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200 FilsThursday, December 8, 2016 Issue No. 7224

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We pause today to remember the 2,403 American heroes who selflessly gave their lives at Pearl Harbor 75 years ago...

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Syria armymakes newgains, pins

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P P06P 04 21Future perfect

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Muhannad Mansour/DTNNmuhannad@dt.bh

Manama

The United Kingdom will spend over GBP3 billion

to strengthen its military presence in the Arabian Gulf region, affirmed British Prime Minister Theresa May, while pointing out the establishment of the under-construction British naval base here and other key military projects and schemes in other GCC states.

In her speech at the closing session of the 37th GCC Summit, Theresa May stressed UK’s commitment to the security of the Arabian Gulf region.

In a joint statement after the summit, Britain and the

GCC agreed to a “strategic partnership” that would foster political, defence, security and trade ties, while “developing collective approaches to regional issues”.

“We will invest in hard power, with over GBP3 billion of defence spending in the region over the next decade, spending more on defence in the Gulf than in any other region. Through the construction of HMS Jufair, we will create a permanent presence in the region, with more British warships, aircraft and personnel deployed on operations in the Gulf than in any other part of the world,” she said in her speech.

“Gulf security is our security”“Extremists plotting terror attacks here are not only targeting the Gulf but, the streets of Europe too. Whether we are confronting Al Qaeda or the Daesh, no country is a more committed partner for you in this fight than the UK,” the Prime Minister stated.

“At the same time, a regional land training hub in Oman is establishing a permanent British army presence in the region. We will also go further in deepening our defence co-operation through a new Strategic Partnership between the UK and the GCC, supporting the development of your defence capacity, including for humanitarian

operations and crisis response planning.”

On strengthening military cooperation and renewing relationship the British Premier

told GCC leaders yesterday that UK will make a more enduring commitment to the long-term security of the Gulf. (continued on page 2)

From left: Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Kuwaiti Emir Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah, Qatari Emir Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Oman Deputy Premier Sayyid Fahad bin Mahmoud Al Said, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, British Prime Minister Theresa May, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, UAE Vice President and Dubai Ruler Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum , Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani during the closing ceremony of the 37th GCC Summit in Kingdom

Highlights of May’s speechA military officer to be embedded with Bahrain’s bomb disposal unit

A new permanent defence staff to come up in Dubai

New National Security Dialogue at GCC level to protect critical national infrastructure, facilitate faster intelligence sharing

A Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism will be established

Traveller screening systems to be implemented at airports to detect terrorists

Kuwait will be the next venue as the 37th GCC Summit comes to a close in Bahrain

11th HourGCC Summit resolutions hailedManama

Shura Council Chairman Ali Saleh Al Saleh praised

the outcome of the 37th GCC Summit, which convened in Manama, and the GCC leaders’ success in further boosting the GCC march and achieving people’s aspirations for more progress and economic , security and defence integration.

PHOTO CREDIT: MOHAMMED THASLEEM

2 Thursday, December 8, 2016

Muhannad Mansour/DTNNmuhannad@dt.bh

Manama

Highlighting the repeated Iranian threats to the

region, British Prime Minister Theresa May underlined the importance of British-GCC cooperation to “push back Iran’s aggressiveness”.

“We must work together to push back Iran’s aggressive regional actions, whether in Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Syria or in the Gulf itself,” she said in her speech at the 37th GCC Summit held here yesterday. She also stressed

the importance of the Iran nuclear deal, but said the UK

remained “clear-eyed” about the country’s threat to the stability of the Middle East.

“The UK is fully committed to our strategic partnership with the Gulf and working with you to counter that threat. We secured a deal which has neutralised the possibility of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons for over a decade.”

“It has already seen Iran removing 13 thousand centrifuges together with associated infrastructure and eliminate its stock of 20 per cent enriched uranium,” May said while affirming

that the Iran deal was vitally important for regional security.

Speaking about the general security and stability in the Middle East, May also spoke about the situations in Syria, Yemen and the Israeli-Palestinian matter.

The Prime Minister also noted to the increasing cyber threats and the necessity of more coordination to curb them.

May’s visit to the Kingdom is the first to the region since she took the post of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom last July.

Hand-in-hand against Iran

Major outcomes of the SummitHMS Ocean to defend mutual interests

A regional land training hub in Oman to establish a permanent British army presence in the region

Saif Sareea 3, the largest UK-Omani exercise for 15 years will take place in Oman in 2018

World-leading cyber experts in UK to provide focused advice to Gulf States

New Joint Working Group established to boost trade and investment

UK will take part in Dubai’s Expo 2020, continuing the tradition which started in Britain

New agreement reached with Saudi Arabia to allow British businesses to obtain 5-year multiple entry visas for the first time

UK will host an event on Gulf national transformation and economic diversification plans in March next year

Discussions will continue to forge a new trade arrangement for the whole of the Gulf area

The Foreign Secretary will attend the next chapter of the Manama Dialogue later this weekTheresa May

3Thursday, December 8, 2016

Muhannad Mansour/DTNNmuhannad@dt.bh

The ‘Sakhir Declaration’ by the head of the states of

the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations yesterday urged Iran, in the strongest terms, to change its policies in the region and stop interfering in the internal affairs of GCC states.

The declaration which underlines the main resolutions and recommendations of the summit was adopted during the 37th GCC Summit held in Sakhir Palace. The two-day summit was presided over by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The declaration was read by GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani.

The Sakhir Declaration demands Iran to end its ongoing ‘occupation’ of the three Emirati islands in the Arabian Gulf. It also condemned Iran for politicising and exploiting the holy rite of Hajj.

Unification of defence and security was also highlighted

in the declaration, which stressed on the importance of achieving more integration and cooperation to develop the GCC defence and security systems, as well as enhancing the ability to deter any aggression or prejudice aimed at the sovereignty of GCC countries.

Common Gulf MarketThe GCC leaders also called for accelerating efforts to establish a common Gulf market and the promotion of the region as a global financial, economic

and investment hub. This was announced during a press conference by Foreign Affairs Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa and Dr. Al Zayani to explain the outcomes of the summit.

Shaikh Khalid reaffirmed that “there are no intentions to discredit Iran”, adding that “our stances are to stop the Iranian offences against the sovereignty of GCC states and undermining the principle of good neighbourliness”.

“If Iran wants to convince the world that it’s serious about its nuclear programme, it should show the same efforts to convince us that it represents an important and open neighbour that’s looking forward to build relations with us. Their abuses to us should be ceased,” Shaikh Khalid stressed.

‘We will respond’The minister condemned the Iranian policies towards the GCC countries and its declared intentions of exporting the revolution to neighbouring countries. “In case they have a revolution it should be confined to their country, as it does not concern the GCC countries”, he said, urging Iran to stop supporting terrorism.

“If these things happen, we will then respond positively to Iran”, he said, reiterating the firm resolve to continue defending security and sovereignty in case Iran interferes in the internal affairs of other countries, causing loss of lives and seeking to impose its hegemony, as witnessed in some Arab countries.

Sakhir DeclarationIran urged to change its policies in the region

Dr. Abdullatif Al Zayani

Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa

“There are no

intentions to discredit

Iran. Our stances

are to stop the Iranian offences”

PHOTO CREDIT: MOHAMMED THASLEEM

DT News NetworkManama

The Gulf Cooperation Council nations and the

United Kingdom yesterday jointly agreed to meet annually, in a similar high-level format,

to advance and build up on the UK-GCC strategic partnership announced.

The partnership aims to foster closer relations in all areas including politics, defence, security, trade as well

as in developing collective approaches to regional issues.

In another major decision, the summit also endorsed the GCC-UK Joint Action Plan as agreed by their Foreign Ministers and called for its full

implementation. Based on which, the GCC

leaders instructed their Ministers to review and extend the timeframe and scope of the current GCC-UK Joint Action Plan (JAP) (2015-2018) in light of the commitments made at this summit. This was revealed in the joint communiqué of the first Summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council - United Kingdom concluded in Bahrain yesterday.

The Summit, according to the communiqué, also reached a shared recognition that there is no military solution to the current armed civil conflicts in the region.

In this regard, the British Prime Minister, Theresa may, affirmed that the UK remains committed in working with the GCC member states to deter external aggression and interference.

Besides, the leaders stressed that they will be working towards achieving a sustainable political solution for the most pressing conflicts in the region (Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Libya, as well as the Middle East Peace Process).

On SyriaThe leaders reaffirmed

that Assad has lost all legitimacy and has no role in Syria’s future and that the international community needs to be united in calling for the Assad regime and its

backers, including Russia and Iran, to support a meaningful end to the violence.

On YemenProposing to adhere to the UN proposals, the summit urged parties in the Yemen to end unilateral actions which undermines peace efforts. The summit also urged unhindered support to the UN Humanitarian Response Plan for Yemen for 2017.

Decisions were also taken to prevent the resupply of weapons to Houti forces and to delivers humanitarian assistance to all parts of Yemen by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, other GCC states and UK aid organisations. The Summit also decided to work together in the reconstruction process of the Yemen.

On PalestineStrongly affirming the need to end Israel-Palestine conflict, the Summit urged both parties to demonstrate, through policies and action, genuine advance of the Two-State solution. Moving on the summit required the Libyan parties to accept the UN-brokered Libyan Political Agreement, and emphasised the need to fight all terrorist groups operating in the Lebanese territory. The summit also expressed its commitment to support cooperation between the IMF and Egypt.

4 Thursday, December 8, 2016

Future perfect

The UK-GCC Summit pave way for greater cooperation, security, stability and growth in the region

Takeaways from the

first GCC-UK summit

The GCC leaders and the UK Prime Minister were yesterday unanimous in their decisions to develop closer ties to advance stability and property in the region. Here are five highlights of the first summit of the Gulf Cooperation Council - United Kingdom held in Bahrain

Counter-Terrorism, Counter-Extremism

To address the threats by Al Qaeda, Daesh and their affiliates, the GCC member states and the UK will work together to cut off terrorist financing sources, enhance intelligence exchange and freeze assets of individuals and entities. Information on suspected foreign terrorist fighters (FTF) will be shared, besides enhancing traveller screening and biometrics collection capabilities.

Iran and Regional Stability

Strongly denouncing the destabilising activities of Iran, the summit urged Iran to respect territorial integrity and practice non interference in domestic affairs. The summit also called on Iran to resolve differences through peaceful means.

Regional securityMilitary cooperation will be increased through joint exercises and by enhanc-ing Britain’s presence in the Gulf via. Regional British Defence Staff to be based in Dubai. A National Security Dialogue will be established to coordinate security issues and region-al response to crises.

Trade and Investment

A GCC-UK PPP Conference will be held in London in the first quarter of 2017, focusing on GCC national transformation and eco-nomic diversification plans.

People To PeopleAgreed close collaboration and partnership in education, healthcare, culture, sport and the arts, including through the British Council, and working with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) on marine envi-ronmental issues.

5Thursday, December 8, 2016

DT News NetworkManama

Bahrain came ninth in a study on the time MENA

region residents spent on reading books.

Bahrain received a score of 58 per cent in the Arab Reading Index, produced through a partnership between Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRF) and the United Nations Development Programme / Regional Bureau for Arab States (UNDP/RBAS).

With a score of 82pc, UAE came top in the GCC, while ranking fourth overall.

Lebanon, Egypt and Morroco were the top countries in the index. Reading practices of more than 145,000 residents from 22 Arab countries were the basis of the study.

However the findings of the Arab Reading Index strongly contradict the results published in previous

indexes and refute claims of a “reading crisis” facing the Arab world, said researchers.

“In fact, current results showed a remarkable level of interest in reading among Arab people, as far as the extent of reading pillar was concerned,” according to the study. “The average number of reading hours per year varied between 7.78 hours in Somalia to 63.85 hours in Egypt, with an Arab average

of 35.24 hours per year. The average number of books read per year varied between 1.74 and 28.67, with an Arab average of 16.08 books per year.”

The number of books read per year in Bahrain was well above the average of Arab countries as well as GCC countries except Kuwait. The survey revealed that e-books were more read that printed ones. “The

comparison between the time spent reading printed versus electronic books and documents shows a higher average for the latter (19.45 hours per year) compared to the former (16.03 hours per year),” the report said.

“This is not surprising, given the widespread informat ion and communication technologies (ICT) and the emergence of reading alternatives that are more attractive than contents available in print.

According to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers, e-book sales will outnumber print book sales by 2018.

Also a recent survey indicates that the percentage of people who read e-books has reached 11 in the UAE, 9.1 in Saudi Arabia, 7.6 in Qatar, 6 in Bahrain, 6 in Lebanon, 5.6 in Morocco, 5.5 in Oman, 5 in Egypt, 4.5 in Algeria, 4.1 in Jordan, and 3 in Sudan. This is confirmed by a UNESCO study.

Bahrain ranks ninth in reading interestBan Ki-moon

By Invitation

(The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of this newspaper.)

Last week, I addressed the United Nations General Assembly to outline a new approach to tackle cholera in Haiti – a disease

that has afflicted nearly 800,000 people and claimed the lives of more than 9,000 Haitians over the last six years.

This tragedy has cast a shadow upon the relationship between the UN and the people of Haiti. It is a blemish on the reputation of UN peacekeeping and the Organization world-wide.

I began my speech to the General Assembly with a message to the Haitian people:

The United Nations deeply regrets the loss of life and suffering caused by the cholera outbreak in Haiti. We apologize. The UN simply did not do enough with regard to the cholera outbreak and its spread in Haiti. We are profoundly sorry for our role.

In 2014, I travelled to Haiti to meet affected families. It was one of the most difficult journeys I have made across a decade as Secretary-General. I heard stories of families who suffered, breadwinners who were lost, daughters and sons who are gone forever.

The people of Haiti have faced enormous hardships and obstacles over the years. Endemic poverty. Political instability. And, of course, the devastating earthquake of 2010. The cholera epidemic that soon followed added a deeper layer of tragedy and suffering.

There are no easy answers or perfect solutions to the challenges in Haiti. But that must not deter the members of the United Nations from fulfilling their collective and moral responsibility for action.

The UN’s new approach to tackling cholera is founded on two tracks, with costs amounting to approximately $400 million over two years.

Track One consists of an intensified effort to respond to, and reduce, the incidence of cholera in Haiti. That means improving people’s access to care and treatment when sick, while also strengthening water, sanitation and health systems. This is the best long-term defence against cholera and other water-borne diseases.

Work on Track One is well under way. For example, the number of cholera rapid response teams has increased from 32 in April to 88 today. When there are reports of new cases, these teams work to provide immediate care within 48 hours and prevent further transmission. Vaccinations against cholera are also being provided to people in vulnerable areas.

The mission to eliminate cholera in Haiti is realistic and doable. Cholera is a treatable and preventable disease. Thanks to concerted international and Haitian efforts, the overall incidence of the disease has been reduced by approximately 90 per cent since its peak in 2011. What is standing in the way is adequate resources and means of delivery.

Our new approach also includes a second track focusing specifically on those Haitians most directly affected by cholera, their families and communities. Track Two is a concrete expression of the regret of our Organization for the suffering so many Haitians have endured.

The approach would support communities and possibly individuals most severely affected by cholera and be based on priorities established through on-the-ground consultations.

This assistance could take many forms, including projects to alleviate the impacts of cholera and others that, while not directly related to cholera, reflect community needs such as education grants, micro-finance or other initiatives.

Whatever the eventual design of the package, a familiar obstacle once again stands in the way: adequate funding. Should resources not materialize, innovative financing solutions may need to be pursued.

My message to the General Assembly was clear: Without political will and financial support from the membership of the United Nations , we have only good intentions and words. Words are powerful – but they cannot replace action and material support.

So many people have suffered grievously. The United Nations and its members have the power to recognize and respond to that suffering. It is time for the international community to step up in solidarity, fulfil our moral duty and do the right thing for the Haitian people and the United Nations.

Righting a Wrong in Haiti

Send your comments to letters@dt.bh

This is in response to DT News

story “Intensify efforts to confront terrorism”, published on December 7, 2016. The call for united efforts by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to deal with this global crisis must be taken upon seriously by other leaders. The 37th GCC Summit has provided a base for strengthening the defence and to achieve peace and stability in GCC countries. What required now is collective effort and unflinching determination to move ahead and implement the decisions taken. Let us all work together for a stronger GCC. Rafeek Ahmad

INVITING EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (OPENING A COFFEE SHOP ON THE GROUND FLOOR OF BAIT AL TIJJAR)

The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) would like to invite Expressions of Interest from competent firms to open a Coffee Shop or a Mini Market on the Ground Floor of Bait Al Tijjar Building.

The proposed location has an approximate area of 70 sq.m and it is selected to serve BCCI members, tenants, business people, and visitors.

Interested firms are invited to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) accompanied by the following documents:

Deadline for receiving proposals is 8th January 2017. For site visits and more information please contact: Phone: 17- 38 00 79 Email: afnan@bcci.bh

• Copy of Commercial Registration• Copy of BCCI Membership (if available)• Company history and profile

• Date of Establishment• Company profile (No more than 200 words)• Provided services

Representation image

6 Thursday, December 8, 2016

Aleppo

Syria’s army seized key ground Tuesday in

its battle for east Aleppo, capturing more districts and penning rebels into less than a quarter of territory they held in mid-November.

The advance came as Moscow and Washington traded barbs over stalled efforts to end fighting in the city, where forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad have made significant

advances since last week.But US Secretary of State

John Kerry said he would try to get Syrian peace talks going again with Russia’s help.On the humanitarian front, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said it was a “disgrace” that the international community had been unable to alleviate the suffering in east Aleppo.

On Tuesday , government troops retook seven districts including the strategic Shaar

neighbourhood and were in control of more than three quarters of former rebel territory in east Aleppo, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

The monitor called Shaar “the most important neighbourhood in the heart of east Aleppo”, and said rebels were being reduced to fighting a “war of attrition”.

The rapid regime gains have left opposition fighters scrambling to defend the shrinking enclave they still control in Aleppo’s southeastern districts.

Despite mounting criticism of the offensive begun on November 15, world powers have struggled to find a way to halt the fighting. “We have been trying to find a way to get to the negotiating table ... but Assad has never shown any willingness,” Kerry said at a meeting of NATO foreign ministers.

Saudi condemns15 to death for spying for IranRiyadh

A Saudi court Tuesday sentenced 15 people

to death for spying for the kingdom’s rival Iran, local media and a source close to the case said, in a move likely to heighten regional tensions.

Tehran swiftly denied the espionage charges.

The espionage trial opened in February, a month after Riyadh cut diplomatic ties with Tehran over the burning of the Saudi embassy and a consulate by Iranian demonstrators protesting against the kingdom’s execution of Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr.

The most serious charge levelled against the accused was high treason.

Prosecutors also alleged the accused had divulged defence secrets, tried to commit sabotage and recruit moles in government departments, to send coded information, and supported “riots” in the Shiite-dominated eastern district of Qatif, Saudi media reported. 

The 15 were among a group of 32 people tried over the espionage allegations, Alriyadh newspaper said. 

Some of the defendants were accused of meeting Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The death sentences will be appealed, said the source close to the case, who cannot be identified due to its sensitivity.

Two of the group were acquitted while the rest received jail sentences of between six months and 25 years.

Cairo

The Egyptian and Chinese central banks on Tuesday

signed an 18-billion-yuan ($2.6bn) currency swap agreement which would ease pressure on Cairo’s foreign reserves, Egypt’s central bank said.

Under the deal, Egypt can use the yuan in transactions with China which can use the Egyptian pound in return transactions, Hany Farahat, senior economist at investment bank CI Capital, said

“It’s as if you have limited transactions between the two countries to the two local currencies, so there is no need to resort to any other foreign currency in bilateral dealings between Egypt and China,” Farahat said. The agreement is for an initial three years but can be extended by mutual consent, Egypt’s central bank said in a statement on its website.

Cairo has been struggling to boost its foreign currency reserves in the political and economic turmoil that has followed the January 2011 uprising that toppled former ruler Hosni Mubarak.

On November 11, the International Monetary Fund approved a $12bn loan for Egypt, just over a week after Cairo floated its currency as part of an economic reform package linked to the loan.

The Egyptian pound, which had been pegged at 8.83 to the dollar, has since been trading at banks for as high as 18 pounds per dollar.(AFP)

Egypt, China sign currency swap deal

More survivors found in Yemen shipwreckAden

More than 40 people were rescued off the

Yemeni island of Socotra on Wednesday after a cargo vessel carrying islanders home from the mainland sank in the Indian Ocean, authorities said.

Several others were still missing after a major search operation in the early hours, President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi said in a statement on the official sabanew.net website.

The official Saba news agency said that 42 people, including four women, had been rescued “and the search is continuing for 20 missing.”

The ship sank northwest of Socotra -- around 350 kilometres (220 miles) from Yemen’s south coast -- which has been hit by rare tropical cyclones in recent months.

Hadi called for “doubling efforts to broaden rescue operations to reduce the scope of the catastrophe that has struck the inhabitants of

Socotra.”Officials declined to say

if inclement weather was behind the disaster but Yemeni Fisheries Minister Fahd Kavieen earlier told reporters that the vessel had “an accident”.

The government said United Arab Emirates jets were assisting search and rescue operations alongside Yemeni coastguards as well as two ships from Australia and Austria.  Saba said at least two passengers had been rescued by these vessels.

Although long ruled from Yemen, Socotra lies closer to the coast of Africa than it does to the Arabian Peninsula.

It sits at the exit of a busy shipping lane from the Mediterranean through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea into the Indian Ocean.

For years it was prey to piracy from the lawless Somali coast and it is in one of the most heavily patrolled

maritime areas on Earth.Kavieen did not specify

whether warships of the international counter-piracy

operation were taking part in the search for survivors.

He said that the ship had been out of contact for several

days and its sinking was confirmed on Tuesday.

“Vessels have been combing the area since the early hours

and there is significant hope that the passengers have survived,” he said.

Yemen has been ravaged by conflict for the past two years, disrupting transport links to the Socotra archipelago.

The port of Mukalla, from which the sunken freighter set off, was controlled by Al-Qaeda for a full year until it was retaken by pro-government forces in April.

Air links to Socotra from elsewhere in Yemen have all but ground to a halt as Hadi’s beleaguered government battles rebels who still control the capital Sanaa. There are no regular passenger ferries either, forcing islanders to seek berths on the occasional cargo vessel.

Throughout the devastating conflict that has pitted forces supporting Hadi against rebels and their allies, Socotra has remained loyal to his Saudi-backed government and has been spared the violence gripping much of Yemen. (AFP)

Picture for representation only

Syria army makes newgains, pinsdown rebels

Call for ceasefire

Paris

The United States, Britain and France led a call yesterday from

six countries for an immediate ceasefire to allow aid into the besieged Syrian city of Aleppo.

A statement jointly issued with Canada, Germany and Italy also hit out at the regime in Damascus and its foreign backers, “especially Russia”, accusing them of blocking emergency help. “The urgent need now is for an immediate ceasefire to allow the United Nations to get humanitarian assistance to people in eastern Aleppo,” the statement said.

The countries said 200,000 civilians in Aleppo, including many children, were “cut off from food and medicine supplies”.

Syrian residents fleeing the violence

Damascus

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said a victory

for his army in the battered second city of Aleppo would be a “huge step” towards ending the country’s five-year civil war.

In an interview with Syrian daily Al-Watan to be published Thursday,

an early copy of which was seen by AFP, Assad said defeating beleaguered rebels in Aleppo would not put an end to Syria’s conflict.

“It’s true that Aleppo will be a win for us, but let’s be realistic -- it won’t mean the end of the war in Syria,” Assad said.

“But it will be a huge step towards this end,” he said. (AFP)

Win ‘huge step’

BUSINESSThursday, December 8, 2016 7

Manama

Batelco has been awarded as the Fastest Growing

Service Provider Partner of the Year at the Avaya Engage event, held on Tuesday in Dubai.

Batelco Bahrain CEO Muna Al Hashemi said that Batelco is delighted and honoured to gain this great award from Avaya.

Earlier this year Batelco was awarded Platinum

Certified Partner status by Avaya in recognition of the Company’s commitment, investment, experience and dedication to customer satisfaction.

More than 1300 customers and partners from across the combined regions interacted with Avaya global executives, solutions leaders and industry experts at the four-day forum hosted at the Atlantis the Palm hotel in Dubai.

Avaya International Channel Leader Fadi Moubarak said, “We are investing and developing our partner ecosystem to enable more companies to implement business communications solutions that help drive their digital transformation journeys.”

Batelco is a major ICT vendor in the region and is the largest partner of Avaya in Bahrain. Batelco Chief Marketing Officer Mike Stanford receives the award at the Avaya Engage Awards

Batelco bagstop award at Avaya EngageNamed ‘Fastest Growing Service Provider Partner of the Year’

Manama

The Bahrain-based Venture Capital Bank (VCBank)

alongside Qatar’s Al Sraiya Holding Group (Al Sraiya) and other strategic investors announced a joint partnership with Mado Yasar Dondurma (Mado), Turkey’s largest patisserie and ice-cream café chain franchisor, yesterday.

The deal was signed in Ankara on Tuesday in the presence of Turkish Deputy Prime Minister, Veysi Kaynak, and M.Rifat Hisarciklioglu, President of the Union of

Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey.

Commenting on the deal, Abdullatif Janahi, CEO of VCBank said, “This marks VCBank’s third major investment in Turkey, a market on which we will continue to focus due to its solid fundamentals and strong economic prospects.”

Janahi added: “For a number of years, Mado has delivered strong double-digit growth and we look forward to strengthen Mado’s presence in the GCC region, followed by other

global markets.”Rashid N. Al Kaabi, Vice

Chairman of Al Sraiya, added, “Our partnership with Mado provides us with exposure to Turkey’s growing economy and in particular its F&B sector, where we see great promise and room for upside potential internationally.”

Mehmet Kanbur, Chairman of Mado Group, added, “Together with VCBank, we especially look forward to expanding our presence in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia.”

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister, Veysi Kaynak, President of the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey, M.Rifat Hisarciklioglu and Bahrain-based Venture Capital Bank (VCBank) CEO Abdullatif Janahi alongside Qatar’s Al Sraiya Holding Group, Vice Chairman Rashid N. Al Kaabi

VCBank, Al Sraiya, Turkey’s Mado in joint partnership

BUSINESS Thursday, December 8, 20168

High-jumping robot could aid in earthquakes, building collapsesAn agile jumping robot that was inspired by some of the animal world’s best leapers could one day help in rescue efforts after

earthquakes or building collapses

Named SaltoKnown as Salto, the  10-inch (26-centim-eter) tall robot can jump higher than a bullfrog and almost as high as a galago, or bush baby, a small primate found in Africa.The robot can jump one yard (one meter) in less than one second. That’s better than a human but not the high-est of any robot -- other machines have been made that can jump more than three meters in a single leap.

One metre in 0.58 seconds Salto does hold the crown in vertical-jumping agility, which researchers define as the ratio of the maximum jump height to the time it takes to complete one jump.According to a report, “Salto can jump to a height of one meter in 0.58 seconds and be immedi-ately ready to jump again.”This means Salto can achieve a vertical-jumping agility of 1.75 meters per second, the highest such ratio of any robot to date.It also attains 78 percent of a galago’s vertical-jumping agility

One leggedSalto, which stands for “saltatorial locomotion on ter-

rain obstacles,” weighs just 3.5 ounces (100 grams).The one-legged robot can jump from the floor,

flip forward and then kick off a wall, reaching even greater heights.Researchers hope it will aid rescuers by offer-ing a robot that can easily navigate rubble and tough terrain.

Battery a problemThe robot would not be

powerful enough to pull a person out of a collapsed building, but might be equipped with sensors that could tip off rescuers to the loca-tion of a trapped person.Battery life is also a problem. The battery takes up 17 percent of the robot’s mass, and allows it to func-tion for only a couple of minutes at a time.The study was funded by the US Army Research Laboratory and the National Science Foundation. (AFP)

Manama

With the holidays just around the corner,

Joyalukkas makes the gift-giving process simpler with Festival of Joy, a huge offering of diamond & polki jewellery, as well as irresistible offers and discounts across gold, precious stone jewellery and more.

“Jewellery is a universal gift that makes the receiver feel very special, whatever the occasion,” says Joy Alukkas, Chairman & MD, Joyalukkas Group.

“The festive season can be overwhelming for our loyal patrons because of the many social obligations expected to come up. We try to ease their decision-making in any way we can and offer a wide selection of exquisite jewellery along with offers that provide them the best value for the festive season. We hope Festival of Joy makes the holiday season even happier for all our customers,” he added.

Festival of Joy will also feature a Diamond & Polki festival, offering the largest collection of diamond & polki jewellery. The almost one month celebration is the best time to buy the most wanted jewellery to keep or gift at special discounts and offers.

During Festival of Joy, customers receive 10 per cent cash back in the form of gift vouchers on purchase of diamond and polki jewellery. They also get zero deduction on exchange of old 22K gold for new 22K gold, precious stone, diamond and polki jewellery. And to add to their convenience, major credit cards are also offering up to 6 months instalment plans.

‘Joyalukkas Festival of Joy’ promotion

New Delhi

Prominent NRI businessman Adeeb Ahamed, has been

appointed as the Director Board Member of National Waqf Development Corporation (NAWADCO), a Central Public Sector Enterprise under Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India.

Adeed Ahamed, an Indian entrepreneur who is based in the UAE is a multifaceted professional, philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer of LuLu Financial Group, which manages LuLu International Exchange and Managing Director of Twenty14 Holdings (hospitality) and Managing Director of Tablez Retail Pvt. Ltd.

Twenty14 Holdings, the hospitality investment firm, also headed by him owns prestigious properties like the Great Scotland Yard in London, Steigenberger Business Bay Hotel in Dubai and the Sheraton Oman Hotel in Muscat.

The establishment of NAWADCO is a follow up of Sachchar Committee recommendation. India has the largest number of Waqf properties in the world which is estimated of more than 490,000 registered Auqaf and the current annual income from these properties is about Rs.163 crores only (approx. US$23.55 million).

UAE based NRI NAWADCOBoard member

Manama

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), the Bahrain-

based international aluminium smelter, has been performing reasonably well in light of the market conditions, according to a statement issued by the Chairman of Alba’s Board of Directors, Shaikh Daij Bin Salman Bin Daij Al Khalifa.

The statement was made following the fourth quarterly meeting for the year 2016, which was held yesterday at Alba.

The board approved and reviewed the reports of the Board Executive Committee, Board Audit Committee and the Nomination and Remuneration Committee

during the meeting. At this meeting, the board

reviewed and approved the 2017 Annual Operating Plan. In addition, the board reviewed the 2016 Corporate Governance Report and Q3 2016 Financial Statements. The management gave an update on Safety, the progress of Line 6 Expansion Project, Project Titan – Phase II and the Financial Performance for which Alba is expecting a strong finish for 2016.

The Chairman of Alba’s Board of Directors, Shaikh Daij Bin Salman Bin Daij Al Khalifa said: “We are pleased with the continued progress on the Line 6 Expansion Project – Alba successfully

closed US$1.5 billion syndicated loan tranche and we are optimistic to secure an additional US$ 1bn in Export Credit Agency (ECA) backed financing within the first quarter of 2017.”

In addition, the board reviewed the results of the investigation into the allegations against the Alba Labour Union (ALU). After a thorough review of the evidence, the management has been instructed to implement the necessary corrective actions immediately. Besides, Alba will be reviewing some of the findings with the relevant Bahrain authorities where applicable.

The board, also, approved the appointment of Amin

Sultan as Chief Operations Officer (COO) with immediate effect.

The Alba Board of Directors comprises six directors appointed by Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, which in addition to the Chairman of the Board, Shaikh Daij Bin Salman Bin Daij Al Khalifa include Yousif Abdulla Taqi, Osama Mohammed Al Arrayedh, Fahad Nasser Al-Hazzani, Dr. Mohamed Kameshki and Suha Karzoon. The two directors appointed by Sabic Industrial Investments Co (SIIC) are Fahad S. Al Sheaibi and Khalid Al Garni and two independent Directors, Abdul Aziz Al Humaid and Mutlaq Al-Morished.

Alba expecting a strong finishThe Alba Board of Directors held their third quarterly meeting for 2016 yesterday at Alba

Added Ahamed

BUSINESSThursday, December 8, 2016 9

Iran signed a preliminary agreement with Shell to work towards developing major oil and gas fields as it seeks to

boost its output. The deals open the way for Shell to carry out assessments at the South Azadegan and Yadavaran oil fields, both in southwestern Iran, as well as an offshore gas field near Kish Island in the Gulf. Hans Nijkamp, a vice-president at Shell, said the deal “opens a new chapter”.

The Kremlin yesterday said that Russia had finalised a deal to privatise 19.5 per cent of state-owned oil giant Rosneft.

Rosneft chief Igor Sechin informed President Vladimir Putin “about the completion of a privatisation deal of 19.5pc of shares of the largest Russian oil company,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. He added that its investors were the Glencore Consortium and Qatar’s sovereign fund and it would contribute 10.5 billion euros to the budget.

Arianna Huffington

Iran signs oil, gas deals with Shell Russia privatises 19.5 percent of Rosneft

president and editor in chief The Huffington Post Media Group

Fearlessness is like a muscle. I know from my own life that the more I exercise it the more natural it becomes to not let my fears run me”

Want to be a laudable leader? Study these characteristics and the wise words of leaders who strive to embody them:

“In any system with finite resources and infinite expansion of popula-tion—like your business, or like all of humanity—innovation is essential for not only success  but also survival. The innovators are our leaders. You cannot separate the two. Whether it is by thought, tech- nology or organization, innovation is our only hope to solve our challenges”

—Aubrey Marcus, founder, Onnit(Entrepreneur)

for becoming a great leader

“It’s been said that leadership is making important but unpopular decisions. That’s certainly a partial truth, but I think it underscores the importance of focus. To be a good leader, you cannot major in minor things, and you must be less distracted than your competition. To get the few critical things done, you must develop incred-ible selective ignorance. Otherwise, the trivial will drown you”

—Tim Ferriss, bestsell-ing author, host of The

Tim Ferriss Show

Focus“A leader instils confidence and ‘followership’ by hav-ing a clear vision, show-ing empathy and being a strong coach. As a female leader, to be recognized I feel I have to show up with swagger and assertiveness, yet always try to maintain my Southern upbringing, which under-scores kindness and generosity. The two work well together in gaining respect”

—Barri Rafferty, CEO, Ketchum North America

Confidence

“Our employees are a direct reflection of the values we embody as leaders. If we’re playing from a reactive and obsolete playbook of needing to be right instead of doing what’s right, then we limit the full potential of our business and lose quality talent. If you focus on becoming authentic in all your interactions, that will rub off on your business and your culture, and the rest takes care of itself”

—Gunnar Lovelace, co-CEO and cofounder, Thrive Market

Integrity

“You must love what you do. In order to be truly success- ful at something, you must obsess over it and let it consume you. No matter how successful your business might become, you are never satisfied and constantly push to do something bigger, better and greater. You lead by example not because you feel like it’s what you should do, but because it is your way of life”

—Joe Perez, cofounder, Tastemade

Passion

Innovation

Manama

The Initial Public Offering (IPO) of the

BD19,800,000 Eskan Bank Realty Income Trust (REIT) achieved a subscription level of 95.5 per cent.

Total subscriptions from eligible applicants amounting to BD13.8 million (US$36.6m), representing 137,863,559 units at BD0.100 per unit, Eskan Bank and Securities & Investment Company (SICO) announced in a statement.

The IPO offered 144,394,499 units of the total 198,000,000 units in issuance at an offer price of BD0.100 units, totalling BD14.4m (US$38.2m).

The IPO opened on 22 November and closed on 6 December 2016. SICO is the mandated lead manager for the IPO as well as the REIT’s sub-investment manager and market maker.

Commenting on the result, Dr. Khalid Abdulla, the

General Manager of Eskan Bank, stated: “Subscriptions in the REIT units exceeded our expectations considering the challenging regional economic conditions.”

“We now look forward to the listing of the REIT’s units on the Bahrain Bourse on 2 January 2017 after which all unit holders can start trading through their appointed broker,” he added.

Najla M. Al Shirawi, Chief Executive Officer of SICO, said: “It is particularly pleasing

that the unique structuring of the offering, with benefits comprising attractive returns, diversity, liquidity and lower risk, proved to be so popular with retail investors fulfilling the objective of Eskan bank to benefit individual investors.”

The Trust announced that units will be allotted in consultation with the lead manager. Allotment notices will be mailed to applicants by 22 December 2016 to the address specified on the application form.

Eskan Bank REIT exceedsexpectations

Achieves more than 95pc subscription rate

Najla Al ShirawiDr Khalid Abdulla

New Delhi

India’s central bank left interest rates unchanged

at 6.25 per cent yesterday, defying expectations of a cut following the government’s shock move to withdraw high-denomination banknotes from circulation. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said the benchmark repo rate -- the level at which it lends to commercial banks -- would stay steady after

it was cut to 6.25pc in October.Lower interest rates boost

consumer spending, which is likely to see a sharp downturn in the wake of the government’s so called demonetisation scheme but it can also cause an uptick in inflation.

“The MPC (monetary policy committee) was of the view that given the reduction of policy rate of 25 basis points in October... a further reduction in

the policy rate is not warranted at this juncture,” RBI governor Urjt Patel told reporters.

The central bank also lowered its outlook for gross value added growth from 7.6pc to 7.1pc. GVA is different from gross domestic product, the measure typically used to show a country’s economic growth. However, it is indicative of how the GDP could move, although not by the same amount.

India holds interest rates steady

BUSINESS10 Thursday, December 8, 2016

COUNTRY/CURRENCIES SELLBUY

Rates are for indication purpose only. For firm rates or for currencies not listed above please call Bahrain Financing Company. Telephone: 17228888, Website: www.bfc.com.bh

COUNTRY 1 US DLR 1 UK STG 1 SFR 100 YEN

BAHRAIN 0.3770 0.4812 0.3745 0.3323

KUWAIT 0.2855 32.3928 0.2836 0.2516

OMAN 0.3849 0.3875 0.3823 0.3392

QATAR 3.6420 3.6664 3.6178 3.2099

UAE 3.6730 3.6976 3.6486 3.2373

SAUDI 3.7500 3.7751 3.7250 3.3051

AUSTRALIA 0.2877 0.2853BANGLADESH 0.00487 0.00479CANADA 0.2900 0.2868DENMARK 0.0574 EGYPT 0.0361 0.0434EURO 0.4108 0.4087HONGKONG 0.04983 0.04943INDIA 0.00630 0.00569INDONESIA 0.00003016 0.00002895IRAN TUMAN 0.00010959 IRAQI DINAR 0.000294 JAPAN 0.003460 0.003390JORDAN 0.5365 0.5351KOREA 0.00037314 KUWAIT 1.2580 1.249MALAYSIA 0.087300 0.0871NEW ZEALAND 0.2732 0.2718NORWAY 0.0470 NEPAL 0.00368 0.00348OMAN 0.97962 0.98262PAKISTAN 0.00364 0.00360PHILIPPINES 0.00789 0.00760QATAR 0.10381 0.10376SAUDI ARABIA 0.10061 0.27350SINGAPORE 0.2701 0.2681SOUTH AFRICA 0.02930 0.02920SRI LANKA 0.00273 0.00255SWEDISH 0.0445 SWITZERLAND 0.3805 0.3780SYRIA 0.001740 0.0017TAIWAN 0.012300 THAILAND 0.010800 0.101790TURKEY 0.1188 UNITED KINGDOM 0.4831 0.4801UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 0.102800 0.102810UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 0.37800 0.37805YUAN 0.058500 0.0585

Manama

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the

Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Republic of Kazakhstan.

The MoU is to develop and strengthen cooperation and training and development programmes between the BIBF and the AIFC by interchanging information and expertise in relation to teaching, research and thought leadership in Islamic Finance.

The memorandum was signed on behalf of the BIBF by the Deputy Director, Dr Ahmed Abdul Hameed Al Shaikh, and Governor of the AIFC Dr Kairat Kelimbetov.

Commenting on the deal, the BIBF, in a statement, said it seeks to continuously upgrade its training capabilities by attaining partnerships with organisations such as the AIFC, a financial hub for Central Asia, the Caucasus, EAEU, the Middle East, West China, Mongolia and Europe.

AIFC announced the deal will sharpen the AIFC’s goal towards further development and success of the financial sector.

BIBF signs MoUwith KazakhstanThrough Astana International Financial Centre

The memorandum was signed on behalf of the BIBF by the Deputy Director, Dr Ahmed AbdulHameed Al Shaikh, and Governor of the AIFC Dr Kairat Kelimbetov

Manama

Bin Faqeeh, a Bahrain-based privately owned real

estate investment company, is showcasing of a number of its real estate projects at Panorama shopping mall, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The portfolio of projects being showcased includes

“Waterbay”, located at the heart of Bahrain Bay. It will feature three distinct 10-storey residences with around 600 luxury apartments. The first of the three residences has an expected date of completion by end 2018.

Other projects showcased include “Hidd Heights” which

consists of 13-storey building located in Hidd adjacent to Khalifa park, offering fully furnished studios, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments, and ‘Plus’ which is a 13-floor residential tower located in Busaiteen.

The list of projects also includes “The Treasure”

located in Dilmunia Island; “360°” at the shores of Durrat Marina, and “The Grand” a residential tower located in Seef District.

The move, according to Bin Faqeeh, is aimed at targeting a large segment of potential buyers and investors from around GCC.

Bin Faqeehshowcases projects in Panorama Malls

Officials during a photocall after signing the deal

BUSINESS10 Thursday, December 8, 2016

COUNTRY/CURRENCIES SELLBUY

Rates are for indication purpose only. For firm rates or for currencies not listed above please call Bahrain Financing Company. Telephone: 17228888, Website: www.bfc.com.bh

COUNTRY 1 US DLR 1 UK STG 1 SFR 100 YEN

BAHRAIN 0.3770 0.4812 0.3745 0.3323

KUWAIT 0.2855 32.3928 0.2836 0.2516

OMAN 0.3849 0.3875 0.3823 0.3392

QATAR 3.6420 3.6664 3.6178 3.2099

UAE 3.6730 3.6976 3.6486 3.2373

SAUDI 3.7500 3.7751 3.7250 3.3051

AUSTRALIA 0.2877 0.2853BANGLADESH 0.00487 0.00479CANADA 0.2900 0.2868DENMARK 0.0574 EGYPT 0.0361 0.0434EURO 0.4108 0.4087HONGKONG 0.04983 0.04943INDIA 0.00630 0.00569INDONESIA 0.00003016 0.00002895IRAN TUMAN 0.00010959 IRAQI DINAR 0.000294 JAPAN 0.003460 0.003390JORDAN 0.5365 0.5351KOREA 0.00037314 KUWAIT 1.2580 1.249MALAYSIA 0.087300 0.0871NEW ZEALAND 0.2732 0.2718NORWAY 0.0470 NEPAL 0.00368 0.00348OMAN 0.97962 0.98262PAKISTAN 0.00364 0.00360PHILIPPINES 0.00789 0.00760QATAR 0.10381 0.10376SAUDI ARABIA 0.10061 0.27350SINGAPORE 0.2701 0.2681SOUTH AFRICA 0.02930 0.02920SRI LANKA 0.00273 0.00255SWEDISH 0.0445 SWITZERLAND 0.3805 0.3780SYRIA 0.001740 0.0017TAIWAN 0.012300 THAILAND 0.010800 0.101790TURKEY 0.1188 UNITED KINGDOM 0.4831 0.4801UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 0.102800 0.102810UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 0.37800 0.37805YUAN 0.058500 0.0585

Manama

The Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the

Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Republic of Kazakhstan.

The MoU is to develop and strengthen cooperation and training and development programmes between the BIBF and the AIFC by interchanging information and expertise in relation to teaching, research and thought leadership in Islamic Finance.

The memorandum was signed on behalf of the BIBF by the Deputy Director, Dr Ahmed Abdul Hameed Al Shaikh, and Governor of the AIFC Dr Kairat Kelimbetov.

Commenting on the deal, the BIBF, in a statement, said it seeks to continuously upgrade its training capabilities by attaining partnerships with organisations such as the AIFC, a financial hub for Central Asia, the Caucasus, EAEU, the Middle East, West China, Mongolia and Europe.

AIFC announced the deal will sharpen the AIFC’s goal towards further development and success of the financial sector.

BIBF signs MoUwith KazakhstanThrough Astana International Financial Centre

The memorandum was signed on behalf of the BIBF by the Deputy Director, Dr Ahmed AbdulHameed Al Shaikh, and Governor of the AIFC Dr Kairat Kelimbetov

Manama

Bin Faqeeh, a Bahrain-based privately owned real

estate investment company, is showcasing of a number of its real estate projects at Panorama shopping mall, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The portfolio of projects being showcased includes

“Waterbay”, located at the heart of Bahrain Bay. It will feature three distinct 10-storey residences with around 600 luxury apartments. The first of the three residences has an expected date of completion by end 2018.

Other projects showcased include “Hidd Heights” which

consists of 13-storey building located in Hidd adjacent to Khalifa park, offering fully furnished studios, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments, and ‘Plus’ which is a 13-floor residential tower located in Busaiteen.

The list of projects also includes “The Treasure”

located in Dilmunia Island; “360°” at the shores of Durrat Marina, and “The Grand” a residential tower located in Seef District.

The move, according to Bin Faqeeh, is aimed at targeting a large segment of potential buyers and investors from around GCC.

Bin Faqeehshowcases projects in Panorama Malls

Officials during a photocall after signing the deal

Thursday, December 8, 2016 11

Perfect for occasions like birth-days and anniversaries, this

mousse recipe is so tempting and irresistible that it would be hard for your guests to believe that you made it yourself.

Ingredients:8 2 cup washed & dried, mashed blueberry8 2 cup sour cream

8 6 chopped almonds8 2 cup heavy cream8 1 teaspoon chopped pistachios8 1 cup powdered sugar8 500 gm cream cheese8 2 teaspoon powdered salt8 10 blueberry

Step 1Heat a non-stick pan over medium flame and add washed blueberries,

salt and sugar in it.Step 2Cook for a while and mash the blueberries well. Simmer over low flame for about 10 to 20 minutes until it has a jam-like consistency.Step 3When done, remove from the flame and transfer to a blender. Allow it to cool completely.Step 4

Add the sour cream, cream cheese and puree them until smooth. Beat the thick cream until soft peaks form and add the blueberry mixture.Step 5Mix all the ingredients well until fully blended. Transfer to individual serving glasses and keep it in the fridge for about 15 to 20 minutes.Step 6Garnish with nuts and blueberries.(TOI)

Blueberry Mousse

1234567890a

Discover how to reinvigorate your snack time with a

handful of ingredients and some creative thinking. From

the new way to make bliss balls to a radical new twist on pizza, you’ll wonder why you

never tried these tricks sooner

Get playful with pizza

Making your own pizza may not seem like a quick or healthy snack solution - until you see these

super slices. Using watermelon as a base (yes, really!), you can pretty much top this fruity pizza with anything you have in the fridge. The combo of prosciutto, pistachio and watermelon works really well as a light summer bite.

Transform your bliss balls

The bliss ball has been one of the hottest food trends of the past years, driven by our desire to eat

healthier but still enjoy snack times. Traditionally, bliss balls are made with dried fruit, such as dates, blitzed with almond and cacao. Banana snack balls combine fresh banana with cheese and coconut, for a fresh, creamy twist.

Make your own dried fruit

If you’ve got a pineapple that needs eating but you can’t manage it all your-self, this is the answer. A great way to

make the fruit last longer, this super-simple oven-dried snack is great on its own or as a topping for sandwiches and salads. It’ll go wonderfully on top of a simple toasted bagel with a generous spreading of cream.(Taste)

Freeze your favourite treat

How do you make the good old Aussie laming-

ton an even better snack on a hot summer’s day? Create a frozen ver-sion. Part ice block, part lamington, these five-ingredient treats are perfect to keep in the freezer for an impromp-tu party, or simply for when you want to have a quiet snack moment to yourself.

Go miniature with your cob loaf

Spinach cob loaf dip is the perfect pre-barbie snack for backyard entertainers across the nation. It’s creamy, delicious, and perfect

for sharing — unless you end up with a cob loaf lingerer who stays by the dip so others don’t get a look-in. Ensure everyone gets to try it by creating individual cob loaf dips for each of your guests.

Thursday, December 8, 201612

Bharathi Association in association with The Indian Club held a condolence meeting for deceased Chief Minister of Tamilnadu, Jayalalitha at the Indian Club premises. The Second secretary of the Indian Embassy Anand Prakash paid his condolences. Around 400 people at-tended the meeting

The pearl, gold, and jewellery sector committee of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and In-dustry (BCCI), headed by board member Deema Al Haddad, recently convened in Bait Al Tijjar. The meeting centered on the committee’s forthcoming participation in foreign exhibitions and conducting training programmes

Italian Ambassador to Domenico Bellato visited the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), where Company President Dr. Abdulrah-man Jawahery received along with members of the Executive Management, the Deputy Chairman of the Labour Union and officialsBritish Prime Minister Theresa May yesterday left the Kingdom after attending the GCC-UK summit

British Prime Minister, MP Theresa May was presented with a book documenting the history of the 200-year-long Bahraini-UK relations. Honorary President of the Al-Zayani Investments Group, Khalid Rashid Al Zayani presented the book

Wife of His Majesty the King and Supreme Council for Women Chairwoman HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibra-him Al Khalifa voiced the Kingdom’s pride in the new generation of distinguished Bahraini women. Princess Sabeeka received yesterday members of the educational and administrative staff, students and graduates from the Royal University for Women (RUW)

Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday paid a visit to the Emir of Kuwait Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmed Al Jaber Al Sabah and discussed the outstanding brotherly relations. Premier lauded the role played by Shaikh Sabah to consoli-date complementarity among GCC and Arab countries

Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday paid a visit to the Deputy Prime Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud al Said and discussed ways to bolster cooperation between the two countries

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa chaired the second closed work session of the GCC leaders, in presence of British Prime Minister MP, Theresa May. The session reviewed solid historic relations binding the GCC member states and the UK

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received British Prime Minister Theresa May at the Al Sakhir Palace yesterday. HM King affirmed the solid long-standing relations between the friendly countries and bestowed the Ahmed Al-Fateh Medal in recogni-tion of her efforts

Thursday, December 8, 2016 13

ASRY, the leading ship and rig repair yard in the Arabian Gulf organised a luncheon at Lumee Restaurant, in Saar to celebrate Bahraini Women’s Day. All female employees of the company were appreciated for the role they play in the company’s future success

Bharathi Association in association with The Indian Club held a condolence meeting for deceased Chief Minister of Tamilnadu, Jayalalitha at the Indian Club premises. The Second secretary of the Indian Embassy Anand Prakash paid his condolences. Around 400 people at-tended the meeting

Afnan Al Zayani, board member of the Bahrain Chamber of Com-merce and Industry (BCCI) and head of the Business Women Com-mittee was honoured by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in recognition of her long strides in support-ing and empowering women and the youth through the Bahrain Model (EDIP)

Italian Ambassador to Domenico Bellato visited the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC), where Company President Dr. Abdulrah-man Jawahery received along with members of the Executive Management, the Deputy Chairman of the Labour Union and officials

GCC leaders left the Kingdom yesterday after participating in the 37th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit

Wife of His Majesty the King and Supreme Council for Women Chairwoman HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibra-him Al Khalifa voiced the Kingdom’s pride in the new generation of distinguished Bahraini women. Princess Sabeeka received yesterday members of the educational and administrative staff, students and graduates from the Royal University for Women (RUW)

Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday paid a visit to the Qatar Emir Shaikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and reviewed ways to bolster joint cooperation in various fields

Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa yesterday paid a visit to the Deputy Prime Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, Sayyid Fahd bin Mahmoud al Said and discussed ways to bolster cooperation between the two countries

Todd Barry @toddbarry

Just heard a guy say “I drink a lot of coffee.”

Here’s the twist: I’m in a coffee shop

14 Thursday, December 8, 2016

Los Angeles

Veteran actress Whoopi Goldberg will reportedly

produce and star in a Harlem racial drama.

Goldberg is teaming up with cable network Bravo to develop an untitled project, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

The drama centres around a Harlem crime boss who is reunited with her oldest son, whom she thought was dead, after he returns to New York City to run for mayor.

Goldberg is set to executive produce the project alongside her One Ho Productions president Tom Leonardis.

She is also eyeing the role of the Harlem crime boss in the drama, though she is not currently attached to it yet.

Amitabh Klemm will pen the script and executive produce the project. (IANS)

Los Angeles

Actress Angelina Jolie is looking for a house here as she wants her six children to remain close to

their father Brad Pitt.Jolie has been granted physical custody of her

kids after the estranged couple reached a temporary custody agreement on December 2, reports usmagazine.com.

“She’s currently looking into buying a new house in L.A. so the kids can remain close to their father,”

a source said.The couple’s children -- Maddox, 15, Pax,

13, Zahara, 11, Shiloh, 10, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 8 -- have been staying with Jolie in a

rented California home since the divorce.Earlier, it was reported that Jolie wanted to move

to London with her kids and “score a top position in the United Nations.” (IANS)

New York

Actress Jennifer Aniston looked chic in a 3554

pounds worth jumpsuit at the recent premiere of “Office Christmas Party.”

The actress looked stunning in a black jumpsuit

from designer Brandon Maxwell. It featured

ruched one

shoulder detail and wide legs. She teamed the 3554 pounds worth design with burgundy heels and a black clutch bag, reports hellomagazine.com.

With her blonde hair worn down and straight, she completed the look with leaf earrings and silver bracelets. She also had a tailored black coat on hand to drape over her shoulders as she left the event at New York’s Landmark

Sunshine Cinema. (IANS)

Todd Barry @toddbarry

Just heard a guy say “I drink a lot of coffee.”

Here’s the twist: I’m in a coffee shop

14 Thursday, December 8, 2016

Los Angeles

Veteran actress Whoopi Goldberg will reportedly

produce and star in a Harlem racial drama.

Goldberg is teaming up with cable network Bravo to develop an untitled project, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

The drama centres around a Harlem crime boss who is reunited with her oldest son, whom she thought was dead, after he returns to New York City to run for mayor.

Goldberg is set to executive produce the project alongside her One Ho Productions president Tom Leonardis.

She is also eyeing the role of the Harlem crime boss in the drama, though she is not currently attached to it yet.

Amitabh Klemm will pen the script and executive produce the project. (IANS)

Los Angeles

Actress Angelina Jolie is looking for a house here as she wants her six children to remain close to

their father Brad Pitt.Jolie has been granted physical custody of her

kids after the estranged couple reached a temporary custody agreement on December 2, reports usmagazine.com.

“She’s currently looking into buying a new house in L.A. so the kids can remain close to their father,”

a source said.The couple’s children -- Maddox, 15, Pax,

13, Zahara, 11, Shiloh, 10, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 8 -- have been staying with Jolie in a

rented California home since the divorce.Earlier, it was reported that Jolie wanted to move

to London with her kids and “score a top position in the United Nations.” (IANS)

New York

Actress Jennifer Aniston looked chic in a 3554

pounds worth jumpsuit at the recent premiere of “Office Christmas Party.”

The actress looked stunning in a black jumpsuit

from designer Brandon Maxwell. It featured

ruched one

shoulder detail and wide legs. She teamed the 3554 pounds worth design with burgundy heels and a black clutch bag, reports hellomagazine.com.

With her blonde hair worn down and straight, she completed the look with leaf earrings and silver bracelets. She also had a tailored black coat on hand to drape over her shoulders as she left the event at New York’s Landmark

Sunshine Cinema. (IANS)

Thursday, December 8, 2016 15

Tom Hiddleston had a run-in with ex girlfriend Taylor Swift, while he was jogging on the streets of London.

The British star was clicked passing by a graffiti of Swift, hinting at their sudden break up.

The art with a message directed at the ‘Thor’ star showed the singer talking on the phone with a speech bubble that read, “Oh Tom...I love you too...But...”.

The artwork, created by artist Fussy Human, seemingly depicted the moment Swift, 26, broke up with Hiddleston, 35, following their whirlwind romance.

The pair’s romance was confirmed in June of this year after they were photographed canoodling in Rhode Island. They ended up calling it quits in September. (TOI)

Los Angeles

Actress Scarlett Johansson is pleased to see more females

working in Hollywood.The “Captain America: Civil

War” star is glad to see more women working on film sets as she feels it was basically a bunch of dudes running movies ten years ago, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

“We see more female directors, more women in various departments on set. If you looked around a film set even 10 years ago, it was basically a bunch of dudes; maybe in the wardrobe department or in the hair and makeup department there would be women,” Johansson said.

“Now you see more female camera assistants, cinematographers, grips. It’s nice to have a diverse group of people so that it doesn’t become so one-note - to have a female energy on set, to have different types of people and different vibes, and a more balanced creative environment,” she added.

Meanwhile, Johansson earlier said that she found it “disappointing” to be named the highest grossing actress of all time. (IANS)

Los Angeles

Kirk Douglas, whose illustrious career has taken in some of cinema’s landmark

roles, turns 100 on Friday -- attributing his remarkable longevity to his “wonderful marriage” of more than six decades.

The iconic actor revealed in a special essay to mark the milestone that his second wife Anne, 97, had been his inspiration in rebounding from adversity over the years.

“I was lucky enough to find my soulmate 63 years ago, and I believe our wonderful marriage and our nightly ‘golden hour’ chats have helped me survive all things,” he writes in celebrity magazine Closer Weekly.

The three-time Oscar nominee will celebrate with 200 friends and family at a party in California. (AFP)

Jimmy Kimmel will host the 89thOscars show, to be broadcast live by ABC on Feburary 26, 2017, sources said.It will be the first time for Kimmel to hostthe Oscars as he has

been the face of ABC’s late night telecast since his popular talk show ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ launched in 2003.

Disney/ABC Television Group chief Ben Sherwood had publicly urged the Academy to consider handing the event to Kimmel.

In August, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences struck a new deal with ABC, which pays about $75 million a year to broadcast the Oscars, to extend the agreement until 2028. As part of the pact, ABC got more creative input on the show, including the choice of producers and host, although the Academy retained final say on the decisions. Kimmel has emceed the Emmys twice, in 2012 and this past September. (TOI)

16 Thursday, December 8, 2016COOL ZONE

S OU UKD

CROSSWORDYESTERDAY’S SOLUTION

Your star today

Across Down

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION

How to play: Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

(Mar 21st - Apr 20th)

(Apr 21st - May 21st)

(May 22nd - Jun 21st)

(June 22nd - July 23rd)

(July 24th - Aug 23rd)

(Aug 24th - Sep 23rd)

(Sep 24th - Oct 23rd)

(Oct 24th - Nov 22nd)

(Nov 23rd - Dec 21st)

(Dec 22nd- Jan 20th)

(Jan 21st - Feb 19th)

(Feb 20th - Mar 20th)

You will benefit quite a bit from the unexpected communication that is coming your way. There is no way you can prepare for what others are going to say to you, so don’t even try. You may feel as if you are entering a debate and you have your arguments all planned out.

Be careful of getting into arguments with others, because you do not stand a chance of winning. More than likely, no one is going to be the winner today, because everyone is going to be so convinced that their opinion is the right one. Your best plan of attack is to listen, absorb, and file away the information that comes your way.

You will be bursting with ideas, to such an extent that it will be hard for you not to keep them for pouring forth. Your mind is like a faucet that has been left running at full strength. Ideas for inventions and new devices that can help speed up everyday tasks in the kitchen are likely to pop into your head at random times.Do not try to fit your thoughts into any sort of rigid form. It could be that you are being encouraged one way or another to think in a certain way. This is one of those times in which you may find yourself rebelling against this very concept. No one has the power to force your thoughts to be anything but your own; so make sure you don’t get lured into thinking otherwise.

Regardless of what you say, someone is going to have an opinion that is just the opposite. You may run into snags left and right as you proceed through your day, but try not to take this as an insult to yourself personally. This is a good day for you to gain perspective on issues that you might normally be hesitant to touch.

Be prepared for some surprises, because things aren’t exactly going to pan out as you had envisioned. The element of the unexpected is quite strong, so don’t get upset if your list of things to do is constantly changing or experiencing setbacks. The best way to deal with this is to simply invite this unexpected energy in instead of trying to resist it.

If you need to convince someone of something, now is the time to do it. Your mental cunning and magic with words is at its peak, so take advantage of this opportunity. More than likely, your quick tongue is going to get you into situations that you never thought you would find yourself in. Be open to these new adventures and the wide variety of characters that you run into along the way.

Be careful of getting into battle with someone, because their ammunition is just as strong as yours. More than likely, you will underestimate the power of your opponent, and before you know it, that person will have you caught in their own mental trap. Insisting that you are right about everything is most likely going to result in a difficult gridlock in which there is absolutely no exchange of useful information at all.

It is clear that you have something to say, so say it. Do not pretend that you don’t have an opinion on the situation. Even if you yourself think that you don’t really care about the outcome of a certain issue, there is an important part of you deep down that really does. Your idea about how things should be done is just as valid as everyone else’s.

Freedom of speech is likely to be a big theme for you. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself up on your soapbox in support of the rights. Others are apt to listen to you attentively, so be clear and concise in your arguments. Imagine yourself as someone who is giving a pep talk for a group of revolutionaries who are ready to launch a fight for an important cause.

A new person is likely to enter into your life, and more than likely, this person will catch you by surprise. It is a good time for you to add new blood to your circle of friends. By engaging in the activities that you enjoy the most, you will most certainly create new bonds with the people that you meet in these arenas of your life.

Your mind is quite active and cunning, as you move through your day with ease. Activate the gray matter by engaging in games with others that help to stimulate your mental capacity. Acceptance of new ideas is key, and you will find that this comes to you naturally. The hard part will be convincing others to be as open-minded as you. If anyone can do this, however, it will be you, so feel free to try.

1- Uterus; 5- Toothbrush brand; 10- Soviet news service; 14- Caesar’s wings; 15- Dillies; 16- Fine-tune; 17- Put on the market; 18- 4th letter of the Greek alphabet; 19- Getting ___ years (aging); 20- Mattress of straw; 22- Songs for two; 23- Crone; 24- Cloudlike mass; 25- Reconstruct; 29- Naught; 33- Run away to get married; 34- ___ about (approximately); 36- Winter Palace ruler; 37- ___-en-Provence, France; 38- Alley Oop’s girl-friend; 39- Mil. address; 40- Slay; 42- Hey, over here!; 43- High-fives; 45- Metal marble; 47- Leads on; 49- Very early; 50- Popeye’s Olive; 51- Ankle bones; 54- Cemetery; 60- Burnoose wearer; 61- New Zealand native; 62- Sneaky guy?; 63- Marquand sleuth; 64- Light purple; 65- Son of Zeus in Greek mythology; 66- Nosegay; 67- Actress Graff; 68- Flat circular plate;

1- Stinging insect; 2- Olive genus; 3- French Sudan, today; 4- Bellboy; 5- Methuselah’s claim to fame; 6- Regrets; 7- ___ well...; 8- Stringed instrument; 9- Youth org.; 10- Notion; 11- Topdrawer; 12- Foul mood; 13- Chamber workers: Abbr.; 21- Fill with cargo; 22- Speck; 24- ___ song (cheaply); 25- Peruses; 26- “Silas Marner” author; 27- Pluck; 28- Off the leash; 29- Nick of “Lorenzo’s Oil”; 30- Sir ___ Newton was an English mathematician; 31- One of the two equal sections of a cone; 32- Vulgar; 35- Rejections; 38- Mayberry kid; 41- Paperboy; 43- Eye sore; 44- Frog’s perch; 46- Wreath of flowers; 48- Beginner; 51- Pack down; 52- Buck follower; 53- Phooey!; 54- Olympian Devers; 55- Portrayal by an actor; 56- Irish island group; 57- Ethereal: Prefix; 58- Hwys.; 59- Writing table; 61- Year in Edward the Confessor’s reign;

BEETLE BAILEY R

Thursday, December 8, 201617DHRUVA ( Telugu / Action ) Starring: Ram Charan, Arvind Swamy and Rakul Preet Singh DANA : Timings: 10:30, 13:30, 16:30, 19:30, 22:30SEEF (II) : Daily At: (12.45 Mn Thurs/Fri)SEEF (I) : Daily At: 11.45 Am + 2.45 + 5.45 + 8.45 + 11.45 PmAL JAZIRA : Daily At: 8.45 + (11.45 Pm Thurs/Fri)AL HAMRA : Daily At: 12.00 + 6.00 Pm

WOLVES AT THE DOOR ( Horror / Thriller ) Starring: Katie Cassidy, Elizabeth Henstridge, Jane Kaczmarek DANA : Timings: 11:00,12:30,14:00,15:30,17:00,18:30,20:00,21:30,23:00,00:30CINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.30 Am + 1.30 + 3.30 + 5.30 + 7.30 + 9.30 + 11.30 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.00 + 2.00 + 4.00 + 6.00 + 8.00 + 10.00 Pm + 12.00 Mn

CHENNAI 600028 II: SECOND INNINGS (TAMIL/SPORTS/COMEDY) Starring: VJai, Shiva, Premji, Aravind Akash, Nithin Sathya, DANA : Timings: 10:30, 13:15, 16:00, 18:45,21:30,00:15SEEF (I) : Daily At: 12.30 + 3.00 + 8.30 Pm

MOANA – 3D ATMOS

(ANIMATION/ADVENTURE/COMEDY) Starring: Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House DANA : Timings: 10:45,12:45,14:45,16:45,18:45,20:45,22:45,00:45

TROLLS – 2D (ANIMATION / ADVENTURE / COMEDY) Starring: Anna Kendrick, Zooey Deschanel, Justin Timberlake DANA : Timings: 10:45, 14:15, 17:45, 21:15SEEF (II) : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 12.30 + 2.30 + 4.30 + 6.30 + 8.30 + 10.30 PmCINECO (20) : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 12.45 + 2.45 + 4.45 + 6.45 + 8.45 + 10.45 Pm Daily At (3D): 11.45 Am + 3.45 + 7.45 PmWADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 12.45 + 2.45 + 4.45 + 6.45 + 8.45 + 10.45 Pm

STORKS – 2D ( Animation / Comedy / Family )Starring: Andy Samberg, Katie Crown, Kelsey Grammer DANA : Timings: 12:30, 16:00, 19:30, 23:00CINECO (20) : Daily At (3D): 1.45 + 5.45 + 9.45 PmSEEF (I) : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 12.45 + 2.45 + 4.45 Pm

FORCE 2 ( Hindi / Action / Adventure / Crime )Starring: John Abraham,

Sonakshi Sinha, Tahir Raj Bhasin DANA : Timings: 10:45, 13:15, 15:45, 18:15, 20:45, 23:15

MOANA – 2D ATMOS(ANIMATION/ADVENTURE/COMEDY) Starring: Auli’i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House DANA : Timings: 10:30,12:30,14:30,16:30,18:30,20:30,22:30,00:30CINECO (20) : Daily At (Atmos): 11.00 Am + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PmDaily At: (12.45 Mn Thurs/Fri)Daily At (3D): 12.30 + 3.00 + 5.30 + 8.00 + 10.30 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.15 + 2.45 + 5.15 + 7.45 + 10.15 Pm + (12.45 Mn Thurs/Fri)Daily At (3D): 11.15 Am + 1.45 + 4.15 + 6.45 + 9.15 + 11.45 PmSAAR : Daily At: 12.00 + 2.15 + 4.30 + 6.45 + 9.00 + (11.15 Pm Thurs/Fri)AL JAZIRA : Daily At: 2.00 + 4.15 + 6.30 PmWADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 Pm

BEFIKRE ( HINDI/COMEDY/ROMANCE/CRIME ) Starring: Ranveer Singh, Vaani Kapoor, Elisa Bachir Bey DANA : Timings: 10:45,13:15,15:45,18:15,20:45,23:15CINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.30 Am + 2.00 + 4.30 + 7.00 + 9.30 Pm + 12.00 Mn + (1.00 Am Thurs/Fri)Daily At (Vip Ii): 11.00 Am + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: (12.30 Mn Thurs/Fri)SEEF (I) : Daily At: 11.00 Am + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 PmSAAR : Daily At: 1.00 + 3.30 + 6.00 + 8.30 + (11.00 Pm Thurs/Fri)AL JAZIRA : Daily At: 2.00 + 4.30 + 7.00 + 9.30 + (12.00 Mn Thurs/Fri)WADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 11.00 Am + 1.30 + 4.00 + 6.30 + 9.00 + 11.30 Pm

KATTAPPANA ( MALAYALAM / COMEDY) Starring: Vishnu Unnikrishnan, Dharmajan Bolgatty,Siddique DANA : Timings: 10:30,13:00,15:30,18:00,20:30,23:00SEEF (I) : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 Pm + 12.00 MnAL HAMRA : Daily At: 3.00 + 9.00 Pm + (12.00 Mn Thurs/Fri)

DEAR ZINDAGI ( Hindi / Drama / Romance ) S t a r r i n g : Alia Bhatt, Shah Rukh Khan, Aditya Roy Kapoor DANA : Timings: 10:30,13:15,16:00,18:45,21:30,00:15CINECO (20) : Daily At: 12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.00 + 3.00 + 6.00 + 9.00 Pm + 12.00 MnWADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 11.00 Am + 2.00 + 5.00 + 8.00 + 11.00 Pm

SAITHAN ( Tamil / Thriller ) Starring: Vijay Antony, Arundhathi Nair, Charuhasan DANA : Timings: 10:45,13:00,15:15,17:30,19:45,22:00,00:15

LION ( Drama ) Starring: Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, Rooney MaraDANA : Timings: 12:30, 16:30, 20:30, 00:30

FANTASTIC BEASTS & WHERE TO FIND THEM – 2D ( Adventure / Family / Fantasy )Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Katherine Waterston, Alison Sudol DANA : Timings: 11:00, 13:30, 16:00, 18:30, 21:00, 23:30CINECO (20) : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 1.00 + 3.45 + 6.30 + 9.15 Pm + 12.00 MnDaily At (Vip I): 12.00 + 2.45 + 5.30 + 8.15 + 11.00 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.45 + 3.30 + 6.15 + 9.00 + 11.45 PmSAAR : Daily At: 1.00 + 6.15 + (11.30 Pm Thurs/Fri)

DOCTOR STRANGE – 2D ( Action/Adventure Fantasy )Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams DANA : Timings: 11:00,15:30, 20:00CINECO (20) : Daily At: 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 Pm

ALLIED (Action/Drama/ History ) Starring: Brad Pitt, Vincent Ebrahim, Xavier De GuillebonDANA : Timings: 13:15, 17:45, 22:15, 00:30CINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.15 Am + 1.45 + 4.15 + 6.45 + 9.15 + 11.45 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 1.30 + 6.30 + 11.30 PmSAAR : Daily At: 3.45 + 9.00 PmWADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 1.00 + 3.30 + 6.00 + 8.30 +

11.00 Pm

UNDERWORLD 5: BLOOD WARS – 3D ( Action / Horror )Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Theo James, Lara Pulver Timings: 10:30,12:15,14:00,15:45,17:30,19:15,21:00,22:45,00:30

ARRIVAL ( Drama / Mystery / Shi-Fi )Starring: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker DANA : Timings: 10:45, 15:15, 19:45, 00:15CINECO (20) : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 PmSEEF (I) : Daily At: 6.45 + 9.00 + 11.15 PmSAAR : Daily At: 12.15 + 4.30 + 8.45 Pm

THE UNMARRIED WIFE(TAGALOG/DRAMA/ROMANCE) Starring: Dingdong Dantes, Angelica Panganiban, Paulo Avelino DANA : Timings: 13:00, 17:30, 22:00SEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.30 + 5.00 + 9.30 Pm SEEF (I) : Daily At: 6.00 + 11.30 Pm

THE GIRL WITH ALL THE GIFTS (Drama/Horror/Thriller)Starring: Gemma Arterton, Glenn Close, Dominique Tipper DANA : Timings: 10:45, 13:00, 15:15, 17:30, 19:45, 22:00, 00:15SEEF (II) : Daily At: 12.15 + 2.30 + 4.45 + 7.00 + 9.15 + 11.30 Pm

UNDERWORLD 5: BLOOD WARS ( Action / Horror )Starring: Kate Beckinsale, Theo James, Lara Pulver DANA : Timings: 11:00,12:45,14:30,16:15,18:00,19:45,21:30,23:15,01:00CINECO (20) : Daily At: 12.00 + 2.00 + 4.00 + 6.00 + 8.00 + 10.00 Pm + 12.00 Mn + (1.00 Am Thurs/Fri)SEEF (II) : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 12.45 + 2.45 + 4.45 + 6.45 + 8.45 + 10.45 PmSAAR : Daily At: 2.30 + 6.45 + (11.00 Pm Thurs/Fri)WADI AL SAIL : Daily At: 11.45

Am + 1.45 + 3.45 + 5.45 + 7.45 + 9.45 + 11.45 Pm

THE NEIGHBOR (15+) (Thriller/Crime) New Starring: Josh Stewart, Alex Essoe, Luke EdwardsCINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.00 Am + 3.15 + 7.30 + 11.45 PmSEEF (II) : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 3.00 + 7.30 Pm + 12.00 Mn

JACK REACHER: NEVER GO BACK (PG-15) (Action/Thriller/Adventure/Crime) Starring: Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, Robert KnepperCINECO (20) : Daily At: 10.45 Am + 1.15 + 3.45 + 6.15 + 8.45 + 11.15 Pm + (1.00 Am Thurs/Fri)SEEF (II) : Daily At:11.00 Am + 4.00 + 9.00 Pm

LAAF WA DAWARAAN (PG-13) (Arabic/Comedy/Romantic/Drama) Starring: Ahmed Helmi, Donia Samir Ghanem, SabreenCINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.30 Am + 1.45 + 4.00 + 6.15 + 8.30 + 10.45 + 11.45 PmSEEF (I) : Daily At: 10.30 Am + 2.45 + 7.15 + 11.45 Pm

MECHANIC: RESURRECTION (PG-15) (Action/Crime/Thriller) Starring: Jason Statham, Jessica Alba, Tommy Lee JonesCINECO (20) : Daily At: 11.00 Am + 1.00 + 3.00 + 5.00 + 7.00 + 9.00 + 11.00 Pm

THE ACCOUNTANT (PG-15) (Thriller/Action/Drama) Starring: Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick, J.k. SimmonsCINECO (20) : Daily At: 12.30 + 3.15 + 6.00 + 8.45 + 11.30 Pm

THAT AL TARABIZA (PG-13) (Comedy) Starring: Mohamed Saad, Nermin Feki, Minna, Izzat Abu OufCINECO (20) : Daily At: 1.00 + 5.15 + 9.30 PmSEEF (I) : Daily At: 12.30 + 5.00 + 9.30 Pm

As lumbering and slow-mov-ing as the vehicle in which

most of its action takes place, Nick Gillespie’s horror thriller makes the familiar mistake of confusing obscurity with ten-sion. Set in a vaguely apocalyp-tic, war-torn landscape (is there any other kind?), Tank 432 repre-sents an occasionally intriguing but frustratingly oblique high-concept genre exercise that mainly induces tedium, not to

mention claustrophobia.The plot, such as it is, concerns a group of British mercenar-ies escorting a pair of orange jumpsuit-clad captives through a desolate countryside. They’re being pursued by menacing figures who are either wearing a gas mask or in serious need of a personal stylist. The bedraggled soldiers and their prisoners, under the command of the tough, orders-barking Smith

(Gordon Kennedy), eventually take refuge in an abandoned Bulldog tank (which explains the film’s original, more evoca-tive title, Belly of the Bulldog). The evasive tactic seems like a good idea for a while, until they discover that the tank’s hatch is broken and they’re trapped inside. The resulting situation turns out to be far more sus-penseful for the characters than viewers. (hollywoodreporter)

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18Thursday, December 8, 2016

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F O R S A L E(ON “AS IS WHERE IS” BASIS)

A leading Supermarket in Galali, as a part of their other plans, is offering the take-over/outright purchase – with /

without stocks, except C R.

Interested parties may contact

39540691

SALES SUPERVISOR FOR A LEADING FMCG COMPANYLooking for a dynamic Supervisor for the FMCG

division of a well-established Company. The candidate should have hands-on experience regarding distribution & marketing of FMCG

products, close rapport with the customers & a team-worker.

The candidate should be preferably an MBA/BBA – Marketing, presentable, holder of valid Bahraini/GCC driving licence, good knowledge of computer, analytical skills and fluent in English..

Age should be around 35 years. Interested may apply with CV and photograph to:

huntjob08@gmail.comInterested Vendors with proven experience in providing the above services may contact Bapco Procurement Department at the Refinery on Telephone 17752995, 17755845, 17757054 or 17755438 or 36027245 to obtain the appropriate tender documents. Tender Documents can be collected from Porta Cabin No.118 (Procurement Department – Tendering Unit) located outside the Refinery, on the corner of the road, close to the Contractor’s Gate from Wednesday, 7th December 2016 to Wednesday, 21st December, 2016 between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm (Sunday to Wednesday only). Vendors should deposit full contact details with the Procurement Department.

• Quotation should be deposited in the tender box provided at the Bapco Refinery North Gate Security Office Reception, before 03.00 pm on the tender submission date.

• This tender is subject to the provisions of Legislative Decree No.36 of 2002 with respect to Regulating Government Tenders & Purchases and the Legislative Decree No.37 of 2002 with respect to the Tender Law’s implementing regulations.

• The following conditions shall be complied with:

Kingdom of Bahrain

The Bahrain Petroleum Company BSC (Closed) hereby invites tender for the following:

1. Submit quotations on Form No.Bapco 3499/2(5/99).2. Ensure to stamp with the official seal on all the original documents and copies thereof,

which form part of the offer.3. Enclose a copy of Certificate of Compliance with the Employment Percentage for

Bahraini Manpower issued by the Ministry of Labour.4. Enclose a copy of the Commercial Registration Certificate valid for the current year, and

be in conformity with the subject tender.5. Award of Purchase Agreement to a Contractor who is not on Bapco’s Approved List of

Contractors will be subject to successful pre-qualification.

Tender Title Tender No.Tender Submission

Day Date Time

SUPPLY AND OPERATE VENDING MACHINES IN REFINEREY AND AWALI

BUILDINGS

T160191 (19) 27th December, 20163:00 pm

• This announcement is considered as a part of the Tender Documents.

TENDER

19Thursday, December 8, 2016

PUBLIC UTILITY NUMBERS

Police , Fire, Ambulance - 999Drainage - 80001810Coast Guard - 17700000Traffic and Accidents - 199Electricity, Water 17515555Meteorological Centre - 17235235Consumer Protection - 17574700Municipal Emergencies - 39609331Complaints Line at TRA - 81188

Local Call Assistance - 100Local Directory Enquiries - 181International Call Enquiries (Country & Area Codes) - 191 Weatherline - 17 236 236Flight Information - 17 339 339

Salmaniya Medical - 17288888KIMS Medical Centre - 17822123Royal Bahrain Hospital - 17246811BDF Hospital - 17766666Awali Hospital - 17753333Al Kindi Hospital - 17240444Al Hilal Hospital - 17344199 Al Amal Hospital - 17602602Al Jazira Hospital - 17288000Psychiatric Hospital 00397271 -Bahrain Inter’l Hospital - 17598222Ibn Al Nafees - 17828282International Medical City - 17490006 Al Noor Specialist Hospital - 17260026 American Mission Hospital - 17253447Bahrain Specialist Hospital - 17812222Gulf Dental Speciality Hospital - 17741444

A’ali - 17648888Sitra - 17459888Riffa - 17768888 Hoora - 17318888Naim - 17243188Al Razi - 17265888Jidhafs - 17558777Kuwait - 17608888Budaiya - 17698888Isa Town - 17480888Muharraq - 17460888Ibn Sena’a - 17535155Hamad Town - 17418888Sabah Al Salem - 17821888Bilad Al Qadeem - 17408888

Ruyan - 17784491Ruyan - 17594902Zallaq - 17632263Al Hila - 17341700Al Rahma - 17687117Al Hekma - 17550188Awal Pharmacy - 17772023Jaffer Pharmacy - 17291039Nasser Pharmacy - 17740900National Pharmacy - 17620208 Al Bader Pharmacy - 17242100Al Rahma Pharmacy - 17687117Al Maraya Pharmacy - 17784029Al Muwasaa Pharmacy - 17335666Vet Services 24-hours - 39481208Hamad Town Pharmacy - 17410114Majeed Jaffer Pharmacy 17331168

Airport Taxis - 17 260 208Bahrain Limos - 17 266 266London Taxis - 17 461 746Speedy Motors - 17 682 999

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

PUBLIC SERVICE NUMBERS

HOSPITALS

PHARMACIES

TAXIS

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Thursday, December 8, 201620

Meureudu

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that

struck western Indonesia yesterday has nearly doubled to 97, the military said, as more bodies were pulled from the rubble of scores of shattered buildings.

The shallow 6.5-magnitude quake struck Pidie Jaya district in Aceh province at dawn as many in the mainly Muslim region on Sumatra island were preparing for morning prayers.

The death toll has steadily climbed as rescue crews search, often by hand, through the homes, mosques and shops reduced to ruins.

The earlier figure of 52 dead

was revised up significantly by the Indonesian military, which has taken over responsibility for the search and rescue operation.

“So far 97 people have been killed and the number keeps growing,” Aceh military chief Tatang Sulaiman said.

“When we retrieve bodies sometimes there’s five, sometimes 10 corpses.”

More than 1,000 soldiers and about 900 police have been deployed to the worst-hit areas to set up shelters and evacuation points, he added.

Hundreds of houses and shops had been levelled by the quake, leaving countless people homeless and in need of basic supplies like food and

water, officials said.“The electricity is still off.

Some places have generators, but there are not many,” local disaster agency head Puteh Manaf said.

“If it rains there will be disease.”

‘Everything was destroyed’The sole hospital in Pidie Jaya was quickly overwhelmed, with patients treated on the grass out front or sent to neighbouring districts with better facilities.

The district health office chief Said Abdullah said nearly 200 injured had arrived since the quake, but many would not enter the hospital

for fear of aftershocks.“We are treating people

outside. We took the beds out because nobody is daring enter the hospital,” he said.

Another regional hospital had suffered serious damage in the quake, along with schools and other key infrastructure, a national disaster agency spokesman said.

In the hard-hit town of Meureudu, terrified residents rushed outside as their homes buckled and crumbled.

“Everything was destroyed,” said Hasbi Jaya, who pulled his two children unconscious from the rubble of their home.

“It was pitch black because the electricity was out. I looked around and all my

neighbours’ homes were completely flattened.”

Dazed residents were wandering debris-strewn streets, unable to return to their damaged homes in fear of aftershocks.

Some fled to higher ground for fear of a tsunami although no alert was issued.

A huge undersea earthquake in 2004 triggered a tsunami that engulfed parts of Aceh and other countries around the Indian Ocean, killing more than 170,000 people in Indonesia alone.

Indonesian seismologists said the latest earthquake was felt across much of Aceh province, with many aftershocks following the

initial tremor.The US Geological Survey

upgraded the magnitude to 6.5 from an initial reading of 6.4 and issued a yellow alert for expected fatalities and damage.

Indonesia experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, where tectonic plates collide.

Aceh lies on the northern tip of Sumatra island, which is particularly prone to quakes.

In June a 6.5-magnitude quake struck off the west of Sumatra, damaging scores of buildings and injuring eight people. (AFP)

Residents gather out-side a damaged mosque

The hand of an earthquake survivor is seen under rubble

Earthquake survivors rest in the corridor of an over-crowded district hospital

Members of a search and rescue team look for earthquake survivors

Four migrants drown off Morocco coast

Thursday, December 8, 2016

I think there’s general willingness to accept at least some of the child refugees, by most people, not all, but most people. I don’t think Britain’s stupidity on Brexit should affect the principle of what we are doing

#PollToday

Yes No Can’t Say

Are small-time coldstores in Bahrain an easy target for robbers?

Alfred DubsBritish Lord

Rest in sight

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Paris chokes under worst air pollution in decade

BBC under investigation for profile of new Thai king

NATO urges continued sanctions on Russia

Four sub-Saharan African migrants drowned on Wednesday after their boat capsized off the Moroccan coast, local media reported.

Paris choked under its worst winter pollution in a dec-ade, with commuters enjoy-ing free public transport and half of the cars ordered off the road.

Thai authorities are investi-gating the BBC over a Thai-language profile of the new king, officials said yesterday.

Damaging economic sanc-tions imposed on Russia over the Ukraine crisis must be kept in place to force Moscow to meet its cease-fire commitments, NATO head Jens Stoltenberg said.

21

Islamabad

A Pakistani plane carrying 48 people crashed

yesterday in the country’s mountainous north and burst into flames, authorities said, as rescue workers pulled dozens of bodies from the wreckage and officials expressed little hope for survivors.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Flight PK661 came down on a flight from the city of Chitral to Islamabad, the civil aviation authority said.

It was not immediately clear what caused the crash, which occurred near the village of Saddha Batolni in Abbottabad district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The military, which was part of rescue operations, said 21 bodies had so far been retrieved from the wreckage.

“The way the plane crashed and broke into pieces, there is no chance of any survival,” Sardar Aurangzeb Nalota, a local legislator, said.

Villagers were collecting body parts in shawls and on woven beds, he said, while police and rescue teams were searching the site with torches.

“The fuel tank is still on fire. the plane debris is scattered in the mountains and residents told me that it is completely destroyed,” Nalota said.

Ilyas Abbasi, a police official in the nearest town Havelian, said the site was more than four kilometres away over hilly terrain and had to be reached on foot.

The airline said the plane was an ATR-42 turboprop aircraft, which lost contact en route from Chitral. (AFP)

Pakistan plane carrying 47 people crashes

Los Angeles

An anonymous bomb threat against the Los Angeles

metro appears to have been a hoax, officials said late Tuesday after a heightened alert lasting much of the day.

Police deployed in force throughout the system following a tip from overseas about an imminent attack on a busy station near the Universal Studios theme park. The Federal Bureau of Investigation said in a statement there was “no evidence” of a threat. 

“Working with our law enforcement partners,  the FBI has found no  evidence that the  threat  made  to the  Los Angeles  Metro Red Line  is  credible,” the bureau said. “Based on significant similarities, law enforcement partners also believe the anonymous caller may have, on a previous occasion, reported threats that did not materialize.”

The man, who spoke English, relayed the threat in a telephone call early Monday to a public safety line run by an unidentified foreign government, which passed on the information to the FBI’s terrorism task force. In a bid to allay fears, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti rode the metro from Universal City early Tuesday. (AFP)

No evidenceof bomb on LA’s metro

New York

Time magazine yesterday named Donald Trump its

“Person of the Year” for 2016 for his stunning upset election victory that rewrote the rules of politics, delivering him to the helm of a divided America.

The president-elect dialed into NBC television’s Today show, welcoming the accolade as a “very, very great honour,” denying he was responsible for divisions and praising outgoing Democratic President Barack Obama.

The real estate billionaire, who has never previously held elected

office and shocked the US political establishment by defeating his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton, is featured on Time’s cover described as “Donald Trump: President of the Divided States of America.”

The magazine said its person of the year, an annual tradition that dates back 90 years, “had the greatest influence, for better or worse, on the events of the year.”

“So which is it this year: better or worse?” editor-in-chief Nancy Gibbs wrote.

“The challenge for Donald Trump is how profoundly the

country disagrees about the answer... 2016 was the year of his rise; 2017 will be the year of his rule, and like all newly elected leaders, he has a chance to fulfill promises and defy expectations.”

Trump won the title, she added, for “reminding America that demagoguery feeds on despair and that truth is only as powerful as the trust in those who speak it, for empowering a hidden electorate by mainstreaming its furies and live-streaming its fears, and for framing tomorrow’s political culture by demolishing yesterday’s.”

Time names Trump ‘Person of the Year’

SPORTSThursday, December 8, 201622

Firstcare Tornado beat Ritz CarltonManamaFirstcare Tornado beat Ritz Carlton by 22 runs in the latest matches of the Sprite sponsored BCL Premier League at the Busaiteen Grounds in Muharraq.Batting first, Firstcare Tornado scored 155 for eight in 20 overs with the main scorers being Rizwan (60) Samar (34) with Naeem (three for 26) the best of the bowlers. In reply, Ritz Carlton were restricted to 133 for five in its 20 overs despite a brave knock by Sajjid (64) with Ajmal (two for 28).

Al Noaimi and Kerry Diaper win ManamaDiab Sager Al Noaimi and Kerry Diaper were both vic-torious in the Russell Cup and Memorial Trophy golf tournament played at Awali Golf Club last weekend.Diab S. Al Noaimi (gross 147) triumphed over Ahmed Al Noaimi (147) to claim the Russell Cup after day two, with Hamed Fares Al Qutami (150) in third.

Porsche GT3 rolls into Dubai

Ironman show beginsDT News NetworkManama

The Ironman 70.3 Middle East Championship will

be officially inaugurated today at BIC, with a special opening ceremony at 7pm, to be aired live on Bahrain Sports T.V channel, under the patronage of Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

This comes as the Organising Committee have finalised all the preparations to the hosting of the three-stage Championship, which begins on Saturday with a 1.9kg from 7am with a swim near Four Seasons Hotel,

followed by 90km of cycling and a 21.1km run and conclude at the BIC.

HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of Bahrain Olympic Committee, expressed his utmost appreciation to HRH the Crown Prince for patronising the event.

“I would like to warmly welcome all the participants, including the world’s champions and those arriving from different countries as well as the young Bahrainis who are taking

part in the event and showcase their best performances for a competitive and successful championship,” Shaikh Nasser said.

Ironman strengthens Bahrain’s position Shaikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, General Secretary of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, stressed holding such an event bolsters Bahrain’s reputation as a key venue for international events. “Embracing such an event represents a great step towards improving Ironman sport in Bahrain under the care of Shaikh Nasser and best wishes

to the Bahraini participants,” Shaikh Salman said.The Organising Committee will today also hold a briefing for all the participants, at Four Seasons Hotel, to share with them all instructions and matters related to the Championship and the importance of being present.

An expo featuring equipment and kits used in Ironman championships will be inaugurated today at 10am and is open until 7pm and throughout the championship at the Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, offering the chance to triathlon enthusiasts to shop for the best brands for their requirements.

DT News NetworkManama

The Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East

rolls into Dubai this weekend for the second round of Season 8 and already the competition is shaping up to be fiercer than ever, with just eight points separating the top five drivers.

Following a thrilling opening round in Bahrain, all eyes will be on the Dubai Autodrome tomorrow and on Saturday.

Already the new season has shown a new order of racers staking their claim for glory, which is widely recognised as one of the top winter development grounds in the world of motor racing.

Only two of the top five racers have competed in the series before with newcomers Tom Oliphant, Dennis Olsen and current leader, Dylan Pereira, making their debuts in

Bahrain last month. With Ryan Cullen of Ireland

competing throughout Season 7 and finishing third overall, and Qatar-based Charlie Frijns taking fifth in the 2015/2016, they look to make their experience count on a track which has been a traditional favourite of GT3 racers.

Bahraini teenage duo of Isa A.

Al Khalifa and Isa S. Al Khalifa have both had a great start to season 8 of the championship. The young drivers, who both started their racing careers through professional karting, are competing a full season in the championship for the first time. The new season has seen a flood of newcomers participating and the newly

created GCC rookie category gives local drivers the chance to build their skills against racers from around the world, this weekend in Dubai will see almost ten drivers race on the track for the first time.

The second round of the championship featuring the third and fourth races of the twelve race season.

Action from the previous race

Infantino backs 48-team WC with 16 groupsLausanne

FIFA president Gianni Infantino wants to expand

the World Cup finals to 48 teams featuring 16 groups of three starting with the 2026 tournament, a source within world football’s governing body said yesterday.

Infantino, who had until now proposed a 48-team event but with a traditional 32 countries advancing to the finals, will submit his latest proposal at a FIFA Council meeting in Zurich on January 9-10.

A letter outlining the new format was due to be sent

to the members of the FIFA Council on Wednesday, the source said, adding that the format was “preferred by president Infantino.”

Under the new format, the source said, “every qualified

team would play at least two group matches. The top two in each group would then go through to the last 32.”

The FIFA Council will vote on several proposals at their January meeting: whether to maintain the current World Cup format of 32 teams, extend it to 40 teams or go to 48 teams.

Infantino, formerly Michel Platini’s right-hand man at UEFA, said recently he was in favour of a World Cup jointly organised by several countries to share out the burden of providing facilities for the tournament. (AFP)

Gianni Infantino

Mario Balotelli

Hugo Lloris

Ezequiel Lavezzi Hebei China Fortune

53.2 million € over 23 months

Fabio Coentrao Pepe

3.5 million €Panama

3.7 million €British Virgin Islands

Radamel FalcaoAtletico Madrid2011-2013

10.7 million €Miami, Monaco(currentclub)

1.3 million €Switzerland149.5 million €

Switzerland, British VirginIslands

Switzerland

Accusations of‘hidden’ incomeSalaryBonus

12 million €Period at Real Madrid

Cristiano Ronaldo

Jose Mourinho

1 million pounds (1.2 M €)

7,000 pounds (8,300 €)3,500 pounds

Win

Draw, loss

Tottenham, England

50,000 pounds

4.25 million €per year

For every goalabove 5 goalthreshold

Liverpool (2014-2015)

For not being sent off more than 3 timesfor violent behaviour, spitting, insultingor arguing

The lucrativeworld of football’s

superstars

Sources: EIC, Mediapart, European media

British Club A triumphAidan Payne/DTNNaidan@dt.bh

Manama

British Club A edged out two-time defending champions

Dilmun Club A 16-14 to win for the ninth time this season after the completion of the ninth and final round of the DHL Bahrain Expatriate Netball League at the Dilmun Sports Club in Saar.

With maximum points (27) British Club A finished top of the standings, while Dilmun Club A (22) slipped to third place. Players of the match were goal keeper Emma Hewitt for British Club and Goal Attack Cayla Harris for Dilmun.

In another match, Dilmun B ran out 17-12 winners over Rugby Club B, with players of the match being Gaol Attack Chloe Atkinson for Dilmun and Goal Defence Ellen Grifith for Rugby B.

Shaikh Nasser

BaselLucas Perez made the most of a rare start by scoring a hat-trick in Tuesday’s 4-1 rout of Basel that sent Arsenal through to the Champions League last 16 as group win-ners. The Spaniard missed over a month with an ankle injury following his move from Deportivo la Coruna.

Perez hat-trick propels Gunners to first place

x

Thursday, December 8, 2016 23

“I’ve never been one for liking having things around me where people are trying to just say yes to me. I want them to tell me the truth”

Golfer Thomas Bjorn

/nobonline/newsofbahrain

For more, catch us online at: www.newsofbahrain.com

SPORTS

Chisora throws table at opponent Whyte

MCC committeerecommends football-style sending-offsMumbaiUmpires would be allowed to send off players for seri-ous disciplinary breaches as part of a set of recommen-dations made by the World Cricket committee of MCC, the guardians of the game.

Kiwi underdogs feel pinch in Japan

AC Milan sale to Chinese put off to March - club

YokohamaPlucky Auckland City will go into today’s opening game of the Club World Cup against Japan’s Kashima Antlers deter-mined to avoid a spanking.

MilanThe sale of Italian giants AC Milan has been pushed back three months to March after a request by the Chinese consortium which is tak-ing over the seven-time European champions.

IOC extends sanctions against Russia over dopingLausanneThe International Olympic Committee (IOC) yester-day extended sanctions against Russia over doping until further notice.

Barcelona cruise

Barcelona

Arda Turan grabbed a hat-trick and Lionel

Messi his 10th Champions League goal of the season as a much-changed Barcelona still cruised past Borussia Moenchengladbach 4-0 on Tuesday.

Barca had already booked their place in the last 16 as Group C winners, but were looking for a morale boosting win after three successive draws, including the concession of a last minute equaliser to Real Madrid in a 1-1 draw on Saturday.

Messi continued to cut the gap on Cristiano Ronaldo as the Champions League’s all-time top

goalscorer when he slotted home the opener after just 16 minutes.

Turan then struck his first Barca hat-trick in a 17-minute second-half spell as the hosts took out their frustration on a dispirited Monchengladbach.

“I have to congratulate the players because today was a game in which we had little to win and things could have gone very differently,” Barca boss Luis Enrique told BeIN Sports Spain.

Whilst Barca can look forward to the last 16 for a 13th straight season, third place in the group behind Manchester City ensures Moenchengladbach drop

into the Europa League.Enrique retained only

Messi, Andre Gomes and Javier Mascherano from the side that started El Clasico on Saturday.

And Messi’s insatiable appetite for goal was rewarded when he exchanged passes with Turan to sweep home his 93rd in the Champions League, now just three adrift of Ronaldo in the race to be the first man to a 100.

The five-time World Player of the Year was the persistent threat throughout the first 45 minutes, but Barca captain Andres Iniesta also impressed on his first start for six weeks after a knee injury. (AFP)

Boris Becker criticises Djokovic following splitBerlin

Novak Djokovic failed to train hard enough and will not

regain the top world ranking unless he “puts in the hours”, former coach Boris Becker says, after the pair split.

Djokovic has won 12 Grand Slam titles -- six under Becker -- but on Tuesday the Serb confirmed rumours that he and the German legend had parted ways after three years together.

“He has not spent as much time on the practice court as he should have in the last six months and he knows that,” Becker, 49, told Sky Sports News.

“Success doesn’t come by pushing a button. You have to

work your butt off because that is what your opponents are doing.”

After winning the French Open in June, Djokovic had a poor second half of the season, losing the world number one ranking he had held for 122 weeks to Britain’s Andy Murray in November.

Djokovic also lost his Wimbledon and US Open titles

and was eliminated in the first round of the Rio Olympics.

He made a change to his coaching team towards the end of the season and Spaniard Pepe Imaz joined him for the Paris Masters, where the four-time champion fell in the quarter-finals, and the World Tour Finals in London -- where he lost to Murray.

“Such a decision does not happen overnight, it was a process,” said Becker, calling their separation “consensual”.

Becker, a three-time Wimbledon winner, says he will now be Djokovic’s “greatest fan” and believes the 29-year-old will regain his number one status. (AFP)

Boris Becker (file pic)

Dubai Ladies Masters suspendedDubai

The first round of the Dubai Ladies Masters, the season-

ending championship of the Ladies European Tour, was suspended yesterday after the death of a caddie.

Austrian Maximillian Zechmann, a former caddie on the European Tour, collapsed on the 13th fairway and received on-site treatment from the medical team before being taken to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

“Everyone at the Ladies European Tour is extremely shocked and saddened today by this sudden death and

therefore we have taken the decision to suspend first round play as a mark of respect,” said Ladies European Tour CEO

Ivan Khodabakhsh.“On behalf of our

membership, we offer heartfelt condolences to the individual’s

family and loved ones.”The 55-year-old Zechmann

is understood to have retired in 2014 and settled in Dubai. Among his former players are Austrian Marcus Brier. He is survived by his wife Elinor and three sons.

American Beth Allen, who is assured of winning the Order of Merit this week, said: “I 100 percent agree with the decision that was made out of respect for him and his family.”

Round one play will resume on Thursday and the tournament will now be played over 54 holes. (AFP)

Tournament Director Michael Wood consols Anne-Lise Caudal after her caddie, Maximilian Zechmann, collapsed and died

France name Noah as Fed Cup captain

Barcelona’s Arda Turan (L) celebrates with Lionel Messi

Novak Djokovic

Paris

Yannick Noah was named captain of France’s Fed

Cup team for the second time yesterday, just five days after having his contract as Davis Cup skipper extended by a year.

The 56-year-old former French Open champion takes over the national women’s team from Amelie Mauresmo who held the job from 2013 to 2016. Mauresmo stepped down last month after revealing she was pregnant, a day after the team lost in the final.

LondonFiery heavyweight Dereck Chisora landed himself in more trouble after he hurled a table at his opponent dur-ing a press conference to promote Saturday’s title fight with Dillian Whyte.

SPORTS

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2424 Thursday, December 8, 2016

P23 Barcelona cruise

Hanoi

Vietnam and Indonesia drew 2-2 after extra time

at the second leg of the Suzuki Cup semi-finals yesterday, ensuring the Garuda a spot in the final after a hard-fought battle against the Golden Stars.

Indonesia’s top striker Stefano Lilipaly drew first blood in the 54th minute after a first half that saw no goals at Hanoi’s My Dinh stadium packed with a raucous crowd splashed with red and yellow.

The goal kicked off an action-packed second half after Vietnamese goalkeeper Tran Nguyen Manh was given a red card in the 76th minute.

Having already used its substitutions, Vietnam’s Manh handed his gloves to defender Que Ngoc Hai to step in for him.

With only 10 players on the pitch, the home team scored twice – including a shock goal by Vu Minh Tuan in injury time at the end of the second

half, drawing electric cheers from fans across the city.

Vietnam’s Vu Van Thanh scored earlier in the 83rd minute.

But Indonesia’s Manahati Lestusen scored a fateful goal in a penalty kick in extra time, clinching a spot in the AFF’s final against Thailand or Myanmar on December 14.

Even as some 40,000 fans started to file out of My Dinh stadium, dedicated crowds chanted “Vietnam” despite the heartbreak. (AFP)

Indonesia advance

Vietnam’s player Nguyen Van Quyet (L) fights for the ball with Indonesia’s Stefano JanjteLiliPaly