18 April

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

40 PAGES

SUNDAY, APRIL 18, 2010

Poland holds huge memorial for crash victims PAGE 8

JAMADA ALAWAL 4, 1431 AH

Bombers kill 41 at Pakistan refugee camp

NO: 14702

Manchester United cut Chelsea lead to one point

Uganda crowns ‘youngest royal’

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150 FILS

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Day turns to night Kuwait hit by ‘apocalyptic’ sandstorm • ‘Sarrayat’ disrupt flights

By Shakir Reshamwala

ROISSY-EN-FRANCE, France: A Kuwait Airways plane sits with its engines covered on the tarmac of Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport near Paris yesterday. — AFP

Volcano spews more ash, air chaos widens Amir orders support for stranded Kuwaitis LONDON: A lingering volcanic ash plume forced extended no-fly restrictions over much of Europe yesterday, as scientists warned that activity at a volcano in Iceland had increased and showed no sign of abating - a portent of more travel chaos to come. Scientists say that because the volcano is situated below a glacial ice cap, the magma is being cooled quickly, causing explosions and plumes of grit that can be catastrophic to plane engines if prevailing winds are right.

“The activity has been quite vigorous overnight, causing the eruption column to grow,” Icelandic geologist Magnus Tumi Gudmundsson told AP yesterday. “It’s the magma mixing with the water that creates the exploEYJAFJALLAJOKULL GLACIER, Iceland: This aer- sivity. Unfortunately, there ial image shows the crater spewing ash and plumes doesn’t seem to be an end in of grit at the summit of the volcano in southern sight.”

Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull glacier yesterday. — AP Continued on Page 14

KUWAIT: The day turned into night yesterday morning as a massive sandstorm roared into Kuwait accompanied by raging winds followed by heavy rains.

Streetlights flickered on at 8:00 am as the skies turned dark, catching early morning commuters unawares and leaving observers awestruck.

Flights at Kuwait airport were disrupted with at least two planes forced to turn around.

The “sarrayat” gales reached a speed of 120 kph and visibility dropped to less than 200 m, meteorologist Issa Ramadhan told KUNA. Abdullah, a 23-year-old Kuwaiti, had only two words to describe the scene: “Judgement Day.” Others were also shocked by the apocalyptic storm. Ella Bebit, a Filipina nurse, was driving on her way to work when it started getting dark. “It was scary,” she said. “I thought it was the end of the world.”

The blogosphere was atwitter too, and pictures and videos of the storm were uploaded on YouTube and Facebook almost immediately.

“People were running for shelter as the winds started blowing,” said Errol Mascarenhas, a 37-year-old Indian who was also driving to work. He shot a video of the storm and posted it on his Facebook profile.

Many who woke up as the sandstorm rolled in were confused by the darkness and thought they had slept through the day.

Ramadhan said northern Al-Abdali region recorded the highest level of rain - 36 mm a third of the year’s volume.

Ramadhan cautioned that the weather might remain unstable with scattered rainfall and low visibility.

Continued on Page 14

KUWAIT: A massive sandstorm turns the skies dark over residential buildings in Salmiya yesterday.

— Photo by Joseph Shagra (See Page 5)

Saudis set up nuke energy centre KHOBAR, Saudi Arabia: Oil giant Saudi Arabia yesterday gave its strongest signal yet that it wants to develop atomic power by announcing a new scientific centre for civilian nuclear and renewable energy to meet rising demand for power and desalinated water, state news agency SPA said yesterday. The government said the centre would undertake research and develop projects in nuclear and alternative energies toward the goal of diversifying the kingdom’s power generation away from oil and natural gas.

While the Gulf kingdom has already been experimenting with alternative energy sources like solar power, the latest

DUBAI: Saudi director Abdullah AlEyaf (right) receives the best short film award for “Aayesh” (Living) from Emirati Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashed, chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, at the closing ceremony of the Gulf Film Festival on April 14, 2010. — AFP

their work and of others more than 100 films from Gulf countries and from Iraq were presented in the third edition of the Dubai Film Festival, which took place this past week.

“The films have addressed important and bold topics and, despite some weaknesses, these experiments foreshadow a promising future for Gulf cinema,” said Yemen’s first woman film-maker and member of the jury, Khadija Al-Salami. Iraq - with a longer tradition of cinematography than its neighbours - won nine of the 13 prizes awarded at the festival, including first prize in the feature film category awarded to Shawkat Amin Korki for “Kick Off.” His film portrays the lives of Kurdish families taking refuge in a shanty town in Iraqi Kurdistan. Korki highlights the painful plight of refugees in the war-ravaged country, with his story centred on a boy who organises a football game in an effort to make life less miserable.

Runner-up in the feature category was “City Of Life”

by Emirati director Ali Mustafa. It tells how the paths of an Emirati man, a European woman, and an Indian taxi driver cross in Dubai - emphasising the different strands of society and how they affect each other in Continued on Page 14

bin Abdullah Yamani. SPA gave no more details or timeframe for the project but said the complex would be based in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

“The kingdom is witnessing sustained growth in demand for power and desalinated water due to high population growth and subsidised prices of water and power,” SPA said. “Thus the use of alternative, sustainable, reliable sources to produce electricity and desalinate water reduces reliance on hydrocarbons ...extends the lifespan of hydrocarbon resources and preserves it as a source of income for a longer time,” it added.

Continued on Page 14

Tehran hits out at nuke ‘bullies’

Gulf youth challenge norms with cameras DUBAI: In the Gulf, known for its conservative Muslim beliefs, young filmmakers are stirring up debate on such issues as forced marriage and wearing the veil with an art form largely confined to the shadows until now. Indeed, some of those artists come from Saudi Arabia, a country that bans cinemas. And the fruit of

move confirmed its interest in nuclear energy. The new entity is to draft a national policy on nuclear energy development and supervise all commercial use of nuclear power and the handling of radioactive waste, the announcement said.

Demand for power grew last year by more than 8 percent and is expected to grow to more than 60,000 megawatt (MW) by 2020. The Gulf state is investing $80 billion to boost installed power generation capacity to around 67,000 MW by 2020, up from 46,000 MW now. King Abdullah ordered the creation of a science complex named after him which would be headed by former trade minister Hashem

Khamenei: US an ‘atomic criminal’

BANGALORE: The cap of an injured private security guard lies on the ground as Indian forensic officers collect material at a blast site on the outside boundary of Chinnaswamy Stadium yesterday. — AFP

Ten wounded in India cricket stadium blasts Blasts follow US terror alert BANGALORE: At least 10 people were wounded when two bombs exploded yesterday outside a packed cricket stadium in the southern Indian city of Bangalore, stirring fears about more militant attacks, police said.

Police said a third bomb was found and defused outside the stadium, and preliminary investigations showed that a timer device may have been used. “It was a huge noise and people started to run. We were really scared,” Arun Kumar, a witness, told television channels. “I heard a loud noise when I was in the queue to enter the stadium. I saw police cordon off the area. There

was panic initially and people ran helter-skelter,” said engineering student Hem Chander.

The explosions came a day after the US State Department issued a travel alert in which it said: “The US government continues to receive information that terrorist groups may be planning attacks in India”. India said yesterday it was further tightening security before the October Commonwealth Games after the United States issued its warning about possible militant attacks on hotels and markets in India.

Several cricket-playing countries had Continued on Page 14

TEHRAN: Iran appealed yesterday for “atomic criminal” United States to be suspended from the UN nuclear watchdog at a disarmament conference it is hosting in response to a summit in Washington to which it was not invited and intended to hit back at nuclear-armed “bullies”. At the opening of the two-day meeting, Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ruled out any use of atomic weaponry as “haram”, meaning religiously banned under Islam. Iran also called for changes to the Non-Proliferation Treaty, while Iraq, Lebanon and Syria voiced support for Tehran’s “peaceful” nuclear program and demanded Israel join the NPT “without conditions”.

Khamenei branded the United States an “atomic criminal” in a message read out by an aide at the nuclear disarmament conference.

Hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad went a step further and called for Washington’s suspension from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) along with all other nations which possess nuclear arms. “Only the US government has committed an atomic crime,” said the message of the all-powerful Khamenei who formulates Tehran’s foreign policy, including its nuclear strategy. “The world’s only atomic criminal lies and presents itself as being against nuclear weapons proliferation, while it has not taken any serious measures in this regard,” he said.

Ahmadinejad, under whose presidency Iran has defiantly pushed ahead with its controversial nuclear program despite three sets of UN sanctions, attacked the present structure of Continued on Page 14

TEHRAN: Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad delivers a speech at the opening session of a twoday nuclear disarmament conference yesterday. — AFP

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NATIONAL

Sunday, April 18, 2010

‘Culturally enriching program’

US Embassy hosts blues night on KU campus

By Hussain Al-Qatari KUWAIT: In coordination with Kuwait University, the Embassy of the United States in Kuwait hosted a performance on Wednesday evening by the Little Joe McLerran Quartet, an American blues band that is currently on a tour of the GCC region. The show started at 7:30 and lasted until a little after 9 pm.

The audience, which consisted of students, faculty members and some families, thoroughly enjoyed the event.

“I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy the concert because I don’t listen to blues music much, but I am glad that I attended. This was culturally enriching for me,” said Mira, an Indian expat in her 30s, who attended the event with her family.

Saud, 27, said he has always been interested in blues music and was glad to

Razi Hospital official replies to complaints

KUWAIT: Maj Gen Abdul Hamid Al-Awadi and other officials at the MoI’s Service Center in Shamiya yesterday.

MoI opens Service Center KUWAIT: Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Nationality and Passports affairs Maj Gen Abdul Hamid Al-Awadi inaugurated here yesterday MoI’s Service Center in Shamiya.

The new center will oper-

ate on Friday and Saturday of every week along with normal daily operations.

Al-Awadi said during the opening that the inauguration of the new center comes within the framework of guidance of senior leadership of the Ministry to exert all efforts and

provide all facilities to serve nationals and expatriates alike.

He conveyed the best wishes of the Ministry’s Undersecretary Lieutenant General Ahmad Al-Rejaib.

Al-Awadhi then toured the various departments of the new center. —- KUNA

KUWAIT: The Vice Chairman of Al-Razi Hospital, Dr Ammar Husain Al-Baroun, has replied to a column posted by Iqbal AlAhmad in Al-Qabas daily. In the original column, Al-Ahmad addressed the fact that the hospital carries out surgeries for minors based on permission taken from a minor’s father or grandfather exclusively, while rejecting the permission of the minor’s mother.

In his response, Al-Baroun admitted that this is indeed the practice of the hospital and unlike any other public hospital in the country. At the same time however, he explained that the rule comes as a direct order from the government. He added that they are forced to follow the practice in order to avoid falling into any legal trouble and that, when necessary, they do make exceptions.

have the opportunity to attend an event like this here in Kuwait.

“It’s really impressive to me that such a band that has not made it to the mainstream is here in Kuwait performing really good music,” he said.

“I lived in Oklahoma during my years at college, and I’ve attended great blues performances there. This feels like it’s one of them. Lively, lighthearted, and the artists are also hilarious. It’s seriously great!”

Blues music gained its pop-

During the short intervals between songs, the band members talked about the instruments used to produce blues music, as well as giving a brief history of this music genre and explained the history behind each song they played.

After the concert, the band gave away memorabilia, harmonicas and free CDs, as well as staying behind to sign autographs for the appreciative audience members.

ularity in the Southern states of the US in the 1920s, gradually fading from popularity during the mid-1960s during what’s known as the British Invasion, where music from the United Kingdom became very popular in the United States, overshadowing local artists and their music. It was revived in the late 1960s and continues to be an essential genre in original American music.

The Little Joe McLerran Quartet comes from Tulsa, Oklahoma. The band’s tour in

the Gulf includes stops in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman. They have already performed in Bahrain and Saudi, and will start performing in Oman tomorrow, ending their tour on the 21st of this month.

The tour is part of a program entitled ‘The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad.’

It was created by the United States Department of the State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and is adminis-

tered by the New York-based Jazz at Lincoln Center. The mission of The Rhythm Road is to share the unique American contribution the world of music and to promote cross-cultural understanding and exchange among nations worldwide.

According to The Rhythm Road website, the Jazz at Lincoln Center and the US Department of State have produced ten tours each year since 2005 that represent American music to overseas audiences.

NA panel, minister to discuss Rafale deal

By A Saleh KUWAIT: The parliamentary interior and defense committee is to meet today to discuss the French Rafale fighter jets deal.

First Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak AlSabah is expected to attend the meeting and has called upon all MPs, not only the committee members, to be present.

According to a Ministry of Defense (MoD) source, Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak will assure the committee that Kuwait has not signed any agreement to buy the jets to date, restricting itself to commissioning technical studies of them.

The MoD insider said that the minister will tell the MPs that the defense ministry is keen to take the Audit Bureau’s views on the matter into consideration when signing any deal.

Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak will also correct MPs on the misinformation they have received about the planes, said the ministry insider, by explaining to them that all the jets’ technical specifications are outstanding, with no Kuwaiti officer writing any negative reports on any aspect of them.

The MoD source also revealed that the defense minister is to explain to the MPs that the Rafale deal will include returning

Kuwait’s old Mirage fighter jets to France in a ‘part-exchange’-type deal in return for the new planes, while paying the difference between the two, thereby significantly reducing the cost of the deal. As well as saving money, this measure will also dispose of the Kuwaiti Air Force’s currently out-of-service planes.

The defense ministry insider stressed that the government has kept its promises on the issue, saying that recent talks between the premier His Highness Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah and the French president Nicolas Sarkozy did not allude to Rafale jets in any way, shape or form.

AMMAN: Members of the Kuwaiti delegation pictured during their visit to Amman yesterday.

MP hails Kuwaiti-Jordanian ties AMMAN: Kuwaiti National Assembly Superviser Dr. Mohammad Hadi Al-Huwailah praised here yesterday cooperative relations between Kuwait and Jordan to serve the interests of the two brotherly peoples.

In a statement during a luncheon held here yesterday

by Kuwaiti Ambassador to Jordan Sheikh Faisal Al-Hamoud Al-Malik Al-Sabah in honor of the delegation of the visiting 3rd Parliamentary Friendship Group, Al-Huwailah praised the role played by the Kuwaiti diplomatic mission here in bolstering

relations between Kuwait and Jordan under the wise leaderships of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad AlSabah and King Abdullah II. Al-Huwailah said during the luncheon which was attended by former Jordanian parliament speaker Abdul Hadi Majali and members of the Jordanian Senate that the Kuwaiti parliamentary delegation’s visit to Jordan aims to bolster bilateral relations between the two countries in various fields, particularly in the parliamentary side.

He added the delegation would discuss with Jordanian

officials the legislative experience of the two countries and bilateral relations, expressing hope that the visit would achieve positive results, and serve the interests of both peoples.

In another development, the Kuwaiti media delegation continued yesterday its visit to officials in the province Kondong in China. The delegation met permanent member of the ruling party in the Republic of China Zhou Khong. Head of the delegation and member of the Kuwait Journalists Association Dheran Abalkhail

said he was pleased for the hospitality and the welcome extended to the Kuwaiti delegation by officials in the province of Kondong and by the Kuwaiti consulate in the city of Quanzhou. He noted that trade relations between the two countries were in constant evolution.

For his part, Khong hailed in a statement the importance of the historic Kuwaiti-Chinese ties and to the role of the Kuwaiti Consulate in the city of Quanzhou and its efforts to consolidate trade relations with Kuwait. — KUNA

in the news Water reserve KUWAIT: An official source at the Ministry of Electricity and Water said that the strategic water reserve has reached 2,167 million imperial gallons on Friday, reported Al-Rai. He added that the production rate reached 376 million gallons with a surplus between 20 to 25 million gallons above the daily consumption rate. The source said Kuwait’s strategic reserve is satisfactory and increasing despite maintenance work done on reservoirs and water distillers at generation stations.

Truck robbery KUWAIT: Unidentified thieves recently broke into a truck carrying foodstuffs for a local catering firm while it was

parked in a street in Farwaniya, escaping with KD 400 worth of goods. When he returned to the truck and discovered the theft, the Asian driver immediately headed for the area police station to file a complaint, reported Al-Qabas. Crime scene officers took fingerprints and other evidence from the lorry to help them apprehend the culprits and an investigation is underway.

Public training institute KUWAIT: A number of lawmakers presented a draft law proposing the establishment of a public authority for technical and professional training, reported Al-Watan. The institute would be associated with the Ministry of Education.

NATIONAL

Sunday, April 18, 2010

KUWAIT: A number of birds pass by Kuwait during its annual migration season, heading to its breeding locations in the north.

Direction of wind plays important role

Weather delays migration of birds towards north KUWAIT: The migration of birds from Kuwait towards the north during spring of 2010 was delayed due to weather and other environmental factors, said Chairman of the Ornithological Society of Kuwait Abdulrahman Al-Sarhan yesterday. He said that those birds pass by Kuwait during its annual migration season, heading to its breeding locations in the north. He added that the large number and variety of birds migrate during the spring season depending on many factors, such as the availability of food, including grass and insects, and to weather conditions like frequent rain and mild weather.

The direction of the wind plays a very important role in the migration of birds, he said, adding that mild southern winds were perfect for propelling birds migrating towards the north, while the strong northern winds could prevent them from flying towards their new places, Al-Sarhan said.

Small birds normally travel during the night, because of the cool weather and decrease in wind speed, flying at the altitude of 100 to 500 meters, he noted.

He said that hovercraft birds - bigger birds - travel during the day, making use of the hot rising winds, because the hot winds were lighter than cold ones.

The sudden change in the weather during the night, like heavy rain and strong storms, force birds to land on the ground and wait until the weather improves, which results in an increase in the number and variety of birds in Kuwait year after year. —KUNA

Sheikha Fareeha wraps up one-week visit to Morocco RABAT: Chairperson of Kuwait’s Higher Committee for the Ideal Mother Award Sheikha Fareeha Al-Ahmad AlSabah wrapped up a one-week visit to Morocco yesterday.

During her visit, Sheikha Fareeha discussed with Morocco’s Minister of Social Development, Family and Solidarity Nouzha Skalli means to boost volunteer work in the two countries in the field of women, children and those with special needs.

The two sides also discussed the need to counter dangerous phenomena that threatened the two societies, and hoped that cooperation between Kuwait and Morocco in these areas would be cemented through the signing of bilateral agreements in the near future.

Among the issues discussed were the challenges faced by Arab families and behavioral matters that were threatening the children.

Sheikha Fareeha also visited an orphanage which harbors around 61 childern who had been deprived of basic needs.

Sheikha Fareeha presented the children with gifts, and her generosity was met by joyful smiles and thanks by the children and those running the orphanage.

She also visited the Marajwil park which was founded in 1917, a park known for having 400 species of trees from all over the world. She was accompanied by a large delegation. —KUNA

kuwait digest

Ashour and the ‘oppressed minority’

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n a column with Al-Watan, Dr Fahad AlAzeb wrote a response to an article written by MP Saleh Al-Ashour. In his article, Al-Ashour wrote on how Shiites in Kuwait are not treated equally when compared to Sunnis. He added that when it comes to promotions and achieving high level positions, Shiites are less likely to get promotions.

‘I was shocked by the way Al-Ashour discussed the issue regarding the Shiite minority in Kuwait,’ wrote Al-Azeb. ‘He depicted them as being oppressed and of not having the same chance as Sunnis to reach higher posts. I believe that the MP’s claims are not true for several reasons.’

‘First, there are several Shiite citizens appointed to high positions in the country,’ he began. ‘For example, the former military

Chief of Staff and Ambassador to Iraq, Ali Mohammad Al-Momen, the former head of the General Traffic Department and current Farwaniya Governor, Abdulhamid Abdurrahim, Kuwait’s former Ambassador to the United Nations and the United States, and current consultant at the Amiri Diwan Mohammad Abu Al-Hassan, the former Oil Minister Ali Al-Baghli, the current Minister for Public Works and Municipality Affairs Dr Fadhel Safar, the current Finance Minister Mustafa Al-Shamali and many others.’

‘Second, among undersecretaries and undersecretary assistants who have been appointed in the history of the state, hundreds of them have been Shiites,’ he pointed out.

‘Third, there are many Shiite citizens

Two jailed, three given probation in rape case KUWAIT: The Criminal Court has issued its verdicts against five young men aged between 18 and 20 who were charged with abducting and raping an Asian woman.

Three of the accused men were released on probation while the other two were sentenced to 15 years each in jail followed by immediate deportation.

The woman told the court that she had been abducted while walking along a local street by four of the five men, who forced her into their car and took her to a remote area where they took turns to rape her. After this, they took her to an apartment where they were joined by the fifth man, where the woman was again gang raped.

Thereafter, two of the men forced the woman back into the car, telling her they would drop

her off at whatever location she chose. When they were forced to pull over by police on the motorway, however, the woman asked the officers for help and told them what had taken place.

The two men in the car were immediately arrested and thanks to the woman’s descriptions the other three were soon apprehended, reported Al-Qabas.

The man who joined his friends at the apartment during the second gang rape was found not guilty by the court after his defense attorney Zaid Al-Khabaz argued that he did not take part in the sexual assault but had the situation thrust upon him by his friends who took the woman to the apartment where he lived, telling him to return after they finished raping her.

who have made their way to the top positions of Kuwait University and the Public Authority for Applied Education and Training through their academic qualifications,’ he continued.

‘Fourth, Shiite citizens play a great role in the country’s press and media industry,’ he added ‘Fifth, Al-Ashour’s statements are offensive to Kuwait,’ he wrote, pointing out that it was inappropriate for the MP to depict Kuwait as an oppressive regime that discriminates against its people.

‘Finally,’ he concluded, ‘I am confident that Shiite citizens do not allow themselves to be treated as though they are an oppressed minority. The MP’s claim is an attempt to achieve political gain by playing the sectarian card.’

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NATIONAL

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

Eleven injured in crashes

Crackdown against residency violators, 47 in police custody

By Hanan Al-Saadoun KUWAIT: A recent crackdown against residency violators in Kabad resulted in the arrest of 47 Asian men who were discovered to be committing various residency-related violations. Jahra security services decided to launch the nighttime operation after it was noted

Sweet revenge A daring Egyptian expatriate locked a group of police officers in a cell at the local station before escaping. The man had been taken into custody after it was discovered by officers manning a checkpoint that his residency visa had expired. When he was taken to the police station to be booked, he took revenge for the constant taunts of the colonel who arrested him by seizing the officer’s gun and forcing the policeman and his colleagues into a cell, which he then locked. The audacious Egyptian then abandoned the gun at the station before fleeing.

Police are now hunting for the man.

Road accidents A 14-year-old Palestinian boy was seriously injured when he was hit by a car while crossing the street opposite the Scientific Center in Salmiya.

The boy was rushed to Mubarak Hospital with multiple fractures and other injuries. In another accident, a 56-year-old Egyptian man suffered broken bones in his left foot when he was hit by a speeding car near the Farah Restaurant in Hawally.

He was taken to Mubarak Hospital. In a separate incident, a pregnant 32-year-old Egyptian woman was rushed to the maternity hospital after suffering internal bleeding in a car accident on Abdullah

Lawyer lauds deportation of ElBaradei supporters

KUWAIT: In its annual report for 2009, the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Governorate’s Municipality Office revealed that last year its staff arrested 456 unlicensed vendors, confiscated 4,435 kilograms of foodstuff found to be unfit for human consumption and removed 3,721 illegally erected billboards, as well as impounding 106 abandoned vehicles.

Kuwait, Azerbaijan sign cooperation agreement MOSCOW: The State of Kuwait and Azerbaijan yesterday signed a cooperation treaty on the field of youth and sport.

The treaty was co-signed by board chairman and Director General of Kuwait’s Public Authority for Youth and Sport, former Major General Faisal Musaad Al-Jazaf, and Azeri Minister of Youth and Sport Ezzat Rahimof.

“The State of Kuwait is keen on developing its ties with Azerbaijan in various fields,” said the Kuwaiti Ambassador to Azerbaijan

Ghassan Al-Zawwawi in a statement.

Ambassador Al-Zawwawi pointed out that the new agreement comes as a preliminary step heralding a quantum leap in the bilateral relations between Kuwait and the Republic of Azerbaijan.

He added that the treaty opens up new horizons for developing bilateral cooperation in the field of sports activities and consolidating and diversifying ties among young peoples in the State of Kuwait and Azerbaijan. — KUNA

77 reckless drivers held KUWAIT: Police launched a series of operations early on Friday morning cracking down on reckless drivers and those harassing other motorists on Gulf Road and in Farwaniya, arresting a total of 77 people on various charges.

Six fugitives wanted in connection with civil and criminal cases, ten residency violators, 25 people not carrying any form of ID and eight individuals found to be publicly intoxicated were apprehended in one of the police operations. In another, meanwhile, six residency violators, 15 people without any form of ID, three fugitives and four drunks were taken into custody, reported AlQabas.

KUWAIT: Prominent Kuwaiti lawyer Zaid Al-Enezi has supported the recent controversial deportation of Egyptian supporters of possible presidential candidate Mohammed ElBaradei. Al-Enezi said that the deportation had been the right way to protect bilateral relations between Kuwait and Egypt, pointing out that the Egyptian regime had been outstandingly supportive to Kuwait during the 1990-91 invasion and occupation of Kuwait.

Al-Enezi called on expatriates in Kuwait to follow the maxim, “Since you are a stranger here...behave,” saying that Kuwait cannot tolerate any demonstrations or protests by non-Kuwaitis since these will open the door to similar protests by other expatriate communities.

He asserted that allowing Iranians to demonstrate against the government there in front of the Iranian Embassy in Kuwait had been a mistake, which should not be allowed to recur.

On the subject of Kuwaiti citizens with dual nationality, the lawyer said, “The discussion of this issue in the media upsets people and causes disruption in society, and it is much better to deal with it behind closed doors.”

Meanwhile, Kuwait Human Rights Society (KHRS) chairman Ali AlBaghli condemned the existence of large numbers of dual citizenship holders, saying that 22,000 Kuwaitis also hold Saudi citizenship and live in Saudi Arabia, receiving the benefits of holding both nationalities.

Al-Baghli asserted that the government’s promise to revoke the citizenship of those with dual nationality is a political ploy, saying that nobody believes that the government is serious about implementing it since such dual nationals have lived in Kuwait for decades, reported Al-Rai. The KHRS head called the deportation of the Egyptian supporters of ElBaradei unjust, saying that it displayed double standards on the part of the government and questioning why similar measures had not been taken against the Iranians who protested in front of their embassy in support of presidential candidate Mir Mousavi during last year’s election in Iran.

Al-Baghli also demanded that the government quickly approve a bill according Kuwait’s Bedoon (stateless) residents their full social rights, as well as naturalizing all those who deserve citizenship. Doing so would bring a satisfactory end to a problem that is damaging to Kuwait’s reputation abroad, he added.

that the numbers of illegal workers in the area had been increasing, posing a potential security threat, reported Al-Watan. Officials said that the well-planned and executed operation was a great success, with the area being surrounded to prevent any illegal workers from escaping. Those arrested have been taken into custody and referred to the relevant authorities.

Al-Qatani Street in Maidan Hawally. Meanwhile, a 29-year-old Indian man suffered serious head injuries when he was hit by a car near a bakery in Jahra. He was rushed to Jahra Hospital. In a separate incident, a 24-year-old Egyptian man was injured in a car accident near the ‘Showbiz’ junction in Salmiya. He was taken to Mubarak Hospital.

In another accident, a 23-year-old Bedoon (stateless) man was rushed to Mubarak Hospital after sustaining severe head injuries in a collision on the road between Bayan and Rumaithiya. Meanwhile, a 21-year-old Kuwaiti man suffered various injuries in a crash on the Fifth Ring Road near the Khaitan turn-off. He was taken to Farwaniya Hospital. The bad weather and poor visibility on Friday morning resulted in a driver losing control of his car on King Faisal Street near Al-Faiha, with the vehicle overturning as a result. The driver escaped with slight pain in one leg and was taken to Amiri Hospital. In a separate incident on Friday morning, a 61-year-old Palestinian man was taken to Amiri Hospital after he was injured in an accident that took place on Airport Road between Yarmouk and Qurtuba. Meanwhile, a 22-year-old Indian man suffered pelvic injuries and a 23-year-old compatriot suffered hand injuries in a crash on Liyah Road.

Both were taken to Jahra Hospital.

Three hurt A 17-year-old Saudi boy was rushed to Farwaniya Hospital after suffering various injuries when he fell from a moving bus following a fight between passengers. In a separate incident, a 35-year-old Indian man suffered injuries to his feet in a fight near the Jleeb AlShuyoukh police station on Friday evening. He was taken to Farwaniya Hospital. In another fight, this time near Al-Jawhara Market in Khaitan, a 27-year-old Indian man suffered head injuries. He was taken to Farwaniya Hospital. Meanwhile, a 35-year-old Bangladeshi man was rushed to Mubarak Hospital on Friday morning after suffering head injuries in a crash on Fahaheel Road.

Weather problems The high winds and thunderstorms that hit Kuwait yesterday morning resulted in numerous calls to the emergency operations room reporting various incidents, although thankfully no serious casualties were sustained. Callers reported that a number of trees had been uprooted by the 50MPH-plus winds, with several falling across and blocking thoroughfares. The stormy weather also led to a number of small fires in electrical substations, flooding in some homes’ basements and other problems.

in my view

Questioning loyalties of Kuwaitis

By Hussain Al-Qatari n a discussion I had with a friend recently, she highlighted what she called a ‘troubling’ loyalty people in Kuwait have for two big neighboring countries; Saudi Arabia and Iran.

I thought she was overreacting when she mentioned that people in Kuwait have turned this debate from a political one into a social, racial, and even sectarian debate.

Af ter giving the matter some thought, I realized that it is often the excuse people use here to argue with

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each other.

The Sunni / Shiite debate is a very sensitive subject that has been on the local scene for quite a while now. It has dragged with it other issues, other than just religious sect. It is now associated with political sympathies, loyalties to other countries and other allegations that sound a lot like conspiracy theories.

To some people, during any debate, a Sunni becomes associated with Saudi Arabia and a Shiite with Iran. But how much loyalty do these people actually have to each of these countries? Were they born there, have they lived there,

did they feed and study and work there?

It is a given truth that our society is multi-faceted. The members of Kuwaiti society did not migrate here ten years ago. Their only home now is Kuwait.

Whether their ancestors were born here or moved here from Saudi Arabia or Persia is not the point.

I believe that the current xenophobia, racism and hatred some people have for each other is alarming. There is an urgent need to introduce people to the concept of coexistence, of accepting differences and learning how to live in harmony.

KUWAIT: Abdullah Al-Sharhan; Chairman of Board of Trustees with Argentina Minister Khoceh Lino Barano.

Australian College hosts Argentina minister KUWAIT: The Australian College of Kuwait hosted the Minister of Education & Technology of Argentina Khoceh Lino Barano during his visit to Kuwait recently.

His visit covered most of the College Divisions like the Marine Simulation Center which is the first in the State of Kuwait that provides professional education and training to students as well as to develop the navigation efficiencies of staff and trainees in all military and civil sectors locally and regionally.

This center is considered as a scientific edifice and a developed turning point and a significant achievement recorded by the Austracollege. The Minister also visited the Engineering Depar tment Workshop which provides professional training programs through technological spececializations so as to graduate students capable for distinction in labor market and to make an outstanding move in their careers at both levels; domestic and international.

The Engineering Department is applying theoretical and practical training programs in its syllabus so

as to implant knowledge, skill in the personality of the student in addition to self confidence, develop efficiency and enable them of innovation and creation within the patronage environment which Australia College is distinguished of. In addition to the foregoing, Khoceh took around to the aviation maintenance training installations in the Australian College which are considered the best equipped installations in the region in which B737

Boeing is available as a real training utility for the students who are studying mechanical aviation engineering diploma in addition to other engineering subjects.

At the end of his visit, Khoceh praised the efforts which the Australian College exerts to improve and develop its educational infrastructure in general and applied education in particular. He stated that it is a great achievement that such a leading and specialized college

like the Australian College to be in Kuwait which works on the development of capabilities and potentialities by using the best scientific and applied means possible.

It is wor th mentioning that the Australian College is distinguished by its most developed educational program which is based on practical application and qualifying the students to join work directly af ter graduation unlike other several regional and global universities.

NATIONAL

Sunday, April 18, 2010

5

Welcome to springtime in Kuwait

By Nisreen Zahreddine

A

friend called me yesterday morning saying that another friend of his had been calling him since dawn, scared of the thunderstorms and heavy rain. My friend didn’t forget to warn me not to leave the house early in the morning. I heard the same story from other friends during the day calling each other and checking as if some natural disaster had occurred. I even heard some others talking about the relation between yesterday’s weather and scare stories about the world ending in 2010.

It’s hard to understand this unjustified fear - or maybe it was justified by what has happened yesterday morning, when people in Kuwait woke up to thunderstorms and heavy rain. Cars were trapped in parking lots which were sinking under the water, no one was able to make it outside their

homes at 7:00 am. Maybe it is not enough to say that visibility was low, it’s better described as totally “Black Vision,’ with people unable to distinguish whether it was early morning or late evening. But that was not all; this rainy, stormy weather was accompanied by dust, combining the typical desert weather with a cold, rainy climate.

This combination, however, is not strange for a country like Kuwait. Everyone who lives here knows that one can witness all four seasons and extremely different types of weathers in the passage of one day. This is despite the fact that it’s currently the end of spring here, meaning that the dusty, hot weather is on its way, heralding another extremely hot summer in one of the hottest countries among the Gulf states.

Meteorologist and astronomer Adel AlSaadoun described this phenomenon as ‘Al Sarayat,’ a period of changeable and extremely dusty weather with low pres-

sure to the east, which transforms a cloudless sky within a few hours into a cloudy and rainy scene, complete with thunderstorms. Some areas, meanwhile, could witness storms without rain.

Al-Saadoun rejected any connection to the phenomena of global warming or climate change, saying, “This phenomenon has been well known in Kuwait for many years.”

He explained that this kind of weather is likely to hit the country between mid-April and mid-May annually, occurring either around dawn or sunset rather than during the day.

Al-Saadoun explained that these weather patterns are caused by the stored solar heat increasing the temperature of the land during the nighttime period, adding that if the weather is humid this means that this can be transformed into rain.

Welcome to springtime in Kuwait, then!

Zimbabwe: Unlocking investment potential

By Mark Grey Marongwe Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe

T

he Republic of Zimbabwe celebrates its 30th Independence anniversary today, the l8th of April.

Almost the size of the American state of California, Zimbabwe is a former British colony, situated north of South Africa.

The Republic is a product of a protracted armed liberation war between the indigenous black majority on one side, and a minority white settler community that unilaterally declared independence from Britain in 1965, on the other. The 13year-old conflict saw more than 65,000 people killed on both sides and also resulted in nearly three million indigenous people taking refuge in neighboring countries or being internally displaced. It ended in 1979 when the British government agreed to assume its colonial responsibility and presided over the Lancaster House Constitutional Conference, which culminated with peace agreement that saw the holding of the first democratic elections, under universal suffrage. The Conference ran for three months, much longer than the two weeks the British had envisaged, after representatives of the liberation movements, led

by Robert Gabriel Mugabe (the current president) and Joshua Nkomo, refused to settle on an arrangement that did not include the transfer of land from 4,000 white settlers of British extraction, who held 80 percent of the country’s arable land, to 7 million members of the indigenous black majority, whose land had been appropriated by colonial conquest. The parties to the Conference only coalesced after the British government, with the support and urging of the American Administration, agreed to fund the gradual transfer of land. Dispute over the implementation of this provision has resulted in the current fall out between

Britain and Zimbabwe, with the former reneging on its obligation, forcing the latter to compulsorily acquire land from the 4,000 white-settler farmers for distribution to the indigenous black majority.

Zimbabwe is endowed with a variety of mineral, agricultural and tourist resources. There are huge platinum, diamond, gold, nickel, chromium, iron and uranium deposits along the country’s High Veld. By some estimates, Zimbabwe has the second-largest deposits of platinum in the world and probably the largest deposits of diamonds in Southern Africa.

Most of these have yet to be exploited, heightening pressures from the former colonial power and its allies for a political dispensation that is pliant to the current dominant neo-liberal ideology.

In the agricultural sector, despite several cycles of drought that have the whole of Southern Africa, and challenges occasioned by disruptions caused by the land transfer process and the illegal sanctions imposed by Britain, the United States and the European Union, production has been on the rise over the last three years. For

in the news 30 Kuwaitis stranded KUWAIT: After the ash cloud from the Icelandic volcano forced Kuwait Airways to reroute their flights from Heathrow to Germany’s Frankfurt International Airport, 30 Kuwaiti citizens have found themselves stranded at the airport as they can’t access Germany due to not having the Schengen Visa required to do so. The Kuwaiti Consulate in Germany did manage to issue Schengen visas to more than 30 senior citizens travelling to the UK for medical treatment, said consul Yousuf Abdulsamad, adding that the process of issuing the same visas for more than 30 citizens still stranded at the airport is ongoing.

The Kuwaiti citizens who already received their Schengen visas managed to reach the UK via busses provided by the consulate, reported Al-Qabas. Abdulsamad further explained that Kuwaiti citizens are not the only people currently experiencing such problems, as thousands of passengers from all over the world are currently stranded at the Frankfurt airport and are not even able to stay in nearby hotels due to lacking Schengen visas.

Mugging in Jleeb KUWAIT: An Asian expatriate was attacked and mugged by unknown assailants on a street in Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh, with the attackers escaping with KD 300 that he was carrying. The man immediately reported the incident at the local police station, and an investigation has been launched to apprehend the culprits, reported Al-Qabas. Investigators are reportedly using the information and descriptions provided by the victim to catch the muggers before they can strike again.

Transparency forum KUWAIT: Kuwait Airways Corporation (KAC) will be sponsoring ‘Kuwait’s Fourth Transparency Forum’, organized by Kuwait Transparency Society on April 20-21. The forum, themed ‘Transparency in Oil Industries’, will be held under the auspices of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad AlJaber Al-Sabah. KAC Media and Public Relations Director, Adel Burisli, said in a press release that the goals of the forum fell in line with the strategic message that KAC had adopted, in supporting its national image and important conferences and events. He stressed that KAC believed in the vital role it had to play in plans to transform Kuwait into a distinguished economic and financial center, noting that transparency in the field of oil and gas was critical to this effect. Transparency standards are among the important principles that KAC advocates, he said.

example, tobacco output has increased by three-fold in the last two years, while food imports have been halved because of increased yields. A lot of investment opportunities exist in this sector in areas such as horticulture, fruit, tea, beef and coffee production.

There has been a rebound of the tourism sector, with the number of visitors to the country doubling in the last 12 months and expected to treble this year because of the FIFA World Cup Soccer Finals to be held in neighboring South Africa next June. The Majestic Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the World, is just an hour’s flight from the South African city of Johannesburg, which will host most of the World Cup games.

Zimbabwe also boasts of a very educated workforce, with the second-highest literacy rate on the African continent (96%), second only to Tunisia. The country has more than a dozen universities and nearly the same number of technical colleges for its 13-million-people population.

Relations between Zimbabwe and the state of Kuwait are very warm and cordial Kuwait established its Embassy in Harare in 1992 while Zimbabwe reciprocated in 1995. The warm, brotherly relations were particularly strengthened in 1990, following Iraq’s brutal invasion of Kuwait.

Zimbabwe as the President of the United Nations Security Council, at the time, played a big role in coordinating the international community’s response to the aggression of a sovereign member of the United Nations. Zimbabwe also continued to honor its loan obligation during the invasion.

On its part, Kuwait has supported the government and people of Zimbabwe through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, financing the rehabilitation of Zimbabwe’s road and rail network, the land resettlement program and the provision of petroleum products, among many other projects.

New bridge to connect Warba to mainland KUWAIT: The Ministry of Interior is looking into the possibility of building a six kilometer bridge to Warba Island from the mainland, reported AlWatan.

The goal of the project, estimated to cost KD 1 million, would be to stop infiltrators and smugglers from making their way into the country from Iraq using the island’s muddy lands and shallow waters. Ministry officials began to consider the idea after realizing the scope of the security breach the island poses.

It was determined that the protective fence was inadequate when authorities realized infiltrators could access the country by foot during the low tide and by boat at high tide. The instability of the area, caused by the tidal movements, makes it impossible for security personnel to be deployed there.

The use of high tech equipment, such as infrared cameras, has proved ineffective. A bridge built on the location would allow authorities to establish checkpoints, monitor the area efficiently and curb infiltration.

KUWAIT: Motorists driving amid heavy rains after the dust storm early yesterday. — Photo by Islam Sharaa

KUWAIT: Sandstorm covering Kuwait areas in the morning. —Photos by Joseph Shagra

NATIONAL

6

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Heads shaved bald as punishment

45 youths in net for harassment KUWAIT: In a recent campaign against harassment, police in Salmiya arrested 45 young men on charges of harassment and failing to carry identification cards, reported Al-Watan.

Additionally, two of the youths were found to be under the influence of drugs and wanted for previous drug related charges. In the campaign, 20 vehicles were apprehended by

Hot pursuit

WASHINGTON: The students from the American University of Kuwait pose for a group photograph during the visit.

AUK students on educational trip to US WASHINGTON: Up to 41 students from the American University of Kuwait (AUK) visited Washington D.C. for an extensive one-week educational program during which they met with many officials and visited landmarks and several institutions.

Division Head of Business and Economics at AUK Dr Mohsen Bagnied said that the purpose of the trip was to expose students to “the American experience,” especially as they were studying in an American university.

Of the selected 41 students, 28 are young women and 13 are young men, most of whom are seniors and marketing majors, he said.

The student group spent a day at the University of Maryland College Park to familiarize themselves with the American system of education. They also participated in two days of intensive seminars at their place of accommodation by two professors from the University of Maryland University College in international business and international marketing.

“We worked on a project on economic integration in the Middle East,” he said.

The students also visited the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the US Chamber of Commerce, the Congress, the Library of Congress, the Senate and the US Supreme Court.

Dr. Bagnied described these visits as “very elaborate and educational,” and said that they were “a very good learning experience for our students.”

The students also visited cultural sites

in D.C. and a reception was held for them at the State Department, where they were given an idea of the functions performed there, especially those related to the Middle East. They visited the Middle East Institute as well.

The highlight of the trip, he said, was meeting Ambassador Sheikh Salem Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah at Kuwait Embassy, who gave the students “a great learning experience.”

The students also went on a one-day tour trip to New York to see the Statue of Liberty and Ground Zero.

Dr. Bagnied expressed his intent to run this program at least once a semester as he found it to be “very enlightening” for students who wanted to pursue their graduate studies in the US, as it gave them an idea of what the American education system was like.

He thanked the business community in Kuwait for sponsoring this trip, and expressed his appreciation to Kuwait Embassy in D.C. for its support.

On his part, Sheikh Salem told KUNA that it was “very positive” to meet the students, adding that this program was one of “great benefit” to them.

“I realized that for many of the students, this was their first visit to the US, and I think this is as an important part of their education as they study in an American university,” he said.

He said that he was struck by the interest shown by the students, who got a clearer picture about the US and its way of life.

“I thank the American University in Kuwait and its professors for taking such an excellent initiative,” he said, and encouraged other universities to follow suit.

Jida Sheikh Ameen, an AUK student majoring in marketing, told KUNA that this was her first time in the US and that she has been very excited to come here.

She said that the whole experience was “amazing, as we had lots of studying to do, interesting seminars and intensive discussions and debates.”

For her, the highlight of the trip was visiting the Library of Congress, as she was fascinated by the architecture there, the vast collection of books, and the interactive maps.

Ahmad Al-Ahmad, who is also a marketing major in his senior year and the one who organized the visit to the embassy, told KUNA he contacted the Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry because he thought that it was very important to meet the ambassador and to learn about his experience in the US. “This has been a very important trip, and most of the students should participate in such trips especially to the US, as we study in an American university,” he said.

The Kuwaiti ambassador held a luncheon at his residence for the students, during which an interactive discussion took place and the students asked the ambassador questions and gain greater understanding about his work experience in the US. —- KUNA

Darband, a popular tourism destination

KUWAIT: A group photo of the participants of the trip.

KUWAIT: Baqer is seen with one of the participants.

NBK holds annual umrah trip KUWAIT: The National Bank of Kuwait recently held an umrah trip for members of its staff and their families, which comes as part of the activities that NBK makes sure to carry out on the

social and all other levels.

More than 70 staff members from the bank’s departments accompanied by their families took part in the annual event, which has been carried out for

ten years in a row, as they also attended several religious lectures held as part of the event, said the head of the public relations department, Yaqoub Baqer.

TEHRAN: Darband is a popular tourism destination that is famous for its beautiful scenery and good climate, and is a place where visitors can also enjoy delicious Iranian dishes served in the manner of ‘fast food’.

The mountainous area is breathtaking, and people can use cable cars to go right up to the top where they can enjoy untouched nature, which is all the more glorious at this time of year.

Visitors can walk around the extensive pastures of greenery and among the trees, while enjoying the sound of water trickling down the slopes. Such activity will no doubt make people hungry, and food is of no shortage here.

In a country were American fast food chains are non-existent due to the nature of relations between Tehran and Washington, restaurants here serve burgers and other sandwiches that are just as good.

Traditional meals such as ‘chelo kebab’ or grilled chicken, found on the menus of the numerous small restaurants dotting the beautiful scenery, cost around $14. Grilling food outdoors is popular out here, and anyone catching a whiff of the smoke will no doubt follow it to the source.

Restaurant owners compete among themselves to serve the best fresh and succulent meat and chicken dishes, prepared in the most traditional ways, especially during the weekends when the number of visitors is high.

The area sees tourists even in the summer, because the elevation offers a cooler option for those seeking to spend their days off outdoors. —KUNA

A Pakistani man was killed, and eight other expats injured, when a wanted fugitive drove through a red light to escape police and crashed into a bus, reported Al-Watan. The pursuit began when police discovered that the fugitive was wanted for a number of previous offenses.

Attempting to escape authorities, the fugitive ran a red light and crashed into a bus, causing it to overturn. The man was arrested after the accident and the injured passengers were taken to a nearby hospital. One officer was wounded in the accident and the fugitive was taken to the proper authorities.

Drunk bedoon Farwaniya police arrested a young bedoon man after he was pulled over in the Ardiya Industrial Zone, reported AlWatan. Police found the man in possession of two bottles of liquor and under the influence of alcohol. He was taken to the proper authorities.

Heart attack An Asian man in his 50’s was found dead in his apartment in Sharq, reported Al-Qabas. Paramedics responded to the scene after an emergency call and pronounced the man dead after discovering that he suffered a heart attack.

Fugitive nabbed A fugitive was arrested in Sabah AlSalem after police launched a series of investigations into his whereabouts, reported Al-Rai. The man was wanted for several previous drug related cases filed against him by the Mubarak Al-Kabeer police department. One of the charges included a 9-year prison sentence. He was referred to the proper authorities.

Officer assaulted An Arab man was arrested after physically assaulting a captain in the National Guard, reported Al-Rai. The arrest was

authorities. Of the 45 arrested, Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) citizens, Kuwaitis, and bedoons were released 24 hours after they were arrested and had their heads shaved bald as a punishment. The two youths found under the influence of drugs were referred to the General Department for Drug Control.

made after a fight occurred between the two over a driving mishap in Farwaniya.

Police responded to the scene after pedestrians placed an emergency call.

The assaulter was taken to the Farwaniya police station where he is being held for questioning.

Bribe case An Asian man was arrested after attempting to bribe police into releasing two detainees with KD 500, reported AlRai. The detainees were arrested after they were found working in an illegal international phone call center. In total, 23 Asians were arrested in the campaign and held for questioning. Shortly after the arrests, an Asian man reported to where the criminals were being held and offered to bribe an official in order to release the ‘Big Boss’ responsible for running the illegal operation. He was arrested and put in jail with the other detainees.

Teens brawl Four youngsters were sent to Mubarak Hospital with stab wounds, broken bones and several other injuries they sustained during a fight between 15 teenagers in Surra, reported Al-Anba.

The brawl was started after an altercation occurred between the youths while they were harassing a female customer outside of a restaurant. Police arrested some of the brawlers and held them for questioning.

Police are in pursuit of the kidnapper.

Unlicensed weapon A case was opened against a citizen for possessing an unlicensed weapon and ammo in Wafra, reported Al-Anba. The man, who is in his 20’s, was taken to Adan Hospital after sustaining injuries when his car overturned while he was driving recklessly in the area. During a search of his car, police found an unlicensed shotgun and 250 bullets. He was placed under high security in the hospital and police are waiting for his medical condition to stabilize before launching an investigation.

Road fatalities A citizen in his 50s was pronounced dead by officials after his relatives brought him to Adan Hospital when he passed out, reported Al-Anba.

Meanwhile, a citizen in his 30s, brought to Farwaniya Hospital after falling unconscious was pronounced dead upon his arrival. While it was determined that he died of natural causes, a criminal investigation was opened when suspicions of criminal intent were raised.

Another criminal investigation was opened regarding the case of a Filipina maid in her 40’s who was pronounced dead after her sponsor brought her to Farwaniya Hospital. The investigation was launched after blood was found on her clothes. Her body was taken to the coroner in order to determine the cause of her death.

Ransom A Nepali man informed authorities at the Sulaibikhat police station that his Nepali wife was kidnapped by a Bangladeshi man who asked for a KD 350 ransom in exchange for her release, reported Al-Anba. In his report, the man explained that three days after his wife’s disappearance a Bangladeshi man answered her phone and threatened to kill her if he did not pay the ransom.

Work mishap An Asian man in his 30’s was killed after he fell from the sixth floor of a building under construction in Jeleeb AlShuyoukh, reported Al-Seyassah.

Criminal investigators responded to the scene and the victim’s coworkers told authorities that he fell after losing balance while working. A case was opened for further investigations.

NA women delegation arrives in Baku MOSCOW: A Kuwaiti parliamentary delegation headed by MP Dr Massouma Al-Mubarak arrived in the Azerbaijani capital Baku yesterday.

The delegation includes her female fellow MPs Dr Salwa AlJassar, Dr Rola Dashti and Dr Aseel Al-Awadi.

The delegation was received

by Kuwaiti-Azeri Friendship Group President Akram Abdullayev, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Azerbaijan

Ghassan Al-Zawawi and members of the Kuwaiti diplomatic mission in Baku.

Al-Mubarak said that the visit comes at the invitation of Vice-President of the Parliament of Azerbaijan, and aimed primarily at strengthening parliamentary relations between Kuwait and Azerbaijan.

She added that the Kuwaiti delegation will brief the Azerbaijani side on progress of the democratic process in

Kuwait, which has been culminated by the victory of four women to the parliamentary seats, as well as parliamentary cooperation and future prospects.

She pointed out that an exchange of parliamentary visits lead to strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries and open the way for advanced and prosperous ties between the two states’ parliaments.

The visit program will include a series of meetings with Vice-President of the National Council of Azerbaijan Bahar Mradova, Chairperson of the Commission on Human Rights in Azerbaijan’s parliament Rabiyat Aslanov, Chairman of the State Committee for Family, Women and Children Hijran Huseynova as well as with members of the Kuwaiti-Azeri Parliamentary Friendship Group. —KUNA

NBK organizes banking familiarization tour KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) recently hosted a group of students from Gulf English School, who toured the bank’s head office to learn about the banking industry and the dayto-day work environment of the various departments.

NBK Public Relations representative Badria Al Reshaid who received the visiting group of students and treated them to a familiarization tour of the various departments, including the main banking hall, said that the guests showed great interest with the broad-spectrum range

of NBK financial and banking products and services and were particularly inquiring interested in the multi-benefit Al Azraq and Al Shabab accounts, exclusively designed for high school, college and university students.

Commenting on the conclusion of the visit, the students expressed their gratitude to NBK for the opportunity they were given to gain better understanding of the banking sector and for the personal insight about NBK and the corporate world in general.

Al Reshaid added “Organizing fre-

quent visits and familiarization tours for students and providing regular support and sponsorship to educational institutions and activities in Kuwait have always been a major component of NBK’s social responsibility and strong commitment towards the greater community in general and the young generation in particular”. This commitment has manifested by providing job opportunities to new graduates and the organization of the annual Summer Internship training and recruitment Program for Al Azraq account young holders.

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Syria accused of supplying Scud missiles to Hezbollah BEIRUT: US concern over allegations that Syria has been supplying Scud missiles to Hezbollah serves to encourage Israel to attack Lebanon, the Lebanese Shiite militant group said yesterday.

Israeli President Shimon Peres has accused Damascus of providing Hezbollah with the missiles, prompting Washington to warn that the trade “potentially puts Lebanon at significant risk.”

“With this position, (the Americans) are encouraging Israel to carry out an aggression against Lebanon that they are trying to endorse at the international level,” Hezbollah MP Ali Fayyad said. “The United States is thus placing itself in a position of complicity in the event of aggression and it will have to take responsibility,” he said.

Fayyad said that Hezbollah, which is backed by Syria and Iran, did not comment on “Israeli inventions on its arsenal” but Peres’s accusation on Tuesday had made “the situation more tense than before.” Such statements “exacerbate tension and directly threaten the stability of the region,” the MP said, accusing Washington of trying “to cover up its failures as well as those of Israel” in the Middle East. According to Arab media and some think-tanks, Syria has been sending some of its own arsenal of Scuds to Lebanon, an allegation denied

by Damascus.

“We are obviously increasingly concerned about the sophisticated weaponry that is allegedly being transferred,” White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said on Wednesday. “We have expressed our concerns to those governments and believe that steps should be taken to reduce any risk and any danger,” Gibbs said, apparently referring to the Israeli and Syrian governments. Israel and Hezbollah in 2006 fought a 34-day war which killed 1,200 Lebanese, mostly civilians, and more than 160 Israelis, mainly soldiers. —AFP

Yemen boosts security amid threats SANAA: Yemen has beefed up security measures around embassies and the country’s strategic infrastructure due to the threat of attacks, the interior ministry said yesterday.

Without mentioning any specific threats, the ministry said it had instructed security officials both in Sanaa and elsewhere “to reinforce security around vital installations and embassies.” The ministry has asked officials to give daily reports on security precautions at the country’s oil facilities, concentrated in the southeast and considered to be an Al-Qaeda stronghold.

The ministry also inspections of security units “to prevent any attacks” on the country’s strategic infrastructure and “to prepare for any eventuality.” A source at the ministry said the units responsible for protecting oil facilities in Shabwa, Maarib and Hadramut provinces have been replaced by units that last week completed their training in counter-terrorist operations by Jordanian instructors. Yemen has intensified operations against AlQaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, the group’s local arm, since December, with the United States reportedly supplying intelligence and other support for the operations.

Meanwhile, Shiite rebels killed a Yemeni soldier in the flashpoint city of Saada, security officials said late on Friday, the latest breach of a truce to end a northern war.

The soldier, Namran Suleiman Jaber Hadshan, was a bodyguard to a member of parliament, the government’s security media office said in a statement.

His body was dumped in a well, the statement added.

On Friday, officials said Houthi rebels a day earlier had opened fire on a military plane flying above Saada, one of the most serious breaches of the truce. — Agencies

INTERNATIONAL

7

Tehran threatens to arrest Rafsanjani’s son on return TEHRAN: A son of influential Iranian cleric and ex-president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani faces arrest on return from abroad, Tehran’s prosecutor said in a newspaper report yesterday. The threat keeps up the pressure on Iran’s opposition movement, with which the former president has been sympathetic since last June’s disputed re-election of serving President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.

Pro-regime hardliners have repeatedly called for the arrest of Mehdi Rafsanjani and his sister Faezeh for their alleged role in inciting mass street protests which rocked Iran in the wake of the vote. “There were reports about the possibility of Mehdi Hashemi’s return to Iran over the (Iranian) New Year holidays,” which ran from March 21 to April 2, said Tehran prosecutor Abbas Jafari Dolatabadi.

“So officials in Tehran and Kish airports have been told he should be referred to the Tehran prosecutor’s office should he return,” Dolatabadi said, quoted in a reformist newspaper, Bahar.

According to Iranian media reports, Mehdi Hashemi has been living in Britain since he left

Iran last summer.

The animosity between Ahmadinejad and Rafsanjani, who heads two powerful state bodies, was highlighted during the vote campaign when the hardliner accused Rafsanjani’s children of financial corruption on television. Ahmadinejad also accused Rafsanjani of directing the opposition movement to his government. Several members of the Rafsanjani family, who openly backed opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi in the June election, were briefly detained during the protests.

A grandson, Hassan Lahooti, was arrested on arrival from Britain during New Year holidays and released on bail a day later, and a former top aide, Hossein Marashi, has been jailed for a year on charges of anti-regime propaganda. The pragmatic conservative cleric himself refused to openly side with any candidate before the poll. But Rafsanjani has blasted the authorities over their handling of the post-vote unrest and treatment of opposition supporters, dozens of whom were killed in protests and scores of others jailed. — AFP

GAZA: A Palestinian woman holds a picture of a relative held in an Israeli prison, during a protest to mark Prisoners Day, in Gaza City yesterday. — AP

Palestinians mark Prisoners’ Day ‘Foes’ Hamas, Fatah unite in protests against Israel

KHARTOUM: Former US President Jimmy Carter, head of The Carter Center monitoring mission for the Sudanese elections, attends a press conference yesterday. – AP

Sudan polls ‘fail to meet international standards’ Vote marred by confusion, complexity, harassment KHARTOUM: Sudan’s first multi-party elections in 24 years fell short of international standards, two international observation missions said yesterday in the first authoritative judgments on the poll. Final results of the presidential and legislative ballots, which had been intended to turn Sudan into a democratic state after years of war, are due on Tuesday.

President Omar Hassan El-Bashir, who seized power in a bloodless coup in 1989, is widely expected to win, most of his rivals having boycotted the proceedings, accusing him of vote rigging.

“These elections have struggled to reach international standards. They have not reached them all,” the head of the European Union observer mission in Sudan, Veronique de Keyser, told reporters. “It is apparent that the elections will fall short of meeting international standards and Sudan’s obligations for genuine elections in many respects,” said a statement from the US Carter Center. The preliminary statements will be a blow to Bashir who, analysts say, is looking for an internationally recognized win to legitimize his rule and fend off International Criminal Court charges that he masterminded war crimes in Sudan’s western Darfur region.

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS The elections were set up under a 2005 peace deal that ended more than two decades of north-south war in the oil producing state and also promised southerners a 2011 referendum on whether they should split off and become an independent country. A member of Sudan’s National Elections Commission defended the election, saying it was not surprising there had been problems given the country’s war-torn history.

“We cannot be expected to meet international standards-we are a country just emerging

from the war with very little electoral experience ... We have tried our best as a commission,” Philister Baya Lowiri said. De Keyser said there had been “significant deficiencies” including logistical problems and intimidation.

Opposition parties had been free to voice complaints throughout the process, she added, praising the enthusiasm of voters and polling staff. Overall turnout would be around 60 percent, she said. The elections as a whole were marred by complexity and confusion and dominated by the ruling parties in the north and south, the EU’s preliminary statement said.

“The elections in the south experienced a high incidence of intimidation and the threat or use of force ... State interference in the campaigns of opposition candidates was widespread in the south,” the Carter statement said. A separate mission from the European Parliament echoed many of the concerns but said the polls were still a step forward in the 2005 peace process. “They enabled an unprecedented political debate in a war-torn country,” MEP Ana Gomes said. The European Union deployed around 140 observers but pulled its team out of Darfur, the site of a seven-year civil conflict, saying safety concerns were limiting its movements.

Around 70 observers from the Carter Center, led by former US President Jimmy Carter, watched the vote. A body of local campaign groups criticized Carter for making statements during voting they said appeared to support the validity of the poll, ignoring their complaints of incomplete ballot papers, a rigged voter registration, the beating of voters and other irregularities. “We are writing to ask you to withdraw your observer mission from Sudan and salvage your own personal reputation and that of the Carter Center,” read the statement from the Sudan Democracy First Group. — Reuters

GAZA: Hamas and Fatah closed ranks yesterday to mark Palestinian Prisoners’ Day yesterday, in the first joint initiative by the bitter rivals since the latter was routed from Gaza in 2007. Representatives of the two factions, joined by members of smaller militant groups, relatives of prisoners and international activists, staged a sit-down protest and 24-hour fast outside the Gaza City offices of the Red Cross. Ismail Haniya, head of the Hamas government in Gaza, made a brief visit to call for Palestinian reconciliation and urge all Palestinians to fight Israeli occupation “by any means” and pressure Israel to free thousands of prisoners.

“We must put aside anything that can harm our unity,” Fatah representative Raafat Hamdouna said, hailing yesterday’s joint protest with the Islamist movement Hamas which expelled Fatah in deadly street fighting in June 2007. This year’s rallies and vigils in the Gaza Strip, the Israelioccupied West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem in support of the prisoners came a day after a detainee died in Israeli custody.

In Ramallah, about 1,000 people marched through the centre of the West Bank city, carrying pictures of imprisoned relatives and of Marwan Barghuti, a jailed leader of the mainstream Fatah party.

Barghuti, architect of the 2000 uprising against Israeli occupation, is serving five life terms but remains popular and is often spoken of as a successor to Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas. “We shall not rest until the prisoners issue is resolved,” prisoners’ affairs minister Issa Qaraqae told the crowd in Ramallah. Abbas said in a statement for the annual Prisoners’ Day that there could be no end to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict without the release of the prisoners. “There cannot be a solution or peace in our region without a final resolution of the prisoner issue and the release of all Palestinian detainees in Israeli prisons,” he said.

A man serving a 10-year sentence for attempted murder died in his prison cell in southern Israel late on Friday, Qaraqae’s ministry said, adding he was the 19th Palestinian to die in Israeli custody over the

past decade. Israeli prisons service officials, quoted in the media, said the man, Raed Abu Hamad, 31, had a history of medical problems and that his death was being investigated. In east Jerusalem, relatives held pictures of their jailed loved ones at the entrance to the walled Old City. In Gaza City, Haniya met prisoners’ aid officials and called on Arab countries to donate funds for prisoners and their families, in Gaza, the West Bank and Jerusalem.

More than 7,000 Palestinians, including 270 under the age of 18, are currently being held in Israeli prisons, according to data released by the Palestinian central bureau of statistics. Three of the prisoners have been in jail for more than 30 years, and 315 for more than 15 years, the office said in a statement released on the eve of Prisoners’ Day. Of those held, 264 are under administrative detention, meaning they are being held without trial. Since Israel seized the West Bank along with other Arab territories in the 1967 Middle East war, it has detained a total of more than 760,000 Palestinians, the statement said. — AFP

8

INTERNATIONAL

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Hard times spur gambling fever sweeping Serbia BELGRADE: Silence prevails in a brightly lit, sterile room as young men gaze intently at rows of television screens showing a variety of sporting fixtures, hoping Lady Luck will be on their side. It’s a scene that is getting more familiar in Serbia, where the pain of 17 percent unemployment, an average monthly wage of 400 euros ($550) and a weakening dinar currency has prompted an upsurge in gambling.

Thanks to relaxed legislation, betting shops-”kladionica” in the Serb languagehave sprouted up all over the Balkan nation, enabling punters to put money on anything from football matches to the Eurovision song contest. Some estimates reckon that 3.5 million Serbs gamble at least occasionally-more than half the total population-often in hopes of supplementing their meager household incomes. “If I’m lucky, sometimes I get even 20,000 dinars (around 200 euros, 270 dollars) every month,” unemployed accountant Milenko Pajovic, 32, told AFP at a neighborhood betting parlor in Belgrade.

Pajovic has been out of a steady job for several years, and took to gambling when his wife’s salary failed to cover the family’s rent and the growing needs of their two school-aged children. “I like football, I know a lot about the international leagues, so I

thought I could use all this useless knowledge and support from Lady Luck to try to make some money out of it,” he said. He has promised his wife that he will be careful and never stake more than his previous week’s earnings from odd jobs.

“And I have managed so far,” he said. “I must admit, it has not been easy, but I don’t see myself as a gambler-this is my part-time job.” But the cautious accountant is a rare example of restraint. “About 700,000 people are at risk of becoming excessive gamblers” in Serbia, said psychologist Jelena Manojlovic, a co-founder of SOS Center, a voluntary help centre for gambling addicts.

For many caught in financial hard times, she said, there is a sense that gambling can solve their money troubles, “unaware that such behavior carries a risk of becoming a pathologic gambler”.

In the centre’s first week of operations, more than 200 people called for advice-not only gamblers, but also relatives and friends. Gambling addicts are offered individual or group therapy which can last up to one year. Former gambler Dejan Stankovic, another co-founder of the SOS Center, said the advent of gambling online or via mobile text messages, sometimes on the outcome of television game shows, “present even higher risks” as punters no longer need to

leave their homes.

Uncontrolled gambling led Borko, 54, who declined to give his full name, to the brink of bankruptcy as he had to sell his family’s apartment to pay off thousands of euros in debts. Having lost his job in a formerly state-owned company, he has trouble finding employment. “Nobody wants a middle-aged civil servant, so I turned to the lottery first, then betting,” Borko recalled. “It was less then a year before I was up to my ears in debt.”

He tried to borrow from friends, but ended up going to loansharks. “In the end, I had to move to a one-room studio and use the money from selling my bigger flat to pay off debts,” recalled Borko.

He was alone in an empty flat when he decided two years ago to turn to the SOS Center. He has been “clean”, as he put it, for six months. Stankovic lamented the failure of the Serbian government-which rakes in 285 million euros in taxes and profits from gambling and national lottery-to do anything to counter the spread of gambling. “In other European countries, between five and 30 percent of lottery or gambling profits are set aside for prevention,” he said. “Here, nothing.” His group is proposing that its contact details be screened in casinos, betting halls and during televised lotteries.— AFP

Fight Al-Qaeda with satire and ridicule: Researchers Neutralize terrorism by ‘toxification’ LONDON: Satire and ridicule can help win the fight against Al-Qaeda by stripping it of its glamour and mystique, a team of British researchers argue in a report released in London and in comments to AFP. Beating the Islamist movement is as much about winning the battle of ideas and undermining Al-Qaeda’s counter-culture cachet as it is about conventional anti-terrorism operations, said the report. “Terrorism must be defeated through the deliberate ‘toxification’ of the Al-Qaeda brand; not by making it seem dangerous, but by exposing it as dumb,” Jamie Bartlett, one of the report’s authors said. “Al-Qaeda has to be ridiculed as the equivalent of a middle-aged dad at a school disco: enthusiastic, incompetent and excruciatingly uncool.”

Bartlett, together with Jonathan Birdwell and Michael King, published “The edge of violence, a radical approach of extremism” on the website of the London-based think tank Demos on Friday. The report summarized two years of work in Britain, Canada, Denmark, France and the Netherlands, which included interviews with 58 people convicted of terrorrelated offences and with 20 radical, but nonviolent Muslims.

Researchers also interviewed 70 Muslims in Canada and 75 local and national experts.

“An increasingly important part of Al-Qaeda’s appeal in the West is its dangerous, romantic and counter-cultural characteristics,” said an executive summary of the report. “Young Muslims are drawn, like young people throughout the ages, to excitement, rebellion and a desire to be cool,” Bartlett, who heads up the extremism and violence department at Demos said. “But like every anti-establishment movement before it, Al-Qaeda has become cool, with Mr bin Laden cast as the new Che,” he added. One could not deny that ideology was important to some of Al-Qaeda terrorists, he said. “But there is a blind spot that people don’t quite see: there is another side for some people which is the call, the idea of adventure. “You can understand: it’s quite exciting if you are from a rundown banlieue in Lyon or wherever, to go overseas, travel, see the world, get to shoot a gun. It’s not surprising that some young men would be drawn to that. “This is true of young men the world over: whether it’s in Islam, in football hooliganism or in gangs.” So while it was important for the police and intelligence agencies to continue their battle against Al-Qaeda, other tactics also had an important role to play. Part of the battle was to strip the movement of its glamour and mystique, said the report. Messages “from

a range of organizations, should stress that most Al-Qaeda-inspired terrorists are in fact incompetent, narcissistic, irreligious.” The idea was to demystify terrorist lives and deaths, said Bartlett. “The average day in the life of an Islamic extremist is similar to that of a petty criminal: tedious, lonely and punctuated by fear.”

Satire was another powerful tool, the report added, noting that it had been used effectively against both the Ku Klux Klan and the British Fascist party in the 1930s. Satire, however, was not a job for the authorities, but for others in society, it added. Fighting Al-Qaeda was not about preventing angry young Muslims from rebelling, but about finding ways to channel a natural sense of subversion and radicalism into non-violent areas, the report argued.

It also recommended a liberal approach to fighting Al-Qaeda’s ideology, exposing it to debate rather than suppressing it, but being sure to provide effective counter-arguments.

“The threat of violent radicalization can never be solved’ or completely neutralized; it can only be managed,” the report warned.

“Governments must focus on the things it can realistically change, while the lead role must be played by society-individuals, groups, organizations and communities.” — AFP

BELGRADE: People rub instant lottery tickets in the center of Belgrade. In Serbia, the pain of 17 percent unemployment, an average monthly wage of 400 euros (550 US dollars) and a weakening currency have prompted an upsurge in gambling. — AFP

Italian couple freed in Mali ROME: An Italian couple kidnapped in Mauritania in December have been released in Mali and handed over to authorities there, Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini said in a statement yesterday. He said Sergio Cicala, 65, and his wife Filomena Kabouree, who is originally from Burkina Faso, were being taken to safety by Malian authorities. They were kidnapped in Mauritania by a group linked to Al Qaeda.

Frattini expressed his “special gratitude for the help of the authorities in Mali, above all President Amadou Toumani Toure”.

The couple disappeared during a road trip to Burkina Faso. Their vehicle was later found abandoned and riddled with bullets in eastern Mauritania, close to the border with Mali, an area where an armed group linked to AlQaeda is know to operate. In February, Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb broadcast on the radio and internet an appeal from Cicala to Italy’s Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and President Giorgio Napolitano asking them to help secure the release of him and his wife.

The group, which threatened to kill them unless its demands were met for the release of imprisoned members, has taken half a dozen Europeans hostage in recent months, including three Spanish aid workers and a Frenchman who was freed in February. France expressed its relief at the release of the Italian couple in a statement from the foreign ministry in Paris, while Napolitano also welcomed the news that they had been freed. — Reuters

Human trafficking under spotlight in South Africa ERMELO: Police in this small town in eastern South Africa thought they had a problem with prostitutes they could solve in the usual way - arrest the women and get them off the streets. Then Warrant Officer Magda Scholtz found herself doing something unusual. She talked to the women, curious about what had brought them to Ermelo. She found the problem was human traffickers.

At a heavily guarded hearing Friday, seven suspects waived their right to bail in a case in which they are accused of recruiting women and at least one 16-year-old from across South Africa and bringing them to Ermelo, where they were treated like slaves and forced into prostitution. Two other suspects asked for more time to appeal for a bail, and a new hearing was set for month’s end. The case comes as South Africa prepares to enact tough new legislation against human traffickers.

The World Cup that opens in June also has focused attention on the crime, with questions about whether trafficking might increase because of the influx of partying fans. The women in the case before the court Friday spoke of being locked in their rooms when they weren’t working and of being beaten by the suspects. Their identity documents were taken from them and they were forced to take drugs. All their earnings were taken from them, and they were given little to eat beyond rice and cheap meat. “One girl was raped ... because she refused to work,” Scholtz said.

Four women who have agreed to testify against the suspects are in a witness pro-

tection program. Scholtz said even she does not know where they are, but is confident they will appear when the time comes during trial. Other women were afraid to testify, and the fear increased when a prostitute was found dead near the apartment complex where the women had been living.

Scholtz said the dead woman, who had been strangled, had said she would testify but refused to enter the protection program.

Vanessa Barolsky, a sociologist at South Africa’s Human Sciences Research Council, said police too often fail to listen to the women, children and migrants, who are the most common victims of traffickers.

“Often what happens is that people are just investigated for prostitution without anybody investigating further,” she said.

“There are a lot of cases that are probably lost.” Barolsky’s government-supported think tank released a report in March that explored trafficking in South Africa.

The report said victims included children brought from elsewhere in Africa or the South African countryside to work as street vendors, baby sitters and maids in South Africa’s cities. Some work in conditions very close to slavery, and those who leave at times fall into sex work out of desperation. Women from Asia have been recruited to South Africa with promises of greater earnings here. Some come knowing the jobs are as prostitutes, while others fall for false promises of other work.

Trafficking is not specifically a crime, making statistics hard to compile. The Ermelo case is

typical - the suspects are charged under provisions of the country’s sexual offenses law. A proposed South African law that has been years in the making creates a trafficking offense, punishable by life in prison.

That’s comparable to the possible sentencing under the racketeering and sex crimes laws that have been used in the past to prosecute traffickers. In addition, the proposed law criminalizes, under certain circumstances, using the services of a trafficked person, providing premises for traffickers, transporting victims, and failing to report suspected cases.

Provisions to guard against deporting victims, provide them shelter and other aid and help them get compensation from traffickers also are laid out. Malebo Khotu-Rammopo, the point person on human trafficking for South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority, said lawmakers, prosecutors and others were still discussing how to implement the proposals, and the new law may not go into effect late this year or early 2011.

In Ermelo, police spokesman Captain Leonard Hlathi said the young women had been promised “decent jobs” in Mpumalanga, a province whose roads include trucking routes from the neighboring countries of Swaziland and Mozambique. “When they got to Mpumalanga, it was a different story,” Hlathi said.

“They were forced to work as prostitutes.” Hlathi said the lesson was clear: However desperate for work, don’t set out with people making promises too good to be true. “You might not come home.” — AP

Poland honors crash victims MANCHESTER: British Prime Minister, and leader of the Labor Party Gordon Brown (right), shakes hands with leader of the opposition Liberal Democrats Nick Clegg, as they and opposition Conservative party leader David Cameron (center) leave the set after participating in the first of three live television debates prior to the May 6 election. — AFP

British ruling party pushed into third Liberal Democrats up 8 points on 30 percent LONDON: Britain’s ruling Labor Party was pushed into third place by the Liberal Democrats after the country’s first televised leaders’ debate, the latest opinion poll showed. The daily Sun/YouGov poll showed support for Labor down 3 points at 28 percent, the Liberal Democrats up 8 points on 30 percent and the main opposition Conservatives down 4 points on 33 percent.

The poll was a boost for Britain’s third biggest political party and its leader Nick Clegg, ahead of the May 6 parliamentary election. It followed a well-received performance by Clegg in Thursday’s historic live debate, in which the 43-year-old was perceived by voters and commentators to have emerged better than Prime Minister Gordon Brown and Conservative leader David Cameron with a relaxed and confident appearance. If the latest poll were applied

nationally, Labor would be the largest party, but it would fall short of a majority under Britain’s simple majority electoral system.

A hung parliament, in which no party has an overall majority, is the least desired outcome for markets concerned about tackling the country’s record budget deficit. More than 10 million people tuned in to at least part of Thursday’s 90-minute debate, an important moment in the campaign.

Cameron’s party has been ahead in the polls for months but its lead over Labor has narrowed since January. He was expected to do well in the debate because of his ability as an orator, often delivering speeches without notes. However, he was overshadowed

by Clegg and observers suggested, even before the Sun/YouGov poll was published, that he would have to be more critical of the Liberal Democrats’ policies in the next two

televised debates, on international affairs and the economy, if he was to end Labor’s 13 years in power.

The centrist Liberal Democrats have pressed for tough action to break up banks and have called for a 10 percent levy on banking profits and tax breaks for the poorest.

Sterling weakened on Friday at the prospect that more voters might be tempted to vote for them. It followed a ComRes survey for ITV News that put the Liberal Democrats on 24 percent, its highest score in such a poll since the last election in 2005, but still behind Labor and the Conservatives.

The Liberal Democrats, the party of World War One leader David Lloyd George, are perennially relegated to third place in British elections because its voting system favors the two larger parties. — Reuters

WARSAW: Poland paid an emotional tribute yesterday to President Lech Kaczynski, his wife Maria and 94 other mostly senior political and military officials killed in a plane crash one week ago in Russia. Up to 100,000 mourners, many clutching red-and-white national flags threaded with black ribbons, packed into the vast Pilsudski Square in central Warsaw to commemorate the victims of the country’s most devastating accident since World War Two. “They all had their dreams and hopes for the future of their homeland.

This is a serious test for us to understand those hopes well and take them into the future,” Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who had been a political rival of Kaczynski’s, told the crowd.

“This is the most we can do for them. We are here to remember them. Poland is here to remember them. We will not forget,” Tusk said. Behind him on the podium a tall, white cross rose up between two large black panels bearing the portraits of all the dead, whose names an actor read out one by one. Kaczynski’s twin brother Jaroslaw, a former prime minister who now heads Poland’s main opposition party, sat at the front of the mourners with other family members,

including the president’s daughter Marta, 29. Kaczynski had two grandchildren.

Yesterday’s commemoration, which included a three-gun salute and a Roman Catholic requiem mass, came one day before the planned burial of Kaczynski and his wife in the crypt of Wawel cathedral in the ancient capital of Krakow in southern Poland. World leaders including US President Barack

Obama were scheduled to attend the Wawel funeral. But a huge volcanic ash cloud drifting across Europe from Iceland has closed Polish airports and it was unclear how many would manage to come. Poland’s meteorology institute said the ash cloud covered all of Poland’s territory yesterday, but would partly disperse by today.

KATYN Kaczynski and his entourage

WARSAW: Former Polish Prime Minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski (left) brother of late President Kaczynski, and Marta Kaczynska (2nd left) only daughter of the Presidential couple, attend a national memorial service in Pilsudski Square in Warsaw yesterday.— AP

had been heading last Saturday to Katyn forest near Smolensk in western Russia to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the massacre of 22,000 Polish officers and intellectuals by the Soviet secret police. The crash has stunned Poland. Tens of thousands lined the streets of Warsaw for the return of the coffins from Russia and the area in front of Kaczynski’s palace in Warsaw’s picturesque Old Town has been transformed into a shrine to the dead, bedecked with candles, flowers, crucifixes and national flags.

Poland’s acting President Bronislaw Komorowski said the tragedy had united Poles of all political beliefs and he also thanked Russia’s leaders for their close cooperation immediately after the crash and for their gestures of solidarity. Poland has long had a difficult relationship with Russia, its communist-era overlord, but Poles hope their second Katyn tragedy may bolster a cautious rapprochement begun by Tusk.

Last Sunday, in an abrupt change of tack, Moscow allowed for the first time a leading state channel to air Polish director Andrzej Wajda’s harrowing film “Katyn” that chronicles the 1940 massacre. — Reuters

Sunday, April 18, 2010

INTERNATIONAL

9

US House to take up Washington voting rights bill WASHINGTON: The US House of Representatives was on track to take up legislation next week giving the US capital’s estimated 600,000 residents a member of Congress with full voting rights.

The US Senate passed a bill last year giving Washington a representative will full powers, but attached an amendment rolling back the US capital’s tough restrictions on firearm ownership, leading the measure to stall in the House.

Democratic House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said in a statement late Thursday that he planned to bring the measure “to the House Floor for a vote next week” after consulting Washington’s non-voting House delegate, Eleanor Holmes Norton.

Supporters of voting rights for Washington “have strongly expressed to me that now is the time to end the injustice denying Americans living in our

nation’s capital full voting representation in Congress,” said Hoyer. “I am hopeful that the House will vote to approve this bill with the bipartisan support it has received in the past. This is an effort that is long overdue-on behalf of the residents of Washington, DC and all Americans who believe that all taxpayers deserve representation in Congress,” he said.

As part of a compromise, the legislation to give Washington’s Democratic-

leaning population a representative would also add a seat for the Republicanleaning state of Utah. The US Constitution provided for the creation of a federal district to house the US capital, but reserved the right to elect fully vested representatives to “the people of the several states.” Currently, Holmes Norton can only vote legislation when it comes before a committee, and can introduce bills. — AFP

Home-grown, solo terrorists as bad as Al-Qaeda: FBI chief Qaeda and its affiliates committed to striking US WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama signs a memorandum establishing the Great Outdoors Initiative at the White House Conference on America’s Great Outdoors, at the Interior Department in Washington. — AP

Volcano forces US military to reroute medical flights Obama huddles with Afghan war cabinet WASHINGTON: US commanders have suspended medical evacuations of wounded soldiers to a military hospital in Germany due to the volcanic ash clouding European skies, the Pentagon said Friday. Soldiers seriously wounded in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are usually flown to Ramstein Air Base in Germany to be treated at the nearby Landstuhl medical center, the largest American military hospital outside the United States.

But the volcano in Iceland has spewed clouds of ash over Europe, grounding thousands flights in the continent’s biggest air travel shutdown since World War II. The US medical flights will instead head to Andrews Air Force base outside Washington, after flying across southern Europewhich was still clear of ash, Pentagon spokesman Bryan Whitman told reporters. “So we’re making adjustments as necessary,” he said, adding there had been no delays in medical evacuations.

The military planes would either refuel in midair or at US bases in Italy, officials said. Although the American military had diverted flights around the ash cloud, the volcano had not affected operations in Iraq or Afghanistan, Whitman said. At least four US air bases were closed in Europe due to the volcano, two in Britain and two in Germany, he said. Europe’s air traffic control authorities predicted 17,000 flights would be cancelled Friday.

Experts warned the fallout from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano in southeast Iceland could take several days to clear.

Meanwhile, US President Barack Obama hud-

dled with his Afghan war cabinet on Friday, for the first full meeting since his administration publicly sparred with Afghan President Hamid Karzai.

Obama met in the Situation Room of the White House with top foreign policy advisors including Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and US special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan Richard Holbrooke.

US Afghan war commander Stanley McChrystal and US ambassador to Kabul Karl Eikenberry were due to join the meeting by video conference, two weeks after meeting Obama during his surprise trip to meet Karzai. Top military brass and senior administration foreign policy, security and intelligence officials were also taking part in the meeting. Since then, anti-foreigner outbursts by Karzai and White House disquiet over his comments have raised fresh doubts about the Afghan president’s capacity to serve as a reliable ally in the Afghan War. Obama backed Karzai in an interview with Australian public broadcaster ABC aired on Thursday, suggesting he may have been misquoted in recent reports that said he had threatened to join the Taleban. But he said Washington would continue to “put pressure” on Karzai to deliver reforms that would tackle corruption and improve the lives of ordinary Afghans.

“I think that President Karzai is capable of leading his country into the 21st century and stabilizing it. He’s got a tough task but the reason we’re there ultimately is not to support one man,” Obama said. — Agencies

NORTH CAROLINA: In this file photo Gary Jackson, the then-President of Blackwater Worldwide, is seen at Blackwater’s offices in Moyock. Jackson has been charged with using straw purchases to stockpile automatic weapons at the security firm and filing false documents to cover up gifts given to the king of Jordan. — AP

Blackwater former chief faces weapons charges WASHINGTON: US prosecutors have unveiled illegal weapons charges against five former employees of the controversial security firm previously known as Blackwater, including the company’s ex-president. A federal indictment accused them of having illegally stockpiled and altered weapons and of having falsified registration forms in a bid to “gain an advantage over competitors... and thereby profit from obtaining and keeping government’s contracts.”

The company, which is now known as Xe, has been implicated in a slew of scandals related to its operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere. It was banned from Iraq after allegations its guards opened fire on innocent civilians, though a US court cleared company employees of criminal charges. Friday’s indictment detailed various schemes allegedly carried out by company employees, including former president Gary Jackson, at a North Carolina facility.

In one instance, the defendants allegedly had short barrels installed on what had been long-barrel rifles “in order to facilitate the company’s performance of protective services contracts in Iraq and Afghanistan, believing they were better adapted to use inside vehicles and buildings.”

In another, they sought to evade a two-weapon limit on a certain class of firearm by arranging “straw purchases with a small local sheriff’s office.”

“Blank letterhead stationery from the sheriff’s office was provided to Blackwater, which was used to prepare letters claiming the sheriff’s office wanted to purchase 17 Romanian AK47s and 17 fully automatic M4s,” the indictment said. “The weapons were paid for by Blackwater, were immediately delivered to Blackwater upon their arrival, and were locked in Blackwater’s armory to which the sheriff’s office had no direct access.” An additional scheme involved an attempt by the company to win a lucrative contract in Jordan.

In a bid to impress visiting Jordanian officials, the defendants presented them with firearms inscribed with the Blackwater logo, and then falsified government registration documents to hide having given away the weapons. The five defendants, including former executive vice president William Mathews, general counsel Andrew Howell, Ana Bundy, another vice president, and former armorer Ronald Slezak, face charges carrying a maximum of 20 years in prison, though each faces multiple counts. — AFP

WASHINGTON: Al-Qaeda still aims to strike inside the United States but home-grown or unaffiliated extremists now “pose an equally serious threat,” FBI chief Robert Mueller warned US lawmakers. “Al-Qaeda and its affiliates are still committed to striking us in the United States,” Mueller told a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee, pointing to plots to bomb New York City subways and the failed Christmas airline attack.

“Home-grown and lone-wolf extremists pose an equally serious threat,” the Federal Bureau of Investigation director

said, citing the shootings at the sprawling Fort Hood army base in Texas.

Experts have warned that a “lone wolf”-an extremist acting alone, without connections to an established network like Al-Qaeda - may be the most difficult threat for authorities to thwart.

“We have also seen US-born extremists plotting to commit terrorism overseas,” such as Mumbai attacks planner David Headley, the US-born son of a former Pakistani diplomat and American woman, said Mueller. “These terrorist threats are diverse, far-reaching and ever-changing, and to combat

US may bow to ‘Chinese overlords’: Republicans WASHINGTON: The United States owes China so much money that “Americans may soon bow down to their Chinese overlords,” US Republicans said in an Internet ad marking the US tax filing deadline. The National Republican Senatorial Committee’s wry advertisement takes aim at what Republicans charge is government overspending by US President Barack Obama and his Democratic allies.

In the ad, a man and a woman say Obama’s administration is spending so much it “raises the national debt ceiling to the point that Americans may soon bow down to their Chinese overlords” and then laugh. Under Obama’s predecessor, George W. Bush, the US national debt soared from 5.72 trillion dollars to 10.6 trillion and has climbed to more than 12.8 trillion under Obama. Beijing sliced its holdings to 877.5 billion dollars in February but remained the top holder of American government debt, according to the US Treasury Department’s latest figures on international capital flows.

Climate gap can be bridged Four months after the widely criticized Copenhagen summit, key nations including the United States and China are trying to find out if they can bridge wide gaps on climate change.

Representatives of 17 major economies making up more than 80 percent of global emissions gather in Washington on Sunday to try to grope forward amid disputes on the shape of a future treaty on fighting climate change. It is not the first meeting since Copenhagen-representatives in the nearly 200-nation UN Framework Convention on Climate Change met last weekend in Bonn, Germany for talks again riven by disagreements.

But the US-led Major Economies Forum offers a more intimate setting, away both from cameras and from smaller nations such as Sudan and Venezuela whose firebrand negotiators held up sessions in Copenhagen. White House aide Michael Froman and US climate negotiator Todd Stern sent participants a set of questions they want to discuss at the Washington forum, which includes a closed-door dinner. One question asks simply what each country seeks from the next UN climate summit to take place in December in Cancun, Mexico.

“Most countries have acknowledged it’s going to be very difficult to close the deep gaps between countries such as the US and China,” said Alden Meyer, director of strategy and policy at the Union of Concerned Scientists, which supports action against climate change. The Washington talks offer a chance to “see if there is any convergence on what these key countries want, because if there is, that will give us a sense that there might be some way forward to get progress in Cancun,” Meyer said.

China has surpassed the United States for the dubious distinction of being the world’s top emitter of carbon, which UN scientists say is causing global warming that could put entire species at risk if unchecked. China has announced plans to reduce the intensity of carbon emissions and a recent study found that the growing Asian economy had leapfrogged the United States as the top investor in green technology. But China, India and other developing nations have resisted a legally binding treaty, arguing that wealthy nations bear primary responsibility for climate change.

The United States was the only major country to reject the Kyoto Protocol, whose obligations expire at the end of 2012, calling it unfair for making no demands of emerging economies.

President Barack Obama is pushing for the first-ever nationwide plan to curb US emissions, with senators set to present longdelayed legislation later this month. In a recent interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corp, Obama said that while the United States needed to act on climate change, China and other emerging countries should not wait until their living standards improve as it was “not a sustainable, practical approach.”— Agencies

these threats, the FBI must sustain our overseas contingency operations and engage our intelligence and law enforcement partners both here at home and abroad,” he said.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano noted a rise in US citizens seeking to carry out acts of homegrown terrorism over the past 15 months, since she took the cabinet position in early 2009.

Individuals that have been radicalized enough to travel oversees to learn “the tradecraft of a terrorist and then return,” or even learn at home on the

Internet, are a focus of her department, working with local law enforcement to spot the threats, she told a luncheon at the National Press Club in Washington.

The key question, she said, surrounds “when someone is moving from First Amendment (freedom of speech) activity-plain old angry rhetoric, which we have had in this country since we began-to actually playing a violent act.”

The proper “exchange of threat information,” between national and local agencies, enables authorities to minimize the risk of attacks from materializing, she said. — AFP

47 netted as US busts smuggling network LOS ANGELES: US authorities arrested 47 people in a sweeping bust of a human smuggling network that hauled thousands of illegal immigrants across the United States from the Arizona-Mexico border. The owners and employees of five Arizona commercial shuttle companies were among those arrested in an operation that capped a yearlong operation involving US and Mexican police, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency said in a statement.

The targeted shuttle companies are accused of having transported thousands of illegal immigrants from the border city of Nogales north to Tucson and Phoenix in Arizona, a state that straddles an important human and drug smuggling corridor. “This operation has dealt a serious blow to the infrastructure of some of Arizona’s most prolific and profitable human smuggling organizations,” ICE Assistant Secretary John Morton told reporters. “We’ve dismantled these transnational organizations and literally seized the engines that were driving the criminal enterprise.”

The painstaking operation that led to the arrests was carried out with authorities in Mexico and was dubbed “Operation In Plain Sight” because of the brazen nature of the shuttle companies’ activities. While most of the

smuggled immigrants were from Mexico and Central America, others came from as far away as China and were taken across the United States to major cities. In a bid to make the trips seem legitimate, the immigrants transported by the shuttle services were handed pre-printed fare receipts of 30 dollars, court documents showed.

More than 800 agents and officers from nine federal, state and local law enforcement agencies descended on the Arizona communities of Phoenix, Tucson, Nogales and Rio Rico to carry out the searches and arrests. Mexican police meanwhile made arrests in neighboring Nogales in the Mexican state of Sonora. The defendants were charged with several federal crimes, including money laundering, alien smuggling and conspiracy. A conviction for conspiracy to transport illegal immigrants carries a maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars.

US Attorney for the District of Arizona Dennis Burke said the case highlighted the “remarkable degree” of coordination between human smugglers and legal shuttle companies.

“The defendants conspired to transport thousands of people across the border and onward to destinations throughout the United States-much of it playing out in the light of day under the guise of legitimate business,” he said. — AFP

10

INTERNATIONAL

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Blasts rock China JV hydropower site in Myanmar YANGON: A series of bombs exploded at a controversial hydropower project site being jointly built by a Chinese company in northern Myanmar yesterday, just two days after bombs killed eight in the former capital of Yangon.

There was no immediate report of casualties or damage. “We don’t have any further details about it as yet,” said a government official who

asked not to be identified since he was not allowed to talk to the media.

Myanmar’s junta has in the past blamed bombings on anti-government dissident groups and separate ethnic rebels seeking autonomy in the former Burma, which has been under military rule since 1962.

China’s state-owned China Power Investment Corporation (CPI) and Myanmar’s private Asia World

Company jointly launched the hydropower project on the upper reaches of the giant Irrawaddy river at the end of last year. The plant is near where the Maykha-Malikha Rivers join, the official from the Kachin state capital of Myitkyina, about 920 miles north of Yangon said.

Located about 22 miles north of Myitkyina and about 50 miles from the Chinese border, it is estimated

the project will generate 3,600 megawatts when completed, and most of the electricity will be exported to China.

The project has caused concern among local people and environmentalists since it involves the relocation of several villages and may cause ecological damage to the Irrawaddy, the life blood of Myanmar which flows from north to south. The blasts

came two days after three bomb explosions in former capital Yangon killed eight people and wounded 170 during the traditional New Year water festival.

In May 2005, three bombs exploded at a convention centre and supermarkets in Yangon, killing 23 people and wounding more than 160.

There have been a few sporadic bombings since. At the time, the

authorities blamed ethnic rebel groups, including the Karen National Union, the Shan State Army-South, and the Karenni National Progressive Party, as well as a government-in-exile known as the National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma, which opposes the junta’s rule.

In 1990, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi’s party won a

general election but was not allowed to take power by the military, which continues to maintain a tight grip on the country. An election is expected to be held later in the year but no timeframe has been set. The poll has been widely derided in advance as a sham to make the country appear democratic, with the military retaining control over key institutions. — Reuters

Kyrgyz interim govt rejects US air base Kyrgyzstan still on edge; Bakiyev fate remains uncertain BISHKEK: A top official in Kyrgyzstan’s interim government said yesterday that a US air base supporting operations in Afghanistan is “not justified,” the first sign of significant divisions over the facility. Azymbek Beknazarov, the acting prosecutor general, is deputy leader of the interim government and is likely retain a position of power when the permanent government is formed, giving him significant sway over the Manas base. Since a bloody uprising that culminated in the toppling of President Kurmanbek Bakiyev, the interim government’s leader has announced the Manas air base can remain open for a year after the lease expires in July. Beknazarov and others in the interim government charge the US with ignoring their oppression when they opposed Bakiyev because it wanted to protect Manas. “All the Americans care about is that the military base stays,” Beknazarov said.

“They forgot about freedom, about democratic values. They forgot about Kyrgyzstan - they are only looking at their military base.” “In my opinion, the presence of the Manas center is not justified,” he said. Beknazarov declined to comment on whether he or anyone in the interim government will attempt to initiate the closure of the base.

The US Embassy in Bishkek declined to comment. At Bakiyev’s presidential compound near the southern village of Teyit, Special Forces yesterday cordoned off the area to allow prosecutors to enter and search for weapons.

New violence erupts Meanwhile, New unrest erupted in south Kyrgyzstan yesterday as the interim authorities struggled to assert their authority and uncertainty grew over the

BISHKEK: US servicemen walk at the US air base Manas near the capital. — AP whereabouts of toppled president Kurmanbek Bakiyev. Bakiyev dramatically flew out of Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan late Thursday, with world powers and the new authorities hoping his exit would restore stability after 84 were killed in protests last week.

But the interior minister of Kyrgyzstan’s interim government was beaten up as scuffles erupted at a protest against the new authorities in the south of the country where the bulk of Bakiyev supporters are concentrated, reports said. Bolotbek Sherniyazov was seeking to talk to 500 local policemen in the southern city of Jalalabad who were protesting against the actions of the new authorities when he was attacked, radio Azattyk, the Kyrgyz station of US-funded Radio Free Europe reported.

He finally managed to flee to his jeep and leave the scene as the protestors hurled bottles at his car, the report said.

A similar report was also carried by Russia’s ITAR-TASS news agency.

Dozens of protestors then entered the regional administration building, briefly taking hostage the regional governor Bekut Asanov.

After an hour he was allowed to go but the protestors remained in the building, Azattyk said. It said their chief demand was the release of Bakiyev ally and former defense minister Baktybek Kaliyev, who was detained by the authorities after the departure of the ex-president.

Meanwhile, uncertainty was growing over the whereabouts of Bakiyev, with some reports saying he has already moved on from Kazakhstan. Bakiyev has

spent the last days in the southern Kazakhstan city of Taraz. “Bakiyev has left Kazakhstan. He is no longer on the territory of the country,” an informed source told the Interfax-Kazakhstan news agency, saying it was not clear where he was now. Another source also told the agency that Bakiyev had flown out of Taraz late on Friday for an unknown destination. Kazakh officials contacted by AFP could not be reached for further comment.

Earlier reports had said that Bakiyev was due to arrive in the ex-Soviet state of Belarus, whose President Alexander Lukashenko had last week offered him asylum. But Belarusian officials denied he would be coming. There has also been speculation in the Russian media that Bakiyev could be seeking to head to Turkey.

The interim government of Kyrgyzstan have said they will seek to bring him to justice wherever he goes.

“Wherever Kurmanbek Bakiyev goes, the international community must see him as a criminal,” the deputy head of the interim government Azimbek Beknazarov told reporters in Bishkek.

Bakiyev came to power in a popular uprising known as the Tulip Revolution in 2005, but in recent years he came under increasing criticism for authoritarianism and corruption. The government has also launched operations to arrest close family members and allies of Bakiyev, but so far appears only to have netted Kaliyev. An operation to arrest his brother and former top regime figure Zhanysh Bakiyev ended in apparent failure when he slipped out of his village when it was surrounded by the security forces, officials said. — Agencies

‘Red shirts’ bolster city centre camp security

Malaysia reforms at heart of by-election

Thai PM places army chief in charge of security

HULU SELANGOR: Malaysia’s opposition put questions over Prime Minister Najib Razak’s ability to deliver on his reform pledges at the centre of a tense by-election campaign which started yesterday. The race for the mainly rural seat located about 44 miles from the capital pits opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim’s party against the National Front coalition and could provide an early verdict of Najib’s reforms. Thousands of opposition supporters chanted “down with Najib,” and “long live the people” as they gathered opposite an equally large number of government supporters at the nomination centre in Hulu Selangor on Saturday morning.

Political tensions in this Southeast Asian country have been high since a general election in 2008, in which the coalition that has now ruled Malaysia for 52 years suffered record losses. Hundreds of riot police kept watch on the rival groups of supporters who were separated by barbed wire as police helicopters circled overhead in the constituency the opposition won in the 2008 general election for the first time with a majority of 198 votes.

“Najib was someone who wanted to be everything to all people and ended up finally satisfying almost no one,” said Dzulkifli Ahmad, a senior figure in the Pan Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), one of the three parties in the opposition People’s Alliance. Najib, who took office in April last year, has pledged to woo foreign investment and revive his ailing coalition. Last month, he announced a series of economic reforms to boost growth.— Reuters

BANGKOK: Thai anti-government protesters stepped up security at their base in an upmarket Bangkok shopping centre yesterday, a week after bloody clashes with security forces killed 24 people. Thousands of protesters gathered under leaden skies to commemorate the deaths as more permanent fixtures of medical supplies, sanitary facilities and foodstalls were set up. The “red shirts” have pledged to turn the area into a “final battleground” to oust Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, forcing high-end malls to close and sending tourists fleeing the area.

Abhisit said he would crack down on violent elements among protesters whom he calls “terrorists” and on Friday put his army chief in charge of security operations at the expense of Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban after a bungled attempt to arrest red shirt leaders. However, he made no indication there would be immediate attempt to dislodge the protesters, calling for patience. “There has been more talk of crackdown and possible attempts to take us in, so we have to make sure we are not infiltrated,” protest leader Nattawut Saikua said, adding that the red shirts had no plans to march on Saturday and Sunday.

The red shirt leaders would make new sleeping arrangements at undisclosed locations, Nattawut said, as leaders recruited more volunteers among protesters to become their “guards”. The heightened security came after some leaders were surrounded by police on Friday morning. One made an escape by climbing down a hotel by rope, making headlines and highlighting security forces’ failure at crowd control. The red shirts back former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was ousted in a military coup in 2006 and want Abhisit to call snap elections, something the Oxford-educated premier has refused to do.

They threatened to march to a nearby business district on Monday, targeting Bangkok Bank’s headquarters. “We are considering taking our fight to a business associated with the ruling elite,” said a leader Suporn Attawong. Thailand’s biggest bank was targeted in February by the protesters who accused it of crony capitalism amid ties to Prem Tinsulanonda, a former premier and

BANGKOK: Pro-government demonstrators wave flags and hold the portraits of King Bhumibol Aduyadej and Queen Sirikit during a rally to support Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva at Victory Monument yesterday. The demonstrators calling themselves ‘No Colors’ took part in the daily demonstration to oppose the dissolving of parliament demanded by the Red Shirt, they also called for severe legal action to be taken against the red shirt protesters who have been occupying the business intersection in a rally for nearly a month. - AP chief adviser of Thailand’s revered king.

Prem, an honorary adviser to the bank’s chairman, is also accused of playing a role in the coup against Thaksin, accusations which he has repeatedly denied. The political crisis in Thailand has hit tourism, a mainstay of Southeast Asia’s second largest economy, hard and caused a selloff in the stock market which has given up almost all of this year’s gains as foreign investors have sold heavily.

Protesters held a Buddhist ceremony to mark last weekend’s clashes. Leaders gave monks alms and flowers, asking for blessings on behalf of their late comrades.

Although Bangkok was quiet seven days after the bloody clashes in which 19 protesters and 5 soldiers were killed and more than 800 people wounded, few expect a peaceful or fast resolution of the conflict. Supporters of the government came out in thousands to express their disapproval of the red shirts on

Friday. Adding to the risk of clashes among civilians, an anti-Thaksin protest group known as the “yellow shirts”, who in 2008 occupied Bangkok airport, said they would meet on Sunday to discuss their next move.

GOVT LOOKS TO ARMY Abhisit made the first appearance on national television in four days on Friday from a fortified barracks on the outskirts of Bangkok, putting army chief General Anupong Paochinda in charge of security operations. The move appeared to bind Anupong, who retires in September, into the government after he had expressed reluctance to use force, calling for the crisis to be resolved with “political solutions”. “A lot of people are losing patience and they are blaming the government for its failure to end this,” said Sombat Thamrongthanyawong of the National Institute of Development Administration. — Reuters

JIEGU: The body of a young earthquake victim is carried towards a mass cremation on a hillside in Jiegu, Yushu County yesterday. — AFP

Grim end for Tibetans Tibetans cremate the dead as quake toll mount YUSHU: Vultures wheeled above a grieving crowd after a traditional “sky burial” yesterday and Tibetans held a mass cremation after an earthquake devastated part of northwest China last week. The death toll reached 1,339 with 332 missing, Xinhua news agency said, after a 6.9 magnitude quake hit Yushu county in Qinghai province, where most residents are ethnic Tibetans, devoted to their own branch of Buddhism. Thousands of people converged on a hillside cremation site, where a convoy of trucks took many hundreds of bodies that had been kept at the main local monastery.

Many wept and chanted as crimson-gowned monks lit the piles of bodies covered in yak oil, wood and old tires. Hundreds of monks droned prayer-chants as the flames rose above the trenches, sending a column of smoke into the sky.

“People will feel very sad for a long time,” said Dashi, a middle-aged local man in the crowd.

“Tibetans have never experienced such a disaster in 2,500 years.” For some, the grief was mixed with defiant pride. Many Tibetans resent the Han Chinese presence in the mountainous region high on the Tibetan plateau, and the controls the ruling Chinese Communist Party places on their Buddhist religion.

After the earthquake shook Yushu on Wednesday, thousands of Buddhist monks rushed in to help with rescue and relief, and Tibetans at the funeral spoke proudly of their work. “I also feel that today there is unity among Tibetans,” said Bairi Caile, a businessman at the cremation.

“Today is a day for Tibetans, for all Tibetan compatriots,” said Guyong Wose, a 19-year-old monk who had travelled from Tagong in southwest Sichuan province to help the quake victims.

SKY BURIAL The Dalai Lama, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader to whom many of Yushu’s inhabitants say they are loyal but whom Beijing reviles as a “separatist” for demanding autonomy for his homeland, said he longed to go to the area. “When Taiwan was struck by a typhoon last year, I was able to visit the affected families and pray with them for those who had perished in that disaster,” the Dalai Lama said in the Indian hill town of Dharamsala. “At present, I am unable to comfort those directly affected, but I would like them to know I am praying for them,” he said, while commending Chinese authorities’ quick relief efforts.

Before the cremation, some monks higher up on the hillside oversaw a small “sky burial”, when parts of the dead were fed to the vultures, who were later seen circling through the smoke billowing from the hillside fire. An ethnic Tibetan man called Zhaxi said one of the dead fed to the vultures, who have wingspans of almost two meters was his uncle, Suona, who died in the quake, crushed in his home. Zhaxi said the family had paid for the ceremony. “If you can do it, a sky burial is the best way, the most pure way,” said Zhaxi.

“This is what our tradition expects.”

Others remain buried beneath crumpled buildings. Several people were pulled out alive from rubble yesterday morning, state television said.

For the residents of Yushu, the mourning was an interlude as they struggled to put together their lives. Residents and army and police rescue teams, as well as the monks, picked through collapsed homes, looking for the dead and possible survivors, as well as bits and pieces to make life living in tents or in the cold outdoors a little easier.

GOOD REINCARNATION Shortly after dawn yesterday, Buddhist monks lifted the hundreds of bodies into a dozen or so trucks to take them for mass cremation in the foothills of the town.

The ceremony was a mix of tenderness and blunt practicality. The monks lay the wrapped bodies in the back of the trucks, where they looked like bundles of used bedding, and monks and residents sat on top of the bodies and prayed for them as they drove towards the cremation site.

“This prayer is wishing that they have a good reincarnation and that their suffering is over,” said Gansong Getai, a local official who had volunteered to drive one of the funeral trucks. The crowd at the funeral was a parade of Tibetan society in all its variety: burly monks, herders with sun-cracked faces, long-haired young men on motorbikes, and officials and police also muttering prayers. Police were on hand, but left handling the crowds and the bodies to the monks in their crimson robes. “We are all Tibetans, we are all the same people,” said Laojiang, a Tibetan Buddhist monk who had travelled to Yushu to help with quake relief. His hands were covered in bloody bandages from digging through rubble, hunting for survivors. “I feed very sad, but I also feel we have shown our best spirit.” — Reuters

North Korea denies link to South’s ship mishap SEOUL: North Korea yesterday denied that it sank a South Korean naval vessel near their disputed sea border late last month. There has been growing speculation in the South that the ship had been hit by a North Korean torpedo, killing 46 sailors and raising fears it could trigger conflict on the divided peninsula. The North’s KCNA news agency accused the conservative government in Seoul of trying to foist blame on its reclusive neighbor to boost sagging support ahead of local elections in the South in June.

“The puppet military warmongers, rightwing conservative politicians and the group of other traitors in South Korea are now foolishly seeking to link the accident with the north at any cost,” the North’s KCNA news agency quoted an unnamed military commentator as saying. “Another sinister aim sought by the puppet regime in floating the ... story is to justify the persistent and anachronistic policy towards the DPRK (North Korea) and shirk the blame for having driven the inter-Korean relations to the worst crisis.” South Korea, which has already brought some of the wreck to the surface, has said the blast that sank the vessel was caused by an external explosion.

Investigators from several countries, including the United States, are trying to determine what caused the 1,200-tonne Cheonan to split in half and plunge some 45 meters. South Korea’s defense minister said this month it may have been hit by a torpedo, immediately thrusting

suspicion on the North. Local media has pinned the blame on North Korea in the absence of any other likely reasons, though official statements have been far more circumspect. Few expect the South, worried about hurting its own economy in the midst of recovery, to risk taking military action against the North if investigations show Pyongyang sank the ship.

It is a delicate time for President Lee Myung-bak, whose relatively high ratings in opinion polls have dipped slightly following the sinking. His defense minister and the military have come under some criticism for being slow over their handling of the issue. Lee wants a strong showing in the June elections to give him the political muscle he needs to push through more reforms, which have been floundering in an unruly parliament, even though it is dominated by his ruling party.

Relations between the two Koreas have been chilly since Lee took office early in 2008, ending years of generous aid which had helped prop up the North’s broken economy.

South Korea raised the stern of the ship on Friday and expects to bring the rest to the surface in the next few days, as it searches for clues to one if its deadliest naval disasters since the 1950-53 Korean War ended in a ceasefire.

The sinking could also complicate the resumption of stalled international talks on ending North Korea’s atomic arms program in return for aid to prop up its broken economy, experts said. — Reuters

Sunday, April 18, 2010

INTERNATIONAL

11

Burqa bombers slay 41 Attacks underscore grave threat posed by extremists PESHAWAR: Two suicide bombers dressed in burqas struck a crowd of displaced people collecting aid handouts, killing at least 41 and wounding more than 60 yesterday at a camp in northwest Pakistan. The bombers struck min-

KUNDUZ: Afghan President Hamid Karzai addresses local elders in Kunduz, Afghanistan. Karzai has urged Taleban insurgents to lay down their arms and air their grievances while visiting a violent northern province, adding that foreign forces would not leave the country as long as fighting continued. — AFP

Karzai appoints election chief KABUL: Afghan President Hamid Karzai yesterday appointed a new chief for the insurgency-hit nation’s election commission after top officials stepped down over fraud allegations, a spokesman said. Karzai has been under intense Western pressure to cut out rampant graft in the wake of presidential elections last year that were badly tainted by accusations of widespread irregularities.

“His Excellency Fazel Ahmad Manavi has been appointed as the chairman of the Independent Election Commission (IEC),” presidential spokesman Waheed Omar told reporters in Kabul. Manavi, an Islamic Sharia law professor, was working as a commissioner for the IEC before his appointment, according to Omar.

He has worked in various government posts since the 2001 toppling of the Taleban in a USled invasion.

The government announced earlier this month that the top two officials to oversee the fraud-tainted elections had left the commission.

The departures were announced after Washington pointedly declined to call Karzai an ally and hinted an invitation to the White House next month could be withdrawn if he repeated outbursts blaming the electoral fraud on foreigners. Azizullah Ludin and Daoud Ali Najafi were chairman and chief electoral officer

respectively of the government-appointed IEC, which was accused of meddling in the fraud and being stuffed with Karzai cronies.

A replacement for Najafi “will be appointed very soon,” Omar said, without giving an exact date. Omar also said yesterday that Karzai had appointed two “foreigners” to a separate election watchdog after earlier trying to ban nonAfghans from membership. The appointments were among five new members of the UNbacked Electoral Complaints Commission, which threw out more than half a million votes cast for Karzai in last year’s presidential election. The new ECC appointments included a South African elections expert, Johann Kriegler, and an Iraqi national named Mustafa Safwat, Omar said.

The other three new members are Afghans.

Karzai recently leveled a series of outbursts against the international community, claiming that foreign powers orchestrated the vote fraud.

The United States, which has tens of thousands of troops in Afghanistan to help Karzai’s government fight the Taleban, called the comments “troubling” and hinted that Karzai’s invitation to Washington could be withdrawn.

However, US officials have since softened their tone. Afghanistan is expected to hold its second post-Taleban parliamentary elections in September. — AFP

Iranian engineer brings roads, rail to Afghan west ARMALAK: The television in the corner of the port-a-cabin reception room where Ali Tavakoli Khomeini receives guests outside the Afghan city of Herat is tuned to Iran’s state 24-hour news channel. Large maps of Iran and Afghanistan adorn the walls, and a portrait of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei hangs alongside one of Afghan President Hamid Karzai.An Afghan cook arranges a spread of Persian cuisine.

While the United States will soon have 100,000 troops in Afghanistan waging war against the Taleban, Iran is quietly exerting influence on its neighbor in a subtler way: through bricks and mortar, railways and road. Tavakoli, an Iranian engineer, has built some 400 km of highway and railroad in western Afghanistan over the last six years, paving the ancient trade routes of the Silk Road. His firm is building a dam in rural Herat, and has just finished laying foundations for a railway that could one day link south and East Asia to the Middle East and Europe, reviving some of the most important ancient overland trade routes in the world.

It would reduce the cost of moving goods across the region to a fraction of that of highway transport, he said. “A man who builds a path will always be granted a place in heaven by God,” he says, recalling a proverb told to him 10 years ago

by Saparmurat Niyazov, the then president of Turkmenistan, where Tavakoli spent eight years building roads. “That’s all you want to do ... take a stone from somewhere and make a stepping-stone for someone, somewhere else.”

LINK TO TURKEY The project is still delayed. A final 58 km stretch to Herat province’s capital, Herat City, needs to be built by Afghanistan, according to the project’s terms, and has been held up. Tavakoli predicts it could take up to another 10 years for

the railroad to be completed, linking Herat to Iran’s northeastern city of Mashad and on to Turkey. Iran has spent millions of dollars on development and reconstruction projects in Afghanistan, although its role is limited somewhat

by US policy, which restricts Iranian companies’ involvement in US-backed development projects.

Tavakoli says he has not lost contracts because of the US rules and it is not an issue he gives much thought to. “I’m not a political man, I’m an engineer. I’m asked to put two and two together and come up with four,” Tavakoli said. He won the tender to build the railroad from the Iranian government, after it pledged some $500 million of money for reconstruction projects in Afghanistan at a donor’s conference in Japan in 2002.

Herat is one of Afghanistan’s safer provinces, but some districts have come under Taleban control over the past two to three years. Tavakoli says bureaucratic tardiness, rather than insecurity, presents the biggest challenge. Waiting for countersignatures on contracts means Tavakoli has had to foot the cost of projects himself. He has so far forked out $4.5 million in order to continue work on a highway at Armalak. The governor of Herat told him officials in Kabul are still waiting for Saudi Arabia to provide the funding, he says.

Each time he starts a new project in Afghanistan’s countryside, Tavakoli rebuilds a village of prefab offices and shipping containers at a cost of about $2 million to house his offices, technicians and construction workers. One of the biggest advantages of working in Afghanistan Tavakoli says is a cheap and work-hungry labor force. He employs 500 to 700 Afghan workers and credits himself with training skilled technicians.

“It’s the best thing I could do: teach someone how to build a bridge so that they can go off and do it themselves.” — Reuters

KADDAHAR: Afghan kids ride on a horse carriage in Kandahar city, south of Kabul yesterday.—AP

The attacks underscored the grave threat posed by extremists despite steppedup Pakistani offensives and a significant increase in US drone attacks targeting Taleban and Al-Qaedalinked commanders in the nearby tribal belt. “We have 41 dead in the twin suicide bombing. There are 64 injured,” local police chief Dilawar Khan Bangash said by telephone. He said the bombers walked into the crowd wearing burqas, the loose-fitting head-to-toe outfit that obscures the face and worn by conservative Muslim women in parts of northwest Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Body parts of the bombers were recovered and most of the victims were members of the Mani Khel and Baramad Khel tribes who had gathered for registration after fleeing fighting in their home district of Orakzai, he said.

Bangash said the first bomber detonated his explosives while displaced people gathered to register and receive relief items. A few minutes later the second bomber blew himself up in the middle of the gathering crowd.

Khalid Omarzai, the local chief of administration, also said 41 people died, including Azmat Ali Bangash, a journalist working for local TV channel Samaa.

Northwest Pakistan has suffered a major internal displacement of people as a result of Taleban violence and a series of military offensives concentrated on flushing out the armed Islamists from parts of the northwest and tribal belt.

The United Nations says 1.3 million people are currently displaced.

At least 210,000 people have been displaced from the tribal districts of Orakzai and Kurram, most of whom have registered in Kohat and Hangu towns.

Under US pressure, Pakistan has in the past year significantly increased operations against militants in its tribal belt, which became a stronghold for hundreds of extremists who fled Afghanistan after the 2001 US-led invasion. Yesterday army chief of staff General Ashfaq Kayani made a rare public apology over the “unfortunate” deaths of civilians during air strikes in Khyber, part of the tribal badlands, last Saturday.

Military officials initially said 42 militants were killed in a gunfight and two air strikes in the Tirah valley, but tribesmen later said up to 61 civilians were killed. A security official estimated that 15 civilians died.

One elder in the Khukikhel tribe accepted the apology but said those responsible should be punished. Northwest Pakistan suffers from chronic insecurity largely stemming from the semi-autonomous tribal belt, which Washington calls the most dangerous place on Earth and a global headquarters of Al-Qaeda.

A campaign of suicide and bomb attacks have killed more than 3,200 people in less than three years across the nuclear-armed country of 167 million, blamed on Al-Qaeda, Taleban and other extremist Islamist groups. On Friday, a suicide bomber blew himself up at the main hospital in the southwestern city of Quetta, killing 10 people, in what police said was a sectarian attack linked to the shooting of a Shiite banker.

Last year, 3.1 million people were displaced from their homes in northwest Pakistan. Nearly two million people have returned home, but uncertainty continues in the wake of ongoing clashes between troops and the Taleban. — AFP

utes apart in the Kacha Pukha camp on the outskirts of the garrison city of Kohat, a registration centre for people fleeing Taleban violence and Pakistani army operations close to the Afghan border.

PESHAWAR: Pakistani relatives push a stretcher carrying an injured, blood-covered blast victim at a hospital following a suicide bomb attack yesterday. — AFP

Ex-Tiger chief’s mother denied entry to India NEW DELHI: The ailing mother of Sri Lanka’s slain Tamil Tiger leader Velupillai Prabhakaran has been denied entry to India for medical treatment, the Press Trust of India reported yesterday.

Vallipuram Parvathi travelled from Malaysia to the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on Friday night, but was prevented from leaving the aircraft, the Indian news agency said, giving no details.

The pro-rebel Tamilnet website also reported the incident, saying she was “refused landing by Indian immigration officials.”

The wheelchair-bound Parvathi was to be admitted to a hospital in Chennai, capital of Tamil Nadu which shares close cultural links with Sri Lanka’s minority Tamils. Parvathi, who is believed to be in her early 80s, was seeking treatment

because she had suffered a stroke, a Tamil politician in Colombo said, asking not to be named. There was no immediate comment from Indian government officials.

Tamilnet reported that she had been sent back to Malaysia and that she had been denied landing by Indian immigration officials as she was considered “a threat to law and order in the state.”

Police stepped up security around Chennai airport to prevent any disturbances as a small group of Tamils including local politicians who were vocal supporters of Prabhakaran gathered outside, PTI reported.

Parvathi had left Sri Lanka for Malaysia after the death of her husband in military custody in January. The rebel leader’s parents had been living in India but returned to Sri Lanka soon after a

ceasefire between government troops and the Tigers in 2002 that ended after several years.

They were among thousands of civilians who fled the war zone in northeastern Sri Lanka early last year as government forces launched a final offensive against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eeelam (LTTE). Prabhakaran was killed by security forces on May 18 along with other top LTTE military commanders.

India outlawed the LTTE after former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was blown up in 1991 by a suicide bomber believed to have been a member. India says the Tamil Tigers assassinated Gandhi in retaliation for his decision to send troops into Sri Lanka in 1987 in a peacekeeping operation that ended up in all-out war with the rebels. — AFP

OPINION

12

Sunday, April 18, 2010

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issues

Nuclear terror fight to be Obama legacy

By Barry Schweid

L

ike his predecessors, US President Barack Obama is intent on leaving his mark on history, and he has chosen to do so by helping subdue the nuclear threat that bedevils the modern world. Pulsing with energy and confidence, the president has a penchant for diplomacy over confrontation, and it’s beginning to pay off.

Obama persuaded 46 world leaders to recognize nuclear terrorism as a major threat to global security and endorse his call to secure these weapons and nuclear materials within four years.

The summit last week convened shortly after the US and Russia took steps to reduce their nuclear arsenals with the first significant arms control treaty in a generation. Two years from now, progress will be measured at a follow-up summit in South Korea. Obama has not been content to warn of the threat of nuclear conflict, but seems determined to mobilize the global community to meet it.

“The key now is to hit the ground running in turning the summit words into real action on the ground in the weeks and months to come,” Matthew Bunn, of the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center, said in a

statement.

Then-President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev reached high as well. They agreed at a summit in Reykjavik, Iceland, in 1984 to eliminate all US and Soviet intercontinental ballistic missiles within 10 years. But the historic accord fell by the wayside when Reagan refused to give up his hopes for a US Strategic Defense Initiative, the “Star Wars” missile shield that Moscow feared would upset the decades-old East-West nuclear standoff.

Obama is not a one-issue president. He has made peace in the Middle East a goal, and run into a brick wall trying to persuade Israel to make difficult concessions.

Befitting the nuclear age, however, history will likely judge him on how he does in curbing terrorism and restraining countries such as North Korea and Iran from posing nuclear threats. North Korea is resisting diplomatic overtures while Iran appears to be slowly but surely moving toward producing its first nuclear weapon. Iran denies that is its goal. It insists the program seeks civilian energy. But Iran’s statements are met with disbelief, and if it keeps going, Obama could be presented with a security problem that has few equals. — AP

Sanctions threat to hurt Iran shipping

By Jonathan Saul

T

he threat of fresh sanctions on Iran will hurt shipping activity to and from the country while also hampering the Islamic Republic’s ability to export its crude oil. The United States is pushing for a fourth round of UN sanctions on Tehran over its refusal to halt sensitive atomic work the West suspects is aimed at making nuclear bombs, a charge Iran denies. Iran analyst Meir Javedanfar said international shipping flows were vital for the Iranian economy.

“Fresh sanctions could make the cost of imports go up which would push up inflation even further and this is the Achilles’ heel of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s economic policies. “The implications will be felt not just by the Iranian leadership but also by the Iranian people,” he added. Iran is the world’s fifth biggest crude oil exporter but previous US sanctions mean it has suffered from lack of investment in refineries, forcing the OPEC member to import some 40 percent of its gasoline needs.

US lawmakers are reviewing proposed legislation that would prevent companies who supply gasoline to Iran from doing business with the United States.

Shipping transactions are done in dollars and payments go through the United States.

“Shipping companies would have to be a lot more careful of where they send their ships,” Philip Roche, partner in the disputes and risk management team with law firm Norton Rose, said.

“Anybody doing business

with Iran would have to set up a separate structure which would have to avoid any business or connection with the US as otherwise it will fall foul of these laws.”

Roche said if the US legislation was passed it would make trading with Iran “risky”. “I can’t see very many Greek or Italian controlled ship owners doing that if they have business interests in the US,” he said.

Russia’s No. 2 oil company LUKOIL, Royal Dutch Shell and Malaysia’s Petronas have all announced stopping gasoline sales to Iran, joining two of the world’s largest independent trading companies, Glencore and Vitol, who have taken similar decisions.

“If you are a Chinese or Vietnamese ship owner that has little or nothing to do with the US, they are not going to really care as the US law will have little practical effect. That is why international sanctions agreed by the UN are required,” Roche said. Draft UN proposals include curtailing insurance and reinsurance of cargo shipments to and from Iran and authorising the inspection and seizure of suspicious cargo transported by Iranian shipping firms.

London’s marine insurance market last month added Iran to a list of areas deemed high risk.

Ships transiting the area have to notify underwriters of voyages up to 12 nautical miles off Iran’s coast. “On a contractual level, what we will see is more examples of Iran being on the list of countries, along with for instance, North Korea, that the tanker in question is not permitted to call at,” Norton Rose’s Roche said.— Reuters

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Israel fears US wants to impose peace

By Steven Gutkin

I

srael’s hardline government is deeply worried that the US will try to impose a Mideast peace deal, that the Palestinians might declare statehood unilaterally and that Washington could be moving to end tensions with Syria.

These fears underscore how the current differences between the US and Israel go far beyond a still unresolved diplomatic row over Israeli settlement building.

Instead, there is a deepening chasm between the visions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Barack Obama, raising questions about the strength of the US-Israeli alliance despite mutual pronouncements that the bond is unshakable. Netanyahu fears Israel could be forced into unwanted concessions and its enemies’ hands will be strengthened. His government is pushing to keep the focus firmly on threats from Hezbollah, Hamas and particularly - Iran and its disputed nuclear program. Obama, in contrast, is speaking about the promises of peace and has taken a new unusual step, publicly characterizing Israeli-Arab strife as harmful to US interests - which many interpreted as a prelude to taking action to push through a peace.

A forum of Israel’s top seven ministers met three times last week to try to find ways to warm the chilly relationship with the Obama administration, but failed to agree on any specific measures, such as stopping Jewish construction in east Jerusalem, officials said on condition of anonymity because the meetings were closed. Israeli officials have been phoning US congress members for help in repairing the ties that were damaged last month when Israel announced a massive new Jewish housing project in east Jerusalem during a visit by US Vice President Joe Biden. Palestinians hope to make that part of the city their future

capital.

Israel still has not given its response to a series of demands Obama reportedly made in a tense meeting with Netanyahu in Washington on March 23.

This has led to speculation that Netanyahu might be seeking to buy time in the hope that Obama would be less inclined to pressure Israel in the run-up to November’s US congressional elections, in which Jewish American support is key.

US frustration over the lack of progress on Mideast peace has led to a debate in the Obama administration over whether to propose an American peace plan that would clearly outline US expectations. Israeli officials fear that would mean heavy pressure on them to make territorial compromises they have so far resisted. “All those who support a forced solution are in fact making the solution much less probable,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon.

Israel has spent the past week trying to draw attention to the myriad threats it says it faces in the region. As the US prepared to reinstall an ambassador in the Syrian capital of Damascus, Israeli intelligence officials said this week they believe Syria was transferring deadly Scud missiles to Hezbollah guerrillas in Lebanon, a claim Syria denied. Hezbollah admits it has been massively arming since its 2006 war with Israel, yet the timing of the statements suggested they may have also reflected Israeli concerns about Obama’s Syria policy.

Also, during annual Holocaust commemorations, Netanyahu raised Europe’s failure to act early to stop the rise of Nazi Germany in order to push Israel’s demands for stronger action to stop Iran’s nuclear program. The US and its allies accuse Iran of seeking to build a nuclear weapon, and Israel says it would be under direct threat. In Washington, senior military and intelligence officials

warned that in about a year, Iran could amass enough nuclear material to build a bomb. Iran denies it has any intention to do so. The current US-Israeli friction might be an unavoidable outcome of having a liberal administration in Washington and a right-wing government in Israel. But with Israel’s interna-

tional image in tatters following its bruising offensive against Hamas militants in Gaza last year - and with the US badly in need of Muslim support to accomplish its goals in Afghanistan and Iraq - patience for Israel’s 43-year-old occupation of the Palestinians is wearing thin.

Driven by similar frustrations,

Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad has floated the idea of unilaterally declaring statehood as early as next year - a proposal that led Israel’s foreign minister to threaten to annul past peace agreements and even annex parts of the West Bank. The US-Israel tensions also reflect a fair amount of irony. — AP

A terrorist by any other name

By Jon Pahl

W

hen is a terrorist not considered a terrorist? When the US media identifies him or her as a “Christian”. And when is a terrorist group not considered a terrorist group? When the US media calls it an “anti-government militia”. Exceptionalism is alive and well when it comes to reporting on violence in the name of religion, as evidenced in the recent case of the Michigan-based Hutaree, a group that the media has labelled a militia following recent FBI raids that uncovered stockpiles of illegal weapons, and a plot to kill law enforcement officers and “levy war” against the United States. The leader of the group, 45year-old David Brian Stone, pulled no punches about who he was, coining the term “Hutaree” which his website translates as “Christian warrior” for his group. His motto is the biblical passage John 15:13: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.”

The behaviour of this group seems very similar to that of those termed terrorists by the media. Yet Joshua Rhett Miller of Fox News described the Hutaree in a 29 March story as a “purportedly Christian-based militia group.” In a similar vein, Nick Bunkley and Charlie Savage of The New York Times identified Stone and the Hutaree somewhat apologetically as “apocalyptic Christian militants” in their 29 March report.

This, despite the fact that the group not only stockpiled weapons and engaged in training identical to Al-Qaeda’s modus operandi, but even planned improvised explosive devices based on those used by terrorists in Iraq.

In its “Times Topics” section, The New York Times positively contorts itself to avoid using the word “terrorist”. It describes the Hutaree as a “Michigan-based Christian militia group” and, mirroring the language of US Attorney General

Eric Holder, as “anti-government extremists.”

Are we reserving the term “terrorist” only for Muslims these days? In coverage of stories like the thwarted plan to bomb synagogues in New York in May 2009 or Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab’s attempt to blow up a plane over Detroit, the mainstream media has no qualms about discussing “foiled terror plots.” Such a reservation stokes indiscriminate fear of Muslim “others”.

It also constructs an implicit “us versus them” dualism between a broadly “Christian America” and an allegedly monolithic “Muslim world”, as American political scientist Samuel Huntington most notoriously opined in his “Clash of Civilisations” theory. Religion is all too often seen as the root of terrorist violence, rather than as one of its most effective tools. As Scott Shane argued in the 4 April New York Times article “Dropping the word bomb”, we need a robust debate about what terms to use across cases. Journalists can help by practicing consistency, and by pointing out attempts to scapegoat one group and exempt another from the opprobrium associated with terms like “terrorist.”

Mainstream Christians like me cringe when a group like the Hutaree is identified as “Christian”. Perhaps this incident can help other Americans empathise with what close to 1.5 billion Muslims might have felt every time in the last few years they have heard the words “Muslim terrorists” or, far worse, “Islamic terrorists”. A good rule to follow, for journalists and for all of us, might be to treat others as we would like to be treated ourselves. And that means calling a terrorist - of whatever background - exactly that.

NOTE: Jon Pahl is Professor of History of Christianity in North America at The Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, and author of Empire of Sacrifice: The Religious Origins of American Violence — CGNews

West will have to engage Bashir after poll

By Andrew Heavens

T

he likely election win of Sudan’s president will enrage many disgusted with his Darfur record, but the West will have to find ways to engage with him in the build-up to an even more dangerous vote. Sudan is less than eight months away from a referendum giving the people of its south the choice whether to split off as an independent country, guaranteed under a 2005 peace deal that ended two decades of north-south civil war.

Most analysts agree embittered southerners want to leave. Sudan president Omar Hassan Al-Bashir, almost certain to win the vote after most of his rivals boycotted the ballot accusing him of fraud, wants the oil-producing region to stay. The next months of internationally backed talks will decide whether Sudan ends up with a peaceful separation or a botched referendum and another confrontation that could dwarf Darfur. “These elections could be as bad as Afghanistan but with such a tight timetable before the referendum I doubt anyone will insist on a rerun,” said one international source.

Many activists have already begun calling on Western powers to distance themselves from the elections, writing them off as a rigged campaign designed to vindicate a coup leader wanted by

the International Criminal Court to face charges over war crimes allegedly committed in Darfur. “The United States will have to play the leader (in saying) that this is not a legitimate election,” said Mark Lotwis, acting head of campaign group Save Darfur.

Up to now, Washington has echoed

some of the concerns about the polls, but shown no sign of turning its back on Bashir and his dominant northern National Congress Party (NCP). US Sudan envoy Scott Gration flew to Khartoum for exhaustive rounds of mediation when the boycotts began.

“We look at this election as part of an

Sudan’s President and presidential candidate Omar AlBashir arrives at a mosque for Friday prayers in Khartoum April 16, 2010. – AP

extremely important strategic process.

The Carter Centre is working very closely with the United States government, with Scott Gration,” former US President Jimmy Carter told Reuters in an interview as he led a team of observers in Khartoum last week.

“There are some groups that want the election to succeed and I represent one of those groups.” There is a lot of work for international mediators to do in the months before the referendum, as long as they stay engaged. Bashir has promised to accept the south’s decision if it chooses to secede. But that does not mean there is a done deal. His government has shown an often astounding ability to release conflicting signals, frustrating any search for a fixed policy.

On Tuesday this week, the conciliatory face of the NCP, presidential advisor Ghazi Salaheddin, told foreign journalists his party was prepared to offer government positions to opposition groups after the elections. Tensions dipped. A day later, in a classic good cop/bad cop routine, the confrontational face of the NCP, presidential assistant Nafie Ali Nafie, called in the same reporters to accuse the same opposition groups of plotting a “popular revolution” against the government.

Tensions spiked.

There are also many agreements to be made before the referendum can

take place, any of which could be used to delay the vote, an unacceptable outcome for the south. Sticking points include the position of the north-south border, the sharing out of oil reserves and Nile river water, the apportioning of external debts and the membership of a commission to organise the plebiscite. Bashir will hold up his election win as a vindication of his rule and a rebuke to the International Criminal Court, particularly if he can show support in the three Darfur states.

For many, the elections are a matter of real regret. “The immediate costs are opportunities lost - for a renewed internal process, for using the elections to assist moving Darfur out of conflict, for building trust,” said Stephen Morrison from Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Bashir’s critics will have to take comfort in the fact that the election win actually gives him no extra legal immunity against the ICC case.

There has also been some opening up of civil liberties in the build-up to the voting - newspaper censorship was lifted, opposition groups made critical statements on television and activists were given some limited freedom on the streets. “We need to get through this election and ... see whether this regime cracks down again,” said Save Darfur’s Lotwis. — Reuters

ANALYSIS

Sunday, April 18, 2010

13

BRICs take baby steps toward greater global clout

By Stuart Grudgings

T

he world’s leading emerging powers found little new to agree on in their summit in Brazil, but their assertive tone in demanding more clout in global financial institutions and setting of a deadline for the reforms shows they are slowly becoming a more potent group. In a joint statement at the end of their second summit, the so-called BRIC nations of Brazil, Russia, India and China called for swift reforms of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund to give a greater say to developing nations.

The call itself was not new from a group that was born out of the global financial crisis with a shared goal of shifting the balance of decision making from advanced economies. But the timing of the united front before this month’s G20 finance ministers and IMF meetings in Washington and a November deadline for the reforms to be completed showed a growing confidence and cohesiveness, analysts and diplomats said.

“Naming times and dates are a way to put on greater pressure and also a possible way for the BRICs to declare a victory by

Russia’s President Dmitry Medvedev, Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, China’s President Hu Jintao and India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh pose for a group picture in Brasilia on April 15, 2010. — AP saying that because of this pressure we were able to get things done,” said Michael Glosny, a China scholar at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology who follows the BRICs. Huge differences in national goals and tensions in

security and economic policy have prevented the BRICs, which account for about 20 percent of global economic output, from agreeing concrete cooperation in most areas.

They have rowed back from talk last year of setting up a new

reserve currency to rival the US dollar and have made no headway on forming joint institutions. Vague statements from leaders on the group’s goals have reinforced a view that the BRICS, dominated by China in terms of its economic size and

influence, have little in common beyond being large and developing.

Yet the group does have shared interests in dealing with economic inequality, food and energy security. On their central goal of gaining more say in how the global economy is run, they have achieved a more united front that is putting pressure on advanced countries to concede more voting power, more quickly in the IMF and World Bank. “I think the feeling is that this is a much more aggressive statement of what has come before,” said a Western diplomat in Brasilia, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Brazil, which had appeared to be satisfied with a 5 percent voting shift to developing countries, now looks poised to hold out with the other BRICs for a bigger change. “We’re not satisfied with the pace of reforms,” Brazil’s Foreign Minister Celso Amorim told Reuters.

The G20 group of major advanced and developing economies has agreed to support a quota shift of at least 5 percent toward developing countries, but other emerging economy groups are pushing for 7 percent. “The IMF and the World Bank urgently need to

address their legitimacy deficits,” said the BRICs’ joint statement, calling for quota reforms to be completed by the November G20 summit in South Korea.

The lack of bold new agreements in other areas does not necessarily mean the young group is not making progress in strengthening ties and building mutual confidence behind the scenes, said Anthony Spanakos, a Brazil scholar at New Jersey’s Montclair State University.

“Much of what is happening is consultation and norm-building, but the symbolism of joint action and leadership that is independent of the U.S. and Europe is important as well,” he said.

The BRICs called on the G20 to be more active in coming up with a strategy for the post-crisis world and said it wanted to play a role in the process.

Beyond that, however, there was little detail given on the BRICs’ vision for the new global financial order. “Playing a larger role and having greater influence is more than just increasing representation and voting shares,” said Glosny. “From the statement ... it’s not clear what they want that role to be or how they would want to wield that influence.” — Reuters

Brazil Amazon dam creates headache for Lula

By Brian Ellsworth

B

razil’s plan to build the world’s third-largest hydroelectric dam in the Amazon is drawing scathing criticism from a rare combination of investors and environmentalists, creating a potential political headache for President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva.

Lula vigorously insists the Belo Monte dam, which may cost as much as $17 billion, will bring jobs to poor communities in the Amazon rain forest and ensure electricity supplies for one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

But activists and indigenous groups, including Hollywood director James Cameron, say the dam will destroy parts of the Amazon and displace up to 20,000 people, while financial analysts call the project a politically driven money-loser. A Brazilian court on Wednesday delayed an auction to build the dam on the grounds that it may violate environmental law, slowing the flagship project of an $878 billion public works crusade that is a key campaign platform of Lula’s anointed successor, Dilma Rousseff, for this year’s presidential vote.

“These big investment projects like Belo Monte have major design flaws and major management flaws,” said Luiz Vellozo Lucas, an opposition legislator. “There is no way this project can work, and that’s going to have a political cost. Lula has staked significant political capital on the 11,000-megawatt project. By 2014, the dam should begin generating as much as 6 percent of the electricity Brazil consumes, which the government estimates will soar 48 percent by 2018.

Supporters argue the dam is crucial to ensuring power for Brazilians from thriving automakers to homeowners, including low-income families that are quickly joining the ranks of the middle class. “It is a project that generates very clean competitive energy, without even taking into account the environmental benefits of renewable energy that does not emit carbon dioxide,” Mauricio Tolmasquim, head of a gov-

ernment energy think-tank, said in an interview with local media.

Last week, Brazilian construction giants Camargo Correa and Odebrecht walked away from the bidding process to build the dam, citing low returns, and left the government scrambling to bring in more companies. The April 20 auction, meant to create competition between companies to offer the lowest price for power generated by the dam, was delayed by Wednesday’s court decision. The government is expected to appeal.

Oscar-winning director Cameron, who has compared the construction of Belo Monte to his environmentally tinged sci-fi thriller “Avatar,” has become the most high-profile critic of the project. Cameron, donning an indigenous headdress and streaks of red paint on his face, in recent days joined local indigenous leaders in a ceremony in the Amazon town of Altamira, near the proposed dam site.

Originally conceived some 30 years ago, progress on Belo Monte has been slowed over the years by protests, including an incident last year in which Kayapo Indians armed with clubs and machetes attacked a state electricity official.

“The dam will have a terrible social and ecological impact,” said Lucio Flavio Pinto, an environmental activist who lives in the Amazon city of Belem.

“But the worst part is it’s a white elephant, it’s not economically viable.”

During the dry season, the water flow will fall so much that the dam will generate less than 10 percent of capacity. Still, supporters say it will help balance power generation because dams in southern Brazil have lower output just as Belo Monte would be generating at full steam. Ricardo Correa, a power sector analyst with the brokerage Ativa Corretora in Rio de Janeiro, said the possibility for work stoppages caused by protests or environmental lawsuits has made the project exceedingly risky.

Investors have been turned off by a ceiling on the amount the dam could

charge for power along with high construction costs - which vary by more than 50 percent between government

and private company estimates. “This is a project with risks that are enormous and returns that are very low - and pos-

sibly negative,” Correa said. “It not a project that creates value, it’s a project that destroys value.” — Reuters

Obama addresses space critics

By Anne K Walters

T

he death of manned spaceflight, the loss of thousands of jobs, the end of US dominance in space - such is the criticism launched at President Barack Obama over his revamping of US space exploration, including axing plans to return to the moon. Obama has been a big target for space enthusiasts who are worried about his reforms, but on Thursday Obama fought back, defending his decision to abandon going the moon as a precursor for reaching Mars.

“I understand that some believe that we should attempt a return to the surface of the moon first, as previously planned.

But I just have to say pretty bluntly here: We’ve been there before,” he said. Obama revealed his plans to sharply alter the US space program when he rolled out the budget for 2011, and was met by stiff resistance from congressional lawmakers who feared the leading US role in space was being compromised.

Part of his agenda would scrap predecessor George W Bush’s plan for a next-generation spacecraft program, known as Constellation, to return astronauts to the moon and eventually travel to Mars and beyond. That program was behind schedule and over budget, and officials argued it would never achieve its goals with current funding levels.

Obama instead believes a better option is to have commercial vendors compete for contracts to provide a so-called “space taxi” for ferrying astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS). To dampen criticism, he said Thursday he will keep some aspects of Constellation alive and insisted the changes were intended to reinvigorate America’s role in space. Obama for the first time defended his plans during a major address at the Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The speech was billed by the White House as an outline of his “bold approach for space exploration and discovery”.

For months Obama has endured criticism from lawmakers questioning the wisdom of scrubbing Constellation as the space shuttle fleet is being retired, arguing it could leave thousands more workers unemployed. From a strategic perspective, they say it opens the door for emerging powers like China and India to challenges US dominance in space and leaves Washington reliant on the Russians for years until the commercial space vehicles are on line.

Former NASA administrator Michael Griffin and a host of prominent former astronauts, such as Apollo 13’s Jim Lovell, sent an open letter to Obama this week urging him to recon-

sider his budget plans and the fate of Constellation. “Too many men and women have worked too hard and sacrificed too much to achieve America’s pre-eminence in space only to see that effort needlessly thrown away,” they wrote, pointing to a loss of jobs and lack of vision that they contend will cede US dominance to other countries.

“We urge you to demonstrate the vision and determination necessary to keep our nation at the forefront of human space exploration with ambitious goals and the proper resources to see them through. This is not the time to abandon the promise of the space frontier for a lack of will or an unwillingness to pay the price.”

Obama insisted Thursday he is “100 per cent committed to the mission of NASA and its future” in remarks designed to alleviate concerns within the agency about his commitment. He highlighted plans to increase the budget ever as he steers NASA in a different direction. Under his new plans, astronauts will be sent into deep space by 2025 - reaching an asteroid or other distant object - after first conducting a series of test missions early in the next decade. “A landing on Mars will follow and I expect to be around to see it,” he said, vowing humans could touch the surface of the Red Planet by the mid-2030s.

Some lawmakers welcomed Obama’s new vision of refocusing the space mission on innovation and new technology.

“I commend President Obama for strengthening and clarifying his vision for NASA,” Senator Jay Rockefeller said. “I am pleased the president’s plan retains its focus on innovation, research and technology development - the drivers of our economy.”

Obama said the use of commercial vehicles will free up the space agency to focus on long-term goals such as reaching Mars and other endeavours. Instead of completely killing Constellation, he announced the capsule portion of the program will be retooled as an emergency escape vehicle for the ISS. Commercial firms have pointed to their long history of working with NASA to develop new technology and said they could get US astronauts to the ISS more affordably than it currently costs to book a ride on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft. “For the first time since Apollo, our country will have a plan for space exploration that inspires and excites all who look to the stars. Even more important, it will work,” said Elon Musk, chief executive of Space X, one of six companies NASA has already tapped to begin working on a commercial crew vehicle. - dpa

Stoic Greeks believe in Papandreou, for now

By Renee Maltezou and Dina Kyriakidou

A

thens florist Lila Mastora says austerity measures have nearly wiped out her business and blames politicians for a debt crisis whose only remedy may be an international bailout. “Yesterday we only made 10 euros. We haven’t paid the rent in two months,” said Mastora, 48, as she arranged a funeral wreath at her shop near the Greek parliament. “Who is going to buy flowers in such hard times? Average people shouldn’t pay for this crisis. It’s the politicians’ fault.”

As Prime Minister George Papandreou prepares Greece to swallow the bitter pill of EU/IMF international aid and avoid bankruptcy, polls show a stoic public has faith in him, if not his policies during 6 months in power. An opinion poll on Friday showed two thirds of Greeks are dissatisfied with his socialist government’s performance but his own approval rating actually improved slightly to 68 percent.

Papandreou has cut public salaries, hiked taxes and frozen pensions. He is trying to impose tough measures to cut budget deficits and convince that the measures are just. The public appeared to be giving him more time but not for long. About 66

percent of those asked in the Public Issue poll believed social unrest will mount in the coming months. “I don’t believe things will get better. I am not prepared to make more sacrifices because I don’t think these measures or any future cuts will get us out of the crisis,” said office clerk

Anastasia Griva, 49. “This is not our fault. The rich, the politicians, the tax evaders must pay.”

Analysts say voters are willing to give the government time but, come autumn, they will demand visible results to show that their sacrifices are paying off or take to the streets. Polls show

the public blames decades of political corruption for cronies for the country’s ills. Many in the private sector say they resent paying taxes to spoiled civil servants. Nearly one in five Greeks work in the public sector. “I just went to a ministry and only two out of six employees were actu-

Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou (left) meets Cypriot President Demetris Christofias in Nicosia on April 12, 2010. – AFP

ally working,” said Elena Plexida, 51, a court clerk on lunch break. “They have to fire them because they don’t work.”

The government has said it wants to discuss the terms of a Ä40-45 billion EU/IMF package, stopping short of activating the mechanism agreed by euro zone partners. In a country where the word “spread” - the premium Greece has to pay over Germany to borrow - is heard in cafes and taxis from non-English speakers and regularly makes the front page, debt costs hang like a Damoclean sword over average people. During the first recession in 16 years, unemployment hit a five-year record high of 10.3 percent in the last quarter of 2009 and is not expected to peak any time soon.

Many say there is no option but to seek outside help.

“Unfortunately the country is not experiencing the happiest of days,” wrote columnist Antonis Karakousis in the daily To Vima.

“To be honest, within days we will be under international monitoring and tutelage.” Investors have pounded Greek markets amid concerns over the country’s solvency. Greece carries a 300 billion euro debt load and borrowing costs have risen to euro era record levels.

Most Greek opposition parties oppose the aid package, say-

ing the tough conditions that come with it will hurt the poor, and unions have announced strikes. But economists and industrialists have asked the government to bite the bullet.

“The most realistic choice is to ask the activate the mechanism immediately,” said Dimitris Daskalopoulos, president of the industries association SEB. “There is no point in negotiating ... a time table of implementing reforms that we should have done ourselves years ago.”

The socialists came to power in October to reveal the defeated conservatives had grossly underreported the budget deficit, launching a fiscal crisis that has reverberated across international markets. “Who’s fault is this?” said central Athens garbage collector Panagiotis Fasoulas, 56, while piling bags on his truck.

“Politicians and their governments took our money.”

The conservative opposition is still reeling from its defeat, the price of a string of scandals and destructive riots that froze Greece for weeks, and a leadership change has not appeased a bitter public. “I usually vote for the right but let’s support Papandreou so he can get us out of the crisis,” Fasoulas said.

“My salary was cut, I can barely make ends meet but I will be patient.” — Reuters

focus

The secretive world of Oprah Winfrey

By Ed Pilkington

G

iven that she is one of the world’s most celebrated women, with a multibillion-dollar media empire centred around her own personality, there have been strikingly few books about Oprah Winfrey. Among the many volumes dedicated to the O factor, most are published by Winfrey herself, some are children’s books and the rest are hagiographies (The Gospel According to Oprah, for example) or collections of her own quotations.

Winfrey plays a central role in the US media, with her own TV studios, magazine, and the hugely influential Oprah’s Book Club, which perhaps goes some way to explaining the reluctance of the publishing industry to tell the intriguing story of her rise to power.

But what is it about Winfrey?

How has she managed to discourage journalists and publishers from taking her on as a legitimate subject of investigation, and how did she successfully floor Kitty Kelley, reputedly the world’s most tenacious biographer?

Robert Feder, a media blogger who until two years ago was the TV columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times, cites the cases of two Chicago journalists who put forward solid, wellresearched proposals for Winfrey books, yet could not find a publisher willing to touch them. “They were not proposing rip jobs of Oprah, they were relatively favourable to her. And yet the publishing houses were so fearful of her they would not take the risk,” he said.

Last week that publishing silence was broken with the arrival on the bookshelves of Oprah: a Biography. It is the latest from Kelley, the poison-pen writer whose previous subjects have included Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Nancy Reagan and the British royals. In the past, she has uncovered details of John F Kennedy’s sexual trysts and George W Bush’s cocaine consumption. Her aim in this new Winfrey book, she says, is to debunk the mystique of this global public figure, to separate “fact from myth”.

Only this time, it seems, she has failed. By general critical consensus, she hasn’t been able to find Winfrey’s Achilles heel. The book contains few revelations. Kelley says she was told by a Winfrey cousin the identity of the star’s biological father, though declines to name him; she exposes a penchant for sour-cream potatoes, Ding Dong cakes, and fried chicken. So far, so underwhelming.

Kelley also revealed on ABC television last week that her own publisher, Crown, had shown signs of anxiety about the biography.

She also alleged that several TV hosts, from Barbara Walters to Larry King and David Letterman, had shunned her from their shows because of their personal ties with her subject.

By her own admission, Kelley bumped up against a daunting wall of silence that protects Winfrey from the prying eyes of journalists.

Though she claims to have conducted more than 800 interviews, almost a third of the people Kelley approached refused to speak to her. In a foreword to the book, Kelley says she encountered a “kind of fear” instilled in Winfrey’s friends and employees that deterred them from co-operating freely.

Observers who followed the rise of Winfrey as a television sensation in Chicago saw a tendency towards privacy develop into an entire business philosophy. Feder recalls that at the start Winfrey was accessible and open to the media. Before

the start of each TV season, he would meet her to chat about her plans for the year and gossip about the competition. She’d send him Christmas cards and they would speak often on the phone.

In 1994 Feder wrote a piece for his paper disclosing that Winfrey was being sued by her former publicist over her employment practises. Overnight, their relationship changed. “Almost immediately I felt myself being shut out. My access stopped,” he says. “She wanted tighter control over her image and message, and she began shutting everything down. Our access began to disappear.” He never got another Christmas card.

When The Oprah Winfrey Show went nationwide in 1986, the incentive to contain and manage her self-image grew. It was not just that Winfrey was amassing a media empire one valued at $2.4 billion this year - it was that she was turning herself into a brand. Oprah Winfrey was the business, and the business was her. In a revealing comment to Fortune magazine in 2002, she said: “If I lost control of the business I’d lose myself - or at least the ability to be myself.

Owning myself is a way to be myself.”

Own herself is precisely what she did. In 1988 she set up her own TV studio, Harpo - Oprah backwards where she recorded her show, followed by a film studio in which she made TV movies. Ten years later she set up Oprah.com, and two years after that she launched O magazine. She secured so many outlets through which she could stream her own perfectly honed story that she no longer needed to deal with mediators such as journalists and authors who might see her in a different light.

“She has been exceptionally successful at controlling her own image,” says Janice Peck, media professor and author of The Age of Oprah.

“She has repeated her own story over and over, and nobody can gain enough access to check the truth of what she says.”

At the centre of Winfrey’s castle of secrecy is a legal requirement that she imposes on anyone who works for her: a confidentiality agreement never to reveal anything about her.

Every member of the 500 or so Harpo staff has to sign one, as well as those on the fringes - according to Kelley, that includes caterers, florists, upholsterers, plumbers, and the vets who treat her dogs. The legal restraint lasts for life.

Lawyers say such agreements are as commonly used by celebrities in the US to clamp down on media intrusion as libel laws are in the UK, though Winfrey has made it into an art form.

“The question you have to ask is whether this deprives people of their freedom of speech. Some would say that such blanket use of confidentiality agreements should not be allowed,” said Andrew Celli, a New Yorkbased first amendment lawyer. Elizabeth Coady, a former Harpo producer, tried in 1998 to write a book about her time in the company and was stopped by the courts, which ruled that her hands were tied by the agreement she signed. That sent a chill over the publishing world that is still felt today. Winfrey says she is merely protecting herself from incessant snooping.

But observers such as Feder suspect she has sacrificed something in the process. “I feel very sad about it,” he says. “She has lost a good deal of the common touch that ironically helped bring her to the position she holds today.” — Guardian

NEWS

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

Uganda crowns ‘youngest royal’ FORT PORTAL, Uganda: The “world’s youngest king” assumed his official duties with an apparent air of reluctance yesterday in a quiet town at the foot of Uganda’s Rwenzori mountains. Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, 18, was crowned as head of the Kingdom of Toro in a traditional ceremony in his hilltop palace overlooking his capital of Fort Portal. Draped in a long embroidered gown of blue and gold, the tall, lean Oyo hardly smiled through much of the ceremony, often staring straight down at the floor.

His symbolic authority covers the area known as the Mountains of the Moon straddling the borders of Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo. The young king had officially succeeded to the throne at the age of three when his father died of a heart attack in 1995, but coronation takes place only upon reaching adulthood. His onlooking subjects struggled to express what they expected of their new monarch. “There was a time the king had administrative power, going right down to the local chiefs. This place was very organised”, said John Mugisha, a member of the Butooro clan.

Mugisha, a clarinet player in the police band performing at the coronation, said he regretted the decline of the historic monarchy under the colonial and post-independence governments. But he

was not entirely convinced he wanted the king’s former privileges restored.

“The colonialists spoiled our heritage, although they also brought us some good things. For example, in the time of kings education was not there so much. Also healthcare. Things could even be better now”, he said.

The challenge facing the Toro kingdom, which has been stripped of all its governmental duties and is required by law to behave strictly as a “cultural institution”, is embodied within Oyo himself. At one point, the master of ceremonies joked about how rare it is to see the teenage king smile. “He’s a very friendly but very reserved young man. I don’t know how he copes with the pressure”, said Evah Baguma, a 50-year-old family friend who lives and works in London but flew in for the coronation. “I have seen him in the palace, and sometimes I feel bad for him. All that protocol. Rules on how to behave”.

Those who know Oyo suggested to AFP that he is far more comfortable when he is not surrounded by animal skin wearing, spear wielding tribal chiefs from across Africa. “He’s a teenager! He loves Arsenal!” proclaimed Princess Dorothy Kagoro, when asked to describe the king’s nature. During a ritual characterized by kingdom officials as the most important part of the coronation, clan

leaders lined up to present Oyo with a range of traditional gifts.

Flanked by ornately dressed tribal leaders, and Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni seated to his immediate right, Oyo looked distinctly uncomfortable as he graced each spear with a quick touch and banged each drum the customary nine times. Despite Oyo’s apparent ambivalence regarding his official duties and the anachronism of a Jay-Z loving, Arsenal-supporting 18-year-old-king banging drums and blessing spears, no one interviewed yesterday dismissed the importance of his job, or the role of his kingdom in moder n Uganda.

Baguma, who has lived abroad for more than 20 years, is chairman of the 400member Butooro Association of London.

“We are so connected to the kingdom”, she said.

Similarly, for Sean Kabega, who said he grew up in Germany and Britain after his parents fled the br utality of Idi Amin’s reign in the 1970s, it was to the Toro region, not Uganda, to which his family felt most attached. He said he returned from exile four years ago to work in the capital Kampala where the kingdom has almost no impact of his daily life. Oyo’s coronation was, nevertheless, a massively important event. “It’s important that we don’t forget all our culture”, he said. — AFP

Traffic at Kuwait International Airport later went to normal after arrivals and departures were halted from 7:30 am to 8:15 am, the airport’s Director of Operations Essam Al-Zamel told KUNA. All incoming planes were diverted to Saudi Arabia’s Dammam International

Airport. He said that two Kuwait Airways flights from Dubai and Dhaka were diverted to Dammam, but were later rescheduled to arrive in Kuwait.

The darkness dissipated almost as soon as it arrived, and the sun was shining bright by afternoon.

Day turns to night Continued from Page 1 He said the weather will start improving gradually tonight and tomorrow, but dust storms may linger until Tuesday. He cautioned that these sarrayat winds pose a danger to fishermen.

Tehran hits out at nuke ‘bullies’

Volcano spews more ash, air chaos widens Continued from Page 1 An expansive cloud of grit hovered over parts of western Europe yesterday, triggering extended flight bans that stranded people around the globe. HH the Amir Of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah called for facilitating all possible measures to secure a safe return home of Kuwaiti nationals stranded abroad. Acting Minister of Amiri Diwan Affairs Sheikh Ali Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah said in a statement that the official authorities and Kuwaiti embassies abroad have been informed of HH the Amir’s orders to follow up issues and conditions of all citizens abroad and those who could not return home. Sheikh AlJarrah said that HH the Amir has ordered that assistance must be given to all Kuwaiti nationals, especially those who were receiving treatment abroad, and to grant extension of medical periods for those who are in need till circumstances get better.

Forecasters said light prevailing winds in Europe - and large amounts of unmelted glacial ice above the volcano - mean that the situation is unlikely to change in the coming days.

“Currently the UK and much of Europe is under the influence of high pressure, which means winds are relatively light and the dispersal of the cloud is slow,” said Graeme Leitch, a meteorologist at Britain’s National Weather Service. “We don’t expect a great deal of change over the next few days.”

Matthew Roberts, at the Icelandic Meteorological Office, said only about a third of the total quantity of glacial ice in the crater has melted. “There could be days’ worth of water and ice mixed with the eruptive products,” he told the BBC. The ash plume was rising to about 9,144 m with intensifying volcanic activity, Leitch said.

It is possible for planes to fly over the ash cloud, he said, although it is up to individual countries to decide whether they should open higher airspace. Aviation experts say the volcanic plume has caused the worst travel disruption Europe - and the world - has ever seen, except during wars. “I’ve been flying for 40 years, but I’ve never seen anything like this in Europe,” said Swedish pilot Axel Alegren, after landing his flight from Kabul, Afghanistan, at Munich Airport; he had been due to land at Frankfurt but was diverted.

Anxious passengers have told stories of missed weddings, graduations, school and holidays because of the ominous plume, and some world leaders canceled plans to attend today’s state funeral for Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria in the southern city of Krakow. US President Barack Obama, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and German Chancellor Angela Merkel still planned to attend. Slovenian President Danilo Turk will travel to Poland by car. Most of

FORT PORTAL, Uganda: Uganda’s King of the Tooro Kingdom, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, is seen during his 18th birthday in the royal palace yesterday as he assumes the full duties of King of the Toros. At left is Uganda’s president Yoweri Museveni. —AP

northern and central Europe’s airspace has been shut down, affecting airports from New Zealand to San Francisco.

Yesterday, the French prime minister extended the closure of airspace in northern France until Monday morning. British airspace is closed until at least 0600 GMT today, and forecasters said the ash cloud would progressively cover the whole of the UK. British Airways is canceling all flights to and from the UK today. Authorities in the UK and Iceland told people with respiratory problems to stay indoors, and the World Health Organization said Europeans should not go outdoors if ash starts settling.

Stranded passengers reported the delays were causing financial hardships. Some had to check out of hotels and sleep in the airports. “I have been staying in a hotel but have now checked out and do not know what I am going to do - I have limited financial resources here,” said Anthony Adeayo, 45, who was due to travel from Britain to Nigeria with British Airways.

Others, desperate to return home or get to meetings, rushed to book a ride on ferries, in rental cars or taxis. Hundreds of weary British travelers were forced to queue up in France for ferry tickets, and P&O Ferries said it was inundated by thousands of calls from stranded air passengers. Ferry crossings between Britain and Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands were also fully booked, while a Virgin Holidays Cruises phone operator said dozens of people have called in to ask about trans-Atlantic crossings to New York aboard the Queen Mary 2 cruiser. A British taxi firm said it pocketed a fortune from driving a group of clients hundreds of miles to Switzerland.

International trains on the continent beefed up services, and the Eurostar was running eight supplementary trains today.

Shoppers were warned yesterday that continued flight bans could spark shortages of imported fresh fruit and vegetables. “There are no shortages yet, but we may start to see certain ranges affected if this carries on,” said Christopher Snelling, head of global supply chain policy for the Freight Transport Association. The Belgian and Swiss governments extended their ban until yeterday evening. Italian aviation authorities were closing airspace in northern Italy on yesterday until 1800 GMT. Spain’s Iberia airline is canceling most of its European flights until further notice. In the Nordics, air space in the central and southern parts of the region was expected to remain closed at least until today afternoon.

At least 45 flights between Europe and Asia were canceled yesterday. Australia’s Qantas canceled all flights to Europe, and passengers were being offered refunds or seats on the next available flight. The airline said it

was not known when flights would resume.

Cathay Pacific was already canceling some Europe-bound flights leaving Hong Kong today. “The British Airways telephone message says check the website for updates, but when you check the site it says call the customer services number,” said James Kirkman, 41, who was visiting family in Australia with his two children. “There’s no information. The kids were due back at school on Monday.”

Sajjan Gohel, a security expert with the Asia-Pacific Foundation think tank, was trying to make his way back to Britain from a conference in Bosnia. Having driven 710 km in a rental car across Croatia, Slovenia and Austria, he had reached Munich, only to find German airspace closed. Airline switchboards were jammed, his phone battery was running low and he had forgotten to bring the charger.

“The whole thing is kind of crazy,” he said.

Southern Iceland’s Eyjafjallajokull volcano began erupting for the second time in a month on Wednesday, sending ash several kilometers into the air. Winds pushed the plume south and east across Britain, Ireland, Scandinavia and into the heart of Europe. The European air navigation safety agency Eurocontrol says that only some 5,000 flights will take place in Europe yesterday compared to 22,000 in normal circumstances. On Friday, US airlines canceled 280 of the more than 330 trans-Atlantic flights of a normal day. The International Air Transport Association says the volcano is costing the industry at least $200 million a day.

The disruptions hit tourists, business travelers and dignitaries alike. German Chancellor Angela Merkel had to go to Portugal rather than Berlin as she flew home from a US visit.

China, Japan and Russia and five other Asian nations were missing finance talks with the European Union in Spain. The US military also had to adjust. Five German soldiers wounded in Afghanistan were diverted to Turkey instead of Germany, while US medical evacuations for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan had to be flown directly from the warfronts to Washington rather than to a care facility in Germany. The US military has also stopped using temporarily closed airbases in the UK and Germany.

In Iceland, torrents of water have carried away chunks of ice the size of small houses.

Sections of the country’s main ring road were wiped out by the flash floods. More floods from melting waters are expected as long as the volcano keeps erupting - and in 1821, the same volcano managed to erupt for more than a year. Iceland, a nation of 320,000 people, sits on a large volcanic hot spot in the Atlantic’s mid-oceanic ridge and has a history of devastating eruptions. One of the worst was the 1783 eruption of the Laki volcano, which spewed a toxic cloud over Europe, killing tens of thousands. — AP

Continued from Page 1 the UN Security Council, the IAEA and the NPT. “The Security Council has openly turned into a tool for the implementation of the policies of a few bullying governments. An independent international group which plans and oversees nuclear disarmament and prevents proliferation should be set up,” he told the conference attended by several foreign ministers and UN officials. He said those countries which “possess, have used or threatened to use nuclear weapons should be suspended from the IAEA and its board of governors, especially the US.” Ahmadinejad’s remark was expected to irk allies Russia and China, two nuclear states with veto powers in the Security Council that have so far hesitated to back a fourth set of sanctions against Tehran.

“The right to veto, which is undemocratic, inhumane and unfair, should either be annulled, or if some insist on having this right, then some countries from Latin America, Asia, Africa and Europe should also have the right to veto in order to reduce its negative outcomes,” he said.

Khamenei and Ahmadinejad have been angered by Washington’s new nuclear

policy unveiled last week. The policy limits the countries against which Washington might use its nuclear arsenal but singles out Iran and North Korea as exceptions for flouting Security Council resolutions over their nuclear programs.

Ahmadinejad also called upon “independent countries” to review the NPT, of which Iran is a signatory and as such considers it has the right to enrich uranium, the most controversial part of its nuclear program. “The presence of those possessing weapons, especially the US, prevents the drawing up of a fair treaty,” he said.

Iran’s conference brought together representatives from 60 countries, including China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, Turkey and France, as well as delegates from international bodies and non-governmental organizations, according to Iranian media. Russia’s deputy foreign minister, Sergei Rybakov, called for more confidence building measures from Tehran to allay international concerns over its nuclear program. “We need to reinforce, reinstall full confidence in the exclusively peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear program,” Rybakov said yesterday on Iran’s English-language Press TV.

Iran’s atomic chief Ali Akbar Salehi later in an interview on Press TV channel demanded that “a clear date be mentioned for global nuclear disarmament”.

Before the first day ended, the foreign ministers of Lebanon, Syria and Iraq jointly blasted Israel, Middle East’s sole but undeclared nuclear weapons power.

“The major threat in the region is Israel which has nuclear warheads. Israel must join this treaty and take quick steps to destroy its nuclear weapons,” Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem said.

His Lebanese counterpart Ali Al-Shami said Israel should be “stripped” of its arsenal “since the atomic weapons of the Zionist regime are not inspected, there is a danger of these weapons being used in the future”. “This regime must join the NPT without any conditions.” And Hoshyar Zebari, the foreign minister of Iran’s former foe Iraq, said: “We reject any threat against Iran and insist on Iran’s rights to use peaceful nuclear energy.” The Jewish state, which has never publicly acknowledged having atomic weapons while maintaining a policy of deliberate ambiguity, has not ruled out a military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities to halt its atomic program. — Agencies

Ten wounded in India cricket stadium blasts Continued from Page 1 warned their players in advance about participating in the Indian Premier League (IPL) about security threats in India.

The blasts blew off portions of an outer wall of the stadium, packed with people who had come to watch a match in the popular tournament. Bangalore police commissioner Shankar Bidari said the two bombs that exploded may have been hidden behind a plastic board. “It is a minor bomb blast, but investigations are in full swing to find out who is responsible,” Bidari told reporters. Two policemen and a private security guard were in intensive care for head injuries but were not in any danger, Nancy Jennifer, a doctor at Mallya Hospital in Bangalore, told AFP. The Twenty20 cricket match between Mumbai Indians and the home team Bangalore Royal Challengers, featuring

top foreign players started an hour late at (1130 GMT) after police secured the area and assured players of proper security.

The Bangalore team includes Kevin Pieterson from England, Jacques Kallis and Dale Steyn from South Africa, while Mumbai has star batsman Sachin Tendulkar and Kieron Pollard from West Indies in their playing 11.

Indian Home Ministry officials said cities had been asked to bolster security in key installations after the Bangalore blast, the second bomb attack since the 2008 Mumbai raid in which 166 people were killed in a three day carnage. In February, a powerful blast ripped through a restaurant in the western city of Pune, killing 17 people. India has blamed the Indian Mujahideen, a homegrown militant group with links to militants in Pakistan, for the Pune attack.

India’s Congress-led government is under increasing pressure from the opposition for failing to tackle issues such as

security and food inflation as it heads into eight key state polls over the next two years. India remains jittery about a perceived threat of Islamist attacks from Pakistani territory. It accuses its neighbour of failing to act against militant groups which have threatened to disrupt the cricket tournament and the Commonwealth Games. New Delhi has called a pause in peace talks with Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai attacks

by Pakistani-based militant group L ashkar-e-Taiba. It wants “credible steps” by Islamabad to bring the suspects to justice.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the Bangalore blast.

Police commissioner Bidari said forensic science experts were scouring the area for clues. In 2008, one woman was killed and several wounded in several lowintensity blasts in Bangalore, which were blamed on homegrown militant groups from southern India.— Agencies

Gulf youth challenge norms with cameras Continued from Page 1 the cosmopolitan city state. In “Haneen” (Longing), Hussein Al-Hulaybi becomes Bahrain’s first director to address relations between Sunnis and Shiites - a sensitive subject in the only Gulf country with a Shiite majority and a Sunni monarchy.

The Dubai festival also uncovered a generation of daring female directors, who with their cameras, creativity and determination are starting to question some long-standing taboos. One particularly bold step was taken

by Saudi amateur Reem Al-Bayyat, who addresses forced marriage in her short film “Doll”. “It is a common practice in the region. The girl is treated like a doll, lacking the freedom to choose,” said producer Samar Al-Bayyat, who is the director’s sister.

The film was made with the assistance of

several Bayyat family members, in a country where public cinemas are banned. The Saudi authorities recently cancelled a film festival being organised there. “I hope one day we can see our films projected in Saudi Arabia and open up a debate,” Samar AlBayaat said.

Omani director Muzna Al-Musafir meanwhile confronted the question of the veil in her film “Niqab”, which tells the story of a veiled woman who is haunted by doubts as she prepares for a rendezvous.

Niqab, named after the veil that some ultraconservative Muslim women wear to conceal their faces, was presented in the student film category. “Some women are forced to wear the niqab. We should not have prejudice towards them, as a fully veiled woman also has her own personality and positions,” said Musafir, 22, whose wears her hair in a short bob.

Two Emirati students, Maitha Hamdan and Maryam ben Ali, chose to evoke another problem facing their societies: the exaggerated dowries families demand for their daughters’ hand in marriage. “The film contains a series of interviews in which many young men said they prefer to marry foreigners to escape paying the dowry. It is a real problem,” Maitha Hamdan said. Other students like Moza Al-Sharif, also from the UAE, prefer to make lighter films such as “The Second Wife” - a documentary on the way men in the Gulf can be more affectionate towards their cars than towards their wives. “This is a cinema still in its infancy, but there is much hope,” Moroccan filmmaker and chairman of the jury Jillali Ferhati told AFP. “The ideas are there, even if there is not enough experience in using film techniques, especially editing and dialogue.” — AFP

Saudis set up nuke energy centre Continued from Page 1

JAMMU: A Hindu holy man takes an elephant bathing at Ranbir canal yesterday. Places across north India have been experiencing a heat wave condition, with capital New Delhi recording the season’s highest of 42 degrees Celsius Thursday. — AP

Fast growing power demand is forcing Saudi Arabia to look at all sources of energy, the kingdom’s deputy minister of electricity, Saleh Alawaji said last month. The kingdom aims to increase the use of crude oil for power generation to 2.5 million barrels of oil equivalent (BOE) on a daily average by 2020 from 1.5 million BOE in 2009, Alawaji told Reuters earlier this month. Last year, France’s Economy Minister said Saudi Arabia and France were close to finalising a civilian nuclear energy cooperation agreement.

The kingdom’s Minister of Water and Electricity then said the Middle East’s largest economy was considering building its first nuclear power plant. Neighbouring Kuwait agreed on Friday with France to develop nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. The United Arab Emirates was the first Gulf Arab country to take the nuclear route, in a bid to meet rising electricity demand for a fast-growing population. In December, it awarded a deal worth up to $40 billion, one of the largest ever awarded in the Middle East, to a South Korean consortium to build and operate four nuclear reactors on its soil.

The UAE, the world’s third-biggest oil

exporter, has plans to build its first nuclear reactor by 2017. It will also host the International Renewable Energy Agency’s (IRENA) newly-created headquarters.

The Saudis have moved cautiously toward nuclear power, but the desert kingdom is already pumping money into solar energy research and development. In January the government announced a project for a solar power-fueled desalination plant in the Gulf coast city of Al-Khafji that could produce 30,000 cu m of fresh water daily from seawater. The second phase of the project would expand the capacity tenfold. — Agencies

SPORTS

Sunday, April 18, 2010

15

League must let players go to 2014 Games — Gretzky NEW YORK: Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky, the former center known as ‘The Great One’, has urged the NHL to allow its players to go to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has been non-committal about taking a threeweek break from the season to allow players to compete in Russia.

“The Olympic Games helps hockey,” Gretzky told Reuters. “The last eight years the Russian players, Swedish players and all the European guys have played in the United States and Canada,” he said referring to the 2010 edition in Vancouver and Salt Lake City in 2002.

“I understand from the commissioner’s point of view there are worries about shutting down the league for 20 days. But I think this is one time as North Americans we owe it to them to go over to their Olympics.”

Gretzky, who lit the cauldron to launch the Vancouver Olympics, said February’s final between the United States and Canada was one of hockey’s best games.

“It was a great game. It was so good and so positive for the National Hockey League, having a U.S.Canada final,” he said in an interview organised by Gillette.

“There are a few games that go down in history, like in 1980 when the U.S. beat the Russians. It was just exciting. It was a positive for our sport.”

Gretzky said fans in his adopted state of California were still talking about the thrilling final won in suddendeath overtime by Canada.

“Everywhere I go everybody says the same thing’We’re devastated we lost but what a hockey game ... and that’s what sports is all about.” Gretzky stepped down as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes in September.

He retired as a player in 1999 after 20 seasons that included four Stanley Cup wins with the Edmonton Oilers.

Gretzky was named Phoenix coach in 2005 but in four seasons the club went 143-161-24 and never made the playoffs.—Reuters

PITTSBURGH: Penguins’ Evgeni Malkin (71) of Russia is shoved to the ice by Ottawa Senators’ Mike Fisher (12) in the first period of a first-round NHL playoff hockey game.—AP

Crosby stars as Penguins beat Senators PITTSBURGH: Sidney Crosby scored a goal, prevented one and his deft stickhandling led to Kris Letang’s winner late in the third period as the Pittsburgh Penguins rebounded to beat the Ottawa Senators 2-1 on Friday night to level the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at a game apiece.

Several minutes after Crosby slid on his stomach across the crease to punch away Anton Volchenkov’s shot as it lay inches from the goal line, Crosby began cycling the puck by himself behind the Ottawa net.

Looking for an opening to pass or to dart out and take a shot, he crossed the goalie trapezoid three times before finally carrying the puck out and, sliding to the ice, feeding it to Letang at the right point. Letang’s shot with 4:12 left beat goalie Brian Elliott, who made 29 saves but didn’t get any support after Peter Regin scored on the Senators’ first shot 18 seconds into the game.

Penguins goalie Marc-Andre Fleury shook off that goal and a poor first game to turn aside Ottawa’s next 19 shots.

Sharks 6, Avalanche 5 At San Jose, Devin Setoguchi deflected in a loose puck for a power-play goal 5:32 into overtime as the Sharks rallied to level the Western Conference series 1-1. Joe Pavelski tied it for the Sharks with 31.3 seconds left in regulation and goalie Evgeni Nabokov off for an extra attacker, and Setoguchi won it with his second goal of the game with Adam Foote in the penalty box for Colorado for interference.

The Sharks avoided dropping the first two games at home for a third straight playoff series.

The series shifts to Denver for Games 3 and 4 beginning Sunday night. Nabokov earned his fifth overtime win in 13 playoff games. He allowed five goals on the first 13 shots he faced, getting

mock applause when he stopped an easy dump-in midway through the third period.

Ron Blake, Manny Malhotra and Scott Nichol also scored for San Jose. Chris Stewart had two goals, and Kyle Cumiskey, Milan Hejduk and Brandon Yip also scored for Colorado.

Zubrus powered his way around the net and sent a shot on goal that was blocked. Parise and Zubrus both swung at the rebound and the puck went into the net. Kovalchuk added an empty-net goal.

Devils 5, Flyers 3

At Chicago, JP Dumont scored twice in the final period as the Nashville Predators won for the first time on the road in the playoffs, rallying to beat the Blackhawks in the Western Conference quarterfinal opener.

It was Nashville’s first road playoff win in 11 attempts and it was a dramatic one with former Blackhawk Dumont burning his former team in the third. Pekka Rinne made 25 saves in his playoff debut for the Predators, allowing only Patrick Kane’s second-period goal.

After Dumont gave Nashville a 2-1 lead, Jerred Smithson and Martin Erat added empty-

net goals in the final 48 seconds. Nashville’s David Legwand got the puck after a turnover by Chicago’s Troy Brouwer, raced in and took a shot that Antti Niemi stopped, but Dumont was there to knock in the rebound to give the Predators a 21 lead at 10:37 of the final period.

Predators 4, Blackhawks 1 At Newark, New Jersey, Dainius Zubrus scored on a rebound with 4:04 to play as New Jersey beat Philadelphia to level the Eastern Conference series at 1-all. Zach Parise, Colin White, Andy Greene and Ilya Kovalchuk also scored and Martin Brodeur stopped 26 shots to help New Jersey avoid losing the first two games at home in the best-of-7 series.

Aaron Asham, Claude Giroux and Chris Pronger scored for the Flyers, who’re headed home for Games 3 and 4 on Sunday and Tuesday.

Brian Boucher had no chance on Zubrus’ goal.

Red Wings 7, Coyotes 4 At Glendale, Arizona, Henrik Zetterberg scored three goals, including the winner with 6:06 left, as Detroit leveled the Western Conference series 1-1. Zetterberg scored the deciding goal when he gathered a rebound off a shot by Todd Bertuzzi and fed it into an open net.

He added an empty-net goal with 47 seconds left.

Linemate Valtteri Filppula scored twice and Justin Abdelkader and Pavel Datsyuk added goals for Detroit. Shane Doan, Matthew Lombardi, Wojtek Wolski and Keith Yandle scored for Phoenix. Game 3 is Sunday in Detroit. —AP

Quail Hollow ready for Tiger circus

CHINA: YE Yang of Korea in action during the third round of the Volvo China Open at Suzhou Jinji Lake International Golf Club in Suzhou.—AP

Yang finds fairways, leads at China Open SUZHOU: Asia’s first major winner Yang Yong-eun put his trust in his driver and cut through gusting winds at the China Open yesterday to move to the top of the third round leaderboard with a bogey-free 68.

The South Korean, one of only three players not to card a bogey in difficult conditions, holds a one-shot lead over Jamie Donaldson of Wales and Finn Mikko Ilonen going into the final round.

Blustery breezes made the links-style holes particularly difficult for the players.

Toughest of all was the 492-yard par-4 18th, playing straight into the wind.

Several players strayed into fairway bunkers, while US Ryder captain Corey Pavin took his driver off the fairway but

still pulled up short.

Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee probably lost his chance of the title when he needed three shots to move his ball out of the rough on the right.

“It’s a very tough hole,” said Yang. “I was in the sand on day one but I saved my par. My strategy is to aim left and come in over the left-hand greenside bunker.

“Luckily my driver is working well and I’ve been able to find the exact spot I’m looking for on the fairway.” Yang seemed untroubled by forecasts of bad weather on Sunday.

“If it rains or is windy you need extra attention and focus,” he said. “My approach will be just to concentrate on

each shot I make.”

The lead changed hands throughout the day, with Yang, Donaldson, Ilonen and overnight leader Kim Do-hoon of South Korea all finding themselves on top.

The low round of the day came from Welshman Rhys Davies, whose bogey-free 65 included eagles on both the par-5s on the back nine and lifted him 53 places up the leaderboard. At eight-under-par he is six shots off the lead.

Countryman Stephen Dodd, who was playing alongside European Ryder captain Colin Montgomerie, was the day’s other player to avoid a bogey and climbed the leaderboard with a 66 that left him tied for fifth with Kim on 10-under. —Reuters

LOS ANGELES: Organisers of the Quail Hollow Championship are confident the tournament will go smoothly when the disgraced Tiger Woods plays there for his first regular PGA Tour event of the season.

Although the world number one made his highly anticipated return to competition from self-imposed exile at last week’s US Masters, Quail Hollow will be the first tournament in his comeback where tickets are sold to the general public.

While Woods was given a warm welcome by the fans in the tightly controlled environment at Augusta National for the Masters, he could well experience his first on-course heckling since his double life was exposed.

“We don’t anticipate a problem with our crowds,” tournament director Kym Hougham told Reuters on Friday. “Our crowds are very respectful and they always have been.

“If there is any inappropriate behavior, we’ll act on it swiftly. I’m sure if Tiger didn’t feel we could handle it, he wouldn’t be coming here.”

Woods has always enjoyed playing at Quail Hollow where he triumphed in 2007 and Hougham said the world number one’s participation again this year had been a key component in preparations for the April 29-May 2 event.

“We started internal planning almost two months ago and we had a Tiger plan just in case,” Hougham added. “Now we can implement it.”

Although reluctant to dis-

close details, Hougham said security plans had been tweaked to ensure the safety of the game’s leading player.

“We don’t comment on security but we feel comfortable with the plan that we have in place,” he said. “We have always been pretty strict and secure and we believe every player deserves the kind of security we provide.”

The return of Woods to professional golf at the Masters following tawdry revelations he had a string of extra-marital affairs made the season’s opening major one of the biggest spectacles in sport this year.

The 14-times major champion came under intense media scrutiny at Augusta National and more of the same can be expected at Quail Hollow.

Lee Patterson, the tournament’s director of communications, said the Quail Hollow media centre was being expanded but that many nontraditional golf outlets had missed the April 2 cutoff for accreditation.

“I already had 72 media outlets and around 250 (people) accredited prior to yesterday,” Patterson told Reuters.

“I was able to accommodate only about 30 more people before I reached capacity due to my space limitations.”

The Quail Hollow Championship always attracts a strong field and this year’s event will also feature American world number two Phil Mickelson, the winner of last week’s Masters, and fourth-ranked Lee Westwood of Britain.—Reuters

AUGUSTA: Tiger Woods of the US tips his hat to the gallery in this file photo. —AP

SPORTS

16

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Lakers stumble into playoffs with injuries, losses EL SEGUNDO: Sitting in his padded black chair on the sidelines, Phil Jackson watched his team finish off a 21/2-hour practice on Friday.

The best thing he saw? Kobe Bryant and Andrew Bynum back in action. The Los Angeles Lakers definitely missed the pair while stumbling through losses in seven of their last 11 NBA games.

Sure, they still earned the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference and homecourt advantage throughout the conference finals, but they hardly looked like the defending champions.

“We’ve all been a little bit frus-

trated with how things sometimes have gone,” Pau Gasol said. “Right now it’s all about getting together, get focused and get back to business.” No one believes that more than Bryant, who detests talking about his injuries.

He sat out four of the team’s final five games to rest a swollen right knee and a broken finger on his right hand. He’s got a sore ankle, too.

“I admire him that he plays through injuries and has done that all year long,” Oklahoma City Thunder coach Scott Brooks said.

“A lot of guys in the league do not

want to put themself out there if their body is not feeling good or up to par but Kobe does it.” Bynum missed 13 straight games with a strained right Achilles’.

“He looked great,” Derek Fisher said. “If it’s based on how he looks today, he’s ready.” Bryant ended practice by shooting free throws on the side, while Bynum joined the rest of the team for sprints. “I feel pretty good. It was good to get up and down,” Bryant said.

“It was one of the longest, hardest practices we’ve had all year.”

Bynum said he felt good, too,

although the 7-foot (2.14-meter) center doesn’t expect to play his usual minutes in Sunday’s playoff opener against the Thunder. “I’ve got to get my timing back and conditioning back, but I would definitely be able to be out there and be effective,” he said.

Jackson said he’ll reserve judgment on Bynum until Saturday, when the effects of his first practice in a month will be evident. He was pleased with Bryant’s shooting touch. The injury bug extends to just about every player on the roster.

Reserve center DJ Mbenga got

elbowed in the head and was sent to a specialist to check on a possible concussion. Ron Artest has been playing with a bruised left heel and a sprained left thumb, while Shannon Brown is playing with a sprained right thumb and Sasha Vujacic has a sprained right shoulder. Luke Walton just returned after missing nearly a month with a pinched nerve in his back. Jordan Farmar pulled a hamstring and sat out most of the regular-season finale.

“They’re the defending champs, they have a team that is built to win now and for a few years from now,”

Brooks said. “They’re still going to be a very good team.” Yet, Jackson rejects the popular perception that the Lakers simply flip a switch when it’s time to play well. “Intensity can grow a little bit, but I’m not a believer in turning the switch on,” he said.

“That’s what we’ve been harping about for the last three weeks, getting it together. They know they have to play and it’s not just an instantaneous thing they’re going to be able to do.” In case his teammates needed reminding, Fisher addressed them during the annual team meeting held the night after

Angels down Jays, Indians triumph

Phillies hang on for victory over Marlins PHILADELPHIA: Roy Halladay pitched eight strong innings in a soggy home debut, while Chase Utley hit his fifth homer in four games as the Philadelphia Phillies held on for an 8-6 victory over the Florida Marlins on Friday night.

Halladay ended Jorge Cantu’s major league-record streak of 10 games with at least one hit and one RBI, and Dan Uggla hit a solo shot for Florida. Pitching in a steady rain, Halladay shrugged off the conditions and allowed two runs and eight hits. He threw 100 pitches, struck out four and didn’t walk a batter.

Florida took advantage of three infield hits to score four runs off David Herndon in the ninth before Ryan Madson got the two outs for his third save in three tries.

Utley has connected in four straight games and has six homers this season. Placido Polanco also went deep for Philadelphia, which has won eight of its first 10.

Cubs 7, Astros 2 At Chicago, Derrek Lee hit a three-run homer and Carlos Silva pitched seven strong innings to lead the Cubs. Ryan Theriot drove in the go-ahead run for the Cubs with a seventh-inning squeeze, and Kosuke Fukudome added a sacrifice fly before Lee capped the six-run inning by hitting Jeff Fulchino’s 3-2 pitch over the left-field wall for his third home run of the season. Silva allowed five hits, no walks and no earned runs in his second straight stellar start.

Felipe Paulino allowed only one run and four hits through six innings before Marlon Byrd doubled leading off the seventh. Alfonso Soriano followed with a double to tie it at 2.

Cardinals 4, Mets 3 At St. Louis, Felipe Lopez hit a grand slam in the seventh inning as the Cardinals rallied against the New York Mets bullpen before holding on for a victory. The Mets led 1-0 on the strength of an unearned run and stingy work from Oliver Perez before Lopez hit his fifth career grand slam off 32-year-old rookie Raul Valdes. His first homer of the season came on a 2-1 pitch and landed in the visitor’s bullpen in left.

Chris Carpenter struck out 10 in seven innings and allowed an unearned run on four hits, making a strong rebound from a poor outing Sunday. Fernando Nieve took the loss.

Nationals 5, Brewers 3 At Washington, Adam Kennedy’s two-run single in the eighth inning keyed a three-run rally as the Nationals topped Milwaukee.

Brian Bruney, who allowed an unearned run in the top of the eighth to give Milwaukee a temporary 3-2 lead, was the winner.

It was the second loss in as many games for LaTroy Hawkins, who allowed four runs in the eighth inning Wednesday in Chicago. He’s given up seven runs in his

TORONTO: Kendry Morales homered, Jered Weaver continued his mastery over Toronto with seven strong innings as the Los Angeles Angels beat the Blue Jays 7-5 on Friday night.

Vernon Wells, Randy Ruiz and Adam Lind homered for Toronto, but it wasn’t enough as Weaver improved to 6-1 with a 2.93 ERA in seven career starts against the Blue Jays.

Weaver allowed two runs and five hits in seven-plus innings.

He walked none and struck out eight.

Weaver’s strong outing spoiled Shaun Marcum’s first home start for Toronto since Sept. 16, 2008, when he left two innings into a game against Baltimore with tightness in his forearm.

Marcum missed the rest that season and all of 2009 after ligament replacement surgery on his right elbow. Marcum (0-1) allowed four runs and seven hits in seven innings. He walked one and struck out six.

last two innings.

Pirates 4, Reds 3 At Pittsburgh, Lastings Milledge singled home the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning as the Pirates beat Cincinnati after blowing a late three-run lead. Andrew McCutchen singled with two outs and stole second base, making him 6 for 6 in steal attempts. Milledge then laced a single up the middle off Nick Masset (2-1).

Octavio Dotel (1-0) got the win despite suffering his first blown save in three opportunities. Cincinnati had tied it at 3-all in the top of the ninth against Dotel as pinch-hitter Chris Dickerson tripled off the center-field wall and scored on Orlando Cabrera’s oneout sacrifice fly to deep left.

Indians 6, White Sox 2 At Cleveland, Mitch Talbot pitched a complete game for his first career win and Luis Valbuena hit a two-run homer for Cleveland.

Talbot retired 12 in a row after Paul Konerko ended an 0-for-12 slump with his fourth homer leading off the second inning.

The right-hander, acquired in December from Tampa Bay, gave up six hits and struck out two without walking a batter.

Luis Valbuena hit a two-run homer and the Indians scored three unearned runs off Mark Buehrle. Talbot’s outing comes a day after David Huff went the distance in a 3-2 win against Texas, giving Cleveland its first back-to-back complete game victories since September 1996.

Braves 9, Rockies 5 At Atlanta, Jason Heyward and Melky Cabrera each had two hits during a seven-run second inning as the Braves won their third straight.

Eric Hinske drove in three runs and Chipper Jones homered for the Braves, who again made things easy for Derek Lowe (3-0). In Lowe’s three starts, Atlanta has scored 32 runs; the other four starters have gotten a total of 24 runs.

The 20-year-old Heyward led off the second against Jason Hammel (0-1) with a single to center and came around to score. He singled again before the inning was done, knocking out Hammel.

Dodgers 10, Giants 8 At Los Angeles, Andre Ethier hit his first grand slam while homering in his first two at-bats to lead the Dodgers over San Francisco.

Vicente Padilla (1-1) allowed three runs and four hits over seven innings and struck out seven after his teammates staked him to a 7-0 lead. Matt Kemp equaled a career best by homering in his fourth straight game, but slugger Manny Ramirez left after three innings because of tightness in his right calf.

Giants center fielder Aaron Rowand was hit on the bill of the helmet by a pitch from Padilla in fifth.

After several minutes on his knees by home plate, Rowand walked off the field without help, accompanied

by San Francisco manager Bruce Bochy and a trainer.

Padres 6, D’backs 3 At San Diego, Chase Headley hit a three-run homer off Juan Gutierrez with two outs in the ninth inning to lift the Padres.

Heath Bell (1-0) pitched one inning for the win. It was Gutierrez’s first blown save in as many chances.

Starting in the third, the Padres retired the last 19 Diamondbacks, two with assists from Kyle Blanks, the left fielder. Blanks threw out Jackson trying to stretch a single into a double in the fourth, then threw out Justin Upton trying to take second on an error by third baseman Chase Headley. —AP

the regular season ended.

“I just wanted to share some things that I felt were important,” he said, declining to be specific. “I do think there will be a lot of things that we’ll do much better starting on Sunday. Just having the opportunity to have Kobe back in the lineup, (Bynum) is in the lineup.

We’ll be a much better basketball team than we have been the last couple weeks on Sunday, but whether or not that’s good enough to beat a team who’s playing really well right now, we’ll have to see.” —AP

Yankees 5, Rangers 1 At New York, CC Sabathia struck out nine in another dominant performance against the sloppy Rangers. Sabathia allowed three hits and walked none in his first complete game of the season.

He retired 17 of the last 19 batters he faced after Josh Hamilton’s one-out double in the first, including six consecutive strikeouts. CJ Wilson, working on seven days’ rest, also pitched six innings for Texas but was hurt by control problems and first baseman Chris Davis’ throwing error during New York’s three-run fourth.

Rays 1, Red Sox 1 At Boston, The game between the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox was suspended because of rain with the scores level after 81/2 innings on Friday night.

It was scheduled to resume before Saturday night’s scheduled game from the point it was suspended. Rain was forecast for all day Saturday.

The Rays scored in the third on Ben Zobrist’s RBI single and the Red Sox tied it in the fifth on Jason Varitek’s third homer — and third hit — of the season.

ATLANTA: Colorado Rockies shortstop Troy Tulowitzki avoids Atlanta Braves base runner Yunel Escobar as he turns a double play on a Melky Cabrera ground ball in the sixth inning of a Major League baseball game. —AP

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

Chicago Cubs 7, Houston 2; NY Yankees 5, Texas 1; Cleveland 6, Chicago White Sox 2; Washington 5, Milwaukee 3; Philadelphia 8, Florida 6; Pittsburgh 4, Cincinnati 3; LA Angels 7, Toronto 5; Atlanta 9, Colorado 5; Minnesota 10, Kansas City 3; St. Louis 4, NY Mets 3; San Diego 6, Arizona 3; Oakland 4, Baltimore 2; Seattle 11, Detroit 3; LA Dodgers 10, San Francisco 8. Boston V Tampa Bay (suspended due to rain) American League Eastern Division W L PCT NY Yankees 7 3 .700 Tampa Bay 6 3 .667 Toronto 7 4 .636 Boston 4 5 .444 Baltimore 1 10 .091 Central Division Minnesota 8 3 .727 Detroit 6 4 .600 Cleveland 4 6 .400 Kansas City 4 6 .400 Chicago White Sox 4 7 .364

GB .5 .5 2.5 6.5 1.5 3.5 3.5 4

Western Division 8 4 .667 5 5 .500 5 6 .455 4 7 .364 National League Eastern Division Philadelphia 8 2 .800 Atlanta 6 4 .600 Florida 6 5 .545 Washington 5 5 .500 NY Mets 3 7 .300 Oakland Texas Seattle LA Angels

2 2.5 3.5

2 2.5 3 5

Central Division 7 3 .700 5 5 .500 5 5 .500 5 6 .455 4 6 .400 1 9 .100 Western Division San Francisco 7 3 .700 Arizona 5 5 .500 Colorado 5 5 .500 LA Dodgers 5 5 .500 San Diego 4 6 .400 St. Louis Chicago Cubs Pittsburgh Cincinnati Milwaukee Houston

2 2 2.5 3 6 2 2 2 3

Twins 10, Royals 3 At Minneapolis, Zack Greinke walked five in just five innings, getting out-pitched by Scott Baker in the first night game at Target Field.

Greinke gave up six hits and four runs — two earned — with five strikeouts. After giving up four earned runs in his first eight starts on his way to the AL Cy Young Award last year, Greinke has already given up seven earned runs in three starts this season.

Baker looked like the real ace on a cool night under the lights at the new ballpark.

He gave up two runs and seven hits with six strikeouts and no walks.

Mariners 11, Tigers 3 At Seattle, Felix Hernandez returned home and showed why Seattle recently gave him $78 million, and the Mariners’ usually quiet bats made their most noise in eight months in an 11-3 victory over Detroit.

Hernandez struck out nine — Seattle’s season high — while allowing just four hits and two runs in 6 2-3 innings in his home debut.

Franklin Gutierrez had three hits and three RBIs, and Jose Lopez drove in two as the Mariners improved to 28-9 with King Felix starting since the beginning of 2009.

Last season’s runner-up for the Cy Young Award turned 24 a week ago.

Detroit’s Jeremy Bonderman flopped in his second start after missing most of the last year and a half because of a blood clot in his pitching shoulder. —AP

Sunday, April 18, 2010

SPORTS

17

No drama this year for Castroneves in Long Beach LONG BEACH: Six months of life-altering pressure exploded out of Helio Castroneves. Acquitted on US tax evasion charges, the charismatic Brazilian driver broke down inside a Miami courtroom, relieved the most difficult episode of his life had come to such a joyful conclusion.

Next day, Castroneves was on the other side of the United States in Long Beach, behind the wheel of his IndyCar. There was no other place he wanted to be. The cocoon of the cockpit was where he felt most comfortable and the chance to get there was worth the harried, cross-country scramble.

Worth it?

Absolutely.

With a choice, though, Castroneves would prefer the way he’s headed into this year’s Grand Prix of Long Beach: No drama, no emotional seesaw, no rush.

“Certainly, in that situation it was total out of my understanding, language, my world,” Castroneves said. “I’m glad to be back in my territory.”

During Castroneves’ federal trial, Team Penske temporarily put Australian Will Power in his car. As the end of the trial moved closer, the team had to sort out what to do if suddenly there were three drivers instead of two.

Castroneves is one of the most successful and popular drivers in the IndyCar Series — that appearance on the US “Dancing with the Stars” did wonders for his outside-racing appeal — so leaving him without a ride, even for just one race, wasn’t an option.

Power had proven himself a capable driver and a dedicated employee who never complained even though the floor mat could be pulled out from him at any

moment. He didn’t deserve to lose his ride, either.

To make sure both drivers would have something to drive, Team Penske prepared three cars instead of its usual two.

The team had never run three cars at the same time and didn’t exactly want word to get out because of the sensitivity of Castroneves’ case, so there was a lot of don’t-let-anyone-know work to be done.

The weeks before Long Beach were used to get the car ready, setting up engine and tire contracts, making sure it would be good enough to run up front, not just roll around the track. Once in Southern California, the team asked the third crew to stay at the hotel while the extra car sat cloaked, away from the tents and haulers so no one would know what was going on.

“I told Will before the weekend that

the good news was that he was going to drive, the bad news was that I didn’t know what car he’d end up in by Sunday,” said Tim Cindric, president of Penske Performance Inc. Word of Castroneves’ acquittal came halfway through the first practice run on Friday.

The mad scramble was put into motion: A plane to Florida to pick up Castroneves, a third team to the track, the third car under the tent and on the rack. That early preparation paid off.

Power had the fastest practice time, put a different car on the pole and nearly won the race, finishing second.

Castroneves looked like he had been racing all along, not in a court room for seven weeks, earning the best-feeling seventh-place finish he’s ever had. “It was such a difficult nightmare it was definitely great to be back in the game,” said

Castroneves, who went on to win the Indianapolis 500 for the third time a month later. Back to this year’s race.

With Power on full time, Team Penske took the offseason to reassess the organization, make sure it had the right people in the right places to give all three cars a chance to win races.

One major decision was to move Rick Rinaman, Castroneves’ chief mechanic, into more of a global role, overseeing engineering contracts and the three crews. Losing a veteran from a hands-on leadership position and having several crew members in new positions, Castroneves went through a feeling-out period to start the season, finishing ninth in Brazil, then fourth in St. Petersburg _ both races Power won.

The new/old crew started to find a rhythm with Castroneves last week in

Alabama and they walked away with the checkered flag, using an early fuel strategy maneuver to give “Spiderman” a chance to climb the fence and hug his daughter as a race winner for the first time.

There’s still some kinks to be worked out between Castroneves and his crew, but they’re clearly headed down the right path as they race back toward Long Beach, one of his favorite stops on the IRL circuit. It’s certainly a lot better than last year.

“There’s no comparison, really,” Cindric said. “Last year, we had two cars under one tent, another car over here closed up, not knowing what’s going to happen. There were a lot of things in the air whereas this year we come in here prepared and it’s just business as usual.” —AP

Reds prove credentials with tough win over Bulls

FORT WORTH: Tony Stewart, driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevrolet, poses in victory lane after qualifying for the pole position in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Samsung Mobile 500.—AP

Stewart on NASCAR pole FORT WORTH: Tony Stewart will start his 400th race in NASCAR’s top series from the pole after winning qualifying for the first time in five years on Friday.

Stewart turned a lap of 191.327 mph (307.9 kph) at Texas Motor Speedway for the Samsung Mobile 500 today. It’s been 155 races since Stewart last won the pole, at Martinsville in October 2005.

“I’m surprised,” Stewart said. “I’m really not much of a qualifier.” It’s the third time Stewart has won the pole in Texas. He was the top qualifier twice in the IndyCar Series in the 1990s.

Former IRL star Sam Hornish Jr., still winless in his third full season, almost

knocked Stewart off the pole. He settled for second with a lap of 191.232.

Greg Biffle, who was denied a seventh straight top-10 finish to start the season last week in Phoenix, qualified third for today’s race. Four-time defending NASCAR champion and current points leader Jimmie Johnson was fourth.

The pole drought didn’t keep Stewart from winning races. Thirteen of his 37 victories have come since his last pole, the same year he won his second stock car series championship.

Stewart’s strong qualifying run came a week after Ryan Newman won for the first time with Stewart-Haas Racing and ended

his 77-race drought. “To get him that first win for the organization this early in the year, that totally made it for the organization,” Stewart said.

There’s an attitude in the shop that hasn’t been there, period.”

Hornish won three times at Texas in the IRL but hasn’t been able to translate that success to NASCAR. He might be turning a corner, though, with a career-best qualifying run for the second week in a row. He started third last week. “I knew it was going to be a good lap, but I didn’t think it was going to be the second-fastest,” Hornish Jr. said.

“We did make a pretty good jump from where we were in practice.”—AP

SYDNEY: The Queensland Reds cemented their Super 14 semi-final credentials with a 19-12 victory over defending champions the Bulls in a tense match in Brisbane yesterday.

The Reds, in fourth place on 30 points, exploited a tiring Bulls pack in the second half after both sides had embarked on an intense and high-tempo game plan from the outset.

The home side scored two tries, both from turnovers, by blindside flanker Scott Higginbotham and winger Rod Davies while Quade Cooper slotted three penalties.

The Reds then produced a superb defensive effort in the final 10 minutes after Bulls replacement Pedrie Wannenburg had grabbed a try to give the South Africans a sniff of victory.

“Outstanding effort. We spoke about application, effort and attitude before the game and we came out and did all those things,” Reds captain Will Genia said in a television interview.

“We (have learnt) how to win tight games and how to stay in the contest and we definitely did that.” The Reds dominated the opening exchanges but Bulls flanker Derick Kuun opened the scoring with a try in the fifth minute after the visitors counter-attacked from deep inside their own half.

Morne Steyn added the conversion before the home side got on the board when Higginbotham outsprinted two Bulls backs to Genia’s long-range speculative kick that rolled into open space close to the line.

Cooper missed the conversion but added a penalty to send the home side into the break with an 8-7 lead, after Steyn had missed a kickable penalty as the halftime hooter sounded.

Flyhalf Cooper added two penalties early in the second half before Davies finished a sweeping backline movement from 60 metres out after the Reds had stolen the ball from a Bulls lineout.

The Bulls, however, found a second wind as they emptied their bench and replacement Wannenburg gave his side hope when he pounced on untidy ball from a Reds defensive scrum to make the score 19-12 with less than 10 minutes remaining.

“It was a great game, both teams carried the ball quite a bit and they kept it very well and we couldn’t get our hands on it,” Bulls captain Victor Matfield said.

“They built phases and really tested our defence ... well done to them, they played well.”—Reuters

BRISBANE: Fourie du Preez (left) of South African Bulls is tackled by Anthony Faingaa of Queenland Reds during their Super 14 Rugby match.—AP

Crusaders too strong for Cheetahs AUCKLAND: An understrength Canterbury Crusaders moved to the top of the Super 14 table after crushing the Cheetahs 45-6 in Christchurch yesterday.

The Crusaders, without injured All Blacks flyhalf Daniel Carter and with several other internationals on the bench or rested by coach Todd Blackadder, moved to 34 points. The Crusaders were ruthless up front with their scrum particularly destructive, while the Cheetahs seemed more intent on keeping the score down than attempting to win the game.

“I thought as the game wore

on it had the potential to loosen up but the guys stuck to their tasks really well and I’m quite pleased about that,” Crusaders captain Richie McCaw said in a televised interview.

The Crusaders’ forward dominance was evident throughout with scrumhalf Kahn Fotuali’i opening the scoring when he scampered more than 50 metres after the Crusaders upset the Cheetahs scrum.

Centre Ryan Crotty scored after a sustained buildup by the forwards created an overlap, then number eight Thomas Waldrom scored the first of his two tries. Waldrom scored his

second try from a push-over by the Canterbury scrum just before halftime to secure a bonus point.

Colin Slade added three conversions for the home side to put the game beyond doubt with a 26-6 score at the break, after Riaan Viljoen and Meyer Bosman, who replaced the injured Viljoen, slotted penalties for the Cheetahs. The Cheetahs continued to endeavour in the second half without providing any real threat to the Crusaders, who scored three further tries to winger Sean Maitland, prop Ben Franks and replacement winger Zac Guildford.—Reuters

Blues blow away Force AUCKLAND: All Blacks winger Joe Rokocoko scored a hat-trick of tries to spark the Auckland Blues to a 38-17 victory over the Western Force in their Super 14 match at Eden Park yesterday, keeping alive their slim playoffs hopes.

Tony Woodcock, Alby Mathewson and Rudi Wulf also scored tries for the home side, while Luke McAlister slotted four conversions as the Blues moved to seventh on the table on 25 points.

The Blues, who now head to South Africa for three matches, are four points behind the fourth-placed New South Wales Waratahs (29), who have a bye week.

“It’s a great way to head

away and nice for the boys to open up (and score some tries),” Blues captain Keven Mealamu said in a televised interview. “I thought that was a really good team effort.”

The opening 10 minutes were blighted by poor handling, elementary errors and terrible decision making by both sides, with the Western Force’s James O’Connor slotting just one of his three penalty attempts.

The Blues finally began to gain some territory and string phases together and Rokocoko imposed himself on the match with two tries within 10 minutes, while he also sparked the move that led to prop Woodcock’s try.

McAlister, given the goal-

kicking duties ahead of Stephen Brett, made two awful attempts before he converted two of the tries to give the home side a 193 lead at the break.

Mathewson opened the scoring in the second half when he took a quick tap penalty and was untroubled by any of the Force defenders, and Rokocoko completed his hat-trick shortly after following a superb short pass from McAlister.

Rudi Wulf scored the Blues’ sixth try with 15 minutes remaining but the Force scored two consolation tries in the final five minutes, to openside flanker David Pocock and a penalty try to end the game. O’Connor converted both.—Reuters

Zhang battles back to give Hendry a scare

LE MANS: French rider Matthieu Lagrive (left) rides his Honda in front of French rider Sebastien Scarnato during the 33rd of the Le Mans 24-hour endurance race. —AFP

SHEFFIELD: Chinese teenager Zhang Anda produced an impressive fight-back against former champion Stephen Hendry to trail 5-4 in yesterday’s World Championship first round clash.

Hendry had admitted on Friday that he knew absolutely nothing about the 18-year-old and Zhang, a surprise qualifier for the event, overcame a nervous start to make his illustrious opponent look distinctly second-best at times. Zhang lost the first four frames of the best-of-19 match at Sheffield’s Crucible theatre.

However, Zhang had a 15-minute interval in which to compose himself and returned to

reduce Hendry’s lead to 4-3 before the seventime former champion halted his poor run by winning a mistake-ridden eighth frame.

Hendry looked like making it 6-3 but let a good chance slip and Zhang took advantage to ensure he would only trail 5-4 ahead of Sunday’s concluding session.

Zhang had beaten John Parrott in the early stages of the qualifying event at the World Snooker Academy, also in Sheffield, which was the result which knocked the 1991 Crucible champion out of the top 64 and prompted his decision to retire.

It was nevertheless a lot to ask of Zhang to expect him to trouble Hendry at the venue

where the Scot won five consecutive titles in the 1990s.

Hendry charged into a 4-0 lead at the midsession interval, with breaks of 60 and 73, as Zhang struggled to make any impact.

But a break of 83 got him off the mark, and the match began to take on a fresh complexion when he pinched another two frames with breaks of 69 and 64 to squeeze the gap to just one.

Hendry needed to find a frame, and after getting the better of a safety battle in the eighth frame he had a chance but broke down early. The frame, so important to both players, became disrupted by a flurry of errors.—AFP

SPORTS

18

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Soccer results/standings Birmingham 0 Birmingham 0 Hull 0; Blackburn 2 (Nzonzi 69, Roberts 81) Everton 3 (Arteta 4-pen, Yakubu 79, Cahill 90); Fulham 0 Wolves 0; Man City 0 Man Utd 1 (Scholes 90); Stoke 1 (Kitson 13) Bolton 2 (Taylor 85, 88); Sunderland 2 (Campbell 25, Bent 40) Burnley 1 (Thompson 82); Tottenham 2 (Defoe 15-pen, Bale 44) Chelsea 1 (Lampard 90).

Playing today Portsmouth v Aston Villa Wigan v Arsenal Playing tomorrow Liverpool v West Ham English Football League results Championship Blackpool 3 Nottingham Forest 1; Coventry 1 Preston 1; Derby 1 Crystal Palace 1; Ipswich 1 Doncaster 1; Leicester 4 Watford 1; QPR 0 Cardiff 1; Reading 6 Peterborough 0; Scunthorpe 3 Bristol City 0; Swansea 3 Barnsley 1.

Playing later West Brom v Middlesbrough Playing today Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield Utd Playing tomorrow Plymouth v Newcastle Division One Bristol Rovers 0 Brentford 0; Carlisle 1 Oldham 2; Charlton 0 Norwich 1; Gillingham 3 Leeds 2; Hartlepool 3 Colchester 1; Leyton Orient 2 Stockport 0; Milton Keynes Dons 2 Wycombe 3; Southend 0 Brighton 1; Swindon 1 Walsall 1; Tranmere 3 Exeter 1; Yeovil 0 Southampton 1.

Division Two Accrington 1 Hereford 2; Aldershot 1 Crewe 1; Bournemouth 2 Darlington 0; Bradford 2 Barnet 1; Bury 1 Port Vale 1; Dagenham and Redbridge 2 Burton 1; Grimsby 0 Torquay 3; Macclesfield 2 Chesterfield 0; Notts County 4 Morecambe 1; Rochdale 1 Northampton 0; Rotherham 0 Cheltenham 0; Shrewsbury 1 Lincoln 0.

Scottish Premier League results Aberdeen 1 (MacLean 11) Falkirk 0; Celtic 3 (Keane 4, Fortune 80, Rasmussen 87) Hibernian 2 (Riordan 6, Stokes 54-pen); Hamilton 3 (Imrie 72, F.Paixao 77, Thomas 87) Kilmarnock 0; St Johnstone 2 (Duberry 79, Sheerin 90-pen) St Mirren 2 (Carey 33, Dorman 50).

Playing today Motherwell v Dundee Utd; Rangers v Hearts Scottish Football League results First Division Airdrie 1 Ross County 1; Inverness CT 2 Dunfermline 0; Morton 2 Dundee 2; Partick 0 Ayr 1; Queen of the South 3 Raith 0.

Second Division Alloa 1 Dumbarton 2; Arbroath 1 Cowdenbeath 1; Brechin 1 East Fife 0; Clyde 3 Peterhead 1; Stenhousemuir 1 Stirling 3.

Third Division Albion 1 Queen’s Park 0; Annan Athletic 3 Stranraer 2; Elgin City 0 East Stirling 1; Forfar 2 Montrose 0; Livingston 0 Berwick 0.

German League results VfB Stuttgart 2 (Cacau 29, 85) Bayer Leverkusen 1 (Kiessling 13); VfL Wolfsburg 2 (Dzeko 18, Grafite 40) Werder Bremen 4 (Frings 38-pen, 62, Pizarro 49, Almeida 75); Schalke 04 3 (Rakitic 8, 47-pen, Farfan 45) Borussia M’gladbach 1 (Bobadilla 16); Hamburg 0 Mainz 05 1 (Bance 20); Freiburg 2 (Maroh 4-og, Cisse 60) Nuremberg 1 (Maroh 79); Bayern Munich v Hanover 96 - late kick-off.

Playing today Borussia Dortmund v Hoffenheim; Eintracht Frankfurt v Hertha Berlin.

Played Friday Cologne 2 (Tosic 15, 78) VfL Bochum 0

Spanish League results Sevilla 3 (Kanoute 7, Fabiano 53, Cala 84) Sporting Gijon 0; Espanyol 0 Barcelona 0 Playing later Villarreal v Atletico Madrid.

Playing today Tenerife v Getafe, Malaga v Valladolid, Xerez v Racing Santander, Deportivo La Coruna v Almeria, Athletic Bilbao v Real Zaragoza, Real Madrid v Valencia.

Italian Serie A results Chievo 2 (Pellissier 28, Abbruscato 88) Livorno 0 Playing today: Atalanta v Fiorentina, Bari v Napoli, Cagliari v Palermo, Catania v Siena, Lazio v Roma, Parma v Genoa, Sampdoria v AC Milan, Udinese v Bologna

English Premier League table English Premier League table after Saturday’s matches (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points): Chelsea 35 24 5 6 86 32 77 Man Utd 35 24 4 7 78 27 76 Arsenal 34 22 5 7 76 36 71 Tottenham 34 19 7 8 62 34 64 Man City 34 17 11 6 69 42 62 Liverpool 34 16 8 10 54 33 56 Aston Villa 33 14 13 6 46 34 55 Everton 35 14 12 9 57 48 54 Birmingham 35 12 11 12 35 43 47 Fulham 34 11 10 13 35 37 43 Stoke 34 10 13 11 33 37 43 Blackburn 35 11 10 14 37 53 43 Sunderland 35 10 11 14 46 53 41 Bolton 35 9 8 18 38 63 35 W’hampton 35 8 10 17 28 51 34 Wigan 34 8 8 18 30 64 32 West Ham 34 7 10 17 41 57 31 Hull 34 6 10 18 32 70 28 Burnley 35 7 6 22 37 74 27 Portsmouth 34 6 6 22 28 6015 — relegated Note: Portsmouth deducted 9 points for entering administration English Football League tables Championship Newcastle 43 28 11 4 85 3395 — promoted West Brom 43 25 11 7 85 4686 — promoted Nottingham 44 21 12 11 60 38 75 Cardiff 44 21 10 13 70 50 73 Leicester 44 19 13 12 58 45 70 Swansea 44 17 17 10 40 35 68 Blackpool 44 18 12 14 72 57 66 M’brough 43 16 13 14 57 45 61 Reading 43 16 11 16 62 57 59 Bristol City 44 14 17 13 53 63 59 Sheffield Utd 43 15 13 15 56 54 58 Doncaster 44 14 14 16 55 55 56 Ipswich 44 12 19 13 48 56 55 Preston 44 13 15 16 57 68 54 Derby 44 14 11 19 50 61 53 Coventry 44 13 14 17 46 59 53 Barnsley 44 14 11 19 52 67 53 QPR 43 12 15 16 56 64 51 Scunthorpe 43 14 8 21 55 76 50 Watford 43 12 12 19 54 67 48 Crystal Palace 44 14 15 15 47 50 47 Sheffield 43 11 12 20 44 63 45 Plymouth 43 11 8 24 42 61 41 Peterborough 44 7 10 27 44 7831 — relegated Note: Crystal Palace deducted 10 points for entering administration Division One Norwich 43 27 8 8 84 4589 — promoted Leeds 43 23 11 9 71 41 80 Millwall 43 22 13 8 71 39 79 Swindon 43 21 15 7 66 50 78 Charlton 43 21 14 8 67 47 77 Huddersfield 43 21 11 11 73 53 74 Colchester 43 19 11 13 61 49 68 Southampton 42 21 13 8 78 42 66 Bristol Rovers 43 19 5 19 57 63 62 Keynes 43 17 8 18 58 62 59 Brentford 42 13 18 11 50 47 57 Walsall 43 14 13 16 54 60 55 Carlisle 43 14 12 17 58 62 54 Brighton 43 13 13 17 53 59 52 Hartlepool 43 14 9 20 57 63 51 Oldham 42 13 11 18 37 50 50 Yeovil 43 12 13 18 51 57 49 Leyton Orient 43 12 12 19 50 60 48 Gillingham 43 11 14 18 46 58 47 Exeter 43 10 16 17 44 57 46 Tranmere 42 12 8 22 38 69 44 Wycombe 43 9 14 20 51 72 41 Southend 43 9 12 22 46 66 39 Stockport 43 5 10 28 34 8425 — relegated Note: Southampton deducted 10 points for entering administration Division Two Notts County 41 24 11 6 84 2983 — promoted Rochdale 42 25 7 10 80 4282 — promoted Bournemouth 43 23 8 12 54 42 77 Rotherham 43 20 9 14 54 49 69 Bury 43 19 11 13 53 54 68 Aldershot 43 18 12 13 64 53 66 Dagenham 43 18 12 13 65 56 66 Chesterfield 43 20 6 17 58 58 66 Port Vale 43 16 16 11 58 44 64 Morecambe 43 17 13 13 68 62 64 Northampton 43 17 12 14 59 50 63 Shrewsbury 43 17 11 15 52 48 62 Burton Albion 43 15 11 17 66 68 56 Bradford 43 14 13 16 55 61 55 Accrington 42 16 6 20 57 68 54 Macclesfield 43 12 17 14 49 55 53 Hereford 43 15 8 20 48 62 53 Crewe 43 14 9 20 63 71 51 Torquay 43 12 14 17 60 55 50 Cheltenham 42 10 16 16 49 60 46 Lincoln City 43 12 10 21 40 62 46 Barnet 42 11 12 19 46 59 45 Grimsby 43 7 17 19 41 68 38 Darlington 41 7 5 29 28 75 26 Scottish Premier League table Rangers 33 23 8 2 73 22 77 Celtic 34 21 6 7 65 37 69 Dundee Utd 33 16 11 6 51 39 59 Hibernian 34 14 8 12 49 46 50 Motherwell 33 12 12 9 39 38 48 Hearts 33 12 8 13 32 39 44 St Johnstone 34 11 9 14 52 56 42 Hamilton 34 10 9 15 32 43 39

Aberdeen 34 9 10 15 St Mirren 34 6 11 17 Kilmarnock 34 7 8 19 Falkirk 34 6 10 18 Scottish Football League tables First Division Inverness CT 34 19 10 5 Dundee 33 15 13 5 Dunfermline 34 15 7 12 Queens 32 14 9 9 Ross County 31 13 11 7 Partick 33 12 5 16 Raith 30 9 7 14 Morton 33 10 4 19 Ayr 32 7 10 15 Airdrie Utd 32 6 8 18 Second Division Alloa 34 18 8 8 Stirling 32 16 9 7 Cowdenbeath 32 15 9 8 Brechin 33 15 7 11 Dumbarton 34 14 6 14 Peterhead 34 14 5 15 East Fife 34 10 9 15 Stenhousemuir34 9 11 14 Arbroath 34 9 9 16 Clyde 33 7 7 19 Third Division Livingston 33 21 6 6 Forfar 33 17 8 8 East Stirling 34 18 4 12 Queens Park 33 14 5 14 Berwick 34 13 8 13 Albion 32 12 10 10 Athletic 34 11 10 13 Stranraer 32 11 7 14 Elgin 33 7 7 19 Montrose 34 5 9 20 Spanish League table Barcelona 33 26 6 1 Real Madrid 32 26 2 4 Valencia 32 17 8 7 Sevilla 33 16 6 11 Mallorca 32 15 7 10 Bilbao 32 14 6 12 Getafe 32 14 5 13 Villarreal 32 13 7 12 Deportivo 32 12 7 13 Atletico 32 11 7 14 Osasuna 32 10 8 14 Espanyol 33 9 11 13 Almeria 32 9 10 13 Sporting 33 9 10 14 Racing 32 8 11 13 Zaragoza 32 8 9 15 Malaga 32 7 11 14 Tenerife 32 7 8 17 Valladolid 32 5 13 14 Xerez 32 6 8 18 Italian Serie A table Inter Milan 34 20 10 4 Roma 33 20 8 5 AC Milan 33 18 10 5 Palermo 33 15 9 9 Sampdoria 33 15 9 9 Juventus 34 15 6 13 Napoli 33 12 13 8 Fiorentina 33 13 7 13 Parma 33 12 10 11 Genoa 33 12 9 12 Bari 33 11 10 12 Chievo 34 11 8 15 Cagliari 33 11 7 15 Catania 33 9 12 12 Udinese 33 10 8 15 Lazio 33 8 13 12 Bologna 33 9 8 16 Atalanta 33 8 7 18 Siena 33 7 8 18 Livorno 34 6 8 20

32 34 26 30

46 47 47 55

37 29 29 28

64 46 49 50 41 40 31 36 27 34

32 32 43 37 36 39 43 58 46 52

67 58 52 51 50 41 34 34 31 26

46 61 49 46 47 42 43 36 37 32

32 43 32 37 52 48 50 40 53 52

62 57 54 52 48 47 39 38 36 28

55 56 47 40 44 33 40 43 38 28

25 41 44 40 48 31 38 50 54 53

69 59 58 47 47 46 43 40 28 24

19 29 35 38 37 44 40 44 42 50 37 40 45 44 46 56 42 61 54 54

84 80 59 54 52 48 47 46 43 40 38 38 37 37 35 33 32 29 28 26

30 36 33 41 38 49 40 39 41 53 41 34 51 38 49 36 50 44 57 52

70 68 64 54 54 51 49 46 46 45 43 41 40 39 38 37 35 31 29 26

80 85 52 49 50 45 46 46 33 48 30 26 34 33 34 38 37 31 32 28 65 59 54 49 41 49 44 46 35 52 40 31 50 38 43 31 36 32 35 22

Todayʼs matches on TV (local timings) English Premier League Wigan v Arsenal.................................15:30 ShowSports 1 ShowSports 2 Portsmouth v Aston Villa...................18:00 ShowSports 1 Spanish League Zerez v Racing..................................18:00 Al Jazeera Sport +4 Bilbao v Zaragoza...............................20:00 Al Jazeera Sport +2 Real Madrid v Valencia.......................22:00 Al Jazeera Sport +3 Italian League Sampdoria v AC Milan........................16:00 Al Jazeera Sport +1 Galiari v Palermo...............................16:00 Al Jazeera Sport +4 Bari v Napoli ....................................16:00 Al Jazeera Sports +7 Lazio v AS Roma................................19:30 Al Jazeera Sport +1

Hull 0

Hull grab rare away point

SPAIN: FC Barcelona’s Lionel Messi from Argentina (center) duels for the ball with RCD Espanyol’s Nicolas Pareja from Argentina (right) Juan Forlin from Argentina (second left) and Jose Raul Baena Urdiales during their Spanish League soccer match.—AP

Toothless Barca fire blanks MADRID: Champions Barcelona let Real Madrid firmly back into La Liga title race following a 0-0 draw at neighbors Espanyol yesterday meaning Madrid can move to within one point of their rivals with a home win over Valencia today.

Barca had Brazilian full back Dani Alves sent off on the hour mark and the treble winners failed to score in the league for the first time in six months and Real can now chop their four-point lead down to just one point.

It was the first derby at Espanyol’s Cornella El-Prat Stadium and a bad one for Barcelona who saw a run of seven straight wins come to an end as they failed to find the back of the net in La Liga for the first time since a 0-0 draw at Valencia on October 17.

Coach Pep Guardiola will hope the draw is just a blip as his side - who have beaten Real twice this season - look to get over the finishing line with just five games left in the season.

Barcelona have a huge game now on Tuesday in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final against Inter Milan at the San Siro.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic was back on the Barca substitutes bench after missing the last four games through injury and with no recognised target-man Lionel Messi played

down the middle.

Barca hit the crossbar in the eighth minute with Pedro’s mis-hit cross crashing off the top of the woodwork to safety. Pedro had scored in his last two league matches but it was clear that he was not going for a goal on this occasion.

Forward Pablo Osvaldo had a chance for the hosts but shot over when well placed and Joan Verdu glanced a header wide on 26 minutes.

Barca were not at the races in the first half and goalkeeper Victor Valdes pulled off a fine stop just before half-time to keep the scores level.

A cross from the left found Osvaldo in the penalty area but the striker’s side-footed effort was pushed on to the post brilliantly

by Valdes.

Valdes has been in excellent form this season to help Barca have the best defensive record in the league and prompt calls for a Spain call-up ahead of this summer’s World Cup. On 55 minutes Barca boss Pep Guardiola brought on Seydou Keita and Thierry Henry to inject some attacking threat but five minutes later the champions were reduced to ten men.

Alves pulled down Jose Callejon close to the half-way line to pick up a second yellow card and leave Barcelona with one man less.

The extra man didn’t help Espanyol too much but Barcelona were impotent going forward with Espanyol goalkeeper Kameni not making a notable save in the entire match.

Ibrahimovic came on late but a curling effort from Messi was the closest the visitors came to an unlikely win.

Elsewhere Sevilla climbed up to fourth with a comfortable 3-0 home win over nine man Sporting Gijon yesterday taking them two points above Real Mallorca in the Champions League race.

Sevilla had lost to lowly Valladolid on Tuesday but bounced back with an early goal from Mali international forward Frederic Kanoute putting them ahead before Luis Fabiano and Juan Cala scored second half goals to push Sevilla into fourth.

Mallorca, two points behind in fifth, can go back into fourth place with a home victory over Osasuna on Monday.

Later yesterday Atletico Madrid prepare for Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg against Liverpool with a tricky match at Villarreal.

Atletico lost at home to bottom side Xerez in midweek to fall eight points off the top six. Villarreal are two points off the final European spot and would end Atletico’s faint hopes with a win at El Madrigal.—AFP

BIRMINGHAM: Hull’s bid to stay in the Premier League received a boost yesterday with a precious point in a goalless draw at Birmingham.

Hull manager Iain Dowie had demanded a response in the battle to avoid the drop after the Tigers had been beaten 4-1 at home by fellow strugglers Burnley last weekend.

But they were far more resolute against the Blues in picking up a rare clean sheet and only their fifth away point of the campaign.

It was all the more meritorious given that Birmingham are unbeaten at home since September and have not been beaten by any of the current top six in front of their own supporters.

Hull remain in the bottom three but will be looking to capitalise on having three of their remaining four games at home if they are to survive the drop.

Dowie had reminded his squad of their responsibilities to the club and the area and was satisfied with “a display to be proud of”.

He said: “You have to be careful not to over-react at times. No one was more angry, frustrated or fuming at the end of the Burnley game than me after our secondhalf performance.

“I had a conversation this week with the players, ramming home what Premier League survival means to the area, the people who work at the club, and the fans.

“I asked for a response in training, then I wanted a positive performance today - and I got it.

There weren’t many chances but I thought we shaded it in terms of opportunities.

“It is a working-class area and people demand the lads put a shift in and you saw that today. Against Burley in the second half we didn’t do that enough. That is the minimum we require.

“We got the response and we will see how important that point is at the end of the season. But given Birmingham’s home record, it was a display to be proud of.”—AFP

Celtic defeat Hibs to delay Ibrox title party GLASGOW: Celtic scored two goals in the last 10 minutes to stun Hibernian 3-2 at Parkhead yesterday to delay a potential title party for arch rivals Rangers at Ibrox.

Neil Lennon’s 100 per cent league record since he took over as caretaker was under threat after a superb strike from Derek Riordan and a controversial Anthony Stokes penalty had cancelled out Robbie Keane’s early opener.

However substitute Morten Rasmussen popped up three minutes from time to seal a remarkable comeback after Marc-Antoine Fortune had tapped in an 80th minute equaliser.

Rangers, who host Hearts at Ibrox today, are now eight points clear of the Hoops at the top of the Scottish Premier League and need five points from their remaining five matches to clinch a second successive title.

Lennon said it was the type of performance Celtic should have shown in their Scottish Cup semi-final defeat to Ross County last week.

“I thought we deserved to win but we missed

Marseille on title track PARIS: Nigerian left-back Taye Taiwo converted a high-pressure injury-time penalty to give Marseille a 2-1 win at Boulogne-sur-Mer yesterday that keeps them on course for the French title.

Mathieu Valbuena had given the visitors a 1-0 half-time lead but second-bottom Boulogne hit back in the 82nd minute when substitute Jeremy Blayac volleyed in from close-range after Damien Marcq beat Brandao in the air.

With second-placed Auxerre beating Lorient, Marseille were facing up to the reality of seeing their lead at the top cut from five points to three when Yoann Lachor was penalised for handball inside the Boulogne penalty area.

Referee Pascal Vileo awarded a spotkick and Taiwo held his nerve to sweep the ball inside the right-hand post and keep his side five points clear with five games remaining.

Auxerre defeated Lorient 4-1 to stay in the title picture and dent the visitors’ hopes of snatching a European place in the final standings.

A pair of goals 82 seconds apart from Dennis Oliech and Ireneusz Jelen set Auxerre on their way 10 minutes before the break and further goals in the second half from Valter Birsa and Cedric Hengbart put the game out of sight. Kevin Gameiro replied in the 81st minute for Lorient, who finished the game with nine men after Jeremy Morel and goalkeeper Fabien Audard were both sent off in the second period. —AFP

too many chances and that is symptomatic of our season,” said Lennon.

“There were big performances from big players today and they got what they deserved.” John Hughes felt his side had sat back after going 2-1 ahead. “To be 2-1 up with ten minutes to go at Parkhead, there is a real disappointment that we never took something from the football match,” the Hibs boss said.

Celtic made two changes with Artur Boruc returning in goal for the first time since the death of his father while Fortune came in for Diomansy Kamara.

After drawing a blank in his previous two matches on-loan Tottenham striker Keane was quick to get off the mark in the fourth minute to make it 13 goals in 15 matches.

A misplaced pass from Darren McCormack was intercepted by Aiden McGeady and his cross from the left was sidefooted home from six yards

by Keane.

Celtic have struggled defensively all season and former player Riordan exposed their frailties just two minutes later. Stokes laid the ball off to Riordan who arrowed a superb strike into the bottom left-hand corner of the net from 20 yards.

Stokes was involved again when he cut a ball across the six-yard box for Colin Nish but he mishit his effort and Celtic cleared the danger.

McGeady twisted and turned in the box before lofting a high pass to the back post where Fortune somehow managed to head over the bar from four yards out. Fortune and Keane both came close as an entertaining first-half came to an end. Celtic started the second-half strongly with Thompson heading over McGinn’s corner and Fortune smacking a shot from an acute angle off the post.

However it was Hibs who took the lead in controversial circumstances when they were awarded what looked a soft penalty in the 54th minute as Thompson connected with Stokes as he attempted to boot the ball clear.

The striker took the resultant kick and despite Boruc going the right way he tucked the ball into the bottom right-hand corner of the net.

Celtic, already dealing with a central defender injury crisis, were dealt another blow when Darren O’Dea hobbled off to be replaced by Andreas Hinkel.

However Fortune’s 80th minute equaliser helped make amends. Stack made a great pointblank save from Keane as he connected with McGeady’s cross but the ball fell to Fortune for a simple tap-in. Rasmussen sealed the remarkable comeback when he slid in to turn Fortune’s cross from the right past Stack with three minutes remaining. Elsewhere Aberdeen defeated bottom placed Falkirk 1-0, Hamilton thrashed Kilmarnock 3-0 while St Johnstone came from two behind to draw 2-2 with St Mirren.—AFP

GERMANY: Schalke’s Kevin Kuranyi celebrates after winning the German First Division Bundesliga soccer match between FC Schalke 04 and Borussia Moenchengladbach.—AP

Rakitic double puts Schalke in top spot BERLIN: Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic netted twice to put Schalke 04 top of the Bundesliga in a 3-1 win over Moenchengladbach yesterday, but Bayern Munich can retake the lead if they beat Hanover later.

Champions League semifinalists Bayern host Hanover at Munich’s Allianz Arena on Saturday night, but Schalke kept up the pressure as Rakitic opened the scoring on eight minutes and then later converted a penalty.

Gladbach’s Argentina striker Raul Bobadilla had equalised on 16 minutes, but Peru striker Jefferson Farfan made it 2-1 just before half-time before Rakitic hit a second-half penalty to put his side a point clear.

“We played very well in the first-half, but ‘Gladbach put us under pressure with some good counter-attacking,” said Schalke coach Felix Magath, whose side are bidding for their first Bundesliga title.

“We played at a high tempo and deserved the win.” Tenman Bayer Leverkusen are virtually out of the title race after they were beaten 2-1 at Stuttgart with striker Stefan

Kiessling netting for Bayer before Germany team-mate Cacau scored twice for the hosts.

Leverkusen were reduced to ten men after Swiss midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta was dismissed after just 19 minutes for a second dangerous foul and having equalised Cacau smashed home the long-range winner on 85 minutes.

The result dumped Leverkusen down to fourth, seven points behind Schalke with just three games left this season.

Werder Bremen went third as midfielder Torsten Frings gave Germany coach Joachim Loew a timely reminder of his talents with two goals in his side’s 4-2 victory at Wolfsburg.

Frings was dropped from the Germany squad in October 2008, but could yet earn himself a reprieve with the national squad set to be named on May 6.

The league’s top-scorer Edin Dzeko scored his 20th goal of the season on 18 minutes before Frings then netted a 38thminute penalty after Bremen’s Marko Marin was fouled in the area, but Grafite put Wolfsburg 2-1 up at the break.—AFP

SPORTS

Sunday, April 18, 2010

19

Nadal destroys Ferrer CHINA: Red Bull Formula One driver Sebastian Vettel of Germany takes a corner during qualifying for the Chinese Formula One Grand Prix at the Shanghai International Circuit. —AP

Vettel puts Red Bull on pole SHANGHAI: Sebastian Vettel gave Red Bull their fourth pole position in four races with a searing late lap in qualifying for the Chinese Grand Prix yesterday.

The German clocked one minute 34.558 seconds to pip team mate Mark Webber with his final lap and claim his third pole position of the year-the eighth of his career-and justify his position as favourite in Shanghai.

“It was a fantastic lap,” the 22-year-old told reporters.

“Fourth consecutive pole position for Red Bull, we have proved that we have a very fast car. But we’ll see tomorrow, it could be wet ...”

Vettel led Australian Webber to a Red Bull one-two in the last race in Malaysia as well as in the Shanghai rain last year and he will take the lead in the drivers’ championship with victory on Sunday.

While continuing one run of form, Vettel will have to break another to triumph however: None of the last five races have been won by the driver on pole.

“It was a good battle again

between both of us,” said Webber, who took pole in Malaysia only to be passed by Vettel on the first corner.

“It was definitely a good lap

by Seb, I was very happy with my lap. Credit to the team, we’ve locked down the front row again.”

Twice world champion Fernando Alonso of Spain was third quickest for Ferrari and will line up alongside the Mercedes of German Nico Rosberg, again quicker than team mate Michael Schumacher, on the second row of the grid.

“Once again this was our maximum potential in qualifying, we know that the race pace is better for us,” said Alonso, who was also third on the grid in the first two races of the season and won in Bahrain.

“But in a normal situation, this is the maximum we can do at the moment.”

Briton Lewis Hamilton led for most of qualifying but was slower in the decisive third session and had to settle for a place on the third row of the grid alongside his McLaren team mate and world champion

Jenson Button, who was fifth quickest.

Button has now out-qualified Hamilton in three of the season’s four races so far. “We were doing so well ... It was quite easy to be up at the front,” Hamilton, the 2008 world champion, said.

“I really don’t understand what was wrong with the car in Q3, but I wasn’t able to get anymore time out of it. That was me on the limit.”

Championship leader Felipe Massa of Brazil was seventh fastest for Ferrari ahead of Poland’s Robert Kubica, who was again impressively quick for Renault to edge seventimes world champion Schumacher into ninth place for Mercedes.

On a cool but sunny Shanghai day, there was never the prospect of the torrential downpour that ruined McLaren and Ferrari’s qualifying last time out in Malaysia.

Rain is, however, forecast for Sunday. “Tomorrow’s race will be determined by the weather,” said Alonso. “In those kind of races anyone can win.” —Reuters

MONTE CARLO: Rafael Nadal left no doubt that he would be the overwhelming favourite at next month’s French Open after crushing fellow Spaniard David Ferrer 6-2 63 in the Monte Carlo Masters semi-finals yesterday.

Nadal, gunning for a record sixth consecutive title in the glitzy principality, will face compatriot Fernando Verdasco or world number two Novak Djokovic of Serbia in today’s final. The four-times French Open champion, who has not won an ATP title in the last 11 months, was again in a class of his own on the Monte Carlo clay.

After needing just 75 minutes to dismiss Ferrer, Nadal took the time to sign a few balls and fire them into the delighted crowd as the first sunbeams pierced through on a mostly cloudy day at the Monte Carlo Country Club.

The Mallorcan, who lost his first French Open match in the fourth round last year, lost the first game to love. He then saved a break point in the second game before turning on the engine and racing to a 5-1 lead, with Ferrer unable to control his opponent’s devastating forehand. Nadal even seemed to feel sorry for Ferrer, apologising to his compatriot after clinching the sixth game with a delightful backhand lob. Grunting in agony, Ferrer won the seventh game to love but conceded the opening set as he sent a backhand long. The 11th seed smashed his racket onto his foot twice in frustration after he failed to capitalise on a Nadal weak moment in the second game of the second set.

Ferrer triggered a loud roar from the full capacity crowd when he broke back for 2-2, but the feat took too much out of the world number 17. As the clock ticked onto the hour, Nadal reclaimed his advantage with a jaw-dropping forehand winner down the line.

Ferrer flagged at that point, serving a couple of double faults in the seventh game to give the claycourt master a 5-2 lead.

In his final throes of agony, Ferrer pulled a break back but bowed out on his own serve, netting a routine forehand on the second match point. Nadal gave his opponent a quick round of applause after throwing his headband into the stands where flamboyant former Renault Formula One team boss Flavio Briatore was sitting. —Reuters

Hamilton baffled by fuss over his driving ISTANBUL: Sebastien Loeb of France and his co-driver Daniel Elena of Monaco drive their Citroen C4 WRC on the second day of the Rally of Turkey during the FIA World Rally Championship on the Asian side of Istanbul. —AP

Loeb leads Rally of Turkey ISTANBUL: French reigning champion Sebastien Loeb led Citroen C4 team-mate Petter Solberg and Ford Focus driver Mikko Hirvonen after the eight special stages on the second day of the Rally of Turkey yesterday.

Meanwhile, David Richards, the man whose cars helped the late Colin McRae and Richard Burns to conquer the rally world, has big plans to put Britain back in the driving seat after years of French domination.

While Citroen’s Sebastien Loeb has won the last six titles, and looks a good bet for a seventh, Richards believes his Prodrive company could give the Frenchman a run for his money next season.

“I have no doubt whatsoever, we will be competitive from day one,” the 57-year-old Briton told Reuters in an interview on Friday, a day after Prodrive ruled out seeking an entry to Formula One for next year and set their sights firmly on a return to the rally world championship.

The company used to run Subaru’s world rally team and won drivers’ championships in 1995 with McRae and 2001 with Burns as well as in 2003 with Norway’s Petter Solberg.

Both Britons died tragically young, McRae in a helicopter accident at his Scottish home in 2007 and Englishman Burns of a brain tumor in 2005.

Since their departure, and despite a healthy number of fans still prepared to brave the winter cold to stand on exposed Welsh hillsides and in forest

clearings for a glimpse of a mudspattered car, media coverage in Britain has evaporated.

Matthew Wilson, son of Ford team boss Malcolm, is Britain’s sole full-time driver at the top level at present but has yet to become a winner.

“We’ve been through a bit of a lull if you like and gone through the doldrums for a couple of years, as all sports do and all championships do over periods of time, you lose the individuals and personalities,” said Richards, a championship winning co-driver with Finland’s Ari Vatanen in 1981.

“In this country it’s been worse than ever...but on the other hand countries like France have seen enormous resurgence and interest in the world rally championship, ahead of Formula One,” he added.

“I am now on the look-out for a top British driver and the hope is that we will bring the awareness of the world rally championship back to the British public again over the next three years.”

Northern Ireland’s Kris Meeke, a 30-year-old former protege of McRae’s and reigning champion in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) series, is likely to be a frontrunner.

Richards said he had spoken to Meeke and had a lot of time for him, describing him as “an intelligent young guy who has served his apprenticeship.”

“Colin made me aware of Kris many years ago,” he added.

Richards would not say who his manufacturer partner would be, with Subaru quitting at the end

of 2008 due to the global financial crisis, and suggested an announcement was still some months away.

“It’s still an open issue, we have been in discussion with three major manufacturers about this project but we do have our favoured partner,” he said.

There has however been strong speculation in the rally world that Prodrive will team up with BMW to bring back the iconic Mini brand-rolling back the years to when Northern Irishman Paddy Hopkirk won the 1964 Monte Carlo Rally in a Mini Cooper.

Richards, a former BAR and Benetton team boss in Formula One, made clear that rallying was now a far more attractive proposition.

He said Jean Todt, the new president of the governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) and a former rally co-driver, was committed to the success of the series while new regulations would also help.

“The whole chassis and body of the car is far more relevant to the latest road cars and the economics of it make more sense,” said Richards, whose company started work on the rally project early last year.

“We have done the most comprehensive analysis and design study that we have ever done in any project we’ve ever been involved with,” he said.

“When it came to July, we then started to throw all the resource behind it and this has ramped up over recent months.” —Reuters

SHANGHAI: Lewis Hamilton has promised not to swerve his Formula One car to shake off pursuing drivers while also declaring himself baffled by the fuss over the tactics he used in the last race.

Asked after qualifying at the Chinese Grand Prix yesterday whether other drivers’ complaints amounted to whingeing, the 2008 world champion told reporters: “You can write that if you want”.

Hamilton weaved in front of Renault’s Russian rookie Vitaly Petrov two weeks ago in Malaysia, a defensive move for which he received a warning.

Several rivals said the swerving was dangerous and, in the drivers’ meeting at the Chinese Grand Prix on Friday, demanded clarification about whether it was against the rules. Hamilton said F1 race director Charlie Whiting had already set the record straight.

“He gave us a warning for that not to happen again. I discussed it with him,” the McLaren driver said. “He made it clear that’s not what he wants to see and so we just don’t do that again. Lesson learned and we move forward.” Hamilton added he was unsure why the drivers had made a big deal of it on Friday.

“I didn’t understand why everybody was fussing about it but it wasn’t really much of a problem for me,” said the Briton. “They seemed to be talking about it for some time.”

Jenson Button, his team mate and reigning world champion, interjected to say: “I think it was clarification, wasn’t it?”

Hamilton agreed, saying: “Yes, it is just with the ruling of how many times you can move when defending. “It’s not that clear in what is called defending and breaking the tow. That’s not made clear.”

The Briton, who has produced superb drives to earn two sixth places in the last two races, will have his work cut again today. —Reuters

MONACO: Rafael Nadal of Spain plays a return to David Ferrer of Spain during the semifinal match of the Monte Carlo Tennis Masters tournament. —AP

Caroline reaches semis in Charleston CHARLESTON: Top-seeded Caroline Wozniacki advanced to the semifinals of the Family Circle Cup with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Nadia Petrova on Friday, while secondseeded Jelena Jankovic was upset by Daniela Hantuchova.

Wozniacki next faces Vera Zvonareva, who defeated American Melanie Oudin 7-5, 6-2 in another quarterfinal later Friday.

Eighth-seeded Hantuchova faces Australia’s Samantha Stosur, a 6-4, 6-1 winner over Peng Shuai of China, in Saturday’s other semifinal.

“I feel like I’m playing very well,” said Wozniacki, who won the title last week at Ponte Verde Beach, Florida. “I’m very confident, and I’ve got some good results with my play.” Former champion Jankovic

breezed through the first set of her match, winning the first three games before Hantuchova broke her in the fourth. But Jankovic went down 0-4 to open the second set and never recovered in a 1-6, 6-3, 6-3 loss.

“I played really well in the first set and I played really aggressive,” said Jankovic, ranked No. 7. “But then I just stopped and I especially had trouble hitting my backhand.”

It was Hantuchova’s first win against a top 10 player in three years.

“Definitely, I felt very good on the court today, even though the first set was not easy,” Hantuchova said. She decided to change her game after losing the first set. “I tried to put a little more on the ball, move her a little more around and stay more

aggressive, and that made the difference,” said the 24th-ranked Slovakian. Stosur trailed 3-4 in the first set against the unseeded Peng.

“I got that break down, and on that change of ends I thought I had to step it up a gear and not play so many straight through the middle and give her a chance to hit it,” Stosur said.

During the evening match on stadium court, Zvonareva had to deal with a raucous partisan crowd cheering for Oudin. But they quieted after the Russian won the first set and quickly jumped to a 4-0 lead in the second. “It was pretty tough out there,” Zvonareva said. “I’m sure next time we’re going to be playing in Moscow and everyone is going to support me.” —AP

www.kuwaittimes.net

Scholes uses his head to keep United in title race

Blackburn 2

Everton 3

Cahill keeps Everton’s European dream alive LONDON: Australia star Tim Cahill’s late goal gave Ever ton a 3-2 win over Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park here yesterday which kept his side in the hunt for European football next season.

Cahill scored in the 90th minute adding to goals for the visitors from Mikel Arteta and Ayegbeni Yakubu after Blackburn had pegged them back twice through Steven Nzonzi and Jason Roberts.

Victor y kept Ever ton eighth in the Premier League and in sight of a spot in next ter m’s Europa L eague. Rovers thought they had secured a point when Roberts volleyed in after taking a looping pass from Nikola Kalinic in the 81st minute to make it 2-2.

Roberts’s goal came just three minutes after Yakubu made it 2-1 for Ever ton.

Yakubu came on for defender Tony Hibbert in the 78th minute and, seconds later, collected a header from fellow substitute Victor Anichebe to head past Paul Robinson.

Ever ton had the early lead through Ar teta, who ended Blackburn’s threematch run of clean sheets with a penalty in just the fourth minute.

But Blackburn levelled in the 69th minute through Nzonzi, who scored only his second goal of the season with a spectacular longrange curling shot in an absorbing game between two of the founding members of the Football League who first met in 1888.

Playing his first match af ter nearly a month out injured, Arteta was tripped in the box in the four th minute by Blackburn captain Ryan Nelsen and referee Andre Marriner pointed to the spot.

It was Arteta’s fifth goal in as many games - this was his first match since scoring in the 2-0 win over Manchester City on April 24 after missing three fixtures with a groin injury.

Arteta was also the centre of attention for the wrong reasons when he poked his finger into Morten Gamst Pedersen’s cheek, then eye when the two squared off af ter the Blackbur n midfielder had tackled Arteta to concede a 20th minute free-kick.

The Everton midfielder was lucky to avoid being sent off - instead he was shown a yellow card by Marriner, as was Pedersen.

Blackbur n missed the chance to level in the 12th minute, against the run of play, when Cahill cleared a shot from Nikola Kalinic off the line and, in the resultant confusion, Tim Howard saved from Nelsen.

Pedersen also sent a free kick wide and had the resultant cor ner saved as Blackbur n grew in confidence.

But Ever ton hit back af ter the break and went close when L eighton Baines’s power ful, 69th minute, shot bounced off the post before Blackbur n caught the Toffees napping and the game sprang into life.

Ever ton’s victor y condemned Blackburn to a first home league defeat since December and continued an impressive revival for the Merseysdiers, who were just two points above the relegation zone before Christmas.

Their lack of attacking bite led Everton to draws in their last three games. against Aston Villa, West Ham and Wolves. However, Ar teta’s retur n seems to have changed that. —AFP

Man City 0

Man United 1

LONDON: Tottenham Hotspur’s Heyrelho Gomes celebrates as his team score against Chelsea during their English Premier League soccer match at the White Hart Lane stadium. —AP

Chelsea stunned by Spurs Tottenham 2

Chelsea 1 LONDON: Ten-man Chelsea’s lead at the top of the English Premier League was cut to just one point after they were beaten 2-1 away to London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane here yesterday.

Goals from Jermain Defoe and Gareth Bale allowed second-placed champions Manchester United, who had won 1-0 at Manchester City earlier in the day, to close the gap with three games now remaining for both sides.

Chelsea captain John Terry conceded a penalty and was sent off while striker Didier Drogba played the entire second half seemingly injured.

The win moved Tottenham into fourth place ahead of City, their rivals for a place in the Champions League, with the two teams due to meet each other in Manchester next month.

It was Spurs’s second big win of the week after they beat Arsenal by the same scoreline in Wednesday’s north London derby.

Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti started with Drogba as the only out-and-out forward, dropping Nicolas Anelka to the bench despite his winner against Bolton on Tuesday.

Michael Ballack and Salomon Kalou suffered a sim-

ilar fate as Deco, Joe Cole and Florent Malouda returned.

Tottenham began impressively but had goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes to thank in the seventh minute when he tipped a Malouda drive round a post.

Spurs continued to attack and, after referee Phil Dowd ignored two strong penalty appeals, they were awarded a spot-kick in the 15th minute.

Indeed, the one Dowd did award seemed less clear-cut than the other two as Terry tried to block following a corner. The ball appeared to hit the Chelsea captain on a shoulder rather than an arm but Dowd pointed to the spot.

It was similar to an incident against Bolton Wanderers that had gone Terry’s way in Chelsea’s 1-0 midweek win but luck was not with the England defender on this occasion.

Defoe made no mistake to give Tottenham a deserved lead and it was not long before Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech had to make a fine save to deny Roman Pavlyuchenko on the turn.

Chelsea were forced into a change in midfield as John Obi Mikel limped off in the 33rd minute to be replaced by Ballack.

Malouda thought he had equalised seven minutes before the break but his smart finish from Yuri Zhirkov’s pass was ruled out for offside.

Bale, who also scored against Arsenal then made it 2-0 a minute before the break with a superb solo effort. First the Wales international turned Paulo Ferrera to reach the

edge of the box before beating Cech at his near post with his right foot.

Chelsea almost conjured up an instant reply from Frank Lampard only for Gomes to beat away his volley.

Ancelotti decided to go for broke at the break by sending Anelka and Branislav Ivanovich on for Ferreira and Joe Cole.

He regretted it instantly when Drogba pulled up before the whistle had gone but the striker was able to continue.

Cech kept his side in the game by denying Defoe after Pavlyuchenko had put the England forward clear shortly after the restart.

Tottenham continued to look the side more likely to score and Cech had to make a save at his near post to deny Pavlyuchenko.

Then Terry was booked twice in the space of three minutes, first for fouling Pavlyuchenko and then Bale, to leave Chelsea a man down in the 67th minute.

Chelsea had Cech to thank once again when he reacted in time to tip David Bentley’s clever chip over the bar.

Ivanovic came close to pulling one back late on but Gomes was able to tip over his dipping effort.

Bale might have made it 30 but again Cech saved and the Welshman rolled another chance just wide late on.

Lampard pulled one back in stoppage time, converting a Ballack cross, but it was too late for Chelsea, with Pavlyuchenko missing a simple chance straight after to make it 3-1 to Spurs. —AFP

LONDON: Bolton Wanderers’ Matthew Taylor (third left) beats Stoke City’s Robert Huth to score the winning goal during the English Premier League soccer match at the Britannia Stadium. —AP

Taylor’s double lifts Bolton clear Stoke 1

Bolton 2 STOKE: Bolton all but guaranteed their Premier League survival as two late goals from Matt Taylor clinched a dramatic 2-1 win at Stoke yesterday.

Owen Coyle’s side trailed to an early goal from Dave Kitson but Taylor struck twice in the last five minutes to lift Bolton seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Third bottom Hull would have to win three of their last four matches to catch Wanderers, who look certain to beat the drop.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis opted to leave Matthew Etherington on the bench after the winger suffered a knee injury during the week.

But the hosts were on top from the start and took the

lead in the 13th minute as Tuncay Sanli lofted the ball over the Bolton defence for Kitson to flick past Jussi Jaaskelainen before slotting into the empty net.

Rory Delap caused more problems for Bolton with a trademark long-throw that Robert Huth met with a header which cannoned back off a post and deflected to safety.

Tuncay cleverly won a corner just before the break but Huth was only able to head the resulting set-piece straight at Jaaskelainen.

Coyle tried to inject more urgency into his side’s attack by throwing on striker Ivan Klasnic at half-time. And the visitors had a chance within seconds of the restart when Kevin Davies nodded down Paul Robinson’s free-kick, only for Zat Knight to shoot woefully wide.

Wanderers went closer moments later as Davies squared to Klasnic, who flashed his shot just wide.

Bolton seemed to be growing

in confidence and Matt Taylor and Klasnic tried their luck from long-range before Jack Wilshere, on loan from Arsenal, forced Sorenson into a good save.

Stoke still should have put the game to bed as Etherington surged down the left flank and played the perfect pass for Tuncay, who hit the post from close-range.

Kitson fared even worse as he lifted the rebound over the crossbar.

Those narrow escapes gave Bolton the belief to make one last push and they equalised in the 85th minute af ter substitute Vladimir Weiss was brought down by Dean Whitehead on the edge of the area.

Taylor took full advantage as he rifled the free-kick past Sorenson into the bottom corner. That was the signal for a remarkable finish as Taylor converted a cross from Weiss in the 88th minute to spark wild celebrations among the travelling fans. —AFP

MANCHESTER: Paul Scholes’s 93rd-minute winner settled the Manchester derby at Eastlands here yesterday to give Manchester United a 1-0 victory that kept their title dream alive.

The veteran midfielder rose to meet Patrice Evra’s left-wing cross with 20 seconds remaining of the three minutes of added time and his clinical 12yard header may yet prove costly for Manchester City as they seek fourth place and a first ever taste of Champions League football.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson admitted defeat would have all but ended his side’s hopes of a fourth straight title.

“It (losing) would have made it very difficult,” Ferguson told Sky Sports.

“We deser ved to win the game but I couldn’t see a goal coming. Towards the end, City made a bit of a charge, it got a bit open, the game, and I decided to push Scholesy forward a bit and it paid off. I think he was the man of the match,” Ferguson added. “I thought he was absolutely fantastic.”

Defeat meant City missed the chance to put distance between themselves and Tottenham, their rivals for the fourth-place finish that guarantees a spot in the qualif ying rounds for next season’s Champions League.

“We are very disappointed, we didn’t deserve to lose,” said fr ustrated City manager Roberto Mancini. But this is football.”

The for mer Italy for ward added: “The crucial match will be against Tottenham here (on May 5). We have four games left and we must try to win them.”

The derby’s importance was not lost on both teams, which perhaps explained the slightly cautious first half, particularly from City, who defended extremely deep in an effort to stifle United. The best chances of that opening period both fell to United and came in the final five minutes.

First, Antonio Valencia’s intelligent header into the area wrong-footed the defence and found Wayne Rooney, only for the forward to smash his shot past the post from 15 yards.

Then, with half-time beckoning, Valencia again beat the recalled Wayne Bridge far too easily down the United right and delivered a low, driven nearpost cross that Ryan Giggs poked tamely into the hands of Shay Given.

Those openings aside, firsthalf opportunities were sparse, with Edwin van der Sar required to make the only save of note when he leapt high to his right in the 12th minute to catch a direct Carlos Tevez free-kick, awarded 25 yards from goal after a foul on the Argentine striker

by Darron Gibson.

Rooney, who was passed fit after recovering from the effects of his ankle injury, cut an increasingly frustrated figure.

He frequently argued with referee Martin Atkinson, a controversial late call-up to officiate the game because of his role in the first Manchester derby of the season, in which Michael Owen scored the winning goal in United’s 4-3 victory after six minutes of injury time.

Craig Bellamy wasted a glorious chance on the counter for City, taking a Tevez pass in his stride only to hurry his shot into the side-netting.

At the other end, Giggs was similarly profligate with a wasteful first-time volley from an accurate Valencia cross. But Mancini had seen enough and sent on defensive midfielder Patrick Vieira for Adam Johnson.

Finally the contest began to open up and Evra, substitute Nani and Giggs all had halfchances for United while Gareth Barry and Nigel de Jong threatened the United goal-all in a five-minute period.

United substitute Dimitar Berbatov, on for Rooney, headed inches wide of Given’s covering dive from a Gary Neville cross nine minutes from time.

Then van der Sar mishandled a corner, sparking a furious late scramble in which Vieira and Nedum Onuoha had shots blocked. —AFP

LONDON: Manchester United’s English midfielder Paul Scholes (left) heads the late winning goal past Manchester City’s Irish goalkeeper Shay Given (right) during the English Premier League football match. —AFP

Sunderland push Burnley towards drop Sunderland 2

Burnley 1 SUNDERLAND: Sunderland moved Burnley closer to relegation from the English Premier League with a 2-1 victory at the Stadium of Light yesterday.

The Black Cats bossed the match in the early stages and their pressure was rewarded with Frazier Campbell’s 25th minute goal before Darren Bent doubled their advantage five minutes before the break.

Burnley pulled a goal back eight minutes from time with Steven Thompson’s 25-yard drive but it was all too little too late for the Clarets, second from bottom and seemingly on their way to an immediate return to the Championship.

The Lancashire side are four points from safety and have played a game more than fellow strugglers Hull, West Ham and Wigan.

They have a testing run-in, with games against Liverpool, Birmingham and Tottenham Hotspur to come. With the game still goalless, Brian Jensen made a double save to deny Sunderland’s John Mensah and Michael Turner and home striker Kenwyne

Jones hit the post.

But Sunderland got the goal they’d been threatening when Bent held the ball up for former Tottenham colleague Alan Hutton, on loan from White Hart Lane, who crossed for Campbell to finish from close range.

And they were deservedly 2-0 up when David Meyle’s chip found Campbell and the forward stretched to head the ball into the path of fellow striker Bent, who struck a left-foot volley past Jensen.

Burnley rallied after the break, with Graham Alexander testing Sunderland and Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon, before substitute Thompson struck. —AFP

LONDON: Fulham’s Simon Davies (right) competes with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ronald Zubar during their English Premier League soccer match at Craven Cottage. —AP

Wolves edge closer to safety Fulham 0

Wolves 0 LONDON: Wolves moved closer to avoiding relegation from the Premier League after grinding out a 0-0 draw against Fulham yesterday.

Mick McCarthy’s team are now six points clear of the bottom three with three matches to play thanks to a determined display at Craven Cottage.

Fulham’s Bobby Zamora hit the woodwork in the second half but Roy Hodgson’s side seemed clearly distracted by the prospect of Thursday’s Europa League semi-final first leg at Hamburg.

Ronald Zubar had a chance to put Wolves ahead midway through the first half, but his volley from a corner failed to trouble Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer.

Wolves felt Fulham defender Paul Konchesky was fortunate to stay on the pitch after two ferocious tackles on Zubar but referee Mike Dean chose not to punish the Cottagers left-back.

McCarthy’s men threatened again when David Jones’ shot fell to Kevin Doyle, but the Irish striker drove his shot into the side-netting from closerange.

Jones and Doyle combined again minutes later but again Doyle was able to hit the target, this time with a free header from six yards out.

Fulham had a golden opportunity to go ahead on the hour

when Damien Duff picked up Zoltan Gera’s pass to race through, but the Republic of Ireland winger was dispossessed by George Elokobi as he tried to cut inside for a shot inside the box.

Zamora almost gave Fulham the lead in the 65th minute.

The former Tottenham striker shrugged off Christophe Berra’s challenge and beat Marcus Hahnemann, but the ball bounced back off a post.

Hahnemann then completely missed a Simon Davies corner but centre-back Chris Smalling, who will join Manchester United at the end of the season, headed on to the roof of the net.

At the other end, Elokobi’s long throw was deflected goalwards by Smalling but Schwarzer reacted well to save. —AFP

VIVA Kuwait bags ISO 9001 Global Certification

Goldman charges rattle global markets

ECB deputy warns against rushing to slap bank levy

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

www.kuwaittimes.net

NBK reports net profit of $264 million for Q1 2010 20% rise in net profits compared to Q1 2009

Mohammed Al-Bahar

Ibrahim Dabdoub

Greece: Markets want more detail on bailout MADRID: Greece’s finance minister said yesterday that market worries over Greek bonds could calm when the country agrees more details on standby loans with European Union and International Monetary Fund officials after talks next week.

George Papaconstantinou told reporters that Greece has passed its “most difficult” month for refinancing its swelling debt by successfully selling some 12 billion euros of debt in April. It needs to sell more than 10 billion euros in May, he said.

He claimed that Greek government moves to reduce its budget gap and the provision of some 45 billion euros in bailout loans from the IMF and other countries that use the euro should now reassure investors.

He also sought to soothe fears that a bailout would be slow in coming, saying other euro-zone countries told him that parliamentary approval would take “one week or two weeks at the maximum.” Spreads, or the difference between Greek and benchmark 10-year German bonds, soared last week, coming close to an all-time high, on news that Germany would require a vote from its parliament, which can sometimes take months.

“Markets are pushing to see more detail and more specifics on the support mechanism,” Papaconstantinou said, also blaming high interest rates on “people out there trying to make a buck” by betting on the chance that Greece could be unable to repay

debt. Some of that detail should come from technical talks due to start Monday when officials from the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the IMF are due to arrive in Athens to talk about the conditions for loans and how the loans will be financed. Greece requested the talks Thursday.

Papaconstantinou insisted that this was “not tantamount” to asking for a bailout. He warned that the “Icelandic cloud” of volcanic ash grounding flights in northern Europe could prevent those officials from coming. There is no timetable for concluding the talks, he said.

Greece will remain on track to reduce its deficit by four percentage points even if the EU statistics agency revised its yearly budget gap up, he said. He estimated the deficit at 12.9 percent — higher than an earlier forecast of 12.7 percent.

Greece shocked markets and other countries in the 16nation European currency zone when it said last September that its 2009 deficit would be four times above the EU’s maximum limit of 3 percent of national income. That set off a series of shockwaves, sending the euro tumbling and hiking the cost of Greek government borrowings as markets demanded higher interest rates to lend to a country they believed could default on its debt. It also saw EU governments demand Greece make painful reforms to curb the deficit. —AP

KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the largest Kuwaiti bank and the highest-rated in the Middle East, reported net profits of $264 million (KD 76.3 million) for the first quarter of 2010 compared with $220 million (KD 63.5) for the same period in 2009, an increase of 20%.

As of end of March 2010, NBK Group’s total assets reached $44.1 billion (KD 12.7 billion), whilst total shareholders’ equity reached $6.2 billion (KD 1.8 billion). Profitability indicators remained strong with ROA reaching 2.4% and ROE 18.1%.

Ibrahim Dabdoub, NBK’s Group Chief Executive Officer, said “NBK’s solid performance in the first quarter of 2010 demonstrates our sound financial position. The 20% growth achieved in net profits is another strong indicator of our ability to consistently manage our operations both inside and outside Kuwait profitably.” Dabdoub added that NBK continues to benefit from its successful expansionary strategy, outstanding asset quality, strong capital position and sound risk management.

Dabdoub also highlighted that NBK’s regional expansion strategy continues to pay off, specifically in Egypt and Qatar.

Meanwhile, the successful move into the Islamic banking space through the acquisition of a majority stake in Boubyan Bank will further enhance the Bank’s domestic market position.

Dabdoub attributed NBK’s strong performance to its conservative strategy, sound risk management, strong corporate governance and stable management team. These attributes also helped the bank advance its ranking to 38 on Global Finance’s list of the 50 safest banks in the world. Global Finance also recently named NBK as the “Best Emerging Markets Bank in the Middle East and in Kuwait” for 2010, which comes as a further recognition and validation of the bank’s position among regional financial institutions.

NBK continues to enjoy the widest banking presence in Kuwait with 71 branches, which together with its growing international representation add up to 177 branches worldwide.

NBK’s international presence spans many of the world financial centers including London, Paris, Geneva, New York and Singapore, as well as China (Shanghai) and Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City). Meanwhile, the regional coverage extends to Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Turkey.

NBK has consistently been awarded the highest credit rating of all banks in the region

by Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch Ratings. The Bank’s ratings are supported by its high capitalization, prudent lending policies, and its disciplined approach to risk management, in addition to its recognized and very stable management team.

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama speaks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington on Friday during a meeting of the President’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board. From left are, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, Vice President Joe Biden, the president, and White House adviser Paul Volcker, Chairman of the PERAB. — AP

Fresh crisis without new financial rules: Obama Republican resistance could jeopardize goal WASHINGTON: The US is destined to endure a new economic crisis that sticks taxpayers with the bill unless Congress tightens oversight of the financial industry, President Barack Obama said yesterday. The overhaul is the next major piece of legislation that Obama wants to sign into law this year, but solid Republican opposition in the Senate is jeopardizing that goal.

“Every day we don’t act, the same system that led to bailouts remains in place, with the exact same loopholes and the exact same liabilities,” Obama said in his weekly radio and Internet address. “And if we don’t change what led to the crisis, we’ll doom ourselves to repeat it. “Opposing reform will leave taxpayers on the hook if a crisis like this ever happens again,” the president said. A proposal that Senate Democrats are readying for debate creates a mechanism for liquidating large financial companies to avoid a meltdown.

For the first time, the government would regulate derivatives, those financial instruments whose value depends on an underlying asset, such as mortgages or stocks.

Derivatives can help hedge risks. But derivatives can produce steep losses, or huge profits, if the value of their underlying asset sinks.

The proposal also would create a council to detect threats to the financial system and set up a consumer protection agency to police people’s dealings with financial institutions.

On Friday, Obama promised to veto the bill if it doesn’t regulate the market for derivatives, which contributed to the nation’s economic problems after their value plummeted during the housing crisis.

But Democrats haven’t agreed on how far such regulation should go, and all Senate Republicans are united against the bill. That

Goldman fraud charges triggers prospect of wider crackdown WASHINGTON: Top Wall Street giant Goldman Sachs faced charges of financial fraud yesterday as US financial firms eyed the prospect of a wider crackdown on those that bet on the collapse of the housing market. A civil suit filed by the Securities and Exchange Commission Friday accused Goldman of “defrauding investors by misstating and omitting key facts” about a financial product based on subprime mortgage-backed securities.

The securities were a key contributor to the financial crisis that peaked in 2008 because many contained risky mortgages. The charges are believed to be the first brought against a Wall Street firm for speculating on the collapse of the housing market, which is still struggling to emerge from the worst financial crisis in decades.

Underlining persistent concerns about the unfettered trade, US President Barack Obama said Friday he would veto a Wall Street reform bill that lacked tough rules for complex financial instruments. “I will veto legislation that does not bring the derivatives market under control and some sort of regulatory framework assures that we don’t have the same sort of crisis we have seen in the past,” Obama said.

The SEC said Goldman failed to tell investors that a major hedge fund had helped put together the controversial financial product known as collateralized debt obligation (CDO) and was at the same time betting against it.

Paulson & Co, one of the world’s largest hedge funds, paid Goldman Sachs to structure a transaction in which it could take speculative positions against mortgage securities chosen by the fund, the commission said in a state-

NEW YORK: People walk past Julie Mehretu’s ‘Mural’ in the lobby of the Goldman Sachs headquarters in the Lower Manhattan area of New York on Friday. The government has accused Goldman Sachs & Co of defrauding investors by failing to disclose conflicts of interest in mortgage investments it sold as the housing market was faltering.—AP ment.

The deal, which took place during a massive mortgage meltdown in 2007 and as the country was about to fall into a brutal recession, was said to have cost investors around one billion dollars.

Goldman claimed that it lost 90 million dollars from its own investment in the security.

“We are disappointed that the SEC would bring this action related to a single transaction in the face of an extensive record which establishes that the accusations are unfounded in

law and fact,” the company said.

The firm said it would “vigorously contest them and defend the firm and its reputation.”

Paulson & Co. founder John Paulson said he had no role in choosing the mortgages.

The lawsuit also named Fabrice Tourre, then a vice-president at Goldman. He was said to be the creator and salesman of the product, which caused investors to lose about one billion dollars.

“The product was new and complex but the deception and conflicts are old and sim-

ple,” said Robert Khuzami, SEC’s director of the enforcement division in a statement.

Analysts said a long courtroom battle could now be expected.

The authorities have not ruled out the possibility of others involved in the alleged fraud or other similar types of fraud. “The SEC continues to investigate the practices of investment banks and others involved in the securitization of complex financial products tied to the US housing market as it was beginning to show signs of distress,” said Kenneth Lench,

head of the SEC’s structured and new products unit.

It not known whether the SEC might refer the case to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution. “The fact that the only individual charged here, after what was presumably a very thorough investigation, was a vice president rather than a managing director or higher, is relatively reassuring news for Goldman,” said Bank of America-Merrill Lynch research analyst Guy Moszkowski.

He said it seemed most likely that the potential for more serious charges rose dramatically the higher up the management chain the charges went. Among investors of Goldman’s controversial product were German commercial bank IKB. Paulson was not charged because it was not obligated to disclose any conflict of interest to investors, Khuzami said.

“Goldman made representations to investors, and Paulson did not.” The firm reportedly made billions of dollars by betting against the housing market in the years before its collapse.

“Paulson did not sponsor or initiate” Goldman’s product, the Paulson firm said in a statement. Goldman shares dived 12.79 percent Friday to $160.70, after falling as much as 15 percent when news of the fraud charges first hit the market.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average tumbled 125.91 points or 1.13 percent to end the week at 11,018.66 points, snapping a six-session winning streak that had driven the bluechip index to a fresh 18-month high. Oil prices also fell sharply, with New York’s main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in May, slipping $2.27 to $83.24 a barrel. — AFP

opposition complicates Democratic efforts to get the 60 votes necessary to overcome likely Republican procedural roadblocks.

Republicans contend that a provision creating a $50 billion fund for dismantling banks considered “too big to fail” would continue government bailouts of Wall Street. Obama administration officials say such a fund is unnecessary and they want Senate Democrats to remove it. Obama criticized financial industry interests for opposing the proposed regulations and for waging a “relentless campaign to thwart even basic, commonsense rules.” He repeated his call for Republicans and Democrats to work together to overhaul the system but made it clear that Democrats are prepared to go it alone. “One way or another, we will move forward,” he said. “This issue is too important.”

In the weekly Republican address, House Minority Whip Eric Cantor of Virginia took note of the week’s April 15 income tax filing deadline and criticized government spending and climbing deficits that he said are driving taxes higher. Cantor said Obama has enacted 25 tax increases passed by the Democraticcontrolled Congress that will cost families and small businesses more than $670 billion over the next decade and create a “bleak future for our kids and grandkids.” He urged a vote for Republicans in the November congressional elections.

“You have to take action so that we can begin to erase our deficits and free our children from our debt,” Cantor said. “And rather than putting the squeeze on our nation’s job creators and entrepreneurs, we believe in a progrowth strategy to create jobs and empower the American entrepreneur and small business people to thrive.” — AP

Malaysia PM says Iran fuel cut reports inaccurate KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has denied reports quoting him as saying the country has halted gasoline sales to Iran, saying there had been no requests since a March sale, the national news agency reported.

A news report on Friday quoted Najib as saying Malaysia had officially stopped selling fuel to Iran because of looming US sanctions on the Islamic republic over its nuclear development program.

On Thursday, Malaysian state oil firm Petronas told Reuters the company had stopped supplying gasoline to Iran. Najib told Malaysian reporters in New York on Friday Petronas was involved in a spot sale to Iran in mid-March under a third-party deal but there had been no requests since then, Bernama news agency reported.

“It is not correct. It was not a decision taken

by Petronas per se,” Najib was quoted as saying.

“It involved a spot sale and there was no requirement anymore, so they don’t do it (anymore).”

“I was a bit surprised. A lot of noise has been made out of this thing.”

Najib said it was a commercial transaction and it would be up to the parties involved if there were new requests for spot sales. Petronas has been shipping about 16,000 barrels per day (bpd) of motor fuel to OPEC members since the fourth quarter of 2009, traders said.

On Monday, Najib and US President Barack Obama agreed on the importance of Iran strictly abiding by its obligation under international nuclear non-proliferation pacts. — Reuters

22

BUSINESS

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Profit booking as negative sentiment hits stocks GLOBAL WEEKLY MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: The Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) reacted heavily to the negative news hovering around its large capitalization stocks last week which prompted investors to book profits and rush out of the market on fear of a near term market recall.

The retreat in the heavy-weighted stocks this week caused a huge decline in the market indices levels. As measured by Global’s weighted General Index, the Kuwaiti market closed the week shedding 3.16 percent, at 207.34 point. On a year-to-date basis, the index gains recoiled to 11.33 percent. Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) price index was also down by 185 points (2.44 percent) and closed at 7,384.5 points.

Total market capitalization was lower despite the new listing of Al-Masar Leasing & Investment Company, which got listed on Thursday, April 15, adding KD12.32mn to the overall market capitalization, bringing the week end’s market cap to KD34.22bn.

Market breadth was highly skewed towards decliners as out of 162 shares traded this week, 110 shares declined against only 34 advancing.

Trading activity was mixed this week with higher than average volume seen on April 14 pushed by a sell spree witnessed in the market. However, total traded volume was down by 4.93 percent this week reaching 1.79bn shares changing hands at a total traded value of KD431.58mn (+13.21 percent compared to the week before) which illustrates the increased activity on large companies’ stocks. High volume was seen on the Services sector, accounting for 30.89 percent of the total traded volume in the market with 552.97mn shares traded. Mubarrad Transport Company was the highest volume traded in the sector with 70.94mn share traded on its stock followed by high trading seen on the logistics services companies in the sector.

However, Gulf Finance House topped the volume list this week with 79.48mn shares traded. On the value list, the Services sector took the lead as well with KD169.31mn traded, accounting for 39.23 percent of total traded market value.

Zain topped the value traded list this week with KD38.66mn traded on its share. The biggest listed company saw a 7.25 percent retreat in its share price during the week in react to the downgraded rating issued by Goldman Sachs on the stock. Agility followed on the value list with KD36.30mn traded on the scrip. The share price was also down by 5 percent this week as the US government stated that it has appointed a new company as the main supplier to its military in Kuwait and Iraq replacing Agility. This followed an announcement that the US authorities extended a fraud indictment against the logistics provider.

Sector-wise, all market sectors were down this week with no exceptions. Global Food Index was the biggest loser, shedding 6.90 percent of its value. This notable decrease came with the retreat of the biggest food company Kuwait Foodstuff Company’s (Americana) share price by 8.75 percent. Global Services Index was the second biggest loser, down by 4.48 percent as most of the large capitalization stocks were seen down for the week.

Global Investment Index was also a notable retreated, shedding 4.31 percent. Strategia Investment Company was the biggest loser this week, shedding 28.57 percent of its share value followed by Bayan Investment Company with a 20.88 percent decrease in its share price. On the other side and in the same sector, Housing Finance Company (Iskan) topped the gainers list with 26 percent increase in its share price followed by Tamdeen Investment Company which added 20.90 percent to its share value. Global’s special indices were also down this week. Global Small Cap (Low 10) index was the biggest loser, shedding 4.80 percent while Global Large Cap (Top 10) Index retreated by 3.86 percent.

Global Islamic Sharia Index was down by 2.86 percent.

Macroeconomic News Kuwait’s M2 money supply growth decelerated to

3.1 percent year-on-year at the end of March, from 6.7 percent in the previous month, data showed on Sunday, April 11. M2, an indicator of future inflation, rose to KD25.64bn ($88.81bn) at the end of March, compared with KD24.86bn a year earlier, central bank data showed. Narrow money, or M1, rose 11.8 percent year-on-year to KD5.25bn, following a 6.0 percent increase at the end of February. Quasi money, which includes savings and time deposits in dinars, as well as foreign currency deposits, rose 1.1 percent to KD20.39bn, the data showed. Banks’ total claims on the private sector, which also include their local investments, rose 4.8 percent to KD27.1bn at the end of March.

The Central Bank of Kuwait (CBK) issued KD50mn ($173mn) worth of one-year treasury bonds on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, with a coupon rate of 1.25 percent. Bids for the bonds amounted to KD293mn, central bank data showed. The last issue was on April 7, for KD80mn, with 1.25 percent coupon. This is the fifth issue since last March and the sixths’ this year with a total amount of KD590mn and a maturity of one year each.

Oil related news Price of Kuwaiti crude oil was traded within a narrow range this week to conclude at $81.35 per barrel (pb) on Wednesday, April 14, a marginal decrease of $0.04 per barrel, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) said. The late rise in the price of Kuwaiti crude comes after the International Energy Agency (IEA) issued on positive remarks on Tuesday, April 13, after the oil market, stating that global demand on oil was expected to come to a record high of 1.67mn barrels per day this year - 100,000 barrels higher than previous predictions. OPEC is expecting global oil prices to remain within the $70-80 pb range in the coming few months, given the improvements in the oil market and the global economy. Prices are at much better levels than those seen over the past two years, where the barrel dropped to $32 in late December 2008, after having been at US$136 pb in July the same year.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) has sold 24,000 tons of light grade for first-half May delivery to an undisclosed petrochemical maker at a lower premium, and have another 74,000 tons for sale for next month delivery, traders said. KPC sold the light grade

slated for early May loading, starting May 4, at a premium around the high-teen levels a ton to Middle East quotes on a free-on-board (FOB) basis. This was lower compared to a parcel sold for April 24-28 loading to Shell at $24.00-$25.00 a ton, FOB. However, sentiment improved on Monday, April 12, after Taiwan’s Formosa surprised the industry by buying more than expected volumes at nearly 300,000 tons, bringing its total purchases for May delivery to almost 550,000 tons. Cracks rose to a nearly two-week high at $118.10 a ton on April 12 versus a five-month low on April 7 at $99.95 a ton. KPC issued this week a new tender to sell 50,000 tons of full-range naphtha for May 15-16 loading, and another 24,000 tons of light grade for May 23-24 lifting. KPC is able to sell two light grade cargoes a month as its new aromatics plant is now running at high rates.

Chairman of Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) Sami AlRusaid, said that Kuwait’s oil production capacity will reach 3.3mn barrels per day in August. He added that the 3mn bpd does not include the 270,000 to 300,000 bpd Kuwait pumps from the divided zone it shares with Saudi Arabia. The official said that Kuwait’s current capacity, excluding production from the neutral zone, was 2.9mn bpd.

Indonesia’s state-owned Pertamina is buying 1.8mn barrels of term diesel for April-June quarter delivery from Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) at a higher price than the previous term deal, traders said this week. Pertamina is paying 40-45 cents per barrel above Singapore spot quotes for the 0.2 percent sulfur grade, on a cost-and-freight (C&F) basis, up from a discount of 20-30 cents per barrel, C&F, in a deal concluded for the first quarter. Pertamina will take delivery of one 600,000-barrel cargo of diesel every month during the quarter. KPC is Pertamina’s largest supplier of gas oil.

Five OAPEC members, including Kuwait, dominate more than 70 percent of energy investments in the Arab world, with a total estimate of $470bn, OAPEC announced. The other countries are Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE and Algeria. Other auxiliary energy investments like oil refining and petrochemical industries comprise 47 percent of the overall volume of energy investments, the Kuwait-based Organization of the Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) said in its monthly bulletin.

Natural gas supplied represent 36 percent of the total investment volume, while power generation takes up 17 percent of the total, it added.

Other local news Bids for license to execute the “Kuwait Metro” project could be filed till May 27, said the technical authority which overlooks development projects and initiatives this week. All details of conditions and specifics of the extended period are to be found on www.ptb.gov.kw for those wishing to present an offer.

Newly listed firms Al-Masar Leasing & Investment Company got listed on April 15 after getting the approval from Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE). The company was the fourth to list under the Investment sector this year out of which three which this are Islamic. Established in December 2005, Al-Masar is a Kuwaiti shareholding company with a total paid-up capital of KD16.05mn was created to provide a full range of Islamic Sharia compliant investment products & services. The company recorded a net loss of KD3.91mn with an EPS of -24.34fils as of December 2009 compared to a net profit of KD2.48mn and an EPS of 15.42fils recorded in December 2008. With the listing of Al-Masar, the total number of listed companies under the regular market became 211.

Kuwait Stock Exchange Kuwait Finance House (KFH) won the Central Bank of Kuwait’s (CBK) approval to buy back up to 10 percent of its stock. The approval is granted for a period of six months starting April 19 for the buyback.

International Investment Group (IIG) said it was restructuring after defaulting on a payment for its $200mn Islamic bond. The company has appointed an international consultancy to review its business “ahead of putting a detailed financial restructuring plan in place,” it said in a statement. IIG had announced the default this week in a filing to Nasdaq Dubai. It said it communicated to the sukuk holders it was unable to make the periodic distribution amount of $3.35mn due on April 12.

Agility fell under pressure after a US court filed a revised fraud indictment against the logistics

provider, dashing hopes of an imminent settlement in a case that may decide if it can bid for future US contracts. Last week, Agility said it was delaying the release of 2009 earnings as it negotiated with US authorities, raising expectations a deal was near.

Instead Agility was back in court, with the indictment extended to include two affiliates as it stands accused of defrauding the US military.

The US government has appointed a new company as the main supplier to its military in Kuwait and Iraq, replacing Kuwait’s Agility which will continue for six more months, Agility said on Thursday, April 15.

Shares of the logistics firm were halted for trading.

National Real Estate Company said it is investing AED1.2bn ($326.7mn) in a residential project in Abu Dhabi, the first of several it plans to develop in the UAE. The waterfront development, Carina Views, aimed at mid-income professionals will be developed on Abu Dhabi’s Reem Island, said the company.

Carina Views comprises 684 units in four towers and will be completed in the fourth quarter of 2012.

National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) said that it has raised its stake in Islamic lender Boubyan Bank to 47 percent. NBK had received the Kuwaiti central bank’s approval last month to raise its 40 percent stake in Boubyan to a maximum of 60 percent. The approval is valid for three months, starting March 22. NBK, the biggest shareholder in Boubyan, has been boosting its Islamic banking business. Last month, NBK’s shareholders approved a 10 percent capital increase through a rights issue to fund expansion.

Al-Mazaya Holding Company has voted for and given their stamp of approval to the proposal for acquisition on the remaining stake of subsidiaries, First Dubai Real Estate Development Company and First Waterfront Real Estate Company. Al-Mazaya believes that keeping the current economic conditions in mind; it could be the right time for the company to think of adding to their assets and acquiring additional real estate assets. This low-risk strategy can be achieved through acquiring additional stakes in assets that the company already owns and manages.

Eng Khalid Esbaitah, CEO and Managing Director of Al-Mazaya said that the Swap Ratio derived was 3 shares of First Dubai against 1 share of Al-Mazaya.

Highlights of the week Kuwait’s Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Mohmmad Al-Afasi issued on Wednesday, April 14 a decision to set minimum wage salaries for employees of the private sector. A ministerialstatement said that the decision states that no employee of the private sector will be hired below the KD60 wage. The decision reflects the continuous cooperation between the legislative and executive authorities.

Kuwait’s Central Bank had delayed the approval of the 2008 results of the Islamic investment company, and appointed a temporary supervisor last year to monitor the firm’s debt restructuring and the compilation of its financial results.

The results come after the Islamic investment firm applied last month for support under a government facility set up for troubled companies as part of a debt restructuring. Dar has been trying to restructure about KD1bn ($3.48bn) of debt and said in December that it had reached a deal with 80 percent of its creditors. The government facility would help Dar get the consent of the rest of the creditors on its restructuring plan.

Burgan Bank has announced its grant of credit facilities to KGL International for Ports, Warehousing & Transport, KSC (Closed) to execute a project for the Kuwait Ports Authority. KGL Ports International (KGL PI) was recently awarded by the Kuwait Ports Authority the contract of construction, supply, installation and operation of the Shuwaikh Port container handling equipment - the main commercial port of Kuwait Ports Authority. The project, which is expected to be completed within five years has a total value of KD44.5mn, against the credit facilities granted by Burgan Bank.

EXCHANGE RATES Commercial Bank of Kuwait US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian Dollar Australian DLR Indian rupees Sri Lanka Rupee UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi riyals Omani riyals Philippine peso Egyptian pounds

.2820000 .4410000 .390000 .2695000 .2830000 .2660000 .0045000 .0020000 .0778010 .7579950 .4020000 .0750000 .7430810 .0045000 .0500000

.2920000 .4490000 .3965000 .2777000 .2900000 .2720000 .0075000 .0035000 .0785830 .7656130 .4170000 .0790000 .7505500 .0072000 .0580000

US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian dollars Danish Kroner Swedish Kroner Australian dlr Hong Kong dlr Singapore dlr Japanese yen Indian Rs/KD Sri Lanka rupee Pakistan rupee Bangladesh taka UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi Riyal/KD Omani riyals Philippine Peso

CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES .2866000 .4436660 .3920980 .2714370 .2855850 .0526670 .0403050 .2677130 .0369390 .2065000 .0030780 .0065130 .0025250 .0034420 .0041990 .0780690 .7606000 .4053320 .0764660 .7447910 .0064400

.2887000 .4468000 .3948670 .2733600 .2876070 .0530400 .0405910 .2696040 .0372000 .2079620 .0031000 .0065590 .0025430 .0034670 .0042290 .0785670 .7654500 .4082030 .0769530 .7495410 .0064850

US Dollar Sterling pounds Swiss Francs Saudi Riyals

TRANSFER CHEQUES RATES .2887000 .4468000 .2733600 .0769530

287.900 194.200 274.600 266.010 286.000 ASIAN COUNTRIES

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar Bangladesh Taka Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - Transfer Irani Riyal - Cash

3.159 6.478 3.423 2.521 4.049 209.710 37.113 4.156 6.478 8.922 0.301 0.292 GCC COUNTRIES

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

76.830 79.151 748.410 765.110 78.460 ARAB COUNTRIES

Egyptian Pound - Cash Egyptian Pound Yemen Riyal Tunisian Dinar Jordanian Dinar Lebanese Lira Syrian Lier Morocco Dirham

54.750 52.200 1.287 207.400 406.810 193.300 6.305 35.770 GOLD

20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

222.000 113.000 59.000

Bahrain Exchange Company

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer Euro Sterling Pound

Canadian dollar Turkish lire Swiss Franc Australian dollar US Dollar Buying

287.950 392.300 445.830

COUNTRY Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash

SELL CASH 269.900 765.600 4.420 288.300 565.300 15.800 53.400 167.800 54.200 393.000

SELL DRAFT 268.400 765.600 4.155 286.800

211.100 52.218 391.500

Hongkong dollar Indian rupees Indonesia Iranian tuman Iraqi dinar Japanese yen Jordanian dinar Lebanese pound Malaysian ringgit Morocco dirham Nepalese Rupees New Zealand dollar Nigeria Norwegian krone Omani Riyal Pakistani rupees Philippine peso Qatari riyal Saudi riyal Singapore dollar South Africa Sri Lankan rupees Sterling pound Swedish krona Swiss franc Syrian pound Thai bhat Tunisian dollar UAE dirham U.S. dollars Yemeni Riyal

37.800 6.800 0.035 0.293 0.257 3.220 408.670 0.194 92.080 47.000 4.250 208.400 2.185 50.000 747.830 3.500 6.550 79.620 76.870 211.090 41.540 2.728 447.500 41.100 275.600 6.400 9.280 217.900 78.300 288.300 1.380

37.650 6.490

406.940 0.193 92.080 4.070 206.900

1,242.480

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE Sterling Pound US Dollar

445.500 287.900

274.100 9.120 78.450 287.900

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co. Rate per 1000 (Tran)

US Dollar Pak Rupees Indian Rupees Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso UAE Dirhams Saudi Riyals Bahraini Dinars Egyptian Pounds Pound Sterling Indonesian Rupiah Nepali rupee Yemeni Riyal Jordanian Dinars Syrian Pounds Euro Candaian Dollars

287.950 3.445 6.480 2.540 4.160 6.500 78.460 76.955 765.100 52.240 448.800 0.000032300 4.100 1.550 408.800 5.750 398.500 295.500

Al Mulla Exchange Currency

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Cyprus Pound Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees

2.537 4.184 6.457 3.075 8.929 6.312 3.077

Currency 747.650 3.450 6.485 79.190 76.870 211.090 41.540 2.527 445.500

GOLD 10 Tola

Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees

289.350 293.915 446.300 392.170 269.830 709.215 765.875 78.760 79.455 77.125 408.315 52.586 6.523 3.459

US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen Indian Rupee Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupee Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso Pakistan Rupee Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Saudi Riyal

*Rates are subject to change

Transfer rate 287.500 392.500 447.000 289.500 3.120 6.480 52.230 2.524 4.155 6.467 3.430 764.000 78.350 76.750

BUSINESS

Sunday, April 18, 2010

23

Firm’s state-of-the-art network gains global status

VIVA Kuwait bags prestigious ISO 9001 Global Certification Abdullah Al-Hogal, Head Office branch manager with the first prize winner Mohammed Al-Sharbaji

Mohamad Al-Sharbaji wins NBK’s top Al-Jawhara prize KD 125,000 KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the leading bank in Kuwait and the highest rated bank in the Middle East recently announced the names of the Al-Jawhara Draw prize winners for the month of April 2010 which was conducted at NBK’s Head Office.

The first prize of KD 125,000 went to Mohamad Khaldon Al-Sharbaji, while the second place winner Hasina Mohammad Omar received KD 7,500. The third winner Ahmed Essa Al-Qaoud was also awarded KD 3,000 and the remaining 97 winners were awarded KD 400 each.

Al-Jawhara’s grand prize winner, Al-Sharbaji, a Sales Manager from Syria said he has

been a loyal NBK customer for almost 15 years, adding that he had previously won two of the small Al-Jawhara prizes but never imagined that one day he would be the grand prize winner. He also stated that just before winning the KD 125,000 grand prize he was contemplating depositing KD 15,000 in an Al-Jawhara account for his children’s future, but with his big win he feels even more secure in their future and expressed his sincere gratitude to NBK. Al-Jawhara account offers numerous benefits to NBK customers. It is not only an interest-free account with regular deposit and withdrawal privileges, but also automatically entitles account holders

to enter the monthly AlJawhara draw. Each KD 50 in an Al-Jawhara account entitles the customer to one chance at winning any one of the onehundred prizes allocated for each draw. All prizes are automatically credited to the winners’ accounts the day after the draw. The more money held in your Al-Jawhara account, the greater your chances of winning!

Al-Jawhara accounts are available for both Kuwaitis and non-Kuwaitis and can be opened at any one of NBK’s branches around Kuwait. For further information kindly visit www.nbk.com, or call Hala Watani at 1801801. “Al Jawhara Winners April 2010”

Sr.#

Cert. No.

Name of Customer

Prize

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100

043076661 039637255 000817139 043080359 013304607 031165397 038204754 033132623 004362225 028176758 025132415 069003645 073016535 040178951 101593004 062054244 038057271 065035496 023085681 016435656 051124793 105994028 011291613 012196088 016486331 048164143 040154882 051259060 047239328 057024847 103833033 038204649 102224061 059093919 016386825 062138057 047232706 047301600 015181863 032934637 055002110 061010502 007536518 059000430 108686027 040193357 012003891 000961434 069063583 008279918 027396630 006123244 042541727 040200531 028066006 013304607 039497623 051288990 017102804 038078996 021271909 054166128 103957019 011274344 008958653 029002567 008884854 019191995 053020383 007536682 000546976 028071875 079001793 015171833 055049249 019201710 068001991 028162536 047032421 033169314 030333083 002342472 000228508 027310914 082004013 037271466 016292847 055012159 039585964 002180987 004328027 018249434 015292371 122394000 046005943 045104824 000807923 064009416 000435058 051237288

Mohamad Khaldon Badraldin Alsharbaji Hasina Mohammad Umar Mohammad Omar Ahmed Essa Mohd Alqaoud Bassam Akram Yaziji Faisal Abdulla A Al Muhana Mohammed Adnan Ali Amer Ayman Alhabal Nayef Mohammad Khaled Almasama Bushra Mustafa Alkadro Mohammad Reyadh Abdulmohsin Alqattan Abdulaziz Mohamed Abdulkarem Alkhamis Hussain Mohammed Hussain Alwazzan Abdullah Barrak Hadi Hussain Bandan Nath Lal Mohan Nath Ahmed Hussain Yousef Suad Ali Saeed Alshebani Hassan Mohmed Ali Ramadan Fouad Mahmoud Shatila Jassem Mohamd Soud Alanjri Eiman Nabeil Ali Othman Bader Raheem Mazid Aldaihani Min/Ghalya Khaled Ibrahem Aljaber Abdulkarim Awaid Tayeh Mesheal Mohamed Hasan Aldallal Min Ahmad Sherif Ali Nazzal Laila Eid Jaber Almutairi Shereefa Abdulhadi Rashed Alfaji Ali Abdulhameed Abdulnibi Naqi Jehad Fawzi Dagher Abdulmohsen Mohamed Abdulmohsen Al Hamad Shadwah Bukhet Husain Ahmad Bashar Mohamed Younis Hanan Ahmad Qambar Yaqout Min Zaid Anwar Yaquob Hayati Zahra Ahmad Ali Almuwail Fatemah Yacoub Jassem Bou Albanat Marcel Salim Abdulla Elhawi Mohammed Fereydoun Sha Hosseini Khaled Fahad Sulaiman Alfahad Maryam Khalfan Ahmed Khalfan Yousef Husain Yosef Alabdulmohsen Bashar Hamdi Shakeeb Atout Min Abdulaziz Ayesh Amash Alazmi Bashar Ali Jafar Alkhuraibet Min Abdullah Mubarak Ali Almubarak Nadia A Raheem Jasem Alhamdani Amaal Hashem Sayed Mandani Ramadhan Sana Alauldeen Tawfeq Jouma Kawthar Ibraheem Fadhali Min Salman Abdulaziz M Alotaibi Naser Saleh Alabed Faisal Saleh Abdulrahman Alhadah Huda Ghaleb Kathem Al Rasheed Hmoud Ibraheem Alamash Hamad Essa Ibeahim Almeshary Faisal Abdulla A Al Muhana Waled Ali Husein Jemaa Min Fatima Hakim Sadoun Alsubaie Laila Salem Dao Naier Safwat Desouki Elsokary Omana Kutty Daniel Khatoun Ali Saleh Alhaddad Hasan Yousef Ben Essa Naji Khalel Mohamed Ibrahim Rehab Mad Alla Aman Alenizi Saleh Menawer Jefeen Fatima Eid Mudhaf Alshammiri Mustansir Fidahusain Electricwala Min Farah Abbas Golestan Lourien Chafic Bawari Anwar Parapparambil Hamed Husain A Rasoul Qasem Hamidah Hussen Husan Abdullah Abdulla Mubarak Naser Alomair Qusay A Z E Al Awadhi Musbah Mohd Zuhair Alateri Alaa Abbas Ali Naqi Belal Khalil Sader Ahmad Sayed Mohsen Sayed Jaber Ahmad Waleed Abdelkhalek Mohamed Abdelkhalek Mishal Abdulla Khalil Al Hashash Basema Mahmoud Moustafa Salma Asamad Dashti Julfre Robeno Miles Bader Abdulhamed Ali Alsalem Robert Jabi Sheety Talal Masoud Faraj Almuhana Nassar Abbas Sayed Mahmod Al Mowla Mohammed Abdulla Shawi Alqalaf Omran Abdulaziz Omran Nabawy Ferras Ali Bakeer Nabil Suliman Faker Aldeen Mazen Khairi Arif Abusido Fahad Khalid Al-Mudhaf Dsouza Ronald Louis Nadyah Abdalrazaq Sulman Aldlami Mariam Said Mekhaeel Feltaous Min Abdula Husain Abdula Ashknani Celine Jakmian Pierre Jakmian Hussain Mahmood Ahmad Mohammed Alfoudari

125000 7500 3000 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400 400

KUWAIT: VIVA Kuwait has received the ISO 9001 Quality Management System certificate for information technology and its state-of-the art network attaining global status by meeting applicable regulatory requirements from two leading certification entities: SAI Global, and the Global Experience Consulting Company .

Chief Technology Officer, Salman Al-Badran, VIVA Kuwait, who accepted the international certificate said, “The ISO 9001 standard provides a tried and tested framework for implementing a systematic approach to managing our processes allowing us to continue providing top notch service to all our customers.” “It is our duty to keep our customers satisfied by striving to meet or exceed their expectations, which is why we are so grateful to have earned this certification only one year after launching in Kuwait,” added Al-Badran.

VIVA Kuwait continues to invest in and utilize the best quality management control and network tools, to optimize our network.

VIVA is the newest, most advanced mobile telecommunications service provider in Kuwait.

Launched in December 2008, VIVA makes things Possible for our customers by transforming communication, information and

Chief Technology Officer, Salman Al-Badran, VIVA Kuwait receives the ISO 9001 Quality Management System certificate for information technology. entertainment experiences.

The company has rapidly established an unrivalled position in the market through our customer and employee centric approach. VIVA’s quest is to be

China needs to consider currency ‘reforms’: EU MADRID: China needs to consider “reforms” to bring an end to imbalances between its currency and global competitors, the European commissioner for economic and monetary affairs said yesterday.

“It would be important that China would consider reforms in this regard so we could see a certain rebalancing of the value of the renminbi,” said Olli Rehn following a meeting of European Union finance ministers in Spain. “It would be very important for the global economy and also for the Chinese economy,” the Finn added. Beijing has long linked its currency, the renminbi or yuan, to the dollar, rather than letting it float as the country’s economy grows. The United States and Europe frequently urge China to re-value the yuan, but so far to no avail.

China last month dismissed calls from US lawmakers for Beijing to be labelled a currency manipulator, saying the value of the yuan was not to blame for global trade imbalances. —AFP

the mobile brand of choice for Kuwait by being transparent, engaging, energetic and fulfilling.

VIVA continues to take a considerable share of the mar-

ket by offering an innovative range of best value products, services and content propositions; a state of the art, nationwide network and world-class service. VIVA offers Internet

Investment Dar announces financial results for 2008 Total assets of KD 1.2 billion KUWAIT: The Investment Dar KSCC has announced its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2008, after obtaining approval from the Central Bank of Kuwait and endorsement by the company’s auditors. The Investment Dar reported an annual loss of KD 80.3 million for the financial year 2008, its first loss since the Company’s inception in 1994.

This is equal to a loss of 87.45 fils per share. The financial results of 2008 were impacted by unrealized losses and a decline in asset values. Investment Dar’s total assets in 2008 were at KD 1.2 billion, against total liabilities of KD 1 billion in the same year.

Following the rapid contraction of global credit markets and the deterioration in market conditions from mid-2008, Investment Dar financial results were primarily impacted by losses arising from its portfolio of company assets as well as impairments made for reduced asset valuations. The final quarter of 2008 saw a reduction in value of KD 520 million in

the assets of some Investment Dar’s affiliate companies, with Investment Dar’s share of this asset value reduction at KD 90 million in the same period. Total provisions of KD 89.5 million were taken at the full year to provide against the reduction in value of Investment Dar’s investments.

Since early 2009, Investment Dar has been in a process of restructuring, which it has undertaken in partnership with its banks and investors. Through its advisors and through the leadership of the Coordinating Committee, established to represent the views of Investment Dar’s banks and investors, the Company has agreed the commercial terms of a consensual restructuring plan with more than 80% of banks and investors. The restructuring plan will see all outstanding obligations repaid in full.

Adnan Al-Musallam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Managing Director of the Investment Dar, commented: “2008 was an extremely challenging year follow-

Chairman, GM of Oriental Insurance Co visit Kuwait KUWAIT: Chairman of The Oriental Insurance Company (OIC), Dr R K Kaul, and the General Manager, Dr A K Saxena, arrived in Kuwait on April 18, for a three-day visit. During their stay the highprofile dignitaries are expected to meet with Indian Ambassador as well as conduct discussions with officials of Kuwait’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce. They would also hold review meetings with representatives of Al Mulla Group, the Chief Agents of OIC, and acquaint themselves with the local market through a client-meet at the Marina Hotel.

The Oriental Insurance Company, which caters to the growing insurance needs of India and beyond has 26 regional offices, under which there are nearly a 1000 branches spread across India, and three foreign operations in Nepal, UAE and Kuwait. The company, a mammoth institution among India’s insurance industry, has grown from a gross premium of less than one lakh rupees in 1950, to more than Rs 4,000 crore in fiscal 2008-2009.

The OIC, which is represented in Kuwait through their Chief Agents, Al Mulla Group, is one of the biggest foreign insurance companies in the country.

R K Kaul, who was appointed as Chairman and Managing Director of OIC in December 2009, and Dr. AK Saxena, the General Manager of OIC since 2008, during their visit will meet with Rashid Al Tabtabai,

speed up to 21.6Mbps due to the implementation of the most advanced third generation (3G and HSDPA) network in Kuwait resulting in superior coverage, performance and reliability.

ing the rapid deterioration in market and credit conditions. These factors affected Investment Dar’s financial performance which resulted in our first ever loss.

However, we remained well founded, with assets of KD 1.2 billion and shareholders’ equity of KD 168.5 million. As is wellknown, several of the sectors we have invested in are cyclical in nature and as the cycle turns so we anticipate asset values - including some of those held by The Investment Dar - will improve.

“Since the beginning of last year, we have been working hard to restructure the business, to ensure that we remain in a position to generate long term value for our investors and shareholders. This has seen us working with our banks and investors, the Coordinating Committee and our advisors to agree and progress a consensual restructuring plan that will see all outstanding obligations paid in full.

With the plan agreed, we are now moving towards formal documentation of the plan and look forward to its implementation.”

in the news Saudi SABIC posts Q1 net of 5.43bn riyals RIYADH: Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) posted a net profit of 5.43 billion riyals ($1.45 billion) in the first quarter yesterday, driven by higher sales, volumes and prices. The major petrochemicals company had posted a net loss of 974 million riyals in the same period the year earlier. Six analysts surveyed by Reuters had expected on average first-quarter net income of 5.23 billion riyals. SABIC’s earnings serve as a yardstick for earnings of other petrochemical majors such as Germany’s BASF and Dow Chemical.

Saudi Samba’s Q1 net falls on lending income

Dr R K Kaul

Dr A K Saxena

Undersecretary at Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry to discuss insurance related matters of mutual interest. During a press briefing on the visit of the Company’s top management to the country, Anil Parasher, Resident Manager of OIC, Kuwait, said that the local office and its Chief Agent in the country, Al Mulla Group, were pleased to welcome the dignitaries to the country and looked forward to their fruitful meetings with local clients and government officials.

RK Kaul was General Manager of National Insurance Company, Kolkata, prior to his appointment as Chairman and Managing Director of OIC in 2009. An Associate member of the Insurance Institute of India, Dr Kaul commenced his career as an Officer with the National

Insurance Company Ltd (NICL) in 1977. Since then he has handled various line and staff responsibilities in numerous offices across the country, including a stint with Kenindia Assurance Company Limited, Nairobi from 1993 to 1999.

Dr A K Saxena, who joined The New India Assurance Company Ltd as Direct Officer in 1979, and worked as Branch and Divisional Head till 1994 in India, was posted as Country Manager for Philippines operations of New India Assurance Company from 1994 to 1999. He took up numerous prestigious posts with New India Assurance Company until his appointment as General Manager of OIC in 2008.

Dr Saxena is also in charge of supervising the Indian and foreign business operations of the Company.

RIYADH: Samba Financial Group yesterday posted a drop in first-quarter net profit in line with analysts forecasts after Saudi Arabia’s second-biggest lender by market value made less money on loans. Samba made a net profit of 1.21 billion riyals ($322.7 million) in the three months to end-March, down 4.8 percent from 1.27 billion riyals a year earlier.

Analysts were expecting Samba to make an average 1.08 billion riyals in net profit during the period. Like the majority of listed Saudi lenders, Samba said its net lending income fell during the first quarter by 10.5 percent to 1.17 billion riyals. But unlike the majority, Samba also saw a 1.5 percent decline in income from non-lending operations which include brokerage and foreign exchange transactions.

Saudi Savola CEO to step down in June RIYADH: Saudi food firm Savola said yesterday its chief executive Sami Baroum had asked to step down effective June 30. The firm gave no reason for his request, according to a stock market statement yesterday. —Reuters

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

KSE posts major weekly loss amid selloff KUWAIT: Selling activities dominated the course of trades in Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) during the last week, causing the market to register a significant weekly loss.

KSE price index dipped below both the 7,500 and 7,400 points levels and ended the week’s activity with 2.44% decline, whereas the weighted index recorded a 3.06% weekly loss. Selling transactions that were witnessed in the first two days of the week were mostly for profit taking, following the market’s registered gains in the previous weeks. They also occurred in light of traders’ anticipation for the announcements of listed companies’ results for the first three months of this year.

Nevertheless, selling activities intensified in the following days due to pressures exerted on number of blue-chips. One of which was Agility, which was negatively affected by latest news regarding the pending case of the company’s contracts with the US army. The selling effect was further amplified

Bayan Investment weekly market report by negative rumors that affected several listed companies, and contributed to the spread of fear and panic sentiments among traders.

By the end of the week, the price index closed at 7,384.5 points, down by 2.44% from the week before closing, whereas the weighted index registered a 3.06% weekly loss after closing at 434.79 points. Accordingly, the market’s year-to-date gains were reduced as a result of last week’s incurred losses, as price index’s increase from the beginning of the year reached 5.41%, while weighted index’s gains became 12.71%. On the other hand, last week’s average daily turnover reached K.D. 86.32 million, at 13.21% growth compared to previous week’s levels, whereas trading volume

average amounted to 358.03 million shares, at a decrease of 4.93%.

Sectors’ indices All of KSE’s sectors ended last week in the red zone. Last week’s biggest loser was the Industry sector, as its index declined by 3.72% to end the week’s activity at 5,909.7 points. Whereas, in the second place, the Food sector’s index closed at 4,691.0 points recording 3.47% decrease. The Investment sector came in third, as its index closed at 5,696.5 points at a loss of 3.26%. The NonKuwaiti companies sector was the least declining as its index closed at 7,585.8 points with a 0.08% decrease.

Sectors’ activity The Services sector dominated total trade volume during last week with 552.97 million shares changing hands, representing 30.89% of the total market trading volume. The Investment sector was second in terms trading volume as the sector’s traded shares were 26.13% of last week’s total trading volume, with a total of 467.83 million shares. On the other hand, the Services sector’s stocks where the highest traded in terms of value; with a turnover of KD 169.31 million or 39.23% of last week’s total market trading value. The Banks sector took the second place as the sector’s last week turnover of KD 102.56 million represented 23.76% of the total market trading value.

Market Capitalization KSE total market capitalization declined by 3.04% during last week to reach KD 33.06 billion, as all of KSE’s sectors recorded a decrease in their respective market capitalization. The Food sector was the most declining as its total market capitalization reached KD 742.22 million, decreasing by 6.89%. The Services sector was the second in terms of recorded decline with 4.32% decrease after the total value of its listed companies reached KD 9.10 billion. The third place was for the Investment sector, which total market capitalization reached KD 3.20 billion by the end of the week, recording a decline of 4.17%. The Insurance sector was the least declining with 0.58% recorded decrease after its market capitalization amounted to KD 293.40 million. — Prepared by the Studies & Research Department Bayan Investment Co.

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

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Oman economy weathers global downturn Real GDP could grow by 4-5% this year • Inflation may accelerate to around 4% in 2010 KUWAIT: Oman’s economy has recorded some of the Gulf region’s more sluggish growth rates for much of this decade, at least in relative terms. Real GDP grew by an average of 6.5% per year between 2003 and 2008, compared to an average of nearly 8% for the GCC as a whole. These days, however, that achievement looks less disappointing. Its development model - whilst perhaps less eye-catching than many others - has seen Oman through the crisis of the past two years better than many of its peers for a number of reasons, including: i. Its relatively straightforward, stable financial system, dominated by traditional banks (focused on customer and government deposit taking, corporate and retail lending) with relatively small investment portfolios and modest utilization of volatile wholesale and foreign funding. This helped limit investment losses, stem liquidity issues and prevent any major rise in non-performing loans (NPLs). ii. The execution of various large scale industrial sector projects, including those under the government’s diversification program. This also helped generate a huge 71% surge in the size of the expatriate labor force between 2006 and 2009, providing a major boost to the non-oil economy. iii. Rising hydrocarbon output, compared to the sharp declines in production seen in some of its GCC neighbors.

This is mostly the result of Oman’s status as a non-OPEC crude oil producer, but also due to rising output of condensates.

As a result, the fallout from the financial crisis was relatively easily contained by the authorities. Measures taken by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO) to support the financial system included several cuts in its main lending rate to 2% (through 2008), the introduction of a $2bn emergency dollar lending facility to support bank liquidity (Nov 2008), a cut in the reserve requirement from 8% to 5% (Dec 2008); and an increase in the allowed loan-deposit ratio from 85% to 87.5% (Jan 2009). The government also introduced an OR150mn market-making

fund intended to support the stock market (Nov 2008).

Yet in broad terms, the financial system has not come under any intense systemic pressure. According to some press reports, only USD640 mn of the CBO’s emergency lending facility was ever used, while banks have avoided the need for more explicit government support in the form of major cash injections or extra deposit guarantees. As a result, although growth in both deposits and credit have slowed sharply to 6% of late (see chart 1), the banking system is seen as remaining adequately capitalized and capable of supporting sustainable economic growth over the coming years.

Outlook - economic growth With no apparent major excesses or bubbles in the financial and real estate sectors, the Omani economy looks set to remain one of the more steady performers in the GCC region. Although the economy is small, lacks a degree of dynamism and government resources are limited, the push for diversification is providing a sustained catalyst for development. This diversification covers the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), petrochemicals, metals and tourism sectors, as well as state spending on infrastructure including health and education, housing and transport (such as the new Al-Duqm port).

The recent performance of the hydrocarbon sector - often perceived as vulnerable to decline - has provided an upside surprise and helped cushion the impact of the slowdown in private sector activity on GDP. Total hydrocarbon production actually rose for the second year in a row in 2009, by 5% to around 1.3 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe) per day. A combination of rising private sector involvement and Enhanced Oil Recovery techniques by state-owned Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) Oman’s main hydrocarbon producer - has been used to offset natural declines in Oman’s ageing oil fields.

PDO aims to keep crude and condensate production broadly stable over the coming 4-5 years while expanding its production of natural gas by as much as 40% (primarily to satisfy rising domestic demand rather than to boost LNG exports). By 2015, PDO’s pro-

NBK GCC BRIEF - OMAN

duction of natural gas is expected to exceed its output of crude oil. The oil and gas sector - which accounts for 45-50% of Oman’s GDP - is therefore likely to continue to make a significant contribution to overall growth over the medium-term. We expect real hydrocarbon output (excluding refining) to expand by a further 6% in 2010, after similar increases in 2008 and 2009.

After expanding by more than 10% per year in 2006-08, real growth in the non-oil economy probably decelerated to around 3% in 2009, hit by weaker confidence, subdued credit conditions, slower project spending, a reduction in trade flows and smaller inflows of private sector expatriate labor. (The latter, however, still increased by 10% in 2009, much faster than in its neighbors.) 2010 is

likely to see some of these weaknesses ease, helped by the further implementation of large scale industrial and tourism projects as well as by expansionary fiscal and monetary policies (see below). We expect real non-hydrocarbon GDP growth of 4% in 2010, which may turn out to be the trend rate for the next few years.

Internal and external balances Rising government spending is set to support economic growth over the medium term. The 2010 budget outlines a 12% budget-on-budget increase in spending from 2009, with big increases in both current (12%) and capital (11%) spending. The budget arithmetic is complicated by the fact that the government has overspent heavily in

previous years (e.g. by 30% in 2008). As a result, actual spending growth could turn out weaker than projected in the budget, though the level of spending may turn out to be higher.

After dipping in 2009, government revenues could bounce back by 20% in 2010 as a result of higher hydrocarbon receipts, which typically account for around 80% of total revenues. This should see the budget surplus rise from around 2% of GDP in 2009 to 7% in 2010. (See chart 3.) However, the strength of the fiscal position is obscured in the government’s figures by its presentation of hydrocarbon revenues net of transfers to Oman’s various reserve funds, which makes the surplus appear smaller than it is.

Between 2005 and 2008, transfers are estimated (unofficially) to have been worth an average of 11% of GDP per year.

Note that despite the strong fiscal position, the government is still facing longer-

term pressure to rationalize spending and/or broaden the tax base in order to guard against a secular decline in oil revenues.

The NBK report concluded: Meanwhile, the external position weakened considerably last year. Oman typically records a large surplus on its goods balance (around 30% of GDP), which more than offsets deficits in all other areas. However, the goods surplus probably fell sharply owing to a 35% drop in hydrocarbon revenues (driven by the fall in oil prices). As a result, we expect the current account to have been more or less in balance in 2009. (See chart 4.) Higher oil prices should help oil exports recover this year, pushing the current account surplus back up to around 3% of GDP. This is well down on the average of 10% per year seen between 2000 and 2008, reflecting the now higher level of imports.

Inflation slowed dramatically in 2009 to 3.5%, down from 12.5% in 2008. (See chart 5.) The bulk of this decline reflected a deceleration in food price inflation from 22% to less than 1%. Food makes up about one third of the price index and food price inflation is likely to pick up in 2010. In other areas, inflationary pressures may also accelerate somewhat as a result of faster economic growth. We see inflation rising to an average of around 4% in 2010. In the current fragile global growth environment, this increase might be seen as a small price to pay to lock-in a solid economic recovery.

The Omani rial has been pegged at a fixed rate of OR 0.345 per 1 US dollar since the beginning of 1986. This means that Omani monetary policy is driven by corresponding policy changes in US. At the margin, however, the Omani interest rate structure can differ from that in the US somewhat owing to the CBO’s use of sterilization and regulatory controls, plus the relative insensitivity of local deposit flows to interest rates. The CBO’s main tool for absorption of excess liquidity is issuance of Certificates of Deposit (CDs). But as chart 6 shows, the rates on these instruments have (apart from a brief period in 2008) been consistently below those on equivalent dollar deposits. In addition, the CBO uses a repurchase rate to inject funds into the money market. This has been at 2% for more than a year.

Constancio urges more work before action

ECB deputy warns against rushing to slap bank levy MADRID: The new number tw o at the European Central Bank w arned yesterday that ideas for a levy on bank profits, pushed as a w ay to create a buffer against future crises, need much more w ork. Portugal’s Vitor Constancio,

FORT COLLINS, Colorado: Tea Party supporters listen to conservative political speeches during a ‘Tax Day Tea Party’ protest in Fort Collins, Colorado. Tea Party groups held anti-government protests nationwide on the day when Americans must file their annual income tax returns. — AFP

Zimbabwe’s inflation increases to 3.5% HARARE: Rising food prices pushed Zimbabwe’s annual inflation to 3.5 percent in March, a six-fold increase over the -0.7 percent rate posted the previous month, the Central Statistical Office (CSO) said.

“Prices as measured by the all-items Consumer Price Index increased by an average 3.5 percent between March 2009 and March 2010,” the CSO said in a statement.

“The year-on-year food and non-alcoholic beverages inflation prone to transitory shocks stood at 1.23 percent in March while non-food inflation stood at 4.55 percent,” the CSO said.

On Thursday, finance minister Tendai Biti accused local businesses of stoking inflation, saying speculative price increases were creating inflationary pressure. “On analysis, the increase in the inflation figures have largely been food-driven,” he said.

“The inescapable conclusion in the absence of key fundamental inflation drivers that are justifiable is speculation,” he said. Aid agencies say an estimated two million Zimbabweans are in need of food aid after a crisis that saw record-setting hyperinflation wreak havoc on the country’s economy.

In January last year, the government decided to abandon the essentially worthless local currency, allowing trade in US dollars or other foreign currencies.

That quickly stabilized the economy, ending a freefall that had spanned nearly a decade and allowing some businesses to begin piecing together their shattered operations.

But the use of multiple currencies has brought erratic pricing practices as businesses set their own exchange rates between US dollars, South African rands and other currencies. — AFP

Both Sweden and the European Commission have come up with plans due to be discussed informally by European Union finance ministers meeting in Madrid yesterday.

Constancio said levy ideas could only be properly assessed after tests on separate proposals to regulate banks’ capital liquidity, “because we need to assess the overall impact of everything that is now being studied regarding future regulation of the banking sector.”

“It’s a little bit premature,” he underlined. “I also think that if governments want to go ahead, that this be linked with deposit guarantee schemes and possibly used only for restructuring and resolution problems of the banking sector itself, not for any other purposes.”

Mario Draghi, who represents the Bank of Italy at the ECB, also insisted that the levy’s broader economic impact-with wide variations in suggested levels-had to be examined fully first.

He said banks were already losing “more and more” through write-downs on credit losses.

Europe’s financial services overlord, France’s Michel Barnier, warned on Friday that deals on banking regulation were needed quickly if anything stronger than “artificial” controls are to be put in place. “I hear ministers and bankers telling me: go easy, if you ask for capital requirements that are too great, we won’t have any money left with which to finance the economy.

“I remind them of the costs of the crisis,” Barnier underlined, adding it was “unacceptable for taxpayers, because we hadn’t drawn up new mechanisms, to be forced to pay for the mistakes and over-the-top actions of certain actors within the financial system.” — AFP

w ho w as voted into office last month by leaders of the 16 euro nations, told reporters that proposals to tax banks, w hich emerged amid anger over huge taxpayer bailouts, could not be set up in isolation.

MADRID: Protestors stage a tug of war action between bankers and social institutions outside a meeting of the euro-zone finance ministers in Madrid on Friday. The demonstration was held regarding the ‘Robinhood tax’ which taxes financial institutions and transactions. — AP

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

Stocks face hurdle with Goldman and earnings Strong earnings and forecasts from Intel Corp earlier in the week had created more optimism for a strong earnings season. As a result, the market could see knee-jerk reactions to the results from each major company.

The data calendar is relatively light next week with March reports on the US Producer Price Index, home sales, durable goods orders and leading economic indicators on tap. That could keep attention on the financial sector with a Senate vote on financial reform likely in the coming weeks. Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid told reporters on Thursday he hopes to get the final bill on the floor next week.

A draft bill to regulate the $450 trillion over-the-counter derivatives market was unveiled on Friday, taking a tougher tack against big banks. The charges against Goldman could provide more ammunition in favor of reform, said Dan Ripp, president of Bradley Woods & Co Ltd, in New York.

“It’s an argument for more oversight, more precautions,” Ripp said. “Those things are just not good for Wall Street.”

Congress is pushing to rein in some of the risky practices that helped trigger the financial meltdown that led to the recession. However, some have argued more regulation is not necessarily the answer.

“The problems we have with the financial services sector are not because it’s not regulated enough. The problem is that the people who were in charge of enforcing the rules and regulations that were already on the books were asleep at the wheel,” Ripp said.

If there’s a sense of deja vu to the market, it’s because we’ve seen this before with the market rallying ahead of earnings season-only to sell off as reports roll out.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index has gained 7.9 percent since the beginning of March, but it ended the week nearly flat, thanks to Friday’s 1.6 percent drop. For the

NEW YORK: US stocks will likely hit major speed bumps next week as the bears step up pressure following fraud charges against Goldman Sachs and earnings will need to clear a high bar to give Wall Street a reprieve.

The market got a jolt on Friday as US securities regulators charged Goldman Sachs Group Inc with fraud in the structuring and marketing of a debt product tied to subprime mortgages.

Investors wondered whether the lawsuit from the Securities and Exchange Commission could be a harbinger of similar moves against other banks. It could also turn up the heat on financial regulation reform as Democrats push to get legislation to the Senate floor.

“It certainly looks like this could be the beginning of a period where you have a regulatory cloud over Goldman Sachs and perhaps even the entire investment banking industry,” said Hank Smith, chief investment officer of Haverford Trust Co, in Philadelphia.

Investors are fearful that stricter regulation will take a bite out of bank profits without adequately protecting against another financial crisis in the future.

Meanwhile, the market faces a harried week for quarterly results with 11 Dow components and 123 S&P 500 companies releasing results.

But even strong results may not be enough to push stocks higher. After the S&P 500’s rally of 76 percent from last March’s 12-year lows, analysts say stocks could already be “priced to perfection” and companies will need to show blockbuster numbers in order to be rewarded.

Case in point: Google. The company posted a 23 percent jump in revenue, but it fell short of Wall Street’s most bullish expectations, and the stock tumbled 7.6 percent on Friday.

WALL STREET WEEKLY OUTLOOK

week, the Dow Jones industrial average rose 0.2 percent and the Nasdaq Composite Index climbed 1.1 percent; the S&P 500 dipped 0.2 percent.

“Expectations are sky high and this is the third earnings cycle where the market rallied with huge expectations only to have a pullback started in the second week of

earnings,” said Burt White, managing director and chief investment officer at LPL Financial, in Boston.

The index of leading economic indica-

tors for March will kick off the week.

Investors expect a gain of 1 percent, far exceeding the gain of just 0.1 percent the month before, according to economists polled by Reuters. The overall PPI, a gauge of inflation at the wholesale or producer prices level, is anticipated to rise 0.4 percent in March, compared with a drop of 0.6 percent the month before. Core PPI, excluding volatile food and energy prices, is forecast to gain just 0.1 percent in March, matching February’s increase of 0.1 percent.

Thursday’s weekly initial jobless claims are expected to slip to 460,000 from 484,000 the week before. Existing home sales for March, also due on Thursday, are expected to rise to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.28 million units from a pace of 5.02 million in February.

New home sales for March, set for release on Friday. are expected to rise to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 330,000 units, the Reuters poll showed, compared with a pace of 308,000 in February.

Lastly, durable goods orders are expected to rise 0.3 percent in March, compared with February’s gain of 0.9 percent.

Durable goods are manufactured goods such as washing machines, intended to last three years or more. Heavy hitters on the earnings agenda include tech giants International Business Machines and Microsoft, while on the financial front, Citigroup, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and The Travelers Cos Inc, also will issue their quarterly scorecards.

But after such a strong market rally, investors could be left searching for cheap places to put their money. “I’m happy I have these stocks, but those were decisions made a long time ago. But what do we buy now?” said Bernie McGinn, president of McGinn Investment Management, in Alexandria, Virginia. — Reuters

Goldman stock plunges nearly 13% on SEC charges

Goldman charges rattle markets NEW YORK: World stock markets dropped on Friday after US regulators charged Goldman Sachs Group Inc w ith fraud related to subprime mortgages, w hile the euro dropped on w orries about Greece’s debt crisis. The CBOE Volatility index jumped 15.54 percent as US stocks ended the session dow n more than 1 percent in the heaviest volume of the year. The VIX, w hich is Wall Street’s favorite gauge of investor fear, surged just as the Goldman new s head-

lines came out, according to Reuters charts. Investors moved money into safe-haven US government debt, pushing prices higher and yields low er. World equities moved in sympathy w ith US stocks, w hich w ere under severe selling pressure as financial issues plunged on the charges against Goldman Sachs and some disappointing earnings. The decline w as the market’s biggest in nearly tw o months, taking the shine off a six-day w inning streak.

NEW YORK: People enter the Goldman Sachs headquarters in the Lower Manhattan area of New York on Friday. The government has accused Goldman Sachs & Co of defrauding investors by failing to disclose conflicts of interest in mortgage investments it sold as the housing market was faltering. — AP

Interest rates drop after govt charges Goldman NEW YORK: Interest rates tumbled in the bond market Friday after the government charged Goldman Sachs & Co with fraud related to mortgage investments. The Securities and Exchange Commission charged in a civil complaint Friday that Goldman didn’t disclose that a client helped to create and then place bets against subprime mortgage securities that Goldman sold to investors. Concern over the reach of the ramifications on Goldman and other banks sent Treasury prices higher and pushed down yields. In the stock market, the Dow Jones industrial average fell 126 points.

The yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note maturing in February 2020 fell to 3.77 percent in late trading from 3.84 percent Thursday. Its price rose 18/32 to 98 26/32.

The yield on the 10-year note is linked to rates on mortgages and other consumer loans. The 10-year yield reached 4 percent earlier this month after government debt auctions added more supply to the market and after stronger economic reports signaled a recovery is occurring.

The rise in Treasury prices came after news of the SEC’s civil charges against Goldman came out and traders worried that other major banks may also come under scrutiny for their roles in trading securities backed by subprime mortgages. Goldman Sachs rejected the charges and said it plans to fight them.

In other trading, the yield on the two-year note that matures in March 2012 fell to 0.96 percent from 1.02 percent. Its price rose 4/32 to 100 3/32. The yield on 30-year bond that matures in February 2040 fell to 4.67 percent from 4.72 percent, while its price climbed 24/32 to 99 7/32.

The yield on the three-month T-bill that matures July 15 was flat at 0.15 percent. Its discount rate was 0.16 percent. — AP

Chile’s Pinera announces $8.43bn plan to rebuild SANTIAGO, Chile: President Sebastian Pinera announced his $8.43 billion plan Friday to finance Chile’s reconstruction with tax increases, new government debt and withdrawals from the country’s copper savings. Pinera announced the four-year plan from the docks of the ravaged port of Coronel, which was hit by a tsunami after the Feb. 27 earthquake.

The president said one phase of his government’s response was ending, as basic services returned to the affected southern regions and families recovered the remains of the nearly 500 dead. But the sense of urgency remains. “We are now racing against the winter rains,” Pinera said in imposing a deadline to provide 40,000 temporary shelters by June, when winter arrives in the southern hemisphere.

The natural disaster will cost Chile an estimated $30 billion, more than two-thirds of which will be shouldered by the private sector and insurance companies.

Pinera, who assumed office March 11, proposed a temporary increase of the corporate tax rate and copper royalties paid by the country’s major mining operations, as a well as a permanent increase of tobacco and highend real estate taxes.

He did not specify how much local and foreign debt Chile would issue or how much the country would draw on the sovereign wealth fund that has grown to $11 billion with the copper boom in recent years.

The proposed taxes would raise some $3.14 billion for the four-year plan, and Pinera has promised cuts in government spending to provide an additional $733 billion during that period.

The president also has suggested that Chile could sell state-owned businesses not tied to its core mining concerns, such as its 40 percent interest in the energy company Edelnor, valued at nearly $900 million. But Pinera’s first major legislative proposal opened cracks in the political unity that marked his first month in office.

The center-left opposition accused the billionaire president of “privatizing the reconstruction” after he

This photo released by La Moneda press office, Chile’s President Sebastian Pinera sits in a police helicopter before flying over Concepcion, Chile. Pinera announced a plan to finance Chile’s reconstruction after a devastating earthquake. — AP proposed tax incentives for private donations that would add roughly $155 million to public recovery efforts.

Patience is also wearing thin among Chileans who have lived seven weeks in the quake-ruined region. On Friday in Coronel, 300 miles (500 kilometers) south of Chile’s capital, police prevented protesters from delivering a letter to the president with their complaints about reconstruction delays.—AP

Goldman fell nearly 13 percent in its worst one-day drop since January 2009, to $160.70 on huge volume after the Securities and Exchange Commission sued it for fraud tied to collateralized debt obligations that contributed to the worst financial crisis since the Great Depression.

“It’s going to take a while for the markets to digest this as investors weed out what it could mean for Goldman and if other banks could be hit with something similar,” said Tom Lydon, president of Global Investment Trends in Newport Beach, California.

Defaults on subprime mortgages and the unraveling of related derivatives and debt played a major role in the credit crunch that led to a meltdown on Wall Street and the worst US recession since the 1930s. At the close, the Dow Jones industrial average was down 125.91 points, or 1.13 percent, at 11,018.66, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index was off 19.54 points, or 1.61 percent, at 1,192.13. The Nasdaq Composite Index lost 34.43 points, or 1.37 percent, at 2,481.26.

The MSCI’s global equity index settled down 1.57 percent, though still set for its seventh straight weekly gain. The pan-European FTSEurofirst 300 also was down 1.52 percent.

Overall, global shares edged off 16-month highs as persistent uncertainty over Greece’s ability to pay its debts tempered optimism over the global economic recovery.

In currencies, the dollar was up against a basket of major trading-partner currencies, with the US Dollar Index up 0.37 percent at 80.778 from a previous session close of 80.482.

The euro remained pressured and Greek bond yields rose after Athens said it was preparing to activate an IMF/EU financial aid package.

The euro was down 0.54 percent at $1.3506 from a previous close of $1.3579. Against the Japanese yen, the dollar was down 0.95 percent at 92.11 from a previous session close of 92.990.

The euro slid for the second day due to renewed worries over Greece’s ability to service its sovereign debt. On Thursday, the euro snapped a five-day winning streak as investors’ concerns escalated about Greece’s debt problems. Greece lurched closer toward asking for international aid after it requested official talks with European authorities and the International Monetary Fund.

European Central Bank President JeanClaude Trichet told euro-zone finance ministers that the situation for Greek banks remains difficult and could deteriorate further. The cost of insuring Greek sovereign debt rose about 10 basis points from Thursday’s close to 428.5 bps, according to CMA DataVision. Greek 10year bond yields rose to 7.4 percent, widening the 10-year Greek/German government bond yield spread.

US Treasury debt, investors’ favorite safe haven, rose. The benchmark 10-year US Treasury note was up 17/32, with the yield at 3.77 percent, while the 2-year US Treasury note was up 3/32, with the yield at 0.96 percent. The 30-year US Treasury bond was up 22/32, with the yield at 4.67 percent.

In energy and commodities trading, US light sweet crude oil fell $2.40, or 2.81 percent, to $83.11 per barrel, and spot gold fell $21.35, or 1.84 percent, to $1,136.60. The Reuters/Jefferies CRB Index was down 3.46 points, or 1.24 percent, at 276.29. — Reuters

ATEHNS: People walk past lottery tickets advertising a 3.5 million euro weekly jackpot on a main shopping street in central Athens on Friday.

European officials said on Friday Greece did not request financial help at a meeting of all 16 countries that use the euro in Madrid. — AP

Wall St to be driven by tech, financial sectors NEW YORK: US stocks ended the week on a sour note after top firm Goldman Sachs was charged with fraud but analysts see a buoyant Wall Street amid positive outlook for the technology and financial sectors.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average breached the psychological 11,000 point level for the first time in 18 months and closed Friday at 11,018.66, eking out a slim gain of 0.2 percent for the week.

The tech-rich Nasdaq posted a weekly gain of 1.1 percent to 2,481.26 while the broad-market Standard & Poor’s 500 slipped 0.2 percent to end the week at 1,192.13.

Financial stocks led a broad selloff Friday after Goldman was sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for fraud related to mortgage securities, ending six consecutive sessions of gains on Wall Street. Still, analysts said the market had not lost its upward momentum with bouts of healthy profit taking.

“The big question is whether this is the beginning of a normal pause-to-refresh or just a little churn before going higher,” said Wells Fargo Advisors chief market strategist Al Goldman.

“Well, bull markets give ground begrudgingly and this bull is surely following that pattern,” he said.

With key companies such as chipmaker Intel and JPMorgan Chase both posting profits that easily exceeded expectations, analysts at Charles Schwab & Co said the technology sector could continue to help pace the recovery while the financial sector might be set to contribute more to the economic prosperity. “The trend in the economy has shown continued improvement, and investors are looking

to earnings reports for further moves in the market, trying to discern whether earnings will be strong enough,” they said in a client note.

Analysts expect economic indicators the coming week, such as producer prices, and sales of new and existing homes, to add support to forecast of continued non-inflationary economic growth in the first half of 2010.

“The rising crescendo of positive economic signals in the past several weeks is definitely encouraging for the sustainability of the recovery,” IHS Global Insight US economists Brian Bethune and Nigel Gault said in a report.

“But recent sharp fall backs in consumer and small business confidence are potential speed bumps in the short-term spending and hiring outlook,” they cautioned.

On Friday, a key barometer, the University of Michigan consumer sentiment index’s preliminary reading for April fell to 69.5, from a final March reading of 73.6, the lowest level since November 2009. Economists had forecast the index to climb to 75.0.

Both the critics and the sympathizers of the American consumers are “missing a very big and bullish story,” said Ed Yardeni, president of Yardeni research.

He cited the “real” pay per worker in the United States, which he said had been hovering at a record high over the past six months, based on the monthly personal income data released by the government.

“It is highly correlated with productivity, which soared to a new high at the end of last year.

This suggests that real pay will soon do the same,” Yardeni said. — AFP

TECHNOLOGY

Sunday, April 18, 2010

27

In Apple-Google mobile world, is Microsoft just an also-ran?

SAN FRANCISCO: It’s never pretty to see a giant fall, but it always makes for a good story.

As gadget lovers and technology pundits have been obsessing over the last week about the fateful struggle between Google and Apple to control the mobile internet, one name was conspicuous by its absence.

Microsoft, which just a few years ago dominated the most crucial areas of computing, is now considered such an also-ran in the most important area of consumer technology that its name was hardly mentioned in coverage of the great iPhone-Android showdown.

That’s a very bad sign for the Seattle software giant, as the world moves from the PC paradigm dominated by Microsoft to the age of the mobile internet, where it seems the largest tech company in the world may be little more than a wannabe.

Though Microsoft is still the most highly valued technology company in terms of market worth, a quick glance in the company’s rearview mirror shows the sleek and sexy silhouettes of Apple and Google fast closing in.

Google has long been seen as a potential rival to Microsoft. But it’s only in the last year that it has become abundantly clear what form

that challenge would take, as the web search company unveiled its own operating systems for laptops, netbooks and mobile phones.

Underlying these developments is the principle that all the data and programs that users need can reside on Google’s servers, where they can be accessed and manipulated by simple machines connecting to “the cloud.”

Google’s market cap of about 182 billion dollars is still almost 100 billion dollars below that of Microsoft.

But Apple is fast closing in as investors reacted almost as enthusiastically as traditional Apple fanboys to the launch of the company’s iPad

tablet computer and the announcement of a new operating system for the iPhone.

The company’s stock price, which almost tripled last year, now values Apple at some 220 billion dollars, a mere 45 billion dollars behind Microsoft.

That might seem like a lot of money to most people. But in the trillion-dollar high-tech market, it’s a gap that can be quickly closed when investors flock to one company’s shares and the other’s share price stalls. This is rapidly happening as Google and Apple dominate the mobile internet, which according to Morgan Stanley analyst Mary

Meeker will see more users than the PC internet by 2013.

Microsoft seems to have not noticed this trend, according to tech consultant Andrew Hartung.

“Microsoft chose to invest in defending and extending its PC software business as the market shifted toward mobile computing,” he says.

“Microsoft has been clobbered largely because it remained stuck trying to protect its core while the market shifted away.”

Nothing less than a revolution can help Microsoft retain its status as the world’s top tech company, adds analyst Carmi Levy.

“Microsoft needs to replace its

core OS and productivity software businesses, and as PCs give way to mobile devices as the dominant global platform, the urgency only grows,” he says. “If Microsoft fails to establish sustainable, marketleading revenues in mobile, it could forever be relegated to niche status in the PC market.”

Microsoft leaders are trying to move in the mobile direction.

This week, they announced the KIN mobile-phone series aimed at social networkers. Later this year will see the first phones running Windows Phone 7, which is designed to be more attractive than both the iPhone and Google’s

Android platform for diverse groups of customers ranging from business users to serious gamers.

The company is said to be working on an iPad killer called the Courier, which features a dualscreen tablet. There’s no word on when or if it will ever come to market - but when it does it will likely face stiff competition not only from the iPad but from many other tablets powered by Google’s Android. “You’ve got to walk before you can run,” says Levy, referring to Microsoft’s late start in the mobile market. “In this race, both Google and Apple are already far ahead.” —dpa

New dimension to online dating

Robot hand lets internet users touch and feel online CHICAGO: In this file photo taken on Saturday, April 3, 2010 people look at the new Apple iPad on the first day of iPad sales at Best Buy in Chicago. —AP

Spend $499 on iPad: Done. What else do iGet? SEATTLE: For $499 consumers can buy Apple’s iPad, a power adapter, a cable for connecting to a computer and not much else — other than an overwhelming urge to spend at least $200 more.

The advertised price for the least expensive iPad might help entice more than just the well-todo geek elite, but the cost of owning one usually turns out to be higher. Apple postponed the US launch of the product from March to April 3 and delayed plans for the international launch until late in April.

To protect this sparkling gem of a gadget, one might pick out a $39 neoprene cover. Using the iPad more like a laptop and type on keys rather than a touch screen, a person will need a $69 keyboard dock.

The iPad comes with basic applications, including a Web browser, e-mail program, YouTube video player and a mapping program, but consumers are likely to want other apps that cost a few bucks each, plus songs, videos and e-books.

Consumers inclined to investing that much might spend $99 more to double the length of the iPad’s warranty to two years.

For most products, it’s not worth buying the extended warranty. But it could be wise on the iPad because no one yet knows how long the battery or other parts will last with everyday use.

Replacing a dying battery after the warranty expires, which Apple Inc. prohibits iPad owners from doing themselves, would cost about $106.

Jolie Monea accidentally broke the screen on her iPhone, so she was sure to get the neoprene cover that zips around her $499 iPad for storage or travel. But removing the iPad from the cover to play with it made her nervous, so she returned to an Apple store to buy one that doesn’t hide the device’s screen but still can protect the iPad when it’s in use.

She also got the $99 AppleCare extended warranty and was considering the keyboard dock.

That adds up to more than $800 — before Washington state’s 9.5 percent sales tax, and before spending on ownloadable apps. Monea says she looks for fresh iPhone apps about twice a week, and spends $5 to $10 on new ones every

week. In a year, if her habit is the same for the iPad, that’s another $250 to $500, bringing her total to well over $1,000. Josie Liming, a photographer, wasn’t sure she’d need a cover for her iPad, but decided after a few days that the answer was yes.

“It’s so small, I can fit it in my bag that I carry every day with me,” she said. “I’m just scared to death it’s going to get scratched up with keys.”

Buying an Apple gadget is never the end of the story, said Kenji Obata, who runs a technology startup called Spoon. He knew when he bought the $599 version of the iPad, which has twice as much data storage space as the $499 model, that he’d want more accessories.

“With Apple, you know it’s coming,” he said.

The University Village Apple store in Seattle is having a hard time keeping the Apple-brand protective covers in stock. The slim black covers, which double as prop-up stands, have sold out at least twice since the iPad went on sale April 3, employees said.

NLU Products LLC makes scratch-resistant films that people can buy for $19.95 and apply to their iPad screens. The company said sales have been 20 percent to 30 percent higher since the iPad’s launch. A crafts site, Etsy.com, sells more than 200 handmade iPad bags and covers from $10 to more than $50.

Or iPad owners can try an alternate type of protection, the $20 iBallz. It’s a set of four rubbery balls that fit over the corners of the iPad and let it bounce, not shatter, if dropped accidentally.

Not everyone who buys an iPad is ready to swallow all these extra costs, of course.

Joseph Holmes, a fine-art photographer, turned down the extended warranty because his credit card company already doubles the warranty protection for consumer electronics. He also isn’t sure about paying $5 or $10 for iPad apps, which seem more expensive than iPhone apps so far.

But there’s something pristine about the iPad he wants to protect, even if he has to pay.

“I just don’t want to lay the iPad down,” Holmes said, “and scratch the beautiful onyx Apple logo on the back.” —AP

Family: US school snared 1,000s of webcam images PHILADELPHIA: A suburban Philadelphia school district snapped secret webcam pictures of a high school student when he was partially undressed or sleeping in his bed, and captured instant messages he exchanged with friends, the student charged in court papers this week. The Lower Merion School District concedes its efforts to find missing school-issued laptops was misguided, and officials vowed anew Friday to release the findings of their internal investigation, “good and bad.”

The LANrev software program took screen shots and webcam photos every 15 seconds when activated. The district thereby captured over 400 screen shots and webcam images of Harriton High School sophomore Blake Robbins, according to court filings this week in his lawsuit.

The suit, filed in February, exposed the tracking program

and prompted an FBI investigation into possible wiretap violations, along with debate among parents about whether to support the potential classaction lawsuit. “A substantial number of webcam photos have been recovered in the investigation,” school board President David Ebby said in a statement Friday. “As we have made clear since day one, we are committed to providing all of the facts — good and bad — at the conclusion of the investigation.” Lawyers involved in the case met Friday afternoon to discuss pending issues in the case. Mark Haltzman, who filed the lawsuit on behalf of Robbins and his family, said evidence now shows the district used the tracking software for non-authorized reasons — for instance, when students failed to pay the required insurance or return the laptops at year’s end. At least once, a name mix-up led the district to

activate the wrong student’s laptop, he charged.

According to Haltzman, technology coordinator Carol Cafiero refused to answer his questions at a recent deposition, citing her constitutional right against self-incrimination. She and technician Michael Perbix were the only employees authorized to activate the webcams. Perbix did not fight the deposition.

Haltzman called Cafiero a possible “voyeur” and wants access to her personal computer to see if she downloaded any student images. To support the charge, he cited her response to an e-mail from a colleague who said viewing the webcam pictures was like watching a “soap opera.” “I know, I love it!” Cafiero allegedly replied. Her lawyer, Charles Mandracchia, did not immediately return a message Friday, but has said his client did nothing wrong. —AP

HONG KONG: You can already talk to and see your friends and loved ones a new dimension to online dating, scientists of the Chinese University of online. Now a robotic hand has been invented that allows you to touch and Hong Kong have created a cyber hand that uses the electrical impulses crehold hands with them over the internet too. In a development that could add ated by muscles to send hand movements through users’ computers.

At the moment the hand, which connects to an electronic wristband, is only capable of basic movements such as gripping, waving and making “V” signs for peace and “O” for okay.

However, the scientists behind the development say with more research investment and some technological fine-tuning, it could one day be capable of a whole range of movements.

It may even be possible to custom-make exact copies of a person’s hand to give a more real and personal experience, they said. Professor Liu Yunhui, who led the team of researchers, said A robotic hand has been invented that allows you to touch and hold hands with them over the internet in a new the robotic hand is able to development that could add a new dimension to online dating. almost instantly imitate the original motion of the human hand and offer the feeling of touch.

The cyber hand is now awaiting a patent and is expected to be on sale in time for Christmas with a price tag of between 30 and 50 US dollars for one hand with wristband and sensors. But users will need to buy a pair to take full advantage of the cyber jobs, as they offer more templates, Xilisoft Video Converter WASHINGTON: If you want to particitouch experience. effects, pan and zoom features, and wiz(http://www.xilisoft.com/video-convertpate on YouTube these days, you have Liu’s team unveiled the gadards that make throwing together a er.html), which will take your large file to know a thing or two about working get at an international technolomovie from a camcorder a click, cut and and split it up into whatever size or with video files. gy expo in Hong Kong this drag affair.

Unfortunately, they can be quite a bit length you specify. week.

In addition to Premiere Elements, A growing number of video editing more difficult to handle than, say, word The hand, he said, works by consider Corel’s VideoStudio software include an automatic “upload processor or even digital image files. using the electrical impulses (http://bit.ly/Yw9zY), which tends to to YouTube” feature to make this Video files are big, for one thing, and generated by muscles as they get high marks for its ease of use. process even easier. Microsoft’s free the number of formats available means contract.

Also, don’t forget the free options.

Windows Live Movie Maker you’ll have to keep an eye on compatiThese signals are picked up Microsoft’s Movie Maker is part of the (http://bit.ly/bJuGji) is one of these. bility and conversion issues. Read on by a electromyography sensor Windows Live package of free add-on Corel’s Video Studio is another. for some tips. worn like a watch on the forearm programs, available to any registered of the person making the moveWindows user. Movie Maker is Q: Some basic video editing software Q: I’d like to upload videos to YouTube. ments. The computer receives arguably the easiest of video editing came with my camcorder. Before I How do I get started? Which video forthe signals and uses software to packages to use. The latest version upgrade to the “full” version of the mat do I need to use? analyze them and work out includes some nifty features, such as software I received, though, I’d like to A: First, you must have an account which muscle is being used and the ability to upload directly to know which packages are considered on YouTube. If you don’t already, sign the strength of each movement.

YouTube. the best? up.

This information is then A: The video editing software marIt’s free and easy to do. transmitted over the internet to Q: I have some video files on my hard ket is roughly divided into two segOnce you have your account, you’ll the receiving computer, where ments: packages that are geared toward drive in the FLV format. What is that find an Upload link to the right of the the signals are translated into and how can I convert the files to anothmain Search box. Just click that link and professionals and packages that are instructions for the receiver’s er format? geared toward the camcorder/enthusiyou’ll be taken to the Video File Upload robotic hand.

A: FLV, short for Flash Video ast market. page. From there, click the Upload “At this moment the function Content, is a file format originally The two high-end packages that are Video button and you’ll get a standard is not perfect and it can’t copy most often referenced are Sony’s Vegas developed to deliver video over the file selection dialog box. exactly, partly because the robot internet using the popular flash stanPro If you upload videos this way, hand is different from the human dard, now controlled by Adobe. (http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/ YouTube expects you to have your hand in terms of the degree of FLV, however, is not as widely vegassoftware) and Adobe’s Premiere video in a format and length acceptable freedom of movement it has,” recognised by media players as are Pro to the site, and that’s where you need Liu said. He said there were still other formats, such as AVI, MOV, WMV (http://www.adobe.com/products/preto know what you’re doing. some delays in processing and and MPEG or MPEG4. Therefore, conmiere). Both packages are fairly expenThe preferred file formats for videos mechanical problems, but version does sometimes become necessive, retailing at around 500 dollars. uploaded to YouTube are FLV or believed it would be possible to sary.

MPEG-2 or MPEG-4. Most video editproduce more sophisticated and Windows Live Movie Maker will open Sony offers no scaled-down version ing programs can export to either more dexterous movements in FLV files, and from there you can save of Vegas for non-professionals, but flavour of MPEG. You’ll also need to the future. the movie to the WMV format or publish Adobe does with Premiere Elements make sure your video is no larger than “The main obstacle we have it directly to YouTube. To add an FLV to (http://www.adobe.com/products/pre2 GB in size or longer than 10 minutes. at the moment is the cost. Our Movie Maker, click the “Add videos and miereel), which you can find for a much Exceeding either restriction will result project target was to produce a photos” button on the toolbar and navimore palatable 70 dollars or so. in YouTube rejecting the video file. toy. It was intended to be low gate to the file on your hard drive.

You would probably be wise to start So let’s say you have a long, 30cost and so there were conAnother free option is the popular off with a consumer-level video editing minute video and you’d like to upload it straints because of the money open source program VLC Media Player package, unless you know you need in three segments to YouTube. You can we could spend,” Liu said. (http://www.videolan.org/vlc), which something in the pro version. Typically, either “split” the video into three seg“If you want high dexterity, it can play and convert a great number of the less expensive packages are in fact ments in your favourite video editing is possible, but you need more video formats. —dpa package, or you can use a utility such as better suited to quick and fun video motors and you have to spend more money.”

Prototypes have a basic design but Liu said talks were already underway with a manufacturer to create a silicon rubber hand that would be temperature-controlled to give it a more natural appearance and feel, or have different sizes.

It would also be possible to have one custom-made by scanning a hand and asking the manufacturer to replicate it, he said.

“But it would be costly.”

Liu said the original intention of the research team had been to develop something that could help families keep in touch.

“Although they can show their care through phone calls, physical touch is still a better way to express love. With the system, elderly people and their children and grandchildren can touch and hold hands via the In this product image provided by Adobe Systems Inc., the Creative Suite 5 is shown. Creative Suite 5 includes internet and show affection an upgrade of the Photoshop software that makes it easier to detect the borders of images within a photograph, directly,” he said. —dpa among other new features. —AP

the computer helper

Getting your videos on YouTube

28

HEALTH & SCIENCE

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Global temperatures hit hottest March on record: US agency WASHINGTON: Global temperatures fueled

by El Nino seasonal warming last month chalked up the hottest March on record, US weather monitors reported.

“Warmer-than-normal conditions dominated the globe, especially in northern Africa, South Asia and Canada,” the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said in a statement.

Combined global land and ocean average surface temperature for March 2010 was the

warmest on record at 13.5 degrees Celsius (56.3 degrees Fahrenheit), which is 0.77 degrees Celsius above the 20th century average of 12.7 C, it said.

Average ocean temperatures were the hottest for any March since record-keeping began in 1880, while the global land surface was the fourth warmest for any March on record, NOAA said, citing analysis from the National Climate Data Center.

It added that the January-March period

was the planet’s fourth warmest on record.

The US agency cited two Asian examples of high March mercury: Tibet had its second warmest March since records began in 1951, it said citing the Beijing Climate Center, while Delhi, India had its own second warmest March since 1901 record-keeping, according to the India Meteorological Department.

Cooler-than-normal temperatures prevailed in some locations, however, including Mongolia, eastern Russia, northern and west-

ern Europe, northern Australia, western Alaska and the southeastern United States, NOAA said.

The agency also pointed to Arctic sea ice as a temperature indicator, and said this was the 17th consecutive March in which Arctic sea ice coverage was below average.

Last month’s average coverage of 15.1 million square kilometers (5.8 million square miles) was 4.1 percent below the 1979-2000 average, the agency said.

NOAA stressed that while El Nino, the weather anomaly which wreaks havoc on normal weather patterns from the western seaboard of Latin America to east Africa, weakened to a moderate strength in March, “it contributed significantly to the warmth in the tropical belt and the overall ocean temperature.”

El Nino was expected to maintain its influence in the northern hemisphere “at least through the spring,” NOAA said.

The record March temperatures are likely to be seen as evidence backing the case of those who believe climate change is an urgent crisis which must be addressed at the global level.

The United Nations and several countries have called for a legally-binding agreement on climate change, but at a summit in Copenhagen in December states failed to agree on a deadline to reduce carbon emissions that cause global warming. — AFP

Sweden, Canada outrank US on healthcare: Poll WASHINGTON: People living in countries with government-run healthcare systems like Sweden and Canada are far more confident than Americans that their families can get good, affordable care, according to a 22-nation survey released last week.

The Ipsos/Reuters online poll found 75 percent of Swedes and nearly 70 percent of Canadians thought it would be fairly easy to get treatment if a relative became ill, compared to just 51 percent of Americans.

Conducted while the US Congress fought over sweeping changes to expand access to health insurance, the November 2009 to January 2010 survey found Americans were divided over their access to healthcare. The US health reforms became law last month.

“Even at this very divisive time, half of the (US) public was basically satisfied with their healthcare” said Darrell Bricker of Ipsos, a global survey-based market research company.

“Americans are basically split on this.”

The United States spends more than any other nation on healthcare-roughly 16 percent of its economy-but still has higher rates of infant mortality, diabetes and other illnesses than other rich countries.

Still, not all countries with a government hand in healthcare reported greater satisfaction, according to the poll, which surveyed more than 23,000 people worldwide.

Just 55 percent of residents in Britain, which has nationalized healthcare, expressed confidence while 45 percent of those in Germany

thought it would be easy to access treatment.

In Japan, which provides universal medical care, just 15 percent said they thought a relative could easily get affordable, quality care. The Asian nation boasts a high life expectancy but is grappling with health costs as the elderly make up more than 40 percent of the population.

Other countries that ranked low in satisfaction included Hungary, Russia and South Koreaall of which showed confidence in good care at less than 30 percent.

The survey also found that neighboring giants India and China had vastly different experiences, with 64 percent of Indians citing confidence, putting them fifth behind the Netherlands. In China, 34 percent said they thought they could get good care.

Across all countries, women, adults younger than 55, the poor and the less-educated reported lower satisfaction with their access to healthcare, the survey found.

Ipsos surveyed 23,351 adults in 22 nations that account for 75 percent of the world’s gross domestic product.

Countries polled were: Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Britain, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Poland, Russia, Spain, South Korea, Sweden and the United States.

Respondents were recruited and screened, then results were balanced to reflect the country’s demographics, according to Ipsos. The margin of error is plus or minus 3.1 percent. — Reuters

Could thinner girls be more at risk from breast cancer?

TEXAS: After surviving ovarian cancer and having a sister, grandmother and great aunt with breast cancer, Michaela King-Klose (center) decided to reduce her chances of breast cancer by having a prophylactic double mastectomy. Here, Klose spends quality time with her boys and 20-month-old William at their home in Dallas. — MCT

Recommends women get tested for HPV when they get their Pap smears

Doctors, patients focus on preventing cancer DALLAS: Rhonda McCartt was in shock when a mammogram and biopsy revealed precancerous cells in her breast. In the past, such a diagnosis would have been a signal to wait and worry, with close monitoring to Which is why Dr David Euhus, professor of surgical oncology at UT Southwestern Medical Center, immediately put McCartt on Tamoxifen.

The drug, which interferes with the activity of estrogen, has been used for more than 30 years to treat breast cancer and has been used to reduce the risk of breast cancer in high-risk women for the last 10. Despite the sickness she felt in the first few months of taking the drug, McCartt, 48, of St Paul, Texas, near Wylie, says it was worth it.

“I feel really good on it now.

It’s not bothering me at all,” McCartt says. “And it’s given me peace of mind.” That’s the kind of relief that doctors are seeking with an increasingly preventive approach of early detection and medications, says Dr Therese Bevers, medical director of the cancer prevention clinic at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.

Bevers was personally involved in the study that showed the cancer-prevention properties of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene, which had previously been used primarily to counter osteoporosis.

“I do think we’ve come a huge way in the past 10 years,” Bevers says, noting that recent breakthroughs in preventing cancer include Gardasil and Cervarix, vaccinations that reduce a woman’s chance of getting certain types of papillomavirus, which can lead to cervical cancer. She also recommends that women get tested for HPV when they get their Pap smears.

Pap smears test for premalignant and malignant activity in the cervix, while HPV screenings can catch cellular changes at an earlier stage, she explains. If the HPV is positive, that means a woman is at higher risk. “The world of cancer prevention is exploding,” Bevers says. “There is a great deal of investigation.

One study is looking at a cholesterol medication, and others are looking at anti-inflammatory drugs to see if they will reduce the development of colon polyps.”

This preventive focus reflects a fresh approach to cancer - a pre-emptive strike instead of a retaliatory war.

The reasoning is that in many cases, by the time cancer is detected, it is too late to save the patient. The odds improve greatly if doctors can stop cells or tumors from developing into cancer or remove cancerprone tissue before problems start. Bevers says that MD Anderson has released new guidelines for identifying people with a high risk of developing cancer so that they can receive more sophisticated tests, such as genetic testing, which could indicate early intervention.

In the case of breast cancer, that might mean a preventive removal of cancer-prone tissue. Michaela King-Klose, 33, of Dallas was at high risk because she has a sister, grandmother and great-aunt with breast cancer and she had recently had cancer on her ovaries and appendix. She opted for a prophylactic double

PARIS: Girls who are thin at the age of seven are at higher risk of breast cancer after menopause than chubbier counterparts and more vulnerable to a worse type of tumour, according to a Swedish study published.

The surprising conclusion is made by Karolinska Institutet researchers who looked at data from 2,818 Swedish breast cancer patients and 3,111 healthy counterparts.

“Large body type at age seven years was associated with a decreased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer,” said lead researcher Jingmei Li.

“It appears counterintuitive that a large body size during childhood can reduce breast cancer risk, because a large birth weight and a high adult BMI have been shown to elevate breast cancer,” Li added.

“There remain unanswered questions on mechanisms driving this protective effect.”

BMI means body mass index, a measure of fat.

A girl’s BMI at the age of seven also drove the risk of socalled oestrogen receptive negative tumours, where the outcome is often less favourable than other cancer types, said the study.

The paper is published

online in an open-access, peerreviewed journal, Breast Cancer Research.

Separately, in a paper published on Wednesday in the journal Nature, scientists drew a map of 20 genetic mutations behind a highly lethal, fastspreading form of breast cancer.

So-called “triple negative” breast cancer disproportionately affects younger women and those who are AfricanAmerican.

The gene profile came from a 44-year-old African-American woman who was killed within months after breast cancer spread to her brain. — AFP

see whether the cells became cancerous. These days, as doctors detect potential cancers earlier, they’re also trying to stop cancer before it starts.

mastectomy. King-Klose liked that the surgery would reduce her odds of getting breast cancer to less than 5 percent, she says. She wasn’t willing to wait around and worry about what seemed inevitable to her.

“I had just had a baby in July of ‘08,” she says. “I have three young boys under the age of 10. I have to live for them.”

The next best thing to stopping cancer before it starts is detecting it early before it spreads. Dermatologists such as Dr Melissa Costner at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas pay special attention to patients who have more than 30 moles or multiple pigmented lesions or who have a history of childhood sunburns or exposure to tanning beds because of their greater risk of skin cancer.

Costner routinely uses magnifying tools that allow her to catch things that she might miss with the naked eye.

“I’ve caught a melanoma or two that I wouldn’t have otherwise seen, using this polarized magnified light,” she says. Just as movies are moving to 3-D, so is medical technology. Dr. Rassa Shahidzadeh, a gastroenterologist with Dallas Diagnostic Association on the Baylor Plano medical staff, uses a thin, 6,000-pixel fiberoptic diagnostic tool called a Spyglass that allows him a look into the bile duct and diagnose potential problems in the bile duct, pancreas and liver without an abdominal incision.

“There are bile duct tumors that are benign that

can become cancerous,” he says. “The big problem with bile duct, pancreatic and liver tumors is that if they’re imbedded deep in the tissue, just getting a diagnosis through surgery or needle biopsy can run the risk of complications and spreading or seeding of cancers. And sometimes by the time you diagnose them through conventional means, they are too late to treat.” Dr Katherine Hall, a radiologist and medical director of the Women’s Diagnostic and Breast Center at Presbyterian, is doing clinical trials with a new 3-D mammography machine. The technology, called tomosynthesis, is not yet approved by the FDA, but it holds promise for catching breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue, Hall says.

McCartt illustrates the importance of all people getting properly screened no matter their level of risk or, in her case, the seeming absence of it. McCartt had no family history of cancer, had stayed fit and had eaten a healthy diet.

She is grateful that her precancerous cells were identified and the problem could be curbed before it started to grow. “I’m a fine example of the importance of getting your annual mammogram,” she says. “If I hadn’t gone, I don’t know what would have happened.”

There is a clear correlation between obesity and cancer, according to a November report by the American Institute for Cancer Research.

It went so far as to link excess body weight to more than 100,000 cancers in the US annually. Researchers from the American Cancer Society cited this connection as far back as 2003.

In fact, the only issue in doubt among most experts is why. Some say increased weight causes an increase in the amount of hormones, such as estrogen, or an increase in low-grade inflammation in the body, both of which are theorized to increase cancer risk.

Dr David Euhus, professor of surgical oncology at UT Southwestern Medical Center and director of the Cancer Genetics and Risk Assessment Program at the Simmons Cancer Center, believes the true culprit is insulin resistance, which increases with weight gain and a sedentary lifestyle.

“Breast cancer risk increases in the years prior to a diagnosis of diabetes,” says Euhus, who is working with researchers at UT Southwestern to explore his ideas. “Women with higher levels of circulating insulin have higher breast cancer rates.”

Euhus is examining medicines such as Metformin, which heightens insulin sensitivity, as possible cancer preventives. His preferred prescription, which he gives to all his patients, is a healthy lifestyle, he says. “Losing weight can decrease breast cancer risk. We need to come up with more effective weightloss strategies.” — MCT

EYJAFJALLAJOKULL: Smoke billows from a volcano in Eyjafjallajokull.

Iceland’s second volcano eruption in less than a month has sent plumes of ash and smoke billowing more than 20,000 feet (6,000 metres) into the sky. — AFP

Eruption may hurt people with breathing problems GENEVA: The eruption of an Icelandic volcanic that has paralysed air traffic in much of Europe could also harm people with breathing problems, the World Health Organisation said yesterday.

The UN health agency said the fine particles in the ash cloud were not harmful so long as they remained in the upper atmosphere, but could be more problematic if they fell to earth.

About a quarter of the ash particles were believed to be less than 10 microns in size, the most dangerous because they could penetrate deeper in the lungs, the WHO said in a statement.

“People with chronic respiratory conditions like asthma, emphysema or bronchitis may be more susceptible to irritation if ash is in the lower atmosphere in high concentrations,” it said. “If people are outside and notice irritation in their throat and lungs, a runny nose or itchy eyes, they should return indoors and limit their

outdoor activities.”

A British expert on respiratory disease said ash falling on Britain was unlikely to cause much harm.

“There is a massive diluting effect in the atmosphere as it gets dispersed by wind which means the amount reaching land is very small,” Ken Donaldson, professor of respiratory toxicology at the University of Edinburgh, told Reuters.

The WHO said people with asthma or respiratory problems should take “normal precautions” such as those on days with high air pollution, for instance avoiding strenuous exercise.

Donaldson agreed that people with lung disease should stay indoors if there was a measurable change in particle levels.

The eruption which began on Wednesday has caused chaos in European air travel not seen since the Sept. 11 attacks in the United States nine years ago. — Reuters

Sunday, April 18, 2010

HEALTH

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Breast milk banks help the needy FORT COLLINS: When both of her sons were born prematurely, Keely Shaw wanted to feed them breast milk to bulk them up. But because her body wasn’t yet making enough milk, Shaw, of Arvada, Colo, turned to a nationwide system that collects donated milk from nursing mothers and distributes it to babies in need. Shaw’s two boys received milk donated through the Mothers’ Milk Bank at Presbyterian/St Luke’s Medical Center in Denver until she could provide enough of her own, she says.

“I think it must be similar to what people who receive donated blood must feel,” Shaw says. This kind of gift is so personal and can be monumental for those who receive it.” With a growing number of doctors saying breast milk is the best food for babies, especially hospitalized preemies struggling to gain weight, the demand for milk donations is increasing. The amount of donated milk distributed by the 10 banks of the Human Milk Banking Association of

Milk bank managers say federal, state and local health authorities are more aggressively promoting breast milk than in the past, prompting the demand from mothers who can’t provide enough for their own children.

North America is growing rapidly, but is still far below what’s needed, says Pauline Sakamoto, president of the association.

Milk bank managers say federal, state and local health authorities are more aggressively promoting breast milk than in the past, prompting the demand from mothers who can’t provide enough for their own children. About 2,000 women donated breast milk through the banks in 2008, Sakamoto says, and many more helped their friends through informal arrangements.

Three new milk banks are forming in Kansas City, Mo, Newton, Mass, and

Portland, Ore, she says. Hospitals pay a handling fee of $3 to $5 an ounce for the donated milk collected by the milk banks, which they test, pasteurize and freeze until it’s needed.

Milk banks have simply formalized a system that has been around for thousands of years, says Bettina Forbes, director of the advocacy foundation Best for Babes, which helps mothers fight the societal “booby traps” they face if they choose to breastfeed. “There’s sort of a yuck factor with breastfeeding and breast milk,” she says. “But it’s like donated blood.” Mandy Belfort, a neonatologist at Children’s Hospital Boston,

says some women don’t produce enough milk, often because their babies are born early.

Actress Alysia Reiner, who gave birth to a daughter, Livia, in December 2008, tells of a close friend whose daughter was born about six months later. Her friend struggled to produce enough milk, so the two agreed to share. “I had a freezer full of liquid gold and didn’t want it to go to waste,” says Reiner, who has appeared in the movie “Sideways” and in various television shows. Donating milk is “is simply an area so many women don’t know about,” she says. “They say ‘What, a milk bank? No way.’” Sakamoto

says although most babies can feed on either formula or breast milk, physicians say breast milk is generally best.

“There’s also some evidence that pre-term babies who receive breast milk have better developmental outcomes than babies that receive formula,” Belfort says. “In New England, we are starting to talk more and more about using donor milk more routinely.” La Leche League International, which advocates breastfeeding, believes donated breast milk provides an important option for women who can’t breastfeed, says spokeswoman Loretta McCallister.

“Breast milk will help the baby get up to

the good birth weight. It has antibodies that help fight infections, and helps them develop.”

A 3-month-old baby can consume up to a quart of milk a day, says Laraine Lockhart Borman, manager of Mothers’ Milk Bank at Presbyterian/St. Luke’s in Denver. Most women produce more than enough, she says. “Some mothers produce enough for triplets or quadruplets.”

Borman notes the milk bank normally has about 100 mothers donating but saw the number drop to about 50 at the turn of the year, creating a shortage of milk, in part due to seasonal flu vaccinations.

Women must be healthy in order to donate through the banks, which require a three-month wait between a woman getting the flu vaccine and resuming donations. Borman says any mother who can give blood is eligible to donate breast milk. Donor mothers use a vacuum pump to extract and bottle the milk. Says Shaw: “Pumping to donate is the very least I can do to repay what was done for us.” — MCT

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WHATʼS ON IN KUWAIT

Sunday, April 18, 2010

The Australian College of Kuwait holds 5th exhibition for job opportunities he Australian College of Kuwait held its 5th Exhibition for job opportunities at the building of the college located in Mishref. This step stands as an emphasis from the Australian College on the significance of scientific and practical qualification of students to assist them in their careers through contact and introduction to companies which provide job opportunities to fresh graduates and trainees since the Australian College is distinguished with its scientific programs which qualify its graduates to direct employment after graduation.

In his welcome speech delivered by Prof Vishy Karri, President of Australian College, expressed his utmost pleasure for holding this exhibition for the fifth consecutive year and emphasized the significance of contact between the students and the companies prior and post graduation in a bid that the fresh graduates find jobs that suit their careers prospects, upgrade the standard of services and to get benefit from the available expertise and potentialities for the sake of State of Kuwait in general.

Prof Vishy Karri stated that the college spares no efforts in providing all the needs of the students including developed scientific and training syllabuses and programs

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to cope with modernization. This is in fact its mission aand the most significant issue is to patronize these graduates and provide the suitable employment jobs to them so as to enable them play their role in society effectively. This responsibility lies on the shoulders of all companies and institutions in public as well as private sectors.

During his round visit in the exhibition, Prof Vishy Karri welcomed the participants and praised their efforts in receiving and patronizing the new fresh graduates and thanked them for their interest in the 5th Exhibition of Australian College for job opportunities and expressed his wishes to keep their support in the forthcoming years.

The exhibition witnessed the participation of 29 companies of various economic sectors including banks, oil, real estate, telecommunications, recruitment services, employment qualification academies, and hospitals. The exhibition also included the participation of the Australian College as an emphasis from its side on the significance of the provision of employment opportunities and on the unlimited confidence in the practical expertise enjoyed by the Australian College students in particular.

Embassy information EMBASSY OF LAO The Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic will be closed today on the occasion of Lao’s New Year and will reopen tomorrow.

EMBASSY OF UKRAINE The Embassy of Ukraine in the State of Kuwait informs that it has started updating the information about Ukrainian citizens, who live and work in Kuwait. In this connection, we are asking you to refer to the Embassy and update your file in consular register in order not to be excluded from it. For additional information please call: 25318507 ext.106 or visit the embassy of Ukraine in the State of Kuwait (address: Hawalli, Jabriya, bl.10, str.6, house 5). The consular section of the Embassy open every day from 09:30 till 14:30 except Friday and Saturday.

Prof Vishy Karri during round visit at the exhibition.

EMBASSY OF INDIA

Perseverance pays off as Bhavans rejoice

Sonal Mashankar

Kavya

Madhura Golla

Sharth Ganesh

Keerthini

Agnish Dutta

Anirudh Agarwal

Sandya Keezhatoor

Tuba Opel

onal Mashankar, one of the quick witted and highly articulate prodigies in the Indian Educational School, (Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan) Kuwait has got her insatiable thirst for knowledge and constant perseverance paid off when the results of National Olympiad 2010 were published. The results raised her to the pinnacle of arithmetic achievement with a shield of recognition for her challenging and meritorious hundred per cent in the Olympiad conducted by the All India Mathematics Teachers Association in the month of January, 2010.

A multifaceted personality, Sonal shows an invariable interest in mathematical problems of mind boggling

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Srivardhan Ramesh

Ligit George

Pavithra

Anjana Krishna

Joanna George complexity and this when nurtured meticulously by her teachers helped her attain this national acclaim.

Together with this reputation there is a long list of gold medalists who have joined in the effort of bringing one more feather in the cap of their school. They are Srivardhan Ramesh (VI), Sharath Ganesh (VI), Keerthini Boothalingam (VII), Pavithra (IX), Kavya (IX), Agnish Dutta (X), Anirudh Ajay Agarwal (X), Anjana Krishna (X), Madhura Golla (X), Tuba Shafquat Opel (X), Sandya Keezhatoor(X), Ligit George (X) and Joanna Biju George (X). The whole Bhavan family take their hat off to these budding wizards of mathematical operations.

Admission to technical institutions in India

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inistry of Human Resources & Development, Govt of India, has entrusted the central coordination of admission under Direct Admission of Students Abroad (DASA) Scheme to NITK Surathkal, Mangalore, Karnataka, India.

Admissions are open for Foreign Nationals / Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) / Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) under DASA Scheme for the

Academic Year 2010-11 to various National Institutes of Technology (NITs), and other premier Institutes (for details refer to www.nitk.ac.in).

Attention of all interested students is drawn to the revised procedure of drawing up the Merit list for allotment of branches and Institutes based on Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT II) subject scores only (Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics Level 2).

Hence, students are advised to register for SAT examination likely to be conducted on June 05, 2010, whose registration date is May 05, 2010.

Please note that students applying under SPDC scheme for seeking admission in NITs are also required to qualify the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT II) examination. This will, however, not affect students seeking admissions under SPDC to other

institutes having an MOU with EdCIL. Complete details about the SAT examination are available at www.collegeboard.com . Detailed admission procedure, online application and brochure for the current revised scheme would also be available on NITK website (www.nitk.ac.in) effective 01.04.2010.

Any queries may be addressed to jsfs@moia.nic.in

Announcement Aware diwaniya The AWARE Center cordially invites those interested to its diwaniya on “Communication and time management,” by Linda Fouke. When asked to identify stress in their lives, adults list ‘time’ as one of the top three sources of stress. Dr Linda is currently a school administrator and former founder of “Room4 Improvement,” a management consulting company, where Linda helped her clients get better organized, increase productivity and decrease their stress levels. If you are looking for tips to improve work performance and remain in control of a busy life, join Dr Linda as she shares ways to hone time management skills on Tuesday April 20 at 7 pm. For more information, please call 25335280/60 ext 105 or e-mail: Htaware.hassan@gmail.com or log onto: www.aware.com.kw” Unveiling fashions of the Middle East Reflections of Who We Are: AWARE & Kuwaiti Youth Volunteers Present: Thursday, April 22 Reflections of Who We Are - “Unveiling the Fashions of the Middle East” A Middle-Eastern-Gulf Country Cultural Clothing Fashion Show & Charity Event (All proceeds will be donated to Animal Friends League) from 7-9 pm at PAAET College, Adaliya. Radiating confidence and reflecting on their cultural roots, Kuwaiti youth join hands with AWARE to model the culturally rich backgrounds of fashion from the Middle-Eastern Gulf Countries. Fashion is a prevailing custom or style of dress selected primarily on one’s national identity & religious beliefs.

Nationals of Middle Eastern Gulf countries enjoy a style uniquely their own while sharing an element of modesty in their traditional dress. We invite you to join for a lively, traditional clothing fashion show as our models present, for the first time, costumes from Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. For further details contact AWARE at 2-533-5280 or email: info@aware.com.kw CHRISCCAA annual meeting Christian College Chengannur - Alumni Association, Kuwait Chapter (CHRISCCAA), executive committee, have decided to conduct its annual general body meeting on Saturday, April 24, at United Indian School, Jleeb, from 8 pm onwards. Presentation of Annual Report, Annual Accounts, selection of Office bearers and executive committee will be held during the meeting. All the association members are requested to attend the meeting. Contact any of the following office bearers for more details.

Mathew Alexander, President (99553036), George Mathew, vice president (94060522), Sunil Thomas, Gen.Secretary (66265702), Jacob Varghese, Treasurer (66223348).

Al-Thaalib Scholarship 2010 Al-Thaalib Scholarship is a financial aid scheme for under privileged school students in Kuwait, sponsored by Islam Presentation Committee (IPC) & Ministry of Awqaf in association with Friday Forum and Pakistan Kuwait Welfare Association. Last year we were able to provide financial assistance to nearly 900 students of various Indian & Pakistani Schools in Kuwait for the academic year 2008-09. These scholarships were given to the needy students irrespective of their religion or nationality. We are pleased to inform that the process for Al-Thaalib Scholarship for the current academic year, 2010-11, has begun for all Indian, Philippine and Pakistani Schools in Kuwait.This year we shall endeavor to reach the scholarship to as many needy students as possible to help them continue with their education without any financial hindrance. In order to avail this scholarship, applicants are requested to collect the Application Form, from Al-Thaalib Office located in CAMS, Ahmed Al-Jaber Street, Darwaza, Near Warba Insurance Co, Int’l Islamic Charity Organization Building, 2nd Floor, Al-Sharq.

The duly filled application form shall be submitted to Al-Thaalib office on or before April 30, 2010 along with all supporting documents specified in the Application Form. For more information, you may contact 55046318 or 22418934 ext 204/202.

The Embassy of India has further revamped and improved its Legal Advice Clinic at the Indian Workers Welfare Center, and made the free service available to Indian nationals on all five working days, i.e. from Sunday to Thursday every week. Kuwaiti lawyers would be available at the Legal Advice Clinic daily from Monday to Thursday, while Indian lawyers would be available on Sundays.

Following are the free welfare services provided at the Indian Workers Welfare Center located at the Embassy of India: [i] 24x7 Helpline for Domestic Workers: Accessible by toll free telephone no.

25674163 from anywhere in Kuwait, it provides information and advice exclusively to Indian domestic sector workers (Visa No. 20) as regards their grievances, immigration and other matters. [ii] Help Desk: It offers guidance to Indian nationals on routine immigration, employment, legal, and other issues (Embassy premises; 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 4.30 PM, Sunday to Thursday); (iii) Labour Complaints Desk: It registers labor complaints and provides grievance redressal service to Indian workers (Embassy premises; 9 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 4.30 PM, Sunday to Thursday); (iv) Shelters: For female and male domestic workers in distress; (v) Legal Advice Clinic: Provides free legal advice to Indian nationals (Embassy premises; Kuwaiti lawyers 3 PM to 5 PM, Monday to Thursday; Indian lawyers 2 PM to 4 PM on Sunday); and (vi) Attestation of Work Contracts: Private sector worker (Visa No. 18) contracts are accepted at the Embassy; 9 AM to 1 PM; Sunday to Thursday; Domestic sector worker (Visa No. 20) contracts are accepted at Kuwait Union of Domestic Labor Offices (KUDLO), Hawally, Al-Othman Street, Kurd Roundabout, Al-Abraj Complex, Office No 9, Mezzanine Floor; 9 AM to 9 PM, Saturday to Thursday; 5 PM to 9 PM on Friday.

EMBASSY OF PHILIPPINES The Embassy of the Philippines wishes to inform the Filipino community in the State of Kuwait, that the recent supreme court decision to extend the registration of voter’s applies only in local registration in the Philippines under Republic Act no. 8189 and does not apply to overseas voters which is governed by Republic Act no. 9189, hence it has no impact on the plans and preparations on the conduct of overseas absentee voting. The overseas absentee voting for presidential elections will continue uninterrupted until May 10, 2010 daily at the Philippine Embassy.

Registered overseas absentee voters are advised to schedule their days off in advance to avoid complications in their schedules. Qualified voters are encouraged to get out and vote.

Information on Cuba he Government of Cuba decided last February 16, that all travelers, foreign and Cubans living abroad, coming to the island from May 1, 2010 and thereafter shall take out a medical insurance policy. To meet such requirement, travelers shall have a travel insurance which covers medical expenses or a policy for medical expenses with coverage in Cuba. For more information when planning your trip to Cuba please, visit our web site or any Cuba embassy or consulate next to you, or any Cuban Tourism Office. You can visit www.cubatravel.cu or at www.asistur.cu

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

31

WHATʼS ON IN KUWAIT

Fun-filled KKK evening uwait Kannada Koota (KKK) held yet another spectacular family get-together for its members on Friday, April 16, 2010. Youngsters competed with each other events like quiz, monoacting, greeting-card making and so on while the grown-ups had competitions like ‘Rangoli’ and a friendly debate on a topic called ‘Should women stay at home or work?’ This invited some vociferous opinions - naturally - from the ladies.

The highlight of the evening was a fun-filled game for couples which elicited cheers and laughter from the audience. The couples were tested on their compatibility and dance-skills, though there was no real competition as everything in goodhumor. This was followed by a sumptuous dinner and more chit-chat over tasty ‘pooris’ and ‘jamoons’. The entire program was ably compeered

by Suguna under KKK’s banner of ‘Maralu Mallige’ or ‘The Sand Jasmine.’

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The Holiday Inn reborn

Vanitha Vedi Kuwait conducts drawing, painting exhibition anitha Vedi Kuwait celebrates Labour’s Day on May 1, 2010 as per our 10th year programs in United Indian School at 2 pm. The program starts with a drawing/ painting competition in five different age groups . There will be a painting and drawing exhibition of the women artist in Kuwait simultaneously. It is followed by a discussion on “Awareness of Women’s rules and regulations in Employment sector” by the eminent lawyer Mrs. Twinkle Anni Chacko and the representative of honorable associations in Kuwait.

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Drawing competition A LKG, UKG, B 3, 4, C 6, 7, D 9, 10 , E Ladies

1 and 2 5 8 11 , 12

Any Medium Crayons/ Pencil Colours Water Colours Pencil Sketch Water Colour

oliday Inn is making spectacular changes to its image evolving the iconic script logo, energizing the signature color green and eliminating the current shield shape. The brand will replace more than 11,000 signs around the world to reflect this refreshed and contemporary look. A new signature arrival - including new lighting, landscaping and design features - will create an energl7cd and branded sense of welcome that is universally recognizable.

In October 2007, IHG announced a worldwide relaunch of the Holiday Inn brand family, the biggest relaunch m the hospitality industry. This meant that all Holiday Inn properties would need to implement a series of property enhancements and upgrades to create a

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more contemporary brand image, higher quality and drive consistency.

Holiday Inn has upgraded all its hallmarks, hotel collaterals, rooms, restaurant collaterals, signage, vehicles, etc to have the new logo and convey its new image.

The General Manager of Holiday Inn Salmiya Mr. Ramy Haykal said “‘there is no question that you either take charge of change - or change will take charge of you! Referring to Mr. Kummons Wilson, the founder of Holiday Inn. We therefore initiated this relaunch to ensure the brand moves into the future with a strong and confident new image so our guests get as much enjoyment from Holiday Inn hotels over the next 50 years as they

have over the last 50”.

Since a differentiated lodging experience cannot be delivered through imagery and product alone, Holiday Inn is committed to providing hest in-class service. As part of the relaunch, the brand will initiate a new service culture - “Stay Real” - to further ensure staff develops the behaviors and skills to best serve guests by treating them as real people and consistently delivering the real, genuine service for which Holiday Inn is known.

The press and media People enjoyed a wonderful lunch at Ayam Zaman restaurant followed by picture taking to record this extremely important milestone in the history of Holiday Inn Kuwait.

Happy Birthday

For Registration Contact: 24342807/24312180/25757840/23727353/67676578/66467579/971143331/97962581/ vanithavedikuwait@gmail.com NB: Ladies can register their names for free English class (IELTS) which will be conducted by Vanithavedi in June and July 2010.

birthday our dear pastor (Emeka Njoku). May God shower His blessing on you and your family as you continue to work in his vineyard. Greetings from wife, brothers, the Redeemed Christian Church of God, friends and well-wishers.

Happy

Swimming is a life skill he British School of Swimming is now taking registrations for the summer course, with entry after the Easter break. Our ever popular Red School, swimming on Sundays and Wednesdays and Blue School, swimming on Mondays and Thursdays have limited vacancies, so please check (phone number below) before you register.

These 2 schools have the full range of childrens’ classes available, from 3 year old beginners up to advanced swimmers.

To cope with the ever increasing number of families wishing to enjoy the benefits of our programme, we have opened the Yellow School which has classes available

T

from 11:00am on Saturdays and from 5:00pm on Tuesdays. There will be 3 levels of beginner classes and 2 levels of intermediate classes available in this school.

The British School of Swimming also offers dedicated classes for ladies and men from beginner to advanced level. We also look after the youngest members of the family with our Water Babies classes. If you would like more information about our swim school, you are welcome to visit us at The British School of Kuwait in Salwa, Block 1, Street 1, any weekday afternoon from 3:30 until 6:30pm Alternatively you can visit www.bsswim.com or call David on 9965 6305.

Road show event nformation of IEI, Kuwait Chapter and IIT, Bombay, India Road Show event.Who should Attend: Individuals: Mechanical/ Chemical/ Production/ Industrial/ Instrumentation/ Civil/Construction/ Petroleum Engineers in Oil +ACY- Gas, Chemical Process Industry, Power Sector, Cross Country Piping, EPC Companies, Design Contractors +ACY- Consultants, Inspection Agencies, Ship Building Industry, Municipal Corporations in distribution of utilities (gas, water, chilled water), City Gas Distribution etc.

Corporate: Companies in the above manufacturing or service sectors. EPC companies servicing the above sectors.

For more information on the Road Show or Course visit: www.CEPGlobe.com Or write to: gvkshmi+AEA-iitb.ac.in ieikwt+AEA-hotmail.com, Contact M.H. Zaidi (00965 66655185) or Ms. G. Vijayalakshmi (9930980980/9920949937).

I

BEC draw of mega raffle EC Exchange’s 2nd draw of mega raffle, will be held tomorrow at 10 am in BEC head office, Mirqab. All are cordially invited.

B

TV PROGRAMS

32

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Orbit / Showtime Listings

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

House Dawson’s Creek Bones One Tree Hill Dawson’s Creek The Closer CSI House Glee Drop Dead Diva Bones One Tree Hill CSI The Closer Bones Dawson’s Creek Glee Drop Dead Diva House CSI Criminal Minds Cold Case Supernatural Nip/Tuck

00:45 Human Prey 01:40 Untamed & Uncut 02:35 Untamed & Uncut 03:30 Animal Cops Miami 04:25 Animal Witness 04:50 Animal Witness 05:20 Animal Cops Phoenix 06:10 RSPCA: Have You Got What it Takes?

06:35 Dolphin Days 07:00 Meerkat Manor 07:25 Pet Rescue 07:50 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 08:15 The Planet’s Funniest Animals 08:45 Animal Cops Phoenix 09:40 Aussie Animal Rescue 10:05 Austin Stevens: Most Dangerous...

10:55 Miami Animal Police 11:50 RSPCA: On the Frontline 12:15 Going Ape 12:45 Animal Precinct 13:40 Wildlife SOS 14:05 Wildlife SOS 14:35 SSPCA: On the Wildside 15:00 SSPCA: On the Wildside 15:30 Dogs 101 16:25 Into the Pride 17:20 Polar Bears: Living on Thin Ice 18:15 The Animals’ Guide to Survival 19:10 Great Savannah Race 20:10 Austin Stevens Adventures 21:05 Untamed & Uncut 22:00 Untamed & Uncut

00:30 01:30 02:00 Vyle 02:30 03:00 03:30 04:15 05:00 05:15 06:20 06:45 07:05 07:25 07:50 08:10 08:30 08:55 09:15 09:35 10:00 10:30 11:00 13:30 14:15 15:00 15:45 16:15 17:05 17:25 18:10 19:00 19:55 21:40 22:40 23:30

12:00 12:50 14:30 15:25 17:10 17:35 18:00 19:40 20:30 21:20 21:45 22:10 23:00 23:50

The League Of Gentlemen Hyperdrive The Life And Times Of Vivienne Suburban Shootout The Smoking Room Jack Dee: Live At The Apollo Doctor Who Doctor Who Confidential Cash In The Attic Teletubbies Me Too Tweenies Teletubbies Me Too Tweenies Teletubbies Me Too Tweenies Teletubbies Cash In The Attic Cash In The Attic Doctors Bargain Hunt The Weakest Link The Weakest Link Cash In The Attic Doctor Who Doctor Who Confidential Robin Hood Casualty Casualty Hell To Hotel Silent Witness Afterlife Hotel Babylon

00:00 Cash In The Attic 00:45 Cash In The Attic 01:30 Bargain Hunt 02:15 Come Dine With Me 04:20 Chuck’s Day Off 05:10 Trish’s Mediterranean Kitchen 05:35 Gino D’Acampo - An Italian In Mexico 06:00 Saturday Kitchen 06:25 Saturday Kitchen 06:50 Living In The Sun 07:40 Chuck’s Day Off 08:10 Saturday Kitchen 08:40 Saturday Kitchen 09:05 Living In The Sun 09:55 Cash In The Attic 12:10 Saturday Kitchen 13:55 Living In The Sun 14:45 Cash In The Attic 17:00 Bargain Hunt 17:45 Come Dine With Me 19:50 Chuck’s Day Off 20:40 Trish’s Mediterranean Kitchen 21:05 Gino D’Acampo - An Italian In Mexico 21:30 The Naked Chef

A Dog Year on Super Movies 21:55 The Naked Chef 23:10 Boys’ Weekend

01:00 03:00 04:45 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 14:30 17:00 19:00 21:00 23:15

The Hi-Lo Country-18 Nearing Grace-18 Coeurs-PG When We Were Kings-PG15 I Love You, I Love You Not-PG15 Napoleon Part 4-PG Ocean Waves-PG15 Jacquou Le Croquant-PG15 Class Action-PG15 Max-PG15 The Apostle-PG15 Return To Paradise-PG15

00:00 45 Stone Virgin 01:00 Half Ton Teen 02:00 Breaking Point 02:55 Brainiac 03:50 Nextworld 04:45 How Stuff’s Made 05:10 Ultimate Survival 06:05 Mythbusters 07:00 Fifth Gear 07:30 Fifth Gear 07:55 Heartland Thunder 08:50 Street Customs Berlin 09:45 How Stuff’s Made 10:10 Destroyed in Seconds 10:40 Destroyed in Seconds 11:05 Ultimate Survival 12:00 Border Security 17:30 How Stuff’s Made 18:00 Brainiac 19:00 Nextworld 20:00 Breaking Point 21:00 Mythbusters 22:00 Against the Elements 23:00 MacIntyre: World’s Toughest Towns

00:30 01:20 02:10 03:00 03:50 04:45 05:10 05:40 06:10 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:55 13:35 14:30 15:25 15:55 16:50 17:45 18:40 19:05 19:30 20:20 21:10 22:00 22:50 23:40

NYC: Inside Out Cosmic Collisions Human Body: Ultimate Machine Nextworld NYC: Inside Out Weird Connections Weird Connections Test Case Mighty Ships Junkyard Mega-Wars The Gadget Show The Gadget Show Nextworld Human Body: Ultimate Machine Science of Beauty Science of Beauty How Stuff’s Made Mighty Ships Ecopolis Engineered Patent Bending Patent Bending What’s That About?

Space Pioneer NYC: Inside Out Eco-Tech Ecopolis The Gadget Show

00:00 00:20 00:45 01:10 01:35 02:00 02:25 02:45 03:10 03:35 04:00

Suite Life On Deck A Kind Of Magic Phineas & Ferb Fairly Odd Parents Replacements Wizards Of Waverly Place Lazytown Imagination Movers Handy Manny Jungle Junction Suite Life On Deck

04:25 04:45 05:10 05:25 06:00 06:25 06:45 07:10 07:35 08:00 08:25 08:50 09:15 09:40 10:00 10:30 12:00 12:25 12:50 13:15 13:40 14:00 14:25 14:50 15:15 15:35 16:00 16:25 16:45 17:00 17:25 17:50 18:10 18:35 19:00 20:35 21:00 21:25 21:45 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15 23:40

06:00 06:25 06:50 07:15 07:40 08:05 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 17:30 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:30 21:00 21:25 21:50 22:15

Wizards Of Waverly Place Jonas Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Lazytown Imagination Movers Handy Manny Jungle Junction Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Fairly Odd Parents Suite Life On Deck Wizards Of Waverly Place Jonas Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Brother Bear 2 Hannah Montana Jonas Replacements Fairly Odd Parents Sonny With A Chance Suite Life On Deck A Kind Of Magic Phineas & Ferb Fairly Odd Parents Replacements Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Fairly Odd Parents Suite Life On Deck Wizards Of Waverly Place Jonas Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Cheetah Girls 2 Hannah Montana The Suite Life Of Zack & Cody The Suite Life Of Zack & Cody The Replacements Hannah Montana Jonas Replacements Fairly Odd Parents Sonny With A Chance

Jimmy Two-Shoes American Dragon Pokemon DP: Battle Dimension Phineas & Ferb KICK BUTTOWSKI Suite Life On Deck I’M IN THE BAND K9 ADVENTURES Zeke & Luther The Suite Life of Zack & Cody I’M IN THE BAND Suite Life On Deck SHREDUCATION Minute Men Aaron Stone Kid vs Kat Phineas & Ferb KICK BUTTOWSKI Suite Life On Deck I’M IN THE BAND Zeke & Luther Pokemon DP: Battle Dimension Kid vs Kat K9 ADVENTURES SHREDUCATION NEXT X EUROPE Phineas & Ferb The Suite Life of Zack & Cody Zeke & Luther Zeke & Luther Suite Life On Deck Suite Life On Deck Power Rangers Jungle Fury Aaron Stone

00:40 E!es 02:20 Sexiest 03:15 25 Celebrity Near Death Experiences 05:05 Dr 90210 06:00 Ths 07:45 Extreme Hollywood 08:35 E! News 09:25 Ths 11:05 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 11:30 Keeping Up With The Kardashians

Ths Ths Ths Ths Behind The Scenes Behind The Scenes Ths Ths Ths Pretty Wild Pretty Wild E! News Dr 90210 Bank Of Hollywood

00:00 01:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 05:00 06:00 06:00 07:00 07:00 08:00 08:00 09:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:00 11:50 12:00 12:40 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:20 15:00 15:10 16:00 17:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:00

Great British Menu Nigella Express Return of the Chef Nigella Express Giada At Home Nigella Express Nigella Express Giada At Home Iron Chef America Iron Chef America Kitchen Criminals Iron Chef America Kitchen Criminals Iron Chef America Kitchen Criminals Iron Chef America Kitchen Criminals Kitchen Criminals Barefoot Contessa Iron Chef America Barefoot Contessa Iron Chef America Everyday Italian Teleshopping Everyday Italian Teleshopping 30 Minute Meals Teleshopping 30 Minute Meals Rescue Chef with Danny Boome Rescue Chef with Danny Boome Teleshopping Barefoot Contessa Kitchen Criminals Teleshopping Kitchen Criminals Kitchen Criminals Teleshopping Kitchen Criminals 30 Minute Meals Kitchen Criminals

00:30 00:55 01:20 02:10 03:05 04:00 04:25 04:55 05:20 06:10 06:35 07:00 07:50 08:40 09:30 10:20 11:10 12:00 12:50 13:40 14:30 15:20 16:10 17:00 17:50 18:40 19:30 20:20 21:10 22:00 22:50 23:40

Crime Scene Psychics Crime Scene Psychics Ghost Lab A Haunting Psychic Witness Crime Scene Psychics Crime Scene Psychics Real Emergency Calls FBI Files Ghosthunters Ghosthunters Forensic Detectives FBI Files CSU The Prosecutors Forensic Detectives FBI Files On the Run Fugitive Strike Force Diagnosis: Unknown Forensic Detectives FBI Files CSU The Prosecutors Forensic Detectives FBI Files On the Run Fugitive Strike Force Diagnosis: Unknown Murder Shift On the Case with Paula Zahn Deadly Women

01:25 03:15 04:55 06:35 08:25 09:45 11:25 12:50 14:25 15:55 17:45 19:50 22:00 23:35

00:00 00:30 01:30 04:30 05:00 05:30 06:00 06:30 07:00 07:30 10:30 11:00 11:30 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 14:30 15:30 16:30 17:00

The Offence House Of Games Exposed Scandal The Secret Of N.I.M.H. The Black Stallion Returns The Fantasticks Doc Nobody’s Perfect The Rose Garden The Russians Are Coming Nicholas Nickleby The Tie That Binds Woman of Straw

Word Of Mouth Word Travels:The Truth Behind The Ride: Alaska to Patagonia Treks In A Wild World Food Lovers Guide To The Planet Food School Word Of Mouth Word Travels:The Truth Behind Word Travels:The Truth Behind The Ride: Alaska to Patagonia Treks In A Wild World Wild Rides Lonely Planet Bondi Rescue - Bali Bondi Rescue - Bali Weird And Wonderful Hotels Weird And Wonderful Hotels Jailed Abroad Jailed Abroad Positive Footprints Wild Rides

17:30 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:30 22:30 23:00 23:30

00:00 01:00 02:00 02:30 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 19:30 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Lonely Planet Bondi Rescue - Bali Bondi Rescue - Bali Weird And Wonderful Hotels Weird And Wonderful Hotels Jailed Abroad Jailed Abroad Positive Footprints Wild Rides Lonely Planet

Animal Impact Bite Me With Dr. Mike Leahy Indonesia Beyond the Reefs Vultures On The Verge Predator CSI The Real Serengeti Kangaroo Kaos Animal Impact Bite Me With Dr. Mike Leahy Indonesia Beyond the Reefs Vultures On The Verge Predator CSI The Real Serengeti Dangerous Encounters Africa’s Lost Eden Wild Chronicles Monkey Thieves Cheetah: Against All Odds Dogtown Kalahari Dangerous Encounters Africa’s Lost Eden Wild Chronicles Monkey Thieves Cheetah: Against All Odds Dogtown Kalahari Dangerous Encounters

00:00 How I met your mother 00:30 Gary Unmarried 01:00 The Daily Show with Jon Stewart 01:30 The Colbert Report 02:00 Late night with Jimmy Fallon 03:00 Flight of the Conchords 03:30 Curb your Enthusiasm 04:00 Sauturday Night Live 05:00 How I met your mother 05:30 Late Night with Jimmy Fallon 06:30 Everybody Loves Raymond 07:00 Dharma & Greg 07:30 Three sisters 08:00 Frasier 08:30 Tyler Perry’s House of Payne 09:00 The Nanny 09:30 George Lopez 10:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 10:30 Dharma & Greg 11:00 Frasier 11:30 The Bernie Mac show 12:00 The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson 13:00 Gary Unmarried 13:30 Yes dear 14:00 The Nanny 14:30 Malcolm in the Middle 15:00 How I met you mother 15:30 The Daily Show with Jon Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 Drew Carey 17:00 Everybody Loves Raymond 17:30 Frasier 18:00 Eight Simple Rules 18:30 Just Shoot me!

19:00 Better Off Ted 19:30 The Office

00:00 The Martha Stewart Show 01:00 Downsize Me 02:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 03:00 The Monique Show 04:00 The Tonight Show with Jay Leno 05:00 GMA Weekend (Repeat) 06:00 Moms Get Real / Now you know / Amplified 07:00 GMA Health 07:30 What’s the Buzz 08:00 The Martha Stewart Show 09:00 Downsize Me 10:00 Jimmy Kimmel Live!

11:00 The View 12:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 13:00 The Martha Stewart Show 14:00 Parenting 14:30 Popcorn 15:00 GMA Weekend Live 16:00 Ahead of The Curve 16:30 Chef’s Table 17:00 The Tonight Show with Jay Leno 18:00 Downsize Me 19:00 The View (repeat) 20:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 09:00

Adulthood-18 The Understudy-PG15 Closed For Winter-PG15 Skin-PG The Perfect Child-PG15 For One More Day-PG15 Confessions Of A Shopaholic-PG Fireproof-PG The Perfect Child-PG15 Leatherheads-PG15 The Vintner’s Luck-PG15 Snakes On A Plane-18

Blood: The Last Vampire-18 The Vanishing-PG15 Resident Evil: Degeneration-PG15 Thor: Hammer Of The Gods-PG15 Stargate: Continuum-PG15

11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 21:00

The Vanishing-PG15 The Shepherd-PG15 Stargate: Continuum-PG15 Boa-PG15 Smokin’ Aces-18 Dark Island-PG15

00:00 Mama’s Boy-PG15 02:00 Kettle Of Fish-18 04:00 King’s Ransom-PG15 06:00 Before You Say I Do-PG15 08:00 The Odd Couple 2-PG15 10:00 The Coneheads-PG15 12:00 Home For The Holidays-PG 14:00 Clueless-PG15 16:00 Mama’s Boy-PG15 18:00 The Birdcage-18 20:00 Tenacious D In The Pick Of Destiny-PG15 22:00 National Lampoon’s Ratko-18

00:00 Barney’s Great Adventure-FAM 02:00 Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium-FAM 04:00 D3: The Mighty Ducks-PG 06:00 The Trumpet Of The Swan-FAM 08:00 The Three Robbers-PG 10:00 D3: The Mighty Ducks-PG 12:00 Yogi Bear And The Magical Flight Of The Spruce Goose-PG 14:00 Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium-FAM 16:00 The Jungle Book II-FAM 18:00 Harriet The Spy-PG 20:00 Aussie And Ted’s Great Adventure-PG

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 04:30 05:00 06:00 06:30 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 20:00 21:00

Psych Law & Order: Criminal Intent Breaking Bad Survivor : Samoa Every Body Loves Raymond Coach 24 Emmerdale Coronation Street In Treatment In Treatment Every Body Loves Raymond Coach Survivor : Samoa 24 In Treatment In Treatment Emmerdale Coronation Street Every Body Loves Raymond Coach Psych Law & Order: Criminal Intent 24 Survivor : Samoa Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ex-list Law & Order: Criminal Intent Law & Order

00:00 06:00 06:30 07:00 15:00 15:30 17:30 18:00 20:00 22:00 22:30 23:00

Premier League Premier League Classics Premier League World Premier League Live Toshiba Super Sunday Live Premier League Live Toshiba Super Sunday Live Premier League Premier League Premier League World Futbol Mundial Live Portuguese Liga

00:00 02:00 04:30 06:30 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 15:30 17:30 18:00 20:00 22:00

Premier League AFL Toyota Premiership Super 14 ICC Cricket World Premier League Rugby League Challenge Cup Rugby League Challenge Cup Premier League Live Toshiba Super Sunday Live Premier League Live Toshiba Super Sunday Live Premier League Premier League Premier League

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 12:00 16:00 16:30 20:00 20:30 21:00

Rugby League Rugby League Challenge Cup Guinness Premiership Mobil 1 The Grid ICC Cricket World Live PGA European Tour Live Snooker World Championship World Sport Live Snooker World Championship Premier League World Futbol Mundial Live Snooker World Championship

00:00 01:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 09:00

UFC - The Ultimate Fighter WWE Bottomline V8 Supercars Series NCAA Basketball Live V8 Supercars Series WWE Vintage Collection WWE Bottomline

10:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 23:00

WWE NXT V8 Supercars Series NCAA Basketball LG Action Sport WWE Smackdown V8 Supercars Series UFC 112 WWE Smackdown

01:00 02:30 04:30 06:30 09:00 11:00 13:00 PG15 15:00 17:00 19:00 PG15 21:00 23:00

Act Of God-PG15 Evening-PG15 Broken Lines-PG15 Genghis Khan-PG15 Momma’s Man-PG15 Rocky Balboa-PG15 Things That Hang From TreesThe Children Of Huang Shi-PG15 Momma’s Man-PG15 The Boy In The Striped PyjamasForever Strong-PG A Dog Year-U

01:15 Viva Las Vegas 02:40 Bad Day At Black Rock 04:00 The Alamo 07:00 Rhapsody 08:55 The File Of The Golden Goose 10:50 On The Town 12:25 Welcome To Hard Times 14:05 Rhapsody 16:00 My Favorite Year 17:30 The Screening Room 18:00 The Wonderful World Of The Brothers Grimm 20:05 Mogambo 22:00 Cisco Pike 23:35 The Happening

00:30 Dead Men’s Secrets 01:20 Cities of the Underworld 02:10 Egypt: Land of the Gods 03:00 Beyond The Moon: Failure Is Not An Option 2 04:50 Ancient Discoveries 3 05:40 Eliot Ness 06:30 Dead Men’s Secrets 07:20 Cities of the Underworld 08:10 Egypt: Land of the Gods 09:00 Beyond The Moon: Failure Is Not An Option 2 10:50 Ancient Discoveries 3 11:40 Eliot Ness 12:30 Dead Men’s Secrets 13:20 Cities of the Underworld 14:10 Egypt: Land of the Gods 15:00 Beyond The Moon: Failure Is Not An Option 2 16:50 Ancient Discoveries 3 17:40 Eliot Ness 18:30 Dead Men’s Secrets 19:20 Cities of the Underworld 20:10 Egypt: Land of the Gods 21:00 Lost Worlds 21:55 Seven Deadly Sins 22:50 Life After People 23:40 Ax Men 2

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 05:30 06:00

Clean House My Celebrity Home How Do I Look?

Split Ends Dr 90210 Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane Area How Do I Look?

07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Style Star Style Her Famous Clean House My Celebrity Home Ruby Giuliana & Bill Dallas Divas & Daughters Giuliana & Bill Married Away: Italian Wedding Dress My Nest How Do I Look?

Giuliana & Bill Ruby

01:04 01:45 02:00 02:45 08:04 08:45 13:04 15:00 15:24 16:04 16:35 17:00 18:00 18:45 20:04 20:45

Sound System Playlist Urban Hit Playlist Africa Playlist Urban Hit 30 Code Compilation Playlist New Playlist Focus Urban Hit Playlist French Only Playlist

00:00 01:00 02:00 02:30 03:00 04:00 04:30 05:00 05:30 06:00 06:30 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 18:30 19:00 19:30 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00

Globe Trekker Oregon Uncovered Special Chef Abroad Chef Abroad Planet Food Top Travel Destination Art Distant Shores Distant Shores Distant Shores Distant Shores Globe Trekker Globe Trekker Swiss Railway Journeys Swiss Railway Journeys Intrepid Journeys Oregon Uncovered Special Globe Trekker Planet Food Chef Abroad Chef Abroad Floyd On Africa Travel Today Globe Trekker Grannies On Safari Spring Distant Shores Wild At Heart Angry Planet Culture Shock Temples In The Clouds Rajasthan - A Colourful Legacy Globe Trekker

01:00 Vh1 Music 05:00 Chill Out 07:00 Smooth Wake Up 09:00 Vh1 Music 11:00 Vh1 Pop Chart 12:00 Top 10 AC/DC 13:00 Cover Power 14:00 Robbie Williams Weekend 17:00 Music For The Masses 18:00 Vh1 Music 19:00 Vh1 Viewer’s Jukebox Love Request 20:00 Vh1 Viewer’s Jukebox Love Request 21:00 Top 10 AC/DC 22:00 Sunday Soul 23:00 Storytellers Kaney West

Snakes On A Plane on Show Movies

Star Listings (UAE Timings) STAR Movies 20:15 Predator 22:00 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Iii 23:35 A Sister’s Secret 01:15 VIP Access 01:45 A Woman’s Rage 03:20 Predator 05:05 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Iii 06:40 The Happening 08:10 Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End 10:55 Predator 12:40 54 14:10 Halloween: Resurrection 15:40 One Fine Day 17:30 Get Shorty 19:10 Predator 2 STAR World 20:00 American Idol 21:00 October Road 22:00 [V] Tunes 23:00 [V] Tunes 00:00 Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?

01:00 [V] Tunes 02:00 7th Heaven 03:00 Scrubs 03:30 The King Of Queens 04:00 Samantha Who? 04:30 Samantha Who? 05:00 EAST WEST 06:00 Grey’s Anatomy

07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 09:30 10:00 10:50 11:00 11:50 12:00 13:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:30 16:00 16:50 17:00 17:50 18:00 18:50 19:00 19:50

Samantha Who? Rules Of Engagement [V] Tunes The King Of Queens The Bold And The Beautiful 7th Heaven Charlie’s Angels Grey’s Anatomy Who’s The Boss?

[V] Tunes Asia Uncut Scrubs The King Of Queens Samantha Who? Samantha Who? 90210 Jackie Chan Adventures Mental Charlie’s Angels The Listener Who’s The Boss?

Criminal Minds Jackie Chan Adventures

Granada TV 21:00 Fat Club 21:30 City Cabs (Series 1) 22:00 Young, Posh and Loaded 22:30 The Sunshine Girls 23:00 Come Dine With Me (Primetime Series 2) 00:00 Divas **

01:00 Stars In Their Eyes (Series 12) 02:00 Prime Drama: Beating Jesus 04:00 60 Minute Makeover (Series 3) 05:00 Warzone 06:00 Coronation Street (Weekend Omnibus) 07:30 Dirtbusters 08:00 The Inside Guide To (Series 3) 09:00 Fat Club 09:30 City Cabs (Series 1) 10:00 Confessions Of 10:30 House of Horrors (Series 3) 11:00 Vroom Vroom (Series 2) 12:00 Hell’s Kitchen (UK Series 3) 13:00 I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!

(Series 7) 14:00 Parkinson (Series 7) 15:00 Life Begins (Series 2) 16:00 Vroom Vroom (Series 2) 17:00 Hell’s Kitchen (UK Series 3) 18:00 I’m A Celebrity...Get Me Out Of Here!

(Series 7) 19:00 Parkinson (Series 7) Channel [V] 21:00 [V] Tunes 21:30 [V] Tunes 22:00 Loop 23:00 [V] Tunes 23:30 [V] Tunes 00:00 [V] Tunes 01:00 XO

01:30 02:00 03:00 05:00 05:30 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 09:30 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 15:30 16:00 17:00 17:30 18:00 19:00 20:00

Loop Backtracks [V] Countdown [V] Tunes [V] Tunes Loop [V] Tunes [V] Tunes [V] Special XO Loop Backtracks Videoscope [V] Special [V] Tunes [V] Tunes Loop Amp Around Asia [V] Tunes [V] Special XO Loop Backtracks Videoscope [V] Special

Fox News 00:00 America’s News HQ Host host Brian Wilson 01:00 America’s News HQ Hosts Kelly Wright and Jamie Colby

02:00 The Journal Editorial Report 02:30 Fox News Watch 03:00 Glenn Beck with Glenn Beck 04:00 America’s News HQ hosts Gregg Jarrett and Julie Banderas 06:00 America’s News HQ hosts Rick Folbaum and Juliet Huddy 07:00 FOX Report Saturday host Julie Banderas 08:00 Huckabee with Mike Huckabee 09:00 Geraldo At Large with Geraldo Rivera 11:00 The Journal Editorial Report 11:30 Fox News Watch 12:00 FOX Report Saturday 13:00 Geraldo At Large with Geraldo Rivera 14:00 Huckabee with Mike Huckabee 15:00 FOX Report Saturday host Julie Banderas 16:00 Geraldo At Large with Geraldo Rivera 18:00 The Journal Editorial Report 18:30 Fox News Watch 19:00 FOX and Friends Sunday hosts David Briggs, Alisyn Camerota & Clayton Morris 20:00 FOX and Friends Sunday hosts David Briggs, Alisyn Camerota & Clayton Morris 21:00 FOX and Friends Sunday hosts David Briggs, Alisyn Camerota & Clayton Morris 22:00 America’s News HQ hosts Eric Shawn & Jamie Colby National Geographic Channel 20:00 Warplanes -Airplane To Air Force 21:00 Air Crash Investigation -Air Crash

Investigation Specia : Fatal Fix 22:00 Megastructures -Megastructure : UK Super Train 23:00 Shark Men -Big Mama 00:00 Trapped -Alive In The Andes 01:00 World’s Toughest Fixes -Solar Tower 02:00 Megastructures -Megastructure : UK Super Train 03:00 Nat Geo Junior -Monkey Thieves : The Great Escape 9 03:30 Nat Geo Junior -Wild Chronicles : 9 04:00 Food Lovers Guide To The Planet -Daily Bread 3 04:30 Food Lovers Guide To The Planet -Digital Critics 6 05:00 Shark Men -Big Mama 06:00 Street Monkeys -Exiles 07:00 Locked Up Abroad -Boy Soldiers 08:00 Food Lovers Guide To The Planet Ancient Traditions 08:30 Food Lovers Guide To The Planet -Oaxaca Style 09:00 Monkey Thieves -Searching For Sanctuary 16 09:30 Monkey Thieves -Urban Exile 17 10:00 Shark Men -Big Mama 11:00 Trapped -Alive In The Andes 12:00 LG Borderless presents Nat Geo -Mega Factories : Audi 13:00 Theme Week -Inside: Undercover In North Korea

Sunday, April 18, 2010

33 Flight Schedule Arrival Flights on Sunday 18/04/2010 Airlines Flt Route Ariana 405 Kabul/Dubai Royal Jordanian 802 Amman Wataniya Airways 188 Bahrain Wataniya Airways 306 Cairo Kuwait 544 Cairo Wataniya Airways 408 Beirut Gulf Air 211 Bahrain Turkish A/L 772 Istanbul Wataniya Airways 322 Sharm El Sheikh Jazeera 513 Sharm El Sheikh DHL 370 Bahrain Emirates 853 Dubai Etihad 305 Abu Dhabi Jazeera 241 Amman Qatari 138 Doha Jazeera 503 Luxor Falcon 201 Dubai Jazeera 527 Alexandria Kuwait 412 Manila/Bangkok British 157 London Jazeera 481 Sabiha Kuwait 206 Islamabad Kuwait 382 Delhi Jazeera 529 Assiut Iran Air 615 Shahre Kord Kuwait 302 Mumbai Kuwait 332 Trivandrum Fly Dubai 053 Dubai Kuwait 676 Dubai Kuwait 284 Dhaka Emirates 855 Dubai Arabia 121 Sharjah Kuwait 286 Chittagong Qatari 132 Doha Iran Air 603 Shiraz Etihad 301 Abu Dhabi Iran Aseman 6801 Ahwaz Jazeera 425 Bahrain Falcon 203 Dubai Gulf Air 213 Bahrain Wataniya Airways 182 Bahrain Wataniya Airways 102 Dubai Jazeera 165 Dubai Jazeera 447 Doha Jazeera 113 Abu Dhabi Jazeera 171 Dubai Egypt Air 610 Cairo Oman Air 645 Muscat Kuwait 672 Dubai Kuwait 774 Riyadh United A/L 982 Washington Dc Dulles Royal Jordanian 800 Amman Wataniya Airways 432 Damascus Jazeera 257 Beirut Wataniya Airways 422 Amman Kuwait 562 Amman Kuwait 512 Tehran Saudi Arabian A/L 500 Jeddah Qatari 134 Doha Jazeera 173 Dubai Bahrain Air 344 Bahrain Etihad 303 Abu Dhabi Emirates 857 Dubai Gulf Air 215 Bahrain Wataniya Airways 402 Beirut Saudi Arabian A/L 510 Riyadh Jazeera 239 Amman Jazeera 367 Deirezzor Arabia 125 Sharjah Jazeera 511 Sharm El Sheikh Jazeera 343 Sanaa/Bahrain Srilankan 227 Colombo/Dubai Wataniya Airways 304 Cairo Kuwait 166 Paris/Rome Wataniya Airways 106 Dubai Kuwait 542 Cairo Kuwait 502 Beirut Kuwa1t 618 Doha Kuwait 786 Jeddah Jazeera 177 Dubai Kuwait 744 Dammam Kuwait 614 Bahrain Kuwait 674 Dubai Kuwait 102 New York/London Singapore A/L 458 Singapore/Abu Dhabi Kuwait 552 Damascus Fly Dubai 061 Dubai Oman Air 647 Muscat Middle East 402 Beirut Rovos 081 Baghdad Wataniya Airways 404 Beirut Jazeera 459 Damascus DHL 372 Bahrain Jazeera 183 Dubai Gulf Air 217 Bahrain Emirates 859 Dubai Kuwait 172 Frankfurt Qatari 136 Doha United A/L 981 Bahrain Indian 981 Chennai/Ahmedabad Jazeera 429 Bahrain Jazeera 117 Abu Dhabi Jazeera 449 Doha Safi A/W 215 Kabul Lufthansa 636 Frankfurt Jazeera 185 Dubai India Express 389 Kozhikode/Mangalore KLM 0447 Amsterdam/Bahrain Pakistan 205 Lahore Wataniya Airways 108 Dubai

Time 00:05 00:05 00:30 00:50 00:50 01:05 01:05 01:15 01:20 01:45 02:15 02:25 02:55 02:55 03:25 05:15 05:25 06:05 06:15 06:30 06:40 07:15 07:20 07:30 07:35 07:50 07:55 07:55 08:00 08:10 08:25 08:40 08:45 09:00 09:20 09:25 10:15 10:25 10:30 10:45 10:45 11:05 11:05 11:10 11:20 12:50 12:55 13:15 13:15 13:20 13:35 13:35 13:35 14:10 14:10 14:20 14:20 14:30 15:05 15:55 16:40 16:50 16:55 17:15 17:15 17:20 17:35 17:40 17:40 17:45 17:55 18:00 18:35 18:40 18:45 18:50 18:50 18:55 18:55 19:05 19:15 19:20 19:20 19:25 19:25 19:40 20:05 20:15 20:20 20:30 20:50 20:55 21:00 21:00 21:05 21:15 21:20 21:35 21:55 22:05 22:15 22:25 22:25 22:30 22:35 23:05 23:10 23:10 23:55 23:55

Departure Flights on Sunday 18/04/2010 Airlines Flt Route Time Bangladesh 044 Dhaka 00:15 Egypt Air 607 Luxor 00:15 India Express 394 Cochin/Kozhikode 00:25 Indian 994 Mumbai/Chennai 00:50 Lufthansa 637 Frankfurt 00:50 Jazeera 528 Assiut 01:25 Ariana 406 Dubai/Kabul 01:45 Turkish A/L 773 Istanbul 02:15 DHL 371 Bahrain 03:15 Emirates 854 Dubai 03:45 Etihad 306 Abu Dhabi 04:00 Qatari 139 Doha 05:00 Wataniya Airways 101 Dubai 06:50 Royal Jordanian 803 Amman 07:00 Jazeera 164 Dubai 07:00 Jazeera 112 Abu Dhabi 07:15 Jazeera 422 Bahrain 07:35 Jazeera 446 Doha 07:40 Gulf Air 212 Bahrain 07:45 Wataniya Airways 181 Bahrain 07:50 Wataniya Airways 431 Damascus 08:10 British 156 London 08:25 Iran Air 614 Shahre Kord 08:35 Jazeera 256 Beirut 08:35 Fly Dubai 054 Dubai 08:40 Kuwait 171 Frankfurt 08:55 Kuwait 671 Dubai 09:00 Jazeera 170 Dubai 09:00 Jazeera 342 Bahrain/Sanaa 09:00 Wataniya Airways 421 Amman 09:10 Kuwait 561 Amman 09:15 Arabia 122 Sharjah 09:20 Emirates 856 Dubai 09:40 Qatari 133 Doha 10:00 Kuwait 117 New York 10:00 Kuwait 511 Tehran 10:00 Kuwait 773 Riyadh 10:00 Etihad 302 Abu Dhabi 10:10 Iran Air 602 Shiraz 10:20 Iran Aseman 6802 Ahwaz 11:15 Gulf Air 214 Bahrain 11:35 Wataniya Airways 401 Beirut 11:35 Falcon 204 Baghdad 11:45 Wataniya Airways 303 Cairo 11:50 Jazeera 172 Dubai 11:55 Kuwait 541 Cairo 12:00 Jazeera 510 Sharm El Sheikh 12:10 Jazeera 366 Deirezzor 12:20 Jazeera 238 Amman 12:30 Kuwait 103 London 12:30 Kuwait 501 Beirut 13:00 Kuwait 785 Jeddah 13:30 Egypt Air 611 Cairo 13:55 Oman Air 646 Muscat 14:15 Kuwait 551 Damascus 14:20 Royal Jordanian 801 Amman 14:30 Wataniya Airways 105 Dubai 14:30 United A/L 982 Bahrain 14:50 Jazeera 176 Dubai 14:55 Wataniya Airways 403 Beirut 15:10 Kuwait 673 Dubai 15:10 Kuwait 617 Doha 15:35 Saudi Arabian A/L 503 Medinah/Jeddah 15:45 Jazeera 458 Damascus 15:50 Kuwait 613 Bahrain 16:20 Qatari 135 Doha 16:20 Kuwait 743 Dammam 16:25 Jazeera 182 Dubai 16:50 Rovos 082 Baghdad 17:00 Bahrain Air 345 Bahrain 17:25 Etihad 304 Abu Dhabi 17:35 Gulf Air 216 Bahrain 18:05 Wataniya Airways 305 Cairo 18:05 Emirates 858 Dubai 18:05 Arabia 126 Sharjah 18:20 Saudi Arabian A/L 511 Riyadh 18:35 Jazeera 116 Abu Dhabi 18:40 Jazeera 448 Doha 18:55 Jazeera 184 Dubai 19:00 Jazeera 428 Bahrain 19:10 Srilankan 228 Dubai/Colombo 19:10 Wataniya Airways 107 Dubai 19:40 Wataniya Airways 321 Sharm El Sheikh 19:45 Jazeera 434 Mashad 19:55 Kuwait 283 Dhaka 20:00 Jazeera 266 Beirut 20:05 Kuwait 361 Colombo 20:20 Singapore A/L 457 Abu Dhabi/Singapore 20:45 Fly Dubai 062 Dubai 20:50 Kuwait 343 Chennai 21:00 Kuwait 351 Cochin 21:05 Oman Air 648 Muscat 21:15 Middle East 403 Beirut 21:20 Wataniya Airways 187 Bahrain 21:35 Gulf Air 218 Bahrain 21:55 DHL 373 Bahrain 22:00 Kuwait 675 Dubai 22:10 Emirates 860 Dubai 22:25 Falcon 102 Bahrain 22:30 Kuwait 381 Delhi 22:30 Qatari 137 Doha 22:35 Kuwait 203 Lahore 22:40 Kuwait 301 Mumbai 22:45 Jazeera 526 Alexandria 23:20 Jazeera 502 Luxor 23:30 Jazeera 636 Aleppo 23:35 United A/L 981 Washington Dc Dulles 23:40 Kuwait 411 Bangkok/Manila 23:40 Kuwait 415 Kuala Lumpur/Jakarta 23:50

FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION 161

ACCOMMODATION Single room available in a 2 bedroom flat, preferably for a single person with Goan family, near Khaitan co-op.

Contact: 66531884/99453500.

(C 2145) Two bedroom flat single room available in Farwaniya near clinic couples or small family, Indians only (family visa only) 60 KD only from 26-5-2010. Tel: 99482666.

(C 2140) Sharing accommodation available for a small family in a 2 bedroom, hall & kitchen central A/C flat near Emirates hotel Abu Halifa with Keralite Christian family. Contact: 97612421.

(C 2147) 18-4-2010 Sharing accommodation available in Abbassiya with Keralite family in a CAC building with separate bathroom from 31st March. Call: 99412951. (C 2136) 17-4-2010 One room available for 2 executive bachelors (Indian) share with Mangalorean family in a CAC 2B/R flat in Salmiya behind Apollo hospital. Tel: 25610431/ 97821037. (C 2133) 15-4-2010 Sharing accommodation available in Abbassiya for visiting family or two working ladies or couples in new CAC fully furnished two bedroom two bathroom (attached) flat from 6th June 2010. Contact: 66013882.

(C 2127)

FOR SALE Hummer, black, H2 model, 2005, full options, Alghanim maintained, 97,000 km, excellent condition. Price KD 8,000 (negotiable). Contact: 99728244, 97113173.

Mitsubishi Lancer, 2006 model, metallic silver color, km 118,000, GLX, full options, very good condition, KD 1,650, serious buyers can contact: 60048674. (C 2144) Household items for sale, expat leaving Kuwait, fridge, AC, complete bedroom set, TV, sofa, dining table, and many more.

Phone: 66537038. (C 2142) 18-4-2010 Chery Extra, 2008 model, received from agency, zero mileage, new. KD 2,250. Tel: 66451465. (C 2137) Jeep Cherokee 1996 in very good condition, price KD 675 o.n.o. Call 25630791/ 66805577.

(C 2138) Mitsubishi Jeep Nativa, model 2007, white color, 6cylinder engine, alloy rim, ABS registration up to 11-411 excellent condition, cash price KD 2,850, negotiable, installment possible. Contact: 99105286. (C 2134) 17-4-2010 Nissan Jeep, first owner, model 2002, black, excellent condition. Tel: 99649749.

(C 2132) 15-4-2010

CHANGE OF NAME I, Alfred Fernandes, R/o H.No.1103 Socorro Zosvaddo, P.O. Porvorim BartzesGoa, S/O late Matias Fernandes, would like to correct my name on my passport no.:F-7953723, issued in Kuwait, from Alfredo Fernandes to Alfred Fernandes.

(C 2129) I, Sebastiana Sousa, R/o Katem Baina, Vasco-DaGama Marmagoa, D/o Late Antonio Sousa, would like to correct my surname on my passport no F-0508935 issued in Kuwait from Sebastiana D始sousa to Sebastiana Sousa. (C 2129) I, Ana Rita Sousa, R/o 343, next to M.P.T. Hospital Vasco-Da-Gama Goa, D/o Late Antonio Sousa, would like to correct my surname on my passport no. F-1471318, issued in Kuwait, from Ana Rita Godinho to Ana Rita Sousa. (C 2129) 14-4-2010

MATRIMONIAL Proposals invited from parents of well qualified boys working in India or abroad for an Ezhava, Hindu girl, 23, working as lecturer, MES College of Engineering, Kuttivattom, Malappuram Dist. Please contact email: kalabhathilengr@yahoo.co.in (C 2143) 18-4-2010

No: 14702

SITUATION WANTED

I am searching a suitable job as sales executive. I have good PR skills, my qualification is MBA (Marketing) and valid driving license. I can join immediately. Mob: 55355954.

(C 2146) Indian female (MBA in HR), 10 years experience in HR/Administration, specializing in recruitments, PMS, MIS reports & overall Admin functions. Proficient in MS Office. Good communication skills. Please contact: 66634322. (C 2148) 18-4-2010 Available experienced Srilankan lady (Christian) for household, babysitting, livein maid for American, European family only. Call: 99028693. (C 2135) 17-4-2010 Indian male, M.Com, well experienced in accounts

and finance, seeks suitable position. Should have transferable residency. Please contact: 99158323.

(C 2130) 15-4-2010

SITUATION VACANT

A decent housemaid wanted urgently for a family in Mangaf. Call 66391085, 23715767.

Kuwaiti decent family looking for live-in maid, any nationality. Tel: 66104141.

(C 2131) 15-4-2010

MIDCELLIANEOUS Personal Training: For help in motivation, commitment, effective technique and results. An experienced international trainer is available to facilitate you achieving and exceeding your fitness goals. For bookings, call 65859449. (2139) 17-4-2010

SPECTRUM

34 CROSSWORD 962

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Calvin Aries (March 21-April 19) You will happily find that your financial capabilities are more solvent now. It is to your best advantage to continue to save and have your finances divided into good risk investments. If you need advice along this line, plan to make an appointment next week to learn or find the best ways to invest. This afternoon is a good time for surrounding yourself with friends and young people and for having a good time. You enjoy support from those around you. You also may set aside some time to enjoy one of your hobbies today. Perhaps gardening is a good stress relief for you. Gardening involves creating and caring for a living thing— a work of art in its own right. Hobbies are a wonderful way to eliminate frustration and enjoy your own, personal, creative talents.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Whether you are male or

female, the family chores can become quite tedious and boring. Cooperation in redistributing domestic responsibilities among family members builds a strong family unit. An occasional change of chores allows a little variety. Emotional security, a sense of belonging and nurturing are felt instinctively now. Relationships are capable of transformation; in positive ways. This is a time of real inner growth through other people. You could also be most persuasive with others and helpful in getting someone else’s plans off the ground. You appear most charming this evening and may enjoy being entertained by young people. Patience is a good thing to practice tonight; results are peaceful.

Pooch Cafe

ACROSS 1. A state of southwestern India.

4. A flat-bottomed volcanic crater that was formed by an explosion.

8. A mature blood cell that contains hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the bodily tissues.

11. A drug combination found in some over-the-counter headache remedies (Aspirin and Phenacetin and Caffeine).

12. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising solely the razorbill.

13. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

14. A unit of force equal to the force exerted by gravity.

15. A barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and supports.

16. Water frozen in the solid state.

17. A radioactive element of the actinide series.

19. Reason by deduction.

20. Fiddler crabs.

22. A public promotion of some product or service.

23. The quarter of many North African cities in which the citadel is located.

27. A French abbot.

28. A soft white precious univalent metallic element having the highest electrical and thermal conductivity of any metal.

31. A nonmetallic largely pentavalent heavy volatile corrosive dark brown liquid element belonging to the halogens.

32. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali earth group.

33. A logarithmic unit of sound intensity.

35. A unit of information equal to 1024 bytes.

37. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

41. The sense organ for hearing and equilibrium.

43. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

46. The 7th letter of the Greek alphabet.

47. Someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike.

48. A master's degree in business.

49. An informal term for a father.

50. God of love and erotic desire.

51. A close friend who accompanies his buddies in their activities.

DOWN 1. Mentally or physically infirm with age.

2. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for the sale of petroleum.

3. (informal) Of the highest quality.

4. A percussion instrument consisting of a pair of hollow pieces of wood or bone (usually held between the thumb and fingers) that are made to click together (as by Spanish dancers) in rhythm with the dance.

5. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism.

6. Harsh or corrosive in tone.

7. English courtier (a favorite of Elizabeth I) who tried to colonize Virginia.

8. Radioactive iodine test that measures the amount of radioactive iodine taken up by the thyroid gland.

9. An indehiscent fruit derived from a single ovary having one or many seeds within a fleshy wall or pericarp.

10. Any system of principles or beliefs.

18. A city in northwestern Germany and an important Baltic port.

21. According to the Old Testament he was a pagan king of Israel and husband of Jezebel (9th century BC).

24. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

25. A metallic element having four allotropic forms.

26. The cry made by sheep.

29. United States evangelical preacher famous as a mass evangelist (born in 1918).

30. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

34. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad.

35. A ductile gray metallic element of the lanthanide series.

36. Derive or receive pleasure from.

37. A white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily.

38. An amino acid that is found in the central nervous system.

39. A small cake leavened with yeast.

40. Any of numerous local fertility and nature deities worshipped by ancient Semitic peoples.

42. A unit of absorbed ionizing radiation equal to 100 ergs per gram of irradiated material.

44. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which the pilot is talked down by ground control using precision approach radar.

45. (folklore) Fairies that are somewhat mischievous.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) You may have a hard time being clearheaded this morning. Thoughts and ideas that come to you just now may be misleading.

An early morning walk may help. Take some time with your chores and with your errands this morning in order to save yourself a trip back home or the need to start over with your efforts. You enjoy your day and encourage others to become involved in some cleaning chores; whistle while you work. An animal gets your close attention this afternoon. Your right hemisphere gets a workout this evening as your friends may coax you to improvise in some fun activity. Everyone is laughing! Someone new and romantic comes into your life. Ask questions; learn about likes and dislikes, favorite childhood memory, etc.

Non Sequitur

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Most of this morning is spent in shopping duties and chores. This afternoon could be spent in writing or some other creative project.

This is a time for imagination and creativity when it comes to ideas and thinking. This, coupled with the ability to put your thoughts into words, allows you to charm and captivate.

Writing poetry, a short story or just planning the events for next week, keeps you quite busy. Young people enjoy your attention. You reflect the feelings of those around you and these young people are full of positive energy. Later today you may want to discuss some ideas you have for changes around the house—especially with a drawing or picture. This is a good time to plan your push toward these changes.

Leo (July 23-August 22) Puttering around in the garage, workroom or an art room may be where your interests are focused today. You may be inventing or creating all sorts of useful things. A friend who is starting a new business may want to sell you something. This could put you in an awkward position if you do not want to buy. Sometimes being truthful is the only way to go! Otherwise you will be running away from this person all weekend long. You are lucky in money today. There will be invitations from friends to enjoy their fellowship. If there are emotional wounds between you and a loved one, there will be an opportunity to repair those wounds. You would not want to miss the wonderfully close times you and your loved one can enjoy.

Zits

Virgo (August 23-September 22) Your friends and family will notice your positive frame of mind. You will enjoy doing creative things with others today. A wreath on the door or a new mailbox may be a fun project this weekend. You need to express your creative side, and even if all you do is prepare a special dinner, it will make you feel more excited about you and your abilities. Indepth discussions and probing conversations find you at your mental best. There are many answers you have received but have not yet heard—listen. Focus your insights on discovery and not self-criticism.

Your analytical abilities are at a high point. A loved one will enjoy your attempts at cooking a special meal this evening. Romance is quite possible tonight. Relax to music.

Libra (September 23-October 22) You have certainly been involved in lots of activities lately. You may decide that this is the day to stay home and relax.

Fortunately, you have chosen a day that a relative calls or comes by to visit. This is someone you have not heard from in a very long time. You may enjoy your family more than usual this weekend. You may find yourself reflecting on your own youth or some event in the past. The creative writer in you may wish you had logged a few funny moments as you visit with family this evening. Why not start a memory jar—go back later and write your stories from the little pieces of paper upon which you write down prophetic or funny antidotes you put in this jar. There is a chance to have a special time with someone you love this evening.

Mother Goose and Grimm

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) You may have

difficulty feeling up beat. Perhaps this restful day will be most beneficial—you have been overloaded with work lately. Take a walk outside and enjoy your day off todayit’s okay to be moody occasionally? for a little while. A family member plans a special event and asks for your help today. A friendship grows closer as a result of all the times you share your thoughts and feelings. A feeling of being at peace in your life is comforting and you are appreciative. You may express your appreciation to those around you. In your spare time this afternoon you may continue to teach yourself some music or a musical instrument. If another member of your family or a friend plays an instrument, it may be fun to play together.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You and a loved one could begin this day with an early morning bicycle ride. You find yourself visiting and communicating with your friends most of the day. The overall attitude of everyone is good and you are in a mood to communicate with anyone. A vision received during a dream or daydream can predict the future, so take some time to unravel its meaning. You may find yourself in long conversations about dreams and what they might mean to you. A friend who is involved in an interesting area of metaphysics may bring you along to a fun class or gathering; you gain insight and may return for more. A local community activity brings new friends to you. General good feelings and a sense of support and harmony makes this a happy time.

Yesterday’s Solution

yester

Yesterday’s Solution

to

INTERNATIONAL CALLS Kuwait Qatar Abu Dhabi Dubai Raas Al Khayma Al-Shareqa Muscat Jordan Bahrain Riyadh Makkah - Jeddah Cairo Alexandria Beirut Damascus Allepo

00965 00974 009712 009714 009717 009716 00968 009626 00973 009661 009662 00202 00203 009611 0096311 0096321

Tunisia Rabat Washington New York Paris London Madrid Zurich Geneva Monaco Rome Bangkok Hong Kong Pakistan Taiwan Bonn

0021610 002127 001212 001718 00331 004471 00341 00411 004122 0033 00396 00662 00852 0092 00886 0049228

Word Sleuth Solution

Capricorn (December 22-January 19) You have certainly earned a vacation but if you will not be taking a vacation soon, you will probably be planning for one in the near future. You may remember and talk about past vacations and events in order to help you find the common thread for the new plans. Through the end of the month, you will find the days are a little easier to maneuver through—people in general just seem happier. A backyard barbecue may attract the neighbors this afternoon. Perhaps they can cook their favorite meal to go with the barbecue ribs you cook. This is a good time for surrounding yourself with friends and young people and for having a good time. Quick answers, great wit and a surplus of insights and solutions are easy to find.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) Feeling good about yourself does wonderful things for your overall attitude.

This morning you may take a short while to bask in your accomplishments. Perhaps you could help a friend or family member with some chore or project which may need your guidance. Being appreciated for your effort/s is a powerful need. You have an attitude of gratefulness and it is contagious. Close relationships offer a lot of potential for growth and good fortune. You will be looking to have stimulating conversations or thoughts today. A marriage or other partnership can raise high hopes and give your spirits a boost. You will find yourself feeling more in a stay-at-home mood for this evening. A love relationship flourishes at this time.

Pisces (February 19-March 20) Tremendous personal insight may come to you today. Any situation that seemed foggy or clouded in the past will become more clear and understandable now. This could come from reading a biography, attending a lecture, composing a poem or just looking through a photograph album. This is a period of transformation for you and if you accept the change, you can move into positive new directions. Today you think about what you have versus what you really want. If they are not one and the same, you may figure out how to make them the same. Doubts fade into the background and reserve is more and more a thing of the past. It is time for breaking out of a shell and letting yourself be known. Your destiny awaits you.

INFORMATION

Sunday, April 18, 2010

35 FIRE BRIGADE Operation Room 777 Al-Madena 22418714 Al-Shohada始a 22545171 Al-Shuwaikh 24810598 Al-Nuzha 22545171 Sabhan 24742838 Al-Helaly 22434853 Al-Fayhaa 22545051 Al-Farwaniya 24711433 Al-Sulaibikhat 24316983 Al-Fahaheel 23927002 Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh 24316983 Ahmadi 23980088 Al-Mangaf 23711183 Al-Shuaiba 23262845 Al-Jahra 25610011 Al-Salmiya 25616368

Ministry of Interior website: www.moi.gov.kw

For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 HOSPITALS Sabah Hospital

24812000

Amiri Hospital

22450005

Maternity Hospital

24843100

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

Chest Hospital

24849400

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

Adan Hospital

23940620

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

Physiotherapy Hospital

POLICE STATION Al-Madena Police Station Al-Murqab Police Station Al-Daiya Police Station Al-Fayha始a Police Station Al-Qadissiya Police Station Al-Nugra Police Station Al-Salmiya Police Station Al-Dasma Police Station

24874330/9 CLINICS

Roudha

22517733

Adhaliya

22517144

Khaldiya

24848075

Keifan

24849807

Shamiya

24848913

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salim

22549134

Al-Nuzha

22526804

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Al-Khadissiya

22515088

Dasmah

22532265

Bneid Al-Ghar

22531908

Al-Shaab

22518752

Al-Kibla

22459381

Ayoun Al-Kibla

22451082

Al-Mirqab

22456536

Sharq

22465401

Salmiya

25746401

Jabriya

25316254

Maidan Hawally

25623444

Bayan

25388462

Mishref

25381200

W.Hawally

22630786

Sabah

24810221

Jahra

24770319

New Jahra

24575755

West Jahra

24772608

South Jahra

24775066

North Jahra

24775992

North Jleeb

24311795

Al-Ardhiya

24884079

Firdous

4892674

Al-Omariya

4719048

N.Kheitan

4710044

Rabiya

4732263

Fintas

3900322

THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY FOR CIVIL INFORMATION Automated enquiry about the Civil ID card is 1889988 AIRLINES

PHARMACIES ON 24 HRS DUTY GOVERNORATE Ahmadi

PHARMACY Sama Safwan Abu Halaifa Danat Al-Sultan

ADDRESS Fahaeel Makka St Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd

PHONE 23915883 23715414 23726558

Jahra

Modern Jahra Madina Munawara

Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 Jahra-Block 92

24575518 24566622

Capital

Ahlam Khaldiya Coop

Fahad Al-Salem St Khaldiya Coop

22436184 24833967

Farwaniya

New Shifa Ferdous Coop Modern Safwan

Farwaniya Block 40 Ferdous Coop Old Kheitan Block 11

24734000 24881201 24726638

Hawally

Tariq Hana Ikhlas Hawally & Rawdha Ghadeer Kindy

Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Salmiya-Amman St Hawally-Beirut St Hawally & Rawdha Coop Jabriya-Block 1A Jabriya-Block 3B

25726265 25647075 22625999 22564549 25340559 25326554

EMERGENCY 112

PRIVATE CLINICS Ophthalmologists: Dr. Abidallah Al-Mansoor Dr. Samy Al-Rabeea Dr. Masoma Habeeb Dr. Mubarak Al-Ajmy Dr. Mohsen Abel Dr Adnan Hasan Alwayl Dr. Abdallah Al-Baghly

25622444 25752222 25321171 25739999 25757700 25732223 25732223

Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT): Dr. Ahmed Fouad Mouner 24555050 Ext 510 Dr. Abdallah Al-Ali 25644660 Dr. Abd Al-Hameed Al-Taweel 25646478 Dr. Sanad Al-Fathalah 25311996 Dr. Mohammad Al-Daaory 25731988 Dr. Ismail Al-Fodary 22620166 Dr. Mahmoud Al-Booz 25651426 General Practitioners: Dr. Mohamme Y Majidi 24555050 Ext 123 Dr. Yousef Al-Omar 24719312 Dr. Tarek Al-Mikhazeem 23926920 Dr. Kathem Maarafi 25730465 Dr. Abdallah Ahmad Eyadah 25655528 Dr. Nabeel Al-Ayoobi 24577781 Dr. Dina Abidallah Al-Refae 25333501 Urologists: Dr. Ali Naser Al-Serfy 22641534 Dr. Fawzi Taher Abul 22639955 Dr. Khaleel Abidallah Al-Awadi22616660 Dr. Adel Al-Hunayan FRCS (C) 25313120 Plastic Surgeons: Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf 22547272

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Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari Dr. Abdel Quttainah

22617700 25625030/60

Family Doctor: Dr Divya Damodar 23729596/23729581

Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr.

Zahra Qabazard Sohail Qamar Snaa Maaroof Pradip Gujare Zacharias Mathew

25710444 22621099 25713514 23713100 24334282

(1) Ear, Nose and Throat Psychiatrists Dr. Esam Al-Ansari 22635047 Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan 22613623/0 Gynaecologists & Obstetricians: Dr Adrian Harbe 23729596/23729581 Dr. Verginia s.Marin 2572-6666 ext 8321 Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan 22655539 Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami 25343406 Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly 25739272 Dr. Salem soso 22618787 General Surgeons: Dr. Abidallah Behbahani 25717111 Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer 22610044 Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher 25327148

Paediatricians: Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed 25340300

Rheumatologists: Dr. Adel Al-Awadi 25330060 Dr. Khaled Al-Jarallah 25722290

(2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, FRCS (Canada)

25655535 Dentists:

Dr Anil Thomas

3729596/3729581

Dr. Shamah Al-Matar

22641071/2

Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed

22562226

Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer

22561444

Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan

22619557

Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash

22525888

Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan

25653755

Dr. Bader Al-Ansari

25620111

Neurologists:

Internist, Chest & Heart: DR.Mohammes Akkad 24555050 Ext 210 Dr. Mohammad Zubaid MB, ChB, FRCPC, PACC Assistant Professor Of Medicine Head, Division of Cardiology Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital Tel: 25339667 Dr. Farida Al-Habib MD, PH.D, FACC Consultant Cardiologist Tel: 2611555-2622555 Inaya German Medical Center Te: 2575077 Fax: 25723123

Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri 25633324 Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan

Internists, Chest & Heart: Dr. Adnan Ebil 22639939 Dr. Mousa Khadada 22666300 Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan 25728004 Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra 25355515 Dr. Mobarak Aldoub 24726446 Dr Nasser Behbehani 25654300/3

Physiotherapists & VD: Dr. Deyaa Shehab 25722291 Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees 22666288

25345875

Gastrologists Dr. Sami Aman

22636464

Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly 25322030 Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali

22633135

Endocrinologist: Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman 25339330 Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari

25658888

Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr

25329924

Psychologists/Psychotherapists Soor Center Tel: 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688 info@soorcenter.com www.soorcenter.com Dr. Naif Al-Mutawa, Ph.D. 2290-1677 Susannah-Joy Schuilenberg, M.A. 2290-1677 William Schuilenberg, RPC 2290-1677 Zaina Al Zabin, M.Sc. 2290-1677

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SPECTRUM

he reality TV star - who recently split from American footballer Reggie Bush - was reportedly seen in a “very affectionate” embrace with the Real Madrid star in the middle of a Miami restaurant, before following him back to his mansion. A source told The Sun newspaper: “She and Ronaldo were kissing and very affectionate. They looked to be getting on really well, laughing the whole time.” The American socialite - who was holidaying in Miami when she met the hunky sportsman - allegedly went back to his place after the meal, staying for around four hours, before leaving in a chauffeur-driven Mercedes G-Wagon. Kim, 29, had

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

recently been linked with English soccer player Wayne Bridge, who she had been communicating regularly with by text message. A source said: “They met while Wayne was cheering himself up on a boys’ night out and got on like a house on fire.” This is not the first time Ronaldo, 25, has been linked to a famous American girl. He was seen kissing hotel heiress Paris Hilton in a Los Angeles nightclub last July. A source at the time said: “Cristiano and Paris were all over each other swapping spit the entire night! His table needed every waitress in the building and he spent in excess of $20,000 on champagne and drinks.”

Paris Hilton moves in with her folks

Charlotte Church wants a wedding in the Caribbean he singer-turned-TV star and her fiance Gavin Henson - who have two children, Ruby, two, and 15-month-old Dexter - are reportedly hoping to tie the knot on Paradise Island in the Bahamas in July. A source said: “Gavin and Charlotte are planning to get married in July. Gavin picked Paradise Island in the Bahamas because he likes the idea of seeing Charlotte walking down the beach in a wedding dress. “They’re hoping to exchange vows on one of the island’s stunning white beaches, then have a glitzy reception afterwards. It’s the perfect place for a romantic wedding.” Despite reportedly considering the family-friendly Atlantis resort on the island, pals are confident the wedding won’t be a tame affair. The source added: “Knowing Gav

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and Charlotte they’ll end up skinny dipping in the sea!” Charlotte revealed this week she and Gavin, 28, were getting hitched after five years of dating.

Speaking about the surprise proposal, which took place on the singer’s 24th birthday, she said: “I absolutely didn’t expect it. It was perfect.” Rugby player Gavin bought the engagement ring for Charlotte when they were on holiday in Dubai earlier this year, and admits he has been desperate to make Charlotte his wife for some time. He said: “It’s time to get married. I want us to be a family and we have different names at the moment. Me, Ruby and Dexter are Henson and Charlotte is Church. It feels right.”

Dr Julianne Moore?

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he 49-year-old actress - whose mother Anne Love was a psychiatrist - believes she could have had a great career in medicine if her acting dreams hadn’t worked out. She said: “I think I would be a doctor. I think I would enjoy that.

My mother was a psychiatrist. I could imagine doing that as well.” Although she is a successful Hollywood actress, Julianne still enjoys broadening her horizons and is a published children’s

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author. The ‘A Single Man’ star has written tomes about the adventures of Freckleface Strawberry - a semi-biographical character - and she loves the freedom writing gives her. She added to website Skip.at: “That’s another career path for me. I love writing books for children, especially since it has nothing to do with films or acting. And it’s great doing something with or for children.

he ‘Harry Potter’ actor will take to the New York stage next spring in a revival of satire ‘How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying’. The 20-year-old star - who previously appeared in a production of ‘Equus’ on both Broadway and London’s West End - will play J Pierrepont Finch, a mailroom employee who quickly rises to the top of the corporate ladder to become vice-president of advertising at the Worldwide Wicket Company. However, his “unorthodox and morally questionable business practices” threaten to come between his work and love affair with secretary Rosemary Pilkington. The production was first staged on Broadway in 1961, with the most recent revival in 1995 starring Matthew Broderick. The show - which was made into a movie in 1967 - won the Pulitzer Prize for drama in 1962, one of only six musicals to have won this prestigious award. Tony Award winner Rob Ashford will direct and choreograph the production. — BangShowbiz

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Daniel Radcliffe to star in new Broadway musical

Young Arnold S chwarzenegger worried mom w ith posters he acto

he hotel heiress - whose separation from ‘The Hills’ star, who she dated for 14 months, is at mother Kathy and father Richard’s Los Angeles home as she tries to get over the break-up.

She tweeted: “At my parents house getting ready for a girl’s night out! :) (sic)” Paris’ luck doesn’t seem to be getting any better as not only is she single again, she has broken her beloved Blackberry phone. She revealed in another twitter post: “I have the worst luck with phones. Just dropped my Blackberry and the screen cracked. Now I can’t see or read anything.

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r-turned bodybuilding -politician - who shot to fa titl ‘Pumping Iron e a record seven times me by winning the Mr O an lympia ’ d appear us ed to bedroom, m uch to the co put posters of his muscl ing in the documentary nfusion of hi e-bound hero is married to s pa es M is quoted by aria Shriver, the niece of rents. The ‘Terminator’ up in his the New Yor st la te U S P re sident John F ar - who k there was so Kennedy mething wro Daily newspaper as sayi ng: “My mot ng with me pictures on whe her my walls of half-naked m n she came into my room thought ‘Shouldn’t th ere be pictur en covered es in oil. My m and saw a little wac ky.” Austria of girls on your walls?’ ot My parents th her said, n-born Arnol California si ought I was d - who ha nce 2003 - ha s s be ed is the Uni also revealed en the Gov te ernor of the thing that writer-and-ac d States of America. W hen asked “W gets him most excittor James L ipton at the Piers, in New ha t turns you 2010 Riverke on?” by ep honoured by York, he replied: “Amer ica.” The 62 er Benefit at Chelsea the Riverkeep -y climate chan ea er rO ol rg d star anizatio ge - also reve aled his favo n on the night for his le who was ad rite sound in the world is ership on “water”.

Angelina Jolie impresses kids with own stunts he actress - who has an impressive number of action roles to her name, including her latest film ‘Salt’, ‘Wanted’ and ‘Tomb Raider’ - does as many of her own daring sequences as possible, because she knows her young family will think it is “cool”. Angelina who raises adopted children Maddox, eight, five-year-old Zahara and Pax, six, as well as three biological children, Shiloh, three, and 20month-old twins Knox and Vivienne with partner Brad Pitt - told Entertainment Weekly: “The funny thing about having children is that now I am twice as motivated to do a cool stunt because my kids will like it.” Angelina admits she enjoyed the challenge of getting into shape for spy thriller ‘Salt’ soon after giving birth to twins. She added: “I had just had two babies, and the push to be physically strong was very welcome at the time.” The 34-year-old actress

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also revealed she is keen to work with Brad again but it looking for the right project. Angelina - who first met the Hollywood heartthrob on the set of ‘Mr and Mrs Smith’ in 2004, when he was still married to ‘Friends’ actress Jennifer Aniston - said: “I love working with him. He’s my favorite actor to work with, and the only complicated thing is to find the right project.”

‘Salt’ - in which Angelina plays a CIA officer trying to prove her innocence after being accused of being a spy - is released in Europe this August.

Brutal.” The 29-year-old socialite seems to be seeking comfort in the arms of her family in the wake of the separation, which is said to have happened weeks ago. She went for dinner with her family, including grandfather Barron Hilton and Kathy, at Hollywood restaurant Dan Tana’s. In a series of tweets, she said: “At my favorite italian restaurant with my grandpa and family... I love my grandpa, we had such a lovely time with him and dinner tonite. He is the best grandpa in the world! “I Love My Grandpa! He is so sweet! (sic)”

SPECTRUM

Sunday, April 18, 2010

East Timor aims to send

37

teen mums back to school al activity among young people is on the rise. “For people in the rural areas, when they are 20 years old and we ask them how many children they have, they

hen Graziela Sarmento was 16, she got pregnant, dropped out of school, left her parents behind in the countryside and went to live with her aunt and uncle in Dili, East Timor’s capital. Three years later her life revolves around Bruno, her son, with her dreams of an education dashed and hopes for a decent job almost nil.

Sarmento’s story typifies the growing problem of teen pregnancy in East Timor, a conservative Roman Catholic country that is struggling to cope with one of the highest fertility rates in the world.

“When I knew I was pregnant, I dropped out of school. I was shy, I had to protect my dignity,” she said, adding that Bruno’s father, a former classmate, wanted nothing to do with the child. “I wasn’t able to finish school. After the baby came, I had to stay at home with my son,” she said. “I regret it.” Timorese women have an average of six or seven children each. A UN study last year found that among those aged 20 to 24 more than half had at least one child, and of those, 60 percent had their first child before they were 19. The problem of teen mums is being exacerbated by the fact that the population of 1.1 million people is also very young, with about 60 percent under 24 years. Some analysts say the average age of first pregnancy is likely to fall, citing studies that the level of sexu-

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he boos heard ‘round the world on opening night were mostly gone as “Tosca” reappeared at the Metropolitan Opera with a new cast that turned Puccini’s melodrama into a feast of great singing. Credit for that goes chiefly to German tenor Jonas Kaufmann as the idealistic painter Mario Cavaradossi, and Welsh bass-baritone Bryn Terfel as the evil police chief, Baron Scarpia. Both were making their first appearances at the Met in more than two years on Wednesday night, and both have been sorely missed.

Kaufmann has blossomed from a fine lyric tenor into something more. With his dark-hued voice and formidable technique he now apparently can sing Wagner, Verdi, Puccini and French opera with equal

New cast enlivens reviled ‘Tosca’

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Children sit in a classroom in Dili in this file photo. The population of East Timor is heavily slanted towards its youth, with about 60 percent of the population under 24 years old. Previous studies by UNICEF and Family Health International point to higher levels of sexual activity among young people, which is contributing to a declining age of first pregnancy. — AFP

say they already have two or three,” said Veronica Correia, a maternal and child health expert from the Alola Foundation.

It’s common for teenage mothers everywhere to drop out of school, but in East Timor they

ly create chills as when he invites Tosca to enjoy a sip of Spanish drink to calm her nerves before he plans to rape her.

If the title character herself has been left for last, it’s not any fault of American soprano Patricia Racette. She delivered a fine, forthright performance, more down-to-earth and less the prima donna than many Toscas. Aside from a rushed high note and some pitch problems at the end of her aria, “Vissi d’arte” (“I lived for art”), she sang the part extremely well. Still, her overall impact paled a bit next to the high-powered performances of the men.

The production by French director Luc Bondy has been modified since it opened the season to the loudest booing in

Rats, cats eat at Senegalʼs French West Africa archives n a dusty government basement in Dakar, the archived history of nearly two centuries of French presence in West Africa is in an advanced state of degradation, a disintegrating record of colonization.

Down a spiral staircase, dusty boxes lie on the ground for lack of place on the shelves in the dank, badly-lit store room containing documents declared part of world heritage by UNESCO. “All the aspects of France’s colonial policy in French West Africa can be found in the collection of documents in Senegal’s archives, a rich and unique history going back to 1816,” said Babacar Ndiaye, director of Senegal Archives.

These include history of former colonies such as Togo, Mauritania, French Sudan (now Mali), Ivory Coast, Niger, Upper Volta (Burkina Faso), Dahomey (Benin) and Guinea.

Daily reports on France’s colonial conquests and correspondence between France and some of the great African opponents of colonialism are tucked away in the archives.

These include Behanzin, the 19th century king of Dahomey-a highly organized and stable kingdom with the best army in West Africa-who put up a fierce battle against France, eventually becoming the last traditional African kingdom to yield to European colonialism.

There are also details of clashes and correspondence with Samory Toure, head of the Islamic Wassoulou Empire which resisted French rule in the late 1800s-at one point even seeking British protection, though without success. “The archives of Senegal contain much information about the colonial and even postcolonial slave trade,” said Sokhna Sane of the history department at the University Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD) in Dakar.

But while awaiting modern digitization and storage in a new building promised by Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade, the elements are

I

This image provided by the Metropolitan Opera shows Bryn Terfel as Scarpia in Act 1 of Puccini’s ‘Tosca’ at the Metropolitan Opera. —AP flair. As Cavaradossi, he displayed the heroic top notes required to turn his defiant cry of “Vittoria!” in Act 2 and his Act 3 aria, “E lucevan le stelle” (“And the stars were shining”) into show-stoppers. Equally impressive was the ravishing tenderness he brought to many soft phrases, such as “O dolci mani” (“O sweet hands”), when he sings in wonderment that his beloved Tosca has stabbed Scarpia to death.

That murder takes place at the end of Act 2, and until his demise, Terfel etched a portrayal of tremendous power.

The sheer amplitude of his sound has always been thrilling, riding easily over the orchestra during moments like the Act 1 “Te deum,” where most bass-baritones struggle to be heard. But Terfel has so much more to offer. He can turn the merest whisper into a bloodcurdling threat, or casual-

Met memory - a reception that created headlines worldwide.

Scarpia no longer lasciviously embraces the statue of the Madonna at the end of Act 1.

Tosca no longer fans herself while casually reclining on a sofa after murdering Scarpia.

A technical glitch made it appear another effect had been dropped. At the very end, Tosca is supposed to leap to her death off the prison battlements where her lover has just been executed. Bondy has a body double jump from a parapet and hang by wires over the stage. But the lights went out too soon, and she jumped in darkness. There were still a few boos at the final curtain, but cheers for the singers drowned them out. The cheers were also loud for conductor Fabio Luisi, who led a sweeping, tense account of a score that can sound merely melodramatic.— AP

have almost no chance of resuming their education later, analysts say. The cultural barriers to their return to school are so strong that many young East Timorese women believe they lose the right to an education once they give birth.

“It needs to be socialized to the community, mostly because they just don’t know” that education is their right, Correia said. So the government has set up a new policy unit to focus on measures to bring young mothers back to the classroom. “We’re going to establish a new unit that will take responsibility, particularly in terms of inclusion, and then after that we’ll start with designing the policy,” explained education ministry official Afonso Soares.

And with the help of the University of Minho in Portugal, East Timor’s former colonial ruler, the government is drafting a new junior high school curriculum that will include sex education for the first time. But the challenges are huge. According to the World Bank, less than half of the children starting primary school in East Timor will reach grade six, and the adult literacy rate is only about 50 percent.

Ameerah Haq, East Timor’s new special representative of the UN secretary-general, called on the government to allocate a larger slice of the state budget to educating young women with children. —AFP

Fiber glass and colored mirror sculptures by renowned French sculptor Niki de Saint Phalle are part of a new unique installation sponsored by the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the District Department of Transportation through its Transportation Enhancement Program on April 16, 2010 in Washington, DC. The New York Avenue Sculpture Project is the first and only major outdoor sculpture corridor in the Nationís capital, featuring changing installations of world-class art by women. —AFP

taking their toll. And, if Senegal does not step up and protect the documents, the archive faces losing its status as a UNESCO “Memory of the World” collection. “The depot is not air-conditioned. That encourages the development of mould and the climatic variations are harmful to proper conservation of paper and ink stability,” Ndiaye explained.

“Openings to the outside mean you sometimes find rats and even cats” in the room, he added. The collection is complementary to one held in Aix-en-Provence in southern

UNESCO Dakar, said if the collection was still degrading in a year or two, its status would be reconsidered. “It is up to the country to preserve it, not us. One of the reasons we acknowledge these archives as a memory of the world is for them to preserve it and if they don’t within a certain time, we remove it from the list.”

According to Ndiaye “frequent handling is also a factor of the deterioration of these documents, a part of which are seriously damaged by the combined effects of humidity due to

A woman reads a document of the National Archives of Senegal in the basement of the Government building in Dakar, where the archives of two centuries of French presence in Western Africa are stored. —AFP France, which has microfilm of the entire collection, with Dakar holding onto the original documents. “This collection in Dakar does not belong to Senegal, but to France and the countries of French West Africa,” Ndiaye said.

Because of their importance, the collection “was registered in the world history register (in 2000) and was classified as world heritage documents” by UNESCO, according to the organization’s office in Dakar.

Jeanne Seck, spokeswoman from

infiltration of rainwater and heat.”

Microfilmed versions have also been stored in Dakar, but an estimated three quarters of them have been destroyed by “vinegar syndrome”-a chemical process which causes film to deteriorate.

“It is not always easy to read the documents. Some are old, dusty and have torn pages,” said history student Dieynaba Barry, who also complains that there is no wireless Internet connection in the 25-place reading room. —AFP

Canadian publishes porn for the blind hotographer Lisa Murphy believed the blind lacked access to our “much sexualized” world, so she decided to create a new kind of pornography, with tactile images, the first designed especially for the blind. “When I had the idea, I started looking around and I realized there were no nude books out there for the blind,” the Canadian artist told AFP. “We live in a society that is much sexualized-just look at advertising,” she said by telephone from her Toronto home.

“But if you can’t see then you are probably not aware of how sexualized it is.” “And I believe that vision-impaired people have been (wrongly) left out of the experience.” “Or course, anyone can find it erotic, not just the vision-impaired,” Murphy added.

The book, entitled “Tactile Mind,” features pages made of thermoform plastic-the same material used for Braille. Each page contains raised images of naked men and women in various poses, some wearing masks or in suggestive bondage, along with titillating phrases in Braille. Murphy photographed friends in costumes and masks, in part to convince them to participate.

“It’s so much easier to get someone to take off their clothes in front of a camera if they’re non-identifiable,” Murphy said of the mask. She is herself also featured in the book. “I couldn’t expect anyone to do it if I wasn’t a part of it too.” She then transformed the pictures into fine sculptures-a process that took more than 50 hours per image. Each book costs 225 Canadian dollars (222 US). The pages are held together by a simple spiral binding which allows the 17 diagrams to be read on a flat surface or removed.

Murphy, a former volunteer at the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, told AFP she picked up the necessary skills for the unique book by transforming images of animals for children’s educational books. After the first run, “some of the smallest things had to be redone, like a wrist or an ankle or a buttock or a hip to make them more fluid. It was things I couldn’t see, but my blind proofreader felt,” she said. The book was first released two years ago, but has received new attention in the wake of an article last Sunday in a Toronto daily that was picked up by media worldwide.

“Pornographic magazine for the blind launched,” declared Britain’s Telegraph newspaper on Monday. “Porn you can touch,” shouted a New York Daily News headline the next day.

“I’d been dragging it around to erotic fairs for the last two years,” Murphy commented. “It was a labor of love and I never expected to make any money from it.” —AFP

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SPECTRUM

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ela, the late Nigerian musician and political agitator, fascinated millions and had fans around the world, including legends like Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder.

Yet he was, and still is, largely unknown to popular audiences, especially in the United States.

That’s slowly changing. More people are starting to know the name, music and struggle of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. His story is reaching thousands through the Broadway musical “Fela!” In addition, his albums are being rereleased and a film about his life is planned.

But during his life, Fela wasn’t interested in becoming a global star. His songs would last 10, 20 or 30 minutes long - not suitable for regular radio play.

He also toured with a band that had 70-plus members. And Fela didn’t want to compromise to fit the mold of the pop sensation.

“He used to say, ‘I don’t care what you do but don’t (expletive) around with my music

F

Fela

man,”‘ said Rikki Stein, Fela’s last manager before the singercomposer died of AIDS in 1997 at age 58. “(Fela would say), ‘I’m writing African, classical music, and you don’t (expletive) around with Tchaikovsky so why you going to mess with me?’ And that’s something that reverberated through me over the years,” continued Stein. Fela, who was born Olufela Olusegun Oludotun Ransome-Kuti, was known as the founder of Afrobeat music. He created that genre in the 1960s by combining African sounds with a fusion of rock, R&B, jazz and soul music.

He performed at his nightclub in Lagos, The Shrine, and also around the globe.

But Fela, whose father was a Protestant minister and mother an activist, didn’t just want to be a musician - he also wanted to be the voice of the oppressed. In 1979, he formed the political party Movement of the People and over the years, he repeated-

ly staged unsuccessful runs for president. His songs and lyrics battled what he saw as corruption and oppression by the Nigerian government at the time. He paid a price for his activism, though. He was beat and jailed over 200 times, while soldiers threw his mother out of a window; she died from the injuries. Michael Veal, the author of 2000’s “Fela: The Life and Times of an African Musical Icon,” called Fela “one of the most important musicians of the post-World War II era, and one of the most important musicians in the world of black music.” “He’s as important as James Brown or Bob Marley and it was a story that had to be told,” continued Veal, who is also professor of music at Yale University. Veal says that Fela is “as popular as he needs to be.” “People want to try to force these artists into the model of the Western pop star, and that’s not (Fela’s) model.

His career basically unfolded the way he wanted to. He never

Music legends quartet rock ʻnʼ roll Broadway ut Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins and Jerry Lee Lewis in a Memphis recording studio and you’re bound to make musical fireworks.

Maybe even a Broadway show. That’s the premise behind “Million Dollar Quartet,” a fictional recreation of their celebrated jam session on Dec 4, 1956, apparently the only time these music legends ever played together. This high-energy entertainment, which opened Sunday at the Nederlander Theatre, is part jukebox concert, part history lesson of ‘50s pop music and part cautionary tale about the ups and downs of show biz. If the story, fashioned by book writers Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, is elemental and often a bit awkward, the musical performances are not - a galvanizing collection of singers and musicians who deliver the songs with an explosive authority that really rocks the house. The original session was orchestrated by Sun Records producer Sam Phillips, the mastermind behind the early recordings of all four singers. He’s the man who pushed them on the road to stardom.

Phillips, played by Hunter Foster with good ol’ boy charm, is also the show’s nominal narrator. His story is an important part of “Million Dollar Quartet.” “I didn’t just wanna play the tunes. I wanted to record

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them,” Phillips drawls early on in the evening. And what tunes, classics ranging from “Blue Suede Shoes” to “Folsom Prison Blues” to “Long Tall Sally” to “Great Balls of Fire.” Particularly as sung and played by the four performers who eerily inhabit these musical giants in their younger, formative years.

Lance Guest is an authentic, grade A Johnny Cash, looking and sounding amazingly like the country-western icon. As

Presley, Eddie Clendening has the most difficult job - capturing the best-known voice in the show and the emotions of the shy, young man bewildered by the enormous attention he has received.

Clendening does the King just fine.

Rockabilly star Perkins is perhaps the most interesting character on stage. The singer is bitter because his version of “Blue Suede Shoes” was overshadowed by Presley’s later take on the song. Robert

Christina Applegate engaged to rocker beau hristina Applegate is engaged to marry musician Martyn Lenoble. Applegate’s publicist, Ame Van Iden, said Friday that the couple of two years became betrothed on Valentine’s Day. This will be the second marriage for both the actress and the Dutch rocker. No wedding date has been set.

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Applegate’s recent credits include TV’s “Samantha Who?” and the movie “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.” She is set to appear with Drew Barrymore and Justin Long in the film “Going the Distance,” due this summer.

Lenoble is a founding member of the rock group Porno for Pyros. —AP

Britton Lyons effectively portrays the man’s hurt and anger, an anger that has an outlet in his furious yet fabulous guitarplaying.

If there is a scene-stealer in “Million Dollar Quartet,” it’s Levi Kreis as the more than ebullient Lewis, whose confidence - and his piano-playing - can’t be contained. There is also one other character, Presley’s mysterious female companion, here called Dyanne, played by a sexy, red-haired Elizabeth Stanley. She holds her own with the show’s other singers, especially on a defiant version of “I Hear You Knocking.” Yet her presence is never fully explained.

Eric Schaeffer, who runs the Signature Theatre in Washington’s Virginia suburbs, has staged the show with a minimum of fuss. The book heads toward a glum confrontation between Phillips and several of the singers, who are leaving Sun Records for more lucrative contracts with larger recording labels. Yet the gloom is dispelled quickly when “Million Dollar Quartet” finishes up its curtain calls with high-voltage renditions of “Hound Dog,” “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” “See You Later Alligator” and the appropriately titled “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On.” Of course, they get the cheering audience to its feet. — AP

Imogen Heap

Ian McCulloch of Echo and the Bunnymen

Franz Swantko of Long Beach, California, performs a light DJ Steve Porter performs show for festivalgoers. during his set with Perry Farrell.

wanted to cut his songs down to be popular on the radio, he wanted to present his music the way he presented it ... and it stood the test of time, and people are appreciating his music on his own terms.” Fela’s dramatic life was recently introduced to a large audience in the United States when the musical about him debuted off-Broadway in Sept.2008. A year later, it arrived on Broadway to mostly positive reviews. “There’s been more publicity, more attention, more recognition of him in the last four months than there has been in the previous number of years,” said Stephen Hendel, a lead producer and co-conceiver of the play. Jay-Z and Will and Jada Pinkett Smith signed on as producers-investors when the play joined Broadway. The play is also set to run in London later this year. Knitting Factory Records released “The Best of the Black President” in November. The first batch of his album catalog arrived in

Jay Z performs.

February; the second batch will be out May 11.

Many top artists like Nas, Missy Elliott, Fatboy Slim, Common, Mos Def and the Roots have sampled Fela’s music for their songs. Ian Wheeler, the label manager for Knitting Factory, hopes their fans will catch on and recognize Fela’s influence. “It’s the sort of thing where kids, younger kids, younger audiences especially, are hearing the kind of intricate hooks and I’m hoping one day the dots will come and connect and they’ll realize, ‘Hey, that’s Fela,”‘ he said. A film on Fela, who had more than two dozen wives and numerous children, is in the works with Focus Features. It is being adapted from Veal’s book. Film producer Lydia Dean Pilcher said production is expected to begin in the fall with a hopeful release in 2011.

This year PBS also featured Fela in a segment of the new program “Music Without

Borders,” also highlighting his youngest son, Seun, who released his debut album in 2008. Fela’s oldest song, Femi, is also a performing musician.

Fela’s brother, Beko, an activist and doctor, was recently honored in Lagos with a statue. According to the Nigerian newspaper The Vanguard, Lagos State Governor Raji Fashola described the Kuti family as the Kennedy family of Nigeria, commending the family for providing the country with great heroes.

“When he died I remember sitting on his first wife Remi’s bed in Lagos and reading these leaders from the top, top people, the top in the administration and they weren’t just letters of condolences, they were testimonies to a great man,” Stein said. “At the time, I said, ‘...All his life you gave him nothing but grief and now he’s gone and you’re calling him a great man.’ But anyway I think the time is coming now where they’re starting to recognize the need to pay tribute.” — AP

Green Day’s ‘American Idiot’ hits Great White way I

t’s the evening of Thursday, April 1, and, no foolin’, Broadway’s St James Theater is packed. Previews of the musical “American Idiot” started little more than a week ago in anticipation of an April 20 opening, and the theater has been close to capacity every night.

Onstage, faded rock posters and multiple TV screens provide the backdrop for 95 minutes of singing, dancing and Green Day songs. The plot centers on three young men trying to escape dead-end suburban lives. Will fails to get in gear even when his girlfriend falls pregnant; the other two “succeed,” in a manner of speaking. Tunny winds up being seduced by a flashy military recruiter, goes to war and promptly loses a leg and gains a nurse to love.

The story contains almost no spoken dialogue-instead, it’s told mostly through songs from “American Idiot” and its 2009 follow-up album, “21st Century Breakdown.” There’s a band onstage, and though the songs’ arrangements are fuller and richer as adapted for the theater, they retain the scrappy quality of the originals. The ending isn’t exactly a happy one, but it’s not “King Lear,” either, at least according to Green Day frontman Billie Joe Armstrong.

“The characters all made mistakes and learned lessons,” he says. “It’s still the beginning of a journey for them. For Johnny, he doesn’t blame everything on his parents or society anymore, and he can move forward.” While the show tells the story of Johnny’s transition, it also represents the maturation of Green Day. When the band first broke out of the Bay Area with snotty three-chord punk in the early ‘90s, the last place anyone would expect to see it would be on the Great White Way. But as “American Idiot” demonstrates, things rarely turn out the way you think they will.

Rocking the boards The staged rock opera has been around since “Hair” premiered in 1968 and was reborn when “Rent” hit it big in 1996, but a musical based on a single album is a more ambitious concept, attempted only once before on Broadway, with the Who’s “Tommy” in 1993 (which also had its Broadway premiere at the St James). But incorporating rock in a production has become so common that 10 out of 24 musicals that will be on Broadway in April can loosely be considered rock musicals. Recent examples range from “Rock of Ages,” which uses classic pop-metal tracks to drive the story, and “Fela!,” which tells the life story of African musician Fela Kuti through his songs, to the off-Broadway emo musical “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” to the long-delayed, costly and U2-scored “Spider-Man.” In this case, the story of St Jimmy the drug dealer, and ingenue Whatshername hews closely to the story line laid out in “American Idiot.” The tale is already well known-the album has sold 5.9 million copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan, and won a Grammy Award for best rock album. It’s this story line that prompted director Michael Mayer to put in a call to Armstrong.

“I fell in love with the record when it first came out,” he says.

“I thought it had the makings of an amazing musical theater

Green Day

Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

Beyonce Knowles (center) and her sister Solange (left) watch Jay Z’s headlining set with California First Lady Maria Shriver during the first day of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California, Friday, April 16, 2010.

— AP photos

Sunday, April 18, 2010

piece. After ‘Spring Awakening’ (the Mayerdirected musical adaptation of a 19th-century German play that attracted a huge young audience and won eight Tony Awards) moved to Broadway, I did an interview and the reporter asked me to think about other possible sources for a rock musical, and I immediately said ‘American Idiot.”“ Mayer invited Armstrong to a performance of “Spring Awakening,” and the two wound up talking all night. “Billie gave me carte blanche to develop scenarios and characters, and I asked for six months of exclusivity to put something together before we did a reading,” he says. For his part, Armstrong says he knew all along the story was there. “Originally, we thought about doing a movie version of it,” he says. “I always thought it should be staged in some way. Then we took some meetings and realized the movie industry makes the music industry look like a mom-and-pop store. When I talked to Michael, I sensed immediately that he got it.” (His movie goal may not be so far-fetched: Entertainment news site Deadline New York recently reported that talks are under way with Playtone partners Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman to turn the musical into a feature film.)

The show started to develop in 2008, with Mayer presenting workshops to Armstrong and exchanging e-mails with him seeking feedback.

By December 2008, Mayer had prepared a version for the stage, and in July 2009, the show started rehearsals for a run at the Berkeley (California) Repertory Theater in the band’s hometown. Armstrong is credited as the writer for all the lyrics, Green Day is credited with writing all the music, and Armstrong and Mayer cowrote the story.

“American Idiot” opened at the Berkeley Rep Sept 15, 2009, after 11 days of previews and was scheduled to run until Oct 11; it wound up being extended twice, running until Nov 15 and becoming the highest-grossing show in the theater’s history. Critical reaction to the initial staging was mixed. The Los Angeles Times praised it, noting, “If it doesn’t spin an entirely satisfying yarn, its roar is still irresistible, even when the object of protest remains elusive.” The Oakland Tribune said, “(What) once was a fine Gouda has been prepackaged as Velveeta ... In other words, it should do big business on Broadway.” A few years after Mayer first called Armstrong, the play headed east to the St. James, with previews starting March 24.

Miracle on 44th Street?

Ira Pittelman, one of the “American Idiot” producers along with partner/actor Tom Hulce (“Amadeus”), thinks the show’s use of rock ‘n’ roll will draw a large audience seeking something that reflects the spirit of the times. “If you look at the music of the last 50 years, it’s all rock,” he says. “Every new musical has some sort of rock element in it.” Pittelman and Hulce, who worked with Mayer as co-producers on “Spring Aw a ke n i n g , ” raised the cash to stage “A m e r i c a n Idiot” from a group of investors, as well as putting in some of their own money.

— Reuters

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Sunday, April 18, 2010

Avatar director vows to fight on for Amazon A

people I met” during several visits to the vast South American country after the release of Avatar, Cameron said.

“But I want to go back as a filmmaker, not a sign-waver. I want to film the culture of the Kayapo Indians and let the world see how they live in harmony with the forest,” he said, evoking strong parallels with Avatar. The blockbuster movie tells the story of the peaceful Na’Vi people who live in harmony with nature on the planet

Mexican-born actress charged with marriage fraud

Pandora and are forced to wage a bloody fight against strip-miners from Earth who have no compunctions about destroying the Na’Vi culture to get their hands on a precious mineral, unobtainium.

“Avatar was based on real but abstract stories. It came out of articles in National Geographic and documentaries on TV. “But after meeting the indigenous people of the Amazon with whom we communicated very clearly

and emotionally, it’s real for me. And it’s personal,” Cameron said. After he had finished filming Avatar, the veteran film director and self-avowed environmentalist traveled several times to Brazil on fact-finding missions to “drill down and study the tectonic interface between progress pushing up against the natural world and bulldozing it out of the way.”

“It’s happening now and it’s a reality for these people” in the Amazon, he

said, adding that his visits to Brazil had helped to shine an international spotlight on the fight being waged by Amazon communities to preserve their forest and river communities.

“Through our visits, we were able to get the story on the front page of newspapers in the US, and I don’t believe that the powers that be in Brazil really expected that kind of media scrutiny of a process they had tried to keep out of the public eye,” Cameron said. — AFP

James Cameron

vatar director James Cameron vowed Friday to fight on for the indigenous people of the Amazon after a Brazilian court overturned a ruling that would have halted construction of a huge dam that would flood tribal lands. “We are disappointed but we knew this would be a long battle,” Cameron told AFP by phone during a brief visit to Washington. “If Brazil lets me back in, I would love to come back down and work with the indigenous

‘Shrek’, ‘Toy Story’ aim for summer laughs

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exican-born actress Fernanda Romero has had bit parts in such movies as the horror film “Drag Me to Hell,” but federal prosecutors say her biggest act was pretending to be a bride. The 28-year-old actress and her husband were arrested Friday at their separate Los Angeles homes and charged with marriage fraud, the US attorney’s office said. They contend Romero paid Kent Ross, 28, to marry her in 2005 so that she could become a US resident.

Authorities said the two never lived together and Romero, whose full name is Maria Fernanda Romero Martinez, submitted phony documents with her residency application. An investigation began after Romero’s ex-boyfriend, fashion photographer Markus Klinko, told immigration authorities her marriage was a sham. The couple started dating after Romero and Ross were married. If convicted, Romero and Ross could be sentenced to up to five years in federal prison.

Romero has had roles in several small films and is moderately well known in Mexico, where she appeared in the TV Azteca soap “Eternamente Tuya.” She has also appeared on the Spanish-language channels Univision and Telemundo in the shows “Control” and “La Ley del Silencio,” respectively. According to her website, she has appeared in television and print ads for several US companies, as well as a music video. She moved to Los Angeles when she was 18 to study fashion design, according to her site.

Messages to her publicist were not returned Friday. A phone message left for Ross’ attorney, Mike Shannon, also was not returned.

Romero and Ross were both released after initial court appearances Friday. However, a judge restricted Romero’s travel to certain Southern California counties and said she could not leave the country. Special Assistant US Attorney James M Left, said immigration officials began investigating in 2007 after Klinko mentioned the marriage during a lawsuit he filed in New York.

Left says a marriage ceremony was performed on June 12, 2005, but the couple never lived together. He said immigration marriage fraud cases may be brought in either criminal or immigration courts. The case against Romero was pursued because of “the overwhelming amount of evidence” and repeated misstatements by the actress, Left said. “Immigration benefit fraud is a serious crime,” said Miguel Unzueta, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agent in charge in Los Angeles. “Not only does it potentially rob deserving immigrants of benefits they rightfully deserve, it also undermines the integrity of our nation’s legal immigration system.” — AP

tudio executives don’t care about your money. They just want you to laugh and love. But if you happen to turn your money over to them at the same time, all the better. Hollywood’s summer is crammed with comedy and romance, old friends such as Shrek, the “Toy Story” gang and the “Sex and the City” pals mixing with the latest from Adam Sandler, Will Ferrell and Steve Carell. Sarah Jessica Parker jokes that “Sex and the City 2” (releasing May 27) is like a Hope-andCrosby road movie. It takes Parker’s Carrie Bradshaw and the rest of her buddies (Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis and Cynthia Nixon) to Abu Dhabi, where their stylish Manhattan ways clash with strict Middle East traditions.

Despite the exotic setting, Carrie and friends are the same old foursome, trying to make sense of their relationships and have a good time while they’re at it. “It just is an opportunity for the characters to be two years older, slightly wiser, maybe more curious about things that they didn’t really think of before,” Parker said. “The dynamic hasn’t changed that much. It’s just that they’re two years older in the sort of natural way humans mature. Or not.” “Toy Story 3” (June 18) and “Shrek Forever After” (May 21) are fresh chapters to two

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of the biggest animated franchises ever.

The movies reunite their all-star voice casts, Tom Hanks and Tim Allen as Woody the cowboy and Buzz Lightyear in “Toy Story 3,” Mike Myers, Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy and Antonio Banderas as Shrek, Fiona, Donkey and Puss in Boots in “Shrek Forever After.” Billed as the franchise finale, the fourth “Shrek” movie spins an “It’s a Wonderful Life” nightmare in which the ogre was never born, never met his friends and never married the love of his life.

“What I love is with Shrek and Fiona, it’s their love story all over again. You get to watch these two characters fall in love all over again,” Diaz said. “That’s what was so beautiful and captivating in the first film.

These two, and how they come to know they are for one another, and true love.

You hope it does exist.” The playthings of “Toy Story 3” face their own nightmare the prospect of winding up in storage in the attic or worse, discarded - now that their kid has grown up. The movie carries on the franchise’s clever premise that Woody, Buzz and their toy friends come to life when people aren’t around.

“That’s why people have reacted to the ‘Toy Story’ movies over the years, because they can all tap into that feeling from when

they were kids of wondering whether their toys were actually alive,” said “Toy Story 3” director Lee Unkrich. “My wife has told me that she used to sit on her bed with all her toys and say to them, ‘Please, please. I won’t tell anybody if you come alive. I’ll keep it a secret. Please.”‘ Sandler teams with Chris Rock, Kevin James, David Spade and Rob Schneider for a comedy about five childhood pals reuniting as family men in “Grown Ups” (June 25). Ferrell joins Mark Wahlberg for “The Other Guys” (Aug. 6), the tale of a police accountant partnered with a tough street cop.

Carell does double duty, starring in the live-action romp “Dinner for Schmucks” (July 23) and providing the lead voice for the animated tale “Despicable Me” (July 6).

“Schmucks” casts Carell as an IRS man with a strange passion - costuming mice in intricate dioramas - who’s invited by a young executive (Paul Rudd) to a dinner where a prize goes to whoever brings the biggest idiot. In “Despicable Me,” Carell’s character is an aspiring supervillain whose scheme to steal the moon is interrupted by three orphan girls aiming to adopt him as their dad. Carell sees similarities between his two summer characters. “Both of them sort of live on the fringes of society. They

are essentially loners. They’ve carved out their world, they’ve chosen vocations that will satisfy them and make them happy,” Carell said. “But in both scenarios, something is introduced into their world that changes them and changes their perspective.” Other comedy and romance highlights: • “Nanny McPhee 2” (Aug 20): Emma Thompson returns as the supernanny, pitching in for the family of an overburdened mom (Maggie Gyllenhaal).

• “Get Him to the Greek” (June 4): A record label up-and-comer (Jonah Hill) must escort an unruly rock legend (Russell Brand) from London to an LA gig.

• “Scott Pilgrim vs the World” (Aug 13): A slacker (Michael Cera) must take on seven evil ex-boyfriends to win his dream girl.

• “Marmaduke” (June 4): Owen Wilson provides the voice of the comic-strip Great Dane as he adjusts to a new life after moving to California.

• “Just Wright” (May 14): A physical therapist (Queen Latifah) falls for her NBA star client, who only has eyes for another woman.

• “Ramona and Beezus” (July 23): Beverly Cleary’s children’s best-sell-

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‘Joneses’ offers clever, if slim satire

Steve Martin

Running time: 95 minutes. ★★★★ he Joneses” has a very clever concept: A marketing company dispatches a family of insanely appealing people, led by heads of household David Duchovny and Demi Moore, to make their neighbors covet all the cool gadgets and products they’ve got. It makes for good, though not great, satire of the consumer culture that helped wreck the economy, a gotta-have-it mindset that continues to flare up even in hard times (iPad, anyone?)

Duchovny and Moore do a fine job hawking first-time writer-director Derrick Borte’s premise, even if the story does diminish from a razor-sharp opening to a meandering midsection to a mushy Hollywood ending. Audiences won’t come away with any deep insights about our advertising age of acquisitiveness. But they will keep up with “The Joneses,” whose stars make it breezy and entertaining despite the gimmick at the heart of the story. The movie opens as Steve and Kate Jones (Duchovny and Moore) move into a beautiful home in an upscale neighborhood with their high

Steve Martin takes his banjo on tour

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tently to pick away on the banjo in his lap.

After spending two months on the road with the Steep Canyon Rangers last year and winning a Grammy in January, Martin has become an accidental ambassador for the banjo and bluegrass music. He speculates that only half the crowd at any of his concerts are there for the bluegrass and banjo music, “but they all go away very happy.” Martin’s success with the banjo has boosted bluegrass, says Rangers leader Woody Platt.

“Steve’s notoriety as a person, as a comedian, as an actor, I think is really wonderful for bluegrass music,” Platt says. “We’re a niche market and we need as many things as we can get to broaden the spectrum of listeners.” While Martin plans to keep up with writing (he has a novel coming out in November) and acting (his next film is “The Big Year” with Jack Black and Owen Wilson), it seems his heart is in his music.

“I like it all, but I’m finding that certainly music introduces me to a whole new group of people that I really, really like,” he says. “It uses another part of my brain and it’s just another experience for me, another discipline that’s really fun and unusual.” Touring is nothing new for Martin, who used to play the standup circuit.

But playing music on the road is different from telling jokes.

“I much prefer playing music,” Martin says.

“Because comedy, you’re on stage, it never stops. It never stops being worrying. But a song lasts three minutes.” And it’s “comforting” to look out into the crowd and see people happily humming along to the music, Martin says. —AP

Review

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ith no introduction or celebrity fanfare, Steve Martin steps onstage with the Steep Canyon Rangers bluegrass band, a banjo strapped to his chest. He’s not there to tell jokes, though he manages to squeeze in a few. He’s there to play music - songs from his Grammy-winning bluegrass album, “The Crow: New Songs for the Five-String Banjo.” Martin tells the crowd he met the band at a party in North Carolina, “but when we’re in California, I tell people we met in rehab.”

With that, he begins to play, with such conviction and skill that he’s clearly not joking. A banjo player for 45 years, Martin says he wrote every song in the hourlong set, just as he did all 15 tracks on his album, which spent a year atop Billboard’s bluegrass charts. He toured the country playing banjo last year and is embarking on a second nationwide tour tomorrow. The Steep Canyon Rangers serve as his backup band.

The 64-year-old actor-writer-musician says he fell in love with the banjo the first time he heard it during the 1960s folk-music craze. “It was just the sound of it,” Martin said in an interview before taking the stage. “It was like my ears were trying to part away the other instruments and focus on what is that instrument, and I’ve always loved it.” He told the audience inside the 250-seat Largo theater that he appreciates the banjo’s “elements of sadness and melancholy - like the expression on my agent’s face when I told him I wanted to do a banjo tour.” When Martin talks about music with a reporter, though, there are no jokes. He approaches the subject with the same earnestness and focus that he does his writing and acting projects, pausing intermit-

ers inspire this tale of a boisterous girl and her big sis (Joey King and Selena Gomez).

“Going the Distance” (Aug 27): A couple (Drew Barrymore and Justin Long) try to maintain a bicoastal relationship via Webcam and frequentflyer miles.

“Letters to Juliet” (May 14): A letter to Shakespeare’s star-crossed lover stirs up the romantic lives of an American (Amanda Seyfried) and a Brit (Vanessa Redgrave).

“Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore” (July 30): Talking pets duke it out as a feline mastermind plots to subjugate cats and dogs everywhere.

“The Lottery Ticket” (Aug 20): A young man (Bow Wow) who wins a $370 million lottery fends off greedy neighbors to collect his prize. With Ice Cube.

“Step Up 3D” (Aug 6): Dance goes 3D in this music romance about street dancers in a showdown with champion hip-hop hoofers.

“MacGruber” (May 21): Will Forte brings his “Saturday Night Live” soldier of fortune to the screen with an action comedy about a stolen warhead.

— AP

school kids, Jenn (Amber Heard) and Mick (Ben Hollingsworth). The Joneses’ impact is immediate: They have the newest, nicest everything - electronic devices, furnishings, cars, jewelry, clothes, and food.

And they are beyond eager to share the particulars of each product - where to get it and what makes it so good - with their new friends, including Larry and Summer (Gary Cole and Glenne Headly),

Stuck in Oslo, John Cleese takes a taxi to Brussels

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onty Python comedy legend John Cleese took a 5,100 dollar taxi ride from Oslo to Brussels after becoming stranded in Europe’s volcanic ash travel crisis, the Norwegian TV2 broadcaster reported yesterday. “We checked every option, but there were no boats and no train tickets available. That’s when my fabulous assistant determined the easiest thing would be to take a taxi,” Cleese told the broadcaster in a telephone interview posted on its website in Norwegian. The bill? A whopping 30,000 kroner (3,800 euros/5,100 dollars), said Cleese, who was visiting the Norwegian

capital to take part in the popular Scandinavian talk show Skavlan.

The taxi carried two extra drivers for the 1,500 kilometer (930 mile) drive, TV2 reported. “It will be interesting. I’m not in a hurry,” Cleese said, adding that from Brussels he planned to take the Eurostar train to London, where he hoped to arrive by 3:00 pm (1400 GMT) today. “I will think about a joke you’ve probably already heard: How do you get God to laugh? Tell him your plans,” Cleese said. The comedian is not the only one spending heavily on taxis as the volcanic ash from Iceland spreads over Europe. —AFP

neighbors who attempt to renew their strained marriage by following the conspicuous example of the Joneses. Turns out the new folks on the block are not a real family, but a group of stealth marketers overseen by KC (Lauren Hutton), an executive who specifies the products their company’s clients want pushed.

After an excellent setup, the story sputters. Borte tacks on some interpersonal hijinks for Jenn and Mick that add little,

and it’s hard to imagine that the townsfolk would be fooled into believing that twentysomethings Heard and Hollingsworth are high schoolers, though that’s a small gripe. Hollywood has been selling grown-ups as kids in movies forever.

What holds “The Joneses” together so well is the great interplay between Duchovny and Moore. “The X-Files” and “Californication” star Duchovny has strained at some big-screen romantic leads before, but he nails this one with his easy charm and salesman’s finesse.

Moore has made some odd choices (“Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle”?) given how picky she’s been on parts for more than a decade. She’s relaxed and seems to be having a great time in “The Joneses,” making Kate’s strange domestic relationship with Steve fun to watch as the two grow closer. It stays fun even as the movie ultimately sells out with a fuzzy romantic climax. But like any good case of envy, “The Joneses” leaves you vaguely dissatisfied and wanting more.

“The Joneses,” a Roadside Attractions release, is rated R for language, some sexual content, teen drinking and drug use. . — AP

British actor and singer Lee Ryan poses in front of a TVR sports car for the world premiere of his latest film, ‘The Heavy’ in London’s Leicester Square, on April 15, 2010. — AFP

www.kuwaittimes.net

China’s latest luxury obsession: Tibetan mastiffs H

back to Tibet every year to seek prospective additions to his stock.

He also provides breeding services and charges up to 100,000 yuan ($14,650) for a session with one of his pedigrees. “This is like a car. You drive a German Mercedes or BMW and I drive a Chinese Xiali or mini van. Everybody has their own choices,” he told Reuters. “These dogs at the moment are a kind of choice for status and wealth,” said You, whose pure breed mastiffs can fetch up to 300,000 yuan each.

Tibetan mastiffs hit the headlines last year when a buyer in China’s western Shaanxi province paid 4 million yuan for a

mastiff cumbersomely named Yangtze River Number Two. Yangtze however lost its topdog status in April this year as the awardwinning mastiff Red Lion was snapped up for more than $1 million, according to the official Xinhua news agency. The Chengdubased mastiff was sold for a hefty 10 million yuan, Xinhua added.

Pets, pets, everywhere While the mastiffs have cornered the top-end of China’s dog market, pet-owning, once banned by the Communist Party, is becoming much more popular among the country’s affluent middle to upper classes, many of whom are products of the coun-

try’s strict one-child policy and who are happy to indulge their pets.

“When you have a dog now you have to give them dog food, take them to the doctor for check-ups and do other things that require the investment of financial resources,” said 25-year-old Scottish-collie owner Li Su, as she put her dog through a grooming session costing more than $30.

“For normal families these are not small expenses. So it can be considered a sign of wealth.”

Grooming salons, pet shops and veterinary clinics have sprung up around Beijing with people spending significant amounts

on the purchase and upkeep of an animal that is a symbol of their affluence, as well as a pet, according to Mary Peng, CoFounder of International Centre for Veterinary Services. “It is both. It is a sign of wealth and it is also a sign of love, and the human animal bond is getting stronger and stronger in our country,” Peng said.

“Five years ago when, pets started becoming very popular especially dogs, there were a lot of pure-bred dogs that were being purchased. And many pet owners did see that as a sort of a symbol of their economic wherewithal to be able to say that I spent five thousand, ten thou-

sand, or more on a dog.” Chinese cities remain subject to strict canine laws and pricey fees and fines for keeping dogs and restrictions on the ownership of large dogs within city centers.

Authorities have blamed illegal dogkeeping on a spate of rabies outbreaks across China last year, prompting a mass cull that drew condemnation from international animal rights groups. Despite this, pet ownership, like China’s economic growth, continues to expand, Peng added, with an 8 percent rise in the number of furry and feathered animals taken home every year. — Reuters

Gucci to launch children’s wear he Italian fashion house’s creative director, Frida Giannini, wants to branch out into kids clothes with a range being available from June. The first line will be unveiled in Italy and then hit around 40 stores worldwide. Frida is currently in Singapore - where she announced her future plans - and was honoured to have an orchid named after her, the Paravanda Frida. She said: “It was very touching and I loved the thought that the orchid will still be there a few hundred years from now. I have never experienced such an honor before.”

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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

ailing from the Himalayan plateau, the lion-like Tibetan mastiff has become China’s latest expensive indulgence. The shaggy, 82 kg (180 lb) dog, known for its loyal but fierce disposition, has become the latest accessory for the country’s legions of wealthy who are snapping up prime real estate, diamonds and luxury cars as the rest of the world slowly recovers from the fallout of the global economic crisis. You Wenfa, owner of a mastiff breeding farm on the outskirts of Beijing, saw potential profits from the enormous hounds and purchased his first dog in the early 1990s.

You currently has over 40 dogs and goes

Models wear creations by Mexican designer Cesar Franco at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion show in Mexico City, Friday, April 16, 2010. — AP

Models display creations by Venezuelan designer Angel Sanchez during the MercedesBenz Fashion Week in Mexico City on April 16, 2010.

The orchid, a white flower with fuchsia tips, was also the inspiration for 88 limited edition Boston bags which Frida exclusively designed for Singapore to benefit children’s charity Mainly I Love Kids (MILK). The white-and-pink Paravanda Frida bags sold out within a month of their launch in February, which left Frida stunned.

Speaking at the opening of the revamped Gucci flagship at the Paragon mall on Orchard Road, Frida told WWD: “I always feel surprised in a very positive way at how customers really relate to the brand.”— Bangshowbiz