Riyadh

Two Saudis were among a mainly Qatari hunting

party freed after a 16-month h o s t a g e ordeal in I r a q , S a u d i m e d i a r e p o r t e d yesterday.

The 26

hunters, initially believed to be all Qataris, were flown to Doha on Friday after being handed over to Iraqi authorities. Jeddah-based newspaper Okaz named the two Saudis as Salem bin Abdulhadi al-Merri and Mohammed Abdullah al-Merri and said they were expected to be flown home to

t h e Kingdom. The

Saudi Press Agency also began referring to the hunting party as “Qatari and Saudi” yesterday but did not give further details. A foreign ministry spokesman was not immediately reachable for comment. The hunting party, who are believed to have included one or more prominent members of the Qatari royal family, were

kidnapped in southern Iraq in December 2015. There was never any formal claim of responsibility but the abduction was widely linked to Shiite militias with ties to Tehran.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain welcomed “the release of the Qatari and Saudi nationals kidnapped

in Iraq, expressing sincere congratulations to Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the families of the released.” The Ministry said it highly appreciated the great and successful efforts exerted by Qatar that led to the release of the Qatari and Saudi nationals and their return to their country and their families in good health.

www.newsofbahrain.com www.facebook.com/nobonline newsofbahrain 38444680 nob_bh

200 FilsSunday, April 23, 2017 Issue No. 7360

Nibali leads8P 22

Saudis among hunters freed

@realDonaldTrump

Today on Earth Day, we celebrate our beautiful for-ests, lakes and land. We stand committed to pre-serving the natural beauty of our nation.

Today’s WeatherMax Min

34°C 23°C

Bahrain backs Palestine

Ban haircare products: MP

DT News NetworkManama

Bahrain has supported the Palestinian people’s

cause reiterating just and comprehensive peace in the region remains directly linked to the Palestinian people’s re-establishment of their legitimate rights.

Jamal Faris Al Ruwei, Bahrain’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, told the Security Council during an open discussion on situation in the Middle East that the Kingdom favoured establishing an independent state on June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital end ing the Israeli occupation of all the Palestinian lands and settlement activities.

DT News Networknews@dt.bh

Manama

A parliamentarian has called for banning the

import of certain shampoos and haircare products as recent studies proved that some of them cause birth defects.

MP Khalifa Al Ghanim submitted the proposal to Industry, Commerce and Tourism and Health ministries to ban some of the hair colour shampoos and hairsprays from the market.

Al Ghanim, who’s also the deputy chairman of the council’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security, stressed that

the proposal is aimed at protecting new-borns from birth defects.

“French scientists have in a recent study proved that there’s a link between chemical substances in some haircare products and a medical condition of male foetuses, resulting in birth defects. The use of these sprays and shampoos cause hypospadias, a congenital condition in males. This condition has noticeably increased among male new-borns in Bahrain lately,” the MP said in a letter attached to his proposal.

“Some of the assumptions suggest that these substances affect male foetuses in the first three months of

pregnancy, which is a very delicate stage. Around 1 out of every 250 males has this condition, which has negative emotional and physical effects on them. Many surgeries are annually conducted to correct this defect,” he explained.

Al Ghanim added that the recent studies support previous studies that proved that hypospadias among foetuses is double in the cases of women working in hairdressing fields.

Basing on “prevention is better than cure”, Al Ghanim demanded banning the import of all haircare and colouring products that are suspected to contain harmful substances.

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, hit a new personal record in triathlon competitions after posting a time of 04:57 minutes in the Challenge Mogan-Gran Canaria, which featured an elite group of 500 European athletes. 8P 20

Sunday, April 23, 20172

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Over 100killed, wounded Mazar-i-Sharif

More than 100 Afghan soldiers were killed and

wounded in a Taliban attack on an army base in northern Afghanistan, the defence ministry said yesterday, the latest in a string of deadly assaults against Afghan military sites.

The ministry did not give a breakdown of the casualties in the hours-long attack near Mazar-i-Sharif city on Friday. The US military has said that “more than 50” Afghan soldiers were killed, while an Afghan army source who was on the base at the time put the death toll as high as 150, with dozens more wounded.

“They entered the compound using two army trucks with machine guns on top of them. They opened fire on everyone. And then they entered the mosque and dining room, killing everyone indiscriminately,” Mohammad Hussain, an army officer wounded in the attack, said as he was treated in hospital. 

Two of the attackers blew themselves up in the raid, which was claimed by the Taliban late Friday and which underscores rising insecurity as Afghanistan braces for an intense spring fighting season.

All were dressed in Afghan army uniforms, the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity and adding that no civilians were killed.

“Three months ago I sent my son to the army, I have not seen him since then. And today, they give me his remains,” one grieving father said.

Noorullah, a second officer injured in the attack, speculated the militants may have had “inside help”, noting they had to pass through at least seven checkposts before entering the compound.

The defence ministry said Afghan forces had killed all the

attackers, without specifying how many there were. Earlier it had said one of the assailants had been detained.

The military source at the base said there were at least 10 attackers, adding that the soldiers were “young recruits who had come for training”.

“I was in a room close to the mosque, their leader came in and shouted ‘aim for their heads’. I jumped out of the window, my friends were killed,” one 19-year-old soldier, Mohammad Qurban, said from hospital where he was being treated for hand and stomach injuries.

The toll could change, the defence ministry said in a statement. Afghan officials have been known to minimise casualty figures in some major attacks on military sites, such as in early March when gunmen disguised as doctors stormed the country’s largest military hospital in Kabul, killing dozens.

Officials put the death toll in that attack at 50, but security sources and survivors said more than 100 were killed in the brazen and savage assault.

Military targetsAfghan President Ashraf Ghani flew to Mazar-i-Sharif on Saturday to pay a “courtesy visit” to wounded soldiers, his office said, while General John Nicholson, the top US commander in Afghanistan, praised Afghan commandos for bringing the “atrocity to an end”.

Afghan security forces have been struggling to beat back insurgents since US-led NATO troops ended their combat mission in December 2014.

According to US watchdog SIGAR, casualties among Afghan security forces soared by 35 percent in 2016, with 6,800 soldiers and police killed.

The attack on the Kabul

hospital in March came a week after 16 people were killed in simultaneous Taliban suicide assaults on two security compounds in the capital.

More than a third of Afghanistan is outside government control and many regions are fiercely contested by various insurgent groups, as Kabul’s repeated bids to launch peace negotiations with the Taliban have failed.

The US has around 8,400 troops in the country with about another 5,000 from NATO allies assisting a much larger Afghan force in the war against the Taliban and other Islamist militants

Earlier this month the US military dropped its largest non-nuclear bomb on Islamic State group hideouts in eastern Afghanistan, killing nearly a hundred militants, according to unverified figures from Afghan officials.

The attack triggered global shockwaves, with some condemning the use of Afghanistan as what they called a testing ground for the weapon, and against a militant group that is not considered as big a threat as the T a l i b a n . (AFP)

Afghan military base attack

an Afghan security official stands alert near the site of attack

Afghan security personnel arrive at the attack site

Sunday, April 23, 20172

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Over 100killed, wounded Mazar-i-Sharif

More than 100 Afghan soldiers were killed and

wounded in a Taliban attack on an army base in northern Afghanistan, the defence ministry said yesterday, the latest in a string of deadly assaults against Afghan military sites.

The ministry did not give a breakdown of the casualties in the hours-long attack near Mazar-i-Sharif city on Friday. The US military has said that “more than 50” Afghan soldiers were killed, while an Afghan army source who was on the base at the time put the death toll as high as 150, with dozens more wounded.

“They entered the compound using two army trucks with machine guns on top of them. They opened fire on everyone. And then they entered the mosque and dining room, killing everyone indiscriminately,” Mohammad Hussain, an army officer wounded in the attack, said as he was treated in hospital. 

Two of the attackers blew themselves up in the raid, which was claimed by the Taliban late Friday and which underscores rising insecurity as Afghanistan braces for an intense spring fighting season.

All were dressed in Afghan army uniforms, the source said, speaking on condition of anonymity and adding that no civilians were killed.

“Three months ago I sent my son to the army, I have not seen him since then. And today, they give me his remains,” one grieving father said.

Noorullah, a second officer injured in the attack, speculated the militants may have had “inside help”, noting they had to pass through at least seven checkposts before entering the compound.

The defence ministry said Afghan forces had killed all the

attackers, without specifying how many there were. Earlier it had said one of the assailants had been detained.

The military source at the base said there were at least 10 attackers, adding that the soldiers were “young recruits who had come for training”.

“I was in a room close to the mosque, their leader came in and shouted ‘aim for their heads’. I jumped out of the window, my friends were killed,” one 19-year-old soldier, Mohammad Qurban, said from hospital where he was being treated for hand and stomach injuries.

The toll could change, the defence ministry said in a statement. Afghan officials have been known to minimise casualty figures in some major attacks on military sites, such as in early March when gunmen disguised as doctors stormed the country’s largest military hospital in Kabul, killing dozens.

Officials put the death toll in that attack at 50, but security sources and survivors said more than 100 were killed in the brazen and savage assault.

Military targetsAfghan President Ashraf Ghani flew to Mazar-i-Sharif on Saturday to pay a “courtesy visit” to wounded soldiers, his office said, while General John Nicholson, the top US commander in Afghanistan, praised Afghan commandos for bringing the “atrocity to an end”.

Afghan security forces have been struggling to beat back insurgents since US-led NATO troops ended their combat mission in December 2014.

According to US watchdog SIGAR, casualties among Afghan security forces soared by 35 percent in 2016, with 6,800 soldiers and police killed.

The attack on the Kabul

hospital in March came a week after 16 people were killed in simultaneous Taliban suicide assaults on two security compounds in the capital.

More than a third of Afghanistan is outside government control and many regions are fiercely contested by various insurgent groups, as Kabul’s repeated bids to launch peace negotiations with the Taliban have failed.

The US has around 8,400 troops in the country with about another 5,000 from NATO allies assisting a much larger Afghan force in the war against the Taliban and other Islamist militants

Earlier this month the US military dropped its largest non-nuclear bomb on Islamic State group hideouts in eastern Afghanistan, killing nearly a hundred militants, according to unverified figures from Afghan officials.

The attack triggered global shockwaves, with some condemning the use of Afghanistan as what they called a testing ground for the weapon, and against a militant group that is not considered as big a threat as the T a l i b a n . (AFP)

Afghan military base attack

an Afghan security official stands alert near the site of attack

Afghan security personnel arrive at the attack site

3Sunday, April 23, 2017

Bahrain is second healthiest countryMohammed Zafran/DTNNzafran@dt.bh

Manama

Bahrain has been ranked the second healthiest country

in the GCC region in the 2017 edition of the Bloomberg Healthiest Country Index.

Lebanon took the top spot in the Arab world ranking 32 while GCC countries Qatar, Oman as well as the UAE also featured in the top 50.

According to the index, Bahrain received a health grade of 68.73 and a health score of 74.20 while being ranked 40th. Qatar ranked 36, UAE 43rd and Oman 48 in the index. Lebanon was ranked the highest among Arab countries in both the health score as well as the health grade, scoring 74.03 and 79.55, respectively.

“Each country in the index was graded based on variables such as life expectancy, causes of

death and health risks ranging from high blood pressure and tobacco use to malnutrition and the availability of clean water,” researchers stated.

Globally Italy was ranked No1 in the index which included 163 nations. Researchers noted that the Italian diet rich in vegetables and nutritious

fats are what made Italy the healthiest country in the world. “While Italy is among the most developed countries, growth has stagnated for decades, almost 40 per cent of its youngsters are out of jobs and it’s saddled with one of the world’s highest debt loads relative to the size

of its economy. Yet, Italians are in a way in better shape than Americans. Canadians and Brits suffer from higher blood pressure and cholesterol and poorer mental health,” Bloomberg stated.

Iceland, Switzerland, Singapore and Australia rounded out the top five most-healthy countries in the index.

Thai Premier to visit BahrainDT News NetworkManama

General Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister

of Thailand, will pay an official visit to Bahrain from April 24–26, 2017. The Prime Minister will be accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Commerce, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Minister of Public Health, and the Secretary – General of the Board of Investment of Thailand, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand said.

The Prime Minister’s first visit to the Middle East marks the auspicious occasion of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Bahrain.

The purpose of the visit is to further strengthen the cordial relations between the two Kingdoms and to enhance cooperation in key areas such as politics, economics, public health, and social cooperation, as well as to exchange views on regional issues.

During the visit, the Prime Minister of Thailand will have an audience with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and a bilateral meeting with His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Prime Minister of Bahrain. The two prime ministers will also witness the signing ceremony of three documents namely:

(1) the Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture of the Kingdom of Bahrain on Agriculture Cooperation,

(2) the Protocol amending the Convention between the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income, and

(3) the Memorandum of Understanding between Prince of Songkla University and University of Bahrain.

Bahrain received a health grade of 68.73 and a health score of

74.20 while being ranked 40th.

Qatar ranked 36, UAE 43rd and

Oman 48

Lebanon ranked highest among Arab countries in both health score as well as health grade scoring 74.03 and 79.55, respectively

Sunday, April 23, 20174

Youth forum concludes

Harpreet Kaur/DTNNreporter@dt.bh

Manama

The inaugural youth forum organised by

AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation to promote leadership, entrepreneurship and volunteerism among youth, concluded at the Gulf International Convention Centre yesterday.

The forum was held under the patronage of the Prime Minister His Royal Highness Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa. The event was

attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Youth and Sports, Hisham bin Mohammed Al Jowder, writer and businessman from Saudi Arabia Khaled Al Khudair, and media and social activist from the UAE Khalid Al Ameri.

The Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa along with Chairperson of AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, Shaikha Zain bint Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, also felicitated the event sponsors, main sponsors and

other social media influencers at the event.

“There is so much talent in the country. And, in forums like these future leaders emerge.

I commend AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation for their work and I urge them to come up with more forums like these to benefit the younger generation,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shaikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, who spoke about the importance of leadership, said.

Chairperson of AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation, Shaikha Zain bint Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa thanked the contributors and volunteers who spent time and effort to organise the forum and contributed towards

providing a useful educational experience for students and the youth.

“Our foundation’s vision is focused on achieving the desired excellence to become an active member of the society and

make opportunities available that are aimed at investing in the potential of Bahraini youth and achieve all their ambitions at academic and professional levels. With forums like these we are creating platform for the younger generation to be future leaders,” Shaikha Zain said.

The forum featured success stories, held discussion sessions and workshops to provide an engaging experience for young people and provided them with an opportunity to communicate wi th inspirat ional models.

The forum featured success

stories, held discussion

sessions and workshops

Abu Gazal Garden cleanedMohammed Zafran/DTNNzafran@dt.bh

Manama

The issue of water logging and foul odour at a public

park in Zinj has been solved, authorities informed yesterday.

A water pipe leakage had caused a stench at Abu Gazal Garden to the annoyance of park visitors on Friday. However, the authorities were quick to solve the issue as the water was drained off in the morning yesterday. The odour was caused by unclean water which was logging at the play area of the park. According to visitors, this did not stop children from playing there.

“The water covered a significant area of the play area. Some children still went to play there. I was with my daughter at the time but we returned after seeing the condition of the park,” said Muraleedaran, who visited the park on Friday evening.

Head of Parks and Gardens Directorate at the Capital Municipal Council Ahmed Showaiter confirmed to DT News that the issue has been solved.

“We have seen similar incidents there in the past and each time we have solved the issue,” he said. He revealed that the issue was caused by a

nearby restaurant. “We have written to the restaurant and they have agreed to comply with our guidelines.

Park visitors said yesterday that the stench was not noticeable yesterday. “I am not aware about the clogging issue

as I do not come here often and I have only come today after a long time. I have not noticed any sort of a stench and obviously there has not been any water logging issues today,” said Ismael who visited the park yesterday.

The park after it was cleaned yesterday

Ministers and other dignitaries during the youth forum organised by AlMabarrah AlKhalifia Foundation at Gulf International Convention Centre yesterday

Shaikha Zain

5Sunday, April 23, 2017

Last year, a British woman named Nicola Thorpe was sent home from work for not wearing high heels. Her subsequent petition to change the law, which was denied by the UK government last

week, nevertheless has drawn attention to dress codes and sexism. Although dress codes apply to both genders and are found everywhere from the workplace and schools to religious buildings and cultural events, they disproportionately affect women and furthermore, present a the message that women must dress for men.

School dress codes seem to overwhelmingly target girls. In the United States, girls are sent home or told to cover up for wearing skirts that are “too short,” shirts that show their midriff, tank tops and other items. They are punished for wearing anything that the school deems is revealing and therefore too distracting to their male classmates, who are unable to concentrate on their studies.

Flash forward to when these girls become women and enter the workforce. Some workplace dress codes are simply practical: after all, it would be difficult to do construction work in a dress and sandals. Yet many workplaces force women to dress a certain way that is not intrinsic to their work. Restaurants, for example, often require female staff, especially hostesses, to wear short, tight dresses, heels and makeup. Office dress codes may also require heels and makeup, even if the employee does not have a visible role with clients.

While school dress codes aim to prevent young girls from dressing provocatively, workplace dress codes appear to do the opposite. They actively enforce women to dress in a way that fits the male gaze. No woman standing for hours on her feet in a restaurant should be forced to wear heels: it is uncomfortable and unnecessary. And why cant she do her job the same in pants? If the wait staff doesn’t have to wear makeup, why does the hostess? As for the woman sitting at her desk: do heels help her think well? Why can’t a pair of flats be just as formal as heels?

Schools and businesses have every right to enact dress codes to create appropriate, safe environments. Yet dress codes seem designed to tell women what to wear based on men’s opinions. A t-shirt with profanity on it will disturb everyone; a man wearing shorts to the office will look silly to everyone. But a tank top at school or a woman going makeup less isn’t going to bother other girls or women: it will only bother men. We need to actively stop forcing women to dress for men’s preferences.

Meredith Ann O’Connell

Women and the World

Dress Codes and the Messages they convey

(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.)

DT News Networknews@dt.bh

Bahrain will host the meetings of the Economic

Committee in the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Bahraini MP and APA Deputy Speaker Abbas

Al Madhi confirmed that the meetings will see the participation of 96 members from 21 member countries of the assembly.

Commenting on the meeting, Al Madhi explained that the event will help enhance Bahrain’s ability to manage

parliamentary affairs at the Asian level.

This, according to him, will also enhance the trust given to the Kingdom by the APA members to chair the Economic Committee and to the position of Vice-President of the assembly.

Bahrain to host APA meetings

BIA hits another record

Manama

Record number of passengers arrived in Bahrain for this year’s Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain

Grand Prix, said Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), in a statement, yesterday.

As per the estimates released, a total of 15,041 passengers arrived in Bahrain this year, which is a 16 per cent jump from prior year estimate of over 13,000 passengers.

Commenting, Bahrain Airport Company Chief Commercial Officer, Ayman Zainal said, “This was another great year for Formula One racing in Bahrain. The streamlined processes we have put in place have proven that the airport is capable of handling all the requirements of such large-scale events.”

With over 500 million viewers tuning in from all over the globe, and another 100,000 fans attending the annual race, the Formula One event has served to place Bahrain at the forefront of Grand Prix racing, adding growth to its tourism sector, and bolstering its economy in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.

visitor arrivals recorded at over 15,000F1

5Sunday, April 23, 2017

Last year, a British woman named Nicola Thorpe was sent home from work for not wearing high heels. Her subsequent petition to change the law, which was denied by the UK government last

week, nevertheless has drawn attention to dress codes and sexism. Although dress codes apply to both genders and are found everywhere from the workplace and schools to religious buildings and cultural events, they disproportionately affect women and furthermore, present a the message that women must dress for men.

School dress codes seem to overwhelmingly target girls. In the United States, girls are sent home or told to cover up for wearing skirts that are “too short,” shirts that show their midriff, tank tops and other items. They are punished for wearing anything that the school deems is revealing and therefore too distracting to their male classmates, who are unable to concentrate on their studies.

Flash forward to when these girls become women and enter the workforce. Some workplace dress codes are simply practical: after all, it would be difficult to do construction work in a dress and sandals. Yet many workplaces force women to dress a certain way that is not intrinsic to their work. Restaurants, for example, often require female staff, especially hostesses, to wear short, tight dresses, heels and makeup. Office dress codes may also require heels and makeup, even if the employee does not have a visible role with clients.

While school dress codes aim to prevent young girls from dressing provocatively, workplace dress codes appear to do the opposite. They actively enforce women to dress in a way that fits the male gaze. No woman standing for hours on her feet in a restaurant should be forced to wear heels: it is uncomfortable and unnecessary. And why cant she do her job the same in pants? If the wait staff doesn’t have to wear makeup, why does the hostess? As for the woman sitting at her desk: do heels help her think well? Why can’t a pair of flats be just as formal as heels?

Schools and businesses have every right to enact dress codes to create appropriate, safe environments. Yet dress codes seem designed to tell women what to wear based on men’s opinions. A t-shirt with profanity on it will disturb everyone; a man wearing shorts to the office will look silly to everyone. But a tank top at school or a woman going makeup less isn’t going to bother other girls or women: it will only bother men. We need to actively stop forcing women to dress for men’s preferences.

Meredith Ann O’Connell

Women and the World

Dress Codes and the Messages they convey

(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.)

DT News Networknews@dt.bh

Bahrain will host the meetings of the Economic

Committee in the Asian Parliamentary Assembly (APA) on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Bahraini MP and APA Deputy Speaker Abbas

Al Madhi confirmed that the meetings will see the participation of 96 members from 21 member countries of the assembly.

Commenting on the meeting, Al Madhi explained that the event will help enhance Bahrain’s ability to manage

parliamentary affairs at the Asian level.

This, according to him, will also enhance the trust given to the Kingdom by the APA members to chair the Economic Committee and to the position of Vice-President of the assembly.

Bahrain to host APA meetings

BIA hits another record

Manama

Record number of passengers arrived in Bahrain for this year’s Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain

Grand Prix, said Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the operator and managing body of Bahrain International Airport (BIA), in a statement, yesterday.

As per the estimates released, a total of 15,041 passengers arrived in Bahrain this year, which is a 16 per cent jump from prior year estimate of over 13,000 passengers.

Commenting, Bahrain Airport Company Chief Commercial Officer, Ayman Zainal said, “This was another great year for Formula One racing in Bahrain. The streamlined processes we have put in place have proven that the airport is capable of handling all the requirements of such large-scale events.”

With over 500 million viewers tuning in from all over the globe, and another 100,000 fans attending the annual race, the Formula One event has served to place Bahrain at the forefront of Grand Prix racing, adding growth to its tourism sector, and bolstering its economy in line with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision.

visitor arrivals recorded at over 15,000F1

Mumbai

Turning BRAVE into one of the top championships

around the globe is the main goal of the Bahrain Martial Arts Federation (BMMAF), said His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, yesterday

Shaikh Khalid, the First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth, Honourary President of BMMAF, and founder of the Khalid Bin Hamad Mixed Martial Arts (KHK MMA) was receiving top personalities in the field of business, sports in India at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai, India.

Shaikh Khalid is in India to take part in the fifth edition of the BRAVE championship, which is also the third held on a global basis. 

“Today we are in India, to follow up and watch the march of the fifth edition championship and the third held all around the world. We look forward to achieving the main goal of turning BRAVE into the number one championship at the level of this sport,” he said. 

Thanking His Highness Shaikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalifa for his effort in making BRAVE a huge success, Shaikh Khalid said:  “We presented the BRAVE Combat Federation Championship project, and succeeded in making the project see the light and become a reality, thanks to the support of the wise leadership and HH Shaikh Nasser,

the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport Chairman, Bahrain Olympic Committee President and Royal Charity Organisation Chairman .”

“This support has enabled the championship to place its mark successfully since its launch in Bahrain last September, and it achieved the goals that we set to attract MMA stars and professionals from around the world,” he added.  

Earlier, on his arrival, His Highness was received by Issa

Al Thawadi, Consul General of Bahrain in the City of Mumbai, Farhat Jamal, Vice President of Taj Mahal Group, Talgender Singh, General Manager of the Taj Mahal Group and Dharmi Majdani, Regional Director of Indian Economic Development Board.

Shaikh Khalid conveyed the greetings of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to India and its leadership and said that Bahrain’s relations with India are important.

Sunday, April 23, 20176

Shaikh Khalid meets top biz

and sports persons in India

Brave aims big

Shaikh Khalid during a reception in India held as part of the BRAVE champi-onship

Sunday, April 23, 2017 7

As at 1 January 2017 11,025,000 (94,726) 5,512,500 2,190,079 31,206,911 2,273,944 29,282,547 1,310,097 82,706,352Profit for the period - - - - - - 720,436 - 720,436 Other comprehensive loss for the period - - - - - (98,194) - - (98,194)

Total comprehensive (loss) income for the period - - - - - (98,194) 720,436 - 622,242 Dividend declared - - - - - - - (1,310,097) (1,310,097)

As at 31 March 2017 (reviewed) 11,025,000 (94,726) 5,512,500 2,190,079 31,206,911 2,175,750 30,002,983 - 82,018,497

As at 1 January 2016 11,025,000 (94,726) 5,512,500 2,190,079 35,604,343 2,426,752 27,079,711 1,310,097 85,053,756 Profit for the period - - - - - - 1,122,829 - 1,122,829 Other comprehensive loss for the period - - - - - (118,911) - - (118,911)

Total comprehensive (loss) income for the period - - - - - (118,911) 1,122,829 - 1,003,918 Dividend declared - - - - - - - (1,310,097) (1,310,097)

As at 31 March 2016 (reviewed) 11,025,000 (94,726) 5,512,500 2,190,079 35,604,343 2,307,841 28,202,540 - 84,747,577

Available- for-sale Share Treasury Statutory General Revaluation investments Retained Proposed capital shares reserve reserve reserve reserve earnings dividend Total BD BD BD BD BD BD BD BD

Available- for-sale Share Treasury Statutory General Revaluation investments Retained Proposed capital shares reserve reserve reserve reserve earnings dividend Total BD BD BD BD BD BD BD BD

INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY INTERIM STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (CONTINUED)For the three months ended 31 March 2017 (Reviewed) For the three months ended 31 March 2017 (Reviewed)

Faisal Ahmed Al Zayani (Chairman ) Ayad Abdulla Ahmed Al Sumait (Vice Chairman and Managing Director) A. Rahman A. Morshed (CEO)

OPERATING ACTIVITIES Profit for the period 720,436 1,122,829 Adjustments for: Depreciation 509,935 501,019 Share of profit from an associate (471,974) (535,086) Net changes in cumulative fair value of held-for-trading investments (1,776) 3,813 Dividend income (105,649) (92,036) Interest on term deposits (45,397) (8,456) Provision for employees’ end of service benefits 16,755 26,276

Operating profit before working capital changes 622,330 1,018,359

Working capital changes: Inventories 14,718 (13,034) Trade and other receivables (104,002) (198,562) Trade and other payables 255,142 104,494

Cash flows from operations 788,188 911,257

Employees’ end of service benefits paid (4,059) (2,880)Directors’ remuneration paid (25,000) (25,000)

Net cash flows from operating activities 759,129 883,377 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of property, plant and equipment (68,049) (79,304)Dividends received from an associate 1,100,000 1,000,000 Other dividends received 105,649 92,036 Interest received 45,397 8,456

Net cash flows from investing activities 1,182,997 1,021,188 FINANCING ACTIVITY Repayments of term loan (621,609) (621,609)and cash flow used in financing activity INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 1,320,517 1,282,956

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 4,581,621 6,040,512

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT 31 MARCH 5,902,138 7,323,468

2017Reviewed

BD

2016Reviewed

BD

INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For the three months ended 31 March 2017 (Reviewed)

Profit for the period 720,436 1,122,829

Other comprehensive loss Other comprehensive loss to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods: Net movement in fair values of available-for-sale investments during the period (92,037) (76,722)

Share in associate’s cumulative changes in fair values (6,157) (42,189)Other comprehensive loss for the period (98,194) (118,911)Total comprehensive income for the period 622,242 1,003,918

INTERIM STATEMENT OF OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

INTERIM STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSSINTERIM STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

2017Reviewed

BD

2016Reviewed

BD

For the three months ended 31 March 2017 (Reviewed)

For the three months ended 31 March 2017 (Reviewed)At 31 March 2017 (Reviewed)

Gross operating revenue 1,892,817 2,407,324 Gross operating costs (1,153,757) (1,252,003)

GROSS OPERATING PROFIT 739,060 1,155,321

Net investment income: Share of profit from an associate 471,974 535,086 Dividend income 105,649 92,036 Interest income 45,397 8,456 Net changes in cumulative fair value of held-for-trading investments 1,776 (3,813) 624,796 631,765 Miscellaneous income 64,963 62,614 Depreciation (509,935) (501,019)General and administration expenses (162,609) (167,098)Financial charges (35,839) (58,754)

PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD 720,436 1,122,829 BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE (in fils) 7 10

2017Reviewed

BD

2016Reviewed

BD

ASSETS Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment 70,377,596 70,818,396Investment in an associate 6,936,902 7,571,085Available-for-sale investments 4,765,099 4,857,136Total non-current assets 82,079,597 83,246,617

Current assets Inventories 66,485 81,203Held-for-trading investments 42,702 40,926Trade and other receivables 683,094 579,092Bank balances and cash 6,129,523 4,815,631 Total current assets 6,921,804 5,516,852

TOTAL ASSETS 89,001,401 88,763,469

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Equity Share capital 11,025,000 11,025,000Treasury shares (94,726) (94,726)Statutory reserve 5,512,500 5,512,500General reserve 2,190,079 2,190,079Revaluation reserve 31,206,911 31,206,911Available-for-sale investments reserve 2,175,750 2,273,944Retained earnings 30,002,983 29,282,547Proposed dividend - 1,310,097Total equity 82,018,497 82,706,352Non-current liabilities Employees’ end of service benefits 428,072 415,376Term loan 621,606 1,243,215 Total non-current liabilities 1,049,678 1,658,591Current liabilities Trade and other payables 3,446,790 1,912,090Current portion of term loan 2,486,436 2,486,436Total current liabilities 5,933,226 4,398,526Total liabilities 6,982,904 6,057,117TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 89,001,401 88,763,469

31 March 2017

Reviewed BD

31 December 2016

AuditedBD

INTERIM CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 31 MARCH 2017 (REVIEWED)

Riyadh

Saudi Arabia yesterday named an air force pilot son of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Custodian of the Two Holy

Mosques, as ambassador to its major ally Washington. “Prince Abdullah bin Faysal bin Turki removed as ambassador

to the US. Prince Khaled bin Salman bin Abdulaziz appointed the ambassador,” the official Saudi Press Agency reported, citing a royal order. Prince Abdullah had served in the post for just over a year, according to the website of the Saudi embassy in Washington.

Prince Khaled, the new ambassador, is an air force pilot who flew missions as part of the Saudi contribution to the anti-IS coalition, said Salman al-Ansari, the president of the Saudi American Public Relation Affairs Committee (SAPRAC).

Several other Cabinet reshuffles and appointments were also announced in the set of new decrees issued on Saturday night, according to Saudi Gazette.

As per the decrees, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman was named the kingdom’s new minister of state for energy affairs. Adel Al-Toraifi was relieved from his position as Saudi information and culture minister with Dr Awwad al-Awwad announced to replace him.

Prince Abdullah bin Musaed has also been removed from his position at Saudi Arabia’s Sports Authority as Mohammed Abdelmalek al-Shaikh replaces him.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of State for Civil Service Khaled Al Araj was removed from his post and set to be investigated.

On the military front, Prince Fahd bin Turki was appointed as commander of Saudi Arabia’s ground forces. Two months salary bonus announced for forces fighting in Yemen. (Agencies)

Saudi names new US envoy

Doha

US Defence Secretary Jim Mattis met Qatar’s emir

yesterday during a visit to the oil-rich Gulf state, home to the largest US air base in the Middle East.

The visit to Doha is part of a regional tour that has included stops in Saudi Arabia,

Egypt and Israel. Mattis is scheduled to visit Djibouti today.

The Pentagon chief’s meeting with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani aimed to “reinforce relationships” between the two countries, Mattis said.

“Relationships get better or

weaker, and I’m committed to making it better from our side,” Mattis told the Qatari leader.

Their talks were expected to focus on the fight against the Islamic State group, the conflict in Syria and the regional role of Iran, which Mattis has described as

“destabilising”.Mattis was also due to hold

talks with Defence Minister Khaled al-Attiya.

A small but strategic state in the Gulf, Qatar plays a key role in regional politics.

It is home to the Al-Udeid air base which houses around 10,000 US troops. (AFP)

US defence secretary visits Qatar

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (R-2) welcomes US Defence Secretary James Mattis (L-4)

BUSINESS8 Sunday, April 23, 2017

Bahrain Bourse (BHB) and GFH Financial Group signed on Thursday an agreement to assign Bahrain Bourse as a Share Registrar for the shares of the group. The agreement was signed by the Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Bourse, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa, and Hisham Alrayes, the Chief Executive Officer of GFH Financial Group.

Washington

The Group of 20 major economies sent a message

Friday on the threat that rising protectionism poses to the global economy, but the United States cast doubt over its adherence to that stance.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin reiterated the Trump administration’s emphasis on defending America against what it sees as unfair trade practices, and called on the IMF to do more in its watchdog role. 

His comments came just hours after a meeting of G20 finance ministers in Washington which saw Germany’s Wolfgang Schaeuble say there was “broad agreement” that “free trade is better for global growth.” 

“There was a broad c o n s e n s u s ” t h a t “protectionism would be damaging to the global economy and the concerned economies as well,” the German minister, whose country holds the rotating G20 presidency, told reporters.

That seemed to mark a striking change of tone since the last finance ministers meeting in Germany, one month ago, when the United States prevented the G20 from including a traditional pledge

against protectionism in its final communique, calling the language “irrelevant.”

It was unclear how far the renewed “consensus” extended. The group did not release a communique this time, and Mnuchin’s statement appeared to weaken Schaeuble’s declaration of unity.

Rising protectionist and anti-globalization sentiment in key economies has created a tense atmosphere at the normally placid and formulaic gathering of finance ministers, where the G20 officials met ahead of a semi-annual meeting Saturday of the International Monetary Fund.

Concerns have been fuelled by President Donald Trump’s threats to impose tariffs on countries that have trade surpluses with the United States, by the British decision to leave the European Union, and anti-internationalist rhetoric by some candidates in the French presidential election campaign.

In a short but tough statement, Mnuchin said the United States “will continue to promote an expansion of trade with those partners committed to market-based competition, while more rigorously defending ourselves against unfair trade practices.”

Trump officials have directed some of their most aggressive language at Germany and China. Mnuchin said “excessively large trade surpluses... are not conducive to supporting a free and fair trading system.”

“Countries with large external surpluses and sound public finances have a particular responsibility for contributing to a more robust global economy by deploying fiscal policy aggressively to boost growth and help facilitate global rebalancing,” he said.

He said the IMF should to do more to monitor these countries and “identify

specific policy adjustments” they should implement.

Make growth more ‘inclusive’The IMF has flagged rising protectionism and possible trade wars as a threat to the global economic recovery, just when it is finally gaining momentum.

And German central bank chief Jens Weidmann said the G20 finance ministers “underlined the negative growth effects of raising barriers to trade.” 

“Almost everybody underscored the importance of (an) open market and free market access,” he said.

Schaeuble said the G20 ministers also agreed that economic growth must be made “more inclusive” in order to stem the rise of protectionism. 

On the issue of financial regulation, Weidmann said there was consensus about continuing reforms agreed previously and there were few fears about the risk of seeing erosion of the regulations implemented in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis.

The “debate about the regulatory ‘race to the bottom’ has disappeared” from G20 discussions, Weidmann said.

But there, too, US actions contrasted with that statement

as Trump on Friday signed an order directing Mnuchin to review the US financial regulations known as Dodd-Frank that were erected in the wake of the crisis.

“A significant amount of time has passed since the crisis. With the passage of time and with your leadership, we are now well-positioned to evaluate what works and what doesn’t,” Mnuchin said on Friday. 

“Where we can do so, we will lift the burden of excessive regulation to make sure that banks can lend, small businesses can borrow, and American workers can thrive,” he said. (AFP)

‘Protectionism’ damaging foreconomy: G20German Finance Minister

Wolfgang Schäuble

G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors pose for a family photo

BUSINESSSunday, April 23, 2017 9

New York

United Airlines said it no longer plans to name chief executive Oscar Munoz chairman. Munoz and the airline

were slammed with heavy criticism after a passenger was violently dragged off a United flight earlier this month. Under the previous plan, Munoz had been slated to assume the chairman’s role in 2018. But the company amended its contract with Munoz.

Washington

The ratings agency Fitch on Friday downgraded Italy’s long-term debt rating a notch to BBB, one level above the

“speculative” grade, citing the country’s persistent debt and fiscal problems. However Fitch said Italy’s outlook was stable. Italy has been unable to reduce its overall debt burden due to weak economic growth and a recurring failure to meet spending targets.

United CEO no longer to become chairman Fitch downgrades Italian debt rating It is urgent that we agree on a programme and that we conclude these discussions because it’s taking a toll on the Greek economy. There is no doubt about that, it’s serious”

Joyalukkas opens a world of choice in Al Ahsa

“We are delighted to open our doors once again in KSA. The loyalty and support that the people here have shown us through the years inspired us to open one more showroom in KSA with the enhanced jewellery shopping experience that we are known for. I am very excited to showcase a wider selection of world-class jewellery, more amazing offers and the award-winning customer service that people have come to expect from Joyalukkas,”

Joy Alukkas, Chairman and

Managing Director of Joyalukkas Group

About JoyalukkasJoyalukkas Group is a multi-billion dollar glob-al conglomerate, with varied business inter-ests. The group oper-ates its various business operations across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Singapore, Malaysia, London, USA and India. The group business-es include Jewellery, money exchange, fash-ion & textiles, luxury air charters, malls and real-ty. Joyalukkas employs over 8,000 professionals across the world and is one of the most awarded and recognised jewellery retail chains in the world.

Exclusive brandsThe Joyalukkas Al Ahsa, KSA showroom will show-case the exclusive brands of Joyalukkas, such as Veda Temple Jewellery, Pride Diamonds, Eleganza Polki Diamonds, Masaaki Pearls, Zenina Turkish Jewellery, Li’l Joy Kids Jewellery, the Apurva Antique collection Ratna Precious Stone Jewellery along with ethnic, special occasion and contemporary Jewellery.

@ LuLu HypermarketThe globally renowned jewellery retail chain will expand its presence in Saudi Arabia by open-ing its new showroom on 26th April, 2017 at LuLu Hypermarket, Al Ahsa, KSA. Many local dignitaries and VIP’s are expected to attend the grand opening ceremony planned by Joyalukkas.

Joyalukkas, world’s favourite jeweller, in it’s sparkling growth story, has reached another important milestone

OffersInaugural offers include free 2 gram gold coins

on purchase of Diamond, Polki and Pearl Jewellery

worth SR 5,000, free 1 gram gold coin on pur-

chase of Diamond, Polki and Pearl Jewellery worth SR3,000 and free quarter

gram gold coin on pur-chase of gold & precious Jewellery worth SR3,000. Making the opening even

more special will be the 0% deduction on Gold

Exchange.

The inaugural offer will be valid from 26th April till 4th May

Poul Thomsen, head of the IMF’s European

department

Russian trade sanctions to stayWashington

The US Treasury yesterday said it would not waive

trade sanctions for US companies seeking to resume oil drilling in Russia, including ExxonMobil.

The announcement followed media reports that Exxon had sought a waiver to resume a joint venture with Russia’s Rosneft oil company.

“In consultation with President Donald J Trump, the Treasury Department will not be issuing waivers to US companies, including Exxon, authorizing drilling prohibited by current Russian sanctions,” the Treasury Department said in a statement.

Having failed to win a waiver from the Obama administration in 2015, ExxonMobil began pressing the Treasury to grant an exemption in March, shortly after the company’s former CEO Rex Tillerson became secretary of state, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.

Tillerson, who while with ExxonMobil had forged close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin and with Rosneft, had recused himself from the decision. 

ExxonMobil has sought permission to drill in several areas that are currently off limits, including the Black Sea.

The Trump administration has extensive ties to the energy sector and has vowed to promote oil exploration and production, slash regulations and allow for more

development. In a statement, ExxonMobil said it understood the Trump administration’s decision but underscored its position that it was hamstrung.

“Our 2015 application for a license under the provisions outlined in the US sanctions was made to enable our company to meet its contractual obligations under a joint venture agreement in Russia, where competitor companies are authorized to undertake such work under European sanctions,” the statement said.

Internship programme

Manama

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa

yesterday said it offers internship programme allowing graduates to become a part of the hotel’s top management team and progress rapidly within the company.

The programme, according to the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, aims at preparing trainees in

various operational roles. The course includes a six-month internship in the hotel, which will be followed by internship at a well-known prestigious hospitality universities abroad to complete the senior management diploma.

The programme is overseen by Garfield Jones, Chief Executive Officer of the Gulf Hotels Group and Mahmoud

Abd El Monem, the Group Director of Human Resources and Development.

The statement also added that successful trainees are appointed as assistant managers in different sections of the hotel. Jassim Khalid Lori and Fatten Al Ansari are among the young Bahraini entrepreneurs enrolled in the programme.

Management Trainees pose for a family photo

ExxonMobil was pressing Treasury to grant an exemption

BUSINESS Sunday, April 23, 201710

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 0.4699 0.3732 0.3316

KUWAIT 0.2855 32.4614 0.2826 0.2511

OMAN 0.3849 0.3888 0.3810 0.3385

QATAR 3.6420 3.6791 3.6052 3.2032

UAE 3.6730 3.7105 3.6359 3.2304

SAUDI 3.7500 3.7883 3.7121 3.2982

AUSTRALIA 0.2955 0.2931BANGLADESH 0.004982 0.004733CANADA 0.2883 0.2852DENMARK 0.0579 EGYPT 0.0245 0.0215EURO 0.4132 0.4111HONGKONG 0.04983 0.04943INDIA 0.00582 0.00593INDONESIA 0.00002997 0.00002900IRAN TUMAN 0.000323 IRAQI DINAR 0.000311 JAPAN 0.00355 0.00348JORDAN 0.5346 0.5351KOREA 0.00038912 KUWAIT 1.244 1.244MALAYSIA 0.0879 0.0874NEW ZEALAND 0.0269 0.3270NORWAY 0.0463 NEPAL 0.00383329 0.00363790OMAN 0.97962 0.98262PAKISTAN 0.00365245 0.00359372PHILIPPINES 0.00776 0.00753QATAR 0.10381 0.10376SAUDI ARABIA 0.10058 0.10066SINGAPORE 0.2746 0.2726SOUTH AFRICA 0.0309 0.0308SRI LANKA 0.00272632 0.00248855SWEDISH 0.0457 SWITZERLAND 0.3868 0.3843SYRIA 0.00174 0.00174TAIWAN 0.0127 THAILAND 0.01114 0.01114TURKEY 0.10934 UNITED KINGDOM 0.4769 0.4739UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 0.10281 0.10281UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 0.37780 0.37800YUAN 0.0567 0.0567

Ebrahim K. Kanoo, a leading automotive distributor and service provider, donated BD10,000 to the Bahraini Association for Intellectual Disability and Autism. Ebrahim K. Kanoo Chairman, Mohammed Ebrahim Kanoo presented the cheque to Association Vice Chairman, Dr. Ahmed Al Ansaari in the presence of family members of autistic children and association members. The Bahraini Association for Intellectual Disability and Autism was founded in 1992 to provide services for special needs children

Washington

The World Bank’s private financing arm yesterday

launched a joint venture with Europe’s largest asset manager, Amundi, to create a $2 billion green bond fund to unlock financing for environmental projects in developing countries.

In the wake of the Paris climate deal there is greater interest in finding new ways to direct financing towards environmental projects, such as renewable energy, Amundi’s deputy head of institutional clients Frederic Samama said.

“People have realised we will only tackle climate change if we are able to

mobilise the civil society as well. It’s no longer just in the hands of policymakers,” he said, adding that the goal of the fund is to mobilise financial markets.

He said Amundi already has tested the waters with large institutional investors, including pension funds in Sweden, France and Germany, and a sovereign wealth fund in New Zealand, and “received very good feedback.”

The World Bank’s International Finance Corporation will invest up to $325 million in the new Green Cornerstone Bond Fund, which will buy green bonds issued by banks in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin

America, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, according to a statement. 

Amundi will raise the rest of the $2 billion from institutional investors worldwide and will provide its services in managing emerging-market debt. The fund will gradually shift investments to green bonds, and aims to be fully invested in green bonds within seven years.

IFC CEO Philippe Le Houerou said the fund will “lower the risk for the private sector and attract new investors -- essentially creating a market where there was none.” 

“We’ve already identified dozens of banks in many

developing countries around the world that could be interested in this fund. It’s a win-win -- supporting the green economy and deepening access to international markets for emerging market issuers,” he said in a statement.

Samama said while there is a limited pool of green bonds at the moment, the size and protection offered by the new joint venture will attract investors and in turn encourage banks in developing countries to issue these vehicles to finance green projects.

“We hope demand from investors will accelerate the issuance of green bonds.” (AFP)

World Bank,Amundi launch

$2bn green bond fundFrederic Samama, Amundi’s deputy head

of institutional clients

Manama:

The New Horizon School celebrated the Earth Day with

a view to enhancing awareness of an environment friendly life and to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

The theme of the Earth Day Project was ‘Nurture Nature and Save Our Future’ with the aim of imparting knowledge to inspire action in defence of environmental protection.

Rabiha Abdul Jabbar Al Orayedh from EWA was the Chief Guest of the day. In her address she laid emphasis on the importance of saving energy, reducing wastage of water, etc.

Students from KG to class VI presented skits and songs relating to the theme ‘Mother Earth’.

Razan Mustafa Al Salman prepared a power point presentation on reduction of heavy electricity and water consumption.

Principal Nirmala Jose focused on Organic Farming in the kitchen balcony.

The unique feature of the day was a teacher who distributed money plant to 27 students of her Class for a free take-home experience for the child’s family. The Kindergarten children planted saplings in their farmland. The other children brought saplings and seeds for the School Garden in order to promote horticulture farm in the school premises.

A spot quiz was also conducted for the students on Save the Earth Project 2017.

The Vice-Principals spoke on the importance of such informative, entertaining, and educational events in creating functional citizens of a country.

11Sunday, April 23, 2017

Campus@dt.bhThe three great essentials to achieve anything worth

while are: Hard work, Stick-to-itiveness, and

Common sense.– Thomas A. Edison

RCSI Bahrain celebrates White Uniform CeremonyManama

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland - Medical

University of Bahrain (RCSI Bahrain) organised its annual White Uniform Ceremony on Monday where 68 nursing students were presented with uniforms and entered clinical training.

The event, attended by students’ family members and staff, was addressed by RCSI Bahrain’s Head of School of Nursing and Midwifery, Professor Seamus Cowman, who highlighted

the professional roles and responsibilities of nurses, while

stressing the code of conduct for nursing in Bahrain.

Head of Nursing at King Hamad University Hospital

(KHUH), Dr Fairouz Alhourani and Year 3 nursing

student, Mohamed Jawhar were guest speakers for the event.

The ceremony concluded with the students’ recital of the professional declaration, through which they vowed to maintain professional attitudes and behaviours in work and relationships with classmates, teachers, patients and the community.

This is the 11th batch of nursing students to have entered the undergraduate-nursing programme at RCSI Bahrain since its launch.

The students pose for a photo after the ceremony

Al Orayedh with the school staff

Sunday, April 23, 201712

Minister of Education Dr. Majid Al Nuaimi patronised the ministry’s first national sport festival of the Reli-gious and Jafari Institutes’ students which was organ-ised under the theme “Bah-rain Joins Us” and hosted by the Religious Institute. Attending part of the func-tions, the minister asserted that the idea of the festival is based on forming mixed teams of students from both schools as part of the ministry’s keenness to use students’ activities in promoting tolerance, co-existence, cooperation, di-alogue and national unity

President of the Supreme Ju-dicial Council and Cassation Court Chancellor Salim bin Mo-hammed Al Kuwari received President of the University of Bahrain, Dr. Riyadh Yousif Ham-za. The visit of the President of the UoB to the Supreme Judicial Council aimed at ac-tivating the memorandum of understanding between the Higher Judicial Council and the University of Bahrain and enhancing their joint coopera-tion in line with their common objectives in all fields

The Rotary Club of Manama hosted a lunch gathering on the occasion of the organisation celebrating 52-years of commu-nity service in the Kingdom of Bahrain in the presence of Nejib Friji, Director of International Peace Institute (IPI) MENA, who highlighted the importance of regional integration in fostering sustainable development. In the picture Fareed Bader, President of Rotary Club of Manama hand-ing Friji a certificate as a token of appreciation for his presentation

Sunday, April 23, 2017 13Al-Mabarrah Al-Khalifia Foundation (MKF) held its first forum at the Gulf Hotel conference cen-tre. Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa delegated Dep-uty Prime Minister Shai-kh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa to open the sym-posium which focuses on the crucial importance of leadership and voluntary work in promoting youth. Al-Mabarrah Al-Khalifia Foundation (MKF) board of Trustees’ chairperson Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al-Khalifa addressed the opening ceremony

A delegation from the Industrial Committee of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), headed by Abdulhamid Abduljabbar Al-Kooheji visited the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) at the invitation of the latter. GPIC President Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery members of the Executive Management and Deputy Chairman of the Labour Union welcomed the delegation

The second an-nual exhibition of Photo Art Club was opened un-der the patron-age of the Gov-ernor of Northern Province Ali bin Al Sheikh Abdulhus-sain Al Asfour. He underlined the role played by photographers in preserving the identity, original-ity and heritage of Bahrain and the Gulf through photo exhibitions that reflect as-pects of everyday life in society

The Rotary Club of Manama hosted a lunch gathering on the occasion of the organisation celebrating 52-years of commu-nity service in the Kingdom of Bahrain in the presence of Nejib Friji, Director of International Peace Institute (IPI) MENA, who highlighted the importance of regional integration in fostering sustainable development. In the picture Fareed Bader, President of Rotary Club of Manama hand-ing Friji a certificate as a token of appreciation for his presentation

Undersecretary, Ministry of Interior Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa, visited the General Directorate of Traffic. He expressed his thanks and appreciation for the efforts exerted by the General Directorate of Traffic during the Formula 1 races

Punjabis United in Bahrain (PUB) celebrated their community festival Baisakhi on13th April. The celebrations included stage play & dance performance by members & kids, followed by dinner & dance

To pay tribute to Urdu literature, Majlise Fakhre Bahrain, a literary group organised a poetry session in memory of Urdu poet Pandit Brij Narayan Chakbast. The event was presided by Shueb Nigrami, a well-known scholar and educationist

Los Angeles

Production banner Universal Pictures is

considering expanding the “The Fast and

Furious” universe with a spin-off featuring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jason Statham and Charlize Theron.

The idea of a spin-off is in preliminary stage, but the makers have been thinking about it ever since Johnson’s character, Luke Hobbs, entered the franchise in “Fast Five”, reports variety.com.

The series’ architect Chris Morgan is penning the script for the spin-off.

Since the banner had no plan on how to move forward with

such a spin-off, the idea stayed in development until Statham joined the

series in the seventh part as Decker Shaw.Theron joined the franchise with the eighth

instalment, titled “The Fate of the Furious”, which released earlier this month. (IANS)

Anna Kendrick‏ @AnnaKendrick47

Every time “Kendrick” is trending I get worried

I’m in a Ghost situation and this is how I find out I’m dead.

14 Sunday, April 23, 2017

He has won 25 professional championships, includ-ing 16 WWE World Heavyweight Championships. Also an actor, he has played leading roles in The Marine, Legendary, Fred: The Movie, and 12 Rounds.

April 23, 1977

Los Angeles

Actress Margot Robbie has been roped in to play Queen Elizabeth in upcoming drama film “Mary Queen of Scots”.

Besides Robbie, the movie will feature Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

“Mary Queen of Scots” will take on the historical family rivalry between Elizabeth and Mary, when the latter attempted to overthrow her cousin’s from the English thrown.

Josie Rourke will direct the movie, which will be backed by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Liza Chasin. Robbie’s upcoming projects also include the assassin movie “Terminal”, A.A. Milne biopic “Goodbye Christopher Robin” and Tonya Harding movie, “I, Tonya”. (IANS)

Veteran actor-filmmaker Clint Eastwood’s next

venture will be based on a true story of a thwarted terrorist train attack.

The movie is based on the story of Anthony Sadler, Alek Skarlatos and Spencer Stone, three Americans travelling in Europe who found themselves on a train from Brussels to Paris, where they thwarted an attempted terrorist attack by overpowering the man armed with an AK-47.

The feature will be adapted from the book ‘The 15:17 to Paris: The True Story of a Terrorist, a Train, and Three American Heroes’ written by Sadler, Skarlatos, Stone and Jeffrey E. Stern. (IANS)

Los Angeles

Production banner Universal Pictures is

considering expanding the “The Fast and

Furious” universe with a spin-off featuring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Jason Statham and Charlize Theron.

The idea of a spin-off is in preliminary stage, but the makers have been thinking about it ever since Johnson’s character, Luke Hobbs, entered the franchise in “Fast Five”, reports variety.com.

The series’ architect Chris Morgan is penning the script for the spin-off.

Since the banner had no plan on how to move forward with

such a spin-off, the idea stayed in development until Statham joined the

series in the seventh part as Decker Shaw.Theron joined the franchise with the eighth

instalment, titled “The Fate of the Furious”, which released earlier this month. (IANS)

Anna Kendrick‏ @AnnaKendrick47

Every time “Kendrick” is trending I get worried

I’m in a Ghost situation and this is how I find out I’m dead.

14 Sunday, April 23, 2017

He has won 25 professional championships, includ-ing 16 WWE World Heavyweight Championships. Also an actor, he has played leading roles in The Marine, Legendary, Fred: The Movie, and 12 Rounds.

April 23, 1977

Los Angeles

Actress Margot Robbie has been roped in to play Queen Elizabeth in upcoming drama film “Mary Queen of Scots”.

Besides Robbie, the movie will feature Saoirse Ronan as Mary Stuart, reports hollywoodreporter.com.

“Mary Queen of Scots” will take on the historical family rivalry between Elizabeth and Mary, when the latter attempted to overthrow her cousin’s from the English thrown.

Josie Rourke will direct the movie, which will be backed by Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Liza Chasin. Robbie’s upcoming projects also include the assassin movie “Terminal”, A.A. Milne biopic “Goodbye Christopher Robin” and Tonya Harding movie, “I, Tonya”. (IANS)

Veteran actor-filmmaker Clint Eastwood’s next

venture will be based on a true story of a thwarted terrorist train attack.

The movie is based on the story of Anthony Sadler, Alek Skarlatos and Spencer Stone, three Americans travelling in Europe who found themselves on a train from Brussels to Paris, where they thwarted an attempted terrorist attack by overpowering the man armed with an AK-47.

The feature will be adapted from the book ‘The 15:17 to Paris: The True Story of a Terrorist, a Train, and Three American Heroes’ written by Sadler, Skarlatos, Stone and Jeffrey E. Stern. (IANS)

Lily Collins stars in Warren Beatty’s new movie ‘Rules Don’t

Apply’ and the actress says she was fascinated with the Hollywood legend on the set of the movie.

The 28-year-old starlet appears in the movie as aspiring actress Marla Mabrey and says she was enthralled to be in the presence of

the famous actor and looked up to him.

“He’s a mind full of information for everything to do with the business, politics, pop

culture, family, there’s never anything he can’t

talk about and I would find myself fascinated

on set watching (Warren) and asking questions,” Collins says.

Beatty also stars in the movie as reclusive

and eccentric businessman Howard Hughes. (TOI)

Los Angeles

Actor Zac Efron, who turns 30

in October, says he is looking to find the right girl to settle down with after seeing some of his friends in “great relationships”.

Efron, who split from model Sami Miro last year, is now looking forward to get married soon, reports dailymail.co.uk.

“I didn’t think much about settling down until recently. Now that I’m getting closer to my 30s, I’m around some great relationships and I’ve seen expert couples at work,” Efron told Cosmopolitan magazine.

“I’m realising that you have to find your own happiness before you can make somebody else happy,” he added. (IANS)

Sunday, April 23, 2017 15

Singer Joey Belladonna (L) and guitarist Scott Ian of Anthrax perform during the Las Rageous music festival at the Downtown Las Vegas Events Centre yesterday in Las Vegas, Nevada (AFP)

Actress Kate Beckinsale has responded to Len Wiseman’s

petition for divorce, six months after he filed papers.

While Len insisted the pair are not seeking spousal support from each other, Kate’s filing states that she is reserving the right to support

from Len.The pair who married in 2004

had a pre-nuptial agreement and Kate has asked for all of her earnings,

following the breakdown of their relationship, to remain hers.

She is also seeking to keep her own jewels and other personal items.

In court papers previously filed by Len in October, 11 months after they split, he cited irreconcilable differences.

News of the pair’s split surfaced in November 2015.Kate, 43, previously in a relationship with actor

Michael Sheen, 48, for eight years until 2003. They have an 18-year- old daughter Lily together. (TOI)

MAMOUN EFFENDI - FUTURE OF ARABS IN LIGHT OF NON-ARAB NEIGHBORS’ ENCROACHMENT ON THE REGIONDate: April 24Venue: Abdulla Alzayed For Bahraini Press Heritage

A lecture by Egyptian-American Political Science Professor Mamoun Fandy. Currently the Director of the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Middle East and Gulf Security program, Effendi authored several books includ-ing “Media and Politics in the Arab World” and “Victims of Modernity: America and the Arabs after September 11”.

MOHAMMED BIN FARIS SONG Date: Every Thursday 8pm ( Till April 24 )Venue: Mohammed Bin Faris Music Hall

Every Thursday evening, we set sail with the musical sounds of Mohammed bin Faris Band in a lyrical voyage which regales audiences with tales of a pealing diver’s life from festive melodies to working songs and farewell ballads.In the 13 years that have passed since its establishment, the band has travelled the world to introduce Bahrain’s soul-ful musical identity through the tradi-tional arts. As part of its participation in this year’s Spring of Culture, the band will hold a number of concerts, trans-porting audiences to a time of tradition. Join us at the Mohammed bin Faris Hall in Muharraq, near the Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research.

THE PEARLING PATH EXHIBITIONDate:Till 4 August 2017, 8:00am - 8:00pmVenue: Bahrain National Museum Four years after the inscrip-tion of the “Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy” site on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the exhibition will showcase the built vision for the site through architectural models, images, studies and mock-ups of the different components of the project. From the conservation aspects to the new archi-tectural interventions, the exhibition will give an indepth overview of this unique project that aims to spearhead the rehabilitation of the Old City of Muharraq.

ROYAL THAI FESTIVALDate: Till April 28Venue: Gulf Hotel Voted Best Thai Restaurant by the Food and Travel awards, Royal Thai presents The Thai Festival!Starting from the 19th till the 28th of April, guests will be treated to a unique

and exotic Thai experience, from the food to the ambiance and the tradition-al Thai entertainment flown in exclu-sively from Thailand.Thai Master Chef Tawatchai, together with his culinary team will bring the exquisite cuisine and warm hospitality from the “Land of Smiles”.During this festival, our team will be using Thailand’s native ingredients to serve the most authentic dishes to all Thai food lovers, including the spicy tom-yum soup, rich Thai red and green curry, fresh papaya salad and much more. Said Chef Tawatchai. GULF PROPERTY SHOWDate : May 9 to 11 Venue : Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

The Gulf Property Show is a boutique showcase for the real estate and property development sec-tors, that aims to highlight present and future developments in the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Northern Gulf, and provide the opportunity to pro-mote Bahrain’s property assets as well as regional and international oppor-tunities for investors in commercial and residential real estate.You can be assured of the best property deals and expertise to help make the dream of owning or investing in real estate come true.This event will showcase & pro-mote products & services from Local & International Real Estate Developers, Investors, Service Providers & Consultants.

THE ART OF SILVERSMITHINGDate: 29 April 2017, 4:00pmVenue: Bahrain Fort Museum

People of Bahrain are known for their silversmithing craft from the Dilmun era until now. In this workshop you will learn more about the craft and you will get to make your own silver ring. Free Admission. Minimum age 18 years old and above. Silversmithing is the art of turning silver sheet metal into hollow ware (dishes, bowls, porringers, cups, candlesticks, vases, ewers, urns, etc.), flatware (silverware), and other articles of household silver, church plate or sculpture. It may also include the making of jewelry.

JOHN MAXWELL TEAM GLOBAL YOUTH Initiative – BahrainDate: April 29 Venue : My Gym, Seef

Today’s youth face many challenges - struggles with confidence, fear of failure, and bullying. As parents, teachers, and leaders, we can do some-thing about it! You and your youth are invited to participate in a world-changing youth movement that will empower youth to be the change they wish to see in the world!During Global Youth Initiative week, youth leader-ship events will be hosted all over the world. Our goal is to reach 500,000 youth. As a certified member of the John Maxwell Team, I am hosting a local Global Youth Initiative event right here in Seef District.

SEMINAR ON PEARLING AND GEMSTONE

Date: April 23Venue: Bait Al Tijjar

The pearl, gold, and jew-elry sector committee of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) headed by board member and committee head Deema Al Haddad in cooperation with the Gem and Pearl Testing Laboratory of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism is holding a seminar on Pearling and Gemstone on Sunday 23rd April at 11 a.m. in Al Ruwad Hall on the third floor of Bait Al Tijjar. The seminar will be delivered by international gemmologist Vincent Pardieu, who will shed a scope light on pearling and special features of gemstones. The seminar will be deliv-ered in English language, and targets business owners and entrepreneurs in the gold, jewelry and pearl sector.Al Haddad reinstated the commit-tee’s commitment to organizing events that aim to keep the sector abreast of updates in the field and enhance their competitiveness. She extended an invi-tation to the business community to attend the event, and seize the oppor-tunity to learn from the international expert.

16 Sunday, April 23, 2017

HOW TO REACH US “Out & About’, a

ready reckoner for the events taking place on the

island, is published from Friday to Tuesday. To be included,

please use one of the following: news@dt.bh, or

call 38444680.

KIDNEY CARE EXHIBITION Date: May 4-6Venue: The Indian School Bahrain

Thanal Bahrain Chapter is gearing up for a Kidney Care Exhibition from May 4 to 6 at the Indian School Bahrain with the sup-port of the Ministry of Health(MoH) in order to spread awareness about kidney care and arrange free kidney screening. The organisers said MoH has agreed to loan all the specimens required for the exhibition like human body, kidney and other human organs to exhibit for the educational and dem-onstration purpose. MoH and Thanal has established a mutual partnership for disseminating awareness initiative among the public in the Kingdom focusing mainly the expatriates. Thanal is a charitable organization rendering various humanitarian ser-vices like dialysis and palliative care centres, medical clinics, ambulance services etc and running the biggest stand alone dialysis facility in India equipped with 80 dialysis machines functioning in four units by doing more than 5,000 dialysis every month, thus benefitting almost 500 under-privileged patients. The public can register online to attend the event by visiting www.thanalbahrain.com. For further details contact 38384504, 33433530, 39798122, 39605806, 39857759.

HIGHLIGHT

ISB MEGA FAIR & FOOD FESTIVAL 2017Date: October 12 & 13Venue: The Indian School Bahrain

The Indian School Bahrain (ISB) is gearing up for Mega Fair and Food Festival which will be held on October 12 & 13, 2017 in the Isa Town campus. The Indian School Fair is organized to generate funds to sponsor needy students and for staff welfare. ISB Chairman Prince S Natarajan thanked the community and media for the overwhelming support to the previous fair, which was one of the best in terms of revenue generation and receivables.Last year around 800 students received benefit in the form of fee concession, he said. The School Fair is a carnival that witnesses a display of colours which include a variety of cultural programmes, orchestra and musical bonanza. It also contains a food festival which is a tasty hit among the crowd that comes in the campus during the carnival. Almost 100 stalls from leading business houses showcase their products and services this year. ISB Secretary Dr. Shemily P John said that the Fair is a way to reach out to the needy children whose educational future otherwise will be hampered because of non-availability of funds. Being a community school it is the responsibility of the school to support such needy children. Proceeds of the Fair will also go towards staff welfare and creation of a staff contingency reserve. ISB Fair General Convenor Mohammed Hussain Malim requested the support of the media and the community to make this venture successful. The entire programme will be announced in due course of time. It is a great opportunity to every business and service provider to reach out to a large section of the Bahrain population during the carnival days.

17Sunday, April 23, 2017

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ALWARDI CLEANINGCleaning contracts & General cleaning services.Sofa curtain shampooing.Curtain steam cleaning.Marble grinding and mirror polishing. Supplying cleaning staffs. Call 33717930

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18 Sunday, April 23, 2017COOL 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)

Your love, generosity, and sense of beauty are heightened today. If there’s one thing you need to do, it’s go outside and watch the sunset. The romantic, creative, and beautiful side of all things, including you, will resonate strongly and create a lasting bond with your inner core. Your sense of self will be restored through tender moments.Let your guard down today. Don’t feel like you need to perform for anyone. Accept the notion that you’re perfect the way you are. You don’t have to prove your self-worth to anyone. Let your heart expand and your mind rest. Make sure the pure glow within you is lighting the path. Don’t allow an artificial mask to block the reality of your true identity.Reconnect with your self-worth today, and say out loud, “I am awesome!” You’re good at extending your heart to others and helping them with their issues. Now take some of that love and caring and focus it on you. Issues having to do with love and romance are of primary concern.

Stay at home tonight and cook a delicious meal for you and someone you love. You will gravitate toward beauty, both tangible and intangible. In fact, it might be a good day to go shopping, as long as you can control the urge to overspend. Don’t let your self- worth be equated with how many shiny toys you have. Splurge a bit, but try not to go overboard.

Today may seem like one of those days in which everyone but you has a perfect life. Realize that no one has a perfect life. Everyone is plagued by demons of some sort. And it isn’t wise to compare yourself to others anyway. The more you do, the more you simply set yourself up for failure. Find that sense of love and fulfilment within yourself.

Today may be serious, with clouds looming over your parade. Although the clouds are dark and threatening, that doesn’t necessarily mean that rain will pour down. Things are about to climax in your life. Today’s message is that you should find the beauty and sensuality in yourself and others and renew your enthusiasm and sensuality in each new day.

Today is a terrific day for you. You have the chance to start over on many levels, especially romantic ones. Whether or not you’re in a serious romantic relationship, you will find all your interactions with close friends and partners to be especially tender and meaningful. Strengthen your bond with the people around you.

Things are starting to lighten up for you, even though you may find your interactions quite heavy today. Don’t run away from the feeling. More than likely it’s a result of you or the other person consciously or unconsciously wanting to get closer and more intimate. Your sensitivity is heightened. Let yourself feel rather than think. It’s a day for listening rather than talking.

There’s an Earthy weightiness to today. You could feel like your relationships are in a difficult situation. Don’t worry, because the clouds are going to lighten up tremendously after today. Put in your hard work now and do any last minute planning you feel is necessary before you’re off and running. The starting gate is about to open.

Today is a terrific day to let your sensitive, caring nature shine through fully. Surprise someone with roses and a candlelit dinner. Take care of the amenities like music and wine. It’s also an excellent time to go shopping for yourself or others. Let romance lead the way. Your inner core will be fuelled by your sensual relations with others.

Turn over a new leaf with your loved ones today. Infuse something new into the relationship. Add a new wave of tenderness and sensuality to the dynamic. If something annoys you about the relationship, don’t confront it abrasively and cause the other person’s defensive walls to go up. Be tactful and loving in your approach and you will get the same in return.

You’re going to feel extra connected with the people around you today. Go out and have a good time with loved ones. You will experience the oneness that comes when people acknowledge that we are all part of a whole. This will resonate loud and clear in your core today and you will be extra sensitive about anything said to you, positive or negative.

1- Put ___ on (limit);; 5- Cutty ___;; 9- He-Man’s twin sister;; 14- Describes a gently cooked steak;; 15- “The Time Machine” people;; 16- Minor, in law;; 17- Consumer;; 18- Bean town?;; 19- Make into law;; 20- Roman worshipers of Dionysus;; 22- Short literary composition;; 23- Japanese beer brand;; 24- Put the kibosh on;; 28- Letter of recommendation;; 34- Canal site;; 38- Intent;; 39- ___ La Douce;; 40- Ham;; 41- Cream cake;; 43- Hazard;; 44- Recipe abbr.;; 47- General tendencies;; 48- Epic poem of India;; 51- Burdened;; 52- Bara of the silents;; 57- Inuit dwelling;; 61- Lubricated;; 63- ___ evil...;; 64- Tract;; 66- Let ___;; 67- On ___-to-know basis;; 68- Steering wheel;; 69- Greenish blue;; 70- Loiter;; 71- Ah, me!;; 72- Able was ___...;;

1- Caribbean island;; 2- Durango dwellings;; 3- Betel palm;; 4- Roost;; 5- Actress Ward;; 6- Foreigners;; 7- CD follower;; 8- Sportage maker;; 9- Tight swimsuit;; 10- Coop group;; 11- Greek letters;; 12- Costa ___;; 13- ABA member;; 21- Blackjack request;; 25- Call ___ day;; 26- Sundial num-ber;; 27- Clown Kelly;; 29- Singer Kitt;; 30- Egypt’s river;; 31- Ayatollah’s land;; 32- In the center of;; 33- Metallica drummer Ulrich;; 34- Salon offering;; 35- What ___ mind reader?;; 36- Snack;; 37- Aleutian island;; 42- Slatted wooden box;; 45- Downcast;; 46- Opposite of post-;; 49- Gory;; 50- Bassett or Lansbury;; 53- Port-au-Prince is its capital;; 54- Cosmetician Lauder;; 55- Prohibit;; 56- Fred’s dancing sister;; 57- The wolf ___ the door;; 58- Rowlands of “Gloria”;; 59- Lustful look;; 60- Lulu;; 62- Super Bowl XXXIV champs;; 64- Eureka!;; 65- Fam. member;;

BEETLE BAILEY R

#PollToday

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

/nobonline/newsofbahrain

US indicts Russian in botnet takedown

Russian law enforcers have shot dead two “ban-dits” from an Islamic State sleeper cell near the vola-tile North Caucasus region who were plotting to kill religious leaders.

A Russian under arrest in Spain has been slapped with an indictment in US, accused of controlling a top generator of spam and online exortion.

Sunday, April 23, 2017 19

Beijing

China’s first cargo spacecraft, Tianzhou-1,

successfully completed docking with an orbiting space lab yesterday, the Beijing Aerospace Control Center said.

The Tianzhou-1 was launched from the Wenchang Space Launch Center in Hainan province Thursday evening and began to approach the space lab, Tiangong-2, yesterday morning.

It made first contact with the space lab at 12:16 pm yesterday and docking was

completed at 12:23 pm.Cargo ships bring supplies

and fuel into orbit, and the independent development of one is a “crucial step” toward China’s goal of having its own crewed space station by 2022, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

The Tianzhou-1 is a tube-like craft which measures 10.6 metres in length and can carry over six tonnes of cargo as well as satellites, Xinhua said.

It will also conduct experiments in space, before falling back to Earth, Xinhua said.

Warsaw

Europe’s largest wooden church has recovered

its original splendour after three years of restoration work, the coordinator of the project in southern Poland said Friday.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Lutheran Church of Peace in Swidnica was built in the mid-17th century and can hold up to 7,500 people. Its restoration was financed

by Norway.“It’s a great day for our

church and for the entire little protestant community in Swidnica which wouldn’t have been able to finance the work by itself,” coordinator Bozena Pytel said.

The work cost 4.1 million euros ($4.4 million) and notably involved restoring the organ, pulpit and altar “of what is an exceptional example of Baroque art”, Pytel added.

Ixtapa

A Dutch sailing boat offering abortions, often

in defiance of some country’s laws, arrived in international waters off Mexico on Friday, the organisation crewing it said.

The “Women on Waves” vessel was expelled from near Guatemala in February without carrying out a single pregnancy termination.

It had taken up position off Guerrero state, on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

The “Women on Waves” group said in an online

statement that it was offering “free legal medical abortions till 9 weeks of pregnancy” to women who needed them. It said its ship “has all required permits” and would receive women until Sunday.

It noted that Mexico permitted abortions in cases of sexual violence. Abortion is limited in other cases to different degrees across the 31 Mexican states.

The Dutch group has previously sent its ship to waters off Ireland, Poland, Portugal and Spain.

China’s spacecraft docks with space lab

The United States intends to honour the agreement, subject to the results of the vetting processes that now apply to all refugees considered for admission to the United States of America,”

Mike PenceUS Vice President

Miss Honduras murderer claims mental illness

San Francisco dark after power outageEquipment failure at a utili-ty station and a subsequent fire pulled the plug on San Francisco on Friday, cutting power to downtown busi-nesses and homes for hours.

Europe’s largest Wooden church restored in Poland

Dutch ‘abortion boat’ arrives off Mexico coast

Two IS ‘bandits’ killed near Caucasus: Russia

A man suspected of the 2014 murder of Miss Honduras and her sister, his girl-friend at the time, declined to testify in court on grounds of mental illness.

Do you think Barack Obama did not do enough to maintain USA’s strong relations with Arab countries?

Yes No Cant Say

Seoul

The US supercarrier Carl Vinson will arrive in the

Sea of Japan in days, Vice President Mike Pence said yesterday, after days of mixed messages from Washington over the warship’s whereabouts.

The strike group was supposedly steaming towards North Korea last week amid soaring tensions over the rogue state’s apparent ramping up for a sixth nuclear test, with Pyongyang threatening to hit back at any provocation.

But the US Navy, which had earlier said the aircraft carrier would sail north from waters off Singapore as a “prudent measure” to deter the regime, admitted Tuesday the ships were in fact sent

away from Singapore and towards Australia to conduct drills with Australian navy.

The aircraft carrier will arrive “in a matter of days”, Pence, who is in Sydney, said, after the location of the naval strike group became contentious.

“We are sending an armada. Very powerful,” Trump had tweeted, while Pentagon chief Jim Mattis had said the Vinson was “on her way up”.

“The authorities of the Trump administration are spouting a load of rubbish,” a North Korean foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement released yesterday by Pyongyang’s official KCNA news agency.

America is “seeking to bring nuclear aircraft carrier

strike groups one after another to the waters off the Korean Peninsula. Such intimidation and blackmail can never frighten the DPRK”, he said, referring to the North by official name, Democratic Republic of Korea.

Pence also renewed US calls for Beijing to use its “unique” position to bring Pyongyang to heel.

“The steps we’re seeing China take, in many ways unprecedented steps, bringing economic pressure to bear on North Korea are very welcome,” Pence said.

“We do believe China can do more.”

US officials warned that “all options are on the table” including military strikes to curb North’s nuclear ambitions. (AFP)

US super carrier due in Sea of Japan

Yangon

Two Georgian men were busted in a Myanmar

airport with $90,000 of stolen cash hidden in their underwear which they had swiped from a local money changer, police said yesterday.

Officers said the middle-aged men, identified as Janjgava Revas, 64, and Narmania Malkhaz, 51, had made off with the money from a currency exchange office on Friday in Yangon, Myanmar’s largest city.

“They were found at the Yangon airport with the $90,000 in their underwear,”

said a statement posted on Yangon police’s official Facebook page.

“They will have to face trial,” an officer said, adding that the men were being held in the

city’s main prison.The duo allegedly duped

the money changer into giving them the $90,000 before they had handed over the equivalent amount in Myanmar kyat.

Georgians caught with $90,000 in underwear

Representational image

USS Carl Vinson on the South China Sea while conducting flight operations earlies this month

Launch vehicle carrying China’s cargo spacecraft Tianzhou-1 is seen shortly before lift off

Aidan Payne/DTNNaidan@dt.bh

Saudi Arabia recorded a thumping 390-run victory

over China yesterday in the opening round of matches of the International Cricket Council (ICC) 2017 World Cricket League (WCL) Division One in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Batting first, Saudi Arabia scored a massive 418 all out in 50 overs with Mohammed Afzal (120 off 100, 14x4. 4x6) the main scorer, with good support coming from the skipper Shaoib Ali (91 off 41, 10x4, 6x6), Shahbaz Rasheed (51), Imran Asif (40) and Abdul Waheed (30), while Feng Yu (five for 89) in 10 overs and Zhang Yu Fei (two for 82) in 10 overs being the best of the bowlers for China.

In reply, China was humbled as they were bowled out for just 28 in 12.4 overs with ‘extras’ 13 top scoring, followed by Zhuang Zelin (6) and Zhang Peng (6 not out).

The pick of the bowlers for Saudi Arabia were Imran Arif (three for two) four overs, Shahbaz Rasheed (three for five) in 2.4 overs including a hat-trick and Ibrarul Haq (three for eight) in four overs.

The teams competing in the tournament are hosts Thailand, Bhutan, Bahrain, China, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, with the winner of the qualifier progressing to the ICC WCL Division 5 which will be staged in September 2017. Five regional qualifiers will play alongside two teams relegated from Division 4 and one team from Division 5.

This round of matches for Asia sees the seven teams play each other in a league with matches played on three grounds in the city of Chiang

Mai in Northern Thailand. Each team will play a total of six matches spread over a 10 day period concluding on May 1 at Prem Tinsulanonda International School, Chiangmai Gymkhana and Royal Chiangmai Golf Club.

In other matches played, Kuwait defeated Kuwait by 150 runs and Thailand outplayed Bhutan by 154 runs.

Bahrain’s campaign gets underway against hosts Thailand and comprises the captain, Azeem Ul Haq, Tahir Dar, Babar Ali, Junaid Niazi, Gamini Perrera, Imran Butt, Janaka Chathuranga, Mohammed Ismail, Amir Gondal, Mohammed Sameer Fayaz, Mohammed Iqbal, Awad Khan, Bilal Mansoor, Jabbar Amjad, head coach Rexie Arunvasagam and manager Syed Rizwan Shah.

SPORTSSunday, April 23, 201720

Other scores:

Saudi thrash China

1) Qatar 295/6 in 50 overs

(Qalandar Khan 72, Iman

Ul Haq 62, Zaheer Ibrahim

57no, Haroon Shahid 3/49)

bt Kuwait 145 all out in

40.4 overs (Aamir Javed 52,

Mohammed Irfan 29, Haroon

Shahid 24, Mohammed

Nadeem 4/10 by 150 runs.

2) Thailand 235/3 (Wanchana

Uisek 115no, Ryan Raina

68no) bt Bhutan 81 all out in

31.5 overs (Sonam Tobgay

24, Jigme Singye 17, Kencho

Norbu 12, Sameer Gawas

2/9, Nopphon Senamontree

2/22) by 154 runs.

Today’s schedule:

1) Thailand vs Bahrain,

2) Qatar vs Bhutan,

3) Kuwait vs China.

DT News NetworkManama

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, hit a new personal record in triathlon competitions after posting a time of 04:57 minutes in the Challenge Mogan-Gran Canaria.

Organised by Challenge Company, the event featured an elite group of 500 athletes, with HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, spearheading the Bahrain National Triathlon Team, finishing third in the event.

Speaking after crossing the finish line, Shaikh Nasser expressed sincerest gratitude and appreciation for the follow-up of HM

King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the King of Bahrain, to the event, stating that HM’s support was decisive in motivating the team and fuelling its members with enthusiasm to achieve honourable results.

It’s worth noting that HH Shaikh Nasser was congratulated by HM the King on the occasion of the new personal record HH set during the event.

Besides Shaikh Nasser, the Bahrain National Triathlon Team composed of Mikel Calahorra, Nawaf Al Dhaen, Salim Al Dossary, Mohammed Al Qees, Ahmed Al Hajj, Ali Janahi, Hamad Al Muraisi, Jamal Al Dossery and Erik.

The event covered a distance of 113km, spread out over three courses including swimming, cycling and running. Shaikh Nasser completed the swimming

race in 35:3 seconds, while HH finished the cycling and running races in 2:50 minutes and 1:32 m i n u t e s respectively. It was his first a p p e a r a n c e in a Triathlon event held on European soil. 

F u r t h e r m o r e , Shaikh Nasser expressed utmost happiness and pride at the achieved r e s u l t s , praising the team members’ s p i r i t a n d readiness.  Shaikh Nasser pointed out that the event featured strong competition given the fact that many top athletes participated in the event.

Shaikh Nasser sets new personal record

Berlin

Thiago Alcantara’s second-half equaliser

rescued Bayern Munich in yesterday’s 2-2 draw at home to Mainz as the runaway Bundesliga leaders twice came from behind.

Having bowed out of the Champions League quarter-finals 6-3 on aggregate following Tuesday’s 4-2

second-leg defeat at Real Madrid, the draw caps a week to forget for Bayern, who are winless in their last four games.

Relegation-threatened Mainz came close to another shock win in Munich, but Bayern extended their unbeaten home run in the league to 20 matches dating back to March 2016, when they lost 2-1 to Mainz.

Thiago saves Bayern

Bayern Munich 2 Mainz 2 Hertha Berlin 1 Wolfsburg 0Hamburg 1 Darmstadt 2Ingolstadt 2 Werder Bremen 4 Eintracht Frankfurt 3 Augsburg 1Borussia 2 Borussia Dortmund 3

Sunday, April 23, 2017 21SPORTS

FootballScores as of closing

English Premier League:

Scottish Cup semi-final, Hampden:

Hibernian 2 Aberdeen 3

Brentford 3 QPR 1Bristol City 3 Barnsley 2Burton 2 Leeds 1 Huddersfield 1 Fulham 4Nottm Forest 3 Reading 2Rotherham 1 Ipswich 0 Sheff Wed 2 Derby 1Wigan 0 Cardiff 0Wolves 0 Blackburn 0

English Championship:

West Ham 0 Everton 0

Bournemouth 4 Middlesbrough 0

Hull 2 Watford 0Swansea 2 Stoke 0

London

A double by Norwegian international Stefan

Johansen inspired in form Fulham to a 4-1 thumping of potential Championship play-off rivals Huddersfield, boosting their chances of a return to the elite after a three year absence.

The Cottagers fourth successive win -- which has seen them score 13 goals -- lifted them three points clear in sixth place of fading Leeds, who lost 2-1 to struggling Burton also yesterday.

Burton’s win means they are almost certainly safe from relegation with two games remaining -- no mean feat for manager Nigel Clough working on a shoestring budget

compared to many of his rivals. Fulham’s victory -- their

superb seam of form perfectly timed for the business end of the campaign -- also means Newcastle, whose own form has dipped of late, can seal the second and last automatic promotion spot on Monday if they beat Preston North End.

The club his father Brian turned into unlikely two-time European Cup winners Nottingham Forest also did their hopes of staying in the second tier a world of good by beating play-off hopefuls Reading 3-2.

Wigan could become the second club relegated -- joining hapless Rotherham -- if Birmingham get a point in their first game under veteran

Harry Redknapp in the derby with Aston Villa on Sunday.  

At the other end of the table the title could be decided on Monday as should Newcastle lose Brighton will be assured of it.

The Seagulls missed out on their first opportunity to clinch it, having perhaps celebrated too much since their promotion was assured last Monday, they lost 2-0 to Norwich on Friday.   

Goalkeeper David Stockdale could well appear in a ‘next’ question in years to come after an almost identical brace of own goals.

Both goals from Alex Pritchard strikes saw the ball go in off the back of the head of the unfortunate goalkeeper after coming back off the bar

and post respectively.“I don’t think that’ll ever

happen again -- but I’ll take the assists!” smiled Pritchard, whose side failed to register a shot on target in the whole match as efforts which hit the woodwork don’t count.

For Pritchard -- who like the other players sported black armbands out of respect for former England international defender Ugo Ehiogu who died earlier Friday aged just 44 -- it was an especially poignant night.

Whilst the defeat will do little to dampen the ecstasy of the Seagulls first ever promotion to the Premier League -- which they clinched last Monday -- it ended their five game winning run. (AFP)

Johansen fires Fulham’s dreams

London

Gaston Ramirez’s sending off cost struggling

Middlesbrough dear on yesterday as a 4-0 whipping by Bournemouth left them nine points shy of safety in the Premier League.

While they look set to be joined by north-east neighbours, and rock-bottom Sunderland, in the second tier next term both Hull and Swansea enjoyed victories to keep their hopes alive of staying up. 

Hull beat a listless Watford 2-0 despite having Oumar Niasse sent off in the first-half. Swansea rode their luck a little at home to Stoke with Marko Arnautovic skying a penalty attempt but in the end were deserving of the 2-0 win which left them still third from bottom and two points adrift of Hull.

The day’s other match saw West Ham eke out a tedious 0-0 draw with Everton.

The point should be enough to ensure the Hammers remain in the top flight next season while Everton moved above Arsenal into sixth spot although they have played three games

more than the Gunners.Both sets of fans at

the Bournemouth and Middlesbrough clash conducted a minute’s applause for former Boro and England defender Ugo Ehiogu who died on Friday aged 44.

They repeated it in the 44th minute with chants of ‘Ugo’ ringing around the ground.

H o w e v e r , there was precious little else for the visiting fans to make noise about after that.

‘Boro fell to pieces in a disastrous opening 20 minutes, conceding two goals, one to Joshua King in the first minute and when Ramirez was given his marching orders with two bookable offences within minutes of each other the writing was on the wall.

‘Boro are the only side in the top five European leagues to not have won in the league at all in 2017.

Middlesbrough manager Steve Agnew blamed poor defending for their early slip-

u p s but urged his players to regroup for the crucial game with Sunderland on Wednesday.

“We have to go and beat Sunderland on Wednesday and move on from there. It’s been a tough few months, certainly since our last win.” 

Hull’s improvement under Marco Silva has been largely down to their home form having dropped just two points since he took over and despite being  a man down their spirit since the Portuguese took over shone through.

Niasse was slightly

unfortunate to be sent off

for his foul on M’Baye Niang but the hosts could thank goalkeeper

Eldin Jakupovic for a commanding

performance in goal to keep them level up to half-time.

His saves were rewarded when Lazar Markovic put the ball into the back of the net

on the second time of asking after a neat Hull counter attack just after the hour mark. They added a second through Sam Clucas’ sweet volley.

“I’m really happy,” Silva told Premier League Productions.

Watford skipper Troy Deeney was furious with his team-mates’ lacklustre performance.

“I’m not in the business of apologising, but it’s a long journey for our fans and that wasn’t good enough, which is why I went over to apologise to the fans,” said the striker.

“We have a moral obligation to play better.” (AFP)

Boro onbrink of dropHull and Swansea battle on

Middlesbrough’s Uruguayan mid-fielder Gaston Ramírez (L) tackles Bournemouth’s English midfield-er Charlie Daniels

Paris

A goal apiece from Edinson Cavani and Angel di Maria

gave Paris Saint-Germain a 2-0 win over Montpellier to send the champions top of Ligue 1 for the first time this season yesterday.

PSG now have 80 points from 34 games to top Ligue 1 provisionally while second placed Monaco, the Champions League semi-finalists, have 77 points from 32 ahead of a challenging trip to Lyon on Sunday.

In hommage to the Parisian policeman murdered on the Champs Elysees in a terror attack on Thursday, two policemen symbolically took the kick off, while the players all wore black armbands in mourning.

Given the reverse fixture was a resounding 3-0 win for Montpellier the star-studded Parisian outfit needed to be on

their guard and occasionally rode their luck. 

But Unai Emery’s charges have now steamrollered to eight straight wins since their humiliating Champions League meltdown in Barcelona.

“We’re in a good place, Monaco too, they’re really good,” said Emery after the game.

“We must win our last (four) matches and see if they slip up,” he added.

Visiting coach Jean-Louis Gasset is a former PSG assistant

coach from the Laurent Blanc era and had enjoyed his first return to some extent.

“We had them on the back foot for a while,” he said.

“I’m fully behind them for the title, but it won’t be easy with Monaco needing to slip up twice,” he said in reference not only to the three extra points Monaco can take but also their vastly superior goal difference.

Cavani, known as El Matador for his killer instinct in front of goal, converted Blaise Matuidi’s neat cross after leaving his marker with the drop of a shoulder and dummying the ‘keeper from around the penalty spot for his 31st league goal of the campaign.

That was just before the half hour and Cavani was again involved in setting up Di Maria’s decider on 48 minutes.

The Uruguayan dispossessed

a defender and back heeled the ball to the Argentine giving him a distant sight on goal before he duly curled his shot into the top corner for a sumptuous strike.

M i n u t e s later Cavani almost scored an unwitting own goal when PSG ‘keeper Kevin Trapp kicked the ball into his back and the rebounding ball was scooped off the PSG goal-line by the cool headed Serge Aurier.

Both sides could have scored more in an open game that featured astonishingly few fouls. (AFP)

French Ligue 1:Paris SG 2 Montpellier 0

Lorient 5 Metz 1

Dijon 3 Angers 2

Caen 0 Nantes 2

Bordeaux 2 Bastia 0

Lille 3 Guingamp 0

SPORTSSunday, April 23, 201722

Tour of Croatia

NIBALI LEADSUmag

Another solid performance by Bahrain Merida Pro

Cycling Team saw Italian Vincenzo Nibali lead the general classification after four days of the Tour of Croatia.

Kristijan Đurasek of the the UAE Emirates team and previous leader didn’t appear due to a crash and resulting in injury, forcing him to pull out.

The race started quite fast with a slight back wind and

there were no breakaways for the first 40 kilometers.

After Bakarac and the beginning of the

climb a breakaway of four riders made a gap of four minutes. They kept this difference along the way and also beyond the Tunnel Učka (Cat. 2). In the valley of river Mirna and t h r o u g h the flat and fast part of the stage the peloton started to catch up and

by Buzet the gap dropped to less than 2.5 minutes.

Bahrain Merida riders were keeping eyes on the team leader and the breakaway group, while riding in the front of the peloton, most of the time with Caja Rural Team. They followed their strategy throughout today’s stage and gave good support to Nibali, with the goal of keeping a good status for general classification. Nibali was wearing the green KoM (King of the Mountain) jersey.

Just before entering Umag, the final destination town, the bunch annulated the breakaway quartet, with just one of them, Marangoni, keeping a small gap and trying to take a solo win. But with few metres to go, the sprinters caught him and Ruffoni crossed the line first.

Nibali passed the finish line with the same time as the winner and was the best qualified Bahrain Merida

rider and above all took the first

position in general classification.“I did not expect it. I was

already on the bus for a shower, when they called me to get on the podium for the award ceremony,” said the captain of Bahrain Merida Pro Cycling Team. “An unusual thing for me to dress the leader’s jersey after a sprint stage. I’m sorry for what happened to Durasek due to yesterday’s crash, but this is cycling.”

“We will not change our tactics,” explained Nibali

“We will keep our rhythm and our race on the climb, as we need to put kilometers in the legs, since neither me nor my teammates did not race after the Tirreno-Adriatico. Here it’s a bit cold, but the stages are

long and that it’s important for us

ahead of Giro d’Italia.”

Cavani sends PSG top

Paris Saint-Germain’s Uruguayan forward Edinson Cavani celebrates his goal

Vincenzo Nibali on the podium

Sunday, April 23, 2017 23SPORTS

London

Eden Hazard fired Chelsea into the

FA Cup final as the Belgian’s blistering strike ensured Antonio Conte’s selection

gamble paid off in his side’s dramatic 4-2 win

over Tottenham yesterday. Blues boss Conte sprang

a major surprise by starting with Hazard and Diego Costa on the bench in the Wembley

semi-final as he looked ahead to the Premier League

leaders’ vital fixture against Southampton on Tuesday.

But Conte’s bold moves proved inspired as Hazard’s replacement Willian put Chelsea ahead early on and then restored their lead in the second half after Harry Kane’s equaliser.

Dele Alli levelled again for Tottenham, but Conte had all the answers and, when he sent on Hazard, the Belgian blasted Chelsea back into the lead.

Nemanja Matic’s thunderous long-range effort sealed a final date against Arsenal or Manchester City, who meet in the second semi-final today. 

Tottenham, losers yet again at Wembley and still without an FA Cup final appearance since 1991, need an immediate response in their midweek trip to Crystal Palace if they are to get revenge by pipping Chelsea to the title.

Breaking at pace, Chelsea worked the ball towards Batshuayi and his deft backheel sent Pedro surging clear. When the Spaniard was sent sprawling by Toby Alderweireld’s lunge, Chelsea

were hoping for a more severe punishment than the yellow card shown by referee Martin Atkinson.

But their frustration was short-lived as Willian stepped up to exact retribution from the free-kick, the Brazilian’s superb 20-yard strike eluding Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris before nestling into the far corner. Kane’s typically predatory finish drew them level in the 18th minute.

ExposedAs Christian Eriksen prepared to whip over a cross, Kane was already on the move and his awareness gave him a valuable extra yard of space on Chelsea defender Nathan Ake as he stooped to guide a delicate header past Thibaut Courtois.

But, despite controlling

possession for long periods, Pochettino’s side still ended the half behind as his decision to play Son Heung-Min out of position at left wingback was exposed in the 43rd minute.

Kante slipped a pass to Victor Moses and when the Nigerian’s surge into the penalty area was halted by Son’s rash tackle Atkinson gave the penalty on the advice of his linesman.

Batshuayi wanted to take it, but Conte demanded Willian step up and he stroked home the spot-kick in confident style. It could have been a major momentum changer, yet Tottenham were level again in the 52nd minute.

Barely looking up as he received the ball, Eriksen unfurled a majestic pass towards Alli, who timed his run perfectly to slide in front

of Luiz and direct a close-range finish past Courtois.

Conte responded by sending for the cavalry as Costa and Hazard came on for Willian and Batshuayi in the 61st minute, while Cesc Fabregas was introduced soon after. Once again, Conte’s instincts were spot on and the Italian’s changes brought the winner in the 75th minute.

Fabregas’s corner was only partially cleared and Hazard seized the ball just inside the area before drilling a blistering finish beyond Lloris.

If that was a memorable strike, there was even better to come five minutes later when Hazard teed up Matic and Serb’s thunderous 30-yard rocket sent Chelsea into raptures. (AFP)

Monte Carlo

Rafael Nadal beat David Goffin 6-3, 6-1 yesterday in a controversial

semi-final at the Monte Carlo Masters to put himself on the brink of a 10th title at the clay court showpiece.

The 30-year-old defending champion will face Spanish compatriot Albert Ramos-Vinolas, who defeated Lucas Pouille 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, in Sunday’s final.

Nadal is also chasing his first ATP title since last April in Barcelona and the 70th of his career.

“It’s tough to believe that I am again in a final here, it is unbelievable news for me,” Nadal said. “It’s another great event. 

“I’m be able to start the clay court season playing a final in one of the most important events of the year.

Personally, it’s a very special place for me. It’s something that makes me feel very happy. Very excited about it.”

Nadal has beaten 29-year-old Ramos-Vinolas in their two previous clashes, both times on clay in Barcelona.

“He’s playing better than ever, he’s winning huge matches during the whole week,” said Nadal of his next opponent. 

“He’s playing with big confidence, with great spirit of fight, overcoming tough situations in every match, and playing a high level of tennis all the time.

“I know that I need to be at my best to keep having chances, to fight for another title here. That’s what I am looking for.”

However, Saturday’s semi-final turned on a controversial incident in

the first set, when the chair umpire may have missed a ball mark and ended up awarding Nadal a point which denied Goffin a 4-2 lead in the opener.

The crowd turning against him, Nadal was the subject of whistles and jeers while the heart went out of Goffin who had made the semi-finals by seeing off world number two Novak Djokovic on Friday.

“When the umpire goes down and says the ball is good, what I can say? No, the ball is out?” Nadal said. “That’s why there is an umpire there. 

“If the ball is on my side, I see the ball is in, I give the ball to the other side? This (booing) for me is sometimes sad, especially in a place that I had a lot of success, in a place that I love. Sometimes that happens.” (AFP)

Nadal to face Vinolas

Hazard takes

Chelseainto final

Chelsea 4 Tottenham 2

Malaga 2 Valencia 0

Villarreal 2 Leganes 1

Osasuna 2 Sporting Gijon 2

Espanyol v Atletico Madrid (1845).

Atalanta v Bologna (1600),

Fiorentina v Inter Milan (1845)

Chelsea’s Brazilian mid-fielder Willian (L) cel-ebrates with Chelsea’s Brazilian defender David Luiz (C) and Chelsea’s Dutch defender Nathan Ake after scoring

Chelsea’s Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard celebrates scoring

Spain’s Rafael Nadal shakes hands with Belgium’s David Goffin

Sunday, April 23, 2017 23SPORTS

London

Eden Hazard fired Chelsea into the

FA Cup final as the Belgian’s blistering strike ensured Antonio Conte’s selection

gamble paid off in his side’s dramatic 4-2 win

over Tottenham yesterday. Blues boss Conte sprang

a major surprise by starting with Hazard and Diego Costa on the bench in the Wembley

semi-final as he looked ahead to the Premier League

leaders’ vital fixture against Southampton on Tuesday.

But Conte’s bold moves proved inspired as Hazard’s replacement Willian put Chelsea ahead early on and then restored their lead in the second half after Harry Kane’s equaliser.

Dele Alli levelled again for Tottenham, but Conte had all the answers and, when he sent on Hazard, the Belgian blasted Chelsea back into the lead.

Nemanja Matic’s thunderous long-range effort sealed a final date against Arsenal or Manchester City, who meet in the second semi-final today. 

Tottenham, losers yet again at Wembley and still without an FA Cup final appearance since 1991, need an immediate response in their midweek trip to Crystal Palace if they are to get revenge by pipping Chelsea to the title.

Breaking at pace, Chelsea worked the ball towards Batshuayi and his deft backheel sent Pedro surging clear. When the Spaniard was sent sprawling by Toby Alderweireld’s lunge, Chelsea

were hoping for a more severe punishment than the yellow card shown by referee Martin Atkinson.

But their frustration was short-lived as Willian stepped up to exact retribution from the free-kick, the Brazilian’s superb 20-yard strike eluding Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris before nestling into the far corner. Kane’s typically predatory finish drew them level in the 18th minute.

ExposedAs Christian Eriksen prepared to whip over a cross, Kane was already on the move and his awareness gave him a valuable extra yard of space on Chelsea defender Nathan Ake as he stooped to guide a delicate header past Thibaut Courtois.

But, despite controlling

possession for long periods, Pochettino’s side still ended the half behind as his decision to play Son Heung-Min out of position at left wingback was exposed in the 43rd minute.

Kante slipped a pass to Victor Moses and when the Nigerian’s surge into the penalty area was halted by Son’s rash tackle Atkinson gave the penalty on the advice of his linesman.

Batshuayi wanted to take it, but Conte demanded Willian step up and he stroked home the spot-kick in confident style. It could have been a major momentum changer, yet Tottenham were level again in the 52nd minute.

Barely looking up as he received the ball, Eriksen unfurled a majestic pass towards Alli, who timed his run perfectly to slide in front

of Luiz and direct a close-range finish past Courtois.

Conte responded by sending for the cavalry as Costa and Hazard came on for Willian and Batshuayi in the 61st minute, while Cesc Fabregas was introduced soon after. Once again, Conte’s instincts were spot on and the Italian’s changes brought the winner in the 75th minute.

Fabregas’s corner was only partially cleared and Hazard seized the ball just inside the area before drilling a blistering finish beyond Lloris.

If that was a memorable strike, there was even better to come five minutes later when Hazard teed up Matic and Serb’s thunderous 30-yard rocket sent Chelsea into raptures. (AFP)

Monte Carlo

Rafael Nadal beat David Goffin 6-3, 6-1 yesterday in a controversial

semi-final at the Monte Carlo Masters to put himself on the brink of a 10th title at the clay court showpiece.

The 30-year-old defending champion will face Spanish compatriot Albert Ramos-Vinolas, who defeated Lucas Pouille 6-3, 5-7, 6-1, in Sunday’s final.

Nadal is also chasing his first ATP title since last April in Barcelona and the 70th of his career.

“It’s tough to believe that I am again in a final here, it is unbelievable news for me,” Nadal said. “It’s another great event. 

“I’m be able to start the clay court season playing a final in one of the most important events of the year.

Personally, it’s a very special place for me. It’s something that makes me feel very happy. Very excited about it.”

Nadal has beaten 29-year-old Ramos-Vinolas in their two previous clashes, both times on clay in Barcelona.

“He’s playing better than ever, he’s winning huge matches during the whole week,” said Nadal of his next opponent. 

“He’s playing with big confidence, with great spirit of fight, overcoming tough situations in every match, and playing a high level of tennis all the time.

“I know that I need to be at my best to keep having chances, to fight for another title here. That’s what I am looking for.”

However, Saturday’s semi-final turned on a controversial incident in

the first set, when the chair umpire may have missed a ball mark and ended up awarding Nadal a point which denied Goffin a 4-2 lead in the opener.

The crowd turning against him, Nadal was the subject of whistles and jeers while the heart went out of Goffin who had made the semi-finals by seeing off world number two Novak Djokovic on Friday.

“When the umpire goes down and says the ball is good, what I can say? No, the ball is out?” Nadal said. “That’s why there is an umpire there. 

“If the ball is on my side, I see the ball is in, I give the ball to the other side? This (booing) for me is sometimes sad, especially in a place that I had a lot of success, in a place that I love. Sometimes that happens.” (AFP)

Nadal to face Vinolas

Hazard takes

Chelseainto final

Chelsea 4 Tottenham 2

Malaga 2 Valencia 0

Villarreal 2 Leganes 1

Osasuna 2 Sporting Gijon 2

Espanyol v Atletico Madrid (1845).

Atalanta v Bologna (1600),

Fiorentina v Inter Milan (1845)

Chelsea’s Brazilian mid-fielder Willian (L) cel-ebrates with Chelsea’s Brazilian defender David Luiz (C) and Chelsea’s Dutch defender Nathan Ake after scoring

Chelsea’s Belgian midfielder Eden Hazard celebrates scoring

Spain’s Rafael Nadal shakes hands with Belgium’s David Goffin

Sunday, April 23, 201724