Muhannad Mansour/DTNN [email protected] · 2017-02-26 · east bank. A week into a major push on...

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

200 FilsMonday, February 27, 2017 Issue No. 7305 Today’s Weather

Max Min

24°C 14°C

x

Le Pen blames media as Macron jumps in polls

Iraq forces in west Mosul aim for key bridge

Paris

French leader Marine Le Pen yesterday accused

the media of “campaigning hysterically” in favour of Emmanuel Macron, her centrist rival for the presidency, as polls showed him enjoying a jump.

Mosul

Iraqi forces battled jihadists in west Mosul

yesterday, aiming to build a bridge across the Tigris to establish an important supply route linked to the east bank. A week into a major push on the western side of the city, where 2,000 holdout jihadists and 750,000 civilians are trapped, government forces made steady progress.

BernieSanders@‏

I congratulate Tom Perez on his election as chair-man of the Democratic National Committee and look forward to working with him.

USD 194.7 m net profit for NBK-Bahrain

8P 07

Cop killed,

in terror attack

5Muhannad Mansour/[email protected]

Manama

A policeman was killed and five others were injured in

a terrorist attack that targeted security forces in the Southern Governorate yesterday.

Interior Ministry initially announced that four policemen sustained injuries when the police vehicle they were travelling was targeted by a blast near Jau village in the southern parts of the island.

The ministry confirmed that a police bus was targeted in the blast on King Hamad Highway near Jau, where the country’s main prison is located.

“A terrorist blast occurred in a police bus near Jau village. Four policemen were injured and they are in a stable condition. Necessary steps are being taken,” the ministry’s official page on Twitter said.

Few hours later, the General Director of Traffic Colonel Shaikh Abdulrahman bin Abdulwahab Al Khalifa announced that a traffic accident occurred on the same road, in the direction of Riffa, between two cars including a police patrol vehicle.

“The accident caused the death of the driver of the civilian car due to the injuries sustained in the accident. Legal steps were taken and the Public Prosecution was notified,” Col. Shaikh Abdulrahman stated. Sources confirmed that the deceased was an off-duty policeman Ahmed Busharar and the accident occurred as a result of the blast.

The Ministry later informed that another policeman was also injured in the blast, adding that a remotely controlled explosive device was used to trigger the blast.

Third blast in four days This is the third terrorist blast to be

reported since Thursday. DT News reported earlier that a Bahraini woman sustained multiple injuries on Thursday, as she coincidently passed near a blast site in Sanabis village, few kilometres to the west of central Manama. The blast reportedly targeted policemen securing the area. Another terror blast was reported on Friday night in Shakhura village in the Northern Governorate. A police patrol vehicle and two civilian cars were damaged in the incident. Interior Ministry confirmed that no human losses were reported. The increased attacks against security forces follow a recent Fatwa of Iran-based clerics calling for “armed resistance” against the Bahraini authorities. This was condemned by senior religious scholars here.

hurtAhmed Busharar

The site of the blast in which a policeman was killed yesterday

2 Monday, February 27, 2017

Medical Negligence: Panel begins visits to hospitalsDT News [email protected]

Manama

With the aim of enhancing supervision

on healthcare institutions in the country, a parliamentary committee yesterday commenced a series of field visits to public and private hospitals and health centres.

The visits will examine the quality of healthcare services provided in medical institutions and report on the causes behind the recent increase of medical negligence cases in the Kingdom, as stated earlier by MP Mohammed Al Maarifi, Head of the special parliamentary committee formed to investigate the

quality of medical services at public and private medical centres.

Committee members commenced their field visits by visiting the Psychiatric Hospital

in Salmaniya yesterday. The committee’s Deputy Chairman Jalal Kadhim stated yesterday

that committee members were briefed about the latest statistics of the hospital, in regards to the numbers of patients, visitors, staff and medications available.

The MPs discussed with the hospital’s administration members the main issues and challenges facing the facility, including the shortage of staff and beds, in addition to the lack of several important

medications.Kadhim said the visit

included the patients’ records department, pharmacy, consultants, prisoners and addicts’ rehabilitation department and other sections of the hospital.

In addition to Al Maarifi and Kadhim, committee members include MPs Mohsin Al Bakri, Osama Al Khaja, Theyab Al Nuaimi and Fatima Al Asfoor.

The visits will examine the quality of healthcare services and the causes

behind the recent increase in medical negligence cases in the Kingdom

DT News NetworkManama

The Shura Council convened its special session yesterday,

presided over by Chairman Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, and referred the bill of amendment of the Kingdom’s Constitution and its Explanatory Memorandum associated with Royal Decree 7/2017 to the Council’s Legislation and Legal Affairs Committee.

The chairman opened the session by affirming that the quorum to hold the session was attained. The bill was received by the Shura Council on February 22 after the Council of Representatives discussed it on February 21 during the third session of the fourth legislative

term which was referred to Parliament by HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa the Prime Minister following its endorsement by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to amend the Kingdom’s

Constitution pursuant to the provision of Articles 33/C, 35/A and 120 of the Kingdom’s Constitution. The Shura held its special session yesterday in compliance with article 88 of its statute to explain the dimensions of the said bill of constitutional amendment and the decision of the Council of Representatives. The proposed bill of constitutional amendment suggests the replacement for Article One in the Constitution with a new text Clause B of Article 105 regarding the regulation of the military judiciary and its jurisdictions in the BDF, National Guard and Public Security in addition to an executive article.

Constitutional Amendment bill referred to legal panel

The bill was already endorsed

by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa to

amend the Kingdom’s

Constitution

Committee members during their visit to the Psychiatric Hospital in Salmaniya yesterday

The special session of Shura Council held yesterday

3Monday, February 27, 2017

We aim to make a positive difference in our customers’ lives by providing fast, safe and convenient services every time!

SEND OR EXCHANGE MONEY AT GREAT RATES, GUARANTEED!

• Worldwide Money Transfer • Online Money Transfer• Currency Exchange• Bill Payments• Corporate Payments• Payroll Services• Wholesale Services

/BFCBahrain /BFCBahrainTel: 1722 8888 | www.bfc.com.bh

JO3082_BFC_DT_Ads_18cmX26cm_Generic_Services.indd 1 2/1/17 3:30 PM

Muhannad Mansour/[email protected]

Manama

A veteran lawmaker has called upon the

Government to reconsider entry granted to certain nationalities that have been frequently involved in unethical activities in Bahrain.

In the efforts to combat vice in the country, the Second Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Abdulhalim Murad demanded the authorities to reconsider providing entry visas to nationalities proven to misuse such facilities to conduct immoral activities here.

“The authorities should reassess the entry procedures

of nationalities being continuously involved in immoral activities. This situation should be addressed according to the laws and regulations to protect the Bahraini society,” said Murad.

The MP’s proposal comes

as Bahrain offers entry to nationals of 114 countries, with less requirements.

It has been revealed that some nationalities, mainly European and Asian, are misusing visa procedures to enter and work in prostitution rackets and

other illegal activities. Demanding an immediate

action against it, Murad said, that immoral practices are being carried out by some nationalities.

These acts are against the kingdom’s laws and regulations. This has a huge damage on the society.

“The Bahraini society is known for its good manners and commitment to the Islam teachings. Our society is based on religious instructions. The second article of the Kingdom’s constitution stipulates that Islam shall be the religion of the State, Islamic Sharia a main source of legislation, and Arabic the official language,” legislator Abdulhalim Murad added.

Prevent immoral traffic, Govt urged

MP Murad

Bahraini to showcase art works in DubaiDT News ServiceManama

Bahraini artist Leena Al Ayoobi will showcase a

unique fusion of the Bahraini folklore with the Japanese manga when she holds her first solo exhibition next month in Dubai.

“It will be an artistic breakthrough and will combine the Bahraini folklore and the art of Japanese manga in a unique homogeneous mixture,” she said.

“The fusion will bring together the civilisations of the Arabian Peninsula and the Land of the Rising Sun,” she said.

The exhibition from March 13-April 6 at the Citizen E Gallery in the Design District will feature 30 paintings, Leena said.

The gallery, characterised by its “open mind”, “creative space” and its policy of “allowing the expression of art forms outside the traditional

forms”, seems to be the perfect place for Leena to display her innovative work.

The artist has been displaying her artwork since 2014 and in the following year, she was among the 35 Bahraini artists who showcased their artistic creations at the fourth edition of the Bahraini Female Artists Annual Exhibition.

“I have been drawing since an early age, mainly female characters from children’s translated TV shows,” Leena said.

She recalls her first public exhibition with candid fondness. “It was a highly significant moment for me and I was truly elated to see people show interest in my work.”

She perceived the success as “a wonderful motivation to expand further in exploring art.”

“I have many plans for this year and I look forward to living through vibrant and successful times,” she said.

Monday, February 27, 20174DT News NetworkManama

The Supreme Appeals Court has upheld

the jail sentences awarded against two Bahraini men accused in connection with peddling illicit drugs near a mosque. The first convicted man was earlier handed down ten years behind bars along with BD5000 while the second man was given

one year in prison along with BD3000 fine.

According to court files, police officers received a tip-off about the 28-year-old first defendant’s activities. And then an undercover police officer contacted him, requesting to buy heroin cigarettes from him for BD60. The 28-year-old asked the officer to meet him near a mosque to hand him

the ordered drugs. Police officers didn’t arrest the man even after the operation completed, but opted to track him instead. He then met the second defendant, aged 55, and he delivered to him heroine cigarettes. Police officers then nabbed both. The first defendant was charged with peddling while the second accused was indicted of consuming.

Jail sentence against drug peddlers upheld

DT News [email protected]

Manama

Narcotics worth over BD40,000 was seized

from two Asian men in a recent drug bust. The suspects were caught with heroin capsules and Shabu packets, ready for selling. Forty heroin capsules and

24 packets of Shabu worth BD41,000 along with cash were seized.

“One of the suspects possessed and sold drugs. A probe led to his arrest on the Bahraini side of King Fahad Causeway,” said Criminal Investigation and Forensic Science General Director Colonel Abddulaziz Mayoof Al Rumaihi.

Narcotics seized


Expatriate fishermen languishing in Iran jail

31 December 31December 2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD‘000 ASSETS CashandbalanceswiththeCentralBankofBahrain 16,936 30,202Duefrombanksandotherfinancialinstitutions 643,671 465,633DuefromotherofficesoftheBank 125,139 258,350Available-for-saleinvestments 2,347,588 1,707,482Loansandadvancestocustomers 1,937,404 1,507,895Interestreceivableandotherassets 38,597 26,829Propertyandequipment 8,006 8,022 TOTAL ASSETS 5,117,341 4,004,413 LIABILITIES AND HEAD OFFICE FUNDS Liabilities Duetobanksandotherfinancialinstitutions 1,002,544 925,144DuetootherofficesoftheBank 827,345 357,431Customers’deposits 2,741,836 2,286,639Interestpayableandotherliabilities 45,186 29,302 Total liabilities 4,616,911 3,598,516 Head Office funds Capital 6,885 6,885UnremittedprofitduetoHeadOffice 470,809 397,394Cumulativechangesinfairvalues 22,736 1,618 Total Head Office funds 500,430 405,897

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND HEAD OFFICE FUNDS 5,117,341 4,004,413

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION At 31 December 2016

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD‘000OPERATING ACTIVITIES Profitfortheyear 73,415 64,207Adjustmentsfornon-cashitems: Depreciation 58 70 Reversalofprovision (2) (4) Operatingprofitbeforechangesinoperating assetsandliabilities 73,471 64,273 Changesinoperatingassetsandliabilities: BalanceswiththeCentralBankofBahrain (6,950) 53,552 Duefrombanksandotherfinancialinstitutions withoriginalmaturityofninetydaysandabove 10,948 (103,208) DuefromotherofficesoftheBank withoriginalmaturityofninetydaysandabove (6,269) (152,244) Loansandadvancestocustomers (429,507) (338,417) Interestreceivableandotherassets (11,768) (4,120) Duetobanksandotherfinancialinstitutions 77,400 (123,702) DuetootherofficesoftheBank 469,914 (236,183) Customers’deposits 455,197 327,063 Interestpayableandotherliabilities 15,884 13,202 Netcashfrom(usedin)operatingactivities 648,320 (499,784) INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchaseofpropertyandequipment (42) (46)Purchaseofavailable-for-saleinvestments (1,084,202) (286,846)Proceedsfromredemptionorsaleofavailable-for-sale 465,214 39,208 Netcashusedininvestingactivities (619,030) (247,684) INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 29,290 (747,468) Cashandcashequivalentsat1January 658,489 1,405,957CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 687,779 658,489 2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD‘000

Additional cash flow information Interestreceived 125,992 103,898Interestpaid 48,536 39,635

Retail Banking Branch - Kingdom of Bahrain

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD‘000 Interestandsimilarincome 137,292 108,358Interestexpenseandsimilarexpenses (64,856) (45,125) Net interest income 72,436 63,233Feesandcommissionsincome-net 2,148 2,661Foreignexchangegains-net 2,472 1,339Gainonsaleofavailable-for-saleinvestments - 415Otherincome 64 27 Operating income 77,120 67,675 Staffcosts 2,369 2,318Depreciation 58 70Otheroperatingexpenses 1,278 1,080 Totaloperatingexpenses 3,705 3,468

PROFIT FOR THE YEAR 73,415 64,207

STATEMENT OF INCOMEFor the year ended 31 December 2016

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSFor the year ended 31 December 2016

TheaboveextractsarefromtheauditedfinancialssignedbyErnst&Young,Bahrainonwhichanunqualifiedaudit

reportwasissueddated16thFebruary2017.

AliYFardanIsamJasemAlSagerGeneralManagerGroupChiefExecutiveOfficer

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN HEAD OFFICE FUNDS For the year ended 31 December 2016

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEFor the year ended 31 December 2016

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD‘000Profit for the year 73,415 64,207 Other comprehensive profit/ (loss) that will be reclassified to statement of income in subsequent years: Changeinfairvalueofavailable-for-saleinvestments-net 21,118 (4,045) TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 94,533 60,162

Unremitted Cumulative profitdueto changesin Total Capital HeadOffice fairvalues reserves BD‘000 BD‘000 BD‘000 BD‘000

Balanceat1January2015 6,885 333,187 5,663 345,735 Profitfortheyear - 64,207 - 64,207Othercomprehensivelossfortheyear - - (4,045) (4,045) Balanceat31December2015 6,885 397,394 1,618 405,897 Profitfortheyear - 73,415 - 73,415Othercomprehensiveprofitfortheyear - - 21,118 21,118Balance at 31 December 2016 6,885 470,809 22,736 500,430


Thirty Indian expatriate fishermen, who were

arrested by Iran Navy last year, are still languishing in a jail on Kish Island in the Arabian Gulf. Of these 30 fishermen, 15 were working for Bahrain while the rest of them were engaged in fishing for Dubai companies. The fishermen who went from Bahrain are identified as George (35), Kiruba (39), Varghese Varma (42), Sreejith (30), Antony Jacob (30), Ravi (36), Sirinu (29), Kenneday (45), Sagar (30), Cloudin (49), Saleth Raja (33), Vincent (30), Antony (30), Prasanth (26) and

Rajesh Kumar (35). They hail from Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli and Ramanathapuram districts in the Indian state of Tamil

Nadu. These fishermen went for fishing from Bahrain and were arrested on October 20, 2016 by the Iran Navy on charges of encroaching into their waters.

The other 15 fishermen who worked for Dubai companies

were arrested on December 27, 2016 by the Iran Navy on charges of encroaching into their waters and kept them in the same Kish Island. All these Dubai fishermen are from Ramanathapuram district , Tamil Nadu. Justin Antony,

President of International Fishermen Development Trust (INFIDET) has urged the Indian embassy in Iran to take necessary steps to get them released from jail.

“ As these detained fishermen are languishing without basic facilities, food, water and medicine on the island and their families to whom these fishermen are the only bread winners are worried, and are very eager to know the status of the fishermen,” Justin Antony said.

“Our Mission in Tehran is working on the matter for their repatriation. The embassy has taken up the matter with our embassy in Tehran to expedite the case,” the Indian embassy in Bahrain said in response to a query by INFIDET.

Expat commits suicideDT News NetworkManama

An Indian expatriate was found dead in his room

last night. Rijeesh Meethala Madathil (40) was a salesman at Havana Market Seef branch. His body was found hanging in his room in Manama, near Shiffa Hospital. He hails from the Vadakara in the Indian state of Kerala. His body is kept in Salmaniya Medical Complex hospital morgue. He was working in the company for around six years. The Indian Community Relief

Fund (ICRF) coordinator John Philip said necessary help will be provided to repatriate the body.


An Indian expatriate was found dead in Salmabad

area. Mahipal Reddy Baddam (43), son of Baddam Yatta Reddy, was a heavy vehicle driver at Alhaj Hassan Group. His body is kept at Salmaniya Medical Complex hospital morgue. The Indian Community Relief Fund

(ICRF) has initiated steps to help repatriate the body.

Expat found dead

Rijeesh Meethala Madathil

The fishermen languishing in jail in Kish Island

Mahipal Reddy Baddam


NASS CORPORATION BSCCONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION as at 31 December 2016

NASS CORPORATION BSC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME for the year ended 31 December 2016

NASS CORPORATION BSC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSfor the year ended 31 December 2016

NASS CORPORATION BSC CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY for the year ended 31 December 2016

2016 2015ASSETS Property, plant and equipment 22,744 17,842Held to maturity investments 295 -Investment property - 1,500Investment in associates 349 307Interests in joint ventures 476 576

Total non-current assets 23,864 20,225 Inventories 7,261 5,855Assets held for sale 2,348 -Trade and other receivables 57,045 47,405Due from contract customers 7,591 9,850Due from related parties 7,579 3,381Deposits with banks 6,137 6,699Cash and cash equivalents 16,936 17,036

Total current assets 104,897 90,226

Total assets 128,761 110,451

EQUITY Share capital 22,000 22,000Treasury shares (1,597) (1,597)Statutory reserve 7,988 7,684Retained earnings 29,408 27,753Donations and charity reserve 35 31Equity attributable to equity holders of the parent 57,834 55,871Non-controlling interest 2,296 2,121

Total equity 60,130 57,992 Liabilities Bank loans 489 310Employee benefits 5,957 5,277

Total non-current liabilities 6,446 5,587 Trade and other payables 40,549 30,960Due to contract customers 5,162 2,084Employee benefits 2,920 2,313Due to related parties 6,810 4,654Bills payable 1,469 1,843Bank loans 862 1,576Bank overdrafts 4,413 3,442

Total current liabilities 62,185 46,872

Total liabilities 68,631 52,459

Total equity and liabilities 128,761 110,451

2016 2015 Revenue 135,818 99,284 Cost of sales (121,087) (85,246)

Gross profit 14,731 14,038Other income 688 443Gain on disposal of investment property 637 -General and administrative expenses (12,740) (11,990)Finance income 178 154Finance cost (266) (211)Share of profit from joint ventures, net 238 515Share of profit from associate 92 76 Profit for the year 3,558 3,025 Other comprehensive income - - Total comprehensive income for the year 3,558 3,025 Profit for the year attributable to: Equity holders of the parent 3,044 2,668Non-controlling interest 514 357

3,558 3,025 Total comprehensive income for the year attributable to: Equity holders of the parent 3,044 2,668Non-controlling interest 514 357 3,558 3,025

Earnings per share Basic earnings per share (Fils) 14.15 12.40

2016 2015Cash flows from operating activities Profit for the year 3,558 3,025Adjustments for: Depreciation 4,274 4,000Impairment of trade receivables (net) 971 601Impairment of due from customers 659 -Amortization of held to maturity investment 5 -Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment (219) (159)Gain on disposal of investment property (637) -Share of profit from joint ventures, net (238) (515)Share of profit from associate (92) (76)Employee benefits 680 707 Changes in: Inventories (1,406) (310)Trade and other receivables (13,359) (3,998)Due from contract customers 1,600 (5,097)Due from related parties (4,198) 845Trade and other payables 11,024 12,786Due to contract customers 3,078 (2,950)Employee benefits 607 463Due to related parties 2,156 53Bills payable (374) 607 Net cash from operating activities 8,089 9,982 Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property, plant and equipment (9,403) (3,592)Purchase of held to maturity investment (300) -Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment 446 244Proceeds from sale of investment property 1,100 -Interests in joint ventures 338 -Investment in associates 50 149Deposits with banks 562 4,890 Net cash (used in) / from investing activities (7,207) 1,691 Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from bank loans 1,744 2,335Repayment of bank loans (2,279) (2,015)Dividends paid to equity shareholders of the parent (1,073) (3,164)Dividends paid to non-controlling shareholders (339) (229)Donations paid (6) (8) Net cash used in financing activities (1,953) (3,081) Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents (1,071) 8,592Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 13,594 5,002 Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December 12,523 13,594

Share Treasury Statutory Retained Donations Non- Total capital Shares reserve earnings and charity Total controlling equity reserve interestAt 1 January 2016 22,000 (1,597) 7,684 27,753 31 55,871 2,121 57,992

Profit and total comprehensive income for the year - - - 3,044 - 3,044 514 3,558

Transfer to statutory reserve for 2016 - - 304 (304) - - - -

2015 Appropriations: Final dividend (5 %) - - - (1,075) - (1,075) (339) (1,414)Donations and charity reserve - - - (10) 10 - - - Utilization of donation and charity reserve - - - - (6) (6) - (6)

At 31 December 2016 22,000 (1,597) 7,988 29,408 35 57,834 2,296 60,130

Share Treasury Statutory Retained Donations Non- Total capital Shares reserve earnings and charity Total controlling equity reserve interestAt 1 January 2015 22,000 (1,597) 7,417 28,588 29 56,437 1,993 58,430 Profit and total comprehensive income for the year - - - 2,668 - 2,668 357 3,025Transfer to statutory reserve for 2015 - - 267 (267) - - - -

2014 Appropriations: Final dividend (15 %) - - - (3,226) - (3,226) (229) (3,455) Donations and charity reserve - - - (10) 10 - - - Utilization of donation and charity reserve - - - - (8) (8) - (8) At 31 December 2015 22,000 (1,597) 7,684 27,753 31 55,871 2,121 57,992

Attributable to equity holders of the parent Attributable to equity holders of the parent

Bahraini Dinars ’000

Bahraini Dinars ’000 Bahraini Dinars ’000

Bahraini Dinars ’000 Bahraini Dinars ’000

20152016

Sameer Abdulla Nass Sami Abdulla Nass Chairman Deputy Chairman & Managing Director

The above statements have been extracted from the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2016 which have been audited by KPMG Fakhro.Date: 26 Feb 2017

The consolidated financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 26 February 2017 and signed on its behalf by:

Works Ministry bagsfirst prize in BahrainGarden Show 2017

Bomb hoax: Jail terms confirmedDT News NetworkManama

Five persons implicated in a bomb hoax case have had

their prison sentences upheld by the Court.

Earlier, two of them received five years behind bars each, while the rest were given three years in prison each.

According to court files, the defendants had initially rioted in Daih village, and they

rounded off their vandalism acts by planting a fake bomb before they fled the scene.

Police officers called explosive experts when they saw the device, but they declared it later as a fake explosive.

Detectives established the involvement of the defendants in the incident after human cells lifted from the scene found to be matching to that of the defendants.

Expat falls to deathDT News NetworkManama

An expatriate worker from Bangladesh died after

falling from a building in Manama. Mohammed Salim Ali Mohammed Ziarot Ali (30) was a worker in a company but, according to LMRA website, his employment visa was not valid. His body is kept at Salmaniya Medical Complex hospital morgue. He died while doing maintenance work in the building. Further details are not available.


The Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning

Ministry has won the first prize of Bahrain International Garden Show patronized by Wife of His Majesty the King, Supreme Council for Women Chairwoman and Chairperson of the Advisory Board of the National Initiative for the Development of the Agricultural Sector HRH Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa.

The ministry’s pavilion was

voted as the ‘best government awareness one’ by the jury.

Works Minister Essam Abdullah Khalaf highlighted Princess Sabeeka’s efforts in promoting the agricultural sector and pointed out the ministry’s commitment to implement a number of agricultural projects and increasing green spaces, in cooperation with the municipalities. He noted the ministry’s strategy to build national capacities in agricultural development and support small farmers. An official from the Works Ministry receiving the award Mohammed salim

BUSINESS BUSINESSMonday, February 27, 2017 7

2016 (Audited) Head office Stock option AFS fair Unremitted Total account reserve value reserve profit At 1 January 4,540 207 (1) 11,240 15,986 Profit for the year - - - 4,206 4,206 Other comprehensive income (Available-for-sale securities): Net change in fair value - - (6) - (6)Total other comprehensive income - - (6) - (6)Total comprehensive income for the year - - (6) 4,206 4,200 Remittance during the year - - - (5,582) (5,582)Change in stock options reserve - 1 - - 1 At 31 December 4,540 208 (7) 9,864 14,605 2015 (Audited) Head office Stock option AFS fair Unremitted Total account reserve value reserve profit At 1 January 4,540 207 209 13,383 18,339 Profit for the year - - - 5,585 5,585 Other comprehensive income (Available-for-sale securities): Net change in fair value - - (210) - (210)Total other comprehensive income - - (210) - (210)Total comprehensive income for the year - - (210) 5,585 5,375 Remittance during the year - - - (7,728) (7,728) At 31 December 4,540 207 (1) 11,240 15,986

ASSETS 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15 (Audited) (Audited)Cash and bank balances 10,841 29,624 Available for sale securities 66,552 31,324 Loans and advances to non-banks 66,249 71,892 Due from group entities 57,859 38,786 Interest accrued 255 234 Other assets 7,327 5,023 Total assets 209,083 176,883LIABILITIES AND HEAD OFFICE FUNDS 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15Head office account 4,540 4,540 Reserves 201 206 Unremitted profit 9,864 11,240 Total Head Office Funds 14,605 15,986 Due to group entities 40,026 16,130 Deposits by banks 784 979 Deposits by non-banks 147,613 138,318 Interest accrued 82 73 Other liabilities 5,973 5,397 Total Liabilities 194,478 160,897

Total liabilities and Head Office funds 209,083 176,883 MEMORANDUM ITEMS 30,913 28,622 STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS for the year ended 31 December 2016 BD’000s 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15 (Audited) (Audited) Interest income 13,855 13,124 Interest expense (943) (618)Net interest income 12,912 12,506 Other income 4,259 5,350 TOTAL INCOME 17,171 17,856 Staff cost 2,828 3,113 Other operating expense 7,219 7,079 Loan impairment change (net of recoveries) 2,918 2,079 TOTAL EXPENSES 12,965 12,271 PROFIT FOR THE YEAR 4,206 5,585 STATEMENT OF OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEfor the year ended 31 December 2016 BD’000s 31-Dec-16 31-Dec-15 (Audited) (Audited) Profit for the year 4,206 5,585 Other comprehensive income Available-for-sale securities: Net fair value change (6) (210)Total other comprehensive income for the year (6) (210) Total comprehensive income for the year 4,200 5,375

OPERATING ACTIVITIES Profit for the year 4,206 5,585 Adjustment for: Depreciation and amortization 101 320 Net impaiment on loans and advances 2,918 2,079 Net interest income (12,912) (12,506)Dividend income (56) (19)Foreign exchange gains (658) (740) Cash flows before changes in operating assets and liabilities (6,401) (5,281) CHANGES IN OPERATING ASSETS AND LIABILITIES: Loans and advances to non-banks 2,725 (4,139)Deposits by banks (195) 332 Deposits by non- banks 9,295 (1,038)Other Assets/ Other Liabilities 300 (657)Central Bank of Bahrain reserve balance (234) (137)Cash flows after changes in operating assets and liabilities: 11,891 (5,639) Interest Received 13,833 13,174 Interest Paid (934) (589) Net Cash from operating activities 18,389 1,665 CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Aquisition of equipment (2,133) (121)Acquisition of treasury bills and bonds - (66,300)Proceeds from maturity of treasury bills and bonds - 131,506 Dividend received 56 19 Net Cash (used in)/ from investing activities (2,077) 65,104 CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Profit remitted to Head Office (5,582) (7,728) (5,582) (7,728)Net Cash used in financing activities Net change in cash and cash equivalents 10,730 59,041 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 79,570 19,789 Effect of currency fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents 658 740 Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year 90,958 79,570 Cash and cash equivalents are included in the following: Cash and bank balances 6,597 25,614 Available -for-sale securities 66,528 31,300 Due from group entities 57,859 38,786 Due to group entities (40,026) (16,130) 90,958 79,570

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONas at 31 December 2016 BD’000s

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN HEAD OFFICE FUNDSfor the year ended 31 December 2016 BD’000s

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSfor the year ended 31 December 2016 BD’000s

The financial statements were approved by the management on 22 February 2016 and signed on its behalf by:

Usman AhmedChief Executive Officer

Nader MoosaConsumer Business Senior

Sa’ed FoudehChief Financial Officer

Citibank, N.A. - Retail Bank - Bahrain Branch

The published figures have been extracted from financial statements audited by KPMG, who expressed an unqualified audit opinion on 22 February 2017

31-Dec-16(Audited)

31-Dec-15 (Audited)

Licensed by CBB as a Retail Bank

The Board of Directors of Nass Corporation BSC in their meeting held on 26th February 2017 resolved to recommend a cash dividend distribution of 5% of the issued share capital (5 fils per share) amounting to BD 1,075,384.200 for the financial year ended 31st December 2016 to the registered shareholders appearing in the company shareholders’ register on the Annual General Meeting (AGM) date, subject to obtaining necessary shareholders and regulatory authorities approval.

Sameer Abdulla NassChairman

NASS CORPORATION B.S.C.

RECOMMENDATION FOR DISTRIBUTION OF DIVIDEND FOR THE YEAR 2016

Al-Sager

National Bank of Kuwait-Bahrain (NBK Bahrain),

the branch of NBK Group in Bahrain, reported net profits of USD 194.735 million (BHD 73.415 m) for the year 2016 compared with USD 170.3 m (BHD 64.2 m) in 2015, a growth of 14 percent year-on-year(y-o-y).

As of end of 2016, NBK-Bahrain’s total assets increased by 28 pc y-o-y to USD 13.575 billion, compared with USD 10.621 bn in 2015, while total shareholders’ equity increased 23 pc y-o-y to USD 1.327 bn. Customer deposits reached USD 7.272 bn, up by USD 1.207 bn or 20 pc y-o-y.

“NBK-Bahrain continues its solid performance despite the challenging environment. The strong results affirm the success of NBK Group’s regional expansion strategy that is built on a culture of prudence and strict risk management practices,” Isam Al-Sager, NBK Group Chief Executive Officer said.

“We are successfully proceeding in strengthening our position as a leading

regional bank. NBK’s subsidiaries continue to deliver strong results contributing positively to the Group’s profitability and adding value to the growth in our business,”Al-Sager added.

Ali Fardan, NBK-Bahrain General Manager said: “This strong performance reflects our conservative management as we have consistently focused on our core business and ways to diversify sources of income. We continue to grow our operations locally by developing new products to serve our customers.”

“NBK has been present in Bahrain since 1977 and enjoys strong and historical relationships with the major Bahraini and international companies,” he added.

“NBK continues to enjoy collectively one of the highest ratings among all banks in the Middle East. The Bank’s ratings are supported by its high capitalization, prudent lending policies, and its disciplined approach to risk management. NBK was also named among Global Finance’s list of the 50 safest banks in the world for the eleventh consecutive time.”

USD 194.7 m net profit for NBK-Bahrain

Isam Al Sager Ali Fardan

BUSINESS8 Monday, February 27, 2017


Bahrain Financing Company, opened its 47th branch

yesterday in the Wadi Al Sail Mall at West Riffa.

The branch which will be open 9 am to 10 pm, seven days a week, offers BFC’s diverse range of fast and reliable international money transfer products, including EzRemit and MoneyGram, plus a choice of over 60 global currencies to buy or sell at market leading exchange rates.

The first 100 lucky customers to transact at the branch won gold coins.

The Wadi Al Sail Mall will also have its first BFC Exchange outlet catering especially to the people of that region.

Commenting on BFC’s

move into the Wadi Al Sail Mall, Pancily Varkay, General Manager of BFC Group said: “We always want to be near our customers and provide

them with convenient branch locations. The Wadi Al Sail mall is an addition to Bahrain’s burgeoning retail sector and will be a new destination for

the residents of Riffa. Our idea is to provide superior quality service to existing and future customers from Riffa and the surrounding region.”

BFC opens new branch

BFC officials inaugurating the new branch at Wadi Al Sail Mall

Riyadh

Saudi Arabia yesterday launched a parallel equity

market designed to boost small and medium enterprises that closed up 20 percent, the maximum allowed in a single day, brokers said.

The index on the parallel market, Nomu, listing seven companies, closed at 6,000 points with trading of 256 million Saudi riyals (about $67 m).

Argaam, a Saudi economic website, put the total capitalisation of the seven companies trading on Nomu at 1.8 m riyals ($479 m).

The companies listed are Raydan Restaurants, Baazeem Trading Company, Arab Sea, Al Omran Trading, Abdullah Saad Abo Moati, Food

Development Company and Al Samaani Metal.

Argaam said Baazeem was the most active yesterday with 2.2 m shares trading hands.

To be listed on Nomu, companies must have a market value of at least 10 m riyals ($2.7 m), a minimum of 35-50 shareholders and at least 20 pc of shares publicly owned.

Firms listing on the oil-rich kingdom’s main stock market -- the Tadawul -- must have minimum capitalisation of 100 m riyals, or 10 times that of the new platform.

Nomu’s launch was announced last Monday by Tadawul which said the new equity market was “an alternative trading platform with lighter listing requirements”.(AFP)

Saudi stock market opens with 20 pc gains

Nokia relaunches 3310 model

Barcelona

Finnish brand Nokia, a former mobile star,

yesterday launched three new Android smartphones and unveiled a revamped version of its iconic 3310 model more than a decade after it was phased out.

Unlike the original, which was known for its sturdiness, the new Nokia 3310 will allow web browsing.

The new version will bring back its predecessor’s popular “Snake” game and distinctive ringtones, said Arto Nummela, the head of Finnish start-up HMD Global which will produce the phone under a licensing agreement with Nokia.

“The telephone will allow you to talk for 22 hours, ten times more than the original,” he said during a presentation in Barcelona on the eve of the start of the Mobile World Congress, the world’s biggest mobile phone show. Launched in 2000, Nokia’s original 3310 sold nearly 120 million units worldwide before it was discontinued in 2005, making it one of the world’s best-selling mobile phones.(AFP)

HMD global CEO Arto Nummela presents “Nokia 3310”

BUSINESSMonday, February 27, 2017 9

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD ‘000

ASSETS Cash and balances with the Central Bank of Bahrain 10,979 11,449 Placements and balances with banks 12,190 12,155 Investments 10,319 794 Loans and advances 28,410 28,484 Other assets 1,154 449 Equipment 63 79 TOTAL ASSETS 63,115 53,410 LIABILITIES AND HEAD OFFICE FUNDS Liabilities Deposit from other offices of the Bank 2,302 3,468 Deposits from customers 50,341 39,766 Other liabilities 783 592 53,426 43,826 Head Office Funds Capital 2,000 2,000 Reserve 1,500 1,500 Unremitted profit due to Head Office 6,174 6,084 Fair value reserve for Available for sale investments 15 - 9,689 9,584

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND HEAD OFFICE FUNDS 63,115 53,410

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD ‘000

Interest income 2,257 1,930 Interest expense (693) (602) Net interest income 1,564 1,328 Other income 570 539

Net operating income 2,134 1,867 Staff expenses (716) (701) Rent and utilities (155) (155) Depreciation (32) (31) Other operating expenses (306) (281) Total expenses (1,209) (1,168)

Profit for the year before recoveries 925 699

(Impairment)/recoveries of credit losses (458) 60

PROFIT FOR THE YEAR 467 759

Other comprehensive income: Other comprehensive loss to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods: Fair valuereserves (available-for-sale investment): Net changes in fair value during the year 15 - TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 482 759

Retail Branch - Kingdom of Bahrain

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONAt 31 December 2016

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOMEFor the year ended 31 December 2016

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWSFor the year ended 31 December 2016

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN HEAD OFFICE FUNDS For the year ended 31 December 2016

2016 2015 BD ‘000 BD ‘000 OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net profit for the year 467 759 Adjustments: Depreciation 32 31

(Impairment)/recoveries of credit losses 458 (60) Accretion of premium 78 - 1,035 730

Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Mandatory reserve with the CBB (160) 28 Loans and advances (384) (2,149) Other assets (705) 22 Deposits from customers 10,575 152 Deposits from other offices of the Bank (1,166) 3,462 Other liabilities 191 (76) Placements with original maturity of more than ninety days - (754)

Net cash from operating activities 9,386 1,415 INVESTING ACTIVITIES Purchase of investments (9,588) - Proceeds from realisation of investments - 2,099 Purchase of equipments (16) (14) Net cash from investing activities (9,604) 2,085

FINANCING ACTIVITY Profit remitted to Head Office (377) (943)

Net cash from financing activity (377) (943) NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (595) 2,557 Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January 10,484 7,927

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 9,889 10,484

BD ‘000 BD ‘000 BD ‘000 BD ‘000 BD ‘000 At 1 January 2016 2,000 1,500 - 6,084 9,584 Net profit for the year - - - 467 467 Other comprehensive gain for the year 15 - 15 Profit remitted to Head Office - - - (377) (377) At 31 December 2016 2,000 1,500 15 6,174 9,689 At 1 January 2015 2,000 1,500 - 6,268 9,768 Net profit for the year - - - 759 759 Profit remitted to Head Office - - - (943) (943) At 31 December 2015 2,000 1,500 - 6,084 9,584

Capital Reserve Total

The above figures have been extracted from the Financial Statements audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers ME Limited, Kingdom of Bahrain, who expressed an unqualified opinion on 27 February 2017.

Availablefor sale reserve

Unremittedprofit due to Head Office

Nass Corporationposts BD 3.044 mnet profit for 2016DT News NetworkManama

Nass Corporation achieved a gross turnover of BD

135.818 million for the year ended 31st December 2016 (BD 99.284 m for 2015) up by 37 pc year-on-year (YoY). The company, in 2016, achieved a net profit of BD 3.044 m (BD 2.668 m for 2015) up by 14 pc YoY.

The gross turnover achieved for Q4 2016 was BD 44.376 m (BD 26.702 m for Q4 2015) up by 66pc Quarter on quarter (QOQ) on which it has incurred a net loss of BD 1.141 m (net profit BD 1.086 m for Q4 2015) down by 205 pc QOQ.

Nass Corporation B.S.C, Chairman, Mr. Sameer Abdulla Nass announced the results as the Nass Corporation Board of Directors met yesterday to

review the financial results of the company for the 2016.

“2016 was challenging as turnover growth translated into only a marginal growth in profit in view of the challenges posed by the adverse macro-economic factors. The Board of

Directors are recommending a dividend of 5 fils per share i.e. 5 pc of issued share capital, subject to approval of the shareholders in the annual ordinary general assembly meeting and regulatory approval,” said Nass.


Al Baraka Bank Syria, a subsidiary banking

unit of Al Baraka Banking Group B.S.C has become the first bank in Syria to receive a performance statement certificate in accordance with International Standard for Social Responsibility (ISO26000: 2010) at advanced grade (4 of 5), based on a assessment conducted by SGS International.

“The achievement highlights the Bank’s commitment to assume full responsibility for all of its activities, and their impact on society and the environment while contributing to the sustainable development process for all segments of Syrian society,” Chairman of Al Baraka Bank Syria and the President & Chief Executive of Al Baraka Banking Group Adnan Ahmed Yousif said.

“The application of the standard will help achieve higher credibility for the Bank as a socially responsible

institution, in addition to strengthening the competitive advantage in the banking market, and maintaining outstanding reputation of the bank globally.”

Mohammed Abdullah Halabi, Chief Executive Officer of Al Baraka Bank Syria said that the obtaining of ISO 26000 by the bank is a practical embodiment of the social responsibility of the Bank and its role in the economic development in Syria,

improving living standards of citizens, and raising the quality of services provided to them.

“Al Baraka Bank Syria is the first bank in Syria to receive this certificate,This is brought as a culmination of the keenness of the Bank to conduct its responsibilities towards society, in various fields, and particularly in education, ,and training, and humanity, through agreements and understandings, contributions, and grants it provides.”

Al Baraka Bank Syria gets ISO certification

Mohammed Abdullah HalabiAdnan Ahmed Yousif

Samir Nass ENG

BUSINESS Monday, February 27, 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

Batelco signs deal with Ericsson

AUSTRALIA 0.2971 0.2947BANGLADESH 0.00506 0.00475CANADA 0.2945 0.2914DENMARK 0.0569 EGYPT 0.0361 0.0219EURO 0.4059 0.4038HONGKONG 0.04983 0.04943INDIA 0.00582 0.00577INDONESIA 0.00002997 0.00002894IRAN TUMAN 0.00010959 IRAQI DINAR 0.000294 JAPAN 0.003520 0.003450JORDAN 0.5346 0.5351KOREA 0.00038401 KUWAIT 1.2580 1.242MALAYSIA 0.087500 0.0873NEW ZEALAND 0.2767 0.2744NORWAY 0.0473 NEPAL 0.00387 0.00353OMAN 0.97962 0.98262PAKISTAN 0.00365 0.00360PHILIPPINES 0.00777 0.00753QATAR 0.10381 0.10376SAUDI ARABIA 0.10061 0.26810SINGAPORE 0.2730 0.2710SOUTH AFRICA 0.03120 0.03110SRI LANKA 0.00277 0.00249SWEDISH 0.0451 .SWITZERLAND 0.3826 0.3801SYRIA 0.001740 0.0123TAIWAN 0.012800 THAILAND 0.010990 0.010990TURKEY 0.1105 UNITED KINGDOM 0.4796 0.4766UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 0.102800 0.102810UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 0.37800 0.37805YUAN 0.058500 0.0585


Batelco, Bahrain leading digital communication

provider, and Ericsson, a world leading telecoms technology provider have partnered in a major network deal aimed at transforming Batelco’s Bahrain mobile network, to ensure the best customer experience in mobile internet services.

The Mobile Network Enhancement Deal for 2017 – 2018 is the biggest deal between Batelco and Ericsson since their partnership began more than 35 years ago.

“By delivering an outstanding experience to our customers, Ericsson supports Batelco’s strategy to stay ahead of competition. Ericsson’s innovative solutions will provide us with a service to monitor and measure our users’ experience and allow us to enhance their

overall experience through providing the best in network solutions,” Batelco Bahrain CEO Muna Al Hashemi said.

Rafiah Ibrahim, Head of Ericsson Region Middle East and East Africa, said that the deal offers a range of new solutions for its subscribers in Bahrain.

“We will continue to

strengthen this partnership by leveraging Ericsson’s leadership and supporting our customers to prepare their network for the future,” he said.

Ericsson is planning increase its services and offerings in both core and radio solutions to Batelco. Moreover, the agreement

will enable Batelco to start the journey to 5G and IOT by providing network virtualisation services and improved 3G and LTE indoor capacity for customers.

This agreement is expected to have a huge impact on the user experience through improved mobile internet coverage and service quality.

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the Bahrain-based international aluminium smelter, received a high-level delega-tion from the Russian Federation headed by HE Sergey Tsyb, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation on February 21. Alba’s Chief Operations Officer, Amin Sultan and Chief Marketing Officer Khalid A. Latif welcomed the delegation which included Sergei Grishaev, Head of Development of Non-Ferrous Metallurgy, Alexander Pankratov, Assistant to Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade and Anton Bazulev, Director of International Project of UC Rusal. Alba’s Administration Director Waleed Tamimi, Manager Legal, Stephanus Grobler and Acting Manager Public Relations, Fatema Al-Mohri were also present

KHCB sponsors Robot ChampionshipDT News NetworkManama

Khaleeji Commercial Bank (KHCB), has announced

its sponsorship of the 3rd VEX Bahrain Robot Championship, which will be held in the Kingdom on the 26th and 27th of February 2017.

The event will witness the participation of 90 teams of various age groups from primary school up to university competing to win and qualify for the honour of representing the Kingdom in the VEX World Championship in the

state of Kentucky, America.Over 800 students from

30 government and private institutions are set to participate in this edition.

This championship, which is the largest of its kind in Bahrain, aims to develop the participants’ skills in science, technology, engineering and

mathematics through bringing together teams of youths from across the Kingdom and testing their creativity and ability to solve problems and challenges.

Mohammed Oun (third from left) receiving the signed sponsorship deal from Al Meer

Batelco Bahrain CEO Muna Al Hashemi and Tarek Saadi, Head of Ericsson GCC and Pakistan signing the network deal

11

[email protected] There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.

–Edith WhartonMonday, February 27, 2017

Manama

It was a grand show as the Indian School Bahrain (ISB) Riffa Campus celebrated its

annual day. The programme, which was the culmination of all the competitions held at the campus, provided opportunity for students to showcase their talents. Stunning performances of the tiny tots made the annual day celebrations

a memorable one. The colourful function was conducted at the Jashanmal Auditorium of the School’s Isa Town campus. The packed auditorium witnessed some impressive performances by the little ones in the event themed India @ 70. Inayadulla, Managing Director of Crown Electromechanical was the Guest of Honour along with Khalid Jassim,

Executive Manager of the Riffa Sports Club.

ISB Riffa Campus Principal Sudhir Krishnan welcomed the gathering and while addressing the parents, stressed that every programme presented was being brought to the audience by very small children and their encouragement in every way would help the students grow. ISB Chairman Prince S. Natarajan in his address

stressed the role of parents and teachers together, in bringing up children to succeed. He also elaborated on the activities that have been initiated and are successfully running at the Riffa Campus. A presentation to this effect titled “ ISB Riffa - In Retrospect” was delivered by the Vice Principal Pamela Xavier. ISB Secretary Dr. Shemily P John while thanking everyone who attended the function, made a special mention of the contribution of Inayadulla to the School and also the strong relation that the School shares with the Riffa Sports Club. She also applauded

the good work that the teachers were doing. More than 400 little performers entertained

the cheering audience. A new School Anthem was launched, which was penned by Vice Principal Pamela Xavier. ISB Vice-Chairman Muhammed Iqbal, Asst. Secretary Dr. Manoj Kumar, EC members Khursheed Alam, S. K. Ramachandran, Saji Antony , Jayafar Maidani, Saji Markose, Isa Town Campus Principal V. R Palaniswamy and Staff Representative Priya Laji attended the programme and also gave away more than 200 prizes.

INDIAN SCHOOL RIFFA CAMPUS CELEBRATES ANNUAL DAY

The Indian School Bahrain (ISB) Riffa Campus annual day celebrations also saw the inauguration of the 50-member

Junior Band which could be one of the youngest school bands in the GCC region. Little ones proved their brilliant musical skills using instruments like piccolo, bugles, melodica, snares, bass drums, tambourines and cymbals under the guidance of Band Master Haji Paul. Agrima (Class 2 ) and Anirudh Pillai(Class 3) led the band as majors under the captaincy of Gopika Krishna (Class 3) and Aryan (Class 2). Arshin Saheesh of class 3 was the drum major.

ISB JUNIOR BAND

Haji Paul

Monday, February 27, 201712

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday at Sakhir Palace and reviewed topics related to domestic affairs and economic development plans. During the occasion the Prime Minister invited HM the King to attend his grandson Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa’s wedding

Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza received Smart Human Resources Management Managing Partner Sa-bah Almoayyed, who briefed the minister on the activities of Flat6 Labs, a regional startup accelerator programme that fosters and invests in bright and passionate entrepreneurs with cutting-edge ideas. EWA Executive Vice President for Administrative and Finan-cial Affairs Engineer Mohammed Abdul Rahim Sadiki and Sustainable Energy Unit Executive Director Jehan Murbati were present

Minister of Information Affairs, Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumaihi received the Board of Directors of the Muharraq Charity Society, led by Salah Mohammed Bu Hassan and lauded the humanitarian role played by charity societies in deepening social partnership and compassion in the Bahraini society through their efforts in taking care of orphans, widows and the elderly, as well as in supporting needy families. The Minister expressed pride in the Kingdom ranking first in the Arab World and 13th in the world in the World Giving Index in appreciation of its humanitarian initiatives

Minister of Informa-tion Affairs, Ali bin Mohammed Al Rumai-hi received Colonel Nasser Bakhit Sa’ad, who presented him a copy of his book on “Discipline and Code of Conduct of the Pub-lic Security Forces”. Nasser Bakhit thanked the Minister and com-mended his efforts to improve the media narrative and consoli-date its role as a part-ner in protecting the security of the nation

Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa deputised BDF Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa to attend the hon-ouring of the BDF’s Special Operations Force (Taskforce 9). The BDF Commander-in-chief was welcomed upon arrival at the Royal Guard headquarters, by the Supreme Council for Youth & Sport Chairman, Bahrain Olympic Committee President & Royal Charity Organisation (RCO) Chairman, HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Supreme Council for Youth & Sport First Vice Chairman and Bahrain Royal Equestrian & Endurance Federation President, HH Shai-kh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Minister of Defence Af-fairs Lt.General Yusuf Al Jalahma and Chief of Staff, Lieu-tenant-General Dhiyab bin Saqr Al-Noaimi

Monday, February 27, 2017 13

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa received Prime Minister, HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa and Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday at Sakhir Palace and reviewed topics related to domestic affairs and economic development plans. During the occasion the Prime Minister invited HM the King to attend his grandson Shaikh Khalifa bin Rashid Al Khalifa’s wedding

Mohamed Ahmadi Group of Companies (MAC) celebrated Award Ceremony 2017 for their employees at Baan Saeng Thai Auditorium, Adiliya on February 24. Chief Guest DT News Chief Editor Soman Baby inaugurated the function. Indian Film Director Jibu Jacob ,Cinematographer Pramod R. Pillai were the Guests of Honor. MAC Chairman Mohamed Ebra-him Mohamed Ahmadi, Managing Director Baby Mathew, Director Ebrahim Ahmadi, General Manager G. Padmakumar, Assit. General Manager Pramod R, ICRF Joint Secretary Ajayakrishnan, MAC Welfare Chairman Sam K.V, Vice Chairman Sandheep Nair P and other officials attended the ceremony

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) celebrated the State of Kuwait national day by distributing gifts to visitors coming to Bahrain through the Bahrain International Airport and King Fahd Causeway on February 23

The Commercial Dispute Committee of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) recently convened its regular meeting in Bait Al Tijjar headed by Sami Zainal. The committee deliberated about the forum themed “Bait Al Tijjar and Dispute Settlement” which will be held on March 7 at 9:30 a.m. in Al Majlis Hall of Bait Al Tijjar

Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza received Smart Human Resources Management Managing Partner Sa-bah Almoayyed, who briefed the minister on the activities of Flat6 Labs, a regional startup accelerator programme that fosters and invests in bright and passionate entrepreneurs with cutting-edge ideas. EWA Executive Vice President for Administrative and Finan-cial Affairs Engineer Mohammed Abdul Rahim Sadiki and Sustainable Energy Unit Executive Director Jehan Murbati were present

Minister of Labour & Social Development, Jameel Humaidan signed a Memoran-dum of Understanding (MoU) with Tamkeen CEO Shaikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa, as part of their mutual coordination and integration. The agreement was signed to develop and implement training infrastructure projects, including vo-cational standards, apprenticeship, the National Human Resources Observatory project and National Plan for Guidance and Vocational Trends

Minister of Education, Dr. Majid Al Nuaimi received Chief Executive of the Education and Training Quality Authority (BQA) Dr. Jawaher Al Madh-haki and discussed cooperation between the Ministry and the authority, mainly concerning arrangements for the international network confer-ence of the quality assurance authorities in higher education 2017

Minister of Educa-tion, Dr. Majid Al Nu-aimi inaugurated the “Arab Reading Chal-lenge” project book fair, at the Education Ministry’s hall in Isa Town. Around 18,000 students from Public and private schools took part and 2700 succeeded to achieve the challenge goal by reading and summa-rizing 50 books

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa yesterday received Rabbi Marvin Hier, Dean and Founder of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, its Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles and discussed major issues that contribute to promoting the culture and religious tolerance in the Kingdom. King Hamad during the dialogue exchange with Marvin Hier, took pride in deep-rooted historic relations binding the Kingdom and the United States for over more than 120 years.

Los Angeles

Ac t o r - f i l m m a k e r George Clooney,

who is going to be a father soon, is “happier” than he has “ever been”, says his friend Gregory Lentz. The 55-year-old actor and his wife Amal are expecting twins later this year and Laperouse restaurant owner Lentz, who has known Clooney since 2011, welcomed the couple to the eatery over the weekend, reports people.com.(IANS)

Los Angeles

Actor Jamie Dornan, who rose to fame with the film franchise “Fifty

Shades of Grey”, says he never wanted to be famous.

“I’ve never wanted to be famous, that has never been part of my make-up. And there’s a lot to be said for that. If you don’t want it, don’t invite it in. I know, in some cases, it’s unavoidable, and my sympathies for those unfortunate individuals,” Dornan told Heat magazine.

“It’s pretty easy to stay low-key. My life is normal apart for days when I’m on the red carpet and posing for pictures and those days are few and far between. Everything in between, that is pretty normal,” he added.

(IANS)

JackAllTimeLow@‏

My uber drivers know more about me than my parents


In 2012, Ed Sheeran won two BRIT Awards for the Best British Male Solo Artist and British Breakthrough of the Year.

Santa Monica

Coming of age story “Moonlight”

triumphed Saturday at the Spirit Awards, adding six trophies to the string of honours it has picked up with the Oscars just one

day away.Starring Mahershala

Ali and Naomie Harris, Barry Jenkins’s movie tells the life story of a young African American struggling to find his place as he grows up in a rough

neighborhood of Miami.The movie -- made for

just $1.5 million -- took best film as well as best director for Jenkins and best screenplay, cinematography and editing.(TOI)

Los Angeles

Singer-actress Selena Gomez reportedly flew all the way to the Netherlands to watch her rumoured boyfriend and singer The

Weeknd perform.Gomez landed in Amsterdam just twenty four hours before The

Weeknd was scheduled to perform in the capital as part of his Starboy: Legend of the Fall Tour, reports dailymail.co.uk.

According to a source, Gomez had jetted over to the Netherlands to watch him perform at the Ziggo Dome in the capital and to support him during the European leg of his tour.

“She flew there to meet up with him. She will be at his show in Amsterdam,” the source said. However with a busy schedule of her own, Gomez’s visits will only be fleeting.(IANS)

Monday, Febraury 27, 2017 15

Take note from Diane Kruger’s style book by mixing and matching different textures into your look—from fur to lace to denim—for an outfit with dimension.

Pop singer who became known for his hit singles Mysterious Girl and Behind Closed Doors, the last of which reached #4 on the UK Singles Charts in 2009.

Peter AndreFebruary 27, 1973

(harpersbazaar.com)

London

Singer Cheryl, who is expecting her first child with boyfriend Liam Payne, says she struggled with self-

doubt as a teenager.Cheryl has appeared in a second video in aid of the

Price’s Trust and L’Oreal Paris’s new collaborative campaign, which sees her reflect on her battle with self-esteem, reports dailymail.co.uk.

In the video, she said: “My name’s Cheryl and I’m from Newcastle. There was definitely a time when I struggled with self-doubt. I would say more so in my life when I was a teenager was when I first dreamed about experiencing those feelings of doubting yourself and doubting your decisions.”

Cheryl added: “ There’s moment in life when you might feel things a s

failure but they’re actually just learning curves so you can’t be afraid to fail ... You’ve got to experience stuff to feel that way and I’m definitely at a place now where I don’t feel like I failed at things, I feel like I learn.”(TOI)

MONDAY NIGHT BOOKCLUBDate : Today 7 pm – 8 pm

Venue : Words BookstoreCafé- Jannusan

The Women by T.C. Boyle. T.C. Boyle’s dazzling new novel turns his

fictional sights on the colorful and outlandish Frank Lloyd Wright. Boyle’s incomparable account of Wright’s life, as told through the experiences of the four women who loved him, blazes with his trademark wit and inventiveness. There’s the Montenegrin beauty, Olgivanna Milanoff, the passionate Southern belle Maude Miriam Noel, the spirited and tragic Mamah Cheney, and his young first wife, Kitty Tobin. Boyle deftly captures these very different women and in doing so, creates a gripping drama about marriage, the bargains men and women make, and the privileges and pitfalls of genius and fame.

CURRY NIGHT | CHOICESDate : Today 7 pm - 11:30 pm Venue : ART Rotana- Muharraq

Join us for a night of the best Desi Cuisine! Spice up your Monday nights with aromatic curries from across the Desi region including all your favorites and authentic drinks made to order.

FREE IMMIGRATION ROADSHOWDate : Today 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Venue: Downtown Rotana- Manama

Immigration Roadshow is brought to you by Success Global Limited, a licensed immigration consulting firm based in Wellington, New Zealand. This roadshow is part of our global immigration events covering New Zealand, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait. The roadshow represents an excellent opportunity for those of you who are considering to move to Australia or New Zealand either for permanent settlement or for a temporary stay such as work and study. While building on previous success stories around the world, our senior licensed immigration team will be providing important information about immigration, work and study opportunities in Australia and New Zealand.

GINGHAM IN BLUE - AN ART EXHIBITION Date : 1 Mar 7 pm - 04 Mar 6 pm Venue : Words BookstoreCafé- Jannusan

I have always been interested in drawing faces and people. In this series of paintings I have tried to incorporate both my love of texture and textiles combined with my drawings and paintings. My paintings are built on layers of drawing, paint, stencils, stamps and pieces of fabric, hence the title, ‘Gingham in Blue’ . The gingham fabric is present and significant in all

the paintings of this collection.

WALKING TOUR OF MUHARRAQ SOUQDate : 01 Mar 9 pm – 11 pmVenue : Muharraq

Explore Bahrain’s Pearling Trail (a Unesco World Heritage Site) and join us for a walk through part of the former capital of Bahrain. We will visit some traditional houses and will go to the old Souq to enjoy the handicrafts and merchandise showcased there.

SPARTAN 6-WEEK PREP PROGRAMDate : 03 Mar 08:00 - 09:30 Venue : Tribal Fitness- Maqaba

Join our resident Spartan Coach, Ari as he prepares you for the Bahrain Spartan Race on 14th April 2016 in Riffa, Bahrain.This 6-week program will enable you to cut weight (fat), improve your relative strength and be ready for Spartan-specific obstacles. The program starts on Friday 3rd March 2017 and includes 6 x 90-minute

sessions each Friday, a 6-week Spartan Lifestyle Challenge and a Tribal Fitness T-shirt to represent on the big day! The program is limited to 20 people (Members and none-members are welcome).

BUY ONE GET ONE FREE CHOCOHOLIC FRIDAY BRUNCHDate : 03 Mar 13:00 - 16:00 Venue : Sheraton Bahrain Hotel- Manama

Live cooking station, seafood items, cold cuts, International main course plus extravagant selection of desserts and crepe station with loads of chocolates every Friday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm.

NOCTURNE FOR PIT ORCHESTRADate: March 9Venue: Bahrain National Quarry

A sound live performance involving the laborers of the Bahrain National Quarry. A project by Ilaria Lupo in collaboration with Rabih Beaini, and the participation of Hasan Hujairi.

BAHRAIN ANNUAL FINE ARTS EXHIBITION 43Date: On-going till 17 March 2017, 8:00 am 8:00 pmVenue: Bahrain National Theatre

The Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, in its 43rd edition, celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of the local artists. Every year, the art community gathers to present their finest work, uninhibited by a subject or theme. The result is a colorful display of styles, techniques, through different mediums of expression.

THE SELFLESS HOLY GROUNDDate: Sunday - Thursday 19 March - 13 April , 8 am - 8:00 pmVenue: Art Centre

The exhibition features interactive installations by artist Othman Khunji created through the use and application of cutting-edge technology, including Arduino sensors/actuators, 3D printing, laser cutting, and water jet engraving. The collection explains and portrays the contrast between the traditional self-sacrificing, selfless, altruistic symbol that Mecca has always represented for Muslims, and the contemporary self-centered, selfish, egocentric aura that has become synonymous with one’s journey to our most holiest of places.

PAACT MUSICAL PROGRAMDate: April 21 Venue: Jashanmal Auditorium, Indian School, Isa Town

INTERADS in association with Palakkad Arts and Cultural Theatre (PAACT) is organizing a musical program ‘Pathinte Niravil Paact-Swaralayam’ on Friday, April 21 at Jashanmal Auditorium, Indian School, Isa Town.

The morning session, Chembai Sangeetholtsavam 2017 Season 4, from 9am to 2.00pm will be devoted to Indian classical music followed by a melodious evening event, Niloltsavam 2017 Season 4 from 5.00pm until 11pm.

In case of enquiries, please contact PAACT President Jyothykumar Menon on 39851646.


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: [email protected], or

call 38444680.

HIGHLIGHT

HIGHLIGHT

2017 FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIXDate: April 14-16Venue: Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) announced its highly anticipated launch of ticket sales for the 2017 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Tickets are being sold with an ‘Early Bird’ discount of up to 20%. The offer is available only until January 27 and it covers tickets to BIC’s Main Grandstand and Turn One Grandstand. There is also a 10% reduction on ticket prices to the Batelco Grandstand,

University Grandstands and Victory Grandstands. Children aged 12 years old and younger can get their tickets for half the price. The Bahrain Grand Prix is set to be the third race on the Formula 1 calendar for 2017 and it will be the fourth Grand Prix hosted under floodlights in Sakhir. With the previous night races hailed as the most enthralling and action-packed ever seen at “The Home of Motorsport

in the Middle East”, the exciting build up for next year’s event has already begun. Tickets can be purchased online at www.bahraingp.com or by calling the BIC Hotline on +973-17-450000.

MAKE YOUR MOMMA PROUD LIVE Date: 3rd March 2017, 6.30pmVenue: The Indian School Ground, Isa Town

One of the biggest and well-known music bands in the Philippines is coming to Bahrain exclusively for Modern Exchange customers. Make Your Momma Proud known popularly as M.Y.M.P will be performing live on March 3 at the Indian High School Ground, Isa Town.

M.Y.M.P., an acoustic band from the Philippines consists of five members. It is a tribute to lead singer Chin Alcantara’s mom. She saw him start with the guitar but never got to see him play professionally. They have rose to stardom through the release of their soulful albums many of which has been certified as Platinum. It is MYMPs first performance in the Kingdom and promises to be a mesmerizing experience for the Filipino community. The process of getting a pass for this exciting program is quite simple. Do a transaction of any amount to the Philippines from Modern Exchange before 03rd of March and get a free pass for the event.

BAHRAIN FOOD FESTIVAL Date: Ongoing Venue: Bahrain Bay

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has launched the second edition of ‘Bahrain Food Festival’. The festival is considered as one of BTEA’s significant events for the year 2017 and will run for a period of ten days until the 6th of March with the aim to attract food enthusiasts from the Kingdom and the neighboring GCC countries. More than 50 prominent outlets are taking part this year including businesses and concepts related to the food industry such as restaurants, cafes, hotels, nutrition, kitchen appliances and many more. The Bahrain Food Festival will offer visitors varied cuisines including Middle Eastern, Western, Asian, Indian, Organic, and Healthy options. The second edition of the Bahrain Food Festival will take place in three main locations- at Bahrain Bay during weekdays from 5:00pm to 10:00pm; at Block 338 in Adliya during the weekends from 5:00pm until midnight; and at Capital Club which is hosting Latin America’s 37th Chef, Gerrado Lugo, who we will be showcasing authentic Mexican cuisine from the north and south of Mexico.

BAHRAIN ANNUAL FINE ARTS EXHIBITION 43 Date: On-going till 17 March 2017, 8:00 am 8:00 pmVenue: Bahrain National Theatre

The Bahrain Annual Fine Arts Exhibition, in its 43rd edition, celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of the local artists. Every year, the art community gathers to present their finest work, uninhibited by a subject or theme. The result is a colorful display of styles, techniques, through different mediums of expression.

: Bahrain best classifieds www.newsofbahrain.com


SERVICE

PERFECT CLEANINGMarble restoration mirror polishing.Cleaning contracts & General cleaning services.Windows cleaning.Sofa curtain shampooing.Curtain steam cleaning.Supplying cleaning staffs.Call 38022754..............................................CERTIFICATE ATTESTATION & UNIVERSITY VERIFICATION from India, Bahrain, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, UK, USA,

Australia. Contact UROGULF : 34211 944, 3733 4647, 38 271 275, urogulfbahrain@gmail. com, [email protected], www.urogulf.com, www.muble.com ...................................................ALWARDI CLEANINGCleaning contracts & General cleaning services.Sofa curtain shampooing.Curtain steam cleaning.Marble grinding and mirror polishing. Supplying cleaning staffs. Call 33717930

SITUATION VACANT

[email protected]: 17 630 301, Fax: 17 630 501

Required Female Housemaid

For working at Bahraini and Non-Bahraini family home. Work Visa Provided

Certified Female Caregivers

Preferably English / Arabic speaking Minimum experience of 3 years. Work Visa Provided

Female Nurse Aide

Certified nursing assistants should be compassionate and enjoy helping others. Work Visa Provided

Office clerksMale / Female

Preferably Fluent in English speaking and writingWork Visa Provided

Assistant Teacher

Well experienced in TutoringStay in with Home familyPreferably Fluent in EnglishSpeaking and writingWork Visa Provided

Cook

Well experienced with Arabic / Oriental and Indian Cuisine. For Staying in home Work Visa Provided

Female Stewardess

For Private Home events and parties services. Work Visa Provided

Female Cleaners

Well experienced in Housekeeping Minimum of 2 yearsWork Visa Provided

Drivers

Well experienced in DrivingShould have valid GCC licensedWork Visa Provided

Certified Babysitter/Nannies

Well experienced in taking care of babiesPreferably Fluent in EnglishWork Visa Provided

MARVEL MANAGEMENT TRAINING INSTITUTE

PROGRAM YOURSELF TO SUCCESS

ProgrammingC++, JAVA, VB, ASP.NET, C#.NET

Database ORACLE SQL, PL/SQL, MS SQL, DBA

IT Service Management ITIL V3 FoundationOffice Application

MS Office 2013, Excel Adv, VBA

Quality of trainings fromCertified TrainersOne to One trainingCorporate Trainings

Wind Tower, 4th Floor, Diplomatic AreaKingdom of Bahrain, Email : [email protected]

www.mmt_institute.com

33301230/ 17530775

TOYOTA COROLLA 2017TOYOTA COROLLA 2017 MAZDA 3 SEDAN 2017

HONDA CITY 2017 HONDA ACCORD 2017

TOYOTA ZELAS 2016TOYOTA ZELAS 2016

HYUNDAI SONATA 2016

TOYOTA CAMRY 2016

HONDA ACCORD 2016

NISSAN X TRAIL 2015

SUZUKI VITARA 2016

HONDA CRV 2016

HYUNDAI TUCSON 2016

LEXUS LS 460 2016

HYUNDAI TUCSON 2016HYUNDAI TUCSON 2016

SHONEEZ MOTORSContact:36669388 / 39668636

MAZDA 3 SEDAN 2017MAZDA 3 SEDAN 2017

SHONEEZ MOTORSSELLINGBUYING

EXCHANGING CAR

Flat/shop 18, Bldg. 1947, Road 5447, Block 354Al Burhama, Rakan Center, Kingdom of Bahrain

Email:[email protected]:Fax:

17556862 17556863

TOYOTA LAND CRUISER 2016

Looking for a tailor at ladies fashion store.

Applicant to be a master cut and tailor for ladies garments

with experience. Whatsapp or call

39998608.

URGENTLY REQUIREDJOB VACANCY

Urgently required motorcycle delivery boys for a reputed fast food company.

Send CV and copy of license to [email protected] or contact, 34229177,

17683222

...................................................Business solutions· WLL/SPC Registration· Accounting/ Auditing Services·Adding/ Removing Partner Activity· LMRA/CPR/Gossi Services· CR Additional Visa· Applications· Sponsorship with or without offices· Business sale/ purchase· 33600501, 33602501,[email protected], www.fahdan.com

18 Monday, February 27, 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)

You will not allow yourself to be sidetracked by minor considerations today; you’ll go straight to the heart of matters. There’s some likelihood that you have given little consideration to your environment and working conditions, and instead are concentrating on the goal you’ve set for yourself.

About ten days ago it may have occurred to you that you should be making more of an effort to advance your career. If so, it will be easier for you to accept the challenges of today, as there is some probability you’ll be asked to perform to the highest levels of perfection. Be careful not to lose yourself in the attempt!

Your light and breezy spirit may have some trouble harmonizing with the prevailing mood today. Usually, when you’re cornered, you’re always able to find a way to squirm to safety. But today you may run out of clever manoeuvres. Even though you face the day’s challenges alone and unaided, you will survive them the same way. Good for you!What a day lies ahead, dear ! Whether it is at work or at home with your family, you may find yourself choosing between two options, both of which stem from a feeling of anxiety! You may decide to vanquish your worries by rolling up your sleeves and getting down to business. In that case, you can expect to expend a great deal of energy.It is often said that Leo energy feeds on strong emotions, and situations that require some daring are an excellent source of such excitement. That’s the key to understanding the day ahead. True, you can expect some hair-raising encounters, but how better to show off your skills, either as an employee or as a passionate partner!

You will have to rely on your analytical skills and steely self-control to navigate the stormy seas you’ll find yourself in today. And there is no way to escape from the stress. The worst pitfall facing you, especially in your career or studies, would be to begin doubting in your own abilities.

Something in the astral skies is indicating that you may be interested in pursuing some kind of training. Assess where you are in your professional life. Are you up to persuading people with your expertise? Don’t think that you have to know more to be a good teacher. In fact, it is very often by teaching that the professor learns about his subject.

Have you done some drawings? Since last month, or possibly even before, you have been thinking about all of your creative abilities. You have the habit of turning your back on your skills in drawing, photography, and writing, but they are inside you, nonetheless. People will be expecting more of you! All you have to do is get out a brush or a pen and you’ll be on your way!

A moment will come when you can no longer fight against the current transformation you are going through, notably in your professional life. The situation that you live in will soon land you in a kind of impasse, but this won’t necessarily be unpleasant. But you will be obliged to change paths whether you like it or not. In any case, you will undoubtedly want to!

One last concerted effort, and you will be able to get to the root of the problem that has undoubtedly been on your mind for a while now. The answer to the question concerning your identity isn’t entirely to be found in your family history. You are part of a generation as well as part of a family. Both influence your responses.

You have been doing a lot of cleaning up and clearing out. Since this project of yours has been going on for several years now, you must be doing a particularly thorough job. Finally, it seems as if you are getting things straight with your “karma.” Thus, today will be a big day. You may be able to leave part of your childhood behind.

Sometimes you have to go back to square one if you want a situation to get better. This can be frustrating, or even humiliating, but if the goal is to have a solid foundation on which to reconstruct, it is well worth it to do this! Don’t be too attached to your professional past. You have to advance, and you are a little bit too weighed down right now. Let go!

1- Euripides tragedy; 6- Fruit of the coffee plant; 10- Star- ___ tuna; 14- ___ we all?; 15- “Beetle Bailey” dog; 16- Dissenter; 17- I ___ vaca tion!; 18- Will-___-wisp; 19- Person, place, or thing; 20- Moving; 21- Where to find the geese, chickens, and goats; 23- Naught; 25- Lyric poem; 26- For men only; 29- Swedish import; 32- According to; 37- West ender?; 38- Small batteries; 39- Richards of “Jurassic Park”; 40- In spite of; 43- Coercion; 44- Broadcasts; 45- Whopper; 46- Pittsburgh product; 47- Puerto ___; 48- Flat sound; 49- Just manage, with “out”; 51- Miss-named?; 53- Diminished; 58- Counting everything; 62- Select; 63- Salt tree; 64- Gift recipient; 65- Actor Calhoun; 66- Hardy lass; 67- Wear down; 68- Blame; 69- Neb. neighbor; 70- Charged toward;

1- “Give that ____ cigar!”; 2- “___ Tu”: 1974 hit; 3- Insect-repelling chemical; 4- Termination; 5- Pong maker; 6- Simpleton; 7- Jazzy James; 8- Pulsating; 9- Very much; 10- Japanese syllabic script; 11- Are you ___ out?; 12- Poker variety; 13- Can metal; 22- Pines for; 24- Atty.-to-be exams; 26- Transmits; 27- Freshwater fish; 28- Cave; 30- Satisfied sound; 31- Very, to Verdi; 33- Caesar of comedy; 34- Buckets; 35- Bandleader Skinnay ___; 36- Fads; 38- Bridal paths; 39- Brother of Moses; 41- Very early; 42- ___-tac-toe; 47- Leased; 48- Lady of Spain; 50- “Endymion” poet; 52- Down source; 53- Large cat; 54- Linen hue; 55- The ___ the limit; 56- “Born Free” lion; 57- Writing table; 59- Prolific author, briefly; 60- Mother of Helen of Troy; 61- Internet writing system that popularized “pwn3d” and “n00b”; 62- Paid player;

BEETLE BAILEYR

z #PollToday

Yes No Can’t Say

Do you think imposing BD 400 annual fee for expat students was a right move by the authorities?

Rest in sight

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

/nobonline/newsofbahrain

Truck plows into New Orleans, 28 injured

China detains 24 after deadly hotel fire

Probe ratchets up pressure on Fillon election bid

Two suspects charged in France over terror plot

A suspected drunk driver plowed a pickup truck into a Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, leaving 28 people injured, including children, officials said.

Authorities have detained 24 people after a fire sparked by unsafe welding and cutting work killed 10 people in east-ern China, state media said yesterday.

Two men who had been arrested on suspicion of plan-ning a terror attack in France, were charged yesterday.

A French prosecutors’ deci-sion to launch a full judicial inquiry into claims that presi-dential candidate Francois Fillon paid his family for fake jobs leaves him facing a fraught before elections, said media commentators.

Monday, February 27, 2017 19Trump to skip annual correspondents’ dinnerWashington

Donald Trump has ratcheted up his feud

with the US media by announcing he will skip the annual correspondents’ dinner, the first US president to do so in 36 years.

By boycotting the event Trump breaks a tradition that began in 1921 in which journalists invite the US president for a light-hearted roast.

“I will not be attending the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner this year. Please wish everyone well and have a great evening!” Trump wrote on Twitter.

The last time a president

missed the event was in 1981, when Ronald Reagan was recovering after being shot in an assassination attempt. Reagan however phoned in with friendly remarks.

Richard Nixon, who despised the media, skipped the event in 1972.

Kuala Lumpur

Kim Jong-Nam was dead within 20 minutes of

being attacked and would have suffered a “very painful death” as his major organs shut down, Malaysia’s health minister said yesterday.

The estranged half-brother of the North Korean leader was killed with lethal nerve agent VX, police have revealed, after he was ambushed at Kuala Lumpur airport on February 13.

Two women can be seen shoving something into

Kim’s face in CCTV footage of the brazen assassination before he seeks help.

“He died in the ambulance. He fainted in the clinic,” said Health Minister S. Subramaniam.

“From the time of the attack he died within 15 to 20 minutes.”

Autopsy results suggested the 45-year-old died from “very serious paralysis” due to a lethal nerve agent.

VX is so deadly it is listed by the UN as a weapon of mass destruction.

Santiago

Rainstorms and landslides in Chile killed four and

contaminated a major river, forcing authorities to cut off drinking water to four million people in the capital.

The torrential rain that started Saturday prompted mudslides to surge into the Maipo river which supplies most homes in the capital.

“We are talking about 1.45 million homes that are going to be affected by the cutting off of the water supply”, said the region’s governor Claudio Orrego.

The move prompted many people to go out with buckets and pans to collect water at emergency water taps made available by the authorities.

Kim suffered death within 20 minutes of attack

Four million without water in Chile floods

“If US taxes Mexican imports, the Mexican government will have to respond,”

Luis VidegarayForeign Minister

A woman draws water from a pool during a drinking water supply cut in Santiago

Washington

Opposition Democrats chose Tom Perez as

their new leader, tapping an establishment figure to lead the fight against President Donald Trump and the Republican Congress.

Perez, a labor secretary under former president Barack Obama and the party’s first Hispanic-American leader, immediately named the contest’s runner-up, leftist lawmaker Keith Ellison, as the party’s deputy chairman.

“Someday, they’re going to study this era in American history and ask the question, of all of us, where were you in 2017 when we had the worst president in the history of the United States?” said Perez, 55.

“And we will all be able to say, the united Democratic party led the resistance and ensured this president was a one-term president.”

Ellison, an 53-year-old African American, warned that “we don’t have the luxury to walk out of this room divided.”

The fight over who would chair the Democratic National Committee (DNC)

appeared at times to be a proxy battle between the supporters of defeated 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and her leftist primary rival Bernie Sanders.

Perez, who won 235 votes against 200 for Ellison, a strong Sanders supporter was seen as the establishment pick.

Perez succeeds interim chair Donna Brazile, who took over after Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz

was ousted in mid-2016 when leaked emails showed that some DNC members, who are pledged to be neutral in presidential primaries, favored Clinton over Sanders.

The progressive group Democracy for America was upset with the “incredibly disappointing” vote result.

Choosing Perez “is another missed opportunity for a Democratic Party desperately trying to regain relevance, and proves... how out of touch party insiders are with the grassroots movement currently in the streets,” said the group’s chair Jim Dean, an Ellison supporter.

After the vote Trump offered what appeared to be tongue-in-cheek congratulations on Twitter.

“Congratulations to Thomas Perez, who has been named Chairman of the DNC. I could not be happier for him, or for the Republican Party!” he wrote.

Perez’s response: “Call me Tom. And don’t get too happy. @keithellison and I, and Democrats united across the country, will be your worst nightmare.” (AFP)

Perez picked to lead Democrats

Tom Perez

Costa Rica

As the sun shimmered yellow then sank past the

horizon, nearly 1,000 people packing the hot Costa Rican beach paused their drum beating and hoop dancing to cheer like pagans.

The moment is part of Envision: an annual four-day festival that has grown exponentially over 10 years

from a small gathering into a big international event.

Hosted on a coastal property, it sees more than 5,000 skimpily clad ticket holders diving into electronica beats, yoga classes, art, and spiritual precepts.

It’s a millennial gathering, with mostly North Americans flying down to escape their winter for a long weekend.

Tickets run from $300 for

a pass and a camping spot up to $3,000 for a VIP treehouse experience.

But the three dance areas are deliriously decked out, one featuring mini-towers shooting flames to the beat, and security, police, is plentiful.

For the festival goers, it’s a safe tropical dance party that doesn’t skimp on the technology.(AFP)

Central America hosts its own ‘Burning Man’

People attend a concert during the Envision Festival in Puntarenas


Russians marchin memory of NemtsovMoscow

Thousands marched through central Moscow

yesterday in memory of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov ahead of the second anniversary of his murder.

The 55-year-old former deputy prime minister was gunned down near the Kremlin on February 27, 2015. He was the highest-profile killing of a critic of President Vladimir Putin since the ex-KGB officer took charge in 2000.

Five Chechen men from

Russia’s volatile North Caucasus are on trial for carrying out a contract hit, but those who ordered the killing have not been brought to justice.

“We came to pay tribute to the honesty and bravery of Boris Nemtsov,” said pensioner Galina Zolina, clutching a bunch of red carnations.

Nemtsov, a charismatic figure who went from Kremlin insider under Boris Yeltsin to one of Putin’s fiercest foes, was shot four times in the back as

he walked home across a bridge with his girlfriend.

The march was permitted by the authorities but was not allowed to go past a makeshift memorial officials have repeatedly sought to dismantle at the spot where he was killed.

Some 15,000 demonstrators, according to an estimate by the organisers, took part.

Heavily escorted by police, they waved Russian flags and posters criticising the Kremlin and Russia’s intervention in Ukraine, which Nemtsov had

opposed right up to his death. In one incident, an

unidentified assailant threw what appeared to be a green antiseptic at former prime minister Mikhail Kasyanov, current chairman of the opposition People’s Freedom Party. Kasyanov, his face covered in blobs of green liquid, stayed on the front line of the march.

“The march can maybe get the attention of the authorities,” said unemployed biologist Alexei Kuznetsov.

“It might be able to influence the investigation, show that the case resonates in society even if the authorities try to ignore it.”

In the northwestern city of St. Petersburg, some 1,800 people also marched in memory of Nemtsov, brandishing signs that read “Who is the mastermind?”

Last October five men -- including a member of an elite interior ministry unit in Chechnya -- went on trial in a military court in Moscow for carrying out the contract

killing for 15 million rubles (currently $250,000, 240,000 euros).

But despite claims from officials that the case has been solved, Nemtsov’s family and allies insist that the probe into his death has left the masterminds untouched.

They say he was killed to stop his political activities, a murder trail that leads to the inner circle of Ramzan Kadyrov, Chechnya’s Kremlin-loyal strongman. (AFP)

US shooting: India demands strong actionNew Delhi

India demanded the “strongest action” from

the US government yesterday after an Indian expatriate was killed and another wounded in a suspected hate crime in the midwestern state of Kansas.

The two men, who had been living in the US for the last few years, were targeted at a bar in Olathe, a suburb of Kansas City, late Wednesday.

“USA should respond to this incident. American President and people of America, they should come out openly to condemn such actions and then take strongest action,” said Information and Broadcasting Minister M Venkaiah Naidu.

Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed and Alok Reddy Madasani, 32, wounded in the attack.

“These kind of incidents

involving racial discrimination are shameful,” said Naidu.

US authorities late Wednesday detained 51-year-old Adam Purinton at a restaurant after he claimed he had killed two Middle Easterners.

He has been charged with premeditated first-degree murder and two counts of attempted premeditated first-degree murder.

The FBI is trying to determine if the shooting was a hate crime.

Sarmiento

Stargazers applauded as they were plunged into

darkness yesterday when the moon passed in front of the sun in a spectacular “ring of fire” eclipse.

Astronomers and enthusiasts in Argentina were among the first to see the so-called annular eclipse as it crossed South America shortly after 1200 GMT, on course for Africa.

Staring up through special telescopes, protective glasses or homemade cardboard pinhole devices, they watched the Sun all but disappear briefly as the Moon crossed its path.

The eclipse was most visible in a 100-kilometer (62-mile) band across Chile, Argentina, Angola, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Around 300 stargazers gathered in a remote spot near the southern city of

Sarmiento, the point in Argentina where the eclipse left just a bright ring in the dark sky.

Several onlookers blew notes on “erkes,” long traditional South American horns.

“I have already seen six annular eclipses and each one was different,” said Josep Masalles Roman, an enthusiast who came all the way from Barcelona in Spain.

The spectacle passed on to Angola south of the town of Benguela, then Zambia and DR Congo just before the Sun set.

An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon and Sun line up.

But even when perfectly aligned, the Moon is too far from Earth to completely block out the Sun, creating instead the impression of a fiery ring.

Locals in the province of Chubut around Sarmiento said they noted changes in the height of the tide and animals acting unusually.

Experts say that as the day darkens, birds and animals enter a night-time routine, thinking sunset is nigh.

At the height of the eclipse the Moon is right in the middle of the Sun, leaving a perfect ring of light around the edge.

It takes about two hours for the Moon to move across the face of the Sun, but the “ring of fire” peak lasted a mere minute.

Starting in the southeast Pacific Ocean at sunrise, the eclipse passed over southern Chile then Argentina before sweeping over the South Atlantic.

At sea, the eclipse peak was to last 44 seconds and was visible to any ships that happen to be in the right place at the right time.

People preparing to see an annular solar eclipseAdam Purinton

Russian opposition leader Mikhail Kasyanov (C) and supporters of Boris Nemtsov hold flags and banners during a memorial march

Stargazers applaud ‘ring of fire’


Ahmed Hazeem of Production and Abdullah Al Aaidi

of Tatweer (1,056 pins) lead after three games in the Bapco Interdepartmental Bowling Banagas Doubles Tournament

2017 at the Ozone Centre in the Sitra Mall.

In second place are Waleed Othman of the Information Technology Department (ITD) and Abdul Latif Mohammed from Marketing (1,047) with Ali Al Helo and Abdul Aziz Bu Falah of

Human Resources (HR) (1,009) in third.

Tonight the players will play the three remaining games and the top five teams and those players who scored high games in the two weeks will be awarded trophies.

Monday, February 27, 2017 21SPORTS


Brave Combat Federation will land in Abu Dhabi, UAE for the first time on 31 March

and an historic night, with Masio Fullen and Elias Boudegzdame battling it out at Brave 4: Unstoppable to become the promotion’s first world champion at 145 pounds (featherweight).

This five-round championship bout, which airs live on BraveFights.com from IPIC Arena At Zayed Sports City, is also a must see because it pits brave’s top featherweights against each other, as the former UFC fighter Masio “Lobo” Fullen squares off with the most hyped and highly talented Arab featherweight, Elias Boudegzdame from Algeria.

The pride of Guadalajara, Mexico, Fullen, is one of the most experienced combat sports athlete in the promotion.

A veteran of 17 MMA fights and widely considered to be an all-time great, made his promotional debut at Brave 1 “The Beginning” last September, when he shocked the world with a first round TKO (technical knockout) of India’s most popular fighter Abdul Muneer that earned him this title shot.

Next month Fullen can make headlines once again if he can defeat Boudegzdame to become the first ever Brave Combat Federation title holder.

Brave moves to UAE for first time

Costa motors to Abu DhabiAbu Dhabi

Rui Costa avoided any late mishaps to win the Tour

of Abu Dhabi after Australia’s

Caleb Ewan claimed yesterday’s fourth stage under rain and floodlights at the Yas Marina Formula One circuit.

Portugal’s former world champion Costa took a decisive lead in the race with success in Saturday’s third stage.

And he kept out of trouble to top the overall standings by four seconds from Russia’s Ilnur Zakarin, with Dutch rider Tom Dumoulin in third.

Ewan took the closing day honours in a sprint from Briton Mark Cavendish and Andre Greipel of Germany.

The 30-year-old Costa is showing powerful early season form after also coming second in the Tour of Oman. (AFP)

Results:4th stage:

1. Caleb Ewan (AUS/ORS) 3hr 03min 06sec

2. Mark Cavendish (GBR/DDD) s.t.

3. Andre Greipel (GER/LTS) s.t.

4. Nicolo Bonifazio (ITA/TBM) s.t.

5. Matteo Pelluchi (ITA/BOH) s.t.

Overall

1. Rui Costa (POR/UAD) 16hr 42min 21sec

2. Ilnur Zakarin (RUS/KAT) at 4sec

3. Tom Dumoulin (NED/SUN) 16

4. Bauke Mollema (NED/TFS) 38

5. Julian Alaphilippe (FRA/QST) 53

World records for Mohammed, WhiteDT News NetworkManama

E Kanoo Racing set a pair of new World Records to headline on

an exciting fourth and penultimate round of the 2016/2017 Bahrain Drag Racing Championship-Arabian Pro Series, held over the weekend at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir.

Bahraini superstar Khaled Mohammed registered a new world’s best in the Super Street V8 category, while American drag racing icon Gary White matched his teammate’s accomplishment with his own in the Outlaw 6-Cylinder class as both drivers set their new World Records en route to claiming fantastic victories in their respective categories.

Another driver who excelled in

the competition was the legendary Steve Jackson of Bahrain1Racing. Popularly known as “Stevie Fast”, Jackson clinched his own fine triumph – second in a row and third of the season – in the highly competitive Pro Mod class.

This round attracted scores of drag racers from around the world as they battled for points, pride and bragging rights along

BIC’s world-class quarter-mile drag strip, which is a member of the National Hot Rod Association Worldwide Network.

Also taking place over the weekend was two nights of exhibition runs by the UK-based Jet Funny Car. It was a spectacular show on the strip, and the Jet Funny Car will be returning for a similar performance this coming

weekend in the season’s fifth and final run.

In the Super Street V8 category, Mohammed (3.984 seconds) in the final beat Kuwaiti Abdulla Al Shati at a speed of 322.58kph. While setting a new World Record, it was also the first-ever time for a car in this category to dip into the three second-mark, while Al Shati (4.272) at 275.45kph had to settled for second place.

Meanwhile, White (6.494) at 355.49 enjoyed his own record-breaking success in E Kanoo Racing’s stock chassis GT86 in the Outlaw 6-Cylinder class and was done on a 29.5/10.5 tyre with no wheelie bar.

White defeated a valiant Yousif Al Zayani (7.039) who finished second in the class at 324.53kph.

Hazeem, Aaidi lead three games in bowling

Tour win

1. Ahmed Hazeem (Production)/Abdullah Al Aaidi (Tatweer)(1,056 pins)2. Waleed Othman (ITD)/Abdul Latif Mohammed (Marketing)(1,047)3. Ali Al Helo/Abdul Aziz Bu Falah (Human Resources) (1,009)4. Ahmad Janahi ( P r o d u c t i o n ) / E b r a h i m Abdulla (Gas Team) (1,003)5. Talal Yousif/Ahmed Abdulla (Retirees), (1003)

Standings:

(L-R) Ilnur Zakarin (Team Katusha Alpecin) and Rui Costa (UAE Abu Dhabi) and Tom Dumoulin (Team Sunweb) celebrate on stage

Action from the race

Participants during a photo call

Miami

Top-seeded Canadian Milos Raonic held off Juan

Martin del Potro 6-3, 7-6 (8/6) on Saturday to book a title clash with Jack Sock at the ATP Delray Beach Open.

Despite some shaky moments, Raonic fought off a set point in the second-set tiebreaker and closed out the match with his 17th ace of the night to advance to the meeting with Sock, a 6-4, 7-6 (7/2) winner over fellow American Donald Young.

“You know it’s going to be close, so it’s about keeping disciplined and a positive attitude on the court,” Raonic said.

World number four Raonic, forced out of the Davis Cup this month with a thigh injury he suffered during the Australian Open, broke del Potro in the 11th game of the

second set to serve for the

match.But the big-serving 26-year-

old was broken back, firing a forehand wide to give del Potro a break point which the 2009 US Open winner converted with a backhand winner.

Raonic was close again with a 5-4 lead in the tiebreaker and two service points to come.

But he double-faulted and sent a forehand wide to give del Potro a set point. (AFP)

SPORTSMonday, February 27, 201722

Marseille

Jo-Wilfried Tsonga won his ninth match in a row and

celebrated his third Open 13 Marseille title yesterday with a 6-4, 6-4 win against countryman Lucas Pouille. The 31-year-old Tsonga outplayed his younger compatriot, breaking the 23 year old twice to cruise in 69 minutes.

The title gives Tsonga 14 for his career and his second for 2017. He won the ABN Amro

World Tennis Tournament in Rotterdam a week ago by defeating then-World No. 11 David Goffin. The win also caps one of Tsonga’s best months in recent memory. Before Rotterdam, he reached the Open Sud de France semi-finals before falling to Alexander Zverev, who eventually won the ATP World Tour 250 title.

With the Marseille title, Tsonga also improves to 17-3 on the season. He claimed

the Open 13 Marseille title in 2009 and 2013 as well.

Pouille was going for his second ATP World Tour crown after winning his maiden title at the Moselle Open in Metz last September. But he struggled at times with his serve, landing about 60 per cent of his first-serve offerings. He was broken to start the match and again at 3-3 in the second set.

Pouille couldn’t touch Tsonga’s serve, either. Tsonga

won 87 per cent of his service points (40/46), dominating games with a 1-2 punch of serve and forehand. He never faced a break point.

Tsonga will receive 250 Emirates ATP Rankings Points and should climb four spots to return to the Top 10 at No. 7 on Monday. He’ll also receive €110,655 in prize money. (atpworldtour.com)

clinches Marseille title

Tsong

a Raonic books title clash with Sock

Results:Semi-finals

Milos Raonic (CAN x1) bt Juan

Martin Del Potro (ARG x7) 6-3, 7-6

(8/6)

Jack Sock (USA x3) bt Donald Young

(USA) 6-4, 7-6 (7/2)

Johannesburg

South African Darren Fichardt birdied the last hole yesterday for a

final-round 68 and a one-stroke victory in the rain-affected Joburg Open.

The European Tour event was reduced from 72 holes to 54 after the first three days of the championship were interrupted by torrential rain.

Fichardt not only topped the Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club leaderboard, he also claimed one of three 2017 British Open places up for grabs.

The other two invitations to the major at Royal Birkdale were taken by Joburg Open runners-up Paul Waring

of England and Stuart Manley of Wales.Fichardt shot rounds of 66, 66 and

68 for a 15-under total of 200 over a course that resembled marshland in

places after downpours from Thursday to Saturday.

Waring closed with a 69 and Manley with a 67 for totals of 201 as they both sought a first European Tour triumph.

It was the fifth European Tour success for 41-year-old Fichardt, and his first since lifting the Africa Open trophy

four years ago.“This was a tough final round for

me,” said the South African who changed his putter and putting grip this

week after months of frustration on the greens.

“I could not hole a putt to save my life in recent weeks,” he added after receiving the trophy from the mayor of Johannesburg.

“My old putter had suffered a lot and needed a holiday,” joked the champion. “I gave it to my son and have not seen it since.

“I did not putt very well today and was outdriven at every hole by my two playing partners, but I stuck in there.” (AFP)

Fichardt bags Joburg OpenScores:

200 - Darren Fichardt 66-66-68

201 - Stuart Manley (WAL) 67-67-67, Paul Waring (ENG)65-67-69

202 - Jacques Kruyswijk 63-70-69, James Morrison (ENG)68-68-66,

Brandon Stone 70-65-67

203 - George Coetzee 66-72-65, Keenan Davidse 67-68-68, Paul

Peterson (USA) 62-72-69, Aaron Rai (ENG) 65-69-69

204 - Louis de Jager 70-67-67, Romain Langasque (FRA) 65-71-68,

Jaco Prinsloo 67-70-67, Sebastian Soderberg (SWE) 66-70-68

France’s Jo-Wilfried Tsonga celebrates with his trophy

Jack Sock

Milos Raonic

Darren Fichardt

Manila

Philippine b o x i n g

hero Manny P a c q u i a o and British fighter Amir

Khan confirmed separately yesterday that they would

face each other on April 23 after weeks of

conflicting reports.Pacquiao tweeted:

“Negotiations between team Pacquiao and team Khan have come to terms for the April 23 bout as this is what the fans wanted.#PacquiaoKhan”.

Khan, 30, a few minutes later posted on his official Twitter feed: “My team and

I have agreed terms with Manny Pacquiao and

his team for a super fight #pacquiaokhan #April23rd”.

Neither of them gave a venue for the match but

a source in P a c q u i a o ’ s

office said the bout w o u l d

be in

the United Arab Emirates.

Pacquiao, 38, p r e v i o u s l y confirmed on Twitter that he was “in negotiations” to face Khan despite Arum’s

o w n efforts to arrange a fight with Australian Jeff Horn in April.

He also posted a poll on his official Twitter feed asking his 110,000-plus followers to choose either Horn, Khan, American Terence Crawford or Briton Kell Brook as his next opponent.

Khan had been leading the poll when it was taken down. (AFP)

London

Harry Kane hit a first-half hat-trick as Tottenham stormed up to second

in the Premier League with a 4-0 home demolition of Stoke yesterday.

Kane’s treble took his tally to 17 league goals this season, while his first of the day at White Hart Lane was his 100th club goal.

The England forward, 23, who also scored three against Fulham in the FA Cup a week ago, capped an outstanding all-round display by setting up Dele Alli for the fourth.

That helped Alli to draw a line under his dismissal against Gent that contributed to Spurs’ Europa League exit on Thursday.

Tottenham’s victory took them above Manchester City and closed the gap on runaway leaders Chelsea to 10 points.

“It’s true t h a t today Kane w a s f a n t a s t i c , a hat-trick and a fantastic performance. He’s one of the best strikers in Europe and I’m very pleased for him because he deserves it,” Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

The damaging failure to beat Gent marked the latest disappointment for Spurs in a frustrating month that also saw their title challenge fade significantly.

The challenge confronting Pochettino’s side was to produce a performance and result that would help put the midweek embarrassment behind them.

It quickly became clear this game would provide the ideal platform for Spurs and

Alli to redeem themselves after a testing 72 hours of soul-searching.

Within three minutes Christian Eriksen had flashed a shot across the face of goal, provoking an

angry reaction from Pochettino, who was infuriated at the Dane’s

failure to pick out a better-placed team-mate.

The manager need not have worried. Stoke could barely

manage to rouse themselves and after Joe Allen hit the side netting for the visitors, Kane produced the 14th-minute opening goal that put the

home side firmly in control.

The chance came when Stoke’s Ryan Shawcross failed to clear Eriksen’s threaded pass, but Kane’s finish

was ruthless, with the striker latching onto the loose ball and

producing a first-time shot that flew across keeper Lee Grant.

The technique K a n e demonstrated in claiming his second in the 32nd minute was even better.

Eriksen’s right-wing corner was played out to Kane, who had positioned himself on the edge of the area, where he hit the bouncing ball on the full, left-footed, inside Grant’s right-hand post. (AFP)

Madrid

Lionel Messi struck the winner four minutes from time as Barcelona

moved top of La Liga yesterday with a crucial 2-1 win at Atletico Madrid.

All the goals came in the final half hour as Rafinha put Barcelona in front before Diego Godin’s header quickly restored parity.

However, so often the thorn in Atletico’s side, Messi registered his 27th career goal against Los Rojiblancos to ease the pressure on under fire Barca coach Luis Enrique.

Barcelona now lead Real Madrid and Sevilla by two points. Real Madrid, though, have two games in hand on their title rivals, the first of which comes later at Villarreal.

Defeat leaves fourth-placed Atletico just one point clear of Real Sociedad in the battle for the final Champions League slot.

Following their Champions League thrashing at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain and struggles at home to Leganes last weekend, Luis Enrique switched from the Catalans habitual 4-3-3 to a 3-4-3 with Messi forced into an advanced midfield role.

However, the change in tactics did little to stem Barca’s slump in form early

on as Atletico dominated the opening half hour. Yannick Carrasco and Godin blasted wildly off target when well placed inside the area early on.

Antoine Griezmann then saw a goalbound effort blocked by French international teammate Samuel Umtiti.

Atletico’s best effort of the opening half came from long range, though, as Griezmann’s driven effort on his weaker right foot forced a brilliant flying save from Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Barcelona thought they had gone in front against the run of play on the half hour mark when Luis Suarez headed in from close range after a goalmouth scramble.

However, the Uruguayan was penalised for a handball after Jan Oblak had parried Messi’s initial effort.

Oblak was making his first appearance since December 12, but the Slovenian showed no signs of rustiness to once again prove his credentials as one of the finest ‘keepers in the world.

Firstly, Oblak produced a sensational stop to tip Messi’s dipping free-kick over and then clutched Gerard Pique’s header from point-blank range.

Both sides passed up huge chances at

the start of the second-half.Firstly, Suarez screwed his shot

horribly wide after being played in by Messi.

Then at the other end, Ter Stegen made another excellent stop to deny Griezmann.

The deadlock was eventually broken in scrappy fashion on 63 minutes as Rafinha profited from a loose ball inside the area to fire low into the far corner. (AFP)

Monday, February 27, 2017 23SPORTSEspanyol 3 Osasuna 0

Atletico Madrid 1 Barcelona 2

Athletic Bilbao 3 Granada 1

Sporting Gijon 1 Celta Vigo 1

Villarreal 2 Real Madrid 3

Saint-Etienne 0 Caen 1

Lyon 5 Metz 0

Marseille 0 Paris Saint Germain 3

FC Ingolstadt 0 Borussia Moenchengladbach 2

Schalke 04 1 Hoffenheim 1

Palermo 1 Sampdoria 1

Chievo 2 Pescara 0

Crotone 1 Cagliari 2

Genoa 1 Bologna 1

Lazio 1 Udinese 0

Sassuolo 0 AC Milan 1

Inter Milan 1 Roma 2

Spanish La Liga results Messi hauntsAtletico once more

Kane treble crushes Stoke

Pacquiao to fight Khan in

April

Lionel Messi

Amir Khan

Harry Kane

Scores at the time of closing

Scores at the time of closing

Man United lift EFL Cup

London

Zlatan Ibrahimovic sealed the first major silverware

of Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United reign and broke Southampton’s

hearts as the Swedish star’s late goal clinched

a dramatic 3-2 victory in yesterday’s League

Cup final.I b r a h i m o v i c

was one of M o u r i n h o ’ s

m a r q u e e signings in

the close-s e a s o n and he

repaid h i s

manager’s faith with a typically dominant display on the big occasion at Wembley.

The 35-year-old opened the scoring with a blistering free-kick before Jesse Lingard doubled United’s lead.

Manolo Gabbiadini sparked a thrilling Southampton fightback, scoring just before half-time and again early in the second half.

But Ibrahimovic had the last word as his 87th minute header -- his 26th goal of the campaign -- ensured Mourinho joined United legend Alex Ferguson and Nottingham Forest great Brian Clough as the only managers to win the League Cup four times.

Mourinho is the first United manager to win a top prize in his maiden season at Old Trafford, a feat not even Ferguson or Matt Busby achieved.

It was also the 54-year-old’s 19th major trophy of his glittering career.

With United trailing well behind Premier League leaders Chelsea,

M o u r i n h o

needed this success to guarantee players, fans and the club’s hierarchy remain in his corner.

But the serial winner will hope the victory acts as a catalyst to claim bigger prizes in the near future, just as it did when the League Cup was the first silverware of his maiden spell with Chelsea.

It is 41 years since Southampton shocked United in the FA Cup final to lift the only major trophy in the club’s history and Claude Puel’s team deserve credit for an enterprising display that took them agonisingly close to another huge upset.

In the absence of injured playmaker Henrikh Mkhitaryan and with Wayne Rooney again on the bench, the stage was set for Ibrahimovic to cement his status as United’s talisman and he wasted little time stamping his authority on his first showpiece occasion in England.

Demanding the ball right from the start, Ibrahimovic’s astute pass set up France midfielder Paul Pogba for a fierce long-range effort that

stung the palms of Saints goalkeeper Fraser

Forster.

Knockout blow Southampton responded with

a dangerous raid that should have brought the opening goal in the 11th minute when Cedric Soares crossed low into the six yard box and Gabbiadini side-footed past David de Gea., only to see his celebrations curtailed by a dubious offside decision.

Emboldened by that lucky escape, United swept forward and in the 19th minute Oriol Romeu made a costly error when he try to halt another attack with a crude lunge on Ander Herrera. Romeu was booked but there was worse punishment to come from the free-kick as Ibrahimovic stepped up to smash his dipping shot over the Southampton wall.

Despite their lead, United still looked alarmingly casual and De Gea was forced to save from James Ward-Prowse and Dusan Tadic.

But Southampton were even more negligent at the back and Mourinho’s men made them pay again in the 38th minute. Marcos Rojo was given room to pick out Lingard inside the penalty area and the United forward couldn’t believe this luck as the statuesque Saints’ defence allowed him to guide a low finish past Forster. (AFP)

SPORTS

Hon.Chairman Najeb Yacob Alhamer | Responsible Editor Mahmood AI Mahmood | Managing Editor Soman Baby | Managing Director P. Unnikrishnan | Adviser Med JonesAdvt : Strategic Publicity & Advertising Co.W.L.L | Tel: 17270710, Fax17256470, Email: [email protected] | Newsroom: Tel: 17579911, Fax17250150, Email: [email protected]

Printed and published by Al Ayam Publishing | Subscription & circulation: Tel: 38444698/17579877/Fax17250150, Email:[email protected] | Website: www.dt.bh


P23 Messi haunts Atletico once more

Manchester United’s players celebrate with the trophy on the pitch after their victory

Ibrah double downs Saints

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Muhannad Mansour/DTNN [email protected] · 2017-02-26 · east bank. A week into a major push on...

Documents

Transcript of Muhannad Mansour/DTNN [email protected] · 2017-02-26 · east bank. A week into a major push on...