30 Mar

CR IP TI ON BS SU

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

Gunmen kill 58 in grisly Iraq hostage siege

Iranians enjoy holiday freedoms in Armenia

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RABI ALTHANI 25, 1432 AH

World’s highest hotel opens in Hong Kong

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Sri Lanka in final, Cup braced for Indo-Pak clash

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Three get death in Iran spy ring

Max 29 Min 15 Low Tide 03:40 : 15:27 High Tide 10:10 & 21:16

Defendants convicted of passing sensitive info to Tehran `

conspiracy theories

Believe it or not!

By Badrya Darwish

badrya_d@kuwaittimes.net

W

here can I start? It’s not one of my best days for writing. Because if all what I read is true, it’s a disaster! It means we are living in a fake world. Would you believe these stories?! We all got excited over the revolution that took place in Egypt we called it a gentleman’s uprising. Mubarak has gone, but rumours persist that Egypt is still controlled

by Mubarak from his palace in Sharm El-Sheikh. I have no idea.

The revolution in Libya is now stretching on. Of course we all sympathized with the Libyan people.

But what after the bombardment of Gaddafi’s forces?

Will the man really go? There are rumours that the West might keep him in Tripoli and divide the country. And what does it mean when a small country like Qatar takes charge of the rebel-held oil? Why Qatar?

To whom will Qatar sell this oil? Won’t it be to the US and the West? And whose help will Qatar take to produce this oil? And why did they rush to do this? This puts hundreds of question marks on why the allied forces are hitting Libya. Don’t misunderstand me - I’m not in defence of the tyrant Gaddafi. In fact he’s the first to blame for this tragedy.

Look at Yemen too. Nobody’s charging to strike Ali Saleh. Of course, Yemen has no oil. Nobody will pay the bills. The man is not worth spending $1.5 million for each Tomahawk missile! So let the Yemenis struggle their way out with their own local jambiyas (daggers) that they wear around their waists as part of their national dress.

Now comes Syria! There are hundreds of question marks here too. Will the Israelis allow a genuine democratic country on their doorstep? Or they believe in the saying that ‘The devil you know is better than the one you don’t’. Hillary stated yesterday that “we will not intervene in Syria the way we did in Libya.” She said that “we are asking the Syrian govt not to use force on the demonstrators. “ Let’s jump to the other side of the continent India. I was shocked to read that Gandhi could be gay.

I don’t want to believe it even if it’s true. I looked up to him since my elementary school days. Enough quizzes for today. My mind cannot take it anymore.

KUWAIT: Kuwaiti policewomen perform during an officers’ graduation ceremony at the Saad Al-Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences yesterday. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat (See Page 3)

Syria govt resigns after protests sweep country DAMASCUS: Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad accepted his government’s resignation yesterday after nearly two weeks of prodemocracy unrest that has posed the gravest challenge to his 11-year rule. But the move was unlikely to satisfy protester demands since the cabinet has little authority in Syria,

where power is concentrated in the hands of Assad, his family and the security apparatus. Tens of thousands of Syrians held pro-government rallies yesterday, awaiting a speech in which Assad was expected to announce a decision on lifting emergency laws that have served to crush dissent for almost 50 years.

That is a key demand of anti-government demonstrations in which more than 60 people have been killed. “President Assad accepts the government’s resignation,” the state news agency SANA said, adding that Naji Al-Otari, the prime minister since 2003, would remain Continued on Page 18

BIN JAWAAD, Libya: A Libyan rebel urges people to leave as shelling from Gaddafi’s forces started landing on the frontline 150 km east of Sirte yesterday. — AP

KUWAIT: Independent MP Faisal Al-Duwaisan (right) speaks to National Assembly General Secretary Allam Al-Kandari yesterday as he filed to question Information and Oil Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Sabah. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

MP files to quiz minister

By B Izzak

Forces push back rebels TRIPOLI: Muammar Gaddafi’s better armed and organised troops reversed the westward charge of Libyan rebels as world powers met in London yesterday to plot the country’s future without the “brother leader”. British Prime Minister David Cameron, opening the London conference, accused government troops of “murderous attacks”, while US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said military strikes would continue until Gaddafi loyalists ceased violence. The United States is scaling back to a “supporting role” to let NATO take full command from US forces today, but air strikes by US, French and British planes remain key to smashing Gaddafi’s armour and facilitating rebel advances.

Continued on Page 18

KUWAIT: Two Iranians and a Kuwaiti national, all serving in Kuwait’s army, were condemned to death yesterday for belonging to an Iranian spy ring, a judiciary source said. A Syrian and a bedoon (stateless Arab) were handed life terms at the end of the trial, while an Iranian man and the only woman defendant - daughter of one of the two Iranians on death row - were acquitted, he said. The three men condemned to death and the Syrian were serving in the Kuwaiti military at the time of their arrest in May 2010, while the bedoon was an ex-soldier. The two Iranians handed the death sentence and the convicted stateless Arab appeared by their names to be brothers.

The defendants were accused of spying for neighbouring Iran and of passing on information on the Kuwaiti and US military in Kuwait to the Islamic republic’s Revolutionary Guards, an accusation denied by Tehran.

The criminal court’s verdict can be appealed up to the supreme court. The trial which opened last August was held behind closed doors, and judge Adel Al-Sager slapped a news blackout on the case.

The court heard charges that the spy ring had passed on confidential military information to a foreign nation, taken pictures of Kuwaiti military installations and spied for Iran. According to local media, the men confessed to monitoring and photographing Kuwaiti and US military sites for the Revolutionary Guard, but the defendants denied the charges in court and said confessions were extracted under torture. Iran has strongly rejected the charges of spying for its benefit, insisting the accusations were “absolutely false”. A day after the alleged cell was busted, several MPs called for the expulsion of Shiite Iran’s ambassador in Kuwait City and for the recall of the state’s envoy to Tehran. About 45,000 Iranians live and work in Kuwait, which has a sizeable Shiite minority. — AFP

DAMASCUS: A pro-Syrian President Bashar Assad woman waves the Syrian flag as she looks to the crowd demonstrating to show their support for their president yesterday. — AP

Bahrain Shiite ex-MPs may face prosecution MANAMA: Bahrain’s parliament yesterday accepted the resignation of 11 Shiite MPs, exposing them to possible legal action, after a news blackout on the arrests of top activists in a crackdown on anti-regime protests. In a unanimous vote the house “accepted the resignations of 11 MPs of Al-Wefaq”, which with 18 seats makes up the largest bloc in the 40-member parliament of the Shiite-majority state, official news agency BNA said. It said parliament decided to postpone a vote on the other seven members of AlWefaq, which heads the opposition in the Gulf country ruled by a Sunni royal family. Al-Wefaq members resigned en masse in protest at the use of deadly force against demonstrators.

Yesterday’s vote cleared the way for the possible prosecution of the outspoken former MPs now stripped of parliamentary immunity, following calls for the opposition to face charges in court.

Continued on Page 18

KUWAIT: Independent Shiite MP Faisal Al-Duwaisan yesterday submitted a request to grill Information Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah over financial and administrative irregularities and failure to perform his job. Most MPs welcomed the grilling while others cast doubts on the motives, with liberal MP Abdulrahman Al-Anjari bluntly saying it was a reflection of a dispute within the ruling family and Islamist MP Faisal Al-Mislem charging it was in fact a grilling by the prime minister against one of his ministers.

Continued on Page 18

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

LOCAL

Chronic diabetic foot ulcers can be cured with Heberprot-P Cuban delegation visits Kuwait

By Ben Garcia KUWAIT: Diabetic foot ulcers, a chronic condition commonly suffered by diabetics, can now be cured using ‘Heberprot-P,’ a new medicine discovered in Cuba, which could be available very soon in Kuwait, according to Dr Nora Lina Alonso Diaz, the head of the three-member Cuban Medical delegation currently visiting the country. The three doctors arrived in Kuwait last Friday at the invitation of Kuwait’s Ministry of Health (MoH). The team was warmly welcomed by the Cuban Ambassador to Kuwait Manuel Pardinas Ajeno. Since the first day of their visit, the team members have been busy meeting with several local health officials and visiting medical facilities in Kuwait, mainly to introduce the recently discovered medicine but also to seek more means of bilateral cooperation. The team will be in Kuwait until Friday.

Speak ing with the Kuwait Times at the Movenpick Hotel in Shuwaik h yesterday, Dr. Diaz expressed a desire to share the ‘wonder drug’ with Kuwait’s diabetes sufferers, saying that it has been proved to heal previously incurable diabetic foot ulcers in just over seven weeks of continuous.

“This remarkable drug [medicine] has been on the market since 2007 and we would like to share this with the world,” said the delegation head. “It’s been patented and registered in Cuba since 2006 and many countries around the world are now happily acquiring the medicine and people can now hope for a cure even for those foot ulcer that have already scheduled

believes we can help them in this area so we are here simply to offer our expertise based on our experience,” he explained. “ This is the area where they believed we could be of help.”

The delegation consists of three medical experts specializing in different areas of medicine. Dr Diaz is the assistant dean of the Medical University in Havana, as well as being in charge of the Cuban government’s commercial health sector for Middle East affairs.

The two other doctors accompanying Diaz are Dr Oscar Diaz Diaz, the Director of the National Institute of Endocrinology and head of Cuba’s National Diabetes Program, and Dr Yolanda Velazquez Villares, an ophthalmol-

KUWAIT: The Cuban medical delegation headed by Dr Nora Alonso Diaz, second right, with Cuban Ambassador to Kuwait Manuel Pardinas Ajeno (second left).

—Photo by Ben Garcia for amputation; with Heberprot-P, there’s no need to amputate, there is Heberprot-P.” The product was developed by the Havana-based Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB). I t has received widespread recognition, including recently winning the Gold Medal given by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) last Friday [March 25, 2011] at a ceremony in Havana.

Positive testimonies have been pouring in from Heberprot-P users in Cuba and elsewhere in the world about the ‘wonder drug’ ever since its discovery, testifying to its efficacy, the doctor added. “Kuwait

ogist, specialist, consultant and professor of the Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology. All three delegates voiced hope that their visit would pave the way to signing an agreement with Kuwait ’s MoH shortly. “Our visit is aimed at signing certain types of agreements,” the delegation head said without elaborating. Senior Kuwaiti health officials have reciprocally expressed a wish to cooperate with the Cuban Ministry of Health to bringing Kuwaiti patients to Cuba for medical treatment,” added Dr. Diaz. “We are currently establishing links with them to offer our numerous medical services. The most important thing is

cooperation and exchange of ideas and maybe we could cooperate in the research and development fields wherein they already have here,” she added.

Ambassador Ajeno, meanwhile, stressed the impor tance of the medical team’s visit and the potential economic benefits for both countries, also recalling the visit to Cuba by Kuwait ’s M inister of Health Dr. Helal Al-Sayer, in September last year. “The visit of the Cuban medical delegation today is very important for both [Cuba and Kuwait] because it aims at strengthening our bilateral ties,” the ambassador noted. “The medical field is one area that we both want to promote and Cuba is really keen on promoting health related products and services.”.

Ambassador Ajeno told the Kuwait Times that Heberprot-P is widely known amongst medical exper ts now, especially in the Americas, Africa, Europe and Asia, adding that the United Nations has already acknowledged the Cuban health sector as one of the best in the world. “In this [acknowledgement], it is important to have this medical team in this countr y where I am serving as the chief of mission,” he added. “Health for instance is a sector where you can never separate the rich and the poor. When we talk about health we all agree that it’s a universal need that we all tend to share and agree upon. But even with such discoveries as Heberprot-P, Cuba believes that prevention is always better than cure.”

The Cuban Ministry of Public Health offers services in areas of ophthalmology, dermatology, orthopedics, traumatology, cardiovascular surgery, cosmetic surgery and retinitis pigmentosa among others. Cuba is proud of its medical facilities, its highly trained professional experts and its long history of medical training/programs being globally respected, even in the United States. For more details about Cuban Medical Ser vices please visit their website: www.smcsalud.cu

Reborn Academy marathon raises money for a good cause

By Abdullah Al-Qattan KUWAIT: The Reborn Kids Education Academy yesterday held a marathon for students, parents and staff at its Rawda premises. The funds raised from the event, which was held under the auspices of distinguished guests, including the Minister of Health Dr Helal Al-Sayer and health expert Mustafa Hayat, were donated to the Bayt Abdullah Children’s Hospice.

Myrna Fernandez of Reborn Academy told the Kuwait Times that the marathon was intended to raise awareness amongst pupils and parents of the importance of giving to the community and to encourage charitable work. “This is the second time that we’ve collaborated with Bayt Abdullah,” Fernandez revealed.

“We’ve found that working with such an organization is very rewarding and the kids in the academy are learning positive lessons in giving and cherishing what they have.”

She continued, “The fact that they are privileged children is something that they’re learning to see as a blessing more and more, and they’re learning to give back to the community. Even the children who couldn’t make it to the event today donated the entrance fees to the marathon because they believe in giving to the community.”

Reborn Academy works closely

with charity organizations to promote civic duties and obligations.

Even though the pupils’ ages range between two and four, Ms Fernandez says that the impact of such activities has extended to the children’s household and family members.

“We took it upon ourselves to hold at least one activity per semester that involves community service,” she explained. “We want to

promote recycling in the school, and we have many parents come and tell us that their children disapprove of disposing recyclables,” she revealed. “They ask their parents to send the recyclables with them to the school where there are designated recycling bins.”

The Reborn Kids Education Academy participates in several joint projects with charity organizations,

—Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat involve kids in the community, we want them to develop a sense of belonging. This is their Kuwait, their country, and they have duties towards it.”

Speaking about the experience of teaching values to the pupils, teacher Latifa Almandeel explained that the children absorb all the positive values they learn at the school and try to apply them at home. “We

including one to sponsor children in poor areas in Africa,” the teacher explained. “We let the kids donate toys that they love to the poor kids in Africa - we don’t want them to give away leftover toys. We ask them, ‘Is there a toy that you really like and you wish to share it with your friends in Africa?’ and we wrap the toys as gifts and send them. The reactions have been extremely positive so far.”

Amir’s efforts support Bahrain CP’s initiative MANAMA: The Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain said yesterday that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Sabah’s great contributions towards Bahrain stem from his belief that the nations of Bahrain and Kuwait are one and inseparable.

In a statement quoted by Bahraini newspaper Al-Wasat, Ambassador Sheikh Azzam Mubarak Al-Sabah said that Kuwait, represented by HH the Amir, has sought and will always seek unifying stances and the bilateral coordination of opinions. “What has been achieved is a positive interaction with the initiative of the Crown Prince of Bahrain Sheikh Salman Bin Hamad AlKhalifa for national dialogue,” the ambassador was quoted as saying.

Kuwait already dispatched a civil delegation under the framework of the initiative to aid the dialogue’s success, the ambassador explained, adding that during its visit to Bahrain the delegation held meetings with the Bahraini Crown Prince and several opposition leaders. Kuwait, said the ambassador, “was living every moment of the events of Bahrain.”

The Bahraini developments began with peaceful protests, which resulted in the country’s King Hamad Bin Issa Al-Khalifa calling for a dialogue that groups all the sides involved, noted the ambassador, adding, “After this, escalations developed into a direction that affected safety and security, which compelled the country into imposing a state of national security.” —KUNA

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

Years

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Amir sponsors, attends graduation ceremony KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, sponsored and attended yesterday the graduation ceremony of officers at Saad Al-Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences.

The motorcade of His Highness the Amir was warmly welcomed by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Ahmed Al-Hmoud Al-Sabah, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior, Lt Gen Ghazi Abdulrahman Al-Omar, Assistant Undersecretary for Education and Training Affairs Lt Gen Sheikh Ahmad Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, assistant undersecretaries and Director General of Saad Al-Abdullah Academy for Security Sciences, Maj Gen Fahd Al-Sharqawi and senior officers.

The graduation ceremony was attended by His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, National Assembly Speaker Jassem Al-Khorafi, sheikhs, His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, senior state officials as well as a large crowd of graduate students’ families and citizens.

The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran.

Director General of the Academy said in his speech that the Academy of Saad Al-Abdullah bears in mind the challenges and responsibilities facing the security apparatus in the light of changes and developments facing our contemporary world.

“We are aware today of all that is happening around us of sequential and accelerating developments in our region and the resulting instability that would affect the national unity, a matter that requires us to develop the security services and work on updating and organizing them, and strive to advance intellectually and culturally to build a strong relationship between ordinary people and security men”, he added.

His Highness the Amir then presented the ceritificates to the graduates and was presented, along with HH the Crown Prince, the Acadmey’s commomorative shield. — KUNA

Al-Khorafi calls for avoiding statements affecting unity Praise for role played by sisterly countries KUWAIT: National Assembly Speaker Jassem Al-Khorafi stressed here the significance of maintaining the national unity, and shunning off statements that might offend sisterly countries. Al-Khorafi also recalled the honorable role played by such sisterly countries toward Kuwait during the invasion launched by the defunct Iraqi regime of Saddam Hussein, and also their role in liberating Kuwait. Kuwaiti top lawmaker made the previous remarks to the press when asked on the statements made by some in what harms ties with the sisterly countries along with the turmoil-packed atmosphere in the country.

Al-Khorafi said, “it is doubtless that such statements harm the ties between the State of Kuwait and some sisterly countries as well as the relations binding us within our country.” He added that, “there are sisterly countries which have a superb status, and played a key role in standing up against the invasion launched by the defunct Iraqi regime, and in supporting Kuwait during liberation, and Kuwaiti people hold such countries in high

esteem and will never forget their stances opposing to the occupation.”

Al-Khorafi went on to say, “so we should be keen on not offending our sisterly countries, and not offending each others.”

He also stressed that any sisterly country like the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia or any other country that contributed to liberating Kuwait “should not feel except the appreciation” of the State of Kuwait, represented by its government and people, for the honorable role it played, and the sacrifices it offered during the time of invasion and liberation.

Al-Kharafi made clear that the statements made by “fellow” members of parliament or those circulated among people, “further fuel tension, and create unhealthy atmosphere,” in a small country like Kuwait, calling for the necessity of shunning off such statements, and that, “we should keep adhered to national unity which we are all so eager for it, and are always accustomed to it.”

Further, he asserted the importance of keeping away from “unavailing” statements,

EPA working to eradicate Um Al-Hayman pollution KUWAIT: The director of Kuwait’s Environmental Public Authority (EPA) said on Monday that the authority has begun taking action in implementation of the 2009 ministerial decision to tackle pollution in the Ali Sabah Al-Salem area, better known as Um AlHayman. EPA head Saleh Al-Moudhi told AlWatan that the isolated area between Um AlHayman and the industrial zone in West Shuaiba where most of the polluting factories are located had been fenced off and prepared for the planting of trees to help eliminate the worst of the pollution effects.

Al-Moudhi further revealed that the EPA has signed an agreement with a local firm to provide wind turbines, which absorb the pollutants and turn the resulting humidity into clean water. The devices were made especially for Kuwait, he revealed, adding that the first of the turbines are expected to arrive and be installed next month and that if they

prove successful in their objective the company will be asked to provide more of them.

The EPA head asserted that the upcoming period will see positive results in the authority’s efforts to reduce pollution levels in the area, adding that the situation there will be greatly improved by the beginning of 2012.

Al-Moudhi also revealed that the most heavily-polluting factories are to be relocated to the new industrial zone in Shaqaya, with meetings currently taking place with officials at the ministries and other bodies concerned to ensure that this relocation is carried out as soon as possible. He also revealed that the EPA’s other plans include conducting a detailed survey of area residents, which is to be carried out by the Ministry of Health in coordination with the World Health Organization, in order to determine the medical problems associated with the pollution there.

in a reference that this comes out of the keenness of all parties on, “the ties binding us whether as members of parliament or as Kuwaiti citizens.”

He also hoped, and wished that, “we observe the duties that God preordained upon us toward Kuwait, be keen on protecting the national unity, and work toward closing ranks in the interest of Kuwait.”

On the current demands filed by some MPs on forming a popular parliamentary delegation that will visit some Arab Gulf countries in a show of support to them, Al-Kharafi said that, “this is the role of the foreign ministry because it is the concerned body.”

However, he added that, “in case we find this necessary, we will scrutinize it, and will do our part if we have any,” adding, “but if we have not, intrusion upon others is not one the qualities of the National Assembly.”

Answering a question on how the speakership will address the several would-be interpellations requests, and whether it is going to tackle four grilling requests at one session like

before, he said that, “if it happens to be several requests on the agenda of a single session, I will abide by regulations and deliberate them all, one following the other, even if we had to stay till the early hours of the following day at Parliament.”

Al-Kharafi also said that he received a message from Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, State Minister for Housing Affairs, and State Minister for Development Affairs Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah, “asking for clarifications,” on the grilling request filed against him in his own capacity

by MPs Adel Al-Sarawi and Marzouq AlGhanim.

Finally, Al-Kharafi said that he dispatched such message to the two members of parliament, adding, “I hope that required clarifications will be answered before the session at which the grilling request will be mulled,” noting that such clarifications are related to the topics, “mentioned, and they are general and unspecified ones according to parliament’s bylaw.” — KUNA

Bahraini opposition delegation sought assurances, not mediation KUWAIT: The leader of an activist group in the Kingdom of Bahrain has rejected what he called “outside interference in Bahrain’s internal affairs,” alluding to news reports which suggested that Kuwait might play a mediatory role between the ruling family and opposition at the island-kingdom.

Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Mahmoud, chairman of the Bahraini National Unity Group, told Kuwaiti daily Al-Rai that his group would not allow Bahrain’s problem to be “internationalized,” expressing his rejection of “any invitation made by the opposition to a foreign country or organization to interfere in Bahrain’s internal affairs.”

The activist also talked about the visit to Kuwait by a delegation of members of the Bahraini opposition, which news

reports hinted were made in preparation for Kuwait’s potential mediation role in helping to end the current tensions there.

Al-Mahmoud accused the opposition in Bahrain of showing no willingness to sit down for dialogue with the Bahraini leadership “before asking Kuwait for mediation.” He also claimed that, based on information he has received, the opposition delegation wasn’t actually seeking mediation during its trip to Kuwait, asserting that the delegates had instead “asked for a Kuwaiti assurance for the Bahraini ruling system, in exchange for having Shiite Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani as a warrantor for the opposition in Bahrain.” Sheikh Dr. Al-Mahmoud further insisted that such demands “can never be accepted” by his group.

Al-Fahad confident as MPs prepare for ‘heated’ debate KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah isn’t bothered by the accusations made against him as he prepares to face the first grilling of his political career, reported Al-Rai. He said that the three year break he took from his career gave him an opportunity to assess the ambitions and demands of the Kuwaiti people so that he could best fulfill them when he returned to the Cabinet.

Upon returning from his three year hiatus, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad was appointed to the position of Housing and Development Minister as well as the Deputy Prime Minister in 2009. Sheikh Al-Fahad made his remarks during a seminar organized recently by the administrative sciences faculty of Kuwait University. As anticipated, the grilling motion filed against him by the National Action Bloc (NAB) was brought up, on which he commented by saying that, “Reaching the political questioning phase is a positive step in the progress of the development plan.” He urged college students attending the seminar not to be concerned by the country’s current political situation.

The grilling comes amid reports indicating that Sheikh Al-Fahad made inquiries to the Speaker Of Parliament Jassem Al-Khurafi about the grilling, which is scheduled to take place during the parliament’s April 5 session.

According to official sources, of the questions that will be submitted to the deputy prime minister many of them will focus on issues regarding the execution of the development plan. However, the subject itself is only one of four that will be focused on by his grillers. The other questions will touch on the housing and sports sectors as well as national unity.

However, those grilling Sheikh Al-Fahad described his latest move as “an attempt to abort the grilling.” MP Marzouq Al-Ghanim, who filed the grilling motion along with fellow NAB member Adel Al-Saraawi, in a recent statement strongly condemned “all activities targeting the grilling, such as referring the subject to the [parliament’s] legislative committee or to the constitutional court.” He insisted that Sheikh Al-Fahad face the grilling “so that he can answer to the accusations.” The lawmaker further promised the public a “classy grilling,” which he says “will expose the violations Sheikh Al-Fahad committed since he assumed his ministerial duties.” He reiterated that the evidence they have against him will prove he is corrupt.

Meanwhile MP Adel Al-Saraawi, a lawmaker well known for his criticisms against Sheikh Al-Fahad continued to refer to the alleged influence that Sheikh Al-Fahad is accused of having to cover up his various violations.

Several grillers have used the term ‘state of Ahmad AlFahad’ to hint that the deputy prime minister has been able to evade punishment despite his various violations. In a recent statement, Al-Saraawi said that he is in possession of documents that prove there were violations that led to the waste of public funds during the 16th Gulf of Nations Football Tournament hosted by Kuwait in 2003.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

LOCAL Kuwait Digest

Spreading rumors in society!

By Ahmed Mohammed Al-Fahad

I KUWAIT: Abdulaziz Al-Khaldi (middle) cutting the ribbon. The Egyptian Ambassador to Kuwait Taher Farahat (left) is also seen.

KUWAIT: Representatives of the Kuwait Airways in group photo with Al-Khaldi.

—Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

30 institutions participate in World Travel Exhibition Special offers for travelers

By Nawara Fattahova KUWAIT: Before traveling season starts

people can plan the best deals for their desired destination at the World Travel Exhibition at the Kuwait International Fairgrounds (KIF) in Hall 8 from March 29 - April 1. There are 30 public and private institutions and companies participating in the exhibition. Visitors will find travel agents, airlines, hotels, entertainment companies, embassies, tourist organizations, press houses, ministries, medical services, heritage collectors, nongovernmental organizations and cafes at the exhibition. The participants are providing special offers for travelers. “Visitors can get discounted airline tickets along with hotel reservations for surprising prices,” said Abdulaziz Al-Khaldi, Undersecretary of the Ministr y of Commerce and Industry during the launch of the exhibition yesterday.

“Participants come from different countries in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Arab countries. Even Arab countries that witnessed recent political events are participating in this fair. I don’t think they were affected by the event and they still have a lot to offer.”

The exhibition’s launch was attended by ambassadors and diplomats to Kuwait in addition to officials from local and international travel agencies and airlines.

Abdulrahaman Al-Nassar, Deputy Chairman and the CEO of KIF, and other KIF officials attended the opening.

According to Al-Khaldi the Ministry of Commerce and Industry didn’t hear that any travel agencies were facing any obstacles. “We didn’t receive any complaints from travel agencies noting problems or crises so I think the travel and tourimt situation is fine,” he noted.

Kuwait has the ability to become a tourist destination. “We have many nice places here in Kuwait to attract tourists.

We have beautiful beaches and entertainment parks. We also have some historical places in different areas and the National Council For Culture, Arts, and Letters is managing these locations. We have great malls that can attract shopping tourists,” Al-Khaldi pointed out.

The Ministr y of Commerce and Industry is promoting Kuwait as a touristic destination. “The ministry’s tourism center plays a great role in promoting Kuwait internationally. We participated in

the travel fair held in Berlin recently and we will soon participate in another fair in Spain. We offer specials to attract tourists,” he explained.

To achieve this plan the Ministry has to work with other authorities. “We are cooperating with other institutions to transform Kuwait into a touristic country.

For instance, airline carriers can provide cheaper tickets to attract tourists,” AlKhaldi concluded.

The exhibition is open to the public from 9:30 am - 1:00 pm and from 4:30 9:30 pm. On Fridays it will be open from 4:30 - 10:30 pm.

KUWAIT: Al-Khaldi on a tour at the fair.

Sandstorm causes cold front between Kuwait’s meteorologists KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti meteorologist has

demanded that the personnel of the state’s official meteorological department be held accountable for failing to predict the mega sandstorm that hit the country last Friday and caused the loss of some lives, as well as serious damage to property.

“Millions of dinars have been spent on equipment that could automatically detect such sandstorms before they hit the country,” meteorologist Adel AlSaadoun told Al-Rai, referring to the Directorate General for Civil Aviation’s

(DGCA) meteorological department. AlSaadoun further criticized the department’s supervisor, Issa Ramadan, over reports which suggested that Ramadan had attempted to justify the department’s shortcomings by saying that there aren’t enough specialist Kuwaiti staff working there.

“All state departments have Kuwaiti and non-Kuwaiti staff; does that make them a failure as well?” asked a skeptical Al-Saadoun, who owns his own private meteorological center in Al-Fintas.

Tensions between him and Ramadan

have been ongoing ever since the latter allegedly stated during a TV appearance that meteorological analysis should not be taken from nonacademic figures. Al-Saadoun believes that those statements were targeted at him, as well as at another veteran Kuwaiti meteorologist, Dr. Saleh Al-Ujairi, although he himself is a Kuwait University graduate.

Al-Saadoun further asserted in remarks sure to cause controversy, “[Ramadan] believes that our forecasts, which he alleges to be inaccurate, put

citizens’ lives in danger, whereas in reality it was his department’s failure to predict the massive sandstorm that led for the unfortunate loss of lives.”

Al-Saadoun also accused Ramadan of “always seeking to take the spotlight” through limiting media appearances from the meteorological department to himself exclusively. “The department has employees whose job is to keep relevant bodies updated with weather forecasts, and its work shouldn’t be dominated by a single person obsessed with showmanship”, he added.

find it extremely disgusting to read any news report that indulges in spreading false information, resorts to defaming innocent people or even engages in rumors or slander. Recent reports indicate that the Al-Alam (World) channel claims that whenever Bahraini citizens indulge in small talk, gossip or even venture further into spreading vicious rumors and are asked about the source of those rumors they blame the channel.

The latest joke that seems to be making the rounds happens to originate from the LebaneseIranian co-hosted channel which goes something like: “Dear fools ... We do not need your jokes at this particular time of the year simply because the AlAlam channel has already told us hundreds within a very short period of time.”

And it seems that our very own MP Saleh Ashour literally toppled one of those lies that the channel recently broadcasted unintentionally while he was discussing the political situation in Bahrain on AlWatan TV. The MP is reported to have announced that a private vehicle that ran over a policeman belonged to one of the members of the ruling family. He even went a step further and disclosed the registration number of the vehicle - 7721!

Now the main question that will cross anyone’s mind is: How on earth did the MP actually know that the vehicle belonged to a member of the ruling family? More importantly: how could he have obtained the registration number of that vehicle? In a direct response to that question officials of the channel averred that the entire report had been fabricated by someone that they have to identify while stating that nobody would have believed such a blatant lie anyway!

The channel then went a step further and said that the corpse that was crushed on the street was merely a doll. Now, who are we supposed to believe; the channel or the honorary MP who officially mentioned the registration number of the vehicle?! And in one of the local programs that was telecast recently I happened to ask my colleague, Fuad Al-Hashim, his views concerning the category of visitors that usually visit him at his office. Without fumbling for an appropriate answer he replied matter-of-factly, “They are usually gays, divorced women and office clerks!”

In another development, our very own health minister embarked on a wise decision while trying to fathom the shortcomings witnessed in his ministry by sending a medical team to Bahrain to help overcome those shortcomings. Unfortunately for him the Bahraini government refused to grant his team permission to enter the country!

While certainly appreciating the minister’s concern I would be honored if he would disclose the criteria or qualifications on which he based his team’s selection. Did he select them in accordance to their affiliations towards tribalism, sectarianism or according to specializations that the Kingdom of Bahrain set for that purpose?

The most important question however is: Who selected the one to be the head of the team, and on what basis?! Another question that comes to mind is: Were there any potential candidates on the list that refused to participate or were there any particular names that were dropped from the list? — Al-Watan

GCC Dental Awareness Week concludes

By Hussain Al-Qatari KUWAIT: Mubarak Al-K abeer Educational District held yesterday a ceremony in Holiday Inn Hotel, Salmiya announcing the launch of its dental awareness campaign as par t of the GCC Dental Awareness Week. The oneweek campaign focuses on raising awareness of the importance of dental health and hygiene among pupils at Kuwait’s schools. The campaign will include various awareness programs, competitions between pupils and schools, public seminars for pupils about dental health, and free dental check-ups for pupils organized with the help of school dentists.

Yesterday’s event was attended by the governor of Mubarak AlKabeer, Sheikh Ali Al-Abdullah AlSabah, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Education,

and GCC dignitaries. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Hend Al-Qaderi, the head of the Mubarak AlKabeer Committee for the GCC Dental Awareness Week, said that the program is the epitome of cooperation between GCC state. “I thank all those who helped make this program happen: the teachers, students and the staff of the ministr y and the GCC Dental Health Committee, and everyone who participated in this,” she said.

She explained that, in cooperation with the MoE in Kuwait, the GCC Dental Health Committee had held several forums and seminars at which it enlightened students and staff about the importance of dental health and hygiene issues, as well as introducing new ideas on these subjects.

“It is important that we discuss new ways to introduce dental

health to the students today, and the tremendous help and support we received from the GCC Dental Health Committee made that happen,” she said.

Dr Yousef Al-Duwairi, representing Kuwait ’s Ministr y of Health, also lauded the efforts of the event organizers. “The continuous hard work of teachers and dental health department staff is something that deser ves applause,” he said. “The care they have for ensuring that children are enlightened about dental health issues is something we would like to see extended to all other areas of life.”

Towards the end of the event, a group of schoolchildren per formed a song entitled ‘The Bright Smile,” which was followed by an awards ceremony which saw students and staff honored for their distinguished efforts.

Four hurt in car accidents

By Hanan Al-Saadoun

KUWAIT: Brig Zayed Abdullah Nasser, the deputy undersecretary of the National Guards, yesterday patronized a graduation ceremony for the National Guards officers who recently completed a second course on combating terrorism. In his speech during the ceremony at the Kazima military camp, Brig Nasser hailed the graduates’ performance in the course and the high level of professionalism shown by them, stressing the importance of continuous learning in performing their duties. The ceremony was also attended by the Commander of Military Affairs, Brig Walid Khalid Al-Nuwaif, as well as a number of senior National Guards officers.

KUWAIT: A 35-year-old Egyptian man suffered lacerations to the head, whilst a 30-year-old Kuwaiti man complained of pain in his right knee following a car accident on the Fifth Ring Road. Both were taken to Sabah Hospital.

In a separate incident, a 21-yearold Kuwaiti woman was taken to Amiri Hospital after suffering a dislocated shoulder in a crash on the Second Ring Road between Qadasiya and Nuzha. Meanwhile, a 33-year-old Egyptian complained of shoulder pain after his truck overturned following a collision on a street in Doha. He was taken to Sabah Hospital.

Gas blast A 35-year-old Nepalese woman was rushed to Adan Hospital after suffering burns to her head, hands and legs as a result of a gas canister explosion in a Sabahiya area house.

Scaffolding fall A 23-year-old Egyptian suffered a fractured left femur when he fell from scaffolding around a Sabahiya area building. He was taken to Adan Hospital.

22 face deportation Twenty-two Arabs and Asians arrested in a crackdown by Farwaniya police in Kabad face deportation once their cases have been processed.

Body found An investigation has been launched after the body of a 54year-old Syrian man was discovered behind a Mishref Co-op. The body was removed for autopsy to determine the cause of death.

Road rage stabbing Three juveniles were detained in Ferdous police station after stabbing a Kuwaiti man during a dispute over the right of way on a local road. An investigation has been launched.

Mosque burgled The Imam of a mosque in Jleeb AlShuyoukh area informed police that two air conditioning units were stolen from the mosque’s annex building.

KUWAIT: The Salmiya Sea Rescue Center, led by Colonel Khalid Al-Mikrad in cooperation with the Coast Guard, police and Air Force choppers found the third body of the four men that went missing at sea following the recent sand storm that struck the country. The body was identified as a Gulf citizen and was found two kilometers southeast of Failaka Island. The search continues for the fourth missing person.

— Photo by Hanan Al-Saadoun

CCTV cams in schools very soon: MoE official KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Ministry of Education (MoE) is expected to start installing surveillance cameras in the country’s state schools within the next few days, according to a senior official.

MoE Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Development Badr Al-Furaih made the announcement on Monday, indicating that ministry personnel have already created detailed floorplans of the schools showing where the CCTV cameras are to be placed, which will be issued to the company responsible for installing them.

Meanwhile, another senior education ministry official revealed that the ministry is currently studying the possibility of paying the school fees of bedoon (stateless) kindergarten pupils from its charity fund, which already provides funding for bedoon pupils at private elementary, middle and high school.

Fahad Al-Ghais, the Assistant Undersecretary of the MoE’s Private Education division, also told Al-Rai that bedoon pupils will be required to provide their birth certificates on registering at schools from next year, after the state began issuing official documents to its stateless residents.

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Years

local kuwait digest

Dreams on paper

Drunk driver, girlfriend in custody for street melee Revenge attack

By Dr Abdullatif Al-Suraikh KUWAIT: Police arrested a drunk driver and his girlfriend after they entered a public transportation bus and assaulted the driver in Salmiya, reported Al-Watan. The incident occurred when the drunk driver forced the bus driver to pull over after the bus cut him off. While the two were fighting, the drunk driver’s girlfriend got behind the wheel of the bus and drove it into several cars before stopping. Police responded to the scene and apprehended the couple while the bus driver was admitted to Mubarak Hospital.

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’ve grown to be almost certain that the Ministry of Public Works (MPW) doesn’t care about people’s complaints regarding their stalled maintenance operations around the country or doesn’t even bother to read what is published in the papers about the troubles that their improperly executed jobs cause.

How many times have we woken up in the morning only to find on our way to work or school that the roads are blocked due to maintenance?

This happened a week ago on King Fahad Road in fact.

I personally don’t understand how the ministry can claim they are up to fulfilling the mega projects included in the development plan while they are unable to finish simple road maintenance projects on time. For more than a year Saad AlAbdullah residents have suffered from the unfinished projects on two main roundabouts in the area as well as projects to connect the area’s streets with the main highways, which they have been studying for ages.

I don’t think that the MPW will be able to fulfill 25% of the development plan’s projects on time simply because they have proved to be a failure when it comes to finishing projects on time. If you don’t believe me, then take a drive down Jamal Abdul-Nasser Road towards the Sheraton Roundabout and you’ll see what I’m talking about.

The Jaber Hospital, the Sabah Al-Salem University, Al-Subbiya Bridge... will the ministry be able to finish all those major projects on time?

What about the Hareer City project? So far, all we’ve seen are pictures and plans for the much anticipated dream city but no actual action towards construction has been made.

We have a lot of dreams but the problem is that there is not enough effort being taken to turn those ambitions from paper into a reality. In the meantime all we hear from state officials are promises while obstacles continue to get in the way of the development plan. —Al-Rai

Westhill University honors Kuwait MEXICO CITY: The Kuwaiti Embassy was honored during events of International Day organized and held at Westhill University, after a vote by the university’s board selected Kuwait for the state to be under focus at the event. The Kuwaiti Ambassador Samih Jowhar Hayatt, his spouse, and embassy staff and their families attended the function, alongside accredited diplomats, academicians, science and education figures, university students, and members of the public.

The Kuwaiti pavilion saw set up of a tent in which traditional handicrafts, jewelry,

clothing, and other items related to Kuwait’s folklore and cultural identity were displayed.

The mementos sold portrayed Kuwaiti landmarks, and some bore pictures of past and current leaders.

The overall organization of the pavilion aimed at shedding light on the progress the state has made since its creation, since its liberation, and since its liberation from the Iraqi 1990 occupation. The guests were treated to a buffet which included dishes and desserts from the traditional Kuwaiti cuisine. — KUNA

Student injured A 12-year-old Kuwaiti boy underwent an urgent surgery to repair severe damage to his left eye after being attacked by a classmate in school in Rawda, reported Al-Watan. The incident occurred while the child was confronting a bully, who responded by stabbing him with a pen in the eye. The boy was brought to the hospital by his mother from school after the victim informed his parents about the incident. The victim’s father filed a complaint with authorities against the school’s administration and accused them of neglect for failing to provide his child with immediate medical attention.

Citizen’s death A citizen that was found dead inside an empty pool in a Bnaid Al-Gar apartment building was discovered to have been trying to free himself from being locked inside a room, reported Al-Watan. According to official security sources the victim was one of four citizens that were drinking in the apartment. It was reported that his three companions locked him in the room after they grew tired of his behavior. However, the man tried to escape out the window but lost his balance while attempting to make his way to a

First phase of development plan focuses on infrastructure KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Minister of State for Development Affairs and Minister of State for Housing Affairs Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad AlAhmad Al-Sabah said yesterday that the first phase of the development plan has focused on infrastructure projects.

In a seminar organized by the Economic Club at the Kuwait University’s Business Administration College, Sheikh Ahmad Fahad stressed that Kuwait is protected against political unrest by its deep-rooted democratic system, coherent social fabric and constitution.

On the other hand, the minister pointed out Kuwait is looking forward to having open economy system not dependent on oil production.

“There is a desire, from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, to turn Kuwait into a regional commercial financial hub,” Sheikh Ahmad said when asked if Kuwait seeks to be a regional Islamic finance hub.

“But turning to Islamic finance requires a broad democratic debate among all Kuwaitis,” he noted.

The minister criticized the government bodies’ bureaucracy that paralyzes work and development.

Such problem and others would be the focus of the government efforts to develop the economy in the coming period, Sheikh Ahmad revealed.—- KUNA

Mechanic attacked A car mechanic was hospitalized with serious injuries after being assaulted by three men in his shop in Sulabiya, reported AlWatan. Police and paramedics responded to the incident and found the man bleeding from several stab wounds. Eyewitnesses informed authorities that the face-veiled attackers called the victim a cheater while they stabbed him with sharp tools. Police suspect that the man may have been assaulted as a result of scamming some customers.

nearby balcony. Police arrested one of the three responsible for locking the man in the room and discovered that the other two fled the scene before police arrived. An investigation was launched in search of the other two suspects.

Teen driver A 14-year-old child was taken into custody after running over four children while driving a car illegally in Oyoun, reported Al-Rai. Police and paramedics responded to the scene after calls were made reporting an incident in which four children were hit by a car after it crashed into the house garden they were playing in. Police were able to locate the vehicle responsible for the accident two hours later in the nearby Waha area. An investigation revealed that the driver was only 14-years-old.

The injured children were admitted to Jahra Hospital’s intensive care unit.

Body found A non-Kuwaiti resident was found dead inside his Hawally apartment, reported Al-Rai. Police responded to the location after the building’s janitor reported smelling a foul odor coming from the victim’s apartment. A warrant was issued to raid the apartment after the janitor told police that its tenant hadn’t been seen for a few days. An autopsy was ordered for the body to determine the exact time and cause of the man’s death.

Torture claims An investigation was launched into the claim of a takeaway restaurant waiter who claimed he was tortured by two officers in the Sharq police station, reported Al-Rai. Official security sources said that the waiter reported that he was detained by police officers following a misunderstanding over a delivery order. According to the restaurant’s manager the waiter was physically abused by an officer while being arrested.

Forgery case Airport security at the Kuwait International Airport arrested a European national for forging his name in an attempt to regain access to the country, reported Al-Rai. The man was previously deported from the country after it was discovered that he was infected with a contagious disease. The suspect was caught with the use of the recently installed fingerprint security system.

MP more determined after TV station raid KUWAIT: The Ministry of Information is taking legal action against Al-Anwar TV, a local private satellite TV station owned by MP Saleh Ashour, which is based in a house in Mishref, accusing the station of broadcasting in violation of Kuwait’s audiovisual laws. Officials from the information ministry’s legal department on Monday confiscated three TV monitors and eight video recorders from the TV station’s studio, after it was discovered that the station had not acquired a broadcasting license, which is essential before it can begin broadcasting.

Amongst other things, the channel is accused of broadcasting offensive material against Bahrain and its leadership, as well as programs which could harm Kuwait relations with other Gulf countries. Ashour blasted the ministry’s actions, suggesting that there was a link between its decision to prosecute his TV channel and his decision on the same day to file an interpolation motion against Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Mohammad Al-Sabah, asking, “ Is [the ministry’s action] a form of political pressure to make me reconsider my grilling plans?” The MP, a Shiite not affiliated with any parliamentary blocs at present, condemned the ministry’s actions “in light of the current heated political situations and numerous planned interpolations.”

Ashour also warned that the action taken against his TV station “will have negative effects at the social and sectarian levels in our society,” whilst insisting that the ministry’s action had made him even “more determined to file the grilling” against the foreign minister.

US educational fair woos Kuwait students

By Ben Garcia KUWAIT: A three-hour education fair organized by US Educational Group (USEG) in conjunction with AMIDEAST and the US Embassy in Kuwait was held yesterday at the Marina Hotel in Salmiya.

Accompanied by their parents, students from different secondary schools in Kuwait turned up at the venue to ask questions about educational opportunities in the United States. About 19 universities from the US participated in the exhibition inaugurated by US Embassy Consul Keisha Toms.

Participating universities/colleges prepared answers to various enquiries posted by the students.

They provided information about their programs, admission standards and financial opportunities available at their institutions.

Joseph Humadi, President US Education Group thanked parents and students for readily accepting their invitation although it was

announced at a short notice. “We have a good number of students from different schools in Kuwait right here who are expressing their desire to study in the US. These students are the very reasons why we organized this fair; to give the proper venue and right platform for those who want to pursue their education in the US. They can ask as many questions as they like and we are here till 9 pm to help them,” he said.

The venue became a temporary virtual extension of the embassy consular section where Toms readily answered queries about student visas and related matters. Universities/colleges represented in the fair include EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University, Foothill-Deanza Colleges, George Mason University, Hult International Business School, Iowa State University, Marquette university, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Old Dominion University,

Rochester Institute of Technology, San Diego State University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Score Plus-Princeton Review, University of Buffalo, University of Colorado-Boulder, University of Kentucky, University of Mississippi , University of North Carolina-Wilmington.

Humadi noted that USEG are conducting the education fair twice annually and every year, the group noticed unfading enthusiasm of many students regarding pursuing higher studies in America.

“Well, the institutions represented here are all highly respected universities and campuses back in America,” he added. AMIDEAST is a private non-profit organization that strengthens mutual understanding and cooperation between Americans and the people of the Middle East and North Africa. For more details on studying in America, please visit their website: www.amideast.org

—Photos by Ben Garcia

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local Top jewelers exhibiting at upcoming ‘Konouz’ expo KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti Jewelry Merchants Association has received positive responses from several local and international jewelry companies expressing their wish to participate in the annual ‘Konouz’ jewelry and watches exhibition, which is scheduled to take place from April 24-28 at Al-Raiya Hall in the Courtyard Marriott Hotel in Kuwait City. A number of top jewelry makers and marketers have already confirmed their participation in the upcoming event, according to the exhibition organizing committee.

In a press release issued yesterday, Adnan AlArbash, the owner of AlArbash Jewelry Company, said that the exhibition offers customers an opportunity to see a wide variety of items displayed by the elite jewelry merchants under one roof. He Mashael Al-Dakheel further indicated that his company is to participate in the Konouz expo, now in its second year, after the success of its participation in the exhibition, adding that the company will be displaying a wide collection of especially-selected diamond and pearl jewelry at the event.

Another participant, Mashael Al-Dakheel, the owner of AlShaar Jewelry Company, also voiced enthusiasm about taking part in the upcoming exhibition, echoing Al-Arbash’s positive reflections on the previous event and voicing hope that her firm would see similarly excellent results from this year’s expo.

Al-Dakheel, whose company has branches in Riyadh, Beirut, Qatar, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and is soon set to open one in London, said that Al-Shaar would be displaying “a very special collection” of jewelry at the Konouz exhibition.

Kuwait-Iraq panel working on outstanding issues: FMs

Official complaint against Bahrain TV

Sincere desire to build firm relationship

By Dr Saud Al-Samaka KUWAIT: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr Mohammad Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah and visiting Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari agreed yesterday that the first meeting of the joint ministerial committee made headway in solving outstanding issues.

Addressing a joint press conference here at the end of the two-day meeting, Sheikh Dr Mohammad said His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was keen on receiving the Iraqi side of the committee out of sincere desire to build firm relationship with sisterly Iraq based on mutual confidence and neighborliness.

“We bet that the new democratic and open Iraq will be a helping factor for regional stability and security; we are sure of winning the bet,” Sheikh Dr. Mohammad said.

As for the sticking points between the two neighbors, he said: “The agenda of the meeting included 12 items covering almost all bilateral issues.”

“These issues include clear-cut international obligations that do not need explanation and to which Iraq is definitely committed; they include the maintenance of the border marks and compensations for Kuwait,” he noted.

“There are other bilateral issues that need negotiation and mutual trust to reach a mutually-acceptable settlement; these include the issue of debts owed by Iraq to Kuwait,” he added.

On his part, Zebari agreed that

the debt issue is a bilateral one that is not included in the UN Security Council resolutions related to Iraq.

“The just-ended meeting highlighted the need for developing mechanisms to tackle such issues and tacked almost all controversial issues.

“I think the coming committee meeting, due in Baghdad, will be more important for solving the essential issues although the justended meeting is one of the most important meetings between the two sides since the ouster of the former Iraqi regime (of Saddam Hussein),” he said. “ There are a range of crucial decisions that need to be made in order to pave the way ridding Iraq of the sanctions adopted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter during the defunct regime,” Zebari affirmed.

Kuwaiti ambassador meets Riyadh mayor RIYADH: Kuwait’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sheikh Hamad Jaber Al-Ali AlSabah met yesterday with Mayor of Riyadh province Prince Dr. Abdulaziz bin Mohammad bin Ayyaf Al-Muqrin.

Sheikh Hamad Al-Jaber said after the meeting, that he thanked the Saudi Prince on the renovation and restoration of Kuwait square, one of the important and well-known squares in Riyadh.

He added that the restoration of this square coincided with Kuwait’s national celebrations of the 50th anniversary of Independence Day, the 20th of Liberation Day and the 5th anniversary of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait’s assumption of power.

The Kuwaiti ambassador noted that Prince Abdualaziz’s generous gesture of renovating the square shows his

kuwait digest

appreciation of the state of Kuwait.

He also lauded the directives of Prince of Riyadh, Prince Salman bin Abdulaziz in improving this Saudi city and his continuous follow-up of projects and major constructions in

it, including the Kuwait Square in Malaz neighborhood in the Saudi Capital of Riyadh. The square resembles the three Kuwaiti Towers surrounded by aesthetic greenery and water fountains. —KUNA

“We have discussed Iraq’s commitments to the UNSC resolution 833 relating to the sovereignty and safety of Kuwait and the freedom of navigation at the maritime corridors as well as the compensations for farmers,” he added.

The Iraqi minister noted that his delegation felt a sincere desire on the part of Kuwait to help his country get rid of the UN-imposed sanctions.

He reaffirmed that the new democratic Iraq is totally different from the Saddamite one and seeks neighborly ties with sisterly Kuwait.

The Iraqi top diplomat expressed gratitude for HH the Amir, HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser AlMohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah and Sheikh Dr. Mohammad for the warm reception and hospitality they offered to him and his entourage. —KUNA

hile following up on news about recent events in the Arab World on TV the other day I stopped on a talk show that was being aired on Bahrain TV (BTV). I felt sorry to see programs allowing sectarian and hateful statements be broadcast on the state’s official station.

I personally felt embarrassed while listening to what the show’s host was saying while speaking to his guest, a female member of the Consultative Council of Bahrain, in addition to the phone calls that came from Kuwait and were fueled with sectarianism.

It’s sad that a decade into the 21st century a struggle is still being carried out against people based solely on their beliefs.

The saddest part of the program was when the show’s host gladly allowed a caller from Kuwait to continue making offensive and threatening remarks against Kuwait’s Prime Minister His Highness Sheikh Nasser AlMohammad Al-Sabah, even though we know that each TV program would interrupt a phone caller if the caller made unpleasant remarks about the show’s director.

Through this column I am making an official complaint to Sheikh Fawaz Bin Mohammad Al-Khalifa; head of the information affairs authority in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

I hope that he takes the necessary actions against the show’s host, who tolerated the abuse of the prime minister of a sister nation that has much appreciation for Bahrain. Especially considering that the show in question was aired on the kingdom’s official state channel. —Al-Qabas

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No polluted Japanese food imports in Kuwaiti market KUWAIT: There are no radiation-polluted Japanese food imports in the Kuwaiti market, and data also shows that the imports from Japan entered Kuwait before the nuclear crisis, said Board Chairman of the union of Kuwaiti foodstuff distributors and importers Abdullah Al-Beijan yesterday.

The official said the union also has data showing there is only a small volume of such imports, meant largely for the Japanese community and hotels and restaurants. “The food safety committee (of Kuwait Municipality) did not notify the union of any polluted food item imported from Japan, and did not call for any precautionary measures leading to a request to halt imports.”

At all times, he stressed, the union treats issues of food safety and consumer health as a top priority.

The union agrees with all measures taken so far, which include guidelines and precautions to detect radiation pollution, and also supports the Customs’ recent

decision to regulate import of food items and drinking water from Japan, Al-Beijan noted.

The official pointed out that the union maintains constant coordination and contact with all health, customs, and trade authorities.

The Municipality’s efforts are also praiseworthy, he remarked, as it takes initiative to coordinate, collect samples, and carry out tests to determine safety of Japanese imports.

There are clear regulations and specifications on radiation levels stated by the World Health Organization, and all states are notified of these and of alerts when needed.

On possibility of hike in food prices after the Japanese nuclear crisis, Al-Beijan said it is unlikely there would be any marked effect on the local market, “in view of the very limited volume of imports involved.” Japan, he explained further, is not a major exporter of agricultural products to Kuwait. —KUNA

Mothers pose for a picture after being awarded.

Children posing for a photo.

Children in a ‘victory’ pose.

A family celebrating during the event.

Agailah Beach hosts Family Day celebration KUWAIT: Agailah Beach played host to a Family Day celebration held recently by the Touristic Enterprises Company’s beach and sea club department. A program made specifically for the event featured various activities and competitions including an ideal mother award ceremony. Adel Shaaban, the beach’s supervisor, distributed the various prizes.

Kuwaiti academic stresses need for GCC law unification

Cooperation discussions in Manila KUALA LUMPUR: Kuwait’s ambassador to the Philippines Waleed Ahmad Al-Kanderi discussed yesterday means of bilateral cooperation with the Philippines’ Assistant Foreign Minister.

Al-Kanderi said the good bilateral relations between Kuwait and the Philippines were discussed in the meeting.

They also tackled means of enhancing and promoting these ties, especially in the realms of commerce, economy and culture.

The Kuwaiti ambassador also added that the meeting shed light on the importance of exploring opportunities of cooperation between the two countries’ economical and commercial institutes as well as their businessmen.

His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser AlMohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah’s visit to the Philippines in 2008 witnessed the signing of many bilateral agreements, among them the collaborations in the oil, gas, tourism and health sectors, Al-Kanderi noted.

Kuwait and the Philippines have diplomatic ties since 1979, when the two countries signed many agreements in all field of cooperation.

Kuwait is considered the 6th biggest partner for the Philippines and their commercial exchange amounted to $50 million in 2006. —KUNA

International WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

58 dead in Iraq siege

Tiny Qatar flexes muscles in no-fly Libya campaign Page 8

BAGHDAD: An Iraqi soldier stands guard at the scene of a “Katyusha” rocket attack that wounded two Iraqis in front of the Ambassador Hotel in Abu Nawas Street in Baghdad yesterday where a delegation of Turkish business people stayed but wasn’t hurt, as Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan is on a two-day visit in the country. — AFP

TIKRIT, Iraq: Security forces stormed the provincial council building in former dictator Saddam Hussein’s hometown of Tikrit yesterday after an hours-long shootout with gunmen that left 58 dead and 97 wounded, a police official said. “The latest toll is 58 dead and 97 wounded, and there are many with seriuos injuries, Six of the dead were the attackers,” said the official, stationed at Tikrit’s main hospital.” “The security forces have now taken over the provincial council building,” a police official said, adding that three council members were among the dead.

The gunmen, wearing military uniforms and suicide vests, had swarmed into the provincial council building in the city of Tikrit, about 160 km north of Baghdad, immediately after a suicide bomber detonated his payload and cleared the way, according to security officials. A car bomb exploded shortly afterwards as police reinforcements were arriving, they said. “A police colonel, Imad Nofan, and his deputy were killed in the car bombing,” the police official said. The same explosion also killed journalist Sabah Al-Bazi, who had reported for several local and international news organizations including Al-Arabiya satellite TV, CNN and Reuters, the police official and other sources said.

The attackers set fire to the bodies of three slain councilmen at the Salahuddin provincial council headquarters in Tikrit, said the province’s media adviser, Mohammed Al-Asi. Among the lawmakers was an official who was known for his tough stance against Al-Qaeda in Iraq, which some officials blamed for the attack. Another was an elderly politician who headed the council’s committee on religion. “He was just an old man - he did nothing,” Al-Asi said in an interview, trying to keep from weeping. “Why did they shoot him and set fire to his poor body?”

Salahuddin Governor Ahmed Abdullah called the attack “a tragic incident carried out by ruthless terrorists”.

Wearing military uniforms - including one with a high rank - the gunmen identified themselves as Iraqi soldiers at a security checkpoint outside the government compound but opened fire on guards when they were told they needed to be searched. The provincial council meets at the headquarters every

yesterday, but a spokesman for the governor, Ali Abdul Rihman, said local lawmakers ended their discussion early because there was little on their agenda. As a result, he said, most of the lawmakers had already left the headquar ters when the assault began. “The gunmen were armed with grenades, and began their raid by firing at random at a reception room,” Rihman said. “Then they opened fire inside.”

Hospital sources said they had received the bodies of six attackers. They said two showed they had died after detonating their suicide vests, and four were killed by shots fired by security forces. For several hours, it was unclear whether hostages were being held or how many. Police said employees were still inside the building while witnesses said that at least some had managed to flee from another exit. It later emerged that some people were trapped inside, but details of how many, or what happened during the drama, remained sketchy.

“Police cannot approach because the gunmen are shooting from inside,” a police official said during the stand-off. “The attackers are all wearing suicide belts.”

He added that at least one had detonated his payload inside. He said all were dressed in military uniforms.

The attack began before 1 pm (1000 GMT ) and lasted for more than four hours. Shortly afterwards, a curfew was imposed in Tikrit, capital of the Sunnimajority Salaheddin province, which has long been a bastion of a Sunni insurgency and remains the scene of bloody attacks. In mid-January, a suicide bomber blew himself up and killed 50 people in a crowd waiting outside a police recruitment centre in Tikrit. That blast, which also wounded up to 150, was the first major strike in Iraq since the formation of a new government on Dec 21.

There was no immediate claim of yesterday ’s attack, but officials said it bore the hallmark of Iraq’s Al-Qaeda affiliate. Iraq’s security forces are now solely responsible for the country’s security, with the United States having declared a formal end to combat operations in the country at the end of August.

Violence across Iraq has declined substantially since its peak in 2006 and 2007, but attacks remain common.— Agencies

Israel okays law nixing citizenship for treason JERUSALEM: Israel’s Knesset, or parliament, has passed a law which would enable the court system to revoke the citizenship of anyone convicted of spying, treason or helping the enemy during times of war. The bill, which was passed by 37 to 11 at a late-night session on Monday, was initiated by two Knesset members (MKs) from the ultranationalist Yisrael Beitenu party of Israeli Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman. The new legislation empowers the Israeli court system to revoke the citizenship of anyone convicted on charges of “terrorism,” espionage, helping the enemy during time of war or any other act which harms

national sovereignty.

“Without loyalty, there can be no citizenship,” Lieberman said just minutes after the bill was passed, in comments reported by the Jerusalem Post. “Any person who harms the country cannot enjoy the benefits of citizenship and its fruit.” The law is part of Lieberman’s “no loyalty, no citizenship” campaign which he pushed during the run up to the 2009 elections, which is widely understood to target Israel’s Arab minority.

“MKs have made it clear that even though the wording of the bill is broad, it is very clearly aimed at Israel’s Arab citizens, and sends them a message that their citizenship is not guaranteed,”

said Ronit Sela, spokeswoman for the Association for Civil Rights in Israel.

In passing the bill, the parliament was sending “a very severe” message to the Arab community which makes up around a fifth of Israel’s citizens, Sela told AFP. “The vote in support of this bill shows that the Knesset has lost sight of a very important principle: that citizenship is not a prize that is given or taken away, it is a person’s protected right,” she said. Israel’s 1.3 million Arab citizens, who make up 20 percent of the population, are Palestinians who remained in the country following the creation of the Jewish state in 1948, along with their descendants. — AFP

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US fears, Qaeda combine as Saleh stays in power Saleh challenges opponents to leave the country SANAA: Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, given a new lease of life by a solidarity rally as well as US fears over Al-Qaeda and 150 deaths in a killer blast, has taken the initiative against calls for his ouster. Scoffing at pressure to quit at a time of growing insecurity, as highlighted by the blast at an ammunitions plant in southern Yemen, Saleh challenged his opponents to leave the country instead, in remarks published yesterday.

“I tell those who appear in the media asking others to leave, that it is up to them to go,” said the embattled president, quoted on state news agency Saba, branding his rivals as nothing more than “paid agents and collaborators”.

The veteran leader, in power for 32

While a massive crowd protested against Saleh’s regime in Sanaa last Friday, the 69-year-old president’s loyalists staged a huge counter-demonstration of his supporters. Saleh on Monday accused “Al-Qaeda, the Huthis (Shiite Zaidi rebels of north Yemen), sepa-

His remarks came after Washington warned on Sunday that the fall of Saleh would pose a “real problem” for the United States. “I think it is a real concern because the most active and at this point perhaps the most aggressive branch of Al-Qaeda, Al-

SANAA: An anti-government protestor, center, shouts during a demonstration demanding the resignation of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, in Sanaa, Yemen yesterday. —AP years, accused the parliamentary opposition of wanting to “seize power through the blood of youths”. Protests against Saleh intensified after a March 18 bloodbath when regime loyalists gunned down 52 people outside Sanaa University, sparking widespread international condemnation and a string of anti-regime defections.

ratists” in the south and the parliamentary opposition of ganging up against his regime at the expense of Yemeni stability and security. A declared ally in the US battle against Islamist militants, Saleh is grappling with anti-regime protests which have divided the army, a secessionist movement in southern Yemen, and a resurgent Al-Qaeda.

Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, operates out of Yemen,” said US Defence Secretary Robert Gates.

A top opposition figure in parliament, Mohammed Sabri, said: “The US defence minister’s exaggeration of Al-Qaeda has encouraged the regime.” But the US ambassador to Yemen, Gerald Feierstein, has held talks with two leading figures who have defect-

ed, sources close to both men told AFP yesterday. Feierstein met on Monday with General Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, commander of the military’s northwest region which covers Sanaa, and Sadiq al-Ahmar, head of the Hashid tribal federation, the largest in deeply tribal Yemen.

Meanwhile, negotiations with the president on a transition have been suspended since last Thursday, according to Sabri.

“Saleh is shirking his commitments, and negotiating with him is useless,” he said.

Saleh himself called for “those wanting power to head to the polls”. Last week, he reportedly offered to step down by the end of 2011, a proposal snubbed by the opposition. But his ruling party said Friday he should serve out his current term until the next scheduled presidential election in 2013.

With the political showdown in limbo and tensions running high across the impoverished country, the death toll of a massive blast and fire at an ammunition plant looted by Al-Qaeda has shot up to 150, local officials said. In Sanaa late on Monday, a son-in-law of the president, Yahya Mohammed Ismael, joined the protesters camped at the square near the university since February 21.

And a dozen army officers joined the protesters at the square at the same time, according to the AFP correspondent. Saleh has sacked and replaced the army commander for Yemen’s eastern region, General Mohammed Ali Mohsen, who has also joined the anti-regime camp, according to the defence ministry’s 26sep.net website. —AFP

Jordan Govt bans supporters from Amman demos AMMAN: Jordan will ban government supporters from demonstrating in the capital, a top official said yesterday as King Abdullah II vowed to fight attempts to “sabotage” the country’s reform drive. The measures will be implemented after last week’s clashes in which one protester died and 160 were injured, as demonstrators calling for reforms and government supporters plan to mobilise again on Friday.

“From now on protests by loyalists can only be held outside Amman to avoid clashes with the opposition,” the official told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity. “The opposition can demonstrate in certain areas in Amman,” he said without elaborating. On Friday, a 55year-old protester died and 160 people were injured when police broke up a pro-reform protest camp following a stone attack by loyalists against young demonstrators near the interior ministry.

The two sides have vowed to hold fresh protests at a roundabout near the ministry again on Friday, with government loyalists saying one million supporters will join the rally, sparking fears of renewed violence. Prime Minister Maaruf Bakhit said on Monday the government will “allocate certain places for demonstrations, to protect protesters and avoid obstructing the lives of others”.

“Carrying firearms, bats, stones and sharp tools as well as attempts to prevent peaceful demonstrations are condemned. They harm Jordan’s image and reform drive,” Bakhit told the state-run Petra news agency. The king met yesterday with members of a committee formed by the government to enhance reforms. “He stressed that Jordan will not allow anybody to ‘sabotage’ the reform drive,” Mustafa Rawashdah told AFP. “He told us that only two percent of Jordanians do not want reforms.

He said that ‘those who do not want reforms are not loyalist and loyalists must be reformist’.” Fifteen members of the commission for dialogue quit after Friday’s clashes. “The king called for opening a new chapter and working as one team,” Rawashdah said. The powerful Islamist opposition has rejected the commission and called for Bakhit’s ouster after the violence. —AFP

CAIRO: Dozens of ultraconservative Muslims from the Salafi movement staged a protest in Cairo, Egypt yesterday, accusing the local Christian church of abducting a Muslim convert. —AP

Libyan woman claiming rape will face charges TRIPOLI: A Libyan woman who burst into a Tripoli hotel to tell foreign journalists how she was gang raped by Moammar Gadhafi’s troops will face criminal charges, a government spokesman said yesterday. The spokesman, Moussa Ibrahim, said the men accused by Iman Al-Obeidi are now suing her. A son of a high ranking Libyan official was among those she claimed had raped her, he said.

“The boys she accused are bringing a case against her because it’s a very grave offense to accuse someone of a sexual crime,” Ibrahim told reporters in the Libyan capital. Al-Obeidi made headlines when she rushed distraught into Tripoli’s Rixos Hotel on Saturday, seeking to speak to foreign media. She claimed she was detained by a number of Gadhafi troops at a Tripoli checkpoint on Wednesday. She said they were drinking whiskey and handcuffed her, and that 15 men later raped her.

Al-Obeidi’s claim could not be independently verified. The Associated Press only identifies rape victims who volunteer their names.

As she started to tell her story, Al-Obeidi was tackled by waitresses and government minders and dragged away from the hotel, and has since been missing. Her parents claim she is held hostage at Gadhafi’s compound in the Libyan capital. Libyan authorities have alter-

nately labeled Al-Obeidi a drunk, a prostitute and a thief.

Ibrahim yesterday refused to discuss AlObeidi’s whereabouts. But in an interview with the AP on Sunday, he had said she was with her sister in the Libyan capital. He also said at the time that police have a file on AlObeidi for prostitution and pett y thef t.

However, Al-Obeidi’s parents told satellite AlJazeera Television on Monday that their daughter is a lawyer now pursuing a postgraduate degree.

The mother said she received a phone call Monday from an unidentified caller, purportedly from the Gadhafi camp, telling her AlObeidi is held at the Tripoli compound and asking her to instruct her daughter to change the rape claim in return for freedom and other benefits such as cash or a new house.

T h e p a re n t s l a u d e d t h e i r d a u g h t e r ’s courage in stepping for ward about her ordeal. It was unclear where they spoke from and Al-Jazeera did not provide their n a m e s. T h e Lo n d o n - b a s e d A m n e s t y International said Monday that Al-Obeidi’s account was “stomach-churning” and called on Libyan authorities to launch “an independent and impartial investigation” into the case, reveal Al-Obeidi’s whereabouts and set her free.— AP

LONDON: Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron talks with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Bin Jissim Bin Jabr Al Thani at the London Conference on Libya, at Lancaster House in London yesterday. —AP

Tiny Qatar flexes muscles in no-fly Libya campaign SOUDA BAY AIR BASE, Greece: I n Libya’s skies, Qatar is punching above its weight. From an air base in Crete, the tiny Persian Gulf nation has started its biggest, farthest combat deployment , including a third of its fighter-jet fleet , and given the first Arab face to the Western-led coalition hoping to protect Libyan civilians from Muammar Gaddafi’s firepower. For the oil- and gas-rich countr y that brought the world Al-Jazeera TV and recently won the right to host the 2022 World Cup, the effort marks Qatar’s latest push onto the world stage.

Punishing air strikes by dozens of coalition aircraft have altered Libya’s combat landscape in recent days, allowing the rebel forces to push Monday toward Gaddafi’s hometown, Sirte, and along the way to the capital, Tripoli. “We felt it was important for an Arab country to join and because other Arab countries were not involved militarily, we felt we should,” Gen. Mubarak al-Khayanin, the Qatari Air Force chief of staff, said in an interview Sunday at Souda.

“We are physically small country, but with leadership comes responsibility,” he said. “Certain countries like Saudi Arabia and Egypt haven’t taken leadership for the last three years. So we wanted to step up and express ourselves, and see if others will follow.” The 22-member Arab League was a driving force behind the U.N. Security Council decision to impose a no-fly zone over Libya. But among members, only Qatar and the United Arab Emirates , which has offered 12 planes to the effort , have committed muscle to enforce the motion. While Libya and many other Arab countries are facing upheaval in the streets as people demand greater democracy and freedom, Qatar’s joining the no-fly campaign amounts to a visible show of self-confidence.

Since Friday, the start of their participation, Qatari Mirage jets have flown wing-to-wing with the French in fourplane patrols over northeastern Libya, an area controlled by the rebels.

Military commanders said the zone was selected for its relative proximity to Crete, and their jets have tallied no strikes or air combat , so far. The French government, a key proponent of action against Gaddafi’s forces, is eager to highlight Qatar’s participation to stress that it’s not a Western-only intervention. Associated Press journalists accompanied the heads of the Qatari and French air forces and other military officials aboard a French stateowned business jet Sunday for a visit to the joint operation on the Mediterranean base at Souda.

“This is really an exceptional event, a turning point in histor y,” said Gen. Jean-Paul Palomeros, the French Air Force chief of staff. “It really shows the courage (of Qatar) to enlist at our sides.” The decisions by Qatar and UAE to join the coalition in Libya reflect their strong traditional ties to the United States and their desires to play a more active role internationally.

“The Gulf countries are beginning ... to be more assertive and pursue their own policies,” said Theodore Karasik of the Institute for Near East and Gulf Military Analysis in Dubai. “They feel they can go out more on their own, diversify their interests, but still keep their Western allies.” The Gulf states rely on a strong regional US military presence as a buffer against Iran, which is seen as a threat by the Gulf’s kings and sheiks. Western nations are also key trading partners.

Shadi Hamid, director of research at The Brookings Doha Center in Qatar, said joining the Libya coalition is a way for Qatar and the UAE to bank some goodwill with the West. “ The US, Britain, and France are going to remember who supported them in this operation, and who helped them build a broader and more robust coalition” , especially those who contributed military might, Hamid said. It doesn’t hurt that the t wo Arab nations are the region’s richest per capita.

“So the question is: ‘Why not spend

tens of millions of dollars supporting the operations, and we get something out of it too?’ I t ’s a more obvious choice for countries that can afford it,” Hamid said.

The UAE agreed to join in the Libyan effort last week , reversing an earlier decision to limit its role to humanitarian aid , and plans now to commit six F16 and six Mirage aircraft to enforcing the no-fly zone. Earlier this month, Emirati forces took part in a different kind of operation: They joined Saudi troops for a Gulf-led mission to bolster forces loyal to Bahrain’s rulers amid the anti-government protests there. Qatar, which juts into the Persian Gulf like a thumb off the east coast of the Arabian Peninsula, has only 1.7 million people , mostly temporar y foreign workers. Yet it recently emerged the unlikely winner to host the 2022 World Cup. Qatar’s rulers bankrolled the launch of Al Jazeera, arguably the Arab world’s most influential news channel and a lightning rod for criticism from the region’s autocrats. The network covered the recent Arab uprisings earlier and more extensively than Western news channels, and is renewing its push to get the channel’s English-language division onto US cable systems.

Qatar has acted as peace broker in Lebanon and Sudan, and has sent humanitarian aid to both Chile and Haiti after earthquakes there in 2010.

Qatar ’s capital, Doha, hosts several branches of American universities and the Middle East headquarters for the US Army’s Central Command. Karasik said the Libya inte r vention is ye t another example of Qatar’s desire to become “a foreign policy powerhouse.”

“It goes along with their attitude that they are the go-to country for resolving political and strategic questions throughout the ... region,” he said. But Gen. al-Khayanin told the AP that his country’s goal was simpler: “To make sure the Libyan people are not being killed. You cannot go halfway , and we are ready to go as long as it takes.” “I have nothing against Gaddafi ... as long as he protects his own people,” said Al-Khayanin. “Removing Gaddafi is an internal issue, but at least the fighting has to stop.” Qatar has about 200 pilots and crew at Souda. They have been paired with the French par tly because the t wo countries have worked and trained together for years under bilateral defense accords.

U nd e r t he e s cor t of Lt G e n.

Antonios Tsantirakis, the commander of Greece’s tactical air force, the French and Qatari commanders toured the quickly assembled operations center in Souda.

One Qatari officer asked for better intelligence information about events on the ground, and his superiors pledged to provide more. The rank-andfile Qatari and French airmen didn’t want their full names used, citing security reasons.

Qatari and Greek fighter planes are scheduled to fly extra training missions over the Mediterranean this week to help Qatari pilots understand the area better. Shortly after returning from a flight Sunday over Libya, a grizzled Qatari colonel with salt-and-pepper hair was matter-of-fact about Qatar’s role.

“For us, this is a good first experience to come here, so far from our home base,” he said, walking on the Souda tarmac. “For us, it’s not a matter of Libya or Gaddafi, this is to enforce the U.N. no-fly zone. I’m not going to go into the political side of it.” One young Qatari officer said in English that his country was involved in the Libya campaign, “to save the world.” One officer who did give his name, 2nd Lt. Naveed Ashraf, a Pakistani technical adviser for the Qatari Air Force, insisted that Islam, the main religion in Qatar and Libya, shouldn’t be part of the equation , but Gaddafi’s onslaught against his own people should be. “This is not about Muslims possibly killing other Muslims,” Ashraf said. “No religion tolerates this brutality ... Nobody has the right to do what he is doing.”—AP

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Latin America: the new farming frontier?

CALGARY: Latin America can help solve the global food crisis by expanding farm production, the World Bank said this weekend, and Colombia, for one, said it was on board with plans for an “agricultural revolution”. Rising food prices have led to riots and social unrest across the world in recent months and while the World Bank said the price hikes have not necessarily plunged more Latin Americans into poverty, it is worried that they could.

Unlike some other developing regions such as Africa, one in seven Latin Americans lives in a city and therefore is subject to food retailers’ price increases. But Pamela Cox, vice president for the Latin American and Caribbean region at the World Bank, said rising food costs could also benefit the region and dismissed arguments that the world will reach a point at which it cannot feed itself. “For Latin America this is also good news, and I imagine

in Canada as well,” she said. “There’s a lot of discussion on whether we’ve reached the frontier on water and land. That is not the case in Latin America. Latin America has abundant possibilities for producing agriculture,” she told Reuters on the sidelines of weekend meetings of Western Hemisphere economic leaders in Calgary, Alberta.

Boosting the global food supply could help soften prices, but could also help producer countries lift economic growth. Colombian Finance Minister Juan Carlos Echeverry buys into that idea. In a speech on Saturday, he said his country’s farm industry lags regional peers because for years arable land was used for cocaine or controlled by the FARC rebel group.

Now, he plans to use money from oil royalties to develop the sector in the hopes of sparking an agriculture bonanza alongside a mining and energy

boom. “Compared to other Latin American countries like Brazil, Chile, Peru and now Mexico, we have to have an agricultural revolution,” Echeverry said. As a region, Latin America is a net food exporter and accounts for 10 percent of global agricultural exports. It produces over half the world’s soybean exports, a third of the corn and 44 percent of the beef. It holds nearly a third of the world’s unused land suitable for farming, the World Bank says.

Economists said current high prices are an incentive for sophisticated agribusiness in places such as Argentina and Brazil to expand into new lands and diversify products. Even net food importers in Central America and the Caribbean are eyeing farming with new interest. “There is effectively margin to increase production,” said Alejandro Izquierdo, principal economist at the InterAmerican Development Bank. “There is a move in

the region to look for new land and new production opportunities.”

The promise of high returns has prompted China to plan investments in Argentina to produce soybeans in areas of the country not previously considered apt for the crop. In the meantime, as lowincome households seek relief from rising food costs, governments should avoid price subsidies, said the World Bank’s Cox. Subsidies are costly, do not target the most needy and the downward pressure on prices often discourages local food production, she said. Instead, the World Bank urged Latin American policymakers to increase existing social assistance payments targeted at poor families on the condition they keep their children in school and get health care. “You can get a lot more bang for your buck if you use a much more targeted system,” Cox said. —Reuters

Carter heads to Havana amid US-Cuba troubles US ex-president to meet Cuban leader

NEW YORK: The new Ronald H Brown United States Mission to the United Nations is seen in New York. President Barack Obama will attend the dedication of the building today. Brown was the United States Secretary of Commerce, serving during the first term of President Bill Clinton. He was killed, along with 34 others, in a 1996 plane crash in Croatia.— AP

Emails: Insiders worried over political ‘meddling’ WASHINGTON: Insiders at the Homeland Security Department warned for months that senior Obama administration appointees were improperly delaying the releases of government files on politically sensitive topics as sought by citizens, journalists and watchdog groups under the Freedom of Information Act, according to uncensored emails newly obtained by The Associated Press.

The highly unusual political vetting was described as “meddling,” “crazy” and “bananas!” It is the subject of a congressional hearing later this week and an ongoing inquiry by the department’s inspector general.

Concerns came even from the official put in charge of submitting files to the political staff of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano for the secretive reviews. Chief Privacy Officer Mary Ellen Callahan, who was appointed by Napolitano, complained in late 2009 that the vetting process was burdensome and said she wanted to change it. Callahan is expected to be a central witness during an oversight hearing Thursday by the House Government Reform and Oversight Committee. In emails, she warned that the Homeland Security Department might be sued over delays the political reviews were causing, and she hinted that a reporter might find out about the political scrutiny.

“This level of attention is CRAZY,” Callahan wrote in December 2009 to her then-deputy, Catherine Papoi. Callahan said she hoped someone outside the Obama administration would discover details of the political reviews, possibly by asking for evidence of them under the Freedom of Information Act itself: “I really really want someone to FOIA this whole damn process,” Callahan wrote.

Less than one week after Callahan’s email, on Dec 21, the AP formally requested the records about the controversial political vetting. The agency ultimately turned over more than 995 pages of emails last summer, after a seven-month fight, and the AP wrote about the program. But the emails were heavily censored under provisions in the Freedom of Information Act allowing the government to withhold passages that describe internal policy-making deliberations.

The newly obtained versions of the same internal emails are not censored. Together with other confidential emails obtained by AP for the first time, the files reflect deep unease about the reviews plus new concerns about whether Napolitano’s senior political advisers might have hidden embarrassing or sensitive emails that journalists and watchdog groups had requested. After an admitted Al-Qaeda operative tried to blow up a commercial airliner flying to Detroit on Christmas 2009, the AP asked for emails sent among Napolitano; her chief of staff, Noah Kroloff; deputy chief of staff Amy Shlossman; and four others. But the number of printed pages that Kroloff and Shlossman turned over to the FOIA unit was much less than what a computer search indicated should have existed, according to emails.

“When (the chief information office) pulled off the emails for these individuals, the page count is much higher, indicating that Shlossman and Kroloff possibly did not retrieve all the responsive emails or opted not to produce all responsive emails,” Papoi wrote in May to Callahan. “I think we have an obligation to compare the hard copy emails to those pulled by the CIO from the individuals’ email accounts to determine why the discrepancy.”

More recently, immigration rights advocates asked the Homeland Security Department for emails that political advisers exchanged with US Immigrations and Customs Enforcement about a controversial enforcement program. Inside the government, the search turned up emails described as “embarrassing, crude exchanges.” But the political advisers never turned over their own embarrassing emails; these were revealed only when the recipients elsewhere in the department provided them.

“Apparently these embarrassing exchanges didn’t get turned over when the (political) front office conducted its search but they did when the ICE employees copied on these exchanges coughed up the responsive records,” the FOIA unit’s associate director, William Holzerland, wrote in January to Papoi. —AP

HAVANA: Former US President Jimmy Carter, returning to Cuba for the first time since a groundbreaking 2002 trip, started a three-day visit yesterday to discuss troubled US-Cuba relations and the fate of imprisoned US aid contractor Alan Gross.

Although just 90 miles of water separate the two Cold War enemies, Carter, 86, is the only US president, former or sitting, to visit the communist-ruled island since a 1959 revolution toppled a US-backed dictator and put Fidel Castro in power.

He and his wife, Rosalynn, were scheduled to arrive at Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport at 10:50 am, then meet with Cuba’s Jewish community and Cardinal Jaime Ortega, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Havana.

Castro, 84, welcomed Carter at the airport on his 2002 visit, but he stepped down as president three years ago after surgery and was succeeded by brother Raul Castro, 79.

It was not known if the younger Castro would greet Carter this time, but they will meet for talks today afternoon.

The Carter Center in Atlanta said the trip was a “private, non-governmental mission” for Carter to learn about Cuba’s new economic policies and talk about

ways to improve US-Cuba relations that have gone cold after a brief warming under US President Barack Obama. Cuba is preparing for a Communist

15 years in prison for providing illegal Internet access to Cuban dissidents.

Carter may only try to lay the groundwork for Gross’ release

2009, was working under a US program promoting political change on the island, which Cuba views as subversive. The case has angered the US gov-

HAVANA: Members of the Ladies in White hold up flowers as they demonstrate after their weekly march in Havana. Ladies in White is a group of relatives of Cuban dissidents who were imprisoned. — AP Party congress in mid-April to approve reforms to the island’s Soviet-style economy. Carter is expected to discuss the release of Gross, 61, who was put on trial this month and sentenced to

because Cuban officials reportedly have told him not to expect to take Gross home with him when he leaves on Wednesday. Gross, jailed since his arrest in Havana on Dec 3,

ernment, which contends Gross was in Cuba only to provide Internet access to Jewish groups and committed no crime.

Many think Cuba may be open to freeing Gross soon

because it has made its point about the US pro-democracy programs and because of humanitarian concerns. Gross’ 26-year-old daughter and 88year-old mother are both suffering from cancer. Gross has the right to appeal his conviction to Cuba’s highest court, but it is not known if an appeal has been filed. During his one term in office from 1977 to 1981, Carter took the most significant steps yet to improve US-Cuba relations. In his 2002 visit, he urged Washington to end its long trade embargo against Cuba.

He also called for democracy and better human rights in Cuba, and boosted dissidents by publicly mentioning their movement. The Castros complain regularly that Obama has done little to help relations, despite his stated desire to seek a “new beginning” with Cuba.

Obama has eased US travel restrictions to Cuba, allowed a free flow of remittances to the cash-strapped island and initiated new talks on migration and postal service issues. Cuba has released most of its political prisoners and is modernizing its economy, but Obama has said it must do more, including the release of Gross, if it wants better relations. — Reuters

Gun parts from Tennessee company found in Mideast

WASHINGTON: Anti-war protesters take part in a demonstration in front of the White House in Washington, DC, urging an end to the war on Libya. — AFP

Obama faces challenge of defining Libya’s strategy WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama faces the challenge of convincing Americans he has clear military aims and a US exit strategy in the Libya conflict as he seeks to counter growing congressional criticism. In a high-stakes televised address, Obama-accused by many lawmakers of failing to explain the US role in the Western air campaign against Libya’s Muammar Gaddafi-will try to define the mission’s purpose and scope. His task was made easier when NATO agreed on Sunday to assume full responsibility for military operations in Libya, ending uncertainty about who would lead the allied effort.

Obama is expected to hail the alliance’s decision as proof he is making good on his pledge that the United States-with its forces entangled in Iraq and Afghanistan-will play only a limited role in a war in a third Muslim country. Rebel gains on the battlefield in Libya could also give him a boost. But Obama still must reassure an American public preoccupied with domestic economic concerns that intervention in Libya serves US national interests and also overcome doubts that he has a clear idea of an end game.

“I know how concerned people are, and obviously the president will speak to the country Monday night to answer a lot of those concerns,” US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton told CBS News’ “Face the Nation.” Coalition allies will also be listening closely. Obama’s speech,

scheduled for 7:30 pm EDT (2330 GMT) comes just one day before a high-level conference in London billed as a discussion of political strategies to end Gaddafi’s 41-year authoritarian rule of his oil-exporting North African nation.

Obama’s address to the American people marks his boldest move to seize back control of the Libya debate in Washington. Republicans have been the most outspoken in their complaints that he has failed to communicate thoroughly the mission’s goals, and some have chided him for not seeking congressional approval.

While most fellow Democrats are still backing him, some see a lack of a coherent exit plan.

“This policy has been characterized by confusion, indecision and delay,” Republican Senator John McCain told Fox News on Sunday.

“It’s no wonder that Americans are confused as to exactly what our policy is because on one hand they say it’s humanitarian, on the other hand they say Gaddafi must go.” White House officials defend Obama’s cautious approach as necessary to forge a coalition, including Arab support, and deny any failure to articulate US objectives. Obama has said the purpose of the UN-approved military action was to protect civilians, not to oust Gaddafi. However, he has made no secret of his desire to see Gaddafi go.

What remains unclear, however, is what happens if Gaddafi stays in power despite a no-fly zone and air strikes. —Reuters

NASHVILLE: Affidavits attached to search warrants for a Tennessee company show that illegally trafficked assault rifles and gun parts connected to the company were found in Middle Eastern countries, including Jordan and the United Arab Emirates.

Federal court documents unsealed related to Sabre Defense Industries, fill in the picture of an alleged conspiracy to skirt US regulators and law enforcement to gain an advantage in the international arms industry. Four local Sabre executives charged in a 21-count federal indictment are scheduled to change their not guilty pleas Monday, The Tennessean reported.

The alleged fraud included British owner and CEO Guy Savage and Nashville officials using “phony shipping documents” and invoices from “fairy land,” sending gun parts overseas under false bottoms in shipping containers and stamping silencers illegally imported from Finland as if they were manufactured in Nashville, according to the affidavits. By 2007, Sabre officials were going as far as calling silencers “lawn mower mufflers” and rifle barrels “gear shafts” in their effort to fly under the radar of regulators. Federal prosecutor John Webb confirmed that the four Tennessee defendants - President Charles Shearon, Chief Financial Officer Elmer Hill, Director of Sales Michael Curlett and International Shipping and Purchasing Manager Arnold See Jr - have reached a plea agreement with the government. The details of the agreements will be filed with the US District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee after Monday’s hearing. Webb said Savage has an extradition hearing this week in Britain.

Lawyers for the defendants did not return phone messages and emails seeking comment. The unsealed records paint a picture of Savage, having purchased the Nashville gun manufacturer formerly known as Ramo Defense Systems in 2002, with the hope of shipping parts to his British company, also named Sabre, and hoping to score US defense contracts.

When US authorities threw up roadblocks, Savage turned to illegal means to keep guns and parts flowing between his US and UK companies to remain competitive. The alleged fraud continued for several years, even as individuals within and outside the company raised concerns.

Concurrently, loose inventory controls allowed lower-level employees to remove Sabre weapons and components from the Nashville production line, according to the affidavits. In some instances two guns would be labeled with the same serial number, allowing one to enter circulation without documentation. One former employee, Charles Kerr, is accused of selling Sabre guns to a local buyer. Both men are charged with illegal gun trafficking in a federal indictment.

The documents reveal that Sabre has been under investigation since 2007 by two separate federal agencies. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement started an investigation that year after receiving a tip that Sabre was illegally exporting M16 parts to the UK. In 2008, DHL flagged a suspicious package sent by Sabre in Nashville and bound for Sabre in the UK Agents found 71 finished M4 rifle barrel assemblies under a false bottom in the shipping container.

After being confronted by ICE agents in 2008, Shearon said, “We (messed) up and I don’t want you guys to think we are criminals,” according to the affidavits. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms started a separate investigation in 2009 when the circumstances of a reported burglary at the home of Sabre salesman Rick Rardon raised suspicions. Investigators thought the burglary appeared staged and that the guns might have been sold illegally. ICE and ATF combined their efforts once they became aware of each other’s investigations. A series of emails from 2003 to 2008 and obtained by investigators show Sabre management and employees illegally moving guns and parts, including silencers, the affidavits state.

In a December 2003 email, Hill wrote an email to Savage and said, “We are currently ‘stretching’ the rules on stating the value and description of parts that we are sending you.” In 2004, Shearon wrote Savage an email stating, “The 100 barrels without chambers will be ready Mon. or Tues. if we can find someone dumb enough to sign the shipping documents we will send them to you.” Hundreds of guns ultimately found their way to the volatile Middle East.

Webb said authorities continue to investigate the end destination of the illegally trafficked guns and gun parts.— AP

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

US ‘won’t rule out’ arming Libya rebels Washington’s stance is at odds with UK

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama delivers his address on Libya at the National Defense University in Washington, Monday. —AP

Obama’s pragmatic interventionism WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama gave a key address Monday to a skeptical and war-weary American public, outlining the reasons he decided to intervene militarily in Libya. Rather than setting out some new doctrine for humanitarian intervention, Obama’s justifications were pragmatic and based on the notion that the United States had a unique opportunity and capacity to intervene in this case. Here are the main points: UNIQUE AMERICAN ROLE “For generations, the United States of America has played a unique role as an anchor of global security and advocate for human freedom. Mindful of the risks and costs of military action, we are naturally reluctant to use force to solve the world’s many challenges. But when our interests and values are at stake, we have a responsibility to act.”

GADDAFI’S BRUTAL ACTIONS “Innocent people were targeted for killing. Hospitals and ambulances were attacked. Journalists were arrested, sexually assaulted, and killed.... “Cities and towns were shelled, mosques destroyed, and apartment buildings reduced to rubble. Military jets and helicopter gunships were unleashed upon people who had no means to defend themselves against assault from the air.

“Confronted by this brutal repression and a looming humanitarian crisis, I ordered warships into the Mediterranean.

“Gaddafi declared that he would show ‘no mercy’ to his own people. He compared them to rats, and threatened to go door to door to inflict punishment. In the past, we had seen him hang civilians in the streets, and kill over 1,000 in a single day.

Now, we saw regime forces on the outskirts of the city. We knew that if we waited one more day, Benghazi-a city nearly the size of Charlotte-could suffer a massacre that would have reverberated across the region and stained the conscience of the world.”

PARTICULAR PLACE, PARTICULAR TIME “Much of the debate in Washington has put forward a false choice when it comes to Libya. On the one hand, some

question why America should intervene at all-even in limited ways-in this distant land. They argue that there are many places in the world where innocent civilians face brutal violence at the hands of their government, and America should not be expected to police the world, particularly when we have so many pressing concerns here at home. “It is true that America cannot use our military wherever repression occurs. And given the costs and risks of intervention, we must always measure our interests against the need for action. But that cannot be an argument for never acting on behalf of what’s right.

In this particular country, Libya, at this particular moment, we were faced with the prospect of violence on a horrific scale. We had a unique ability to stop that violence: an international mandate for action, a broad coalition prepared to join us, the support of Arab countries, and a plea for help from the Libyan people themselves. We also had the ability to stop Gaddafi’s forces in their tracks without putting American troops on the ground.”

MORAL RESPONSIBILITY “To brush aside America’s responsibility as a leader and-more profoundly our responsibilities to our fellow human beings under such circumstances would have been a betrayal of who we are. Some nations may be able to turn a blind eye to atrocities in other countries. The United States of America is different. And as president, I refused to wait for the images of slaughter and mass graves before taking action.”

STRATEGIC INTEREST “Moreover, America has an important strategic interest in preventing Gaddafi from overrunning those who oppose him.

A massacre would have driven thousands of additional refugees across Libya’s borders, putting enormous strains on the peaceful-yet fragile-transitions in Egypt and Tunisia. “The democratic impulses that are dawning across the region would be eclipsed by the darkest form of dictatorship, as repressive leaders concluded that violence is the best strategy to cling to power.” — AFP

WASHINGTON: The Obama administration has not ruled out arming rebel fighters in Libya, the US officials said yesterday, despite assertions by key US allies that such a move would be outside the UN mandate. “We’ve not made that decision... but we’ve not ruled that out,” Washington’s UN ambassador Susan Rice told ABC television when asked about military support to the fighters battling Gaddafi’s forces. Her remarks echoed earlier US statements suggesting that UN Resolution 1973 allows for arming the rebels.

But Washington’s stance is at odds with one held by British Defense Minister Liam Fox, who told the BBC at the weekend: “We are not arming the rebels, we are not planning to arm the rebels.”

Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron agreed, telling parliament: “I think I am right in saying that the resolution is clear.... There is an arms embargo, and that arms embargo has to be enforced across Libya.” The Wall Street Journal reported that Egypt has been funneling arms to the rebels, but US officials will neither confirm nor deny the report. “We’re not in direct support of the opposition, that’s not part of our mandate and we’re not coordinat-

ing with the opposition,” Vice Admiral Bill Gortney, director of the US military’s Joint Staff, told reporters Monday.

Absent direct military support, Rice noted yesterday there were also “non-military means at our disposal” to get rid of Gaddafi, the longest-serving Arab ruler after over four decades in power, citing an arms embargo, asset freezes, cutting off the flow of mercenaries to the North African nation and aid to the opposition. She stressed that protecting civilians and establishing a no-fly zone were the main US goals in the international mission there. “Tens of thousands of people have been saved in a region that is fragile; it is more stable as a result,” she told CBS television in a separate interview yesterday.

US President Barack Obama has said he wanted Gaddafi out, but Rice said there is no indication that the Libyan leader plans to step down “absent continued pressure from the international community,” she added.”How Gaddafi departs, and under what circumstances, will ultimately be for the Libyan people to decide,” Rice said.

“But the United Nations Security Council, the United States and our allies have made

very clear that there needs to be accountability and justice for crimes committed.”

Castro slams ‘fascist war’ Meanwhile, Cuban leader Fidel Castro branded international military action in Libya a “fascist war” yesterday, and urged strongman Gaddafi to fight back to “his last breath.”

“If Gaddafi honors his people’s traditions and decides to fight to the last breath as promised with the Libyans who are facing the worst ever bombing a country has ever suffered, it will spell a mire of shame to NATO and its criminal projects,” Castro wrote in an article published in Cuban media.

The 84-year-old retired communist leader, who has visited Libya and met with Gaddafi several times, said he was speaking “freely” because he does not share the Libyan ruler’s “political views or religious character.” In his article titled “NATO’s Fascist War,” Castro-a US foe long in Washington’s crosshairs-compared the Libyan bombing campaign to raids conducted by Nazi pilots against Spain in 1936.

“Now, the criminal and discredited NATO is telling a ‘beautiful’ story about its ‘humanitarian’ bombing,” he said. — Agencies

International Libya action breaks records for speed WASHINGTON: The international response to the Libyan crisis has come at warp-like speed compared to past conflicts when military action was bogged down for months, even years, amid endless diplomatic drives. This time it took just 32 days from the start of the uprising against Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi on February 15 to March 19 when the United Nations passed a resolution allowing for air strikes against regime forces to protect civilians.

A week later and the 28 members of NATO had agreed to take over command of a no-fly zone over Libya, and are readying this week to take full command of the military operation. “When you think about it, for an organization of 28 states, getting to consensus given where we were just a few days and weeks ago, we moved with extraordinary speed,” a senior US official said. During the first Gulf War, some 20 years ago, it took five and a half months between Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Kuwait on August 2, 1990 to the launch of Operation Desert Storm under UN auspices.

And there were years of foot-dragging and hesitant, hand-wringing debate about what international action was appropriate in the face of the massacres in Sierra Leone or the former Yugoslavia. Not to mention the blind eye turned by the world to the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, in which an estimated 800,000 people died, or the unbridled killings in Darfur, Sudan. In those tragedies, an acute lack of political will was blamed for allowing those responsible to continue

unchecked. This time round in Libya several nations came together to push for an international action, experts said. Western powers had powerful motivation for moving quickly to aid rebels in Libya, said Stephen Flanagan, of the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.

Britain and France were compelled by “a sense that you could have a rather horrendous situation unfolding right on Europe’s doorstep,” he argued. France was also fearful of seeing a wave of immigrants land on its doorstep.

“It’s not just access to Libyan oil, there is also a tangible security threat to French interests at home and abroad. France does not want to face another wave of North African refugees,” said Bilal Saab of the Brookings Institution. World powers were also spurred into quick action by the fear that Gaddafi would make good on his threat to exact a bloody revenge on the insurgents in the rebel stronghold town of Benghazi.

Yet another prod came from three major players in the United States: Washington’s UN ambassador Susan Rice, White House Adviser Samantha Power and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. All three US officials are united by their regret that the United States did not do more to prevent the Rwandan genocide.

They played a major role in urging President Barack Obama to set aside his reservations and take military action in Libya.

Obama late Monday hailed the speed of the international community’s response, high-

lighting that a broad coalition had been built, strong sanctions had been put in place and a no-fly zone established “in just one month.”

“To lend some perspective on how rapidly this military and diplomatic response came together, when people were being brutalized in Bosnia in the 1990s, it took the international community more than a year to intervene with air power to protect civilians,” the US leader said.

The response to the recent upheavals in North Africa and the Middle East have also been made possible by Twitter and other new forms of fast-paced forms of communication, analysts said. “It’s fueled by the news cycle, the constant barrage of information,” said Romesh Ratnesar, a journalist and fellow with the New America Foundation in Washington.

“The speed at which these movements have spread has been accelerated because of the access the people have to information, because of the Internet, Twitter, Facebook and other things,” Ratnesar said. “In previous situations, you’ve got a couple of reports a day. Now it’s a constant stream-reliable or not-coming out of the conflict zone.”

Flanagan agreed the “Twitterverse” has affected not only the speed with which diplomatic policy is being made, but the decisions about how and where interventions occur. “People have argued, why this and not Sierra Leone?” he said. “I think that’s because there has been a good deal more reporting on this.” — AFP

Mexico’s disappeared: Forgotten victims of drug war MEXICO CITY: Mexico’s battle with its powerful drug cartels has seen almost 35,000 deaths since 2006, but it has also seen the disappearances of an unknown number of others, often without trace. A United Nations commission yesterday received information from distraught families and rights groups about 250 people who have disappeared in recent years in northern Mexico, the area worst-hit by the drug violence.

In most cases, the non-governmental organizations blame organized crime for the disappearances, but in around 50 they allege participation by security forces.

Some victims are petty criminals, some are illegal immigrants, others are simply caught in the wrong place at the wrong time. Yolanda Moran is convinced that soldiers abducted her son, Dan Jereemel Fernandez, a father of four, in December 2009 in Torreon, in northern Coahuila state.

One week after the abduction, police arrested a soldier driving Fernandez’s car. “I talked to the soldier but he didn’t want to say anything to me,” Moran said. “His

statement helped them to arrest three other soldiers. But when the four soldiers were transferred to a Torreon prison, an armed gang broke in and killed them.” Another soldier also suspected in the crime was arrested in March 2010 and, shortly afterwards, killed during a prison fight, according to Moran.

In the investigation, authorities are now seeking a former soldier suspected of leading a cell of the violent Zetas drug gang, which was founded in the 1990s by elite military deserters.

Fernandez’s family is one of 118 to have sought help since 2007 from the Fray Juan de Larios Center for Human Rights, set up in Saltillo, Coahuila. The UN working group on forced or involuntary disappearances is visiting the town yesterday. Many families believe the authorities are barely investigating their cases and the Mexican government is failing to act. “ There are more than 34,000 k illed, but no one k nows how many are missing. They don’t exist.

Everyone ignores them,” Moran said. The scale of the phenomenon has become more apparent

with the discoveries of hidden graves used by the gangs to hide their victims’ bodies. One grave discovered in June contained 55 bodies.

In a sinister case two years ago, a henchman for the Sinaloa cartel in Tijuana said he had dissolved about 300 bodies using acid. The cases bring back painful memories of forced disappearances between the 1960s and 1980s, in a “dirty war” against the extreme left. At least 789 disappeared then, according to an official report. The method reappeared in the past four years- coinciding with the deployment of 50,000 troops to take on organized crime since 2006 — according to the 24 NGOs making up the National Campaign against Forced Disappearances.

Non-governmental organizations hope that the UN delegation will encourage Mexican officials to intensify investigations into missing people and create legislation to prevent and persecute the crimes. “I hope that the group will understand the situation and pressure the government to listen to us,” Moran said. — AFP

7 bodies found in an abandoned car CUERNAVACA: Police found the bodies of six men and one woman inside a car abandoned in an exclusive gated community near the picturesque central Mexican city of Cuernavaca. Morelos state police said officers found three bodies inside the car and four more in the trunk in the town of Temixco near Cuernavaca. Police gave no other details.

Violence spiked in Morelos state since the Dec. 2009 death of drug kingpin Arturo Beltran Leyva as splintered groups began fighting for control. In northern Mexico, the army killed four alleged gunmen in the border city of Nuevo Laredo. The army said in a statement that assailants traveling in two cars opened fire on troops on patrol on Monday. It said the gunmen died when troops return fired.

A shootout between rival gangs in the northern city of Monterrey killed two men, including a hot dog vendor caught in the cross fire, state police said.

Three others were injured, including a 2-year-old and the child’s father. In western Michoacan state, the bodies of two men were found with messages from a new drug gang that has been taking responsibility for recent killings in the region and claims to be a replacement for the weakened La Familia cartel.

The bodies were left on a road in the city of Apatzingan, their heads wrapped in tape and their feet and hands bound, the state prosecutors’ office said. The message read: “The Knights Templar will not permit assassins to kill innocent people.” — AP

HAVANA: Former President Jimmy Carter, left, greets Cuba’s Cardinal Jaime Ortega before their meeting in Havana, Cuba, Monday. Carter arrived in Cuba to discuss economic policies and ways to improve WashingtonHavana relations, which are even more tense than usual over the imprisonment of Alan Gross, a US contractor, on the island. —AP

Airport body scanners not a health risk: Study WASHINGTON: Full-body scanners used to secure airports, about 1,000 of which will be deployed across the United States by year’s end, do not pose health risks, a study released Monday found. The University of California study appearing in the “Archives of Internal Medicine” found that a traveler would have to go through a body scanner 50 times to receive the same amount of radiation as from a dental X-ray.

The researchers also said a lung X-ray was equivalent to 1,000 trips through an airport scanner, while a mammogram delivers as much radiation as passing through such a scanner 4,000 times. The study focused on x-ray machines dubbed “backscatter” which use low-dose x-rays, similar to those used in medical imaging.

So far there are some 486 full-body scanners in place in 78 US airports. “The radiation doses emitted by the scans are extremely small; the scans deliver an

amount of radiation equivalent to 3 to 9 minutes of the radiation received through normal daily living,” the authors wrote.

And “since flying itself increases exposure to ionizing radiation, the scan will contribute less than one percent of the dose a flyer will receive from exposure to cosmic rays at elevated altitudes,” they added. “The estimation of cancer risks associated with these scans is difficult, but using the only available models, the risk would be extremely small, even among frequent flyers. We conclude that there is no significant threat of radiation from the scans,” they wrote.

Advanced imaging technology X-ray scanners currently in use at airports around the United States sparked an uproar among travelers because they produce a graphic image of a person’s naked body, genitalia and all. Others have worried the scans might be unsafe. — AFP

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Myanmar regime set to transfer power YANGON: Myanmar will swear in its new president within two days, paving the way for the imminent transfer of power from the ruling junta to a nominally civilian government, officials said yesterday. Prime Minister Thein Sein, who shed his army uniform to contest controversial elections last year, was named in February for the top job in the new parliament, where the military retains a stranglehold on power. “The president will be sworn in tomorrow. If they cannot hold it tomorrow, it will be the day after tomorrow,” an official in Myanmar told AFP, on condition of anonymity.

“After he is sworn in, the ruling State Peace and Development Council (SPDC) will hand over power to the new government.” The SPDC, previously known as the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC), seized power in 1988, but the country has been under military

rule since 1962. “The SPDC will be automatically dissolved after they hand over power to the new government,” added another official, saying this transfer was likely to be on Friday. Senior General Than Shwe, who has ruled with an iron fist since 1992, remains commander-in-chief of the army. Although he has not taken the top political role, many analysts believe he will attempt to retain some sort of control behind the scenes.

His key ally Thein Sein had been tipped for the presidential post even before the vote, supporting fears that the regime has engineered the political process to hide military power behind a civilian facade. The 65-year-old became a civilian last year to contest the November election as head of the junta-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP), which claimed an overwhelming majority in the poll.

Sources inside Myanmar say Than Shwe “summoned both outgoing and incoming ministers on Saturday, telling them to obey the leadership of the party which is going to take the main leading role”, said US-based analyst Win Min. “He also urged them to try their best not to split the party. It’s interesting that he was worried about such split,” added Win Min, also a pro-democracy activist.

The formation of a national assembly in Naypyidaw, convened for the first time at the end of January, takes the country towards the final stage of the junta’s so-called “roadmap” to a “disciplined democracy”. A quarter of the parliamentary seats were kept aside for the military even before the country’s first poll in 20 years, which was marred by the absence of democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi and claims of cheating and intimidation. USDP lawmakers bagged 388

of the national legislature’s 493 elected seats.

Suu Kyi has no voice in the new parliament. Her National League for Democracy (NLD) party was disbanded for opting to boycott the vote because the rules seemed designed to bar her from participating. The election, and Suu Kyi’s release from house arrest a few days later, have reignited a debate about economic sanctions enforced against the regime by the United States and European Union because of Myanmar’s human rights abuses.

The EU is poised to decide in April whether to continue the punitive measures, which global think-tank International Crisis Group has criticised as “counterproduc tive”.

Supporters of the trade and financial sanctions say they are the only way to pressure the rulers of Myanmar, where there are about 2,200 political prisoners. —AFP

Japan finds plutonium in soil at stricken nuclear plant Radiation increases, bad news piles up from site TOKYO: Plutonium found in soil at the

PAJU: South Korean chief delegate Ryu In-chang, right, shakes hands with his North Korean counterpart Yoon Yong Geun during a meeting to discuss a joint research on volcanic activity at the North’s highest Paektu mountain, at the Inter-Korean Transit Office in Paju, South Korea yesterday. —AP

Two Koreas in talks on potential volcano threat SEOUL: North and South Korea held talks yesterday about a potential volcanic threat from the peninsula’s highest mountain, in a rare interlude of cooperation after months of confrontation. The meeting at the South Korean border town of Munsan follows heightened concern about natural disasters, after an earthquake and tsunami devastated northeastern Japan and crippled an atomic power plant there.

The North’s chief delegate Yun YongGun expressed concern at radioactive leakage from the Japanese plant after his team including three experts crossed the border early yesterday. “We are actively watching for fear that radioactive contamination may reach us,” he said at the beginning of the talks with four South Korean delegates, according to Yonhap news agency.

After day-long discussions the two sides agreed on the need for joint research into potential hazards from Mount Paekdu on the border between North Korea and China, said Ryu InChang, a geologist with South Korea’s Kyungbook National University. The North offered access to the peak for the South’s experts, Ryu told reporters, adding that a date for their next meeting would be fixed later.

Pyongyang’s official news agency said the two sides “agreed to positively cooperate with each other” and meet again early next month. Following the Japanese disaster, Pyongyang’s earthquake bureau had proposed joint research into possible activity at the mountain, which is considered sacred by both sides. Mount Paekdu is mentioned in the South’s national anthem, while North Korea says its current leader Kim Jong-Il was born there. North Korean schoolchildren are required to visit the peak to pay respects to the ruling

dynasty. Since its last eruption in 1903, the 2,740-metre (9,042-foot) mountain has been dormant. But experts say it may have an active core, citing topographical signs and satellite images. The South’s National Institute of Environmental Research said in a recent report that an eruption could lower temperatures by two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in northeast Asia for two months, devastating agriculture.

Geologist Yoon Sung-Hyo of Pusan National University told Yonhap last week that a massive release of sulphuric gas was detected from the mountain last November. Yoon said it was almost impossible to predict when the volcano might erupt, but the South could provide monitoring equipment if the North allowed access.

The talks could also have a political impact, according to professor Kim YongHyun of Seoul’s Dongguk University.

Cross-border relations have been icy since the South accused the North of torpedoing a warship in March 2010 with the loss of 46 lives. Pyongyang denies the charge, but went on to shell a South Korean island last November, killing four people.

Kim said the North was putting out feelers for possible dialogue with Seoul.

“The meeting is between experts but it could serve as a breakthrough in the frozen ties between the two Koreas,” he told AFP. Concerns about the stability of Mount Paekdu increased after a magnitude-7.3 earthquake hit northeastern China in 2002.

Some experts say the North’s underground nuclear tests in 2006 and 2009 may also have destabilized its core. In the event of an eruption, a huge crater lake could overflow and deluge surrounding areas, in addition to other potentially massive damage. —AFP

Fukushima nuclear complex heightened alarm yesterday over Japan’s battle to contain the world’s worst atomic crisis in 25 years, as pressure mounted on the prime minister to widen an evacuation zone around the plant. Some opposition lawmakers blasted Naoto Kan in parliament for his handling of the disaster and for not widening the exclusion zone. Kan said he was seeking advice on such a step, which would force 130,000 people to move in addition to 70,000 already displaced.

The drama at the six-reactor facility has compounded Japan’s agony after an earthquake and tsunami on March 11 left more than 28,000 people dead or missing in the devastated northeast.

In a gesture of support, France said it had sent two nuclear experts to Japan to help contain the accident and French President Nicolas Sarkozy will visit on Thursday for a meeting with Kan. France is the world’s most nuclear-dependent country, producing 75 percent of its power needs from 58 nuclear reactors, and selling state-owned Areva’s reactors around the world.

Sarkozy will be the first foreign leader to visit since the earthquake.

In the latest blow to hopes authorities were gradually getting the plant under control, operator Tokyo Electric Power Co said plutonium was found at low-risk levels in soil samples at the facility. A by-product of atomic reactions and also used in nuclear bombs, plutonium is highly carcinogenic and one of the most dangerous substances on the planet, experts say. They believe some of the plutonium may have come from spent fuel rods at Fukushima or damage to reactor No. 3, the only one to use plutonium in its fuel mix. Japan’s Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency said while the plutonium levels were not harmful to human health, the discovery could mean the reactor’s containment mechanism had been breached.

“Plutonium is a substance that’s emitted when the temperature is high, and it’s also heavy and so does not leak out easily,” agency deputy director Hidehiko Nishiyama told a news conference. “So if plutonium has emerged from the reactor, that tells us something about the damage to the fuel. And if it has breached the original containment system, it underlines the gravity and seriousness of this accident.” Sakae Muto, a Tokyo Electric vice-president, said the traces of plutonium-238, 239 and 240 were in keeping with levels found in Japan in the past due to particles in the atmosphere from nuclear testing abroad.

“I apologize for making people worried,” Muto said. With towns on the northeast coast reduced to apocalyptic landscapes of mud and debris following the quake and tsunami, more than a quarter of a million people are homeless. The event may be the world’s costliest natural disaster, with estimates of damage topping $300 billion. Workers at Fukushima may have to struggle for weeks or months under extremely dangerous conditions to re-start cooling systems vital to control the reactors and avert total meltdown.

On Monday, highly contaminated water was

YAMAMOTO: A relative of victim of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami cries at a mass grave site in Yamamoto, Miyagi Prefecture, northeastern Japan yesterday. —AP found in concrete tunnels extending beyond one reactor, while at the weekend radiation hit 100,000 times over normal in water inside another. That poses a major dilemma for Tokyo Electric, which wants to douse the reactors to cool them, but not worsen the spread of radiation.

Japan’s nuclear safety agency said fuel rods in the plant’s reactors 1, 2 and 3 were damaged and there was a high possibility of some leakage from their containment vessels. The crisis, the worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986, has contaminated vegetables and milk from the area, as well as the surrounding sea. US experts said groundwater, reservoirs and the sea all faced “significant contamination”.

A Tokyo Electric official told a briefing he could not rule out the possibility that radioactive water could still be entering the sea, though there was no continuous flow. Tokyo Electric has sought help from French companies including Electricite de France SA and Areva SA . French Ecology Minister Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet said yesterday that experts from Areva and nuclear research body CEA had been sent to Japan “to share our experience on pumping and the treatment of radioactive water”. As well as seeking help from France, Japan is also consulting the United States. The government has declined to outline any specific plan for its nuclear energy policy but said renewable energy would play an important role in future.

Experts have said the lack of information and some inconsistent data made it hard to understand what was happening at Fukushima, which appears to have moved from a core-meltdown phase to one in which management of released radioactivity is paramount. Another pressing concern has been the well-being of people living near the plant. More than 70,000 people

Stiffer penalty sought for Khmer Rouge torturer PHNOM PENH: Prosecutors in Cambodia urged a UN-

backed tribunal yesterday to stiffen the sentence against the Khmer Rouge’s chief jailer to life in prison and to convict him of new, separate crimes against humanity. The arguments came on the second day of appeal hearings for Kaing Guek Eav , also known as Duch , who was sentenced last July to 35 years in prison for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the “killing fields” regime of the 1970s.

His sentence was reduced to a 19-year term due to time served and other technicalities, prompting an appeal from prosecutors and angry criticism from victims who called the penalty too lenient. The 68-year-old Duch headed the Khmer Rouge’s notorious Tuol Sleng prison, known as S-21, where only a handful of prisoners survived. Up to 16,000 people were tortured under Duch’s command and later taken away to be killed. The extreme communist Khmer Rouge forced the entire population to work in agricultural collectives during their 1975-1979 rule that left 1.7 million Cambodians dead from torture, starvation and disease.

Prosecutors argued yesterday that Duch’s crimes should not have been wrapped into the broad charge of crimes against humanity. Instead, they said, he should have been prosecuted for distinct offenses including overseeing rape, torture and enslavement as crimes against humanity, which would have allowed for a longer prison sentence.

The court’s initial conviction “does not recognize all the interests that were ruptured by this man nor does it serve posterity, truth or reconciliation for this country as

record for what happened,” prosecutor Andrew Cayley said. “What does it say to the future generations about what this man did to his own people?” “You must impose a life term, reduced to no less than 45 years,” Cayley told the court, effectively requesting to keep Duch behind bars until he is at least 113. “It is for the Cambodian people, their need for justice, their need for retribution, their need for reconciliation.” Families of victims have expressed outrage that the initial sentence could allow Duch to one day walk free. Cayley argued that international tribunals in Yugoslavia and Rwanda gave life sentences to people convicted of killing or torturing fewer people over shorter periods of time than Duch. Defense lawyers, meanwhile, are seeking a lesser sentence for Duch. The defense argued yesterday that Duch, a former school teacher, was himself a victim of the Khmer Rouge leaders.

“He had no other choice than to implement the orders, otherwise he would have been killed,” defense attorney Kang Ritheary told the court. “If you were in his shoes, in 1979 ... what would you do?” The sentence imposed by the court showed “the international community that the court was nothing but a venue for vengeance,” Duch’s lawyer said.

He added that rape was not systematic at S-21, saying that Duch reacted to rape cases by replacing male interrogators with females. The appeals process is scheduled to wrap up this week, with a decision expected in a few months. Four other senior Khmer Rouge leaders are awaiting trial later this year: Nuon Chea, the Khmer Rouge’s chief ideologist; Khieu Samphan, its former head

of state; Ieng Sary, its foreign minister; and his wife Ieng Thirith, who was minister for social affairs. All four are in their 70s and 80s and in poor health. The Khmer Rouge’s top leader, Pol Pot, died in 1998. —AP

PHNOM PENH: In this photo released by the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, Kaing Guek Eav, also known as Duch, who ran the notorious Toul Sleng detention center, greets court officers during his appeal at the UN-backed war crimes tribunal in Phnom Penh, Cambodia yesterday. —AP

have been evacuated from within 20 km (12 miles) of the facility. But opposition MP Yosuke Isozaki blasted Kan for not ordering people living between 20 km and 30 km (12-19 miles) from the plant to also leave.

“Is there anything as irresponsible as this?”

Isozaki asked. The 130,000 people living inside the wider zone have been encouraged-but not ordered-to leave. Environmental group Greenpeace has urged an extension of the 20km evacuation zone while the United States has recommended its citizens who live within 80 km (50 miles) of the plant to leave or shelter indoors.

Kan, leading Japan during its worst crisis since World War Two, was already deeply unpopular and under pressure to resign when the crisis began.

He repeatedly defended his decision to fly over the stricken nuclear site a day after the quake, saying it had been important to see it for himself. His top spokesman on Monday denied the visit had delayed operations to cool the reactors, as some media had reported. The crisis has also put enormous pressure on Tokyo Electric, criticized for safety lapses and a slow disaster response. Its boss, Masataka Shimizu, has barely been seen.

The government might nationalize Tokyo Electric to deal with the crisis, National Strategy Minister Koichiro Gemba said. Its shares have fallen almost 75 percent since the quake including a 19 percent tumble to a 47-year low.

Beyond the evacuation zone, traces of radiation have been found in tap water in Tokyo and as far away as Iceland. Japanese officials and international experts have generally said the levels away from the plant were not dangerous for human beings, who in any case face higher radiation doses on a daily basis from natural sources, X-rays or flying. —Reuters

China defends planned executions of Philippine trio BEIJING: China yesterday defended the planned executions of three Filipinos on drug trafficking charges, as special masses were held in the Philippines for the trio. “In China, our judicial authorities handled the cases independently and we grant equal treatment to foreign drug traffickers,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu told reporters. “The rights and treatment of the individuals involved have been ensured and safeguarded in accordance to law. China has fulfilled its international obligations in the process.”

Ramon Credo, 42, Sally Villanueva, 32, and Elizabeth Batain, 38, are due to be put to death today after Chinese authorities rejected Philippine appeals for clemency. The Philippine government had insisted that the three, who are among 227 Filipinos jailed in China for drug offences, were from poor families and had been duped by international crime syndicates into becoming drug couriers.

It had heavily lobbied Chinese authorities to spare the lives of the trio, and Vice President Jejomar Binay was even sent to Beijing last month on a mercy mission. Chinese authorities briefly postponed the executions due to his visit, but later announced that they would still go ahead. Executions in China have traditionally been carried out by shooting. But increasingly, lethal injections are being used. —AFP

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India to charge former minister in graft case Two more executives arrested NEW DELHI: Indian police will file charges against a former telecoms minister and other government and corporate officials this week, a government lawyer said yesterday, in a multi-billion dollar telecoms corruption case that has shaken government and business. Alleged corruption in a 2007-08 telecom spectrum allocation has damaged confidence in the ruling Congress government, led to calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and spooked investors in Asia’s thirdlargest economy.

The announcement of the first formal charges in the investigation into a scandal that a government auditor estimates cost the exchequer up to $39 billion comes hours after two more arrests of company executives.

The charges may put further pressure on the embattled prime minister, criticized by the Supreme Court for failing to act quickly enough against his minister. While his government will likely survive, the scandals have

KABUL: Afghanistan’s attorney general spokesman Amanullah Iman talks during a press conference in Kabul yesterday. Afghan authorities arrested a senior advisor to President Hamid Karzai on embezzlement charges, the office of the attorney general said. —AFP

Karzai adviser investigated over graft: Afghan govt KABUL: An adviser to the Afghan president was taken to a Kabul detention centre yesterday as part of a graft investigation, a government spokesman said, after earlier announcing the official’s arrest.

Amanullah Iman, spokesman for the attorney general, said Noorullah Delawari was taken to the centre to meet a former transport minister being investigated for misusing public funds, but had not been formally arrested.

Iman said his initial announcement, which came after the arrest Monday of former transport minister Inayatullah Qasimi, had been the result of a “misunderstanding.” “Mr Delawari has not been arrested, he has been taken to the Kabul detention centre to meet Mr Qasimi as part of the investigation,” he told journalists at a press conference.

Iman said Delawari, a former governor of the Afghan central bank and a senior advisor to Afghan President Hamid Karzai, was being investigated as part of a corruption probe related to governmentbought aircraft. On Monday, Iman said Qasimi faced charges of misusing public funds in relation to the purchase of two aircraft for the Afghan national carrier, Ariana, a deal he said had lost the government more than $9 million.

Karzai’s government is under intense pressure from its Western backers to crack down on rampant graft that pervades all sectors of Afghan society. But there have been allegations that the president has blocked investigations to protect those closest to him. Last November, the government dropped corruption charges against a top Karzai aide, Mohammad Zia Salehi, who was arrested by the US-backed Major Crimes Task Force after he was caught on a wiretap soliciting a bribe.

Afghanistan is one of the world’s most corrupt countries, ranked only just ahead of lawless Somalia in a list compiled by global watchdog Transparency International. Delawari served as governor of the central bank between 2004 and 2007, and is still on its board of directors as well as being the head of the Afghan Investment Support Agency (AISA), set up to encourage investment in the country.

Delawari returned to Afghanistan from the United States, where he worked in private banking, after the 2001 fall of the Taliban. In 2003 he founded the AISA, serving as its leader until he took over at the helm of the central bank a year later. Rahmatullah Nazari, Afghanistan’s deputy attorney general, said in November that about 20 senior Karzai government officials, including former ministers, were being investigated over corruption charges.-—AFP

almost paralysed policymaking.

Police will file charges against former telecoms minister A. Raja, government officials and two companies, on April 2, government lawyer K.K. Venugopal told the Supreme Court yesterday. Investigations will be completed by end-May, and more charges are expected to be filed, Venugopal said.A federal report into the allocation highlighted irregularities and said kickbacks had been paid when licences were granted in 200708 at rock bottom prices. The report forced the resignation and arrest of Raja.

Executives Asif Balwa and Rajiv Agarwal were arrested yesterday in connection with the telecoms probe, a spokeswoman for India’s federal investigative agency said. The two arrested yesterday are executives with real estate firm DB Realty , according to the company’s latest annual report as well two people with direct knowledge of the matter.

Balwa is the brother of former DB

Realty Managing Director Shahid Balwa, who was arrested in February in connection with the telecoms investigation. DB Realty’s parent DB Group is Etisalat’s India mobile joint venture partner.

Police lawyers earlier in court accused Raja, the former telecoms minister, of having taken bribes from firms which are now the Indian arms of Telenor and Etisalat to grant them lucrative mobile phone licences.DB Reality declined comment yesterday.

All of those previously arrested have denied any wrongdoing.

The opposition has called for Singh’s resignation and halted parliament, effectively blocking economic reforms such as freeing up diesel prices and allowing foreign investors into the supermarket sector. The scandal has touched the very top of Indian society, including some of the stars of India’s economic boom once seen as untouchable. Police have questioned businessmen including Anil Ambani, the billionaire chairman

Child kidnapping rampant in Nepal KATHMANDU: Criminal gangs and armed groups operating in Nepal’s restive southern plains are abducting children for ransom and sometimes murdering them, Human Rights Watch said yesterday. At least 28 children were abducted in the Terai region during 2010, according to the group’s survey based on English-language media, with nine of them killed and two girls raped by their kidnappers.

The New York-based rights group said the evi-

dence pointed to much broader criminal activity across Terai, which has recently been hit by a series of minor bomb blasts.

“These armed groups are willing to risk children’s lives to extort money from poor shopkeepers, farmers, and teachers,” said Bede Sheppard, senior children’s rights researcher at Human Rights Watch.

“If the police consistently fail to get these children freed and home safely, they lose the faith of

bors have fought since independence in 1947.“The talks are extremely positive,” Indian Home Secretary GK Pillai told reporters.

“We have moved forward and the trust deficit has reduced.”

The two sides also agreed to set up a hot line to discuss terror threats in real time. A joint

the community they are supposed to protect.”

One woman died and at least 30 people were injured when several small bombs exploded last week inside buses across Terai, which has been caught in a low intensity insurgency since the country ended its decade-long civil war in 2006.

Though security officials claim that the insurgency has been significantly reduced, local newspapers are filled with reports of abductions, killings and extortion. —AFP

Bangladesh court adjourns Yunus appeal DHAKA: Bangladesh’s Supreme Court adjourned a hearing yesterday on whether Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who has fallen out with the government, was illegally removed from his pioneering “microfinance” bank. Yunus, who won the Nobel Prize in 2006 for his concept of small cash loans to help tackle poverty, did not attend the hearing, at which he is appealing against a central bank order which sacked him from Grameen Bank.

“Our legal team sought more time to prepare our case and to allow discussions to continue,” his lawyer Tamin Husain Shawan told AFP. “The hearing has been adjourned until April 4. We were seeking a four-week deferment but the Supreme Court turned this down.”

The United States warned last week that ties with Bangladesh could be affected if a solution was not found to the clash between the government and Yunus, who is celebrated worldwide for his work helping the poor.

Yunus, 70, was dismissed as managing director of Dhaka-based Grameen Bank last month in what his supporters said was the culmination of a political vendetta against him. He has defied the central bank order, returning to work at Grameen’s headquarters and lodging the appeal contesting his dismissal.

Supporters of Yunus claim the economist was ousted from the helm of his own bank after falling out with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina when he set up a shortlived political party in 2007.—AFP

KARACHI: Pakistani Muslim religious students offer afternoon prayers at a local seminary in Karachi, Pakistan yesterday. Around 1, 000 Muslim students have held a special prayer session asking for Pakistan’s victory over India in the semi final of the Cricket World Cup. —AP

Indian investigators to visit Pakistan in Mumbai probe NEW DELHI: Pakistan has agreed to allow a visit by Indian investigators as part of their probe into the 2008 Mumbai militant attacks in a significant confidence building measure between the nuclear-armed neighbors.Civil servants in charge of security issues ended two days of talks in New Delhi yesterday, seeking to rebuild trust after the Mumbai attacks that had raised fears of a fourth war between the two countries.

Today, the two nations’ prime ministers will attend what is expected to be a highly charged World Cup cricket semi-final between India and Pakistan in the northern Indian town of Mohali.India has long sought permission to have its investigators visit Pakistan to help their inquiries into the attacks. The breakthrough is a further boost ahead of ministerial talks in July that will cover issues such as the disputed territory of Kashmir and efforts to clamp down on terrorism- in what is known as the “composite dialogue”.

India has been frustrated at what it sees as Pakistan’s reluctance to bring the perpetrators of terror to justice, feeding a climate of mistrust that is the legacy of three wars the South Asian neigh-

of the Reliance ADA Group.

Notices have gone out to telecoms firms asking why their licences should not be cancelled, sparking questions about regulatory stability.

On Monday, a parliamentary panel probing the scandal called top Indian tycoons Ratan Tata and Anil Ambani to depose before it.

The scandal has weighed on the benchmark Mumbai stock market , which is down 7.6 percent since the start of the year, underperforming the MSCI’s broader emerging markets equities index , which has gained 2.4 percent. The corruption scandals, which include charges of graft at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and of officials at state-run banks taking bribes for corporate loans, have tarnished Singh’s image as a clean and effective leader. They could also affect the performance of the ruling Congress party in five state elections that begin in mid-April, in which the Congress must perform well or risk the coalition unravelling. — Reuters

statement did not elaborate when the visit to Pakistan would take place. Dates for a visit of a Pakistani delegation to India in connection with the Mumbai attacks would be decided within 4-6 weeks, according to the statement. “It’s a major step forward,” said Siddharth

Varadarajan, Strategic Affairs Editor at the Hindu newspaper, adding it would hopefully accelerate diplomatic efforts for July.

Former Pakistani Interior Secretary Tasneem Noorani called the agreement to allow Indian investigators into Pakistan a breakthrough.“I think there are

PESHAWAR: Pakistani army officers and soldiers offer prayers of their comrades killed in Monday’s friendly fire during a mass funeral yesterday in Peshawar, Pakistan. Friendly fire killed 11 Pakistani troops and two officers caught up in a militant ambush close to the Afghan border, a top commander said.—AP

big breakthroughs in the sense that the stumbling block was the Mumbai attack issue and there seems to be progress on it,” he said.“ Both Pakistan and India are saying, ‘All right, let’s proceed ahead, you send your chaps and we will send our chaps and let’s get on with it.’” India suspended ties after 166 people were killed in the Mumbai attacks which India blamed on Pakistan-based militants acting in collusion with elements of the government, including Pakistan’s spy agency.

India wants Islamabad to act against groups operating from its soil, including Pakistan-based militant group Lashkar-e-Taiba, or LeT, said to be behind the Mumbai massacre.

Pakistan has acknowledged the attacks were plotted and partly launched from its territory, and has put on trial seven suspects linked to LeT, which has been fighting Indian forces in Kashmir since the early 1990s.

Peace efforts have been stopstart for years with little progress on the future of Kashmir, which is divided between India, Pakistan and China. High-profile militant attacks such as Mumbai and an attack on the Indian parliament in 2001 have seriously strained relations. — Reuters

UK pays Afghan civilians over deaths, injuries LONDON : Britain’s defense ministry paid out 1.3 million pounds (US$2.1 million) last year in compensation to hundreds of Afghan civilians for deaths, injuries and damage to homes, data published yesterday reveals. The figures obtained by the Guardian newspaper under freedom of information laws show that Britain paid out in 951 cases of property damage, injury or death during 2010, while 409 applications for compensation were rejected. The average payment was just over 2,000 pounds ($3,200) , often far below the amounts demanded. The summaries of the claims show the disruptions of war to local people , “267 trees cut down for force protection”; “claims Warthog (armored vehicle) damaged crops.” Others convey human tragedies in short, stark terms. One reads: “Two brothers and two sons killed by hellfire (missile) strike.” Another reads: “Compound destroyed. Mother and sister killed.”

Among the lowest payments for a death was an offer of $875 over the death of a girl killed following a rocket attack in the Nad-e-Ali district of the southern Helmand province. The Ministry of Defense said payments were made in most cases as a goodwill gesture, not as recognition of legal liability.

Previous figures showed Britain paid out 1.42 million pounds ($2.3 million) between April 2009 and March 2010. Britain has about 10,000 troops in Afghanistan, most in Helmand, which has seen heavy fighting between NATO-led forces and Taleban insurgents. The US military and other members of the NATO-led force regularly make condolence payments to families of civilians accidentally killed.

Guidelines for US Army units in Helmand last year foresaw $1,500-$2,500 to compensate the death of a child or an adult.—AP

16

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

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Issues

Rooftops to revive Spain flagging solar industry

By Martin Roberts olar panels on the rooftops of Spain are likely to pay for themselves within five years without needing subsidies and revive an industry in the doldrums after the country became the world’s second-largest producer. Analysts predict the cost of small rooftop panels will become competitive with retail power prices long before the cost of larger, ground-based plants, which must compete with lower wholesale prices for electricity produced from gas or coal. “We believe that commercial and residential rooftop solar power generation has great potential in Spain, and across Europe,” said Rupesh Medlani, an analyst with Barclays Capital.

“Panel price falls in recent years combined with higher retail energy costs has made the economics far more attractive.” Solar power currently provides 2 percent of Spain’s electricity, but producers need subsidies to operate plants. Wholesale power prices in Spain are around 5 eurocents a kilowatt-hour.

Consumers typically pay 17 eurocents, and the costs of roof-mounted panels are expected to fall below that level by 2016. Industry group Asif estimates that sunlight falling on just 1.1 percent of Spain’s surface area could provide all of the country’s energy needsnot just electricity-which is less than half the 2.3 percent already taken up by urban areas. “You wouldn’t even have to cover all the roofs in Spain with solar panels,” said Asif spokesman Tomas Diaz. “There is the issue of how you would do it, how you manage demand for electricity, but there is no problem at all over area or potential,” he added.

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NET METERING Photovoltaic panels, which directly convert sunlight into electricity, produce power directly for the consumer and avoid losses along transmission lines, which eat up around 8 percent of all power generated by utilities. Rooftops also could cut out the need for solar plants to use up valuable hectares of farmland.

Spain has so far installed few rooftop panels, however. A draft decree awaiting approval by Spain’s energy regulator plans to make it easier for consumers to finance solar panels by allowing them to feed any power they do not use into the grid. Utilities would then discount the surplus from the final bill, a practice known as “net metering”, which is already on the statute books in Germany and 43 US states. A recent report by accountants KPMG estimated rooftop units in Spain could cut electricity consumption by 60-80 percent for residential buildings and 40-60 percent for commercial or industrial premises by 2015.

Germany is the world’s biggest solar power producer, with more than four times the generating capacity of second-placed Spain, although it receives less than one-third as much sunlight. Most of its installations are on rooftops. “Spain in many regions has a lot more sun-hours, so therefore if the economics work in countries like Germany and the UK, then there’s no reason to think the economics can’t work in a country like Spain,” said Peter Sweatman, chief executive of consultants Climate Strategy. Asif estimates that rooftop panels are already cost-effective in the southerly Canary Islands, where grid connections are relatively scarce and expensive.

FINANCING EASIER The International Energy Agency, an adviser to industrialized nations on energy policy, estimates solar power could provide up to a quarter of the world’s electricity by 2050 but will need government support before the technology becomes cost effective. Generous feed-in tariffs made Spain the world’s biggest solar market in 2008 but cost the government billions of euros. It then capped the number of plants entitled to support and last year cut feed-in tariffs for existing plants by 45 percent. Diaz said financing a residential PV panel for 10,000-25,000 euros ($14,050-35,130) - comparable to other building work- is far simpler for an installer than a utilityscale project. “He won’t ask for project finance. He will ask for credit but won’t run into financial restrictions faced by other PV projects,” he said. —Reuters

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

Syria poses new dilemma for France’s Sarkozy

By Catherine Bremer rench President Nicolas Sarkozy has stolen the international limelight with his bravura intervention in Libya but he may find it trickier to deal with the gathering crisis in Syria. It was Sarkozy after all who ended Syria’s international isolation when he feted President Bashar Al-Assad in a visit to Paris in 2008. Assad was given the seat of honor at Bastille Day celebration, marking the moment at which Assad’s Baathist regime was accepted back into the international community.

Nobody sees France or any other Western power wanting to start another military campaign. Yet Sarkozy has set a precedent that puts him under pressure to take an equally firm hand on the crackdown on pro-democracy protests in the former French colony. More than 60 people have been killed in towns across Syria as demonstrations have spread in recent days, prompting Assad to send the army out on the street as he faces the gravest crisis in his 11-year rule. Sarkozy-who grabbed control of the world response to the Libyan crisis to reassert France’s influence in North Africa after its clumsy handling of revolts in Tunisia and Egypt- must come up with a smart strategy on Syria or lose his new kudos, analysts say.

“He can’t go out on several fronts at once, and the front where he is engaged is starting to show the difficulties of such an operation,” said North Africa expert Christian Bouquet at the University of Bordeaux III. “On the ground Sarkozy has stated, human rights and democracy, there should be interventions in several countries including Syria, and Ivory Coast, but he would not be able to mobilize the international community ... and there would be a hierarchy problem of where he should go first.” The tensions in Syria have not reached the level they did in Libya when Sarkozy called the emergency summit that launched air strikes against Muammar Gaddafi’s troops.

Syria’s ties with Iran and the fact it borders Israel, Iraq and Turkey would make military action an undesirable option, especially given the high risk of repercussions from groups like the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement or Hezbollah in Lebanon. The United States has already played down the possibility of a military solution in Syria and France, as its colonial power until 1946, would also be reluctant to use force. “Iran is very involved with this regime. Iran would defend it with all means possible,” said Antoine Basbous, head of the Paris-based Observatory of Arab countries. “What’s at stake if the Syrian regime falls is not just a matter of Syria internally, the stakes are above all geopolitical ones on regional scale.”

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STRAINED RELATIONS In recent days, Sarkozy has slammed Assad’s hard line on protesters, saying every Arab ruler should understand that it was unacceptable to have the army fire live shots at protesters. Foreign Minister Alain Juppe, brought in to rebrand French diplomacy after his predecessor quit over her Tunisia blunders, urged Damascus to listen to the voice of dialogue and democracy.

Sarkozy is in a tight spot because of the hero’s welcome he gave Assad at the Mediterranean summit in Paris in 2008, an event that reset Syrian relations with Europe after years of isolation for supporting terrorism.

Much like Gaddafi, who Sarkozy received on a grandiose state visit in 2007, Assad was persona-non-grata until the

Paris meeting sealed a new detente with the West. The visit reset Franco-Syrian relations, strained since the 2005 assassination of Lebanese prime minister Rafik al-Hariri, which Paris believed was orchestrated from Damascus. It will be hard for Sarkozy to

turn against somebody he so publicly backed, even if his turnaround on Gaddafi shows he can ditch old friends if they prove too unsavory.

What is sticky for Sarkozy today is that somebody he met several times and laud-

DAMASCUS: Pro-Syrian President Bashar Assad supporters stand on a traffic light and wave Syrian flags to show their support for their president yesterday. — AP

ed as a reformer has ended up keeping Syria’s authoritarian political system intact.

Assad’s Baath party allows no meaningful opposition and the Assad family, members of the prominent minority Alawite sect, controls much of Syria’s economy. That said, Assad could still be a better bet for the West than a rashly decided replacement.

“Previously, there was cautious language towards Syria; it was an effort to offer an olive branch because we were hoping for results, but things have changed since then,” a French diplomatic source said.

Most observers see Sarkozy continuing to use strong but measured diplomatic language on Syria and perhaps pushing for UN sanctions as a second step, as he did last week with Nigeria over Ivory Coast’s incumbent leader.

That could meet with opposition from China and Russia, which in turn could raise more questions about how the UN Security Council can respond to fast-moving crises, said Bouquet. “Everything that’s happened in the past three months raises the question of how the UN is organized, how it can react and be effective. If Sarkozy wants to advance things, he must first pose that underlying question before focusing on specific cases,” he said. “If Sarkozy is cunning,” he added, “He will hide behind the UN’s double entendres to avoid having to intervene right away in a hot spot like Syria.”— Reuters

In new Egypt and Tunisia, some buyers return

By Carolyn Cohn and Sujata Rao tock markets in Egypt and Tunisia are starting to lure back foreign investors after the ousting of decades-old autocratic regimes, but some blue-chip shares could struggle because of links to previous governments. While conflict and protest continue to hit countries in the Middle East and North Africa from Libya to Syria, these markets have traditionally not attracted large international portfolio flows, due to underdeveloped markets or lack of foreign access.

Economies like Egypt and Tunisia, however, were increasingly a favorite with emerging market investors prior to regime change, and investors who fled during the countries’ revolutions are now looking for ways to get back in. Fund tracker EPFR estimates around $80 million left dedicated Middle East and North Africa funds this year. Egypt opened its stock exchange last week for the first time in nearly eight weeks, following the downfall of President Hosni Mubarak. The reopening headed off worries that Egypt could be ejected from the MSCI emerging equities index, used as a benchmark by many emerging market investors.

Before its closure and after it reopened, Cairo, the region’s most liquid and biggest bourse, saw a big cash exodus. Its main index fell to a two-year low last week, with 2011 losses reaching 30 percent. Tunisia’s market has closed twice for several days at a time, after the ousting of President Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali in January. State telecoms operator Tunisie Telecom was forced to postpone a planned listing in Paris and Tunis. But the tide could be turning; on Sunday, Cairo posted its first gain since mass protests erupted on Jan 25, and markets rose again on Monday.

Tunis fell 20 percent this year up until the second closure on Feb 28, but has risen 10 percent since it reopened on March 7.

Traders say investors are grabbing stocks they believe have become cheap. Egyptian heavyweight Orascom Telecom, for example, is up 20 percent since the reopening. “We have been buying, we like the look of some of the banks, construction companies, telecoms,” Graham Stock, chief strategist at Insparo Asset Management, told Reuters Insider TV. But he added: “We are wary of companies that are too associated with the Mubarak regime.” Stock’s concerns are shared by many. They stem from action taken by the new government against the many businesses that are seen to have benefited from links to the Mubarak family. Investors say the Egyptian stock exchange has required them to confirm their clients do not include a number of individ-

S

uals associated with the Mubarak regime. In Tunisia, firms say a blacklist of companies associated with the Ben-Ali regime has been drawn up by the new authorities.

There was an undeniable nexus between business and the government in both countries. In Egypt, 70-80 top businessmen sat in Egypt’s old parliament as members or allies of the government. Tunisia’s central bank estimated recently that 180 companies were controlled by associates of Ben Ali and his wife. Yet many investors worry that asset expropriations and action against big businesses may end up causing more capital outflows and harm the ability to attract foreign investments.

One London-based fund manager who was previously positive on Egypt said he had become more cautious. “Things have changed a bit. There is a concern that the country may spend a bit too much time looking backwards rather than forwards and there could be some scapegoats,” the investor said. “Most of the successful companies pretty much had a good relationship with the powers-that-be. Shares in Egyptian firms Ezz Steel and property developer Palm Hills have tumbled 40 and 50 percent on the year respectively, with both firms’ chairmen facing charges for alleged crimes under the former government.

WARINESS SPREADS Few doubt the countries’ long-term potential, with some even likening Egypt to Turkey in terms of demography and companies. But these are challenging times for North Africa where economies are suffering the fallout from months of protests.

Tourism and direct investments are down, remittances from citizens employed in Libya and Bahrain are suffering and it is costlier to raise cash on bond markets. Investors are also wary of other markets where there have been protests, but no regime change, such as Morocco.

Oliver Bell, who helps manage $10 billion in emerging stocks at Pictet, recently cut his underweight on Egypt and says the newsflow on witchhunts has in fact started to abate. He attributes recent buying partly to the looming dividend season-some firms such as Telecom Egypt and petrochem firm Sidi Kerir have 10 percent dividend yields, he notes. But Bell is steering clear of Morocco and Tunisia. “Morocco has escaped the turmoil so far but there were 35,000 people on the streets recently so you can’t rule it out,” he said. “The money that goes into Morocco also tends to look at Tunisia. The newsflow on Tunisia has been positive but with everything else going on, I want to see the whole picture.”— Reuters

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WEDNESSDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

analysis

Libya rebels face sterner tasks ahead

By Angus MacSwan ibya rebels have enjoyed remarkable success in the past few days of their war against Muammar Gaddafi’s forces, but they face sterner tasks ahead which will show if they have reached their limits. Allied air strikes have been the crucial factor in their advance through more than 300 km of desert, bringing them to within 80 km of the Gaddafi loyalist stronghold of Sirte. Last Friday, the rebels were still trying to oust Gaddafi’s forces from Ajdabiyah 150 km to the south of their de facto capital Benghazi.

Pulverised by air strikes, on Saturday morning Gaddafi’s troops retreated hastily, leaving behind equipment from smouldering battle tanks, stores of ammunition to field rations. In one day they pulled back more than 250 km and the front line now stands near the town of Bin Jawad. The rebel cavalcade moves forward kilometer by kilometer exchanging barrages with Gaddafi’s troops but it appears that without air strikes they cannot make a new significant advance.

At Sitra, the rebels poured rocket and missile fire into the town for a few hours on Monday afternoon. Watching from sand dunes a few kilometers away it was hard to see if they were accurately targeting Gaddafi’s forces on the outskirts or the fire was landing in the town itself. If the West’s avowed mission is to protect civilians in the conflict, that could pose a problem. That question might become even more important should the rebels reach Sirte. The town is known to be more loyal to Gaddafi and as his birthplace it has benefited from his largesse. The allies, already in dispute over what the limits of their mission should be, may have difficulty justifying air strikes. Gaddafi’s troops should also be able to resupply

Focus

Oil majors, miners divided over US corruption rules

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By Ed Stoddard il and mining companies are divided in their views toward looming US anti-corruption reporting requirements that will force them to disclose payments to foreign governments. If the American Petroleum Institute, an influential industry lobby, and companies such as Exxon Mobil have their way with US regulators, the law’s effectiveness in increasing transparency may be watered down where it is most needed. Part of last year’s Wall Street reform act, the law is aimed at breaking what is known as the “resource curse” that prevents less-developed countries from translating mineral or oil wealth into broad prosperity.

One key area of conflict: What happens when an oil company listed in the United States has a project in, say, an oilrich autocratic African country whose laws prevent disclosure of information about payments to the government?

The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which is finalizing rule-making on the matter, asked for public comment in December on whether exceptions should be made in the case that a foreign state’s law forbids such disclosure.

Pointedly, it also asked for specific examples of where national anti-disclosure laws would conflict with the provisions, putting the ball into the industry’s court. Submissions to the SEC reveal that oil majors have different takes on this crucial issue.

Brazil’s Petrobras, which will fall under the new US rules because of a secondary listing on the New York stock exchange, said that as far as it was aware, no countries had curbs on official disclosure. “Brazil’s oil and gas regulations do not prohibit the disclosure of payments by resource extraction companies to the Brazilian government or to any government outside of Brazil,” it said in a submission. “We are active in 29 countries outside of Brazil, and we are not aware of such a prohibition in any of those countries.”

Included in those countries is Angola, Africa’s number two oil producer behind Nigeria and fast becoming an important strategic source for US oil supplies.

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BIN JAWAAD: Libyan rebels move back from the frontline outside of Bin Jawaad, 150 km east of Sirte, central Libya yesterday. — AP and bring in reinforcements at Sirte.

REBEL MORALE HIGH The rebel army still seems to be relying more on enthusiasm than expertise. A colourful convoy of battlewagons and civilian cars, it stretches out several miles along the coastal highway with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and an expanse of desert boulders and scrub to the other. The towns are forlorn collections of squat brown buildings some houses damaged by war, many in a general state of disrepair. The rebels move forward in fits and starts but their inexperience shows.

On Monday, the vanguard of the cavalcade was hit by a roadside ambush that

was answered with a long bout of firing, rockets and machinegun fire raking the desert. Later in the afternoon the front of the army was outflanked by Gaddafi’s troops coming out of Sitra.

The frontline was pulled back several kilometers. “We have been lucky for three days,” said rebel fighter Mustafa Mehrek, 39, the driver of a battlewagon. “For most of the people it is their first time fighting.”

It is genuinely a people’s army. Rebels spoken to by Reuters at the front included a lawyer, an engineer, a coffee-shop worker, students and the jobless.

They said they had professional officers but it was hard to find any command centre and decisions to advance seemed to

have been made collectively on the spur of the moment. “We have officers and we have control, but there are many groups,” said Saad Sati, a rebel fighter, as he watched his comrades blast shots of celebration in the air. Morale is kept high by sometimes false battle reports passed down the line informally. On Monday morning rebels as far back down the line as Ajdabiyah were celebrating the fall of Sirte.

It was not true. There is no shortage of food. Pickups run up and down the lines distributing bread, processed cheese, dates, water and tins of tuna fish. But petrol is becoming a problem as petrol stations within sight of huge, idled oil terminals run dry.— Reuters

Rise of the ‘Second Society’

By Dr Sami Mahroum he sudden and rapid change that had swept across the Arab world over the recent few months has taken the world by surprise. All of a sudden, the status quo was challenged and the long- held prerequisites for change were replaced by cell phones, an Internet connection and a Facebook account. It is a unique movement in that it does not have charismatic leaders as much as a common groundswell of opinion. It is in the hands of many, rather than in the wake of one.

For decades, western governments and the intelligentsia behind them did not think the conditions required for a democratic change were present in the Arab world.

For Islam, the religion of the majority that dominates Arab culture needs first be reformed before a democratic revolution can take place. For that, almost all major western countries have launched Arabic language TV and radio networks, set up dedicated cultural exchange and research programmes, and assigned special envoys to the region in the hope that these will help start the cultural transformation needed to bring about a democratic change.

Arab governments were largely (and happily) in agreement that it was premature for their societies to embrace democracy. Instead, many governments sought to cause change by adopting and encouraging a consumerist culture. Governments used their powers to create a middle class that is tied to them on the basis of shared materialistic interests. Subsequently, new shopping malls, five stars hotels, and gated communities sprinkled across much of the Arab world largely owned by elites linked one way or another to the people in power.

In turn, militant and radical groups sought actively to sabotage incumbent governments’ policies through militancy and an underground modus operandi. Tourists were attacked or taken hostages and hotels were bombed. The internet, satellite, and mobile telephony technologies have helped these groups organize, produce and distribute propaganda materials, but they remained largely ineffective due to their militancy and radical views that could only appeal to a very small minority of people.

For decades, the eyes and thoughts of analysts interested in the Arab world have focused on these three players

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and the interplay among them- western governments, Arab governments, and militant groups. On the margins, there was a ‘second society’ emerging, one that has gone largely unnoticed, namely the ‘Arab Youths Society’, which has now culminated in several countries to become the ‘Arab Youths Movement’.

Over a period of 30 years, the number of Arabs has more than doubled surging from 173 million in 1980 to 352.2 million in 2009. According to the UN, assuming that fertility levels continue to decline, the total population of the Arab region is projected to reach 428.4 million by 2020.

The majority of these are under the age 24 and live in cities. The ‘youth bulge’ is expected to increase to 73 million in 2015. This is important as some studies suggest that countries where young adults make up more than 40 per cent of the working age population are more likely to experience armed conflict than countries with lower proportions of youth.

The last three decades have seen a surge in higher education in the Arab world, along with the privatization and internationalization of the Arab tertiary education system.

A 2008 report by the Arab Investment & Export Credit Guarantee Corporation revealed that there has been an increase in the number of universities in Arab countries from 233 in 2003 to 385 in 2008, including 115 private universities (about 4.4 times the figure for 1993). According to the same report, Tunisia has experienced the highest increase in the number of universities (doubled from 22 to 44 universities, including 31 private universities).

While education and socio-economic analysts have been busy critiquing the quality and quantity of the output of these universities, Arab youths were finding with a very new university a new space for association, networking, and the exchange of ideas and sentiments. Places of worship (churches and mosques) were no longer the only spaces for legal gathering, and however monitored university campuses have been, Arab youths increasingly had more arenas than the previous generations to meet and mingle.

The wide and rapid spread of the information and communication technologies (ICT) in Arab countries has added another massive new space for association, networking and the exchange of ideas. ICT has also opened new

avenues for pursuing higher education and training over distance and with foreign institutions. Not only did the internet allow Arab youths to meet and mingle over Facebook and Myspace, but also to rapidly develop and share an underground culture transmitted over cell phones. From gossip and rumors about the political class to sharing politicized opinions and non-conformist values, mobile internet applications, borne primarily over mobile phones, have provided Arab youths with new spaces for self-expression.

The Arab world has witnessed a rapid increase in the number and role of civil society and non-governmental organizations. These have been largely tolerated given their single issue orientations and non-confrontational operations. They have also helped attract investments from international and private donors where governments have failed. While exact numbers are not available, it is clear for anyone engaged with this sector in the Arab world to notice its attraction for high calibre young Arab volunteers and workers.

The expansion of this sector has provided yet one more new space for Arab youths to develop and express awareness around important issues affecting their societies.

Furthermore, working with NGOs and other third sector organizations provided exposure to the global third sector community around the world. The result is the emergence of -what the Hungarian sociologist Elemer Hankiss once coined in reference communist countries in Europe- the ‘second society’. Universities, ICT, and NGOs furnished Arab youths with institutions that run parallel and almost independently from state run institutions. Second Society institutions are loose, virtual, and sub-cultural, which made them agile, resilient and very effective at organization and delivery. They survive on small budgets, need little hardware, and require low level of technical skills. Ironically, many of the infrastructure and services supporting Second Society institutions were owned by people in government or close to it. This made it harder for governments to curb or shut down. The infrastructure behind Second Society institutions was amphibious in nature, owned by people who were benefitting from the status quo, but serving people who were increasingly disenchanted with the same status quo.

ANGOLA AND OTHERS Angola is often held up as a prime example of why such disclosures are necessary, because its highly secretive governing elite has long been accused of graft on a grand scale and of squandering much of the country’s vast petroleum wealth. Exxon Mobil, the world’s largest publicly-traded oil major, painted a different picture from Petrobras. “We understand that several commentators have expressed doubt as to whether, in fact, there are currently in effect any non-US laws against disclosure of resource extraction payments,” it said. “ExxonMobil has direct experience with non-disclosure laws in Qatar and Angola,” it said. In the submission it included an English translation of a directive which it said, “broadly prohibits disclosure of any information related to petroleum activities in Angola without authorization from the Ministry of Petroleum”.

Some analysts say it is not so cut and dried. “Companies are allowed to disclose information if they get approval from the ministry,” said Paul Bugala, a sustainability analyst at USbased Calvert Asset Management Company, which manages over $14.5 billion in assets. “The SEC shouldn’t be granting an exemption based on this ministry rule, as the ministry appears either not to enforce it or to grant exemptions all the time. For example, Statoil has reported its payments to the government of Angola for years,” he said, referring to the Norwegian oil major.

Statoil’s annual sustainability report, published on Friday, says it paid about 3.3 billion Norwegian crowns ($590 million) in direct taxes in 2010 to Angola. The American Petroleum Institute said in one of its submissions to the SEC: “API member companies can confirm to the Commission that disclosure of revenue payments made to foreign governments or companies owned by foreign governments are prohibited for the following countries: Cameroon, China, Qatar and Angola. “If the Commission does not provide an exemption from disclosure when prohibited by foreign law, the Commission will force these companies to either withdraw from these projects or violate foreign law,” it added.

TEXAS-SIZED LOOPHOLE? Commentators say if exemptions were made, it would open the flood gates and that corrupt resource-rich governments might rush to pass legislation to evade the increased scrutiny- effectively gutting the law’s original intent. “Our concern is that if you have broad exemptions, you are just inviting governments that don’t want to be transparent to pass blocking legislation,” said Diarmid O’Sullivan, a campaigner with Global Witness, an extractive industry watchdog. —Reuters

Obama leaves open some Libya questions

By Steve Holland resident Barack Obama argued on Monday that the United States had accomplished many of its goals in Libya. But a nagging question remained: How long will US forces be involved there? Obama has found himself facing criticism throughout the Libyan crisis.

First, he was accused of dithering for not acting sooner, and when he did act, US lawmakers felt the air assaults had begun without a proper explanation of the mission’s goals or how its success could be judged. In a speech trying to lay to rest those questions, Obama gave a thorough defense of why he launched the mission.

He said it was a justifiable humanitarian mission, limited in scope, to prevent a massacre by Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi against his people who oppose his 41-year rule. As it stands now, Obama could get a political boost from the Libyan operation. No American lives have been lost. The United States is no longer in the lead, meaning the mission’s costs may be limited in these days of tight budgets.

But af ter the speech, a variet y of questions lingered: Exit strategy. Obama

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made the case that the United States, by transferring control of the operation to NATO, had already all but exited. He said US forces would now take a back seat, providing intelligence, logistical support, search and rescue and a jamming of Gaddafi’s communications.

“So for those who doubted our capacity to carry out this operation, I want to be clear: the United States of America has done what we said we would do,” he said. But he did not offer a view on when the mission would be over, a question that may well be unknowable as long as Gaddafi remains in power and able to put pressure on Libyan rebels. Gaddafi’s future. Obama, war y of involving US forces in a third war to join Iraq and Afghanistan, said it is US policy that Gaddafi should leave power.

But he said it would be a mistake to launch into a “regime change” military operation against Gaddafi because “we went down that road in Iraq,” a clear shot at his Republican predecessor, George W Bush.

“We will deny the regime arms, cut off its supply of cash, assist the opposition, and work with other nations to hasten the day when Gaddafi leaves power. It may not happen overnight, as a badly

weakened Gaddafi tries desperately to hang on to power,” Obama said. So long as Gaddafi remains in power, Obama will be vulnerable to criticism that the mission goals were muddled.

Libyan rebels. Obama did not answer questions over how far the US would go to assist the rebels. Critics are asking if arms might be made available to help them in the fight against Gaddafi. Syria and Yemen. Obama did not offer a broader review of US policy on the turmoil in the Middle East, where revolts are threatening the rule of longtime leaders in Syria and Yemen.

But he may have ventured a tentative “Obama Doctrine” to explain how the United States will respond to the convulsions sweeping Nor th Africa and the Middle East. The United States would support aspirations for freedom but only take military action in concert with others, to uphold specific national interests and where there was a strong need to act for humanitarian reasons. “We welcome the fac t that histor y is on the move in the M iddle East and Nor th Africa, and that young people are leading the way, because wherever people long to be free, they will find a friend in the United States,” he said. —Reuters

KAMPALA: A man holding a placard shouts slogans in support of Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi, at the Pan African Freedom Square, in Uganda capital yesterday. Police in Uganda say they stopped supporters of Libyan leader from marching toward and possibly attacking US and other embassies in Kampala. A group of several hundred Africans from countries like Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania held an anti-US rally where they held signs like “Down with America” and “Down with Obama.” — AP

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Iranians enjoy holiday freedoms in Armenia YEREVAN: Iranian boys in jeans and leather jackets and girls in short dresses lose themselves in the rhythms of their idols, swaying to the beat and mouthing lyrics which are banned in their home country. Singers who are not allowed to play live in Iran entertain their fans every year at the Sport-Concert Complex in neighbouring Armenia - a relatively liberal Christian country which is attracting increasing numbers of tourists from the Islamic republic during the Persian new year festival of Nowruz.

Posters advertising concerts by Iranian musicians can be seen all over the Armenian capital during Nowruz, a twoweek holiday which some Iranians use as an opportunity to travel and escape the restrictions at home. “We love these singers so much, but they are banned in Iran,” said 21-year-old student Milad Alizadeh, one of thousands watching his heroes play their forbidden anthems live in Yerevan. “We love pop music and listen to it in our homes and cars, but not in public places.”

Alizadeh said that he was spending his time in Yerevan walking around the city, soaking up the local culture as well as going to bars and discos, dancing and drinking beer, which is also prohibited in Iran. “Yes, the freedom that exists here is attractive, but we are not only here for freedom and concerts - we want new experiences, new places, new people, new culture,” he said.

Iranian women on a Nowruz break in Yerevan often use the opportunity to cast off their headscarves and drab cover-all overcoats, and dress up in jeans and Tshirts. More than 20,000 tourists from the Islamic republic are expected to visit the Armenian capital during this year’s Nowruz celebrations, according to Hamid Mordakhani, a spokesman for the Iranian embassy. “Iranian people very much like to travel during the holiday period,” Mordakhani said. “Armenia also attracts Iranian tourists with its beautiful architecture, historic monuments and comparatively affordable prices.”

Yerevan restaurants which specialise in Persian cuisine have been doing good business. At Shirvan, an atmospheric little eaterie in the city centre, the walls are decorated with Persian paintings and carpets, the enticing smell of spices and the aromatic smoke from hookah pipes hangs in the air, and all the tables are reserved. “We barely manage to serve all the customers during Nowruz,” said the owner, Shirvan Ahad Javadi.

By Armenian standards, visiting Iranians are relatively big spenders. Some tourists are willing to spend up to $300 a night on rooms at city centre hotels, while tickets for Nowruz concerts featuring Iranian singers can cost as much as $70 - a significant sum in this small, impoverished ex-Soviet republic. “Iranians prefer to celebrate the holiday in Armenia because pop music and alcohol is banned in their country,” said Tigran Davtian, a local tourism expert. “In addition, both countries enjoy good-neighbourly relations, and there is a simplified visa regime.”

Suffering from long-term political disputes with two of its other neighbours, Turkey and Azerbaijan, which have led to an economic blockade and closed borders, Armenia has been developing its links with Iran - and not just in the sphere of tourism.

Trade turnover between the two countries has been increasing, from $206 million in 2009 to $273 million last year - a significant boost for Armenia’s fragile economy.

On a visit to Tehran for a Nowruz celebration on Monday, Armenian President Serzh Sarkisian said that the friendship and business links between the two countries were “a good example of cooperation and mutual enrichment between Christian and Islamic civilisations”. The two countries are working on several joint energy and transport projects, and the Iranian embassy in Yerevan predicts that the tourist inflow is also set to continue. “If the infrastructure and service standards in Armenia improve, the number of Iranian tourists will only increase,” said embassy spokesman Mordakhani. — AFP

YEREVAN: Iranian tourists pose for a picture in the Armenian capital on March 24, 2011. — AFP

Bahrain Shiite ex-MPs may face prosecution Continued from Page 1 On March 16, Bahraini security forces drove the mostly Shiite protesters out of central Manama’s Pearl Square and demolished their camp under a state of emergency, ending a month-long campaign on the streets. Bahrain’s interior minister told parliament yesterday that a total of 24 people were killed, including four policemen, in the month of unrest and linked the troubles to Lebanon’s Shiite militant movement Hezbollah.

Sheikh Rashed bin Abdullah AlKhalifa pointed to methods used by the protesters as well as statements of support from the Iranian-backed movement and from Tehran to corroborate his accusation. Former Shiite MP Matar Matar, meanwhile, argued parliament’s move yesterday was “illogical” in accepting some Wefaq resignations and ignoring the rest. Technically, Bahrain’s parliament can operate in the absence of Al-Wefaq.

But Sunni MP Ali Ahmed said the remaining seven cases were left pending in order to avoid any need to hold partial elections in their constituencies at a time of tension, with

Shiite villages under tight security.

Sunni Islamists and independent MPs pushed for the vote to accept the resignations, despite calls for a postponement to avoid an escalation. Wefaq suspended its membership in parliament on Feb 15 in protest at the use of lethal force against demonstrators in Shiite villages, where two demonstrators were shot dead. They stepped down at the end of February after the death toll in protests had risen to seven. At least 15 Shiites were killed in the clashes with security forces, according to an Al-Wefaq toll.

Bahrain’s military prosecutor, meanwhile, has imposed a news blackout on a probe of several leading opposition activists arrested during the crackdown on antiregime protests. Colonel Yosuf Fulaifel said the defendants were being investigated under the emergency law announced last month by the king, according to a statement carried by BNA news agency.

The US State Department said earlier this month it was “deeply troubled” by the arrests, especially of Ibrahim Sharif, head of Wa’ad, a political society, and Ali Al-Ekri, a doctor detained after criticising hos-

pital conditions. A coalition of seven opposition groups, backed by lawyers, has written to Bahrain’s public prosecutor protesting the handling of the probe by the military prosecutor. They stressed that the king announced an “emergency law and not martial law”, meaning that cases of detained civilians “remain within the jurisdiction of civil courts”.

A deadlock between the government and the opposition has persisted despite reports of a Kuwaitsponsored mediation aimed at launching a national dialogue between the two sides as proposed

by Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad. In a telephone call on Sunday, US Vice President Joe Biden urged Crown Prince Salman to open the long-mooted talks with opposition leaders. Biden “recognised the important steps taken by the crown prince to reach out to the opposition and that law and order are necessary” for dialogue to go ahead, the White House said in a statement. But he also “encouraged additional outreach and meaningful reform that is responsive to the aspirations of all Bahrainis”, it said. — AFP

Forces push back rebels Continued from Page 1 It took five days of allied air strikes to pulverise Libyan government tanks around the town of Ajdabiyah before Gaddafi’s troops fled and the rebels rushed in and began their 300-km, two-day dash across the desert to within 80 km of the Gaddafi loyalist stronghold of Sirte. But the rebel pick-up truck cavalcade was first ambushed, then outflanked by Gaddafi’s troops.

The advance stopped and government forces retook the small town of Nawfaliyah, 120 km east of Sirte.

“The Gaddafi guys hit us with Grads (rockets) and they came round our flanks,” Ashraf Mohammed, a 28-year-old rebel wearing a bandolier of bullets, told a Reuters reporter at the front.

The sporadic thud of heavy weapons could be heard as dozens of civilian cars sped eastwards away from the fight. One man stopped his car to berate the rebels. “Get yourselves up there and stop posing for pictures,” he shouted, but met little response. Later, a hail of machinegun and rocket fire hit rebel positions. As the onslaught began, rebels leapt behind sand dunes to fire back but gave up after a few minutes, jumped into their pick-up trucks and sped off back down the road to the town of Bin Jawad. Shells landed near the road as they retreated.

Without air strikes it appears the rebels are not able to make advances or even hold ground. The battle around Sirte, Gaddafi’s birthplace, will reveal if the rebel advance has reached its limit. Reports that some Nawfaliyah residents had fought alongside government troops are an ominous sign for world powers hoping for a swift end to Gaddafi’s 41-year rule.

Gaddafi accused Western powers of massacres of Libyan

Syria govt resigns after protests sweep...

Continued from Page 1

MP files to quiz minister Continued from Page 1 The Popular Action Bloc seized the opportunity by holding the prime minister responsible for the deterioration of situation in the country and called for his immediate resignation. The call was supported by several MPs. National Assembly Speaker Jassem Al-Khorafi said he received the grilling request and has informed the government. He also said the grilling will be listed on the agenda of the April 5 session when another grilling against deputy premier for economic affairs Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahd Al-Sabah is scheduled to be debated.

Khorafi said that it is up to the minister to debate the grilling on April 5 or to use his constitutional right to delay the debate for two weeks until the April 19 Assembly session.

Another Shiite MP Saleh Ashour is also expected to submit today a request to grill Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammad Al-Sabah over allegations that he failed to perform his job over the conflict in Bahrain. Islamist MP Khaled Al-Sultan meanwhile called on MPs to regulate the way grillings are submitted and conducted so as not to undermine this powerful constitutional tool. He pointed out that grillings should be submitted and debated in a regular manner, one by one, so they can have the desired impact on the government.

Anjari said that grillings are a constitutional right of MPs but wondered “if the National Assembly has become a puppet house” an indication that some of the grillings are being submitted by proxy. The lawmaker pointed to what some describe as the dilemma of the Kuwaiti democratic system - being in the middle between the presidency and parliamentary systems - an issue that has lead to continued crises. He recalled that a recent statement issued by the liberal National Democratic Alliance on the major disputes within the ruling family also highlighted the deficiency of the Kuwaiti democratic forum.

Spokesman of the Popular Action Bloc MP Musallam Al-Barrak said that the only solution for the country’s problems is the resignation of the government and the

formation of a new Cabinet with a new prime minister, charging that Prime Minister HH Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah has failed to lead the government. Barrak said a member of the Popular Bloc will speak in favour of the information minister’s grilling during the debate because the minister has failed to apply the law, although he accused the prime minister of preventing him from doing so.

The 13-page grilling submitted by MP Duwaisan is based on two issues - that the information minister ignored recommendations by the Audit Bureau that he should take action against ministry officials for committing financial and administrative irregularities and that he failed to perform his job in applying the law. The grilling charges that in a report submitted in September last year, the Audit Bureau called on the minister to take action against senior employees suspected of committing financial and administrative wrongdoings.

But the minister failed to carry out the recommendation as he kept those employees in their posts although he should have at least suspended them pending investigations, the grilling alleges. The Audit Bureau also asked the minister to cancel decisions transferring a number of employees to other posts and promoting others illegally but he ignored the recommendations, it said. The minister is accused of covering up an accusation that dozens of employees were receiving their salaries without attending to their duties.

The grilling alleges that Sheikh Ahmad, who is also the oil minister, has failed to perform his duties as an information minister by failing to apply the media law on private television and radio stations. He was also held responsible for Kuwait Television’s failure to announce a warning for the massive sandstorm that hit Kuwait on Friday, causing havoc and killing at least four people. The grilling alleges that the meteorological department informed Kuwait TV of the warning but it was never aired before the storm struck. MP Duwaisan also claimed that he sent a total of 73 questions to the minister several months ago and so far he has not answered any of them.

civilians in alliance with rebels he said were Al-Qaeda members. “Stop your brutal and unjust attack on our country ...

Hundreds of Libyans are being killed because of this bombardment. Massacres are being mercilessly committed against the Libyan people,” he said in a letter to world leaders. “We are a people united behind the leadership of the revolution, facing the terrorism of Al-Qaeda on the one hand and on the other hand terrorism by NATO, which now directly supports AlQaeda,” Libya’s official news agency quoted him as saying. The rebels deny any Al-Qaeda links and yesterday promised free and fair elections if Gaddafi is forced from power.

More than 40 governments and international organisations met in London yesterday to set up a steering group, including Arab states, to provide political guidance for the response to the war and coordinate long-term support to Libya. Both Britain and Italy suggested Gaddafi might be allowed to go into exile to bring a quick end to the six-week civil war, but the US ambassador to the United Nations Susan Rice said there was no evidence the Libyan leader was prepared to leave.

Clinton met the opposition Libyan National Council envoy Mahmoud Jebril before the London talks. A senior US official said the two could discuss releasing $33 billion in frozen Libyan assets to the opposition. Clinton said coalition military strikes would continue until Gaddafi fully complies with UN demands to cease violence against civilians and pull forces out of occupied cities. “All of us must continue to increase the pressure on and deepen the isolation of the Gaddafi regime through other means as well,” Clinton told the London conference. “This includes a unified front of political and diplomatic pressure that makes clear to Gaddafi that he must go.” — Reuters

caretaker until a new government was formed.

Protesters at first had limited their demands to greater freedoms. But, increasingly incensed by a security crackdown on them, especially in the southern city of Deraa where protests first erupted, they now call for the “downfall of the regime”.

The calls echo those sounded during the uprisings buffeting the Arab world that, since January, have toppled veteran autocratic presidents in Tunisia and Egypt and also motivate rebels fighting Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi. Syrian state television showed people in the Syrian capital Damascus and in Aleppo, Hama and Hasaka waving the national flag, pictures of Assad and chanting “God, Syria, Bashar”. “Breaking News: the conspiracy has failed!” declared one banner, echoing government accusations that foreign elements and armed gangs are behind the unrest. “With our blood and our souls we protect our national unity,” another said.

Employees and members of unions controlled by Assad’s Baath Party, which has been in power since a 1963 coup, said they had been ordered to attend the rallies, where there was a heavy presence of security police. All gatherings and demonstrations not sponsored by the state are banned in Syria, a country of 22 million at the sensitive heart of generations of Middle East conflict. Media organisations operate in Syria under restrictions. The government has expelled three Reuters journalists in recent days - its senior foreign correspondent in Damascus and then a two-man television crew who were detained for two days before being deported back to their home base in neighbouring Lebanon.

More than two hundred protesters gathered in Daraa chanting “God, Syria, and Freedom” and “O Hauran rise up in revolt”, a reference to the plateau where Daraa is located. Daraa is a centre of tribes belonging to Syria’s Sunni Muslim majority, many of whom resent the power and wealth amassed by the elite of the Alawite minority to which Assad belongs. Latakia, a religiously mixed port city, has also seen clashes, raising fears the unrest could take on sectarian tones.

The government has said Syria is the target of a project to sow sectarian strife. “If things go south in Syria,

bloodthirsty sectarian demons risk being unleashed and the entire region could be consumed in an orgy of violence,” wrote Patrick Seale, author of a book on late president Hafez al-Assad, Bashar’s father, on the Foreign Policy blog. Bordered by Iraq, Jordan, Turkey, Lebanon and Israel, Syria maintains a strong anti-Israeli position through its alliances with Shiite regional heavyweight Iran and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, as well as Palestinian Islamist militant group Hamas. It has also reasserted influence in smaller neighbour Lebanon.

Vice President Farouq Al-Shara said on Monday the 45-year-old president would give a speech in the next 48 hours that would “assure the people”. Last week Assad made a pledge to look into ending emergency laws, consider drafting laws on greater political and media freedom, and raise living standards. But the increasingly emboldened protesters have not been mollified. However Syrian officials, civic rights activists and diplomats doubt that Assad, who contained a Kurdish uprising in the north in 2004, would completely abolish emergency laws without replacing them with similar legislation.

Emergency laws have been used since 1963 to stifle political opposition, justify arbitrary arrest and give free rein to a pervasive security apparatus. Protesters want political prisoners freed, and to know the fate of tens of thousands who disappeared in the 1980s. The Britisheducated president was welcomed as a “reformer” when he replaced his father in 2000. He allowed a short-lived “Damascus Spring” in which he briefly tolerated political debates that openly criticised Syria’s autocratic rule, but later cracked down on critics.

In Daraa, demonstrators have destroyed a statue of Hafez Al-Assad, remembered for his intolerance of dissent. In 1982 he sent in troops to quell an armed uprising by the Muslim Brotherhood, killing thousands of people and razing part of the conservative city of Hama to the ground. Even Hama has been hit by the new protest wave and Assad had to deploy the army for the first time in Latakia, after clashes in which officials said at least 12 people had been killed last week.

Assad’s crackdown on protests. the likes of which would have been unthinkable two months ago in rigorously-controlled Syria, has drawn international condemnation. — Reuters

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S P ORT S Hamilton to watch brother race LONDON: McLaren’s Lewis Hamilton will make a 21,000-km round trip from Malaysia to Britain and back this weekend to watch his younger brother Nicolas make his racing debut at Brands Hatch. The 2008 Formula One world champion, runner-up in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on Sunday, told British reporters that he would be at the Renault Clio Cup race along with father Anthony.

He will then return to Malaysia for the grand prix at Sepang the following weekend. “I am the closest person to him but even I cannot comprehend what it must have been like to have the difficulties he has had,” said Hamilton of his 19-year-old brother, who has cerebral palsy. “I’m so proud of him. I’ll just head back to see his qualifying and race and then pop back out. “It’s cool. I will get to watch lots of movies on the plane.”

Anthony Hamilton, who is manager to Force India’s British rookie Paul di Resta, was also in Australia at the weekend. Meanwhile, Sauber will not appeal against their exclusion from Sunday’s Australian Grand Prix after an internal investigation showed they had made a mistake, the Formula One team said yesterday.

“We have since found that there was an error in the checking process for the relevant dimension on this component,” said technical director James Key in a statement. —Reuters

England rugby star held

Man Utd to face Barcelona LONDON: Manchester United will play Barcelona as part of a pre-season summer tour of the United States, it was confirmed yesterday.

United will play the Spanish giants in Washington on July 30 in the final game of a five-match tour which will see them play three Major League Soccer sides and an all-star match.

“Tours are a fantastic chance for the players to get away as a unit, to put in some good training sessions and to meet some of our fans around the world who don’t have a chance to watch us play live every week,” Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said.

“Our visits to the US are always enjoyable ones. The

training facilities are excellent and we certainly found last year that, with the improving quality of the MLS teams, the games are very competitive, which is great preparation for a new season. “ To finish off with a match against Barcelona will be a special moment for all our fans in the States.”

The Barcelona friendly will be a re -match of the 2009 Champions League final, when United were beaten in Rome by the La Liga outfit.

United’s tour begins against New England Revolution on July 13 before a tripl to play the Seattle Sounders a week later.

They then face Chicago Fire on July 23 before playing an MLS All-Stars team on July 27.—AFP

LONDON: England full-back Ben Foden was arrested after an altercation with a London taxi driver, it was confirmed yesterday.

Foden, 25, was detained on suspicion of causing criminal damage following his arrest in the early hours of Monday morning, police confirmed.

The Northampton player was released on bail on Monday afternoon after spending the night behind bars following the incident along with a friend.

Foden, who has become England’s first choice full-back since making his full debut during last season’s Six Nations, had been out on the town celebrating Northampton’s 39-3 Premiership victory over Wasps on Sunday.

The Rugby Football Union said it would await the outcome of the investigation before deciding if further disciplinary action against Foden would be taken.

“We are aware of the allegations but at the current time this is a matter for the player and his club and we are working with them to understand the facts of the situation,” an RFU spokesman said.

“We will wait to see the outcome of any police investigation before deciding if further action is required.” Northampton meanwhile said the club would co-operate with “all relevant authorities” in the investigation.

“Northampton Saints takes any such allegations very seriously and is conducting its own investigation to ascertain all the facts of the alleged incident,” the club said. —AFP

Phillies set to challenge Giants

JAPAN: In this photo taken Wednesday, March 23, 2011, high school players offer a silent prayer during the opening ceremony of the national high school baseball invitational tournament at Koshien Stadium. —AP

High school baseball unifies tsunami-hit Japan TOKYO: If Japan has a field of dreams, it’s a well-groomed patch of grass and dirt called Koshien. Twice a year, high school baseball teams compete at the field outside Kobe in nationally televised tournaments that rivet the country.

Last week, at the start of the spring tournament, a teen stood on a podium in front of home plate and made a speech watched by millions, with a dignity and conviction some Japanese find lacking in their leaders as the nation confronts its earthquake and tsunami calamity.

“We were born 16 years ago, in the year of the great Kobe earthquake,” said Shinsuke Noyama, a team captain chosen to represent players at the opening ceremony, his face grim and chest proud. “Today, in the great east Japan earthquake, many precious lives have been lost, and our souls are filled with sorrow.”

Baseball, long popular in Japan, rallied the country after World War II, providing welcome distraction while serving as a symbol of the cooperation, hard work, and selfsacrifice needed to rebuild the devastated land. It could be expected to play a similar role in the latest calamity, but an ugly squabble over whether to postpone opening day has smeared the image of the professional game.

Not only that, Japan’s tradition-steeped national sport, sumo, is in disgrace over a match-fixing scandal, its spring tournament canceled in an unprecedented act of contrition. Now the nation is turning elsewhere for a glimmer of hope: fresh-faced adolescents who play their hearts out on the baseball field with a seriousness and integrity sometimes missing from their pro heroes.

Hours after Noyama spoke, his team crashed out in the first round. But his speech, made against a backdrop of teams lined up like squadrons on the diamond, was played over and over on national TV, even into the morning of the next day.

“It was much more beautiful than some mediocre politician’s speech, this 16-yearold youngster performing so magnificently, with that booming voice,” said Akira Kawaii, a children’s story writer walking toward Tokyo’s Shimbashi train station.

“Pro ball is all about money, high school baseball is about passion.” To put Japan’s love of high school baseball in perspective, it generates the same kind of excitement as “March Madness,” the ongoing college basketball championships in the United States.

It’s a reaffirmation of values and identity, an occasion for national bonding, and an expression of nostalgia for the purity and vigor of youth.

To be sure, high school baseball is a big deal for reasons other than national identity: Big bucks are at stake with hawk-eyed scouts looking for hot prospects. Hideki Matsui, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Ichiro Suzuki — all now playing in the American professional leagues — first became household names in Japan after memorable performances in high school.

But in Japanese high school baseball, losers attract almost as much attention as winners, and even the no-hopes garner a big chunk of the televised commentary. Fans are touched to see these youths giving their all, with the same palpable sense of purpose, even when they’re losing 11-0 in the eighth inning.

The teenage players have at least momentarily taken over the unifying role that the pros carried out after the war.

During the opening ceremony, the Tohoku High School team — based in tsunami-ravaged Miyagi prefecture — marched onto the field carrying the school banner to a wave of emotional applause.

“The tournament shows you can make sports speak to the needs even of a tragic moment,” said William Kelly, a Japan scholar at Yale University. “And professional baseball shows how you can also lose that opportunity.” The discord that has rocked Japan’s two professional leagues at a time the country needs unity has shocked the country.

The more powerful Central League balked at postponing its season out of respect for disaster victims, and its Yomiuri Giants — Japan’s most popular team — insisted it would hold electricity-guzzling night games at a time many families are eating dinner by candlelight because of rolling blackouts.

Fans were outraged. Players hinted at a possible boycott. And the government pressured the Central League to reconsider.

The Giants, widely viewed as holding disproportional clout in baseball decisionmaking, were singled out for accusations of greed and heavy-handedness.

“Are these the circumstances where we should be doing this?” fumed Senichi Hoshino, the charismatic former manager of the Hanshin Tigers, who play at Koshien and are the chief rival of the Tokyo-based Giants. Early last week, the Central League agreed to postpone the season’s start to March 29, and the Giants said they would play more day games and conserve energy during night games. On Thursday, the league caved in completely, postponing its season to April 12 in line with the Pacific League. But the damage has been done.

“These are very unseemly debates,” said Yale’s Kelly. “Baseball has struck out.” In contrast, the high school players have struck a strong chord. The tournament coincides with another important ritual of youth: school graduation, which in Japan comes in early spring.

TV viewers saw images of baseball heroics on the tournament’s opening day set against scenes of junior high students bowing deeply as they received diplomas in Kesennuma _ a pulverized town in Miyagi prefecture — then breaking down in tears and hugging each other. “Making the effort, self-sacrifice, taking care of the next guy, all that’s wrapped up into one package, and it’s symbolized by high school baseball,” said Robert Whiting, author of “You Gotta have Wa,” a book on the culture clashes faced by Americans playing for Japanese teams.

“It has this purity toward life and sports that professional baseball with its emphasis on making money doesn’t.” Japan’s approach to baseball differs vastly from the more individualistic United States. It’s about the collective good and honing the spirit in a way akin to a martial art. Whiting likes to point out that if you’re hit in the face by a ball in school baseball practice, it’s forbidden to say “it hurts.” It is, however, permissible to say “it itches.” In a game at the tournament last week, catcher Takahiro Suzuki lost two front teeth when a wild throw hit him in the face. He left the field for treatment, then came back minutes later to guide his pitcher to the last two outs. The next inning, his lips swollen and the gap in his mouth red with blood, he hit a double that scored the game-winning run. —AP

LOS ANGELES: Look for pitching prowess to again define baseball’s powers in 2011, with Philadelphia’s stockpile of arms ready to challenge San Francisco’s pursuit of a second straight World Series title.

Ace Cliff Lee spurned lucrative offers to either stay with the Texas Rangers or move to the storied New York Yankees in order to join a Phillies rotation that already included Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels.

Philadelphia’s top four starters have three Cy Young Awards, 13 Major League Baseball all-star game appearances, two National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player awards, one perfect game and one playoff no-hitter to their combined credit.

As San Francisco ace Tim Lincecum-who anchors an impressive rotation that took the Giants to their first World Series title in 56 years last season put it: “I would think most people would think that’s the team to go through.”

Even so, Lincecum wasn’t conceding anything just yet. “We’ll just have to wait until we see them again.” Philadelphia’s progress could be slowed by a spring training injury to slugger Chase Utley. In his absence, the Phillies will need Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard to step up on offense.

The Phillies are certainly the favorites in a NL East division in which the New York Mets have been limited by financial woes and the Atlanta Braves will try to make a smooth transition from the two-decade tenure of manager Bobby Cox to the new era of his hand-picked successor, Fredi Gonzalez.

In an NL West division where the Giants are targets, the Colorado Rockies boast an athletic line-up, while the Los Angeles Dodgers will be hoping the arrival of new manager Don Mattingly will wake up an underachieving team.

While reigning American League champions Texas couldn’t hang on to Lee, they did keep AL most valuable player Josh Hamilton, who led the major leagues with a .359 batting average in 2010 with 32 home runs and 100 runs batted in (RBI) despite missing a month with broken ribs.

The Rangers, who reached the World Series for the first time in their half-century history, will again rely on a powerful attack. They outscored the Oakland Athletics and Los Angeles Angels by more than 100 runs last season, and have bolstered their lineup with the addition of Adrian Beltre.

However, any AL conversation must still be dom-

FLORIDA: Philadelphia Philliesí Ben Francisco (right) celebrates with Ross Gload (7) after hitting a three-run home run in the fifth inning of a spring training baseball game off Houston Astros pitcher Bud Norris. —AP inated by those familiar powers the Yankees and the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox have bolstered their lineup with the acquisition of first baseman Adrian Gonzalez and outfielder Carl Crawford-a four-time all-star who batted .307 with 19 homers and 90 RBIs for Tampa Bay last season.

The Yankees’ talent-packed lineup returns after leading the major leagues in runs and on-base percentage last season, and could be even better.

Third baseman Alex Rodriguez is fitter and shortstop Derek Jeter has made some adjustments to his batting style.

The perennial dominance of the big-spending Yankees and the Red Sox can be dispiriting to AL rivals. That may have accounted for Baltimore manager Buck Showalter’s comments criticizing Jeter

and Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein quoted in a magazine article in March.

“Maybe it is envy or something on my part,” Showalter said after the flap, adding that he had respect for both Jeter and the Yankees and the Red Sox. “Hopefully, we can get to their level one day.”

That’s a goal that plenty of AL teams no doubt hold as they try to make the most of their lesser dollars.

Once again, baseball goes into the season with a whiff of doping on the air. As the Giants launch their World Series title defense, former San Francisco great Barry Bonds, US baseball’s home run king, will likely still be in court in his perjury trial stemming from charges he lied to a grand jury when he said he never knowingly used performance enhancing drugs. —AFP

Ducks get past Avalanche

DETROIT: Red Wings goalie Joey MacDonald (31) stops a Chicago Blackhawks right wing Patrick Kane (88) shot in the second period of an NHL hockey game. —AP

NHL results/standings NHL standings on Monday Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L OTL GF *Philadelphia 45 20 10 238 *Pittsburgh 45 23 8 218 NY Rangers 41 30 5 218 New Jersey 34 36 5 155 NY Islanders 29 35 12 210

GA PTS 200 100 183 98 181 87 189 73 241 70

Detroit Nashville Chicago St. Louis Columbus

Western Conference Central Division 44 22 10 244 41 25 10 202 41 26 8 242 34 32 9 212 33 31 11 200

*Boston Montreal Buffalo Toronto Ottawa

Northeast Division 42 23 10 226 40 29 7 200 38 28 9 222 34 32 10 201 29 37 10 175

178 196 210 232 233

94 87 85 78 68

*Vancouver Calgary Minnesota Colorado Edmonton

Northwest Division 50 17 9 247 38 28 11 235 35 32 8 188 28 39 8 211 23 41 11 180

*Washington Tampa Bay Carolina Atlanta Florida

Southeast Division 44 22 10 205 40 24 11 223 35 30 10 211 32 31 12 210 29 36 11 185

182 228 224 246 209

98 91 80 76 69

San Jose Phoenix Los Angeles Anaheim Dallas

Pacific Division 44 23 9 224 41 25 11 219 43 26 6 207 43 28 5 219 38 26 10 208

216 179 206 219 230

175 109 226 87 213 78 267 64 249 57

199 212 181 221 210

98 92 90 77 77

97 93 92 91 86

Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point in the standings and are not included in the loss column (L)

ANAHEIM: Teemu Selanne had three goals and two assists, and rookie Cam Fowler scored the tiebreaking power-play goal early in the third period as the Anaheim Ducks beat the Colorado Avalanche 5-4 Monday for their eighth victory in 10 games.

Selanne scored his first penalty-shot goal in 18 years during Anaheim’s three-goal second period before completing his 22nd career hat trick on a power play with 4:49 to play.

The 40-year-old Finnish Flash had his ninth career five-point game for the surging Ducks, who stayed one point in front of defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago for seventh place in the West.

Ryan O’Reilly, Matt Duchene, David Jones and Paul Stastny scored for the Avalanche, who have lost 23 of 26 since late January.

Jason Blake also scored and Ray Emery made 31 saves for the Ducks. Selanne is the fourth NHL player in his 40s to get a hat trick, his 13th with Anaheim and his first since Oct. 29, 2008.

Blackhawks 3, Red Wings 2 At Detroit, Marian Hossa scored from a power play 51 seconds into overtime to lift Chicago to a win over Detroit.

Henrik Zetterberg was called for hooking Patrick Kane with 3.7 seconds left, putting Chicago on the power play to begin the extra session. The Blackhawks took advantage on Hossa’s shot from the left circle — his first goal against Detroit as an ex-Red Wing — off a pass from Kane.

The defending Stanley Cup champions improved their precarious playoff positioning with their third win in four games. They began the night in eighth place, barely ahead of idle Calgary and Dallas and one point behind Anaheim, which hosted Colorado late Monday.

Jonathan Toews and Brent Seabrook scored in the first period to give Chicago a 2-1 lead that held up until Danny Cleary was credited with a goal early in the third. Zetterberg appeared to score the second tying goal of the game on a shot that went off Chicago defenseman Chris Campoli.

Detroit’s Nicklas Lidstrom made it 1-1 in the first period and became the NHL’s first 40-year-old defenseman with 60 points in a season. —AP

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Knicks top Magic in OT NEW YORK: Carmelo Anthony scored 39 points, his best effort since coming to New York, as the Knicks pulled out a 113-106 overtime victory over the Orlando Magic on Monday to snap a six-game losing streak.

Hours after saying the game was “almost a must win” for the Knicks, Anthony added 10 rebounds, and the Knicks got some help when Dwight Howard fouled out in the extra session, then picked up his NBA-leading 17th technical foul.

Amare Stoudemire had 20 points for the Knicks, who won for just the second time in 11 games and inched closer to their first playoff berth since 2004. Howard rebounded from a quiet first half to finish with 29 points and 18 rebounds.

Al-Ahli Bank

Al-Ahli Bank win Bowling Doubles KUWAIT: Al-Ahli bank was recently crowned as the winner of the doubles competition in this year’s Kuwait Banks Bowling Tournament that is organized by the Kuwait Banks Club at the Cozmo Bowling Hall.

Al-Ahli’s victory came after finishing first ahead of 27 other teams with a total of 1315 points, followed by the Central Bank of Kuwait with 1198 points, and the National Bank of Kuwait with 1151 points.

Khalil Al-Blushi, head of the KBC’s sports commission, congratulated the winning teams on behalf of KBC chairman and board of directors.

He also noted that the tournament still includes the masters, women’s and teams competitions.

Khalil Al-Blushi

The Central Bank of Kuwait

76ers 97, Bulls 85 At Chicago, Thaddeus Young scored 21 points as Philadelphia built a 23-point lead and held on to beat Chicago and end a 14game home winning streak. Chicago, losing for only the second time in its last 14 games overall, got 31 points from Derrick Rose, who also had 10 turnovers.

The Bulls still own the best record in the East, leading by two games over the Celtics and Heat. Boston lost to Indiana on Monday night and Miami was idle. Andre Iguodala added 19 points and seven assists for the 76ers. Carlos Boozer scored 15 points for the Bulls, and Joakim Noah had 10 points and 13 rebounds.

Bobcats 87, Bucks 86 At Charlotte, North Carolina, Gerald Henderson scored the final seven points, including the go-ahead jumper with 22 seconds left, as Charlotte staged an unlikely comeback to beat the mistake -prone Milwaukee.

Starting with no available centers before losing their top two point guards to injuries, the Bobcats remained in playoff contention after Brandon Jennings missed two layups and a 3-pointer in the final 15 seconds that would have put the Bucks ahead.

Stephen Jackson scored 18 points for the Bobcats, who held Milwaukee scoreless over the final 3:52. Jennings and Andrew Bogut had 26 points apiece for the Bucks.

Pacers 107, Celtics 100 At Indianapolis, Roy Hibbert scored 26 points as Indiana beat Boston to remain in sole possession of eighth place in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Boston point guard Rajon Rondo started after missing Sunday ’s game against Minnesota with a jammed finger on his right hand.

Coach Doc Rivers said before the game that Rondo would not play, but Rondo scored 10 points in the first 5:10 and finished with 22 points and eight assists. Paul Pierce led Boston with 23 points, and Glen Davis added 20 for the Celtics, who are fading in their quest to catch Chicago for the best record in the East.

NEW YORK: Knicks’ Carmelo Anthony (right) and Orlando Magic guard Jason Richardson battle for control of the ball during overtime of an NBA basketball game. — AP

NBA results/standings NBA results and standings on Monday.

Indiana 107, Boston 100; Charlotte 87, Milwaukee 86; NY Knicks 113, Orlando 106 (OT ); Philadelphia 97, Chicago 85; Portland 100, San Antonio 92; Washington 100, Utah 95 (OT).

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L PCT *Boston 51 22 .699 Philadelphia 38 36 .514 NY Knicks 36 38 .486 New Jersey 23 49 .319 Toronto 20 53 .274 Central Division *Chicago 53 20 .726 Indiana 33 42 .440 Milwaukee 29 44 .397 Detroit 26 47 .356 Cleveland 14 58 .194 Southeast Division *Miami 51 22 .699 *Orlando 47 27 .635 *Atlanta 42 32 .568 Charlotte 31 42 .425 Washington 18 55 .247

GB 13.5 15.5 27.5 31 21 24 27 38.5 4.5 9.5 20 33

T Blazers 100, Spurs 92 At San Antonio, Andre Miller scored 26 points as Portland beat San Antonio whiles Tony Parker, Manu Ginobili and Tim Duncan sat out with injuries. The Blazers beat the NBA’s most successful team for the second time in three days, this time with four San Antonio starters sidelined. Gerald Wallace added 14 points for Portland and hit a crucial 3-pointer with 2:02 left, finishing a quick 7-0 burst that put the Blazers ahead. George Hill had 27 points for the Spurs, who have lost four in row, their longest slide this season.

Western Conference Northwest Division *Oklahoma City 48 24 .667 Denver 44 29 .603 Portland 43 31 .581 Utah 36 39 .480 Minnesota 17 57 .230 Pacific Division *LA Lakers 53 20 .726 Phoenix 36 36 .500 Golden State 32 42 .432 LA Clippers 29 45 .392 Sacramento 20 52 .278 Southwest Division *San Antonio 57 17 .770 *Dallas 52 21 .712 New Orleans 42 32 .568 Memphis 41 33 .554 Houston 38 35 .521 (* = clinched playoff berth)

4.5 6 13.5 32 16.5 21.5 24.5 32.5 4.5 15 16 18.5

Wizards 100, Jazz 95 At Salt Lake City, rookie John Wall scored 28 points, and Jordan Crawford hit a key shot at the end of regulation and then made two steals in overtime to lead Washington to only its second road win. Crawford finished with 25 points, including eight in the fourth quarter and the tying shot with 4.4 seconds left in regulation.

Maurice Evans scored seven of his 12 points in overtime for the Wizards, who were without five players because of injury. CJ Miles led the Jazz with 17 points but he made only 3 of 12 from 3point range. — AP

Tour life more than just a dance for Petkovic

The National Bank of Kuwait

Kirchner returns for Bulls, Brussow blow for Cheetahs JOHANNESBURG: South Africa fullback Zane Kirchner was selected in the Bulls squad for the four-match Super 15 tour of New Zealand and Australia Monday after recovering from a shoulder injury.

Kirchner is in the defending champions’ 26-man traveling group for games against the Wellington Hurricanes, Canterbury Crusaders, Queensland Reds and Western Force. The squad will depart South Africa late yesterday.

Springboks flanker Heinrich Brussow is heading in the other direction, however, after the Cheetahs confirmed he would return home with a rib injury from Saturday’s 41-8 defeat to the Reds in Brisbane.

The Cheetahs say Brussow will miss at least three weeks. The dynamic loose forward had only just returned to action after a year on the sidelines with a knee problem. Kirchner is a boost for the Bulls after an unsteady start to their title defense, where they lost their first two home games.

The Pretoria team also has to do without prop Gurthro Steenkamp, South Africa’s 2010 player of the year, who was ruled out for six weeks after fracturing his arm in the loss to the Stormers on March 19.

Kirchner joins a strong squad, despite the absence of Steenkamp, having missed Saturday’s 30-23 win over the Lions — the Bulls’ first win in three matches. Brussow joins a lengthy injury list for Bloemfontein’s Cheetahs, who are also without flanker Juan Smith (Achilles), hooker Adriaan Strauss (hand), center Andries Strauss (groin), fullback Hennie Daniller (calf ) and winger Rayno Benjamin (hamstring) for their fourmatch Australasian trip. The Cheetahs face New Zealand’s Auckland Blues next.

Overall Super 15 leaders the Stormers have also been hit by injury, with fears flanker Pieter Louw will miss the rest of the competition.

Stormers coach Allister Coetzee told a South African radio station on Monday that Louw would need surgery on his knee and could be out for the entire Super 15.

Louw was injured in Saturday’s 51-16 home victory over the Western Force in Cape Town, which kept the Stormers’ record as the only unbeaten team in the competition. However, flanker and captain Schalk Burger and lock Rynhardt Elstadt are set to return for Saturday’s meeting with the fourth-place Sharks of Durban. — AP

LOS ANGELES: Aged just 23, Germany ’s Andrea Petkovic has already established herself as one of the most colourful, outgoing, unpredictable and introspective players on the WTA Tour. If that all sounds a little confusing and perhaps contradictory, then consider the evidence.

Bosnian-born Petkovic, a lover of literature and alternative rock music who describes herself as thoughtful and happy, has patented her own jig, the ‘Petko Dance’, to celebrate oncourt victories.

She is an erudite student of political systems who gained practical experience during a traineeship with the Hessian State Chancellery in Germany and is seriously considering a career in politics once her competitive tennis days are over.

An enthusiastic drummer and guitar player who is brutally honest about her own limited singing ability, Petkovic dreams of the day when she will own a record label and be able to help emerging musicians in her adopted country.

For the time being, though, the world number 23 is eager to rise into the top 10 in the rankings while fulfilling many of the targets set by her loyal German fans who, unfairly or not, often compare her to tennis great Steffi Graf.

“Steffi was always a big idol of mine and so just to be mentioned with her in the same sentence is such a huge honour,” Petkovic, smiling broadly, told Reuters in a recent interview.

“I never thought that such a great champion would ever possibly be compared to me. I know I am so far away from her.”

Petkovic conceded, however, that there were moments when the Graf comparisons in Germany became an unwelcome burden.

“In the beginning, I thought they (the fans) would realise that I am a totally different person,” she said. “Obviously they know I am not Steffi Graf but they do expect the same things from me.

“Whenever I have a good result, it’s always a comparison to Steffi. I am very ambitious and of course I want to do the best I can,” added the statuesque German, who claimed her first WTA singles title at Bad Gastein in 2009.

“But Steffi won that many grand slams and

achieved so many other things that I don’t think I can ever match her, so those comparisons can be a big problem for me.” In her own right, the 1.80-metre Petkovic has a great deal going for her in the tennis world.

She broke into the top 50 last year and reached the quarter-finals of a grand slam for the first time at the Australian Open in January, beating former champion Maria Sharapova along the way.

“This year, I want to break into the top 20 and my next goal is to be among the top 16 seeds, which makes life a little bit easier in the grand slams,” Petkovic said before letting out a full-throated laugh.

“Beyond that, I have my eyes on the top 10 but the most important thing is to keep improving your game because sometimes when you have a good run you start rushing for (ranking) points and more money and more points and then you start forgetting to improve.

“That’s what I want to avoid and that’s why I am trying to set my sights on improving my game more than the rankings.”

Petkovic, who was born in Tuzla, Bosnia, and now resides in Darmstadt, Germany, has become something of a cult figure in the women’s game because of her infamous ‘Petko Dance’. German musician Phil Fill has even paid tribute to it in a song.

The bottom-wiggling jig, which Petkovic performed regularly after match wins in

Australia earlier this year, is a popular attraction on YouTube but she says it is never done at the expense of her opponents.

“It’s my winning dance and I feel the fans are coming out to see that as well, not just to see me play,” said the fun-loving German. “I am just trying to entertain the fans as much as possible. It has nothing to do with my opponent.

“Most of the time I ask my opponent at the net if it’s okay for me to do the dance. Or if they leave the court immediately after the match, I wait until they have gone and then I do it.

“I would never try to humiliate them at all,” added Petkovic, who loves engaging her fans via the social network Twitter. “I would never do it in FedCups or when I feel that my opponent is injured. “For me, it’s just an expression of happiness. I hope I have the feeling to know when to do it and when not to do it.”

Petkovic, whose favourite authors are German writer and polymath Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Irish poet, dramatist and wit Oscar Wilde, looks forward to embracing the world of politics once she retires from tennis.

“Life isn’t only about taking but also giving and I am eager to take part in politics actively,” she said. “As long as I’m on the tennis court, this won’t be realistic but when I chuck away my racket one day, the time will come.” — Reuters

Philippine Open set for return to Asian Tour MANILA: The Philippine Open, Asia’s oldest national golf championship, will return to the Asian Tour schedule this season after a two-year absence at its traditional venue of Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.

The tournament, a domestic event in 2009 and 2010, will be played for the 95th time from May 12-15 and the country’s national golf association (NGAP) hopes its return to the Asian Tour will boost local talent. NGAP President Leandro R. Mendoza

said it would be an opportunity for local players to go head-to-head with the Tour’s best. “Through the Asian Tour sanction, it will also provide a direct route to stardom if one of our Filipino players triumph as the champion will receive a two-year winner’s exemption on the Asian Tour,” he said in a Tour statement yesterday. The $300,000 Philippine Open will be played at the newly renovated east course at Wack Wack. — Reuters

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Bosnia rejects FIFA statute Faces suspension SARAJEVO: The Bosnian football federation yesterday rejected a request from FIFA and UEFA to cut its three presidents to one, leaving the country facing a ban from international matches.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s federation reflects the political setup of the country and its ethnic division after the 1992-95 war. It consists of two associations: one a Bosnian Serb and another shared by Bosniaks and Bosnian Croats. Together they are headed by a threemember presidency, made up of a Bosniak, a Croat and a Serb. Just like in politics, the Bosnian Serbs do not agree with the concept of one president because they fear it might jeopardize their autonomy. All Bosnian Serb delegates and a number of Bosnian Croats voted against the change.

Bogdan Ceko, the head of the Bosnian Serb association told media after the meeting that he “does not feel personally responsible for this but we can talk about a collective responsibility.”

Bosnian Serbs base their refusal on the country’s constitution written in 1995 during peace negotiations in Dayton, Ohio. The peace agreement ended the Bosnian war but divided it along ethnic lines and pre-

scribed a three-member presidency for the country — a setup that has proven ineffective as all three have to agree in order to pass a decision.

The three-member presidency and other provisions of the Bosnian statute that did not conform to FIFA’s standards were tolerated for years because both FIFA and UEFA were aware of Bosnia’s political problems.

But in October last year, both agencies told Bosnia that 15 years after Dayton the transition period is over and that if the country does not conform to the rules by end of March, it will be suspended.

Back then, the Serbs said they won’t go change the current setup but that the three presidents can rotate as chairman every 16 months. A suspension would effectively punish those in Bosnia who voted for FIFA’s and UEFA’s rules and will reward those who voted against them because people in the Serb half of the country don’t even support Bosnia’s national team.

They view the national team of neighboring Serbia as their own, and would not be unhappy to see the Bosnian team suspended. “It’s hard. I’m taking this very hard,” said Muhidin Rascic, a Bosniak member of the federation’s executive board.

“Only I know how much of my life I have invested into all of this and now it’s gone.” Bosnia’s suspension from world football has to be confirmed by the emergency committees of FIFA and UEFA chaired by their respective presidents Sepp Blatter and Michel Platini.

Suspension from world football prevents a country’s national and club teams, and its referees, from taking part in international matches. Officials are also prevented from contributing to international football business, while funding from the world and European governing bodies is frozen.

If not solved in the next two months, the dispute could damage Bosnia’s promising prospects of qualifying for the 2012 European Championship.

Its next international qualifier is June 3 away to Romania, which it beat 2-1 in Zenica last Saturday.

Bosnia is scheduled to host Albania on June 7. The matches could still go ahead if Bosnia backs down and meets the demands of FIFA and UEFA. If the stand-off continues, Bosnia would lose the right to attend the FIFA Congress on June 1 in Zurich, where up to 208 national associations are scheduled to vote in the FIFA presidential election. — AP

SuperSport fancy chances against mighty Ahly JOHANNESBURG: The final episode in a three-part football mini-series between South Africa and Egypt takes place this weekend with SuperSport United and Al-Ahly vying for the lead role.

Ahly built a 2-0 first-leg advantage from an African Champions League second round tie in Cairo two weeks ago and several of their stars were in the team that lost an Africa Cup of Nations eliminator in Johannesburg last Saturday.

SuperSport coach Gavin Hunt insists his side can turn the tables at Peter Mokaba Stadium in northern city Polokwane despite the vastly superior pedigree of rivals who have the premier Pan-African club title a record six times.

“They may be favourites but we can send them packing by believing in ourselves. We were the better team in Cairo against ordinary opponents,” boasted the coach who has guided United to three consecutive league titles.

“The impression was created before the first leg that Ahly were invincible yet we dominated them in their backyard. We struck the woodwork twice and wasted several opportunities to grab a precious away goal.”

Goals from strikers Osama Hosny and Mauritanian Dominique da Silva won a first leg in which Ahly were far below their best owing to a two-month competitive lay-off because of the popular uprising against Hosni Mubarak.

That match and the Cup of Nations qualifier can only sharpen Ahly stars like defenders Wael Gomaa and Ahmed Fathi, midfielders Hossam Ghaly and icon Mohamed Aboutreika and striker Mohamed ‘Geddo’ Nagy.

SuperSport central defender Morgan Gould won the man-of-the-match award after helping South Africa defeat defending champions Egypt 1-0 and will need to be at his best as Ahly seek the away goal that would surely clinch the tie.

Zamalek, the great Cairo rivals of Ahly and the other Egyptian challengers this year for a 1.5-million-dollar first prize, must overcome a 4-2 deficit when they host Club Africain of Tunisia in a clash of former champions.

The first-leg goal fest was partly due to the rustiness of the adversaries with the overthrow of authoritarian ruler Zine El-Abidine Ben Ali in Tunisia leaving clubs there without competitive action for several months.

Defending champions TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo have created history by becoming the only club to twice successfully defend the title and now they have their sights on a record third title in a row. Patou Kabangu, Cameroonian Narcisse Ekanga and Dioko Kaluyituka scored in a 3-1 victory over Tanzanian visitors Simba, whose Ugandan striker Emmanuel Okwi snatched a late goal to keep the tie alive.—AFP

ECUADOR: Airborne Pablo Carreras of Argentina and his teammates celebrate a goal by Martin Benitez (bottom of pile) against Paraguay during a South American U-17 soccer match in Latacunga. — AP

Capello’s contract mixup WEMBLEY: Leaders of England’s Football Association criticized the body’s former chairman yesterday for removing an escape clause from coach Fabio Capello’s contract before the World Cup without consulting the board.

Former chairman David Triesman agreed to the amendment just before resigning after being caught in an unrelated newspaper sting into World Cup voting corruption. “I’ll hold my hands up on behalf of David Triesman and say, in hindsight, it was a whole board decision (to remove the clause) and should have gone to the whole board,” FA general secretary Alex Horne told a British parliamentary inquiry into football governance.

“It did not go to the whole board ... the decision has been reviewed internally and we hold our hands up to a corporate governance mistake.” England reached the second round at the World Cup but lost to eventual semifinalist Germany.

Had the clause been in place after the tournament, Capello or the FA would have been able to

activate a cut-price deal to terminate the coach’s four-year contract two years early. “Within that contract was a clause allowing either party to terminate for an amount of liquidated damages,” said Horne, who was acting chief executive at the time.

After the loss to Germany, many England fans wanted Capello to be fired. But after the contract amendment, that would likely have proved too costly for the FA. Capello’s contract is worth a reported 6 million pounds ($10 million) annually.

Horne defended the decision to retain Capello, but regretted how the initial contract decision was taken by Triesman and “four or five people” on the board. Horne said he was “not comfortable” with naming the others who were consulted. “David was the senior member involved as chairman of the association and clearly felt he had the authority to make that commitment,” Horne said. “It was only after he left that the board questioned the decision.” David Bernstein eventually replaced Triesman as chairman.—AP

China defeat Honduras in friendly BEIJING: China tuned up for the looming World Cup 2014 qualifiers by beating visiting Honduras 3-0 in Wuhan city yesterday, ending a run of three warm up games in five days with a one win, two tie record.

Unmarked midfielder Huang Bowen kicked off the scoring in the 17th minute taking a Hao Junmin cross from the byline and easily slotting home as the Honduran defenders looked on in horror.

China’s second came 20 minutes later when striker Yang Xu neatly placed a fine centered pass from Hao into the far corner of the net for a 2-0 lead.

Hao again got the assist for China’s third, centering a counter-attack cross onto the foot of a streaking Yang who netted the ball sweetly in the 86th minute.

China’s campaign for 2014 World Cup qualifying began bizarrely after the team was divided into two squads due to a scheduling conflict.

Squad A played to a 1-1 draw with New Zealand in Wuhan on Friday, while Team B drew with Costa Rica 2-2 in San Jose on Sunday.

Although coach Gao Hongbo missed the New Zealand match, he was at his post with Team B in Costa Rica and hurried to Wuhan to coach Squad A in yesterday ’s game. New Zealand, Costa Rica and Honduras all rank higher than China in FIFA world rankings.

The two squads have been selected after Gao invited a total of 40 players to train for the national side ahead of World Cup 2014 qualifying, which begins in late June.

In China’s first and only appearance in a World Cup final tournament in 2002, the team failed to win a match or even score at the event, jointly hosted by Japan and South Korea.

Their failure to reach the knockout stages of the 2011 Asian Cup in Doha two months ago further deepened fan frustration over the inability of the world’s most populous nation to succeed in the world’s most popular sport.

Gao, 45, the youngest person to coach China’s national team, was tasked with qualifying for Brazil 2014 when he took the helm in May 2009. He has overseen a steady rise up the FIFA world rankings from 108 to a current position of 76. — AFP

English FA: Clubs should open up finances to fans WEMBLEY: The head of the English football association told a parliamentary inquiry yesterday that it is “unacceptable” for clubs not to disclose full information about their finances and ownership to supporters.

Manchester United fans are unhappy about the lack of transparency from the owning Glazer family about how they paid off around 220 million pounds ($342 million) of high-interest debt used to fund their leveraged 2005 takeover.

And United Chief Executive David Gill told an earlier session of a British parliamentary hearing into English football that the club would not “open a dialogue” with fans “at war with the owners.”

But David Bernstein, the chairman of The Football Association, told yesterday ’s session of the inquiry that such a stance is unac-

ceptable “Supporters are entitled to full information from their clubs and proper dialogue about ownership ... and finances,” Bernstein told legislators discussing the general situation.

“They are the key stakeholders and there should be a free flow of information between clubs and supporters, anything less is unacceptable.” Second-tier club Leeds has also refused to name its financial backers, who have rescued a club that came to the brink of collapse after overspending as it reached the Champions League semifinals in 2001.

“I think supporters should know who owns all clubs,” Bernstein said when asked about Leeds. The existing rules don’t allow the FA to be transparent about the ownership of Premier League or Football League clubs.

But Bernstein and FA General

Secretary Alex Horne, who have both been appointed in the last year, will meet both those bodies to discuss the situation Horne said they want to “reset the architecture.”

Discussing debt at clubs, Bernstein said English football could benefit from the wider implementation of UEFA’s financial fair play rules, which are designed to curb clubs’ spending on buying and paying players.

Clubs wanting to play in the UEFA competitions are required to break even starting in the 2011-12 season. Persistent loss-makers can first be barred from the 2014-15 Champions League or Europa League.

“I would like to see financial fair play potentially extended across the rest of the Premier League and possibly the Football League as well,” Bernstein said. —AP

Confederation Cup

Early test for African giants Kabylie JOHANNESBURG: African giants JS Kabylie of Algeria face an unexpectedly early examination of their power when the Confederation Cup second round qualifiers continue this weekend.

Goals were expected to flow when the ‘Canaries’ from eastern town Tizi-Ouzou hosted little known Mauritanians Tevragh Zeina, but all they could manage was one from Chemseddine Nessakh.

A second leg defeat in Nouakchott would constitute one of the biggest shocks since the secondtier African club competition was launched seven years ago and leave Algeria without a contendor as CA Batna tumbled at the first hurdle.

African rookies Tevragh have already sprung one surprise by eliminating AS Real of Mali thanks to a Ely Cheikh Ould Voulani goal in Bamako following a goalless first encounter.

Kabylie won the elite African Champions League twice and the CAF Cup-forerunner of the

Confederation Cup-a record three consecutive times and have also claimed countless domestic and regional titles.

The North Africans had Democratic Republic of Congo side TP Mazembe against the ropes in the Champions League semi-finals last year only to leak two late goals and could not undo the damage in the return encounter.

There are two other former African champions among the 32 contenders for a 660,000-dollar first prize and Etoile Sahel of Tunisia and Ismailia of Egypt are better placed than Kabylie.

A second-half brace from Brazilian midfielder Danilo Petroli secured a 3-0 victory for 2007 winners Etoile over AshantiGold of Ghana in Mediterranean resort Sousse and the ‘Red Devils’ look set for the last-16 round.

Ismailia zoomed into overdrive against Kenyan visitors Sofapaka with early goals from Mohamed Abougreisha and national team

midfield star Hosny Abd Rabou, then a lack of match practice told and there was no further scoring.

Sofapaka have not found the net in three Confederation Cup matches this year and this suggests the East Africans will struggle to breach a traditionally well organised defence backed by Egypt reserve goalkeeper Mohamed Sobhi.

Title holders FUS Rabat of Morocco mocked the form book last December by defeating two-time Cup winners CS Sfaxien in Tunisia to capture the trophy and a 2-0 home win over Toure Kounda of Senegal should ensure they progress.

Fellow Moroccan teams are less well placed with Moghreb Fes travelling to Niger after being held 0-0

by Sahel while Difaa al-Jadida need goals following a 2-0 loss to Olympique Beja in Tunisia.

The ties involving Al-Nasr of Libya and Africa Sports of Ivory Coast have been reduced to a single match in the country of their opponents for security reasons. — AFP

COLOMBIA: Cucuta Deportivo soccer fans hold up a coffin allegedly containing the remains of 17-year-old Cristopher Jacome, during a soccer match against Envigado. Jacome, who was recently murdered while playing soccer at a local park was a lifelong fan. — AP

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

S P ORT S

Fans give Murali final standing ovation COLOMBO: Tens of thousands of Sri Lankan fans yesterday gave their hero Muttiah Muralitharan a final standing ovation after the home team reached the World Cup final by beating New Zealand. Muralitharan, 38, playing his last match on home turf, will retire on Saturday after the final in Mumbai, having played in four World Cups.

Fireworks were set-off at the R. Premadasa stadium-even before the end of the game-and

screaming fans cheered as an emotional Muralitharan enjoyed a lap of honour.

Record-breaking off-spinner Muralitharan earlier celebrated his last ball in international cricket at home with a wicket. He had New Zealand’s Scott Styris lbw off the final ball of his 10th over to finish with 2-42 after earlier dismissing Jesse Ryder for 19. He took his total to 534 wickets in 349 matches to add to his 800 Test wickets-another world

record. Fans went wild waving placards of good wishes saying “thank you Murali”, “you’ve done a great job Murali” and “Murali, we are so proud of you” as the wily spin wizard waved his blue cap to cheering spectators.

Muralitharan had been doubtful because of injury for Tuesday’s game and said on the morning of the semi-final that he wouldn’t feel any pressure from his last home game. — AFP

Group A: Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Canada, Kenya Group B: Bangladesh, England, India, South Africa, West Indies, Ireland, Netherlands

Sri Lanka reach final Scoreboard COLOMBO: Complete scoreboard of the World Cup semi-final between Sri Lanka and New Zealand at R. Premadasa stadium on yesterday: New Zealand M. Guptill b Malinga 39 13 B. McCullum b Herath J. Ryder c Sangakkara b Muralitharan 19 R. Taylor c Tharanga b Mendis 36 S. Styris lbw b Muralitharan 57 K. Williamson lbw b Malinga 22 N. McCullum c Sangakkara b Malinga 9 J. Oram c Jayawardene b Dilshan 7 D. Vettori not out 3 T. Southee c Sangakkara b Mendis 0 A. McKay b Mendis 0 Extras: (lb5, nb1, w6) 12 Total: (all out; 48.5 overs) 217 Fall of wickets: 1-32 (B. McCullum), 2-69 (Ryder), 3-84 (Guptill), 4-161 (Taylor), 5-192 (Williamson), 6-204 (N. McCullum), 7-213 (Styris), 8-215 (Oram), 9-217 (Southee), 10-217 (McKay).

Bowling: Malinga 9-0-55-3 (nb1), Herath 9-1-311 (w1), Mathews 6-0-27-0, Mendis 9.5-0-35-3, Muralitharan 10-1-42-2 (w2), Dilshan 5-0-22-1 (w3).

Sri Lanka U. Tharanga c Ryder b Southee 30 73 T. Dilshan c Ryder b Southee K. Sangakkara c Styris b McKay 54 M. Jayawardene lbw b Vettori 1 T. Samaraweera not out 23 C. Silva b Southee 13 A. Mathews not out 14 Extras: (lb2, w10) 12 Total: (for five wkts; 47.5 overs) 220 Fall of wickets: 1-40 (Tharanga), 2-160 (Dilshan), 3-161 (Jayawardene), 4-169 (Sangakkara), 5-185 (Silva).

Bowling: N. McCullum 6-0-33-0 (w1), Southee 10-2-57-3 (w3), Vettori 10-0-36-1, Oram 8-1-29-0, McKay 9.5-1-37-1 (w6), Styris 2-0-12-0, Ryder 20-14-0.

Result: Sri Lanka won by five wickets

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka reached the World Cup final with a five-wicket win against New Zealand yesterday as veteran offspinner Muttiah Muralitharan said goodbye to his home crowd.

Sri Lanka, set a modest 218 to win, wobbled in the middle before reaching their target in 47.5 overs with Tillakaratne Dilshan (73) and skipper Kumar Sangakkara (54) setting the foundation at a packed R. Premadasa stadium.

Muralitharan took his 534th wicket off his last ball on home soil as New Zealand were bowled out for a below-par score of 217 in 48.5 overs.

Muralitharan, who last year retired from Tests after finishing as the highest wicket-taker with 800, now aims to win his second title-after being part of the 1996 Cup winning squad-in Saturday’s final in Mumbai. Sri Lanka, cruising along at 1601, lost four wickets in the space of 25 runs to raise fears of an unlikely defeat before Thilan Samaraweera (23 not out) and Angelo Mathews (14 not out) guided them home with an unbroken 35-run stand. The victory took Sri Lanka into their second successive World Cup final, after finishing runners-up to Australia in 2007, as a capacity 35,000 celebrated with firecrackers.

Sri Lanka play the winners of today’s semi-final between India and Pakistan in Mohali. New Zealand, who for the sixth time failed in a World Cup semi-final, seemed to be succumbing like England did during their 10-wicket quarter-final defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka, but they staged a brave rearguard action.

It was 34-year-old Dilshan who was once again in rampaging mood, taking the co-hosts to 40 by the eighth over in the company of Upul Tharanga who fell after scoring a 31-ball 30 with four boundaries and a six.

Dilshan then found an equally aggressive and in-form partner in captain Sangakkara as they added 120 for the second wicket, before Dilshan played straight

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s batsman Thilan Samaraweera (right) and Mahela Jayawardene (center) celebrate as Angelo Mathews looks on after they beat New Zealand by five-wickets in the Cricket World Cup semifinal match. —AP into the hands of Jesse Ryder off Tim Southee. Dilshan hit 10 boundaries and a six during his 93-ball knock. Sri Lanka then lost Mahela Jayawardene (one) and Sangakkara in the space of eight runs and then Chamara Silva (13) before the team held their nerve. Dilshan also became the top run-getter of the tournament with 467.

It was Ajantha Mendis (3-35) and Lasith Malinga (3-55), along with Muralitharan (242), who kept New Zealand under control after Daniel Vettori won the toss and opted to bat. Scott Styris, who top scored with 57, added 77 for the fourth wicket with Ross Taylor (36) but the Sri Lankan bowlers never allowed them to run away with a big

total, dismissing the Kiwis in 48.5 overs.

Styris and Kane Williamson (22) added 42 in the batting powerplay but New Zealand lost their last seven wickets for just 56 runs.

Sri Lanka once again dismissed hardhitting Brendon McCullum through a spinner when left-armer Rangana Herath bowled him in the eighth over for 13.

Martin Guptill (39) and Jesse Ryder (19) took the total to 69 before Muralitharan had the big left-hander caught off a quickish delivery. Soon it became 84-3 when Malinga bowled Guptill with a ferocious yorker after the opener had hit three boundaries off 65 balls. Styris hit five

boundaries during his 77-ball knock.

Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara dedicated yesterday’s five-wicket World Cup semi-final win over New Zealand to Muttiah Muralitharan who played his last home game before retirement.

Sangakkara said that when his team suffered a worrying wobble by losing four quick wickets chasing 218 to win, it was the thought of the 38-year-old playing in Saturday’s final which drove them on.

“It was the last game for Murali in Sri Lanka and we really wanted to give him a good send-off,” said Sangakkara of the offspinner who will retire after the tournament. —AFP

Ponting steps down as Australia captain

KARACHI: Pakistani cricket fans get their heads shaved and painted with the outline of the ICC World Cup trophy (right) and a Pakistani flag (left) in Karachi. —AP

Indo-Pak semi puts pressure on loyalties LUCKNOW: As the tension of the World Cup cricket semifinal

between archrivals India and Pakistan reaches fever pitch, hundreds of married women in India face the big dilemma of which team to support.

“I love India. But I also love Pakistan. I belong to both these countries,” says Farazan Siddiqui, a young Pakistani woman who moved to India after marrying an Indian man. “It’s a strange feeling when I am asked to choose between the two.”

Many Muslim families in India maintain strong links with their kin in Pakistan, a consequence of when the subcontinent was divided in 1947 after British colonial rule. Marriages continue to be arranged between families on either side of the border.

Lucknow, the capital of India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state, has a large Muslim population with close ties to Pakistan.

Farzana Farid, who married an Indian businessman and has lived in Lucknow since 2009, says she never thought that a cricket match could evoke such passion. Farid runs a boutique in the city and admits to being confused about which team to support.

“Just two years back I used to cheer for Pakistan.

“Some years ago I watched a cricket match against India at the Gaddafi stadium in Lahore and I jeered the Indian players. And now, I don’t know who to support,” says Farid looking at the floor, as her in-laws join her in friendly banter.

India and Pakistan will clash today in the northern Indian town of Mohali in Punjab state, which was divided in the partition.

But for some, India-Pakistan cricket matches are serious business and supporting the rival team can be dangerous. There was a report of an Indian woman married to a Pakistan-based businessman who was burnt to death for insisting that India was the better team despite losing a 1986 match to Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates. For the most part though, the banter is friendly.

“The jokes, the criticism, the teasing, doesn’t end with the match. It all continues for many more days post-match,” said Shagufta Bano, a housewife married to an Indian doctor in Lucknow. “But I’m not complaining. It’s great fun.” —AP

SYDNEY: Ricky Ponting, the most successful captain in 134 years of Test cricket, resigned as the Australian Test and one-day skipper yesterday but aims to continue playing the game at the highest level.

The 36-year-old had led Australia in one day internationals since 2002 and tests since 2004, a period encompassing his country’s absolute domination of world cricket and steady decline after the retirement of a golden generation of players.

With Cricket Australia under pressure to sack him in the wake of a home Ashes defeat to England and a quarter-final exit as defending champions at the World Cup this year, the tough Tasmanian decided to fall on his sword.

“I’ve had the chance to think long and hard about it and today I’ve decided to stand down as captain of the test team and the one-day team as of now,” he told a news conference at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

“I am really excited about the next chapter in my career... I think I’ve got a lot to offer as a player and certainly as a leader for some of the younger players around, if and when required.”

He will almost certainly be replaced by Michael Clarke today and said letting his successor have next month’s tour of Bangladesh to start putting his own imprint on the team was a key factor in the timing of his decision.

“I think the timing was absolutely perfect,” he said. “I wanted to make sure that the person coming in had as much time as possible to get themselves prepared and get their focus on where they want the team to go.”

Ponting denied he had jumped before he was pushed. “I’ll absolutely go on record here to say that I’ve had absolutely no tap on the shoulder,” he said. “This is a decision that’s been wholly and solely made by me and people close to me...”

Australia won 48 of 77 tests and 164 of 228 one day internationals, including two World Cups, under Ponting. No other captain has won as many games in either form.

Admired but rarely loved in Australia, Ponting admitted that his tenure as his country’s 42nd test captain would probably be remembered by some for the three Ashes series losses he oversaw.

“It’s funny how we talk about losing the Ashes series three times,” he said. “Playing on three World Cup winning teams doesn’t come up every often, winning 16 consecutive test matches doesn’t come up very much, winning 30-odd consecutive World Cup matches doesn’t come up very often.

“I know within myself... what I’ve achieved in the game and I’m very proud of it.” Cricket Australia said the new captain would be named today and Ponting gave strong backing to Clarke, who stood in for the injured captain in the final Ashes test and for the one-day series against England that followed.

“He’s done a terrific job in almost every game he’s captained Australia,” said Ponting. “I totally would endorse Michael Clarke as the next captain.”

Australia went to the World Cup looking for a fourth straight title but returned home after defeat to India in the last eight, their remarkable unbeaten run in the tournament having been ended at 34 matches by Pakistan in the group stage.

Ponting, whose reputation as one of the best batsman the game has ever seen is assured, bucked a poor run of form to hit a defiant century in the quarter-final defeat to India, increasing his determination to continue playing.

“I proved to myself the other day that I’ve still got what it takes to play a good international innings,” he said. “Now that I won’t have all the extra responsibility of the captaincy, I think I can turn myself into a better player than I’ve shown in the last six months.”

Cricket Australia chairman Jack Clarke said he looked forward to watching Ponting continue to bat for Australia.“Ricky Ponting has been an outstanding batsman, one of the best to wear the baggy green,” he said.

“His leadership as captain has been outstanding and I sometimes think his brilliance with the bat has overshadowed his fine work as captain.”

Ponting hopes to play in Bangladesh and on the test tours of Sri Lanka

and South Africa later in the year and said selectors should resist calls for a wholesale clear-out of players in their mid-30s.

“What I think you don’t and you can’t ever afford to have in the team is to have a mass exodus of all those sort of players at once,” he said.

“I think we’ve seen that in the last couple of years when we had a lot of the greats move on at one time. It left us very bare. It’s been hard for us to rebuild and get ourselves back to where we want to as a result of that.” —Reuters

AHMEDABAD: In this March 24, 2011 file photo, Australia’s captain Ricky Ponting reacts as he leaves the ground. —AP

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

S P ORT S

India shuts down for Indo-Pak showdown MUMBAI: India’s billion-strong population will be calling in sick to work, shutting shops early and even cancelling doctor’s appointments to make sure they watch today’s much-hyped World Cup semi-final match against arch rivals Pakistan.

Daily life will grind to a halt in cricket’s spiritual home as fans from all walks of life settle down to watch one of the sport’s most intense rivalries.

India’s Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Pakistani counterpart Yusuf Raza Gilani are among those scheduled to watch the encounter, along with

Bollywood celebrities and corporate czars.

“I might work till around 12 pm. After that my cab is probably going to break down,” Sham Kesh, a cab driver in Mumbai, told Reuters with a twinkle in his eye. “It’s a huge match, and I cannot afford to miss it even if it means not working. I doubt there will be many cabs on the roads tomorrow,” he said. The rest of the country is following suit.

On social networking site Facebook, more than 100,000 people voted a resounding “yes” to a poll on whether March 30th should be declared a national holi-

day in India, while another 40,000 said they were just going to “bunk” work. With productivity threatening to dip considerably, even the bosses have given in. Several firms are planning to declare a half-day holiday, while others have set up giant screens in their offices to allow employees to watch the match in the office.

“We’ll start earlier than normal and finish by midafternoon. We’ve also got a screen set up in our office so that everyone can watch it together,” Ashish Hemrajani, CEO of Bigtree Entertainment, a company that has around 70 employees in his Mumbai office alone, told

Reuters. A spokesman for Reliance Industries, India’s top listed firm, said employees would be allowed to watch the match in conference rooms.Even urgent matters such as an aching tooth are not motivation enough for true cricket fans to give up a chance to watch the match.

“We usually have a full calendar but this Wednesday, we’ve barely got two appointments pencilled in, and even they are women. Everyone else has asked to postpone their appointments so they can stay home,” Shraddha Gokhale, a dentist who works at a dental clinic in Central Mumbai said. —Reuters

Never mind the politics, cricket match with India grips Pakistan ISLAMABAD/KARACHI: Many of his countrymen are more interested in the game than in politics, but when Pakistan’s prime minister Yusuf Raza Gilani flies into India today to watch a cricket match between the two nations, he could also boost the fragile peace process.

Cricket-crazy Pakistanis are desperately waiting for today’s showdown with India in the northern Indian town of Mohali, where the two nations will battle it out for a place in the cricket World Cup final. And for many, victory against India is even more important than winning the tournament.

But the event could serve a wider purpose.

Billed “cricket diplomacy”, after Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh invited his Pakistani counterpart to watch the match, Singh’s invitation coincides with the tentative resumption of formal talks between the two nuclear-armed South Asian rivals.

But in a country obsessed with the game, many people insist that winning the match against a traditional rival is a more immediate concern than improving relations.

“Politics can be discussed later. It’s not time for politics. Our aim should be winning the game,” Mohammad Ajmal, a accountancy stu-

dent in one Islamabad college said.

He considers the India-Pakistan contest even more important than the World Cup final. “If our prime minister is going there, then it is good booster” for morale. Today’s match has dominated Pakistan’s media coverage, and the lives of many. In the country’s biggest city of Karachi, many private firms have announced a half-day today, so people can watch from the first ball of the afternoon match.

Civic bodies and the business community are putting up giant television screens in social clubs and open spaces so people can watch the match. In a Karachi prison, where 200 Indian prisoners are being held, authorities are planning to install a big screen for them to watch the match along with Pakistani inmates.

Cinemas in the major cities will stop screening movies and will show the match on the mega-screens. “We have five houses with a seating capacity for over 1,000 people. Tickets for all the five houses have been sold out four days ago,” Zeeshan Masih, an official with Cinepax cinema in Rawalpindi said. “There is huge excitement but we cannot accommodate huge crowds.”

Enthusiastic fans have bought thousands of replica Pakistani cricket T-shirts ahead of the show-down, and shopkeepers said they were running out of stock.

“I have already sold more than 3,000 shirts, and am still running short of supplies. There is a huge excitement for this match. I have never seen anything like this before,” said Salman Iqbal at the Lords Sports shop in Karachi’s upmarket Clifton area.

Muslim clerics have led special prayers for success in mosques and Islamic seminariessuccess that would also bring personal rewards for the Pakistan cricket team.

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has announced a gift of 25 acres of land to each member of Pakistan squad if they beat India.

On Monday night, Gilani called Pakistani skipper Shahid Afridi to wish him luck and convey “the sentiments and prayers of the whole nation for the success of the team”.

“Irrespective of the result of the match the team should demonstrate the best of sportsmanship and dedication to contest,” Gilani’s office said in a statement. Sadia Khursheed, a student echoed similar sentiments. “Let’s not mix it with politics ... It’s just a game, not a battle of religions or anything else.” —AP

GAUHATI: A cricket fan gets his face painted with the colors of the Pakistan and Indian national flags ahead of the ICC World Cup semifinal match. —AP

Close games add to cricket fervor MOHALI: Delhi businessman Rajan Chhabra is patting himself on the back, having had the forethought to procure tickets for today’s World Cup semifinal even before India had qualified to meet Pakistan.

With tickets sold out last week, and reportedly going for 100 times face value on the black market, he now considers himself lucky to get “the chance of a lifetime” to watch how the intense rivalry unfolds in the Indo-Pak match.

Chhabra is among the thousands of people streaming into the city as security personnel take charge, barricading the road in front of the stadium a day ahead of the game. The fervor, though, is not only because of the hype created by politicians, sponsors or the media, but due to the thrill of tight India-Pakistan contests.

Games between the two countries have created heroes in some instances, but also earned a lifetime of ridicule in a matter of moments for others.

The most famous of all is the last-ball six by Pakistan’s Javed Miandad off Indian pace bowler Chetan Sharma at the Australasia Cup in Sharjah. That one stroke changed the course of matches, as India started losing to Pakistan regularly in one-day games.

Sharma went on to take a hat-trick in the 1987 World Cup but could never bury the bogey of that low full toss. Though Pakistan has never beaten India in a world level tournament, including in four meetings in the World Cup, it enjoyed an era of domination in a period in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Toward the end of that period, Waqar Younis and Saqlain Mushtaq once added 43 runs for the unbroken ninth wicket to ensure another last-ball victory at Brisbane in a limited-overs series in Australia.

Playing under pressure is a given in any IndiaPakistan match, though India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said Tuesday his team was not wor-

ried too much. “The hype or pressure does not help us perform,” Dhoni told reporters immediately after the team bus made its way into the stadium past hundreds of supporters.

“At the end of the day, there will only be one winner.” India has looked a more solid lineup in recent seasons, but has also won several close matches in the past. Two years before that knock from Miandad, India put up the sort of performance that had helped it win the 1983 World Cup by beating the West Indies.

India was bowled out for 125 in a fournation tournament at Sharjah with Imran Khan snaring 6-14. But Kapil Dev took three wickets and was backed by spinners Ravi Shastri and Lakshman Sivaramakrishnan as Pakistan was shot out for a meager 87 in a dramatic turnaround.

In 1997, when scores of over 300 were not so common, India once overhauled Pakistan’s total of 314-5 with a ball to spare in the final of the

Independence Cup at Dhaka. Young Hrishikesh Kanitkar became a hero as he dispatched a delivery from off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq for four to help India complete a three-wicket win in fading light. Mushtaq was also at the receiving end of a last-over six from lower-order batsman Rajesh Chauhan the same year in a onedayer at Karachi.

Most recently, Harbhajan Singh smashed a last-over six in at the Asia Cup in Dambulla last year, which resulted in a mini altercation with Shoaib Akhtar.

The tight finishes in limited-overs cricket haven’t been restricted to the 50-over format, either. At the Twenty20 world championship in 2007, India edged out Pakistan in a ‘bowl over’ after the league match ended in a tie at Durban, and also won the final in dramatic fashion with Misbah-ul-Haq scooping the ball from Joginder Sharma straight to Shantakumaran Sreesanth when Pakistan looked all but home. —AP

Soccer

10-man Peru hold Ecuador Advincula’s shot, tipped just wide by goalkeeper Maximo Banguerra, was Peru’s best effort on goal since the fourth minute when Paolo Guerrero nearly dispossessed Banguerra to score after a lazy backpass.

Libman pulled off his first good save from a 14th-minute free kick by Cristian Noboa and in the 35th he rushed off his line to deny Edson Montano. Montano squandered another good chance just a minute later when he blasted over the bar from 12 meters out.

Taking advantage of its extra man before the break, Ecuador continued to push forward and Isaac Mina nearly slid the ball home at the far post after Jefferson Montero fired a low shot across the face of the goal from a quickly taken corner.

Immediately after the break, Jaime Ayovi surged into the box for Ecuador but his shot was blocked and his team rarely threatened after that as Peru refused to sit back and play for a draw. Lone striker Claudio Pizarro repeatedly threatened the shaky Ecuador defense without managing to get a clear shot on goal.

The Werder Bremen forward was back in the Peru team for his first match in more than three years. He was given an 18-month ban for allegedly partying in a hotel after a World Cup qualifier in 2007. The ban was THE HAGUE: Ecuador’s Mario David Quiroz (left) is chal- later reduced on lenged by Juan Manuel Vargas of Peru during an interna- appeal to three months. —AP tional friendly soccer match. —AP

THE HAGUE: Peru goalkeeper Salomon Libman saved a penalty as his 10-man team easily held Ecuador to a 0-0 draw yesterday in a friendly international.

Libman’s penalty block was one of three first-half saves that kept his team in the Copa America tuneup match played on neutral turf at ADO The Hague’s Kyocera Stadium.

Dutch referee Eric Braamhaar awarded the spot kick and sent off Christian Ramos after the defender used his hand to save a goal-bound header in the 22nd minute. Libman then dived to his right to save Ecuador captain Walter Ayovi’s penalty.

Despite being a man down, Peru pressed forward in the second half and came close to stealing the match thanks to a 78th-minute shot by Luis Advincula just two minutes after he came on as a substitute.

Czechs defeat Liechtenstein Euro 2012 qualifier CESKE BUDEJOVICE: Milan Baros and Michal Kadlec scored to lead the Czech Republic to a 20 victory over Liechtenstein in qualifying for the 2012 European Championship yesterday.

Baros collected a pass from captain Tomas Rosicky three minutes into the game and scored with a low shot from the edge of the area to beat goalkeeper Peter Jehle. It was the 39th goal for Baros in 81 international games.

K adlec headed in the second in the 70th minute from a corner by Jaroslav Plasil.

The Czechs are second in Group I with nine points from five matches, while Liechtenstein is last with no points. “It was a must-win match,” Czech coach Michal Bilek said. “We’re glad for the win, although it was not our best game.”

Spain, which has a perfect record in qualifying with four wins, is three points clear on top and plays at Lithuania later Tuesday. Scotland and Lithuania are tied for third on four points.

The Czechs failed to conver t numerous chances, especially Jan Moravek in the first half while Baros hit the crossbar after the break.

Kadlec’s free kick forced Jehle into making a diving save in the 39th, and David Lafata, Zdenek Pospech, Tomas Sivok also came close to scoring.

At the other end, Thomas Beck twice shot over the bar in the first half, and Philippe Erne tested goalkeeper Petr Cech as the Czechs defense looked surprisingly porous. Cech saved David Hasler’s shot following a quick counterattack in the 53rd.

“The opponent threatened from dangerous counterattacks,” Bilek said. “We made too many mistakes in the first half.” The Czechs play next at Scotland on Sept. 3, while Liechtenstein hosts Lithuania on June 3.

Before the game, fans and players observed a minute’s silence for defender Ladislav Novak, who captained Czechoslovakia to the final of the 1962 World Cup in Chile. Novak died last week at age 79. —AP

DOHA: Qatar’s Yousef Ahmed (right) vies for the ball with Russia’s Denis Glushakov during the international friendly soccer match at Al- the Sadd Stadium. —AP

Russia held by Qatar in friendly DOHA: Russia’s poor season was extended by Qatar in a 1-1 draw yesterday in a friendly celebrating the future World Cup hosts.

Former Ghana boss Milovan Rajevac had more to cheer in his first outing as Qatar coach, as his side opened the scoring before 9,500 at Al Sadd Stadium.

Russia lost its two previous friendlies against Belgium and Iran and looked on course to losing a third straight. After being held goalless by Armenia last weekend in Euro 2012 qualifying, Russia was down a goal after only four minutes in Doha thanks to Mohamed Kasoula.

Qatar skipper Sebastian Soria had a chance to double the lead moments later but missed an easy shot. Russia equalized in the 33rd when captain Andrey Arshavin surged from midfield and set up Roman Pavlyuchenko to tap in his side’s first goal in four matches and 385 minutes. The last time Russia scored was Alexander Kerzhakov ’s eighth-minute winner in a Euro 2012 qualifier at Macedonia on Oct. 12.

After an entertaining first half in Doha, both sides surprisingly slipped into a defensive rut. Russia coach Dirk Advocaat preferred to change more than half of his team but to no

Knicks top Magic in OT

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Andrea sends Caroline packing

KEY BISCAYNE: Andrea Petkovic of Germany returns the ball to Caroline Wozniacki of Denmark at the Sony Ericsson Open tennis tournament. —AP

KEY BISCAYNE: With her dubious No. 1 ranking secure for at least three more weeks, Caroline Wozniacki’s taking a break. Her enforced vacation began Monday when she lost in the fourth round at the Sony Ericsson Open to Andrea Petkovic of Germany, 7-5, 3-6, 6-3. “I’m just going to take a few days of rest now,” Wozniacki said. “I need that, you know — maybe on the beach, get some of the tan lines off.” Wozniacki’s play paled next to Petkovic’s at pivotal moments.

Leading 5-4 in the opening set, Wozniacki failed to convert three set points. As the final set slipped away, she angrily kicked at a ball — and failed to make solid contact.

That was one of her many unforced errors. The ranking system draws criticism because Wozniacki has been on top for nearly six months, despite never winning a Grand Slam tournament.

She’ll remain No. 1 through at least April 18, but with Serena and Venus Williams skipping Key Biscayne for health reasons, Wozniacki missed a chance to strengthen her claim to the top spot. “I’m not thinking about that,” she said. “Of course I would have loved to have won today, but it didn’t happen. I’m not going to dig a hole for myself, or dig a grave. I will just take a few days of rest, and I’m prepared for the clay season.”

Petkovic, ranked a career-best 23rd, hit an ace to end the first set and another on match point. She waved her arms as she danced at the net to celebrate her biggest victory. “It’s the Petko Dance,” she later said with a smile.

No. 16-seeded Maria Sharapova scored her first win over a top-five player in more than three years, beating No. 4 Samantha Stosur 6-4, 6-1. Sharapova, a two-time runner-up at Key Biscayne, earned a berth in the quarterfinals against No. 26 Alexandra Dulgheru. On the men’s side, two-time champion Roger Federer and top-ranked Rafael Nadal advanced to the fourth round.

Federer, who slipped to third in the rankings last week, beat No. 32 Juan Monaco 7-6 (4), 6-4.

Nadal, seeking his first Key Biscayne title, never faced a break point and defeated fellow Spaniard Feliciano Lopez 6-3, 6-3.

Wozniacki is tied for the tour lead in victories this year, and she earned her 14th career title a week ago at Indian Wells. But she has little history of success at Key Biscayne, where she has yet to reach the semifinals.

Content as always to stay behind the baseline, she doggedly battled Petkovic on a warm afternoon for 21/2 hours. But Wozniacki converted only five of 17 break-point opportunities.

“I had so many chances in my first set,” she said. “I had set points and I didn’t take them. Then the energy level dropped a little bit, and I lost.” Petkovic became the first German woman to reach the tournament’s quarterfinals since Anke Huber in 2001.

She’ll next face No. 6 Jelena Jankovic, who beat Anabel Medina Garrigues 6-1, 6-3. —AP

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CAIRO: Staff at Egypt’s stock exchange market gather wait for the opening of the fifth session in the trading hall after a nearly two-month closure, in Cairo, yesterday. —AP

Egypt exchange gains modestly CAIRO: Egypt’s benchmark stock index posted a modest rise yesterday, the third consecutive day of gains, while the trading of shares of several major blue chip companies was temporarily halted after they triggered safeguards aimed at cooling the market.

The Egyptian Exchange’s benchmark EGX30 index was up about 2.3 percent by 12:35 p.m. Cairo time. The index had closed up 0.75 percent on Monday, giving back much of its the gains it recorded earlier in the day as buyers stepped back to reassess the market.

The exchange’s acting chairman, Mohammed AbdelSalam, said the market has been performing well since it was relaunched on March 23, nearly two months after trading was halted amid protests that ousted former President Hosni Mubarak. Abdel-Salam said that officials would meet later to discuss when to lift or ease measures enacted ahead of the exchange’s relaunch, such as “circuit-breakers” under which trading would be suspended for 30 minutes if the broader EGX100 index shifts by more than 5 percent.

Another halt would take place on a 10 percent shift.

“Maybe we will not stop all the circuit breakers, or these procedures, but maybe it will return back to normal, step by step,” Abdel-Salam said at a news conference. Traders said institutional investors remained particularly active in the market, with Egyptian investors still clinging to the sidelines amid continued volatility in the market and a general sense of disquiet about the course of the country following Mubarak’s ouster in February. Egypt’s military rulers said Monday that the much-reviled emergency laws that have been in force for over 30 years in the country would be lifted by the time elections are held in September. Already, Egyptians have voted in a referendum on proposed constitutional amendments, a vote seen as a milestone in a country where such events were rigged in favor the ruling party.

But hanging over the market are investigations involving former regime officials and wealthy businessmen who had links to the ousted president and his confidants. Companies in which these individuals either held posts, or had holdings, have either taken big hits on the exchange, or have had their shares see little interest. Yesterday, Ezz Steel, whose chairman is among the most high profile former party officials facing charges, saw its shares stop trading for 30 minutes after it quickly hit its 10 percent limit down, traders said. Another company with links to a former official, Palm Hills Development, also saw trading in its shares temporarily halted for the same reason, traders said.

Ezz’s shares were trading at 10.51 pounds, down 9.55 percent. Ezz shares accounted for the highest turnover so far during the day, said Mostafa Abdel-Aziz, a senior broker with Mideast investment bank Beltone Financial. The company’s shares “were trying to absorb the selling pressure,” said Abdel-Aziz.

The heavy presence of foreigner and institutional investors has raised some eyebrows among brokers who argued that some of these institutions appeared more intent on playing the market than looking at the kind of long-range investment portfolio that Egyptian officials had hoped to see.

The country’s economy is facing major pressure with an expected sharp drop in tourism revenues and foreign direct investment. Abdel-Salam, the exchange’s chairman, said that while some of the foreign participation may be focused on the short-term, their presence was “good for the market.” —AP

Mideast unrest hits air traffic Growth stifled sharply in February GENEVA: Growing unrest in the Middle East and North Africa stifled air passenger traffic in February, reducing growth sharply from January levels, International Air Transport Association figures released yesterday showed.

International passenger traffic grew 6 percent compared with a year earlier, down from a revised 8.4 percent rise in January as would-be travellers delayed or postponed their journeys to the region, depressing monthly numbers.

“The political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa during February is estimated to have cut international traffic by about 1 percent. As such it is responsible almost entirely for the slippage in passenger demand growth,” IATA said.

Air freight-an important measure of world trade-was also impacted by the unrest, as well as by factory shutdowns due to the Chinese New Year, which occurred in the first part of February.

Air cargo traffic was up just 2.3 percent

in February after rising 8.7 percent in January, IATA said in its monthly traffic figures. Rising oil prices, pushed up by concerns the unrest could force oil prices up further, are also choking air traffic.

The Japanese earthquake and ensuing concerns over a damaged nuclear power plant combined with continuing unrest in the MENA region are expected to squeeze March air traffic further.

“As the unrest in Egypt and Tunisia spreads across the Middle East and North

Africa, demand growth across the region is taking a step back,” said IATA Chief Executive Giovanni Bisignani in a statement.

“The tragic earthquake and its aftermath in Japan will most certainly see a further dampening of demand from March.”

IATA represents 240 airlines operating 94 percent of all international traffic.

Domestic flights are excluded from its data. —Reuters

UAE aims to become top sulfur exporter

ASHEVILLE: James Brazell drives his Chevy Volt electric car near his home in Asheville, NC. Brazell plugs the car in after short trips. ‘Pretty much I top it up every time I bring it into the garage,’ he said. —AP

Bahrain bourse eyes liquidity boost not merger partner DUBAI: Bahrain’s bourse denied it was looking for a merger partner and aims to boost liquidity and attract new listings on its own, its director said yesterday.

Local daily National reported yesterday the exchange, which incorporated as an independent company earlier in the year, will seek a tie-up with another bourse to see out the worst of the regional unrest citing the same executive.

“We have a strategic plan to boost liquidity and volumes on the exchange but any discussions for tieups or mergers are not on the table now,” Fouad Rahman Rashid, the

director of the bourse said.

Bahrain’s stock market, the smallest Gulf market, has already been plagued with low levels of trading due to its makeup which includes institutions that trade infrequently.

Earlier this month it was forced to close amid sectarian unrest in the island kingdom. The bourse began to operate commercially as a financial institution aiming to make profits from January 2011 and since then has been trying to attract more liquidity and listings to the market, the executive said.

“We are a company now. We have to make profits just like anyone else.

For that, more listings are required,” he said. Bahrain has been struggling with protests and political unrest that has prompted credit downgrades of the small state, forced the market to shut briefly and shuttered financial operations over the last month.

Despite the unrest, the bourse has held up compared with other regional exchanges, the executive said.

Bahrain’s index is down 1.8 percent so far this year, compared with 3.3 percent for the Qatar bourse. But trading volumes have been miniscule compared with other exchanges with very few shares trading on a daily basis. —Reuters

ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates plans to produce 22,000 tons of sulfur a day by 2015, which positions it to be a leading world sulfur exporter, said an executive at state-owned Abu Dhabi Gas Development Co (ADCO).

Production at the high sulfur Shah gas project being developed by Occidental Petroleum and Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) is planned to start by 2014.

By 2015 the field is expected to produce around 9,200 tons of sulfur per day, said Tareq Sahoo, supervisor of operations at ADCO. “Once the Shah project starts, we expect sulfur production in the UAE to reach 22,000 tons per day which will be the largest production in the world, surpassing Canada,” he told reporters at an industry event in Abu Dhabi yesterday.

The bulk of the production will be exported to China, India and Morocco, said Sahoo.

“There is strong demand for sulfur in a number of countries so we are not too worried about demand because it’s there,” he said. Sulfur is used in the manufacturing of fertilizers and sulfuric acid, which is used in oil refining, wastewater processing and mineral extraction.

Currently ADNOC has no plans to process the sulfur domestically, but with large amounts of the material being extracted, potential projects might be developed.

Engineering procurement and construction (EPC) contracts for the Shah project’s sulfur station are expected to be awarded early next month, said Sahoo, declining to give details on its value.

Occidental won the contract to participate in the sour gas project earlier this year after US major ConocoPhillips pulled out of the bidding last April.

ADNOC will not be looking for additional partners, said Sahoo. “ADDOC has the experience in dealing with sour gas and the decision is to work with Oxy as our only partner in this project.”

After completion of the Shah project, the next step would be the issue of a tender for the development of the Bab gas field, said Sahoo. “We are not sure who will be the partner for that, it could be Oxy or anyone else.”

The UAE, the world’s third-largest oil exporter, launched a tender in 2007 to develop the Shah and Bab fields. The complexity of developing both fields led Abu Dhabi to split the tender and give priority to the Shah field.

The UAE holds the world’s seventh-largest gas reserves, at around 227.1 trillion cubic feet, according to BP statistics. Much of the UAE’s gas is sour. —Reuters

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Saudi prepares 28% increase in oil rigs Kingdom taps oil service companies to employ more rigs

Omair Rana appointed head of Investment Banking at Global Saudi KUWAIT: Global Investment House Saudia (Global Saudi) announced yesterday that it has appointed Omair Rana to head its Investment Banking as part of the company’s commitment to enhance its services to clients in Saudi Arabia.

Fahad Al-Hamidi, Chief Executive Officer of Global Saudi said, “I am delighted that Omair Rana has joined the Global team. He will be an added value to Global Saudi as his role is critical in fulfilling the mission of the Investment Banking department. We are confident that his background and experience in the financial sector will play a fundamental role towards the creation of investment opportunities for our valuable clients.”

Omair Rana has over 15 years of investment banking, private equity and corporate strategy experience. Prior to joining Global, Omair was the Chief Strategy Officer at Dubai International Capital focusing on major private equity transactions amounting to $1billion of enterprise value. Before coming to the GCC, he was Senior Vice President at Citigroup’s internal M&A and Strategy team, executing a handful of financial institution acquisitions in Central America and Turkey valued at over $3billion. Omair also worked on managing projects and trading analytics for Fixed Income’s Mortgage Backed Securities department at UBS Investment Bank in

London. He holds an MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School (New York), an MBA in Strategy from London Business School, and a BS in Biochemistry from James Madison University (Virginia).

Omair expressed his pleasure in joining Global Saudi, “I am delighted to be a member of the Global Saudi team and I look forward to strengthen Global’s presence in the region’s biggest market.

Investment banking in Saudi Arabia is a growing market fuelled by the impressive growth of the capital markets and positive economic prospects generally.

Notwithstanding the short-term blips of turmoil in the region, the need for investment banking services in the Kingdom remains buoyant and the longer-term outlook is quite favorable. The modus operandi for our division shall be to build our track record with the most innovative, distinctive and customized transactions that not only facilitate our client’s needs but also enhance the Global brand in Saudi.”

It is worth noting that Global Investment House - Saudia is a closed Saudi joint stock company regulated & licensed under the Saudi Capital Market Authority (CMA) 07067-37 to provide securities investment services including dealing as Principal and as Agent, underwriting, managing, arranging, advisory and custody.

NEW YORK/SINGAPORE: Top oil exporter Saudi Arabia has unexpectedly called on oilfield service firms to expand the kingdom’s oil rig count by nearly 30 percent, according to Simmons & Co, to ensure spare production capacity remains ample as supply uncertainty grows.

Saudi state-run oil giant Saudi Aramco met with leading oil service companies including Halliburton over the weekend, unveiling plans to boost the country’s rig count this year and next to 118, from around 92 now, Simmons & Co analyst Bill Herbert said on Monday.

“Saudi Arabia has been expected to tread water on its production capacity, so this is unexpected,” Herbert said from Houston in a phone interview.

“The risk premium in the Middle East has risen. Also, with Libyan production falling, Saudi Arabia may feel it has to be ready for higher production capacity.”

Plans to boost the rig count constitute the most overt evidence that Saudi Arabia, holder of the world’s biggest oil reserves, is stepping up investment in the face of crude prices of over $100 a barrel, though it is unclear whether this will expand the kingdom’s spare capacity beyond the current total of as much as 3.5 million bpd, or merely prevent it from falling.

“It’s definitely not for expanding capacity,” said Siamak Adibi, senior consultant at FACTS Global Energy in Singapore. “For this year, the majority of new wells to be drilled is just for maintaining existing capacity” of 12.5 million barrels per day, Adibi added, including the neutral zone.

Saudi oil-minister Ali Al-Naimi has outlined plans to boost the

kingdom’s crude oil production capacity to 15 million bpd, including mention of specific fields, saying such an expansion would only proceed if warranted by demand.

But Simmons & Co founder Matthew R Simmons, until his death in August 2010, repeatedly questioned the kingdom’s ability to boost and sustain production at high levels in the long term, citing geological constraints.

More than any other country, Saudi Arabia defines its international role by the ability to rapidly increase oil production to meet growing demand or cover disruptions elsewhere, such as the recent collapse in shipments from war-torn Libya. The kingdom has responded by pumping 500,000 to 750,000 barrels a day more in recent weeks, analysts said.

“This is Saudi Arabia’s raison d’etre. It must ensure that spare capacity is sufficient or else its importance in the world will be diminished,” said oil analyst Peter Beutel of Cameron Hanover in Connecticut. Analysts said a recent Saudi output boost to around 9 million barrels a day may have made Aramco apprehensive about its ability to prime the pumps further if the world calls for much greater volumes.

“At the start of the year they were producing around 8.5 mln bpd of oil and were sitting on around 3.5 mln bpd of spare capacity. They’ve had to increase production by between 500,000 and 750,000 bpd after Libya went out of the market so their spare capacity is already way down,” said Roger Read, managing director at Morgan Keegan in Houston.

A New York-based oil analyst, who tracks Saudi production and requested anonymity, said: “You

could see this in one of two ways.

Either they realize that 3 million barrels of spare capacity isn’t enough, or they realize their capacity isn’t actually that high.”

Saudi Arabia hasn’t publicly discussed plans to expand its overall crude capacity since completing a $100 billion project to raise it by 3 million bpd to a “sustainable” 12 million bpd last year, excluding the neutral zone, leading some analysts to conclude that the increase in rig counts responds to decline at older fields.

“The decline rate in some large OPEC producers like Iran and Saudi Arabia is not new. It’s a challenging issue for these countries, so they just want to drill more wells to keep the same production capacity,” Adibi said.

Saudi Arabia wants the rig count to rise quickly in the second half of 2011 and the first half of next year, and may use some of them for a $16 billion Moneefa project, Herbert said.

Aramco is undertaking the Moneefa project to compensate for declines at other fields rather than to boost capacity, with a planned start-up by June 2013 at 500,000 bpd and a ramp-up to 900,000 bpd by 2024. “There will be some new rigs for Moneefa, but they won’t go ahead to drill all wells in one year,” Adibi from FACTS said. “It will gradually increase production over ten years and it will be offsetting decline from other fields. It’s not additional capacity.”

Halliburton said late on Monday that it would accelerate activity at Moneefa, a project to tap massive offshore heavy crude reserves, following recent discussions with Saudi Arabia. In 2008, the company was awarded a contract to provide drilling and asso-

ciated work at 93 Moneefa wells off northeast Saudi Arabia.

The plans are “manifestly positive” for oil service companies, Herbert said. Their shares soared on Monday. Halliburton rose 4 percent to $47.90 on the New York Stock Exchange after touching a 52-week high. Shares in Schlumberger also rose more than 4 percent, while Baker Hughes rose 3.8 percent.

Schlumberger Chief Executive Andrew Gould privately told analysts on Monday he was encouraged by Saudi Arabia’s commitment to expand spare capacity regardless of any pullback in oil prices, an analyst at the Howard Weil oil conference in New Orleans told Reuters. Crimped oil activity elsewhere in the Middle East and Africa is likely to hit Schlumberger’s first-quarter earnings, Gould said separately.

US oil futures fell 14 cents to $103.84 a barrel early on Tuesday, down from a 30-month high near $107 last week. Since January, political unrest in North Africa and the Middle East has helped to lift prices. So far, the kingdom has avoided major domestic unrest, although the upheaval has been threatening the regimes of neighboring Yemen and Bahrain.

“If we did see a significant oil supply shock and Saudi Arabia came out to produce more, that would be the telling factor that they are willing to supply the market in difficult times,” said Ben Westmore, a commodities analyst at National Australia Bank, adding that “more exploration goes somewhere at communicating that sort of sentiment.”

Saudi Arabia is OPEC’s top producer and controls more t h a n a f i f t h o f wo r l d o i l reserves. —Reuters

Gulf Bank switches off for Earth Hour 2011 in Kuwait KUWAIT: Gulf Bank recently participated in Earth Hour, a global initiative to raise awareness of climate change. On Saturday March 26 at 8.30pm, the Bank not only switched off all unnecessary lights, lowered A/C units and turned off all non-essential electrical devices at the head office, but went a step further this year by also eliminating unnecessary usage of lighting in the Al-Saleh building and all 53 branches across Kuwait.

Fawzy Al-Thunayan, General Manager of Board Affairs said: “Gulf Bank is a strong supporter of this initiative. Earth Hour is an important reminder to us all that seemingly minor actions, such as switching off a light can have a significant impact and benefit our environment. The Bank has a policy to

use energy considerately, and over the past two years we have consistently encouraged our staff to turn off any unused systems and lights to save electricity, whilst ensuring that the safety and integrity of our operations and security systems remain unaffected. By supporting Global Earth Hour, we are not only committing to this initiative, but we are committed to an ongoing lifestyle that we follow at the Bank and we encourage the community to do the same in their daily lives “.

In addition to Earth Hour, Gulf Bank also supports a number of other environmental causes, the most recent was the Green Caravan Film Festival. The Green Caravan is the first film festival of its kind in Kuwait

and one of a small handful of film festivals worldwide dedicated solely to shed light on important environmental issues.

Gulf Bank strongly believes in the importance of environmental initiatives that have a direct impact on the community. The Bank encourages organizations and individuals to take part in these eco-friendly causes, helping to increase the level of awareness amongst society.

Ear th Hour is an initiative led by the World Wildlife Fund and is celebrated across the world, with businesses and consumers joining in ‘the great switch off’.

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

.2725000 .4410000 .3890000 .3000000 .2810000 .2815000 .0045000 .0020000 .0751190 .7318660 .3900000 .0710000 .7174620 .0045000 .0450000

.2830000 .4510000 .3960000 .3090000 .2900000 .2890000 .0075000 .0035000 .0758740 .7392210 .4080000 .0780000 .7246730 .0072000 .0550000

CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES .2767000 .2788000 .4432460 .4466100 .3900360 .3929960 .3022060 .3045000 .2834310 .2855830 .0523060 .0527030 .0433120 .0436400 .2837420 .2858950 .0354820 .0357510 .2191860 .2208490 .0033870 .0034130 .0000000 .0062650 .0000000 .0025350 .0000000 .0032800 .0000000 .0038990 .0753640 .0759360 .7344390 .7400130 .0000000 .3943420 .0738060 .0743660 .7192620 .7247210 .0000000 .0064840

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

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co.

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar Bangladesh Taka

ASIAN COUNTRIES 3.426 6.219 3.255 2.515 3.893 220.670 35.664 3.818

Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - Transfer Irani Riyal - Cash

6.381 9.179 0.271 0.273 GCC COUNTRIES 74.170 76.429 722.490 738.610 75.727

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Egyptian Pound - Cash Egyptian Pound - Transfer Yemen Riyal Tunisian Dinar Jordanian Dinar Lebanese Lira Syrian Lier Morocco Dirham

ARAB COUNTRIES 49.750 46.657 1.273 201.630 392.810 184.500 6.301 35.308

EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 278.050 Euro 394.140 Sterling Pound 447.240 Canadian dollar 286.350 Turkish lire 178.490 Swiss Franc 306.390 Australian dollar 285.080 US Dollar Buying 276.850

Indonesia Iranian tuman Iraqi dinar Japanese yen Jordanian dinar Lebanese pound Malaysian ringgit Morocco dirham Nepalese Rupees New Zealand dollar Nigeria Norwegian krone Omani Riyal Pakistani rupees Philippine peso Qatari riyal Saudi riyal Singapore dollar South Africa Sri Lankan rupees Sterling pound Swedish krona Swiss franc Syrian pound Thai bhat Tunisian dollar UAE dirham U.S. dollars Yemeni Riyal

GOLD 270.000 137.000 70.000

Sterling Pound US Dollar

Bahrain Exchange Company COUNTRY Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash Hongkong dollar Indian rupees

SELL CASH 288.500 739.210 4.090 288.000 546.900 14.100 53.400 167.800 49.300 396.200 36.360 6.400

SELL DRAFT 287.000 739.210 3.825 285.500

221.700 46.799 394.700 36.210 6.215

0.032

392.860 0.187 93.850 3.900 211.000

305.500 6.100 9.370 75.840 277.500

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 448.000 277.900

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd Rate for Transfer US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro Swiss Frank Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupees Indian Rupees

Selling Rate 278.000 285.535 446.195 393.030 302.009 735.788 75.666 76.337 74.103 392.705 46.757 2.515 6.216

Pakistani Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Cyprus pound Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

3.264 3.833 6.407 681.920 3.496 9.197 6.064 3.965 91.428

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co. 721.800 3.270 6.400 76.460 74.210 221.660 42.880 2.515 448.000

GOLD 1,480.180

10 Tola 20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

0.033 0.254 0.247 3.500 394.470 0.188 93.850 46.900 4.360 212.500 1.884 51.200 721.980 3.340 6.620 76.890 74.210 221.660 42.880 2.697 450.000 45.000 307.000 6.100 9.540 198.263 75.840 278.300 1.340

Currency US Dollar Pak Rupees Indian Rupees Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso UAE Dirhams Saudi Riyals Bahraini Dinars Egyptian Pounds Pound Sterling Indonesian Rupiah Nepali rupee Yemeni Riyal Jordanian Dinars Syrian Pounds Euro Canadian Dollars

Rate per 1000 (Tran) 277.900 3.270 6.215 2.530 3.835 6.425 75.745 74.315 738.800 46.675 451.000 0.00003280 3.910 1.550 394.800 5.750 397.800 290.600

Al Mulla Exchange Currency Transfer Rate (Per 1000) Pound Sterling 447.800 Canadian Dollar 286.300 Japanese Yen 3.405 Indian Rupee 6.210 Egyptian Pound 46.650 Sri Lankan Rupee 2.513 Bangladesh Taka 3.819 Philippines Peso 6.375 Pakistan Rupee 3.259 Bahraini Dinar 739.170 UAE Dirham 75.675 Saudi Riyal 74.150 *Rates are subject to change

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NBK ‘The Best Provider of Money Market Funds in ME’ Global Finance recognition KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the highest rated bank in the Middle East, was recognized as Best Provider of Money Market Funds in the Middle East 2011 by the world renowned financial magazine “Global Finance”. This accolade comes as a result of the performance of Watani KD Money Market Fund, which is managed by NBK Capital.

NBK is the only Middle East and Arab bank to be enlisted among the World’s Best Provider of Money Market Funds along with major international financial institutions such as J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Standard Bank, and DB Advisors.

“Global Finance” said that the reason for the

Commodity weekly update

Strong comeback for commodities

recognition is that “the fund posted strong cumulative and annualized returns well above industry benchmarks since the fund was started.”

The Watani KD Money Market Fund is one of several funds managed by NBK Capital for NBK. The fund was launched in 2002 and has since then provided excellent returns for investors with a cumulative return since inception of 35.3% and an annualized return since inception of 3.5%.

Nabil Maroof, Managing Director of Asset Management at NBK Capital, stated, “we are very proud to be recognized as the leading providers of Money Market Funds in the Middle East region.

This recognition comes following the exceptional performance of our Ijara funds and equity funds for 2010, and helps establish NBK Capital as the leading destination for regional investors.”

The Watani KD Money Market Fund is one of five Money Market Funds provided by NBK Capital.

Subscription and redemption to all Money Market Funds is on a weekly basis and the minimum investment for the Watani KD Money Market Fund is KD 25,000.he National Bank of Kuwait (NBK), the best bank in the Middle East, held an Investment Forum for its Thahabi clients at Regency Hotel on Tuesday, March 22, 2011.

US home prices falling in most major US cities

By Ole S Hansen

C

ommodity markets have bounced back strongly after the carnage caused by risk adversity in the wake of the Japanese earthquake.

The big losers of last week have turned into big winners this week with attention now firmly on potential supply disruptions from continued geopolitical uncertainty.

Military strikes in Libya have intensified and unrest elsewhere in the region continues to attract buyers of oil. The radiation risk in Japan combined with continued aftershocks is still causing major problems and hindering the reconstruction process, which is estimated to cost Y25,000 billion ($309 billion) compared with Y10,000 billion after Kobe.

In Europe the sovereign debt crisis returned to the front pages with the Portuguese government stepping down after failing to pass a deficit reducing budget. It is now very likely that Portugal will request an international bailout in the coming days. The immediate risk is one of contagion with Moody’s cutting the rating of 30 Spanish banks.

Ole S Hansen The DJ-UBS index, which tracks 19 commodities with 1/3 exposure to each of the three major sectors energy, metals and agricultural, has risen 3% over the last week.

Silver outperforming gold - again Silver has now rallied 12% from the lows last week reaching a new 31 year high in the process. Investors have returned in full strength after the recent setback as they look for alternative investments amid the ongoing concerns about Libya and Europe’s debt crisis. Gold on the other hand continues to find it very tough breaking into new territory with sellers continuing to emerge on any rallies. Given the strong performance by silver and general amount of uncertainties around, new highs will probably be seen eventually.

Crude oil The price of WTI crude oil has also moved sharply higher over the past week as supplies from Libya remain off line. Lingering doubt persists about Saudi Arabia’s ability to meet the shortfall, given the difference between high quality North African oil compared to the heavier and lower quality Saudi oil. Reduced demand from Japanese refiners of some 1.3 million barrels per day has so far received limited or no attention.

We have yet to see any global demand destruction from the recent events and with economists still expecting synchronized growth in emerging markets and developed markets prices should be supported in the months ahead. This is also the reason why various investor surveys continue to highlight the energy sector as potentially the best performing one during 2011.

During the recent 10 dollar sell off we only saw a limited reduction in the speculative long WTI crude position among hedge funds and large investors, a clear indication that it takes more than that to shake the bullish view on the sector. The US market continues to be well supplied with inventories rising for a third week with overall demand increasing to 19.3 million barrels a day, some 21% of total global consumption. Gasoline consumption rose by 2.8% to 9.07 mbd and is clearly not showing any signs of slowing down despite the average price at the pump being 28% higher than the 2010 average.

Grains higher The agricultural sector which experienced the biggest wash out also saw the strongest come back this week with the DJ-UBS grain sector rising by nearly 8% on the back of strong comebacks for corn and rice. Why did corn drop by 18% in a matter of weeks give the strong fundamental outlook for this crop?

The speculative build up of positions over the last six months probably caused most of the selling as investors had to reduce exposure towards riskier assets. This resulted in the grain sector seeing positions being scaled back by 69,000 lots last week and since early February the total reduction has been 232,000 lots as better news on crop forecasts began to reach the market. It does highlight the risk of what happens when the speculative bow gets strung to hard, something that the investor needs to take into account when planning his allocation.

Prospective planting report setting the tone The overriding focus in the days ahead will be a March 31 report from the US Department of Agriculture showing planting intentions among US farmers. The Prospective Plantings Report will give the first indication for the 2010/11 crop outlook. This annual battle for acreage is currently expected to benefit corn and soybeans as rising prices make these crops more profitable.

The price of wheat has struggled to recover with investors failing to respond to the 30% price collapse since early February. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization sees global wheat production for 2011 season reaching 767 million tons, up 3.4% from last year. This will primarily be led by a possible 33% jump in Russian output as the country recovers from the devastating drought last summer.

Nabil Maroof

WASHINGTON: A townhouse is for sale in Brooklyn, New York. Housing prices fell in 19 of 20 large cities and 0.22 percent overall in January, according to the S&P/Case-Shiller index released yesterday. Washington was the only city in which prices rose. Prices have fallen 3 percent in the past year. —AP

The Sultan Center announces winners of Mother’s Day draw KUWAIT: The Sultan Center mother’s day celebration this year was inlaid with pearls and diamonds along with many other valuable gifts. A draw was held on pearls and diamonds sets presented by Zoughaib jewelry, one of the finest jewelry brands in the market.

The draw was held on March 28, 2011 at TSC Sultan Center Salmiya in the presence of representatives from Ministry of Commerce, Zoughaib jewelry, and The Sultan Center. The winners were then announced and received their valuable pearls and diamonds sets amid joy and cheer.

NIDAI ISON MANLIWAT won the first prize which was a full pearl and diamonds set of necklace, bracelet, ring and earrings and AMGAD AHMED AL DBZI

won the second prize which was a full diamonds and precious stones set of necklace, bracelet, ring and earrings, while the third winner was ABDULKARIM SOUD ATEYA and won a Spiral watch with inlaid diamonds.

TSC Rewards program manager mentioned that this celebration is the truest expression of gratitude and love that The Sultan Center wishes to share with all its esteemed customers in this special occasion. This promotion was exclusive to the TSC Rewards card holders. TSC customers who are not already members of the Rewards Program can sign up for free and receive their card immediately at any TSC Sultan Center.

For more information, please visit www.sultan-center.com or call 1844449.

MAGDEBURG: This illustration taken yesterday in a shop in Magdeburg, eastern Germany, shows energy saving lamps produced by electric bulb maker Osram. German industrial giant Siemens plans to list more than half its lighting unit Osram on the stock market later in 2011, it said in what will likely be the biggest German initial public offer (IPO) in years. — AFP

Saudi sells new crude to European buyers LONDON: Saudi Arabia has sold European buyers around 2 million barrels of a new crude, blended to compensate for lost Libyan barrels, a source at state-run Saudi Aramco told Reuters yesterday.

“We have just sold three cargoes in total to replace to Libyan oil: two cargoes to OMV and one cargo to BP,” the source said, adding the total volume was around 2 million barrels for March-loading. “We have more volume that will be available in April,” the source said. No-one from Austrian oil company OMV was immediately available and BP declined to comment. In February, Saudi Arabia, OPEC’s leading producer, said it would increase output to make up for the disruption of oil from fellow OPEC member

Libya, where a violent revolution has pitted rebels against Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi.

Saudi Arabia’s output has risen to around 9 million bpd, roughly 1 million bpd above its OPEC output target, but traders voiced doubt that Saudi’s mostly high sulfur, or sour, crude would be an adequate substitute for Libyan easy-to-refine, light, sweet oil.

The Aramco source said the state oil company had developed a special new blend. The API gravity of the new blend, which is unnamed, is between 41 and 44 and its sulfur content is 0.5-0.8 percent, which puts it into a category of light and sweet. The differentials for the crude sales were not disclosed. — Reuters

NEW YORK: Home prices are falling in most major US cities, and the average prices in four of them are at their lowest point in 11 years. Analysts expect further prices declines in most cities in the coming months. The Standard & Poor’s/Case-Shiller 20-city index released yesterday shows price declines in 19 cities from December to January. Eleven of them are at their lowest level since the housing bust, in 2006 and 2007. The index fell for the sixth straight month.

Home values in Atlanta, Las Vegas, Detroit and Cleveland are now below January 2000 levels.

The only market where prices rose was Washington, where homes prices gained 0.1 percent month over month. “The housing market recession is not yet over, and none of the statistics are indicating any form of sustained recovery,” said David M. Blitzer, chairman of the Index Committee at Standard & Poor’s.

The pain is not uniform, however. It is worse in cities where foreclosures and short sales are dominating the market and pushing home prices down. That includes Detroit and Cleveland, which are struggling with weak local economies.

Miami, Phoenix, Las Vegas and Atlanta are reeling from overbuilding during the housing boom. California cities are faring better. San Diego was the only city besides Washington where home prices have risen year over year.

Home prices in the US capital are up 3.6 percent year over year and have risen nearly 11 percent since they bottomed out in March 2009. And among the 20 cities, prices there have held up the best since 2000, appreciating almost 84 percent.

The Case-Shiller report measures home price increases and decreases relative to prices in January 2000 and gives an updated three-month average for the metropolitan areas it looks at. — AP

Italian banks hit Euro stocks; dollar rises NEW YORK: European banking shares helped lead world stocks lower yesterday after an Italian bank announced a capital increase, while the dollar rose after a top Federal Reserve official said the US central bank’s asset purchase plan should be curtailed.

US stocks rose on strength in largecap technology stocks, but investors remained cautious due to the continuing global crises and the approach of the end of the first quarter. Uncertainty over Libya drove up the price of oil, as government troops under Muammar Gaddafi halted a rebel advance aimed at restoring oil exports from the OPEC member.

World stocks as measured by MSCI were down 0.1 percent, after slipping about 0.3 percent earlier, mainly as a result of weakness in Europe. Emerging market stocks gained around 0.4 percent.

The surprise announcement by Italy’s UBI Banca’s of a 1 billion euro ($1.4 billion) capital hike dragged down Italian banks on speculation that other lenders could be heading down the same road.

UBI shares fell more than 11 percent.

Investors also remained cautious ahead of the results of stress tests on Irish banks, due on Thursday. The FTSEurofirst 300 index of top European shares was down 0.3 percent. “We are still very cautious on the banking sector as a whole,” said Felicity Smith, fund manager at Bedlam Asset Management. “The big problem is that they need to hold more capital and that means in future, even if the economy grows, the returns they generate would be lower.”

Volume has begun to fall on European bourses in line with 2011 lows on Wall Street.

The Dow Jones industrial average was up 36.37 points, or 0.30 percent, at 12,234.25. The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index was up 1.48 points, or 0.11 percent, at 1,311.67. The Nasdaq Composite Index was up 11.35 points, or 0.42 percent, at 2,742.03.

“The quarter is ending with a lot of uncertainties out there, resulting in messy intraday moves at the same time that nothing is really happening,” said Michael Shaoul, chairman of the New York-based Marketfield Asset Management, which oversees $973 million.

“There’s nothing obvious about what investors need to do in this environment, and that’s why you’re seeing such low volume,” he said. “No one has any reason to recommit capital.” The Nasdaq was helped by strength in large-cap tech shares. Amazon.com Inc rose 2.2 percent to $173.12 after it introduced a service

offering remote access to music. Cisco Systems rose 1.6 percent to $17.40 after it said it plans to buy newScale Inc for an undisclosed amount to boost its cloud computing services.

The dollar rose against the euro after the president of the St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank, James Bullard, told an audience in Prague that the US economy was strong enough to curtail the Fed’s $600 billion asset purchase program by some $100 billion.

The euro hit a session low of $1.4060 on the EBS trading platform after falling through reported bids at $1.4080. It last traded at $1.4085. Traders said reported sovereign bids at $1.4050 could limit losses in the single currency, however.

Portugal’s debt remained under pressure, with yields on its 10-year bonds near record levels above 8 percent, complicating the country’s attempts to avoid a European Union bailout.

The dollar extended gains against the euro after data showed US single family home prices fell for a seventh straight month in January, offering fresh evidence that the housing market recession in the United States was not over yet..

Meanwhile, the dollar and euro both reached their highest levels against the yen since March 18, when the Bank of Japan and other major central banks intervened to stop runaway yen gains.

The dollar rose to high of 82.42 yen on trading platform EBS. The euro rose to 115.86. It was on course to test 116.03, above which would mark a 10-month high.

In commodity markets, US crude’s benchmark May contract for May delivery was flat at just above $104 a barrel, after earlier falling more than a dollar earlier. Analysts said Japan’s lack of progress in containing the nuclear crisis was likely to delay the world’s thirdlargest oil user’s return to full industrial strength, but the downside for oil prices could be limited by unrest in the Middle East.

“We have two factors that are countervailing,” said Harry Tchilinguirian, analyst at BNP Paribas.

“There is a risk premium in the Middle East built in on risk of further contagion.

On the other hand we have the fact Japan is a major component of the global supply chain, so the potential for a price correction in the second quarter remains.”

US gold remained under pressure after Monday’s losses as the prospect of interest rate increases undermined its appeal as an inflation hedge. Copper also slipped as demand from top consumer China waned. — Reuters

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KSE equities advance

KUWAIT: The rate of the Kuwaiti dinar remained stable against the US dollar at KD 0.277 for the second day in a row, while the euro rate rose to KD 0.390 yesterday.

The rate against the pound sterling dropped to KD 0.443, while remaining unchanged at KD 0.003 against the

GLOBAL DAILY MARKET REPORT KUWAIT: Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) continued its upward momentum for the second day in a row yesterday. Non-Kuwaiti and Services stocks witnessed alternating bouts of buying and selling. Moreover, both blue chips and small caps performed robustly. Investors now focusing on real estate sector after Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), said it will launch a real estate portfolio worth KD1bn ($3.6bn) to invest in the local market. Global Real Estate Index is the only gainer on a month-to-date basis. The index rose 1.55 percent so far in March, while it added a 0.22 percent in the current session.

On the corporate side, companies are trying to avoid trading suspension by releasing their 2010 financial results by end of March 31, 2011. It is worth mentioning that only 114 Kuwaiti listed companies announced their financial results till date (excluding 13 Non-Kuwaiti companies, 14 companies with fiscal year not ending on December 31). Global General Index (GGI), market weighted, ended the day up by 0.51 percent, at 202.40 point.

Market Capitalization was also up for the day at KD32.90bn. On the other hand, KSE Price Index closed at 6,323 point, adding 17.20 points (0.27 percent) to its previous close.

Market breadth During the session, 122 companies were traded. Market breadth was skewed towards decliners as 46 equities retreated advanced versus 40 that advanced. The gains were accompanied by mixed trading activity with most of the trades conducted in the Investment sector.

Total volume traded was down by 2.62 percent with 163.54mn shares changing hands at a total value of KD30.82mn (26.88 percent higher compared to the day before).

The Investment Sector was the

KD stable against dollar Japanese yen, and rising KD 0.302 against the Swiss franc, the Central Bank of Kuwait said in its daily online bulletin.

This comes after the limited sources of economic data on the US economy and while investors wait on the economic events in the euro zone - particularly of Spain and Portugal. — KUNA

Oil continues to slip as Libyan rebels advance

volume leader yesterday, accounting for 27.95 percent of total shares.

Services sector was the value leader, with 32.22 percent of total traded value. Zain was the most value traded in the market with KD5.82mn traded on the scrip. Zain share price closed flat at KD1.340.

Sector-wise The advance was broad-based during the current session with five out of the eight sectors inching higher. The Insurance index led the pack of advancers with a 1.41 percent climb. Al-Ahleia Insurance Company was the sole gainer in the sector, adding 5.38 percent to its share value. Global Non Kuwaiti Index was the second biggest gainer, up by 1.39 percent, backed by heavyweight United Gulf Bank. The scrip was the top gainer in the sector ended the day up by 7.69 percent at KD0.350.

In terms of decliners, Global Investment Index took the lead for the second day in a row with a 0.89 percent decline. Contributing to the index’s decline were Securities Group and Kuwait Investment Company which posted declines of 13.57 percent and 1.96 percent, respectively.

Global’s special indices ended on a positive note, except for Global Islamic Index being the only loser.

The index posted a loss of 0.34 percent backed Kuwait Finance House (KFH). On the other hand, Global Small Cap Index was the top gainer, up 1.39 percent backed by Pearl of Kuwait Real Estate Company and International Resorts Company which posted advances of 11.11 percent and 5.26 percent, respectively.

Corporate news Further to its previous announce-

ment dated February 16, 2011, Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) declares that it has received a filing from Osoul Investment Co, indicating that the board approved by collecting signatures to modify shareholder meeting’s recommendation on decreasing capital.

Shareholders proposed to slash capital by the value of accumulated losses that were adjusted to KD15,933,496 instead of KD15,343,284. Accordingly, capital will be reduced by 45.78 percent from KD34,804,000 to KD18,870,504, pending the approval of shareholder meeting and competent authorities.

Oil news The price of OPEC basket of twelve crudes stood at $110.37 a barrel yesterday, compared with $110.91 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations.

LONDON: Brent crude eased yesterday, falling for a third day running, as Libyan rebels advanced against government forces.

Brent crude futures for May delivery fell 54 cents to $114.26 a barrel by 0916 GMT. US May crude futures fell for a fourth day, down 61 cents to $103.37.

“There’s talk in the market about oil supply from Libya being restored quicker than anticipated,” said Ben Westmore, a commodities analyst at National Australia Bank.

The rebels have regained control of key oil ports but expectations of a quicker return to normal for crude exports were muted. Traders expect the loss of Libya’s nearly two percent share of world crude output to last for months. “The outcome of the looming battle for Sirte will affect how quickly oil exports from Libya come back on line,” said Eurasia Group analyst Cliff Kupchan said. “If there is a standoff at Sirte leading to de facto partition, any exports are unlikely for 3 to 6 months, with a return to full output taking substantially longer,” he added.

“If the rebels take Sirte and move on Tripoli, the timetable could be somewhat expedited, though again full recovery would take a significant period of time.

Trading volume for US crude fell on Monday to the lowest this year as Japan’s struggle to contain the world’s worst nuclear crisis in 25 years countered fears of lower crude supplies over

the fighting in Libya and unrest in the Middle East. The uncertainty clouded the outlook for corporate earnings, weighing on US and Japanese shares.

SAUDI SURPRISE Top exporter Saudi Arabia unexpectedly called on oilfield service firms to expand its oil rig count, gearing up to boost production capacity.

The kingdom has been at the forefront of reassuring consumers that OPEC producers can easily make up for the loss of Libyan oil. Saudi sources have said it stepped up its own output to 9 million barrels per day and can increase by a further 3.5 million bpd if needed.

Saudi state-run oil giant Aramco met with leading oil service companies including Halliburton over the weekend, unveiling plans to boost the country’s rig count this year and next to 118, from around 92 now, Simmons and Co analyst Bill Herbert wrote in a research note. “I don’t think that has a big impact on the market in the short term,” Westmore said. “Any increase to exploration I would take as wanting to keep spare capacity (in the long term).”

Crude oil stocks also likely rose in the United States last week, keeping with seasonal trends, a preliminary Reuters survey of analysts showed ahead of weekly inventory data. Higher imports were expected to meet demand as refiners bring units back from maintenance, analysts said. — Reuters

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Truckers scarce as India aims for top gear growth MUMBAI: After three years of driving on some of the world’s most dangerous roads, 20-year-old Indian truck driver Moin Sheikh wants out of the grueling job.

He complains he is underpaid, overworked, harassed by police and frightened by the reckless driving on India’s traffic-choked roads, which have the world’s highest rate of fatalities.

“I want to leave. The police treat us like dirt and driving at night is dangerous,” Moin, who gets just 3,000 rupees a month ($65) from his private trucking company employer, told AFP at a Mumbai suburban truck halt.

He is not alone in disliking the job: India faces the worst shortage of truckers in the industry’s history as drivers are put off by demanding work hours, low pay, high risks and lengthy stretches away from home and families, companies say.

“We face a 40 percent shortfall, which means

we need three million more drivers,” said R.K. Gulati, spokesman for the All India Motor Transport Congress, a transporters’ lobby group.

“This is the worst manpower crisis the industry has faced,” said Bal Malkit Singh, a city transporter and former head of the Bombay Goods Transport Association.

Singh, who operates over 300 trucks across the country, says the shortage of drivers is so acute that 10 percent of his Bal Roadlines transport fleet stands idle at any point in time due to a lack of drivers.

Other transport operators report that as much as 15 percent of their fleet is out of service for the same reason. One of the main problems is that the government has raised the educational bar for truck drivers, requiring a minimum grade 10 education-or high school to the age of 15 — to carry hazardous goods.

Even for regular freight, a driver needs to have completed middle school to age 13, and young people with these qualifications are more keen to work in offices than spend long hours behind the wheel. Truck drivers in India are also reluctant to stay in the job long, as the lack of a coordinated patrol network means they face a high risk of being mugged on highways by gangs.

Moin says he has been robbed twice, losing his wallet and mobile phone.

All this comes as bad news for the Asian giant’s rapidly expanding economy, which already faces transport bottlenecks because of dilapidated road networks and other hurdles.

India’s two-million-mile (4.2 million kilometre) road network, the world’s second largest after the United States, accounts for nearly 70 percent of the country’s freight movement. The remaining 30 percent goes by rail. “The driver shortage

is having a wider impact on the economy” as goods pile up for transport, said Vishwas Udgirkar, senior India transport director at global consultancy Deloitte.

“It is making efficient logistics tough,” Udgirkar said. The trucker shortage is so bad that many fleet owners break the law requiring commercial vehicles to operate with two drivers so that one can take rest breaks from driving.

One solution for the company bosses would be to raise wages, but they say they are unable to because of cost pressures amid rising fuel and other commodity prices.

Charanjeet Singh, 22, another driver, earns just $60 a month for travelling between commercial capital Mumbai in the west and Jammu in the north, transporting apples and spices.

“I’m worried about my future on such low wages,” Charanjeet says. — AFP

Lula asks Portugal not to take bailout Financial woes deepen after govt quits

CAPE COD: Troutman barters dinner and drinks in exchange for getting the carpets and kitchen cleaned at his restaurant, the Scargo Cafe in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Shellfishermen tending shallow pools of salt water here know the seafood delicacy in their nets can fetch top dollar at swanky restaurants a few hundred miles away in New York City. —AFP

German inflation holds at 2.1% BERLIN: Germany’s inflation rate held steady at 2.1 percent in March due largely to higher oil and energy prices, an official estimate showed yesterday — underlining prospects of an imminent rate hike by the European Central Bank.

Prices were up 0.5 percent on the month, the Federal Statistical Office said in a preliminary estimate. Final data are due April 12 though they rarely change significantly.

Germany has the biggest economy in the 17-nation euro-zone. The latest figures show that euro-zone consumer prices rose 2.4 percent in the year to February — above the ECB’s target of “close to but below” 2 percent. The ECB has signaled that it will raise its interest rates next week after keeping them at a record-low 1 percent since May 2009. Raising interest rates is a means of fighting inflation but can dampen economic growth.

UniCredit economist Alexander Koch noted that Japan’s earthquake and tsunami caused only a temporary

drop in oil prices, which were pushed higher by global economic growth and unrest in the Middle East.

“The sideways trend in inflation since the beginning of the year is definitely no sign of abating inflationary pressures and will not convince the ECB to back away again from its tightening bias,” Koch said. “Inflationary pressure has been mounting and should translate into a broad upward trend in underlying inflation in the course of this year,” he added. Earlier yesterday, a survey showed that fears of inflation were weighing on German consumer confidence, along with worries about Middle East unrest.

The GfK research group said its forward-looking confidence indicator stood at 5.9 points for April, down slightly from a revised value of 6 points in March. While overall consumer confidence remains very high, the potential impact of the events in Japan were not taken into account in the period the survey was conducted, the group said. — AP

LISBON: Brazil’s former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has some advice for Portuguese politicians: Don’t take the bailout. Portugal has so far defied calls from other European countries to accept help, even as its financial woes have deepened following last week’s resignation of the government.

Portugal is one of the 17-nation eurozone’s smallest and weakest economies, but its troubles could further unsettle investors worried about the bloc’s financial health.

Analysts estimate Portugal would need a bailout of up to 80 billion euros ($113 billion).

Silva said the even though Portugal is on the verge of financial collapse it should refuse assistance from the European bailout fund and the International Monetar y Fund because that would only increase austerity measures and reduce growth. Portugal has already enacted pay cuts and tax hikes that have triggered a wave of strikes, including a Lisbon subway stoppage yesterday, and lowered living standards.

“The IMF won’t resolve Portugal’s problem, like it didn’t solve Brazil’s,” Silva said late Monday during a trip to Portugal. “Whenever the IMF tried to take care of countries’ debts,

it created more problems than solutions.” The interest rate on Portugal’s 10-year bond continued to tick higher yesterday, hitting a new euro-era record of 7.97 percent as markets fretted over its ability to settle its debts and demanded high returns on Portuguese loans.

Brazil took a $41.5 billion IMF loan in 1998.

Like many emerging markets, the Latin American country has enjoyed an economic boom in recent years. Silva, who left office in January, is credited with generating wealth through a blend of fiscal discipline and innovative investment strategies designed to reduce poverty.

Silva didn’t elaborate on his IMF comments in Lisbon, but in the past he has criticized the institution for espousing “orthodox and recessive concepts.” Brazil’s current president, Dilma Roussef, said yesterday her country could come to the aid of Portugal, which in recent years has expanded its Brazilian investments. “Brazil could help Portugal like Portugal has helped Brazil,” Roussef was quoted as saying by the Portuguese news agency Lusa as she began a two-day visit to Portugal.

Portugal’s problems are getting worse by the day. The Bank of Portugal said in a report

Tuesday that even darker times lie ahead. It forecast the economy will contract 1.4 percent this year in a double-dip recession that has pushed the jobless rate to a record 11.2 percent. The central bank had previously projected a contraction of 1.3 percent this year.

It warned that its calculations didn’t include additional austerity measures that will be required to meet the country’s debtreduction goals this year and restore investor confidence in its fiscal soundness. It was not clear who in Portugal would have the authority to request a bailout, should one be needed. The outgoing minority government will likely take a caretaker role with limited powers while the country prepares for elections in late May or early June.

All parties have rejected a bailout, though they differ on how to lower national debt.

Portugal is in a race against time. It faces a 4.5 billion euros ($6.3 billion) repayment of an existing bond in April, which officials say they can meet, and then has to find 4.96 billion euros ($7 billion) for another repayment in June. It is not clear where the June funds will come from. — AP

RBS sees two British rate rises in 2011 LONDON: British lender Royal Bank of S cotland expec ts the Bank of England to raise interest rates twice this year even though the economic and market environment remains uncertain.

RBS said “two steady rate rises” should boost its net interest margin.

The comment was part of a presentation on its website that was prepared for chief executive Stephen Hester to deliver at a conference yesterday.

British inflation surged to a 28month high of 4.4 percent last month, reviving speculation the Bank of England will not wait much longer to raise interest rates. RBS, over 80 percent state-owned since a bailout during the financial crisis, also said: “All key group metrics (are) on or ahead of plan for this stage”, with

par ticular progress on group risk reduction. RBS said it was keeping its target of having a return on equity of more than 15 percent. “Return on equity targets look achievable but may be impacted by regulatory factors.” The Independent Commission on Banking (ICB) has been examining a shake-up of the banking sector that could include separating retail from investment banking.

While analysts and investors do not expect the ICB to recommend a full split, they have said it could recommend separate subsidiaries for the two activities. The RBS presentation said a subsidiarisation approach could result in higher capital requirements and funding costs.

RBS shares were down 0.9 percent at 1020 GMT. — Reuters

MADISON: In this file photo taken Nov. 9, 2005, a sign from the Kohl’s Department store is seen, in Madison, Wis. Kohl’s Corp. said yesterday it plans to open a distribution center in July that will create about 1,200 jobs over the next three years. —AP

Egyptian Resorts profit rises 18% on services

BEIJING: A bank teller counting Chinese currency 100 yuan notes in Beijing. Ministers and bankers from G20 nations meet in China to discuss challenges facing the world monetary system, but Beijing has ruled out one of the hottest topicsóits exchange rate regime. Host China has said its exchange rate system will not be up for discussion, despite ongoing criticism that its yuan currency is massively undervalued, giving it an unfair trade advantage.—AFP

CAIRO: Real estate company Egyptian Resorts reported an 18 percent rise in unconsolidated 2010 net profit and said it expected tourism to recover after taking a hit from the country’s political turmoil. The company has previously made most of its money selling land in a large plot on Egypt’s Red Sea coast to tourismfocused developers. But it has not sold any land since the third quarter of 2008, when the global financial crisis hurt the real state market.

Instead, revenue from its services operations, such as its water and waste management services, has boosted profit, Egyptian Resorts said.

The firm reported a 57 percent increase in the number of hotel units and apartments that it operates from a year earlier. Analysts also say forex gains and revenues from interest income were also likely to be behind the gain in net profit. While Egypt’s economy and its vital tourism sector have slowed since the mass protests that ousted President Hosni Mubarak erupted on Jan. 25, Egyptian Resorts was confident tourism would boom as soon as European travel bans were lifted and “as political reforms are made and stability returns”.

This would likely happen after presidential elections, it said. Egypt’s interim military rulers have said parliamentary elections will be held in September and presidential elections soon after. — Reuters

‘My First Banking Knowledge’ presentation from CBK to BBS KUWAIT: The Commercial Bank of Kuwait continues on its school road show that started in February by having the Grade 7 students from the Bayan Bilingual School visit the bank’s special South Surra branch last week to attend a unique presentation created and conducted by the bank called My First Banking Knowledge.

It discusses the importance and benefits of saving money as well as other topics and the students from BBS greatly benefited from the useful lessons that were conveyed in the presentation.

The Commercial Bank of Kuwait created the presentation and made sure that it wasn’t too difficult for kids to understand but still had all the necessary information on why it is important to save money. It also talked about online banking, ATMs, the bank’s kids and youth accounts, as well as interest and the various services that the bank provides. After the presentation, the kids are taken on a tour of the

branch where they explore the kid’s corner and are shown how an ATM machine works. Each student is also awarded with a certificate signifying that they have completed the My First Banking Knowledge presentation as well as receiving a special gift.

Staff from the bank’s Marketing department were present at the South Surra branch to make sure that the visiting students from BBS had a beneficial time during their visit and received important life lessons from this very special presentation. The Commercial Bank of Kuwait considers the younger generation a vital aspect in shaping Kuwait’s bright future which is why the bank constantly strives to educate young Kuwaitis in many ways and help pave their way to success and happiness. Due the positive responses that CBK is getting from all the schools, the presentations will continue until June.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

BUSINESS

Bulls turn bears on India as doubts grow NEW DELHI: Investors have turned bearish on India despite government forecasts of nine percent economic growth, as concerns over widespread corruption and high inflation knock confidence, analysts say.

Only a few months ago investors were pouring into Indian equities, seeing the country as a promising highgrowth market and talking about the “India story”. But now the mood looks to be on the turn.

The government’s lack of progress on economic reform, massive corruption scandals including the cut-price sale of telecoms licenses, and eight interest rate hikes to try to tame high inflation have all had an impact.

Citigroup economist Rohini Malkani said she had met some 50 investors in Singapore and Hong Kong this month and about 70 percent were “bearish on India”. Fears about

reduced investment in infrastructure, high inflation and the fallout from political scandals topped the list of investor worries, she said.

The Bombay Stock Exchange Sensitive Index or Sensex has dropped more than eight percent this year, making it Asia’s worst large market performer-after it climbed 17 percent last year on the back of $29 billion poured in by foreign investors. Foreign institutional investors sold $2 billion worth of shares in January and February.

“Concerns about stubbornly high inflation pushing up interest rates, a high current deficit fuelled by higher oil prices, and corporate and government corruption scandals have all contributed to the selling,” said Deepak Lalwani, head of Londonbased, India-focused investment consultancy Lalcap. Market analysts

expect that for the first half of 2011 at least, shares will continue to slide as the challenge of maintaining growth while cutting inflation, now at 8.3 percent, proves increasingly tough.

India’s central bank, the most aggressive in Asia in tightening monetary policy, lifted its benchmark borrowing rate to 6.75 percent this month-its highest level in three years.

While the government projects nine percent expansion for the next fiscal year starting April 1, most economists’ forecasts are lower amid expectations the bank will raise rates further by as much 100 basis points, slowing investment and growth.

Credit Suisse economist Robert Prior-Wandesforde said he believed growth could decelerate to 7.7 percent next year from 8.6 percent in the current year as resurgent oil prices and rate rises take their toll.

Citigroup’s Malkani said she had pencilled in a “relatively optimistic 8.4 percent” growth forecast but calculates that expansion under a worsecase scenario could be just 7.2 percent if investment were to slump sharply.

On top of economic worries, concerns about governance loom large, with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh portrayed by the opposition as a weak leader presiding over a corrupt administration. Global consultancy KPMG said in a report that “corruption could be a major hurdle in India’s growth story in the coming decade”.

“From what started as petty payments demanded by babus (civil servants) during the license raj days, corruption has taken a much larger form and scale,” said Deepankar Sanwalka, KPMG India’s head of risk and compliance.

“It is not about petty bribes or ‘bak-

shish’ any more, but scams to the tune of billions of dollars that highlight a political-industry nexus which if not checked could have a far reaching impact.”

At the heart of corruption concerns is the once high-flying telecoms sector, with an ex-telecom minister alleged to have cost the treasury up to $40 billion by selling off mobile licences at low prices in exchange for kickbacks.

Graft is also rampant in property and construction, KPMG found. “The corruption scandals which have paralyzed government have tainted India’s image as an investment destination,” said Lalcap’s Lalwani.

“But foreign investors may benefit from many Indian businessmen’s observation over the years that the country continues to grow-despite the government.” — AFP

British economy shrinks 0.5% Austerity drive could hinder growth: analysts

BEIJING: China Southern Airlines and Eastern Airlines planes park at the tarmac of the Beijing Capital International airport in Beijing. China Southern Airlines yesterday said net profit soared 17-fold in 2010 on the back of surging demand for air travel in the world’s second-largest economy. — AFP

Western DIY outlets retreat in China BEIJING: At a near-empty B&Q home improvement outlet in Beijing, much of the foot traffic is due to the location of a public toilet next to the entrance-not the store’s patio furniture or circular saws.

It’s a sign of how foreign “do-it-yourself ” big-box chains have struggled to attract customers in China, where homeowners have little experience in renovating apartments and prefer to pay low-wage decorators to do it for them.

“Do-it-yourself is not popular in China,” Shaun Rein, managing director of China Market Research Group, told AFP. “The feeling in China is that if you do it yourself that means you are a peasant-not the sturdy, manly image DIY chains have crafted in the US.” Despite China’s booming property sales and a home-improvement market growing 15 percent a year and worth $100 billion in 2009, such chains have been forced to pare back operations in China-or leave the country altogether. UK-based B&Q, whose website describes it as “the market leader in China,” entered the Chinese market in 1999, but in 2009 abruptly closed 22 of its 63 stores.Meanwhile US giant Home Depot, which entered China in 2006, has shuttered nearly half its outlets, leaving it with just seven. The latest casualty of the tough Chinese home-decorating market is French construction group Saint-Gobain, which said this month it had closed all of its La Maison building material stores.

Analysts said overseas executives mistakenly assumed they could replicate the Western big-box model in China, where many people are renovating for the first time and have little experience using power tools.

“A lot of apartments in China are concrete boxes and have to be decorated from scratch-very few homeowners know how to do that themselves,” Zhou Wei, chief financial officer of advertising agency Charm Communications, told AFP. These foreign retailers have also stocked products such as garden hoses, picnic tables and barbecues-poor sellers in a country where people live largely in apartments with no balconies.

Rein said that on some of the few DIY items that do sell in China, both B&Q and Home Depot priced themselves out of the local market by charging much more than Chinese competitors.

In the Beijing B&Q store, bored sales assistants far outnumbered customers. An employee said this was normal for a weekday but it was busier at the weekends-thanks to the smelly public toilet.

One of the shop’s few customers, a man surnamed Ding, said he wanted to buy “important items” like pipe fittings for an apartment he was renovating, as he believed they would be better quality at a foreign outlet, albeit more expensive.

For everything else, he said he would get an interior designer to buy at Chinese stores where prices would be cheaper. Home Depot spokesman Ron DeFeo admitted the company had made mistakes since entering the Chinese market more than four years ago and had since “learned a lot”. “Our stores were modelled after the US market and its DIY format, but China is more of a DIFM (do-it-for-me) market,” DeFeo told AFP. Another problem, according to Saint-Gobain spokesman Nicolas Nie, is that more and more homes sold in major cities such as Shanghai were already decorated, reducing the “prospect to serve individual customers”.

B&Q did not respond to AFP requests for comment.

Foreign home-improvement stores are not alone in their struggle to find the right formula for consumers in the country of more than 1.3 billion people. US toy maker Mattel this month shut the world’s first and only Barbie concept store in Shanghai, while US consumer electronics giant Best Buy abruptly closed its self-branded stores last month.

Analysts said some overseas companies have been left in the dust by Chinese rivals who have opened more outlets across the country, secured better locations and enjoy stronger bargaining power with local manufacturers. But some firms such as Swedish furniture giant Ikea appear to have found the right mix-it plans to more than double its number of stores in China from the current eight by 2015. —AFP

LONDON: Britain’s economy shrank slightly less than previously thought late last year, official data showed yesterday, but analysts warned that the government’s austerity drive would hinder growth in 2011. Gross domestic product (GDP) contracted 0.5 percent between October and December compared with the third quarter, as cold weather hampered the construction industry, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said.

Its third and final estimate was a slight improvement on the second estimate published last month, which said GDP had contracted by 0.6 percent. An initial figure in January matched the final reading of minus 0.5 percent.

Economists surveyed by Dow Jones Newswires had forecast no revision to the final figure.

“GDP growth contracted by 0.5 percent in the latest quarter, revised from a fall of 0.6 percent previously published,” the ONS said in a statement. It added that between October and December, GDP was an unrevised 1.5 percent higher compared with the fourth quarter of 2009.

“Slightly lesser GDP contraction than previously reported in the fourth quarter of 2010 does not fundamentally change the UK economic story,” said Howard Archer, chief European economist at research group IHS Global Insight. “The data still show that the economy suffered a marked loss of momentum at the end of 2010, which could not be attributed solely to December’s bad weather.

“As such, the data fuel concerns over the underlying strength of the economy-particularly as the fiscal squeeze had only nibbled rather than really started to bite in the fourth quarter of 2010.”

Britain’s Conservative-Liberal Democrat government is slashing state spending in a bid to virtually eliminate a record public deficit it inherited from the previous Labour administration after winning power last year.

Critics say the coalition’s austerity drive is stunting Britain’s recovery from recession, while the government last week lowered its official forecast for 2011 GDP

growth to 1.7 percent from an earlier estimate of 2.1 percent.

The Treasury said yesterday’s figures proved the government’s plans were working and claimed that measures outlined in last week’s budget would help the economy grow. “This upward revision to growth continues to show the manufacturing sector performing well, which, supported by the actions announced in the budget and the plan for growth,” said a spokesman.

TOKYO: A man walks in front of the electronic stock board of a securities firm in Tokyo yesterday. The benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average lost 139.55 points, to end morning session at 9338.98. — AP

Cost of disasters tripled in 2010, says Swiss Re ZURICH: The global cost of natural and man-made disasters more than tripled in 2010 to $218 billion (154 billion euros), reinsurer Swiss Re said yesterday, with the human toll the highest for decades.

“2010 was not only characterized by severe earthquakes that ranked among the deadliest, costliest and most powerful in history, but also by a series of extreme weather events, such as major floods,” said Thomas Hess, chief e economist of Swiss Re. Such “severe catastrophes” claimed 304,000 lives last year the highest level since 1976, compared to 15,000 in 2009, the report added.

These disasters cost the global insurance industry over $43 billion in 2010, up more than 60 percent from the previous year.

Economists, however, cast doubt on the government’s optimism. “The underlying economic picture is weak,” noted Daiwa Capital Markets analyst Hetal Mehta, who yesterday forecast 2011 first-quarter growth of just 0.4 percent. And Spreadex trader Phil Gillett said that given weak consumer confidence in Britain, “we could be see further contraction for Q1 2011 and this would mean the UK is officially back in recession.” — AFP

Earthquake losses-in particular those in Chile and New Zealandaccounted for almost a third of all disaster losses in 2010, and high claims from seismic activity are expected to continue in 2011.

“Incidentally, earthquake losses for 2011 will also be above average as the total insured claims for the February 22 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, are estimated to be between $6 billion and $12 billion,” said the reinsurer.

“The massive Tohoku earthquake that struck Sendai, Japan on March 11 is also expected to trigger significant insured losses,” it added. Swiss Re estimated last week that Japan’s earthquake and tsunami have cost the company some $1.2 billion, but warned that this figure could be revised upwards.

“Although no long-term trend of increasing global earthquake activity has emerged, the number of fatalities and insured losses from earthquakes are on the rise,” said Balz Grollimumd, who co-authored Swiss Re’s study on disasters.

“The main reasons are population growth, the higher number of people living in urban areas as well as rising wealth and rapidly increasing exposures. Many of these rapidly growing urban areas are located in seismically active areas,” he noted.

More than 222,000 people were killed in Haiti’s earthquake, the deadliest disaster in 2010. The $218 billion worldwide economic losses from natural and man-made catastrophes last year compared to $68 billion incurred in 2009, Swiss Re said. — AFP

GUETERSLOH: The headquarters of Germany media company Bertelsmann is pictured in Guetersloh, western Germany. German media group Bertelsmann AG reported yesterday a strong rebound in earnings for last year thanks to stronger TV advertising in Europe — and Stieg Larsson’s crime novels. Profits rose to euro 656 million ($924 million) from only euro 35 million the year before. Revenue was up 4.5 percent to euro 15.78 billion. —AP

US questions value of early Doha trade text GENEVA: Divided global trade negotiators risk moving further apart if a revised text on a global deal is pushed through by Easter as planned, the United States told World Trade Organization (WTO) delegates yesterday.

The United States’ disputes with China over tariffs, access and subsidies constitute some of the main sticking points holding up a deal in the decade-old Doha round of trade talks.

But the US, led by Ambassador Michael Punke, told delegates at a WTO meeting that “those consultations were not the full extent of the US concerns,” according to a delegate who was in the meeting but did not want to be named. The US intervention also said that “a revised text might exacerbate problems,” according to the delegate.

WTO Director General Pascal Lamy gave delegates in the same closed-door meeting one of his starkest warnings yet that time was running out for Doha.

“He pretty much said ‘you need to decide what you are going to do. Are you going to do this thing or not,’” said another delegate who left the meeting early for another appointment.

Lamy was opening an informal session of the WTO’s Trade Negotiations Committee, which has special responsibility for the Doha round and reports back to the WTO’s General Council.

The ambitious negotiations are aimed at opening up world trade for the benefit of all nations, but they are stalled on a series of sticking points over tariffs, subsidies and market access.

Lamy has repeatedly said progress is too slow.

The latest deadline negotiators have set themselves is a deal by the end of this year, since elections in some key countries including the United States could cause problems in 2012 and the talks are already years late in reaching a conclusion.

They hope to have a viable text ready to take to ministers by Easter, now less than a month away.

The first delegate said he doubted success this year, but that saving face for the WTO was important. “It will be about how failure is framed,” he said. A Geneva newspaper on Tuesday pronounced the talks “dead”.

“The Doha round is dead, but Pascal Lamy doesn’t want to recognize it,” Le Temps quoted a senior trade diplomat as saying. — Reuters

31

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

TECHNOLOGY

Bloggers join hands to create Japan ‘Quakebook’ OSAKA: Inspired by a desire to help victims of Japan’s deadly earthquake, a group of bloggers and writers have come together through the Internet to create a book of stories about the disaster. The result, “Quakebook”, is a moving collection of photos, memories and reflections about the massive tremor and monster tsunami that demonstrates the power of the web to unite people around the world in times of tragedy.

The project is the brainchild of a British man living in Japan who blogs under the name “Our Man in Abiko” on websites such as Twitter, where the project uses the hashtag #quakebook. On March 18, a week after the tsunami hit Japan’s northeast coast, he sent a tweet saying: “I want to compile a book of quake experiences and publish it in a week and donate all profits to Red Cross. We have the technology. “If everyone wrote 250 wordsone page-or submitted their favorite (original) tweets, pics or artwork, I could edit, publish it in days,” added the resident of Chiba Prefecture just east of Tokyo, who prefers to keep his identity secret to preserve the collaborative spirit of the project.

“I was having a shower thinking, here we are relatively unscathed and we’re doing nothing and it’s infuriating,” he said. “There’s a massive crisis on my doorstep and I couldn’t forgive myself if I didn’t do something to help.”

Less than 45 minutes after his first tweet, he received the first contribution. “That gave me

a clue. I thought: I’m on to something here.

I’ve hit a raw nerve,” he said. More than 200 people have been involved in the project, including volunteer editors and translators from as far afield as the United States and Ireland.

“The reason it works is because we all want to do something. It’s very therapeutic for people to tell their stories. They feel like they’ve been ignored or forgotten,” its creator said. “It’s been great. You realize you’re not alone. And that’s maybe even more valuable than anything else.” The project has received dozens of contributions from Japanese nationals, expatriates as well as people watching the tragedy unfold from overseas. “I have been around Tokyo for 15 years and I feel I am needed here now more than ever. The decision whether to stay is the most complex one I have ever had to make in my life,” wrote Tokyo resident Dan Castellano.

“Japan is my adopted home. I would not leave a burning house alone if my family were still inside,” he said, according to excerpts on the project ’s blog http://quakebook.blogspot.com. The 9.0-magnitude earthquake which crashed into Japan’s northeast coast at 2:46 pm on March 11 has now left more than 28,000 people dead or missing and triggered a nuclear emergency at the Fukushima power plant. Hundreds of thousands more have been left homeless and are now living in temporary shelters, while

many others have been affected by food shortages and rolling power blackouts.

Some of the Quakebook contributors, like Yuki Watanabe, a Fukushima native now living in Tokyo, have family in the affected zone. “My parents’ house is within 40 kilometers of the Fukushima nuclear plant. They’ve been told they must stay indoors. Although the house wasn’t greatly damaged by the earthquake or tsunami, as the house is built on solid ground, they have to contend with the problem of radiation,” she wrote. “What have we done to deserve this? We are suffering like others in disaster affected areas. The difference is we have an unnatural and unseen danger to deal with. Please don’t abandon Fukushima,” she pleaded.

It’s a project that would not have been possible in such a short space of time before the explosion in social networking sites like Twitter. “We’ve talked to people in Fukushima and Miyagi (another devastated area), all through tweeting, blogging and through technology,” the Quakebook creator said.

“I think people are responding because we are amateurs. People are opening up. We finished it in one week so memories are fresh and the emotions are still raw.” “Quakebook (2:46: Aftershocks: Stories from the Japan Earthquake)” will be available soon to download online via the blog site and later in a print edition, possibly through Amazon, with proceeds going to the Red Cross. — AFP

TOKYO: This illustration created by James White and released yesterday in Tokyo shows the cover of “Quakebook”, a book of stories about the earthquake and tsunami by bloggers and writers who came together through the Internet. — AFP

‘LePad’ tablet launched LePad-powered by Google’s Android software

WASHINGTON: File photo shows the Internet site of Amazon.com. US online retail giant Amazon has launched a “cloud” service for storing videos and music online, enabling individuals to access their files from a range of digital devices, the Wall Street Journal said. — AFP

Amazon launches online media storage service SAN FRANCISCO: Amazon.com wants to be more than a destination for shopping online - it also dreams of being a place where you can store your music, photos and videos and access them any time, from any computer. The online retailer launched two new offerings late Monday: Amazon Cloud Drive and Amazon Cloud Player.

The first lets you upload and store files like music, videos and photos on Amazon’s servers, which you can get to from a Web browser on a Mac or PC. The second lets you play songs you’ve uploaded on your computer or on a smartphone that runs Google’s Android operating software. The “cloud” in the services’ names refers to the practice of storing content online and streaming it to a computer over the Internet.

Amazon’s move is beating Google Inc and Apple Inc, which are believed to be working on similar services that would allow consumers to access their content when away from their home computer.

While Amazon will charge for the Cloud Drive service, it’s offering anyone with an Amazon account 5 gigabytes of free storage. That’s less space than you’d get on the smallest iPod Touch, but it’s a move that’s likely to woo plenty of users who might later decide to pay for more storage space.

The Seattle-based company, which already runs an online storage service for companies called Amazon S3, decided to roll out a consumer cloud service to make it easier for customers to access digital content no matter where they are,

Amazon music director Craig Pape said.

The offerings could also benefit Amazon’s bottom line: The company realized customers were hesitant to purchase MP3s at work because they didn’t want them tied to their office computer, Pape said, so Cloud Drive and Cloud Player may drive more impulse music shopping.

“At the end of the day we’re trying to delight customers, but we’re trying to sell more music, too,” he said. The company also wants to sell cloud storage. If your tunes and videos take up more space than the 5 GB Amazon is giving out, you can pay an annual storage fee to use Cloud Drive: The use of 20 GB of storage, for example, will cost $20 (and this includes the 5 free GB). For an undisclosed period of time, however, Amazon is offering 20 GB of free storage to those who buy a digital album from its Amazon MP3 store.

Documents or videos you’ve uploaded to Cloud Drive will open with programs on the computer you’re using, Pape said, while songs in MP3 or AAC files will be playable through the Webbased Cloud Player.

The player offers simple controls - you can play, pause or skip tracks, or build your own playlists. For users who want to listen while on the go, an updated version of the Amazon MP3 digital musicbuying app will include Cloud Player, letting users play music they’ve stored with Amazon’s service on their cell phone as well as tunes that are already on their handsets. — AP

SHANGHAI: Chinese computer giant Lenovo has warned that supplies of its just-released tablet computer could be restricted after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan disrupted production of memory chips. The LePad-powered by Google’s Android software -was launched in China on Monday at a Chinesemedia only event as Lenovo seeks to compete for a share of an increasingly crowded market dominated by Apple’s iPad. Lenovo will begin selling LePad directly to Chinese consumers this week through its own retail stores and will put it on sale outside China by June, spokesman Jay Chen told Dow Jones Newswires.

But Lenovo vice president Chen Xudong said stocks of the devices could be hit after the twin disaster in Japan led to the supply squeeze, the firm said. The quake-tsunami on March 11 led to the closure of hundreds of factories in Japan and the breaking of supply chains crucial to making cars, electronic gadgets and machinery. Lenovo did not how long the possible disruption could last. The news comes after research firm IHS iSuppli said last week that Apple could face shortages of components for its new iPad 2 because of the earthquake and tsunami. Other companies are facing similar problems. ZTE Corp, a Chinese maker of telecoms equipment, said last week it expected supply problems from Japan to last for the next three to six months.

Lenovo said in a statement that it was aggressively pursuing the mobile Internet device business and established a special division-the Mobile Internet and Digital Home Business Group-this year to better compete.” The LePad is the first major launch since the business group’s founding, we are confident in it and will continue to enrich its product line with better performing products and a richer selection of styles,” Lenovo said.

In addition to the iPad, Lenovo’s new tablet will compete against gadgets from other major electronics companies such as Dell, Samsung Electronics and BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion.

It faces tough competition. Apple’s iPad accounted for 73 percent of the global tablet market in the fourth quarter, according to data from IDC intelligence firm while Samsung’s Galaxy Tab had more than 17 percent market share. LePad-which was first unveiled in January at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas-has a 10.1-inch (26 centimeter) color screen and connects to the Internet using WiFi or 3G telecom services.

In China, models equipped with WiFi wireless technology will carry a recommended price tag of 3,499 yuan ($533) for the 16-gigabyte version, the company said.

American Express makes digital wallets SAN FRANCISCO: American Express has launched an online financial transactions service that it claims goes beyond what others provide in a market dominated by PayPal. “Serve” went live in the United States and was to expand to other countries in the coming year.

“Serve is a new type of payment platform that isn’t tied to a single card or mobile operating system,” said American Express enterprise

growth group vice president Dan Schulman.

“We intend to quickly evolve the Serve platform by adding new features and functionality as we learn from consumer and merchant experiences.” Serve essentially turns smartphones into digital wallets for people who rely on cash, checks, or bank debit cards. Serve applications were available for iPhones and smartphones pow-

Australian PM’s computer hacked SYDNEY: Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s parliamentary computer and the foreign and defense ministers’ machines are all suspected of being hacked, with China under suspicion, reports said yesterday.

Sydney’s Daily Telegraph said American intelligence officials tipped off the government that several thousand emails may have been accessed from the computers of at least 10 ministers. As well as Gillard, they reportedly included Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd and Defense Minister Stephen Smith.

The paper said the espionage occurred over more than a month, beginning in February. “Four separate government sources confirmed that they had been told Chinese intelligence agencies were among a list of foreign hackers that are under suspicion,” it said. One of the sources said the revelations were “deeply concerning”. “These

It did not say when it would go on sale, but pre-orders began on March 16. Lenovo, which bought IBM’s PC business in 2004 for $1.25 billion, had roughly 27 percent of its home market last year and was ranked fourth globally with a share of about eight percent, IDC said. Research firm Gartner estimates total tablet shipments will reach 54.8 million units in 2011, draining demand for laptops and notebook computers. Apple sold 15 million iPads last year, generating $10 billion in revenue and establishing the multi-tasking device as a “must-have” consumer item for many. — AFP

claims need to be examined seriously,” they said. Security experts cited by another News Limited newspaper, The Australian, said they believed the hackers may have been looking for clues on government attitudes to major resource projects.

Intelligent Risk chief executive Neil Fergus said interest in Australian commercial secrets may have prompted the attacks.

“There are massive resources projects on the drawing board in Australia, they loom very large in the thinking of a number of other countries,” he said. “Whether we green-light projects is of critical importance. I would not understate the possibility of that, given Australia’s resources boom and its importance to a number of our key trading partners.”

Attorney-General Robert McClelland refused to confirm or deny the incident. “It’s

the long standing practice of successive Australian governments not to comment on the operations of security and intelligence agencies,” he said in a statement. “Australia’s security and intelligence agencies, as a matter of course, work closely and co-operatively with their international counterparts on cyber security. “The Australian government takes the issue of cyber security very seriously and is constantly strengthening cyber security measures,” he said.

Gillard similarly refused to comment when asked by reporters in Perth. “We don’t comment on intelligence matters,” she said. China, meanwhile, denied the claims. “Any accusations against the Chinese government are believed to be groundless and made out of ulterior purposes,” foreign ministry spokeswoman Jiang Yu told reporters. — AFP

ered by Google-backed Android software. The service was also tailored for use at online venues such as social networking service Facebook.

Serve accounts could be tied to bank accounts, payment cards, or funded by money sent through peer-to-peer transactions between users of the service. Serve could be used to settle bills at merchants that accept American Express

cards. American Express billed Serve as a “digital payment and commerce platform that gives consumers a new way to spend, send and receive money with services that go beyond the existing global payment network.” The Serve platform was based on technology American Express acquired when it bought online financial network Revolution Money in early 2010 in a deal valued at $300 million. — AFP

Nokia sues Apple again over patents HELSINKI: Nokia is suing Apple in the United States for allegedly infringing patents in “virtually all” of its mobile phones, portable music players, tablets and computers, the Finnish company said yesterday. The move is the latest in a string of lawsuits by Nokia and comes as the world’s largest handset maker struggles to keep up with smartphone rivals like Apple. Nokia said the seven patents in the new complaint relate to its “pioneering innovations” that Apple allegedly is using “to create key features in its products, including in multitasking operating systems, data synchronization, positioning, call quality and the use of Bluetooth accessories.” Last week, the United States International Trade Commission found no violation in an

earlier complaint. Nokia said it “is waiting to see the full details of the ruling before deciding on the next steps in that case.” Last year, Nokia Corp also sued Apple Inc in Britain, Germany and the Netherlands for allegedly infringing its patents with technology used in the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. Those followed earlier lawsuits by Nokia claiming that a broad swath of Apple products violate its patents.

Apple had earlier responded with its own infringement claims against Nokia.

“Our latest ITC filing means we now have 46 Nokia patents in suit against Apple, many filed more than 10 years before Apple made its first iPhone,” said Paul Melin, vice president of intellectual property at Nokia. — AP

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South Africa takes heat for burning coal Africa’s largest economy overhauls its energy policy JOHANNESBURG: The global fight over fossil fuels has hit home in South Africa as the coaldependent country debates its energy future before hosting UN climate talks later this year.

Africa’s largest economy is overhauling its energy policy, looking to more than double its power supply by adding more than 50,000 megawatts of electricity to the grid at a cost of 860 billion rand ($125 billion, 90 billion euros).

But as the country seeks to ease power shortages that caused paralyzing blackouts in 2008, environmentalists say it is not doing enough to cut its reliance on coal-fired power-currently more than 90 percent of the electricity supply.

The scrutiny is intensifying as South Africa prepares to host the next major round of United Nations climate talks in the eastern port city of Durban from November 28 to December 9.

The talks-the successor to the Kyoto Protocol and last year’s conference in Cancun, Mexico-will see global leaders try to make meaningful progress toward a binding international agreement to curb climate change. The meetings will be key in deciding the future of the Kyoto emissions targets, which expire next year.

Environmentalists say South African President Jacob Zuma faces embarrassment at the talks if his government doesn’t move to massively slash the country’s dependence on coal.

“What is the president going to do?” asked Richard Worthington, head of the climate program at World Wildlife Fund South Africa. “Say, ‘Oh, welcome to South Africa, we want to play a leadership role on climate change. But excuse us, we’re not going to do what we said we’d do in

Copenhagen and Cancun.’ I don’t think the president wants to be in that position.” South Africa had pledged at the 2009 talks in Copenhagen to cut emissions 42 percent by 2025. But the country’s draft energy plan proposed cutting carbon emissions just 30 percent by 2030.

Zuma’s cabinet last week approved a new version of the plan that officials said would scale up renewable and nuclear energy, with new power generation coming 42 percent from renewable sources, 23 percent from nuclear and just 15 percent from coal.

But the full plan will not be released until late March, and it is still unclear what emissions levels or the final electricity mix will be. “It appears that the department of energy would like to portray themselves as being more serious about renewables than they really are,” Worthington said.

South Africa has announced plans to develop the world’s largest solar project, a 5,000-megawatt plant in the arid Northern Cape province, and is betting heavily on nuclear power. But it has also been criticized for forging ahead with construction of the new 4,800-megawatt Medupi coalfired power plant. Greenpeace Africa called on the continent’s biggest polluter-South Africa emits 38 percent of Africa’s carbon-to set an example by cutting its coal use.

“The true cost of coal has not been determined. It might seem cheap now, but it’s really not. There’s no such thing as clean coal,” said Greenpeace Africa spokeswoman Fiona Musana.

“Come Durban, Greenpeace will be looking to South Africa to really show the steps that it’s been taking. We’ll be holding them to account.”

JOHANNESBURG: Steam billows from Kempton Park Power Station in Johannesburg. The global fight over fossil fuels has hit home in South Africa as the coal-dependent country debates its energy future. — AFP But Latsoucabe Fall, Africa manager for the 93country World Energy Council, said it is unfair to ask South Africa to abandon coal and risk falling behind other emerging economies. “South Africa is well-endowed in coal resources. It cannot

EU talks on banning food from cloned animals fail

abandon coal resources. China is not abandoning coal. India is not abandoning coal,” he said. “Clean energy should be developed in Africa, but this should not compromise the development of the continent.” — AFP

China, Germany move ahead on clean energy US drops to 3rd in clean-energy

More than 60% think cloning is ‘morally wrong’ BRUSSELS: European Union negotiators yesterday abandoned widely popular new legislation that would have banned cloning animals to produce food after all-night talks bogged down in disagreement. Last-ditch negotiations ended at 7 am after representatives of the European Parliament and the EU governments could not find a compromise on how to treat the offspring of cloned animals - despite overwhelming agreement on banning food from the actual clone. The collapse of talks caps three years of back and forth between the parliament and the European Council, which represents the 27 EU states, on the so-called “novel food” regulation. It leaves the EU with its 1997 law that requires special authorization for food from cloned animals, but does not ban it.

More than 60 percent of EU citizens think animal cloning is “morally wrong,” while 84 percent are concerned that the long-term effects of animal cloning on nature are unknown, according to an EU survey from 2008.

However, Sandor Fazekas, Hungary’s minister of rural development who was leading negotiations for the Council, said the parliament’s demand to include the meat and other products from descendants of cloned animals in the ban was “misleading” and “unfeasible.” Even requiring clear labeling for food derived from the descendants of cloned animals “in practice would have required drawing a family tree for each slice of cheese or salami,” Fazekas said in a statement.

“This ‘solution’ would have given a false sense of security to consumers and risked dragging us into a full blown trade war,” he added. The European Commission, which proposed the original regulation in 2008, said there was no scientific proof of negative health effects from eating cloned animals, but added that there were animal welfare issues with cloning. “From the first offspring onwards there is no animal welfare issue, said John Dalli, the commissioner for health and consumer policy.

That’s why the Commission proposed a temporary ban of cloning to produce food in the EU as well as the banning the import of such food, Dalli said. However, Dalli did not give outright support to the Council’s claim that labeling food from the offspring of cloned animals would break international trade rules, saying only that any regulation on that would

KABUL: Afghans prepare to make a famous Afghan food “Kabab” at a restaurant in Jalalabad, Nangarhar province, east of Kabul, Afghanistan. — AP have required a feasibility study that would have looked into trade issues. The parliament meanwhile slammed member states’ unwillingness to compromise. “I am shocked by the approach of the EU ministers and their disregard for the will of EU citizens,” said Dagmar Roth-Berendt, a member of the European Parliament for the European Socialists, who took part in the 12-hour-long marathon talks. “Cloning is unnecessary and ethically unjustifiable.

We do not live in a state of emergency where sheep, pigs and cows have to produce bigger proceeds.” She said the failure to come up with new legislation will hurt European consumers and risks Europe being flooded with “billions of liters of cloned milk.” Other MEPs said focusing just on the actual clones defeated the purpose of the legislation, since it was the offspring of clones that was much more likely to be used for food. “It is little more than window-dressing to ban cloning in Europe but allow the import of reproductive material from clones and selling food from the offspring of clones,” said Bart Staes, an MEP for the Green Party. — AP

China set to outstrip US in science research output LONDON: China has shot to second place in the number of articles published in international science magazines and in a few years will take the top spot from the United States, according to a new report. “China has already overtaken the UK as the second leading producer of research publications, but some time before 2020 it is expected to surpass the USA,” said the report by the Royal Society in London. While the top 10 is still dominated by the major Western powers, their share of research papers published is falling, the report said. And as well as China, Brazil and India are coming up fast.

“The USA leads the world in research, producing 20 percent of the world’s authorship of research papers, dominating world university league tables, and investing nearly $400 billion per year in public and private research and development,” said the report released Monday. ”The UK, Japan, Germany and France each also command strong positions in the global league tables, producing high quality publications and attracting researchers to their world class universities and research institutes,” it added. But while these five countries alone produced 59 percent of all spending on science globally, their dominant position was nevertheless slipping. China shot up from sixth place in the period 1999-2003 (4.4 percent of the total) to second place behind the United States with 10.2 percent over the years 2004-08, overtaking Japan. — AFP

TEXAS: A bison bull donated by media mogul Ted Turner grazes at Caprock Canyons State Park in Texas. Six years ago inbreeding threatened to destroy the last remaining vestige of the Southern plains bison herd that roams the state park, which was once part of celebrated rancher Charles Goodnight’s JA Ranch in the Texas Panhandle. Researchers now say the donation of a few bulls from Turner seems to have done the trick. The herd has increased to 75 bison and there’s no longer an immediate risk of extinction. — AP

WASHINGTON: Germany has outpaced the United States as the number two player in clean energy while China keeps racing ahead as the world’s green investment leader, a study said yesterday. The survey by the Pew Charitable Trusts found strong growth on a global scale for solar, wind and other renewable energy, although one major exception was Britain, which saw a sharp decline after a new government took charge. “What we believe it all comes down to, frankly, is policy,” said Phyllis Cuttino, director of the Pew Clean Energy Program.

“Germany and China have ambitious renewable energy standards and, certainly in the case of Germany, they also have a feed-in tariff that’s really helped them,” she said, referring to incentive payments to produce green power. China, which a year earlier topped the United States as the green leader, saw no stop to its growth.

Clean energy investment reached $54.4 billion in 2010, up 39 percent from the previous year, the Pew report said. The study estimated that China-which is fighting severe pollution and its dubious distinction as the top producer of carbon emissions blamed for climate change-now produces nearly half of the world’s wind and solar modules.

Germany’s clean energy investment doubled to $41.2 billion, bringing the country to second place, the study said. Germany ramped up both solar and wind power-especially small solar projects that added up when viewed together. Despite slipping to third, the United States still enjoyed 51 percent growth in clean energy investment, the study said.

The United States plays a leading role in innovation and capital for green energy, but lags behind in manufacturing, the study said. The survey also reported a more than doubling of investment in clean energy both in Italy, which came in fourth overall, and Australia, which ranked 12th.

But Britain witnessed a 70 percent

decline in clean energy investment, slipping out of the top 10, as businesses hesitated at offshore wind projects after Prime Minister David Cameron took over with a mission to trim spending. “Certainly the coalition government has given investors a signal that things are uncertain and that’s the way investors reacted,” Cuttino said. Indonesia and South Korea also saw declines in clean energy investment, although the study’s authors said it was possible the nations would rebound due to their policy directions. In Japan, whose clean energy industry consists almost exclusively of solar, investment rose a modest 10 percent but Cuttino predicted future growth as the world’s third largest economy has set ambitious goals over the next decade.

The research was conducted before Japan’s devastating March 11 earthquake, which set off a crisis at a nuclear plant that has brought new scrutiny worldwide to atomic energy.

The United States experienced growth in clean energy even though effor ts led by President Barack Obama’s Democratic Party to mandate cuts in carbon emissions died last year in Congress. The Obama administration has hoped to find common ground with the rival Republican Party to encourage clean energy without focusing on climate change itself-an issue that is deeply controversial in Congress.

US Energy Secretary Steven Chu said last week that he expected wind and solar energy to become cost competitive with new oil and gas projects by the end of the decade.

Former governor Jennifer Granholm, a Democrat of Michigan, said companies that invested in her economically hard-hit state in the 18 months to December were projected to create 63,000 green jobs. “That’s not chump change,” she said at a Pew event. “We have a choice as Americans-we can decide that we’re going to take advantage and get into the game of this huge growth, or we can do what we’ve been doing.”— AFP

Adolescent death rates outpace child mortality Injury, violence, suicide main causes of adolescent death LONDON: Medical progress and global efforts to reduce infant and child mortality have reversed historical trends and mean that death rates among adolescents are now higher than in children, researchers said yesterday. Looking at data from 50 countries over the second half of the 20th century, the study found the majority of deaths in young people was through incidents such as car accidents or reckless behavior-and that violence and suicide have also become key causes of death in this group.

The findings, published in the Lancet medical journal, partly reflect success in reducing death rates among very young children, the researchers said. But the strong international focus on reducing infant and child mortality has not been matched by a similar efforts in older groups, they said, even though more than two-fifths of the world’s population is in the five to 24 years age group. “These trends are likely to continue because mortality in children younger than five years is expected to decline further, and injury-related

mortality is expected to increase in the next 25 years,” said Russell Viner from the University College London institute of child health, who led the study.

Commenting on the findings, Michael Resnick of the University of Minnesota in the United States, who was not involved in the study, said they showed how “the profound health and social changes that have accompanied economic development and urbanization are particularly toxic for young people in both high-income and lowincome settings”. A study in 2009 by World Health Organization (WHO)-supported researchers found that 40 percent of adolescent deaths were due to injuries and violence. Against this background, Resnick said breakthroughs in medical progress and service delivery were not enough to counter health threats faced by young people because of the major role played by factors such as socioeconomic conditions, opportunity and access to education.

Viner’s team used the WHO mortality database

to analyze data for 50 rich and poor nations between 1955 and 2004. They looked at patterns of mortality by age group, sex and cause of deathdivided into infectious diseases, chronic diseases and injury. To find changes in mortality, they calculated death rates averaged over three five-year periods - 1955 to 1959, 1978 to 1982, and 2000 to 2004. Findings showed that in the 1950s, mortality in the one to four age group far exceeded that of all other age groups in all regions studied. But in the 50 years up to 2004, death rates in children aged one to nine fell by 80 to 93 percent, mostly due to reductions in deaths from infectious disease. In contrast, declines in death rates in those aged 15 to 24 years were only about half that in children, largely because of increases in injuryrelated deaths, particularly in young men. The researchers found that by the start of the 21st century, injuries-such as in incidents like car crashes and street or gang violence-were responsible for 70 to 75 percent of all deaths in young men aged 10 to 24 in all the regions studied. — Reuters

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Measles out of control in DR Congo Disease spreading, rapid action needed LONDON: An epidemic of measles in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is “spiraling out of control”, the international medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) said yesterday. The doctors group said it had counted 21,000 measles cases since September 2010 in an epidemic sweeping through the central African country. It said urgent international action was needed to halt the spread of the highly contagious disease.

“Since September 2010 we have vaccinated more than 1.5 million children in response to the crisis. But the disease is spreading like wildfire. All parties involved in health in the DRC must now make this epidemic a national priority,” said Gael Hankenne, MSF’s head of mission in Congo.

Measles is a viral disease affecting mostly children and can cause complications such as pneumonia, malnutrition, severe dehydration, ear and eye infections that can lead to blindness. It is one of the leading causes of death among children even though a safe and cost-effective vaccine is available. Experts say it costs less than $1 to vaccinate a child against measles. MSF said in a statement that the treatment and vaccination

needs in the DRC were “huge”, and the requirements in terms of human resources, finances and logistical capacity meant it alone could not provide the necessary hands-on response throughout the country. “We are asking the ministry of health to launch a response immediately to outbreaks that occur,” said MSF’s Geza Harzi.

The charity also called on international donors and health organizations with activities in the DRC-particularly UN agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the children’s fund UNICEF-to act immediately. “If this international response is not rapid, it will be impossible to check the spread of measles,” Harzi said.

Death rates from measles vary considerably depending on the context. In 2008, there were 164,000 measles deaths globally. When a population has not been vaccinated, measles can kill between 1 and 15 percent of afflicted children, according to MSF. Among vulnerable groups, such as people who have been displaced or are malnourished, the mortality rate can rise to 25 percent if people have limited access to health care, as is the case in many parts of the DRC. — Reuters

Youth psychological problems persist WASHINGTON: Children who had psychological problems have a greater likelihood of becoming adults who suffer money and relationship woes, said a British study published in the United States on Monday.

The analysis in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences was based on information about a group of 17,634 children born in Britain in the first week of March 1958. The group that had psychological problems by age 16, determined by the family reporting that a psychiatrist or psychologist had evaluated the child and found a “moderate” or “severe problem,” earned between 19 and 28 percent less as adults than those who were not deemed to have had such issues.

For comparison’s sake, children who had major physical health problems grew into adults that earned a family income that was an average of nine

percent less than their healthy counterparts. “By age 50, people who had childhood psychological problems had a six percent lower probability of being married or cohabitating and an 11 percent lower chance of working,” said the study. Researchers also saw a negative impact by age 50 on the traits of agreeableness and conscientiousness among those who had childhood psychological problems.

“These findings demonstrate that childhood psychological problems can have significant negative impacts over the course of an individual’s life, much more so than childhood physical health problems,” said James Smith, one of the study authors and a senior economist at the RAND Corporation, a nonprofit research group. “The findings suggest that increasing efforts to address these problems early in children may have large economic payoffs later in life.” —AFP

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To advertise advertise on this this page l t t us: please contact

248 33 199 ads@kuwaittimes.net

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Fajr Al-Sabah School holds awarding ceremony

Weekly course for men on Islamic knowledge

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he TIES English Speakers Club welcomes warmly all men interested in Islamic information to join us for this course. This course will be conducted every Monday evening from 6 to 8:30 pm from April 4, 2011 Dr. Mohammad Abbas will discuss various topics such as: Living by the Quran, Raising your Position in this Life and the Hereafter, The Blessed Person, The Key to Paradise, Mistakes to Avoid in the Prayers, Islamic Manners, Following the Sunnah (way) of the Prophet, and many more.

Location: TIES Center (www.tiescenter.net), Shuhada area of South Surra, Block 4, Street 413, House 67.

For more information, call 25231015/6 or 97798222

Sara

Yara

(R-L) Haneen, Aya, Yara, Maya and Sara

Dr Nampoory releases Sam Pynummood’s book

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ajr Al Sabah School, Jabriya recently held an awarding ceremony at their school last week. Yara and Sara Al-Zayyat were awarded merit certificates for their outstanding performances throughout the year. Yara and Sara are the daughters of Kuwait Times staff photographer Yasser. Congratulations!

7- 28th April Moroccan cuisine TIES Ladies Club invites all of you to come and join in the preparation of Moroccan food. The Moroccan cuisine is a delicious fusion of Berber and Andalusian influence resulting in a world famous cuisine known for its subtle aromatic flavours and elegant presentation. Come and learn to cook this exotic food. From 7th April - 28April, 2011 between 5.30pm - 8pm (Ladies Only).

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Telugu Lalithakala Samithi website launch

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LKS (Telugu Lalithakala Samithi) launched its Website www.tlkskuwait.com on 25th March in Krishna Chaitayna Meditation hall at Thirupati Hotel, Farwaniya. TLKS is taking the lead even further to exchange electronic platform for Telugu Business People in Kuwait shortly (TBF).

TLKS would like to thank each and every one, those who have attended the function, despite unexpected sand storm. Our membership drive is going on, please enroll your contact details through our website and our executive committee will approach you.

The following dignitaries attended the function: Mahatma Gandhi Telugu Youth Association

President Sannapaneni Mani & Members, Gulf Wide Nandamuri fans, Rack Dance Academy, Fusion Dance Group members, Polavarapu Babu Naidu, Balaji, Srinadh and TLKS Executive Committee Honorary President K Koteswara Rao, Founder & President Madineni Yangaiah Chowdary, Vice Presidents Prabhakar Reddy, R Lakshmi pathi Naidu, General Secretary K Mohan Babu, Treasurer Bala Subramanyam Raju ( Bala), programme coordinators B Chandra Sekhar Raju, Venu Gopal, Social & welfare coordinator Giri Babu, Cultural Coordinator Eswar Babu, Akula Chalapathi, Web Master Ravi Kumar.

(R-L) Sara Al-Zayyat, Bebe Fayrouz and Sedrh Al-Kayed

National, Liberation Day and HH the Amir’s assumption of Power Events

Anniversary

r Narayanan Nampoory, President of IDF released an essay collection “Athijeevananthinte Kazchapaadukal” (Prospects of Survival) written by Sam Pynummoodu, President of Kerala Art Lovers Association (Kala-Kuwait) and a well known social activist in Kuwait, by handing over the first copy to E.M Ashraf, Kairali TV Associate Editor. Habeeb Rahman, activist and short story writer introduced the book to the audience. A range of communities participated the function. Prathibha Books undertaken the publication of the book.

Sam Pynummodu is in Kuwait since 1980 all the time performing as an activist, writer and orator over the issues relating humanity. Sam a native of Mavelikara Kerala was honored with the expatriate Malayalee award “Swaralaya-2006.”

9th April Trip to Scientific Centre TIES Ladies Club would like to invite you to an interesting educative trip to Scientific Centre on Saturday April 9th 2011 from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

This will be an eye opener to the scientific world of Kuwait and with lots of fun to be enjoyed. Hurry to register for the trip on or before March 30th 2011.

(Ladies and Kids Only) Transportation will be available from TIES Center at 9am.

30th April - 21st May Junior Baking Classes Dear Mothers, We invite your daughter to our new baking classes, so that they can give you a hand in preparing sweets for desert.

From 30th April - May 21st 2011 between 10am 12pm. Age 6years to 12years (Girls Only) Please apply now and reserve a seat. Certificates and presents will be distributed after completion of the course!!

For more information please contact us on 2523105/6 or 97228860 or visit our website www.tiescenter.net

Gopalswami

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t shines in every way.” May the good Allah see and bless you, On our anniversary day. May He always be your companion,And guide you on your way.

I’m blessed to have you as my wife as we celebrate our second wedding anniversary. May our love grow double fold with every passing day. Happy wedding anniversary. Your loving hubby Afroz.

Write to us Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

Frontliners’ new book on ‘Environmental issues’

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steemed dignitaries from India D R Karthekeyan IPS (former CBI Director who investigated Rajiv Ghandhi murder case) & Gopalswami (former Chief Election Commissioner) are visiting Kuwait to release Frontliners PART-15 special book on environment, at a MEGA event planned in May-2011.

Taking into consideration of the current disasters, happening globally, Frontliners the noted service organization registered with Indian Embassy of Kuwait, is preparing a book with the theme “Environmental issues and its solutions.”

Articles connected with Environment - on any topics which is dealt in our life, are welcome from associations, educational institutions, students, industries & individuals with relevant photos.

K’s Path to hold fundraiser Go-karting

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’S PATH (Kuwait Society for Protection of Animals and Their Habitat) - formerly known as Animal Friends Kuwait - is holding an exciting fundraiser GoKarting event sponsored by Porsche Approved Pre-Owned at Pro Kart Racing this Thursday, 31st March 2011 from 5 pm to 9 pm. Proceeds from the fundraiser will go towards the welfare of K’S PATH’s animals, upkeep of the shelter

and support K’S PATH’s many community initiatives.

DJ Omy will be in the house to root for racers with his music. While tickets to race stand at KD 15 per head, tickets for spectators stand at KD 5 per head. All tickets are inclusive of a buffet. To download the registration form, please visit www.kspath.org or email events@kspath.org for more details.

K’S PATH’s fundraisers centre on activities that the community loves and engage the entire family, such as outdoors and extreme sports. Past fundraisers along these lines include a Golf tournament held in late 2010 at the Sahara Golf Club.

D R Karthekeyan

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Embassy Information EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA The Embassy encourages all Australians to register their presence in Kuwait through Smartraveller Online (see link below). Australians who are registered are asked to update their details. The information provided will assist us in contacting you in an emergency. www.smartraveller.gov.au Kuwait citizens can apply for and receive visit visas to Australia online at www.immi.gov.au. This usually takes two working days. All others visa applications are handled by the Australian Visa Application Centre Tel. 22971110. Witnessing and certifying documents are by appointment only, please contact the Embassy on 2232 2422. The Australian Embassy is open from 8.00am to 4.00pm, Sunday to Thursday. nnnnnnn

Abdullah Boftain

Haya Al-Shatti

Abdulwahab Al-Essa

Meshari AlMutawa

Gust hosts Kuwait’s first social media forum

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he Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) hosted Kuwait’s 1st Social Networking Forum organized

by Al-Harir and sponsored by Zain, Kuwait InternationalBank and the Kuwait Small Projects Development Company. The main aim of the forum was to introduce people to the right ways to utilize social media networking to further develop their projects and themselves.

Omar Al-Othman, a presenter of the segment What’s On on Al-Watan TV’s show “Taw El-Lail” was the host of the seminar where he introduced all the speakers and what the forum will be about. Al-Othman introduced Meshari Al-Mutawa, the General Manager of Harir, who thanked all the sponsors and began to explain the importance behind the technological revolution of social networking “communication has changed, it will never be as it was before,” which is why this forum is so important.

Waleed Al-Khashti, Director of Public Relations and Communications at Zain, spoke to the audience, explaining Zain’s proactive role in tapping into what’s important in today’s market - and social networking is it, which is why they decided to

become a strategic partner in this forum to support the youth in all their endeavors.

Lamia Al-Tabtabie, IT Manager at Kuwait International Bank shared the same testament. She stressed on the large role that social networks such as Twitter and Facebook in our daily lives and the vital information that travels through these networks. “At KIB we strive to use these technologies to encourage transparency and communication with our customers.”

Personalities such as Dr. Sajed Al-Abdelli, specialist in occupational health and professional trainer in human development, Dr. Abdullah Al-Mutawa, Dietician, Politician Mohammad Al-Dallal, Engineer and internet marketing guru Khaled Al-Zanki, author Haya Al-Shatti, Hind Al-Nahedh, Head of the PR Department at VIVA, Abdullah Boftain, presenter of “Liqa’a Al-Rai” on Al-Rai TV and Abdulwahab Al-Essa, presenter of “Taw ElLail” on Al-Watan TV. All these Kuwaiti personalities are active on Twitter and Facebook to promote not only their services, but themselves - who they are and what they do and what they stand for. And all have become very successful.

The seminar took place over a period of 3

days where the lecturers discussed the present burst of social networking and what its future looks like, their personal experiences with the successes of social networking for companies and individuals, the legal controls over social networking, product marketing and launching via social networks, how to increase your viewers on Youtube, personal marketing and the secrets and tricks to exceptional Twitter activity. The consumers who joined the forum, which was compted of its oringialfees learned a lot.

March 28th is the last day of the forum, which takes place at the Gulf University for Science and Technology at 5pm.

Dr Sajed

EMBASSY OF INDIA 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 India would like to inform that application forms for passport/visa services and labor contracts that are on its website, www.indembkwt.org, have been upgraded to include the facility for online data entry. Affidavit forms on the embassy website have had this facility since May 6, 2009.

The Chief Electoral Officers of the states of Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and the Union Territory of Puducherry, where elections have been declared, have issued notification under Rule 8A of Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, allowing overseas electors to submit registration forms to exercise their franchise in their respective constituencies. Relevant application forms, guidelines for filling them, as well as postal addresses of the Electoral Registration Officers of all constituencies in India are on the website of the Election Commission of India (http://eci.nic.in) and Indian nationals in Kuwait desirous of exercising their franchise are advised to access the website. It is clarified that the attestation of Form 6-A and other documents relating to the election process are to be done by the applicant himself/herself (i.e., self attestation) and not by the Embassy of India, Kuwait. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF FRANCE In order to prepare for your summer vacation in France, a period which is considered to be “high season”, particularly in terms of visa requests, the French Embassy kindly asks you to submit your application form along with all requested documents to Al Qabas Assurex Company, allowing enough time for your visa to be processed and delivered before your travelling date. We would like to remind you that for housemaids and other domestic staff a temporary work permit is requested and needs to be processed at least 3 weeks before it is delivered. Please note that only one person is allowed per request, 2 exceptionally, as derogation to the rule.

Visa Requests have to be submitted at least 2 weeks (3 weeks for domestic staff) before travelling date and 3 months maximum below travelling date.

The French Embassy in Kuwait thanks you in advance for respecting these above-mentioned deadlines. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF BRITAIN Should you come into contact with British nationals in or transiting Kuwait requiring consular assistance please have them contact us at the following new consular inquiry numbers: 972 71877 or 972 71922.

Our new temporary switchboard number is 999693651 For the latest FCO travel advice please visit: www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-livingabroad/travel-advice-by-country/middle-east-north-africa/kuwait The Embassy is open Sunday to Thursday 7:30am to 14:3Opm.

Indian ambassador welcomes good response to amnesty

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ince March 1, 2011, the Indian Embassy in Kuwait, has extended amnesty related services to 7,900 Indians, received 6,200 applications for Emergency Certificates (ECs), prepared 5,000 ECs and already delivered 3,000 ECs. While persons visiting the Embassy for amnesty related services peaked at 1,200 per day during the first week of March, their number has now dipped to 100 per day.

The Ambassador of India, Ajai Malhotra, welcomed the good response to the amnesty. He recalled that guidelines for Indian nationals to avail of the amnesty were widely circulated by the Indian Embassy on March 1, 2011, and were available on its web-site in Hindi, English, Kannada, Malayalam, Tamil and Telugu. He reminded that the form for an Emergency Certificate to travel to India could be completed online, printed from the Embassy website (www.indembkwt.org) and

brought to the Embassy. It was available for free at the Embassy, which was also providing a free service to fill it up. In the vast majority of cases, the Embassy was now issuing the EC within 3 to 4 days of application.

Ambassador Malhotra reaffirmed that the Indian Embassy would be very happy to bear the air ticket cost for travel to India in the case of any destitute Indian who was unable to find the means to do so. He also noted that special air fares were available for those who would like to travel to India while availing of the amnesty. Reminding that the amnesty would end on June 30, 2011, the Ambassador urged any remaining Indian nationals who still needed to regularize their residency status in Kuwait to do so at the earliest or to avail of the amnesty to return to India.

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EMBASSY OF NIGERIA The Nigerian embassy has moved its office to Mishref. Block 3, Street 7, House 4. For enquires please call 25379541. Fax- 25387719. Emailnigeriakuwait@yahoo.com or nigeriakuwait@yahoo.co.uk nnnnnnn

Arpan to present ‘Kathakali 2011’

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rpan Kuwait, an Indian socio-cultural organization, will present ‘Kathakali 2011’ on Saturday, April 30 at 6.30 pm at the Indian Community School (Senior Girls), Salmiya as part of its initiative to promote Indian classical art and culture in Kuwait.

The show ‘Kalyanasougandhikam’, a very popular exotic dance drama, will be presented by renowned Kathakali performers from India Kalamandalam Vasudevan, Sasikala S Vellodi, Kalamandalam Sreekantan and Kalamandalam Sreekumar. A 30minute demo will also be held by the performers prior to the show for the guests who are not familiar with Kathakali.

Kathakali, Kerala’s classical theatre, will be presented as a cross-cultural program before an august gathering comprising diplomats, Kuwaiti guests, dancers and theatre lovers.

It was Arpan that brought Kathakali for the first time to Kuwait way back in 2005. Now, Arpan is presenting the unique classical dance drama once again before the Kuwait’s elite audience on popular demand. For details, contact: 99716105, 97277151, 66872372 or 94063428.

EMBASSY OF KENYA The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya wishes to request all Kenyans resident in or training through Kuwait to register with the Embassy. We are updating our database. This information is necessary in order to facilitate quick assistance and advise in times of emergency. Kindly visit in person or register through our website www.kenyaembkuwait.com. The Embassy is located in: Surra Area - Block 6 - Street 9 - Villa 3 Tel: 25353362 25353314; Fax: 25353316. nnnnnnn

EMBASSY OF CANADA The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakel St., Block 4 in Da’aiyah. Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca.

Canada offers a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that Consular Officials can contact and assist Canadians in an emergency in a foreign country, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform Canadians of a family emergency at home.

The Embassy of Canada encourages all Canadian Citizens to register online through the Government of Canada Travel Website at www.voyage.gc.ca.

The Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi provides visa and immigration services to residents of Kuwait. Individuals who are interested in visiting, working or immigrating to Canada are invited to visit the website of the Canadian Embassy to the UAE at www.UAE.gc.ca.

Effective January 15, 2011, the only Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) application form that will be accepted by CIC is the Application for Temporary Resident Visa Made Outside of Canada [IMM 5257] form. All previous Temporary Resident Visa application forms will no longer be accepted by CIC and instead will be returned to applicants. Should old applications be submitted prior to January 15, 2011 they will continue to be processed. To ensure that the most recent version of the Temporary Resident Visa application form is being utilized, applicants should refer to the CIC website.

As of January 15, 2011, forms are to be filled in electronically.

The Embassy of Canada is open from 07:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday. Consular Services for Canadian Citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00 on Sunday through Wednesday.

The forms are available on the internet at: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/IMM5257E.PDF. A guide explaining the process can be found here: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/guides/5256E.PDF.

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

Years

TV PROGRAMS

00:45 Almost Human With Jane Goodall 02:35 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 03:30 K9 Cops 04:25 Sharkbite Summer 05:20 Untamed And Uncut 06:10 Project Puppy 06:35 Project Puppy 07:00 Lemur Street 07:25 Monkey Life 07:50 Baby Planet 08:40 Breed All About It 09:10 Must Love Cats 10:05 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip 11:00 Animal Precinct 11:55 Wildlife SOS International 12:20 Wildlife SOS 12:50 Last Chance Highway 13:45 Sspca: On The Wildside 14:10 Vet On The Loose 14:40 There’s A Rhino In My House!

16:30 Monkey Life 17:00 Breed All About It 17:25 Extraordinary Dogs 17:50 Cats Of Claw Hill 18:20 Weird Creatures With Nick Baker 19:15 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip 20:10 Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 21:05 Life In The Undergrowth 22:00 Killer Whales 22:55 In Search Of The King Cobra 23:50 Untamed And Uncut

00:05 00:35 01:20 02:10 02:40 03:10 04:00 04:30 04:50 05:10 05:25 05:30 05:40 05:45 06:05 06:25 06:40 06:50 07:00 07:05 07:25 07:45 08:00 08:05 08:15 08:20 08:40 09:00 09:15 09:20 09:35 09:40 10:40 11:25 12:30 13:00 13:30 14:20 15:20 16:25 17:10 17:40 18:10 19:00 20:00 20:45 21:15 21:45 22:40 23:30

Keeping Up Appearances The Weakest Link Holby City Eastenders Doctors Heart And Soul Keeping Up Appearances Me Too Tweenies The Roly Mo Show The Adventures Of Spot The Large Family Buzz And Tell Me Too Tweenies The Roly Mo Show The Adventures Of Spot The Large Family Buzz And Tell Me Too Tweenies The Roly Mo Show The Adventures Of Spot The Large Family Buzz And Tell Me Too Tweenies The Roly Mo Show The Adventures Of Spot The Large Family Buzz And Tell Keeping Up Appearances The Weakest Link Coast Doctors Eastenders Holby City Keeping Up Appearances Coast The Weakest Link Doctors Eastenders Holby City Coast The Weakest Link Doctors Eastenders Casualty Survivors My Family

00:15 01:05 01:55 02:45

Come Dine With Me Home For Life Superhomes Come Dine With Me

04:50 Home For Life 05:40 Fantasy Homes In The City 06:30 Daily Cooks Challenge 07:10 Glamour Puds 07:35 10 Years Younger 08:25 Antiques Roadshow 09:15 Fantasy Homes In The City 10:00 Cash In The Attic USA 10:20 What Not To Wear 11:10 Antiques Roadshow 12:00 Fantasy Homes By The Sea 12:45 Glamour Puds 13:10 Glamour Puds 13:30 Daily Cooks Challenge 15:00 Antiques Roadshow 15:50 Home For Life 16:45 Come Dine With Me 18:50 Home For Life 19:40 What Not To Wear 20:30 Antiques Roadshow 21:20 Rick Stein’s Far Eastern Odyssey 22:10 Rhodes Across China 22:55 Cash In The Attic

00:00 Business Edition With Tanya Beckett 00:30 Business Edition With Tanya Beckett 00:45 Sport Today 01:00 BBC World News 01:30 Asia Business Report 01:45 Asia Today 02:00 BBC World News America 03:00 BBC World News 03:30 Asia Business Report 03:45 Asia Today 04:00 BBC World News 04:30 Asia Business Report 04:45 Asia Today 05:00 BBC World News 05:30 Asia Business Report 05:45 Asia Today 06:00 BBC World News 06:30 Hardtalk 07:00 BBC World News 07:30 World Business Report 07:45 BBC World News 08:30 World Business Report 08:45 BBC World News 09:30 World Business Report 09:45 Sport Today 10:00 BBC World News 10:30 World Business Report 10:45 Sport Today 11:00 BBC World News 11:30 Hardtalk 12:00 BBC World News 12:30 World Business Report 12:45 Sport Today 13:00 BBC World News 13:30 World Business Report 13:45 Sport Today 14:00 GMT With George Alagiah 14:30 GMT With George Alagiah 15:00 BBC World News 15:30 World Business Report 15:45 Sport Today 16:00 Impact With Mishal Husain 17:30 World Business Report 17:45 Sport Today 18:00 BBC World News 18:30 Hardtalk 19:00 The Hub With Nik Gowing 20:30 World Business Report 20:45 Sport Today 21:00 World News Today With Zeinab Badawi 22:30 World Business Report 22:45 Sport Today 23:00 BBC World News 23:30 Hardtalk

00:15 00:35 01:00 01:25 01:50 02:15 02:40 03:05 03:35 04:00 04:25

Popeye Tom And Jerry Top Cat Yogi’s Treasure Hunt Droopy: Master Detective King Arthur’s Disasters Scooby Doo Where Are You! The Flintstones Hong Kong Phooey A Pup Named Scooby-Doo The Perils Of Penelope Pitstop

04:50 05:15 05:45 06:10 Doo 06:35 07:00 07:20 07:45 08:10 08:35 09:00 09:20 09:45 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:20 Doo 11:45 12:10 12:40 13:05 13:30 13:55 14:20 14:45 15:10 15:35 16:00 16:30 16:55 17:20 17:45 18:10 18:35 19:00 19:25 19:50 20:15 20:40 21:00 21:25 Doo 21:50 22:15 22:40 23:00 23:25 23:50

Looney Tunes Popeye Classics Help! It’s The Hair Bear Bunch Scooby-Doo And ScrappyDastardly And Muttley Tom And Jerry Kids Top Cat Pink Panther And Pals The Scooby Doo Show The Addams Family Tom And Jerry The Garfield Show Looney Tunes The Jetsons King Arthur’s Disasters The Flintstones Scooby-Doo And ScrappyPopeye Wacky Races Yogi’s Treasure Hunt The Scooby Doo Show Tom And Jerry Looney Tunes Duck Dodgers Top Cat Scooby Doo Where Are You! Dexter’s Laboratory Johnny Bravo The Scooby Doo Show Tom And Jerry Top Cat Dastardly And Muttley Wacky Races The Scooby Doo Show The Garfield Show The Addams Family Duck Dodgers Pink Panther And Pals Tom And Jerry The Jetsons Scooby-Doo And ScrappyThe Flintstones Looney Tunes Tom And Jerry Kids The Perils Of Penelope Pitstop A Pup Named Scooby-Doo Help! It’s The Hair Bear Bunch

00:05 Cow And Chicken 00:30 Cramp Twins 00:55 George Of The Jungle 01:20 Adrenalini Brothers 01:45 Eliot Kid 02:10 Ed, Edd N Eddy 02:35 Ben 10: Alien Force 03:00 The Powerpuff Girls 03:15 Chowder 03:40 The Secret Saturdays 04:05 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 04:30 Ben 10: Alien Force 04:55 Best Ed 05:20 Skunk Fu! 05:45 Cramp Twins 06:10 Eliot Kid 06:35 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 07:00 Codename: Kids Next Door 07:25 Cow And Chicken 07:50 Best Ed 08:15 Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends 08:40 Ben 10: Alien Force 09:05 The Secret Saturdays 09:30 Batman: The Brave And The Bold 09:55 The Powerpuff Girls 10:20 Robotboy 10:30 The Life And Times Of Juniper Lee 10:55 Ben 10 11:20 Chowder 11:45 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 12:10 Camp Lazlo 12:35 George Of The Jungle 13:00 Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends 13:25 Codename: Kids Next Door 13:50 Ben 10 14:15 My Gym Partner’s A Monkey 14:40 Squirrel Boy 15:05 Eliot Kid 15:30 Ed, Edd N Eddy 16:00 Cow And Chicken 16:25 Chop Socky Chooks

SCREAM 3 ON OSN ACTION HD

16:50 Skunk Fu! 17:15 Chowder 17:40 Best Ed 18:05 Hero 108 18:30 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 18:55 Batman: The Brave And The Bold 19:20 Ben 10: Alien Force 19:45 The Secret Saturdays 20:10 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 20:35 Fantastic Four: World’s Greatest Heroes 21:00 The Powerpuff Girls 21:25 Ed, Edd N Eddy 21:50 Robotboy 22:00 Camp Lazlo 22:25 Hero 108 22:50 Ben 10 23:15 Bakugan Battle Brawlers 23:40 Chowder

00:40 01:35 02:30 03:25 04:20 05:15 05:40 06:05 07:00 07:50 08:45 09:10 09:40 10:30 10:55 11:25 12:20 13:15 14:10 15:05 16:00 16:55 17:50 18:45 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:35 21:00 21:30 21:55 22:25 22:50 23:45

Chop Shop Dirty Jobs Stan Lee’s Superhumans Really Big Things Mythbusters How Does It Work How It’s Made Dirty Jobs Really Big Things American Chopper How Does It Work How It’s Made Mythbusters Cake Boss Border Security Chop Shop Ultimate Survival Mythbusters La Ink Dirty Jobs Chop Shop Mythbusters Deadliest Catch Cake Boss Border Security Deconstruction How Does It Work How It’s Made I Could Do That I Could Do That One Way Out One Way Out Mythbusters I Was Bitten

00:30 00:55 01:45 03:25 03:50 04:45 05:40 06:10 07:00 07:55 07:58 08:25 08:55 09:45 10:10 10:35 11:25 11:50 12:40 13:05 13:30 13:55 14:45 15:10 16:00 16:03 16:30 17:00 17:50 18:40 19:30 20:20 20:45 21:10 22:00 22:50 23:40

The Gadget Show Alien Storms Are We Alone?

How Does That Work?

Junkyard Mega-Wars Robocar Patent Bending Superships Scrapheap Challenge Head Rush Sci-Fi Science Weird Connections Race To Mars How Stuff’s Made The Gadget Show Engineered Mean Green Machines Scrapheap Challenge Patent Bending Sci-Fi Science Sci-Fi Science Space Pioneer The Gadget Show Alien Storms Head Rush Sci-Fi Science Weird Connections Brainiac Mega World How Stuff Works What’s That About?

How It’s Made The Gadget Show Nextworld How Stuff Works What’s That About?

Kings Of Construction

00:00 00:25 01:15 02:00 02:50 03:15 03:35 04:00 04:25 04:50 05:15 05:35 06:00 06:20 06:45 07:05 07:30 07:55 08:20 08:35 09:00 09:25 09:50 10:10 10:35 10:50 11:15 11:35 12:00 12:25 12:42 12:45 13:10 13:30 13:55 14:20 14:40 14:48 14:55 15:20 15:40 16:00 16:25 16:45 17:08 17:10 17:35 18:00 18:22 18:25 18:45 19:08 19:10 19:35 20:00 20:25 20:50

KIM POSSIBLE FAIRLY ODD PARENTS STITCH Replacements FAIRLY ODD PARENTS FAIRLY ODD PARENTS STITCH STITCH Replacements Replacements Emperors New School Emperors New School Phineas & Ferb Phineas & Ferb KIM POSSIBLE SONNY WITH A CHANCE YR 2 JONAS LA WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE FAIRLY ODD PARENTS Mickey Mouse Clubhouse HANDY MANNY SPECIAL AGENT OSO JUNGLE JUNCTION IMAGINATION MOVERS SPECIAL AGENT OSO HANDY MANNY Mickey Mouse Clubhouse GOOD LUCK CHARLIE SHAKE IT UP FAIRLY ODD PARENTS HAVE A LAUGH Phineas & Ferb Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE JAKE & BLAKE HAVE A LAUGH HAVE A LAUGH A KIND OF MAGIC SHAKE IT UP Kim Possible HANNAH MONTANA FOREVER SONNY WITH A CHANCE YR 2 JONAS LA HAVE A LAUGH JAKE & BLAKE WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE HAVE A LAUGH HANNAH MONTANA FOREVER Phineas & Ferb HAVE A LAUGH SHAKE IT UP WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE SONNY WITH A CHANCE YR 2 JAKE & BLAKE HANNAH MONTANA FOREVER

21:12 21:15 21:35 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15 23:35

HAVE A LAUGH Phineas & Ferb FAIRLY ODD PARENTS Replacements Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE Jonas

00:00 Programmes Start At 7:00am KSA 06:00 Kid vs Kat 07:15 Phineas And Ferb 07:40 Suite Life On Deck S3 08:55 Have A Laugh 09:00 Zeke And Luther 09:50 I’m In The Band 10:15 The Super Hero Squad Show 10:40 Suite Life On Deck 11:30 Escape From Scorpion Island 12:00 Phineas And Ferb 13:00 Kid vs Kat 13:55 Have A Laugh 14:00 The Suite Life Of Zack And Cody 14:25 The Suite Life Of Zack And Cody 14:50 Kid vs Kat 16:10 Have A Laugh 16:15 Pair Of Kings 17:55 The Avengers: Earths Mightiest Heroes 19:35 Den Brother 21:00 Phineas And Ferb 21:25 I’m In The Band 21:55 The Suite Life Of Zack And Cody 22:20 The Super Hero Squad Show

00:15 Kendra 00:40 Style Star 01:05 Style Star 01:30 E!es 02:20 E!es 03:15 25 Most Stylish 04:10 Sexiest 05:05 Battle Of The Hollywood Hotties 05:30 Streets Of Hollywood 06:00 THS 07:45 Behind The Scenes 08:10 Behind The Scenes 08:35 E! News 09:25 Kimora: Life In The Fab Lane 10:15 E!es 11:05 E!es 12:00 E! News 12:50 Style Star 13:15 Style Star 13:40 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 14:05 Kendra 14:30 THS 16:15 Behind The Scenes 16:40 Behind The Scenes 17:10 THS 18:00 E! News 18:50 Fashion Police 19:15 Style Star 19:40 E!es 20:05 E!es 20:30 Extreme Close-Up 20:55 Chelsea Lately 21:20 Kimora: Life In The Fab Lane 21:45 Kimora: Life In The Fab Lane 22:10 E! News 23:00 Fashion Police 23:25 Kendra 23:50 Kourtney And Khloe Take Miami

00:15 Fantasy Factory 00:40 Carpocalypse 01:30 World Combat League 02:20 Fantasy Factory 02:45 Fantasy Factory 03:10 Aiya TV 03:35 Aiya TV 04:00 Motorbike Diaries - Mad In The Med 04:25 Motorbike Diaries - Mad In The Med 04:50 Carpocalypse 05:40 World Combat League 06:30 iEX 2009 08:00 Quattro Events 2009 08:25 Very Best Of Maverick’s Best Surf 09:15 Lucas Oil Ama Motocross Championships...

10:05 Lucas Oil Ama Motocross Championships...

10:55 Ride Guide Mountainbike 2009 11:20 Ride Guide Mountainbike 2009 11:45 Untracked 12:35 Fantasy Factory 13:25 Carpocalypse 14:15 World Combat League 15:05 Ride Guide Mountainbike 2009 15:30 Ride Guide Mountainbike 2009 15:55 Untracked 16:45 Quattro Events 2009 17:10 Very Best Of Maverick’s Best Surf 18:00 Lucas Oil Ama Motocross Championships...

18:50 Lucas Oil Ama Motocross Championships...

19:40 Untracked 20:30 Fantasy Factory 21:20 I’ll Do Anything 22:10 World Combat League 23:00 Aiya TV 23:50 Fantasy Factory

00:30 01:20 02:10 03:00 03:50 04:45 05:15 06:10 07:00 07:50 08:40 09:30 10:20 11:10 12:00 Jones 12:50 13:40 14:30 15:20

Ghost Lab A Haunting Deadly Women Deadly Women: Face To Face Dr G: Medical Examiner Black Museum Ghost Lab Diagnosis: Unknown Forensic Detectives On The Run Diagnosis: Unknown Real Emergency Calls Undercover FBI Files True Crime With Aphrodite Extreme Forensics Diagnosis: Unknown Real Emergency Calls Undercover

THE LOVELY BONES ON OSN CINEMA 16:10 17:00 17:50 18:40 19:30 20:20 Jones 21:10 22:00 22:50 23:40

Forensic Detectives On The Run FBI Files Diagnosis: Unknown Real Emergency Calls True Crime With Aphrodite Extreme Forensics I Almost Got Away With It Forensic Justice Dr G: Medical Examiner

00:00 Departures 01:00 Banged Up Abroad 02:00 Pressure Cook 02:30 Madventures 03:00 Lonely Planet- Roads Less Travelled 04:00 Banged Up Abroad 05:00 Pressure Cook 05:30 Madventures 06:00 Departures 07:00 Banged Up Abroad 08:00 Pressure Cook 08:30 Madventures 09:00 Lonely Planet- Roads Less Travelled 10:00 Banged Up Abroad 11:00 Cruise Ship Diaries 12:00 Earth Tripping 13:00 Banged Up Abroad 14:00 Cruise Ship Diaries 15:00 Earth Tripping 16:00 Banged Up Abroad 17:00 Cruise Ship Diaries 18:00 Earth Tripping 18:30 Earth Tripping 19:00 Banged Up Abroad 20:00 Cruise Ship Diaries 21:00 Earth Tripping 22:00 Banged Up Abroad 23:00 Cruise Ship Diaries

00:30 Deceit-PG15 02:00 Ninja Assassin-18 04:00 Scream 3-18 06:00 Dragonball: Evolution-PG 08:00 Gone In Sixty Seconds-PG15 10:00 Scream 3-18 12:00 The Betrayed-PG15 13:45 Gone In Sixty Seconds-PG15 15:45 Independence Day-PG15 18:15 The Betrayed-PG15 20:00 Green Street 2: Stand Your Ground-18 22:00 Pride And Glory-18

01:00 Roman Polanski: Wanted And Desired-PG15 03:00 Old Dogs-PG 05:00 Jump Tomorrow-PG15 07:00 2012: Startling New Secret-PG 09:00 Surrogates-PG15 11:00 The Dust Factory-PG15 13:00 When In Rome-PG15 14:45 Bandslam-PG15 16:45 Whip It-PG15 18:45 The Lovely Bones-PG15 21:00 The Wronged Man-PG15 23:00 Franklyn-PG15

00:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 01:00 The Colbert Report 01:30 American Dad 02:00 Rita Rocks 02:30 Kath And Kim 03:00 The Cleveland Show 03:30 Curb Your Enthusiasm 04:00 American Dad 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 05:30 Coach 06:00 Yes Dear 06:30 The Drew Carey Show 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 08:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 08:30 Coach 09:00 Just Shoot Me 09:30 The Drew Carey Show 10:00 Yes Dear 10:30 Rita Rocks 11:00 Coach 11:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 12:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 13:00 Just Shoot Me 13:30 Coach

14:00 Yes Dear 14:30 Kath And Kim 15:00 Rita Rocks 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 The Drew Carey Show 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 18:00 Just Shoot Me 18:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 19:00 Rita Rocks 19:30 Community 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 21:30 The Colbert Report 22:00 The Big C 22:30 Entourage 23:00 American Dad 23:30 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

00:00 Into The Blue 2: The Reef-18 01:30 Signs-PG15 03:15 Enemy Of The State-PG15 05:30 Into The Blue 2: The Reef-18 07:15 Captain Drake-PG 09:00 X-Men Origins: WolverinePG15 11:00 Gran Torino-PG15 13:00 The Yards-PG15 15:00 X-Men Origins: WolverinePG15 17:00 Con Air-PG15 19:00 Underworld: Rise Of The Lycans-18 21:00 Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen-PG15 23:30 Blindness-18

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

Jack-PG15 The Ugly Truth-PG15 Man Of The House-PG15 From Justin To Kelly-PG Legally Blondes-PG The Match-PG15 Chatterbox-PG Management-PG15 Jack-PG15 Blank Check-FAM That Thing You Do!-PG Mumford-18

01:20 03:10 05:20 07:30 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 21:00 23:30

Mesrine: Killer Instinct-18 Ghost-PG15 Defiance-PG15 Beneath The Blue-PG15 Sticks And Stones-PG Bottle Shock-PG15 Crimes Of The Past-PG15 Keith-PG15 Far North-PG15 Alice In Wonderland-PG Public Enemies-18 Genova-PG15

00:30 03:00 04:30 PG 06:30 PG15 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 PG15 17:00 18:30 21:00 23:00

Finding Forrester-PG Jonas Brothers Concert-PG The Wild Thornberrys Movie-

16:00 Franklin And The Green Knight-FAM 18:00 Up-FAM 20:00 Blank Check-FAM 22:00 Ice Age 3: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs-FAM

00:00 Man On Wire-PG15 02:00 End Of The Spear-PG15 04:00 Ambrose Bierce: Civil War Stories-PG15 06:00 L’affaire Farewell-PG15 08:00 Hey Hey Its Esther Blueburger-PG15 10:00 Hachiko : A Dog’s Story-PG15 12:00 Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time-PG15 14:00 Max And Co.-PG 16:00 Hey Hey Its Esther Blueburger-PG15 18:00 Ghosts Of Girlfriends PastPG15 20:00 The Blind Side-PG15 22:15 The Hit-PG15

00:00 Super League 02:00 Futbol Mundial 02:30 World Hockey 03:00 Super 15 05:00 PGA European Highlights 06:00 Trans World Sport 07:00 NRL Premiership 09:00 PGA European Highlights 10:00 Futbol Mundial 10:30 ICC Cricket World 11:00 NRL Premiership 13:00 AFL Premiership 15:30 Super 15 17:30 PGA European Highlights 18:30 Trans World Sport 19:30 European Tour Weekly 20:00 AFL Highlights 21:00 Super 15 23:00 Super 15

00:00 Futbol Mundial 00:30 Super 15 02:30 NRL Premiership 04:30 NRL Full Time 05:00 NRL Premiership 07:00 Golfing World 08:00 AFL Premiership 10:30 World Hockey 11:00 PGA European Highlights 12:00 Golfing World 13:00 NRL Full Time 13:30 Futbol Mundial 14:00 Aviva Premiership 16:00 World Hockey 16:30 Super League 18:30 NRL Full Time 19:00 Golfing World 20:00 Futbol Mundial 20:30 European Tour Weekly 21:00 Trans World Sport 22:00 AFL Highlights 23:00 Golfing World

Tour

Tour

Tour

Tour

He’s Just Not That Into YouAliens In The Attic-FAM Swing Vote-PG15 Up-FAM G.I. Joe: The Rise Of CobraAliens In The Attic-FAM You Don’t Know Jack-PG15 One Fine Day-PG15 The Reader-18

00:00 Sing To The Dawn-FAM 02:00 The Princess And The FrogFAM 04:15 Pollyworld-FAM 06:00 Treasure Island-PG 08:00 The Jungle Book IV: Hate And Love-FAM 10:00 The Princess And The FrogFAM 12:00 Ice Age 3: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs-FAM 14:00 Pollyworld-FAM

00:00 Iron Man 2010 01:00 V8 Supercars Championship 02:00 V8 Supercars Championship 03:00 Red Bull X-Fighters 04:00 UAE National Race Day Series 05:00 UFC Unleashed 06:00 UFC Unleashed 07:00 WWE Vintage Collection 08:00 Superstock Powerboat Series 08:30 Iron Man 2010 09:30 UAE National Race Day Series 10:30 Red Bull X-Fighters 11:30 Sports Adventure 12:00 WWE NXT 13:00 UAE National Race Day Series 14:00 Abu Dhabi Adventure Challenge 15:00 Red Bull X-Fighters 16:00 V8 Supercars Championship 17:00 V8 Supercars Championship 18:00 WWE NXT 19:00 WWE Bottom Line 20:00 WWE Vintage Collection 21:00 UFC The Ultimate Fighter

Classifieds WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

1 Week ending March 29, 2011

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(C 3232)

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Room available for Goan family in 2 bedroom flat near Khaitan Co-operative / Cinema. Contact: 99453500.

(C 3226) Sharing accommodation available for non-smoking executive Indian bachelors in C-A/C flat, Kuwait City. Contact: 99119755.

(C 3227) 28-3-2011 Sharing accommodation available effective today for a non-smoking bachelor in a double bedroom flat in Amman street, Salmiya. Call 97199146.

FOR SALE

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Sokkia 510 digital survey unit complete with stand, wireless keyboard, cheaper - brand new condition.

Contact: 66218024.

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negotiable.

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SITUATION WANTED M.Com qualified senior accountant with 15 years experience in Travels, Freight & Customs (Cargo), capable of independently finalizing accounts, seeks suitable position. Mobile: 66019422. Email: alamuriravikanth@yahoo.com (C 3229)

29-3-2011

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Brand new Chevrolet Cruze 2011 model, KD 3800. Mitsubishi Galant 2004 model 58000 km, Al Mulla serviced, KD 1650,

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Seeking challenging assignment in Kuwait / Middle East for an Indian, aged 51, Licentiate in Mechanical Engineering having more than 30 years

of experience and good knowledge in System Design, building, commissioning and operating large process industries like Cement, lime, Petroleum Coke, Ceramic tiles.

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MATRIMONIAL Pentecostal parents invite proposal for their daughter 26 years, RN working in govt. hospital Australia, from parents of Pentecostal, spiritual and professionally qualified boys. Contact: mercydrops2010@yahoo.com 28-3-2011

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION In case you are not travelling, your proper cancellation of bookings will help other passengers to use seats Arrival Flights on Wednesday 30/3/2011 Airlines JZR THY UAE DHX FDB GFA QTR JZR JZR JZR FCX KAC BAW IRC KAC KAC KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC KAC UAE QTR ABY IRA ETD GFA FCX MEA JZR JZR JZR RBG KAC MSR IRC UAL RJA FDB KAC SVA KAC KNE

Flt 267 772 853 370 67 211 138 529 207 503 201 412 157 6964 206 382 302 53 352 284 362 344 855 132 125 603 301 213 203 404 555 165 561 3557 672 610 6791 982 640 57 802 500 552 745

Route BEIRUT ISTANBUL DUBAI BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN DOHA ASSIUT DAMASCUS LUXOR DUBAI MANILA / BANGKOK LONDON TEHRAN ISLAMABAD DELHI MUMBAI DUBAI COCHIN DHAKA COLOMBO CHENNAI DUBAI DOHA SHARJAH SHIRAZ ABU DHABI BAHRAIN DUBAI BEIRUT ALEXANDRIA DUBAI SOHAG ALEXANDRIA DUBAI CAIRO MASHAD WASHINGTON DC DULLES AMMAN DUBAI CAIRO JEDDAH DAMASCUS JEDDAH

Time 0:35 1:15 2:25 2:55 3:10 3:15 3:20 3:35 3:55 5:15 5:25 6:15 6:30 7:10 7:15 7:20 7:50 7:55 8:05 8:10 8:20 8:20 8:25 9:00 9:10 9:25 9:30 9:35 10:30 10:55 11:00 11:10 12:30 12:55 13:15 13:20 13:25 13:30 13:35 13:50 14:00 14:30 14:35 14:45

CLX SYR QTR KAC JZR ETD UAE GFA SVA JZR SVA JZR ABY KAC JZR JZR ALK IYE KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC AIC FDB JZR OMA VOS MEA JAI MSR DHX UAE GFA QTR UAL JZR JZR DLH SAI AXB KLM PIA

792 341 134 546 201 303 857 215 510 777 9370 239 127 550 257 177 227 824 166 502 542 618 786 614 774 674 102 975 61 787 647 81 402 572 618 372 859 217 136 981 135 185 636 441 393 447 215

LUXEMBOURG DAMASCUS DOHA ALEXANDRIA DAMASCUS ABU DHABI DUBAI BAHRAIN RIYADH JEDDAH JEDDAH AMMAN SHARJAH SHARM EL SHEIKH / SOHAG BEIRUT DUBAI COLOMBO / DUBAI SANAA / DOHA PARIS / ROME BEIRUT CAIRO DOHA JEDDAH BAHRAIN RIYADH DUBAI NEW YORK / LONDON CHENNAI / GOA DUBAI RIYADH MUSCAT BAGHDAD BEIRUT MUMBAI ALEXANDRIA BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN DOHA BAHRAIN BAHRAIN DUBAI FRANKFURT LAHORE / KARACHI KOZHIKODE / COCHIN AMSTERDAM / BAHRAIN KARACHI

14:50 15:00 15:15 15:30 15:45 16:50 16:55 17:15 17:20 17:25 17:30 17:35 17:40 17:45 17:50 18:00 18:00 18:40 18:40 18:45 18:50 18:55 19:00 19:20 19:25 19:25 19:25 19:30 20:00 20:00 20:10 20:15 20:15 20:40 20:55 21:00 21:15 21:25 21:35 22:00 22:10 22:35 23:00 23:05 23:15 23:35 23:55

AXB DLH BBC AIC PIA THY UAE FDB DHX JZR QTR JZR JZR RJA GFA KAC IRC VOS BAW KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC UAE ABY KAC KAC QTR ETD GFA JZR IRA FCX JZR MEA JZR KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC RBG JZR MSR IRC

Departure Flights on Wednesday 30/3/2011 390 MANGALORE / KOZHIKODE 637 FRANKFURT 46 DHAKA 982 AHMEDABAD / CHENNAI 206 LAHORE 773 ISTANBUL 854 DUBAI 68 DUBAI 371 BAHRAIN 554D ALEXANDRIA 139 DOHA 560 SOHAG 164 DUBAI 643 AMMAN 212 BAHRAIN 801 CAIRO 6963 TEHRAN 94 DUBAI / KANDAHAR 156 LONDON 545 ALEXANDRIA 54 DUBAI 177 FRANKFURT / GENEVA 671 DUBAI 551 DAMASCUS 856 DUBAI 126 SHARJAH 549 SHARM EL SHEIKH / SOHAG 117 NEW YORK 133 DOHA 302 ABU DHABI 214 BAHRAIN 200 DAMASCUS 602 SHIRAZ 204 DUBAI 256 BEIRUT 405 BEIRUT 776 JEDDAH 541 CAIRO 238 AMMAN 103 LONDON 501 BEIRUT 785 JEDDAH 3558 SOHAG / ALEXANDRIA 176 DUBAI 611 CAIRO 6792 MASHAD

0:25 0:40 1:00 1:05 1:10 2:15 3:45 3:50 3:55 4:00 5:00 5:55 6:55 7:00 7:10 7:20 7:55 8:00 8:25 8:35 8:40 8:55 9:00 9:10 9:40 9:50 9:55 10:00 10:00 10:15 10:20 10:20 10:25 11:45 11:50 11:55 12:00 12:00 12:10 12:30 13:00 13:30 13:35 13:40 14:20 14:25

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

RJA FDB UAL KAC KNE KAC SVA SYR KAC QTR CLX KAC JZR ETD UAE GFA ABY JZR JZR SVA JZR SVA JZR ALK IYE KAC KAC FDB KAC KAC OMA MEA JAI MSR DHX UAE GFA KAC FCX QTR KAC KAC JZR UAL KAC SAI

641 58 982 673 746 617 503 342 773 135 792 613 786 304 858 216 128 184 266 511 204 2371 134 228 824 283 361 62 331 351 648 403 571 619 373 860 218 381 102 137 301 205 502 981 415 442

AMMAN DUBAI BAHRAIN DUBAI JEDDAH DOHA MEDINAH / JEDDAH DAMASCUS RIYADH DOHA HONG KONG BAHRAIN RIYADH ABU DHABI DUBAI BAHRAIN SHARJAH DUBAI BEIRUT RIYADH DAMASCUS JEDDAH BAHRAIN DUBAI / COLOMBO SANAA DHAKA COLOMBO DUBAI TRIVANDRUM COCHIN MUSCAT BEIRUT MUMBAI ALEXANDRIA BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN DELHI BAHRAIN DOHA MUMBAI ISLAMABAD LUXOR WASHINGTON DC DULLES KUALA LUMPUR / JAKARTA LAHORE

14:30 14:35 14:45 15:10 15:30 15:35 15:45 16:00 16:05 16:15 16:20 16:20 16:35 17:35 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:25 18:30 18:35 18:55 19:00 19:10 19:10 19:40 20:00 20:20 20:40 21:00 21:05 21:10 21:15 21:40 21:55 22:00 22:25 22:30 22:30 22:30 22:35 22:45 22:55 23:05 23:40 23:50 23:59

38

star CROSSWORD 272

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

s

STAR TRACK

CALVIN & HOBBES

Aries (March 21-April 19) The labor of your hard work will show great rewards this morning. Perhaps you have been working with some new project today. Whatever the case, you are interested in getting as much accomplished as possible. You put a lot of effort and forethought into whatever it is you are doing today. Your personality is magnetic and can be passed very easily to another person. You will be highly successful in the results that you set out to achieve. Allow your positive energy to work through you now. Emotions today, as well as the feelings of those around you, may become very clear. If you are not cleaning up this evening, you will most certainly find yourself relaxing and having fun with friends.

Start the evening out with laughter.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) By noon you will be receiving praises and rewards for the results of your hard work. You may be giving a lecture, finishing a creative project or baking a cake. Whatever you do now will create rave reviews for your efforts. Friends this afternoon may unconsciously bring to bear an old issue you thought had become unimportant. Take a look at the things that move or twist your emotions the most and you may shed some light on what is really behind some longterm issue. You may find yourself reflecting on your own youth or some event in the past. This evening you may enjoy a good movie or book or feel like escaping from dayto-day realities for a while. You can appreciate an imaginative approach and may value futuristic ideas.

POOCH CAFE ACROSS 1. Syndrome resulting from a serious acute (sometimes fatal) infection associated with the presence of staphylococcus.

4. Someone who operates a barge.

10. Experiencing or showing sorrow or unhappiness.

13. Not in.

14. Apathy and inactivity in the practice of virtue (personified as one of the deadly sins).

15. A branch of the Tai languages.

16. A member of the Siouan people formerly living in the Missouri river valley in NE Nebraska.

18. An emergency procedure consisting of external cardiac massage and artificial respiration.

20. Plant with an elongated head of broad stalked leaves resembling celery.

22. Naked freshwater or marine or parasitic protozoa that form temporary pseudopods for feeding and locomotion.

24. Causing a dull and steady pain.

25. A federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment.

27. The basic unit of electric current adopted under the System International d'Unites.

28. A light touch or stroke.

30. 100 halers equal 1 koruna.

33. The father of your father or mother.

37. A port city of south central Ukraine on an arm of the Black Sea. 38. An associate degree in applied science.

39. Payment made to a person in a position of trust to corrupt his judgment.

42. Before noon.

44. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

46. Being or moving higher in position or greater in some value.

47. Marked by quiet and caution and secrecy.

51. African tree having an exceedingly thick trunk and fruit that resembles a gourd and has an edible pulp called monkey bread.

54. Type genus of the Cariamidae comprising only the crested cariama.

56. Any of several plants of the genus Camassia.

59. The branch of computer science that deal with writing computer programs that can solve problems creatively.

60. (Irish) Mother of the ancient Irish gods.

62. A workplace for the conduct of scientific research.

64. A large fleet.

66. A compartment in front of a motor vehicle where driver sits.

67. A doctor's degree in dental surgery.

68. Solid excretory product evacuated from the bowels.

69. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

DOWN 1. Formerly included in genus Cedrela.

2. Wood of a sumac.

3. Spherical gram-positive parasitic bacteria that tend to form irregular colonies.

4. The cry made by sheep.

5. A radioactive element of the actinide series.

6. A summary that repeats the substance of a longer discussion.

7. Measure of the US economy adopted in 1991.

8. A genus of Mustelidae.

9. (Akkadian) God of wisdom.

10. A tall tower that forms the superstructure of a building (usually a church or temple) and that tapers to a point at the top.

11. According to the Old Testament he was a pagan king of Israel and husband of Jezebel (9th century BC).

12. Amino acid that is formed in the liver and converted into dopamine in the brain.

17. Austrian composer who influenced the classical form of the symphony (1732-1809).

19. A member of a people who have no permanent home but move about according to the seasons.

21. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables.

23. Shrubby tree widely distributed along tropical shores.

26. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

29. A public promotion of some product or service.

31. (Old Testament) The eldest son of Isaac who would have inherited the Covenant that God made with Abraham and that Abraham passed on to Isaac.

32. An inclined surface or roadway that moves traffic from one level to another.

34. An intensely radioactive metallic element that occurs in minute amounts in uranium ores.

35. A very poisonous metallic element that has three allotropic forms.

36. Any of numerous low-growing cushion-forming plants of the genus Draba having rosette-forming leaves and terminal racemes of small flowers with scapose or leafy stems.

40. A plant hormone promoting elongation of stems and roots.

41. Thick heavy expensive material with a raised pattern.

42. (Akkadian) God of wisdom.

43. (Greek mythology) Goddess of the earth and mother of Cronus and the Titans in ancient mythology.

45. Fallow deer.

48. Submerged aquatic plant having narrow leaves and small flowers.

49. A trivalent metallic element of the rare earth group.

50. Valuable fiber plant of East Indies now widespread in cultivation.

52. A pale rose-colored variety of the ruby spinel.

53. An indehiscent fruit derived from a single ovary having one or many seeds within a fleshy wall or pericarp.

54. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

55. God of death.

57. Someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike.

58. A island in the Netherlands Antilles that is the top of an extinct volcano.

61. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric.

63. A bachelor's degree in science.

65. A state in New England.

Yesterday’s Solution

Gemini (May 21-June 20) You will have several opportunities to express your opinion today. You will be able to put your ideals into practice and enlarge the range of your creativeness. This may mean your work is on display. Spend a little time to take care of any last minute details—mental discipline should come easily.

Problems should find easy explanations under your keen examination. You share time with a friend this afternoon and find yourself in an ongoing, deep conversation about the story of life and living. You usually share intelligent ideas with friends because your friends are very intelligent, but the conversations this evening are fun and contagious.

Avoid addictive behaviors and focus on maintaining that balance that you have worked hard to achieve.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

NON SEQUITUR

This can be a phase of sublime spiritual development, to be sure. You should, however, be aware of the tendencies to believe too quickly, too deeply, or to become dependent on things or people that seem to offer quick and easy answers. Communicating and getting your message across to others is very important just now . . . you may even find yourself expressing your own sign language. While you seem to attract people with opposing viewpoints, it is a good day to study the unusual. Relationships tend to intensify during this time.

You may feel unusually affectionate and physical now with a cheerful and optimistic attitude. Romance can be quite enjoyable this evening, especially if you say yes to a dinner date.

Leo (July 23-August 22) Remain optimistic when you face restrictions, limitations or delays. Acceptance is the key to unlocking the doors of opportunity and growth. Reach beyond your norm and make every effort now to finish what you begin. Your personal popularity is on the upswing. Whatever you are doing; keep it going! In everything you do, create a balance and make sure your energies match the things you strive to achieve. Others credit you for your ability to make practical decisions concerning group issues. You have a true understanding of young people and may be asked to help with some leadership program this afternoon. There is a chance to draw close to a loved one this evening. Consider a dream diary to record your dreams.

ZITS

Virgo (August 23-September 22) You may want to take part in a working partnership or group activities. You appreciate your responsibilities and duty. Problems are valued for the lessons they represent, rather than perceived as obstacles, and you teach others with this attitude. This is a good day to get things done. Good eye-hand coordination and a persistent effort make most tasks run well. You can really get your thoughts and ideas across with good communication. You may feel like exercising different muscles this afternoon . . . perhaps a bicycle ride with a friend. Marriage and other close relationships give rise to great expectations as a new cycle gets underway in your life. This evening is a good time to enjoy and appreciate your station in life. Life is good.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM

You may feel particularly independent today. An early morning run or bicycle ride may help you to adjust to the rest of your day or . . . just enjoy the ability to be out-of-doors. There is much mental busywork today.

Teamwork in the workplace proves to be successful on every level. There is a great deal of growth to be enjoyed, especially in the area of clients. You will want to be showing your gratitude and appreciation for others who share your workday. The clients are happy with the all the results of the group today. A heightened interest in health, as well as an urge to get things organized, is strong this afternoon and you may find yourself hiring someone to build racks in the garage and laundry room so that you can become more in control.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) This is a great time to be with others. Your work may be filled with lots of volunteer opportunities. If work is slow, this would be the time to step up and volunteer. If your day is packed full of responsibilities, find one thing that you can share with a co-worker and work together to help eliminate the extra work. Working with—rather than against—the flow should be easy to do. You are at the end of a long phase in your life that will leave you with some real insight into your very own personal growth and development; particularly regarding the spirit. Go with the flow and when you find yourself frustrated, know that you are fighting the flow of life—stop and become quiet. Read about meditation and gently try a few techniques.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) A round table discussion may lead to subjects that are outside the realm of your work. It is time to take notes and study the trend of conversation—picking up new ways to become better informed. Later today you could check out the business magazines. Eventually you will be able to communicate ideas about ways to improve current business. There are new techniques that will help you and your company move forward and become more productive. Make sure you have all your information on paper for all to view. This is a good workday and has possibilities for future advancement. This evening is perfect for enjoying your family.

Travel can be considered soon. For the immediate future, plan some in-town travel to a public garden or zoo.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

To

Becoming involved with cleanup committees for the office is a good thing. Office cleaning crews come and go but they are not going to file the folders and clean off the desks. You and another co-worker work out a reward system for keeping the department tidy and someone may decide it is time to concentrate on some current project. Work moves faster when you can find what you need and everyone seems to be in a good mood and intent to complete whatever work is at hand. At home this afternoon you may decide to put up new paper towel racks or shelving. You do not waste any time getting things accomplished. After dinner, you and your neighborhood friends may discuss local businesses and citizen projects.

Yesterday’s Solution Yester

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) A slow, methodical approach to a personal mathematical or accounting problem will show you where a problem has continued for way too long. You may wonder why you put these personal business issues aside for so long. An unknown source says, “Life is easier than you think; all you have to do is: accept the impossible, do without the indispensable, bear the intolerable and be able to smile at anything.” Your relationship with others, especially female friends, will be more harmonious than usual today. You could sub as a counselor to someone who needs a listening ear this evening, or perhaps some tutoring or coaching. You will make a positive difference—just because you care. Keep watch on your evening walk for a fun new animal.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

Word Sleuth Solution

You may decide to ride on the new city transportation system.

A sense of adventure creates the desire to go into interesting places and you may make a few plans for some weekend adventure. For today, it is work and making the best impression you can. You do well as you talk a customer into just the right pair of shoes or just the right piece of furniture. When you take your break, consider a trip to a bookstore—this is a good time to expand your thinking. Books to help you make more sales will give you some of the answers you have been seeking. The memory of a dream is fun conversation this evening. A loved one wants to talk about his or her dreams as well. A dream diary may be fun for each of you to keep—future contemplation.

A

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

Years

i n f o r m at i o n FIRE BRIGADE

112

Al-Madena

22418714

Al-Shohada’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

24812000

Al-Jahra

25610011

Amiri Hospital

22450005

Al-Salmiya

25616368

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

24874330/9

Ministry of Interior website: www.moi.gov.kw For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128

Hospitals Sabah Hospital

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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

lifestyle

$100 m suit

Oprah dodges

G O S S I P

federal judge in Pennsylvania has tossed out an author’s $100 million lawsuit against Oprah Winfrey for violating the copyright in the political booklet, “How America Elects Her Presidents.” Charles Harris claimed in a lawsuit that in 2008, as Winfrey began supporting Barack Obama’s presidential campaign, Harris sent 10 copies of his booklet to “The Oprah Winfrey Show” in hopes of gaining publicity. He followed up with several inquiries.

Harris got no response, but according to the complaint, on the Feb. 16, 2009 show, Winfrey allegedly read aloud exact questions that were included in the book. Harris wanted more than $100 million for alleged copyright infringement. Winfrey filed a motion to dismiss, seeking sanctions for a frivolous lawsuit, saying that had the plaintiff obtained a public transcript of the show in question, he would have realized that the talk show host didn’t read Harris’ “exact same questions” aloud with the arguable exception of one: “Which one of our presidents weighed the most?” During the episode, titled “Oprah’s Search For The Smartest and Most Talented Kids,” she brought children on set, including one six-year-old named Graham who she said was a “first grade whiz kid who knows more about American presidents than most adults.” Oprah and Graham joshed about various presidents from George Washington to Barack Obama, before the talk show queen queried the kid about the heaviest president. Graham correctly answered it was William Howard Taft at 327 pounds. Winfrey’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit said Harris’ lawyers should have known that facts about American presidents are not copyrightable. A compilation of facts based on the selection and arrangement can be copyrightable, but Winfrey pointed out that Harris didn’t register his work as a compilation, and it lacked originality, among other things. US District Court Judge Jan DuBois agreed that Harris’ work is “not original,” and that Winfrey’s use of the Fat Taft fact, even if she did learn it from Harris’ book, was not an infringement. The judge, however, determined that the plaintiff’s claims were made with reasonable good faith under the circumstance, and declined to award sanctions.

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Mirren makes impression in Hollywood elen Mirren is still making an impression in Hollywood. The Oscar winning actress sank her feet in wet cement outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre on Monday, joining a long list of celebrity hand and foot prints in the

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courtyard of the famed Hollywood tourist spot.

The ceremony comes less than two weeks before the release of her latest movie, “Arthur.” She plays the nanny to the irresponsible billionaire played by Russell Brand. M irren won an

Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in the 2006 film “The Queen.”‘ She also got Oscar nominations for her roles in “The Madness of King George,” “Gosford Park” and “The Last Station.

Rapper Ross

arrested apper Rick Ross was arrested and booked with possession of marijuana in Louisiana after being caught with one gram of the drug in a hotel room, police said on Monday. Ross, 35, whose real name is William Roberts but adopted a stage name inspired by former Los Angeles drug dealer Ricky Ross, was caught with marijuana on Friday at the Hilton Hotel in Shreveport, Louisiana, police spokesman Bill Goodin said. Police responded to a citizen’s complaint about “an odor of marijuana” coming from the Florida rapper’s hotel room, Goodin said. Another man with Ross in the hotel was arrested for possessing eight grams of the drug. The rapper, whose albums include

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“Port of Miami,” “Teflon Don” and “Deeper than Rap,” was charged with one count of a first offense of possession of marijuana and was released from jail on a misdemeanor summons. In the past the rapper, whose lyrics have bragged of a cash-fueled, drug boss life, has dealt with image problems after it was revealed he had once worked as a corrections officer, an occupation that jars with the hustling image of some rappers, including Ross. Ross initially denied the reports, then admitted it but maintained his drug-dealing tales of the street were true.

Hemsworth hammers

on Hollywood’s door as Thor

Lowe dishes on early years with

Charlie Sheen ob Lowe gives fellow Brat Packer Charlie Sheen a slight edge when it comes to partying. Lowe tells Vanity Fair that in past days, he and Sheen “competed to see who could play harder, then show up for work.” Lowe recently finished his autobiography and shared excerpts with the magazine. He calls Sheen “a wonderful mix of nerd and rebel” and speaks of days when the two were relatively unknown actors who plotted their careers in Sheen’s pool. Sheen has made headlines for his wild partying. He was fired from his hit CBS TV comedy show, “Two and a Half Men,” then alleged breach of contract and sued the show’s producers. The May issue of Vanity Fair will be on newsstands in New York and Los Angeles on Thursday and across the nation April 5.

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‘Trek’ captain Abrams revisits youth in ‘Super 8’ J Abrams is making good use of his boyhood apprenticeship making super-8 movies. The director of 2009’s “Star Trek” and creator of TV’s “Lost” revisits his childhood with this summer’s “Super 8,” about a band of kids shooting a monster movie who end up documenting a train wreck that unleashes an alien force. The movie is the most autobiographical he has worked on, Abrams said in an

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interview at CinemaCon, a Las Vegas convention for theater owners where he showed off footage Monday night. The youths in “Super 8” are doing exactly what the 44-year-old Abrams was doing three decades ago, when he was obsessed with making his own horror films and monster flicks. Abrams said it was uncanny and surreal re-creating those experiences for a big Hollywood movie.

Black

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takes Po the kung fu panda to 3-D realm ack Black figures if any action hero deserves the 3-D treatment, it’s his pudgy panda with the martial-arts moves. Black joined DreamWorks Animation colleagues Monday night to show off extended action scenes from “Kung Fu Panda 2” at CinemaCon, a Las Vegas convention for theater owners. The 2008 original took in $630 million worldwide in just two dimensions.

But the sequel due out May 26 will be in 3-D, with the extra box-office revenue that generally follows as fans shell out a few dollars more to gain the illusion of depth. Black said the 3-D action will make “King Fu Panda 2” more of a thrill ride, dropping viewers right into the heart of the battles. “My feeling is

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hris Hemsworth is turning the mighty Thor’s fall from grace into his own personal rise to Hollywood stardom. Hemsworth stars in the title role of “Thor,” the Marvel Comics superhero adaptation that opens May 6 to lead off what is expected to be a season of summer blockbusters. The 27-year-old Australian actor joined distributor Paramount Pictures to show off footage of “Thor” to theater owners Monday night at their CinemaCon convention in Las Vegas, where Hemsworth will receive an award Thursday as male star of tomorrow. After a six-month casting process, Hemsworth said he felt as if he had won the lottery when he got the role as the fallen Norse god, particularly given his colleagues on “Thor.” Among them: Oscar winners Natalie Portman and Anthony Hopkins and director Kenneth Branagh. “As a young actor being in this town, prior to this, it was knocking on doors and auditioning and going on the rounds,” Hemsworth said in an interview.

“This has sort of set me up, hopefully, for more of these films and opened other doors.” With “Thor” still weeks away from its premiere, Hemsworth already is heading back to the set to reprise the role in the ensemble superhero adventure “The Avengers,” due out in 2012. The film teams Hemsworth’s Thor with other big-screen Marvel Comics idols, including Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, Chris Evans as Captain America and Mark Ruffalo as the Incredible Hulk.

The “Thor” footage shown at CinemaCon chronicles the fall of the hero from Asgard, the realm of the Norse gods. Cocky and quarrelsome, Thor is cast out by his father (Hopkins) and banished to learn some humility among mortals on Earth, where he falls in with a team of scientists that includes Portman. “—Bang Showbiz

that 3-D with the right people, the right artists and technicians flying it, is amazing and definitely enhances the experience for the right movie,” Black said. “‘Kung Fu Panda 2’? Yes, it will make it more exciting and dynamic and amazing to watch. Whereas, let’s say, there was going to be ‘My Dinner with Andre 2.’ I would say not necessary to do 3-D.” The sequel reunites Black with a voice cast that includes Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, Seth Rogen, Jackie Chan and Lucy Liu. Gary Oldman joins the lineup to provide the voice of a new villain, a peacock who unleashes a deadly new weapon in the ancient Chinese realm that Black’s Po and his comrades are sworn to defend.

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M o v i e s

Beyonce’s father will no longer manage her career B

Ultra Music Festival extends its global reach

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nce a humble beach party, Miami’s mega-hip Ultra Music Festival is expanding to Asia and Australia after a sellout, three-day rave this past weekend that left revelers nursing a nasty hangover Monday. Around 150,000 sun-baked party-goers were whipped into a frenzy in downtown Miami by the Chemical Brothers, Underworld, Armin van Buuren, Tiesto and Moby, among other major international music acts. Rocks bands such as Duran Duran were added to the traditionally electronica line-up for the 13th Ultra, and organizers unveiled plans for spin-off events in Sydney, Australia and Seoul, South Korea to festivals already taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil and Ibiza, Spain.

“Ultra has become very international,” award-winning singersongwriter Moby told Reuters. “I love the bombastic spectacle of 20,000 people jumping up and down. “There’s a huge sound system, huge video screen, a huge lighting thing, and I’m just like the little, middle-aged bald guy playing records,” added the bespectacled Moby who, on stage at the giant gathering, became a wildeyed musical dictator to the sweat-drenched, dancing crowd.

The three-day event featured some 200 acts playing a mix of music to outlandishly dressed fans who blew whistles and pumped fists to throbbing electronic beats. Even the on-site fire trucks honked their horns in tune with headline acts. Founder Russell Faibisch expressed amazement at Ultra’s evolution from what began as little more than a small party of friends in Miami to the U.S. music festival season’s big kickoff that can attract almost any artist in the world. “Yeah, it started on the beach,” he said with a sheepish grin. “Right now we’re booking for 2012. We have the chance to get pretty much anyone. I’m amazed every day. “Duran Duran were touring, they’ve got a new album out...and it was just a good fit.”

Adam Russakoff, Faibisch’s business partner, added that electronica festivals are moving toward more live performances, so it seemed natural to have acts such as Duran Duran, Pendulum, Royksopp, Erasure, Holy Ghost! and others perform. Duran Duran, who had a string of smash hits such as “Rio” and “Hungry Like the Wolf” in the 1980s, brought the house down on opening night with a set including tracks off their latest release “All You Need is Now.” “Although it’s ostensibly a dance festival we’ve always tried to keep one foot on the dance floor,” Duran Duran keyboard player Nick Rhodes told Reuters. “You’re never going to have an insane reaction with 50,000 people half of whom probably don’t know many of your songs. But we definitely connected with this mob on some level!” Bassist John Taylor agreed that the band’s new material was widely well received by the young. “It is quite empowering the new stuff,” he said. “It has like a slightly retro tinge to it, which takes everybody back a few years.”

British synthpop duo Erasure confessed to stage fright before playing what was their first show in four years. “We’re a bit nervous,” said frontman Andy Bell, ahead of a set consisting exclusively of old hits which received a mixed reception before sun fell over the eight-stage venue. —Reuters

The 29-year-old has released three multiplatinum albums “Dangerously In Love,” “B’Day” and “I Am ... Sasha Fierce” - and has 12 Top 10 hits on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart, including five No 1s. Destiny’s Child had 11 Top 10 hits on the Hot 100 chart and six No 1s. During Beyonce’s teen years in Houston, Knowles prepped her, her friend Kelly Rowland and two others for a rising career as an R&B girl group, and Destiny’s Child released its self-titled debut in 1998. Their sophomore album, “The Writing’s On the Wall,” came a year later and garnered multiple hits and two Grammys, but the success also shook up the band and Destiny’s Child became a trio with Beyonce, Rowland and Michelle Williams.

The three also released solo albums, all managed by Knowles. He launched his own label, World Music Entertainment, via Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music. Rowland parted with Knowles as her manager in 2009 and Williams followed a year later. In the statement, Beyonce stressed her devotion to her father on a personal level. “He is my father for life and I love my dad

vs some tough babes

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wo very different newcomers are set to duke it out at the nation’s theaters this weekend, with the family-friendly sequel to last year’s surprise hit “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” going up against the fan-boy fantasy “Sucker Punch.” In one corner we have Warner Bros.’ girl-powered “Sucker Punch” in 3-D from visionary director Zack Snyder, who had success in bringing both his Spartan-epic “300” and the hyper-kinetic “Watchmen” to the big screen.

Now, “Sucker Punch,” with a stylish trailer that showcased the collective beauty of its female punch and the music of Led Zeppelin, should again have the fan boys - and girls - running to the multiplex. Trying to prove that it’s no wimp at the box office, Fox’s “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules” follows the further exploits of Rodrick and Greg Heffley as they deal with the humiliations and triumphs of adolescent life.

The original film in the franchise opened about a year ago and went on to earn $64 million domestically. Look for both “Sucker Punch” and “Wimpy Kid” to gross in the high teens or low 20s.

America’s newly-appointed leading man, Bradley Cooper, will see a modest drop for last weekend’s No. 1 film, the mind-bending “Limitless” from Relativity Media, and likely wind up with around $12 million for the weekend. A surprisingly strong debut proved that “Hangover” favorite Cooper is a box office draw in his own right.

Paramount’s animated “Rango” will enter its fourth weekend with continued momentum, earning another $10 million and eclipsing the $100 million mark overall after a second-place finish last weekend. “The Lincoln Lawyer” from Lionsgate will likely round out the top five in the $7 million to $9 million range after generating strong word-of-mouth in its debut last weekend as demonstrated by an uptick of 37 percent from Friday to Saturday. Some of that may have also resulted from a unique arrangement with Groupon.com to promote the Matthew McConaughey vehicle. — AP

In this publicity image released by 20th Century Fox, Zachary Gordon, right and Robert Capron are shown in a scene from, ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules.’ — AP

Wiz Khalifa gets out his ‘Rolling Papers’

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here was a clear winner at February’s Super Bowl, but it wasn’t the Green Bay Packers.

Pittsburgh-based rapper Wiz Khalifa, whose major label debut “Rolling Papers” drops on yesterday, was enjoying the success of his first big hit, “Black and Yellow.” The song, a tribute to his city, was adopted as the unofficial fight song of the Pittsburgh Steelers who played the Packers in professional football’s championship.

Khalifa’s team may have lost that day, but shortly thereafter the 23year-old whose mellow and melodic raps often focus on women and marijuana, had the top song in the United States after five years of quietly mak-

Wiz Khalifa

dearly. I am grateful for everything he has taught me,” Beyonce said. Knowles also got personal in his statement. “Business is business and family is family. I love my daughter and am very proud of who she is and all that she has achieved. I look forward to her continued great success,” he said.

Knowles and Beyonce’s mother, Tina, divorced in 2009 after 29 years of marriage. Tina Knowles worked as a stylist for Destiny’s Child and continues to style her daughter. Together they launched a clothing line, House of Dereon. Noel-Schure didn’t comment on who Beyonce’s new manager would be. Knowles said his plans include focusing on his label’s work in gospel and inspirational music, where he said the company has made a “tremendous investment.” — AP

Wimpy Kid

ing a name for himself. Perhaps the most covered and reworked song of the year, “Black and Yellow ” has spawned countless imitations, including “Black and Guido” an interracial love song from Jersey Shore cast member Vinny Guadagnino and “ White and Purple” an ode to Northwestern University.

“A lot of stuff that has happened has come by surprise,” said Wiz, reflecting on the events of the last several months, “I’m really humbled by it.” The most exciting thing that has happened, has been working with rap superstar Snoop Dogg. The two are collaborating on a comedy film and its soundtrack titled “High School” and Wiz will appear on the elder rapper ’s upcoming LP, “Doggumentary.”

Wiz, whose real name is Cameron Thomaz, was raised by military parents who frequently moved when he was a small child, living in Japan and Germany before settling in Pennsylvania. He began rapping at 9years-old and by his teens was selling CDs in the hallways of his school. “My mom and dad, they’re proud of me,” said Wiz, “this is what I’ve been working on since I was little. Since day one. We grew up listening to everything. I combine it in my music.

That’s what makes my sound-just being a fan of everything.”

Prior to releasing “Black and Yellow” last fall, Wiz made several well-received mixtapes and independent albums. In 2006, Rolling Stone magazine labeled him a new artist to watch. He signed with

Warner Brothers records in 2008 and released “Say Yeah” a party song that sampled Dutch techno-pop group Alice Deejay. But his relationship with Warner Brothers dissolved soon after, and the rapper didn’t sign another major label deal until joining Atlantic Records last year.

Despite the years of work leading up to the release of “Rolling Papers,” Wiz says he takes no offense to being called a fresh face. “I still feel like a new artist. I’m still new on a mainstream level and new on a lot of people’s radar.” He suffered a setback last November when police in Greenville, North Carolina arrested Wiz and members of his entourage after smelling marijuana backstage at a concert. Upon his release, the rapper said via Twitter, “jail sux.”

Wiz claims to have become more disciplined leading up to his Atlantic debut, “My lifestyle hasn’t completely changed but everything is more professional now. It has to be, it’s just part of the job.” Although, “Rolling Papers” is expected to be one of the biggest hip-hop albums of the year, Wiz seemed calm ahead of its release and refused to get caught up in his own hype. “I don’t have any expectations,” said Wiz. “I still got a lot of dues to pay. Even though I’m in the game now, some people don’t think it will last. I still have to prove them wrong.”— Reuters

Vintage Bollywood studio faces uncertain future

(File) singer Beyonce Knowles arrives at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards with her father and manager Mathew Knowles in Los Angeles.

— AP

eyonce will no longer be managed by her father, Mathew Knowles, her publicist said Monday. The Grammy-winning singer and her father have parted ways “on a business level,” publicist Yvette NoelSchure told The Associated Press in a statement. “I am grateful for everything he has taught me,” Beyonce said in the statement. “I grew up watching both he and my mother manage and own their own businesses. They were hardworking entrepreneurs and I will continue to follow in their footsteps.” She didn’t say what led to the split, but her father said in a separate statement to the AP late Monday that the decision was mutual.

Knowles has managed his daughter since she debuted as a teen in the multiplatinum-selling group Destiny’s Child in the late 1990s and throughout her superstar career as a solo artist. Knowles oversaw all aspects of Beyonce, from music to movies to fashion and more. Her career includes 16 Grammy awards, top-grossing movies “Dreamgirls” and “Obsessed,” fashion ventures and lucrative endorsements.

(File) Workers inside the complex’s police station set at the Filmistan Studio in Mumbai. — AFP

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ehboob Khan has carried equipment at the Filmistan Studio for the last 40 years, rubbing shoulders with some of the greatest names in Bollywood and playing a small role in the making of hit movies. The ageing, slightly-built laborer is happy to show visitors around the complex in Mumbai and glows with pride as he pushes open the high, wooden gates to get to the studio’s very own prison.

“Every actor, be it Dilip Kumar or even Shah Rukh Khan, has been imprisoned in this jail while shooting their films,” he told AFP. “If there’s a jail scene in any Bollywood film, there’s no better place to shoot in Mumbai.” In a modern-day world of big budgets and jet-setting film stars, the Filmistan Studio in the Mumbai suburb of Goregaon is as much a part of Bollywood’s past as Pinewood Studios is to British cinema or Warner Bros to Hollywood.

The studio began life in 1943 as a production house and went on to make nearly 60 hit films in the golden age of Bollywood in the 1940s and 1950s, including “Nagin” (Snake), “Anarkali”, “Shaheed” (Martyr) and “Shabnam”. The 14-set studio was sold to a mill owner in the 1950s and has been rented out ever since to filmmakers.

But doubts were recently raised about its future amid reports that the 4.5-acre (1.8-hectare) site could be sold for up to six billion rupees ($131 million) and turned into a residential or commercial complex. The Times of India newspaper said the studio’s landowners-a real estate firm-had decided to sell because it was no longer financially viable.

“This is just a rumour that the studio is not doing well,” insisted Anil Kumar Jalan, one of seven brothers who owns the film set location that is a world away from the modern cinema of special effects and exotic foreign locales. “We have overbooking many times. In fact, we are thinking of expanding because there is too much demand. “My father, Tolaram Jalan, has been associated with this studio from 1944 and we have emotional ties with it. He produced 72 films and we will see to it that shooting will never stop here. We don’t want to sell this studio.”

With Indian property law stating that landlord and tenant have to agree to any sale, the studio is looking to the future and is keen to show what they can still offer. In an area of Mumbai now known for gleaming call centre offices, the studio provides a slice of traditional India, including a small garden for shooting romantic songs, a temple for heroes to worship at and even an authentic village.

Its web site-filmistanstudio.com-boasts of its place in Bollywood history as well as its ability to service the growing Indian television and film industries at competitive rates. Recent productions shot in the studio include the 2009 comedy drama “Delhi-6” starring Abhishek Bachchan and the comedy “Horn ‘OK’ Pleassss”, the website says. Like Mehboob Khan, Filmistan manager Jasraj S. Purohit is particularly proud of the prison. “We have renovated the jail recently. We have got extra rooms that can fit into cells. There is also a torture room that gives you a real feeling of the jail,” he said.

“If you notice the bars, you’ll see that they’re made of rubber and can be stretched. The audience thinks they’re made of steel and clap in theatres when the hero bends them. “We have then also furnished our old police station and given it a completely modern look. ( The actor) Dev Anand just shot his film ‘Chargesheet’ over there recently.”

Older filmmakers have an attachment to Filmistan Studio and are keen for it not to go the same way as two other vintage studios-Kamalistan and Natraj Studio-which closed down in recent years. “I’ve been coming to this studio for the last 25 years. It has the best facilities that one could think of,” said unit production manager Inderjit Chadha, who recently worked on the animated film “Toonpur Ka Superrhero” (Toontown Superhero).

“I’ve got a long association with the studio and emotional ties. One of my first films, ‘Vardi’ (Uniform) was shot here in the 1980s.” Mehboob Khan also has fond memories for the past, taking out a photograph of himself with Dilip Kumar from his pocket. “I’m a big fan of Dilip. This picture is very precious to me.

Those days it was a different world. Actors were friendly and their pictures used to run for months. “But today the films don’t even run for more than a week at the box office and there is no passion in actors while they act.”

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World’s highest hotel opens in

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he world’s highest hotel opened its doors in Hong Kong yesterday, housed in the city’s tallest skyscraper and offering unrivalled panoramic views of the world famous Victoria Harbor. Towering some 490 meters above the bustling, chaotic streets of the Southern Chinese city, the Ritz-Carlton Hotel is making a grand comeback after temporarily closing in 2008.

Visitors peered out of the floor-to-ceiling windows of the 118th floor of the International Commerce Centre, which houses the hotel, for a 360 degree view of

the glitzy financial hub and the South China Sea. “We’re opening an iconic hotel which took us about 10 years to build,” president and chief operations officer Herve Humler told reporters. “We are taking luxury to new heights in every sense,” he added.

The Ritz-Carlton however will likely lose the world’s highest hotel title in 2014, according to media reports, when the JHotel opens near the top of the over 600metre Shanghai Tower in mainland China.

“People compete all around the world about everything-I’m sure someone some-

where is building an even taller building as we speak,” Humler said. “We emphasize service.” The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong also will be one of the most expensive places to stay in a city already packed with luxury hotels, with the rack rate starting at HK$ 6,000 (US$770) a night for a deluxe room.

A presidential suite is going for HK$100,000. Inside, the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong exudes a chic, modern vibe in the restaurants and lobby areas, with a lot of sparkling decor and chandeliers, the main color themes being black, brown and beige.

Visitors can expect to find facilities that include the highest bar in the world, and a top-floor pool that will feature a 19-metre ceiling-mounted LCD screen which swimmers can watch while enjoying the warmth of the heated water. With 312 guest rooms, the hotel also has one of the largest ballrooms in the city at 930 square meters.

Humler said mainland Chinese customers account for about 35 percent of the hotel group’s market, up from just three to four percent 14 years ago. “This number is expected to rise. Mainland

China is a key market for us. Asia as a region has bounced back significantly in the past year, with business going up about 20 percent in 2010,” said Humler. “In China, everything that is created has to have the “wow” factor to attract the top echelons of society. They want quality ser vice and efficienc y,” the president added. Humler said occupancy rates at Ritz-Carlton Tokyo had plunged from 80 to 15 percent since the Japan nuclear crisis began but he expected it to have little impact on the Hong Kong hotel. — AFP

Italy offers olive branch over ‘stolen’ Getty statue

A File photo shows Britain’s Royal Mail of stamps of Prince William and Kate Middleton. —AP

Royal wedding stamps to go on sale

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ritain’s Royal Mail is celebrating Prince William and Kate Middleton’s wedding with a new set of stamps that feature their official engagement portraits. Two pictures of the couple taken by fashion and celebrity photographer Mario Testino will be printed on the set of commemorative stamps. The collectibles have

n Italian politician offered an olive branch to the Getty Museum on Monday, in a long-running dispute over antiquities allegedly looted for display in California. Gian Mario Spacca, governor of Italy’s Marche region, called on the Los Angeles-based cultural center to “behave ethically” by returning works which did not belong to it, or at least to agree to a deal to share them. A Getty spokeswoman welcomed Spacca’s visit-he toured the Museum on Friday-but pointed out that the main contested work, the socalled Getty Bronze, was subject to ongoing legal action in Italy. “We have not come to declare war on the Getty ... We are here to try to resolve the dispute in a way that will benefit this great museum, the people of Italy and, most important, art

lovers around the world,” Spacca told reporters.

Specifically he proposed a “cultural exchange” deal to share custody of the 2,300-year-old “Victorious Youth” statuecommonly known here as the Getty Bronze-by Greek artist Lisippo. “The Italian people expect a museum as prestigious as the Getty should not be trafficking in illegal art,” Spacca said, adding: “The Getty should show the world it can act like a world-class cultural institution and behave ethically.”

Getty spokeswoman Julie Jaskol said Spacca toured the museum near Malibu, north of Los Angeles. “It was a friendly meeting and we were pleased that the (governor) and his group were able to visit the Getty Villa,” she said. —AFP

been approved by William and will be released on April 21, the birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. William has featured on stamps twice before - to mark the Queen Mother’s 100th birthday on August 4, 2000, and three years later to mark his 21st birthday. The stamps can be ordered from Royal Mail’s website from April 7. — AP

Liz Taylor’s love letters up for auction

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efore becoming a bride eight times over, Elizabeth Taylor was a 17-year-old starlet scribbling letters to her first fiance, charting on pale pink stationery his progression from her one-and-only to the one who got away. “I’ve never known this kind of love before - it’s so perfect and complete - and mature,” Taylor wrote to William Pawley on May 6, 1949. “I’ve never loved anyone in my life before one third as much as I love you - and I never will (well, as far as that goes - I’ll never love anyone else - period).”

Taylor, who died last week at age 79, was engaged to Pawley in 1949, just before her first marriage. More than 60 of the letters she wrote him between March and October of that year will be auctioned in May by RR Auctions of Amherst, New Hampshire. It bought the letters two years ago from Pawley, who lives in Florida.

The unpublished letters - some written in purple fountain ink on pink paper - provide a glimpse of a teenager’s transition to adult screen star. She frets about her weight (“As I’m sitting here - writing to you, I’m just stuffing myself on a box of candy - honestly I’ve got to stop eating so much”) and passing her high school exams. And she contrasts two movies she was filming at the time, “A Place in the Sun” and “The Big Hangover,” praising the director

of the former and complaining about her role in the latter. But mostly, she gushes about Pawley, the 22-year-old son of a former ambassador to Brazil, reassuring him over and over that her love is true.

“My heart aches & makes me want to cry when I think of you, and how much I want to be with and to look into your beautiful blue eyes, and kiss your sweet lips and have your

Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim poses in front of the sculpture The Three Shades by Auguste Rodin, at the Soumaya Museum in Mexico City, on the eve of its opening to the public, on March 28, 2011. —AFP

strong arms hold me, oh so tight, & close to you ... I want us to be ‘lovers’ always ... even after we’ve been married seventyfive years and have at least a dozen great-great-grandchildren,” she wrote on March 28.

In May, she told Pawley she was ready to say goodbye to her career and everything connected with it, “For I won’t be giving anything up - but I will be gaining the greatest gift that God bestows on man - love, marriage, a family - and you my Darling.” By September, however, Taylor was writing about returning her engagement ring at Pawley’s request. —AP

Mexican billionaire’s art museum opens to public

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he new Mexico City museum of the world’s richest man, Carlos Slim, opened its doors yesterday, giving the public a glimpse of a collection of more than 66,000 works of art. The Soumaya Museum, named after Slim’s late wife, draws on works of mainly Mexican and European art, including Rodin, Cezanne, Renoir and Leonardo Da Vinci, as well as coins and documents from the 16th century Spanish conquest.

Slim told a news conference Monday that it would enable “Mexicans who can’t travel

abroad to physically get to know works by the greatest artists.”

There will be no entrance fee to the museum which includes a six-story exhibition space, a 350-seat auditorium, a public library, a cafeteria, lounge and warehouses. It is part of an 800-million-dollar urban development scheme, including housing and a five-star hotel. Slim recently made the top of the Forbes rich list for a second consecutive year with a fortune estimated at $74 billion, up $20.5 billion from the previous year. — AFP

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lifestyle F a s h i o n

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erman fashion house Hugo Boss raised its 2011 earnings targets yesterday after posting record 2010 results that were boosted by a very strong fourth quarter.

Hugo Boss now expects currency-adjusted sales to gain at least 12 percent this year, along with a rise in core operating profit of at least 15 percent, a statement said.

“All of the regions and distribution channels will contribute to the gain,” it added. Up till now, the company had forecast at least seven percent higher sales and non-specified but superior increase in earnings before interest, taxes, deprecia-

tion and amortization (Ebitda). Last year, Hugo Boss bounced back from a crisis with its best results ever, including an 11 percent jump in sales to 1.73 billion euros ($2.4 billion) and a net benefit that soared by 82 percent to 189.2 million euros.

Ebitda before exceptional items was 31 percent higher at almost 350 million euros, and the group will propose a doubling of its dividends, to 2.02 euros for ordinary shares and 2.03 euros for preferential ones, the statement said. The last quarter of 2010 was a particularly good one for Hugo Boss, with sales gaining 30 percent from the same period a year

earlier to 422 million euros and a seven-fold increase in net profit to 34 million euros. The brand makes most of its sales in Europe but is progressing rapidly in both North and South America and especially in the Asia-Pacific region. — AFP

future

The is in the west I

f you walked the floor of the Magic and Project fashion industry trade shows that ran here mid-month, you probably noticed two major themes for fall 2011 casual wear: the Old West and a continuing interest in classic American work wear. The worn-in, vintage look of work wear has been extremely popular for men for several seasons, especially with the revival and hipsterization of labels such as Pendleton and Woolrich. Now that look is marching into fall for women’s accessories, unisex knits and denim.

Bright prints a la Pendleton seem to be everywhere. LA-based bag designer Natsuko Hagiwara of the line Me & Arrow is doing a collection of bags and wallets made from new and vintage fabrics that evoke an old wool blanket sort of feel. Pendleton is also hot on the accessories trail with iPad covers in signature bright, blanket fabrics.

The Old West is coming across the strongest in outerwear. In addition to Pendleton’s wide range of jackets-a light-washed denim jacket with a patterned yoke from the men’s fall line received a strong response from buyersjunior and young contemporary lines such as the Orange County-based BB

A company called the West Is Dead is launching its menswear line for fall 2011 and has focused its entire brand on the American West and work wear.

L.A-based bag designer Natsuko Hagiwara of the line Me & Arrow is doing a collection of bags and wallets that are made of new and vintage fabrics that have an old wool blanket kind of feel.

Dakota and Jack brands drew heavily from the Old West and Southwest prints for their fall coat selection.

An 80-year-old Canadian company, Granted, showed heavy, hand-knit wool jackets that incorporate Native American details such as images of dream catchers and eagles. Another company, called the West Is Dead, is launching its menswear line for fall 2011 and has focused its entire brand on the American West and work wear. The creative directors find inspiration in vintage clothing and incorporate details from authentic industrial work wear into the jeans, barn jackets and cotton knit shirts. Even the brand’s cold-weather gloves are modeled after construction worker-style gloves.

Meanwhile, denim brands such as J Brand, 7 for All Mankind and G-Star Raw are tapping into an aviator-inspired look for their fall 2011 collections. There were plenty of cargo pockets, cropped lengths, slouchy silhouettes and colors like olive, dusty dark purple, burgundy and khaki. Most denim companies are also incorporating plenty of non-denim fabrics such as twill and fleece into their fall collections-so get ready for a lot of twill cropped pants in an array of muted colors.7 for All Mankind, for example, showed styles titled the “Flight Pant” and the “Amelia Pant,” both heavily influenced by the vintage aviator look. G-Star Raw exhibited plenty of slouchy flight-suit-style pants, executed with the company’s edgy aesthetic. And J Brand showed a skinny, twill pant with cargo-style pockets called the Earhart. Come fall, get ready to channel your inner Amelia. — MCT

Leather strides

Models presenting creations from Chinese fashion house Dunnu’s autumn/winter 2011-2012 collection at the China Fashion Week in Beijing. The bi-annual fashion event highlights the latest designs by domestic and international designers. — AFP photos

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eather shorts? Yes, it may sound like something of an oxymoron, but a number of brands and designers are making them for spring’s warmer months. They’re a fresh and interesting take on the traditional shorts silhouette and as light as denim. But they’re not so good with water, so think twice about wearing them to the pool or beach.

For everyday wear or even nighttime events, leather shorts can add edge to sporty or feminine basics. I love the way Phillip Lim styled the bright blue laser-cut leather shorts in his spring 2011 line with a preppy tan sweater and chunky platform wedges.

G Star is making a pair in bone-colored leather, which goes well with other pieces in denim or even just a casual gray T-shirt tucked in.

For an edgier nighttime look, Alexander Wang has a pair of black leather shorts that have an interesting pleat detail on the front and a slanted hem that flatters the leg. Wear these with a bare leg and a chunky black or bold-colored sandal and a classic, fitted tux shirt tucked neatly into the waistband for a sexy and summery take on a tux.

From Robert Rodriguez, there’s a very practical pair of relaxed-fitting leather shorts in a rich chocolate brown. These can be dressed up or down, but they look best paired with rugged basics such as a chambray button-down shirt and a chic pair of wood-soled sandals.

Don’t dismiss leather shorts for spring and summer just because the material seems like it would be too “wintry.” Leather shorts are as versatile as denim but look more polished, and they transition more easily from day to night. Just make sure the forecast doesn’t call for rain when you plan to wear them. — MCT

A model wears an Alexander Wang black leather shorts.

A model wears a Robert Rodriguez brown leather shorts.

Mexican billionaire’s art museum opens to public

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2011

By Sahar Moussa

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o be an artist is a gift from God, but artists seeking appreciation and guidance in the Arab world can face a miserable and thankless time of it, and making a living as an artist can sometimes seem almost impossible. One ambitious young Kuwaiti artist is determined to change things, however, and has been able to build the first bridge to straddle the gap between patrons and the young artists worldwide who need a chance to showcase their artistic creativity.

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swims against the current

ARTSHARKS founder Manayer AlSharekh —Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Manayer AlSharekh is a young Kuwaiti artist from an artistic and educational background. She grew up in a family that appreciates art and provides patronage to artists from all over the Middle East. Just like any young artist when she first graduated she had a dream of making her living from her art and hoped to be able to share it with the world, only to be shocked by the challenges facing young artists and the troubles experienced by some of her talented yet undiscovered peers; from this came her vision which was translated by ARTSHARKS ARTHouse production.

‘I went to art school in London at the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design and when I graduated I didn’t have the means to make a living out of my art, I simply couldn’t make a living in the art world, so that made me think that there’s a gap in the market where a lot of talents is being wasted today, which led me to do my Masters in Business Studies and start this adventure in

September of 2009. So I went to the investment banking like a lot of other people who graduated with me and the idea of ARTSHARKS ARTHouse was born,’ ALSharekh explained.

ARTSHARKS aims to ‘Bridge the Art Gap’ by providing a network and exchange whose members can be exposed to art from all over the world. Its mission is to introduce art to

people’s lives; and to travel the world in search of talented undiscovered artists and provide them with the necessary exposure to support themselves through their art.

‘I’m the creative director of the ARTSHARKS ARTHouse,” AlSharekh explained. “The idea of ARTSHARKS is bridging the art gap; it can be taken in two ways - one is to help the upcoming artists which what we are doing today,

putting them in galleries, and the other is that we commission artists on a regular basis to do pieces that are creatively directed by us, for example the sculpture and the paintings that are showcased in the gallery are all creatively directed by ARTSHARKS, but we have artists who implement them or do them for us.”

The young entrepreneur explained further: “Because not everyone is an artist, a lot of people are very talented in drawing or sculpting, but the thing is, you have to differentiate skill from talent, the people who have skill are just like any skilful person they don’t have the talent to be creative or to be a real artist, so that’s how we can help them to make a living out of art by creatively directing them; So if you are skilled, let us help you and direct you to sell the painting through us.”

AlSharekh believes that there is a great deal of talent in our world today that too often goes to waste because of factors outside people’s control. There’s no need for indepth knowledge of art to use ARTSHARKS’ services, she insists; members just need a passion for creativity and for reaching out to both art enthusiasts and people who feel that they

“cannot be part of that world because they know nothing about art.” This, she says, is why the ARTSHARKS blog, was established (http: // blog.artsharks.net).

‘If you want a presentation as an artist and you think you are an artist here’s where ARTSHARKS ARTHouse production comes in,” AlSharekh continues. “For example, Dana AlHilal, or Jamal Bader are very good Kuwaiti artists that don’t need me to help them but what they need is ARTSHARKS to put them in a gallery, to help people be exposed to their art, that’s what we do - we represent artists as well. We have also artists from all over the world like Ecuador, India and Sweden.”

Talking about the current exhibition being hosted by ARTSHARKS at Kuwait’s FA Gallery, AlSharekh said, “I’m proud to say that this is the first exhibition hosted by the ARTSHARKS ARTHouse to showcase works by 12 of its contemporary Arab artists.”

“When we met Manayer for the first time she was looking for somebody or somewhere to help her showcase artists’ work,” explained gallery curator Abed Kadri. “She collects many artist from Arab countries, including Kuwait, Egypt and Syria. She said that she is planning to launch her arthouse, so we were very excited because, since we open this gallery six month ago on October tenth last year, we hadn’t showcased any Kuwaiti talent with all the artists being from outside Kuwait.”

Kadri voiced enthusiasm about the new venture, saying, “We were really excited for Manayer because she is a young, active ambitious Kuwaiti who’s assembling young Arab artists and talents which is considered a very hard task here in Kuwait,.”

ARTSHARKS also aims to do away with the deep-rooted local idea that artists can only succeed through ‘wasta’ or knowing the right people, as well as trying to understand the needs of artists and the challenges that they face, ‘First of all a lot of artists don’t believe in themselves, because you either make it or you don’t, and a lot of artists who start and have been trying to make it for years have been shut down for so long that they’ve lost all their self esteem and they don’t want to do it anymore,” she told the Kuwait Times.

“Another thing a lot of people don’t understand is why they have to pay for a painting or an artist that is not famous, they don’t appreciate art for its core; art is an acquired taste , and I think that the market here today is still nascent and still beginning , its in its early stages, but, inshallah, in a couple of years’ time it will change,’ She addressed.

She may have started with one dream that blossomed into a vision which she made reality, but AlSharekh’s dreams have no limits, with her passion for art and her genuine belief in and commitment to nourishing and encouraging youthful talents and helping smooth the road for them driving her on to evergreater dreams.

‘My next step and my dream is one day to have the ARTSHARKS ARTHouse become a reality in every aspect,” she revealed. “That will be a base for our artists, a geographical base, a house a building, where the artists can have a workshop, and a gallery in one place and where they can just let go and be a part of ARTSHARKS ARTHouse.”

ARTSHARKS’ current exhibition at the FA Gallery on Gulf Road, next to the Amiri Hospital, runs until April 3.