, but this is not because the group condemns the change by violence although I have never read any clear cut comment on what had been once attributed to the founder of the group Sheikh Hassan Al-Banna in his letter to the Fifth Congress of the group where he was quoted as saying the group will resort to the practical force if it was the only choice. “But with regard to the revolution, certainly the Muslim Brotherhood group doesn’t believe in the latter. Moreover, the group does not depend on the same throughout their march nor believe in its outcomes. “Returning to what had been written by our esteemed colleague Dr Hamed Al-Humoud said, it is needless to say he was accurate in terms of his analysis to the experiment of the Muslim Brotherhood Group when he said ‘The experiment of the group in Egypt and their struggle with the Egyptian political powers during a period of their history in addition to their participation in ruling the country since the foundation of the Group in 1928, make the latter more organized and experienced more than the other parties in terms of realizing the dangers of the violence. “Moreover, they realize that violence doesn’t represent the successful manner to persuade the citizens and win their hearts. “But the question here is: Did the Muslim Brotherhood leader Dr Hassan Al-Turabi and the Brotherhood group stand against the coup of Omar al-Bashir in Sudan and his ‘Islamic’ regime, and before him General Jaafar al-Numeiri? “Is the Brotherhood, even now and after all the events that have been witnessed, can be termed a modern, democratic, balanced and transparent political party that cannot slip back into any experiment that conflict with democracy? “I will not ask my brothers what is the position of the Muslim Brotherhood, for example, from the successive events in Turkey and the arbitrary procedures there since the so-called coup of July 2016, and the arrest of thousands of judges, officers, teachers, doctors, engineers and employees on charges of participating in the coup of pro-Fathallah Gulen and how the Turkish President gave himself wide powers in the wake of this coup. “In the meantime, Al-Arab Al-Arabiya newspaper, on March 19, 2017, said: ‘The fatwa issued by the World Union of Muslim Scholars, headed by Yusuf al-Qaradawi, raised the view that the presidential system is in line with Islamic law, in support of the campaign of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan , a wave of sharp criticism and ridicule among activists of social networking sites, and among Islamic thinkers and figures, some of them opposed to the Union and others are close to it. “However, we of course should recognize between the Muslim Brotherhood group and some of its members and their leaders in various countries, but it is needless to say the group is based on an ideology that doesn’t oppose violence, but certainly it has never depended on it.”

Also: “The US political writer Michael Barber, actually wrote about the secret history of the neo-conservatives who also represent the ‘Christian Zionists’ and how they came to power in the United States of America,” columnist Mohammad Ahmad Al-Mulla wrote for Al-Shahed daily. “Apart from the above, the writer talked about their wars in the Middle East and as an example cited what was written in ‘The Washington Post’ on Oct 30, 1993 which described the US Foreign Affairs Council as the ‘ruling institution’ in the United States of America.

“He hinted the members of this council have actually been drawing the US policy for more half a century including the country’s foreign relations and its weapons industry. “Apart from the above, the newspaper said the Foreign Policy Council has 24 members all senior officials that served in the administration of Bill Clinton and Clinton himself and the policy of these members is based on creating a state of anarchy in the Middle East in a prelude to divide the countries in favor of Israel. “But some other information shows that in 1995 the then Republican Speaker of the US House of Representatives who was known for his support to Israel during his meeting with some senior US Army officials and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) called for adopting a new policy to deal with the Middle Eastern affairs. “He reportedly said a specific plan must be set up to enable the US to dominate that part of the world on long term basis. However, in light of the above, we found how the Zionist lobby in the US always supporting the advisors to the Council who sympathize with Zionism for the sake of protecting the interests of Israel and to weaken the Arab nation. “Such being the case, we have observed at the moment that the United States of America is currently ruled by International Zionism with the aim of weakening both the Arab and Muslim countries and this means the Arabs must work to form an Arab lobby to encounter the Zionist lobby in the US. “In conclusion, we pray to Almighty Allah to protect Kuwait.” ❑





“Misconception about patriotism and national security is not limited to the masses. It also extends to notable personalities who have attained the highest level of responsibility,” Bader Khalid Al-Bahar wrote for Al-Qabas daily. “Reviewing the history of Kuwait for the past hundred years amid decisions taken by successive governments and objection expressed by some patriotic citizens against the population structure at the beginning of the last century will help us to understand where the problem began. We’ll also unveil the reason behind tribalism and sectarianism that led to the division in society and crisis of ‘loyalty to the State’. “Hesitating to take a firm decision against a crime well documented with voice, picture and data is unfortunate. The decision makers are obliged to crosscheck registers of the dissolved National Assembly or Internet in search of Safaa Al-Hashim (...)! Minister of Interior saw reality of the disastrous citizenship forgery after he refused to mount a grilling podium and demanded the referral of the request to legislation. “The honorable woman lawmaker had said she possessed relevant documents indicating seven people were languishing in jail for over 10 years, and the minister had refused to prosecute them on accusations of forging data for 62,858 citizenships, which contributed to raise the population of Kuwaitis from 1.149 million to 1.212 million. Can we imagine the rate of crime involved in this issue if information provided is correct?” ❑





“It is unreasonable for Kuwait to own the length and breadth of democratic practice and embark on an anti-corruption crusade when at the same time it remains centralized and corrupt for decades,” Dr Hassan Abdullah Abbas wrote for Al-Anba daily. “To avoid exaggerating the discussion, I want to stick to my right of retaining some introductory sentences. Although Kuwait is among very few countries that practices democracy (partially) compared to other countries in the region, I am not taking this aspect into consideration at all since I am not interested in comparing Kuwait with any countries in the region or far away in the East and West. I do not want to compare Kuwait with countries that have achieved a lot such as Singapore, South Korea, Europe and America. “I know the natural response I would have received is that there is no point in such comparisons, because those countries have attained massive experience in long years of experimenting theories. However, why not? Why can’t we copy them to be like them if the political and social lives will improve for the better? Does any logic teach us that we must start from zero while garnering huge deposit of experience from others, so we can continue from where they stopped by benefitting from their experiences? “I think the response should also include surrendering and accepting fault in the reality and being convinced (unnecessarily) that our terribly corrupt situation is impossible to change.” ❑





“Xenophobia is right here — the rhetoric and allegations that expatriates are the cause for the depletion of state resources and the lopsided population have dramatically increased lately. It has reached to the extent of proposing a ban on expatriates to obtain medicines from government hospitals and clinics in the name of “achieving social justice for citizens”. I cannot help but wonder how social justice can be achieved this way,” Saqer Al-Ghailani wrote for Al-Anba daily. “It does not make sense — what is the connection between expatriates and social justice? Are Kuwaitis deprived of social justice because of expatriates? “Social justice is equality among the segments of a society such that there should be no big differences among these segments, irrespective of nationality and belongingness of an individual. “Here in Kuwait if we compare an expatriate to a citizen in the true sense of social justice, we will see there is no equality at all between the two in many aspects. Take for example salaries. The salary of a Kuwaiti is not at all the same as that of an expatriate, if we compare countries that look for productivity and not nationality. Expatriates do not enjoy the level of housing, education, health and so on that Kuwaitis do. Therefore, there is no point comparing the two and there is certainly no point in raising these xenophobic slogans in the name of social justice.”

— Compiled by Zaki Taleb

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LOCAL

7

Court Cases PAHW blamed for flaws

Court orders pharmacy to pay firm price of medicine By Jaber Al-Hamoud Al-Seyassah Staff KUWAIT CITY, March 22: The Court of First Instance has ordered a pharmacy to pay a general trading and contracting company a sum of KD 11,000, which is the cost of medicines and materials supplied by the company to the pharmacy. According to a lawsuit filed by Lawyer Khawlah Al-Hassawi on behalf of the company, she explained that the pharmacy owed her client the abovementioned amount based on receipts of the medicines and materials presented. The expert report concluded that both parties were interacting purely on commercial purpose. The court accepted the Al-Hassawi report to settle the contentious debt issue. Meanwhile, the Administrative Court cancelled an administrative decision issued against an employee of the Ministry of Justice working as penal provisions executioner, and raised his grade from “good” to excellent subsequent to the employee efficiency evaluation for 2014. On behalf of the complainant, Attorney Khaled Mubarak affirmed that his client was treated unfairly; considering he is hard-working and distinguished in his duty and previous evaluation report did not actually reflect his performance. ❑





PAHW blamed: The Administrative Court has issued a verdict to affirm that the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) and the contracting company which carried out the Northwest Sulaibikhat housing project are responsible for the flaws and damages to the housing units and the

violation of the regulations evident in those distributed housing units. Lawyer Mesfir Al-Ajmi filed a lawsuit against the abovementioned parties on behalf of a Kuwaiti citizen who discovered many defects and damages in the housing unit he was given. Lawyer Al-Ajmi explained that his client complained to PAHW concerning this issue but the latter did not respond which was why his client decided to file the lawsuit. The court was urged to refer the issue to the Experts Department in order to identify those responsible for the damages and defects and then decide on the compensation. Lawyer Al-Ajmi said the experts report estimated the damages in his client’s house cost KD 36,000, as the defects were many and the house was not considered as fit for residence. Lawyer Al-Ajmi said he will file a lawsuit to ensure his client receives compensation of KD 100,000 due to the physical and mental problems he underwent due to this issue. ❑





Dashti case on hold: The Court of Appeals presided over by Justice Nasser Salem Al Heid has stopped looking into the State Security case involving former MP Abdul-Hameed Dashti who was sentenced to 11 years and six months in absentia. The decision follows a petition the Public Prosecution filed to stop looking into the case after expiry of the defendant’s appeal period. The Public Prosecution accused the former MP of statements deemed highly offensive to fellow Gulf States (Saudi Arabia and Bahrain), and endangering Kuwait’s diplomatic ties with the two countries by calling on people to join the Lebanese Shiite Hezbollah militia, and also publishing false news about Kuwait. The former MP was sentenced in absentia to a total jail term of 14 years and six months with hard labor, and fine of KD 2,000 for offending the Public Prosecutor.

A classic pick-up truck stationed in front of Bait Al-Othman Museum. (Ghazi Qaffaf — KUNA)

Nepali citizens caught in major liquor factory bust Theft cases on the rise By Munaif Nayef and Meshal Al-Sanousi Al-Seyassah Staff

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: An unknown individual broke into an expatriate’s apartment in Salmiya area and stole KD 2,300. According to security sources, when the Operations Room of Ministry of Interior received information about the burglary, securitymen rushed to the location with officers from the General Department of Criminal Evidences. The tenant informed securitymen that he and his family were out shopping when the incident occurred, revealing that KD 2,300 is missing. Fingerprints and other evidences were lifted and investigations have been launched to find and arrest the suspect.

MoI photo

Lieutenant Colonel Dr Bader Al-Khubaizi from the Cybercrime Unit affiliated to the General Department of Criminal Investigations at Ministry of Interior Monday delivered a lecture titled ‘Technology and Us Amidst Benefit and Dangers’. The event was organized inside Abdulaziz Hussein Cultural Center by the Child Culture Inspectorate as a part of the 28th Future Generations Exhibition. Several female students from intermediate and secondary schools attended the event.

News in Brief Sheikha touts award: Chairperson of Kuwait Society for the Ideal Family (KSIF) said the Ideal Mother Award played a great role in promoting social values, such as family education, tolerance and citizenship. “The award, being offered by KSIF over the last 12 years, has made outstanding successes thanks to cooperation with Kuwaiti volunteers and a number of competent institutions,” Sheikha Fariha Al- Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah said in statements to KUNA on Tuesday night. She made the comments after a ceremony, held at Dasma Theatre, to honor winners of the Ideal Mother Award 2017. She noted that Sheikha Fariha a galaxy of ideal mothers from Kuwait and other Arab countries have been honored in recognition of their contributions to the welfare of their respective families and societies. “The launching of the award was based on the teachings of noble Islam relating to honoring of parents, particularly the selfless, self-sacrificing mothers,” Sheikha Fariha added. The Kuwaiti winners of the award this year are Faiqa Yossuf Abullatif Al-Isa - the top award, Noura Nasser Al-Mubarak - the second, Dalil Al-Rashed - the third, and the Shamim Mohammad Amir Tawfiqi - the fourth. Khadija Mohammad Jemy, of Morocco, won the ideal expatriate woman award, and Amena Ali Mohammad Al-Omari, of Jordan, won the deal Arab Mother Award, while Noura Ali Jaber, of Qatar, and Sara Ali Jajji Mohammad, of the UAE, share the ideal Gulf woman award. (KUNA) ❑ ❑ ❑

Call to renew deal: One hundred

and twelve special security personnel attended training courses offered by the British Advisory Company for security services at the Kuwait International Airport, reports Al-Shahed daily quoting reliable sources. The sources said the personnel are trained in the area of inspection and operation. According to the Director-General of the Kuwait International Airport Security Department the contract with the British company expires on March 25, 2017, and has recommended extending the contract for three more months. ❑ ❑ ❑

Car rental office cheats: A Kuwaiti has filed a complaint with the Maidan Hawalli Police Station accusing a car rental office of stealing his money, reports Al-Anba daily. In his complaint, the Kuwaiti said he withdrew KD 3,000 from a local bank and when he returned the car to the office he forgot to take the money. The complainant added when he remembered the money, he went to the car but did not find the money. ❑ ❑ ❑

Egyptian held: Security authorities at the Kuwait International Airport have arrested an unidentified Egyptian who was wanted by law for betrayal of trust and committing robberies, reports Al-Anba daily. He was taken into custody upon arrival at the Kuwait International Airport. ❑ ❑ ❑

Meanwhile, an Egyptian expatriate went to Nugra Police Station and reported the theft of his mobile phone and some documents from his vehicle when it was parked in a lot in Hawally area. Investigations have been launched in this regard. Furthermore, an Egyptian woman rushed to Nugra Police Station and reported that she was walking on the roadside when a man inside a vehicle snatched her handbag and drove off. She revealed that her handbag contained her mobile phone, civil ID and KD 20. Necessary action was taken. In addition, a Kuwaiti citizen, accompanied with two men who claimed they are police officers, waylaid an Iraqi expatriate, attacked him and robbed him of his mobile phone and KD 195 in his possession. According to security sources, the victim, when reporting the incident to securitymen, revealed that he knows the citizen who had stopped next to him along with two other individuals, who claimed to be police officers. They then attacked him, took his mobile phone and money and fled from the location. Using the details provided by the victim, securitymen have launched investigations to find and arrest the suspects. ❑





Nepalis arrested: Eight Nepali nationals, six of them wanted for financial offenses, were arrested in a liquor factory raid at Jabriya area. Public Relations and Security Media Department of the Interior Ministry stated security operatives confiscated 2,926 bottles of local liquor ready for sale, in addition to 415 big barrels and four distillers and pipes. The suspects with the items were referred to concerned authorities. ❑





Drug-runner caught: A Bangladeshi expatriate was arrested for delivering drugs by sticking them under

KFSD photo

Lt Gen Khalid Al-Mekrad, other fire officers with the visiting NFPA team.

Fire chief hosts US NFPA team Director General of Fire Service Lieutenant General Khalid Al-Mekrad Wednesday hosted in his office a delegation from the United States National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) led

by Chief Executive Officer Jim Poly at the sidelines of meetings with the Fire Prevention Sector at Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD) on their visit to the country.

The two sides will draft a protocol of cooperation to exchange experiences after deliberating on several other issues of mutual interest.

newspaper boxes fixed outside houses. According to security sources, a Kuwaiti resident of Faiha area caught the suspect stick sachets containing some strange substance under the newspaper boxes and immediately informed securitymen. The latter rushed to the location and examined the sachets to realize the substances are methamphetamine and heroin. They managed to arrest the suspect and referred him to the Drugs Control General Department for investigations.

fic citation. The incident took place in Capital Governorate where the traffic officer ordered the woman to stop her vehicle after he saw her violate traffic rules. When he asked her for her driving license, she confronted the officer verbally and then insulted him. After assuring that the suspect received the citation, the officer went to the police station of the area and lodged a complaint against the woman, accusing her of humiliating him while he was performing his official duties.

arrested a Kuwaiti citizen who was involved in several theft cases. He was referred to the concerned authorities for necessary legal action.





man filed a case against her husband after he threatened to post some of her personal pictures on Snapchat social app if she did not withdraw the divorce case she filed against him. According to the security report, the victim elaborated to securitymen about the threats made by her husband. Securitymen have launched investigations to find and arrest the suspect in order to question him about the matter. ❑







Wife threatened: A Kuwaiti wo-



Traffic cop insulted: A Kuwaiti woman insulted a traffic officer when he stopped her after she committed a traffic violation and issued her a traf-

By Munaif Nayef Al-Seyassah Staff

police have arrested an Asian woman for bootlegging and referred her to the authorities, reports Al-Shahed daily. According to reports the bootlegger attempted to hide when she saw a police patrol and when the police seized her, they found with her a bag containing 48 plastic bottles filled with local liquor.

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: A Jordanian woman lodged a complaint against a Kuwaiti citizen and another Jordanian national operating a real estate office in Hawalli area for cheating. The suspects are said to have cheated the woman of KD 23,000 by convincing her to purchase a flat in Jordan that



zen was arrested for his involvement in several criminal cases. According to sources, Riqqa securitymen were on routine patrol when they suspected a vehicle and ordered the driver to pull over. However, he ignored their orders and fled, forcing securitymen to chase him. Eventually, they managed to force the suspect to stop by shooting in the air and hitting his vehicle. However, the suspect ran and hid inside a diwaniya, but securitymen managed to find and arrest him. Meanwhile, in a press statement issued by Ministry of Interior, the General Department of Public Relations and Security Media explained that Ahmadi securitymen

Real estate office swindles woman

Woman bootlegger: The Hawally



Wanted man held: A Kuwaiti citi-

could be rented for high income. However, she received no proceeds from the investment. Acting on information, detectives arrested the Jordanian and he admitted sharing proceeds from the woman’s investment, worth millions of dinars, with the aforementioned citizen. The two suspects have since been referred for further investigation.







Shop set on fire: Police have arrested two youths — a Kuwaiti and a Saudi — for setting fire to a confectionary shop in Jahra, reports Al-Rai daily. The fire is said to have caused extensive damage and according to the Kuwaiti owner of the shop the two youths came in a car and told the guard of the building ‘Say hello to the owner of the of the shop’, set fire and escaped. Intensive investigations led to the arrest of the arsonists and during interrogation they told police a Syrian paid them KD 300 each to do the job as favor for an inmate of the Central Prison. ❑





Sleuth abused: A police detective has filed a complaint with the Farwaniya police accusing an army officer of humiliating and verbally abusing him while on duty, reports Al-Anba daily. The detective said he suspected the officer and requested him to show his ID, but the latter not only refused but abused him because he was under the influence of alcohol.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LOCAL

8

Other Voices

‘Impossible to stop time’ By Yusuf Awadh Al-Azmi ears, months and days go by, the Y Earth rotates, and humans remain ignorant. Life evolves and man revolves around himself, and he’s ignorant of the direction the compass is leading him! Every now and then, man does not pay attention to his health. Many people, including the writer, deem regular medical check up a luxury. We may not feel the need for the luxury until the hour of need! The same goes for anger. Whoever gets angry unnecessarily only hurts himself! Some people are envious and sadistic to the point that they only desire good things to fill up spaces they specify on the map. Such people are absolutely wrong, because they are no less than a wing of mosquito before the Creator. No matter how far such a person Al-Azmi goes, he will surely return! Let’s talk about caring for the people around us. The daily routine could be normal but life takes a new direction when a person reaches the early stage of old age (they say old age starts at forty). It is then he remembers that advancing in age is a mere routine, and it’s impossible to stop time! Once, I read that ‘forties’ is the ideal age, because it’s the watershed between meeting and farewell. It’s about welcoming life with the first breath and commencing the bid of farewell with breath from age forty upward! A person who starts preparing his legal document containing instructions for the disposition of this or that is

considered a pessimist! Such a person reaches age forty and books the ticket for his final journey with the feeling that life has already ended. I will tell two stories briefly. I know of a person who received his indemnity around thirty nine years old. He used to be sociable, full of smiles and calm prior to the retirement. His situation changed afterward. Perhaps, he felt the end was near! His chin became long and life was restricted from home to the mosque and doing things single-handedly. He denied himself the pleasure of life, as some people believe that grimness and anti-social behavior shows religiosity, but reverse is the case. Pressure creates explosion, while inhibition often leads to destruction. He changed over a short period! Regardless of the reason for his negative change of attitude, it establishes the fact that nature dominates adaptability, and affectation is not permanent. It would have been better for him to return to his pre-retirement character and situation, but his character became precarious. This is an example of a failed man! The entire world knows the other story. He is the Kentucky Food Company owner who took the first step to establish Kentucky at age fifty and above. He has a chain of restaurants now. Which person among us has never tasted his tasty fried chicken? Finally, live your life to satisfy yourself and not others, because you will be accountable for your deeds before Allah the Almighty, and not the deeds of others. The world is large enough for each and everyone. Do not be afraid of growing old. Perhaps, the best is yet to come. Smile and worry less. As the sun set yesterday, the sun will shine better tomorrow ... ❑ ❑ ❑ Twitter@alzmi1969

Indian in sudden death

Kuwaiti perishes in car mishap By Munaif Nayef Al-Seyassah Staff KUWAIT CITY, March 22: A Kuwaiti citizen in his 20s died after crashing his Saudi registered vehicle into the wall of a house in Mubarak Al-Kabeer area. Security sources said the Operations Room of the Interior Ministry received information about the incident and dispatched a team of rescue men to the scene. He had already succumbed to injuries sustained as a result of the crash. His vehicle was bearing a Saudi number plate. The re-

mains were taken to Forensics by Criminal Evidences Men. Meanwhile, a Kuwaiti citizen sustained various degrees of injuries in a two-vehicle collision on Salmi Motorway. He was referred to Jahra Hospital for treatment. The remains of an unidentified Indian who died on his way to the Shamiya polyclinic have been referred to Forensics to identify the cause of death, reports Al-Rai daily. The victim reportedly complained of pain and his friend rushed him to the clinic but he died on the way.

Staff pose for a picture at the Azzour Power and Water plant. Shamal Azzour Al-Oula marks World Water Day.

‘Sustainable growth targets water quality improvement’ Shamal Azzour Al-Oula marks World Water Day KUWAIT CITY, March 22, (KUNA): One of the main targets of global sustainability is water quality improvement through reducing pollution, stopping disposal of wastes and chemicals, preventing chemical spills, minimizing wastewater, and recycling wastewater safely, Minister of Oil, Electricity, and Water Essam AlMarzouq said Wednesday. Al-Marzouq made his remarks in his speech during the ministry’s marking of World Water Day, themed “Wasted Water”, noting that this year’s celebration highlights wastewater’s significance as a non-traditional water resource, and focuses on minimizing and sound recycling of wastewater. Kuwait’s efforts, through its various

institutions, continue to protect and preserve the environment by treating and reclaiming of wastewater, the minister noted, affirming his ministry’s efforts in keeping up with ongoing growth and development of the country’s residential and logistic projects. The high demand on water is expected in increase within the next five years, Al-Marzouq said, adding that the ministry has made future plans to meet the country’s water needs, including the reverse osmosis system at Doha water desalination plant that will increase production capacity from 580 million imperial gallons per day to 700 million imperial gallons per day. ❑ ❑ ❑ Shamal Azzour Al-Oula KSC, the owner and operator of Azzour North One Power and Water Plant, today marked the United Nations World Water Day 2017 by highlighting the need for people to use the resource of clean water responsibly, and understand the cost and impact on resources that is incurred to ensure that clean water is freely available in arid countries such as Kuwait. Officially designated by the United

Nations General Assembly in 1993 and held annually on March 22, World Water Day brings attention to the importance of freshwater and advocates for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This year’s theme is “wastewater” and focuses on the need to reduce and reuse it in our homes, cities, industry and agriculture; working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all. Taking action to make a difference and reiterating its commitment towards clean water responsibility in Kuwait, Shamal Azzour North’s new facility advocates for a sustainable future. Since it started operations November 2016, the facility uses a process of thermal desalination to produce high quality potable water from seawater and provides power and water to the Ministry of Electricity and Water under a long-term offtake agreement. Shamal Azzour North CEO, Andy Biffen said, “Whilst the process we use to produce potable water is one of the leading technologies in the world, we should not forget the costs which are incurred to build these facilities and also the ongoing costs to provide fuel

operations and maintenance. Responsible use of water is something we can all practice, whether it is for our home consumption or within an industrial or commercial application. Despite there being little or no natural water sources in Kuwait, Kuwait’s water consumption is among the highest in the world with per capita consumption averaging 450 litres per day. With our new facility we hope to encourage others to take more responsible water-usage practices and make every day World Water Day.” Shamal Azzour Al-Oula is 40% owned by a private consortium comprising ENGIE (formerly GDF SUEZ), Sumitomo Corporation, and A.H. Al Sagar & Brothers. The remaining 60%, owned by the Government of Kuwait, through the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA: 5%), the Public Institution for Social Security (PIFSS: 5%) and Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects (KAPP: 50%). The Government of Kuwait is mandated to sell 50% of the total ownership through an Initial Public Offering (IPO) to Kuwaiti citizens after construction is completed. The government will retain 10% stake following the IPO.

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LOCAL/GULF

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Kuwait to implement publication of periodic report

GCC eGov meeting approves 5 vital e-services MANAMA, March 22, (KUNA): The fifth GCC eGovernment Ministerial Committee meeting has approved five vital joint eServices between the Council’s States, aiming at facilitating services for Gulf citizens, a senior Kuwaiti official said Wednesday. These services are a preliminary to several coming ones that would contribute to enhancing

eGov and, thus, facilitating government procedures and measures via electronic communication, Qusai Al-Shatti, Director-General of the Central Agency for Information Technology (CAIT), told KUNA. They include facilitating traveling in GCC airports via ePassport gates, entry Visa for companions of GCC citizens of GCC coun-

tries, establishment and management of commercial activities owned by GCC nationals, exchange traffic violations between the GCC countries, and pension and retirement services in the GCC countries, said Al-Shatti. The meeting also launched the “IP Reputation” system led by the UAE Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), which is

the first of the initiatives of the guiding strategy for cybersecurity and safety, he noted. The Kuwaiti official also pointed out a number of initiatives that were approved during the meeting, including publication of a periodic report, to be implemented by Kuwait in the coming period, that highlights latest GCC eGov achievements.

Campaign to ‘elevate’ agricultural practices among Kuwait residents UN-Habitat and Biohydro launch ‘Hasadd’ awareness KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Biohydro Kuwait announced today the launch of ‘Hasadd’, a two- month awareness campaign conceived to elevate sustainable urban agricultural practices amongst Kuwait’s residents, at the launch of the “Organic Hydroponics and Sustainability” seminar at Al Shaheed Park. Photos from the UN-Habitat and Biohydro Hasadd Awareness Campaign.

Officials attending Gulf Statistical Forum in Riyadh.

GCC industrial data announced

GOIC takes part in first Gulf Stats Forum meet RIYADH, March 22: The Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting (GOIC) participated in the 1st Gulf Statistical Forum held under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in Riyadh. The Forum was entitled: “Strengthening Statistical Partnerships to Support Economic Policies and Sustainable Development in the GCC.” It was organised by the General Authority for Statistics and the GCC Statistical Centre (GCC-Stat), in addition to international and regional stakeholders. During the forum, his Excellency Abdulaziz Bin Hamad Al-Ageel, GOIC Secretary-General, announced the latest data on GCC industrial activities. He explained that investments were worth $394.9 billion and there were 17,596 factories employing approximately 1,663.9 thousand workers in this area.

Revealed GOIC Secretary-General said GOIC’s IMI Plus data revealed that 3,125 factories operated in the manufacture of metal products (except machinery and equipment), followed by 2,978 factories in the manufacture of non-metallic mineral products, 2,025 factories in the manufacture of rubber and plastics products, and then the remaining areas. According to Al-Ageel’s data, the biggest share of cumulative investments went to the manufacture of chemicals and chemical products with investments worth $110.6 billion, followed by the manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products ($98.9 bil-

lion), the manufacture of basic metals (approximately $59.0 billion), the manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products (around $40.2 billion) and then the rest of industries. Furthermore, Al-Ageel highlighted that the Gulf industrial sector offered job opportunities to approximately 1,663.9 thousand workers, most of them (16.7 percent) in the manufacture of other non-metallic mineral products with 278.4 thousand workers, followed by the manufacture of metal products (except machinery and equipment) with 255.7 thousand workers, the manufacture of food products with 194.6 thousand workers, the manufacture of rubber and plastics with 137.4 thousand workers, and then the remaining industries. As to factories, Al-Ageel said they varied between small, medium and big enterprises. In details, there were 11,969 small, 2,701 medium and 2,926 big factories in the GCC in 2016. The largest share of big and medium factories went to Saudi Arabia with 1,774 big and 1,531 medium factories, while the UAE had the biggest share of small factories (5,433), followed by Oman with 1,284 factories. In this regard, GOIC takes into account the unified invested capital as a criterion to distinguish between types of Gulf industries, after carrying out a thorough review of the components of GCC manufacturing industries. Consequently, small industries have less than $2 million invested in each of them, medium industries have a capital of two to $6 million each, while big industries receive six millions and more worth of investments.

News in Brief KUNA chief visits Beirut:

Late Al-Shatti to be honored:

Chairman of the Board and Director General of Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) Sheikh Mubarak Al-Duaij Al-Sabah visited Tuesday the agency’s Beirut bureau. Sheikh Mubarak Al-Duaij and accompanying delegation were received by head of the bureau Farah Al-Faraj and staff. (KUNA) ❑ ❑ ❑

The First International Theatrical Seminar in honor of late Director Fouad Al-Shatti will kick off April 6-9 under the auspices of HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber AlMubarak, reports Al-Seyassah daily. The seminar initiated by the most prominent personalities of Arab and Gulf Theater is in appreciation for Al-Shatti’s tremendous contribution in the field of art.

Eng Hamad Al-Kulaib, Founder and CEO of Biohydro Kuwait said, “Hasadd Awareness Campaign, in collaboration with UN-Habitat, aims to engage local residents in conversations about sustainable practices and shed light on Mother Earth’s plea on her special day while raising knowledge about the country’s newly implemented environmental laws.” Hasadd’s Organic Hydroponics and Sustainability- Truth or Fiction? discussions started with “bioponics” patent holder William Texier introducing the concept of “organic hydroponics” and the importance of closed living food cycles for food production. Al-Kulaib will subsequently raise questions regarding current notions of sustainability in Kuwait’s highly irradiated and arid climate that will be followed by a discussion session attended by decision makers in governmental scientific institutions and their respective NGO arms. The two-month campaign is split into two phases, with the first phase focusing on awareness and capacity building among the youths by involving them in lectures and debates with international environmentalists, while the second phase emphasizes the technical application of hydroponics and Hasadd’s elements of “You Plant, You Grow, You Protect and You Enjoy”. The workshops aim to simplify sustainable growing methods for members of society especially those with special needs, equipping them with 6 months’ worth of growing tools, in order to empower them to become proud contributors of the sustainable community. Dalal Al-Radhi, UN-Habitat’s Partnership and Advocacy Associate said, Habitat finds this initiative a form of cultivations for youths in teaching them the foundations of home growing as part of Habitat’s New Urban Agenda in promoting green cities and environmental sustainability. The highlight of the campaign will be a celebration of Mother Nature on ‘International Mother Earth Day’ with programs designed to boost Kuwait’s contribution towards nature conservations on a global scale, in partnership with Conservation International (CI). Hasadd’s four main target audience segments begins with household families and local SME’s, teaching them sustainable methods of growing indoors and helping them successfully to commercialize hydroponics within Kuwaiti market dynamics. Whereas, other segments targets academia and environmental authorities, and persons with disabilities. Workshop participants will share stories of successes and failures and the joys of growing after their 22 days of harvesting experience at home with Biohydro-provided systems sponsored by the Ministry of State for Youth Affairs. The Events on April 23, 2017: I Heard Mother Earth Day Seed Swap In coordination with the EPA and the Ministry of Interior – Environmental Police, the seed swap will highlight the importance of surrounding native flora trade and CITES’ endangered species. The rules of the swap will ensure collectors know the purpose of the law and its do’s and don’ts. Hear Nature With the coordination and ap-

Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor meeting with former Danish PM Helle Thorning-Schmidt.

Impact of war on children discussed

Al Habtoor receives ex-Danish PM DUBAI, March 22: Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founding Chairman, Al Habtoor Group welcomed Helle ThorningSchmidt, the former prime minister of Denmark at the Al Habtoor Group head office. Helle Thorning-Schmidt is the CEO of Save the Children International. They discussed the impact of war on children and humanitarian efforts conducted by Save the Children to help people suffering around the world because of conflict. Thorning-Schmidt is in Dubai to attend the Dubai International Humanitarian Aid and Development conference and exhibition (DIHAD), a two-day effect, currently taking place at the Dubai World

Trade Centre under the theme ‘The impact of crisis and disasters on children’. Thorning-Schmidt said that some 50 million children around the world are suffering as a result of conflict and war, with many not surviving past the age of five years old. She emphasized that if things don’t change soon it would take 400 years to alleviate extreme world poverty. She said that Save the Children is focusing on three key issues as part of the United Nations sustainable development goals; preventable diseases, quality education and to ensure that all children are protected and free from violence. Al Habtoor, a well-known philan-

thropist who has a foundation in his name — The Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor Foundation — said he is committed to collaborate with Save the Children International. “Children are innocent victims of war. Leaders of war-torn countries or countries impacted by conflicts, have a duty to protect their citizens, particularly defenseless children,” he said. “What hope they have if they are denied their basic rights because of war? Once the war is over, the scars do not go away.” Thorning-Schmidt, who served as prime minister of Denmark from 2011 to 2015, said the top priority for refugees after shelter is to provide children with an education.

Poses risk to millions of users’ personal data

1 in 4 Wi-Fi hotspots waiting to be hacked DUBAI, March 22: After analyzing information on more than 31 million Wi-Fi hotspots around the world, Kaspersky Lab has found that every fourth (28%) is unsecured and poses a risk to users’ personal data. That means all the traffic transmitted over those networks, including personal messages, passwords, documents and much more, can be easily intercepted and used by attackers. According to Kaspersky Security Network , 25% of the world’s Wi-Fi networks have no encryption or password protection of any kind. In other words, the information they transmit is completely open and can be read by third parties. Another 3% of hotspots use WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) to encrypt data. This unreliable protocol can be “cracked” within minutes using tools that are freely available on the Internet. The rest of the nearly three-quarters of Wi-Fi hotspots use a more reliable form of encryption based on the family of Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) protocols. The effort required to hack these networks depends on the settings, including the strength of the password. For instance, if it’s a weak or publicly accessible password (e.g.,

on display in a cafe), a criminal will also be able to decrypt any transmitted traffic. It’s worth noting that the top 20 countries with the highest percentage of non-encrypted Wi-Fi hotspots includes many popular tourist destinations – Thailand, France, Israel, the US and so on. Travelers are among the most vulnerable because the nearest available Wi-Fi hotspot is often the only way for them to stay connected. At the same time, another study suggests only 52% of Internet users in the UAE are concerned about their data being intercepted during a Wi-Fi session. “We advise all users to remain vigilant when connecting to WiFi. Don’t use hotspots without passwords and don’t use public hotspots to perform high-risk activities such as online banking or shopping, logging on to sites or for transferring confidential information. “If that sort of traffic is intercepted by a third party, it could result in serious losses, including financial losses. “And of course, we strongly recommend using additional measures to protect traffic, such as VPN

(Virtual Private Network) technology,” explains Denis Legezo, Antivirus Expert at Kaspersky Lab. The flagship solutions Kaspersky Internet Security and Kaspersky Total Security now integrate the new Secure Connection feature that encrypts all data sent and received over a communication channel. Depending on the user settings, Secure Connection can be run automatically when attempting to connect to an unsecured network, or when performing potentially vulnerable operations online. Kaspersky Lab is one of the world’s fastest-growing cybersecurity companies and the largest that is privately owned. The company is ranked among the world’s top four vendors of security solutions for endpoint users (IDC, 2014). Since 1997 Kaspersky Lab has been an innovator in cybersecurity and provides effective digital security solutions and threat intelligence for large enterprises, SMBs and consumers. Kaspersky Lab is an international company, operating in almost 200 countries and territories across the globe, providing protection for over 400 million users worldwide.

proval of Conversation International, Arabic-subtitled “Nature is Speaking” films will be shown in different zones thought the Park on Earth Day, and spectators will sign pledges on the I Heard Nature signboard. #AfterTheLastTree The exhibit will showcase the stark future vision of a world with-

out trees, intending to move spectators into introspection and action on climate change and its fast approaching, irreversible effects on the world as we know it. Hasadd Awareness Campaign sustainable agriculture, to spur healthy dialogue, surrounding nature and our behavior towards it and empowering inclusivity.

Eng Al-Kulaib, ended by saying, our responsibility towards future generations dictates the vision of our human advancement and observation of Mother Earth’s 4 billion year track record of sustainable living, ensuring that our inherited state of living of what is better rather than worse.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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World News Roundup Cyber ‘Attack not child’s play’

Tech firms seeking to protect election FRANKFURT/AMSTERDAM, March 22, (RTRS): Google and sister company Jigsaw are joining forces to defend election organisers and civic groups against cyber attacks free of charge as the broader tech industry seeks to fend off criticism that it is not doing enough to stop online efforts to distort elections. The growing frequency of politically-motivated online attacks — from the recent hacking of Twitter accounts by Turkish nationalists to the US Democratic Party’s email breach — has left governments and pro-democracy groups scrambling for ways to thwart hackers and the rising tide of “fake” news. Alphabet Inc subsidiaries Jigsaw and Google are offering a free Protect Your Election package to lowBlanken budget organisations. The service to ward off website attacks has already been offered to news organisations for the past year under what is known as Project Shield. Last week Jigsaw, which develops security tools for civic groups, joined up with Google to defend a voter information website that came under cyber attack during the Dutch national election. The KiesKompas and Stemwijzer websites — used by about half of Dutch voters to see which parties best match their political views — were knocked out by a deluge of web traffic on March 14, which spilled over into election day. “The attack was not child’s play: it was very sophisticated because the attackers kept trying different avenues of attack again and again,” said KiesKompas director Willem Blanken. KiesKompas, which rougly translates as ChoiceCompass, enlisted the help of Jigsaw on the evening of March 14, while Stemwijzer, or VoteGuide, signed up NBIP, a non-profit group set up by about 100 Dutch internet and telecoms providers. The election guide services remained out of action on the morning of the vote, but both were successfully restored to service around midday.

Democracy The rise of Google and tech rival Facebook was welcomed as a gift to democracy and free speech against autocratic governments. More recently, however, there has been a growing backlash against fake news on social media, which has polarised political debate, and the failure to stop extremist groups using their networks to spread propaganda and find new recruits. Google vowed on Tuesday to police its websites better by ramping up staff numbers and overhauling its policies after several companies deserted the internet giant for failing to keep their adverts off hate-filled videos. A spokesman for Jigsaw said on Tuesday that it plans to offer the Protect Your Election suite free to individuals and organisations involved in forthcoming national votes in France, South Korea and Germany and subsequent elections as they occur. Jigsaw is funded by Alphabet and remains autonomous from Google, though the sister companies work together on larger-scale projects. Project Shield defends against so-called Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks that have plagued the web since about 2000 and which government and commercial experts say have intensified over the past year. Such attacks have targeted not only political parties, but also election monitors and independent news organisations in Myanmar (2010), Malaysia (2013), Ecuador (2015), Mexico (20152016), Montenegro (2016) and the Netherlands (2017). Intruders Hundreds of companies compete to protect websites from intruders, including Clouldflare, Akamai and Imperva Incapsula. Basic measures are often free and more robust safeguards can cost hundreds of dollars a month. However, sustained high-volume attacks at decisive moments during elections can quickly run up thousands of dollars in bills — a big stretch for civic groups with minimal funding. In addition to Project Shield, Jigsaw is offering Password Alert to ward off attempts to steal Google passwords and Two-Step Verification for an added layer of protection on web and mobile accounts as part of its Protect Your Election toolkit. News websites, human rights websites and election monitoring and information websites are eligible to apply for DDoS protection, the Jigsaw spokesman said. Candidates and campaigns are eligible for the two-password protection tools, but not the free DDoS protection. More details can be found at: https://g.co/protectyourelection This starter set of security tools offer baseline protection but can only go so far in thwarting the dizzying array of political shenanigans that now play out in cyberspace. They could do little, for example, to ward off the hijacking of high-profile Twitter accounts by a Turkish nationalist hacker group that took place as the Dutch voted last week and attracted widespread media attention. These attacks involved hacking into an Amsterdam-based social media analytics company to post anti-Dutch and anti-German messages amid a diplomatic spat with Turkey. Officials at the Dutch election guides said that web traffic on their sites appeared to come from various nations but the identity of the attackers remains a mystery. Several of the officials denied a De Telegraaf report that Turkey was behind the attacks. “There’s just nothing to substantiate that. We simply don’t know,” KiesKompas director Blanken said.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., joined by Sen John Barrasso, R-Wyo, (left), and Sen John Thune, R-S.D., takes questions from reporters about the Republican healthcare bill on March 21, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP)

HealthCare GOP leaders boost pressure as crunch time nears

Trump seeks health bill triumph Arkansas Gov Asa Hutchinson speaks in the governor’s conference room inside the state Capitol in Little Rock on March 21, before signing a bill moving the state’s Robert E. Lee holiday to October. Until Hutchison signed the bill, Arkansas had celebrated Lee and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr, on the same day in January. A portrait of Hutchinson’s predecessor, Gov Mike Beebe, hangs above the fireplace. (AP)

Guzman

Zubaidah

America Row over Chapo jail conditions: US prosecutors and lawyers for Mexican drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman are sparring over jail conditions that the lawyers claim are so stressful he’s hallucinating about music. The claim was contained in a defense filing last week that asked US District Judge Brian Cogan to order Guzman released from an ultra high-security wing of a Manhattan jail that’s housed alleged terrorists and mobsters, and be allowed in the general inmate population and receive more visitors. The government fired back on Tuesday by arguing that the tough conditions — known as Special Administrative Measures — are appropriate for someone who escaped twice from prison in Mexico, including once through a mile-long tunnel dug to the shower in his cell. Prosecutors said that even while he was behind bars in Mexico, Guzman used coded messages, bribes and other means to control his Sinaloa cartel and orchestrate his breakouts. “Indeed, if there were ever a case warranting SAMs, it is this one,” prosecutors said. Guzman, 59, was brought to the United States in January to face charges that he oversaw a multi-billion dollar international drug trafficking operation responsible for murders and kidnappings. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

WASHINGTON, March 22, (AP): President Donald Trump’s pitch on a polarizing Republican health care bill in the House amounts to a means to an end: a way to move on to what he calls “the biggest tax cut since Ronald Reagan.” Backed by pro-business elements of his party, Trump has increasingly argued that the repeal and replacement of former President Barack Obama’s health care law is a necessary step along the road to other parts of his first-year agenda. In both his public pitches and private meetings with House Republicans to secure passage, Trump appears ready to move on. “After we repeal and replace Obamacare, our Republican majority will pass massive, historic tax reform, the biggest tax cut since Ronald Reagan — and potentially even bigger,” Trump said Tuesday night at a fundraiser for the National Republican Congressional Committee. Trump said they had to start with health care but spoke of a tax overhaul in almost giddy terms: “That one’s going to be fun. That’s called the wheelhouse.” Trump’s eager anticipation of the next item on his agenda is a response to how difficult this one has been. The health care debate has been more contentious, divisive and less politically popular than many Republicans anticipated. Although the party has been long unified in pushing for repeal of Obamacare, it was not united behind an alternative. The process has exposed persistent divisions between conservatives and moderate Republicans, and highlighted the political perils in scaling back government’s role in providing health care. By comparison, even tax reform — a complex and politically tricky exercise — can start to look easy. Trump’s first major hurdle on health care comes in a Thursday House vote. Failure to pass the bill, which was largely drafted by House Speaker Paul Ryan, could spell doom for Trump’s central campaign promise to rip apart former President Barack Obama’s health law. Rebellion among House Republicans also would undercut Trump’s image as a dealmaker, jeopardizing his ability to muscle through tax reform, infrastructure projects, immigration and other issues. A senior administration official said Hauterman was 19 years old when he was reported missing in action during the fighting withdrawal of the 31st Regimental Combat Team from the Chosin Reservoir

‘Legacy’ of Ryan as speaker on line with health care vote WASHINGTON, March 22, (AP): The vote on the Republican health care bill is a defining moment for House Speaker Paul Ryan that could boost his aggressive agenda to overhaul the tax code and remake the federal government. Or send it off the rails. If he fails? “It will be very hard to manage this,” the Wisconsin Republican told reporters ahead of Thursday’s likely vote. The bill to repeal major parts of Barack Obama’s Affordable Care Act, cap future funding for Medicaid and reverse tax increases on the wealthy is the kind of high-impact legislation that has become rare in a Congress that sometimes struggles with the routine like keeping the government open. Highlighting the urgency of passing the bill, President Donald Trump spent some of his own political capital Tuesday when he visited Capitol Hill to urge House Republicans to vote for it. Trump warned GOP lawmakers that they could lose their majorities in the

House and Senate in the 2018 midterm elections if they renege on promises to repeal and replace Obama’s signature health law. “If it fails, then there will be a lot of people looking for work in 2018,” said Rep Mike Conaway, R-Texas. “This is a domino effect. If we don’t get this done, then you don’t move to tax reform with the same kind of oomph,” Conaway added. “This is the first big test that we’ve got to get done and that’s pretty clear to most everybody.” Success has consequences, too, because Republicans would then own America’s health care system. Ryan, his party’s vice presidential nominee in 2012 and perhaps a future White House hopeful, understands the stakes, calling the vote “a rendezvous with destiny.” Some conservative House members think the health bill is too much government regulation and too generous. Many of these same lawmakers essentially forced out Ryan’s predecessor as speaker, John Boehner of Ohio.

the White House remained cautiously optimistic that the bill will clear the House on Thursday. Trump’s advisers are trying to persuade about 20 to 25 House Republicans who are either opposed to the plan or remain undecided, the official said. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations, said the administration is aiming for House passage Thursday to ensure the bill will be considered by the Senate prior to the Easter recess in Congress that begins April 10. The Republican bill has generated plenty of opposition. Members of the hard-line House Freedom Caucus oppose it because they say it doesn’t go far enough to undo Obamacare. Some moderate GOP members, meanwhile, are wary of a recent Congressional Budget Office analysis predicting 24 million people would lose coverage in a decade.

Meanwhile, Trump and House leaders are revving up pressure on balky conservatives and other Republican lawmakers as crunch time approaches on the party’s health care overhaul bill, a drive GOP leaders concede they can’t afford to lose. “If we keep our promise, people will reward us,” House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., told reporters Tuesday of GOP vows to demolish former President Barack Obama’s health care law that the GOP has assailed since its enactment in 2010. “If we don’t keep our promise, it will be very hard to manage this,” the speaker said. “Honestly, a loss is not acceptable, folks,” Trump told lawmakers at a closed-door Capitol meeting with House Republicans. He warned they’d face widespread defeats in next year’s elections and possible loss of control of the chamber if the measure failed.

in Dec 1950, military officials said. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Teen denied flight to US: A 17-year-

Remains of soldier returning home: The remains of an Army medic from Massachusetts who was reported missing in action during the Korean War in 1950 are returning home for burial, military officials said Tuesday. Cpl Jules Hauterman Jr. is scheduled to be buried in Holyoke on March 31 with full military honors, according to the Pentagon’s Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. Hauterman, of Hampden, will be buried in the family plot with his parents and sister, said David Stuntz, whose 94-year-old mother is Hauterman’s cousin. “This means a great deal to my mother because the family is complete again,” Stuntz said. “My mother is his closest living relative.” Stuntz, who was a child when Hauterman went missing, has no memories of him but remembers vague family stories. “He was a nice young man, I heard, and when he died, his mother withdrew, went into her own cave,” he said.

Iraq’s Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi (center), poses for a photo on March 21, with (from left), Sen Joe Donnelly, D-Ind., Sen Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., Sen Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., Sen Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., Sen Ben Cardin, D-Md., and Sen Tim Kaine, D-Va., during a visit to Capitol Hill in Washington. (AP)

old Tennessee girl was denied a flight back to the United States over the weekend because a Turkish airline didn’t provide necessary passenger information, but a resolution is expected shortly, the Transportation Security Administration said Tuesday. In Facebook posts, Sabrina Sadaf Siddiqi said her daughter, Zubaidah Alizoti, was denied a flight home Sunday after the family and friends visited Makkah, the Muslim holy site in Saudi Arabia. The incident unfolded amid heightened scrutiny of President Donald Trump’s push to severely limit travel from several Muslim-majority countries, which multiple courts have blocked. After Alizoti was denied her flight, the TSA got the information it needed from the airline and expects a resolution shortly, agency spokeswoman Sari Koshetz said. Turkish Airlines didn’t directly answer questions about the issue. Siddiqi wrote that family members stayed with Alizoti when she couldn’t board the plane. She asked for prayers as the family tries again to fly home from Turkey to Atlanta on Wednesday. “International carriers are tasked with providing security information to the federal government before a passenger can fly into the United States,” Koshetz said via email. “That did not happen in this case.” (AP)

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Politics Work appears to contradict assertions

‘Manafort had a plan to benefit Putin govt’ WASHINGTON, March 22, (AP): President Donald Trump’s former campaign chairman, Paul Manafort, secretly worked for a Russian billionaire to advance the interests of Russian President Vladimir Putin a decade ago and proposed an ambitious political strategy to undermine antiRussian opposition across former Soviet republics, The Associated Press has learned. The work appears to contradict assertions by the Trump administration and Manafort himself that he never worked for Russian interests. Manafort proposed in a confidential strategy plan as early as June 2005 that he would Putin influence politics, business dealings and news coverage inside the United States, Europe and the former Soviet republics to benefit the Putin government, even as USRussia relations under Republican President George W. Bush grew worse. Manafort pitched the plans to Russian aluminum magnate Oleg Deripaska, a close Putin ally with whom Manafort eventually signed a $10 million annual contract beginning in 2006, according to interviews with several people familiar with payments to Manafort and business records obtained by the AP. Manafort and Deripaska maintained a business relationship until at least 2009, according to one person familiar with the work. “We are now of the belief that this model can greatly benefit the Putin Government if employed at the correct levels with the appropriate commitment to success,” Manafort wrote in the 2005 memo to Deripaska. The effort, Manafort wrote, “will be offering a great service that can re-focus, both internally and externally, the policies of the Putin government.” Manafort’s plans were laid out in documents obtained by the AP that included strategy memoranda and records showing international wire transfers for millions of dollars. How much work Manafort performed under the contract was unclear. The disclosure comes as Trump campaign advisers are the subject of an FBI probe and two congressional investigations. Investigators are reviewing whether the Trump campaign and its associates coordinated with Moscow to meddle in the 2016 campaign. Manafort has dismissed the investigations as politically motivated and misguided. The documents obtained by AP show Manafort’s ties to Russia were closer than previously revealed.

Campaign In a statement to the AP, Manafort confirmed that he worked for Deripaska in various countries but said the work was being unfairly cast as “inappropriate or nefarious” as part of a “smear campaign.” “I worked with Oleg Deripaska almost a decade ago representing him on business and personal matters in countries where he had investments,” Manafort said. “My work for Deripaska did not involve representing Russia’s political interests.” Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., one of Trump’s critics in the Senate, called the disclosures about payments to Manafort from the Russian billionaire “very disturbing if true.” “That’s basically taking money to stop the spread of democracy, and that would be very disturbing to me,” he said Wednesday on Capitol Hill. Democrats on the House intelligence committee said the new revelations will feature in the congressional investigations. Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif., said on MSNBC on Wednesday that Manafort should appear before the committee, and he raised the specter of a subpoena should Manafort not appear on his own. Another member of the intelligence committee, Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif., said the disclosure “undermines the groundless assertions that the administration has been making that there are no ties between President Trump and Russia. This is not a drip, drip, drip” situation, she said. “This is now dam-breaking with water flushing out with all kinds of entanglements.” Deripaska became one of Russia’s wealthiest men under Putin, buying assets abroad in ways widely perceived to benefit the

Kremlin’s interests. US diplomatic cables from 2006 described Deripaska as “among the 2-3 oligarchs Putin turns to on a regular basis” and “a more-or-less permanent fixture on Putin’s trips abroad.” In response to questions about Manafort’s consulting firm, a spokesman for Deripaska in 2008 — at least three years after they began working together — said Deripaska had never hired the firm. Another Deripaska spokesman in Moscow last week declined to answer AP’s questions. When asked Wednesday about Manafort’s work for Deripaska, White House spokeswoman Sarah Huckabee Sanders said, “We do not feel it’s appropriate to comment on someone who is not an employee at the White House,” although Press Secretary Sean Spicer discussed Manafort earlier this week during a televised news briefing. Manafort worked as Trump’s unpaid campaign chairman last year from March until August, a period that included the Republican National Convention that nominated Trump in July. Trump asked Manafort to resign after AP revealed that Manafort had orchestrated a covert Washington lobbying operation until 2014 on behalf of Ukraine’s ruling proRussian political party.

US President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, on March 21, during a signing ceremony for a bill to increase NASA’s budget to $19.5 billion and directs the agency to focus human exploration of deep space and Mars. (AP)

Immigration 1 in 3 US Muslims fear for safety: poll

LA expands immigrant protections

Records The newly obtained business records link Manafort more directly to Putin’s interests in the region. According to those records and people with direct knowledge of Manafort’s work for Deripaska, Manafort made plans to open an office in Moscow, and at least some of his work in Ukraine was directed by Deripaska, not local political interests there. The Moscow office never opened. Manafort has been a leading focus of the US intelligence investigation of Trump’s associates and Russia, according to a US official. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because details of the investigation are confidential. Meanwhile, federal criminal prosecutors became interested in Manafort’s activities years ago as part of a broad investigation to recover stolen Ukraine assets after the ouster of pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych there in early 2014. No US criminal charges have ever been filed in the case. FBI Director James Comey, in confirming to Congress the federal intelligence investigation this week, declined to say whether Manafort was a target. Manafort’s name was mentioned 28 times during the hearing of the House intelligence committee, mostly about his work in Ukraine. No one mentioned Deripaska. On Monday, Spicer had singled out Manafort when asked about possible campaign contacts with Russia. He said Manafort “played a very limited role for a very limited amount of time” in the campaign, even though as Trump’s presidential campaign chairman he led it during the crucial run-up to the Republican National Convention. Manafort and his associates remain in Trump’s orbit. Manafort told a colleague this year that he continues to speak with Trump by telephone. Manafort’s former business partner in eastern Europe, Rick Gates, has been seen inside the White House on a number of occasions. Gates has since helped plan Trump’s inauguration and now runs a nonprofit organization, America First Policies, to back the White House agenda. Gates, whose name does not appear in the documents, told the AP that he joined Manafort’s firm in 2006 and was aware Manafort had a relationship with Deripaska but was not aware of the work described in the memos. Gates said his work was focused on domestic US lobbying and political consulting in Ukraine at the time. He said he stopped working for Manafort’s firm in March 2016 when he joined Trump’s presidential campaign. Manafort told Deripaska in 2005 that he was pushing policies as part of his work in Ukraine “at the highest levels of the US government — the White House, Capitol Hill and the State Department,” according to the documents. He also said he had hired a “leading international law firm with close ties to President Bush to support our client’s interests,” but he did not identify the firm. Manafort also said he was employing unidentified legal experts for the effort at leading universities and think tanks, including Duke University, New York University and the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

In this Feb 6, 2017 file photo, Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck speaks at a news conference in Los Angeles. Beck said on March 21, that reports of sexual assault and domestic violence by Latino residents have dropped amid concerns that those in the country illegally could face deportation if they interact with police. He said that sexual assault reports have dropped 25 percent and domestic violence reports have fallen 10 percent among the city’s Latino population since the beginning of the year. (AP)

America US pulls out of rights panel: The United States pulled out of a regional hearing held on Tuesday to discuss the possible effects on human rights from executive orders signed by US President Donald Trump targeting immigrants and refugees, organizers said. The hearing by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), created by the 35-nation Organization of American States (OAS) to protect human rights in the Americas, follows concerns over the impact of three executive orders signed by Trump, including plans to build a wall on the border with Mexico. The US government has appealed a federal judge’s halt on Trump’s ban on refugees and travelers from six predominantly Muslim countries. Trump said the ban was needed to protect the country from Islamist militants but immigration advocates said it discriminated against Muslims. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ SC nominee unscathed: Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch enters the third day of his confirmation hearing — and his final day of testimony — largely unscathed by Democratic attacks, as Republicans confidently predict he will win Senate approval despite liberal opposition. A growing number of Democrats, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York and Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, are calling for Gorsuch’s confirmation to be delayed because of the FBI investigation of ties between Donald Trump’s presidential campaign and Russia. But Judiciary Chairman Chuck Grassley of Iowa dismissed that demand as “ridiculous,” and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky told The Associated Press: “Gorsuch will be confirmed. I just can’t tell you exactly how that will happen yet.” (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Advocate for workers – Acosta: President Donald Trump’s labor nominee is facing questions about how he would back up American workers when his record provides few clues. Alexander Acosta made a blanket pledge at his confirmation hearing Wednesday, but offered few details about whether he supports policies Trump opposes, such as a higher minimum wage. “Whether it is those who are working, those who still seek work, those who are discouraged or unemployed, or those who have retired, if confirmed as secretary of labor, part of my job will to be to be one of those advocates,” Acosta told the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Comey corrects Trump’s tweets: As FBI Director James Comey was in the hot seat, being grilled on Russia’s

LOS ANGELES, March 22, (Agencies): Mayor Eric Garcetti on Tuesday expanded protections for immigrants who are in the country illegally, emphasizing the city’s refusal to help enforce the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown. An executive directive asks the fire chief and chiefs of the airport and port police to follow the Police Department’s decades-old policy of not investigating individuals solely to determine their immigration status. Los Angeles “champions inclusiveness and tolerance, and welcomes everyone who seeks to realize their dreams and build their families here, regardless of national origin or immigration status,” Garcetti’s directive said. Immigrants are the “engine” of the Los Angeles economy, with nearly two out of three residents foreign-born or children of immigrants, Garcetti said. The directive bars any city employee from cooperating with the enforcement of federal civil immigration laws or allowing use of city money or resources for such enforcement unless legally required to do so. Additionally, workers cannot give federal immigration agents special access to any city facility unless legally required to do so. Jails and police agencies around the US have opted in recent years not to cooperate with immigration authorities, in some cases citing federal court rulings that immigrants cannot be held in those jails strictly because of their immigration status. Other jurisdictions have passed local ordinances barring cooperation. Police agencies and civil rights groups have argued that immigration crackdowns — such as recent federal raids that included arrests at courthouses — spread panic in minority communities and make it harder for police to earn trust and fight crime. At a news conference, Police Chief Charlie Beck said that so far this year, reports of sexual assault by Hispanics have dropped 25 percent while domestic violence reports have fallen by 10 percent. Hispanics are believed to comprise the largest segment of Los Angeles residents who entered the country illegally. The relationship between police and the immigrant community is strained when an officer “knocks on the front door to get witness information and to talk to a victim and people run out the back door” because they are afraid they will be arrested and deported, Beck said. “And that is what we fear the most is happening in our city.” President Donald Trump has said he plans to crack down on so-called “sanctuary cities” and other jurisdictions that do not cooperate with immigration authorities and has threatened to eliminate access to some federal grants. On Monday, immigration officials released a list of 206 cases of immigrants released from custody by “non-cooperative” public agencies before federal agents could intervene. Garcetti said the report was trying to pin a “scarlet letter” on those agencies and would harm relationships between federal and local governments. Meanwhile, Garcetti and dozens of other mayors taking part in the US Conference of Mayors are urging Trump and Congress to fix what they termed a “broken” immigration system.

Weighing Meanwhile, a federal judge in Virginia is weighing a request from a Muslim civil rights group for an even broader injunction against President Donald Trump’s proposed travel ban than what other judges have imposed. Federal judges in Hawaii and Maryland have blocked the vast majority of Trump’s revised ban, which would restrict immigration by refugees and from six majority-Muslim countries. Lawyers for the Council on American-Islamic Relations asked a judge in Alexandria on Tuesday to issue an injunction against the entire executive order. Attorney Gadeir Abbas said Section 3 of the order, which affects how visa applicants can seek waivers, remains in force and should be blocked as well.

interference in the 2016 election, the White House was busy trolling him on Twitter. The official White House account was used to tap out a series of tweets Monday trying to shift the focus to problematic leaks instead of what they’d revealed. But several times the tweets from the White House account appeared to go too far, misrepresenting Comey’s testimony in obvious ways. The episode resulted in a real-time

Acosta

As a whole, he said, the purpose of the executive order “is a bare and base desire to disfavor Islam and disfavor Muslims.” As long as any part of it remains in effect, Muslims are improperly stigmatized in violation of First Amendment protections for religious freedom, he argued. Acting Assistant Attorney General Chad Readler, who previously served as an attorney for the Trump campaign, acknowledged that provisions of Section 3 are being “built in” to the current process for reviewing visa applications, but said they have no practical effect on how the government issues visas. “The process is proceeding as normal,” he said. Judge Anthony Trenga questioned whether Section 3 was in force at all — one reading of the order is that Section 3 merely allows individuals to seek waivers if they were denied a visa under Section 2, which has been placed on hold by the judges in Maryland and Hawaii. But Abbas said the order gives new, stricter guidance to Customs and Border Protection agents that they should deny entry to the US unless an applicant can prove, to the agent’s satisfaction, that the denial would create an undue hardship for the would-be traveler, among other conditions. Trenga questioned throughout the hearing whether there remains a need for him to issue a preliminary injunction, given the actions already taken by the Hawaii and Maryland judges. Abbas argued that an injunction might be needed if the other judges’ orders are rescinded or reversed.

Merits The order issued by the Hawaii judge is the broadest, but only takes the form of a temporary restraining order, which can be rescinded at a subsequent hearing. The Maryland order is not as sweeping, but comes in the form of a preliminary injunction, which is expected to remain in place until the merits of the case are decided at trial. More than one in three US Muslims fear they could be targeted by white supremacist groups following President Trump’s election and 42 percent say their children have been bullied in school because of their faith, a survey found. That fear contributes to a lower-than-average rate of voting by adult Muslim citizens, according to a study released on Monday by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding. Cracking down on what he called “radical Islamic terrorists” and restricting travel from certain Middle Eastern countries have been major elements of Trump’s presidency. The study found that 38 percent of Muslims feared they could be victimized by white supremacist groups, a rate far higher than other major religions, and nearly one in five had made plans to leave the United States “if it becomes necessary.” By comparison, 27 percent of Jews, 11 percent of Protestants and 8 percent of Roman Catholics and 16 percent of the religiously unaffiliated voiced such concerns. Forty-two percent of Muslims saying their schoolaged children had been bullied because of their faith, more than quadruple the rate of the general population. One in four cases involved a teacher, the survey found. Just 61 percent of Muslims said they had voted in the 2016 presidential election, fewer than any other major religious group or the public at large, according to the survey of 2,389 people conducted Jan. 4 through Jan 23. One in three Muslims who did not vote said it was because they did not like any of the candidates. The survey had a margin of error of 5.1 percent among Muslims and 2.8 percent for the general public. The survey period concluded three days after Trump took office and before actions, including presidential executive orders, to restrict travel from certain majority-Muslim countries. At least four US mosques, in Texas, Florida and Washington, have been the target of arson this year. Jewish Community Centers across the nation have been subject to more than 100 bomb threats - all of which have been hoaxes.

Gorsuch

fact-checking of President Donald Trump by the FBI director — an unprecedented moment that put a sharp focus on a pattern of misstatements and mischaracterizations by the White House. In one of the tweets, the White House incorrectly claimed that Comey and National Security Agency Director Mike Rogers had told lawmakers “that Russia did not influence electoral process.” (AP)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

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World News Roundup Britain Bid to break independence

UK Left-wing Labour ‘challenges’ bankers LONDON, March 22, (RTRS): Britain’s Labour party, which has made a long journey leftwards since Tony Blair was leader, is looking to gain political momentum in an unlikely place: the heart of London’s financial district. Labour is fighting to break the City of London’s centuries-old policy of independence from party politics and end the grip of bankers on Britain’s most peculiar local government, hoping for its best ever performance in elections there this week. “The aim is to shift policy in a more progressive direction,” said Peter Kenyon, who is running the party’s campaign in the tiny district, nicknamed ‘the Square Mile’. “The aim is to see if an ancient institution can be used for the common good,” said Kenyon, who worked as a political and financial journalist for Reuters until the early 1990s. The City of London, is the oldest, continuous representative local government in the world, running the area that is home to the Bank of England and St Paul’s Cathedral for at least a thousand years. It is also very rich, unlike most conventional British councils which are struggling Corbyn to make ends meet following deep cuts in funding from the Conservative-ruled central government. Britain’s main opposition party, which currently has just one member of council, wants to use more of the City’s wealth to spend on areas such as social housing and tackling air pollution rather than promoting financial services. The City is older even than the British parliament. Some of its powers, such as spending from the vast pool of cash built up over the centuries, exist outside of parliamentary control because they predate the creation of the modern nation state.

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon speaks in the chamber at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh, Scotland on March 21. Sturgeon is asking parliament to back her demand for a referendum on independence within two years. (AP)

Britain

Importance The local authority officially declares its job is to reinforce the importance of financial services to the British economy and to promote those services around the world. Elections in the City, held every four years, are unlike any other in Britain because banks and other companies based there get to vote on behalf of their employees. Depending on the size of their staff, they get up to 79 votes each. The remaining voters are the borough’s 7,400 residents, who are vastly outnumbered by the several hundred thousand workers who pour each weekday morning into the City, and leave again in the evening to their homes elsewhere in London and beyond. For most of the 20th century, official Labour policy was to abolish the area’s right to govern itself but that ended after Blair became leader and dropped the pledge in 1996. He pulled the party towards the centre and pursued business-friendly policies as prime minister from 1997 till 2007. Since then, the Labour leadership has swung back to the left. The party’s finance spokesman John McDonnell has called in the past for the abolition of the City’s local government and for its assets to be shared. Under its current leader, veteran socialist Jeremy Corbyn, Labour lags far behind the Conservatives in national opinion polls but it has high hopes for Thursday, when it is fielding eight candidates for the lower house of the two-chamber council. Labour began contesting the City’s elections after the onset of the global financial crisis. The party failed to take any seats in 2009 or four years later, but won its first seat in a by-election three years ago. Unlike other elections where Labour competes with rival parties, it will be up against independent candidates including bankers, lawyers, accountants and a film producer.

Smallest The City of London is the smallest, but richest local authority in Britain, according to an analysis by Reuters. It is an autonomous fiefdom governed separately from greater London, with its eight million inhabitants. The area has about £5 billion ($6.2 billion) in reserves, making it six times wealthier than Britain’s largest local government in Birmingham, even though the City of London’s population is 145 times smaller, an analysis by Reuters show. The City wants to fend off the entry of party politics, arguing that it will make it harder to make longterm decisions in the interests of Europe’s biggest financial services hub. A spokesman for the City of London says the wealth it has built up over centuries benefits Britain as a whole. This includes spending on the arts, education and conservation. William Taylor, Labour’s first elected councillor in the area, is stepping down after the elections but the party is guaranteed at least one seat — one Labour candidate has no challenger and will be elected unopposed. If Labour can win any more seats, it will push to form an official opposition in the City’s local government for the first time. Taylor said the local authority must learn the lessons of Britain’s referendum vote last year to leave the European Union, when growing income inequality led to a protest against the existing economic and political way of life. “Brexit was a vote against London and the economy built around the success of financial services,” he said. “The question now is: what can the City do now to bring peace?” In his district of Portsoken, residents can see the Gherkin skyscraper a few hundred metres away from the balconies of their council-owned flats, showing the divide between rich and poor. Taylor says the City’s local government finds millions of pounds each year to fund lobbying for financial services and hosting sumptuous banquets for financiers and foreign heads of state, but neglects people living in his district. John Harding, a 74-year-old pensioner on the Guinness social housing estate in the City, points to a blue plastic bucket to catch the rain water coming through the ceiling in his one-bedroom flat. He says there are burglaries, drug dealing and prostitution on the estate that go unchecked. “No one takes our problems seriously,” Harding says. A spokesman for the local authority says it takes the needs of residents into account as much as businesses and aims to provide housing and council services to the highest standard.

Irish PM to attend Brexit summit

Scottish parliament begins debate

A woman sleeps in the sun on bright sunny spring morning in Trafalgar Square with a shadow cast from a commuter who walks past in London on March 21. (AP)

Princess Anne

Kenny

Britain ‘GMO crops have benefits’: Britain’s

EDINBURGH, March 22, (RTRS): Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon sought backing from the Edinburgh parliament on Tuesday for her proposal to hold a new referendum on independence from the United Kingdom, the first formal step in a process resisted by London. The parliament started a two-day debate on Sturgeon’s proposal to hold a referendum in late 2018 or early 2019, with a vote expected on Wednesday. The current balance of power means Sturgeon is almost certain to win the chamber’s backing to formally ask London for permission to press ahead. “It will simply not be acceptable for the UK government to stand as a roadblock to the democratically expressed will of this parliament,” said Sturgeon on the first day of debate. Scotland voted against independence by 55 to 45 percent in 2014, but Sturgeon argues circumstances have changed since then because the UK as a whole voted in a referendum last year to leave the European Union while Scotland voted to stay. British Prime Minister Theresa May said last week that “now is not the time” for a new choice on Scotland’s future as complex divorce talks between the UK, the world’s fifth-largest economy, and its 27 EU partners are about to get under way. In a heated debate, Ruth Davidson, leader of the Scottish Conservatives, accused Sturgeon of acting like a “bulldozer”, putting independence above all else despite not having public support for another vote.

a date for his planned departure last month after his handling of a crisis in the Irish police force threatened to bring the government down. He told members of his ruling Fine Gael party a month ago that he would “conclusively deal” with the issue of his leadership after meeting the US president on March 17. Yet on Tuesday Kenny did not say whether he would be prime minister when negotiations on Britain’s exit from the European Union get under way in late May or early June. “I do expect to attend on April 29 at the European Council meeting,” Kenny told parliament as opposition lawmakers demanded to know who would be in charge of the country when negotiations take place — a critical event for Ireland given its close ties to Britain.

Push In related news, the Netherlands should push for the European Union to keep strong trade ties with Britain after the British quit the EU, a report commissioned by the Dutch parliament said on Tuesday. Britain is the Netherlands’ secondlargest trading partner, accounting for 9 percent of exports, according to the paper by two members of the Dutch parliament. “Any restriction on free trade with Britain would inevitably be at the cost of Dutch exports, prosperity and employment,” it said. “The rapporteurs plead for keeping the tight and free trade relationship between Britain and the 27 EU members by means of a secure relationship to the European internal market,” it added. Protecting At the same time, said Pieter Omtzigt, one of the rapporteurs, a top priority should be protecting the rights of EU citizens already in Britain — 73,000 of them are Dutch — to remain. “Of course that would go for the

Princess Anne may have sparked some royal sibling rivalry after saying genetically modified crops had real benefits to offer, putting her at odds with her older brother Charles who says they would be an environmental disaster. In an interview with BBC radio, Anne said she would grow GMO crops on her farming estates, adding she doubted that the technology had many downsides. That view contrasts sharply with that of heir-to-the-throne Charles, who has long been an ardent campaigner for organic produce, once warning the widespread use of GM crops would “cause the biggest disaster environmentally of all time”. “GM is one of those things that divides people,” Anne, whose title is the Princess Royal, told the BBC’s “Farming Today” programme. “Surely if we are going to be better at producing food of the right value, then we have to accept that genetic technology ... is going to be part of that,” she said in the interview to be aired on Thursday. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Northern Ireland politicians could be given more time or face another election if rival parties cannot agree on a power-sharing arrangement by next week, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said on Tuesday.

Rail union to hold strikes: Britain’s RMT transport union said on Tuesday its members would go on strike on rail networks across the country on April 8, the day of this year’s Grand National steeplechase, in the latest action in a dispute over who should open and close train doors. The union said its workers on Merseyrail in northwest England, which runs rail links to the Aintree race course where the Grand National race is staged, would stage a 24hour walkout after talks broke down with employers. They will be joined by staff on Northern, which runs services to northern cities such as Liverpool, Manchester and Newcastle, and on Southern Rail, run by Govia Thameslink Railway — a joint venture owned by Go-Ahead and France’s Keoli — which operates London commuter lines to the south coast. “RMT recognises the severe impact that the action will have on Grand National Day but we are dealing with an employer that refuses to listen or engage with the union on the critical issue of safe rail operation,” RMT General Secretary Mick Cash said in a statement. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Sinn Fein’s Michelle O’Neill (left), and party leader Gerry Adams place the Irish flag on the coffin of Martin McGuinness in Londonderry, Northern Ireland on March 21. Martin McGuinness, the Irish Republican Army warlord who led his underground, paramilitary movement toward reconciliation with Britain, and was Northern Ireland’s deputy first minister for a decade in a power-sharing government, has died, his Sinn Fein party announced Tuesday on Twitter. He was 66. (AP)

Meeting Meanwhile, Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny said on Tuesday he will attend a meeting of European Union leaders on April 29 for Brexit talks, keeping his party guessing on when he intends to step down. Kenny came under pressure to name

‘Give N. Ireland parties more time’:

The province’s main nationalist and unionist parties were given until March 27 to form a government following snap elections earlier this month, or risk decisionmaking taken back to London for the first time since 2007. Kenny, whose government is co-

Brits who are now in living in the Netherlands,” Omtzigt said, adding that it would make sense to do this even before the trade negotiations begin. “They should not be used as bargaining chips.” Meanwhile, European Union outsiders Norway and Iceland must boost their policy coordination in response to Britain’s planned departure from the block, as well as other changes in global politics, the two Nordic countries said on Wednesday. Along with Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland benefit from free movement of people, goods, services and capital within the EU market of 500 million people with Brussels setting rules that govern all aspects of the joint European Economic Area (EEA). Britain plans to trigger divorce proceedings with the EU on March 29, launching two years of negotiations ahead of a departure that will also force a rebuilding of trading relations with other countries around the world. “We must secure seamless continuation of the EEA cooperation with the EU while safeguarding our important interests in relations to Britain,” Norway’s EU Affairs Minister Frank Bakke-Jensen said in a statement. In a joint statement, Bakke-Jensen and Icelandic Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thordarsson said the two countries would cooperate more closely in their efforts to promote their common interests. “In this respect, Iceland and Norway will share information and develop common strategies, as appropriate, in order to work together in influencing EEA-relevant EU legislation,” the statement said. In January, the EU’s top Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier said the interests of Norway and the other EEA countries would be a “priority” during the upcoming talks. guarantor with Britain of the two-decade old peace deal that ended three decades of violence and introduced devolved government by power-sharing, said he did not want a return of direct rule from Britain. “If the latter (direct rule) is out, what are you left with — either 1) a functioning executive, 2) further elections or 3) some sort of further extension of time, so I do hope that the politicians come together,” Kenny told Ireland’s parliament. Britain’s Northern Irish minister James Brokenshire has also played down the idea of London taking charge. However he has not indicated that he would consider granting the parties more time before calling a third election in the space of a year. The March 2 election saw Sinn Fein surge to within one seat of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and deny pro-British unionist politicians a majority in the regional local assembly for the first time since Ireland was partitioned in 1921. Among its demands for re-entering government, Sinn Fein insists they will not vote for DUP leader Arlene Foster as First Minister until the scandal that triggered the poll — a botched heating subsidies scheme she established — is cleared up. Foster has resisted those calls, saying she is not prepared to step aside temporarily while a public inquiry that could take six to 12 months is held. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

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Migrants Minister earns rebuke

Hungary toughens its border defense TOMPA, Hungary, March 22, (Agencies): A year after the European Union struck a deal with Turkey to stem the flow of migrants into Europe, asylumseekers are still finding their way into Hungary — and the country’s populist government is doubling down protection of its border with Serbia with a new fence and controversial asylum rules. Hungary first built antimigrant fences on its borders with Serbia and Croatia in late 2015 — at the height of the migrant flow on the Balkan route, when sometimes thousands of people passed through Hungary each day on their way to Germany and other destinations in Western Europe. While the country has since seen a significant reduction in Orban the influx, Prime Minister Viktor Orban insists that the new security measures are justified because Turkey has threatened to terminate the migrant deal, and large numbers of migrants may soon head toward Hungary again. A new, second fence to be loaded with surveillance equipment running along the Serbian border is almost complete at Tompa, a southern town of 4,400 residents where every corner bears a reminder of where you are: the Border Inn, the Border Food Store and the Green Border Pub. Local resident Laszlo Tatar says the fence hasn’t stopped the occasional migrant passing through the nearby forests after dark. “Through the wires or by cutting the wires, I don’t know, but they keep coming,” Tatar said. “Poor people, they just want to go to Budapest.” Authorities are also expanding a container camp on Tompa’s outskirts, where a handful of asylumseekers a day are allowed to file their asylum claims. A new Hungarian law ordering the detention of all asylum-seekers in one of two camps — the other is in Roszke, 50 kilometers (31 miles) to the east — has prompted stern criticism from United Nations agencies and human rights advocates, which accuse Hungary of gradually dismantling refugee protection.

Belgium’s King Philippe (center right), and Queen Mathilde (center left), arrive for a one-year anniversary service at Zaventem Airport in Brussels on March 22. The suicide bombings at the Brussels airport and subway on March 22, 2016, killed 32 people and wounded more than 300 others. (AP)

Extremism Belgium struggles to open police to Muslim minority

Spike in racism seen since attacks

Flow Orban insists that stopping the flow of mostly Muslim migrants into Europe is the only way to increase security and preserve the continent’s Christian culture and identity. “The aim of the law is to put a full stop to illegal migration, close the Balkan route, lower the security risk and protect Europe’s borders,” the government said about the new asylum rules coming into effect next Tuesday. “The tightening is particularly needed as Turkey is threatening to terminate the Turkey-EU deal, which means a new flood of migrants could set off toward the European and Hungarian border.” In the March 2016 agreement between the EU and Turkey, Ankara agreed to take back migrants crossing illegally into Europe in return for 3 billion euros ($3.2 billion) in aid by the end of 2017 and a promise for visa-free travel within much of the EU for Turkish citizens. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan last week threatened to scrap the deal over the reluctance of some EU members to allow Turkish ministers to hold campaign rallies in their countries. Meanwhile, Belgium’s migration minister on Tuesday attacked aid groups for saving drowning migrants in the Mediterranean, saying they were only causing more death by doing so, earning himself a rebuke from his own prime minister. Thousands of migrants have drowned on their journey across the central Mediterranean in the last couple of years, as millions make the journey to escape poverty and war. Human traffickers often prepare ramshackle boats for the crossing that are not designed to last the entire trip to Europe’s southern shores, the UN refugee agency UNHCR has said. Doctors Without Borders, best known by its French acronym MSF, operates two boats off the Libyan coast to assist migrants in distress in an operation coordinated by the Italian coast guard. Theo Francken, who recently made headlines during a court battle to refuse humanitarian visas to a family of Syrian refugees from besieged Aleppo, criticised MSF for this operation on Twitter. “By saving them you are indirectly causing only more death,” Francken said.

Trafficking “They have to stay away. They are trafficking humans. It has nothing to do with refugees, this is illegal migration,” he added. In related news, the European Union’s top migration official on Tuesday warned member states against failing to host refugees and help alleviate the pressure on countries like Greece and Italy, which have borne the brunt of arrivals across the Mediterranean. Dimitris Avramopoulos was speaking in Poland, whose eurosceptic government rejects a mandatory quota agreed on by EU leaders in September, 2015, and has taken in none of the nearly 6,200 migrants allocated to it. Fewer than 14,500 asylum-seekers have been relocated from Greece and Italy, the first EU countries that many refugees and migrants from the Middle East and Africa set foot in, under the two-year plan that was supposed to cover 160,000 people and expires in September. While the European Commission, the bloc’s executive, can sue countries that fail to meet their commitments, it has so far shied away from doing so over immigration, highlighting the political sensitivity surrounding issue. “It is important for governments to understand that they should be part of it,” Avramopoulos told a news conference in Warsaw. “If some of them do not comply ... the Commission has the power, the tools to convince these countries.” Some 1.6 million refugees and migrants reached the European Union between 2014 and 2016 and how to handle them has been a major point of contention between member states. Poland’s previous centre-right government voted in favour of the quotas. But the current, nationalistminded Law and Justice (PiS) administration does not want to honour the commitment. While in Warsaw, Avramopoulos met with the head of the EU’s border agency Frontex, which is headquartered in the Polish capital.

Hungarian Defence Minister Istvan Simicsko addresses a two-day seminar on NATO Allied Command Transformation in Hotel Marriott in Budapest, Hungary on March 22. (AP)

Le Pen

Churkin

Europe Le Pen focuses on terrorism: French far-right leader Marine Le Pen met Chad’s President Idriss Deby on Tuesday to discuss the two allies’ cooperation in the fight against Islamist militants in Africa. Le Pen, among the frontrunners in the French presidential election, arrived in Chad on Tuesday and is using the two-day visit to meet French troops stationed in Chad and to outline her policies for the continent. “We have of course discussed the cooperation between France and Chad in the fight against terrorism,” the National Front party candidate said after the meeting with Deby in Am-Djarass, near the borders with Libya and Sudan. She said they had also discussed Libya, and she again condemned France’s role in helping to oust its longtime leader Muammar Gaddafi, which she called “a serious mistake ... with serious consequences.” (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ Court backs deportation: A federal court has endorsed the planned deportation from Germany of two known Islamic extremists who are foreign nationals, although they were born in the country and there is no proof they committed a serious offense, bolstering government plans to expel more foreign nationals deemed dangerous. The two men, an Algerian and a Nigerian whose names were not released, were detained in February in Goettingen during an investigation of suspected attack plans. When they were picked up, investigators found two weapons, at least one of them a firearm that required no permit but had been altered to fire live ammunition. Also found were ammunition, flags of the Islamic State group and a machete. Lower Saxony’s state government late last month ordered their deportation. It said late Tuesday the men will be deported before Easter after the Federal Administrative Court threw out a case against the decision. Authorities also plan to ban them for life from returning to Germany. “This is a clear signal to all fanatics that we won’t leave them one centimeter for their inhuman plans,” said state Interior Minister Boris Pistorius. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

BRUSSELS, March 22, (RTRS): Tarek Chatt says he is one of only two Brussels policemen of Moroccan descent who grew up and is working in the same streets as the Islamist militants who attacked Paris and Brussels. Police and security experts say increasing police diversity in communities like the largely Muslim borough of Molenbeek, where a key suspect in the Paris attacks lived and then hid, is crucial for improving intelligence and spotting radicalisation. While Belgian officials want more tip-offs to prevent the kind of militant attacks that killed 130 people in Paris on Nov 13, 2015 and 32 people in the Brussels metro and airport on March 22, they have struggled to open the police to the country’s Muslim minority. On the eve of the anniversary of the Brussels attacks, Prime Minister Charles Michel told Reuters Belgium was “very determined” to recruit a force that would better mirror the diversity of the population. Police say they struggle most with surveillance of communities like Molenbeek, where the mostly white force is viewed with suspicion by a largely immigrant population wary of being labelled as potential terrorists. Belgium does not keep statistics on religion or race, but an estimated seven percent of the population is Muslim — rising to 45 percent in Molenbeek, independent researchers say. Officers like Chatt, who joined the force in 1999 as part of an earlier drive to recruit from the country’s large Moroccan minority, find their loyalties questioned by both sides. “Back then, it was hard. People were negative. They took me for a snitch,” said Chatt, 48, who chose to serve in his home borough. But now they are pleased, he says. “People are proud to see someone and regional representatives paid tribute to him as his wife, Irina, and son, Maxim, watched. Calling the Russian envoy “a dear friend,” Assembly President Peter Thomson said: “To put it simply, in the theater of diplomacy, ambassador Churkin was a giant, a deep and eloquent intellectual with a sharp with and disarmingly approachable manner.” As Russia’s UN ambassador for nearly 11 years and the longest-serving member on the powerful Security Council, Churkin

of North African origin in uniform; they see it as fair ... They listen more.” On patrol of the crowded Sunday market in Molenbeek’s cobbled streets, he exchanged greetings with vendors, many of them the sons of migrants invited to Belgium to work in coal mines and factories in the 1960s and 70s. He said his shared culture and language help him create a rapport with people in a borough where many only speak Arabic. Officers familiar with the streets of Brussels — where groups like Islamic State have the highest per capita recruitment rate in Europe — have an easier time spotting early signs of radicalisation among youths.

Fight At least 422 have left Brussels to fight in Syria and Iraq, according to researcher Pieter Van Ostaeyen. Chatt says he sometimes translates for his partner, who stands out with her short-cropped blond hair. In a cheeky symbol of resistance to terror, she wears a patch on her uniform that shows Belgium’s Manneken Pis statue peeing on the lit fuse of a bomb — an emblem taken up by many officers after the attacks. Despite the pride that Chatt says the Molenbeek community feels towards him, there is still stigma attached to working for the police and this is one of the main barriers to recruitment. In the security clampdown since the attacks, police have carried out hundreds of raids and arrests that have sharpened tensions with police among some Muslims. “They (the police) are seen as the state and the Muslim community has shut down,” saod Vincent Gilles, the head of Belgium’s main police union. Belgium has learned lessons about keeping violent Islamists in had a very high profile. But Germany’s deputy UN ambassador Jurgen Schulz said it was how he carried out the job that made him “a landmark figure” in the halls of the United Nations. Speaking on behalf of the Western group of nations, Schulz said one of Churkin’s “core strengths was his ability to connect with his counterparts at a personal level,” even after the most heated debates. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

‘Keep Bulgaria on fast track’: Bulgarian centre-right leader Boiko Borisov,

Russia’s late envoy remembered: Russia’s late UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin was remembered Tuesday as “a consummate diplomat” who passionately defended Moscow’s positions but later reached out to those who disagreed because he knew that interaction among people was key to solving the world’s problems. At a ceremony in the General Assembly hall, diplomats from the UN’s 193 member nations stood silently to honor Churkin, who died suddenly on Feb 20 — the day before his 65th birthday. Then, UN leaders

From right: Outgoing German President Joachim Gauck, his partner Daniela Schadt, new German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his wife Elke Buedenbender sit in the first row during the swearing in ceremony for the new President at the German parliament in Berlin on March 22. (AP)

check but cannot rule out more attacks, its prime minister said on Tuesday, a year after Islamic State suicide bombers killed 32 people in Brussels. In an interview with Reuters on the eve of the anniversary of the March 22 bloodshed at the airport and on a metro train, Charles Michel said European states still needed to do more to coordinate surveillance of potential threats and that it was too early to say when Belgium would pull troops off the streets. He praised his country’s security services, who were criticised by some abroad for failing to track the radicalised young Arab men from Brussels who attacked Paris and then their own city four months later. Islamic State had failed, he said, to provoke Belgians into a “trap” of inter-ethnic hatred. “Belgium is on a sounder footing in security terms than it was a year ago,” Michel said, noting additional public funding for the security services and legislation to close loopholes in police powers to tap phones or raid suspects’ homes overnight. “But even today I can’t say there is zero risk. We know that whatever we do, when people are ready to kill themselves and blindly destroy as many lives as possible, we cannot have perfect security.” Troops have patrolled the EU capital since the Paris attacks that killed 130 people in November, 2015, were blamed on young men, mostly of Moroccan origin, some of whom had fought in Syria. While neighbours France, Germany and Britain were helping push EU cooperation, he complained of delay: “We have to up the pace at European level to strengthen the systematic exchange of intelligence and information — in a more pre-emptive manner.” hoping to return to government at elections on Sunday, said on Tuesday Bulgaria should work to deepen its integration within the European Union as quickly as possible. The GERB party of Borisov, 57, who has led two centre-right governments since 2009, is vying with the leftist Socialists who take a more sympathetic line towards former Soviet masters in Moscow. “Bulgaria’s membership of the EU, even if it’s not fashionable to talk about it now in Bulgaria, is the best thing to happen to us,” Borisov told Reuters in an interview. Bulgaria became an effective transit route into the EU for migrants heading largely from the Middle East and South Asia, a development that aroused great controversy. The EU itself faces trying times with anti-EU parties competing for influence at elections in France and Germany this year. Dutch anti-immigration and anti-EU politician Geert Wilders finished a strong second place in elections this month. Borisov’s government resigned in November after its candidate lost the presidential polls to the pro-Russian, Socialist-backed Rumen Radev, and Bulgaria is currently in the hands of a caretaker administration. The pro-EU and pro-market GERB, has maintained a tiny lead in opinion polls over the Socialists, who favour a bigger role for the state in the economy. But with every fifth Bulgarian yet undecided, the vote is unpredictable and the Balkan country is likely to have another fragile coalition government. Migration has been a focus of tensions with the EU and an issue in domestic politics. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

14

World News Roundup Mideast If war erupts again

Israel plans mass civilian evacuation JERUSALEM, March 22, (AP): If Islamic militants in Gaza or Lebanon go to war with Israel, they could find their usual targets empty. Israel is drawing up contingency plans to evacuate up to a quarter-million civilians from border communities to protect them from attacks from Hamas, Hezbollah or other Islamic militant groups. The mass evacuations would be the biggest in Israel’s history, part of a bigger plan where the army works with municipalities to keep civilians safe. All sides have been preparing in case a new round of warfare breaks out, although Hezbollah, an Iranianbacked group sworn to Israel’s destruction, currently is tied down in Syria’s civil war fighting in support of President Bashar Assad. It also comes amid an uptick in tensions between Israel, Syria and Hezbollah. Each side has warned that a new conflict would be worse than previous ones. Hezbollah fired more than 4,000 rockets on Israeli communities in the 2006 war, while Israel bombarded militant targets in southern Lebanon. The month of fighting killed an estimated 1,200 Lebanese, most of them Eisenkot civilians, as well as 44 Israeli civilians and 121 Israeli soldiers. In 2014, 50 days of fighting between Israel and Gaza’s Islamic militant Hamas rulers killed an estimated 2,100 Palestinians, six Israeli civilians and 66 Israeli soldiers. There was widespread devastation in Gaza and thousands of rockets and mortars fired by Hamas and other Islamic militants at Israeli towns and cities.

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaks, during a meeting with local media representatives, in Ankara, Turkey, March 22. Tensions between Turkey and Europe have boiled in recent weeks, but acrimony over Turkey’s belief that some European countries are harboring suspected terrorists has festered for years. (AP)

Turkey

Arsenals Israel says Hezbollah and Hamas have rebuilt larger arsenals capable of hitting the entire country. Elements of the evacuation plan, codenamed “Safe Distance,” were disclosed by a senior Israeli officer in an interview to The Associated Press. “In 2017, all of Israel is under threat,” said Col. Itzik Bar of the military’s Homefront Command. Preparations are underway for Israel to deal with “very high amounts” of incoming fire, he said. Bar pointed out that Hezbollah has gained battle experience from fighting alongside Assad’s forces and that Hassan Nasrallah, the Shiite group’s chief, has recently increased his rhetoric about attacking Israel. The idea is to “remove the threat by not having civilians there,” Bar said. “We want a meeting of army and Hezbollah forces and not civilians with Hezbollah forces.” The evacuation plan would apply mainly to communities adjacent to the borders, he said. “In places where we understand there is a great danger to civilians, for example, where we won’t be able to supply defenses or supply deterrence ... we will evacuate,” Bar said. Evacuees would be housed in existing infrastructure, including hotels, schools and Kibbutz guest houses, he said. The scope of evacuations would depend on the situation, but all told, the plans cover up to 250,000 people who would be moved to safety if there is a conflict on multiple fronts, he said. Israel has a population of about 8.5 million. Small core groups would stay behind in evacuated areas to maintain vital infrastructure and ensure that communities “function the day after the fighting,” he said. Another senior security official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with protocol, said the idea resulted from lessons learned in the 2014 Gaza war, in which communities were not evacuated but residents eventually left on their own. Tens of thousands of Israelis left their homes near the Gaza border as the fighting dragged on, turning some areas into ghost towns. The exodus was sparked by Palestinian shelling along with the fear of heavily armed Gaza militants infiltrating Israel through tunnels. Border communities vulnerable to mortars are the most in danger, he said. Israel’s “Iron Dome” defense system was seen as a game-changer in the 2014 war, ensuring a decisive protective edge from short-range rockets fired from Gaza. But the security official said there were not enough of the defensive systems to cover attacks on multiple fronts. He said Hezbollah has significantly built up its weapons stockpile since the 2006 war and has upgraded its arsenal to about 150,000 missiles. Israel has made it clear it will act to prevent Hezbollah getting advanced munitions and is widely believed to have carried out several airstrikes in recent years on weapons convoys destined for the militant group. On Friday, it made a rare admission of such a strike after Syria fired missiles at its jets. However, the official said Israel fears that some advanced weapons like surface-to-sea weapons or antiaircraft missiles might already have reached Hezbollah.

Escalating Israel’s military chief, Lt Gen Gadi Eisenkot, told an academic conference Tuesday that Hezbollah’s top military commander was killed in Syria in May 2016 by rivals within the group. The announcement was the latest sign of an escalating feud between Israel and Hezbollah. He said the death of Mustafa Badreddine illustrated “the depth of the internal crisis within Hezbollah.” He also said it reflected “the extent of the cruelty, complexity and tension between Hezbollah and its patron Iran.” An Israeli military official said Israel believes the order to kill Badreddine was given by Hezbollah’s leader Nasrallah. Israeli intelligence believes Badreddine had been feuding with Iranian military commanders in Syria over the heavy losses his group had suffered on the battlefield. Israel, meanwhile, has been building up its missile defenses. A system called “David’s Sling” to intercept medium-range missiles from Hezbollah is due to become operational in early April. That would mark the completion of a multilayer missile defense system that includes Iron Dome and Arrow, designed to intercept long-range ballistic missiles — of the type possessed by Iran — high in the stratosphere. The military also has vastly improved its early warning systems, according to Bar, the Israeli colonel. Technology has come a long way since 1991 when air raid sirens sent Israelis nationwide scurrying to bomb shelters when Iraq fired Scud missiles at Tel Aviv. In the 2014 Gaza war, sirens warned of incoming rocket attacks on wide areas.

Ankara sees EU as a haven for terrorists

Europeans will not walk freely: Erdogan

Morocco’s new Prime Minister Saadeddine Othmani gestures at a press conference at the headquarter of the Islamist Justice and Development Party, known as the PJD, in Rabat, Morocco, March 21. Morocco’s king named Saadeddine Othmani on Friday, giving him the responsibility to form a new government. (AP)

ANKARA, March 22, (Agencies): Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that Europeans across the world would not be able to walk safely on the streets if they kept up their current attitude. Turkey has been embroiled in a row with Germany and the Netherlands over the barring of campaign appearances by Turkish officials seeking to drum up support for an April referendum on boosting Erdogan’s powers. “If Europe continues this way, no European in any part of the world can walk safely on the streets. We, as Turkey, call on Europe to respect human rights and democracy,” Erdogan said at event for local journalists in Ankara. Meanwhile, tensions between Turkey and Europe have boiled in recent weeks, but acrimony over Turkey’s belief that some European countries are harboring suspected terrorists has festered for years.

Free

Mohammed VI

Haftar

Mideast New Moroccan PM revives hope: Morocco’s new prime minister is determined to succeed where his predecessor failed, and swiftly began negotiations this week with rivals to build a government and end a crisis threatening the economy and Morocco’s reputation for stability. The nomination of Saadeddine El Othmani as prime minister, after a surprise political intervention by Moroccan King Mohammed VI, has revived hopes for a solution to five months of political deadlock. Othmani has already shown a different style from predecessor Abdelilah Benkirane, who struggled to build a coalition government after the moderate Islamist party PJD won parliamentary elections in October. Benkirane refused to talk to some rivals and alienated others, and the king ousted him last week and appointed Othmani instead. Othmani, 61, the No. 2 in the Party for Justice and Development, told The Associated Press he would meet “all the political parties represented in parliament, and decide on alliances” based on those meetings. The political deadlock has meant Morocco, a close ally with the US and Europe in the fight against terrorism, hasn’t approved a 2017 budget. It has also caused unusual political uncertainty in a country known for political stability after Arab Spring uprisings around the region. (AP)





Europe, in turn, questions whether fugitives wanted in Turkey would get a fair trial, and says free speech laws and other rights protect many dissidents. A Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity in line with government protocol, said Wednesday that Turkey will ask the Netherlands to extradite a Turkish leftist militant. Erdogan criticized Germany for allowing a weekend rally of Kurds, some of whom expressed support for a jailed rebel leader in Turkey. In January, Turkey condemned a Greek court ruling that granted asylum to eight Turkish military servicemen allegedly involved in a failed coup in Turkey last year. Erdogan ramped up his anti-European rhetoric on Wednesday, warning that the safety of Western citizens could be in peril if European nations persist in what he described as arrogant conduct. Erdogan’s remarks came amid tension over Dutch and German restrictions on Turkish officials who tried to campaign for diaspora votes ahead of an remained split between rival parliaments and governments in the east and west, each backed by a set of militias, tribes and political factions. (AP)







Palestinian killed: Israeli fire killed a Palestinian and wounded two others in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday near Israel’s border fence with the Hamas Islamist-run enclave, hospital officials said. The Israeli military said its forces “detected three suspects near the security fence

April 16 referendum on expanding the powers of the Turkish presidency. “Turkey is not a country that can be pushed and shoved, whose honor can be toyed with, whose ministers can be ousted, whose citizens can be dragged on the ground,” Erdogan told Turkish media representatives in Ankara, the Turkish capital. “These developments are being watched in all corners of the world,” he said. “If you continue this way, tomorrow no European, no Westerner anywhere in the world will be able to step onto the streets safely, with peace of mind.” Erdogan did not elaborate. While it is questionable whether the spat between Turkey and Europe would ignite global indignation against the West, the president’s remarks are followed closely by his supporters in a NATO member country with significant numbers of Western residents and visitors. This month, he said the European Union was provoking “a struggle between the cross and crescent,” casting the tension as a dispute between the West and Islam. While some commentators believe Turkish criticism of Europe is designed to rally nationalist support for a “yes” vote and could subside after the referendum, the president’s warning of possible threats to Europeans was likely to further test ties with Europe, Turkey’s No. 1 trading partner. Earlier this month, the Turkish foreign minister was barred from landing in the Netherlands, and supporters of the Turkish government scuffled with police who tried to end a demonstration at the Turkish consulate in Rotterdam. Germany’s new president, meanwhile, urged Turkey not to cut ties with European partners. Berlin recognized the economic progress Turkey has made in the last 20 years and condemned last year’s attempted coup against Erdogan’s government, Frank-Walter Steinmeier said in his first speech since taking the largely ceremonial office. He was recently Germany’s foreign minister. “My appeal is guided by this concern: and fired towards them, identifying one hit” in the pre-dawn incident. No Palestinian militant group claimed the men as members, a sign, local residents said, that the three may have been trying to cross into Israel under the cover of darkness to seek work. (RTRS)







Khamenei will confront: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned on Tuesday he would confront anyone trying to interfere in Iran’s May presidential elec-



Haftar urged to probe killings: Human Rights Watch urged a powerful general in eastern Libya on Wednesday to investigate allegations that his forces committed war crimes such as killing prisoners and desecrating bodies. Relatives, activists, and local journalists described such acts by troops under the command of Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar in the eastern city of Benghazi on and around March 18, the group said in a statement. “The Libyan National Army’s leadership needs to respond urgently to these deeply disturbing allegations by investigating the suspected perpetrators, including senior military commanders who may bear individual responsibility,” said Joe Stork, Middle East and North Africa deputy director at Human Rights Watch. Libya sank into chaos following the 2011 uprising that toppled and killed dictator Muammar Gadhafi, and has

President Erdogan, you are endangering everything that you and others have helped build,” Steinmeier told a joint session of Parliament. He urged Turkey to stop accusing Germany of acting like the Nazis did and release German-Turkish journalist Deniz Yucel, who has been detained since January on charges of disseminating terrorist propaganda and inciting hatred.

Hacker Yucel, a correspondent for Germany’s Die Welt newspaper, was arrested after his report about a hacker attack on the email account of the Turkish energy minister, who is Erdogan’s son-in-law. Also Wednesday, a group of Turkish officers based in Norway who had refused to return to Turkey after the failed coup attempt have been granted political asylum in the Scandinavian country, said their lawyer, Kjell M. Brygfjeld. Newspaper Verdens Gang said they feared being arrested on returning to Turkey. Norwegian justice and immigration authorities declined to comment. Turkish Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag described the Norwegian decision as unacceptable, saying “Europe should not become a safe-haven for coup plotters, for terrorists and murderers,” the state-run Anadolu Agency reported. In January, Greece granted asylum to some Turkish servicemen suspected of involvement in the July 15 uprising, which killed about 270 people and prompted a massive crackdown on suspected collaborators. European leaders expressed concern that Turkish government critics who had not done anything illegal were being targeted, and have questioned whether anti-government fugitives wanted in Turkey would get a fair trial. Meanwhile, Germany’s Frank-Walter Steinmeier used his first speech as president on Wednesday to warn Turkey’s head of state Tayyip Erdogan that he risked destroying everything his country had achieved in recent years. tion, in which conservative hardliners will seek to defeat moderate President Hassan Rouhani. Khamenei referred to major street unrest after the disputed 2009 presidential election as an overt attempt to manipulate the outcome, but said there had been other cases of attempted interference including in the 2013 vote won by Rouhani. (RTRS)







Jerusalem buildings to continue: Israeli media is quoting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as saying that he has no plans to limit Jewish construction in East Jerusalem. The Haaretz newspaper reported that Netanyahu made the comments to Israeli reporters during a visit to Beijing Tuesday. It quoting him as acknowledging “difference of opinion” with the US government on the issue and that he was “ready to discuss” limiting settlement construction in the West Bank and coming up with an “agreed-upon formula.” (AP)







Map against Israel closure: A

A youth waves flags during the Newroz celebration, in Diyarbakir, southeastern Turkey, March 21. Thousands celebrated the Newroz festival in Istanbul and in Diyarbakir, a mainly Kurdish city in a region where Kurdish militants regularly clash with government forces. In Turkey, the spring festival traditionally serves as an occasion to demand more rights for the Kurdish minority. (AP)

prominent Palestinian cartographer says he used a tool of his trade — a map — to explain to Israeli authorities they shouldn’t have closed his office on the outskirts of Jerusalem last week. Israel issued a six-month closure order on grounds that Khalil Tufagji operated illegally from Jerusalem for the Palestinian self-rule government. Tufagji said Tuesday that he showed officers questioning him that his office is in the West Bank, meters from the municipal boundaries Israel drew in 1967 after capturing and annexing east Jerusalem. (AP)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

15

Maritime Japan boosts navy force

Station on Sea shoal doesn’t exist: China BEIJING, March 22, (Agencies): China is not building an environmental monitoring station on a disputed South China Sea shoal, the foreign ministry said Wednesday, apparently denying remarks made by a local official last week that prompted a request for clarification from rival claimant the Philippines. Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said reports about the facility on Scarborough Shoal had been checked and were found to be false. “That does not exist at all,” Hua told reporters at a regularly scheduled news briefing. The official Hainan Daily newspaper had quoted the top official in Sansha City, which administers China’s island claims, as saying that preparatory work on the station was among the government’s top priorities for 2017. Such a move would likely renew concerns among Beijing’s neighbors over its assertive territorial claims in the sea. Calls to Sansha government offices rang unanswered Wednesday. Beijing seized tiny, Hua uninhabited Scarborough in 2012 after a tense standoff with Philippine vessels. Manila said Wednesday it had asked for a clarification of the earlier remarks by Shansha Communist Party head Xiao Jie. Acting Philippine Foreign Secretary Enrique Manalo told Filipino reporters in the Thai capital, Bangkok, where President Rodrigo Duterte is visiting, that his department asked for clarification of the reported planned construction on Scarborough Shoal.

Japan’s Princess Aiko (center), accompanied by her parents Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako, poses for photos as they attend her graduation ceremony at the Gakushuin Girls’ Junior High School in Tokyo on March 22. (AP)

North Korea

Disputes “I think the president has been very clear — we want to have a peaceful, diplomatic settlement of disputes but we will not fail to protect our national interests if necessary,” Manalo said. Asked if a diplomatic protest would be filed, he said Manila will wait for China’s reply. But Manalo said he considered it a good sign that China was interested in concluding a framework for a “code of conduct” with 10 Southeast Asian nations that aims to peacefully manage disputes in the South China Sea. He said there could be progress on the framework when China hosts a meeting in May. China’s construction and land reclamation work in the South China Sea have drawn strong criticism from the US and others, who accuse Beijing of further militarizing the region and altering geography to bolster its claims. China says the seven man-made islands in the disputed Spratly group, which it has equipped with airstrips and military installations, are mainly for civilian purposes and to boost safety for fishing and maritime trade. Prior to the announcement, South China Sea tensions had eased somewhat after Beijing erupted in fury last year following an international arbitration tribunal ruling on a case filed by the Philippines. The verdict invalidated China’s sweeping territorial claims and determined that China had violated the rights of Filipinos to fish at Scarborough Shoal. China has since allowed Filipino fishermen to return to the shoal following Duterte’s calls for closer ties between the countries, but it does not recognize the tribunal’s ruling as valid. In her remarks, Hua reiterated Beijing’s desire for good relations with the Philippines, a US treaty partner that has been drawing closer to China since Duterte’s inauguration last year. China will “cherish the good momentum of the bilateral relationship and will be committed to pushing forward the sound, steady and rapid growth of the relationship,” Hua said. Scarborough has no proper land mass and any structure on it would likely have to be built on stilts. Known in Chinese as Huangyan Island, it lies about 200 kms (120 miles) west of the main Philippine island of Luzon, and about 600 kms (370 miles) southeast of China.

Ownership China, the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei have long contested ownership of the South China Sea, which straddles one of the world’s busiest sea lanes and is believed to sit atop vast deposits of oil and gas. Meanwhile, Japan’s second big helicopter carrier, the Kaga, entered service on Wednesday, giving the nation’s military greater ability to deploy beyond its shores as it pushes back against China’s growing influence in Asia. Accompanied by a military band, Maritime Self Defence Force commanders took possession of the 248 metre (813.65 ft) long vessel at the Japan Marine United shipyard in Yokohama near Tokyo, where it was docked next to its sister ship the Izumo. “China is attempting to make changes in the South China Sea with bases and through acts that exert pressure is altering the status quo, raising security concerns among the international community,” Vice Minister of Defence Takayuki Kobayashi said at the ceremony attended by about 500 people Japan’s two biggest warships since World War Two are potent symbols of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s push to give the military a bigger international role. They are designated as helicopter destroyers to keep within the bounds of a warrenouncing constitution that forbids possession of offensive weapons. In its biggest show of naval power in foreign waters in more than 70 years, Japan plans to dispatch the Izumo in May on a three-month tour through the South China Sea, sources with knowledge of the plan told Reuters earlier. China claims almost all the disputed waters through which around $5 trillion of global seaborne trade passes each year. Beijing’s growing military presence there has fuelled concern in Tokyo and Washington. Taiwan, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei also claim parts of the sea which has rich fishing grounds, oil and gas deposits. Japan has no claims there, but is locked in an territorial dispute with China over a group of islets in the neighbouring East China Sea.

Pyongyang says to pursue nuclear arms

N.Korean missile test fails: US An unidentified relative of missing passengers of sunken Sewol ferry prays as two barges prepare to attempt to salvage the boat in waters off Jindo, South Korea on March 22. South Korean workers have started tests to determine if they can begin salvaging a 6,800-ton ferry that sank in 2014, killing more than 300 people and triggering the initial public uproar that contributed to the recent ouster of Park Geun-hye as president. (AP)

Choi

Park

Asia Stampede kills 2 students: Two students died and more than 20 others were injured Wednesday in a stampede during a morning bathroom break at an elementary school in central China, government officials said. The Puyang county government in Henan province said in a brief notice that the incident is under investigation. A county official reach by phone confirmed the deaths and injuries but declined to give other details. Overcrowding and poor building design and construction have been blamed for past crushing deaths and injuries at Chinese schools. Other safety problems have included the use of running tracks made from scrap that sickened students with their noxious fumes. China’s deadliest stampede in recent years occurred during new year festivities on Jan 1, 2015, when 36 people died in a crush along Shanghai’s riverfront esplanade. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

SEOUL, March 22, (RTRS): A North Korean missile appeared to have exploded on Wednesday just after it was launched, the US and South Korean militaries said after detecting the latest in a series of weapons tests by the nuclear-armed state that have alarmed the region. The launch attempt was made from near the city of Wonsan, on North Korea’s east coast, the same place from where it launched several intermediate-range missiles last year, all but one of which failed. “US Pacific Command detected what we assess was a failed North Korean missile launch attempt ... in the vicinity of Kalma,” Commander Dave Benham, a spokesman for US Pacific Command, said in a statement, referring to an air field in Wonsan. “A missile appears to have exploded within seconds of launch,” Benham said, adding that work was being carried out on a more detailed assessment. A South Korean military official told Reuters the missile appeared to have exploded just after it was launched. “It may have exploded right after it took off from a launch pad,” said military official, who declined to be identified. It was not clear what type of missile it was. The South Korean defence ministry said it was conducting analysis to determine further details. The increasing frequency of the missile tests has fuelled a growing sense of urgency over how to respond to the isolated, unpredictable state. North Korea launched four ballistic missiles from near its west coast on March 6 and this week conducted a rocket engine test that its leader, Kim Jong Un, said opened “a new birth” of its rocket industry. The latest launch came as the US envoy for North Korea policy, Joseph Yun, met his South Korean counterpart in Seoul to discuss a response to the North’s weapons programmes. Just last week US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visited Japan, South Korea and China and how to handle North Korea was a major issue in his talks.

Patience Speaking in Seoul on Friday, Tillerson said a policy of strategic patience with North Korea had ended and all options, including a military one, were on the table if North Korea threatened South Korean or US forces. North Korea has conducted two nuclear tests and a series of missile launches since the beginning of last year in defiance of UN resolutions. It is believed to be working to develop nuclear-tipped missiles that can reach the United States. US President Donald Trump rebuked Kim on Sunday, saying the North Korean leader was “acting very, very badly”. Meanwhile, North Korea has nothing to fear from any US move to broaden sanctions aimed at cutting it off from the global financial system and will pursue “acceleration” of its nuclear and missile programmes, a North Korean envoy told Reuters on Tuesday. This includes developing a “pre-emptive first strike capability” and an inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM), said Choe Myong Nam, deputy ambassador at the North Korean mission to the United Nations in Geneva. Reuters, quoting a senior US official in Washington, reported on missing bodies. A Chinese salvage company has fitted 33 beams beneath the hull, and on Wednesday the system was tested with 66 hydraulic jacks raising the hull one metre off the bottom, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said.

Divers were inspecting the progress. “The vessel is slightly tilted and we need to even it out,” Lee Cheol-jo, ministry official in charge of the operation, told reporters. If the ship can be levelled, and

S. Korea to raise ferry: Salvage experts in South Korea prepared on Wednesday to begin raising a ferry that sank nearly three years ago, killing 304 people, most of them children on a school trip, finally meeting the demands of mourning families. The ferry, the Sewol, was structurally unsound, overloaded and travelling too fast on a turn when it capsized and sank during a routine voyage on April 16, 2014. It lies at a depth of 44 metres (144 feet), off the southwestern island of Jindo. Of those killed, 250 were teenagers on a school trip, many of whom obeyed crew instructions to remain in their cabins even as crew members were escaping the sinking vessel. Bereaved families have been calling for the ship to be raised and for a more thorough investigation into the disaster. Officials also hope to find the last nine

Monday that the Trump administration is considering sweeping sanctions as part of a broad review of measures to counter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threat. “I think this is stemming from the visit by the Secretary of State (Rex Tillerson) to Japan, South Korea and China ... We of course are not afraid of any act like that,” Choe told Reuters. “Even prohibition of the international transactions system, the global financial system, this kind of thing is part of their system that will not frighten us or make any difference.” He called existing sanctions “heinous and inhumane”. North Korea has been under sanctions for “half a century” but the communist state survives by placing an emphasis on juche or “self-sufficiency”, he said. His country wants a forum set up to examine the “legality and legitimacy of the sanctions regime”.

Criticised He denounced joint annual military exercises currently being carried out by the United States and South Korea on the divided peninsula and criticised remarks by Tillerson during his talks with regional allies last week. “All he was talking about is for the United States to take military actions on DPRK,” Choe said, using the acronym for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. North Korea rejects claims by Washington and Seoul that the military drills are defensive. They involve strategic nuclear bombers and a nuclear submarine, Columbus, that recently entered South Korean ports, he said. “In the light of such huge military forces involved in the joint military exercises, we have no other choice but to continue with our full acceleration of the nuclear programmes and missile programmes. It is because of these hostile activities on the part of the United States and South Korea.” “We strengthen our national defence capability as well as preemptive strike capabilities with nuclear forces as a centrepiece,” Choe said. Asked to comment on Choe’s remarks, a US State Department spokeswoman, Anna Richey-Allen, called on North Korea “to refrain from provocative actions and inflammatory rhetoric ... and to make the strategic choice to fulfill its international obligations and commitments and return to serious talks.” Choe declined to give technical details of North Korea’s latest rocket engine test on Sunday — seen as a possible prelude to a partial ICBM flight — calling it a great historical event that would lead to “fruitful outcomes”. “I can tell you for sure that the inter-continental ballistic rockets of the DPRK will be launched at any time and at any place as decided by our Supreme Leadership,” Choe said, recalling leader Kim Jong Un’s pledge in a New Year’s address. Analysts say North Korea has likely mastered the technology to power the different stages of an ICBM and may show it off soon, but is likely still a long way from being able to hit the mainland United States. “The United States has been talking about launching pre-emptive strikes at North Korea,” Choe said. “And we have been prepared to deter, to counter-attack such attacks on the part of the United States. if the good weather holds, a decision could be made for the salvagers to go ahead and bring the ship up, the ministry said. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Park interrogated: Former South Korean president Park

Peaceful Mideast is good for all: Xi

Members of a Chinese honor guard with caskets containing the remains of Chinese soldiers move into a cargo airplane during the handing over ceremony at the Incheon International Airport in Incheon, South Korea on March 22. The remains of 28 Chinese soldiers killed during the 1950-53 Korean War were transferred from the temporary columbarium in South Korea to the airport to return home for permanent burial. (AP)

BEIJING, March 22, (RTRS): Chinese President Xi Jinping told visiting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday that peaceful coexistence with the Palestinians would be good for both sides. Xi, whose country has traditionally played little role in Middle East conflicts or diplomacy despite its reliance on the region for oil, said a peaceful and stable Middle East was in everyone’s interests. He said that China had increasingly close relations with countries in the region, according to a statement from China’s Foreign Ministry about his meeting with Netanyahu.

Geun-hye left prosecutors’ offices early on Wednesday after being questioned in an investigation into a corruption scandal that brought an early end to her political career. Park did not respond to reporters’ questions as she emerged from the building after nearly 22 hours and got into a waiting car to be driven to her private home in the capital, Seoul. Prosecutors questioned Park as a criminal suspect for the first time since the Constitutional Court on March 10 upheld her December impeachment by parliament. Park is accused of colluding with a friend, Choi Soon-sil, to pressure big businesses to donate to two foundations set up to back the former president’s policy initiatives. She and Choi have denied wrongdoing. Prosecutors have declined to comment on whether Park will be called back for more questioning or whether they would seek an arrest warrant from a court to detain her. They did not discuss the details of the questions but said Park was responding well to the investigation. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

16

World News Roundup Africa

Asia

Sanction Morocco — W. Sahara:

Vietnam sentences 9 to death

Australia to resettle 12K Syrian refugees CANBERRA, Australia, March 22, (Agencies): Australia is close to resettling the 12,000 refugees from the war in Syria and Iraq it promised to urgently take more than a year ago, an official said Wednesday. All 12,000 have been issued visas and more than 10,000 have already been brought from Middle Eastern refugee camps to Australia, Immigration and Border Protection Minister Peter Dutton said in a statement. The remainder will be resettled in the coming months, he said. The refugees are in addition to the 13,750 refugees that Australia accepts each year. Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced in September 2015 that the 12,000 refugees would be resettled as quickly as possible. He was replaced by Malcolm Turnbull, the current prime minister, less than a week later. Peter Shergold, coordinatorgeneral for refugee resettlement in New South Wales, Australia’s most populous state, said careful screening would hold up the resettlement process. Some conservative government lawmakers had urged the Cabinet to rethink the commitment because of the threat that Dutton extremists among the Syrian refugees might pose in Australia. Turnbull told President Barack Obama’s Leaders’ Summit on Refugees in September that Australia, which has a population of 24 million, would increase its annual refugee intake by 5,000 to 18,750 places from mid-2018. ❑ ❑ ❑ PM visits Australia: Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is due to arrive in the Australian capital Canberra on Wednesday on a mission to expand bilateral ties as President Donald Trump proposes an “America First” overhaul of global trade. Li’s visit to Australia and New Zealand is the first by a Chinese premier in 11 years. He is also the most senior Chinese official to visit Australia since 2014 when President Xi Jinping finalized a bilateral free trade deal with Australia which started in 2015. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he and Li would announce the next stage of the pact during the four-day Australian visit. “Both our economies are in the midst of important transitions, creating new opportunities for collaboration in services, innovation and investment,” Turnbull said in a statement. China is Australia’s biggest trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $107 billion and bilateral investment exceeding $100 billion. Trump’s election promises to change the dynamics of global trade. ❑ ❑ ❑ Thailand, PH to up military ties: Thailand’s junta leader and Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte agreed on Tuesday to strengthen military ties and cooperate against cross-border criminality, including illegal drugs. Duterte has faced criticism over the bloody nature of his campaign against drugs while Thailand’s junta is under pressure from the West to restore democracy nearly three years after it took power in the name of ending instability. “On the security matters, Thailand and the Philippines are willing to work together in tightening the military ties of both countries as we are concerned about the challenges in addressing terrorism and all forms of transnational crimes,” Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said after their meeting. Duterte also referred specifically to the campaign against illegal drugs. More than 8,000 people have died since he took office last year and began his own crackdown. ❑ ❑ ❑ Thai soldier charged with murder: A Thai soldier was charged on Tuesday with murdering a youth activist from an ethnic minority in an anti-drugs operation, police said, a case that has sparked concern among rights groups which have called for an independent investigation. Human Rights Watch said army officers had used anti-drug operations in the past as a cover for attacks on activists who exposed official wrongdoing or defended minority rights. Chaiyaphum Pa-sae, a 17-year-old advocate for the rights of ethnic Lahu and other vulnerable ethnic minorities in northern Thailand, was shot on Friday. The soldier turned himself in to police on Tuesday and was charged with murder, said Police Colonel Chonlathep Maichai, of Chiang Dao district police station in the ancient walled city of Chiang Mai. ❑ ❑ ❑ Vietnam sentences 9 men to death: Vietnamese state media say a court has sentenced nine men to death for trafficking more than 1,000 pounds of heroin. The Tuoi Tre newspaper reported that the court in Hoa Binh province also sentenced nine others to life imprisonment and four others from 17 to 20 years in jail at the end of the 23-day trial on Tuesday. The newspaper reported Wednesday that the ring was convicted of trafficking 495 kgs (1,089 pounds) of heroin from Laos through Vietnam for sale in China from 2012 until the ring was broken up in 2015. The newspaper says the ring made illegal profits of $672,000. Vietnam has some of the world’s toughest drug laws, where trafficking 100 grams of heroin is punishable by death. ❑ ❑ ❑ Myanmar praises China: Myanmar’s government praised China on Wednesday for suspending a Chinese bank account used by ethnic rebels fighting Myanmar troops, in a move to prevent potential damage to diplomatic ties. Reuters has revealed that an ethnic rebel armed group fighting Myanmar forces near the Chinese border had been openly soliciting funds via China’s giant stateowned lender Agricultural Bank Of China (AgBank). Myanmar’s peace process — started under the previous semi-civilian administration — has lost momentum after Nobel Peace Prize winner Aung San Suu Kyi came to power in 2016, with some of the militias accusing her of a one-sided approach and refusing to join a major peace conference. Relations with China have been strained by the ethnic conflicts spilling over the border, and some observers say Beijing uses ethnically Chinese insurgent groups as a means of leverage over Myanmar. The decision to suspend AgBank was welcomed by Suu Kyi’s government.

Somali soldiers stand near the wreckage of a car bomb attack that targeted a checkpoint in Mogadishu, Somalia on March 21. The car bomb exploded Tuesday at a military checkpoint near Somalia’s presidential palace in the capital, after soldiers tried to stop the car and the bomber tried to speed through the checkpoint, killing a number of people, police said. (AP)

Western Sahara’s top diplomat on Tuesday called on African countries to sanction Morocco after it failed to attend an African Union meeting on the disputed territory. The call for sanctions comes less than two months after Morocco rejoined the AU, which it left decades ago because the continental body in 1984 recognized Western Sahara as the independent Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic. Morocco claims the territory as its “southern provinces.” Western Sahara Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ouldsalek said Monday’s meeting of the AU’s Peace and Security Council was the first test of Morocco’s admission to the continental body, of which Western Sahara is also a member. Ouldsalek “Morocco has boycotted the meeting that was scheduled to discuss issues related between the two countries. The African Union now must take steps by imposing sanctions against Morocco,” the foreign minister said. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

France warns against cuts: France’s UN ambassador warned Tuesday against cuts to the UN peacekeeping force in Congo when the country is heading toward elections and facing an upsurge in violence and deteriorating security. Francois Delattre told reporters that the Security Council “shouldn’t play with fire when it comes to such an important issue.” The United States, the largest contributor to UN peacekeeping, is seeking cuts and reviewing all 16 missions. The Congo mission, with about 22,400 people including nearly 17,000 troops and over 1,350 police, is the biggest and costliest with a budget of $1.2 billion. Britain’s UN Ambassador Matthew Rycroft said that during a closed council discussion there was some support for cutting numbers but also concern that with elections coming by the end of the year this isn’t the time to reduce the mission’s ability to protect civilians. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Somalia PM names cabinet: Somalia’s

Kashmiri village women walk towards their home after collecting water from a river, on World Water Day in Dasilpora, north of Srinagar, Indian- controlled Kashmir on March 22. India has the world’s highest number of people without access to clean water. According to UNICEF, the UN’s children’s agency, nearly 78 million Indians or about 5 percent of the country’s 1.3 billion population must make do with contaminated water sources or buy water at high rates. (AP)

Subcontinent Pak assembly OKs military courts

India jails 2 over blast

Former Prime Minister John Key addresses the parliament for the final time in Wellington, New Zealand on March 22. In his farewell speech to lawmakers on Wednesday, Key recounted the time he visited the Marshall Islands in 2013 for a meeting of Pacific leaders and managed to squeeze in some deep-sea fishing. (AP)

Lat/Am Brazil eyes spending freeze: Brazil’s government plans to announce spending freezes of 30 billion to 35 billion reais ($9.7 billion to $11.3 billion) this week to help meet part of its 2017 budget deficit target, the Senate leader said on Tuesday. The rest of the shortfall will have to come from raised taxes and higher revenues from such sources as infrastructure concessions to private companies, Senator Romero JucB said in an interview. JucB said tax increases being studied include one on gasoline and another on financial operations called IOF, both of which would not require legislation. “The freezes will be a maximum of 30 to 35 billion reais, More than that would be an amputation,” JucB said. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ ‘Heal deep divisions’: Haiti’s new prime minister on Tuesday urged this deeply polarized country to bridge divisions, and he vowed to bring steady advances even while acknowledging that the struggling nation has no shortage of accelerating problems. Dr Jack Guy Lafontant, a physician and political outsider approved as Haiti’s No. 2 official after clearing a final parliamentary hurdle early in the day, took the oath of office in front of politicians and dignitaries on the grounds of the national palace. “Time is serious and the legacy is heavy. I inherited the prime minister’s job at a time when inflation is rampant, the depreciation of the (Haitian) gourd is accelerating, and where agriculture, the main backbone of our economy, continues to lose its competitiveness,” Lafontant said. He stressed that significant progress in what is one of the world’s poorest and most

NEW DELHI, March 22, (Agencies): An Indian court on Wednesday sentenced two Hindu hard-liners to life in prison for triggering an explosion at a Muslim shrine in western India that killed three people and injured more than a dozen a decade ago. The court handed the sentence to the convicts in Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan state. A third convict in the case died after the 2007 blast, which occurred in Ajmer, a Muslim pilgrimage center in Rajasthan. Indian news reports said two of the convicts were former preachers of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, or National Volunteer Corps, a Hindu group that has long been accused of stoking religious hatred against Muslims. India’s governing Bharatiya Janata Party is a political wing of the RSS. Investigators initially suspected the involvement of a Pakistan-based militant group, Lashkar-e-Taiba, but later found that RSS supporters were involved in the blast. ❑ ❑ ❑ Pakistan’s military says troops have clashed with militants during a raid in a tribal region near the Afghan border, with two soldiers and five “terrorists” killed. It says a local Pakistani Taleban commander was among those killed in Wednesday’s raid in the Orakzai tribal region. Pakistan stepped up operations against militants following a series of attacks last month that killed at least 125 people. It also closed its border with Afghanistan for more than a month, accusing Kabul of failing to crack down on militants. ❑ ❑ ❑ unequal countries will be possible only by bringing its people together and providing opportunities for citizens to demonstrate their “know-how and expertise.” (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Lafontant

Pinera

Pakistan’s parliament on Tuesday amended the constitution to reinstate secret military courts that try civilians charged with terrorism offences, something activists have warned will lead to human rights abuses. The government and Pakistan’s powerful military say the country’s civilian judicial infrastructure is ill-equipped to deal with such cases, partly as judges fear becoming victims of revenge attacks by militants. Military courts were first set up by the parliament in early 2015 in response to an attack by Pakistani Taleban fighters on a military-run school that killed 134 children. The courts have delivered 275 convictions, including 161 death sentences, and carried out 17 executions. These courts do not allow the right to appeal and judges are not required to have law degrees or provide reasons for their verdicts. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s office said in January that it would seek to keep them in place after the two-year legal mandate expired. ❑ ❑ ❑ Afghanistan wants the United States to send more forces to help meet shortfalls in the battle against the Taleban and the Islamic State group, the nation’s top diplomat said Tuesday. Foreign Minister Salahuddin Rabbani welcomed a recent call by US Gen John Nicholson, the top American commander in Afghanistan, for a few thousand more troops from the US or other coalition partners to help break the stalemate in the war-torn country.

Pinera seek office again: Sebastian Pinera, who was Chile’s president from 2010 to 2014, officially declared on Tuesday his intention to seek the office again this year, betting that widespread disillusion with the governing coalition will help him win over voters. The center-right Pinera, who ranks 745th on the Forbes list of the world’s richest billionaires, is bidding for the nomination of the ‘Chile Vamos’ coalition, formed by his party and the more conservative UDI. He had been widely expected to declare his candidacy, and recent opinion polls make him the front-runner to win November’s presidential election in one of Latin America’s most affluent and stable countries. Nominating primaries are slated for July. (RTRS)

new prime minister named a 26-strong cabinet on Tuesday, including a former foreign affairs chief as finance minister and a BBC journalist as the country’s top diplomat. Hassan Ali Khaire, who was appointed to the post by President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed last month, read out his list of cabinet ministers to reporters. President Mohamed was sworn in last month after unseating Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose administration faced public and Western criticism for corruption scandals. A dual US-Somali citizen and a former prime minister, President Mohamed has promised to tackle hunger, corruption and violence in Somalia, which has been mired in civil war for a quarter of a century. On Tuesday, the prime minister named Abdirahman Duale Beyle as his finance minister and Yusuf Garaad Omar as foreign minister. Beyle, a former economist at the African Development Bank, served as foreign minister from 2014 to 2015. Omar, a dual British-Somali national, was head of the BBC’s Somali language service. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Car bomb kills 6 in Somalia: A car bomb exploded Tuesday at a military checkpoint near Somalia’s presidential palace in the capital, killing at least six people, the spokesman for Mogadishu’s mayor said. The dead included a soldier and five civilians, Abdifitah Halane said. Another dozen people were injured. The blast was detonated after soldiers tried to stop the car and the bomber tried to speed through the checkpoint, police Capt Mohamed Hussein said. The checkpoint is one of several that motorists must go through before reaching the heavily guarded presidential palace, which has seen previous attacks by the al-Qaidalinked extremist group al-Shabab. The group later claimed responsibility for the blast via its radio arm, Andalus. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ Attack in Nigeria kills 17: At least 17 people have been killed in an attack on a community in Benue state in central Nigeria, an official said Tuesday, while residents said the toll was higher. A special adviser to the governor, Tahav Agerzua, condemned Monday evening’s attack on Zaki Biam by unidentified gunmen. The assault comes barely a week after suspected Fulani herdsmen killed over 10 people in the Buruku area of Benue state, which led Gov Samuel Ortom to order the herdsmen to leave the state within 72 hours. A community leader, Iverem Peters, said the gunmen on Monday stormed the community in cars and on motorcycles, shooting indiscriminately at residents and burning houses. Peters said more than 20 people were killed, with several others injured and many houses razed. Meanwhile, Nigerian officials say at least eight people have been killed after five suicide bombers attacked the northeastern city of Maiduguri. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ Bemba gets extra year: Judges at the International Criminal Court on Wednesday added a year to Jean-Pierre Bemba’s 18-year jail term following the former Congolese vice president’s conviction for attempting to bribe witnesses during his war crimes trial. After a second trial on the separate charges, Bemba, who was vice president of Democratic Republic of Congo from 2003 to 2006, was ordered to pay a 300,000 euro fine to the court’s fund supporting victims of atrocities. His lawyer Aime Kilolo was given a 30,000 euro fine and a two-and-a-half year suspended prison sentence. Bemba is appealing his conviction last year on charges of having committed war crimes by allowing his forces on a murderous rampage through the neighbouring Central African Republic in 2002 and 2003. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

18

World News Roundup Oil Banks sends message

Pipeline vulnerable to ‘sabotage’ acts BISMARCK, North Dakota, March 22, (Agencies): The developer of the Dakota Access pipeline has reported “recent coordinated physical attacks” on the much-protested line, just as it’s almost ready to carry oil. Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners didn’t give details, but experts say Dakota Access and the rest of the nearly 3 million miles of pipeline that deliver natural gas and petroleum in the US are vulnerable to acts of sabotage. It’s a threat that ETP takes seriously enough that it has asked a court to shield details such as spill response plans and features of the fourstate pipeline Renterghem that the company fears could be used against it by activists or terrorists. Here is a look at some pipeline security issues: Recent attacks

An Indian girl waits for the arrival of water supply at a public tap next to plastic cans lined up by others for collecting drinking water in a hill area on the eve of World Water Day in Guwahati, India on March 21. (Inset): In this photo taken on March 21, an Indian construction worker fills drinking water in his bottle from an earthen pot at his work place in New Delhi, India. Some Indians keep earthen pots filled with water outside their homes for thirsty passersby especially in summer months. (AP)

Water

Climate

‘Wastewater a resource’

Fewer coal plants built

Clean water brings ‘hope’ to villagers NAI BASTI VILLAGE, India, March 22, (Agencies): Schoolchildren cheered and village women clapped as a gush of clean water flowed through a set of gleaming steel taps connected to a newly installed water filtration plant in a dusty north Indian village. Nai Basti is a mere 55 kms (35 miles) east of the capital, New Delhi, but access to clean drinking water was a dream for the villagers until Wednesday, when the filtration plant began functioning at a village elementary school. India has the world’s highest number of people without access to clean water. According to UNICEF, the UN’s children’s agency, nearly 78 million Indians — or about 5 percent of the country’s 1.3 billion population — must make do with contaminated water sources or buy water at high rates. The lack of clean water contributes to increases in stomach Connor ailments, diarrheal diseases and deaths from waterborne diseases. Around 140,000 children die of diarrheal disease in India each year, a third of the 315,000 such deaths of children worldwide. The US-based non-governmental organization, Planet Water Foundation, which has built the filtration system in Nai Basti, chose to activate it March 22, marked globally as World Water Day. The nonprofit plans to give access to clean drinking water to 24,000 people through 24 projects in five countries on this day. School staff and villagers in Nai Basti said access to clean water would transform their lives. Apart from ending the effort of pumping every bucket they need for their use, it would also bring down waterborne diseases sharply. “Earlier, the children used to drink dirty water. This was groundwater drawn from a bore-well by using a hand pump. They used to fall sick frequently and would not attend school,” said Vinod Sharma, principal of the Brahmaved Inter College in Nai Basti. “We expect attendance to reach 100 percent. And the residents of the village will have access to this water as well,” he said. Installing the filtration system in the school serves the dual purpose of teaching children basic hygiene such as washing their hands before meals and after using the toilet. In many ways Nai Basti’s water woes reflect the severe water shortages faced across the country. As rivers and streams run dry, villagers are forced to dig borewells and pump up increasingly polluted groundwater. But decades of extracting groundwater for their daily needs has led to a precipitous drop in the groundwater table levels across the country, threatening environmental and human disaster. India faces chronic water shortages. With climate change, the country’s annual monsoon rains have become more erratic, and traditional water reservoirs have shrunk.

Also: LONDON: Wastewater from households, industries and agriculture should not be seen as a problem but a valuable resource which could help meet the demands for water, energy and nutrients from a growing global population, a UN water expert said. Globally, more than 80 percent of wastewater is released into rivers and lakes without treatment with a negative impact on health and the environment, according to the 2017 UN World Water Development Report published on Wednesday. Pollution from human and animal waste affects nearly one in three rivers in Latin America, Asia and Africa, putting millions of lives at risk, it said. But wastewater contains nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrates which can be turned into fertiliser, said Richard Connor, editor-in-chief of the report. Treated sludge can be turned into biogas that could power wastewater treatment plants or be sold on the market, he added. “Wastewater itself is a valuable resource, even the term wastewater is an oxymoron,” Connor told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

Climate outlook improves

In this Feb 24, 2015 file photo, workers lay cement to build a concrete structure at the under-construction coal-fired power plant, partially financed by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, in Kudgi, India. (AP)

Runyon

Widodo

Discovery ‘Restore Pluto to planet club’: A team of scientists seeking to restore Pluto to planethood launched a campaign on Tuesday to broaden the astronomical classifications which led to its demotion to a “dwarf planet” a decade ago. Six scientists from institutions across the United States argued that Pluto deserves to be a full planet, along with some 110 other bodies in the solar system, including Earth’s moon. In a paper presented at an international planetary science conference at The Woodlands, Texas, the scientists explained that geological properties, such as shape and surface features, should determine what constitutes a planet. In 2006, the International Astronomical Union, struggling with how to classify a newly discovered icy body beyond Pluto, adopted a definition for a planet based on characteristics that include clearing other objects from its orbital path. Pluto and its newfound kin in the solar system’s distant Kuiper Belt region were reclassified as dwarf planets, along with Ceres, the biggest object in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter. The decision left the solar system with eight planets. But this definition sidelines the research interests of most planetary scientists, said the paper’s lead author, Kirby Runyon, a doctoral candidate at Johns Hopkins University. Runyon said he and other planetary scientists are more interested in a planet’s physical characteristics, such as its shape and whether it has mountains, oceans and an atmosphere. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

‘Cut deforestation’: Dozens of global investors representing more than $617 billion in assets under management are demanding that companies adopt “zero deforestation” policies in Latin America to combat the effects of climate change, a firm advising the investors said. Thirty-nine investors have joined forces to urge companies to adopt a similar policy to the region’s soy moratorium, which helped reduce deforestation rates in the Amazon by two thirds, Green Century Capital Management said. Kate Kroll, who coordinates the Bostonbased firm’s forest protection campaign, said corporations that source food from

BEIJING, March 22, (AP): Led by cutbacks in China and India, construction of new coal-fired power plants is falling worldwide, improving chances climate goals can be met despite earlier pessimism, three environmental groups said Wednesday. A joint report by the groups CoalSwarm, the Sierra Club and Greenpeace follows a warning this week by two international agencies that the world needs to shift quickly away from fossil fuels to curb global warming. Environmentalists were dismayed by President Donald Trump’s US government budget proposal last week that would cut spending on renewable energy. Construction starts for coal-fired plants in China and India were down by 62 percent in January from a year earlier while new facilities starting operations declined 29 percent, according to the report. It said older plants in the United States and Europe are being retired at a record pace. The latest developments “appear to have brought global climate goals within feasible reach, raising the prospect that the worst levels of climate change might be avoided,” said the report.

Scrap It acknowledged “the margin for error is tight.” Sustained progress will require China and India to scrap more than 100 coal plants on which construction has been suspended. And the report warned that some countries, including South Korea and Indonesia, are failing to develop renewables, which could increase their need for coal power. In a separate report, the US-based Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis said falling power demand in Japan means most of the 45 new coal plants the country has planned will likely never be built. The reports mark a shift in sentiment from six months ago, when environmentalists warned governments were

doing too little to carry out the Paris climate accord. Signed by 170 countries, it calls for holding global temperature increases to no more than 2 degrees centigrade (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in hopes of preventing sea level rise and other drastic change. China, the biggest greenhouse gas emitter, said then that its coal use would rise until 2030. But later data showed the peak passed in 2013 and consumption is falling.

Alternatives Countries including China, Germany, India and Japan are moving away from coal as alternatives get cheaper, said Tim Buckley, the IEEFA’s director of energy finance studies. “I don’t think Trump can stop that,” he said. Despite such changes, the amount of heat-trapping carbon dioxide in the atmosphere rose to a new high last year and is increasing, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Asia alone is expected to account for 70 to 80 percent of the global growth in coal-fired power capacity over the next two decades. Industry experts cautioned that countries including India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Vietnam need to keep adding coal power because it is the only affordable option in a region where 500 million people lack access to electricity. The cost of solar and wind have fallen by up to 80 percent in some markets, but in places such as Bangladesh or parts of China it can still be double that of coal. “We have to meet the basic needs of people while pushing for energy transition at the same time,” said Yongping Zhai, an adviser on energy to the Asian Development Bank. “You will need a mixture of different fuels. Coal will be there. You cannot avoid it.”

Authorities in South Dakota and Iowa confirmed Tuesday that someone apparently used a torch to burn a hole through empty sections of the pipeline at aboveground shut-off valve sites. Mahaska County Sheriff Russell Van Renterghem said the culprit in Iowa appeared to have gotten under a fence around the facility, but Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputy Chad Brown said the site in South Dakota wasn’t fenced. The Iowa incident was discovered March 13 and the South Dakota incident Friday. Pipeline operators are asked to report security breaches to the National Response Center. Data on the center’s website show no reports from ETP this month. The $3.8 billion Dakota Access pipeline runs 1,200 miles through the Dakotas, Iowa and Illinois. How do you attack a pipeline?

Because pipelines mainly run underground, aboveground shut-off valves are natural targets, according to Jay O’Hara, a spokesman for the environmental group Climate Direct Action. That group targeted valves on pipelines in October in North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana and Washington state, though the pipeline companies said activists didn’t succeed because none of the sites were operating when the attacks happened. Explosives, firearms and heavy machinery also have been used to try to sabotage pipelines. Securing pipelines is difficult because they often travel long distances through remote and even uninhabited territory, said Kelly Sundberg, a professor at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alberta, who studies energy infrastructure security and environmental crime. The danger

Sundberg said “it’s stupid and dangerous” to tamper with pipeline shutoff valves. Modern oil pipelines are “incredibly sophisticated” systems that move huge volumes of petrochemicals at high pressures, he said. Simply closing a valve can cause the pressure upstream to increase quickly, creating a significant risk of a spill that endangers the environment and anyone in the area where the pipe suddenly bursts, he said. In response to the October incidents, federal regulators issued a bulletin warning that tampering with pipeline valves “can have significant consequences such as death, injury, and economic and environmental harm.” Sundberg also said that it’s ironic for people who say they’re concerned about the environment to take an action that could cause an environmental disaster. But O’Hara said: “The hypocrisy really lies in the pipeline corporations who say their pipelines are safe, say leaks don’t happen. They blame activists who are trying to stop global cataclysm by taking action to point out what they do every day, which is leak and spill.” Someone who targets a pipeline facility in the US could face up to 20 years in prison. Who’s responsible for the recent attacks?

areas where large tracts of land have been cleared of forests to make way for agriculture, face reputational risks. “Companies are increasingly concerned about this issues. They’re looking to decouple their supply chains from deforestation,”

People celebrating the spring equinox raise their arms as they take in the sun’s energy atop the Pyramid of the Sun at the Teotihuacan archeological site in Mexico on March 21. Although the official vernal equinox occurred on Monday, thousands of visitors were expected to climb the ancient pyramid on Tuesday to greet the sun and celebrate the beginning of spring.(AP)

Kroll told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in an interview. “The market has punished non-compliant actors,” she said, citing a Malaysian palm oil producer which was dropped by corporate customers after investors learned the firm was cutting down tropical forests in Asia. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

Indonesia’s ally against haze: Indonesia is recruiting tribespeople to help fight outbreaks of haze which shroud Southeast Asia every year with a government deal designed to tap into traditional ways of containing forest fires. The region suffers every dry season from a haze caused by smouldering fires, often set deliberately to clear land for pulp and paper and palm oil plantations on Sumatra and Borneo islands. Most of the fires are on peat land which are highly inflammable and often cause fires to spread beyond their intended areas, sending smoke across to neighbours Singapore and Malaysia. For the first time, the Peatlands Restoration Agency — set up by President Joko Widodo in 2016 to fight the fires — has struck a deal with indigenous groups in a bid to tap their traditional knowledge in managing lands and fires. “We realise indigenous groups are already practising good peatland management, using their local wisdom,” the agency’s deputy head Myrna Safitri told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. (RTRS)

No suspects have been identified in either state and no group has claimed responsibility O’Hara told The Associated Press that Climate Direct Action wasn’t involved in any actions against the Dakota Access pipeline.

Also: WASHINGTON: Dutch bank ING Groep on Tuesday said it has agreed to sell its $120 million share of the loan for the Dakota Access Pipeline, the first bank to offload its debt from the project, which faced fierce opposition from Native Americans and environmental groups. The announcement came one month after ING’s head of business ethics met with a representative of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe, which had led a months-long protest to stop completion of the $3.8 billion, 1,172-mile (1,885km) pipeline. At that meeting, ING said it would either continue to “positively influence” the course of the project, or to distance itself by selling its stake in the loan,” the company said in a press release. With oil set to start flowing through the pipeline as soon as this week, after a US judge last week ruled against the tribes seeking to stop its completion, ING said there was less room for lenders to influence the project.

‘Copied character designs, themes, lines of dialogues’

Film

Disney stole ‘Zootopia’, writer claims in US lawsuit LOS ANGELES, March 22, (RTRS): A veteran screenwriter filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday accusing Disney of stealing his idea for the hit animated film “Zootopia.” Gary Goldman alleges that Disney took character designs, themes, lines of dialogue, and even the name “Zootopia” from a project that he first developed in 2000. He alleges that he twice pitched the project to Disney executives, in 2000 and 2009, and was rejected. The lawsuit accuses Disney of a long history of stealing ideas from others, and contends that “Zootopia” is only the most recent example of an embedded corporate practice. “Although The Walt Disney Company rigorously enforces its copyrights, it has developed a culture that not only accepts the unauthorized copying of others’ original material, but encourages it,” Goldman alleges. “Instead of lawfully acquiring Goldman’s work, Defendants said they were not interested in producing it and sent him on his way. Thereafter, consistent with their culture of unauthorized copying, Defendants copied Goldman’s work.” A Disney spokesman flatly rejected the claim. “Goldman’s lawsuit is riddled with patently false allegations,” the spokesman said. “It is an unprincipled attempt to lay claim to a successful film he didn’t create, and we will vigorously defend against it in court.” Goldman alleges that he registered a treatment for a live-action film called “Looney” with the Writers Guild of America, West, in August 2000. According to the suit, “Looney” was to be the first installment

in a “Zootopia” franchise that would also include an animated “Zootopia.” Goldman’s concept included a human animator who creates a cartoon animal world meant to reflect a complex human society. According to Goldman, the society included class and power structures based on the characteristics of different species.

Develop Goldman hired an animator to develop characters, which he alleges are strikingly similar to those in Disney’s “Zootopia.” Goldman’s version features a squirrel named Mimi, who is cute and optimistic, but is not taken seriously and is discriminated against. Goldman alleges the character bears a strong resemblance to Judy, the bunny cop in “Zootopia.” Goldman also developed a hyena character named Roscoe, who is a cynical outcast from society, which he alleges is similar to Nick, the fox in “Zootopia.” In Goldman’s version, the cartoon world was led by Griz, a dominant grizzly bear which Goldman says is similar to Bogo, the police chief in the Disney “Zootopia.” Goldman also claims that Gazelle in the Disney version is based on his own Cha, a cheetah. “Both are Latin female characters, in the bodies of African animals, who are ostensibly attractive and function as performers and sex symbols. Males fall for them even though they are unattainable,” Goldman alleges. “Both are Latin female characters, in the bodies of African animals, who

are ostensibly attractive and function as performers and sex symbols. Males fall for them even though they are unattainable,” Goldman alleges. The lawsuit alleges that both projects advance similar themes, including achieving one’s dreams and overcoming stereotypes. Goldman also claims that “Zootopia” replicates the plot of his own project almost beat for beat. “The heroes work to achieve a career dream that their parents specifically discourage. They go to academies where they excel, achieve recognition for their work, and earn the opportunity to go to the big city for their dream jobs. “In the big city, the heroes come up against strong, powerful, and entrenched bosses who want to maintain control over the heroes. The heroes are obsessed with their work and go to extreme lengths in pursuit of success, even taking principled stances in defiance of their bosses. The heroes have partners who help them achieve success. But success goes to the heroes’ heads and they publicly offend others and alienate their partners, exhibiting their own prejudices. This triggers a job crisis, resulting in the heroes losing their dream jobs and hard-won statuses.” In both projects, the hero returns home and encounters their former bullies, which teaches an important lesson. “The heroes eventually overcome their own prejudices, reconcile with their partners, and finish their unfinished projects. In doing so, they regain their lost statuses and illustrate that one can evolve and become what he or she wants to be,” the suit states.

THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

Features

Variety

In this image released by Lionsgate, Naomi Scott (from left), RJ Cyler, Dacre Montgomery, Ludi Lin and Becky G appear in a scene from ‘Power Rangers’. (AP)

Film Shepard takes ‘CHIPS’ from primetime to ‘Bad Boys’ LOS ANGELES: An episode of an upcoming Japanese-made Netflix series will get a theatrical world premiere next month as the opening film of the Okinawa International Movie Festival. The festival unspools at locations around the island of Okinawa and is backed by leading talent agency Yoshimoto Kogyo. The 9th edition runs April 20-23, 2017. The new show, “Jimmy: Aho Mitai na Honma no Hanashi” (translation: Jimmy: A Seemingly Stupid, but True Story,) is a Netflix original series produced by popular talent MC Sanma Akashiya. “Jimmy” is based on Akashiya’s real-life encounters with the title comic, Jimmy Onishi. The nine-episode series is scheduled to start streaming this summer in 190. Yoshimoto, Akashiya’s agency, is backing the project. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Fox Searchlight has given an awards season release date to “Battle of the Sexes,” starring Emma Stone as Billie Jean King and Steve Carell as Bobby Riggs. The film is scheduled to debut on Sept 22. Variety first reported in 2015 Stone was attached to the project. “Little Miss Sunshine” filmmakers Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris directed from a script by Simon Beaufoy. Danny Boyle is producing under his Decibel Films banner along with Christian Colson and his company Cloud Eight. Shooting began in April in Los Angeles. The competition between King and Riggs captured the public imagination in 1973, when the No. 2 ranked King — who was 29 — beat Riggs, a 55-year-old former Wimbledon champion. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Malaysian censors have approved “Power Rangers” for release in the country, despite the film boasting a character who questions her sexuality. The film will be released from Thursday, uncut, and with a PG-13 certificate. The greenlight comes only

‘Power Rangers’ cheesy, self-serious By Lindsey Bahr here’s a question every piece of intellectual properT ty needs to ask itself before a new version is made: How seriously should we treat the source material? There’s no right answer. There’ve been successful versions of both. Irreverent and meta takes on dated or impossible material have worked (usually thanks to Phil Lord and Chris Miller) as have deathly serious interpretations. In the case of “Power Rangers ,” that cheesy Saturday morning show that cobbled together shameless merchandising goals, dubbed Japanese action footage and sanitized high school shenanigans, they went mostly serious. And it might not have been the best call for a story that still involves a villain named Rita Repulsa who wanders around town eating gold. But we’ll get to her later. Even with such campy morsels to play with, the vibe director Dean Israelite seems to be going for is “Friday Night Lights” meets “Fantastic Four,” which actually isn’t totally awful at the beginning as we meet the five high school students destined to wield their newly found superpowers to save the world. There’s the star football player, Jason (Dacre Montgomery), who’s rebelling against his good-boy image; the once-popular girl Kimberly (Naomi Scott, who looks like a combination of Sarah Michelle Gellar and Emma Roberts); the “on-the-spectrum” Billy (RJ Cyler); the mysterious new girl Trini (Becky G.); and the adventurous Zack (Ludi Lin). They’re angsty teens with secrets and zero perspective so imagine how weird things get when they all happen to be hanging out one night in a restricted mining area, stumble upon some jewels, get into a would-be fatal car crash and wake up with the ability to crush iPhones and scale mountains. It’s hard to muck up the excitement of testing out your newfound superpowers, but then the ridiculous plot has to kick in (and all the requisite origin story clichés) and you can see the film struggling to maintain its straight face while Bryan Cranston’s pin art face bellows at the Rangers and Elizabeth Banks’ Rita Repulsa devours every piece of gold she can find. Banks is actually fairly fun in the part — she snivels and sneers with campy glee under the pounds of zombie makeup as she fiendishly terrorizes some engagement ring shoppers at a jewelry store like she’s the only one

a day after the country’s film appeals system overturned the request last week by the censor board (known as the Lembaga Penapis Filem) to cut “Beauty and the Beast,” which contains what its director Bill Condon had called a “… moment.” Disney refused to cut “Beauty” and chose not to release the film as scheduled last week, pending

who understands what movie she’s in. But good lord does this film overstay its very conditional welcome. Israelite, who also made the occasionally riveting found-footage, time-travel pic “Project Almanac,” gives the images some grit and visual interest but the story just spends too much time on the maudlin coming-of-age and teambuilding. A little less therapy and a little more action would have gone a long way in the mushy middle section. By the time the Power Rangers figure out how to morph, you’re already looking for a way to morph out of the theater, which is a shame because for whatever it’s worth, the cheesiest, most Power Rangers-y moments are saved for the final battle. Much like the teens at the center, “Power Rangers” goes through some awkward growing pains in real time trying to figure out what movie it wants to be or even should be. “Power Rangers,” a Lionsgate release, is rated PG13 by the Motion Picture Association of America for “sequences of sci-fi violence, action and destruction, language, and for some crude humor.” Running time: 124 minutes. One and a half stars out of four. ❑ ❑ ❑ Dax Shepard was only 2 when “CHiPs” started airing on NBC and 8 by the time the popular series about the California Highway Patrol ended. He remembers the show — the sunshine, the motorcycles, the diversity (there weren’t many Latinos in his hometown of Detroit). It was like a vacation from the greyness every night on prime time. But it was a faint memory until recently, when Shepard found himself googling how to spell Poncherello for a joke for a screenplay he was writing and came across a photo of Jon and Ponch looking “kind of cool.” Suddenly he saw something else: A cool “CHiPs,” in the vein of “Lethal Weapon” or “Bad Boys.” Suffice it to say, the names might be the same (other than some punctuation), but “CHIPS” is not your father’s “CHiPs.” The once family friendly show has veered into hard-R territory in the feature film, out Friday. It’s not an uncommon practice. “21 Jump Street” and its sequel, and also “Miami Vice” veered successfully into the

an appeal. (RTRS) ❑ ❑

Stone

Condon



LOS ANGELES: As Europe’s neo-fascists re-emerge and rightwing populism sweeps through the West, a documentary about a black Italian boxer who discredited Benito Mussolini’s racist ideology by winning a European boxing title is making a splash in

R zone, as will this summer’s “Baywatch” remake. And “CHIPS” wasn’t always going to be that way. When Shepard signed on to write, direct and star in the adaptation, it was envisioned as PG-13 with a $45 million budget. When that was slashed to $25 million, Shepard insisted on the R. “I generally like to see R-rated movies and I think you should make what you want to consume even though it’s really tempting to make something you think people want to see,” he said in a recent interview at a Los Feliz coffee shop. Shepard blew into the place, Matcha-filled coffee mug in hand, apologizing for any tardiness. The father of two, a 2-year-old and a 4-yearold, had been up all night with his youngest and was dealing with a hot water heater replacement while his wife, actress Kristen Bell, was out of town. “People don’t usually bring their own Matcha in here, do they?” Shepard asked the barista, who just shook her head “no.” Shepard laughed and ordered another. At 42, Shepard has a few writing and directing credits to his name, including “Brother’s Justice” and “Hit and Run,” but he’s no doubt more widely known for his acting in films like “Idiocracy” and televisions shows like “Punk’d” and “Parenthood.” He didn’t have any delusions of his own star power to actually open a film. When he pitched his modern vision for “CHiPs,” he actually assumed the studio would go with a proven star like Chris Pratt or Channing Tatum for Jon Baker. But Warner Bros. liked Shepard, and his plan to cast Michael Pena as Ponch, and they got the green light. For one, Shepard is an economical director. “Brother’s Justice” cost $5,000 to make and “Hit and Run” cost $1 million. They also had the intellectual property cushion on their side. “I could have never gone to a studio and said, ‘Hey here’s this original comedy called ‘Bonkers for Motorcycles’ and it’s me and Michael Pena and we need $25 million.’ They would have never done it. I knew if I were going to get any movie made it was going to have to be within a brand or a property that provided the studio with some insurance,” Shepard said. “And then I get to make a completely original movie that just has the known title in it.” (AP)

Italy and abroad. “The Duce’s Boxer” tells the story of Leone Jacovacci, an African Italian born in the Congo who won the 1928 European middleweight title by beating Mario Bosisio a white Italian boxer favored by the country’s Fascist leaders, in front of 40,000 fans in Rome’s National Stadium.

An infuriated Mussolini then ordered Jacovacci and his achievement erased from Italy’s history books. But 89 years later, Jacovacci’s story has resurfaced, with “The Duce’s Boxer” premiering Tuesday in 25 Italian cities to mark the UN International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

NEWS/FEATURES

20

People & Places Media ‘Our life is here’

Aussie couple ‘first’ to own US radio stations JUNEAU, Alaska, March 22, (Agencies): An Australian couple with roots in Alaska has bought more than two dozen radio stations in three states, marking the first time federal regulators have allowed full foreign ownership of US radio stations. The Federal Communications Commission recently approved a request by Richard and Sharon Burns through their company Frontier Media to increase their interest in 29 radio stations in Alaska, Texas and Arkansas from 20 percent to 100 percent. The agency long took what some viewed as a hard line in limiting foreign ownership under a 1930s law that harkened to war-time propaganda fears. But in 2013, it acknowledged a willingness to ease up after broadcasters complained the rules were too restrictive of outside investment. The Burnses are citizens of Australia but have lived and worked in the US since 2006, on special visas offered for Australians. A family who owned six of the Alaska stations provided the opportunity that brought the couple to the US The family wanted someone with international experience to operate the stations and help move the Richard company forward, Richard Burns said. The stations in the Lower 48 were purchased later. The Burnses’ request to acquire full ownership was unopposed. The acquisition includes AM and FM stations and relay stations known as translators that help provide reception. Richard Burns said he and his wife consider Alaska home and are pursuing US citizenship. “Our life is here in Juneau, Alaska, every single day,” said Burns, who serves on the board of the Juneau Chamber of Commerce and in 2010 was named its citizen of the year.

In this March 2 photo, Kevin Coleman (right rear), director of Education at Shakespeare & Co, works with a teenage man (left rear), playing the role of a soldier, as another young man (left front), portraying Macbeth, practices a sword fight with another young man (right front), portraying Macduff during a rehearsal for Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. (AP)

Owns Sharon Burns co-hosts a morning show on a Juneau country station the couple owns, and does on-air work for two of their other stations in southeast Alaska and one in Texas, her husband said. Richard Burn is the stations’ CEO and a host on their Juneau classic hits station. The federal law restricting foreign ownership dates to the 1930s and initially was seen as a way to thwart the airing of foreign propaganda during wartime, according to the FCC. It restricts to 25 percent foreign ownership or voting interests in a company that holds a broadcast license when the commission finds that limit is in the public interest. In 2013, in response to broadcasters, interest groups and others who considered the commission’s application of the law too rigid, the FCC clarified it has the authority to review on a case-by-case basis requests exceeding that threshold, and it is open to doing so. The commission last year adopted rules for publicly traded companies following a case involving Pandora Media and questions about its level of foreign ownership as it pursued acquisition of a South Dakota radio station. Then-FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler said the case underscored the need for more clarity for broadcasters and investors in the review process. It’s unclear how many other foreign citizens have a stake in US radio stations. The FCC said it does not keep a comprehensive accounting because stations generally don’t have to disclose smaller or nonvoting interest holders. Lisa Scanlan, deputy chief of the FCC’s audio division, said that as part of its public interest analysis, the commission consults with executive branch agencies that do independent reviews on issues including trade and foreign policy, national security and law enforcement.

Concerns Jessica Gonzalez is deputy director and senior counsel for the group Free Press, which has concerns about media consolidation. She said she’s not opposed to the Burnses’ case. But she said the larger the company, the more skeptical she becomes. “I’m not fond at all of the idea of giant foreign companies or giant domestic companies buying up a bunch of radio stations,” she said. “It’s problematic.” She said an owner’s nationality doesn’t make a difference to her. “It’s just a matter of whether or not they are actually going to serve their community,” she said. Richard Burns agreed. He said it’s critical for radio station owners to be invested in the communities they serve. He cited his wife, who does her show from Texas when she’s there. Around Christmas last year, Sharon Burns delivered cookies to and spent time with first responders.

Also: LOS ANGELES: Basketball fans can now stream March Madness games in virtual reality, for a price: A newly-introduced VR Premium Ticket will give Samsung Gear VR owners access to the Final Four semifinals, the championship game as well as select Sweet 16 and Elite 8 games in 360-degree video. This isn’t the first time March Madness has been streamed in VR. Last year, Turner Sports live streamed the finals live in 360-degree video in cooperation with CBS and Oculus. That first live game was free, but this year around, consumers will actually have to pay. March Madness in VR is coming with two pricing tiers: A golden ticket, which costs $2.99 per game or $7.99 for all six games, will offer access to multiple courtside cameras and dedicated VR commentary from Spero Dedes, Steve Smith and Lisa Byington. A silver ticket, which costs $1.99 per game, will offer access to just one 360-degree camera feed, and the same commentary that can also be heard on CBS’s national broadcast feed. ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday rejected a bid by FilmOn to stream broadcast channels over the Internet under a provision of the Copyright Act of 1976. FilmOn argues that it should be allowed to stream broadcast TV online under an exception to the Copyright Act intended for cable operators. The act granted cable companies the right to a “compulsory license” to distribute broadcast channels for a nominal fee. But in its ruling, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit found that Congress did not envision that the exception would apply to internet-based distribution. Overturning a district court ruling, the panel reinstated a copyright claim against FilmOn filed by the major broadcasters, including Fox, NBC, CBS, and Disney.

Theater Sentenced to Shakespeare

For juveniles, world’s a stage

Actress Scarlett Johansson poses during a photocall for the French premiere of ‘Ghost of the Shell’ in Paris on March 21. (AP)

Variety LONDON: Actor George Clooney has startled an 87-year-old fan in Britain by showing up at her assisted living facility with flowers and a card to wish her a happy birthday. The 55-year-old popped in for a chat and a picture with admirer Pat Adams on Sunday at the Sunrise of Sonning Retirement and Assisted Living Facility in Reading. Linda Jones, a worker there, posted a picture of herself and the beaming pair on Facebook. Jones wrote: “The lady in the picture, loves George Clooney and mentions everyday how she would love him to meet him, especially as he lives so near to where I work.” A letter was sent to Clooney asking if he could make a “dream to come true.” Clooney owns a home near the facility in Berkshire. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Tom Hanks, Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin and Amy Poehler are among the notables set to appear on a telethon to benefit the ACLU that will stream March 31 via Facebook Live. “Stand for Rights: A Benefit for the ACLU” is billed as a modern-day telethon to raise funds for the venerable advocacy organization that has been working overtime with legal challenges to aspects of President Trump’s political agenda. “Our work in the courts is essential right now to hold off the worst of the abuses,” said ACLU executive director Anthony D. Romero. “But it is also the collective will and tireless actions of ‘we the people’ that serve as a bulwark against unconstitutional and wrong-headed policies and executive orders. By supporting our work through this telethon, we can fight even harder to defend the rights guaranteed by our Constitution.” (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ MADRID: A spokeswoman for Antonio Banderas says the actor is in “perfectly good health” after undergoing medical examinations in a Swiss clinic in recent days. The spokeswoman with Media Art Management in Spain denied reports Monday that the 56-year-old Spanish actor, known for “Zorro” and “Desperado,” had been admitted to hospital at the Genolier clinic near Geneva. She declined to be identified. On Monday Banderas posted a video on his official Facebook page, showing him climbing a wall in Switzerland. “It seems like some media suffered a Heart Press Attack,” he wrote, referring to the name for celebrity gossip media in Spanish. Banderas said he would travel later this week to his hometown Malaga to receive an award for his career as actor, director and film producer. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

PITTSFIELD, Mass, March 22, (AP): For some juvenile offenders, their choice is straight out of Hamlet: to act or not to act. Shakespeare & Company, a theater company in Lenox, Massachusetts, works with the courts to get youngsters who run afoul of the law sentenced to perform works of Shakespeare onstage as an alternative to community service or juvenile detention. Juveniles sentenced to Shakespeare read the bard’s works, take on the role of one or more of his characters, come up with ideas for costumes and sets, memorize their lines, rehearse and then act out their roles for an audience of family, friends and court personnel. The kids almost always hate the idea of performing Shakespeare at first, but by the end of the six-week program, many say they’ve found new friends and a new sense of accomplishment. “Honestly, you would never catch me doing this stuff if I didn’t have to, but it’s taught me teamwork and to just chill out and listen,” said one 17-yearold boy who will play Macbeth in a March 22 production that will include scenes and monologues from various Shakespeare plays. Similar Shakespeare programs are offered to inmates in prisons around the country as a way of boosting selfconfidence and literacy. For the past 17 years, Shakespeare in the Courts has been used to sentence youths accused of a variety of lowerlevel crimes, including larceny, assault and battery and vandalism. In 2007, the program won a national “Coming Up Taller” award from the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities. The probation officers, teachers and others who work in the program hope it will help the teens respect the feelings of others, fulfill a commitment and foster a sense of pride. “I never really tried acting or theater, so coming in, it was challenging,” said the 17-year-old playing Macbeth, shortly after practicing the famous sword-fighting scene during a recent rehearsal at a Pittsfield church. The Associated Press is not using the teens’ names because they are minors and their identities are protected by the court. The program was started by Paul Perachi, a former high school principal who recruited the theater company to work with his students. Years later, after he became a judge, Perachi asked the theater group to develop a Shakespeare program for juvenile offenders. Since then, Kevin Coleman, a founding member of Shakespeare & Company, has worked with more than 300 teenagers, many who have strug-

LOS ANGELES: The Anne Frank Center for Mutual Respect is calling on Tim Allen to apologize for comparing the experience of being a conservative in Hollywood to living in Germany in the 1930s. Allen made the comments on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” last week while discussing his attendance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration. Of Hollywood, Allen said “you’ve got to be real careful around here or you’ll get beat up.” He add-

‘Gibson a great man’

Opera tells baseball star’s story n opera about Negro Leagues baseball star Josh Gibson, whose power hitting rivaled Babe Ruth’s, will have its world premiere in Pittsburgh in April. “The Summer King,” presented by Pittsburgh Opera, premieres April 29. Gibson’s story also figured in “Fences,” the movie starring Denzel Washington that was originally a play by Pittsburgh native August Wilson. Baseball and opera “don’t usually inhabit the same universe,” said Christopher Hahn, Pittsburgh Opera’s general director. But opera is the perfect medium for telling Gibson’s story because opera allows people “to sing about emotions and aspirations and fears.” Gibson was one of the first three Negro Leagues players to be inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame, which lists his career batting average as .350. He was twice named Negro National League batting champ and led the league in home runs three times. He played for two Pittsburgh teams, the Homestead Grays and the Crawfords. Gibson died at 35, probably from a brain aneurysm, a few months before Jackie Robinson integrated baseball in 1947. Gibson’s story is “the story that came before Jackie Robinson,” says Daniel Sonenberg, composer of “The Summer King.” “Josh’s career made the advent of Jackie

Robinson possible. It was Josh who played at this high level that caught the attention of white owners. It was Josh who demonstrated it was competitive suicide not to integrate.” But baseball’s integration led to the Negro Leagues’ shutdown, ending careers for dozens of black athletes who were not among the few chosen for white teams. Both “Fences” and “The Summer King” honor “a whole generation of wonderful players whose livelihoods and social structures got up-ended,” Hahn said. Several threads in “Fences” echo Gibson’s story. Troy Maxson, the fictional character played by Washington, is a former Negro Leagues star. He tells Gibson’s story, expressing bitterness that he and other ex-players ended up “without a pot to piss in or a window to throw it out.” Maxson’s mistress — like Gibson’s wife — dies in childbirth. Pittsburgh Opera partnered on “The Summer King” with the Josh Gibson Foundation, run by Gibson’s great-grandson Sean. He says that while “Fences” brought some attention to his great-grandfather, the opera will tell a fuller story. “Most people know the story of Josh Gibson as a baseball player, a home run hitter compared to Babe Ruth with outstanding statistics, in the Hall of Fame,” Sean Gibson said. “But behind the uniform was a great man who lived through tragedy outside of dealing with racism and playing baseball: His wife died giving birth to their twins.” (AP)

gled with poverty and family issues. “We take baby steps into it, because they’d rather go to jail than be involved in this project,” Coleman said. “We get them to work together as a group, getting them to talk about themselves, getting them to name feelings. And then, bit by bit, we start with small bits of text, then larger amounts of text, then individual soliloquies and then group scenes.” During a recent rehearsal, three girls appeared to relish their roles as witches in “Macbeth,” creeping and crouching, then leaping around a small table. “Fair is foul, and foul is fair!” they chanted. Only a handful of teens have refused to participate or dropped out before finishing the program, Coleman said. Those teens have been sent back to the judge to be resentenced to

community service or another alternative program. Juvenile Court Judge Joan McMenemy said the program stems from a rehabilitative approach to juvenile justice. “This just broadens their horizons beyond what they could have had if they had been sentenced to pick up trash on the side of the road or other community service options,” McMenemy said. The program’s success is difficult to measure because the court hears only occasional anecdotal information about what the participants do later in life. But McMenemy said one indicator of success may be the huge smiles on the kids’ faces when they stand on stage after their performance and hear applause from their family, friends and teachers.

By Beth J. Harpaz

A

Clooney

Hanks

ed, “If you don’t believe what everybody believes, this is like thirties Germany.” In a statement, Anne Frank Center executive director Steven Goldstein calls on Allen to “apologize to the Jewish people.” He tells Allen that “no one in Hollywood today is subjecting you or anyone else to what the Nazis imposed on Jews in the 1930s” Allen’s representative didn’t immediately return a request for comment. (AP)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

NEWS/FEATURES

21

Obits Colin Dexter dead

‘Gong Show’ creator Barris dies aged 87 NEW YORK, March 22, (AP): Chuck Barris, whose game show empire included “The Dating Game,” “The Newlywed Game” and that infamous factory of cheese, “The Gong Show,” died at 87. Barris died of natural causes Tuesday afternoon at his home in Palisades, New York, according to publicist Paul Shefrin, who announced the death on behalf of Barris’ family. Barris made game show history right off the bat, in 1966, with “The Dating Game,” hosted by Jim Lange. The gimmick: a young female questions three males, hidden from her view, to determine which would be the best date. Sometimes the process was switched, with a male questioning three females. But in all cases the questions were designed by the show’s writers to elicit sexy answers. Celebrities and future celebrities who appeared as contestants included Michael Jackson, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Steve Martin and a pre-“Charlie’s Angels” Farrah Fawcett, introduced as “an accomplished artist and sculptress” with a dream to open her own gallery. After the show became a hit on both daytime and nighttime TV, the Barris machine accelBarris erated. New products included “The Newlywed Game,” “The Parent Game,” “The Family Game” and even “The Game Game.” At one point Barris was supplying the television networks with 27 hours of entertainment a week, mostly in five-days-a-week daytime game shows. The grinning, curly-haired Barris became a familiar face as creator and host of “The Gong Show,” which aired from 1976 to 1980.

Models display creations by Russian fashion designer Valentin Yudashkin at Moscow Fashion Week in Moscow, Russia on March 21. (AP)

Music McCartney & Costello … the album that never was

Peculiar Patterned after the Major Bowes Amateur Hour show that was a radio hit in the 1930s, the program featured performers who had peculiar talents and, often, no talent at all. When the latter appeared on the show, Barris would strike an oversize gong, the show’s equivalent of vaudeville’s hook. The victims would then be mercilessly berated by the manic Barris, with a hat often yanked down over his eyes and ears, and a crew of second-tier celebrities. Occasionally, someone would actually launch a successful career through the show. One example was the late country musician BoxCar Willie, who was a 1977 “Gong Show” winner. He called himself “The King of Daytime Television,” but to critics he was “The King of Schlock” or “The Baron of Bad Taste.” As “The Gong Show” and Barris’ other series were slipping, he sold his company for a reported $100 million in 1980 and decided to go into films. He directed and starred in “The Gong Show Movie,” a thundering failure that stayed in theaters only a week. Afterward, a distraught Barris checked into a New York hotel and wrote his autobiography, “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” in two months. In it, he claimed to have been a CIA assassin. The book (and the 2002 film based on it, directed by George Clooney) were widely dismissed by disbelievers who said the creator of some of television’s most lowbrow game shows had allowed his imagination to run wild when he claimed to have spent his spare time traveling the world, quietly rubbing out enemies of the United States. “It sounds like he has been standing too close to the gong all those years,” quipped CIA spokesman Tom Crispell. “Chuck Barris has never been employed by the CIA and the allegation that he was a hired assassin is absurd,” Crispell added. Barris, who offered no corroboration of his claims, was unmoved. “Have you ever heard the CIA acknowledge someone was an assassin?” he once asked. Seeking escape from the Hollywood rat race, he moved to a villa in the south of France in the 1980s with his girlfriend and future second wife, Robin Altman, and made only infrequent returns to his old haunts over the next two decades. Back in the news in 2002 to help publicize “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind,” Barris said his shows were a forerunner to today’s popular reality TV series. Born in Philadelphia in 1929, Charles Barris was left destitute, along with his sister and their mother, when his dentist father died of a stroke. After graduating from the Drexel Institute of Technology in 1953, he took a series of jobs, including book salesman and fight promoter. ❑ ❑ ❑ Colin Dexter, the unassuming British writer who created curmudgeonly, music-loving Oxford detective Inspector Morse, has died aged 86. Publisher Pan Macmillan said Dexter died Tuesday at his home in Oxford, southern England. Macmillan publisher Jeremy Trevathan said Dexter “represented the absolute epitome of British crime writing.” “With Colin’s death there has been a tectonic shift in the international crime writing scene,” he said. Crime writer Ian Rankin tweeted that Dexter was “a gentle man with a steel mind; and the creator of such an iconic character.” Born in 1930 in Stamford, central England, Dexter studied classics at Cambridge University and became a teacher, examiner and textbook author before turning to fiction. He began writing a detective novel to help pass the time during a wet vacation in Wales. “Last Bus to Woodstock,” published in 1975, introduced Morse, a detective with a love of real ale, classical music and crosswords — and for a long time, no first name, at least not one disclosed to readers. In the 1996 novel “Death is Now My Neighbor” his given name was revealed to be Endeavour. Morse, accompanied by the trustworthy Sgt. Lewis, solved murders and mysteries in the ancient English university city in 13 novels until Dexter killed him off in “The Remorseful Day” in 1999. Some fans were distraught to see Morse go. “I get letters from people who are very fed up and say they are not going to forgive me,” Dexter said the following year. “But he’s been with me for 27 years and I’m going to miss him more than anybody.” Dexter shared his hero’s affection for good beer, classical music and crossword puzzles, but by all accounts lacked his prickly nature. Maria Rejt, Dexter’s editor at Macmillan, said he would be remembered for “his loyalty, modesty and self-deprecating humor.” “His was the sharpest mind and the biggest heart, and his wonderful novels and stories will remain a testament to both,” Rejt said.

‘Flowers in Dirt’ a landmark work

DJ Jazzy Jeff arrives at a premiere for ‘Upscale with Prentice Penny’ at The London Hotel on March 21, in West Hollywood, California. (AP)

Jean

Brown

Variety LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department apologized on Tuesday for briefly detaining Grammy-winning hip hop artist Wyclef Jean in handcuffs during a robbery investigation, after Jean said he was “treated like a criminal” by law enforcement officers. The sheriff’s department released a statement describing its investigation in the early hours of Monday morning into a violent robbery in West Hollywood, a trendy municipality neighboring Los Angeles, and apologized “for any inconvenience this process caused Mr. Jean.” “It is unfortunate that Mr. Jean was detained for six minutes during this investigation, as he had no involvement whatsoever in this violent crime,” the sheriff’s department said. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Spice Girl Melanie ‘Mel B’ Brown filed for divorce from her husband after nearly 10 years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. Court papers filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday show that British pop star Brown, 41, and husband Stephen Belafonte, a TV producer, have been separated since December. Brown requested joint legal and physical custody of the couple’s daughter, five-yearold Madison Brown Belafonte. Representatives for Brown did not immediately respond to Reuters for comment and efforts to reach Belafonte were unsuccessful. Brown, best known as Scary Spice in 1990s British pop group Spice Girls, married Belafonte in June 2007. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

NEW YORK, March 22, (AP): Paul McCartney’s “Flowers in the Dirt” box is as much an archeology project as a reissue, in which listeners can discover the bones of a landmark album that could have been made but wasn’t. Two of the reissue’s three audio discs are devoted to McCartney’s songwriting collaboration with Elvis Costello in 1987 and 1988, which produced some 15 songs. Listening to the work, some of it first made available this week, it’s hard not to wonder why they didn’t make a duet album like Costello later did with Burt Bacharach. Instead, they decided not to alter their original plan. The mythical disc could have started with “My Brave Face” and “Veronica,” two of each man’s biggest hits of the 1980s. And that was only the beginning. “Looking back, you could say that,” McCartney told The Associated Press. “If we’d just done a few more of these demos, we could have made a crazy album. But we didn’t. That was as far as we got.” McCartney initiated the partnership at the suggestion of his manager. The former Beatle was looking for varied sounds, styles and producers as he began work on a new album. McCartney and Costello worked for a few weeks in a room above McCartney’s studio in Sussex, England, where they’d write a song a day and immediately go downstairs to record it, sitting with acoustic guitars and singing together. “There were many echoes, working with Elvis and working with John (Lennon), because I know Elvis is a big Beatles fan,” McCartney said. “He was a John fan, he wears glasses, he plays guitar right-handed.” They’re all from Liverpool, too. McCartney worked with Costello as he did with Lennon, two men with acoustic guitars sitting across from one another. With McCartney left-handed, it felt to him like looking into a mirror. “I think the key was not to turn up in short trousers with my Fan Club card sticking out of my top pocket,” Costello said. “I’d been asked to write songs in 1987, knowing what I know, having done what I’d done for that whole 10 years, which seemed like a long time then. Paul knows what he’s done and known as Baby Bash. The rappers were arrested in December along with eight other people on a charge of engaging in organized criminal activity

Winning lyrics capture hope and fear

Barber-turned-rapper wins Afghan Star KABUL, March 22, (RTRS): A barber-turned-rapper has been crowned the winner of an Afghan talent show that offered its audience some relief from daily stories of insurgents and suicide bombs. Sayed Jamal Mubarez, from Afghanistan’s long-marginalised Hazara ethnic minority, won viewers over with lyrics capturing both the hope and despair of young people living through a war against Taliban militants now in its sixteenth year. “Afghan Star”, modelled on singing contests popular across the world, is in its 12th season on Afghanistan’s biggest private television network Tolo. This year’s edition stood out after a female - 18-year old singer Zulala Hashimi from the deeply conservative east of the country - reached the final for the first time, defying widespread attitudes against women performers. But Mubarez emerged the winner later on Tuesday, looking every bit the budding rapper with his tilted red baseball cap and razor-trimmed beard.

“I am so happy...I would have been happy if Zulala had won it because in Afghanistan women are living in a restricted situation,” the 23-year old said after accepting his award at a television studio housed behind wire-topped blast walls in Kabul’s diplomatic enclave. The sole breadwinner at his home in the northern city of Mazari-Sharif, Mubarez said he discovered rap in Iran and spits lyrics while cutting hair. The contest has been held inside a fortified compound for the last two series after the Taliban last year killed seven Tolo employees in a suicide attack on a staff minibus. Newer musicians can struggle to make it big in Afghanistan, where the Taliban once banned music and many disapprove of Westernstyle popular culture, and artists often seek the safety and freedom of a life abroad. Mubarez told Reuters he intends to turn professional if he can find financial support, and would otherwise return to his barber shop while rapping on the side.

he knows I love him. “That said, you’re bound to look up sometimes and think, ‘Bloody hell, it’s him!’,” he said. In this week’s reissue, one disc contains nine of those 15 songs, recorded the day they were written. Another disc features the same songs produced by the two men later with a band added, primarily sung by McCartney since it was his album, after all. To a certain extent, something is lost in translation. Take the song “Tommy’s Coming Home,” for instance. Inspired fun with McCartney and Costello singing together, the tempo slows and the song drags in the full band version. “I didn’t realize until looking back later that these demos had a special groove and a freshness and, I think on a few of the recorded versions, we lost

some of that freshness,” McCartney said. “It gives an idea of the spontaneity of the writing. There’s a time that you regret that we didn’t just say, ‘This is it, this is good enough.’ Often when you don’t think you’re making the final record, you’re a bit looser ... I think some of those performances are better than the ones on the record.” The two-man recordings “have a lot of charm and a good deal of cheek,” Costello said. “You can almost hear us laughing at loud at what I call, ‘the Mersey cadences.’ It’s in the blood. It’s in the water. It’s in him and it’s got to come out.” Since both are strong-willed men used to being in charge of their music, you’d have to wonder whether the easy creativity of the songwriting sessions would have lasted through the grunt work of making polished recordings.

for possessing a controlled substance with intent to deliver. The Harris County district attorney’s office says grand jurors did indict five of the

LOS ANGELES: Broadway star Idina Menzel says she has not yet grown tired of singing her big hit “Let It Go,” even as she embarks on a 50-city world tour. Menzel, the star of musicals “Wicked” and “Rent,” said she gets to see new nuances in the Oscar-winning theme song from Disney’s 2013 animated film “Frozen.” “I do that with ‘Let It Go,’ and I also use it as a time to connect with the young people in my audience and have them sing along,” Menzel told Reuters Television. “I have a 7-year-old boy, so as a mom it’s such a great message of empowerment and teaching our kids to really be themselves so I’m just really proud of it.” (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

HOUSTON: A grand jury has declined to indict Houston rappers Paul Wall and Baby Bash on felony drug-related charges. The Harris County jury on Tuesday opted not to hand up indictments against Paul Michael Slayton, more broadly known as Paul Wall, and Ronald Bryant,

This Oct 27, 2000 file photo of British author Colin Dexter after receiving an Order of the British Empire. (AP)

people initially charged in the matter. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

NEW YORK: Tina Fey’s stage adaptation of “Mean Girls” will make its world premiere at The National Theatre in Washington, D.C. The new musical is based on the 2004 film about a naive girl who falls in love with her new high school’s coolest, prettiest, most treacherous triumvirate of girls, called The Plastics. The show will run from Oct 31-Dec 3. It will feature a story by Fey, based on her screenplay for the film, music by three-time Emmy Award winner Jeff Richmond (“30 Rock,” “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt”), and lyrics by Tony Award-nominee Nell Benjamin (“Legally Blonde”). Tony Award-winner Casey Nicholaw (“The Book of Mormon”) will direct and choreograph. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Natalie Portman may have skipped the Oscars this year due to her pregnancy, but that didn’t stop the “Jackie” actress from filming a music video just days before giving birth. James Blake featured the expectant mother in his video for “My Willing Heart,” released on Monday. The black and white video, directed by Anna Rose Holmer, features a very pregnant Portman swimming in a pool and later caressing her baby bump. Later, an dramatic first-person perspective shot shows her baby squirming and kicking in utero. (RTRS)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

22

‘Government fails to deliver on promises’

Naan starter: UK curry houses feel betrayal by Brexit LONDON, March 22, (AP): MohammedFaizul Haque makes it all look so easy. To a pan full of sizzling chicken he adds a ladle of orangey base sauce and then lemon, sending flames shooting up. He reaches to a line of vessels for pinches of cumin, coriander, salt, chili and garlic, the feel of the ingredients between his fingers as his only measure. After the demonstration, he sends a plate of Balti kuchi chili chicken upstairs to the dining room at the Taste of India in London. Haque’s deft touch isn’t easy to replicate — and that’s a problem for Britain’s curry houses, which are shutting down at a rate of two a week, in part because there aren’t enough chefs and kitchen staff. Curry restaurant owners, who as an industry backed the campaign to leave the European Union after assurances it would lead to more visas for South Asian cooks, feel betrayed. They’re angry that they helped deliver the vote to Leave only to have the government fail to deliver on promises to help save their industry. Rather than easing the shortage, Brexit is likely to make the situation worse by cutting off the flow of East European workers who have increasingly filled the gaps in recent years. “What’s happening since Brexit is even more restaurants are closing; we can’t get people from anywhere,” said Oli Khan, the senior vice president of the Bangladesh Caterers Association UK and a celebrity chef. “Curry houses are in danger.”

Polish engaged couple Pawel Bednarek, a builder, and Aga Pozniak, who teaches training courses for adults, pose for photographs outside where they work part-time to supplement their incomes, at the Taste of India curry restaurant in London. (AP)

Brexit is just the latest problem to hit the South Asian restaurant industry in a country where chicken tikka masala is as much the national dish as fish and chips. In addition to a chef shortage, Britain’s 12,000 curry restaurants are struggling with competition from prepared supermarket meals, high delivery costs,

and rising food prices from a lower pound. Though casually called Indian food, most curry houses are run by Bangladeshi immigrants and their offspring who fused South Asian flavors with British tastes to create a new cuisine worth an estimated 4.5 billion pounds ($5.6 billion) to the economy annually.

For example, the humble papadum isn’t traditionally served as a starter, said Enam Ali, owner of Le Raj in Epsom. It became an appetizer when restaurants tried to accommodate Britons accustomed to being served bread when they sat down. The onion bhaji was adapted from onion rings. What is at stake, Ali says, is not the heritage of Bangladesh, but the heritage of Britain. “I’ve given my life in the curry industry and I can see with my own eyes that it is disappearing,” Ali said. “I really feel the government should intervene before it is too late.” The unease of the curry houses is replicated in ways large and small across Britain, as Prime Minister Theresa May prepares to start the legal process of leaving the EU next week. High-tech companies in search of engineers, farmers in need of fruit pickers and builders looking for construction workers have all raised concerns about possible staff shortages. The hospitality industry is particularly worried. An analysis from the Oxford Migration Observatory shows some 89,000 people from many of the EU’s new entrant countries in the east are working in food and beverage services. May has taken a tough stance on immigration after anger about high arrival numbers fueled last year’s vote to leave the EU. While exiting the bloc will allow Britain to eventually limit European immigration, the government has so far refused to relax the rules for

migrants from non-EU countries. “Leaving the European Union allows Britain to take control of our immigration system,” the Home office said in a statement. “We are working across government to identify and develop options to shape our future system to ensure the best possible outcome for the British people.” The rules now require migrants from outside the EU to have a job paying some 35,000 pounds ($43,600) a year— more than many nurses make in Britain. Curry houses, which mostly sell food at reasonable prices, can’t meet that standard. The curry owners have in recent years filled the gap by hiring Eastern Europeans, particularly Poles and Romanians. Between 5,000 and 6,000 curry house workers are East Europeans out of a total 150,000. These workers sometimes have had trouble communicating with chefs, who found themselves learning the Romanian words for green pepper and onion. And many of the workers had never even seen a curry, unlike earlier migrants from South Asia who often aspired to open curry houses of their own. But the Eastern Europeans didn’t balk at long hours chopping vegetables and washing dishes. Take Aga Pozniak, a qualified teacher form Lodz in central Poland. Though she now serves customers in front of house at Taste of India, she started out as a kitchen assistant.

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Latest Chinese Embassy notice: Documents

This Jan 20, 2017 photo shows nan pizza at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. (AP)

Chicken tikka masala serves as sauce and toppings in one

Naan pizza fun way to eat Indian flavors By Elizabeth Karmel his naan pizza is a fun way to eat the flavors T of India in America’s favorite food. The popular chicken tikka masala is widely believed to have been created in England for the British palate and is actually the national dish. But it is so tasty that restaurant diners have demanded that the dish is made worldwide. This naan pizza is a fun way to eat the flavors of India in America’s favorite food. The popular chicken tikka masala is widely believed to have been created in England for the British palate and is actually the national dish. But it is so tasty that restaurant diners have demanded that the dish is made worldwide. These days, naan — Indian flatbread — is available in nearly every grocery store. It can be plain or flavored, and even stuffed. Naan used to be an occasional treat when I’d go out to eat at an Indian restaurant. It was hard not to fill up on the naan before the meal arrived. But now that naan is as available as pita bread, you can enjoy it at home. The small size and light and airy texture of store-bought naan makes it a shoe-in for a quick pre-made pizza crust. And because I wanted to keep the pizza in the spirit of India, I am topping the pizza with chicken tikka masala which is tailor-made for pizza as it is the sauce and toppings in one. The ever-popular dish is chock-full of chunks of chicken simmered in an aromatic, creamy and slightly spicy tomato sauce full of onions, garlic, ginger, cumin and turmeric. This sauce is the perfect thing to brighten up a boneless, skinless chicken breast and will “dress” to impress grilled shrimp and countless vegetables. I used to think that I could only have this exotic sauce in an Indian restaurant, but truth be told, it is one of the easiest pan sauces to make.

Naan pizza with chicken tikka masala Servings: 6 Start to finish: 55 minutes 2 tablespoons clarified butter (ghee); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups white onions, finely chopped (1 large onion); 3 cloves garlic, grated; 1 inch piece of ginger root, grated; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons smoked sweet paprika; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon

Crispy on the outside, tangy and creamy on the inside

Greek style roasted potatoes are delicious side dish

Start to finish: 1 hour 20 minutes (20 minutes active) Servings: 6 2 pounds Yukon Gold or other all-purpose or boiling potatoes; Kosher salt; 1/4

cup fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for oiling the pan; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano; Black pepper. Preheat oven to 450 F. Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1-inch pieces. In a medium saucepan combine the potatoes with salted cold water to cover by 2 inches. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer the potatoes for 5 minutes. While they are simmering, in a large bowl whisk together the lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon salt until the salt is dissolved and then whisk in 1 tablespoon of the oil. Drain the potatoes well, and while they are still hot, add them to the bowl and toss. Leave them in the bowl for 15 minutes, stirring several times to make sure that the liquid is well distributed. Add the remaining 1/4 cup oil and combine well, being careful not to break up the potatoes. Line a rimmed sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil and brush it with oil. Transfer the potatoes to the pan and spread them out in one layer. Roast the potatoes on the middle shelf of the oven, turning them several times, until they are golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove them from the oven and toss them with the parsley, oregano and pepper to taste. (AP)

Add tomato paste, paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, turmeric and cinnamon. Saute for a couple more minutes to “toast” the spices. Add the crushed tomatoes and chunks of chicken. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer about 20 minutes with the lid on. Stir occasionally. Stir in cream. Continue to simmer on low heat with the lid off, stirring occasionally until the sauce is reduced and the consistency of thick gravy. The sauce can be made in advance and kept for 2 days in the refrigerator.

To use: Preheat oven to 400 F. Lay the naan out on a rack set into a sheet pan and sprinkle a small amount of the grated cheese on the bread. Top the cheese with the tikka masala, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edge. Sprinkle the top with more grated cheese. Place in the oven for about 15 minutes. The pizza is done when the cheese is melted and the edges are crisp. Remove from the oven and brush the edges with a little olive oil while it is still hot. Serve and enjoy. (AP)

By Sara Moulton

W

ith two big feast days looming – Easter and Passover – I thought I’d offer up a simple but delicious side dish. I’m talking about the lemony roasted potatoes that are one of the dependable delights on the menu at a Greek restaurant. They’re crispy on the outside, but tangy and creamy on the inside ... and surprisingly easy to make. The key is to start by only partially cooking the potatoes five minutes, then pull them off the heat. Then drain them and, while they’re still hot, toss them with lemon juice and salt. The potatoes will soak up the flavorings like a sponge. The next step is the one that creates the crispy crust: Coat them with oil and roast them in an oven. The final touch? Toss the potatoes with fresh chopped herbs right before you serve them. I prefer parsley and oregano, but they’d be great with rosemary or basil, too. What are the best kinds of spuds for this dish? The top of the list is occupied by boiling potatoes and all-purpose potatoes because they hold their shape when roasted. Yukon Golds are my particular favorite. Russet potatoes aka baking potatoes, the most famous being the Idaho would fall apart. If you manage not to eat them all in one sitting, you’ll love these guys all over again turmeric powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 cups crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream or sour cream; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese; 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 4 prepared naan bread.

Heat clarified butter or ghee and olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan. Sautee onions until translucent. Add garlic and ginger. Stir to combine and continue sauteing until the garlic and ginger begin to turn golden.

This March 6, 2017 photo, shows Greek-style roasted lemon potatoes in New York. (AP) as leftovers. That’s because they happen to make terrific hash browns. Just saute some chopped onion in oil or butter in a skillet over medium-low heat until it’s caramelized, add the potatoes, then mush them down with a potato masher or fork until they form a big pancake. Brown it slowly on both sides and you’re done. That lemony edge makes these hash browns a particularly toothsome variation on the standard version.

Greek style roasted lemon potatoes

issued in Kuwait and to be used in China mainland shall first be notarized and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Kuwait, and then be legalised by Chinese Embassy in Kuwait. Specific requirements and information for document legalisation, please refer to the website of Chinese Embassy in Kuwait. For documents issued by member countries of the Apostille Convention*, after getting Apostilles from the competent authorities, they can be used in Hong Kong SAR and Macao SAR of China directly. *Refer to the Convention of Abolishing the Requirement of Legalisation for Foreign Public Documents ❑ ❑ ❑

Invitation to Grand Mosque: The Visits Department is pleased to invite you to visit the Grand Mosque, which is one of Kuwait’s most treasured religious and cultural landmarks to discover the beauty of Islamic arts and architecture. Free guided tours are available all year round on official working days between (9-11 am) and (5-7 pm), within a special tour program designed to cater to the needs of different age groups. The program is as follows: Reception; Auditorium show; (according to age group); Touring the Mosque; Q & A; Art workshops; (according to age group – between 5 and 18 years old); Snack break; Distribution of the Grand Mosque publications and souvenirs; End of tour. According to these age groups: Age group: 5 to 9 years old: Morning: 60 visitors max; Evening: 20; 10 to 15 years: Morning: 100 visitors max; Evening: 45; 16 and above: Morning: 140 visitors max, Evening: 105: Tour language: Arabic- English- French; Arabic (English upon prior request); Arabic- English- French; Arabic (English upon prior request); Arabic- English- French: Arabic (English upon prior request) Rules and Regulations: ■ Please arrive in time for your visit. ■ All visitors are kindly required to abide by the mosque’s dress code. Male visitors should wear long pants. Shorts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Female visitors: should wear head cover and long loose clothing (available at the mosque). ■ Foods and drinks are not allowed inside the prayer halls. ■ For school visits, teachers are responsible for their students and are required to cooperate with the staff members of the Grand Mosque. ■ Photography is allowed inside the Grand Mosque (please note that disrespectful poses are strictly prohibited). If you would like to book a tour, please contact us: Tel: 22980813/ 22980815/ 22980812 Email: [email protected] Fax: 22473708 ❑ ❑ ❑ Chinese Embassy notice: Please be noted that effective starting today, the photo used in a Chinese visa application must meet the requirements (For details, please visit the website of Chinese embassy http://kw.chineseembassy.org/ eng/). Application with non-compliant photos will not be processed. Thank you for your attention and cooperation. ❑ ❑ ❑ IEI Kuwait Chapter membership: The Institution of Engineers (India), Kuwait chapter invites all its members to update their membership

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Photos of the Healthy Day at the English School Fahaheel

ESF promotes health and fitness

click Latest Continued from Page 22 information for the year 2016-17 and actively participate in the chapter activities. Indian engineers residing in Kuwait are welcome to join the pool of more than 700,000 engineers by becoming corporate or non-corporate members of The Institution of Engineers (India). IEI, Kuwait Chapter conducts many technical events for the benefit of its members.

The English School Fahaheel this week held a Healthy Day. Alternative Fitness classes were offered by participating organisations. Please watch for the upcoming events in your registered e-mail or announcement in the media. The chapter has science club activities for member’s children, and ladies wing activities for the member’s family. IEI, Kuwait chapter has facility to register student members for AMIE Examination for those interested in pursuing career enrichment. For more information and on chapter membership, kindly contact IEI, Kuwait chapter office on 22445588 extn. 314 between 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm

Health food was also on offer for all students. A big thank you goes out to the PE Department for organising this event to encourage fitness and healthy eating.

(Sunday through Thursday) or through email to [email protected]. You may also contact Engr Ashok Kumar (97275974) or Engr Karthikeyan (99840191) for any further clarification. ❑ ❑ ❑

Share your story with Amricani: Do you or any of your family members, acquaintances or friends happen to have a story with the American Missionary hospital in Kuwait (Mustashfa

Lemraicani) during the years from 1914-1967, the official period of offering medical services in Kuwait? Please share with us your story or your memory during those old days by writing the event and sending it to the following email address: [email protected] Notes: 1. Please send your story only to the above mentioned email. Story shared in Instagram, Facebook or Twitter will not be consid-

ered. 2. Please write your story or memory and sign it with your full name, and your contact number. 3. It will be great if you send us your personal photos or those of the place related to the story (optional). Your story will be part of a new book to be published by DAI. I am confident that your contributions will be an essential part of the history of Amricani. Share with us! March 25

DAI Experience Science: Scientists from Continued on Page 24

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Overheard in the Souk

the grapevine ● What’s happening Kuwait? Why always blame the expats? With the current traffic woes in the country, a lawyer recently filed a lawsuit at an administrative court demanding an immediate suspension of all driving licenses for all expats and suspension of the issuance of new licenses to expats to make it easier for citizens to drive along the road. There are around 3.1 million expats in Kuwait and 1.4 million Kuwaiti citizens but the million dollar question is who owns more cars? How many cars does each Kuwaiti household have? Blaming the ex-

pats for the traffic woes seems not fair or should we say traffic authorities need to do their job more? All the road expansion and bridge construction all over Kuwait resulted in some rerouting and of course traffic jams, then why blame the expats? The point game is in these days. Let’s wait and see what happens next to this one-ofa-kind lawsuit. ❑ ❑ ❑ ● You may have looked on incredulously and sometimes even in anger, as a bevy of pedestrians attempt to cross

motorways in Kuwait by speeding through speeding cars, in some cases rendering the pedestrian bridge nearby unwanted and obsolete. Human regard for safety will always come second to convenience and people will risk life and limb taking shortcuts. Every driver criss-crossing through lanes just to get ahead and save a few minutes of his commute is a casualty of this attitude. In our microwave society, time is money but life is cheap. ❑ ❑ ❑

● We all know that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) or public benefits societies play an important role socially, culturally and religiously in every society. These organizations can be local or international and they include human rights, transparency, relief aids, civil societies and humanitarian institutions. To this effect, it is believed these organizations deserve helping hand from the governments in order to pursue their duties effectively and successfully. They would want the governments to facilitate their work by officially registering them

and providing them places to open their offices. Sometimes governments are short of lands and they can no longer allocate them to all NGOs which will therefore be operating legally but without headquarters. To resolve this problem, a lawmaker here suggested that the state should construct a huge building to accommodate all NGOs in one place. The lawmaker believes that by having such a magnificent edifice, the government would save lands and NGOs would work legally and effectively at their headquarters instead of loitering around.

Tongues Way April 7

art AMSTERDAM, March 22, (AP): Two paintings by Vincent van Gogh that were stolen in a smash-and-grab heist more than 14 years ago went back on display Tuesday at the Amsterdam museum dedicated to the Dutch master. “They’re back!” said Van Gogh Museum director Axel Rueger, calling their return one of the “most special days in the history of our museum.” The paintings, the 1882 “View of the Sea at Scheveningen,” and 1884-85 work “Congregation leaving the Reformed Church in Nuenen,” were discovered last year by Italian police investigating suspected Italian mobsters for cocaine trafficking. It wasn’t an easy find. The two paintings were wrapped in cotton sheets, stuffed in a box and hidden behind a wall in a toilet, said Gen Gianluigi D’Alfonso of the Italian financial police, who was on hand at the museum for the ceremonial unveiling. The paintings were found in a farmhouse near Naples as Italian police seized 20 million euros ($21.6 million) worth of assets, including villas, apartments and even a small airplane. Investigators contend the assets are linked to two Camorra drug kingpins, Mario Cerrone and Raffaele Imperiale. “After years shrouded in darkness, they can now shine again,” said Jet Bussemaker, the Dutch minister for education, culture and science said as an orange screen slid away to reveal the two paintings behind a glass wall. One of the two men convicted of stealing the paintings told the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that said he originally wanted to steal Van Gogh’s world famous “Sunflowers” painting, but it was too well protected. Another well-known Van Gogh work, “The Potato Eaters,” was too big to get through the hole that Octave Durham and his accomplice smashed in the security glass to get into the museum after clambering over a fence and using a ladder to get onto its roof. Durham, who was sentenced to 3-1/2 years in prison after being convicted in 2004, told De Telegraaf that the paintings were sold to the mafia after a Dutch criminal who had agreed to buy them was murdered. The paintings are now back on display at the museum before being taken to its conservation studio for repair. Experts said they suffered remarkably little damage even as the thieves in 2002 ripped them out of their frames and fled. “It is not only a miracle that the works have been recovered but it’s even more miraculous almost that they are in relatively unharmed condition,” Rueger said. The museum director was on vacation when the call came last year from Italian authorities who believed they had recovered the paintings. He didn’t celebrate right away; he’d had calls like this before. “I was hopeful but also a little hesitant, because over the course of the years we had multiple occasions when people phoned us, contacted us, claiming that they knew something about the whereabouts of the works. And each time it was false, the trace went cold,” he said. “The way has been peppered with disappointment.” But museum experts dispatched to Italy to check the authenticity of the works quickly turned Rueger’s doubts into delight. “It was something we had secretly been hoping for, for all those years,” he said. The two small works are not typical of Van Gogh’s later and better-known works, but are still vital pieces for the museum’s collection, Rueger said. The Scheveningen seascape, with a fishing boat and rough sea under a typically gray,

cloudy Dutch sky, is one of Van Gogh’s earliest works. It is the only painting in the museum’s collection painted during his time in The Hague. It suffered a missing rectangular chip from the bottom left-hand corner. The painting of the church in Nuenen portrayed the village where his parents lived.

Kuwait Chapter of CIGI, acronym for Centre for Information and Guidance India, is all set to begin its flagship program CLP (Community Leadership Program) in Kuwait. An introductory session to CLP was conducted at Rajdhani Palace Hotel where in more than 100 members representing various socio-cultural and religious organizations of Kuwait participated. The 120 minutes presentation was delivered by CIGI Senior Resource Persons Sameer Mohammed and Engineer Afzal Ali. The session that briefed the scope and benefits of CLP included tips and exercises on leadership, creative thinking and non-verbal communication. The presenters detailed the CLP program, which is scheduled to begin on the 7th of April. A comprehensive course plan has been designed in which the total course will be divided into three sets namely Individual Development, Family Orientation and Sociological Development. The Individual Development set includes various sessions that focus on personality development, creativity & problem solving skills, effective leadership, essential life skills, career enhancement workshops, emotional intelligence, spiritual psychology, motivation and empowerment. The Family Orientation Set includes modules on interpersonal relationship, pre-marital counselling, child & geriatric counselling, family improvement program, student psychology and counselling, remote & applied parenting. Social Development set includes sessions on project management skills, team building, effective communication, public speaking and presentation skills, conflict resolution, social psychology and behavior modeling techniques. The course will span over 12 months with 3-hour sessions held on the first Friday of every month. Prominent speakers from India and other GCC chapters will be addressing the sessions. Various live scenarios, workshops and practical approaches will be among the methodologies used during the classes. The venue of the program will be announced later. Registration and other detailed information are available on 9904 2276 and 9725 8324. The session began with the Quran recitation by CIGI visionary Ashraf Mohammed followed by the welcome speech and introduction of speakers by Chief Coordinator Abdul Azeez. Vice President Faseehullah presided over the function. The Chairman of CIGI Kuwait Chapter - Dr Amir Ahmed inaugurated the session and Abdul Gafoor delivered the vote of thanks.

General KIFF anti-drugs campaign: As part of the

Also: NEW YORK: A painting that Sotheby’s hails as one of the most important pieces by Diego Rivera to go to auction in recent years will headline its Latin American art sale in May, the auction house said. “Portrait of Senorita Matilde Palou” (1951) depicts Matilde Palou, a Chilean actress and singer who gained fame in Mexican cinema. The oil on canvas was last seen in public in 1988, when Sotheby’s sold it for $203,000. On Wednesday, it will go on view in its galleries in Los Angeles as a prelude to the May 25 auction in New York. “I saw Diego Rivera’s splendid portrait of Senorita Matilde Palou for the first time about 30 years ago ... and again, just a few weeks ago. I was struck once again by her majestic beauty,” Axel Stein, Sotheby’s head of Latin American art, said in an email to The Associated Press. “The painting is a wonderful example of the artist at the height of his powers and a glorious symbol of Mexican national pride. It is undoubtedly one of the most important works by the artist to appear at auction in recent memory.” The estimate for the 80 x 48-1/8 inches (203 x 122.3 cm) oil on canvas is $2 million to $3 million. The auction record for Rivera is $3,082,500, set in 1995 with the painting “Baile en Tehuantepec” (1928) also at Sotheby’s. “Portrait of Senorita Matilde Palou” was commissioned to the artist in 1950 by Osceola Heard Davenport, a wealthy Rio Grande Valley widow of an oilman whose heirs sold it through the auction house almost three decades ago. In the painting, Palou is standing, reclining against what looks like a fireplace. She wears a resplendent dress covered in Mexi-

CIGI to conduct CLP in Kuwait: The

can imagery, including flags, a coat of arms and Mexican jewelry. ❑ ❑ ❑

LONDON: The next two artworks to be

Above: Van Gogh Museum director Axel Rueger (left), and Jet Bussemaker, Minister for Education, Culture and Science, stand next to the stolen and recovered ‘Seascape at Scheveningen’ by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh, during a press conference in Amsterdam, Netherlands on March 21. Left: This image provided by Sotheby’s shows the 1951 painting ‘Portrait of Senorita Matilde Palou’ by Diego Rivera is part of Sotheby’s Latin American art sale on May 25 in New York. (AP)

showcased on the Fourth Plinth in London’s famous Trafalgar Square have been selected. The art platform is currently home to a giant bronze thumb, but will be replaced in 2018 by a recreation of an ancient sculpture destroyed by the Islamic State group, it was announced Tuesday. US artist Michael Rakowitz will make the statue of Lamassu, an Assyrian protective deity in the form of a winged bull, from empty date syrup cans. In 2020, Lamassu will be replaced by a giant ice cream sundae, topped with a cherry and the more unusual additions of a drone and a fly.

Fraternity fest, Kuwait India Fraternity Forum (KIFF) is conducting Anti-Drugs Campaign among Indians living in Kuwait. According to the available statistics of Indian Embassy, 60% of the convicted Indians in Kuwaiti Jails are arrested on drug-related cases. The recent cases of death and captives of Indian drug abusers is a threatening news. To defend and to campaign against such social crisis by protecting individuals as well as the society has become obligatory. In this current situation, Kuwait India Fraternity Forum is conducting campaign by distributing handouts, conducting counseling, seminars etc. to educate the Indians living in Kuwait informed President Saifudheen Nalakath in a press release. For more details contact: 55062071 or email at [email protected]. ❑ ❑ ❑

NYF offers free yoga classes: NYF Kuwait offers free yoga, breathing, meditation and reiki classes by a well-experienced female yoga teacher for all age groups. Classes are given on the basis of different health problems, stress and other problems by different techniques. Contact: 99315825. ❑





Leadership Excellence Course: The Leadership Excellence Course (LEC) is a course modeled on the Seerah of Rasoolullah who is the best model of leadership for all mankind. The LEC focuses on the lessons that we can learn from the Seerah of Rasoolullah and see how we can apply them in our lives to become winners in this world and the next. The objectives of the course are 1. Understand what leadership is from the Seerah of Rasoolullah and how to apply it in our lives today 2. Understand the purpose of our lives and learn to live that purpose with confidence 3. Understand the importance of connecting to Allah and learn how to do it 4. Understand how to leverage your strengths and overcome weaknesses 5. Understand how to articulate your life goal and create a road map to achieve it. For more information please visit www.leckuwait.com or call 99514995 / 66363310. ❑ ❑ ❑ AWL registration: If you would like to join

click Latest Continued from Page 23 the Islamic world helped build the foundation of today’s science. In biology, astronomy, chemistry, physics, optics, and math, Muslim scholars like Ibn Haythem, Ibn Hayyan, AlFazari, and others, made significant contributions to their fields. Experience Science is a special programme led by “Dr B” (Dr Bahareh Azizi),

who’s planned some pretty cool experiments that include strawberry DNA, Oreo moon phases, and bending light! Designed for children ages 10-13, each Experience Science 90 minute session (3:30 - 5 pm), which will be held at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre, includes a look at the role of Muslim scientists in a specific field, what’s happening in that field today and a couple of hands-on experiments. Week One (April 15): Human Biology and DNA Week Two (April 22): Astronomy Week Three (April 29): Chemistry and Alchemy Week Four (May 6): Optics and Physics Week Six (May 13): Family Day at Amricani To register your 10-13-year-old for this programme, please visit the museum shop at either the Yarmouk or Amricani cultural

centres. Spaces are limited; to register, email: [email protected] March 31

FOCUS to conduct TIPS 2017: FOCUS International Kuwait has been conducting TIPS for the past four years with the support of a students’ organization based in Kerala. TIPS was established in 2010 with venues at a few nominated centers. To date TIPS is the only model entrance examination recognized with centralized valuation and centers within and outside the country. TIPS model entrance aims at providing hands on experience for students attending various competitive exams to professional courses. The test will follow the pattern of NEET/ JEEmedical-engineering entrance exams and shall be conducted in as many as 50 centers across Kerala, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Chen-

nai, Delhi and every gulf country. Hoping to arm the students with an experience that would help them to assess and prepare themselves, the examination is evaluated in a centralized manner. The test should foster self-confidence as well as decrease the fear of competitive exams in aspiring students. TIPS certify the experience of the real competitive examination. TIPS help the students with landfills to sort the examination and preparation in an easy process. To do so, TIPS publishes answer keys along with all possible methods of solutions, on the day of exam itself. Heeding to popular demand and appreciation from both parents as well aspiring students we have decided to conduct TIPS’2017 on March 31. We request you to share this news in your esteemed media. For more details contact 69007007, 65507714, 99139489. Website: www.tipsexam.org

the American Women’s League (AWL), please call 99039723 or 94067999 or email: [email protected]. All American women and wives of Americans are welcomed. ❑ ❑ ❑

Ugandans register with UIK: Are you a Ugandan living and working in Kuwait? Would you like to get in touch with other Ugandans in Kuwait both socially and professionally? Then please get in touch with us. We would like to invite you to register with the Ugandans in Kuwait (UIK) association, an informal organization of Ugandans living and working in Kuwait. The purpose of this exercise is to get together as Ugandans and to consider taking the first steps to establishing a more formal organisation. This association is voluntary. It is designed to create a forum for Ugandans in Kuwait to foster a sense of community, to communicate more effectively

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Exhibition depicts the ‘Painter of Maine’

Maine in Manhattan: Hartley landscapes at Met Breuer By Beth J. Harpaz

A

little bit of Maine has come to a Manhattan museum with the opening of “Marsden Hartley’s Maine”. And for travelers who want to see the places depicted in the paintings, there’s a companion itinerary for visiting Maine. The exhibition at The Met Breuer museum includes 90 paintings and sketches, including Hartley’s depictions of Mount Katahdin, the coast, the woods and other Maine landscapes. Visit Maine, the state’s tourism agency, has compiled itineraries for Hartley fans curious to see the places that inspired him. In addition to Katahdin, destinations include Penobscot Bay, Vinalhaven and Hurricane Island, Georgetown and Fox Island, the Schoodic Peninsula, Camden Hills as seen from Baker’s Island, Lovell and Kezar Lake, Robin Hood Cove and Madawaska. The itineraries come with suggestions for lodging and dining. Many of Hartley’s works incorporate

a bold Modernist style and dark palette, including autumn reds and winter scenes, distinguishing them from the light-filled, postcard-perfect summer seascapes that so often represent the state’s natural beauty. Ironically, Hartley himself was not a fan of tourism in his home state, writing of Maine’s nickname, “Vacationland,” that “the word shivers down the spine.” The show will be on display in New York through June 18 before a run at the Colby College Museum of Art in Waterville, July 8-Nov 12. Hartley, who declared himself “The Painter of Maine” in an essay, was born in Lewiston in 1877 and lost both his mother and stepmother while growing up. He spent extended periods of time away from his native state, studying at art schools in Ohio and New York, and later living in Paris, Berlin and elsewhere, keeping company with the intellectuals and artists of his era. A show at Alfred Steiglitz’s gallery in New York

launched his career. He spent the final years of his life in his home state. The Met Breuer show includes a few works by other artists who are seen as having influenced Hartley’s Modernist style, including Winslow Homer, known for his landscapes of the Maine coast, and the Japanese artist Hiroshige. The show also includes examples of what the museum calls Hartley’s “hypermasculine” portraits of lumberjacks, fishermen and other working men. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

This March 20, 2017 photo, shows visitors looking at paintings from the ‘Marsden Hartley’s Maine’ show at The Met Breuer Museum in New York. (AP)

If You Go: Marsden Hartley’s Maine: Through June 18 at The Met Breuer, 75th Street and Madison Avenue, Manhattan: http:// www.metmuseum.org/exhibitions/listings/2017/marsden-hartley . Maine itineraries: https://visitmainemediaroom.com/ sites/default/files/marsden-hartley-tripideas-v3.pdf and https://visitmaine.com/ things-to-do/arts-and-culture/the-art-ofmarsden-hartley/.

Travel click General Continued from Page 24 with each other and to encourage Ugandans out here to work together. We are also planning a celebration to mark 50 years of Ugandan’s Independence this year. If you have any questions regarding this association or if you are interested in registering, then please send us an email at [email protected]. We hope to hear from you soon. ❑ ❑ ❑

Indian Embassy SPDC notice: Attention of all Indian associations/Indian schools in Kuwait is once again drawn to Scholarship Programme for Diaspora Children (SPDC) which was introduced by Government of India in the academic year 2006-2007 with the objective to make higher education in India accessible to the children of overseas Indians and promote India as a centre for higher studies. Under the scheme, 100 PIO/NRI students were awarded scholarship of up to US$ 4,000 per annum for undergraduate courses in Engineering, Technology, Humanities, Liberal Arts, Commerce, Management, Journalism, Hotel Management, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and some other courses. The scheme is open to NRIs/PIOs from over 40 countries (including Kuwait) having substantial Indian Diaspora population. The Scheme was revamped and launched in July 2016. Under the revamped Scheme, number of scholarships has been enhanced from 100 to 150 with introduction of 50 scholarships for children of Indian workers employed in the Emigration Check Required (ECR) countries. The Scheme is now applicable to four categories of applicants: (i) Persons of Indian Origin (ii) Non-Resident Indians (iii) Children of Indian workers working in ECR countries (including Kuwait). (iv) Children of Indian workers in ECR countries - studying in India The institutions that are covered under this Scheme are: (i) NITs, IIITs, Schools of Planning and Architecture (ii) “A” Grade institutions accredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and recognised by University Grants Commission (UGC). (iii) Other institutions covered under Direct Admission of Students Abroad (DASA) scheme. Income criteria will be applicable to all four categories. Applicants will seek scholarships after they obtain admission in the approved list of educational institutions. Applications are required to be submitted online at SPDC portal - http://spdcindia.gov. in/login/index.php. Last date for submission of applications was extended till Oct 14, 2016. Nodal officer for SPDC is P. Bharadwaj, Deputy Secretary (OIA-II), Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi, Tel: 00-91-11-24197952, Email: [email protected] ❑ ❑ ❑

Scrabble sessions are back: Scrabble sessions are back for all to come, learn and play with us at Better Books, Salmiyah, Bldg 19, next to Badur Travel, opposite the Ministry of Private Education, on Friday afternoons from 2:30-5:30 pm. Inviting all kids aged 8 and above to join me and play competitively with me Rohaina. Classes are held every Saturday from 12-1.30 pm. Bknelled, Euphuize, Waqf, Zooeae are some of the lovely words and there are 200,000 more you can learn with us. But the fun part is playing this wonderful game competitively. So come and see us and call me @66634224, Rohaina Tanweer. ❑ ❑ ❑

Experience Science for Adults: Registration is now open for Experience Science for Adults. Why should kids have all the fun?! The five week programme will be held on Saturday from 10:00 am-11:30 am at the Yarmouk Cultural Centre. Registration is limited to 16. You may register at either the Amricani Cultural Centre, Sunday to Thursday 10:00-3:00 or the Yarmouk Cultural Centre, Sunday to Thursday 10:00-6:00. For more information, please email:[email protected] ❑ ❑ ❑ TIES Center events: TIES Center announces following events – Tajweed and Recitation: Learn and practice the art of reciting the Holy Quran (tajweed). The instructor will also answer questions related to the meaning of the Arabic words and verses. Every Sunday & Tuesday @ 10 – 11:30am; every Monday @ 5-6:30pm. The TIES Center is the social and educational hub for English Speaking expats in Kuwait. For more information, please call 25231015 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www. tiescenter.net.

Sports Chess Round Robin Challenge: Registrations are open for chess coaching and the Annual Round Robin Challenger Series. Send your name, Civil ID No., mobile number, age, rating to [email protected] with CCR in the e-mail

In this photo taken on March 9, 2017, chef Thomas Keller smiles during an interview in his new kitchen at the French Laundry restaurant in Yountville, California. (AP)

The moon rises over the French Laundry restaurant in Yountville, California. (AP)

Chef Thomas Keller puts the finishing touch to a caviar dish in the new kitchen at the French Laundry restaurant in Yountville, California. (AP)

Chef Thomas Keller (left), describes a dish to a server in the new kitchen at the French Laundry restaurant in Yountville, California. At right on the wall is a closed-circuit video screen displaying the kitchen of Keller’s sister restaurant Per Se in New York City. (AP)

State-of-the-art kitchen feels like a modern art gallery

Keller shows off sleek French Laundry remodel YOUNTVILLE, California, March 22, (AP): On a sunny morning in Napa Valley, America’s most celebrated chef is reflecting on his career, the culinary empire it spawned and why he just spent $10 million to upgrade his famed restaurant, the French Laundry. Thomas Keller describes himself as detailoriented, a perfectionist and passionate about fine food and design. All of this is apparent in the chef’s gleaming new workspace, a 2,000-square-foot state-of-the-art kitchen, which feels more like a sleek, modern art gallery than a cramped, hectic kitchen. At 61 years old, Keller entertains the thought of slowing down. Just not right now. He’s got a new restaurant project underway at New York City’s Hudson Yards. He flew to Hollywood last week for a segment on Jimmy Kimmel Live. And he is clearly mindful of his legacy, which is part of the inspiration for remodeling the revered restaurant he opened in 1994. Keller says he embarked on the French Laundry’s renovation to ensure it thrives for the next 20 years. Aside from the new kitchen, there’s a 16,000-bottle wine cellar, extensive solar paneling, a new office annex and 9,000 square feet of new landscape design. The renovation took more than two years and was not stress-free. “For weeks, I would wake up in the middle of the night and think, ‘Oh my God, I ruined the French Laundry,’” said Keller, who holds three coveted Michelin stars for the restaurant, and another three for its New York counterpart Per Se. The distinctions make Keller the only American chef, past or present, with two sets of three-star Michelin ratings. On a tour of the new kitchen and the French Laundry’s lush culinary garden, Keller is vocally enthusiastic about the upgrades. He is also gracious, and humble, when asked about his significance to the culinary world. “I don’t wake up in the morning and look in the mirror and go, ‘I’m looking at the greatest chef in America.’ It very seldom comes up for subject. No entry fee. ❑ ❑



Kwt-Brits football supporters: A new football supporters website for British expats living and working in Kuwait has been set up by an Everton supporter, Trevor Powell. The Kuwait Brits Football Supporters Association (KBFSA)

me personally,” he says. But when the issue is raised, he feels “an enormous amount of responsibility, that burden of responsibility on my shoulders to make sure that I’m trying to exemplify what that chef would be like.”

Measure As a measure of his ambition, Keller compares the French Laundry’s remodel to the renovation at one of the world’s great museums, the Louvre in Paris, citing how I.M. Pei’s 1989 addition of the glass pyramid added a modern statement to a historical site. The Louvre was “iconic. It was historic. Everybody knew it. And the French Laundry kind of represented that for me,” said Keller, who even presented his architect with two pictures of the Louvre — one pre-I.M. Pei and one after — to capture the essence of his vision. Keller teamed up with Snohetta, an architecture and design firm that spearheaded the recent three-year renovation of the San Francisco’s Museum of Modern Art. The restaurant stayed open during the construction, but the culinary staff relocated to a temporary kitchen built inside four shipping containers. Final touches on landscaping are wrapping up this summer.

“To actually stand in the new kitchen is the ultimate reward. It’s absolutely amazing,” says 36-year-old chef de cuisine David Breeden, who has worked for Keller at the French Laundry and Per Se for 12 years. Gone is the stainless steel austerity of most restaurant kitchens, this one is white, spacious and sunlit by skylights and wraparound windows overlooking a garden. It has swooping vaulted ceilings meant to mimic draped linen. Keller describes it as “more feminine than most kitchens” because of its soft lines and curves. It was designed with attention to ergonomics, acoustics and ease of cleaning, including all walls and counters made of an anti-microbial material. The countertops were raised several inches from the standard height to avoid backaches. There’s a “ventilated ceiling” that does away with the typical noisy overhead hoods. Now they’re embedded in the ceiling with infrared sensors that gauge the appropriate speed, rather than whirring at high all day long. The attention to detail is typical of Keller, says Breeden. “We call him the omnipresent chef,” said Breeden, who described Keller as a master craftsman who guides by example in his “search for that constant improvement,

constant refinement and reflection.” Perfectionism comes with a price. The 9-course prix fixe menu, which changes every night, costs $310. But a meal for two with wine and a vintage after-dinner cognac could easily top $1,000.

Booked The 62-seat restaurant is typically booked solid weeks in advance. Keller has not cooked full-time in years but is still very much the face of the French Laundry, which is inside an old stone cottage in the heart of California wine country. And when he’s in town, he’s at the restaurant, impeccably dressed in in his custom-made chef jacket, tailored black pants and shiny black clogs. During the flurry of a recent dinner service, Keller’s guiding hand was at work plating caviar, making artful, final touches on dishes, instructing waiters on the details of each course and even helping out in the dishwashing area. In the span of two decades, Keller has transformed the image of the American chef and the fine dining experience in America with his innovative, playful interpretations of fine French food, says Tim Ryan, president of the Culinary Institute of America. Ryan describes Keller as a “mixture of humility and ego.” Unlike today’s celebrity chefs, he had no reality TV shows but earned recognition through hard work in the kitchen, Ryan says, and to this day no one has matched his achievements or influence. “Thomas Keller is the most important chef in American history. Period. Ever,” said Ryan in a telephone interview from New York. “I’m sitting right now in a building filled with 2,000 aspiring chefs. There is no one in the world I could bring here that would generate more excitement among the student body than Thomas.” In the streets of Yountville, Keller is a local celebrity. Tourists stop him in the street to take selfies together, or pose outside the French Laundry sign. site aims to provide contact information for supporters of each others’ whereabouts and also in the future hopes to organise social events such as quizzes and even five-a-side matches on a home international teams basis. We need expats to register their support and hence we can then start to cast around for a suitable meeting venue. The site can be accessed at www.kbfsa.co.uk.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

26

Factory meets ISO 9000 quality management guidelines

New factory reiterates Hempel’s commitment to Kuwait, region By Ahmed Al-Naqeeb Arab-Times Staff KUWAIT CITY, March 22: The globally renowned coatings supplier Hempel, inaugurated their new factory at Mina Abdullah Wednesday afternoon. The factory which meets ISO 9000 quality management guidelines, is said to meet the growing demand for Hempel coatings and consolidate its position as market leader in the region. The event was attended by Ole Frijs-Madsen, the Danish Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, senior Hempel executives, shareholders and employees, media representatives and other concerned guests. During his speech and prior to the ribbon cutting ceremony, Khaled Al Rashed, Board Member of DPME, Hempel’s partner in Kuwait stated that they are proud that Hempel has grown to become the number one paint company in terms of production and distribution in Kuwait. Noting that this is a clear sign of customer trust in the quality of their products, which has now considered a

Photos from the event

benchmark for companies worldwide. Al-Rashed added that this ceremony does not only celebrate the inauguration of the new state-of-the art factory, but also a celebration of the enduring partnership that have lasted over 51 years.” From his side, Karsten Pedersen, Group Vice President of Hempel

Middle East (West), asserted that the new factory is a state-of-the-art facility that will produce coatings that are trusted across the region, providing long-term protection to industrial assets, large buildings, homes and infrastructure. “We are looking forward to maintaining the position of market leader in the region, while increasing

production and making our operations cleaner, faster and more energy efficient.” Furthermore, over the years, its coatings have been used to protect and decorate some of the country’s most iconic buildings, including the Kuwait Towers and the Kuwait Opera House, as well as numerous schools,

mosques, hospitals, shopping malls and other important civil structures. With a 40% increase in capacity from Hempel’s existing production facility in Safat, Kuwait, the new EUR 13 million factory in Mina Abdullah will help the company meet growing demand for its coatings in Kuwait and other countries in the Gulf Coopera-

tion Council (GCC) states. The new factory will be fully up and running by September 2017, and Hempel’s existing factory in Safat will close later in the year. Built to ISO 9000 quality management guidelines, Hempel’s Mina Abdullah factory is designed with sustainability in mind. It includes a solvent distillation unit that recycles solvents to reduce hazardous waste, as well as a water treatment plant that ensures much of the factory’s wastewater can be reused for vegetation and cleaning. The factory is also the first coatings production unit in Kuwait to include a regenerative thermal oxidiser unit, which removes volatile organic compounds during production to prevent atmospheric pollution. The new facility here in Kuwait is the latest edition to Hempel’s comprehensive global supply chain and in 2016 alone, the company completed a capacity expansion project in Malaysia and opened new factories in Russia and Vietnam, adding more than 28 million litres to its annual production capacity.

Photos from the event

Dedicated airport queues, Instagram competition

Kuwait Airways celebrates Mother’s Day Flavorful roast

Costa Kuwait launches ‘Old Paradise Street’

A photo from the event

Abdullah Khalaf seminar at KES Under the patronage of Chairman, Mohammed Jassim Al Saddah, the Arabic & Islamic Department at Kuwait English School hosted an Arabic language seminar lead by the well-known author, Abdullah Khalaf

on Saturday March 18. The event was attended by many guests, who were inspired by the seminar and impressed by the school’s support to the Arabic language.

A photo from the event

Local, int’l chefs take part

Ooredoo Kuwait participates in ‘Taste of Q8’ food festival KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Ooredoo, the fastest network in Kuwait, proudly sponsored Taste of Kuwait, the biggest food festival in Kuwait, which took place over the span of three days last week in Boulevard Mall in Salmiya. The sponsorship comes to reiterate Ooredoo’s commitment towards the community and is tandem with its core values of caring, connecting and challenging, which aim to enrich people’s lives. Through its designated tent for members of its Nojoom Reward Program, Ooredoo gave visitors the opportunity to meet and greet a number of renowned chefs locally and internationally, such as Adlah Al-Sharhan, Jenny Morris, Annabel Karmel, and Dean Brettschneider. Visitors were able to get autographed copies of books written by the chefs, and they were given the opportunity to ask them questions. As part of its efforts to fulfil the passions of its customers, Ooredoo extended an invitation to its Nukhba clients. The program included a variety of activities targeting different segments and age groups, such as live cooking

shows and lectures about culinary arts. The program also included activities and cooking demonstrations for children, in addition to special cooking shows for people suffering from diabetes and obesity. The festival saw hundreds of participating restaurants and cafes from local and international markets offering a variety of cuisines. Ooredoo stressed in a statement its commitment to participating in events that enrich customers’ lives and experiences from all segments of society, noting that the Kuwaiti restauranteur segment is growing and enjoys a good reputation in the region. Ooredoo’s Nojoom Rewards Program is Kuwait’s only program which gives customers points for every KD spent on using Ooredoo’s services. The points can then be redeemed with vouchers from any of Ooredoo’s partners, which include prominent retailers, hotels, airline companies, spas, restaurants and many more premium service providers. Ooredoo customers can easily sign up to Nojoom by sending a text message with the letter R to 129.

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Costa Coffee, part of Alghanim Industries Food and Beverage portfolio, launched the first in the series of Limited Edition Roasts, Old Paradise Street No. 19, a unique single origin coffee from Papua New Guinea carefully chosen because of its clean fruity taste combined with delicious caramel & nuts flavor. The Old Paradise Street is a series of blend developed by Costa Coffee for its range of Limited Edition Roasts that are available in limited quantities for customers looking to try something different. The launch of the Old Paradise No. 19 roast is available at Costa Coffee stores across Kuwait from March 19 and for a limited time. The single origin beans of the roast have been brought to Kuwait via Costa Coffee’s Roastery at Old Paradise Street, London from where the roast takes its name. Every bean is slow roasted under the meticulous eye of Costa’s Master Roaster, Gennaro Pelliccia, to ensure nothing less than perfection in every batch. Costa Kuwait is glad to be presenting coffee lovers with a new flavorful roast that will surely meet their tastes in whatever way they like to have their coffee. At Costa, we focus on providing quality and care in addition to exclusive tastes, ensuring our customers enjoy every moment of their coffee experience with us. Whether choosing the new roast in your favourite Costa Coffee drink to give it a different and unique taste, or intriguing your taste buds by swapping your usual coffee choice, be sure to savour its irresistible new flavour. Old Paradise Street roasts are only available for a limited time so don’t miss the opportunity to try it before it’s gone. Costa’s VIP and Loyal customers received a special package delivered right to their doorstep, containing a handmade perfume that captures the new roast distinct flavors. Costa is the UK’s favourite coffee shop, having been awarded “Best Branded Coffee Shop Chain in the UK and Ireland” by Allegra Strategies for seven years running since 2010.

A photo from the event

Celebrate mum with the perfect gifts Spoil your special lady this Mother’s Day with one of Cath Kidstons’s equally special gifts — there’s

something for every mum! Cath Kidstons which is operated under European Apparel Kuwait.

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Kuwait Airways rolled out the red-carpet treatment for all mothers travelling with the official national carrier of the State of Kuwait on Mother’s Day this year, with dedicated counter set aside at its checkin area, as well as an Instagram-based competition — named “Thank you, Mom!”, which invited people to post messages of thanks to their mothers. For mothers travelling on March 21 — Mother’s Day, as observed in the Arab world — Kuwait Airways set up a dedicated counter at its Kuwait International Airport check-in Zone-1. At these counters giveaways in the form of chocolates and discount vouchers for the on-board duty free were handed out as well having an area at the airport for children to write messages to their mothers along with a Polaroid picture to cherish and honour those most special of women in our lives. The Instagram-based “Thank you, Mom!” competition, running for the two days leading up to Mother’s Day, invited people to share their thoughts and praise for their mothers. The post with the highest number of “Likes”, per day, was entered as a finalist. On Mother’s day, the two posts were put to the vote by Kuwait Airways’ Instagram followers, with the winner deemed to be the one with the most “Likes”, by 4:00 pm local (Kuwaiti) time. The overall winner, with 66.2 percent of the votes was “@Arabaviation”. As the winner of the competition, Instagram follower “@Arabaviation” won two business class return tickets for one person and their mother to travel to Dubai, up to or before the end of May 2017. Commenting on the Instagram competition and activities conducted at Kuwait airport, on March 21, Rasha Al Roumi, Chairperson & CEO of Kuwait Airways, said: “This Mother’s Day, Kuwait Airways wanted to pay our own small tribute to the most influential women in everyone’s lives. As a working mom myself, I know that even the simplest form of recognition of what we do — and what our mothers before us have done and continue to do — goes a long way.” “Mothers are the bedrock of any family and Kuwait Airways is humbled in our celebration of the billions of mothers, worldwide, whose unconditional love and maternal wisdom undoubtedly makes the world a better place to live in,” Al Roumi added.

Burgan Bank offers ‘BuBa’ Kids free Smurfs screening

Costa Coffee Old Paradise Street No. 19 Limited Edition Roast

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Burgan Bank announced on Wednesday its latest exclusive offer with Grand Cinemas, to invite its ‘BuBa’ Kids customers to watch “Smurfs – The Lost Village” movie at Grand Cinemas — Al Hamra Luxury Centre, on March 30, 2017 for free at 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. Each BuBa customer will be entitled to two free tickets. To avail those tickets, customers need to visit the box office at Al Hamra Luxury Center. This offer comes as part of the bank’s wide and exclusive range of valuable privileges and benefits that are specially designated for its BuBa customers. Burgan Bank strives to offer its customer-base with best-in-class

services along with benefits that suits their needs, and today’s announcement is a clear indication of that. Customers are among the bank’s main priorities and by partnering with Grand Cinemas, Kuwait’s newest and

most luxurious movie theater; the bank continues to reinforce its position as a leading financial institution that meets its individual customer aspirations. This step forward marks a new era for Burgan Bank and Grand Cinemas conjoint customer service, which falls in the strategies of both firms to keep pioneering the entertainment industry and upgrading their clientele’s service to the highest of levels. To find out more about Burgan Bank’s “BuBa” Kids Account, customers are urged to visit any of Burgan Bank’s conveniently located branches, or call the bank’s call center on 1804080, or log on to Burgan Bank’s website at www.burgan.com.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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By Jacqueline Bigar Happy birthday for Thursday, March 23, 2017: This year a volatile happening might occur just when everything seems to be running smoothly. Because of the insight you have gained, you’ll give some thought to making a change in your lifestyle. If you are single, you could meet someone special. This person could be very exciting and always willing to cheer you on. If you are attached, the two of you often want to take off together! Defer to your partner more often, and refuse to be willful or demanding in your relationship. A LIBRA you encounter proves to be quite charming. The Stars Show the Kind of Day You’ll Have: 5-Dynamic; 4-Positive; 3-Average; 2-So-so; 1-Difficult

Capricorn - (Dec 22 - Jan 19) *** You might not be sure why you feel stressed, but perhaps you are sensing some

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unstable energy. You are most likely to be affected when you are out and about or at work. Events that are triggered right now have been gaining momentum for a while. Tonight: Take a deep breath.

Aquarius - (Jan

20 - Feb 18)

**** You’ll discover how much energy you have, and will decide what you want to do with it. Communication flourishes despite a subtle disruptive tone from a key person in your life. Listen, remain sensitive and try not to escalate an issue. Tonight: Whatever feels right to you.

Pisces - (Feb 19 - Mar 20) **** You might sense a change afoot with a partner or close loved one. Do not push the other party unless you feel as though you would like to see some radical changes. Refuse to initiate any conversations about these matters today. Just recognize what is going on. Tonight:

home decor

s

Chill out.

Aries - (Mar 21 - Apr 19) *** The pressure of having to be responsive could cause you and others to act in unexpected ways. Consider staying mum and/or vanishing; otherwise, expect to have to walk on eggshells and choose your words carefully. Someone might have an attitude. Tonight: Stay cool.

Taurus - (Apr 20 - May 20) *** You have the self-discipline to follow through on any decision you want to make. You might want to take the day off. Consider screening your calls and/or taking a drive in the country. Know that there is some confusion around your friends. Tonight: Be unavailable.

Gemini - (May 21 - June 20) **** You’ll observe how frustrated or upset

indoor gardening

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others seem to get today. You also might be triggered by a matter that is close to your heart. You are likely to internalize a comment that a friend or loved one has made, even if it has nothing to do with you. Tonight: Lighten up the moment.

Cancer - (June 21 - July 22) *** Your instinct to lie low and say little is right-on. There will always be another day to express your views. What goes on might shed a new light on your life and on your personal relationships. A parent or loved one could be affecting your domestic life. Tonight: Dinner for two.

Leo - (July 23 - Aug 22) ***** Your phone might be ringing off the hook. Emails and texts keep appearing, along with an occasional knock on the door. Clearly, others have a lot on their mind and want to talk.

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Be open, and don’t give any negative feedback. Tonight: Meet up with a close friend.

Scorpio - (Oct 23 - Nov 21)

Virgo - (Aug 23 - Sept 22):

*** Be sensitive to someone you care a lot about. This person might be a source of upset for you right now, but try not to internalize any of his or her comments. Observe rather than react. Take your time choosing the right response, and it will be more powerful. Tonight: Early to bed.

**** Be aware of your frustrations, disappointments and suppressed anger. You often say very little, and others perceive you to be unusually difficult. This trait could be emphasized today, so you’ll want to maintain some distance. Keep your receipts. Tonight: Try to use some discipline.

Libra - (Sept 23 - Oct 22) **** You aren’t typically one to be overly emotional or difficult, but at this point, others seem to view you as being a bit off the wall. You might not even be aware of what is ailing you, but you recognize that something is off. Tonight: Go to the gym before returning calls.

beauty tips

Sagittarius - (Nov 22 - Dec 21) **** You could be taken aback by what happens with a friend and/or a long-term wish. You might hope for certain events to occur, but understand that you can’t foresee what is heading down the path. Just know that everything will work out. Tonight: Where the crowds are.







Born today: Painter Juan Gris (1887), psychologist Erich Fromm (1900), actress Joan Crawford (1905)

taste buds

bulletin board

oncidium orchid

crow’s feet remedies

easy fruit salad recipe

Make this cute fabric-covered bulletin board to match your home’s decor. Cut a piece of plywood the same size as a window insert. Cover the plywood with cork and batting. Wrap fabric around to the back of the plywood and secure the edges with a staple gun. Paint the window insert, and nail to the plywood when dry, and add buttons at the intersections.

There are hundreds of types of fragrant orchids. While the corsage types are among the showiest, oncidiums are among the easiest. They offer a range of bloom colors and sizes, as well as bloom times. What it needs: Pick a medium to bright spot that offers high humidity and protection from drafts. Water and fertilize this orchid regularly during the spring and summer; keep it drier and cooler in autumn and winter. Test garden tip: The fragrance varies as much as color and size. Sharry Baby ‘Sweet Fragrance’, for example, has a distinct chocolate scent; Twinkle ‘Fragrance Fantasy’, on the other hand, smells more herbal.

As a person ages the skin becomes thinner and dryer especially around the eyes and one can find wrinkles around the eyes - these are also called crow’s feet. There are some natural remedies which are popular: ■ Use any of these oils, like olive, jojoba or almond oil, gently massage the area - using outward strokes with the fingertips. ■ Citrus is good for skin care, mix 1 tsp of lemon juice with 1 tsp of glycerin, apply and leave for overnight. ■ A vitamin E capsule can be cut open and applied, one for each eye. ■ Egg white can be applied as a face mask as it will tighten the skin. Once it dries wash off with warm water.

Ingredients: 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, 2 apples cut into 1-inch pieces, 1 red Anjou pear, cut into 1-inch pieces, 1/2 cup green seedless grapes, halved, 1/2 cup red or black seedless grapes, halved, 1/4 cup dried cherries, 1/4 cup dried cranberries, 6 tbsp plain yogurt, optional Preparation: In a bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice and cinnamon until well combined. Gently toss apples, pear and grapes with dressing, then toss in dried fruit. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Spoon into bowls, and serve with a dollop of yogurt and sprinkle with additional cinnamon, if desired.

Dear Abby

what’s on today

Friend with benefits turns out to be a disappointment

Site for checking travel ban www.kuwaitcourts.gov.kw/mojweb/NGeneral/Main.jsp

emergency number 112

Civil ID info: 1889988

By Abigail Van Buren Dear Abby: I have known this guy “Noah” for six years. We’re mostly just friends with benefits, but I’ve always had deeper feelings for him. I always wanted to see where things could go between us, so I mentioned it to him. He told me that if he didn’t already have a girlfriend, he would have dated me. So when they broke up, I waited patiently. I continued being a good friend to Noah, giving him advice and putting my own feelings off to the side. Then just when I felt us getting to another level in our relationship, he told me he had another girlfriend and we needed to stop. I would never sleep with a guy who is with someone else. I’m not that type of girl. What should I do? I’m confused and hurt at the same time. Should I Abigail Van Buren bring up my feelings again? Just let him go? Or should I keep him in my life, but in a friend-only way? — Jumbled emotions Dear jumbled: I don’t blame you for feeling confused. When someone’s words and actions don’t match, something is wrong. If Noah had been honest, you would have had your chance with him. I vote for letting him go because you want more than he’s apparently able to give. If you do, it may hurt for a while, but it will make it easier for you to find someone who can love you back. ❑ ❑ ❑ Dear Abby: We recently lost one of our cherished pets, our oldest cat, Mandy. We never had children, so our pets are our children. I get that people who have never had pets don’t understand the joy and unconditional love they can bring. But I don’t understand why people we thought were close to us haven’t acknowledged our loss in any way. Some of them have — or had — pets at one time. A few did send cards or emails, and they were so appreciated. Their kindness will never be forgotten. Mandy wasn’t sickly. She just stopped eating one day. When we took her to the vet a few days after trying everything we could think of, the diagnosis was kidney cancer. A couple of days later we had to make the heartbreaking decision to put her to sleep. My question is, am I expecting too much of people? After all, you wouldn’t ignore the death of a human child. I’m not only disappointed but resentful that these socalled friends and family don’t seem to care. I suppose to some Mandy was “just a cat.” But to us, she was our beloved furry child and we are devastated. Please inform people that a kind word or short note would mean the world to people like us who are suffering real grief. — Deeply grieving in Illinois Dear deeply grieving: Please let me offer my condolences for the loss of Mandy. I know from personal experience what you are going through, and it is very painful. That’s why I’m reminding readers that when they hear of someone losing a beloved pet, the kindest thing one can do is to offer sympathy with a phone call, an email or a card. Believe me, the effort WILL be appreciated and never forgotten. ❑ ❑ ❑ Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069. (Source: Universal Uclick)

complete the famous quartet of artistes who will perform on the day. The program is scheduled for Friday, March 24 at Sabahiya. It will be an exclusive event for the benefit of the KEF family and the let-your-hair-down musical extravaganza will bring down curtains on the grand year of celebration and festivity. For details contact: 66567992, 69303555, 66246413, 99894278, 98055199, 94004375, 97316919, 60446601, 97856006, 97728993. ❑ ❑ ❑

THURSDAY ■ TIES Center class: TIES Center will hold another session of our series about some prophets and messengers of Allah (SWT) on Thursday, March 23, at 7: 00 pm. In the context of some historical accounts about Adam and Eve (AS), we will discuss our relationship with serpents according to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). We will also answer many questions including the following: What can we do to repel the Devil? Why did Allah (SWT) repeat His command to Adam, Eve, Satan and, according to some sources, a serpent to descend to earth, and what do we learn from that? Why is Friday a special day for Muslims? We will also discuss how Adam and Eve obtained their food and clothes on earth and what type they were. Finally, we will clear some doubts regarding the story of Adam and Eve. The TIES Center is the social and educational hub for English Speaking Muslims in Kuwait. For more information, please call 25231015 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.tiescenter.net. ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ TIES Center classes: TIES Center is conducting a series of classes about some of the Prophets and Messengers of God who strove very hard to spread monotheism and teach their respective peoples how to worship God. Their message was not only spiritual; they also taught people how to conduct their daily lives and develop the living conditions on earth. In this series, we will focus on the following prophets: Adam, Nouh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Ayoub (Job), Yousuf (Joseph), Mousa (Moses), and Eisa (Jesus) - may peace, mercy and blessings of Allah (to Whom all might and majesty is ascribed) be upon them all. We will not only focus on historical facts, but will also deduce some important lessons whose application in our daily interactions and chores determine our success and salvation. Join us every Thursday at 7 pm to learn about the life and times of those messengers of firm resolve. The TIES Center is the social and educational hub for English Speaking Muslims in Kuwait. For more information, please call 25231015 or e-mail [email protected] or visit www.tiescenter.net. ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ Affordable art exhibition: Dar Al Funoon will showcase Affordable Art Exhibition starting on Monday, March 20, 2017 at 7 pm. The exhibition continues through Sunday, March 26, 2017. It is spring time, and it is time to allow the young artists to flourish and build their future in the art market. Dar Al Funoon is happy to announce the upcoming exhibition of affordable art. As always, we have selected a variety of works which feature a range of diverse works by young and established artists. We hope

YMCA Kuwait bid a farewell to Koshy Alexander, who is leaving Kuwait for good. He was in Kuwait for the past twenty-seven years and has been very active in the YMCA activities. He hails from Trivandrum, Kerala. The meeting was held in Salmiya, presided by Dr A.T. Varghese (President). Parimanam Manoj (General Secretary) welcomed all. A memento was presented for his valuable service to the YMCA during his tenure.

Dr A.T. Varghese, Agesh Skariah Thomas, Biji Samuel, Mathew Eapen, Saji Varghese Palakkunnel, Raju Kurukavelil, Johnkutty Oommen, Sunu Oommen and Parimanam Manoj made felicitation speeches during the meeting. In the reply speech, he expressed the valuable support received from YMCA Kuwait and members. Vote of thanks was given by Agesh Skariah and the function ended with a grand dinner.

you will be able to discover the aspiring artists and enjoy the exhibition.

■ KEA celebrates 20th ’versary: Keralite Engineers’ Association (KEA) marks the end of a year-long 20th anniversary celebration with a grand cultural evening Swararagm 2017, on Friday March 24 at Sabahiya with a plethora of music maestros from the Malayalam film firmament including Vijay Yesudas of the Malare fame from the movie Premam. Vijay Yesudas is popular for songs sung under composer Yuvan Shankar

Raja. He has collaborated with various other composers such as Dakshinamoorthy Swami, Ilaiyaraja, A.R. Rahman, Raveendran, Hamsalekha, Deva, Ouseppachan, Vidyasagar, Mani Sharma, Keeravani, and Mohan Sitara along with the new generation composers such as Karthik Raja, M. Jayachandran, Sabesh Murali, Harris Jayaraj, G.V.Prakash, D. Imman, Srikanth Deva, and Deepak Dev. He has sung 178 Malayalam songs and 118 Tamil songs. Accompanying Vijay will be Remya Nambeesan, who is a multi-facted personality with acting and singing being her forte. Remeez Muhammed and Teenu Tellence of the young brigade

Not a long journey … your marriage is an adventure. Not a love story … your marriage is an epic tale of romance. We wish you more sweet memories and a lifetime of love and endless bliss. Happy 4th wedding anniversary Bong Castillo and Aeriane Castillo. Greetings and love from your family and friends.

Happy birthday wishes to Sakina F. Raja who celebrates her 7th birthday today. Greetings from Dad Burhan F. Raja, Mom Fatima F. Raja, grandpapa Shabbir Hussain F. Raja, grandmama Fatima F. Raja, brothers Hatim & Mohammed, sisters Zenab, Nafisa and Tasneem

FRIDAY

■ SACAA family picnic: SACAA (St. Aloysius College Alumini Association) Kuwait will hold their first event “Fun in the Sun” a family picnic on Friday, March 24, 2017 at the Mishref Garden, Kuwait. The purpose is to bring together as many alumni as possible who studied under the Aloysians banner in Mangalore. The entire day will be full of games, snacks, lunch, etc. Please confirm your presence by March 17, 2017. Join us on the whats app group (66181041). Keep looking out for communication on the SACAA Kuwait Facebook page as well as your email for upcoming events. The SACAA Executive committee wishes to also announce conducting a Treasure Hunt in the upcoming months. Details will be circulated very soon. ❑ ❑ ❑ ■ IMA family desert picnic: Indian Muslim Association is organizing a ‘Family Picnic 2017’ on Friday, March 24, from 07:00 am to 05:00 pm in a desert camp at the outskirts of Kuwait City under the theme ‘Enter into Islam Completely (02:208). As usual it provides a unique opportunity for the entire family to rejoice in a fun filled interludes and educational discourses. Activities include variety of sports for children and elders alike, cultural event, skit, literary session (Mushaira) and prize distribution ceremony at the end. All basic amenities shall be provided for a comfortable stay for elders & children. Ladies are provided with separate adjacent tent to have enough privacy and segregated activities like Sports, Mehendi, Calligraphy, 1 minute games etc. For convenience bookstall and emergency medical services are made available during the occasion. Picnic spot is located at 85.5 Milestone on Road No. 30 or 40 towards Nuwaiseb. Free Bus Services are arranged to reach the location from Kuwait City, Salmiyah, Jaleeb al-Shoyukh/ Abbasiya, Khaitan and Mangaf / Fahaheel. All are cordially invited to attend this joyous occasion. For entry passes and for further details please contact below numbers: Kuwait City — 99117842; Khaitan — 60069583; Abu Halifa — 66971934; Fahaheel — 66891841; Salmiya — 99426664; Abbasiya — 97223941; Youth Wing — 97124000; Ladies Wing — 90020221 (Sisters Only).

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

28

Couch slouch ‘You got swamped’

‘Fox & Friends’ morning show of choice for Trump NEW YORK, March 22, (Agencies): “Fox & Friends” has emerged as the morning television show of choice for President Donald Trump and his fans, although that may have backfired for Fox News Channel this week. Like many cable news shows in the Trump era, “Fox & Friends” has seen ratings jump, and not just in the White House. Its average February audience of 1.72 million viewers was 49 percent over last year’s, the Nielsen company said. The show usually has more viewers than MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” and CNN’s “New Day” combined. President Trump’s Twitter feed provides ample evidence of his devotion, too. Like “Morning Joe,” the political talk show whose love-hate relationship with Trump is clearly set on hate right now, “Fox & Friends” makes no secret of its opinions. Yet the episode with Fox senior judicial analyst Andrew Napolitano illustrated how news and opinion aren’t always a smooth mix. Napolitano used “Fox & Friends” as a venue for his discredited report that British authorities helped former president Barack Obama spy on Trump. The White House cited the report to buttress its view that Trump’s predecessor was surreptitiously watching him, but after Britain dismissed it as “nonsense” and Fox said it could provide no evidence to back it up, Napolitano has been taken off the air indefinitely.

Frequent “Fox & Friends” was a frequent punching bag for Jon Stewart on “The Daily Show” and one media critic, Erik Wemple of The Washington Post, called it “easily the worst in all of televised news” following the Napolitano episode. Watching it, though, the show appears to capture a sense of discontent and patriotism that appeals to many Trump voters, certainly in a way that mainstream journalists, to a large degree, have been unable to grasp. Robert Thompson, director of the Bleier Center for Television and Popular Culture at Syracuse University, said he suspects many people “enjoy watching it for the thrill of outrage.” One day last week, the show had segments on “PC police” who were doing away with the designation of homecoming king and queen at a college, a man whose fiance was killed by a drunk driver who was an illegal immigrant, a congressman who received bureaucratic resistance when he tried to hang a portrait of Trump in a veterans’ hospital, and “chaos” on college campuses when conservatives are invited to speak. Alex French, a 32-year-old working in sales in Charlotte, North Carolina, said he appreciated the show’s reporting on veterans and appreciates its interest in news away from the nation’s coasts. “They do a good job of trying to reach out

to people in the small towns,” he said. Trump, who has declared ABC, CBS, CNN and NBC “the enemy of the American people,” told the three “Fox & Friends” hosts that “you have treated me very fairly” during an interview on Feb. 28. He did a weekly call-in to the show when he was campaigning for president. “Maybe without those call-ins, someone else is sitting here,” he said. Since he’s been president, 12 of Trump’s tweets reference something that appeared on “Fox & Friends” moments earlier — far more than any other program, according to a compilation by CNN’s “Reliable Sources.” After “Fox & Friends” had a segment with Nick Adams, author of “Green Card Warrior” on March 3, Trump tweeted within 25 minutes that the book was a “must read.” On Feb. 25, Herman Cain cited statistics comparing changes in the national debt in the first months of Trump and Obama’s presidencies; within a half hour, Trump tweeted that “the media has not reported” the same statistics. Fox’s Brian Kilmeade said that Russia “ran right over” Obama for eight years on March 7, and 10 minutes later Obama tweeted the same thing.

A file photo of the event

BAS & BAIA courses start from March 25

Also: LOS ANGELES: Arnold Schwarzenegger is turning the table on Donald Trump by taking to social media to criticize the president’s own approval ratings. Schwarzenegger posted a video on Twitter referencing a new Gallup poll that showed Trump’s approval rating at 39 percent, down 6 points from a week earlier. Schwarzenegger tells Trump, “The ratings are in and you got swamped.” The action star and former California governor replaced Trump as the host of “Celebrity Apprentice,” and Trump repeatedly mocked him for poor television ratings. Schwarzenegger recently said he wouldn’t return to the show. Schwarzenegger also criticized Trump’s proposed budget cuts, including to after-school programs. ❑ ❑ ❑ LOS ANGELES: Broadway might just have another smash-hit political musical headed its way: “Donald: The Musical”... or maybe not. However, at least James Corden is willing to give it a chance! “The Late Late Show” host took to the stage with a trio of musical stars to perform a parody of the song “When I Grow Up” from “Matilda the Musical,” only this time, President Trump, Steve Bannon, Sean Spicer, and Kellyanne Conway were the ones swaying on the swingset, dreaming of the political chaos they might cause when they grow up. The political figures take it in turns to declare their intentions, reflecting their current, more controversial policies.

The British Academies BAS (British Academy of Sport) and BAIA (British Academy of International Arts) are renowned in Kuwait with more than 3,000 children a year physically and mentally active from playing sports, learning music, performing ballet and theatre. BAS & BAIA will start their Spring Courses which will run for 10 weeks from March until June at the BSK Campus in Salwa. At BAS & BAIA there is something for everyone and with a unique market being the only Academies which offer courses in 20 sports and arts activities including swim-

ming, basketball, roller skating, tennis, football, kick boxing, gymnastics, karate, zumba, table tennis, drama, ballet, music, speech, theatre, modern dance, contemporary, tap dance and jazz. All courses are open to boys and girls from all schools in Kuwait ranging in age from 3 to 15 and students can choose to register for once or twice a week. BAIA will hold their annual British examinations in ballet, theatre and music and their showcase events will be a gala concert of music and BUGSY the musical with tickets available from now at the registra-

tion office. At the end of these courses BAS & BAIA will organize two very popular summer camps. The first of these is a swimming camp which will run for five weeks and will start from June 11 and the second is an arts and sports camp which will start from July 2, and will run for 3 weeks. Places for both camps are filling fast. For more details about BAS activities please check the Facebook page thebas. co or call 99458013. For more details about BAIA activities please check the Facebook page thebaia or call 509 62809

TVs losing their appeal among young generations

Young US viewers devour over 6 episodes per sitting LOS ANGELES, March 22, (Agencies): Devouring multiple TV episodes in one sitting has increasingly become the way many Americans — especially teens and young adults — experience television. About 73% of US consumers say they have binge-watched video content, defined as watching three or more episodes of a show in one session, according to Deloitte’s annual “Digital Democracy Survey.” That’s up from 68% who said they engaged in marathon TVwatching two years ago. And binge-watching TV is more popular among youngsters. About 90% of millennials (20-33) and 87% of Gen Z (ages 14-19) have

binge-watched video content. On a weekly basis, almost 40% of those demographic cohorts binge-watch TV, compared with 29% overall — reporting an average of six episodes, or about five hours of content, in a single sitting, Deloitte found. As far as viewing devices, TVs are losing their appeal among younger generations. Gen Z and millennials spend about half their time watching TV shows and movies on devices other than a television set, according to Deloitte survey. Meanwhile, Gen X-ers (aged 34-50) favor TVs by over 60% and Baby Boomers (51-69) watch over 80% of programming on TVs. When it comes to media consumption, “the

consumer rules,” said Kevin Westcott, head of Deloitte’s US media and entertainment practice. “The shift to streaming, mobile, on-demand services and personalization are significant opportunities in 2017.” About 49% of US consumers subscribe to at least one paid streaming video service (and nearly 60% of those 50 and under do so). Pay-TV subscriptions have held steady: 74% of consumers across US households say they subscribe to cable, satellite or telco TV. Bundling is a key reason: Two-thirds of pay-TV consumers said they keep their TV subscriptions because it is bundled with their internet service.

tv highlights Cinema Cinema programme from Thursday 23/03/2017 to Wednesday 29/03/2017

Akher Deek Fe Masr (Arabic Film) Sharqia 1 Muhalab 2 Fanar 3 Marina 3 Avenues 5 Avenues 9 360° 2 360° 8 360° 10 Al-Kout 2 Bairaq 3 Laila

13:15 (No Fri) 19:15, 21:45, 00:05 12:30 (No Fri) 17:00, 19:15, 00:30 11:45 (No Fri) 17:45, 20:15, 22:30, 00:45 13:00 (No Fri) 15:15, 17:30, 22:00 12:15 (No Fri) 14:30, 19:15, 21:30, 23:45 13:15 (No Fri) 15:30, 17:45, 20:00, 22:15, 00:30 13:30, 15:45, 18:00, 20:15, 22:30, 00:45 12:15 (No Fri) 14:30, 16:45, 19:00, 21:15, 23:30 11:30 (No Fri) 13:45, 16:00, 20:45, 23:00 12:15 (No Fri) 14:30, 18:45, 21:00, 23:30 13:00 (No Fri) 15:30, 17:45, 20:00 20:30

Barbie Video Game Hero Sharqia 1 Muhalab 3 Fanar 2 Fanar 3 Marina 1 Avenues 7 360° 2 360° 4 Al-Kout 4 Bairaq 1 Bairaq 3

13:30 (Fri) 15:30, 17:15 16:00 (No Fri) 17:45 13:45 (Fri) 14:15, 16:00 13:30 (Fri) 15:15 (Fri, Sat) 17:00 11:45 (No Fri) 13:45, 15:45, 17:30, 19:15 11:45 (No Fri) 12:45 (No Fri) 14:30, 16:15, 18:15 13:30 (Fri) 15:00, 16:45 14:30, 16:15 13:30 (Fri)

Collide Sharqia 2

Muhalab 3 Fanar 4

Marina 2 Avenues 4

11:30 (No Fri) 18:00, 20:00 22:00, 00:05 (No Thu, Fri, Mon) 01:00 (Thu, Fri, Mon) 11:45, 14:00 (No Fri) 19:30, 00:30 21:30 (No Thu, Fri, Mon) 11:30 (No Fri) 13:30, 15:45, 20:00 22:00, 00:15 (No Thu, Mon) 01:00 (Thu, Mon) 11:45 (No Fri) 13:45, 18:15, 22:45, 00:45 11:30 (No Fri) 16:00 (No Sat) 20:30, 01:00

Avenues 6

Avenues 11 360° 9 360° 10 360° 12 360° 14

Al-Kout 1 Bairaq 3 Laila

12:15, 14:15 (No Fri) 16:15, 18:15, 20:15 22:15, 00:15 (No Thu) 01:15 (Thu) 11:30 (No Fri) 12:45 (No Fri) 17:45 01:15 13:15 (No Fri) 15:15, 17:15, 19:15, 21:15, 23:15, 01:15 12:15 (Sat) 14:15 (Fri, Sat) 16:15, 18:15, 20:15, 22:15, 00:15 20:00 22:00, 00:05 (No Thu) 01:00 (Thu) 22:15, 00:15 22:45

Life Sharqia 2 Sharqia 3 Muhalab 2 Fanar 1 Fanar 4 Fanar 5 Marina 3 Avenues 4 Avenues 10 360° 5 360° 9 360° 11 360° 13 Bairaq 2 Laila

13:30, 15:45 (No Fri) 22:15, 00:30 (No Thu) 14:45 21:45 (No Thu) 21:30 17:45 12:15 (No Fri) 14:30, 16:45 19:45, 00:15 13:30, 22:30 12:45 (No Fri) 15:00, 17:15, 19:30, 21:45, 00:05 15:30, 23:30 19:45, 00:45 11:30 (No Fri) 13:45, 16:00, 18:15, 20:30, 22:45, 01:00 12:30 (No Fri) 14:45, 17:00, 19:30, 21:45, 00:05 11:45 (No Fri) 16:30, 21:30, 00:05 18:15

Katamarayudu (Telugu Film) Sharqia 2 Sharqia 3 Muhalab 1 Muhalab 2 Muhalab 3 Fanar 2 Fanar 4 Avenues 3 Avenues 6

14:00 (Fri) 22:00 (Thu, Fri, Mon) 16:15 (Fri) 19:15 (Fri, Sat, Mon) 22:15 (Thu) 16:00 (Fri, Mon) 19:00 (No Thu) 22:00 (No Sun, Tue, Wed) 21:45 (Thu) 13:45 (Fri) 21:45 (Thu, Fri, Mon) 15:45 (Fri) 21:45 (Thu, Fri) 22:00 (Thu, Mon) 16:00 (Fri, Mon) 19:00 (No Thu) 22:00 (No Sun, Tue, Wed) 13:30 (Fri)

22:15 (Thu) 22:00 (Thu) 13:30 (Fri) 16:30 (Fri, Mon) 21:45 (Thu, Fri, Mon) 15:30 (Fri, Mon) 18:30, 21:30 (No Thu) 21:45 (Thu) 21:45 (Thu) 15:30, 18:30, 21:30 (No Thu) 22:15 (Thu) 15:45 (Fri) 18:45 (Fri, Mon) 21:45 (Thu, Fri) 16:00, 19:00 (Fri, Sat, Mon) 22:00 (Thu, Fri, Sat, Mon)

Al-Kout 1 Al-Kout 3

Plaza

Ajial 1

Ajial 2 Ajial 3

Ajial 4

Sleepless Sharqia 3

11:45 (No Fri) 01:15 (Thu) 11:30 (No Fri) 01:00 11:30 (No Fri) 13:30, 20:45, 22:45, 00:45 11:45 (No Fri) 13:45, 15:45, 17:45, 19:45, 21:45, 23:45 16:45

Muhalab 1 Avenues 8 360° 6

Al-Kout 2

Power Rangers Sharqia 3

13:45 16:15 (No Fri) 19:15 (No Fri, Sat, Mon)

Muhalab 1

Fanar 1 Marina 1

Avenues 2 Avenues 4 Avenues 11 360° 1

360° 5 360° 9 360° 15 Al-Kout 1 Al-Kout 3 Bairaq 1 Laila Ajial 4

13:30 19:00 (Thu) 22:00 (Sun, Tue, Wed) 11:30 (No Fri) 14:00, 16:30, 19:00, 23:45 12:00 (No Fri) 14:30 (No Fri, Sat) 18:45, 21:15, 23:45 12:00 (No Fri) 17:00, 19:30, 00:30 18:00 13:30, 16:00, 18:30, 21:00, 23:30 12:00 (No Fri) 14:30, 17:00, 22:00, 00:30 19:30 (No Sat) 13:00 (No Fri) 21:00 15:15, 22:15 11:30 (No Fri) 16:30, 21:30, 00:05 12:30 (No Fri) 15:00, 17:30 11:30, 14:00 (No Fri) 19:15, 00:45 12:00 (No Fri) 18:00, 20:30, 23:30 15:45 16:00 (No Fri, Sat, Mon) 22:00 (Sun, Tue, Wed)

Kong: Skull Island Muhalab 1 Fanar 2

16:00 (No Fri, Mon) 13:15, 15:45 (No Fri)

How to find us 1. 360°

Zahra’a Area, South Surra, 6th Ring Road, corner of King Faisal Highway 2. Ajial Ajial Complex, Fahaheel 3. Al Bairaq Between Jaber Al Ali East & Al Agalia West 4. Al Fanar Al Fanar Complex, Salem Al Mubarak Street, near Sultan Center, Salmiya 5. Al Kout Al-Kout Complex, at the end of the Coastal Road, Fahaheel 6. Al Muhalab Al Muhalab Complex, Behind Hawally Clinic, Hawally 7. Al Sharqiya Arabian Gulf Street, Souq Sharq, near the Amiri Hospital 8. Laila Gallery Salem Al Mubarak Street, near Sultan Center, Salmiya 9. Marina Marina Mall, Between Salem Al Mubarak Street & Arabian Gulf Street, Salmiya 10. Metro Metro Complex, Farwaniya, near Crowne Plaza Hotel & Farwaniya Garden 11. Plaza Salem Al Mubarak Street, near Sultan Center, Salmiya 12. The Avenues The Avenues Mall, Al Reggai near Al Rai, 5th Ring Road & Ghazali Road Intersection NB: Friday no show before 1:30 pm Regular show KD3:000; 3D-Digital — KD3.500; VIP show — KD6.000. ‘On Monday, price is KD1.500 except Digital movies.

Cinescape cinema movies inquiries and Fax Back hotline 1803456

13. The Scientific Center – IMAX Opp Holiday Inn, Salmiya, Gulf Road 14. Grand Al-Hamra Grand Al-Hamra, tel: 22270333, www.grand cinemas.com 15. Grand Gate Grand Gate, tel: 22056464, www.grandcinemas.com

18:45, 00:45 Marina 2 Avenues 2 Avenues 3

Avenues 5 Avenues 8 360° 7

360° 10 360° 15 Al-Kout 3 Bairaq 2

21:45 (No Thu, Fri) 15:45, 20:15 14:30, 22:00 13:30, 00:45 16:00 (No Fri, Mon) 19:00 (Thu) 22:00 (Sun, Tue, Wed) 16:45 15:30, 18:15 12:30 (No Fri) 15:00, 17:30, 20:00, 22:30, 01:00 18:15 14:00, 19:00 16:30 (No Fri, Mon) 21:45 (No Thu, Fri, Mon) 14:00, 18:45

The Windmill Massacre Fanar 5 Avenues 1

360° 3

Al-Kout 4

19:00, 21:00, 23:00, 00:45 12:15 (No Fri) 14:15, 16:15, 18:15, 20:15, 22:15, 00:15 11:30 (No Fri) 13:30, 15:30, 17:30, 19:30, 21:30, 23:30, 01:15 13:00 (No Fri) 18:30, 20:30, 22:30, 00:30

Logan Avenues 7 360° 4

21:00, 23:45 20:15, 23:00

Phillauri (Hindi Film) 360° 5 Ajial 2

18:00 15:45, 18:45 21:45 (No Thu)

Oru Mexican Aparatha (Malayalam Film) Plaza Ajial 3

15:30 (No Fri, Mon) 18:30 (Thu) 15:45 (No Fri) 18:45 (No Fri, Mon) 21:45 (No Thu, Fri)

Angamaly Diaries (Malayalam Film) Ajial 1 Ajial 4

15:30, 18:30 (Thu) 19:00 (No Fri, Sat, Mon)

IMAX Imax film programme at The Scientific Center

Sunday Showtime Available for Groups Flying Monsters 3D

09:30 am 10:30 am 07:30 pm A Beautiful Planet 3D 11:30 am 06:30 pm, 09:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 12:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 05:30 pm Kenya: Animal Kingdom 3D 08:30 pm

Monday Showtime Available for Groups 09:30 am A Beautiful Planet 3D 10:30 am 05:30 pm, 07:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 11:30 am 09:30 pm Flying Monsters 3D 12:30 pm, 06:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 08:30 pm

Tuesday Showtime Available for Groups Journey to Space 3D Flying Monsters 3D

09:30 am 10:30 am 11:30 am 09:30 pm A Beautiful Planet 3D 12:30 pm, 05:30 pm, 08:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 06:30 pm Secret Ocean 3D 07:30 pm

Wednesday Showtime Available for Groups Flying Monsters 3D

09:30 am 10:30 am 05:30 pm A Beautiful Planet 3D 11:30 am 06:30 pm, 09:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 12:30 pm Kenya: Animal Kingdom 3D 07:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 08:30 pm

Thursday Showtime Available for Groups A Beautiful Planet 3D

09:30 am 10:30 am 07:30 pm Flying Monsters 3D 11:30 am 06:30 pm, 09:30 pm Kenya: Animal Kingdom 3D 12:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 05:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 08:30 pm

Friday A Beautiful Planet 3D 02:30 pm, 06:30 pm, 09:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 03:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 04:30 pm Secret Ocean 3D 05:30 pm Kenya: Animal Kingdom 3D 07:30 pm Flying Monsters 3D 08:30 pm

Saturday Showtime Available for Groups 09:30 am Flying Monsters 3D 10:30 am 05:30 pm, 07:30 pm A Beautiful Planet 3D 11:30 am 03:30 pm, 08:30 pm Journey to Space 3D 12:30 pm, 06:30 pm, 09:30 pm Humpback Whales 3D 01:30 pm Kenya: Animal Kingdom 3D 02:30 pm Secret Ocean 3D 04:30 pm Notes: All films are in Arabic. For English, headsets are available upon request. Film schedule is subject to changes without notice. For information call 1 848 888 or visit www.tsck.org.kw

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

HEALTH

29

FDA OKs new drug add-on treatment for Parkinson’s

Patients’ reports may aid prostate cancer treatment choice CHICAGO, March 22, (AP): Men with earlystage prostate cancer face a dizzying quandary over which treatment to choose but two new studies on side effects may make those decisions a bit easier. The research bolsters evidence that sexual problems and urinary incontinence are more common after surgery than after radiation or “watchful waiting” without treatment. But it also shows differences in quality of life tend to wane with time for those with prostate cancer that hasn’t spread — the type that affects most men with the disease. Given earlier research showing comparable survival rates, the results also support observation as a reasonable option for men with early disease, especially those with less aggressive tumors, said Dr. Daniel Barocas of Vanderbilt University, leader of one of the studies. Still, he noted, men who choose observation could have problems related to enlarged prostates including frequent urination that those who have surgery don’t face. The research provides a road map to help guide patients’ choices, “and that takes a lot of the terror out of the decision-making,” said prostate cancer survivor Ralph Conwill of Nashville, Tennessee. He helped prepare

First confirmed case of 2017

Qatar reports new coronavirus infection DOHA, March 22, (KUNA): The Qatari Ministry of Public Health reported Tuesday the detection of a new coronavirus infection in the country. Lab tests showed that a 62-year-old resident suffers from the virus, the ministry said in a press statement. It added that the resident was then placed in isolation to receive the necessary medical attention. The statement noted that the person in question did not interact with anyone else with similar symptoms.

The person came in with symptoms of fever and abdominal pain. People who interacted with the patient but did not have any symptoms are currently undergoing the necessary medical examination. They will be monitored for the next two weeks to ensure that no symptoms develop, it stressed. This is the first confirmed case of 2017. There were a total 19 confirmed cases in Qatar, which led to seven deaths.

patients’ questionnaires used in Barocas’ study. Conwill said the diagnosis put him “in shock mode,” and hearing doctors talk about cancer stage, tumor size, treatment options and potential side effects was like a foreign language. He wondered, “’How does that apply to me?’ How in the world do I make this decision?’”

The studies help provide answers, showing quality of life outcomes depends on treatment but also on men’s sexual and urinary function before diagnosis. Conwill knew impotence was possible — but when it happened, “it was devastating — it still is devastating,” said Conwill, who has been married for 52 years. Still, he doesn’t regret

surgery because he’s confident he won’t face cancer again. Both US studies were published Tuesday in the Journal of the American Medical Association. A journal editorial says with these new results, men with early prostate cancer “have never been better informed about the trade-off they have to make.” More than 1 million men worldwide are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, most in developed countries. The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be about 160,000 new US cases and more than 26,000 deaths this year. Patients in both studies who opted for treatment had newer kinds, mostly robotic surgery with small incisions to remove the prostate or external precision radiation that helps spare surrounding tissue. In one study, led by Dr. Ronald Chen at the University of North Carolina, some men got a type of radiation that implants radioactive pellets into the tumor. “No study to date has compared the quality of life outcomes of these (newer) options,” Chen said. The results mostly echo the side effects from older options: persistent impotence and incontinence were more common after surgery, and

both types of radiation caused more short-term urinary problems. Also, men who had external radiation reported more short-term bowel problems.

Also: TRENTON, NJ: US regulators have approved the first new drug in a decade for Parkinson’s disease, a chronic neurological disorder that causes tremors and movement difficulties. The Food and Drug Administration said Tuesday that it has approved Xadago for use when a patient’s regular medicines aren’t working well. The pill was tested in two six-month studies that included about 1,200 patients taking a standard treatment, levodopa. According to the FDA, adding Xadago to levodopa decreased periods with troubling symptoms such as involuntary muscle movement. Patients who took Xadago also had better control of movement compared to groups that got levodopa and dummy pills. Roughly 1 million Americans and up to 10 million people worldwide have Parkinson’s. It generally strikes the elderly, affecting 1 percent to 2 percent of those over age 65.

SEC expected to sell first asset by year-end Riyadh-based ACWA Power said it expects the first of four power generation companies owned by Saudi Electricity Co (SEC) will be offered to the market by the year-end, as the kingdom presses ahead with its overhaul of the state sector. The world’s largest oil exporter plans to split up the statecontrolled utility into separate companies that would be offered

either to local citizens through offers on the stock market, or to local or international corporate partners. Chief Executive Paddy Padmanathan told Reuters that privately-held ACWA Power is still keen to buy assets from SEC after the kingdom completes the restructuring the firm. “We know that consultants have been appointed and we are

Market Movements

very confident that the first bundle will come out, at least the request for qualification, before the end of this year,” Padmanathan said in an interview in Dubai on Tuesday. Preparations to sell the plants are complex due to their different fuel mixes, locations, staffing, and loan agreements and export financing arrangements. (RTRS)

22-03-2017

Change Closing pts INDIA PHILIPPINES HONG KONG S. KOREA JAPAN AUSTRALIA GERMANY

-

Amazon to buy online retailer Souq.com

Sensex All Shares Hang Seng KRX 100 Nikkei All Ordinaries DAX

Change Closing pts -317.77 29,167.68 -36.34 4,369.03 -272.71 24,320.41 -20.30 4,379.00 -414.50 19,041.38 -87.50 5,732.00 -58.01 11,904.12

Amazon.com Inc has agreed in principle to buy 100 percent of Dubai-based online retailer Souq.com from its shareholders, sources familiar with the deal told Reuters on Wednesday. Amazon declined to comment and a spokesperson for Souq. com did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Goldman Sachs acted as adviser for Souq.com and helped to arrange the deal, two of the sources said.

Souq.com, which sells consumer electronics, fashion, household items and other goods, is one of the most high-profile names in the Middle East’s online shopping market. The sources didn’t disclose the price Amazon and Souq. com have agreed on for the deal. The Middle East’s technology sector, including e-commerce, is expanding quickly due to the region’s young and tech-savvy population. Kuwait, Saudi Arabia

and the United Arab Emirates are in the top seven worldwide for mobile phone penetration. Last year Souq.com raised $275 million from a funding round with investors to support its future growth. Investors participating in that funding round included Tiger Global Management, Naspers, Standard Chartered Private Equity, International Finance Corporation and Baillie Gifford. (RTRS)

Business

Govt targeting $9bn in foreign financing in FY 2017-18

Egypt extends capital gains tax freeze for three years CAIRO, March 22, (RTRS): The Egyptian government approved on Tuesday the extension of a freeze on a capital gains tax for three years from May 17, the state news agency MENA reported. The country originally imposed a 10 percent tax on capital gains in July, 2014, as part of efforts to replenish depleted state coffers, but the following year suspended the tax under pressure from investors for a period of two years. Tuesday’s decision extends that freeze for another three years. The cabinet also approved a stamp duty on stock exchange transactions for both buyers and sellers set at 1.25 Egyptian pounds per 1,000 for the first year of the tax’s introduction, rising to 1.5 pounds in the second year and 1.75 in the third. It will also impose a levy of 3 pounds per 1,000 for investors buying or selling more than a third of a company’s stocks. The Finance Ministry targets raising revenues of 1-1.5 billion Egyptian pounds ($54.8 million-$82.2 million) in the first year of the new stamp duty, Deputy Finance Minister Amr al-Munayer told Reuters on Monday. The extension to the capital gains

tax freeze and the new stamp duty were introduced in a bill amending Egypt’s income tax laws and are subject to a vote in parliament before President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi can sign it into law. Investors had said the capital gains tax discouraged business at a time Egypt was struggling to recover from the 2011 uprising and subsequent political upheaval.

Also: CAIRO: Egypt is targeting $9 billion in foreign financing in the 2017-18 fiscal year, Deputy Finance Minister Ahmed Kouchouk told Reuters on Wednesday. The financing will be divided between $3 billion obtained from debt markets and $5 billion to $6 billion from international finance institutions, he said. Egypt agreed with the International Monetary Fund in November on a $12 billion, three-year loan programme to support government efforts to reduce its budget deficit and balance its currency market. The finance minister said last week he expects Egypt to receive the second tranche of this loan, expected to be $1.25 billion, in May or June. Egypt is also expected to receive

Long positions cut by 84m bls

Hedge funds exit as oil trade becomes crowded John Kemp is a Reuters market analyst. The views expressed are his own. — Editor







By John Kemp edge funds cut their bullH ish bets on oil by the largest amount on record in the week to March 14, according to the latest data published by regulators and exchanges. Hedge funds and other money managers cut their combined net long position in the three main futures and options contracts linked to Brent and WTI by a record 153 million barrels in just seven days. The reduction in the net long position coincided with the sharp fall in oil prices, which started on March 8 and continued through March 14. The adjustment was split almost evenly between the liquidation of old long positions and the establishment of new short positions. Hedge fund managers reduced long positions by 84 million barrels while short positions were increased by 70 million barrels. Fund managers’ net long position has been reduced by a cumulative total of 230 million barrels over the last three weeks from a peak of 951 million barrels on Feb 21. Most fund managers are still bullish about the outlook for oil but that bias is less pronounced than it was a month ago. Hedge fund long positions outnumber short positions by a ratio of 4.4:1, but that come down from a ratio of 10.3:1 on Feb 21. Before the recent sell off, hedge fund managers had boosted their net long position in Brent and WTI by 530 million barrels between the middle of November and the middle of February. Funds amassed a record 1.05 billion barrels of long positions, while short positions were cut to

just 102 million barrels, the smallest number since oil prices started slumping in 2014. But large concentrations of hedge fund positions, and an imbalance between the long and short sides of the market, often precede a sharp reversal in oil prices. A sharp selloff in oil prices had been widely anticipated for some time before it actually occurred. Crude oil prices and hedge fund positions seem to have reached a turning point about two weeks before the sharp drop in oil prices on March 8. Brent spot prices, calendar spreads, and the spread between Brent and Oman futures all reached a turning point on, or shortly after, Feb 21. The first new hedge fund short positions began to emerge after Feb 21, with 25 million barrels of Brent and WTI short positions added in the week to Feb 28. Funds added another 17 million barrels of short positions in the week to Mar 7, then an extra 70 million in the week to March 14. The selloff in Brent and WTI prices, which was barely perceptible at first, developed a momentum of its own and turned into an avalanche on March 8. Accelerating liquidation of long positions, emergence of new short positions, and a sudden drop in prices are all hallmarks of a trade that had become crowded, culminating in a rush for the exit. The subsequent reduction in the hedge funds’ net long position and sharp fall in prices has removed much of the short-term positioning risk that had been hanging over the oil market for the last two months. Now that the predicted rush for the exits has occurred, and some of the froth has blown off the market, the outlook for oil prices is looking much more balanced than a few weeks ago. (RTRS)

Libyan crude oil output rises after port fighting ends – NOC TRIPOLI, March 22, (RTRS): Libya’s oil production has reached 700,000 barrels per day (bpd), the National Oil Corporation (NOC) said on Wednesday, recovering from a drop earlier this month caused by fighting at two key oil ports. “We are working very hard to reach 800,000 barrels by the end of April 2017, and, God willing, we will reach 1.1 million barrels next August,” NOC Chairman Mustafa Sanalla was quoted as saying in a statement. The NOC said in a separate statement it hoped to produce 55,000 bpd in the coming weeks from the Abu Attifel and Rimal fields, which are currently closed for maintenance. The fields are operated by Mellitah Oil and Gas, a joint venture between the NOC and Italy’s ENI. The NOC said Mellitah is currently producing 41,000 bpd from onshore and offshore fields, as

well as 43,000 bpd of condensate. Libya’s output fell to around 600,000 bpd after eastern security forces lost control on March 3 of the major oil terminals of Es Sider and Ras Lanuf, before regaining them 11 days later. Sanalla has said he expects to regain control over operations at the ports, despite some officials in eastern Libya appearing to cast doubt over continuing cooperation with the NOC in Tripoli. Workers at the ports have been gradually returning to their posts, and a tanker is expected to load of crude at Es Sider on Saturday or Sunday, according to shipping sources. The NOC said on Monday that some gains could come from the southwestern Sharara field, where it hopes to boost production by 70,000 bpd, from 221,000 bpd currently.

Saudi retail property developer shows faith in Egypt CAIRO, March 22, (RTRS): Saudiowned retail property developer Marakez is investing 15 billion Egyptian pounds ($829 million) in Egypt and could double that within five years as the country pushes through economic reforms. Egypt, the most populous Arab country, has been trying to revive its economy since a 2011 uprising ushered in an era of political and economic turmoil, deterring tourists and foreign investors that were major sources of hard currency. Those efforts received a boost in November when Egypt floated its currency, devaluing the pound, and agreed $12 billion of funding from the International Monetary Fund to support its economic reform programme. “Three months ago a lot of investors were looking and just seeing a brick wall that we were about to crash into,” Marakez Chief Execu-

tive Ahmed Badrawi told Reuters. “They were not seeing any light at all. But after the devaluation, I think a lot — especially foreign investors — now see that things are cheaper and that there is a plan and it looks like they will stick to the plan.” Marakez, an Egyptian subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Fawaz Al Hokair Group, established Egypt’s biggest retail mall on a 200 acre site in Cairo’s 6th of October suburb in 2011 and is now planning on developing three others in addition to its first residential project in Cairo. Fawaz Al Hokair Group has retail and real estate operations across the Middle East, North Africa, the United States and Central Asia. “The group took the view in 2015, when Egypt was pretty much in the thick of it and times were very bad, that we are long-term investors,” Badrawi said, adding that its projects will become operational

three or four years down the line as Egypt’s recovery programme begins to bear fruit. Marakez will start the second phase of its Mall of Arabia — a 42,000 square metre extension — next month and is also planning to launch the residential project on a 21 acre site next to the mall. It also acquired two sites for malls in the east of Cairo and a third mall in the underdeveloped city of Tanta. “All of these decisions are taken with the retail background in mind,” Badrawi said, pointing to an Egyptian consumer base of 93 million people. “My investors are ready to pour a lot more money in ... I think that there is scope for double the size of the investment within five years.” While more than $3.5 billion in foreign investment has flowed into Egyptian Treasury bills and bonds

since the currency was floated, direct foreign investment in Egyptian projects has yet to attract the same level of interest. Among efforts to address that is a proposed investment law aimed at slicing through Egypt’s notorious red tape to make it easier and quicker for investors to do business, though the legislation has yet to pass through parliament. Investors also remain concerned about the repatriation of profits, with Egypt still facing a foreign currency shortage and banks prioritising dollar allocations for imported goods. In 2015/16 Egypt attracted about $6.8 billion in direct foreign investment, but Finance Minister Amr El Garhy said on Monday that he is optimistic that renewed interest in Egypt after the devaluation of the pound will lift the total to between $13 billion and $15 billion in the next financial year.

additional tranches of loans from the World Bank and African Development Bank in 2017-18, which together would total $1.5 billion.

Kouchouk said the $3 billion from debt markets could come in the form of Eurobonds denominated in dollars or other currencies as well

as Sukuk. He did not say when Egypt was likely to tap debt markets during the coming fiscal year, which begins in July.

Egypt raised $4 billion in sales of Eurobonds earlier this year at lowerthan-expected yields, with demand for the bonds high.

Fitch downgrades Saudi rtg, doubts prospects of reform Kingdom spends money to make money in foreign investment drive It said planned hikes in domestic energy prices to cut the government’s subsidy burden could severely hurt energy-intensive industries, while higher fees for hiring foreign workers — part of an effort to increase employment for Saudi citizens — could undermine large parts of the private sector. However, bond prices firmed, with the Saudi government’s U.S. dollar bonds maturing in 2021 yielding around 2.85 percent compared with a close of 2.897 Prices of Saudi bonds stayed firm, however. Fitch downgraded Saudi Arabia by one notch to A+ with a stable outlook from percent on Tuesday. Its 2026 bonds traded at 3.66 percent against 3.726 percent. A Lebanon-based trader said the downgrade was creating some activity in the AA- with a negative outlook. It said that while the leadership was strongly committed to diversifying the economy beyond oil, that intention might not be enough. bonds, but that the price changes were minimal. Traders noted that Fitch’s downgrade merely brought its rating closer to the “In Fitch’s view, the scale of the reform agenda risks overwhelming the government’s administrative capacity,” the ratings agency said in a statement, . other two major rating agencies. Standard & Poor’s rates the kingdom A-, two notches below Fitch, while Moody’s has it at A1, level with Fitch. All three agencies now have stable outlooks on Saudi Arabian debt, suggesting there is no imminent risk of any further downgrade. In a statement responding to Fitch’s move, Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan said the economy and the government’s balance sheet were fundamentally strong. “The Saudi economy has structurally aligned itself to a lower oil price environment as reflected in a more sustainable balancing price for its fiscal and current accounts,” he said. Financial market movements in the past few months suggest many investors agree. Measures of stress in the financial system have fallen sharply; this month the cost of insuring Saudi sovereign debt against default hit its lowest since September 2015. A tour of Asia by Saudi Arabia’s King Salman this month has advanced the Kingdom’s drive to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy beyond oil exports, but the strategy comes with an expensive price tag. In China, the Saudi king oversaw the signing of deals worth as much as $65 billion in industries including light manufacturing and electronics, as both sides played up a Saudi role in China’s One Belt, This file photo shows the Google Maps app on a smartphone, in New York. Google is enabling users of its digital One Road strategy to integrate Eurmapping service to allow their movements to be tracked by friends and family in the latest test of how much privacy asian economies. people are willing to sacrifice in an era of rampant sharing. (AP) A string of deals in Japan included an undertaking by Toyota Motor Corp Google Maps already tracks you; now other people can, too to study the possibility of making vehicles in Saudi Arabia. That was good news for Riyadh’s Google Maps users will soon be for how long — anywhere from a “We don’t feel like we are effort to build a modern, industrial able to broadcast their movements few minutes to indefinitely. changing the game,” said Jen economy which it hopes will create to friends and family via the app — But location sharing in one of Fitzpatrick, Google’s vice presimillions of jobs and allow it to cope the latest test of how much privacy the world’s most popular apps dent of maps. with an era of cheap oil. people are willing to sacrifice in an could cause friction in marriages Maps users will be able to acBut despite much fanfare, the tour saw era of rampant sharing. and other relationships if one tivate the location-sharing feafew concrete plans for foreign investThe location-monitoring feature partner demands to know where ture by tapping a button near ment in the Kingdom’s non-oil sectors, will begin rolling out Wednesday the other is at all times. Similar the search bar and then picking even at the non-binding memorandum of in an update to the Google Maps tensions could arise if parents a person from their contact list understanding (MoU) level. mobile app, which is already ininsist their teenagers turn on the to text with the information. If the Most of the big deals were in refinstalled on most of the world’s location-sharing option before recipient doesn’t have the Google ing and petrochemicals, not the new smartphones. It will also be availthey go out. Maps app on their phone, it will industries Riyadh hopes to develop able on personal computers. Similar tracking is already availtext them a link to open the locathrough its Vision 2030 economic reGoogle believes the new tool able on other apps; Glympse, tion on the map in a browser. form programme. will be a more convenient way founded by former Microsoft emThe settings also allow users to And as with investments by its top for people to let someone know ployees, has offered this function determine how long their movesovereign wealth fund, the Public Inwhere they are without having to for years. That’s one of the reaments can be tracked each time a vestment Fund (PIF), many proposed text or call them. The Mountain sons Google isn’t expecting a lot of location is shared. If no time limit projects are located outside Saudi AraView, California, company has complaints about adding the option is selected, Google will periodibia and would require Riyadh itself to set up the controls so individuals to Maps, especially since everyone cally send people email remindstump up billions of dollars as investcan decide with whom they want can decide when to turn it on and ers that they’re still sharing their ment capital. to share their whereabouts and who can monitor them. location. (AP)

DUBAI, March 22, (RTRS): Fitch Ratings cut its assessment of Saudi Arabia’s credit quality on Wednesday, citing deterioration of state finances due to low oil prices and doubts over whether Riyadh can achieve its economic reform plans.

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Uber vows to change direction, become more humane company Uber is vowing to head down a new road and become a more humane company following a wave of ugly developments, including allegations of rampant sexual harassment and a video of a profanitylaced confrontation between the ridehailing company’s CEO and a disgruntled driver. The pledge came in a contrite conference call held Tuesday with some of the reporters who have been covering the incidents that have painted an unflattering portrait of the company, threatening

to trigger a backlash among the riders and drivers who have propelled its rapid rise. Even as it acknowledges past mistakes, Uber says the fallout hasn’t damaged its business yet. Ridership in the US during the first 10 weeks of this year is up from the same time last year, according to Rachel Holt, who oversees Uber’s operations in the US and Canada. Holt was one of three women who handled Tuesday’s damage control, joining

Uber’s only female board member, Arianna Huffington, and Liane Hornsey, the company’s head of human resources. Uber CEO Travis Kalanick was conspicuously absent from Tuesday’s call, though he is in the eye of the storm thrashing the company. Company representatives said Kalanick couldn’t attend because he was busy interviewing the candidates vying to become the company’s chief operating officer, a helping hand that Kalanick has said he needs to “grow up” at the age of 40. (AP)

In this file photo, a sign marks a pick-up point for the Uber car service at LaGuardia Airport in New York. Uber is vowing to head down a new road and become a more humane company. (AP)

Pullback leaves stocks vulnerable to long-anticipated correction

Markets fret as Trump agenda shows signs of cracks NEW YORK, March 22, (RTRS): The steepest pullback in stocks since the US presidential election reveals investor angst about US President Donald Trump’s ability to push through major reforms, leaving stocks vulnerable to a long-anticipated correction. The S&P 500, in its second longest bull market ever, has risen close to 10 percent since the Nov 8 election on optimism about Trump’s pro-growth agenda. With valuations at their highest in over a decade, investors have been expecting a pullback even if its catalysts haven’t been clear. Trump, looking to score the first major political win of his presidency, on Tuesday warned Republican lawmakers that if a healthcare bill he backs fails to pass, it would cause “political problems.” Stocks fell alongside the US dollar, while Treasuries and gold rallied. “It’s like the Trump agenda getting kind of slapped in the face,” said Peter Tuz, president of Chase Investment Counsel in Charlottesville, Virginia. Investors saw the health bill vote, expected on Thursday, as testing optimism that the Trump administration and Republican leaders will implement tax cuts, deregulation and infrastructure spending expected to boost economic growth. The muddled view on the healthcare bill “carries over to what will happen with the infrastructure plan and the tax reform plan and the reduced regulation plan,” Tuz said. Adding to the angst, FBI Director James Comey on Monday confirmed that the bureau is investigating possible ties between Trump’s presidential campaign and Russia as Moscow sought to influence the 2016 US election. The investigation, he said, could last for months.

Wall St should avoid cutting foreign bank ties: regulator

Trader Gregory Rowe, center, and specialist Philip Finale (right), work on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, on March 22. Stocks are treading water in early trading as gains in high-dividend stocks are outweighed by drops in banks and other sectors. (AP)

Comey’s testimony “pointed to the fact that there could be a lot of drawnout political infighting that could delay some of the pro-business ideas from being passed,” said Rick Meckler, president of LibertyView Capital Management in Jersey City, New Jersey. He said he doesn’t expect to see a correction unless the S&P 500, currently down about 2 percent from the record high set March 1, retreats another 1.5 to 2 percent in the next few days. “That would cause investors to

maybe take a pause in what has been a buy-the-dip mentality since the election,” Meckler said. The S&P forward price to earnings ratio has jumped to above 18 from 16.6 on Election Day, making US equities the most expensive level since 2004. At the same time, the index’s dividend yield sits just above 2 percent, losing some of its allure against the 10-year Treasury note. The S&P 500 has not posted a daily decline of more than 1 percent since Oct 11. Tuesday’s move in stocks un-

Dividends in focus

Fannie, Freddie revamp unlikely this year

In this file photo, a customer uses a Wells Fargo bank ATM in New York. On on March 21, Wells Fargo announced plans to upgrade all 13,000 of its ATMs to allow customers to access their funds using their cellphones instead of traditional bank cards. (AP)

All ATMs will take phone codes, not just cards, says Wells Fargo NEW YORK, March 22, (AP): Wells Fargo plans to upgrade all 13,000 of its ATMs next week to allow customers to access their funds using their cellphones instead of traditional bank cards. The announcement was made by Wells Fargo CEO Tim Sloan on Tuesday at an employee town hall in Orlando. While banks like JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America have announced similar upgrades to their ATMs, those are still being rolled out. Wells would be the first to upgrade all of its ATMs with the feature across the United States. To access their money, customers would get unique eight-digit codes from their Wells Fargo smartphone app, and enter the code into the ATM along with their PIN number. The machines will still accept debit cards as well. “Whether a customer happens to have a card on them or not, (the up-

grade) provides another simple and secure way to withdraw cash at any of our ATMs,” said Adam Vancini, head of virtual channel operations at Wells Fargo. One limitation of the one-time code, though, is that it won’t work on the secure doors that many branches have for non-business hours that require a customer to swipe an ATM or debit card to gain entry. Wells Fargo said those secure doors are found at a small percentage of branches, mostly in major metropolitan areas like New York City or Chicago. The announcement comes as Wells Fargo is looking for ways to woo back the customers it alienated after the San Francisco-based bank admitted that employees opened as many as 2 million checking and credit card accounts for their customers without getting authorization.

Germany to hike state pension by up to 3.6 percent from July BERLIN, March 22, (RTRS): Germany’s 21 million pensioners will see their state benefit rise by up to 3.6 percent from July, Labour Minister Andrea Nahles said on Wednesday, in line with solid wage increases secured by German workers this year. The increases to the state pension will not be as big as unusually large increases last year but could still help boost private consumption in Europe’s largest economy, which is increasingly relying on household spending to drive growth as exports have weakened. The state pension in western Germany will rise by 1.9 percent on July 1, while

in former East Germany it will increase by 3.6 percent as the government continues to narrow the gap between the two regions. Nahles, a member of the Social Democrats (SPD) — the junior partner in Chancellor Angela Merkel’s ruling coalition — announced the rises six months before the country’s national election, which is expected to be tight. Last year the state pension rose by 4.25 percent in western Germany and 5.95 percent in the former Communist East — the highest increase in more than 20 years, though it was partly caused by a one-off statistical effect.

WASHINGTON, March 22, (RTRS): An overhaul of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is highly unlikely to make it into this year’s legislative calendar, Congressional staffers say, possibly shifting the new administration’s immediate focus to allowing the mortgage financing institutions’ to rebuild depleted capital. Fannie and Freddie stocks soared late last year when President Donald Trump’s pick for Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said the companies that have been in government conservatorship since the 2008 financial crisis should be privatized. Hedge funds and other investors have been lobbying for the removal of government controls over the mortgage giants’ profits, which since 2012 have been transferred to the Treasury, and their eventual privatization. The shares dipped when Mnuchin seemed to backpedal on the privatization pledge during his January confirmation hearing and suffered another setback last month when a court rejected investors’ suit against the dividend transfers. Congressional staffers say the Senate Banking Committee has begun weekly bipartisan staff briefings on Freddie and Fannie reforms, but it is starting from scratch. The House Financial Services Committee is focused on other legislation, such as renewing the flood insurance program and rolling back parts of the Dodd-Frank financial reform, pushing the mortgage giants’ revamp down the to-do list, they say.

Focus Instead, investors’ focus is shifting to how Mnuchin and Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Mel Watt, an Obama Administration holdover, will manage the dividends transfers. Analysts expect the two institutions to make a full $10 billion dividend payment for the fourth quarter on March 31. But investors will be looking for any indication from Watt or Mnuchin about whether they plan to allow the mortgage firms to retain profits later on and begin the slow recapitalization process. Though rebuilding an adequate capital buffer would take years - as long as two to three presidential administrations, according to one analyst - it would eventually allow Fannie and Freddie to leave government conservatorship, returning value to their investors. Watt has warned the mortgage giants have a dangerously thin capital buffer. Mnuchin said during his confirmation hearing he favored finding a “bipartisan fix.” The two will likely wait for congressional inaction to become a de facto impasse before letting Freddie and Fannie hold on to their profits, analysts said, estimating a decision could be made two or three quarters out. “Mnuchin has been out there talking about a bipartisan agreement,” Heights Securities analyst Edwin Groshans told Reuters. “That process will have to play out until it in essence fails. When that process fails, that would open the opportunity for Mnuchin and Watts to act.”

derscores trends in other markets already pricing in a risk that the Trump administration’s plans could be delayed. The Mexican peso, which weakened during the presidential campaign with rising prospects of a Trump win, traded last week at its strongest versus the dollar since the November election. It had hit a historic low in mid-January. The yen, up against the dollar for a sixth straight session, was on track to close below 112 per $1 for the first time since Feb 8.

WASHINGTON/ST LOUIS, March 22, (RTRS): US banks should not cut ties with foreign clients over moneylaundering worries unless officials have concrete cause for concern, a leading US regulator is telling staff and lenders. The message has come through phone calls, speeches and an uncommon notice from the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, the top regulator for national banks, banking and regulatory sources said. A four-page memorandum sent to bank examiners last month said foreign lenders and their customers are hurt when Wall Street turns its back. “Customers that cannot make alternative banking arrangements elsewhere may effectively be cut off from the regulated financial system altogether,” according to the “supervision tips” memo obtained by Reuters. The OCC typically issues only a few such memos each year to help examiners navigate complex banking issues. Policymakers have become increasingly concerned that banks are ejecting broad swaths of customers from the financial system out of fear of being penalized over money-laundering violations. For example, customers with ties to Yemen or Syria have a harder time maintaining accounts and banks have ended such relationships, according to a senior compliance officer at a major US bank. To steer clear of violations, JPMorgan Chase & Co stopped doing business with 18,000 customers in 2015 and

pulled back from 500 foreign partner banks, CEO Jamie Dimon told investors in a letter last year. Regulators want to prevent terrorists from swapping cash through US banks or their foreign partners. Banks must file a “suspicious activity report” when they encounter a transaction that could be criminal - like a series of small-dollar transfers. But the rules can hamper ordinary money transfers or charitable giving. US firms have warned that they cannot vouch for the customers of their foreign partner banks. That is one reason fewer banks will handle transfers of funds Somalis living in the United States want to send to relatives at home. More Somalis live in Minnesota than anywhere else in the United States and Rep. Keith Ellison of Minneapolis is among leading Democrats who have called for easing banking rules. The “know your customer” standard expects banks to understand their clients’ business. But there are limits. “There is no general requirement to know your customers’ customer,” Thomas Curry, the OCC chief, said in September. The OCC conveyed that message to examiners in a January conference call, as well as the “tips” memo. On the call, “we were told we would no longer be asking for customer lists for foreign correspondent banking relationships for the banks we oversee,” said one official who was on the call but not authorized to speak to the media.

Tight supply, higher prices weigh on US home resales

In this file photo, real estate signs mark the lots near one of the new homes for sale in a development for new homes in Cranberry Township, Butler County, Pa. Americans retreated from buying existing homes in February, a pullback after sales in January had surged to the fastest pace in a decade, according to information released on March 22, by the National Association of Realtors. Over the past 12 months, sales are up solidly. (AP)

Housing inventory drops 6.4% from year ago WASHINGTON, March 22, (RTRS): US home resales fell more than expected in February amid a persistent shortage of houses on the market that is pushing up prices and sidelining prospective buyers. The National Association of Realtors said on Wednesday existing home sales declined 3.7 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.48 million units last month after hitting a 10-year high in January. Sales were up 5.4 percent from February 2016, underscoring the sustainability of the housing market recovery despite the supply constraints. The median house price surged 7.7 percent from a year ago to $228,400 in February. That marked the 60th consecutive month of year-on-year price gains. “There is a small supply of homes for sale and great demand for them, and that’s driving prices higher in many markets. We believe the strong appetite for homes will continue, people just need more homes to choose from,” said Gino Blefari, president at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in Orange County, California. Economists had forecast sales de-

creasing 2.0 percent last month. In February, houses typically stayed on the market for 45 days, down from 59 days a year ago. Despite February’s sales drop, the housing market was on track to again contribute to economic growth in the first quarter through increases in homebuilding and broker commissions. US financial markets were little moved by the data as investors focused instead on potential delays to President Donald Trump’s economic agenda, including his pledge to cut taxes. The PHLX housing index fell 0.5 percent. US stock indexes were mostly weaker while prices for US government bonds rose. The dollar fell against a basket of currencies. Economists said there were few signs sales had been significantly affected by rising mortgage rates. Although annual wage growth has stubbornly remained below 3 percent, economists expect an acceleration as the job market, which is near full employment, tightens further. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate is hovering at 4.30 percent. The Federal Reserve last week raised its benchmark overnight interest rate by 25 basis points to a range of 0.75 percent to 1.00 percent. The US central bank has forecast two more rate hikes for 2017.

A separate report from the Mortgage Bankers Association on Wednesday showed applications for loans to purchase homes fell 2.7 percent last week from near a four-month peak. “Despite supply constraints, we see a resilient labor market and solid real income gains as likely to support a decent pace of home sales ahead, although given the backup in rates we may experience some pullback in the near term,” said Kevin Cummins, a senior economist at Natwest Markets in Stamford, Connecticut. Last month, sales fell in the Northeast, West and Midwest regions, but rose in the South. Though the number of homes on the market increased 4.2 percent to 1.75 million units last month, housing inventory remained near the all-time low of 1.65 million units hit in December. Supply was down 6.4 percent from a year ago. Housing inventory has dropped for 21 straight months on a year-on-year basis. Builders have been unable to fill the inventory gap, citing rising prices for materials, higher borrowing costs, and shortages of lots and labor. Lennar Corp, the second-largest US homebuilder, reported on Tuesday a drop in quarterly gross margin as the company struggled with higher land and construction costs.

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slashed prices from Japan at Al Rai showroom tomorrow Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz AlBabtain Company (AABC), the authorized dealer of Nissan vehicles in the State of Kuwait is open tomorrow Friday 24th of March 2017 because that’s how the Japanese serve their customers when giving them an offer this month. In keeping with current demand for people’s favorite designs. Nissan Al-Babtain Al-Rai Showroom welcomes customers tomorrow with special Japanese prices. The

A flyer of Al-Babtain special offers

offers include the Altima starting from KD 5,199, Maxima starting from KD 7, 350, X-trail starting from KD 5,999, Pathfinder starting from KD 7,750 and the Patrol Platinum FES starting from KD 16,450. Influenced by the brand’s roots and owing to its strong heritage of masterful leadership, the brand continues to exceed customer expectations by presenting innovative opportunities to own the most uni-

versally admired brand in Kuwait. The ‘way of the warrior’ serves as a unique philosophy for Nissan AlBabtain to excel with a competitive edge and drive more customers to be part of a lasting legacy. Hence why Nissan Al-Babtain welcomes all their customers tomorrow in their Al-Rai showroom. Nissan Al-Babtain is known for its persistent creativity and immeasurable design concepts that preserve brand integrity and steer

its customers towards enjoying a premium experience on every level. Intended for the people of Kuwait to maximize on this window of opportunity, Nissan Al-Babtain urges everyone to speedily take advantage of the special prices. Visit Nissan Al-Babtain Al-Rai showroom this Friday and appreciate the world of difference of driving inside of a globally esteemed brand.

Bank honored for second consecutive year for its ‘simpler banking’ model

ABK wins ‘Best Retail Bank in Kuwait’ award 2017 KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait (ABK) recently won the prestigious Best Retail Bank in Kuwait award from The Asian Banker for the second year in a row. The award, which is sought after in the banking industry, is given each year by one of Asia’s most highly regarded financial research organisations and follows a stringent evaluation, benchmarking process and assessment by an independent international expert panel. The award was received by Stewart Lockie, General Manager of Retail Banking at ABK, who represented ABK at the International Excellence in Retail Awards ceremony held on March 17, 2017 in Tokyo, Japan. Ceremony Speaking after the ceremony, Lockie said: “At ABK we are extremely proud of this achievement. Winning ‘Best Retail Bank’ for a second consecutive year underlines the long-term and consistent progress the Bank has made in making banking simpler for its customers, while keeping focus firmly on service quality and product choice. This award is a reflection of the hard work of the whole ABK team and is an endorsement which we are all very proud to receive.” During the past two years ABK

Barclays aims for bigger share of euro clearing business in ME

Stewart Lockie receiving Best Retail Bank in Kuwait Award from The Asian Banker.

has focused on enhancing services to its customers through investment in technology, innovative products and customer service refinements under the umbrella of ‘Simpler Banking’, creating a retail bank-

ing model which offers customers superior convenience, speed and security. The Bank is committed to continuing to build on the success it has achieved to date and setting new benchmarks for retail banking

customer service in the region. For more information about Al Ahli Bank of Kuwait please visit eahli.com or contact a customer service agent via ‘Ahlan Ahli’ at 1899899.

DUBAI, March 22, (RTRS): Barclays aims to increase its share of the euro clearing business in the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) from low double-digits to 25 percent in the next three years, a senior Barclays executive said, capitalising on growing demand from companies for transactions in euros. Barclays is already one of the largest clearers of transactions in sterling and has stepped up efforts in euro clearing in the past few years. “It is about gaining market share in the euro clearing right now,” KP Sunil Rao, director of the financial institutions group in MENA, said. “We are in lower double digit. I think it could increase to 25 percent market share, hopefully in the next three years.” Rao also said the bank had reassured clients in the region that the bank would retain the capacity to clear euros after Brexit. In Britain, there is uncertainty over whether London will be able to clear euros after Brexit but big British banks like Barclays will continue to be able to clear euros through their offices in the euro

zone. Clearing is the process of settling transactions between banks and is big business for large global lenders. Barclays’ share of the sterling clearing business within its targeted countries in MENA has risen to 40 percent from 9 percent in 2009, a time when some other British banks such as Royal Bank of Scotland and Lloyds Banking Group have scaled back in the region. Some international banks have cut correspondent banking ties to lenders in the region as they seek to shed risks. “We have 40 percent of the market share for sterling clearing and our market share for euro clearing is growing, so we have not backed away from this region,” David Scola, global head of financial institutions at Barclays, said. Barclays last year trimmed nearly 150 staff from its corporate banking arm in Dubai as part of a wide-ranging restructuring following the appointment of Jes Staley as chief executive in December 2015.

Focus on movements of markets and technical analysis

Noor Capital Markets holds seminar KUWAIT CITY, March 22: An interesting seminar was held by Noor Capital Markets about the International markets in which they tackled vital subjects. The tutor Mohamed Al Hajeri introduced a proficient analysis for the global economics platforms and the factors influencing the movements of the markets. “In our free monthly workshops; our main objective is to explore the markets’ actions so that the investors can acquire the know-how of market analysis. Providing our support to our customers as in direct communication with those interested in our business. Out of trends of investments, the international markets contribute with the biggest markets’ shares globally. To invest smartly and generate better profits is our main endeavors for investors and potential investors. Moreover to get to know the basic applications and products such as oil, gold and currencies.” Assistant managerbusiness development at Noor CM, Nada Sulaiman stated. “We displayed noteworthy topics like the movements of the markets and fundamental and technical analyses. The workshop meant to empower the knowledge of online trading skills and risk- avoid- techniques. A successful cooperation today with a professional team like Noor CM’s”, Mohamed Al Hajeri, the markets’ specialist concluded.

Photos from the event

‘Trade ... Race and Win’ campaign dedicated for online traders

NCM launches its grand campaign for 2017 KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Noor Capital Markets launched its major campaign for the year 2017 “Trade ... Race and Win”, dedicated for online traders; the first presence of NCM team at their booth in The Avenues mall stirred an attraction to the mall visitors and met positive perceptions from booth guests. “We met lots of individuals interested in our grand campaign and also in our business. We have recorded a high registration ratio and an attractive magnetism for

Photos from the event

the campaign mechanism and its hero prize “the 2017 Camaro”. NCM’s team provided a professional support to the visitors as per the campaign’s information and concerning the company’s business too.” Faraz Mushtaq, Head of Marketing at Noor Capital Markets stated. “Our first booth in the campaign at The Avenues mall has generated notable registrations into the contest. We touched also a remarkable interest in online trading and a familiarity with the global markets business. We also explained to visitors the easy method of participation so that the contesters get fair chances for winning.” Mushtaq proceeded. It is worth mentioning that the booth will be present at Gate Mall this Thursday until Saturday 25 March, it will be present later at Sulayel Al-Jahra mall in order to meet in person the individuals interested in the competition and to provide adequate explanation for them about the competition.”

Photos from Noor Capital Markets seminar on international markets.

SBG creditors agree to $1.1 bln financing extension DUBAI, March 22, (RTRS): Saudi Binladin Group’s (SBG) creditors have agreed to extend by two years a 4 billion riyal ($1.1 billion) Islamic credit facility to pay for building work at the Kingdom’s Grand Mosque in Mecca, banking sources said. SBG, historically one of the heavyweights of the kingdom’s construction sector, has been struggling because of delayed payments from the government. Its plight has eased since the start of the year after the government settled some of that debt. Creditors have signed documentation

to extend by two years 4 billion riyals of the total 10 billion riyals of a facility it had drawn down, the sources said. The credit would be extended from the end of 2017 to the end of 2019. The loan will now have a similar timeframe to the completion of the mosque project, which has been delayed to allow the Saudi government to defer some of its spending plans. The facility will carry a profit rate of about 7.5 percent, sources told Reuters. Nobody was immediately available to comment from SBG.

The company has been involved in many major infrastructure developments in recent years, but like other contractors it has been hit by a stalling of projects and delayed payments as the government has curbed spending due to weaker oil prices. Dubai Islamic Bank was the lead bank on the facility, with the other banks mainly United Arab Emiratesbased including Emirates NBD and Noor Bank, the sources said, with one adding that Ajman Bank, Union National Bank and Mashreq were also involved.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

BUSINESS

33

Afghan project underlines China’s growing role Afghan authorities expect work on the first phase of a multimillion dollar housing project financed by China to begin within months, as Beijing continues to raise its development profile in the region. The project, originally announced in 2015 during a visit to Kabul by Chinese Vice-President Li Yuanchao, is expected to see construction of 10,000 housing units for Afghan civil servants after the project was cleared by both

governments last week. The first phase will see 1,400 units built near the old Darulaman palace in the capital Kabul, with China agreeing to provide 500 million yuan ($73 million) in finance. Two further phases are expected to follow, depending on successful implementation of the first stage. “So far, the project is the largest Chinese-supported project in Afghanistan,” Hamid Jalil, a deputy

minister at the Ministry of Urban Development told Reuters. “We hope that within two to three months, we’ll be able to finalise procurement and start,” he said. China is investing heavily in the region, with the $57 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project to link its landlocked northwest to the Arabian Sea and projects such as the massive Mes Aynak copper mine in Afghanistan. (RTRS)

Greece eyes bailout deal with lenders within April Greece said on Wednesday it hopes for a deal with its international lenders within the month of April and is working to bridge differences on labour, pension and energy reforms. The onus for an agreement was not only on the Greek government, but on its European Union and International Monetary Fund lenders too, government spokesman Dimitris Tzanakopoulos told reporters. Three Greek ministers, including

its finance minister, are in Brussels this week in an attempt to thrash out a deal with creditors on reforms, necessary for lenders to sign off on a bailout review needed for disbursement of a fresh tranche of aid. The officials decided to stay on after an inconclusive meeting of eurozone finance ministers in Brussels on March 20. Athens is eyeing what it calls a “comprehensive deal” with lenders which would also address the

intentions of creditors vis-a-vis debt restructuring for the crisis-hit country. It wants a deal on “technical reforms” covering pending energy and labour issues before moving on to discussions on medium-term measures for debt and agreeing on levels of primary surpluses. “(Our aim) is to reach a comprehensive agreement the soonest, and if possible, within April,” Tzanakopoulos said. (RTRS)

Critics say alliances can lead to higher prices for customers

Container shipping lines ordered to testify in US sector probe LONDON/SINGAPORE, March 22, (RTRS): The US Justice Department has ordered top executives from several container shipping lines to testify in an antitrust investigation over practices by an industry that is the backbone of world trade, the companies said on Wednesday. The world’s biggest container group, Denmark’s A.P. Moller-Maersk, together with second largest line MSC of Switzerland, Germany’s Hapag Lloyd, Taiwan-based Evergreen and Hong Kong-based Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) said their executives were among those who had been subpoenaed. None offered details on what exactly was being sought by the US authorities, although OOCL said its subpoena called for the production of documents. The subpoenas were issued during a meeting of top container shipping executives last week in San Francisco. They are members of the International Council of Containership Operators, commonly known as the Box Club.

“We can confirm that we conducted an operation,” an FBI spokesman in San Francisco told Reuters on Wednesday. “It is part of an ongoing investigation and we are unable to release any additional details at this point.” The US Department of Justice declined to comment. Container lines, which transport everything from TVs to bananas, have tried to save money by setting up alliances to pool their ships’ sailing schedules and port calls. Critics say this can lead to reduced services and increased prices for customers. The US inquiry follows ones by other jurisdictions including South Africa and the European Union. These have examined pricing practices by the sector, which is still struggling with its worst slump and has seen companies going to the wall due to a glut of ships and sluggish global economic growth. Such investigations could result in large fines at a time when the firms are still struggling to cut costs. In July last year, EU anti-trust regu-

Two banks pose a dilemma

Italy plans to test EU rules with Veneto banks bailout ROME/BRUSSELS, March 22, (RTRS): Italy’s plans to bail out two regional banks pose a dilemma for European regulators, who are still considering whether Monte dei Paschi qualifies for state aid, three months after giving a preliminary green light. Banca Popolare di Vicenza and Veneto Banca said on Friday they had requested a so-called precautionary recapitalisation by the state - a mechanism that exploits an exception to European rules meant to prevent the use of taxpayer money to save banks. Italy is already seeking to use the scheme for its fourth biggest bank, Monte dei Paschi, where the state is expected to inject 6.6 billion euros to fill an 8.8 billion euro capital shortfall. The rest of the money needed by the Tuscan bank is due to come from holders of its junior debt, but retail investors in its subordinated bonds will be compensated by the government, on the grounds that they were mis-sold the securities. Rome wants to replicate that framework to inject an estimated 5 billion euros in the two unlisted Veneto-based banks, already rescued last year, by government-sponsored, privately funded bank bailout fund Atlante. The government is keen to avoid imposing unpopular losses on tens of thousands of ordinary Italians who put their savings in the banks. It also wants to spare senior bond investors and big current account holders - who would otherwise have to take a hit under a strict interpretation of European bail-in rules. Those rules say state aid can be allowed on a temporary basis to banks that have failed regulatory stress tests but are still deemed solvent, if refusal would risk seriously disturbing the economy and financial stability of a member state.

Decided The European Central Bank decided not to disclose the outcome of stress tests on smaller banks — so there is a question mark over the Veneto banks’ exact state of health. The ECB will have to assess whether they are viable and determine the size of their capital shortfall, while the European Commission will decide whether Italy’s public support for the two banks is in line with EU state aid rules. Some analysts question whether the two banks can be considered systemic, given that their combined assets are around 70 billion euros - less than half Monte dei Paschi’s total. Two sources familiar with Italy’s position said Rome argues in private that the two banks’ failure would send shock waves through the wider Italian financial industry. It would

also boost anti-euro political forces such as the 5-Star Movement at the next national election, scheduled for 2018. The Italian treasury declined to comment. The ECB and the European Commission that governs the bloc are under pressure not to allow Italy to sidestep the rules, which critics say would undermine their credibility. Germany, the eurozone’s largest economy, raised concerns about the Monte dei Paschi plan in December. After weeks of negotiations, Italian Finance Minister Pier Carlo Padoan said on Tuesday there was no date set for a final decision by European regulators on whether it ticked all the boxes.

percent to 11,390 Danish crowns. South Korea’s Hanjin Shipping was declared bankrupt in February after it collapsed last year, sending sent shockwaves through the container industry. In September South African authorities raided some of the world’s biggest container lines on suspicion of colluding to inflate rates on shipping routes. The United States is concerned that the proposed alliances of several major companies, covering about 45 percent of all global shipping capacity, could lead to anti-competitive behaviour. This could slow global trade as about 90 percent of the world’s traded goods by volume and over 60 percent by value — $4 trillion — is transported by sea on container ships. The rest is on other vessels such as oil or gas tankers. Spokesmen for Maersk Line and Hapag Lloyd said that the subpoenas did not set out any specific allegations, adding that the companies would fully cooperate with authorities. MSC said several lines including itself received subpoenas last week from

in East Kalimantan, officials said on Wednesday, delaying ships waiting to load new supplies from the region’s mines. Police initially raided four port facilities, including the Samudra Sejahtera Stevedores Cooperative (Komura) office, a Transportation Ministry statement said, based on allegations of “blackmail, corruption, money laundering, and thuggery”. “We are cracking down on patterns linked to illegal fees,” Transportation Ministry spokesman J. A. Barata told Reuters.

the Department of Justice, declining further comment at this stage “due to the ongoing nature of the investigation”. OOCL and Evergreen also confirmed they were involved. “OOCL has received a subpoena from the Department of Justice Antitrust Division calling for the production of documents. OOCL intends to comply fully with the subpoena,” said Stephen Ng, OOCL Director of Trades. The Evergreen spokesman said: “We are cooperating with the authorities in this matter. Evergreen’s policy is to conduct business in compliance with applicable competition laws.” The Hapag Lloyd spokesman said its planned merger with United Arab Shipping Company would not be affected by the inquiry. The Justice Department has raised concerns over possible anti-competitive behaviour by container shippers with the US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) after shippers sought approval to form the Ocean and THE

alliances. The proposed Ocean Alliance involves CMA CGM with APL, China Cosco Shipping, Evergreen and Orient Overseas Container Lines while THE alliance is planned between Hapag Lloyd-UASC, Yang Ming Marine, Mitsui OSK Lines, Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha and NYK Lines. In a letter to the FMC in September, Renata Hesse, acting assistant attorney general in the Justice Department’s antitrust division, urged it to prohibit or insist on changes to the Ocean Alliance agreement. “The parties to the proposed agreement are seeking to undertake joint activities that are likely to reduce competition and also may be inconsistent” with the US shipping act, Hesse said in the letter, which was published on the Justice Department website. The Hong Kong Shippers’ Council, which represents manufacturers and exporters, said it welcomed the inquiry. “We look forward to hearing their result,” chairman Willy Lin said.

Protectionism may raise, not cut ‘trade deficits’, ECB study shows Italy wants G7 to reject temptation of protectionism FRANKFURT, March 22, (RTRS): Protectionist trade policies may increase, rather than reduce, a country’s trade deficit, the European Central Bank said in a study on Wednesday, just days after finance chiefs of the world’s top 20 economies dropped their pledge for open trade. Seeking to reduce a large trade deficit, Donald Trump’s US administration has proposed a series of protectionist measures, such as new import duties. The White House also wants to revisit some of its trade relationships, including with key partners Germany and China, which both sell more goods to the United

Request Asked whether the request for state aid by the Veneto banks was stretching EU rules, an EU source said overuse of the precautionary recapitalisation scheme could set an unhealthy precedent for countries seeking to avoid winding down weak banks. “If the instrument is used often, and therefore loses its extraordinary nature, as foreseen by the rules, that could be interpreted as an attempt to avoid banking resolution,” the source said. A European Commission spokesman said only that the commission had ongoing contacts with Italy over its banking sector. The ECB declined to comment. A further problem for the Veneto lenders is that government bailouts cannot cover losses already incurred or likely in the near future - such as those stemming from bad loan writedowns. In Italy, lenders are saddled with 360 billion euros of gross problematic debts, a third of the eurozone’s total. The market is pricing in doubts over whether the two Veneto banks fit the bill. Senior bonds in both lenders fell last week on concerns they could be hit should the state aid scheme not come to pass, although they partly rebounded this week. As neither bank has published full-year results for 2016, investors are in the dark about their real capital needs. Based on the latest available figures for the first half of last year, problematic loans at the two lenders after writedowns totalled 10.2 billion euros at end-June, almost double their combined equity capital of 5.7 billion euros. Last October the head of Atlante, which owns more than 97 percent of each bank, said their cost-income ratio stood at around 100 percent, a level which he said would make it impossible for any bank to stand on its feet.

Indonesia port graft probe disrupting coal shipments JAKARTA/SINGAPORE, March 22, (RTRS): Indonesia is cracking down on corruption and widespread graft at some of its top coal export hubs, disrupting shipments to destinations across Asia. Indonesia is the world’s top exporter of thermal coal, still the main feedstock for global power generation. Interruptions to coal’s output and shipment can impact seaborne prices of the fuel as well as wholesale electricity markets. The investigations that began on Friday are targeting port operations along the large anchorage area off Samarinda

lators accepted an offer from Maersk and 13 competitors to change their pricing practices in order to stave off possible fines. Previous inquiries by the US Justice Department had looked into price fixing within the shipping industry, which has resulted indictments of various executives. Sydbank analyst Morten Imsgard said such investigations had become “almost everyday life” in the shipping industry and lines had to take them seriously, given the risk of fines. “What can be severe is that every time authorities dig into this it might result in tighter regulation,” Imsgard said. “The industry needs co-operation and alliances. So, if a tightening of the possibilities to form partnerships across the industry makes it harder to consolidate, it will be more difficult to get a more profitable industry.” Shares in Hapag dropped 6 percent to 28.5 euros earlier on Wednesday, while Moller-Maersk shares declined 3

States than they buy from it. Indeed, the United States has already pulled out of the Trans-Pacific trade deal, asked for a review of the North American Free Trade Agreement and refused to reaffirm its pledge for open and free trade at the G20 meeting last weekend, raising fears that global trade will take a hit. Yet the authors of the ECB paper — published in its regular Economic Bulletin — believe the opposite recipe is needed. They said liberalising global trade and importing cheaper intermediate goods improves competitiveness, helping firms keep their cutting edge over international rivals and lifting the country’s exports. “Adopting policies that facilitate innovation and reduce protectionist barriers may help to improve an economy’s competitiveness,” the ECB paper said. “Multilateral initiatives aimed at trade and financial liberalisation may also reduce an economy’s external imbalances.” “Participating in global value chains may give an economy a temporary competitive edge that results — in order to smooth consumption over time — in a rise in its current account balance,” the ECB added. The study also appeared to dismiss the US administration’s claim that countries running big current account surpluses may be using unfair trade practices. Instead, it argued that countries will view their competitive edge as temporary, behaving with caution as they expect others to liberalise trade to improve their own efficiency and restore competitiveness. “As a consequence, in order to smooth consumption over time, part of the income gain in the domestic economy will be saved, which improves the current account balance,” the ECB added.

Consumpstion Workers prep poultry at the meatpacking company JBS, in Lapa, in the Brazilian state of Parana, on March 21. Brazil’s President said Tuesday that a scandal over sale of expired meat is an “economic embarrassment”. On Tuesday, Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety an-

nounced that it would temporarily suspend imports of frozen and chilled meat and poultry from Brazil, starting immediately, in response to Brazilian investigators charges that health inspectors were bribed to overlook the sale of expired meats. (AP)

Chinese supermarkets pull Brazil meat from shelves

‘Meat scandal is economic embarrassment’ SAO PAULO, March 22, (Agencies): President Michel Temer called Brazil’s scandal over the sale of expired meat an embarrassment Tuesday as more countries suspended some meat imports from the South American nation. On Tuesday, Hong Kong, Japan and Mexico announced that they were halting at least some Brazilian meat imports. They joined the European Union, China and Chile, dealing a major blow to the struggling economy of a country that is among the world’s largest exporters of meat. Temer sought to play down the scandal, calling it a “fuss” and noting that only three of the more than 4,000 meatpacking plants in Brazil had been forced to close. But he acknowledged the case has caused “an economic embarrassment for the country.” Brazilian investigators charge that health inspectors were bribed to overlook the sale of expired meats. Police also allege that the appearance and smell of expired meats was improved by using chemicals and cheaper products like water and manioc flour. Brazil’s trade associations for beef, pork and poultry producers warned that the scandal could have a big effect on employment and the economy because the sector’s exports represent 15 percent of total exports. Beyond that, cattle-raising is an integral part of Brazil’s culture, Sunday barbecues are a weekly rite, and country music from the grasslands is popular throughout Brazil. Gilberto Braga, a finance professor at Ibmec University in Rio de Janeiro, said the news might also feed an image of Brazil as a country where corruption is

rampant. Separate from the meat scandal, police and prosecutors are currently investigating massive corruption at the state oil company that has implicated dozens of executives and politicians. “First there is an impact on the image and credibility, which affects not only the protein producing sector, and that refers to beef, chicken, but is also a blow to the country’s image, as an organized and serious country,” said Braga. “It is a country that has in the last few years lived through matters of corruption involving authorities and state companies, and now the inspection is being suspected (of corruption).”

Concers So far, Brazil’s government has barred the exports of meats from 21 plants being investigated, but that has not fully allayed concerns of the countries it exports to. Sales for internal consumption in Brazil are not affected. On Tuesday, there was a new cascade of new suspensions. Japan said it would halt the import of Brazilian poultry as well as all other products from the meatpacking companies under investigation, according to a statement on the Japanese Embassy’s website. Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety said that it would temporarily suspend imports of frozen and chilled meat and poultry. Finally, Mexico’s Food Health Board announced it was suspending imports of Brazilian chicken and turkey meat. It said Mexico doesn’t buy beef or pork from Brazil. In beijing, some of China’s largest food suppliers have pulled Brazilian

beef and poultry from their shelves in the first concrete sign that a deepening scandal over Brazil’s meat processing industry is hitting business in its top export market. The moves by Sun Art Retail Group, China’s biggest hypermarket chain, and the Chinese arms of global retail giants Wal-Mart Stores Inc and Metro AG come days after China temporarily suspended Brazilian meat imports. Safety fears over Brazilian meat have grown since police accused inspectors in the world’s biggest exporter of beef and poultry of taking bribes to allow sales of rotten and salmonella-tainted meats. A spokeswoman for Sun Art Retail, which operates 400 Chinese hypermarkets, said on Wednesday the chain had removed beef supplied by top Brazilian exporters BRF SA and JBS SA from its shelves from Monday. Brazilian beef accounts for less than 10 percent of Sun Art’s beef supply, she said. Wal-Mart has also removed Brazilian meat products from its stores, a person familiar with the matter said. He declined to be quoted because of the sensitivity of the matter. Germany’s Metro has withdrawn Brazilian chicken legs and wings from its Chinese stores, said a manager, who declined to be named as he was not allowed to speak to media. The retailer, with 84 stores in China, does not sell Brazilian beef. JD.com, one of China’s biggest online retailers, said in an emailed statement it had also removed all listings for imported Brazilian meat and is reviewing orders in process.

It added that if the advantage is perceived as permanent, then the current account balance is likely to deteriorate as consumption and imports rise to match what income levels. Meanwhile, Italian Prime Minister Paolo Gentiloni said on Tuesday that he wants to send a strong message in favour of free trade when he welcomes US President Donald Trump and other world leaders in Italy in May. Italy hosts the annual meeting of seven of the world’s biggest industrialised economies (G7) in the town of Taormina in Sicily on May 26-27. It will be Trump’s first scheduled trip to Europe. Trump brandished strong protectionist rhetoric during his “America First” election campaign, saying it was necessary to save jobs. He has already pulled out of a key Pacific trade agreement and proposed a new tax on imports, arguing that certain trade relationships need to be reworked to make them fairer for US workers. “It’s our hope that the G-7 in Taormina will send a message about the importance of international trade and against every protectionist temptation,” Gentiloni said after meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Rome. “Japan and Europe must collaborate with the United States to continue to hold high the free-trade flag,” Abe said. As well as Japan, Italy and the United States, the G7 comprises Britain, France, Canada and Germany. Gentiloni and Abe also called for a free trade deal to be reached quickly between Japan and the European Union. Earlier this week, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Abe made similar comments after meeting in Germany. After meeting Merkel in Washington last week, Trump said he did not believe in isolationism but that trade policy must be more fair.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

BUSINESS

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Morocco cbank holds rates Morocco’s central bank said on Tuesday it was holding its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 2.25 percent and that it expects economic growth to reach 4.3 percent, up from 1.1 percent last year, due to a recovery in agricultural output. Agriculture accounts for about 15 percent of Morocco’s economy, and the bank said the sector’s contribution to growth would be 11.5 percent, rising from 9.6 percent last year. It said it expects cereal production to reach 7.8 million tonnes. Morocco has been suffering its worst harvests in decades. (RTRS)

Name: Kuwait Sharia Compatible Indices

Providers: Al Madar Finance & Investment Co.

Description: Index of Sharia compatible companies traded on the KSE

Website: www.almadar-fi.com

Index name Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Composite Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Kuwait Only Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Active Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Banking Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Investment Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Insurance Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Real Estate Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Industrial Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Services Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Food Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Islamic Sector Kuwait Sharia Compatible Index - Non Kuwaiti Sector Kuwait Stock Exchange Index - Price S&P 500 DJ Islamic Index.

Bloomberg ticker AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC AMIC KWSEIDX SPX DJIM

Today’s value as of March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 22, 2017 March 21, 2017 March 21, 2017

Today’s closing value 185.02 175.63 100.39 298.64 59.35 24.08 54.06 150.96 209.19 368.04 148.74 573.60 6,881.20 2,373.47 3,135.04

Prev closing value 185.43 176.00 100.57 301.31 59.06 23.70 54.38 150.60 208.40 367.94 149.93 575.49 6,868.83 2,378.25 3,132.78

% change -0.22% -0.21% -0.18% -0.89% 0.49% 1.60% -0.59% 0.24% 0.38% 0.03% -0.79% -0.33% 0.18% -0.20% 0.07%

1-week change 1.19% 1.30% 2.00% 0.37% 2.32% 1.77% 0.75% -0.16% 4.08% -3.46% 0.24% -0.56% 1.34% 0.00% 1.12%

3-month change 11.06% 9.85% 27.75% 12.66% 26.42% 53.86% 11.42% 24.15% 5.34% -3.22% 15.86% 35.33% 21.31% 4.52% 7.32%

YTD change 10.87% 9.90% 26.49% 12.21% 26.34% 52.74% 10.90% 24.55% 5.96% -3.18% 15.29% 29.38% 19.71% 6.01% 7.86%

12-month change 20.47% 17.60% 49.93% 18.98% 38.00% 34.23% 13.12% 26.95% 17.32% 4.98% 27.52% 101.67% 30.93% 15.80% 12.18%

24-month change -5.72% -8.75% 8.07% -16.17% -12.14% -11.93% -7.52% 5.22% -4.86% -13.01% -5.81% 125.58% 6.93% 12.59% 5.12%

Fears of US sanctions mean banks still largely shun Tehran

India tries to fix Iran trade payment as Trump hardens line NEW DELHI, March 22, (RTRS): India is exploring setting up a new payments mechanism for trade with Iran, after its old sanctions workaround broke down, as state banks remain fearful of handling payments from Tehran in case the United States imposes a fresh financial embargo. US President Donald Trump has denounced an agreement between Iran and major powers on its nuclear programme as a bad deal, and his administration has put Tehran “on notice” after the test-firing of a ballistic missile. Under previous Western sanctions, India had devised a barter-like scheme acceptable to Washington that allowed it to make some oil payments to Tehran in rupees through a small state bank, UCO Bank. Indian companies were then able to receive payments for goods exported to Iran using the oil money held in non-convertible rupee balances at

UCO, maintaining a trade lifeline between two countries with long historical ties. But since sanctions were partly lifted early last year the rupee account has been run down by more than 90 percent to just 20 billion rupees ($305 million) because Indian refiners have resumed paying for Iranian oil in euros. Whilst the federal government and central bank have approved oil payments in euros — which Iran prefers because the currency is readily convertible — they have not given the all-clear for trade in the opposite direction to be settled in other currencies, leaving exporters stuck. “We are working on a mechanism through euros and looking for a common correspondent bank in Europe to act as an intermediary for India and Iran,” said R.K. Takkar, chairman of UCO Bank. “The euro payment system has not

yet crystallised,” he said, adding the government was working to find a solution. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said some Iranian banks had applied to open branches in India, but gave no indication when it might approve settlement of trade with Iran in currencies other than the rupee. “Due to the geopolitical situation around Iran, and international sanctions-related measures, correspondent banking relationships are difficult,” the central bank said in a written reply to questions submitted by Reuters. “The Reserve Bank has facilitated payment for Indian exporters by permitting special arrangements for rupee-based settlements.” Although European Union and United Nations sanctions against Iran have been removed some US measures remain, and that, along with the hard line promised by the new administration in Washington, has left the coun-

Japan logs biggest trade surplus since 2010 in Feb Exports to China surged by 28% TOKYO, March 22, (AP): Japan logged its biggest monthly trade surplus since 2010 in February, as exports to China surged by 28 percent from a year earlier. Preliminary customs data released Wednesday show overall exports rose 11 percent to 6.35 trillion yen ($56 billion) and imports edged up 1 percent to 5.5 trillion yen ($49 billion). The resulting trade surplus of 813.4 billion yen ($7.3 billion) for the month was more than double that of a year earlier. Weaker oil prices and a stronger yen also reduced costs for imported gas and oil needed to fuel the economy, analysts said. “The upshot is that net trade should have continued to support growth this quarter,” Marcel Thieliant of Capital Economics said in a commentary. The month’s biggest year-onyear gains were in exports of

In this file photo, a cargo is loaded onto a freight vessel at the pier of a container terminal in Tokyo. Japan reports it logged its biggest monthly trade surplus since 2010 in February, as exports to China surged by 28 percent. Preliminary customs data released on March 22, show overall exports rose 11 percent and imports edged up 1 percent. (AP)

machinery and electronic components, likely reflecting improved manufacturing in China. But exports to many other Asian countries also rose at double-digit paces, with Japan’s overall trade surplus in the region

more than quadrupling to 996 billion yen ($8.9 billion). Exports to the US rose 0.4 percent, to 1.2 trillion yen ($11 billion) and imports fell slightly, for a surplus of 611 billion yen ($5.5 billion).

try still largely shut out of the global financial system as banks steer clear of its business. As tensions grow, New Delhi and Tehran are considering reverting to the old rupee mechanism that was viewed as a safe bet because UCO has no US exposure that could lead it to fall foul of any new sanctions. Iran has agreed in principle to accept some oil payments in rupees to fund imports from India worth an estimated $2.5 billion a year, a senior commerce ministry official told Reuters. No timeline has been fixed as yet to implement the new mechanism, however, as both sides await the outcome of Iran’s presidential election in May and seek clarity on the Trump administration’s approach towards Tehran, he said. The payment woes have hit the revenues of Indian exporters as they struggle to complete deals struck when

the rupee account was flush with funds. Several containers from India are held up at Iranian ports, exporters said. “Our clients are threatening to cancel orders and procure from China,” said Jayanti Goela at Gas Lab Asia, a Delhi-based exporter that had won an order to supply gas storage tanks to Tehran. India’s major exports to Iran include food, chemicals, engineering products, garments and drugs. The reticence of Indian banks with US exposure has also slowed work on the Iranian port of Chabahar and a $1.6 billion rail link backed by New Delhi that would bypass arch-rival Pakistan and counter China’s growing influence in the region. One official involved in the Chabahar project said contractors, concerned about getting paid, were now reluctant to supply equipment and materials for the Arabian Sea port

whose completion is planned for 2018. “If Trump imposes more sanctions on Iran, we may have to wind up most of our plans,” the official said. Foreign minister Sushma Swaraj told parliament recently that Iran had yet to ratify a trilateral pact to set up the transit corridor to Afghanistan that was signed on a visit last year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “The government is still in a waitand-watch mode and closely monitoring Trump’s approach towards Iran,” said a senior official who joined Modi on his trip to Iran. India, Iran’s top oil client after China, boosted exports to Tehran during sanctions as Western nations boycotted it. Yet India has lost out since the lifting of sanctions, with its exports to Iran declining to $2.4 billion in 2016 from $3.2 billion in the previous year.

Move aimed at boosting investment

India curbs cash transactions NEW DELHI, March 22, (RTRS): India’s lower house of parliament on Wednesday approved a ban on cash transactions above 200,000 rupees ($3,055), enacting tax measures from last month annual budget aimed at boosting investment in the country. After scrapping high-value currency notes in November, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is pushing a raft of measures to boost cashless transactions and curb tax evasion. The lowering of the cap on cash transactions was among some 40 amendments introduced by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Tuesday. These will be effective after a customary approval by the upper house of parliament and the president. Following are the highlights of the Finance bill: The bill lowers the maximum size of cash transactions to 200,000 rupees from 300,000 rupees, proposed earlier in the budget. Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia tweeted that anyone who accepts cash transactions above that limit will face a penalty. It is not clear whether the fine will be equal to the entire transaction value or will be equal to the amount exceeding the permissible limit. In November, Modi decided to scrap high-value currency notes of 500 and 1,000 rupees, accounting for 86 percent of the cash in circulation. The bill makes it mandatory for income tax returns to be filed along with Aadhaar — a 12-digit identity number issued to more than 1 billion people. The government has already decided to link payouts

such as welfare benefits to the Aadhaar database as a means to rein in fraud and corruption. ■ Electoral bonds: The government proposes incentives for political donations to be paid through digital payments and cheques as part of its efforts to clean up funding in Indian politics. Cash donations have been capped at 2,000 rupees. The central bank will be able to authorise smaller banks to issue electoral bonds — which can be bought by cheque or digital payments — for funding political parties and election campaigns. ■ Lowering tax: Corporate tax has been cut by 5 percent to 25 percent for small firms with annual turnover of up to 500 million rupees to boost investment. The rate of personal income tax on annual incomes of 250,000 to 500,000 rupees is lowered to 5 percent from 10 percent. A 15 percent surcharge will be imposed on tax on annual income of over 1 million rupees. ■ Private investment: The bill proposes tax exemptions for real estate developers if they complete their projects in five years — up from the previous three years. The Finance Bill will exempt start-ups from paying income tax for any three consecutive years out of initial seven years after incorporation.

Li chokes up as he reflects on HK economy HONG KONG, March 22, (AP): Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing had an emotional moment Wednesday as he reflected on the weak state of the financial hub’s economy. The 88-year-old tycoon appeared to get choked up as he spoke at a news conference following the release of his

company’s annual results. “I love Hong Kong. I don’t want to see Hong Kong ...” Li said, trailing off. He took a long pause to compose himself before adding, “The Hong Kong we used to be proud of, today our GDP has fallen to 2 percent or so

of China. Why can’t we do better?” Li said he had a cold and wasn’t on the verge of tears. He added that he was feeling emotional as he thought about his 67 years working in Hong Kong. Li, who turns 89 in July, quit school at the age of 12 to work in a factory.

investment funds Funds Fund Manager Valuation Valued date Currency Net Asset Prev NAV Prev NAV Dated Value (NAV) ————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

National Bank of Kuwait Money Market Funds

Watani KD Money Market Fund II NBK Capital Weekly Jan 17, 2017 KD 1.022 1.021 Nov 29, 2016 Watani USD Money Market Fund NBK Global Asset Management Co. Ltd. Weekly Jan 17, 2017 USD 10.182 10.160 Nov 22, 2016 Watani KD Money Market Fund (Acc to Islamic Shariah principles) II NBK Global Asset Management Co. Ltd. Weekly Jan 17, 2017 KD 1.020 1.019 Nov 22, 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Gulf Bank Al Basha’er GCC Equity Fund Kwt. Fin. & Inv. Co. & Gulf Fin. House Monthly Feb 28, 2017 USD 7.070 7.082 Jan 31, 2017 Coast Fund Coast Investment & Dev. Co. Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.672 0.652 Jan 31, 2017 Sanaya Dow Jones Kuwait Index Fund Industrial & Financial Investment Co. Weekly Jan 26, 2017 KD 0.561 0.561 Dec 30, 2016 Markaz Capital Preservation Program 1 Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.912 0.917 Dec 31, 2016 Markaz Capital Preservation Program 2 Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.942 0.940 Dec 31, 2016 Markaz Gulf Real Estate Fund Bi-annual Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.417 1.418 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Al Ahli Bank Al Ahli Gulf Fund Al Ahli Bank Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.893 0.892 Jan 31, 2017 Al Ahli Kuwaiti Fund Al Ahli Bank Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.818 0.824 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Burgan Bank Burgan Equity Fund Burgan Bank Monthly Feb 26, 2017 KD 1.794 1.821 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Funds Fund Manager Valuation Valued date Currency Net Asset Prev NAV Prev NAV Dated Value (NAV) ———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— Equity Funds Al-Mamoun Fund A Global Weekly March 9, 2017 KD 0.647 0.639 Feb 23, 2017 Al-Mamoun Fund B Global Weekly March 9, 2017 KD 0.647 0.639 Feb 23, 2017 GCC Large Cap Fund Global Bi-weekly March 7, 2017 USD 144.080 145.550 Feb 21, 2017 Al-Noor Fund Global Bi-weekly Jan 31, 2017 SAR 197.090 197.090 Jan 24, 2017 Global Saudi Equity Fund Global Bi-weekly March 7, 2017 SAR 206.020 206.640 Feb 21, 2017 Money Market Funds Global Money Market Fund Global Weekly Nov 20, 2016 USD 1.160 Sectoral Funds EPADI Fund Global Weekly March 7, 2017 USD 107.850 108.410 Feb 21, 2017 Islamic Funds Global GCC Islamic Fund Global Weekly March 7, 2017 USD 98.670 99.100 Feb 21, 2017 Al-Durra Islamic Fund Global Monthly March 9, 2017 KD 1.182 1.186 Feb 23, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Kuwait Finance & Investment Co (KFIC) Al Wasm Fund KFIC Weekly March 16, 2017 KD 0.420 0.421 Feb 15, 2017 Al Basha’er GCC Equity Fund KFIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 USD 7.073 6.853 Dec 31, 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

KAMCO KAMCO Investment Fund KAMCO Monthly Jan 31, 2017 KD 1.065 0.889 Nov 30, 2016 KAMCO GCC Opportunities Fund KAMCO Monthly July 31, 2016 USD 115.890 114.380 Feb 29, 2016 KAMCO MENA Plus Fixed Income Fund KAMCO Jan 31, 2017 USD 12.551 10.260 Dec 31, 2016 KAMCO Real Estate Yield Fund KAMCO Jan 31, 2017 USD 10.220 10.270 Dec 30, 2016 Kuwait Education Fund KAMCO Quartely Sept 30, 2016 KD 1.457 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Wafra International Investment Co.

Boubyan KD Money Market Fund Boubyan Bank Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.061 1.061 Feb 21, 2017 Boubyan KD Money Market Fund II Boubyan Bank Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.006 1.006 Feb 21, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Wafra Equity Fund Wafra Co. Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.902 0.911 Jan 31, 2017 Wafra Bond Fund Wafra Co. Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.034 1.032 Jan 31, 2017 Masaref Investment Fund ISKAN Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.816 0.817 Jan 31, 2017 Fajir Islamic Fund Wafra Co. Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.675 0.695 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Boubyan Capital Investment Co.

Shuaa Capital Co.

Boubyan USD Liquidity Fund Boubyan Capital Investment Co Feb 28, 2017 USD 10.180 10.180 Feb 21, 2017 Boubyan Multi-Asset Holding Fund Boubyan Bank Feb 28, 2017 USD 10.250 10.125 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Emirates Gateway Fund Shuaa Capital Weekly Feb 7, 2017 AED 15.110 15.070 Jan 31, 2017 The Arab Gateway Fund Shuaa Capital Weekly Feb 7, 2017 USD 28.160 29.040 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Kuwait Investment Co.

Al Aman Investment

Local Fund

Al Aman Islamic Fund Al Aman Investment Weekly Dec 31, 2016 KD 0.342 0.322 Nov 1, 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Boubyan Bank

Al Raed Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly March 16, 2017 KD 1.001 0.998 March 9, 2017 Kuwait Investment Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.695 0.696 Jan 31, 2017 Al Hilal Fund Kuwait Investment Co Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.541 0.541 Feb 13, 2017 Al Atheer Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.089 1.112 Jan 31, 2017 International Global Bond Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly March 15, 2017 USD 24.210 24.250 March 8, 2017 Diversified Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly March 15, 2017 USD 18.530 18.310 March 8, 2017 European Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly Jan 31, 2017 Euro 19.890 19.820 Dec 30, 2016 Pacific Equity Fund Kuwait Investment Co Weekly March 15, 2017 USD 29.200 28.860 March 8, 2017 North American Equity Fund Kuwait Investment Co Tw. Monthly Feb 28, 2017 USD 18.100 17.570 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

National Investment Co. (NIC) Al-Wataniya Fund NIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.613 0.630 Jan 31, 2017 Al-Darij Fund NIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.355 0.361 Jan 31, 2017 Mawarid Fund NIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.513 0.515 Jan 31, 2017 Zajil Fund NIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.744 0.749 Jan 31, 2017 Al Mada Investment Fund NIC Weekly Feb 28, 2017 USD 0.773 0.779 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz) Mumtaz Fund Kuwait Financial Center Weekly March 9, 2017 KD 4.023 4.030 Feb 23, 2017 MIDAF Kuwait Financial Center Weekly March 9, 2017 KD 3.075 3.076 Feb 23, 2017 Islamic Fund Kuwait Financial Center Weekly March 9, 2017 KD 1.565 1.576 Feb 23, 2017 Markaz Arabian Fund Kuwait Financial Center Weekly Nov 10, 2016 KD 2.990 2.920 Nov 3, 2016 FORSA Financial Fund Kuwait Financial Center Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.972 0.996 Jan 31, 2017 Real Estate Fund Kuwait Financial Center Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.412 1.419 Jan 31, 2017 Markaz Fixed Income Fund Kuwait Financial Center Monthly March 9, 2017 USD 11.470 11.480 Feb 23, 2017 Mawazeen International Fund Kuwait Financial Center Weekly March 12, 2017 USD 9.070 9.160 Feb 27, 2017 Markaz MENA Islamic Fund Kuwait Financial Center Weekly Feb 28, 2017 USD 10.720 10.830 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Kuwait & Middle East Financial & Inv. Co.

Tharwa Investment Co. Tharwa Investment Fund Tharwa Investment Co Weekly March 13, 2017 KD 1.379 1.406 Dec 31, 2016 Tharwa Arab Investment Fund Tharwa Investment Co Bi-weekly July 31, 2016 USD 1.977 2.251 June 30, 2016 Tharwa World Fund Tharwa Investment Co Monthly March 31, 2016 USD 1.024 0.986 March 15, 2016 Tharwa Islamic Fund Tharwa Investment Co Monthly March 13, 2017 KD 0.571 0.590 Dec 31, 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Bank Al-Bilad Al Seef Fund Bank Al-Bilad Daily March 15, 2017 KD 0.422 0.415 March 1, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Commercial International Bank CIB Money Market Fund (Osoul) CI Asset Management Weekly March 20, 2017 EGP 285.120 284.650 March 15, 2017 CIB II Equity (Isthethmar) CI Asset Management Weekly March 20, 2017 EGP 141.220 137.830 March 15, 2017 CIB and Faisal Islamic Al Aman CI Asset Management Weekly March 20, 2017 EGP 80.430 78.090 March 15, 2017 Hemaya CI Asset Management Weekly March 1, 2017 EGP 169.020 168.910 Feb 1, 2017 Thabat CI Asset Management Weekly March 20, 2017 EGP 168.350 168.050 March 15, 2017 Takamol CI Asset Management Weekly March 19, 2017 EGP 137.190 135.280 March 12, 2017 Misr El Mostakbel CI Asset Management Weekly March 20, 2017 EGP 24.740 24.800 March 15, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Noor Financial Investment Co. Noor Islamic Fund Noor Financial Investment Co Monthly Feb 29, 2016 KD 0.613 0.645 Dec 31, 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Al Zumorroda Investment Co. Zumorroda GCC Fund Al Zumorroda Investment Co Monthly Jan 31, 2016 KD 0.481 0.543 Dec 31, 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

KFH Capital Investment Co.

Al Rou’yah Fund KMEFIC Monthly Feb 28, 2017 KD 1.414 1.434 Jan 31, 2017 Gulf Gate Fund KMEFIC Monthly Oct 31, 2016 KD 0.944 0.918 Sept 30, 2016 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Muthanna Islamic Index Fund (MUDX) KFH Capital Investment Company Daily Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.357 0.354 Jan 31, 2017 Muthanna GCC Islamic Banks Fund KFH Capital Investment Company Daily Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.683 0.673 Jan 31, 2017 Baitak GCC Fund KFH Capital Investment Company Weekly Feb 28, 2017 KD 0.916 0.957 Jan 31, 2017 ——————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Global Investment House

CapCorp Investment Co.

Index Funds

GCC Large Cap Index Fund

Global

Weekly

March 9, 2017

KD

1.183

1.186

Feb 23, 2017

CapCorp Local Fund

CapCorp Investment Company

Weekly

Feb 28, 2017

KD

0.941

0.962

Jan 31, 2017

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

BUSINESS

35

EBRD expects to start operating in Lebanon in Q2 The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development expects to begin operating in Lebanon in the second quarter of 2017, nearly two years after the country applied for membership, a senior EBRD official said on Tuesday. Lebanon has seen refugees flood across its border to escape the war in Syria, putting a heavy strain on resources in a country already struggling to overcome

internal divisions and long periods of political paralysis. It applied in July 2015 to become a member of the EBRD, saying that the bank’s support would help it boost sustainable growth and strengthen the economy. “Lebanon will probably become a country of operation by the time of our annual meeting in Cyprus in May. The move has already been approved by the Lebanese parliament. The next step is they need to pay for

membership shares,” Janet Heckman, the new EBRD managing director for the southern and eastern Mediterranean, told Reuters in Cairo. “Lebanon has a very dynamic private sector.” Established in 1991 after the collapse of communism in eastern Europe, the EBRD’s goal is to support market economies and the development of the private sector. (RTRS)

Kuwait breaks 7,000 pts mark amid volume slide NAPESCO jumps 40 fils; NBK retreats By John Mathews Arab Times Staff

KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Kuwait stocks swung sharply higher to breach the 7,000 pts mark on Wednesday. The bourse, after a tame start, soared 138.98 points to 7,020.18 pts extending the gains to sixth consecutive day. The banks and other heavyweights were mostly subdued whereas some of the mid-caps notched robust gains. The KSX 15 benchmark dropped 10.42 pts to 956.63 pts taking the month’s losses to 8 pts while weighted index slipped 2.54 pts. The volume turnover meanwhile shrank further after Tuesday’s drop. 335 million shares changed hands — a 16.17 pct fall from Tuesday. The sectors closed mixed. Industrials outshone the rest with a whopping 8.2 pct gain whereas banks shed 0.61 percent, the worst performer of the day. In terms of volume, real estate topped with 40.9 percent and financial services stood close behind with 39.6 pct contribution. Among the day’s prime movers, NAPESCO jumped 40 fils to KD 1.260 while EYAS soared 80 fils. Educational Holding Group climbed 25 fils extending the last session’s gains while Mabanee Co was up 10 fils at 860 fils recouping Tuesday’s drop. Zain fell 5 fils to 460 fils and is down 20 fils so far during the month while Wataniya Telecom (Ooredoo) stood pat at KD 1.180 with thin trading. Kuwait Telecommunications Co (VIVA) rose 10 fils and Agility followed suit to wind up at 630 fils. National Bank of Kuwait dipped 30 fils to 730 fils after trading 3.7 million shares whereas Kuwait Finance House closed flat. KFH has registered a fourth quarter net profit of KD 42.13 million and KD 165.23 million during the 2016 fiscal year. The market opened on a tame note and drifted into red in early trade. The price index slipped further to plumb the day’s lowest level of 6,844.49 pts half-way into the session and clawed back into green. It rose sharply thereafter to peak at 7,021.9 pts and closed with strong gains. Top gainer of the day, NCCI spiked

by a whopping 70 pct to 85 fils while EYAS soared 23.8 percent to stand next. KCPC slid 6.25 percent, the steepest decliner of the day and Aayan topped the volume with over 35 million shares. Despite the day’s strong gains, the losers outnumbered the winners. 44 stocks advanced whereas 53 closed lower. Of the 141 counters active on Wednesday, 44 closed flat. 6,472 deals worth KD 25.86 million were transacted — a 23.32 pct drop in value from the day before. National Industries Group fell 4 fils to 132 fils with a volume of 1.2 million shares while Gulf Cable gave up 5 fils before settling at 490 fils. Metal and Recycling Co was flat at 72 fils and ACICO Industries followed suit. Kuwait Cement Co rose 5 fils to 490 fils and Kuwait Portland Cement Co paused at KD 1.080. Heavy Engineering Industries and Shipbuilding Co clipped 2 fils and NCCI jumped 35 fils. Hilal Cement Co and NICBM gained 10 fils each while Al Qurain Petrochemical Co added 5 fils.

Shares ALAFCO took in 2 fils and Jazeera Airways was down 10 fils at 580 fils. Zimah Holding stalled at 56 fils and Mezzan Holding shed 20 fils. Kuwait and Gulf Link Transport Co took in 2 fils on back of over 4 million shares and KGL Logistics rallied 5 fils to 79 fils. Kuwait Foundry Co fell 5 fils to 310 fils and Boubyan Petrochemical Co dipped 10 fils. Equipment Holding Co dialed up 1 fil and KCPC dipped 10 fils to 150 fils. KPPC added 2 fils on back of 4.8 million shares. Burgan Well Drilling Co and Combined Group Co rose 5 fils each whereas UPAC was unchanged at 790 fils. YIACO Medical and Al Rai Media Group too did not budge from their earlier close of 275 fils and 178 fils respectively. In the banking sector, Burgan Bank and Gulf Bank were unchanged at 330 fils and 248 fils while Ahli United Bank gave up 5 fils to close at 450 fils. Commercial Bank and Al Ahli Bank were not traded during the session. Boubyan Bank stagnated at 425 fils after seesawing narrowly earlier in the day while Kuwait International Bank dialed up 2 fils. Warba Bank was down 5 fils at 265 fils. KIPCO and National Investment Co were flat at 485 fils and 118 fils respectively whereas Kuwait Investment Co took in 2 fils. International Financial Advisors added 2.5 fils on back of 14.8 million shares and Arzan inched 0.5 fils higher to 42 fils.

Kuwait Financial Centre ( Markaz) and Osoul Investment Co were flat at 106 fils and 69 fils respectively while Noor Financial Investment Co inched 1 fil into green. Sokouk Holding took in 2 fils on back of 22.7 million shares. KFIC was up 2 fils at 44 fils whereas Securities House Co and Securities Group Co paused at 53 fils and 99 fils respectively. Al Mal eased 0.5 fil to 21 fils and Ektittab Holding stalled at 42 fils. National Real Estate Co and Salhiya Real Estate Co stood pat at 106 fils and 375 fils respectively whereas United Real Estate Co clipped 1 fil. Tamdeen Real Estate Co slipped 5 fils and Mazaya Holding closed 2 fils lower. The market has been upbeat so far during the week and has rallied 208 points in last four sessions. It has soared 235 points from start of the month and is trading 22.3 pct higher year-to-date. KSE, with 208 listed companies, is the second largest bourse in the region. In the bourse related news, Al Mazaya Holding net profits soared 31.7 pct to KD 2.59 million in last quarter of 2016 while profits rose 10 pct to KD 10.25 million during the fiscal year of 2016. The board has recommended an annual cash dividend of 8% or 8 fls per share. Gulf Glass Manufacturing Co’s fourth quarter net profit dipped o 64% in KD 14,000 from KD 39,000 in same period last year. During the fiscal year of 2016, profits was down 48 percent to KD 1.21 million from KD 2.34 mln in the previous year. Al Mowasat Health Care has posted KD 1.8 million profits during the fourth quarter of 2016 and for the fiscal year of 2016, earnings rose 35.3 pct to KD 4.52 million from the year before. The board of directors has recommended a dividend payout of 20% or 20 fils per share. Injazzat Real Estate Development has posted a net profit of KD 550,000 in the last quarter of 2016 and during the fiscal year of 2016, the bank earned KD 3.2 million. The board has recommended a cash dividend of 5% or 5 fils per share for FY 2016. Ajial Real Estate Entertainment Company (AREEC) net losses narrowed by 22.7 pct to KD 888,620 from KD 1.15 million in Q4 of 2115. The annual profits in 2016 clocked KD 1.5 million and the board has recommended the distribution of cash dividends at 5% of capital.

Mideast Stocks Abu Dhabi, Qatar retreat on profit-booking

Gulf bourses weighed by oil drop DUBAI, March 22, (RTRS): Major stock markets in the Middle East fell on Wednesday, following international bourses lower as crude oil prices traded down near $50 a barrel, but Kuwait jumped in heavy trading by local retail investors. The Saudi Arabian index lost 1.2 percent in low turnover, with all but one of the 14 petrochemicals makers falling by at least 1 percent and bellwether Saudi Basic Industries dropping 1 percent. Insurer Gulf Union was down 3.2 percent after its board recommended reducing its share capital to 150 million riyals ($40 million) from 220 million riyals by cancelling 7 million shares. In recent days several small insurance companies have announced plans to reduce losses and improve their capital structures by reducing share capital. However, many investors expect tough competition in the sector to drive merger activity in the near future and are exiting positions until there is more clarity. Supermarket operator Al Othaim declined by 0.7 percent after its board recommended a cash dividend of 2 riyals per share for 2016. The payout was more than the previous year’s but short of market expectations. Analysts at NCB Capital had forecast a dividend of 2.3 riyals. Construction company Jabal Omar, meanwhile, rose 1.5 percent after the company said it had signed an agreement to sell three hotels and a mall to a real estate fund for 6 billion riyals ($1.6 billion). The company will then lease and operate the assets, using the proceeds to reduce outstanding loans and finance other projects.

Jabal Omar also said it had extended a bridging loan with a local lender, Bank Albilad, for four years, attributing the longer term to improvement in the company’s liquidity position. It did not give the size of the loan. Dubai’s index fell by 0.6 percent. Builder Arabtec , the most heavily traded stock, dropped by 0.7 percent and Dubai Financial Market, the only listed exchange in the Gulf, lost 2.3 percent. In Abu Dhabi, the index retreated 0.7 percent, weighed down by profittaking in some of the blue-chip stocks that had risen in the previous session. Real estate developer Aldar Properties retreated by 0.8 percent and Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank was down 1.3 percent. In Cairo, the blue chip index fell 0.2 percent in thin trade as three fifths of traded shares declined. Sidi Kerir Petrochemicals lost 1.3 percent. In stark contrast to the rest of the region, Kuwait’s main index jumped by 2 percent, with most trade focusing on small and mid-sized companies favoured by short-term investors. Construction materials provider National Industries rose by 5 percent. The index is now up 22 percent since the start of the year, outperforming regional benchmarks by a large margin and outpacing the MSCI Emerging Market Index. Kunal Damle, senior institutional broker at SICO Bahrain, said the Kuwaiti market had been overlooked for the past four years and was now benefiting from government austerity measures that have been less stringent than those neighbouring Gulf countries over the past two years.

A Doha-based asset manager, however, said he saw no fundamental justification for the surge in Kuwait’s index, which he described as highly speculative. “Most of the volume is coming from retail investors who come into the market to turn a quick profit and leave. This is not the characteristic of a stable rally,” he added. The manager said that Kuwait is not cheap in terms of price-to-earnings ratios. “I think the market will witness a huge correction before the summer,” he said.

Saudi Arabia ■ The index fell 1.2 percent to 6,832 points.

Dubai ■ The index was down 0.6 percent at 3,475 points.

Abu Dhabi ■ The index lost 0.7 percent to 4,482 points.

Qatar ■ The index declined 0.9 percent to 10,396 points.

Kuwait ■ The index rose 2.0 percent to 7,020 points.

Egypt ■ The index edged down 0.2 percent to 12,879 points.

Oman ■ The index lost 0.2 percent to 5,618 points.

Bahrain ■ The index was up 0.1 percent at 1,367 points.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

BUSINESS

36

Tencent reports profit of nearly $6 bln Chinese social media giant Tencent says that more than 20 million people paid for video content on its websites last year, reflecting a growing acceptance of transactional and subscription models in a country where advertising-supported VoD has been dominant. The number was included in Tencent’s 2016 financial report, which was published Wednesday after the close of the Hong Kong stock exchange. The

the

group’s massively popular QQ and WeChat (aka Weixin) messaging platforms are driving users in the world’s most populous nation to Tencent’s music, video, games and literature services. “Our video service ranked first in China in terms of mobile video views. The number of paying users exceeded 20 million, more than tripled. During the year, we gained initial success in original content with popular titles such

bottomline

DUBAI: Oil giant Saudi Aramco is starting on Wednesday a series of fixed income investor meetings ahead of its first riyal-denominated sukuk issue, banking sources told Reuters. There was no indication on the planned size of the debt sale in the notification which Aramco sent to investors, the sources said. Bankers told Reuters in February that they expected a deal of roughly 3 to 6 billion riyals ($805 million to $1.6 billion). The sukuk could be issued as early as next week, the sources said on Wednesday. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ RIYADH: An Islamic Development Bank official said on Wednesday that the bank’s upcoming US dollar sukuk issue would be in the range of previous issues, between $1 billion and $1.5 billion. The bank is still in the process of speaking with advisers, Mohamed Hedi Mejai, director of enterprise development at the IDB, told a news conference in Riyadh. He did not elaborate on a time frame for the issue. Banking sources told Reuters on Monday that the IDB had appointed eight banks to lead the transaction, including Emirates NBD, Goldman Sachs, Gulf International Bank, HSBC and Standard Chartered. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

ISTANBUL: Shares in Turkish Airlines, budget airline Pegasus and airports operator TAV fell on Wednesday after the United States and Britain imposed restrictions on carryon electronic devices on flights from destinations including Turkey. Turkish Airlines was down 2.26 percent at 0714 GMT, while Pegasus fell 1.02 percent and TAV dropped 1.43 percent. The US Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday passengers travelling from specific airports including Istanbul could not bring into the main cabin devices larger than a mobile phone such as tablets, laptops and cameras. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ DALLAS: Income and revenue rose during the peak holiday season at FedEx, but higher fuel costs helped keep profit below Wall Street’s forecast. Holiday-season package volume was the heaviest ever, as the big package-delivery company continues to benefit from the growth in online shopping. The drawback is that unlike deliveries to businesses, shipments to consumers are spread out and more costly to deliver. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

PHILADELPHIA: Pepsi is pulling 2-liter bottles and 12-packs of its products from Philadelphia grocery store shelves over the city’s new tax on sweetened drinks. The company says it wants to offer products and package sizes working families can better afford. The 1.5-cent-per-ounce tax on sweetened and diet beverages is imposed at the distributor level. If fully passed on to the consumer it amounts to $1.44 on a six-pack of 16-ounce bottles. The company’s decision affects sodas including Pepsi and Mountain Dew and other sweetened drinks like Gatorade and Lipton Iced Tea. Democratic Mayor Jim Kenney’s office says the industry was trending toward smaller sizes well before the tax passed. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

OMAHA: The Gordmans bankruptcy has attracted two bidders who want to keep at least some of the company’s 106 discount department stores operating. The Omaha, Nebraska-based company, filed for bankruptcy protection last week and announced plans to liquidate its inventory after posting losses in five of its last six quarters. Former Gordmans CEO Jeff Gordman is leading one of the groups interested in the company’s assets. Gordman left the company in 2013 after clashing with the Sun Capital private equity firm that owns half the company. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

NEW YORK: Target is celebrating the stretch mark as a thing of beauty. The chain has launched a swimwear campaign on social media that features four models in unretouched images as it promotes a focus on inclusivity. Social media star Megan Batoon, pro skateboarder Lizzie Armanto, model and body activist Denise Bidot and TV host and model Kamie Crawford star in the ad that features one-piece and two-piece suits. The move follows Target and other retailers’ increasing focus on embracing all body types and bolstering their offerings of plus-size clothing in fashion collections. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ SEATTLE: The maker of the pain medication OxyContin has asked a federal judge in Seattle to throw out a Washington city’s lawsuit that seeks to hold the drugmaker responsible for allowing its pills to flood the black market and into Everett. Purdue Pharma argued in court documents filed Monday that there is no basis in law for a municipality to bring such an action against a pharmaceutical manufacturer. Everett, a city of about 108,000 north of Seattle, sued the Connecticutbased company in January seeking to hold it accountable for the social and economic damages to the community due to illegal trafficking of the powerful painkillers. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ CALGARY, Alberta: Enbridge Inc says it is cutting about 1,000 jobs or 6 percent of its workforce following the takeover of Houston-based Spectra Energy. The Calgary, Alberta-based Enbridge said Wednesday it is laying off people to address overlaps in the combined company’s organizational structure after acquiring Spectra late last month. Both operate pipelines that deliver oil and natural gas. Enbridge announced last August it was buying Houston-based Spectra Energy for about $28 billion, creating North America’s largest energy infrastructure company. Company spokesman Todd Nogier did not provide details about the cuts, but says they’re being made across the merged company. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

THE HAGUE, Netherlands: Industrial paints and chemicals company AkzoNobel has rejected a second unsolicited takeover bid from US company PPG Industries worth 22.4 billion euros ($24.1 billion). AkzoNobel CEO Ton Buechner said in a statement Wednesday that the bid “significantly fails to recognize the value of AkzoNobel” and is not in the interest of the company, its shareholders or its staff. (AP)

Sears has ‘substantial doubt’ about its future Sears, once the monolith of American retail, says that there is “substantial doubt” that it will be able to keep its doors open. Company shares, which hit an all-time low last month, tumbled more than 5 percent before the opening bell Wednesday. Millions of dollars have been funneled through the hedge fund of Chairman and CEO Edward Lampert to keep Sears

as ‘Candle in the Tomb’ and ‘When a Snail Falls in Love,’” the company said. For 2016, Tencent had revenues of $21.9 billion (RMB151 billion,) an increase of 48 percent, and net profits of $5.98 billion (RMB41.4 billion.) That was an increase of 42 percent. The company credited its social media platforms with helping to boost consumption of its digital content. (RTRS)

afloat but with sales fading, it is burning through cash. Lampert combined Sears and Kmart in 2005, about two years after he helped bring Kmart out of bankruptcy According to a regulatory filing late Tuesday, Sears Holdings Corp lost more than $2 billion last year. Adjusted for one-time charges, its loss was $887 million. Sears has been selling as-

sets, most recently its Craftsman tool brand. But it says its pension agreements may prevent the spin-off of more businesses, potentially leading to a shortfall in funding. “Our historical operating results indicate substantial doubt exists related to the company’s ability to continue as a going concern,” Sears said in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. (AP)

Stocks dip on doubts over Trump policies; gold hits 3-week peak Oil prices lowest since Nov on rising US inventories NEW YORK, March 22, (RTRS): Most US and European share indexes fell on Wednesday as concerns over potential delays to President Donald Trump’s pro-growth policies again unnerved investors, while safe-haven gold, US Treasuries, and the yen rallied. The benchmark US S&P 500 stock index briefly hit its lowest level in five weeks, while the FTSEurofirst 300 index of top European shares hit a roughly twoweek low as investors increasingly worried about whether Trump would be able to push ahead with his pro-growth policies. Trump on Tuesday tried to rally Republican lawmakers behind a plan to dismantle Obamacare, his first major legislation since assuming office in January. Some investors fear that if the healthcare reform act runs into trouble or takes longer than expected to pass, then Trump’s tax reform policies may face setbacks. Caution continued to prevail a day after the S&P 500 closed down 1.2 percent in its worst daily performance since Oct. 11. CBOE’s VIX index, known as the “fear gauge”, briefly topped 13 for the first time since midJanuary on Wednesday, but was last down 1 percent at 12.31. “The markets were reminded yesterday the ‘Trump trade’ is not a oneway trade and there’s room for disappointment as actions on tax cuts and infrastructure spending might not materialize as quickly as we want,” said Anastasia Amoroso, global market strategist at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Houston. MSCI’s all-country world equity index was last down 1.9 points, or 0.42 percent, at 446.15. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 52.52 points, or 0.25 percent, at 20,615.49. The S&P 500 lost 1.22 points, or 0.05 percent, to 2,342.8. The Nasdaq Composite was up 8.26 points, or 0.14 percent, at 5,802.08. Europe’s broad FTSEurofirst 300 index was last down 0.53 percent at 1,473.18. The cautious mood stoked demand for gold, US government debt, and the Japanese yen, with spot gold prices touching a three-week high of $1,250.51 an ounce and the dollar hitting a four-month low against the yen of 110.76 yen. Yields on benchmark 10-year US Treasury notes hit a more than threeweek low of 2.375 percent as their prices rallied. Benchmark Brent crude oil prices fell to a nearly four-month low of $49.71 a barrel and US crude prices hit their own nearly four-month trough of $47.01 a barrel after data showed US crude inventories rising faster than

expected, piling pressure on OPEC to extend output cuts beyond June. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of six major rivals, was last down 0.2 percent at 99.634 after hitting a nearly seven-week low of 99.609 earlier. “People are losing confidence in a swift moving set of congressional reform,” said Ian Lyngen, head of US rates strategy at BMO Capital Markets in New York.

US The S&P and the Nasdaq reversed course to climb higher in afternoon trading on Wednesday, as investors sought bargains a day after the major indexes posted their biggest one-day loss since before the election. Apple was up about 1 percent and provided the biggest boost to the three major indexes. However, the Dow was lower, weighed down by a 6.3 percent fall in Nike after the world’s largest footwear maker missed quarterly revenue estimates. “What we’re seeing today is buyers being opportunistic and trying to gain entry into the overall market,” said Robert Pavlik, chief market strategist at Boston Private Wealth in New York. “That’s why we’re seeing tech and industrials stocks, which last a lot on Tuesday, lead today.” Still, the market remained cautious ahead of the first major legislative test of Donald Trump’s presidency. Investors are closely watching the outcome of the healthcare bill, which Republican party leaders are aiming to move in the House as early as Thursday, as a signal to how Trump can push forward his tax cuts and simpler regulation agenda. Trump has been trying to rally Republican lawmakers behind the plan, which will dismantle Obamacare. Some investors fear that if the healthcare reform act runs into trouble or takes longer-than-expected to pass, then Trump’s tax reform policies may face setbacks. “The market was giving Trump somewhat of a talk-the-talk leeway,” said Ryan Larson, head of US equity trading at RBC Global Asset Management in Chicago. “It was supportive of what the administration was talking about. We’re starting to get into a phase where that grace period is coming to an end and what the market wants to see more walk-the-talk as opposed to talk-the-talk.” Oil prices touched four-month lows after data showed US crude inventories rising faster than expected. The S&P 500 has run up about 10 percent since the election in November, spurred mainly by Trump’s agenda of tax cuts and infrastructure spending, but valuations have emerged as a concern. The benchmark index is trading at about 18 times forward earnings estimates against the long-term average

of 15, according to Thomson Reuters data. At 12:21 pm ET (1621 GMT) the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 30.94 points, or 0.15 percent, at 20,637.07, the S&P 500 was up 1.46 points, or 0.06 percent, at 2,345.48. The Nasdaq Composite was up 12.81 points, or 0.22 percent, at 5,806.64. Five of the 11 major S&P sectors were higher, with the technology index’s 0.58 percent gain leading the advancers. The financial sector, which suffered its worst daily drop since June on Tuesday, was down 0.22 percent. Bank of America and Wells Fargo were down about 0.7 percent.

Asia China stocks fell on Wednesday due to worries over tightening liquidity in the domestic banking system, and uncertainty over whether US President Donald Trump will be able to get his economic policies approved in a timely fashion. The blue-chip CSI300 index fell 0.5 percent, to 3,450.05 points, while the Shanghai Composite Index lost 0.5 percent to 3,245.22 points. Investors were also concerned about tightening liquidity in the banking system as the end of the quarter nears, according to Zhang Qi, an analyst at Haitong Securities. Short-term interest rates in China surged on Tuesday as cash conditions tightened on worries the central bank’s quarterly risk assessment at the end of this month would restrict lending in the interbank market. Main sectors fell across the board, led by banks and property stocks, as a central bank survey found that 52.2 percent of urban households believed housing prices were “unacceptably high” in the first quarter. That reinforced expectations authorities will be more aggressive to cool a red-hot property market, even at the risk of dampening economic growth.. Bucking the broad trend, stocks related to the “One Belt, One Road” infrastructure initiative continued to outperform, led by heavyweight infrastructure shares, as they were seen benefiting from the initiative. Hong Kong stocks fell on Wednesday, with sentiment hurt by sharp losses on Wall Street on concerns US President Donald Trump will struggle to deliver tax cuts and other reflationary economic policies. The benchmark Hang Seng index broke a four-session winning streak. It fell 1.1 percent at the close, to 24,320.41 points. The Hong Kong China Enterprises Index lost 1.8 percent, to 10,456.96 points, partly due to weaker southbound inflows from Shanghai through a trading link. “Investors are taking a review of the global economic recovery as Trump fails to put forward specific figures on

his tax cut policies and infrastructure plans,” said Linus Yip, strategist at First Shanghai Securities Ltd.

Oil Oil prices slipped to almost fourmonth lows on Wednesday after data showed US crude inventories rising faster than expected, piling pressure on OPEC to extend output cuts beyond June. A deal between the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and some non-OPEC producers to reduce output by 1.8 million barrels per day (bpd) in the first half of 2017 has had little impact on bulging global stockpiles of oil. OPEC, which sources say is increasingly leaning towards extending cuts, has broadly delivered on pledged reductions so far, but non-OPEC states have yet to cut fully in line with commitments. “OPEC has used up most of its arsenal of verbal weapons to support the market. One hundred percent compliance by all is the only tool they have left and on that account they are struggling,” said Ole Hansen, head of commodity strategy at Saxo Bank. Benchmark Brent crude was down 66 cents at $50.30 per barrel at 1141 GMT, after dropping to $50.05, its lowest level since OPEC announced on Nov. 30 its plan for cuts. The deal with non-OPEC states was reached in December. US light crude was down 63 cents at $47.61 a barrel, also slipping towards its lowest in almost four months. The American Petroleum Institute said on Tuesday that US inventories climbed by 4.5 million barrels to 533.6 million last week, outpacing analyst forecasts of 2.8 million. Investors now want to see whether Wednesday’s figures from the Energy Information Administration, a unit of the US Department of Energy (DoE), confirm the rise.

Gold Gold climbed to a three-week high on Wednesday as the dollar fell to near six-week lows and bond yields sank on uncertainty over the economic policies of US President Donald Trump. Spot gold was up 0.3 percent at $1,248.68 an ounce by 1453 GMT, close to the session high of $1,250.51. A lack of concrete policy from the Trump administration is increasing gold’s attraction as a safe-haven investment, analysts and traders said. “It seems that equity investors decided to take some money off the table, perhaps getting slightly wary about the progress in President Trump’s legislative agenda,” INTL FCStone analyst Edward Meir said. US gold futures rose 0.2 percent to $1,249.20. The dollar index, which measures the greenback against a basket of currencies, was down 0.2 percent at a sixweek low of 99.609, its weakest since Feb. 3.

exchange rates – March 22 US dollar Buy Sell Sell Muzaini Sell Dollarco Commercial Bank Buy Sell Buy Gulf Bank Sell Buy NBK Sell Buy Burgan Bank Sell Buy ABK Sell Buy KFH Sell Sell KBE

Cash .301650 .306050 .305150 .306250 .301000 .306700 .304350 .306450 — — — — .301850 .307950 .303240 .308770 —

Buy Sell Sell Muzaini Sell Dollarco Commercial Bank Buy Sell Buy Gulf Bank Sell Buy NBK Sell Buy Burgan Bank Sell Buy ABK Sell Buy KFH Sell Sell KBE

Cash .040530 .045530 — — — — .043920 .045260 — — — — — — — — —

BEC

Draft .303400 .305750 .306350 .306000 .304350 .306450 .304350 .306450 .304950 .307050 .304950 .307050 .304350 .306450 .303950 .307050 .306250

Transfer .303400 .305750 .306350 .306000 .304350 .306450 .304350 .306450 .304950 .307050 .304950 .307050 .304350 .306450 .303950 .307050 .306250

Danish krone BEC

Draft .040529 .045529 — — .044221 .044749 .043920 .045260 .044130 .045080 .043536 .045929 .043220 .044320 .044029 .044901 —

Transfer .040529 .045529 — — .044221 .044749 .043920 .045260 .044130 .045080 .043536 .045929 .043220 .044320 .044029 .044901 —

Cyprus pound BEC Muzaini Dollarco Gulf Bank ABK KFH KBE

Buy Sell Sell Sell Buy Sell Buy Sell Buy Sell Sell

Cash Draft Transfer — — — — — — — — — .695000 .167990 .167990 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

travellers cheques BEC Commercial Bank Gulf Bank Al-Ahli Bank

Sterling pound Cash .371011 .381011 — .375500 .375000 .380000 .375840 .383500 — — — — .372180 .382170 .355094 .391057 —

Draft .370011 .379611 .374210 .373760 .379159 .381775 .375840 .383500 .370210 .374910 .370819 .373526 .375510 .379990 .360485 .382738 .380900

Transfer .370011 .379611 .374210 .373760 .379159 .381775 .375840 .383500 .370210 .374910 .370819 .373526 .375510 .379990 .360485 .382738 .380900

Euro Cash .323142 .332142 — .330000 .327000 .335000 .326900 .333480 — — — — .323730 .332740 .311397 .345050 —

Indian rupee Cash .000030 .004184 — .004650 .004000 .006500 — .004660 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .004461 .004537 .004578 .004568 — .004547 — .004660 .004470 .004650 .004399 .004667 .004517 .004622 .004492 .004632 .004594 Draft .001364 .001464 .001229 — — — — — .001199 .001229 .001550

US dollar .3057500 .3064500 .3064500 .3064500

Japanese yen Transfer .323142 .330242 .328250 .328225 .328394 .330660 .326900 .333480 .324740 .329130 .325366 .327760 .326620 .330840 .316686 .335452 .332100

Pakistani rupee

Transfer .004461 .004537 .004578 .004568 — .004547 — .004660 .004470 .004650 .004399 .004667 .004517 .004622 .004492 .004632 .004594

Cash .002697 .002987 — .003100 — — — .002960 — — — — — — — — —

Yemeni riyal Cash .001374 .001454 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .323142 .330242 .328250 .328225 .328394 .330660 .326900 .333480 .324740 .329130 .325366 .327760 .326620 .330840 .316686 .335452 .332100

Draft .002869 .002901 .002917 .002917 — .002923 — .002960 — .002950 .002829 .003003 — .003007 .002868 .002934 .002901

Transfer .002869 .002901 .002917 .002917 — .002923 — .002960 — .002950 .002829 .003003 — .003007 .002868 .002934 .002901

Thai baht

Transfer .001364 .001464 .001229 — — — — — .001199 .001229 .001550

Cash .008291 .008841 — .009000 — — — — — — —

Sterling .3796113 .3817750 .3835000 .3799900

Draft .008230 .008645 .008601 .009715 — — – — .008485 .008803 —

Transfer .008230 .008645 .008601 .009715 — — — – .008485 .008803 —

Euro .3302423 .3306600 .3334800 .3308400

Cash .002734 .002914 — .003500 — — .002810 .002890 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .002734 .002914 .002697 .003690 .002837 .002871 .002810 .002890 .002863 .002895 .002792 .002946 .002677 .002710 .002776 .002933 —

Transfer .002734 .002914 .002697 .003690 .002837 .002871 .002810 .002890 .002863 .002895 .002792 .002946 .002677 .002710 .002776 .002933 —

Sri Lanka rupee Cash .001651 .002231 — .002300 .002000 .003500 — .002090 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .002020 .002062 .002062 .002022 — .002065 — .002090 .002010 .002080 .002044 .002066 — .002165 .002033 .002078 .002057

Transfer .002020 .002062 .002062 .002022 — .002065 — .002090 .002010 .002080 .002044 .002066 — .002165 .002033 .002078 .002057

Swiss franc Cash .301657 .312657 — .310000 .306000 .315000 .308020 .317690 — — — — — — — — —

Transfer .302657 .309657 .302970 .309220 .306109 .308233 .308020 .317690 .307200 .310750 .307446 .309736 .302320 .306540 .305609 .311255 —

Bangladesh taka Cash .003383 .003967 — .004150 — — — .003940 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .003827 .003871 .003853 .003854 — .003897 — .003940 — — .003838 .003894 — — .003802 .003914 .003873

Transfer .003827 .003871 .003853 .003854 — .003897 — .003940 — — .003838 .003894 — — .003802 .003914 .003873

Korean won

South African rand Cash Draft Transfer .016426 — — .024926 — — — — — — — — — — — .022540 .022540 .022540 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — —

Draft .302657 .309657 .302970 .309220 .306109 .308233 .308020 .317690 .307200 .310750 .307446 .309736 .302320 .306540 .305609 .311255 —

Cash .000255 .000270 — — — — — — — — —

local gold BEC Muzaini Exchange

Draft — — — — — — — — — — —

Transfer — — — — — — — — — — —

Gold 999 kg — 12,331.560

Canadian dollar Cash .221161 .230161 — .235000 .224000 .235000 .222680 .229520 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .219161 .229161 .230510 .233480 .225454 .227019 .222680 .229520 .225290 .227610 .225799 .227450 .231620 .234390 .224967 .228483 —

Transfer .219161 .229161 .230510 .233480 .225454 .227019 .222680 .229520 .225290 .227610 .225799 .227450 .231620 .234390 .224967 .228483 —

Philippine peso Cash .006142 .006442 — .006350 .005000 .007900 — .006370 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .005800 .006267 .006156 .006082 — .006315 — .006370 .006090 .006260 .006239 .006321 — .006692 .006148 .006328 .006211

Transfer .005800 .006267 .006156 .006082 — .006315 — .006370 .006090 .006260 .006239 .006321 .006692 .006148 .006328 .006211

Swedish krona Cash .029458 .034458 — — — — .033320 .034340 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .001285 .001505 .002182 .002425 — — — — — — —

Gold 999 10 tola — 1,458.020

Transfer .001285 .001505 .002182 .002425 — — — — — — —

Transfer .029458 .034458 — — .033372 .033603 .033320 .034340 .033320 .033630 .033837 .034084 .338900 .346200 .033368 .033799 —

Australian dollar Cash .224322 .236322 — — .229000 .235000 .230110 .234790 — — — — — — — — —

Syrian pound Cash .001286 .001506 — .000980 — — — — — — —

Draft .029458 .034458 — — .033372 .033603 .033320 .034340 .033320 .033630 .033837 .034084 .338900 .346200 .033368 .033799 —

Draft .222322 .235322 — — .228750 .231477 .230110 .234790 .232450 .235440 .228040 .229778 .233300 .236370 .231898 .235376 —

Transfer .222322 .235322 — — .228750 .231477 .230110 .234790 .232450 .235440 .228040 .229778 .233300 .236370 .231898 .235376 —

Iranian Riyal Cash .000084 .000085 — — — — — — — — —

Gold ounce — 394.000

Draft — — — — — — — — — — —

Transfer — — — — — — — — — — —

Gold gm 22k — 11.320

Saudi riyal Cash .079993 .081293 — .083000 .077000 .083000 .080170 .081890 — — — — .080070 .082580 .080090 .081861 —

Draft .080493 .081133 .081654 .082500 .080741 .081301 .080170 .081890 .080610 .081310 .080340 .081115 .080780 .082110 .080518 .081369

Transfer .080493 .081133 .081654 .082500 .080741 .081301 .080170 .081890 .080610 .081310 .080340 .081115 .080780 .082110 .080518 .081369

Hong Kong dollar Cash .037033 .039783 — — — — .038790 .039570 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .036532 .039632 .039456 — .038936 .039400 .038790 .039570 — — — — .039230 .039670 — — —

Transfer .036532 .039632 .039456 — .038936 .039400 .038790 .039570 — — — — .039230 .039670 — — —

Lebanese pound Cash .000147 .000247 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .000181 .000201 .002040 — — — — — .000197 .000206 —

Gold gm 21k — 10.800

Transfer .000181 .000201 .002040 — — — — — .000197 .000206 —

UAE dirham Cash .081357 .083057 — .084000 .082149 .082975 .081890 .083600 — — — — .082704 .083536 .081786 .083591 —

Draft .081300 .082750 .083356 .083680 .082421 .082993 .081890 .083600 .082340 .083030 .082054 .082850 .082530 .083910 .082223 .083088 .082810

Transfer .081300 .082750 .083356 .083680 .082421 .082993 .081890 .083600 .082340 .083030 .082054 .082850 .082530 .083910 .082223 .083088 .082810

Singapore dollar Cash .213951 .223951 — — — — .214770 .221340 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .214951 .220951 .215040 — .216649 .219232 .214770 .221340 .216640 .219340 .218767 .220417 .214170 .216670 .216405 .219743 —

Transfer .214951 .220951 .215040 — .216649 .219232 .214770 .221340 .216640 .219340 .218767 .220417 .214170 .216670 .216405 .219743 —

Malaysian ringgit Cash .068677 .074677 — .076000 — — — — — — —

Gold gm 18k — 9.260

Draft .067416 .074416 .068841 .069500 — — — — .070853 .071672 —

Transfer .067416 .074416 .068841 .069500 — — — — .070853 .071672 —

100 gm 999 — —

Bahraini dinar Cash .799929 .808429 — .813000 .800355 .808399 .797750 .814380 — — — — — — .794037 .816600 —

Draft .799428 .807928 .813070 .810915 .803169 .808742 .797750 .814380 .801620 .808570 .799406 .807107 .801640 .816820 .801697 .808785 .806500

Transfer .799428 .807928 .813070 .810915 .803169 .808742 .797750 .814380 .801620 .808570 .799406 .807107 .801640 .816820 .801697 .808785 .806500

Jordanian dinar Cash .423775 .432775 — .435000 .420000 .434000 — .435960 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .422147 .429647 .431200 .432620 — .432199 — .435960 .424370 .431750 .424741 .428904 .429040 .436310 .424743 .429924 —

Transfer .422147 .429647 .431200 .432620 — .432199 — .435960 .424370 .431750 .424741 .428904 .429040 .436310 .424743 .429924 —

Indonesian rupiah Cash .000019 .000025 — — — .000020 — — — — —

Draft .000018 .000025 — — — .000020 — — — — .002377

10 gm 999 — 130.140

Transfer .000018 .000025 — — — .000020 — — — — .002377

Omani riyal Cash .783320 .789000 — — .784615 .792501 .781220 .797480 — — — — — — .777623 .799556 —

Draft .777819 .788819 .795218 — .786308 .791764 .781220 .797480 .785390 .791970 .782777 .790274 .787960 .800890 .785047 .791970 —

Transfer .777819 .788819 .795218 — .786308 .791764 .781220 .797480 .785390 .791970 .782777 .790274 .787960 .800890 .785047 .791970 —

Egyptian pound Cash .017442 .024695 .023900 .023000 .016000 .024000 — .034920 — — — — — — — — —

Draft .021482 .022251 .017300 .019476 — .034598 — .034920 .033890 .034430 .033796 .034417 — .020800 .017393 .017702 .017995

Transfer .021482 .022251 .017300 .019476 — .034598 — .034920 .033890 .034430 .033796 .034417 — .020800 .017393 .017702 .017995

New Zealand dollar Cash .215304 .224804 — — .215310 .219690 — — — — —

Draft .213304 .224304 — — .215310 .219690 .217340 .221130 — — —

Transfer .213304 .224304 — — .215310 .219690 .217340 .221130 — — —

All rates in KD per unit of foreign currency

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

INTERNATIONAL

37

‘Serving as counterbalance remains vital’

First US aircraft carrier of Trump presidency enters Gulf ABOARD THE USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH, March 22, (AP): American sailors watched as the first Revolutionary Guard vessels appeared on the horizon of the Strait of Hormuz, beginning a daylong face-off that has become familiar to both Iranian paramilitary and US naval forces that pass through the narrow mouth of the Arabian Gulf. But these routine, if tense encounters may soon grow even more perilous. President Donald Trump has warned that Iranian forces will be blown out of the water if they challenge US naval vessels, while American command-

People in Continued from Page 1 any rules and regulations pertaining to the scholarship or any of the US laws or the laws of Kuwait. His response was that his son did not violate or rather transgress any items specified in Article 4 of Ministry of Higher Education’s academic scholarship rules and regulations. I was filled with huge awe when I discovered the real reason behind the dismissal of my friend’s son from the academic scholarship program sponsored by Ministry of Higher Education was a new regulation, as per which scholarship students are not allowed to marry anyone besides Kuwaiti or GCC citizens when under the scholarship program. My friend explained that his son married an American whom he loved and who loves him but because of this marriage, he has been expelled from the scholarship program. This new item introduced in the regulatory article violates the constitutional rights of citizens, which is personal freedom. This scholarship student is not an employee of any sensitive ministry, such as Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Defense, in order for such regulations to be imposed on his personal decisions. When it comes to employees from abovementioned sensitive ministries, they have to seek permission for marrying a non-Kuwaiti. If this matter is highlighted by the US media, and gets picked up by the rightists of this era and the supporters of President Donald Trump, they would throw our racist ministry’s scholarship students in the Atlantic Ocean. I conclude with a story I received from a friend through social media. It is about an interview of our colleague, the former minister of Electricity and Water Yahya Fahad Al-Sumait, who said, “When I was living with an American family and they realized I was fasting during the month of Ramadan, they changed their dinner timings to coincide with my breakfast timings. Until the end of Ramadan, they would eat their dinner at the time when I break my fast”. This is from us to our wise government and its kind who treat foreigners with racism, hatred and inhumanly.

Emirates defends Continued from Page 1 new US rule. It operates 18 daily flights to a dozen US cities, including major destinations such as New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, as well as smaller markets like Boston and Fort Lauderdale. Many of the passengers it carries are not going to or from the Middle East, but transit through Dubai International Airport to points all over Emirates’ far-flung global network. The airport is the world’s busiest air hub for international passenger traffic, and the third busiest overall. Emirates’ success and that of smaller rivals Qatar Airways and Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has rattled big US airlines, who accuse the Gulf carriers of receiving billions of dollars of unfair government subsidies. They deny the allegations. Clark was unaware of any specific security threats that prompted the US directive, but he dismissed suggestions that protectionist pressures were behind the move. “I can only assume the United States government has reasons to do what they’re doing,” he said. Emirates is the only carrier in Dubai affected by the new US rules. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines stopped flying to the city last year. The airline boss said Emirates was stung by the Trump administration’s



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ers describe the Guard as increasingly behaving unprofessionally with rocket launches and provocative actions. Iranian hard-liners, still smarting over the nuclear detente with the West, may see a military confrontation as a way to derail moderate President Hassan Rouhani heading into the country’s May presidential election. What happens next could hinge on the Strait of Hormuz, through which a third of all oil trade by sea passes. “What reason were they to be in an international corridor, other than to harass us?” Rear Adm. Kenneth Whi-

tesell, commander of Carrier Strike Group 2, said of the Iranian actions. “Was today the day they were going to come out and potentially deploy kinetic actions against us?” Whitesell oversees the strike group that has the USS George H.W. Bush at its heart. The Nimitz-class, nuclear-powered carrier left her homeport of Norfolk, Virginia, on Jan 21 — Trump’s first full day in office. Its passage through the strait closes a roughly three-month gap in which America had no aircraft carrier in the Arabian Gulf. A similar gap happened in the fall of

2015 — the first for the US since 2007. Its overall mission is providing a base for airstrikes against the Islamic State group. The ship’s contingent of F-18 fighter jets began bombing the extremists in February as the vessel transited through the Mediterranean Sea. But serving as a counterbalance to Iran and assuring America’s Gulf Arab allies in the region also remains vital, Whitesell said. While acknowledging that Trump and Defense Secretary Jim Mattis have strong suspicions about Iran, he said there hadn’t been any change in his orders in how to deal with

the Islamic Republic. “The political aspect of the United States has kind of been in our wake,” the rear admiral said. Threats, however, remain. After a Saudi naval vessel came under attack from a purported “drone” boat off the coast of war-torn Yemen, in the Bab alMandeb Strait in the Red Sea, US vessels in this strike group changed their routine to protect themselves while passing, said Capt Will Pennington, the commanding officer of the Bush. “Some of our escort ships arrived in advance of us and provided security in

that Bab al-Mandeb and a few lagged a few days behind so our coverage of that area was extended,” Pennington said. “That same threat could exist here in the Strait of Hormuz or any other strait.” Small vessel attacks also include the October 2000 boat-borne bombing by al-Qaeda on the USS Cole, which killed 17 American sailors while the ship was refueling in Yemen’s Aden harbor. The worry grows for US officials as the Navy recorded 35 instances of what it describes as “unsafe and/or unprofessional” interactions with Iranians forces in 2016, compared to 23 in 2015.

Rebels press assault near Hama

safe after the incident, a spokesman for her office said. He declined to say where May was when the attack took place. Journalist Quentin Letts of the Daily Mail newspaper told LBC radio that he had witnessed the stabbing of the policeman and the shooting of the assailant from his office in the parliament building. “He (the assailant) ran in through the open gates ... He set about one of the policemen with what looked like a stick,” Letts said. “The policeman fell over on the ground and it was quite horrible to watch and then having done that, he disengaged and ran towards the House of Commons entrance used by MPs (members of parliament) and got about 20 yards or so when two plain-clothed guys with guns shot him.” Reuters reporters inside parliament saw a large number of armed police, some carrying shields, pouring into the building. A helicopter ambulance landed on Parliament Square. US President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House he had been briefed on events in London but gave no details. In Edinburgh, the Scottish parliament suspended a planned debate and vote on independence as news of events in London came in. New York police ramped up security at British sites across the city on Wednesday after an assailant stabbed a policeman outside Britain’s parliament and was then shot by police.

Turkey fires into Kurdish-controlled Syria BEIRUT, March 22, (RTRS): Syrian rebels advanced to within a few kilometres of the government-held city of Hama on Wednesday in a major assault in the western region of Syria critically important to President Bashar al-Assad, a war monitor reported. The offensive, spearheaded by Islamist militants, was launched on Tuesday after an attack in the capital Damascus, where heavy fighting persists, showing the lingering threat posed by rebels even as Assad enjoys the military upper hand. The Hama offensive also includes Free Syrian Army (FSA) rebels who had agreed to a truce in December brokered by Russia and Turkey, underlining the bleak prospects for UN-backed peace talks that are due to reconvene in Geneva on Thursday. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported the latest rebel advance on Hama. The Syrian army could not immediately be reached for comment. A Syrian military source told Reuters the army was sending reinforcements against the rebel thrust, adding that the insurgents had mobilised large numbers for the assault. A rebel commander told pro-opposition Orient TV that insurgents planned to open yet more fronts. The Observatory, a Britain-based war monitor, said insurgents had captured the towns of Soran, 20 km (12 miles) north of Hama, Khattab, 10 km northwest of Hama, and al-Majdal, 6 km west of Khattab. The assault on Soran began on Tuesday with two suicide bombers being deployed in addition to rockets and artillery. The areas of Hama province targeted in the latest assault form part of Syria’s pivotal western region where Assad has shored up his rule during the six-year-long war with crucial military support from Russia and Iran. “There are fierce battles between the two sides,” the military source said. The attack is being led by Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance of Islamist facexecutive orders to restrict travel to passengers from seven Muslim-majority nations, with demand for the US less robust than before. “Frankly it’s not surprising given what has been going on,” he said, adding that Emirates has no plans to scale back on its US operations. “This is not going to stop us.” Emirates is racing to implement plans to let passengers use their laptops and other devices until they are ready to board their US-bound flights. The gadgets would be collected before takeoff and stowed securely in cargo holds before being handed back to passengers once they land, Clark said. Passengers on flights connecting in Dubai wouldn’t need to hand them in until boarding the US-bound leg. That may be little consolation for business travelers hoping to get some work done on the long haul from Dubai to the US — a journey that can last up to two-thirds of a day. Clark suggested they try to look on the bright side. “For once I don’t have to bang out all the emails,” he said. “I’ve got a perfect excuse to say to the boss, ‘I couldn’t do any work because of the ban.’”

US, allies Continued from Page 1 could plan and mount attacks throughout the Middle East, South and Central Asia, Europe and the United States. The officials gathering in Washington also hope to figure out how best to deal with the inevitably messy humanitarian and political aftermath of IS’ defeat on the battlefield. There are widespread fears of chaos, such as what emerged after NATO’s intervention in Libya in 2011, that could further fracture the region’s deep ethnic and religious splits, and complicate the stated goal of preserving the Syrian and Iraqi states. The meeting was the first of all the coalition’s top diplomats since September 2014. Under Trump, there has been a slight uptick in US military involvement, with 400 additional Marines

In this March 20 photograph, crew reposition an F-18 fighter jet on the USS George H.W. Bush as it travels toward the Strait of Hormuz. The arrival of the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier to the Arabian Gulf marks the first such deployment under new US President Donald Trump. (AP)

Newswatch LONDON: A young Yazidi

tions dominated by a group that was formerly al-Qaeda’s official affiliate in the Syrian war. “The battle — praise God — has been prepared for a long time and all capacities have been prepared for it so that we can wage a long battle,” an FSA commander identified as a lieutenant in the Ezza Army group told Orient TV. Turkey fired into Kurdish-controlled Syria on Wednesday after saying one of its soldiers was killed by a sniper from across the border, risking deeper conflict with a Kurdish militia backed by the United States and building ties to Russia. The Turkish military said the soldier was killed in the Turkish province of Hatay, across the border from Syria’s Afrin, which is controlled by the Kurdish YPG militia. It said it returned fire in retaliation. YPG spokesman Redur Xelil told Reuters that Russian forces which deployed to Afrin earlier this week had headed to the area shelled by Turkey. Russia’s Defence Ministry was not

available for immediate comment. “We will certainly not stand with our hands tied in the face of any aggression and we will use the right to respond in the framework of legitimate self defence,” Xelil told Reuters in a written message. The incident highlights the volatile nature of one of the most complicated theatres in the multi-sided Syrian conflict, where the United States, Turkey, Russia, Iran and Arab states have all backed local forces. The YPG is a military ally of the United States and is playing a major part in US-backed operations against Islamic State in areas of Syria further to the east. It has also built ties to Russia, and said this week that Moscow was setting up a military base in Afrin and would help train its fighters. Turkey, which is a NATO member and part of the US-led coalition against Islamic State, views the YPG as a terrorist organisation, an arm of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK)

militant group fighting an insurrection in Turkey. Ankara has been incensed by US support for the YPG and has warned it will not tolerate a “terror state” being established in northern Syria. It accuses the YPG of rights abuses and of trying to displace Syrian Arab and Turkmen civilians. Xelil said the Turkish army was the aggressor in Wednesday’s incident and that Turkish shelling of border villages around Afrin had wounded 10 civilians. To Turkey’s dismay, Syrian Kurds have managed to bring both Washington and Moscow onto their side after showing themselves as an organised force able to confront jihadist groups and take back territory from Islamic State. The Russian defence ministry said on Monday it had no plans to open new military bases in Syria but that a branch of its “reconciliation centre”, which negotiates local truces in Syria, had been located in Aleppo province near Afrin.

sent to the region this month ahead of the expected assault on Raqqa, the militants’ base. US officials say that operation will be modeled closely on the campaign in Mosul, Iraq’s second largest city. Iraqi government troops working with Kurdish forces known as peshmerga and supported by American airpower and military advisers are nearing a full liberation of the city that has been the extremists’ main Iraqi stronghold since 2014. The effort is focused on driving them from the city’s western half. The United Nations said Wednesday about 45,000 civilians have fled fighting in the past week. Some 330,000 have been uprooted since the operation began in October. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, who meet with Trump on Monday, said he was assured that the US will accelerate support with a more aggressive stance than President Barack Obama took. Obama had been reluctant to commit large numbers of US troops. His approach, which relied on training and supporting local forces, has succeeded in pushing the militants from much of the Iraqi territory they held. Coalition members have expressed concern that Trump’s proposed budget cuts to foreign aid and the United Nations will have severe consequences for humanitarian and reconstruction efforts in Iraq and Syria. Syrian plans are confounded by the country’s civil war, where a political settlement appears nowhere in sight. The US and its partners must balance their need to work with Kurdish groups, whom they say are the most effective local fighting partner, and safeguard broad cooperation with coalition member Turkey.

displaced from western Mosul to about 135,000. OCHA says camp construction and site expansion “are accelerating to meet needs.” US-backed Iraqi forces launched an operation on Feb 19 to drive IS from the western half of Iraq’s second largest city after declaring eastern Mosul “fully liberated” the previous month. OCHA says about 330,000 people have been displaced since the Mosul operation began in October. Of those, only 72,000 have returned. As Islamic State loses ground in Iraq and Syria, the Sunni militant group which once held territory amounting to a third of those countries is turning to sabotage to ensure its enemies cannot benefit from its losses. As the Syrian army and allied militias advanced under heavy Russian air cover on the ancient city of Palmyra three weeks ago, Islamic State leaders ordered fighters to destroy oil and gas fields. “It is the duty of mujahideen today to expand operations targeting economic assets of the infidel regimes in order to deprive crusader and apostate governments of resources,” an article in the group’s online weekly magazine al-Nabaa said. The strategy poses a double challenge to Baghdad and Damascus, depriving their governments of income and making it harder to provide services and gain popular support in devastated areas recaptured from the militants. The March 2 article said operations by Islamic State in the area around Palmyra “prove the massive effect that strikes aimed at the infidels’ economy have, confusing them and drawing them ... into battles they are not ready for.” It’s not just oil wells the group has targeted. Twice in the last two years it has taken over Palmyra, about 200 kms (130 miles) northeast of Damascus, and both times destroyed priceless antiquities before being driven out. A Syrian antiquities official said earlier this month that he had seen serious damage to the Tetrapylon, a square stone platform with matching structures of four columns positioned at each corner. Only four of the 16 columns were still standing.

Four killed

Paras drop in Continued from Page 1 remain inside the city. The United Nations says around 45,000 people have fled the fighting between Iraqi forces and Islamic State militants in western Mosul over the past week, a 22 percent increase from the previous week. The UN humanitarian aid office said Wednesday that the latest wave brought the total number of people

Continued from Page 1 Students – UK and Ireland Branch, to deliver the warning message. Reuters reporters inside parliament heard loud bangs and shortly afterwards saw two people lying on the ground in a courtyard just outside. A Reuters photographer said he saw at least a dozen people injured on the bridge. His photographs showed people lying on the ground, some of them bleeding heavily and one under a bus. The incident took place on the first anniversary of attacks by Islamist militants that killed 32 people in Brussels. “Officers – including firearms officers – remain on the scene and we are treating this as a terrorist incident until we know otherwise,” police said in a statement. “We know there are a number of casualties including police officers but at this stage we cannot confirm numbers or the nature of these injuries,” Commander BJ Harrington told reporters. “We received a number of different reports which included a person in the river, a car in collision with pedestrians and a man armed with a knife.” A woman was pulled alive, but with serious injuries, from the Thames, the Port of London Authority said. French Prime Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said three French nationals were injured. French media reported they were high-school students. “I just saw a car go out of control and just go into pedestrians on the bridge,” eyewitness Bernadette Kerrigan told Sky News. She was on a tour bus on the bridge at the time. “As we were going across the bridge, we saw people lying on the floor, they were obviously injured. I saw about 10 people maybe. And then the emergency services started to arrive. Everyone was just running everywhere.” Officials said an assailant had stabbed a policeman and then been shot. Witness reports suggested the assailant and the stabbed policeman were the people seen lying on the ground outside the parliamentary building. The House of Commons, which was in session at the time, was immediately suspended and lawmakers were asked to stay inside. Prime Minister Theresa May was

father-of-four who risked his life to help survivors of Islamic State atrocities in northern Iraq has won a prestigious award for his humanitarian work. Bassam Hawas Quru, who works for International Medical Corps, told how he became an aid worker after Islamic State overran his Sinjar homeland, massacring thousands of his people and enslaving others. Hawas Quru, named winner of the Bond Humanitarian Award, which recognises hidden “superheroes” working in the humanitarian field, said 11 members of his family were captured by militants as they tried to escape. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

LONDON: Iran is sending advanced weapons and military advisers to Yemen’s rebel Houthi movement, stepping up support for its Shi’ite ally in a civil war whose outcome could sway the balance of power in the Middle East, regional and Western sources say. Iran’s enemy Saudi Arabia is leading a Sunni Arab coalition fighting the Houthis in the impoverished state on the tip of the Arabian peninsula — part of the same regional power struggle that is fuelling the war in Syria. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ NEW DELHI: The International Labour Organization (ILO) has deferred a decision on whether to investigate Qatar for forced labour violations, giving the Gulf state until November to implement new labour reforms to improve migrant worker rights. Around 90 percent of the Arab state’s 2.5 million population are migrant workers from countries including India, Nepal and Bangladesh. Many are in lowpaid construction jobs to build stadiums and infrastructure ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

CAIRO: At least 435 students fell ill of suspected food poisoning in public schools across Egypt on Tuesday and Wednesday after consuming government-issued school meals, health officials said. Egypt’s Health Ministry announced on Wednesday that 312 students in schools in Cairo, Suez and Aswan were hospitalized with symptoms of food poisoning, in a succession of mass food poisoning incidents that started earlier this month caused by the school meals, produced by a military-owned company. Some 2,200 students were treated last week for the same symptoms in the southern province of Sohag. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ GENEVA: An Italian train derailed in the central Swiss city of Lucerne on Wednesday and one carriage tipped over, injuring seven people on board. The train from Milan in northern Italy to the northwestern Swiss city of Basel derailed shortly before 2 pm as it was pulling out of Lucerne’s main train station, Swiss railway company SBB said. (AP)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

LEISURE

38

Sherman’s Lagoon — By J.P. Toomey

N E W

Y O R K

T I M E S

CROSSWORD

Mutts — By Patrick McDonnell

Hagar The Horrible — By Chris Browne

Beetle Bailey — By Mort Walker

Scratch pad

odds ’n’ ends PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: A park ranger in Cambodia says an endangered wild elephant has died after an electrical pole fell and electrocuted the animal. Nup Thet, a ranger at Wildlife Alliance, said the 3-ton elephant was electrocuted late Tuesday in the jungle near Cardamom National Park. Cambodia is home to some 450 wild elephants. Suwanna Gauntlet, chief executive officer of Wildlife Alliance, said about 200 of them live in Cardamom National Park. Last July, a wild baby elephant died in northeastern Mondulkiri province after becoming snared in a poacher’s trap in the jungle. The death raised a red flag for many conservation groups concerned with the ability of local authorities to protect the endangered species. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Garfield — By Jim Davis

Baby Blues — By Rick Kirkman & Jerry Scott

Conceptis Sudoku

Challenger

The grid must be so completed that every row, column and 3x3 box has every digit from 1 to 9 inclusive

DIRECTIONS: Fill each square with a number, one through nine. ■ Horizontal squares should add to totals on right. ■ Vertical squares should add to totals on bottom. ■ Diagonal squares through center should add to total in upper and lower right.

contract bridge By Steve Becker

Yesterday’s solution

THERE MAY BE MORE THAN ONE SOLUTION.

Answer to yesterday’s puzzle

Today’s Challenge Time 5 Minutes 58 Seconds Your Working Time __ Minutes __ Seconds

Word by Word

Mistake

In this March 19, 2017 photo, a flight attendant places a snake into a plastic trash bag on a Ravn Alaska flight between Aniak, Alaska and Anchorage. The snake escaped from a passenger on a previous flight. A flight attendant captured the reptile and placed it in a trash bag and stowed it in an overhead luggage compartment. (AP)

Yakhti

He who makes no mistakes makes nothing. Man la yokhti la yafal shaian.

Numbers thousand five hundred 7511 Seven eleven Sabat alaf wa khamso maah wa ahada ashar

ANCHORAGE, Alaska: Anna McConnaughy was flying to Alaska’s largest city when the announcement came over the intercom: a passenger on a previous flight had brought a pet snake on board. The passenger had gotten off the plane. The snake had not. “The pilot came, and said, ‘Guys, we have some loose snake on the plane, but we don’t know where it is,’” McConnaughy said Tuesday. Unlike the movie “Snakes On A Plane,” this one wasn’t venomous. Mostly, it was sleepy. A little boy, one of seven passengers on the Ravn Alaska commuter flight Sunday from the Alaska village of Aniak to Anchorage, was climbing on his seat when he spotted the slumbering snake. It was lying partially covered by a duffel bag near the back of the plane. “He said, ‘Oh, Mom, look at this. What’s that?’” McConnaughy said. “That’s how we figured out there was a snake sleeping in the corner.” (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ AUGUSTA, Maine: What a croc! A student at a University of Maine campus is in trouble for taking his five baby pet alligators inside a taxicab. The pet reptiles began crawling around the cab Tuesday after a box tipped over. Cab driver Frank Folsom said he helped round the reptiles, each longer than a foot. The Kennebec Journal reports that 20-year-old University of Maine at Augusta student Yifan Sun from China received a summons because alligators are not allowed to be kept in Maine. The Augusta Police Department says he’s charged with importing or possessing wildlife without a permit. Sun told police he kept the alligators as pets and was taking them with him to visit someone in Waterville. He declined to speak at length with a reporter from the newspaper. (AP)

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

SPORTS

39

China seek to lift fading WCup campaign against South Korea UAE eye home-and-away wins over Japan Portugal national soccer team head coach Fernando Santos poses with his award at the Portuguese Federation soccer awards ceremony in Estoril, outside Lisbon on March 20. Santos was chosen 2016 best Portuguese soccer coach. (AP)

Moran dies

E. Timor players ‘lose’ passports KUALA LUMPUR, March 22, (Agencies): Nine players who represented East Timor have had their passports annulled, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Wednesday, as the regional body continues to crack down on the use of falsified documents. “The Asian Football Confederation has received confirmation from the Ministry of Justice of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste that Timor-Leste passports held by nine footballers have been declared ‘null and void’,” an AFC statement said. “The players ... are not permitted to be registered in any competition either as Timor-Leste citizens or utilising Timor-Leste passports bearing their name.” All nine men were born in Brazil and include midfielder Diogo Santos Rangel, who played club football for Thailand’s Songkhla United last season, and Patrick Fabiano Alves Nobrega Luz, currently on the books of Kuwait’s Kazma Sports Club. Fellipe Bertoldo Dos S a n t o s , Ramon Saro, Jairo Pinheiro Palmeira Neto, J u n i o r Aparecido Guimaro De Souza, Paulo Moran Cesar Da Silva Martins, Paulo Helber Rosa Ribeiro and Rodrigo Sousa Silva complete the group. The AFC previously announced that East Timor had been expelled from the 2023 Asian Cup for falsifying documents after launching a probe, in conjunction with FIFA, in June last year into the players’ eligibility. The nine participated in a total of 29 matches in AFC events and seven matches falling under the jurisdiction of FIFA. East Timor

SOCCER forfeited all 29 matches played under AFC, which also issued a suspended fine of $56,000. The country’s football federation was also fined $20,000, while the AFC disciplinary committee ordered a three-year ban on general secretary Amandio de Araujo Sarmento. ❑





Once revered member of Liverpool’s fabled “boot room” Ronnie Moran died on Wednesday, aged 83, the club said. The former captain, who made 379 appearances for the club, spent five decades at Anfield and was a key cog in the coaching department during Liverpool’s most successful era. During his service with Liverpool, the club won 13 league titles — the first in 196364 when Moran, approaching the end of his playing career, was a defender in Bill Shankly’s side. After ending his playing career, Moran became part of Shankly’s backroom staff and was a constant presence at the club during the reigns of Bob Paisley, Joe Fagan, Kenny Dalglish, Graeme Souness and Roy Evans. Moran also rook on the role of caretaker manager in the early 1990s and led the team out in the 1992 FA Cup final against Sunderland. He retired in 1998. Tributes flooded in to Moran on Wednesday with Evans describing him as “one of the greats of Liverpool”. ❑





Spain defender Dani Carvajal has missed a national team training session because of the flu. The Spanish soccer federation says he did not practice Wednesday as a “precaution” ahead of the team’s World Cup qualifier against Israel on Friday. Reserve goalkeeper Pepe Reina had missed a practice session on Tuesday because of an undisclosed ailment. The federation says his return would depend on a re-evaluation of his condition.

CHANGSHA, China, March 22, (RTRS): China coach Marcello Lippi has sought to bolster player confidence ahead of a door-die World Cup qualifying clash with South Korea on Thursday as the Italian attempts to encourage his squad to display more selfbelief. China have picked up just two points in five games to sit bottom of Group A in AFC third round qualifying and defeat against Uli Stielike’s side in Changsha’s Helong Stadium would all but end any hope of a top-three spot for Lippi’s side. “Tomorrow’s game is the most important and our mentality is crucial,” the 68-year-old former Guangzhou Evergrande coach, who took over the job after Gao Hongbo stepped down in October, told reporters. China vs South Korea beIN SPORTS 4HD 14:35 local

Thailand vs Saudi Arabia beIN SPORTS 1HD 15:00 local

Iraq vs Australia beIN SPORTS 3HD 15:00 local

Syria vs Uzbekistan beIN SPORTS 5HD 15:00 local

UAE vs Japan beIN SPORTS 1HD 18:30 local

Qatar vs Iran beIN SPORTS 2HD 19:00 local

“I have repeated that very often to the players since day one and they have to forget about all the pressure and fear. “They are defending the honour of 1.4 billion Chinese people. Once they put on the jersey, they have to give their best. We are worse than no one in Asia as long as they play at their true level.” China, who have struggled for goals, are eight points behind secondplaced South Korea and nine adrift of leaders Iran as the top two teams advance to next year’s finals in Russia with a playoff spot available for the third-place finishers. “If we want to keep our dream of qualifying for the next year’s World Cup alive, we have to win three points tomorrow and my players and I both know that,” added Lippi, who led Italy to World Cup glory in 2006.

Mexico’s Javier Hernandez (left), and Jonathan dos Santos practice during a training session in Cuernavaca, Mexico on March 21. Mexico will face Costa Rica in a 2018 World Cup qualifying soccer match on March 24. (AP)

Iran travel to Doha to take on 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar (four points), who are in fifth place, with Carlos Queiroz’s side aiming to maintain their unbeaten run in the campaign. Syria (five points), who are forced to play their home games in Malaysia due to the security situation in their country, will host a third-placed Uzbekistan side (nine points) poised to capitalise on any errors by the two teams above them. In Group B, the United Arab Emirates will seek to complete homeand-away wins over five-time World Cup qualifiers Japan in Al Ain as

coach Mahdi Ali attempts to keep his country’s quest for a second appearance at the finals on track. The UAE won their opening game of the third phase of qualifying against Japan in Saitama last year but Ali stressed that result counted for nothing against Vahid Halilhodzic’s side, who will be without injured captain Makoto Hasebe. “Football doesn’t believe in history ... what happened in the previous game is in the past,” he said. “Football knows only one language: how prepared you are, how strong you are on the pitch, how much effort you give in the game.

“And I think we always play our football, always try to work hard, whether in training or on the pitch. And that makes the difference in the team.” Just two points cover the top four teams in the group, with the UAE in fourth on nine points from their five games, just a point behind leaders Saudi Arabia, who take on last-placed Thailand (one point). The Japanese are in second, level on 10 points with the Saudis, while Australia occupy third, also on nine points. Ange Postecoglou’s Socceroos will be aiming to maintain their drive for a

fourth consecutive World Cup appearance when they play Iraq (three points) in Tehran, where the Iraqis have been forced to play their home games due to security concerns. Australia’s Tim Cahill believes his appetite for playing football is as strong as ever and he is ready to bring that passion to bear to help drive his country to a fourth successive World Cup finals. Cahill scored the majority of his country’s goals at the last three World Cups and is back in the Socceroos squad for their crunch qualifier against Iraq in Tehran on Thursday.

‘We’ve discovered more players than La Masia’

Back to the future

Next Messi may be training at Club Parque

US WCup veterans ‘reunite’ with Arena

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina, (AP): Benjamin Palandella dribbles around a bigger boy who comes charging at him and shoots to the goal with shocking force for a 7-year-old player. Nearby, children jump to head a ball tethered on a rope, tip-toe over hoops and dribble around orange cones. The kids training in this concrete court in a Buenos Aires working class neighborhood play for Club Social Parque. It’s the same soccer talent factory where international stars like Diego Maradona, Carlos Tevez and Juan Roman Riquelme polished their skills as children. Spain’s “La Masia” youth academy may be the famed bedrock of Barcelona’s success and where Lionel Messi started training at 13 when he emigrated from Argentina. But Club Social Parque, a humble youth academy in Messi’s native country, has perhaps produced more world-class players than any other. At least 40 have become major international stars. During practice, many of the children wore Messi’s Barcelona jersey and dream of becoming Argentina’s next soccer great. The coach often credited for the academy’s success oversees their drills from the sideline. “At Club Parque, we work a lot on the fundamentals, the technique. We recognize talent from a young age and our eye has been sharpening with time,” said Ramon Maddoni, head scout at Parque and at the Boca Juniors club children’s division. “We’ve discovered more players than La Masia.” The 75-year-old coach likes to recite the names of the dozens of kids — more than 200 by his count — that he has coached and who went on to play with Argentina’s national team, local and Europe’s top clubs. He recalls how he promised Tevez that he’d be a worldclass striker long before he became a top goal scorer for clubs in England and Italy. Or how Juan Pablo Sorin would cry when Maddoni would line him up on defense, because he wanted to score goals. Sorin later played left back for Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain, and invited Maddoni on an all-expenses paid trip to Germany to watch him play with Argentina in the 2006 World Cup. These days, he recites names of new young talent. “Benjamin is different from the group,” he said about Palandella. “He can pass with his back turned, he uses both legs. I see some of Riquelme in the way he moves the ball. I see some of ‘Carlitos’ Tevez, in how he uses his hands and leans backward... He’s different.” After the training game, Benjamin changed into a Barcelona shirt adorned with Messi’s number 10 and continued to kick the ball even after the other kids had gone home. “I want to be like Messi and play for Barcelona,” he said. He likes how the Barcelona star “steps” on the ball, scores and shoots free kicks. Like Messi, “Benjamin is very shy, but he transforms himself on the field,” his father, Gaston Pallandela said. Former players say that the secret to Parque is Maddoni’s eye for spotting young talent. But also his insistence on practicing skill sets in reduced spaces and imperfect surfaces where kids learn how to react faster, giving them a competitive advantage when they eventually reach large professional fields. Players stay in touch with him, and often invite him to dinner when they come to Buenos Aires after playing with European clubs. “I often thought about Parque when I needed to resolve a situation on the field. I’d have these flashbacks of advice from the coach. And you incorporate all of that naturally because you’ve repeated it so many times,” said Cesar Lapaglia, a former professional player for Boca Juniors and

Spain’s Tenerife, who played at Parque under Maddoni from the ages of seven to 13. Club Social Parque was founded in 1949 when two smaller clubs made up of newspaper delivery men and factory workers merged in the neighborhood of Villa del Parque. Today, about 150 children as young as 6, and from all economic levels, train together twice a week and compete on the weekends in “Baby,” a popular soccer division played in small indoor courts. Some of the academy’s best talent blossomed under agreements to transfer its young players to clubs Argentinos Juniors and Boca Juniors. The deal with Boca was brokered in the 1990s by then-team president Mauricio Macri, a millionaire businessman turned politician who was elected Argentina’s president last year. Argentina is home to some of the world’s greatest players, but also corruption. Several generations of soccer bosses, trainers and scouts run the popular, lucrative and often unregulated business of discovering and selling young promises. There are hundreds of clubs like Parque in the capital

SOCCER alone. For the thousands of talented youngsters like Palandella, only a small percentage will become elite players. Some will struggle along the way to overcome injuries. Others will fall to the psychological pressure at home or on the field. An economic and governance crisis at the Argentine Football Association prompted FIFA to take control from its leadership last year and help pick an emergency panel to manage its affairs. Professional players recently waged a strike over unpaid wages that delayed the local league’s kickoff. “Unfortunately in this country, there are a lot of extreme circumstances where it seems the mark of happiness or success is all about money, and often, parents associate soccer with this,” said former professional player Lionel Gancedo, who began his career at Parque at age 5. “During this early stage of a young player, it’s critically important that they have responsible people taking care of their development.”

In this Nov 19, 2016 photo, Thiago ‘Coco’ Perugini controls the ball during a youth league game on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Argentina. “The day that he doesn’t want to play anymore, it all ends right here. He has to be a good person and study and he has the support of his parents,” said Thiago’s dad, Diego Perugini, a former lower division soccer player who is a coach at Parque. (AP)

SAN JOSE, California, March 22, (AP): DaMarcus Beasley, Clint Dempsey and Tim Howard were with Bruce Arena the last time the US coach guided the Americans into World Cup qualifying — way back 12 years ago. “It’s a long time for a coach, too, I might add,” cracked the 65-year-old Arena, “I had a lot more hair 12 years ago.” Jozy Altidore played for Arena during his debut season of Major League Soccer with the New York Red Bulls in 2006 and part of ’07. The Americans are counting on that familiarity and experience in big matches when they face Honduras at home Friday in World Cup qualifying. “He’s been around US Soccer for a very long time. Arena I think that helps him a bit in his approach,” Altidore said after Tuesday’s training in a steady rain at Avaya Stadium. “He’s a guy that everybody’s really comfortable with and there’s no adjustment period, which is good. He was one of my first pro coaches, so I know him well, his style and everything, so it’s nothing new. It’s good to have him back.” Arena’s roster features 19 of 26 players from Major League Soccer with the Monday night addition of Chris Wondolowski of the San Jose Earthquakes. There were just 10 MLS players leading into an embarrassing 4-0 loss to Costa Rica on Nov 15 — eight of whom dressed for the match after Howard got hurt against Mexico. That sent the Americans to their first 0-2 start in the final round of World Cup qualifying and led to Jurgen Klismnann’s ouster. Arena then returned 10 years after his firing. “I think Bruce is going to call

up the players that give him the best chance to win,” midfielder Michael Bradley said. “Regardless of where you play, regardless of what you’ve done, Bruce is going to rely on guys who are going to step on the field in big moments and go for it, be aggressive and fearless and represent him and the team and our country in the best possible way.” The Americans might need all the depth they have up front. Forward Jordan Morris didn’t practice again Tuesday while nursing an ankle injury sustained Sunday with the Seattle Sounders. He did gym work and rehabbed the ankle after spending Monday receiving treatment at the team hotel. His status for Wednesday’s

SOCCER practice remained unclear. Rain shortened on-field work and wet weather remained in the forecast for Wednesday and again Friday on match day. “Anybody that’s going to help the team, it doesn’t matter where you play,” Beasley said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s more MLS, more Europe, more Mexico, more Scandinavia, it doesn’t matter. As long as you know what it’s about to play for this team and play for this country you’re going to be a part of it, so it’s good to have that.” Beasley and Dempsey are 34. Howard, the starting goalkeeper the past two World Cups, turned 38 this month. There’s a comfort level for the three with their new, and old, coach, Arena. “They’re old, man, they’re some old cats,” Altidore said. “That’s a long time ago. Guys that we still need, guys with a lot of quality.” “They’re not bad players,” Arena said when asked about his 30-somethings still playing for him on the big stage more than a decade later. Dempsey and Howard are healthy again at last.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

SPORTS

40

South Korea Oly ringers sing their way onto the team

Bridgestone goes from Olympic rookie to IOC model NEW YORK, March 22, (Agencies): Japan’s Bridgestone Corp has gone from a rookie Olympic sponsor to a model for fan participation following their Fan Zone at the Olympic Golf Course for the 2016 Rio Games and will try to help other federations do likewise. Bridgestone, the world’s biggest tyre maker and a long-time maker of golf equipment, set up a demonstration area for fans unfamiliar with the game in golf’s return to the Olympics, which proved to be a hit and impressed IOC officials. “The feedback was incredible,” Phil

OLYMPICS Pacsi, Bridgestone’s vice president of sports marketing, told Reuters at The Sport Business Summit in New York on Tuesday. “The (International Olympic Committee) were thrilled and asked us to work with them to try to help to further them in other sports as a model for other federations.” Golf had previously not been on the Olympic program since 1904, and Brazilians were largely unfamiliar with the sport. “The IOC, trying to do new and different things, allowed us to be one of the first experiments with having a demonstration as close to the field of play that we could, with consumer

Recognition reiterates bank’s support to youth, sports

KFH honors Al-Abdulrazzaq for earning a place in Guinness World Records KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Kuwait Finance House (KFH) initiator, Jet Ski world champion Yousef Al-Abdulrazzaq earned himself a place in the Guinness World Records for achieving the world championship title three times. KFH’s strategic partnership with Al-Abdulrazzaq reiterates the ongoing commitment of the bank towards supporting the sport and the athletes who hoist Kuwait’s flag high in several international competitions. Al-Abdulrazzaq hailed KFH’s support and sponsorship which resonated significantly in achieving further Kuwaiti achievements in the international forums, indicating such achievements would put more responsibility in the next competitions. Executive Manager Group Public Relations and Media, Yousef activation with the game,” Pacsi said. “It worked great. “The focus was to try and educate the Brazilian population that really knows nothing about golf. It was really nice to see Brazilian families and kids picking up golf clubs and

Abdullah Al-Ruwaieh and the PR team received Al-Abdulrazzaq at KFH headquarters. Al-Ruwaieh congratulated him on the first of its kind achievement, emphasizing KFH’s commitments towards supporting the youth and the society as part of the bank’s social responsibility. He added that KFH spares no efforts in putting Kuwaiti National teams and individual athletes at the forefront of its priorities and pledges to continue motivating them to achieve further titles for the country. It is worth noting that the Union International Motonautique (UIM), officially declared Al-Abdulrazzaq a Guinness World Record Holder. This achievement was listed under the name of Kuwait. we hope it makes a lasting impression on the country.” The Fan Zone had putting areas, a long drive simulator and a closest to the pin simulator at three different bays, with local Brazilian profession-

Games and looking to see if there is something that can translate for the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Pacsi said. Meanwhile, to earn a place on South Korea’s team for next year’s Olympics, you may need to brush up on your singing. A rendition of the national anthem in front of immigration officials is a daunting but necessary hurdle faced by the many foreign-born athletes seeking to represent the home team at the Pyeongchang Games. Alexander Gamelin, an ice dancer from Boston, has the anthem memorized and is reading up on Korean culture and history ahead of his immigration interview. The aim is to become a naturalized citizen, then a South Korean Olympian.

Also: MOSCOW: Three Russian athletes

Yousef Abdullah Al-Ruwaieh honoring Abdulrazzaq.

als offering lessons to fans. “That was the first time that the IOC, the (sports) federation and a (sponsorship) partner worked together to put this type of showcasing on,” said Pacsi.

“The IOC came by bringing other partners and said, ‘what can we do now?’ So we’re working to see what kind of models we can put together.” Bridgestone is in the talking stage for plans at the Tokyo 2020 Summer

have been disqualified from the 2012 Olympics after failing doping retests, the country’s track federation said. Hammer throwers Maria Bespalova and Gulfiya Khanafeeva, and triple jumper Viktoria Valyukevich were all disqualified. None of them were medalists. The disqualifications of Bespalova and Khanafeeva mean all three Russian women who competed in the hammer throw in 2012 have tested positive for doping. Tatyana Lysenko was the original winner, but was stripped of her gold medal in October.

Mercedes looking to make early statement in Australia Hamilton stands poised to take title back MELBOURNE, March 22, (RTRS): Beefier cars and bulked-up drivers will hit Albert Park circuit on Sunday for Formula One’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix where many fans will be hoping at least one team can strike an early blow against dominant Mercedes. Revised aerodynamics and fatter tyres are among a raft of technical changes that pundits feel could bring the Silver Arrows back to earth after they swept the drivers and constructors’ championships for the last three years running.

Action shot taken during Bin Drai vs Zedan polo match.

Bin Drai had a successful premiere in Dubai Challenge Cup Bin Drai Polo defeated Zedan by 8 goals to 6 in today’s debut at the Dubai Challenge Cup, the fourth tournament of the Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series 2017, held under the patronage of HH Sheik Maktoum Bin Mohammed. Patron Saeed Bin Drai’s team played a great second half, with a great comeback in the fourth chukker, to defeat the Gold Cup champions in a very tough match.

In Bin Drai today´s line up, Ezequiel Martínez Ferrario replaced injured Francisco Elizalde. After a 1 goal apiece first chukker, Zedan took the lead in the match and achieved a 3 goal difference at half time. But in the fourth chukker Bin Drai put their engines at full speed to, first tie the game (4-4), and then keep on going in the final period for a 8 goals to 6 triumph.

Raúl Laplacette in Bin Drai and Pablo Mac Donough (Zedan), with 4 goals each, were the top scorers of the match. Match progression: Bin Drai: 1-1/ 1-2/ 1-4/ 4-4/ 8-6 The Dubai Challenge Cup continues tomorrow at the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club with Habtoor Polo playing against Wolves from 4 pm.

Jamaican duo charged with anti-doping violation

Fredericks urged to step down BERLIN, March 22, (RTRS): The head of European athletics has called on Frank Fredericks to step down from the world athletics’ (IAAF) federation council pending an investigation into allegations he accepted payments before the awarding of the 2016 Olympics to Rio de Janeiro. A statement issued on Wednesday by Svein Arne Hansen, who does not name Fredericks but clearly refers to his case, comes a day after IAAF president Sebastian Coe said the Namibian would stay on the council while the ethics board decides if an investigation is necessary. “In recent weeks the IAAF Council has been confronted with new and disturbing integrity-linked accusations related to one of its members,” Hansen said in his statement on Wednesday. “In my personal opinion, any individual who finds themselves under such suspicion now or in the future should step aside from all their sportrelated duties until the issue is resolved as it is not good for the organisation they serve.” As well as being in charge of European Athletics, Hansen, like Fredericks, is an IAAF Council member. “I want to emphasise that in the current case we are dealing with allegations and must always presume innocence until they are proven,” Hansen added. “However, should the allegations turn out to be true, they would reveal an extremely disappointing betrayal of athletics and its values, which would damage the sport’s image in the eyes of its supporters and the public.”

Former sprinter Fredericks, an International Olympic Committee member, stepped down two weeks ago as head of the IOC team evaluating bids to host the 2024 Games and has also removed himself from the IAAF task force looking into doping in

ATHLETICS Russia. French newspaper Le Monde had reported that Fredericks received almost $300,000 from Papa Massata Diack, the son of disgraced former IAAF President Lamine Diack, prior to the election of Rio as the 2016 Olympics hosts back in 2009. Fredericks has said he received the

In this March 29, 2011 file photo, former British athlete and head of the LOCOG, Sebastian Coe (right), speaks to former Namibian athlete and Chairman of the IOC Athletes’ Commission Frank Fredericks in the London 2012 Olympic Stadium, London. (AP)

money but denied any wrongdoing, saying it was for “services rendered” to promote the sport in Africa and had nothing to do with the Rio vote. The IOC has also launched an investigation into the matter. French prosecutors are investigating whether bribery was involved in the awarding of the 2021 world athletics championships to the US city of Eugene and are also looking into several other host city decisions. Meanwhile, Commonwealth Games 400 metres hurdles champion Kaliese Spencer and world championship relay medallist Riker Hylton have been charged with breaching anti-doping rules, Jamaican athletics officials confirmed on Tuesday. “We have been advised by JADCO (Jamaica Anti-Doping Commission) that athletes Kaliese Spencer and Riker Hylton have been referred to the Independent Anti Doping Disciplinary Panel for a hearing to be conducted in accordance with Article 8 of the JADCO Anti-doping Rules 2015,” the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) said in a statement. “Both athletes are alleged to have violated article 2.3 of the said rules which speaks to ‘Evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection’.” Under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, “evading, refusing or failing to submit to sample collection” is one of 10 possible ways that athletes or their support staff can be charged with an anti-doping doping rule violation. The maximum penalty is a four-year suspension.

Ferrari’s strong performance during winter testing has added to expectations that the sport is in for a shake-up, even as F1’s new American managers seek to rejuvenate a series plagued by inertia. And yet Mercedes, once again, appear primed to ride roughshod over new-season hopes for a changing of the guard. Nico Rosberg vacated his Mercedes seat in a shock retirement from the sport shortly after winning the drivers’ world championship but his old team

MOTOR RACING mate and three-times champion Lewis Hamilton stands poised to take the title back. German Rosberg thwarted Hamilton’s bid for a third successive title and the pair’s heated rivalry took its toll on both drivers. Rosberg’s Finnish replacement, Valtteri Bottas, is not seen as someone who will create as many headaches for Hamilton, who will be going for his third victory in Melbourne and 54th overall after winning the last four races of 2016. “I think he’s one of those guys who is not going to be that difficult to manage, especially in the battle with Lewis,” Rosberg said of former Williams driver Bottas in a video posting for Formula One sponsor UBS. “I don’t know if he will be able to challenge Lewis or even beat Lewis. That remains to be seen.” Bookmakers have Hamilton a heavy favourite to win at Albert Park, although the Briton has deflected the hype onto Ferrari and four-times F1 champion Sebastian Vettel. “I think Ferrari are bluffing and that they are a lot quicker than they are showing,” Hamilton said at testing in Barcelona. German Vettel has been busy playing down expectations of a Ferrari renaissance and has become a master of it since crossing to the ‘Scuderia’ from Red Bull in 2015. Great expectations followed he and team mate Kimi Raikkonen to Melbourne last year after a similarly promising testing in the leadup but neither driver won a race all season. Red Bull are the other team seen snapping at Mercedes’ heels if they can avoid reliability problems of the past and drivers Daniel Ricciardo and teenager Max Verstappen, seen as a champion-in-waiting, can keep their growing rivalry from spoiling their racing. “We’ve been on six dinners already this week. He brought me breakfast yesterday morning. We don’t share a room ... not yet,” Australian Ricciardo joked to reporters on Wednesday when asked about their relationship.

Photo taken from the event.

NBK sponsors Flare sports fest KUWAIT CITY, March 22: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) sponsored the Flare sports festival. The festival was organized by flare fitness at Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST). The sponsorship comes in line with NBK’s vital role it plays in supporting all students and youths. This sponsorship aims to spread physical awareness and attract youth to participate in sporting events. “NBK’s sponsorship and support to this sports event comes in line with the bank’s customary and ongoing spirit of corporate citizenship as well as the vital role it plays in supporting youth and students,” said NBK Public Relations Executive Manager, Abdul Mohsen Al-Rushaid. “NBK always strives to empower youth to realize their potentials, providing different supportive opportunities.” Al-Rushaid added “NBK has always considered supporting youth an essential part of its social and philanthropic outreach which comes in line with the bank’s com-

Abdul Mohsen Al-Rushaid

mitment to encourage a meritbased educational system that promotes the best and the brightest the country has to offer.” The Flare sports festival included two sports challenges and Gallery for Kuwaiti Youth Project. The competitions in this festival comprised a range of physical challenges looks like rounds depends on the strength, flexibility and endurance, which contributes to raise the spirit of positive competition among student circles.

British wrestler Sandhu gets 4-yr ban for doping violation LONDON, March 22, (RTRS): British freestyle wrestler Chinu Sandhu, who won bronze at the Commonwealth Games in 2014, has been handed a four-year ban for a doping violation. Sandhu tested positive for an anabolic steroid in an out-ofcompetition test administered on Sept 20 and an independent National Anti-Doping Panel (NDAP) upheld the charge against him. The 29-year-old had contested the charge on the grounds that he had not acted intentionally and that the positive test resulted from taking a contaminated supplement. “Chinu Sandhu, an experienced British wrestler, has been suspended for a period of four years following a proven AntiDoping Rule Violation (ADRV)

...,” the NDAP said on the Sport Resolutions website (www.sportresolutions.co.uk) on Wednesday. “Mr Sandhu’s ban will run from Oct 14, 2016 until Oct 14, 2020,” the statement added. UK Anti-Doping chief Nicole Sapstead said that Sandhu’s reputation had been “tainted because of his own actions. “Athletes are solely responsible for any substance which is found in their system, regardless of whether there is an intention to cheat or not. “Chinu Sandhu was one of this country’s leading freestyle wrestlers having won a bronze medal at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and represented Great Britain at the European Games in Baku in 2015,” she added.

ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017

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Marjan takes honours in the region’s division at MENA Tour’s Royal Mohammedia Open

Blistering front nine propels Dutch amateur Verlaar to maiden win MOHAMMEDIA, Morocco, March 22: Pierre Junior Verlaar conjured a piece of magic on the front nine to win the MENA Tour’s Royal Golf Mohammedia Open in style at Royal Golf D’Anfa Club Tuesday. Starting the final day three shots off the pace, the 18-year-old Dutch prodigy blistered the outward nine with six birdies en route to a bogeyfree 65 to reach nine-under for the tournament, beating Morocco’s Ahmed Marjan and England’s Andrew Marshall by two shots. With this convincing victory, Verlaar became the second amateur after India’s Dubai-based Rayhan

Thomas to win a MENA Golf Tour event. His closing 65 also matched the lowest final round by a winner, tying England’s Joe Heraty’s round at the 2016 Sahara Kuwait Championship. “I am really very, very happy with the way I finished against a strong field. I think I played some amazing golf on the front nine,” said Verlaar after receiving the winner’s trophy from Fouad Akasbi, president of Royal Golf D’Anfa and Vice President of the Royal Moroccan Golf Federation. Reda Bennis, director general of the Royal Moroccan Golf Fed-

eration, Warchan Ali of Royal Golf D’Anfa, Majid Bennis of HLO and Mohamed Juma Buamaim, chairman of the MENA Tour, were also present. “I may not have picked up a shot on the back nine, but played very steady. The MENA Tour is doing a great job in providing a perfect platform for amateurs likes me to compete alongside professionals which is great,” said Verlaar, who joined the tour last year. Experienced Marshall, who started the final round a good five shots behind, matched Verlaar’s closing 65 to surge up the lead-

erboard as Marjan, the only Arab winner on the MENA Tour, topped the MENA Division, one shot ahead of his compatriot Mohamed Belaroussia.

GOLF Overnight leader Lee Corfield of England slipped to tied eighth on four under after carding a final round 73 while Zane Scotland, a 10-time winner on the tour, moved into a sixway tie for 43rd after closing with a 75 along with Danny Poulter, the elder brother of European Ryder Cup

hero Ian. Elsewhere, former England cricketer Craig Kieswetter settled for 52nd on 10 over after signing for a 77 as Craig Hinton, the winner of the 2016 MENA Tour Order of Merit title, settled for tied 50th on seven over, six shots ahead of India’s Rayhan Thomas, who carded a final round 79. The next event on the MENA Tour schedule is the Ras Al Khaimah Classic to be held at Tower Links Golf Club from April 24 to 26. An initiative of the Shaikh Maktoum Golf Foundation, the MENA Golf Tour was created in 2011 with the aim

of developing golf in the region. It is affiliated to R&A, the worldwide golf governing body based in the home of golf, St Andrews, and the Arab Golf Federation and enjoys the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) status. Multiple European Tour starts, including the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, the Hassan II Trophy and the Maybank Championship Malaysia in addition to full playing privileges on the Sunshine Tour and exemptions into the Final Stage of the Asian Tour Q-School for the leading three professionals are some of the added incentives for the MENA Golf Tour members.

Penguins clinch playoff berth with 3-1 victory over Sabres Ovechkin shines as Caps snap Elliott’s streak, top Flames

A photo taken during the MENA Tour’s Royal Golf Mohammedia Open awarding ceremony.

NFL Roundup Newton to undergo surgery

Ex-49ers Kaepernick donates $50,000 to ‘Meals on Wheels’ SAN FRANCISCO, March 22, (Agencies): Meals on Wheels has confirmed a $50,000 donation from former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. The group that provides food for seniors in need thanked Kaepernick for his donation on Tuesday. It came a day after President Donald Trump took a swipe Kaepernick during a campaignstyle rally in Kentucky by taking credit for the lack of suitors for the free agent. Kaepernick’s refusal to Kaepernick stand for “The Star-Spangled Banner” ahead of 49ers games last season as a protest of police treatment of minorities became a topic of national debate. ❑ ❑ ❑ Star quarterback Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers will undergo surgery to repair a partially torn rotator cuff next Thursday, but expects to be ready for the start of training camp, the team announced. Newton, the 2015 league MVP, will begin an early throwing program 12 weeks following the surgery. Should he progress well from there, Newton will resume throwing with the team at 16 weeks. ❑ ❑ ❑ The Atlanta Falcons announced a five-year contract extension through June 2022 for team president and CEO Rich McKay. McKay, 58, joined the Falcons as the team’s general manager in 2004. He was promoted to president in 2008 after the Falcons hired Thomas Dimitroff. ❑ ❑ ❑ Colin Kaepernick is the latest target of President Donald Trump’s verbal jabs. At a rally in Kentucky on Monday, Trump took credit for the fact that no NFL team has signed the free agent, saying he wanted to share the news with “the people of Kentucky because they like it when people actually stand for the American flag.” ❑ ❑ ❑ The Miami Dolphins locked up linebacker Kiko Alonso with a

contract that runs through the 2020 season. Miami tendered Alonso at the first-round restricted free agent compensation level of $3.91 million for 2017. ❑ ❑ ❑ Unrestricted free agent wide receiver Kamar Aiken signed a one-year deal with the Indianapolis Colts, the team announced. Aiken, 27, played for the Baltimore Ravens last season, and had 29 catches for 328 yards and one touchdown. He had a better season in 2015, when he posted team highs in receptions (75), receiving yards (944) and receiving touchdowns (five). ❑ ❑ ❑ Manti Te’o and the Saints have agreed on a two-year deal to bring the former Chargers linebacker and defensive co-captain to New Orleans, ESPN reports. Last season, Te’o sustained a season-ending Achilles’ tendon tear in Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts. ❑ ❑ ❑ The Minnesota Vikings finalized their agreement with wide receiver Adam Thielen. The contract extension is reportedly worth $17 million over three years with $11 million guaranteed. Thielen was a restricted free agent and the Vikings initially tendered him at the second-round compensation level of $2.746 million. ❑ ❑ ❑ Former San Francisco 49ers running back Shaun Draughn has agreed to a contract with the New York Giants, according to multiple reports. The Giants also retained one of their core defensive players when they re-signed linebacker Keenan Robinson. ❑ ❑ ❑ Defensive end Tyson Alualu agreed to sign a two-year deal to join the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team announced. Alualu spent his first seven seasons with Jacksonville after being selected by the Jaguars with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. ❑ ❑ ❑ North Carolina quarterback Mitchell Trubisky completed approximately 63 of 70 passes during a

BUFFALO, New York, March 22, (AP): Nick Bonino scored the go-ahead goal with 5:29 left and the Pittsburgh Penguins clinched their 11th straight playoff berth with a 3-1 win over the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday. Sidney Crosby and Conor Sheary also scored, and Matt Murray made 29 saves. The Penguins (46-17-9) improved to 8-1-1 in their past 10 and are in the hunt to finish with the NHL’s best record. Sam Reinhart scored for a Sabres team that’s sputtering on offense. Buffalo has just five goals in regulation in its past five games.

Capitals 4, Flames 2 In Washington, Alex Ovechkin had a goal and two assists, TJ Oshie scored his 30th of the season and the NHLleading Washington Capitals defeated the surging Calgary Flames.

ICE HOCKEY The top line of Ovechkin, Oshie and Nicklas Backstrom dominated the entire game. Ovechkin led all players with a season-high 11 shots, finally beating Flames goaltender Brian Elliott late in the third period for his 29th goal.

Devils 3, Rangers 2, OT In Newark, New Jersey, Joseph Blandisi scored on an odd-man rush with 54.6 seconds left on the clock in overtime, and New Jersey handed New York a rare road loss. John Quenneville set up Blandisi’s third goal of the season, and Quenneville and Taylor Hall also scored for the Devils. New Jersey got just its second win in 14 games (2-10-2) behind 38 saves by Cory Schneider, including a stop on Kevin Hayes in close just before Blandisi’s winner.

Senators 3, Bruins 2 In Boston, Kyle Turris scored twice and Craig Anderson made 33 saves as Ottawa beat Boston to end a four-game losing streak. Mike Hoffman had two assists for the Senators, who moved six points ahead of Boston for second place in the Atlantic Division with their first win since March 11.

San Jose Sharks’ Patrick Marleau (12) gains control of the puck against Minnesota Wild’s Jared Spurgeon (46) in the second period of an NHL hockey game on March 21, in St Paul, Minnesota. (AP)

NHL Results/Standings WASHINGTON, March 22, (RTRS): Results and standings from the NHL games on Tuesday. St Louis Vancouver Minnesota Winnipeg Detroit Arizona

Chicago Minnesota St Louis Nashville Winnipeg Dallas Colorado

San Jose Edmonton Anaheim Calgary Los Angeles Vancouver Arizona

4 Colorado 5 Chicago (OT) 3 San Jose 3 Philadelphia 2 Montreal (OT) 5 Tampa Bay Western Conference Central Division W L OTL GF 47 20 6 222 44 22 6 235 39 28 5 201 36 25 11 212 33 33 7 220 29 33 10 196 20 49 3 140 Pacific Division W L OTL GF 42 24 7 198 39 24 9 209 38 23 11 186 41 28 4 203 34 31 7 175 29 34 9 166 27 37 9 178

2 4 2 2 1 3

Carolina Ottawa Pittsburgh New Jersey Washington

GA 183 180 195 202 232 233 238

Pts 100 94 83 83 73 68 43

Montreal Ottawa Boston Toronto Tampa Bay Florida Buffalo Detroit

GA 169 186 178 197 181 211 233

Pts 91 87 87 86 75 67 63

Washington Pittsburgh Columbus NY Rangers NY Islanders Carolina Philadelphia New Jersey

4 Florida 3 Boston 3 Buffalo 4 NY Rangers (OT) 4 Calgary Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L OTL GF 41 23 9 200 40 24 8 191 38 29 6 209 33 23 15 216 34 29 9 197 31 30 11 183 30 32 12 183 29 32 11 180 Metropolitan Division W L OTL GF 47 17 8 232 46 17 9 252 47 18 6 228 45 24 4 233 33 26 12 210 31 27 13 186 33 31 8 188 27 33 12 168

3 2 1 2 2

GA 182 187 195 210 202 208 214 213

Pts 91 88 82 81 77 73 72 69

GA 161 199 164 193 218 206 216 211

Pts 102 101 100 94 78 75 74 66

Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point in the standings and are not included in the loss column (L).

Red Wings 2, Canadiens 1, OT In Montreal, Anthony Mantha scored at 4:10 of overtime to lift Detroit over Montreal. Mantha got his 15th goal of the season on a wrist shot from close range to give the Red Wings their third win in four games. Justin Abdelkader scored early in the first period for Detroit. Artturi Lehkonen tied it for the Canadiens at 17:31 of the third.

Radim Vrbata and Connor Murphy.

Hurricanes 4, Panthers 3 In Sunrise, Florida, Jeff Skinner scored two goals, including the gamewinner with 3:55 left, to lead Carolina past Florida. Sebastian Aho had a goal and an assist for the Hurricanes, and Teuvo Teravainen also scored. Cam Ward stopped 33 shots.

Coyotes 5, Lightning 3

Jets 3, Flyers 2

In Tampa, Florida, Oliver EkmanLarsson had a goal and an assist during Arizona’s three-goal third period, Louis Domingue stopped 36 shots and the Coyotes damaged Tampa Bay’s playoff hopes. Arizona, with the NHL’s secondworst record, also got goals from Christian Fischer, Christian Dvorak,

In Winnipeg, Manitoba, Blake Wheeler and Mark Scheifele each had a goal and two assists, and Winnipeg edged Philadelphia for its third straight victory. Mathieu Perreault added a goal and an assist to help the Jets post their second three-game winning streak of the season.

The teams were tied 1-all until Wheeler beat goalie Steve Mason at 7:02 of the third period.

Blues 4, Avalanche 2 In Denver, Magnus Paajarvi and Jaden Schwartz scored in the third period to send the St. Louis Blues past Colorado. Patrik Berglund had two goals, including an empty-netter to seal it for the Blues. They tied idle Nashville for third place in the Central Division with 83 points, and St. Louis holds the tiebreaker by virtue of more regulation and overtime wins.

Canucks 5, Blackhawks 4 In Chicago, Daniel Sedin scored a power-play goal 2:12 into overtime and the Canucks beat Chicago to end a six-game losing streak.

With his twin brother Henrik Sedin screening goalie Scott Darling, Daniel Sedin connected on a high, long shot. The score withstood a video review for goaltender interference and snapped the Blackhawks’ five-game winning streak.

Wild 3, Sharks 2 In St Paul, Minnesota, Martin Hanzal and Charlie Coyle scored 15 seconds apart for Minnesota late in the second period, and the Wild stopped a five-game losing streak. David Schlemko and Patrick Marleau had goals for the Sharks shortly before the second intermission, too, giving each team two scores in a 63-second span to set a record for the fastest four-goal stretch in Wild history.

Qatar’s Al-Attiyah and Abu Dhabi’s Al-Qassimi head bumper car entry

Massive Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge entry proves strength of Cross-Country Rallying ABU DHABI, UAE, March 22: The 27th Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Powered by Nissan takes centre stage in the UAE’s sporting calendar next week (March 31-April 6). Officials at the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE have left nothing to chance in terms of safety and medical facilities for the impressive list of 39 car crews and 45 motorcycle and quad riders who feature on the entry list for the third round of the 2017 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country Rallies and the opening round of the 2017 FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Cup. Cross-country rallying is a gruelling endurance sport, where competitors are not only competing against each other, but also against some of the harshest weather conditions on the planet. Temperatures in the Rub AlKhali (Empty Quarter) can reach the high forties Centigrade at this time of

year and fatigue, coupled with severe dehydration, pose challenges to competitors, organisers, volunteers and medical teams alike during five days of punishing competition. The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge will benefit from a 23-strong team working alongside the ATCUAE’s chief medical officer Sean Petherbridge.

cal technologies. Infra Scanners will be available for the

first time, enabling medical staff to check whether an injured competitor may have

RALLYING They are a truly international team from the UK, Australia, the USA, Sweden, Ireland and Egypt and consist of doctors, paramedics, trauma specialists, science research staff and EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians). Many are volunteers with several years’ experience at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and, this year, they will also benefit from new medi-

A file photo of Nasser Saleh Al-Attiyah in action at the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge.

a possible bleed on the brain. Each of the three medical helicopters supplied by Abu Dhabi Aviation will be equipped with one of the infrared devices. There will also be two CAERvest® (cooling vests) in each helicopter. They enable the body to be cooled rapidly and are vital for the rapid emergency treatment of heat stroke or cardiac arrest. Rehydration solutions will also be supplied to combat the possible effects of dehydration. These electrolyte drinks contain water, salts and sugars and aid the recovery process. The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge will also receive valuable support from Al Ain Water for a 12th consecutive year. UAE’s number 1 bottled drinking water manufacturers will supply drinking water to the entire ADDC caravan. “Research suggests that dehydration poses severe risks to the safety of competitors, volunteers and officials working in inclement desert conditions and

high temperatures,” said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, rally founder and President of the ATCUAE. “Dehydration reduces concentration levels and this can lead to mistakes, slower reaction times and potential problems. That’s why we are grateful to the ongoing valuable support of Al Ain Water and place great reliance on our professional medical teams.” This year’s event takes place under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the Ruler’s representative in Al-Dafra region, and has invaluable support from the Western Region Municipality, Abu Dhabi Municipality, the UAE Army, Abu Dhabi Police, National Ambulance Service, Yas Marina Circuit, ADNOC, Abu Dhabi Aviation, Al Ain Water, Abu Dhabi Waste Management, Rotana and Centro Hotel — Yas Island, the Qasr Al-Sarab Resort and Al-Forsan Circuit.

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Next payment deadline could be April 7

Empty offices, wary lenders, China’s faltering bid for Milan

Champions of IDAK Cricket, Poly Pirates with chief guest.

Eastern Eagles take women’s title

Poly Pirates lift IDAK Cricket trophy KUWAIT CITY, March 22: Fighting all odds, Poly Pirates sprung a surprise at the IDAK Cricket Tourney 2017 to lift the Cricket title and zoomed ahead in the points table of ‘IDAK Sports & Games Championship 2016-17’. Although they did not manage to win any of their league matches, the well experienced side played ‘smart cricket’ in the thrilling final to beat the ‘well balanced and young’, Eastern Eagles side by 4 runs. Earlier Eastern Eagles remained unbeaten in both their league matches defeating a strong Central Commandos and Poly Pirates. The opening match between Poly Pirates and Central Commandos ended in an exciting tie after both teams ended 61 for 5 in allotted 10 overs. In the second match of the day, Eastern Eagles drowned

CRICKET pre-tournament favorites, Central Commandos by 5 runs with some accurate bowling and superb fielding. In the final league match, needing just a better run rate to enter the finals, Poly Pirates made sure they cross the stipulated run rate before getting defeated by Eastern Eagles by 3 wickets. High light of the tournament were the disciplined bowling unit of Eastern Eagles under Dr Nino John, who bagged the “Best Bowler” award. In batting department, Poly Pirates openers Dr Jitendra Ariga and Dr Mithun Ravindranath ensured their team get a solid start in all three matches and Dr Jitendra Ariga bagged “Best Batsman” award for his splendid show with the bat. Dr Bobby Joseph of Poly Pirates got the “Best Fielder” award. In the women’s Maiden Over contest, Eastern Eagles took the title while Poly Pirates became the Runner’s Up. Dr Tiny received the award for Best Bowler. Dr Joe Daniel received the much coveted, ‘Flight Ticket sponsored by Caesars Travels’ by predicting the maximum number of correct results in the “IDAK- Caesars Predict, Win & Fly Contest”.

Best of the Rest Lampaert wins Flemish classic ahead: Belgium’s Yves Lampaert won the Dwars door Vlaanderen race on Wednesday ahead of former world champion Philippe Gilbert as the Quick-Step Floors team secured a 1-2 finish in the cobbled road event. The Belgian team rode a perfect tactical race, with Gilbert triggering the decisive breakaway before the 25-year-old Lampaert, a former judoka who took up cycling at the age of 17, came through for the biggest victory of his career. Gilbert easily won the sprint for the runner-up spot, with Alexey Lutsenko completing the podium ahead of Luke Durbridge. The race was marred by an accident involving American rider Kiel Reijnen, who was taken to the hospital after crashing just before the Eikenberg climb, about 60 kilometers from the finish. The TrekLampaert Segafredo rider was squeezed off the side of the road, and went over his handlebars and into a ditch. His team later tweeted that Reijnen “appears to be okay, with nothing serious” and that “They are doing X-rays to be sure.” Gilbert, the Belgian champion, attacked with 77.5 kilometers to go, catching up with six breakaway riders as a group of 21 formed at the front. With pre-race favorites Sep Vanmarcke and Arnaud Demare having missed the break, their Cannondale and FDJ teams organized the chase as the front-runners quickly opened up a 35-second lead. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑

Valverde takes Tour lead: Alejandro Valverde took the overall lead in the Tour of Catalonia on Tuesday after fellow Movistar rider Jose Joaquin Rojas was penalized for helping teammates during the team time trial. Movistar set the best time in the 41-kilometer (25-mile) time trial, but judges later said Rojas was among the team’s riders who pushed each other during the Tour’s second stage and gave him a three-minute penalty. Two other riders also were penalized. Movistar dominated the time trial, finishing two seconds ahead of BMC Racing Team. Tour de France winner Chris Froome finished 46 seconds off the lead with Team Sky. Froome is 18th in the overall standings. The week-long race in northeastern Spain concludes on Sunday in Barcelona. Riders on Wednesday face a stage of 188 kilometers (116 miles) from Mataro to La Molina. (AP) ❑ ❑ ❑ ‘United must aim for Europe glory’: Manchester United should focus on winning the Europa League this season, which would bring the club a trophy they have never won and secure qualification for next season’s

Champions League, former manager Alex Ferguson has said. United are fifth in the Premier League and sit four points behind fourth-placed Liverpool, though they have two games in hand on the Merseyside club. A top-four finish would ensure Champions League qualification but Ferguson, who was in charge at Old Trafford for some 27 years, believes United have a great opportunity to qualify by winning Europe’s second-tier club competition. “The thing is, we’ve never won the Europa League,” he told ESPN. “We’ve never won UEFA Cup, what it used to be. And we’ve got a great draw. I’m not saying it’s a certainty, but they’ve got a great chance. “It’s still a European trophy. And if you win it, you get into the Champions League. The incentive is greater to do that.” (RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑

‘Be ready to shut down Bale’: Ireland assistant coach Roy Keane has urged his side to relish the challenge of facing Wales forward Gareth Bale, while making sure the Real Madrid man has no room in which to operate in their World Cup qualifier on Friday. “Bale is a world class player,” Martin O’Neill’s assistant told reporters, adding that players of Bale’s ability always found a way to make an impact in a game. “Players and coaches have tried to come up with a plan (to stop him) before, but top players figure it out and affect the game anyway. “You want to play with the best and against the best, and we’ll have a chance on Friday because Bale is up there with some of the top players in the world.” Bale, who was instrumental in Wales’ surprise run to Euro 2016 semifinals in France, has netted four goals so far in the World Cup qualifying campaign..(RTRS) ❑ ❑ ❑ The runs will come, says Warner: David Warner has never suffered from a lack of confidence and his experience of battling through previous run droughts has the Australian opener convinced he will soon be getting big scores on the board again. The 30-year-old lefthander has been an almost singular disappointment for the tourists so far in their enthralling test series in India, having scored just 131 runs in six innings. Warner experienced a similar downturn in fortunes during the last Australian summer and he started the second test against Pakistan on Boxing Day without a test century to his name for almost a year. He responded with a match-turning 144 in Melbourne and followed that up with an astonishing century in a single session in the third test in Sydney. “You’ve got to keep telling yourself you’ve done the hard yards, you just don’t lose it overnight,” he told reporters in Ranchi. “There were tough periods where I kept on thinking to myself, ‘Am I actually doing the work at training?’ You always question yourself, are you doing the right things at training and are you preparing as well as you can? (RTRS)

CHANGXING, China/MILAN, March 22, (RTRS): The paper trail for an $800 million bid by little-known Chinese investors for AC Milan, the seven-time European soccer champions, leads via Luxembourg, Hong Kong and a network of shell companies to the deserted 11th floor of the World Trade Centre in Changxing, two hours west of Shanghai. The storied club announced the sale last August and it was expected to close by the end of last year. But the bidding group — identified by Milan’s owners as SinoEurope Sports Investment Management Changxing Co Ltd — has pushed back the payment of cash instalments and is negotiating a further delay in closing the deal, two people close to the matter have told Reuters. The acquisition, announced at the height of China’s $3 billion European soccer splurge, has become something of a lightning rod for Beijing’s crackdown on overseas vanity deals as it tries to check capital outflows amid a weaker yuan currency. It also highlights the often obscure and complex network of investors and shell companies behind some Chinese overseas bids — an attraction for those maybe seeking a quiet way to move money abroad, but a potential risk for others involved. The bidders have paid 200 million euros ($215.7 million) in three

SOCCER tranches to Milan’s owner Fininvest, the family company of Italian media tycoon and former prime minister Silvio Berlusconi. They are due to pay an outstanding 320 million euros and are expected to inject a further 100 million euros into the team. A likely new deadline for payment is April 7. The agreement values AC Milan at 740 million euros ($788 million) including 220 million euros of debt. As pressure from Beijing increases on foreign exchange acquisitions, key investors are pulling back, say those close to the matter. AC Milan announced the sale with no public signing or press conference, just a few hand-out photographs. The club named only two individual investors — Li Yonghong and Han Li — along with state-linked Haixia Capital and other undisclosed “state-controlled entities”. It’s unclear how many of those remain. China Construction Bank (CCB), one of the highest-profile known backers, had pledged to invest around 150 million euros, but backed out of the consortium last month, one of the sources said, prompting the group to ask for more time to pay. Haixia Capital, which is owned by arms of the provincial Fujian government, State Development and Investment Corp (SDIC) and Taiwanese conglomerate Fubon Group, is still on board, but only in a financing role, the person said. Among the direct investors, only Li Yonghong remains, the person added. Li is not well known in China or in soccer. China-based sources at CCB said that recent tighter capital controls would impact the investment, but they were not aware of how the deal would be finalised.

CCB, Haixia Capital and Fubon declined to comment. A spokeswoman for SDIC said she wasn’t aware of the deal, and noted that Haixia Capital makes its own investment decisions. Reuters could not reach the Fujian government for comment. Neither Li nor Han could be contacted. Berlusconi’s son, Pier Silvio, said last week he had no direct information on the deal, but noted that if something were to go wrong there would be no financial damage for Fininvest, as “a step backwards by the buyers would leave something concrete in our hands” — referring to the Chinese payments already made. The head of China’s foreign exchange regulator this week became the latest high-profile official to point the finger at overseas deals, including soccer, suggesting some were simply a way to ghost funds out of the country. He gave no specifics. “If these purchases help improve the standard of Chinese football, then I think that’s a good thing,” said Pan Gongsheng, head of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange. “But is that what’s really happening? A lot of Chinese companies already have high levels of debt and then borrow another large sum to make overseas purchases. Others pretend to be investing, but are actually just moving their assets.” Italy’s football association, the FIGC, says inclusion in its premier soccer league requires solid finances and transparency, with buyers having to disclose financial and banking qualifications within a month of purchase. The investment vehicle SinoEurope Sports holds together a web of firms with names like Rossoneri Sport and Sino-Europe Milan. Most are also linked to Chen Huashan, the listed legal representative. Reuters could not independently reach Chen. The use of shell companies in deals is not unusual. But soccer dealmakers and lawyers said the complex consortium put the deal at greater risk as Beijing goes cold on mega deals. Charles Wang, a London-based sports lawyer at Mishcon de Reya, said the opaque structure of such deals could increase the risks overseas, though the anonymity it provides is a lure for some investors in China.

AC Milan’s Cristian Zapata (right), and Genoa’s Adel Taarabt vie for the ball during a Serie A soccer match between Milan and Genoa, at the San Siro Stadium in Milan, Italy on March 18. (AP)

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Raptors end 11-game skid against Bulls Leonard, Spurs outlast Timberwolves 100-93 TORONTO, March 22, (AP): DeMar DeRozan had 42 points, and the Toronto Raptors ended an 11-game losing streak against the Chicago Bulls by rallying for a wild 122-120 overtime win on Tuesday. DeRozan shot 17 of 38 from the floor and also collected eight assists. Cory Joseph had 19 points for the Raptors, and Serge Ibaka scored 16 before he was ejected for his role in a memorable fight with Robin Lopez during the third quarter.

Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) drives to the net to set up teammate Patrick Patterson (54) as Chicago Bulls forward Jimmy Butler (21) and forward Paul Zipser (16) defend during overtime in an NBA basketball game in Toronto on March 21. (AP)

NBA Results/Standings WASHINGTON, March 22, (RTRS): Results and standings from the NBA games on Tuesday: American Football Conference LA Clippers Milwaukee San Antonio Golden State

133 LA Lakers 93 Portland 100 Minnesota 112 Dallas Eastern Conference

109 90 93 87

New Orleans Brooklyn Miami Toronto

Atlantic Division Boston Toronto NY Knicks Philadelphia Brooklyn Cleveland Indiana Milwaukee Detroit Chicago Washington Atlanta Miami Charlotte Orlando

W 45 42 27 26 14

L 26 29 43 44 56 Central Division W L 46 23 36 34 35 35 34 37 33 38 Southeast Division W L 42 28 37 33 35 36 31 39 26 45

PCT .634 .592 .386 .371 .200

GB 3 17-1/2 18-1/2 30-1/2

Utah Oklahoma City Denver Portland Minnesota

PCT .667 .514 .500 .479 .465

GB 10-1/2 11-1/2 13 14

Golden State LA Clippers Sacramento Phoenix LA Lakers

PCT .600 .529 .493 .443 .366

GB 5 7-1/2 11 16-1/2

San Antonio Houston Memphis Dallas New Orleans

95 Memphis 98 Detroit 112 Phoenix 112 Chicago (OT) Western Conference Northwest Division W L PCT 43 28 .606 40 30 .571 33 37 .471 32 38 .457 28 42 .400 Pacific Division W L PCT 57 14 .803 43 29 .597 27 43 .386 22 49 .310 20 51 .282 Southwest Division W L PCT 54 16 .771 49 22 .690 40 31 .563 30 40 .429 30 41 .423

82 96 97 120

GB 2-1/2 9-1/2 10-1/2 14-1/2 GB 14-1/2 29-1/2 35 37 GB 5-1/2 14-1/2 24 24-1/2

Making big plays on biggest stage

Lecomte helps Baylor get to Sweet 16 WACO, Texas, March 22, (AP): Manu Lecomte is like so many other players who made the NCAA Tournament. They grew up with dreams of making big plays on the biggest stage. Like his four-point play to start a personal scoring surge late in the second-round game that finally put Baylor ahead to stay and helped push the Bears to another Sweet 16. What is different about Lecomte (pronounced La-conn-t) is that he grew up in Belgium, where soccer is the favorite sport. He wasn’t exactly on the recruiting trail for Division I basketball coaches, and nobody else in his family played basketball, not even the uncle who was a coach and taught him the game. “I guess it’s unique,” he said. “When I was 4 or 5 years old, and he just got me started, and he started training me every day, and I just loved it. I loved the competition, I loved the game.” Baylor (27-7) will be in New York to play South Carolina at Madison

BASKETBALL Square Garden on Friday night. Lecomte was 3-of-15 shooting in the tournament before making a go-ahead 3-pointer while being fouled with 4:40 left Sunday against Southern Cal. That was the first of his eight straight points in a 45-second span, and 12 the rest of the way in an 82-78 win. “That dude makes huge plays, huge plays. He’s one of those guys, he likes a challenge,” said new North Texas coach Grant McCasland, the former Baylor assistant who recruited Lecomte. “You look at his size and know he’s always had to fight uphill.” Listed at 5-foot-11, Lecomte is the only player on the Baylor roster shorter than 6-3. When still in Belgium, Lecomte would watch NBA games online, as well as college games and the NCAA Tournament. He was already familiar with those bright Baylor jerseys, though he took another path to get to Waco. Former Miami assistant coach Michael Huger had played pro basketball in Belgium and knew Lecomte’s coaches. The Hurricanes offered him a spot without ever seeing him in person. “I got lucky,” Lecomte said. “That was one of the only schools that really offered me. I just needed one chance, one team that wanted me, and I thought Miami would have been a great fit.” While he started 40 of 71 games during two seasons with the Hurricanes, Lecomte decided to leave after standout point guard Angel Rodriguez left Kansas State for two final seasons at Miami along with some other transfers. McCasland, who had been aware of him as a high school and amateur player on Belgian national teams, visited Lecomte after he left Miami. “I had a great feeling, and I just

Players’ Tribune eyes ‘European expansion’ NEW YORK, March 22, (RTRS): The Players’ Tribune, a website designed to allow athletes to express themselves, is thinking ‘international’ and hoping to become an outlet for English Premier League players and other footballers in Europe. The digital dream child of former New York Yankees great Derek Jeter, the growing website has had more than 1,200 athletes contribute content and is hungry to add more voices. “In general, football is only going to get bigger and bigger here. The culture is changing a lot,” Joe Puglisi, director of branded content for the Players’ Tribune, said on Tuesday at Leaders Sports Business Summit. “I see that as a big growth area, especially for us. We’re very interested. Big plans for international expansion, specifically in Europe right now.” Puglisi singled out Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid as potential early targets to work with. “I think it’s important for us

to establish relationships with the clubs, because they have the most say over the players’ time and what they’re doing with media properties,” Puglisi told Reuters. “Those players would be able to tell a story the way that they want to and to reach a new audience here, and a lot of those clubs are very interested in growing their US audience.” Among contributors in the US are NASCAR driver Danica Patrick, Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton and the golden State Warriors’ Kevin Durant, while in 2015 basketball star Kobe Bryant posted a poem announcing his departure from the game. The site’s monthly average of “content views” has hit 100 million and users are spending an average of about five minutes on each page, Forbes reported. The first-person stories are often drawn from long interviews done by Players’ Tribune staff in a collaborative process with the player, the Sports Business Journal reported.

In this March 9, 2017 file photo, Baylor’s Manu Lecomte (left), passes around Kansas State’s Xavier Sneed during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in the quarter-final round of the Big 12 tournament in Kansas City, Mo. (AP)

loved it,” Lecomte said. “I just loved the opportunity.” Except for having to sit out last season because of NCAA transfer rules. He was able to practice countless hours with the team and on his own, but couldn’t play until this season — when Baylor needed a point guard.

“I just worked so hard on my game. I was in the gym every day, every night,” he said. “I would have never thought one day I would be like I’m not going to play for a year. That would have been impossible for me. But now I did it and I overcame it, it was all worth it.”

Jimmy Butler had 37 points for the Bulls, and Rajon Rondo finished with 24. It was Chicago’s first loss to Toronto since Dec 31, 2013. Following a Butler 3-pointer with 3:58 remaining in the third quarter, giving Chicago a 16-point lead, Lopez swatted the ball out of the hand of Ibaka. The two squared up in the middle of a crowd and Lopez swung and missed Ibaka, who returned in kind, barely connecting with the head of the center. Lopez and Ibaka were ejected following a long review period. Chicago forward Nikola Mirotic and Raptors assistant coach Jamaal Magloire received offsetting technical fouls after getting into a shoving match following the melee. Heat 112, Suns 97 In Miami, Hassan Whiteside had 23 points and 14 rebounds before leaving late with a cut on his right hand, and the Heat cruised to the win. Tyler Johnson scored 17 for Miami (35-36), which had seven players in double figures. Goran Dragic scored 16, Josh Richardson had 14 and Willie Reed added 12. Marquese Chriss scored 24 for Phoenix (22-49), which lost its fifth straight and used only an eight-player rotation until the final minutes. Leandro Barbosa scored 13, Alex Len had 12 points and 11 rebounds, and T.J. Warren scored 12 for the Suns. Warriors 112, Mavericks 97 In Dallas, Klay Thompson had 23 points with five 3-pointers and Golden State earned its 28th road win this season, beating Dallas in a matchup of the Curry brothers. Stephen Curry, two-time MVP and the older of the brothers, had 17 points and nine assists for the defending NBA champion Warriors. The Warriors, who have a leaguehigh 57 wins overall this season, are

San Antonio Spurs’ Tony Parker (left), of France gets tangled up with Minnesota Timberwolves’ Ricky Rubio of Spain during the first half of an NBA basketball game on March 21, in Minneapolis. (AP)

the first team ever with 28 road wins in three consecutive seasons. They have a record 90 wins away from home during that span. Seth Curry, who was undrafted in 2013 and just this year became a starter with the Mavericks, had 10 points on 4-of-12 shooting. He is now 0-6 in NBA games against his brother, half of those losses coming as Golden State swept the season series. Spurs 100, Timberwolves 93 In Minneapolis, Kawhi Leonard scored 20 of his 22 points in the sec-

BASKETBALL ond half, helping San Antonio to the road win. LaMarcus Aldridge scored 26 points for the Spurs, who remained three games behind Golden State for the top seed in the Western Conference. San Antonio scored 35 points off of 23 turnovers by Minnesota and held off a fourth-quarter rally from the Wolves. Karl-Anthony Towns had 25 points and 14 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who have lost four straight games to fade from playoff contention in the West. Andrew Wiggins scored 22 points and Shabazz Muhammad scored 16 of his 18 points in the second quarter for Minnesota. Nets 98, Pistons 96 In New York, Brook Lopez made a jumper as time expired to give Brooklyn the win. The Pistons, fighting for a playoff spot, wiped out a double-digit deficit in the fourth quarter to tie it at 96 on Tobias Harris’ follow shot with 2.4

seconds left. Lopez then took the inbounds pass moving left, dribbled toward the baseline and shot the jumper as it appeared he might lose control of the ball, making the shot to cap a 29-point night. Harris had 24 points for the Pistons, who dropped a game back of Miami for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Bucks 93, Trail Blazers 90 In Portland, Oregon, Khris Middleton scored 26 points, and Milwaukee held off Portland for the victory. Giannis Antetokounmpo added 22 points for the Bucks (35-35), who have won nine of 11 as they jostle for playoff positon in the Eastern Conference. They are a half-game ahead of Miami for the seventh spot. Portland (32-38) had won three in a row and eight of 10. It dropped to a full game back of idle Denver for the final postseason berth in the West. Pelicans 95, Grizzlies 82 In New Orleans, DeMarcus Cousins enjoyed his most prolific performance yet with New Orleans, finishing with 41 points and 17 rebounds. Cousins hit five 3-pointers, tying a career high. He made five shots inside while being fouled for threepoint plays and had the jubilant home crowd chanting his nickname, “Boogie”. Cousins, who was acquired in a February trade with Sacramento, also blocked three shots and assisted on Anthony Davis’ crowd-pleasing alley-oop dunk. Davis added 19 points and 13 rebounds for the Pelicans, who won for the fifth time in six games while snapping Memphis’ four-game winning streak. Mike Conley 16 scored points for Memphis, while JaMychal Green and Troy Daniels each scored 12. Clippers 133, Lakers 109 In Los Angeles, Clippers star Chris Paul scored 27 points before watching the end of a blowout with his young son on the bench. The Clippers have won 17 of the last 19 meetings against the Lakers. They cruised in this one, and the younger Chris Paul got to sit on his dad’s lap on the bench during the fourth quarter. Eight Clippers scored in double figures, including J.J. Redick with 24 points and Austin Rivers with 17. The Clippers hit 15 of 33 3-pointers, and their starters sat out the entire fourth quarter for the second consecutive game. Brandon Ingram led the Lakers with 21 points.

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ARAB TIMES, THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 2017 thursday— (all times are kuwait local) 07:10 reims vs lens/soccer ................ bein sports 6 10:30 metz vs bastia/soccer ...............bein sports 6 12:00 hawks vs wizards/basketball ... bein sports 8 13:00 psg vs lyon/soccer .................... bein sports 1 14:35 china vs south korea/soccer ...... bein sports 4 15:00 iraq vs australia/soccer............. bein sports 3 18:30 uae vs japan/soccer ................ bein sports 1 19:00 qatar vs iran/soccer ................ bein sports 2

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US edge Japan, reach first WBC final Gregerson stars LOS ANGELES, March 22, (AP): Luke Gregerson’s final strike breezed past Nobuhiro Matsuda, and the raindrenched American players celebrated on the field while a soaked crowd roared through the evening mist. A daylong downpour couldn’t dampen this resilient United States club or its fans, who will finally get to root for the home team in a World Baseball Classic championship game. Brandon Crawford scored the tiebreaking run when Matsuda bobbled Adam Jones’ grounder to third in the eighth inning, and the United States reached the WBC final for the first time by beating Japan 2-1 on Tuesday night at rainy Dodger Stadium. Andrew McCutchen drove in an early run for the US, which will play Puerto Rico for the title Wednesday night. Puerto Rico edged the Netherlands 4-3 in 11 innings Monday. “It means a heck of a lot,” said McCutchen, the Pittsburgh Pirates slugger. “We’ve got a great group of guys on this team who have dedicated this time to be able to try and win some ballgames. Sacrifices had to be made, and there are no egos when that door opens. That’s what’s good about this team. Everybody is a superstar on

BASEBALL this team. There are no egos.” The World Baseball Classic final has been played in the United States in each of its four editions, but the home team had never been able to play America’s pastime on what has become its biggest international stage. The US only reached the semifinals once before, in 2009. While manager Jim Leyland’s current roster is missing Clayton Kershaw, Mike Trout and many other American superstars, the All-Star-laden group that decided to participate has won

Japan’s Ryosuke Kikuchi hits a home run during the sixth inning of a semifinal in the World Baseball Classic against the United States, in Los Angeles on March 21. (AP)

The Ministries Basketball Championship winners National Guard celebrate after the awarding ceremony.

National Guard declared league champs The basketball team of the National Guard were declared league champions of the Ministries’ Basketball Championship, after they defeated the team of Ministry of Defense in the final match with a score of 81-79. This comes as revenge of the National Guard Team for their similar defeat in the finals of last season’s championship. The match witnessed exciting and tough competition from both sides until the last few seconds of the match. In second place is the Ministry of Defense and in third place is Ministry of Water and Electricity. Bassam Al-Saleh from Kuwait Petroleum Corporation was declared as

the best player of the tournament, and the top scorer award went to the National Guard’s Abdulhameed AlHumaidhi. The award for the best coach of the tournament went to National Guard’s coach Talal Bilal. The best threepointer award went to Ministry of Defense’s player Waleed Al-Salmi. This season’s basketball championship witnessed the participation of six ministries and government institutions — National Guard, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Water and Electricity, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Ministry of Interior, and Kuwait Fire Service Directorate.

two straight elimination games to earn a chance for the US’ first crown. To reach the final, the Americans had to persevere through an uncharacteristic Los Angeles rain that drenched the playing field several hours before game time. They also had to beat a gifted Japanese team at its own game: pitching, defense and small ball. Ryosuke Kikuchi hit a tying homer off reliever Nate Jones in the sixth

inning for Japan, but the two-time WBC champions were twice let down by their normally sturdy defense. McCutchen opened the scoring with an RBI single in the fourth moments after Kikuchi’s two-base error at second. In the eighth, Crawford likely would have been out at the plate on Jones’ innocent grounder, but Matsuda didn’t field it cleanly and had to throw to first.

UEFA considers squad limits, transfer market changes LISBON, March 22, (RTRS): UEFA will consider introducing squad limits and changes to the transfer system to prevent European teams hoarding players and stem the growing gap between rich and poor clubs, its president Aleksander Ceferin said on Wednesday. The Slovenian lawyer, elected as the head of European soccer’s governing body last September, told a conference in Lisbon that

UEFA needed to address a “decrease in competitive balance” within European club football. The last few years have seen the increasing dominance of a few elite clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Europe’s smaller leagues complain that big teams cream off their players at a young age, only to immediately send them on loan elsewhere, while the likes of

Ajax Amsterdam and Benfica, once major powers, have effectively become feeder clubs. “We do have to examine new mechanisms like luxury taxes and in particular sporting criteria like squad limitations and fair transfer rules, to avoid player hoarding and excessive concentration of talent within a few teams,” said Ceferin. “We do need to assess whether the transfer market

as it operates today is the best we can do? We cannot be afraid to touch it.” Ceferin did not give any further details on what he meant by luxury taxes, but added that UEFA could work with global soccer body FIFA to change the transfer market or do so via its own licensing regulations. Referring to the difference between the biggest clubs and the rest, he said: “We cannot allow the greatness of some to overshadow and drown out the least of us. “If we allow gaps to become too great we will be neglecting those who have little opportunity. “We face a threat that the bottom becomes unstable because the rest of the world

SOCCER is focused on the top.” He did not offer any concrete proposals as to how this could be done, saying instead that UEFA needed to “assess and understand the current situation and some potential trends. “UEFA has a duty to protect the whole of football and not just the elite,” he added. A month before Ceferin’s election, UEFA announced changes to its flagship Champions League competition, giving more places to teams from Europe’s biggest four leagues — Spain, England, Germany and Italy - and cutting those allocated to the rest.

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